Chapter 271: I Don't Believe It!

Zheng Fuhua looked at Li Xuewu and Duan Youting and asked with a frown: "How long have you been interrogating them?"

Duan Youting looked at his watch and replied: "Over three hours."

"If you can't interrogate anything out of them, just release them. Comrade Wei Luyun said he would go to that young lady's house to apologize."

After Zheng Fuhua finished explaining, he said to the two: "That's it. Hurry up and reconnect the phone line, and get back to work."

"Probably can't release them."

After Li Xuewu finished this sentence, everyone was stunned.

Duan Youting wanted to pull Zheng Fuhua aside to talk, but was dodged by Zheng Fuhua.

"Say it right here. What's there to hide? If there's really a problem, can Comrade Wei Luyun make things difficult for you?"

This sentence was truly beautiful.

Zheng Fuhua came here entrusted by someone, and suppressing his subordinates was a helpless move. If there was really a handle to be grabbed, who would want to do this kind of thing?

No wonder Zheng Fuhua asked how long they had been interrogating as soon as he arrived; he was asking if they were sure they could keep the people.

"This..."

Duan Youting hesitated, looked at Li Xuewu, and seeing Li Xuewu nod, he told the story of Zheng Minhua's case.

As soon as this name appeared, Madam Wei's face changed instantly.

Zheng Fuhua, after hearing Duan Youting's account, also frowned and asked Duan Youting: "Have you verified it?"

"Almost. Station Chief Shen is currently interrogating Weimin."

Zheng Fuhua didn't ask again, but turned his gaze toward Wei Luyun.

Li Xuewu looked at Wei Luyun's expressionless face and was still somewhat impressed; at least this composure was impressive.

"I really don't know about this situation. Is there some misunderstanding? Why don't you let us see Weimin and Seeing Wei Guo first?"

"That's not very convenient. We are still in the middle of the investigation, and suspects cannot see their family members."

Seeing Li Xuewu speak, Wei Luyun looked at Zheng Fuhua, then looked at Li Xuewu and asked: "I haven't asked yet, who are you?"

Zheng Fuhua introduced Li Xuewu to Wei Luyun: "This is Li Xuewu, the deputy station chief of our Dongcheng Branch Station, and also the security section chief of the Red Star Steel Mill."

"Truly young and promising. I also know your Deputy Factory Li Suo."

Li Xuewu ignored Wei Luyun's attempt to get close and said to Zheng Fuhua: "Leader, this case is already very clear. What can be determined is that Weimin led this crime, and he has confessed to his crimes. However, his identity as security for the Textile Factory needs you to communicate with the Textile Factory."

Zheng Fuhua saw Li Xuewu being direct and getting straight to the follow-up of the case, so he looked at Duan Youting, then nodded: "Follow the procedure and report it to the bureau."

"Zheng Fuhua, should we take another look? After all, we are here to solve the problem. We have to let us see the children and ask about the process of the matter. Even if our children made a mistake, you have to give us a chance to make amends."

Wei Luyun stood to one side and negotiated with Zheng Fuhua, then said to Li Xuewu: "I know what you're worried about. Don't worry, once these two children get out, I'll send them directly to the Northwest. They won't come back until they correct their mistakes."

Zheng Fuhua didn't reply to Wei Luyun, but looked at Li Xuewu.

Wei Luyun saw Zheng Fuhua looking at Li Xuewu and knew that this matter was led by Li Xuewu, so he still had to look at Li Xuewu's opinion.

Wei Luyun walked two steps toward Li Xuewu and said: "I know what you're worried about. Don't worry, once these two children get out, I'll send them directly to the Northwest. They won't come back until they correct their mistakes."

Li Xuewu saw everyone looking at him, laughed "hehe" twice, then took out a cigarette and offered one to Zheng Fuhua first.

Zheng Fuhua looked at Li Xuewu with narrowed eyes and then accepted it.

Li Xuewu also offered one to Wei Luyun.

Wei Luyun saw that Li Xuewu seemed to have the intention of easing the relationship, so he relaxed his expression slightly and accepted the cigarette Li Xuewu offered.

Throwing one to Duan Youting, Li Xuewu lit his own, and then said: "I admire Comrade Wei's character, because I can see your quality from Seeing Wei Guo."

Wei Luyun didn't know what Li Xuewu meant, but still said: "Your temperament is good, and you're also from the same profession. We're all the same, so please understand a father's heart."

