After Becoming a Spare Tire, I Got Together with My White Moonlight - Chapter 59

Yan Guiqiu’s hand hovered in mid-air. Thinking of the rest of the Jiang family, she felt she could understand Jiang Xuehe’s unease.

This was the place where she had grown up, yet she had been unable to leave behind even a single trace of herself. No matter how strong a person was, returning to an old haunt and being flooded with memories of the past would inevitably bring a sense of melancholy.

Yan Guiqiu finally softened. She reached out and patted Jiang Xuehe’s back. “…Fine. I’ll stay with you tonight.”

Jiang Xuehe gave a muffled hum of response and pulled Yan Guiqiu even tighter.

Those words weren’t a lie told just to trick Yan Guiqiu into staying. If she had returned home before meeting Yan Guiqiu, seeing her old room might not have evoked much emotion. But after meeting her, perhaps because there was now a point of comparison, the emptiness felt like a thorn in her throat.

As a lover, Yan Guiqiu seemed a bit clingy. In the time they had been together, they were almost inseparable, sticking to each other whenever they had a spare moment. Even Xiao He had privately grumbled that they were much mushier than other young couples.

But Jiang Xuehe didn’t think there was anything wrong with it. This leisure time she could spend with her lover might only last these few short months. Once she truly began handling company affairs, it wasn’t impossible that they wouldn’t see each other for months at a time. Under such a premise, it was only natural to seize every second they could share.

However, thinking back, the person with such an urgent need was actually only Jiang Xuehe. Yan Guiqiu had friends, classmates, school activities, and her own hobbies; as long as she wished, she would never be bored. Conversely, staying by the same person’s side for a long duration required endless patience and willpower to prevent simple passion from being eroded.

Sometimes Jiang Xuehe couldn’t help but think pessimistically that perhaps Yan Guiqiu was the one losing out by choosing to be with her. She had taken on a mountain of pressure for no reason, yet it was difficult for her to enjoy the same selfless, pure, and meticulous care and sacrifice she gave to others.

Then, Jiang Xuehe realized that in a romantic relationship, one needn’t talk about who owes whom. This wasn’t a business deal where everything had to be an equivalent exchange. If there was anything that had to be exchanged, it was perhaps only the word “sincerity.”

Yan Guiqiu gradually drifted off to sleep. Jiang Xuehe lay beside her, watching her sleeping face, and finally began to relax. As her consciousness blurred, she couldn’t help but think: Thank goodness it’s her.

When Yan Guiqiu decided to give her heart to someone, very few people could refuse her. When she spoke of love, no one could remain unmoved. Thank goodness the one she loves is me.

Jiang Xuehe also slowly sank into dreamland.

The two of them slept well at the Jiang house, but they didn’t wake up quite early enough the next morning. By the time they finished washing up and went downstairs, Mrs. Jiang was already awake.

Yan Guiqiu and Jiang Xuehe were sitting at the table eating breakfast when they heard a flurry of hurried footsteps from upstairs. Mrs. Jiang came running down, with a nanny chasing after her trying to drape a coat over her shoulders.

“…Why didn’t you wake me up last night?” Mrs. Jiang complained with a hint of anger. “A guest arrived while I was sleeping; isn’t that far too rude?”

The nanny looked sheepish and didn’t dare answer. Even though it wasn’t her decision, she had no room to argue when the mistress was losing her temper. This was wisdom gained from years of experience.

Jiang Xuehe had just finished her breakfast. Hearing the commotion, she looked up at her mother and explained, “I told the auntie not to disturb your rest. Guiqiu doesn’t mind such small things.”

Hearing this, Mrs. Jiang’s expression softened a bit, but she still said for the sake of appearances, “There’s a guest here, after all. This isn’t good. Don’t do it next time.”

Jiang Xuehe gave a non-committal “mhm.”

Yan Guiqiu had also just finished her meal. While they spoke, she used the corner of her eye to observe Mrs. Jiang. Although she had just come downstairs, she had changed her clothes and even applied light makeup. Whether it was due to good maintenance or the makeup, she looked much younger than her actual age.

