Rebirth: Splendid Marriage in the 80s Chapter 2292 - 2228: Is This a Threat

Chiang Xiao offered a gentle pat on his back.

Averting his gaze so she wouldn't witness the moisture in his eyes, Meng Xinian turned around and pulled her into a tight embrace, resting his chin upon her shoulder.

“Little, are you able to save him?”

“I can.”

Chiang Xiao gave a direct and unhesitating answer, causing her to feel the sudden release of tension in Meng Xinian’s frame.

“Brother Xinian, you aren't going to let guilt consume you for a long time like this, are you?” She spoke with a hint of playful disdain, “If so, I'm leaving tomorrow.”

Meng Xinian straightened his posture immediately, gripping her shoulders as he stared at her. “Just try leaving.”

“Are you going to break my leg?” Chiang Xiao asked, her eyes widening.

A flicker of amusement danced in Meng Xinian’s eyes.

“How could I ever bear to do that? I’ll simply kiss you until you faint so that you cannot depart.”

He was never truly a man of indecision. He had merely been momentarily paralyzed by the shock of the situation. Now that the worst-case scenario had been avoided and Little had provided him with hope, he had no reason to wallow in guilt or depression.

Chiang Xiao gave him a light punch. “Go get the veggies!”

“Yes, ma’am!”

The two of them carried the vegetables downstairs to cook a meal. Meanwhile, Long Xiaocai had already tracked down Sister-in-law Chen, urging her to gather Chen Yujun and the others to head toward Meng Xinian’s dormitory.

“I’ve heard that the wife of Great Officer Meng has arrived,” Sister-in-law Chen said, feeling a sense of unease. “Little Cai, perhaps we should let this go. I heard Officer Meng’s wife is exceptionally beautiful and even a painter...”

“Does Deputy Director Chen have no desire to climb higher? I was under the impression he’s been stuck in this rank for quite some time,” Long Xiaocai retorted calmly, cutting her off.

Sister-in-law Chen fell silent instantly.

Glancing at her, Long Xiaocai continued, “As I said, even if Meng Xinian is fond of Chiang Xiao, he is still very likely to choose me in the end. Sister-in-law Chen, didn't you promise to do your utmost to assist me?”

“I... I did promise, but our Old Chen...”

Chen Yujun was completely in the dark about the true situation. He genuinely believed his wife was being kind-hearted by trying to find a better match for Meng Xinian.

In fact, he had just given her a harsh scolding, telling her that since Meng Xinian’s wife had appeared, any further interference would provoke Meng Xinian’s wrath—and he wouldn't be able to shield her from the consequences.

Sister-in-law Chen was truly terrified.

Another woman, Zhao Ren’s wife, had previously introduced a girl named Zhai Cuixin as well, but Zhao Ren had reportedly scolded her so severely that Zhai Cuixin had already been sent away.

She had originally intended to tell Long Xiaocai to give up and leave quickly.

However, Long Xiaocai’s next words struck fear into Sister-in-law Chen’s heart.

“That Old Chen in your family—does he wish to take part in that upcoming mission?” Long Xiaocai inquired slowly.

Panicking, Sister-in-law Chen waved her hands frantically. “No, no! Little Cai, please speak with your uncle about this. Our Old Chen is far too old for such dangerous missions. He is the backbone of our two families. We wouldn't be able to survive if anything happened to him.”

“Provided you help me sincerely, Deputy Director Chen’s name will not appear on that mission list.”

“I... I will...” Sister-in-law Chen nodded rapidly while clutching the hem of her shirt.

“Now, let us go find Deputy Director Chen and Vice Commissioner Zhao. Since Chiang Xiao is visiting, they will likely be cooking tonight. You should prepare two dishes as well, and we will bring them over together. We can just say it’s more lively with a crowd and help him celebrate his first time cooking. He couldn't possibly kick us all out, could he?”

“I... I’ll go get ready right now.”