Having decided to spend his university years in Shenzhen, Mei Fang—despite his public fame—knew this life-changing decision warranted informing his parents.

Lately, he’d been avoiding calls with his mother, Xiang Xiaoxia, knowing she’d inevitably scold him.

“Fudan University is clearly better than Pengcheng University. Why settle for less?”

“Pengcheng’s computer science program is stronger, and it aligns better with our company’s future. Being Pony Ma’s junior means Tencent’s backing—”

“What does Youxi think? Is she willing to go?”

“She’s coming with me.”

“Youxi could’ve gotten into Tsinghua or Peking University before getting involved with you. Now she has to compromise for your convenience—you’re holding her back!”

She’s literally C-Site’s “Big Miss” now—how is that “holding her back”? Mei Fang bit his tongue.

After berating him, Xiang Xiaoxia paused. “Or… are you choosing Pengcheng University so YuanYuan can join too?”

“That’s part of it. Pengcheng offers us flexibility Fudan won’t.”

His answer softened her tone—clearly, this meant he and Xia Yuan had parted amicably but remained close.

“And Youxi’s okay with this?”

“Mom, you talk like you don’t know them at all.”

“Fine. As long as you three have it figured out.”

Though she disliked the idea of her son distancing from Xia Yuan, Lin Youxi was now his official girlfriend. Had she objected, Xiang Xiaoxia would’ve urged Mei Fang to prioritize his relationship.

“Also, Mom… we’re buying a place in Shenzhen.”

“What?! Have you lost your mind? Shenzhen’s housing prices are insane!”

“It’s 2013—still affordable.”

“Taking out loans? Can your company handle that? Don’t overextend yourself.”

“Do you ever read news about my company?” Mei Fang sighed.

“All that internet jargon might as well be Greek to me.” Despite her grumbling, pride tinged her voice. “Consult Uncle Xia first—your dad says he owns several properties in big cities.”

Since when did YuanYuan’s dad have real estate ventures? “I’ll ask him.”

“Are you two… on good terms?”

“Mm… decent. I try not to bother him.”

“You and YuanYuan ended things civilly. Don’t overthink it.”

“I know…”

“New Year’s is coming up. Since you’re not cramming for exams, will you visit?”

“Probably not… We’re comfortable here.”

As they spoke, Lin Youxi brought a steaming pot of lamb soup to the table. Mei Fang couldn’t resist bragging: “Youxi made lamb soup! Smells amazing—slurp—”

“You little brat! Living the high life, huh? Better treat her right!” Her scolding carried unmistakable delight.

Lin Youxi perched on Mei Fang’s lap, leaning toward the phone: “Aunt Xiang, why don’t you visit Jiangchenn for New Year’s? We’d love to host you, Uncle Mei, and Xiaoya!”

“Hmm… we haven’t seen you kids in ages.” A pause. “Why not invite your parents too?”

“Dad’s touring Sanya with Mom. It’s warmer there…”

Since Lin Guochuan began prioritizing health per his daughter’s advice, he’d been making up for lost time with his wife, Liang Meijuan. Motorcycle enthusiasts in their youth, responsibilities had long stifled their wanderlust. Now, with their daughter thriving under Mei Fang’s care, they’d embraced travel with gusto—barely home in months.

“I see… Well, another time then.”

Xia Yuan bounded into the room, snatching the phone: “Aunt Xiang! Long time no talk!”

“YuanYuan! How are you?”

“Great! Just chilly at night…” She shot Mei Fang a playful glance. “Heard you’re visiting for New Year’s?”

“Thinking about it. Why?”

“I actually invited my parents too… Hope that’s okay?”

“O-Of course!” Xiang Xiaoxia’s chuckle strained slightly. “We’ve known Teacher Yu and your dad for years. You and Ah Fang are still close—why would we mind?”

“Perfect! I’ll book a resort—hot springs, skiing, the works!”

After hanging up, Xiang Xiaoxia stared blankly at the phone.

Since when do ex-girlfriends act this chummy with their ex’s mom?

Her musings were interrupted by her husband and daughter’s starry-eyed anticipation.

“Wife! Are we finally staying at a luxury hot spring resort?!”

“I wanna ski!—Wait, no! I miss Youxi-jie and YuanYuan-jie!”

Xiang Xiaoxia rolled her eyes. “Of course this gets you excited.”

Mei Lijun puffed out his chest. “I’ve lived modestly to avoid gossip. Now that our son’s successful—without my help—why shouldn’t I enjoy it?”

“Shouldn’t fathers give their sons advantages? Not mooch off them?”

“Mooch? Pah!” His face remained shamelessly unrepentant. “His achievements reflect my parenting. I’ve earned this!”

Mei Ya chimed in: “Exactly! My essay ‘My Brother Is C-Site’s CEO’ won first prize! Everyone else wrote boring ‘My Official Father’ stuff.”

“Since when do essay titles exceed seven words? But yes, you’ve benefited plenty from him. Back when—”

“—back when you only had me because Brother won the lottery, right?” Mei Ya teased.

Xiang Xiaoxia swatted both their heads, exasperated yet fond. “You two… truly cut from the same cloth.”