Li Ze remained indifferent, unsurprised by their demeanor.

"Liu Mengyu, the young lady of the Liu family."

In Haiching City, the Li family had quietly risen to become the leading family, with the only other family capable of challenging them being the equally powerful Han family. The Han family had always been at odds with the Li family, and in recent years, their conflicts had become increasingly public.

In such circumstances, smaller families had to make their choices—align with the Li family or the Han family. The Liu family, a significant presence in Haiching City with assets nearing billions, couldn't compare to the top-tier Li and Han families but was still perceived as a formidable force by the common folk.

And the Liu family is a staunch supporter of the Han family.

Under these circumstances, Liu Mengyu naturally wouldn't show Li Ze any goodwill. Of course, she couldn't afford to be too disrespectful either—if she angered the Li family, the Han family might not be able to protect her.

Moreover, the Liu family had a substantial role in the book. Liu Ruiyan, the patriarch of the Liu family, had been saved by Ye Tian's master in his early years, owing his life to the master's extraordinary medical skills.

However, Liu Ruinian suffered from a rare and stubborn illness that couldn't be cured overnight; it required intervention over long intervals to eradicate completely.

Ye Tian's master had also promised to handle this matter.

Now, many years later, Ye Tian, his proud disciple, had completed his studies and descended from the mountains. Part of his motivation was to explore the world and make a name for himself. Another part was to fulfill his master's commitment to completely cure Liu Ruinian's illness.

This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

Therefore, Liu Ruinian showed great respect and hospitality towards Ye Tian. After all, Ye Tian's master had once saved his life, and curing his illness completely would require Ye Tian's intervention once again.

Liu Ruinian also intended to matchmake his granddaughter Liu Mengyu with Ye Tian, hoping to bring him into the Liu family's fold.

Li Ze reviewed the information in his mind once more, then refocused on Liu Mengyu. He asked knowingly, "So? Miss Liu, what are you doing here so late at night?"

"Waiting for someone. It's none of Young Master Li's concern, right?" Liu Mengyu replied curtly, but just mentioning it made her feel increasingly irritated.

That bastard, Ye Tian!

"Oh, waiting for someone? Indeed, it has nothing to do with me. I was just curious..." Li Ze chuckled lightly. "By the way, I just witnessed quite a scene in the lobby. A pickpocket was caught red-handed by the police and taken away. Haha, quite entertaining..."

"It's a pity Miss Zhao didn't see it herself."

At these words, Liu Mengyu's expression darkened, becoming even more unpleasant.

Combining Li Ze's words with the information she had just received, she immediately connected it to Ye Tian!

Initially, she thought he might have inadvertently gotten involved in some incident and was taken away for questioning. But to be caught stealing?

Is this the same Ye Tian her grandfather had always boasted about being so talented and outstanding? A supposed miracle doctor?

Doing such a thing, stealing in public like this!

Liu Mengyu felt her anger rise.

"Grandfather must have been deceived. That scoundrel should just stay put in the inspection bureau!"

Ding! Antagonist value +200! Protagonist's luck value -200!

Li Ze revealed a hint of satisfaction with a smile.

Antagonist value successfully obtained!

"I came all the way here mainly for this, didn't I?"

"This Liu Mengyu is one of Ye Tian's ambiguous harem members in the plot," Li Ze glanced at the dark-faced Liu Mengyu.

Although she initially disliked Ye Tian and held great animosity towards him, as Ye Tian rose and under the influence of the protagonist's halo, Liu Mengyu gradually changed her attitude and was included in the harem.

"But now, under my influence, Liu Mengyu's attitude towards Ye Tian is even more hostile than before. Ye Tian may not have a chance anymore..."

Once again, harvesting a wave of antagonist value.

Li Ze felt great in his mood.

At ease