"Mm-hmm-hmm."

Li Xuewu nodded in agreement, then said: "I know you have some misunderstandings about me, and I need to make it clear to you here."

This sentence tightened the atmosphere that had just relaxed while lighting the cigarettes.

"I only know Gu Ning, and I've only met Gu Can twice. I've already explained this to your two sons, so don't misunderstand the Gu family, and don't misunderstand me."

Wei Luyun felt that Li Xuewu was speaking with hidden meaning, but didn't interrupt, listening to Li Xuewu's follow-up with a frown.

"Secondly, I don't know Seeing Wei Guo or Weimin, and I have no conflict with them. This matter isn't as simple as you say, and it's not a misunderstanding. We also took a statement from Gu Ning immediately."

"And then there's Zheng Minhua's matter."

Li Xuewu paused here, took a puff of his cigarette, and then said to Zheng Fuhua: "She was pushed down from the fourth floor while pregnant. She was paralyzed in her lower limbs after coming off the operating table."

Li Xuewu's explanation made Zheng Fuhua's face look very ugly. He no longer looked at Wei Luyun's expression, but looked sharply at Li Xuewu.

Li Xuewu looked at Wei Luyun and said: "It's been three years. Haven't you had time to repent and make amends? Why come to us for time now?"

"Hahahaha."

Li Xuewu ignored Wei Luyun's ugly face and Madam Wei's resentful look, and mocked: "That's not right either. You did make amends."

"Zheng Minhua's younger brother was arranged by you to work at the Textile Third Factory, and Zheng Minhua's father got a sum of money, buying a car and remarrying. You made amends very thoroughly, but you just happened to forget about Zheng Minhua, who was bedridden."

"You're lying, it was that..."

Madam Wei could no longer endure Li Xuewu's mockery.

This little liar had been lying to her from the beginning, saying he was a maintenance worker. She didn't expect him to be the bastard who had beaten her son. Now he was mocking her again. As the wife of a department head, she had never suffered such anger.

Wei Luyun nudged his wife, blocking her second half of the sentence, then threw the cigarette in his hand onto the ground and stepped on it, no longer looking at Li Xuewu, but looking at Zheng Fuhua.

"I don't agree with this Station Chief Li's statement. I think he is suspected of retaliating. It's better to call the parties involved and investigate the matter clearly."

Actually, if he had said this earlier, Li Xuewu wouldn't have explained so much to these two; it was a waste of breath.

"Exactly. What right do you have to interrogate Weimin?"

Seeing Zheng Fuhua not speaking, Wei Luyun said unhappily: "If you're not convenient, I'll talk to Station Chief Liu. There are so many problems with this case, it still needs to be interrogated carefully. I believe Weimin wouldn't make this mistake."

Zheng Fuhua looked at Wei Luyun and asked: "Two station chiefs and one deputy station chief, could we still wrong your child?"

Hearing this, Zheng Fuhua was also very dissatisfied.

He hadn't wanted to come in the first place. The phone couldn't get through, and this Wei guy was sitting in his office refusing to leave, so he had to come here.

He thought it was a simple dispute case, and they could just mediate, but he didn't expect it to involve such an annoying case.

"That's not necessarily true. Who knows if you're taking care of each other and joining forces to suppress us?"

Zheng Fuhua was also laughed at by Madam Wei's words. He looked at Wei Luyun and asked: "What do you think this place is? This is a place that talks about evidence and facts. If something didn't happen, can we conjure it up for you?"

Wei Luyun didn't stop his wife, but frowned and said: "My meaning is very clear. The street incident was a misunderstanding. We won't pursue the matter of this Deputy Station Chief Li hitting someone. As for this Zheng Minhua you mentioned, we still need to check if she's someone with ulterior motives. I believe my family hasn't had contact with her, and Weimin wouldn't do such a thing."

"Your belief doesn't count. We have to speak with facts."

"The fact is that you exaggerated the basis of the case for certain purposes, distorted the original facts, and deliberately..."

Wei Luyun's patience was clearly worn out by Li Xuewu and the others. He had condescended to talk for so long, but these people didn't give him any face, so he directly exploded at Li Xuewu's words.

"F*ck your grandfather! I let you interrogate, and you two bastards went to eat..."

