From the moment Zheng Mengni saw the news about the Wei Family, she had a bad feeling brewing inside her. No matter how low Wei Jingxi's mood was, he never showed it on his face. Occasionally, when he encountered gossipy people along the way to see Zheng Mengni, he would take care of them effortlessly. Then he would act as if nothing had happened, not uttering a single unnecessary word, and continued to do as he pleased.
Sometimes, he even seemed quite happy, boasting that he would cultivate Zheng Mengni, who was tone-deaf, into a master-level singer. Zheng Mengni blinked her eyes and replied, "If Teacher Wei doesn’t mind that I’m slow, then of course I’ll study hard."
Wei Jingxi’s voice was casual as he raised an eyebrow and asked, "Do you prefer learning to sing or learning to paint?" He emphasized the last three words deliberately, as if highlighting something or reminding her of something.
"Can’t I learn both?"
Wei Jingxi slammed his hand down: "Of course not! You can’t have it both ways! Zheng Mengni, you’re too greedy. Isn’t it enough that I’m teaching you? You also want to find some mediocre teacher?"
"I’m diligent and eager to learn; did you just find that out?"
"I didn’t say you couldn’t learn to paint," Wei Jingxi replied pointedly. "It’s just that the chaotic paintings from those disorganized teachers are also chaotic. I’m afraid you’ll pick up bad habits."
Zheng Mengni propped her chin on her hand, tilting her head with a hint of grievance and melancholy in her tone. "So does that mean my paintings are chaotic too?"
"Not at all."
Wei Jingxi gently cupped her soft white face and sincerely praised her: "The paintings you create are the most beautiful in my eyes. That’s why I think there’s no need to invite those dubious people to teach you. You haven’t noticed? I’ve observed many times; the way he looks at you is simply disgusting—there’s no hint of being a proper teacher!"
He became more agitated as he spoke, finally adding fiercely, "Bah! Scoundrel!"
When Zheng Mengni didn’t know how to respond, she often used her confusingly charming smile to gloss over the topic. To others, her sincere and innocent smile surely conveyed approval. But what she truly thought remained clear only to Zheng Mengni herself. As for what others believed—that was none of her concern; she hadn’t said anything at all.
This week, Wei Jingxi didn’t mention the scandal involving the Wei Family that had stirred up the entire city, and Zheng Mengni tacitly refrained from asking about it.
Before they knew it, a week had passed.
Zheng Mengni encountered Zheng Yicheng at the corner of the staircase. She greeted him gently and politely, preparing to head to the Art Studio for practice.
Just as she took half a step forward, Zheng Yicheng stopped her.
"Come with me to the study."
Zheng Mengni had a good idea of what was coming and silently followed him.
The strict father and caring mother were the quintessential representation of the Zheng Family. Yet, within Zheng Yicheng's strictness lay an added layer of a businessman’s pragmatism. He aimed not only to nurture the most outstanding children but also to cultivate talents who could contribute to the Zheng Family's future endeavors.
Upon entering the study, she was greeted by an orderly arrangement. Every item in the room, from a piece of furniture to a single sheet of paper, was placed in its designated spot.
Zheng Yicheng sat at the desk, his hands folded together, his calm demeanor betraying no hint of emotion.
He didn’t invite her to sit; naturally, Zheng Mengni stood obediently before him.
Zheng Yicheng was known for his decisiveness; he disliked beating around the bush.
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