Chapter 82

It was the hottest season of the year, and this was also the busiest time for the Cultural Troupe. They had to rehearse performances for the National Day celebration in two months.

For dancers, this was even more torturous.

The dance studio only had ceiling fans, which were useless during this sweltering season. After a short practice, everyone was drenched in sweat.

By the end, everyone was exhausted, feeling as if they had shed a layer of skin. Their bodies were sticky and disheveled, and they couldn't wait to take a shower as soon as they had a break.

Tang Zhenzhen panted heavily, continuing to practice her less-than-perfect moves after everyone else had left the dance studio.

As the lead dancer, her movements were more difficult and complex than those of other dancers, with many technical elements. Although these moves showcased her charm, they were also prone to mistakes. She had to ensure perfection before stepping on stage.

Although she was currently the lead dancer, there was always the possibility of being replaced by the understudy during this period. Therefore, she couldn't afford to relax for a moment.

"Zhenzhen, why are you still here? You've been so diligent lately."

Yang Sihui came out of the locker room, surprised to see Tang Zhenzhen still practicing in the dance studio.

Tang Zhenzhen rolled her eyes inwardly. As if she wanted to be here!

When reading the book, there was no mention of how hard the heroine worked at dancing. The story started directly from their first encounter.

While reading, all she remembered was how beautiful the heroine was, never realizing the amount of sweat and effort behind it.

Tang Zhenzhen had learned dance when she was young but gave it up early.

She didn't expect to have to pick it up again here. The intensity from her childhood now seemed like child's play.

Even though this was a world within a book, life still progressed day by day, just like in reality. Learning things required gradual effort.

Her little bit of foresight was useless in dance. Talking about it without practicing wouldn't work; even posing would reveal her inadequacies.

"Look at what you're saying, as if I used to be lazy."

Yang Sihui smiled, "Tell that to the director. She's most upset that you have such talent but love to slack off. Only someone as lucky as you can be so carefree."

In the past, Tang Zhenzhen was always the last to arrive and the first to leave, avoiding practice whenever possible.

Yet, despite her laziness, she was naturally beautiful and talented, never falling behind and always performing well.

This made Yang Sihui envious. While dance valued hard work, talent determined one's ceiling.

No matter how much harder she worked compared to Tang Zhenzhen, she could never reach her level and remained an ordinary dancer, unable to become the lead or principal dancer.

"If I were truly lucky, I wouldn't have to work so hard. I'd just casually dance and secure the lead role."

Tang Zhenzhen was unconvinced, not considering herself lucky.

If fate truly favored her, she wouldn't have to worry about being replaced by the understudy on National Day.

And that person shouldn't be able to return, staying in the countryside forever!

Yang Sihui felt uncomfortable hearing this and quickly changed the subject:

"Zhenzhen, I heard your sister from the countryside is coming tomorrow?"

Hearing this, Tang Zhenzhen's mood worsened.

Her current efforts and worries about being replaced were secondary. The main reason was the original heroine's return!

After enduring for years, Tang Zhenzhen's sole motivation in this backward era was meeting her favorite male lead.

But she never expected that just as the time for their first encounter approached, the heroine would return to the city.

Could the plot's destiny not be defied, and would the deviated path return to its original track?

If so, all her years of hardship and waiting would be in vain.

Thinking about this, Tang Zhenzhen felt even more motivated.

With a smile, she said, "Yes, I'll soon have a sister to pamper me."

The Cultural Troupe and the Machinery Plant were separate entities, with some distance between them.

However, some members of the Cultural Troupe came from the Machinery Plant and didn't get along with her. Thus, news of her family's situation spread throughout the troupe.

In the initial days, Tang Zhenzhen clearly felt unfriendly gazes directed at her.

People often whispered sour remarks in her ear, implying she was occupying someone else's place.

Tang Zhenzhen didn't care about these comments, but the idea of the real daughter returning and the fake one stepping aside hurt her deeply.

Determined not to let them win, she continued acting like a princess.

Her brothers took turns escorting her home or back to the troupe, showing even more concern for her.

This gradually silenced the gossipers.

