He Stood Up!
The news of Ding Ziyue and Jiang Linyi being expelled from the base quietly leaked among the elite circles.
The buzz started because the two had originally signed up for the horseback archery competition in the afternoon but cancelled at the last minute. Jiang Linyi’s official PR team made no explanation, as though some mysterious, irresistible force had intervened.
And what “irresistible force” in this territory could it be, if not *that man*?
Ding Ziyue and Jiang Linyi were separately escorted off the base. Song Yan and Wang Wu strictly followed Gu Cheng’s orders, delivering them directly to the city.
After stepping out of the car, Jiang Linyi, with a stormy expression, shook off their hold and pulled out his phone to call his family.
He wasn’t just an actor; he was also the young master of the Jiang family from the neighbouring province.
How could he allow himself and the woman he loved to be humiliated like this?
“Father, yes, I’ve run into some trouble here.”
Father Jiang immediately asked, “Who is it?!”
“Gu Cheng,” Jiang Linyi replied.
There was a long silence on the other end.
“Son, you’re currently in City A. Gu Cheng is not just a local kingpin—he’s practically a *local dragon*! If this had happened on our turf, no one would dare treat you like this. But on Gu Cheng’s territory? The fact that he only had you escorted out is already quite polite…”
Jiang Linyi clenched his eyes shut in frustration.
He didn’t mind enduring hardship himself, but was he supposed to let Ziyue suffer for no reason?
Tonight. Tonight, Ziyue must shine as the most radiant princess.
—
Meanwhile, in the other car.
Ding Ziyue, suppressing the excitement surging inside her, snapped 80 tearful and sorrowful selfies in the backseat.
Wang Wu: “…?”
Something about this woman didn’t seem quite right.
After meticulously editing her photos, Ding Ziyue posted them on her CM account:
@DingZiyue: “Everyone, I’m okay. I’ll still show up tonight with a smile~ [image][image]”
The post instantly sparked speculation. Some even guessed there was a rift between Ding Ziyue and Jiang Linyi.
Jiang Linyi saw her post too, standing in the wind and feeling an ache in his heart.
No one had ever made him feel this kind of pain before…
Suddenly, he realized it—he was truly done for, completely taken down by Ding Ziyue.
At that moment, Jiang Linyi’s agent’s van caught up. The agent, relieved to see Jiang Linyi unharmed, sighed.
The agent had never approved of Jiang Linyi’s relationship with Ding Ziyue. However, since the star insisted on making it public to give his girlfriend a sense of security, the team had no choice but to cooperate. But today, Ding Ziyue confronting *that* Young Master Gu directly was an incredibly reckless move!
“Linyi, let it go this time. Just don’t provoke Young Master Gu again in the future!”
Jiang Linyi gritted his teeth, unwilling to accept this. “He’s just… a crippled dragon.”
The agent quickly gestured for him to stop talking.
After a brief pause, Jiang Linyi instructed, “Book me the best stylist and bring over the custom evening suit that arrived a few days ago.”
He glanced at his reflection in the car window.
When it came to appearance and charisma, he never lost.
At tonight’s ball, he would ensure Ziyue had the best escort and became the envy of all.
—
For Gu Cheng, today was a day worth remembering.
If he had known that dealing with these two fools would break some kind of seal on him, he would’ve taken action long ago—back when Ding Ziyue called herself his “light.”
This bizarre set of rules required further observation.
But—
Gu Cheng glanced at Ning Yi, who was enthusiastically pestering the ever-reliable Assistant Zhou for the evening banquet menu.
Now isn’t too late, he thought with a faint air of detachment.
Leisurely shifting his posture in the wheelchair, Gu Cheng reflected.
Sitting in a wheelchair when his legs were weak and sitting in one when they were fine—those were two entirely different feelings.
Right now, Gu Cheng didn’t mind sitting.
But when he stood up, he would make sure to give Ning Yi a surprise.
The setting couldn’t be too ordinary.
Hmm.
Meanwhile, Assistant Zhou had been covertly observing Young Master Gu. Though Gu Cheng’s expression remained as composed as ever, Assistant Zhou could sense it—today, Young Master Gu was in an exceptionally good mood!
Could it be because he won the interactive game with his wife?
Assistant Zhou was certain—this sports event was bound to strengthen the bond between the Young Master and his wife. Once again, he had perfectly grasped Gu Cheng’s intentions.
