That woman

Fresh sunlight fell upon Ye Shenghan. Through a haze of smoke, Bai Yuchen watched the figure standing by the window, listening to the man’s violent coughing fits. He raised his eyes, crushed out his cigarette, and said, "Just tell them your cough hasn't fully cleared up. No matter how busy you are, you need to go to the hospital for an IV drip. If you keep dragging it out like this, I’m getting tired of listening to you hack away."

He and Ye Linglan were truly a pair; she didn't want him to worry, and he didn't want her to worry, so they kept things hidden from each other. This wasn't the first or second time Ye Shenghan had suffered from this chronic ailment, always pushing through it, and Bai Yuchen simply couldn't stand to watch it anymore.

Ye Shenghan turned to look at him, offered a faint smile, and remained silent.

***

Ever since Leng Tingyu took up her position at "Tiancheng," the private rumors surrounding her had grown increasingly intense. Linglan had heard various versions: she was of noble blood, possessed beauty that could topple kingdoms, and her decisive, iron-fisted style since taking office only further highlighted her image as an "iron rose."

There were also rumors that whoever married the third daughter of the Leng family would receive 30 percent of the Leng family's equity as a dowry from the Gambling King himself. It was common knowledge how much the Gambling King doted on his youngest daughter, which made many eligible bachelors eager to try their luck.

Others speculated that the only gentleman in all of Nanjiang worthy of the Leng family's third daughter was the rising financial magnate Mo Zhicheng. As the rumors spiraled and the media dug for answers, the various speculations made the nature of their relationship seem incredibly elusive.

Linglan caught glimpses of these rumors here and there. She watched from a distance as Leng Tingyu gave instructions to Lin Jia. Linglan stood stunned; unlike the first time she had met her, the playful, cute sportswear was gone. Leng Tingyu was now dressed in a khaki suit—a trendy, modern take on traditional workwear, a classic Prada piece that seemed to glow when worn by her.

Linglan watched her, feeling a complex mix of emotions. Leng Tingyu walked with light, graceful steps across the corridor. As she passed by Linglan’s desk, she offered a polite smile. Only then did Linglan realize she had been staring. Her colleagues nearby cast inquisitive glances, their expressions suggesting they were waiting for a show.

Seeing that faint, courteous smile on Leng Tingyu’s lips, one couldn't help but feel that she was truly flawless in her conduct—a testament to her upbringing in a distinguished noble family.

In the late afternoon, Linglan received a call from Mo Zhicheng and set off with the driver, Mr. Chen, to a formal wear boutique. Linglan looked at her reflection in the mirror, her face lightly dusted with makeup, her fair skin glowing with a hint of rose. With her naturally good complexion, just a little grooming made her look exquisite and delicate.

By the time she was ready, Mo Zhicheng had appeared, leaning against the sofa with his hands elegantly clasped, watching her quietly. Linglan caught his reflection in the mirror as the man stood up and approached her with a measured pace. He stopped beside her, his gaze filled with a touch of admiration. Mo Zhicheng brushed his fingers over the slight curl at the ends of her hair and whispered, "You look beautiful."

Linglan had already guessed where he was taking her. He had mentioned Secretary Qin’s invitation previously, and tonight was likely the night for that appointment. Mo Zhicheng was also dressed in formal attire.

Throughout the journey, Linglan gazed at the night scenery outside the window. The atmosphere between her and Mo Zhicheng in recent days had been different from before. She pulled her gaze away and glanced at him. He looked back at her, the corners of his lips curling into a shallow smile.

Linglan’s thoughts drifted, and she asked softly, "For an occasion like this, it would be more appropriate to bring President Leng." Her tone was indifferent, but it could not mask the disappointment in her eyes. "A lady of high society would be more familiar with the etiquette and would be able to navigate the social scene with ease for you."