Chapter 745: Pig Teammate

Editor: Henyee Translations

Gu Shuzhi’s countenance darkened imperceptibly as he surveyed the room, his voice barely above a whisper. “Father, did you have a hand in this? Didn’t I instruct you to avoid provoking the first branch?”

Having long assessed his Eldest Uncle’s character, Gu Shuzhi had concluded that his uncle would likely never return to the capital, given his comfortable existence elsewhere.

Recognizing that his uncle’s family posed no threat, Gu Shuzhi had never viewed them as rivals. However, their sudden return disrupted his carefully laid plans.

It was considerably more challenging to contend with his Eldest Uncle, who had been groomed as a successor from a young age and honed his skills in the business world.

Meeting his son’s penetrating gaze, Gu Zhaoye shuddered, vigorously shaking his head. “No, it wasn’t me. I followed your instructions and refrained from antagonizing Eldest Brother’s family.”

Relieved, Gu Shuzhi exhaled audibly. “That’s a relief.”

If his father wasn’t responsible, then perhaps it was the second branch or even his grandmother.

Though he knew he would eventually have to confront them, at least he wouldn’t immediately clash with the main branch upon their return, affording him more time to strategize.

However, his father’s feeble admission caught him off guard. “I suspect it was our butler.”

“Damn”

Gu Shuzhi seethed with rage, his temper flaring like a wild beast. He fought the urge to overturn his chair in fury. “Father, why didn’t you speak up sooner?”

Gu Zhaoye took a swig of wine, his voice feeble. “I meant to tell you the day the butler was apprehended, but I forgot in my drunken stupor.”

He continued, “Besides, this matter doesn’t concern us. It’s the butler who harbors a grudge against Gu Zhaoming. The case is closed now. Whether I disclosed it earlier or not wouldn’t have changed a thing.”

Gu Shuzhi squeezed his eyes shut in frustration.

With a father as dense as his, he was bound to lose his mind sooner rather than later!

Observing his son’s contorted expression, Gu Zhaoye panicked. “Do you think Gu Zhaoming will suspect us? The police investigated and closed the case, didn’t they?”

Gu Shuzhi refused to engage, turning his head away in silence.

His gaze fell upon the entrance as members of the second branch made their arrival, his demeanor chilling.

Seating arrangements for the Gu family birthday banquet had been finalized in advance, with no provisions made for Gu Zhaoming and his family. Fortunately, the banquet hall was spacious enough, and Gu Hongwei arranged for an additional table to accommodate them.

Gu Zhaoming’s family occupied a prominent position between the main and elder’s tables, drawing the attention of many attendees, their expressions darkening with disapproval.

Gu Yang’s keen gaze swept over the faces of the Gu family elders, noting their evident lack of warmth towards her father. It was clear that his return was not universally welcomed.

As the birthday banquet commenced, the descendants of the Gu family stepped forward to present gifts and offer heartfelt congratulations to Gu Hongwei.

The second branch wasted no time in making their presence known.

As Gu Shuda passed by Gu Yang’s table, a momentary discomfort flickered across his features, likely recalling their recent confrontation. Hastily averting his gaze, he chose to ignore the awkwardness, pretending as though nothing untoward had occurred.

Meanwhile, Gu Shuxue arrived accompanied by Ye Qingzi for the festivities.

Introducing her companion to Gu Hongwei, Gu Shuxue spoke with pride. “Grandpa, this is Sister Qingzi, a direct descendant of the esteemed Ye family. She returned from her studies abroad last year and currently serves as a neurosurgeon at Capital Hospital.”

Turning to Ye Qingzi, she added, “I’ve been seeking Sister Qingzi’s guidance as I plan to pursue a medical career once the exam results are released.”

Ye Qingzi presented her gift with grace and elegance, offering a sincere wish. “May the Gu Family Head enjoy longevity and good health.”

Gu Hongwei, slightly taken aback by her unexpected presence, acknowledged her gesture with a nod of gratitude. “Thank you, Miss Ye.”

Turning his gaze to Gu Shuxue, he expressed approval. “Take a lesson from Miss Ye.”

The Ye family, connected by marriage to the prestigious Qin family of the Four Aristocratic Families and holding ties with the Xiao family, wielded considerable influence within the Eight Great Clans, surpassing even that of the Gu family.

Traditionally, the Ye family sent their butler or senior family members to convey gifts or attend such occasions as birthday banquets. It was a rare occurrence for a direct descendant of the Ye family’s lineage, especially a daughter, to be present at such an event.

Old Madam Gu summoned Gu Shuxue over, her voice tinged with urgency. “Shuxue, didn’t you mention that today’s the day we could check the college entrance examination results?”