Perhaps because she was at home and didn’t have anyone to be angry at, she looked much softer than she had back at the hospital.

Jiang Xuehe resembled her mother closely in appearance, but their temperaments were worlds apart. At first glance, both had “gentle” features, but compared to her mother, Jiang Xuehe’s gentleness was reserved, poised, and non-aggressive without being a “pushover.” Mrs. Jiang, on the other hand…

It might have been inappropriate, but a word flashed through Yan Guiqiu’s mind: Dodder.

Despite the similar looks, Mrs. Jiang was more mature and older, and she had managed to get into university in her youth and had previously stood her ground against the Qins. By all accounts, she shouldn’t have been associated with that word. But looking at her demeanor at home, the term wouldn’t leave Yan Guiqiu’s head.

Especially when Mr. Jiang came down. Even in her fifties, the way she leaned into her husband’s arms and acted coy didn’t seem out of place at all.

Yan Guiqiu sat there watching the show until Jiang Xuehe nudged her arm, signaling they could leave. As the two stood up, Mrs. Jiang finally snapped back to reality and came over to greet Yan Guiqiu.

She started, as expected, by explaining why she hadn’t come out to meet the guest last night. Naturally, she didn’t mention that she was frustrated by being grounded at home; she only said she was so happy Xuehe was coming back that she hadn’t slept well for several nights, and thus accidentally overslept.

She didn’t blame anyone, of course, only her own sleepiness, repeatedly asking for Yan Guiqiu’s forgiveness while asking in detail if she had slept well. Yan Guiqiu was startled by the excessive enthusiasm, but she quickly realized the reason behind it.

After her long speech, Mrs. Jiang finally cut to the chase. “It’s rare for you to visit; why did you come alone?” she asked tentatively. “I heard that friend of yours, Miss Luan, recently…”

“Mom,” Jiang Xuehe interrupted from the side. “We have to go.”

Mrs. Jiang froze. “So soon? Are you going out for a stroll?”

Jiang Xuehe checked the time. “Grandpa told Guiqiu and me to go over early this morning.”

Upon hearing mention of the old man, Mrs. Jiang’s expression changed visibly. Her face stiffened, and she didn’t dare say another word to stop them.

Mr. Jiang, standing beside her, gave his wife a reassuring pat on the back. “The old man hasn’t seen Xuehe in a long time; it’s only right that he wants her there early.”

Mrs. Jiang nodded stiffly.

“You rest at home. I have a meeting at the office, but I’ll come back later to pick you up and we can go together,” Mr. Jiang said to his wife.

Jiang Xuehe said her goodbyes and led Yan Guiqiu out.

They stood at the intersection outside the residential area for a moment. Yan Guiqiu had originally thought they would take a taxi, but a car arrived to pick them up. Jiang Xuehe led her into the back seat, greeted the driver, and introduced them.

This was the elder Mr. Jiang’s driver. He had worked for him for over a decade and had practically watched Jiang Xuehe grow up. Jiang Xuehe treated him with respect, calling him “Uncle Song.”

Uncle Song looked like a very honest, sturdy middle-aged man. If he stood outside, no one would doubt he was a bodyguard, but since they had entered the car, he had been smiling cheerfully. He seemed to have a very good temper.

Jiang Xuehe asked how many people were already there, and Uncle Song was able to give her the details.

The elder Mr. Jiang was getting older and couldn’t handle everything personally. Unfortunately, his eldest grandson was incompetent and hadn’t reached the level where he could stand on his own, and he trusted his son even less. Thus, he brought some of his work back to the old residence.

The old residence was in the suburbs; the air was fresh, far from the noise of the city, which was good for his health. The best hospital was in the neighboring city, so it was actually closer if anything happened. The house was also equipped with a family doctor, and the old man’s recent physical exams were healthy, so there was no immediate cause for concern.

