Hidden truth, intricate love

Lin Yue's heart trembled. She knew the weight of Li's mother's words and knew she couldn't immediately meet her expectations. Undeterred by the pressure, she spoke more firmly, "Auntie, I understand your concerns. The family business is indeed complex and requires skill to manage. But my feelings for Li Hao are sincere, and I am willing to spend my life learning and adapting to the family's rules and responsibilities. I won't be a mere companion, but someone who can share the burden with Li Hao."

Mother Li was silent for a moment, a hint of seriousness in her eyes. She didn't continue the conversation, but nodded slowly, a hint of satisfaction in her tone. "Ms. Lin Yue, I admire your attitude. As a woman, your attitude is as important as your courage. Our family needs someone who can take responsibility at critical moments. I hope you can fulfill your promise today and prevent Li Hao from falling into hardship."

Lin Yue nodded, her eyes full of determination: "Auntie, I will do my best and will not let you and Li Hao down."

Li Hao felt a surge of relief when his mother finally showed some recognition of Lin Yue. He gently squeezed Lin Yue's hand, turned to her, and spoke softly but firmly, "Mother, Lin Yue is more than just a companion to me; she's my spiritual support. Her presence gives me greater confidence in facing our family's responsibilities. I know you have hopes for our future, but I believe that with Lin Yue by my side, I will be better equipped to shoulder those responsibilities."

Mother Li looked at Li Hao quietly, a complex expression in her eyes. She sighed softly and said slowly, "Li Hao, I understand your choice and respect your decision. I just hope you understand that family responsibilities are not something you can easily let go of, and that the burden you bear needs someone to share it with you. If Lin Yue can truly be the one to stay by your side, I will not interfere with your relationship."

Li Hao smiled slightly and bowed deeply to his mother, his tone full of gratitude: "Thank you, mother. I will prove with my actions that my choice is correct."

Mother Li smiled faintly, with a hint of helplessness, and turned to look at Lin Yue: "Ms. Lin Yue, today's conversation has shown me your determination. I hope that in the days to come, you can stick to your original intention, not only for Li Hao, but also for the future of our family."

Lin Yue nodded and said firmly, "Auntie, I will use my efforts to prove myself and will not let you and the family down."

Mother Li waved her hand gently, indicating that they could leave. Lin Yue and Li Hao looked at each other, bowed deeply to Mother Li, and walked out of the reception room.

The moment she left the old house, Lin Yue finally breathed a sigh of relief. She felt the tension in her heart gradually dissipate, followed by a sense of accomplishment and relief. Although the journey had been difficult, she knew she had finally gained some recognition from her family.

Li Hao gently held her hand and said with a smile, "Lin Yue, you did very well. Mother rarely compromises with others. Your performance today has made her recognize you in a new way."

Lin Yue smiled, a hint of relief in her tone: "Li Hao, I'm actually not sure I can do it. Your mother is very decisive, and the pressure in her words made me understand that the family's responsibility is far greater than I imagined. However, this meeting has made me more determined to stay by your side and share your responsibilities."

Li Hao looked at her with deep emotion and love in his eyes: "Lin Yue, thank you for bearing all this for me. I know it's not easy, but you have shown me your strength and determination."

Lin Yue leaned gently on his shoulder, feeling a surge of warmth. "Li Hao, this isn't just for you, it's also for myself. You're the partner I chose, and I want to prove that I'm capable of facing the future with you."

Li Hao gently hugged her and whispered, "Lin Yue, our future will definitely be good. No matter how complicated our family is, we will work hard together and grow together."

After returning home, Lin Yue felt resolute and confident. She knew the road ahead wouldn't be easy, but she was determined to face every challenge alongside Li Hao. While the pressure from her family was immense, she felt reassured by their mutual support.

A few days later, Li's mother sent a family advisor to ask for Lin Yue's initial involvement in certain family matters. This invitation represented not only a preliminary recognition of her abilities but also the beginning of the family's formal testing of her. Lin Yue knew that every decision and every performance she made would impact Li Hao's position and future within the family.

She was both excited and nervous when she received the news. She knew she couldn't let Li Hao and his mother down, nor could she back down at this moment. She knew this was a golden opportunity to prove herself, and it was also the first step toward integrating into the Li family and earning their respect.

A few days later, Lin Yue received a formal invitation from Li's mother, inviting her to attend the family business's quarterly review meeting. The meeting covered various areas of the business, and Li's mother hoped she would observe and offer insights. While her primary role was to observe and learn, Lin Yue understood that this was also an opportunity for her to demonstrate her abilities and attitude.

On the way to the meeting, Li Hao stayed by her side, patiently explaining the background of the family business, the details of various projects, and the key management members. His words were gentle and encouraging, as if he hoped to use his support to relieve Lin Yue's stress.

"Lin Yue, don't be too nervous. Today is just a preliminary observation." Li Hao gently held her hand and said softly, "The management of the family are all professional elites. You just need to do your best to understand and learn, and show a sincere attitude."

Lin Yue smiled slightly and nodded gently: "I will, Li Hao. Your encouragement makes me feel much more at ease."

Soon, they arrived at the conference room. Li's mother was already seated in the main seat, flanked by several serious executives. Lin Yue bowed slightly, then took her seat, intent on listening.

At the start of the meeting, several executives took turns reporting on their respective business projects, covering the company's domestic and international business expansion, recent revenue, and future market plans. Lin Yue sat by and listened attentively, diligently memorizing every detail and constantly thinking about what suggestions he could make.

As the report progressed, she noticed a significant decline in profits in one particular business segment. The discussions among the executives regarding this segment lacked many innovative solutions and seemed rather conservative. Lin Yue, noticing this, pondered the matter and decided to present her own perspective at the appropriate time.

After the report, Mother Li turned to Lin Yue and said gently, "Lin Yue, as a newcomer, you're welcome to ask questions or offer suggestions today. I hope to hear your understanding. Whether you have questions or differing opinions, feel free to share them."