Chapter 49: Willing to Brave Fire and Water

Lin Wanbai began to devote herself earnestly to her career. She meticulously organized all business dealings of Juwan Company, clarifying every ongoing project. She wanted to do more, to fully utilize her talents. If she remained only as Fu Juxing’s secretary, her work would overlap too much with Liang Xi; there was no need for that. She pondered what position she could hold in the company, but according to its current scale, Fu Juxing’s structure was flawless—there was scarcely any space for her to fit in.

She considered handling PR and advertising, but Fu Juxing said the company wasn’t yet large enough to need a dedicated department. After all, the name Juwan hadn’t yet shone in any field.

No one knew of them; it was too early to build a corporate image.

Within the company, there were many things she didn’t need to do—serving tea or arranging simple meetings wasn’t her responsibility. Liang Xi handled all those tasks perfectly; there was no need for her to step in.

Sitting at her desk, she played Minesweeper on her computer, clicked randomly, and immediately triggered a mine.

She turned to look at Fu Juxing, who was signing documents. Perhaps he never truly wanted her to help with work.

After watching him for a while, he sensed her gaze, looked up, and saw her boredom. She smiled at him, not wishing to disturb, and quickly turned away to start another round of Minesweeper.

Only this game could hold her attention for a while—it required patience.

After a few moments, a box of chocolates appeared before her. She looked up to find Fu Juxing beside her. “What’s wrong? Bored?”

“A bit. I feel like I’m just accompanying you at work, unable to do anything.”

“Accompanying me isn’t work?”

Lin Wanbai clicked her tongue. “How is that considered work?”

“What would you like to do?” He crouched down.

Lin Wanbai turned to face him. “Shouldn’t I be asking you what’s needed? Any position is fine, maybe I’ll be a bit unfamiliar at first, but I learn fast—I promise I won’t drag you down. Or, just give me a project, big or small, with a couple of helpers, and I won’t disappoint.”

“I know my wife is the most capable, but if I give you too much work, I worry you’ll forget about me. You don’t need to worry about the company; everything is in order. Here, you’re as free as at home—do whatever makes you happy. The only condition is that I can see you at all times. That’s enough.”

He squeezed her hand. “Since you’re bored, I’ll stop working this afternoon and take you out.”

Lin Wanbai sighed. She didn’t particularly like his approach, but seeing his effort, she relented, cupping his face in her hands. “You don’t need to keep me company. Focus on your work; there’s so much to do. If you take another half-day off, you’ll fall behind. I’m not the kind of woman who destroys your empire, especially since it’s still under construction. If the foundation is unstable, even if you succeed, it won’t last. So, at the start, you must build steadily.”

“There’s no need to rush. Take it step by step. We’re comfortable now; it’s not necessary to be the best or the strongest. As long as we’re happy and at ease, wherever we end up is fine.”

Fu Juxing laughed, pinched her nose. “I really did marry a good wife.”

“Of course! But the man I married is just as excellent. If you weren’t, I wouldn’t have worked so hard—I was always going to marry you.”

She grinned, leaned forward, and kissed him lightly.

When she tried to pull back, he wouldn’t let her.

That night, Fu Juxing canceled his overtime and went home with her for a proper meal.

...

At the beginning of December, the two returned to Sibei for dinner.

Coincidentally, Fu Miao had returned to the country. It was fate—right at the door, they bumped into each other.

The relationship between the two instantly dropped to freezing point; Lin Wanbai acted as if she were invisible, not even acknowledging her.

Fu Juxing greeted her, but Fu Miao ignored him, standing aside and waiting for the servants to carry down her luggage. She had submitted her resignation and planned to develop her career in China.

She was already famous. News of her return soon attracted many companies, eager to recruit her.

She refused them all, intending to establish her own brand—preparations before the New Year, launching after. She had the resources, and the Fu family hadn’t yet entered the fashion industry; it was the perfect opportunity. The project had the old lady’s support, and the whole family backed her.

