Chapter 993: Calculating Scholar 48

Li Fuze finally relaxed when someone approached him to strike up a conversation. His efforts to bait Boss Liu had not been in vain—the man had taken the hook.

Boss Liu was well known in town for his lustful nature, but he was also famously generous. As long as he was satisfied, money was never an issue. And money was exactly what Li Fuze needed to secure his place in the upcoming autumn imperial exam.

Meanwhile, the poor young woman remained immersed in the joy of her husband buying her jewelry, completely unaware of the calculation and malice hidden beneath his actions.

Even after half a year, Ye Qingtong had not let his guard down regarding Boss Liu.

He frequently sold mountain goods in town and had built connections there. Quietly, he asked acquaintances to keep an eye on Boss Liu’s movements.

So when he heard that Boss Liu had taken an interest in Li Fuze’s wife, Ye Qingtong narrowed his eyes. Something about this didn’t sit right.

Soon after, he arranged for a cart driver from Tangjia Village—someone who regularly transported villagers to town—to keep watch on Li Fuze. After all, anyone traveling to town would likely use the ox cart.

Within a few days, news came: Li Fuze had taken his wife to town again.

After informing Tang Wan, Ye Qingtong immediately followed.

Upon arriving in town, he discovered that Li Fuze had brought his wife to a secluded courtyard. After unlocking the door, the two entered together.

Ye Qingtong frowned.

Li Fuze’s home was in Tangjia Village—so why did he have a residence in town?

Not long after, Li Fuze came out alone, his expression calculating. He headed straight to the jade shop.

When he emerged again, his face carried a satisfied, almost triumphant smile. He even went to the finest restaurant in town for a lavish meal.

The more Ye Qingtong observed, the more suspicious it all became.

He bought a few steamed buns from a roadside stall, ate quickly, and continued his surveillance. He didn’t leave until nightfall.

Finally, his patience paid off.

As dusk deepened, a carriage stopped outside the courtyard.

Moments later, Boss Liu’s short, stout figure appeared at the gate. He knocked.

Soon, Li Fuze came out to greet him—welcoming him inside with exaggerated enthusiasm.

At this, Ye Qingtong’s expression hardened.

After a brief moment of thought, he leapt silently over the wall and into the courtyard.

From his hidden position, their conversation reached his ears clearly.

“Boss Liu, rest assured,” Li Fuze said with a smile. “The one inside is exceptional. Once you experience it, you’ll understand.”

Boss Liu chuckled, rubbing his hands together. “Then tonight, I’ll enjoy myself thoroughly.”

Under Li Fuze’s lead, the two walked toward the inner room.

Inside, the young woman sat with visible unease, her eyes filled with panic and despair. When she looked at Li Fuze, his gaze turned cold and commanding.

Under that pressure, she forced a strained smile.

At that moment, everything became clear to Ye Qingtong.

And because he understood, his anger surged uncontrollably.

Li Fuze… was he even human?

To trade his own wife like this—for money?

A chill ran through him.

Fortunately, Tang Wan had nothing to do with such a man.

Otherwise…

The thought alone made his fists clench tightly, veins bulging as fury rose within him.