However, with the original heroine's return, the whispers increased again.

Yang Sihui was sent to gather information, and Tang Zhenzhen knew that any sign of reluctance would spread quickly.

Tang Zhenzhen maintained a calm demeanor, as if the switch of fates was nothing significant.

While the Tang family publicly stated they had mistakenly switched the children, people suspected foul play.

Yet, Tang Zhenzhen didn't doubt herself for being the fake daughter and continued as before.

Her frankness would make those who liked her feel that none of this was her fault and she shouldn't be blamed.

For those who disliked her, they felt that as a beneficiary, showing no concern whatsoever made her seem extremely cold-blooded.

"Are you going home today?"

"Yes, I've already taken leave from the team leader. Tomorrow, our whole family will go to the train station to welcome her. I hope that after Sister comes back, she can adapt to life in the city as soon as possible."

"Aren't you... worried at all?"

Tang Zhenzhen blinked her innocent big eyes. "Worried about what?"

"If she comes back, aren't you afraid she'll take away the love of your parents and brothers?"

"It's fine. Everything originally belonged to her. If she takes it all back after returning, it's only right. No matter how she treats me, I won't be angry; I'll only feel more heartache for her. Xiao Hui, such thoughts are not good; they're too narrow-minded and selfish."

Yang Sihui pouted.

Tang Zhenzhen didn't bother with her anymore and continued practicing for a while before stopping.

After changing into her clothes and leaving the cultural troupe, she saw Tang Jidong waiting downstairs on his bicycle.

At that moment, the girls from the dance team were passing by with basins, heading to the canteen. Seeing Tang Jidong, their gazes couldn't help but turn towards him, and some girls nudged each other with their elbows.

Tang Jidong had sharp features and a tall stature, exuding an aggressive aura.

However, wearing glasses softened his sharp appearance, adding a scholarly air and making him appear more stable without diminishing his handsomeness.

To Tang Zhenzhen, he exuded an air of scholarly rogue, his charm tinged with a hint of mischievousness.

This Second Brother differed slightly from her impression; he was even more captivating than the character described in books.

Among the three brothers, Tang Jidong's appearance was the most deceptive.

The eldest brother fit the current trend of handsome, upright men, but being overly upright made him less distinctive.

While he was highly sought after elsewhere, the cultural troupe often performed in military zones where many soldiers were similar, reducing his appeal.

Third Brother wasn't steady enough; although very handsome, he seemed too immature.

Moreover, despite his age, he still played pranks like scaring people with insects or throwing burrs into girls' hair.

Not just other girls, sometimes Tang Zhenzhen herself nearly got infuriated by her brother, wanting to give him a good beating.

Thus, whenever Tang Jidong came to pick up Tang Zhenzhen, many people looked at them enviously.

Tang Zhenzhen enjoyed these gazes and ignored those who tried to greet her.

If anyone tried to use her connection to gain attention from Second Brother, Tang Zhenzhen would ensure their plans failed.

Seeing their frustration but inability to ruin their image in front of Tang Jidong always made her want to laugh.

Once again, Tang Zhenzhen sat on the backseat of Tang Jidong's bicycle, leaving under many envious gazes.

Watching them depart, the girls had various thoughts.

"I heard the real heiress is coming back tomorrow. Do you think her brother's backseat will still be her exclusive spot?"

Mentioning this, regardless of their attitudes toward Tang Zhenzhen, the girls became gossipy.

After all, the story was too dramatic. When it broke, the "real and fake heiress" tale spread widely.

Tang Zhenzhen was always the most envied in the troupe—beautiful, talented in dance, and from a great family.

She had capable and kind parents, and three outstanding and handsome brothers.

As the youngest daughter, she was especially doted upon.

She truly had everything, living a luxurious life when others struggled to survive.

All allowances from the cultural troupe were hers, and her family often gave her pocket money.

Some girls who wanted to marry well for their beauty were met with disdain from her, who deemed it vulgar.

Who would have thought that Tang Zhenzhen, the factory director's daughter, was actually fake, and the real heiress was swapped to the countryside!

