Evening fell, and the Zhao mansion buzzed with guests. Expensive cars lined the driveway, and laughter floated through the glittering halls. The banquet was filled with influential families, young heirs, and ladies in shimmering gowns. all gathered to celebrate Zhao Rourou's birthday.
At the top of the stairs, Zhao Yuexin descended slowly.
Every step was deliberate. Her gown was not modest it was a striking crimson silk, hugging her curves like fire, paired with delicate pearl earrings. Her hair fell in soft waves, and her painted lips carried a dangerous allure.
Conversations faltered. Heads turned.
"Is that… Miss Yuexin?" someone whispered.
"Impossible. She was always so quiet. How...how could she look like this?"
"She looks even more radiant than the birthday girl!"
At the center of attention, Zhao Rourou froze, her practiced smile twitching. She had worn a pastel blue gown, delicate and sweet. But next to Yuexin's blazing presence, she seemed… dull.
Yuexin's eyes swept over the crowd, meeting Su Wei's gaze briefly. The man who would betray her. In this life, she would never give him the chance.
She smiled faintly, then walked straight past him without pause....as though he were a stranger.
The subtle dismissal struck him harder than a slap. His lips parted, but Yuexin was already moving toward the crowd of wealthy heirs, chatting gracefully as though she were born to be admired.
Rourou's hands tightened around her wine glass. "Cousin… why are you wearing that dress?" she asked sweetly, though her eyes were sharp with venom.
TO BE CONTINUED