Chapter 271: If Miss Gu Says You Cannot Interview, Then You Can't

Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios

Gu Qingjiu's reaction was fast as she quickly thought about the media.

As expected, the moment Gu Qingjiu opened the door, a wave of reporters outside seemed to try to force their way in.

"May I ask if this is the residence of Gu Hong, who was involved in an investment fraud?"

Although their words were polite, their actions looked like they were going to force their way in.

If Gu Qingjiu didn't prepare herself beforehand, she would've been pushed back by the force the moment she opened the door.

She was furious, but it was already too late to try to close the door so she pulled the door open with force. The people outside who were faced with this sudden action didn't have enough time to react and fell straight down.

They were all from a news agency.

One was a reporter in charge of the interview while the other was a cameraman.

Just the two of them.

Gu Qingjiu immediately narrowed her eyes at their tags. They were reporters from Dayi City's official broadcasting station.

They would definitely notice big cases of financial fraud like theirs.

However, they didn't expect a pretty young lady would open the door. The male reporter was dumbfounded.

Chen Yanhong again!

With Chen Yanhong at the entrance of the elevator, how could they use the elevator if she did not allow anyone to pass through?

"Coughs. May I know your relationship with..."

The male reporter recovered from his trance and quickly regained his professionalism. He quickly placed the microphone near Gu Qingjiu as he started his interview.

"Scram!"

Just looking at their tasteless manner of forcing the door open, it was already not worth it for Gu Qingjiu to treat them with kindness.

The male reporter's expression hardened, not expecting Gu Qingjiu to scold them.

"We are reporters from Dayi City's official broadcasting station. This time, we wish to ask you about the fraud incident..."

"My father is not a criminal. I will have to trouble you to go to the police station directly to understand the situation from them. We don't have to accept your interview. If you don't leave now, I will call for the police to get them to fetch you."

Her cold words and a cold glint in her eyes as she said that gave people immense pressure.

The reporter was unhappy. "Interviewing people is our right as media personnel..."

"Your rights? Then rejecting your interview is our rights as common folks. Who told you that media personnel has the right to barge into other people's houses? And that camera of yours, if you don't switch it off right now, you have to deal with the consequences yourself."

As Gu Qingjiu spoke, she could see the blinking lights on the camera which showed that it was recording.

Her icy glare turned to the camera.

In her eyes was an aura so chilling and sinister it felt like the depths of hell. The cameraman shuddered, but he didn't stop the camera from recording...

"Miss, you said 'my father' so it means that the criminal Gu Hong is your father..."

"If you spout another line of nonsense, I will cut your tongue off. Do you believe me?"

This reporter initially termed Gu Hong as a person involved in the financial fraud, but now he directly accused him as the criminal. It was evident that he did it on purpose after Gu Qingjiu's attitude angered him.

This went against the code which all reporters followed.

Gu Qingjiu suddenly smiled.

Her smile was as pretty and gentle as a blooming peach blossom, an indescribable beauty. Yet, every word she said ran chills down people's spines as if something frosty cold was biting into their bones.

This girl in front of them had a blood-chilling aura.

In front of the camera, she dared to threaten them

Simply absurd. As expected of the daughter of a scammer.

Moreover...

But before they could speak, a deep male voice was heard from behind them—

"If Miss Gu says that you cannot interview them, that means you can't."

Chapter 272: Simply Brutal

Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios

This male voice exuded a combination of respect and oppression.

The male reporter and the cameraman were startled, and they turned back to see a burly man with sunglasses standing behind them.

His appearance was sudden and silent.

Causing the hearts of the reporter and cameraman to turn cold.

Gu Qingjiu, on the other hand, saw him walking up the stairs.

It was Joker, the person He Niancheng instructed to aid her.

Joker elegantly moved forward and bowed towards Gu Qingjiu.

His burly figure was oppressive enough, but his actions were that of a gentleman.

Maintaining a perfect poise of social etiquettes.

The reporter and cameraman were confused by this scene.

They had no idea what this man was trying to do.

"I'm sorry for coming late, Miss. I was settling some things. I shouldn't have let these people disturb you."

His words sounded elegant, like those from royal families a century ago. It stunned Gu Qingjiu.

She had never seen such a poise before!

It was different from the awkward actions she had seen in dramas. Joker's actions were gracious and natural as if he was truly from those ancient noble families.

People by He Niancheng's side... were they all this high up?

