A Best Friend Laden with Heinous Crimes

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In her previous life, Qiao Jiaoyun was her closest friend. In that past life, she had been cold and somewhat poor at social interaction, giving off an aloofness that kept others at a distance. Yet, those who got close to her found she had a slightly humorous side. Qiao Jiaoyun was the intelligent sidekick to the venomous second female lead, not only devising plans for her but also taking the blame for her mistakes.

She never quite understood why someone as clever as Qiao Jiaoyun stayed by her side, doing her bidding. When they once kidnapped Lin Rui, only to be caught by Yun Yang and threatened in a basement, Qiao Jiaoyun simply said to her, “It’s a pity your wish wasn’t fulfilled.” Shortly after, she tragically died by smashing her head against the basement wall—a sorrowful end for the eldest daughter of a scholarly family.

Shu Nian sighed as she called Qiao Jiaoyun. Within twenty minutes, Qiao Jiaoyun arrived in a dazzling blue supercar that shimmered under the sunlight like rolling waves in the deep sea. She wore a long dress in matching hues, the hem swaying gently like a graceful mermaid. Her youthful face held a faint smile, but her eyes revealed sharp intelligence and unwavering resolve. The dress, typically a choice for gentleness, was worn with a rebellious flair—just as she remembered.

“Anian!” Qiao Jiaoyun greeted warmly, surprise lighting her eyes. “Why did you call me?”

“Oh, Anian, how’s life abroad? I heard the scenery is beautiful. Did you take any photos?” Shu Nian replied.

“Yes, the views are indeed stunning. But I have news that might shock you.”

Curious, Qiao Jiaoyun pressed, “What is it? Have you found a new boyfriend? A handsome one, no doubt, since you suddenly stopped liking Yun Yang after being so devoted to him.”

“It’s not quite that,” Shu Nian said hesitantly. “I... I entered into a contract marriage abroad.” She quickly added, “It’s just a contract marriage—nothing more.”

Qiao Jiaoyun’s eyes widened in shock. “A contract marriage?! When did this happen? Why didn’t you tell me?”

Her brow furrowed. “That doesn’t sound like you, Anian. Are you sure? This is a serious, lifelong matter.”

Shu Nian nodded, a slight smile gracing her lips as she affirmed, “I know it sounds impulsive, but I’m certain. Though we haven’t known each other long, I feel she’s the right one. We share many values and goals.”

She wasn’t sure if this ‘boss’ truly had the right values or goals, but Shu Nian knew one thing for sure—he would provide for her. She dared not say this aloud to Qiao Jiaoyun, not wanting to worry her.

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Qiao Jiaoyun’s concern lingered. “What about your family? Do they know? How did they react?”

Shu Nian replied calmly, “At first, my family was shocked, but they know me well and trust I wouldn’t make such a decision lightly.”

Qiao Jiaoyun seemed relieved. “That’s good. If a man could make you care so deeply, he must be outstanding. Will I get to meet him sometime?”

“Of course! My new husband must meet my best friend!” Shu Nian answered without hesitation.

With lunch approaching, the two went to the most famous restaurant in City A—Qiao Nan Restaurant—known for its exquisite dishes and bustling atmosphere. The restaurant had no private rooms, marking a distinctive path among the many hotels in City A.

As they settled, they noticed Yun Yang and Lin Rui not far away. Yun Yang had deliberately chosen the restaurant, secretly hoping to “accidentally” encounter Shu Nian. Having heard she returned to the country without seeing him, he was certain she must be hiding somewhere, secretly crying.

He remembered how they used to frequent this place together, especially enjoying the little lobsters, his favorite.

Shu Nian and Qiao Jiaoyun exchanged glances, both feeling disdain for the former couple’s behavior.

Qiao Jiaoyun whispered to Shu Nian, “Hey, are you really over him? I hesitated to tell you before, but that man is a bit arrogant.” She emphasized ‘arrogant’ with a hint of indignation for her friend.

Shu Nian smiled lightly. “It’s fine. Consider it an emotional lesson. Now, I’m living smoothly, aren’t I?”

They chose to ignore Yun Yang and Lin Rui, focusing on their meal.

However, Yun Yang noticed their indifference and, wearing a confident smile, approached Shu Nian and Qiao Jiaoyun.

“Nian’er, what a coincidence to see you here,” he feigned surprise, appraising Shu Nian in her light purple gown, which only enhanced her beauty.

Shu Nian cast him a cold glance without responding.

Qiao Jiaoyun cut him off sharply, “Sorry, you’re not welcome here.” Regardless of her refined background, if anyone wronged her best friend, she would confront them.

Yun Yang’s face stiffened but quickly resumed its arrogant expression. “Jiaoyun, why such hostility? How can a lady from a scholarly family be so rude? We’re old friends. No need for such coldness.”

He believed that Shu Nian’s presence had emboldened Qiao Jiaoyun to speak this way—a side of her that, though usually domineering and proud, was fundamentally kind-hearted.

Yun Yang thought Shu Nian must be deeply in love with him, to the point of using such tactics to gain his attention.

Qiao Jiaoyun sneered, “Old friends? Do you deserve that title? Cheaters and homewreckers, please leave and don’t disturb our dinner.”

She glanced disdainfully at Lin Rui, who was mimicking Shu Nian’s mannerisms—nothing more than a substitute.

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Lin Rui, standing nearby, looked at the two with envy burning in her eyes. Why? Because they were more beautiful, came from better families, had everything she did not.

She approached, her eyes shimmering with tears, her voice trembling. “Jiaoyun, I know you misunderstand me. But Yun Yang and I were just friends at first. Later, it was... it was uncontrollable. I truly fell for Yun Yang at first sight.”

She ended with quiet sobs.

Yun Yang’s heart softened at the sight of Lin Rui’s wounded expression. A surge of protectiveness welled up within him.

He stepped beside her and whispered comfortingly, “Ruirui, don’t be upset. I know you didn’t mean any harm. Those people don’t understand you; their words aren’t worth your attention.”

“Shu Nian is fickle and untrustworthy,” he thought. “Lin Rui is the one truly deserving of my care.”

Besides, Lin Rui provided emotional support and had ambition without vanity. Mu Ruo, in contrast, was clueless, unmotivated, vain, and only wore a cold, proud expression.

Yun Yang felt empty inside and quickly embraced Lin Rui. “Alright, don’t be angry. Let’s eat.”

Lin Rui believed that by taking from Shu Nian, she could rise above others. Her mother had once been a maid in Shu Nian’s household, a source of ridicule. Deep down, she was secretly delighted but put on an innocent, pitiful act in public. Her eyes always glistened with tears, as if she might cry at any moment.

Shu Nian had seen this act countless times in her past life and knew the true nature of those tears—they were merely tools to elicit sympathy.

Qiao Jiaoyun waved her hand impatiently, “Misunderstanding? Your so-called ‘misunderstanding’ is stealing from others and then playing the victim? I advise you to stop—it won’t work on us.”

Shu Nian stood, taking Qiao Jiaoyun’s hand. “Let’s go. No need to waste time here.”

The two turned and left, leaving Yun Yang and Lin Rui standing awkwardly behind.

Though their dinner had been interrupted, Shu Nian and Qiao Jiaoyun’s friendship and mutual support filled their hearts with warmth.

He had thought Shu Nian still harbored feelings for him, unaware his actions had long since caused her disgust.

As soon as she left, Shu Nian blocked and deleted all contact with the scoundrel—out of sight, out of mind.

She refused to soil her eyes with him any longer!