Chapter 211: We've Had Indirect and Direct Kisses
Zi Yi became the focus of attention the moment she stepped in. A waiter hastily went over. "Welcome, I wonder if you are alone or looking for a table for two?"
"Table for two."
Zi Yi glanced across the hall and realized that all the seats were basically for couples.
The waiter tacitly gestured for her to follow him. "Miss, please follow me."
Zi Yi followed the waiter and walked in. Voices of people walking in could be heard from behind.
The two people behind her were in a discussion and the woman said, "It's Elder Lu's seventieth birthday in half a month. What present has your family prepared for him?"
Man: "We haven't decided. My father mentioned that he would see how it goes. Elder Lu's present is not that easy to pick. We're just afraid he might chase us out if he's unhappy with the present. What about yours?"
Woman: "Same for mine. We are unable to decide on anything yet. My father said that if worse comes to worst, he would prepare the safest present such as teacups or chess pieces."
Man: "In fact, I think that Elder Lu definitely likes guns. He has been a soldier his whole life and perhaps he might still have lingering thoughts after retiring."
Woman: "Forget about that idea of yours. You dare to bring in a gun on Elder Lu's birthday? Aren't you simply seeking trouble?"
Man: "Forget it then. I'll let them worry over this problem. We can just tag along when the time comes."
Woman: "Hehe, there's definitely going to be tons of women dressed up beautifully on that day. Perhaps the Elder Lu might fancy one and pair them up with someone from the Lu Family. I wonder if Elder Lu would directly designate a fiancée for Second Brother this year."
The man maintained silence for a moment and spoke in a gloating manner. "This is highly likely."
Zi Yi was led into a room for two by the waiter and only managed to listen up to this point.
She casually played with her phone after sitting down and had an indifferent expression, until Lu Jingye gave her a call.
Zi Yi told him the room number and after a while, sounds of people gasping could be heard from the hall.
As expected, the waiter had led Lu Jingye to Zi Yi's room.
Lu Jingye sat opposite her and she said, "I haven't ordered."
The waiter passed out the menu in a timely manner.
Zi Yi did not receive the menu, and Lu Jingye took it instead. He quickly ordered a few dishes and said to the waiter, "Deliver the cake and the ice cream first."
"I understand."
After the waiter left, Zi Yi's eyes locked onto his handsome face for quite some time. She suddenly recalled having met his younger brother today and asked, "Lu Jingye, where did you go for your business trip?"
Lu Jingye knew she would not ask the question for no reason and so, he responded with a city.
Zi Yi nodded and asked, "Did your younger brother catch the person who threatened me?"
Lu Jingye stared at her and said with confidence, "You went to Phoenix Road today."
Zi Yi had neither admitted nor denied. "Make a guess."
Lu Jingye suddenly had the impulse to rub her head.
Just then, the waiter brought over the cake and ice cream Lu Jingye had specially ordered.
Zi Yi knew he had ordered this for her. She was not polite in the slightest and slowly savored the ice cream with a spoon.
After having two bites, she asked, "You want some?"
"No..."
Just as he opened his mouth, Zi Yi directly fed him a spoonful.
At the same time, she stood up, leaned over, and gave him a kiss. She did not immediately sit down and instead, threatened him in a low voice. "We've had indirect and direct kisses. You're not allowed to marry other women. Otherwise..."
Having said that, she used the spoon and slashed it in front of her neck fiercely.
Chapter 212: If You Want That Item, Exchange it With Yourself
Lu Jingye looked at the beautiful face in close proximity and thought that she must have heard someone saying he would be marrying another woman.
Just as he was about to speak, the waiter's footsteps were heard.
Zi Yi sat back down.
When the waiter served all the dishes, Zi Yi went over to sit next to Lu Jingye.
She watched him slice the steak gracefully and simply put down her cutlery and stared at his side profile.
Seeing that she remained unmoved, he pushed his steak to one side, pulled her plate over, and sliced it carefully.
Zi Yi was instantly elated.
"Lu Jingye."
"Yes?"
"Did you miss me?"
"..."
"Hehe, I know it even if you don't say it aloud."
Zi Yi picked up a piece of sliced steak and slowly chewed it. After swallowing, she said, "I have something that's very important to you with me here, and you should have more or less guessed what it is."
Lu Jingye finally tilted his head and looked in her direction.
Their gazes met each other's and soothing piano notes floated into their ears.
There seemed to be a sweet atmosphere in their surroundings.
Zi Yi smiled at him. Her smile was similar to that of a fox. "If you want that item, exchange it with yourself."
Lu Jingye's eyes darkened and stared at her for several seconds. Following that, he looked away and continued slicing the steak for her. After he was done, he pushed the plate over and responded with an "Okay".
