"Lu Jingchen, you’re asking for death!"
Gu Han's voice was cold, carrying a hint of chill, like a sharp knife piercing Lu Jingchen's heart.
Lu Jingchen looked at Gu Han, a cold smile curling at the corners of his mouth. "You’re here; this just got more interesting."
A storm was about to break.
Gu Han's arrival was like a thunderclap, shattering the silence of the revolving restaurant. The cityscape outside the floor-to-ceiling windows sparkled like a galaxy, yet it paled in comparison to the tense undercurrents swirling within the restaurant. Dressed in a black suit, he stood tall and walked steadily, exuding an innate aura of authority as he made his way directly to Lin Weiwei.
Lin Weiwei's face, already pale as paper, now appeared completely drained of color. She clutched her skirt tightly, her knuckles turning white, tears brimming in her eyes like a frightened fawn huddling in a corner. Lu Jingchen's pressure suffocated her, as if she were trapped in an endless abyss, despair and fear enveloping her tightly.
Gu Han approached Lin Weiwei without hesitation and gently pulled her into his embrace. He carried a faint scent of tobacco mixed with a crisp cologne, familiar and reassuring. Lin Weiwei’s trembling body gradually calmed down as she found solace, burying her head deep into his chest. Gu Han tenderly stroked her hair, his gaze filled with compassion, as if he were cradling a precious treasure. "Don't be afraid, Weiwei. I'm here." His voice was deep and magnetic, imbued with a comforting strength that flowed into Lin Weiwei's cold heart like a warm current.
Watching their intimate exchange, the cold smile that had lingered on Lu Jingchen's lips faded away, replaced by darkness and ferocity. His long fingers lightly tapped on the table, producing a rhythmic "tap-tap" sound that seemed to vent his inner dissatisfaction. A glint of malice flashed in his eyes, akin to a beast lurking in the shadows, waiting for its moment to strike. "Gu Han, you arrived just in time; I have something to discuss with you."
Gu Han ignored Lu Jingchen's provocation and continued to gently stroke Lin Weiwei's hair, softly reassuring her. "It's okay, Weiwei; I’ve got everything under control." His tone was tender yet resolute, promising her safety while reaffirming his own determination.
Nestled in Gu Han’s embrace, Lin Weiwei felt the warmth radiating from him; her fear gradually dissipated and was replaced by an indescribable sense of security. She clutched at Gu Han’s shirt as if it were a lifeline, finding her only refuge in the vast ocean of uncertainty.
"Lu Jingchen, what exactly do you want? It’s inappropriate for you to secretly meet my wife behind my back," Gu Han raised his head and fixed an icy gaze on Lu Jingchen, his tone laced with warning. The depth of his eyes shimmered with cold light like a drawn sword aimed directly at Lu Jingchen.
Lu Jingchen scoffed disdainfully; contempt flickered in his eyes as he spoke mockingly. "What do I want? You know very well. You’re an intruder; it’s only natural for Weiwei to return to me."
"The child in Lin Weiwei’s womb is mine," Gu Han stated emphatically, each word deliberate and powerful, leaving no room for doubt. His declaration echoed throughout the revolving restaurant like a bomb detonating in an already tense atmosphere.
Lu Jingchen's expression darkened instantly; fury ignited in his eyes like an enraged lion ready to pounce. "Do I need you to emphasize that? I'm not foolish enough to think the child is mine!"
"Then it's settled. I won't disturb you any longer. I'll take Weiwei home," Gu Han said, meeting Lu Jingchen's gaze without fear, his eyes filled with provocation. His tone was calm yet undeniably firm, as if declaring his claim.
"You..." Lu Jingchen trembled with anger, unable to believe that Gu Han would dare to defy him like this. He clenched his fists tightly, knuckles turning white and veins bulging, as if he might crush the wine glass in his hand.
"Lu Jingchen, I warn you, stop having ideas about Lin Weiwei. It's over between you two. Now Weiwei is my wife. If you continue to offend me, I won't let you off so easily next time," Gu Han's voice was laced with threat, his eyes glinting dangerously like a protective tiger ready to fight for his loved ones.
"Gu Han, who do you think you are? What right do you have to threaten me?" Lu Jingchen shouted, refusing to allow anyone to challenge his authority. He stood up abruptly, his tall figure casting a shadow as he looked down at Gu Han.
"Whether I have the right or not, you'll find out soon enough," Gu Han replied confidently, unafraid because he knew he would do anything for Lin Weiwei. He stood tall and resolute, facing Lu Jingchen without flinching.
The atmosphere was tense, ready to explode at any moment. The air was thick with the scent of gunpowder, as if a single spark could ignite this silent war. Other diners in the restaurant paused their activities, curiously watching the scene unfold, realizing that a spectacle was about to begin.
Wang Hao stood nearby, nervously watching the two men. He sensed that a storm was brewing and clenched his fists, prepared to protect Lin Weiwei at any moment.
