Just as Madam Tang and Tang Junjie were still trying to process the emotional rawness of the confrontation, Tang Ziyi wasted no time in laying down firm ground rules for Yang Mei's tentative inclusion in his life.
"Let me make a few things absolutely clear," he stated, his voice carrying an edge of finality that brooked no argument. "If we are to...explore whatever this relationship between us might become, there will be strict boundaries in place. Non-negotiable conditions you must abide by."
Yang Mei, still looking somewhat dazed from the impact of Tang Ziyi's measured decision to allow her a chance, could only mutely nod in agreement. Zhao Liang remained impassive beside her, though Tang Ziyi didn't miss the brief tightening around the man's eyes.
"First," Tang Ziyi went on, "you are not to refer to me as 'son' until I deem our...bond worthy of such a title. For now, you will address me only as Tang Ziyi or Mr. Tang. Is that understood?"
