Chapter 15: Mother and Daughter

The butler gradually stepped back, preparing to open the study door, when it was suddenly pushed open forcefully from outside. A lively figure bounced in and threw herself into Chu Changyun’s arms. “Daddy, I found a set of jewelry I really like today. Will you buy it for me?”

He put down his pen, pressed his fingers against his brow, and said helplessly, “Yuanyuan, how many times have I told you not to be so extravagant? You’re not a child anymore; you need to learn to be more sensible.”

“Daddy, you’re so naggy! It’s just a set of jewelry. If you won’t buy it, I’ll ask Mommy!” Chu Feiyuan pouted in dissatisfaction and reluctantly sat down on the nearby sofa.

The butler Ding, who had nearly been bumped, lowered his eyes and quietly left the study, isolating himself outside the door.

“Yuanyuan, you’re already twenty years old. Why are you always thinking about these things and neglecting your duties?” Chu Changyun was at a loss with her. Although he was technically ten years older than Chu Guiyun, his child was only two years older than Yuanyuan, so he had always been indulgent since they were young.

“How am I neglecting my duties?” Chu Feiyuan’s eyes welled up with tears, feeling very wronged. “I haven’t even graduated yet. Once I do, I’ll find a job—it won’t bother you.”

“Sigh, you~” Seeing her tears, he was utterly helpless and didn’t know how to persuade her, so he changed the subject. “How much is the jewelry? I’ll get a check from the company tomorrow.”

“Daddy, you’re the best! I love you!” She rushed over, hugged him, and planted a big kiss on his cheek.

“You, huh!” He tapped her nose and shook his head. This child didn’t know who she learned it from—throwing tantrums and playing tricks with ease. Seeing her reminded him of something. “By the way, Yuanyuan, your cousin has returned to the ancestral home. You should go see her tomorrow.”

“That idiot? What’s so interesting about her? I’m not going!” Chu Feiyuan sat back on the sofa, crossed her legs, and refused outright without a second thought.

“Yuanyuan!” He shouted sternly, his expression darkening. “What are you saying? You must go tomorrow.”

“No, no, I’m not going!” She shook her head vigorously and shouted loudly, catching the attention of Li Xiaofen, who was passing by outside.

She pushed the door open and saw her daughter’s aggrieved expression. Protective as ever, she said, “Changyun, why are you being so harsh with Yuanyuan?”

“If I’m harsh, ask her yourself.” Chu Changyun pointed at Chu Feiyuan. “What nonsense did she say?”

“Yuanyuan, tell Mommy what you did.” Li Xiaofen sat beside her and gently smoothed her long hair.

“Mommy, I didn’t do anything. Daddy just told me to go to the ancestral home to see my cousin tomorrow.” She curled her lips disdainfully. “What’s so interesting about that idiot? I refused, and Daddy scolded me!”

“Changyun, Yuanyuan doesn’t want to go. Let it be—what’s so special about that child?” Li Xiaofen said. “She’s just an idiot. Why should your daughter go see her? Really, Changyun.”

“Xiaofen, how can you say that? Tongtong is Guiyun’s daughter and Yuanyuan’s cousin. By all reason and sentiment, she should go see her.” Seeing the two women allied against him, he sighed inwardly. It was all his fault for spoiling his daughter so badly.

“What are you talking about? I’m the eldest uncle; she should come visit you. When has a cousin gone to see her elder cousin? Who does she think she is?” Li Xiaofen was used to being strong-willed and couldn’t tolerate any slight.

“You—” Chu Changyun was so angry he was speechless. He snorted and left the study with a flourish.

“Mommy, Daddy—he’s...” Chu Feiyuan felt a little scared; after all, he rarely got angry.

“It’s nothing. Your daddy will be fine soon,” Li Xiaofen said casually, not taking it to heart at all. If he had the guts not to come back, she’d be impressed.