When the boss brought Su Chenbi from another brothel to Yanhua Zui, it indeed boosted business. Initially, Ning Zhi thought this was purely for profit, but he later reconsidered. Although the boss never revealed much, Ning Zhi, familiar with his changes over the years, sensed this was more than just profit-driven.
Furthermore, Su Chenbi was a troublemaker who could attract important figures, putting the owner at risk. Whenever Chenbi received guests, the owner would order strong-scented incense to be lit in his room.
She was not acting to satisfy the women, but to inflict more pain on Su Chenbi for his uncontrollable desires and oppression by those women. The owner’s deep eyes seemed to grasp everything, making her feelings towards Su Chenbi appear contradictory.
Now, she was about to get married. Why suddenly send someone to redeem Su Chenbi? Was she wanting to continue tormenting him or thinking of keeping him hidden away?
#
The winter wind howled through the bare trees, bone-chillingly cold.
Inside, the charcoal stove crackled softly. Su Jin held the child, soothing him, while Ke He sat beside her husband, accompanying the father and son.
A knock interrupted them. Su Jin looked out and signaled his wife to open the door.
Ke He walked outside, where a voice called, “Owner, why have you come?”
Su Jin, puzzled, recalled that his husband had mentioned the owner. In Shi Li Town, everyone knew the master of the Jin family.
When Yu saw Su Jin holding the child, even her calm demeanor slightly faltered. This visit was only to confirm what her informants had said.
#
The days before New Year’s Eve were drawing closer.
Yanhua Zui’s business was exceptionally good, with lewd sounds everywhere. Clients sought to enjoy their last sensual pleasures of the year before returning home for the holiday. In a few days, business would reach its annual low point, with almost no customers during the New Year, allowing them to close and rest.
The bride and groom couldn’t meet before the wedding, but Jin Yu visited Xu Yi several times. The betrothal gifts had been given, and the wedding invitations sent. Xu Yi was happy but somewhat uneasy, feeling truly at ease only once married.
Every time Jin Yu came, Xu Yi would grasp her clothing and nestle in her embrace, fearing she might change her mind and disappear.
