Chapter 16: Sleep

Xu Yancheng ignored him as well.

As soon as the competition results were announced, Su Yi and Lin Lu both shot to the top of the trending searches. Their following grew rapidly, and fans of both sides fiercely argued over who was superior. From contest performance to background and credentials, even appearance and figure, every aspect was hotly debated. The quarrel raged on, impossible to suppress, only gradually subsiding a week later.

Xu Yancheng had just signed a major project, and Old Master Xu was especially delighted, declaring that this was the perfect opportunity to host a charity banquet and officially announce Xu Yancheng's entry into the Xu Group. The old man enthusiastically scanned the guest list, all the while berating Xu Jiaheng, “Your son is simply better than you. He’s only just returned, and already his achievements outstrip yours for the entire year.”

Xu Jiaheng, entirely unabashed, replied shamelessly, “The pupil surpasses the master.”

Xu Shanyi glanced at him, “Are you sure you were ever the master?”

Xu Jiaheng rubbed his nose, “The bloom was brief, but I did have my moment.”

His most prosperous days were those when his relationship with Roman was at its best.

Xu Shanyi snorted, unable to deny that Xu Yancheng had indeed inherited the outstanding genes of the Luo family. He’d heard much of Xu Yancheng’s decisive and efficient methods in the company lately. It wasn’t that the Xu family lacked talent, but his two sons hadn’t inherited his flair, nor had his eldest grandson, Xu Mingchuan. Mingchuan was solid and dependable, yet lacked a certain sharpness and ambition.

Xu Yancheng, on the other hand, resembled him a little, but even more so the Luo family.

He had considered grooming Xu Yancheng as his successor, but since the boy hadn’t grown up by his side, he still felt uncertain, needing to observe him for a few more years.

At that moment, Xu Yancheng was dining with Su Jinyuan.

The success of this project owed much to Su Jinyuan’s mediation and assistance, so Xu Yancheng invited him as thanks.

Su Jinyuan wiped his mouth and chuckled, “How long are you and Xiao Yi going to keep up this awkwardness?”

Xu Yancheng remained silent. Though he had sought Su Jinyuan’s help, he saw no reason to ingratiate himself.

Truth be told, he’d never learned the meaning of ‘pleasing’ someone.

“Your uncle knows Xiao Yi was at fault this time. Her mother and I have spoken to her, and she’s deeply regretful. But, Yancheng, Xiao Yi still cares about you. Surely you’re not unaware? Six years of affection—can you really just let it go?”

Xu Yancheng’s lips curved slightly. “Uncle Su, perhaps it’s best you don’t meddle.”

Seeing his lack of interest in conversation, Su Jinyuan let the rest of his words fade. He knew Xu Yancheng all too well—if he were one to listen to advice and speak easily, he wouldn’t be Xu Yancheng.

The Xu family’s banquet drew a sizable crowd of guests.

Lin Lu stood by the drinks counter, casually picking up a glass of wine.

She had been invited by Xu Mingchuan.

She had just taken a sip when she overheard two girls nearby whispering. Lin Lu didn’t move away, for their subject was—

“See that one standing next to Old Master Xu?”

Lin Lu looked over and saw Xu Yancheng.

He wore a crisp suit, immaculate and dignified, exuding an air of noble restraint. Yet his gaze was proud and indifferent, as if no one else mattered.

“Do you know how many women in North City want to…”

“What?”

“Sleep with him.”

Though the speaker had lowered her voice, Lin Lu still heard every word.