The air in the Leng estate was light, but an undercurrent of tension remained. While Ruolan's words had failed to shake Qingxue, they had left a lingering thought in Jiang Yuixen's mind.
Later that evening, as the family gathered for dinner, the atmosphere was unusually warm. Leng Yichen and Leng Jiuhan were engaged in a playful argument over dessert, while Leng Haoyu listened with a small smirk. Leng Zhaoyan, ever the quiet one, watched from the side, while Leng Yuxian calmly enjoyed his meal.
Jiang Yuixen tapped her wine glass lightly, drawing the attention of everyone at the table. "I was thinking," she said smoothly, "it's been a while since we all went out together."
Qingxue raised an eyebrow. "Mother?"
Jiang Yuixen smiled knowingly. "Let's go shopping."
Leng Jiuhan groaned dramatically. "Mother, must we?"
Jiang Yuixen shot him a warning look. "Yes. You've all been so busy, but it's important to enjoy life too." She turned her gaze to Qingxue and Qiuhan. "And I want to see how my little ones have grown."
Qiuhan's expression remained cool, but Qingxue caught the flicker of amusement in his eyes.
Leng Zhen, who had been silent, finally spoke. "It's not a bad idea."
That settled it.
The next morning, the entire Leng family stepped out in full force.
They arrived at the most exclusive shopping district in the city, their presence instantly drawing attention. People whispered, envious and awed at the sight of the striking siblings, each one a figure of perfection.
Qingxue, dressed in an elegant white ensemble, walked beside her mother, while Qiuhan trailed slightly behind with Leng Yuxian.
Not far away, a figure watched them.
Gu Zeyan had been passing through the district when he caught sight of them. His gaze naturally landed on Qingxue, his sharp golden eyes darkening slightly.
She hadn't noticed him yet.
But he wasn't the only one watching.
Ruolan stood nearby, hidden by a crowd, her nails digging into her palms.
She should have expected this.
The Lengs never did anything small. Even a shopping trip felt like a declaration of dominance.
And worst of all—Gu Zeyan's gaze was fixed on Qingxue, with an intensity that sent a burning resentment through her.
She clenched her fists.
If Qingxue wanted to act untouchable, then Ruolan would simply make sure she wasn't.
Because this time, she wouldn't let Qingxue win.