"Lu Jingchen, I'll ask you one last time: what do you want?" Gu Han's voice was icy, carrying a hint of chill like a sharp knife piercing Lu Jingchen's heart.
Lu Jingchen took a deep breath, trying to suppress the fury within him; he knew it wasn't the right time to confront Gu Han openly. "Gu Han, I advise you not to interfere in this matter; otherwise, you'll regret it."
"Regret? I, Gu Han, have never known how to write the word 'regret,'" Gu Han scoffed coldly, his eyes filled with disdain.
"Good. Very good," Lu Jingchen gritted through clenched teeth. He hadn't expected Gu Han to be so resolute; it seemed today would not end peacefully.
"Lu Jingchen, I'm giving you one last chance: leave here now or..." Gu Han's tone brimmed with threat as dangerous glimmers flickered in his eyes.
"Or what?" Lu Jingchen challenged Gu Han defiantly, eager to see what Gu Han would do next.
Gu Han said nothing, but suddenly swung a punch, striking Lu Jingchen hard in the face.
Lu Jingchen staggered back a few steps, a trickle of blood oozing from the corner of his mouth. He covered his face, his eyes filled with shock and anger. He never expected Gu Han would dare to hit him.
"You dare to hit me?" Lu Jingchen shouted, furious. He had never been struck by anyone in his life.
Gu Han let out a cold laugh, his eyes brimming with disdain. "That's exactly who I hit." He swung another punch, landing it squarely on Lu Jingchen's face once more.
Lu Jingchen was knocked back repeatedly until he finally fell to the ground, groaning in pain as he held his face.
Gu Han approached Lu Jingchen, looking down at him with contempt. "Lu Jingchen, remember this: Lin Weiwei is my woman. You'd better not have any ideas about her, or every time I see you, I'll hit you."
With that, Gu Han turned and left the revolving restaurant, wrapping his arm around Lin Weiwei.
Wang Hao followed closely behind as they exited the restaurant.
The other patrons in the revolving restaurant began to murmur among themselves, surprised to witness such a spectacle.
Lu Jingchen lay on the ground, his eyes filled with resentment and hatred. He vowed to take revenge and ensure Gu Han paid for this.
This storm had only just begun.
As Gu Han walked out of the revolving restaurant with Lin Weiwei, the biting night wind rushed towards them but could not disperse the tense atmosphere between the two.
Lin Weiwei clung tightly to Gu Han's clothing, her fingertips turning white as if grasping onto a lifeline. The night breeze tousled her long hair, making her delicate face appear even paler, like a fragile flower swaying in a storm. The luxurious lights of the revolving restaurant faded behind her, illuminating her face but failing to brighten the fear lurking in her eyes.
Gu Han looked down at the person in his arms, feeling a surge of tenderness as he held her tighter. He could sense her trembling body, like a frightened little bird huddled close to him. The appearance of Lu Jingchen had undoubtedly cast a massive stone into the calm waters of her life, creating ripples that pulled her into a whirlpool of fear.
“It’s okay, Weiwei.” His voice was deep and gentle, carrying a soothing power that flowed like a warm current into Lin Weiwei's cold heart. He gently rubbed his chin against the top of her head, again and again, as if making a silent promise to give her strength and courage.
Lin Weiwei lifted her head, looking at him with tear-filled eyes. The glistening droplets hung on her long eyelashes, sparkling like shattered stars in the dazzling lights of the revolving restaurant. She wanted to say something but choked on her words, unable to utter a single one. Fear, grievance, and lingering terror intertwined within her, blocking her throat.
Gu Han softly wiped away the tears on her face, his fingertips tenderly tracing her delicate skin before planting a gentle kiss on her forehead. That kiss was as soft as a feather brushing against her but carried the weight of his love and protection for her.
“Let’s go home.” Those three simple words contained infinite tenderness and determination, like a solid fortress shielding her from all storms.
Wang Hao drove in silence, knowing that any words at this moment would be superfluous. Only silence could provide them both with enough space to digest everything that had just happened.
The atmosphere in the car was heavy, reminiscent of the stillness before a storm. Outside the window, the city’s neon lights flickered and danced, mirroring Gu Han's complex emotions within.
Upon returning to the villa, Lin Weiwei's emotions remained unsettled. She curled up on the sofa like an injured little beast, her gaze vacant as if she had lost all vitality.
Gu Han enveloped her in his arms, gently patting her back as if comforting a child. His movements were slow and tender, filled with infinite patience and care, as if handling a fragile treasure.
“Don’t be afraid, Weiwei. Everything is over now.” His voice was deep and magnetic, like a soothing lullaby gradually calming her inner turmoil.
Lin Weiwei leaned against Gu Han’s chest, listening to the strong rhythm of his heartbeat—thump after thump—like drums echoing in her ears, bringing her a sliver of safety. She slowly began to calm down, her tense body gradually relaxing.
“Gu Han, thank you.” She whispered softly, her voice tinged with a hint of choking emotion that gently plucked at Gu Han's heartstrings.
