Chapter 1819: Kicking Someone When They’re Down

Chapter 1819: Chapter 1819: Kicking Someone When They’re Down

"If it was in the past, my Long Family naturally wouldn’t dare make such a request, but now, the Gu Family’s situation is unknown to outsiders; surely Family Head Gu should be aware? For Yuhe to marry into our family as a concubine would be her good fortune. Otherwise, once Huayu Temple falls, she might not have anywhere to stand."

"Shut your mouth. Even if my Gu Family falls, my granddaughter Yuhe will never be humiliated by others. Leave!" Gu Qingyang sternly ordered, offering tea to see them off.

"Family Head Gu, calm down. It’s never too late to think things through before making a decision." Instead of leaving, Housekeeper Wan boldly sipped his tea, unfazed.

"Indeed, Family Head Gu. Housekeeper Wan isn’t wrong. Such a big decision is worth more thought." Other elders in the room chimed in to advise.

"Family Head Zhou, Mr. He, Mr. Xie, what do you mean by this?" Xu Qingyang’s expression changed slightly at these words.

These were long-time friends, yet now they spoke in favor of the Long Family, adding to the sorrow in his already angered heart.

"Family Head Gu, I’ll be honest. Before coming here, I discussed matters with these esteemed heads. If you agree to this marriage alliance, our families will support your business. Otherwise, don’t blame the Long Family for not showing courtesy. If I’m not mistaken, the Gu Family relies heavily on some business income. Without it, what will you do?" Housekeeper Wan threatened openly.

Although expecting such an outcome, Gu Qingyang still felt a chill in his heart, glaring angrily at the family heads.

"Family Head Zhou, Mr. He, Mr. Xie, when you were in ruin, how did I plead on your behalf everywhere? Without my care in past years, would you have risen? How did you promise me back then?" Gu Qingyang gritted his teeth.

These families were once small in Tianyang City, nearly expelled before seeking help from Gu Qingyang. He relented and advocated for them, allowing them to establish themselves with the Gu Family’s aid. Now, they had grown noteworthy in Tianyang City.

The families once swore allegiance to the Gu Family, promising solidarity and loyalty, yet within a century, betrayal ensued.

"Family Head Gu, don’t be upset. We acted out of necessity for our families’ hard-earned progress." Mr. Xie responded awkwardly, feeling a tinge of guilt at breaking old vows.

"Besides, this marriage isn’t disadvantageous to the Gu Family. We’re thinking of Yuhe too." Family Head Zhou consoled himself aloud.

"Get out! Traitors, all of you, get out!" Gu Qingyang shouted, trembling with anger, pointing at them.

"Family Head Gu..." Family Head Zhou attempted again but was halted by Housekeeper Wan.

"We’re leaving now, though I wonder how long the Gu Family can last, hmph." Housekeeper Wan sneered and led the family heads out, assured the Gu Family would eventually have to yield.

Once they left, Gu Qingyang sank back in his seat, looking significantly older.

Two somewhat younger elders exchanged glances, sighing silently.

"Grandfather." Shen Yuhe’s clear voice echoed from the door.

"Yuhe, how come you’re back?" Gu Qingyang instantly perked up, looking pleasantly surprised at Shen Yuhe. Despite nearly a decade apart, he recognized his granddaughter instantly.

"I’m here with Master Priest for the ritual in Tianyang City and thought I’d visit." Shen Yuhe introduced Han Yan and others to Gu Qingyang.

"It’s an honor to have Priest Mu visit my humble abode." Knowing Han Yan’s status, Gu Qingyang swiftly stood and bowed.

"No need for formalities, Lord Gu. Though ranks differ in the temple, Yuhe and I are friends, here I’m the junior." Han Yan replied.

"Then I won’t be formal; Yuhe is inexperienced, so I entrust her to Master Priest’s care." Gu Qingyang spoke plainly.

"Yuhe cares for me more than I do for her." Han Yan, noting Gu Qingyang’s relaxed demeanor compared to Wen Gaoren, felt somewhat relieved.

"Arriving late, you’ve not dined yet. I’ll have your aunt prepare something nice. Then I’ll talk with Grandpa Tang and Grandpa Feng." Gu Qingyang asked about Shen Yuhe’s life but didn’t neglect other guests.

"Is it about the Long Family?" Shen Yuhe bit her lip.

"You heard?" Gu Qingyang’s smile faded.

"Yes, I heard. I know how things stand with the Gu Family." Shen Yuhe answered. She not only heard but received stern glares from the departing Housekeeper Wan and others, though didn’t react impulsively.

"Yuhe, rest assured, no matter how dire, the Gu Family won’t allow family to suffer such humiliation. Leave it to me." Gu Qingyang staunchly responded.

Perhaps seeing his granddaughter was a tonic, lifting his elderly, worn face with vitality.

"Grandfather..." Shen Yuhe’s eyes brimmed with tears.

Han Yan watched the two, feeling moved. She had overheard Gu Qingyang and Housekeeper Wan’s prior conversation, recognizing the common practice of familial sacrifices for interests, even a daughter. When the Gu Family faced ruin, Gu Qingyang’s firm refusal impressed and touched her.

"Grandfather, what will you do? Can I help?" Shen Yuhe wiped her eyes.

Previously unaware of her grandfather’s depth of care, now she realized even when pushed to the brink, he wouldn’t let her suffer indignity, leaving her unable to stand aside.

"No need, leave it to me." Family Head Gu paused before restating.