Chapter 969: Youre Not Too Stupid

Translator:Nyoi-Bo StudioEditor:Nyoi-Bo Studio

To gain favour with her third elder brother and regain her freedom, Zhou Nini adopted the role of a double-faced spy, feeding Zhou Hengguang information about her familys affairs.

She felt a sense of accomplishment in her covert operations, having successfully infiltrated her third brothers vicinity to keep tabs on him for her family. Now, being dispatched back by her third brother, she saw an opportunity to continue her surveillance on her own family.

It seemed like the perfect strategy, pleasing both sides without stepping on any toes.

Whats the latest? Zhou Hengguang inquired, his tone dripping with cynicism.

Its about sister-in-law and the Song family, Zhou Nini responded, aware that Song Zishan was brewing something unsettling even after her return to the capital.

Zhou Hengguangs smirk hinted at his antic.i.p.ation. Seems like Song Zishan still has some tricks up her sleeve.

Shes not one to let things over, especially after such a substantial loss, Zhou Nini remarked, acknowledging the gravity of the situation.

Zhou Hengguang wasnt surprised by her insight. Youre not completely clueless.

Liang Shuzhen manipulated me. That doesnt make me foolish, Zhou Nini defended herself, feeling betrayed by someone she considered a friend. If Liang Shuzhen no longer valued their friends.h.i.+p, she saw no reason to hold back.

And now, I intend to settle the score, she declared, her determination evident.

Zhou Hengguang sneered, criticizing her for tarnis.h.i.+ng the familys reputation. Youve dragged down the intelligence of the entire Zhou clan. Are you even one of us?

Zhou Nini fought back tears, stung by his harsh words. Being deemed unworthy of her family cut deep.

The Zhou family is known for its intellect and grace, Zhou Hengguang continued, contrasting her shortcomings with the familys esteemed traits.

Hengguang straightforwardly remarked, Initially, the dimmest one in our family was Little Aunt, but now with you as a comparison, its evident she still has some redeeming qualities. Despite her lack of focus, she has a good grasp of life.

Unable to bear the humiliation, Zhou Nini silently wept, feeling like an outcast among her accomplished relatives.

The Zhou family members werent just known for their intelligence and wit; they boasted a lineup of handsome men and beautiful women.

Yet she didnt quite fit into either category. Despite being above average in appearance, she couldnt help but feel like a flaw in the otherwise impeccable Zhou family lineage. In the previous generation, it was Little Aunt who fell short of the familys beauty standards, but now, it seemed to be her turn.

While diminis.h.i.+ng ones physical attractiveness wasnt the primary concern, maintaining intellectual prowess was paramount.

With tears br.i.m.m.i.n.g in Zhou Ninis eyes, she couldnt shake off the feeling of being unwanted.

As Zhou Hengguang continued his scathing remarks, Zhou Nini struggled to maintain her composure, silently lamenting her fate.

Youre cruel, Zhou Nini whimpered, her heart heavy with sorrow.

Youre just realizing that now? Zhou Hengguang retorted, unmoved by her distress.

Ive known for a long time, Zhou Nini confessed, resigned to her fate. But each time, you manage to surpa.s.s my expectations.

Say it again, he said.

I wont say anymore, she added hastily, recognizing the danger of provoking him further.

With a heavy heart, Zhou Nini continued to relay information to her brother, her spirit dampened by his relentless criticism.

Dont be upset, Big Brother. Theres still some news I need to share with you, she said, nodding towards the nearby swing set as more people filtered out from the living room and their rooms.

With conversations now buzzing around the dining table, it wasnt an ideal place for their discussion.

So, they retreated to a quiet corner where Zhou Nini resumed her report.

Im curious about what Song Zishan said upon returning to the capital. Initially, Uncle and Aunt were hoping to persuade Big Brother to come back through Su Wen. But now Aunt seems to have s.h.i.+fted her focus. Though she hasnt voiced any dissatisfaction with Su Wen, I have a feeling somethings not right.

It was a rare instance for Zhou Ninis sharp mind to pick up on these subtleties, a testament to her astuteness.