Stop Messing Around, Mr Bo! Chapter 2126 - Wen Yuan (20)

“But I don’t want to see you.”

Shang Qiqi held her breath tightly.

“I warned you earlier—if you choose to leave, never return. Where’s your courage?”

Shang Qiqi struggled to steady her feelings. “Yes, I’ve got courage. If you refuse to face me, why can’t I return? Ping Cheng isn’t named after you!”

Shang Qingmo’s icy expression grew even darker upon hearing her retort once more.

“But it carries Shang Qingmo’s name!”

Shang Qiqi balled her hands into fists, struggling to draw breath.

She fought hard to compose herself, yet the distance between them remained vast.

Those four years had been hers, shared with another.

She had strived to grow up and shine brightly.

Yet he had transformed as well.

Despite her every effort, the divide separating them only widened.

In that instant, a wave of defeat washed over her.

She believed she’d become a remarkable figure, staying true to her duties without fail.

She wouldn’t dwell on forbidden thoughts or let his deeds wound her.

Yet reality struck—she still ached from his sharp words.

She had supposedly moved on…

Then what purpose had her years away served?

The man before her now boasted sharper contours. The aloof, detached figure from years past was encased in razor-sharp frost, causing others to recoil. It felt as though nearing him invited effortless harm.

“So?”

Her lips slowly arched as she stared at him with unyielding resolve.

Stubbornness defined her. Her lips quivered faintly.

Shang Qingmo abruptly felt a stab in his heart. The chill and caution in his eyes cracked under her look.

The harsh words poised on his tongue turned even more cutting.

His fingers shook as he lifted his arm a bit, yearning to shatter the chains binding something deep inside and draw her close.

But realizing his impulse, he fisted his hands and withdrew his arm quietly.

Her lips parted, then pressed into a thin, taut line.

Yet how could Shang Qiqi miss the meaning behind what he nearly spat out?

Though unspoken in the end, his unspoken verdict pierced her deeply.

She shut her eyes while her tight fists slowly loosened.

“I get what you meant to say. Rest assured, I won’t stay here any longer.”

Shang Qingmo’s frame went rigid.

“I’ll pack up and leave. Still, adopted or not, I remain Grandpa’s granddaughter. I’ll return to see him for sure! Please don’t block me.”

“Consider this my plea.”

With a detached look, she spun away coldly. Grabbing the medicine bag from the coffee table, she dashed upstairs, refusing to linger a moment more with him.

Shang Qingmo remained frozen in place for ages until his toes twitched faintly. He glanced toward the deserted stairs, his throat working visibly.

A unfamiliar defeat surged through him suddenly.

The fury built over four years crumbled the moment he laid eyes on her again.

So what of all his steadfast endurance…

*

The following day, last night’s incident surfaced.

She knew the Old Master would lash out at Shang Qingmo once more.

She spared no thought for Shang Qingmo, yet she refused to upset the Old Master.

Still, Han Jichi happened to visit the Shang residence that day.

Summer vacation loomed for the school. Shang Qiqi got word to pick up her two-year-old certificate on campus.

Han Jichi arrived to drive her there.

The old man let her go without hesitation, of course.

Since her return, Shang Qiqi had kept the old man company. It was time to let the youngsters mingle more.

At school, Shang Qiqi recognized few fellow students.

Most had already graduated, seldom sticking around for further studies.

Shang Qiqi had clearly gained fame on campus.

Bold red banners on the school’s entrance screens hailed her return to her alma mater.

Noticing this, Han Jichi grinned. “Feeling smug?”

Shang Qiqi slapped her forehead. “How about swapping it for your name?”

Han Jichi appeared lost in the moment, his mouth quirking.

His reaction drew a soft laugh from Shang Qiqi.

She felt no pride, only sheer embarrassment.

Once she collected the certificate from the office, they discussed her future role.

The school honored Shang Qiqi generously, particularly with the pay.

Then, a school official proposed a campus tour. Shang Qiqi hesitated a touch, but upon being led to the auditorium for the host’s introduction, she could only smile wryly.

She’d been roped in to inspire the students.

In the midst of the resounding applause, she mustered her courage, stepped onto the stage, and delivered a brief speech. She described her study surroundings and daily experiences at the overseas school before stepping down.

Afterward, she didn't dare linger. Grabbing her certificate, she departed swiftly.

“What would you like for lunch?” They rendezvoused at the school's north gate. Since Han Jichi hadn't brought his car, Shang Qiqi instantly caught his implication. After pondering briefly, she replied, “Let's grab some barbecue first, then head to Fat Sister’s for rice noodles!”

Numerous snack vendors dotted the area around the university district. Their food boasted high quality at low prices, evoking fond memories with every bite.

Over the recent years, Shang Qingmo had imposed strict rules on her diet, forbidding treats from street stalls. Yet, that hadn't deterred her from occasionally deceiving him and slipping out with classmates for a feast.

With noon upon them, he surely wouldn't object now.

Han Jichi appeared to anticipate her choice, showing no hint of surprise.

Stuffed with rice noodles, tears welled up in Shang Qiqi's eyes.

