Chapter 39 The real culprit behind the scenes, Sheng Yun Shen, you've been exposed.
Sheng Yun Shen had, of course, heard what the Sheng family members said.
Since Ling Shu asked this question, she probably really has doubts about his identity.
He paused for a few seconds, then replied, "Host, I don't understand what you're saying."
Under the lamplight, Ling Shu's expression was indifferent: "So, this is your answer?"
Even after she had said all that, the "dog system's" response remained cold: "Sorry, host, I don't understand what you're saying."
"All right."
Ling Shu shrugged, didn't press further, and started walking upstairs.
She knew she couldn't wake someone who was pretending to be asleep.
Moreover, the identity of the dog system is currently only speculation. Without concrete evidence, Ling Shu does not want to arbitrarily convict him.
While waiting for the elevator, she calmly pondered in her mind and soon came up with an idea.
Taking out her phone, Ling Shu quietly sent a text message to Butler Wang.
"Uncle Wang, there's something I'd like to ask you..."
-
The Li family's invitation was officially delivered to the Sheng family a day later.
Butler Wang was even happier than Ling Shu herself when he saw that she was willing to attend the banquet. He went to great lengths to get her several haute couture gowns to choose from.
The companies that Ling Shu had previously invested in have also responded one after another, with nanofibers, solar panels, drones and other products being delivered to the Shengjia Manor.
On a sunny afternoon, Ling Shu listened to Butler Wang's report while trying on her dress.
"We've already tested the nanofibers that Guan Zheng sent; they're incredibly tough, and only specialized tools can cut them—ordinary knives simply can't handle them. The solar panels are also being installed, and the overall energy storage design is more than halfway complete..."
Ling Shu turned her body and admired herself in the mirror in front of her.
She wore a black and white dress, with silk roses adorning the black and white border, which shimmered with a warm luster under the lights.
very beautiful.
She nodded in satisfaction: "This one will do."
This outfit is perfect for a fight.
Butler Wang paused to report: "Alright, this one it is. The matching jewelry will be delivered shortly."
Ling Shu recalled what Butler Wang had reported: "By the way, Uncle Wang, didn't you also send a batch of robot dogs this time? We'll use these robot dogs when the solar panels are being installed, and see how efficient they are at transporting goods."
Butler Wang nodded in agreement: "Yes, Miss Ling."
Ling Shu went back to the dressing room to change her clothes.
As if suddenly remembering something, she casually asked in her mind, "Doggy, the stockpiling work is progressing smoothly, we just need some suitable weapons. Weapons are hard to come by. I heard there's an underground trading market south of Beijing, should I try my luck there today?"
Sheng Yun pondered for a moment before replying, "I do not recommend that the host go. A major case occurred near the underground trading market a couple of days ago. The murderer killed someone with a gun and fled. The police have sealed off the market, but they have not yet caught the murderer."
"Holding a gun?"
Ling Shu became interested. "Then I should go even more. No matter what kind of thugs they are, they definitely can't beat me."
Sheng Yunshen advised, "The market has already been sealed off. Going there now would be too conspicuous. Host, please wait a couple more days. I'll think of another way to deal with the weapons."
Ling Shu readily agreed, "Okay."
She lowered her eyes, concealing her expression, and asked with a hint of curiosity, "When did this case happen?"
Sheng Yun Shen didn't think much of it and replied, "It should have been around 3 PM the day before yesterday."
Ling Shu was worried that he would be bored lying down, so she played the news for him at a set time every day. The information about this case was what he heard on the news. At that time, the host said three points.
Ling Shu curled her lips into a faint smile that seemed to say, "Just as I expected," her tone remaining completely unchanged.
"Oh, three o'clock."
Sheng Yun Shen, you've been exposed.
-
The time for the Li family's banquet arrived quickly.
Sheng Yunqi arrived early in the morning to wait for Ling Shu outside Xiaoming Building, and the two of them took a car together to the Li family.
Unlike the Sheng family, which had a small number of members, the Li family was a large and lively household living in a villa complex on the outskirts of Beijing.
The appearance of Sheng Yunqi and Ling Shu sparked a wave of discussion.
"Look, that's the Sheng family's car!"
"The Sheng family and the Li family have already reached a cooperative relationship, and the Li family also holds shares in the Sheng family. It is normal for the two families to have friendly exchanges."
"I just wonder who from the Sheng family will be coming?"
Amidst the curious gazes of the guests, Sheng Yunqi and Ling Shu alighted from the car one after the other.
Upon seeing Ling Shu dressed in a black and white gown, the crowd fell silent for a moment.
"The maid from the Ling family who was sent as a substitute bride has also arrived?"
"Pah, pah, pah! Why are you still thinking about the substitute marriage? Ling Shu now owns a full five percent of the Sheng family's shares, more than Sheng Yunqi next to her!"
"I heard she attended the investment reception a few days ago. This lady seems to have changed her style recently and become more high-profile."
