Genius Club

Chapter 161: Family

“Ji Lin?” Lin Xian echoed, surprised to hear the name.

“Are we diving into a ‘Detective Conan’ plot now? How can a detective, who rarely leaves home, really help the police solve crimes?” It seemed like a desperate move.

But…

Listening to Chu Shan He, it became clear that Ji Lin was highly respected by the Donghai Police Department for solving numerous complex cases, showcasing his significant crime-solving skills.

“The Donghai police trust Ji Lin for a reason,” Chu Shan He noted, seeing Lin Xian’s skepticism. “Ji Lin has been assisting our domestic police for some time. Previously, he was active internationally, aiding our police in several cross-border cases. The Donghai police sought his help again, and the results have been positive.”

Lin Xian stayed quiet, absorbing the information. He trusted Ji Lin’s capabilities—the Donghai police’s confidence in him was proof enough. However, Lin Xian was certain that Tang Xin wasn’t capable of deception.

Though his judgment was subjective…

Given the mysterious and unlikely circumstances surrounding Tang Xin’s death, the cause was hard for Lin Xian to believe. The main concern was Chu Shan He mentioning the police had solid evidence and identified a suspect. Where had this evidence come from?

Had Lin Xian misread Tang Xin, or was the evidence crafted so perfectly that it deceived both the Donghai police and Ji Lin?

“Sometimes, we’re fooled by illusions,” Chu Shan He sighed, continuing, “Even with my experience in business, I’ve often misjudged people. It’s inevitable. Our emotions can cloud our judgments.”

“I know it’s tough to accept what happened to Tang Xin, but the police rely on hard evidence. I haven’t seen the details myself, but I’m confident that when everything is revealed, the truth will be clear.”

“Lin Xian, it’s tragic about your classmate, but you shouldn’t feel guilty, as if it’s your fault. Life is full of such disappointments. As you grow older, you’ll face more of these situations. It’s important to move on and not dwell too much on the past.”

Chu Shan He gestured for Lin Xian to take out his phone. “Let’s exchange numbers. You saved my daughter, and I owe you one. If you ever need anything, just call me. In Donghai, there’s little I can’t handle. I’ll do my best to help you.”

Lin Xian nodded and exchanged contacts with Chu Shan He, realizing the value of this connection.

In this intricate game, Lin Xian felt outmatched, challenging him at every turn. His resources were limited; he lacked superpowers or significant influence. Winning this game would require outside help.

And in Donghai, his most reliable and powerful ally was Chu Shan He—a businessman by day and a powerful figure by night. When needed, Chu Shan He would be his trump card.

At first, Lin Xian suspected him of being involved with the Genius Club. But after Xu Yun’s death and discovering Zhao Ying Jun’s fake invitation, both Zhao Ying Jun and Chu Shan He, who had supported Xu Yun for a decade, proved to be trustworthy.

After more conversation, Su Xiu Ying and Chu An Qing brought out the food, joining them with smiles. Chu Shan He opened a fine bottle of wine, ready to share a few drinks with Lin Xian. Su Xiu Ying, grateful for Lin Xian’s help, was very hospitable.

“Lin Xian, try these ribs.”

“Lin Xian, this fish is my specialty. Have some more.”

Su Xiu Ying was an excellent cook; every dish was a treat. The steamed fish, in particular, was the best Lin Xian had ever tasted.

“It’s really good,” Lin Xian complimented sincerely after tasting the fish.

“See, I told you fish is my specialty!” Su Xiu Ying beamed, pushing the fish plate closer to Lin Xian. “I’ve always been good at cooking fish, but my family doesn’t like it much. Please, have more!”

Lin Xian smiled, appreciating her cooking skills.

“Lin Xian, I made this dish! How does it taste?” Chu An Qing asked, pointing to a slightly burnt plate of cola chicken wings. “I might have added too much soy sauce.”

“It’s good,” Lin Xian reassured her after a bite. Cola chicken wings were hard to ruin, especially under Su Xiu Ying’s watchful eye, so they tasted fine.

Chu Shan He, sharing drinks with Lin Xian, discussed everyday things, creating a warm, family-like atmosphere. Though an outsider, Lin Xian enjoyed this family vibe.

A loving home breeds success, as seen in Chu Shan He’s life. This explained why Chu An Qing was so cheerful and likable; only a nurturing family could raise such a person. Lin Xian’s respect for Chu Shan He grew as he witnessed his deep family values, despite his hectic schedule.

In Donghai, Chu Shan He held significant power, but at home, he was humble and engaging. He joked with Su Xiu Ying and let Chu An Qing tease him, playfully lamenting his low standing in the family while clinking glasses with Lin Xian.

This warm atmosphere reminded Lin Xian of Big Cat Face’s home, bringing him comfort.

“Lin Xian, are you from Hang City?” Su Xiu Ying inquired, passing him a bowl of rice.

“Yes, Auntie, but not directly from the city, from a nearby county.”

“Hang City’s beautiful,” Su Xiu Ying remarked. “I haven’t visited in years. Are your parents still there?”

“Yes, they used to work in state enterprises but retired after restructuring. Now they run a small business,” Lin Xian shared.

“Are you an only child? Any siblings?”

“No,” Lin Xian shook his head. “I’m the only one.”

“Mom!” Chu An Qing, who had been restraining herself, finally spoke up, frowning at Su Xiu Ying. “Why are you asking him so many personal questions?”

“What’s the harm in chatting? It’s not that personal,” Su Xiu Ying retorted, giving Chu An Qing a look to quiet down. She turned back to Lin Xian, smiling. “Are you seeing anyone, Lin Xian? Do you have a girlfriend?”

Chu An Qing choked on her rice at this question!

This novel is translated and hosted on bcatranslation