C19 It Was Very Beneficial

Chiang Ci wore a faint, elusive smile as she glanced sideways at the mother and daughter huddled together, and then at Chiang Qiyuan, who sat silently on the couch.

"Today, my sister publicly clashed with Elder Ji twice at the banquet! First, she questioned his professional abilities; then, she thwarted his interest in taking me as his apprentice."

"Dad, do you think Elder Ji's reputation is more significant, or is it the Ding family's?" she asked with a feigned air of triumph, her voice sweet and revealing the delight of a little girl who had finally found her moment in the sun.

This daughter of his had changed!

The once timid, almost mute girl who couldn't hold her own was now standing up to her older sister, even daring to confront her. Perhaps she thought she had found a protector!

Still, this new attitude could be beneficial, but... if she believed this would free her from his control, she was too naive. Chiang Qiyuan studied Chiang Ci intently once more.

She had caught Elder Ji's attention by sheer luck and was now engaged to Young Master Shaang. This daughter needed to be handled with care.

Having the Shaang family as a backing was indeed advantageous for the Chiang family. Who knew when the old man arranged such a favorable engagement for Chiang Ci? This opportunity couldn't be squandered, and it might even help the Chiang family move beyond Z City and into the capital!

His expression softened, and with a gentle smile, he leaned forward slightly. "Your sister was indeed out of line. I'll speak to her later. It's late, Ci. You should get some rest."

Hiding her smugness, she obediently replied, "Dad, Peiyan said he has time to go with me to visit Grandpa. His grandpa specifically asked him to."

Chiang Qiyuan's smile deepened. It was good she remembered her grandfather: "No problem. Just let me know in advance when you want to go, and I'll make sure the care center takes good care of you. Don't worry, now go to sleep!"

Satisfied with the response, Chiang Ci strutted past Chiang Xinxin, pausing to observe her face. She whispered in her ear, "Does it hurt? I used to hurt more, you know!"

She stepped back and raised her voice a bit, "Put some ice on it, Sis. It won't be swollen tomorrow. Just some sisterly advice!" Then she headed upstairs without looking back.

Chiang Xinxin, furious, was about to reprimand her rebellious sister when Jian Yating pulled her back. She gestured towards Chiang Qiyuan with her mouth, signaling her to look.

Chiang Qiyuan watched them with an amused expression. His gaze made Xinxin shiver, and she quickly retreated behind Jian Yating.

He then looked up at his younger daughter's retreating figure, a glint of satisfaction in his eyes.

After closing the door behind her, she rubbed her left hand. That slap would leave a mark for a few days. She opened the window, letting the starlight spill across the small desk. The cool night breeze swept away the stuffy air, and she took a deep breath, calming the anger that simmered inside her. The show was just beginning, and she intended to reclaim everything owed to her.

From her purse, she pulled out a small pouch containing the white jade bracelet she received as a reward today. A smirk played on her lips; the evening had been quite fruitful. As soon as she held the bracelet, her ring emitted a gentle warmth, a reminder from the Artifact Spirit that a Spirit Soul was nearby.

​