Call... uncle?

In the living room, Si Qingchen was always patient; since he had come here, he was certain he would eventually see the little one who occupied his thoughts. That little girl, whom he had met only once, was like a fishhook that had caught and held a corner of his heart. The moment he heard she had been injured during the competition, he could hardly wait to care for her and check her wounds. Fortunately, Si Nan reminded him in time—not to act too impulsively and risk losing the greater for the lesser.

Si Qingchen carefully recalled his every reaction upon seeing Mu Qingcheng and suddenly gained a new understanding, sensing something he had not before. Regarding this little girl, it seemed... he would need to proceed with patience and careful consideration.

On this side, Old Master Mu and Si Qingchen were engaged in a casual conversation, touching on matters of state and weighty topics. At that moment, Old Master Mu once again felt the uncommon nature of Si Qingchen—his clarity and insight were rare among young men of his age. His appreciation for him grew even more.

‘What a pity, though, that the child’s age and seniority are both somewhat too great,’ Old Master Mu sighed inwardly. Before long, two young ladies emerged from the dining room, one after the other.

Ran Siya walked with pride, embodying the demeanor of a wealthy heiress. Mu Qingcheng followed quietly behind, keeping a low profile without any sign of contention.

Si Qingchen set down his teacup, straightened his back, and subtly adjusted his posture, betraying nothing. This movement was noticed by Si Nan and Si Bei, who exchanged a glance at the doorway, as if silently saying, ‘Look at him—not even a hint of restraint, nothing like his usual self.’

Meanwhile, Old Master Mu beckoned to the two girls and said, “Come, greet our guest. This is the eldest son of the Si family, Si Qingchen. Qingchen, you are...”

“Thirty, at the age of establishment,” Si Qingchen replied.

“Oh,” Old Master Mu nodded thoughtfully, pondering how to introduce him properly. Unexpectedly, Ran Siya, ever eager, lifted her face into what she believed was a perfect smile, seized the opportunity, and stepped forward briskly. She stopped directly opposite Si Qingchen and greeted him in a clear voice, “Hello, Uncle Si.”

Everyone: “......”

The room instantly fell silent, awkwardness spreading like a mist. Disbelieving gazes converged on Ran Siya, and even Old Master Mu looked at her in embarrassment, uncertain what to do.

Just then—

“Pfft...” Mu Qingcheng could not help herself and burst out laughing. All eyes shifted to her.

“Ahem, sorry, I didn’t mean to,” Mu Qingcheng covered her lips and coughed lightly, doing her best to suppress the laughter still bubbling within her.

As she instinctively looked across the room, her gaze collided with Si Qingchen’s deep, enigmatic eyes.

Thump—a sudden jolt struck her heart, sending a tremor through her entire being as if electrified. She couldn’t help but frown slightly, and at that moment, she saw Si Qingchen stand up.

Everyone: “......”

Only Si Nan at the doorway whispered with excitement, “Go on, boss, go! Now’s your chance!”

Si Bei: “......”

On this side, Mu Qingcheng stood dazed, watching as Si Qingchen, tall and upright, walked toward her step by step. His gaze was intense and unrestrained, fixed squarely upon her. Mu Qingcheng grew increasingly nervous, her palms damp with sweat. It had been years since she had faced such a situation. She was flustered, unable to compose herself, her body stiff and her breath out of rhythm.

Si Qingchen approached gracefully, stopping just a step away from her. He lowered his head slightly, bending close, his voice low and gentle, with a hint of a smile as he spoke,

“Qingcheng, how should you address me?”

Mu Qingcheng: “......” Call him uncle?