In Chen's exclusive social circle, Zoe was a newcomer, unacquainted with anyone here. Chen wasn't her manager or close acquaintance, so she wasn't going to personally introduce Zoe to every guest. Zoe had already heard from Lan about the prestige of this private gathering. It was a place frequented by fashion industry icons, not to mention the rising stars aiming to break into the fashion world. She hadn't expected, however, that she'd secure an offer to walk in a popular brand's show from a new designer she'd just met. The exposure would be a major boost for her image and reputation.
It was no wonder so many small-time celebrities would pay just to get their hands on an invite to this gathering. And the people here weren't just from entertainment or fashion—Zoe met investors, corporate executives, lawyers, and more. This place was a small society in itself, brimming with elites from all walks of life.
As Zoe refilled her cocktail and turned around, she accidentally bumped into someone. "Oh, I'm sorry!" She stepped back immediately.
"It's fine." The man, who looked to be in his early thirties, was dressed in a sharp suit. Though youthful in appearance, his demeanor exuded a seasoned confidence. Holding his own drink, he caught her gaze and smiled.
A charming smile, as people often say. Zoe felt a brief flutter before snapping back to her senses. "I didn't spill on you, did I?"
"No, I'm good. How about you?" he asked.
Zoe smiled. "I'm fine."
"You're beautiful. May I get to know you?" he asked directly. "My name is Fu Chen. And yours?"
"Zoe."
"Sounds familiar." Fu Chen smiled. "I'll be honest, I was drawn to you the moment I saw you."
A little taken aback by his straightforwardness, Zoe replied with a touch of humor, "Should I say thank you?"
Fu Chen merely gestured toward a quieter corner. "Shall we go somewhere quieter to chat?"
Zoe hesitated. "Mr. Chen, I'm in a rather delicate profession. If we were to go somewhere quiet, you might end up on the news tomorrow."
"Ah, so you're that Zoe." Fu Chen's face registered sudden recognition. Instead of seeming put off, his amusement only deepened. He had a calm, easygoing manner that usually came with age, but he looked no older than his early thirties. How did he have such a composed presence?
"Relax, this is a private gathering. No paparazzi would dare to sneak in here," Fu Chen said, glancing around the room. "Of course, I can't vouch for everyone else here. They might not take photos, but any woman seen with me is bound to get caught up in rumors."
Zoe chuckled, politely declining. "Then I'll keep my distance."
Fu Chen looked momentarily surprised as Zoe signaled that the conversation was over and turned to leave.
"Miss Zoe, it seems I misread you."
"Oh?" She glanced back, curious.
"I thought you wouldn't care about rumors. If what I said earlier made you uncomfortable, I apologize."
Zoe gave a slightly awkward smile, like a rabbit who'd wandered into someone else's den. "Don't worry, Mr. Chen. I just think gossip wouldn't do either of us any good."
"Are you free tomorrow?" Fu Chen suddenly asked.
"Hmm?"
"If you're free, I'd like to show you my farm. It's out in the countryside, no paparazzi, no one around to worry about gossip," he offered.
Zoe smiled apologetically. "Sorry, Mr. Chen, but I have work tomorrow. I'll be in Hainan for a show."
About ten minutes later, Xiaowen approached Zoe, whispering, "Do you know who that man was?"
"He said his name is Fu Chen. That's all I know. Why?" Zoe asked, sensing Xiaowen's hesitation.
"I don't mean to gossip, but…" Xiaowen seemed reluctant, yet she continued, "I just thought I'd give you a heads-up. No one really knows his background, but he's incredibly wealthy. People say he switches women like he changes clothes. And I've heard he treats them poorly. I just wanted to warn you."
Zoe realized Xiaowen had misinterpreted the interaction. "Thank you," she replied. "I'll be careful."
Honestly, Zoe had already developed a bit of a distaste for Fu Chen. The fleeting attraction she'd felt was quickly overshadowed by his overconfidence. Though he was courteous, there was an undertone of arrogance in his approach.
As the evening wore on, Zoe met a few others in the film industry, exchanging contacts with some of them. Around ten o'clock, as guests began to leave, Zoe decided it was time to say goodbye to Chen.
To her surprise, Fu Chen was still there, waiting by the door. "Miss Zoe," he greeted her with a smile.
Zoe raised her brows, smiling back. "Mr. Chen, don't tell me you've been waiting for me."
"Actually, I realized I forgot something," he said with a grin.
"What's that?"
"I didn't get your contact information." His smile remained warm and steady as he looked at her.