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Chu Yi still went to Cheng Zhi's birthday banquet in the end. He had just gotten off work that day, went home, picked out a neatly pressed dark gray suit from his closet, didn't even tie a tie, and took a taxi directly to the Cheng family's old house.

Winter days are short and nights come early. The old house was brightly lit, and all sorts of luxury cars were parked in front of it. Chu Yi had just gotten out of the taxi and stepped into the warm and cozy hall, still feeling the chill, when she ran into Cheng Yunshu.

Cheng Yunshu's eyes lit up, and she gracefully stepped forward, lifting her skirt, and affectionately took his arm: "Second Brother!"

Chu Yi's aloof expression softened slightly, and she nodded gently: "Why are you only arriving now?"

Cheng Yunshu smiled shyly and winked playfully, "Oh dear, girls always need time to style their hair before going out, unlike you men who have it so easy." As she spoke, she naturally took Chu Yi's arm and walked inside, quietly sharing some recent interesting things with him.

Inside the banquet hall, glasses clinked and elegantly dressed people mingled. Surrounded by the crowd, Cheng Zhi was talking to someone while holding a wine glass when his gaze inadvertently swept towards the entrance, just in time to see Chu Yi and Cheng Yunshu walking in side-by-side, chatting and laughing. His smile froze almost imperceptibly for a moment, and a hint of displeasure flashed in his eyes.

But in front of outsiders, he maintained the demeanor and composure befitting a family head, and quickly returned to normal. After exchanging a few more pleasantries with the people in front of him, he found an excuse to leave the crowd and walked straight toward Chu Yi and the others.

Cheng Zhi walked closer, turned his gaze to Chu Yi, and his tone became a bit somber. Although he lowered his voice, his dissatisfaction was still clearly discernible.

"No sense of time? Why are you only arriving now?"

Chu Yi was already used to his attitude.

His face remained expressionless, maintaining that polite, slightly aloof smile. He calmly met Cheng Zhi's gaze but did not answer his question, treating it as if it were just passing by.

This unyielding, submissive attitude, coupled with the lack of any real response, infuriated Cheng Zhi. However, he couldn't lash out in front of everyone, and his expression grew even uglier. He could only stand aside and continue his lecture on "rules" and "family honor" to Chu Yi in a low voice.

Chu Yi's eyes were vacant, his gaze fixed on the crystal chandelier not far away, ignoring the admonitions in his ears.

Just as Cheng Zhi was speaking enthusiastically, Chu Ruoyin walked over gracefully, arm in arm with Xie Huaiming.

Chu Ruoyin wore a perfectly gentle smile and acted intimately with Xie Huaiming, appearing as a kind and benevolent elder looking up to a younger generation.

Chu Yi watched this scene, raised his hand and took a small sip of the champagne in his hand. The cold, sour liquid slid down his throat, but he remained silent.

"Teacher Chu, it's been a long time." Xie Huaiming took the initiative to greet her, his tone gentle and polite, his gaze fixed on Chu Yi with a hint of inquiry.

Chu Yi then turned her gaze to him, raised the champagne glass in her hand, nodded in acknowledgment, and gave an impeccable social smile, but remained sparing with words, which was her way of saying hello.

Chu Ruoyin noticed Chu Yi's coldness, but her smile remained unchanged. "Xiao Yi, you should have a good chat with President Xie tonight. He's young and promising; you should learn from him."

The implication of matchmaking in those words was clear to almost everyone present.

Chu Yi remained silent, neither agreeing nor disagreeing, but simply lowering her eyelashes and watching the golden liquid swirling in her glass.

This silent resistance made Chu Ruoyin's smile falter, and a hint of anger flashed in her eyes.

She gave Cheng Yunshu, who seemed a little flustered, a wink.

Cheng Yunshu glanced at Chu Yi, then at the displeased elder, and could only give Chu Yi an apologetic look before whispering, "Second Brother, I'll go over there for a bit." She then released Chu Yi's hand and turned to leave.

