The Marriage Harbor CH8
Chapter 8: "From Now On, I’ll Let You Know Whenever I Go Out"
Tang Zhisong came from a technical background and had held several patents since his university days. For more than a decade, research and development had remained his top priority. With the company investing hundreds of billions annually under his direct command, he often became so consumed by work that he lost track of time.
It wasn't until 6:00 PM that he finally checked his phone. Seeing the message from his mother, he fell into a long silence.
His mother’s intention was obvious.
In all honesty, when he first agreed to the alliance, he had considered profit and cooperation above all else. But marriage was clearly not the same as negotiating a project. With a project, the terms were defined. With marriage, expectations accumulated invisibly.
Unknowingly, you would be pushed forward by others.
Like Qixi.
Like the message in front of him now.
Tang Zhisong had no other women around him. Unless work required it, he did not add anyone’s contact, be it male or female. He kept his distance. Maintaining a clean, private and reclusive lifestyle.
But Jiang Bin was different. Back when they were abroad, he had already heard that she had no shortage of admirers. Ever since rumors of their potential marriage began circulating, jokes were often made in front of him. What kind of man Jiang Bin liked, he did not know. Whether she was willing to actually live a life with him, he knew even less.
She had been the one to propose this marriage and he had simply accepted. She was also the one who had set the three ground rules. So whether they would become a real married couple or remain a contractual one, that choice should be hers.
He was used to being the hunter at the top of the food chain, waiting for the prey to show its head before making a move.
He would wait for her answer.
[I understand.]
He replied to his mother, then switched off his phone.
* * *
Jiang Bin spent the day balancing rest and work. By evening, Mu Yun called. Hearing she was home alone, he offered to come over and cook for her.
"No need. My mother-in-law brought a five-star chef over this afternoon. There's a table full of food so I can just reheat the leftovers for dinner."
Mu Yun fell quiet. There was nothing to argue with.
“Then at least stir-fry a vegetable. You need balanced nutrition.”
Jiang Bin thought to herself that her cousin was truly a good man. Whoever married him would be lucky.
"Uncle Lu mentioned on the phone today that Mom found a blind date for you. You didn't go?"
Mu Lingshu was Mu Yun’s aunt. He was twenty-eight this year. Marriageable age.
Mu Yun felt a wave of helplessness. If only his aunt had given even a fraction of that concern to her own daughter, their relationship might not be so strained.
“The hospital is expanding. I don’t have time.”
Jiang Bin popped a slice of tuna into her mouth.
“I’m this busy and still found time to get married. Why can’t you?”
“Can you even count that as marriage?” Mu Yun countered flatly.
He knew Tang Zhisong hadn't stayed at the hospital the night before. Unfortunately, Mu Yun wasn’t close enough to Tang Zhishong to demand he treat his cousin better.
“You’re the only one who dares talk to me like this.” Jiang Bin clicked her tongue.
Over the next three days, her phone remained quiet. Tang Zhisong hadn't reacted at all, so Jiang Bin put the matter of the house out of her mind.
* * *
On the evening of August 10th, there was an investment conference hosted by the heir of Tianmao Group. The invitation had arrived days ago. Jiang Bin left work at 5:30 PM and Li Yang arrived at her apartment with a stylist and makeup artist.
"President Jiang, what kind of hairstyle are we doing today?"
Usually, Jiang Bin wore her hair up in a professional bun with a small suit, creating a sharp, capable image. She hadn't always dressed this way, but after returning to China, she was constantly in business settings dealing with corporate tycoons, capital magnates, or "playboy" heirs. Without exception, many were distracted by her beauty. As business deals were delayed and unwanted pursuers multiplied, she had opted for a more subdued presence.
But now that she was married to Tang Zhisong, no "rotten peach blossoms" would come knocking. She could afford to use her appearance strategically.
“Big curls, those 'femme fatale' waves.”
The stylist let out a delighted sound.
“President Jiang, I’ve always said your bone structure is striking. This hairstyle will suit you perfectly.”
The look naturally called for a backless gown. Jiang Bin eventually chose a champagne-colored, form-fitting long gown.
Li Yang eyed her exposed skin with concern.
“Your period isn’t over. The air conditioning will be strong. Should I prepare heat patches?”
Women in business chose presence over comfort.
