บท 3: Miss XIU MEI (edited)

In the past, Feng Dingxiong had helped her twice, earning her deep respect. She could never dare to be disrespectful to him.

As he studied her, he felt a mix of emotions. The bright, carefree girl he had met seven years ago was gone. Now, she stood before him—a young woman with an expression that concealed everything.

Once a cute 16-year-old in a pink dress and ponytail, she now exuded a quiet strength, but her eyes betrayed an emptiness that hinted at buried sadness. Was she still haunted by her past?

He sighed, realizing that time had transformed her into a beautiful and talented woman. He hadn't expected to meet her again, but he admired her intelligence and ambition. She had the potential to rule the world.

Yet, their second meeting had been under dreadful circumstances they both chose not to mention.

Feng Junjie, Feng Dingxiong's son, cleared his throat loudly to regain everyone's attention.

Feng Dingxiong shifted his gaze back to her. "So, we meet again, Miss Xiu Mei. I'm glad to see you."

"I told you we would meet again. I just wished it were under different circumstances," Xiu Mei said, her voice low.

Feng Dingxiong nodded, feeling a pang of sadness.

'What favors are they talking about? Did Dad help her? How can she return the favor?' Junjie's mind raced with questions. He had no courage to interrupt, remembering how his father had ordered him to be at the Feng Manor by 8:00 a.m. sharp without explanation.

If only his older brother had been there to ask the questions.

Xiu Mei glanced at the other two men. "Who are these gentlemen?"

"Junjie, this is Xiu Mei," Feng Dingxiong introduced them.

'That's it? I deserve better than this!' Junjie felt disappointed, almost on the verge of tears, but he held his tongue.

"Let's sit and talk," Xiu Mei suggested, leading them to a special round igloo patio in the back garden. The titanium-framed structure was both stylish and functional, providing a perfect setting to enjoy nature while remaining comfortable.

Butler Tom brought tea and snacks.

"I'll serve the tea, Uncle Tom. Please make sure we aren't disturbed," Xiu Mei said, pouring the tea. "So, what brought you here, Mr. Feng? I thought we covered everything on the phone three days ago."

Feng Junjie frowned, looking toward his father.

THREE DAYS EARLIER

At 11:15 p.m., Xiu Mei settled under her blanket when her phone rang.

"Feng Dingxiong's private number?" she frowned. She remembered giving him her number after owing him two favors.

"Hello, Mr. Feng…" she answered.

Silence.

"Do you know it's me?" he asked, surprised she recognized his voice.

"I have my ways," she replied.

"Are you still wanting to repay the favor you owe me?" he asked.

Xiu Mei's eyes lit up. "Yes! What can I do?"

"It's about my elder son, Feng Jianyu. He's recovering from an injury, and I want you to keep him in your villa until he's fully recovered."

There was a pause on the line.

"OK… No problem. You can shift your son to my villa," she said.

"Really? You don't want to ask why?"

"No,"

"Are you sure?" he pressed, not wanting her to regret her decision.

"Absolutely. Since it's just my villa you want, take it for as long as you need. I'll find somewhere else to stay in the meantime."

Feng Dingxiong was taken aback. Did she misunderstand? He rubbed his temples, realizing she had interpreted his request differently. Was she really that smart?

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