After Disabled A was Reborn, She Got Scummed Again - Chapter 20.2

Qin Xiao had already arrived at the Chu residence.

Meanwhile, upstairs, Chu Qiyan was already lying on bed while flipping through a book when the sudden roar of a car engine outside made her raise an eyebrow. She looked slightly puzzled but didn’t think much of it, continuing to read. After some time, there was a knock at the door—it was the housemaid.

“Miss Chu, President Qin is here. Madam asks that you go down and receive the guest.”

Chu Qiyan was visibly stunned, frozen for a moment before answering, “Alright, I’m coming.”

She quickly got out of bed and tidied herself up, changing out of her nightgown and into a long, ivory dress that draped over her slender calves. Her delicate, oval face wore no makeup, radiating a soft natural beauty.

When Qin Xiao saw her again, she was greeted by that simple elegance—fresh, graceful, and lovely as ever. But this time, something was different. Her face was shadowed with melancholy, and her eyes held a subtle weariness and sorrow.

Gone was the cheerful, relaxed girl from earlier that evening. A flicker of confusion and displeasure crossed Qin Xiao’s gaze.

Something must have happened at the Chu household—someone must’ve mistreated her.

By now, her negotiations with Chu Peng over the western land were nearly finalized.

“Well then, since we’ve discussed everything, it’s settled,” Qin Xiao said firmly, drawing the conversation to a close.

“Yes, yes, of course, President Qin,” Chu Peng replied quickly, smiling obsequiously.

“Since Qiyan and I are engaged, we should live together. You have no objections, do you?” Qin Xiao asked, her tone light, almost casual—but there was no mistaking the authority in her voice. It wasn’t a question, but a declaration.

“N-no objections at all. Of course not. You’re engaged, after all—it’s only right,” Chu Peng nodded repeatedly, bowing slightly in agreement.

Sitting between them, Chu Qiyan wore a faint smile on her face, looking like a delicate porcelain doll—silent, immobile, and obedient to the whims of the two decision-makers beside her.

Qin Xiao’s words had come as a shock. Chu Qiyan couldn’t help but look up at her in surprise. But noticing her father still present, she quickly lowered her gaze, staring at her tightly interlocked fingers resting on her knees—so tightly clenched, her knuckles had turned pale.

“Qiyan, just get along well with President Qin for the time being,” Chu Peng said, his face beaming with a warm, fatherly smile, as if he weren’t the same cold, calculating man from just moments ago.

“Oh, and about the internship program at Jingyan University,” Qin Xiao added calmly, as if stating a routine matter, “Qiyan will do hers at Qinlang Group. What do you think?”

“Wonderful, wonderful. It’s an honor for her to study at Qinlang Group. Of course, we’ll go with whatever President Qin decides,” Chu Peng replied eagerly, grinning from ear to ear.

Throughout the entire exchange, Chu Qiyan didn’t have a single say. Her father had already handed her over to Qin Xiao like a bargaining chip for personal gain.

And yet, the balance in her heart had already tipped.

Qin Xiao had asked her opinion before, but she’d tried to keep the peace like always, letting her father decide. The result? Just the same as always. How laughable. How pitiful.

So what if she wasn’t his biological daughter? Did their years of relationship mean nothing at all? Did he really see her as nothing more than a piece of merchandise to trade, forever placing profits above all?

In that moment, the last spark in her weary heart was extinguished.

To her,  the Chu family no longer meant anything.

A wave of helpless sorrow surged in her chest. She looked up, and tears welled up in her eyes as they met Qin Xiao’s.

Qin Xiao froze briefly when she saw those misty eyes filled with unspoken pain. Her fingers tapped nervously on the armrest of her wheelchair, her heart skipping two chaotic beats.

“What’s wrong?” she asked softly, a trace of concern in her brows. Was she upset because Qin Xiao had made the decision on her own? After all, she hadn’t agreed to it back when asked earlier.

“Qiyan?” Chu Peng called out, shooting her a warning glance. His face still bore a smile, but his eyes flashed with sharp intimidation.

