Chapter 739: The Gu Family Head’s Eightyth Birthday

Editor: Henyee Translations

June 24th.

Gu Hongwei, the patriarch of the illustrious Gu family, one of the revered Eight Great Clans of the capital, extended invitations to esteemed guests for his 80th birthday celebration at the ancestral Gu mansion.

The perimeter of the estate was cordoned off with restricted access, and security measures were stringent.

At the crossroads, numerous media outlets eagerly awaited, capturing glimpses of opulent luxury and high-performance vehicles. Among the attendees were affluent tycoons, influential figures, and renowned personalities.

To outsiders, it appeared as a scene of boundless grandeur and envy, yet within the inner circles of the Gu family, it was a reminder of the bygone splendor of the late patriarch.

Gu Zhaoming, accompanied by his family of six, arrived in separate cars, proceeding towards the historic mansion. Upon parking at the designated area, they made their way inside.

Stepping out of the vehicle, Gu Zhaoming gazed upon the old estate, its architecture intertwining with his memories, evoking a sense of nostalgia that stirred within him. With a soft sigh, he acknowledged the passage of time, recognizing that his mindset in middle age differed vastly from his youthful impulsivity.

Reflecting on his past, he recalled a time of brash decisions and heated conflicts, now realizing the fleeting nature of those pursuits.

If it were today, he likely would have handled things differently.

Observing the melancholy etched in Gu Zhaoming’s eyes, Gu Yang gently inquired, “Dad, do you ever regret it?”

Did he rue the impulsive decision to relinquish his position as heir?

Gu Zhaoming tousled her head affectionately, a smile gracing his lips. “If I did, I wouldn’t have met your mother.”

With his wife and children beside him, he found contentment.

His pursuits now transcended mere vengeance or shielding his family from his two reckless brothers. He sought strength to safeguard his loved ones.

As his children matured, hidden truths emerged, accompanied by unseen perils.

Despite the Gu family’s decline, they remained among the prestigious Eight Great Clans.

A steely resolve flashed in Gu Zhaoming’s eyes as he treaded confidently.

Having not returned to the ancestral residence in two decades, the unfamiliar security guards failed to recognize him.

Thankfully, the Fifth Elder’s prior instructions ensured smooth passage for Gu Zhaoming’s family upon revealing their identities.

With a legacy spanning a century, the Gu family’s courtyard exuded an aura of antiquity and dignity. Each step within its confines evoked beauty and grace.

Even in today’s market, acquiring such a vast estate would be a formidable task, especially given its prime location in the capital.

Guiding his family towards the banquet hall, Gu Zhaoming encountered an unexpected acquaintance.

“What brings you here?”

Ye Qingzi’s expression betrayed her surprise upon encountering Gu Yang and Gu Jin at the Gu family’s ancestral mansion, prompting a subtle frown.

The Gu family’s status as one of the esteemed Eight Great Clans in the capital was unattainable for their counterparts in Jin City.

How, then, could Gu Yang and Gu Jin’s family find themselves in attendance at such an event?

Could they be distant relatives of the capital’s Gu family?

But that notion seemed implausible. Ye Qingzi had conducted thorough investigations into the Gu sisters, spanning nearly a decade, yet found no evidence of any ties between the Gu family in Jin City and their counterparts in the capital.

The presence of Ye Qingzi didn’t surprise the Gu family.

Beside Ye Qingzi was an 18 or 19-year-old girl.

The girl, adorned in an elegant and fresh light green evening gown, exuded grace and refinement. Her waist-length hair cascaded in waves, complementing her exquisite makeup. Her demeanor was poised, resembling that of a noble lady.

Linking arms with Ye Qingzi, she queried in confusion, “Sister Qingzi, what’s the matter? Do you recognize them?”

“I do. They’re from a newly wealthy family in Jin City,” Ye Qingzi responded with disdain.

A faint frown creased the girl’s brow.

Casting a contemptuous glance at Gu Yang and his companions, Ye Qingzi’s disdain was palpable. “Shuxue, your birthday celebration lacks decorum. How could just anyone waltz in uninvited?”

Gu Zhaoming’s expression darkened. “Miss Ye, mind your language.”

Gu Pei’s temper flared. “You’re the ones behaving like intruders. This is my father’s residence. What’s wrong with us attending the banquet?”

“You claim this as your home?” Ye Qingzi chuckled, amused. Taking Gu Shuxue’s hand in hers, she shook it gently. Her smile widened as she remarked, “Then do you know who she is?”