Chapter 23: The First Major Strategy
The day dawned bright and clear, but Lin Xiao Yan had already been awake for hours. The twin soul within her hummed quietly, aligned and alert, as she reviewed the schedule she had meticulously prepared the night before. Today wasn't just another appearance—it was the first major test of her strategy to secure her mother's comeback and her father's reputation.
Hua Yichen entered the living room, dressed in a simple but elegant outfit. She paused when she saw Xiao Yan studying her carefully, as if analyzing every detail.
"Xiao Yan… do you think this outfit is okay?" Hua Yichen asked nervously.
Xiao Yan tapped her tablet. "Mommy, the color is perfect. It shows confidence without being flashy. And the cut… it frames you well on camera. No mistakes today."
Liang Zhiwei chuckled softly. "You've become the fashion consultant too?"
"I'm five," Xiao Yan said seriously. "I notice everything adults miss."
The family left for the event—a high-profile charity gala that would be covered live across multiple networks. Xiao Yan had planned it meticulously: the entrances, the seating, the interviews, and even which cameras should focus on whom at key moments. Every move was calculated to highlight the family's unity, resilience, and authenticity.
As they stepped onto the red carpet, Xiao Yan took the lead subtly. She guided Hua Yichen's hand, positioned Liang Zhiwei slightly behind but visible, and gave small nods to photographers and staff. The cameras caught it all: the confident mother, the protective father, and the small but commanding daughter.
During interviews, Xiao Yan whispered guidance. "Mommy, answer briefly. Smile naturally. Daddy, nod when she says that. It shows support."
The media responded immediately. Comments and social posts flooded in:
"Wen Nuan looks amazing and confident!"
"Her daughter is so sharp! That little girl is directing her mother!"
"The father's presence is calm and reassuring. This family seems real!"
By the end of the evening, the gala had been a massive success. Hua Yichen's image had been completely rehabilitated; the public saw her as strong, capable, and genuinely happy. Liang Zhiwei's presence reassured everyone that the family was united and safe. And Xiao Yan? She had subtly steered every detail without anyone realizing it, cementing her role as the strategist behind the scenes.
Back at the apartment that night, Xiao Yan leaned back, satisfied. "Mommy, Daddy… today went perfectly. The public believes in us. Our enemies can't touch us now."
Hua Yichen hugged her tightly. "You… you did all this. Xiao Yan, I don't know how to thank you."
Xiao Yan shook her head. "You don't need to. I just made sure we're safe—and strong."
Liang Zhiwei rested a hand on her small shoulder. "You've done more than I ever could. You've not only protected the family but made us respected again. You're incredible, Xiao Yan."
Outside, the city pulsed with lights, cameras, and social media chatter. But inside, Lin Xiao Yan's family felt unshakable, united, and secure.
The past had been defeated. The present was under their control.
And the future?
The future belonged to them.
Xiao Yan closed her eyes, a faint smile on her lips. With two aligned souls guiding her, nothing could stop the little girl who had survived betrayal, danger, and deceit from shaping her family's destiny.