Red Rose Sea

Due to the incident at noon, Leng Youlan became the center of attention at Saint Lido Academy. People were speculating about her identity, and many were willing to pay exorbitant prices to investigate her background. Naturally, the results were the same as before—nothing gained. The more mysterious something is, the more people are inclined to fear it. Consequently, they instinctively kept a one-meter distance from her.

Leng Youlan walked alone down the corridor of Saint Lido Academy, feeling the scrutinizing gazes. She was unfazed, her mind consumed with thoughts about what Lei Tianyi was concealing from her. They had initially planned to go out together, and Leng Youlan had already called Lei Jing and Lei Yun to come back. However, Yi had mentioned needing to go to Li Yu's place and asked her to wait for him at the entrance.

Seeing his mysterious expression, she knew he was definitely hiding something from her. What could it be?

Leng Youlan, deep in thought, was oblivious to the unusual behavior of those around her. As she approached the entrance designated for student pick-up, she waited for Lei Tianyi to arrive.

Once she left the entrance, she could no longer ignore the peculiar atmosphere around her. A sea of red roses surrounded her, forming a heart shape that spelled out the three characters "Leng Youlan." She secretly wondered, "Is this from Yi?" However, that assumption was only partially correct. The flowers were indeed meant for her, but the sender was not Lei Tianyi.

Leng Youlan stood before the vibrant display of roses, awaiting the identity of the sender. Unlike other girls who might be enchanted by such a gesture, her expression remained cold and unimpressed. Of course, if it were confirmed that the flowers were from Lei Tianyi, she would be swept away in her feelings. As for the others? She would politely decline their advances. She had no intention of getting entangled with annoying boys.

Ignoring the man standing in front of her, she moved to the side. "Hey? How can you act like this?" Yao Langyuan exclaimed, nearly bursting with frustration. He had gone to great lengths to impress her, yet she seemed to disregard his presence.

"Do you remember me?" slipped from his lips. "I remember," replied Leng Youlan. Of course she remembered—this person would be her future adversary.

Upon hearing her confirmation, Yao Langyuan felt relief wash over him. "Aren't you curious about how I found you?" he asked, moving closer. Leng Youlan glanced at him, her voice icy as she replied, "Newspaper."

"I'm here today to tell you that I like you. Whatever Lei Tianyi can give you, I, Yao Langyuan, can offer just as much." He noticed the gasps from those around him and smiled with satisfaction. "Whatever," Leng Youlan said dismissively.

"So you're not rejecting my pursuit?

Yao Langyuan said, believing that with his status as the CEO of Yao Group, no woman could resist him. "Reject," was Leng Youlan's cold response.

"Reject?" Anger spread across Yao Langyuan's face, a flush of embarrassment coloring his cheeks. "Can you only say two words?"

"No." 

"You..." A man suddenly stepped in front of him, interrupting. "Sir, can't you see you're not welcome?" 

"Who are you?" Yao Langyuan asked angrily.

"Who I am is none of your business. You just need to know that you're not welcome!" His usual smile was replaced by a serious demeanor. "What's your relationship with her?" 

Yao Langyuan looked at Leng Youlan, who remained cold and expressionless, and smirked, "Seems like you're not welcome either?"

Xiao Yuchan's face immediately adopted an awkward expression. He knew that to Leng Youlan, he was insignificant, but he couldn't bear to see her harassed by other men.

"No matter what, I'm not like you—who continues to pester despite being unwelcome. It seems that President Yao is nothing more than a scoundrel." Yao Langyuan raised an eyebrow, glaring at the man before him, anger flickering in his eyes. "What? Trying to play the hero?"

Xiao Yuchen met the hostile gaze and replied coldly, "So what if I am?"

Tension hung in the air, and everyone around held their breath. Ouyang Fan's usually serious face displayed an unusual emotion, while Du Lengding remained calm, his eyes reflecting complex feelings. Zhang Junsen smiled warmly, though his gaze on his brothers had an eerie undertone.

A soft call of "Yi" broke the moment, and Leng Youlan, who had been looking down, moved between the two men toward a man holding an extremely cute large doll. As she passed by Xiao Yuchen, she calmly said, "Thank you." Xiao Yuchen couldn't help but give a bitter smile.