"Sigh, if I had shares worth tens of billions, I would also be high-profile."
Ling Shu listened calmly to the intermittent chatter that drifted into her ears.
Upon seeing them appear, the Li family members warmly greeted them: "President Sheng, Miss Ling, we've been waiting for you. Please come in."
Ling Shu recognized the person who came to welcome her; it was one of Li Yin's assistants.
The fact that she was addressed as "Miss Ling" instead of "Mrs. Sheng" suggests that Li Yin had specifically instructed him to do so.
The two of them entered the banquet hall, guided by their assistant.
Li Yin, who was standing not far away, happened to turn his head and see them. A smile appeared in his eyes as he quickly walked over. Today, he was wearing a gunmetal gray suit that accentuated his tall and perfect figure, attracting the attention of many women along the way.
"Ling Shu, you've arrived."
Ling Shu nodded to him, indicating, "I'm here."
Li Yin was interrupted halfway through his concerned words by a suddenly appearing, aged voice.
"You must be the Ling family's maid?"
Li Yin stopped speaking and turned to look at the source of the sound.
Old Master Li, with his white hair and beard, slowly walked over, leaning on his cane, his sharp, eagle-like eyes scrutinizing Ling Shu.
Sheng Yunqi frowned inwardly, feeling somewhat uncomfortable with such a gaze.
He shifted his feet, trying to block Old Master Li's gaze. Ling Shu took his hand and calmly replied, "Hello, Grandpa Li."
Old Master Li softened his sharp gaze, a smile playing on his lips, his tone kind: "When you and Yun Shen got married, I happened to have something to attend to and couldn't attend your wedding. Girl, how have you been doing in the Sheng family?"
Ling Shu smiled and replied, "I'm doing well, thank you for your concern, Grandpa."
Grandpa Li nodded, turned to look at Li Yin, and instructed, "I heard that you and Ling girl are on good terms, so treat her well and don't neglect her."
As he spoke, he patted Li Yin's shoulder with his aged hand.
They seemed to be very affectionate.
Li Yin replied, "Yes, Grandpa."
Grandpa Li politely explained to Ling Shu and the other woman, "I still have to go welcome some old friends, so please excuse me."
After saying hello, he slowly left, leaning on his cane.
Li Yin turned his head and silently watched the old man's departing figure, his dark eyes devoid of any emotion.
Sheng Yunqi whispered to Ling Shu, "There are rumors that the old man and President Li have a tense relationship, but it seems that they are just rumors."
Ling Shu smiled without saying a word.
Rumor? How could it be a rumor?
She reached out and tugged at Li Yin's sleeve: "You go ahead and do your work, don't worry about us."
Li Yin withdrew his gaze, frowning apologetically: "I'm sorry, Ling Shu, I'll come find you later."
The assistant stepped forward at the right moment and guided the two of them to a private room upstairs.
He shrugged helplessly at Ling Shu.
Ling Shu gave him a "good luck" look and followed her assistant upstairs alone.
A woman dressed in exquisite and gorgeous clothes, with a pale face.
The assistant frowned, wanting to shoo the woman away: "Miss, there are guests in the private room."
Ling Shu shook her head at him: "It's okay, it's someone I know. You can go ahead and do your work."
After her assistant left, she entered the private room, closed the door, and calmly looked at the woman sitting there.
"Bai Yue, it's been a long time."
Even though it had only been a month, Bai Yue seemed to have completely changed.
Her clothes and jewelry looked incredibly valuable, but her eyes had become empty, like those of a doll without self-awareness.
Life in the Zhao family must not have been so easy.
Upon hearing Ling Shu's voice, the empty "doll" finally reacted, blinking slightly and looking up at Ling Shu.
Bai Yue held her head high as if trying to maintain the last shred of dignity: "Long time no see."
Ling Shu sat down opposite her: "Tell me, why did you come to see me?"
Bai Yue did not answer immediately, but scrutinized Ling Shu with a critical gaze.
After a while, she sneered, "Looks like you're doing well. Well, the Sheng family dotes on you like the apple of their eye, of course you're doing well."
"Bai Yue, we have no relationship whatsoever, and there's no need for pleasantries."
Ling Shu calmly replied, "Just say what you have to say."
The fake smile on Bai Yue's face vanished instantly.
She stared intently at Ling Shu, somewhat unwillingly, her tone sharp with resentment: "I kindly came to remind you, and this is your attitude?"
"remind?"
Ling Shu raised an eyebrow sharply. "What, is the Zhao family up to something again?"
Bai Yue shut her mouth, a look of regret flashing across her face.
The words have already been spoken, and it's too late to regret them now.
She thought for a moment and then blurted it all out: "Before I came here, I overheard Zhao Liheng and Su Yao plotting in their room to do something to you at the banquet. But they were speaking too softly, and I didn't hear the details."
