Back To The 80s: President's Doted Wife Chapter 1554 - 1555: If the Mountain Won’t Come to You, Go to the Mountain

Cheng Su guided Qi Fengping into the restaurant where a sign at the entrance proclaimed 'Qi Residence Full Moon Feast.' The meticulously arranged seating chart eliminated any guesswork for guests locating their designated spots.

Though Qi Fengping claimed she was there to assist, her primary motive was to observe Cheng Su in action. She recognized her sister-in-law possessed profound wisdom and believed that by accompanying her, she could learn a great deal.

Consequently, their task primarily involved a leisurely stroll to ensure the seating arrangements were indeed in order.

While Qi Fengping ambled aimlessly through the main hall, Cheng Su ventured into the kitchen to examine the pastry preparations.

Around five in the evening, Ning Ge made his appearance, looking travel-worn and disheveled.

As the guests had not yet arrived, Cheng Su seized the opportunity to converse with him. Noticing his dejected and weary demeanor, she couldn't help but inquire.

"What's happened to you? Have you just returned from the Capital?" Cheng Su ushered him into the office for a seat and posed the question.

Before Ning Ge could respond, Qiulan approached Cheng Su for a consultation regarding a dish for the evening's banquet. She explained that the pine nuts intended for the diced meat had been over-fried and inquired if cashews could serve as a substitute.

Cheng Su pondered for a moment, then consented, instructing Qiulan to proceed with the arrangement.

"It's been a while, Qiulan! You've become even more radiant than before!" Ning Ge playfully complimented Qiulan.

Now, facing Ning Ge, Qiulan regarded him with the deference one might show a superior. Smiling, she replied, "And you've certainly become more self-possessed!"

"I heard you're tying the knot this October?" Ning Ge inquired further.

Qiulan nodded, responding, "Indeed. I'll also be hosting a banquet at this very restaurant. Please do grace us with your presence for a few drinks if your schedule permits!" The youthful infatuation had long since faded; now, with marriage on the horizon, an invitation for celebration was extended.

Ning Ge responded with a laugh, "Consider it done. And even if I cannot attend personally, my gift will certainly arrive."

Qiulan smiled and nodded before turning to depart.

Cheng Su, who had observed the entire exchange, let out a sigh after Qiulan had gone. "Time truly flies, doesn't it? You might not be aware, but Qiulan harbored a fond liking for you back in the day!"

Ning Ge nearly spat out the tea he had just sipped, exclaiming in disbelief, "You don't say?!"

"Do I look like someone who invents such tales? You truly let a golden opportunity pass you by!" Cheng Su retorted with a smile.

Ning Ge offered an awkward chuckle, took another sip of tea, and remarked, "Perhaps I wasn't destined for such good fortune."

Sensing his jocular tone, Cheng Su shifted her gaze, observing his expression. "Your elder brother's recent promotion should be a cause for celebration. Why the long face? You seem rather downcast."

Ning Ge touched his own face and sighed deeply, murmuring, "Please, let's not dwell on it!"

Cheng Su arched an eyebrow.

Ning Ge remained largely silent, lost in his own brooding thoughts. Ever since that woman had financially ruined him and vanished without a trace, despite his every effort to find her, he felt as though he had suffered a colossal loss.

In fact, he *had* suffered a significant loss. Who else would engage in such intimacy and then shirk all responsibility like that incorrigible girl!

Ning Ge's grip tightened on his teacup, his teeth grinding in silent frustration.

"This teacup is exquisite blue and white porcelain; it's part of a set. Should you manage to break it, you won't find another to compensate me!" Cheng Su jested lightly.

It was only then that Ning Ge noticed how whitely his knuckles had clenched the cup. Releasing it sheepishly, he confessed, "Sometimes I truly struggle to comprehend what women are thinking."

"Oh, has the Fourth Young Master suddenly achieved enlightenment and intends to unravel the mystery of a woman's heart? What troubles you? Is it related to Miss Song?" Cheng Su inquired with a knowing smile.

Ning Ge faltered for a moment before replying, "No." He paused, then added, "It's not exactly trouble, I just can't fathom her thoughts."

"Cease worrying about the workings of women's minds. If you desire something, you must strive for it with greater effort," Cheng Su advised. "As the saying goes, 'If the mountain will not come to Muhammad, then Muhammad must go to the mountain.'"

Ning Ge paused, thoughtfully considering her words.