Chapter 33 Ruo Tang Is a Frank Child (Bug Fix)

Chapter 33 Ruo Tang Is a Frank Kid (Edits)

Cai Ji seemed to realize he had spoken out of turn. "S-sorry about that, I shouldn’t have interrupted your conversation with the class monitor."

Jiang Ruotang quickly replied, "Not at all—go ahead and say more. And Cai Cai, your eyes sparkle when you talk about these things."

Cai Ji shyly rubbed the tip of his nose.

Jiang Ruotang tilted his head. "Why are you only eating sliced bread?"

"I... wasn’t hungry at lunch."

Jiang Ruotang didn’t press further. It was probably because of that blond-haired guy again. But since Cai Ji hadn’t brought up his family issues or shown any intention to confide, Jiang Ruotang knew not to push.

He returned to his seat, dug into his backpack, and pulled out two mushroom-beef sausages, placing them on Cai Ji’s desk.

"White bread makes your blood sugar crash fast. You’ll probably be ravenous by first period. Better eat some protein."

Cai Ji paused, then murmured, "Thanks."

"Hey, do either of you know any cloud tech companies about to go public?"

Unexpectedly, Lu Guifan and Cai Ji answered in unison: "Aoxiang Technology."

Jiang Ruotang’s eyes lit up. Aoxiang Technology—he knew it! In the future, Aoxiang’s search engine would become one of the top three, providing technical support for domestic smartphones like Xiaolan, along with GPS navigation and more. It was practically the king of cloud technology!

"When’s the IPO?"

Cai Ji had the more precise answer: "Lottery subscription opens the day after tomorrow!"

"Thanks!"

Thank God he’d talked to Lu Guifan and Cai Ji—otherwise, he might’ve missed out on a fortune!

Jiang Ruotang took a deep breath, grateful to fate for letting him reincarnate in an era where smart technology was booming overnight.

With so many opportunities, he’d completely failed to seize them—especially in his past life. His grandfather had left him a fat inheritance, but he’d recklessly plowed it all into Lin Chengdong’s garbage project, bleeding dry. A classic case of fumbling the bag.

If only he’d been a little more rational, a little more forward-thinking—whether it was smartphones like Xiaolan or cloud tech like Aoxiang Technology, either could’ve doubled his assets. Even if Jiang Huaiyuan had been sucked in by Lin Chengdong, he wouldn’t have been left high and dry...

If regret came in pills, Jiang Ruotang would’ve built up a tolerance by now.

Just then, Lin Lu and Bai Yingchuan returned from lunch. Spotting Jiang Ruotang dead serious browsing the web, Lin Lu couldn’t resist peeking.

"Huh? Aoxiang Technology? What’s that... a gaming company?" Lin Lu asked.

Jiang Ruotang played it cool. "Yeah, it came up when I searched for *Savage Continent*."

See, this was the difference between Lin Lu and Lu Guifan or Cai Ji.

Lin Lu was dead set on copying his father’s schmoozing and scheming. The father-son duo only saw their own little world.

Meanwhile, Lu Guifan and Cai Ji, though still students, were clued in on industry shifts and technological progress. They saw the bigger picture. They lacked capital, not capability.

Bai Yingchuan’s eyebrow shot up. Unlike Lin Lu, he’d actually heard of Aoxiang Technology.

Though related to gaming, *Savage Continent*’s cloud tech was supported by Ankael Era Technology Co., Ltd.—a foreign company.

"Ruo Tang, my dad and Bai Yue are collaborating on another drama. Ying Chuan’s doing a cameo too. Want your family to invest?"

Lin Lu was doing a two-for-one: showing Bai Yingchuan he was securing funding while testing the waters with the Jiang family. If Jiang Huaiyuan invested or directed, it’d mean Zhao Yunshu hadn’t uncovered anything at the company.

Jiang Ruotang seethed inside. In his past life, wasn’t this how the Lin father-son duo bled him dry?

