422: Meeting the parents

Meeting the parents

Qiao Chen spoke up, his voice filled with empathy, "Qing Qing, we know how much you care for Jia Yuze, and we understand your worries. But remember, you're strong and capable. We'll be here for you, no matter what happens."1

Xia Ling nodded in agreement, her eyes conveying a mixture of pride and concern, "We've seen how you've grown and faced challenges head-on. This day would come sometime, and we can't run away from it. Let destiny guide us."

Tears welled up in Qiao Qing's eyes as she looked around at her family, her heart touched by their unwavering support. She realized that while the future was uncertain, the love and strength of her family would be a constant source of comfort.

As the Qiao family gathered together, their hands linked in a silent show of unity, they knew that whatever the future held, they would face it together. With hearts intertwined, they left their worries to the hands of destiny. 

The sun rose on a new day, casting its warm glow over the city. Qiao Qing's home buzzed with a mixture of excitement and nervous energy as Jia Yuze arrived to take her to his parents' house. Qiao Qing stood at the doorstep, her family by her side, their expressions a blend of pride, hope, and concern.

Noticing the concern in Qiao Qing's parents' eyes, Jia Yuze assured them, "Uncle Qiao, Auntie Xia, I know what you are concerned about. But trust me, I promise you that I will take good care of your precious daughter." 

Qiao Dong stepped forward, his handshake firm and filled with a father's protective concern, "Jia Yuze, we trust you to look after our daughter. We appreciate your honesty and dedication."

Jia Yuze nodded respectfully, "Thank you, Uncle Qiao. I understand the significance of today, and I want you to know that I genuinely care for Qiao Qing."

Xia Ling's eyes reflected a mother's worry and love, "Please make sure she's comfortable, Yuze."

Jia Yuze's voice was gentle yet determined, "I'll do my best, Auntie Xia. I too want Qiao Qing to feel at ease."

Qiao Chen added, his voice filled with sisterly affection, "Take care of her, okay? And don't mess this up!"

Jia Yuze chuckled, a genuine smile playing on his lips, "I won't, I promise."

With a round of good wishes and a few encouraging pats on the back, Qiao Qing and Jia Yuze left her family's home. As they made their way to his parents' house, Qiao Qing's heart raced with a mixture of excitement and trepidation. Jia Yuze sensed her emotions and reached out to hold her hand, his touch a reassuring anchor.

"Qing Qing," he said softly, "I know this isn't easy for you, but I'm here with you every step of the way. Just be yourself, and I believe everything will turn out fine."

Qiao Qing squeezed his hand, a grateful smile gracing her lips, "Thank you, Brother Yuze. Your presence means more to me than you know."

*

Meanwhile, at the Jia residence, an air of anticipation hung in the air. The grand living room was adorned with tasteful decorations, and the soft lighting created an atmosphere of warmth and elegance. Jia Yuze's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Jia, sat together on a plush couch, their eyes occasionally glancing towards the entrance.

Mr. Jia, a distinguished-looking man with an air of authority, leaned back in his seat, his fingers tapping thoughtfully against the armrest. Beside him, Mrs. Jia, a graceful and poised woman, folded her hands in her lap, her expression a mix of curiosity and excitement.

"Jia Yuze seemed quite determined about this introduction," Mrs. Jia remarked with a smile, her voice carrying a hint of amusement.

Mr. Jia nodded in agreement, "Indeed, he's always been steadfast when he sets his mind to something. I can only imagine the young lady he's bringing must be quite special."

A soft knock on the door interrupted their conversation, and both Mr. and Mrs. Jia turned their attention towards the entrance. Their anticipation grew as Jia Yuze walked in, his hand intertwined with a young woman who exuded an air of grace and poise.

Qiao Qing wore a knee-length navy dress that accentuated her graceful figure, the fabric flowing gently with each step. The dress featured delicate floral patterns, adding a touch of femininity to her ensemble. Her long, ebony hair cascaded down her shoulders in soft waves, framing her face with a touch of natural beauty. A long scar graced her face, a testament to her resilience. Despite this, her smile radiated warmth and kindness, contrasting with the hint of vulnerability that lingered in her gaze.

