This person is clearly a male protagonist in a female-oriented novel, yet he is excessively lucid.

"I don't look down on anyone."

Yu Chenzhou remained calm, unperturbed by his uncle's questioning, and responded clearly and logically, his gaze fixed on Lin Tingting, his attitude resolute and unwavering.

"Tingting borrowing money to buy a house is a private matter between her and her boyfriend."

Linlin and I have our own plans and need to make long-term arrangements for the twins in her womb. We have no obligation to provide this money. Besides, to put it bluntly, I don't think her boyfriend is capable of taking out such a high loan.

Besides, lending money is the easiest way to damage relationships. If I help her today, and others come to me for help in the future, it will be even harder to handle the situation if I show favoritism.

If repayments become difficult later on, and relatives turn against each other, it will be even more awkward than it is now.

His words were all reasonable and impartial, completely shattering everyone's illusions.

He withdrew his gaze and turned to look at Yu Chenhai, his sharp eyes piercing through the other's thoughts without the slightest mercy:

"Brother Shenhai, you should know better than anyone else that a company's investment projects only look at the project's potential, the team's professional capabilities, and the market prospects. It relies on hard power, not personal relationships."

If I were to speak up rashly, it would not only put my father-in-law in a difficult position and violate his investment principles, but it would also deprive your project of the opportunity for a fair evaluation. If the project itself is flawed, even if my father-in-law invests out of consideration for our relationship, he will ultimately only suffer losses, which might not be a good thing for you.

His words hit the nail on the head, striking at Yu Chenhai's weak point, causing Yu Chenhai's expression to instantly become somewhat unnatural.

After speaking, he turned his gaze to the other relatives and responded to their requests for connections, job placements, and resource referrals one by one, his tone firm and his attitude clear:

"I understand your intentions, and I know that you all want to make your lives better."

But the connections and resources that Linlin, the Xiao family, and I have built up step by step through hard work and accumulation are meant for doing real things and getting things done, not for using as tools for exchanging favors.

Using connections to arrange jobs or schooling—putting aside whether it's legal or not—even if I get you in, do you really have the ability to establish yourself there?

When introducing resources, it's crucial to assess whether both parties are a good match and share similar values. I cannot cause trouble for the Xiao family or other partners simply because of kinship, nor can I jeopardize everyone's future because of temporary sentimentality.

"But we're family!"

The uncle couldn't help but speak, his tone full of dissatisfaction and resentment, as if he had suffered a great injustice.

"Now that you have the ability, money and power, isn't it only natural for you to help your own family?"

At yesterday's wedding, those important people were so polite to you. It was just a small favor for you. What's wrong with helping us out?

Do you only feel at ease when your family is suffering?

He deliberately emphasized the wedding scene, trying to use Yu Chenzhou's "glory" to coerce him and force him to compromise.

"It is precisely because we are family that I must speak frankly and not let our relationship change."

Yu Chenzhou's tone became more serious as he scanned the crowd:

"I am where I am today not because I depend on the Xiao family, but because of my own abilities and the reputation I have built by treating and saving lives time and time again. What Linlin recognizes is my character and ability."

Relatives should respect and bless each other, rather than taking advantage of their relationship to make excessive demands and using others' success as a means to profit themselves.

I can say definitively that if you encounter genuine difficulties such as a family member suffering a serious illness or a sudden accident, I will never refuse and will do my best to help.

But I will never agree to such favoritism or personal gain.

These words, spoken with neither servility nor arrogance, were forceful and resounding, leaving all the relatives speechless and unable to find any reason to refute them.

Some looked ashamed, lowered their heads, and dared not meet his sharp gaze, knowing in their hearts that their demands were indeed excessive; others were full of resentment, clenched their fists, but could not utter a single word.