“Foolish girl, why say thank you?” Gu Han tenderly stroked her hair, his fingertips gliding through her silky strands, sending shivers down her spine. “You are my woman; protecting you is my responsibility.” His tone was firm yet affectionate, sounding like both an oath and a promise.
Lin Weiwei held him tightly, burying her head in his chest, feeling the warmth and safety radiating from him. In that moment, she felt like the happiest woman in the world; even amidst the storm outside, as long as he was with her, she feared nothing.
However, this happiness felt so fragile, as if it could be shattered at any moment. Lu Jingchen's presence loomed like a ticking time bomb, buried in their lives, ready to explode and obliterate the happiness they had fought so hard to achieve.
Gu Han knew that this war had only just begun. He gazed at the flickering flames in the fireplace, his eyes deep and penetrating, as if he could see through everything. He understood that it was his carelessness in the past life that led to losing their child and losing Weiwei. This time, he had to protect Lin Weiwei and their child at all costs, ensuring they would not suffer any harm.
The next morning, Gu Han woke up early and looked at Lin Weiwei sleeping peacefully in his arms, his eyes filled with tenderness. She was in a deep slumber, her long eyelashes casting shadows on her eyelids, and the corners of her mouth slightly turned up as if she were dreaming sweetly.
He gently pressed a kiss on her forehead, soft as a butterfly's wing, afraid to disturb her beautiful dreams. Then he got up and left the room; his tall figure stretched long in the morning light, appearing particularly upright.
He needed to handle some matters and prepare for the impending storm. He knew he could not sit idly by; he had to take the initiative to gain control of this war.
He dialed Wang Hao's number, his tone calm yet steady, carrying an undeniable authority.
"Wang Hao, check on Lu Jingchen's recent movements for me. I need to know his every action."
"Understood, General Gu," Wang Hao replied respectfully and decisively. He recognized the seriousness of the situation and dared not delay.
After hanging up the phone, Gu Han walked to the floor-to-ceiling window and looked outside at the rising sun. The golden sunlight spread across the land, dispelling the darkness of night and bringing new hope. A glimmer of determination flashed in his eyes; he knew he had to win this war.
For Lin Weiwei, for their child, he had to give it his all.
Meanwhile, in Lu Jingchen's villa, the atmosphere was entirely different.
Lu Jingchen sat on the sofa with a sullen expression, his eyes filled with anger and resentment. He tightly gripped a goblet in his hand; the red wine inside swayed slightly with his movements, mirroring the turmoil within him.
He never expected that Gu Han would dare to strike him; it was a profound humiliation. Throughout his life, he had always been the favored one, never having endured such disgrace.
His fists clenched tightly, knuckles turning white, veins bulging like coiling dragons on the back of his hands.
"Gu Han, just wait! I will make you pay for this!" he gritted through his teeth, his voice filled with hatred, echoing like a roar from the depths of hell.
He picked up his phone and dialed a number, his tone cold and sharp, carrying the weight of authority.
"Find out everything about Gu Han for me. I want to know all his details! Including his weaknesses, his vulnerabilities—everything!"
After hanging up, a glint of malice flashed in Lu Jingchen's eyes, resembling a venomous snake poised to strike with its crimson tongue flickering, ready to deliver a fatal blow.
This war had only just begun; he would not concede easily.
He was determined to win back Lin Weiwei and ensure that Gu Han paid a heavy price.
Two forces clashed like surging undercurrents beneath a calm sea, brewing an even greater storm.
Who would ultimately prevail remained uncertain.
Gu Han stood before the floor-to-ceiling window, gazing into the distance with unwavering resolve and determination in his eyes.
He knew that the road ahead was fraught with thorns and challenges, but he was unafraid.
For within him resided love, responsibility, and an unwavering commitment to protect.
He would fight to the end for Lin Weiwei and their child.
Where would this war, shrouded in smoke, ultimately lead?
The morning sun streamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows, casting golden patches of light on the floor.
Gu Han stood by the window, bathed in the morning light, his figure tall and straight like a pine tree. Taking a deep breath, the dream from last night still lingered in his mind; Lu Jingchen's sinister gaze had stirred a sense of unease within him.
He dialed Wang Hao's number, his tone steady. "What have you found out about Lu Jingchen's movements?"
On the other end of the line, there was a crackling sound followed by Wang Hao's slightly weary voice. "General Gu, Lu Jingchen has recently been in contact with quite a few people, including some of our competitors in the East District, as well as... some figures from the underworld. I'm afraid their intentions are not good."
Gu Han furrowed his brow into a deep frown, a glint of coldness flashing in his eyes. Figures from the underworld? Was Lu Jingchen planning something nefarious? It seemed he had underestimated the lengths to which Lu Jingchen would go.
"Continue to monitor his movements closely. Report to me immediately if there are any signs of trouble," Gu Han's voice was low and authoritative. He had a premonition that a storm was about to break.