"No need. With my hair down, it should be fine."
Mu Yun had also received an invitation. Since they lived in the same community, they planned to go together. Jiang Bin gave Uncle Liu the night off and rode in Mu Yun’s car. As always, she took the back seat and closed her eyes to rest while he started the engine.
Upon arrival, Jiang Bin handed her silk scarf to Li Yang and entered the hall with her head held high. Mu Yun frowned at her light attire.
“Drink less tonight.” He murmured beside her. Alcohol could easily trigger her migraines.
Accustomed to his nagging, Jiang Bin gave a noncommittal "Okay."
The conference was held inside a historic building. A classic-style banquet hall filled with prominent guests. Socialites, industry leaders, entertainment stars. Everyone glittered. Everyone scanned the room for opportunity.
The second floor hosted major players, business worth billions casually discussed. Access was selective.
The third floor held private card tables for leisure once deals were settled.
This was Jiang Bin’s first public appearance at such an event since her marriage. Her arrival caused a ripple. Several magazine editors she knew came forward with congratulations.
“When’s the wedding banquet? Don’t forget us.” An invitation to Jiang Bin and Tang Zhisong’s wedding would not be easy to obtain.
"I’ll let you know once the date is set." Jiang Bin smiled.
As they talked, Young Master Zhou of Tianmao Group personally came downstairs to greet her.
"Binbin, you came alone?" He looked behind her, searching for Tang Zhisong.
Jiang Bin caught the implication. She smiled evenly.
"What, is my presence not enough?"
Smart home technology was only one branch of Ningsheng Technology. What truly unsettled competitors was Tang Zhisong’s software and hardware development strength. His chip company supplied major domestic corporations. When international sanctions tightened around China, his channels became a lifeline.
At his level, too many people sought him out. If he could avoid appearing, he did.
Because of the house issue, she hadn't contacted him in days. Truthfully, they never spoke privately unless there was a reason. She didn't know he had an invitation, let alone if he would show up.
"My father sent him an invitation," Young Master Zhou said regretfully. "I thought I’d be able to bask in your light and see him here."
Jiang Bin neither confirmed nor denied. She shifted the topic.
The second floor was reserved for the ultra-wealthy, including heirs, directors, and investors. She spotted Jiang Yao and her older brother Jiang Shaoyu. One visible change after her marriage alliance was the increase in people proactively greeting her. The Zhou heir accompanied her through introductions.
Once the key guests had arrived, conversation turned animated. Jiang Bin was seated beside Jiang Shaoyu.
The most sensational news in Shanghai recently had been her marriage to Tang Zhisong. It could directly impact the future ownership of Jiang Group.
“I met Madam Tang and the second madam recently,” someone remarked.
“They said you two were very close and were actually childhood sweethearts.”
Jiang Bin wouldn't undermine her mother-in-law or aunt, so she simply smiled without speaking.
Beside her, Jiang Shaoyu leaned in.
"By the way, Binbin, why isn't President Tang here today?"
Jiang Bin caught the mocking glint in his eyes and understood perfectly. Everyone here treated her differently because they thought she had Tang Zhisong's backing. Her brother, however, knew their marriage was a mere business deal. He wanted to expose the "plastic" nature of the union so people wouldn't take her too seriously. Previously, Jiang Bin wouldn't even have a seat at this table. Now she sat as Shaoyu's equal, and he felt the threat.
All eyes turned to her.
Jiang Bin remained unfazed.
"Ningsheng’s competitor, WestTech, is launching a new product. He’s been working overtime all weekend. He’s so busy he sometimes doesn't even have time to reply to my messages." It left her room to maneuver.
Jiang Shaoyu smiled but said nothing.
As a waltz began, people drifted to the dance floor. Jiang Bin intended to send Tang Zhisong a message just in case, but she was too busy with the constant stream of socializers.
A young man in a tailored suit approached her, a glass of champagne in his hand.
"Binbin, why did you marry Tang Zhishong so hastily?”
This was the persistent second son of the Shen family, the one who had tried to send her flowers on Valentine's Day.
“It wasn’t hasty at all," she replied. "It was a carefully made decision."
Heartbroken, he held out a hand in invitation.
"Dance one set with me today and I'll give up."
"I can have a drink with you," Jiang Bin toasted him, "but I’ll pass on the dance."
