The lights suddenly dimmed, and the previously noisy atmosphere in the banquet hall gradually quieted down.
A spotlight hit precisely the center of the banquet hall, where a Steinway grand piano stood quietly, awaiting the person about to play it.
Su Liya then appeared in the spotlight. ɪꜰ ʏᴏᴜ ᴡᴀɴᴛ ᴛᴏ ʀᴇᴀᴅ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴄʜᴀᴘᴛᴇʀs, ᴘʟᴇᴀsᴇ ᴠɪsɪᴛ N0v3l.Fiɾe.net
Tonight, she chose a deep blue velvet gown, with a floor-length hem and a deep V neckline that perfectly showcased her elegant collarbone and slender neck.
And on her delicate swan-like neck was a diamond necklace that rivaled Xiao Mei E’s, adding a touch of luxury and tranquility to the usually fiery young woman.
Su Liya walked to the piano and elegantly sat down.
The hall instantly fell silent, with all eyes focused on her.
Su Liya lightly touched the keys, and notes flowed like water through her fingers.
"Li Ya can play the piano?" Chen Cheng was somewhat surprised.
Mei Xiang chuckled beside him, "Didn’t expect it, did you?"
"Usually she’s so fiery; it’s rare to see her so calm."
Mei Xiang continued, "Don’t underestimate her; Li Ya has been learning piano since childhood, with a solid foundation that’s even more impressive than mine."
Chen Cheng looked down at her, "You are the most impressive."
Mei Xiang, knowing that Chen Cheng was comforting her, couldn’t help but smile. In the dim light, she quietly hooked Chen Cheng’s large hand.
Feeling Mei Xiang’s small gesture, Chen Cheng firmly held her back.
The two stood together , until Su Liya finished her performance and rose to take a bow.
Thunderous applause erupted from the audience, and as the lights brightened again, they finally let go of their hands.
Tonight’s main attraction, Wen Shu Lin, also followed the applause and walked towards the piano.
The banquet hall became quiet once again.
"Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to CGG’s New Year Celebration."
Wen Shu Lin raised a champagne glass and said, "Tonight, I’m honored to stand here and welcome the arrival of the New Year with all of you."
She paused and glanced over the crowd below, her tone becoming more sincere, "The past year has been full of challenges and opportunities for CGG. We’ve weathered storms and reaped many rewards. None of this could have been achieved without the strong support and hard work of everyone present."
Wen Shu Lin scanned the crowd and ultimately fixed her gaze on Chen Cheng’s location,
"Especially, I want to thank Mr. Chen Cheng from Dili Private Equity. It was his immense support and assistance that enabled me to lead CGG to where we are today."
Everyone’s eyes followed Wen Shu Lin’s pointing to Chen Cheng.
Chen Cheng nodded slightly, offering a polite smile.
Wen Shu Lin withdrew her gaze and continued, "In the New Year, we will face greater challenges and opportunities. But I believe, if we work together and advance hand in hand, we will definitely overcome all difficulties and create an even more glorious future!"
She raised her champagne glass, "Let’s raise our glasses together, and wish each other success and good fortune in the New Year!"
The audience raised their glasses one after another, and the banquet hall resounded with enthusiastic applause and cheers.
At this point, Xiao Mei E returned and naturally stood beside Chen Cheng.
Chen Cheng asked with concern, "What’s wrong?"
Xiao Mei E quickly responded, "Xiao Cheng, you wouldn’t believe it, Sister Lin just introduced some members of the Female Entrepreneurs Association to me, and they invited me to join!"
"That’s a good thing."
"But I don’t understand anything!" Xiao Mei E said with difficulty, "Although Camellia bears my name, the company was started by you, and the usual business is handled by Shu Biao. I’m just a titular boss!"
"If Sister Lin hadn’t helped me just now, I would have blown my cover!"
Looking at that helpless expression, Chen Cheng smiled and said, "But the products Camellia sells are all your formulas."
Xiao Mei E slightly pouted and looked at Chen Cheng dependently, "Honestly, without you, Camellia wouldn’t be where it is today. You’re the one who should really be invited to join."
Chen Cheng shook his head, "I can’t get in."
"Why can’t you get in?"
The honest remark made Xiao Mei E laugh, and she playfully tapped Chen Cheng’s arm, teasing,
"You’re the one who can make me happy, joking at a time . But seriously, Xiao Cheng, I’m still not confident. Even though you’re backing me up, I can’t always rely on you. If I say something wrong or do something wrong in the association, it won’t just be my face at stake, but Camellia’s reputation too."
Chen Cheng collected his smile, looking at her earnestly, "Don’t worry. Since I’m supporting you in joining, I will definitely help you prepare thoroughly. In the coming days, I’ll have Shu Biao organize some management materials for you, so you can familiarize yourself when you have time. Also, try to learn from Chairman Wen; she has extensive connections and plenty of experience and can teach you many things."
Mei Xiang also encouraged her, "Sister Xiao Er, this is a great opportunity. Don’t be too anxious, just stay calm, and you’ll be fine."
For Mei Xiang, with her assets exceeding two billion, an industry association is no big deal.
If she wanted to start a company domestically, with Chen Cheng’s encouragement, the invitation might have already been sent to the young girl.
Xiao Mei E walked over to Mei Xiang, taking her hand, "Mei Xiang, you don’t know. I have no confidence! Those female bosses are all shrewd people, and I’m afraid I can’t handle them."
Mei Xiang firmly held Xiao Mei E’s hand, offering her comfort and encouragement, "Sister Xiao Er, don’t be so nervous. Actually, they are also ordinary people, with their own troubles and challenges."
She paused, "Besides, you have Brother Cheng supporting you; they don’t have that."