“Nothing. Just a bit tired,” Chu Qiyan said with a gentle smile, composed and graceful once again—like a perfect porcelain doll, always showing her best face to the world.

“Alright, go pack your things. You’ll leave with me shortly,” Qin Xiao said after some thought, tapping her slender fingers as she spoke.

Everything was settled and this arrangement would be good for Chu Qiyan.

It would give her some peace of mind too. Under her protection, Chu Qiyan could finally live the life she wanted—whether she chose to stay or to leave.

So long as she truly wanted it.

Being able to sense her pheromones during everyday interactions would be beneficial for everyone involved. It was a win-win all around.

In this life, she’d finally taken the first step ahead—seizing the upper hand. Everything was now within her control.

That thought brought a sliver of relief to Qin Xiao.

Just as Chu Qiyan headed upstairs, Chu Peng stood awkwardly on the side, forcing a smile. At that moment, Chu Qian suddenly appeared in front of them.

She wore a form-fitting white gown with a touch of tasteful makeup, smiling sweetly at Qin Xiao.

“Qin-jiejie, what brings you here?” Chu Qian exclaimed in a surprised and delighted tone.

“Dad.” She followed up with a sugary call toward Chu Peng.

“Qianqian, come sit.” Chu Peng quickly patted the seat next to him—right beside Qin Xiao.

Qin Xiao shot her a cold glance but said nothing.

“Qin-jiejie, did I do something to upset you? Please tell me if I did. I didn’t mean to…” Chu Qian pouted, her voice soft and aggrieved, her eyes lowered in a pitiful display of innocence.

“You’re noisy.” Qin Xiao responded blandly, not even sparing her a glance as she sipped the tea handed to her by Assistant Liu.

“…” Chu Qiyan’s lips parted slightly, but she held her tongue.

“We’re not close. Don’t call me that,” Qin Xiao added, bluntly rejecting the fake familiarity.

“Qin… President Qin” Chu Qian reluctantly corrected herself. “Did I accidentally do something wrong? Did I make you upset? I really didn’t mean to…” Her voice was weak, eyes brimming with tears.

“You really want to know?” Qin Xiao turned her icy gaze on her, brow slightly furrowed with evident displeasure.

Even Chu Peng, who had been ready to step in and defend Chu Qian, shut his mouth and threw her a sharp side glance full of reprimand.

“President Qin… if my daughter has offended you in any way, I sincerely apologize on her behalf…” Chu Peng chuckled awkwardly, trying to smooth things over.

Qin Xiao continued sipping her tea, unbothered.

Then, out of nowhere, she suddenly recalled the incident where Chu Qian drugged Chu Qiyan. She wondered how they planned to handle that.

“Keep your petty little schemes to yourself.” Her voice turned frigid, laced with a casual warning. Her sharp, phoenix-shaped eyes shot daggers straight into Chu Qian’s heart.

Chu Qian was visibly shaken, her carefully crafted expression nearly falling apart.

“Qin-jiejie, how could you say that? Did Qiyan say something to you about me? Please, let me explain…” she stammered, tears welling in her eyes like a flower drenched in rain. It was as if Qin Xiao had wronged her, and her words subtly implied that Chu Qiyan was stirring up trouble.

Qin Xiao frowned instinctively, clearly unwilling to entertain this any further.

“Miss Chu, I’d appreciate it if you could be mindful of your words and keep quiet,” Assistant Liu said with a polite smile, her tone gentle yet firm enough to embarrass.

Chu Qian was about to speak again, but at that, she shut her mouth.

Chu Peng, seated next to her, gave her a displeased look and a silent warning to stay silent.

Chu Qian clenched her hands tightly, though she still wore that soft, innocent smile. Her lowered gaze, however, she was full of disdain, unwillingness, and confusion.

Why had Qin Xiao’s attitude toward her turned so hostile in such a short time? Chu Qian fumed.

It was all Chu Qiyan’s fault—she had to be the one who took Qin Xiao away, took everything that should’ve belonged to her. The resentment in her heart deepened once again.