Suddenly, only Chu Yi, Cheng Zhi, Chu Ruoyin, and Xie Huaiming remained in the small corner, and the atmosphere became even more subtle and tense. Cheng Zhi and Chu Ruoyin exchanged a glance, clearly intending to leave the space to Chu Yi and Xie Huaiming.

Chu Yi seemed oblivious, or rather, completely unconcerned. He simply turned slightly to the side, holding a champagne glass between his fingers, his fingertips tapping lightly against the glass unconsciously, revealing a hint of barely perceptible impatience.

After Cheng Yunshu left, this small circle fell into an eerie silence.

Chu Yi always presents a calm and restrained image in public, maintaining basic politeness and demeanor even when she is inwardly displeased.

He couldn't be very intimate with others, nor did he bother to deliberately create distance. All his emotions were contained behind his calm eyes, with clear boundaries.

The champagne bubbles rise and burst in the glass, like the silent clash of thoughts at this moment.

Xie Huaiming seemed unsurprised by Chu Yi's silence. He swirled the wine in his glass, his gaze falling on Chu Yi's expressionless profile. His tone remained gentle, yet carried a subtle hint of probing, breaking the silence:

"Teacher Chu," he paused, lowered his voice, and smiled knowingly, "it seems your mother's intentions have never changed."

These words precisely pointed to the topic that both sides were well aware of—marriage.

Upon hearing this, Chu Yi slowly turned her head and looked directly at Xie Huaiming.

The thin, social smile on his face vanished instantly, like mist blown away by a cold wind, revealing his clear and resolute nature beneath.

Chu Yi's tone was neither evasive nor roundabout.

"President Xie," Chu Yi began, her tone even more detached than before, "my meaning remains unchanged."

This statement acts as a clear dividing line, unequivocally defining his stance.

He had no interest in participating in this matchmaking process, which was led by elders and based on self-interest, regardless of whether the other party was Xie Huaiming or anyone else.

Upon hearing this, Xie Huaiming was not angry at all. Instead, he chuckled softly, a hint of contempt in his laughter. He elegantly raised his champagne glass and lightly tapped it against Chu Yi's glass, producing a crisp "ting" sound.

He leaned forward slightly, lowering his voice to make sure only the two of them could hear him, like a condescending "reminder": "Professor Chu, I admire your... persistence."

Xie Huaiming paused, his gaze sharpening as he looked at Chu Yi. "But are you sure Zhou Ai really can't live without you? Is he really capable of protecting you?"

This statement was like a poisoned dagger, precisely piercing the weakest point in the relationship between Chu Yi and Zhou Ai that was most likely to be questioned by outsiders—the class divide and the disparity in power.

Chu Yi's fingers tightened slightly around the wine glass, the cold glass sending a chill through him, but the expression in his eyes remained unchanged, without even a ripple.

He looked at Xie Huaiming quietly, his gaze as calm as a deep pool, making Xie Huaiming's deliberately created sense of oppression seem somewhat ridiculous.

Chu Yi did not immediately refute, but only slightly tugged at the corner of her mouth.

Just as Chu Yi was about to speak, a voice with a lazy smile sounded from behind.

"Oh? As for whether you can protect her or not, Mr. Xie, why don't you try it yourself?"

That sound...

Chu Yi suddenly turned around.

Zhou Ai arrived at some unknown time. He had obviously just come from some event, wearing a well-tailored black velvet suit, without a tie, and with the top two buttons of his shirt casually undone, revealing his beautiful collarbone.

He also held a glass of wine in his hand, his slender fingers casually twirling the stem of the glass. Under the light, his impeccable face wore a half-smile, his peach blossom eyes slightly narrowed, his gaze precisely fixed on Xie Huaiming. Seemingly casual, yet carrying an undeniable sense of pressure.

He had clearly heard everything Xie Huaiming had just said.

Zhou Ai strode over unhurriedly and stood naturally next to Chu Yi, her arm seemingly unintentionally resting on the back of the chair behind Chu Yi, forming a semi-embracing posture full of possessiveness and protection.