Just as Wei Luyun was counting the crimes Li Xuewu had committed, Shen Fang pushed open the door and shouted at Li Xuewu and the other, then saw the people standing in the courtyard.

"Station Chief Zheng!"

Shen Fang saw Zheng Fuhua looking at him with a gloomy face, immediately saluted, and greeted him loudly.

"What kind of appearance is this? And you're a station chief."

Zheng Fuhua scolded in a low voice, then looked at Wei Luyun, whose face was flushed red, and said: "I'm sorry. The quality of the people below still needs to be improved. Please continue."

How could he continue? The mood was all ruined.

Wei Luyun scanned the people in the courtyard, then said to Zheng Fuhua: "You've trained a good soldier."

After mocking Zheng Fuhua, he said arrogantly: "If your soldiers are all like this, don't blame me for not believing your interrogation results."

"Are there results?"

Zheng Fuhua also thought of what Shen Fang had just said, and immediately asked Shen Fang.

Shen Fang was straightforward, nodded and reported: "He has already confessed. The interrogation work for the case is finished, and we are just waiting to report to you."

"What? I don't believe it!"

Wei Luyun's attitude changed immediately. His calm and atmospheric demeanor disappeared, leaving only full suspicion and resentment.

"I want to see those two. I want to see if you've used torture to extract a confession. If you have, I'm going to report you!"

"Comrade Wei Luyun, please mind your language!" Zheng Fuhua said with dissatisfaction.

In this courtyard, only Zheng Fuhua represented the public security identity. If he didn't speak, who would?

Although he was wary of this Comrade Wei Luyun's identity, he was very dissatisfied with him saying this.

But who would have thought that Wei Luyun now had no scruples and didn't give Zheng Fuhua any face at all.

Wei Luyun pointed at Li Xuewu and the others, then said: "You guys just wait. I will definitely seek justice, especially you."

Li Xuewu was standing beside Duan Youting, winking at Shen Fang.

Shen Fang even poked Li Xuewu, complaining that he wasn't being fair and was eating alone.

But unexpectedly, while the two were whispering, Wei Luyun pointed at Li Xuewu and cursed: "Look at you, you don't even have the image of an investigator. I now highly doubt your investigative ability and your original intention. Even if you interrogated something, your appearance makes me feel that my child was coerced."

"Wei Luyun!"

Zheng Fuhua's face looked extremely ugly, and he shouted Wei Luyun's name while glaring at him.

This meant Zheng Fuhua was very dissatisfied with what he had said.

But before Zheng Fuhua could speak again, Madam Wei said from the side: "Sneaky and ghostly, you don't look like a good person at all."

These words were said by Madam Wei to Li Xuewu, because among these people, only Li Xuewu had beaten her son.

"To curry favor with Gu Haitao, you'd use any means. Did Gu Haitao instruct you to harm my son? Is his daughter that precious? Is it worth you using your public security identity to be his lackey?"

"Auntie!"

Li Xuewu didn't feel sad when Wei Luyun cursed him, because Zheng Fuhua was here.

Although he was the one being cursed, Wei Luyun was pointing at Zheng Fuhua.

Hearing Madam Wei's insults, Li Xuewu didn't react either. Let her curse; at worst, he would apply to watch the execution later.

But looking at Madam Wei, Li Xuewu widened his eyes and shouted "Auntie" in surprise.

"Don't try to get close to me. Just wait to be skinned. Calling me Auntie, even calling me Grandma won't work."

Madam Wei, seeing Li Xuewu shouting "Auntie" at her, retorted unceremoniously.

But who would have thought that Li Xuewu didn't pay any attention to Madam Wei, but walked toward the door in embarrassment to welcome someone.

"Auntie Ding, why are you here?"

Li Xuewu had just been busy whispering with Shen Fang, and when Wei Luyun was cursing, Li Xuewu had also been winking at Shen Fang and Duan Youting with an indifferent expression.

What is called "the enemy's anger is the best praise for one's own work"?

He only saw Auntie Ding standing behind the car at the door now, and she had been standing there for a while.

"If I didn't come, your Uncle Gu would have become an instigator."

Ding Bianji glared at Li Xuewu, didn't look at the people in the courtyard, and asked: "How is Gu Ning's case?"

Li Xuewu didn't rush to answer Ding Bianji's question, but looked outside the door and asked: "Auntie, how did you get here?"

