Not long after Song Ziwen returned, he came to the capital again, and this time he was not alone; Yang Jing accompanied him. Her reasons for this trip were not only to add her name to the property purchase contract but also because she felt insecure after hearing Song Ziwen mention his plan to open a cabinet factory.

The pressure from their current three businesses, frankly speaking, was not that significant. The real estate agency only involved rent and staff salaries, and despite only operating for a few months, the returns were excellent. As for the decoration company, business was also thriving; clients paid upfront, eliminating any issue of capital outlay. However, starting a factory was far more complicated. It required purchasing machinery, hiring staff, preparing the plant, and securing vehicles. Yang Jing calculated the stress, estimating an investment of at least two to three hundred thousand—no small sum. Although Song Ziwen was confident in Wang Qiqi, and Yang Jing knew that following Qiqi meant good fortune, the problem was that she viewed this as a massive outlay of capital. If they misjudged, it could wipe out a year's worth of family income.

Before exiting the station, Song Ziwen repeated his warning, “When we get there, don't reveal the calculations you have in mind.” Regardless, Qiqi was merely offering an idea.

That day, after Wang Qiqi left, the Song father and son sat down for a serious discussion. Gong Peixing's involvement significantly boosted Song Ziwen’s confidence in the cabinet factory's success. Gong Peixing’s point was valid: the cabinet factory was somewhat related to his current industry, meaning they could manage the factory effectively. Furthermore, the elder Song could take on a managerial role once the factory was established. After summarizing everything, Song Ziwen felt a solid seven-tenths certainty about the venture. When Song Ziwen relayed this to Yang Jing, although she offered no outright opposition, her enthusiasm waned every time he brought up the factory. Her usual lively participation in their discussions vanished. If Song Ziwen hadn't realized this, he’d be a fool. Her insistence on coming this time made everything clear.

Yang Jing shot Song Ziwen a glare. Why was he so long-winded? Wasn't she thinking of the family? Yao Yao was starting a factory, and the family had already committed funds; their capital wasn't exactly tight, nor was it overly abundant. Starting another venture felt intensely pressuring. Yang Jing wasn't against opening a factory—business never guaranteed profit—but they needed some breathing room. For instance, they could wait until the second half of next year or the year after, when their finances would certainly be stable. Yang Jing knew that voicing this would only dampen Song Ziwen’s mood; once he felt an idea was viable, he became completely deaf to opposing opinions. She felt she couldn't handle him alone, and besides, wasn't this project initiated by Wang Qiqi and the others? They bore the responsibility of keeping Song Ziwen placated.

Yang Jing’s silence did not sit well with Song Ziwen; his wife was certainly family-minded and managed the household impeccably, keeping their shops running smoothly. However, she was inherently conservative, favoring preservation over expansion. If they needed her to pioneer something new, it was difficult. She would overthink every angle, forgetting that when he first entered the decoration business, he knew nothing—he relied solely on the experience of renovating a few houses for the family. At this moment, he just hoped Yang Jing wouldn't provoke Wang Qiqi and the others with her concerns, especially his older sister. “Fine, you can discuss it thoroughly with Qiqi and the others when we get there.”

“Don’t worry, I just have a few questions for them. Do you think I’ll argue with them?” Yang Jing thought, I'm not an idiot; why would I fight over money? Besides, I just want clear answers.

Song Yao wasn't at all surprised when her younger brother called to say Yang Jing was also coming to the capital. It would have been questionable if Yang Jing hadn't shown up to inquire about such a major development. Thus, when she greeted Song Ziwen and his wife, her expression was genuinely pleasant. “Did you have a smooth journey?”

Though she appeared unconcerned, Yang Jing was quite worried herself. She feared Qiqi and the others might hold reservations about her presence. Seeing Song Yao’s expression, she studied her for a moment and detected no trace of forced pleasantry, which greatly eased her mind. “Thank you for picking us up, Sister. We could have taken a cab back.” Song Yao’s shop was busy, and she also had the factory to manage; Yang Jing felt bad for making her come.

Once the couple was settled in, Song Yao immediately started the car. “If it were just my brother coming, I wouldn’t pick him up. But my sister-in-law is here, how could I not? Mom keeps nagging about why you didn't bring Niuniu and the kids; she says the capital is wonderful...” No matter how busy she was, her brother’s wife was visiting the capital; as the person employing her, and with a car available, she had to come. “Qiqi is treating us to dinner tonight.”

Qiqi is treating? Song Ziwen was puzzled. “Why is she treating us?” Although Qiqi was financially secure, and Song Ziwen often joked about eating like a pauper, whenever the group dined out, it was always Song Yao or Song Ziwen footing the bill. Wang Qiqi rarely paid. This time, it clearly indicated Qiqi had something important to discuss.

