Chapter 22: Grandpa’s Birthday

The two cars, traveling together, slowly stopped at the entrance of the old mansion, where bodyguards in black suits opened the car doors for them.

Zhu Jia got out first, continuously admiring the large mansion.

The house seemed a bit aged but was very well maintained. The main building was magnificently designed, with five stories, and there was a three-story annex nearby, likely used for servants’ quarters.

The garden outside the mansion had neatly grown lawns, beautifully trimmed plants, and a round fountain pool. The whole garden was exquisitely designed, with a harmonious arrangement of elements.

Zhu Jia, in high heels, linked arms with Mo Yichen, glanced around, and softly whispered to him, “This place is beautiful. I really want to take a tour.”

Mo Yichen glanced at Zhu Jia. She looked sincere, and her tone was filled with genuine admiration, without a hint of flattery or envy.

Being able to express praise so openly was a reflection of a person’s pure and strong inner self.

“By the way, what birthday gift did you prepare for Dad?” Zhu Jia suddenly remembered.

“It’s a painting by a renowned artist,” Mo Yichen replied.

Zhu Jia nodded. This gift was indeed quite appropriate; it reflected her identity as a daughter-in-law without being too extravagant.

It even subtly indicated that Mo Ronghua was not just a businessman drenched in the scent of money, but also a cultured and sentimental old patriarch of a wealthy family.

Aunt Liu, pushing Xiao Wen’s stroller, slowly followed behind. Zhu Jia noticed Xiao Wen’s eyes shining with excitement.

It might be because ever since Xiao Wen fell and injured his head, Zhu Jia hadn’t taken him out to play. Today, she was finally changing the environment, and Xiao Wen was in a particularly good mood.

“Let’s go greet Dad first,” Zhu Jia suggested. Out of politeness and respect, the first thing they had to do when arriving at the old mansion was to take Xiao Wen to see Mo Ronghua.

Mo Yichen led Zhu Jia and Xiao Wen into the mansion. Everything around them was luxurious and exquisite—shiny marble floors, soft and ornate carpets, and intricately designed crystal chandeliers. It looked like something out of an aristocratic estate from a British drama Zhu Jia had once seen.

Mo Yichen led them to the fifth floor via the elevator. As soon as they stepped out, Zhu Jia heard Mo Ronghua’s infectious laughter. Zhu Jia frowned, hoping he wasn’t drinking or smoking at this moment.

Mo Ronghua was sitting on a deep red leather sofa, chatting with Mo San Shu (Uncle Mo). As he picked up a cigarette, he saw Mo Yichen and the others approaching.

Mo Ronghua, in a good mood, put down the unlit cigarette. “Isn’t this my chubby grandson? Come, let me have a look.”

Zhu Jia pushed Xiao Wen forward to Mo Ronghua and obediently said, “Dad.”

“Lin Lin, you’re here too?” Mo Ronghua finally glanced at Zhu Jia, then shifted his gaze to Xiao Wen.

Lin Lin…? What the heck?

Uncle Mo next to them couldn’t stop laughing. “Big Brother, you made a mistake! This is Jia Jia, your daughter-in-law. Lin Lin is the second brother’s wife.”

Zhu Jia maintained a polite fake smile, while her mind was racing with countless expletives. Was this old man really blind or just looking down on the daughter-in-law?

Zhu Jia recalled from the original text that the female lead felt deeply inferior due to the significant difference in status between her and Mo Yichen. To marry him successfully, she practically accompanied her future in-laws every day, trying her best to please them.

In the end, she won their approval with her gentle, filial virtue and successfully married Mo Yichen.

Zhu Jia: …

Zhu Jia now deeply doubted the original text. Was the female lead sure that Mo Ronghua could actually remember her face and name?

After hearing Uncle Mo’s words, Mo Ronghua looked slightly embarrassed. He glanced at his son, noticing that Mo Yichen showed no reaction.

He smiled at Zhu Jia and said, “Ah, it’s all my fault. I’m getting old, my memory’s not as good. Jia Jia, right? You and Lin Lin look alike, both with big eyes and small faces. I must have mixed you up.”

