[Morning, Time: - 8:00 AM]

In the luxury villa, a beautiful woman crossed her long legs and sattled on the sofa. She wore Stretch black pants, a somewhat lousy white blouse tucked into the pants, a gray tailored blazer draped over her shoulder, and a sharp 3-inch heel. She arrogantly picked up the file with her sharp, cold eyes and examined it carefully. A feeling of relief washed over her.

She speaks in an arrogant tone, “Finally, I have secured the AA group project. The total worth of the project is 500 million dollars. With this, my SU family will become the No. 1 family in Wujin City!”

As she talked to herself, a man who stood around 182 cm tall approached her. His long hair was tied in a bun at the back of his head, with a few strands falling over his eyes. He spoke in a gentle tone, "Um… Babe, breakfast is ready. You can come and eat!"

She looks at him with cold eyes, but beneath that icy exterior, there is still some warmth for him. She still chooses to reply in a slightly angry tone, “Why are you late today? Didn’t you realize I’m running late for the office?”

In a sad tone, “I am sorry babe please forgive me. I won’t do this again!”

She ignored his apologies, moved towards the dining table, and sat on the chair. “So what did you make for today's breakfast?”

He put a bowl of oatmeal in front of her, “According to your diet plan you provide, I made oatmeal for you and packed some salad for the office”.

She quietly eats her oatmeal while casually using her phone. A girl comes down the staircase and hugs her as she eats. “Good morning, big sister! Congratulations on securing such a big project with the AA group. You’re definitely on your way to becoming the next CEO of the Su group!”

While both sisters enjoy this moment, the men standing beside them speak warmly. "Congratulations, babe, on receiving the project with the AA group! You worked hard to achieve this project. But why didn't you tell me yesterday? I could have made something delicious for you, and we could celebrate together."

With a bitter smile, she said, “It was already midnight, and I didn’t want to bother you with this, but I should have informed you. I hope you understand and aren’t upset.”

The girl standing next to her sister speaks as if she is disgusted by the men in front of her.

"Wang Xiaotian, how can you blame my sister for not informing you about the project? Do you want to know why she didn't tell you yesterday? She was at the party and busy celebrating with Ji Yuan late at night, which is why she came home late. Are you feeling insecure now?"

She tries to stop her sister, but suddenly another woman enters the dining hall. She speaks with authority, saying, “What is going on here? Wang Xiaotian, are you bullying my daughters?”

Wang Xiaotian, try to calm down the old woman, “Mom it’s not what you think, it’s just a small misunderstanding!”

Su Lihua's tone shifted to one of nagging. “Oh! Do you think I’m deaf? I can hear how you criticize my sweet Su Moyan. She was just enjoying her victory last night and didn’t want to tell you because all you do is spoil her fun! Besides, she knows that sharing it with you only brings bad luck and nothing good!”

Wang Xiaotian speaks, “Mom please let me…”.

Before he completes his sentence Su Moyan speaks up, “Wang Xiaotian just shut up!! And mom please don’t fight in the early morning, it’s given me a headache”.

Wang Xiaotian, get closer to Su Muyan, “Do you want me to bring some medication for you?”

Su Muyan, after hearing his word put her head and spoke in guilt, “No you don’t need to bring the medication, I am fine!”

When Wang Xiaotian going to touch her shoulder to support her, Su Lihua slapped his hand, “Don’t dare to touch my daughter with your filthy hands”.

“I am sorry!” Wang Xiaotian back off.

Su Lihua looked at him with disdain and supported her daughter. “Are you okay, Yan'er? My poor baby, you must be so tired, but you need to stay spirited. Today is your grandparents' wedding anniversary, and they are hosting a banquet to celebrate. They specifically invited you because you secured such a big project for the Su family!”

Su Moyan smiled warmly and replied, “Of course, Mom! I will join the banquet. Just send me the hotel address where it’s being held, and I’ll be there!”

Su Lihua caressed her head, “It’s okay I will text you the address, yesterday you’re dad and brother already left for the banquet and your dad also want to discuss something with your grandpa, so don't worry about them!”