Seeing her about to drink, Mu Yun stepped in.
"Master Shen, if you want to drink, I'll join you. Binbin isn’t feeling well today—”
Before he could finish, a commotion broke out by the second-floor stairs. Several elite gentlemen were descending from the third floor. In the center was a man in a light-colored shirt and trousers. Bathed in the shifting lights of the dance floor, he looked toward them with a poised, aristocratic air. His eyes were warm but deep, showing not a hint of a ripple.
It was Tang Zhisong.
One of his childhood friends was having a birthday and had dragged him out of the office for cards. He had intended to play a few rounds and leave, but upon hearing Jiang Bin was downstairs, he made an appearance.
The host, President Zhou of Tianmao Group, immediately rushed over. "President Tang! What a rare guest!"
Jiang Bin’s gaze met Tang Zhisong’s through the crowd. She looked at his casual attire and sighed in internal defeat. He clearly looked like he was out having fun with friends yet she had just told everyone he was buried in work at the office.
'What rotten luck!' she thought. Publicly executed.
Sure enough, Jiang Yao seized the opportunity to sneer.
"Oh? Is President Tang upstairs playing cards with friends? And here Jiang Bin was saying you were too busy with overtime to accompany her."
If there were a crack in the floor, Jiang Bin would have crawled into it. The atmosphere turned incredibly subtle.
Tang Zhisong almost didn't recognize Jiang Bin at first. Her outfit was different, featuring a slightly deep V-neck showing her ivory curves, a multi-colored diamond necklace and a mermaid silhouette that hugged her tall, slender frame. Her makeup was soft and with those "femme fatale" waves, she looked stunning.
Jiang Yao’s words had made Jiang Bin’s predicament clear to everyone.
Tang Zhisong’s expression didn't change. He greeted President Zhou then walked toward Jiang Bin with his suit jacket draped over his arm. He smiled elegantly at the crowd.
"I am busy," he said mildly. “I was passing by. Came to pick her up.”
As he spoke, he naturally draped his jacket over Jiang Bin’s shoulders. The crisp scent of his cologne, mingled with his body heat, enveloped her. Her expression froze for a second as the chill from the air conditioning faded.
At the same time, the hem of the jacket swept past Mu Yun and Master Shen like a silent wave. Despite his gentle smile and poised actions, he exuded an invisible edge that made people want to back away.
Mu Yun gave Tang Zhisong a long look before turning to pour a drink. Master Shen stared at the jacket on Jiang Bin's shoulders as if it were a thorn in his eye and turned away with a dark face.
Tang Zhisong standing beside her, both stunning and possessing equal auras, made people remark on what a perfect couple they were.
“President Tang is very attentive.” Someone remarked.
But Jiang Yao wouldn't let it go.
"President Tang comes to pick her up without even saying a word?"
Tang Zhisong looked down at Jiang Bin, his gaze helpless yet warm.
"I wanted to give her a surprise."
With one simple sentence, the tension dissolved.
Jiang Bin pulled the jacket tighter and met his gaze.
"So that's why you didn't reply when I messaged you?"
"I was driving and didn't check," Tang Zhisong said apologetically. "It won't happen again."
He played the part perfectly. The act was over. Since he was there to "pick her up", they didn't stay long.
Outside, the building opened onto a plaza. No underground parking. Cars had to pull up front. The night air was heavy with heat. Jiang Bin returned the jacket to Tang Zhisong and their expressions returned to normal.
After the near-miss with her reputation, Tang Zhisong spoke in a low voice.
"I'm usually at the company. But from now on, if I need to go somewhere, I'll let you know."
He wanted to prevent another situation where she didn't know his whereabouts. The wording carried a faint domestic implication and Jiang Bin wondered if this was a signal he was sending.
"Alright. I’ll send you my weekly schedule as well." She said as she smoothed her hair.
Tang Zhisong nodded. As they stood by the streetlight waiting for his driver, the crowd flowed past like a tide. Jiang Bin stood two steps behind him. She had come with Mu Yun. Her driver wasn't there, and she wasn't sure how she was getting home.
Translator's Notes:
Tang Zhisong came from a technical background and had held several patents since his university days. For more than a decade, research and development had remained his top priority. With the company investing hundreds of billions annually under his direct command, he often became so consumed by work that he lost track of time.
