“The President's Surrogacy”.

4

All eyes turned to Xia Zixin, a petite young woman nervously rubbing her hands together, her whole body trembling slightly. Cold sweat glistened on her palms as she clutched at the hem of her clothes.

Her sister and brother-in-law were supposed to be on their honeymoon—why had they returned in less than a month? What shocked her even more was the sight of her brother-in-law standing before her. He radiated an innate aura of regality that made her heart skip a beat. As though suddenly realizing something, she hastily let her bangs fall over her face, inexplicably afraid of him seeing her imperfections.

Standing tall beside Xia Zixin, his imposing figure made her seem even more delicate. Luo Yiwei smiled faintly. “It’s fine; just tuck your hair behind your ear. It’ll feel more comfortable that way,” he said softly. Then, with long, slender fingers, he brushed aside the strands of hair covering her cheek.

The warmth of his touch sent a shiver through her. She nodded lightly, though deep down, she knew his kindness toward her stemmed entirely from his feelings for her sister.

With gentlemanly elegance, he opened the car door, helped her settle in, and quickly walked around to the driver’s seat. He glanced at her and leaned over to fasten her seatbelt, teasingly remarking, “I’m not the best driver; better to buckle up for safety.” As he drew close, a peculiar, nostalgic sensation overcame him—the frailty of her trembling body felt strangely familiar. “You and your sister are so alike,” he murmured.

His words struck Xia Zixin like a thunderclap, and she instinctively pushed him away, whispering, “I’ll do it myself.”

Luo Yiwei smiled faintly, gripping the steering wheel. “We don’t have much time; everyone’s waiting for us,” he said as he started the car. The wind rushing through the open window was sharp and cool, making Xia Zixin hold her breath. She closed her eyes tightly, gripping the armrest, her face already pale.

Although she was born into a wealthy family, she lacked the composure that came with it. Even the speed of the sports car terrified her—a fact that brought a wry smile to Luo Yiwei’s lips. He thought to himself, if it were Qing, she’d probably be standing up, relishing the thrill.

As they entered Central, the bustling heart of Hong Kong, they passed iconic landmarks like Jardine House before stopping in front of a resplendent hotel. Xia Zixin opened her eyes to see the gilded characters spelling “Jacques Versailles” glimmering before her.

The Jacques Versailles Hotel, one of the ancient properties under the Luo family’s empire, bore a legacy that spoke of status and power. The grandeur of its European-style architecture and aristocratic aura offered just a glimpse of its storied history.

For Xia Zixin, this was only a speck of the Luo family’s vast fortune, yet even this tiny fragment was enough to make her family seem insignificant in comparison. Standing there, she felt her own insignificance keenly.

Two impeccably dressed men quickly approached to open the car doors for them. Luo Yiwei adjusted his collar, tossed the car keys to one of the attendants, and stepped out. “Let’s go; they’re waiting to start,” he said to Xia Zixin.

She glanced down at her simple jeans and T-shirt, feeling completely out of place amidst the elegance and sophistication of her surroundings.

“Come on,” Luo Yiwei called again, his voice snapping her out of her daze. She hurried to catch up with him as he strode forward like a king walking through his domain. The hotel staff lined up in reverent silence, bowing and addressing him as “President” with every step he took. His every movement exuded an undeniable majesty.

The lavish interiors dazzled her. Every corner was opulent, every detail meticulously crafted. Even the guests passing by exuded an air of exclusivity, flanked by bodyguards that signified their elite status.

Cautiously, Xia Zixin followed Luo Yiwei through a corridor shimmering like crystal until two female attendants pushed open a set of grand doors. Inside, she saw her parents, her sister, and… Luo Yiwei’s parents?

Her sister Xia Yaqing, dressed in an elegant white gown, stood with a warm smile and approached her. Placing a hand on Xia Zixin’s shoulder, she said, “Zixin, you’re finally here,” before returning to Luo Yiwei’s side and holding his arm.

Xia Zixin nodded and murmured, “Thank you, brother-in-law, for coming to fetch me,” before lowering her gaze, avoiding everyone’s eyes. She instinctively touched the bangs covering her left cheek, wary of exposing her flaws. Turning to the elders, she greeted politely, “Uncle, Aunt, good evening.”

Bai Xueqin’s gentle face lit up with a smile. “What a sweet and obedient child you are, Zixin. Come, take a seat.”

Luo Xiang, his expression as stern and commanding as ever, remarked, “Old Xia, I heard Zixin is also studying hotel management. It seems she’ll be as outstanding as Yaqing one day.”

“Keeping my father’s business alive and raising my two daughters well is all I’ve ever hoped for,” Xia Rongsheng said humbly, his tone tinged with paternal love.

“Old Xia, we parents understand each other’s hearts,” Luo Xiang replied with uncharacteristic warmth, patting Xia Rongsheng’s hand.

“Yes, we truly must thank you, Old Xia, for giving us such a beautiful and capable daughter-in-law,” Bai Xueqin added with a graceful smile, her charm undiminished by age.

“It’s our family’s honor,” said Tang Hui, Xia Zixin’s mother, echoing with humility.

“Enough chatting—let’s eat before the food gets cold,” Luo Xiang finally announced, breaking the lengthy conversation.

“Yes, yes, let’s eat,” Bai Xueqin agreed eagerly, turning to Yaqing. “Yaqing, make sure to eat well. We’re all waiting for you to give us healthy grandchildren.”

Her words made the room grow tense for a moment. Tang Hui’s hands trembled slightly, her eyes darting to her daughter.

Yaqing, sensing her mother’s unease, gently squeezed her hand under the table before smiling at Luo Yiwei. “Husband, we have quite the responsibility ahead of us.”

“And I’m more than happy to oblige,” Luo Yiwei replied, softly brushing her cheek. Their intimate exchange drew admiration from everyone present.

“Look at the newlyweds,” Bai Xueqin remarked with a laugh.

Meanwhile, Xia Zixin remained silent, her head down, focusing on her meal. Her heart felt heavy, but she didn’t want to dwell on such thoughts. She knew her sister was under immense pressure as well.

“Zixin, you’re too thin. You should eat more,” Luo Yiwei said, placing some food on her plate.

“Thank you, brother-in-law,” she replied softly, keeping her head down and continuing to eat. She knew his concern was simply a reflection of his love for her sister.