Whenever Su Lan spoke her mind, she was simply seen as "outspoken." But if Su Xi so much as retorted, she was labeled "insensitive" or "cold-hearted."
Her own father never defended her, living his life free of responsibilities, entangled with models and actresses, squandering his days as if he were not the only son of the Su family's first branch.
Now everyone thinks that Su Lan is the granddaughter of the eldest family branch. But the truth is that her own biological grandfather was the eldest son, not the nominal grandfather, Su Chiyu.
If not for her father being so incompetent and not protecting her rights, she would never have taken a step to betray the family interests.
Even that distant relative of Han family, which has little to no relationship with Su family can be treated as treasure every time she visits, but her own self respect is stomped under everyone's feet.
Now that she is considered unimportant and discarding in everyone's eyes they can't blame her for the mishaps that will happen in the future.
Su Lan ignored Su Xi's malice filled eyes and checked time on her mobile. It was almost time for opening speech yet Lilian has yet to enter the hall. When she called, they were already at front gateway. so she stood up intending to go out and see what was taking them long.
She just turned around when she saw Lilian entering the banquet hall.
Dressed in an off-shoulder, smoky tulle gown that hugged her figure, she commanded the hall. The long hem of the dress brushed the floor, parting at every step to reveal smooth, straight legs.
Her wavy hair cascaded down her back, effortlessly elegant. Dark red lipstick adorned her lips, while her light smoky eye makeup enhanced the sharpness of her gaze. Around her neck, a crimson sapphire necklace shimmered, perfectly complementing her allure.
Yet, what caught everyone's attention were the two koi fish tattoos, barely visible beneath her clavicles. One red, one pink—etched onto her fair skin like artwork.
An enchantress.
Her presence alone shifted the atmosphere. Murmurs rippled through the hall, whispers filled with curiosity, admiration, and veiled jealousy.
But Han Li?
She didn't spare a glance at any of them.
With an air of indifference, she strode forward—straight towards the center of the banquet hall.
And behind her, another man entered.
Li Yushen.
Clad in a midnight-blue tailored suit, his refined features drew the attention of many. Yet, unlike Han Li, his presence was quieter, his aura sharp but contained.
As expected, the moment he stepped inside, eyes turned toward him. Many wished to approach, eager to establish connections, as he was the public face of IG Group.
But Li Yushen?
He simply veered towards the side corner of the hall, avoiding unnecessary attention.
When Su Lan saw Han Li looking so stunning, red hearts appeared in her eyes and she almost stripped. Not to mention boys, even she as a girl, was smitten by her beauty. Her best friend was truly an immortal blessed by heavens to this mortal world.
She barely stopped herself from clutching her chest dramatically, instead took a deep breath and composed herself. But as Han Li walked closer, the natural sway of her hips and the effortless confidence in her stride made her resolve waver again. Composing herself Su Lan walked towards Han Li.
"Amoureuse"*
With a bright smile, she formally hugged Han Li and teased with hushed voice: "You almost stole my heart, no wonder men are so mesmerized by you."
Han Li showed bright smile making her dimples appear. "You look stunning as well."
Hearing her praise, Su Lan giggled elegantly, the soft silver fabric of her dress shimmering under the golden chandeliers. With a playful wink, she boasted, "I designed it myself. What do you think?"
"I must say you improved a lot, it seems opening of your brand is just around the corner." It was not just a compliment, she truly thought so.
"Yes! And you know how excited I am! I just signed contract with clothing company last month. If nothing goes wrong, by the start of next year, every socialite and celebrity will be wearing White Rose." exclaimed Su Lan. She has been working on opening her own brand (White Rose) for whole three years. Now that her dream is coming true, it's obvious she was elated.
She would not have to work hard if she hadn't promised her brother to do everything herself and not to use his name. She wanted to horn her business skills and experience hardships, so in the future she could deal with such matters easily and not always needing her brother's help.
"I wish you the best of luck. If you need anything, just contact me" replied Han Li.
"Oh come on! I haven't thanked you yet for the successful collaboration with clothing company. If it wasn't for you, I don't know just how much it would have taken to please their boss" said Su Lan as she cross linked her arms with Han Li's and moved toward the main table.
"If it wasn't for your own hard work and professionalism, they would not have collaborated with you. I just introduced them to you, you convinced them yourself." said Han Li
Hearing that Su Lan just smiled, how can a complete, elaborated and detailed background check be considered as just an introduction.
And she can guarantee Han Li also had Li Yushen call the clothing company, otherwise how could they easily accept so many conditions without any complaints and provide topnotch fabric to a new and emerging brand.
IG group influence has long exceeded everyone's expectations. One word and it can change the wind in City A. So one word from IG CEO can be provided as a powerful background which makes other fearful of offending.
Even though she wanted to do everything on her own without support, she is also aware of the competition in fashion design market. New companies are easily swallowed so it is better to have support, Moreover she will not get a single help from Han Li in future. Her single call is enough to make troubles stand away for 2-3 years.
After that, she would be able to stand the pressure alone and would have her own connections. She always loved to design and stayed away from family business now that she has to get involved, it sometime makes her nervous. She wondered just how much pressure is Han Li under.
To be able to take whole corporation under her leadership, her friend must truly be an immortal. Su Lan looked at Han Li and sighed, it's been a long time since she last saw her genuine laugh. As she thought, they stopped at main table.
NOTE:
*Amoureuse= Sweetheart