Translator:
Atlas Studios
Editor:
Atlas Studios
Du Ruo and Grandpa Du had gone to a Traditional Chinese Medicine exchange in Fuzhou. Once she heard of the kidnapping, Du Ruo had prescribed and sent over various supplements for general wellness for Xinya. She was pleasantly surprised by the effects of these herbs—particularly on her insomnia caused by the pressure from the homecoming party.
Having observed that she had buried herself in books and videos on etiquette and parties, Grampy engaged an etiquette instructor for her.
This prominent instructor was known by the media as the epitome of elegance—Zhou Huiyan had been on the Hollywood red carpet several times and was almost the face of Country Z’s entertainment industry. Owing to her perfect image, she had been invited to many exclusive local parties and would be more attuned to such high-profile parties.
Granny had been acquainted with Zhou Huiyan in her younger days. Seeing that she had been under tremendous pressure from the party, Grampy had specially engaged Zhou Huiyan to coach her on etiquette.
Now in her fifties, Ms. Zhou Huiyan still had the classy demeanor of a lady in her thirties—each of her actions so oddly captivating. Wen Xinya was greatly impressed seeing that her aura was more astonishing in person than on TV.
Wen Xinya was in great awe and respect towards the refined and graceful senior.
What are your thoughts on my etiquette demonstrations for the past few days?
Zhou Huiyan flashed a pleasant smile on her gentle face, like a breath of fresh air, her tone delicate and pleasant.
Previously, she had agreed to give Wen Xinya etiquette lessons on account of her friendship with Old Mr. Mo and Yuqian. However, she was pleasantly surprised when she saw the young lady—at a tender age, she was already beaming with a style which, integrated into etiquette, would fill her movements with poise and resilience. At first glance, she could tell that Wen Xinya was a piece of unpolished jade—upon careful refinement, she would one day blossom into an exceptional, unique beauty.
It seems like you’ve perfectly explained these etiquette rules; however, they didn’t enhance your elegance. Moreover, I can never attain your state of cultivation—how your every dewy word and action touches the soul.
Wen Xinya frowned. She had never met anyone who embodied etiquette to such flawless perfection.
Zhou Huiyan smiled.
That’s about right. Actually, you have good etiquette foundation and don’t need extra learning. These demonstrations of my etiquette serve as a reference of the model etiquette for you to reflect and correct your shortfalls. The etiquette rules have always been guidelines, and there is no need for you to mirror everything. Only through your own interpretation can you truly condition yourself, forming your very own characteristic style—you’re doing great at this, and there is no need to go out of your way to change.
She had great potential and was neither conceited nor rash; was not easily influenced, neither was she aloof and detached; she did not blindly follow the masses, nor was she too high-minded to be popular—she could weather harsh storms and steady streams and remain rock-solid. With these qualities instilled deep within her, she constantly beamed with a style of poise and resilience.
Your advice trumps years of reading!
Wen Xinya was not exaggerating—Zhou Huiyan’s words had indeed enlightened her on etiquette. To handle and understand the etiquette guidelines instead of using them as a facade of elegance—internalization was far superior to externalization.
Zhou Huiyan nodded discreetly—she was indeed intelligent.
We’re days from your homecoming party, and there is nothing more I can impart you. We’ll spend the remaining time going through pointers regarding such high-profile parties.
Wen Xinya’s eyes gleamed—that was precisely what she needed at this point. Though the capital city was huge, there were few such high-profile parties which gathered the elites from all notable fields, and Old Master Zhou was an expert in the area.
Zhou Huiyan said,
Firstly, you’re the star of the homecoming party, so you’ve got to showcase your unique charm and keep all eyes on you at all times. This requires more than perfect etiquette, it also depends on how you adapt to different situations on the ground.
Wen Xinya listened intently and began to realize the difficulty of keeping the focus of thousands on herself.
Yes, I’m the eldest daughter of the Wen Family, but given the profiles of the distinguished and famous guests in attendance, I’m afraid it will be hard to remain in the spotlight!
Zhou Huiyan agreed.
Based on your current standard, it will be impossible.
She was too amateurish—so what if she was extraordinary? Each of the thousands of guests was special, many of whom were more exceptional than her. Had she been merely a daughter from a distinguished family garnering attention purely due to her background, it would have been understandable even if she went unnoticed.
On the other hand, having led a wandering life for 15 years, she had an unglamorous past. Old Mr. Wen’s support would be for naught if she could not put up a good show and change everyone’s perceptions. She would then forever carry the mark on her heritage. The homecoming party was plainly a dinner of approval!
She had to gain the acceptance of everyone present. It was the only way she could secure her position in the circle!
What should I do?
Wen Xinya had been aware of her circumstances long ago. Thus, she regarded the homecoming party with utmost importance.
Grinning, Zhou Huiyan said,
You’ll start from shifting your attitude—keep in mind that you’re the host and highlight of the homecoming party and not a guest, so you don’t have to be so formal! Remember that you’re 15, not 25; thus, it’s not required for you to act all demure and dignified. You’re but a young girl, as long as you spread your youthful spirit and passionate positivity to everyone, you will succeed.
Wen Xinya’s eyes lit up with hope.
Since I can’t appeal to them with charm, I will present my enthusiastic liveliness.
Wen Xinya’s face brightened.
Seizing opportunities!
Affirmative.
Zhou Huiyan added,
You can start from the banquet arrangements.
Wen Xinya’s head was already flooded with ideas that she could not wait to discuss with the public relations. She was extremely grateful towards Zhou Huiyan—issues which had plagued her for days had been solved.
Thank you so much, Teacher Zhou!
Zhou Huiyan flashed a big smile.
Teacher Zhou is waiting to see you shine at the homecoming party.
With a sincere and sweet smile, Wen Xinya replied,
I will not disappoint you.
