"Of course, my acting skills are top-notch."

Fu Zhouye’s embrace was warm and steady. His voice was filled with tenderness and concern. He whispered softly to Shu Nian in his arms, “Stay still, I’ll personally check on you in the room.” This was an unspoken declaration to Ding Zhiyu, a clear sign of his protection and affection for Shu Nian.

Carefully, Fu Zhouye supported Shu Nian, and together they entered the room. Ding Zhiyu’s heart ached sharply; she clenched her fingers tightly. How could she continue to enjoy this life of wealth and luxury under such circumstances? Aunt had said that only by marrying Fu Zhouye could she regain the respect she had in childhood—where everyone revered her, unlike now, when only Fu Zhouye’s wife commanded respect, and she was treated like an outsider.

It wasn’t just because of Fu Zhouye’s love for Shu Nian—it was the bitter realization that she had lost in this emotional battle. Watching the pair’s backs as they entered the room, she felt deeply humiliated, as if force-fed bitter dog food, impossible to swallow.

At the same time, Fu Yuzhou stood nearby, witnessing the whole scene. Watching the intimate gestures between his second brother and sister-in-law, he couldn’t help but sigh, thinking, “Truly, this is the honeymoon phase.” His sigh held both blessings for his brother’s happiness and sympathy for Ding Zhiyu. He knew well that within the powerful Fu family, emotional entanglements were far more complex than outsiders could see. What had just unfolded was merely the tip of the iceberg.

He also understood the depth of Ding Zhiyu’s feelings for his second brother. Shaking his head, Fu Yuzhou turned and left the scene. He preferred to remain an observer, keeping a safe distance to avoid unnecessary trouble. Still, he genuinely wished to have a good conversation with that sister-in-law.

Once inside the room, Fu Zhouye released Shu Nian. The tenderness in his eyes vanished instantly, replaced by a mocking tone as he praised Shu Nian’s earlier pitiable performance, “Not bad acting.” Shu Nian, pleased with herself, responded, “Of course, my acting skills are top-notch.”

Fu Zhouye nearly laughed with disbelief. He never expected her to be so self-satisfied. This woman always surprised him. He had thought, in line with his usual temperament, he would slap Ding Zhiyu, but he never imagined…

Shu Nian was never one to swallow her pride quietly. Since childhood, she had never tolerated being wronged—always repaying grievances and voicing complaints. Naturally, not many dared to be reckless before her when she was young. If anyone had been insolent, she would have slapped them without hesitation. But things were different now; her experiences had tempered her temperament, making her calmer than in her youth.

Fu Zhouye sneered, “If your acting is so good, Father wants you to go talk to him personally—have a heart-to-heart.”

“Mr. Fu, don’t joke with me. This joke isn’t funny, haha,” Shu Nian replied.

“Madam, do I look like the kind of idler who jokes around?” Fu Zhouye retorted.

Hearing such dreadful news felt like a bolt from the blue—damn it. She wished she hadn’t been so stubborn or boasted so much earlier. Seeing Shu Nian dazed, Fu Zhouye taunted, “Someone will come to take you; don’t worry—it’s just a heart-to-heart talk.”

Just then, there was a knock on the door. Fu Zhouye’s expression was one of amusement, “Go quickly.” Shu Nian hurriedly tidied her clothes and followed the person to Fu Old Master’s study, her heart filled with confusion. She didn’t understand why Fu Old Master had suddenly summoned her.

Fu Old Master sat behind the spacious desk, his sharp eyes appraising Shu Nian. He remembered her noble demeanor at the banquet yesterday. Though her origins were not as illustrious as his family’s, her composure and grace were undeniable.

He thought to himself: Perhaps it’s unnecessary to suppress this young woman too harshly. A subtle warning would suffice to ensure she follows orders quietly—so she can covertly provide Fu Zhouye with business intelligence.

Clearing his throat, Fu Old Master began his plan. “Shu Nian, I heard your family’s financial chain once broke.”

Shu Nian eyed him warily. “Master Fu, you worry too much. Our family’s finances have long since been restored. There’s no need for concern.”

Fu Old Master smiled faintly. “Miss Shu, as my son’s lawful fiancée, you must have heard the rumors about him.”

“You should understand that the Shu family’s financial chain could be vulnerable to various ‘accidents.’”

A heavy weight settled in Shu Nian’s heart. As expected of Fu Old Master—his tactics were cunning. First a slap, then a carrot.

Clearing his throat again, Fu Old Master said, “Shu Nian, I understand you’ve recently faced some business difficulties. I hope you can do me a favor.”

“What do you need me to do?” Shu Nian asked cautiously.

Damn it—Fu Old Master and Fu Zhouye have always been at odds. Surely he wouldn’t want me to poison Fu Zhouye on his behalf! If I refuse outright, Fu Old Master might ruin me on the spot; if I agree… what would Fu Zhouye do to me? She was caught in a dilemma.

Calm down. First, see what’s really going on.

Fu Old Master smiled slightly, knowing he had found Shu Nian’s weakness. “I need you to gather some information about Zhouye. It will benefit both him and you. After all, a father’s basic concern for his son must exist.”

“Master Fu, I understand your meaning,” Shu Nian said, striving to keep her voice steady. “But I must know what kind of information you expect me to collect. I have my limits—I will not do anything illegal.”

Here it comes. What to do? Agree and betray Fu Zhouye, or refuse and face consequences?

Though outwardly calm, Shu Nian’s heart raced wildly.

A spark of admiration flickered in Fu Old Master’s eyes. He respected her honesty and courage. Besides, such poise and grace were rare and cultivated. He knew that winning over such a smart and principled young woman would be a valuable asset.

“Rest assured, I will never ask you to do anything unlawful,” Fu Old Master assured her. “I only need you to watch Zhouye’s movements closely. Just pass the information to me; I will handle the rest.”

Shu Nian pondered for a moment. She realized that gaining Fu Old Master’s trust could allow her to later tell Fu Zhouye about today’s events. Wouldn’t that put him in her debt? It would grant her another layer of protection. When the family’s power shifts and Fu Zhouye becomes the undisputed leader, the old master will be nothing more than an ant.

“I understand, Master Fu,” Shu Nian finally nodded. “I will do my best.”

Fu Old Master nodded with satisfaction, knowing she had made her choice. He took a business card from the drawer and handed it to her. “This is my private contact. If you have any important information, you can reach me directly.”

Shu Nian took the card carefully, tucked it away politely, then excused herself.

Leaving Fu Old Master’s study, her emotions were tangled. She couldn’t explain why she had felt such tenderness for Fu Zhouye lately, despite his slightly mocking tone.