Chapter 10

These local troublemakers like Bald Head, taking advantage of their families being from the area, often formed gangs to bully others.

They appeared fierce, but when real trouble came, they were all paper tigers.

Seeing that Yuan Ying intended to call the police and hold them accountable, Bald Head panicked completely and quickly called Feng Juan and Feng Zhuangzhuang.

Though Qixian Erwo was only a few hundred meters from Jin Yuanbao, the two took half an hour to show up—clearly, they had consulted a lawyer at home before coming over.

As soon as they arrived at Jin Yuanbao, Feng Juan slapped Bald Head twice, then immediately knelt before Yuan Ying. Boss, please, for my sake, let him off this time. He won’t dare do it again.

Yuan Ying sighed helplessly. Aunt Feng, you have no face to speak of here.

The most reasonable voice uttered the most cutting words. Stunned, Feng Juan hurriedly replied, Yes, yes, you’re right. I shouldn’t act entitled just because I’m older. We’ll replace this door with a new one. Could you please…

Before she could finish, Yuan Ying had already looked up at Feng Zhuangzhuang.

Feng Juan scrambled to her feet and smacked Feng Zhuangzhuang on the head. Hurry up and say something!

Feng Zhuangzhuang feared nothing and no one—except his own aunt. Otherwise, back when she had insisted on coming to work for him, he wouldn’t have tried to refuse with excuses while still forcing her into Jin Yuanbao.

Even after being hit, he didn’t dare make a sound. Sheepishly, he approached Yuan Ying. Um, Boss Yuan, we were in the wrong this time. As long as you don’t call the police, I’m willing to pay any amount in compensation.

Yes, make him pay, Feng Juan chimed in urgently.

Yuan Ying smiled. Actually, we’re all neighbors. I don’t want this to get too ugly.

Of course, of course. Just tell us how to handle it, Feng Zhuangzhuang said meekly, a far cry from his earlier arrogance.

Yuan Ying remained amiable. It’s quite cold outside. Why don’t you both come in and sit for a while?

Feng Juan and Feng Zhuangzhuang exchanged a glance, then followed her inside.

Bald Head tried to follow as well, but Shu Lin and A Ye stood blocking the doorway, stopping him right there.

Summer nights in Jinlin Town were chilly, but the living room was much more comfortable.

After entering, Yuan Ying took a seat on the sofa. Zhu Feng leaned casually against the backrest, picking up a snack from the table and weighing it in his hand.

Boss Yuan… Feng Zhuangzhuang forced an awkward smile.

Yuan Ying turned to Xiao Yu. Make some tea.

Right away, Boss. Xiao Yu hurried to the tea room to boil water.

While waiting for the water, Feng Juan and Feng Zhuangzhuang took turns apologizing. Yuan Ying remained silent, only pausing to murmur a quiet thank you when Zhu Feng handed her the snack.

Seeing her remain unmoved, Feng Juan and Feng Zhuangzhuang gradually fell silent, not daring to speak further.

The tea was soon ready. Xiao Yu brought two cups over on a tray. Feng Juan reached out ingratiatingly to take one.

With a quick sidestep, Xiao Yu bypassed her, handing one cup to Yuan Ying and the other to Zhu Feng. Feng Juan awkwardly withdrew her hand.

One for me too? Zhu Feng raised an eyebrow.

Xiao Yu looked slightly embarrassed. Go ahead, it helps with sleep.

After spending these past few days together, she had realized that these three meant no harm to her boss.

Not only were they harmless—they had helped out a great deal. Naturally, she had to adjust her attitude accordingly.

While the three of them interacted harmoniously, the aunt and nephew sat fidgeting uneasily.

Unable to bear it any longer, Feng Juan kicked Feng Zhuangzhuang. He had no choice but to steel himself and speak up. Boss Yuan, how should we resolve this matter?

Yuan Ying finally glanced at him. My door costs thirty-seven thousand.

I’ll pay! Feng Zhuangzhuang immediately responded. I’ll transfer it right now.

Yuan Ying raised her hand to stop him. Wait until New Year’s. Add interest, plus Jin Yuanbao’s losses this week, compensation for psychological distress to employees and guests—let’s round it up to sixty thousand as a New Year’s red envelope. Remember to label it as an unconditional gift.

Feng Zhuangzhuang stared blankly. Wh-why…

Yuan Ying smiled. Because I don’t want it mistaken as settlement compensation.

Feng Zhuangzhuang looked at her and suddenly understood.

She wanted the money but refused reconciliation.

