Chapter 36: My Little Sweetheart, I’m Here to Cherish You

Jian Shuxiang and Wen Nuan felt a deep reluctance about Jian Yiling's temporary departure, and she sensed it clearly. This situation mirrored a scene from the original story she had read, where the original Jian Yiling had a much more intense reaction—crying and throwing a tantrum that ultimately melted her parents' hearts, preventing her from being sent to the old residence. Yet, the reality was harsh; upon returning to the Jian family, Jian Yun Nao and Jian Yiling had become like two swords hanging over the family's head, their conflict intensifying and plunging the entire household into misery. Faced with such a dire outcome, Jian Yiling chose to comply with the arrangement and return to the old residence temporarily.

The following morning, before Jian Yun Cheng could even deliver Jian Yiling's belongings to the old residence, the Old Lady Jian arrived early. It was barely past eight o'clock, and Jian Shuxiang hadn't even left for work yet.

"Mom, why are you here? You could have just sent the driver, or Yun Cheng could have taken them over later," he suggested, trying to mask his surprise.

However, the Old Lady Jian ignored her son's words and walked straight into the house, making her way to Jian Yiling's luggage piled by the door. "Get this loaded onto the car," she instructed the driver.

"Mom, please don't be angry. You know that Wen Nuan and I had no choice in this matter…" Jian Shuxiang's tone was a mix of helplessness and bitterness, fully aware that his mother was upset.

"I didn't say you did anything wrong," the Old Lady replied, her expression stern and unyielding. "I understand you have your reasons, but can't I, as your mother, feel a little sympathy for the granddaughter I've raised since she was little? You two can't seem to care for her feelings anymore, but I, as her grandmother, can't even show her a little affection?"

"Of course, I know. Please take care of Xiao Ling for a while," Jian Shuxiang conceded, thinking back to how obedient Jian Yiling had been the night before, which made his heart ache slightly.

"I don't need you to worry! I'm happy to have her! Just don't bother bringing her back; let me take care of her!" The Old Lady's irritation seeped through her words.

Jian Shuxiang could only obediently accept her admonitions, though he knew he couldn't leave Jian Yiling with her indefinitely. He planned to bring her back once Jian Yun Nao's attitude had softened.

Before leaving, the Old Lady made her stance clear: "I refuse to believe Xiao Ling is that malicious. Even if she did lose her temper, I'm convinced it was merely an accident, not her true intention."

As he watched his mother leave, Jian Shuxiang felt a stirring in his heart, a mix of gratitude for her support and worry about the challenges that lay ahead for his daughter.

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That evening, the Old Lady Jian arrived early at the entrance of Shenghua High School, feeling anxious. Unsatisfied with just having the driver pick her up, she decided to accompany him personally. Even though it was still a bit early for school to let out, she couldn't contain her curiosity and concern.

"Madam, please be patient. Miss will come out at the right time," the driver suggested gently, hoping to ease her restlessness.

"You don't understand; my little sweetheart may look fierce, but she's extremely sensitive," the Old Lady replied, recalling her experience raising three sons and now having numerous grandsons. She had a keen sense for understanding children.

With a heavy sigh, she added, "If the young lady is a bit delicate, that's fine; we can nurture her in the Jian family. But I'm just worried about the unresolved tension between these two kids. Their relationship is delicate, and if not handled with care, it could lead to lasting scars."

As the minutes passed slowly, the anticipation in the air grew thick. The Old Lady's heart fluttered at the thought of seeing her beloved granddaughter, hoping to offer her comfort and reassurance. She understood that Jian Yiling needed a safe haven away from the escalating tensions at home.

After a while, Jian Yiling finally emerged from the school gates. The Old Lady's face lit up with joy as she rushed to take Jian Yiling's backpack, pulling her into a warm embrace and guiding her to sit beside her.

"My little sweetheart, I've missed you so much! It was actually me who told your father that you needed to come and stay at the old residence with me. He couldn't resist my request," she exclaimed with a smile, her eyes twinkling with affection.

"Mm," Jian Yiling nodded, choosing not to reveal the truth of the situation. She appreciated her grandmother's affection but understood the complexities surrounding her family dynamics. The unspoken tension lingered, but in this moment, she felt a sense of safety enveloping her, a stark contrast to the uncertainty she had faced at home.

As they settled into conversation, the Old Lady could feel her heart lightening with every moment spent with her beloved granddaughter. She chatted animatedly, sharing stories and laughter, trying to draw out Jian Yiling's smile.

"Let's have some tea at home and talk about your favorite things. I want to hear all about your school and your friends," the Old Lady encouraged, her warm smile radiating love and support.

Little did they both know that this temporary arrangement would become a pivotal moment in their lives, one that could potentially mend wounds and bring forth healing in their family. The Old Lady was determined to shower Jian Yiling with love and support during her stay, hoping to bridge the gaps that had formed and create a nurturing environment where her granddaughter could thrive once again.