Chapter 329 - Chapter 329: Chapter 316: Holding a Grudge (1/2)

Chapter 329: Chapter 316: Holding a Grudge

Translator: 549690339

“Miss Zhuang, there’s no need for such a formal gesture. Last night, I simply happened to be passing by in the middle of a nighttime journey. It was no more than a small effort for me, and there’s no need for you to concern yourself about it to such an extent.”

Chu Jinnian said, “It was indeed fortunate that you fought back valiantly last night, delaying time and preventing Jiang Yu and his accomplices from escaping. Now, Mr. Xu, the county magistrate, has arrested Jiang Yu and the other four, and the kidnapped victims are being returned home. Your actions have brought peace to our place and you have made an irreplaceable contribution.”

“If we were to closely examine the situation, you should be rewarded for your bravery. There’s absolutely no need to thank me.”

“I feel somewhat embarrassed,” Zhuang Qingning chuckled awkwardly. “When it happened last night, the first thing that came to mind was to save myself. I didn’t think about the other aspects much. I feel somewhat undeserving of such praise.”

And that’s exactly how it was.

Given the circumstances, she didn’t try to save those people out of obligation, but because escaping by carriage was simply the fastest option, and saving those people happened along the way.

“Attain self-preservation when poor, seek benefits for others when prosperous” was Zhuang Qingning’s life motto, even in times of danger.

Being praised for these actions now, Zhuang Qingning found it slightly uncomfortable.

“Miss Zhuang, that’s not right.”

“Although you were considering your own safety, you nonetheless ended up helping others. From their perspective, it was a lifesaving grace. From the county government’s point of view, you’re a person of merit. There’s no doubt about that.”

“Just like last night – wasn’t it just a simple act to me? You see it the same way. That’s the logic.”

Chu Jinnian slightly nodded as he spoke.

In other words, if she insists on thanking Chu Jinnian for saving her life, she must also admit her own “great contribution” to the incident. If she refuses to admit her own contribution, then she can’t thank Chu Jinnian for saving her life.

After careful thought, she concluded that this is an argument she cannot win.

Zhuang Qingning blinked, sighing softly in her heart.

Throughout history, these charming men have always been uniquely articulate. The man in front of her is no exception.

“However, there’s something I’m really curious about.” Chu Jinnian changed the subject. “How did Miss Zhuang know that I serve in court?”

“Didn’t Master Chu also know that I am surnamed Zhuang?” Zhuang Qingning smilingly replied.

Chu Jinnian was momentarily lost for words.

Why did he have the feeling of being played?

A moment later, Zhuang Qingning chuckled. “Master Chu, please forgive me for jesting with you. It wasn’t difficult to ascertain your identity. Before I fainted last night, I noticed that you were wearing a pair of black boots.”

Only the privileged wear black boots. A discerning person was indeed able to spot that.

However, when Zhuang Qingning was on the verge of fainting last night, her consciousness was already blurred. Surprisingly, she was still able to notice such minor details. Her calm and composed demeanor was truly remarkable.

“Your staff members often visit my tofu shop to buy food. So, many people know me.” Responding to his curiosity, Chu Jinnian didn’t hold back and only briefly explained the cause.

Of course, he didn’t mention how he had encountered Zhuang Qingning escaping from the kidnappers or his deliberate act of scaring off the street thugs.

“I see.” Zhuang Qingning acknowledged with a curtsy. “To Master Chu, the incident last night might’ve been just a small effort. To me, however, it was a life-saving grace. I should repay this kindness. Yet, as you are a high-ranking official and I am a humble farmer’s daughter, my means to repay you are rather limited.”

“Since Master Chu said your staff often patronize my tofu shop, it seems that the food I sell is to your liking. From now on, take whatever you need from the shop. My tofu shop will supply it on a long-term basis.”