Zi Yi's heartbeat inexplicably sped up.
Did she hear him wrongly? That old-fashioned man actually agreed?
Zi Yi could not believe what she had heard and raised her hand to touch his face.
When her fingers were about to touch his Adam's apple, Lu Jingye's voice that carried traces of helplessness and pampering sounded. "Eat."
He originally wanted to wait until she had turned 18 and use this period of time to let his family members accept her. However, the young lady was too anxious and he could only change his plans.
"Okay~"
Zi Yi was satisfied and began to eat her steak.
The two of them went out together after they finished the meal.
It was currently the peak hour. Even though it was a high-end western restaurant, there was no lack of rich individuals in the capital.
Everyone was shocked when they saw Zi Yi, the girl who had been famous in their circles in recent days, walking towards the cashier with the unattainable Second Young Master of the Lu family.
They could only look on helplessly as they walked out. After they left, they seemed to have been released from their shock and started a heated discussion.
"Oh gosh, Lu family's Second Young Master dined in the western restaurant together with the woman who seduced He family's Fourth Young Master and Ouyang family's Young Master!"
"This woman must have used some underhanded means. How could a noble person like the Second Young Master Lu dine in together with a woman like that?"
"Speaking of which, that woman is really beautiful."
"What use is there in having a beautiful appearance? A woman like her is unworthy of being with us from high-society!"
Among all of them, be it whether they were envious or jealous, after they had finished gossiping, they all did the same thing, which was to post on their friend's circle group.
Very soon, practically almost all the younger generation of high-society knew of this incident.
In the end, someone deliberately spread this information to Mrs. Lu.
At first, Mrs. Lu had sternly scolded the person who passed this information to her. Following that, when Lu Jingye returned home, she questioned him in a complicated mood. "Jingye, some people are saying that you went to dine at a western restaurant with a woman. Is that true?"
Lu Jingye looked at Mrs. Lu and guessed that his mother must've heard of Zi Yi's bad rumors. He said to her in all seriousness, "Mother, Yiyi, is not someone like that."
"You're already calling her so intimately?" Mrs. Lu was surprised. "Could it be that you've really fallen for her?"
Lu Jingye replied seriously, "Mother, she's still young. All the rumors outside about her are all evil intentions towards her."
It seemed like he should do some cleaning soon.
Mrs. Lu never imagined Lu Jingye would be so protective of the woman who had a bad reputation and had mixed feelings.
Even though she always wanted her son to find a girlfriend, someone with a bad personality just wouldn't do.
Mrs. Lu was a little worried. Her son was a reliable person so why did he fall for a woman with such a bad reputation?
In the end, she decided to meet with that woman in secret.
Chapter 213: Tested by Future Mother-In-Law
Zi Yi was surprised when she received a call from Song Lingluo.
Song Lingluo said in a gentle tone, "Little Zi, we mentioned having tea together the previous time. Are you available today? Why don't we have tea together?"
Zi Yi had guessed the reason for the invite and agreed to it.
The place Song Lingluo decided on was an antique tea house and there was also a troupe performance inside.
Zi Yi was directly led inside by Song Lingluo's bodyguards when she arrived.
Looking at Song Lingluo, whose attention was on the performance, Zi Yi called out, "Sister Song."
Song Lingluo heard Zi Yi's voice and she felt mixed emotions.
She could not believe that the young lady she fancied at first sight was someone shrouded in rumors.
In the end, she decided to test out the young lady. If her personality turned out to be as it was rumored, she could only take on the role of an evil person and separate Zi Yi from her son.
Song Lingluo readjusted her mindset, turned towards Zi Yi, and waved at her. "Little Zi, come and take a seat."
Zi Yi looked at Song Lingluo's expression and walked over.
The tea and desserts had already been ordered and so the bodyguards left and closed the door.
Song Lingluo was suddenly glad that Zi Yi did not know who she was. She decided not to reveal her identity for the time being and pretended to casually ask, "You don't seem like you're from the capital? Where are you from?"
"S City."
Song Lingluo nodded and changed the topic as she pointed at the performance downstairs. "Do you like watching Chinese Opera?"
Since she seemed to be unfamiliar with it, she most probably had no knowledge about Chinese Operas.
"I don't mind." Zi Yi lifted the teacup and took a sip before she started talking about the four greatest operas in the capital[1]. In the end, she added, "My favorite are national-themed operas which showcase the country and are also inspiring."
Song Lingluo was surprised. "I didn't expect Little Zi to be so knowledgeable on the four greatest operas in the capital."
"I wouldn't say that I'm knowledgeable. I only chanced upon the introduction of these operas in the past and felt interested, which led to looking up about them further and listening to the shows."
