Celia was pregnant and wanted nothing more than to stay in her room, finish her draft, and go to bed early.
But Xia Xiaofu was relentless. She leaned close, her eyes sparkling mischievously, and pressed her hand to Celia's stomach."Godson, let's go see the kingdom your father has built for you."
Celia's heart lurched in terror. She slapped a hand over Xia Xiaofu's mouth, nearly falling to her knees in panic.Her best friend was going to spill her secret one of these days!
…
Despite Celia's protests, Xia Xiaofu dragged her down to the underground bar of the Fu Hotel. The moment they stepped in, they spotted several familiar faces. Yara Lu and Xia Ling were there, surrounded by wealthy heirs and young socialites. Laughter and chatter filled the air.
The crowd quickly noticed their arrival. Xia Xiaofu, the dazzling socialite, had always been adored by the elite circle of the imperial capital. Someone called out excitedly, "Miss Xia, it's really you! Come join us."
With Celia in tow, Xia Xiaofu stepped forward, instantly drawing even more attention."Oh, Celia, you're here too!" someone exclaimed.
Noticing the shift in focus, Xia Ling hurried forward, smoothing her outfit with a deliberate flourish."Sister, do you think this outfit looks good on me?"
Xia Xiaofu gave her a once-over and curved her red lips into a teasing smile."Not bad. That's CC's new Noble Lady set, isn't it?"
Xia Ling's eyes lit up. "Sister, you've got sharp eyes. Yes, I'm wearing CC's latest Noble Lady collection, designed by Little Buddha himself."
The socialites gasped.
In seconds, they crowded around, gazing at Xia Ling with open envy."Lingling, you look amazing! And you're wearing the latest Little Buddha design?""I wanted that piece too, but it's a limited edition—impossible to get!""Lingling, how on earth did you manage to get this?"
Xia Ling, glowing with pride, leaned closer to Yara Lu."Yaoyao bought it for me. She's always so kind and generous."
The flattery came rolling in."Wow, Yaoyao, you're such a generous friend.""Our Yaoyao really is a beautiful, kind little princess."
Every word was exactly what Yara Lu wanted to hear. She lifted her chin proudly, her gaze drifting smugly toward Celia and Xia Xiaofu.
The two women exchanged a glance, sharing a knowing smile. They could tell at a glance that Xia Ling's so-called "limited edition" dress… well, let's just say the truth would surface soon enough.
Before the thought could linger, someone shouted, "Mr. Fu is here!"
Celia's eyes lifted instinctively. Nathaniel Fu's tall, commanding figure strode into view.
"Nancheng, you're here." Yara Lu immediately slipped her arm through his, her voice sweet and affectionate.
Fresh from the Fu Corporation offices, Nathaniel was dressed in a custom-tailored black suit, sharp and immaculate. He glanced at Yara with polite warmth."Yes."
Celia lowered her eyes, unwilling to watch their display. But beside her, Xia Xiaofu nudged her playfully and whispered with a wicked grin, "Cici, Mr. Fu looks all serious and restrained with everyone else. How come he drops the 'abstinence act' when it's with you?"
Celia: "…"
Xiaofu, could you please stop talking?
"Since Mr. Fu is here and everyone's gathered, let's make it interesting. How about a round of Truth or Dare?" someone suggested eagerly.
Truth or Dare?
Celia stiffened. She knew the game all too well—and she wanted no part of it. Shaking her head, she turned to leave.
But before she could slip away, a small, determined hand grabbed hers and pulled her back into a seat.
Xia Xiaofu grinned brightly."Come on, Cici. Play!"