I Married My Heartless Ex-Wife’s Black Lotus Sister - Chapter 56

Song Yanqing’s words were sincere and utterly convincing.

Zheng Yili once again found herself engulfed in profound confusion. She hesitated, studying Song Yanqing’s confident expression, before tentatively asking after a long pause, “Really?”

In response to her doubt, Song Yanqing smiled and gave a firm answer, “Really.”

So there was such a thing! Zheng Yili had absolutely no memory of it. She guessed it must have been because she was too young at the time, unable to retain memories properly, which was why she had completely forgotten everything related to Song Yanqing.

She fell silent for a moment, then suddenly lifted her chin excitedly, puffing out her chest with pride. “Then I was really a brave and righteous little angel back then.”

At such a young age, she had saved a stranger’s child, allowing them to grow up safely against all odds.

Zheng Yili’s eyes sparkled with delight. It should have been a deeply touching moment, but for some reason, her thoughts took an inexplicable turn: “Sister, then we really are a match made in heaven.”

She giggled foolishly. “You were destined to be with me since childhood.”

Zheng Yili’s words were somewhat domineering, but Song Yanqing didn’t refute them. Instead, she nodded in agreement. “I think so too.” Zheng Yili’s words made Song Yanqing incredibly happy, as they made her feel that she occupied a special, extraordinary place in Zheng Yili’s heart.

“So, Lili,” Song Yanqing slowly reached out, gripping Zheng Yili’s hand firmly and resolutely, “even if I spend my entire life repaying you, it wouldn’t be enough.”

Once, her life had been saved by Zheng Yili. Once, the motivation that kept her alive in the Song family had also been Zheng Yili.

That small, lively, and radiant figure had left an indelible warmth in her life, like a dazzling beam of light piercing through her cold, dark, and desolate existence.

How could anyone not adore such a charming, spirited, and warm-hearted girl?

At first, Song Yanqing had thought her feelings for Zheng Yili were merely gratitude. But it wasn’t until later, when Zheng Yili’s abrupt death ended her life, that Song Yanqing realized the unique and extraordinary significance Zheng Yili held in her entire existence.

With Zheng Yili’s departure, Song Yanqing felt as though she had been hollowed out, wandering through her days like a lifeless shell, suddenly devoid of the courage and anchor to keep living.

It was only then that she understood—the sole reason for her existence in this world had always been Zheng Yili.

The person who, as a child, would cautiously stand at least two meters away and softly call her “sister.” The person who, upon entering adolescence, suddenly became bashful yet still mustered the courage to greet her.

And later, the person who, tormented by Song Qi’an until she was covered in wounds, lashed out indiscriminately at everyone around her, raising her defenses like a porcupine to feign fierceness while hiding her fragility.

Every part of Zheng Yili was so vivid that, in the depths of night, Song Yanqing would often wake abruptly, unable to grasp the shadow of her in her dreams.

The nights stretched endlessly, time itself seeming to stand still.

Song Yanqing had no idea how many endless, century-long nights she had endured. All the deeply hidden emotions she had never acknowledged before were now laid bare, forcing her to confront the depths of her own heart.

In the past, because Zheng Yili was her sister-in-law, she had always maintained a polite distance, afraid of causing misunderstandings between Song Qi’an and Zheng Yili.

Even when they argued, she would only try to buy gifts to cheer her up, comforting her to let go and not obsess over complicated, troublesome love.

She should have her own life, her own goals, and strive to take control of her own destiny—not be anyone’s appendage, especially not Song Qi’an’s.

But words alone were too feeble, and she had never used forceful means to pull her back from the wrong path.

By then, Zheng Yili had already sunk deep into the quagmire of love. Even if she knew she was on the wrong path, she was too far gone, trapped by all she had lost, unable to save herself.

Song Yanqing should have been more resolute.

She should have used stronger, more decisive measures to separate them.

If Song Qi’an didn’t know how to cherish her, didn’t know how to love her properly, then Song Qi’an should have been removed—to make way for herself.

In this world, no one understood better than Song Yanqing how to nurture and protect that dazzling, radiant flower.

But back then, she hadn’t.

She had simply stood by, watching helplessly as Zheng Yili sank deeper and deeper, until she was battered and bruised, withering away like a dying rose.

Zheng Yili was gone from this world.

The belated realization was agonizing. Song Yanqing often sat in the dark, lost in thought, reflecting again and again on why she had been so weak, so cowardly back then.

Zheng Yili should have been her fiancée.

It was Shen Yun and Song Qi’an who had shamelessly stolen her away.

They had plucked that rose from its heights, only to neglect her, leaving her imprisoned in the cage of the Song family until she lost even her life…

Without warning, Song Yanqing pulled Zheng Yili into a tight embrace, her body trembling faintly. “Lili, don’t leave me.”

