C16 Marriage

The couple's brief interaction was noticed by everyone. Lingxi exchanged a knowing glance with Yilin, who subtly nodded in response. Her pale face quickly glanced at Yichen before she averted her eyes, then turned to Chuman with an innocent smile.

"I never realized you and Yichen were so close. He's never been this attentive to me," Yilin remarked.

Though everyone appeared engrossed in their meals, they were all secretly listening intently.

Chuman blushed, casting a shy glance at Yichen, her eyes sparkling with the joy of a newlywed.

"Chuman is my soulmate," Yichen said warmly. "I was bedridden for two years, and when she came into my life, she woke me from my slumber and tirelessly helped me recover. It's rare to find someone so special. If I don't treat my wife well, who would I turn to if she left me?" He gave Chuman a meaningful look, his expression softer than ever. Yet, Yilin felt a chill run down her spine. "I have to thank Yao Jinrong and my brother for going to such lengths to find me such a wonderful match."

Yichen's gaze fell on the woman adorned in jewels beside Chengwei. She gave him a timid smile and leaned closer to her husband.

"That's probably for the best."

"Now that you're awake, do you have any plans?" Jiang Chengwei asked, seemingly casually, but effectively diverting attention from his wife.

Jiang Lingxi shivered at his words, looking at him in disbelief, but Jiang Chengwei acted as if he didn't notice his son's gaze.

"Dad, do you mean..."

"Since you're awake, it's time to catch up on the business matters you've missed over the past two years. You and Lingxi can help me manage the company, and I can retire early and enjoy some time with Yao Jinrong," Jiang Chengwei laughed heartily, holding the hand of the petite woman beside him.

Jiang Yichen lowered his gaze, continuing to peel shrimp for Bai Chuman without a hint of emotion on his face, making it impossible for anyone to read his thoughts.

"My brother has worked hard these past few years. If I were to take over his efforts now, it might not sit well with others... Be careful while you eat. How are you feeling?" Jiang Yichen wiped the sauce from Bai Chuman's mouth with his finger, asking an unexpected question.

Everyone's eyes turned to Bai Chuman, who was eating heartily yet maintaining good manners. She looked up, cheeks puffed with food, and glanced around in confusion, spotting Jiang Yudong from that day, who was also watching her with curiosity.

She quickly composed herself, adjusted her expression, and slowly swallowed her food before respectfully addressing Mr. Jiang.

Chapter 8: Reclaiming

"Dad, Yichen's health still needs time to recover. It's really not suitable for him to overexert himself right now, and his rehabilitation will take a while longer," Bai Chuman said with a slightly embarrassed smile. "I'm not too clear on the business implications during this time. He's my husband, and I'm just concerned about his health."

As Bai Chuman spoke, Yichen's expression remained calm, but his eyes were full of affection, as if he would nod in agreement no matter how unreasonable her words might be.

Mr. Jiang looked at his eldest son, who had changed so much since waking up, unsure whether to sigh or feel resigned.

"A man should focus on building his career. A comfortable life is nice, but it can't last forever. Look at your brother; he's managed the family business so well these past two years, saving me a lot of trouble. Think it over carefully, and when you're ready, talk to me. I'll support you wholeheartedly."

Jiang Lingxi maintained a gentle smile, but under the table, his hand nearly bent the steel fork in frustration. He closed his eyes, listening quietly as his father dismissed his achievements in a few words, offering all the credit to Yichen. The disparity in treatment was glaringly obvious.

His actions caught the eye of Yudong, who was sitting in the same row. With a mocking smile, Yudong, known for his impatience and lack of subtlety, glanced at Yichen, who occasionally let out a light cough. He couldn't help but shake his head internally, wondering how there could be such a difference between them.

Yichen nodded, choosing to remain silent. His gaze never left Chuman. Once he saw she was almost done eating, he covered his mouth and coughed heavily a few more times. Seeing this, Chengwei quickly had someone help Yichen back to his room, worried that his frail eldest son might collapse again.

Yichen apologized with a nod to those present and left with Chuman. However, it was clear that tonight would be a sleepless night for the Jiang family...

​