Chapter 295: The Queen Bows Down

Shen Manbing stared at Shen Shichuan in disbelief. “So you just wanted to use me?”

The titles—daughter-in-law of the Gu family, young mistress of the Shengyuan Group—were alluring. Becoming Gu family's daughter-in-law would undeniably benefit his career. In the past, Shen Manbing wouldn't have doubted her brother, but Shen Shichuan's recent actions were beyond comprehension. A wave of disillusionment washed over her. Looking at the man who once professed undying love, she felt like she'd never truly known him.

Gu Qichen spoke, "Manbing, everyone can misunderstand or blame him, but you can't. He was trying to protect you."

"Protect me?" she questioned.

"Only the Gu family can pressure the Shen family," Gu Qichen explained. "If you become their daughter-in-law, no one will dare bully you again. That's what Shichuan was thinking."

A torrent of emotions—shock, guilt, sorrow, heartbreak—overwhelmed Shen Manbing. These intense feelings bound her tightly. She stared at Shen Shichuan, speechless.

A hint of pain flickered in Shen Shichuan's eyes. "I'm sorry, Xiao Bing. I failed to protect you; how could I expect others to?"

"That's not it, brother," Shen Manbing murmured. People called her domineering and willful, but she knew right from wrong. Her brother was wrong, and she acknowledged it. Yet, he'd done it all for her.

Turning, Shen Manbing deeply bowed to Xia Yangyang. "I know my brother wronged you, but he did it because of me. I don't dare ask for your forgiveness, but I will accept all consequences. Tomorrow, I will announce my retirement from the entertainment industry as compensation."

Shen Shichuan, shocked, reached for her. "Now that the truth is out, I will take responsibility for my actions."

Xia Yangyang was equally astonished. How could the proud Shen Manbing humble herself like this?

Shen Shichuan addressed Xia Yangyang, "You should know I acted behind Manbing's back. Otherwise, she would never have cooperated to catch me. This isn't her fault, so please don't take your anger out on her. I'll clarify everything at a press conference tomorrow and accept full legal responsibility."

Shen Manbing stopped him. "No, a press conference will ruin us."

Shen Shichuan turned to Gu Qichen. "Ah Chen, I know you believe in retribution. I lied to and betrayed you. But for the sake of our friendship, don't involve Manbing."

Gu Qichen glanced at Xia Yangyang. "You hurt my wife, not me. I'm a bystander. Yangyang will decide the outcome. If she wants you imprisoned, I'll hire the best lawyer for her."

Shen Manbing clasped Xia Yangyang's hand, almost begging. "Please don't. Whatever my brother did, I'll bear it. I'll leave the entertainment industry and stay away from you. Please don't ruin him."

"My reputation was damaged; I was almost labeled a murderer. If I forgive you easily, won't I seem weak?" Xia Yangyang retorted.

Despair clouded Shen Manbing's eyes.

Xia Yangyang continued, "However, I might drop the matter. Three conditions."

A flicker of hope ignited in Shen Manbing's eyes. "Say them. I'll agree, no matter what."