The Marriage Harbor CH11
Chapter 11: WeChat Moments
August 20th was Jiang Shaoyu’s birthday, as well as his engagement banquet to the daughter of the Fuheng Group.
Fuheng Group operated the largest e-commerce platform in the country, with a market capitalization ranking in the top ten domestically. This alliance was clearly Jiang Shaoyu’s attempt to counterbalance Jiang Bin’s influence. The Jiang family had invited the elite of Shanghai, including several multinational tycoons. Jiang Bin herself had received a personal invitation from her brother.
"Binbin, you haven't made a formal visit home since you married Tang Zhisong. You must show up this time."
Jiang Bin agreed. After checking Tang Zhisong’s schedule and confirming he would be in Shanghai on the 20th, she sent him a message.
[It's my brother's birthday banquet on the 20th. Are you free to attend?]
Since Tang Zhisong’s return from the United States, their only contact had been sharing their respective itineraries. He stared at Jiang Bin’s profile picture for a long while before replying with a simple: [Okay.]
Jiang Bin followed up with the time and location: [6:30 PM on the 20th, Sangjiang Club.]
Since every influential figure in Shanghai would be present, it wouldn't be appropriate for her and Tang Zhisong to appear separately.
[My office is near your residence. Should I pick you up on the way?]
She had learned from Madam Tang that Tang Zhisong’s apartment was at Emerald Heights, just west of the Jiang Group headquarters and just a few minutes' walk away.
Tang Zhisong stared at his phone, calculating the timing. He would be at the office by then, but she would likely return home early to prepare. His office was actually closer to her apartment than her own workplace.
By asking that, she wasn't really offering him a ride, she was telling him to pick her up.
[6:00 PM. I’ll pick you up.]
* * *
On the evening of the 20th, Jiang Bin returned to Zhouyue International half an hour early. Li Yang helped her into her gown, but she hadn't started her makeup when Tang Zhisong called.
"I’m downstairs."
With only thirty minutes until the banquet, there was no time to finish her makeup before leaving. Jiang Bin had no choice but to bring her vanity case downstairs.
The Cullinan was parked in its usual spot. The concierge opened the door for her, revealing Tang Zhisong inside. He wore a crisp white shirt and black trousers, topped with a bow tie, a formal ensemble. Even a standard-cut suit couldn't hide his noble, commanding presence.
This was their first meeting since their dinner, and their eyes met briefly. Tang Zhisong’s gaze drifted to Jiang Bin’s dress.
It was a champagne-pink floor-length gown with a sequined design, simple, elegant, and festive without overshadowing the hosts. Tang Zhisong recognized it. He had caught a glimpse of it in that nine-photo grid, the one his mother had refused to show him and that Jiang Bin had restricted from his view.
Tang Zhisong gave a nod, his expression unreadable.
Jiang Bin stepped inside. Given the time constraints, she gestured toward her vanity case.
"Do you mind if I finish my makeup?"
Though it was a minor request, she asked politely. She figured he had no reason to refuse.
Moments later, the case was opened and her makeup kit was placed on the small console. A rich, concentrated fragrance immediately filled the car. Tang Zhisong did his best to suppress a frown, looking down at his phone.
The driver smelled it too and instinctively glanced at the rearview mirror. Having driven for Tang Zhisong for ten years, he knew his master’s temperament perfectly. Floral scents and powdery perfumes were his greatest dislikes.
In the mirror, he saw the Young Madam applying her makeup as if no one else were there, while the Young Master remained silent, offering no reaction whatsoever.
Now, this was rare.
During the thirty-minute drive, Jiang Bin spent nearly the entire time on her makeup. Tang Zhisong endured the scent for just as long. When she finished, he cast a fleeting glance her way.
Her eyebrows were a bit more defined and her cheeks dusted with powder, giving her a cold, glamorous look. But as he watched her, he felt a subtle preference for her earlier appearance. Without makeup, her face held a certain striking clarity when she didn't smile and a gentle warmth when she did.
Jiang Bin noticed that Tang Zhisong was unusually silent today, shrouded in a distant, lethargic aura that warned others not to approach.
* * *
They arrived at the club and made their appearance together just as the guests were gathering. Jiang Shaoyu and the Fuheng heiress were greeting people at the entrance. Seeing them arrive as a couple, Jiang Shaoyu beamed.
"Zhisong, Binbin. Father and Mother are waiting for you inside."
The banquet officially began at 7:00 PM, with the first half-hour dedicated to social pleasantries. Jiang Shaoyu left his fiancée to attend to the guests and led the couple to the VIP room adjacent to the ballroom, where Jiang Chengxiao and Chen Ling were entertaining Chairman Fu and his wife.
The moment Tang Zhisong and Jiang Bin appeared, Chairman Fu was the first to approach.
"President Tang, a pleasure to meet you."
In public, Tang Zhisong always maintained his refined, elegant, and handsome persona. He greeted the man politely.
"Chairman Fu, it’s been a long time."
Fuheng Group and Ningsheng Tech had some overlapping interests. The two companies collaborated on smart home technology. Competition among domestic e-commerce platforms was cutthroat and Chairman Fu hoped Tang Zhisong would favor his platform.
