The Male Lead Has Intense Tastes

The rise of the old patriarch, Master Lin, signaled that this matter was drawing to a close. Although Lin Qingyan was indeed the current head of the Lin family, in everyone's eyes, the true decision-maker was still Master Lin. He was the one who could make the final call. However, everyone was actually waiting for a spectacle because, either way, the Lin family was destined to become a laughingstock. 

Whether trying to please Qin Yu or Su Chen, in the end, they'd be caught between a rock and a hard place. Moreover, the Lin family was currently suffering significant losses. Therefore, regardless of the outcome, the Lin family's glory days were over.

In the expectant gaze of the audience, Master Lin's face now lacked the earlier signs of impatience and anger. He had returned to his usual calm demeanor. Although his expression was serene, the depth of his eyes glittered with authority and wisdom. 

"Qingyan, you've worked hard, and we're fortunate to have you," Master Lin said, looking at Lin Qingyan with evident admiration, making no effort to hide his affection for her. "Hypocrite!" Su Chen noticed this. Frankly, he looked down on such individuals. Actually, for both Su Chen and Lin Qingyan, the one they should be most resentful of was this old man.

Lin Qingyan, however, didn't seem elated by Master Lin's praise. "Grandfather, it's nothing," she said, "It's just that some people have overstepped their bounds." She took the initiative, suspecting Qin Yu's intentions. 

"If I'm not mistaken, Qin Yu not only wants to take over the Lin family but may even try to force me into marrying him." Lin Qingyan, being a seasoned CEO, was incredibly astute. With these words, she seemed to close off any retreat for the Lin family. 

Master Lin was stunned. Though he realized Lin Qingyan was unhappy with Qin Yu, he couldn't understand why she'd reject someone as good as Qin Yu in favor of Su Chen, who was merely a prodigal young master.

By any measure, Su Chen was no match for Qin Yu. Although Qin Yu intended to use the Lin family as a stepping stone, Master Lin wasn't concerned. If they could overthrow the Su family, the Lin family would reap even greater benefits. 

But, if they continued to follow Su Chen, they wouldn't reach that level. Lin Qingyan should see this, so why was she so resistant? After a pause, he finally made a decision. "Young friend Qin Yu, could you please explain yourself?" At this moment, all eyes turned to Qin Yu, whose expression betrayed a mix of fear and confusion. But above all, there was rage.

This surge of anger seemed to have thrown him off balance. He blurted out angrily, "Isn't Su Chen also at fault?" "The discussions between Chen Dalong and I were merely about how to counter Su Chen's plans. We absolutely had no intentions towards the Lin family," Qin Yu tried to bring Chen Dalong into the fray.

"Hmph, you think you can just get rid of me? If I'm going through this, you, Chen Dalong, won't escape either." The reason Qin Yu dared to act this way was because he was not the least bit afraid of Chen Dalong seeking revenge. This was because Chen Tong was now his lover. With Qin Yu's statement out in the open, everyone was curious to see how Chen Dalong would react.

At that moment, Chen Dalong's face was extremely unpleasant. He hadn't expected Qin Yu to pin the blame on him. Being in the Lin family's territory now, if he didn't provide a satisfactory answer and if the Lin family truly decided to break ties, things could become perilous. Just as Chen Dalong was at a loss, the sound of a woman's laughter echoed through the room. 

Without guessing, Su Chen knew it was Chen Tong making her entrance. "Damn it, this is so far from my original plan," he thought. Su Chen was utterly dumbfounded. After all the hard work he put into devising a brilliant strategy, how had he suddenly become an outsider? It felt like this entire situation had nothing to do with him.

When Chen Tong, with her captivating allure, appeared, the attendees were stunned by her beauty. It wasn't hard to deduce her identity - she was the one in charge of the renowned Chen family in the city. Chen Tong glanced at Su Chen and noticed that he had once again retreated to a dim corner. 

However, seeing Su Chen's bewildered expression seemed to lift her spirits considerably. Chen Tong laughed and said, "Miss Lin, you're truly astute. We only wanted to play a little joke on you." "If you don't mind, I have a seaside property in the city worth several billions. If you want, I can compensate you with it."

Giving away a property worth billions just like that? It seemed like a complete joke. Even for the ten major families, giving away such a huge sum of money for no reason seemed unthinkable. But for Chen Tong, money wasn't of utmost importance. She wasn't too surprised that Lin Qingyan had uncovered her plans. 

