The black Bentley Bentayga cruised smoothly along the provincial highway back to Chen Family Village, the silence inside almost oppressive.
Exhausted by a full day of emotional upheaval, Li Jiaojiao had fallen fast asleep against her mother Chen Muyao's shoulder.
Chen Muyao watched the nighttime scenery race backward outside the window. The city's dazzling lights gradually gave way to the darkness of the countryside, with a few stars twinkling here and there.
In her eyes, the bewilderment and conflicting emotions stirred by the devastating news were slowly giving way to a calm that felt like a new beginning.
"Xiao Lin..." Chen Muyao spoke softly, breaking the silence inside the car.
Her voice was hoarse from crying, yet trembled with relief. "Thank you... for today. If it weren't for you, I really wouldn't know how to live out the rest of my life."
Her gratitude came from the heart. If her nephew hadn't acted with such decisive force to sever her rotten fifteen-year marriage, she might have remained trapped in that mire for the rest of her life, belittled and humiliated until the mistress perhaps truly took her place.
Through the rearview mirror, Chen Lin looked at his youngest aunt's face. Though haggard, she looked noticeably more relaxed, and a warm smile curved his lips.
His tone was firm, as though stating an indisputable fact. "Auntie, we're family. There's no need to thank me. From now on, you and Jiaojiao can settle down in the village without worrying. As long as I'm here, the sky won't fall."
Chen Muyao felt reassured.
Yes, she was no longer alone and helpless. She had her nephew to lean on.
When they returned to the Farmhouse Courtyard, the warm light spilling from the house instantly dispelled the night's chill.
Chen Lin parked the car and