However, after staying at the old residence for a long time, the biggest downside was the quiet. The old man had begun to enjoy calling old friends or juniors over for tea and meals, even hiring three top chefs specifically for the residence.

Usually, he called one or two people over, but having the whole family present like today usually only happened during the Lunar New Year. But looking back five or six years, Jiang Xuehe had never been among them.

Most people already knew the real reason for this family gathering, though they were still in the stage of suspicion. Since the old man had spoken, anyone without urgent business naturally rushed over to watch the spectacle.

Uncle Song told Jiang Xuehe that so-and-so from so-and-so’s family had already arrived, and Jiang Xuehe whispered explanations to Yan Guiqiu.

The Jiang family wealth only spanned three generations, but there were quite a few members. The elder Mr. Jiang had three sons and three daughters. His eldest son had died young, and his three daughters had long since married out; they weren’t particularly capable, having the heart to help their father but not the ability.

The youngest son was too young—only about the same age as Jiang Xueyang—but he was dim-witted, even more so than his nephew. Among his biological children, only the second son, Jiang Xuehe’s father, had some ability, but his character was poor. The old man never intended to treat him as a candidate for successor.

In the grandchildren’s generation, counting Jiang Xueyang and Jiang Xuehe, there were only five children, three of whom were grandsons from the daughters’ side.

Aside from the direct line, the elder Mr. Jiang had many siblings and cousins who had started the business with him. Most of that older generation had passed away, but during holidays, their children and grandchildren would come to the old residence to pay their respects. Those with close ties to the Jiang Group visited even more frequently. Since the old man had spoken, none of the juniors dared to refuse.

Thus, even though it was still morning, many people had already arrived.

Jiang Xuehe didn’t expect Yan Guiqiu to remember everyone; after all, they wouldn’t be interacting much in the future. She focused on introducing several cousins she was on good terms with. There were only a few, but once they arrived at the old residence, Yan Guiqiu realized Jiang Xuehe was actually quite popular.

Most of those playing or strolling outside were children or young adults. People Jiang Xuehe called “Brother” or “Sister” were holding children and greeted her warmly, teaching their kids to address her.

Jiang Xuehe hadn’t expected so many people and hadn’t brought red envelopes, so she smiled and chatted, saying she would make it up to them next time. Throughout the walk, few people were neglectful or cold to her.

Yan Guiqiu realized after a bit of thought that the elder Mr. Jiang was still the one in charge. In the direct line of grandchildren, there were only Jiang Xueyang and Jiang Xuehe, and it was common knowledge that the brother’s talent couldn’t hold a candle to his sister’s.

Outsiders might mock Jiang Xuehe for her lack of “boldness” behind her back, but the family members who saw the old man often could sense his leanings. It was obvious that the old man was dissatisfied with Jiang Xueyang. The siblings were still young, and the old man was in good spirits with another decade or two of life ahead of him; nothing was set in stone for the future.

Rather than risking offending someone who might settle scores later, it was better to treat them as ordinary relatives. They would let the siblings fight their own battles in private while sticking to small talk about marriages, pregnancies, and birthdays when they met. At first glance, it truly felt like a typical family gathering during the New Year.

The elder Mr. Jiang was in his study. Hearing that Jiang Xuehe had arrived, he had someone bring her and Yan Guiqiu in.

Yan Guiqiu was carrying a pile of specialty gifts. She had to take a deep breath before she dared watch Jiang Xuehe knock.

“Come in,” the old man’s voice called from inside. Even through a thick door, one could tell he was in high spirits.

Jiang Xuehe pushed the door open and led Yan Guiqiu inside. There was no one else in the study at the moment. Through the window, one could see a vast lawn and flowerbeds—likely a smaller garden where no one was walking.

The elder Mr. Jiang was practicing calligraphy. He set his brush aside after finishing the last character and looked up. Seeing Jiang Xuehe, he couldn’t help but let a smile show before quickly masking it with a stern expression.

“You’ve been back so long and didn’t think to see this old man. Heartless little thing,” he grumbled.

