ays passed since the subtle confrontation between Zhao Feng and Su Mei, but the tension lingered. Despite the warning, Su Mei's curiosity had only grown. Every unanswered question became a spark, fueling her determination.
But Zhao Feng knew how to play the game. The next move had to be hers.
And it didn't take long.
Late in the afternoon, Zhao Feng returned to his penthouse. Just as he poured himself a glass of wine, the doorbell rang. A deliveryman stood outside, holding an elegant black envelope embossed with gold.
"From Miss Su Mei," the man said with a polite bow.
Zhao Feng accepted the envelope, the corners of his mouth curving into a faint smile.
"Interesting."
Inside was a sleek card, its design reflecting Su Mei's refined taste.
You enjoy the shadows, Mr. Zhao.
But even shadows must step into the light sometimes.
Join me.
Su Mei
Friday, 7 PM — Azure Pearl Manor
A direct challenge. She wasn't done probing, and now she wanted to face him in her domain.
"Su Mei," Zhao Feng murmured, fingers tracing the card. "Let's see how far you're willing to go."
Ding!
[Su Mei Curiosity +10%]
[Event Triggered: Private Gathering at Azure Pearl Manor]
The Evening at Azure Pearl Manor
Friday arrived swiftly. The Azure Pearl Manor was a lavish estate perched on the outskirts of the city, surrounded by a sea of manicured gardens and marble fountains. Under the golden glow of chandeliers, the manor came alive with murmurs of the city's most powerful elites.
Zhao Feng, dressed in an impeccably tailored black suit, stepped out of his luxury sedan. The air was thick with the scent of expensive perfume and aged wine, a reflection of the wealth within.
"Mr. Zhao," the butler greeted, bowing respectfully. "Miss Su Mei is expecting you."
He followed the servant through the grand corridors until they reached an open terrace. There, beneath the silver moonlight, stood Su Mei. Her silk evening gown shimmered with each subtle movement, her elegance effortlessly captivating.
"Mr. Zhao," she greeted, her voice smooth yet laced with intrigue. "You accepted my invitation."
"As you said," Zhao Feng replied, a faint smile tugging at his lips, "even shadows must step into the light."
They moved through the gathering, exchanging pleasantries with other guests. Su Mei made a point to introduce Zhao Feng to influential figures — CEOs, investors, and rising politicians. While the conversations remained polite, Zhao Feng noticed the unspoken curiosity behind their eyes.
"You're making quite the impression," Su Mei remarked, her voice low.
"Perhaps that was your intention," Zhao Feng countered, sipping his wine.
She smiled. "I wanted to see how well you navigate the light."
"And what do you think so far?"
"You're far too composed for a man with no secrets."
Zhao Feng chuckled softly. "Perhaps I'm simply good at keeping them."
Ding!
[Su Mei Favorability +15%]
[Su Mei Suspicion +5%]
As the night drew to a close, Su Mei led Zhao Feng to a secluded balcony overlooking the city lights. The air between them was thick with unspoken tension.
"You're not an easy man to figure out, Zhao Feng," Su Mei said softly.
"Maybe you're just asking the wrong questions."
She smiled, though the curiosity in her eyes remained. "And what would be the right question?"
Zhao Feng's gaze held hers. "Why do you want to know so badly?"
For a moment, she said nothing. Then, with a soft laugh, she stepped closer.
"Perhaps I'll find out soon enough."
Ding!
[Su Mei Curiosity +20%]
[Su Mei Favorability +10%]
The game was far from over. But now, Su Mei wasn't just seeking answers. She was becoming entangled in Zhao Feng's world — one step at a time.