Chapter 154 – A Gradually Complete Li Ruyu

Chapter 154 - A Gradually Complete Li Ruyu

News of Gu Shaoqian's donation to the nursing home for publicity was widespread and relentless.

Even while Shen Qing sat in the car, she could hear the emotionally charged and overly melodramatic interview on Infinity Radio, broadcast by the female host.

Brother Biao noticed that the boss's attention was drawn to the radio, so he turned up the volume a bit.

After listening attentively for a while, Shen Qing found it amusing how the female host was lavishing praise on Gu Shaoqian without reserve, as if he were walking on air.

No wonder the Gu family held such power and influence, she mused. Even a less favored second son like Gu Shaoqian, when attempting to regain his reputation, could count on the Hong Kong media's enthusiastic support.

"Turn the volume down a little," Shen Qing requested, refocusing her attention on her contract. The contract for the bell tower land had become increasingly appealing to her with each passing moment. It marked another milestone in her career, and she was now so elated that she felt like screaming with joy.

She also wished to share this delightful news with Qin Shili immediately, but alas, there were no mobile phones or WeChat in this era. Otherwise, she could have sent him a picture of the signed contract right away.

With a suppressed excitement, Shen Qing pored over the contract, mentally reviewing the development plans for the Clock Tower property in her mind.

On the radio, the news had transitioned from the fawning female host's voice to the triumphant tones of Gu Shaoqian.

This clearly demonstrates how satisfied Gu Shaoqian is with his public relations strategy for his charitable endeavors.

Far away in Country Chao, Su Qilan was also attentive to Gu Shaoqian's every move, even though she hadn't accompanied him back. Having painstakingly managed her affairs in Hong Kong for so long, she had also bribed the servants of the Gu household to call her daily with reports on Gu Shaoqian's activities.

Though unable to catch glimpses of Gu Shaoqian's triumphant news in Country Chao, Su Qilan devised a clever solution. She had the housekeeper place the telephone receiver beside the radio, using the landline as a conduit to facilitate real-time listening.

Upon hearing Gu Shaoqian's voice brimming with satisfaction, a contented smile also graced Su Qilan's face.

She always knew that Gu Shaoqian would become Gu Chengfu's most beloved son, destined to inherit the Gu family's legacy.

In her previous life, she hid in the shadows, envying and resenting Shen Qing for her ability to marry Gu Shaoqian as a wealthy aristocrat's wife. In this life, she has finally seized the man she desired most for herself.

Not only a man, Su Qilan aims to take something else from Shen Qing.

A malevolent glint flashed in Su Qilan's eyes. Why should Shen Qing be the one favored by the heavens? She, Su Qilan, was also someone blessed by the divine.

Now, Su Qilan feels that she is drawing ever closer to her success, and soon she will attain her objective.

It was indeed a challenge for Su Qilan, in the depth of night in Country Chao, to ensure she would be awakened in time to catch the news of Gu Shaoqian's triumphant return to Hong Kong, prompting her to set three separate alarms just for this purpose.

Reluctantly, due to the approximately seven-hour time difference between Xiangjiang and Country Chao, she had no choice but to go to such lengths to stay informed about every move Gu Shaoqian made.

After the news on the radio concluded, the domestic servant of the Gu family, fearing discovery, hastily hung up the phone.

Meanwhile, Su Qilan forced herself to stay awake, resisting the pull of sleep. She had to calculate the time precisely so that she could call Gu Shaoqian the very moment he returned home.

Given that she had painstakingly won over Gu Shaoqian, Su Qilan was also acutely afraid that while she was away, someone else might equally cunningly attempt to snatch him away.

An invitation from Hong Kong arrived promptly at the lavish mansion of Su Qilan's fiercest romantic rival, Shao Jingwen, nestled in the heart of Country Chao...

Unaware of Shen Qing's insightful understanding of her actions, Su Qilan was enduring the wait, counting down the moments until she could call Gu Shaoqian.

Simultaneously, Shen Qing found herself arriving at Qin Shilang's opulent mansion atop Victoria Peak.

"Miss Shen, Sir is attending to business in his study. Please wait here for a moment," the butler politely ushered Shen Qing into the living room and placed a cup of fruit tea in front of her, knowing her preferences.

