The Ex-Wife-to-Be Is Acting Weird After Losing Her Memory - Chapter 40

Chapter 40: Symphonic Poem Three

In her thirty-plus years as a daughter-in-law in the Zhen family, Wen Meixian had never felt the triumphant exhilaration she felt today.

She hailed from the Wen family, but her father was a notorious playboy who constantly had women around and accumulated many romantic debts. Wen Meixian was the third daughter, and long past her father’s period of novelty. Coupled with her average intelligence and lack of favor, she had to compete with a large group of siblings for paternal affection, scrambling for every necessity. It was a very difficult upbringing.

After marrying Zhen Xingye, she expected to live the easy life of a wealthy madam. Unexpectedly, the Zhen family did not follow the tradition of the eldest son inheriting the business; Elder Mr. Zhen’s life’s work was all passed to his younger son, Zhen Zhengye. She never became a wealthy madam, and instead spent decades living under someone else’s thumb.

Her husband was disappointing and lacked ambition, but at least her son was capable. Although he wasn’t favored by the Elder as much as Zhen Zhen, he had connected with a fine young lady from a good family. Thinking of this, Wen Meixian’s steps lightened, and she almost started humming a tune.

“Wipe the floor a few more times. It looks so dirty and undignified,” she frowned, pointing and criticizing the maidservants. “Quickly change the flowers on the entryway table too. They’re wilted and not festive at all.”

She was bustling around, while Zhen Xingye on the sofa was perfectly content with his leisure. His wife had been keeping an eye on him since morning, afraid he would go out to play cards, so he was bored watching TV, occasionally loosening the tie knot that was itching his chin.

“Didn’t they say they wouldn’t arrive until the evening?” He watched his wife pacing and finally spoke. “It’s still several hours away. You’re making me dizzy with all this turning.”

Wen Meixian glared at her husband irritably: “If I relied on you, I’d have died of anger already. This is the first time A-Ming is bringing Miss Qiao home. What if we don’t prepare well and slight her?”

Zhen Xingye was rather dismissive of his wife’s words: “Isn’t she just a nouveau riche who got rich quick through financial speculation? Does she deserve all this caution? My son is more than enough for her. You need to show some class. In terms of status, our Zhen family is no less than the Qiao family.”

“You still think of it as the Zhen family, but it’s not your Zhen Xingye’s family.” Wen Meixian coldly jabbed her husband. “Don’t blame me for being a wet blanket, but when the Elder passes away, and she truly inherits the family business, we’ll all have to pack up and leave. We might as well help our son now while he’s striving.”

Although the Qiao family was an upstart in Haishi’s upper class, they made money incredibly fast through finance. The Qiao family’s “Wealth Treasure” advertisements were practically everywhere, indicating how much money was flowing continuously into their hands. While Miss Qiao was a daughter, her full-brother, Qiao Tianyou, was the one in power.

If Zhen Ming could marry Miss Qiao, Qiao Tianyou would surely show some loyalty to his brother-in-law, right? With the Qiao family’s strong cash flow as a guarantee, maybe those old-fashioned members of the board would change their minds and help Zhen Ming compete for that position?

Wen Meixian was lost in delightful thought when she suddenly noticed someone walking in the entryway. After clearly seeing who it was, her carefully drawn eyebrows immediately furrowed. She then greeted her: “Xiao Zhen, why are you here today?”

“Aunt,” Zhen Zhen greeted her politely, then turned her gaze to Zhen Xingye on the sofa. “Uncle.”

Zhen Xingye had little to say to his niece, only responding casually before immersing himself in the television again. Wen Meixian, however, collected herself and stepped forward: “You didn’t call ahead to say you were coming. The kitchen is steaming Huadiao crab tonight. That dish can’t be kept, and the quantity was precisely calculated. Look what a mess this has made.”

Her words were extremely stingy, causing even the nearby maidservants to silently think that no wonder the Elder didn’t care for the eldest madam’s character—she was far too petty. Huadiao crab wasn’t some rare delicacy; how could Zhen Zhen not get a share if she wanted one? Wen Meixian was clearly looking for an excuse to drive her away.

