Chapter 228

Xie Wendong took a sip of his drink and smiled, saying, “There’s always a way when you get to the mountain. If not, you have to dig one out.” Jin Yan blinked inexplicably and asked, “Brother Dong, have you made up your mind?” Xie Wendong pointed to his own head with a smile and said, “I’m still thinking about it!”

In the evening, Xie Wendong invited Qiu Ningshui. She was initially surprised—she had thought he might come, but not so soon. However, Xie Wendong had always been unpredictable, so Qiu Ningshui quickly settled into it. The two agreed to meet at a small bar near her home. The bar was named Deep Blue—a poetic name that matched its elegant interior design. Though not large, it was tastefully furnished, with a circular bar in the center that made the most of the space without feeling crowded.

Xie Wendong sat alone at an empty table, with Jiang Sen and Ren Changfeng sitting next to him. The five men from Jin Yan Group didn’t come close and hid in a van by the bar entrance.

Xie Wendong had arrived early on purpose. He picked up the Coke on the table and took a slow sip—it was already his third glass. Xie Wendong usually lacked patience, but he was an exception when it came to Qiu Ningshui. He listened to the music in the bar, tapping his fingers gently on the table. Just as he began to doubt she would show up, the lady finally arrived.

Without any pleasantries, Qiu Ningshui sat down across from Xie Wendong. She glanced at the Coke in front of him and said, “Why come to a bar if you’re not going to drink alcohol?” With that, she snapped her fingers and said to the waiter approaching, “Bring two beers, fresh ones.”

Xie Wendong studied Qiu Ningshui carefully. After months apart, she looked better than he had imagined—much better. Her complexion was rosy, her eyes bright, and her tall, dark eyebrows arched gracefully. Her black eyes sparkled with an assertive intensity. She wasn’t wearing casual clothes; a black police uniform not only showed her professionalism but also gave Xie Wendong an indescribable sense of pressure. He bet she wore it on purpose. Xie Wendong smiled faintly, rubbing his hands together around the glass, and said, “As long as you like it, it doesn’t matter what you drink.”

Qiu Ningshui raised an eyebrow and said, “That’s right! Many people have advised me not to be a police officer, but I like it, so I’m still a police officer.” Xie Wendong shook his head, pushed the Coke glass aside, and said, “I’m not drinking anymore. I’ve decided to drink alcohol today.” Qiu Ningshui looked at him and said, “I’ve always thought you’re a person with strong opinions.” Xie Wendong smiled bitterly and said, “I tend to listen to others’ advice, which is why I’m doing better than most people.”

Qiu Ningshui’s expression changed, and she said firmly, “I’m different. Once I make a decision, no one else can change it, no matter who it is.” Xie Wendong leaned forward and asked, “What if it’s me?” Qiu Ningshui avoided his gaze, turning her face to the side, and replied indifferently, “It’s the same for anyone.”

Xie Wendong sighed, leaned back in his chair, and said, “I always thought we could become close friends.” Qiu Ningshui was shaken and said sadly, “Aren’t we already?” Xie Wendong replied calmly, “If so, then there are some things I need to say, and you need to listen. I won’t do anything that would harm a friend, especially you.” After a pause, seeing Qiu Ningshui with her head lowered, he knew she was listening and slowly continued, “You’ve never been to Myanmar, never seen the Golden Triangle, nor experienced its wars. You haven’t seen their methods. There, they treat human lives as worthless, killing indiscriminately. I don’t want you to become one of their targets.”

Qiu Ningshui’s shoulders trembled. She raised her head and looked straight at Xie Wendong, saying, “I don’t care. I’m not afraid of death, let alone the Golden Triangle.”

Xie Wendong saw no trace of hesitation in her eyes—only an extraordinary determination. If a person isn’t afraid of death, what in the world could frighten them? Qiu Ningshui was very much like Xie Wendong. Although the latter claimed to be easy to persuade, both of them had a stubborn streak deep within. Whatever Xie Wendong decided to do, he would do it, even if it meant suffering severe consequences; he could still find pleasure in it. The same was true for Qiu Ningshui. Especially after those gray memories, she no longer feared death but even felt a sense of longing for it. Xie Wendong could sense her thoughts and shook his head silently, deciding not to speak anymore.