“She’s going abroad in September, to the UK. Her visa is already sorted.” While it wasn't the US Qiqi preferred, Song Yao was happy for her nonetheless. Moreover, she wasn't going alone; she was traveling with Shi Man and her university classmate Zhang Yan, offering mutual support.

“The visa is done?” Song Ziwen exclaimed. Yang Jing looked at Song Ziwen in surprise; how could this man be so oblivious to his relative’s news? He had just returned from the capital a few days ago, and such a huge development for Qiqi clearly meant preparations began while Song Ziwen was still in the city.

“Qiqi is giving up on the US side?” Yang Jing followed up. What good was a relationship if the couple spent so long apart? Though they were practically engaged, some things weren't cemented just by talking about them; even married couples could divorce.

Song Yao’s tone carried a hint of melancholy regarding the US news. “Qiqi waited until now and hasn't received notifications from any decent schools. She and Han Tao have made arrangements. Han Tao said he’d see how things develop; if possible, they could fly back and forth to visit. There are still a few months left; a lot can change.” Compared to Wang Qiqi, Lu Qiaowei seemed to be getting thinner, and that blockhead—whether genuinely busy or involved with another girl—had barely contacted Lu Qiaowei lately. If she asked Han Tao, he was too swamped to know Daizi’s current situation.

“That’s going to drain their savings,” Yang Jing calculated the airfare in her head and shivered. Good heavens, how could they manage without significant financial backing? Only Wang Qiqi and her circle could manage such an arrangement.

“If they don't see each other often, problems will definitely arise between them.” Song Yao thought that Yang Jing, being a finance major, was sometimes a bit petty, worrying about ticket costs. Han Tao’s value alone was enough to afford Qiqi a ticket to the outer reaches of the galaxy. “Oh, don’t even think about bringing gifts. Qiqi said she’s traveling light this time, no heavy bags or parcels.”

Song Yao mused that this was truly Qiqi—to avoid being burdened by luggage, she’d rather just take minimal things, perfectly capturing her free spirit. “Also, don't mention this at home. Mom has been nagging me daily about Qiqi’s extravagance.” Song Yao knew her mother meant well, but considering the exchange rate, the cost was quite high. However, Qiqi prioritized ease, and her mind was incredibly sharp; who knew what translation work she might pick up once she arrived in the UK.

Song Ziwen curled his lip; only his mother would fuss over this. “Mom hasn't seen Qiqi’s wardrobe, has she?” Song Ziwen knew that if she had, she wouldn't be saying that.

Yang Jing thought that the siblings were solely focused on Wang Damei’s concerns, completely overlooking Luo Hongjuan’s opinion. Luo Hongjuan was Qiqi’s actual mother-in-law. If she had objections to Qiqi’s plan, someone should gently advise Qiqi, as mother-in-law/daughter-in-law relations were crucial. For example, while her own parents stayed home looking after Niuniu, her in-laws had moved to the capital for an extended period, and Yang Jing had her own feelings about that. While her parents had good income and reputation, that was all. Her in-laws were different; the property they owned plus their cash reserves were substantial. Their grandson was so young, yet his paternal grandfather already promised him a property in the capital when he married. Her parents had only gifted some ancestral calligraphy and paintings, which, while valuable, weren't immensely so. No matter her feelings toward her in-laws, she had to consider the dynamics. “Did Aunt Luo say anything when she heard about Qiqi’s plans?”

“Aunt Luo has no objections; she’s hands-off about everything now. She’s far more understanding than our Mom,” Song Yao reflected. Her mother often spent time with Luo Hongjuan but hadn't picked up any of her tranquility. “But now that I think about it, Qiqi’s wardrobe doesn't have many fashionable items; a lot of the fabrics are just average quality…” As she spoke, Song Yao realized that even if she were dense, she wouldn't miss this. It explained why Qiqi hadn't bought much designer clothing during her several trips abroad—she had this plan all along. Song Yao felt quite ashamed; as a woman, she should have been more observant, yet Song Ziwen understood it more clearly.

“So…” Song Ziwen thought his sister cared too little about Qiqi. “Even though she said not to bring gifts, we can’t just show up empty-handed.” They owed Qiqi a significant monetary gift when their family celebrated milestones. Qiqi always claimed it was a congratulatory gift from her maternal uncle to his niece and nephew, but Qiqi had to be willing to give it. If it were Wang Rui, that brat would have swallowed those words immediately—that ungrateful wretch only expected to receive benefits but never intended to give any back. “Sister, you and Qiqi are close; what do you think we should give her?” Since his sister spent a lot of time with Qiqi, she might know what she desired.