He was slightly taller than Xie Huaiming, and at this moment he looked down at the other party with his eyes slightly lowered, exuding a powerful aura.

"When has my darling ever needed someone else to protect him?" Zhou Ai chuckled, her tone laced with arrogance yet also matter-of-fact. "His choice of me is my honor. As for the rest..."

He paused, his gaze sweeping over Cheng Zhi's increasingly unpleasant expression before finally settling on Xie Huaiming's face. His smile deepened, but his eyes remained devoid of warmth.

"Bring it on. I, Zhou Ai, am always ready to oblige."

He spoke these words casually, yet they carried a ruthless and unbridled confidence, as if the Xie and Cheng families were nothing more than that in his eyes.

This attitude stood in stark contrast to Xie Huaiming's aloof and calculating threats, clearly demonstrating the difference in their strengths.

Before Zhou Ai's resounding declaration had even faded, a noticeable commotion suddenly arose at the entrance of the banquet hall. The crowd parted like a receding tide, retreating to both sides, accompanied by low gasps and whispers.

The attention that was originally focused on the small confrontation between Chu Yi, Zhou Ai, and Xie Huaiming was instantly drawn to them.

Cheng Zhi's expression changed drastically. Ignoring the infuriating scene before him, he quickly composed himself and, accompanied by several important guests, hurried toward the entrance, a smile unprecedented in his life, even bordering on obsequious.

The crowd parted automatically to make way, and a sprightly old man in a dark Chinese-style suit walked slowly, surrounded by several people.

He was tall and, though old, his back was straight and his face was dignified. His eyebrows bore a striking resemblance to Zhou Ai, only he was more composed and reserved, exuding an aura of authority without anger, and radiating the powerful presence of someone who had long held a high position.

This old man was none other than Zhou Jing'an, the pillar of the Zhou family and Zhou Ai's grandfather.

Zhou Jing'an's gaze swept steadily across the entire room, finally landing precisely on Zhou Ai and Chu Yi in the corner, past Cheng Zhi who came forward with a big smile.

When his gaze met Chu Yi's, he didn't scrutinize or criticize her at all; instead, he nodded politely.

A genuine sense of surprise flashed through Chu Yi's mind. He hadn't expected to meet Zhou Ai's grandfather in this setting, in this manner, and even less had he expected such an attitude.

For a moment, everyone's gaze shifted back and forth between Zhou Ai, Chu Yi, and Zhou Jing'an, filled with shock, curiosity, and disbelief.

The whispers grew louder.

"Mr. Zhou, oh my, it's such an honor to have you here! Why didn't you tell me beforehand? I could have personally greeted you at the door!" Cheng Zhi's voice was filled with exaggerated enthusiasm as he almost bowed to toast Zhou Jing'an.

Zhou Jing'an simply accepted the wine glass from the waiter, symbolically touched his lips to it, and said nothing more.

Someone nearby cautiously inquired about Mr. Zhou's purpose in coming.

Zhou Jing'an put down his wine glass and looked back at Chu Yi and Zhou Ai. "To accompany my grandson," he paused, then pointed to where Zhou Ai and Chu Yi were, his tone frank and even a little proud, "to pick up his lover."

The words "lover" exploded in the banquet hall like a thunderclap from a clear sky.

Cheng Zhi's smile froze instantly, turning extremely ugly, his face alternating between pale and flushed.

He originally thought that Zhou Ai and Chu Yi were just playing around and that it wouldn't be a proper affair. Little did he expect that Zhou Ai would not only come in person, but also bring out the reclusive old man of the Zhou family. Right here on the Cheng family's home turf, he used the most direct and irrefutable method to declare Chu Yi's identity and status.

The social standing of the Zhou and Cheng families...

In Beijing's social circles, who doesn't know about the Zhou family's background?

That was the family background and wealth accumulated since the Song Dynasty. Generations of them had held important government positions, forming a deep and intertwined network. By the time of Zhou Ai's father's generation, his father and uncle still held pivotal positions in the capital.