Shen Qing waited in the living room for nearly half an hour before she heard some commotion coming from the study on the second floor.

Looking up, she saw Qin Shili and a few Caucasian men exit the study. Apparently, the discussion hadn't gone well, as both Qin Shili's and the foreigners' expressions were grim.

"One more thing, Mr. Qin, I think you should seriously consider my proposal," one of the Caucasians said to Qin Shili with a hint of sarcasm as they descended the stairs. "Hong Kong is now ours, and your actions won't benefit you."

"Hong Kong will eventually return," Qin Shili replied coldly. "Everything I do is for its better development. I have no objections to your cooperation with the Gu family, but I won't be joining you."

Qin Shili's displeasure was audible to Shen Qing. "Mr. Gu and I have already reached an agreement on this matter."

"I hope you won't regret it," the Caucasian said, his tone frosty when he realized Qin Shili was resolute.

As he walked down the stairs, the foreigner suddenly froze, his gaze lingering on Shen Qing. With a smirk, he said to Qin Shili, "Miss Tina has a high opinion of you. I hope you won't disappoint her kindness."

Then, he glanced at Shen Qing sideways and commented, "How can a woman like her compare to Miss Tina?"

Not only was he speculating about Shen Qing and Qin Shili's relationship, but he was also belittling Shen Qing?

Why are these fair-skinned foreigners so arrogant?

Shen Qing rose from the sofa with a warm smile. "Sir, you're mistaken. Mr. Qin and I are legitimate friends. Please don't misrepresent our relationship, nor compare me to others."

The white foreigner clearly hadn't anticipated Shen Qing's firmness and was momentarily taken aback, instinctively murmuring an 'I'm sorry'.

But Shen Qing knew that beneath their seemingly polite exterior, these foreigners were conceited and arrogant. His apology wasn't an admission of fault but rather an unconscious habit.

Shen Qing continued, "I believe Mr. Qin outshines you in every way - he's more sincere, handsome, and capable. No wonder Miss Tina prefers him over you."

"What did you say?" The white-skinned foreigner was evidently angered.

Shen Qing maintained her cheerful smile. "My apologies, I just couldn't help but compare you to others after hearing you compare me with someone else. Are you upset?"

Imitating the foreigner's previous gesture, Shen Qing shrugged helplessly and said, "I'm sorry."

After all, who didn't know how to belittle others?

It was at this moment that Qin Shilang addressed Shen Qing, "Miss Shen, thank you for admiring me so much."

"No need to thank me, you're naturally more outstanding and handsome than others."

Shen Qing and Qin Shili sang in unison, leaving the white-skinned foreigner fuming with anger, so much so that Shen Qing could almost visualize flames shooting out from his head.

Qin Shili watched the foreigner storm off with a cold gaze. Only then did he turn his attention to Shen Qing, "You don't seem to mind making enemies."

"What if I offend them? What if I don't?" Shen Qing scoffed, "These foreigners can't be given an inch."

Qin Shili chuckled, agreeing with Shen Qing's perspective. If they didn't stand their ground, these foreigners would take advantage.

The harder your stance, the more they might fear you.

Feeling that Shen Qing's arrival was timely, Qin Shili's gloomy mood dissipated. He sat down on the sofa as well. Having just spent nearly twenty hours negotiating with Gu Chengfu the previous day and now dealing with those foreigners, his nerves had been on edge.

Seeing Shen Qing's cheerful demeanor, Qin Shili couldn't help but smile, "You look in high spirits, it seems like things are progressing smoothly?"

"Not just smoothly," Shen Qing's grin widened, "It's already successfully settled."

With a triumphant smile, Shen Qing placed the freshly printed contract in front of Qin Shilang. "Look, it's all settled. The land under the Tsim Sha Tsui Clock Tower now belongs to me."

Qin Shilang's eyes lit up as he took the contract, his handsome face radiating delight. "Impressive, Miss Shen."

"Impressive" was a colloquial Cantonese term meaning "amazing."

Indeed, Qin Shilang hadn't expected that Shen Qing would secure the clock tower property within such a short time. As he perused the contract, his usually reserved and aloof dark gaze was filled with disbelief.

The agreement was well-drafted, with every clause clearly stated, and the entire process had been executed flawlessly.

