Chapter 33
The impact of Chu Mubei’s incident was particularly severe. Merely associating with a random man in an entertainment club would typically result in nothing more than gossip about an affluent individual from the upper class.
However, the Chu family was now under scrutiny, and Chu Tianhao was navigating through upper social circles, attracting media attention to his every move.
Furthermore, it was revealed that Chu Mubei’s intended target was his half-brother. This brought Chu Tianhao’s romantic affairs back into public discussion, with Chu Mubei’s reprehensible behavior drawing widespread disdain.
Imperial University promptly issued a school-wide announcement, specifically naming and condemning Chu Mubei’s actions, leading to his immediate expulsion. It seemed unlikely that any university on Central Planet would accept him after this scandal.
.
Chu Muxi arrived at school early in the morning, attracting a crowd eager to inquire about the details. Imperial University hadn’t expelled a student in decades, making Chu Mubei’s expulsion a significant event that shocked both teachers and students.
Initially, many found it hard to believe the accusations against Chu Mubei, given his perceived gentle and elegant demeanor. However, when Chu Tianhao checked the surveillance, it appeared that an employee had copied the video and leaked it online.
Despite the media frenzy and public scrutiny, clearing Chu Mubei’s name seemed impossible.
“Hey, the winner is back?” Phil greeted Chu Muxi in the classroom, enjoying a piece of strawberry cheesecake made by Chu Muxi as a thank-you gift.
Chu Muxi, unfazed, asked, “Aren’t you worried I’ll expose your actions to your family?”
Phil sighed, acknowledging Chu Muxi’s superior culinary skills compared to the palace chefs. Unaware of the palace chefs were making it nutritional instead of focusing on the taste.
“Your eldest brother is in trouble this time, right? He has a bad reputation on Central Planet, and now another brother has surfaced. Your father is quite charming.” Phil remarked, expressing surprise at the revelation.
Chu Muxi, seemingly indifferent, responded, “Maybe new siblings will appear in a couple of days.”
“Aren’t you surprised or angry?” Phil asked, observing Chu Muxi closely.
Chu Muxi, with a calm demeanor, questioned, “Is being angry useful?”
Phil agreed, “That’s true. It’s not easy for you either, and your other brother… I heard he cried during media interviews, lamenting his grievances.”
Chu Muxi remained silent, thinking about He Hui who was unaware of Chu Tianhao’s son outside. The reality was that Chu Tianhao had another son more than ten years ago.
That lover also employed tactics similar to He Hui’s, but He Hui’s position in the Chu family was now relatively stable, while that lover couldn’t find an opportunity to bring her son into the household.
After Chu Muxi asked Shen Wu to investigate the mother and son, he provided them with a sum of money, hinting that if Chu Mubei’s reputation was tarnished, Chu Tianhao would likely disown him. This would give the mother and son a chance to rise to power.
“It’s truly foolish. Chu Tianhao still needs a son, and even if Chu Mubei were to die, he wouldn’t choose another mistress from outside.” Phil commented sarcastically.
The events from yesterday had now circulated throughout Central Planet, with Phil’s assistance and dealings.
Chu Muxi had already informed Lu Junzhi about the situation, and considering Lu Junzhi’s prompt and unquestioning assistance, he fully trusted him.
Chu Muxi suddenly asked, “Phil, do you think if someone, who has known you for only a few days, trusts you wholeheartedly and helps you without any doubts, is that person—”
“Either they’re a fool, or they’ve fallen in love with you.” Phil interrupted, curious, “Who is that person? Wait, don’t tell me, was it me? I don’t swing that way.”
“It has nothing to do with you.” Chu Muxi retorted, “We’re a friend.”
“A friend? I just had a piece of your cake!” Phil protested.
Chu Muxi smiled, “What’s wrong with a piece of cake? Do you dislike it?”
“I didn’t say anything.” Phil waved his hands, smiling, “I’m still waiting for you to make me another cake. Muxi, your craftsmanship is really good.”
“Okay, I’ll come back to you next time if I need anything.” Chu Muxi teased.
Phil’s eyes widened, “You’re so clever, Chu Muxi! I know there’s no such thing as a free lunch!”
“You have good literary knowledge. You understand ancient sayings.” Chu Muxi praised insincerely.
Phil chuckled, thinking about the drama from yesterday, “Hey, how did your father teach your brother after he came back? In the royal family, there are many intrigues, but it’s rare to see someone like Chu Mubei resorting to such low-level tactics. Are you sure he’s your father’s son? Let alone your fox father, he’s far inferior to you.”
“I complimented you on your choice of words, and you started talking nonsense.” Chu Muxi said sarcastically. “Chu Tianhao has nothing to do with me. I only have my mother.”
“Brother, you misspoke.” Phil grinned, “That’s right. The Shen family is an esteemed lineage. I still remember the old man. He negotiated diplomatic trade with the Alliance on behalf of our empire, bringing us substantial benefits. He is a respected individual.”
Chu Muxi asked curiously, “Really?”
“Of course, but as his grandson, you know nothing about this? You’re not qualified.” Phil teased.
Chu Muxi lowered his eyes, a trace of regret flashing, and said in a low tone, “I was deceived before, but the misunderstanding between my grandpa and me has been resolved.”
He smiled at Phil, “Anyway, thank you for your help this time.”
Phil waved his hand, “Okay, okay, don’t say thank you back and forth; it’s awkward. Make me some more cakes later, and I’ll take them back to my… parents and give them a try.”
Phil was lucky to stop it, he almost said the word “Imperial Mother,” Phil’s situation in the palace wasn’t much better than Muxi’s.
This favor was considered a debt, if he needed it in the future, Chu Muxi would pay it back.