"That’s right, I didn’t expect..." Lingling shrugged.

"Brother Tang Song, why don’t you join us?" Deng Yuxuan suddenly chimed in, her eyes sparkling, "I’ve heard the signature roasted pigeon at that restaurant is particularly delicious."

As for her uncle and aunt’s boastful nature, she found it slightly unpleasant.

This time it was obvious they wanted to flaunt her cousin’s so-called "ideal husband."

But she felt that Sister Lingling’s boyfriend was more impressive!

In terms of appearance, character, and demeanor, he was filled with irresistible charm.

If he went along, he’d definitely be the most dazzling guy there.

Lingling was startled on the spot and quickly waved her hand, "No, no, no! Stop spouting nonsense, Xuanxuan."

She turned to Tang Song, blushing, and whispered, "Senior... I’m just going to have a meal, quick in and out. That means... I can’t have lunch with you."

After all, she and Tang Song were just "one-day boyfriend and girlfriend."

How could she attend such a formal family gathering with him?

Even if they were a real couple, showing up uninvited would be quite abrupt.

It wouldn’t be appropriate and would put Tang Song in a difficult position.

Tang Song looked at her, a hint of amusement flashed in his eyes, and he kissed her cheek, "It’s okay, you go ahead, have fun."

Then he leaned into the junior’s ear and said in a voice only they could hear, "As long as we can soak in the hot spring together tonight."

His voice was clear and magnetic, and his sparkling eyes brimmed with tenderness.

Lingling’s eyelids twitched.

Once again reflecting internally: The senior isn’t just the king of the sea, he’s a genuine enchanting demon.

Next to them, Deng Jia remained composed on the surface, but was intensely envious inside.

They had all grown up together as cousins, knowing each other inside out.

Suddenly realizing this carefree cousin had brought along a top-tier attractive man for "showing off" felt unreal.

Envy and jealousy intertwined within her.

Deng Yuxuan sighed regretfully.

...

On the road, the three chatted away.

Most of it was Deng Yuxuan asking questions.

Lingling pretended to be calm as she responded, her heart pounding non-stop.

Her mind was filled with thoughts of soaking with the senior in the hot spring.

The Yunxi Valley restaurant was located in the main building of the resort, about a ten-minute walk from the amusement center.

Under the guidance of a waiter, they entered the most luxurious "888" suite.

Inside the private room, there was not only an exclusive lounge and bathroom but also a scenic balcony overlooking the resort.

Clearly, Uncle was truly splurging this time.

Quite a few relatives had already arrived.

Father Yao Guanjie, mother Zhang Xiufang, Uncle Yao Guanying, Aunt Chen Yan, Big Aunt Yao Xuemei, Little Aunt Yao Xueli...

However, the main characters Yao Rourou and her boyfriend weren’t present.

"Lingling is here!" Big Aunt Yao Xuemei was the first to stand up, cheerfully taking her hand, "Oh my, you’re getting prettier! I heard the clothes you designed are going viral online, you’re quite the designer now!"

Zhang Xiufang immediately grinned widely, humbly speaking but her eyes filled with pride.

Lingling giggled as she greeted everyone, then sat beside her mom.

She casually asked, "Has Sister Rourou not arrived yet?"

Uncle Yao Guanying said slowly, "Rourou and Yunxiao live in the city, it’s a hassle to come over, plus it’s traffic jam on weekends, so they’re a bit late, but they’re probably on their way."

During the casual chatter.

Mom Zhang Xiufang took out her phone, pulling up trending news.

Mentioning topics about "Su Yu," "He Yi," "Windbreaker."

Lingling found it amusing yet cooperatively played along with her mom’s "showing off."

For a moment, she was forced into becoming the focus of the room.

Yao Guanying and Chen Yan’s expressions became somewhat subtle, after all, today’s main characters were supposed to be them.

At that moment.

The door to the private room opened once more.

Lingling looked up and saw her cousin Yao Rourou walk in, accompanied by a young man who seemed both unfamiliar and familiar.

It was none other than Gong Yunxiao, whom she had only seen in photos on social media.

His features were well-defined, dressed in cashmere sweater, an air of heroism between his brows.

Although he wasn’t stunning, his entire presence was vibrant, composed in temperament.

"Rourou is here!"

"This must be Yunxiao, truly a talented person!"

"Yunxiao, Rourou! It must have been tough on the road, come sit here!"

...

For a moment, relatives rose enthusiastically to greet the "golden couple," ushering them near the main table.

Uncle Yao Guanying, beaming with pride, introduced Gong Yunxiao’s background.

The atmosphere instantly became more lively.

Lingling smacked her lips, but she could understand.

Gong Yunxiao graduated with a master’s degree from a prestigious university, working in a vital department like the provincial Development and Reform Commission.

As a third-level section cadre, although the rank was equivalent to a sub-section head, everyone knew that in such places, positions mattered more than ranks.

His department directly participated in macro policy and major project approvals for the province.

In the family group chats, Uncle had hinted several times.

Gong Yunxiao was highly valued by leaders, with promising career prospects, possibly advancing to a fourth-level research officer (sub-department head) before turning thirty-five.

But to the ordinary wage earners, small business owners, and even laid-off relatives present, Gong Yunxiao’s "third-level section cadre" status was already admirable and enviable.

This signified stability, respectability, and immense future growth potential.

The relatives hoped to benefit from this in the future.

Even Lingling’s mom, who typically clashed with Aunt, was smilingly standing up at this moment, eagerly greeting them.