Chapter 239/240: Pleasing

Gu Qichen was clearly making excuses for Xia Yangyang. Liu Ruyan tactfully added, “Of course, today is Yangyang’s birthday. We’re hosting this banquet to celebrate.”

Several senior Gu family members were present. Xia Yangyang greeted each of them. She then saw Gu Zhaohan standing silently behind Gu Mingzhu, almost invisible. A pang of unexpected sadness squeezed her heart. Gu Qichen’s words, “Xiao Han likes you,” echoed in her mind. Xia Yangyang unconsciously shook her head. No way! Absolutely impossible! Gu Qichen was just overthinking.

Xia Yangyang and Gu Zhaohan exchanged brief greetings before parting. The birthday banquet differed from usual; it felt more like a lavish cocktail party. The banquet hall boasted a gourmet buffet, champagne towers, and lively conversations. A large dance floor was filled with waltzing guests. Many well-known artists from Star City International were also in attendance.

Xia Yangyang, though reluctant, participated in the celebration. Xia Liangdong and Liu Ruyan mingled with business moguls. However, Xia Yangyang felt this wasn't her birthday banquet, but a networking opportunity for the Gu family. She found the situation uncomfortable.

Xia Weiwei, initially chatting with Kyoto socialites, approached Gu Qichen upon seeing him, sweetly calling him "Brother-in-law." Gu Qichen and Xia Yangyang's gazes met. Xia Yangyang frowned; Xia Weiwei was wearing one of her dresses. Noticing Gu Qichen's attention, Xia Weiwei displayed a coy shyness. Liu Ruyan had advised her to emulate Xia Yangyang's simple style, suggesting a beige floral dress from Xia Yangyang's wardrobe.

To Xia Yangyang, Xia Weiwei said, “Brother-in-law, your stare makes me shy.”

Gu Qichen commented, "That dress"

Xia Weiwei's heart fluttered; it seemed to be working. Previously, Gu Qichen had shown little interest in her, but now he was engaging her. She eagerly awaited his praise.

Then, Gu Qichen coldly stated, "Quite ugly."

Xia Weiwei was stunned. He took Xia Yangyang's hand and left without waiting for a response. Xia Weiwei was furious, nearly tearing off the dress. She realized Xia Yangyang likely left the dress to make her look foolish.

Xia Yangyang chuckled, “That's a dress you bought. How can you call it ugly?” She added, “It looks beautiful on me. On anyone else, it’s hideous.” She pretended to sigh, “I don’t know what Xia Weiwei sees in you. She tries so hard to please you. Does she even like me, or is she just attracted to my status?”

Gu Qichen responded, “Then how do you know you aren’t attracted to my status?”

Xia Yangyang replied, “Because…last night you cried professing your love for me.”

Xia Yangyang blushed deeply. She wasn't in her right mind then and couldn't remember saying such a thing.

Gu Qichen smirked, “What? Don’t remember? Do you want a review today?”

Xia Yangyang exclaimed, “Gu Qichen, you’re acting like a rogue again!”