Moments later—

On the other end, Situ Ming jolted as if struck by lightning, then exclaimed in shock, “Boyfriend?! Changxi, you just graduated high school! You’re too young for that. You’ve only known him a day! Sweetheart, what’s that boy’s name? Tomorrow—no, today—actually, right now—I’ll send someone to break his legs!”

Hearing her father grow increasingly agitated and even threaten extreme measures, Situ Changxi finally realized he’d misunderstood. She quickly waved her hands. “Dad! I meant a male friend—not *that* kind of boyfriend! What are you even thinking?!”

Situ Ming, who’d been simmering with irritation, instantly cooled down—as if ice water had doused a red-hot iron. He let out a long, relieved sigh.

He simply wasn’t ready to let go of the daughter he’d raised with such care. Changxi’s words had nearly given him a heart attack. Had she not clarified, he might truly have sent someone after Xiaofeng’s legs.

After all, beneath society’s peaceful surface lurked hidden dangers. Honestly? Few problems money couldn’t solve—and if there was one thing Situ Ming never lacked, it was money.

“Dad, can’t I just talk to my new friend for a bit and come right back to the banquet?” Changxi asked, voice tinged with coquettish pleading.

Though utterly defenseless against her charm, Situ Ming forced himself to refuse. “No. I won’t allow you to meet a boy you just met yesterday—a complete stranger!”

Changxi had always assumed her foolproof pouting would work. But after eighteen years, this was the first time it failed. A hint of frustration crept into her voice. “Dad, what’s to worry about? You assigned two bodyguards to protect me!”

“Changxi, it’s not that I won’t allow it. I worry his intentions aren’t pure. I run a massive conglomerate and family—what if he’s after my wealth or connections?”

Changxi understood. Her father’s position demanded caution—human hearts were unpredictable. But she was in her rebellious phase. Even if he had a point, she didn’t care. She didn’t believe Xiaofeng was that kind of person.

She’d rarely connected so well with a guy. Was she really supposed to back down just because Dad said no?

“He’s not like that! I don’t care—I’m going tomorrow. If I’m late to the banquet, so be it!”

She hung up. All she could think about was Tianjing Water Park tomorrow: Would Xiaofeng show up? If he did, she’d demand why he ignored her friend request—and pretend to be furious.

***

The next morning—

Xiaofeng was deep in sleep when his phone blared:

*“Son’s calling! Son’s calling~”*

He snatched it from under his pillow and grumbled, “Damn it… Why’s Li Wei calling so damn early?”

Annoyed but answering anyway: “Son? What the hell are you calling for at this hour?”

Li Wei chuckled mischievously, unfazed. “Stop sleeping! Get up and vibe! I’ve got big news. Meet me NOW at the internet cafe beside Tianjing Water Park. Don’t come? You’re the son! Seriously—*you’re the son!*”

He hung up before Xiaofeng could protest.

Xiaofeng muttered, “Big news? Did he finally climb out of Iron into Bronze?”

He tried rolling back to sleep—but once awake, sleep was gone. After tossing and turning, he grumbled his way out of bed, washed up, and headed out.

No sign of Liu Qing from across the hall this time. Instead, Uncle Wang from next door spotted him.

“Xiaofeng!” Uncle Wang called warmly. “Pork ribs stewing tonight—come eat! Don’t forget!”

Flustered by the familiar kindness, Xiaofeng stammered, “Uncle Wang, that’s too much trouble…”

“Nonsense! Why so shy? A young man needs thicker skin to survive out there! Be here tonight!”

Uncle Wang disappeared inside. Xiaofeng could only smile wryly—and accept.