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Chapter 3 - Chapter 3 : New Beginning

In her previous life, Chen Zeyan hadn't even appeared on their wedding night.

Because of that she had been heartbroken and angry, refusing to meet anyone.

Instead, she had locked herself in her room, sulking. Even without trying to see the reason.

she refuce to greet the elders.. She was angry and ashamed.

Ans she had been so foolish—believing that someone would come and coax her.

Chen Zeyan was the eldest grandson of Old Master Chen, was the most valued heir of the Chen Enterprise.

His marriage wasn't just a union between two people—it was a matter of prestige for the entire Chen family.

To honor the occasion, several of Old Master Chen's closest friends had come in person, each one a powerful patriarch from a renowned family, making the atmosphere even more intimidating.

That time her act of defiance had shattered her reputation and brought disgrace to both Chen and Liu families.

And all of it—every ounce of humiliation—had begun because she had foolishly trusted that Li Xinyi, whom she once called a friend.

'Sign.. could she blame anyone else for her own foolishness?..'

'She was the one who had let the snake like woman have a chance to destroy her.

She was the one who cried and called that wretched woman, complained with tears that Chen Zeyan hadn't shown up on their wedding night.

And like a fool, she had earnestly listened to that two faced woman's words—

And acted like some spoiled princess on hunger strike, thinking that he would care.

In the end, Mrs. Chen's sharp reprimand had left her no choice but to appear before everyone, with her eyes swollen from tears and her face streaked with snot—utterly disgracefully,

' ugh..She can't think it anymore.. '

That moment became the greatest humiliation for the Chen family:

' their daughter-in-law showing up to the tea ceremony late, unkempt, with messy hair and tear-stained cheeks.'

No—she wouldn't let it happen again. Never...

The memories of her past humiliation still burned in her chest, but this time, she would face everything with her head held high.

Taking a steady breath, Yiran straightened her back, take a look at the white cheongsam Mrs Chen arranged for her...

It was such a beautiful and elegant dress.

But in her previous life she was blind goose who don't know what is good for her. Sign...

After getting ready she descended the stairs with calm, graceful steps towards the familiar scene that she already lived through once —

Each one a silent promise that the naive girl from her previous life no longer existed.

There's a grand sitting area arranged symmetrically with dark wooden furniture —

A long central couch with beige upholstery and multiple cushions in earthy tones, accompanied by matching couches and a low wooden tea table.

The table holds a jade porcelain tea set, adding to the room's refined and serene atmosphere.

A richly patterned area rug beneath the furniture adds warmth and texture.

The most striking feature is the towering vertical painting that dominates the wall behind the main couch.

It depicts a elegent mountain and river landscape, with misty peaks, flowing water, pine trees, and a small boat — evoking tranquility and cultural depth.

A spotlight from above softly illuminates the upper part of the painting, highlighting its beauty.

Large wooden lattice windows surround the room, letting in natural light and giving a glimpse of an outdoor view — possibly a serene courtyard or lake.

On one side, a hanging light fixture with round golden orbs cascades from the ceiling, adding a soft, ambient glow that complements the warm lighting of the lamps placed on the side tables.

Soon she appear to the hall with fitted white silk cheongsam, its fabric smooth and luminous under the soft light.

Pale silver and mist-green floral embroidery trailed gracefully from her shoulder down to the hem, delicate as brushstrokes in an ink painting.

The high collar and short sleeves framed her slender neck and fair skin, while the side slit revealed a subtle glimpse of her graceful figure with each movement.

Her hair was styled into an elegant updo, adorned with a silver hairpin set with pearls, adding a touch of classic charm.

The entire look was understated yet breathtaking—pure, poised, and ethereal, like a lotus blooming quietly in still water.

Soon, the guests—elders from several prominent families—took their seats of honor. Servants moved gracefully through the hall, offering tea and delicate refreshments.

A moment later, Old Master Chen and Old Madam Chen entered, their presence commanding instant respect.

Mr. and Mrs. Chen followed right behind them, greeting the elders politely before taking their seats nearby.

The hall quieted as everyone settled in, and the atmosphere grew poised and expectant—the tea ceremony was about to begin.

Even though Liu Yiran didn't want to continue this marriage, she couldn't avoid the tea ceremony. It was a matter of family honor, something no one—least of all her—could refuse.

Liu Yiran's gaze unintentionally fell on Chen Zeyan who engaged in conversation with few elders.

Still good-looking as ever—tall, calm,composed, every feature perfectly carved,"A jade-like gentleman".The praise perfect for him.

Yet his face remained cold and indifferent, untouched by emotion.

She quickly looked away, his face still effecting her, she smiled warily, her heart heavy with pain and hating herself for it.

She took a deep breath...

As the tea ceremony began, Liu Yiran entered the main hall gracefully, her steps calm and measured.

Soon Chen Zeyan came beside her, the two of them walking unhurriedly through the hall under countless watchful eyes.

The white cheongsam made her complexion appear even more fairer than before, almost glowing under the warm light. Her large, ink-black eyes added to her gentle charm, making her look both sweet and pure.

Seeing this scene, everyone present in hall was amazed.

They had long known that the daughter of the Liu family was a beauty, but they had always thought she wasn't compatible with Chen Zeyan.

Yet now, watching the two of them stand together so gracefully, they couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration — the pair looked unexpectedly perfect side by side.

Mrs. Chen's expression softened slightly as she exhaled a quiet breath of relief.

She hadn't forgotten the wedding night incident — when Ah Ze had been called away on urgent business, and her daughter-in-law's impulsive reaction had caused quite the stir.

Fearing a repeat of that embarrassment, she had braced herself for trouble today.

But unexpectedly, the young woman carried herself with poise and maturity.

'Good...' Mrs. Chen thought to herself. At least she knows her place now —

May the rest of the ceremony pass without any incident.

As the couple bowed gracefully to the elders before kneeling together on the red cushions prepared in advance.

Their movements were calm and elegant, each motion reflecting quiet respect and harmony.

Liu Yiran carefully lifted the porcelain teacup with both hands, her slender fingers steady and poised.

A faint wisp of steam curled upward, carrying the delicate fragrance of Longjing tea through the still air.

She lowered her gaze slightly as she presented the cup to Old Master Chen, her manner neither humble nor proud — only serene and graceful, like a flower in full bloom beneath the morning light.

Old Master Chen's expression softened as he gave a slight nod of approval.

He accepted the teacup with steady hands, the faint aroma of Longjing tea rising in delicate wisps.

Taking a slow sip, he savored the taste before setting the cup down.

"Good tea," he said evenly, his deep voice carrying quiet satisfaction.

"And well-served. Steady hands, composed bearing — not bad at all."

Saying that he took out the hongbao he prepared in advance and presented it to her.

Yiran bowed her head slightly in acknowledgment before receving it with her both hands.

She lifting the next cup. With both hands, she respectfully presented it to Old Madam Chen.

The old lady received it with a gentle smile, her eyes glimmering with warmth.

She took a light sip, the corners of her lips curling upward.

"Such a graceful child," she remarked kindly.

"Polite, thoughtful — truly pleasing to the eye and heart. The Chen family is fortunate."

As she spoke, she gently removed the jade bangle from her wrist.

"This was bestowed upon me by my mother-in-law when I first entered this household as a bride, child I'd like you to have it now. "

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