Chapter 93: Auntie, didn’t you recognize me?
Jarvis, who had never seen her smoke, said calmly, "I believe I’ve seen your true self. I’m not a fool; four years is enough time to understand someone. Xu, you’re the most elegant and insightful businesswoman I’ve ever encountered. You value rules and adhere to them. You cherish your reputation. You’re passionate yet gentle, approachable, and unfailingly polite... In essence, feelings are inexplicable. I doubt I could ever find another woman like you."
"That’s why I suggested you see me clearly before you talk about your love for freedom."
Xu Si’s captivating peach-blossom eyes softened slightly. She downed the champagne that ought to have been sipped slowly, then tapped her empty bottle against his glass, a carefree smile playing on her lips.
"Setting other matters aside, Jarvis, when it comes to abiding by rules, you seem to be mistaken. I never play by the rules."
She pressed the cigarette, still more than half-unsmoked, into the ashtray. A faint lipstick smudge marked the white filter. Then, she added, "Pardon me, but may I use your banquet to find some potential business partners?"
Jarvis, looking somewhat bewildered yet thoughtful, shrugged. "Of course. I hope you enjoy yourself. I also need some time to ponder exactly how you don’t play by the rules."
Xu Si gave an apologetic smile and departed with Anshi.
A hint of avarice and ambition flickered in the corners of her peach-blossom eyes. She headed straight for President Chen, the owner of the land.
The grand chandelier, a substitute for the night’s moon, continuously bathed the hall in daylight-like brightness.
Anshi, holding Xu Si’s handbag and observing her expression, whispered, "Miss, I’ve just made some inquiries. This President Chen is quite influential. He has a reserved personality and is very cautious, almost exclusively socializing within his own circle. He’s here today with a friend. If we approach him directly to buy the land, we might be brushed off before we even get a chance to offer him a drink. Do we need to prepare anything?"
"No need. Brains and a good drinking capacity will suffice. The land he owns is what I want; I have to try, no matter what."
Xu Si paused, set down her champagne flute, and switched to a stronger vodka. She then stepped outside and picked a particularly unique-looking Hydrangea blossom from beneath an ornamental tree.