Rebirth: Splendid Marriage in the 80s Chapter 2249 - 2185: Someone Pulling Strings Behind the Scenes

One person, a man named Ding Haijing, had yet to make an appearance.

A spread of various dishes had been prepared by Chiang Xiao. Although her culinary talents weren't extraordinary, she had secretly added a small amount of Spiritual Spring Water to the reservoir. Even though it was heavily diluted, it didn't grant any miraculous powers, but it did make the greens incredibly fresh and the meat exceptionally tender, fragrant, and savory.

The steamed rice was particularly fragrant, boasting a perfect texture that was neither too soft nor too firm.

As a result, the guests focused entirely on their plates, eating in a focused silence with no time for small talk.

Once the meal concluded, Chiang Xiao began discussing their compensation.

The arrangement included four days of rest per month, though she requested that they coordinate their schedules so they wouldn't all be absent at the same time.

A ten-day break would also be provided during the New Year festivities.

Furthermore, she clarified that Old He and Old Lee, who were slated to work at the teahouse, would receive a lower wage compared to those serving as her personal bodyguards. Chiang Xiao spoke plainly, informing them that remaining by her side involved a significant level of danger.

Old He and Old Lee nodded, showing they understood the situation.

To them, the teahouse offered a more stable and peaceful environment. They hoped to eventually bring their wives and children to join them, as that was the kind of life they truly wanted.

At the same time, Niu Dazhi, the proprietor of Niu’s Pastry Shop, arrived at the Gao residence alongside his wife, Gao Yan, carrying several gifts.

Inside, Gao Ming was in the middle of scolding Gao Wei.

His mood soured further upon seeing the visitors, and he fell silent with a dark expression.

Gao Wei sat nearby, releasing his frustration by slamming Gao Ming’s prized collectible walnuts against the sofa’s armrest.

Sensing the thick tension in the room, Niu Dazhi considered retreating, but Gao Yan quickly gripped his arm to stop him.

"Brother Gao Ming, it's me, Gao Yan. I called the house earlier."

She shared the Gao surname, but the familial link was quite thin; only their grandfathers’ generation had shared a close bond.

Regardless of the distance, they were still kin of a sort.

She had intended to visit much sooner, but the Gao Family was difficult to approach, causing her to delay the meeting until now.

"Have a seat."

Gao Ming shot a look at his son, his heart still full of irritation.

The boy was a constant source of frustration, seemingly inheriting none of his father's wits.

He was capable in other areas, but his obsession with that girl from the Du family was driving Gao Ming to his wit's end.

If Du Jinruo actually wanted to be with him, it would have happened years ago; why would they have spent so much time playing games?

Even Fang Jianye of the Fang Family hadn't been able to win her heart.

While the Du Family didn't have foundations as deep as the Gao Family, they were still powerful. There was no reason to cause a rift over a girl, so he had frequently told Gao Wei to move on and find a proper girl to marry. Yet, Gao Wei remained stubbornly defiant.

It was truly infuriating.

As for distant relatives like Gao Yan who only showed up to leverage a small connection, Gao Ming found them tiresome, but a family of their status couldn't simply shut everyone out.

They prioritized clan unity, knowing that such connections might prove useful in the future.

Gao Yan pulled Niu Dazhi down into a seat, both of them feeling quite on edge.

"This must be Gao Wei, right? I've heard he's studying at the Supervisor Guard Academy. He’s truly a chip off the old block." Gao Yan looked toward the young man, desperately searching for a topic of conversation.

Gao Wei looked at them with annoyance and snapped, "If you want something, just say it. Skip the flattery. I’ve heard that specific line thousands of times since childhood. Don’t you get bored saying it? Because I’m certainly sick of hearing it."

"Gao Wei!"

Gao’s Father glared at him, his voice stern. "If you can't behave, then get to your room!"

Gao Wei stood up abruptly. "I’m going out for some air."

He didn't even acknowledge Gao Yan or Niu Dazhi as he walked away to change his clothes.