Everyone's gaze followed the woman as she approached the man with the adorable doll. Leng Youlan sweetly asked, "Why are you so slow?"

Lei Tianyi held the doll in front of the stunningly beautiful woman. "My girl, isn't this all for your doll? Do you like it?"

This had been specially procured by Li Yu from a company in Paris—an absolute favorite of the designer, a non-sellable item! Lei Tianyi aimed to gradually make up for everything his girl missed during her childhood.

The woman joyfully took the doll, embracing it tightly, and smiled gently. "I like it." Her voice radiated sweetness. Everyone was visibly surprised by the beautiful woman's transformation, unconsciously infected by her tenderness.

Lei Tianyi's deep, black pearl-like eyes swept coldly over Yao Langyuan before he spoke to Xiao Yuchen beside him. "Chen, let me, the fiancé, handle this hero rescue," his tone left no room for argument.

Xiao Yuchen shrugged nonchalantly and walked toward Zhang Junsen and the others.

Lei Tianyi smiled wickedly. "Yao Corporation's CEO, Yao Langyuan, 25 years old, went abroad at 18 due to an incident involving fighting. Graduated from UC at 22. After returning, he studied at Saint Ludia Academy for two years. Obtained the Saint Ludia Academy certificate at 24, became general manager a month later, and officially assumed the role of CEO two months ago. Currently working on internal group reforms. Given your current marginalized state, I doubt you have time to harass my fiancée, right? Or are those old conservatives not challenging enough for you?"

Yao Langyuan looked at Lei Tianyi in surprise.

Such detailed information wasn't something just any heir could obtain. In the business world, Yao Corporation was just as competitive as Lei Corporation. Each company's information was extremely confidential.

"The Lei Corporation's CEO is indeed extraordinary," Yao Langyuan said.

"Is that so?" Lei Tianyi raised an eyebrow, fixing him with a cold stare. "For your interest in my fiancée, I'll share a piece of news with you."

"Oh? Please tell," Yao Langyuan responded coldly.

"Five minutes ago, your company's American resort cooperation project was declared a failure," his voice was as cold as a devil's, sending chills through everyone's skin.

Panic flashed across Yao Langyuan's face. The American resort cooperation was his first major project as CEO. If it failed, those old conservatives would...

Lei Tianyi cast a satisfied glance at Yao Langyuan.

Leng Youlan hugged her doll, linked arms with Lei Tianyi, and said softly, "Yi, shall we go?" "As you wish, my girl," he replied, his gentle tone rendering the earlier confrontation mere illusion.

The perfectly matched couple, clad in coordinating white attire, sat in a silver Mercedes sports car and swiftly vanished from view.

[Volume One: 30, I Want to Start a Company]

Life always requires multiple escape routes. While you're young, create more paths for yourself!

"I want to start a company." 

"Start a company?" 

"Yes, the company was officially registered this morning. I want to sell our company's clothing at the coffee shop."

Lei Tianyi observed Leng Youlan's expression, which seemed to convey "Isn't that obvious?" and responded somewhat angrily, "I'm telling you now, I have not done that. Perhaps the people around me thoroughly investigated your information to ensure my safety."

"Why?" Leng Youlan asked, somewhat confused. 

"Because I want to hear you tell me personally."

Leng Youlan was taken aback.

Silence enveloped the room, an unprecedented quiet. Beneath the calm surface, two hearts were in turmoil.

Lei Tianyi had never felt as flustered as he did today. Since meeting her, his world had been shifting. His rationality was in disarray, and the only thing he could be certain of was his fondness for her company and his desire to cherish her.

In a daze, Leng Youlan walked to the window, sitting quietly as she had on countless nights during her childhood. She gazed at the endless night sky, a familiar sensation creeping into her thoughts.

Warmth, confusion, pain, and deep hatred—these feelings swirled within her, the only difference being the absence of her mother's warm embrace and the bittersweet whispers that had once brought her both joy and sorrow. She felt as if she was on the brink of being engulfed by darkness. When her mother collapsed in a pool of blood before her, she surrendered completely.