At that moment, the waiter brought two glasses of beer. Qiu Ningshui picked up her glass, smiled, and said, “You’ve come, but I haven’t said welcome yet. Let’s toast to you!”

Xie Wendong raised his glass and smiled, “Just seeing you happy is the greatest welcome for me.”

Qiu Ningshui said, “I have to work early tomorrow. After drinking this, I’ll have to leave. Shall we toast?” Xie Wendong wanted to say more, but looking into her star-like black eyes, he pursed his lips and ultimately stayed silent. He gently clinked his glass against hers and said, “Cheers!” They drank it all at once. Qiu Ningshui set down her empty glass, picked up her handbag, and stood up, saying, “I’m leaving first. I have a day off the day after tomorrow. I’ll spend some time with you properly then.”

Seeing Qiu Ningshui about to leave, Xie Wendong stared at the empty glass in front of him. After a while, he took a deep breath, stood up, and gently placed his hand on Qiu Ningshui’s shoulder, saying, “Ningshui, remember one thing.”

Through her clothes, Qiu Ningshui could clearly feel the heat in Xie Wendong’s palm. Looking up, she saw a concerned and serious face. She smiled and asked, “Why are you being so serious?” Xie Wendong said slowly, “Remember, no matter when or what you do, I will always support you. If the sky falls, I’ll hold it up. If anyone tries to harm you, they’ll have to step over my body first.”

These words moved Qiu Ningshui deeply. Her strong exterior shattered, and tears welled in her eyes. After all, she was just a woman, and perhaps even more in need of a safe haven, a place to heal her wounds. She wanted to throw herself into Xie Wendong’s arms, but she ordered herself not to. She stepped back and choked out, “Why be so good to me? I don’t need anyone’s sympathy.” Xie Wendong felt pain in his heart but said firmly, “We’re friends, confidants, aren’t we?! No one can hurt you as long as I’m alive.” Qiu Ningshui didn’t dare look at Xie Wendong, let alone into his eyes, fearing she wouldn’t be able to control herself.

Qiu Ningshui left, or rather, fled in panic. Ren Changfeng and Jiang Sen exchanged glances, surprised but mostly helpless, unsure whether Brother Dong had come to persuade or encourage her. Ren Changfeng winked at Jiang Sen and then pursed his lips. Jiang Sen understood what he meant, stood up, and walked over to Xie Wendong, whispering, “Brother Dong!”

Xie Wendong stared blankly at the seat where Qiu Ningshui had sat. Without looking up, he asked, “What?” Jiang Sen said cautiously, “Brother Dong, what you said just now isn’t true, is it? You’re not really going to go against the Golden Triangle, are you?” Xie Wendong came back to his senses, looked up at Jiang Sen, and smiled narrowed-eyed, “No.” Jiang Sen was stunned and asked, “Then what about what you said to Qiu Ningshui…?”

Xie Wendong said seriously, “What I said is true. I certainly won’t let Qiu Ningshui suffer any more harm.” “Then…” Jiang Sen was confused, and Ren Changfeng too. Xie Wendong replied, “It depends on human effort. I don’t believe there’s no way to achieve a win-win situation.” Basically, this is very difficult! Jiang Sen and Ren Changfeng added in their minds.

“Haha!” At that moment, hearty laughter came from the direction of the door. Xie Wendong was familiar with this voice—very familiar. He was shocked. Looking up, as expected, the slightly overweight Old Ghost was staggering toward him. Xie Wendong shook his head and laughed, standing up and saying, “Am I going blind?!”

