The Return of the God Level Assassin Chapter 1333: THE PARTY (III)

"UNCLE," Shen Lin began, acknowledging Shen Yi Mu as he settled into a seat at their shared table. With a nearly dismissive tilt of his head, he shifted his focus to Shen Ji Yun. "Ji Yun."

Shen Ji Yun offered a slight nod, his initial surprise at their arrival having already subsided. A staff member had guided their unexpected guests to the table. Shen Lin managed a semblance of politeness, but Shen Xin offered no such courtesy. He slumped into his chair with a sullen expression, clearly wishing he were anywhere else.

A look of mild irritation crossed Shen Lin’s face as he glanced at his brother. It wasn't Shen Xin's rudeness itself, but the necessity of addressing it that irked him. "Ah Xin, mind your manners," he stated flatly.

Shen Xin clicked his tongue. He then turned to Shen Yi Mu, affecting an air of utter boredom. "Uncle."

Shen Yi Mu felt a muscle in his jaw tighten at the disrespectful demeanor of the two young men. While the impulse to lecture them as an elder for their ill manners was strong, he dismissed it as too much trouble. An established distance had always existed between them, a gulf widened by their rigid adherence to the 'Shen family way.' He was certain both Shen Lin and Shen Xin knew about his departure from the family's expectations. The fallout from his leaving home had been considerable, even though he'd been alone with his father and brother in the study; the subsequent shouting could be heard throughout the house, and he had departed in a fury. It was implausible that the rest of the family hadn't heard or, at the very least, suspected the truth.

Just as he was about to return their greetings, he noticed Jiang Yue frowning at his two nephews. His beloved clearly disapproved of their behavior and likely intended to reprimand them for their disrespect. However, Shen Yi Mu swiftly reached under the table, taking Jiang Yue's hand. A gentle squeeze conveyed his silent plea for restraint, signaling that it wasn't worth the confrontation. Shen Lin might merely offer a dismissive look, but Shen Xin would undoubtedly resort to insults without hesitation. Shen Yi Mu had no desire to resort to physical discipline against his own nephew amidst this gathering.

As Shen Yi Mu had anticipated, Jiang Yue was indeed on the verge of speaking. The manner in which the two younger men had greeted Shen Yi Mu underscored their profound lack of respect for their uncle. This displeased him greatly. Yet, before he could voice his concerns, he felt Shen Yi Mu’s hand covering his, offering a gentle squeeze.

He looked at his boyfriend. Shen Yi Mu’s composure was evident. Their eyes met, and Shen Yi Mu offered a faint smile, shaking his head slightly. The unspoken message was clear: do not react, let it pass. Jiang Yue’s brow furrowed, but he exhaled a quiet sigh and gave a small nod.

Shen Yi Mu redirected his attention to his nephews. "It is good to see you both. Were you alone, or did someone accompany you?"

"Just us," Shen Lin replied. "Our grandmother wished to attend, but she and Grandfather had a prior engagement." He paused briefly. "She asked us to deliver gifts for the Luo siblings, who are celebrating their birthday today."

Shen Xin let out a scornful sound. "What is this event, really? The Luo family isn't even from around here. Inviting everyone so broadly…" He shook his head. "It’s obvious they’re attempting to buy their way into B City’s elite circles."

"Then perhaps you have no reason to be here if that is your opinion," Shen Ji Yun interjected, his voice carrying an unusual chill. "No one is compelling you to remain."

Shen Lin raised an eyebrow, taken aback by Shen Ji Yun's unexpected response. He wondered if this was a consequence of his close friendship with the Bai family's young master, and given the known marital ties between the Bai and Luo families. He shrugged internally, unconcerned. His immediate interest, in fact, lay with the man seated beside his uncle.

This individual appeared to be roughly the same age as his uncle, possessing a tall, slender build and refined features. His presence at their table suggested a connection to Shen Yi Mu. Perhaps he was an assistant? Shen Lin found himself hoping this was the case. The alternative—that he was romantically involved with his uncle—while not entirely improbable given what the family now understood about Uncle Yi Mu, was a less desirable thought.

The possibility that his uncle might have brought his lover to such a prominent event amongst B City's elite caused Shen Lin's brow to furrow. Such a revelation could cast a negative light upon their family name. He could only hope his uncle retained sufficient discretion not to flaunt his relationship ostentatiously.

He then observed his brother glaring intently at Shen Ji Yun, likely still unsettled by their earlier exchange. Shen Lin sighed inwardly. This was precisely why he had been hesitant to bring Shen Xin along. His brother possessed a notoriously short temper. Shen Xin typically avoided such functions, making his volunteering to attend tonight all the more surprising. Shen Lin had initially assumed he might be seeking opportunities for social interaction. So why was he now seated here, disparaging the hosts of the party?

With another sigh, he shot his brother a cautionary glance to prevent Shen Xin from speaking. Shen Xin clicked his tongue and turned his head.

Just then, the banquet hall's illumination dimmed subtly. A quiet murmur spread through the assembly as Sun Xiulan ascended the small platform positioned near the windows. Taking her place behind the microphone, a gentle smile graced her features, and she patiently awaited the cessation of all conversation.

"A pleasant evening to all," she announced, her voice resonating with clarity and warmth. "We are deeply appreciative of your presence tonight as we celebrate with our family. As you are aware, we have gathered to bestow honor upon two remarkable young individuals. My esteemed nephews, Luo Yan and Luo Jin."

She paused momentarily, directing her gaze toward the hall's entrance. "Without any further delay, I invite you to welcome the esteemed celebrants of this occasion."

The grand double doors at the far end of the hall swung open, and a wave of gentle applause washed over the room as two young men made their entrance.