The Villainess Awakens After Marrying the Male Lead’s Brother - Chapter 30

Chapter 30

The driver, who accidentally caught a glimpse of the boss’s expression through the rearview mirror, drove cautiously, fearing any bumps that might wake the two people in the back seat and earn himself a scolding. Although Jiang Yunyan hadn’t scolded anyone, not scolding made him even more frightening.

Noticing the driver’s unease, Wen Yu became even more upset. After some thought, she turned her head towards the window and let out a soft sob. Jiang Yunyan’s face changed slightly, “Xiaoyu?”

Wen Yu covered her face, whimpering, “What did I do to upset Big Brother? Look at his expression; he must think I look bad and embarrass you, right?”

As Wen Yu spoke, the driver suddenly relaxed, glancing at the rearview mirror. The boss’s cold demeanor had softened, earning deep respect from him.

It had to be you!

Meanwhile, Jiang Yunyan was hurriedly explaining, “I didn’t!”

“No, you did!” Wen Yu covered her ears, shaking her head like the female lead in a TV drama. Her face, accidentally revealed, was flawless, with only a slight redness around her eyes. “I won’t listen; you clearly have an issue. The moment I got in the car, you frowned. You must dislike me. Despite waiting for you until late last night, even sleeping on the sofa, you treat me like this. I’ll tell Aunt Jiang, sob, sob, Big Brother bullies people!”

A hint of surprise flashed in Jiang Yunyan’s eyes. His dim eyes slightly brightened, “You waited for me?”

Wen Yu glanced at him with grievance, about to speak. Suddenly realizing she hadn’t shed tears to prevent her makeup from smudging, she quickly covered her face, lowered her head, and spoke with a heartbroken tone, “Yes, unfortunately, I devoted my heart to the bright moon, but alas, the moon—”

“Sorry.” Before Wen Yu could finish, a warm hand descended on her head. The man’s deep voice, tinged with a hint of laughter, said, “It’s Big Brother’s fault. I didn’t dislike you; I just didn’t know what to do when you looked unhappy.”

Wen Yu puffed up, “Comfort me! Can’t you even do that?”

She said it as if it were obvious. The person patting her head fell silent for a moment, then said, “Not very good at it.”

Apart from the person in front of her, not even his mother had comforted him before. It was indeed a bit challenging, especially with Wen Yu looking like she didn’t want to talk to him. He was afraid that if he said something, she would get even angrier.

Although Jiang Yunyan guessed that he had never been in love,

Listening to him say that, Wen Yu couldn’t help but feel a sense of joy. Despite almost breaking character during this commotion, with the tension easing, she reluctantly said, “Fine, let it go this time. But remember, when you’re coaxing someone, cater to their preferences.”

For example, she likes to eat and enjoys money. Coax her with good food or money, and you’re good to go!

If it were another woman…

Wen Yu subconsciously thought of that runway goddess, quickly shook her head, and dismissed the thought.

Jiang Yunyan nodded seriously, glancing at his phone, confident that he hadn’t made any mistakes in those two steps.

At this point, the car was approaching the entrance of the Xiao family estate.

About a hundred meters away, Wen Yu could already see the three-story ancient-style building brightly lit in the distance. It seemed this was the place.

They were about to meet Jiang Yunyan’s friends.

Wen Yu suddenly felt a bit nervous, as if meeting in-laws, and immediately wanted to rant about this strange illusion.

She looked at the person beside her and tugged at his sleeve.

Jiang Yunyan looked over, “What’s wrong?”

Wen Yu stared ahead, moved a bit to the right, and said in a hushed voice, “Big brother, should we show a bit more affection in front of your friends?”

Jiang Yunyan’s eyes sparkled. With a reserved yet slightly faster pace, he said, “Sure.”

Wen Yu understood.

Although the specifics of a marriage are known only to the individuals involved, in front of others, they should display a positive image. It just so happened that she wanted to do that too.

She smiled confidently, ready to see her performance!

—

The car soon stopped.

Wen Yu sat still.

On the other side, Jiang Yunyan got out of the car first.

Having heard the commotion, Xiao Qiyun and Qin Zhou, standing at the entrance, eagerly watched. However, it was evident that the door on the woman’s side remained still, and the other side got out first.

Qin Zhou touched his chin, “What’s going on? Is Wen Yu throwing a tantrum?”

Xiao Qiyun shook his head, “Probably not.”

As they spoke, Jiang Yunyan walked around the front of the car, ignored the two of them, and went to the other side, personally opening the car door.

Both of them: “?”

Then, a fair and slender wrist extended from inside.

