Chapter 41: The Older Brothers at the Orphanage

Back in the orphanage, Lin Mo had been cherished by her older brothers. However, after entering the Shadow organization, they had become increasingly twisted. One by one, they had grown abnormal and extremely dangerous. Lin Mo could not quite handle their brand of affection; in fact, she did not want it at all. Her gaze flickered as she considered how to draw less of their attention in the future. She deeply disliked that suffocating sense of possessiveness.

The car arrived at the destination. Lin Mo went inside to handle the bail procedures for Aunt Zhang. When Aunt Zhang emerged, clutching her luggage, she burst into tears the moment she stepped through the gate.

"Mo Mo, you came for me." The feeling of standing under the sun again was true freedom. "I thought I would never get out."

"Aunt Zhang, don't cry," Lin Mo said, feigning a relaxed smile. "See? Everything is fine now. Don't worry, I knew you were innocent. You are free now, and there will be no criminal record."

Aunt Zhang nodded and took Lin Mo’s hand. "It’s all thanks to you. What exactly happened?"

"I’m not sure myself. I cleaned the house every day," Aunt Zhang said, bewildered. "But then the young lady suddenly claimed her diamond necklace was missing, and a swarm of investigators arrived. In the end, they 'found' the necklace in my room." She spoke with deep sorrow. "You know I’ve been with the Lin family for over a decade. I would never do such a thing."

Lin Mo nodded. "I know. Your only mistake was being good to me."

Aunt Zhang paused, realization dawning on her. "The eldest daughter already has the love of the entire family; why would she do such a thing? You are the biological daughter of the Master and Madam; they are so blinded." She added, "I tried to advise the Madam, but she... she simply wouldn't listen."

Lin Mo shook her head. In truth, there was no foundation of affection between them. Plus, with Lin Wan going to such lengths to smear her reputation, it would be a miracle if the Lin family liked her. Ultimately, they had never trusted her.

"It doesn't matter. From today on, everything related to the Lin family has nothing to do with me." Lin Mo took out her household registration book. "Look, I’ve already moved my registration out."

Aunt Zhang was incredulous, her eyes turning red. "Miss, you’re being foolish. You are the Lin family’s true daughter. By moving your registration out, aren't you just handing everything over to others? You’ve suffered outside for so many years—don't you want to be with your family?"

"I used to want that." Lin Mo packed her things away and sighed. "Aunt Zhang, I’m going to settle you in with my grandparents; just think of it as taking care of them. I’ll pay you a salary every month, just like before."

Aunt Zhang shook her head. "I don't want money. I have no children, no husband, and not a single relative left. It’s enough that you’ve given me a place to live. No one in City A dares to hire me now; as long as I have food and shelter, I’m content. Besides, I have my own savings."

Lin Mo smiled. "It’s fine, I can afford it."

"But Miss, don't you have no money?"

"I did before, but not anymore."

Aunt Zhang found Lin Mo’s words today particularly strange. She listened, confused and only half-understanding. "Miss, please, don't do anything rash. You’re still so young; it doesn't matter that you moved out. In time, the Master and Madam will realize their mistake and regret this. It won't be too late for you to come back then."

Lin Mo did not want to discuss this further. "I’ll take you out for a meal, then send you to the station. My grandparents will meet you there."

***

At the Lin residence, Lin Wan sat on the sofa, lost in calculation. Mu Bai had come over especially to stay by her side, looking devoted. Lin Wan did not refuse his kindness; as she watched him peel grapes for her, she said, "Brother Mu Bai, you are so good to me. If Mo Mo sees this, she will surely be very sad. When she comes back later, please don't do this. I don't want her to be upset."

Mu Bai was moved by Lin Wan’s kindness, though he secretly wished not to sting Lin Mo again. A large part of why he had come today was to see her.

Qin Lian glanced at the time, growing impatient. "Lin Mo is really something, running around everywhere. It’s been nearly two hours, and she still isn't back on time. Why don't we stop waiting for her? She has no sense of time; we shouldn't all have to wait for one person."

Lin Tiancheng shook his head. "It’s alright, let’s wait a little longer. Mo Mo is much more obedient and sensible now; there’s still room for improvement." He took a sip of tea. "Everyone has been worried about Wan Wan’s studies lately, so let’s just take a good rest for now. Tomorrow night, I have to head to the airport to meet the flight."

Qin Lian’s mood brightened. "I saw it on the news headlines today; everyone in my social circle is discussing it. So many people are going to the airport; you’re going to have a hard time, aren't you?"

"It’s all for the sake of our family; what’s a little hard work?" Lin Tiancheng laughed heartily. "Mu Bai, is your family going too?"

"Of course. Although our Mu family’s assets exceed a hundred million, the Yaoming Group is even larger. My father and grandfather will be there in person. As far as I know, at least half of City A is mobilizing."

Lin Tiancheng felt the pressure mount. "So, it seems it will be difficult for me to meet the CEO."

"Not at all," Mu Bai smiled. "I’ve already told my father; you can join them at the welcome banquet."

Lin Tiancheng was stunned. "Mu Bai, you really are a good son-in-law... Even if you aren't one after tomorrow, you’ll still be my good nephew."

Qin Lian chimed in, "What do you know? Why wouldn't he be a son-in-law? People change, but it’s all much the same."

Lin Tiancheng realized her point, though he had been hoping for Wan Wan to marry a tycoon from the capital. Mu Bai was a bit lacking in comparison, but he wouldn't say that out loud. "Yes, a good son-in-law indeed."

Lin Mo walked in from outside, carrying two shopping bags.

"Mo Mo, you’re finally back. Let’s go," Lin Tiancheng stood up and cleared his throat. "You and Mu Bai take the same car. You two definitely need to discuss tomorrow’s matters."

Lin Wan frowned, but Mu Bai agreed.

Lin Mo pursed her lips and smiled slightly. "Alright, let me go change my clothes, and I’ll be down immediately."

Mu Bai watched her, his expression momentarily dazed. Lin Wan looked at Mu Bai, hoping he would refuse, but he showed no intention of doing so. She had to remind him, "Brother Mu Bai, didn't you say you would stay with me? Why the sudden change of plans?"

"Xiao Wan, it’s just this last time. I’m only discussing official business with her, don't overthink it. Once we arrive, I’ll have plenty of time to be with you."

Lin Wan felt awkward. "How could I overthink it? I just wanted to chat with you. Since you’re talking business, I certainly won't interfere."