Looking at Father Su’s expressionless face, the Song family aunt felt a pang of sadness and whispered, "So many years have passed, and you’re still like this. I thought..." Her voice trembled slightly, her eyes filled with disappointment. She had hoped that time would soften everything and that their reunion might lead to a different outcome. Yet, Father Su’s coldness hit her like a bucket of cold water, extinguishing the flicker of hope that had just ignited in her heart.
Father Su looked at her, his tone flat and unreadable. "Today is my daughter’s birthday, and I just want her to have a wonderful day. We can discuss other matters another time." He did not let his gaze linger on Song Jiayu, quickly looking away and turning toward Su Li, who was conversing with guests, as if deliberately trying to escape something. His straight back and hurried steps betrayed his internal conflict. Though he feigned composure, the way his fists tightened involuntarily revealed the complex emotions he was suppressing.
Song Haochen stood chatting with Shen Ye, though his eyes remained on his aunt. He understood the depth of her feelings and the difficulty of her situation, but he could only watch in silence. Upon hearing Father Su’s words, Song Jiayu said nothing more and turned back to her seat. Her silhouette appeared forlorn; the disappointment mingling with her lingering expectations left her enveloped in a faint, sorrowful air.
Chapter 243