Su Moyan looked at Wang Xiaotian and said, “Here, take the credit card and buy some new clothes and gifts for today's banquet. Don't embarrass me tonight!” She handed the credit card to him, and Wang Xiaotian nodded.

Suddenly, Su Lihua's voice filled with concern, “Yan’er, why on earth are you handing him the credit card? What if he drains the account and disappears? You know how your grandparents feel about him; their disapproval could tarnish your reputation. Instead of him, why not take Ji Yuan with you? He’s a much better choice.” With that, she swiftly snatched the credit card from his hand.

Su Moyan’s voice carries a note of frustration as she asserts, “Mom, that's enough. I know him far better than you do—he would never betray our trust for money. If my grandparents disapprove, that's their issue to handle, not mine. And let's not forget, this is a family banquet, and Ji Yuan is still an outsider!”

She snatches the credit from her hand and gives it to the Wang Xiaotian again.

Su Lihua speaks with a gentle warmth, "What are you saying, Yan’er? Ji Yuan is not merely an outsider; he’s someone who has been part of your life since childhood. He was your first crush back in school. Have you forgotten all those precious moments you shared with him?"

In guilt and frustration, she raises her voice, “Fine, invite him!” With that, she swiftly retreats to her bedroom.

As she strides out of the dining hall, Su Lihua casts an incredulous glance at Wang Xiaotian and says, “Oh, I almost forgot to mention—your five esteemed masters will be joining us at the banquet. It’s hard to believe that you are their disciple, and yet, here you are, still utterly ineffective. Now look at Ji Yuan he is a hundred times better than you; after being accepted by the five masters he achieved those things you can never achieve in your whole life”.

Su Lihua and Su Yixin laughed at him as they left the dining hall.

Wang Xiaotian gazes at the credit card clutched delicately in his frail fingers, a hint of crimson staining his lips as he coughs weakly. “Let’s forget everything else,” he whispers hoarsely, “My body is crumbling, and I have only a day or two left to live. I want to spend my final moments with my daughter.”

He steps away from the dining hall and approaches the locked door of Su Muyan's room. With a gentle knock, he asks softly, “May I come in?”

A cold voice comes out from the room, “Yes, come in”

Wang Xiaotian swung open the door and stepped into the room, where he found Su Muyan bustling about, preparing herself and her two-year-old daughter for the evening's banquet. Concern etched on his face, he asked gently, “Are you alright? You left the dining hall in a bit of a huff.”

She stays silent

Wang Xiaotian speaks again, “So you are leaving for the banquet now?”

She tilted her head slightly, her voice steady yet tinged with coldness. “Yes, I’m leaving for the banquet now with o-our daughter. If you choose to accompany us, I won’t stand in your way, but I urge you to reconsider. Attending will only invite disdain from others, and I am weary of enduring that. Please, try to understand my perspective.”

Wang Xiaotian looked down at the floor while hearing her excuse, as she indirectly saying him don’t come to the banquet because it will only harm her reputation and her grandparents don’t like him who is the majority shareholder in the company, and she regard him as dead weight on her shoulder that pulling her back to become CEO of SU family business.

Wang Xiaotian hesitated for a moment before nodding in agreement. “Yes, I understand," he said softly. "Since I won’t be attending the banquet, I won’t be needing new clothes or gifts.” With a reluctant sigh, he reached into his wallet and handed her a credit card.

She took the credit card from his hands and placed it in her purse. “Thank you for understanding my feelings,” she said with a smile.

Wang Xiaotian says to her, "It's fine. You're running late; you should go."

Su Muyan gently gathered her daughter in her arms, preparing to leave, when Wang Xiaotian stepped closer, his fingers brushing affectionately over his daughter’s hair. "Su Wanran is becoming more beautiful by the day," he remarked, a warm smile spreading across his face. "Wifey, Ji Yuan will accompany you to the banquet instead of me, right?”

Su Muyan was taken aback by Wang Xiaotian's unexpected actions, a wave of guilt washing over her heart. "Yes, he will accompany me to the banquet. It's my grandfather's wish, and I can't go against that," she explained gently. "Please don’t let jealousy consume you; it’s merely a family gathering, and we’re just friends—nothing more. This will be his first family event since returning from abroad, so let’s avoid any unnecessary scenes, alright?”