Before dying, her mother had vowed to take revenge and then marry an ordinary man to live a simple, happy life. Could the person standing behind her grant her that? Leng Youlan forced a bitter smile; the answer had long been settled in her heart. Love felt too distant, both for her and for him.

She slowly stood up, her gaze fixed on Lei Tianyi's furrowed brow. Her hand gripped her sleeve tightly, fearful of the emotions it would betray.

"I am the ghost of Chi," she stated calmly, devoid of any emotion. That was her resentful self, yet it was enough to answer his questions.

Lei Tianyi looked at her intently and slowly said, "The coffee shop is yours from now on."

Perhaps this arrangement was beneficial for both of them. He simply wanted her by his side, and she wished for him to assist her in fulfilling her desire.

[Volume 1: 31, Devil's Wishing Pool]

"Youlan, I think it's almost done," Lei Jing exclaimed excitedly to Leng Youlan, who was planting mimosa. Leng Youlan looked around; the wishing pool was now encircled by a vibrant garden, a sweet smile spreading across her face.

Noticing that most people had completed their tasks and were engaged in conversation and play, she stood up and spoke calmly, "Everyone, please listen. We have finished the garden, and I want to share the story of this place."

Seeing the curious looks from everyone, Leng Youlan began softly, "A long time ago, in the heavenly realm, when leaders were being chosen... This wishing pool is known as the Devil's Wishing Pool."

As she noticed everyone's rapt attention, Leng Youlan mysteriously added, "Now that we have completed this garden, this forest has transformed into a maze!"

A girl with a sweet demeanor asked curiously, "Does that mean this place has become a maze too?"

"How could that be? Girls just love to imagine," a boy's words earned unanimous eye-rolls from the girls, while the boys exchanged sympathetic glances. Leng Youlan continued softly, "This place will indeed make people get lost. If anyone doesn't believe it, you can try it after we go out. But remember to bring your phone, or you won't be able to call for help!"

Seeing everyone's eager expressions, Leng Youlan felt very happy. Last night, she had sent Fujiwara Naoko to transform this place. Naoko was very skilled in various array techniques.

Leng Youlan secretly glanced at Lei Tianyi, a hint of bitterness in her heart. Would they one day be like He Han and Hei Luo Jia, bound by a demon's love? Knowing the outcome, her heart still quietly harbored hope.

"Okay, let's go out now!" Leng Youlan said calmly. She was the first to step outside. Lei Tianyi also noticed the array set up here. Although he knew his girl understood array techniques, he still walked to her side out of concern.

Leng Youlan recognized Lei Tianyi's intention and gave him a gentle smile. Behind their perfectly matched figures, various gazes were cast.

But they didn't care; their eyes and hearts were only for each other.

The Devil's Wishing Pool caused a sensation in S City. More and more people flocked to the maze forest to find the Devil's Wishing Pool. Because the maze forest truly disoriented people, the legend of the Devil's Wishing Pool was widely believed.

The Storm of the Devil's Wishing Pool, centered in S City, began to spread across the world. Meanwhile, JM Company, which operated the Devil's Wishing series, emerged from obscurity. Devil's Wishing Stones, Devil's Wishing Grass, and various Devil's Wishing accessories began to gain popularity worldwide.

JM Company launched Devil clothing stores in various locations, primarily focusing on couple's wear. Almost every couple in the world sought out Devil brand couple's clothing.

JM Company's advertising slogan for Devil's Clothing was "Couples wearing Devil's Clothing, embodying the profound romance of the devil." This slogan led people to associate deep emotional connections with wearing Devil's couples attire.

"Big Sister, what's our next step?" Mili Kaluda asked curiously. She was the master of Qingfeng Pavilion, responsible for all company negotiations and public relations.

"I'm more curious about why we're opening a company," Luisan Sabante remarked blankly. She was the master of Ziri Pavilion, overseeing assassinations.

"Indeed, Big Sister," Aiteman Yokin added indifferently. She was the master of Huangzhu Pavilion, specializing in weapons.

"Big Sister naturally has her reasons," Ai Guosu said seriously. She was the master of Chengning Pavilion, managing rewards and punishments.