The will hadn’t been executed yet. Jiang Ruotang remembered it was during senior year when Lin Lu would again cry poor, saying Director Jiang was busy, and Bai Yue and Bai Yingchuan needed support—leading him to impulsively clean him out. Now, hearing Lin Lu’s words again, he realized it was all laying the trap.

Sorry, but that pie’s laced. Keep it for yourself.

Meanwhile, Bai Yingchuan was searching Aoxiang Technology on his phone. Hearing Lin Lu’s pitch, he frowned and said coldly, "Lin Lu, whether to take on a project should be Director Jiang’s call. Don’t whisper in Ruo Tang’s ear just because you’re friends. If the investment fails or the film flops, you won’t even stay tight."

Jiang Ruotang froze. In his past life, hadn’t Bai Yingchuan stayed silent?

Why was he unhappy about Lin Lu securing funding for his mother’s drama?

Lin Lu was equally baffled, staring at Bai Yingchuan in confusion. Why would Bai Yingchuan oppose the Jiangs joining the project?

Zhao Zhangfeng, who’d returned to his seat unnoticed, suddenly spoke up: "Bai Yue’s last film, *Long Clouds, Setting Sun*, didn’t even break even. Not that it was her fault—her acting was solid. The problem was Lin Chengdong as producer. Weak director, weak script, weak effects. Most of the budget either vanished or lined someone’s pockets."

Lin Lu turned around, uncharacteristically furious. "You—"

Jiang Ruotang was stunned. "Damn... Zhao Zhangfeng, you’ve got guts."

Zhao Zhangfeng shot him a look. "If you dare tell your dad to invest in Lin Chengdong’s project, I’ll beat you until you learn your lesson."

Jiang Ruotang shook his head like a bobblehead. "I won’t! I absolutely won’t!"

Lin Lu couldn’t swallow his anger. "Zhao Zhangfeng—that’s slander!"

Zhao Zhangfeng shrugged. "Just repeating what I read online. Want the links? Your dad can sue them all—might even score some compensation for defamation! Perfect for funding the project."

Jiang Ruotang was floored. Was Zhao Zhangfeng’s mouth running on cheat codes?

Lin Lu’s eyes reddened. The surrounding classmates side-eyed him, their pitying looks making it seem like Zhao Zhangfeng had dragged him.

Bai Yingchuan gripped Lin Lu’s shoulder and said calmly, "No matter how upset you are, you can’t silence criticism. The best rebuttal is for your dad to drop a hit next time."

Lin Lu finally lowered his head and fell silent.

Jiang Ruotang swore Bai Yingchuan was throwing shade at Lin Chengdong.

If Lin Chengdong could make something good, Jiang Ruotang might as well fly up and punch the sun!

That night, Jiang Ruotang headed straight to Jiang Huaiyuan’s study.

Jiang Huaiyuan assumed his son was there to discuss Lin Chengdong and Bai Yue’s new project. Instead, Jiang Ruotang pushed the upcoming Aoxiang Technology IPO, hoping his dad would invest.

Unsurprisingly, Jiang Huaiyuan only had eyes for film and TV. Most assets were managed by professionals, and the rest were company funds. To him, his son was just going through a phase—a few words would dissuade him.

Jiang Ruotang scowled.

Jiang Huaiyuan, surprised by his son’s persistence, humored him gently, "If you like that tech company so much, I’ll transfer you 500,000 to enter the lottery, okay?"

Jiang Ruotang gave him a blank stare. "Keep your half-mil for play money. I’ve seen bigger things."

He turned and left, leaving Jiang Huaiyuan stumped.

"Bigger things? What ‘bigger things’ has Tang Tang seen? Which movie?"

Jiang Ruotang’s logic was simple: if his dad invested more in Aoxiang Technology, there’d be less for Lin Chengdong to squander—leaving the Jiang family with some investments that grow legs.

Who knows what's going on with Jiang Huaiyuan? Same as always, he shuts out everything else and focuses solely on filmmaking.

