C79

Lin Xuan commanded his men to stuff all the battered individuals into sacks, his voice icy as he warned, "I've spared your lives, but don't think you're off the hook. Once you're out, be mindful of what you say and what you keep to yourselves."

The beaten individuals frantically nodded in agreement.

"If you don't," Lin Xuan added sternly, "broken bones will be the least of your worries. Got it?"

"We understand, we understand..." they stammered, terrified beyond belief. They were fortunate just to be alive; defiance was the furthest thing from their minds.

Turning his attention to Soong Mingjiang and his wife, Lin Xuan instructed, "You've pocketed Sun Jianguo's money. Cough up every last dime. Clear?"

"Crystal clear," they replied hastily.

Lin Xuan then faced Qi Jiaguo's parents. "Your son's actions are shameful, and he's caused injury. You'll cover all medical and hospital expenses in full. Understood?"

"Mr. Lin, we'll send the money immediately. How much is needed?" they asked, their voices laced with panic.

"Just make sure it's satisfactory," Lin Xuan replied coolly. "Fall short, and I'll multiply the amount by a hundred. Understand?"

Struck by the gravity of his words, Qi Jiaguo's parents didn't dare to question further, silently calculating the hefty sum they owed.

With his orders set, Lin Xuan turned to Qin Hu, "Have your men toss them onto the trash heap."

"Consider it done," Qin Hu responded, then barked at his crew, "Get this trash out of here!"

His men scrambled, shoving the sorry lot into burlap sacks and dragging them away.

Boss Loong's crew didn't fare any better; they too were hauled off and given a thrashing by Qin Hu's men.

Sun Jianguo, bedridden, watched in astonishment. Lin Xuan wielded influence far beyond what he imagined, commanding the respect of even the notorious Master Hu.

Once everything was settled, Lin Xuan commended Qin Hu, "You've handled things well this time. I won't forget it. You've got potential, and I see even greater opportunities for you ahead."

Qin Hu was overjoyed, quickly bowing at a ninety-degree angle to Lin Xuan, "Mr. Lin, serving you is an immense honor for me!"

Gaining the recognition and praise from a heavyweight like Lin Xuan was the ultimate accolade for Qin Hu. To climb higher, he knew he needed to work for influential figures such as Lin Xuan. This filled Qin Hu with optimism about his future, understanding that all he needed to do was follow the lead of this prominent individual.

After wrapping up, Lin Xuan approached the hospital bed and inquired of Sun Jianguo, "Are you content with how things were handled?"

Sun Jianguo shuddered with emotion, nearly leaping out of bed to bow deeply to Lin Xuan. "Mr. Lin, I can't thank you enough! I'm more than satisfied!"

His voice quivered with excitement, tears threatening to spill over. He had never imagined Lin Xuan would come to his aid so significantly, delivering such satisfying retribution on his behalf.

Lin Xuan gave a nod of approval. "Well then, focus on your recovery. From here on out, it's up to you. And remember, a man must always stand tall and proud."

Tears welled up in Sun Jianguo's eyes. "Mr. Lin, your generosity is beyond my ability to repay. I'd gladly serve you for the rest of my days!"

Lin Xuan chuckled. "Having that spirit is enough. Just concentrate on managing your store well. If I ever need your help, I'll be sure to let you know."

"Absolutely! I won't hesitate!" Sun Jianguo assured him, nodding vigorously.

"One more thing," Lin Xuan added, "keep today's events to yourself. If word gets out, it could cause me trouble. Understand?"

Sun Jianguo responded earnestly, "Rest assured, Mr. Lin, my lips are sealed. I wouldn't speak a word, even under threat."

"Good," Lin Xuan affirmed. "Take care of yourself. I'll speak with Qin Hu on my way out to ensure the nurses give you the attention you deserve. I must be going now."

As Lin Xuan prepared to leave, Sun Jianguo's gratitude was palpable, his thanks profuse and heartfelt.

Qin Hu arranged for a car to take Lin Xuan home, yet she refrained from mentioning the incident to Pei Qiuyu.

All he wanted was for his wife to be happy; he would handle the rest.

...

Pei Jinzheng was released without charges.

Upon arriving home, he poured out his grievances to Old Lady Pei and Sun Lanping.

He lamented about the poor food and sleep, the beatings from fellow inmates, and nearly being exploited.

Old Lady Pei was heartbroken for her grandson.

Sun Lanping spat bitterly, "That wretch Pei Qiuyu is to blame for my son's suffering!"

"Mom, while checking out Jinzheng's potential marital home, I spotted Pei Qiuyu and Lin Xuan at Four Seasons—they've bought a place there!"

Pei Jinzheng's eyes bulged with shock. "They bought a house there?! On what grounds?!"

"And it's the largest garden villa!" Sun Lanping exclaimed with fervor.

"Really?" Old Lady Pei inquired.

Sun Lanping affirmed, "Absolutely. Ask Shasha; she witnessed it too!"

Old Lady Pei turned to Pei Qiusha. "Shasha, is this true?"

Pei Qiusha scoffed, "She's nothing without Qin Hu. To me, Pei Qiuyu is shamelessly flirtatious!"

"I'd never believe she's not involved with Qin Hu. Would he have sold her the house so cheaply if they hadn't been intimate?"

"That fool Lin Xuan is blissfully ignorant of being cuckolded—a complete idiot!"

Old Lady Pei inhaled sharply, fuming, "Pei Qiuyu is a disgrace, tarnishing the Pei family name and honor!"

Pei Jinzheng clenched his jaw. "That little tramp Pei Qiuyu thinks she can look down on me because she's found a backer?"

Sun Lanping chimed in, "Exactly, by what right? We cannot swallow this insult!"

"If it hadn't been for Mom and your sister pulling strings and spending a fortune, you'd still be behind bars. We'll make sure Pei Qiuyu's family pays for this!"

Pei Jinzheng declared firmly, "I can't just let this slide. They've had it too easy!"

Old Lady Pei urged him, "My boy, you've only just been released. Try to keep a low profile for now."

Pei Jinzheng reassured her, "Grandma, please don't worry. I promise to stay on the straight and narrow this time and not cause you any stress."

Old Lady Pei nodded with approval, "Ah, Jinzheng, you're truly the best, the most considerate. You always take such good care of your grandma."

By then, Pei Jinzheng had already decided on his course of action.

He didn't believe for a second that Pei Qiuyu had anything to do with his release; he was convinced it was his own family's connections that had sprung him.

As a result, his resentment towards the entire Pei Qiuyu family deepened. He wouldn't rest until he had his revenge.

...

The following day, bright and early, Lin Xuan set out a lavish breakfast spread. After Pei Qiuyu had her fill, she headed off to work.

Taking his mother-in-law Lee Moxiang's advice to heart, Lin Xuan dropped his wife off at the company and then set out to secure a steady job for himself.

Upon arriving at Y Corporation, Pei Qiuyu had just parked when two more cars pulled up behind her.

Out stepped three uniformed individuals who called out loudly, "Who here is the manager? Your company has been accused of tax evasion, and we're here to conduct a thorough investigation!"

Pei Qiuyu was taken aback by the sudden accusation.