Feng Zhuangzhuang’s face immediately darkened. What do you mean? Do you really want mutual destruction? I’m telling you, I’m not afraid of you!

You’re not the one going to jail, of course you’re not afraid. Yuan Ying said understandingly.

At these words, Feng Juan’s expression changed. Feng Zhuangzhuang, what are you trying to do? Apologize to Boss Yuan immediately!

Feng Zhuangzhuang looked aggrieved. Aunt, she has no intention of letting us off!

Feng Juan immediately turned to Yuan Ying.

I will let you off. Yuan Ying said.

Zhu Feng couldn’t help laughing.

Everyone present looked at him in confusion. He casually pinched Yuan Ying’s cheek. So adorable.

Holding someone’s weakness while gently explaining things to them—it was just too amusing.

Yuan Ying: …

Others: …

This guy’s insane.

His inexplicable laughter actually helped Feng Zhuangzhuang calm down. Whatever you want, just say it.

Simple. A sixty-thousand New Year’s red envelope, and a guarantee from Boss Feng. Yuan Ying looked at Feng Zhuangzhuang. I want your assurance that you won’t cause trouble for Jin Yuanbao and other inns anymore, won’t interfere with our room pricing and holiday events, and won’t stop our guests at intersections to spread rumors for your own inn’s benefit.

Qixian Erwo had mediocre decor and outdated furniture, relying entirely on these underhanded tactics to attract customers. Now that Yuan Ying explicitly forbade them, Feng Zhuangzhuang’s expression turned unpleasant.

What are you waiting for? Agree quickly! Feng Juan said anxiously. You don’t want your cousin to go to jail, do you?

Feng Zhuangzhuang gritted his teeth. Fine, I agree. Do I need to write a guarantee letter?

No need, I trust Boss Feng’s character. Yuan Ying said gently.

When she mentioned character, Xiao Yu nearly laughed aloud, though she mostly disagreed.

What character did Feng Zhuangzhuang have? He’d probably break his promise tomorrow.

Just as Xiao Yu was about to advise Yuan Ying, Yuan Ying added: And I trust the law.

Everyone simultaneously looked at her.

Yuan Ying kindly explained: The right holder can file a lawsuit within three years from the date property is damaged. Meaning, if Boss Feng breaks his promise within three years, I can send your cousin to jail anytime.

He won’t, he won’t break his promise. Feng Juan hurriedly said.

Ignoring her, Yuan Ying continued watching Feng Zhuangzhuang, clearly waiting for his personal assurance.

Feng Zhuangzhuang had never endured such humiliation in his life, yet couldn’t lose his temper: …Don’t worry, I keep my word.

Yuan Ying nodded. Then we’ll stop here today. It’s getting late, I won’t keep you.

Feng Juan quickly agreed and pulled Feng Zhuangzhuang out.

After days of turmoil, the troublemakers finally left. The horizon showed first light as Jin Yuanbao’s guests, employees, and owner gathered together.

Ding-ding-ding, three phones rang in succession. Xiao Yu, Shu Lin, and A Ye picked up their phones simultaneously.

A Ye looked at the orange rectangle on his screen and turned to ask Shu Lin, What’s this?

Shu Lin had no time for him, staring at Yuan Ying with confusion. Boss Yuan, why are you sending us red packets?

It’s a token of gratitude for fighting alongside me these past days, Yuan Ying said cheerfully. Accept it without any reservations. Feng Zhuangzhuang will reimburse me during New anyway.Year’s

Mine’s the biggest! Xiao Yu exclaimed. Six thousand! That’s more than my monthly salary.

Yuan Ying patted her head. We’re closed today. a guest room and get some proper rest.Find

Thank you, Boss! Xiao Yu happily went upstairs.

Shu Lin also expressed his gratitude before impatiently answering A Ye’s persistent questioning: It’s money. You can buy food with it.

A Ye instantly accepted his. Thank you.

The three retreated to their rooms in high spirits. When Yuan Ying turned around, she met Zhu Feng’s gaze.

She immediately put on a stern face. You’re not getting one.

Zhu Feng smiled and moved to sit on the sofa. Need any help?

With what? Yuan Ying frowned.

The Feng family members, Zhu Feng leaned back on the sofa, watching her with poor posture. They won’t dare touch you for three years, but once the statute of limitations passes, they’ll likely seek revenge.

I’ll file a lawsuit right before the limitation period ends, Yuan Ying said calmly.

Zhu Feng raised an eyebrow. If you dare do that, Feng Zhuangzhuang won’t let you off.

