The weight of Cai Li's refusal echoed in the confines of Pan An's mind, each word reverberating with a sense of finality that left him grappling with the complexity of their familial dynamics.
Ru Shi's gaze flitted between her brother and mother, her confusion mirroring the turmoil that churned within her.
They had always understood their mother's unwavering dedication to their happiness, a solemn promise she had made to herself after the tragic loss of their elder sibling.
Yet, her sudden opposition to Pan An's plan left them reeling with unanswered questions and a sense of profound bewilderment.
Pan An's brow furrowed with a mixture of concern and frustration as he sought to comprehend the depth of his mother's reservations.
He had always believed that Cai Li would stand by their side, prioritizing their happiness above all else, especially in matters of the heart.