Tang Zhenzhen stole someone else's life to gain everything she has now!

Though the adults were responsible, some still found her distasteful, empathizing with the girl who was swapped.

Fortunately, the girl now knows her true identity and is about to return.

However, Tang Zhenzhen's position in the family might be threatened.

She used to boast about having exclusive rights to her brother's backseat, even future sisters-in-law needing her approval.

Now, with the real heiress returning, does she still have the confidence to say such things?

"I wonder what the real one is like?"

"How different could she be? You have relatives in the countryside too. Living in such an environment, even the prettiest girl would be worn down. My sister went to work there for only two years and aged ten years!"

"My neighbor's sister was the same. Her skin was once whiter than mine, but after returning, it's now rough and dark. Her hands are so rough they can snag delicate fabrics."

"Oh, if that's the case, wouldn't she be quite awkward in this family?"

The Tangs were known for their high looks, even Tang Jiguo and Su Rong, despite their age, remained charming.

The four children were even more beautiful, each one outdoing the other.

"The most awkward part must be not knowing how to interact with the family. If I had to live under the same roof with someone who took over my life, I'd feel uncomfortable just thinking about it."

"Hasn't that person never gone back to visit?"

"No, didn't she say she only has her current parents now?"

"Tsk tsk, what if her real parents weren't poor farmers from the countryside but high-ranking officials? Would she still say the same thing?"

The group of girls burst into laughter.

"As if! She would definitely say, 'I have two sets of parents; I can't give up either!'"

Tang Zhenzhen, sitting on the backseat of Tang Jidong's bicycle, also brought up the topic of Tang Qingqing's return.

"Second Brother, Sister is coming back tomorrow. Do you think she'll hate me? Maybe I should live in the Art Troupe like everyone else."

"What nonsense are you talking about? Our Zhenzhen is so kind and lovely; who wouldn't like you? We're a family, and we should be together."

"But..."

"No buts."

Tang Zhenzhen chuckled softly. "Second Brother, if I argue with her, whose side will you take?"

"You won't argue. You're so kind and good-tempered; there's no way you'd fight."

"What if something happens?"

"There won't be any such thing."

"Oh, I'm just saying hypothetically."

"Of course I'll be on your side."

"Really?"

"Has Second Brother ever lied to you?"

Hearing this, Tang Zhenzhen smiled happily.

Upon returning to the Machinery Plant, they once again drew attention.

It was impossible to keep Su Rong's leave a secret, especially since it had been mentioned before. Everyone knew that the real daughter of the plant manager was returning tomorrow, while the impostor would remain a Tang.

People felt there would be a show to watch, and every time they saw Tang Zhenzhen, their expressions subtly changed.

Without words, they understood each other's thoughts.

Looking at the graceful Tang Zhenzhen, everyone couldn't help but wonder what the real daughter looked like.

"A country girl, no matter how pretty, would still look rustic compared to our city-bred beauty here."

"That's true. The real one probably doesn't even know what face cream is. This one uses imported products!"

The Machinery Plant occasionally sent people abroad for training or work exchanges. Every time someone went overseas, they would bring back items for Tang Zhenzhen.

Tang Zhenzhen had always been the prettiest girl in the plant. Not only did she have good looks, but she was also skilled at dressing herself.

While others worried about fabric coupons, her wardrobe was overflowing with clothes.

She was particularly adept at styling her hair differently and loved having tailors modify her clothes, making them unique and attractive. Many girls later imitated her style.

After being imitated, she would design new outfits, ensuring she always stood out.

Plant Manager Tang always promoted a simple lifestyle, but he made an exception for his youngest daughter.

However, everyone understood that he only had one daughter and had only brought her to live with him when she was nearly four years old, so spoiling her was understandable.

Who would have thought she was an impostor?

"This is going to be quite a show. If the real one has a bad temper, oh boy, it's going to be a mess."

"Will the girl from the countryside even know how to read?"

"How could she not? I heard she's going to start high school soon."

"That's good, otherwise Plant Manager Tang and Chairman Su would be in trouble."