The Zhou family was a truly distinguished and powerful family, valuing both nobility and influence.

Although the Cheng family is also a wealthy family, compared to the Zhou family, there is more than just a huge gap between them.

Normally, if the Cheng family wanted to send an invitation to the Zhou family, they would probably have to go through three rounds of detours, and it might not even reach the Zhou family's butler, let alone get Zhou Jing'an himself to attend the banquet.

But now, Zhou Jing'an has not only come, but he has come for Chu Yi.

This was tantamount to slapping Cheng Zhi and Chu Ruoyin hard in public, and completely crushing all their previous schemes to force Chu Yi to submit by using family pressure and Xie Huaiming into dust.

Xie Huaiming stood to the side, his face already pale, and he could barely hold onto the wine glass in his hand.

Faced with real power, his previous doubts and threats about whether he could protect the person seemed so ridiculous and vulnerable.

Zhou Ai turned her head to look at Chu Yi, who was still somewhat stunned, and gave him a smug smile. She squeezed his hand and whispered, "See? I told you, no one can bully you."

Chu Yi never expected that Zhou Ai would not only "bring" his grandfather from the banquet to be a savior, but also take Zhou Jing'an back to the apartment where the two of them lived afterwards.

Chu Yi's usual composed and calm demeanor seemed somewhat inadequate in front of Zhou, the pillar of the Zhou family.

He almost instinctively straightened his back, and with slightly stiff movements, went to the kitchen to pour a glass of warm water. He held it with both hands and respectfully placed it on the coffee table in front of Zhou Jing'an, his voice softer than usual: "Grandpa, please have some water."

After doing all this, he stood quietly to the side, his hands neatly folded in front of him, like a top student waiting for a teacher's reprimand, not even daring to sit down.

The aura of Zhou Jing'an, honed by the passage of time and possessing an imposing presence, was so strong that it involuntarily inspired awe in him.

In stark contrast to him was Zhou Ai.

The culprit seemed completely oblivious, sprawled casually on the sofa next to him, pulled out a bright red apple from somewhere, and was happily crunching it down. One long leg was casually crossed over the other, and the toes were swinging idly, giving off a nonchalant and completely relaxed vibe as if he had returned to his own territory.

Seeing his expression and comparing it to his own nervousness, Chu Yi felt a surge of anger, yet also worried that he might be too disrespectful in front of his elders. He quietly moved closer and, taking advantage of Zhou Jing'an's distraction as he surveyed the living room, reached out and lightly pinched Zhou Ai's lean waist with a hint of warning.

"hiss--"

Zhou Ai took an exaggerated breath, turned her head, her peach blossom eyes full of playful laughter, and said in a voice that was neither too loud nor too soft, just loud enough for everyone in the room to hear: "Honey, why are you pinching me?"

Chu Yi: "..."

Zhou Jing'an seemed oblivious to the couple's subtle movements behind him. He stood up and walked slowly and steadily through the not-so-large living room, his gaze sweeping calmly over the surroundings.

The living room was decorated warmly, bearing the marks of the two people living together.

The most eye-catching feature is a large bookcase against the wall, which is not a decoration but is filled with densely packed books, most of which are heavy medical books with complicated English and Latin text printed on their spines.

Above the bookshelf, numerous trophies and certificates are arranged in a staggered manner, ranging from trophies from the Mathematical Olympiad in his childhood to various honorary certificates and medals for outstanding graduates from medical university... silently telling the story of Chu Yi's brilliant resume as "someone else's child" from childhood to adulthood.

Zhou Jing'an's gaze lingered on the awards for a moment, his eyes full of admiration. He turned around and broke the silence with a gentle voice: "Xiao Yi... is she studying medicine?"

Chu Yi immediately composed himself and respectfully replied, "Yes, Grandpa."

No sooner had he finished speaking than the conspicuous boy next to him, who was engrossed in munching on an apple, immediately chimed in, his tone brimming with undisguised pride: "Of course! Grandpa, our Xiaoyi is a top student who completed her bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees! Isn't that amazing!"

