Blossom In Adversity - Vol. 2

C292. Identity.

Chapter 292: Identity

“Then go ahead.”

Hua Bailin’s head shot up, a surge of joy lighting up his face. “Eldest Sister!”

Hua Zhi calmly adjusted her collar, her expression composed yet resolute. “If you want to go, then go. Just remember, your eldest sister will be waiting for you to come back stronger.”

He nodded furiously, his eagerness practically radiating off him.

Ah, the reckless impatience of youth, Hua Zhi thought to herself, suppressing a sigh. But her voice was steady, almost stern, as she spoke with conviction. “Out there, it’s nothing like being at home. You’ll face challenges, situations that test you, and the last thing you should do is act on impulse. Rash decisions are dangerous—they lead to regrets. If you ever feel unsure or overwhelmed, think of me. Think of mother. Think of our family, all of them waiting back there in the north, still longing to come home.”

She leaned in, her hand gently brushing against his slightly rounded cheek. Her smile was warm, yet her words cut deep with sharp, deliberate intent. “This path you’ve chosen? It’s yours. No one else can walk it for you—not me, not anyone. Whether you rise high or stumble and fall, the consequences belong solely to you.”

Her tone softened, but her resolve remained unshaken. “I would prefer to see you grow slowly, steadily, even if it takes longer. It would be safer, more secure, here at home. But if your heart is set on leaving, I won’t stand in your way. I won’t stop you, I won’t hold you back, and I won’t make decisions on your behalf. Your journey is your responsibility. Whether you succeed or fail, it’s all on you.”

Tears brimmed in Hua Bailin’s eyes, threatening to spill over. He couldn’t speak, could only nod vigorously, his emotions overwhelming him.

Hua Zhi silently reflected for a moment, a fleeting thought crossing her mind: I should never have children. It’s too much. The worry never ends—it consumes you.

“When you’ve finalized your departure plans, discuss them amongst yourselves. I won’t interfere. But take a few guards with you, and bring Xu Ying along—he’s proving himself capable. Liu Huai could learn a thing or two from him.”

“Yes, Eldest Sister. I’ll do exactly as you’ve said.”

“Good.” Hua Zhi lightly tapped his forehead, her gesture affectionate but firm. “Now go. Eat dinner with mother and sort this out with her yourself. Don’t think I’m going to handle that for you.”

“Understood.”

Hua Bailin practically bounded out of the room, his steps light with determination.

From the adjoining room, Xiao Liu and Yang Sui’an quietly emerged. They exchanged a quick glance, their expressions unreadable. Without a word, one headed toward the courtyard, while the other disappeared into the study, each lost in their own thoughts.

Hua Zhi's lips curled into a knowing smile as she looked at them. Her voice carried a quiet authority as she said, "Seems like you both have something you want to share with me today."

Xiao Liu met her gaze and smiled faintly before speaking. "I'm going with them."

There wasn’t even a flicker of surprise on Hua Zhi’s face. She had already figured it out the moment Xiao Liu walked in alone. But given who he was, Hua Zhi chose her words carefully, more deliberate than she would be with Bailin. "Xiao Liu, it’s not my place to approve or oppose your decision."

His expression betrayed his disappointment, but Hua Zhi didn’t soften her tone. She wasn’t the type to offer shallow reassurances. Instead, she laid it out clearly, her voice cutting like steel.