Leng Youlan gazed at her sisters, her eyes involuntarily revealing a doting expression. "We can't keep mingling in this world forever. Everyone needs to understand that we must prepare for the future."

"Big Sister, does JM mean 'sisters'?" Fujiwara Naoko suddenly questioned. The others turned to Leng Youlan upon hearing Naoko's inquiry.

Leng Youlan nodded firmly, and the seven sisters' eyes brimmed with tears.

"Alright, we have many things to do. Now, listen to my arrangements." Everyone nodded in agreement.

"Luisan, this recent case is different from before. The members of the Leite family in France are very cunning. You must exercise extra caution." When Luisan Sabante nodded, she continued, "Aiteman, you'll accompany Luisan to execute this mission."

"Shopping is fun! We can find pretty clothes and enjoy ourselves!" "I'm just not sure if it's the right time for that," Lei Tianye replied hesitantly.

"But Tianye, we need to take a break sometimes. It's good for us," Leng Youlan insisted, her voice cheerful yet persuasive.

Finally, Lei Tianye sighed in concession. "Alright, let's go shopping, but it better be quick."

As they walked through the bustling streets, Leng Youlan's excitement was palpable. She pulled Lei Tianye along, pointing out various shops and their window displays.

"Look at that dress! It would look perfect on you!" 

"I think you mean perfect on you," Lei Tianye replied, attempting to steer the conversation away from himself.

Leng Youlan laughed, "You always know how to make me smile."

Eventually, they came across a boutique that caught Leng Youlan's eye. The window was adorned with beautiful garments that seemed to sparkle under the afternoon sun.

"Let's check this one out!" she exclaimed, tugging on Lei Tianye's arm as they stepped inside.

The interior was filled with an array of colors and fabrics, making it a treasure trove for any fashion enthusiast. Leng Youlan immediately began browsing, picking up dresses and accessories, while Lei Tianye observed quietly.

"Do you think this looks good?" Leng Youlan called out from behind a dressing room curtain.

"Everything looks good on you," came Lei Tianye's response without hesitation.

With each new outfit, Leng Youlan's joy seemed to multiply. Shopping had become not only an opportunity to find beautiful pieces but also a way to share moments with someone she treasured.

After several outfits and much laughter, they left the boutique with their arms full of bags, both feeling lighter in spirit.

"Have you gone shopping with many women before and are afraid of running into them?" 

"No, I've only gone shopping with one person." Thinking of Xia Xuaner made Lei Tianye feel uncomfortable.

"One person?" Leng Youlan felt a knot tighten in her stomach, and her heart felt heavy.

"Darling, let's not go shopping. There's a banquet tonight; I'll take you to attend, how about that?" Lei Tianye said somewhat placatingly. 

"Okay!" 

Suppressing her inner unhappiness, she asked, "Can I go out by myself? I want to check out the coffee house?" 

Lei Tianye responded, "Okay! I'll be handling some documents at home."

"Oh, I'll go change."

"Nights are always misty, and the stars playfully wink down at us. The moonlight exists to illuminate the sky, and lights were invented to brighten our eyes. Ye, were you born for me?" Leng Youlan nestled in Lei Tianye's arms.

"I never knew my girl had the talent of a poet," Lei Tianye said, holding her tightly.

"Will you answer my question first?" Leng Youlan asked coyly. "If I respond well, will there be a reward?" Lei Tianye replied with a charming smile.

"I don't know if I was born for you, but I know that in this lifetime, I only want you, and I only want to cherish a girl named Leng Youlan."

"Yi, thank you!" She quickly kissed Lei Tianye's cheek. "My darling, isn't this reward enough?" But Lei Tianye didn't allow her a chance to finish speaking, covering her soft, warm lips with his own, greedily yet gently savoring her sweet fragrance.

Qi smartly chose to ignore the scenery outside the car, but his eyes would inadvertently glance at the mirror, revealing a barely perceptible mischievous smile.

"Qi, go to Africa tomorrow to handle some business," Lei Tianye said while adjusting the already relaxed body in his arms to make his darling more comfortable.

"Ah?" Qi's face instantly turned pale, secretly groaning inside. Lei Tianye raised a satisfied, teasing smile.

