The grand hall glittered with chandeliers, but the air was thick with unspoken tension.
Jin Zixuan's footsteps echoed as he followed his parents and sisters into the lion's den — the Feng family estate's heart.
There, lounging on a velvet chair like a silver-tongued snake wrapped in silk, was Feng Liangchen.
His smile was a masterclass in honeyed charm — eyes soft, voice smooth as silk, every gesture perfectly measured.
"Zixuan, dear brother," he cooed, voice dripping with saccharine sweetness. "It's been so long. I almost missed you."
["Yeah, right. Missed you like a cat misses a bath."]
Jin Zixuan folded his arms.
["Behind that 'innocent angel' act is a manipulator who makes poison look like perfume."]
Liangchen's gaze flicked to the family as if to silently say "Look how beloved I am."
"Everyone's just thrilled you're finally back. We've all been worried about you," he added, voice soft but with an edge no one dared point out.
Ergouzi buzzed quietly.
[Ergouzi]:
FYI, Host: He's currently planning to cozy up with your fiancée at dinner, and slip you some poison… figuratively speaking.
["Nice try, green tea boy. You're about as subtle as a cat in a glassware store."]
Jin Zixuan's voice was calm, but razor-sharp.
"Save the syrup. I'm not here to play along."
Liangchen blinked, then flashed a smile so sweet it almost made Jin gag.
"Of course, brother. I only want what's best for the family."
["Spoiler: What's 'best' means he wins and you lose."]
Then Liangchen leaned in, voice dropping to a whisper meant only for Jin.
"Funny how some people spread rumors... but you wouldn't stoop to their level, right?"
Jin's eyes narrowed.
["Nice try. But I'm not the one playing innocent while stabbing backs."]
Suddenly, Su Ningxue entered, radiant and composed like a queen surveying her court.
She shot Jin a cool smile.
"Oh, Zixuan, you always say things so… bluntly. Maybe you should think before you speak."
Jin smirked.
["Face slap incoming. I'm just here for the show."]
[Ergouzi]:
Alert: High chance of emotional whiplash at tomorrow's dinner.
Jin shrugged.
"Bring it on."