Jiang Ruotang decided to have a serious talk with his "ally."

Speak of the devil, and he shall appear.

Just then, Zhao Yunshu walked upstairs holding a glass of juice. Seeing Jiang Ruotang’s gloomy expression, she smiled and asked, "What's wrong, Tang Tang? Did you quarrel with Chang Feng?"

"Not at all. Chang Feng is fine. It's Director Jiang—his only concern is making movies and he completely ignores how the world is changing or how technology impacts the entertainment industry."

"Oh?" Zhao Yunshu chuckled. "Then tell me about it. I'm listening."

Jiang Ruotang followed Zhao Yunshu into her study. Without hesitation, he drank her glass of diet green juice before summarizing the analysis Lu Guifan and Cai Ji had discussed at noon and conveying it to Zhao Yunshu.

He didn’t need to sound like an expert—he just needed Zhao Yunshu to take future trends seriously.

Sure enough, Zhao Yunshu, with her financial background, frowned while listening, clearly taking Jiang Ruotang's words to heart.

For now, she couldn't make any promises, but she patted his shoulder and said, "I'll look more into Aoxiang Technology. Even if the outside world is optimistic about it, we shouldn't act impulsively. Thanks for the advice, Tang Tang. Who knew you'd be more forward-thinking than us adults?"

Hearing this, Jiang Ruotang felt relieved. Zhao Yunshu was honest and wouldn’t flatter casually—if she said that, she truly meant it.

Feeling better, Jiang Ruotang left Zhao Yunshu’s room.

True enough, as soon as the study door closed, Zhao Yunshu made several calls to gather information about Aoxiang Technology. Whether contacting her seniors in investment banking or friends working in asset management at major corporations, everyone was bullish on Aoxiang Technology’s cloud computing potential.

But when it came to predicting how much potential cloud technology held in the future, no one could guarantee anything.

The next day at noon, while Zhao Yunshu was buying coffee at a café near her company, Zheng Huasheng, the senior she trusted most, called her.

Though currently between jobs, Zheng gave a thorough breakdown of Aoxiang Technology—clearly, he had been following it closely.

After hanging up, Zhao Yunshu was convinced. When she turned around, she saw Mu Xianqing smiling at her.

Coincidentally, Universe Pictures was holding a shareholders’ meeting today, and Mu Xianqing was likely attending on behalf of his father, Mu He.

"President Zhao, it seems you're also interested in Aoxiang Technology?"

Zhao Yunshu smiled. "Interest is one thing, but actually securing shares is another matter entirely."

Mu Xianqing grinned. "We have strategic allocation shares. If you want some, I can arrange it."

Zhao Yunshu was surprised. If the Mu family was involved in an investment, it was definitely promising and profitable.

So Jiang Ruotang’s idea really was ahead of the curve?

"Our liquid funds aren't large. Compared to other strategic investors, it might barely make a splash..."

"No problem. Whether it's five million or fifty million, I just want to owe Ruo Tang a favor. Please pass along my thanks to the young artist when you return."

"Hmm? So you were the one who told Ruo Tang about this investment?"

Mu Xianqing shook his head, looking slightly wronged. "No, we almost exclusively talk about art. He never wants to discuss money with me."

Zhao Yunshu laughed. "My mistake. It was actually Ruo Tang who insisted on investing in Aoxiang Technology. The kid spent quite some time talking to me in the study yesterday."

"Jiang Ruotang? He actually pays attention to these things?"

Mu Xianqing rubbed his chin, suddenly finding Jiang Ruotang increasingly intriguing.

Thanks to Mu Xianqing’s “gesture of goodwill,” Zhao Yunshu successfully persuaded Jiang Huaiyuan to invest twenty million yuan. When Jiang Ruotang heard the news, he took a deep breath.

