Chapter 15: Xia Yangyang's Concerns

Gu Qichen asked, "What's wrong with Xiao Han?"

Gu Mingzhu replied blandly, "He's always been like this, hasn't he?"

Gu Qichen said, "He seems different lately. Has something happened?"

Gu Mingzhu responded casually, "He's a teenager; some odd behavior is normal. Besides, you're his idol. He always tries to emulate you, so I'm not worried. With an excellent uncle like you, my son won't be far behind."

However, Xia Yangyang felt uneasy. She suspected Gu Zhaohan's change in demeanor stemmed from her arrival. As an outsider who had suddenly joined the family, she was now his young aunt, despite being only a few months younger than him. This had shifted the family dynamic, and she had inadvertently taken some of his uncle's attention—his idol's attention. She understood that this could easily upset him.

Previously, Xia Yangyang considered herself Gu Zhaohan's friend. His sudden coldness, she believed, was a direct result of this new family arrangement. Feeling the need to address the situation, she decided to talk to him.

That evening, after Gu Mingzhu prepared a fruit platter for Gu Zhaohan, Xia Yangyang volunteered to deliver it. As she ascended to his room, she felt nervous. She knocked, but received no answer. After a second knock, the door suddenly opened, revealing Gu Zhaohan, looking cold and distant. He seemed slightly taken aback by her presence.

Xia Yangyang smiled and said, "Gu Zhaohan, I brought you some fruit." (She had previously called him "Xiao Han," which had annoyed him, so she opted for a more formal address.)

Gu Zhaohan's expression didn't worsen, but he asked indifferently, "Did you just come to bring me fruit?"

Xia Yangyang replied, "Actually, I wanted to talk to you about something else."

Gu Zhaohan's expression shifted subtly, and he opened the door wider. "Come in."

Entering his room, Xia Yangyang was struck by its resemblance to Gu Qichen's. The large bed, tall bookshelf, and full-length window were nearly identical. She realized the extent of Gu Zhaohan's admiration for his uncle.

She set down the fruit platter, beginning to speak, but Gu Zhaohan coldly interrupted, "Just say what you have to say."

Xia Yangyang decided to be direct. "Gu Zhaohan, your uncle still loves you very much. Even though he married me, nothing will change between you two. You're family by blood; I can never replace you in his heart. And now, you've gained an aunt. From now on, we'll be a family, and I'll love you just as your uncle does."

Xia Yangyang had poured out her heart, but Gu Zhaohan's expression turned gloomy.