Chapter Forty-Seven: A Failed Scheme Backfires

The ancestral residence of the Chen family.

Old Madam Chen sat in the center on the grand master's chair, her face pale and tinged with anger, patiently awaiting the arrival of Chen Jianguo and his family.

On either side of her, aside from the Chen family members, a handful of elderly men with graying hair sat alone at a long table, upon which rested the complete genealogy of the Chen clan.

It was clear these elders were the most senior members of the Chen surname in Qingyang City, present to witness the events about to unfold.

On another side, two uniformed individuals—a man and a woman—sat before a table laden with documents, their badges bearing the word "Notary."

The Chen family members displayed a variety of expressions, though most wore looks of mockery and anticipation, eager to witness the moment when Chen Jianguo and his family would be expelled.

As the eldest son, Chen Xiong sat just below the old lady, flanked by Chen Wenli and Chen Peng. Their faces held the same proud, faint smile as their father, casting frequent glances toward the doorway.

According to tradition, Chen Wenli and Chen Peng, as juniors, had no right to sit in such positions. But Chen Xiong's family wielded unmatched influence within the clan, and none dared question their seats, as though their succession as the next leaders of the Chen family was already taken for granted.

“Hmph! Why haven’t they arrived yet?” Old Madam Chen checked the time, her impatience barely concealed as she coldly snorted.

Her health was not yet fully restored, but Chen Xiong and his sons had nagged her incessantly, especially after Chen Peng was beaten up at the car showroom. All blame had fallen on Su Zheng, and she was eager to see him cast out of the family.

The old lady had long lost hope in Chen Jianguo’s branch, and so, despite her frailty, she had resolved that today she would announce their expulsion.

“Mother, if they don’t come soon, you might as well make the announcement yourself. Spare yourself the trouble of seeing those useless wretches; they’ll only upset you,” Chen Xiong advised quietly.

“Yes, that’s best. All the necessary witnesses are here. Even if they don’t show up, the decision stands!” Old Madam Chen nodded slowly, her resolve firm.

Just as her words faded, someone entered from outside.

Chen Muxue had arrived.

Coming directly from the company by car, she arrived before Su Zheng and her parents.

Upon entering, she scanned the room, and as she took in the imposing scene, her expression dimmed. Her large eyes brimmed with despair and humiliation.

She could not fathom why her grandmother had to be so ruthless, insisting on driving her parents to ruin.

“Hmm? Your face... has healed?” Old Madam Chen was momentarily startled at the sight of Chen Muxue’s features, instinctively voicing her surprise.

“Yes.” Chen Muxue replied indifferently, her mood leaving her little inclination for words.

“Sit down.” Old Madam Chen gestured for her to take a seat, studying her face for a moment.

The other Chen family members were equally astonished by Chen Muxue’s appearance. Though they had not seen her disfigured, her face now was flawless, like a perfect sculpture, without a trace of scars. Her skin was fair and delicate.

Deep in her eyes, Chen Wenli’s gaze grew jealous. “Ha! Grandmother summoned the whole family, and you arrive so late. You really have no sense of propriety!”

“What’s this? Are you the busiest, with so many affairs you can’t handle? I don’t think you deserve a seat. Coming so late deserves punishment—stand off to the side!” Her voice was mocking and icy.

Her words prompted a chorus of agreement from the younger members of the family.

“Yes, lateness should be punished. I support Wenli’s suggestion.”

“She thinks she’s some big boss? Even at a family meeting she’s late—where’s the respect for rules?”

“Stand up, you have no right to sit here!”

Voices rang out, eyes filled with derision and ridicule, determined to deny Chen Muxue a seat.

With her head bowed, Chen Muxue halted just short of the chair, her beautiful face flushed with humiliation. Silenced by the crowd, she obediently stood to the side.

“Ah, what a pity…” Old Madam Chen gazed at her granddaughter’s lovely features, muttering coldly.

After a moment’s hesitation, she fixed her gaze on Chen Muxue and spoke slowly:

“In truth, your family still has a chance, but it depends on whether you wish to seize it.”

Chen Muxue looked up sharply, hope dawning on her face. “Grandmother, please tell me—I’ll agree to anything!”

If only her grandmother would rescind her decree, and spare her parents from public disgrace, Chen Muxue thought she could endure any hardship.

“In a few days, a distant relative from the capital will bring her son to Qingyang. He’s about your age—handsome, capable, and most importantly, he’s already been designated as heir to their family’s financial empire. So I want you…”

“Grandmother, stop! I will never agree!” Chen Muxue interrupted loudly, without waiting for the old lady to finish.

Her tone was resolute, mingled with grief and anger.

No further explanation was needed; Chen Muxue already understood her grandmother’s intention, and it was absolutely impossible for her to comply.

She already had a husband, and no matter how extraordinary or talented this other man might be, nothing could ever sway her.

What grieved her most was that her grandmother still viewed her as a mere pawn in business arrangements.

Such things had happened before; her repeated refusals had only deepened the old lady’s dislike for her.

But no matter what, Chen Muxue would never betray her principles.

“Hmph! Ungrateful wretch! You infuriate me!” Old Madam Chen’s face darkened to its limit, her voice cold and harsh.

“Grandmother, calm yourself. Some people are born to suffer—why let them upset you? If you damage your health for their sake, it’s hardly worth it!” Chen Wenli’s words, though meant as comfort, were more a humiliation for Chen Muxue, while simultaneously showing off her own filial devotion.

“Which shrew is insulting my wife? Looking for trouble, are you!” A voice called from outside, and Su Zheng strode in, followed by Chen Jianguo and his wife.

Su Zheng swept the room with a cold gaze, and spotting Chen Muxue standing alone, his eyes flashed.

“Muxue, why are you standing? Whatever the issue, sit down and talk!” He marched over, took her hand, and led her to an empty chair, seating himself boldly.

Chen Jianguo and his wife looked ahead and, finding no seats reserved for them, sat beside Su Zheng.

“Hmph! You worthless wretch—growing bolder by the day!” Old Madam Chen’s fury erupted.