Cen Chen held a glass of wine in hand, forced into the role of a social facilitator as he interacted with both familiar and unfamiliar faces. In reality, he was an introvert, too self-conscious to engage, only managing to awkwardly nod at others when they approached.
Meanwhile, Cen Chen stood out awkwardly in a sea of well-dressed guests in his formal suit, exuding an air of success coupled with a hint of coldness. He remained isolated in a corner, where few dared to approach him.
Han Hongxin could no longer contain himself and, after cautiously checking that no one was watching, whispered, “Do you really want to meet the real Wang Fengye Chou?”
Cen Chen instinctively replied, “Yes.”
“Hiss,” Han Hongxin inhaled sharply, not bothering to hide his excitement as he took out his phone.
Just as Cen Chen was about to explain himself, a group of people approached. Leading the pack were Bai Li and Lu Yingmeng, who were equally popular in both the game and real life.
Bai Li greeted Han Hongxin with familiarity, “It’s always better to meet in person, so you are the leader of Xiyao Sect?”
Getting a closer look, Bai Li recognized Cen Chen and seemed startled, “You are… Cen Chen?”
Though Bai Li claimed to know the owner of the gaming duo, he really only caught a glimpse while socializing, as his father had a business relationship with them.
Lu Yingmeng seemed to be there to apologize, “Mr. Cen, I had no idea you were my teacher’s wife in the game, Yuangu Mountain Cen. How is your relationship with him these days?”
“Hello, I am Cen Chen. And you are?” Cen Chen stood politely to shake Bai Li’s hand while looking at Lu Yingmeng with a puzzled expression.
How did this woman recognize his identity with just one glance?
To his surprise, she seemed to remember something he had deemed unimportant. Was she the only one who remembered what happened back at the office?
Lu Yingmeng felt a surge of anger. She forced a smile and said, “Teacher’s Wife, I’m Yu Yu Yingmeng. I caused some misunderstandings in the game earlier, and I thought I could clear them up since we finally meet.”
“To make it better, I just found out that you and I work for the same company; what a coincidence!”
As more people entered, the crew’s attention shifted to them. The snippet of their conversation drew curious onlookers.
Wow! What a captivating love triangle!
Those in the group were all familiar with the relationship dynamics, including the absent Wang Fengye Chou, and Lu Yingmeng’s sudden appearance couldn’t help but stir up speculation.
Han Hongxin was taken aback, realizing that this love-struck fellow wanting to meet his boss was Yuangu Mountain Cen. Given that the two had a romantic relationship in the game, why would she seek out him to make contact? Was it because his boss, the notorious scumbag, had forgotten about his weak and helpless partner?
“Isn’t Wang Fengye Chou supposed to be here?”
“Why isn’t he coming?”
“I heard from Xi Yao that he had some company ceremony to attend.”
Surprisingly, it was Cen Chen; he hadn’t expected to find such a twist amidst what seemed like a casual partner choice.
Bai Li shot a glance at Cen Chen and feigned surprise, “Your romantic partner Wang Fengye Chou hasn’t arrived? Everyone seems to be anticipating his presence?”
Those present who had romantic interests in the game were mostly coupled up already. Wang Fengye Chou and Yuangu Mountain Cen were known figures in the gaming world, thanks to their classic exploits.
When the game couple suddenly went quiet after being scrutinized, their absence sparked a wider array of rumors.
Lu Yingmeng added concern, “I hope it’s not what people are saying?”
Han Zhiye noticed the malicious undertones in the crowd’s chatter and frowned, stepping in. “Wang Fengye Chou isn’t that kind of person. I know him; he didn’t come because of work.”
“He said he had business with the Shuangxing Company, so isn’t Yuangu Mountain Cen one of theirs? We’re just trying to figure out if that’s true or not?”
Han Hongxin turned to look at Cen Chen; it seemed their company had no partnership with Shuangxing. What was going on here?
Though these people were practically strangers talking behind screens, the dynamic changed dramatically when up close and personal.
“I heard that Wang Fengye Chou is a catfisher who uses someone else’s photos for online dating?”
“Catfisher?”
The comment triggered widespread gossip, even drawing a surprised reaction from Bai Li, “What? He used someone else’s photos for online dating?”
“Yeah, I heard his photos and background matched that of a gaming streamer!”
“Using online photos to deceive people, no wonder he doesn’t dare show up!”
“Thank goodness I didn’t add him; I used to think quite highly of him.”
Bai Li observed the unfolding drama and attempted to ease the tension, “Alright, I believe Mr. Cen wouldn’t do something so foolish. Let’s not bring it up anymore.”
Seeing how ridiculous the discussion had gotten, Cen Chen couldn’t take it anymore. He had never even seen a photo of Wang Fengye Chou; the absurdity of being labeled as a catfisher made him feel like a fool in front of everyone. He muttered, “Excuse me,” and hurriedly left.
Cen Chen was not particularly angry; he just felt uncomfortable with people judging someone they had never met. It was unbearable to remain there, so he decided to step outside for some fresh air.
Han Hongxin wanted to defend him but felt powerless; there were too many people to voice his thoughts. All he could do was watch Cen Chen’s retreating figure while sending a message to Ye Qiu: [Boss, hurry, your wife has run away!!!]
Just then, Ye Qiu stepped out of the elevator and felt his phone vibrate. Checking it, he saw it was indeed Han Hongxin’s message.
[You go after him!]
[He really ran away, and I can’t catch up!]
While Ye Qiu replied, he collided with Cen Chen, who was briskly walking down, both of them not expecting this encounter.
Bam!
Seeing Cen Chen crash into him, Ye Qiu raised an eyebrow, “Running into you again?”
Finding someone unexpectedly while on the lookout felt oddly satisfying.
Cen Chen appeared much slimmer than the last time they met, looking like an arrow poised to launch, sharp but on the verge of breaking under pressure.