Lin Wanbai and Fu Juxing entered first, walking down the corridor. Lin Wanbai couldn’t help complaining, “Look at her—does she really think she’s a renowned designer? Erasing others’ work and claiming it as her own? What a joke!”

“I’m just waiting to see when she’ll trip up. One day, the truth will come out—let’s see how she handles it then!”

Fu Juxing gently soothed her. “You’re right.”

Today was a good day. Not only was it a Fu family gathering, but they’d invited guests—the Zhao family.

The whole family came. The three sisters, sitting together, were a sight to behold, each with their own charm.

The youngest was a celebrity, the brightest of them all. Even without makeup, she radiated.

Lin Wanbai and Fu Juxing approached, politely greeting everyone.

Zhao Binhua was courteous, standing up to greet Lin Wanbai. Madam Qin Xiuying and Lin Zhaowei had some acquaintance, and their gaze fell on Lin Wanbai. Smiling, she asked, “What have you been up to lately, Xiaobai? It’s been ages since I had tea with Old Lin. Years, really. But I remember you topped the college entrance exam, and Old Lin threw three days of banquets, so happy. Then you won the youth design competition, and Old Lin celebrated for another three days.”

“You really are Old Lin’s little pride. Shame you’re a girl—once you marry, you can only support your husband and raise children. Ah, right, how long have you two been married? No children yet?”

Jiang Shuzhi laughed, “Xiaobai married early, so no need to rush for kids.”

“If you marry early, have more children. For a woman, nothing is more important than bearing children—don’t wait too long.”

Qin Xiuying was somewhat old-fashioned, preferring sons over daughters. Even now, she still wished her son would have more children—even if not at home, then outside.

Unfortunately, Zhao Binhua seemed destined not to have sons; even outside, he had daughters.

Qin Xiuying, being partial, wouldn’t allow daughters into the house, not even acknowledging them—just sending money.

After two more daughters, she finally gave up.

Still, her three granddaughters were outstanding, which brought her comfort.

It was better than Lin Zhaowei, who had cultivated his granddaughter for years.

No matter how excellent, the result was the same—standing behind a man, becoming someone else’s family.

Qin Xiuying wasn’t entirely satisfied with Fu Yanchuan, since Lin Wanbai didn’t want him, and she valued face—whatever others rejected, she wouldn’t want.

But Fu Yanchuan had good character, manners impeccable every visit.

He matched her expectations.

Compared to Lin Wanbai’s circle, she felt much better.

Lin Wanbai had an excellent reputation; Lin Zhaowei had raised her well, and she was smart and diligent—no one could surpass her current status.

Today, Lin Wanbai wasn’t the protagonist. She didn’t intend to steal the spotlight, so after some polite conversation, she sat aside with Fu Juxing.

The elders chatted; the younger ones spoke little, only offering brief responses.

Soon after, Zhao Yiling and Fu Yanchuan arrived.

Zhao Yiling had attended an extra class, so was late; Fu Yanchuan waited for her at school.

Their arrival brought a lively atmosphere.

Qin Xiuying and Jiang Shuzhi’s conversation grew even more animated. Lin Wanbai overheard a bit—it seemed an engagement was imminent.

Fu Juxing seemed unconcerned, passing her a piece of fruit tea.

Lin Wanbai took it, leaning closer. “They’re probably going to get engaged.”

“Most likely. They’ve been together for a while now and seem to get along well. Everyone’s satisfied; engagement is only a matter of time.”

“Lin Zhouye missed his chance.” She sighed. “Such a good girl, and he didn’t appreciate her.”

Fu Juxing smiled. “Your uncle’s matters aren’t yours to worry about—you should worry about me instead.”

“You?” She turned, smiling. “What should I worry about? You excel at everything; what’s left for me to worry over?”

“There’s plenty. Every inch of me needs your worry.”

His words left much to the imagination.

