Chapter 15: Xia Weiwei's Scheme
Xia Yangyang sensed something was amiss in Xia Weiwei's overly respectful demeanor. She suspected a plot. Xia Weiwei's request to stay for a few days seemed suspiciously targeted at Gu Qichen. Xia Yangyang was about to refuse when Xia Weiwei, adopting a coquettish tone, addressed Gu Qichen (who was driving), "Brother-in-law, you wouldn't disagree, right? I won't interfere with your and my sister's lovey-dovey time. Be a good brother-in-law and let me stay for a bit."
Xia Yangyang admired—or rather, was appalled by—Xia Weiwei's audacity. She expected Gu Qichen to refuse, but he surprised them both: "No problem. There are plenty of vacant rooms in Maple Villa. Feel free to pick a spare room."
Xia Weiwei's delight was palpable. She hadn't expected his agreement, believing him to dislike her. Xia Yangyang, however, raised an eyebrow, sensing Xia Weiwei was closer to her goal. Living under the same roof would provide ample opportunities.
Xia Weiwei's excitement contrasted sharply with Xia Yangyang's gloom. She wondered if Gu Qichen's acquiescence stemmed from guilt over a past event.
Back at the house, Xia Weiwei chose a room near the master bedroom. Xia Yangyang, preparing to return to her own room, saw Gu Qichen locking the master bedroom. "What are you doing?" she asked.
"We're going to stay at Gu Garden for a few days," he replied.
Xia Yangyang realized Gu Qichen had seen through Xia Weiwei's plan all along; his agreement was a strategic maneuver, as he didn't intend to stay at Maple Villa. Xia Weiwei's scheme had backfired. Xia Yangyang found a strange sense of mischievous pleasure in their silent departure.
Meanwhile, Xia Weiwei daydreamed about intimacy with Gu Qichen. Gu Garden, though not crowded, was always brightly lit—a quirk due to Gu Mingzhu's dislike of darkness.
At dinner, Gu Shengyuan was pleased to hear Gu Qichen and Xia Yangyang would stay at the old house for a few days. Gu Mingzhu suggested they move back permanently. Gu Qichen declined, citing the distance to his company and Xia Yangyang's school, although he promised frequent visits. Gu Shengyuan complained about the short commute, viewing Gu Qichen as too carefree and insufficiently family-oriented. Gu Mingzhu countered that newlyweds crave their own space, and this arrangement would increase the chances of a grandchild soon.
Gu Shengyuan's face lit up at the prospect of a grandchild. He urged Xia Yangyang to eat more, concerned about her slight build. Xia Yangyang, only twenty, inwardly protested the implied pressure to have a baby.
"I'm full," Gu Zhaohan announced, putting down his chopsticks and leaving the dining room without another word. Gu Mingzhu frowned, noting his meager portion.