Chapter 13: Who is Pretty Sister?

"This is the Ghost Badge?" Jiang Yan asked in disbelief.

Jiang Yan held onto the Ghost badge, which shimmered in the sunlight. It was crafted from a lustrous metal with an eagle emblem meticulously designed at the back, with intricate etchings adorning its wings and talons. The badge had a weight to it, making it feel substantial and valuable.

The front face of the Ghost badge was made of polished gold, with intricate details etched onto its surface. At the centre of the badge was the emblem of the country's military, a five-pointed star surrounded by a laurel wreath. Below the emblem, the words "Ghosts of the Nation" were inscribed in bold, block letters. The edges of the badge were bevelled and gleamed in the light, giving it a sharp and distinguished appearance. It was clear that this was not an ordinary badge, but a symbol of great honour and prestige.

Jiang Yan was overwhelmed with emotion. She knew how important the ghost badge was, and the fact that Master Qiao had given it to her as a gift meant so much to her. "Old Master Qiao, I don't know what to say. I can't take this, it's too important," she said, holding the badge carefully in her hands.

Master Qiao smiled gently. "Yan Yan, you are like a daughter to me. I want you to have it. It's a small token I want you to have for the memories and the bond we share. I know you will keep it safe and cherish it."

Jiang Yan nodded, tears welling up in her eyes. "Thank you, Old Master Qiao. I will always treasure it, and the memories of our time together."

As she held the badge, she turned it over and saw an inscription of an eagle on it. She knew that only a few members of the top undercover military officers were given such badges, and the fact that she was now in possession of one made her feel both humbled and proud. She knew it was an extremely valuable asset of Old Master Qiao.

Old Master Qiao smiled at her. "I'm glad you like it. And always remember, no matter what happens, you will always have a home with me."

Jiang Yan felt a sense of comfort and belonging, knowing that no matter what life may bring, she had a place to go where she would always be welcomed with open arms. She hugged Old Master Qiao tightly, thanking him once again for the precious gift he had given her.

***

Li Ming walked into the luxurious shop with Yun Cheng holding his hand. The little boy's eyes widened at the sight of the glittering jewels and sparkling diamonds on display. "Uncle Ming, what should I get for Pretty Sister?" he asked, tugging at Li Ming's sleeve.

Li Ming smiled down at the adorable child. "Let's ask the shop assistant for some help, shall we?" he suggested, leading Yun Cheng towards the counter.

The assistant, a kind-looking young woman, greeted them with a smile. "Hello there, how can I assist you today?" she asked.

Yun Cheng spoke up. "I want to get something for my Pretty Sister," he said, looking up at the assistant with big innocent eyes.

The assistant immediately fell in love with the little boy's cuteness. "Of course, let's see what we have here," she said, showing Yun Cheng various pieces of jewellery.

Just then, the sound of high heels clicking on the marble floor caught their attention. A woman with an elegant aura entered the shop. She had perfectly styled hair and wore a designer suit that must have cost a fortune. Li Ming recognized her as Xie Alice, the eldest daughter the Xie Family and Vice President of the Xie Coorporation. She was also the in charge of the deal they were going to have a meeting for in the noon.

Xie Alice noticed Li Ming and approached him with a charming smile. "Li Ming, it's good to see you here. What brings you here today?" she asked, trying to engage him in small talk.

Li Ming kept his composure and replied politely. "Just helping my boss's nephew choose a he said, not wanting to get too involved with Xie Alice.

Just then Yun Cheng excitedly came running. He held up his selection of stones and strings, showing them to Li Ming. "Uncle Ming, do you think Pretty Sister will like this?" he asked with a grin. "I am going to make a bracelet from this."

Alice Xie immediately recognized Yun Cheng, the grandson of the Yun Family and Feng Yuansheng's nephew.

Li Ming smiled at the young boy's enthusiasm. "Yes, Young Master Yun, your Pretty Sister will definitely love it. It's a thoughtful and beautiful gift."

Xie Alice interrupted, "Who is this pretty sister?" she asked, trying to sound friendly.

Yun Cheng looked up to and saw the lady. He didn't like the vibe he was getting from her and refused to speak. Li Ming stepped in to divert the topic. "It's just a nickname he has for his cousin," he explained.

"If you could excuse us." Li Ming said politely.

Xie Alice raised an eyebrow at Li Ming's words, but decided not to press further. "Of course, I won't keep you any longer," she replied with a small smile.

Li Ming knew that she had a huge crush on Feng Yuansheng and was hoping to marry him one day. He didn't want to get into anymore small talk with her, so he quickly paid for the bracelet and led Yun Cheng out of the store.

After paying for Yun Cheng's gift, Li Ming and Yun Cheng left the shop. Li Ming breathed a sigh of relief, glad to be away from Xie Alice's presence.

Xie Alice watched as Li Ming and Yun Cheng left the shop, feeling slightly disappointed that she didn't get a chance to talk to Li Ming about his boss.

She turned to the assistant who had been helping them and asked about the watch she had seen earlier.

"I'd like to buy that watch," Xie Alice said, gesturing towards the display case. "Please wrap it up."

The assistant nodded, "Of course, Miss Xie" and went to retrieve the watch, carefully wrapping it in a sleek black box.

As Xie Alice was waiting, her mind kept drifting back to Li Ming and Yun Cheng. She couldn't help but think about how sly Li Ming was, just like his boss Feng Yuansheng. She knew Feng Yuansheng avoided her and her advances, but she was determined to win him over at any cost. He was the only one who could stand beside her equally.

She was confident that she would eventually find a way to win Feng Yuansheng's heart. With a determined look on her face, she paid for the watch and left the shop, ready to make her next move in her quest to win the heart of the man she desired.

***

Zhou Xuanzhi walked out of the classroom, feeling tired after a long day of lectures. As he made his way towards the exit, he heard a familiar voice calling out to him.

"Hey Xuanzhi, wait up!" It was his friend, Li Bo. Zhou Xuanzhi turned around to see Li Bo running towards him, a huge smile on his face.

"What's up Bo?" Zhou asked, slightly curious.

"I've got great news for you, man!" Li said, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "I know this guy who just opened up a new restaurant down the street. He's looking for someone to help out in the kitchen, and I recommended you for the job."

Zhou Xuanzhi raised an eyebrow. "Really? That's great, Li. But what's the catch?"

Li's smile faltered slightly. "Well, the pay isn't that great, to be honest. It's minimum wage, but you'll get free meals while you're working."

Zhou Xuanzhi sighed. He was in a dire state right now. He needed to start somewhere. "Okay, fine. Give me the guy's number, and I'll give him a call."

Li Bo grinned. "Awesome! I knew you wouldn't pass up a good opportunity. I'll text you the details later tonight."

Zhou Xuanzhi smiled back, feeling grateful for his friend's help. "Thanks, Li Bo. I owe you one."

Li Bo waved a hand dismissively. "Nah, don't worry about it. Just promise me you won't burn down the kitchen, okay?"

Zhou Xuanzhi rolled his eyes. "Ha ha, very funny. I'll see you later, Bo."

As Zhou Xuanzhi walked away, he couldn't help but feel a sense of apprehension. The thought of working long hours for minimum wage wasn't exactly appealing. He knew the road ahead wouldn't be easy, but he was ready for the challenge. After all, he had to start somewhere.

***