My Manor

"This is my husband, Jiang Hai, and this is Zhou Xian, the son of Uncle Zhou Yu." Qi Li glanced at the handsome young man approaching, a slight flush on her face. To be honest, Zhou Xian was quite well-regarded in this circle.

It might be because his father was from the military, but Zhou Yu had never spoiled him.

Since childhood, Zhou Xian had maintained a good reputation—unlike many other second-generation individuals. He was an excellent student, excelling in both academics and sports, especially basketball and football.

In college, he even competed in Cuba and became the team's top scorer. However, he was too old to pursue a career in the CBA. There was nothing negative about his private life either. He didn't smoke, nor was he dissolute; he didn't have any bad habits. He worked in the Ministry of Land and Resources. Although he was just a low-ranking clerk, no one dared look down on him, thanks to his father's influence.

In his free time, he enjoyed sports—he ran every morning and evening, and played ball after work. He led a healthy life. This was something Zhou Yu was especially proud of—his son was easier to manage than most.

Qi Li had met him in high school. By then, her father had already allied himself with Zhou Yu, and the two families had a good relationship. Zhou Xian had fallen for Qi Li at first sight, but she wasn't interested in someone she felt was so insincere.

After going abroad for college, Qi Li met An Changwu, and when she returned, Zhou Xian was heartbroken.

However, Zhou Yu's nature was such that he couldn't force love. So, he had no choice but to watch his son suffer.

Later, when the Qi family faced a crisis, Zhou Yu saw an opportunity and wanted Qi Li to marry his son. But Qi Li's mother would never let their family's fortune be handed over so easily.

She knew that although both Zhou Yu and Zhou Xian were decent people, if Zhou Xian married into their family, he'd eventually dominate. In time, the Qi family would be overshadowed by the Zhou name. So, Qi Li's mother chose Jiang Hai instead—someone without any ambition or power. Jiang Hai had no connections, and even if he had a child with Qi Li, that child would still carry the Qi surname. The Qi family could raise him as they saw fit, and Jiang Hai wouldn't have any say.

It was clear that Qi Li's mother had orchestrated Jiang Hai's fate. The older generation certainly knew how to control the situation.

"Hello, my name is Zhou Xian, and I currently work at the Land and Resources Bureau." Hearing Qi Li's introduction, Zhou Xian's gaze lingered on Jiang Hai. With a confident smile, he extended his hand. He wasn't insecure—after all, he knew Jiang Hai's past. The man had no job and depended on Qi Li for support. Now, standing in front of him, Jiang Hai seemed to have little going for him. He wasn't as handsome as Zhou Xian, nor did he have a better background.

Most importantly, was this guy crazy? What kind of attire was that for such an event?

"My name is Jiang Hai, and I raise cattle." Jiang Hai looked at Zhou Xian, amused. Was he naturally prone to attracting attention in a negative way?

As they shook hands, Jiang Hai noticed Zhou Xian gradually increasing his grip. Surprised, Jiang Hai couldn't help but chuckle. He had only heard about such scenes on TV or in novels, but now he was experiencing it himself.

Yet, Jiang Hai wasn't one to be intimidated. If Zhou Xian increased his pressure, Jiang Hai would match it. Was a sports enthusiast like him not capable of doubling the strength of a regular person? In an instant, Jiang Hai increased his grip, and Zhou Xian's face turned a deep purple.

"Hey, niece Qi, let me introduce you to some people. Since you're here, you shouldn't waste this opportunity." Zhou Yu interjected, seeing his son at a disadvantage.

Biases often come into play. Though Zhou Yu wasn't a bad person, he still sided with his son. Initially, he hadn't intended to interfere in the competition between Zhou Xian and Jiang Hai, but seeing his son struggle, he felt compelled to act.

Zhou Xian immediately pulled his hand back, subtly hiding it behind his back. If anyone were behind him at that moment, they would have noticed the purple mark left by Jiang Hai's grip.

Seeing the scene, Jiang Hai chuckled to himself. He was so confident—did he really think his strength could compare to his?

What Zhou Xian didn't realize was that Jiang Hai had only used about 30% of his strength. Had he exerted 50%, Zhou Xian's hand would likely have been crushed.

Zhou Xian silently cursed Jiang Hai under his breath. A mere cattle farmer dared to act so arrogantly. But he had to admit, this cattle farmer was surprisingly strong.

"Oh, Uncle Zhou, no need. I still need to stay with my husband." Qi Li smiled, politely refusing.

Zhou Yu and Zhou Xian were taken aback. After all, getting into this circle was no easy feat. Anyone here held significant influence. But now, Qi Li wanted to stay with Jiang Hai instead of mingling with the other guests? Was she losing her mind after getting married?

"Xiao Li, you should meet some people. The circle is small, and I'm sure your husband will be fine on his own," Zhou Xian said, shaking his wrist and speaking seriously. His eyes lingered on Jiang Hai, who he saw as nothing more than a cattle farmer. What business did he have at such an event?

Before Qi Li could respond, someone interrupted him.

Zhou Xian looked toward the voice with frustration and saw a man of similar age to his father heading toward Jiang Hai with a broad smile. It was clear this man highly valued Jiang Hai.

Zhou Xian didn't recognize the man, but Zhou Yu did. Upon seeing the man, Zhou Yu immediately stood at attention.

"Oh, I just arrived. Where's Du Famen?" Jiang Hai greeted the man with a smile. He was familiar with him—the person who had previously tried to convince him to approach Du Famen.

Jiang Hai wasn't sure of the man's exact position, but judging from Zhou Yu's reaction, the man held a high rank. Jiang Hai smiled and greeted him warmly.

"Mr. Maktoum is in the room, discussing things with the court representatives. When do you think you'll..." the man inquired carefully, aware that Jiang Hai's connection with Du Famen was valuable.

"Let's talk later. I'm a bit hungry. I'm going to grab some food." Jiang Hai smiled and made his way toward the food. The man stepped aside with a smile.

Before leaving, the man noticed Zhou Yu standing nearby.

"Minister Qin, hello." Zhou Yu smiled modestly at the man.

"Ah, hello! You're from Lao Zhang's team? You know Mr. Jiang? Well, then you're certainly well-connected." The man laughed, patted his head, and then turned to Jiang Hai, joking, "You certainly know the right people."

Though joking, Zhou Yu could sense the underlying seriousness. This man's words indicated that Jiang Hai was far from ordinary. Not only did he know Minister Qin, but the minister seemed to be seeking something from him.

Furthermore, Du Famen, whom the man had mentioned, was likely the key figure at this banquet.

Zhou Yu couldn't help but sweat. Who was Jiang Hai really?

Could he really be just a cattle farmer, or was there something more to him?

As Minister Qin left, Zhou Xian approached his father, still in a daze, and called out to him softly.

"This Jiang Hai is definitely not an ordinary person. You just offended him. You should leave now." Zhou Yu whispered urgently, pulling his son away.

Hearing this, Zhou Xian felt a mixture of regret, jealousy, and fear. He regretted being so blinded by jealousy earlier. Now, he realized how fortunate he had been to survive that encounter.