C20 On the Day of Her Birthday

Since Lin Qingwan reclaimed the imperial jade from the Lan Family, she had been pondering what to carve it into as a birthday gift for Old Master Gu. She hoped that by delighting him with the gift, he would consent to her returning to school.

Knowing Old Master Gu's fondness for his own landscape paintings, Lin Qingwan imagined his joy if that very scene could be etched into jade, especially by the master sculptor he so admired.

After leaving Old Master Gu's study, Lin Qingwan reached out to Aofeng. They met in a nearby park, where she handed over the landscape painting and the imperial jade, instructing him to quickly find the reclusive master sculptor and expedite the carving process.

With everything arranged, Lin Qingwan made her way back to the Ming Residence, Gu Mingfeng's home. He had already departed for the office.

As she was about to ascend the stairs, she noticed Gu Na lingering at her bedroom door.

"Qingwan, where have you been? I couldn't find you anywhere," Gu Na inquired.

"Just out for a walk," Lin Qingwan replied with a faint smile. "Is there something you needed?"

Gu Na linked arms with Lin Qingwan in a show of affection. "Weren't we supposed to discuss grandpa's birthday gift? How could you forget?"

Despite knowing Gu Na's ulterior motives, Lin Qingwan opened her bedroom door, continuing to play the fool to avoid raising any suspicions about her true identity.

Settling into the sofa, Gu Na probed with a hint of intrigue, "Qingwan, what do you think we should get for grandpa's birthday? I'm at a loss, and unlike you, I don't have a host of friends to invite over to celebrate with him."

"Friends?" Lin Qingwan looked up, curious.

"Yes, all those celebrity friends of yours," Gu Na continued. "Each one is so talented. Imagine how festive it would be if they could come and perform for his birthday."

Gu Na watched Lin Qingwan closely, noting her contemplative expression. She was pleased, thinking she had swayed the naive girl. Gu Na was well aware that Lin Qingwan's acquaintances were mostly handsome young men, whom the Old Master had previously preferred she avoid. Inviting them to the birthday banquet would surely infuriate him.

"So, what do you think of my suggestion, Qingwan?" Gu Na asked, feigning innocence.

Lin Qingwan pondered for a moment before exclaiming with joy, "That's a great idea, really great. Let's go with that. I'll invite a friend to wish Grandpa a happy birthday."

Gu Na could barely contain her laughter as she watched Lin Qingwan take the bait. She quickly interjected, "Remember, Qingwan, this was all your own doing. I didn't say a word. So if Grandpa commends you, there's no need to bring me up!"

"Of course," Lin Qingwan asserted confidently. "It was my idea after all. If Grandpa offers praise, it will be for me and me alone."

Internally, Gu Na scoffed at Lin Qingwan's naivety, made an excuse, and left. She was already eagerly anticipating Old Master Gu's birthday and the prospect of Lin Qingwan facing criticism.

Once alone, Lin Qingwan's smile swiftly faded. She was well aware of Gu Na's malicious intentions, but she intended to follow through with her plan to have a performer from the entertainment industry honor Old Master Gu.

But she would steer clear of any heartthrobs; that would only irritate Old Master Gu.

She dialed Aofeng, her voice firm and authoritative, "Reach out to a distinguished elder artist in the capital, someone from Old Master Gu's era. Each piece of work must be iconic and to Old Master Gu's liking."

Old Master Gu had his youthful days too, with a fondness for many timeless films and TV shows. It's only human.

If she could bring these veteran artists together to help Old Master Gu revisit those days, it would surely move him deeply.

Aofeng took Lin Qingwan's directive seriously and, after thorough research, dispatched agents to every province and city within the empire...

Everything was unfolding smoothly. The Gu Family had all their gifts ready for Old Master Gu. Gu Na had spared no expense on a renowned Tang Bo Hu painting, knowing Old Master Gu's appreciation for fine arts and aiming to please.

Before long, the day of Old Master Gu's birthday arrived.

The Gu family estate was abuzz with guests from various sectors—business, military, media, and even delegates from the other eight prominent families. The atmosphere was lively and festive, with everyone in high spirits.

Old Master Gu occupied the place of honor in the living room, graciously nodding to the guests who arrived to celebrate his birthday, while instructing his butler, Uncle Zhou, to collect their gifts.

The Gu family's younger generations were all assembled in the living room. Gu Mingfeng glanced at his watch repeatedly, his brow furrowed with concern. Lin Qingwan had left early in the morning, citing urgent matters, and had yet to return, which only added to the chill of his demeanor.

Soon, the entire Gu family had arrived, with the sole exception of Lin Qingwan.

Old Master Gu took note of her absence and inquired, "Mingfeng, where is Qingwan?"

Before Gu Mingfeng could respond, Gu Na rose to her feet and reassured him, "Grandfather, there's no need to worry. I know where Qingwan has gone. She's gone to fetch her friends from the entertainment industry, hoping to bring everyone together for a joyous celebration."

Upon hearing this, the old man's expression soured. Everyone was well aware of the questionable reputation of Lin Qingwan's acquaintances. Inviting these disreputable actors to the event was preposterous, wasn't it?

Just as Gu Na's words hung in the air, a servant ushered in a group of spirited, elderly gentlemen, each exuding an air of distinguished vitality.

Old Master Gu rose to his feet, a mix of surprise and elation on his face. He recognized them instantly—they were venerable artists of his era, whose classic performances were etched in his memory.

The artists lined up on either side of the hall, seemingly in anticipation of someone's arrival.

At that moment, Lin Qingwan entered, carrying a plate draped with red cloth. She knelt down and presented it, saying, "Grandfather, Qingwan has brought friends to extend their birthday wishes. May your fortune be as vast as the Eastern Sea and your lifespan as enduring as Mount Nanshan."

No sooner had she finished than the esteemed artists, previously standing at attention, turned to face Old Master Gu. With a coordinated gesture, they bowed and declared in unison, "We, too, wish Old Master Gu a joyous birthday!"