Chapter 56

“Niece Shen, what do you say? Gambling with shares was your own suggestion.”

Hu Zhiyuan was too lazy to argue with Gu Tingyu any further. He simply turned to Shen Lihuan, his eagle-sharp eyes gleaming with intensity. If she dared to go back on her word, she might just freeze under his cold gaze.

Shen Lihuan curled her lips into a playful smile. “Of course, I stand by my words. How about this? To ensure our bet today is legally binding, let’s invite a lawyer to draft a formal agreement. If I lose, I will willingly transfer 5% of my shares in Jialan to you, Hu Zhiyuan, without any compensation. Likewise, if Yunle loses, you must transfer 5% of your Hu Corporation shares to me without compensation.”

“Good! Straightforward!”

Hu Zhiyuan clapped his hands, his eyes flashing with excitement. “I’ll call a lawyer right away.”

At this moment, Jun Ruyu, who had been watching the scene unfold, leisurely sat up straight and walked forward, twirling a folding fan in her hand. “Such a big gamble can’t do without me. I’ll provide the lawyer and act as your witness!”

Shen Lihuan turned her gaze toward the speaker. She was a young woman full of charm, her lips naturally rosy without makeup, and her eyebrows elegantly dark. She wore a sleeveless, moon-white dress that revealed a pair of slender, well-proportioned legs.

Hu Zhiyuan’s expression shifted slightly upon seeing her, but he quickly regained his composure and smiled. “So, it’s Miss Jun from the Jun family. Since this is your family’s territory, having you as a witness is ideal.”

The entire trading center belonged to the Jun family, so it wasn’t surprising that Jun Ruyu was here. As long as she didn’t interfere, Hu Zhiyuan had no reason to be hostile.

The Jun family?

Shen Lihuan thought to herself. So, she must be Jun Ningjing’s eldest daughter, Jun Ruyu. It was said that Jun Ruyu had been involved in Jun Yue Group’s affairs from an early age and had become vice general manager at just eighteen, astonishing everyone with her abilities.

“Sister Jun’s reputation is well-known. With you here, I don’t have to worry about Uncle Hu going back on his word.”

Since her father had mentioned that the Shen and Jun families had a good relationship—being part of the three major families that advanced and retreated together—calling her “Sister” didn’t seem inappropriate.

“Oh my, Little Sister Shen has such a sweet tongue. I like it.”

Jun Ruyu had grown up watching her two mothers in a loving relationship, so, like them, she also preferred beautiful young women.

Although Shen Lihuan’s striking features fit her aesthetic, Jun Ruyu had a preference for older women. She only saw Shen Lihuan as a younger sister from a prestigious family.

However, when she noticed the wary look in You Changqing’s eyes, her playful side emerged, and she deliberately made her words sound more ambiguous. Sure enough, You Changqing’s reaction was even stronger.

The moment You Changqing saw Jun Ruyu, she became alert. Jun Ruyu’s facial features might not be as exquisitely delicate as hers, but her mature and alluring aura was something a young girl like You Changqing couldn’t compare to. Even though she knew that Lihuan only had eyes for her, she couldn’t help but feel a sense of crisis—especially since Lihuan had been staring at Jun Ruyu for so long.

Shen Lihuan keenly sensed her little thoughts. She turned to hold You Changqing’s hand and lightly brushed her palm with her pinky finger.

Don’t be jealous. My heart belongs only to you.

She gazed at You Changqing with eyes full of meaning, and You Changqing’s mood instantly lifted. She couldn’t suppress the smile spreading across her face.

Seeing her bright expression, Shen Lihuan leaned closer and whispered into her ear, “No matter how beautiful others are, I don’t like them. I only like you. You have to trust me and trust yourself. I just want to be with you…”

The last few words were so soft they were almost inaudible, but You Changqing understood them perfectly. Her face flushed red in an instant. She lowered her eyes shyly and nudged Shen Lihuan’s shoulder.

Ahhh! How can Lihuan say things like this in public? But… but I’m so happy! Being with Lihuan must be… really, really wonderful.