When Chu Qiyan came downstairs carrying a large bag, this was the scene she walked in on—her father, Chu Peng, grinning obsequiously, while Chu Qian sat in her place with a gentle, delicate smile, as if she had completely taken her spot.

The curve of Chu Qiyan’s lips stiffened. A faint shadow crossed her eyes. So this was her good father and dear little sister.

“Let’s go,” Qin Xiao said the moment she saw her, not wanting to linger a second longer.

Assistant Liu stepped forward to push the wheelchair, and another aide took the bag from Chu Qiyan’s hands.

Chu Qiyan turned and said, “Dad… Father, please let Mother and Brother know.” She gave a polite bow and followed Qin Xiao out.

Ever since Chu Qian returned, she’d been forced to switch from calling them “Dad” and “Mom” to the more formal “Father” and “Mother”—a deliberate move to distinguish her from the true heiress.

How ironic. Over twenty years of familial affection amounted to nothing in the end. It couldn’t hold a candle to bl00d ties.

As she glanced over at Qin Xiao, Chu Qiyan realized—this was the beginning of her separation from the Chu family.

But would following Qin Xiao really lead to something better? Or was it just another swamp waiting to drag her down?

Still, now wasn’t the time to think too much. Given the situation, wasn’t pleasing Qin Xiao the smartest choice?

Besides, Qin Xiao had treated her quite well so far—even without her making an effort.

Looking at the graceful, elegant woman beside her, Chu Qiyan felt strangely at ease. It was like being trapped in a deep, inescapable pit and suddenly having a lifeline tossed her way. When you’re stuck in darkness, completely hopeless, you don’t hesitate—you grab the rope, because it’s your only chance of survival.

Compared to earlier, the streets were quieter now. Night had fallen deeper, the rainbow lights dimmed, and the occasional figure on the sidewalk only added to the sense of solitude.

Chu Qiyan sat beside Qin Xiao and turned her gaze from the window. The soft light inside the car blurred Qin Xiao’s silhouette, softening her cold demeanor and giving her a gentler air.

Watching Qin Xiao rest with her eyes closed in the warm light, Chu Qiyan couldn’t help but smile faintly.

She didn’t know why, but she actually felt relaxed around Qin Xiao. Maybe because Qin Xiao had helped her?

She wasn’t sure. All she knew was that this powerful, high-ranking woman didn’t quite match the cold image she’d expected.

Suddenly, her mind drifted back to their first meeting—Qin Xiao in a tailored, casual suit. Even seated in a wheelchair, she radiated the commanding presence of someone on a throne. She looked down on everyone, regal and distant, like an empress—unemotional and imperious. Her phoenix eyes, sharp and upturned, were so intense that Chu Qiyan couldn’t even bring herself to look a second time.

Yet for all her dominance, her skin was pale to the point of translucency, carrying a hint of fragility. But beneath that fragility was a fierce energy, like a lion lying in wait, watching its prey—ready to strike and devour at any moment.

That was Chu Qiyan’s first impression of Qin Xiao. She had only dared to glance at her twice—once in a daze, and once more, secretly, from the corner of her eye.

Throughout her conversation with Chu Peng, she had kept her head down, pretending to be the obedient, graceful Chu family daughter—quiet, elegant and composed.

But she couldn’t help being drawn to this cold, noble, and impossibly beautiful woman. Qin Xiao’s voice was like the woman herself—calm and resolute, allowing no argument. Her words weren’t suggestions or discussions. No—for the Chu family, her words were final. They were orders.

*****

So this was the legendary head of the Qin family.
That was what Chu Qiyan had thought at the time.
Lacking any right to speak, she hadn’t dared look at her again during the entire meeting, afraid of offending this noble guest.

But now… this lofty, powerful figure was right beside her, and there was an unexpected gentleness in both her words and actions.

Chu Qiyan suddenly smiled.

She never would’ve imagined that Qin Xiao was this kind of person.

No one would believe her even if she told them.

“What is it?” Qin Xiao noticed the change in her demeanor and asked with a hint of curiosity.

“N-nothing… Why… did you come again?” Chu Qiyan looked at her softly.

