I'm Done Playing the Lovesick Supporting Role - Chapter 227.2

Gu Jingyu was surprised to see her. Immersed in cultivating his students, he had almost forgotten about the supposed “protagonists” of this world. Jiang Xiaowei’s sudden appearance caught him off guard.

“Is there something you need?” Gu Jingyu asked.

Jiang Xiaowei bowed deeply. “Professor, I heard about what happened with Shangguan Qiuye and Beitang Mo. I think it may have been partially my fault. I came to apologize.”

Realizing her visit was about the incident, Gu Jingyu invited them inside. They chatted briefly, and Gu Jingyu noted that Jiang Xiaowei had grown significantly during her time abroad, living up to her status as a heroine blessed with great fortune.

After their visit, Gu Jingyu returned to his routine, while Jiang Xiaowei thrived at the academy. She and her boyfriend joined the student council, where she quickly rose to the position of vice president in her second year.

On their one-year anniversary, Jiang Xiaowei and her boyfriend prepared for a romantic celebration.

Meanwhile, Shangguan Qiuye and Beitang Mo were released from prison. Drivers from their respective families were already waiting to pick them up.

The two emerged as shadows of their former selves. Their time in prison had stripped them of confidence, leaving them brooding and intimidating.

Returning home, Beitang Mo was warmly greeted by his parents. Yet, sitting alone in his familiar yet alien bedroom, he felt a strange melancholy. Thoughts of why they had ended up in prison darkened his expression.

Shangguan Qiuye’s homecoming was less welcoming. His father immediately summoned him to the study. As soon as he entered, a thick book was hurled at his head, leaving a noticeable bruise.

“Shangguan Qiuye! Do you know how much trouble you’ve caused this family? Of everyone, you’ve proven to be the most reckless!”

Shangguan Qiuye stood silently at the door for a long time before calmly picking up the book and placing it back on the desk. Facing his father, he reflected on the year he had spent in prison. The experience had been a harsh lesson, forcing him to confront the consequences of his rashness.

His father’s voice was stern. “I’ve arranged for you to study abroad for four years. Stay there until this scandal blows over. Only after that can you return.”

Shangguan Qiuye accepted without resistance. He knew his father was right. In their current circle, his name was synonymous with disgrace. Time and distance were the only ways to erase his tarnished reputation.

As he left the study, his father received a phone call that prompted him to leave in a hurry, leaving Shangguan Qiuye puzzled.

🌟 Kliraz’s Tidbit

The value of reputation is deeply rooted in Chinese culture, shaping actions even in disgrace. In Japan, the practice of Kaizen—continuous improvement—teaches humility after failure. Reflect on past mistakes by journaling a simple “lesson learned” daily, saying, “What can I improve tomorrow?” helps growth. What’s one habit you’d refine to turn challenges into opportunities? Build resilience with small steps, like these characters finding strength through tough choices. Let’s grow a little each day (｡•̀ᴗ-)✧!