After the greetings, Tang Zhisong and Jiang Bin approached Jiang Chengxiao and his wife.
"Dad, Aunt Chen."
Assistant Li presented their gifts. Chen Ling happily took Jiang Bin’s hand and wouldn't let go.
"We're family, there was no need for gifts."
She then had Jiang Shaoyu hand over the meeting gift prepared for Tang Zhisong.
"Zhisong, you and Bingbing are just too busy. No matter how occupied you are, you should visit more often. I’ve prepared a room for the two of you at villa. You’re welcome to stay anytime."
Chen Ling had maintained Jiang Bin’s original "princess room" on the second floor. It was the best room on that level, and although Jiang Yao had tried to take it over multiple times, Chen Ling had never allowed it.
Today, Chen Ling wore a heavy silk qipao embroidered with osmanthus flowers, which suited her gentle, graceful temperament. Jiang Bin also had a rapport with Mrs. Fu and joined the two women in conversation. Jiang Shaoyu left to attend to the other guests, leaving Tang Zhisong and Jiang Chengxiao to discuss business.
Tang Zhisong had always been the junior Jiang Chengxiao admired most. He had once hoped to have him as a son-in-law but since the match with his other daughter hadn't worked out, he couldn't help but feel a lingering regret. The three men remained quite formal with one another.
Jiang Bin’s side of the hall was much more relaxed. Chen Ling had an attendant bring out a bowl of soup and placed it before Jiang Bin.
"This is wild pigeon soup. I added some Tianma and simmered it for four hours. I brought it specifically for you today. Didn't you say you were having headaches? Drink this and nourish yourself."
Before the marriage, Chen Ling made soup for Jiang Bin every few days. Even if she couldn't deliver it personally, she always arranged for it to be dropped off at the apartment. Despite the stepmother, she treated Jiang Bin with the same care as she did Jiang Yao.
"Thank you, Aunt Chen," Jiang Bin said, sitting aside to eat without standing on ceremony. She took a quiet sip before looking up. "It's been a while since I had your soup. I've missed it."
"Silly child, if you want some, just give me a call." Chen Ling leaned against her with a fond sigh.
Watching the two, Mrs. Fu couldn't help but smile.
"If I didn't know better, I’d think you two were biological mother and daughter."
The comment brought a shadow to Chen Ling’s face.
"She lost her grandparents at a young age and grew up facing many hardships," she said, her eyes reddening as she trailed off. "I wanted to bring her home to raise her, but her father has such a foul temper..."
As her voice faded, the memory of a night years ago hung in the air. Chen Ling had been the one to pull a completely unresponsive, trembling Jiang Bin from the wreckage of a car accident, spending hours comforting the child, cleaning her face, and coaxing her back to reality. Later, when an eleven-year-old Jiang Bin had begged and cried to stay in the country, Chen Ling had fought a bitter, losing battle against Jiang Chengxiao’s decision to send her abroad.
Seeing the composed woman Jiang Bin had become, Chen Ling didn't shy away from the obvious rift between father and daughter. She knew better than anyone the endurance that transformation had required.
Jiang Bin sipped her soup while replying to messages in her work group, not paying attention to their conversation. Mrs. Fu looked at Jiang Bin’s calm face and felt a secret pang of pity.
* * *
The banquet soon began in earnest. Jiang Chengxiao gave a formal speech, and the atmosphere grew lively. Buffet stations were scattered throughout the hall and a dance floor in the center was already filled with elegantly dressed couples.
At a gala like this, few people actually focused on the food. Instead, they seized every opportunity to network. Although Tang Zhisong wasn't the guest of honor, a crowd of influential figures gathered around him.
While every CEO present had impressive resources, Tang Zhisong’s network spanned the globe. He was a man of immense power wherever he went. People sought him out to gather information or pitch collaborations.
Though he didn't show it, Tang Zhisong was growing impatient. It wasn't until his parents arrived that he was able to use the excuse of "accompanying his wife" to politely withdraw, leaving the rest of the social duties to his father.
The ballroom was crowded and the air felt stuffy. Tang Zhisong stepped out onto a small balcony that could only fit two or three people. Holding a teacup, his gaze drifted across the room.
Jiang Bin leaned against the bar, sharing a conversation with President Feng, the man who had called Tang Zhisong when he sent her home. Their interaction looked remarkably pleasant. Despite his earlier excuse of "accompanying his wife", Tang Zhisong remained where he was, showing no intention of actually crossing the room to her side.
He couldn't understand why she had blocked him. She was the one who had initiated the marriage and she was also the one keeping her distance.
Jiang Bin had her own circle to tend to and her own people to entertain. Many of the Jiang Group’s shareholders, board members, and supply chain clients were present. She was destined to lead the Jiang Group and these people would one day be part of her empire. She knew exactly whom to maintain, whom to win over, and whom to divide.
After seeing off President Feng, Jiang Bin took a sip of red wine and noticed Tang Zhisong talking to someone on the balcony. It was the young heir of the Cheng family. The Jiang family and the Cheng family weren't particularly close. Jiang Shaoyu had sent an invitation more out of courtesy than anything, and the man had only showed up because of Tang Zhisong.