Her round apricot eyes sparkled with a unique brilliance, mesmerizing in a way that left Qin Xiao momentarily unable to read her.
But that glow… was enchanting.

The dim lighting inside the car cast a golden hue over her gentle smile, giving her entire face a dreamy softness. Coupled with her genuine expression, she looked stunning.

Qin Xiao lifted her eyes, gazing straight at her. In that instant, Chu Qiyan seemed to merge with the fleeting neon lights flashing by the car window—transient, yet forever etched in her memory.

“…To discuss a collaboration,” Qin Xiao said after a brief pause, her tone even.
She withdrew her gaze and added, “About the land in the west district.”

“I see…” Chu Qiyan nodded, though her heart sank a little.
So Qin Xiao hadn’t come for her after all.

“Chu Qian drugged you. What do you want to do about it?”
Qin Xiao suddenly remembered the theatrics of Chu Qian earlier and frowned slightly.

“There’s no proof. Let it go,” Chu Qiyan replied thoughtfully, glancing at her, unsure why she was bringing this up now.

“I’m a witness,” Qin Xiao said, lifting her eyes with a casual tone.

“…But I’m your fiancée now. Wouldn’t that make it seem like you’re biased and covering for me?” Chu Qiyan teased lightly.

“I wouldn’t,” Qin Xiao replied, her brows lifting slightly, a faint smile flashing through her cool, phoenix-like eyes.

“Still, we better be careful, or Chu Qian will say we’re bullying her…”
Chu Qiyan laughed at the thought, her smile bright and radiant.

“Well… you’re not wrong.” Qin Xiao’s lips curved faintly, her face carrying a smile that was there and not quite.

They finally arrived at Yunshan Garden.
The courtyard gates opened slowly, and the car glided in.
Chu Qiyan looked at the front garden—everything was elegant yet extravagant.
There were fountains on either side, with finely sculpted artworks displayed among them, vivid and lifelike.

This wasn’t the villa from the engagement banquet.
It was grander—more majestic and imposing.

Even someone like Chu Qiyan, raised in the Chu family, found herself momentarily frozen after getting out of the car.
Only now did she realize… the Chu family really wasn’t on the same level as these true powerhouses.

“Let’s go,” Qin Xiao said, glancing at her as a reminder.

“You’ll stay in the guest room.”
Qin Xiao’s tone was leisurely as she wheeled herself into the spacious living room.
“If you need anything, just ask Aunt Liu.”

Chu Qiyan followed behind.
The lighting was bright, almost harsh to the eyes.
The interior decor was minimalist yet refined, exuding luxury in every detail.
It shared a similar style to the ninth floor of the villa where the engagement banquet was held—clearly reflecting Qin Xiao’s taste.

Aunt Liu hurried over with a warm smile.
“Miss Chu, come with me.”

“Hello, Aunt Liu,” Chu Qiyan said, a little surprised to see her here again.

Perhaps sensing her confusion, Aunt Liu explained, “I go wherever the family head goes.”

Everything in the house was just as before, yet Qin Xiao felt it all seemed a little brighter.
She finally felt more at ease.
And Chu Qiyan’s presence brought with it a subtle, unfamiliar emotion—indescribable, yet undeniable.

Hearing the faint voices drifting from upstairs, Qin Xiao couldn’t help but smile softly.

At the same time, Assistant Liu Xinmin loosened her tie and sat on the sofa beside Qin Xiao.

Her face still wore the usual gentle smile, but it lacked the shadowy edge it carried during work hours.

“President Qin… you really like her, don’t you?” Liu Xinmin raised a brow, curiosity gleaming in her eyes.

Qin Xiao glanced sideways at her but didn’t reply.
This was typical of Liu off-duty—more relaxed, less formal.
As her personal assistant, Liu Xinmin also lived on the first floor of the estate, while Qin Xiao stayed on the second.

The villa’s grounds were vast—housing twenty more people wouldn’t make it feel crowded.

“Chu Peng asked for the moon, and you still agreed. I really don’t get why you’re so dead set on that west district lot. There are other properties that seem just as good—like…”

“West district is strategic,” Qin Xiao replied lightly, offering no further explanation.

