"What's there to boast about? Let me tell you, those sinister, eerie things are most inauspicious. When your brother wanted to marry her, I was opposed from the start. She lacks the gentle refinement and cultivated grace of a true lady—simply unworthy of your brother."
Long Fengxi could no longer hold back. "Enough, Mom. You can say whatever you want in front of me, but if my sister-in-law hears this, it'll only stir up family strife. I think she's quite good. What matters is whether my brother is satisfied—none of your business, alright?"
"Your grandmother's seventieth birthday is approaching; I've already invited He Meiwei to attend."
Long Fengxi yawned. "Mom, why invite my brother's ex to grandma's birthday? I think you should keep your distance from her. Anything that might disrupt our family's harmony, you'd better steer clear of."
"Why would I want to do anything to undermine your sister-in-law's standing?"
"..."
The day of Madam Long's birthday banquet dawned bright and clear, with radiant sunshine.
Gu Lili had prepared her gift and attire days in advance.
The banquet commenced at dusk.
Long Yubei and Gu Lili arrived punctually, neither early nor late.
Upon entering the Long residence, dazzling lights illuminated the hall, fountains sparkled with vibrant colors—truly breathtaking.
Gu Lili wore a cherry-red cocktail dress that revealed her porcelain legs, her feet adorned in crystal-studded high heels.
Her hair was fashioned in an elegant socialite braid, and her makeup was exquisitely refined, radiating delicate charm.
Her steps were measured and graceful, exuding poise and dignity.
Her left arm linked through Long Yubei's, her right hand carrying an exquisite designer clutch.
Guests attending the celebration greeted the couple warmly, and Gu Lili returned each smile with equal warmth.
Upon seeing Madam Long, she released Long Yubei's arm and quickened her steps, smiling brightly, "Grandmother, may you enjoy longevity as enduring as the southern mountains and blessings as vast as the eastern seas. I have already placed your gift in your room."
Madam Long patted her hand affectionately. "How thoughtful. But there is only one gift this grandmother desires—my great-grandchildren. Lili, you and Beibei must strive for that."
Laughter rippled through the gathering. Gu Lili smiled and replied, "We'll do our best, soon, very soon."
After some pleasant conversation, the banquet officially began.
Gu Lili and Long Yubei remained together for a while, but shortly after, Long Yubei was called away by Shen Congmo and Liang He to drink.
Wearing high heels, Gu Lili sought a quiet corner to sit.
As her gaze casually swept the room, it abruptly fixed upon a pale figure across the hall.
He Meiwei.
She was chatting amiably beside her mother-in-law, her smile sweet yet, to Gu Lili, utterly insincere.
Gu Lili understood perfectly what He Meiwei intended.
She could hardly believe her mother-in-law would knowingly invite her son's ex to a family birthday celebration.
Long's mother dared to act boldly on the first day of the month—so she could certainly do so on the fifteenth!
Gu Lili's gaze shifted toward the ephemeral shadow nearby as she began to walk toward her.
...
By the time the guests dispersed, it was well past nine-thirty.
Only the closest family remained in the living room—unexpectedly, He Meiwei lingered as well, which deeply unsettled Gu Lili.
Long Yubei, having drunk too much thanks to Liang He, was being supported into the guest room by Tang Qingli for rest.
"Miss He, everyone's gone. Why are you still here so late, an outsider lingering?" Long Fengxi could not help but speak out.