Seeing Zhen Zhen not reply, Wen Meixian’s eyes darted around, then she smiled falsely to make amends: “It’s my oversight, Aunt’s. At worst, I’ll give up my portion later. We certainly can’t shortchange our Miss.”

Zhen Zhen was unbothered by her aunt’s sweet-on-the-outside, bitter-on-the-inside treatment. Looking at Wen Meixian’s hypocritical smile, she said: “Thank you, Aunt, but there’s no need. I came today because I have something to discuss.”

“Nothing is that urgent,” seeing her niece’s serious face, a sense of unease inexplicably rose in Wen Meixian’s heart. She anxiously interrupted her, “You don’t know, do you? Today is a big day for your brother. He’s bringing his girlfriend home later. Can’t you see if…”

Her tone was expectant, hoping her niece would be sensible and quickly leave so as not to spoil the atmosphere.

Unfortunately, Zhen Zhen did not comply, but continued unhurriedly: “Am I the Third Miss of the Qiao family? I came specifically for this matter. Brother Ming has a collaboration with this Third Miss’s brother. Do Uncle and Aunt know about this? I want you both to persuade Brother Ming; this business venture is too risky…”

She concisely relayed the information she knew to her uncle and aunt. However, to her disappointment, after she finished speaking, the two acted as if they hadn’t heard anything, showing no reaction.

“Xiao Zhen, is there some misunderstanding here?” After a moment of silence, Wen Meixian spoke first. “A-Ming is an adult. I think he has a sense of what he can and cannot do. Although I don’t understand things like listings and reverse mergers, the Qiao family is such a big company. They wouldn’t deceive him…”

Ultimately, she was completely distrustful of her niece’s words, believing Zhen Zhen was using this as an excuse. Seeing her cousin establish ties with the influential Qiao family, she thought Zhen Zhen was rushing over to pour cold water on their plans.

Thinking of this, the aunt’s expression grew colder: “No matter what, A-Ming is your brother. You grew up together. He hasn’t competed with you for a single benefit. Now that he’s finally found a capable partner, instead of being happy for him, you’re saying such discouraging things. Aunt is a bit disappointed in you.”

Zhen Zhen offered no comment.

“I have no other intentions; I just wanted to remind Uncle and Aunt,” she said in a calm tone. “Business isn’t that simple. Seeking shortcuts will ultimately lead to huge losses. I hope the two of you can help persuade Brother Ming to proceed cautiously. If he remains insistent on not stopping, I really cannot handle this alone, and I’m afraid I’ll have to let Grandpa decide.”

Hearing this, even Zhen Xingye on the sofa couldn’t sit still and immediately blurted out: “How could you do that?”

If Zhen Zhen ignored their pleas and brought this matter to the Elder, wouldn’t that directly cut off Zhen Ming’s source of wealth? The couple exchanged looks, both seeing a trace of nervousness in the other’s eyes.

“Zhen Zhen, let’s talk about this nicely.” The aunt softened her tone, stepping forward and pulling Zhen Zhen’s sleeve. “The matter hasn’t been clarified yet, and bringing it up to the Elder will only harm the family harmony, right? Your brother is thirty years old and is finally bringing someone home. Just for my sake, can you please wait until after we’ve entertained the guest?”

Wen Meixian thought she understood Zhen Zhen. She knew that like the Elder, she strongly disapproved of opportunistic behavior. Therefore, she had to rely on her status as the aunt, first coaxing Zhen Zhen not to make a scene, and then figure out a solution after Zhen Ming returned.

As for the risks Zhen Zhen mentioned, she considered them alarmist. The Qiao family’s business was raking in money. Why would Qiao Tianyou hurt his own sister’s fiancé?

Zhen Zhen sighed silently. Facing her elders, she couldn’t press the issue further. She could only say, “We can hold off on this matter for tonight, but you really must persuade Brother Ming to proceed with caution.”

Wen Meixian breathed a sigh of relief, repeatedly assuring her: “Don’t worry, once this is over, I’ll have Zhen Ming explain everything clearly to you.”

She wanted to give a few more assurances, but the doorbell rang at the entrance. Hearing the sound, Wen Meixian’s eyes lit up: “They’re here!”

The large living room instantly became lively.

