The distance from the private runway to the mansion entrance stretched across manicured lawns and neat stone pathways weaving through gentle hills dotted with pine, plum, and flowering magnolias.
Lu Zhi Hao guided Wan Ruyi into the front cart, helping her settle before sliding in beside her and wrapping an arm protectively around her shoulders.
Behind them, Lu Ting Cheng, Lu Ting Zhou, and Lu Zi Zhen climbed into the second cart while Old Master Lu and Old Madam Lu rode in a third, their aides following discreetly behind.
As the carts glided down the paved road, Wan Ruyi leaned lightly into Lu Zhi Hao's side, her gaze drinking in the serene gardens unfolding around them.
Pink cherry blossoms drifted across the pathway in the cool breeze, their soft petals fluttering like blessings from heaven.
"This place feels like a dream," she whispered softly, but most importantly, she was returning to a place that had scarred her.
Lu Zhi Hao pressed a tender kiss to her temple, his deep voice vibrating warmly against her skin, "It ain't a dream, we are back and this is our home from today."
She turned to look up at him, her eyes glistening with unshed tears as the mansion's tall cedar and glass structure came into full view beyond the gentle rise of the slope.
Its modern elegance blended seamlessly into the natural landscape, evoking a quiet power and dignity.
Behind them, Lu Ting Cheng stretched an arm along the back of the cart seat lazily, glancing sideways at Lu Zi Zhen with a crooked grin. "Finally home, eh little prince?"
Zi Zhen only rolled his eyes but a faint smile played at his lips as he gazed at the approaching mansion, his heart filling with a cautious yet hopeful warmth.
At the front, the lead cart slowed to a graceful halt under the covered stone porte-cochère, carved with subtle dragon and phoenix motifs symbolising prosperity and harmony.
The drivers stepped out swiftly, opening the doors with bowed heads.
Lu Zhi Hao helped Ruyi down carefully, his arm remaining firm around her waist as they ascended the broad steps towards the tall gilded double doors now swinging open in silent welcome.
LU MANSION – FOYER & WALK THROUGH
Stepping through the gilded double doors, Wan Ruyi felt her breath catch softly.
The entrance opened into a vast grand foyer with polished cream marble floors and soaring ceilings adorned with minimalist chandelier installations of cascading crystal petals.
Soft recessed lights cast a gentle golden glow against the tall cedar panels lining the walls, giving the space an understated yet powerful elegance.
A delicate fragrance of white lilies and sandalwood drifted through the cool air, calming her senses.
Staff in sleek black uniforms stood bowed on either side of the entrance, greeting them in quiet unison.
"Welcome home, Old Master Lu, Old Madam Lu, Young Masters, Young Madam."
Lu Zhi Hao nodded calmly, his hand resting protectively at her waist as they walked forward at a measured pace.
Behind them, Lu Ting Cheng, Lu Ting Zhou, and Lu Zi Zhen followed, accompanied by Old Madam Lu and Old Master Lu who moved gracefully with quiet dignity.
As they walked deeper into the mansion, they passed a sunken lounge with cream sofas arranged around a black stone hearth, and tall glass walls revealing a glimpse of landscaped gardens blooming with early magnolias and peonies.
Ruyi's eyes shimmered as she took it all in, the warmth, the meticulous grace, the silent promise of a new life.
At the grand staircase, Old Madam Lu paused, patting her arm softly. "Your rooms are all ready. Go and rest, child. You need it after such a long flight."
"Thank you, Grandmother..."