Chapter 57: A Storm Beneath Still Waters
The grand halls of the Leng estate echoed softly with the sound of footsteps. The family had returned home, but the weight of the day's events lingered in the air.
Qingxue walked ahead, her posture straight, her expression as serene as ever. She had no interest in entertaining thoughts about Gu Zeyan or his meaningless threats. Yet, she knew today wouldn't be the last time their paths crossed.
She felt Qiuhan's gaze on her. "You're thinking about it."
Qingxue tilted her head slightly. "Not in the way you think."
Qiuhan didn't press further, but his sharp gaze darkened. He had always known she was capable of handling herself, but it didn't mean he liked seeing obstacles appear in her path—especially ones like Gu Zeyan, who thought too highly of himself.
As they stepped into the lounge, their mother turned to them with a graceful smile. "Since today was rather… eventful, I think it's only fair that we balance it out with something pleasant."
Leng Jiuhan perked up. "Pleasant?"
Jiang Yuixen nodded. "Tomorrow, we'll be attending a charity gala."
Qingxue barely reacted, but her brothers groaned.
Leng Haoyu rubbed his temples. "Another one?"
"Mother, do we really have to?" Yichen whined. "They're always so boring."
Jiang Yuixen's smile deepened. "It's not just any gala. It's the annual imperial charity event hosted by the Gu family."
Silence.
Qiuhan's gaze sharpened. "Gu Linyuan's event?"
"Indeed," their mother said lightly. "The most prestigious gathering of the year, with all major families attending."
Yuxian tapped his fingers against the armrest. "A gathering of powerful figures… and wolves in sheep's clothing."
Jiang Yuixen chuckled. "That's one way to put it."
Qingxue finally spoke. "Why are we going?"
Her mother's gaze softened slightly. "Because whether you like it or not, Xue'er, you are a part of this world. And sooner or later, they will have to recognize that."
Her words carried an unspoken message.
This wasn't just an event. It was a stage.
A stage where power was displayed, where alliances were formed, and where enemies watched from the shadows.
A stage where Qingxue, whether she wished for it or not, would be the center of attention.
She met her mother's gaze and nodded. "Understood."
Leng Zhen, who had remained silent, finally spoke. "Dress accordingly. The world will be watching."
As the discussion ended, the family dispersed, each lost in their own thoughts.
And somewhere in the city, news of the Leng family's attendance had already begun to spread.
The wolves were gathering once more.
And this time, the hunt would be far more dangerous.