Tang Zhisong's circle was somewhere Jiang Bin didn't have a foothold. He hadn't formally introduced her to his friends, so she wasn't about to wander over and insert herself.
* * *
In the side hall next door, a few card tables had been set up, and a lively cluster of young socialites were deep in a game of mahjong. Jiang Yao got her group of friends settled and came back out to find her mother Chen Ling. Entering the corridor, she saw Jiang Bin surrounded by a few people while Tang Zhisong was alone on the balcony, on the phone.
Watching the couple act so independently, Jiang Yao let out a soft, mocking laugh. She had added Tang Zhisong on WeChat years ago, though his responses to her holiday greetings were never more than perfunctory. Even now, he hadn't so much as liked Jiang Bin’s post from the other night. While everyone else was praising Jiang Bin’s luck, only Jiang Yao knew their marriage was nothing more than a performance.
Midway through the banquet, Chen Ling and Jiang Chengxiao finished making their rounds and retreated to the VIP lounge, where a small mountain of gifts from guests had accumulated. Chen Ling sorted through the pile and pulled out a gift box. When she saw Jiang Yao walk in, she pressed it into her hands.
"Find Binbin and give this to her."
Jiang Yao glanced inside, noting the premium ginseng, cordyceps, and bird’s nest. Her expression shifted.
"You always save the good stuff for her." She couldn't help but grumble.
Chen Ling shot her a sharp look.
"Just go, before she decides to leave."
Jiang Yao reluctantly went out and after asking around she found Jiang Bin down on the outdoor terrace, switching fluidly between English and French with a small group of international guests. No matter where she was, Jiang Bin had a way of making any room her own. Grudgingly, Jiang Yao had to admit she admired that about her. The way she always found something to talk about with anyone.
"Jiang Bin."
Seeing that someone was looking for her, the guests excused themselves.
"Second Sister. What's up?" Jiang Bin slightly leaned against the balcony railings, holding her almost-empty wine glass.
Jiang Yao handed her the bag.
"Here. From my Mom."
Jiang Bin stared at the bag for a moment before taking it.
"Thank you. Tell Aunt Chen I appreciate it."
Jiang Yao gave a short huff. She looked at Jiang Bin's unbothered expression and felt an irritation flare up that she couldn't pin down.
"My Mom treats you like her own daughter. She makes sure you're taken care of before anyone else and has people run errands to your apartment. Jiang Bin, does none of that move you at all?"
Jiang Bin said seriously, "I have always been grateful to Aunt Chen."
"Don't give me that fake act," Jiang Yao said impatiently. "If you’re truly grateful, then back out!"
"Those are two completely different things." Jiang Bin found her sister’s behavior childish.
"They are not!" Jiang Yao snapped.
"Jiang Bin, we don't owe you anything. My mother knew my father long before any of this, and she didn't steal your mother's man. Your own mother had no feelings for my father, and you know that perfectly well. My mom has felt guilty about what happened back then for years, and she's spent all this time trying to make it up to you. Tonight of all nights, when she should be focused on my brother's engagement, she left the arrangements to someone else just to make soup for you from scratch the moment she found out you were coming. If you had any conscience at all, you wouldn't be trying to take what belongs to me and my brother!"
Jiang Bin looked at the fuming Jiang Yao, her tongue pressing against the back of her teeth. She wasn't sure what to say. Jiang Bin was a woman of class. No matter what Jiang Shaoyu or Jiang Yao did behind the scenes, she never made a scene. She would never lower herself to a public spat. She remained composed.
"Jiang Yao, I have never once stood in the way of your family's happiness. Since the New Year's Eve you told me you didn't want to see me around anymore, I haven't shown up at your door. Holidays and birthdays, I call Dad and Auntie Chen to check in, and that's it. I don't think there's anything I need to give up."
Jiang Yao sneered.
"You’re dreaming of taking over the group and pushing me, my brother, and my mother out. If that's not ungrateful, what is? My mother is so good to you, don't you have a shred of compassion?"
Jiang Bin felt she was being unreasonable.
"If you really care about your family's happiness, I'll tell you honestly. You're all more than welcome to enjoy a quiet life in the Swiss countryside, or Australia, or New Zealand. But as for the Jiang Group, I'm sorry. It has always been mine and it can only ever be mine."
The Jiang Group had been built from the ground up by her grandfather. Jiang Chengxiao had simply inherited it. Even the villa they lived in now had been her grandparents' home. It was her home too.
"You!" Jiang Yao's composure broke entirely. She bit down on the rage building inside her and let it spill out anyway, her words landing like venom.
"Most test-tube babies are born out of hope and love. What about you? Oh wait, you know exactly what you are!"
"You're nothing but a heartless human shell."
Leaving those words behind, Jiang Yao turned and stormed back into the hall.
The autumn night wind was beginning to turn cold, stinging the skin. Jiang Bin stood in silence, clutching her glass. The light in her eyes flickered along with the last drop of red wine. She maintained her elegant posture and drained the glass.
Holding her skirt, she climbed the stairs back into the hall. When she looked up, a tall figure was standing by the entrance. His gaze was deep and his expression cold.
Jiang Bin regained her smile and asked softly.
"I was busy earlier and didn't have time to check on you. Have you eaten dinner?" Her voice was faint, as if she were exhausted.
