After leaving the milk tea shop, Wang Haoran was heading back to school when a car from the bureau stopped nearby. A spirited and charming woman stepped out—it was Ling Duanya.

“I didn’t expect to see you here. I was just looking for you,” Ling Duanya said with a smile to Wang Haoran.

“What do you need me for? I haven’t done anything wrong,” Wang Haoran teased.

“You made a report call earlier, didn’t you? Thanks to your call, we successfully captured a large group of criminals.” Ling Duanya took out a small bundle wrapped in yellow paper from the car. “This is the reward for your report, a total of fifty thousand. It’s rightfully yours.”

“There’s even a reward?” Wang Haoran accepted it gladly.

“We’re also planning to collaborate with the TV station for an interview to set a public example. Would you like to appear on camera?”

“I’d rather not. I don’t want to be famous,” Wang Haoran shook his head.

“If you don’t want to, I won’t force you.”

Wang Haoran remembered something, “How’s your leg?”

Ling Duanya’s long legs caught his attention as he recalled giving her some medicine earlier.

“After using your medicine, it feels much better. I really need to thank you. When we’re both free, I’ll treat you to a meal!” Ling Duanya said, patting Wang Haoran’s shoulder.

“Alright, I’ll wait for your treat.”

“I have things to do, so I’ll be off now.” Ling Duanya laughed, got back into the car, and left hurriedly.

Shortly after, Tang Bingyun appeared, crossing the street with her graceful figure.

“Aunt Tang, what brings you here?” Wang Haoran asked, feigning innocence.

“I was just wandering around since I had nothing to do at noon. I happened to see you, so I came over to say hello,” Tang Bingyun said calmly.

In truth, she hadn’t planned to meet him but noticed two beautiful women chatting and laughing with him. This mischievous boy was always surrounded by so many beauties. If she didn’t make an appearance, he might just forget about her. Hence, she approached.

“The other day, I woke up in bed feeling dizzy and uncomfortable. Why was that?” Wang Haoran asked indirectly.

Tang Bingyun’s eyes flickered with a hint of panic but she quickly masked it.

“You got drunk on just a little red wine. I couldn’t let you sleep at the dining table, could I? So, I moved you to a room on the second floor. It was exhausting; my waist almost broke,” Tang Bingyun said, mixing truth with falsehood.

She assumed Wang Haoran wouldn’t catch the hidden meaning.

“So that’s what happened.”

Wang Haoran feigned understanding then asked another question, “Why was the bedsheet missing?”

“You got drunk and soiled the bedsheet, so I threw it away,” Tang Bingyun explained.

Wang Haoran nodded, signaling he understood and had no further questions. He had mostly pieced it together. He wasn’t truly drunk, so he couldn’t have vomited. Her story about the bedsheet seemed partially true.

…

Night.

In good spirits, Su Lang returned to his apartment. It was dark and empty—Yang Jingwan’s family hadn’t returned yet. Unhurried, Su Lang lounged on the sofa watching TV, waiting for their arrival.

Ma Hongsheng had awakened, albeit recovering in the hospital. Su Lang had gained connections through him, securing the project. He planned to surprise Yang Jingwan’s family upon their return.

…

“See, Jingwan, I was right. I said you should go, and now the project issues are resolved without compromise,” Li Manli said with joy.

“I’m surprised too. I expected him to make unreasonable demands,” Yang Jingwan said, relieved.

“In my opinion, that Young Master Wang isn’t a typical playboy. He genuinely likes you, which explains his politeness. This is a good opportunity. You should seize it—marrying into a wealthy family would be wonderful, and your parents could live comfortably,” Li Manli fantasized.

“Mom, stop the nonsense. At best, I’d have a second marriage. How could someone like me marry into a wealthy family?” Yang Jingwan said, feeling frustrated.

“Even if it’s a second marriage, you and Su Lang only have a nominal relationship. Why can’t you marry into a wealthy family?” Li Manli was an idealist.

Conversely, Yang Jingwan was pragmatic. Wealthy family marriages revolved around social status. Her mother’s dreams seemed impossible. Besides, though she found Wang Haoran handsome, she had no romantic feelings for him.

“Today is a great day. Why argue? Let’s add some dishes and celebrate,” Yang Tai suggested, easing the tension.

As they spoke, the family reached the apartment.

“I’ve sorted out the project issues,” Su Lang announced casually, awaiting their shocked surprise.

“Still here? Look at the time. Why haven’t you cooked yet? Add more dishes,” Li Manli’s smile vanished as she reprimanded Su Lang.

“Doing nothing all day and refusing to cook? Do you want to stay here?” Yang Tai joined in.

“I’ve not been idle. I saw Ma Hongsheng and resolved the project issues,” Su Lang insisted.

“I doubt you’d survive without boasting,” Li Manli mocked.

“I’m not boasting. If you doubt me, I can prove it with a call,” Su Lang said, pulling out a modest phone.

“Keep pretending!” Li Manli said disdainfully.

“Start cooking. You aren’t needed for the project. I’ve secured it myself, and we could earn at least ten million,” Yang Tai claimed.

“Dad, how did you manage such a project?” Su Lang inquired, curious.

“Are you belittling me? Why can’t I secure a major project?”

Not wanting to admit Yang Jingwan sought help from a wealthy young man, Yang Tai claimed credit himself. Yet, Su Lang’s skeptical gaze irked him, leaving him feeling slighted.