Fortune Across the World

Chapter 131: Committed to Reconciliation (Part 2)

The next morning, just as Ding Qiyu had anticipated, the patriarch of the Fu family arrived once again at Yunshu Inn.

After a good rest the previous day, Fu Ruqing was nearly recovered. Outside the reception hall, Ding Qiyu gently stroked Fu Ruqing's cheek through the light veil, her voice filled with affection, "Qing'er, don't forget what you promised me last night." Seeing Fu Ruqing nod obediently, Ding Qiyu accompanied her into the hall.

Upon their entrance, the patriarch's eyes immediately fell on Ding Qiyu.

Amused, Ding Qiyu gave the patriarch a reassuring nod, signaling encouragement. Even someone as composed as the patriarch, who could face the unpredictable world of business without a flinch, became cautious and awkward when it came to family matters.

Not only the patriarch but Fu Ruqing was also nervous. It was the first time in over a decade she was letting go of her grievances towards her father and facing him calmly. The significant shift in mindset was something she was still getting used to.

Seeing Ding Qiyu's confident demeanor, the patriarch realized that the young man must have spoken to Ruqing, so he turned to his daughter and asked, "Ruqing, did you rest well last night? You seem to look better than yesterday." After Ding Qiyu's visit, the patriarch had pondered how to take the first step forward, ultimately deciding to follow Ding Qiyu's advice: put aside his pride and show concern, hoping Ruqing would let go of her grievances soon.

Ding Qiyu lowered her head, thinking to herself that while Qing'er had indeed rested well, she herself had not. Counting sheep by the thousands, she still couldn't fall asleep. They say "it's hard to sleep alone," but Ding Qiyu found that even in an embrace, sleep could be elusive—not due to sadness, but due to a joyful challenge.

Why bring this up again? Fu Ruqing felt her face flush. She nodded slightly, "Yes." After a moment's thought, she added, "Thank you for your concern, Father." She had always assumed her father's inquiries were mere formalities before discussing business. Today, with a calm heart, she realized his questions were genuine expressions of care. In the past, her "thank you" carried a tone of sarcasm, but today, it was sincere.

The patriarch, noticing her rare display of sincerity and the absence of her usual defiant tone, felt uplifted. He laughed, "Haha, no need to thank me. Caring for you is my duty as your father." Seeing them both standing awkwardly, he gestured to the chairs, "Ruqing, Qiyu, why are you standing? Sit down, let's talk."

Qiyu? After just one meeting, and he's already using her given name? Fu Ruqing cast a discreet glance at Ding Qiyu, her eyes playfully accusing, before quietly taking a seat.

Ding Qiyu was equally surprised by the patriarch's use of her name, feeling both honored and encouraged. It seemed Qing'er's father had a favorable impression of her, so she promptly sat down beside Fu Ruqing.

Once seated, silence enveloped the room. The atmosphere was so quiet that even a pin drop would be audible. The patriarch wanted to speak but was unsure what to say. Fu Ruqing, naturally reserved and still adjusting to the change in their relationship, remained silent. With the two of them quiet, Ding Qiyu felt it inappropriate to initiate a conversation.

Ultimately, it was the patriarch who broke the silence, determined to "take the first step." He braved the awkwardness and asked, "Ruqing, um, when do you plan to visit the mines?" He had reverted to discussing business, not because he wanted to, but because he didn't know what else to talk about with his daughter. Once he spoke, he felt apprehensive, fearing another retort from her.