“Give money?” Yang Jing suggested, rolling her eyes. When it came to a source of wealth, Yang Jing was never stingy. Furthermore, she was generous with gifts; the New Year’s money, clothes, and toys she bought for Niuniu were always top-tier. Relationships, after all, were maintained through reciprocal gestures.

Give money? “That’s too crass; Qiqi won't accept it.” Song Yao had already discussed this with the family. “Your brother-in-law and I decided that Qiqi isn't short on cash. What we need to do is make our domestic industries flourish. The more we earn, the more Qiqi profits from the dividends. Also, Ziwen, once Qiqi goes abroad, visiting the graves won't be easy. Don't forget the annual tomb sweeping.” Song Yao knew only a few people truly mattered to Qiqi.

If Song Yao hadn't reminded him, Song Ziwen would have boasted, “Have I ever missed sweeping the graves of my maternal uncles? I’ve gone more than once. And after Qiqi’s family moved here, Yang Jing often went over to help clean, burning incense every morning. When I have time, I chat with my maternal uncle too.” By the time his sister remembered, it would be too late.

Watching the smug Song Ziwen, Song Yao seriously considered pulling over to teach him a lesson about respecting elders and hierarchy.

After boasting for a moment, Song Ziwen wisely decided not to push his sister too far. “Oh, Sister, has your husband’s younger brother been contacting you recently?”

Song Yao hummed in response. Bad news certainly traveled fast. “It seems his wife wants a divorce. But then again, he’s almost thirty, owns no house or car, and his job is just coasting along. It’s only natural that woman would leave him.” Song Yao thought it was impressive the woman had held on this long. Perhaps she wanted to see if Gong Peixing would truly abandon his younger brother. Another reason might be that she hadn't secured a new partner, so she wouldn't divorce immediately. Now that she had the answer she sought and found a replacement, she naturally wanted to settle things and not waste her prime years.

“The family’s thinking is that one of the demolished houses from their hometown should be directly transferred to his brother, and they should continue collecting the rent from the other two. They can keep living where they are now.” Song Yao found the situation laughable; shameless people remain shameless no matter where they go, feeling entitled to everything. “They even claimed that if their younger brother ends up a bachelor, it’s the fault of the older brother and sister-in-law.”

“Your brother-in-law refused, and they caused a scene right outside Yang Jing’s shop,” Song Ziwen sneered. Truly ambitious; a grown man who couldn't control his wife, and on top of that, he made such demands. If he had any courage, why didn't he discipline his wife to see if she’d dare run away? But judging by his pathetic demeanor, he probably only dared to be aggressive toward her. “They probably thought because our business is established, we wouldn't dare do anything to him.”

Song Yao had prepared for a long battle with the Gong family. But after making several calls and realizing Gong Peixing showed no signs of yielding, they stopped calling her pager. Song Yao and Gong Peixing had initially wondered if the Gong family had given up their absurd notions after witnessing their firm stance. It turned out they hadn't abandoned the idea but were trying a different approach by targeting Song Ziwen. Realizing Song Ziwen was difficult to deal with and was out of town, they turned their attention to Yang Jing. Song Yao felt truly mortified that her in-laws’ issues were becoming such a public spectacle. “I guess I’m the focus of attention again,” Song Yao said wryly. But for a man to cheat and then expose it himself—that required immense nerve. Song Yao genuinely admired his audacity.

“Yang Jing, I’m so sorry for involving you…” Song Yao didn't know how to articulate it. It wasn't her family’s business, yet the other party was her own brother-in-law. Song Yao was utterly exhausted by those parasitic Gong family members. If she could choose people to vanish from Earth, she would choose the Gongs. Regardless, she owed a massive debt of gratitude. Song Yao decided she needed to have a serious talk with Gong Peixing when she returned. Weren't those people repeatedly crossing her boundaries? Now they knew how to threaten her family. Would they target the children next? The thought made Song Yao’s face pale. This possibility needed addressing; even a cornered dog will jump.

Yang Jing also felt a wave of post-fear. It was a blessing that the shop was in a bustling area; otherwise… But she certainly wouldn't express her fear to Song Yao. “I called the police directly and let them handle it,” Yang Jing stated simply, claiming she didn't know them and was unsure why they were causing trouble outside her shop. However, reporting it wouldn't achieve much—a few days’ detention at most. Yang Jing truly hoped the matter would be resolved quickly.

