Back To The 80s: President's Doted Wife Chapter 1602 - 1603: Everyone Is Changing

With the destruction of the archives, the matter concerning Gao Linbing was effectively concluded. The authentic identity of Gao Linbing was a closely guarded secret within the military, bound by stringent rules of silence and information suppression, leading to a collective, unspoken agreement to dismiss the individual from memory. Whether private discussions occurred remained unknown.

Qi Taiguo, after navigating through this ordeal, chose to set aside further contemplation, despite Cheng Su's efforts to console him. He resumed his usual training regimen and performed his duties as before.

However, close observers detected a noticeable shift in Qi Taiguo. The former Qi Taiguo, while quiet and composed, possessed an inherently bright disposition.

Now, a distinct coldness permeated his demeanor, rendering him less approachable than before; instead, he appeared stern and tranquil, as if encased in an invisible barrier, both for self-protection and to maintain distance from others.

Consequently, Qi Taiguo's military presence became even more imposing than before. The palpable aura of blood and steel compelled others to instinctively retreat. In the past, his talents in both academics and martial arts were admired, but now, people tended to avoid him.

Cheng Su, being intimately familiar with him, couldn't help but acknowledge Qi Taiguo's transformation, though she felt powerless to alter it. She could only surmise that the incident involving Gao Linbing had indeed left a significant impact on him.

That night, their intimacy surpassed that of previous occasions, leaving Cheng Su with a subtle ache in her waist as she breathed softly.

What kind of suppressed frustration had this man been holding within?

Nestled in Qi Taiguo’s embrace, she posed a question, "Do you know?"

"Hmm?"

"People outside are now referring to you as the Cold-faced Shura," Cheng Su remarked playfully.

Qi Taiguo turned his head and offered a smile, "What, did I frighten you?"

Cheng Su playfully rolled her eyes, retorting, "Do you truly believe I would be afraid?"

Qi Taiguo drew her closer, planting a kiss on her forehead, and stated, "As long as you are not afraid, everything is fine." He then added after a brief pause, "You have no cause for fear; I would never harm you or our son."

"Mm, regardless of how you conduct yourself outside, you can finally relax when you return home. There's no need to maintain that shield and mask; it must be exhausting," Cheng Su advised.

"Okay."

Only then did Cheng Su continue, "By the way, have you heard that Gao Hongbo has died?"

"Who?" Qi Taiguo was initially taken aback before recalling, "Gao Hongbo, Secretary Gao? He passed away?"

Cheng Su nodded, relaying the information that Ning Ge had shared earlier, stating, "Ning Ge suspects Chiang Qing was responsible for his death."

Qi Taiguo let out a sneer, "She has certainly become quite capable."

The mention of Chiang Qing brought to his mind their initial encounter. Back then, she too was an embodiment of proud beauty. Yet, within the span of a few short years, how could she have undergone such a profound change?

Time and fate conspire to manipulate individuals. She is changing, he is changing, everyone is in a state of flux, their trajectories shifting inexorably, beyond any possibility of restraint.

"What are you contemplating?" Cheng Su nudged him gently.

Qi Taiguo responded, "I was merely reflecting on how fate delights in toying with people. For beings like us, mortals, none can escape its intricate manipulations."

Cheng Su let out a soft chuckle, remarking, "Your sudden immersion in profound thought is indeed a novel experience."

Yet, deep within her heart, a pang of sympathy stirred. Growth often arises from hardship, and Qi Taiguo was undeniably undergoing such a process.

"Did Ning Ge mention Chiang Qing's current whereabouts?" Qi Taiguo inquired.

"That remains unclear. He implied that she now has someone powerful backing her," Cheng Su mused unexpectedly, adding, "For both the Loo Family and Chiang's family to suffer downfall, and for her to secure new support – that is quite remarkable."

Qi Taiguo asserted, "That is to be expected. Setting aside Jiang Conghe, the patriarch of the Loo Family has been engaged in schemes for years; it's plausible he had contingency plans ready." Isn't the current situation a testament to that?

"Precisely why, within prominent families, possessing multiple backup strategies is essential. One must always maintain a contingency, for even the most vibrant bloom eventually fades."

Qi Taiguo wholeheartedly concurred. He recognized the necessity of discussing matters with Ning Ge as well.