Momo's Gradual Change

C93. The Dangers of Excessive Wisdom.

Chapter 93: The Dangers of Excessive Wisdom

As they chatted, it became clear that Yi Mo was again at the center of things.

Overcome with joy, He Yi hugged Yi Mo tight, planting a big kiss on her cheek. "Our Yi Mo is truly incredible."

This warmth filled Song Yimo with happiness and a touch of shyness. She touched her cheek, where the kiss still lingered, and looked down to sip her tea.

Miao Jun, however, seemed lost in thought. His brows furrowed briefly before he softened his expression, an inner concern unspoken.

Watching this, Zhai Muyang quietly took note, resolving to bring it up at a later time.

"Although things have largely been settled," Zhai Muyang cautioned, "until we come to a final agreement with the government, there's always a chance things might change, so…"

Miao Jun nodded, "We understand. We won’t speak of this to anyone outside."

He Yi quickly agreed. "Absolutely not. We would never jeopardize your work."

Zhai Muyang smiled. "It’s not that extreme. At this point, it's not like there's a fierce competition for these resources. Right now, I’m the only one in talks with the government, and they're just as keen to see this project succeed as I am."

Seeing that everyone’s tea cups were almost empty, Zhai Muyang stood, fetching a kettle to refill them, while he mused aloud. "The tea here in Xinghu is unique. I’m planning to make it one of the area’s signature specialties."

"But you won’t sell it like other touristy places do, will you?" Song Yimo asked, looking him squarely in the eye. "Can we make sure?"

"Of course," Zhai Muyang reassured her. "Any input you give, I’ll always consider." After setting down the kettle, he reached over, touching her head with a soft smile. "This is your hometown. Soon it will be mine, too. I’d never think of exploiting it for quick profit."

"Thank you, Dage."

"There’s no need for thanks," Zhai Muyang replied, gently flicking her forehead. "When done right, it’s not just the place that thrives—it’s all of us. Once the tea gains popularity, we’ll need suppliers, so if you have any honest people in mind, feel free to mention it to them. But remember, quality has to come first. I won’t risk a good name just because of personal ties."

He Yi immediately thought of her brother's family, who had been struggling lately. Despite their flaws, she knew his wife only wanted to secure a stable life for their children. She glanced at her husband but chose not to speak.

Miao Jun, on the other hand, seemed more contemplative. "Yi Mo, was this your suggestion?"

Song Yimo looked like she wanted to deny it, but her face quickly betrayed her.

Understanding dawned on He Yi, and for a moment, she felt lost for words. "Yi Mo, child, you really are…"

"It's only natural to want good things for your family," Grandma Song chuckled. "Every family struggles in its own way. He Liang is diligent and filial. Had it not been for your parents’ illness, he wouldn’t be in his current position. Given our families ties go way back, and if we can help, then it’s only right."

With misty eyes, He Yi’s voice quavered. "Thank you for remembering my brother. While I want the best for him, this is different from running a shop. If anything went wrong, I don’t know how I’d face you, Muyang."

"You're overthinking it," Zhai Muyang chuckled. "It’s not so delicate. A heads-up gives him a fair shot, but he’ll still have to pull his weight like anyone else. Besides," he turned to Yi Mo, "I know how much she wishes well for everyone around her, so I’m hardly about to refuse her."

His words were an acknowledgment that he was extending this opportunity to He Liang specifically because of Yi Mo. He wanted the Miao family to understand that their support for Yi Mo over the years hadn’t gone unnoticed. She thought of them as her own and always sought ways to return their kindness.

He Yi took Yi Mo's hands in hers and gave them a warm squeeze. "Yi Mo, I’ll always remember your kindness."

"What’s all this ‘remembering’ talk?” Grandma Song said, smiling. “Why can’t she return your kindness?”

She looked at Yi Mo with pride. If only Song Zhi had been a little more caring, surely Emoke would still have remembered him fondly in her heart. Raised under her watchful eye, Yi Mo was someone who knew how to cherish and repay good will as much as she bore grudges—an unmistakable trait she inherited from her family.

Miao Zhiruo said little, merely smiling back when Song Yimo looked her way. But inside, her heart stirred with thoughts.

This sister of hers had not only helped her family set up their business but had also given them the capital to start, even mapped out a future for her. Now, merely because of a passing remark, Song Yimo had also arranged support for her family’s sake. She had done so much for them all.

They were sisters, bound by loyalty rather than debts.

Miao Zhiruo swore to herself that regardless of where life took her, she would give all she had to support Yi Mo whenever the need arose.

Miao Jun gestured to Zhai Muyang. "I’m off to buy a pack of cigarettes."

"Cut back on those," He Yi grumbled. "You nearly quit, but now you’ve picked it up again!"

"He's feeling the pressure," Yi Mo said, noticing he looked thinner. "Miao Dad, please try to smoke less."

"I know my limits."

A few moments later, Zhai Muyang also rose. "I need to step out and make a call."

Song Yimo raised an eyebrow, amused. It seemed the others truly bought their excuses. She was certain they just wanted a private word.

Out in the courtyard of the old neighborhood, where the trees were beginning to bud, Miao Jun felt the tension ease slightly as he glimpsed the fresh green sprouts.

"I’ve been trying to learn the ropes of this trade lately. I’m not without progress, but Yi Mo, bright as she is, is still so young. You shouldn’t make decisions against your own judgment for her sake."

Zhai Muyang offered him a cigarette, lighting it as he replied, "I have my own principles, but those Yi Mo cares about, I’ll help them where I can. Still, I’ll make sure to keep things fair and mutually beneficial." He paused. "I’ve been sampling tea from Xinghu and bringing it abroad when I travel. Honestly, it’s excellent. With the right presentation, there’s real potential here. Although the selection is currently limited, I’m considering hiring specialists to develop it further. Who knows, one day Xinghu might become famous not only for its scenery but also for its tea."

"That would be a true blessing for us in Xinghu," Miao Jun sighed. "If that’s the case, I won’t question your judgment. In matters of business, you’re the experienced one here."

Zhai Muyang gave a faint smile. "I’m flattered, Uncle Miao."

But then, Miao Jun grew serious, his gaze distant. "Muyang, do me a favor and talk to Yi Mo. She’s always got something on her mind. Those who burn so brightly often burn out faster. I can’t help but worry."

Zhai Muyang’s expression grew thoughtful. He nodded solemnly. "I feel the same. Yi Mo is sharp, sometimes a little too sharp for her age. She shouldn’t have to shoulder so much alone."

"Exactly."