Rebirth: Splendid Marriage in the 80s Chapter 2401 - 2337: Dock My Pay

Previously on Rebirth: Splendid Marriage in the 80s...
Chiang Xiao, cautious about potential threats from Second Master and their ties to Li Hanzhong, insists on bringing her teacher Liu Guoying to a familiar hospital for a discreet check-up. Drawing on her connections from past family hospitalizations, including Old Master Jiang and Ah Liu's treatments, she bypasses regular procedures and heads directly to the director's office. The director, recognizing her as Miss Jiang and aware of her influence, warmly welcomes them and shakes hands with the renowned artist Liu Guoying, ready to assist without question.

"The circumstances are like this: an unknown item pricked my teacher's hand, and I believe the individual involved has a rather suspicious background. That's why I didn't dare to treat it casually and escorted my teacher here for a complete check-up. I need to verify precisely what occurred and if it poses any risk to my teacher's well-being. Moreover, this issue requires absolute secrecy."

Chiang Xiao's grave tone made the dean adopt a solemn expression too.

Considering Chiang Xiao's exceptional status, it was conceivable that enemies might aim at her or her associates. Matters like these demanded careful attention.

"Who was responsible?"

"I'll discuss it with Uncle Ding and ask him to dispatch investigators for a deep probe. However, dean, I must impose on you to handle my teacher's case."

"Of course. May I inspect the puncture mark?"

The dean glanced at Liu Guoying's hand.

For an inexplicable reason, Liu Guoying experienced a touch of unease.

It was merely a tiny puncture he could barely discern on his own. Was it worth summoning the dean in person for this?

Wasn't that overdoing it a little?

Yet Chiang Xiao had seized his hand already, lifting it toward the dean and indicating the spot.

After a careful inspection, the dean remarked, "It certainly resembles a needle wound. I'll set things up immediately and ensure Master Liu receives a comprehensive scan."

Chiang Xiao inclined her head, "Very well, many thanks, dean."

The dean stepped out, instructing them to wait a moment.

"Tell me, isn't this blowing things out of proportion?" Liu Guoying shot Chiang Xiao a stern look, "Furthermore, I suspect Hu Xiangyong's ring simply had a rough edge that wasn't smoothed out, leading to the accidental jab. No reason to make such a fuss, is there?"

"Teacher, please heed my advice. You sensed something strange about that fellow too. We mustn't overlook it; getting checked out costs nothing and brings peace of mind."

"You're imposing on people and don't worry about accumulating debts of gratitude?"

"I'm not worried. Why should I be?"

"The esteemed dean juggles countless duties daily, yet you drag him into this minor affair. You truly are..."

Chiang Xiao disregarded Liu Guoying's opinions; the check-up was non-negotiable.

How else could she rest easy?

Ding Haijing burst through the door, somewhat flustered and out of breath, his features etched with concern. "Xiao Chiang, has anything gone wrong with you?"

Chiang Xiao had never witnessed such urgency in him and shook her head in confusion, "I'm okay."

Only then did it dawn on her that, in her haste to whisk her teacher from the hospital before, she forgot to alert him. Clearly, she still wasn't accustomed to a protector's presence.

"Even if all was well, you ought to at least notify me somehow—a quick sign would suffice! Bolting away without a word, what kind of behavior is that?"

Ding Haijing surprisingly raised his voice at her.

Chiang Xiao blinked in surprise.

This was...

Who held the employer's role here?

Why was she enduring such unprofessional treatment as the boss?

"Hey, who might you be? Thinking a booming tone makes you impressive?" Liu Guoying took offense.

Ding Haijing pouted grumpily, "I'm her bodyguard! An abandoned one at that!"

Liu Guoying: "..."

Chiang Xiao: "..."

"Oh, great master!"

What was with that tone of deep injustice and hurt?

Had she done something so unforgivable?

Like ditching someone?

But prior to her response, Ding Haijing abruptly straightened up, then bowed rigidly at the waist in her direction and declared, "Apologies, this lapse is entirely my fault. Protecting you means staying by your side at all times; I shouldn't fault you for skipping the heads-up. Therefore, deduct half a month's pay from me."