Seeing Li Xuewu trying to change the subject, Ding Bianji knew Li Xuewu's meaning: he didn't want her to run into the Wei family couple.

But Ding Bianji wasn't someone to be trifled with. Someone who wasn't to be trifled with couldn't have crossed enemy lines to Yan'an to fight for the world back then.

"Your Uncle Gu doesn't let our family car enter any government compound, so I could only tell the driver to stop at the entrance of the alley and walk in myself."

This was ostensibly a reply to Li Xuewu's question, but in reality, it was a dark satire on the Wei family couple.

Li Xuewu also understood, turned back to look at the embarrassed and distressed Wei family couple, and then looked at Zheng Fuhua, who was watching this side.

"Auntie, the case is finished, and it has been officially reported, preparing to go through the procedures. Shall I take you inside to sit for a while?"

This was Li Xuewu's polite remark, wanting to hurry up and coax Ding Bianji away.

Ding Bianji looked at Li Xuewu and said: "No, it's good that there's a result. You're busy, I won't disturb you. I'll just say two words and leave."

Li Xuewu had no choice but to say: "Then let me introduce you."

As he spoke, Li Xuewu took Ding Bianji into the courtyard and introduced her to Zheng Fuhua: "This is the mother of Gu Ning, the victim of the first case."

Then he introduced Zheng Fuhua to Ding Bianji: "This is Leader Zheng from our Dongcheng Branch."

"Hello, Leader Zheng."

Ding Bianji took the initiative to shake hands with Zheng Fuhua and said: "Thank you for enforcing the law impartially."

Zheng Fuhua saw that this thin, tall middle-aged woman had an extraordinary bearing and was wearing a fur-collared coat; she was clearly the family member of a high-level person, so he also replied politely: "It's all what we should do."

Ding Bianji finished being polite with Zheng Fuhua, then turned to look at the Wei family couple standing to one side in embarrassment.

Her attitude didn't change much, still maintaining a calm expression.

"Old Wei, we haven't seen each other for several years. I didn't expect to meet a comrade-in-arms under these circumstances."

Wei Luyun grinned awkwardly with a distressed face: "Just now..."

Ding Bianji didn't let Wei Luyun continue, interrupting: "I won't talk about public affairs; the law handles that. If you want to investigate Li Xuewu, go report him. What I want to talk about is the matter between Weimin and Gu Ning."

Ding Bianji raised her head slightly and said to Wei Luyun: "Weimin is a leader, and Gu Ning is also a leader. If it weren't for Li Xuewu being there, this matter should be handled by the Textile Factory or the hospital. I'll tell Old Gu to report to the Textile Factory later and explain the relationship here."

"Big Sister, she didn't mean that, she..."

Wei Luyun also wanted to explain for his wife.

But Ding Bianji didn't listen at all, and instead said to Madam Wei: "You're right, Li Xuewu was instructed by Old Gu."

As soon as this sentence was said, not only were the Wei family couple surprised, but Shen Fang and the others who were watching the fun were also surprised. They didn't expect Li Xuewu to have this kind of relationship?

Li Xuewu also widened his eyes, thought about it, and it seemed like that hadn't happened, right?

But Ding Bianji seemed to want to drop everyone's jaws, continuing: "Old Gu instructed him to protect Gu Ning well and take good care of Gu Ning, because Li Xuewu is the son-in-law Old Gu has decided on."

"What?"

Wei Luyun and his wife exclaimed in surprise, not expecting Li Xuewu to really be the Gu family's...

Li Xuewu was also surprised: "Mom!..."

Li Xuewu had wanted to remind Auntie Ding. Now that the case was over, he wasn't afraid of the Wei family couple.

But seeing the look in Auntie Ding's eyes and thinking about the days in the hospital, in front of so many people, if he denied Auntie Ding's words...

This face had to be given no matter what.

Shen Fang and the others, who were stunned, were already shocked by this turn of events.

Seeing Li Xuewu speak, everyone turned their gaze toward Li Xuewu.

Li Xuewu asked with some embarrassment but hesitation: "Mom, can we tell them about this kind of relationship?"

Ding Bianji was gratified to be called "Mom" by Li Xuewu, but she reprimanded him on the surface: "Listen to me finish."

Li Xuewu was obedient and stood behind Ding Bianji.

"I'm saying this today to give Li Xuewu an explanation. Gu Ning has nothing to do with your Weimin. If you dare to reach out your claws, not chopping off your son's hand would be light."

