On the day of the party, Song Yi dressed meticulously, choosing a charcoal-gray suit with a subtle pattern. This particular suit was tricky to pull off—it could easily look old-fashioned and greasy if the person’s physique or appearance didn’t suit it. If they were too muscular, the fit would look awkward and mismatched, making the suit hard to wear well, which was why few dared to try it.

But Song Yi, with his naturally graceful frame, tall and lean build, refined demeanor, and striking good looks, wore it with ease. The outfit made him appear sharp and composed, exuding a suave, masculine elegance.

When Song Yi arrived at the hotel entrance, he immediately spotted a large banner unfurled in front of the building. The image showed Shen Li laughing brightly on a beach, with a long message above: “Mr. Zhou wishes Shen Li, our little cutie, a happy birthday.”

Song Yi stared at the words “little cutie” for a few seconds, letting out a quiet sigh. It seemed Shen Li had gained even more admirers in recent years.

Inside the hall, the place was packed. Men and women in elegant attire mingled, their perfume lingering in the air, while the soft sound of piano music played in the background. The sweet scent of cakes from the dessert buffet filled the room.

Song Yi glanced around but didn’t spot Shen Li. Instead, he felt all eyes on him—people couldn’t seem to stop staring, their gazes practically glued to him. Some even pulled out their phones to snap photos.

Song Yi pretended not to notice, grabbing a small, pastel-colored cake from the stand and finding a quiet corner to fill his stomach.

Before he could take a bite, a commotion erupted near the entrance. The crowd in the hall surged toward the door. Song Yi glanced up, and when he saw what the fuss was about, he narrowed his eyes, silently cursing.

Gu Xingchuan had arrived, dressed in a simple gray crew-neck T-shirt, jeans, and a trendy baseball cap. In his left hand, he held a brightly colored potted plant. Without a glance to either side, he strode confidently through the crowd, giving the impression that everyone was there just to welcome him.

Song Yi couldn’t help but admire Gu Xingchuan’s knack for drawing attention. No matter where he went, he shone like the sun—naturally born for the spotlight.

Song Yi’s eyes locked with Gu Xingchuan’s across the room, a brief clash in the air. He saw Gu Xingchuan frown slightly before striding over.

As he got closer, Song Yi caught the faint floral scent from the potted plant Gu Xingchuan was carrying. Casually, Gu set it down on the table, then slouched into the chair beside him. Glancing at Song Yi with a smug expression, he remarked sarcastically, “Dressed up so nice today—who are you trying to seduce?”

Song Yi touched the soft leaves of the plant. “You know exactly who. What, you think I’m trying to seduce you?”

Hearing this, Gu Xingchuan instantly got riled up. His sneaker nudged Song Yi’s pant leg under the table, and with a mocking laugh, he shot back, “You don’t need to dress up to seduce me—just take it all off, that’ll do.”

“Go to hell,” Song Yi snapped, glaring at him. “Show a little respect in public.”

Gu Xingchuan’s lips curled into a slight smirk. “So, you’re saying it’s fine if I say this in private?”

Song Yi pressed his shoe down hard on Gu Xingchuan’s sneaker, twisting it roughly. The pain made Gu Xingchuan wince and bend slightly, his eyes bright and fixed on Song Yi.

Song Yi tilted his chin, his tone warning. “Next time, I won’t just be stepping on your shoes.”

Gu Xingchuan muttered, his mind racing with that wicked image, feeling parched and flushed with excitement.

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