After hanging up the phone, Gu Han walked to the bedside and looked at Lin Weiwei's peaceful sleeping face, a hint of tenderness crossing his features. The sunlight illuminated her face, outlining her soft contours and easing the tension in his heart.
He knew he had to resolve the threat posed by Lu Jingchen quickly to protect Lin Weiwei and their child, providing them with a stable and peaceful life.
Gently, he caressed Lin Weiwei's cheek, his fingertips gliding over her delicate skin, filled with affection. At that moment, he wished time could freeze in this instant of tranquility.
"Weiwei, don't worry; I will protect you and won't let anyone harm you," he silently vowed in his heart, his tone firm yet gentle.
In her dreams, Lin Weiwei seemed to sense Gu Han's touch; her eyelashes fluttered slightly, and a faint smile graced her lips like a lily blooming in the morning light.
Gu Han leaned down and pressed a gentle kiss on her forehead, filled with infinite tenderness and love. Then, he took a deep breath, turned, and left the room, heading toward the unknown battlefield.
Meanwhile, in Lu Jingchen's villa, the atmosphere was starkly different, permeated by a chilling aura of impending violence.
Lu Jingchen sat in his study, holding a document with a grim expression. The ashtray was piled high with cigarette butts, and the air was thick with the acrid smell of tobacco.
The document contained detailed information about Gu Han, including his business strategies, interpersonal relationships, and even some of his personal hobbies. This information had cost him a fortune to acquire and would give him a significant advantage in the upcoming game.
"Gu Han, do you really think you can rest easy?" A flicker of malice crossed Lu Jingchen's eyes as a cold smile curled at the corners of his mouth, resembling a leopard poised to strike. He slammed the document down on the table with a dull thud.
Setting aside the file, he picked up his phone and dialed a number, his tone icy and devoid of emotion: "The plan can begin. Remember, I want it to be foolproof."
After hanging up the phone, Lu Jingchen walked to the window, gazing out at the bright sunshine, yet his eyes were filled with shadows. The sunlight illuminated his face but did nothing to dispel the darkness within him.
He knew that a great battle was about to erupt, and he was ready to do whatever it took to completely defeat Gu Han.
Upon arriving at the company, Gu Han immediately summoned the senior executives for a meeting. The atmosphere in the conference room was tense; everyone felt the oppressive sense of an approaching storm.
"Lu Jingchen has been very active lately; we must remain vigilant and prepare for any eventuality," Gu Han's voice was steady and powerful, carrying an undeniable authority that echoed in the room.
"General Gu, we have already strengthened risk management across departments and developed multiple contingency plans to respond to any challenges," said the marketing manager as he adjusted his glasses with determination in his voice.
"The technical department has also enhanced cybersecurity measures to prevent information leaks," added the technical director.
"Good. I expect everyone to maintain high vigilance and not let their guard down. We must win this battle!" Gu Han's gaze was sharp as it swept over everyone present, his tone filled with resolve.
After the meeting, Gu Han returned to his office and began to tackle the mountain of paperwork. Outside, the bustling city was alive with traffic, but it felt as if he were in a different world, immersed in his thoughts. He calmly analyzed the situation and contemplated strategies to address the challenges ahead.
He knew that he had to stabilize the company’s situation as quickly as possible in order to have more energy to confront Lu Jingchen's challenges. This was a war without gunfire; a single misstep could lead to total defeat.
Time ticked away, and the air was thick with tension, like a taut string that could snap at any moment.
Gu Han and Lu Jingchen were like two chess players engaged in a silent battle on the board. Every move was crucial, and one wrong step could lead them into each other’s traps.
This game affected their careers, their love lives, and even their fates.
Who would ultimately prevail remained uncertain.
In the evening, Gu Han returned to the villa where Lin Weiwei had already prepared dinner. The aroma wafting from the kitchen filled the room with warmth.
“Welcome back! Wash your hands and come eat,” Lin Weiwei said gently, her voice laced with concern, like a refreshing spring that washed away Gu Han's fatigue.
He walked over to her, wrapped his arms around her waist, and placed a soft kiss on her forehead, savoring her warmth and fragrance.
“You’ve worked hard,” he said softly, his voice tinged with weariness yet filled with happiness.
“It’s not hard at all; as long as you come back safely,” Lin Weiwei replied, snuggling into Gu Han's embrace, her face lighting up with a smile like a blooming sunflower.
After they finished dinner, they sat on the sofa chatting, enjoying this rare moment of tranquility.
“Weiwei, try not to go out much for a while. I’ll arrange for someone to ensure your safety,” Gu Han said, his tone tinged with worry. He knew what kind of person Lu Jingchen was and feared for Lin Weiwei’s safety.
"I know, don't worry, I will take good care of myself." Lin Weiwei nodded gently, holding Gu Han's hand, giving him strength and support.
Gu Han looked at Lin Weiwei, his eyes filled with affection. He knew that Lin Weiwei was the most important person in his life, and he would protect her with his life, ensuring she would not suffer any harm.