She originally thought that Joker was just a burly subordinate under He Niancheng for handling rougher jobs...

"It's okay..."

She waved her arms. Joker's gaze already turned towards the two people in front of her.

He stretched out his hand and a smile appeared beneath his sunglasses. He was the image of a gentleman. "Please give me the film of the camera."

But his words were not courteous at all.

The camera recorded Gu Qingjiu's appearance.

If the reporter brought it back, they would definitely spread it.

Gu Qingjiu's face cannot appear in front of the public.

"Do you think that just because you said to hand it over, we will actually hand it over? This belongs to us!"

The reporter swallowed. Although he felt that the man's words were impolite, it had a dangerous air to it.

They suddenly stumbled backward.

Gu Qingjiu watched from the side without interfering.

She turned back to look at Qi Yuefeng's room door. Seeing that it was still closed tightly, Gu Qingjiu relaxed a little.

She tossed and turned without sleeping the previous night. Now that she received the news, she should be sound asleep.

It was why she didn't wake up.

"Sir, I am a civilized person."

Joker stated but the reporter obviously didn't believe him.

"So, if we can settle this in a civilized manner, we should do that. If we can't..."

He didn't complete his sentence.

The slight uplift of his lips looked meaningful.

"Impossible, this belongs to our broadcasting station. If we gave you just because you say it, then..."

Despite so, before the male reporter could finish his words of forced bravery, Joker's lips tilted downwards.

Gu Qingjiu could not clearly see Joker's action. She only suddenly felt his hand reach out. His silhouette flashed as fast as lightning in front of her as he snatched the camera from them and threw it onto the ground.

With a 'bang.' It was simply brutal!

Gu Qingjiu raised her eyebrows in slight disbelief.

After that, she saw Joker lift the two guys who were at least 1.7 to 1.8 meters tall up like chickens, with one hand on each.

"Let me go. Let me go!!"

The reporter and cameraman struggled in his hold as they kicked their feet in the air. It wasn't worth mentioning how funny that sight looked.

Joker smirked and he threw them out.

'Thud!!!'

'Thud!!!'

Two loud thuds were followed with agonized moans from two specific people.

And Chen Yanhong's shriek from downstairs.

Joker looked at the camera which was on the ground and stomped firmly on it once again.

'Crack!'

A camera which cost hundreds of thousand was instantly destroyed.

Chapter 273: Yu Family's Goal, Understood Even Without Explanation

Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios

"No!!!"

The cameraman's heart broke seeing that.

A camera from the broadcasting station usually costs quite a sum and employees were required to take good care of it.

And now, the man mercilessly destroyed one of those cameras.

They would definitely be reprimanded like dogs when they go back!

And not just that...

Gu Qingjiu looked on in confusion. "Why did you step on it? They will report us for vandalizing public property."

Reporters from broadcasting stations loved doing that.

Joker revealed a calm smile to Gu Qingjiu. "They won't. Miss Gu, you can rest assured. There won't be any consequences."

In other words, Gu Qingjiu didn't have to worry.

With him saying that Gu Qingjiu would definitely not comment anymore.

Afterward, Gu Qingjiu caught sight of two men clad in black suits. The men quickly dragged the cameraman and reporter away.

Gu Qingjiu merely watched on and didn't probe.

Joker continued, "Miss Gu, I came here to inform you that Hu Yan was sent to the police station. The police will be sending your father back soon."

"Hu Yan is already at the police station?"

Gu Qingjiu revealed a surprised expression. She didn't expect it to be this fast.

"Yes. I'm here to inform you. If you have anything else which you need help with, please feel free to give me an order."

"No, no, no, it's okay. I'm very thankful to you."

His respectful words made Gu Qingjiu feel a little weird.

The main thing was probably Joker's appearance which gave Gu Qingjiu the illusion that she was in a castle-like ancient times.

It was too out of the world. This common folk is frightened.

If such a person was the Chief Instructor's subordinate, what kind of place did the Chief Instructor come from?

"Then, I shall take my leave first."

Joker was a great gentleman. Before he left, he even kindly cleared up the 'mess' at Gu family's entrance.

She watched Joker leave before she went back to the room to check on her mother.

When she pushed the bedroom door ajar, she realized that her mother was still sound asleep.

She exhaled silently before she closed the door quietly.

Now that Hu Yan was arrested, her father would be home soon.

Which was why Gu Qingjiu did not return to her room and instead waited in the living room.

Not long after, she heard the police sirens.

