Chapter 170 Intertwined

The banquet today was held for Xing Zheng, and most of the guests were from the industry. Attention quickly focused on him and Jiang Chubi. Lin Mei overheard someone nearby describing them as a "talented couple" and "a match made in heaven."

Today, as usual, Xing Zheng was impeccably dressed in a black suit, even his cuffs were custom-made. He stood tall with an extraordinary presence. The black suit was the most suitable attire for him, fitting his sturdy physique and exuding an aura of nobility and restraint.

Jiang Chubi, on the other hand, wore a red dress with an off-the-shoulder design that subtly revealed her shapely shoulders. The necklace she wore around her neck was from the same series as Xing Zheng's cufflinks. Although they weren't wearing matching outfits, the subtle coordination made them appear even more "in love."

Seeing his daughter and son-in-law, Jiang Fu walked over. Zhao Jianghe pulled Lin Mei aside and said, "Let's go say hello too."

Lin Mei's lips moved, and before she could refuse, Zhao Jianghe led her forward to greet Xing Zheng and Jiang Chubi. The moment Jiang Chubi saw Lin Mei, she secretly glanced at Xing Zheng.

Xing Zheng's expression was as usual, cold and distant. His gaze briefly lingered on Lin Mei before he withdrew it, as if looking at a stranger.

Zhao Jianghe smiled upon seeing this and said to Xing Zheng, "Ah Zheng, congratulations."

Xing Zheng nodded, "Thank you."

"Lin Mei, why aren't you speaking? Are you still nervous seeing Ah Zheng?" Zhao Jianghe gently patted Lin Mei's shoulder, teasing her. "It seems Ah Zheng is very serious at work, and you're too afraid to even greet him in private."

"Not at all. Congratulations to Mr. Xing and Miss Jiang," Lin Mei said with a smile, offering her blessings to the couple. Her tone was polite, no different from how she spoke to clients. In such an occasion, one should control their emotions. Her past relationship with Xing Zheng did not entitle her to have any.

Xing Zheng, as usual, ignored Lin Mei and spoke to Zhao Jianghe, "Please bear with us if there are any shortcomings in the hospitality."

"We're all family, no need to be so formal," Zhao Jianghe said with a friendly smile, like an elder brother. "You and Chubi should go to the front. It's about to begin."

Xing Zheng and Jiang Chubi left together, their arms tightly linked. As they passed Lin Mei, they stirred up a breeze. Lin Mei caught the familiar, slightly damp scent of cypress, which mixed with Jiang Chubi's perfume, creating a slightly pungent aroma.

Once all the guests had arrived, the banquet began. Lin Mei and Zhao Jianghe took seats in the front row. After the host warmed up the crowd, Xing Sha took the stage. Xing Sha was also wearing a black suit today. He stood on stage, exuding authority without anger, and took the microphone from the host.

Xing Sha formally announced Xing Zheng's identity. "As everyone should know, Rongshi's shares have undergone a recent change. I am here to announce that all the shares in my possession have been transferred to my son, Xing Zheng. From today onwards, he officially succeeds me as the Chairman of Rongshi Group."

Hearing this news, the most shocked were the invited media. They hadn't expected Xing Zheng to have this identity. This meant his union with Jiang Chubi was a powerful alliance!

The host quickly invited Xing Zheng onto the stage. After he went up, he stood with Xing Sha.

Xing Zheng was slightly taller than Xing Sha, but looking at them, the father and son were remarkably similar. Their temperament, facial features, and even the contours of their faces were identical.

Lin Mei had seen photos of Xing Yan during his university days. Xing Yan also resembled Xing Sha, but Xing Yan was gentler, and his temperament was very different from Xing Sha's.

Xing Zheng took the stage and delivered several perfunctory remarks. He was the center of attention just by standing there. Lin Mei's gaze was involuntarily drawn to him. Zhao Jianghe noticed this with a hint of meaning in his eyes.

Lin Mei overheard people discussing the powerful alliance between the Xing and Jiang families. Some said that the Xing and Jiang families were already preparing for Xing Zheng and Jiang Chubi's wedding. As the conversation progressed, someone turned to Zhao Jianghe for confirmation, "Mr. Zhao, you have a good relationship with Chairman Xing. Is this wedding rumor true?"

Zhao Jianghe replied, "It should be true. I heard Uncle Jiang mention it just now."

"Then, the Jiang and Xing families will surely prosper even more in the future!" the person exclaimed.

Zhao Jianghe smiled and remained silent, his gaze returning to Lin Mei. She was still looking at the stage, her expression unreadable. It was unclear if she was truly indifferent or genuinely composed.

After Xing Zheng finished his lengthy remarks, reporters began to ask him questions. This was a pre-arranged segment, and the questions were almost entirely focused on Rongshi's future development.

Later, one reporter unexpectedly brought up Xing Zheng and Jiang Chubi's wedding. "When can we hear the good news from Mr. Xing and Miss Jiang?"

The reporter's question echoed throughout the banquet hall. Zhao Jianghe chuckled and leaned close to Lin Mei's ear, casually remarking, "This reporter knows how to ask."

Lin Mei replied, "Gossip, everyone is curious." Her tone remained casual, as if it were none of her business.

Zhao Jianghe suddenly raised his hand and gently brushed a strand of hair from Lin Mei's cheek. Xing Zheng, watching from the stage, saw this clearly, a cold glint flashing in his eyes.

He averted his gaze and looked at the reporter who had just asked the question, replying, "We are preparing. We will announce any good news."

The reporter pressed further, "Does that mean preparations are already underway?"

Xing Zheng replied with a simple "Mm." Although it was just one word, his attitude was clear.

After the formal proceedings concluded, it was time for mingling. Xing Zheng once again put his arm around Jiang Chubi, and they together greeted those who came to offer their regards.

Jiang Chubi was adept at navigating such social occasions. Lin Mei, watching her effortlessly charm everyone, felt inferior. If she were Xing Zheng, she would also choose someone like Jiang Chubi as a wife.

Lin Mei followed Zhao Jianghe, socializing with a few people and drinking a few glasses of wine. She already wanted to escape the environment. "I need to go to the restroom."

Zhao Jianghe asked, "Are you not feeling well?"

Lin Mei replied, "It's nothing. I'm just not used to Western liquor and feel a bit dizzy. I'll just go get some fresh air."

Zhao Jianghe said, "I'll accompany you."

Lin Mei refused, "No, I'll go by myself."

Zhao Jianghe said, "Then be careful," and no longer stopped her.

Lin Mei went to the restroom alone to take care of her physiological needs, then proceeded to the dressing room outside to sit down. She wanted a moment of quiet. The attendees were all busy with socializing and likely wouldn't waste time here.

Not long after Lin Mei sat down, the dressing room door was suddenly pushed open. She looked up in surprise and saw Xing Zheng's face. He was now filled with gloom, his eyes dark and menacing.

They were less than a meter apart, and the light from above cast their shadows together.

After not seeing him for many days, his oppressive aura had only intensified. Lin Mei instinctively wanted to flee.

The man saw through her intention, took a long stride to block her path, grabbed her by the shoulders, and pressed her against the door.