As they enjoyed dinner, the lively atmosphere was suddenly disrupted by the arrival of a man whose presence exuded authority. The surrounding diners instinctively lowered their voices, sensing the shift in energy.
Lu Jianhong, a powerful figure in the entertainment industry, strode towards their table. With deep family connections and the ability to make or break careers with a single word, he was not someone to be taken lightly.
Tang Yuxi remained composed, but a subtle flicker of tension crossed her eyes. She knew why he was here. Her company had arranged a meeting with him, but instead, she had chosen to dine with Zhao Yifen and his friends.
Yifen smirked internally. I was just wondering how to spend money and earn more Hearts, and here comes an opportunity I can smell from miles away.
Lu Jianhong's gaze settled on Tang Yuxi, polite yet sharp. "Miss Tang, you didn't attend our scheduled meeting. I assume you have a good reason?"
Yifen raised an eyebrow. No greeting? Not even a simple 'hi'? I put on such a grand show just minutes ago.
Tang Yuxi set her chopsticks down calmly. "I was busy."
Lu Jianhong chuckled, but his tone carried an unmistakable warning. "Your company is displeased. You know what that means, right? If you don't come with me now, your future in this industry might be uncertain."
Lin Xixi and Xu Qingya exchanged glances, sensing the pressure Tang Yuxi was under.
Yifen's system notification suddenly popped up.
[System Notification: Hearts +5,000]
[New Version Update Installed]
System: Host, can you shut up? Why are you acting so immature?
Yifen: Because I want that title and frame for my business.
The tension at the table thickened. Yifen, who had been leisurely eating, finally spoke, his voice calm yet firm. "Opportunities? Are you implying that without you, she has no future?"
Lu Jianhong turned his gaze to Yifen, only now acknowledging him. "And you are?"
Yifen took a slow sip of his drink, his expression unbothered. "Just someone who dislikes threats."
Tang Yuxi glanced at him, noting the confidence in his casual tone. He wasn't just speaking-he was making a statement.
Yifen leaned back, tapping his fingers against the table. "I'm Zhao Yifen, owner of Zhao Capital Investment." He smiled. "Recently acquired this stadium and a few other businesses. Nothing major."
Lu Jianhong's expression stiffened. His secretary had mentioned Zhao Capital earlier today. A company that had spent over 2 billion yuan in just two days-an emerging powerhouse shaking up multiple industries.
Yifen's voice remained relaxed. "So, if you think blacklisting Tang Yuxi will hurt her, go ahead. Let's see how that plays out."
[Tang Yuxi's Love +2]
She turned to Yifen in surprise. Was he really saying he didn't care if she was blacklisted?
Lu Jianhong narrowed his eyes. "Are you saying you can protect her career?"
Yifen smirked. "Protect? No need. If the industry doesn't want her, I'll just create a new one."
[Tang Yuxi's Love +5%]
[Current Love: 17%]
He turned toward Lin Xixi and Xu Qingya. "Actually, I was just thinking about opening a media house. Buying a few entertainment companies, setting up a film and music production studio... How much would that cost?"
Lin Xixi's eyes widened. "A top-tier media house? Easily tens of billions if you want real influence."
Yifen nodded thoughtfully. "Not bad. A little pricey, but reasonable. I'll consider it."
Lu Jianhong's expression darkened. This wasn't arrogance-this was power. If Yifen was serious, he wasn't someone that could be pressured.
Yifen raised his glass, amusement flickering in his eyes. "Still planning to blacklist her? Or would you rather work under me in a few months?"
Lu Jianhong's tense expression suddenly shifted into a smirk. He lifted his own glass and took a slow sip before placing it down.
"I respect strength," he said, locking eyes with Yifen. "Let's play and see who wins."
Yifen chuckled, leaning back. "Good. I like challenges. Let's see if you can keep up."
Tang Yuxi and the others watched the exchange, sensing the shift in power dynamics. This was no longer a simple dinner-it was the beginning of a silent war.
Tang Yuxi turned to Yifen, her eyes filled with a mix of surprise and gratitude. Taking a deep breath, she spoke sincerely. "Thank you, Yifen. I didn't expect anyone to stand up for me like this."
Yifen shrugged, a slight smirk playing on his lips. "No need to thank me. I just don't like people being forced into things they don't want."
Tang Yuxi smiled, her gaze lingering on him. She felt an unexpected sense of reassurance. Perhaps, meeting Zhao Yifen tonight had changed more than just her career.
[Current Love: 18%]