Tang Zhisong’s brow furrowed.
"I’ll take you home."
Jiang Bin blinked. He had clearly overheard the conversation. But a few words weren't enough to make her lose her composure. Her face showed no sign of distress.
"Alright. Let me say my goodbyes first." She tried to walk past him.
"To Jiang Chengxiao?" Tang Zhisong turned, his eyes dark and somber. He regretted not accompanying her earlier. If he had, Jiang Yao wouldn't have had the chance to say those things.
Jiang Bin paused, then said after a silence, "To your parents. And to the Group's shareholders."
Tang Zhisong didn't stop her. Once she was out of earshot, he sent the voice recording he had just made to Jiang Chengxiao’s phone. About five minutes later, Jiang Chengxiao called, his voice a mix of warmth and anxiety.
"Zhisong, where are you?"
Tang Zhisong stood in the shadow of the corridor, his long fingers brushing a speck of lint from his lapel. His voice was cold as ice.
"Father-in-law. Jiang Bin is big-hearted enough to let this go but I am not. I expect an explanation for this."
Seeing Jiang Bin approaching, he hung up and walked out with her. The driver had pulled the car to the curb and they both got in. As the car began to move toward Zhouyue International, the window remained open. Jiang Bin stared out at the passing cityscape, her expression cold.
The night fell and the flickering lights of the city passed through her dark eyes. The usual clarity in her gaze was gone, replaced by a resilience that no storm could wash away. For a long time after the accident, she had been like a hedgehog, suspicious of everyone and lashing out until she was bruised and bloody. She had screamed and cried but it changed nothing. Eventually, her quills had been filed down, turning into a hard suit of armor.
She wasn't used to letting negative emotions control her. She leaned her head toward the window, the wind whistling past her. Usually, after leaving the Jiang house, she was alone. Tonight, Tang Zhisong was with her. Jiang Bin felt a strange sense of contentment.
Tang Zhisong’s phone was buzzing with messages. While replying, he stole a glance at her. Her face was pale as she leaned against the window, though she didn't seem visibly depressed.
They were silent the whole way. Jiang Bin expected him to drop her at the lobby like last time but the car drove straight into the underground garage and stopped at her building. Tang Zhisong got out first and opened her door for her. Jiang Bin stepped out, ready to thank him, but he was already walking toward the elevator.
Is he walking me up?
Jiang Bin pressed her fingers to her temple and followed. The tower had one elevator to a unit and the two of them stepped in together. They didn't often stand this close. He was tall and even in her eight-centimeter heels she barely reached his ear.
The elevator climbed fast. In the enclosed space, the wine on her breath became rather noticeable.
Tang Zhisong glanced down at her.
"Drink less next time."
That was Mu Yun's favorite thing to say. And now somehow Tang Zhisong was saying it too.
Jiang Bin covered her mouth and stepped aside, putting some distance between them.
"You didn't drink at all tonight?"
His aura remained crisp and clean, untouched by the world. Tang Zhisong didn't answer. Not many people were in a position to force him to drink. The higher one climbed, the fewer reasons there were to do so.
The elevator arrived. Jiang Bin pressed her thumb to the scanner, her movements uncharacteristically slow, as if she were wordlessly stalling for time. She could feel his powerful presence behind her. Part of her wanted to invite him in, yet the faint scent of alcohol on her breath made her hesitate. She didn't want to leave a bad impression. Still, if he were to ask, she wouldn't find a reason to refuse him.
She was rarely this indecisive.
As the door opened, she stepped inside and turned around.
"Thank you for bringing me home."
Tang Zhisong had expected her to invite him in but since she didn't, he didn't push. His gaze fell on her elegant gown. Remembering the restricted Moments post, the noble man offered a meaningful compliment.
"Those gowns are quite nice."
Jiang Bin felt a small flicker of disappointment that he hadn't asked to come in. She didn't read too much into his words..
"Thanks again. Drive safely."
Tang Zhisong stepped back and pressed the elevator button. Jiang Bin watched his silhouette disappear before she closed the door.
She made herself a cup of hangover tea, went to shower, and came out toweling her hair when his last words flashed through her mind.
Those gowns...?
Those?
She dropped her towel and grabbed her phone. She checked her WeChat settings and saw the "Chat Only" restriction on Tang Zhisong’s profile. She finally understood.
She quickly dried her hair and called him. He picked up almost immediately.
"Hello?"
"When I first added you, I thought you didn't use Moments so I set it to chat only. After we got married I completely forgot. I didn't block you on purpose." Jiang Bin rushed to explain before she hung up and immediately went to fix the permission settings.
In his study, Tang Zhisong was looking at his computer while holding his phone. After a moment, he checked her Moments, scrolled through them carefully and liked the nine-photo grid.
When Jiang Bin saw the notification, the small disappointment from earlier when he hadn't come inside quietly dissolved.
Somewhere along the way, without either of them quite noticing, they had each begun to expect something from the other.
Translator's Notes:
August 20th was Jiang Shaoyu’s birthday, as well as his engagement banquet to the daughter of the Fuheng Group.
