After the press conference, Jiang Jian stepped out into the humid evening air, scanning the crowded streets for a taxi. Ling Wei, still clutching her notes, struggled to hail a ride.
"Need a lift?" Jiang Jian asked, approaching her.
Ling Wei turned, startled. "Oh, Mr. Jiang, I didn't expect—"
"Please, call me Jian," he interrupted, smiling. "My car's nearby. I'll drive you home."
Ling Wei's eyes widened as Jian led her to a sleek, limited-edition Aston Martin DBS Superleggera.
"Beautiful car," she breathed.
Jian chuckled. "One of my few indulgences."
As they glided through the city, Ling Wei felt at ease, discussing everything from business to music. Jian's warm demeanor surprised her.
At her apartment complex, Jian turned off the engine. "Thank you for today, Ling Wei. You're exceptional at your job."
Ling Wei smiled, gathering her belongings. "Thank you, Jian. It's been a pleasure."
With a nod, Jian bid her goodbye and watched her disappear into the building.
Next, Jian headed to the exclusive nightclub, Eclipse, where his friends, Gu Xun and Han Yufan, awaited.
As he entered, the pulsating music and strobing lights enveloped him. Gu Xun and Han Yufan greeted him with playful jabs.
"Welcome back, Jian! China's finest export returns," Gu Xun teased.
Han Yufan chimed in, "We thought you'd abandoned us for the Western world."
Jian's expression remained cold, his eyes glinting in the dim light.
Gu Xun's tone turned serious. "Jian, when will you go see your mother? Aunty has been urging me to ask you to come back. It's been six years."
Jian's smirk sent a shiver down Han Yufan's spine.
"I'll leave you guys to it. I'll see you another day." With that, Jian strode out, disappearing into the night.
Gu Xun exchanged a concerned glance with Han Yufan.
"What's eating at him?" Han Yufan wondered.
Gu Xun shook his head. "Only Jian knows."