Chapter 59: The Gathering

“Chu An Qing is coming too?” Lin Xian wondered aloud, feeling more like he was organizing a mahjong team than a simple dinner.

What had begun as a modest celebration was rapidly turning into a major event, with an eclectic mix of attendees.

Traditionally, inviting family members to such a gathering was a sign of respect and underscored the event’s importance. It wasn’t surprising that Chu Shan He would bring his daughter. What did seem odd was Zhao Ying Jun’s knowing smirk. Clearly, the confusion surrounding that drawing hadn’t been resolved.

“Ms. Zhao,” Lin Xian began, feeling it necessary to clarify things, “I think we should address this directly to avoid any future misunderstandings.”

“Go ahead,” Zhao Ying Jun encouraged.

“That painting was something I did casually. Any resemblance to Chu An Qing is purely coincidental. Plus, we all know who Chu Shan He is. His daughter is so young... I wouldn’t dare have such thoughts.”ALL new chapters on nov(e)lbin(.)com

Zhao Ying Jun laughed. “I understand. Just be aware of the potential complications. Chu Shan He isn’t just a business leader; he wields considerable influence. He’s not someone you want to offend in Donghai City.”

“And as for whether Chu An Qing looks like your drawing... you can see for yourself at tomorrow’s celebration dinner.”

Lin Xian nodded, curious about this coincidence. He would find out soon enough at the dinner.

After leaving Zhao Ying Jun’s office, he went back to work.

That afternoon, after finishing work, Lin Xian met Gao Yang at their favorite small restaurant.

Gao Yang, bursting with enthusiasm, removed his coat and exclaimed, “Is it true, my friend? Are you taking me to the Victoria Club for dinner? Their buffet is famously expensive!”

Lin Xian chuckled, brandishing the red invitation card. “Yes, it’s true.”

Gao Yang grabbed the invitation, his eyes lighting up as he read it. “I’ve always wondered what delicacies the wealthy indulge in to justify such prices!”

“By the way, Lin Xian, we’ve both been swamped lately. I never got to ask about your last psychiatrist visit...”

Gao Yang pocketed the invitation, turning to Lin Xian with curiosity, “Did you get to the bottom of it? Did you uncover anything about that girl?”

Lin Xian paused, setting down his chopsticks, and nodded. “Yes, I did. Dr. Liu confirmed it. My dreams are just dreams, nothing more.”

They stepped outside, where the cold bit sharply. Two attendants quickly opened black umbrellas to protect them from the falling snow.

Zhao Ying Jun glanced at her watch, rubbing her arms, “He should be here any minute. He was at the last intersection when I called.”

She smiled at Lin Xian, “Getting Professor Xu Yun to attend is quite an achievement. Apart from Chu Shan He, only you could have managed it.”

“Lin Xian, I don’t know what you’ve done for Professor Xu Yun, or why he feels so indebted to you, but I’m grateful for your help during MX Company’s difficult period.”

Lin Xian shook his head modestly. “I’m just doing my part for the company.”

A taxi turned the corner and approached. Lin Xian and Zhao Ying Jun stepped away from the shelter of the umbrella as the taxi halted.

“Professor Xu, welcome,” Lin Xian greeted, opening the taxi door.

Professor Xu Yun shook hands with them both. “Miss Zhao, thank you for this kind invitation.”

“It’s our pleasure, Professor,” Zhao Ying Jun returned the smile. “Please, let’s go inside. It’s chilly out here.”

Looking dapper in his suit, Professor Xu Yun stomped the snow from his shoes on the red carpet before heading inside with them.

Lin Xian followed, casting a glance back at the taxi and the snow-laden tracks it left behind.

Something felt amiss, but he couldn’t quite place what it was.

“Lin Xian?” Zhao Ying Jun’s voice called him back to the moment.

He turned to find her and Professor Xu Yun waiting.

“Come on in,” Zhao Ying Jun smiled, motioning towards the cheering crowd inside, “The banquet’s about to begin.”

This novel is translated and hosted on bcatranslation