Chapter 50: An Encounter as Expected

After the media finished taking photos and dispersed, Ling Ziheng, as usual, signed autographs for the Feather Girls. The Feather Girls gathered orderly at the side, each as sweet and obedient as a little cotton jacket, neither noisy nor scrambling.

“Director Lin, we’re entrusting Ruoyu to your care,” the president of the Feather Girls blinked earnestly, her face full of sincere pleading.

Lin Zhiwei, idly playing with her short hair as she stood by, was thinking about changing its color in a few days—her face was so unremarkable, she needed some flair in her style. Hearing the president’s words, she immediately put on a professional, practiced smile.

Her voice was gentle, like spring rain nurturing the earth. “No problem, I’ll give it my all. With such beautiful and thoughtful little angels supporting Ruoyu, it can only get better. Take care on your way home, everyone; it’s hot today, don’t get heatstroke.”

Ling Ziheng’s hand trembled slightly as he signed, and he struggled to maintain his usual aloof demeanor.

“Director Lin is so warm-hearted!”

In an instant, the Feather Girls were utterly won over. This young man truly had a magical charm—just hearing his voice was enough to melt anyone. He spoke so well, so caring, so gentlemanly.

“Ruoyu really has an eye for talent, finding Director Lin.”

“We’ll always support you, Ruoyu.”

“Go, Ruoyu! No matter what decisions you make, you’re the Ruoyu we love.”

Ling Ziheng’s smile carried a gentle warmth as he responded to the fans, feeling a wave of emotion inside. He’d won over the Feather Girls so quickly—should he praise Lin Zhiwei’s skill in public relations, or her talent for flirting?

Watching her play the part of a man, not only was she enthusiastic, she was thriving. Facing the girls, she was the epitome of a gentle gentleman; where had she learned all this...

Lin Zhiwei seemed to see through Ling Ziheng’s thoughts, raising her eyebrows and muttering inwardly, “You people with your naturally icy faces just don’t know how to care for girls. You need to be attentive, to cherish them, okay!”

After the fans left, Lin Zhiwei smugly scrolled through the Feather Girls’ posts on social media, looking at the photos taken at the scene. Seeing herself dressed as a man, she nodded in satisfaction.

Not bad. From every angle, it met her expectations.

Ling Ziheng turned his head, his thin lips parting slightly. “Is it fun?”

The hint of amusement in his tone made Lin Zhiwei pause, then she immediately flattered him, “Of course, it’s not for fun—this is to help the boss make a victorious first strike.”

Ling Ziheng snorted coldly, his face icy.

***

In the front row, the driver and Pei Xi felt a sudden chill. Miss Weiwei, your answer was flawless, but somehow it missed the mark...

“Do you think we’ll run into...?” Lin Zhiwei’s eyes darted mischievously as she asked.

Ling Ziheng’s expression softened just a little. “Of course.”

Lin Zhiwei: “What a coincidence. Do you think he knows my identity?”

Ling Ziheng: “Naturally, he does.”

“Well, that’s as good as laying all the cards on the table.” Lin Zhiwei propped her head on her hand, bored.

As expected, although the restaurant had been cleared out early, there was still one guest, sitting calmly to the side with his arms crossed, waiting for them.

Chu Chuo was dressed casually today, yet remained dazzling—a deep blue leisure suit, his newly dyed ink-gray hair wild and bold. He idly fiddled with a tall wine glass, occasionally casting flirtatious glances at the passing waitresses. The young women blushed like peaches, quickly lowering their heads and hurrying by, but unable to resist sneaking peeks at him.

When Lin Zhiwei and Ling Ziheng approached, the atmosphere grew tense. Everyone whispered among themselves—what kind of divine day was this? Two male idols in one venue, one seductive, one aloof. It was a feast for the eyes, too bad they’d signed confidentiality agreements and couldn’t snap photos.

Still, they widened their eyes and perked their ears, determined not to miss this peak showdown.

Seeing them enter, Chu Chuo quickly stood and walked over. “Introduce us?” he said, motioning toward Lin Zhiwei.

Ling Ziheng replied expressionlessly, “Lin Zhi.”

Chu Chuo laughed softly, a glint of charm in his eyes and brows. “You’re quite the actor.”

Lin Zhiwei shot him a glare, keeping her professional smile, but retorted, “Not as good as you.”

The face she’d seen so much on social media—now suddenly right in front of her, still so nauseating. Lin Zhiwei could only force herself to maintain a polite expression.

She finished speaking and sat down, spreading out her napkin and snapping her fingers. “Let’s have the food.”

She turned back to Chu Chuo, “Will you join us?”

Chu Chuo lowered his head with a soft laugh—just as he expected, this bold girl sat down without a care.

Ling Ziheng followed suit, his face unreadable. If it came to acting, this girl had certainly had enough practice over the years.

***

Wine and starters were served together. Lin Zhiwei drank quietly, while Chu Chuo swirled his glass, his gaze never leaving her. His seductive phoenix eyes grew deeper and more mysterious in the dim restaurant.

The waitstaff exchanged curious glances. What kind of scene was this—two handsome men and an ordinary young fellow, with King Chu staring at the young man non-stop. The rumor was that King Chu was attracted to both men and women; could he be here to compete with King Ling for this person?

Yet, King Ling maintained his usual aloofness, showing no intention of rivalry. The rumors of their discord seemed false, and there must be deep connections between them.

“We should say something, or raise a glass, otherwise the waitstaff will start guessing wildly,” Lin Zhiwei said quickly, sniffing her wine. Exquisite stuff—fragrant but not cloying.

“Your boss isn’t at all surprised to see me here,” Chu Chuo squinted, smiling as he raised his glass.

Lin Zhiwei shook her head. “Because my boss is better than you.” She raised her brows, emphasizing her last words.

Chu Chuo nearly choked on his own drink...

Tsk, Lin Zhiwei couldn’t help but sneer inwardly, wishing she could roast him to death.

Chu Chuo recovered and spoke seductively, “Whether I’m better or not—you could try and see?”

“Oh, not interested. I prefer my boss—good looks, good build, and most importantly, those abs,” Lin Zhiwei taunted.

If it’s about flirtatious talk, don’t compete with me—I’ve watched more dramas than you’ve acted in.

Ling Ziheng, calm-faced at the side, couldn’t help but feel a jolt inside, his lips twitching. Thanks, darling, for the praise.

“Oh? So you two are actually...” Chu Chuo’s gaze lingered ambiguously between them.

“Fiancée,” Ling Ziheng, who hadn’t spoken till now, uttered three words.

Lin Zhiwei nodded immediately, gazing at her boss with an affectionate look.