She excitedly stood up and went to the windows to take a look.

As expected, police cars stopped downstairs. Under the watching eyes of people around, Gu Hong stepped out from the police car.

Gu Qingjiu watched him as he got down from the car and her nose soured.

It had been a night, but he seemed to have aged years. She was too far away to clearly see Gu Hong's expression.

But she could feel that his condition was bad.

When Gu Hong came up, Gu Qingjiu immediately opened the door for him.

When Gu Hong appeared in the lobby, she immediately called out. "Dad!"

Her voice was trembling as she ran into Gu Hong's embrace.

"I'm sorry."

She choked out.

If it wasn't because of her, because of the Yu family, why would her father meet with such a disaster when he was already so old?

Even if this incident was cleared up, it would affect Gu Hong's reputation with his friends to a certain extent.

"Silly child. What are you sorry about? This is because Dad didn't see clearly."

And was lied to by a person whom he was friends with for decades.

Gu Qingjiu remained silent. How would she dare say that the person was sent by the Yu family?

Yu family's goal was evident.

For them to frame Gu Hong, it must have been their scheme to force Gu Qingjiu to return to the Yu family.

Chapter 274: Embarrassed

Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios

But they never thought of it.

Neither did Gu Qingjiu.

And as for the Chief Instructor who was in no way related to this incident to interfere to such an extent...

What Gu Qingjiu didn't know was that ever since he saved her the previous time, he had been paying close attention to the Yu family.

Yu family's scheme this time was as transparent as glass in front of He Niancheng.

Three weeks ago, He Niancheng had already found Hu Yan's whereabouts when he escaped overseas to hide.

Else, he wouldn't be able to bring him in within a single day. Even if He Niancheng could do it, the journey didn't allow it.

But naturally, he wouldn't tell these things to Gu Qingjiu.

Gu Qingjiu watched Gu Hong come back home. His usually refined face was etched with fatigue.

Strands of white hair could be seen on his originally full head of black hair.

Causing people's hearts to ache upon seeing it.

She didn't know how he had held up in the holding cell for the past ten hours, where he was probably cold and hungry.

"Dad, is Hu Yan under investigation at the police station?"

Once both of them had settled down, Gu Qingjiu asked.

Mr. Gu nodded but his eyes showed his confusion. "I don't even know who caught Hu Yan. The police didn't tell me the specifics. They just said that someone helped."

Oh, Gu Hong still didn't know that it was He Niancheng who had helped them out.

Gu Qingjiu only told her mother after all.

"It was the Chief Instructor."

Gu Qingjiu didn't intend to conceal He Niancheng's efforts.

"Your Chief Instructor?"

Gu Hong fell into deep contemplation. After a while, he sighed. "Qingjiu, that Chief Instructor is our benefactor!"

If Hu Yan was not captured, Gu Hong's future would be thoroughly ruined.

"I know Dad."

There was no need to explain the gratitude she felt for the Chief Instructor. She went up to comfort. "Dad, you probably didn't get to rest properly last night. Go in and rest. Mom didn't get to rest yesterday night so she's resting now. Mom said to wait for you to get back before getting me to invite the Chief Instructor to Gu Yu Hotel for a meal to thank him for saving us this time."

Mr. Gu nodded approvingly. "Your mom is right, we have to ask him. Such a big favor cannot be repaid with just a meal, but you can leave the rest to your father."

Mr. Gu was a manager of a company. He was good at human relations. It was evident especially through this incident when people were still willing to believe in him despite the extenuating circumstances.

Getting him to settle these matters was the best choice.

Gu Qingjiu nodded. "Okay. Go in and rest. I will give the Chief Instructor a call."

Gu Hong walked into the bedroom. Gu Qingjiu heard Qi Yuefeng's voice excitedly calling out, "Dear!"

Followed by Gu Hong's hushed tone comforting her.

Gu Qingjiu couldn't help the slight uplift of her lips when she heard that.

The incident happened so suddenly that one couldn't defend themselves from it. But with the Chief Instructor's help, it was promptly resolved.

With Hu Yan arrested, if the Yu family was truly the mastermind behind this scheme, they would definitely plan their next steps carefully.

No matter how strong the Yu family was, they wouldn't dare to do this time after time.

Furthermore, nowadays, these noble families had the need to conduct these affairs in silence and watch out for netizens who would gladly involve themselves with such gossip.