Ling Shu knew that Su's mother and Su Yao had moved into the Zhao family's house after being kicked out of the house, and she wasn't too surprised to hear that Zhao Liheng and Su Yao had conspired together.
There was no fear.
"Thank you for reminding me, I will pay attention."
Bai Yue observed her reaction, but did not see the emotion she wanted to see, and frowned unhappily.
"Ling Shu, you're really good at pretending. The Zhao family has always been ruthless and has no bottom line. Aren't you afraid at all?"
Ling Shu and Bai Yue exchanged glances, and Ling Shu asked, "Since you know the Zhao family is ruthless, why did you dare to come all the way here to remind me?"
To be honest, compared to the Zhao family's scheming, Bai Yue's reminder surprised Ling Shu more.
Bai Yue paused, looked away, and answered somewhat awkwardly, "...We've known each other for a while, and I don't want to see you get infected."
Ling Shu was too lazy to listen to her excuses: "Tell the truth."
Bai Yue pursed her lips, looking somewhat hesitant.
Ling Shu didn't urge her, and waited quietly.
The room was quiet for a few minutes.
Finally, Bai Yue let out a long sigh, lowered her gaze, and concealed her thoughts.
Her tone was cold and ruthless: "Ling Shu, I accidentally discovered that Sheng Yun Shen's car accident may be related to the Zhao family."
Sheng Yun Shen is Bai Yue's obsession since childhood, an unattainable dream girl.
When she overheard a conversation between Old Master Zhao and Zhao Liheng at the Zhao family home and discovered that the car accident might be related to the Zhao family, Bai Yue's world collapsed. She tossed and turned, unable to sleep every night, yet dared not let the news out.
After all, she only overheard it by chance, and there was no evidence to back it up. How could anyone believe it?
Besides, she's already a member of the Zhao family, so how can she possibly fight against the powerful Zhao family?
After much thought, Bai Yue thought of Ling Shu.
She disliked Ling Shu, yet she had a vague feeling that this matter could only be told to Ling Shu.
"Ling Shu, you must avenge Sheng Yun Shen. We can't let him become a vegetable in vain."
When Sheng Yun Shen was mentioned, a mixture of intense love and hate flashed in Bai Yue's eyes.
Of course, this hatred was not only directed at Sheng Yun Shen, but also at the Zhao family.
"The Zhao family are all beasts! I wish you could kill them all!"
It seems that Bai Yue's time at the Zhao family was indeed not very good.
Ling Shu was silent for a moment: "Take care of yourself, and don't let the Zhao family find out that you and I have met."
Bai Yue raised her hand and touched her lower abdomen, a hint of arrogance flashing across her face: "I have ways to protect myself, you should worry more about yourself."
Having said what she needed to say, she lingered, picked up her handbag, and turned to leave.
Hearing the door to the private room close, Ling Shu relaxed and leaned back lazily on the sofa.
"Doggy, what do you think of Bai Yue's words?"
Sheng Yunshen said calmly, "What she said is probably true. It seems that a lot will happen at this banquet. Host, although you are very skilled, you should also be careful and try not to give the Zhao family any opportunities."
Ling Shu asked again, "Bai Yue said that my husband's car accident might have been orchestrated by the Zhao family. Gouzi, do you think I should avenge him?"
Sheng Yun Shen remained silent for a moment.
He had actually already guessed it.
To be precise, immediately after waking up from the car accident and finding himself in a vegetative state, facing only endless darkness, Sheng Yun Shen had already pieced together the whole story and deduced that the accident was likely deliberate. He initially identified several possible culprits, among whom the Zhao family was one.
When Bai Yue appeared under the instructions of the Zhao family, Sheng Yun Shen was already certain that his car accident was related to the Zhao family.
Given the chance, he would certainly want to take revenge on the Zhao family and make them taste the same pain he had endured.
But if the price is that Ling Shu is also involved...
He only wanted her to be happy and free.
Sheng Yunshen replied, "Host, I suggest you act according to your capabilities and not force an enemy of the Zhao family for the sake of revenge. Perhaps when the end of the world comes, the Zhao family will naturally meet its end."
Ling Shu smiled and said, "That's true."
She picked up the fruit plate on the table and slowly started eating sunflower seeds, without continuing to discuss the issue with Sheng Yunshen.
About half an hour later, someone knocked on the door of the private room: "Ling Shu, it's me."
Li Yin has arrived.
Ling Shu walked over, opened the door, and welcomed him in, casually handing him a handful of sunflower seeds: "Tell me, what do you need my help with?"
Li Yin paused for a moment, then awkwardly took the melon seeds, his eyes softening: "Just being here is helping me."
"ah?"
Now it was Ling Shu's turn to be stunned.
Li Yin smiled and said, "Today is a tough battle that we have been preparing for. Ling Shu, I invited you here not to ask you to do anything for me."
"I just feel that if you were here, I might have more courage."
Courage?
Ling Shu nodded: "Okay, then I'll be here to witness your counterattack."
