The Subtle Seduction of My Ex-Girlfriend’s Aunt - Chapter 42

Chapter 42: You’re Really Not Considering Changing the Engagement Partner…

By some inexplicable twist of fate.

That night, Tang Ran didn’t go home to accompany Tang Wanru; she went to Shengming Mansion instead. After washing up, she sat in the living room with her documents. Every few moments, her eyes would inadvertently drift toward the balcony.

When the digital clock on her phone jumped to 21:15, a faint layer of light and shadow appeared on the balcony floor. Someone was back next door.

Tang Ran’s gaze fell naturally on her phone. One minute, two minutes, three minutes.

21:45.

No messages.

Tang Ran snapped the folders shut with a bang and strode into the bedroom. She tossed her phone aside, threw herself onto the bed, and buried her face in the pillow. The night sky was as black as ink, without a single spark of starlight.

Ding!

The notification for a new message sounded. The corners of Tang Ran’s pressed lips curled up involuntarily as she quickly grabbed the phone and unlocked it.

Jiangcheng News: The flood season is approaching; Jiangcheng City has fully initiated…

The screen lit up for only a second before she clicked it off. A muffled roll of thunder boomed, and raindrops began to patter down, continuing until the middle of the night.

The next day after arriving at work, Tang Ran called Xia Mo. They arranged to meet in the afternoon at Wanyuan. When Tang Ran arrived, Xia Mo’s assistant was already waiting in the first-floor lobby.

“You’re here?” Seeing the assistant lead Tang Ran in, Xia Mo tidied the documents in her hand and stood up with a smile. “What would you like to drink? Tea or coffee?”

“Warm water is fine.” Tang Ran was sensitive to caffeine; a cup of coffee in the afternoon would keep her wide awake until the small hours of the morning.

Once the assistant served the water and left, only Tang Ran and Xia Mo remained. Tang Ran felt a slight sense of unease.

“I heard from Xin’er that you’re going to Turtle Island in a few days?”

“Yes, this weekend.”

“Xin’er’s preparations are reaching mountain-like proportions…” Since Xia Xin’er posted her new vacation gadgets in the group chat every day, Tang Ran wasn’t surprised.

After a few moments of small talk, Xia Mo naturally steered the conversation toward the Tang Group’s loan. Things turned out exactly as Tang Ran had suspected: it wasn’t just this installment; the subsequent loan phases were also highly likely to be delayed. Just like in her previous life, the final installment would likely be rejected outright.

The suspicion was confirmed, and the last shred of hope in Tang Ran’s heart finally died. The Tang Group needed a massive influx of capital—a constant “blood transfusion”—otherwise, the capital chain would snap, leading to the same tragic end.

Seeing her face change, Xia Mo softened her tone. “Don’t worry too much. As long as the Tang Group’s operations are healthy, this isn’t an insurmountable problem.” She took a stack of files from her desk and placed them before Tang Ran. “Wanyuan offers bridge-funding services. If Tang Group needs it, you could consider it.”

Xia Mo explained several methods of bridge-funding before suggesting the one most suitable for the company. Her warm smile reached her eyes. “On a personal note, for the ‘Sister Ran’ that Xin’er always talks about, I can offer the best interest rate discount.”

She didn’t mention her own relationship with Tang Ran, but rather framed it as a favor for Xia Xin’er. Xia Mo’s thoughtfulness was comforting. Honestly, Tang Ran was tempted by the plan. However, the favor Xia Mo was offering far exceeded standard corporate business. Tang Ran couldn’t accept it with a clear conscience—especially knowing Xia Mo had feelings for her.

Favors are easy to borrow but hard to repay.

Toward evening, Jiangcheng saw another rain shower. After the rain, the sunset clouds were vibrant and colorful.

On the top floor of the Song Group headquarters, the sunset glow spilled through the floor-to-ceiling windows into the office. Slender fingers scrolled slowly on a mouse, the computer screen reflecting rows of numbers on a pair of glasses.

A new message popped up on the phone.

Surname Mu, Not Murong: [Image].

After a brief glance, the gaze returned to the computer screen: the Tang Group’s financial reports from the past three years. Lin Jixin had had the finance department send the relevant data and reports to Song Zhixu on Monday morning. Since the loan would come from the Song Group’s public accounts, proper procedures had to be followed. Reviewing the reports was necessary to assess the Tang Group’s repayment ability.

The phone lit up again.

Surname Mu, Not Murong: Don’t regret not looking.

The scrolling motion paused. Song Zhixu picked up the phone and clicked the chat. Murong Yi had sent a screenshot of a chat with someone labeled “Old Xia.”

16:32: Old Xia, want a drink after work?

“I have plans.”

“With who? It couldn’t be Tang Ran, could it?”

[(Smile emoji)]

After staring at the final smile emoji for two seconds, Song Zhixu put the phone down. Her pale fingers gripped the silver metal frames of her glasses, removing them gently. She pressed her thumb and forefinger against the bridge of her nose, rubbing the ache away.

