Chapter 127, exclusive to Jinjiang, is now complete...

Su Ruyi was not surprised to hear Zhang Qingfeng's name from Liu Quan. For some reason, she felt a sense of relief, as if she had known it all along.

It had been over a year since Zhang Qingfeng left the Zhang family, and Su Ruyi had never seen him again.

Every time I visited the Zhang family, I never met this person; Old Master Zhang clearly didn't want to mention him.

Su Ruyi only heard from Zhang Qingyun that Zhang Qingfeng seemed to be doing quite well now. He had even bragged about it in front of Old Master Zhang before, but was kicked out by Old Master Zhang.

Although Grandpa Zhang did not explicitly state it, his attitude had already told everyone that he no longer recognized this grandson.

However, despite this, Zhang Qingfeng is, after all, the eldest grandson of Old Master Zhang. His troubles will affect the Zhang Group and Old Master Zhang's mood.

Old Master Zhang's health was not good; the hardships he endured in his early years had left him with chronic illnesses.

Although he still holds considerable power within the group, he has gradually delegated many tasks to his subordinates, focusing only on the overall direction.

Although Grandpa Zhang seemed indifferent to his eldest grandson, he would definitely be saddened if he knew that something had happened to him.

The old man valued this grandson highly; otherwise, he wouldn't have wanted Su Ruyi to marry Zhang Qingfeng.

I just felt that he still needed more training, otherwise he would not amount to anything. The more I valued him, the higher my expectations became. Who knew that Zhang Qingfeng couldn't handle even the slightest setback? He was unwilling to start from the bottom honestly, he was too ambitious, always thinking of taking things directly from his elders, and unwilling to put in the effort to learn and develop.

He was put in charge of a project, but he ran away halfway through, which infuriated the old man. He has now completely abandoned the real estate sector that he originally valued.

Su Ruyi was curious at the time why Zhang Qingfeng would be willing to give it up. Although real estate is not a golden industry at present, it is still very promising.

Even if we're not optimistic about it right now, it's still worth doing it. With the Zhang Group as our backing, it's easy to achieve results.

Zhang Qingfeng had been pretending for so long, how could he suddenly give up like that?

Even in the golden age of the real estate industry, no matter how much money can be made, it's not as profitable as fraud with no risk involved.

The "Sharp Sword" program team conducted an in-depth investigation into the collective scam that occurred in Xinghua Village. Similar scams, such as "pig butchering" and "pyramid schemes," are rampant across the country, employing a variety of methods and causing enormous economic losses.

Moreover, the methods of pyramid schemes today are not as mild as they were after they were cracked down on decades later; they mainly rely on brainwashing.

The current methods of pyramid schemes are divided into two factions, North and South. The 'Northern faction' is more brutal. Those who fail to complete their tasks will be severely punished, and sometimes it can even lead to death.

The pyramid scheme methods used in Qing Province belong to the "Northern School" and have resulted in deaths in the past. This led to the "Sharp Sword" program team targeting the case and conducting an in-depth investigation to find out who was behind it.

Unexpectedly, the investigation eventually led to Zhang Qingfeng, and the entire gang was apprehended.

When Su Ruyi heard this, she gasped. Even with her current power, she wouldn't dare to delve into such an organization; she would be dead in a heartbeat.

"Is the undercover reporter alright?" Su Ruyi couldn't help but interrupt.

Liu Quan laughed and said, "He's doing great. That guy is very quick-witted and has a silver tongue. After he went in, he became a key member of the organization. Otherwise, he wouldn't have been able to expose the person behind the scenes so easily."

In recent years, there has been a crackdown, but each time only some small fry on the surface are caught, while the big fish behind the scenes easily escape.

Those big fish never appear in the limelight; they provide funding and manpower support behind the scenes, and many people have no idea who they are.

Therefore, even after cracking down on one group, another group quickly formed. This not only failed to achieve the purpose of punishment and warning, but also made these people even more arrogant.

Only after the reporter infiltrated the upper echelons were they able to uncover the person behind the scenes.

At this point, Liu Quan couldn't help but exclaim, "This is all thanks to your help."

Su Ruyi asked, puzzled, "What does this have to do with me?"

Su Ruyi had no idea that a reporter would be so bold as to infiltrate the fraud organization to conduct an investigation, let alone offer any assistance.

"If it weren't for the funding you provided, no matter how good he is at bluffing, he wouldn't have been promoted to a senior management position."

To demonstrate competence within a fraud organization, one must have 'performance' to be considered.

Where do these 'performance figures' come from? Surely they can't actually be involved in fraud?

So much money must have been swindled from so many ordinary people. Even if it can be returned later, the harm suffered by many people after being swindled is difficult to make up for even if the money is returned.

