Nicholas Bloomer had two daughters, both married to prominent city officials. The most outstanding of the third generation was Jason Bloomer’s eldest son, Sheldon Bloomer, who, despite his young age, had already become the head of the disciplinary inspection team at the Ministry of Justice, with a promising future ahead. However, he still fell short compared to Baldwin, who was exceptional for his age.
Jason Bloomer had another daughter besides his son. Jacob Bloomer had only one son. Jackson Bloomer, after his “son” drowned, never had any more children and seemed prepared to spend the rest of his life with his wife.
Learning about the Bloomer family’s situation did not stir much emotion in Leo. Even if he were truly Jackson Bloomer’s son, the worldly power and fame that would come with acknowledging his heritage held no appeal for Leo, a Cultivator. Most importantly, he had no emotional connection with the Bloomer family.
Three days later was the birthday of the Bloomer family’s matriarch. This year, following her wishes, the celebration was kept simple. Although the banquet was still held at a hotel, only family members were invited; no outsiders were allowed. For years, both the matriarch and patriarch had celebrated their birthdays with large gatherings, filled with friends and subordinates toasting them until they were dizzy. The matriarch had enough of it and requested only relatives this year. With fewer people, it was finally peaceful.
The banquet hall was decorated festively with red carpets. The tablecloths and chair covers were all red silk, embroidered with peaches and images of the Old Man of the South Pole, symbolizing good fortune. Nicholas Bloomer and the matriarch wore bright red outfits and sat side by side at the head table. The two white-haired elders looked spirited and dignified. However, during conversations, Nicholas Bloomer would occasionally doze off.
Outside, Jason Bloomer was welcoming relatives with his son and nephew. “Boring,” Xavier yawned, leaning against the wall in boredom. “You ungrateful brat! I’ll kick you!” Jacob glared at him angrily, signaling him to be quiet.
“Is everyone here?” Jason asked Sheldon, who was writing in the guest book nearby. “Everyone’s here,” Sheldon nodded. “Let’s start!” Jason called out, leading them into the hall.
“Director Bloomer, one more guest!” A loud voice suddenly came from outside the banquet hall doors. Josiah walked in briskly in a Zhongshan suit, followed by Baldwin, Harvey Chapmanson, and Leo.
“Josiah?!” Jason’s brow furrowed sharply as he said coldly, “I don’t believe we invited you.” Not only Jason but everyone in the hall was surprised to see Josiah. Due to past events, everyone knew that the Meredith family and the Bloomer family were not on good terms. Although they maintained a facade of civility, they privately disliked each other. Especially between Jason and Josiah, there was intense rivalry and almost no interaction, let alone attending each other’s celebrations.
So Josiah’s presence at the banquet was quite shocking. “Why can’t I come to wish the old lady a happy birthday?” Josiah asked with a smile. “I’m sorry, but today we are only hosting family members. Outsiders are not welcome. Please leave,” Jason said coldly to Josiah.
“Nicholas Bloomer sternly reprimanded him, “Guests are guests. Since they are here, we can’t just send them away. Josiah, come sit with me!” “Uncle Bloomer is still so understanding. It’s been years since we last met, yet you still look vigorous and healthy,” Josiah flattered him with a smile before turning to Old Mrs. Bloomer and saying cheerfully, “Auntie, I wish you a long life and happiness as vast as the southern mountains! Knowing it’s your birthday today, I specially prepared a grand gift for you.”
“Thank you, Josiah. Your presence alone makes me very happy,” Old Mrs. Bloomer responded gracefully, though she suspected Josiah had ulterior motives.
“Leo, bring the jade ruyi to the old lady!” Josiah commanded with a straight posture, glancing at Leo behind him.
Leo was slightly taken aback; he hadn’t expected Josiah to ask him to present the gift. “Go on,” Baldwin handed Leo a redwood box and gave him a meaningful look.
Leo glanced at Josiah with a complex expression before taking the box and walking towards Old Mrs. Bloomer.
Seeing Leo’s face caused a stir among those present, especially those familiar with Jackson Bloomer. They were all astonished by how much this young man resembled a young Jackson Bloomer!
When Josiah first entered, everyone’s attention was on him, so no one noticed Leo. Now that Josiah had Leo present the jade ruyi to Old Mrs. Bloomer, it was clear he wanted to draw everyone’s attention to Leo.
Jason and Jacob were also taken aback upon seeing Leo. They too thought he looked remarkably like their younger brother in his youth-almost as if they were carved from the same mold-and stood there momentarily stunned.
Nicholas and Old Mrs. Bloomer were even more shocked; their faces full of surprise as they stared unblinkingly at Leo. It was as if they were seeing a young Jackson Bloomer walking towards them.
Despite everyone’s astonished gazes, Leo remained calm and composed as he walked steadily towards Old Mrs. Bloomer. When he reached her, he bowed slightly and presented the box with both hands, saying clearly, “Grandmother, I wish you great fortune and all your wishes fulfilled!”
Old Mrs. Bloomer was too emotional to respond; her lips trembled as she stared at Leo with tears welling up in her eyes. If her beloved grandson were still alive, he would be this age and look just like this.
Leo called her gently again before placing the jade ruyi on the table in front of her.
“Leo, we’ve delivered the gift; let’s not stay for drinks,” Josiah said with a satisfied smile.
Leo glanced back at Josiah before turning to leave.
“Child!” Old Mrs. Bloomer suddenly grabbed Leo’s hand and asked emotionally, “Child, how old are you? What’s your name? Where are your parents from?” She couldn’t help but ask several questions in a row as a deep sense of familial bond surged within her heart; she had already begun to see Leo as her long-lost grandson.