126 Brother Supports You (Eighth Update)
The setting sun hung low, casting a radiant orange glow, while the gentle breeze carried a faint warmth—the oppressive heat of summer was approaching.
At that moment, outside the Mu family residence,
Mu Zongxing stood at the foot of the steps, gazing at Mu Qingcheng’s youthful face, radiant with the bloom of adolescence, a faint smile playing on his lips.
This sister, whom he had not seen for so long, seemed to bring him a new “surprise” every time they met.
Over the past years, he had countless times glimpsed her youthful image on Mu Jingchi’s phone.
Like a small sapling, braving the wind, growing up all on her own.
He had also once accompanied Mu Jingchi to that run-down old apartment block, and in the car, he had seen her timidly accept the snacks and clothes Mu Jingchi brought her.
Naturally, he had also noticed the coldness and resistance that flickered across Mu Qingcheng’s face as Mu Jingchi turned to leave.
That was not the expression of a child in her teens.
It was filled with resentment, inner turmoil, and a trace of heartache desperately concealed.
From that moment, he knew this sister of his was... extraordinary.
Mu Zongxing had even sent people to investigate, but every time they reached a crucial point, all information about Mu Qingcheng abruptly vanished.
It was as if someone was blocking the way, leaving no clues to continue the search.
Whether regarding her studies or her daily life, it was all unremarkable, even somewhat dull.
Like a blank sheet of paper, astonishingly pure.
He knew that Mu Qingcheng lived on a scholarship from school.
Therefore, she had never accepted any help from the Mu family.
Mu Jingchi only thought she was shy and reserved, which made him feel even more protective.
But Mu Zongxing understood that this girl harbored hatred toward the Mu family and naturally refused their aid.
She just hid it very well, so no one noticed.
At that moment, Mu Zongxing reached out to gently tousle Mu Qingcheng’s hair, his voice carrying all the warmth befitting an elder brother.
“Qingcheng, Grandpa feels guilty toward his children. He’s getting old, and these kinds of things... will probably happen more often.”
“Mm, I understand.”
Mu Qingcheng nodded obediently, her expression calm.
Mu Zongxing stepped closer, locking eyes with her, and spoke softly,
“As soon as I finish handling my work, I’ll bring the company back.
You finally came back to the Mu family; I won’t let you suffer any grievances.
Just wait a little longer, alright?”
“Brother...”
Mu Qingcheng looked at this elder brother she had hardly met before, disbelief mingling with the tender words he spoke to comfort her, stirring a complex torrent of emotions within her.
Mu Zongxing smiled gently and warmly, as if he understood what she was thinking, and continued,
“You’re my precious little sister; it’s only natural for me to care for you.
No matter what your plans are, I’ll support you.”
“...Thank you, Brother.”
She had intended not to cry, but in that moment, she could no longer hold back, and two tears slipped silently down her cheeks.
The sight caused Mu Jingchi, standing by another car, to furrow his brow sharply.
He strode over briskly and, like a protective guardian, wrapped Mu Qingcheng into his arms.
Looking at Mu Zongxing beside him, he said with a hint of disdain,
“Brother, what did you say to Qingcheng? Why did you make her cry?”
The intermittent sobs from within his embrace tore painfully at Mu Jingchi’s heart.
He bent down, flustered, wiping her tears away,
“Qingcheng, Qingcheng, don’t cry. When you cry like this... Third Brother... Third Brother has never even comforted a girl before, ah, you’re...”
Mu Zongxing smiled faintly, pulling a handkerchief from his pocket and handing it over as he said,
“Qingcheng, don’t cry. Look how scared you’ve got your Third Brother—acting like you’re about to get married.”
“Brother!”
“Brother!”
Their voices rang out in unison, yet the next moment burst forth with joyous laughter.