Lin Tingting's eyes reddened, and she bit her lip, unwilling to give up so easily. She took a step forward and tugged tightly at Yu Chenzhou's sleeve, refusing to let go. Her tone no longer carried the full sense of grievance, but instead contained a hint of feigned pitifulness, trying to move him with her tears:

"Brother Chenzhou, I really have no other choice... The housing prices in Shanghai are too high, and we really can't afford the down payment. Can you lend me some money?"

Even if it's just a portion, I'll definitely work hard to earn money to pay you back in the future. I'll give you an IOU, written clearly and explicitly!

Undeterred, Yu Chenhai suppressed his embarrassment and stepped forward to press for an answer:

"Shenzhou, my project really has potential, it's not what you think. Just mention it to Uncle Xiao for me, whether it works out or not is another matter, but it will be a favor you do as a relative, and I won't bother you again in the future!"

Yu Chenzhou calmly withdrew his sleeve, his eyes cold and unwavering, his tone resolute:

"Tingting, there's absolutely no way I'm going to lend you money."

Buying a house is your and your husband's responsibility. You should rely on your own efforts, not depend on others. Even if it means signing an IOU, my decision remains unchanged.

He turned to look at Yu Chenhai, his gaze sharp as a knife:

"Brother Shenhai, you know the project lacks solid capabilities, yet you still try to take shortcuts by relying on personal connections."

If I were to bring it up, it would be disrespectful to my father-in-law, irresponsible to you, and would ultimately only harm you.

Let's not talk about investments anymore.

He swept his gaze across the crowd, his words clear and penetrating:

I understand what you all are thinking.

Also, please note that hotel rooms are only available until today. Please arrange your return trip or accommodation as soon as possible and do not delay any further.

These words hit the nail on the head, both exposing the nature of greed and extinguishing their desire to linger.

The uncle was stunned, and swallowed back the words that were on the tip of his tongue;

Lin Tingting, her eyes red and glaring at him with resentment, stormed off to the side.

Yu Chenhai's face turned pale and then red, embarrassed yet unwilling to give up, muttering under his breath, "They clearly have a bright future, but they just look down on us."

Hearing the commotion outside, Lin Guilan and Yu Changgui also came out of their guest room.

Seeing her son's resolute expression and his unwavering adherence to his principles, Lin Guilan's unease gradually dissipated, replaced by a sense of pride and relief.

She stepped forward and added a sentence to her relatives, her tone tinged with helplessness, yet also making her stance clear:

"Shen Zhou is right. The hotel is indeed only booked until today. Your uncle and I have packed our luggage and will check out with everyone else now."

Then, softening his tone, he earnestly advised:

"Everyone heard it; what Chen Zhou said makes sense."

We're all family, so let's not bring up these things that make things difficult for each other. It's not worth hurting our relationship.

If you'd like to stay a couple more days to explore Shanghai, book your own accommodation and have a good time.

If you want to leave, your uncle and I will help you grab tickets and contact trains.

Going forward, we still need to rely on our own hard work and dedication; depending on others is not a long-term solution.

The relatives, having been disheartened by Yu Chenzhou's resolute refusal and learning that their room reservations were due today, had no excuse to stay any longer and could only disperse dejectedly.

Some people walked along complaining about being "stingy" and "forgetting their roots," unable to hide their resentment at their unfulfilled greed.

Some people abandoned their unrealistic ideas and hurriedly checked train tickets and booked hotels, abandoning their previous calculating demeanor.

Yu Chenzhou stood still, watching their backs, his eyes calm and unwavering, only showing a steadfast determination to maintain his composure.

After dealing with the unpleasant situation at the hotel and waiting for everyone to leave, he went back to his room to give his parents a few words of advice before rushing back to their new home.

Pushing open the door, the gentle atmosphere that filled the room instantly washed away all the hostility and coldness around him.

Xiao Yilin was leaning back on the sofa reading a book. The warm sunlight fell on her hair, her eyes were gentle, her temperament was serene, and even the air around her exuded a lazy and peaceful feeling.