Wang Xiaotian chuckles softly, "Oh, there's no need to worry. Creating a scene would yield nothing of value. Why stir the pot when such an endeavor serves no purpose?"

Su Muyan looked at him in pity, “Don’t feel sad before leaving I will make some prodigy for you as your losing too much vitality these day's and prodigy with the tonic send by your master, it will help you recover your health, okay?”

He nodded slightly, watching his wife as she gracefully departed for the banquet. After a moment, he left her room and made his way to his own—though one might call it a storeroom. He climbed onto his bed, lying back and staring blankly at the ceiling, lost in thought.

“Su Muyan, did you forget your promise to accompany me to today’s doctor’s appointment? Tsk, never mind. If the doctor can’t discern the source of my illness, I suppose it’s to be expected. My master relentlessly sends me tonics, yet for some inexplicable reason, they seem to offer no relief. Sigh.” With that, he closed his eyes and surrendered to sleep.

As evening fell, Wang Xiaotian slowly opened his eyes.

His body trembled with weakness, and he coughed up a significant amount of blood, his breath becoming ragged.

"This is bad. I am going to die in one or two days, and I can’t even spend my last day with my daughter!" he clenched his fist and struck the worn-out bed in frustration.

Wang Xiaotian could barely stand on his feet. However, years of rigorous martial arts training compelled him to move toward the kitchen.

"I can’t even go to the hospital, they will charge me a lot of money, and I can’t afford it. If I call Su Muyan, she would roll her eyes and call me a liar again!"

“Food first—need to regain some strength”, Wang Xiaotian said as he opened the fridge to prepare a meal, but his gaze landed on the porridge Su Muyan had made.

Wang Xiaotian sighed and grabbed the dish from the fridge. "Guess I'll eat this," he muttered. Then he noticed a note beside it:

"Your master’s and I bought some supplements and medicine for you. I made porridge from the medicine and supplements. It'll help to restore your energy."

Wang Xiaotian read the note and grinned. "Now I really can't wait to eat this!" Five minutes later, he'd devoured every last bite of porridge made by Su Muyan and cleaned up the entire kitchen.

Wang Xiaotian stumbled out of the kitchen when suddenly, his body turned heavy. His body movement became sluggish.

"Huh? What the hell’s wrong with me? Why can’t I feel my legs?" He barely managed one step before his legs gave out. Blood burst from his mouth, nose, eyes, and ears, splattering the floor as he collapsed. But before he hit the ground, he grinned.

“So, this is it... I'm dying. Funny... why does it feel so damn good? Why do I want to stay like this?”. After saying it, he closed his eyes.

[Banquet]

Many guests came and went from the banquet hall. While the people chatted with each other, two elderly couples shuffled inside.

The crowd erupted in cheers and well-wishes

Congratulations, Mr. Su and Mrs. Chen, on your wedding anniversary!

~"Mr. Su, I’ve brought a bottle of your favourite—1992 Changyu Centennial, the finest vintage. What do you say we share a glass and talk about an exciting opportunity that could benefit us both?"

~"Mr. Su and Mrs. Chen, happy anniversary! My goodness, you two look even more radiant than on your wedding day - is there some fountain of youth you've been keeping secret from us?"

While people praise and congratulate both couples, they move towards the stage and sit down on the chairs: Su Zhengyi sits on the dragon-carved chair, and Chen Xilan sits on the phoenix-engraved one.

"As they took their seats, a stern-faced man stepped forward. With a respectful cupped-fist bow, his stern expression softened into a rare smile. 'Mom, Dad—happy anniversary. May your bond grow stronger with each passing year."

Su Zhengyi chuckled, smoothing his long white beard with pride. "Hahaha! Well said, my son! How could I ever forget this day? Not only is it our anniversary, but now our family stands stronger than ever—thanks to your brilliant daughter and her alliance with AA Group!"

A smile appeared on his face. "We're deeply honoured by your trust, Father. With your wisdom and my daughter's success, the Su family will rise even higher."

