Chapter 15: Steal a Kiss
Xia Weiwei's initial probing was to gauge Gu Qichen's awareness of Xia Yangyang and Lu Haotian's relationship. She didn't anticipate his fierce protectiveness of Xia Yangyang, fearing the Gu family's disapproval. Xia Yangyang, well aware of Xia Weiwei's penchant for causing trouble, was unsurprised. Fortunately, Gu Qichen saw through Xia Weiwei's machinations completely, rendering her attempts at manipulation humiliating.
During dinner, Gu Qichen's gentlemanly treatment of Xia Yangyang, including peeling shrimp for her, astonished the Gu family, who were unaccustomed to such tenderness from him. Gu Shengyuan, however, was pleased. His son was unmarried and had been without a partner for years; rumors of his disinterest in women, even suggestions of homosexuality, had worried him, prompting matchmaking attempts. Gu Shengyuan saw Gu Qichen's affection as a step toward his wish for grandchildren.
Xia Weiwei, consumed by jealousy, ignored Liu Ruyan's advice to behave and avoid confrontation. Unable to control herself, she saw Gu Qichen serve Xia Yangyang beef brisket, prompting her to feign innocence and request some for herself: "Brother-in-law, I love brisket too! I can't reach it." The dish was indeed far from her.
Her request, however, was thinly veiled. While appearing innocent, Xia Yangyang recognized her deliberate attempt to flirt with Gu Qichen. Xia Yangyang offered her own brisket, but Xia Weiwei refused, insisting on Gu Qichen serving her another piece, pretending to be a glutton. Her true aim was to test Gu Qichen, believing that even with a partner, all men were susceptible to advances, especially from an attractive young woman. She felt she understood men better than the "wooden" Xia Yangyang.
With anticipation, she watched Gu Qichen. Gu Shengyuan chuckled, "The second miss is lively! Ah Chen, give her a piece."
Gu Qichen, however, subtly asked Ah Xiu, a serving maid, if more brisket remained. Upon learning there was plenty, he instructed Ah Xiu to serve the entire pot to Xia Weiwei, placing it next to her.
Humiliated, Xia Weiwei stared at the overflowing pot. Gu Qichen's response was unexpectedly ruthless.
Xia Yangyang, noticing Xia Weiwei's stunned expression, smiled. Gu Qichen, she observed, was indeed merciless. She then called him over, feigning concern: "You have some sauce on your face. Let me help." As he leaned in, she quickly stole a kiss on his cheek. The others missed it, but Gu Zhaohan saw clearly.