"Well, she's a girl, so finding a good match shouldn't be too hard."

"But growing up in the countryside, in a remote village, who knows what she's like? I heard she's as dark as coal and dresses sloppily."

"Oh, a dark-skinned girl—how can she be pretty!"

As Tang Jidong and Tang Zhenzhen approached, the chatting group immediately fell silent and greeted them warmly.

"Zhenzhen, Jidong, you're back. Your mother is bringing her back tomorrow, right? How wonderful, the family will finally reunite."

The two smiled at them, ignoring the earlier conversation.

One person, unable to hold back, said, "I wonder if she looks anything like you. Is she as pretty as Zhenzhen?"

Tang Zhenzhen smiled. "Family resemblance isn't just about looks."

"Hey, am I getting old and blind? Look, isn't that the third child of Chairman Su and Plant Manager Tang?"

Tang Zhenzhen and Tang Jidong froze and quickly looked over.

"It's really them! Is the girl beside them the real daughter of the factory director? Oh my, how beautiful she is!"

"Goodness, she must be the prettiest child in the family! How do they even give birth to such beauty! I'll have to bring my daughter-in-law over more often; maybe my grandson will turn out better too."

Tang Zhenzhen also saw Tang Qingqing, and her smile froze on her face.

It was completely different from what she had imagined. The girl who used to be messy and timid now looked entirely different.

The long journey hadn't affected her appearance at all; she still looked vibrant and lively.

Her hair was flatter than 'Zhang Shuping's,' exposing her forehead with no design at all, yet her superior bone structure not only didn't detract from her beauty but accentuated her striking features.

Her eyes were even brighter and more spirited, giving her an energetic presence.

Her skin wasn't as fair as described in the novel, but her slightly darker complexion did not diminish her beauty; instead, it made her shine like the sun.

She was nothing like the frail beauty described in the original story, yet she remained just as stunning.

Living in the countryside for years hadn't made her look rustic; instead, she exuded a simple and genuine charm.

This was completely unexpected for Tang Zhenzhen, far from what she had anticipated.

The protagonist's transformation was too drastic! Could she also have come from another world?

This thought filled Tang Zhenzhen with fear. If she could cross over and become the main character, then another person crossing over would make her a supporting character.

"Mom, Third Brother, why did you come back today?"

Tang Jidong hurried over, and this call brought Tang Zhenzhen back to reality.

Tang Zhenzhen quickly composed herself and put on a bright smile, rushing over.

"Qingqing, do you remember me?"

Tang Zhenzhen reached out to hold Tang Qingqing's hand, acting affectionately.

Since their names had been with them for so long, they didn't plan to change them, avoiding unnecessary trouble.

Tang Qingqing subtly pulled her hand away and nodded slightly at her.

Tang Zhenzhen pursed her lips, looking disappointed, but quickly smiled again.

"Let's go home first; it's too sunny outside. You must be tired from the journey."

Tang Zhenzhen tried to help Tang Qingqing with her luggage but was refused.

Tang Zhenzhen bit her lower lip, looking helpless as she gazed at Su Rong and Tang Jidong.

Tang Jidong gave her a reassuring look, and Tang Zhenzhen quickly smiled again, though her eyes were slightly red, making her look pitiful.

However, everyone couldn't say much about Tang Qingqing and could only offer silent comfort.

Many people came out to see the commotion, curious about what the real daughter looked like.

Seeing that Tang Qingqing was very beautiful and showed no signs of awkwardness or timidity typical of someone from the countryside entering the city for the first time.

When people greeted her, she responded with a natural and warm smile, which was very pleasant to see.

"True to being the daughter of Director Tang and Chairwoman Su, she carries herself with grace and poise, regardless of where she grew up. She's truly different from ordinary people."

These words were clearly meant as flattery, but they sounded harsh to Tang Zhenzhen's ears.

She forced a smile, trying to get closer to Tang Qingqing and bridge the gap between them.

If they had a good relationship, the false daughter's reputation would gradually fade.

But Tang Qingqing showed no interest, not even putting on a facade, unafraid of being disliked upon entering the family.

