When Ye Chen, Xiao Churan, Ma Lan, and Xiao Changkun arrived at the island’s French restaurant for breakfast, several waiting staff reminded each guest as they entered, saying, “Dear sir, madam, tonight there’s a free party at the hotel’s sea-view restaurant. You and your family are welcome to join. Our group’s president, Mr Bernard Arnault, and his wife have invited the famous singer Tawana Sweet to attend the party as well.”
Ma Lan exclaimed, “Oh my, Tawana’s really here?”
The staff member, Hani, nodded and said, “Yes, Ms Ma, Ms Sweet arrived on the island this morning. If you’re a fan, you must come to the party tonight. You’ll have a chance to take photos with her and get her autograph.”
Ma Lan gave a smug chuckle, patted Ye Chen beside her, and boasted, “That Tawana held so many concerts in China recently, and my son-in-law was her specially invited feng shui director. Tell her later that this year’s Master Ye is also on the island and that she should come pay a visit when she has time.”
Hani was stunned, asking in shock, “Ms Ma… is that all true?!”
“Of course!” Ma Lan said proudly, “My son-in-law isn’t someone just anyone can hire. Last time, he only agreed to be her feng shui director because she was sincere enough to deserve some face.”
Xiao Churan, embarrassed, said, “Mum, stop talking nonsense outside. It doesn’t look good if it spreads.”
Ma Lan was indignant, “What nonsense? Every word I said is the truth!”
Xiao Churan, with a rare stern expression, said, “Mum, even if it’s true, do you have to broadcast it everywhere? Can’t we keep a low profile? We’re just here for a holiday and will leave in a few days.”
Seeing Xiao Churan’s displeasure, Ma Lan realised her daughter rarely expressed dissatisfaction so directly. She wasn’t sure how she’d upset her. Boasting was just her nature, and after all these years, Xiao Churan should be used to it.
Though Ma Lan was usually domineering, she didn’t dare push further when Xiao Churan was truly upset. So, she said to Hani, “What I just told you, keep it low-key and confidential. Don’t let outsiders know.”
Hani smiled and nodded, “Don’t worry, Ms Ma, I won’t tell anyone.”
Ma Lan turned, hooking her arm through Xiao Churan’s, trying to appease her, “Churan, let’s go to the party tonight. I’ve never seen such a big star before.”
For some reason, Xiao Churan kept picturing Tawana passionately kissing a masked warrior on stage, which made her uncomfortable. She said, “Mum, if you’re interested, go ahead. I want to rest and have some quiet time tonight.”
Ma Lan felt awkward and turned to Xiao Changkun, saying commandingly, “Then you’re coming with me tonight. No excuses!”
Xiao Changkun laughed, “What excuses could I have? I’m definitely joining in on the fun.”
Then he asked Ye Chen, “Good son-in-law, are you coming tonight?”
Ye Chen waved his hand, “I’ll stay in the room with Churan. I won’t join the excitement.”
Xiao Churan looked at Ye Chen and asked, “Ms Sweet was your client. Since you’re both on the same island by chance, wouldn’t it be rude not to meet?”
Ye Chen said casually, “What’s rude about it? It was just a temporary collaboration. Once it’s over, there’s no ongoing relationship.”
Xiao Churan nodded lightly. Seeing Ye Chen’s attitude, he seemed to have no lingering feelings for Tawana, which made her feel a bit more at ease.
At that moment, Tawana had no idea that Ye Chen, the man she couldn’t stop thinking about, was on the island.
After a long flight, she had no appetite for breakfast and was lounging on her villa’s terrace, sunbathing and enjoying the view.
She had rented four water villas: two for her bodyguards, one for her parents, and one for herself.
