Chapter 13: Forced to Face Reality

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Shi Yun’s ruby lips pressed lightly together as she nodded. Her jet-black hair cascaded like a waterfall, with a few strands partially veiling her profile. Jiang Zhiyu leaned in slightly and said, “If you agree to the collaboration, it will allow everyone to truly understand who you are. The production team will also take the opportunity to include a clarification segment. By handling it this way, those rumors might just collapse on their own.”

Hearing this, Shi Yun’s long lashes trembled softly as she slowly lowered her eyes. The thick lashes cast a shadow on her eyelids. In truth, whether to clarify or not was secondary. What stirred her heart was the chance to spread awareness of the intangible cultural heritage technique of ancient painting restoration.

Back when her grandfather was alive, the reputation of the Ink Scholar Hall was formidable throughout the capital. But since she took over, the volume of commissions had noticeably declined. She had never intended to profit greatly from this work; her sole wish was to pass down this heritage skill and honor her grandfather’s trust. Yet, under the current circumstances, she had no choice but to face reality. If no one sought her out to restore ancient paintings, how could she continue the legacy?

Moreover, she had already resolved not to touch a single penny from the Shi family’s funds anymore, even planning to return the years of support she had received. This made financial independence an urgent matter. Having been accustomed to a privileged life for twenty-two years, without a means to support herself, she feared she wouldn’t even have the barest necessities.

Jiang Zhiyu wasted no time, swiftly pulling out her phone to call the production team. “Hello, is this the ‘Detailed China’ program team? This is Jiang Zhiyu. We previously discussed a collaboration involving Shi Yun.”

After a few questions on the other end, Jiang Zhiyu nodded repeatedly and hurriedly responded, “Yes, that’s the granddaughter of Master Shi, Shi Yun. The thing is, there are some false rumors online. We hope to add a clarification segment in the program. Would that be possible?”

Upon receiving their reply, Jiang Zhiyu’s face brightened with surprise. She stopped in her tracks and raised her voice, “Really? Thank you so much!” After exchanging a few more pleasantries, she hung up and exhaled deeply.

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Turning to Shi Yun, Jiang Zhiyu made an “OK” gesture and said, “All set! I just mentioned adding the clarification segment. The production team said it’s hard to find someone who inherits intangible cultural heritage skills. They don’t really pay attention to the messy online reputations and are quite willing to cooperate.”

Shi Yun stood quietly nearby, and upon hearing this, a faint smile curved her lips. Her long, curled lashes fluttered gently, her clear, alluring eyes shining with purity. Jiang Zhiyu was momentarily dazzled by her smile before clearing her throat and asking, “We’ll discuss the details when we meet with the production team tomorrow. Where do you think would be a good place to meet?”

Shi Yun lowered her gaze, pondering briefly, then twirled a strand of hair around her finger and replied in a calm, measured tone, “Let’s go to Ji Xiaolin’s teahouse. It’s close to the Ink Scholar Hall, convenient to bring them over afterward for a visit. This way, we avoid making extra trips.”

Jiang Zhiyu clapped her hands in agreement. “It’s quiet there, the atmosphere is great. Perfect. It’s settled!”

While Jiang Zhiyu and Shi Yun were arranging the collaboration, the Shi family presented an entirely different scene. In their spacious, bright living room, the warm yellow light of a crystal chandelier bathed the room. Ruan Tian sat on the sofa with her parents. Shi Xiao reclined against the sofa back, holding a cigar and occasionally blowing smoke rings, his face carrying a casual, leisurely air.

Gao Yun was intently discussing the latest fashion trends with Ruan Tian. She pointed admiringly at models in a magazine, then grabbed Ruan Tian’s hand with affectionate eyes, saying, “Sweetie, look at this style and color—so perfect for you. You’d look stunning wearing it.”

Ruan Tian picked up a fashion magazine, flipping to a page and lightly tapping a new outfit with her finger. Turning to Gao Yun, her eyes sparkled as she said, “Mom, don’t you think this dress suits me perfectly? The design and color instantly remind me of myself. When I attend the next event, I’ll definitely dazzle everyone.”

She even gently shook Gao Yun’s arm, her face full of eager anticipation for praise. Gao Yun laughed at her, lightly patting her hand with indulgence. “Of course, my sweetie is naturally beautiful. Whatever you wear will look amazing. If you wear that, those socialites won’t stand a chance next to you.”

A faint smile lifted Ruan Tian’s lips, but then she suddenly frowned, speaking quietly, “I wonder how my sister is doing. She’s been angry and gone for so long without contacting home. I can’t help but worry.”

She sighed softly and glanced toward Shi Xiao and Gao Yun, seeking their reactions. Shi Xiao frowned and flicked his ash impatiently, snorting coldly, “Let her do whatever she wants. She’s an adult but still throwing childish tantrums. The Shi family can’t keep being tormented by her; she’s almost ruined our reputation.”

Gao Yun’s smile vanished instantly. She pursed her lips and said, “Forget about her. Let her be. If she hadn’t bullied you at the banquet, no one would have recorded and posted it online. Now I don’t even know how to explain it to my friends—it’s embarrassing.”

Ruan Tian stared at the floor and said, “But… I’m still afraid my sister might suffer outside.” Yet secretly, she was pleased, thinking this time Shi Yun had truly fallen out of favor. She wondered what Shi Yun could possibly compete with her for.

“She’s grown up; what harm could come to her?” Gao Yun gently stroked Ruan Tian’s head. “But you, my good girl, you’re just too kind. I worry you might get bullied outside. If anything happens, you must tell me, okay?”

Ruan Tian nodded obediently.

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Inside the Floating Leaf Leisure Pavilion, the atmosphere was serene and elegant, with the mingling scents of tea and bamboo. Ink bamboo paintings adorned the bamboo screens, and a few red lanterns cast a soft glow, enhancing the tranquil ambiance.

Shi Yun arrived early, sitting by the window admiring the bamboo while waiting for the program director. She wore a moon-white qipao that accentuated the slender grace of her waist perfectly. Her black hair was loosely pinned up, with a few stray strands framing her fair neck, making her appear delicate and captivating.

“Xiaoyun.” A soft, enchanting voice called as Ji Xiaolin approached gracefully. Her figure was voluptuous yet never bulky, clad in a deep purple qipao embroidered with peonies, perfectly outlining her exquisite curves. She carried a delicate tea set and took a seat opposite Shi Yun.

“Xiaolin sister,” Shi Yun nodded slightly and replied softly.