In the original story, the protagonist was known for being soft and wouldn't embarrass others.

This made Tang Zhenzhen dislike the protagonist, finding her too weak and often not retaliating when wronged, which was frustrating to watch.

Although those who caused trouble usually faced bad outcomes, the protagonist herself seemed too powerless.

But now, the protagonist had become so assertive, which was completely unexpected.

Tang Jixue not getting into a top university as in the original story had also made Tang Zhenzhen anxious, fearing that her actions might have altered the plot and changed everyone's future.

But at the time, she didn't take it seriously, believing that capable people could succeed regardless of their path. Starting business early might even lead to becoming wealthy sooner.

Going to college wasn't that important; many college graduates ended up working for high school dropouts.

However, when Tang Zhenzhen noticed the changes in Tang Qingqing's personality, she felt uneasy.

The uncertainty of the future made her feel insecure, as if her uniqueness was fading away.

Tang Qingqing didn't care about Tang Zhenzhen's internal drama. Her time was precious, and she had no intention of wasting it on such people.

Unless provoked, Tang Qingqing wouldn't take any action.

Tang Jidong was very curious about his sister, especially after hearing Tang Jixue explain why they returned a day early, which intensified his curiosity.

He even forgot about Tang Zhenzhen's minor annoyance, focusing solely on gathering information.

Back at home, Su Rong introduced Tang Qingqing to the household and led her to her own room.

"You'll be staying here. There's a desk and bookshelf for your studies. Let us know if you need anything else."

This room used to be Tang Jidong's. It faces south and is only slightly smaller than Tang Zhenzhen's room.

The largest and best-oriented room upstairs belongs to Tang Zhenzhen. Her room also has a small balcony, making it spacious and comfortable.

Logically, Tang Jidong and Tang Jixue should share the larger room, but Tang Jixue's room is not only small but also poorly oriented, making it gloomy.

Tang Jidong was worried that his younger sister, who grew up outside, would be unhappy if she were placed in such a room upon her return. Therefore, he voluntarily gave up the larger room and opted to bunk with Tang Jixue.

Since entering the house, Tang Qingqing has been observing everything. The place looks quite different from what she saw in her dreams. Many of the furnishings are not present in her dreams and do not match the current popular styles.

"Everything is fine now, thank you."

Su Rong sensed her politeness and sighed inwardly.

Tang Qingqing noticed Tang Zhenzhen's coldness toward her. She had initially thought it was just talk, but it turned out to be true.

Back when they were young, Tang Qingqing always followed Tang Zhenzhen around, relying on her heavily. Now their relationship has become so strained.

Tang Jianguo was surprised to learn that Su Rong and the others had returned a day earlier. He hurriedly finished his work and rushed home.

On his way out, he didn't forget to remind his eldest son to come home tonight.

It was Tang Qingqing's first day back, and no matter how busy he was, he needed to stop working to show his importance.

Tang's eldest brother is a key technical staff member and works tirelessly every day, often eating meals brought by others from the canteen while squatting at the workshop entrance, discussing matters as they eat.

After a few quick bites, he would continue working inside.

Overtime is a regular occurrence, and by the time he finishes work, it's already late, so he heads straight to his bachelor dormitory.

Therefore, even though he is a worker at the factory, he rarely has time to go home.

When Tang Jiquan heard the news, he looked hesitant.

The worker who delivered the message said, "What's there to think about? Hurry back! Things aren't as tight now; taking a short break won't affect operations."

"I'm not considering that."

"Then what are you thinking about?"

"Forget it; you wouldn't understand."

Tang Jiquan pulled off his gloves and walked out.

The worker was displeased. "We're buddies, yet you keep me in the dark. You know this will make me lose my appetite."

"What if I bring Xiujuan back with me now?"

The worker, named Li Wei, is Tang Jiquan's colleague and friend, so he knows many things about him.

Upon hearing this, Li Wei couldn't help but stare in disbelief: "Have you lost your mind!"

Wang Xiujuan is one of the few female welders in the factory. Despite being young, her skills are exceptional, and many senior welders believe she could reach the level of an eighth-grade welder in two years.

