NOVEL NEXT Chapter 21 - Time's Up
The day passed smoothly, and tomorrow would finally be Sunday—time for a much-needed break.
As high school students, they had just one day of rest each week.
With his schoolbag slung over his shoulder, Jiang Hao purchased a small gift box before promptly returning home.
Upon arriving, he changed into a new tracksuit.
From the System Space, he retrieved an exquisite jade phoenix pendant, placing it into the prepared gift box.
“This gift should capture Jade King's attention and help me establish a connection with this influential figure in the jade realm. It will pave the way for my future entry into that realm!” Jiang Hao mused.
He contemplated these thoughts inwardly.
After informing his parents, he took the invitation and headed to the address specified.
Upon arrival, Jiang Hao presented the invitation and was directed to the banquet by a waiter.
Inside, he realized that the banquet was divided into two sections—one for young individuals like Jiang Hao and another for prominent figures from various fields, emanating an air of significance.
By now, many guests had arrived. Men were dressed in sleek suits, while women adorned elegant evening gowns. They held tall glasses, engaged in animated conversations.
At this point, Jiang Hao awkwardly recognized he was the sole individual in sportswear.
In such an elegant setting, his sportswear stood out conspicuously, attracting curious glances from many.
Feeling ill at ease in this setting, Jiang Hao sought out a less conspicuous corner to settle down.
Time progressed, and the clock struck eight. The guest of honor for the evening finally made her entrance.
She wore a dazzling purple evening gown that shimmered like golden stars in the night sky.
Amidst the radiance of her attire, Soong Wan exuded an even greater sense of grace and maturity.
Her angelic countenance put most of the other girls present in her shadow.
Accompanying her were Jade King and his wife.
Upon Soong Wan's arrival, a crowd naturally gathered around her.
Right then, the middle-aged man beside Soong Wan stepped forward.
“I, Soong Wanzhong, extend a warm welcome to all of you on the occasion of my daughter Soong Wan's 18th birthday banquet…!”
Jiang Hao stood in a corner, observing. This marked his first time getting close to Jade King and Soong Wanzhong.
After Soong Wanzhong concluded his opening speech, he handed the spotlight to a young man and proceeded to the other side where prominent figures were congregating.
At this juncture, the attendees began presenting birthday gifts to Soong Wan!
Jiang Hao glanced at the elegantly packaged gift boxes, then looked at the one in his hand. He reckoned the gift boxes were already impressive, though they paled in comparison to others'.
Nonetheless, Jiang Hao paid no heed, as the contents of these gifts weren't ordinary!
“Time to present the gifts. If Miss Wan'er doesn't inspect them, how can I capture Jade King's attention?”
Jiang Hao's gaze shifted between Jade King, Soong Wanzhong, who sat amidst other prominent figures, and Soong Wan, who was encircled by a throng of well-wishers. He delved into deep contemplation.
On another side, a swarm of young individuals vied to offer gifts. Soong Wan returned their smiles and gratitude, one by one.
However, her attention appeared divided. Her gaze roamed around as if in search of something.
Subsequently, Soong Wan spotted Jiang Hao sitting on a sofa in the corner. Clad in sportswear, he seemed out of place amid the grandeur.
Jiang Hao also locked eyes with her. Their gazes met, and in an instant, Soong Wan's smile blossomed like a flower.
Soong Wan graciously thanked the crowd and extricated herself from the cluster of young men. She strode directly toward Jiang Hao.
“I didn't expect you to come!”
Soong Wan addressed him with a grin.
Jiang Hao found himself momentarily entranced by the resplendent Soong Wan, yet he swiftly regained his composure and replied.
“Why wouldn't I?”
“Here I am!”
Jiang Hao retrieved a neatly wrapped small gift and handed it to Soong Wan along with his heartfelt wishes.
“Happy birthday!”
Soong Wan accepted the gift and thanked him with genuine delight.
“Thank you. I still owe you for saving my life. Let me repay you in happiness!”
Amid their pleasant conversation, an incongruous voice suddenly cut in.
“Wan'er, who's this?”
At this juncture, a young master appeared beside Soong Wan.
Jiang Hao found himself somewhat taken aback.
This content is taken from .𝗰𝗼𝐦