Chapter 22

"Master Chen’s discretion is truly impeccable," Rong Xi said with a giggle. There was not a trace of displeasure on her face; instead, she teased, "But with such a jade-like beauty, anyone would keep her under tight wraps, wouldn't you agree, brother?"

"Oh? Haha, yes, yes, of course one would hide her!" Rong Zhenlin, who had been caught off guard, replied reflexively. He had not yet had a chance to look closely at Master Chen’s fiancée, but upon hearing her words, curiosity stirred within him. He fixed his gaze upon her, and found he could no longer look away.

Chu Yitong was dressed in a pure white shirt today. The V-neck design was perfectly cut, revealing her elegant collarbones. Aside from a delicate lace trim along the button placket, there was no other ornamentation—simple and sophisticated. Her long, ink-black hair cascaded over her shoulders. With her head slightly bowed, she looked like a refined ink wash painting under the shifting light and shadow, beautiful to the point of perfection.

"You two are too kind," Xie Chenjing said, turning his head slightly. Since her initial surprise, she had maintained this quiet, obedient demeanor. His gaze swept over her attire—a white shirt, much like his own. *Hmm, a matching set,* he thought, feeling quite pleased.

Rong Xi rested her chin on her hand, staring at Chu Yitong with an expression of naive envy. "Big sister is truly beautiful; my brother is completely dumbstruck." She reached out and nudged him. "Brother, if you keep staring, Master Chen is going to get jealous."

"Haha, don't mind him. Master Chen’s fiancée is truly a rare beauty. I apologize for my lack of composure!" The more he looked at the little beauty, the more familiar she seemed. It must be fate—she was destined to be his. He began to hatch a plan to steal the man's fiancée; the thought alone felt exhilarating.

*Hmph, Qingcheng Group, a rising star? What is that, really? Just some newcomer that appeared out of nowhere. I don't understand why Father places such importance on them. The Rong family has battled in the business world for decades; what is there to fear?*

A cold, icy gaze swept over the two of them, and he curled his lips into a smile that carried a hint of frost. Just as he was about to speak, the unique, clear voice of the girl beside him rang out: "I will be eighteen in a month."

Xie Chenjing let out a low, appreciative chuckle and looked at Rong Xi. "My apologies, Yiyi is young and doesn't know any better." There was no hint of an apology in his tone—it was a blatant display of protection and mockery.

Rong Xi gripped her wine glass tightly, her smile stiffening at the corners of her mouth. She had been too hasty. Her gaze landed on Chu Yitong—features like a painting, expression indifferent. With their similar clothing and mirrored expressions, it was hard not to believe they were truly an engaged couple.

But she would not give up. Her peripheral vision flickered toward the infatuated Rong Zhenlin. Besides, with this lecherous pig's help, it would be a shame not to seize the opportunity. She smiled sweetly, "Look at me, my tongue ran away with me. Please, little sister, don't be angry."

"I am an only child!" There are some people who are like thorns—immune to both soft and hard tactics.

"Yiyi, don't be naughty." His slender fingers rested on her head, sliding down her long hair to her shoulder. He said softly, "Eat something; we should be taking our leave shortly." He pushed the sliced steak toward her, a flicker of cold sharpness in his eyes.

Chu Yitong looked at the steak in front of her, cut into small, uniform pieces. She had been curious earlier why he had been staring at his lunch; now she realized he hadn't touched his own meal at all. His steak was completely untouched, save for the fact that it had been neatly partitioned. A strange sensation stirred in her heart.

Since the matter was a distraction, there was no need for idle conversation. She picked up her knife and fork and focused on eating. After finishing about half, she put down her utensils and looked up at him.

"Full?" He raised an eyebrow slightly. She had eaten so little; no wonder she was so thin.

"I can't eat any more." Xie Chenjing offered a soft "Mhm," pulled her plate toward him without a care for those around them, and began to eat in a measured, deliberate manner. Once he was satisfied, he took her by the hand, stood up to offer their farewells, and departed quickly.