It was he who had previously lost his temper and told Jiang Xuehe not to see him. It had been words spoken in anger, yet Jiang Xuehe had taken him at his word. But no one wanted to dwell on unpleasant topics right now.

Jiang Xuehe smiled and didn’t argue. “It’s my fault.”

Then she turned and signaled Yan Guiqiu to set the gifts by the door while she introduced her to her grandfather. She didn’t mention the Yan family, only that they were students in Yunhua City. But she didn’t need to; the old man surely knew everything already.

Yan Guiqiu felt more pressure than she ever had in her life. When the old man looked at her, she instinctively held her breath and straightened her back. Fortunately, he didn’t make things difficult for her; on the contrary, his attitude was quite kind.

“University in Yunhua? A top student then,” the old man said. “I heard from Xuehe that you’re graduating soon?”

“Yes, I graduate in June,” Yan Guiqiu answered honestly. “But I’ll be starting graduate school in the second half of the year.”

The old man nodded with satisfaction. “Education is good. Study as much as you can while you have the chance.” He studied Yan Guiqiu for a moment longer, then turned back to Jiang Xuehe. “Consider yourself lucky to have found such a treasure. Treat her well, and especially don’t let anything get in the way of her studies. Understand?”

Jiang Xuehe smiled helplessly and nodded. Yan Guiqiu was a bit overwhelmed by the old man’s pleasant attitude. Before the meeting, she had heard plenty of scary stories about him from Jiang Xuyu. It seemed this mogul’s favorite pastime was mocking people; even his own children were frequently scolded without any regard for their dignity.

Yan Guiqiu had prepared herself for some criticism—even Jiang Xuehe had been treated that way. Yet the reality was that he was so kind she felt a bit panicked.

The old man caught her startled expression and immediately guessed the reason. “Did that brat Jiang Xuyu badmouth me behind my back again?”

“He didn’t exactly say anything bad,” Yan Guiqiu said instinctively.

“So he did,” the old man noted.

Yan Guiqiu: “…”

Sorry, Uncle Song, I didn’t mean to. She mentally mourned for Jiang Xuyu for two seconds.

The old man wasn’t truly angry; he was clearly used to it. Still, he couldn’t help but huff. “He’s still holding a grudge over when I told him to reflect at home. That boy isn’t good for much else, but he’s top-tier at holding a grudge.”

He was referring to when Jiang Xuyu had been kicked out of the company by Jiang Xueyang due to his sexual orientation. Unlike Jiang Xueyang, whom he truly hated, Jiang Xuyu had some lingering resentment toward the old man because the mogul had practically worn a sign saying “Homosexuality is an illness” on his forehead back then.

However, that resentment was more the grumbling of a junior who felt misunderstood by a respected elder; it wasn’t true hatred. These past few years, he had been quite diligent in visiting the old residence on Jiang Xuehe’s behalf.

Later, the old man never used his sexual orientation to mock or discriminate against him. When Jiang Xuehe left and Jiang Xuyu prepared to go as well, the old man had even personally visited to ask him to stay. Seeing that Jiang Xuyu was determined to leave, he didn’t stop him, and even reached out to industry contacts to look after him during the early stages of his startup.

Based on that level of grace alone, Jiang Xuyu had always held the old man in high regard. But Jiang Xuyu was naturally irreverent. Once he left the Jiang Group, the old man was no longer his boss, so he became much more relaxed, even mocking the mogul’s personality to his face on occasion.

Ironically, the old man appreciated this kind of bold, unfaltering behavior. Combined with the connection to Jiang Xuehe, the two had a decent relationship despite their constant bickering.

“I thought about it later; I didn’t handle that matter fairly,” the old man said with a trace of melancholy. “I consulted experts later. Liking men is innate; if anyone is to blame, it’s his parents, or even further back. He bore the pressure and didn’t ruin some girl’s life just for personal gain. He’s bold and takes responsibility for his actions. At least he’s a man of character; he wouldn’t cheat or shirk responsibility in other matters…”

The old man began to praise Jiang Xuyu so much he could hardly stop.

