Chapter 160: Getting Closer

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

Two days later, the highly anticipated annual National Piano Competition award ceremony unfolded at Qingyou Theater as scheduled.

In the morning, a swarm of reporters eagerly gathered at the theater’s entrance, aiming to capture close-ups of this year’s most talked-about competitor: Cheng Yuqi, the daughter of the country’s wealthiest man.

Cheng Yuqi, born into affluence and blessed with striking beauty, had been a virtuoso in music, chess, calligraphy, and painting since her early years. Countless admirers viewed her as the epitome of a life winner.

Recognizing her own family’s less privileged background, Fang Jiayi diligently prepared for the event, waking up early to enhance her appearance and outshine her rival.

Over the past two days, Fang Liguo liquidated all the family cars, pooling additional funds to acquire a luxurious Maybach S68o valued at seven million yuan to support his daughter.

On the ceremony day, he meticulously dressed the driver in an expensive suit and white gloves before personally opening the Maybach’s door for Fang Jiayi.

Stepping out of the opulent vehicle at the theater’s entrance, Fang Jiayi exuded elegance in her gown, accompanied by a radiant smile that captivated the attention of reporters who eagerly waved at her.

The journalists were taken aback.

“Whose daughter is this? She seems quite ostentatious.”

“Absolutely! Her gown, jewelry, and high heels are all FY. It must be a fortune!” Yanli’s designs typically ranged from 500,000 to 800,000 yuan, with premium selections surpassing a million yuan.

“Arriving in a Maybach S680, she must hail from an affluent family.”

“I believe she’s the runner-up this year, Fang Jiayi, the daughter of Fang Liguo, the wealthiest man in Haicheng City.”

“Oh, her? She’s undeniably attractive, though her face appears slightly swollen.”

Fang Jiayi’s expression tensed upon hearing the comment. Just two days prior, Tang Nan’s assault had left her face swollen, a condition persisting until this very moment. Despite the visible aftermath, she maintained a smiling facade, determined to present her more attractive side to the public.

Meanwhile, Fang Liguo emerged from the car, impeccably dressed in a suit and leather shoes, projecting an air of sophistication. Gently bending down, he retrieved Song Ling from the vehicle with the grace of a gentleman.

Song Ling, seldom seen in such resplendence, adorned herself with an expensive peacock necklace featuring small emeralds on its empty tail, exuding an aura of opulence. Her meticulous makeup and professionally styled hair further accentuated an air of superiority and arrogance.

The assembled reporters eagerly captured moments of the wealthy family of three, acknowledging their status as Haicheng City’s wealthiest individuals. The family’s attire sparked numerous comments, generating considerable attention from online audiences who reveled in such affluent topics.

On the other side, Fang Yuan reclined in the luxurious RV, casually attending to personal matters on her phone. After a brief pause, she instructed, “You all can disembark first.” Keenly aware that her identity remained undisclosed, she sought to avoid attracting attention by disembarking alongside Cheng Ye and Qiao Xinhui. Revealing her status could lead to complications, both with the media and potential adversaries in the Triangle District. Maintaining a low profile was essential to safeguarding not only her interests but also those of her family.

Qiao Xinhui expressed a twinge of concern for Fang Yuan’s situation, prompting her reassurance. “It’s alright,” Fang Yuan comforted. Keeping a low profile was a strategic choice, recognizing the potential repercussions of undue attention.

While Fang Jiayi, Fang Liguo, and Song Ling basked in the glory momentarily, their joy was short-lived. The reporters abruptly dispersed, redirecting their focus to a luxurious RV parked at the theater’s entrance. As the chauffeur, dressed in an upscale uniform, stepped out and courteously opened the door, all attention shifted to Cheng Yuqi.

Cheng Yuqi gracefully descended the RV’s stairs, each of her expressions flawlessly executed – a testament to her upbringing in a wealthy family.

Being of a different echelon entirely, she effortlessly eclipsed Fang Jiayi’s attempts to stand out with a multimillion-yuan ensemble. Fang Jiayi’s realization hit hard as she recognized the depth of the divide.

Cheng Yuqi’s attire, hairstyle, and jewelry appeared effortlessly natural, her overall demeanor radiating a superior charm. Even the chauffeur’s poise surpassed the last-minute hire that Fang Jiayi’s family settled for, despite the latter being clad in high-end attire. The disparity was stark, making Fang Jiayi’s choices seem less presentable in comparison.

Reporters swiftly gathered around Cheng Yuqi, and shortly after, Cheng Ye and Qiao Xinhui disembarked, showcasing their affection and drawing considerable attention.

Aware that her family paled in comparison, Fang Jiayi awkwardly forced a smile, suggesting, “Dad, Mom, perhaps we should head in first?”

Fang Liguo, cognizant of the social hierarchy at play, recognized that he was not on Cheng Ye’s level. He hesitated to approach and risk being ignored, thus saving face in front of the crowd. Opting for discretion, he entered the theater with Song Ling and Fang Jiayi, harboring hopes of finding an opportune moment to establish a connection inside. After all, Cheng Ye was the country’s wealthiest individual, and seizing such a golden opportunity was imperative in a sea of individuals vying for his attention..