Li Yin's smile deepened.
There was a tacit understanding between him and Ling Shu; they didn't need to say much to understand each other's thoughts.
"The banquet is about to begin. Would you like to come down with me?"
"Walk."
Ling Shu stood up.
The two walked out of the private room one after the other. The banquet hall downstairs was already filled with cheerful music, bustling with people, and laughter could be heard from time to time.
It's very lively.
Li Yin stood at the top of the stairs and politely gestured for him to enter.
Ling Shu didn't stand on ceremony and walked ahead, lifting her skirt.
Downstairs in the crowd, Ling Xinyao swirled the champagne in her hand, absentmindedly dealing with the man who was fawning over her.
The moment Ling Shu stepped down the stairs, she seemed to sense something, turned her head to look at the stairwell, and her pupils contracted slightly.
Ling Shu, dressed in a black and white gown and adorned with precious jewelry, moved with graceful steps and exuded elegance.
Li Yin walked behind her, his gaze following her intently, his expression focused and gentle.
If you didn't know their identities, you'd probably think they were a loving couple.
Ling Xinyao gripped the wine glass tightly, her knuckles turning white from the force.
She dressed up carefully before coming, but Li Yin didn't even give her a second glance after she arrived.
Could it be that Li Yin really has unique tastes and insists on liking a married woman?!
-
Meanwhile, in a corner of the Li family banquet.
Su's mother and Su Yao sat together and whispered to each other.
Mother Su looked worried: "Ah Yao, are we really going to do this? The Sheng family is not someone to be trifled with. What if they hold us responsible?"
"Don't worry, the Zhao family has already taken care of things. Surveillance footage and witnesses are not problems."
Su Yao said lazily, "Besides, I didn't ask you to kill or set fires. It's just about finding an opportunity to make things difficult for Ling Shu. What's the big deal?"
Su's mother hesitated timidly: "Why, why should an old woman like me do this?"
Su Yao's eyes widened: "If you didn't do it, was I supposed to? You're too scared now? If you hadn't dared to cheat on us back then, would we have ended up like this?"
Mother Su swallowed hard: "Ayao, why don't we go and seek refuge with the Sheng family? Ruomeng is still your own sister, even if she's from a different father. She's kind-hearted, and if we say a few nice words, she'll definitely forgive us. The Zhao family... the Zhao family is really no good."
Su Yao sneered.
He has a lot to lose face. After all that trouble with the Sheng family, do you really expect him to bow his head and apologize? Absolutely not.
"Enough with the nagging, just do as I say!"
Su's mother dared not speak.
A sneer suddenly came from the side: "They really are a pair of good dogs raised by the Zhao family."
Su Yao suddenly turned his head to look over.
Bai Yue leaned against the wall, arms crossed over her chest, her expression mocking.
Upon seeing her, Su Yao's expression shifted. From initial ferocity to later apprehension, and finally to disdain.
"Aren't you Zhao Liheng's dog too? Who's more noble than whom?"
Bai Yue curled her lip dismissively: "No matter what, at least I didn't betray everyone or sell my soul."
She came specifically to find Su Yao and his mother, intending to persuade them to give up on dealing with the Sheng family. However, she and Su Yao would argue every time they met, probably because they were simply incompatible.
Since that's the case, Bai Yue didn't bother to persuade her anymore.
With Ling Shu's abilities, those two idiots from the Su family will definitely be the ones to suffer.
She simply turned and left.
Su Yao watched her leave with a dark look in his eyes, his gaze filled with malice.
"He's just a lowly plaything, yet he dares to provoke us. Don't give me a chance, or else..."
-
The banquet officially began.
Li Yin and Old Master Li stood side by side on the stage. Li Yin first tapped his wine glass with a silver spoon. The room fell silent, and everyone looked at the legendary young CEO, Li Yin.
Li Yin stood ramrod straight and gave a brief speech: "Thank you all for attending this banquet. I hope you all enjoy the food, drinks, and fun."
Before he could finish speaking, Old Master Li smiled and continued, "Everyone here is a good friend of the Li family. Since my health deteriorated, I haven't seen you all as often, but our friendship will never change. Li Yin is my most prized grandson; he has taken excellent care of the Li family, and I am now completely at ease..."
Unlike Li Yin's composure and restraint, Old Master Li seemed kind and gentle, even a bit talkative, and once he started talking, he would never stop.
Just like the kind and gentle elders you often see in the home.
As he rambled on, many of the guests present looked thoughtful.
Rumors of discord between Li Yin and Old Master Li had already spread throughout the capital, but now it seems that the two actually have a harmonious relationship.
It seems rumors shouldn't be taken too seriously.
After all, Li Yin was personally trained by Old Master Li and was genuinely outstanding. With such a grandson, Old Master Li could certainly let go easily and enjoy his retirement.