After saying this, Wei Luyun no longer had his arrogant momentum, and Madam Wei also avoided Ding Bianji's gaze, not daring to look this way.

"Big Sister, you're also in a fit of anger. Tonight I'll visit Gu Can and we'll talk again."

As he spoke, Wei Luyun pulled his wife and was about to get in the car and leave.

Ding Bianji said coldly: "Go directly to the Textile Factory tonight. I'll tell Old Gu to wait for you there."

Wei Luyun didn't dare to reply, got in the car, and told the driver to leave quickly.

The driver, who had been watching the fun, saw that the Wei Luyun he served had been defeated, hurriedly started the engine, completed the reversal with one foot on the gas, and drove out of the gate with a "buzz."

Seeing the Wei family couple leave, Ding Bianji withdrew her gaze, smiled at Zheng Fuhua and the others who were looking over in surprise, and said: "Public and private matters happened together. I've made you laugh."

"No, no."

Zheng Fuhua smiled and said: "You can also be considered a family member of our public security police. We're all our own people, nothing to laugh at."

Ding Bianji smiled and looked at Li Xuewu, who was standing to one side, and said to the others: "Thank you, Leader Zheng and Li Xuewu's comrades, for your support and help. My daughter is unwell, so I'll ask her to come here later to thank everyone."

Zheng Fuhua looked at Li Xuewu's "mother-in-law," who no longer had the aura of a "tigress." This grace wasn't something an ordinary family could cultivate, so he knew his guess was correct.

Could someone who could make Wei Luyun call her "Big Sister" and scare away that pair of troublesome people be a simple person?

It seemed he had a capable person under his command.

"Li Xuewu is right here. Let him thank us for you, hahaha."

Ding Bianji nodded and said: "Then let him treat you."

As she spoke, she pulled Li Xuewu's clothes and said to the others: "You're busy, I won't disturb you all. I have a few words for Li Xuewu."

"Please."

Zheng Fuhua and the others said politely, then walked toward the hall under Duan Youting's lead.

Li Xuewu was pulled by Ding Bianji toward the door.

Ding Bianji said as she walked: "Be smooth when handling things, don't be so direct."

"Yes."

Li Xuewu replied, but Ding Bianji was dissatisfied.

"It concerns Gu Ning, so you could have just made a phone call home or told your Uncle Gu. Why go through all this trouble?"

Li Xuewu smiled and said: "I can handle him here, and besides, Uncle Gu is so busy."

"No matter how busy he is, he has time to manage his children's affairs."

Ding Bianji replied, then explained: "Xiao Ning was frightened when she was young and is easily stimulated, so your Uncle Gu assigned her guards."

"But after she started working, she withdrew them. I didn't expect that kid to come looking for her again."

Li Xuewu knew some of the things here, but it wasn't good to say anything, so he just listened to Ding Bianji.

"You did the right thing this time. If anyone dares to reach out their claws to Xiao Ning again, beat them to death."

"Hahahaha."

Li Xuewu laughed twice, then said: "Auntie, I'm a law enforcer; I must abide by the law."

Ding Bianji looked at Li Xuewu, her gaze full of appreciation and affirmation, but she reprimanded him on the surface: "Just like your Uncle Gu, old-fashioned and stubborn, not flexible at all. What's wrong with mentioning your Uncle Gu's name? Could he say anything about you?"

Although she said that, Ding Bianji was still very satisfied with Li Xuewu's attitude toward doing things, especially his attitude toward protecting Gu Ning.

One could tell from Gu Ning's narration how much Li Xuewu cared about her.

Actually, Li Xuewu was so agitated at the time partly due to a conditioned reflex—the so-called quick to act and short-tempered.

Another main reason was that Li Xuewu had long wanted to clean up these bastards, and it just so happened that those who had been arrogant with him before had fallen into his hands. How could he let them go?

But Li Xuewu didn't expect, nor did he realize, that his quickness to act became bravery in Gu Ning's eyes—bravery for her sake.

Maybe this is the emotional side of women. After all, women are more likely to believe in love at first sight and love that is repaid with one's life than men.

As for men... well, never mind.

Li Xuewu sent Ding Bianji to the car at the entrance of the alley and said with a smile: "You don't need to come here again. Weimin will be transferred to the Textile Factory later, and we will follow up."

