"Why are both the Lian and Lei families showing such disregard? Who exactly is this upper-class guest?" A woman dressed in an extravagant gown said, her face filled with confusion.
A man beside her furrowed his brow slightly, pondering for a moment before responding, "If you ask me, it must be some hidden family force trying to establish a foothold in our city."
Upon hearing this, the crowd nodded in agreement, their faces revealing signs of concern. "Does that mean our lives will only get harder from now on?" another person said anxiously.
The murmurs of discussion rose and fell, filling the lower banquet hall with an atmosphere of tension and unease.
Chi Qiyun and Lei Ji had just returned to their previous positions. They shook their heads at the investors seated around the table, indicating their disapproval. Chi Qiyun's expression was particularly grim; her heart was heavy with disappointment and anger.
At this auction, she had never anticipated that the Ye family would put the cooperation agreement up for bid. She had been confident that with the strength of the Chi and Lei families combined, they would surely secure this deal. If she could obtain this agreement, her father would undoubtedly let her manage the Chi family's business. This would give her a better chance to inherit the Chi family fortune and fulfill her ambitions.
Unfortunately, all of that was now turning to dust.
With these thoughts swirling in her mind, Chi Qiyun stubbornly raised her head to glance towards the upper banquet hall. However, all she saw was emptiness. The two mysterious guests had already left the banquet table.
A wave of deep despair washed over her; she knew that once this opportunity slipped away, it might be a long time before another one came around. She clenched her fists tightly, silently vowing to find a way to reclaim what belonged to her.
At that moment, Lei Ji also wore a dark expression. He had initially thought that this collaboration was a done deal but hadn’t expected an unexpected twist to emerge. He began calculating his next steps in his mind, contemplating how to respond to this sudden change.
Missing out on this cooperation with the Ye family was undoubtedly losing out on a significant opportunity.
He thought he could secure this deal with the Chi family, but unfortunately, the higher-ups showed them no respect at all.
A bright moon hung high in the sky, radiating a silvery glow like a jade plate. Its light poured down, illuminating the vast and boundless sea. The shimmering waves sparkled under the moonlight, resembling countless dazzling jewels scattered across a deep blue velvet carpet.
Chi Mu Jiu leaned quietly against the railing, her eyes gently closed as the sea breeze brushed against her face. She took several deep breaths, savoring this tranquil moment. It wasn't until she felt a soft garment draped over her shoulders that she slowly opened her eyes.
The wind was strong; she needed to be careful not to catch a chill.
Du Heng Yan's gentle voice sounded in her ear as he pulled her closer to him. The sea breeze swept by again, carrying with it the unique salty scent of the ocean. Chi Mu Jiu could also catch a whiff of the distinct fragrance emanating from the coat draped over her—faint sandalwood mixed with a barely noticeable hint of tobacco. This scent brought her comfort and even joy.
"Du Heng Yan, the moonlight is truly beautiful," she said, lifting her gaze to the bright moon. The moonlight flowed like water over her face, adding an extra touch of grace to her features. Under the moonlight, she appeared enchanting, like a fairy.
"In my eyes, you shine even brighter under the moonlight," Du Heng Yan remarked, his smile never fading from his eyes.
"Du Heng Yan, I've suddenly noticed that you’ve been smiling more and more," she said, almost whispering the last part.
"Hmm?" He tilted his head slightly, wanting to hear her more clearly.
"I mean, you too."
"What do you mean?"
"The beauty under the moonlight."
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