Her thoughts drifted far away, and she blushed even more. Shen Lihuan had no choice but to wrap an arm around her waist and pull her into her embrace.

Jun Ruyu watched them being all lovey-dovey and couldn’t help but admire their high compatibility. Together, they looked like a breathtaking painting.

“Hahaha! Businesspeople value integrity—I would never go back on my word.”

Hu Zhiyuan rolled up his sleeves and laughed heartily.

Gu Tingyu furrowed his brows tightly, still trying to persuade her. “Lihuan, you need to think this through.”

“Uncle, don’t worry. Even if my parents were here, they would support me. If you’re still unsure, call them and ask if they allow me to bet my shares.”

Shen Lihuan was straightforward. She took out her phone and dialed her father’s number, signaling Gu Tingyu to answer it.

Gu Tingyu hesitated for a moment. Uncle. Lihuan was actually acknowledging him? That made him so happy!

Shen Jiashu quickly answered the call. “Hello? What’s up, sweetheart?”

Gu Tingyu nervously explained the situation to Shen Jiashu and urged him to persuade Lihuan to change her mind.

Shen Jiashu wasn’t sure why his daughter was hanging out with Gu Tingyu, but seeing how much Gu cared for her, he felt reassured. As for the bet, he fully supported her. He knew his daughter wasn’t reckless—she wouldn’t have suggested this if she wasn’t confident in winning.

“Uncle, you heard him. Dad supports me. So, can we start the jade bet now?”

Shen Lihuan tilted her head as she took the phone from Gu Tingyu.

Gu Tingyu gritted his teeth but finally said, “Since your father agreed, go ahead. Uncle will cheer for you.”

The lawyer arrived quickly. After hearing the details, he swiftly prepared the agreement. Shen Lihuan and Hu Zhiyuan both signed, while You Changqing and Jun Ruyu signed as third-party witnesses.

Yun Le blinked in confusion as he watched them quickly finalize the bet. Hey, hey, hey, wasn’t anyone going to ask for his opinion? If he really won against Miss Shen, wouldn’t she suffer a huge loss? How could he do such a thing?

“Yun Le, do your best. Whether Mr. Hu wins or not depends on you.”

Master Kang knew his little disciple had a kind heart, but at this moment, he absolutely wouldn’t allow him to go soft.

Yun Le looked at his master in distress, then at Shen Lihuan. One was his master, the other was the innocent Miss Shen. What should he do?

“Yun Le, don’t feel pressured. The competition was my idea. Just do your best—even if you lose, I won’t blame you,” Shen Lihuan reassured him kindly.

Because I won’t lose.

The little devil inside Shen Lihuan smirked cunningly.

Since the stakes between Shen Lihuan and Hu Zhiyuan were so high, many people placed their bets as well. However, not many bet on Shen Lihuan. Only those who sought high odds took a chance on her.

Master Kang was well-known, and as his disciple, Yun Le had gained some recognition. But Shen Lihuan?

Who was she?

So, it was obvious who most people would bet on.

As the host, Jun Ruyu personally presided over the jade-cutting competition. Yun Le and Shen Lihuan had thirty minutes to each select three raw jade stones, which would then be cut by the stone-cutting masters. The one with the highest total jade value would win.

Once the competition began, Shen Lihuan and Yun Le walked toward the pile of raw jade stones and started selecting.

Yun Le, once immersed in choosing, wouldn’t be distracted until he found what he deemed the best piece. His expression was serious and focused.

In contrast, Shen Lihuan was much more relaxed. Just like before, she first picked out a few promising stones based on appearance before using her ability to inspect them further.

This exhibition area had higher-grade raw jade than the previous one. Most of the stones contained jade, though mainly bean-jade and oil-green jade, which, while not top-tier, were still better than having no jade at all.

After a few minutes, Shen Lihuan spotted the best piece in the pile—a violet jade with a floral pattern. She set it aside and continued searching. Suddenly, a powerful surge of energy rushed toward her, making her pause and squat down for a closer look. In her vision, an intense, vivid green dominated her sight.

Her breath hitched. Such a stunning green—could it be imperial green jade?