He was so smug, as if he himself had achieved all of this.

Chu Yi maintained a polite smile, but moved closer again without making a sound. Her fingertips precisely found the same spot on Zhou Ai's side and "gently" pinched it again.

"Ugh!" Zhou Ai groaned this time, biting into her apple, and looked at Chu Yi with a wronged expression, her eyes seeming to say: I didn't say anything wrong!

Zhou Jing'an took in the subtle interaction between the two young people. He sat back down on the sofa, picked up his glass of water, took a sip, and said in a more gentle tone than before, "Very good. Doctors save lives; it's a noble profession. Much better than some people."

The "certain people" who were mentioned touched their noses sullenly and continued to munch on their apples, not daring to interrupt again.

Chu Yi's tense nerves relaxed slightly because of Zhou Jing'an's teasing and approving words.

Zhou Jing'an put down his water glass, placed his hands on his knees, and looked solemnly at Chu Yi. His eyes no longer held only the kindness of an elder, but also a heavy sense of entrustment.

"Xiao Yi," he began, his voice steady and clear, every word earnest, "I'm here today not only to support you, but more importantly, to tell you personally—I want to formally hand Zhou Ai over to you."

The weight of these words made Chu Yi, who was standing to the side, hold her breath. Even Zhou Ai, who was eating an apple next to her, stopped what she was doing, sat up slightly, and looked at her grandfather.

Zhou Jing'an continued, his tone carrying a hint of barely perceptible warmth: "Xiao'ai is the youngest child in our family. She's been spoiled since she was little, and she's used to being mischievous and unruly, which may have caused you a lot of trouble."

His gaze swept over Zhou Ai, who was momentarily defiant and about to retort, but under his gaze, the latter swallowed her words back.

"However, it is undeniable that this child is serious and responsible at heart. Once he sets his mind on something or someone, he will go all the way and never look back."

"He may have a thousand flaws, but his heart is sincere."

Zhou Jing'an's gaze returned to Chu Yi's face, filled with undisguised admiration: "Xiao Yi, you are ambitious, outstanding, capable, and have a calm personality. It's a blessing for him and for our Zhou family that you've chosen to be with Zhou Ai."

At this point, Zhou Jing'an's voice became even gentler and stronger: "In my eyes, there has never been any regard for social status. It is a rare fate that two people can come together. As an elder, I am very happy to see your sincerity towards each other, and I sincerely wish you all the best."

These words were simple and sincere, without a trace of perfunctory politeness; they were genuine heartfelt recognition and blessings.

It was like a warm current, instantly dispelling the last trace of tension and unease in Chu Yi's heart.

Chu Yi raised her head, her gaze clear and firm, and nodded solemnly to Zhou Jing'an: "Grandpa, thank you. Thank you for your understanding and blessings."

He paused, glanced sideways at Zhou Ai beside him, whose eyes were sparkling with emotion at her grandfather's praise, and a gentle smile unconsciously spread across his lips, his voice softening as well:

"Zhou Ai... he really is a very good person. You may not know this, but he takes care of almost all the housework in this family. He is meticulous and takes great care of me. Moreover, he is equally ambitious and hardworking in his own professional field. He has paid a lot to get to where he is today and has so many people who like him. It has not been easy for him."

Chu Yi didn't make any grand vows; he simply used the most down-to-earth words to describe Zhou Ai's goodness in daily life, and to describe the Zhou Ai he saw behind the dazzling stage, who was equally earnest and hardworking.

As Zhou Ai listened to Chu Yi's words and looked at his serious profile as he "defended" himself, her heart melted. She couldn't help but reach out and quietly grasp Chu Yi's slightly cool fingers, holding them tightly in her palm.

Looking at the scene before him, at the natural warmth and tacit understanding between the two young people, Zhou Jing'an finally showed a relaxed and gratified smile on his stern face. He nodded, and the last bit of concern in his heart seemed to quietly settle down.

"Okay, okay." He said "okay" twice. "Seeing you all like this, I'm relieved."