Liu Yi, not being a professional designer, had her first show in a somewhat secluded garden villa. I expected it wouldn’t attract many people, but to my surprise, when we arrived, the place was packed with media, reporters, and socialites. The setup and extravagance were even more ostentatious than many seasoned veterans. Song Ying and I were a bit late; the show had already started. We found a quiet corner to sit down. Due to the dim lighting, I couldn’t spot Song Li right away. I decided to focus on the show first.
The stage was designed like an ancient Roman coliseum, perfectly complementing Liu Yi’s theme of Spartan warriors, showcasing both creativity and flair. Choosing men’s wear for her debut, a less favored category, and executing it with such professional planning, it was clear she wasn’t just dabbling but seriously intended to enter the field. Although men’s fashion shows are typically less captivating, this one was impressive. The music, models, presentation, and her designs all exuded a thick European charm. Even as a complete layman, I found it quite appealing.
When Liu Yi made her final appearance as the designer, she played the only female model, wearing a light gray robe. The tight fabric wrapped diagonally over her shoulders and chest, exposing a slender waist, while the long, intricate skirt trailed behind. Her golden-brown curls flowed like satin, adorned with a headband half-hidden in her hair, with gemstone pendants hanging over her forehead. Holding a scepter, barefoot, she was followed by two rows of male models, enhancing her goddess-like aura. She bowed gracefully to acknowledge the applause, which erupted into thunderous clapping. Flashes from cameras crisscrossed as media rushed forward, surrounding Liu Yi like stars around the moon.
“Miss Liu, what’s the secret behind putting together such a spectacular show in such a short time?”
“Miss Liu, are you studying fashion design? Is Hengqing Real Estate planning to make a big move into the fashion industry?”
“Miss Liu, tell us about your Milan trip.”
“Miss Liu, there are photos of you and the third young master of Guangyin Electronics shopping intimately in Italy. Are you dating?”
Liu Yi responded with a sweet, gentle smile, “First, I want to thank everyone for taking the time to attend my show. I’m truly grateful. Fashion design has always been a dream of mine, and today I can fulfill it by hosting my own fashion show. Apart from your gracious support, I must thank two people. One is Mr. Cheng Yu, the deputy manager of Guangyin Electronics, who provided immense support during my Milan trip. Despite being childhood friends, I want to take this opportunity to express my gratitude. And the other,” Liu Yi paused, her gaze softening, her smile blooming like spring flowers, “is Mr. Song Li, the CEO of Xin Song Technology. I could only complete my work in such a tight timeframe thanks to Mr. Song’s significant assistance.”
At this moment, a male reporter with glasses interjected with a sarcastic tone, “Miss Liu, you’re too formal. Mr. Song isn’t just anyone. Not to mention past relationships, anyone who attended Xin Song’s wedding knows, isn’t Miss Liu Mr. Song’s aunt?”
Chapter Thirty-Two: New Show (Part Two)
The reporter’s expression suggested he was trying to stir up the crowd or curry favor, but his flattery was misplaced. Liu Yi’s smile froze on her face, and despite her usual social adeptness, she couldn’t help but look slightly embarrassed. The crowd exchanged knowing, meaningful looks. Duan Zhiming approached with a calm smile and said to everyone, “Let’s call it a day here. We will hold a special press conference soon where we will announce the new development projects for Hengqing and Xinsong next year. Please make sure to attend. Now, we have a buffet prepared for you in the fountain garden; please follow me and enjoy the delicacies we’ve prepared.” As the crowd dispersed, I saw Song Li and Cheng Yu standing out. Cheng Yu’s skin had darkened slightly, his cheeks looked a bit gaunt, making his gaze even more piercing and his smile mocking. He looked in the direction where the group was leaving and softly remarked with a half-smile, “These days, journalists dare to say anything. How can someone with such unprofessional behavior become a journalist?” A young man in a sharp black suit, standing behind him with a stern expression, slightly nodded and then turned to leave.
Liu Yi, upon seeing them, quickly approached with a beaming smile, linking arms with Song Li and cooed, “Li, how did I do just now?” Song Li gently adjusted her bangs and said with a deep laugh, “Do you even need to ask? You could consider becoming a full-time model.” Liu Yi held his hand, and they gazed at each other with affection, seemingly oblivious to anyone else. Watching their intimate interaction, my heart felt like it was fizzing with the soda I had just drunk, bubbling with sourness that stung slightly. Beside me, Song Ying gently squeezed my hand. I lowered my head, silent for a moment, then turned to her with a small smile, whispering, “I’m fine.” Suddenly, Song Ying’s eyes lit up as she looked towards Liu Yi and exclaimed softly, “Ah, he’s here!”
I looked up to see that several people had joined them, including one with semi-long black hair tied in a bun, wearing black-framed glasses, dressed simply yet exuding an air of noble refinement — it was Ji Shanchuan. Liu Yi’s voice was slightly excited, “It’s such an honor that you could grace us with your presence!” Although Liu Yi was usually gentle and courteous in public, she always carried an underlying pride and reserve, as if her kindness and smiles were merely condescending gifts from a young lady. It was rare to see her as genuinely humble as she was now. Ji Shanchuan, despite his youth, was a master in the men’s fashion world; no matter one’s status, you had to respectfully address him as ‘Master’ once in this circle.
I pulled Song Ying closer to listen. Liu Yi was saying, “Master Ji, please give me some advice. If I can receive your critique, I’m sure I’ll progress rapidly.” Her voice was as gentle as water, stirring even my heart. Ji Shanchuan shook his head slightly and smiled, “Miss Liu, you come from a real estate family and chose such an extraordinary theme for your first venture into fashion. Your courage is admirable. With the wealth of the Liu family and the strong support from Song Li and Cheng Yu, what can’t you achieve?” He looked around and continued with a gentle, detached smile, “So, your team must be top-notch, from the preliminary promotions, stage design, even down to the selection of models — all first-class.” His words, soft and clear, reached everyone’s ears distinctly. Liu Yi’s face turned slightly pale. I stifled a laugh. Brother Shanchuan, you’re too harsh, mentioning everything but her actual designs. He then called out softly, “Ah, so you’re here, why didn’t you come find me?”
Ji Shanchuan’s earlier words, though polite, lacked sincerity, but this new remark was clearly affectionate, showing a close relationship. Before I could look closer, he was already in front of me, playfully tapping my head with a fist, “Hey, you don’t even answer my calls? We could have come together, wouldn’t that have been nice?” He was talking to me. Not wanting to be rude by leaving mid-conversation, he grabbed my hand and pulled me back into the circle. Liu Yi, noticing his grip on my hand, awkwardly smiled, “Xia Ai, Yingying, you’re both here!” I nodded faintly. Song Ying stepped forward, smiling, “Sister Yi, congratulations!” Then she looked at Cheng Yu with enthusiasm, “You’re here too?” Cheng Yu, expressionless, lit a cigarette, holding it casually between two fingers, stared at me, and exhaled smoke in my direction.