Her arms were locked around her with desperate strength, as if only this could dispel the nightmare, could keep the one who haunted her dreams from slipping away.

Zheng Yili was bewildered by the sudden gesture, but without hesitation, she hugged her back firmly. “I won’t,” she promised.

“Jiejie, I still want to live with you for many, many years—until we’re both old and gray.”

Half-jokingly, she asked, “You won’t think I’m ugly by then, will you?”

“Never.” Song Yanqing buried her face against Zheng Yili’s neck, her breath warm and damp against her skin, sending tingles down her spine.

“This time, I won’t let go, even if I die,” she murmured softly.

Her voice was too faint, and Zheng Yili didn’t catch it, letting out a questioning hum.

But Song Yanqing didn’t repeat herself. Instead, she simply tightened her grip on Zheng Yili’s hand, her gaze unwavering.

“Lili, I won’t let you leave me again.”

All those who stood in their way, all those who posed a threat to Zheng Yili—they all deserved to be eliminated.

Zheng Yili didn’t overthink it, assuming Song Yanqing was simply referring to how Song Qi’an had once stolen her marriage arrangement. A faint smile unconsciously appeared at the corners of her lips as she obediently leaned in, nuzzling against Song Yanqing like a spoiled child. “I won’t leave you, sister.”

“Even if ten Song Qi’ans came, I’d still choose you without hesitation.”

She showered Song Yanqing with praise: “There’s no one better in this world than you.” After a pause, she added, “Except for Madam Ji.”

Song Yanqing laughed at her words: “Mom is naturally the best person in the world. She’s helped me so much since I was little.”

As she spoke, Song Yanqing gently cupped Zheng Yili’s face and couldn’t resist planting several kisses. “Lili, how can you both be so wonderful?”

Zheng Yili was wonderful, and Ji Wushuang was too.

These two people, who had only superficial connections with her biological mother, had given her second and third chances at life.

Their kindness, righteousness, and noble purity often made her want to draw near, yet she hesitated, feeling herself too unworthy to possess such goodness.

Zheng Yili took Song Yanqing’s words as praise. Like a proud peacock, she lifted her neck and fluffed her feathers. “Because we were born good.”

She declared smugly: “Our nature is inherently kind.”

Song Yanqing laughed in agreement, raising her hand to affectionately stroke Zheng Yili’s face. “Lili, you’re truly the kindest and most adorable person in this world.”

“You’re not so bad yourself, sister.” Zheng Yili thought for a moment. Setting aside her past life’s prejudice against Song Qi’an, she realized she’d never met anyone better than Song Yanqing in this lifetime.

The woman was kind, gentle, considerate, and attentive.

How could she, in her previous life, have been so blinded and ensnared by Song Qi’an that she failed to see such a wonderful person as Song Yanqing?

Zheng Yili was filled with regret. If only she’d realized sooner, they wouldn’t have spent a lifetime missing each other.

She found herself falling deeper in love with Song Yanqing—a love that seeped into her bones and became unforgettable.

Brimming with affection, Zheng Yili gazed ardently at Song Yanqing until the latter’s throat moved slightly, signaling her intention to rise. Only then did Zheng Yili quickly pull away, grinning mischievously. “I should get back to reviewing the documents.”

Picking up her phone, she murmured, as if to herself yet clearly for Song Yanqing’s ears: “First, I’ll call little A-Lin to check on things.”

Song Yanqing knew full well Zheng Yili was doing this on purpose, but there was nothing she could do.

After all, she’d chosen this woman herself—she could only indulge her.

Song Lin had just finished overtime work when she saw Zheng Yili’s call. She answered promptly: “Lili, you’re calling about An Xian, right?” Without waiting for Zheng Yili to ask, she volunteered the information: “Thanks to your solid evidence, An Xian’s charge of trespassing is now ironclad.”

“We’ll be issuing her punishment soon. However, since An Chenglun wasn’t caught on camera, he won’t face significant consequences.”

Zheng Yili had expected this outcome, so she wasn’t too disappointed. After expressing her thanks, she asked with a smile: “I’ve got a big opportunity for you—interested?”

Hearing this, Song Lin’s eyes lit up. “Tell me quickly! I’ve been waiting for this promotion and raise.”

Since it couldn’t be explained briefly, Zheng Yili said, “When are you free? Let’s meet up to discuss the details.”

“I’m free right now,” Song Lin eagerly replied. How could she let such a great opportunity slip away? She quickly fastened her seatbelt. “Wait for me, I’ll come find you right away.”

Zheng Yili’s lips moved, but before she could refuse, Song Lin asked, “Is Cousin there? Do you guys want some barbecue? I can bring some.”