Ding Bianji looked at Li Xuewu with a smile. The toughness and sharpness of a soldier that she had found unpleasant before now turned into advantages that could protect her daughter.

"Don't get involved in this matter anymore. I'll ask your Uncle Gu to pay attention. That Wei family couple is used to playing dirty, so be careful. Don't let your gun leave your side. If something happens, just shoot. If you kill a few, don't be afraid; your Uncle Gu and I are here."

Li Xuewu listened to Ding Bianji's "ruthlessness," and nodded helplessly with a bitter smile: "I know, Auntie."

Ding Bianji was gratified to have Li Xuewu open the car door, and as she got in, she said: "Don't take it lightly."

After she finished speaking and saw Li Xuewu close the car door, she rolled down the window before the car started and said to Li Xuewu with a smile: "It still sounds better to call me Mom."

Li Xuewu smiled and said: "Mom, thank you for your concern."

"Hey, go get busy."

Ding Bianji replied gratifiedly, then waved at Li Xuewu after the car started and left.

Watching the car drive away, Li Xuewu looked at his watch. It was already past three o'clock, so he thought he should hurry back to communicate with the others so he could go back to work at the Steel Mill.

As soon as he entered Duan Youting's office, he was teased by Shen Fang: "Sent your mother-in-law off? Hahahaha."

"Hahahaha."

Even Zheng Fuhua started laughing at Li Xuewu.

Li Xuewu glared at Shen Fang and said: "Still in the mood to laugh? It was you who delayed things, interrogating for so long. If it weren't for Station Chief Zheng, Old Duan and I wouldn't have been able to hold these two."

Li Xuewu wasn't blaming Shen Fang; he was buttering him up.

The effect was obvious.

Zheng Fuhua looked at the three and smiled: "You've worked hard, comrades. The case was handled very beautifully."

During the time Li Xuewu was away, Shen Fang and Duan Youting had already reported the ins and outs of the case to Zheng Fuhua.

Zheng Fuhua also understood Li Xuewu's meaning and didn't pursue the matter of the "wild cat" biting the phone line.

"Serve the people."

Li Xuewu saluted and gave Zheng Fuhua his habitual reply.

But Shen Fang and Duan Youting were just foolishly listening to Zheng Fuhua continue to praise them, not expecting that the "old six" beside them had set them up again.

Zheng Fuhua looked at Li Xuewu with satisfaction and waved for Li Xuewu to sit down.

"You have fully practiced this sentence."

As soon as Li Xuewu sat down, he was stepped on by Shen Fang, a warning for Li Xuewu not to keep "performing" and answering Zheng Fuhua's words.

Just let Zheng Fuhua talk awkwardly by himself.

Zheng Fuhua was satisfied not only with Li Xuewu's attitude.

Just now, when Wei Luyun said he wanted to investigate how Li Xuewu entered the public security team and belittled Li Xuewu, Zheng Fuhua was very dissatisfied.

Because Li Xuewu was the one he had advocated for recruiting. Now, Li Xuewu had used his excellent performance to powerfully refute Wei Luyun's incorrect remarks.

This was much more satisfying than Zheng Fuhua arguing with Wei Luyun himself.

Who wouldn't want someone under their command who is smart, highly educated, capable of handling cases, and, crucially, can synchronize their thinking with their own?

Especially after Shen Fang and Duan Youting reported Li Xuewu's ability to break the psychological defenses of three criminals in succession, make them bite each other, and solidify the case.

Zheng Fuhua felt it wasn't a wasted trip today. This trip to the Textile Factory was going to be a face-saver. Being able to solidify the case so well before the handover would let those people at the Textile Factory see if there were capable people at the branch station.

Li Xuewu said modestly: "A single tree doesn't make a forest. This is all thanks to the strong support of Station Chief Duan and Station Chief Shen. Without their help, the case wouldn't have been handled so easily."

Shen Fang and Duan Youting looked at Li Xuewu with a smile, feeling that although this person liked to show off sometimes, his character of not eating alone was worth befriending.

"Hahahaha, all good examples."

Zheng Fuhua praised, then asked with a smile: "I heard you not only want to swat flies but also want to beat tigers. Now that the tiger has been beaten, when will the flies be swatted?"

Li Xuewu looked at Duan Youting and Shen Fang, got their confident looks, and replied formally: "Please rest assured, Leader, I guarantee to complete the mission."