The banquet was held at the famous Crystal Palace in S City, which held a beautiful legend. It was said that two hundred years ago, an incredibly wealthy merchant built this palace for his beautiful wife. Eighty percent of the structure was covered in crystal, and the living room contained 9,999 crystal roses, reportedly the engagement gift from the merchant to his wife.

Leng Youlan, eating silently, felt someone sit down beside her on the sofa. She didn't look up because the person's aura was not the familiar male scent she recognized. She slightly shifted her body to the other side, planning to leave once she finished eating.

Piyue Henry glanced at the woman beside him and frowned, surprised that she would distance herself from him. This was quite a blow to his male charm, as he ranked among the world's top ten bachelors, with countless women vying for his attention. Nevertheless, he had no intention of teasing the woman next to him.

Leaning back on the sofa, Piyue Henry picked up his wine glass and took a small sip. Boredly scanning the chattering crowd at the venue, he sighed inwardly, feeling disinterested.

"Piyue, long time no see! Have you missed me?" A provocatively dressed woman approached the sofa, glancing at Leng Youlan before turning her attention to the handsome man.

"Darling, of course I've missed you! I've missed you so much that my heart aches!" He dramatically placed his hand on his chest, pretending to be in pain.

"You always know how to sweet-talk," the seductive woman said, sitting down on the sofa and pushing Leng Youlan to the side.

Leng Youlan looked at her unfinished food, wanting to move elsewhere, but a glance around revealed that this spot was the most tranquil. She gave a bitter smile and lowered her head, continuing to battle with her meal.

Glaring hatefully at Leng Youlan, the woman coyly said, "Piyue, I'm performing the piano later. You'll remember to applaud for me, right?" 

"Of course, I'm never stingy with beautiful women," Piyue Henry replied flirtatiously, throwing a teasing glance at Leng Youlan.

Noticing the handsome man's gaze, the seductive woman mockingly added, "My piano skills have improved. Not like some people who clearly lack elegance and dress like an outdated ugly duckling."

"Oh?" The man casually looked over at Leng Youlan, secretly surprised by her cold demeanor. Could she be deaf?

Leng Youlan had indeed heard the seductive woman's taunts and was acutely aware of her previous hate-filled glare. She coldly replied, "Those who play the piano aren't necessarily ladies. Sometimes 'ugly ducklings' can play too. And those who seduce men aren't necessarily prostitutes."

"Sometimes 'ladies' do that too."

"You..." The woman's eyes flashed with a vicious light.

"Sometimes 'socialites' do as well," Leng Youlan coldly interrupted, her gaze still fixed on her food.

The seductive woman responded angrily, "Let's have a competition!" 

"Compete in what?" 

"Piano," she said, her confidence in her musical skills evident. 

"Stakes?" Leng Youlan was not one to engage in unprofitable ventures. 

"The winner can impose any condition on the loser." 

"No problem."

Upon hearing the cold response, the enchanting woman remarked sarcastically, "I'll go first, just in case you don't even know how to play later. I don't want others saying Shang Guan Mei'er bullied someone." 

"Nonsense." 

"You... fine, I'll make you understand the consequences of offending the Shang Guan family." With that, the alluring woman positioned herself directly in front of the piano.

A rendition of Mozart's "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" floated softly through the air, each transition executed with skilled rhythm, eliciting appreciative expressions from the audience.

Some guests couldn't help but share their thoughts. "Shang Guan Mei'er plays really well." "I agree, she seems to have improved greatly since the last banquet." "Don't you know?" "Know what?" "The world-class piano master, Fei Luo, came here a few months ago. The Shang Guan family hired him at a high price to be Shang Guan Mei'er's teacher." "No wonder she has improved so much!" "How enviable!"

As Leng Youlan listened to the discussions around her, a barely perceptible bitter smile tugged at her lips. "That old fellow actually came here to find me?"

Leng Youlan had been injured during a mission and was rescued by Fei Luo. During her recovery, he taught her piano. However, Fei Luo insisted on making her his student, and she had barely managed to escape from his grasp.

It wasn't that Leng Youlan couldn't escape; rather, Fei Luo had resorted to hunger strikes whenever she expressed the desire to leave.

