Chapter 164/165: Shen Manbing's Sudden Visit

Gu Qichen answered a phone call and left the private room. Xia Yangyang, though present, was distracted.

Noticing this, Xue Shaotang said, “Sister-in-law, don’t worry. I just checked; it’s the company secretary. He’s probably busy with work. Ah Chen isn’t like us—he doesn’t have many admirers. For years, there’s only been one, Sister Bingbing…”

He immediately regretted his words. Annoyed, he slapped his mouth, exclaiming, “Look at my big mouth! Sister-in-law, please forgive me. I’ll drink three shots as penance.” He waved a hand. “Pour me some wine.”

Despite Xia Yangyang's protests, Xue Shaotang dutifully downed three drinks. She merely pretended not to mind. Even his friends knew about Gu Qichen and Shen Manbing's long-standing, deep relationship.

Xia Yangyang had never inquired about Gu Qichen's feelings for Shen Manbing, nor dared she. At least, as a husband, he fulfilled his duties and always protected her. As for Shen Manbing… Xia Yangyang decided to leave it to time.

At that moment, the private room door opened. Xia Yangyang assumed it was Gu Qichen returning. Unexpectedly, Shen Manbing entered.

The lively atmosphere instantly froze. No one anticipated her arrival. Even Mu Liancheng was surprised; knowing Gu Qichen would be there, he’d deliberately not invited Shen Manbing.

Shen Manbing, in a long black dress, a black suit draped over her shoulders, her makeup flawless and her long, wavy hair cascading, entered with an imposing presence. She said, “Liancheng, weren't you insincere not inviting me to your birthday?”

Mu Liancheng hastily apologized. “Sister Bingbing, you’re a superstar, a busy person. With your schedule, wouldn't I be imposing on you? You didn't need to bother with my birthday.”

Shen Manbing presented a gift box. “Your birthday present.”

Mu Liancheng was pleasantly surprised. “Sister Bingbing, this is too much!” Inside was a new, limited-edition A. Lange & Söhne watch.

Shen Manbing explained, “I know you collect watches. This is a gift I had someone bring back from Germany. It’s limited to one hundred worldwide and hasn’t been sold yet. I thought you’d like it.”

Mu Liancheng beamed. “Since childhood, only Sister Bingbing has been so generous. Thank you! I love it!”

Shen Manbing’s gaze swept the room, finally settling on Xia Yangyang. Tension filled the air, particularly for Mu Liancheng, who looked worried. Shen Manbing's unexpected appearance, especially with such a lavish gift, suggested ulterior motives. She never cared about anyone but Gu Qichen. Her presence was undoubtedly due to Gu Qichen’s presence, likely targeting him. However, Gu Qichen was absent, and his young wife seemed no match for Shen Manbing. If Shen Manbing chose to embarrass her, he wasn't sure how to handle it.

Mu Liancheng subtly signaled Lin Zhiwei to find Gu Qichen. Lin Zhiwei quietly left the private room. Shen Manbing approached Xia Yangyang.