Li Ze walked towards the center of the hall.

Standing there were two men and a woman, all dressed in splendor and exuding an aura of authority.

Naturally, one of the men and the woman were Li Ze's parents, Li Ancheng and Zhao Huifen.

The other, a middle-aged man of robust build, was the current head of the Song family and Wang Jingjing's father, Wang Fugui.

"Dad, Mom." Li Ze strode forward, greeting Li Ancheng and Zhao Huifen first.

"Ah, Ze is here," Wang Fugui coughed twice, speaking with visible pallor on his face.

"Wang Uncle." Li Ze showed concern. "How have you been feeling lately?"

Wang Fugui waved his hand dismissively.

"The same old, no improvement. Just hanging onto life, wouldn't be surprised if the heavens decide to take me any day."

Li Ze's eyes flickered slightly as he smiled. "Wang Uncle, there's no need to be so pessimistic."

"Exactly, Wang, on this joyous day, why speak such gloomy words?" Li Ancheng and Zhao Huifen also said.

Wang Fugui chuckled softly. "I know my own health, don't worry about me."

During the conversation among the few, the hall suddenly fell silent, followed by a stir of voices. It was because a figure emerged from the side corridor.

It was Wang Jingjing.

Tonight, she wore a black evening gown adorned with faint star patterns, a golden ribbon cinching her waist to perfection. Under the shimmering light of the amethyst chandelier, her phoenix-like eyes reflected a bewitching glow, enhancing her breathtakingly beautiful features with captivating allure.

Stolen novel; please report.

Beneath that stunning appearance, even the guests couldn't help but hold their breath in awe. Envy filled the eyes of the women present, and a hint of inferiority emerged among them. In comparison, they felt like mere ordinary fans, unworthy of attention.

As for the young wealthy second generation who had come along with their uncles and fathers, they were abruptly jolted out of their stupor by their own elders forcefully pushing their heads down.

At this moment, they broke out in a cold sweat.

Could they afford to keep staring at the Li family's young lady? Especially on an occasion like today!

If their momentary lapse had been noticed, it wouldn't just be their own downfall, but possibly spell disaster for their entire family.

"Come, come, Jingjing, come over here," Li Ancheng and Zhao Huifen couldn't stop smiling, thoroughly pleased with their future daughter-in-law.

However, Li Ze frowned inwardly.

"Wang Jingjing is too good at disguising herself. She has everyone fooled, even Ye Tian fell for it," he thought silently.

"Ze, why are you still standing there? Today is the day you two officially announce your engagement," Zhao Huifen urged.

Li Ze collected his thoughts and walked over.

"Now is not the time to confront her openly. We need to patiently wait for the right opportunity," he resolved.

Meanwhile, Wang Jingjing smiled gracefully.

Elegant, dignified, and polite, she appeared faultless.

Yet her eyes betrayed a cold calculation.

"I've already had someone investigate him, but found nothing useful. What does this guy really know?" she pondered.

And so, the two scheming individuals exchanged a glance, each revealing an innocuous smile.

At the same time, on a high-speed train heading towards Haiqing City, a cute and lively girl sat in her seat reading a book. Suddenly, a clear voice came from beside her.

"Excuse me, miss, is the seat next to you taken? Would you mind if I sit here?"

The girl turned her head to look. Standing next to her was a handsome young man, around twenty years old, with a gentle smile. He wore a white shirt and slightly faded jeans, dressed plainly yet exuding a special charm.

The girl's heart fluttered slightly, her cheeks turning a faint shade of red.

"Um... sure, you can."

"Thank you."

The young man sat down beside the girl, politely smiling, and said, "Hello, my name is Ye Tian. And you?"

The antagonist... oh, I mean, the protagonist makes an appearance!