Fuheng Group operated the largest e-commerce platform in the country, with a market capitalization ranking in the top ten domestically. This alliance was clearly Jiang Shaoyu’s attempt to counterbalance Jiang Bin’s influence. The Jiang family had invited the elite of Shanghai, including several multinational tycoons. Jiang Bin herself had received a personal invitation from her brother.
"Binbin, you haven't made a formal visit home since you married Tang Zhisong. You must show up this time."
Jiang Bin agreed. After checking Tang Zhisong’s schedule and confirming he would be in Shanghai on the 20th, she sent him a message.
[It's my brother's birthday banquet on the 20th. Are you free to attend?]
Since Tang Zhisong’s return from the United States, their only contact had been sharing their respective itineraries. He stared at Jiang Bin’s profile picture for a long while before replying with a simple: [Okay.]
Jiang Bin followed up with the time and location: [6:30 PM on the 20th, Sangjiang Club.]
Since every influential figure in Shanghai would be present, it wouldn't be appropriate for her and Tang Zhisong to appear separately.
[My office is near your residence. Should I pick you up on the way?]
She had learned from Madam Tang that Tang Zhisong’s apartment was at Emerald Heights, just west of the Jiang Group headquarters and just a few minutes' walk away.
Tang Zhisong stared at his phone, calculating the timing. He would be at the office by then, but she would likely return home early to prepare. His office was actually closer to her apartment than her own workplace.
By asking that, she wasn't really offering him a ride, she was telling him to pick her up.
[6:00 PM. I’ll pick you up.]
* * *
On the evening of the 20th, Jiang Bin returned to Zhouyue International half an hour early. Li Yang helped her into her gown, but she hadn't started her makeup when Tang Zhisong called.
"I’m downstairs."
With only thirty minutes until the banquet, there was no time to finish her makeup before leaving. Jiang Bin had no choice but to bring her vanity case downstairs.
The Cullinan was parked in its usual spot. The concierge opened the door for her, revealing Tang Zhisong inside. He wore a crisp white shirt and black trousers, topped with a bow tie, a formal ensemble. Even a standard-cut suit couldn't hide his noble, commanding presence.
This was their first meeting since their dinner, and their eyes met briefly. Tang Zhisong’s gaze drifted to Jiang Bin’s dress.
It was a champagne-pink floor-length gown with a sequined design, simple, elegant, and festive without overshadowing the hosts. Tang Zhisong recognized it. He had caught a glimpse of it in that nine-photo grid, the one his mother had refused to show him and that Jiang Bin had restricted from his view.
Tang Zhisong gave a nod, his expression unreadable.
Jiang Bin stepped inside. Given the time constraints, she gestured toward her vanity case.
"Do you mind if I finish my makeup?"
Though it was a minor request, she asked politely. She figured he had no reason to refuse.
Moments later, the case was opened and her makeup kit was placed on the small console. A rich, concentrated fragrance immediately filled the car. Tang Zhisong did his best to suppress a frown, looking down at his phone.
The driver smelled it too and instinctively glanced at the rearview mirror. Having driven for Tang Zhisong for ten years, he knew his master’s temperament perfectly. Floral scents and powdery perfumes were his greatest dislikes.
In the mirror, he saw the Young Madam applying her makeup as if no one else were there, while the Young Master remained silent, offering no reaction whatsoever.
Now, this was rare.
During the thirty-minute drive, Jiang Bin spent nearly the entire time on her makeup. Tang Zhisong endured the scent for just as long. When she finished, he cast a fleeting glance her way.
Her eyebrows were a bit more defined and her cheeks dusted with powder, giving her a cold, glamorous look. But as he watched her, he felt a subtle preference for her earlier appearance. Without makeup, her face held a certain striking clarity when she didn't smile and a gentle warmth when she did.
Jiang Bin noticed that Tang Zhisong was unusually silent today, shrouded in a distant, lethargic aura that warned others not to approach.
She didn't think she had the weight to influence his emotions. He was likely unhappy about something else. Since he was in a foul mood, she didn't bother trying to find a topic of conversation.
* * *
They arrived at the club and made their appearance together just as the guests were gathering. Jiang Shaoyu and the Fuheng heiress were greeting people at the entrance. Seeing them arrive as a couple, Jiang Shaoyu beamed.
"Zhisong, Binbin. Father and Mother are waiting for you inside."
The banquet officially began at 7:00 PM, with the first half-hour dedicated to social pleasantries. Jiang Shaoyu left his fiancée to attend to the guests and led the couple to the VIP room adjacent to the ballroom, where Jiang Chengxiao and Chen Ling were entertaining Chairman Fu and his wife.
The moment Tang Zhisong and Jiang Bin appeared, Chairman Fu was the first to approach.
"President Tang, a pleasure to meet you."
In public, Tang Zhisong always maintained his refined, elegant, and handsome persona. He greeted the man politely.
"Chairman Fu, it’s been a long time."
Fuheng Group and Ningsheng Tech had some overlapping interests. The two companies collaborated on smart home technology. Competition among domestic e-commerce platforms was cutthroat and Chairman Fu hoped Tang Zhisong would favor his platform.
After the greetings, Tang Zhisong and Jiang Bin approached Jiang Chengxiao and his wife.
"Dad, Aunt Chen."