As night deepened, Gu Han and Lin Weiwei embraced each other in sleep.
Outside the window, the night was dark as ink, and the cold wind howled, heralding an impending storm.
This silent war was quietly changing their lives, pulling them into a larger vortex.
Everything was just beginning...
The night grew even darker, the cold wind battering against the window like an invisible beast roaring, emitting chilling low growls. The glass pane buzzed ominously, as if it could shatter at any moment under this powerful force.
Gu Han woke suddenly from his dreams, beads of sweat forming on his forehead and dampening the strands of hair at his temples. He had experienced a nightmare where Lin Weiwei lay bloodied amidst ruins; the tragic scene and her desperate gaze sent shivers down his spine, a bone-chilling fear gripping his soul.
He sat up abruptly, gasping for breath as his heart raced violently, as if it were trying to burst from his chest. The sensation of suffocation tightened around his throat, making it nearly impossible to breathe. He turned to look beside him; Lin Weiwei was peacefully asleep, a faint smile gracing her serene face like an innocent child, completely unaware of the shadow of danger looming over them.
Gu Han gently caressed Lin Weiwei's cheek, his fingertips gliding over her delicate skin as he felt her warmth. His heart calmed slightly. He hoped to make up for the debts of his past life in this one. This tangible sensation and warm body gradually pulled him from the terror of his nightmare. He got out of bed and walked to the window, gazing into the pitch-black night outside. The glow of the streetlights was torn apart by the cold wind, yet his unease grew stronger within him like a taut string ready to snap.
He had a premonition that something bad was about to happen; a strong sense of anxiety surged within him like a tide, nearly suffocating him. He lit a cigarette; the crimson flame flickered in the darkness, illuminating his furrowed brow and deep-set eyes.
Suddenly, a sharp phone ring shattered the night's tranquility; its jarring sound felt especially out of place in the quiet room. Gu Han picked up his phone and glanced at the caller ID—it was Wang Hao calling. At this hour, Wang Hao's call could only mean trouble.
"General Gu, it's bad! Lu Jingchen has sent people to attack our warehouse!" Wang Hao's voice was frantic and tinged with panic, almost incoherent. In the background, chaotic shouts and crackling flames mixed together made Gu Han's heart sink instantly.
Gu Han's heart sank suddenly, a chill rushing from his feet to the top of his head, making him feel as if he had fallen into an ice cave. The worst thing he feared had happened; Lu Jingchen, that cunning and treacherous man, had finally torn off the mask and revealed his sinister fangs.
"What’s the situation?" Gu Han forced himself to calm down and asked in a deep voice, barely concealing any emotion.
"The security system at the warehouse has been compromised, and a large portion of the goods has been destroyed by fire. The losses are severe! The brothers are fighting back, but..." Wang Hao's voice trembled with a hint of despair. By the end, he choked up and could say no more.
Gu Han's fists clenched tightly, knuckles turning white as his nails nearly dug into his flesh. Lu Jingchen, you finally made your move! You’ve gone too far! A surge of anger burned fiercely in his chest, almost consuming him.
"I understand. Preserve the evidence and call the police. I’ll be there right away," Gu Han said before hanging up the phone. Those few brief words contained boundless fury and murderous intent.
He took a deep breath, forcing himself to regain his composure. This was not the time for sadness or anger; he needed to get to the warehouse quickly to handle the aftermath and stabilize morale.
He glanced at Lin Weiwei, who was sleeping peacefully on the bed, a flicker of worry crossing his eyes. He couldn’t let her know about this; it would only cause her distress. This innocent and kind-hearted woman should not be tainted by such darkness and cruelty.
He gently placed a kiss on her forehead, filled with tenderness and affection, before turning away from the room and resolutely heading toward the flames and chaos.
Gu Han arrived at the warehouse as quickly as possible. The scene was a disaster; flames soared into the sky, thick smoke billowed, and the air was filled with a choking burnt smell that made it nearly impossible to breathe. The walls of the warehouse were charred black, and the collapsed steel structure twisted grotesquely like monstrous beasts clawing in the firelight.
Firefighters were battling to extinguish the flames, powerful jets of water shooting out but still unable to suppress the raging inferno. Police were maintaining order, setting up barriers to keep unauthorized personnel away. The scene was chaotic; voices clamored together with sirens and the crackling sounds of burning wood, creating a symphony of doom.
Wang Hao spotted Gu Han and rushed over, his face filled with anxiety and self-reproach. His hair was singed black from smoke, and his face was covered in dust, looking utterly disheveled.
"General Gu, I’m sorry. I didn’t protect the warehouse well..." Wang Hao's voice was hoarse with deep regret.
Gu Han patted Wang Hao on the shoulder and said solemnly, "This isn’t your fault; I underestimated Lu Jingchen’s ruthlessness. He had planned this all along; we were caught off guard."