"Happy Anniversary, Grandpa and Grandma!" A cheerful voice rang out. "This longevity jade token symbolizes my wishes—may your bond remain unbroken like jade, and each year bring greater harmony."

Chen Xilan rose and embraced Su Jianyu, her eyes glistening with tears. "Thank you, child. Your thoughtful words bless this occasion—don't you agree, husband?"

Su Zhengyi chuckled, nodding proudly. "Absolutely. With a grandson like you, what more could we ask for?"

"Ah, what a heartwarming moment between elders and grandson," remarked a man with an upright posture as he entered the banquet hall and approached the stage. 

"I feel guilty for interrupting—hope we second-generation folks aren’t just third wheels here!" He gave the elderly couple a respectful nod, his tone light but sincere.

Su Zhengyi burst into laughter, wagging a finger at the newcomer. "Are you calling us old, you brat? I could still outrun you any day!" 

He clapped the man’s shoulder, eyes twinkling with mischief. "But more importantly—why is our son late to his parents’ anniversary? That’s three penalty glasses of wine for you!"

"Mom, Dad—happy anniversary," the man said, his voice thick with emotion as he pressed his fists together and bowed deeply. "May your love continue to shine brighter with each passing year. We’re all so blessed to celebrate this day with you."

"Elder Brother Weiming—what better way to celebrate than with a drink together?" Su Linfeng grinned, raising his cup in a respectful salute, his fist pressed against his palm. "Tonight, let’s toast to family and fortune!"

Su Weiming embraced Su Linfeng firmly, pride resonating in his voice. "Brother, your daughter brings great honour to our Su family. Her achievements fill me with pride."

His attention turned to the boy beside them, a warm gleam in his eyes. "Su Jianyu grows more impressive each day. Nephew, remember—this uncle’s support remains yours whenever business difficulties arise."

Su Jianyu pressed his palms together in salute. "This nephew thanks Uncle. Should difficulties arise, you'll be the first I seek."

Su Weiming's expression darkened as he faced his parents. "Father, Mother, forgive me. Yuqin and Siyu couldn't attend—my mother-in-law fell suddenly ill. She sends her apologies and regards." He bowed his head respectfully.

Su Xilan’s expression softened with concern as she took her son’s hand. "Naturally, we understand—family duty comes before all. Who could blame such devotion?" Her grip tightened slightly, voice laced with worry. "Is your honoured mother-in-law improving? Has a skilled physician attended her?"

Su Weiming nodded wearily. "Mother, she improves steadily—though you know her health has always been delicate. Yuqin attends to her with utmost care." He offered a faint, reassuring smile. "Please set your heart at ease; all is being managed properly."

The banquet hall doors burst open as Li Mei and Su Yixin rushed in, cheeks flushed from exertion. They immediately mounted the stage and performed a synchronized bow, hands pressed together in respectful greeting toward the elderly couple.

"Father, Mother—happy anniversary," Li Mei said warmly, pressing her palms together in salute. "May the heavens grant you a hundred years of shared harmony."

Su Yixin nodded eagerly, adding, "And may our family continue to flourish under your guidance!"

Chen Xilan rose with moist eyes, her hand gently stroking Su Yixin's hair. "This old heart can't take such happiness—to be blessed by both our grandchildren and daughters-in-law on this day..." 

Su Weiming pressed his palms together in salute, admiration clear in his expression. "Sister-in-law, congratulations. Your daughter's alliance with AA Group is impressive—it will undoubtedly advance her future." He scanned the room. "Where is our accomplished niece? This merits proper celebration!"

Li Mei waved dismissively, her proud smile laced with humour. "Brother-in-law, no need for concern, she’ll arrive shortly. You know her nature: once committed, not even immovable mountains could divert her." She smoothed her sleeve. "She worked through the night on the AA Group matter, yet family celebrations remain her priority."

In the crowded hall, hushed whispers circulated among the guests:

"While other wealthy clans collapse from internal strife, the Su family remains unshaken—their generational unity is their true strength. No wonder they're becoming the next prominent family."

"Pfft!" A nearby listener scoffed. "You must be new here. These 'noble' Su family are wolves in sheep's clothing—they'd sell their ancestors for profit!"