He strode over, bent down, and took her hand. The coldness in his voice vanished, replaced by an overwhelming tenderness and relief. His fingertips gently caressed the back of her hand.

"Are you bored staying home alone all by yourself?"

Everything's been taken care of. From now on, these trivial matters will never bother you and the child again.

Xiao Yilin put down her book, looked up at him and smiled, her eyes full of trust:

"It's not boring. I knew you could handle it."

Are you tired? Sit down and rest for a while. I've left you some warm tea.

Yu Chenzhou pulled her into his arms, resting his chin on the top of her head, greedily inhaling her gentle scent.

"With you here, I'm not tired."

Thankfully, these things didn't disrupt our lives, and you weren't wronged.

Sunlight bathed the two of them, and the earlier arguments and coldness in the hotel were completely melted away by the current sense of peace and sweetness, leaving only a feeling of security and warmth.

That afternoon, Yu Chenzhou helped his parents and relatives check out of the hotel, settled the relatives who were returning home one by one, and even took his parents to the station. He only left after watching them board the train with peace of mind.

Afterwards, he drove back to the new house to pick up Xiao Yilin, and together they went to the Xiao family's old house.

The Xiao family's old house is simple and elegant, with many flowers and plants planted in the courtyard. The evening breeze gently blows, bringing waves of fragrance that make people feel relaxed and comfortable.

Father-in-law Xiao Tianhe and mother-in-law Song Shuwan were already waiting in the living room. The living room was brightly lit and warm. Xiao Tianhe held a cup of warm tea in his hand, his expression gentle but with a hint of deep thought.

Upon seeing the two enter, Song Shuwan immediately stood up to greet them, quickly walked to Xiao Yilin's side, took her hand, and looked her up and down, her tone full of heartache:

"You must be exhausted."

"These past two days have been filled with weddings and dealing with relatives' affairs. Sit down and rest for a while. The kitchen has prepared your favorite bird's nest soup; I'll have the housekeeper bring it to you."

As he spoke, he helped Xiao Yilin sit down on the sofa and carefully covered her with a thin blanket.

Everyone took their seats in turn, and the servants served warm bird's nest and tea, creating a peaceful and warm atmosphere in the living room.

Xiao Tianhe put down his teacup, sat up slightly, and spoke first. His gaze fell on Yu Chenzhou, and his tone was knowing, clearly indicating that he already knew everything:

"Shenzhou, I've already heard about what happened at the hotel this morning with the Yu family's relatives."

Those people's actions were indeed excessive; they took advantage of kinship to push and escalate the situation.

Yu Chenzhou was slightly taken aback, then slowly nodded, his tone carrying a hint of apology:

"I'm sorry to have troubled Dad and made the whole family worry. I didn't handle it well and caused everyone trouble."

Song Shuwan nodded in agreement, her tone carrying a hint of dissatisfaction, but more so an understanding of Yu Chenzhou:

"It's not just your dad; I've also heard some rumors. Those people are indeed greedy and keep pushing their luck. You don't need to feel sorry; this wasn't your problem to begin with."

Xiao Tianhe waved his hand, indicating that Yu Chenzhou didn't need to take it to heart. He leaned forward slightly, his tone softening, conveying both the authority of a father-in-law and the consideration and care of an elder for a younger generation, his eyes full of sincerity:

"I am very satisfied with how you handled things today."

She remained neither arrogant nor humble, and she held firm to her principles. She neither indulged the greed of those people nor let Linlin suffer any injustice. That was enough.

But I have to be honest with you, these entanglements between relatives are more exhausting and harder to handle than the open and covert struggles in the business world.

You did the right thing by cutting off their hopes today, but behind their backs, some people will inevitably gossip, saying you've forgotten your roots, are heartless, and that you've abandoned your relatives now that you're successful. You have to bear these rumors and not take them to heart.