In the future, he’d definitely plan more of these flexible arrangements!
Ning Yi, having received the evening banquet menu, carefully examined it.
Since the banquet was meant to entertain elite heirs and heiresses from across the provinces, it had an official air to it. Being an inter-provincial social event, the venue was set at the City Theatre, and the banquet’s dining options were high-end and exquisite.
The menu featured premium seafood dishes of the highest calibre. Just looking at the pictures made Ning Yi’s mouth water with anticipation!
As for the other activities at the banquet? She wasn’t particularly interested—those belonged to the ever-evolving emotional drama of the protagonists!
Oh, there was supposed to be a masquerade ball where male and female partners would wear masks and invite each other to dance. But what did that have to do with Ning Yi?
Her husband couldn’t dance, and if she found another partner, he’d probably get so jealous he’d jump up on the spot.
Shaking her head with a fond smile, Ning Yi had already made up her mind: she’d spend the evening feasting on seafood while watching the protagonists’ tortured love story unfold—perfect!
She patted her stomach and handed the menu back to Assistant Zhou, her face full of excitement.
Gu Cheng glanced at her with amusement. “Anything else you want to do?”
Ning Yi shook her head. “Nothing much, hubby.”
All her thoughts were already on the evening’s seafood!
“Alright,” Gu Cheng nodded. “Then let’s visit the stables.”
Ning Yi: “Huh?”
“You mentioned wanting to name a horse. The stables just received a few new ones, and it’s nearby,” Gu Cheng said, taking her wrist.
Ning Yi let out an excited “Wow!”
It had been so long since she’d seen Little Red (Xiaohong)!
The elite horseback archery event that afternoon was also held at Gu Cheng’s stables, but they had only sectioned off a small professional equestrian arena.
The rest of the land—Gu Cheng’s private property—remained vast and untouched.
As their car approached the stables, they passed by the archery competition area.
The crowd spotted the car immediately, their gazes lighting up with awe.
“Isn’t that Eldest Young Master Gu’s car?”
“The license plate confirms it.”
“So envious of that woman…”
“Ahhh, I wonder if there’ll be a chance to talk to Eldest Young Master Gu tonight?”
The limited-edition Maybach disappeared from view, leaving behind a trail of admiration.
For the past few years, while Gu Cheng was bedridden, Song Yan had been managing the western suburban stables, keeping them in pristine condition. Gu Cheng’s private meadow had remained completely off-limits.
When the car stopped, Gu Cheng instinctively wanted to step out—but paused.
No, this should be revealed to Ning Yi with a bit more ceremony.
So, in the end, he chose to remain in the wheelchair.
As they entered the private meadow, a black-and-white horse was already being led over from a distance.
“Hello, Xiaohong!”
Ning Yi waved excitedly at the horse—it was the first one she had ever ridden.
The last time she rode, Gu Cheng had helped her transition seamlessly through the training process, making her learning curve impressively fast.
Upon seeing them, Xiaohong pawed the ground enthusiastically, snorting and trotting over to Gu Cheng and Ning Yi.
Song Yan had assumed that after so many years apart, the horse would have grown unfamiliar with Gu Cheng and need time to reacquaint itself.
But to his astonishment, Xiaohong stopped before Gu Cheng, shook its head—and knelt down!
Song Yan: “!”
As expected of the Young Master! No matter how many years pass, his commanding aura remains unforgettable!
Ning Yi: “Haha.”
Well, the last time, Gu Cheng had trained it while in her body, so of course, it would be familiar ^_^
The new horses were of impeccable pedigree and stunning appearance. They were fully grown and even younger and more spirited than Xiaohong. Among them was a tall, jet-black horse like the night and a pure white, elegant beauty.
Both horses were for Ning Yi to name, and they would live at the stables under her chosen names.
Ning Yi’s eyes sparkled. “I need to think carefully!”
There was no way she’d settle for boring names like “Little Black” or “Little White”!
After the arrival of the new horses, they would first be trained by professional coaches. Those who understood horses could tell, just by listening, whether a horse was suitable for competition training. As such, newly arrived horses typically required test rides—but since Ning Yi was no expert, she certainly wouldn’t be allowed to try.
As Song Yan explained the process, he sighed inwardly—If only Young Master Gu could ride.
What were those wealthy young heirs participating in the archery competition compared to Gu Cheng? Gu Cheng could pierce a bullseye a hundred meters away while riding effortlessly!
