“What? Are your subordinates too capable and causing you trouble?” Shi Zhongcheng approached him. They were similar in height, around 1.78 meters, but his more robust physique gave an unparalleled sense of threat. Compared to Tang Hua’s refined, scholarly appearance, each had their own outstanding qualities. However, Tang Hua was always well-regarded; his elegant exterior gave others the illusion that he was easy to negotiate with and scholarly. In reality, he was not easy to deal with and could be ruthless when necessary. Shi Zhongcheng was relatively more approachable, though his tough exterior kept people at bay.
“Boss, something’s not right with you lately.”
“Oh?” Tang Hua was noncommittal, extinguishing the cigarette butt and lighting another.
“How long has it been since you went home?”
“Which home?”
Shi Zhongcheng spoke directly: “The home where your wife lives, the one in Taichung you’ve described as suitable for recuperation and having a mild climate.”
“Busy. Forgotten how long it’s been.” He murmured softly, not giving Shi Zhongcheng a chance to criticize, and lightly said: “Zhongcheng, you’re right. Always right.”
“What?” It was rare for this arrogant young Tang to drop such a praising remark, and he sounded so sincere that Shi Zhongcheng was shocked.
Tang Hua looked at him, his flat expression revealing minimal emotion:
“More than seven years ago, you warned me not to be captivated by beauty and assume that person was my lifelong partner. I didn’t listen, so I deservedly fell into a cold tomb to gnaw on my own regrets.”
The playful mood instantly vanished, and Shi Zhongcheng’s face turned serious: “What’s happening between you two? I remember telling you at your wedding that a successful marriage requires effort. Your regrets might also be your wife’s regrets. I must say, in recent years, you’ve been completely indifferent to her. This year, when Xue went to elementary school, you even had him board instead of staying in Taichung, and on holidays, you had your secretary bring him to your company and then to your home in Neihu. Your love has faded so quickly and so ruthlessly that it’s frightening. This is your personal matter, and I shouldn’t interfere, but I must say: you’re wrong.”
Tang Hua smiled bitterly, a taste of sorrow spreading through his chest.
