Chapter 1, A Glimpse of Surprise.

After saying that sentence, he fell into silence. Tang Ninghui felt that the balcony was such a secluded place, and it was improper for a man and a woman to be alone. She slightly bowed and said, "Mr. Lian, I won't disturb you anymore. Please enjoy yourself."

Shortly after, we arrived at Tang's house on Suzhou-Hangzhou Road.

You bastard! Damn you! Get out! Get out of my and Ninghui's yard!

At that time, it was the evening, and the sunset was as gorgeous as blood, casting a rouge-colored twilight on Zeng's pale and cold face, giving it a warm hue.

Settled the account, Zhou Lu rudely stuffed the perfume and handkerchief into her hands: "Take it. Tomorrow is your birthday, consider it as my birthday gift to you." Tang Ninghui looked blankly at the things in her hand for a while, then gently said, "Zhou Lu, thank you."

Tang Ninghui raised her eyes and finally looked at him directly: "Zeng Liantong, do you think this is possible?"

Finally, his eyes glanced back and forth on Zhou Lu, then he calmly said, "Miss Zhou, I have been tolerating your care for Xiao Zhi over the past few years, and I don't want to argue with you, but please restrain yourself." As soon as he spoke, Zhou Lu was furious, gritting her teeth as she said, "Xiao Zhi... Zeng Liantong, how dare you even mention Xiao Zhi to me... Xiao Zhi has nothing to do with a scoundrel like you!"

Tang Ninghui pursed her lips and said with a sigh, "My eldest brother's nature is not bad..."

Zhou Lu came back and threw everything in the yard with a clatter. Then, unable to bear it any longer, she stomped angrily to the door and cursed loudly at the black car parked nearby, saying, "Zeng Liantong, you bastard! Do you think you can buy us off with these things? It's not yet dark, so get out of here and go daydream!"

Tang Ninghui said, "Zeng Liantong, it's impossible. I will never give you the laughter." She stood quietly, speaking as if telling someone else's story, completely unrelated to her. Her face resembled an ancient well that had existed for a thousand years, not even a ripple would appear even if the wind blew.

Zhou Lu rolled her eyes and looked speechless, saying, "Your elder brother is just a good-for-nothing who is lazy and indulgent. He gambles and visits prostitutes, and even if your family had mountains of gold and silver, he would still squander it all. Not to mention that your family doesn't even have any wealth! Your mother can't control him and only cares about calculating your expenses. Tang Ninghui, wake up, you will be ruined by them sooner or later."

Tang Ninghui held her breath and looked at him with resentment. If looks could kill, the person in front of her would have been torn apart by her gaze long ago.

Tang Ninghui suddenly felt embarrassed and nodded to Zhou Lu and Liantong, saying, "Thank you for sending me back. I'll go in first." Before turning around, Tang Ninghui caught a glimpse of Liantong standing under the stone steps, silently watching her.

Zhou Lu chuckled and pointed at her nose, "I know, you chatterbox. You actually compared me to rotten meat. Do you want to die?" Then she grabbed her arm, "Let's go, those tickets are just sitting there, it's a waste not to use them." Tang Ninghui had no choice but to follow her into the restaurant.

He asked her to dance a dance, and then disappeared without a trace.

However, Tang Ninghui still worries: "Every time I see Mayor Wang looking at you, it's like a fly buzzing around rotten meat. You really need to be careful and not be careless. My mother used to say that no matter how capable and talented a girl is, it's better to find a proper home."

Tang Ninghui hid behind the pillar in a daze, her heart throbbing violently. After the numbness subsided, she felt a sharp and dense pain.

Tang Ninghui sighed quietly and said, "You know very well that our family is going through a difficult time. My elder brother is not capable enough and was lured by outsiders to gamble away so many shops. Now, my sister-in-law is pregnant again..."

Zhou Lu said: "No matter what difficulties your family may have, it's best to break away early, even if it means escaping by the skin of your teeth."

Zhou Lu waved her hand uncomfortably and said, "Since you always help me with things, I want to make it clear that this is not a freebie. You, in the future, will still have to help me with things."

The man turned his head slowly, stunning Tang Ninghui with just one glance. She couldn't believe that there could be such a breathtakingly handsome man in the world. Since she was young, she had heard the old lady say countless times, "When a woman is too beautiful, she becomes like a demon." But what about when a man is beautiful? Tang Ninghui didn't know, but she knew that when the man's eyes were fixed on her, her chest felt almost suffocated.

Zhou Lu poured wine into two small celadon cups and handed one to Tang Ninghui: "Ninghui, tomorrow is your birthday. You should drink this cup. Happy birthday! Come, let's have a toast." Although Tang Ninghui was not good at drinking, she could handle this small cup. She smiled and lifted the cup, saying, "Thank you." The fragrant but bitter liquid slid down her throat, hot and spicy, making her want to cough.

After hearing what was said, General Ma finally lifted his gaze and looked the other person up and down. Seeing him standing there calmly without any fear, General Ma couldn't quite figure out where he came from. So, he spoke with a slightly more polite tone, "Who are you?"

Tang Ninghui watched the children catching up from the yellow van, feeling sorry for them. She took out a bill from her purse and instructed, "Driver, please stop the car. Help me give this to those children."

Although the words make sense, Tang Ninghui always smiles lightly and says, "As long as he is healthy and safe, it's enough. Wealth and glory are like frost on grass in the end."

A short, stout, and vulgar man in military uniform walked out with his head held high and hands behind his back, followed by several armed guards. He coldly snorted, "If I ask you to toast, you should drink, not be punished."