Back in the day, his brothers had been completely awed by his abilities.
Meanwhile, Gu Cheng sat in his wheelchair, as inscrutable as ever, casting a glance at Ning Yi.
She was cautiously reaching out to touch the new, fiery-tempered horses. The proud animals refused to be handled, and after nearly getting bitten, Ning Yi obediently retracted her hand. Watching Song Yan and the others lead the horses away for test rides, she looked on enviously.
Gu Cheng: Heh.
If she wanted to see him ride, he could stand up and do it now.
After all… the first person to know his legs had recovered would undoubtedly be Ning Yi.
“Ah Yi,” Gu Cheng’s lips curved into a cold, faint smile. “Do you want to see—”
Before he could finish, Ning Yi suddenly exclaimed, “Wow, hubby! Your stables even have sheep!”
Gu Cheng: “?”
Across the meadow, a small white lamb appeared out of nowhere, standing a few meters away, staring at them with a blank, adorable expression. Its fluffy, clean coat looked well-groomed.
Song Yan hurried to explain, “Young Master, this sheep was sent over by a livestock farm from another province. Since the grass here grows well and there’s plenty of space, they delivered a small batch to raise here.”
Gu Cheng wasn’t particularly interested and responded with a casual, “Hmm.”
Meanwhile, Ning Yi was eagerly approaching the lamb. Unlike the proud horses, the little lamb was quite docile. Having never seen such a clean and lively animal in the post-apocalyptic world—where anything alive was just food—Ning Yi happily began petting it.
Gu Cheng snorted coldly.
What’s so fascinating about a sheep? Could it possibly compare to him riding a horse?
The lamb, lively and playful, started bumping its head against Ning Yi in a friendly manner.
After playing with it for a while, Ning Yi turned to glance at Gu Cheng, who sat in his wheelchair looking a bit grumpy. Lowering her voice, she whispered to the lamb, “Go keep your dad company.”
Then, even more softly, “Right now, he can only play with animals as short as you.”
Gu Cheng: I can hear that.
Sitting in his wheelchair, Gu Cheng let out a cold laugh. Who do you think you’re belittling?
When the little lamb really trotted over to him and had the audacity to nuzzle against his leg, Gu Cheng nearly reacted with a knee-jerk kick.
Lifting his gaze, he saw Ning Yi grinning mischievously in the distance.
He reached down, ruffled the lamb’s head a couple of times, and said darkly, “Go ask your mom what your name is.”
The lamb, as if it understood human speech, let out a soft “baaaa~~” and trotted back to Ning Yi.
Ning Yi, all smiles, said indulgently, “Alright, alright, I’ll think of a name for you.”
Not far away, Assistant Zhou and Song Yan quietly observed.
Song Yan turned to see Assistant Zhou wearing a warm, fatherly smile.
Song Yan: “? What’s with you?”
Assistant Zhou: “Didn’t you hear?”
Song Yan, confused: “Hear what?”
Assistant Zhou, grinning widely: “They called themselves dad and mom!”
Oh my god!
—Don’t let this ship kill me!!
With two new horses and now a little lamb to name, Ning Yi suddenly had three naming tasks ahead of her. It was quite a challenge.
She decided to go for a ride first to clear her mind and gather inspiration.
By now, Little Red was well accustomed to both Ning Yi and Gu Cheng’s scents. After stroking its head and bonding with it again, Ning Yi felt confident enough to mount.
Gu Cheng moved slightly but then waved to Song Yan, “Support her.”
“Yes, Young Master.”
Ning Yi, being naturally agile, mounted the horse with ease and quickly steadied herself. Soon enough, she was trotting around the meadow.
A good horse truly had a spirit of its own, matching Ning Yi’s movements and rhythm effortlessly.
Ning Yi galloped around joyfully, feeling the same exhilarating rush of cutting through the wind as last time—but this time, it felt a bit chilly.
After all, months had passed since her last visit, and it was already nearing November. Speaking of which, wasn’t Gu Cheng’s birthday coming up soon?
Not straying too far, Ning Yi trotted back. In the glow of the setting sun, she saw Gu Cheng sitting leisurely in his wheelchair, his gaze calm and steady as he watched her ride back. She couldn’t tell what he was thinking, but the scene was undeniably captivating.
No wonder his face had made the list of the world’s top 100 most attractive men.