After muttering for a few minutes, Old Master Li came to his senses and smiled sheepishly, "Ah, as people get older, they talk more. I won't waste any more words. I hope everyone has a good time."
He nodded to Li Yin.
Li Yin reached out and carefully helped him down the stage.
Judging from the way the grandfather and grandson looked, no one would dare to say that there was any conflict between them.
The atmosphere at the banquet immediately became more relaxed.
The atmosphere will be even better after a few more drinks.
Of course, while she was happy, Ling Shu didn't forget her business. She had already spotted Su Yao and his mother in the banquet hall and had been keeping an eye on them out of the corner of her eye. But Su Yao and his mother remained huddled in a corner, seemingly waiting for something.
Li Yin appeared perfectly normal, chatting casually with the guests alongside Old Master Li, showing no sign of the ruthless measures he had prepared.
Halfway through the banquet, a disheveled middle-aged man rushed into the venue, heading straight for Li Yin, and let out a shrill roar, finally setting the stage for today's grand spectacle.
"Li Yin, you scum!"
The noisy banquet hall fell silent instantly.
The guests stared wide-eyed in utter astonishment at the man who had burst into the room.
Some guests recognized the person who had arrived.
"Isn't that General Manager Liu?"
"Tch, what Mr. Liu? Liu Dachun is bankrupt, he doesn't deserve the title of Mr. Liu anymore."
"I heard he's been having a run of bad luck lately. His company went bankrupt, his son got arrested for a crime, and his wife is sick and hospitalized. He's barely managing to take care of himself, how dare he cause trouble at the Li family's banquet?"
"Speaking of which, Liu Dachun seems to be related to the Li family."
In short, there's some juicy gossip!
Everyone tried to maintain their composure, but their bodies betrayed them, parting the sea like waves guided by a shepherd's staff, making way for Liu Dachun. At the end of the path, Li Yin and Old Master Li stood side by side, looking at Liu Dachun.
Liu Dachun didn't stand on ceremony and walked forward step by step, his bloodshot eyes fixed on Li Yin.
As the two drew closer, Old Master Li stroked his beard and spoke first: "Da Chun? What happened to you?"
Liu Dachun stopped in his tracks, looked at Old Master Li, his legs went weak, and he knelt down heavily.
He lay prostrate on the ground, crying out in a shrill voice, "Grandpa, please save my family! Li Yin wants to kill me!"
These words caused an uproar.
Liu Dachun barged into the banquet, apparently intending to publicly denounce Li Yin!
Old Master Li looked surprised and subconsciously glanced at Li Yin. Li Yin remained calm, his eyes indifferent, showing no reaction to Liu Dachun's words.
After a moment's thought, Old Master Li asked Li Yin for his opinion: "Is there some misunderstanding between you and Da Chun? You're all relatives, why don't we all sit down together and talk it out?"
Li Yin replied, "I'll leave it to the old man."
Grandpa Li nodded and stepped forward to help Liu Dachun up: "Dachun, get up quickly, let's talk things out. I believe Li Yin is a good kid, and he would never do such a heinous thing."
When he said the words "outrageous and immoral," Li Yin raised an eyebrow slightly, a faint hint of mockery flashing in his eyes.
With Old Master Li's help, Liu Dachun slowly straightened up, wiping away the tears on his face with both hands: "Old Master, you've been deceived by Li Yin! He's a heartless and wicked bastard!"
Old Master Li frowned: "Da Chun, I won't allow you to talk about him like that until we figure out the truth."
Ling Shu watched the charade between Old Master Li and Liu Dachun from the crowd.
[Tsk, that was a pretty good performance. Experience really pays off; his acting was definitely top-notch.]
Beside her, Sheng Yunqi held his phone, the camera pointed at the center of the crowd.
He kept his promise and gave Su Ruomeng a live broadcast.
Hearing Ling Shu's inner thoughts, Sheng Yunqi focused his attention and observed carefully. Sure enough, he discovered that Old Master Li and Liu Dachun were exchanging glances, clearly a conversation that had been rehearsed in advance.
Tsk.
While live-streaming, he sent a message to Su Ruomeng: "Wife, I zoomed in on the camera. Look closely, those two were actually in cahoots all along; it was all an act!"
While Sheng Yunqi had Ling Shu's insightful advice, the other guests who were unaware of the truth were not so lucky. Apart from a few astute individuals, most ordinary onlookers sided with Old Master Li, and some even offered their support.
"The old man is right. Let's all speak openly about what's going on."
"Liu Dachun, stop kneeling here. Stand up and talk properly. I believe President Li will give you an explanation."
As more and more people tried to persuade him, Old Master Li tightened his grip on Liu Dachun's hand, signaling him to stop.
Liu Dachun received the signal and stood up accordingly.
He glared at Li Yin with hatred: "Fine, I'll expose your true colors as a hypocrite in front of everyone!"
After making his tough statement, Liu Dachun turned and walked towards the stage in the center of the banquet. He strode confidently to the microphone and unleashed his ultimate move.