Mo Ronghua’s attention shifted back to Xiao Wen. He placed his finger on Xiao Wen’s palm, and Xiao Wen tightly grasped it.

“This little one’s grip is really strong! Not bad!” Mo Ronghua laughed, his wrinkles deepening. He finally looked up and seriously said to Zhu Jia, “This child is clever and strong. Jia Jia, while you’re young, you should have a few more. After you do, I’ll reward you generously!”

Zhu Jia continued to smile politely, quietly watching the drama unfold in her mind. It was true what the news said: in wealthy families, having children could earn you rewards like houses and money!

“Dad, we’ll head downstairs now,” Mo Yichen stood up impatiently and interrupted Mo Ronghua’s long-winded speech.

Mo Ronghua, seeing the displeasure on his son’s face, immediately said, “Alright, you go ahead. Go downstairs and hang out with the younger folks.”

Watching the family of three leave, Mo Ronghua crossed his legs and finally lit his cigarette.

It’s said that young people are formidable. Even though he had been the heir to the family since childhood, his abilities were mediocre, and sometimes he couldn’t even command the respect of the company’s elders.

Luckily, he had a capable son. During his most troubled days, his son helped him deal with the company’s people, managing the family business smoothly and making the group flourish.

He had voluntarily retired. With his son to rely on, Mo Ronghua was essentially just an idle playboy who enjoyed life. But, due to his position as the family heir, he had to struggle to maintain that position for many years.

Mo Ronghua squinted, exhaling a puff of smoke. This retirement life wasn’t bad; he quite liked it.

Sitting next to him, Uncle Mo silently watched Mo Yichen leave, his tall and strong figure casting a long shadow. The gold-rimmed glasses reflected the light from the crystal chandelier, and no one noticed the usually refined and gentle eyes darkening with an ominous shadow…

.

Mo Yichen and Zhu Jia took Xiao Wen back to the first floor. Zhu Jia hadn’t expected that, when she entered through the front gate, she had seen the front garden. The mansion also had a large back garden, and tonight’s birthday banquet would be held in the open-air backyard.

Zhu Jia watched the waiters in uniforms going in and out, preparing for the evening’s dinner.

Don’t say it—though Mo Ronghua is already over fifty, he is quite fashionable and enjoys life. The backyard had already been beautifully decorated. The long rectangular dining table, covered with a white tablecloth, was adorned with flowers and candle holders.

Around the table, several round tables were filled with various afternoon tea snacks, drinks, and champagne, available for guests to help themselves.

Walking further ahead was a large, curved swimming pool, with a few lounge chairs set up around it. Several children, around seven or eight years old, were playing nearby, while the servants watched over them.

The sun was setting, and although it wasn’t yet dinner time, the backyard had already gathered quite a few young people, mostly Mo family juniors or children of family friends.

They were chatting happily, eating snacks, drinking, and having lively conversations, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

As soon as Mo Yichen appeared, the entire scene became quieter. The relaxed atmosphere was suddenly interrupted, and it became somewhat tense and awkward.

Zhu Jia: … Are they being excluded?

But thinking about it, it made sense. Mo Yichen, as the most authoritative and highest-ranking member of the family, had parents in the crowd who were either dependent on him or working under him.

Moreover, he exuded an aura that pushed people away, making it difficult for anyone to approach.

However, someone did approach, which surprised Zhu Jia.

“Yichen, you’re here.” A man with peach blossom eyes and a smiling mouth walked over. He patted Mo Yichen on the shoulder and then smiled faintly at Zhu Jia. “Is this your wife? First time meeting, I’m Fang Bai Ran.”

He extended his hand in a gentlemanly manner, and Zhu Jia shook it briefly.

So it’s Fang Bai Ran! According to the original text, Fang Bai Ran was the second son of the Fang family, who was a close childhood friend of Mo Yichen.

The original text didn’t describe him much, but it mentioned that although he appeared to be a reckless playboy, he eventually defeated his older brother and rose to power, becoming the head of Fang Group. However, this victory was also partly due to Mo Yichen’s involvement.

“When did you come back?” Mo Yichen took a sip of champagne.