With a calm demeanor, he smiled dismissively, casually brushing off the dust on his sleeve. He said seriously, "However, in my opinion, there must be some misunderstanding in this matter. Everyone in this restaurant knows that Captain Ma is a hero of our Liu Army. The incident just now must have been caused by one of the captain's subordinates getting drunk and causing trouble. I must say something that may not be appropriate, but if a subordinate makes a mistake, the captain must not tolerate it. If this continues, it will not only harm Captain Ma's reputation, but also be detrimental to our Liu Army. Everyone in this restaurant knows that Captain Ma is a hero of our Liu Army. The incident just now must have been caused by one of the captain's subordinates getting drunk and causing trouble. I must say something that may not be appropriate, but if a subordinate makes a mistake, the captain must not tolerate it. If this continues, it will not only harm Captain Ma's reputation, but also be detrimental to our Liu Army. Captain Ma, what do you say, yes or no?"

The General Ma stared at Lieutenant Liang with sharp eyes, and after a moment, he coldly smiled, "Indeed, that's true." As soon as he finished speaking, there were two "slap" sounds. A soldier next to him had already been slapped hard by General Ma twice. "Damn it, you little brat, aren't you going to apologize? If you dare to cause trouble again, relying on your father's power to oppress the people, watch me shoot you dead!"

But I didn't expect to see him again here. ... And he... ... Even he remembers clearly that their first meeting was more than half a month ago. ... ... I don't know what happened, but Tang Ninghui felt a sweet feeling welling up from her heart.

Following the words of the old lady, Tang Ninghui understood that the old lady was not very satisfied with the Wang family. After all, the entire Ningzhou city knows that the fourth son of the Wang family is not only lecherous, but also has a strong will. He has already lost three wives at the age of just over thirty.

Zhou Lu said, "Bring a small pot of osmanthus wine." Seeing Tang Ninghui about to speak, he smiled and said, "I know you don't drink, can't I drink alone?"

Tang Ninghui's heart suddenly skipped a beat. On that day, the two of them danced on the balcony of the Yuan Mansion. When the music stopped, he gentlemanly moved his hand away and said with a smile, "Thank you. I have to go now, goodbye."

She saw several cars parked in front of the Western-style restaurant, and he was getting out of one of the cars in the middle, surrounded by imposing military attendants in full gear.

The door creaked shut in front of the two. Mrs. Lu's voice still came through the door: "Miss Four, it's not that I, as a servant, am indecisive. The madam of the house is ill, and the young mistress is also pregnant. I'm busy inside and still have to take care of things outside. You don't help out on regular days, and you're out there getting drunk..." The rest of the words gradually became indistinct as they drifted away. Mrs. Lu's voice still came through the door: "Miss Four, it's not that I, as a servant, am indecisive. The madam of the house is ill, and the young mistress is also pregnant. I'm busy inside and still have to take care of things outside. You don't help out on regular days, and you're out there getting drunk..." The rest of the words gradually became indistinct as they drifted away.

Tang Ninghui smiled: "It's because your taste buds are too picky. I think shredded chicken is delicious and tender, it's really good." Zhou Lu held a celadon wine glass and took a small sip: "What is the most delicious thing you have ever eaten? In my life, the most delicious thing I've eaten is a plain steamed bun."

Zhou Lu shook her head in silence, showing a "you are beyond saving" expression, then turned to pick a lace handkerchief. She picked a handkerchief, took a bottle of perfume, and handed it to the boss: "Wrap them together."

Knowing that Zhou Lu meant well, Tang Ninghui sighed softly after a long pause, "Zhou Lu, you don't know that every family has their own problems."

Tang Ninghui met Zeng Liantong under these circumstances.

Zhou Lu pulled her and whispered, "It's okay. Mayor Wang gave me a few free tickets." Tang Ninghui stared at Zhou Lu and said with emphasis, "How could you take his things? You know he has ulterior motives for getting close to you."

In this world, perhaps only Zhou Lu in front of her remembers her birthday. Tang Ninghui remembered her mother Zhu Biqing, who had passed away many years ago, and couldn't help but feel a pang in her eyes. Her birthday was her mother's day of suffering. She understood what Zhou Lu said, who in the family really treated her well? But she was born and raised in the Tang family, and the ancestral hall of the Tang family still enshrined her deceased parents. How could she leave her family so easily as Zhou Lu said? If she really had to leave, perhaps the only way would be to get married. But she was born and raised in the Tang family, and the ancestral hall of the Tang family still enshrined her deceased parents. How could she leave her family so easily as Zhou Lu said? If she really had to leave, perhaps the only way would be to get married.

Without knowing why she was laughing, he tugged at her sleeve and said, "Mother."

The little fish supported her father, tears in her eyes, and bowed to Liantong again before the two of them stumbled away.

A girl wearing a blue and white shirt and pants rushed up to help the man.

Zhou Luying smiled gently and said, "Mr. Lian, you are too modest. Look at how many people were on the second floor just now, and only you were able to step forward. This courage alone surpasses others." Lian waved his hand and said, "Miss Zhou, you flatter me. I really feel unworthy."

Together with dodging to the side, supporting the little fish to stand up, resolutely refusing to accept such a great gift: "Leave quickly, leaving late is worse than leaving early."

When describing such a scene, ancient people would say, "Love at first sight."

