I See...

The car door opened, and the noise from outside surged forward like a wave.

Li Hao stepped out first, his tall, commanding figure instantly drawing the attention of the cameras. Flashes erupted in a blinding storm, and voices called out his name from all directions. He turned, extending his hand to help Liling out of the car.

Liling took his hand, stepping gracefully onto the red carpet. The moment her foot touched the ground, the flurry of cameras turned their attention to her, the flashes reflecting off the shimmering bodice of her gown. She held her head high, a light smile on her face as she met the barrage of attention.

Beside her, Li Hao was a steadying presence, his fingers now laced with hers.

Little Bun emerged last, holding onto Liling's hand tightly. His eyes were wide as he looked around at the sea of people and flashing lights. The cameras immediately turned their lenses on him, the sight of him in his tuxedo drawing a wave of adoration from the crowd.

Everyone else on the red carpet seemed to be forgotten at that very moment. The appearance of the stunning family had easily taken their breaths and attention away.

"Mr. Li, over here! Is this your son?" a reporter called out, trying to push closer for a better shot. "Who's your gorgeous date?"

Li Hao ignored the questions, his expression remaining unperturbed. Altogether, they made their way up the red carpet, moving with the ease of people who were used to being in the spotlight.

Up front of the carpet, LIling's eyes locked on to someone she hadn't expected to see there. 

It was Zhao Mei.

She was dressed in a white satin floor-length dress. With intricate detailing and rhinestones adorning the top of the sweetheart neckline. The bodice streamlined down to a flowing A-line skirt with a slit going up her thigh, creating a timeless and sophisticated look. 

As their eyes met for the briefest of seconds, Liling could see the hatred in her eyes, as bone-chilling as it had been that day. She turned back to face the cameras reverting to her sweet and charming facade. However, this time Liling could say without a doubt that the hatred in her eyes was real. The only question now, was— why?

Pushing the thoughts to the back of her mind, she turned her attention back to the grandeur of the grand entrance. They walked through the opulent lobby and were greeted by a line of staff that led them to the banquet hall.

The hall was a marvel of architecture, its high ceilings adorned with intricate frescoes, and ornate waterfall chandeliers. The white walls were lined with gold and black accents and the large mirrors mounted brought a palatial feeling to the entirety of the space. 

It had been decorated appropriately for the banquet that evening with large floral arrangements of white lilies, filling the air with the scent of fresh blooms. The tables and chairs were set with white linen and arranged at the far end to create a long aisle leading to the large stage at the front of the hall. 

They moved further into the hall, and as expected the questioning looks of the quests turned towards them. Whispers and murmurs followed their path as they walked towards his grandparents. There was one question in all their minds — Who was she? and why was she with Li Hao?

Liling glanced down at Little Bun to check on him and make sure he wasn't being overwhelmed by all that was happening around them. Little Bun, however, was calm, his eyes taking in the splendour of everything. 

Li Hao's grandparents stood at the front with Li Hao's parents. Although aged, they still exuded an air of grace, commanding respect and admiration by all. 

His grandfather was a tall, dignified man with silver hair. He wore a perfectly tailored grey suit, and his eyes were sharp and observant. His grandmother was elegantly dressed in a long white qipao dress with gold beading, and her silver hair had been pulled into a simple low bun with a white hairpin holding it down. They looked like a perfect traditional couple.

His parents and sister stood not too far off behind them and Little Bun had run off to hug Mrs Li.

"Grandpa, Grandma," Li Hao greeted giving a small bow upon reaching them. 

They turned to meet him, smiles gracing their faces. "Li Hao, my boy!" Grandfather Li's voice boomed as he stepped forward, pulling his grandson into a hearty embrace.

Pulling out of the hug with a smile, he continued "I'd like to introduce you to my wife, Liling"

Liling stepped forward naturally, her smile steady. She bowed slightly, a gesture of respect. "It's an honour to meet you both," she said, her voice sincere.

Master Li— Li Hao's grandfather, smiled warmly in return, his eyes softening as he looked at Liling. "The honour is ours, my dear," he said, extending a hand to her. "Li Xiu has spoken very highly of you. Welcome to the family."

Liling felt relief she didn't know she needed at his words and took his hand, her smile widening. "Thank you, sir. I'm grateful to be here."

Li Xiu moved closer to Liling, practically bouncing, her energy as vibrant as ever. She grinned widely as she hugged Liling. Addressing her grandparents she spoke, "Didn't I tell you, she's really beautiful, right? She's also extremely nice"

Master Li chuckled nodding and agreeing with Li Xiu. "Yes, extremely beautiful as well"

Thanking him with a growing blush, her gaze turned to Li Hao's grandmother, who had remained silent so far. Her eyes had narrowed slightly as she took in Liling's appearance. The air between them felt suddenly tense as Liling noticed the disapproval etched in the older woman's eyes.

Li Hao's grandmother turned to Li Hao and asked, "So this is the woman you chose to marry?" Her voice carried an obvious condescending edge, and Liling could immediately tell she was being looked down upon. 

Li Hao's jaw tightened almost imperceptibly, but his voice remained calm as he responded. "Yes, Grandma, Liling is my wife, and I couldn't be happier to have her by my side"

As she hummed, his grandmother's lips pressed into a thin line, her disapproval now on full display. 

What should have been a joyful introduction was now turning into a scene and attracting the curious eyes of the guests. Although they couldn't hear what was going on, it was clear something was happening.

"I see..." She continued, "And what family does she come from?"