After all, the reason Lin Qingyan had such comprehensive evidence was due to Chen Tong's contribution. Moreover, Chen Tong made it clear she was offering the property to Lin Qingyan, not the entire Lin family. The members of the Lin family picked up on this subtlety, leaving them somewhat speechless. It was clear in Chen Tong's eyes that Lin Qingyan was already being regarded as the head of the Lin family.

Lin Qingyan observed Chen Tong, and the hostility in her eyes remained unabated. Chen Tong's recent close interactions with Su Chen had sowed seeds of jealousy in her heart. Lin Qingyan glanced around the crowd and spotted Su Chen, who was keeping to himself. "Hmph, stinky man, always out flirting with others," she thought. 

Yet, she didn't call Su Chen out. If Su Chen wanted to play games, she'd indulge him. "Miss Chen Tong, we can indeed let this matter rest, on the terms you've mentioned," Lin Qingyan began. After a brief pause, she continued, "I believe Miss Chen Tong was also deceived by Qin Yu; otherwise, she wouldn't have acted in this manner." Lin Qingyan's seemingly casual statement caused another wave of murmurs and speculations among the attendees. Yet, Chen Tong merely responded with a laugh.

It turned out that Lin Qingyan's thoughts were exactly in line with hers, fitting perfectly with her intentions. The observant attendees could easily discern a certain unspoken understanding between Lin Qingyan and Chen Tong, the two outstanding women. However, they were clueless about what this understanding truly signified behind the scenes. 

Su Chen, on the other hand, knew all too well - these two women were teaming up against him! Yet, Qin Yu, our main man, had not fully grasped the situation. He couldn't believe that Chen Tong would ever give up on him, especially after they had just confirmed their relationship in the restroom. 

He cast an expectant glance at Chen Tong, hoping she would come to his aid. However, she never shifted her gaze towards him. Instead, she took Lin Qingyan's hand and said with a smile, "Miss Lin truly understands the bigger picture. There are indeed some people trying to stir up trouble." Though Chen Tong didn't specify, everyone knew she was referring to Qin Yu.

Through their coordinated interaction, Lin Qingyan and Chen Tong instantly painted Qin Yu as the root of all evil. The swift resolution between the two might seem surprising, but it was quite simple - the main point of contention was interest. 

Now that Chen Tong was willing to compensate with so much money, all conflicts could be immediately resolved. People didn't expect Chen Tong to be so generous, so willing, to give away such a huge fortune without a hint of hesitation. 

Betraying Qin Yu was the easy part; in essence, it was all about interests. Among the insiders present, there were several who were utterly perplexed. The patriarch, Old Master Lin, was stunned. 

He hadn't anticipated that the prestigious Chen family from the city would completely abandon Qin Yu. Not just him, even Chen Fan and Chen Dalong were bewildered, especially Chen Dalong.

However, he wasn't angered, in fact, he seemed somewhat pleased. His distaste for Qin Yu had long been festering, and he held a deep-seated loathing for him. Qin Yu's recent actions only solidified his disdain, leaving no room for hope. Chen Dalong had restrained himself only because of his daughter, Chen Tong. 

He seemingly realized that Chen Tong didn't fancy Qin Yu as much as he had thought. Instead, Chen Dalong cast a glance at Su Chen, who had been silent for a long while. His gaze then shifted to Qin Yu, but it was devoid of the previous warmth, replaced with a murderous intent. Even a seasoned person like Qin Yu felt a twinge of fear. 

The most significant reason was that he was still in a state of shock. So much had transpired in just a matter of minutes, leaving him overwhelmed. First, his plan to take over the Lin family was exposed. 

Now, even Chen Dalong bore a grudge against him, which essentially meant he had offended Chen Dalong as well. Qin Yu's expression darkened considerably, becoming apprehensive of his current predicament. Above all, what truly frightened him was Chen Tong's change of heart. It was entirely different from what he had envisioned.

He didn't understand why Chen Tong would treat him this way. What had happened in between that he hadn't fully grasped? Qin Yu had an absolute confidence in himself. During his time abroad, he had effortlessly manipulated multi-billion dollar corporations at his whim. 

However, after returning to his homeland, he admittedly became a bit complacent, facing several setbacks. But this time, he had crafted the perfect plan, and in the midst of it all, Chen Tong had even agreed to his requests. If everything proceeded smoothly, Su Chen would be reduced to a vagabond, and he would emerge as the savior of the Lin family. 

