Butler Li took another look and noticed that the relaxed and languid demeanor of the young man was quite different from the decisive and commanding presence of the eldest son.

The relaxed and easy-going Mr. Gu was indeed a striking contrast to the decisive and powerful eldest son.

The understated black Bentley parked in the old residence’s parking lot. Chauffeur Lao Deng got out of the car and opened the door for Gu Chen. Gu Chen stepped out, adjusted his cufflinks, and composed himself.

Butler Li was momentarily stunned by the commanding presence, the perfect proportions, and the similarly styled suit. It truly resembled the eldest son’s appearance!

At this time, the courtyard of the old residence was filled with the aroma of fine clothing and the clinking of glasses. The guests outside cast curious glances at Gu Chen, but he paid them no mind and walked straight inside.

Butler Li observed Gu Chen’s familiar mannerisms with a sense of déjà vu, as if his very DNA was responding. He automatically fell into his role, respectfully trailing one step behind and offering a slight guide: “You will need to take the main table inside and dine with the old master.”

Lao Deng also fell back a step, positioning himself on either side of Butler Li as they followed behind.

A lady holding a highball glass turned around from a distance, eyeing the scene with some curiosity: “Is that… Mr. Li Tingqin?”

As Gu Chen was heading towards the main dining hall, a young man suddenly ran up from behind, excitedly exclaiming, “Bro, you’re back?”

Gu Chen glanced back lightly. The young man immediately realized his mistake and awkwardly said, “Ahem… I’m sorry, sir. I mistook you for someone else. I saw Butler Li and Uncle Deng following you and assumed…”

The young man was curious about who this important figure was. With Butler Li and Uncle Deng following respectfully, it was no wonder he mistook him for someone else based on just his back.

“Third Young Master, it’s been a while since we last saw you.” Butler Li quickly stepped forward to explain and introduce, “You might not have been aware while you were abroad. This is the second young master of the Gu family, Mr. Gu Chen, who has recently become the partner of the eldest son.”

The Third Young Master of the Li family immediately expressed his surprise: “Oh, so you’re the brother-in-law! I was busy with graduation abroad and couldn’t attend your wedding with my big brother. I’ve seen your photos, but brother-in-law, you don’t look like your pictures at all. You’re ten times more handsome in person!”

Gu Chen nodded lightly, “Hello.”

The evening banquet was actually being held to welcome Li Jiashu, who had just returned from studying abroad.

While abroad, Li Jiashu had heard various rumors about his brother-in-law, Gu Chen. However, he wasn’t one to judge based solely on rumors. Now that they had met, he naturally put his arm around Gu Chen’s shoulder and said, “Come on, brother-in-law, let’s go in together.”

Li Jiashu’s feelings were somewhat mixed. He wouldn’t dare to put his arm around his big brother’s shoulder like that. Although Gu Chen’s demeanor resembled his eldest brother’s, Gu Chen’s position within both the Gu and Li families was not particularly high, which made him feel more comfortable acting this way.

Of course, Gu Chen was almost as tall as his eldest brother, making it a bit challenging to put his arm around him. After all, his big brother was nearly 1.9 meters tall, and Gu Chen appeared to be around 185 or 186 centimeters. Was that really appropriate?

Gu Chen glanced at Li Jiashu’s hand resting on his shoulder but said nothing.

“Third Young Master, when are we going out for a gathering?”

“Tree, you’re amazing for graduating early.”

“Third Young Master, now that you’re back in the country, you can really make things happen.”

Li Jiashu was quite popular among the young elites, and as he made his way through the venue, many people greeted him. However, no one paid attention to Gu Chen, who was casually draped with Li Jiashu’s arm. After all, the marriage between Li Tingqin and Gu Chen was kept low-profile, and among the younger generation, few were familiar with Gu Chen.

Li Jiashu took a glass of wine from a waiter and engaged in lively conversation, clinking glasses with everyone, adding to the festive atmosphere.

As they moved further in, the ambiance grew quieter and more serious. A waiter pushed open a large door leading into the main dining room. Unlike the Western-style buffet outside, the main dining area featured a traditional Chinese round table. The head of the Li family, the elderly patriarch, sat at the main seat, with the main branch of the Li family in the city gradually taking their places.

The lively and talkative Li Jiashu immediately fell silent and sat stiffly as soon as he entered, looking every bit the part of a well-behaved grandson.

With Li Tingqin and his parents absent, Gu Chen was seated at the lower left side of the patriarch, reflecting his status as the eldest grandson of the Li family. Gu Chen, however, seemed perfectly at ease and composed in his seat.

The patriarch, over eighty years old, looked vigorous and commanding, still holding the authority as the family’s undisputed leader.

Once everyone was seated, the patriarch began: “What are your plans now that you’re back, Jiashu? Are you planning to start your own company or work with a couple of the family’s smaller businesses?”

Li Jiashu responded without hesitation: “Grandpa, I’ve already planned my path while abroad. I intend to start my own venture. The initial plan is already in place, but since I’ve just returned, I need to understand the domestic situation and make some adjustments. Everything is in preparation…” He was clearly well-prepared and had a solid vision for his future.

The patriarch nodded, somewhat satisfied: “It’s good that you have the ambition to venture out on your own. Remember to have your plan reviewed by your uncles and aunts.”

Li Jiashu felt relieved, believing that his pre-prepared answer had served him well.

At the dinner table, everyone quickly showered praises on Li Jiashu, applauding his achievement of obtaining a master’s degree at 22, and even graduating early. They remarked how exceptional he was and suggested that the patriarch’s standards were perhaps too strict.

