Xia Wantang was fussed over by two people, from head to toe, not a single strand of hair left untouched.
After a full two hours, she was completely transformed.
Her hair was styled into an intricate updo, her face lightly made up, and her clothes had been changed.
The string of purple diamond necklaces adorning her neck was the perfect finishing touch, exuding nobility and luxury with a hint of mystery.
Ling Yuchen had been watching from the side, observing her transformation step by step.
She had changed from a small pink begonia flower into a stunning, captivating rose, more sensual and alluring than words could describe.
Xia Wantang fiddled with the hem of her clothes, feeling somewhat uneasy, and asked nervously, "Am I okay like this?"
Ling Yuchen's gaze was fixated on her, regretting even a little that he had asked for her to be dressed like this; her beauty was meant only for him to behold!
The makeup artist and stylist had already discreetly withdrawn.
Ling Yuchen looked at her with burning eyes, cleared his throat, his voice growing husky.
"What if I want to do it now?"
Xia Wantang was startled, retreating two steps in fear and covering her chest.
"Don't do anything rash, I just finished getting ready."
Seeing the sheer panic in her clear, bright eyes, Ling Yuchen's breathing deepened, his narrow, cold eyes tinged with crimson.
Xia Wantang watched him approach step by step, her breathing growing erratic, like a startled fawn.
"You... don't come any closer... tonight, is tonight okay?"
Ling Yuchen halted his steps, about two paces away from her, gazing at her deeply, his eyes filled with restrained desire.
As if deliberately provoking her, his voice became magnetic and seductive, "Hmm? Tangtang means you want to do it too, but we have to wait until tonight."
Xia Wantang's face suddenly flushed, a mixture of embarrassment and anger; that was not what she meant at all!
Ling Yuchen felt his mouth go dry, licking his thin lips, his gaze deepening, he said, "I'll deal with you tonight."
Xia Wantang didn't want to bother with him anymore. She knew his character; he could do whatever he wanted, whenever he wanted, and she didn't know where he got so much energy.
She was certain that if he hadn't restrained himself earlier, he would have just gone ahead without a second thought.
She quickly exited the room, and only then did Xia Wantang breathe a sigh of relief; out here, he wouldn't dare to act recklessly.
Watching her flee, Ling Yuchen couldn't help but let out a light laugh, then followed closely behind her.
As noon approached.
The courtyard gradually became lively, with the banquet set up in another large dining hall.
Guests arrived in an endless stream, men in suits and ties, women in dazzling dresses, a vibrant display of long gowns and evening wear.
Zhu Yunfei and Ling Junye mingled, handling social relations with ease.
Elder Madam Ling and Elder Master Ling had not yet appeared; the place was too noisy and not suitable for the elderly.
They were still in their original courtyard, though a few familiar old friends had gone to keep them company.
Xia Wantang and Ling Yuchen were also to accompany them first before making their grand entrance at the banquet.
In the spacious living room, several elderly members from the four major families were seated in their respective spots.
Elder Master Li, leaning on his cane, his face wrinkled with age, white hair and beard, spoke with a surprisingly strong voice.
"Old Ling, just two more years and you'll see your great-grandchildren."
He had no regrets; his eldest grandson, Li Boqian, had both children, and his second grandson, Li Bowen, had a girlfriend.
He would be content as long as he saw his grandchildren settled down.
It was just a pity that he had lost his wife in middle age and had lived alone for the rest of his life.
Elder Master Ling waved his hand, smiling amiably, but his expression was calm:
"At this age, who knows when I might fall asleep and not wake up. I don't have many expectations. I'll be content as long as Yuchen gets married."
He was quite philosophical, for life is rarely perfect.
He had grown old with his wife, his family was harmonious, and his grandchildren were settled; he was truly content.
One only needs to live with contentment, and there is nothing truly unforgettable.
"Alas, I envy you," Elder Madam Jiang sighed at this moment.
"My family only has Zexi as a single heir, but this child is stubbornly devoted to Jinning. At my age, how can I face my old man?"
"Try to take things lightly. Perhaps Zexi will bring a wife to see you one day," Elder Madam Ling patted her shoulder in comfort.
At their age, there was not much to worry about.
Only one thing, and that was to have a house full of grandchildren.
"Let's not talk about this."
Elder Madam Jiang clearly didn't want to discuss this topic.
She asked, "Why don't I see your grandson and granddaughter-in-law?"
"They'll be here soon!"
Elder Madam Ling glanced at the wall clock; it was almost eleven o'clock. They should be finished with their tasks by now!
Just as she spoke, footsteps were heard from outside, and it was Ling Yuchen, leading Xia Wantang in.
Elder Madam Ling's face lit up with joy as she stood up and pulled Xia Wantang over, introducing her, "This is my granddaughter-in-law, her name is Tangtang."
Elder Madam Jiang scrutinized her and nodded in praise, "She's a pretty girl, with a bright aura."
"She's quite lovely. Yuchen has good taste," Elder Master Li added casually in support, then fell silent.
"This is Grandpa Li from the Li family, and this is Grandma Jiang from the Jiang family."
"Hello, Grandpa Li, hello, Grandma Jiang."
Xia Wantang understood. It seemed these were the grandfathers of Li Bowen and the grandmother of Jiang Zexi.
Only the two elders from the Situ family were missing.
Elder Madam Ling pulled Xia Wantang to sit beside her and couldn't help but praise, "My granddaughter-in-law is so considerate. When she saw my old man fall ill, she immediately put her studies aside..."
Ling Yuchen, who had been forgotten, quietly walked over and found a corner to sit down.
Xia Wantang, greatly praised, felt quite embarrassed, her face flushing repeatedly. She simply maintained a smile, occasionally responding.
A moment later, a servant from the Ling family entered and said, "Old Madam, it's almost time, we should attend the banquet."
Xia Wantang breathed a sigh of relief and walked out with the elders.
The guests took their seats, and the hall was now exceptionally quiet.
Ling Yuchen supported Elder Master Ling, while Xia Wantang supported Elder Madam Ling.
The four of them walked in slowly, drawing everyone's attention.
The seats of honor were empty, reserved for them.
In fact, most people's gazes were fixed on Xia Wantang.
Xia Wantang felt a little nervous but maintained a poised and elegant demeanor, a proper smile on her face as she entered the hall with them.
Then they were seated.
She sat beside Elder Madam Ling, indicating how highly she was regarded.
At the table, she saw two unfamiliar elderly individuals.
Through Elder Master Ling's greetings, she learned their identities.
"Brother Situ, why didn't you come to my courtyard to sit when you arrived?"
Elder Master Situ smiled faintly, "Someone is accompanying me, and besides, we see each other every day."
However, the old lady beside him raised an eyebrow and looked at Xia Wantang, saying, "This must be your granddaughter-in-law..."