“…Alright then. And what about her?”
Knowing she couldn’t outmatch Qin Xiao in business, Liu wisely dropped the topic and switched gears, turning to her fiancée.

“You actually brought an Omega back to Yunshan Garden… are you really into her? Planning to marry her?”
Liu Xinmin asked seriously, curiosity tinged with concern.

“Maybe.”
Qin Xiao’s reply was honest. “Does it matter who it is?”

“…Don’t say that. Your condition will get better. Xu Chanmian has spent years researching—she’ll find a cure,” Liu reassured her.

“Mm…” Qin Xiao murmured in response, saying no more.

Her thoughts drifted upstairs to Chu Qiyan.
She couldn’t help but wonder if the scent of pheromones she’d noticed that night was really just a figment of her imagination.

Maybe… this was her only hope.
Faint and fragile as it was, it was still something—better than nothing.

“We need to push the west district development proposal forward—ASAP.”
With that, Qin Xiao returned to business.

“This soon?” Liu looked at her in surprise.
No current project seemed to be getting as much attention as this one.

“The sooner, the better,” Qin Xiao replied.
They couldn’t afford to wait until others caught on.

“Qin Xiao…”
Chu Qiyan came downstairs just in time to witness the scene—Assistant Liu, who usually pushed Qin Xiao’s wheelchair, was now casually sitting beside her on the sofa.

Wasn’t that a little too… informal?
Wasn’t Assistant Liu a subordinate?

“Hello…” Chu Qiyan greeted them with an awkward smile, still not quite sure what she was walking into.

“She’s my friend, Liu Xinmin. Also my assistant,” Qin Xiao introduced plainly.

“Nice to meet you, Miss Chu. I’m Liu Xinmin. I live here too,” Liu said, standing up and offering her hand politely.

“Nice to meet you too. I’ll be in your care,” Chu Qiyan replied, finally recalling why she had come downstairs in the first place.

It was about the school forum incident.
Her friend Chen Sheng had said she “found” that USB drive—but the whole thing sounded too coincidental.
No ordinary person could have planted those photos and videos—especially not someone who could infiltrate the Chu family…

She’d come to ask Qin Xiao if it was possible to trace who had left the USB behind.

But now, with the two Alphas in front of her so at ease and harmonious, she wasn’t sure if she should interrupt.

If not for Qin Xiao’s cold and commanding presence in the wheelchair, Chu Qiyan might have mistaken Liu Xinmin for the real Qin family head.

“Um… Qin Xiao…” Chu Qiyan hesitated, but still chose to speak.
She figured Liu must already be in the loop.

“That USB—”
Before she could finish, Liu cut her off.

“It appeared at the café, but the surveillance footage from that period has all been erased.
The owner says she has no idea how it got there,” Liu explained in full.

“…I see.”
Chu Qiyan frowned.
Clearly, someone had it out for her.
But who? Chu Qian?
Where would she get those videos and photos?
She didn’t believe Chu Qian could’ve filmed them herself—not unless she had help.
But who could it be?

Chu Qiyan genuinely couldn’t figure it out.
She’d always treated others kindly—who would go to such lengths to frame her?

Unless… it was her identity as Qin Xiao’s fiancée that had made her a target.

For a moment, she stood there, lost in thought.

Qin Xiao looked up at her. She was still dressed in the same white gown, face bare of makeup, clean and elegant.
Compared to her gentle smile from earlier that day, she now appeared colder—like moonlight, serene and untainted, with a hint of grace and pride.

But her expression was off.
Her brows were furrowed, and her round eyes full of confusion and unease.
It was as if something heavy clouded her thoughts, trapping her in a quiet struggle.

“Don’t worry. We’ll get to the bottom of it,” Qin Xiao said, her tone soft with reassurance.

Liu Xinmin glanced at her in surprise.

“…”
Whatever crossed her mind, Chu Qiyan suddenly looked uneasy.
Her cheeks turned red.

“Those photos and videos… they were all shot at angles.
I didn’t… I wasn’t doing anything with them…”
Her voice trailed off, softer and softer.