CHAPTER 7:SHADOWS IF RIVALRY

The days that followed Mei Li's arrival were like walking through an unspoken warzone. Nothing was said outright, but everything had changed. Where there had once been warmth and familiarity, there was now cold civility and calculated smiles.

Mei Xing felt like a guest in her own home.

Madam Lin spent more time with Mei Li—shopping trips, afternoon tea, shared laughter echoing through the mansion halls. And whenever Mei Xing entered the room, the laughter stopped, replaced by awkward silence or polite glances. The shift was subtle, but deeply painful.

Even the staff, though respectful, seemed torn. Some still treated Mei Xing with the same warmth and deference, but others had started shifting their attention toward the new daughter, as though unsure whom to prioritize.

Mei Xing tried to ignore it, tried to remind herself that love wasn't measured by blood alone—but the reality kept hitting her like a tidal wave. She was no longer the only daughter. No longer the center of their world.

And Mei Li didn't try to hide her growing confidence.

One evening during dinner, Madam Lin praised Mei Li's understanding of classical literature. "She has such refined taste," she beamed. "You'd think she was born for this life."

Mei Xing clenched her fork tighter. Was that a subtle jab?

Mr. Lin nodded thoughtfully. "Yes, she's adjusting quickly. It's impressive how naturally she fits in."

Mei Li smiled sweetly. "Well, maybe some things are just meant to be."

Mei Xing shot her a glance. Meant to be?

She excused herself from the table before her emotions could spill over.

Later that night, as she stood alone on the balcony, Mei Li joined her.

"Beautiful view, isn't it?" Mei Li said, leaning beside her.

Mei Xing didn't reply.

Mei Li turned to her. "I know this must be hard for you. Having me here."

"It's not about you being here," Mei Xing said calmly. "It's about how everyone's pretending like I've suddenly become invisible."

Mei Li tilted her head, her voice low and laced with mock sympathy. "Well, maybe you're just not used to sharing the spotlight."

Mei Xing turned sharply toward her. "I didn't ask for any spotlight. But I earned my place in this family."

"And I was born into it," Mei Li replied, her smile fading. "No matter how hard you try, you'll always be the outsider."

The words struck hard, but Mei Xing stood tall. "Being family isn't about blood. It's about loyalty. Respect. Love. You might have their DNA—but you haven't earned their hearts."

Mei Li smirked. "We'll see who truly belongs here in the end."

As she walked away, Mei Xing's heart burned—not with fear, but with resolve.

A storm had started between them—and it wouldn't end quietly.