Han Jichi steadied her arm with one hand, a mix of amusement and exasperation in his voice. “I've never witnessed anyone tearing up from overeating before.”

“That's because each sneaky outing left me terrified of missing the next meal. Little Uncle's rules are too harsh. This feels like my final chance...”

At the mention of Shang Qingmo by Shang Qiqi, Han Jichi paused for two seconds, then smiled and responded,

“Should you remain at school going forward, feel free to drop by for meals.”

Shang Qiqi pressed her lips together. “...Help me hunt for a place later.”

“What?”

“I'll lease an apartment close to campus. It'll make commuting to work much easier later on.”

Han Jichi came to a gradual halt. “Are you truly set on moving out to live independently?”

Last night's words from Shang Qingmo echoed in Shang Qiqi's thoughts. Inhaling deeply, she nodded. “Yes... I need to live on my own.”

“Fine, I'll handle it.”

Shang Qiqi gave a casual shrug. “Shopping first. I'm stuffed.”

*

En route home, Han Jichi got a phone call. His face grew peculiar as he took it. Post-call, Shang Qiqi overheard his apparent agreement to some proposal.

Afterward, Han Jichi eyed her uncertainly, then ventured, “There's a business banquet tomorrow. Would you... care to join me?”

Shang Qiqi hesitated. She grasped Han Jichi's intention fully.

Attending alongside Han Jichi would publicly affirm their romance.

This reception marked merely the start.

It served as both validation and proclamation.

Henceforth, their fates intertwined in Ping Cheng.

“When is it?”

The car glided in silence for ages before Shang Qiqi spoke softly.

Han Jichi whipped around, eyes wide with astonishment.

At last, he pulled over to the curb.

“Tomorrow at eight in the evening...” Drawing a deep breath, he pivoted toward her. “You certain? This implies...”

“I get it.”

Han Jichi gazed at her intently for seconds before drawing her close in a hug.

Words escaped him, yet Shang Qiqi comprehended it all.

Two years prior, she'd assured him that upon his return, he could chase any woman who caught his eye freely.

He dismissed the notion flatly and headed back home.

True enough, he'd endured a two-year wait for her.

From every angle, Han Jichi proved reliable and steadfast.

His lineage shone brightly, his looks captivated, and his character rang true with honesty.

No grounds existed for her to reject him.

Besides, they were already an item.

“I'll fetch you tomorrow. I'll arrange the gown too.”

“Sure.”

*

True to its title, the affair centered on commerce.

Ping Cheng's prominent firms received invitations.

Smaller and mid-tier businesses scrambled desperately for entry.

State entities joined to boost the city's overall GDP.

For those smaller outfits, partnering with giants—whether attaching, allying, or collaborating—yielded prime benefits.

7:15 P.M.

Han Jichi escorted Shang Qiqi to the venue.

Shang Qiqi donned a champagne gown, hair neatly swept up, accessorized with diamond pieces. Devoid of flashy opulence, the ensemble stayed understated and elegant, enhancing her pure, soft allure.

Back in Ping Cheng two years, Han Jichi built networks. Even strangers knew his name.

His arrival with Shang Qiqi at the event drew swarms of gazes.

Though not her debut at such gatherings years back, this marked Shang Qiqi's first solo cocktail party, leaving her unavoidably tense.

She'd tagged along before, always clinging to Shang Qingmo for cover.

She never fretted about others' opinions of her. Whether it was people trying to chat her up or those harboring doubts, he always stepped in to handle it. He effortlessly cleared away heaps of trouble for her.

Noticing Shang Qiqi's discomfort, Han Jichi gave her hand a light pat and said softly, “Don’t get too nervous. Just stay close to me.”

Shang Qiqi murmured a quiet assent.

A man was already heading toward Han Jichi. Han Jichi snatched two champagne glasses from a waiter and offered one to Shang Qiqi. He shifted his stance a little and murmured in her ear, “That’s Rui Xing’s general manager. CEO Wang—no need to fawn over him.”

Shang Qiqi angled her head slightly. Her eyelids lowered as her long lashes created shadows. She leaned in toward Han Jichi, listening closely to his words.

To everyone watching, their closeness looked utterly natural.

True enough, CEO Wang came to a stop right in front of them. After exchanging some polite greetings, CEO Wang glanced at Shang Qiqi and smiled at Han Jichi. “And who’s this?”

Han Jichi casually wrapped an arm around Shang Qiqi’s waist and replied nonchalantly, “My girlfriend, Shang Qiqi.”

Then he leaned down and said gently to Shang Qiqi, “Qiqi, greet CEO Wang.”

Shang Qiqi smiled and nodded toward CEO Wang. “Hello, CEO Wang.”

CEO Wang smiled back before asking hesitantly, “Shang?”

He turned toward Han Jichi, comprehension dawning. “Ah, from Hua Chen TV…”

Han Jichi smiled and added, “She’s the granddaughter of the Shang family.”

That was the Shang family!

Once Shang Qiqi’s background emerged, all the skepticism and queries in their minds vanished. A few people were already approaching.

Shang residence.

Her position in Ping Cheng City stood unchallenged.