Using her ability to probe inside, she confirmed that the stone indeed contained imperial green jade. Though not large—only about the size of a fist—its sheer value alone was enough to secure her victory.

This competition was already over.

Shen Lihuan made her decision and carried the three-pound stone out, placing a label marked “1” on it.

Her quick selection made the onlookers shake their heads.

A minute later, Yun Le also chose his first stone.

For the remaining two, Shen Lihuan took her time. She planned to gift them to her mother, so she searched for the most energy-rich and purest stones she could find.

By the time both had picked their three stones, exactly thirty minutes had passed. Staff weighed the stones, and after Hu Zhiyuan and Shen Lihuan paid for them, the stone-cutting began.

Shen Lihuan placed her imperial green stone at the back, letting the other two be cut first. Surprises were best saved for last.

Because her first stone was quite large, she marked three cutting lines for the stone master to follow.

Yun Le also marked his stone. The two stone masters swiftly got to work, making their cuts and pouring water over the surfaces.

Yun Le’s stone revealed green jade, while Shen Lihuan’s remained blank.

“It’s green! It’s green!”

“Yes! I bet on the little brother to win!”

The bettors who supported Yun Le cheered. Although his odds were lower than Shen Lihuan’s, no matter how high the odds, it meant nothing if she didn’t win.

Hu Zhiyuan and Master Kang smiled triumphantly. Gu Tingyu clenched his fists nervously, glaring at Hu Zhiyuan’s smug expression with disdain.

Shen Lihuan also smiled and motioned for the stone master to continue. Seeing her calm demeanor, the stone master admired her composure but still doubted the stone’s potential. He cut further, but it remained an expanse of pale white.

Hu Zhiyuan chuckled. “It seems my dear niece isn’t having much luck today.”

You Changqing shot him a glare. “The stone isn’t fully cut yet. How can you be so sure it’s worthless?”

Master Kang shook his head. “Don’t be stubborn, little girl. The stone’s only so big, and half of it is already cut—still nothing but white fluff. This stone… it’s a bust.”

“You—!”

A flash of anger crossed You Changqing’s eyes. Shen Lihuan placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder, then glanced at Hu Zhiyuan and Master Kang with amusement. “Why are you both in such a rush? The stone isn’t fully revealed yet. Everyone knows not to jump to conclusions too soon. Otherwise, you might end up slapping yourself in the face.”

Hu Zhiyuan dismissed her words as bravado, growing more confident that he was about to gain Jialan’s shares.

“Shall we keep cutting, young lady?”

Even the stone master doubted her choice.

“Keep cutting,” Shen Lihuan instructed, before turning curiously toward Yun Le’s stone. The exposed surface was a deep, striking blue.

“Is this blue water jade? It’s quite pretty.”

She rubbed her chin thoughtfully, though she still found the violet jade she had revealed earlier more beautiful.

Just then, the stone master suddenly shouted, “It’s green!”

The crowd rushed forward, only to gasp in shock. A brilliant blood-red hue, interwoven with delicate golden threads, emerged from the stone.

“Golden Silk Red Jade!”

Shen Lihuan had the remaining outer layer polished away, and soon, a palm-sized piece of exquisite Golden Silk Red Jade was revealed.

“My god, this red jade is absolutely stunning.”

Many jade enthusiasts were mesmerized by the stunning beauty of this jade. To be honest, although emerald green jade is considered the highest-grade jade, it’s also very common. In contrast, red, purple, and blue jade are much rarer. Because of this, enthusiasts tend to favor these rare, top-quality varieties. Now, seeing such an exceptional piece of Golden Silk Red Jade before them, how could they not be tempted?

Hu Zhiyuan’s face immediately darkened. In the presence of Golden Silk Red Jade, even the Blue Water Jade seemed ordinary.

Needless to say, Yun Le lost the first round.

Yun Le’s eyes gleamed as he stared at the Golden Silk Red Jade. “Wow! Miss Shen, your luck is incredible! This piece is absolutely stunning. I admit defeat.”