During lunch at the equestrian club the other day, Murong Yi had teased Xia Mo and wheedled out her intention to provide a loan to the Tang Group. Song Zhixu lowered her eyes, the silver light from the screen casting a faint shadow over her curled lashes, adding a touch of darkness to her usually gentle gaze.

Turtle Island Resort was a key investment project for Song Group Real Estate over the last two years. Located a hundred kilometers from Jiangcheng at a river estuary, the island featured the only coastal hot springs in the country and natural golden beaches. From a distance, the island was shaped like a giant sea turtle.

Song Wuqi, hoping to transfer to the real estate branch, had begged Old Master Song to let her participate in the resort’s opening ceremony. Besides inviting friends for a trip, she was responsible for pre-opening inspections to ensure smooth operations.

The invitation had been sent to the group chat half a month ago. These gatherings were essentially networking events; except for two people abroad, almost everyone showed up. With their partners, there were about twenty people.

Song Wuqi had arrived two days early for work. Tang Ran arrived in Miao Tiantian’s car. By the time they arrived, the parking lot was filled with colorful sports cars. A sightseeing shuttle was waiting to take guests to the hotel.

Knowing Tang Ran had arrived, Song Wuqi personally went to the parking lot to greet her, drawing teases from the crowd. From inside the car, Miao Tiantian saw her approaching and rolled her eyes.

“A Chihuahua in a suit—still looks like a dog!”

On the way there, Tang Ran had told her about Song Wuqi’s manipulations to move the engagement forward. Miao Tiantian was even more disgusted now. Tang Ran patted her arm, signaling her to keep it down, as it wasn’t yet time for a confrontation.

Miao Tiantian deliberately parked in a corner. “Why don’t you just dump all her dirty laundry in front of Old Master Song?” She was impatient and didn’t understand how Tang Ran could hold it in for so long.

“It’s not time yet.”

“Are you worried about the loan?” Miao Tiantian turned her head while reversing. “Didn’t Song Zhixu say that even if you don’t get engaged, it won’t affect the cooperation?”

News of the tightening loans had spread, and many companies were looking for connections. When Miao Tiantian heard, she had called Tang Ran immediately to offer help. Since the Miao family was currently led by Miao Tiantian’s uncle, Tang Ran didn’t want to trouble her or make her worry, so she had relayed Song Zhixu’s words—skipping the gossip-worthy details, of course.

“That’s not the only reason,” Tang Ran nodded. The logic was sound, but who could guarantee Song Zhixu would keep her word? Besides, the matter of Song Wuqi’s affair couldn’t be exposed by her, nor could it only be brought to the Old Master.

Miao Tiantian hit the parking button, glanced at the approaching Song Wuqi, and said with a mischievous grin, “If you’re that worried, I have an idea.”

Tang Ran guessed what she was going to say and felt inexplicably guilty. She looked at her with feigned calm. “Save your wild imagination.”

Miao Tiantian grabbed her. “You’re really not considering changing the engagement partner to Song Zhixu?”

Tang Ran brushed her hand away. Miao Tiantian truly was her best friend; she could strike right at her heart with a single sentence. During this time, Tang Ran frequently thought of Song Zhixu’s gentle gaze. Sometimes she even thought it would be quite good if she could actually change the partner to Song Zhixu. It was the most efficient, least “debt-inducing” solution.

However, with the lessons from her previous life, Tang Ran didn’t dare trust an alliance-marriage easily. But she had to admit that in terms of mutual interest, marriage was a stronger bond than any other.

Seeing her hesitation, Miao Tiantian winked. “If you become the CEO’s wife and whisper in her ear every night, do you really think Song Zhixu would go back on her word?”

It sounded like a joke, but Miao Tiantian had thought about it seriously. The loan the Tang Group needed was too large; few people they knew could produce that amount. Other than the Song family, she couldn’t think of anyone willing to do it. And for Song Zhixu to be so willing to help Tang Ran, there had to be something more than just business.

“I specifically asked around for you. Big Boss Song’s private life is incredibly clean. Many people have tried to get close to her over the years, and none succeeded. Not just the gold diggers—I heard the daughter of the Chen family in Beijing, the granddaughter of that person…” Miao Tiantian pointed upward, and Tang Ran understood. “Last year at the West Sea in Beijing, there was a drone show with over a thousand drones for her birthday. Tsk, tsk, it was spectacular.”

Miao Tiantian was well-informed; her news was usually 90% accurate. Tang Ran felt a tightness in her chest. Her best friend knew her best, and the truth stung the most. Song Zhixu was the most suitable choice for the current situation, but for a marriage partner, Song Zhixu clearly had “better” options. Even if Song Zhixu did feel something for her, so what? With the help of the Chen family in Beijing, the Song family could become the richest in China. Choosing Tang Ran meant taking on billions in debt. Plus, given Song Zhixu’s relationship with Song Wuqi, why would she ever choose her?