If it wasn't a critical moment, Gu Qingjiu wouldn't make this incident big by posting it online.

She retrieved her cell phone from her pocket. After long contemplation, she finally decided to give him a call.

Sending a text always felt too informal.

But the Chief Instructor just returned to the camp this morning, and she would end up disturbing him with her phone call in the afternoon. Gu Qingjiu felt a little embarrassed doing it.

Chapter 275: Transfer Order

Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios

After three rings, the phone call went through...

"Is something the matter?"

The voice from the opposite end was low pitched and sexy. He asked right away, evidently knowing that it was Gu Qingjiu who called.

Somehow, Gu Qingjiu's heart would always flutter whenever she heard this voice. Even her face would flush. "Chief Instructor, my Dad is already home. Thank you very much!"

"I know."

His tone made Gu Qingjiu a little speechless, for he sounded like he had everything under control.

In order to prevent the atmosphere from becoming awkward, she quickly stated the purpose of the phone call. "Chief Instructor, it's like this. My parents are very thankful for your help this time. I can't do anything in return as gratitude, for now, so I would like to invite you for a meal on the 4th of March at the Gu Yu Hotel. Would you be free to come?"

"..."

The person on the other end of the line remained silent for a while.

Gu Qingjiu became a little anxious.

On one hand, she'd already expected the Chief Instructor to reject the invitation. However, on the other hand, a tiny part of her hoped that he would accept.

"Okay."

She heard his reply. Her originally strung up heart suddenly relaxed at his voice.

"Okay, Chief Instructor! We will be waiting for you then!"

She was slightly excited. She couldn't hide her happiness even across the call.

When she hung up the call, she naturally couldn't see He Niancheng's lips curling upwards.

Even the coldest icebergs would melt one day.

Huo Yingcheng's face was colored with disbelief and shock when he rushed into the room to see the smile on He Niancheng's face. Moreover, he hadn't wiped it from his face yet!

Which shocked him further!

"You... You..."

He pointed at He Niancheng. His expression was that of someone who had just seen something unacceptable.

He Niancheng frowned and his voice turned stern. "You can't even articulate yourself properly now?"

"Major-General.... you..." No matter how he thought about it, asking about why he was smiling was probably pointless. Huo Yingcheng angrily showed the paper in his hand. "What is this?! Major-General, tell me what this is?!"

He Niancheng only swept his eyes over it, not bothering to even take a closer look. He replied in a nonchalant tone, "You've been in China for so long and you cannot even read simple Chinese characters?"

"Of course, I can read them. I'm asking you about the reason behind this! A transfer order?! Major-General, why do you want to get transferred to the capital? Old Master is aware of this and is getting me to ask you what exactly you want to do!"

"He made you ask me, but does that mean you can ask me with such an attitude?"

He Niancheng narrowed his eyes and a dangerous aura surrounded him, causing Huo Yingcheng to retreat instantly.

"Major-General, I just don't understand..."

He had just returned from the empire yesterday, and the Old Master rushed him back to the camp.

And the reason for that was because He Niancheng went around the Empire to submit a transfer request to China.

He requested to be transferred to the capital!

Heck. Can someone who was exiled act more like his part?

Did he think that he could transfer anytime he wanted to?

China sent that information to the Empire in confusion, but in the end, still approved the transfer application.

The Old Master was so furious that his heart attack almost acted up.

He Niancheng didn't answer any of the Empire's calls either.

It was why Huo Yingcheng had to rush back.

He was going to ask about this matter.

"Major-General, you cannot do these things so brashly. You're here as a punishment. If you're so wilful and transfer as and when you wished, wouldn't it look bad?"

Huo Yingcheng tried his best to make his words sound amicable.

Else, not only would He Niancheng not let him off, he might even be scolded by the Old Master when he got back.

Damn this slave life!

Chapter 276: Yu family, Wait On

"I've just requested a change of location. Why are you guys panicking so much?"

He Niancheng appeared calm, a stark contrast to Huo Yingcheng.

"But you didn't get the Old Master's approval beforehand and applied directly to China. This is not very appropriate..."

He Niancheng stared coldly at Huo Yingcheng. "Which part of it is inappropriate?"

The certainty he had in his words were evidently disallowing Huo Yingcheng to continue probing.

Huo Yingcheng shut his mouth.

He looked at the address on the paper before he mumbled. "Whatever. Since you've already done it, just transfer. But why did you transfer to a military academy..."

