Urban Villain: The Game of Wealth and Women

{Chapter 55: The shadow next to the Pagani!}

Chi Qian's habit of teasing was something typical of a Libra, and Lin Yuan, also a Libra, understood it all too well. His calmness in the face of her playful antics didn't stem from a lack of response but rather an understanding of her deeper nature. He wasn't annoyed because Chi Qian's teasing wasn't about provoking anger but about inching closer to breaking out of her ethereal shell. Lin Yuan knew that every time she teased him, she was inching further away from the fairy-like persona she wore so well, stepping tentatively into the world of the ordinary. How far she would step out entirely depended on how attractive the world outside seemed to her.

For a moment, Lin Yuan was taken by surprise. He had assumed he would see Chi Qian play the game longer, yet she caught him off guard with her poise. Still, his gaze remained composed as he responded, "Miss Chi Qian's violin playing was also impeccable." His voice was calm, but his eyes held a quiet depth as he observed her, looking for any sign of vulnerability.

Lin Yuan didn't view his understanding of Chi Qian's Libra traits as a tool to give in to her whims. It wasn't about playing along; it was about understanding and holding steady. He wouldn't let her teasing throw him off course.

When Chi Qian saw Lin Yuan's eyes—unwavering and clear—she felt a spark of surprise. At first, she had expected to see a flicker of emotion, some response that hinted at her success. She was slightly taken aback when Lin Yuan's gaze remained unwavering, his calm like an unmoving lake reflecting the sky.

Yet, within her, there was a growing sense of dissatisfaction. She had anticipated that her playful jabs would unsettle him, but instead, he was as composed as ever. Her heart, so often a battleground for fleeting emotions, felt stirred. But it wasn't the kind of stirring she had hoped for. She couldn't put her finger on it, but something within her felt like it had missed its mark. For once, her typical tactics had failed, and that left her more frustrated than she cared to admit.

The music exhibition was drawing to a close. The host announced the end of the event, signaling the dispersal of the crowd. As the people filtered out, Yan Ruyue looked at Lin Yuan, who was still engaged in conversation with some of the audience members. Without a word, she turned and left, her thoughts hidden behind a veil of uncertainty.

After the exhibition, the trio—Lin Yuan, Chi Qian, and Yu Shanshan—prepared to part ways.

Lin Yuan, ever the gentleman, offered, "It's getting late. Should I accompany you both back to school?" His offer was thoughtful, as always.

Chi Qian, with her characteristic smile, remarked, "Your car only has two seats, right?"

Lin Yuan was quick to recall the sports car he had brought—the Pagani, a sleek and powerful machine, indeed, but it could only accommodate two people.

Yu Shanshan, ever the schemer, seized the moment, her eyes gleaming with mischief. "Well, I think I'll go out with some friends for a while, Brother. You can take Qian Qian back to the dorm."

Chi Qian raised an eyebrow, her smile playful yet sharp. "Which friends, Yu Shanshan? I didn't know you had plans after the exhibition. Come on, just go back with me to the dorm." Her tone was both teasing and commanding.

Lin Yuan added his voice to the matter, offering a more practical reason, "It would be best for you to return with Chi Qian. Otherwise, your mother might be upset about you staying out so late."

Yu Shanshan, unable to argue with logic, relented. However, she shot Lin Yuan a playful glance that seemed to suggest she was offering them a chance for some private time together. Lin Yuan, unbothered, pretended not to notice.

As they were about to part, Chi Qian's voice called out. "Young Master Lin, would you mind leaving your contact information?"

Yu Shanshan, ever the observer, squealed, "Wow! This is the first time I've seen Qian Qian ask anyone for their contact info!"

Chi Qian, with a swift movement, knocked Yu Shanshan on the head, but then explained, "It's not what you think. I simply want to thank you for coming today. I'd like to invite you to dinner sometime to show my appreciation."

Lin Yuan, with a genuine smile, replied, "Of course, I'd be happy to."

They exchanged contact details, and after a final wave of goodbyes, they went their separate ways.

Just as Lin Yuan was about to leave, a young girl appeared out of nowhere, running toward him. She was breathless, her cheeks flushed from the exertion. "You… Hello! My name is Qingtong, and I just wanted to say I like you! I've written a letter for you," she said in a rush, tucking the letter into Lin Yuan's hands before quickly retreating.

Lin Yuan's heart stirred. He couldn't help but smile as he looked at the girl. Her courage was admirable, and despite the brief encounter, he found himself impressed by the sweetness and sincerity in her actions. Even though only part of her face was visible, her eyes held an undeniable warmth.

In that moment, Lin Yuan couldn't help but appreciate the girl's bravery. After all, with his charm now enhanced by the gifts of fate, most women would shy away from approaching him directly. They admired him from afar, believing themselves unworthy of his attention.

But this girl was different—she had the courage to step forward and offer him her heart in the form of a letter.

Lin Yuan tucked the letter into his pocket with a sense of quiet gratitude. He could tell she was shy, but there was something incredibly pure about her gesture. With that, he turned and walked out of the exhibition hall.

As he neared his Pagani, the cool night air brushing against his skin, he noticed a shadow lurking near his car. His steps faltered for just a moment, curiosity piquing his interest.

*****

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