The applause had barely died down when Feng Ju stepped forward, wine glass in hand, wearing his signature smirk. Always playing the charming young heir. Always believing himself irresistible.
He approached the stage just as Xiao Xiao handed the mic back to the host.
"Xiao Xiao," he said smoothly, voice carrying just enough for those nearby to hear. "Still as dramatic as ever."
She turned her head, calm and composed, not even surprised.
"Feng Ju." Her voice was polite, but cool. "Still not worth remembering."
A few nearby guests chuckled under their breath. Feng Ju's eyes narrowed, but he quickly masked it with a lazy grin.
"Don't be like that," he said. "Everyone knows you used to chase me like a lost little puppy."
More people turned. A few phones subtly lifted, recording.
Xiao Xiao didn't blink.
"And now," he continued, "you're wearing red and pretending to be someone else. You think changing your dress will change who you are?"
She stepped forward once, close enough that only he could hear her next words.
"You're right," she said, her eyes sharp as blades. "Changing the dress didn't change who I am."
She leaned in slightly. "Being betrayed did."
Feng Ju faltered.
"But go on," she added. "Keep speaking. Let the world hear how a man tries to cling to the woman who left him behind."
A hush fell over the nearby crowd.
Her voice rose, just enough. "Next time, try growing up before you come barking at my feet."
Then, with a small, dignified smile, she turned and walked away—leaving Feng Ju standing in the center of attention, lips twitching with humiliation.
From the balcony above, Old Master Feng clapped slowly, amusement flickering in his sharp eyes.
And across the ballroom, Li Yan tilted his head, studying her.
"Interesting," he muttered. "Very interesting."