Zhen Ming, smartly dressed in a suit, walked in smiling. Beside him was a petite woman with exquisite, doll-like curly hair, her neck and wrists sparkling with dazzling jewelry that almost blinded people.

In the midst of the luxurious glow of the jewels, even her otherwise unremarkable face seemed somewhat radiant.

Qiao Bao’er looked at the people in the living room, her gaze lingering on Zhen Zhen’s face with a look of surprise: “I didn’t expect to see CEO Xiao Zhen here.”

“She heard you were coming. She’s always been close with her cousin and came specifically to see you,” Wen Meixian quickly interjected. “Let’s not stand around here. To the dining room, to the dining room!”

Her enthusiasm for Qiao Bao’er was practically overflowing. She personally ushered her into the dining room, seated her at the best spot, and said warmly: “A-Ming told me you like crab. I had Hairy Crabs delivered early this morning. They are perfect to eat right now.”

Servants filed in with trays, quickly filling the table with dishes. Zhen Zhen lifted the lid of the soup bowl in front of her, took a look, and calmly replaced the lid.

She had disliked the smell of mushrooms since childhood. Her “good memory” aunt had clearly forgotten again. The red date, mushroom, and pork patty soup in front of her was clearly visible, with a pungent fungal aroma filling the air.

Considering she was an impromptu visitor today, and the aunt was busy fussing over her “future daughter-in-law,” it was normal for her to forget to instruct the kitchen. However, sitting amidst the cheerful, familial laughter, Zhen Zhen felt a rare moment of distraction.

After dinner, she excused herself to get some fresh air and left the room, sensibly choosing not to participate further in the family’s cozy time.

The air in the courtyard was cool. Zhen Zhen took a few deep breaths, feeling her chest fill with cold air. She walked along the stone steps toward the flower garden, leaving the commotion behind.

In truth, it had been a long time since she had recalled her childhood.

She was too young then, and many things were hazy and unclear. She only knew that her grandfather had brought her back to the main house. Because he was often busy with work, Zhen Zhen spent most of her time with her cousin and this aunt.

Zhen Zhen had no clear way to accurately judge what kind of person her aunt was. She was extremely patient and gentle with her cousin, tirelessly cleaning up his messes, scolding him while simultaneously smiling and shaking her head.

However, when dealing with little Zhen Zhen, that gentleness turned anxious. Even though Zhen Zhen was very careful not to cause her any trouble, the aunt was often frowning, and her movements were rough when buttoning her clothes.

“Poor little thing. If it weren’t for this child, her parents wouldn’t have died so early.” She remembered her aunt often chatting with relatives in the living room, repeatedly discussing her parents’ passing between spittle, then sighing and patting her head as if offering a final judgment.

These words weighed heavily on Zhen Zhen, making her vaguely feel that perhaps she was an unwelcome presence.

Her parents had died in an accident on the road because they were bringing her back to the main house for her birthday.

Her aunt would always intentionally or unintentionally emphasize this point, sighing wistfully and saying “pity.”

During those years at the main house, Zhen Zhen gradually grew accustomed to responding silently to the scrutinizing looks of relatives around her and learned to use books to pass the excessively long hours. Over time, even she herself began to feel that she should not be happy.

No one should remember whether she liked mushrooms or not. No one should care if she felt lonely. No one should offer blessings on her birthday. And no one should feel that someone like her was worthy of love.

Because her existence had taken her parents’ lives.

Although her grandfather never blamed her, he not only fully entrusted the trust funds of Zhen Zhengye and his wife to his granddaughter but also intentionally groomed her for succession. Yet, Zhen Zhen knew that the Elder still struggled to come to terms with her parents’ deaths.

Every first and fifteenth day of the lunar month, the Elder, who never believed in deities, would personally go up the mountain to recite scriptures and meditate with the master, only returning late at night.

The silence was like light, and her heart was full of loneliness.

She suddenly felt tired and didn’t want to walk back into the brightly lit manor tonight. Instead, she urgently wanted to return to a place that felt safer and quieter.

After greeting the security guard at the gate, Zhen Zhen didn’t return to the main house, directly instructing the driver to take her down the mountain.

She had arrived in the early evening, and now the sky was dark like twilight. A few scattered stars dotted the sky, making her feel even more solitary.

