Rebirth: Splendid Marriage in the 80s Chapter 2395 - 2331: Your Lousy Painting

She had indeed launched a comprehensive probe into her past.

Without a doubt, he had unearthed every aspect of her life, from her very birth right up to the present moment, with painstaking precision.

Chiang Xiao sensed a wave of unease, pondering just how many factions might have been scrutinizing her. At first, she believed herself to be nothing more than an average individual unworthy of such attention, yet it now appeared that numerous eyes were covertly fixed upon her.

This individual might have first crossed paths with her due to Tyrant Meng, but evidently, his focus had shifted squarely onto her.

She sensed that his fascination with her surpassed any interest he held in Tyrant Meng.

For Tyrant Meng, his aim seemed geared toward total removal, whereas with her, it revolved around probing, showing no signs of lethal intent thus far.

Yet, who could predict the consequences if he truly uncovered something significant?

Hu Xiangyong continued to observe Chiang Xiao closely.

Up to this point, nothing in her demeanor raised alarms; all her responses appeared perfectly logical.

In particular, upon learning of his approach linked to "Welcoming Pine," a flicker of astonishment mixed with subtle self-satisfaction lit up her gaze.

It resembled the satisfaction of an artist whose cherished creation finally gained the acclaim it deserved.

This reaction felt entirely expected.

A momentary hesitation gripped his thoughts.

Was it possible that this young woman truly harbored no secrets?

Still, his instincts insisted on the contrary.

Unless, of course, she excelled at deception and feigning innocence.

Should that prove true, he found himself eager to indulge the game, curious to discover how long her facade might endure.

"I think so too, hehe." Chiang Xiao placed a hand over her mouth, chuckling as she addressed Liu Guoying: "Uncle Lee mentioned the same to me, claiming that my artwork brought them good luck."

Her words barely landed before Liu Guoying's expression soured, and he snapped at her: "What nonsense! Who do you imagine yourself to be? Could your foolish sketch possibly deliver prosperity? Where's your common sense? If word of this gets out, do you believe it'll end well? Every merchant would flock to you demanding a piece, and can you promise each one will strike it rich? If not, won't you invite a heap of ill will?"

He offered Chiang Xiao no quarter, sternly rebuking her until she hung her head in quiet submission.

Seeing her in such a state stirred a touch of pity in even Ji Yuzhi, who couldn't bear to watch.

After all, Chiang Xiao stood as a renowned artist; did she truly deserve such harsh words from her own mentor?

She interjected swiftly, "Teacher Liu, perhaps Chiang Xiao simply felt joy for Uncle Lee, and moreover..."

"What joy is there for her to feel?" Liu Guoying pressed on with his lecture: "That fellow poured his sweat, resources, and ingenuity into building his enterprise. And here she is, claiming the glory for herself—what audacity!"

"Teacher, I understand my mistake, okay," Chiang Xiao murmured dejectedly.

"Enough, Teacher Liu, Chiang Xiao merely let the words slip out, and regardless, her talent with the brush remains beyond question." The principal hurried to smooth things over.

This blunt demeanor simply reflected Liu Guoying's fiery nature.

In truth, when others were present, he showed scant regard for Chiang Xiao's dignity.

He shifted uncomfortably.

Hu Xiangyong stayed quiet, his face impassive, merely observing the exchange between Liu Guoying and Chiang Xiao.

Chiang Xiao took the initiative to speak to him: "Mr. Hu, should you wish for me to create a painting, that's within my ability, though I cannot promise it will boost your business simply by displaying it."

"Naturally," Hu Xiangyong responded, "No one expects Xiao Chiang to produce some enchanted masterpiece. That said..."

He halted briefly, offering Chiang Xiao a warm smile.