Upon seeing the contract for the purchase of the clock tower land, Qin Shilang felt the exhaustion from his recent hustle and bustle vanish, leaving him invigorated.

"Miss Shen, how did you manage this?" Qin Shilang couldn't help but admire Shen Qing's capabilities. Initially, seeking her help had been a last-ditch effort.

He found it remarkable that Shen Qing, who had only been in Hong Kong for half a year, could navigate through various social circles and establish her own company. To Qin Shilang, Shen Qing seemed almost supernatural.

Moreover, there was her alter ego, the Temple Street Oracle, whose predictions seemed eerily accurate. This was why Qin Shilang had sought collaboration with her.

Now, it turned out that the Temple Street Oracle truly was divine, capable of creating miracles in just a few days. Even someone as experienced and well-connected as Qin Shilang, who often dealt with the elite, found it astonishing.

Qin Shili truly admired Miss Shen more and more.

But only Shen Qing knew the truth behind the seemingly quick acquisition of the land. In reality, it was the fruit of her nearly half a year of planning and secret investigations that spanned the same duration.

From the moment she rode Jian Yao's motorbike to Tsim Sha Tsui's derelict building for the first time, and when she stood atop it, overlooking the entire Victoria Harbour, the plan to seize the Tsim Sha Tsui property had germinated in her heart, along with her ambition.

Over those six months, she had gathered numerous pieces of information from Octopus Card, including the interpersonal relationships within the railway board and the dire situation they faced as they teetered on the brink of collapse. She had meticulously investigated every detail, and mentally rehearsed the mature acquisition strategy countless times before achieving today's outcome.

What Qin Shili saw was the swift and elegant manner in which Shen Qing acquired the land; he was unaware of the tireless efforts and sweat that Shen Qing had poured into it for months on end. Those bitter struggles and hard work had transformed into glittering success, and as the boss, Shen Qing could finally hold her head high with pride and joy.

Who wouldn't feel proud and elated when their own sweat turned into triumph?

"Come on, let's go. I'll treat you tonight. We'll have a nice meal at the Victoria Hotel," Shen Qing said cheerfully, patting Qin Shili's arm. "You've worked hard too, let's relax properly."

Qin Shili had been brought up to keep his emotions, be it happiness, sadness, anger, or joy, concealed within. Unlike Shen Qing, who wore her feelings on her sleeve and could freely express her emotions.

Qin Shilang observed the ecstatic Shen Qing, and his pent-up emotions instantly surged. "Alright, let's enjoy a good meal, but it'll be on me."

Qin Shilang's face lit up, radiating with delight in his eyes. "Miss Shen, you've given me tremendous help. I insist on treating you to this meal."

The acquisition of the Clock Tower site by Shen Qing had fired the opening salvo for the development of Tsim Sha Tsui.

No matter how much trouble the foreigners caused him or the obstacles they threw at his career path, the development of Tsim Sha Tsui was like an arrow already shot; nothing could stop it now.

At this very moment, Qin Shilang felt a surge of boundless ambition. When he shared a smile with Shen Qing, both of them seemed to emit a blinding golden glow.

If not for the fact that the matter was still under wraps, Shen Qing would have genuinely wanted to invite Brother Yao, Niu Sufen, Sister Jie... all of them to celebrate at the Victoria Hotel.

Although she could only share today's triumph with Qin Shilang, Shen Qing vowed inwardly that in the future, these relatives who had helped her would not only share in her successes but also reap the rewards.

Boss Shen never made empty promises. During her financially strained times, Brother Yao and the others had lined up to lend her money.

They had enabled the once-poor Shen Qing to gather a staggering sum of over eighty-four million dollars within a single day. This allowed her to splurge on purchasing the land, and Shen Qing held this act of kindness close to her heart.

Boss Shen was an emotionally invested and loyal person. It was precisely because of her deep sense of loyalty and affection that she had gathered around her a group of similarly devoted individuals.

After all, people are naturally drawn to one another.

The Victoria Hotel was the most luxurious in Hong Kong, usually requiring advance reservations for a visit.

However, with Qin Shili's status, they could simply show up for a meal without prior booking.