If someone dies from a sudden stroke, they will live with unease for the rest of their life.

The fund pool that Su Ruyi had set up earlier came into play at this time, and she directly misappropriated this part of the funds to "pay tribute" to the emperor; otherwise, she would not have been able to gain his trust.

This reminder reminded Su Ruyi that she had indeed received a report about the use of funds before.

After giving out the money, Su Ruyi didn't pay much attention to it. She would only check the accounts at the end of the year to ensure that every penny was spent wisely. Su Ruyi wouldn't investigate if some money was misappropriated. As long as she saw results, Su Ruyi wouldn't care if she embezzled a little money.

After all, "The Sword" always breaks big, deadly news stories, and the reporters risk their lives to conduct in-depth reporting, so it's only right that they get paid more.

We can't rely solely on enthusiasm; we also need some financial support.

Being generous during the investigation process can make things much more efficient.

This money also came from "The Sword," and Su Ruyi just earned a little less.

However, since that time a large amount of funds needed to be misappropriated at once, I had to report it to Su Ruyi.

Especially since they didn't know if they could get the money back, they had to keep in touch with Su Ruyi.

Because Liu Quan guaranteed that the money had a clear destination, but it was inconvenient to disclose it at the time due to insufficient investigation, and that it would definitely be explained clearly when the accounts were settled at the end of the year, Su Ruyi readily agreed.

"So that's what it was about back then."

Liu Quan was still shaken: "At the time, I wasn't sure either. I wouldn't have dared to approve it if it were anyone else, but I know him. He's passionate and an idealist. From the moment he entered this field, he has been criticizing current affairs, exposing corruption, protecting the interests of the people, and speaking out for the masses. For this cause, he's over thirty and still unmarried, and he spends all the money he earns on it, eating nothing but plain steamed buns every day. That's why I dared to trust him."

When Su Ruyi gave out the money, she was prepared for all sorts of problems to come.

I'm very happy to see it being put to practical use now.

Compared to what she gave up, she gained more from "The Sword".

The program "The Sword" is very popular because its content format makes people trust the sponsoring advertisements more, giving the brands a better reputation.

Ruyi Apparel was originally a brand in Qing Province, but now it has expanded nationwide and become a well-known national brand.

Building a brand is extremely valuable; a good reputation among the people is more valuable than any award.

Su Ruyi was already satisfied with the current level of Ruyi Clothing, but this unexpected joy has given her new plans.

Su Ruyi built a second factory in the provincial capital, and the clothing produced was sold all over the country.

The factory was built near the new plastics factory. Now, many factories have moved there, turning the area into an industrial zone.

Not only is the land large and cheap, but there are also various policy supports.

Liu Quan then mentioned some of the reporter's previous reports, each one more sensational than the last, some even exposing illegal coal mines.

You have to understand that these days, those who run illegal coal mines are no pushovers. Going into the rear is like being a war correspondent; you risk your life to uncover the truth.

Because he was so daring, each news story used a different name to protect him.

This reporter isn't the type to do these things for fame; he doesn't care about being famous, so he frequently changes his name. Someone unfamiliar with the situation might think it's many different people, but it's always been him.

He is the backbone of "The Sword". Although other reporters are also excellent, none of them are as willing to go all out as he is.

Having been poisoned by various irresponsible self-media, Su Ruyi greatly admired and worshipped this journalist with lofty ideals, and simply said:

“Such a talented person deserves preferential treatment. Has his housing problem been solved? I'll give him an apartment.”

Liu Quan coughed violently: "Boss Su, you're going too far..."

"His audacity makes him a prime target for retaliation. In our small town, security is definitely not a problem."

Liu Quan immediately stopped saying anything, only thanking Su Ruyi on behalf of the other party.

"Has Zhang Qingfeng been arrested?" Su Ruyi asked.

Liu Quan: "He has been secretly arrested, but this has not been made public at the moment."

Because he had powerful protectors, the report was made through the inspection team. He has now been arrested privately, but the matter has not yet been made public.

With such conclusive evidence, things are definitely not going to end well.

This matter will definitely be announced in the future, but if "The Sword" reports on it, the impact will be significantly different.

Liu Quan was well aware of the relationship between Su Ruyi and the Zhang family. As Su Ruyi's biggest benefactor, he always had to make arrangements with her.

Su Ruyi still did not interfere with the production team, letting them decide whether to air the program and when to air it; her opinion was not important.

However, Su Ruyi still made a special trip to the Zhang family's old house to visit Old Master Zhang.

Grandpa Zhang looked even more haggard than before, and Su Ruyi knew that the old man must have already received word of it.

Grandpa Zhang was not surprised by Su Ruyi's sudden visit.