The usually serious, work-focused man smoothly held it, and his other hand, above the car door, blocked a bit. When the others disembarked, that hand went to the woman’s waist, all movements natural and smooth. The onlookers: “???”

They exchanged glances, whispering, “Is this still A Yan? Possessed by his younger brother?”

They had witnessed their interaction in a private room at the club last time, but that was over the phone. Seeing it with their own eyes now, they couldn’t believe it.

At this moment, Wen Yu, with a subtle smile, waved away their disbelief.

Before getting out of the car, she had taken off her down jacket, feeling a chill when a warm hand supported her lower back. She smiled gracefully and elegantly stepped forward.

Noticing two handsome young men approaching, she guessed they were Jiang Yunyan’s friends and intended to stop and greet them.

But the hand on her lower back pushed her forward. She heard the person beside her say to the two men, “Let’s go inside; it’s cold outside.”

Xiao Qiyun and Qin Zhou, who hadn’t had a chance to say anything: “…”

Certainly:

Oh.

Can you believe it? Jiang Yunyan is actually a considerate husband?

Xiao Qiyu, as the host today, could only watch helplessly as the two of them left, pulling Qin Zhou, who also wanted to leave: “No, you have to accompany me. They’ve all gone in, and I’ll be left alone in the cold. Can you bear that?”

Qin Zhou: … To be honest, I can bear it. If it weren’t for wanting to see Jiang Yunyan’s little wife, who would willingly come? But being pulled, he could only endure it. Fortunately, it’s almost eight now. Wait another ten minutes, and they won’t be able to go in. The two of them rubbed their hands and continued shivering in the cold wind.

——

Wen Yu just entered the warm room from the cold outside and immediately livened up, curiously looking into the hall. Many guests had already arrived at this point. The couple from the Xiao family was warmly welcoming guests. Seeing them, Xiao’s family also came over to greet: “Yan is here, and this is the little fish, right? It’s really becoming more and more obvious. You and Yan are truly a perfect match. Any good news soon?” Saying that, they glanced at Wen Yu’s belly. Although privately they weren’t optimistic about this seemingly joking couple, they wouldn’t show it in front of others. Moreover, the way these two entered, they really seemed to get along well. If that’s the case, the child should be coming soon.

Wen Yu smiled awkwardly, greeted people according to seniority, and then looked at Jiang Yunyan. Jiang Yunyan understood and took over the conversation: “Uncle and Aunt, hello. Brother Xiao just had a daughter not long ago. Now with a son and a daughter, four generations under one roof, that’s truly good news.” Talking about this, the Xiao couple couldn’t stop laughing: “Indeed, quite promising. With a son and a daughter, your uncle and I don’t have much to worry about now.” “No wonder you look so radiant.” Jiang Yunyan said. Although his tone was plain, his voice was steady. Even when saying pleasant words of blessing, it felt exceptionally sincere. The Xiao couple became even happier, chatting with Jiang Yunyan for quite a while before going to greet other guests. Before Wen Yu could catch her breath, the host of the ninetieth birthday, leaning on a cane and supported by his eldest grandson, appeared. Everyone immediately stopped talking and looked over with envy. Ninety years old, looking physically healthy and hearing that he had no major illnesses, now with four generations under one roof and grandchildren having children, the old man smiled with eyes almost closed but still vigorous in speech. Standing on the stage, he thanked the guests for coming to celebrate his birthday, urging everyone to eat and drink freely, ensuring they have a joyful time. People of their generation, regardless of their background, had experienced some hardships. Eating and drinking to their heart’s content was their biggest wish. Everyone applauded, and then various dishes, pastries, and drinks were brought in by waiters. The atmosphere heated up.

Wen Yu looked around and found only a few familiar faces. Wei Ningning and her friend were there, and as their eyes met, the two quickly waved at her. Wen Yu also greeted them with a smile. Then she saw a few people not far away who had been rude to her before—both men and women. They happened to look over, but unlike their previously arrogant and sarcastic attitude, now they looked at Wen Yu with a sense of dread. Who would have thought that the orphan staying at the Jiang family, the tagalong despised by Jiang Yunjin, would actually marry into the Jiang family, and to Jiang Yunyan of all people. The heir of the Jiang family, as solid as a nail!

——

Before, deliberately uttering those unpleasant words to tease Wen Yu, Qi SiLiu trembled in her heart as Wen looked over, hastily avoiding eye contact and gripping the arm of the person beside her. “What do we do? She’ll surely hold a grudge!”

Jiang Ying impatiently pulled her hand away, “Can’t you have some decency? What are you afraid of?”

“What if she complains to Jiang YunYan? We’ll be in big trouble!” Qi SiLiu’s mind went blank at the thought of that scenario.

