Chapter 42 (1/2)

Chapter 42: He Knew from the Start

“Director, something has happened to Miss An,” Assistant Yin entered the office and immediately handed over the mobile phone to Chu Qichen.

Chu Qichen lifted his head as he received it. As he scrolled through the phone, he asked “When did this happen?”

Assistant Yin’s face flushed with guilt before replying, “Last night. I forgot to go on Weibo last night. I’ve just checked it today after the chaotic morning.”

Chu Qichen raised his gaze to meet the assistant. The latter quickly apologized, “I’m sorry, Director!”

“Where is she now?”

“I’ve just got in touch with Aunt Liu. She told me that An Wen’s already returned to the villa.”

Then, Chu Qichen went back to scrolling through the trending searches. His brows were knitted together when he inquired again, “Lu Maner… Which entertainment company is this actress from?”

“She’s from East Entertainment. Director, should we cut ties with her?”

“Without question, but not right now.” The actress introduced An Wen to the harsh reality of the entertainment industry. However, Chu Qichen wanted to take the opportunity to pull An Wen out of it.

“Instruct Hua Talent’s public relations department to publicize An Wen’s actual age.”

After that, Chu Qichen phoned Aunt Liu and told her of his intention to visit the villa tonight.

The excited Aunt Liu went to get An Wen out of bed straight away. “Miss, Mister’s coming over later.”

The information had An Wen widened her eyes in shock. “Isn’t he out of the country?” she asked.

“Mister came home last week.”

An Wen was overcome with surprise. She quickly got dressed and rushed downstairs to get Jiang Shiyu. “From now onwards, lock yourself in here and never, ever leave this room no matter what happens,” An Wen instructed her assistant.

“What’s wrong? Has Lu Maner transformed into her true demon self again?” The shock had taken over Jiang Shiyu’s sleepiness.

“No, but this is ten thousand times more terrifying than Lu Maner.” An Wen placed some snacks and drinks in Jiang Shiyu’s room before warning the latter once more, “Remember, only leave the room when I say so over the phone. Do not open this door without receiving my call.”

“What’s actually happening?” Panicked, Jiang Shiyu enquired again.

“I don’t have the time to explain. In short, you can’t leave this room, understand?” An Wen finally left the room after Jiang Shiyu made her promise. The latter then locked the door from the inside.

Next, An Wen sat on the sofa with the TV on as she waited for Chu Qichen’s arrival. A short while later, the sound of the moving car entered her ears. She rose to her feet and glanced towards the porch. Without surprise, Chu Qichen was approaching the house.

He threw an indifferent glance toward her way and changed into the indoor slippers. Aunt Liu hurried toward him and in a very enthusiastic manner, saying, “Mister, dinner will be served when the soup is ready. I’ve prepared two more dishes specially for you.”

“Got it,” Chu Qichen grunted and headed for the sofa.

An Wen stood next to the sofa. “Mister Chu,” she greeted obediently.

Chu Qichen positioned himself on the sofa then crossed his long, slender legs. He met her gaze and spoke in a soft tone, “You’re finally home. Where did you visit this time?”

“I went to several places. Travelling has broadened my experience and made me see things from different perspectives,” An Wen replied.

“Tell me, then, how has it has broadened your experience and changed your perspective,” Chu Qichen demanded. His tone was nothing unusual but it somehow made An Wen felt pressured.

It was as if she was being questioned by her parents.

“I don’t really know how to put it into words. Mister Chu, you should go out and see some places too, if you have the time,” the girl replied. Her silky-smooth, straight hair fell perfectly on her back. The pretty, peach blossom eyes on her beautiful face glistened as she spoke.

It was only now that Chu Qichen felt the little girl standing in front of him had grown up. Lying had come so naturally to her. Perhaps she did learn a lot during her time in acting.

“You don’t even know how to express your thoughts anymore. An Wen, it’s time for you to return to school.”