Imagining the “walking hormone” mounted on a horse with a bow and arrow—yeah, that would be… something.
Ning Yi nudged the horse’s belly, pulled the reins to stop, and asked, “Hubby, do you want to ride~?”
Gu Cheng raised his face slightly.
The setting sun spilled entirely behind her, and the smile on Ning Yi’s face seemed to colour the entire meadow. Sitting atop the horse, her hair floated lightly in the air, her slender figure framed by the warm, expansive sky.
Gu Cheng silently observed, feeling like he was gazing at a painting.
“I—” he began.
Ning Yi interrupted with a playful grin, “Hehe, but I’m not letting you swap places!”
Because she was waiting for him to recover and ride himself!
So—hurry up and get better, hubby!
Ning Yi stuck out her tongue and teased, “Bleh!”
Gu Cheng looked at her vibrant, expressive face for a long moment before letting out a faint chuckle and leaning back leisurely in his wheelchair.
Little fool.
Just wait.
Eventually, after riding to her heart’s content, Ning Yi returned in the glow of the setting sun to name the three little animals.
Gu Cheng sat composedly to the side, waiting to hear her “masterpieces.”
Would she come up with something more meaningful than “Little Red”?
“First,” Ning Yi said confidently, stroking the lamb’s head, “this one is called ‘Baa Baa Puff Puff Fluffy White So Soft to Pet.’”
Gu Cheng: “?”
Ning Yi looked at him. “What’s wrong, hubby? Isn’t it cute?”
Gu Cheng: “…Cute.”
“Then repeat it!” Ning Yi insisted.
“…” Gu Cheng fell silent for several seconds before relenting, his tone resigned. “‘Baa Baa Puff Puff Fluffy White So Soft to Pet.’”
With his memory, remembering every word was no problem. But somehow, when these characters were strung together and spoken by someone as dignified as him, the result was… very bizarre.
Assistant Zhou, observing nearby: Ah, yes. This is love. I understand. Pure indulgence.
Gu Cheng glanced down at Ning Yi. “And the two horses? Are you going for the same style?”
“No, no!” Ning Yi waved her hands seriously.
Standing up, she pointed to the white horse. “Stand Tall.”
Then, to the black horse. “Run Fast.”
Gu Cheng: “?”
Ning Yi beamed. “So, hubby, how’s my naming skill?”
Gu Cheng’s face remained expressionless: As expected of my wife.
Ning Yi, however, was deeply moved by her own thoughtfulness.
To name the horses with blessings for her husband—how considerate was she! What a perfect, caring wife!
But Gu Cheng looked at her for a moment, then let out a cool laugh, his dark eyes glinting with amusement. “Ah Yi, who exactly are these names meant to hint at?”
Ning Yi immediately protested, “Hubby, I swear I’m not implying anything about you!”
She had been quietly keeping track of the current plot developments while enjoying the drama between the protagonists. In the original novel, after Gu Cheng regained his ability to stand, there was indeed a period when he remained in a wheelchair, becoming even more unpredictable and moody! His dominance over other male leads and rivals became even more casual and ruthless.
But by now, wasn’t it about time for the great CEO Gu to rise and crush everyone? Why wasn’t he up yet?
So, Ning Yi was simply trying to push him, to stimulate him, to help him take that final step toward his kingly return!
Gu Cheng’s lips curved. “Really? You’re not subtly suggesting I stand up and run fast?”
“No, hubby,” Ning Yi pouted, then said earnestly, “Actually, I’m just CPU-ing you!”
Gu Cheng: “?”
Assistant Zhou, who was familiar with internet slang, politely corrected, “Madam means PUA?”
“No,” Ning Yi replied confidently. “I’m KFC-ing him.”
Gu Cheng: “?”
Young Master Gu pushed his wheelchair and left.
It was hard to understand his wife’s mental world.
And he dreaded the day he might.
Nomad: Ning Yi humorously claims she’s “CPU-ing” Gu Cheng, implying she’s guiding or managing him like a computer processor. Assistant Zhou interprets it as “PUA-ing” (psychological manipulation), but Ning Yi denies it, instead saying she’s “KFC-ing” him—a random, playful twist that makes no sense.
Meanwhile, the archery competition at the sports event soon wrapped up, marking the end of this year’s elite sports meet.
For most people in the upper circles, the sports event was just entertainment. The true highlight was tonight’s networking banquet and masquerade ball!
