Chapter One Hundred: Rong Qing's Methods

The main core members of the Huo family reside in the grand Huo mansion. This serves two purposes: first, to frequently appear before the patriarch, earning some familiarity; second, entry into the mansion symbolizes the dignity and status of the Huo clan—no one foolishly relinquishes their position to others. The current head of the Huo Group is Huo Lingtian, and naturally, his partner assumes the role of the matriarch of the family. Upon her recent appointment, the new matriarch’s first act upon returning to the mansion was to receive the younger generation’s formal greetings and familiarize herself with the family’s key members.

Rongqing and Huo Lingtian sat in the main seats. Her smile was stiff, and she kept repeating the same words. Damn, how was she supposed to remember the countless members of the Huo family? She simply couldn’t endure maintaining a solemn expression all day while accepting filial respect from juniors older than herself. The pressure was immense!

Huo Lingtian glanced at his beloved, whose face was lined with fatigue. Even he couldn’t recognize all the descendants of the Huo family, and having her identify them one by one was a waste of time and energy. He waved his hand: “Let everyone from outside come in.”

As expected, a crowd surged in from outside, making the spacious main hall somewhat cramped. The distinctions between legitimate heirs and illegitimate sons became blurred. Rongqing scanned the room and noticed a stout figure trying hard to minimize his presence, but his robust frame was a clear marker. Her gaze inevitably locked onto him. Although the man stood rigidly with his head bowed, she recognized him.

No matter how bold the Huo family members were at this moment, none dared to disrespect the matriarch. Reflecting on his past behavior, Huo Quan wished he could find a brick to bash his own head. Forced into submission, he put on a flattering smile, his chubby cheeks nearly hiding his eyes: “Matriarch, I apologize for past offenses. I... I won’t dare to offend again.”

“He is the son of Aunt Huo Zhen. I have already reprimanded him for his previous misconduct towards you,” a calm voice spoke from beside her.

Rongqing looked at the timid and meek man before her. His leg appeared injured, causing him to limp when he walked. There was none of his former arrogance and dominance left.

She decided to forgive him. Among the crowd, a plump and adorable girl caught Rongqing’s attention. The little girl winked at her. Rongqing scrutinized her for a moment, feeling a strange familiarity.

The girl seemed disappointed that Rongqing hadn’t recognized her yet. Pouting pitifully, she said in a plaintive voice, “Sister, you don’t remember me…”

Her voice was delicate, full of grievance yet pure and endearing.

Oh—so it was her, Huo Xinfei, with whom Rongqing had a brief encounter before. Rongqing smiled, her face blooming like a garden in full spring, dazzling all who saw it. “How could I forget, little Huo Xinfei…”

The girl brightened instantly. “You really married brother, after all. But you’re so beautiful—the most beautiful sister I’ve ever seen. I really like you. It’s great that you’re my sister-in-law.” Huo Xinfei was somewhat obsessed with her brother. In her eyes, her perfect, tall, handsome, and outstanding brother was unmatched, though this sister was truly... beautiful. She seemed to suit her brother very well.

Rongqing was amused by the child’s candid words. In such a scheming and competitive family, children like this were rare. As they chatted, a sincere smile blossomed on Rongqing’s face. She didn’t mind giving Huo Xinfei a little extra care and attention.

Huo Lingtian was also very pleased. “Xinfei, your sister-in-law is new to the Huo mansion and not yet familiar with things. When you have time, go keep her company.” The head of the family’s words instantly filled the younger generation with envy. They had once looked down on this matriarch, but after witnessing the head’s support for her, their envy toward the already favored Huo Xinfei only deepened.

The steward introduced the Huo descendants one by one. After Rongqing had greeted them, they were dismissed. She had met quite a few people that afternoon, but few left an impression. She noted that the Huo family was indeed full of cunning individuals.

When Rongqing first entered the Huo estate, no one was sure about the temperament of this young madam or the patriarch’s true attitude. Previously, the old master had strongly opposed a performer entering the family, but now his stance was inscrutable. Those with some sense adopted a wait-and-see approach. After all, this young madam had no family background or influence; she relied solely on the man’s fleeting favor. How long could that last? Many of the other young madams had once been cherished before entering the household, only to find themselves discarded after entry, their husbands unfaithful, leaving them to serve as nothing more than servants within their own homes.

Of course, some reckless concubines dared to challenge the matriarch’s authority. Their fates were predictable. Even if the head of the family did not intervene, Rongqing’s status alone was enough to easily punish their insolence.

