The dining hall was full.
Warm light spilled across the long table, where every surface was laden with carefully prepared dishes. Overlapping voices filled the space with light conversation and quiet laughter, creating a rare sense of ease.
The entire Jun family was present.
Jun Haoxuan sat at the head, composed as always. Beside him were the others, his parents in attendance, along with An Moshang, Yan Wuhen, and Rong Yue.
Only one seat remained empty. Lan Meishan.
Ningyan didn't look at it. Not even once.
When the children were brought in, the atmosphere was brighter.
Curious eyes turned toward them, filled with warmth and acceptance rather than scrutiny.
They were welcomed without hesitation, drawn into the gathering as if they had always belonged.
Ningyan found himself barely eating.
His attention stayed on them. On the way they hesitated at first, then slowly relaxed.
