He Muqing's face was as red as if it had been scorched—so red it seemed about to drip with water. An elaborate, self-orchestrated drama had left her humiliated before her grandfather and Qin Feng. Every time she thought of phrases like, "He's already hers" or "They fell in love at first sight," she felt utterly ashamed. She didn't resent her grandfather at all—after all, it was she who had fled the wedding, so it was only natural that Wei Qingtian would come to her. What she truly resented was Qin Feng. How could he not be more composed? At the Public Security Bureau, he was so visibly restless—holding onto Xiao Jing's hand as they went out together, instead of simply hugging her! Holding and hugging might sound similar, but she didn't care. In her eyes, as long as Qin Feng could be a little more composed, the entire performance would never have unraveled—and certainly not so completely. Old Wei watched his granddaughter with a smile, thinking: "You've completely botched your act now—see how stubborn you still are. This trip to Pingyang City has truly been worthwhile; it's been absolutely fascinating. He cleared his throat and said to Qin Feng, "The intelligence on Death Island—that was exactly what you provided, wasn't it? I've never personally thanked you in person, so I'm perfectly happy to do so now." "Mr. Wei, you're too kind," Qin, the young man, now acted with humble grace toward his senior. After all, he had just embarrassed his superiors. If only he were facing his grandfather directly, He Muqing would have rushed over and bitten him to pieces. In her heart, she kept repeating the word "elegant" over and over again. The old man was satisfied with his performance and continued smiling, saying, "This time, removing the local power factions from their roots—your contribution has been significant. Don't worry, our government has always adhered to the principle of rewarding merit and holding accountable those who fall short. Your recognition will be implemented promptly." The young woman, still unconvinced, replied, "It was my command from the front this time, didn't you notice? You're showing bias—why aren't you recognizing my efforts?" The old man narrowed his eyes, saying, "Without Qin Feng and his friends' support, would you have had the opportunity to take charge? To compete for credit with your subordinates—what would be the point of that?" "Exactly—what's the point?" Qin, the young man, looked more than unimpressed at that moment, and even went on to complain to the old man, "Grandfather, you don't know—she doesn't just take credit; she actively sets obstacles for her subordinates and 'sacrifices' them." "Silence? Then nobody treats you as mute." Hei Muqing quickly interrupted him. If her grandfather found out that she had repeatedly extorted her subordinates—collecting not only money but also various items, totaling over several hundred thousand yuan—her legs would surely be broken. Wei Qingtian huffed, "Hei Director, what a show of authority! Have you really forgotten our army's traditions so quickly? We've always championed open dialogue and diverse opinions. Are you now only seeking a mere restriction on speech?" Wow, what a big hat he's wearing! Qin, the young gentleman, felt deeply embarrassed by his grandfather's remarks. Didn't you treat your ordinary people just like this? Why boast of such lofty ideals? He sympathized with Hei Director. Having been shaped by his grandfather's mindset since childhood, it wasn't simply a matter of being "troubled" that could capture it. "Actually, she works very diligently." He couldn't help but lean toward his side, saying, "The success we've achieved in handling the Shengmen matter truly reflects her strong leadership. After all, it took coordination and liaison efforts among no fewer than several dozen cities—just managing that alone is no easy task. With Director He working tirelessly for several nights, addressing any issue as it arose, we were able to maintain consistency throughout the operation." Hearing this, the elder nodded with deep satisfaction, saying, "Little Qing has always been a capable child—something I've never doubted." He Muqing pouted, giving Qin Feng a withering look, clearly implying that such small gestures were nothing to her. Qin, the young noble, went on to praise her so thoroughly that the elder couldn't help but smile broadly, clapping his hands enthusiastically whenever the highlights came. Director He, though he didn't say so outright, was deeply grateful in his heart. Finally, the elder slammed the table, declaring, "The establishment of the Special Operations Team has proven to be absolutely necessary." Once I return to the capital, I'll personally present you with honors and begin expanding your organization. How can a few people possibly handle it? Hu leader was thrilled—she had long worried that her organization would be cut down. Now, with the elder's support, it's certain to grow significantly, reaching an unprecedented scale. She immediately reported on Xiu Luo's situation to the elder, requesting that Lu Man also join the organization. The elder, in high spirits, readily agreed without hesitation: "Even Fengmo can be brought under my command—how much more so a Xiu Luo? Whenever outstanding talents emerge, you should go after them relentlessly. Your grandfather will be your solid backer." In strict terms, this statement is nothing short of a royal decree. Yet Qin Feng sensed a subtle undercurrent of strategy in her earlier words, though he still couldn't quite grasp the direction of the plot. Hu leader was delighted, and immediately began cooing at the old man. The old man was also pleased, yet he didn't forget the purpose of his visit. On purpose, he kept his face stern and said, "Qing, regarding your marriage, I think you should seriously consider it. The prospective match is really excellent—well-off financially, highly educated, and quite refined in demeanor." He Muqing wasn't as passionate as he had initially appeared—how could it be otherwise, when family ties and emotions are often the most powerful forces shaping a person's decisions? Truly, it takes an iron heart to completely set them aside and ignore them. An observer's perspective, Qin said with a smile, proposing, "Why don't we give the senior leadership six months? If, within that time, she still can't find her true love, then she'll return to Beijing and marry the person you've arranged for her—how does that sound?" He Muqing immediately glared at him—where exactly was he standing? Of course, on your side. Brother, you're not stupid—what benefit could there possibly be in aligning with your grandfather? Wouldn't you have to keep giving me little troubles every day? The old man thought it over and nodded to himself—this was indeed a reasonable compromise. Pressing too hard wasn't beneficial; in fact, it had been precisely the urgency that had prompted his granddaughter to leave home just recently. He nodded and said, "Then fine. Before the Spring Festival, as long as you bring your boyfriend home and secure your family's approval, that'll be settled. Otherwise, you'll just have to marry someone else quietly."