Chapter Forty-Two

During the family's routine weekend gathering, the atmosphere was as heavy as a thousand-pound stone pressing down on everyone's heart.

Gu Feiyang’s sarcastic remarks and the chatter of the younger clan members made the entire hall sound like an exploding wok.

Just as everyone was arguing with flushed faces, Grandpa Gu slammed his teacup down, producing a deafening "bang" that struck everyone's heartstrings like a war drum.

His face was livid, and his stern gaze swept across the room. His deep, resonant voice carried a trace of a tremble: "All of you, shut up! Liuyun has his reasons for making this decision! Every single one of you only knows how to indulge in pleasure, have you ever given a thought to the family's future?!"

Gu Liuyun looked at the chaotic scene before him and took a deep breath to suppress the rising anger in his heart.

He stood up, his gaze like torches sweeping across the face of every family member, and said in a deep voice: "I know the implementation of the new regulations will make some people uncomfortable, but this is the necessary path for the development of our family business. If anyone refuses to comply, I, Gu Liuyun, will show no mercy!"

At this moment, Ye Manman and Chen Jiaojiao also walked over, standing on either side of him to show their support.

However, an undercurrent of suppressed hostility lingered between the two women.

Ye Manman intentionally or unintentionally nudged Chen Jiaojiao aside, and Chen Jiaojiao, refusing to be outdone, glared fiercely at Ye Manman.

Although their petty actions were subtle, everyone around them could feel the oppressive atmosphere, as if it could ignite at the slightest touch.

Grandpa Gu’s gaze lingered on the two of them for a moment, his tone remaining severe: "Family members should be united, not bickering endlessly over trivial matters. Manman, Jiaojiao, you are both the future of the family, and you should put the overall situation first."

Ye Manman smiled and nodded, though her eyes still carried a trace of provocation, while Chen Jiaojiao tightly pressed her lips together, clearly unwilling to accept this.

Seeing this, Gu Liuyun’s heart tightened.

Just as everyone fell silent, Gu's uncle suddenly let out a cold laugh and stepped forward: "Dad, since you put it that way, I do have a question. After the new regulations were introduced, many people in the clan are dissatisfied. Does Liuyun truly have the ability to solve these problems?"

Gu Liuyun’s eyes sharpened, but a confident smile crept onto the corner of his mouth as he slowly said: "Uncle, I understand what you're saying. However, some things are best left to facts to speak for themselves."

Grandpa Gu heavily slapped the table, his eyes full of firmness as he looked at Gu Liuyun: "Liuyun, I believe in you!" Before his voice even faded, he abruptly added, "But you must prove it to me, and prove it to everyone!"

Gu Liuyun smiled slightly, silently calculating his next move in his heart.

He knew that this family feud was far from over.

Gu Liuyun’s lips curved slightly into a confident arc.

He cleared his throat, and the aura of an Immortal Venerable instantly emanated from him. An invisible pressure enveloped the entire hall, abruptly cutting off the noisy discussions.

Everyone felt as though they were being pressed down by a massive mountain, making breathing difficult.

"Did you think I was joking with you about the benefits of the new regulations?" Gu Liuyun’s tone was calm, yet carried an unquestionable majesty. "This is to elevate the family business to new heights and make sure your pockets all bulge out! If you don't listen to me, there will come a time when you'll be crying your eyes out!"

He paused, then continued, "Of course, if anyone thinks their petty cleverness can surpass mine, feel free to try. I, Gu Liuyun, will accompany you to the very end." His gaze swept over everyone present, sharp as flashing blades, making those family members who still harbored dissatisfaction instantly bristle with fear and break out in cold sweats.

Their initial complaints and doubts were blown away by his overwhelming aura, replaced instantly by awe and submission.

With these few words, he both stated his stance and intimidated the crowd, maximizing Gu Liuyun's prestige.

Those who had previously given lip service while secretly defying the new regulations now obediently lowered their heads, not daring to draw a full breath.

The younger clan members shrank together like quails, terrified of being singled out for criticism by Gu Liuyun.

Seeing that everyone had been subdued, Gu Liuyun softened his tone and revealed a warm smile. "Of course, I am not an unreasonable person. The purpose of the new rules is to make the family better. If you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to voice them, and I will seriously consider them."

This combination of sternness and benevolence by Gu Liuyun completely won over the clan members who had still harbored grievances.

One after another, they expressed their support, admiring Gu Liuyun's leadership skills to the utmost degree.

Having resolved the family dispute, Gu Liuyun rubbed his temples and turned his gaze toward Ye Manman and Chen Jiaojiao.

Taking both of their hands, he led them to a quiet corner. His gentle tone carried an unquestionable firmness: "I know you two have some minor conflicts, but right now, family unity is of the utmost importance. I hope you can put aside your prejudices and get along well for the future of the family."

Looking into Gu Liuyun’s deep eyes, a sudden, inexplicable tremor welled up in the hearts of both Ye Manman and Chen Jiaojiao.

His tone was not harsh, yet it carried an irresistible strength.

The two women exchanged glances, and a trace of softening appeared in both of their eyes.

Ye Manman let out a soft huff and coquettishly said, "Understood, Brother Liuyun, I'll listen to you." Chen Jiaojiao also nodded, her gaze no longer as hostile as before.

At this point, the atmosphere of the family gathering had clearly eased.

Although the conflict between Ye Manman and Chen Jiaojiao had not been completely eliminated, Gu Liuyun believed that given time, he would definitely be able to resolve the issue entirely.

"Alright, let's end today's gathering here," Gu Liuyun said to everyone. Then, he cast his gaze toward the garden, a meaningful smile playing on his lips as he whispered, "Manman, Jiaojiao, accompany me for a walk in the garden."

Gu Liuyun led Ye Manman and Chen Jiaojiao to the back garden. Under the night sky, the garden appeared exceptionally tranquil; moonlight spilled over the verdant lawn, and a gentle breeze brought forth waves of floral fragrance.

Gu Liuyun gently released their hands, a warm smile on his face.

"The scenery here is quite nice. Let's chat as we walk." He motioned for the two of them to follow him as he strolled slowly along the flagstone path.

Though Ye Manman and Chen Jiaojiao were no longer openly at odds, the atmosphere remained somewhat tense.

Gu Liuyun walked between them, looking at them thoughtfully.

"I know the conflict between the two of you hasn't just lasted a day or two," Gu Liuyun said, his tone even yet filled with an undeniable firmness. "But today, I want to find out what exactly has been keeping this grudge alive between you."

Ye Manman bit her lower lip.

Hearing this, Chen Jiaojiao's eyes instantly blazed with anger as she retorted, "I'm telling you, you're being completely unreasonable! When did I ever talk behind your back? It's clearly you who are narrow-minded and always picking on me!"

The atmosphere instantly grew tense once more, their voices sounding jarringly sharp in the quiet garden.