“She’s here,” Zheng Yili replied, glancing at Song Yanqing guiltily. “We just ate, so no need for barbecue.”

Song Lin: “Alright then, wait for me. I’ll be there in half an hour.”

After hanging up, Song Lin excitedly started her car and sped off toward her big opportunity.

Meanwhile, at the police station, An Chenglun sat impatiently across from An Xian. “There’s nothing I can do. You were careless and got caught with evidence. Who else can I turn to for help?”

“Those so-called friends of yours would probably run faster than I would when they hear you’re in trouble. Mom, just stay here quietly and stop deluding yourself about finding connections to smooth things over.”

An Xian was so angry she nearly fainted on the spot. She stood up agitatedly. “You didn’t even try, and you’re saying they won’t help me? My sisters are much more reliable than your friends!”

Seeing An Chenglun’s expression darken, she suppressed her temper and softened her voice. “Sweetheart, go talk to your sister Yili. Apologize and beg for her mercy to let me off this time…”

“I’m not going.” At the mention of Zheng Yili’s name, An Chenglun shuddered violently.

Going to Zheng Yili now would be like walking into a beating. She already resented him, and now his mother had sneaked into her house to steal her hair.

To make matters worse, An Xian had failed spectacularly—even after stealing the hair, she still couldn’t prove their bl00d relation.

An Chenglun couldn’t help but fall into deep confusion. Staring at the anxious An Xian, he blurted out, “Mom, tell me the truth—am I really Zheng Huai’s biological child?”

“What nonsense are you spouting? Of course you are!” An Xian was so furious she had a headache and raised her voice again. “Your father is the only man I’ve ever been with!”

“That doesn’t make sense…” An Chenglun muttered. “If that’s the case, why aren’t Zheng Yili and I siblings?”

Seeing his foolish expression, An Xian closed her eyes in despair.

How could she, so clever all her life, have given birth to such an idiot? It was downright embarrassing.

But he was still her son, and she needed him now. After taking a few deep breaths, she declared firmly, “Because Zheng Yili isn’t your father’s child.”

“She’s the bastard Ji Wushuang had with another man.”

An Chenglun’s eyes lit up. “So that means I’m the only one who can inherit Zheng Huai’s estate—wait, no.” Just as he was getting excited, he suddenly changed his tune and self-corrected: “Zheng Huai was just the Ji family’s live-in son-in-law. What assets could he possibly have in his name?”

“Everything he owned was given to him by the Ji family, wasn’t it?”

Seeing An Xian about to interrupt him, An Chenglun hurriedly sped up his speech. “Mom, did you hear earlier? Zheng Yili said she’s going to hire lawyers to make us return everything we’ve taken over the years.”

“Zheng Huai gave you plenty of money and properties over the years, didn’t he? If those transaction records get uncovered, how do you plan to repay those marital assets?”

An Chenglun had no sense of urgency—even with the fire at their doorstep, he kept pouring fuel on An Xian’s anger. She was so furious she nearly choked. “Are you Ji Wushuang’s son or mine?”

“Instead of helping me figure out a solution at a time like this, you’re actually taking Ji Wushuang’s side!”

“Have you lost your mind?! We’re in this together—sink or swim!”

After being yelled at by An Xian, An Chenglun finally regained some sense. He hesitated, staring at her. “Then what should we do? Xing Yue’s legal team is formidable.”

“Even if we find equally skilled lawyers now, the fees would be astronomical. Mom, do we even have enough money left to hire lawyers for a lawsuit?”

An Xian: “…”

An Xian was truly at her wit’s end. She rubbed her temples wearily, suddenly losing all desire to speak to her son. With a weak wave of her hand, she signaled for him to leave.

Yet An Chenglun remained clueless, foolishly pressing closer. “Mom, what do you mean?”

“Get out,” An Xian said coldly.

An Chenglun scratched his head. “Really? Then I’ll go, Mom. You’ll be alone here…” He hesitated. “You’ll be okay, right?”

An Xian forced a strained smile. “I’m fine.”

But if her son stayed any longer, she couldn’t guarantee she wouldn’t snap.

True to his word, An Chenglun left without another thought, quickly vanishing from sight. An Xian stared blankly at the spot where his figure had disappeared, taking a long while to calm her seething anger.

It’s fine—just a few days in confinement.

Once the time was up, she’d walk out and turn the tables in her favor.

Clutching this hope, An Xian settled quietly into her temporary quarters.

Song Lin arrived by car soon after.

Carrying takeout barbecue and beer, she pushed the door open cheerfully and called out loudly, “Cousin! Lili! Come out for drinks! The three of us should have a proper gathering tonight!”

