"Don't worry about it. You'll get it tomorrow anyway."
"Oh." Shi Xinxin tightened her grip on the phone. "I understand."
"Bye-bye, see you tomorrow."
Shi Xinxin put down the phone, her eyes instantly welling up.
She covered her mouth, and tears spilled through her fingers.
For so many years, besides her mother and grandmother, she never knew anyone cared about her, let alone giving her gifts.
Her world consisted only of her mother, her grandmother, and the aunties who took care of her.
Now, someone was actually saying they would send her something.
Shi Xinxin took a deep breath and wiped away her tears.
Even though her tears were worthless, she didn't want to cry.
She wasn't a child anymore; she shouldn't worry her Mommy and Grandma.
Shi Xinxin took two deep breaths, trying her best to compose herself.
The next day.
After waking up and washing up, Shi Xinxin put on makeup and dressed up.
Sheng Chenjin's lifestyle was very disciplined. During breakfast, Sheng Chenjin didn't say a word, quietly enjoying his meal.
Shi Xinxin didn't dare to speak either.
She didn't know why Sheng Chenjin had called her out today, but she hoped it wasn't for what she suspected.
"I'm done eating," Sheng Chenjin said, getting up and wiping his lips with a napkin.
"Young Master Sheng..." Shi Xinxin hurried to catch up with him. "What is it that you called me for?"
"Tonight at eight o'clock, wait for me at the hotel," Sheng Chenjin's tone was light, but it brooked no argument.
"..." Shi Xinxin frowned. "I..."
"No refusal!" Sheng Chenjin's stern voice cut in.
"I... Alright..." Shi Xinxin lowered her head, dejected.
Sheng Chenjin strode out.
Watching Sheng Chenjin's tall figure disappear from sight, Shi Xinxin breathed a sigh of relief.
Sheng Chenjin drove to the Shi family villa. Shi Jinsong was watering flowers in the courtyard.
"Dad, I have something I'd like to discuss with you."
"What is it?" Shi Jinsong looked up.
"Tonight at eight o'clock, in room 888 of the 'Imperial Palace' hotel, I'd like to invite you to my engagement banquet with Xinxin."
"Have you really decided?" Shi Jinsong frowned.
"Yes, Dad."
Shi Jinsong sighed. "I agree to your engagement to Xinxin."
Shi Jinsong looked at Sheng Chenjin. "I hope you will be responsible for my daughter."
"Of course."
"How many years have you been dating?"
"Four years," Sheng Chenjin replied.
"Four years?" Shi Jinsong knitted his brows. "That's quite a long time."
"I was only ten years old when I met Xinxin."
"Ten years old?" Shi Jinsong's eyes widened in shock.
"Yes," Sheng Chenjin looked at Shi Jinsong seriously. "So I want to marry Xinxin. Whether it's now or in the future, I will be responsible for Xinxin."
Shi Jinsong was silent for a moment before speaking slowly, "You and Xinxin have known each other for five years. I don't want this engagement banquet to ruin Xinxin's entire life."
"Don't worry, Xinxin will be happy," Sheng Chenjin said with certainty.
"Xinxin is a simple and kind girl. She isn't suitable for you," Shi Jinsong advised. "If you insist on marrying her, then we will sever our father-daughter relationship."
Sheng Chenjin's expression stiffened. "You..."
"This is the worst-case scenario."
Sheng Chenjin pondered for a long time, then nodded firmly. "Okay, I agree. I will move out with Xinxin as soon as possible."
"I believe you," Shi Jinsong patted Sheng Chenjin's shoulder with relief. "I have confidence in you."
"Thank you, Dad," Sheng Chenjin looked at Shi Jinsong gratefully. "Don't worry, I will treat Xinxin well and live up to your and Xinxin's mother's kindness to me."
"Mm," Shi Jinsong nodded with satisfaction. "The Shi Corporation now belongs to you and Xinxin. I'm tired."
"Dad, you've worked hard," Sheng Chenjin's gaze was gentle. "You should go rest."
Shi Jinsong waved his hand and turned to go inside.
Sheng Chenjin stood there, watching Shi Jinsong's aging back, lost in thought.
...
In Sheng Chenjin's office.
"Boss, this document needs your signature." Assistant Chen Hao handed a document to Sheng Chenjin.
Sheng Chenjin glanced at the document and looked up. "Assistant Chen, please find out about this person for me."
"Yes," Chen Hao respectfully took the document.
"And also, find out what connection this man has with the Shi family."
"Okay, Boss." Chen Hao responded. "Also, today is Saturday, and your schedule has been changed."
Sheng Chenjin raised an eyebrow. "Changed to what?"
"Today you are accompanying Miss Shi shopping," Chen Hao paused and added, "Miss Shi suggested it herself. Do you want to go?"
"Yes," Sheng Chenjin pursed his lips. "I'd like to see what other tricks she has up her sleeve."
"Yes."
Chen Hao turned and left the office.
Sheng Chenjin stared at the phone on the desk, recalling the conversation last night.
"Brother Sheng Chenjin, when are you coming to see me at school? I've been waiting all night, and you haven't come."
Sheng Chenjin's lips curved slightly, and he dialed a number.
"Hello, Brother Sheng Chenjin, are you looking for me?" When the call was answered, Shi Xinxin's sweet, soft voice came through.
"Xinxin, I remember you mentioned last time that you wanted to go on vacation to Bali, right?"
"Yes! It's a shame my dad is busy with work and doesn't have time to accompany me." Shi Xinxin sighed. "Sigh, my dad always dislikes me."
"Since that's the case, how about I accompany you?"
"Really?" Shi Xinxin was extremely excited. "That's great! Brother Sheng Chenjin, what time is your flight this afternoon?"
"Three o'clock in the afternoon."
"Wow, then we'll meet at the airport at three."
"Mm."
After hanging up, Sheng Chenjin stood up and walked towards the walk-in closet.
He changed into a black shirt and suit pants, paired with a tie, looking sharp and handsome.
Sheng Chenjin sat on the sofa, his long legs crossed elegantly, his eyes closed as if contemplating an important matter.
Knock knock knock—
A knock sounded at the door.
"Come in," Sheng Chenjin opened his eyes and looked at the office door.
"Mr. Sheng, the preparations for your honeymoon trip to Bali today are complete," the secretary said, walking up to Sheng Chenjin with coffee.
"Put the document down," Sheng Chenjin reached out, flipped through the document, and then signed it. "Proceed as planned. No need to tell Xinxin."
"Yes," the secretary exited the office.
Ding dong—
The desk phone rang.
Sheng Chenjin glanced at it. It was Sheng Jiaqi's number.
"A Jin, I heard you're going abroad today?" Sheng Jiaqi's charming voice came from the other end of the phone. "I happen to be returning to Paris for a design exhibition. I can give you a ride."
"Aren't you in France?" Sheng Chenjin was slightly taken aback.
"Yes. I'm in City A today, so I thought I'd send you to the airport. That way, we can spend a little more time together."
"No need to trouble yourself," Sheng Chenjin refused directly.