Initially, those words stemmed from jealousy, a result of her inferior situation compared to Wen Yu. Despite her family’s decent conditions, those attending the banquet were generally well-off. However, compared to the Jiang family, they still fell short.

With numerous sisters at home, none from the same mother, and not easy to get along with, she had less pocket money per month than the lonely Wen Yu. At that moment, driven by dissatisfaction, they all engaged in a heated exchange of words, taking it too far.

Once spoken, they regretted it, but those words couldn’t be taken back.

Unexpectedly, Wen Yu remained silent, leaving discreetly. From then on, she rarely appeared at the same events. People stopped worrying until last year when rumors suddenly circulated about Wen Yu and Jiang YunYan having a wedding. Qi SiLiu and others were baffled, and their anxiety resurfaced. However, after waiting and waiting, Wen Yu didn’t show up again, and they relaxed once more.

But Qi SiLiu never expected this sudden encounter.

After she finished, a nearby guy, Qian Ze, scoffed, “Coward. With Wen Yu’s temperament, she wouldn’t dare complain. We all know the ugly things she’s done. The Jiang family has some reputation. If it really blew up, she’d be the one in trouble. Marrying Jiang YunYan was a smart move; she won’t bother with us over this.”

Jiang Ying chuckled and nodded, “Exactly. Now that you mention it, I have something to discuss with her.”

Qian Ze curiously asked, “What is it?”

Jiang Ying disdainfully stepped away, “None of your business.”

Qi SiLiu’s eyes sparkled, a mix of timidity and hope, “Do you really want to talk to her?”

Jiang Ying gritted her teeth, “It’s about one million five hundred thousand! I was thinking of seizing an opportunity, but I didn’t expect Wen Yu to trick me! Those idiots Wei NingNing and Yu Shi believed this crappy online drama was Jiang YunYan’s designated investment project!”

Here is the English translation with space between paragraphs:

“That’s the money she saved for a long time.

Her family situation is similar to Qi Siliu’s, and 1.5 million is just a drop in the bucket for the Jiang family. However, for them, it’s a different story.

They usually have a fair amount of pocket money, but expenses for clothing, food, shelter, transportation, and jewelry all require money. Saving 1.5 million isn’t something they can accomplish in just a day or two.

Qi Siliu is the other half of the investor. When they accidentally heard about the matter from Wei Ningning and Yu Yi, they kept it in mind.

Mainly because Jiang Yunyan was previously in the entertainment industry and was even called a bit of a financial genius. His investments in dramas, variety shows, and the like had a success rate of over 80%. There was a trend of following his investment decisions in the entertainment industry.

But at that time, they were even poorer and couldn’t keep up.

By the time they had saved some money, Jiang Yunyan had left the entertainment industry, and his investments were mostly in high-budget productions. Therefore, with their few million, they couldn’t find a suitable place to invest.

So, when they heard the news this time, they had already spent most of their money. Still, in order to invest, they managed to gather three million. Little did they know, “Accidentally Turned Into You” started airing quietly.

Compared to “Jiangnan Spring,” which aired two days earlier, the discussion was like night and day.

The negative publicity for this one filled their feeds within two days.

But there’s no need to panic.

Now is the perfect time. Since Wen Yu has come forward, why not take the opportunity to get back their money?

Seeing this, Qi Siliu quickly pulled her, “I’ll do the same.”

“Fine.” Jiang Ying thought it would be good to have one more person. She sent a message, asking for the contract to be quickly delivered, to settle things at the banquet as soon as possible.

To avoid this small play causing more trouble, Wen Yu might not want to be a scapegoat later.

—

Wen Yu felt like these two girls were plotting something.

She glanced at them but couldn’t figure out what.

At this moment, Xiao Qiyu and Qin Zhou also came over, accompanied by a young man.

Jiang Yunyan introduced Wen Yu to everyone, and the last person was named Cheng Yan. They were of similar age, and their fathers were business partners. They had known each other since childhood, attending the same school and becoming friends over time.

“Although Yanyan always looks indifferent, we don’t mind. Besides, one more person won’t hurt, right?” Xiao Qiyu said with a narrow smile, seeking Wen Yu’s agreement.

Completely ignoring the daggers shot from the side.

Wen Yu suppressed a laugh, “Seems like it.”

Jiang Yunyan’s body stiffened, lips slightly pursed.

Xiao Qiyu was even more delighted, but at this banquet, everyone spoke discreetly. He couldn’t burst into laughter and had to hold it in, his face turning red.

Jiang Yunyan’s gaze became colder.

But at this moment, Xiao Qiyu was fearless. He floated away, slyly asking, “Is Yanyan the same in bed?”