Zhou Lu's mouth is the most talented. Because she couldn't stand Tang Ninghui's mother, Tang Lushi, she would endlessly criticize her. Tang Ninghui dared not say a word on the side, fearing that any remark would trigger Zhou Lu's accusations. But it was all in vain. After Zhou Lu finished speaking, she angrily turned her blame towards Tang Ninghui, resenting her for being so powerless: "You, just wait to be sold." Her jade-like, tender fingers poked her forehead, "If only you knew how to resist a little, how could your mother dare to control you like this?" But it was all in vain. After Zhou Lu finished speaking, she angrily turned her blame towards her, resenting her for being so powerless: "You, just wait to be sold." Her jade-like, tender fingers poked her forehead, "If only you knew how to resist a little, how could your mother dare to control you like this?"

Tang Ninghui hurriedly asked, "Zhou Lu, what's wrong with you? You seem so strange today." Zhou Lu smiled and her eyes flickered as if nothing had happened, saying, "Why are you looking at me like that? Just eating vegetables." Then she said seriously, "Ninghui, you'd better not look at men like this. Even as a woman, I can't stand your pitiful appearance."

Tang Ninghui stared blankly at his receding figure. After a long, long time, she realized that she had forgotten to say goodbye to him.

After that "uh" sound ended hoarsely, there were several collision sounds, followed by a burst of "crackling" sounds of bowls and plates breaking in the upstairs corridor.

Tang Ninghui didn't know what was wrong with herself. She looked at him with a faint smile and suddenly called out, "Tang Ninghui, my name is Tang Ninghui." In fact, after saying it, she regretted it, annoyed at herself for not being reserved. Would he think she was shameless and henceforth look down on her like that?

Together with the Tao: "Miss Zhou is too polite. I am just pretending to be brave. If they really use their guns, I have no way to deal with it. Fortunately, the military officer Ma who was just transferred to Ningzhou for garrison duty is still new here. Even if officials and generals have no shame behind their backs, they still care about their reputation in front of others. That's why they were temporarily persuaded by my words and let the father and daughter go. I asked them to leave as soon as possible because I was afraid that the Ma family would wake up and come back to find them. By then, even if the girl is a fairy, she will be hard to save." Fortunately, the military officer Ma who was just transferred to Ningzhou for garrison duty is still new here. Even if officials and generals have no shame behind their backs, they still care about their reputation in front of others. That's why they were temporarily persuaded by my words and let the father and daughter go. I asked them to leave as soon as possible because I was afraid that the Ma family would wake up and come back to find them. By then, even if the girl is a fairy, she will be hard to save.

Zhou Lu is a smart person who is alert and attentive. She could tell what Tang Ninghui was thinking just by looking at her expression. Zhou Lu spoke up, "The gift I gave you cannot be casually passed on to others."

Lin's mother said someone sent it. That person also said, if asked, just say the phrase "连同" and Miss Tang will understand.

The sky is vast, the earth is vast, and I was born in troubled times. Tang Ninghui never thought that she would have to say goodbye to him forever in this lifetime.

Tang Ninghui just smiled, tasting the strong bitterness on her tongue. It turned out that he had not lied to her about one thing - his real name was Zeng Liantong, but he had not told her before.

Zeng Liantong, the current influential figure in the Northwest, is the son of Zeng Wanshan, ranking seventh among his siblings, and is known as Zeng Qishao.

Tang Ninghui had been accustomed to enduring at home, and when she worked in the secretary's office of the municipal government, she was also very disciplined and obedient, doing whatever her superiors instructed. Zhou Lu, on the other hand, was a socialite, beautiful and eloquent, even catching the eye of the mayor. Usually, when there were unpleasant tasks, Zhou Lu would mostly pass them on to Tang Ninghui.

After a short while, a variety of hot and cold dishes were brought to the table. The waiter nodded and said, "Please take your time, ladies. Would you like a pot of wine? We have aged plum wine and freshly brewed osmanthus wine in our restaurant. They are both sweet and suitable for ladies to enjoy."

Then came a "bang" sound followed by the voice of a little girl crying "wuwu ah ah". The male voice that was begging for mercy earlier now raised its volume and said, "General, spare this girl. General... uh..."

This person seems to be him, yet at the same time, completely not him.

Tang Ninghui didn't know how long she had been standing there absentmindedly, but in the first second of regaining consciousness, she instinctively pulled Xiao Zhi and hid behind a big pillar.

Yes, she has witnessed his methods.

At this moment, inside the private room of the restaurant, Zhou Lu handed her a few chopsticks of food and said, "What are you thinking about, so lost in thought? Come, quickly taste and see how it tastes." Tang Ninghui picked up some shredded chicken and took a bite. Zhou Lu immediately commented, "It's just average. It goes to show that seeing something with your own eyes is worth more than hearing about it a hundred times, most likely eight or nine out of ten times."

Zhou Lu and Tang Ninghui exchanged a glance and arrived at the door of a private room. They saw a thin man wearing a coarse cloth gown lying on the ground with his face up, clearly showing signs of injury. The upper floor was filled with elegant private rooms, and many people in the surrounding private rooms, like them, were poking their heads out to see what was happening.

Tang Ninghui's face turned red, holding her hand, smiling pleasingly: "Zhou Lu, our friendship will not change because of a small bottle of perfume, right?" Zhou Lu looked at her with pity and sighed helplessly: "Silly Ninghui, although I often feel lonely by myself, when I see your so-called family, your so-called aunt, I would rather..." She seemed to remember something, turned her face aside, and didn't continue speaking. Helplessly sighing: "Silly Ninghui, although I often feel lonely by myself, when I see your so-called family, your so-called aunt, I would rather..." She seemed to remember something, turned her face aside, and didn't continue speaking.

