Rebirth: Splendid Marriage in the 80s Chapter 2395 - 2331: Your Lousy Painting

She truly delved into a complete investigation of her.

Without a doubt, he had uncovered every aspect of her life, from her birth right up to the current moment, with painstaking precision.

A wave of unease hit Chiang Xiao, leaving her uncertain about the number of factions that had been probing her background. She had always seen herself as a regular individual, with no reason for anyone to dig into her affairs, yet it now appeared that hordes of people were covertly keeping tabs on her.

This individual might have first stepped in due to Tyrant Meng, but it was evident that he was now focusing squarely on her.

Chiang Xiao sensed that this man's fascination with her far surpassed whatever interest he held in Tyrant Meng.

Regarding Tyrant Meng, his aim seemed geared toward total removal, whereas with her, it was all about scrutiny, showing no signs of lethal intent up to this point.

Still, who could predict the outcome if he actually uncovered something significant?

Hu Xiangyong continued to observe Chiang Xiao closely.

Up until now, nothing in her behavior raised alarms; all her responses appeared perfectly logical.

In particular, upon learning that he had reached out to her over "Welcoming Pine," a flicker of astonishment mixed with subtle pride lit up her gaze.

It resembled the satisfaction of discovering that one of her cherished creations had gained recognition.

This reaction felt entirely typical.

A momentary hesitation gripped his thoughts.

Was it possible that this young woman truly harbored no secrets?

Yet, his instincts kept whispering the opposite.

Unless she possessed exceptional skills in deception and facade.

In that scenario, he found himself eager to engage further, curious to discover just how long she could sustain the pretense.

"I think so too, hehe." Chiang Xiao placed a hand over her mouth, chuckling as she addressed Liu Guoying: "Uncle Lee mentioned the same to me, claiming that my artwork brought them good luck."

The moment her words ended, Liu Guoying's expression soured, and he snapped at her: "What nonsense! Who do you imagine yourself to be? Could your foolish artwork truly bring prosperity? Don't you possess any common sense? If word of this gets out, do you believe it'll end well? Every merchant would flock to you demanding a piece, and can you promise each one will lead to riches? If not, aren't you worried about drawing ill will?"

He offered Chiang Xiao no quarter, delivering his harsh words with icy detachment until she bowed her head in quiet submission.

Seeing her in that state stirred a touch of pity in even Ji Yuzhi, who couldn't bear to watch.

After all, Chiang Xiao was a renowned artist; did she really deserve such a dressing-down from her mentor?

She interjected swiftly, "Teacher Liu, perhaps Chiang Xiao was simply thrilled for Uncle Lee, and moreover..."

"What thrill is there in that?" Liu Guoying pressed on with his critique: "The fellow poured sweat, resources, and ingenuity into building his enterprise. Yet here she is, claiming the glory for his success—what audacity!"

"Teacher, I realize my mistake, okay," Chiang Xiao murmured dejectedly.

"Enough, Teacher Liu; Chiang Xiao merely let it slip in the moment, and regardless, her talent in painting remains beyond question." The principal hurried to smooth things over.

This bluntness was simply Liu Guoying's characteristic way.

To be frank, even among strangers, he showed no leniency toward Chiang Xiao.

He sensed a twinge of discomfort.

Hu Xiangyong stayed quiet, his face impassive, merely observing the exchange between Liu Guoying and Chiang Xiao.

Chiang Xiao took the initiative to speak to him: "Mr. Hu, if you'd like me to create a painting, that's feasible, but I can't promise that displaying my work in your establishment will boost your fortunes."

"Naturally," Hu Xiangyong responded, "It's unreasonable to expect Xiao Chiang to produce some enchanted artwork. That said..."

He halted briefly, offering Chiang Xiao a warm smile.