Chapter 2283 Mission 14

Shen Ningyu knew that openly expressing her true feelings was out of the question, but she needed to find a way to a.s.sert herself.

With a forced and uneasy expression, Shen Ningyu remarked, "I suppose Father and Mother are exceptionally generous to allow someone of your caliber to partic.i.p.ate in the compet.i.tion."

Gu Chaoyan remained unruffled, offering a calm response, "I"ll be sure to treasure this opportunity."

Shen Ningyu added with a hint of finality, "Do cherish it indeed. If you embarra.s.s yourself once more, you may not have the privilege of competing in the future Shen family events."

Gu Chaoyan replied coolly, "Rest a.s.sured, I intend to make the most of it."

Shen Ningyu let out a cold snort and decided not to engage in further argument.

She knew that after the clan compet.i.tion, she would have ample opportunities to deal with Gu Chaoyan. Shen Lianxue"s life would never be peaceful; she would forever be overshadowed by her.

Shen Ningyu moved ahead confidently, with Shen Cheng closely following, attempting to earn her favor. Meanwhile, Shen Lianxue was left behind, seemingly destined to be ignored.

Being ignored was probably the best outcome for Shen Lianxue at this point. It was unlikely that she would escape unscathed from everyone"s taunts and bullying.

Aside from Shen Ningyu, n.o.body in the Shen Family had any desire to provoke Shen Lianxue. They all knew about her affiliation with the Qian Family, and no one could match her skill in verbal sparring.

As they arrived at the Shen family clan grounds, it became apparent that the clan treated the juniors from various branches with equal consideration.

Gu Chaoyan was quietly impressed by the atmosphere in the clan.

Shen Ningyu, with an air of superiority, approached Gu Chaoyan and inquired, "Do you know why the clan is holding this compet.i.tion?"

Gu Chaoyan replied, "I"m not sure."

Shen Ningyu explained with a hint of pride, "The compet.i.tion is to decide who will represent us in the palace for the clan. I used to be the representative, and this year it should be me again. As for the Qian Family, they will undoubtedly have their own representative. Zhi"ang plans to request the emperor"s approval for our marriage when he enters the palace this year." She wore a self-satisfied smile as she spoke.

Qian Ziang stood out as the most exceptional junior within the Qian Family.

Once upon a time, he had been betrothed to Shen Lianxue, all because of certain a.s.sets held by her mother.

However, circ.u.mstances had s.h.i.+fted...

He had since broken off the engagement, and now, he wished to wed someone else-Gu Chaoyan.

In the presence of Shen Lianxue, Shen Ningyu couldn"t contain her excitement. It would bring her immense satisfaction if she could witness even a hint of anguish on Shen Lianxue"s face.

Upon hearing this news, Shen Lianxue responded with a slight nod. "I understand."

This reaction slightly surprised Shen Ningyu.

In the past, whenever Qian Ziang"s name was mentioned, Shen Lianxue would invariably be overcome with despair. But today, there was no discernible reaction from her.

"Qian Ziang, he was once a man solely driven by self- interest. Why are you so delighted to marry him now? He coveted my mother"s possessions and even swindled me out of my Cultivation Bead. Once he obtained what he desired, he abandoned me and terminated the engagement. You claim to be of value to him now, prompting his desire for marriage. Do you believe you won"t end up like Shen Lianxue after he has extracted all he wants from you? Your apparent happiness at contemplating your future is truly pitiable. I, for one, am relieved to have severed ties with such an unscrupulous individual," Gu Chaoyan commented earnestly.

Hearing these words, Shen Ningyu abruptly turned around. Her anger was evident as she confronted Gu Chaoyan. "What are you talking about? Shen Lianxue, only someone as worthless as you would have their engagement broken. I will not meet the same fate. Brother Ziang treats me and you differently, and you will never measure up to me. Do you comprehend that?"