Zhou Lu sat down and ordered, "Bring me some of your signature dishes to get your chefs motivated to cook well for me." As she spoke, she handed over a ticket given to her by Wang Xiaoxiang. The waiter saw the seal on it and knew that the person was of high status. He quickly nodded and smiled, becoming several times more attentive than before, saying, "Okay. I'll ask our head chef to personally prepare it. Please wait a moment, ladies."

It turns out it's true. That person just now is really him.

Tang Ninghui said, "Zhou Lu, you still have me. I am your good friend, right?" Zhou Lu smiled absentmindedly and replied, "Yes."

Not one's own, can never belong to oneself, then it is better not to have had it, so there will be no pain of loss.

Tang Ninghui said, "Thank you, Mr. Lian." The taste of this glass of wine is unexpectedly different from the previous ones, sweet and mellow, as if brewed from honey.

General Ma stared fiercely at the soldiers of the platoon, then waved his hand and shouted loudly, "Let's go!" The sound of boots stomping "tita tita" gradually faded away as they went downstairs.

The bodyguards around General Ma quickly drew their guns when they saw the situation. The atmosphere in the tavern instantly became tense with the smell of bloodshed.

On the second day, there were still many gifts. Aunt Lin said that the utility room was already too full to hold any more.

He stood there, with a slight smile on his lips, looking so elegant and noble, as handsome as jade. "Ning Hui, regarding the matter of Xiao Zhi, I have two plans and I would like you to give me your opinion. The first one is for you to come back with me, so that we can all be happy together. Xiao Zhi is the grandson of the Zeng family, and he has been raised like a precious gem since he was young. The second plan is that if you don't want to come back with me, it's also fine. Just hand over Xiao Zhi to me, and I won't treat you unfairly, nor will I mistreat Xiao Zhi." Xiao Zhi is the grandson of the Zeng family, and he has been raised like a precious gem since he was young. The second plan is that if you don't want to come back with me, it's also fine. Just hand over Xiao Zhi to me, and I won't treat you unfairly, nor will I mistreat Xiao Zhi."

At this moment, a melodious and graceful sound of the Huqin came from the adjacent private room. A clear voice started singing a little tune with a playful tone. Zhou Lu followed the melancholic melody and hummed a couple of lines, "Oh dear, oh dear... a heart as hard as iron..." It's unknown what sorrowful matter she recalled, as her eyes suddenly turned red.

Together, their gazes fell on Tang Ninghui, who smiled faintly and said, "It's my honor. Then I respectfully comply."

Zhou Lu always brings a smile when dining at such expensive places every month, which inevitably makes Tang Ninghui feel sorry for her. However, Zhou Lu always tells her, "We can only rely on our smiles in the future. Taking him to wealthy places since he was young, exposing him to different scenes, will help cultivate his calm and composed nature, and a graceful temperament. In this world, fortunes can change overnight, and no one can predict tomorrow. But one's character and demeanor can be cherished for a lifetime. Over the past few years, I have also seen the children of influential families in various situations, and I believe the only admirable quality they possess is their calmness and composure in the face of familiarity and tranquility."

At that time, he was standing on the balcony, and she neither came nor left. After a few seconds, he smiled at her and said, "Hello, I am Liantong."

The driver of the yellow minibus said "Alright," and then swiftly drove them forward, with the minibus following closely behind.

It's probably been too long, coupled with Tang Ninghui's constant hustle and bustle for a living, rarely thinking about Liantong. Even if she does think about it, the face is also blurry. When she saw him just now, she was momentarily stunned, as if the world had stopped spinning: Is this person really Liantong? The face and figure are exactly the same as Liantong's, but the noble aura emanating from his every move is clearly not him.

After a meal, we had a great conversation with her and Zhou Lu.

Although the Zeng family had five children, apart from him, all the others were girls. Perhaps it was the result of the Zeng family's years of territorial disputes and continuous wars that they have not yet expanded their family.

Together with the Tao: "Only I am here. Just now, when there was a commotion, I had just taken my seat. As a newcomer, I heard that Baiwei Zhai is a century-old restaurant in Ningzhou. The signature dish, Baiwei Chicken, is renowned for its fragrance that spreads for miles. That's why I came here today, specifically to taste it."

Xiao has always been a well-behaved and obedient child. After listening to her explanation, she cleverly replied, "Mom, Xiao understands. Xiao won't play."

The attentive runner led them to the elegant private room on the second floor, saying "Ladies, please come this way. This cozy room can be quiet and peaceful with the windows closed, or you can enjoy the view of two streets below by opening them. It's perfect for the two of you."

He came slowly and gracefully, looking down on everyone with every move he made.

Music started playing in the hall at some unknown time, trickling in bit by bit.

Pausing in his tracks, he turned to look back, a smile playing at the corner of his mouth: "Hello, Miss Tang, I am delighted to see you here today. Until we meet again."

The chaos and noise from all around, the tram bells, the cries of vendors, the conversations, everything suddenly receded from her side at that moment.

She has been melancholic for a long time because of the words "goodbye". The fate between people is so elusive and elusive, perhaps she will never see him again in her lifetime.

Tang Ninghui sighed and said, "What should we do? The father and daughter look so pitiful." Zhou Lu lowered her voice and said, "I know this guy in military uniform. He is a captain under Liu Zongliang. He won a battle last month, and Liu Zongliang rewarded him with a lot of money and promoted him. Look at his arrogant and conceited appearance, he's almost lost his sense of direction."

Yes, she knows what he wants, he wants to laugh.

