The car door slid open silently.
Li Wen was the first to step out, his posture ramrod straight, a characteristic intensity in his expression.
His father and mother followed close behind.
Once again, they watched with their own eyes as the family of three safely disembarked from a formal sedan that, from its appearance alone, was clearly expensive and signified high-level clearance.
Seeing a driver in a Fire Hall uniform respectfully open the door for them, then stand at attention by the car, completely dispelled any lingering doubts.
Shock, like a tangible wave, silently washed over the faces of relatives, both familiar and not, before settling in.
What followed was a complete reversal in their attitudes.
Li Fude, who was habitually the center of attention, surrounded by a crowd as he spoke, now wore a smile that had lost its usual touch of superiority, replaced by obvious caution and eagerness.
