9th September. Ren Zexi's birthday party.
Jing Xuehao straightened his suit once more as he glanced around the grandeur surroundings. Ever since he stepped past the main gate, it was as if he had entered a new universe. Vast expanse of a breathtaking garden, sparkling lights that hung over the lamp posts, luxurious castle-like mansion that he could only see on TV, the rows of expensive cars that shone under the moonlight, everywhere screamed of wealth and status, something that he didn't possess for as long as he lived.
Although all of Ren Zexi's classmates were invited, the party didn't seem to be directed toward youngsters as the atmosphere was unusually solemn and formal. Everyone wore their best suits and gowns — in which Jing Xuehao praised his own wits for renting the most expensive suit there was in the store — and he could even see a few famous figure that often appeared in news such as Congressman Li, Chairman Ruan, Minister Ong, even a few A rate actors and actresses were invited. Cameras were set in a few corners and people with name tags from reputable newspaper companies were present to write about this party which happened only once in a blue moon.
The area was secured by many black suited bodyguards and a few officers in police uniforms. Even Jing Xuehao had to follow a string of procedures just to be able to get in. If he didn't have the invitation that clearly stated that he was Ren Zexi's classmate, he would be treated even stricter.
This kind of level could even match the President's birthday party! As expected of the heir of Lu Group...
He clenched his fists and sneered. Heir? Yeah, right. He would make sure to expose everything tonight! Jing Xuehao couldn't wait to see Ren Zexi's devastated face when his low embarrassing status was exposed for everyone to see!
"—Xuehao."
"Jing Xuehao!" Guang Li nudged him with his elbow and whispered. "What are you thinking about? Are you also dazed by all of this luxury? Damn, to think that someone is living in this castle-like mansion. It can only happen in my dream! Oh, did you see the two sports cars that were tied with golden roses outside the door? I heard that they are CEO Lu's gift for Young Master Ren and there's even more! I will not even be surprised if the President shows up in person later on." Guang Li clutched his chest and wheezed. "I really can't get used to rich people's lifestyle. I would have respected Young Master Ren if it hadn't been for his unspeakable relationship with CEO Lu. Ckckck, aren't they ashamed to act like this?"
Jing Xuehao sneered and patted his shoulder. "Wait for a while and find yourself a nice spot. A good show is coming soon."
"What do you mean—" He hadn't finished his words yet when gentle chimes of someone hitting their spoon on the wine glass sounded.
A man in his sixties stood in front, wearing a steadfast and elegant looking suit. "May I have your attention, please?" He smiled courteously. "Thank you very much. Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. Welcome to our humble house and I, Butler An Kequ, will be your host for tonight. If you need anything, please feel free to ask me for help."
"Tonight, we're here to celebrate the sixteenth birthday of our precious young master. Because this is a youngster's event, I hope that everyone will not be so formal. Feel free to have as much fun as you want." Everyone chuckled at his words and the solemn atmosphere loosened.
Guang Li tugged on Jing Xuehao's sleeves, excited. "Oh my God! It's starting! They even have a butler, so cool!"
Jing Xuehao clicked his tongue and subtly pulled away. Fortunately, Guang Li was too consumed by the sight in front of him to realize Jing Xuehao's displeasure.
"Now, let's not waste time any longer." Butler An gestured behind him at the double stairs that led to the large door at the second floor. "Let's welcome the star for tonight."
Cheers and applause sounded as the door gently swung open, revealing a slender teenager in a dark blue suit. He had his hair pushed backward, showing his clean and fair forehead. A pair of captivating, light colored eyes swept over everyone beneath. His strong presence immediately stole everyone's breath away, making them unable to take his eyes off him.
"Oh, so this is the Lu Group's next heir? He looks...quite promising."
"A great seed, indeed. CEO Lu is a lucky man. Here comes another heartbreaker in the Lu Family!"
Whispers of praise and approval spread through the guests. However, instead of making his way down, the sole target of everyone's attention turned sideways and offered his hand to someone beyond the wall.
This time, loud gasps and sharp inhalations were heard clearly. "Oh my God, is it…"
"It should be! CEO Lu ought to make an appearance himself!"