Perhaps, members of the Lin family might even willingly offer up their revered goddess to him, and then, he would humiliate Su Chen. After securing the Lin family, given the relationship between Lin Qingyan and Su Chen, he would declare war on the Su family. 

By then, other influential families would certainly join the fray, ensuring the downfall of the Su family. His ultimate desire was to crush Su Chen underfoot, letting him witness how Lin Qingyan was manipulated by him.

However, an unexpected snag emerged, and Qin Yu's face grew increasingly distorted. Where had things gone wrong? While Qin Yu was troubled, Su Chen, on the other side, seemed even more agitated. It was over. 

The two women, Lin Qingyan and Chen Tong, were teaming up against him! How was he to deal with this situation? In the original story, this banquet was Qin Yu's golden opportunity to rise to prominence, especially with him claiming Su Chen's fiancée, Lin Qingyan. 

But now, even though Qin Yu did gain some notoriety, it felt more like infamy. Throughout, Lin Qingyan showed no signs of blaming Chen Tong. True to his protagonist status, Qin Yu instantly became the object of resentment. Qin Yu was genuinely scared and uncertain of how to salvage the situation. 

However, he quickly regained his composure, realizing that the situation wasn't entirely hopeless. As long as Chen Tong sided with him, everything could still turn around. Although his plan had failed, with the backing of the Chen family from the city, he would still have immense influence.

"This whole situation is based on unfounded accusations. Chen Tong and I only acted against the Lin family due to a misunderstanding," Qin Yu declared confidently, not betraying any signs of panic in his eyes. 

He recalled Chen Tong mentioning his unique demeanor - that of confidence and calmness in the face of adversity. Even though he felt tremendous anxiety, he had to maintain his facade. While Chen Tong's earlier remarks seemed distancing, Qin Yu was still convinced she would support him. 

After all, during their private conversation in the restroom, he sensed genuine affection from Chen Tong. Just thinking about winning over a woman of Chen Tong's caliber made Qin Yu's smile even brighter, filled with a profound sense of accomplishment.

A flash of anger appeared in Chen Tong's eyes. She never imagined Qin Yu could be so shameless. Despite everything being laid out clearly, he still had the audacity to cling on. Chen Tong's disdain was palpable. She wasn't one to suppress her emotions. 

A crisp slap rang out in the midst of the banquet. Su Chen was the first to react. Chen Tong had actually slapped Qin Yu. "Watch your words, or I won't be so kind!" she warned. "There's nothing between us." Chen Tong was no ordinary woman and didn't hesitate in her actions. 

That slap was so fierce that even the now more formidable Qin Yu struggled to bear it, his cheek immediately swelling red. It was a sight to behold.

Qin Yu was livid. His lips twitched as he roared at her, "Chen Tong! Have you gone mad, daring to hit me? Have you forgotten what you promised me?" Qin Yu's eyes were filled with uncontainable rage. 

But Chen Tong remained unyielding, and his fiery glare made her incredibly uncomfortable. She despised it when men looked at her with such lecherous eyes. "I never promised you anything," she snapped. "And those lewd eyes of yours? Save them for your mother!" Chen Tong spared Qin Yu no respect.

On the side, Su Chen was inwardly remarking, "My, aren't women full of double standards? Just because someone looked at you a little too long, you respond so fiercely? The things he's done to Chen Tong could make for quite a story." Observing this scene, the onlookers understood the situation. It seemed that Qin Yu had wanted to collaborate with Chen Tong against the Lin family. 

Chen Tong's motive was clear – she aimed to establish her influence in the capital city, a reason everyone could understand. But Qin Yu's objective, coveting Lin Qingyan, was utterly disgraceful. Leveraging her considerable capabilities, Lin Qingyan quickly discerned the conspiracy and halted its progression. 

Now, it seemed Chen Tong had paid a hefty price for her actions, gifting a business venture worth billions to Lin Qingyan. It appeared she was preparing to ditch Qin Yu. Was the Chen family from the metropolitan city looking to discard Qin Yu like an old tool? 

Or did Qin Yu and the illustrious Chen family never actually have any real connection? Either way, Qin Yu had lost his backing. Everyone pondered how Lin Qingyan would handle him now.

Not involved in the debacle themselves, the spectators mockingly gazed at Qin Yu. For a moment, he became the butt of the joke.

Watching Qin Yu be humiliated like this, Su Chen suddenly felt a sense of satisfaction. "Qin Yu, anything else you'd like to say?" Lin Qingyan's eyes held not even a hint of disdain; instead, they were utterly indifferent. Yet, that very indifference struck a devastating blow to Qin Yu's spirit. 