Wen Yu:!
She was deliberately teasing Jiang Yunyan.

Unexpectedly, Xiao Qiyu dared to say that!

Seeing Jiang Yunyan’s darkened face, she pretended to be shy and directly hid behind him. This time, she didn’t need to pretend; her face was already covered in a blush. Even though she felt okay inside, But she wasn’t familiar with Xiao Qiyu and the others. She made a joke about Jiang Yunyan’s banquet, feeling uneasy due to their unique situation.

Jiang Yunyan patted her back to comfort her, his gaze towards Xiao Qiyu turning icy. Xiao Qiyu found it amusing, genuinely curious about how Jiang Yunyan interacted with his sister-in-law privately. However, unable to resist, he spoke out of turn.

Qin Zhou nudged him, reminding him to focus on the road. Xiao Qiyu, looking up, caught Jiang Yunyan staring at him as if he were dead. He immediately felt a chill, regretting his impulsive comment.

“Haha…” He chuckled weakly, explaining, “I was just joking. Sorry, sister-in-law, my bad.”

“You’re so concerned about these matters; it seems you’ve been single for too long. I’ll inform Aunt about this.” Jiang Yunyan’s tone was cold and firm. “I’m not joking.”

Xiao Qiyu: !!!

Qin Zhou massaged his temples, thinking it got out of hand.

They were similar in age; Jiang Yunyan was thirty, and they were in their late twenties or early thirties. Despite looking young, pressure from elders for marriage was maddening. If Jiang Yunyan spoke up, Xiao Qiyu would have a week full of blind dates, working overtime to find a partner.

Cheng Yan coughed lightly to ease the tension: “Sister-in-law, this guy has a straightforward personality. Next time, just hit him, and he won’t dare say it again. Don’t always hide behind Yan, we finally got a chance to meet.”

Wen Yu looked at the situation as the humor dissipated, coming out with a pretense of embarrassment: “Um.”

Jiang Yunyan’s expression softened when he looked at Cheng Yan: “Originally, I planned for a private gathering. Still, as it happens, it’s Old Master Xiao’s 90th birthday, and they were eager to meet you and get acquainted.” He then looked at the three: “Isn’t there a customary gift for such occasions? Where are the gifts?”

Wen Yu’s eyes sparkled, looking forward to it: “And there are gifts?”

Internally, she couldn’t help but complain. Why does it feel like meeting in-laws? Is there even a customary gift?

Xiao Qiyu promptly said: “This kind of occasion is informal. Sister-in-law is not the main focus. Gifts shouldn’t be given casually. How about scheduling a game night sometime?”

Qin Zhou added: “Right, Xiaoyu.” He changed the address under Jiang Yunyan’s raised eyebrows: “Sister-in-law, where would you like to go or what dish would you like to eat?”

Wen Yu felt their relationship seemed good, so she didn’t pretend and said directly: “Barbecue? I want barbecue.”

The last time she had barbecue was quite some time ago, and she was craving it again.

“Perfect!” Xiao Qiyu nodded quickly. “I’m excellent at grilling. Sister-in-law, you just focus on eating. I guarantee you’ll eat your fill and bring back a bunch of gifts.”

Qin Zhou and Cheng Yan also agreed: “Barbecue is a good idea; I’m in.”

That settled it. They just needed to see if Jiang Yunyan could free up half a day.

Jiang Yunyan: “I don’t even have a full day off.”

Still, half a day was better than nothing; after all, he was the boss.

The three: “…”

Well then!

This isn’t what they agreed on. They clearly said they could meet after work!

Ah, the unpleasant face of a married man!

——

Last time we had barbecue was just the other day, and she’s craving it again.

“Sure!” Xiao Qiyu quickly nodded. “I’m really skilled at barbecue. You, little sister-in-law, just focus on eating. I guarantee you’ll be full, and I’ll send you back with a bunch of gifts.”

Qin Zhou and Cheng Yan chimed in, “Barbecue sounds good, count me in too.”

With the plan settled, they just need to check if Jiang Yunyan can free up half a day.

Jiang Yunyan said, “I’m not so busy that I can’t spare half a day.”

Even if it’s just half a day, he’s still the boss.

The three of them: “…”

Well then!

He didn’t have to be like this. They clearly agreed to gather after work hours!

Huh, married men can be quite unsightly!

—

After the discussion, Wen Yu mentioned the two people who kept glancing at her. She told Jiang Yunyan that she would grab some food to fill her stomach.

For the sake of beauty, she didn’t take a single bite.

Giving these two a chance to approach her.

After coming out all this way, she couldn’t go back empty-handed, could she?

As expected, as soon as she separated, the two who had been eagerly waiting immediately followed her.