"What? Seriously?" another gasped, eyes widening. 

The murmurs of gossip abruptly ceased as Su Moyan entered the banquet hall. Her aloof, expressionless demeanour immediately drew all eyes—but the true shock came from the unfamiliar man beside her, their hands clasped together as they walked, her cheeks bearing an uncharacteristic flush. Behind them, a bodyguard followed, carrying her sleeping two-year-old daughter securely against his shoulder.

The crowd erupted in mixed reactions—cheers, gasps, and murmurs of jealousy—as the striking man entered with Su Moyan.

"Who is that distinguished gentleman?"

"A hundred times more refined than that useless Wang Xiaotian!"

"Could this mean Su Moyan has divorced him?"

"You fools, that’s Ji Yuan! He was the main reason for the Su family’s rise these past five years!"

"Well deserved, Goddess Su! Five years of marriage was more than enough courtesy to that deadweight."

After hearing people criticize Wang Xiaotian and her guilt of cheating,  she composed herself with a deep breath before approaching the elderly couple. "Grandfather, Grandmother," she greeted respectfully, "congratulations on your anniversary. We three have prepared gifts—this Eternal Youth Pendant is crafted from imperial jade, and these wooden Buddha beads, recently carved by Ji Yuan, will ward off negative energies for you both."

The elderly couple's eyes widened in astonishment. "Such fortune, to receive Buddha beads carved by Ji Yuan himself!" Su Zhengyi exclaimed. "In the market, these would command fifty million!"

Murmurs spread through the crowd: "Just wooden beads? How could they be so valuable?"

"Are you unaware? Master Ling Mei personally trained Ji Yuan—she is one of the five great masters of the Elemental sect. Any wood or jade she engraves becomes priceless, valued at over 100 million. What then would you expect from her direct disciple's work?"

"Within the Elemental Sect, the other four masters also accepted him as their True Disciple, each imparting their specialized arts to him."

After his praise in the crowd, an arrogant smirk appeared on Ji Yuan's lips. He moved forward and wished the old couple, “Congratulations, Uncle and Aunt, on your wedding anniversary!” He didn’t cup his fist and bow down in front of the old couple.

“You don’t need to call us uncle or aunt. Think of us as your grandparents,” Chen Xilan speaks in a warm tone.

Su Zhengyi looked at Su Moyan and slightly narrowed his eyes. “Su Moyan, I hope you don’t bring that disgrace into my wedding anniversary banquet.

He said coldly. "Though I must acknowledge your judgment in securing the AA Group partnership—and your choice of escort."

Su Moyan speaks in a calm voice, “Grandpa, there is no need for concern. I didn’t come with Wang Xiaotian. He has a fever; that’s why he didn’t come alongside me”.

Su Zhengyi nodded down, “Good, at least he is sensible as to what is right and wrong for him”.

Su Linfeng announced enthusiastically, "With all guests assembled, let the celebration commence! Father, Mother—this 'Tiger Descending Mountains' painting from the Song Dynasty is my gift to you. It's current appraisal values it at ten million."

The elderly couple studied the painting intently. "A remarkable work of art," Su Zhengyi remarked. "Chen Xilan, don't you agree?" She responded with an approving nod and warm smile.

Su Yixin presented her gift with a respectful bow. "Grandfather, Grandmother, this Divine Qinlin Seal will attract prosperity to your household. A family friend assisted in its acquisition."

Chen Xilan carefully lifted the seal, her voice warm but steady. "Your grandfather and I will cherish this seal, Yixin. It means a great deal to us."

"Since my brother presents a Song Dynasty painting, I cannot be outdone. Father, Mother, this Tang Dynasty Lightning Dragon statue will safeguard your health and repel malignant energies." Su Weiming gestured, and attendants placed the 30-centimeter artifact before them.

Chen Xilan's specialty is the statue as she stands up in excitement. “According to the statue's rarity from the Tang Dynasty, the statue is worth around 50 or 60 million dollars on the international market. Thank you, son, for such a gift. I love it”.

The audience watched in stunned silence as treasure after treasure was unveiled. None dared present their gifts afterward, their offerings paling in comparison.