This was the first time Jiang Huaiyuan had invested such a large sum outside of filmmaking. Jiang Ruotang was so nervous he could only reassure himself: *It’ll be okay. Even if the investment fails, at least it fulfills his wife and son’s wishes. If the money is gone, he can always earn it back by making more movies!*

Unexpectedly, Aoxiang Technology soared. Those unable to buy shares could only watch enviously.

Jiang Huaiyuan stared at the stock price, eyes nearly popping out of his head.

Regarding the successful investment, Zhao Yunshu and Jiang Ruotang sternly warned Jiang Huaiyuan not to mention it to anyone—especially Lin Chengdong.

Seeing their serious expressions, Jiang Huaiyuan swallowed hard. "I... I won’t say a word, especially not to Lin Chengdong."

Jiang Ruotang crossed his arms and nodded. "Good. If you do, you’ll kneel on the keyboard at home."

Zhao Yunshu frowned. "Kneel on the keyboard? Isn’t kneeling on durian shells trendy now?"

Jiang Ruotang scratched his head. Having been reborn ten years into the past, he deliberately tried to sound outdated by saying "keyboard," but Zhao Yunshu had countered him effortlessly.

"Fine, durian shells it is!"

Upon hearing this, Jiang Huaiyuan slumped his shoulders. These two were terrifying.

Jiang Ruotang also received an allotment—not huge, but enough to significantly boost his personal wealth.

That night, after Lu Guifan finished explaining a problem over voice chat, Jiang Ruotang hesitantly asked: *[Class President, I got an allotment for Aoxiang Technology.]*

Lu Guifan replied indifferently: *[Congratulations.]*

Jiang Ruotang swallowed and typed again: *[Can I top up your phone plan as thanks for helping me study and advising me on cloud tech investments? With more data, you can call me or send tutorial videos, and I can learn faster.]*

He was nervous—he didn’t want Lu Guifan to think he was trying to “support” him. This was genuine gratitude.

There was no reason for Lu Guifan to tutor him and cover his own phone bills.

What Jiang Ruotang didn’t know was that after hearing about his allotment, Lu Guifan had checked Aoxiang Technology’s stock price. Knowing the little money-hungry brat had profited handsomely, Lu Guifan’s lips curled unconsciously.

Lu Guifan replied: *[Sure, but if you don’t improve in the next monthly exam, I’ll refund the money. No free lunches.]*

Jiang Ruotang’s eyes widened as he reread the message multiple times.

"What? If I don’t improve, you’ll return the money? So to avoid wasting your phone credit, I *have* to improve?"

Wasn’t this forcing him to study hard, escape the bottom three exam rooms, and face a whole new world?

Jiang Ruotang wondered if Lu Guifan had figured him out—that he couldn’t bear to disappoint Lu Guifan. If Lu Guifan returned the money, Jiang Ruotang would drown in guilt.

Soon, another message arrived: *[If you chicken out, forget it.]*

Jiang Ruotang instantly imagined Lu Guifan’s expression—chin resting in hand, casually scrolling through his phone, gaze aloof from his intellectual high ground, saying lightly: *A little slacker like you wants to "sponsor" me with phone credit?*

In reality, Lu Guifan was sipping water from a small thermos, his other hand lightly tapping Jiang Ruotang’s profile picture. He seemed to sense Jiang Ruotang’s internal struggle, lips curving into a faint smile.

No sooner had he set the thermos down than a notification popped up—his phone had been credited with 200 yuan.

Then came Jiang Ruotang’s message: *[I’ll prove my improvement to you!]*

Lu Guifan read those words, unable to suppress a quiet chuckle as he lowered his head.

His slightly long bangs trembled slightly as he smiled.

Soon it was Zhao Yunshu's first birthday after marrying Jiang Huaiyuan.

Jiang Huaiyuan might not sense the undercurrents within Universe, but Jiang Ruotang knew this birthday was crucial for Zhao Yunshu—it would determine whether she could secure her position.

Jiang Huaiyuan had already reserved a restaurant and ordered flowers, planning to leave the two kids behind for an evening alone with Zhao Yunshu.

