Chapter XIX

290 9 2
                                    


Sorry about the long break.🙃 Vote and comment y'all

The sleek black car glided through the streets of Qinghe, its tinted windows reflecting the city's vibrant neon signs and bustling sidewalks.

Inside, Yang Zhilan sat in the plush leather seat, her hands folded neatly in her lap with her phone in hand as she stole glances at Song Jieli, who was also tapping away at her phone with manicured nails.

After getting off the call with Fu Shiyun, she had more questions to ask than answers. Especially about him...

She heard Mr Xi left for some private work earlier today after she left him with Song Jieli that morning and so she was sure he would be there.

"We have some time before the gathering," Song Jieli said, finally looking up from her device. "I thought we might do a bit of shopping. After all, we can't show up empty-handed, can we?"

Yang Zhilan nodded, trying to hide her awkwardness,"Of course."

"Please, call me Jieli," the other woman insisted with a warm smile that didn't quite reach her eyes. "We're friends now, aren't we?"

The car pulled up to a high-end boutique, its windows showcasing an array of glittering accessories and designer clothing. As they stepped out, Yang Zhilan felt immediately out of place among the luxurious surroundings.

Inside the store, Song Jieli moved with the confidence of a frequent patron, while Yang Zhilan trailed behind, careful not to touch anything.

"So, tell me," Song Jieli began, casually browsing through a display of silk ties, "I am picking up so gifts. What does Jinwei like? You must have some insight, working so closely with him."

Yang Zhilan hesitated, her mind racing. "Well, Mr. Xi is quite... private. He doesn't often discuss personal matters."

Song Jieli's eyes narrowed slightly. "Come now, surely you've noticed something. His favourite color, perhaps? Or a hobby?"

Feeling trapped, Yang Zhilan blurted out, "He seems fond of jade. I've noticed he often wears a jade cufflinks."

"Interesting," Song Jieli murmured, her gaze calculating. She selected elegant white jade cufflinks from the display. "This should do nicely. Now, let's find something for you to bring."

Yang Zhilan's eyes widened at the price tag. The cufflinks Song Jieli got were worth about 8 to 9 months of her monthly salary. Was this how rich people operated?

After another uncomfortable half hour of shopping they were back in the car.

As they arrived, Yang Zhilan's nerves were on edge. The doorman ushered them into a private elevator, and soon they were stepping into a lavishly decorated apartment building.

Before they could reach the main apartment, a man greeted them at hallway, looking like he was going somewhere. Yang Zhilan was a bit surprised at his uncanny resemblance to Song Jieli. Were they twins?

The man his expression flickering with surprise when he saw Yang Zhilan. "Oh Sister, you're here. Who's this?"

Song Jieli beamed, linking her arm with Yang Zhilan's. "Cang, this is Yang Zhilan. Zhilan, this is my brother, Song Cang."

Yang Zhilan waved in greeting and Song Cang nodded in response. Then he focused his attention on his sister.

" Mother has been trying to reach all day. She says the moment I see you, I should tell you to call her. It's important." Song Jieli told her brother.

Song Cang sighed pinching his brows." I'm on it. See you in there."

As they entered, Zhilan was struck by the elegance of the luxury condo. A small group of well-dressed people were gathered in the spacious living area, their quiet conversations creating a gentle hum in the air.

Batter My Heart,Mr Xi (Book 2)Where stories live. Discover now