Chapter 164: Tainted This Dress
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
Fang Jiayi initially believed that Chairman Mu was familiar with her, but her hopes dwindled as she witnessed Mu’s countenance turning cold.
Although baffled by the sudden change, Fang Jiayi maintained a smile and said, “Chairman Mu, I truly admire your music. I was wondering if 1 could have the chance to learn from you?”
Chairman Mu raised an eyebrow with curiosity. “Which of my songs do you like?”
Fang Jiayi was caught off guard. Panic set in—how could she know which song Chairman Mu had composed? All she knew was that Mu was exceptionally talented, achieving fame at a young age and serving as an inspiration for many piano enthusiasts.
Around them, others began sharing their favorite Chairman Mu compositions. “I adore ‘Autumn Dream’ and ‘Sunset.’ ‘First Encounter’ is my personal favorite. It captures the surprise, joy, and sweetness of suddenly meeting a destined person on a sunny afternoon—absolutely wonderful!”
” ‘Summer Flower’ transports me to a floral sea, even evoking the scent of flowers as the musical notes dance!”
“I’m enchanted by ‘Nightsea’…”
As the crowd praised Chairman Mu’s works, it became apparent that Fang Jiayi couldn’t name a single piece despite her earlier claim. Mocking remarks surfaced, “You have the audacity to say you admire Chairman Mu? You can’t even mention one of her songs!”
“I know all 133 compositions by Chairman Mu like the back of my hand. Can you say the same?”
“I truly don’t understand how you managed to get second place!”
Fang Jiayi, overwhelmed with embarrassment, blushed and apologized, “I’m sorry, Chairman Mu. 1 was just so thrilled to see you that I forgot…”
Chairman Mu paid her no heed and turned away.
Fang Jiayi hastily exclaimed, “Chairman Mu, 1 genuinely admire you. I wonder if there’s a chance for you to mentor me exclusively. I’ll commit to working hard and diligently follow your guidance every day!” She hoped Mu Youlan would be moved by her determination.
However, Mu Youlan discerned a different motivation in the girl’s eyes. She responded coldly, “Sorry, I don’t take on disciples.”
Surrounding onlookers were taken aback. They hadn’t anticipated such a direct rejection from Chairman Mu. It seemed evident that Mu didn’t favor this girl, especially considering she couldn’t even identify Mu’s compositions despite securing second place in the National Piano Competition.
Fang Jiayi felt deeply embarrassed. Not ready to concede, she called out, “Does Chairman Mu have someone else in mind?”
Mu Youlan paused, turning her gaze toward Fang Jiayi. “Indeed, there is another candidate. But even if there weren’t, I wouldn’t choose you.”
Fang Jiayi’s face paled. “May I ask why?”
“Because you’re from the Fang family, and I don’t like you.” Mu Youlan’s words were direct, and her sharp gaze assessed Fang Jiayi’s attire. “Additionally, you’re not suited for this dress and jewelry. Yanli is a unique designer, and you’re compromising her work.”
The spectators sighed in agreement. Looking at Fang Jiayi anew, it was apparent that her appearance clashed with the outfit, creating a discordant impression.
As Mu Youlan walked away, the crowd dispersed as well.
Song Ling, standing nearby, was stupefied. After a moment, she exclaimed, “What kind of ridiculous chairman is this? Speaking to a child like that! This is unacceptable!”
“Mom, I’m fine…” Fang Jiayi retained some self-awareness. “It’s my fault for not being able to inform you about her work. It’s all on me…”
“Even if you didn’t mention it, she shouldn’t have humiliated you in public! After all, you still secured second place in the competition!” Song Ling glared at Mu Youlan’s retreating figure indignantly. “She even claimed you tainted this outfit. Who does she think she is? Our family is affluent, and we’re more than willing to purchase clothes and jewelry designed by Yanli.”
“Mom, let’s go…” Fang Jiayi preferred not to prolong the embarrassment.
“If she doesn’t want to accept you as her disciple, we won’t bother trying to be her disciple!” Song Ling gripped Fang Jiayi’s hand and returned to the audience. Along the way, she muttered, “Everyone knows that the most influential figure in the piano world is Elder Qian.
We’ll become disciples of Elder Qian in the future!”
“…” Fang Jiayi wanted to point out that given Elder Qian’s stature, numerous aspirants sought to be his disciple. Not only her, even Cheng Yuqi might struggle to catch his attention! However, she refrained from expressing this and quietly resumed her seat, feeling a tinge of sadness.
At that moment, Fang Jiayi’s friend, Bi Qinghui, inquired with curiosity, “Mrs. Fang, 1 observed Chairman Mu chatting with Jiayi from a distance. Has Chairman Mu taken an interest in Jiayi and considered taking her as a disciple?”
Being too far away, Bi Qinghui couldn’t discern their conversation, only witnessing a crowd surrounding Mu Youlan and Fang Jiayi.
Fang Jiayi, already embarrassed, felt her expression crumble at the question.
The situation became even more awkward for her..