The turn of events did not disrupt Xia Lei’s research on the fighter jet and bomber plane. The only difference was that he had to do his work in the Peace Mansion’s study instead.
As soon as he entered the room, he worked until it was evening. Before he could leave the study, Tang Yuyan entered through the doors. The woman was dripping with exhaustion.
Xia Lei’s heart clenched at her state. “You shouldn’t work yourself too hard now that you’re pregnant. You should really rest more at home. If you really can’t do that, maybe it’s best to apply for leave.”
“I’d like that too but I can’t afford it now.” Tang Yuyan continued, “Let’s talk about the Nigerian mine. I’ve just received news from the intelligence officers. The area where the Alliance Mine is located is now under regional lock by the Boko Haram armed members. Our personnel and technicians over there are exposed to great risks. Currently, the relevant authorities are in the middle of a discussion for a rescue mission.”
“Tianyin mentioned that the Vientiane Group had made sure to befriend the local armed groups. They even made considerable donations to the local mosques. It’s evident that they’re doing a good job managing their relationship with the locals. Nothing majorly wrong has happened throughout these years. The sudden turn of events must be under the influence of someone,” Xia Lei deduced.
Tang Yuyan muttered, “You mean… The real person in control of the area are Americans?”
“Most likely.” Xia Lei replied, “Another possibility is that the Boko Haram group has already found out about the mine’s value and is preparing to dominate the area for their interests. However, the possibility is low. If the Boko Haram knew about it, how would the Nigerian government know nothing? If the Nigerian government was notified, they would’ve sent their army out. Yet, nothing has been done by the Nigerian military till now.”
“I share the same thought. Based on your analysis, the former scenario bears a higher possibility. The Americans had gained control over the area through the Boko Haram group.” Tang Yuyan looked pissed. “They’re so barbaric! I can’t believe they actually dare to shoot down our helicopters and cooperate with terrorists!”
Xia Lei wrapped his arms around her waist. He smiled. “Why are you so angry? You’re pregnant, you know? If you get mad and emotional, the baby might be harmed.”
Tang Yuyan was still angry. “ISIS is a prime example. The Americans were supportive of ISIS in the beginning, but look at how much damage the terrorists had brought upon the Middle Easterners? The final goal the Americans are aiming for is full control over the Middle East.”
“Everything is undoubtedly about interest. That’s enough, Yuyan. There’s no need to be so mad. Come, let me calm you down.” Xia Lei pressed a palm against Tang Yuyan’s chest and began to caress her gently.
The technique seemed to work really well as a smile quickly bloomed across Tang Yuyan’s face. “Hehe… Oh, come on. You’re not trying to comfort me, you’re literally taking advantage of my mood.”
“Then shall I take full advantage of you?” Xia Lei whispered seductively into her ear.
Redness crept up her ears instantly. She hummed a light reply. “Mmph.”
And so happened that Shentu Tianyin had chosen to appear at the study’s entrance when things were getting heated. Noticing their entangled form and Xia Lei’s palm hovering over her chest, Shentu Tianyin quickly backed away and averted her gaze elsewhere.
Xia Lei and Tang Yuyan panicked and peeled themselves apart. The former made a frantic attempt to tidy up her rumpled blouse.
Shentu Tianyin was still standing beside the door as she willed to swallow her indescribable pain. This happiness could’ve been hers and only hers but Shentu Tianyin had messed it all up.
In the study, Xia Lei cleared his throat. “Tianyin, is everything alright?”
“Dinner’s ready so I’m here to inform you.” It was only then that Shentu Tianyin showed her body from behind the door frame. She was actively avoiding Xia Lei and Tang Yuyan’s eyes.
Xia Lei felt like burying himself. “Oh, I see. Let’s go eat dinner then.”
Tang Yuyan said, “Hubby, you may go ahead. I’ll like to speak to Tianyin for a moment.”
“Uh… Sure. Take your time.” Xia Lei left.
Though he had a dying curiosity to find out what their conversation would be about, he was decent enough to not use his X-ray vision to spy on them. He was fully capable of that but did not wish to do so. Everyone deserved to have their own privacy and that had included all of his wives.
In the study, the women lock gazes. The atmosphere was rather rigid and uncomfortable.
Tang Yuyan broke the silence. “Tianyin, are you… Are you alright?”
Shentu Tianyin flashed her a bitter smile. “What else could happen to me? I’m fine, don’t worry. It may have been tough after the divorce but I’ve already moved on from that.”
“I promised that I’ll help you out before. All you need to do is ask and I’ll provide my assistance. Anything within my capabilities can be done for you,” reminded Tang Yuyan.
Shentu Tianyin studied Tang Yuyan. “So you’re saying that if I wish to join this family, you’re willing to help me out?”
The other woman nodded. “Yes. I’ll agree to that and I’ll even try my best to convince Xia Lei if that is your wish.”
Unexpectedly, Shentu Tianyin shook her head. “I can guess the circumstances you went through to marry Xia Lei. You’re experiencing tough times, so there’s no need to burden yourself with my affairs. Your compliance will be met with four other resistances. It wasn’t easy for you to blend into the family too. I do not wish to ruin your relationship with them and I certainly do not wish to destroy Xia Lei’s family. I’m so glad to see you so happy now.”
“But you…” Tang Yuyan wasn’t expecting Shentu Tianyin’s rejection.
Shentu Tianyin assured, “What I desire is different from yours. There really is no need to entertain me. But I’d still like to thank you for your kindness.”
