Chapter 205: The Scent of Fireworks

Gu Qichen prepared Xia Yangyang's favorite dish: shredded chicken noodle soup. The broth, made from wild chicken, was incredibly delicious. Just standing nearby, Xia Yangyang's mouth watered.

"It's almost ready," Gu Qichen said. "Go call Xiao Han to dinner."

Xia Yangyang happily went to Gu Zhaohan's room from the dining room. She knocked twice, and Gu Zhaohan opened the door. Seeing her, he frowned slightly.

"What is it?" he asked.

"Ah Chen made dinner—chicken noodle soup," Xia Yangyang said. "You didn't eat either; let's eat together."

"I'm not hungry," Gu Zhaohan replied coldly, then closed the door.

Xia Yangyang was baffled. She couldn't understand Gu Zhaohan's personality. She'd thought their relationship had improved, but his moods were so unpredictable.

She returned to the dining room alone. Gu Qichen had already served two bowls of noodles.

"Your older nephew isn't hungry and won't eat," Xia Yangyang said.

Gu Qichen's brows furrowed slightly.

"Don't worry, I'll eat it all," Xia Yangyang said, sitting down.

Looking at the delicious food, she couldn't resist. In no time, she finished a bowl, soup and all.

"Eat slowly," Gu Qichen chuckled. "No one's racing you."

Xia Yangyang was truly hungry. After finishing two bowls, she patted her belly. "Husband, you're spoiling me fat!"

Gu Qichen pinched her cheek. "It's good to gain weight; then I can have meat."

"I'm not a pig!"

"You're just a gluttonous little pig."

As they bickered, Mingzhu entered. Xia Yangyang immediately sat up straight. "Sister," she greeted.

Xia Yangyang was slightly intimidated by Mingzhu, even though Mingzhu was kind and gentle. Perhaps it was because Xia Yangyang had seen interviews showcasing Mingzhu as a powerful, elegant, and naturally reserved figure in the fashion industry.

Mingzhu smiled. "Ah Chen, Yangyang, I'm flying to Paris soon. I wanted to let you know you can stay here for a while. Your presence makes Father happier."

Gu Qichen nodded and stood. "I'll take you to the airport."

"No need," Mingzhu said. "The driver will take me. Rest well tonight." She walked over to Gu Qichen and adjusted his collar. "Ah Chen, don't overwork yourself. Pay attention to your health. Eat and sleep on time. You might not care now, but problems will appear when you're older."

Gu Qichen laughed. "Sister, I'm not a kid anymore. Why do you say the same things every time you leave?"

Mingzhu smiled softly. "In my heart, you'll always be a child."

Xia Yangyang found the scene heartwarming. Both were unattainable figures in their respective industries, yet in that moment, they shared a simple, familial bond.

The following days continued as usual: classes, papers, rehearsals, and returning home. It's worth mentioning that Gu Zhaohan's fear of having his picture taken improved daily under Xia Yangyang's "tough love" approach.