008 All Are Memories

At this moment, in the study.

The antique decor evoked a strong sense of the past. Exquisite, yet somewhat oppressive.

The man, with a stern expression, seemed utterly unconcerned with these surroundings. He sat upright behind a spacious desk, holding a fountain pen that carried its own aura of bygone days, his face revealing a hint of impatience and severity.

He appeared highly skilled at suppressing his emotions, wielding them with precision and control. Now, only a slight trace of displeasure flickered across his features, just enough to express his dissatisfaction.

Yet this was sufficient to send a clear warning to his subordinates.

At that moment,

In front of the desk,

Two men who looked almost identical stood side by side, heads bowed, reverent and anxious.

Even though their master betrayed no overt emotion, his sharp gaze sliced over them inch by inch.

Neither dared utter a word; even their breathing was tightly restrained.

After a moment, the man finally spoke, his voice low and commanding.

“What have you found?”

One of the men took a deep breath, lowered his head even further, and answered quickly,

“It’s still... the people from Wuhen.”

“Again, Wuhen?”

Upon hearing this, the man’s eyes instantly narrowed.

Yet, for reasons unknown, what flashed through his mind at that moment was the memory of being “forcefully kissed” that day.

He recalled that little one’s remarkable skills...

“Could it be her?”

His murmured speculation made the two men opposite him look up.

They exchanged glances, both showing clear confusion.

The one who had escorted the man home tentatively asked,

“Boss, you mean...?”

The man did not reply, but issued a direct order,

“Si Bei, take Si Nan and go accept your punishment.”

“...”

The two men stiffened simultaneously, but quickly acquiesced.

After all, Si Nan had acted to protect the target that day. The mission failed; punishment was deserved.

“There’s no need to trouble my brother. I’ll go myself. Sorry, Boss.”

“Mm.”

Si Nan bowed respectfully, then turned and left without another word.

At the doorway, he encountered the butler—a man whose hair showed streaks of gray, yet whose frame remained robust.

He was also their biological father.

“Dad...”

“Go on.”

“Understood.”

Si Nan nodded and headed straight for the backyard.

On this side,

After Si Nan departed, Si Bei moved to the man’s side.

The butler knocked twice, then entered, respectfully announcing,

“Sir, Mr. Zhai has arrived.”

“Let him in.”

“Yes.”

The butler nodded, gestured for the servants to bring in a pot of tea, then quietly withdrew.

Just as he was about to leave, he was suddenly called back,

“Uncle Si, you may rest today. There’s nothing else.”

“Thank you, sir.”

The butler smiled, gently closed the door behind him.

Although the young master was reserved, he had always been soft-hearted. Today’s arrangement was, in truth... to allow him to care for Si Nan, who would be unable to rise from bed after his punishment.

****

Meanwhile, at the Mu family residence,

Mu Qingcheng and Old Master Mu quietly shared a meal.

Few words were spoken, but she could see clearly that the old master was exceedingly fond of her.

Mu Qingcheng offered a gentle, well-mannered smile, but in truth, she felt nothing.

Even if the entire Mu family were handed over to her, it could not make up for the years her mother had endured hardship outside.

That foolish woman always claimed it didn’t matter, but Mu Qingcheng knew, and saw, with utmost clarity how her mother had spent countless nights, her face washed with tears.

...

At present,

After finally finishing the meal, Mu Qingcheng was led by Mu Jingchi—who was exceedingly attentive—to a room prepared just for her.

It was a room decorated in a dreamy fashion.

Everywhere, pink lace and exquisite embroidery.

It was undeniably girlish, but not quite to Mu Qingcheng’s taste.

“How do you like it, Fifth Sister?”

“Mm,”

Mu Qingcheng nodded softly, then stepped inside, curiously looking around.

Mu Jingchi watched his handiwork with pride, his gaze lingering on his well-behaved sister’s back, the smile never leaving his face.

Just then, a somewhat affected voice echoed from downstairs, pinched and sweet,

“Grandpa, I’ve come to see you~”