In the world of elite families, it was instilled from a young age that mingling, exchanging information, and even fostering potential alliances through marriage could yield greater benefits.
Naturally, many people wanted to use this event as an opportunity to connect with Gu Cheng—after all, he embodied the fortune of a business emperor. What family wouldn’t want to bask in that glow?
At the closing ceremony of the sports event, the organizers had originally planned to invite Eldest Young Master Gu to deliver a speech. However, upon learning that he was spending quality time with his wife at the stables, they quickly gave up on the idea.
—Nobody wanted to risk getting on his bad side. Safety first!
As the time approached, Gu Cheng glanced at his watch and asked Ning Yi, “Hungry?”
Ning Yi felt a surge of emotion. Wow, hubby was now taking the initiative to care about her tummy! He was getting closer and closer to being a perfect husband. Could her little ‘blessing’ soon come true?
“Uh-huh,” she said, even though she wasn’t really hungry. “A little.”
Gu Cheng glanced into the distance and said casually, “I can prepare roasted lamb for you today.”
“??”
Ning Yi looked down at the lively little lamb bouncing around her feet, “Baa Baa Puff Puff Fluffy White So Soft to Pet.”
Although she was someone who had long adapted to scarcity and had no qualms about turning anything into food—Gu Cheng, you really are as cold-blooded as ever!
After thinking for a moment, she shook her head. “No.”
Gu Cheng raised an eyebrow, a trace of amusement flickering in his eyes. “Can’t bear to? You’re actually refusing food.”
Ning Yi huffed in response.
Seeing her firm refusal, Gu Cheng tempted her further, “Altay scorpion lamb, freshly slaughtered and roasted. Much better than the lamb leg you had yesterday.”
But Ning Yi still insisted, “No!”
Gu Cheng couldn’t help but laugh.
Then Ning Yi, scratching her head bashfully, revealed the real reason: “Because tonight I’m going to eat lots and lots of seafood.”
Gu Cheng: “Hmm?”
Ning Yi: “You can only have one gout-inducing feast per day!”
Health-conscious foodie, reporting for duty!
Gu Cheng: “…”
Quite adorable.
—
On the way back to the city, Assistant Zhou briefed Gu Cheng on the work that had piled up while he was accompanying his wife in the morning.
“The evening banquet will also be livestreamed on the CMore platform.”
“For the ecological model we proposed, the founder has already completed the entire framework for full industrial integration with the online mall. Our senior developers in the software department have reviewed it and provided very high praise…”
Ning Yi: Hehe.
Don’t ask. If you ask, all I’ll say is that I’ve been putting in a little effort behind the scenes while my husband works.
This was the olive branch she had extended to Gu Capital through her quiet involvement in the platform’s backend development.
Gu Cheng listened without much reaction and simply said, “Prepare the contract.”
Ning Yi: Hubby’s big investment is coming my way!!
Gu Cheng added, “Have the founder sign it in person.”
Assistant Zhou: “Understood!”
Ning Yi puckered her lips and blew a soft “mwah.”
Her mental calculations ran wild: This is the sound of money flowing toward me!
After finishing the briefing, Assistant Zhou habitually asked, “For tonight’s banquet, shall I prepare matching outfits for you and Madam in coordinated colours?”
Gu Cheng turned to glance at Ning Yi.
Previously, while confined to a wheelchair, he hadn’t cared much about what he wore. But now, things felt a little different.
With the change in his height and perspective, the way she saw him, the way others saw him—it would all be different.
Ning Yi’s eyes lit up. “Yes! Hubby and I should wear a couple’s set!”
A subtle sense of joy rose within Gu Cheng. He took her wrist and played with it in his palm.
Ning Yi continued enthusiastically, “Let’s go with pink!”
Gu Cheng calmly let go of her wrist and said, “I’ll wear black.”
Assistant Zhou struggled to suppress a grin. “Understood, Young Master.”
Ning Yi pouted. “Fine, then I’ll wear black too.”
Gu Cheng gave her a sidelong glance, as though by chance, and asked, “Is that friend of yours coming?”
Ning Yi: “You mean Captain Wan—bro?”
Gu Cheng narrowed his eyes. “Hmm.”
Ning Yi pulled out her phone. “I’ll ask him, okay?”
Why, did your three-legged race earlier leave you with lingering feelings for each other?
