(Third POV)
(Lui residence)
The morning of Lunar New Year Eve felt charged.
Like the air right before fireworks — quiet, tense, expectant.
The Lui residence was alive early. Staff moved quickly but quietly, fresh orchid arrangements arrived every hour, and an elaborate breakfast spread was laid out on the long dining table.
Mama Lui sat in a pale gold robe, sipping tea as she watched Michelle with an expression that mixed maternal pride and tactical calculation.
"Eat a little more, my heart," she said. "Tonight will be long."
Michelle laughed softly. "Mama, it's just the Yu party. I've been to these things since I was twelve."
"Yes," Mama Lui said knowingly. "But never as Steven Sy's girlfriend."
Michelle paused mid-sip.
Fair point.
Papa Lui folded his newspaper, gave a small grunt. "Just remember who you are. The Lui family stands tall without needing anyone's approval."
The reassurance grounded her.