Zheng Yili looked up from her laptop and walked over. “Drinks? Don’t you have work tomorrow?”

“Of course I do,” Song Lin chuckled. “But when you said you had big news waiting for me, I couldn’t help but get excited.”

After setting the barbecue on the dining table, Song Lin immediately poured three glasses of beer and eagerly gestured for Zheng Yili to sit. “Now tell me everything—what exactly happened?”

Seeing her enthusiasm, Zheng Yili didn’t keep her in suspense and immediately shared her suspicions with Song Lin.

After hearing this, Song Lin frowned. “Her elder sister passed away over twenty years ago. That’s too long ago—we don’t even know if we can find any traces to confirm her suspicion.”

“But my dad…” Zheng Yili paused, ultimately not correcting Zheng Huai’s title, “Dad only had his accident two years ago.”

Zheng Yili spoke with certainty, “Two years isn’t that long. If there’s really something suspicious about my dad’s death, investigating now would still be timely.”

“Before this, none of us ever doubted the incident, so An Xian might have let her guard down. It’s possible she didn’t clean up all the loose ends.”

Song Lin looked at her. “But what if your dad really died by accident…”

“What about An Xian’s elder sister?” Zheng Yili asked. Song Lin was taken aback, then suddenly exhaled. “I understand. I’ll apply for an investigation into this matter.”

“However, you’ll need to file a report first.”

Zheng Yili readily agreed. “No problem. As long as we can open a case and start the investigation, I’ll cooperate fully.”

Zheng Yili had dreamed of making An Xian pay. With such a golden opportunity before her, how could she let it slip? After a moment’s thought, she reminded Song Lin, “An Chenglun is another breakthrough point.”

“He’s as timid as a mouse, greedy for money, and obsessed with saving face.” Zheng Yili said meaningfully, “Though I don’t advocate violence, sometimes it really is the most effective method.”

Song Lin caught her drift and smiled as well. “Then I’ll need your cooperation when the time comes, Lili.”

“Piece of cake.”

The two exchanged a knowing smile, mischief practically ringing in the air.

Song Yanqing had been silently listening all this while. Finally, she handed two large document folders to Song Lin. “Some evidence. Take it back to the station and claim credit.”

Song Lin opened them and skimmed through, her eyes lighting up. She immediately tried to pounce on Song Yanqing. “Cousin—no, sis! You’re truly my bl00d sister, my savior!”

“My savior, I could just kiss you to death!”

Song Yanqing raised a hand to stop her in disgust. “Enough with the nonsense. I’ve prepared almost everything for you. If you still can’t handle this perfectly, I’ll have to question your competence.”

The threat in her words was unmistakable. Song Lin instantly stood at attention and saluted, adopting a serious attitude. “Don’t worry, my dear sister. I’ll spare no effort and dedicate myself wholeheartedly to serving you and the people!”

Zheng Yili couldn’t help but laugh. She looked at Song Yanqing gratefully, warmth flowing through her heart once more.

In truth, during their time together, Song Yanqing had rarely spoken overtly romantic words to her. Yet her actions, efforts, and sacrifices spoke louder than any sweet nothings in the world.

Judging someone’s affection isn’t about what they say, but what they do for you.

Clearly, Song Yanqing scored nearly full marks in this regard.

Long before Zheng Yili had even noticed or anticipated anything, Song Yanqing had already sensed something amiss with her sharp intuition and taken action to uncover the truth.

She was intelligent, rational, and steady—qualities that made it impossible not to feel secure around her.

Zheng Yili quietly reached for Song Yanqing’s hand and mouthed silently, “Sister, you’re the best.”

Song Yanqing returned her smile and gently grasped Zheng Yili’s hand. “Alright,” she said to Song Lin. “Since you have work tomorrow, let’s skip the drinks tonight.”

She picked up the bottle Song Lin had brought over. “I’m confiscating this to keep you and Lili from staying up late and wearing yourselves out.”

Song Lin pouted unhappily. “I finally got off work early tonight and just wanted to have a late-night meal with you all…”

She had a whole speech prepared, but under Song Yanqing’s intimidating gaze, she could only pout reluctantly and say, “Fine, fine.” Mumbling to herself as she stood up, “Then I won’t disturb your romantic evening together.”

“My sincerest wish for you is eight rounds tonight.”

Zheng Yili: “?” What kind of vicious blessing is this?

Song Yanqing also looked at her with a complicated expression. “Alright, hurry back now. I’ll walk you out.”

Song Lin, afraid of getting scolded by Song Yanqing, bolted away quickly. Once she was in the car, she slowly rolled down the window and hesitated as she looked at Song Yanqing standing silently. “Cousin, after you and Lili get together… will there be any issues with Song Qi’an over there?”