Kapitel 10: She’s promising

The day had arrived for them to see Mo Ran's grandparents, and the mansion buzzed with a quiet preparation. Lixue stood in front of the full-length mirror in her room, her breath catching at her own reflection.

The gown was exquisite—a masterpiece of pale blue fabric that shimmered faintly as she moved, catching the golden light streaming through the windows. The intricate lace and embroidery wove delicate patterns across the fabric, reminiscent of frost on a winter morning. Each thread seemed to hold a life of its own, glimmering with the faintest touch of moonlight.

The train flowed behind her like a soft cascade of water, its breathtaking length adorned with lacework as delicate as snowflakes. The structured bodice hugged her frame perfectly, lending her an air of elegance and quiet authority. Her shoulders, left bare by the design, rose gracefully above the gown, their soft curve adding to her understated allure.

A delicate overlay framed her back, tied with satin ribbons that emphasized her slender figure. At the center of the design, a jeweled bird mid-flight sparkled brilliantly, its wings poised as though it might soar into the sky at any moment.

Her hair was swept into a sleek updo, strands perfectly arranged to frame her delicate features. Nestled within the folds of her hair was a glittering headpiece that sparkled like starlight, completing the ensemble with a regal touch.

Mo Ran entered the room just as Lixue adjusted the final folds of her train. He paused in the doorway, his dark eyes narrowing slightly as they scanned her from head to toe. For a moment, his expression was unreadable before his lips curved into a faint, approving smile.

"You look…" His voice trailed off as he approached her, his tone softer than usual. "Like you belong in a museum. A piece of art meant to be admired but never touched. Only by me though."

Lixue glanced at him through the mirror, her own expression carefully composed, though a faint blush rose to her cheeks. "Is that your way of giving me a compliment?"

He stepped closer, his hand brushing against the edge of her train. "Perhaps," he said softly, his voice carrying a teasing lilt. "Though you look too perfect to be real, Lixue. My grandparents will be charmed."

She turned to face him, her bare shoulders catching the light. "And you? Are you charmed?"

Mo Ran's smirk deepened, and his gaze locked with hers. "I think I might be," he replied smoothly, his tone hinting at something she couldn't quite place.

Lixue cleared her throat, breaking eye contact. "Let's hope your grandparents have better manners than you do," she said lightly, trying to mask the warmth creeping up her neck.

Mo Ran chuckled, extending his arm. "Shall we go? They're waiting for us. And Lixue?"

She hesitated, her hand resting on his arm as she looked up at him. "Yes?"

"Don't let them intimidate you," he said, his voice dropping slightly. "You belong here as much as anyone."

When they arrived at Mo Ran's grandparents' mansion, the grandeur of the estate left Lixue momentarily speechless. The towering gates, adorned with intricate wrought-iron designs, swung open to reveal a sprawling landscape of manicured gardens and fountains. The mansion itself stood like a testament to old-world aristocracy, its stately architecture blending British elegance with a touch of royal opulence.

Inside, the grand hall seemed endless, its polished marble floors gleaming faintly in the soft glow of ornate chandeliers. The walls were lined with portraits of generations past, their piercing eyes watching over the room with an air of timeless pride.

As Lixue stepped into the hall, her gown seemed to come alive in the light, the pale blue fabric glimmering with every movement. The intricate embroidery and lacework shimmered subtly, drawing the eyes of everyone present.

The rustle of her train against the marble floor echoed faintly as she approached the center of the room, her head held high. Despite the subtle tension in her posture, she exuded quiet grace, her every step poised and deliberate.

Mo Ran's grandparents stood at the far end of the hall, their aristocratic demeanor unmistakable. His grandfather, tall and imposing, had a regal bearing that commanded respect with every gesture. His grandmother, a vision of elegance in her finely tailored gown, carried herself with a natural grace, her sharp blue eyes taking in Lixue with an intensity that was both intimidating and approving.

Mo Ran leaned toward her as they walked, his voice low and teasing. "Don't let their stares unnerve you. They're judging you already."

Lixue shot him a sidelong glance, her lips curving into a faint, defiant smile. "Let them. I'll give them something worth judging."

As they reached the center of the hall, the soft strains of music began to fill the air—a waltz, slow and deliberate, echoing through the grand space. Mo Ran stepped forward, bowing slightly toward his grandparents before turning to Lixue, his hand outstretched.

"Shall we?" he asked, his dark eyes gleaming with challenge.

Lixue hesitated only for a moment before placing her hand in his. "Let's."

When the music slowed to a graceful halt, they came to a stop in the center of the room, drawing polite applause from the few onlookers. Mo Ran's grandparents, standing at the far end of the hall, exchanged knowing looks before stepping forward.

His grandmother was the first to speak, her sharp blue eyes appraising Lixue. "A fine performance," she said, her accent crisp and refined. "Tell me, young lady, is this your first time waltzing in a formal setting?"

Lixue straightened, meeting her gaze with quiet confidence. "I've had a few lessons recently, ma'am. But I wouldn't call myself an expert."

The older woman's lips curved into a small smile, her approval subtle but evident. "You carry yourself well. The dress complements you, and your demeanor is… promising."

Mo Ran's grandfather, tall and imposing, studied Lixue in silence for a moment before finally speaking. "Grace on the dance floor is one thing. Grace in life is another. Are you prepared for the expectations this family places on you?"

Lixue met his piercing gaze without faltering. "I understand the weight of responsibility, sir, and I'll do my best to honor it."

The older man's expression remained impassive, but there was a faint glimmer of acknowledgment in his eyes.

Mo Ran stepped forward slightly, his voice smooth and confident. "She doesn't just honor responsibility. She rises above it. Lixue is more than capable of meeting our family's standards—and exceeding them."

His grandmother raised an eyebrow at his uncharacteristic praise, her sharp eyes flicking between them. "Well, it seems your husband has every confidence in you. That's a good start."

Lixue inclined her head respectfully. "Thank you, ma'am. I hope to continue proving myself worthy."

The room seemed to hold its breath for a moment before Mo Ran's grandfather nodded slightly. "We'll see," he said simply, turning to lead his wife away.

As they retreated, Mo Ran leaned toward Lixue, his tone low and amused. "Not bad, Mrs. Mo. They're already impressed."

She glanced at him, her lips curving into a faint smile. "You don't know that. They're just polite."

He smirked, his dark eyes gleaming. "I know them better than you think. And I also know you'll surprise them."

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