Seeing Tang Ran’s face fall, Miao Tiantian realized she had misspoken. “Wait, no, sister, I didn’t tell you this to discourage you!” Her intent was to push Tang Ran to act quickly. “You have the ‘neighbor’ advantage and such a perfect opportunity. I believe in you. With your looks, you’re basically Nüwa’s masterpiece. I have high hopes for you!” Miao Tiantian scanned Tang Ran’s figure and held up two fingers. “You can handle her easily!”

Tang Ran patted her hand away and sighed. “Tiantian, it’s a pity you aren’t in sales.” In just two minutes, Tang Ran hadn’t been able to get a word in; she had been completely swept along by Miao Tiantian’s narrative. It was as if she were already prepared to strike!

“I’m being serious!” Seeing Song Wuqi approach the passenger door, Miao Tiantian lowered her voice. “Think about it properly.” With that, she donned her sunglasses, pulled the door open, and stepped out.

Song Wuqi greeted her with a smile. Miao Tiantian gave a lukewarm hum in response. Song Wuqi didn’t mind; she knew Miao Tiantian didn’t like her, and the feeling was mutual. She figured once she and Tang Ran were engaged, she would slowly distance Tang Ran from Miao Tiantian.

Song Wuqi turned to Tang Ran with a smile. “I should have gone back to pick you up, but something came up.”

“It’s fine, I know you’re busy with work.” Tang Ran smiled, emphasizing the word “work.” Song Wuqi had gone to the real estate branch but hadn’t forgotten to bring her “assistant” Ye Xiaoyu. She had been busy these past two days—busy fooling around with Ye Xiaoyu under the guise of work.

A flash of guilt crossed Song Wuqi’s face, but she masked it quickly. If Tang Ran knew anything, she would surely argue. This comment sounded more like a pampered complaint. “It’s my fault. The work is mostly done; I’ll definitely spend the next few days with you.” She reached for Tang Ran’s hand.

Behind her, Miao Tiantian made a gagging motion.

Tang Ran fanned herself, handed her suitcase to Song Wuqi, and complained, “I didn’t expect Turtle Island to be this hot.” Under the summer sun, staying out too long made one feel like a meat skewer.

“It’s a bit hot today, but they predict rain this evening. Tomorrow and the day after will be comfortable,” Song Wuqi took the bag with a doting smile. “The water park will be cooler; everyone is over there.”

Miao Tiantian took Tang Ran’s arm and secretly gave her a thumbs-up. Tang Ran glanced at her, reminding her that the shuttle driver was right there.

After a ten-minute shuttle ride, they reached the central resort area. “Sister Ran, over here!” As soon as Tang Ran entered the lobby, Xia Xin’er waved at her. After chatting with her and the others, it was nearly noon. The deputy manager of the park arranged for the group to eat at the second-floor restaurant.

The transparent sightseeing elevator offered a 360-degree view. As the elevator rose, Tang Ran saw a familiar figure entering the lobby.

It was Song Zhixu.

Walking beside her was another woman. From a distance, she couldn’t see the face clearly, but her posture and bearing were extraordinary.

“Sister Ran, what are you looking at?” When the elevator reached the second floor, Xia Xin’er pulled her.

Hearing this, Miao Tiantian instinctively turned toward the entrance.

“Nothing.” Tang Ran grabbed her and walked out.

Miao Tiantian narrowed her eyes and whispered mischievously, “Sister, something’s not right with you~”

Tang Ran pretended not to hear and walked alongside Xia Xin’er. Miao Tiantian looked back but didn’t see Song Zhixu. Instead, she saw another person entering. She scrambled back a few steps, clutching her chest. “Holy crap, what is she doing here?”

Tang Ran was startled. “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing.” Miao Tiantian grabbed her arm and hurried toward the restaurant.

Tang Ran mimicked her tone. “Sister, something’s not right with you~”

Xia Xin’er joined in. “Sister Ran, Sister Miao, something’s not right with both of you~”

Miao Tiantian let go of Tang Ran and slung an arm around Xia Xin’er’s shoulder. They weren’t very close, and the sudden gesture surprised her. Miao Tiantian narrowed her eyes “threateningly.” “Heh, do you know what happens to people who leak secrets?”

Realizing she was joking, Xia Xin’er relaxed. She blinked her large eyes and shook her head. Miao Tiantian made an exaggerated throat-slitting gesture. “Understand?”

Xia Xin’er nodded repeatedly. “Good girl~” Miao Tiantian patted her shoulder.

Tang Ran had to admire how Miao Tiantian could bridge the gap with someone in just two sentences. If she lived in primitive times, she’d probably be a cult leader.

The second-floor restaurant was buffet-style. Xia Xin’er ditched Lu Shuyang to sit with Tang Ran and Miao Tiantian. In the past, she always made Lu Shuyang ditch his friends for her, but now she had her own friends.

During the meal, Tang Ran’s eyes occasionally drifted toward the restaurant entrance, but no one other than their group arrived. After eating, those who wanted to play in the water went to the park, while others headed to the fifth-floor lounge.

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