Stark contrast

As the resounding applause gradually died down, Li Na stepped forward, her eyes as gorgeous as ever. With the microphone in hand, she brought it close to her lips.

"I must admit," she began, her voice laced with playful humor, "when I sat down at the piano earlier, I thought my hands had gotten a bit rusty from lack of practice."

The audience chuckled, greatly interested in what she was going to say next.

"But," Li Na continued, a mischievous grin spreading across her face, "as soon as I began playing, it seems my hands had a different idea! They were dancing across the keys like they had a life of their own!"

Laughter erupted throughout the hall, thanks to Li Na's infectious energy.

Ning Yu, sitting in her seat, couldn't help but beam with pride as she watched Li Na take the stage. Her eyes glistened with admiration, resembling a proud mom watching her baby's shining moment.

Ning Yu couldn't contain her excitement. She leaned forward, her lips curling into a pouty, smiley expression, her cheeks slightly flushed with joy.

"I guess even my hands couldn't resist the opportunity to perform for such a wonderful audience," Li Na quipped. "They simply couldn't resist the chance to entertain all of you tonight!"

Li Na expressed her gratitude to the audience, saying, "Thank you all for being amazing," before taking a bow and gracefully exiting the stage.

The echoes of applause followed her as she stepped off the stage.

As Li Na gracefully made her way back to her seat, she caught Ning Yu's gaze fixed upon her, resembling a puppy mesmerized by its beloved owner. Li Na couldn't help smiling, she asked, "What's with that look?"

Ning Yu's eyes sparkled with pride as she replied, "I'm so proud of you, Li Na! Why didn't you ever mention that you could play the piano?"

Li Na shrugged playfully and replied, "Where's the fun in that? Surprises are much more exciting, don't you think?"

Ning Yu chuckled and leaned closer, her voice filled with playful mischief. "It seems like my influence is rubbing off on you. Look at you being cheeky."

As Li Na and Ning Yu engaged in their conversation, the host continued to guide the proceedings in the background. The banquet was off to a splendid start, and Li Na's performance had set a high bar for the rest of the evening.

On the opposite side of the room, Li Jing's gaze burned with intense hatred as she observed Li Na's shining moment. If only looks could kill, Li Na would have been struck down by a hundred invisible daggers.

Meanwhile, Xing Fei stood nearby, her mouth agape in astonishment. When did Li Na become so good? Wasn't she just a social outcast, a mere loser? Xing Fei's eyes flickered between Li Jing and Li Na, the stark contrast between them too obvious to ignore.

Li Na possessed talent but also an undeniable charm and beauty. Leaving those around her in awe. On the other hand, Li Jing appeared like a desperate pretender, striving to match Li Na's radiance but falling short at every turn.

Xing Fei's mind raced with confusion. When did things become like this? How did Li Na transform from an underdog to a shining star? The realization struck her.

As the banquet kicked off, Li Yifeng found himself surrounded by a group of influential businessmen. The air was filled with discussions of financial matters, investments, and potential partnerships. However, amidst the serious conversations, some of the businessmen couldn't help but divert their attention to the topic of Li Na, the star of the evening.

Li Yifeng, initially caught off guard by the sudden shift in topic, paused for a brief moment. With his composure regained, he replied with a warm smile, "Thank you for your kind words. Yes, Li Na never fails to surprise us. She has an innate ability to captivate the audience and bring joy to those around her."

If Li Na had heard him say that, she would have puked. He didn't know anything about her and was just saying whatever he could to gain access to high society.

The businessmen nodded appreciatively, their gazes filled with admiration. Li Yifeng continued, "Her passion and determination to excel have been evident since she was young. We have always encouraged her to pursue her dreams and explore her talents. Seeing her shine tonight fills my heart with immense joy and pride."

The businessmen exchanged impressed glances, recognizing the value of nurturing talent and the importance of family support.