Translator: Nyoi-Bo Studio Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio
Shu Pan saw many relatives and friends, all of whom she had met at the last family gathering. She nodded politely and exchanged greetings with each of them. Everyone praised her for her obedient demeanor.
However, there was one person who treated her indifferently, and that was Song Can, who had also attended the gathering. Initially, she had been reluctant to come because her son had grown up and no longer listened to her. She disagreed with the decision, but since the majority agreed, she had to come. Not attending would have brought disgrace to the family, as everyone knew about the strained relationship between her and her daughter-in-law. Moreover, if she didnât come, Shu Pan would become the true lady of the Gu family, and everyone would start favoring her. So, despite her reluctance, she came out of necessity.
However, her attendance didnât mean she would show Shu Pan a pleasant expression. She found fault in the way Shu Pan greeted the relatives, deeming her behavior lacking the grace of a refined lady.
âMom, youâre here. Take a seat inside. You must be tired,â Shu Pan approached her with a forced smile, although she actually wanted to turn and leave, not wanting to face her coldness.
But she didnât want to be rude in front of everyone.
âI wouldnât dare,â Song Can retorted coldly.
Feeling embarrassed, Shu Pan reminded herself that Song Can was her beloved manâs mother, so she held back her discomfort.
âMom, excuse me, I need to attend to other friends now. Have fun,â Shu Pan forced a smile.
Finally out of Song Canâs vicinity, Shu Pan felt relieved. She had felt suffocated during their conversation.
Thankfully, they didnât live together, or the situation would have been unbearable.
In the evening, everyone gathered on the beach for a barbecue. Dozens of people enjoyed the plentiful food and drinks provided by the hotel, creating a lively atmosphere of camaraderie among relatives and friends.
Gu Shaoting and He Ming arrived at the barbecue party just a few minutes after it started. Mr. Gu, who had been by the seaside for a few days, was dressed in casual nants and a white shirt. adorned bv the orange glow of the sunset. His profile was cool and his demeanor graceful, but what was rare was the hint of a smile playing on his lips, captivating everyoneâs gaze.
Gu Shaotingâs eyes immediately fell on Shu Pan amidst the rosy glow. She looked gentle and ethereal in the sunset. He approached her quietly and then gently wrapped his arms around her waist from behind.
Shu Pan was startled for a moment, then turned to see Gu Shaoting. âYouâve worked hard,â Shu Pan said, noticing a hint of fatigue in his eyes.
âIâm not tired. Iâm happy. Do you like it?â Gu Shaoting took the opportunity to hold Shu Panâs hand, gently bringing it to his lips and planting a soft kiss.
âYes, I do. Thank you. Itâs unforgettable,â Shu Pan replied, feeling shy with so many people around, and quickly pulled her hand away.
âBro, why did you just show up now? Your wife has been looking for you several times,â Gu Huanhuan teased Gu Shaoting, causing Shu Pan to blush even more.
At that moment, other relatives from the family approached, laughing heartily. âYouâve chosen a wonderful place. The weather is perfect. If we were getting married in Bin City, weâd have to wear thick clothes.â
âYeah, and thereâs so much seafood to enjoy. If it werenât for Shaotingâs wedding, we probably wouldnât have had the chance to come to such a beautiful place,â another relative chimed in.
âMy apologies for not greeting you properly. Please, help yourselves to more,â Gu Shaoting said with a faint smile.
âShaoting, your mom is here too. I greeted her earlier, but she seemed a bit upset. You should go check on her,â Shu Pan suddenly remembered and mentioned to him..