Chapter 81: Defying the Heavens of the Ye Family

As Ye Tianlin made his statement personally, the spacious private room was instantly plunged into a deathly silence.

Jiang Yingxia gasped, unable to maintain her composure—her entire being seized by shock. Su Rulan stood rigid, her gaze filled with disbelief. Even the old matriarch could not help but be moved.

The Capital Consortium possessed immense power—not only cooperating with the Ye family, but having deep influence even in overseas business circles. Many of the Ye family's international partners were also linked to the Capital Consortium, and in some respects, the Consortium held even greater sway.

Though the Ye family reigned supreme domestically, the rising Capital Consortium had already matched their overall strength, reaching a position of equality. Based on their current trajectory, it seemed likely that within three years, the Consortium would surpass the Ye family and stand above them.

Of course, this was merely the visible strength of the Capital Consortium, for no one knew whether they held hidden cards. As for the figure behind the Consortium, countless speculations had circulated among business magnates at home and abroad, but none had been verified. That person's true identity remained shrouded in mystery, making others increasingly wary as the Consortium expanded.

Yet now, Ye Tianlin claimed in person that he could control the entire Capital Consortium? It was inconceivable—a heavy blow, striking the old matriarch's heart like a hammer.

The old matriarch quickly recovered, shaking her head as she replied, "If you were that person behind the Capital Consortium, how could I not know? I watched you grow up, I know everything you've done—how could I possibly be unaware?"

"Precisely because you insist on controlling everything I do, I would never let you know these things," Ye Tianlin answered solemnly.

The old matriarch scoffed, "You’re just stubborn for the sake of your pride, boasting before me. With your abilities, if you could found the Capital Consortium, then I must be ten or a hundred times more capable than you!"

"Tianlin, what nonsense are you speaking? How can you utter such lies—aren’t you worried your grandmother isn’t angry enough already?" Jiang Yingxia interjected, her brows knit with concern, convinced Ye Tianlin was simply venting.

"Tianlin, stop," Su Rulan gently tugged at Ye Tianlin, thinking the same. In front of the old matriarch, it was understandable that Ye Tianlin, pressed to the limit, would say such things.

After all, being belittled by his own grandmother would stir anyone’s ire—just as she herself had felt when Grandfather Su had treated her with contempt.

So, Su Rulan stepped forward, bowed deeply before the old matriarch, and said, "Grandmother, I apologize for causing you so much trouble. I know my presence has been distressing, but I still hope you will give us a chance."

The old matriarch’s anger flared. She raised her hand and slapped Su Rulan across the face, scolding, "What right do you have to ask for a chance? If not for you, would that brat dare defy me?"

Ye Tianlin’s eyes instantly filled with bloodshot fury, barely able to contain himself.

Su Rulan hurriedly restrained Ye Tianlin, enduring the sting and redness on her cheek as she pleaded, "Grandmother, whether you hit or curse me today, I won’t hold it against you. I know you have your prejudices, but I believe time will prove everything."

The old matriarch retorted angrily, "Well, Su Rulan, I didn’t expect you to be so resilient—I’ve underestimated you. No wonder Ye Tianlin is so devoted to you. But don’t think I won’t act against you just because of this!"

With a thud—

Su Rulan knelt on the floor, her posture humble as she spoke, "These five years, Tianlin and I have endured many hardships. There were times I considered giving up—even suicide—but I survived. I know my status is not worthy of Tianlin’s background, but he has sacrificed so much to be with me, and I cannot withdraw now."

"I promise I won’t take a single cent from the Ye family. I’ll sign any agreement. I only hope you can see my resolve."

She had hoped this act of humility would change the old matriarch’s attitude, but instead, the old woman unleashed a torrent of scorn: "Don’t play the victim before me! The more you endure, the less I trust you—your scheming is too deep!"

Su Rulan was struck speechless, her face pale as paper. No matter how hard she tried, her sincere gesture was met only with humiliation.

Ye Tianlin pulled her up, dusted off her trousers, and said, "I never intended to harm the Ye family, but now that things have come to this, if I don’t make some noise, you’ll never recognize the truth. So… forgive me for being an unfilial grandson!"

"Careful your tongue doesn’t get burned by your wild words! With your abilities, you couldn’t shake the Ye family in a century. In my eyes, you’re nothing but a worthless fool!" the old matriarch snapped.

"Then please watch closely, and see how this so-called fool overturns the fate of the Ye family!" With Su Rulan beside him, Ye Tianlin turned and strode away without hesitation.