Chapter 96: An Encounter at the Ancestral Home (Part 1)

This explained why the case was matched to her. However, her file at the research institute lacked any actual surgical records. Typically, she would need to start as an assistant and, only after gaining a sufficient amount of experience, be allowed to operate as the lead surgeon. The institute offering her the lead surgeon role outright was outside the usual protocol.

[In fact, this decision was made after careful deliberation by several of the professors at the institute. They believe that while the microsurgery involved in this case is highly complex, the risks are relatively low. It presents an excellent opportunity to showcase your skills. Of course, other professors from the institute will be present throughout the procedure to ensure that even if it doesn't go as planned, nothing catastrophic will happen.]

In essence, the patient was being treated as a test subject to display Jian Yiling's abilities. If the surgery succeeded, it would cement her reputation. If it failed, there would be no fatal consequences or significant harm, allowing the institute to maintain its credibility.

Ordinary institutions wouldn't dare to take such a bold approach, but the research institute was known for pushing boundaries. They could bear the risks involved, and this, in turn, was a testament to their confidence in Jian Yiling's talent.

[Send me the patient's records.]

Jian Yiling agreed to review the case before making any final decisions.

[Right away. I'll email it to you now.]

Shortly after, a new unread message appeared in her exclusive research institute inbox. Jian Yiling opened it to find the medical records of none other than Jian Yunzhao.

---

On Saturday morning, He Yan once again brought Jian Yujie to the ancestral home. In the past, Jian Yujie used to feel resentful about these visits. His mother would insist on him making a good impression in front of his grandparents, but he disliked the forced nature of these gatherings.

Today, however, his mood was entirely different. He had taken special care to wear the sweater that his little sister Yiling had knitted for him. It was incredibly soft and warm! The mere thought of Yiling making it with her own hands filled him with joy, as if the day had become sunnier and the skies clearer.

When He Yan and Jian Yujie arrived at the Jian family's ancestral home, they were surprised to find that Jian Shuxian and his entire family had also just arrived. This included Jian Shuxian, Wen Nuan, Jian Yunchen, and even Jian Yunzhao.

The most shocking part for He Yan was seeing Jian Yunzhao. He had actually left the house? And of all places, he had come to the ancestral home where Jian Yiling was staying?

He Yan paused, her mind quickly piecing together the reason behind the family's visit. After all, Jian Yiling had been sent to the ancestral home a few days ago, so naturally, her family would want to check in on her.

He Yan immediately greeted them with enthusiasm. "Big Brother, Sister-in-law! What a coincidence, you're here too?"

"Yes," Wen Nuan replied in a low voice, her demeanor subdued. She seemed listless, her usually elegant and dignified presence replaced by exhaustion.

The stark contrast between Wen Nuan's haggard appearance and He Yan's radiant energy was striking. Normally, Wen Nuan always carried herself with grace and poise, making it rare to see her in such a state.

He Yan couldn't help but feel a small sense of triumph. She recalled how, in the past, whenever she and Wen Nuan attended social events together, all the compliments were directed at Wen Nuan, leaving her in the shadows as if she didn't even exist. People would praise Wen Nuan from head to toe, as if every part of her was flawless.

Now, if those same people could see Wen Nuan in her current disheveled state, He Yan wondered if they would still have all those flattering words ready on their tongues.

Throughout the encounter, Jian Yunzhao kept his head down, avoiding eye contact with He Yan and Jian Yujie. He also refrained from greeting them. His presence today was the result of considerable effort by his parents and Jian Yunchen, who had spent a great deal of time persuading him. Their goal was to slowly mend the strained relationship between Jian Yunzhao and Jian Yiling. 

They hoped that by bringing him here, some progress might be made.