Hua Chen TV reigned as the top television network nationwide, boasting immense clout. It had long become a vital icon of Ping Cheng.

The Shang family originated and flourished in Ping Cheng City, with profound roots and bottomless riches.

Connections to the Shang family were beyond anyone's wildest dreams.

Though it was common knowledge that she was merely the nominal granddaughter of the Shang family, no disdain would come her way.

Suddenly, a hushed stir erupted in the banquet hall.

Through the murmurs, Shang Qiqi picked up a name she knew well.

Following the crowd’s stares, she spotted a recognizable figure striding in with steady poise.

He stood tall and strikingly handsome.

“It’s CEO Hua Chen.”

“It’s Shang Qingmo.”

“What’s so shocking? I just saw the Bo couple…”

“And the pair from CP Entertainment…”

“And the Yin family…”

“Shang Qingmo’s on great terms with them. No wonder they showed up.”

Shang Qiqi grew intrigued by the buzz around her.

She was familiar with every name dropped, but beyond the Bo couple, what were these other pairs she’d never heard of?

Why hadn’t she spotted them?

She tore her eyes from Shang Qingmo and began surveying the whole banquet hall, searching for a known face.

After years apart, had they truly transformed that much?

She squirmed slightly in Han Jichi’s arms, drawing his immediate attention.

He pulled her in tighter, gazing down at her with a mix of helplessness and tenderness. “Who’re you looking for?”

Shang Qiqi lifted her gaze to his, closing the gap between them.

Right then, a slight dip of Han Jichi’s head would let him capture her lips.

Suddenly, his eyes locked onto her lips, glossed with lipstick.

Shang Qiqi flushed red and pulled back a step.

“I heard my old friend might be here too…”

“Huh?” Han Jichi lifted an eyebrow. “Who?”

“Probably Chi Yaoyao?”

“Chi family? You mean Young Madam Yin?”

Shang Qiqi’s eyes went wide with shock. “Young… Young Madam Yin?!!”

Han Jichi rarely witnessed her like this and couldn’t suppress a chuckle. “You’ve been gone too long. It’s understandable you wouldn’t know.”

“The Chi family’s cherished daughter is now married to the Yin Corporation’s young master. They registered last April. But with her pregnancy before the wedding, Miss Chi threw a fit about delivering the baby and getting back in shape first before the ceremony. Rumor has it she’s planning it now.”

Shang Qiqi swallowed hard. “Yin Ruijue and Yaoyao… How did they end up together?”

It was unimaginable.

“Qiqi!”

As Shang Qiqi reeled in shock and confusion, an exhilarated voice rang out from the staircase.

Everyone glanced up to see a lithe figure propped against the upstairs railing, waving enthusiastically at her.

“Sister Yaoyao…”

Moments later, Yin Ruijue showed up next to Chi Yaoyao. Then Xu Han, Lu Shaoqian, Bo Jinhang, Sang Yu, Bo Jinchuan, Shen Fanxing…

Exclamations echoed through the banquet hall below as everyone gazed upward at the striking assembly upstairs. The men and women possessed stunning appearances and commanding presences. Their immense wealth created an overwhelmingly shocking visual spectacle!

Shang Qiqi clapped a hand over her mouth in astonishment.

“Qiqi, come up quickly!” Chi Yaoyao called out once more. “Everyone is here today!”

Noticing her stunned look, Han Jichi lightly patted her shoulder. “What noble scum?”

Shang Qiqi snapped back to reality, her excitement impossible to contain. She had completely forgotten the peculiar sensation from laying eyes on Shang Qingmo.

Grabbing Han Jichi’s arm with glee, she exclaimed, “Let’s go up. I’ll introduce them to you!”

Han Jichi smiled. “So you’ll introduce me to them too?”

Shang Qiqi hesitated briefly before nodding. “Of course…”

Before she could complete her words, a powerful arm extended abruptly and yanked her from Han Jichi’s arms!

Shang Qiqi stumbled into a familiar embrace.

His solid chest struck her forehead.

Han Jichi’s smile disappeared as he fixed a cold stare on the man facing him.

This abrupt incident drew the attention of all present.

The intense standoff between the two men left onlookers utterly perplexed.

Regaining her wits, Shang Qiqi twisted and pushed to break free from Shang Qingmo.

Yet, regardless of her struggles, Shang Qingmo’s arm remained utterly still. No matter how she thrashed in his hold, she stayed firmly in place.

The two men locked gazes for a prolonged moment before Han Jichi spoke with a smile.

“Uncle Shang, what do you mean?”

The term “Uncle Shang” caused Shang Qingmo’s eyes to narrow. He responded calmly,

“Since you’re calling me Uncle Shang, I might as well remind you that you’re not qualified to go upstairs tonight.”

Han Jichi’s face turned dark in an instant.

No leeway for discussion existed.

Shang Qingmo was striking back with equal measure.

He had dubbed him “Uncle Shang” to mock his inexperience.

Or maybe to imply he wasn’t worthy of standing beside Qiqi.

At the least, he needed the strength to contend with him.

Still, it remained true that he was far less seasoned than him. It was equally true that he lacked his influence and stature.

He didn’t e