Chapter 38: Lingyun Grand Hotel (6)

In her heart, Meng Yi’er had cursed this scheming man thousands of times, yet on the surface she remained composed, offering a flawless smile and nodding in greeting to everyone present.

Mo Bei, upon hearing Yu Mingxin’s introduction, looked Meng Yi’er up and down in astonishment. She truly was a rare beauty—her features clear and exquisite. Even with light makeup and a casual outfit, she outshone those dazzling starlets by far. No wonder Yan Yichen had been captivated by her for so many years.

So, this was the legendary nemesis of Yan Yichen. At last, he could witness her true face.

Mo Bei glanced at Yan Yichen, who lounged at ease, sipping his red wine, and suddenly understood everything. A knowing smile appeared on his lips as he extended his hand. “Mo Bei—”

“Miss Meng, I’ve long heard of your name—”

Long heard of me? Could it be that he knows me? Meng Yi’er sized him up, certain she had never met this man before.

That couldn't be. She was no celebrity, merely an insignificant nobody who had lived abroad for years. How could anyone know her?

Puzzled, Meng Yi’er looked at him and shook his hand. “Mr. Mo, have we met?”

Mo Bei did not immediately release her hand, smiling as he said, “Miss Meng, you naturally don’t know me, but I heard of you a long time ago from a friend.”

As he finished speaking, Mo Bei cast a glance at Yan Yichen, noticing the man’s relaxed demeanor had vanished. His handsome face was now frosted over, and his deep eyes shot a lightning glance at their joined hands.

Meng Yi’er was a little surprised. “Really? And who is this friend of yours, Mr. Mo? I wonder how he could know me?”

Mo Bei chuckled softly and finally let go of her hand. “That friend of mine is hardly worth mentioning. I imagine you’ve long forgotten him, Miss Meng. Best not to bring it up.”

After all these years spent side by side with Yan Yichen, Mo Bei knew him too well. The man was like a saint, impossible to find a flaw in. Now, at last, he’d discovered Yan Yichen’s weakness.

The thought pleased Mo Bei greatly, though he knew better than to push his luck. If he truly angered this devil, his own livelihood would be at risk.

Meng Yi’er found this man called Mo Bei rather odd, though she couldn’t quite put her finger on why. Seeing he wished to end the conversation, she let the matter drop.

Yu Siming glanced at the young people and spoke up, “Since we’re all among friends, that’s even better. You’re all young and have plenty in common to talk about. This old man won’t keep you company. Mingxin, Yi’er, you two should chat with Young Master Hua, Mr. Yan, and Manager Mo. It’s always good to have more friends.”

With that, Yu Siming excused himself. Meng Yi’er, noticing Yan Yichen’s eyes never left her despite his silence, felt awkward.

“Um, excuse me a moment, everyone, I need to use the restroom.”

With that, Meng Yi’er hurried away in the direction of the bathroom, thinking to herself, “Heavens, this atmosphere is far too strange. It’s safer to escape. Mingxin, forgive me for abandoning you.”

She had just rounded the long corridor when she bumped directly into someone’s chest. Hastily stepping back and rubbing her forehead, she apologized repeatedly.

Once she steadied herself and looked up, she realized the person before her was none other than Yan Yichen.

“Mr. Yan, what are you doing here?”

Yan Yichen strode toward her, and Meng Yi’er instantly sensed the oppressive force of his presence. The space between them was already small; with each step he took forward, she retreated, until her back was pressed against the cold wall, with nowhere left to go.

She wanted to escape, but he had already trapped her. “I—I…”

Yan Yichen’s eyes locked onto hers, his handsome face drawing closer and closer, so near that Meng Yi’er could hear his heartbeat and feel his breath. Her cheeks flushed, her hands pressed against his chest, and she squeezed her eyes shut in fright.

After a long moment, Yan Yichen spoke softly, “Miss Meng, you remind me very much of a girl I once knew.”