Qin Shili had arranged for the best spot in the Victoria Hotel. From their vantage point, they could encompass the entire panorama of Hong Kong.

Unfortunately, it was still early, and they couldn't witness the illuminated night view of Victoria Harbor. Nevertheless, the daytime panoramic view was also splendid, allowing them to see even the coastline.

This was also Hong Kong in 1970, a time before excessive development had taken hold.

Otherwise, with the towering skyscrapers of later generations, no matter how expansive the view, the coastline would be out of sight.

Shen Qing and Qin Shilang indulged in a delightful feast at the Victoria Hotel, their spirits lifted, leaving worries and work behind. They eagerly awaited the descent of night, looking forward to the captivating nocturnal view of Victoria Harbour.

When Qin Shili tasted food, he was exceptionally focused and disinclined to speak. Shen Qing watched him savor the dessert with elegant gestures and was suddenly reminded of an online exhibit she had come across in the future featuring Qin Shili's relics.

Among them were exquisite bowls and tiny forks for desserts, not just one set. At that time, many people online had commented that this serious and dashing senior was a charming dessert enthusiast. ?

Now, seeing a character from history books sitting before her, enjoying dessert, Shen Qing truly couldn't hold back her laughter.

Qin Shili looked at her briefly but remained focused on his dessert. Though he didn't speak, the satisfaction in his eyes was plain to see for anyone.

Shen Qing laughed again. Qin Shili, with deliberation, swallowed the sweet morsel in his mouth and asked, "What are you laughing about?"

Just as Shen Qing was about to respond, a figure appeared by her side.

Both she and Qin Shili lifted their heads simultaneously to see Gu Shaoqian, who should have been putting on an act at the nursing home, standing right before them.

Well, he finished his performance that quickly?

Shen Qing instinctively glanced at the time on her wristwatch—it was six in the evening. Indeed, it was about the right duration.

Perhaps because he was headed to the nursing home for his act, Gu Shaoqian was dressed rather casually.

From head to toe, he wore high-end custom attire and had even sprayed cologne. Standing before Shen Qing, he smelled even more fragrant than the decorative flowers on the table.

"Second Master Gu, is there something?"

This question was posed by Qin Shilang, for he had noticed that Gu Shaoqian's gaze lingered persistently on Shen Qing. As Shen Qing was his companion for the evening, it was his duty to intervene and help her out of any predicament.

Gu Shaoqian was actually unsure why he found himself standing here.

He had come to Victoria to treat the journalists who were interviewing him, along with a few elder acquaintances with whom he shared a closer relationship.

Yet, the moment Gu Shaoqian stepped into the Victoria Hotel, his eyes immediately fell upon Shen Qing.

Given how dazzling Shen Qing truly was, be it her temperament or appearance, she seemed to radiate light merely by sitting there.

How could Gu Shaoqian fail to notice Shen Qing? Before his brain could process it, he had already stood beside her.

Now, both Shen Qing and Qin Shilai were staring at him with distant, unfamiliar expressions, leaving him feeling somewhat awkward and resentful.

"I'm here to host a dinner for our elders and friends from the press," Gu Shaoqian replied, his eyes still on Shen Qing. "I didn't expect to run into you... both here."

Shen Qing ignored Gu Shaoqian's words, maintaining an aloof and unapproachable demeanor.

Qin Shilai was aware that Shen Qing had never been particularly fond of the supernatural pair, Gu Shaoqian and Su Qilan. Nevertheless, out of courtesy since they were acquainted, he offered Gu Shaoqian some face. "In that case, I won't disturb Young Master Gu further."

"Miss Shen, still wish to enjoy the night view?" Qin Shilang asked with a smile, "I know of another spot that offers a great view as well."

Protecting his companion from distress and displeasure had been ingrained in Qin Shilang's upbringing since childhood, and he had always carried out this principle admirably.

"Sure, let's change locations to appreciate the night view," Shen Qing nodded with a smile.

A heavy sense of humiliation enveloped Gu Shaoqian. He believed that Shen Qing and Qin Shilang were ignoring him due to his tarnished reputation, no longer the respected Young Master Gu he once was.

However, it never occurred to Gu Shaoqian that neither Qin Shilang nor Shen Qing had ever been on the same wavelength as him from the start.

