Chapter Forty: Family Banquet, Part Two

A family as illustrious as the Ho clan is the very picture of status and privilege. The eldest grandson, the seventh generation head, young, wealthy, and strikingly handsome, was the ideal future partner for nearly every woman. Ling Tian Ho was like a rare flower blooming amidst a sea of admirers—wherever he went, men and women alike would flock to him, hoping to catch his attention, or at least be seen in his presence to increase their own standing. And the woman at his side, Qing Rong, had become a public enemy among women and an object of admiration among men; wherever she appeared, sparks flew and tension crackled in the air.

At this moment, a compact gathering had formed around Ling Tian Ho, the focal point of the crowd. After all, it had been years since the master of the Ho family had attended such an event; even the most trivial words from his lips were enough to grant the lesser branches of the family a moment in the spotlight.

“Ling Tian?” A young woman approached, dressed in a short white wrap dress, radiating purity and charm. Her long, lustrous black hair fell naturally to her waist, and her every gesture spoke of tranquility and elegance. Even in her quiet delight, she remained composed—a true lady, as if she had stepped out from an ink painting, noble and refined, inviting admiration.

The sight of this woman drew several glances from Qing Rong. Saturated as she was by beauty in the entertainment world, the grace of a true lady was far more captivating. Mere physical allure was superficial; true nobility and cultivation were qualities that could not be feigned or learned.

“Yu Xin Wu…” Ling Tian Ho, whose memory for women was typically scant, evidently recognized her immediately. His familiar smile was uncharacteristically warm, a marked contrast to his usual reserve. In that instant, Qing Rong sensed the depth of their relationship, and a subtle ache spread within her—a hollow, drifting sensation.

“You’ve returned to the country?” Ling Tian Ho’s brow drew together slightly as he addressed her, and the two began to converse, oblivious to the crowd’s attentive gaze.

Yu Xin Wu’s gentle smile grew brighter, her fresh beauty accentuated by the white ensemble she wore. In contrast, the same white, when worn by Qing Rong, evoked the allure of a temptress in the night. Yu Xin Wu, however, was ethereal, like a sprite fallen to earth.

“You know how Grandfather has been urging me to return. I had to put my studies on hold,” Yu Xin Wu replied, her tone tinged with petulant resignation, yet every word was intimate. Ling Tian Ho may not have noticed, but Qing Rong, eyes narrowed, scrutinized this seemingly innocent heiress.

Ling Tian Ho nodded in mild agreement, his tone that of a kindly elder persuading a child. “Old Master Wu is nearing seventy. You should spend some time with him. And your studies in business management will surely benefit your family as well.”

A shadow crossed Yu Xin Wu’s eyes, and she replied with a touch of shyness, “I just ran into you as soon as I got back, Ling Tian. I haven’t found much to do these past few days. I was thinking of working at Ho Corporation—putting my NBA degree to the test.”

Ling Tian Ho’s gaze grew inscrutable. Yu Xin Wu regarded him with a placid smile. “There’s no hurry for that,” he replied smoothly. “You’ve just returned; you should rest. Besides, working for me would be hard to explain to your grandfather.” With these words, he deftly set the matter aside.

Although Yu Xin Wu didn’t get the answer she wanted, the easy, familiar conversation with Ling Tian Ho gave her a boost of confidence. She glanced at Qing Rong, her expression laced with disdain and triumph—how could someone of such humble origins ever hope to ascend to the Ho family? It was nothing but a wild fantasy.

Qing Rong observed her provocation coldly. She was not one to be bullied, yet for some reason, a deep sense of helplessness and the anxiety of their three-month agreement’s approaching end gnawed at her.

“Ling Tian, who is this by your side?” Yu Xin Wu deliberately ignored Qing Rong, turning to ask.

Lost in thought, Qing Rong didn’t notice Ling Tian Ho’s gentle gaze. He possessively took hold of her hand. “A friend of mine,” he replied, his voice tender. “A very important friend.”

The gesture, the tone, the words—these made Yu Xin Wu’s expression shift, her eyes troubled and difficult to read.

“I see…” Her voice was heavy with disappointment and grievance, but Ling Tian Ho’s attention was wholly fixed on the woman beside him; he had no room for anyone else’s feelings.

“Qing, the cake here is superb. It was baked by the Ho family’s private chef. Try some…” Ling Tian Ho, well aware of her fondness for sweets, had specially summoned the chef from the main residence for this occasion.

He led her to the dining area, where exquisite French and Italian cakes tempted the palate. The delicate sweetness brought a contented smile to Qing Rong’s face, as though she were a kitten savoring stolen cream. She unconsciously licked a smear of cheese from her lips, and Ling Tian Ho’s gaze deepened, like a tranquil well turning fathomless.

Leaning close, his lips brushing her ear, his breath warm and intimate, he murmured, “Qing, do you like the cake?”

Caught in her enjoyment, a jolt of electricity shot through her at his words. She glared at him in mock indignation. “If you’re so curious, why don’t you try it yourself?” She had no intention of humoring him.

“But what I want to taste most is you…” His words dripped with affection, and yet the man at her side spoke them with perfect composure, his face giving nothing away. Qing Rong itched to strip away that dignified mask and show the world the Ho family master’s true colors.

“Hmph.” She handed her fork to Ling Tian Ho. “Why don’t you go spend time with your dear little sister instead?” With that, she turned on her heel and strode out to the garden.

Ling Tian Ho touched his nose in helpless amusement, a glint of delight in his eyes. Jealous, are we? A promising sign…

——— Author’s Note ———
Today’s update is late; I’ve been in class all day and I’m exhausted…