Chapter 118: Ordinary

As they entered the hall, Zhao Ying Jun immediately spotted the female singer they were scheduled to meet.

The meeting went smoothly. The singer, known on stage as Ilk, was actually named Miaoke. Lin Xian was familiar with her work; her melodious voice was an ideal fit for the Rhine Cat brand’s theme song.

Zhao Ying Jun had meticulously planned this. Miaoke listened to the demo, lavished praise on it, and was quite taken with the song. The collaboration was agreed upon with enthusiasm, efficient and straightforward, just as Lin Xian had hoped.

Shortly thereafter, the formal portion of the ball commenced. Waltz music filled the air, and elegantly dressed couples took to the dance floor, twirling gracefully. Knowing Zhao Ying Jun typically avoided dancing at such events, Lin Xian prudently stayed at the sidelines with her, munching on snacks.Reêad latest novels at noov/e/l/bin(.)com

Zhao Ying Jun consistently turned down dance invitations, even from numerous distinguished men. With Lin Xian by her side, she didn’t even need to directly refuse anyone. Most attendees, noticing her with a male companion, respectfully kept their distance.

Lin Xian knew his role well; he was there to sit, eat, drink, and shield her. Yet, a few eager minor celebrities and models occasionally approached to ask Zhao Ying Jun to dance. Lin Xian had to admit these men were quite charismatic and polished, resembling statues, some even being foreign models. It was clear they were drawn by Zhao Ying Jun’s affluence, possibly looking for opportunities.

For those who were overly persistent, Zhao Ying Jun wouldn’t even offer a glance, and Lin Xian would curtly decline for her: “Sorry, President Zhao is quite exhausted.”

Those men reluctantly walked away, casting frustrated looks back at Lin Xian.

“Do you find this ball dull?” Zhao Ying Jun questioned, nibbling on snacks and sipping wine while observing Lin Xian, as the music intensified.

Lin Xian didn’t visibly react. “It’s alright, not much different from Chu Shan He’s events.”

“The difference is vast; they’re entirely different leagues,” Zhao Ying Jun corrected, her gaze sweeping over the dancers. “Do you know the most lavish, high-profile event in Donghai City’s business circle each year?”

Lin Xian shook his head.

“It’s the New Year’s Eve banquet hosted by Chu Shan He on the 28th of the lunar month,” Zhao Ying Jun explained with a smile. “That’s where the real power players gather. You should see it.”

Suddenly, the music halted abruptly. The dancers stopped, turning their attention towards the entrance. Several police officers, stern-faced, had blocked the entryway. The leading officer surveyed the crowd.

“Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. Sorry for this interruption,” the officer announced. “Please stay put and cooperate with our investigation for your safety.”

It was just past nine. Lin Xian had planned to continue his chat with Zhao Ying Jun a bit longer before driving her home. But why were the police here?

“I can tell,” Zhao Ying Jun chuckled. “You need more practice.”

“Will do,” Lin Xian replied, merging onto another highway. The night breeze played with Zhao Ying Jun’s hair.

“Lin Xian,” she began softly, “I really appreciate all your help recently. Without you, the Rhine Cat project, Professor Xu Yun’s authorization, and the theme song collaboration might not have been this successful.”

She glanced at him, her eyes reflecting the neon lights outside. “You’re very capable, not just talented, but in every way. I admire that.”

Lin Xian smiled, maintaining his speed. “It’s an honor to be appreciated by you.”

The powerful car smoothly merged onto the main highway. “If one day you decide to leave MX Company, I’ll support you,” Zhao Ying Jun said, looking ahead. “As you said, you have your ambitions. I respect that.”

“But I’m curious,” she continued, her smile bright as she tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, letting the wind play with it. “Honestly, I used to think you weren’t very ambitious. You seemed so laid-back and ordinary, just doing your job well, which was enough for me. But lately, you’ve been more proactive, more involved. It’s like you’ve found a goal. Can you tell me why?”

The speed limit was 80 km/h, but they were going faster. Lin Xian hesitated. Was Zhao Ying Jun testing him, suspecting his motives, or merely showing concern? He knew he had changed since Xu Yun’s death. He wasn’t a hero, but he felt compelled to uncover the truth and identify the killer. He was certain the killer was linked to the Genius Club. His actions were indeed calculated, aiming to gain Zhao Ying Jun’s trust to access the coveted invitation in her office. She was right; his transformation had a purpose. But how to articulate this?

“I’ve tasted success,” Lin Xian finally said, eyes on the road. “For 23 years, my life was ordinary. My biggest achievements were winning a city parkour championship in high school and hosting a few college events. Maybe I was content because I never had real aspirations. Now, I crave success and don’t want to live an ordinary life.”

Zhao Ying Jun didn’t immediately reply. She reclined in her seat, closing her eyes with a sigh. “Alright.”

A few minutes later, Zhao Ying Jun’s phone chimed. She checked the message. “Miaoke is home safely,” she informed Lin Xian. “I asked her to let me know when she arrived.”

“That’s good,” Lin Xian noted, focusing on the road.

“You know Miaoke?” a raspy voice suddenly inquired from behind.

On a high-speed highway, this was alarming! Lin Xian and Zhao Ying Jun turned, shocked. A disheveled man emerged from the narrow back seat, clutching a crumpled bouquet of flowers. He produced an old double-barreled shotgun from among the flowers, aiming it at Lin Xian’s head.

“Turn around and drive,” he demanded, his eyes wild and voice harsh. “Take me to Miaoke now!”

This novel is translated and hosted on bcatranslation