As Jia Yuze's parents laid eyes on Qiao Qing standing beside their son, their expressions underwent a subtle shift. A moment of surprise passed across their faces, and a faint shadow of uncertainty seemed to cloud their initial enthusiasm. Their brows furrowed slightly, and a brief exchange of glances between them hinted at an unspoken conversation.

"Mom, Dad," Jia Yuze began, his voice steady, "I'd like you to meet someone who has become very important to me—Qiao Qing."

Mr. Jia, his features normally composed, displayed a faint hint of reservation as he regarded Qiao Qing. Mrs. Jia's warm smile faltered for a fraction of a second before she quickly composed herself. The initial reaction was fleeting, but it did not go unnoticed by Jia Yuze or Qiao Qing.

Jia Yuze, ever perceptive, sensed the shift in the room's atmosphere and tightened his grip on Qiao Qing's hand. He exchanged a brief, reassuring glance with her, silently conveying his support and understanding.

Mrs. Jia welcomed the couple in. Jia Yuze and Qiao Qing sat down on the couch after which they were served some snacks and pastries. 

As the servants left the room, Mrs. Jia smiled at Qiao Qing, "Qiao Qing, how are you?"

Qiao Qing replied nervously, "I am fine, Auntie Jia. Thank you for asking."

The awkward silence hung up in the air before Jia Yuze broke it. He knew that he was the connection between his parents and Qiao Qing. Despite the subtle change in his parents' expressions, he maintained his composure. He guided the conversation smoothly, his words reflecting his genuine affection for Qiao Qing and their shared experiences. He hoped that as his parents got to know Qiao Qing better, any reservations they might have would be dispelled.

As the meeting unfolded and conversations flowed, there came a moment when the atmosphere seemed to shift. Jia Yuze's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Jia, found themselves facing a decision—to address their concerns openly or keep them to themselves. Ultimately, they chose to be honest and transparent, wanting to ensure that everyone was on the same page.

Mr. Jia cleared his throat, his gaze shifting between Jia Yuze and Qiao Qing. His voice was measured, yet tinged with a mix of concern and sincerity, "Yuze, we appreciate you bringing Qiao Qing here to meet us. However, we do have some concerns that we would like to address."

Qiao Qing's heart skipped a beat, a sense of apprehension settling in as she met Mr. Jia's gaze. She exchanged a quick glance with Jia Yuze, finding reassurance in his presence beside her.

Mrs. Jia spoke up, her tone gentle yet direct, "Qiao Qing, it's not that we don't value you as a person, but we are concerned about the... impression your scar might leave on others."

Jia Yuze's grip on Qiao Qing's hand tightened, his support a silent affirmation that he was by her side, no matter what.

Qiao Qing took a deep breath, her voice steady as she responded, "I understand your concerns, and I appreciate your honesty. My scar is a part of me, and while I know it might raise questions, I hope that with time, you'll see beyond it and get to know who I am."

Jia Yuze's voice, calm and determined, joined the conversation. "Mom, Dad, I've come to know Qiao Qing as a strong, compassionate, and remarkable person. Her scar is just one aspect of her, and I believe it's important to judge someone based on their character and the way they treat others."

Mr. Jia's expression remained thoughtful as he listened to his son's words. After a moment of contemplation, he nodded slowly. "Jia Yuze, we understand your perspective. We value your judgment and want what's best for you."

"However, you will represent the Jia family in future and Qiao Qing will be the mistress of the Jia family," Mrs. Jia added seriously, "We don't have any issues with her scar but what will other people say?"

"Mom, it's not that what you are saying is wrong, but does it really matter what people would say? Even if Qing Qing didn't have this scar, people would not stop finding faults in her if they want to," Jia Yuze refuted. 

Mrs. Jia shook her head, "If her face was not like this, and people would find some or other thing to say, it won't matter because we know that they are deliberately targeting her. But now, we cannot say that."

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