Assistant Li presented their gifts. Chen Ling happily took Jiang Bin’s hand and wouldn't let go.
"We're family, there was no need for gifts."
She then had Jiang Shaoyu hand over the meeting gift prepared for Tang Zhisong.
"Zhisong, you and Bingbing are just too busy. No matter how occupied you are, you should visit more often. I’ve prepared a room for the two of you at villa. You’re welcome to stay anytime."
Chen Ling had maintained Jiang Bin’s original "princess room" on the second floor. It was the best room on that level, and although Jiang Yao had tried to take it over multiple times, Chen Ling had never allowed it.
Today, Chen Ling wore a heavy silk qipao embroidered with osmanthus flowers, which suited her gentle, graceful temperament. Jiang Bin also had a rapport with Mrs. Fu and joined the two women in conversation. Jiang Shaoyu left to attend to the other guests, leaving Tang Zhisong and Jiang Chengxiao to discuss business.
Tang Zhisong had always been the junior Jiang Chengxiao admired most. He had once hoped to have him as a son-in-law but since the match with his other daughter hadn't worked out, he couldn't help but feel a lingering regret. The three men remained quite formal with one another.
Jiang Bin’s side of the hall was much more relaxed. Chen Ling had an attendant bring out a bowl of soup and placed it before Jiang Bin.
"This is wild pigeon soup. I added some Tianma and simmered it for four hours. I brought it specifically for you today. Didn't you say you were having headaches? Drink this and nourish yourself."
Before the marriage, Chen Ling made soup for Jiang Bin every few days. Even if she couldn't deliver it personally, she always arranged for it to be dropped off at the apartment. Despite the stepmother, she treated Jiang Bin with the same care as she did Jiang Yao.
"Thank you, Aunt Chen," Jiang Bin said, sitting aside to eat without standing on ceremony. She took a quiet sip before looking up. "It's been a while since I had your soup. I've missed it."
"Silly child, if you want some, just give me a call." Chen Ling leaned against her with a fond sigh.
Watching the two, Mrs. Fu couldn't help but smile.
"If I didn't know better, I’d think you two were biological mother and daughter."
The comment brought a shadow to Chen Ling’s face.
"She lost her grandparents at a young age and grew up facing many hardships," she said, her eyes reddening as she trailed off. "I wanted to bring her home to raise her, but her father has such a foul temper..."
As her voice faded, the memory of a night years ago hung in the air. Chen Ling had been the one to pull a completely unresponsive, trembling Jiang Bin from the wreckage of a car accident, spending hours comforting the child, cleaning her face, and coaxing her back to reality. Later, when an eleven-year-old Jiang Bin had begged and cried to stay in the country, Chen Ling had fought a bitter, losing battle against Jiang Chengxiao’s decision to send her abroad.
Seeing the composed woman Jiang Bin had become, Chen Ling didn't shy away from the obvious rift between father and daughter. She knew better than anyone the endurance that transformation had required.
Jiang Bin sipped her soup while replying to messages in her work group, not paying attention to their conversation. Mrs. Fu looked at Jiang Bin’s calm face and felt a secret pang of pity.
* * *
The banquet soon began in earnest. Jiang Chengxiao gave a formal speech, and the atmosphere grew lively. Buffet stations were scattered throughout the hall and a dance floor in the center was already filled with elegantly dressed couples.
At a gala like this, few people actually focused on the food. Instead, they seized every opportunity to network. Although Tang Zhisong wasn't the guest of honor, a crowd of influential figures gathered around him.
While every CEO present had impressive resources, Tang Zhisong’s network spanned the globe. He was a man of immense power wherever he went. People sought him out to gather information or pitch collaborations.
Though he didn't show it, Tang Zhisong was growing impatient. It wasn't until his parents arrived that he was able to use the excuse of "accompanying his wife" to politely withdraw, leaving the rest of the social duties to his father.
The ballroom was crowded and the air felt stuffy. Tang Zhisong stepped out onto a small balcony that could only fit two or three people. Holding a teacup, his gaze drifted across the room.
Jiang Bin leaned against the bar, sharing a conversation with President Feng, the man who had called Tang Zhisong when he sent her home. Their interaction looked remarkably pleasant. Despite his earlier excuse of "accompanying his wife", Tang Zhisong remained where he was, showing no intention of actually crossing the room to her side.
He couldn't understand why she had blocked him. She was the one who had initiated the marriage and she was also the one keeping her distance.
Jiang Bin had her own circle to tend to and her own people to entertain. Many of the Jiang Group’s shareholders, board members, and supply chain clients were present. She was destined to lead the Jiang Group and these people would one day be part of her empire. She knew exactly whom to maintain, whom to win over, and whom to divide.
After seeing off President Feng, Jiang Bin took a sip of red wine and noticed Tang Zhisong talking to someone on the balcony. It was the young heir of the Cheng family. The Jiang family and the Cheng family weren't particularly close. Jiang Shaoyu had sent an invitation more out of courtesy than anything, and the man had only showed up because of Tang Zhisong.
Tang Zhisong's circle was somewhere Jiang Bin didn't have a foothold. He hadn't formally introduced her to his friends, so she wasn't about to wander over and insert herself.