Song Lingluo felt that Zi Yi was being modest, but she did not comment on it.
After listening to the opera for some time, Song Lingluo spoke up. "Why don't we go shopping? I wish to get a few sets of jewelry and you can provide me with your opinions."
Zi Yi nodded and said, "Sure."
Thus, the two of them headed to the largest jewelry building.
Ordinary people were unable to afford the jewelry here and so, those who visited were all rich people.
Before they entered the building Song Lingluo suddenly wore sunglasses and said to her bodyguards, "Wait outside, I will head in with Little Zi."
"Yes, Mrs. Lu."
The bodyguards stopped and stood guard outside while Zi Yi and Song Lingluo entered together.
Zi Yi was not particularly interested in jewelry and had looked steadily forward as she tagged along with Song Lingluo throughout the entire journey.
They took the lift to the third floor. All the shops here were famous international jewelry brands.
Zi Yi asked, "Sister Song, do you have any shops you're interested in checking out?"
Song Lingluo was a little embarrassed. "I seldom go out to buy jewelry and I'm not familiar with these shops."
Zi Yi thought for a moment and said, "Then let's head over to Lu Jewelry."
"Why there?"
"They are also a famous international brand. Most importantly, all the new designs released every season are capable of driving the trends in the jewelry industry. Therefore, instead of purchasing from those who follow the trend, it's better to buy from the trendsetter."
Song Lingluo did not expect such an explanation from Zi Yi and had agreed with her opinion.
What's even more important was that it was her son's company.
And so, both of them entered Lu Jewelry.
Song Lingluo was a low-key person and Lu Group's employee did not know who she was.
After they entered the shop, they were warmly received by the staff.
Song Lingluo had an appearance where she was unable to make up her mind.
Zi Yi spoke up at that time. "If you trust my tastes, I'll help you pick a few sets."
"Sure!"
Zi Yi quickly pointed to a few sets. After the staff brought out the items, Zi Yi signaled to Song Lingluo. "Sister Song, try it on."
Song Lingluo nodded and started to try out the different pieces of jewelry.
Just then, three women entered the shop.
When they spotted Zi Yi, their expression instantly darkened.
[1] This is pure nonsense made up by the author.
Chapter 214: Deliberately Finding Fault
Zi Yi's name in high society's younger generation circle was too well-known during this period of time.
The three of them just so happened to be Qin Yuqiao and He Yaning's good friend. Thinking about their friends' tragic exposure, they hated Zi Yi to the core and wished that they could tear out her hair at the sight of her.
The trio subconsciously glanced at Zi Yi's surroundings.
The Lu Jewelry was rather busy at that period and the majority of the patrons were elders they knew.
Of course, they had also scanned across Mrs. Lu standing beside Zi Yi. However, as they rarely had the chance to meet her, they only felt her back profile was somewhat familiar and did not associate her with being Lu Jingye's mother.
As long as there was no one from the Dou Family present, they were at ease.
They then looked at each other as Zhang Peipei whispered, "We can teach her a lesson and get revenge for Qiaoqiao and Yaning."
Having said that, she intended to make her way towards Zi Yi.
Li Yuting hastily grabbed her and said, "Peipei, don't be impulsive. This woman is not an easy target and we better not confront her."
Chen Xiangyu agreed with Li Yuting. "Besides, there are so many acquaintances here and we shouldn't leave a bad impression of ourselves. Why don't we do this..."
Chen Xiangyu's voice became softer every passing second and in the end, she simply whispered her idea into their ears.
Upon hearing her idea, the expressions of her two friends brightened and they nodded in agreement.
"That's a good idea!"
"Ok, let's do this."
Song Lingluo saw the trio walking towards Zi Yi in the mirror's reflection. She originally intended to ask if the set she wore was nice or not, but decided to swallow her words. At the same time, she pointed at a set of jewelry far away and said to the staff, "That set seems nice, let me try it."
The staff immediately went over and Song Lingluo quietly walked away.
Zi Yi glanced at Song Lingluo who walked away and did not follow.
At the same time, the trio had arrived next to Zi Yi.
They first pretended to look at the jewelry in the display stand, before Zhang Peipei deliberately said in a surprised tone, "Oh? Isn't this Zi Yi?"
Zi Yi looked at them with an indifferent expression and did not intend to pay them any attention.
Zhang Peipei was not anxious in the slightest. She stood next to her and pointed at a piece of jewelry and said to the staff, "Take this out for me to try."
Following this, she said in a seemingly unintentional way, "It's Elder Lu's seventieth birthday soon and since we're here today, we should choose a few more pieces. At that time, we can wear them to Elder Lu's birthday banquet."
