Standing Next To You-Chapter 435: The Lin family, four years later

It was the beginning of spring. The branches that had withered during autumn began to sprout new leaves, and early flowers started to bloom. The once dormant landscape was slowly awakening, filling the world with vibrant colors.

In this beautiful weather, the gates of the Lin family estate were wide open, welcoming guests from across the country and around the globe.

Today marked Old Master Lin’s 74th birthday. Among all the celebrations in previous years, this was by far the most extravagant banquet the Lin family had ever hosted. From luxurious décor to lavish cuisine and opulent entertainment, no expense was spared in preparing for the occasion.

Over the past four years, the Lin family had undergone a dramatic transformation. The five branches that once vied for power had been reduced to two, leaving the first and fourth branches in fierce competition for the inheritance.

The first branch, once a major contender, had completely absorbed the fifth branch after its heir, Lin Xiaoni, became officially engaged to Richard from the Simon family two years ago. With no heir left to claim the inheritance, the fifth branch threw its full support behind the first branch. fгee𝑤ebɳoveɭ.cøm

Meanwhile, the second branch, once second in power, suddenly ceded its authority to the fourth branch that same year. This led to a significant family rift, culminating in Lin Fang’s falling out with his son, Lin Fei.

Even though rumors of the drama between father and son had spread widely, no one knew the true reason behind their falling out.

But the surprises didn’t stop there. Later that same year, the third branch suddenly announced its voluntary merger with the fourth branch, publicly declaring their support.

With backing from both the second and third branches, the fourth branch naturally grew in power, enabling it to sustain a prolonged struggle against the first branch.

As the rivalry between the two branches intensified, the public showed more interest in the Lin family’s internal struggle.

One of the reasons why tonight’s banquet was so packed was because the guests were eager to witness firsthand which side held the upper hand.

As they awaited for Head Master Lin’s entrance, the guests’ eyes frequently darted toward the two tables at the front, where both factions sat surrounded by well-wishers.

"Young Master Lin Zhe, I heard about your success with the new branch opening in Country F. Congratulations."

"Thank you. I also heard about your son’s recent marriage—congratulations to you as well."

"Are you still seeking collaborators for your new project? We just wrapped up a major initiative and are very interested in your current plans."

"Thank you for your offer. I’ll certainly consider it."

"Young Master Lin Zhe, will you have time later? There are several people I’d like to introduce you to."

"I might be able to make some time later. I’ll see what I can do."

Lin Zhe responded graciously, smiling as he addressed each inquiry. He was polite but maintained a careful distance—offering no commitments, yet avoiding outright refusals.

He dared not act recklessly or arrogantly, knowing he needed to cultivate as many connections as possible to surpass the rising power of the fourth branch.

As he entertained the guests around him, Lin Zhe’s eyes flickered toward the table next to his, which was far more crowded.

His gaze darkened.

Unlike the guests at his own table, who seemed mediocre and not worth the invitation, the people gathered at that table were renowned figures he had long wanted to collaborate with.

Over the years, the fourth branch had grown into a power that even made Lin Zhe feel threatened. He had never felt such a level of threat even from Lin Fei and the second branch in the past.

"Young Master Lin Sanju, I heard you recently secured a contract with Phoenix Holdings. It’s notoriously difficult to get an investment from them. May I ask—what’s your secret?"

The guests at the table burst into laughter at the boldness of the question.

"How shameless of you to ask that! Everyone knows that getting Phoenix Holdings’ attention is a sign of future success. We’re all working hard to catch their eye, and here you are, fishing for someone else’s magic formula," one guest joked, eliciting more laughter.

"There’s really nothing much to it," Lin Sanju replied in a deep, even tone.

The past four years had made him grow taller, his voice deepened, and the boyish look he once had vanished. He was now a mature young man, carrying himself with the confidence and composure of an unwavering adult.

"Phoenix Holdings saw potential in my projects and reached out to me. If your proposal satisfies their criteria, they’ll send you an invitation too." He added.

"How impressive, Young Master Lin Sanju," another guest chimed in. "You’re still so young, yet you’ve already surpassed many of us in terms of achievements. Head Master Lin must be incredibly proud."

"Indeed," someone else added. "It’s no wonder so many of the younger generation look up to you. You’re a true leader—the best of your generation."

Lin Sanju paused at the compliment.

The best of his generation?

A certain figure appeared in his mind.

He chuckled softly, "I’m afraid I’m not."

There were people out there making names for themselves on a global scale. Not just one, but two remarkable individuals. Compared to those monstrous geniuses, he was merely a runner-up, never destined to take first or second place.

Thinking about those people, Lin Sanju glanced at the tables behind him.

He had heard that his grandfather sent ’her’ an invitation again this year, even going as far as pressuring Lin Ginxian to bring her today.

But would she come? It would be a shame if she didn’t, especially because there was a possibility ’he’ might attend as well.

By chance, Lin Sanju had found one of ’his’ close contacts and, through that connection, had sent an invitation to today’s banquet.

Up until three days ago, he thought there was no chance ’he’ would show up. After all, this person had stayed hidden for so long before resurfacing and making a name for himself abroad.

It had been four years since they last saw each other. Surely, the other party had forgotten about them or he might felt indifferent toward the brief time they’d spent together.

However, Lin Sanju was surprised when he received an email from the contact. Both the contact and ’that’ person would be arriving in C Country today.

A flicker of hope stirred within Lin Sanju. There was only a small chance, but it was a chance nonetheless.

He had immediately passed this information along to ’her’, but so far, there had been no reply.

Hopefully, ’she’ would come today.

"...I heard that people from Phoenix Holdings will be attending today. Did you invite them, Young Master?"

Lin Sanju’s wandering thoughts paused as someone addressed him again.

"I did," he replied. "But I’m not sure if they’ll actually come."

"I see. If they do, would you introduce us to them? We would be deeply grateful, Young Master." The people at his table looked at him with eager anticipation, clearly hoping for a favorable answer.

Lin Sanju smiled politely, "...I’ll try. But you all know how selective they are about who they meet. I can introduce you, but catching their attention will be up to you."

The guests expressed their gratitude, and the atmosphere around the table remained bright and lively.