CHAPTER 8: A Love Caught in the Crossfire

The rivalry between Mei Xing and Mei Li wasn't confined to whispered jabs or cold glances—it soon crept into every corner of their lives, even the ones Mei Xing had once considered sacred. Especially when it came to Zhao Chen.

Zhao Chen had been Mei Xing's childhood friend—charming, intelligent, and ambitious. Their friendship had blossomed over the years into something more, though neither had spoken openly about it. Still, their connection was undeniable. He was always there—at charity galas, family events, quiet late-night calls filled with laughter. Everyone around them believed they were destined for each other.

Everyone… except Mei Li.

The first time Zhao Chen visited after Mei Li's arrival, Mei Xing watched her sister's expression change the moment he stepped through the door. Her gaze lingered a little too long. Her smile was a little too bright. And the way she leaned in during conversations—it didn't go unnoticed.

"Chen!" Madam Lin greeted warmly. "It's been so long. Come, meet Mei Li."

Mei Li stood, offering her hand delicately. "I've heard so much about you."

Zhao Chen shook her hand, polite but reserved. "Likewise. Mei Xing talks about her family often."

Mei Xing felt a flicker of pride. That's right, she thought. He knows where his heart lies.

But it didn't stop Mei Li from trying.

She began showing up at events Zhao Chen was attending, conveniently sitting beside him at dinners, casually dropping compliments that felt too intimate for a first acquaintance. She laughed at his jokes, clung to his every word, and even began calling him by his first name with a familiarity that grated on Mei Xing's nerves.

One evening, Zhao Chen took Mei Xing out for coffee.

"She's getting… very close to you," Mei Xing said, trying to sound casual, though her voice betrayed a hint of frustration.

Zhao Chen raised an eyebrow. "You mean Mei Li?"

"She's doing it on purpose."

He chuckled softly. "Jealous?"

Mei Xing looked at him seriously. "No. Just observant."

He leaned closer. "You don't need to worry. I know who I want."

That should've reassured her. But in her gut, she knew Mei Li wasn't the kind of person to walk away quietly—not when she saw something she wanted.

And unfortunately, it seemed Zhao Chen had caught her interest.

That night, Mei Xing returned home to find Mei Li standing outside the garden, speaking softly into her phone. As she drew closer, she heard a name that sent her blood running cold.

"…Yes, Zhao Chen… I'm getting closer. Just wait. He won't look at her the same soon."

Mei Xing froze behind the hedge, heart pounding.

Her sister wasn't just competing—she was plotting.

And it wasn't just about attention anymore.

It was about stealing everything that mattered to Mei Xing—piece by piece.