Chen Xiangyu added, "That's what I thought too. Elder Lu is Second Young Master Lu's grandfather, and perhaps he might take a fancy to me during the banquet and arrange a marriage between me and Lu Jingye. Hehe..."
Li Yuting hit Chen Xiangyu with her elbow and looked at Zi Yi's expression. "Xiangyu, you shouldn't talk about this here. Otherwise, some sl*ts with a low status will feel upset and cry in front of Second Young Master Lu and insist on participating in Elder Lu's birthday banquet. At that time, Second Young Master Lu will be placed in a difficult situation."
"Haha, some people truly have no awareness. By relying on their appearance, they think they can fool around with the men in our circle. They should reflect on what status they have first."
Zi Yi coldly shot them a glance.
Zhang Peipei mocked. "Why? We didn't say your name, so what do you think you're looking at?"
A sneer curled up on the corner of her lips. "In the past, I've thought that many people in your circle are brainless, but I didn't expect that there are also those without guts."
Zhang Peipei was infuriated. "Who did you say had no guts?"
Zi Yi's cold voice sounded, "Did I mention a name?"
"You-"
"Peipei, don't be rash." Chen Xiangyu and Li Yuting pulled back Zhang Peipei who was on the verge of exploding.
Chapter 215: Do You Think I Would Fancy Such Repulsive Men?
Chen Xiangyu grabbed onto Zhang Peipei while Li Yuting said to Zi Yi, "What skills do you have other than moving that mouth of yours?"
"I have my face." Zi Yi pointed at her face in all seriousness and unceremoniously said, "You can't compare to me. Other than being jealous and dissing me, what can you do?"
Zi Yi narrowed her eyes and kindly reminded her. "You better not mention you have a rich father. We're in an Internet Age, so be careful of getting into trouble."
Li Yuting, who was about to say that she had a higher status than her, could only shut up and stifle her anger.
She was extremely unhappy deep down and sneered. "Don't worry, even if we don't use our status, there's nothing you can compare to us other than having your looks."
"You're wrong." The corner of her lips curled up. "I'm richer than you. After all, after the International Racing Competition, not only did I earn a huge sum of money, I also won Ouyang Ming's racing club and bar through the bet with him... Speaking of which, there's no difference between you and those that are poor when standing in front of me."
"You..." Li Yuting was infuriated to the extent she had forgotten that they had agreed on avoiding a confrontation with Zi Yi. She pointed at her nose and scolded. "What are you so proud of? Who doesn't know you're an uneducated idiot and can't even write more than a handful of characters? Also, you often hang out with hooligans in S City..."
Speaking up to there, Li Yuting felt that everyone's attention was on them. The thought that what she said here today would certainly spread to the Lu Family, she suddenly laughed.
"More importantly, you even snatched your cousin's boyfriend and now, a shameless woman like you is seducing Second Young Master Lu! Do you honestly think you're omnipotent by having looks?"
After Li Yuting said that, the spectator's gaze towards Zi Yi had changed.
Facing all those unkind gazes at her, Zi Yi fished out her phone and hastily typed out strings of codes, and directly uploaded an image onto the display screen inside the jewelry shop.
"Are you talking about her?"
Zi Lian's photo was displayed on the screen.
"You can't even recognize your cousin?" Li Yuting said sarcastically.
Zi Yi looked at her coldly. "You said I seduced her boyfriend?"
Li Yuting crossed her arms and had an expression of looking down on Zi Yi. "Isn't that the case? This news is already widespread throughout S City."
With an indifferent expression, Zi Yi asked, "Who is her boyfriend?"
"Ugh..." Li Yuting was just about to say, 'How could she possibly know?'
Just then, Zi Yi tapped on her phone again and the images of Zi Lian having close contact with several men appeared on the screen.
"Was it this guy? This one? Or this one? Or perhaps this guy?"
Zi Yi brought up four different photos where Zi Lian had close contact with other men and looked at Li Yuting coldly. "Do you think I would fancy such repulsive men?"
Looking at the current situation, Li Yuting was about to suffer a defeat.
Seeing that the situation was heading in an unfavorable direction, Chen Xiangyu softly called out.
Li Yuting was stunned and was stifled with anger as she tried her best to restrain herself on the surface. "How would I know who her boyfriend is? Perhaps they are all her male friends. You..."
"Since you don't know, what are you trying to get across by mentioning this topic? Do you want me to investigate further for you to find out who this so-called boyfriend is of Zi Lian's?"
After she said that, she swiftly typed on the phone and sometime later, the video of Zi Lian screaming in the hotel room was played on the screen. "Sl*t, if it weren't for you who spoiled my plans, I would have done the deed with He Fei. Just you wait, I will ruin your reputation and make you the target of everyone!"