It wasn't until 6:00 PM that he finally checked his phone. Seeing the message from his mother, he fell into a long silence.
His mother’s intention was obvious.
In all honesty, when he first agreed to the alliance, he had considered profit and cooperation above all else. But marriage was clearly not the same as negotiating a project. With a project, the terms were defined. With marriage, expectations accumulated invisibly.
Unknowingly, you would be pushed forward by others.
Like Qixi.
Like the message in front of him now.
Tang Zhisong had no other women around him. Unless work required it, he did not add anyone’s contact, be it male or female. He kept his distance. Maintaining a clean, private and reclusive lifestyle.
But Jiang Bin was different. Back when they were abroad, he had already heard that she had no shortage of admirers. Ever since rumors of their potential marriage began circulating, jokes were often made in front of him. What kind of man Jiang Bin liked, he did not know. Whether she was willing to actually live a life with him, he knew even less.
She had been the one to propose this marriage and he had simply accepted. She was also the one who had set the three ground rules. So whether they would become a real married couple or remain a contractual one, that choice should be hers.
He was used to being the hunter at the top of the food chain, waiting for the prey to show its head before making a move.
He would wait for her answer.
[I understand.]
He replied to his mother, then switched off his phone.
* * *
Jiang Bin spent the day balancing rest and work. By evening, Mu Yun called. Hearing she was home alone, he offered to come over and cook for her.
"No need. My mother-in-law brought a five-star chef over this afternoon. There's a table full of food so I can just reheat the leftovers for dinner."
Mu Yun fell quiet. There was nothing to argue with.
“Then at least stir-fry a vegetable. You need balanced nutrition.”
Jiang Bin thought to herself that her cousin was truly a good man. Whoever married him would be lucky.
"Uncle Lu mentioned on the phone today that Mom found a blind date for you. You didn't go?"
Mu Lingshu was Mu Yun’s aunt. He was twenty-eight this year. Marriageable age.
Mu Yun felt a wave of helplessness. If only his aunt had given even a fraction of that concern to her own daughter, their relationship might not be so strained.
“The hospital is expanding. I don’t have time.”
Jiang Bin popped a slice of tuna into her mouth.
“I’m this busy and still found time to get married. Why can’t you?”
“Can you even count that as marriage?” Mu Yun countered flatly.
He knew Tang Zhisong hadn't stayed at the hospital the night before. Unfortunately, Mu Yun wasn’t close enough to Tang Zhishong to demand he treat his cousin better.
“You’re the only one who dares talk to me like this.” Jiang Bin clicked her tongue.
Over the next three days, her phone remained quiet. Tang Zhisong hadn't reacted at all, so Jiang Bin put the matter of the house out of her mind.
* * *
On the evening of August 10th, there was an investment conference hosted by the heir of Tianmao Group. The invitation had arrived days ago. Jiang Bin left work at 5:30 PM and Li Yang arrived at her apartment with a stylist and makeup artist.
"President Jiang, what kind of hairstyle are we doing today?"
Usually, Jiang Bin wore her hair up in a professional bun with a small suit, creating a sharp, capable image. She hadn't always dressed this way, but after returning to China, she was constantly in business settings dealing with corporate tycoons, capital magnates, or "playboy" heirs. Without exception, many were distracted by her beauty. As business deals were delayed and unwanted pursuers multiplied, she had opted for a more subdued presence.
But now that she was married to Tang Zhisong, no "rotten peach blossoms" would come knocking. She could afford to use her appearance strategically.
“Big curls, those 'femme fatale' waves.”
The stylist let out a delighted sound.
“President Jiang, I’ve always said your bone structure is striking. This hairstyle will suit you perfectly.”
The look naturally called for a backless gown. Jiang Bin eventually chose a champagne-colored, form-fitting long gown.
Li Yang eyed her exposed skin with concern.
“Your period isn’t over. The air conditioning will be strong. Should I prepare heat patches?”
Women in business chose presence over comfort.
"No need. With my hair down, it should be fine."
Mu Yun had also received an invitation. Since they lived in the same community, they planned to go together. Jiang Bin gave Uncle Liu the night off and rode in Mu Yun’s car. As always, she took the back seat and closed her eyes to rest while he started the engine.
