Chapter 163: The Mu Family's Child Bride

Several guests continuously approached to offer toasts. After paying their respects to the director, they did the same to Gu Qichen. Naturally, as it was Xia Yangyang's wrap party, she was the star of the event. Although Xia Yangyang was drinking juice instead of alcohol, she felt somewhat full after a while.

Midway through the banquet, Gu Qichen stood up and said, "I have a few friends here. I'm going to take Yangyang to meet them."

Xia Yangyang followed Gu Qichen, curiously asking, "Who are these friends?"

Gu Qichen explained, "It's Mu Liancheng's birthday; he's holding a small party. I ran into him upon arrival; it wouldn't be right not to greet him. This way, you'll meet them, too."

Xia Yangyang was familiar with Mu Liancheng. He was a member of one of Feng City's four prominent families—the Gu, Lin, Mu, and Shen families. These families had extensive business dealings and intertwined interests spanning generations. The Mu family was a frequent topic of conversation. Mu Liancheng was the sole third-generation heir. With few descendants, the family's vast fortune was largely controlled by the Old Lady. Her sole wish was to have a great-grandson to continue the Mu lineage. Therefore, it was rumored that she had raised a daughter-in-law for Liancheng since childhood, forcing their marriage upon reaching adulthood, and sending them abroad. However, the young Master Mu despised his arranged bride and never publicly acknowledged their marriage, constantly clamoring for a divorce. The problem was, his petite wife readily agreed to an amicable separation. Their relationship was perpetually strained. Yet, despite two years passing, the divorce hadn't happened.

Curiosity piqued, Xia Yangyang asked, "If it's Young Master Liancheng's birthday party, will his fabled arranged wife be present?"

Gu Qichen replied, "We'll have to wait and see."

Accompanying Gu Qichen, Xia Yangyang passed through several water corridors and entered the most extravagant suite at the venue's eastern end—perhaps the most refined and peaceful area of Lanting Water Village. However, upon entering, a lively atmosphere greeted her. Seven or eight men were present, each accompanied by a stunning woman. Xia Yangyang recognized many of them as famous actresses.

Zhang Lixin, the lead in Director Feng's new film, was one of the renowned "Feng Girls," enjoying a surge in popularity. Bai Zhi, known as the "Fairy Sister" for her demure screen image, had countless devoted fans. Mi Ke's recent participation in the Paris Victoria's Secret Show had significantly boosted her fame and value. Many other familiar faces from the entertainment industry were present. Xia Yangyang was astonished.

They had apparently finished eating. Some played billiards, others rolled dice on couches, and some sang karaoke. Bai Zhi, who usually projected a pure image, was sitting coquettishly on a man's lap. "Young Master Xue," she said, "My hand slipped. Could you give me another chance?"

Young Master Xue, with a sly smile, teased, "You wanted to play Jenga. We agreed that whoever caused the first collapse had to remove an article of clothing. No take-backs. Start undressing."

Reluctantly, Bai Zhi removed her small lace shawl, revealing a skimpy tank top. After undressing, she lightly punched his chest. "You have no pity!"

Xue laughed deeply. "Continue. I intend to account for every layer of your clothing today."

"You're terrible!"

Xia Yangyang stood at the entrance, shocked by the scene unfolding before her.