Chapter Sixty-Three: Identity Exposed

The group arrived swiftly and left just as quickly. In contrast, Cai Chrysanthemum, after receiving several solid slaps, was left completely bewildered, unable to grasp what had just happened. The others were equally at a loss. Why had Tiger Two suddenly struck Li Tiger’s mother? Moreover, Li Tiger’s anger seemed to dissipate in an instant. The multitude of doubts troubled everyone, leaving them unable to make sense of the situation.

They could not discern the meaning behind it all.

Once they left Shen Guodong’s small courtyard, the gangsters began questioning loudly, unable to contain their confusion.

“What on earth just happened? Are you out of your mind, Tiger Two? Explain yourself properly and apologize to Auntie first.”

“Exactly! How could you hit Li Tiger’s mother?”

“Aren’t you helping that guy indirectly? Or is there some connection between you two?”

Many voiced their perplexity, all eyes fixed on Tiger Two, hoping he would clarify everything. Li Tiger, however, had already calmed down and spoke, “Tiger Two, did you notice something— is that why you acted like that? I know you must have discovered something.”

“Do you remember that Baldie recently got acquainted with someone, the very person even Scar, who’s far above us in status, paid a heavy price for? I’m sure you recall that incident vividly,” Tiger Two said. “And last time, when Brother Wang’s uncle was involved, I was there too— it was all orchestrated by that guy. In Baldie’s eyes, he holds tremendous importance. Even Brother Wang wouldn’t dare provoke him, and only by letting his own uncle pay the price did he barely extinguish that guy’s fury. If you offend him, do I need to say what could happen to you?”

As these words fell, Li Tiger and the others’ expressions changed almost instantly, a lingering fear taking root in their hearts.

Impossible!

That fellow was actually Baldie’s favored confidant— the one who’s been circulating in the rumors lately? Their faces shifted visibly. In that moment, it was almost unimaginable.

Compared to Scar, their own status was insignificant. If they offended Shen Guodong, what would Baldie do to them afterwards? The answer was all too clear.

Surviving would already be considered lucky.

They would be utterly ruined.

At this thought, sweat soaked each person’s back. Fortunately, Tiger Two had discovered Shen Guodong’s identity in time, preventing disaster.

“Tiger Two, people always said you were observant— I never believed it before, but now I finally do!”

“If it hadn’t been for Tiger Two, we’d probably all be done for.”

“That’s right. Lucky for us, lucky for us. Let’s go grab something to eat!”

Their voices overlapped, relief pouring out with every word. Cai Chrysanthemum, meanwhile, was at a loss for words. What had she done to deserve this? She’d been beaten out of nowhere, slapped several times, and now, even with a stomach full of grievances, there was nowhere to vent. At this point, she felt like dying.

She couldn’t begin to explain the situation, only sighing helplessly.

...

Inside the small courtyard.

Zhou Meiniang had been worried just moments before. Now, her expression had grown odd. What was going on? She had no idea how to explain it.

Her face changed subtly as she pondered.

“Why did they leave? They were fine, then suddenly started fighting among themselves!” Zhou Meiniang seemed to sense something but couldn’t confirm it, so she looked at Shen Guodong with uncertainty.

Shen Guodong smiled, replying casually, “I don’t know either. I was ready to take a beating, but who would have thought they’d leave on their own? What could I even say about it?”

In truth, he had noticed Tiger Two’s change in expression and could almost confirm that Tiger Two had figured something out.

Having realized the connection between himself and Baldie, such a reaction was only natural— especially since he’d overheard that these were Baldie’s men.

Though his relationship with Baldie was merely a partnership, even that was enough to command respect.

Anyone who crossed him would face inevitable consequences.

Fortunately, Zhou Meiniang didn’t press the issue.

The house had just been rented, and there were appliances and other necessities to prepare, not to mention cleaning. There was plenty to be done.

She didn’t want to dwell on the matter.

“Guodong, go buy me a broom and cleaning cloths. I’ll start tidying up inside, and later you can accompany me to pick up some household appliances.”

Zhou Meiniang instructed.

Shen Guodong headed to the nearby market.

Brooms were brought in from the countryside for city sale— cheap, sturdy, and durable.

After purchasing everything needed, he returned to the courtyard. Zhou Meiniang had already begun cleaning, dressed in simple home clothes. Because the outfit was rather loose, it revealed much— an irresistible temptation for any man.

Shen Guodong’s eyes nearly popped out, standing dazed at the door, wholly captivated by her. It was so obvious there was no need for words.

Zhou Meiniang sensed someone enter, but seeing him unmoving, she hesitated, then looked up and found his expression amusing.

“Silly, what are you doing? Standing at the door like a fool— don’t you know how ridiculous you look?”

Her tone was exasperated.

Only then did Shen Guodong snap out of it. He put down what he was holding, stepped forward, and drew Zhou Meiniang into his arms. The intent in his eyes and actions made clear what he wanted.

Zhou Meiniang’s cheeks flushed with embarrassment.

Just as she was about to speak, her cherry lips were sealed by Shen Guodong.

She surrendered quickly.