This child, from birth until now, including the future path of life, is destined to be a child without a father's love or care. In the future, when he grows up, I wonder if he will blame her for selfishly bringing him into this world.

On the day of farewell, which happened to be the payday at the municipal government, Zhou Lu would immediately make plans to go shopping as soon as she received her salary. This day was no exception.

On the second day, when Tang Ninghui returned from the school with a smile, the small room was filled with all kinds of gifts, from satin and silk, bird's nest and ginseng, to honey Buddha's lip balm, and various exotic toys, the quantity of which could rival the variety store at the alley mouth, but the variety store could not have such high-end goods.

When she first met him, it was at a dance party held at the Yuan family's residence. The matriarch asked her to attend with her elder brother and sister-in-law. To put it nicely, it was to broaden her horizons; to put it bluntly, it was to have her brother and sister-in-law show her off, and then wait for the best marriage proposal for the Tang family. If that didn't work out, and if someone with power and influence took a liking to her and could be of help to the Tang family, the matriarch wouldn't mind sending her to be a concubine.

Ordinary people dare not even breathe heavily when they see these armed military officers. Today, someone actually dared to stand up for this father and daughter who were singing. This person must either have extraordinary courage or powerful backing. He even called himself "Captain Ma" without hesitation, indicating that he is aware of his own identity. Since he knows his own identity and still dares to speak out, it seems that he has some powerful connections.

His index finger slid slowly across her cheek, finally resting on her lips. Being so close, his breath lightly and heavily brushed against her face, with a faintly ambiguous and unclear implication: "Tang Ninghui, have you experienced my methods before?"

Zhou Lu once said that if she saw him again, she would definitely find someone to kill him. However, they later found out from a photo in the newspaper that his full name was Zeng Liantong.

Together with a slow pace, he walked towards the father and daughter who were singing and handed them a silver dollar, saying, "Take your father to see a doctor." The little girl burst into tears and repeatedly thanked him, "Thank you, sir, thank you, sir." The man on the ground had a painful expression and repeatedly kowtowed, "Thank you for saving our lives today, sir. If it weren't for you, our little fish would have been ruined. We, father and daughter, will never forget your great kindness."

It was clear at first listen that it was Madam Lu, the dowry of the eldest daughter-in-law. Because she was the dowry of the eldest daughter-in-law, she had always been domineering in the Tang family. Since Tang Ninghui could remember, this Madam Lu had never shown a good face to her and her mother. After Tang's father passed away, the eldest brother, Tang Shaocheng, became unrestrained like the Monkey King coming out from under the Five-Finger Mountain. No one could restrain him anymore. He gambled and visited brothels, even losing several shops owned by the family. Madam Lu was so angry that she was bedridden for a while. In such a situation, most of the servants in the Tang family were dismissed, leaving only three servants to support the crumbling reputation of the Tang family. After Tang's father passed away, the eldest brother, Tang Shaocheng, became unrestrained like the Monkey King coming out from under the Five-Finger Mountain. No one could restrain him anymore. He gambled and visited brothels, even losing several shops owned by the family. Madam Lu was so angry that she was bedridden for a while. In such a situation, most of the servants in the Tang family were dismissed, leaving only three servants to support the crumbling reputation of the Tang family.

The origin of laughter lies in the age of playfulness. When children see so many toys, they naturally become very happy and start exploring them by looking and touching. However, after hearing Tang Ninghui's words, the child looked up with his cute deer-like eyes and asked in confusion, "Mom, can't I play with laughter?"

Zhou Lu also developed a slightly better impression of him, and praised, "Mr. Lian, admirable, admirable." As she spoke, she changed the subject, "Mr. Lian, how many people are in your private room?"

Tang Ninghui's hands and feet reacted with coldness. She pulled the corners of her mouth and tried to smile, gently stroking the soft and tender face of the one who was laughing. She lowered her eyes and said, "Let's go. Aunt Lu must be waiting anxiously."

The singing girl appeared to be around thirteen or fourteen years old, with a fair and innocent face that was quite endearing. At this moment, her pitifully pale face was covered in tears as she repeatedly called out, "Father, father, please say something, what happened in the end? Father..."

Zhou Lu pulled her hand and got off the car, smiling and saying, "Anyway, you won't have anything to eat when you go back. I don't know what to eat alone. Let's have a feast tonight and celebrate your birthday at the same time."

As expected, when we arrived at the restaurant, as soon as Xizai pushed open the door to the private room, Zhou Lu, dressed in a green silk cheongsam, exclaimed in a brittle voice, "Why are you so late? Look at what time it is! It's okay if you're hungry, but if our precious Xiaozhi is hungry, I can't bear it."

Together with still lightly written: "I am which General Ma, you don't need to know. It is just that General Ma's behavior of bullying the weak in public is truly contrary to the usual teachings of General Liu, and it has also damaged the reputation of our Liu army." With these indifferent words, General Ma was momentarily rendered speechless. His face darkened, his eyes narrowed, and in a fit of anger and shame, he made a gesture to draw his gun: "Who are you after all? How dare you meddle in my business! If you don't speak, don't blame me for being impolite!"

With a slight lift of the corner of his mouth, he revealed a smile that was ambiguous in meaning. His tone remained calm and composed as he said, "Miss Zhou, whether or not this laughter has anything to do with my family, the Zengs, is for us to decide." With that, he turned and walked towards the closed west wing room.

When the three of them left the restaurant, it was already dark. They stopped two yellow cabs and asked, "Where do you live? We'll take you home." Zhou Lu supported Tang Ninghui's arm and said, "Send Ninghui first. Master, go to Tang Mansion on Suhang Road."