He looked around, a glint of cold light flashing in his eyes, sharp as a blade. This fire was definitely not an accident; it was arson. Lu Jingchen, you have gone too far! You will pay for this!
"What is the damage situation?" Gu Han asked, his voice low and calm.
"Preliminary estimates indicate losses of at least ten million," Wang Hao replied, his tone heavy with resignation. A loss of ten million was undoubtedly a severe blow for them.
Gu Han took a deep breath, forcing himself to remain calm. Although ten million was not a small amount for him, it wasn't enough to cripple him. He still had opportunities and the possibility of turning things around.
"First, put out the fire, then assess the damage and handle the aftermath," Gu Han instructed, his tone firm and decisive.
"Yes, General Gu," Wang Hao nodded and immediately went to make arrangements.
Gu Han stood before the flames, watching the warehouse burn fiercely, filled with anger and hatred. The firelight flickered on his face, reflecting his complex emotions at that moment. Lu Jingchen, just wait; I will make you pay!
Suddenly, his phone rang—it was Lin Weiwei calling. The ringtone stood out sharply in the chaotic environment.
Gu Han hesitated for a moment but answered the call.
"Honey, where are you? Why aren't you back yet?" Lin Weiwei's voice was gentle but laced with concern.
Gu Han's heart tightened. He didn't want Lin Weiwei to know about this incident, but he couldn't lie to her either.
"I'm... I'm at the company dealing with some urgent matters; I might be late getting home," Gu Han replied, his voice low and weary.
"Oh, then please be careful," Lin Weiwei said, a hint of disappointment creeping into her tone.
"I will, you should rest early," Gu Han said before hanging up the phone.
His heart was filled with guilt. He had promised Lin Weiwei that he would protect her and keep her safe from harm, but he had broken that promise. How could he face her? How could he explain everything?
He looked at the warehouse engulfed in flames, a flicker of determination crossing his eyes. Lu Jingchen, I will make you pay for this. For Lin Weiwei, for my family, I will not let you go!
The firelight painted half the sky red, illuminating Gu Han's resolute face and the hatred and determination burning within him.
This war has only just begun... In the distance, a black sedan quietly parked by the roadside. Inside, Lu Jingchen watched the burning warehouse, a cold smile curling at the corners of his mouth.
The crimson flames reflected on his stern face, resembling a demon from hell.
"Gu Han, this is just the beginning," he murmured to himself, his eyes glinting with malice as if he intended to swallow the night whole.
He took out his phone and dialed a number, his fingertips tapping lightly on the screen with a hint of cruel satisfaction.
"The plan is progressing smoothly. Next, I will ruin him completely, leaving him with nothing." His voice was low and icy, devoid of any emotion.
A deep voice came from the other end of the line: "Understood." Brief and decisive, like a death sentence.
Gu Han returned home and pushed open the door, a familiar warm scent enveloping him. Lin Weiwei was already awake, sitting on the bed wrapped in a thin blanket, looking at him with worry etched on her face. The dim light cast a soft glow on her delicate features, highlighting her weariness.
"Honey, are you okay? Why are you back so late?" Lin Weiwei's voice trembled slightly as she noticed the smell of smoke clinging to Gu Han, deepening her unease.
Gu Han forced a smile as he walked to the bedside, gently embracing her in an attempt to dispel the chill in her heart with his warmth.
“It’s nothing, just some work stuff. Don’t worry,” he said softly, stroking her long hair. His tone was tender, but it couldn't hide the fatigue and heaviness within him.
Lin Weiwei leaned against him, feeling his warm body, and her unease eased slightly. Yet, she could still sense something unusual about Gu Han; it seemed he was hiding something from her.
“Honey, you seem really tired lately. You need to take care of yourself,” she said, looking up at him with concern in her eyes, filled with tenderness.
Gu Han nodded, guilt swelling in his heart. How could he possibly tell her? How could he reveal the impending crisis facing the company? How could he explain that this was all part of Lu Jingchen's scheme? He didn’t want to worry her; he only wanted to shield her from the storm.
The next day, news of the warehouse fire spread through the city like wildfire, becoming a hot topic of conversation on every street corner.
The media sensationalized the incident, portraying it as a malicious act of arson and stirring public outrage as speculation about the mastermind behind it ran rampant.
Gu Han's company stock plummeted like a kite severed from its string. Partners withdrew their investments in panic, and the company found itself in an unprecedented crisis, like a small boat tossed about in a storm.
Meanwhile, tax authorities intervened, claiming that Gu Han's company was involved in tax evasion. This was undoubtedly adding insult to injury, pushing Gu Han closer to the abyss.
He knew that Lu Jingchen was behind this; he had set a trap for him, waiting for him to walk right into it.
Trapped and isolated, Gu Han felt like a cornered beast fighting for survival but found no glimmer of hope for escape.
He had to find evidence quickly to prove his innocence; otherwise, he would face imprisonment and even ruin his family.