Both Qin Shilang and Shen Qing held steadfast to their principles, knowing what was acceptable and what wasn't. They would never compromise their values or harm others for personal gain.

On the other hand, Gu Shaoqian constantly wavered, always choosing the option most beneficial to himself.

Could it be that Gu Shaoqian truly had no knowledge of Su Qilan's past actions towards Shen Qing? Impossible. Back then, Shen Qing's beauty was her only allure. Even if Gu Shaoqian had been captivated, he saw her as nothing more than a decorative canary in a gilded cage within high society.

The kindness Gu Shaoqian had shown Shen Qing before was merely a facade to display his magnanimity. Now, his kindness stemmed from recognizing Shen Qing's superiority over Su Qilan.

Many times, Gu Shaoqian found it increasingly difficult to compare Su Qilan to Shen Qing. Yet, Su Qilan would always manage to bring him new benefits when he was at his wit's end.

A man like Gu Shaoqian, who always craved more, believed he deserved the best. Thus, his attitude towards Shen Qing remained ambiguous and repulsive.

Shen Qing despised Gu Shaoqian, a sophisticated egoist, and loathed his actions. Scoundrels and vixens should be locked away, not allowed to wreak havoc on others.

When she saw Gu Shaoqian blocking her path, Shen Qing couldn't help rolling her eyes. "Move aside."

Gu Shaoqian felt a burning sensation on his face. She was undeniably beautiful with a gentle voice, so why did she always speak to him in such an indifferent manner?

Shen Qing didn't care about Gu Shaoqian's thoughts, as she had long detached herself from him. In her heart, even a stray dog was more likable than Gu Shaoqian.

As Shen Qing walked arm-in-arm with Qin Shili, Gu Shaoqian's gaze involuntarily followed them.

The reporters and the elderly present looked at Gu Shaoqian with subtle expressions, wondering who the young woman accompanying Qin Shili was. How could she so brazenly humiliate Young Master Gu?

An elderly man, supported by another person, glanced at Shen Qing. Upon seeing her face, his cane clattered to the ground as he stared at her in disbelief. "It's you..."

The middle-aged man appeared weak and unsteady, almost losing his balance as he approached Shen Qing.

Gu Shaoqian quickly regained his composure and rushed over, just in time to catch the middle-aged man as he was about to fall.

However, the man ignored Gu Shaoqian and instead fixed his gaze intently on Shen Qing. "It's you, Li Ruyu?"

Shen Qing immediately stopped in her tracks. She turned around and looked at the frail middle-aged man with a probing expression. "Do you know my mother?"

"The daughter of Li Ruyu?" The man was surprised, then he studied Shen Qing carefully and suddenly smiled. "You've grown so much, you really resemble your mother. When I saw you just now, I thought it was her."

"Who are you?"

Shen Qing looked at the unfamiliar middle-aged man. There was no information about him in the records Brother Yao had given her about the nursing home.

Yet, he knew Li Ruyu?

Shen Qing walked back to the man's side. "Sir, were you close to my mother?"

"I almost married your mother back then," the middle-aged man suddenly chuckled.

"You're the eldest son of the Ge family?" Shen Qing recalled that Shen Yimin had mentioned how the eldest son of the Ge family wanted to take Li Ruyu as a concubine years ago.

"Did you know me?" The head of the Ge family asked with a smile. "Did your mother tell you?"

"No, my mother passed away during childbirth," Shen Qing replied, keeping a close eye on the elder Ge's expression. She realized that he was unaware of Li Ruyu's demise.

Upon hearing that Li Ruyu had long since died, he was first in disbelief, then his eyes reddened as he asked, "Didn't Shen Yimin say she was doing well in the mainland? When Shen Yimin and Yu Feifei came to Hong Kong, I even offered to help bring your mother here..."

"Well, you were deceived," Shen Qing said coldly. "My mother died in childbirth, and it was Shen Yimin and Yu Feifei who caused her death."

Her icy tone caught the attention of Qin Shilang and Gu Shaoqian.

By revealing this in public, Shen Qing hoped to learn more about Li Ruyu from this elder Ge. To her, Li Ruyu was like a fragmented puzzle—her background, character, and past were all pieced together through bits and pieces of information from others.