Zi Yi turned off the video and coldly asked, "Is He Fei my cousin's boyfriend?"
Chapter 216: How Could He Fei Fancy a Woman Like That?!
"How could He Fei fancy a woman like that?!"
"Isn't that what all of you have been spreading?"
Just then, everyone in the shop looked towards the trio.
They were ashamed and annoyed at the same time, and wanted to leave at once.
Zi Yi suddenly said in a contemptuous tone, "So you came here today to slander me and make a scene for others to spectate. I thought you came here to purchase jewelry.
Oh right, I doubt you can afford any of the pieces. Let me guess, the so-called young ladies of high society don't have as much pocket money compared to the change that I have?"
After she said that, she took out her card and passed it to the staff as she pointed at the display. "This, this, this and this. I want them all."
The total value of the few sets she chose were worth more than two hundred million.
After she made the purchase, she even provocatively wriggled her eyebrows at them.
One would rather die than be disgraced!
The three young ladies who had been pampered throughout their whole lives had never been looked down upon. Out of impulse, they swiftly chose several sets of jewelry which totaled up to three hundred million.
However, the staff tried charging the purchase to their cards but to no avail, they then returned them and said, "Apologies, the balance on your cards is insufficient." Zi Yi snickered when she heard them.
Her smile was extremely irritating and their expressions became twisted from anger.
However, as young ladies of high society, no matter what, they had to maintain their dignity.
With a sullen expression, Zhang Peipei said to the staff, "I came out in a hurry today and don't have my other cards with me. Put it on my tab and I'll pay the balance another day."
The other two echoed the same thing.
Obviously, the staff would not say anything. It would be a waste not to make such a profitable deal. Moreover, they were all young ladies of the capital's high society and if they dared to escape from the repayment, the company would only have to send a bill of payment to their residences.
Looking at the three of them, who were clearly gnashing their teeth in anger but had to put on a pretense as if nothing had happened when they left, Zi Yi's lips curved up.
Just then, she glanced around and the spectators all looked away and continued to browse through the jewelry.
It was as if what had happened earlier was just merely a few children playing around.
However, they were all thinking deep down that after they returned, they had to find out what exactly was going on.
A girl who did not belong to the capital had bullied the daughters of the families they were familiar with to such an extent!
The several sets of jewelry Zi Yi purchased earlier had been packed away and passed to her.
"Miss, these are the pieces of jewelry you purchased."
The sets Zi Yi purchased were all those that Song Lingluo tried on earlier. She did not take the bag. Instead, she pointed to Song Lingluo who was sitting next to her, and said, "These are for her."
Song Lingluo finally turned around and looked at her and firmly refused. "Little Zi, I can't accept these pieces of jewelry."
At present, Song Lingluo's feelings towards Zi Yi became increasingly complicated.
She never expected Zi Yi to be capable of scaring away those who were obviously finding fault with her, in such a short time.
More importantly, she had helped her son's company earn a huge sum of money. And the most important thing was, she had bought her jewelry.
How could she possibly accept it?
On the other hand, Zi Yi had no ulterior meaning behind her actions. "I accidentally scratched your car the previous time. I originally intended to apologize by paying for the repair fees, but you firmly refused. I believe it's not too much by gifting you a few pieces of jewelry." To her, the jewelry did not cost much.
Song Lingluo felt somewhat awkward deep down.
The young lady before her had purchased two hundred million worth of jewelry to gift her as an apology. That car of hers might not even be worth as much as the gift.
Her emotions became even more complicated.
Just then, Zi Yi's phone rang.
Chapter 217: Have We Met Somewhere Before?
The call was from Senior Bai.
Over the phone, Senior Bai mentioned that the Painting and Calligraphy Association would be preparing a painting for Elder Lu's birthday. While there was still time, all of them would each be preparing a painting, before they would choose one to send as a present.
Zi Yi hung up the phone after agreeing and turned to Song Lingluo.
Song Lingluo smiled and asked, "Little Zi, if you have something to attend to, you can leave first."
Zi Yi thought for a moment and suddenly said, "I'll be making a trip to the Painting and Calligraphy Association. Sister Song, if you're available, you can come with me."
Since she was here to test her, Zi Yi felt that she had to show off her good side.
Song Lingluo was a little surprised. "Little Zi, are you acquainted with people from the Association?"
Zi Yi nodded in response.
Song Lingluo was even more surprised. The background check did not mention Zi Yi knew how to paint, so how did she know anyone from the Association?
It had to be known that those masters from the Painting and Calligraphy Association were all individuals on the national treasure level.
