The atmosphere in the dining room had noticeably shifted when Chaoxiang entered the room.
The jovial banter and relaxed conversations that had filled the space just moments before seemed to evaporate, replaced by an air of formality and unease. Cai Li exchanged a knowing look with her husband, recognizing the tension that had settled in the room.
Chaoxiang settled into his seat at the head of the table, and the rest of the family followed suit. He began by addressing his children, seeking to engage them in conversation about their lives.
"Ru Shi, how has your work been? Pan An, any updates from your work in the university?" His voice, while polite, carried an undercurrent of formality.
Ru Shi and Pan An exchanged glances, their unease apparent as they struggled to maintain eye contact with their father. They were not accustomed to openly sharing details of their personal lives with him. Years of his strict demeanor had left them cautious and reserved around him.