Gu Cheng: Heh.
He’d better show up.
Let him witness once and for all—186 cm can’t beat 188 cm.
—
Evening.
Outside the City Theatre.
As this banquet carried a semi-official nature, the event was meticulously formal. The grand staircase leading to the hall was adorned with a red carpet.
The wealthy heirs and heiresses from across the provinces had shed their sports attire and donned suits and evening gowns, instantly recreating the familiar glamour of the elite social arena.
The spectators who had been glued to the sports event over the past two days naturally didn’t miss this climactic finale.
[“Wow, thank you, CMore! Another chance to broaden my horizons!”]
[“Shouting—where’s Sister Ning? Where’s Young Master Gu? And Captain Wan?”]
[“Ahhh, the last time I saw Sister Ning in formal attire was at the jewellery gala. The anticipation is killing me!”]
The first to appear on camera, however, was Ding Ziyue, arm-in-arm with Jiang Linyi.
Her previously haggard appearance was nowhere to be seen, replaced by a radiant glow. Why?
[“OMG, is the Best Actor dressed for an awards ceremony?”]
[“Jiang Linyi’s styling today is clearly the work of a top-tier artist. He’s wearing an exclusive H-line haute couture piece that celebrities only wear for significant events. He’s really pulling out all the stops for Ding Ziyue!”]
[“Ahhh, so envious!”]
[“Who wouldn’t want a life like Ding Ziyue’s?”]
Ding Ziyue’s smugness was practically written all over her face!
She knew it—only through trials and tribulations could Jiang Linyi love and cherish her even more deeply!
Gu Cheng had truly outdone himself, becoming the catalyst that pushed her love story forward!
—Tonight, who wouldn’t envy her?
—With a partner like Jiang Linyi at her side, who could possibly outshine her?
Ding Ziyue was so elated she felt like dancing on the spot.
Jiang Linyi, holding her hand tightly, whispered, “I’ll always be here, standing by your side, making you the most dazzling one of all.”
Ding Ziyue blushed. “I believe in you, Brother Linyi.”
But just as they reached the entrance, they were separated.
Jiang Linyi, clearly triggered by PTSD from being split up earlier, frowned, but the organizers quickly explained:
“Apologies, Mr. Jiang and Miss Ding. Since tonight’s banquet has a matchmaking aspect, we’ve set up a special rule for the evening’s masquerade ball—”
“Male and female guests must enter from separate sides. When the lights dim, it’ll signal the start of the ball—guests will find their beloved partner to dance with!”
Jiang Linyi smiled confidently. “No problem. Of course, I’ll recognize Ziyue.”
Ding Ziyue: “Brother Linyi, I’ll find you too!”
[“Ooh, this rule is kind of fun!”]
[“But does this seem fair to Eldest Young Master Gu? Hahaha!”]
[“He’s the only one in a wheelchair; Sister Ning can spot him in seconds!”]
[“Haha, Gu de Mo Ning shippers are living for this sugar tonight!”]
When Ning Yi arrived, the live-stream audience had been eagerly awaiting her entrance.
The moment she appeared, the comments exploded!
[“Ahhh, Sister Ning is wearing C-line haute couture! That pearl-accented black evening dress with the subtle V-neck is absolutely stunning!”]
[“Ning Ning Ning! Sister Ning forever!”]
[“Wait… where’s Eldest Young Master Gu??”]
Gu Cheng, just before leaving, had been held up by a billion-dollar business deal. He was likely on his way now.
Ning Yi, having already checked the dinner schedule, knew that waiting even a second longer might cost her a crab leg, so she came ahead on her own.
After all, Ning Yi wasn’t here to dance—who would she even dance with? The seafood buffet awaited her!
With a bright smile, Ning Yi walked straight into the women’s side of the banquet hall.
Inside, the elite socialites from other provinces had already begun networking from all angles.
“That’s the son of the Gu family from City A, the one in blue.”
“Did you know Zhao San recently became a rising star? His company co-founded the CMore platform with someone else. I’m planning to chat with him later.”
“Hey, you all have CMore accounts, right? Let’s follow each other!”
“Sure, sure!”
Ning Yi passed through the crowd nonchalantly.
Her platform had already seamlessly integrated into this world of elite romance novels.
As expected of me~
Meanwhile, the conversations among the heiresses inevitably converged on the same topic:
“So, when is Eldest Young Master Gu arriving?”
