Ruolan's smile remained fixed in place, but the tightening of her fingers at her sides did not go unnoticed.
She had spent years carefully weaving her influence, subtly inserting herself into the circles that mattered, always ensuring she was seen as charming, desirable, and indispensable.
And yet—Gu Zeyan had dismissed her without hesitation.
That was unacceptable.
She quickly masked her displeasure, stepping back with the same elegant composure she had mastered over the years. "It seems I interrupted something important," she said lightly. "Please, don't let me disturb you."
Leng Yichen, who had been lounging against the armrest of the sofa, let out a lazy chuckle. "Don't worry, you weren't that important to begin with."
Ruolan's smile stiffened.
She had grown used to the Leng brothers treating her with indifference, but now, in front of Gu Zeyan, it was more humiliating than ever.
Still, she wouldn't falter. Not yet.
She cast a seemingly harmless glance at Qingxue, her voice gentle but carrying a hidden sting. "Xue'er, you must be happy. It's rare for Young Master Gu to take time out of his schedule for anyone."
It was a calculated move, meant to imply something deeper, something suggestive—meant to stir unrest.
But Qingxue merely took a sip of her tea, her expression unchanging. "Indeed, Zeyan has always been someone who values his priorities."
Her tone was neutral, effortlessly dismissing Ruolan's attempt to sow discord.
Zeyan's lips twitched in amusement, but he didn't speak.
Ruolan gritted her teeth internally.
It was always like this.
No matter how much she tried, no matter how subtle her moves were, Qingxue was untouchable.
The Lengs always knew. Always countered.
But it didn't matter. Because she had learned something valuable today.
Gu Zeyan was a weakness.
Or rather—he was the trigger for a storm waiting to break.
And she intended to take full advantage of it.
---
Meanwhile, Jiang Yuixen sat beside Leng Zhen, observing the interactions with quiet interest.
Her sharp eyes lingered on Gu Zeyan.
He was composed, powerful, and carried himself like someone who had already decided his future.
And in that future, her daughter stood beside him.
Jiang Yuixen smirked slightly.
It seemed things were becoming even more interesting.