Chapter 54: You Are So Creepy

She was the eldest daughter-in-law of the family, bearing burdens far heavier than most, especially with her husband disabled. Her marriage to Nalan Che was not born of mutual affection but was the result of an arranged union dictated by their elders.

Her son was exceptionally clever, knowing precisely how to exploit their weaknesses and silence their criticisms.

“There’s an urgent matter at the Di Cha Group; I must return immediately to handle it.” With his purpose fulfilled, Nalan Che embraced Tong Xiaoman—who was filled with reluctance—and departed with effortless ease.

Outside in the courtyard, Muzi stood quietly, her heart heavy with sorrow as she waited for them.

Tong Xiaoman glanced at Muzi, then shot a sideways look at Nalan Che, mocking, “You’ve shattered that girl’s fragile heart.”

Nalan Che snorted coldly, dismissive. “I told her long ago, I would never marry her.”

“How heartless. She was utterly in love with you.” Tong Xiaoman sympathized with the poor woman—engaged but already cast aside.

“That’s her problem.” His voice was icy, even more merciless.

“I heard you grew up in the same grand mansion. You were childhood sweethearts, weren’t you? Why do you dislike her so much?” Tong Xiaoman had always believed that childhood sweethearts were the most endearing, yet from his tone, it was clear he harbored no fondness for her.

His expression was indifferent. “It’s not dislike. I just never felt anything.”

No feelings?

Tong Xiaoman lifted her chin, narrowing her eyes at him. “So you have strong feelings for me then?”

He tightened his arm around her waist, pulling her body closer, a wicked smile curling at his lips. “You’re the first to make me want you.”

A storm of dark bolts flashed across Tong Xiaoman’s mind.

She raised her hand and punched his chest sharply, glaring at him through gritted teeth. “You really do take orders from your lower instincts.”

This scoundrel could say anything without a shred of shame.

“Absolutely,” he admitted brazenly, gripping her wrist.

A woman he desired had to appeal to his manhood.

“You’re disgusting. Let go of me.” She thought his subordinates should hear such remarks—after all, he was rumored to be a cold, stern, decisive leader, known for his strict discipline and unwavering authority.

Pah! Those legends were not to be trusted. At least in her presence, she saw no trace of the formidable man the world revered.

To Muzi’s eyes, their playful quarrel was a picture of enviable sweetness.

Her heart ached even more.

She stepped forward, wearing a bittersweet smile. Her gentle voice carried a faint sadness. “Brother Che, congratulations on finding someone you truly like.”

Tong Xiaoman was surprised. Clearly, Nalan Che had wronged Muzi, and she had expected a scolding or confrontation. Yet Muzi came to offer her congratulations—the woman’s endurance was remarkable indeed.

If it had been her, she wouldn’t have just poisoned him; she’d have ruined his manhood so he could never be decent again.

“Thank you.” Nalan Che nodded coldly, his demeanor distant, unwilling to speak further. He quickly pulled Tong Xiaoman away.

Looking back, Tong Xiaoman saw Muzi standing like a ghost in the sunlight, her bright eyes slowly filling with crystalline tears.

Muzi straightened her back and continued watching their retreating figures, never wiping the tears that fell from her eyes.