Due to the doubts she had, Song Lingluo decided to tag along.
As such, the two of them headed for the Association.
The moment they arrived at the gates, Song Lingluo faked a cough and said, "My throat is feeling itchy. I might have caught a cold from the air conditioning."
Having said that, she signaled for the bodyguard to pass her a mask.
Zi Yi guessed that Song Lingluo should be acquainted with people from the Association.
However, she did not expose her. The two of them entered only after Song Lingluo finished putting on the mask.
The moment they arrived in the living room, a group of old men surrounded Zi Yi.
"Little friend, your arrival is timely. We were all waiting for you."
"Yiyi, come over quickly. We'll tell you what kind of painting is suitable as a gift to Elder Lu."
...
Zi Yi smiled and pointed at Song Lingluo standing by the door. "I came here with a friend. No matter what, let me get her a seat first."
Only then, did everyone notice Song Lingluo who stood there as if she had blanked out.
Senior Bai looked at Song Lingluo and stroked his chin for a moment. He then asked with uncertainty, "Have we met somewhere before?"
"No." Song Lingluo immediately returned to her senses and replied, "It's possible that the person you know has a similar physique to me."
Senior Bai nodded and said, "You're right... but why are you wearing a mask?"
"Ahem, I have a slight cold and I'm worried that I might spread the virus."
Zi Yi looked at Song Lingluo and a hint of a smile flashed past her eyes. She then said to everyone, "Sister Song has good intentions, Grandpa Bai, stop interrogating her."
"Haha... alright, I'll stop asking."
Senior Bai then ordered the staff standing at the corner. "Bring over some tea quickly. Also, head over to <Yu Xiang Zhai> to buy some cakes. Don't let Yiyi get hungry.
He still recalled Zi Yi's hungry appearance when she completed a painting in the past.
Zi Yi was not polite in the slightest and added, "I want to drink milk tea."
She even asked Song Lingluo, "Sister Song, do you drink milk tea?"
Song Lingluo originally wanted to reject it, but something seemed to come over her and she felt like trying it. "I'll get one cup too."
She needed sugar to suppress the shock she was feeling.
After that, she glanced at Zi Yi who was surrounded by the group of masters. She felt that the scene was a little dreamy.
These masters had a proud temperament and many who wanted a painting from them could only wait for them to be in a good mood before bringing up the request. However, why were these masters so enthusiastic towards a young lady?
Their enthusiasm was to the extent that she even suspected if Zi Yi was one of their granddaughters.
The Lu family had close contact with people from the Painting and Calligraphy circles. Song Lingluo would occasionally come over to request a painting or calligraphy from the masters. But why had she not heard of Zi Yi before?
Song Lingluo suddenly felt like she wanted to see Zi Yi's painting as soon as possible.
Chapter 218: Shocking Mrs. Lu With a Painting
After the group of masters described Elder Lu's favorite style of painting to her, Senior Bai said to her with a chuckle, "You're quick at painting and we wanted you to complete yours first before we slowly complete ours."
In fact, their real intention was to let Zi Yi quickly rise to fame in their circle.
They had already decided beforehand. As long as Zi Yi's style of painting was suitable, they would choose hers. At that time, they would not have to come up with another painting.
Zi Yi was oblivious to their plans. While the group of masters each prepared their paint and paper, Zi Yi walked over to the canvas. She merely pondered for ten minutes before she started to paint.
Song Lingluo could not stay still. She walked over to the masters who were spectating Zi Yi painting and softly asked Senior Bai, "Why did Little Yi immediately start painting?"
Based on her past experiences, painters were very particular when they painted. In particular, coming up with an idea took ages, not to mention the other steps.
Senior Bai had a proud expression. "Yiyi is a genius in the circle. She doesn't need to do much thinking when she paints."
"Could she produce the desired painting this way?"
"You'll know when she's done."
Once Zi Yi started painting, with the expectation of going out for lunch with everyone in the middle, she continued painting until just past four in the afternoon.
When the victory scene of the most famous ancient Emperor, conquering a vast territory, appeared in everyone's line of sight, they were all shocked into excitement.
"T-t-this... this is truly mind blowing!"
"Little friend, exactly how good are your painting skills? Why do I think that your paintings get better every time you paint?"
"I think so too."
Having said that, everyone was staring at Zi Yi with a burning glint in their eyes.
Zi Yi planned to write an ancient poem in the blank space she specially reserved. But when she heard their question, she answered honestly, "I haven't painted for a long time and I was a little stiff in the previous paintings."
Everyone present: "..."
Zi Yi quickly wrote the following words on the painting. 'An old steed in the stable still aspires to gallop a thousand miles, and the old hero still retains his high aspirations even in old age.'