Tang Yuyan sighed. “Alright then. But my promise is still valid. If you should require my help, just come seek me out.”
“Alright. Thank you so much. Now let’s go to them for dinner,” said Shentu Tianyin.
There was one new presence in the dining hall. Tonight, Liang Siyao’s father, Liang Zhengchun was going to join them for dinner.
Liang Zhengchun was currently having a blast with Liang Jiayu in his arms.
“Jiayu, when you’ve grown bigger, would you let grandpa teach you Wing Chun?” Liang Zhengchun brandished a wide grin, his eyes glimmering with anticipation.
Liang Jiayu smacked his palms against Liang Zhengchun’s lips and then tugged at the latter’s moustache.
“Ow… Ow…” Liang Zhengchun groaned.
Liang Siyao rushed over to spank Liang Jiayu’s little buttocks lightly. “Jiayu, release grandpa’s moustache at once. Let go, now! Don’t make me hit you again.”
Liang Jiayu refused to release Liang Zhengchun’s moustache. The baby mumbled, “Ah beat beat beat beat beat…”
Liang Siyao was perplexed.
Yet, Liang Zhengchun was overjoyed to hear his grandson ramble. “Good attack, Jiayu. Come on, continue hitting.”
Liang Siyao rolled her eyes at Liang Zhengchun. “Jeez, you’re spoiling him rotten. If you continue to spoil him like this, I’m going to ignore you forever.”
“Your mom sure is fussy. Let’s go out and play.” Liang Zhengchun carried Liang Jiayu away and brought his milk bottle along.
Xia Lei appeared in the nick of time. “Master, are you not joining us for dinner?”
“I’m not hungry yet. I’m bringing Jiayu out to play for a bit. You guys go ahead, there’s no need to worry about us both.” With that, Liang Zhengchun whisked the little baby away.
“Where’s Yuyan and Shentu Tianyin?” asked Fan Fan.
“They’re right behind me,” said Xia Lei.
“I’ll go serve the dishes now.” Jiang Ruyi moved to the rice cooker.
Fan Fan reported, “I have yet to receive any information on my side. The embassy marshall had escorted someone over but there are no updates from them. We’ve got no military bases overseas and this situation forces us to be passive.”
Xia Lei could only sigh. “I think they’re not going to make it back.”
“Who would dare to intervene?” Fan Fan wasn’t convinced with Xia Lei’s theory.
Xia Lei explained, “The Americans are probably trying to hide all tracks in Nigeria. The simplest way around that would be to kill any witnesses. They’re bullying us for the fact we’ve got no military bases outside of the country. We literally have no way to protect our interests elsewhere. I’m guessing that Boko Haram is controlling the area on the surface but America’s best Special Force troops have already entered the same area.”
“If that’s the case, they’re really going over the line this time,” fumed Fan Fan.
“There’s only one rule in this world. The iron fist. No law can tie a fist hard enough to break through its grasp. The same applies to human hierarchy and countries,” said Xia Lei.
At that moment, Tang Yuyan and Shentu Tianyin entered the dining hall.
“Come on, let’s eat.” Jiang Ruyi offered them a smile. “Let’s not talk about those troubling things. The dishes are already going cold.”
It was only then that the big family started to eat.
After dinner, everyone remained in the living room for playtime with the children. Shentu Tianyin joined them in on the fun. She decided that she really liked children, especially Xia Lei’s children.
Doot doot doot… Doot doot doot…
Xia Lei’s satellite phone began to ring.
It was a call from Giovanna.
“Boss, our brothers from the Relief Society have received some information.” Giovanna’s voice rang through. “The Alliance Mine had already been surrounded by American Special Forces. But its outer ring had consisted of the Boko Haram armed members. It seems like the Americans had achieved a deal with the Boko Haram locals.”
“Is there anything else?”
“Another brother in the intel team mentioned that he has a friend working for the Alliance Mine. It is true that they’ve excavated a rare metal from the site. The American’s appearance is a testament to the finding,” reported Giovanna.
“Understood. Make relevant arrangements. I’m going to Nigeria,” replied Xia Lei.,
“Got it. I’ll start planning now.” Giovanna hung up.
Liang Siyao paced over with a worried expression. “Hubby, you’re going to Nigeria? That place is in chaos. It’s going to be really dangerous. How are we supposed to sleep well knowing that you’re there?”
Fan Fan joined in. “Hubby, can you not go there? I know the rare metal is important to the country but you shouldn’t shoulder the danger alone. You’ve got the whole country behind you and if you can give me a little more time. We will find a solution to this.”
Xia Lei was firm with his stand. “There’s no alternative approach to this issue. We’ve got no international military bases and our army won’t be able to reach the area. The only alternative I can think of is imposing sanctions but the Americans will probably ignore us. They only believe in their power. That’s why I need to show them our power.”
Long Bing said, “Bring me along. I’ll come with you.”
Liang Siyao offered, “I’ll go too.”
Xia Lei frowned. “What the hell are you thinking? The children are still so young. Can you bear to be separated from them?”
Long Bing’s gaze fell onto Xia Long, her eyes immediately softening like butter.
Though Liang Jiayu was out of sight, Liang Siyao felt her heart clench at the thought of her son. There was no way she could make a firm decision on going to Nigeria.
Xia Lei said, “Don’t worry. If I can make it out from Area 51 alive, I’ll be able to come back from Nigeria safely.”
That seemed to silence both Long Bing and Liang Siyao effectively. They knew nothing could change Xia Lei’s mind.