“Thank you for the compliment, but this isn’t just about luck—it’s about skill,” You Changqing immediately spoke up to defend Shen Lihuan.

Shen Lihuan gently nudged You Changqing’s hand, then leaned in and whispered with a smile, “Thanks for standing up for me.”

She then turned to Hu Zhiyuan, her smile deepening as she enunciated each word, “Uncle Hu, do you agree with me now? It’s best not to make conclusions too early.”

Hu Zhiyuan’s face turned green with frustration. “There are still two rounds left. I’ll return that statement to you, Shen.”

Gu Tingyu smirked in satisfaction as he observed Hu Zhiyuan’s grim expression. That’s what you get for being smug—serves you right.

Shen Lihuan looked at Hu Zhiyuan as if he were a stubborn fool refusing to accept reality. She said nothing, only smiled faintly, but the mockery in her expression was obvious to everyone. Hu Zhiyuan’s expression became even uglier.

He mentally cursed out every insult he could think of, barely managing to suppress his anger.

But things were only going to get worse for him.

Yun Le’s second piece of raw jade produced only a piece of Floating Flower Glutinous Jade.

Meanwhile, Shen Lihuan uncovered a piece of Ink Jade!

Hu Zhiyuan was already struggling to stay upright at this point. His gaze locked onto the final piece of raw jade. The one Yun Le had chosen had two parallel black python bands and seven or eight tightly clustered pine flower patterns—obvious signs of a high-quality jade.

Hu Zhiyuan pinned all his hopes on this piece.

Sure enough, it revealed a piece of Glass-Grade Yellow Jade!

At that moment, Hu Zhiyuan felt like he had escaped death. With this piece of Glass-Grade Yellow Jade, his five percent share was secured!

“Glass-Grade Yellow Jade! We’ve won!”

“Even though he lost the first two rounds, this single piece of Glass-Grade Yellow Jade is enough to turn the tables!”

“Unless Miss Shen can pull out an Emperor Green jade… but is that even possible?”

Everyone knew that Emperor Green jade was one in a million—finding even one piece among ten thousand raw jades was nearly impossible. Could a sixteen or seventeen-year-old girl really have that kind of skill and luck?

At this, those who had bet on Shen Lihuan sighed in despair, convinced that they had lost.

Only You Changqing and Gu Tingyu remained unwavering in their faith. “Lihuan, we believe in you! You’re the best!”

Shen Lihuan ruffled You Changqing’s hair. “Don’t worry. I won’t lose.”

She took in everyone’s expressions, her gaze lingering on Hu Zhiyuan’s triumphant face. The corner of her lips curled into a wicked smirk.

The greater the hope, the greater the disappointment.

Hu Zhiyuan, you’re doomed.

Shen Lihuan instructed the stone-cutting master to shave off a layer of the final raw jade’s outer shell, then carefully polish it with a grinding machine.

As the true appearance of the jade emerged, the entire room fell silent.

Jun Ruyu quickly recovered and lightly shook the fan in her hand, her eyes gleaming with admiration. It seemed she had underestimated the Shen family’s little sister. When she saw the Glass-Grade Yellow Jade earlier, she had really thought Shen Lihuan was going to lose. She hadn’t expected this girl to be so skilled—she had actually picked out an Emperor Green jade.

Emperor Green, also known as Imperial Green, was the finest and most valuable shade of green in jade.

The moment Hu Zhiyuan laid eyes on it, his eyes widened in shock. He staggered back a step and nearly lost his balance. If not for his assistant catching him, he would have made a fool of himself.

He had lost.

That was the only thought in Hu Zhiyuan’s mind.

Panic crept in as he realized that once he transferred the five percent shares to Shen Lihuan, the Shen family might use this opportunity to enter Hu Corporation’s board of directors and interfere in its operations.

As for refusing to transfer the shares? That was out of the question. If he backed out now, Hu Corporation’s reputation would be in ruins. Who would dare to do business with someone who couldn’t afford to lose?

“Uncle Hu, a bet is a bet,” Shen Lihuan said, casually twirling her phone in her hand, her tone filled with meaning.