Upon arrival, Jiang Bin handed her silk scarf to Li Yang and entered the hall with her head held high. Mu Yun frowned at her light attire.
“Drink less tonight.” He murmured beside her. Alcohol could easily trigger her migraines.
Accustomed to his nagging, Jiang Bin gave a noncommittal "Okay."
The conference was held inside a historic building. A classic-style banquet hall filled with prominent guests. Socialites, industry leaders, entertainment stars. Everyone glittered. Everyone scanned the room for opportunity.
The second floor hosted major players, business worth billions casually discussed. Access was selective.
The third floor held private card tables for leisure once deals were settled.
This was Jiang Bin’s first public appearance at such an event since her marriage. Her arrival caused a ripple. Several magazine editors she knew came forward with congratulations.
“When’s the wedding banquet? Don’t forget us.” An invitation to Jiang Bin and Tang Zhisong’s wedding would not be easy to obtain.
"I’ll let you know once the date is set." Jiang Bin smiled.
As they talked, Young Master Zhou of Tianmao Group personally came downstairs to greet her.
"Binbin, you came alone?" He looked behind her, searching for Tang Zhisong.
Jiang Bin caught the implication. She smiled evenly.
"What, is my presence not enough?"
Smart home technology was only one branch of Ningsheng Technology. What truly unsettled competitors was Tang Zhisong’s software and hardware development strength. His chip company supplied major domestic corporations. When international sanctions tightened around China, his channels became a lifeline.
At his level, too many people sought him out. If he could avoid appearing, he did.
Because of the house issue, she hadn't contacted him in days. Truthfully, they never spoke privately unless there was a reason. She didn't know he had an invitation, let alone if he would show up.
"My father sent him an invitation," Young Master Zhou said regretfully. "I thought I’d be able to bask in your light and see him here."
Jiang Bin neither confirmed nor denied. She shifted the topic.
The second floor was reserved for the ultra-wealthy, including heirs, directors, and investors. She spotted Jiang Yao and her older brother Jiang Shaoyu. One visible change after her marriage alliance was the increase in people proactively greeting her. The Zhou heir accompanied her through introductions.
Once the key guests had arrived, conversation turned animated. Jiang Bin was seated beside Jiang Shaoyu.
The most sensational news in Shanghai recently had been her marriage to Tang Zhisong. It could directly impact the future ownership of Jiang Group.
“I met Madam Tang and the second madam recently,” someone remarked.
“They said you two were very close and were actually childhood sweethearts.”
Jiang Bin wouldn't undermine her mother-in-law or aunt, so she simply smiled without speaking.
Beside her, Jiang Shaoyu leaned in.
"By the way, Binbin, why isn't President Tang here today?"
Jiang Bin caught the mocking glint in his eyes and understood perfectly. Everyone here treated her differently because they thought she had Tang Zhisong's backing. Her brother, however, knew their marriage was a mere business deal. He wanted to expose the "plastic" nature of the union so people wouldn't take her too seriously. Previously, Jiang Bin wouldn't even have a seat at this table. Now she sat as Shaoyu's equal, and he felt the threat.
All eyes turned to her.
Jiang Bin remained unfazed.
"Ningsheng’s competitor, WestTech, is launching a new product. He’s been working overtime all weekend. He’s so busy he sometimes doesn't even have time to reply to my messages." It left her room to maneuver.
Jiang Shaoyu smiled but said nothing.
As a waltz began, people drifted to the dance floor. Jiang Bin intended to send Tang Zhisong a message just in case, but she was too busy with the constant stream of socializers.
A young man in a tailored suit approached her, a glass of champagne in his hand.
"Binbin, why did you marry Tang Zhishong so hastily?”
This was the persistent second son of the Shen family, the one who had tried to send her flowers on Valentine's Day.
“It wasn’t hasty at all," she replied. "It was a carefully made decision."
Heartbroken, he held out a hand in invitation.
"Dance one set with me today and I'll give up."
"I can have a drink with you," Jiang Bin toasted him, "but I’ll pass on the dance."
Seeing her about to drink, Mu Yun stepped in.
