Chapter 183: Sun Family Banquet (2)
Grandpa Sun, with a smile that radiated happiness, descended the staircase, his cane clicking on the tiled floor. The guests rose to their feet, applauding as he gracefully made his way to the stage. The music softened, and with the microphone in hand, Grandpa Sun addressed the audience, "Good evening, everyone. First, I would like to express my gratitude to all of you who honored your invitations and joined us in celebrating this special day."
Applause rippled through the room once more, and Grandpa Sun continued, "As most of you know, years ago, my family faced a great tragedy. Our daughter, the sole girl born into the Sun family in a century, went missing. We searched for decades, tirelessly looking until we had to accept the possibility that we might never find her. This took a toll on my wife—may her soul rest in peace. She endured many sleepless nights until her passing. But tonight, we are gathered here to welcome the Sun Family Princess back home."
The guests erupted in applause, joy evident on their faces at the heartening news. Grandpa Sun pressed on, "I must admit, I had given up the search when my wife passed away. However, Sun Weilong never stopped looking for his sister. Eventually, my grandson, Sun Fang, brought us remarkable news. It’s a moment I will never forget." The air buzzed with anticipation and curiosity as the banquet unfolded, revealing layers of family history and emotions.
Grandpa Sun’s voice resonated with emotion as he continued, "From the first moment I laid eyes on her, I knew she was my daughter. I didn’t need DNA confirmation; I just knew. And for those who knew my wife, you’ll agree that she is the exact copy of her. I was overjoyed to learn that she had a happy childhood, got married, and even gave birth to twins—two boys, bringing more joy into my heart. Although, I wouldn’t have minded if they were granddaughters instead."
The crowd chuckled warmly, enjoying Grandpa Sun’s heartfelt sentiments. He playfully added, "Now, for the moment you’ve all been waiting for."
The exclusive group of reporters, armed with their cameras, eagerly captured the anticipated revelation. The entire room buzzed with anticipation as everyone awaited the grand reveal of the long-lost Sun Family Princess, adding an air of mystery and excitement to the celebratory atmosphere.
Grandpa Sun’s voice filled the hall with pride and joy as he declared, "Everyone, welcome home our only princess, Sun Lixia!" The room buzzed with excitement as guests turned their attention to the stairs, eager to catch a glimpse of the long-awaited family member.
To everyone’s surprise, Sun Lixia gracefully stood up from a table at the far back. She moved with elegance and poise as she walked towards the stage, where Grandpa Sun awaited. The guests watched in awe as Sun Lixia approached the stage, radiating a regal aura.
Upon reaching the stage, Sun Lixia embraced Grandpa Sun in a warm and heartfelt hug. Grandpa Sun, beaming with happiness, encouraged the audience, saying, "Let’s clap our hands for the Sun Family Princess, Sun Lixia!" The room erupted in applause, and Sun Lixia stood there with a serene smile, soaking in the warmth and welcome from her family and the gathered guests. Reporters, capturing the historic moment, clicked away to preserve the occasion in photographs.
The whispers and gossip among the guests continued as Sun Lixia stood on stage. Jiang Xiaofeng and Gu Hua exchanged glances, both recognizing Sun Lixia as Li Chen’s supposed "sugar mama." Gu Liang overheard the conversation and informed Madame Gu about the connection, leading to disdainful remarks about Li Chen being a leech.
Meanwhile, on stage, Grandpa Sun, still overwhelmed with emotion, continued his announcement. "I am sure you remember I said, my daughter here has two boys," he shared, building anticipation in the room. "Please welcome my two grandsons on stage, Li Chen and Li Xinjie."
The spotlight shifted to Li Chen and Li Xinjie, who walked onto the stage with a confident stride. The applause from the guests, though mixed with curiosity and judgment, filled the hall. The brothers stood proudly beside their newly reunited family, ready to face the scrutiny that came with their presence in the Sun family celebration. The grand unveiling continued, with the Sun family’s complex dynamics becoming more apparent with each passing moment.
As the truth unfolded on stage, the shock rippled through the audience. Li Chen and Li Xinjie, now standing proudly beside their mother Sun Lixia, erased any doubts about their connection. The realization struck those who had assumed Sun Lixia was merely Li Chen’s "sugar mama." The physical resemblance between Sun Lixia and Li Chen was undeniable, leaving onlookers in awe.
The Gu family, especially Gu Hua, was caught in a whirlwind of confusion and regret. The revelation challenged their preconceived notions about Li Chen’s background. Gu Hua, who had been outspoken in his disdain for Li Chen, now regretted every insult he had hurled. He feared potential consequences and wondered if the Sun family would seek retribution.
Similarly, Jiang Xiaofeng, who had taken extreme measures against Li Chen, including hiring assassins, was now confronted with the possibility of retaliation. Li Chen’s newfound identity had transformed the perception of those who had belittled him. The atmosphere in the room shifted, leaving an undercurrent of tension as the guests grappled with the unexpected turn of events.
"Now, I will allow my daughter to give a few words before the festivities continue," announced Grandpa Sun. Sun Lixia stepped up to the microphone, saying, "Wow, feels good to be home... Good evening, everyone, and thank you all for coming to celebrate this day. First, I would like to thank my brother Sun Weilong and nephew Sun Fang for never quitting."
She continued, "I know some may ask how my life was then. I would be lying if I said my childhood was not a happy one. The person who raised me gave me love until I got married. And, of course, I have to thank my sister-in-law for the love she gave me after losing my husband. Everyone, please give my wonderful sister-in-law a round of applause."
The crowd erupted in applause, appreciating the heartfelt acknowledgment. The spotlight shifted to Li Yanyan, who stood gracefully, bowed, and then returned to her seat. The room was filled with a mix of emotions, from joy to admiration for the Sun family’s resilience and unity. The long-lost princess had returned, bringing warmth and gratitude to the hearts of those in attendance.
As the entire crowd erupted in applause, Madame Gu found herself stunned beyond words. Her gaze shifted between Li Chen and Li Yanyan, realizing for the first time that they shared a surname. However, the surname Li was common, and she hadn’t considered any connection between them. Then, the realization struck her: Li Yanyan’s return wasn’t solely about the past but had a direct link to Li Chen. Li Yanyan was seeking revenge for everything they had done to Li Chen.
A wave of anxiety washed over Madame Gu, beads of sweat forming on her back. She contemplated how far Li Yanyan would go for her brother’s son. Madame Gu regretted all the mistreatment they had subjected Li Chen to. In that moment, she wished she could turn back time and treat him better. If only Gu Liang and Li Chen had been happily married, perhaps Li Yanyan wouldn’t be seeking retribution.
Feeling the weight of her actions, Madame Gu wished the ground could open up and swallow her whole. The banquet, which she had anticipated with excitement, now unfolded with horrifying revelations she had never expected. The atmosphere became charged with tension and regret, as the past actions of Madame Gu and her family came back to haunt them in unexpected ways.
