Part Of Our Family

"Here it is," Liling whispered to herself, her voice laced with awe. "Finally we're here."

Liling's heart raced as she took in the grandeur of the mansion, its white walls gleaming in the late evening sun, the large windows reflecting the golden light. 

The mansion's expansive grounds, manicured lawn, and delicate array of flowers exuded an aura of refinement and exclusivity, setting the stage for the impressive home that lay beyond.

The exterior exuded opulence with its predominantly white hue, delicately accented by hints of gold. The intricately carved pillars stood tall and proud, a testament to the family's vast wealth and impeccable taste in architecture.

Before the car had even fully stopped, the front door of the mansion swung open, and a girl Liling's age came rushing down the steps, her face alight with excitement. Her long hair streamed behind her as she eagerly walked towards the car.

"You guys are finally here!", she called out waving enthusiastically.

Liling had barely gotten out of the car before she was engulfed in a tight embrace. "Liling! I'm so glad I finally get to meet you!" she exclaimed, her voice bubbling with genuine warmth.

Liling's nerves eased slightly as she returned the hug, Li Xiu's sincerity comforting her. "It's so great to finally meet you, too."

Li Xiu pulled back, her eyes sparkling as she turned to Little Bun, who was standing next to Liling "Qiang! I missed you so much" she said, bending down to hug him.

Straightening up she turned back to Liling, "Gosh, I still can't believe how pretty you are. How'd this hopeless human being manage to get you to marry him?",

Li Xiu turned her attention to her brother who had just gotten out of the car, and crinkled her nose as she spoke. As far as she was concerned, Liling was out of his league.

Liling only gave a light chuckle in response while thinking, 'If only you knew',

"He's mediocre at best, and if you ask me, he takes the charm out of the word charming", Li Xiu casually continued berating her brother as she walked back to the mansion arm in arm with Liling.

"You know I'm here right?",

"Oh, I know"

He let out a defeated sigh immediately giving up on their conversation, he could never win an argument against her.

The front door opened again, and a woman who bore a striking resemblance to Li Xiu came out, her elegant figure framed by the soft glow of the mansion's lights. She descended the steps with graceful ease, her eyes shining with warmth as she approached.

"Good evening Mrs Li", Liling said as she gave a small bow to greet her. "Thank you for having us"

Her face instantly lit up with a smile as she pulled Liling into her embrace, "No need for formalities girl, you're part of our family now. Just call me Mother"

Releasing her from the hug, she turned to face her son "I can't believe you were trying to keep her away from us" she harrumphed and ignored him. Picking up Little Bun with a loving expression, she brought him inside. 

The rest of them made their way up the grand steps and into the mansion, where the warmth and elegance of the home welcomed them like an old friend.

"Come, come," Mrs. Li said, leading them into the spacious living room. "I've prepared a little something for us to enjoy before dinner."

The living room was a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication, beckoning with its circular design and extravagant furniture. It was positioned before a magnificent double grand staircase, and a waterfall crystal chandelier hanging above. It climbed up to meet at the top, creating a spacious balcony overlooking the breathtaking view of the floor below.

On the coffee table, a selection of delicate pastries, fresh fruit, and tea awaited them, beautifully arranged on fine china.

Li Jiangyu- Mr Li, was already sat with a cup of tea in his hands. He emanated a refined aura, his presence understated yet commanding. Resembling someone who only spoke when needed.

She gave a small bow while greeting him, and he nodded in approval, his calm assessing eyes giving away nothing at all. He set his tea down with a graceful movement, his long fingers carefully cradling the delicate porcelain cup. Though he remained silent, there was a softness in his eyes that conveyed his acceptance of his new daughter-in-law.

Li Hao came forward to give his father a brief, respectful nod but was met with the same reaction he had gotten from his mother. He watched his father's gaze shift to his grandson, who was busy tapping away on his tablet. A faint smile at the corner of his lips.

He sighed and sat down, accepting his fate.