"If you’re not leaving, then eat here!" Zhang Zhaoyuan plopped down on a chair, his cold gaze fixed on Bai Xiao’s table.
Why should he leave? He hadn’t done anything wrong. The one in the wrong was right in front of him—this woman.
The seven guys exchanged awkward glances.
They had been hoping to avoid a confrontation, but fate seemed to think otherwise.
The table lit up with laughter as plates of grilled lamb skewers and glasses of baijiu arrived. The boys made an effort to lighten the mood.
It seemed the atmosphere had significantly improved. Zhang Zhaoyuan no longer stared at Bai Xiao.
He Weng glanced at the group of guys. It was obvious that they were from the former Medical College, and it was equally clear they knew Bai Xiao. One particular guy’s gaze exuded outright hostility.
Hostility?
"Bai Xiao, did you get yourself into some kind of trouble at school, attracting unwanted admirers?"
It looked like someone had decided he was Bai Xiao’s rival in love.
On this end, he had already connected with several highly skilled craftsmen. The most noteworthy part was that he’d found a few like-minded designers at the design institute—young students who held limitless optimism for the future.
Combined with the seasoned expertise and meticulous craftsmanship of the older artisans, this group would form the frontline of bespoke, customized services.
He planned to conclude this trip and head to Guangcheng next, followed by Harbor City—both hotspots for customization and cutting-edge development in this niche industry.
These cities, after all, were at the forefront of trends and style.
And so his visit to Bai Xiao was a farewell of sorts.
Bai Xiao turned around just as she realized Zhang Zhaoyuan was also dining here.
She shook her head with a weary smile. "I don’t know what’s going on, but several guys at school keep sending me love letters and flowers. You’ve already noticed one among that group—I just rejected him earlier today."
She didn’t think Zhang Zhaoyuan was the type to turn to hate because of unrequited love. She could see through his character, so she wasn’t worried.
He Weng chuckled, "That guy was glaring at me like he wanted to eat me alive. He clearly thinks I’m someone significant to you. An Zhiyuan better watch out."
"It’s not a big deal; we’re all just classmates. Besides, I’ve never promised anything to him. Don’t forget, An Zhiyuan and I are married. It’s not like you can say our relationship is anything but solid, can you?" Bai Xiao frowned slightly, displeased by He Weng’s teasing, as though it implied she’d done something wrong.
"Of course it’s clear that you and An Zhiyuan share a great relationship. But it’s inevitable you’ll run into situations like this while studying here. I mean, just look at you—who could guess you’re a married woman? It’s no wonder those guys are eager to chase you. After all, ’Fair maiden, gentlemen will pursue.’
Bai Xiao laughed softly, but when she turned, her eyes locked with Zhang Zhaoyuan’s cold, piercing gaze.
She froze for a moment. Could it really be that he resented her?
But she quickly shook her head again, picking up her drink and taking a sip. Barbecue was something that had just started gaining popularity—lamb skewers were the standout trend, particularly in schools where they sold exceptionally well.
"By the way, how’s your older brother’s food factory doing these days? Last time I called my sister, she mentioned they had already started construction and purchased the latest instant noodle production line. I wonder how well their sales are going now."
He Weng burst into laughter. "How could it not be going well with the ideas you gave them? Their instant noodle orders are already booked through next year! It’s completely overwhelming. My brother and sister-in-law’s food factory has become the model enterprise in the town. Not only did it solve employment for all the workers, but compared to the old days, the factory now is practically thriving like never before."
"My brother and sister-in-law even said you’re full of brilliant ideas and quick thinking. Apparently, they’ve even given you the nickname ’The Alchemist.’ They’re just one step away from building a shrine to worship you!"