Chapter 358: The Underground Vault is Officially Opened

**

Hardy stared at the telegram in disbelief, a rush of emotions he couldn't quite describe washing over him. His heart raced in a way it never had before. The thrill of violence, the achievement of his first million, and even his rise as an American tycoon had never caused such a reaction. But the news of Yezhen's pregnancy was different—profoundly personal, and profoundly real.

He swiftly donned his jacket and instructed his assistant, "Call the airport. I'm heading to Hong Kong immediately." Then, he added, "Send a telegram to Victor in Hong Kong. I need him to pick me up at the airport."

Hardy rushed out to his waiting car, his driver and bodyguard already on standby. The flight to Hong Kong was swift, and within four hours, Hardy landed, arriving in the city at around 11 p.m. Victor and a small team awaited him on the tarmac.

"Boss, you seemed urgent. I have the security team ready," Victor said, his serious demeanor hinting at his concern.

"No need for the security team. Just take me to Yezhen," Hardy replied, a smile on his face.

They drove to Mid-Levels Manor, where the butler greeted him with surprise. "Master, you didn't give us any prior notice."

"I came in a hurry. Where's Yezhen?" Hardy asked.

"She's asleep," the butler answered.

Hardy dismissed the security team and entered the bedroom quietly. Yezhen was sleeping soundly, and Hardy approached the bed, careful not to wake her. A change in light stirred her, and she opened her eyes, seeing Hardy beside her.

"Am I dreaming?" she murmured groggily.

Hardy smiled, brushing his thumb across her face. "I came as soon as I saw the telegram. I had to see you."

Yezhen, now fully awake, stretched out her hand and embraced Hardy. "You really came. I thought I was dreaming. I only wanted to let you know, but you came so quickly."

Hardy gently touched her abdomen. "How did you find out?"

Yezhen explained her symptoms and the subsequent confirmation from both a Western and a Traditional Chinese Medicine doctor. "I wanted to tell you later, but I thought you'd be surprised if you came and found a child already here."

Hardy chuckled. "If I came back a year later and found a child, I'd be shocked. But that's not going to happen. I'd have heard about it from someone here."

As they settled into bed, Yezhen reminded Hardy of the doctor's advice to avoid physical intimacy during the early stages of pregnancy. Hardy, though understanding, simply wanted to be close to her and talk. They spent a long time chatting about the pregnancy and other details before falling asleep in each other's arms.

The next morning, Yezhen woke to find Hardy gone. After freshening up, she entered the living room to find a group of distinguished elderly figures there. Hardy stood with them, holding her hand. "I wanted you to meet some experts from the Chinese Medicine Research Institute. They'll check on you."

The Hong Kong Academy of Chinese Medicine had assembled over thirty renowned doctors. Old Mr. Zhao Weihan and Master Zheng Youqian both confirmed that Yezhen's pregnancy was healthy and that no immediate medicinal intervention was necessary. They advised maintaining a proper diet and avoiding certain foods.

Hardy ensured that all recommendations were noted, and the chefs would follow the guidelines.

After the experts left, Yezhen and Hardy were alone. Hardy expressed his concern and care, while Yezhen, touched by his attentiveness, assured him that she was fine. They talked about their plans and the antiques Hardy had recently acquired from Japan.

Curious about the treasures, Yezhen led Hardy to the vault. The museum building was nearing completion, and the vault housed both antiques and a substantial amount of gold. They began inspecting the antiques, unpacking them with excitement.

When Hardy opened a box filled with calligraphy and paintings, Yezhen identified a scroll by Zhao Ziang, a celebrated calligrapher. Then, Hardy uncovered a painting by Tang Bohu, depicting a classic romantic scene. Yezhen blushed, and Hardy commented on the vividness of the artwork.

Amused by Hardy's commentary, Yezhen shook her head, teasing him as they continued their exploration. The vault was filled with treasures, promising more surprises to come.