"Master Shen, if you want to drink, I'll join you. Binbin isn’t feeling well today—”
Before he could finish, a commotion broke out by the second-floor stairs. Several elite gentlemen were descending from the third floor. In the center was a man in a light-colored shirt and trousers. Bathed in the shifting lights of the dance floor, he looked toward them with a poised, aristocratic air. His eyes were warm but deep, showing not a hint of a ripple.
It was Tang Zhisong.
One of his childhood friends was having a birthday and had dragged him out of the office for cards. He had intended to play a few rounds and leave, but upon hearing Jiang Bin was downstairs, he made an appearance.
The host, President Zhou of Tianmao Group, immediately rushed over. "President Tang! What a rare guest!"
Jiang Bin’s gaze met Tang Zhisong’s through the crowd. She looked at his casual attire and sighed in internal defeat. He clearly looked like he was out having fun with friends yet she had just told everyone he was buried in work at the office.
'What rotten luck!' she thought. Publicly executed.
Sure enough, Jiang Yao seized the opportunity to sneer.
"Oh? Is President Tang upstairs playing cards with friends? And here Jiang Bin was saying you were too busy with overtime to accompany her."
If there were a crack in the floor, Jiang Bin would have crawled into it. The atmosphere turned incredibly subtle.
Tang Zhisong almost didn't recognize Jiang Bin at first. Her outfit was different, featuring a slightly deep V-neck showing her ivory curves, a multi-colored diamond necklace and a mermaid silhouette that hugged her tall, slender frame. Her makeup was soft and with those "femme fatale" waves, she looked stunning.
Jiang Yao’s words had made Jiang Bin’s predicament clear to everyone.
Tang Zhisong’s expression didn't change. He greeted President Zhou then walked toward Jiang Bin with his suit jacket draped over his arm. He smiled elegantly at the crowd.
"I am busy," he said mildly. “I was passing by. Came to pick her up.”
As he spoke, he naturally draped his jacket over Jiang Bin’s shoulders. The crisp scent of his cologne, mingled with his body heat, enveloped her. Her expression froze for a second as the chill from the air conditioning faded.
At the same time, the hem of the jacket swept past Mu Yun and Master Shen like a silent wave. Despite his gentle smile and poised actions, he exuded an invisible edge that made people want to back away.
Mu Yun gave Tang Zhisong a long look before turning to pour a drink. Master Shen stared at the jacket on Jiang Bin's shoulders as if it were a thorn in his eye and turned away with a dark face.
Tang Zhisong standing beside her, both stunning and possessing equal auras, made people remark on what a perfect couple they were.
“President Tang is very attentive.” Someone remarked.
But Jiang Yao wouldn't let it go.
"President Tang comes to pick her up without even saying a word?"
Tang Zhisong looked down at Jiang Bin, his gaze helpless yet warm.
"I wanted to give her a surprise."
With one simple sentence, the tension dissolved.
Jiang Bin pulled the jacket tighter and met his gaze.
"So that's why you didn't reply when I messaged you?"
"I was driving and didn't check," Tang Zhisong said apologetically. "It won't happen again."
He played the part perfectly. The act was over. Since he was there to "pick her up", they didn't stay long.
Outside, the building opened onto a plaza. No underground parking. Cars had to pull up front. The night air was heavy with heat. Jiang Bin returned the jacket to Tang Zhisong and their expressions returned to normal.
After the near-miss with her reputation, Tang Zhisong spoke in a low voice.
"I'm usually at the company. But from now on, if I need to go somewhere, I'll let you know."
He wanted to prevent another situation where she didn't know his whereabouts. The wording carried a faint domestic implication and Jiang Bin wondered if this was a signal he was sending.
"Alright. I’ll send you my weekly schedule as well." She said as she smoothed her hair.
Tang Zhisong nodded. As they stood by the streetlight waiting for his driver, the crowd flowed past like a tide. Jiang Bin stood two steps behind him. She had come with Mu Yun. Her driver wasn't there, and she wasn't sure how she was getting home.
Translator's Notes:
- "Femme Fatale" Waves (渣女大波浪): Literally "Scum Girl Big Waves." In C-novel slang, this refers to a specific type of glamorous, wavy hairstyle associated with a woman who is confident, beautiful, and perhaps a bit "dangerous" or heart-breaking.
- "Publicly Executed" (公开处刑): A common slang term for being extremely embarrassed in front of a crowd, usually because a lie or a secret has been exposed.
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