Chapter 44
Since there was no way to escape, then she would face it head-on.
Gu Xi silently clenched her fists.
In her previous life, she had endured ten long years to gather evidence against the Ji and Gu families—ten years of pain, humiliation, and solitary persistence. If she could make it through that lifetime, there was no reason she couldn't win this time. Opportunities weren't gifts—they were forged by will. And to protect her family, Gu Xi was willing to break any rule, cross any line.
Zhan Mingyuan, watching her shifting expressions, quietly opened a bottle of water and handed it to her.
"Xixi, drink some water."
"Thank you, Second Brother."
"What's with the 'thank you'?" Zhan Mingyuan reached out and gently tousled her hair. "You don't need to thank your brother. You look pale. Get some proper rest once we're at the hotel."
"Where do I have the time to rest?" Gu Xi said, shaking her head.
"Then listen to me—or I'll take you straight back to Jiangcheng."
The firm concern in his tone warmed her heart. She softened. "Alright, I'll rest."
—
The Datang Hotel sat in the heart of Beijing, its architecture and interior echoing a rich, classical Chinese aesthetic. From its gleaming imitation-gold brick flooring to the intricately carved eaves and painted beams, every detail exuded elegance and refinement.
Gu Xi followed the hotel's uniformed attendant down a long corridor before stopping at an elaborately carved wooden door.
"Please, come in," the attendant said politely as she opened the door and bowed slightly.
Gu Xi had spent a considerable sum to secure a room at the Datang Hotel. With its renowned decor and top-tier service, the hotel was often fully booked—especially during Beijing's peak tourist season. There were countless other accommodations in the city, but Gu Xi had chosen this one for a very specific reason.
The Datang Hotel was just across from Lanzhi Club—Ji Feiyang's favorite haunt.
In her past life, Ji Feiyang had become a regular at Lanzhi after returning to China. Though that timeline had unfolded two years from now, Gu Xi wasn't sure if he'd already fallen into the same pattern in this life. But it was her best bet. Lanzhi operated under a strict membership system—not just anyone could walk in. Still, staying close was her quickest chance of getting near him.
After showering and changing into a fresh outfit, Gu Xi stood by the window and stared at the Lanzhi Club's signage glittering in the distance. Her brows furrowed in thought. Would he show up? Was he already a member? Had he changed?
Just then, a knock came at the door.
When she opened it, she saw Zhan Mingyuan and Xiao Liu standing outside.
"Second Brother. Brother Liu," she greeted them, stepping aside to let them in.
But both men shook their heads. "No need, Xixi—we're not staying."
"Then where are you going?" she asked, puzzled.
"Brother Liu and I are heading to your brother's school to look around. Maybe we'll find something."
"But school's out for summer break. What could you possibly find?" she asked skeptically. Still, she said quickly, "I'll come with you."
"You should rest," Zhan Mingyuan said firmly. "You look exhausted. Brother Liu and I will check things out—we'll be back soon, and we'll have dinner together later, okay?"
"…Alright," Gu Xi agreed.
She hadn't completely let go of her concerns, but since she was eager to make a move toward Lanzhi Club herself, she didn't press the issue.