Chapter 79: Never Before Have I Seen Such Shamelessness

Everyone knew what Zhou Kuan was scheming. It was nothing more than a wasted year; now, with someone eager to walk through the door, he wanted to seize the opportunity as quickly as possible. If Zhou Jiayan truly succeeded in marrying into the Li family, his influence within the corporation would rise to another level, and Zhou Licuan would no longer dare to challenge him at will.

Fuming, Zhou Jiayan found a seat for herself, while Du Bin, eyes on his nose and nose on his heart, quietly shifted to stand behind Zhou Licuan. He had no idea what would happen today, but whatever it was, it surely revolved around Zhou Jiayan.

Li Mingyi smiled at Zhou Kuan and said, "Uncle Zhou is right. Seeing all the elders here in good health puts my mind at ease. Jiayan and I have played together since childhood, and she’s always been filial. When the elders are happy, things are easier for her as well."

Zhou Licuan sat upright, legs crossed casually, exuding an air of refined aloofness. Li Mingyi stole a glance at him, making sure he didn’t react before daring to go on.

"Jiayan, you always invited me to your house before. Now, I’ve finally come."

Called out, Zhou Jiayan glanced at Du Bin behind Zhou Licuan, then, in defiance, stood up and sat beside Zhou Huai. "When was before? High school, wasn’t it? That was years ago. You have a good memory," she said.

Zhou Huai stared at the floor and said nothing. The endless stream of New Year’s visitors had left him exhausted after several days. This kid posed no real threat; let the younger ones handle it themselves.

Zhou Kuan lectured Zhou Jiayan, "He’s your senior—can’t you speak with some courtesy? Go get some fruit for Xiao Li. Jiayan, he’s your senior; you should treat him well."

Zhou Jiayan remained where she was, arms crossed. "Whoever invited him should entertain him. I didn’t ask him to come."

Zhou Kuan, frustrated, scolded, "Mind your words! It’s not easy for Xiao Li to visit. Xiao Li, don’t mind her; this child has been spoiled from a young age."

Li Mingyi smiled and shook his head. "It’s alright, Uncle Zhou. Jiayan and I had a little disagreement recently, that’s why she’s like this. Usually, she’s polite and very kind."

He even blushed at the perfect moment.

Zhou Kuan quickly responded, "From what you say, you two spend a lot of time together. That’s wonderful. Come often; the Zhou family welcomes you."

Zhou Licuan, feeling drowsy, covered a yawn with his fist. "I’m a bit tired. If Boss Li has business, just get to the point. I need a nap."

Li Mingyi was momentarily embarrassed, but quickly plastered a smile on his face. "Actually, I’m here today to fight for something for myself."

Zhou Kuan feigned ignorance. "What is it you want, Xiao Li? Whatever it is, just say the word, and Uncle Zhou will help."

Li Mingyi gazed at Zhou Jiayan, his eyes full of emotion. "I wish to propose to your daughter—Zhou Jiayan. I’m here today to request the elders’ consent and formally ask for her hand."

Zhou Licuan raised an eyebrow, surprised at his boldness. Was this a desperate gamble? What had provoked him?

As soon as the proposal was spoken, everyone’s expressions shifted, save Zhou Kuan, who was delighted. "Oh! Is this true? Jiayan, why haven’t you told your father about this? It’s so sudden, I wasn’t prepared!"

Li Mingyi smiled. "Uncle, don’t blame Jiayan. She’s shy—it’s normal for a girl. I want to publicly propose to her next month, but before that, I hope to gain your blessing."

Zhou Kuan immediately said, "I agree! Of course I agree! What reason could there be to refuse such a wonderful thing, especially since you care for each other. It’s fantastic!"

Li Mingyi’s smile lingered, but Zhou Jiayan, furious, stood and pointed at him, cursing.

"Li Mingyi, that’s enough! I’ve told you many times, I don’t like you! You’re harassing me! It’s the New Year—I don’t want to make a scene, but you push your luck!"

Li Mingyi’s face flushed, flustered. "Jiayan, please don’t be angry. I know I upset you, and I’m truly sorry, but I’m sincere. You must believe me."

Zhou Kuan resumed scolding Zhou Jiayan. "Sit down, Zhou Jiayan! Look around—do you think you can behave this way? Xiao Li has made his intentions clear. As your father, I approve this marriage. Whether you like it or not, you must obey. Sit down!"

Zhou Jiayan stared at her father in disbelief. How could he side with an outsider, so easily and carelessly arranging her entire life?

Zhou Huai finally spoke, voice low and firm, exuding an undeniable authority. "Where do you think you are, Xiao Kuan? She’s your daughter, yes, but she’s her own person. What era is this—you still want to play at arranged marriages?"

Zhou Kuan immediately fell silent. He’d never dared defy his elder brother, not since childhood. But at the same time, his resentment toward him was deepest. If only his brother hadn’t married Shen Xiaonan for the company, disregarding his own feelings, he himself wouldn’t have been forced by their father to break up with his beloved and marry a stranger.

Li Mingyi stood up at once, facing Zhou Huai. "Chairman Zhou, I truly care for Jiayan. I promise to treat her well, never let her down, and I hope you believe me. I’ll use everything I have to protect her and make her happy."

Zhou Huai smiled. "I believe you; but Jiayan’s father is still here, so marriage matters aren’t for me to decide. Xiao Li, I have only one thing to say to you. When you reach the end of the road, honesty is your only chance. Bring out your bargaining chips—sincerity is the least useful currency."

Li Mingyi pondered for a moment, unsure how to reply. But he understood: Zhou Huai wouldn’t interfere, so he must appeal to Zhou Kuan.

He quickly turned to Zhou Kuan. "Uncle, my family has long known of my feelings for Jiayan; they’re all waiting for good news today. Grandfather even put on new clothes, hoping to invite you and Jiayan over to celebrate. Jiayan will grow up, and I’m willing to wait for her."

Watching Zhou Kuan about to agree, Zhou Jiayan shouted, "Li Mingyi, are you insane? I said no! I don’t consent! Are you deaf? Dad, this is my marriage—I said I don’t agree. If you insist, then you marry him yourself!"

Zhou Kuan, humiliated by his daughter’s public rebuke, stood abruptly, raising his hand to strike.

"Pa!"

The hand stopped mid-air, his wrist firmly caught in another’s grasp.

Zhou Licuan felt a gust of wind behind him and silently applauded Jiang Zao’s keen intuition.

Facing the imposing Du Bin, Zhou Kuan suddenly felt a pang of guilt.

"What are you doing? Let go!"

Zhou Jiayan hid behind Du Bin, clutching his suit, her eyes reddened.