Clenching his fists and gritting his teeth, he hadn't anticipated Chen Tong abandoning him. They had promised undying devotion, and now it had come to this? Of course, he was confident he could leave unscathed; the Lin family wouldn't dare harm him. But leaving this way felt even more humiliating. Nevertheless, Qin Yu felt he had no choice.

Just then, an enchanting voice sounded from behind Qin Yu. "Stop it, everyone! Qin Yu is my lover, and I won't allow you to treat him like this." Su Chen, who had been enjoying the spectacle, couldn't help but laugh upon hearing this. 

With each step the newcomer took, the ground trembled. "Damn it, why did Ye Lanxiang have to show up?" he thought. "And it seems like there's some hidden history between her and Qin Yu, the male protagonist. How much more twisted can this plot get?" Su Chen had a feeling the drama was far from over.

Ye Lanxiang! Su Chen had heard of her. She was the younger sister of the main antagonist of the story, Ye Haotian. Fiery and fierce, she was no less ruthless than her brother. She once set a massive fire that killed countless children, all to frame Lin Qingyan. 

It seemed Qin Yu had eventually defeated her, but now there seemed to be some unresolved tension between them. Was that fire part of Qin Yu's machinations?

Upon hearing Ye Lanxiang's voice, Qin Yu instinctively mistook her for Chen Tong. "As expected, I knew you wouldn't abandon me, my love!" Qin Yu proclaimed with confidence as he turned around. 

He intended to make the most of the moment, even though he hadn't wanted his relationship with Chen Tong to be revealed, as he had other women he wanted to woo. But now, saving face was more important. Qin Yu closed his eyes, expectantly waiting for a heartfelt confession in return.

"Qin Yu, I love you too!" What followed wasn't the declaration he anticipated, but instead, a surge of immense power rushing toward him. Before he knew it, he was lifted off the ground, creating a comical scene. 

Ye Lanxiang, towering over Qin Yu by more than twice his size, was now holding him in her arms. Su Chen was utterly dumbfounded. "My God, is Qin Yu seriously trying to woo someone as ruthless as Ye Lanxiang? The protagonist has lost it." 

Then, to Su Chen's horror, a scene unfolded that would probably leave him unable to eat for days: Ye Lanxiang, clutching Qin Yu, began to shower him with fervent kisses. At this moment, even Qin Yu realized that something was very wrong.

Suddenly, Qin Yu's eyes flew open, confronted with a massive face he would never forget in his lifetime. He tried to push away Ye Lanxiang, but her nearly 880-pound body firmly ensnared him, rendering him helpless. Qin Yu felt as though he was on the verge of suffocation.

Yet, the onlookers were so preoccupied with mocking him that they completely overlooked Qin Yu's distress. Only Su Chen, with a dramatic change in his expression, shouted, "Miss Ye Lanxiang, if you don't let go now, your beloved will suffocate to death!" Snapping back to reality, Ye Lanxiang immediately released Qin Yu. 

Gratefully, he gulped in fresh air, but this action inadvertently led to another misunderstanding on Ye Lanxiang's part. "My sweet Qin Yu, do you want another kiss from me? Silly boy," she teased before leaning in to kiss him again. 

The scene was so comical that the audience erupted in laughter. Even Lin Lao Ye, who had always supported Qin Yu, couldn't help but chuckle at the sight. 

"Excuse me, miss," Chen Tong intervened with a smile, "We understand the depth of your love, but could you refrain from such public displays of affection?"

However, her intervention infuriated Ye Lanxiang. "You vixen, trying to seduce my man! I won't let you all off the hook today!" Ye Lanxiang's fists clenched, her knuckles cracking ominously. She had long held resentment towards Chen Tong, especially after noticing the affection in Qin Yu's eyes when he looked at her. 

In Ye Lanxiang's mind, Qin Yu's deepest affections belonged to her, and she believed Chen Tong had bewitched him. So, in her anger, she roared at Chen Tong. Then she glared at everyone present, "All of you, remember this face! You will regret mocking me." The mere mention of Ye Lanxiang's name silenced the laughter in the room. 

These high-society elites were familiar with her infamous reputation. She was known for her ruthlessness, willing to go to any lengths to achieve her objectives. This was the terrifying nature of the Ye siblings. Especially Ye Lanxiang, who acted without considering the consequences. Countless people had suffered catastrophic losses after crossing her.