Chapter 1005: Chapter 1009: At All Costs Chapter 1005: Chapter 1009: At All Costs “Very well, very well!” The senior master laughed heartily, holding back the tears in his eyes.

What was lost could never be returned.

All he could do was to protect his only son, ensuring the continuation of his and his wife’s bloodline in this world.

In his position, many would sacrifice their own kin, spouses, or even offspring for the greater good of the nation.

But he had already sacrificed too much.

Of his three sons, two had given their lives for the country, dying at their posts.

Only the youngest remained, who also barely survived an incident in the line of duty that left him wounded and forced him into early retirement due to his injuries.

In his lifetime, he had no regrets toward the nation and its people, or his family and conscience–only to his wife and family members.

His remaining years belonged to no one else but his youngest son.

For his youngest son, he was willing to give up everything.

At all costs.

After breakfast, Xinhyu and Xiao Shumiao were left in the care of Senior Master Gu, while Junzhu and Xingbei took Qiao Zui and Mi Sheng to the Mi Family’s residence.

Initially, Mi Sheng was very nervous, but after what happened last night, she lost all sense of anxiety.

What her parents thought of Qiao Zui no longer mattered.

Just as Qiao Zui said, if her parents disapproved of their marriage, they would put down the betrothal gifts, turn around, and leave.

She would enter the wedding hall arm in arm with her brother, and her wedding would be just as perfect.

Her brother was Qiao Zui’s best friend.

With her brother’s presence, she and Qiao Zui needn’t regret that her family wasn’t there.

When the car arrived at the Mi family villa, Mi Sheng said a word to the guard at the gate, and the gate opened, allowing the car to drive straight into the villa and halt on the steps in front of the living room.

The guard had already informed Mi Junyuan; Mi Junyuan greeted them with Siqi, Mi Xinyu, and Mi Xiangyu.

Upon seeing Mi Sheng, Mi Xiangyu’s usually aloof and proud face showed a few hints of the vivacity and joy appropriate for a youth; he strode down the steps and rushed to Mi Sheng’s side, “Big sister, you’re back!”

“Yes,” Mi Sheng smiled at him, “Xiao Yu, you’ve grown taller again.”

Mi Xiangyu was the kindest person to her in this household.

But since both were boarding at school, the siblings didn’t spend much time together.

Accompanied by his wife and daughter, Mi Junyuan approached Junzhu and Xingbei, making a polite gesture, “Young Master Gu, Madam Gu, please come inside.”

The group entered the living room and arranged themselves as hosts and guests.

After exchanging pleasantries, Junzhu got straight to the point, stated the purpose of their visit, and Gu Chi presented the four-part bridal gifts.

In addition to the traditional three-color bridal gifts, the last item was jewelry.

Upon opening the jewelry box, it revealed three sets of jewelry on three tiers–diamonds, rubies, and sapphires.

Just by looking at the design and quality, it was clear that each of these sets was very valuable.

This was a custom in Beijing.

The more substantial the engagement gift, the more the groom’s family was seen to value the bride, and the more face it gave to the bride’s family.

The engagement gift brought by Qiao Zui was undoubtedly full of sincerity.

Mi Junyuan was about to utter some pleasantries when Siqi’s gentle voice interrupted.

Looking at Qiao Zui with tender eyes, she said, “Xiao Qiao… since you are asking to marry my daughter, I will take the liberty of calling you Xiao Qiao.”

Qiao Zui nodded politely, “It should be so. Auntie, if there’s anything you need, just instruct me.”

This was Mi Sheng’s biological mother.

Though Qiao Zui had little respect for her, he was willing to give her enough respect on the merit of her giving birth to and raising Mi Sheng… if she was worthy of that respect.