Determined, he began running around—searching for lawyers and reaching out to contacts—trying to turn the tide. Even if there was only a slim chance of hope, he refused to give up.
However, everything was in vain.
Lu Jingchen's power was too great; he held the city’s economic lifeline in his hands, looming like a colossal figure that instilled fear in everyone.
Gu Han's struggles, in his eyes, were nothing more than a dying fight, akin to an ant trying to shake a tree—futile and overreaching.
A few days later, the sound of police sirens shattered the morning tranquility as Gu Han was taken away by the authorities on charges of tax evasion. The cold handcuffs clamped around his wrists felt like a venomous snake, tightly coiling around his fate.
When Lin Weiwei learned the news, it struck her like a bolt of lightning, leaving her crumpled on the ground.
She couldn’t believe that Lu Jingchen could be so ruthless; this was undoubtedly a thunderclap for her.
She didn’t understand why Lu Jingchen had to do this.
Drawing from her memories of her past life, she sought help.
It turned out that Gu Han had changed the company’s legal representative to her name to protect her; he exchanged his freedom for her safety.
He had anticipated this day would come and had made arrangements in advance. He would rather be imprisoned than let her suffer any harm.
Lin Weiwei's heart ached as if it were being sliced by knives, tears rolling down her cheeks like scattered pearls.
She finally understood that everything Gu Han did was for her, for their family.
She felt regret, guilt, and anger at herself for not realizing his struggles sooner and for not sharing some of the burdens with him.
She swore that she would rescue him, no matter the cost, even if it meant losing everything she had.
She began to run around, searching for evidence and contacting lawyers, trying to prove Gu Han's innocence. She was determined to seek justice for him.
However, everything was so difficult, like rowing upstream; if she didn't move forward, she would fall back.
Lu Jingchen's power was too great; he had his hand over everything and almost controlled the entire city's judicial system, like an impenetrable fortress.
To him, Lin Weiwei's efforts were nothing more than a mantis trying to stop a chariot, foolishly overestimating her own strength.
But she did not give up. She firmly believed that good would triumph over evil and that the truth would eventually come to light. For Gu Han, for their love, she would fight to the end.
She repeatedly combed through the company's accounts, trying to find any clues, no matter how small.
Finally, amidst the mountain of accounts, she discovered some anomalies, like a glimmer of light in the darkness that illuminated her hope.
There was a large sum of money in the accounts with an unclear destination, like a huge mystery waiting for her to unravel.
Following this lead, she began an in-depth investigation, like a detective peeling back layers to find the truth.
After much hard work, she finally traced the money's whereabouts, as if clearing away the clouds to reveal the blue sky; the truth finally surfaced.
It turned out that Lu Jingchen had secretly transferred this money to an overseas account. He had abused his position for personal gain, embezzling and accepting bribes.
Lin Weiwei found the evidence that proved Gu Han's innocence and exposed Lu Jingchen's crimes. Through her efforts, she achieved a just verdict.
Lu Jingchen's conspiracy was exposed, and he was arrested by the police. What awaited him was the severe punishment of the law; all his schemes ultimately led to his own downfall.
Gu Han was released and returned to Lin Weiwei's side, like lovers reunited after a long separation, embracing tightly.
The two held each other closely, tears streaming down their faces, overwhelmed with joy.
They had endured so much hardship and finally welcomed the dawn of a new beginning. Their love had withstood the test.
With the truth revealed and justice served, their love grew even stronger, as solid as a rock, unshakeable.
However, the pain brought by this turmoil could never be erased, like a scar forever etched in their hearts.
They would carry this pain forward, ready to face new challenges. They believed that after the storm, they would eventually see a rainbow.
Lin Weiwei looked at Gu Han, her eyes filled with love and concern. She reached out and gently caressed his face.
"Honey, we will never be apart again," she said softly yet firmly, with a hint of relief after surviving the ordeal.
Gu Han tightly grasped her hand, his eyes filled with determination. He expressed his love for her through his actions.
"Yes, we will never be apart again," he replied in a deep and powerful voice, carrying a promise of protection.
They cried in each other's arms, finding solace and strength in their embrace. They believed that as long as they loved each other, they could overcome any difficulties.
The future held a long road ahead, but they were confident that as long as they loved each other, they could walk hand in hand toward the shores of happiness.
Outside, the sunlight poured into the room, illuminating their faces and shining a light on their hopes for the future. Everything was about to begin anew. Gu Han looked at Weiwei, his eyes filled with tenderness, yet deep within him lay a secret—a deeper truth behind the disaster, a secret he could not bring himself to speak of.
Lin Weiwei gazed at Gu Han, her eyes brimming with love and concern. She reached out, gently caressing his face, feeling the warmth of his skin as if she wanted to etch this moment into her heart forever.
“Honey, we will never be apart again,” her voice was soft yet resolute, tinged with a sense of relief from surviving a calamity and filled with anticipation for the future.