Lin Wanbai clicked her tongue and kicked him lightly.

Fu Miao arrived one minute before dinner.

Jiang Shuzhi scolded her, Qin Xiuying smoothed things over, and the family moved to the dining room.

Fu Miao, a figure in the fashion world, had made a name for herself at Fashion Week.

The youngest Zhao sister, Zhao Yiwen, came today hoping to connect with her.

She was weaker in the fashion circle, lacking close contacts. Now that the two families were about to become in-laws, it was the perfect time to broaden her network.

Of course, today’s main characters were Zhao Yiling and Fu Yanchuan.

They sat together; Fu Yanchuan served Zhao Yiling several times during the meal, treating her with courtesy.

Jiang Shuzhi and Qin Xiuying watched joyfully.

Midway through, Jiang Shuzhi brought up the engagement.

“I see their relationship is stable. Both families are prominent; engagement is necessary. Don’t you agree?”

Qin Xiuying replied, “Absolutely. Lingling is a child I raised myself—I take marriage very seriously. It’s just hard to let go, after all the effort raising her. Now she’s marrying, and I can’t bear it.”

Zhao Yiwen laughed, “Grandma, you still have us, and besides, Second Sister isn’t marrying far away—she can visit anytime. You can drop by, too. Nowadays, things are different. You should let go of those old ideas.”

Qin Xiuying glared at her; she disliked this granddaughter for being too public, becoming a celebrity. In her eyes, an actress was merely an entertainer.

Her descendants weren’t meant for entertainment.

Zhao Binhua shot Zhao Yiwen a warning glance.

Zhao Yiling said, “Little sister’s right. Travel is easy now—even if I marry out of province, visiting is not hard. I just worry you’ll get tired of seeing me too often.”

With Zhao Yiling easing the tension, the atmosphere returned to normal.

The topic shifted back to the engagement.

The two grandmothers discussed enthusiastically, with Fu Changjun occasionally interjecting. Such matters were usually arranged by women.

After dinner, Jiang Shuzhi took Zhao Yiling to her room, returning with a box—clearly a precious gift.

Indeed, marrying off the eldest grandson meant a different attitude.

When Lin Wanbai married Fu Juxing, there was no such treatment.

Jiang Shuzhi hadn’t given her anything, nearly refusing to attend the wedding.

They settled on the date—January second.

Fu Changjun’s face changed when he heard, but he held his tongue. “I think January first would be better.”

Jiang Shuzhi smiled at him. “What do you men know? I had the date chosen by a master. January first is a major festival—bad luck. January second is best, the most auspicious day. For our eldest grandson’s engagement, it must be chosen with care.”

“Is that so?”

“Yes, I’ve always handled these matters. When have you understood? Don’t worry—I wouldn’t harm my descendants.”

She looked at him deeply, then turned and smiled at Qin Xiuying, discussing details.

Zhao Binhua chatted business with the Fu brothers.

Zhao Yiwen took the opportunity to connect with Fu Miao.

The atmosphere was harmonious and joyful.

Lin Wanbai planned to leave early, but seeing no one move, she didn’t want to spoil the mood.

“Lin Wanbai, I’ve heard so much about you.”

Zhao Yimeng, the eldest Zhao daughter, a formidable woman.

Lin Wanbai had a favorable impression—she stood and smiled. “I wouldn’t dare claim such fame; no name rings louder than yours.”

Zhao Yimeng glanced at Fu Juxing, politely greeting him, then sat beside Lin Wanbai. They chatted, eventually discussing Lin Wanbai’s uncle, Lin Zhouye.

Lin Wanbai realized the real intention.

“I won’t hide it—I confessed to your uncle three times, rejected each time with all sorts of excuses. The most foolish was when he said he didn’t like black hair, preferred white. I was in high school, so I dyed my hair white—became the most conspicuous in school, and got called to the principal’s office with my parents. Your uncle is really hard to deal with.”

