My Little Boy is Always Teasing Me | Chapter 69 | A Quiet Acceptance | Novela.app

Chapter 69 - A Quiet Acceptance The atmosphere in the hotel suite softened considerably after Xie Chengnan’s blatant display of pride. Lin Yin looked at her son, then at the young man sitting beside him, and couldn't help but feel a pang of maternal anxiety. Jiang Yuan was only nineteen, a sophomore at Nancheng University, and possessed the kind of breathtaking beauty—those shimmering peach-blossom eyes and a delicate widow's peak—that would naturally draw admirers like moths to a flame. He was an "Academic God" in his own right, ranking third in a competitive major like Business Administration at Nanda. In contrast, her son was a man of few words, often projecting an aura of ascetic charm that bordered on being stiff and unyielding. *How on earth did this block of wood manage to tether such a spirited and brilliant young man to his side?* Lin Yin wondered. She feared that as Jiang Yuan grew older and saw more of the world, he might realize he could do better than her son, who was already approaching thirty and lived a life consumed by robotics and algorithms. "It’s good that you’re focusing on your studies," Lin Yin said, her voice warm and encouraging. "Nanda is an excellent school. Chengnan was much the same at your age—always buried in his projects. It seems you two have more in common than I thought." Jiang Yuan smiled, the curve of his lips graceful and sincere. "Chengnan actually helps me quite a bit with my more technical courses. Having a 'King' of industry as a live-in tutor is a luxury I don't take for granted." Xie Chengnan’s expression remained stoic, but the slight softening of his brow betrayed his satisfaction. He reached out, his hand naturally finding its way to the small of Jiang Yuan’s back in a protective, possessive gesture. It was a subtle movement, yet it didn't escape the notice of his parents. To them, it was a clear sign that their son had truly "tasted the forbidden fruit" and was now utterly devoted to this "Little Ancestor." "Since the hotel is right next to your place, let's head down to the restaurant," Xie Xun suggested, standing up and smoothing out his coat. "I’ve heard the local Nancheng cuisine here is quite authentic. I wouldn't mind a bowl of Chestnut and Pork Rib Soup to ward off the winter chill." The group moved to a private dining room downstairs. The decor was elegant, featuring traditional Chinese motifs that complemented the high-end atmosphere of the Jiangyue residential district. As the dishes were served—Sweet and Sour Lychee Pork, Cordyceps and shredded chicken porridge, and various seasonal delicacies—the conversation flowed more naturally. Jiang Yuan proved to be an impeccable host. Despite his status as a scion of the Jiang family, he showed no trace of the arrogance often associated with the "Four Great Families." He was attentive, ensuring Lin Yin’s tea was always warm and engaging Xie Xun in discussions about the current economic climate in Nancheng. He navigated the social nuances with a grace that suggested he was well-prepared to one day stand at the helm of the Jiang Corporation. Watching them, Lin Yin felt her lingering worries begin to dissipate. She saw the way Jiang Yuan looked at her son—not with the fleeting infatuation of a teenager, but with a deep, grounded affection. When Xie Chengnan reflexively moved a piece of ginger out of Jiang Yuan’s bowl, knowing the younger man’s dislikes, the silent understanding between them was more profound than any grand declaration of love. It was the kind of "dog food" that, while slightly embarrassing for the parents to witness, was ultimately deeply reassuring. As the dinner drew to a close, the cold Nancheng night pressed against the windows, but the warmth inside the room remained. Xie Xun and Lin Yin prepared to retire to their suite, exhausted from their journey but heartened by the reality of their son’s life. "We’ll let you two get back," Lin Yin said as they stood in the hotel lobby. She reached out and patted Jiang Yuan’s hand. "Take care of each other. And Chengnan, don't spend all your time in the lab. Make sure you take阿沅 out for some fresh air occasionally." "I will, Mom," Xie Chengnan replied, his voice low and steady. As the couple walked back toward their villa in the Xiyuan Estates, the moonlight cast long shadows on the pavement. Jiang Yuan tucked his hands into his pockets, leaning slightly into Xie Chengnan’s side. The bustling energy of the city seemed far away, replaced by the quiet domesticity they had built together. Tomorrow was New Year’s Eve, a time for family and new beginnings, and for the first time in years, the future felt remarkably bright.