Chapter 26: The Patriarch's Summon

Chapter 26: The Patriarch's Summon

Xiao Chen and Xiao Rongyu walked side by side through the Xiao Family Courtyard, their steps echoing softly on the stone path. Xiao Rongyu’s gaze remained fixed ahead, her expression unreadable. The disciples they passed cast quick, cautious glances in their direction, avoiding eye contact with Xiao Chen as though he were a storm waiting to break.

Xiao Chen’s gaze briefly drifted to her profile. Her golden hair flowed like silk, catching the sunlight with each graceful step. Her posture was straight and proud, the curves of her figure evident in the delicately tailored golden robes. The intricate yellow patterns along the fabric shimmered like threads of sunlight, and the tight-fitting pants and belt highlighted her lithe form. For a moment, he simply watched her, lost in the beauty of the woman who had once been his closest friend, now so distant.

“Rong…” His voice was soft, almost hesitant.