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Chapter 66 - Crimson Sky at Dusk

"Mom, when you have some free time, can you knit me a sweater too? It's been years since I last wore one of your handmade sweaters," Cheng Xing said with a playful smile.

Deng Ying chuckled. The last time Cheng Xing had worn a sweater she made was back in third or fourth grade. After the family's financial situation improved, they had stopped making clothes at home and switched to buying them. She could still recall the time when she painstakingly crafted everything for Cheng Xing, from sweaters to shoes, using her old sewing machine.

Back then, their family couldn't afford store-bought clothes. Every piece of clothing, every pair of shoes, and even his school bags were handmade.

Deng Ying shook her head. "I don't have the time for that anymore, and honestly, I've forgotten how to do it. You'd better ask Little Xi to make one for you. She's so much better and faster than I ever was."

"Never mind, then. Asking her to make one is too much. I'd rather watch and learn, then make it myself," Cheng Xing replied with a laugh.

He knew the idea of asking Jiang Luxi to knit him a sweater was absurd. Although their relationship had softened over the past month, he doubted she thought highly of him.

Jiang Luxi glanced away from the television and looked at him briefly, but she didn't say a word.

"Little Xi doesn't have time to make one for you," Deng Ying said, her voice full of affection. "Winter is coming, and knitting without gloves is hard on the hands. It's exhausting. I couldn't bear to let her go through that."

"By the way, where's Dad?" Cheng Xing asked, changing the subject.

"He's out handling some things. He should be back tonight," Deng Ying replied.

Cheng Xing nodded, though there was much he wanted to discuss with his parents. He decided now wasn't the right time. His father's current confidence was a double-edged sword. Unless he faced a setback, he wouldn't truly listen to advice. Cheng Xing resolved to wait for the right moment—perhaps a year or two—before stepping in to help them avoid disaster.

His parents' business revolved around a supermarket chain, Juwheel Supermarket. Years ago, they had ventured south to Shenzhen during the economic boom and earned their first fortune. His father, with his middle school education, was considered well-educated for the time, especially when 80% of Ancheng's population was illiterate two decades ago.

Returning to Ancheng in 2001, his father bought land and opened the first large supermarket in the city. Back then, Ancheng was still underdeveloped. Most residents had never seen a self-service store, let alone one that offered everything from fresh produce to clothing. The concept was revolutionary, and its affordability and convenience quickly made Juwheel a household name.

The business thrived, even as foreign retail giants like Carrefour and Walmart entered China's market in 2004. Juwheel's early market entry and support from the local government shielded it from competition. While Carrefour and Walmart struggled to adapt and eventually withdrew from Ancheng by 2008, Juwheel expanded steadily.

In less than a decade, Juwheel had established seven supermarkets across Ancheng's four counties and district. Flush with success, Cheng Xing's father began to believe the business was invincible. In 2010, he embarked on an ambitious expansion into neighboring cities, buying land and constructing new stores.

However, this was the beginning of Juwheel's downfall.

Unlike in Ancheng, where Juwheel enjoyed early entry and local government backing, the new markets were fiercely competitive. Established local players made it difficult for Juwheel to gain traction. The expansion drained the company's resources and turned into a financial disaster.

Two years later, Juwheel faced its most formidable rivals: emerging local chains with a "rural-to-urban" strategy. These competitors started by opening stores in smaller towns, gradually expanding into cities, and systematically chipping away at Juwheel's dominance.

By 2016, the company was in shambles. Bankruptcy followed, leaving Cheng Xing's father burdened with insurmountable debt. The failure of Juwheel wasn't just a financial loss—it deeply affected the family. His mother's health deteriorated, and the stress fractured their once-strong bond.

Cheng Xing clenched his fists at the memory. He had to grow stronger. When the time came, he'd have enough influence to steer Juwheel away from its doomed path. Though money wouldn't be an issue in his future, Juwheel represented his parents' life's work. He couldn't let it crumble again.

Later that afternoon, after tutoring, Deng Ying turned to Jiang Luxi. "Little Xi, don't leave yet. I've bought groceries. Stay for dinner."

"No, thank you," Jiang Luxi said, politely but firmly. She began packing her things. "Grandma's waiting for me at home. She'll worry if I'm late."

Deng Ying nodded. "I see. Well, next time, then."

She glanced outside. It was getting dark, and the idea of Jiang Luxi walking alone in the evening troubled her.

"Cheng Xing, walk Little Xi home," Deng Ying instructed.

"No need, Auntie," Jiang Luxi quickly waved her hand, declining the offer.

"It's no trouble. You've been helping all afternoon. It's only fair he walks you home," Deng Ying insisted.

"My mom's right, Ms. Jiang," Cheng Xing added with a smile. "Let's go. I'll walk you."

Jiang Luxi hesitated, then gave a small nod. She pushed her bike toward the door, glancing at Cheng Xing as if trying to gauge his intentions.

As she turned to close the door behind her, Cheng Xing quipped, "What? Are you so annoyed by me tagging along that you're trying to lock me in before I step out?"

Jiang Luxi paused but didn't reply.

Cheng Xing grinned. "Let's go. Don't worry, I won't follow you far."

They walked side by side, Cheng Xing keeping pace as she pushed her bike.

At the crossroads, Cheng Xing stopped. "This is far enough," he said, his tone light.

He looked at her, her face softly illuminated by the fiery hues of the setting sun. "It'll be dark soon. Watch the road and ride carefully."

He raised a hand in farewell and turned to leave.

Jiang Luxi stood there for a moment, watching his retreating figure. After a long pause, she whispered softly, "Okay."

Mounting her bike, she pedaled away, her silhouette fading into the twilight.

Behind her, Cheng Xing glanced back briefly before continuing his walk home. The sky was ablaze with crimson and gold, the path bathed in the serene glow of dusk.

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