“Just landed this morning and came right here to see my godson.” Fang Bai Ran looked down at Xiao Wen, who was turning his eyes in the stroller, and squatted down.

“Little one, when you grow up, don’t be like your father with that stern face all the time. Be more like Uncle Fang and smile more, okay?” He said, gently pinching Xiao Wen’s cheek.

“Don’t touch him randomly.” Mo Yichen shot him a look of disdain.

“Baby, look, your dad is so fierce. Uncle just wanted to play with you, but he won’t let me,” Fang Bai Ran exaggeratedly made a sad face at Xiao Wen.

Zhu Jia couldn’t help but smile with her eyes squinted, covering her mouth.

Mo Yichen glanced at her subtly. “Ah Ran, let’s go talk inside.”

“Alright, Uncle Fang will talk business with your dad. I’ll come find you later to play,” Fang Bai Ran said, pinching Xiao Wen’s chubby hand before standing up.

“You two go ahead, I’ll take Xiao Wen for a walk here,” Zhu Jia said wisely, as it was obvious they had something important to discuss.

Mo Yichen, upon hearing this, took a step forward but then turned around, looking at Zhu Jia with a slightly awkward expression. “If you need anything, have someone find me. I’ll be on the second floor.”

Fang Bai Ran gave Mo Yichen a meaningful glance.

Zhu Jia nodded, smiling and waving at them.

Zhu Jia pushed Xiao Wen toward the afternoon tea area. There were all sorts of beautifully decorated small cakes, freshly baked bread, and a variety of fruits arranged on elegant three-tier trays.

Zhu Jia’s eyes lit up as she picked up a uniquely shaped strawberry cake, just as she was about to take a bite.

“Big Sis! It’s so good to see you again!” A sweet yet slightly childish voice called out. Zhu Jia smiled and turned around, and sure enough, she saw a beautiful girl around fifteen or sixteen years old, dressed in a pink tulle dress—Mo Yichen’s half-sister, Mo Qingqing.

“Qingqing, long time no see.” Zhu Jia gently patted Mo Qingqing’s head.

Mo Qingqing, as if encouraged, took a step forward and lightly hugged Zhu Jia. Then, whispering in her ear, she said, “Actually, I saw you earlier, but I didn’t dare approach because Big Brother was with you.”

Zhu Jia chuckled. Mo Qingqing was truly a cute girl.

Mo Qingqing looked at Xiao Wen in the stroller, pointed to a nearby lawn, and said, “Let’s take the baby over there to walk around. We can get some sunlight.”

Zhu Jia smiled and nodded.

“I’ll get some snacks to bring over.” Mo Qingqing took the strawberry cake from Zhu Jia’s hand, selected a few small treats from the snack trays, and grabbed two bottles of juice.

The sunlight on the lawn was perfect, with a gentle breeze, and Zhu Jia took Xiao Wen out of the stroller to play.

Mo Qingqing set the snacks and fruits on a wooden table, then kept adjusting the angle to take pictures of the food. Afterward, she secretly propped up her phone.

Zhu Jia noticed her little move. “Are you secretly taking pictures of me?”

“Big Sis, look, the pictures came out really well!” Mo Qingqing excitedly showed her phone to Zhu Jia. In the photos, there were golden rays of the setting sun, Zhu Jia’s beautiful side profile, Xiao Wen’s bright eyes, and the fresh green lawn as the background.

Zhu Jia smiled as she looked at the pictures. While the two of them were focused on sharing the photos, a soft voice came from above. “Qingqing, Big Sis.”

Zhu Jia and Mo Qingqing looked up to see a woman with a rosy complexion and a noticeable baby bump, probably about five or six months pregnant.

“Second Sis!” Mo Qingqing said in surprise. “Come sit down.”

The pregnant woman held onto the wooden table and sat down. She looked at Zhu Jia and gently said, “Big Sis, just call me Linlin.”

So, she was Mo Yichen’s second uncle’s wife, Linlin?

Looking at Linlin, who had no resemblance to her at all, Zhu Jia once again felt speechless at Mo Ronghua’s memory.