Wang Xiujuan comes from a poor family and started as a temporary worker. She worked hard and was promoted to a full-time position.

Tang Jiquan admires Wang Xiujuan, and they have mutual feelings, but they haven't made their relationship official.

Li Wei knows about this and introduced them.

He once heard about a talented female welder and went to see her. Finding her interesting, he introduced her to Tang Jiquan.

Over time, they developed feelings for each other.

However, Wang Xiujuan's family background is very poor. She didn't finish middle school and has several dependents.

As the son of the factory director, Tang Jiquan fears his family might disapprove due to their mismatched backgrounds.

Li Wei, a neighbor of the Tang family since childhood, understands their situation well.

Even in modern times, where feudal customs are less emphasized, many still value family background.

"You can't do this. Bringing Xiujuan back now will only make your parents more resentful. No one likes being forced into acceptance."

"Given our family's complicated situation, adding another issue won't help. Your biological sister is already difficult enough according to your parents. Are you trying to make their lives harder?"

Tang Jiquan fell silent.

Li Wei patted his shoulder. "We need to think this through carefully. Don't rush."

"But this is unfair to Xiujuan. She deserves better treatment."

"You can't create trouble now. It's better to have Zhenzhen speak to your parents. If that doesn't work, having another sister might soften their stance."

"Zhenzhen doesn't like Xiujuan."

Li Wei was surprised. "That can't be true. Zhenzhen is friendly to everyone. Why wouldn't she like Wang Xiujuan?"

Tang Jiquan didn't say anything. He hadn't noticed any dislike from Tang Zhenzhen, who always greeted Wang Xiujuan politely.

But Wang Xiujuan sensed something. Even before their relationship was confirmed, Tang Zhenzhen seemed to sense something and kept inserting herself between them, preventing any interaction.

Tang Jiquan did not think Tang Zhenzhen was that kind of person, but he also knew that Wang Xiujuan was not the type to indulge in wild fantasies.

"If you bring Comrade Wang Xiujuan back at this critical moment, it will be very awkward for the real daughter. You're just adding another person to witness Tang Zhenzhen's embarrassment. She won't hate you; she'll only hate Comrade Wang Xiujuan."

Tang Jiquan ultimately gave up on this idea and went straight home.

When he saw Tang Qingqing, like everyone else, he was quite surprised. This sister was different from what they had imagined.

Unlike outsiders, they knew how Tang Jianjun's family treated Tang Qingqing.

Being older, Tang Jiquan remembered things from his childhood and knew that Old Lady Wu favored boys over girls and was not particularly warm towards her granddaughters.

A child raised in such an environment should not be so confident and outgoing.

However, this feeling was fleeting. As family members, they naturally hoped that this sister had not been negatively affected by her environment.

Although she seemed overly calm and distant from the family, it was still better than being filled with resentment or always appearing timid.

Everyone else treated Tang Qingqing cautiously, but Tang Jixue was very close to her, praising her extensively.

The incident at the train station where she caught a human trafficker would be something he would never forget.

"Qingqing is truly amazing. How can there be such a big difference between minds?"

Tang Jianguo frowned upon hearing this. "That's too dangerous. If it were a group of traffickers, it could have been troublesome."

Human traffickers do not just kidnap children; they also abduct girls.

Tang Qingqing is so beautiful; she would be an easy target.

If a girl is abducted, her future fate would be even more tragic than that of a child.

"Dad, there were so many people around then."

"You don't understand the outside world well enough. In some places, traffickers can snatch people right off the street. There's a new method where someone claims the victim is their runaway wife, so they need to take her back."

Tang Jixue was incredulous. "How could bystanders just let someone be taken away like that?"

"Most people adopt an attitude of 'not my problem.' Traffickers exploit this mindset, so girls must be cautious when outside."

Su Rong felt it was inappropriate but still tried to smooth things over.

"The child has just returned; don't start scolding her right away."

Tang Qingqing did not feel offended. She always judged actions rather than people, and this incident indeed had some flaws.

"I admit I was careless. I will be more careful next time."