There is a weak male voice on the side, always apologizing: "Yes, yes, it's not her fault, General, please forgive us. Both of us rely on her voice to make a living. We dare not touch a drop of alcohol on weekdays, for fear of damaging her voice. Please understand, General. Or, shall we let Xiao Lian sing a couple of songs to apologize to the General?"

That military officer is aggressive: "Today, as the commander, I must make this girl drink this bottle of wine. Whether you want to drink or not, you have to drink!"

When facing Xiao Zhi with a smile, Zhou Lu seemed to perform a magic trick, softening her voice like a swallow's whisper: "Come, Xiao Zhi, Aunt Lu wants to hug you. I haven't seen you for a few days, and I miss you very much." Zhou Lu stole a few kisses on Xiao Zhi's face, "It's only been a few days, and we've grown closer again, Xiao Zhi. Look, Aunt Lu can hardly hold you anymore."

Thinking about getting married, Tang Ninghui's heart suddenly sank. A few days ago, the old lady said that the rice merchant Wang's family had sent a matchmaker to propose marriage to their fourth son. After the old lady finished speaking to her, she glanced at Tang Ninghui and added indifferently, "The old lady wants to ask for your opinion. There is a saying that a son is not controlled by his mother. Besides, you are not my own daughter. If you agree rashly, others will not know the truth and will think that I, as the old lady, am forcing you into this marriage. "

With a slight lift of her head at this moment, Tang Ninghui smiled faintly towards the nearby place and nodded in greeting, saying, "So Miss Tang is also here."

Tang Ninghui told Zhou Lu about the Wang family's proposal, and Zhou Lu raised her delicate eyebrows and sneered, "Your mother-in-law never had any interest in that young master Wang. If she did, wouldn't she hate to tie you up and send you to him? But she speaks so beautifully. She has a hundred tricks in her heart, but not one is used for good. Clearly, she is a wicked woman, yet she still wants to pretend to be virtuous and well-behaved. I can't stand this kind of person the most."

Tang Ninghui was not convinced and said, "How could I be pitiful?" Zhou Lu said, "You always say that there are people buzzing around me like flies, but in fact, you are the one who should be most careful. There are more people with ill intentions towards you than towards me. I think that Wang Wenjin is one of them."

Zhou Lu pointed at his nose and said, "Zeng Liantong, how dare you show up in front of Ning Hui after what you've done."

On this day, she held the hand of Laughing and casually turned her head in front of the foreign firm's entrance, unexpectedly catching sight of a familiar figure. Tang Ninghui was suddenly shaken, her body frozen as if struck by lightning, unable to move.

Suddenly, a faint voice sounded: "So it's Captain Ma of Liu Jun. We really didn't recognize Mount Tai." Tang Ninghui took a peek through the half-opened door and was stunned. The man stood sideways, with facial features as sharp as if they were carved by a knife, handsome as jade, and was none other than Lian Tong.

Zhou Lu's face suddenly changed. She took the crystal high-footed wine glass and drank several sips of red wine. Finally, she said, "He has been in Ningzhou for more than a month." As a person by Wang Xiaoxiang's side, she had already known about the arrival of the Seventh Young Master of the Zeng family in Ningzhou.

Walking down a street, Zhou Lu caught sight of Baiwei Zhai on the side of the street and instructed, "Master, let's stop here." Tang Ninghui asked curiously, "What's wrong? Aren't we going home?"

That night, Tang Ninghui coaxed Laughing to sleep. Under the cold light, she gazed quietly at Laughing, feeling a sudden heartache as if being twisted.

But Zhou Lu is not without conscience. Tang Ninghui helped her, and she remembered each and every one of them. Over time, Zhou Lu regarded her as a good friend. The two of them have become inseparable, spending every day together. Now, in the secretary's office, anyone who bullies Tang Ninghui is equivalent to provoking Zhou Lu. Seeing Zhou Lu's stance, others dare not casually bully Tang Ninghui anymore.

But there is no regret medicine in this world.

Tang Ninghui glanced at the magnificent and splendid Baiweizhai. This is a well-known old shop in Ningzhou. It is said that the dishes here are very expensive, and a banquet can cost as much as several months' expenses for an ordinary person.

With a wave of his hand, he said, "It's just a small gesture." After a pause, as if remembering something, he hurriedly added, "It would be best for you to leave Ningzhou as soon as possible." The man had already understood and nodded, saying, "Yes, yes, thank you for the reminder, Your Excellency. My daughter and I will pack up and leave here." After speaking, he pulled his daughter and said, "Xiaoyu, why haven't you kowtowed to Your Excellency yet?"

Zhou Lu said, "You're silly. No matter what, he is still our superior. If he gives me something, can I not take it? Don't worry, I know my limits. If he likes to touch my hand, let him touch it. It's not like I'm losing anything. Besides, the salary at the municipal government is so high. If I get fired, where else can I find such a good job? Although we are just secretaries in the secretariat, when we go out, people look up to us when they hear that we work for the municipal government. Who wouldn't give us a little face?"

As soon as the words fell, a servant came out from the front seat and respectfully opened the rear door. Zeng stepped out of the car gracefully.

Time cannot be turned back, and everything cannot be undone.

Tang Ninghui's face turned red, feeling his gaze burning, as if there was a small sun in the depths of his eyes, warm and shimmering. She dared not meet his gaze, lowered her eyes and said, "Mr. Lian, hello." Zhou Lu lightly nudged Tang Ninghui with her elbow and whispered, "Do you know him?" Tang Ninghui murmured, "Hmm."

