world's golden boy. Now, off to White Cloud City

Chen Yang watched Su Xinghe's unconscious form slumped in the chair. A sly smile peeked out from under his courteous mask. Sure, Su Ling's quick action might have lowered his potential reward, but a smart businessman knows when to cut his losses.

"Well, well, Miss Su," he chuckled, his voice still smooth as silk. "Seems you've mastered the art of the well-placed chop! Used it on your brother a few times before?" His eyes danced with amusement.

Su Ling's cheeks flushed crimson at Chen Yang's words. Shame and a flicker of defiance warred in her eyes as she mumbled a reply. "Well, you see," she began, her voice barely audible, "Brother can get a little out of hand sometimes, especially with wine. He just... doesn't know his limits. So, I had to give him a little... nudge." Her voice trailed off, laced with embarrassment.