21

Qiao Lan's wedding is grand, packed with North City's elite.

It's more a networking event than a ceremony.

The process is quick—no bridesmaids.

After, Qiao Lan and Liang Tian split to mingle.

I'm seated next to Lin Shen.

He serves me a bowl of soup.

I don't know why he's at the family table.

Dad explains, "Lin Shen lost his parents young. I've sponsored him since elementary school. He's practically family."

True, but he doesn't treat the other sponsored kids this way.

Now, this "half-family" member has the Qiao elders beaming.

Grandma watches him serve me food, grinning. "Lin Shen's so caring. When are you bringing a girl home for me to meet?"

I eavesdrop as the topic shifts to me.

"Your sister's married. You're 26—not young. We don't need you to marry for business, like Qiao Lan chose her own husband, but I hope you find someone you love."

At the reception, some heiresses swarm Lin Shen for photos, fangirling.

I glance over, and someone clinks my glass.

It's Mo Xu, another of Dad's sponsored students, now a doctor.

He compliments Qiao Lan's wedding dress and says I look beautiful.

I feel a hot gaze on my back.

Lin Shen approaches, and I step away from Mo Xu.

"Shen."

They chat warmly, but Lin Shen cuts to the chase. "I need to talk to Qiao Lu."

Mo Xu leaves, a hint of disappointment in his eyes.

"What's up?" I ask.

"Want to take a break?"

I blink, confused.

"I'm going traveling. Come with me."

"Anyone else?"

"Just you and me."