This should have been something to celebrate, yet for some reason, Shen Lin caught a trace of unmistakable gloom and dejection on Ji Yanzhi's face, as though a lump of lead weighed on his heart.
He wondered if he was overthinking it. But the moment Ji Ting helped the old man through the door, Ji Yanzhi's reaction confirmed his suspicions.
Ji Ting had barely entered the foyer when Ji Yanzhi abruptly rose from the sofa, his voice tight. "Ji Ear."
Ji Ting seemed about to say something, but Old Mr. Shen cheerfully cut him off. "Perfect timing! We're having stewed ribs for lunch. You two brothers should stay and eat with us."
"Thank you, Grandpa Shen." Ji Yanzhi sounded decisive, his expression apologetic yet leaving no room for argument. "But something's come up at home, so we need to leave now. We'll make a special trip to visit you another day."
And just like that, Ji Ting was ushered out of the Shen Family home, half hurried along and half pulled by Ji Yanzhi, without getting the chance to ask a single question.
When they reached the car, Ji Yanzhi pulled the door open rather roughly, then slammed it shut with a bang. Ji Ting had only just settled into his seat when he keenly picked up on the movement from the driver's seat beside him.
Ji Yanzhi's chest heaved sharply, as though he was trying to force all his churning emotions back down. Yet the instant he exhaled, his restless agitation slipped out.
Ji Ting understood almost at once: Ji Yanzhi was angry. Very angry.
In the cramped confines of the car, the air felt thick enough to touch. Ji Yanzhi gripped the steering wheel tightly with both hands, his knuckles pale, his chest still rising and falling in