Street-level turmoil, a clash of titans!

As the turmoil gradually subsided, Xiao Sheng, seeing how Yan Xiaonian had exhausted herself over the family crisis, felt a deep sense of tenderness. He decided to take her out to unwind and enjoy this hard-won moment of peace.

The two strolled along a bustling commercial street, where sunlight filtered through the gaps in the leaves, casting golden, dappled shadows on the ground. The shop windows were filled with exquisite goods, and a long-absent ease and joy flickered in Yan Xiaonian’s eyes. She would stop from time to time to admire the displays, excitedly pointing at a beautiful dress and saying to Xiao Sheng, "Look, the design of this dress is so unique. It would surely look lovely on." Xiao Sheng smiled and nodded, "If you like it, go in and try it on. As long as you’re happy."

Suddenly, Yan Xiaonian’s footsteps faltered as if she had been struck by a freezing spell; her gaze locked onto a tall, upright figure not far away. Xiao Sheng, watching her with doting eyes, sensed the change immediately. Following her line of sight, he saw a man in a high-end, tailored suit approaching. The man stood straight as a pine, his well-cut suit emphasizing his broad shoulders and narrow waist. Every movement exuded elegance, and the limited-edition Rolex on his wrist shimmered with subtle luxury in the sunlight. Accompanied by several assistants, he clearly hailed from a prominent background.

When the man’s eyes swept over Yan Xiaonian, he seemed struck by lightning. His pace halted abruptly, the polite smile on his face froze instantly, and his eyes flashed with complex, indescribable emotions. There was surprise, as if he had seen a phantom that shouldn't have appeared here, never expecting to run into her in such a setting. There was nostalgia, his gaze seemingly piercing through time to return to the moments he once spent with her, with scenes of their innocent first love flashing through his mind like a carousel. More than anything, there was an elusive sense of desolation, as if the most precious corner of his heart had been pried open, forcing him to face the reality that things were no longer what they used to be.

Xiao Sheng calmly tightened his grip on Yan Xiaonian’s hand, his palm broad and warm, transmitting strength as he asked in a low voice, "Xiaonian, who is this?" Yan Xiaonian bit her lip slightly, looking somewhat distressed, and whispered, "He... he is my first love, Lin Yuxuan." Xiao Sheng’s heart tightened as if gripped by an invisible hand, a trace of bitterness rising within him. Yet, he maintained his composure, though his eyes sharpened with vigilance, much like a protective beast sensing a potential threat.

Lin Yuxuan soon regained his composure and forced a smile, though it looked more painful than a frown, filled with strain and reluctance. "Xiaonian, it’s been a long time. I never expected to meet you here." Yan Xiaonian responded politely, "Yuxuan, it has indeed been a long time. How have you been?" As they exchanged brief pleasantries, Lin Yuxuan’s eyes occasionally drifted toward Xiao Sheng, filled with scrutiny and challenge, as if he were trying to see through the man who had taken Yan Xiaonian away. His gaze was evaluative, seemingly gauging what charm Xiao Sheng possessed to have captured her heart, while simultaneously harboring a touch of defiance, as if secretly competing with him and wondering in what way he was inferior to the man before him.

Xiao Sheng extended his hand politely, his tone calm. "Mr. Lin, a pleasure. I am Xiao Sheng, Xiaonian’s husband." Lin Yuxuan shook his hand with a firm, balanced grip, but the slight tremor in his fingertips betrayed the inner turmoil he felt. He replied, "I have long heard of your reputation, President Xiao. Seeing you today, your presence is truly remarkable." Yet, his eyes held a different meaning, as if to imply he saw nothing special about Xiao Sheng and was merely being perfunctory out of social obligation.

After a few empty pleasantries, Lin Yuxuan remarked with feigned nonchalance, "Xiaonian, I heard you suffered quite a bit of hardship recently. I was quite worried. If you encounter any difficulties, don't hesitate to ask." Yan Xiaonian subconsciously leaned toward Xiao Sheng, as if he were her safest harbor, and shook her head. "Thank you for your concern, but Xiao Sheng has handled everything for me. I am doing very well now." Xiao Sheng lifted his chin slightly, filled with pride, and pulled her closer, asserting his position.

Lin Yuxuan’s mouth curved downward slightly, a flash of resentment crossing his eyes before he quickly masked it. He continued, "That is good. After all, we go back a long way, and I hope you remain happy. Oh, by the way, President Xiao, I heard your company has undergone significant business adjustments recently. If you encounter any cash flow issues, perhaps the Lin family could be of assistance." This seemingly kind offer was actually sharp-edged, an underlying attempt to probe the Xiao family’s bottom line and see if they had been severely weakened by the recent crisis.

Xiao Sheng smiled faintly, his eyes filled with confidence and resolve. "I appreciate your kindness, Mr. Lin, but we will handle the affairs of the Xiao family ourselves. Everything is currently on the right track, so there is no need for you to worry." Lin Yuxuan had hit a soft wall; his expression darkened slightly, but he maintained his outward composure. However, his clenched fists betrayed his emotions, his knuckles turning white from the pressure, revealing his inner frustration and anger.

Passersby moved to and fro, some rushing, some strolling leisurely, unaware that behind this casual street encounter lay a hidden, turbulent battle between powerful families. Caught in the middle, Yan Xiaonian felt a bit awkward and tugged gently at Xiao Sheng’s sleeve, signaling that she wanted to leave. Xiao Sheng understood immediately and smiled at Lin Yuxuan. "Mr. Lin, if there is nothing else, we shall continue our walk. We still have many places to visit." With that, he led Yan Xiaonian away with steady steps.

Lin Yuxuan stood where he was, watching their retreating figures, his eyes filled with complex emotions—recollections of the past and resentment toward the present. After a long moment, he finally turned and left with his assistants. This unexpected meeting was like a small stone cast into a calm lake; though it did not stir up giant waves, it made Xiao Sheng realize that Yan Xiaonian’s past might become a handle for others to use. To protect his family in the future, he would need to be even more cautious.