The room seemed to hold its breath as Elena's words hung in the air. The buoyant anticipation that had filled the space only moments ago now gave way to a stunned silence.
Yuchen's face, once illuminated with excitement, underwent a swift transformation. His eyes widened, mouth slightly ajar, a portrait of disbelief as he stared at Elena. The unexpected turn of events left him momentarily speechless, his thoughts a whirlwind of confusion.
Likewise, Fei Fei, typically the embodiment of professionalism, couldn't hide her astonishment either. She shook off her initial shock, her brow furrowing as she tried to grapple with the sudden twist in Elena's decision.
"Wh-What? Why?" Fei Fei's voice, laced with incredulity, cut through the quiet room. "You don't have any other commitments that night. You could easily attend," she continued, her perplexity evident.
As Elena's secretary, she naturally knew her friend's schedule very well because she managed it. But, Elena doesn't want to attend the event?
Elena didn't answer right away and turned around when she heard Fei Fei's question. As Elena turned to face Fei Fei, she recognized the mix of bewilderment and curiosity in her secretary's eyes.
It wasn't surprising; Elena knew her abrupt decision contradicted her usual stance on events like these. That's precisely why she chose to lock eyes with Fei Fei. The trembling that had seized her earlier had subsided, allowing her to regain her composure.
"I simply don't feel like attending. These events tend to drag on all night, and I'd rather not be stuck in that scenario," Elena explained, choosing her words carefully to rationalize her decision.
Of course, this wasn't the actual reason – there was someone she wished to avoid encountering, someone whose presence would unravel her composure.
Had it not been for Yuchen's presence, Fei Fei would have likely rolled her eyes in exasperation.
Since when had Elena expressed an aversion to parties? This excuse seemed implausible to the secretary who knew Elena's penchant for mingling at high-profile events.
"But this is set to be one of the grandest parties of the year! It's not just attracting renowned business figures; they've even extended invitations to celebrated artists and idols. There's talk of television coverage and a red-carpet affair," Fei Fei explained, conveying the extravagant nature of the Li Group's planned celebration for Elder Liu's birthday and their company's anniversary.
"If your aim is public attention, this event is the ideal platform," Fei Fei added, her tone taking on a persuasive edge. She was clearly attempting to sway Elena's stance. While Fei Fei would have certainly understood if Elena had a conflicting engagement, she knew full well that Elena's schedule was free that night.
"I won't be attending," Elena firmly reiterated, her decision unwavering. She continued, issuing instructions to Fei Fei, "Ensure that you send valuable gifts. One for Elder Liu and another for his wife. And don't forget to convey my apologies for my absence."
Even though it was Elder Liu's birthday, but she also didn't forget to give the man's wife a gift. That would make the old woman feel good.
"But…"
Fei Fei let out an exasperated sigh, clearly perturbed by Elena's resolute stance. However, when she met Elena's determined gaze, she understood there was no room for negotiation.
"Elder Liu is friends with your grandfather, as you know. Your grandfather even confirmed your availability for the event when the invitation was extended," Fei Fei reminded Elena, her voice tinged with a touch of caution.
Elena's facial expression changed slightly when she was reminded of her grandfather. She had forgotten that her grandfather had a close relationship with Elder Liu. Despite their business rivalry. They were both friends and adversaries, a complex dynamic that Elena was well aware of.
"I can handle my grandfather. Just carry out my instructions," Elena asserted, her tone suggesting a steadfast determination.
Even though her grandfather would definitely nag her all over, this wasn't the first time. So, she was used to it.
Fei Fei's sigh spoke volumes of her understanding of Elena's resolve.
"Understood," she acknowledged, yielding to Elena's wishes.
Fei Fei shifted her focus back to her tablet, scanning for an event that would suit Elena and Yuchen's to attend as a couple.
"In 12 days, the premiere of the movie you sponsored will take place. While not as extravagant as the Li Group's event, it will draw significant media attention, complete with a red carpet," Fei Fei informed Elena about the upcoming occasion.
"Ah, that movie! What's the title again?" asked Elena who vaguely remembered the movie she had sponsored.
"Cohabitation With My Ex-Husband," Fei Fei confirmed succinctly
Elena nodded her head when she heard that. Last year a film proposal came in asking for a sponsor, and after reading a short synopsis and the cast, Elena decided to become a sponsor.
The story is quite refreshing from stories in general and Elena's instincts feel sure that it will be a big success.
"Alright, I'll attend," Elena decided promptly, her intuition reaffirming her support for the movie's potential.
"You have heard that in 12 days we will be attending an event together, right? Ensure your schedule is clear," she instructed, her gaze steady looking at Yuchen who was still sitting on the sofa and had not said anything since earlier.
Yuchen nodded, his expression unreadable. He had considered trying to convince Elena to attend the Li Group's party, but her stance seemed resolute.
After all, after what he did earlier. He wasn't sure Elena would want to listen to him.
"Until then," Elena concluded crisply before retreating to her desk, engrossing herself in her work.
Though her demeanor appeared composed, her previous unease lingered. Elena really didn't want to linger around Yuchen, let alone be alone with him.
"President Nam!" Fei Fei interjected abruptly just as Elena was about to take her seat, and Yuchen was on the verge of exiting the room. The unexpected tone in her voice drew their attention, leaving them puzzled.
Fei Fei approached Elena and whispered something into her ear, causing Elena's initial confusion to transform into widened eyes of disbelief.
"What?!" Elena exclaimed, her disbelief echoing through the room.
A confirming nod from Fei Fei solidified the accuracy of the information.
Gossip about her and Yuchen was circulating amongst the office employees? The realization left Elena taken aback.
"They're speculating whether you're in a relationship or if it's purely business," Fei Fei informed, confessing her membership in a gossip circle exclusively comprised of employees.
Even though in the office she looks professional and dignified as Elena's secretary, lately Fei Fei is quite easy going and likes to mingle with other employees.
Suggestively, Fei Fei leaned in to whisper an idea. "Why not have lunch with him at the company canteen? That would clarify the situation and confirm that you two are indeed dating," she proposed, her excitement palpable.
So far, Fei Fei didn't see anything wrong with Yuchen. The man looks kind, handsome, and and acceptable educational background marked him as a suitable candidate in her eyes Even though his wealth was not comparable to Elena's, it didn't matter at all because Fei Fei knew that Elena never had a problem with a man's wealth because that woman was already very rich.
So, even though Elena said that this was just a contractual relationship, Fei Fei was determined to lend support, aligning her actions with the drama-filled scenarios from the shows she often indulged in.
Elena fell into contemplative silence, mulling over the suggestion
"Okay," she eventually responded, her tone measured.
Yuchen, meanwhile, stood in confusion, uncertain of his role in this unfolding conversation.
Elena's tone shifted abruptly. "You haven't had lunch, have you? Let's grab a meal together," she stated in a detached manner, her plan-driven demeanor offering no hint of the anger that had surged within her earlier.
To be honest, she was really angry and annoyed by what Yuchen did just now, but this was all for the sake of her plan so that their relationship would not be called into question.
Elena also believed, if she behaved like this, Yuchen wouldn't have any suspicions about what had happened to her and her secret would remain safe.