* * *
In the side hall next door, a few card tables had been set up, and a lively cluster of young socialites were deep in a game of mahjong. Jiang Yao got her group of friends settled and came back out to find her mother Chen Ling. Entering the corridor, she saw Jiang Bin surrounded by a few people while Tang Zhisong was alone on the balcony, on the phone.
Watching the couple act so independently, Jiang Yao let out a soft, mocking laugh. She had added Tang Zhisong on WeChat years ago, though his responses to her holiday greetings were never more than perfunctory. Even now, he hadn't so much as liked Jiang Bin’s post from the other night. While everyone else was praising Jiang Bin’s luck, only Jiang Yao knew their marriage was nothing more than a performance.
Midway through the banquet, Chen Ling and Jiang Chengxiao finished making their rounds and retreated to the VIP lounge, where a small mountain of gifts from guests had accumulated. Chen Ling sorted through the pile and pulled out a gift box. When she saw Jiang Yao walk in, she pressed it into her hands.
"Find Binbin and give this to her."
Jiang Yao glanced inside, noting the premium ginseng, cordyceps, and bird’s nest. Her expression shifted.
"You always save the good stuff for her." She couldn't help but grumble.
Chen Ling shot her a sharp look.
"Just go, before she decides to leave."
Jiang Yao reluctantly went out and after asking around she found Jiang Bin down on the outdoor terrace, switching fluidly between English and French with a small group of international guests. No matter where she was, Jiang Bin had a way of making any room her own. Grudgingly, Jiang Yao had to admit she admired that about her. The way she always found something to talk about with anyone.
"Jiang Bin."
Seeing that someone was looking for her, the guests excused themselves.
"Second Sister. What's up?" Jiang Bin slightly leaned against the balcony railings, holding her almost-empty wine glass.
Jiang Yao handed her the bag.
"Here. From my Mom."
Jiang Bin stared at the bag for a moment before taking it.
"Thank you. Tell Aunt Chen I appreciate it."
Jiang Yao gave a short huff. She looked at Jiang Bin's unbothered expression and felt an irritation flare up that she couldn't pin down.
"My Mom treats you like her own daughter. She makes sure you're taken care of before anyone else and has people run errands to your apartment. Jiang Bin, does none of that move you at all?"
Jiang Bin said seriously, "I have always been grateful to Aunt Chen."
"Don't give me that fake act," Jiang Yao said impatiently. "If you’re truly grateful, then back out!"
"Those are two completely different things." Jiang Bin found her sister’s behavior childish.
"They are not!" Jiang Yao snapped.
"Jiang Bin, we don't owe you anything. My mother knew my father long before any of this, and she didn't steal your mother's man. Your own mother had no feelings for my father, and you know that perfectly well. My mom has felt guilty about what happened back then for years, and she's spent all this time trying to make it up to you. Tonight of all nights, when she should be focused on my brother's engagement, she left the arrangements to someone else just to make soup for you from scratch the moment she found out you were coming. If you had any conscience at all, you wouldn't be trying to take what belongs to me and my brother!"
Jiang Bin looked at the fuming Jiang Yao, her tongue pressing against the back of her teeth. She wasn't sure what to say. Jiang Bin was a woman of class. No matter what Jiang Shaoyu or Jiang Yao did behind the scenes, she never made a scene. She would never lower herself to a public spat. She remained composed.
"Jiang Yao, I have never once stood in the way of your family's happiness. Since the New Year's Eve you told me you didn't want to see me around anymore, I haven't shown up at your door. Holidays and birthdays, I call Dad and Auntie Chen to check in, and that's it. I don't think there's anything I need to give up."
Jiang Yao sneered.
"You’re dreaming of taking over the group and pushing me, my brother, and my mother out. If that's not ungrateful, what is? My mother is so good to you, don't you have a shred of compassion?"
Jiang Bin felt she was being unreasonable.
"If you really care about your family's happiness, I'll tell you honestly. You're all more than welcome to enjoy a quiet life in the Swiss countryside, or Australia, or New Zealand. But as for the Jiang Group, I'm sorry. It has always been mine and it can only ever be mine."
The Jiang Group had been built from the ground up by her grandfather. Jiang Chengxiao had simply inherited it. Even the villa they lived in now had been her grandparents' home. It was her home too.
"You!" Jiang Yao's composure broke entirely. She bit down on the rage building inside her and let it spill out anyway, her words landing like venom.
"Most test-tube babies are born out of hope and love. What about you? Oh wait, you know exactly what you are!"
"You're nothing but a heartless human shell."
Leaving those words behind, Jiang Yao turned and stormed back into the hall.
The autumn night wind was beginning to turn cold, stinging the skin. Jiang Bin stood in silence, clutching her glass. The light in her eyes flickered along with the last drop of red wine. She maintained her elegant posture and drained the glass.
Holding her skirt, she climbed the stairs back into the hall. When she looked up, a tall figure was standing by the entrance. His gaze was deep and his expression cold.
Jiang Bin regained her smile and asked softly.
"I was busy earlier and didn't have time to check on you. Have you eaten dinner?" Her voice was faint, as if she were exhausted.
Tang Zhisong’s brow furrowed.
"I’ll take you home."
