Chapter 21: The Investment Promotion Conference

Shen Ling thanked him repeatedly before hanging up the phone. With just a moment's thought, she already had a few suspicions in her heart—Xu Shengye must have guessed her intentions and, fearing she might find it awkward to ask, had brought up the matter himself. After all these years, Xu Shengye was still exactly as he had been in college: a breath of fresh spring air in every interaction, always considerate of others’ feelings, and despite his privileged background, completely lacking the arrogance of a young master.

The next day, she followed the address to the investment fair. Without an invitation, she couldn’t get in. Xu Shengye had arrived early and was waiting for her at the entrance. Perhaps because it was such an important occasion, he wore a perfectly tailored gray suit, exuding courteous elegance, his posture straight and tall, standing out strikingly among the crowd.

She quickened her pace, flashing a brilliant smile. “Sorry to keep you waiting.”

“I just got here too. Let’s head in together,” Xu Shengye replied with an understanding smile, his eyes softened by his gentle expression, making him appear all the more handsome and approachable.

The venue was large and bustling with many attendees. Clearly, there was strong competition at this investment fair. As soon as they entered, someone greeted Xu Shengye—an apparent business associate—so he had to step away to exchange pleasantries.

Shen Ling nodded, indicating she would wait nearby. Xu Shengye strode off to handle the greetings.

Left alone, she glanced around. It was still early; people hadn’t yet returned to their seats, so the hall was lively and noisy. Most faces in the crowd were unfamiliar to her.

Unexpectedly, as she turned, she spotted two very familiar faces—Zhou Bin and Feng Qin, together as anticipated. Feng Qin also noticed her, her gaze tinged with a complicated emotion, as if she couldn’t fathom what connections Shen Ling might have here.

But with Zhou Bin beside her, Feng Qin was clearly emboldened. She walked over at a leisurely pace, sneering provocatively, “What are you doing at a place like this? But I’m afraid your trip today will be in vain.”

Shen Ling glanced at Zhou Bin, who wore an expression of smug self-importance, as if expecting her to beg for his help.

She lowered her head and gave a brief, dismissive laugh, not bothering to respond.

But Feng Qin, relentless, pressed on with her taunts. “I bet it won’t be long before you’re handing in your resignation.”

Shen Ling found her provocations petty and beneath her concern. “Words are useless now. Let’s see what happens on the real battlefield.”

Zhou Bin sneered maliciously, “What are you without me?”

“Without your backer, your little skills are hardly worth a glance in their eyes. If I were you, I wouldn’t get involved in this mess, lest you become a laughingstock.”

Feng Qin finished speaking and burst into shrill, triumphant laughter, her delight at Shen Ling’s supposed misfortune evident.

Shen Ling wrinkled her brow, covering her ears against the noise.

She couldn’t be bothered to argue and, with a cool and indifferent “oh,” turned away and walked off.

Zhou Bin, infuriated by her utter disregard, clenched his fists so tightly that his knuckles cracked audibly.

Sensing his agitation, Feng Qin consoled him, “Don’t worry. With the two of us working together, we’re sure to make her stumble.”

Zhou Bin’s eyes grew darker and more vicious. “I can hardly wait to see that happen.”

When Xu Shengye returned, he had clearly noticed the people who had just spoken with Shen Ling. He asked, “Friends of yours?”

“Competitors,” Shen Ling replied lightly, then took her seat beside him.

The investment fair officially began. This event, led by the city government and aimed at the business community, was drawing ambitious participants, each with their own objectives. After receiving the event materials, Shen Ling had spent the previous night preparing thoroughly; today, she was determined to succeed.

Once the host finished the opening remarks, they quickly moved on to the main agenda. Xu Shengye appeared to be listening attentively to each project presentation, though he didn’t seem particularly interested. Shen Ling noticed this and knew he was likely only here for her sake; she glanced at him gratefully.

Xu Shengye seemed to sense her gratitude and smiled encouragingly. “Go for it.”

Shen Ling nodded slightly. When the host introduced the project she had been eyeing, she eagerly rose to introduce her company.

Standing before the crowd, she spoke confidently without notes, her brilliance shining through. In Xu Shengye’s eyes, she became even more admirable.

She was still the same Shen Ling, unchanged from the one in his memories, yet now with a steadiness honed by time.

Sensing the intensity of his gaze, Shen Ling was momentarily taken aback. Before she could ponder his intentions, Feng Qin suddenly stood up.