She eventually persuaded him to let her go, promising to visit him once a year, as he had given her a fatherly warmth. After her departure, Fei Luo took pleasure in locating her whereabouts. The thought of him softened Leng Youlan's heart.

"What? Lost in thought?" Shang Guan Mei'er's words snapped Leng Youlan back to reality. "Your turn?"

Leng Youlan approached the piano and played Mozart's "Eine Kleine Nachtmusik," with clear and elegant melodies flowing softly from her fingertips. The piece danced with carefree emotions, immersing listeners in a perfect world of love. As the song drew to a close, those entranced by the music were reluctant to return to reality.

Their thoughts soared, tracing light dance steps.

"You lost," Leng Youlan's cold voice brought everyone back to their senses. Thunderous applause erupted in the banquet hall.

Shang Guan Mei'er's face turned pale as she looked at Leng Youlan. She had thought Fei Luo was the world's best piano master, but how could this woman...

"What? Want to go back on your word?" Leng Youlan's lips curled into a mocking smile. She resembled a predator eyeing her prey, a fierce glint shining in her eyes. The moment Shang Guan Mei'er had looked down on her, her fate was sealed.

Lei Tianyi assessed his girlfriend seriously, chuckling, "Actually, she's not wrong." 

"You think so too?" Leng Youlan's lively eyes narrowed into thin slits, regarding Lei Tianyi with a dangerous gaze.

"Okay! It's my fault. I shouldn't have dressed my angelic girl like an outdated, ugly duckling. And I shouldn't have provoked you without remorse. Now, punish me with a kiss!" Lei Tianyi said soothingly, immediately planting a light kiss on Leng Youlan's lips.

"How annoying!" Leng Youlan exclaimed, her cheeks flushing. "Shall we go now?" 

"Why? I want to watch her dance first."

"Leng Youlan risked being pestered by the old guy to watch a dance; she absolutely didn't want to leave midway.

"Go home and do what you like?"

In fact, Lei Tianyi was concerned because the man over there kept staring, and his instinct told him that the man was looking at his girl.

He couldn't understand—he had dressed her so plainly, yet she still attracted attention everywhere. "Girl, didn't I tell you not to talk to other men?"

"Yes, I know!" Leng Youlan, still shy, replied softly. "But why does that man keep looking over here?" "I don't know. I don't know him," Leng Youlan admitted, having noticed the man's gaze too.

"How strange. Isn't the way I dressed you ugly enough?" Lei Tianyi murmured, gently wrapping his arm around her waist. "Enough. He? He's captivated by my charm," she said with self-confidence, making him realize he had spoken his thoughts aloud.

Leng Youlan continued to laugh, "You? You dress so handsomely, yet no women stare. You dress me so poorly, and handsome guys still peek. That's the difference in temperament."

"Is that so?" "Of course!" "When she finishes dancing, let's not leave, okay?" "Why?" Leng Youlan looked at Lei Tianyi curiously. "I want to ask those women what kind of temperament makes them so captivated," he said thoughtfully.

"You wouldn't dare! I know you dressed me like this on purpose to make everyone think I'm not good enough for you, so they'd try to replace me."

Thinking about those women's looks earlier made her feel uncomfortable, and her eyes turned red. This was what she truly cared about; Shang Guanmei'er had just accidentally been caught in the crossfire. Leng Youlan was using Shang Guanmei'er to convey that she was Lei Tianyi's most cherished one, and those who offended her would face consequences, which was why no one dared to look at Lei Tianyi now.

Seeing his girl looking like she was about to cry broke his heart. He softly comforted her, "Darling, don't be sad. I was wrong. I'll make it up to you, okay?" "How?" Leng Youlan thought glumly about how everyone had seen her.

"I had Lei Jing prepare a dress for you. We'll change into it now."

He had initially planned for her to change during the dance, knowing he would have to leave her for a while and wanting to prevent other men from bothering her, which was why he had dressed her this way.

He hadn't anticipated it would make his girl so unhappy.

Lei Tianyi glanced around and walked toward a crowded area. "Chairman Chen, long time no see."