"Good!"

Zheng Fuhua didn't blame Li Xuewu for his secretive attitude, but praised: "I like your character for handling cases. Last time I let them treat you to a celebration drink, this time I say it: once the flies are swatted, I'll treat you to dinner."

"Yes."

The three of them stood at attention and saluted.

This time, Shen Fang and

This time, Shen Fang and Duan Youting, having received a signal from Li Xuewu, very keenly captured his meaning.

Thus, the three men's uniform actions left a very good impression on Zheng Fuhua.

Why else would they say that proximity to vermilion makes one red, and proximity to ink makes one black? Look, after working on cases with Li Xuewu for a few days, they could already pick up on his cues.

The four of them chatted easily about the case in the office, waiting for the textile mill to come and pick up the person.

After nearly an hour, the textile mill's jeep entered the courtyard.

The people who came were very direct; they completed the handover procedures with Duan Youting quickly, signing where signatures were needed.

Duan Youting, imitating Li Xuewu, cunningly kept a copy of the interrogation record, which caused the textile mill people to cast a few glances at him.

Duan Youting, having been "near the ink," had no intuition of blushing and waved his hand to signal Xiao Mi and Old Song to bring the person out.

The details inside were hard to explain, but in short, Xiao Mi and Old Song escorted the dejected Weimin out of the investigation area and handed him over to the textile mill cadres wearing special uniforms.

While being escorted into the car, Weimin still looked around the office area, but he was pushed into the jeep before he could see Li Xuewu's figure.

Shen Fang greeted Zheng Fuhua, got on the sidecar motorcycle waiting in the courtyard, and took another textile mill vehicle to pick up Zheng Minhua.

After this group left, Zheng Fuhua shook hands with Li Xuewu and Duan Youting and also got into the jeep to return to the branch bureau.

After seeing Zheng Fuhua off, Li Xuewu and Duan Youting looked at each other, both let out a sigh of relief, and then laughed out loud.

"Working on a case with you is truly a thrilling experience."

"Now you don't think working on a case with me is too high-risk?"

Seeing Li Xuewu teasing him, Duan Youting smiled and said, "I'm not afraid of risk, as long as there are benefits."

Li Xuewu pulled open the door of the jeep that Yan Jiecheng had driven over, looked at Duan Youting's grinning face, and said, "The old saying goes: learning to be good is hard, but learning to be bad is a slide. You haven't learned anything from me, but you've certainly learned shamelessness from Shen Fang."

"Get lost, hahaha."

Li Xuewu grabbed the handle on the door frame and jumped into the car, turning back to instruct Duan Youting, "Release that Zuo Jie. Follow the witness procedure. By the way, help me tell him that the person I promised to arrange for him to meet is studying in Shijiazhuang, and I'll arrange it when they are on holiday."

Duan Youting nodded and then asked, "What about that Seeing Wei Guo?"

"Handle it according to the law: illegal possession of a weapon, threatening investigation personnel, and disturbing public order."

After speaking, Li Xuewu slammed the car door shut, waved at Duan Youting, and signaled Yan Jiecheng to drive.

Yan Jiecheng had been waiting in the duty room for Li Xuewu, watching him handle the case the whole time.

Especially when Li Xuewu was directing the two station chiefs, he felt that he, as the driver, shared in the honor.

Seeing that Li Xuewu was about to leave, he had warmed up the car early, and after Li Xuewu saw off the superior leaders, he drove the car to Li Xuewu's side.

Yan Jiecheng, feeling he had accomplished a great task, received Li Xuewu's order and stepped on the gas, driving out of the police station gate.

Duan Youting saw Li Xuewu off, turned around, and looked at Old Song and Xiao Mi standing behind him.

"Are you very free? Didn't you hear what Li Suo said? Why aren't you working and standing here instead?"

Old Song and Xiao Mi knew they had caused trouble for Director Duan this time, and seeing his dissatisfaction, they could only salute and walk into the hall.

After scolding these two unlucky fellows, Duan Youting couldn't help but smile again.

He wasn't actually angry with them; Old Song actually had plenty of experience in handling cases, he just hadn't met good teammates.

This Xiao Mi had grown up in this police station; when his father retired, he took over.

This kid was good at everything—agile, quick, and hardworking—he just had a streak of stubbornness.

Usually it was fine, but sometimes he used that stubbornness in the wrong place, making him look silly.

