Chapter Sixty-Five: A Fateful Entanglement

It must be said, Jiang Xiaotian truly loved cars. He had always dreamed of racing with friends, but poverty had kept him from realizing that dream—not to mention sports cars, he couldn't even afford an electric scooter. Thus, his dream remained a mere fantasy.

Yet fate played its hand, and fantasy became reality. He finally had a car, but still only Zhang Wei as his sole friend.

So when Yang Yuanzhen made his suggestion, Jiang Xiaotian agreed without hesitation. He had always been alone, yearning for a friend who shared his interests. Now, with such an opportunity before him, how could he let it slip away?

Yang Yuanzhen, meanwhile, was still wondering what to do if Jiang Xiaotian refused, but before he could even finish the thought, Jiang Xiaotian nodded. "Sure, where is he? I'll go meet him in a bit."

His reply stunned not only Yang Yuanzhen but the others as well. In that instant, everyone realized that even without a formal alliance, Jiang Xiaotian would offer Yang Yuanzhen protection.

Yang Yuanzhen's eyes gleamed with delight; seeing the others’ complicated expressions made his heart soar. Previously, these people had merely cooperated with him, but from now on, they would surely treat him with caution. No wonder he was secretly pleased.

As time passed, dish after dish was brought to the table. Even these influential figures couldn't help but marvel: Platinum's cuisine was truly opulent—one particular dish featured fresh bluefin tuna, air-shipped just that morning.

They savored the delicacies, but only Yang Yuanzhen truly ate heartily. He was a cunning old fox, seeking to use his son to approach Jiang Xiaotian. His starting point was lower than the others, and he had even offended Jiang Xiaotian at first. Yet he saw clearly that Jiang Xiaotian was unfamiliar with social niceties and unaware of his own influence. Such a person was ripe for exploitation!

The meal lasted a long time. They were all exceedingly polite to Jiang Xiaotian. Though no partnership was agreed upon, they exchanged contacts and promised to help if any trouble arose.

This was certainly advantageous. After the others departed, Yang Yuanzhen hurried forward. "Mr. Jiang, I’ve spoken to my son. He’s still eating—and with several friends. He’s a few years younger than you, but you should get along well."

Jiang Xiaotian nodded, curious as to what kind of person Yang Yuanzhen’s son might be.

If he turned out to be a refined young heir, all the better—Jiang Xiaotian simply wanted someone to share his passion for cars.

Coincidentally, Yang Yuanzhen intended to accompany him downstairs, but a phone call interrupted—another group seeking collaboration.

His round face was wreathed in smiles.

It seemed that, going forward, more and more people would seek partnership. But business was business, and he discussed with Jiang Xiaotian that he needed to attend to it first.

"Go ahead, I’ll head downstairs," Jiang Xiaotian agreed.

He was easygoing; since Yang Yuanzhen had urgent matters, there was no reason to keep him. Besides, he already knew where his son was dining—he just forgot the name.

It was no issue, though; the other party should recognize him. As long as he explained his purpose, all would be well.

Meanwhile, Yang Feng wore a look of immense pride.

He ended his call, and his friends immediately asked what was going on.

Yang Feng shook his head. "Do you know who’s coming soon?"

They all shook their heads in confusion. Li Xiaoqing nudged him. "Quit teasing! Which little vixen called you now?"

"Don’t be ridiculous—it was my dad. Today a big shot invited him to dinner. Dad says this person is very impressive, also young, and drives a 911 like me. He’ll be coming down soon."

Yang Feng spoke lightly, but his friends were shocked.

"No way—is that for real? This person is giving your dad so much respect?"

Yang Feng nodded again. "Yes, he’s really remarkable. Dad says plenty of elite figures are present—people worth tens or even hundreds of millions. They all want to meet this big shot."

Someone quickly caught the key point: a person everyone wanted to meet was now coming downstairs to see Yang Feng!

Instantly, they looked at Yang Feng as if he were a deity—his family was truly extraordinary.