The patriarch then turned his attention to the young lady seated next to Li Jiashu, his tone slightly stern: “Jingwei, I heard you’re considering making a film debut soon?”

Li Tingqin had one younger sister and one younger brother; Li Jingwei was the second youngest. When the patriarch addressed her, she seemed as nervous as a student called on in class: “Uh… Grandpa, where did you hear that?”

She quickly changed the subject: “Actually… the film I directed has been submitted to a film festival in Country G. It should win a small award.”

The patriarch’s expression softened slightly: “It’s fine if you make a mark as a director, but Grandpa doesn’t want you to be like those actors, constantly in the limelight.”

Everyone again praised her: “Miss Jingwei is being modest. She’s immensely talented and has already won several awards!”

The scene resembled a family gathering during the New Year, where relatives continuously inquired about the academic and career achievements of the younger generation.

The patriarch meticulously went through each younger member, starting with the main branch and moving to the secondary branch…

Gu Chen rested his elbows on the table, fingers interlocked, listening with interest as they “showcased their achievements.” The young members of the Li family were indeed outstanding, many of whom had accomplished significant milestones by their twenties. They were all exceptionally driven.

The patriarch’s rigorous family management had instilled a sense of discipline in the younger generation, who had all received elite education. He expected the younger generation to have their own careers, and they had lived up to his expectations, either graduating from prestigious schools or already achieving notable success in their fields.

Seeing Gu Chen seated at the lower end of the table, the patriarch’s expression tightened. He remembered scolding Gu Chen previously for being idle at home. This time, considering the face of his eldest grandson, he moderated his tone but remained earnest: “Xiao Gu, I’ve heard that you’ve recently moved into one of Tingqin’s properties. What have you been up to?”

“Although you’ve married Tingqin, you’re still young and should have your own career.”

The patriarch knew about Gu Chen’s participation in an insignificant program, but he chose not to bring it up here. To him, it seemed like a trivial pursuit of young people, not a serious career.

The original Gu Chen had indeed wanted a career of his own, but before the marriage, he had spent almost all his time in school, estranged from both his father and mother. Without access to their resources, it was impossible for him to take up a significant role in the family business. Even if he were given a key position, his lack of elite education and training alongside his siblings made him unfit for such responsibilities.

So, even if he suspected that Du Ruiqing’s intentions were malicious, getting cast in this marriage variety show was, for him, quite a noteworthy “career” achievement.

As everyone’s eyes turned to Gu Chen, it became apparent that he was the same age as Jiashu. While Jiashu had already graduated from the University of London and was preparing to start his own business, Gu Chen had been idle since graduating from a second-tier university in China. Even after marrying Tingqin, he had continued to live a life of leisure. Compared to his father’s family and his mother’s relatives, who were all accomplished, he was seen as someone whose only asset was his appearance.

The patriarch’s eyes narrowed slightly at Gu Chen’s response. He was used to seeing the younger generation chase after fame and success, so Gu Chen’s calm and indifferent attitude was unusual. With a hint of amusement in his eyes, Gu Chen replied, “Thank you for your offer, Grandpa, but there’s no need. Tingqin’s allowances are more than sufficient for me.”

The other young members of the family exchanged glances, their expressions a mix of surprise and envy. A company worth billions was being casually offered to Gu Chen, who seemed uninterested in the opportunity. It was clear that the special treatment was due to his status as the eldest grandson’s spouse.

Seeing that Gu Chen was not eager to accept the position, the patriarch’s expression softened. He understood that Gu Chen’s reluctance was a sign of his personal principles and independence, even if it didn’t align with his own expectations. “Well,” the patriarch said with a sigh, “since you have your own plans, we won’t insist. But remember, if you ever need anything, don’t hesitate to let us know. We always want to see our family members succeed, even if it’s in their own way.”

Gu Chen nodded respectfully. “Thank you, Grandpa. I’ll keep that in mind.”

As the conversation moved on, the focus shifted back to the other family members, each of whom presented their own accomplishments and plans. Gu Chen remained a quiet observer, taking in the dynamics and the interactions, but not seeking to intervene or draw attention to himself.

The atmosphere gradually lightened as the meal continued, with lively discussions and the occasional laughter punctuating the evening. The dinner served as a reminder of the tight-knit yet competitive nature of the family, where every member had their own role to play and expectations to meet.

Throughout the evening, Gu Chen maintained his composure and grace, a quiet presence amidst the bustling and vibrant family gathering.

The younger generation was stunned by this. How could Gu Chen be so naive? How could a few hundred thousand a month in pocket money compare to a company like Hua’an?! It was like throwing away a watermelon just to pick up a sesame seed!

Even Li Jiashu lowered his voice and said, “Brother-in-law, this company is quite good. The pocket money my brother gives you is probably only a small fraction of what this company earns.”

Gu Chen smiled and replied, “Jiashu, you misunderstand your brother. He’s actually very generous.” Sorry, but your brother has been extremely generous—he gave me 6 million within a week, which is likely more than the profits of a small company.

Li Jia Shu: “……” Brother-in-law! You’re the one who doesn’t understand! My brother’s monthly pocket money surely can’t exceed five million, right?

Seeing Gu Chen’s sincere expression, Li Jiashu couldn’t speak ill of his brother and had to forcefully swallow his words.

Oh, brother-in-law is really naive. How could she be deceived by a few hundred thousand a month in pocket money?