"Meng Nianyao, my grandparents are very fond of you. I'm sure you've noticed," Gu Wencheng remarked. "Before, I didn't mind how you sought revenge on the Meng family; I allowed you to handle it yourself. However, things have changed. They adore you, and sooner or later, they'll learn about our marriage. I won't let the Gu family be humiliated."
Meng Nianyao comprehended Gu Wencheng's point but stood her ground. "So, are you suggesting I give up on my revenge? Remember, Gu Wencheng, I agreed to marry you because you promised to assist me in seeking vengeance."
"I'm not asking you to give up on it, but I want to have a say," Gu Wencheng responded firmly.
"Impossible! I intend to exact my revenge with my own hands!"
"Meng Nianyao, I'm not open to discussion on this."
As they drove back, the atmosphere remained tense between them.
Meng Nianyao felt greatly vexed. She knew that if Gu Wencheng truly opposed her involvement, she wouldn't be able to resist. But why was she the one compromising? Why should he allow others to aid him in seeking vengeance?
Upon returning to Jinxiu Garden, Meng Nianyao turned to Gu Wencheng. "Give me a little more time. I'm not willing to give up so easily."
Gu Wencheng agreed, "Fine, one month. I'll give you one month only. After that, no matter how far you've progressed, I won't allow you to continue."
Meng Nianyao frowned, aware that one month might not suffice to execute her plan. Furthermore, Meng Haotian didn't entirely trust her. Nevertheless, she also understood Gu Wencheng's concerns. After all, she was now Mrs. Gu, and Gu Wencheng wouldn't permit her to take actions that could tarnish the Gu family's reputation.
The following morning, Gu Wencheng left early. Meng Nianyao sat at the dining table, lost in thought while sipping her milk. Suddenly, her phone rang; it was Meng Haotian.
Meng Nianyao stared at her phone but didn't answer immediately. She waited for it to hang up and ring again before picking up. "Hello?"
"What are you up to?" Meng Haotian inquired. "Did I wake you up?" His voice was smooth, but Meng Nianyao felt repulsed. She put down her glass of milk and replied coldly, "No, you didn't."
"That's good," Meng Haotian said. "It's a day off today. How about we go on a date? It's been a while since we met, and I miss you a bit."
Meng Nianyao checked the time and agreed to meet Meng Haotian. During the drive, he didn't reveal their destination, and she refrained from asking. Upon arrival, she realized they were at a mountain villa.
Meng Haotian opened the car door for her, saying, "You used to love places like this, so I arranged it. The reviews are excellent, and I think you'll enjoy it."
Meng Nianyao was pleasantly surprised. "Yes, I do!"
They proceeded to explore the villa and engage in sightseeing activities. However, Meng Nianyao's mind remained preoccupied with the one-month ultimatum from Gu Wencheng. Lost in thought, she failed to notice her surroundings and stumbled over a stone, falling to the side.
Meng Haotian, who was walking ahead, swiftly turned around upon hearing the noise. "Where did you fall?" He squatted down and noticed her swollen ankle, promptly carrying her in his arms.
Meng Nianyao forced a smile but couldn't tolerate physical contact. She instinctively wanted to push him away but managed to maintain her composure and create some distance, suppressing her discomfort.
There was no doctor at the villa, so after a basic ice treatment, Meng Haotian offered to carry her again. This time, Meng Nianyao acted quickly. "I can manage on my own. There are too many people here."
Meng Haotian, experienced with women, sensed her rejection. He questioned silently why she would reject physical contact if she truly loved him. Observing her back, he grew curious.
Meng Nianyao received an X-ray at a nearby hospital, confirming her ankle was only twisted and not fractured, much to her relief.
On their way back, Meng Haotian finally broached his purpose for the day. "Nianyao, how's the progress on the entertainment city project? Besides that, are there any other projects at Gu Corporation?"
Gu Corporation was working on the entertainment city project, but Meng Nianyao wasn't well-acquainted with the company. Even if she were employed, her role would be limited to relatively simple tasks.