Chapter 23: The Fictionalized Ji Ling

Ji Shu was also taken aback by Ji Ling’s words. Moments ago, he had assumed He Qinhua was merely boasting, never imagining that things were exactly as she had described.

New calculations stirred in Ji Shu’s mind. He retrieved a document from his briefcase and handed it to Village Chief Hua. "Village Chief Hua, this is my letter of appointment. From now on, I will be stationed here in Shixi Village, with full authority over all aspects of the breeding projects. Ji Ling may stay on to assist."

The announcement fell like a bombshell. The crowd stood frozen, stunned, before turning their gazes toward Ji Ling.

The results were not even out yet, and already someone was itching to swoop in and harvest the fruits of another’s labor.

Unexpectedly, Ji Ling let out a laugh. "My, how can I ever thank you enough, Deputy Director Ji? I had just suggested to the Village Chief that he recruit someone new, seeing as I only ever intended to fill the role temporarily. Now, with you here, I am certain our village’s development will undergo a radical transformation. Isn't that right, everyone?"

Secretary Li had grown anxious the moment Ji Shu pulled out his paperwork; anyone with eyes could see under whose leadership the project stood a better chance of thriving. Hearing Ji Ling’s words, his weathered face creased into a smile as he chimed in, "Indeed. With Deputy Director Ji at the helm, our two villages will surely see even greater progress."

Ji Shu’s expression darkened, and just as he was about to lose his temper, Director Gui interjected, "Ji Ling, would you reconsider what I said earlier and join us at the Women’s Federation?"

Ji Ling pondered for a moment before shaking her head. "Director Gui, I am very grateful for the opportunity. I know I shouldn’t refuse, but as I said before, I must prepare for the opening of the school, so I must apologize."

Director Gui looked disappointed; she truly believed Ji Ling was a talent, and it was a pity.

"However, Shen Cong’an and the educated youth Zhao Xianghong from our village are quite capable. For your visit, they specifically wrote a script and rehearsed a program. I believe they would be a better fit for you."

Ji Ling felt that since Zhao Xianghong had made a gesture of goodwill, she didn't mind returning the favor. Furthermore, she wanted to use this opportunity to test whether Zhao Xianghong could be of use to her.

Director Gui raised an eyebrow. "Very well. Deputy Director Ji, let’s go take a look; we shouldn't disappoint the children."

Ji Shu snorted, turned on his heel, and walked away. Director Gui looked embarrassed and had no choice but to follow him. Village Chief Hua, suffering from a headache, moved his lips as if to speak, but ultimately resigned himself to chasing after them.

The performance was held at the threshing floor, which was large enough to accommodate an audience. By the time Ji Ling and Shen Yi arrived, the area was packed with people several layers deep. After all, entertainment in rural areas during this time was scarce, if not entirely non-existent.

Ji Ling listened for a while, but her interest waned; she felt it would be better to go back and continue working on her proposal.

Noticing the shift in her mood, Shen Yi whispered, "Shall we leave? Let Village Chief Hua and Secretary Li handle the bigwigs and take the credit."

Ji Ling smiled faintly. "Wouldn't that be a bit rude?"

Shen Yi gave a disdainful hum. After a moment’s hesitation, he took Ji Ling’s hand and led her away, his voice gentle. "Those people only know how to be shameless when given an inch. Don’t take it to heart."

Ji Ling looked down at the ground; the night had deepened, and she could barely see the path. Her voice was cool and detached. "I’m not angry. What is mine will always be mine, and no one can take it away. Since he chose to strike first, he cannot blame me for retaliating. Anything he snatches from my hands, I will make him cough it back up, double over, flesh and sinew alike."