Su Ning arrived before the grand gates of Villa Two, the package held carefully in one hand, her steps deliberate and graceful. She pressed the golden bell, and the soft chime echoed faintly in the evening air, mingling with the faint rustle of the garden trees.
She adjusted her posture subtly, the hem of her elegantly modern outfit swaying as she shifted her weight to one foot, exuding confidence without arrogance. A minute later, the massive gates opened with a soft hiss.
Stepping into the driveway, her boots clicked rhythmically against the polished cobblestones, their sound faint yet striking in the quiet courtyard.
Two maids emerged almost immediately from the main hall, their eyes widening and mouths parting slightly in astonishment.
They had clearly not expected a visitor of such beauty and radiance. After the first reaction earlier, she was already accustomed to this reaction; a small, knowing smile tugged at her lips.
Su Ning inclined her head lightly, her smile gentle but confident. "Good evening. I would like to see General Wang Teng, please," she said, her tone courteous but carrying a natural authority that made it impossible to dismiss her.
"G—good evening, miss," one maid stammered, her voice trembling slightly. She glanced at her companion, who was similarly frozen.
The maids exchanged nervous glances. "May I ask who you are, miss?" one finally managed, voice quivering.
Before Su Ning could answer, Wang Teng appeared, stepping down from the porch with a commanding presence. His tall, upright posture, despite in his sixties and disciplined aura immediately drew the attention of everyone in the vicinity.
His sharp eyes scanned her calmly but attentively. At his side was a middle-aged man, equally imposing, with a muscular frame and disciplined posture, showing respect yet alertness in his every movement.
Su Ning instinctively recognized him as one of Wang Teng's subordinates, likely a soldier of high skill and loyalty.
The maids quickly bowed in unison, heads lowered. Wang Teng's aura was very intimidating that ordinary people would find it hard to stand steadily before him.
Su Ning took a deep breath and released her aura subtly which dispersed the uncomfortable feeling, she relaxed and was able to breathe fine.
Wang Teng and the man paused as they noticed her, she maintained steady eye contact as she approached, her expression calm and inviting.
She gave a polite, almost imperceptible tilt of her head in greeting.
"Good evening General Wang and this gentleman."
Wang Teng's eyes narrowed ever so slightly, curiosity flickering across his face. Most people would have cowered or lowered their gaze under his aura, but she did neither. Her composure was remarkable. He smiled faintly, impressed.
The middle-aged man at his side, however, was visibly shocked. He sensed the subtle suppressing aura emanating from her—calm, controlled, yet undeniably present. For a young girl to project such a presence without aggression or intimidation was unprecedented.
"How can I help you, young lady?" Wang Teng asked, his voice deep and steady, commanding attention without raising it.
"My name is Su Ning," she began, voice smooth, articulate, carrying both youth and poise. "I live nearby, and this package was mistakenly delivered to me. I wanted to ensure it reached you personally." She extended the package with careful precision, her fingers poised, her posture impeccable.
The middle-aged man stepped forward, inspecting the package briefly before nodding respectfully toward Wang Teng.
"Hmm…how did you recognize me, and how did you know the package was from me?" Wang Teng asked, curiosity evident in his eyes. His gaze was both sharp and analytical, probing for the source of her confidence.
Su Ning's smile deepened, her demeanor calm. "I have seen you on television, General, and studied your accomplishments in my classes. I even learned about your coordination during the flood relief last year, it was remarkable how efficiently you organized the rescue and supplies. I found it admirable." Her tone was sincere but never fawning, precise yet warm.
Wang Teng let out a low, appreciative chuckle, nodding. "Impressive…you're well-informed and articulate. Not many your age would have that level of insight." His eyes lingered on her thoughtfully, a mixture of amusement and respect flickering in his gaze.
"I also noticed markings on the package resembling Morse code," Su Ning continued smoothly. "So I deduced that the package was intended for you."
Wang Teng's sharp features softened slightly, and he gave a subtle nod of approval. "You're observant, clever, and…different from your peers. Quite remarkable for someone your age," he said, shaking his head slightly as if marveling at her composure and insight. He muttered quietly, almost to himself, "I wish those two brats were like her."
He paused, then asked, "Which school do you attend?"
"I am a student at Fuyuan Academy," Su Ning replied calmly, her posture unshakable.
Wang Teng nodded once, acknowledging her answer, before turning to gesture toward the villa. "Thank you for bringing this package. Please, come in."
"Then I won't stand on ceremony." Su Ning's directness impressed him further. She did not linger in unnecessary politeness or empty flattery; she was clear and purposeful. The middle-aged man saluted Wang Teng briefly before leaving.
Following Wang Teng into the villa, Su Ning noted the differences immediately. The interior was sophisticated yet inviting, with subtle lighting casting warm tones across high ceilings and polished marble floors. Every piece of furniture seemed deliberately chosen, elegant and refined.