Tang Jianguo's expression softened. "I'm not criticizing your actions; your behavior saved one or more families, which is commendable. But as your father, I am more concerned about your safety."

Tang Qingqing remained silent.

Tang Jianguo and Su Rong exchanged glances, both feeling somewhat downcast.

Later that night, they discussed the matter.

Su Rong sighed. "This child still hasn't called us Mom and Dad. On the way here, she wasn't close to me either."

Though there was no animosity or rejection, it still felt strange.

She was their child, and even though they already had a daughter, she could not be replaced.

"Let's take it slow. She's grown up now, and we can't force anything. The ones who harmed her got off lightly; she must feel very upset."

Su Rong mentioned Old Liu and Wang Heizi. "That old man genuinely cares for Qingqing. He didn't prepare any gifts this time."

"In a few days, see if you can send him some supplements. We don't know how to treat our child well, but showing kindness to those who care for her might help mend the relationship."

"Alright." Su Rong nodded. "And what about Wang Heizi? Do you think they really have nothing going on?"

Though they insisted they were siblings, their closeness made her wonder.

"Whether they have something going on or not, we shouldn't interfere. They weren't raised together, and good intentions could easily turn into grudges. That boy doesn't seem bad, and if they want to be together, we shouldn't meddle."

"But his business methods, while profitable, are too unstable."

"Why worry so much? They are apart now, and Qingqing still needs to study and go to university. Marriage is years away, so there's no need to fret."

Su Rong sighed. "As children grow up, their marriages become a concern. We fear they might act impulsively! At their age, they don't fully understand things."

"That educated youth seems nice. He's studying at Renmin University now. If Qingqing ends up with him, I wouldn't worry so much."

Tang Jianguo laughed. "You haven't even met him, yet you speak so highly of him."

"How bad could he be? He's a top student at Renmin University!"

Tang Jianguo was less concerned about his children's marriages and more preoccupied with another issue.

"Qingqing hasn't spoken to Zhenzhen all day. I saw Zhenzhen looking very sad, but we can't say much to Qingqing. Tomorrow, comfort Zhenzhen more. Didn't she want a dress earlier? You kept saying the fabric was too expensive, but this time, agree to it."

Thinking about this, Su Rong felt a headache coming on.

Both daughters were dear to them, and she didn't know what to do.

"Are we spoiling Zhenzhen too much? How many dresses has she made this summer? Qingqing's luggage was so sparse; the money we sent her probably wasn't used much."

"You said girls should just look pretty and be happy, and those clothes do make her look nice."

"That's true, but it's too expensive."

"If we can complete this project, there will be a substantial bonus. Fulfilling her small requests shouldn't be a problem."

"Are you talking about money? I'm worried about what kind of man would be suitable for her to marry. Will she be seen as too extravagant and only good at dressing up, but nothing else?"

Tang Jianguo had already started yawning. "Find someone older and more stable, someone who will treat her like a daughter. Ideally, they shouldn't live with his parents, so there's no need to worry about being bossed around."

Su Rong, exhausted from continuous travel, noted this matter in her heart but didn't say anything further. She turned off the light and lay down.

In the new environment and room, Tang Qingqing was not as calm as everyone thought she would be.

Sitting on a chair, gazing out the window, she felt everything seemed unreal.

Although her body was tired, her mind was alert.

So she decided to write letters to Zhai Hongyi, Wang Heizi, and her master.

The letter she wrote to Zhai Hongyi was the longest, expressing her unease with the new environment.

"I feel that Tang Zhenzhen has been testing me. The questions she asks are very strange. She mentioned things like 'QQ,' 'Alipay,' 'Pinduoduo,' and Singles' Day, terms that seem out of place. When I expressed my confusion, she thought I was pretending."

"I sense that she has many secrets. I increasingly believe that she knew about the switch back then and was involved in it."

"Although sometimes I feel fortunate about the switch because I met you, Wang Heizi, and my master, it doesn't mean I forgive them."

"Everyone should be held accountable for their actions."

"I want every person involved to receive the punishment they deserve. What should I do?"