That dance became the sweetest and most beautiful scenery in Tang Ninghui's dreams every night.

Tang Ninghui put down her chopsticks and was quite curious: "Why is it a white steamed bun?" Zhou Lu played with her wine glass, seeming to be lost in the past, even her tone was low and erratic: "Because at that time, I was hiding and had nothing to eat for three days. I felt like I was going to starve to death, but suddenly a kind person gave me a white steamed bun. Do you think it's something that I will never forget in my life, and that I will always feel that this white steamed bun is the most delicious thing I have ever eaten?"

Zhou Lu turned her head and stared at Liantong, asking, "Mr. Lian, aren't you afraid of Captain Ma at all?" Liantong calmly replied, "I am not interested in holding an official position or seeking wealth, so why should I be afraid of him? If I can't stay in Ningzhou City, I will go somewhere else. In this vast world, there must be a place for me." As soon as these words were spoken, Tang Ninghui couldn't help but look at him with admiration, feeling that such a man was truly rare in the world.

That night, the moonlight was faint. Like pearl powder, it scattered on his distinct and handsome profile. The light and shadow flickered. Tang Ninghui only glanced at it for a few moments, and felt her breath almost suffocating.

Tang Ninghui finally understood why he repeatedly urged the father and daughter who were singing to leave as soon as possible.

The garden of the Yuan Mansion, with its varied levels, has a unique charm. It seemed as if she was talking to someone, yet also speaking to herself. Tang Ninghui stood on the balcony, gazing into the distance under the lights, faintly discerning the small bridge, flowing water, and pavilions.

Together with just a smile, he bowed to her with his hands behind his back, and gentlemanly extended his right hand: "I wonder if I could have the honor of inviting you to dance?" Tang Ninghui was momentarily stunned, then slowly reached out her hand. When his large hand held hers, it felt as if an electric current passed through, then flowed through her veins, straight to her heart.

Two people came out of the foreign firm carrying things, and a group of ragged little beggars surrounded them: "Ladies, please be kind. Ladies, we haven't eaten anything all day. Please have mercy on us."

The door creaked open, revealing the face of a middle-aged maid. Upon seeing Tang Ninghui, the maid's expression turned extremely impatient. "My Fourth Miss, you finally came back. The old lady has been asking about you countless times!"

Zhou Lu suddenly poked her and said, "Are you giving your salary to your stepmother again? Don't be silly. That mean woman will never truly treat you well. She's just trying to please you now for your salary and to find a good marriage prospect in her eyes for you. You're so foolish to be bossed around by her."

Those people's appraising gazes made Tang Ninghui feel extremely uncomfortable. Later, she found an excuse and secretly went to the balcony to breathe a sigh of relief. But she didn't expect that someone had already beaten her to it.

She was really blind at first, how could she...

The large and bright black eyes of laughter looked at her, as pure and transparent as crystal, faintly with anticipation. Tang Ninghui bent down and patiently explained to him, "These things are not ours, they are temporarily borrowed by someone to put in our house. In a few days, the person will come to take them away, so we cannot touch or play with them. Xiaozhi, do you understand?"

That father-daughter duo who were singing for money had already been scared shivering by them. Seeing the guard bowing, they only shrank to the side, not daring to say a word.

If time could turn back, she would definitely not pass by the entrance of that Western restaurant.

The guard covered his hot face and was momentarily stunned. However, these guards were used to flattery and had keen eyesight, so they quickly realized their mistake and hurriedly nodded and bowed, saying, "Yes, it's my fault. I won't dare to do it again. I apologize to this young lady and this gentleman." After speaking, he walked up to the singing girl and bowed to apologize, saying, "I'm sorry, I was confused. Sir, young lady, you are generous adults, please forgive me this time." He hurriedly nodded and bowed, saying, "Yes, it's my fault. I won't dare to do it again. I apologize to this young lady and this gentleman." After speaking, he walked up to the singing girl and bowed to apologize, saying, "I'm sorry, I was confused. Sir, young lady, you are generous adults, please forgive me this time."

Tang Ninghui is also a modern church school. Now she works in the municipal government and is seen as a modern woman by many people. She took a deep breath, calmed her racing heart, nodded, and said gracefully, "Hello, Mr. Lian."

With a slight smile, Lian nodded towards Zhou Lu and said, "Miss Zhou, it's a pleasure to meet you." Zhou Lu gracefully replied, "Mr. Lian, I'm also pleased to meet you, especially after witnessing your assistance to the singing girl. It would be wonderful if our country and society had more people like you, who are enthusiastic and have a sense of justice."

Once stood leisurely in the yard without saying a word. It was also difficult for Zhou Lu, wasting half a day's saliva.

Zhou Lu pretended to cough and said, "Ning Hui, who is this?"

When Tang Ninghui's mother, Zhu Biqing, was alive, she would cook sweetened eggs for her on her birthday every year and also hand-sew a new outfit for her. After her mother passed away, all of this naturally ceased. As for her father, on her birthday every year, he would give her a red envelope and pat her head, sighing, "Good Ninghui, you're another year older." But later, her father was also gone.

Once again, Zeng and Yi still laughed together, but that smile seemed so icy to Tang Ninghui, without a trace of warmth: "Tang Ninghui, in this world, anything I desire must be obtained... without exception!"

Zhou Lu bought imported Parisian perfume, lipstick, talcum powder, and pointed leather shoes. Tang Ninghui actually also liked that pair of leather shoes, black lambskin, oiled and soft to the touch like cotton, it must be very comfortable to wear. Unfortunately... Tang Ninghui sighed secretly.