Lin Wanbai, being younger, knew little of his school life. Most of her time was spent focusing on Fu Juxing, with no time for his gossip. She never saw love letters in his bag.

She used to think Lin Zhouye was immune to women, occasionally suspecting he liked men.

Now, it seemed he had quite a history.

She laughed. “You’re impressive—actually dyed your hair.”

“Yes. Then, at graduation, I confessed again. Guess what?”

“What happened?”

“He asked which university I’d apply to. I thought there was hope, so I told him I’d go wherever he did. He said he’d go to Hangzhou, hoped we’d meet, and if we ended up at the same university, he’d consider. I was tricked—he never left Beicheng; only I foolishly went to Hangzhou. Looking back, I was really naïve.”

She laughed freely, clearly having moved past it.

Lin Wanbai was curious about the third confession, but hesitant to ask.

Soon enough, Zhao Yimeng spoke up.

“The third time was after university. I thought, third time’s the charm. I returned to Beicheng, invited him for dinner, and confessed. He held his teacup, calm as ever, and said: 'Another confession?'"

Yes, the third time she hadn’t even spoken, and he rejected her.

“He said he liked career-driven women, ambitious, at least on par with him. To this day, I’m grateful for that—I’ve become strong, though still a step behind him, but I believe I’ll catch up. I won’t confess again; he’s too old for me now. I want a young, fresh boyfriend.”

They both laughed.

To speak so openly showed her character.

Her rise to prominence proved her charm and ability.

Everyone enjoys talking with successful, open-minded people.

The conversation drifted from Lin Zhouye to architectural design, then to her upcoming eco-city project—she wanted suitable partners. The project matched recent policy, but the upfront investment was huge, making it hard to find collaborators.

The Zhao family stayed until nearly ten, departing in good spirits.

Everyone went home satisfied.

On the way, Qin Xiuying asked, “Mengmeng, what did you talk about with the Lin girl?”

Zhao Yiling, sitting beside Zhao Yimeng, asked, “Yes, big sister, I didn’t know you and Lin Wanbai got along so well. I think her personality is nice—not as bad as rumors say.”

“If there’s a chance to get to know her, of course I wouldn’t miss it. I’ve wanted to meet her for a long time, just never had the opportunity.” She turned to Zhao Yiling, words unsaid but kept within. She smiled, “Are you happy about getting engaged to Fu Yanchuan?”

Zhao Yiling blushed. “Oh, big sister, don’t tease me.”

“You’ve had a crush for so long—finally marrying him, you must be overjoyed. Marrying someone you love, with the right family, is the happiest thing.”

Qin Xiuying turned, “So Lingling had a crush on Fu Yanchuan? No wonder she was so obedient about the matchmaking. She had her own little thoughts.”

Zhao Yiling covered her face, shy at having her feelings exposed—her demeanor completely different from how she appeared in public.

Still a girl full of youthful innocence.

Zhao Yimeng said, “But the Zhao family is complex—once you marry, you can’t stay so naïve. Love alone isn’t enough.”

Qin Xiuying replied, “No need to worry—she’s clear-headed. Lingling’s capable and independent. But you, when will you marry? A woman always with men in business—what does that look like? No matter how capable, you’re still a woman.”

“And Yiwen, too—why become an actress, always cozying up with people on screen? How will you marry well? You two never give me peace of mind.”

None of the three responded. Zhao Yiling, sitting between them, patted the two being lectured.

...

The engagement was set for January second, which conflicted with Feng Yahan’s memorial.

After the guests left, Fu Changjun rarely entered Jiang Shuzhi’s room.

Jiang Shuzhi sent Madam Song out, leaving the couple alone.

She sat on the sofa, holding prayer beads. “How long has it been since you entered this room?”

Fu Changjun skipped the small talk. “Can’t the engagement date be changed? Must it be January second? After so many years, at our age, can’t you let go? You and your family shifted our assets for your use, stripped my company authority—everything in the Fu family has been under your control for decades.”