"Gu Qingjiu's family is treating me to a meal on the 4th of March. Come along with me."

His question was cut off and Huo Yingcheng choked when he heard that piece of news.

After a short while, he sucked in a breath of cold air. "Major-General, what did you just say?"

He Niancheng couldn't even be bothered to explain, opting to turn and leave instead.

Leaving behind a befuddled Huo Yingcheng.

He wasn't around for just a measly month. What was with this insane development?

Why did Qingjiu's family want to treat the Major-General to a meal?

...

After Gu Qingjiu had made the call to He Niancheng, she waited for her parents to wake up before she told them.

The reason why it was fixed on the 4th of March was that she had to leave on the 5th, and she happened to have time on the 4th.

Her father would definitely still be busy for these few days at the police station to settle some more things so he could make use of the extra time.

With regard to Hu Yan, the police station already told Mr. Gu about what had transpired the next day.

Hu Yan confessed that it was because of a moment's greed that he embezzled the money.

Now that all the money had been accounted for, the money would be returned to the respective victims after they officially closed the case.

Naturally, Gu Hong did not have to bear any responsibility.

After Gu Hong had returned home from the police station, he sat on the sofa and was deep in his thoughts.

Gu Qingjiu walked over and asked, "Dad, what did the police say?"

"Hu Yan admitted to all the crimes." After he had said that, Gu Hong frowned. "I think this incident is not so simple. I've known Hu Yan for so long that I think I have a good grasp on his character. He has the capabilities. Once he enters a company, the amount of wealth he would be able to generate in the future would be a large sum. Why did he have to use his whole life to pay for a moment's greed?"

As expected, her father realized that this incident was not as simple.

Gu Qingjiu knew that it was the Yu family behind Hu Yan.

According to the Yu family's orders, Hu Yan was to shoulder all the blame for this incident.

But the Yu family would definitely not sit around and watch Hu Yan get jailed. There was a high chance that they would meddle with the arrangements behind the scenes.

Even if Hu Yan didn't admit it, he couldn't possibly link this incident to the Yu family.

Gu Qingjiu said plainly, "It's good that it's over. Dad, how long will Hu Yan's jail term be?"

He thought about it for a while before replying."Hu Yan committed financial fraud and the amount embezzled was quite a huge sum of money. However, since the money was returned in full plus he admitted to everything in detail, he would probably be sentenced to a jail term of approximately three to seven years. If he performed well, he could probably be released earlier."

He had been in touch with all these for quite some time, so he had a better understanding of it.

Three to seven years of jail term was within Gu Qingjiu's expectation

But if the Yu family made plans, Hu Yan might be able to escape from jail sooner than that...

However, from what she could tell, there was no better way than the current one.

At that moment, she was about to enter the military academy. After such an incident, the Yu family probably wouldn't brazenly do it again.

Which leaves her with more time to plot her revenge.

Thinking about that, her eyes narrowed and a cold gleam flashed across them.

'Yu family, just you wait on!'

Chapter 277: Sigh, Still Studying High School and You Actually Targeted Her!

Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios

On the 4th of March, the three members of the Gu family went early to wait at the Gu Yu Hotel.

They reserved a private room. When the time was about right, they instructed the hotel to start preparing the dishes.

Because they invited the Chief Instructor.

Her parents were willing to spend this time, ordering basically all the more expensive dishes which the Chief Instructor ordered the other time.

They were all the most expensive dishes in the hotel.

One meal would cost them tens of thousands.

The Gu family did not usually spend that much. The amount which they spent on this meal was probably more than the amount they spent in half a year.

But their hearts were not pained. This was all worth it. This was all for the benefactor who did them a huge favor. What pain was there in spending this money?

Gu Qingjiu suddenly remembered. When she was rescued from the Yu family the other time, she and the Chief Instructor went to eat at a similar place.

When she was only halfway done with the meal, the Chief Instructor said that he would leave.

She had yet to have her fill and the Chief Instructor was merciless in that regard—getting her to eat instant noodles at the camp when they returned.

Thinking about that, Gu Qingjiu couldn't resist the slight uptilt of her lips.

"What are you laughing about?"

Qi Yuefeng was dressed formally that day and had put some makeup on as well. Seeing the smile on her daughter's face, she asked.

Gu Qingjiu shook her head in reply. "It's nothing. I just recalled something funny which happened at the camp."

Qi Yuefeng couldn't hide her smile at that. "This child."

