chapter 53 Tensions and Temptations — A Night to Remember"

After the tension-filled encounter at the gala, Zhao Feng and Su Mei stepped outside. The night breeze carried a refreshing chill, contrasting with the lingering heat from the lavish ballroom. The streets glowed under the soft hum of city lights, and the world seemed quieter now.

Su Mei's crimson gown flowed elegantly with each step, her slender figure illuminated by the golden glow from the building's entrance. Though she maintained her usual composed demeanor, Zhao Feng didn't miss the subtle satisfaction gleaming in her eyes.

"You really enjoyed that, didn't you?" Zhao Feng broke the silence, a hint of amusement playing on his lips.

Su Mei smirked, her fingers brushing back a stray strand of hair. "And what if I did? Some people deserve to be reminded of their place."

"Careful," Zhao Feng teased, stepping closer. "People might say you're jealous."

"Jealous?" Su Mei tilted her head, her gaze locking with his. "I don't get jealous, Zhao Feng. I simply make sure no one forgets who stands beside you."

The words lingered, charged with undeniable tension. Zhao Feng's heart pounded, the unspoken challenge between them thickening the air. She was bold — and that only made her more captivating.

"Confident as always," Zhao Feng replied, his voice low.

Su Mei's lips curled into a sly smile. "And I'm usually right."

Just as the moment seemed to draw them closer, a sudden chime broke the air.

Ding!

[New Task: Handle Unexpected Visitors — Reward: +30 Charisma, +20 Charm]

Zhao Feng glanced at the glowing system prompt, curiosity flickering in his eyes. Unexpected visitors?

Su Mei arched a brow, noticing his distraction. "Something on your mind?"

"Nothing important," Zhao Feng replied smoothly, though the system's task lingered. "Just the feeling that tonight's not over yet."

"And here I thought I was your entertainment for the evening," Su Mei quipped, though the playful glint in her eye suggested she enjoyed the tease.

"Trust me," Zhao Feng leaned closer, his breath brushing against her skin. "You are."

Back at his apartment, Zhao Feng kicked off his shoes, the sleek city view visible from the floor-to-ceiling windows. But just as he settled onto the couch, his phone buzzed.

[Incoming Call: Unknown Number]

He frowned but answered. "Hello?"

A soft, melodic voice greeted him. "Mr. Zhao Feng? This is Song Jia's assistant. She would like to formally invite you to an upcoming charity auction."

Zhao Feng's brows lifted. Song Jia. Heiress of one of the country's most influential conglomerates, she rarely involved herself in social events without a purpose.

"Why me?" Zhao Feng asked, though he already knew the answer. His sudden rise in wealth had not gone unnoticed.

"Miss Song has taken an interest," the assistant replied simply. "She looks forward to seeing you there."

Ding!

[New Task: Capture the Interest of the Untouchable Heiress — Reward: +50 Charm, +10 Influence]

Zhao Feng smirked. The game had only just begun.