Read Chapter 27: — RETURN TO ZHENJIANG

A year after the river-god case, Lin sent Tang south with a sealed packet.

Tang suspected another investigation.

Instead, the packet contained revised security protocols for the canal administration and a personal letter from Lin to Su Shanhe.

“You could have used a courier,” Tang said before leaving.

“I am using one.”

“You are manipulating public resources for private matchmaking.”

“Careful. That sounds like an accusation.”

Tang left smiling.

Zhenjiang had changed less than he expected and more than he realised.

The river-god altar was gone. In its place stood a flood marker and a public notice explaining water levels and dangerous currents.

The abandoned shipyard had been converted into a grain inspection depot with independent bookkeeping.

And Su Xiaoxi stood on the quay in a red rescue jacket, shouting at two boys who had jumped into fast water for a dare.

Tang watched her for a while before speaking.

“Still terrifying people for public safety?”

She turned.

For one heartbeat neither moved.

Then she smiled.

“You took long enough.”