Gu Han held her hand tightly, their fingers intertwined, feeling the warmth of her palm. His eyes were filled with determination. Through his actions, he expressed his love for her and his commitment to their future.
“Yeah, we will never be apart again,” he replied in a deep and powerful voice, carrying a promise of protection along with a hidden secret.
He looked at Lin Weiwei, his gaze tender yet concealing a secret—one that held the deeper truth behind this disaster, a truth he could not voice. He was afraid; afraid that this secret would once again plunge them into despair, afraid it would destroy the happiness they had painstakingly rebuilt.
Taking a deep breath as if swallowing a heavy lead weight, Gu Han buried this secret deeper in his heart. He resolved that no matter what happened, he would protect Lin Weiwei and safeguard their home. At that moment, the warm sunlight streamed into the room, illuminating their faces and seemingly brightening their hopes for the future. Everything was about to start anew.
However, just as this warm atmosphere enveloped them, an abrupt ringtone shattered the moment's tranquility—Gu Han's phone rang.
He glanced at the caller ID; it was an unfamiliar number. A flicker of confusion crossed his mind. After hesitating for a moment, he answered the call.
“Hello?”
“Mr. Gu, I’m the delivery person. You have a package; please sign for it,” came a monotonous male voice from the other end.
Gu Han felt even more puzzled; he couldn’t recall ordering anything recently. Could it be something Lin Weiwei bought? He turned to look at Weiwei, only to see her shaking her head in confusion.
With uncertainty lingering in his mind, he walked to the door and signed for the package. It was a small parcel wrapped tightly in thick brown paper and securely sealed with tape, making it impossible to discern its contents. Yet when he held it in his hands, it felt unexpectedly heavy.
Returning to his room, Gu Han carefully unwrapped the package. Layer after layer of brown paper fell away, revealing its contents—a black USB drive. Aside from that, the package was empty, devoid of anything else.
Furrowing his brow, Gu Han was filled with confusion. Who had sent this? What was on the USB drive? This unexpected delivery felt like a stone thrown into a calm lake, sending ripples through his mind.
He took the USB drive and walked over to his computer, plugging it into the USB port. A window popped up on the screen, autoplaying a video file simply titled "The Truth."
A sense of foreboding washed over him as Gu Han took a deep breath and clicked the play button. The video began to play, and a familiar figure appeared on the screen—it was Lu Jingchen.
Lu Jingchen sat in a luxurious office, gently swirling a glass of red wine in his hand. The crimson liquid shimmered under the light, casting an eerie glow that highlighted the sinister smile on his face, making it all the more striking.
"Gu Han, did you think you won? You are so naive," Lu Jingchen's voice was low and cold, laced with mockery as it echoed from the speakers, creating an unsettling atmosphere in the room.
"I'll tell you this is just the beginning. I will ruin you, leave you with nothing. I will take everything from you, including the woman you love most."
The video abruptly cut off, freezing on Lu Jingchen's twisted face. The room fell silent, with only the hum of the computer's cooling fan breaking through the stillness.
Gu Han's face turned pale as he clenched his fists tightly, his nails digging into his flesh until he nearly drew blood. A surge of anger rose from deep within him, threatening to consume him whole. He finally understood that Lu Jingchen had not given up; he was still plotting something more sinister—he wanted to destroy him completely and ensure he could never rise again.
This USB drive was both Lu Jingchen's warning and his challenge—a blade hanging over him and Lin Weiwei.
Taking a deep breath, Gu Han struggled to calm himself. He knew he couldn't act impulsively; he needed to think clearly to devise a plan. He replayed the video repeatedly, scrutinizing every detail in search of clues. Lu Jingchen's office, the wine in his hand, his tone—all these details could hide crucial information.
Staring at Lu Jingchen's sinister face on the screen, a glint of cold determination flashed in Gu Han's eyes as he murmured to himself, "Lu Jingchen, do you think I'm afraid of you? You will pay for this."
He pulled out the USB drive and held it tightly in his hand as if gripping a real blade. His heart burned with anger and resolve. This was not just a flame of vengeance; it was a determination to protect what mattered most.
He stood up, walked to the window, and looked at the bustling city outside the window, his heart full of emotion. He knew that he was about to face a more brutal battle, but he was not afraid, because he knew that he was not fighting alone, he still had Lin Weiwei, his family, and his friends. He would fight to the end for them, no matter what the cost. He turned around and looked at Lin Weiwei, his eyes full of tenderness and determination. "Weiwei, I will definitely protect you and our home." Lin Weiwei looked at Gu Han, her eyes full of trust and love. She knew that no matter what happened, Gu Han would protect her and face it with her. "I believe you." Outside the window, the sun was still shining, but there was a tense atmosphere in the air, like the calm before the storm. Gu Han held the USB drive tightly, he knew that this would be the beginning of his counterattack and the starting point of his revenge. How could he use this USB drive to expose Lu Jingchen's crimes and protect himself and Lin Weiwei? What challenges and dangers will he face? Everything is still unknown...
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