Ficool

Chapter 13 - The Family Banquet

Wang Laojiu might indulge in his little daydreams, but deep down, he knew better.

The Lin family—what kind of status did they hold?They were the foremost of Beijing's Four Great Families.

And Lin Han? He was the textbook definition of a "third-generation elite." A political heir, a wealthy heir, the only son and eldest grandson of the Lin family's direct bloodline.

By comparison, the Wang family was just… comfortable. At best, they were considered well-off. But compared to the Lins, it was like comparing a palace garden to a public outhouse.

Shaking his head with a wry smile, Wang Laojiu muttered,"This isn't a matchmaking setup. In terms of family background, we're leagues apart—so far it's not even in the same universe. We could never measure up."

"What? Since when is our family beneath anyone else's?"

Liu Ya's voice instantly jumped an octave, her face darkening.

"Well… actually, yes."

Wang Laojiu sighed helplessly. "The young man is Lin Han—the eldest grandson of the Lin family in Beijing."

"…"

Liu Ya was left speechless, utterly caught off guard.

She had only been complaining out of frustration—after all, what era was this? Who still talked about family backgrounds like it was the feudal age?

But when it came to Lin Han's identity… if this had been ancient times, wouldn't he be the equivalent of a royal heir, a bona fide prince?

Sitting quietly on the side, Wang Chuxue had relaxed a little when she realized this wasn't some blind date. But as the truth unfolded, a flicker of dissatisfaction stirred inside her.

This wasn't a feudal society anymore. People talked about freedom in marriage; who cared about status or family background?

If two people liked each other, wasn't that enough?

All this talk of "suitable matches" felt suffocatingly outdated. With her looks, she told herself, she could match even an immortal.

Though resentment simmered in her heart, outwardly Chuxue remained the picture of quiet grace. Sitting demurely with a faint smile, she looked like the very image of a gentle lamb.

Her entire life had revolved around one word: obedience.

Her father had hired a dozen tutors for her—equestrian, archery, golf, classical music, calligraphy, tea ceremonies, even Western etiquette. Whether it was traditional culture or modern refinement, domestic or international, she had to master it all.

Her mother's role was to enforce strict planning: top five in every exam, a world top-ten university for college, and even in her career, she was expected to be the best in every single project.

Every goal her parents had ever dreamed of, they placed squarely on Chuxue's shoulders. She became the textbook "perfect daughter" everyone envied—obedient, polite, elegant, and refined.

No one thought she was pretending. She never showed cracks in her façade, bottling up all her emotions deep inside, quietly accumulating pressure.

Like a battery endlessly storing energy. Like a volcano biding its time before an inevitable eruption.

She longed for something different—a freer world beyond the walls of expectations. She craved rebellion, defiance, danger, and thrill.

All she needed was the right moment.

Around ten o'clock that morning, a motorcade of five luxury cars rolled up to the Wang family's mansion in Nanshan Estate.

From the extended Rolls-Royce Phantom at the center, a bodyguard opened the door, and Lin Han stepped out.

Today, he was dressed in a casual yet refined style: a light blue shirt paired with tailored suspenders and slacks. The look carried a refreshing elegance, effortlessly charming.

After all, this was a family gathering, not a state banquet. Overdressing would only feel pretentious, even disrespectful.

The Wang family's steward hurried inside to announce the arrival.

Inside the main hall, Wang Laojiu, dressed in a gray Tang jacket that lent him a cultured air, immediately rose to his feet. Calling for his wife and daughter, the three of them went out together to greet their guest.

The moment their eyes landed on Lin Han waiting at the door, it was as though a veil had lifted and moonlight shone through.

So this is the heir of the Lin family… truly extraordinary.

Both Wang Laojiu and Liu Ya marveled inwardly, impressed by Lin Han's presence.

They weren't country bumpkins—they had met plenty of rich heirs and influential young masters before. But not a single one could compare.

No matter how prominent, none could shine beside him. Like fireflies against a full moon, others simply faded when Lin Han was around. He was, without question, the center of attention wherever he went.

And yet, despite his noble background, there wasn't the slightest hint of arrogance or disdain in him.

His warm, approachable smile carried the gentleness of a spring breeze, disarming and irresistible.

"Wow… he's so handsome…"

Even Wang Chuxue couldn't help but gasp inwardly, her delicate cheeks flushing pink as her heart raced. Her earlier frustration melted away in an instant.

Their subtle reactions did not escape Lin Han's sharp eyes—everything was unfolding exactly as he intended.

His gift for putting people at ease could sway even someone like Luo Bingyan, who had once wished for his sudden demise. Compared to that, winning over this family—who already bore him no ill will—was child's play.

"Uncle Tianxiang, Auntie Ya, Little Sister Chuxue."

Lin Han greeted each warmly by name, his voice carrying both respect and familiarity.

Such intimacy stunned the Wang family, delight flooding their hearts.

It meant Lin Han had done his homework. It meant he truly cared about this visit.

Especially for Chuxue, hearing the words "Little Sister Chuxue" nearly made her heart melt on the spot.

They quickly returned his greetings with smiles, bowing slightly in gratitude.

"Lin, my dear nephew, please, come inside! It's chilly out here—let's talk inside, talk inside."

Without a shred of elder's aloofness, Wang Laojiu enthusiastically took Lin Han by the arm and ushered him into the hall.

The interior was decorated in a traditional style, furnished entirely with huanghuali rosewood armchairs—simple yet elegant.

Once seated, Lin Han signaled to his attendants, who brought forward the gifts he had prepared.

"Uncle Tianxiang, this is my first visit, and I wasn't sure what to bring. I heard you enjoy tea, so I purchased this set of Yixing clay teaware from Mr. Liu Jinyan in the old capital. I hope you'll accept it."

The choice was thoughtful—neither too extravagant nor too humble, perfectly suited for a first visit.

Liu Jinyan was a respected master of modern Yixing pottery. While not an antique, the set still carried prestige and collectible value.

"Ah, nephew Lin, your visit alone is more than enough. You didn't need to bring a gift! This is far too kind."

Grinning ear to ear, Wang Laojiu quickly turned to his daughter.

"Chuxue, go bring out the pastries you made earlier."

Then, beaming at Lin Han, he added,

"These treats are all handmade by my girl herself. Especially the osmanthus cakes—you absolutely must try them."

Lin Han feigned pleasant surprise and chuckled."To think that Little Sister Chuxue, a young lady of such grace, also possesses such talent in the kitchen. Uncle Tianxiang, you've made me eager already—I can't wait to try them, hahaha."

His words were perfectly measured, casually flattering yet utterly sincere.

And just like that, he had them all glowing with pride and joy.

More Chapters