The addressed Chairman Chen immediately showed a look of being overwhelmed, panicking as he replied, "Young Master Lei, long time no see."

"How has Chairman Lei been lately?"

"My mother is well," Lei Tianyi responded in a cold voice, naturally exuding an intimidating presence that made the man known as Chairman Chen appear even more respectful.

"Young Master Lei, may I be introduced to this beautiful lady by your side?" Lei Tianyi had chosen this person because he could read the atmosphere.

Looking at Chairman Chen with satisfaction, he gently turned to his girl and said, "Chairman Chen, this is my girlfriend, Leng Youlan. Please take care of her in the future."

"Take care? I wouldn't dare! Miss Leng, if you have any needs, just give me your instructions, and I will do my best," Chairman Chen thought to himself that seeing how Lei Tianyi treated this woman, he wouldn't dare to be negligent.

Leng Youlan glared at Lei Tianyi, warning him with her eyes to "quickly get to the point!" Lei Tianyi said gently, "Stop glaring at me, okay? I know I was wrong."

Everyone was mesmerized by this perfectly matched couple.

The usually mysterious and cold Young Master Lei was so gentle with a woman, even lowering his head to admit his mistake like a child. The women wished they were the ones receiving his gentleness.

Yet everyone present clearly saw the doting look in Lei Tianyi's deep, dark eyes when he looked at the woman beside him.

With affection, Lei Tianyi gently turned Leng Youlan's face back, not allowing her to look at other men.

"Oh, so this is the young lady from earlier."

Her piano playing was excellent!" Chairman Chen finally understood why he had been chosen, and he deliberately raised his voice so that everyone in the banquet hall could hear him.

The objective was indeed achieved. As soon as Chairman Chen finished speaking, the atmosphere in the banquet hall became lively once more. Conversations resumed, but this time there were no mockery.

Leng Youlan suddenly recalled the story of the ugly duckling turning into a swan.

"Chairman Chen, my girl seems tired. We'll take our leave." Having accomplished his goal, it was time to retreat. "Young Master Lei, Miss Leng does indeed look tired. Please, go ahead," Chairman Chen replied with a bittersweet smile, aware that he had been used yet still obliged to play along respectfully.

Holding his girl, Lei Tianyi walked to a corner sofa and sat down, disregarding the ongoing discussions. "Girl, don't look at other men," Lei Tianyi said jealously. "Yi, don't look at other women," Leng Youlan shot back, amused by Lei Tianyi's envious expression.

"I've never looked at other women." "I've never looked at other men either," Leng Youlan retorted, unconvinced by Lei Tianyi's words as she recalled the only woman he had accompanied shopping.

"Girl, you haven't looked at other men; I'm just feeling jealous," Lei Tianyi said, noting the sad tone in his girl's voice and quickly yielding.

"You're jealous? You can be jealous?" Leng Youlan beamed brightly at Lei Tianyi's admission.

Seeing her cheerful expression, Lei Tianyi felt that everything was worthwhile. A man's humility for someone he cares about is a form of happiness. At the very least, he knew he always had one purpose: to cherish her with all his might.

"Yi, Mayor Li has announced the start of the dance. Shall we dance?" The sound of his girl's voice was music to Lei Tianyi's ears. "Okay! But you should be more flirtatious in the future." "Yes, sir!" Who could refuse a request from someone who sincerely cares for them?

Leng Youlan added, "You're not allowed to dance with other women from now on." "Why?

"No reason. You just said you'd agree to anything I say." 

"Really? I don't remember." 

"Oh? Seems that way." Looking at his girl's happy, upturned mouth, he playfully added, "You do know that everything comes with a price, right?" 

"No way! If you promised, you have to keep your word!" Leng Youlan fully deployed her flirtatious skills. 

"But I want you to kiss me a little." 

"Just say so! It's that simple." Leng Youlan quickly kissed Lei Tianyi. 

"Girl, is that not enough?" 

"But we're still on the dance floor!" 

"Ah?" Lei Tianyi scooped up his girl and walked out. "Girl, I've spoiled you." 

A pair of deep blue eyes followed their figures, revealing an emotion unfamiliar to him. But everything seemed too late.