Jiang Shuzhi looked at him calmly, smiling. “Yes, for years, everything in the Fu family has been decided by me. I thought you were used to it.”

“This time is different!”

“How so?”

“You know it’s her eightieth memorial—you did it on purpose!”

Jiang Shuzhi laughed. “What’s it to me?”

Fu Changjun glared, then softened. “Shuzhi, I’m begging you. It’s the only thing I’ve ever asked of you.”

“I had the date chosen by a master. Fu Changjun, you really disappoint me—all these years, you’ve never forgotten her.”

Fu Changjun: “I’ll ask you one last time—can you change the date?”

Jiang Shuzhi replied, “You can skip the event that day, truly.”

They exchanged barely ten words; Fu Changjun left in anger.

Madam Song entered; Jiang Shuzhi remained calm.

She said quietly, “One day, I’ll dig up her grave.”

...

After leaving Jiang Shuzhi’s room, Fu Changjun considered visiting Fu Juxing, but decided to return to his own.

With Jiang Shuzhi’s unchanging character, angering her meant disaster for those he cared most about.

He sent Fu Juxing a message, outlining tasks on paper, then photographed and sent them.

He only hoped this year wouldn’t be so cold and lonely.

Lin Wanbai had no opinion on the matter.

She simply suggested visiting the grave a few days early—there was no need to stick to a specific date. Less formality meant no trouble.

A grave is always there—visit whenever you wish.

Of course, perhaps it was just her outsider’s perspective; those involved are always confused.

...

Busy days passed quickly. Lin Wanbai stayed by Fu Juxing’s side, rarely meeting friends.

Liang Zhixia called several times, but she couldn’t come. She teased her for being a husband’s slave.

Fu Rong and Xu Yinxue’s wedding was set for Christmas.

Fu Juxing and Lin Wanbai naturally attended; Feng Yajie invited Fu Changjun, but he couldn’t make it.

The wedding was simple and unpretentious. They expected only a few tables, but Fu Rong’s father’s colleagues and old comrades all came—over ten tables.

Xu Yinxue had no relatives, only friends and classmates.

Han Chen was among them.

Lin Wanbai and Fu Juxing sat at the main table, near Han Chen’s. After returning from the restroom, Lin Wanbai saw him.

Their eyes met, and they greeted each other.

Lin Wanbai thought for a moment, then went over, sitting beside him for a brief chat.

The surrounding students from S University had heard many rumors about them.

Seeing Lin Wanbai so natural, they realized there might truly be nothing between them.

“How have you been?” she asked.

“Alright.”

Han Chen hardly dared look at her directly, his gaze fixed on her hand. She wore a ring on her fourth finger, making her hand look even fairer.

With the ring, it seemed they really had reconciled. Earlier, seeing them together, they were clearly more harmonious and loving than before—their interactions throughout the meal confirmed it, and Han Chen observed everything.

From his seat, he could see them perfectly, the best angle for unobtrusive observation.

He never expected Xu Yinxue would marry Fu Juxing’s cousin.

But Xu Yinxue’s words, tinged with negativity, made him feel something was off.

He hesitated, about to say something, when Fu Juxing came over, greeted him, and sat naturally beside Lin Wanbai.

Immediately, the female classmates whispered, mainly about how handsome he was—so much more so than in photos.

Fu Juxing casually placed a hand on Lin Wanbai, smiling at Han Chen. “I didn’t expect you and Xu Yinxue were friends.”

“We studied at the same school, always reading together, so we got to know each other.”

“Remarkable—you’re quite connected to us.”

Lin Wanbai agreed, “I think so too.”

Han Chen and Fu Juxing exchanged a look. “Meeting you both has been my fortune. Especially Miss Lin—without her, I wouldn’t be here. In the future, should I ever succeed, I’ll repay Miss Lin’s kindness.”

“I’d risk everything for her.”

His words were solemn, almost like an oath.