"I know this is sudden," Lawyer Jin said gently, his tone almost apologetic. "But your grandfather believes this is the fairest way to—"
"Fair?" Chen Lin cut him off, a bitter laugh escaping her lips. "I suppose fairness depends on who you ask."
"Linlin—" Aunt Xi began, her voice full of concern, but Chen Lin raised a hand to stop her.
"I know, Aunt Xi," she said quietly. Then, addressing Lawyer Jin, she added, "Send me the papers when they're ready." Her voice was calm, but there was an edge beneath it, a warning not to push her further.
Lawyer Jin inclined his head slightly. "Of course. I'll ensure everything is prepared."
"Thank you, Uncle." Despite her frustration, Chen Lin's words were polite, her sharp edges softened only by the knowledge that Lawyer Jin was merely following her grandfather's wishes.
Chen Jie, observing his daughter's clear frustration, sighed heavily and called her name. "Lin..."
