Qin Churan's sharp question pierced the living room's harmonious atmosphere like a needle.
The air suddenly grew tense.
Qin Feng's playful grin froze.
Xia Yuwei's gracious smile quietly faded as well.
Qin Changjiang set down his purple clay teacup. Its base struck the table with a muted thud, neither loud nor soft, yet everyone's heart skipped a beat.
Every gaze swung toward Qin Churan and Chen Lin.
Before Chen Lin could speak-
"Qin Churan!"
An angry, urgent cry rang out first.
Like an enraged young lioness, Qin Chuxia flung her arms wide and planted herself firmly in front of Chen Lin.
She tilted her face up and glared at her cousin, her beautiful, wide eyes practically spitting fire.
"What are you trying to do? This is the Qin family home! Chen Lin isn't your prisoner!"
Normally, she was a little intimidated by her imposing cousin, but whenever Chen Lin was involved, she forgot what fear even meant.
As Qin Churan looked at the younger cousin blocking her path, a crack finally appeared in her icy expression.
She had never expected Qin Chuxia to be the first person to jump up and challenge her.
"Chuxia, move aside."
Her voice remained cold.
"This is official business."
"I don't care whether it's official or personal!" Qin Chuxia refused to budge, her neck stiff with defiance. "Chen Lin is our guest! He saved my life! What gives you the right to talk to him like you're interrogating a criminal?"
Just then, an authoritative male voice spoke.
"Chu Ran."
Qin Changjiang's voice was quiet, but it carried considerable weight.
"Where are your manners?"
Qin Churan stiffened and turned toward her third uncle.
There was no sign of anger or pleasure on Qin Changjiang's face, but the gaze of a man long accustomed to authority exerted