“It’s been two days at the sports event, and I still haven’t had a chance to talk to him.”
“So what if he’s married? I’ve looked into the Ning family—they’ve long since fallen from grace. Besides, that Ning Yi woman isn’t even a true heiress. She was only brought back this year. She offers no real benefit to Eldest Young Master Gu.”
“But our family is in the tech industry, which aligns with Eldest Young Master Gu’s future plans. I’m sure he’d be interested in me.”
“Let’s be honest—where is there love in the elite circles?”
“If Eldest Young Master Gu fully recovers, can you imagine how many families would push for an alliance with the Gu family?”
“When it comes to benefits, do you think he’d choose Ning Yi?”
—
On the men’s side of the banquet hall:
“You’re all waiting to talk to Eldest Young Master Gu?”
“Well, in that case, I think it’s fair for me to have a word with his wife, don’t you? Hahaha.”
It wasn’t just this young master; several others were intrigued by Ning Yi.
It wasn’t just her beauty—there was a certain inexplicable charm about her, as if she had been tempered in a different environment. She exuded both grace and boldness, leaving a lasting impression on anyone who saw her.
“Everyone will be wearing masks later anyway. Just make sure to memorize her dress now, and then go over when the time comes—”
—
Listening to the various whispers and looking at the sea of people, Ning Yi couldn’t help but marvel—there are so many elites in this world?
But she didn’t care about any of this because… the food was being served! ^_^
In both the waiting halls, there were long buffet tables neatly lined with silver chafing dishes, offering a grand seafood feast flown in from across the globe.
Fresh Boston lobsters, saucy snow crab legs, king crab legs, zesty mussels, marinated oysters, sea snails, and an array of shellfish filled the air with a tantalizing aroma.
The heiresses, however, seemed disinterested, each sipping champagne with an air of indifference.
Ning Yi: Let’s dig in √
She started by devouring the oysters, moving on to cracking open crab legs, all while mentally calling out to Gu Cheng: “Hubby, where are you?”
From the other side, a faintly amused voice replied, “Missing me already? Almost there.”
“Hehe, hubby,” Ning Yi said, “just come straight here ^3^.”
The next moment, she swapped Gu Cheng over to face a plate piled high with hard crab legs.
“Baby wants meat! Hubby, peel it for me!”
Gu Cheng: “…”
Resigned, he picked up the crab cracker.
Physically, he was still sitting in the car, but he wondered if Ning Yi noticed anything different after swapping into his body, especially his recovering legs.
Though he wasn’t a fan of seafood, Gu Cheng was skilled and quickly peeled an entire plate of crab meat for her.
“All done.”
Ning Yi swapped back gleefully, happily munching away with an audible “nom nom.”
Gu Cheng asked, “…Did you notice anything unusual?”
“Unusual?” Ning Yi took a big bite of the fresh, tender crab meat he had peeled. “Oh, it’s especially delicious?”
Gu Cheng: … Fine.
She’s so focused on eating that she probably didn’t even move while in my body. Forget noticing his legs.
Ning Yi continued crunching through her pile of meat, her heart and stomach thoroughly content. But then, a bit of guilt crept in.
She needed to eat vegetables now. Healthy eating. But she only wanted meat.
What to do?
“Hubby, your turn!”
Swapped into Gu Cheng’s body again, he raised an eyebrow. “What now?”
“Help your baby eat some veggies to balance the nutrition,” Ning Yi said matter-of-factly.
Gu Cheng: “…?”
So much for being a “healthy foodie.” You’re delegating the “healthy” part to me, huh?
Gu Cheng expressionlessly helped Ning Yi finish a plate of kale salad.
Once Ning Yi swapped back, she was completely satisfied.
“I really love you, hubby,” she said sincerely. “You can help your baby with everything.”
So reliable. How could anyone live without him?
Gu Cheng: “Heh.”
What I’ll do for you in the future will be even more.
Don’t cry then.
Adjusting his cuffs, he asked indifferently, “How much longer?”
Assistant Zhou, barely containing his excitement, said, “Young Master, we’re almost there!”
—
At the banquet, Ning Yi was the only one quietly eating in a corner, yet all eyes in the room kept sneaking glances at her.
[“Aww, Ning Bao is just too cute!”]
[“Eating like crazy on her own but still balancing it with salad! Adorable!”]
[“I’d watch an entire stream of Sister Ning just eating!”]
