The CEO's Woman Chapter 5 Nocturne

Situated on the southern edge of the city, the Wang’s Mansion became an unavoidable sight as Jiang Yue found herself ensnared in the clutches of evening rush hour traffic.

A wave of nostalgia washed over Jiang Yue as she anticipated the reunion with her grandfather. In her previous existence, Grandfather Wang had showered her with affection, a stark contrast to her later life where her own poor decisions had unfortunately driven a wedge between them. The thought of his disappointment weighed heavily on her, prompting a wistful sigh. Her maternal family, however, had always been a source of unwavering support and adoration.

The Wang family stood as one of the four most esteemed lineages, not only within Xin City but across the entire nation. Though their history might not stretch as far back as the other three prominent families, their financial clout was undeniably on par. Their flagship enterprise, Wang’s iComms Tech International, boasted a formidable reputation both domestically and abroad. This technological behemoth, a true conglomerate, dedicated itself to pioneering innovations. What began as a modest venture had, over the course of three decades of relentless technological advancement, propelled iComms Tech International to the apex of industry success.

Her grandfather, Wang Guiren, served as the visionary founder and the current patriarch of the illustrious Wang family. He was blessed with twins: Wang Rou, Jiang Yue’s mother, and Wang Hou, her cherished uncle. Initially, Wang Guiren harbored reservations about Wang Rou’s union with the Jiang family, but he was ultimately compelled to honor a solemn promise made to his closest confidant, Jiang Chanming’s father, Jiang Linfang.

Following the tragic passing of Wang Rou, Jiang Yue unexpectedly became the sole female heir within the Wang family fold. This unique position led to her being doted upon by every member, including her only male cousin. A gentle smile graced Jiang Yue’s lips as fond recollections of her maternal family surfaced; she deeply missed them. This visit marked her first significant engagement with the Wangs since her profound rebirth.

Lost in a contemplative haze, Jiang Yue was abruptly pulled back to the present by the car’s gradual deceleration. Lifting her gaze, she beheld the magnificent Wang Mansion unfolding before her. This ancestral estate, sprawling across an impressive 19,000 square feet, exuded an aura of warmth and comfort that was palpable even from a distance. The exterior, adorned with striking lilac block stones and pressure-treated spruce, presented an image of refined elegance and considerable expense. Stepping inside, one would find the floors graced with cozy Bavarian oak, complemented by exquisitely designed wood ceilings and rich wenge walls.

With an irrepressible surge of excitement radiating from her features, she alighted from the vehicle and practically bounded towards the grand entrance.

“Good morning, Young Miss. Your grandfather awaits you in the Gallery,” a disembodied voice from an attendant faintly reached her ears as she enthusiastically made her way towards the second floor.

The Gallery, situated on the mansion's second level, housed an impressive collection of artworks—paintings and sculptures—that held deep significance for her grandfather. Among these treasures were several pieces created by Wang Rou, a testament to her mother’s exceptional artistic talent. Her mother's passions extended beyond painting; she was also a gifted singer and proficient instrumentalist, a fact that had inspired her grandfather to connect the gallery with a music room, complete with a grand piano.

Upon opening the door, Jiang Yue’s gaze fell upon an elderly gentleman standing pensively before a framed black-and-white photograph.

“Grandfather,” she softly called out. The old man turned, a wistful smile gracing his features as he met her gaze. Jiang Yue understood with certainty that her grandfather’s eyes were once again fixed upon a portrait of Wang Rou. Ever since her mother’s untimely demise, he had insisted on displaying a cherished black-and-white photograph of his daughter in her favorite space within the mansion: the Gallery.

“Grandfather, you shouldn’t stand for too long. Please take care of yourself. Let’s move to the music room where I can play a piece for you,” she urged, her voice laced with genuine sincerity. Jiang Yue was acutely aware of the profound void her mother’s absence had left in her grandfather’s heart.

Assisting her grandfather to a comfortable chair, she then took her place before the gleaming black piano. A profound silence settled over the room as her fingers began to dance across the keys, initiating the melody of Nocturne in E-flat Major, her mother’s most beloved composition. Soon, she was completely enveloped by the music's dramatic intensity, her eyes closing as she allowed cherished memories to wash over her.

In her past life, her relentless pursuit of her father's approval and affection had blinded her to the preciousness of peaceful, joyful moments like this one.

Her father’s disdain for her had begun when she was merely five years old. Her mother passed away when Jiang Yue was fifteen, and it was in the wake of this devastating loss that her pattern of regrettable choices commenced. At eighteen, she inexplicably chose to pursue acting, emulating Jiang Mian despite her deep-seated aversion to the craft. By nineteen, she had sacrificed her innocence to a director in a desperate attempt to secure a role intended for Jiang Mian. At twenty-one, she entered into marriage with the detestable Yu Chen, only to find herself divorced four years later at the age of twenty-four. Her life tragically concluded in a solitary car accident at twenty-five.

The music swelled, its powerful vibrations resonating through her very being. Her heart pounded a frantic rhythm against her ribs. Her fingers caressed the keys, emotions pouring forth with each note. Finally, she struck the concluding chord.

Her eyes fluttered open, a single tear tracing a slow path down her cheek. She turned her gaze towards her grandfather, who offered a smile of profound pride, his eyes shimmering with an abundance of affection.

"Clap-Clap-Clap" Her gaze was drawn to the individual applauding beside her grandfather. She recognized him as her mother's Uncle, Wang Hou.

"Wow! I had no idea anyone else could play that piece besides your mother, Little Yue," Wang Hou exclaimed.

She offered them a smile and slowly made her way towards her grandfather and her uncle.

"You bear an uncanny resemblance to your mother at your age. Come here and give your uncle a big hug," Wang Hou said cheekily, opening his arms wide.

"Cease that, old man, you're not a child. Come, Little Yue, give this handsome young cousin of yours a hug instead," another voice interjected. She then saw her cousin gracefully walk over and embrace her.

"How dare you label me an old man? Shall we discuss your engagement instead? What's your take on it, Wang Minghua?"

"Engagement? How about I inform grandfather about what you-" Wang Minghua's words were cut short as Wang Hou clamped a hand over his mouth.

"Perhaps we should let Little Yue enjoy some of her favorite cookies, the ones you specially baked for her son?" Wang Hou suggested, his gaze cold as it fixed upon the smiling young man.

Jiang Yue smiled, observing the father and son's playful dispute before her. Such a heartwarming scene was a rarity in her previous life.

"Enough of this foolishness! It's quite embarrassing and giving me a headache," her grandfather declared, shaking his head. He then rose and began to walk away. "Come, Little Yue, let us leave these two embarrassing individuals behind."

Jiang Yue couldn't help but let out a soft chuckle as she followed her grandfather. Her uncle and cousin, completely engrossed in their teenage-like banter, failed to even notice their departure.