"How do I look? Not bad, right?" Lu Huaiyang asked with a smile that begged for compliments, looking at Qiao Ran.
"Beautiful, prettier than Xi Shi, surpassing Diao Chan."
Lu Huaiyang's face turned dark in an instant, "Can't you speak like a normal person? I dressed up with so much effort, and it was all for you!"
"Tell me, how is getting all dolled up like this for me?" Qiao Ran asked, his voice light and breezy.
"Tonight is the night your stepsister announces to the world that Wen Shimo is her man. At a time like this, you're bound to be the butt of jokes. As your rumored boyfriend, standing by your side to protect you, who would dare to laugh at you?" Lu Huaiyang said, naturally draping his arm over Qiao Ran's exposed, fair shoulder.
Qiao Ran knocked Lu Huaiyang's hand away in one swift motion, "Then I really should thank you for your kindness."
It didn't matter to her whether others laughed or not, but having Lu Huaiyang by her side did lend her some face.