802 Dangerous Night
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CHAPTER 802
The Halloween party was in full swing, with vibrant costumes and lively conversations filling the big halls. Andromeda's eyes widened as she took in the sight before her.
People had gone all out with their outfits, dressed as various film characters, cartoons, and anime figures. It was a visual feast, and she couldn't help but feel impressed.
Seeking out the boisterous Yin Lifen, Andromeda quickly spotted her new friend amidst the crowd and hurried to meet her. Andromeda could not say she was not impressed by her get-up.
Yin Lifen was dressed in a stunning pink dress, resembling Princess Aurora from Sleeping Beauty. She appreciated the well-crafted crown adorning Yin Lifen's head.
"Nice one," Andromeda praised, her gaze fixed on the intricate details of the costume.
Yin Lifen beamed at the compliment and returned the praise. "You, on the other hand, deserve such praise. I love your outfit."
Liu Xueyi chimed in, supporting Yin Lifen's words. "I told her so."
Just as the two ladies were engrossed in their conversation, Li Jing and Ye Cheng approached them, wearing smiles on their faces.
"The Mother of Dragons—Daenerys Targaryen," Li Jing announced, her hands placed gently on her stomach. "Truly wonderful, even with the crown."
Andromeda accepted the compliment gracefully, grateful for the recognition.
Her costume was meticulously put together, featuring a long black tunic with fitted sleeves, a black cape draping from her back, and matching black boots. Her hair was styled exactly like Daenerys Targaryen's.
Li Jing, on the other hand, donned a magnificent Maleficent costume. It was clear she had spared no effort in creating such a crafty outfit.
"Maleficent," Andromeda praised, momentarily stealing the spotlight from Liu Xueyi.
Li Jing smiled in response. "Why, thank you."
As the ladies engaged in conversation, leaving the men momentarily alone, Ye Cheng turned to Liu Xueyi and inquired about his costume.
"Nice one. And you are?" Ye Cheng asked, curiosity evident in his voice.
Liu Xueyi grinned mischievously. "Don't tell me you can't guess? Man, I am Legolas from Lord of the Rings."
"Legolas?" Ye Cheng expressed his disbelief, unable to contain his surprise.
Liu Xueyi chuckled. "Yes, I ditched the blonde hair just to be natural." He patted the bow slung over his shoulder, emphasizing his character.
Ye Cheng couldn't help but remark, "Yes, very natural."
Aiden, who had been relatively quiet, finally spoke up. "And you? Let me guess. You're Aquaman, right? But what happened to your trident and the rest of your outfit?" Aiden asked with a smirk, trying to hold back his laughter.
Ye Cheng shrugged, undeterred. "Somewhere. I'll be fully dressed when it's time for my speech."
Aiden playfully defended his choice. "Hey, it's a free world, man. I love Superman."
"Sure," Liu Xueyi replied, rolling his eyes good-naturedly. Their banter was interrupted as they noticed the ladies engrossed in conversation nearby.
"Anyways, a nice party you've got here, Ye Cheng," Liu Xueyi complimented, taking a moment to appreciate the atmosphere. "I must say, you've outdone yourself."
Ye Cheng smiled, appreciating the praise. "Thank you. While we get to know each other better, we can also discuss one or two business matters. I'd love to explore opportunities in your city."
Liu Xueyi nodded enthusiastically. "Anytime. Let's make it happen."
With an air of determination, Liu Xueyi shook his head at Ye Cheng, silently disapproving of his funny audacity.
Dream Star Corporation was an influential force within the entire country. They needed no complaints or obstacles to hinder their expansion.
However, striking a deal with someone like Ye Cheng had the potential to catapult the Liu Company to greater heights.
"Enjoy the party for now, and I'll be back soon," Ye Cheng informed him, taking his leave.
Left alone with Aiden, Liu Xueyi engaged in casual conversation, attempting to pass the time. Meanwhile, as the girls began discussing their costumes and various other topics, they quickly formed a bond akin to long-time friends.
In this moment, Andromeda discovered the true nature of Li Jing, realizing that she was not a snobby or condescending person.
Li Jing efficiently handled the tasks at hand, ensuring things progressed smoothly. Eventually, the time came for the opening speech, and both Ye Cheng and Li Jing adorned their costumes and ascended the stage.
"I look forward to it. It'll be nice."
21:53
Andromeda felt as if she had infiltrated the business world, transcending her role as a mere fashion designer and embodying the persona of a successful businesswoman and the event presented an opportunity for Li Jing to introduce Andromeda to influential individuals, all of whom became personal customers of her clothing line.
On the other hand, once Ye Cheng concluded his business affairs, Liu Xueyi was introduced to Ye Cheng's vice CEO, Yi Wang Lei.
"Liu Xueyi. Nice to meet you."
Both men shook hands, and when Yi Wang Lei noticed Aiden, he called out, "Jia Huang."
"Jia Huang?"
"Yes, that's his name. Don't tell me they've filled your head with his English name."
"I won't tell you."
Yi Wang Lei shook his head, amused. "You're quite something, you know. I'm sure the others would love to meet you too."
"The others?"
"Yes, Fong Wei Ling is one of them. Dealing with Ye Cheng will bring you into contact with them. I can already see that he has taken a liking to you. I believe we'll be seeing more of each other in the future, Mr. Liu."
"I look forward to it. It'll be nice."
With the Halloween party in full swing, the group of friends immersed themselves in the festivities, forging new connections while celebrating the spirit of the occasion.
By the time it ended, they bade their farewells to the girls and Ye Cheng's acquaintances.
********
In the dead of the night, while the city was preparing for an early sleep, a group of five men rushed out of a car with several gallons in their hands as they tried to open it, while two of the men went around for a survey of the area.
They were dressed like ordinary citizens but carried weapons on their belts—a knife strapped by a leather strap. They wore dark sunglasses and hats pulled low over their faces so no one could recognize them from afar.
Their target was located at the back entrance of a building where there wasn't much security presence. The only thing standing between them and their objective was a small guardhouse manned by three guards who stood watch outside the door leading inside.
The leader of this team took note of the situation before him and gave orders to his subordinates. "We have our way through," he announced confidently. He then turned toward the closest member of his crew. "You go first."
The subordinate nodded obediently and approached the gate, pulling out his weapon. As soon as he reached behind the guard house, he raised his arm high above his head, ready to impale his dagger on the man closest to him, the sound of a gunshot went off, scaring the life out of everyone.
Bang!
All eyes went wide as they glance around only to see a dead man behind them with a bullet wound to his forehead and blood trickling down his face.
"Fuck! Abandon mission, we've been compromised."