Lao Gui nodded and said, “No, there’s definitely nothing wrong with your eyesight.” As he spoke, he walked up to Xie Wendong, sized him up from head to toe, and muttered, “Still the same as before!” Then he sat down on the chair next to him. Xie Wendong looked at this casual and uninvited guest and said, “I thought I was good at surprising people. It seems you are. Brother Gui, how did you know I was here?” “Hehe!” Lao Gui grinned mischievously. “I knew as soon as I brought you off the plane.” “Huh!” Xie Wendong was secretly shocked but kept a calm expression and said, “What an excellent network of informants!”
“There’s no other way!” Lao Gui sighed. “In our line of work, without a reliable network of informants, you’re at risk of getting killed at any moment.”
Xie Wendong nodded in agreement and said, “That makes sense!” He waved his hand to call over a waiter, ordered two more drinks, then sat down and said to Lao Gui, “Brother Gui, you didn’t come just to show off your network of informants in front of me, did you?” Lao Gui adopted a serious expression and said, “What are you talking about, younger brother Xie? Although this place is under Chinese control, I’m much more familiar with it than you are. I could almost be considered a local boss. Since you’re here, I have to fulfill my role as a host. How could I not come and check things out?!”
Xie Wendong laughed heartily. This old fellow was truly cunning, speaking more smoothly than singing. He said, “You saw Qiu Ningshui leave just now, right?”
“Sigh!” Lao Gui nodded and exclaimed, “Brother is really amazing! With just a few words, he made that tigress cry and run away. Impressive!”
Xie Wendong smiled without saying anything, inwardly cursing Lao Gui for his lack of restraint. Soon, the drinks were served. Xie Wendong gave Lao Gui a signal, took a small sip, then listened to the deep music in the bar with a smile, tapping his fingers gently on the table to the rhythm. He could stay calm, but Lao Gui couldn’t. Seeing his relaxed demeanor, Lao Gui got straight to the point and asked, “What’s become of that shipment?” Xie Wendong remained silent, narrowing his eyes slightly, slowly raising his glass, and taking another small sip.
Seeing his reaction, Lao Gui grew anxious. If it were anyone else, he might have already thrown the table over and left, but since it was Xie Wendong sitting in front of him, he had to endure it. Not only because of their relationship but also because of Xie Wendong’s strength. He leaned forward and said irritably, “At least give me an answer! I need to give a report to the general too.” Xie Wendong raised his eyebrows slightly and asked, “You seem to be quite powerful in Kunming!”

Lao Gui was left at a loss by his inexplicable question and took some time before frowning and saying, “What do you mean by that?” Xie Wendong smiled and replied, “Nothing, just curious.” Lao Gui was furious inwardly and said sourly, “Average, I guess. My strength is only so much.” Xie Wendong asked again, “So how does that compare to the influence of Nan Hongmen here?” Lao Gui pondered for a moment before saying thoughtfully, “I guess it’s about even.” Xie Wendong knew Lao Gui too well; from his tone, he could tell he was exaggerating. Smirking, he took another slow sip of wine, appearing calm yet with his mind racing. After a few seconds of hesitation, he declared, “In three days, send someone to collect the goods.”
Lao Gui widened his eyes and looked at Xie Wendong skeptically, “Are you kidding me?” Xie Wendong laughed and said, “When have I ever lied to you?!” Lao Gui thought carefully and then nodded firmly, confirming, “Indeed, never.” “So,” Xie Wendong said, “if I say three days, it means three days—no need to question it.” Lao Gui replied, “Since you say so, what else can I do? I’ll wait for your news in three days.” With that, he drained his glass in one gulp, stood up, and prepared to leave. Before going, he said, “Once this is done, the two of us should get together properly.” Xie Wendong knew he was eager to discuss things with the general, so he didn’t keep him. Nodding, he said, “Anyway, you’ll definitely have to go to some expense.” Lao Gui laughed heartily and said, “It’s no big deal.”
Lao Gui exchanged a few more polite words with Xie Wendong before leaving in a hurry. Once he was gone, Ren Changfeng, filled with questions, could no longer hold back. He went over to Xie Wendong and asked, “Brother Dong, Qiu Ningshui still hasn’t relented, and it seems she won’t either. What will we give the Golden Triangle in three days?”
Xie Wendong replied, “I naturally have a way to ensure they can’t find us or Qiu Ningshui.” “What method?” Not only was Ren Changfeng puzzled, but Jiang Sen was equally confused, unable to understand what Xie Wendong was thinking. Xie Wendong smiled at the two of them and said, “We think our whereabouts are well hidden, but that’s not the case. As Lao Gui just said, we were spotted by his spies as soon as we got off the plane. Lao Gui does have considerable influence in Kunming, but it’s still somewhat inferior to that of Nan Hongmen, which is locally rooted. If Lao Gui could track us down, then Nan Hongmen’s branch in Kunming has no reason not to know we’ve arrived here.”
Ah! Jiang Sen and Ren Changfeng both gasped in shock, asking, “If that’s the case, aren’t we in great danger now?”