Li Xiaoqing’s eyes sparkled, and she grew a bit self-conscious. "Did I dress well enough? I hope I won’t embarrass you!"

"Don’t say silly things—you look beautiful today, absolutely beautiful," Yang Feng said with a charming smile.

Li Xiaoqing blushed, curious about what kind of person this so-called big shot might be.

"Thankfully we’re with Feng, but Xiaoqing is the luckiest—Feng’s family is bound to rise to the top, and Platinum will be just a casual hangout for them!" someone laughed.

Yang Feng feigned modesty. "Ahem, keep it low-key—don’t mention this outside. It’s all a secret. And today is Xiaoqing’s birthday—double happiness! Don’t worry, whenever I come, I’ll bring you along."

How could he not be excited? That big shot coming to see him meant things were good between him and his father. Anyone able to book a spot at Platinum had not just wealth, but power.

This was the moment to shine!

...

Jiang Xiaotian made his way to the buffet area, which was bustling with young people and spacious.

He scratched his head, feeling out of his depth, and finally asked a server for help.

Nearly all the staff knew Jiang Xiaotian and Ling’er, since the manager had issued strict orders to treat them with utmost respect.

So, as soon as he appeared, a server approached to inquire.

After explaining his purpose, a male server led him straight to the table in question.

But upon seeing who was seated there, Jiang Xiaotian was dumbfounded.

What a cursed fate—it was Li Xiaoqing and her friends once again!

Wait!

Suddenly, Jiang Xiaotian realized: Yang Feng? Yang Yuanzhen? If he remembered correctly, this second-generation rich kid also drove a black 911.

He pressed his lips together—what an uncanny coincidence. No more mistakes now; Yang Feng must be Yang Yuanzhen’s son.

Jiang Xiaotian considered leaving to avoid awkwardness, but the server, unaware, quickly told Yang Feng someone was looking for him.

They had been waiting for some time—all turned to greet the visitor with enthusiasm.

Li Xiaoqing and the other girls had just finished touching up their makeup, determined to meet this big shot at their best.

But when they came face-to-face with Jiang Xiaotian, the air froze instantly.

Yang Feng squinted, sighing. "So after all that, it was a misunderstanding. But this one is a true ‘big shot’ nonetheless."

His tone was full of disdain as he plopped into his seat, his face showing clear annoyance.

Li Xiaoqing clicked her tongue, her mood, which had just recovered, now on the verge of exploding. "Jiang Xiaotian? What are you doing here again? Can’t you leave me alone? Can’t I just enjoy my birthday? What do you want from me? Wherever I go, you follow—is there no end to it? Are you a parasite?"

She had prepared herself so perfectly, only to see Jiang Xiaotian. How could she not be angry? Especially since he had disrupted things repeatedly, and with a big shot about to arrive, she feared trouble.

Jiang Xiaotian looked at her expressionlessly, saying nothing.

After all, she was his cousin. No matter how she treated him, he remembered his uncle’s kindness.

So, no matter what, Jiang Xiaotian would never insult or harm her.

But he was thoroughly disappointed in this woman, so he had nothing more to say.

"Yeah, why are you here again? Really haunting us!"

"Xiaoqing, don’t be angry—just ignore him. He’s crazy!"

Yang Feng sneered, "Leave now. I don’t want to be bothered with you. Considering you’re Xiaoqing’s cousin, I’ve been endlessly patient, but don’t test my limits. I have important business soon, so get out of my sight!"

By the end, Yang Feng’s voice was raised.

This time, Li Xiaoqing didn’t intervene; she even felt Jiang Xiaotian deserved it.

"Jiang Xiaotian, do you know? If it weren’t for me pleading for you, you might not even be standing here. Can’t you show some gratitude?" Li Xiaoqing shook her head, filled with resentment.

Jiang Xiaotian ignored her, one hand in his pocket, smiling faintly at Yang Feng. "Are you sure you want me to leave?"