C46 Han Xue's Father's Persistence!
Across from Han Xue sat a handsome, middle-aged man with a gentle demeanor, his glasses framing his face. This was Han Shiyue, Han Xue's father. Yet, the furrow between his brows cast a shadow over his features, hinting at some inner turmoil.
"You rushed me to come back for this?" Han Shiyue's voice was deep with concern as he faced his daughter. "Is this what you wanted to discuss?"
With a grave look, Han Xue met her father's gaze. "Yes. You've seldom interfered in my life. I need to understand why you insist I avoid romance."
Before Han Shiyue could respond, Han Xue pressed on, "And don't try to distract me with talk of school. You know my grades have always been excellent."
Han Shiyue massaged the bridge of his nose, tilting his head back, eyes closed in contemplation. After a pause, he spoke deliberately, "You're still young, and your approach to love isn't mature yet. Wait until you're older to consider dating."
"I am grown up, and I'm clear about my feelings for him!"
Min Rou, Han Xue's mother, observed the differing stances of her husband and daughter. She interjected softly, "Shiyue, Xiao Xue is of age now. Given her academic performance, she could get into any university. Perhaps we could—"
With a dismissive gesture, Han Shiyue cut her off. "Enough! No matter what, I forbid Xiao Xue from dating! I will not allow her to be overly familiar with any boy!"
Realizing the futility of persuasion, Min Rou turned to her daughter with a resigned expression. "Xiao Xue, your father has a point. You've only just come of age. Love can wait. Maybe revisit it after university?"
Han Xue shook her head, fighting back tears. "But next year, we're moving abroad. Would you really let me stay behind in China alone?"
Min Rou faltered, her voice trailing off. The decision to move had been set in stone, and leaving Han Xue behind was out of the question.
"Dad, isn't there any other way? I don't want to live with regret."
A flicker of sorrow crossed Han Shiyue's face. He longed for his daughter to experience a perfect first love, but given Han Xue's circumstances, he steeled himself.
"No."
Tears finally escaped Han Xue's eyes. She couldn't grasp her father's unwavering disapproval of her love life. "I understand," she murmured. "I'm exhausted. I need to rest."
With that, Han Xue rose and retreated to her room.
Once alone, Min Rou moved closer to Han Shiyue, taking his hand in hers. "Shiyue, I can't fathom why you're so against Xiao Xue's romance. She's always been independent and mature for her age. She knows what she's doing."
Removing his glasses, Han Shiyue ran his hands through his hair, then leaned back on the couch with a heavy sigh.
"I'm aware, but I have my reasons."
After a moment of silence, Min Rou rested her head on his shoulder, whispering, "Don't fret. Xiao Xue will come to understand."
Han Shiyue nodded, the weight of his decision heavy on his heart. He thought to himself, "Xiao Xue, forgive me. I can only hope that destiny's guidance is true."
"Have someone look into this Ye Yu character."
As dawn broke, the first beam of sunlight crept into Ye Yu's room, rousing him from his deep sleep.
"Waking up in the morning and opening the window just puts me in such a good mood!"
Ye Yu stretched, opened the window, and took a deep breath of the fresh air, instantly feeling invigorated.
"Human Clan: Ye Yu (First Level Taoist)"
"Physique: Spirit Sword Body"
"Steals Remaining: 1"
"Avenue Value: 130/1000"
"Talents: Flying Sign Technique, Supercomputing, Master of Language"
"Cultivation Method: 36th Set of Radio Gymnastics"
"Items: Mantra Solution, Conan-style Glasses, Dragon Gate Jade Carvings, Fire Pearl"
"Lottery Draws: 0"
Noticing the updated count of steals in his mind, Ye Yu's mood lifted even further.
"Time to start stealing!"