Jiang Xuehe laughed. “If you said this to Xuyu’s face, Grandpa, he wouldn’t be spreading rumors about you every day.”

The old man instinctively shut his mouth and stiffened his face into a stern expression. A moment later, realizing the person in question wasn’t there, he gave a sheepish smile and huffed. “That boy can’t be praised to his face. He’d get too cocky. He needs a regular scolding to keep him humble and cautious.”

In short, he was just being stubborn. It was the same as telling Jiang Xuehe; the words would eventually reach Jiang Xuyu’s ears. But it was easier than saying it to his face.

Ultimately, it was because that incident had revealed Jiang Xuyu’s character and ability. The old man felt it was a mistake to have let such talent go because of a trivial prejudice. It was only because of Jiang Xuehe’s decisive reaction that people hadn’t truly been alienated.

In comparison, from Jiang Xueyang to Mr. Jiang—while they weren’t exactly incompetent—they were conventional types who became nervous at the slightest hint of public controversy. Their first instinct was never to seize an opportunity, but to avoid risk. Most importantly, people who were so afraid of risk were capable of losing their minds entirely over a specific person.

Thinking of his unlucky son and daughter-in-law, the old man felt a headache coming on and looked slightly disgusted. “Romance and marriage, men and women—in the end, there’s not much difference. Between men and women, there’s just the extra step of having children. But if you raise a disappointing one, it’s better not to have any at all,” he said. “Your father has had only one talent in his life: having a daughter.”

Jiang Xuehe found it hard to respond to that, so she simply smiled and said nothing.

The old man realized his slip and waved it off. “Enough of that useless talk. I don’t have anything else. Go out and chat with your cousins and relatives; you haven’t seen them in years. I’ll rest for a bit. Have Xiao Zhang call me before lunch.”

Jiang Xuehe nodded in agreement. Just as she was about to lead Yan Guiqiu away, the old man called them back.

“Look at my memory.” He beckoned Yan Guiqiu over and opened a drawer in his desk, pulling out a red envelope that had been prepared in advance. “A gift for our first meeting. Take it.”

It was a thin envelope, so it likely didn’t contain much money. Yan Guiqiu felt a sense of relief and took it without any burden. “Thank you, Grandpa.”

The old man smiled cheerfully and nodded, repeatedly telling her to study hard and to come to him if she had any trouble with school. Yan Guiqiu could only nod with a dry laugh, thinking the old man’s obsession with education was truly immense.

When Jiang Xuehe led Yan Guiqiu out, she whispered an explanation once they were alone. “Grandpa has been sponsoring impoverished students for over thirty years. It’s private; he’s never publicized it.”

She meant his words were sincere, not just an excuse to brush Yan Guiqiu off. Yan Guiqiu could sense his sincerity as well, but it was so different from the image she had built in her head that she couldn’t quite process it.

But looking at it from the old man’s perspective… Yan Guiqiu would rather give up an inheritance that many fought over just to keep studying. That level of passion for education was practically divine.

“I think he really likes you. It’s rare to see him so enthusiastic when meeting someone for the first time,” Jiang Xuehe said. She glanced at the red envelope in Yan Guiqiu’s hand and gestured. “Open it and see.”

“Hmm?” Yan Guiqiu casually opened the seal, guessing, “It’s probably just a single—”

Giving a red envelope for a first meeting was a custom. Both families had plenty of money, so deciding how much to give was a dilemma. Even a thick stack of cash might be less than a month’s allowance for these young ladies. Petty people might feel slighted if they received a small amount. It was better to give less as a symbolic gesture. If the feelings were real, they weren’t here for a few dollars from an elder.

But as Yan Guiqiu opened the envelope and touched its contents, she froze.

“What is it?” Jiang Xuehe asked, knowing from Yan Guiqiu’s expression that it certainly wasn’t a bank note of the highest denomination.

“…” Yan Guiqiu silently pulled out the contents and showed Jiang Xuehe. “It looks like a check.”

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