บท 41: Reconciled

Mrs. Qi waited patiently by her husband's side, watching as he slowly emerged from his melancholy state. They were about to enter the mansion—his father's home—after five long years. 

She was relieved, sensing that her husband was finally willing to relent, to set aside his stubborn pride. This visit had been a source of tension for so long, and now there seemed to be a chance for reconciliation.

Though Mrs. Qi knew that what had transpired five years ago was never truly her husband's fault, the thought of severing the bond between father and son had always troubled her. She had tried to persuade him many times before but had only been met with sharp reprimands.

"Are you okay?" she asked softly, her voice laced with concern as her eyes sought his.

Mr. Qi took a deep breath, offering a faint smile, though the strain in his face was still apparent. "I'm fine. Just a little nervous."