In the golden autumn of 1991, a refreshing breeze carried the fragrance of osmanthus blossoms. Autumn was in full swing in Beijing; the ginkgo leaves lining the streets were a mesmerizing golden hue, swaying gently in the wind and scattering golden fragments across the ground. The moat's waters were crystal clear, reflecting the azure sky and the red maples along its banks—a truly picturesque scene. The official awards ceremony for the National Children's Dance Competition was held in the banquet hall of the Beijing Hotel during this crisp autumn season. Lin Wanqiu arrived early with her family, eager to witness her daughter, Chen Nianxi, standing on the podium as she received her award, etching this joy of growth into the family's cherished memories.
The Shen family's car slowly drove into the parking lot of the Beijing Hotel. This building, a blend of classical charm and modern style, boasted towering vermilion pillars, gleaming gilded plaques, and colorful flowers adorning the entrance, exuding both solemnity and joy. Lin Wanqiu sat in the car, looking at her family members, who were dressed impeccably, her eyes filled with a contented smile. She wore a champagne-colored silk dress, the hem embroidered with delicate patterns that shimmered softly in the sunlight; her long hair was styled in an elegant updo, adorned with a pearl hairpin, conveying both gentle grace and competence.
Shen Tingzhou, dressed in a dark gray suit, stood tall and straight, his brows softening with a gentler, more approachable air than usual. He turned to look at Lin Wanqiu, gently taking her hand in his, his voice tender: "Nervous? More so than when I was on an important mission back then."
Lin Wanqiu smiled and shook her head, her fingertips caressing the warmth of his palm: "I'm not nervous, I'm mostly happy. Watching Xixi grow from a little girl who used to cry a lot into a young lady who can stand on the national stage to receive awards fills my heart with pride." She paused, then turned to look at the two children in the back seat, her eyes full of tenderness, "And Nian'an, so outstanding and sensible. Our children have never let us down."
In the back seat, Shen Nianxi wore a pink princess dress with layers of skirt, like blooming peach blossoms. She clutched the silver trophy tightly in her arms, her face flushed, her eyes sparkling with excitement. Shen Nian sat beside her, wearing a white shirt and black trousers, his posture upright, a gentle smile on his face, patiently explaining the precautions for receiving the award to his younger sister.
"Brother, will I forget my lines when I go on stage later?" Shen Nianxi looked up, a hint of trepidation in her eyes. Although she had already won the silver award, she was still a little nervous at the thought of speaking in front of so many leaders, judges, and media.
Shen Nian'an patted her head and said with a smile, "No, Xixi has already memorized her speech very well. When the time comes, just look at your parents and me in the audience, and speak boldly, just like you practice."
Shen Tingzhou looked at his daughter in the rearview mirror and said firmly, "Xixi, don't be afraid. The fact that you can stand there is already a victory. No matter what, Dad and Mom are proud of you."
After the car came to a stop, the family walked side by side into the Beijing Hotel. At the entrance to the banquet hall, a bright red carpet was laid out, and promotional posters of the winning contestants were displayed on both sides. Shen Nianxi's photo was prominently featured; in the photo, she was wearing a dance dress, her smile radiant, attracting considerable attention. Many guests attending the ceremony cast envious glances their way.
"Is that Chen Nianxi? I heard she danced 'Jasmine Flower' exceptionally well and won a silver medal!"
"This family is so happy. The parents are so loving and the child is so outstanding. It's truly enviable!"
"I heard that her mother is the founder of 'Natural Taste'. Not only is she successful in her business, but she is also passionate about public welfare. She is truly an amazing woman!"
Hearing the whispers around her, Lin Wanqiu felt no pride or complacency, only overwhelming gratitude. She knew that everything she had achieved today had not come easily. From the initial struggle to survive with Nian'an after her rebirth, to her current happy family, successful career, and thriving children, only she truly knew the hardships and trials she had endured. And all of this was inseparable from Shen Tingzhou's support and companionship, from her children's hard work and understanding, and from all those who had helped her.
Stepping into the banquet hall, one is greeted by a dazzling display of lights and grandeur. A massive crystal chandelier hangs from the ceiling, refracting brilliant light; flowers and greenery adorn the walls, filling the air with their fragrance and a subtle aroma of wine; a bright red carpet covers the stage, and the backdrop prominently displays the words "National Children's Dance Competition Awards Ceremony" in large gold letters.
By this time, the banquet hall was already quite full of people, including the winning contestants and their families, the competition judges and leaders, and media reporters from all over the country. They gathered in small groups, chatting quietly, and the air was filled with a festive and warm atmosphere.
Lin Wanqiu and her family found seats near the front. Not long after they sat down, several judges and leaders from the organizers came over to congratulate them.
"Mrs. Shen, Mr. Shen, congratulations! Little Shen Nianxi is truly outstanding. Her dance is full of childlike innocence and vitality, leaving a deep impression on us." An elderly judge with gray hair said with a smile, his eyes full of praise.
"Thank you for your recognition, judges." Lin Wanqiu stood up and said with a smile, "This is all thanks to your excellent teaching and the organizers for providing such a wonderful platform for the children to showcase their talents."
Shen Tingzhou also stood up and shook hands with each of the judges: "Thank you all for your recognition of Xixi. We will encourage her to continue to work hard and live up to everyone's expectations."
Shen Nianxi also stood up obediently and bowed to the judges: "Thank you, judges! I will practice dancing even harder in the future and strive to dance even better!"
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