She turned to the masters after she finished writing. "What do you think of this poem?"
"Fantastic!"
"It's great."
The group of masters encircled her painting and praised her.
As for Song Lingluo standing on the side, she was stunned to the extent of not reacting.
Zi Yi looked at Song Lingluo and walked over to her. "Sister Song."
Song Lingluo recovered her senses and looked at her with a complicated gaze. "Little Zi, I didn't expect you to paint so well."
She very much wanted to ask her when did she learn painting? Why was she so different from the information about her?
Where was the useless and idiot young lady?
Why was the young lady before her so talented?
Song Lingluo was confused.
Zi Yi turned towards the masters who were still checking out her painting and said, "As for the framing..."
Before she completed her sentence, Senior Bai immediately waved at her. "Little friend, don't worry. We'll do the follow-ups."
"Yes, that's right. It's been hard on you today. The other matters are trivial."
The other masters echoed, but no one had shifted their gaze away from the painting.
Zi Yi smiled in silence. "Alright then, I'll be leaving with Sister Song."
"Oh, then we won't send you off. After the painting is framed, we'll give you a call."
"Okay."
After settling everything, Zi Yi and Song Lingluo went outside.
While they walked, Song Lingluo looked at Zi Yi. When they were about to exit the gates, Song Lingluo asked, "Little Zi, you're very skilled in painting. I wonder who your teacher is?"
"I don't have one. I only paint as a hobby." Having said that, Zi Yi felt that Song Lingluo might not believe her and added, "I will also draw when I'm bored."
Song Lingluo: "..."
She felt that this child was different from the rumors, but why did she become dishonest so soon?
Just then, Zi Yi said, "If Sister Song likes it, I can gift you a few paintings."
A few paintings?
Song Lingluo eyebrows twitched and she asked, "Little Yi, you've never placed your paintings on sale?"
"That's correct."
"Then where are the paintings you completed in the past?"
"They're..." Zi Yi nearly said that they were in her spatial warehouse, before she recalled that she was on ancient Earth right now. And so, she lied with a serious expression. "I don't know, I casually throw them aside after I'm done. I think they've already been ruined?"
Song Lingluo: "..."
Chapter 219: She's a Treasure
After Song Lingluo and Zi Yi went separate ways, Song Lingluo could not calm down. In the end, she called Lu Jingye.
When the call connected, she asked in a complicated tone, "Jingye, do you know what kind of person the young lady you fancy is?"
Lu Jingye was currently at work. He stood up and walked to the windows upon hearing her question. Looking at the descending sun, he said with a gentle expression, "She's a treasure."
Song Lingluo did not respond. If she hadn't spent the whole day with Zi Yi today, she would immediately refuse his words. However, she did not know what to say right now.
But even so, she did not intend to tell him of her meeting with Zi Yi today, and not to mention, they spent the whole day together. "Don't work until late at night. You should rest when it's time to rest."
"Mother, I understand."
Upon hanging up the phone, Lu Jingye glanced at his screen which had dimmed. He did not immediately bury himself in work but instead, suddenly recalled the young lady.
He wondered what she was doing right now.
He recalled the day they confirmed their relationship, and he informed her that he had to work overtime every day. Thinking of the young lady's discontented expression, the corner of his lips curved up.
Zi Yi was currently driving when she suddenly sneezed and muttered to herself, "Could it be that Lu Jingye misses me?"
Having said that, she changed the car to automatic driving and gave Lu Jingye a call.
Zi Yi immediately asked when the call went through, "Lu Jingye, are you thinking of me?"
There was a few seconds of silence from the opposite end before Lu Jingye responded with an affirmative.
Zi Yi was elated. "Are you coming back to the villa near the university?"
She did not wait for his response before she discontentedly said, "It has been 3 days and 22 hours since you agreed to be my boyfriend. If you don't show up, I'm about to forget that you're my boyfriend."
Lu Jingye: "..."
"Therefore you should show up in front of me from time to time. Therefore, since it's about time for dinner, I'll treat you."
Lu Jingye's voice contained traces of a smile. "What do you want to eat?"
Zi Yi was elated. "What's there near your company? We'll eat someone nearby."
"Ok, I'll get my secretary to make the booking. I'll send you the address shortly."
"Okay~"
After hanging up the phone, Zi Yi happily drove towards the direction of Lu Jingye's company.
Soon, he had sent her the address of the restaurant.
She was only two streets away from his company. When she arrived at the address, she discovered that it was a private restaurant.
After parking the car, she walked over. Seeing that the door was unlocked, she directly opened it.
What entered her view was a courtyard. At that moment, Lu Jingye was currently conversing with a tall and bald man wearing a sleeveless black vest.
