Stealing The Wind But Not The Moon [Completed]

21. Are You From Old Republic Of China Era?

Upon reaching the fifth floor, the two families bid each other farewell in a polite manner. The Xiang family proceeded to the east while the Chu family headed west, parting ways as they entered their respective halls.

The Meihe hall was a large, open space with high ceilings and hardwood floors. The walls were painted a deep magenta, which gave the room a warm and inviting feel.

The hall was often used for small family gatherings, such as reunions and birthday parties.

Several bags containing branded items and new electronic gadgets rested on the sofa, accompanied by a generous bunch of peach tulips adorning the coffee table.

Only Li Zangqiu and his son Li Heng had arrived from the Chu family. Li Zangqiu's current wife, much younger than him, hadn't joined them, and Li Heng was his only son from his previous marriage.

As the three members of the Chu family entered, Li Heng stood up to greet them, softly calling out "Xiao Hui" before extending his greetings to Mrs. Chu and Chu Zhichen.

Mrs. Chu exclaimed, "Oh, so many gifts!"

Li Heng led Chu Zhihui to open the presents, as Li Zangqiu approached Mrs. Chu, and both seemed to be filled with joy, creating a warm and familial atmosphere.

Chu Zhichen displayed a moderate smile. In past times, "free love" emerged and when young people fell in love, they enjoyed clandestine meetings, walked on green grass, and participated in poetry clubs. And only when the time came for discussions about marriage did they share their relationship with their parents.

However, this new generation appeared to be different, as Chu Shihui and Li Heng chose to spend their first anniversary not on a date, but with their families.

A waiter approached to inquire whether the food should be served, and everyone took their seats at the table. Chu Zhichen had just pulled out a chair when he said, "Xiaohui, you've opened so many gifts, go wash your hands."

Upon hearing this, Li Heng also wished to join, but before he could get up, Chu Zhichen took the initiative. The hall contained a separate small dressing room, and the siblings entered, standing before the mirror to wash their hands.

As the water flowed, Chu Zhichen lowered his head and spoke softly, "The other day, you asked if I would be working late tonight. If you wanted me to come, you could have just invited me directly. Does beating around the bush imply that you don't want me to be there?"

Chu Shihui detested socializing with older relatives the most. She hoped that Chu Zhichen would not come if he had other obligations, allowing the reunion dinner to be postponed or canceled. She replied, "Do you think I want to be here?"

Chu Zhichen queried, "Then why didn't you decline?"

Chu Shihui responded, "Because this dinner was Uncle Li's idea."

Chu Zhichen removed his hand from the water, which then ceased flowing. He took a tissue and placed it on the back of his hand, remarking, "So, you believe that Li Zangqiu's wishes are not to be disobeyed."

Chu Shihui was taken aback by his direct use of her name and whispered, "Yi Si rely on him, I understand."

The paper towel became damp, and Chu Zhichen crumpled it up, tossing it away. The girl in the ivory tower had learned to assess situations early on, for better or worse.

Returning to the dining table, Chu Zhichen took a sip of tea from his cup, savoring its warmth, yet he remained quiet for some time.

Li Zangqiu expressed concern, "Zhi Chen, why are you so quiet? Have you been working too hard lately and feeling exhausted?"