Although Song Yao hadn't dealt much with the police, she understood their typical conduct: a brief education and release. “Sell the house when we get back. Wait, no. Find the elders in the Gong family and see what they have to say.” Didn't they promise that as long as Gong Peixing’s parents occupied their house, they wouldn't cause trouble? Yet, so soon after the agreement was signed, they were already reneging. If they broke their word, Song Yao was capable of extreme measures.

“Exactly, Sister, you were too soft initially. I say pay them three months' rent, and if they refuse to leave, sell the house outright,” Song Ziwen agreed, furious. When he returned home and his wife recounted the events, the man was naturally incensed. “This time, you can’t just defer to your brother-in-law just because they share blood relations.”

The fact that his brother-in-law and his wife came over today—even if Song Ziwen hadn't explained every detail over the phone—meant he understood Yang Jing’s intention. Everyone showing up wasn't an intimidation tactic against Yang Jing but a deliberate assembly to discuss the cabinet factory with her thoroughly.

Since Qiqi was treating everyone to dinner tonight, Gong Peixing only bought some fruit. He had originally intended to book a room at a nearby hotel; although they had three rooms at home, they weren't suitable for hosting guests. But since his in-laws and Song Yao insisted, he remained silent and returned home to clean up thoroughly.

Gong Peixing and Song Wenbo had just discussed factory matters. Since his brother-in-law was returning to the hometown, the elder couple would accompany him. Gong Peixing wanted to seek more advice while his father-in-law was still present. Wang Damei, meanwhile, had been constantly reminding Wang Qiqi of this and that. After all, Qiqi was going abroad, and after completing her studies, she would move to the US. Wang Damei had always been supremely confident in her niece. She originally worried about how the girl would manage after her elder brother and his wife left, but unexpectedly, Qiqi navigated everything independently, settling her marriage and not having to worry about her studies. As for work, she wouldn't have to worry either.

Song Yao burst in furiously, shouting at Gong Peixing, “Gong Peixing, tell your parents to get out of our house…” Her anger had been escalating the entire drive back. Seeing Gong Peixing, she disregarded the presence of Tao Tao and exploded loudly.

Song Ziwen saw Song Yao immediately start cursing upon entering and knew she must be terribly angry. After nodding to his parents, he closed the door. Sigh, how enraged my sister must be to resort to such a loud tirade.

Song Yao’s words startled everyone present. They couldn't fathom why a simple trip to pick someone up resulted in such explosive rage. Their confused gazes shifted to Song Ziwen and Yang Jing; they must have said something to Song Yao on the way.

Song Ziwen offered a bitter smile and recounted what he had said in the car. “That’s why Sister is so furious.”

Gong Peixing hadn't expected his parents to do such a thing—accusing him of not caring enough, saying he and his wife lived too well and neglected their poor younger brother—without realizing his own actions. Gong Peixing was so angry he almost laughed. “Yaoyao, what do you plan to do?”

Lost in her rage, Song Yao didn't grasp Gong Peixing’s intent. She only knew he disagreed with her idea. “Just worry about your parents! Look at what good things they’ve done…”

Wang Qiqi noticed Song Yao’s agitation seemed excessive. Fearing what might be said next would be too hurtful, and sensing that Gong Peixing’s tone didn't suggest he sided with his parents, Wang Qiqi tugged Song Yao’s clothes. “Brother-in-law, my sister is your wife; you are their son. What should be done?” Wang Qiqi interjected first.

The tug from Wang Qiqi snapped Song Yao back to a moment of clarity. She then saw her own mother shaking her head toward her. She pursed her lips. Right, the justification was on her side; if she spoke too impulsively, Gong Peixing might feel she was being unreasonable.

Feeling her emotions stabilize slightly, Song Yao said, “I promised to treat your parents well, but look at what they’ve done! Yang Jing has no connection to them, yet simply because Song Ziwen is my brother and she is his wife, they stir up trouble. Will they target my parents and Niuniu next?”

Gong Peixing walked up to Song Yao and pulled her into an embrace. He knew that ever since she married him, Song Yao had been striving for their small family. Not only had the Gong family failed to help, but they had also continually been a hindrance. This time, they had even dragged an unrelated person into the mess. "Don't worry," he said, "I'll go back in a few days and discuss it again with the elders in the family." They had promised not to cause trouble again, but since they were stirring things up once more, it seemed their previous restraint had left a few avenues open for their relationship. However, honestly speaking, Gong Peixing truly didn't know what to do about those people in his family. Did he really have to resort to force every single time? Gong Peixing considered that those few individuals would never settle down and live honestly; they always had to scheme and plot for this or that.

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