Su Ruyi earnestly advised, "Grandpa, you always say that children and grandchildren have their own blessings. You're so old, don't worry about so much."

Grandpa Zhang rolled his eyes at Su Ruyi: "How can you talk like that? I'm still as strong as ever."

Su Ruyi raised an eyebrow: "When people get old, they have to accept it. If you're so capable, come with me to a club now and let's see if you can still jump around."

"It's only because you're such a brat that you like to annoy me the most. If it were anyone else, I would have kicked them out long ago."

Su Ruyi joked around with the old man, which made him quite angry, but the worry between his brows was no longer there.

"Girl, it's a good thing you didn't marry him. That brat has really disgraced the Zhang family."

Su Ruyi shrugged: "Who knows? Maybe if I marry him, he won't be able to do such weird things. I'm such an outstanding person, I can definitely keep him in check."

Grandpa Zhang was speechless: "You're saying this to make me even angrier and more regretful."

"I was just bragging. You wanted us to get married because you thought I was capable."

"It's a blessing that our Zhang family is so fortunate to have such a wonderful wife like you, a girl who understands everything so clearly."

“Grandpa, you have more than one grandson. Others don’t need to be averaged out to be excellent. Why can’t we give them a chance? Using my strengths to make up for his weaknesses only drags me down. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have achieved what I have today.”

Grandpa Zhang was initially just a little depressed. Having experienced so much, nothing really bothered him. But after hearing Su Ruyi's words, all his melancholy vanished.

Although Old Master Zhang didn't know what Zhang Qingfeng was doing before, he always felt it wasn't anything good, so he had warned him before.

The old lady's men were mostly from her former family, many of them were shady and didn't do anything legitimate.

Although a group of people were purged before, many others were protected and even stirred up trouble during that special period.

Grandpa Zhang always kept his distance from Grandma Zhang and made it clear that if his descendants had any connection with that side, they should not return to the Zhang family. This showed that he was wary of those people.

Those people are used to exploiting others and getting something for nothing; they find it difficult to be down-to-earth.

Zhang Qingfeng felt that he was not valued in the Zhang family, so he went to seek refuge there. Old Master Zhang warned him, but he did not listen. He even went to the old man and boasted about it.

Now that he's been arrested, Grandpa Zhang isn't surprised.

While one may be rational, emotions inevitably fluctuate.

Su Ruyi then revealed her purpose for coming: "The program will definitely be broadcast, Grandpa, you should be prepared."

Such a typical case needs to be made known to everyone in order to raise awareness.

Currently, many people are indeed unaware of what "pig butchering scam" or "pyramid scheme" are, and they need to be educated about these concepts.

This not only helps you avoid being scammed, but also allows you to promptly detect any unusual behavior from your relatives and friends.

"I've seen all sorts of storms, this is nothing," Old Master Zhang said calmly.

Although it will have some impact on the Zhang Group, and some people might even drag the Zhang family into it, Old Master Zhang still chose to accept it, because he had such descendants.

This also serves as a warning to others: if someone really breaks the law or violates regulations and gets into trouble, he will not plead for them to save face.

"This show is excellent. I watch every episode. This is how the media should be."

With Grandpa Zhang's clear statement, Su Ruyi felt more at ease.

Although Su Ruyi will not interfere with the program team's arrangements regardless of Grandpa Zhang's attitude, it would be best if Grandpa Zhang didn't care about it.

Su Ruyi didn't hesitate to tell Liu Quan about Grandpa Zhang's attitude, and Liu Quan immediately made the decision to release this episode ahead of schedule, causing an uproar across the country.

This was the first television program to expose this scam in such detail, and therefore it generated a huge response.

Unlike decades later when most people are familiar with various scams, many people today genuinely don't know which ones are frauds, so they are completely unaware of them.

The uproar caused by this report is also related to Zhang Qingfeng, the person behind it all.

The fact that a young man from a privileged background, a graduate of a prestigious university, and with outstanding looks would do something like this is certainly worth discussing.

People with outstanding appearances always attract more attention, and this time is no exception.

Su Ruyi was deeply moved when she saw Zhang Qingfeng on TV.

Zhang Qingfeng is no longer the spirited young man he once was, nor has he put on a facade of gentleness. He is filled with resentment and frustration at being captured, and he is utterly dejected and listless.

But Su Ruyi felt that this was Zhang Qingfeng's true nature.

He used to hide his incompetence and greed beneath a facade of pretense.

Even now, Zhang Qingfeng still doesn't think he did anything wrong, and keeps blaming his uncle and cousins ​​who brought him into the industry.

Su Ruyi couldn't stand watching half of his final confession and turned it off.

They blame heaven and earth, but never themselves.

How did someone like that become the male lead in a novel?