She realized that ever since Gu Qingjiu entered the army, not only did she feel like a different person, she seemed to become more cheerful as well.

Seeing her daughter gave her energy.

Furthermore, with her great looks, a young girl like her made people want to dote on her more.

Perhaps Gu Qingjiu signing up for the army was not a bad choice after all.

Gu Hong smiled warmly at Gu Qingjiu. "Qingjiu, when you go to the military academy this time, remember to train and study hard."

He didn't expect his daughter to be this lucky to be able to enter the army and get the opportunity to go to a military academy as well.

He sighed inwardly. His daughter did luck it out in certain aspects.

Gu Qingjiu nodded seriously. "Dad, Mom, don't worry. I'll definitely work hard."

Not for anyone else. She would work hard for herself.

Qi Yuefeng looked towards the door of the private room. "It's about time. He should be here soon? Qingjiu, go out and take a look. Don't make the guest feel like he's undeserved."

Gu Qingjiu stood up. "Okay. I will go out to take a look."

After that, she strode out.

Looking at how fast her daughter was, Qi Yuefeng couldn't help but lower her head and laugh. "Later, take a good look at our daughter and that Chief Instructor of hers."

Mr. Gu was a little confused upon hearing that.

On this side, Gu Qingjiu just went out and He Niancheng and Huo Yingcheng just in time arrived at the entrance of Gu Yu Hotel in their jeep.

Huo Yingcheng cleared all the confusion within these few days, but this situation still felt strange to him.

He went back to the Empire for a month and before he knew it, things had already developed to the stage where it was shocking his life principles.

When he received the information yesterday, his eyes almost popped out.

After getting down from the car, the two of them took long strides to the entrance of the hotel.

Their aura was unbelievable, especially He Niancheng's. He had attracted the attention of passers-by, causing them to reveal a face of shock.

After they had reached, they looked at the signboard of the hotel. Huo Yingcheng suddenly asked a question in a weird way. "Major-General, do you know of this idiom in China?"

He Niancheng didn't reply, simply sweeping his glance over him.

"Good and evil deeds go in a circle. If you don't believe it, just look up and see. Who will the heavens miss?"

He shot off, looking at He Niancheng, speaking of a somewhat familiar statement...

"Aish. She was still studying in high school and you actually had your eyes on her!"

Chapter 278: Appreciation Dinner

These words sounded very familiar.

So familiar that He Niancheng instantly recalled it.

However, he didn't express any shame whatsoever.

He merely gazed at his eyes and said, "She's already in the university."

Huo Yingcheng nearly vomited blood.

Beast!

Shameless fellow!

Back then He Niancheng had used these words on him, and now that he was talking about himself, he came up with such a justified and confident reason.

Huo Yingcheng wanted to continue speaking, but then he saw Gu Qingjiu jogging out from the hotel.

Gu Qingjiu, who already saw them, excitedly waved at them.

Seeing Gu Qingjiu's vibrant demeanor, Huo Yincheng took another look at the cold He Niancheng.

Hmph, pretentious!

"Chief Instructor! Commander Huo, you're back?"

Gu Qingjiu initially saw He Niancheng first, but upon seeing Huo Yingcheng behind He Niancheng, she instantly waved hello to them, looking delighted.

Although he was silently grumbling about He Niancheng, he still faced Gu Qingjiu with a pleasant smile.

"Yeah, just came back yesterday."

Gu Qingjiu wasn't surprised to see a smiley Huo Yingcheng. She said in a natural manner, "Come in with me."

Service staff had long wanted to go up to them when she saw He Niancheng's face.

But when she saw Gu Qingjiu go over, and seeing that they seemed to know each other, the service staff could only remain where she was and stare eagerly.

He Niancheng had been around twice now, so he wasn't foreign to the service staff.

But as he appeared to have a cold disposition, these service staff didn't dare do anything.

When Gu Qingjiu brought Huo Yingcheng and He Niancheng to the suite, she saw her parents talking in hushed whispers.

"Dad! Mom!"

The instant she called out to the two of them, they quickly turned their heads around.

Upon seeing He Niancheng, Gu Hong stood up first. "My good nephew, hello, hello."

There wasn't any problem for him to address He Niancheng as 'my good nephew.'

He stuck out his hand, and He Niancheng glanced at it for a moment. During that moment, Gu Qingjiu seemed to see a hint of struggle in his eyes.

He was a serious clean freak...