Jiang Bin blinked. He had clearly overheard the conversation. But a few words weren't enough to make her lose her composure. Her face showed no sign of distress.
"Alright. Let me say my goodbyes first." She tried to walk past him.
"To Jiang Chengxiao?" Tang Zhisong turned, his eyes dark and somber. He regretted not accompanying her earlier. If he had, Jiang Yao wouldn't have had the chance to say those things.
Jiang Bin paused, then said after a silence, "To your parents. And to the Group's shareholders."
Tang Zhisong didn't stop her. Once she was out of earshot, he sent the voice recording he had just made to Jiang Chengxiao’s phone. About five minutes later, Jiang Chengxiao called, his voice a mix of warmth and anxiety.
"Zhisong, where are you?"
Tang Zhisong stood in the shadow of the corridor, his long fingers brushing a speck of lint from his lapel. His voice was cold as ice.
"Father-in-law. Jiang Bin is big-hearted enough to let this go but I am not. I expect an explanation for this."
Seeing Jiang Bin approaching, he hung up and walked out with her. The driver had pulled the car to the curb and they both got in. As the car began to move toward Zhouyue International, the window remained open. Jiang Bin stared out at the passing cityscape, her expression cold.
The night fell and the flickering lights of the city passed through her dark eyes. The usual clarity in her gaze was gone, replaced by a resilience that no storm could wash away. For a long time after the accident, she had been like a hedgehog, suspicious of everyone and lashing out until she was bruised and bloody. She had screamed and cried but it changed nothing. Eventually, her quills had been filed down, turning into a hard suit of armor.
She wasn't used to letting negative emotions control her. She leaned her head toward the window, the wind whistling past her. Usually, after leaving the Jiang house, she was alone. Tonight, Tang Zhisong was with her. Jiang Bin felt a strange sense of contentment.
Tang Zhisong’s phone was buzzing with messages. While replying, he stole a glance at her. Her face was pale as she leaned against the window, though she didn't seem visibly depressed.
They were silent the whole way. Jiang Bin expected him to drop her at the lobby like last time but the car drove straight into the underground garage and stopped at her building. Tang Zhisong got out first and opened her door for her. Jiang Bin stepped out, ready to thank him, but he was already walking toward the elevator.
Is he walking me up?
Jiang Bin pressed her fingers to her temple and followed. The tower had one elevator to a unit and the two of them stepped in together. They didn't often stand this close. He was tall and even in her eight-centimeter heels she barely reached his ear.
The elevator climbed fast. In the enclosed space, the wine on her breath became rather noticeable.
Tang Zhisong glanced down at her.
"Drink less next time."
That was Mu Yun's favorite thing to say. And now somehow Tang Zhisong was saying it too.
Jiang Bin covered her mouth and stepped aside, putting some distance between them.
"You didn't drink at all tonight?"
His aura remained crisp and clean, untouched by the world. Tang Zhisong didn't answer. Not many people were in a position to force him to drink. The higher one climbed, the fewer reasons there were to do so.
The elevator arrived. Jiang Bin pressed her thumb to the scanner, her movements uncharacteristically slow, as if she were wordlessly stalling for time. She could feel his powerful presence behind her. Part of her wanted to invite him in, yet the faint scent of alcohol on her breath made her hesitate. She didn't want to leave a bad impression. Still, if he were to ask, she wouldn't find a reason to refuse him.
She was rarely this indecisive.
As the door opened, she stepped inside and turned around.
"Thank you for bringing me home."
Tang Zhisong had expected her to invite him in but since she didn't, he didn't push. His gaze fell on her elegant gown. Remembering the restricted Moments post, the noble man offered a meaningful compliment.
"Those gowns are quite nice."
Jiang Bin felt a small flicker of disappointment that he hadn't asked to come in. She didn't read too much into his words..
"Thanks again. Drive safely."
Tang Zhisong stepped back and pressed the elevator button. Jiang Bin watched his silhouette disappear before she closed the door.
She made herself a cup of hangover tea, went to shower, and came out toweling her hair when his last words flashed through her mind.
Those gowns...?
Those?
She dropped her towel and grabbed her phone. She checked her WeChat settings and saw the "Chat Only" restriction on Tang Zhisong’s profile. She finally understood.
She quickly dried her hair and called him. He picked up almost immediately.
"Hello?"
"When I first added you, I thought you didn't use Moments so I set it to chat only. After we got married I completely forgot. I didn't block you on purpose." Jiang Bin rushed to explain before she hung up and immediately went to fix the permission settings.
In his study, Tang Zhisong was looking at his computer while holding his phone. After a moment, he checked her Moments, scrolled through them carefully and liked the nine-photo grid.
When Jiang Bin saw the notification, the small disappointment from earlier when he hadn't come inside quietly dissolved.
Somewhere along the way, without either of them quite noticing, they had each begun to expect something from the other.
Translator's Notes:
- Tianma (天麻): It’s a prized traditional Chinese medicinal herb specifically known for "extinguishing wind" and calming the liver. Basically, it's the go-to remedy for dizziness and severe headaches.
- Moments (朋友圈): As a reminder, this is the social feed on WeChat.
- "Test-tube Baby" (试管婴儿): refers to a child conceived via IVF.
Comments
Post a Comment