"Oh dear, I didn't come here for nothing! Just having a glimpse of CEO Lu is worth my entire night's time!"
The air turned heated and faint ruckus spread among the people. Not only those influential figures, but the celebrities, journalists, reporters and even Ren Zexi's classmates, all of them were anticipating Lu Yizhou's appearance! Camera lights flashed brilliantly as a hand stretched out to flick Ren Zexi's forehead, making the teenager giggle in amusement.
A long leg clad in black, polished shoe stepped out thereafter, followed by a towering figure dressed in a three piece suit and a face so stunning that it could make the Gods ashamed. His golden hair seemed to shine golden under the lights and his silvery eyes casted spells that could stun people.
The news had reported how Lu Yizhou didn't seem to age since a decade ago, but only now when they caught sight of him did they realize that they were speaking facts. At the age of 41, he stood side by side with Ren Zexi with a figure as attractive as ever. If so, being close to the young and vigorous Ren Zexi only highlighted his mature and intoxicating allure. He never bothered to put on those fake business smiles, yet people still flocked to him like moths drawn to the flame.
Ren Zexi scanned the people who were stunned by Lu Yizhou's visual, pride and a tinge of jealousy filled his chest. He deliberately hooked his arms around Lu Yizhou's and gave the man a cheeky grin. "It's my birthday so this little act is allowed, right?"
Lu Yizhou sighed helplessly, a thin smile formed on his face. "The birthday boy holds the command for today."
The two took their sweet time to descend the stairs, the flashlights following them along the way. Holy shit! Every snap looked like it had just come out straight from the photoshoot! Their next magazine's sales would definitely skyrocket!
The bodyguards agilely took control of the scene and prohibited people from getting close to the both of them, especially the journalists who stared at Lu Yizhou and Ren Zexi like they were two pieces of fragrant meat. Today's news was guaranteed to be spectacular! Inviting all of these big figures and the reporters, as well as the blatant demeanor of showing off… even without Lu Yizhou saying it explicitly, they understood that today was the day he officially appointed Ren Zexi as his successor!
"Oh my God, so this is how it feels to be classmates with a famous person…" Guang Li lamented. Not receiving any answer for a while, he turned to find Jing Xuehao staring fixedly in front, his whole person was dazed. "Hey, Jing Xuehao! Are you that surprised, huh?"
Jing Xuehao snapped out of his senses and tore his eyes away from Lu Yizhou, the thumping of his heartbeat could drown all the noises around. "W—What did you just say?"
"Hmm?" Guang Li narrowed his eyes and scrutinized him closer. "Why is your face so red? Do you feel uncomfortable?"
"No." Jing Xuehao covered his mouth and stepped backward. His eyes couldn't help but drift to Lu Yizhou's stunning visage once again. Why...Why couldn't he take his eyes off the man? What the hell was wrong with him?! He withdrew his eyes in panic and coincidentally landed on the waiter who was circling around with a tray of drinks. "I—I just feel a bit hot! Please excuse me, I will go and search for a drink!"
"Hot?" Guang Li scratched his head, confused. "But this is already autumn. How can it be hot?"
.
.
The party advanced smoothly. A five tiers cake was pushed out from the kitchen. Ren Zexi cut a small piece and handed it over to Lu Yizhou with barely any hesitation. "My first piece is for Uncle Lu, obviously." He smiled as the man accepted it. "Thank you for always being with me, Uncle Lu. I won't forget all of your kindness."
Lu Yizhou took a bite and grimaced at the cloying sweetness in his mouth. He coughed softly and put the plate down. "What's with the formalities?"
Ren Zexi chuckled again and proceeded to cut the second piece then handed it to Butler An, making the rims of the latter's eyes reddened.
Amidst the boisterous atmosphere, 666's voice rang in Lu Yizhou's mind, excited. [Host! Host! She's here!]
At the same time, the silhouettes of two people were seen coming through the main door. An elderly man dressed in a traditional Chinese kimono stepped in, supported by a stunningly beautiful girl in flaming red cheongsam. She was exactly like Lu Yizhou imagined her to be. Jet black hair that reached the waist, fair skin, eyes as luminous and round as grapes, sweet smile and a delicate body with curves in right places…
The female lead of this world, Meng Yun, was finally here.