"Li Yin, I've investigated everything! My company went bankrupt, and my son was arrested—it was all your doing!"
As he spoke, he pulled a file folder from his crumpled clothes and waved it at the guests.
"I've compiled all the evidence, everyone can take a look! Every single one of these things is the work of Li Yin's men!"
Seeing that even the evidence had been presented, Old Master Li hesitated and turned to instruct the Li family member beside him: "Sixth son, go and see what Liu Dachun's so-called evidence is."
Xiao Liu nodded, walked onto the stage, took the folder from Liu Dachun, and carefully looked at it for a few moments.
His expression changed slightly, and he looked up at Old Master Li, looking somewhat uneasy.
He seemed a little guilty and in the wrong.
Old Master Li's brows furrowed even more.
He stepped forward: "Let me see it!"
Xiao Liuzi stepped down from the stage and handed the documents to Old Master Li.
Old Master Li flipped through the pages anxiously, his expression growing increasingly grim.
A few minutes later, he looked up at Li Yin, his lips trembling slightly, his expression full of disbelief: "Child, this... did you really do all of this?"
Li Yin stood with his hands in his pockets, his expression indifferent, but his answer was astonishing: "Yes."
Old Master Li
"I proactively reported Liu Dachun's company for suspected tax evasion and financial fraud, and I also proactively reported the criminal facts of Liu Dachun's son's group drug use." Li Yin tilted his head and smiled faintly, "I've only done good things, Grandpa."
Old Master Li was heartbroken. "Da Chun is your family. According to seniority, you should call him uncle!"
"oh?"
Li Yin repeated his words with a playful expression.
"uncle?"
Perhaps because his attitude was too arrogant, the Li family members who were watching couldn't help but speak up and criticize him.
"Li Yin, how dare you speak to the old man like that!"
"The Li family values family ties the most. How could President Li treat Liu Dachun like this? He's aiming to ruin Liu's family. He's really ruthless."
"No wonder Liu Dachun publicly criticized him."
"Tsk tsk, that's ruthless."
The Li family members were all talking at once, and they all looked very angry.
In the crowd, Sheng Yunqi scratched his head in confusion.
He couldn't understand the Li family's logic.
According to Li Yin, Liu Dachun's company and son deserved their fate; it wasn't that Li Yin deliberately framed them. Could the Li family members be so angry because they themselves are dishonest, and they're feeling a sense of shared misfortune?
He quickly sent a message to Su Ruomeng, complaining: "Wife, I think Li Yin is right, it's these members of the Li family who have the wrong stance."
Regardless of what outsiders think, the Li family members became increasingly agitated as they spoke.
"Li Yin dares to harm even his own family members. Does he even deserve to be the head of the Li family?"
"Liu Dachun is unlucky today, but tomorrow it might be you and me!"
Someone started it up, shouting at Old Master Li, "Old Master, please reconsider! The head of the Li family shouldn't be a heartless and ungrateful person!"
It won a lot of approval.
"Yes, yes, the head of the family should win people over with virtue!"
"What kind of family head can't even protect his own family members?"
"I've disliked Li Yin for a long time. He always has a sour face, and asking him to do something is harder than climbing to heaven..."
Soon, more and more people started talking, and even some guests who weren't members of the Li family came out to join in the fun.
Just moments ago, Li Yin was revered by everyone, but in the blink of an eye, his status changed drastically, and he became someone that everyone wanted to beat up, with even a passing dog able to curse him.
Li Yin remained calm throughout, his face revealing no emotion.
It was as if these words could not leave any trace in his heart.
Amidst the rising tide of condemnation from the Li family and some guests, Old Master Li took a deep breath, his grief seemingly solidifying on his face.
He abruptly closed his eyes, and when he opened them again, his cloudy eyes were filled with sorrowful tears. The way he looked at Li Yin was as if he were looking at a loved one who had fallen into an abyss and was beyond redemption.
"you……"
He pointed at Li Yin, his finger trembling slightly, "Li Yin, you really went too far this time."
"Even if Liu Dachun really made a mistake, you have a hundred or a thousand ways to help him make amends and salvage everything. But you chose the most ruthless one, directly destroying Liu Dachun's family! The head of the Li family shouldn't be so heartless and ungrateful!"
"What a misfortune for our family! The moral order has been lost!"
Old Master Li's voice suddenly rose in pitch, resounding throughout the banquet hall.
He abruptly shifted his gaze from Li Yin to all the guests and members of the Li family, and made a momentous decision.
“Li Yin is still young, and he may sometimes act rashly when handling matters. In order to gain the respect of others and to make him reflect on his mistakes, I have decided to temporarily remove Li Yin from his position as head of the Li family, effective today! I will temporarily take over the affairs of the Li Group and the family.”
His aged yet sharp gaze swept across the entire room. Amidst the expressions of shock, bewilderment, fear, and schadenfreude, he didn't glance at Li Yin again. The outcome was decided; the target he had brought down through accident and public opinion no longer required any further effort.
