Rebirth: Splendid Marriage in the 80s Chapter 2613: 2549: Sharp as a Dog's Nose

Furthermore, Chiang Xiao had previously sketched this individual for them. Her drawing talent was outstanding, with portraits so lifelike they resembled photos, letting Ding Haijing identify Hu Xiangyong instantly.

“Excuse me, is this the Chiang Family residence? My surname is Hu, I have some matters to discuss with Xiao Chiang.”

Hu Xiangyong held a compact suitcase, seeming exceedingly polite.

“Surname Hu? Hu what?”

“Hu Xiangyong, the Xiang of aspiration, the Yong of mediocrity.”

Even when questioned so directly, Hu Xiangyong stayed calm and courteous in his reply.

Aspiration and mediocrity?

Ding Haijing himself thought this name carried a hint of sarcasm.

If it wasn't his birth name, it made sense. But if it truly was, it sounded ridiculous. Did this man show any sign of mediocrity or low aspirations?

“Stay put, I'll check with her if she knows you. Can't let just anyone inside.”

Ding Haijing shut the door firmly as he said this, then hurried into the living room.

“Xiao Chiang, should we turn him away?”

“No, invite him inside.” Chiang Xiao furrowed her brow. She was eager to learn Hu Xiangyong's intentions. Plus, since he'd located the house, rejecting him now wouldn't stop him from returning later.

Avoiding him would only arouse suspicion.

For the moment, acting normal and treating him as an ordinary visitor was best.

Ding Haijing agreed with a nod and returned to open the door.

“Apologies, I don't recognize you, so I was rude earlier. Xiao Chiang is in; please enter.” With the door open once more, Ding Haijing smiled apologetically at Hu Xiangyong.

“No problem. And who might you be?” Hu Xiangyong inquired while stepping inside.

“I handle chores for Xiao Chiang. She's my boss.”

“You seem full of vigor; practiced martial arts?” Hu Xiangyong grinned.

Ding Haijing nodded, “Picked up some, and I'm pretty capable.”

He realized claiming no martial arts training would fool no one; Hu Xiangyong would see right through it.

Novices might miss it, but long-time practitioners could easily tell trained from untrained.

Firm footing, powerful strides, erect posture—these came from prolonged training.

Thus, Ding Haijing modestly claimed decent skills.

Exactly how decent was for Hu Xiangyong to guess. Much like how Ding Haijing had detected Hu Xiangyong's threat from afar, the visitor would sense him too.

Luckily, Hu Xiangyong appeared solo; Ding Haijing sensed no other presences nearby.

Standing by the living room entrance, Chiang Xiao watched Hu Xiangyong approach and remarked, “Mr. Hu, what an uncommon guest—what brings you?”

Hu Xiangyong chuckled helplessly, “Mr. Hu had no option; Miss Chiang is tough to reach, so a personal visit was necessary.”

“Hard to invite?” Chiang Xiao shot back, “Really? Has Mr. Hu even extended an invitation?”

“Mr. Hu spoke poorly; what Mr. Hu meant was asking Miss Chiang to draw.” Hu Xiangyong smiled at Chiang Xiao, “Might Mr. Hu enter?”

“Do come in, Mr. Hu,” Chiang Xiao moved aside graciously.

Hu Xiangyong stepped in, sat down, and gazed at the opposite-seated Chiang Xiao, commenting, “Miss Chiang, do you often wear perfume? Rose scent? Rare find domestically.”

Chiang Xiao's heart jolted.

This guy's nose was truly keen like a hound's.

He had immediately detected the rose aroma.