However, it was just for a moment. He stuck out his hand, and although he didn't smile, his attitude was still considered gentle.

"How do you do, Uncle?"

This subtle reaction didn't escape Gu Hong's eyes.

It didn't make him feel that He Niancheng was being arrogant, but he instantly sensed that a person like him perhaps didn't like physical contact with others.

Hence, after they briefly shook their hands, the two of them quickly let go of the other's hand.

Gu Qingjiu introduced them by the side. "Dad, this is Commander Huo, he came to our house before."

Gu Hong looked towards Huo Yingcheng, who appeared cheerful with his broad smile. "Uncle Gu, Auntie Gu, how do you do?"

"Aye, good, good, good. Hurry up and sit down."

Qi Yuefeng addressed them warmly, not at all feeling that Huo Yingcheng's arrival was abrupt or anything.

After the two of them were asked to sit down, Gu Qingjiu sat down next to Qi Yuefeng.

Gu Hong asked the waiter to bring them their food.

He personally poured a cup of tea for He Niancheng. "My good nephew, I will always remember your great kindness. If in the future you have any conditions, so long as it's within my means, I will do my best for you."

Although Gu Hong probably wouldn't be of help to a man of He Niancheng's status, he had to express his attitude.

Huo Yingcheng listened by the side, sputtering in laughter inwardly.

There definitely was something he could help with. When the time is right, but he might or might not agree.

At this point, Huo Yingcheng gazed towards Gu Qingjiu and was absorbed in thought.

Chapter 279: A Pleasant Meal For Everyone

Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios

Gu Qingjiu was listening to her father and He Niancheng's conversation when she felt Huo Yingcheng's gaze upon her. It struck her as odd.

She kept feeling that whenever Huo Yingcheng had his gaze on her, there was a complex look in his eyes. It seemed like he was sighing or something...

As though, he was mad at her for being a letdown.

In what ways was she a letdown?

Could it be because of the Yu family matter?

As Gu Qingjiu pondered over this, she poured Huo Yingcheng a cup of tea. "Commander Huo, I'm going to the military school in the capital soon. I don't know if we'll get to meet again. I'll toast you with this cup of tea, to bid you farewell."

When she said these words, the room fell silent.

He Niancheng, who was casually chatting with Gu Qingjiu's father, suddenly gazed towards the cup of tea Gu Qingjiu handed to Huo Yingcheng.

Gu Qingjiu paused for a moment. Seeing Huo Yingcheng shoot her a glance, she abruptly reacted and poured a cup for He Niancheng as well.

"Chief Instructor, Commander Huo, I toast the two of you."

Gu Qingjiu had asked prior to this and knew that the Chief Instructor didn't drink alcohol. Hence, there was no alcohol ordered. Even if Commander Huo could drink alcohol, she could only use tea as a substitute for wine.

After she had finished her words, Gu Qingjiu raised her head and gulped down the cup of tea.

It was a solemn topic, but Huo Yingcheng was grinning so widely that his teeth were clearly seen. "Yes, yes, Qingjiu. Once you get to the military school, work hard! This is your opportunity!"

If it wasn't for the fact that there were other people around, he would have stood up and patted Gu Qingjiu on her shoulders.

Just like what a leader would do to convey his sympathy.

Gu Qingjiu naturally nodded. She then watched as the Chief Instructor and Commander Huo finished their tea in one gulp like her.

Gu Hong quietly observed Gu Qingjiu and He Niancheng.

Because Commander Huo was also around, he didn't quite see anything strange between the two of them.

At the thought of how she was about to leave, Gu Qingjiu felt dispirited after taking the toast.

This was supposed to be an appreciation dinner, but at the thought of how she wouldn't get to see these people again, Gu Qingjiu didn't feel too happy. In the end, she could only force a smile.

Although He Niancheng had a cold personality, thankfully there was the bubbly Huo Yingcheng livening up the atmosphere today.

Despite the fact that he appeared rash on the surface and had no sense of propriety, the things he said actually made plenty of sense. He and Gu Hong hit it off quite well.

On the contrary, He Niancheng—the one who was invited—seemed to be the one accompanying Huo Yingcheng here.

But he didn't care.

He would respond with a sentence or two occasionally, and from time to time, glance at Gu Qingjiu who was focused on eating.

Towards the end of the meal, with no one stopping her this time, Gu Qingjiu ate enough for this meal to make up for what she missed out the previous time.