Old Master Li slowly and heavily closed his eyes, as if he had been exhausted by this "extremely difficult" decision and needed to rest for a while.
The guests looked at each other, somewhat bewildered, wondering how things had suddenly turned out this way.
Sheng Yunqi was also stunned.
While still bewildered, he didn't forget to chat with Su Ruomeng: "Wife, is this the legendary 'releasing military power over a cup of wine'?"
“Li Yin is in a very passive position now. Once he loses the support of Old Master Li and the affirmation of the Li family, it will be difficult for him to keep his position as the head of the family.”
After all, Li Yin was able to rise to prominence among so many people in the Li family this generation only because of Old Master Li.
Old Master Li was the mastermind behind it all, stirring up trouble.
So, is Old Master Li going to give up on Li Yin?
After a while, Old Master Li said again, "Child, you used to be in charge of the Li family's expansion into overseas markets. Now go to the United States. It's a place where everything is in need of rebuilding, and it's a good place for you to put your talents to use."
Sheng Yunqi's eyes widened in surprise.
This is not just giving up, it's being exiled.
The old man wants to send Li Yin abroad, completely away from the power center of the Li family!
He couldn't help but worry about Li Yin.
From the moment he left until now, Li Yin had remained silent, standing there quietly as if the surrounding noise had nothing to do with him.
If this continues, the situation will be beyond saving!
From the perspective of the Sheng family, the cooperative relationship between the Sheng family and the Li family was driven by Li Yin. If Old Master Li successfully drives Li Yin away, the cooperation between the two families may also encounter changes.
Sheng Yunqi frowned, intending to speak up and defend Li Yin.
He felt that Li Yin was right.
After a moment of hesitation, just as he was about to speak, Ling Shu, who was beside him, reached out and gently tugged at the hem of his clothes.
Sheng Yunqi paused and turned to look at Ling Shu.
Ling Shu shook her head without showing any emotion.
Sheng Yunqi was immediately relieved.
Looks like he won't be filming today, so I can just relax and be a bystander.
At the same time, Li Yin finally spoke.
He said calmly, "Supervising and reporting illegal and criminal activities is the duty of every citizen. Sir, are you suggesting that covering up crimes is the right thing to do?"
Just now, Li Yin was calling Old Master Li "Grandpa," but now he's too lazy to hide it and just calls him "Old Master."
Old Master Li paused slightly with his cane, seemingly not expecting Li Yin to directly challenge him.
His cheeks twitched, and he forced a seemingly kind smile: "Child, as I just said, there are clearly more suitable ways to solve this problem. Why do you insist on choosing the one that causes the most harm? As the head of the family, the honor and disgrace, rise and fall of the entire family are closely related to you. You must take into account both affection and righteousness, kinship and justice. You cannot only care about one aspect."
He waved his hand, trying to end the discussion on this topic, "You still have a long way to go on the road to becoming the head of the family. Going out to gain experience for a few years will be a good thing for you. I'm getting old, and the future of the Li family ultimately belongs to you, my child, don't be impatient."
The implication of Old Master Li's words was that Li Yin's questioning stemmed from his unwillingness to relinquish the honor of being the head of the Li family.
"oh?"
Li Yin's fingers rubbed against the metal cufflinks as he spoke slowly and deliberately, "Perhaps I am not a qualified head of the family, but I think I am a qualified good citizen."
He raised his eyes, a sharp glint in his deep black eyes, and met Old Master Li's gaze directly, showing no sign of backing down.
"When faced with a dilemma between love and duty, I choose to sacrifice love for duty. Today, I will prove it with my actions."
Old Master Li raised his eyebrows slightly, his expression stiffening for a moment.
He moved his fingers, seemingly preparing to formulate some persuasive words.
But Li Yin didn't give him a chance.
Li Yin turned his head and looked around at the guests present, who had various expressions.
He raised his voice: "I, Li Yin, am filing a formal complaint against Li Jianguo for child abduction, intentional injury, forgery, and obstruction of justice!"
Li Jianguo is the given name of Old Master Li, and for many years no one has dared to call him that in front of him.
The guests were stunned by Li Yin's words and all looked at Old Master Li.
Old Master Li's face was gloomy, so dark it was almost dripping with water: "Li Yin, what nonsense are you spouting?!"
Li Yin smiled and said, "Twenty years ago, you instructed seventeen people to break into my house and forcibly take me away. My mother tried to stop them but was pushed to the ground and fainted on the spot. No one there cared about her. They took me away in a car and put me on a plane to go abroad. Li Jianguo, doesn't this count as child abduction and intentional injury?"
Like a pebble thrown into water, these words caused an even greater stir among the guests.