[“Wait! Look! The lights are dimming! The ball is starting—”]
The banquet hall plunged into complete darkness for a few minutes. When the lights came back on, the screens dividing the male and female guests had been removed—
And everyone was now wearing masks.
Ning Yi touched her mask and smiled with satisfaction—
It was only a half-mask! Haha!
Unlike the full-face masks some others wore, hers wouldn’t interfere with her eating at all!
The audience was thrilled with the unique atmosphere and tried to recognize people in the dimly lit, flickering ballroom.
[“Jiang Linyi is the easiest to spot!”]
[“He went straight for Ding Ziyue, confidently took her hand, and—waaah!”]
“Looks like the first male guest has found his beloved partner! Let’s all give them a round of applause~”
Jiang Linyi extended a hand with deep affection and elegance. “Ziyue, will you dance with me?”
Ding Ziyue shyly placed her hand on his. “Of course, Brother Linyi!”
The crowd applauded as the spotlight shone on Ding Ziyue’s radiant smile.
In this moment, she knew she had won.
Does Ning Yi even have a partner? What could she possibly use to compete with me?
[“Oh, I see Captain Wan!”]
[“That lazy stride, those silver earrings—it’s definitely him!”]
While people mingled, Ding Ziyue, amidst the glitz and glamor, spotted Ning Yi eating alone and immediately walked over.
“Oh my, little sister, why don’t you have a partner? Let me introduce you to someone!” Ding Ziyue waved her arm theatrically without waiting for a response.
“Everyone~ This is my sister, Ning Yi! She doesn’t have a partner and will be so pitiful when the dancing starts. Could you all help me look after her?”
Instantly, three young masters approached.
“Ning Miss, I’m the second son of XX Group…”
[“What are you doing, Ding Ziyue?!”]
[“Sister Ning is either with Young Master Gu or Captain Wan!”]
Ding Ziyue thought she was being considerate—after all, even if Young Master Gu did come, he wouldn’t be able to dance with Ning Yi, right?
The other heiresses didn’t care about Ning Yi.
“Where’s Eldest Young Master Gu?”
“I haven’t seen a wheelchair…”
“Don’t tell me he isn’t coming. If I’d known, I wouldn’t have bothered coming either…”
As people matched with their dance partners, the live-stream audience suddenly noticed a man entering the hall.
[“Wait, who is that?!”]
[“That figure—oh my god!”]
Ning Yi, with her back to the entrance, didn’t notice him. Her ears were filled with the buzzing of voices and the greasy chatter of the three young masters Ding Ziyue had sent her way.
It felt like being in a zombie horde during the apocalypse.
So noisy. So noisy. My head hurts.
The young masters continued their pitches:
“Our family has industries in dining and more. If Ning Miss ever needs anything—”
The rest of the banquet hall had erupted into whispers and suppressed gasps.
No one could identify the man who had just walked in, yet his presence was unmistakable.
From his cold, pale neck to his broad shoulders and lean waist, his figure was perfectly proportioned, like a sculpture brought to life. His deliberate, unhurried stride carried an aura of dominance as he entered the ballroom, cutting effortlessly through the crowd.
The crowd stilled—
Finally, the man stopped behind Ning Yi.
The chaotic noise around her suddenly quieted.
When Ning Yi turned around, her gaze was first met with the sight of a toned chest beneath a crisp suit.
Tilting her head back further, she saw a mask looking down at her.
Her first reaction: Who is this? So tall!
She had to crane her neck just to look up.
Behind her, one of the provincial young masters, now overshadowed in height by the man who had appeared, was visibly annoyed. He attempted to reclaim Ning Yi’s attention. “Um, Miss Ning, if there’s ever anything you need help with, I’d be more than happy to—”
Before he could finish, the banquet hall lights suddenly brightened.
This signalled that it was time for everyone to remove their masks.
—
“Need help?”
A cold, familiar voice resonated in Ning Yi’s ears—and through the entire hall.
She blinked, startled: ?
The tall man in front of her raised his long, well-defined fingers and slowly removed the mask, revealing his perfect forehead, striking brows, and sharp eyes—eyes filled with an unmistakable possessiveness.
“And why didn’t you call your husband over?”
The room fell into dead silence.
[“Holy crap!”]
[“It’s Eldest Young Master Gu!!!”]
[“Oh my god ahhhh!”]
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