Officialdom: The beautiful leader took me to the top

Tang Shi smiled faintly, her steps unwavering, but her voice softened, "Director Chu is too kind. In this day and age, people who can still stay true to themselves are extremely rare, whether in their careers or in the officialdom."

"My father once said that people who work hard and have a good reputation are more worthy of respect than those who have empty fame."

"If you have the opportunity, you are welcome to visit the Song family. I believe your father will be very happy!"

Upon hearing this, a hint of approval flashed in Chu Xiong's eyes.

He knew that someone of Secretary Song's rank would never pay attention to him.

Therefore, those words were definitely spoken by Tang Shi through her father's mouth.

This made him look at them with even more admiration!

Song Ci's older sister not only speaks with tact but also knows how to give him a way out. No wonder she was able to rise through the ranks in the police force and even become the deputy director of the Public Security Bureau.

Chu Xiong didn't reply, but simply nodded slightly, leading Tang Shi through the bluestone courtyard.

As night deepened, the shadows of the magnolia trees in the courtyard stretched out endlessly.

The villa's exterior resembles that of the Song Dynasty, understated and elegant, without excessive luxury decorations, which perfectly matches the aura of a young lady from a wealthy family.

Tang Shi did not personally witness the glorious days of his life away from home.

However, some clues can be gleaned from this villa in front of us.

It's not the nouveau riche air, but the heritage of a wealthy family.

As expected, even a starved camel is bigger than a horse. Even after so many years, Lijia still manages to hold a place in Handong.

As they approached the villa's entrance, Tang Shi suddenly caught sight of a potted clivia in the corner.

It's growing well, with thick, glossy leaves, clearly indicating that someone has been taking good care of it.

Tang Shi casually remarked, "Director Chu also knows how to grow flowers? This clivia is quite well grown."

Chu Xiong looked over and said modestly, "Miss Tang, you flatter me. I don't know anything about these things. It's my elder sister who likes them. I just occasionally take care of her."

"She has a quiet personality and likes to tend to flowers and plants when she was abroad."

Tang Shi did not pursue the matter further.

Indeed, Brother Chu's every word was extremely tactful, neither revealing Li Ying's current situation nor making the atmosphere awkward.

As they entered the living room, Tang Shi suddenly said, "Director Chu, we, the Song family, appreciate your kindness in taking care of Xiao Ci over the years."

"If you encounter any trouble in Handong Province in the future, feel free to contact me."

"I can't help with big things, but I'll do anything for small troubles, as long as it's just a word from Director Chu."

Tang Shi suddenly brought this up, seemingly out of nowhere.

Others might not understand, but how could Chu Xiong not understand?

Tang Shi is issuing an order to leave!

In other words, she did not want to be present or involved in the upcoming talks.

After all, Li Ying had caused a scene at the Li family's house first, and Tang Shi came today to respond on behalf of the Li family.

The conversation that follows is bound to be tense and full of hostility.

If he were present, the two sides would only be on opposite sides!

Out of consideration for the years he had taken care of Song Ci, Tang Shi didn't want to fall out with him and wanted to preserve her last bit of dignity.

Chu Xiong paused, his composure undiminished, but a knowing glint flashed in his eyes.

He looked up at Tang Shi and said frankly, "Director Tang is very thoughtful. Xiao Ci is a simple-minded child."

"We are very grateful to the Song family for their help over the years. I should be thanking you on behalf of my eldest sister."

Chu Xiong's words were quite profound and also served as a reminder to Tang Shi.

Song Ci is not only a daughter of your Song family, but also carries the blood of Li Jia.

Taking care of Song Ci is not out of respect for the Song family, but because Li Ying is Song Ci's biological mother, and it is what he should do.

In this way, they both received the respect afforded by Tang poetry and maintained their own stance.

Of course, he was indeed not able to be present for the rest of the conversation.

It wasn't that he was afraid of Tang Shi, but rather that his older sister didn't want him to be there.

Since that's the case, Chu Xiong offered a way out, "Director Tang, let's get down to business."

As he spoke, Chu Xiong stepped aside to make way for her, his tone calm yet carrying an undeniable air of authority, “My eldest sister has only been back in the country for a short time, and her personality has changed somewhat compared to before. Sometimes even I find it hard to understand her.”

"No matter what Director Tang is here for, please be lenient and don't push him too hard."

"I know I don't have that much influence, but no matter what, we're all family."

"Even for Xiao Ci's sake, let's not make things too awkward."

Chu Xiong's words were both a reminder and a bottom line.

He understood Tang Shi's purpose and knew that the conversation that followed would not be as peaceful as it appeared.

The brief but meaningful advice both protected Li Ying and demonstrated discretion.

After saying this, Chu Xiong turned and left.

Watching Chu Xiong's departing figure, Song Ci couldn't help but narrow her eyes.

No wonder he's a man from the provincial party committee compound, and no wonder the old party secretary values ​​him so much.

This Chuxiong is indeed extraordinary!

He speaks with perfect tact and can even handle every situation with perfect discretion.

Neither overstepping boundaries nor retreating.

Whatever Li Ying's purpose is in returning to China this time, having this man by her side will undoubtedly be a great advantage.

Most importantly, this man was loyal. Back then, he resolutely gave up his future for the sake of the old Party Secretary.

Now, they are protecting each other far from home, and have even been quietly contributing from behind the scenes for so many years.

Just for the favor he received back then?

It should be more than that; even if there were any favors owed, they would probably have been repaid long ago.

He turned and went into the living room, where someone quickly brought him a cup of hot tea.

Chu Xiong didn't go far. He turned around and went to the next room, found a single sofa, sat down, and casually picked up a newspaper to read.

Despite his relaxed demeanor, he acted like an invisible barrier, secretly protecting Li Ying.

It allows you to sense what's happening inside without disturbing the conversation.

This was a habit he had when he followed the old Party Secretary. Now that the old Party Secretary is gone, this protection has been given to Li Ying.

Once Tang Shi was alone in the living room, she looked around.

The reception room is furnished with mahogany furniture, and the ancient paintings on the walls also have a profound artistic conception. Even the blue and white porcelain in the corner exudes the texture of time.

Every corner of the house exudes a sense of "depth and culture".

Unlike the Song family's low-key lifestyle, the Li family's extravagance is hidden deep within, understated yet undeniably shrewd.

Even after all these years, they are still a force to be reckoned with!

Tang Shi couldn't even imagine what life must have been like when he left home during his glorious years.

Just then, a soft footstep sound came from the stairs.

The person who arrived was Li Ying, wearing a black cheongsam with dark patterns, and her long hair was tied up at the back of her head.

A white jade hairpin was inserted diagonally among them, making his eyebrows and eyes appear even more aloof.

Perhaps because she had just woken up, she hadn't done her hair or makeup.

Compared to the afternoon, it was less refined, but more dignified and experienced.

Especially when going downstairs, every step carries a condescending scrutiny, as if sizing up an uninvited guest who has intruded into their territory!