Chapter Twenty-Seven: The Charity Gala (1)

“Have Hu Ya come to my office,” Shangguan Renran instructed Ye Xin.

“Yes, Miss.”

When Hu Ya entered, Shangguan Renran was reviewing the upcoming report.

The next season’s launch from Qingran Studio included new clothing brands, bag accessories, and jewelry designs.

“Minister, is there an issue?” Hu Ya asked.

“I want you to sign Zhen Mi as soon as possible. I don’t want any mistakes with this matter, and I require you to handle it discreetly.”

“Yes, she hasn’t had any scenes lately, so I’ll contact her soon.” She knew the number of Zhen Mi’s agent.

“Good. Ye Xin, keep an eye on Shangguan Miaomiao’s movements for me. I want to know her every action. Ye Zuo, I need you to secure patents for our brand as quickly as possible; ideally before the next launch.”

“Yes.”

“Yes, Miss.”

—

“Miss Bai, hello, I’m Shangguan Miaomiao, Director of Shangguan Group.”

“Miss Shangguan, hello. Are you here to discuss a spokesperson role?”

“Miss Bai, you’re a clever woman. After losing face at Guangmao Mall, it’s only right to regain it.” She, too, had seen the video from back then.

“Miss Shangguan, are you saying…”

“To be frank, the person in the video is now my superior. She wants to recommend Zhen Mi as the next spokesperson, but I believe you fit the brand’s image better. What do you think, Miss Bai?”

“But how could I possibly take the spokesperson role from Zhen Mi? She’s a star whose fame shines everywhere.”

“There’s no need for you to snatch it, Miss Bai. Our brand only requires a spokesperson with style, influence, and no rumors attached.”

So, she was to act against Zhen Mi?

“We have about a month before the next spokesperson is chosen. If you can outshine Zhen Mi, I’ll guarantee the role is yours,” Shangguan Miaomiao smiled, extending her arm.

“I look forward to working together next season.”

“So do I.” Bai Xi shook her hand, both women’s eyes filled with determination—for they were of the same kind.

…

Three days later, the Ouyang family’s corporation hosted a charity gala.

The Ouyang family was among the elite in City A; attending this gala required not only wealth, but power and status.

Shangguan Renran wore a pale lavender gown, with an off-shoulder design revealing elegant collarbones and rounded shoulders. The hem was slit slightly, exposing long, slender legs as she walked. She carried a glass adorned with ‘Blue Heart,’ a jewel designed by her mother.

It was crafted from blue diamonds, each tiny stone set meticulously, small hearts strung together to form a large one—simple yet luxurious, understated yet dazzling.

Her shoulders were sculpted, her waist slender, graceful in posture, her gaze lively and captivating. Her flaxen hair, styled by her designer, was pinned up with a pink-and-white clip, soft tendrils framing her face. Her makeup was exquisite, lips crimson and luscious.

The moment she entered, all eyes were drawn to her.

Following behind were Ye Xin and Ye Zuo.

Ye Xin wore a silvery-white evening gown, her black hair braided, a touch of powder lending her beauty, serene as the autumn moon, gentle and graceful. She carried a clutch, her steps light.

Ye Zuo donned a black suit, a blue bowtie, gold-rimmed glasses, reserved yet refined, a gentle smile flickering across his lips.

The three headed straight to their seats. The hall was arranged so each person had a designated spot. Since this was hosted by the Muya family’s company, adding two more seats was effortless for her.

Their seats were in the front row: Ye Zuo, Ye Xin, and Shangguan Renran.

Though they represented the company, they did not sit with Shangguan Miaomiao.

Shangguan Miaomiao arrived with Bai Xi, accompanied by the eldest daughter of the Huangpu family, Huangpu Qingyin, and the second son, Huangpu Qing’an.

Shangguan Miaomiao had changed into a red strap dress, her makeup striking, long hair loose, exuding an alluring charm.

Bai Xi wore a pure white gown, delicate as a willow, poised and graceful.

Around her neck was a blue jewel—gifted by Qingyin last time, the famed creation of Designer Ye Da.

Her hair was styled in soft curls, her makeup light, evoking a desire to protect her.

Huangpu Qingyin wore a golden evening dress, shimmering as she walked. Her chestnut curls were pinned with a pearl clip. She was lively and beautiful, though her expression was tinged with pride.

Huangpu Qing’an wore a white tailcoat, his looks merely delicate, yet he insisted on a self-important, refined air.

Their seats were also in the front row, but separated from Shangguan Renran’s group by an aisle.

Huangpu Qing’an sat closest to the aisle, followed by Huangpu Qingyin, Bai Xi, and Shangguan Miaomiao in order.

This charity gala also served as an auction. Items were donated by attendees, and the proceeds went to the Ouyang family’s charity foundation.

You could bid on your own items or those of others; the highest bidder won.

Ouyang Muya entered with Xia Wanqing, but Xia Wanqing arrived with Zhen Mi, so the three came in together.

Ouyang Muya wore a black evening gown, cinched at the waist, with an asymmetrical hem. Paired with black heels, she was graceful and dignified.

Xia Wanqing wore a red strapless gown, its length reaching her ankles, her figure tall and striking, elegant and radiant.

Zhen Mi wore a deep blue dress, her slender neck adorned with a white pearl necklace, an oval face, tasteful makeup, graceful and poised.

They were seated behind Shangguan Renran. As soon as Xia Wanqing sat, she happily greeted Shangguan Renran.

Shangguan Renran likewise greeted the three. Zhen Mi had signed a contract with their company just two days prior.

She suspected Shangguan Miaomiao would make her move at this charity gala. With so many eyes watching, any mishap would be hard to trace.