The appreciation dinner was about to end soon, and all throughout one could only hear Gu Hong and Huo Yingcheng chatting merrily. He Niancheng spoke very rarely on the other hand.

Finally, when they were about to leave, Qi Yuefeng raised her cup and toasted He Niancheng and Huo Yingcheng. "Thank you for taking care of my daughter in the army. Thank you so much."

Huo Yingcheng quickly waved a hand. "Please don't stand in a ceremony, Auntie. Qingjiu is so cute, who wouldn't want to take care of her, right?"

After he had finished speaking, he boldly poked He Niancheng's waist. "Commander He, don't you agree?"

He Niancheng's gaze lowered instantly. However, he didn't show it in front of Gu Qingjiu's parents, and only cast a cold glance at an angle where Huo Yingcheng could see.

He then nodded.

Huo Yingcheng nearly died of laughter inside.

Qi Yuefeng covered her mouth and smiled, before finishing that cup of tea.

It was a pleasant meal for everyone.

Chapter 280: Heading to the Military School

After the meal had ended, He Niancheng and Huo Yingcheng returned to the military camp together.

When they were about to leave, Gu Qingjiu waved them goodbye.

Huo Yingcheng returned the wave with a face full of smiles, whereas He Niancheng wore the same old look of indifference.

The latter didn't even say goodbye to her.

Watching their back views as they left, Gu Qingjiu's feelings were complex.

But afterward, she thought of the fact that she was about to head to the military school tomorrow. She was about to commence a brand new life.

She stored away these feelings in the depths of her heart.

She would just take this as a laughable fantasy.

Now that she had woken from her dream, it was time to start her own life.

Gu Qingjiu's parents watched her from the back, and unlike earlier on when they were super glad they managed to survive a disaster, they were now gesticulating behind Gu Qingjiu's back.

When Gu Qingjiu turned around, the two of them had broad smiles on their faces and pretended like nothing happened. "Let's go, Qingjiu. Let's go home."

Gu Qingjiu nodded. "Okay."

Feeling somewhat depressed, she went home together with her parents.

...

On the 5th of March, Gu Qingjiu got out of bed early in the morning.

She had already packed her luggage. As they were going to the capital today, Gu Qingjiu's father sent Qingjiu to the hospital early in the morning.

After resolving Hu Yan's matter, although it was unavoidable that Gu Hong's relationship with some of his previous clients would be affected due to this matter, his company still trusted him. His big boss even continued to leave Gu Hong in charge of that company.

Hence, Gu Hong didn't suffer many losses.

So long as he maintained his credibility, it was a matter of time before he regained those old clients he lost.

After all, he had been in Dayi City for so many years. He wouldn't fail as a person.

He sent Gu Qingjiu to the airport, and on the way, she looked out the window at the scenery.

After one night's sleep, she basically resumed her usual calm demeanor.

When they reached the airport, her father helped her carry her luggage, while she gazed around at her surroundings. She didn't get to see Qi Xiaoran before she entered the security screening.

After her luggage went through the security screening, she turned around and waved at her father. "Dad, goodbye."

Her father waved at her and reminded her, "When you reach the capital, listen to your brother. Also, focus on your training!"

Gu Qingjiu nodded. She was about to leave her parents for now, but she didn't feel sad about parting.

She knew that she would come back sooner or later, hence she didn't feel anxious.

One noteworthy thing was that they didn't tell Gu Qingmo about her trip to the capital.

Gu Qingjiu wanted to give Gu Qingmo a surprise.

After getting through the security screening, it was time to enter the terminal.

The flight to the capital was a popular one; right now, there were already plenty of people.

However, amongst the crowd, Gu Qingjiu spotted Qi Xiaoran at first glance.

She was sitting there in a simple winter sports outfit, and she was wearing her headphones.

Her cold demeanor made her seem like she was in a different world than those around her.

"Qi Xiaoran."

Gu Qingjiu walked over and sat down on an empty seat opposite her.

When Qi Xiaoran saw Gu Qingjiu, although she no longer ignored her completely, she merely nodded her head as a form of acknowledgment.

After that, Gu Qingjiu whipped out her phone and played on it while waiting to board the plane.

Both of the girls were pretty good looking—pretty in their own way. Hence, they attracted stares from other passengers waiting to board the plane.

Most of the people here were either on business trips or going on vacations with their families. There weren't many girls like Gu Qingjiu around at this time.

As she didn't arrive too early, shortly after, it was announced that they could start boarding the plane.