Chapter 255: Treating Her Like a Fool

Xia Yangyang wasn't being paranoid. She'd been eavesdropping, and throughout their conversation, Gu Qichen never considered alternative explanations, such as Shen Manbing framing her. He said he would investigate and give Shen Manbing an explanation. Why? She was the victim. The most likely scenario was that Shen Manbing framed her; why explain anything to Shen Manbing?

Gu Qichen claimed to believe her, citing her supposed inability to commit the crime. However, his purchasing the necklace and quietly covering up the incident revealed his suspicions. He suspected her of theft, damaging the Gu family's reputation, and framing Shen Manbing. Otherwise, he would have publicized the investigation results. His hushed, $200 million payoff showed his lack of complete trust.

Should Xia Yangyang be happy or sad about Gu Qichen's reckless expenditure on her behalf? Overwhelmed by sadness, her heart sank. She stood behind the artificial hill for a while before her phone rang—it was Gu Qichen. Hesitant to answer, she wondered whether to confront him. She was afraid.

Previously, Gu Qichen had defended her against Shen Manbing's bullying, appearing chivalrous. But that hadn't signified fundamental trust. Now, she doubted him. If forced to choose between believing her and Shen Manbing, would he choose Shen Manbing without hesitation? She already knew the answer.

She'd overlooked Gu Qichen and Shen Manbing's childhood friendship. Even without romantic feelings, their deep understanding and trust remained. Perhaps Shen Manbing was exploiting this.

As Xia Yangyang hesitated to answer the ringing phone, it suddenly died. A sigh of relief escaped her lips; heaven had made her choice.

By the time she reached the parking lot, Gu Qichen's car was gone. The night was deep, and she'd lost track of time. Wearing a formal dress, she aimlessly wandered the streets, relieved by the late hour and lack of people.

She didn't know how long she'd walked before sitting on a flower bed, lost and unable to express her feelings.

Suddenly, a male voice broke the silence: "Brave girl, wearing such an expensive necklace and daring to walk the streets at midnight?"

Looking up, she saw Shen Shichuan. Startled, she asked, "What are you doing here?"

"Just came out," he replied. "Hard to miss you." She realized she'd unknowingly walked to the foot of the Shichuan International Building.

Managing a smile, she said, "What a coincidence."

"Get in the car," he said gently. "I'll take you home."