After turning onto the highway toward the city, the driver habitually asked: “Shall I take you straight home?”

The word “home” roused Zhen Zhen’s consciousness. She curled her lips, and softly said: “Mhm, let’s go home.”

Anywhere was fine. She just wanted to find a quiet place now, so her loneliness wouldn’t be so apparent.

Compared to the bustling old manor, the high-rise apartment at Jiangwan No. 1, although empty, surprisingly gave Zhen Zhen a sense of peace.

She didn’t turn on the lights. Following the faint moonlight from outside the window, she walked into the living room. She paused, then took a bottle of wine from the cabinet.

Xiao Chen had brought this a few days ago, intending for her and Lu Jiayin to drink it at home. Since Lu Jiayin couldn’t make it back, she would just drink it herself.

An inexpressible emotion was churning in her chest, surging with every breath, long and distinct.

“Pop,” the cork was pulled. The burgundy wine slid into the crystal glass, releasing a heady aroma.

Zhen Zhen rarely drank and had little experience with being drunk. But tonight, she felt as if she were acting without thought, mechanically pouring the cold liquid down her throat, glass after glass.

The cool yet somewhat burning sensation slid down her throat, slowly warming her limbs and body.

Her eyes gradually grew unfocused. The scattered lights outside the floor-to-ceiling windows coalesced into bright clusters—the myriad lights of the city kneeling at her feet, each one representing someone else’s home.

The crystal glass clinked softly and tumbled toward the carpet. Zhen Zhen tried to reach out and catch it, but her consciousness, blurred by the alcohol, seemed completely unable to react. She could only watch helplessly as the wine spilled out.

The red wine, the white long-pile carpet. The spreading scent of alcohol permeated the air, making her mind fuzzy.

She fumbled for a few tissues, attempting to wipe up the wine stain, but after several attempts, it only made the mess worse.

This is Lu Jiayin’s favorite carpet. This thought popped into her mind. Zhen Zhen leaned against the window, laughing naughtily: “She’s not here anyway!”

Who told her not to be here? The reason for causing trouble suddenly felt completely justified.

So, when Lu Jiayin opened the door and walked in, this was the first scene that met her eyes.

She almost thought she was hallucinating. She blinked, then suddenly cried “Ay!” and lunged forward to grab the wine bottle from Zhen Zhen’s hand.

“What happened to you? Why are you drinking like this? Did you do this? My wool carpet!”

Lu Jiayin had driven back overnight, expecting to give Zhen Zhen a surprise, but instead got a shock. The dizzy, drunken person in front of her looked at her, her expression sluggish, clearly not having processed the situation yet.

She looked at the wine bottle in her hand. There was only a shallow layer left at the bottom. Except for the bit the carpet had “drunk,” most of the wine had been consumed by the person here.

She temporarily put the bottle back on the table and reached out to pull Zhen Zhen: “Don’t sit by the window. I’ll help you back to the room first.”

Zhen Zhen looked up at her, her eyes watery and unfocused. She frowned, seeing Lu Jiayin’s hand gripping her wrist, and impatiently shook it off.

Her cheeks were flushed crimson, and she slurred: “You wrinkled my clothes…”

In just a few days, she had to reason with a drunk person repeatedly. Lu Jiayin was both annoyed and amused: “What? You’re going to throw a tantrum because I wrinkled your clothes?”

Zhen Zhen “humphed” once: “I am angry.”

Drunk, she looked like a child, her puffy cheeks stained red, and her long eyelashes cast down over her eyes in distress, completely unlike her usual rigorous and elegant demeanor. Lu Jiayin squatted beside her, reached out to poke the soft cheek, and laughed: “I’m your wife, yet you’re angry at me.”

Hearing this, Zhen Zhen’s watery gaze instantly froze, but she immediately shook her head fiercely, resisting Lu Jiayin’s touch with greater force, turning her head away.

In her wobbly struggle, Lu Jiayin saw Zhen Zhen’s shoulders tremble slightly. Her usually clear voice carried a soft, tearful quality as she firmly and clearly accused: “My wife? She was having a ‘lesbian tryst’ with another woman on the street and has already forgotten about me!”

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