Chapter 3: Sudden Difference

Since the gathering was scheduled for 8 p.m., Shen Zhaoyan said goodbye to the others and returned to her law firm to continue working. After all, her caseload had been piling up recently, and in the short time she had been away, her assistant had called countless times urging her to return. Even if she had wanted to stay a little longer, she simply had no choice. However, before getting into her car, Yang Xiaoning's casual "See you later" gave her an unexpected burst of motivation.

Today, Shen Zhaoyan was particularly productive. Not only did she finish her mountain of work before 7 p.m., but she also allowed her employees to leave early. This unexpected gesture left everyone puzzled. They couldn't help but ask if she had something important going on—after all, this was the first time she had ever let them leave work early.

Shen Zhaoyan, half-jokingly, responded, "Am I usually that strict? Is it really so strange that I'm letting you off early?"

Though she was always warm and approachable outside of work, she was undeniably strict when it came to her job. But this—this was unprecedented. It was so unlike her. Yet, she didn't explain further and simply insisted that everyone take the chance to enjoy some leisure time after work.

After watching her employees leave, Shen Zhaoyan finally allowed herself to relax. She went to the restroom to touch up her makeup, but after looking at herself in the mirror, she felt it was still too formal. Considering they were going to a barbecue place, she removed her blazer and tied her hair up in a high bun. Only then did she feel like she looked a little less stiff—at least she wouldn't stand out too much.

Following the navigation, Shen Zhaoyan arrived at the barbecue restaurant. Just as she parked and got out of her car, she happened to run into Yang Xiaoning and the rest of the group, who had also just arrived. Walking at the front, Yang Xiaoning was the first to notice her, and for a brief moment, she was taken aback.

This was the first time she had seen Shen Zhaoyan dressed like this. The high bun made her look effortlessly relaxed yet still beautiful, and without the stiff blazer, it felt as though she had shed a layer of formality, revealing a softer, more approachable side.

But Yang Xiaoning quickly composed herself and greeted Shen Zhaoyan with a smile. Shen Zhaoyan also returned the greeting with a gentle smile.

Yang Xiaoning then walked over quickly and asked, "Did you wait long?"

Shen Zhaoyan shook her head. "No, I just got here. I ran into you all the moment I got out of the car. Guess we have good timing."

As they chatted, the rest of the group stood quietly beside them, watching them talk without interrupting. The two were so immersed in their conversation that they didn't even notice the others until Yang Qingyue finally couldn't help but ask, "Should we go inside first? You two can keep talking after we sit down."

Only then did Shen Zhaoyan and Yang Xiaoning realize how caught up they had been. They had completely forgotten that they were here for a gathering. Their faces flushed slightly, though they both pretended not to notice.

At the table, the group naturally left two adjacent seats open for Shen Zhaoyan and Yang Xiaoning. After all, seeing how well they got along, it only made sense for them to sit together. Yang Qingyue said nothing, but she gave them a knowing look.

After what had just happened, both Shen Zhaoyan and Yang Xiaoning felt a little self-conscious. But with only those two seats left, they had no choice but to sit together. Despite their embarrassment, a small part of them couldn't help but feel a tiny bit pleased.

Since the coach was treating, the athletes didn't hold back—they ordered all the most expensive meats and seafood and even called for a whole case of beer. Watching the bill skyrocket, the coach silently worried about his wallet, but since he had been the one to offer, he couldn't exactly take it back now. He could only send a text to his wife, half-jokingly complaining about how young people these days had such big appetites.

The group ate and drank happily, and the atmosphere became livelier by the minute. Someone suddenly suggested playing a game, and the idea was met with enthusiastic cheers. Young people always loved a bit of excitement, so they decided on a game of Truth or Dare.

Luckily, someone had brought a deck of cards. The rule was simple: whoever drew the lowest number had to take the punishment, which would be determined by whoever drew the joker.

Initially, Shen Zhaoyan had no intention of participating. But with everyone around her already tipsy and urging her to join, she had no choice but to reluctantly agree.