At noon, however, Wu Ning, the wife of Lin Chengdong, hosted and invited several wives of Universe’s shareholders under the pretense of celebrating Zhao Yunshu’s birthday at a private club. In reality, it was a gathering of wives aligned with Lin Chengdong’s interests, meant to put subtle pressure on Zhao Yunshu.

Zhao Yunshu endured an awkward meal with them, listening as they chatted about limited-edition bags, custom jewelry from luxury brands, high-end sports cars… It felt like another world. Unable to contribute to the conversation, she could only put on a smile while eating.

“Oh, Yun Shu, today is your first birthday after marrying Director Jiang! Didn’t he get you anything?” Wu Ning asked with fake curiosity.

“He’s taking me out for dinner tonight. We’re married—if he buys me a gift, it’s still the family’s money.”

“Yun Shu, that’s the wrong way to think. If your husband’s money isn’t spent on you, it has nothing to do with you. After all, this family will belong to Ruo Tang in the future. If you don’t get anything now, you’ll get even less later.”

Wu Ning’s words were blatantly meant to drive a wedge between Zhao Yunshu and Jiang Ruotang.

Zhao Yunshu knew exactly what she was doing, but with so many of them against her, she could only respond with a polite smile.

“I heard you even brought up signing a prenup? Don’t be foolish. Whether you sign or not, you and Jiang Ruotang will never truly be family. He’s not your own son—there’s always that divide. You should focus more on Zhang Feng’s future!”

Hearing them talk about Jiang Ruotang like this, Zhao Yunshu couldn’t take it anymore. She abruptly set her wine glass down on the table, and the others fell silent, turning to look at her.

“Ruo Tang is an honest child—he never hides his feelings, whether love or hate. It was Ruo Tang who planned Huaiyuan’s proposal to me. He designed and picked the furniture for my study. He even cares more about Zhang Feng’s future than I do, his own mother. He’s a good son and a good brother. Yes, Ruo Tang and I aren’t blood-related, but our hearts are connected.”

Her words created an awkward silence over the room. Wu Ning quickly tried to diffuse the tension. “No wonder Director Jiang chose Yun Shu—she’s kind-hearted and doesn’t ask for much, just wants a family.”

Zhao Yunshu rolled her eyes internally. *So now I’m just a live-in servant serving the Jiang family?*

Finally, the meal ended, and Zhao Yunshu thought she could go home and rest.

But then the wives suggested going shopping at Haicheng MALL, a luxury shopping center in Sheng City known for stocking the latest collections from international brands—a “holy ground” for these women to show off.

Zhao Yunshu really didn’t want to go. *Wouldn’t a nap be better than this?*

—*You people have way too much free time.*

“Oh, Yun Shu, you really should learn about these brands. Otherwise, when you attend those galas with Director Jiang, you won’t even know what to compliment when you see what others are wearing!”

“Exactly! A woman must treat herself well. Look at my husband—he gives me a limited-edition bag every birthday. And this bracelet? Also from him!”

Dragged along, Zhao Yunshu entered Haicheng MALL, her head throbbing as they bragged about their husbands and birthday gifts.

Compared to them, she was a fish out of water.

At one point, after Wu Ning bought a bag from a luxury store, she handed it directly to Zhao Yunshu, claiming she wanted her to “get a feel for luxury.” The sales assistant even mistook Zhao Yunshu for Wu Ning’s secretary, handing her the other wives’ shopping bags to carry.

It was infuriating. Zhao Yunshu considered herself patient, but she was tempted to chuck those bags off the roof and watch them shatter.

Still, these were the wives of company shareholders. Unable to assess their individual importance, she didn’t want to cause trouble for Jiang Huaiyuan and just had to grin and bear it.

As they were walking into another luxury store, Zhao Yunshu saw two familiar faces.

“Zhang Feng? Ruo Tang? What brings you two here?”