When they saw Zi Yi, their conversation stopped and the bald-headed man asked, "Ershao[1], this is the guest you're waiting for?"
"Yes."
"Then make yourself at home. I'll head to the kitchen to take a look."
Having said that, he headed towards the kitchen.
After the bald-headed man left, Zi Yi checked out the courtyard for signs of other individuals. Seeing that it was empty, she directly ran over and jumped into Lu Jingye's embrace.
With that jump of hers, her curvaceous figure pressed against his chest.
Lu Jingye's expression stiffened. A second later, he hugged her waist.
Her body was as soft as jade, and there was a faint fragrance at the tip of his nose. A few moments later, Lu Jingye gently patted her back and his voice was slightly deep.
"The owner has already prepared the dishes. Let's go in."
Zi Yi looked up at the prim and proper Lu Jingye with her bright and twinkling eyes. She then stood on tiptoe and stole a kiss from his lips, before withdrawing from his embrace. In the end, she did not forget to hold his hand with a smile and walked inside.
[1] A more intimate way of calling Second Young Master
Chapter 220: Ershao Has Taken a Fancy to a Woman
Lu Jingye held her hands and said as they walked, "This private restaurant is very famous. It only receives a few customers each day, but the food here is delicious."
While walking, Zi Yi checked out the interior and asked, "Why don't I see other customers?"
Lu Jingye suddenly looked at her. "I am acquainted with the owner. Having heard I had made a reservation, he pushed back the reservations of other customers."
The dining area was not exactly spacious. It could at most hold two or three tables and the furniture inside appeared aged. However, those that were familiar with antiques could identify in a glance that all the furniture were real antiques.
The two of them sat down on a square-shaped table.
Zi Yi's eyes lingered on Lu Jingye for a moment before shifting down to his suit. She then shifted and directly sat down on the bench he sat on.
Lu Jingye glanced at the bench and said disapprovingly. "You might fall."
Zi Yi's lips curled up. "Aren't you here with me?"
Lu Jingye suddenly turned silent and an inexplicable feeling surged in his heart.
He discovered that he liked it whenever she said things that implied her complete trust in him.
Zi Yi lifted her hands and pulled the lapels of his suit. "You're still dressed so formally on a date with me. It's really uncomfortable to look at."
Lu Jingye looked down at her fingers that started to move around. He held onto her fingers, pried them off his clothes, but did not release them and said seriously, "I'll pay attention next time."
Having her hands wrapped in the palms of his hands, Zi Yi could feel the warmth transmitted and she looked at him with a smile.
Just then, footsteps came from outside.
Very soon, the owner appeared at the door with a tray of food in his hands.
Zi Yi took advantage while Lu Jingye looked towards the door and leaned over to give him a kiss on his lips.
The bald-headed owner who took a step inside had subconsciously retreated.
Lu Jingye's deeper-than-normal voice sounded. "Serve the dishes."
Only then, did the bald-headed owner come in and serve the food.
When that happened, Zi Yi had already sat back in her original seat.
She greeted the bald-headed owner's sneaky peek with a calm expression.
The owner hastily looked away and introduced the dishes before he left immediately.
"Hehe..." Zi Yi could not hold it in and laughed as she picked up the chopsticks. "The gaze the boss looked at me with earlier seemed as if he was looking at a monster."
She then quirked her eyebrow and asked, "You've never brought a woman out to eat alone in the past?"
"That's right."
Lu Jingye filled her bowl with some dishes, and she ate them with relish. "Yummy."
She reciprocated the favor. "You should eat too."
The bald-headed owner standing outside was shocked.
When the woman beside him saw him staring blankly, she nudged him. "What's wrong?"
The man glanced at her and he revealed a complicated expression. "Ershao has taken a fancy to a woman."
"..."
"He's a man. If he doesn't like women, is he supposed to like men?"
The bald-headed man's expression darkened. He hastily glanced at the door, suppressed his voice, and said, "What nonsense are you spouting? I'm only expressing my surprise. Ershao Lu, who doesn't seem to be interested in women, has unexpectedly fancied a young lady... How dare you even say that he likes men..."
Lu Jingye was considered their godchild and they had seen him rejecting his admirers one after another. It was only because of this that he had such a reaction.
The woman shrugged her shoulders, thinking that she hadn't said anything wrong. "It's your words that are ambiguous alright."
The bald-headed man fell silent.
The woman could not stand it anymore. "Isn't it great that he has a woman he likes? What are you standing here and looking at them for?"
"You don't understand." The bald-headed man stroked his head and lowered his voice further. "I'm worried Old man Lu might not like the woman Ershao fancies."
The woman suddenly stopped talking.