From the grand staircase, Madam Wang descended, her eyes immediately widening at Su Ning.
She gasped softly, placing her hands on her chest. "Oh dear…" she murmured, a mixture of delight and awe evident in her tone. Her gaze lingered, assessing, yet warm, as if she could sense the strength and poise beneath Su Ning's youthful exterior.
"What is your name, child?" she asked, her voice filled with genuine curiosity and admiration.
"I am Su Ning," she replied politely, inclining her head slightly.
"Oh, Su Ning…what a beautiful name!" Madam Wang said, visibly enchanted. She stepped forward, reaching out toward Su Ning with genuine warmth. "You are such a pretty little thing, you simply must come visit often okay," she gushed, momentarily ignoring her husband, clearly knowing that if he personally brought Su Ning here, she must be exceptional.
The maids arrived shortly after, bearing a tray of snacks and tea. Su Ning seated herself with effortless elegance, and soon her conversation with Madam Wang flowed naturally.
Fashion, skincare, and lifestyle topics passed between them with ease, the dialogue effortless and genuine. Su Ning found herself laughing softly at the shared interests, realizing how rare it was to connect so naturally with someone older yet still attuned to modern trends.
Madam Wang's tone softened, the warmth in her voice palpable. "Little Ning, how about your parents, are they home?" she asked gently.
Su Ning's smile was faint, tinged with melancholy. "They…have passed away," she admitted quietly.
Madam Wang's eyes filled with compassion, and she reached forward, pulling Su Ning into a soft, comforting embrace. "Oh, my dear…that must have been difficult. Remember, you are always welcome here," she murmured, her voice tender and sincere.
Moments later, the twins, Wang Peihan and Wang Shaoting appeared, descending the staircase.
Both were striking in appearance and demeanor, with the casual arrogance and confidence typical of youth. Peihan's hair was dyed black and purple, a nose ring glinting as she wore a baggy shirt over a black mini skirt. Her nails were painted deep red, her fingers adorned with subtle yet sophisticated rings.
Shaoting's dark, disheveled hair framed a face carrying an intense gaze, his outfit a rebellious "bad boy" mix of leather jacket, ripped jeans, and combat boots, a lip ring adding to his dangerous charm.
Both paused, stunned by Su Ning's presence, astonished by her charm, until Madam Wang's voice snapped them out of their stupor.
"Shaoting, Peihan, quickly come and meet little Ning."
The tip of Shaoting's ears flushed a faint pink, as he sank into a chair quietly, still observing Su Ning with occasional glances.
Wang Peihan, on the other hand, approached boldly. "Oh my God, your skin…your hair…how is it so flawless? What skincare brand do you use? Your lashes…are they natural?" she asked rapidly, almost breathlessly, fascinated.
Su Ning smiled faintly, amused by the energy, yet patient, enjoying their curiosity.
Wang Teng intervened softly. "Peihan enough with it…you should learn from Su Ning, you are all peers but she is smarter and elegant. Observe her demeanor, her composure and stop messing around."
The twins exchanged looks. Shaoting remained red-faced, while Peihan teased Wang Teng lightly. "Yo, gramps, how can you say that? We are top of our classes too, it's okay to be wild at this age, we won't be able to do it when we are at yours."
"You—" Wang Teng was speechless, he could only shake his head as he smiled dotingly.
Then she stopped and turned to her brother.
"Shaoting, why are you so quiet, it's strange...Ah! why are you so red?" She put on a teasing expression "Bro, are you blushing? Awwww, that's so cute"
"I-I'm not!" Shaoting stuttered, quickly trying to regain his composure. "Stop saying nonsense!"
The room filled with laughter, Su Ning smiling quietly, appreciating the genuine warmth of the family.
At a lull, she turned to Madam Wang "I'm so sorry I didn't bring any gift"
Madam Wang waved her hand gracefully. "Nonsense, just your company is more than enough," she reassured her warmly. She then asked about her living situation.
Su Ning carefully crafted her explanation, remembering she could later use her puppets to fill gaps in her story. "My aunt and uncle live abroad, so I stay alone. They often visit when possible though."
By nightfall, Su Ning rose to leave. Madam Wang quickly prepared a fruit basket. "Please, take this with you child," she said warmly. Su Ning accepted, bowing politely.
The twins walked her to the front of Villa One.
"Wow, you live in Villa One? Your family must be powerful, I thought it was an old rugged man living there..." Wang Peihan gushed in awe. "Can I come in?"
Before Su Ning could respond, Wang Shaoting interrupted. "Don't be such a nuisance brat, it's late, let's go home," he turned to Su Ning barely maintaining eye contact as his ears grew red. "Uhm...goodnight"
"Goodnight." Su Ning replied, amused.
"Since when did you even start playing nice you prick" Wang Peihan whined as she followed him reluctantly.
"Shut up!"
Su Ning smiled, a flicker of satisfaction and quiet amusement as she watched as they bantered off before stepping through her gate.