Each branch of the Huo family had its own courtyard. Though seemingly integrated, their lives were separate and did not interfere with one another. The new residence of the Huo family head was located in the best part of the estate, blending luxurious ancient architectural style with Western decor, winding paths leading to secluded serenity. Without the head’s permission, no Huo clan member was allowed to enter these inner quarters. Thus, even living in the mansion, Rongqing’s life remained undisturbed by outsiders.

The day after returning to X City, Rongqing resumed work. Overnight, her value soared. As the young madam of the Huo family and an international superstar, she became the darling of every radio station and media outlet. From fashion to daily anecdotes, every scrap of celebrity news was sensationalized into front-page headlines. Rongqing looked at the florid language in the newspapers and rubbed her forehead. When had she become a fashion icon? Just days ago, she wore a black knit sweater with a white T-shirt—items worth a few hundred yuan—yet these reporters and media treated it as high fashion. They were truly unreliable.

When her manager called, she felt guilty. After a month of absences, she wondered whether Yan Lin would be angry or angrier.

“I know I was wrong,” Rongqing said, sounding nauseated by her own words as she dealt with her manager. “I know skipping work, blocking messages, and turning off my phone are bad habits. I’m reflecting on it. You should understand the eagerness of a newlywed couple on their honeymoon.”

Yan Lin held up the phone, his forehead twitching with nerves. “Eager, you say? After you and Young Master Huo have been inseparable, flirting openly in front of me every day, you still dare mention eagerness? Damn it!” He calmed himself, returning to his cold, intelligent elite demeanor. He absolutely refused to admit that this American-recognized management genius couldn’t even handle one girl. “Hmph. Several media outlets have sent me interview invitations of considerable weight. You decide. Also, the recent barrage of news about you—whether true or false—doesn’t bode well for your image.”

Rongqing’s tone lowered. The company and manager could not issue statements without her presence. Some people were deliberately using her identity for hype, which was harmful to any star. “I understand. Since we want a strong counterattack, we must strike at the root. Yan Lin, contact Starbright Entertainment’s media. I will grant them an exclusive interview!” A gleam shone in her eyes.

Yan Lin knew this little trickster was full of cunning ideas. It was time to show them they were not so easy to bully!

When Starbright Entertainment received the call from Rongqing’s manager, their excitement was palpable, hands trembling. This was an internationally sought-after superstar. They hadn’t expected her to decline other renowned stations’ interviews and accept one from a small local station. Surely, their invitation to Rongqing’s family had been perfect! Now, they had secured this rising star.

The station director took the matter seriously, preparing everything to the highest standard. Not only the best interview room but also a host who had studied abroad and returned—professional and polished. Media promotion was extensive, and with Rongqing’s famous name alone, that evening’s ratings were guaranteed.

If not for agreeing to an exclusive interview with Rongqing, the director would have invited her entire family for special segments.

Fame and rising status often breed diva behavior, but Rongqing was punctual and respectful of others’ time. Even amid X City’s notorious traffic jams, she arrived promptly. Since the interview was live, Yan Lin already had some of the content for that night.

The station staff were enthusiastic; the director personally welcomed the superstar. The interviewer was a popular local host with undeniable professionalism. That evening, Rongqing wore a loose sapphire-blue knit sweater, tight jeans, and black heeled boots, embodying a fashionable yet approachable look. Despite the casual attire, her star aura was irresistible.

The lighting and camera crews took their places. The host wore a fiery, tight-fitting mini skirt, crossing her pale legs elegantly but with a slight risk of wardrobe malfunction. Her makeup was exquisite, and her smile warm and professional. The host babbled through a lengthy introduction before finally announcing the star of the evening. The station director exchanged meaningful glances with the host, while fans watching at home nearly lost their minds. They wanted to see the stunning Rongqing, not this shrill, flirtatious, and unattractive woman wasting screen time!

Perhaps realizing she had gone too far, the host returned to the main point. “Please welcome tonight’s superstar—Rongqing!”

Dressed casually, Rongqing appeared with a gentle, serene smile. The fervent fans in front of their TVs were thrilled. Yes, truly elegant and tasteful—utterly eclipsing the host bouncing beside her.

Meanwhile, in the safest inner quarters of the Huo mansion, a large bedroom on the top floor featured a 90-inch 3D TV broadcasting the program. Huo Zhen had cleared everyone from the courtyard, sitting alone before the massive screen, watching his granddaughter-in-law. He was ecstatic beyond words!

From deep within the estate occasionally came exaggerated chuckles and giggles...