Although many older romance novels feature male protagonists who are law-abiding citizens, it's rare to see one so irresponsible.

But now that the male protagonist is imprisoned, will the world ever be any better?

As it turns out, the world will keep turning no matter who leaves.

After Zhang Qingfeng's verdict was handed down, the world went back to normal.

Li Yiyi asked Su Ruyi to meet again. Su Ruyi refused several times, but finally agreed.

Same coffee shop, same location.

Just like last time, Li Yiyi was already sitting inside very early, looking completely lost and bewildered.

Su Ruyi took her seat, still lost in her own emotions.

Su Ruyi didn't disturb her and called the waiter to order food herself.

Only after her order was delivered did Li Yiyi turn her head blankly and look at Su Ruyi.

"He went in, didn't you feel anything?"

Su Ruyi calmly took a sip of her coffee; this coffee shop was pretty good.

How should I feel?

Li Yiyi stared straight at her, but she couldn't see anything she wanted to see in Su Ruyi's eyes.

In fact, Li Yiyi didn't know what she wanted to see either.

She created this world, but it doesn't operate according to her will.

She remains as powerless as ever, even though she now possesses everything she never dared to dream of before.

Li Yiyi didn't know what went wrong or how things had gotten to this point.

If she hadn't intervened so forcefully, would Zhang Qingfeng have ended up in this situation?

Zhang Qingfeng's changes made Li Yiyi feel that this was not an out-of-character (OOC) situation.

Therefore, the Zhang Qingfeng she saw before was not the one she thought he was, or perhaps not the whole picture.

The stories that made her feel sorry for him weren't actually the way he described them, were they?

Li Yiyi came into this world to stand openly beside this man, but now that he's gone in, the time he'll come out will be the same as the time he appeared before her in her previous life.

At that time, was Li Yiyi still willing to be with this man like Li Jing was?

The answer is no.

Li Yiyi, or rather Li Jing, knew very well that her so-called liking for men, regardless of what the other person was like, and that she loved them deeply, was just an excuse to make herself a third party.

If she has negated the past, what will become of her in the future?

Li Yiyi didn't know the answer, so she used various means to arrange to meet Su Ruyi again.

She didn't know what she wanted to do, but she just wanted to see Su Ruyi.

But when the person stood before her, Li Yiyi was even more bewildered.

Looking at the woman in front of her, who was dazzling and confident both now and in her past life, Li Yiyi always felt an indescribable sense of inferiority.

Li Yiyi also discovered that she had always believed that the woman in her previous life was vulgar, stupid, and a complete slacker. But now, looking back, she realized that the woman was older than Su Ruyi in front of her, but the temperament was exactly the same.

They were all equally beautiful, elegant, and composed, not at all as the man described them as unreasonable and vulgar.

These are the qualities she wants to see, not the qualities she actually sees.

Li Yiyi couldn't understand why, even though she had a better background, better education, and better looks, she still couldn't be confident standing in front of Su Ruyi. Why did she always feel insecure?

“If you two had been together back then, he definitely wouldn’t have turned out like this.”

Su Ruyi laughed: "And this is my fault?"

It's fine for her to joke like that with others, but it's ridiculous for others to use it to criticize her.

Li Yiyi pursed her lips and remained silent.

"You two are truly a match made in heaven."

Upon hearing this, Li Yiyi frowned.

If she had heard those words before, she would have been happy, but now she only felt a strong sense of irony.

Su Ruyi had no intention of wasting time with her. "I don't know you well, I'm not interested in you, and I have no feelings for the person you've taken a liking to. This will be the last time we meet. From now on, let's each go our own way and not bother each other."

After saying that, Su Ruyi got up and left the coffee shop.

This time, Li Yiyi did not stop her.

Su Ruyi stepped out of the coffee shop, the sunlight warming her body.

The cold winter has passed, and the vibrant spring has arrived. No matter what season it is, it has its own unique beauty.

Su Ruyi didn't know why she came into this world, but since she was here, she would live each day to the fullest.

If you can't change something, face it calmly and do your best.

If you want a certain kind of life, then strive for it.

Su Ruyi looked at the familiar face walking towards her and gave him a bright smile.

"Have you been waiting long?"

“I just finished a phone call, and the timing is perfect,” Lu Ting said with a smile. “Mom is coming over soon. She can drive, so I’m planning to buy her a new car so she can go wherever she wants.”

"We'll have to wait for her to come and choose for herself. I don't know whether she'll choose a sedan or a Jeep."

"Okay, let Mom make the decision herself."

"The wedding dress I ordered is ready. Let's go try it on now."

"good……"

Author's Note: Thank you all for your continued support! There are a few more side stories coming up, which will explain some things that weren't explained earlier. Mwah!