Chapter 58: The Stage is Set
The Leng estate was unusually quiet that evening, the calm before the inevitable storm. News of the Leng family's attendance at the imperial charity gala spread like wildfire, igniting speculation and excitement within the elite circles.
For years, Qingxue had remained elusive, a name whispered among the powerful but never truly seen in action. Now, with her stepping into the limelight, the game was shifting.
In her private lounge, Qingxue sat with a cup of tea in hand, her silver-blue eyes reflecting the soft glow of the chandelier above. Qiuhan sat across from her, silent but watchful.
"They're expecting something," he said after a moment.
Qingxue took a slow sip. "Let them."
Qiuhan's gaze darkened. "Gu Zeyan won't sit still. After today, he'll push further."
She set her cup down with a soft clink. "Then let him try."
A knock interrupted them. The door opened slightly, revealing Leng Yichen's playful smirk. "Our dear parents request your presence in the main hall."
Qingxue stood gracefully. "It's time?"
"Mm." Yichen grinned. "Let's see how extravagant Mother wants us to look tomorrow."
———
The Next Evening—The Imperial Charity Gala
The entrance of the Imperial Hotel was bathed in golden lights, illuminating the rows of luxury cars pulling up one after another. Reporters and photographers lingered outside, eager to capture glimpses of the most powerful families as they arrived.
Inside the grand hall, opulence dripped from every corner. Crystal chandeliers sparkled overhead, and the polished marble floors reflected the glow of golden candlelight. High society figures mingled, their conversations laced with underlying tension and hidden agendas.
But as the grand doors opened once more, a hush swept through the hall.
The Leng family had arrived.
Jiang Yuixen led the way, radiating elegance in a gown of midnight silk, while Leng Zhen's powerful aura made even the boldest men hesitate to approach.
Behind them, the five elder Leng brothers walked with effortless dominance, each a vision of striking perfection in their tailored suits.
And then, there were the twins.
Leng Qingxue stepped forward with a grace that seemed almost ethereal. Dressed in a flowing silver gown that shimmered under the chandeliers, she looked like a vision carved from ice and moonlight. Her silver-blue eyes were cold, unreadable, yet mesmerizing.
Beside her, Qiuhan matched her step for step, dressed in an impeccably tailored black suit with silver accents. His cold presence was as imposing as ever, his silver-blue eyes carrying the same icy sharpness as his sister's.
A collective breath was taken as they entered.
They weren't just attending.
They were making a statement.
Gu Zeyan, who had been engaged in idle conversation, finally turned. His golden eyes darkened the moment they landed on Qingxue.
She was untouchable.
Yet, she was right in front of him.
Across the hall, Li Shen tilted his glass with an amused smirk. "Ah… now this is interesting."
And in the shadows, Leng Ruolan clenched her fists, a storm of jealousy raging within her.
The stage was set.
And the wolves were ready to play.