Taking Matters in Hand

At the entrance to the bungalow.

The Crew Cut Man took the opportunity to size up the two people at the door.

One was a rather handsome teenage boy.

The other was a young girl with an immature face, probably just starting middle school—maybe even still in elementary school.

The two lounged against reclining chairs, relaxed and at ease.

The Crew Cut Man knew that Zhang Butcher sold pork and received piles of cash every day, which he usually kept in a large leather bag.

In 2014, mobile payments had not yet become popular. Cash was still the mainstream.

An idea struck him. Calmly, he pulled out a pack of Hongwan and offered one to the young man.

"Here, little brother, have one." The Crew Cut Man acted like they were old friends.

Xue Yuantong immediately looked at Jiang Ning, hoping he would refuse. She vaguely sensed that the Crew Cut Man was dangerous and no good.

Jiang Ning sat up and waved a hand. "I don't smoke."

The Crew Cut Man gave an awkward laugh and casually withdrew the cigarette.

Looking toward the neighboring house, he struck up a conversation. "Brother Zhang isn't home?"

"He went out," Jiang Ning said.

The Crew Cut Man nodded and asked again, "Did Aunt Zhang go out too?"

"Yes," Jiang Ning replied.

After asking those two questions, the Crew Cut Man felt much more at ease.

Looking helpless, he said, "Brother Zhang got some pork for me and told me to come pick it up, but look at this... Sigh, I need it urgently!"

Xue Yuantong looked at Jiang Ning.

She had noticed something off about this man.

Her mother had always repeatedly reminded her to be careful, all to ensure her safety.

Under normal circumstances, Xue Yuantong would have gone straight home