Those familiar with the Li family, in particular, couldn't help but gasp in shock. The mother was Old Master Li's third daughter-in-law, surnamed Hong, from the Hong family of Haicheng. Unfortunately, her health wasn't good; after marriage, she spent her time recuperating abroad and passed away a few years later.
Li Yin is said to be the child of Madam Hong, born abroad. Because he inherited his mother's poor health when he was young, he was raised abroad.
Now, listening to Li Yin's words, it seems there's more to his background than meets the eye!
He wasn't Madam Hong's child at all; he was an illegitimate son of the Li family. The Li family went to such lengths to snatch him from his mother!
Old Master Li's expression changed drastically.
He probably didn't expect that Li Yin would reveal these hidden past events in front of so many people.
After a moment's hesitation, Old Master Li softened his tone and gently advised, "These are all family matters of the Li family. If you are not satisfied with my decision just now, we can talk about it slowly after we get off the banquet. We are at a banquet now, so let's not make a fool of ourselves in front of outsiders, okay?"
Forced to this point by Li Yin, Old Master Li, who had just been about to "sacrifice his own family for the greater good," had no choice but to back down.
A smile flickered in Li Yin's eyes, but it was a cold and deep smile, devoid of any joy, only filled with unfathomable hatred and regret.
He paused, then his smile became even more ruthless and mocking.
The crowd erupted in uproar again, like water droplets falling into boiling oil, instantly becoming noisy.
"Father? Li Yin calls Old Master Li 'father'?"
"Isn't he the old man's grandson?"
"My god, this is so complicated? The son is recognizing his father as his son?"
Amidst the murmurs of the crowd, Li Yin's gaze shifted, subtly meeting Ling Shu's eyes in the crowd.
Ling Shu gave him a reassuring, gentle smile.
The excitement, shock, doubt, and bewilderment of those around her had no effect on her whatsoever. Against this irritating backdrop of noise, she was like the only gentle and serene color reflected in his pupils.
His heart settled down.
Sure enough, she knew everything.
Ling Shu...
For a fleeting moment, he was distracted, silently uttering her name on the tip of his tongue; those two simple words conveyed a thousand emotions.
Ling Shu.
After a brief moment, as if he had been burned, he abruptly withdrew his gaze, composed himself, and looked again at the other protagonist of the incident.
"Father, you forged the paternity test and birth record back then, making me my third brother's son. My mother, dragging her ailing body, went everywhere to plead for help, but you secretly arranged for people to suppress it, forcing her to die with resentment. Every single one of these things is a crime!"
Li Yin curled his lips into a smile.
The brief eye contact with Ling Shu just now felt like a "recharge," filling his heart with strength.
Ignoring the curious glances of those around him, and the ruthless glint in Old Master Li's eyes, he seemed to devour anyone he could.
Li Yin shrugged. "Sorry."
Sheng Yunqi was stunned. His hand went limp and he almost dropped his phone. But when he remembered that Su Ruomeng was watching the live stream on the other end of the phone, he immediately straightened his arm and corrected his posture.
This is truly a shocking revelation!
At crucial moments, the camera must stay on track; you have to make sure your wife gets a good shot of the melon!
Old Master Li swayed, a look of disbelief flashing across his aged face for a moment.
Li Yin had known all along that he was going to cause trouble at the banquet, and had already prepared countermeasures! No wonder Li Yin remained so calm even after he had said so much.
So they were confident of victory and were just watching his performance!
Having lived for so many years, this was the first time that Old Master Li felt a sense of tension and helplessness, as if facing a formidable enemy.
The whispers and comments from those around him made him feel extremely uncomfortable and embarrassed.
However, having been in the business world for many years, after a brief moment of panic, Old Master Li quickly calmed down and reviewed the whole incident in his mind.
Those who handled this matter back then were all his trusted confidants; they would never betray him.
Li Yin said these words most likely just to provoke him, to throw him into a state of confusion, and to make him reveal his true colors.
Oh.
childish.
It's just a family scandal; he wouldn't care at all.
Old Master Li's thoughts raced, but he quickly calmed down, gripped his cane tightly again, and stood ramrod straight.
“Li Yin, I did wrong your mother back then. But she voluntarily entrusted you to my care, and I gave her a large sum of money as compensation.”
Speaking is an art, and when truth and falsehood are intertwined, it becomes even more difficult to distinguish between them.
Old Master Li's expression was both sincere and heartbroken, truly resembling that of an old father deeply hurt by his disobedient son.
"So many years have passed since this incident, and your mother has long since passed away. I think we should not disturb her peace any further, okay?"
Li Yin curled the corners of his lips: "Oh? A normal relationship, voluntary foster care?"
Old Master Li did not back down at all: "Yes."
He was certain that Li Yin had no concrete evidence.
"Oh."
Li Yin chuckled and turned to look in another direction.
"Why don't you tell everyone what exactly happened back then?"
Old Master Li's gaze followed closely, and after clearly seeing who Li Yinwen was talking to, his expression changed drastically once again.
How... how could it be him?!
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