As Song Meiqi stepped inside the venue, she immediately noticed the crystal chandeliers illuminating the room with sunlit warmth, spilling over the marble floors and gilded walls.
People dressed in exquisite gowns and tailored suits filled the area, while the soft music of the orchestra hummed in the background.
Han Yichen guided her through the crowd, introducing her to a few of his business acquaintances.
"My niece," he said deliberately, making sure there was no room for misunderstanding.
After mingling for a while, the host gracefully stepped onto the stage, commanding the room's attention as he began his welcoming remarks.
"Welcome, everyone, to the 101st anniversary celebration of GL Holdings—"
His warm voice signaled the start of the evening, and the room quieted as guests took their seats, conversation fading to an expectant hush..
As the events unfolded, Song Meiqi felt a creeping drowsiness settle over her, boredom dulling her senses. Catching her drooping eyelids, Han Yichen cleared his throat sharply, jolting her awake.
Meiqi immediately straightened her back, trying to hide the fact that she had nearly nodded off, while Han Yichen sighed softly in defeat.
"For years, reporters were never allowed at their anniversary celebrations, but this time, they invited a few," Han Yichen murmured softly, just loud enough for her to hear.
Meiqi nodded slightly, though her interest barely stirred.
Yichen, noticing her reaction, neither frowned nor seemed bothered. He knew his niece was never interested in the world of high
society, so he simply continued.
"Apparently, the reporters are here to meet GL Holdings' heir." he said, his voice rising slightly with emphasis.
Song Meiqi shot him a knowing glance—now she finally understood the real reason her uncle had invited her.
"Don't tell me you want me to meet this mysterious heir?" she asked with a hint of curiosity.
Han Yichen shook his head gently.
"No… I want you to make connections, but at the same time, it wouldn't hurt to build a relationship with him," he said, his intentions quietly clear.
Song Meiqi let out a quiet sigh of defeat and turned her gaze away. She had never been interested in wealthy families—no, she deliberately avoided them. She had no intention of forming any kind of relationship with them, now or ever.
Suddenly, a man's voice echoed through the speakers, drawing her attention back to the stage.
Standing there was the current president of GL Holdings—a man who looked younger than his years, every gesture reflecting discipline and the unmistakable mark of a rigorous upbringing.
"My term has come to an end, and it is now time for the next generation to assume leadership. It is my honor to introduce the next President of GL Holdings—" His low voice carried undeniable authority.
Murmurs swept through the room like a rising tide as a young man stepped onto the stage, clad in a striking black tuxedo edged with bold red accents and wearing a sleek silver mask.
Each step he took commanded attention—calm, composed, and undeniably magnetic.
"For one year, he will train under my leadership to become a capable and proper leader," the President added.
"Hello. I'm Wang Zi Rui. It's an honor to accept this position. I will strive to lead with responsibility." His voice was low and raspy, like a cold winter wind—chilling and deliberate.
Song Meiqi gazed at him with quiet curiosity.
"So, that is the mysterious business genius—the heir to the most powerful and influential GL Holdings," she murmured under her breath.
Soon, a soft violin melody drifted through the room, wrapping it in a gentle, romantic air.
As partners took to the floor in a slow dance, Song Meiqi stood quietly in the corner, trying to avoid attracting unwanted attention—yet a few men still approached her.
"Young lady, I saw you the moment you walked in—you're exceptionally stunning," a man to her right said smoothly.
"Even with your face partially hidden, I can tell you're a true beauty," another added from her left.
"I don't know about these two, but you're the only one who's caught my attention tonight," said a third man standing between them.
Then, almost in unison, all three raised their hands and asked, "Would you dance with me?"
Song Meiqi furrowed her brows, a wave of discomfort washing over her.
"No, thank you," she replied, bowing slightly before attempting to slip away.
"Wait, young lady," all three spoke in unison again, their voices eerily rehearsed. The men exchanged glances, annoyance and frustration flickering across their faces.
Weaving through the narrow gaps between guests, Song Meiqi searched for a place where she could vanish from sight.
But just as she thought she was free, a sudden grip tightened on her arm.
She glanced to the side, her eyes tracing the hand gripping her arm, and a middle-aged, slightly stout man slowly came into view.
The man, a head shorter than her, was dressed in a tailored suit and wore no mask. His thinning hair and the beads of sweat on his face betrayed his unease.
His face twisted into a leering, lustful expression he made no effort to hide.
"Young Miss, I saw you turn down those young men's offers," he said, his voice rising with eager excitement.
"Surely… you'd want to dance with someone like me," he added, a sly grin curling his lips.
Song Meiqi's eyes wavered, a flicker of discomfort and disgust flashing across her gaze.