Rebirth: Splendid Marriage in the 80s Chapter 2293 - 2229: What If She Holds a Grudge?

Long Xiaocai threw a glance her way and inquired, "Could you check with Deputy Director Chen to see if he knows Great Officer Meng’s favorite dishes? I am hoping to display my culinary talents."

"Of course, I'll go right now," Sister-in-law Chen replied, making a hasty exit.

Once she had put some distance between them, her steps slowed. She pressed a hand against her chest, her expression a mix of deep regret and lingering dread.

Long Xiaocai had approached her previously to discuss a specific mission. She had suggested that Sister-in-law Chen’s husband, Old Chen, was likely to be assigned to the task force, a revelation that had sent her into an immediate state of panic.

The mission was notoriously perilous and its duration uncertain; the mere thought of Old Chen participating was unbearable to her.

At that time, Long Xiaocai had hinted that by performing a single favor, she could guarantee Old Chen would be left off the mission roster and might even be positioned for a promotion.

In a moment of impulsive desperation, she had agreed to Long Xiaocai’s terms.

Now, however, she felt trapped in a difficult position.

It was common knowledge that Great Officer Meng already had a fiancée, and rumors suggested their bond was incredibly strong.

Furthermore, it was obvious that Great Officer Meng had absolutely no romantic interest in Long Xiaocai.

Old Chen had already given her a severe reprimand. If she continued to stir up trouble, she risked truly infuriating him.

Yet, if she refused to cooperate, what if Long Xiaocai held a grudge? She might actually ensure Old Chen was sent on that dangerous assignment.

Old Chen was no longer in his youth. Compared to the younger officers, the risk of him being injured or killed on such a hazardous mission was significantly higher. How could she possibly let him go?

If something happened to him because of her actions, wouldn't she be the cause of his downfall? Her child would be fatherless, her in-laws would lose their son, and their entire household would crumble.

Weighted down by these thoughts, Sister-in-law Chen felt as though she were standing at the edge of a precipice.

She eventually located Chen Yujun, who was in the company of Zhao Ren, Dai Gang, and another officer named Duan Huaiyang.

Great Officer Meng was originally supposed to be finalizing the training itinerary with them. However, knowing his wife had just arrived and seeing as the meeting was nearly concluded, they had allowed him to leave early since his input had already been recorded.

The sight of so many high-ranking men made Sister-in-law Chen feel a wave of apprehension.

The presence of Zhao Ren was particularly intimidating. After Zhao Ren had scolded his own wife, Sister-in-law Zhao had promptly sent Zhai Cuixin away. In contrast, the "Little Cai" she had introduced was still lingering around.

Because of this comparison, Old Chen would surely feel humiliated and resentful.

However, given Little Cai’s unique background, Old Chen might be displeased, but he would likely refrain from showing it openly.

Steeling her nerves, Sister-in-law Chen forced a smile onto her face and tapped on the door.

Upon seeing her, Chen Yujun’s annoyance was visible. He asked in a sharp, unfriendly tone, "What brings you here?"

Dai Gang’s expression was equally cold when he looked at her.

He had a poor opinion of Sister-in-law Chen.

He believed that being helpful should have limits; if a person's meddling caused significant trouble or inconvenience for others, such "kindness" was better left unoffered.

In his eyes, Sister-in-law Chen was clearly a woman of little sense.

"It's like this—isn't Great Officer Meng’s fiancée visiting? I noticed that no one has been cooking at Great Officer Meng’s quarters, so his fiancée must be preparing a meal today. I realized I might have caused some friction for Great Officer Meng earlier, so I wanted to take this chance to apologize to the both of them."

Hearing her explanation, Chen Yujun’s harsh expression softened slightly.

"It is good that you are thinking that way," he remarked.