Zhou Lu glanced at Tang Ninghui, who looked nervous, and said with a half-smile, "There are only the two of us in this private room. Since tomorrow is Ninghui's birthday, we decided to have a small celebration today. It's rare to have such a coincidence today. If you don't mind, why not join us?"

That time, if she hadn't entered that tavern, she wouldn't have met Zeng Liantong.

That night, that dance, for Tang Ninghui, was as sweet as a dream!

Tang Ninghui was about to refute, when suddenly a loud quarrel broke out in the next compartment. A very arrogant and domineering male voice came over: "What's wrong with accompanying this lord for a drink? You're just a singer, after all."

Zeng Liantong stood there, his expression unclear: "Tang Ninghui, you are an intelligent person, you know what I want."

Ordered a Western-style steak. Zhou Lu also ordered a fruit jelly for Xiaozhi with a smile. She took a few bites and saw Tang Ninghui looking absent-minded today, so she put down her silver spoon and asked seriously, "What's the matter? Ninghui, I've known you for more than just today."

Tang Ninghui's eyelashes trembled slightly: "Thank you. I...I'm fine with everything." At this moment, Lian Tong stood smiling in front of her, and beside her, Zhou Lu seemed lost in thought. All of this made Tang Ninghui feel as if the air around her had been sucked away, making it difficult to even breathe.

Tang Ninghui put down her knife and fork, looked up at Zhou Lu, then lowered her gaze again, and whispered, "I just saw him..."

As if the play button had been pressed, those deliberately forgotten past events rewound in Tang Ninghui's mind and played back repeatedly. She tossed and turned, unable to sleep all night.

Tang Ninghui couldn't bear it anymore when she heard this and angrily shouted, "Zeng Liantong, shut up!"

Walking over with grace and charm, "What a coincidence, it has been over half a month since we hurriedly parted at the Yuan residence. Miss Tang, I hope all is well?"

Tang Ninghui saw the snot and dirt on the faces of those children, who were truly pitiful and dirty. She couldn't help but feel pity and was about to reach for her purse when Zhou Lu suddenly slapped her arm heavily and pulled her onto a yellow cab, scolding her: "Are you stupid? With so many people here, can you give money to one or two and still give to so many others? I'm afraid that before you can give, your purse will be snatched away. If you lose the salary in your purse, how will you explain it to your mother when you go back?"

Tang Ninghui suddenly remembered that she had not introduced Zhou Lu to Lian Tong yet. She quickly said, "This is Mr. Lian Tong." She looked up at Lian Tong and found his dark and bright eyes were looking at her. Their eyes met in the air, as if sparks were flying. Tang Ninghui quickly looked away and lowered her eyes again. "Mr. Lian, this is Zhou Lu, my colleague in the Municipal Government Secretariat."

Zhou Lu and Xiao Zhi had a playful exchange. When Zhou Lu looked up, she saw Tang Ninghui looking absent-minded, with a distracted look on her face. She asked, "You seem unsettled, what's wrong?" Tang Ninghui looked at Xiao Zhi, who was smiling, and weakly tugged at the corner of her mouth, saying, "It's nothing."

After taking a seat, Zhou Lu personally poured a glass of wine for Liantong. Liantong raised the glass and said to Tang Ninghui, "Miss Tang, we met in a hurry today and I didn't prepare a gift. I offer this glass of wine to wish you a happy birthday and all the best."

Tang Ninghui was stunned for a moment, biting her lip and only saying, "Just pile it up in the storage room." Seeing her distressed expression and pale face without a hint of color, Lin Mama knew not to ask too much and simply replied, "Okay."

Zhou Lu helped Tang Ninghui out of the car and knocked on the iron ring on the door. From inside came a grumbling voice: "Who is it? Coming, coming. That lazy Ah Si, I don't know where he's hiding again. Do I have time to take care of the madam and the young mistress all by myself?"

His gaze, along with a profound smile, shifted towards her face, saying, "I enjoy turning the impossible into possible." As he spoke, he gradually approached her, leaning in close to her ear and whispered, "You teach at Minghua School, earning only sixty-six yuan a month. Meanwhile, Zhou Lu has been following Wang Xiaoxiang for these past few years, wearing luxurious clothes, drinking foreign liquor, and living in a small mansion. You know, with your abilities, I wouldn't even need to lift a finger. Zhou Lu, on the other hand, has been following Wang Xiaoxiang for these past years, wearing luxurious clothes, drinking foreign liquor, and living in a small mansion. You know, with your abilities, I wouldn't even need to lift a finger. So, where should we start? How about we begin with Wang Xiaoxiang, remove him first since he was originally a follower of Liu Zongliang. If it weren't for the fact that he knows how to flatter and quickly align himself with the right side, I would have taken him down a long time ago. Then, we can find someone to deal with Zhou Lu—you know, someone like Zhou Lu, even though she's not young anymore, there are still plenty of opportunities for her to be taken care of."

Zhou Luyuan saw from afar a few children bowing to the yellow cart driver, sighed and said, "You did a good deed, but let's see how you explain it to your wife later. If she finds out you gave money to a beggar, you won't have dinner tonight." Turning around, she saw Tang Ninghui staring silently at the paper bag from the foreign firm.

Zhou Lu tore the newspaper into pieces that day, still unsatisfied. Later, she simply threw the fragments into the stove and burned them—probably because she knew she would never be able to move him a single bit in this lifetime.