Chapter 168: Retreat
Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
Upon hearing Qi Shuo’s words, everyone began to feel relieved. As long as there was still a chance for these two to connect, their matchmaking efforts would not be in vain.
Xu Yuan even started to fantasize, “When those two finally get together, our contributions will be significant. Gu Chen will surely owe us some favors.”
Though the others didn’t voice it aloud, they secretly harbored similar thoughts.
Gu Chen’s typically icy demeanor prompted his brothers to yearn for opportunities to tease him. They reasoned that even if he became annoyed, at least it meant he was acting more like a living person.
If they could match him with Song Fan, they would no longer need to worry. Benefits would undoubtedly follow.
While those outside indulged in these daydreams, Song Fan and Gu Chen remained oblivious to their schemes. The notion had never crossed their minds.
Gu Chen observed Song Fan as she diligently handled her work, wondering what else she might be concealing trom him. Meanwhile, Song Fan contemplated how to handle Gu Chen’s apparent tests.
Both occupied the same room, deep in their own thoughts, enveloped in a silence that allowed even a pin drop to be heard.
After a lengthy pause, Gu Chen finally spoke, “I’m pleased that Miss Song has chosen to stay. I’m also curious about where you acquired your medical skills.”
Based on available information, Song Fan had always lived in Yongping Village, which had no medical institutions aside from the local health center. To reach a county hospital, one had to drive for roughly an hour. So, Song Fan’s exceptional medical skills were perplexing to Gu Chen.
Song Fan responded with a smile, “Mr. Gu, you need not concern yourself with such matters. All that matters is my ability to cure you. Why must you inquire about my mentor?”
Gu Chen, however, remained insistent, “Remarkable medical skills like yours must have a mentor. I can’t help but be curious.”
Of course, Song Fan couldn’t divulge her true source of medical knowledge. She had acquired her skills in her previous life, making it impossible for anyone to identify her master.
She chose to maintain her silence, confident that Gu Chen couldn’t compel her to speak. Nevertheless, at that very moment, Gu Chen abruptly abandoned his work and approached the bed with a smile.
“Miss Song, I’ve asked a question, and it’s considered quite rude not to answer,”
Gu Chen said as he advanced.
Song Fan lifted her gaze and met his eyes, retorting, “It’s my prerogative whether to respond or not. Is Mr. Gu planning to resort to violence?”
Gu Chen stood in front of Song Fan, exuding a condescending and oppressive aura. Nevertheless, Song Fan sat on the bed with unwavering composure, showing no fear. Her presence seemed to match Gu Chen’s aura.
After a prolonged exchange of gazes, Gu Chen suddenly smiled. “Song Fan, you always manage to make me take a step back.”
In the past, Gu Chen would swiftly eliminate any unknown variables that threatened him. He would never let himself be in any danger.
Especially someone who knew about his condition. If word of his illness leaked, it could deal a fatal blow to the Gu Corporation, so it was crucial to keep it under wraps.
Yet, he allowed this situation to persist and insisted on keeping Song Fan by his side. He couldn’t explain why he was doing this, but his heart told him it was necessary.
“It’s quite an achievement to make Mr. Gu take a step back,” Song Fan replied with a laugh.
She didn’t perceive the affection in Gu Chen’s words; her mind was occupied by the satisfaction of having the upper hand.
Gu Chen, however, could discern her current train of thought. At times, he found Song Fan’s obtuseness frustrating, yet it was also what drew him to her.
Gu Chen reached out to gently stroke Song Fan’s hair. She was surprised. Despite the shock, she didn’t evade his touch and asked, “Is there something in my hair?”
“I’m expressing my affection for you,” Gu Chen stated.
Song Fan immediately recalled Gu Chen’s proposal and scoffed, “Are you still trying to tease me with marriage?”
“What marriage!” Song Kai��s voice pierced the room like a sharp dagger.
He stood at the door with a plate of watermelon in his hand, Song Kai observed the scene in the room with astonishment, particularly the hand that had been resting on Song Fan’s head.
Song Kai seemed to care little for the watermelon. He rushed inside, intent on pushing Gu Chen away. However, Gu Chen released his grip before Song Kai could reach them, and Song Kai found himself lunging at empty air.
He looked at Song Fan with an aggrieved expression and questioned her, “Why did you let him touch your head?”
Song Fan struggled to explain this situation and decided to deflect the issue.
“What’s wrong with letting him touch my head? Don’t make a fuss.”
Song Kai pouted and insisted, “Don’t let him touch you in the future. You’re the eldest daughter of our Song Family..”