Maybe it’s still due to concerns about Li Peifeng’s background, or perhaps the couple’s status and the intellectuals’ arrogance, leading to habitual condescendence.

But after careful reflection, Li Peifeng discerned another reason: deep down, the Zhao and Li couple never fully approved of his relationship with Zhao Qingge, believing they’d break up sooner or later or secretly hoping they wouldn’t end up together.

Such thoughts are understandable, and Li Peifeng doesn’t mind.

After dinner was prepared, Li Xin and Zhao Haiqi chatted casually with him as they ate. Perhaps because they had already gathered information about Li Peifeng’s income and family background when they met at the hot spring, they surprisingly didn’t ask about salary, housing, or car-related topics.

They only inquired about how Li Peifeng fell in love with their daughter, his plans after graduation, his parents’ current situation, and his expectations for their future.

They didn’t bring up the topic of marriage, as it was only their first meeting with the parents and Li Peifeng hadn’t graduated yet, making it a bit early to ask. Besides, Zhao Haiqi and Li Xin didn’t believe they would end up together.

Nonetheless, Li Peifeng sincerely shared his plans;

"Even if the road ahead is long and our love faces numerous challenges, I am determined to move forward. As long as there’s the slightest chance of reaching the other shore, I won’t give up. This is not only my promise to you two and her, but also my genuine thought."

Zhao Qingge, who had been silently dining, showed a flash of gentleness in her eyes. Li Xin nodded slightly, appearing satisfied with his answer, while Zhao Haiqi raised his glass to clink it with Li Peifeng’s.

The dinner ended smoothly, just around seven o’clock. Zhao Haiqi took Li Peifeng to the study for a private chat, while Li Xin stayed with Zhao Qingge in the living room, talking about unknown topics.

"I have Tieguanyin, Dahongpao, Dianhong, Jin Junmei... which would you like to drink?"

"Anything you choose, I’m not picky."

The study had a classic aroma, and the simple tea set matched the environment perfectly. Li Peifeng sat on the chair, watching Zhao Haiqi perform his tea arts.

Due to having some wine during dinner, Zhao Haiqi’s face was slightly flushed, and he became more talkative, discussing literature expansively, from domestic to international.

Once the tea was brewed, Zhao Haiqi put down his conversation and focused on serving the tea.

"Try it."

Li Peifeng lifted the teacup for a sip, immediately sensing a pleasant aroma. Just as he was about to compliment it, Zhao Haiqi spoke first, with a gleam in his eyes while drinking tea: "I heard you mentioned you are starting a business with two classmates, right?"

Li Peifeng paused slightly but answered calmly: "Yes."

Zhao Haiqi nodded and asked: "Are they male or female classmates?"

"... Female classmates."

Li Peifeng’s mind raced; clearly, Zhao Haiqi didn’t bring this up without reason. Discussing this suddenly meant he had noticed something.

Everyone at school knew about the three co-founding a business, and eighteen different versions circulated about their relationship. If Zhao Haiqi wanted to find out, he could easily discover this.

But those rumors were just rumors, and Zhao Haiqi wouldn’t know the real situation. Speaking of which, was Li Xin also discussing this with Zhao Qingge...

"One named Wu Wenyue, and the other Xu Manning, correct?"

Li Peifeng nodded and said: "Yes, Qingge also knows them; we’ve had dinner together several times."

"Oh."

Zhao Haiqi’s expression shifted subtly, seeming a bit relieved. He picked up his cup to drink tea again. After a moment of silence, he said: "After learning about your relationship with Duoduo, I consulted a teacher from Bei Hua on your school performance and heard some intriguing rumors!"

Li Peifeng’s heart tightened, but Zhao Haiqi’s tone softened: "Of course, young people tend to have more romantic experiences, which is understandable. But now that you’ve established a relationship with Duoduo, I think you need to restrain yourself."

Zhao Haiqi’s expression was profound: "You still need to have respect for relationships; I only have one daughter. It’s her first love, and she’s easily vulnerable to hurt. Do you understand?"

Li Peifeng fell into contemplation.

Isn’t courage considered the most precious virtue?! How did this turn around?