Qi Taiguo was indeed feeling jealous. For so long, the number of men hovering around Cheng Su could be counted on one hand, with Ning Ge being quite outstanding among them.
But what kind of person was Ning Ge? He was like a child, even though he was actually older than Cheng Su. Cheng Su treated him just like she would treat her own younger brother, and Qi Taiguo didn’t sense anything unusual about it.
Even if he did feel a bit jealous, it was nothing serious, no real threat.
But this Luh Kai, a stranger, so refined and elegant—Cheng Su seemed quite familiar with him, interacting naturally, as if they had been friends for a long while.
Moreover, Luh Kai was mature and steady, good-looking in a warm and gentle way, always appearing as if a kindly smile was playing on his lips. Such a man, Qi Taiguo guessed, was probably what most had in mind as an ideal partner.
So yes, he did feel a bit jealous, and even perceived a slight threat, unsure whether it was just his imagination.
Cheng Suxin felt a twinge of secret delight. Finally, she thought, you get a taste of my experience, hmph.
With that in mind, she deliberately patted his shoulder, saying, "Old Qi, you really ought to treat your wife well. Don’t underestimate her worth; she’s in high demand!"
Qi Taiguo’s face darkened.
Cheng Su chuckled and went inside.
Once the rites were concluded, Cheng Su and Dazhi sketched a design and made plans to renovate the shop. Qi Taiguo, on vacation these days, took the initiative to supervise the renovation for her, which made Cheng Su very gratified. Her household’s grand military commander was finally coming around.
As the shop’s renovation got underway, Cheng Su began to prepare for purchasing equipment and recruiting and training staff. Since the shop was meant for fast food, she needed to get kitchenware and meal distribution carts among others.
Success wouldn’t come overnight; things had to be done slowly. Cheng Su wasn’t in a hurry, going to kitchenware factories and the industry and commerce department personally to handle everything.
Time flew by, and December arrived.
Qi Taiguo’s previous unauthorized departure during a mission finally led to a conversation with the organization.
Upon hearing this, Chiang Qing made a special trip to Qi Taiguo’s office and said, "Commander Qi, justice lies in people’s hearts. The Party and the organization will surely deal with you fairly and justly. If they do not, I will report to my father and insist on a thorough investigation. Don’t worry, I will definitely help you."
Qi Taiguo frowned and replied, "Doctor Chiang, being called in for a talk by the organization isn’t a big deal. It’s just to understand the process of the mission. Aren’t you worrying too much? This should be none of your concern!"
Chiang Qing’s face shifted slightly, "I just want to help you..."
"I don’t need your help. I’m a soldier, upright and honest, true to the country, true to the Party," Qi Taiguo interrupted her without a second thought.
"Qi Taiguo, why are you so stubborn? It’s obvious they’re targeting you," Chiang Qing said with a darkened face. "Let me help you!"
Qi Taiguo’s expression grew uglier, "What targeting? I don’t understand what you’re talking about."
"Qi..."
"Doctor Chiang!" Qi Taiguo raised his voice, "I don’t understand, what are you doing right now? And why are you doing this?"
"For what else, I like you!" Chiang Qing blurted out without thinking.
Upon hearing this, Qi Taiguo’s expression completely changed, while Chiang Qing herself was also stunned. Then her cheeks flushed, she bit her lip, looked down, and stole a glance at him.
Although it is said that men should take the initiative in love, if the mountain won’t come to me, then I shall go to the mountain. I, Chiang Qing, dare to love and hate openly. If I must speak out, so be it.
So, how about it? Upon hearing my feelings, aren’t you overjoyed?