Three years plus another three—at least she could enjoy six years of peace.

Yuan Ying leaned against the table. Know why he agreed so readily earlier? First, he’s afraid of his aunt Feng Juan. Second, his usual arrogance relies entirely on Bald Head and his crew acting as his enforcers. Once I send that whole group away, what can he accomplish alone, no matter how tough he acts?

You can’t possibly send all of them away, Zhu Feng pointed out. Some will only receive minor punishments.

Yuan Ying spread her hands. Tonight’s events aren’t secret. Those outside must already know about my agreement with Feng Zhuangzhuang. If Bald Head gets sentenced, they’ll blame Feng Zhuangzhuang for breaking the deal and causing their boss to lose freedom. Then it’ll be Feng Zhuangzhuang who needs to worry about revenge, not me.

After speaking, she sighed.

Without family backing, she had to resolve every conflict alone. That’s why she truly disliked confrontations and would retreat whenever possible.

Most times, her tolerance and concessions were met with equal kindness and gentleness. Only rarely would someone take advantage, but since goodwill always outweighed malice in this world, she had no intention of changing her ways despite these experiences.

Anyway, the matter’s resolved. She collapsed onto the sofa like a deflated balloon, staring blankly at the ceiling.

Zhu Feng watched her quietly, his gaze growing increasingly profound.

Though Yuan Ying appeared to be spacing out, she’d been observing him from the corner of her eye. Noticing the shift in his expression, she immediately turned to him. What are you looking at?

Zhu Feng suddenly smiled. You’re amazing, baby.

He meant it as genuine praise, but Yuan Ying recalled certain private nights when he’d praised her like this—always when she’d exerted tremendous effort.

Noticing the subtle physical reaction occurring in her body, Yuan Ying’s expression shifted slightly. She left behind a muttered How tedious before hurriedly running upstairs.

Zhu Feng sat alone in silence for half an hour before going to the third floor to kiss the already soundly sleeping female warrior.

After being tormented for so long, Jin Yuanbao’s group could finally enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep.

Throughout the entire day, no one showed themselves. It wasn’t until after 9 PM that people gradually emerged to search for food.

The living room sofa, empty all day, quickly filled with people eating instant noodles.

While eating, Shu Lin asked: The King… Zhu Feng? He’s not still sleeping, is he?

Probably. Yuan Ying, who had been dreaming all day, looked exhausted as she curled up in the corner of the sofa like a gloomy mushroom.

A Ye had already finished three cups of noodles and was reaching for a fourth when Yuan Ying suddenly sat up straight.

A Ye, eat this one, Yuan Ying handed him a cup of Old Altar Pickled Cabbage flavor, Save the tomato flavor for me.

A Ye grunted in acknowledgment and took the pickled cabbage noodles.

Zhu Feng never appeared, even after everyone finished eating and returned to their respective rooms.

He really can sleep, Shu Lin remarked after checking the closed door of the Wealth Room on the second floor.

At the same time, Feng Zhuangzhuang had just finished his day’s work and peacefully lay down on his bed.

Suddenly, a pillow was pressed tightly against his face. He screamed in terror, but the pressure only intensified.

A suffocating sensation overwhelmed him. After struggling briefly, he soon lost consciousness.

Scrape… scrape… scrape…

The sound of shoveling echoed repeatedly in his ears. Feng Zhuangzhuang’s eyelid twitched, followed by the sensation of nighttime chill.

Scrape… scrape… scrape…

What was that sound? Hadn’t he been smothered to death? Why could he still hear these strange noises after dying?

Struggling to wake up, Feng Zhuangzhuang saw Bald Head and others with their mouths gagged and limbs bound, all staring in terror at a certain direction.

Instinctively, he followed their gaze and saw Zhu Feng standing up straight from the half-dug pit, leaning leisurely on the shovel that had been purchased for road repairs.

Noticing Feng Zhuangzhuang was also awake, Zhu Feng smiled cheerfully: Boss Feng, awake now?

Feng Zhuangzhuang’s eyes widened suddenly. He tried to scream but found his mouth gagged, unable to make a sound.

Zhu Feng jumped out of the half-dug pit and stepped on his calf: Friends who frequently commit murder all know there’s a subtle timing difference between suffocation-induced unconsciousness and actual death by suffocation. Very few people can skillfully control this timing gap.

After pausing briefly, Zhu Feng laughed: Boss Feng, am I quite impressive?

Feng Zhuangzhuang: …

Impressive my ass, help!

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