Having lived half a lifetime, he had witnessed countless schemes and entanglements among relatives and knew the difficulties involved. He also specifically reminded Yu Chenzhou to be mentally prepared.

He paused, took a sip of tea, and looked calmly at Yu Chenzhou, every word coming from the bottom of his heart:

"These kinds of troubles may come knocking again in the future. Some people will plead for you indirectly, while others will use gossip to morally blackmail you."

You must remember the principle of "helping in an emergency, not in a life of poverty".

If a family member is seriously ill or suffers a sudden accident, we should help them wholeheartedly, without considering personal gain or loss; this is a matter of friendship and duty.

But we must not give in to those who try to exploit others and gain without effort, as is the case this time.

His tone was solemn:

"Poverty is not scary; what is scary is being content with poverty, lacking ambition, and wanting to take shortcuts."

This kind of intellectual poverty can only save them temporarily, not forever; on the contrary, it will only embolden them to take advantage of you.

A clean and decisive refusal is not only a responsible act towards them, making them face reality, but also a way to protect our own lives.

Song Shuwan gently patted Xiao Yilin's hand, her face showing approval, and echoed:

"Tianhe is right."

It's not that our family lacks the ability to help, nor that we are heartless, but we absolutely cannot indulge this greedy nature.

Affection is mutual; it's a give-and-take relationship where both parties cherish each other, rather than one side constantly taking and the other giving unconditionally.

They only think about taking advantage of you, never considering your hard work and sacrifices over the years. They are ungrateful. It's better to keep a proper distance from such relatives to avoid causing yourself trouble.

Xiao Yilin also held Yu Chenzhou's hand tightly, her eyes filled with determination and tenderness, and said softly:

"No matter what happens in the future, I will be with you."

Whether it's gossip or nagging from relatives, we'll face it together; you don't have to bear it all alone.

Yu Chenzhou felt a warmth spread through his body as he looked into Xiao Tianhe and Song Shuwan's sincere eyes, and felt Xiao Yilin's tight hand and gentle companionship beside him. His tone was sincere and firm, and his eyes were full of clarity and certainty.

"Thank you, Dad and Mom."

I not only keep your saying "help in an emergency, not in poverty" in mind, but I also understand the nuances and wisdom behind it.

Upholding principles is not heartless; distinguishing between urgent needs and greed is true wisdom.

Refusing unreasonable demands is not about forgetting your roots; maintaining a clear sense of boundaries is the best way to cherish family ties.

Rest assured, I will not let these entanglements throw me off balance, nor will I let gossip dampen my sincerity, and I will not condone the trend of getting something for nothing. I will uphold my principles and live up to your trust.

Xiao Tianhe looked at Yu Chenzhou, a smile of approval on his face, his tone full of satisfaction:

"It's good that you can figure it out."

The most important thing for a family is to be of one mind, support each other, and understand each other.

If you encounter any problems you can't solve in the future, whether it's harassment from relatives or difficulties at work, don't bear it alone. Tell your family, and we'll deal with it together. Your mother and I only have Linlin as our daughter, and we will always be your strongest support.

He stood up and walked to Yu Chenzhou's side, patting him on the shoulder, his tone becoming increasingly earnest:

That makes sense.

You are my son-in-law, and also a member of our family. You don't have to shoulder this burden alone.

I'm always here to lend a hand, whether it's in business or in personal relationships; just ask.

"As a family, if we stick together, there's nothing we can't solve."

As dusk deepened, the glow of sunset spilled into the living room, gently enveloping the room in warmth.

The conversation in the living room was full of warmth and expectations, revealing the most sincere understanding and support among family members.

Yu Chenzhou looked at the people around him, saw Xiao Yilin's soft posture of subconsciously protecting her lower abdomen, and saw the approval and certainty in the eyes of Xiao Tianhe and his wife, and felt more and more at ease.

The troubles caused by his relatives have long since vanished. He deeply understands that this kinship of mutual respect and support is the most precious refuge.