Although he had praised them in front of Zheng Fuhua in the office, he couldn't let them know, otherwise who knows what other trouble they might cause.

Not every police officer was as awesome as Li Xuewu, and not every police officer had such an awesome mother-in-law.

Duan Youting followed Li Xuewu's instructions and processed Zuo Jie as a witness.

When he entered the interrogation room where Zuo Jie was, he almost lost his composure.

As soon as Zuo Jie saw someone enter, he sat up from the table with a start.

It turned out this kid had been sleeping on the interrogation table, and now he was looking at Duan Youting with sleepy eyes, stunned.

"You've got a lot of nerve, being able to sleep here. Do you want me to find you a pillow?"

Zuo Jie explained awkwardly, "Your Li Suo told me that once I finished my statement, it would be fine, so I..."

Duan Youting glared at Zuo Jie and then lectured him, "This time it's because Li Suo is kind-hearted and let you off the hook. Next time you go out on the street carrying weapons, see if it's Li Suo who catches you."

"No, no, I wouldn't dare again," Zuo Jie said, waving his hands.

Duan Youting couldn't be bothered to deal with this kid and took the notebook, telling Zuo Jie to sign.

Zuo Jie signed and looked up, asking, "Can I go out now? What about the Wei brothers?"

Duan Youting said impatiently, "You can go, but the Wei brothers can't."

"Great, great!"

Zuo Jie jumped three feet high and shouted excitedly.

"What's wrong with you?"

Duan Youting scolded him and then said, "Li Suo said that the person you were supposed to meet can't come tonight; they are studying in Shijiazhuang. We'll arrange it when they are on holiday."

"Ah?"

Zuo Jie was surprised and then asked, "You're not lying to me, are you? How did Li Suo know Gu Yan wasn't in Beijing? Did Gu Ning come?"

Duan Youting frowned and asked, "Who is Gu Yan?"

"He's Gu Ning's younger brother. Your Li Suo promised me he'd arrange for me to have dinner with him tonight."

"Oh, oh, oh, so you were trying to meet his brother-in-law."

Duan Youting finally understood who Li Xuewu meant, and explained, "It wasn't Gu Ning who said it, it was Gu Ning's mother—ah, that is, Li Suo's mother-in-law who came. Maybe his mother-in-law said it."

"Who?"

Zuo Jie was surprised and then confirmed, "Gu Yan is his brother-in-law? Gu Ning's mother is his mother-in-law? Then Gu Ning is his...?"

"What's wrong with you? Why are you always so jumpy!"

"No!"

Zuo Jie looked like he had been cheated out of millions and said with a sudden realization, "No wonder he stood up for Gu Ning. No wonder he took Gu Ning out to play. No wonder he was so sure he could arrange for me to meet Gu Yan."

"It turns out it was all a lie to me!"

"I'm so stupid, really! I only knew that bad people outside the courtyard had no way to eat on the street and would lie; I didn't know you police officers outside the courtyard would also lie."

"What are you saying? Didn't you sleep enough here? Do you want me to put handcuffs on you so you can sleep another night?"

Duan Youting ignored Zuo "Xianglin Sao" Jie's muttering and frowned, urging him to leave.

"If you want to get out, hurry up. Get out quickly, or I'm locking the door."

"Going, going, going."

Zuo Jie darted into the corridor, and as he walked, he turned back to ask Duan Youting, "Did Li Suo say to wait until Gu Yan is on holiday to arrange it?"

Duan Youting frowned and scolded, "Why are you so dawdling? Can't you understand what I'm saying?"

Zuo Jie said with a mournful face, "I understood, but how am I supposed to arrange to meet your Li Suo when the time comes!"

Duan Youting looked at this silly kid and couldn't help but laugh, "When the holiday comes, just go find his brother-in-law directly, won't that work?"

Li Xuewu returned to the steel mill after 4:30. Having been busy all day with Weimin's case, he returned to his office to quickly handle the work that had piled up.

Halfway through, Han Yating walked in, still looking worried.

"Li Kezhang."

Li Xuewu looked up and asked, "Is something the matter?"

Han Yating sat in front of Li Xuewu's desk and said softly, "You were gone all day, so you don't know, but those whistleblowing letters have started to ferment. Especially after Secretary Yang from the Discipline Inspection Commission came, the whole organization has been spreading rumors about this matter."