Chapter 15: The Last Chance

“Spread the word: tonight at six o’clock, the Royal Grand Hotel’s second floor will host the Su Group’s victory banquet.” Su Dashan stood by the glass for a long time, finally making his decision. The person who had been standing quietly behind him bowed at the instruction, then turned and left the office.

Soon, news of the Su Group’s celebration at the Royal Hotel swept through almost every corner of the commercial circles in Shanghai. Naturally, the news reached Xiao Weiguo’s ears as well.

“That Su Dashan—he’s lived all these years and still doesn’t know how to keep a low profile. But perhaps it’s for the best; at least Mo will have a clearer view of what the Su family is truly like.” Back in his office after returning from the Peace Hotel, Xiao Weiguo wore a wry smile as he learned of the event.

He knew well the purpose behind Su Dashan’s move. For a publicly listed group, this so-called celebration was, in essence, a commercial maneuver. First, to build momentum, using the banquet to create an image of prosperity in the capital markets and boost Su Group’s stock price. Second, to forge partnerships, collaborating with powerful enterprises to develop projects jointly and distribute risks.

“Dad.” In the office, Xiao Xiao looked sullenly at her father, pouting, hesitating to speak. She had hoped to linger a bit longer with Mo Ran, but her father had whisked her away.

“Mo is a good kid, but he’s already married. You, a proper young lady, shouldn’t get too close to him—it’s simply not appropriate.” Xiao Weiguo understood his daughter’s feelings, but because of his special position, many matters required caution. He explained mildly.

“He’s only married in name—in reality, what sort of marriage is that?” Xiao Xiao understood, but still protested, unconvinced.

“Xiao Xiao, the way you’re dressed today—do you think your father can’t see what’s on your mind? Or do you believe I’m blind, unable to recognize Mo’s status in the Su family? Don’t bother with your little tricks; feelings are what they are, and I won’t stand in your way. But you must understand, that single marriage certificate is enough to negate everything.” Xiao Weiguo patiently explained. He bore no prejudice against status or class, but in his position, even trivial matters could become ammunition for political adversaries, so caution was vital.

“Dad, you noticed?” Hearing this, Xiao Xiao instantly tensed, stealing a nervous glance at Xiao Weiguo and muttering timidly.

“Of course. You’ve worked so hard to set the stage, just to let Mo see the true colors of Su Qingcheng and her family, and hope they divorce, right? Do I need to spell out the next steps? I’ve seen through this little scheme of yours ages ago.” Xiao Weiguo’s smile deepened as he looked at his precious daughter.

“Father, you don’t mind?” Her ruse exposed, Xiao Xiao’s cheeks flushed crimson, but she pressed on, her words laden with hidden meaning.

“Why would I mind? I’ve reached the peak of my career; I won’t use you for a political marriage. I believe in fate.” Xiao Weiguo waved his hand dismissively. “But before all this is settled, don’t act rashly. The rest will be handled for you.”

“I understand,” Xiao Xiao nodded. She trusted her father had prepared a contingency.

Meanwhile, in Su Qingcheng’s villa, the two had barely arrived home and hadn’t even taken a sip of water when they received the news of Su Dashan’s evening banquet.

Upon hearing it, seeing the Su family’s jubilant faces around him, Mo Ran felt a spark of anticipation. If Su Qingcheng’s words were true, tonight’s banquet would be her perfect chance to formally introduce him to the world.

Yet, unfortunately, ever since the bidding ended, Su Qingcheng had neither spoken to him nor offered a friendly glance. Her face was cold and stern, the same look of disdain and contempt as in the past.

“Mo Ran, we’re going to the banquet tonight. Qingxue, you look after things here. We’ll likely be back late, so don’t wait up—sleep if you wish.” Amid Mo Ran’s swelling hope, the Su family changed into their formal attire. Su Qingcheng descended the stairs, issuing her instructions.

At that moment, Mo Ran’s heart sank deep into the sea. He didn’t answer, simply stood there silently, watching Su Qingcheng as she descended, hand on the banister.

She wore a simple black evening gown, its skirt soft and flowing, as if the stars themselves had fallen at her feet. At her waist bloomed a golden rose, making her even more radiant and captivating. The dress traced her figure flawlessly, outlining a perfect S-shaped curve, her allure rising exponentially.

“Mo Ran, Qingcheng is speaking to you. Did you hear her?” After a moment’s pause without a reply, Mo Ran only stared blankly at Su Qingcheng. Su Sen, standing nearby, grew furious, suspecting he was fantasizing about his daughter, so lost in thought he’d forgotten himself. Unable to contain himself, he demanded, “What’s wrong with you? You filthy nobody, how dare you covet my daughter!”

“Qingcheng, I want to go too. Didn’t you say that once I helped you win this project, you’d formally introduce me and be with me?” Clinging to a last shred of hope, Mo Ran spoke.

“Mo Ran, let’s talk about this later.” Su Qingcheng glanced at him coolly, lips curling with a hint of mockery.

With that, she walked past him, trailing a fragrant breeze. Su Sen and Li Lan followed, saying nothing, only casting him a scornful look before departing, leaving Mo Ran alone.

Mo Ran stood in silence, not turning back, until the villa’s door slowly closed with a mechanical “click.” He finally shook his head with a bitter smile. “This was my last chance—and yours, Su Qingcheng.” Unfortunately, his words would never reach her ears.

Mo Ran quietly took up his car keys; it was late and he needed to fetch Su Qingxue, after all, he was still drawing a wage from Su Qingcheng. He didn’t look back, knowing the maids behind him watched with eyes full of disdain and contempt. Though the Su family’s recent change in attitude had made them more restrained, not interfering with his work, he couldn’t be bothered.

Returning to his basement room, Mo Ran silently changed out of his suit and into his old clothes, then stepped out the door.