Xinran was wearing a light purple strapless dress and matching high heels, elegantly walking into Tian Lai. She could roughly guess the reason her father insisted she attend; although she had no desire to get involved in the inheritance battle with her aunt, she would come tonight to put her father's mind at ease. After all, today marked another year added to his age, and the days she could accompany him were dwindling.
The Host at the entrance spotted Xinran and eagerly led her into the banquet hall. Although she was unsure of the connection between this recently popular actress and the host of tonight's event, her name was listed among the important guests, indicating a significant relationship. She couldn't afford to be negligent. Moreover, tonight's banquet was for the birthday of Xia Sheng Group's former chairman, Xia Mingda. The actress, known as Summer, shared the surname Xia, suggesting an unspoken bond between them.
As Xinran stepped into the venue, she was greeted by prominent figures from high society. Her aunt still prioritized appearances above all else, insisting on hosting a lavish event despite any underlying tensions.
As for the wealthy attendees, whether from business or politics, they were well aware of Xia Sheng Group's current situation. Even if they were present at the banquet, it wasn't for her father or her aunt; rather, it served as a platform for them to socialize with peers of their caliber over drinks.
Sisters Xia Wenyiyi and Xia Wenjing were naturally at ease in such gatherings. They had grown up attending these events, unlike Xinran, who lived a simple life with her mother until she turned seven. After that, she found herself embroiled in a Cinderella-like struggle against her stepmother and stepsister. She lacked the relaxed demeanor to enjoy these banquets and had no interest in meeting young heirs or directors; she had never even attended family-hosted events.
Later on, when she became an actress, her lack of fame meant no one invited her to parties. She held a disdain for such environments. Thus, even though she arrived at the banquet today in an elegant manner, she certainly felt more nervous than sisters Xia Wenyiyi and Xia Wenjing, who were completely at home in such settings.
“Miss Xia, you must be Miss Xinran,” said a short man in a black tailcoat holding a glass of champagne as he approached Xinran with an air of sophistication.
“Yes, that's me. May I ask who you are?” Xinran replied with a smile, nodding politely.
“Oh, I am Zhang Lide, Vice President of Lide Financial Holdings. It's a pleasure to meet you tonight, Miss Xia!” He extended his hand to shake hers.
Another young heir relying on his family's business; she had no interest in his family enterprise or in him personally. Such individuals were likely seen as ideal suitors by her older sisters. They had long been aware of Xia Sheng Group's situation and had been searching for husbands who could ensure their future security. Zhang Lide, looking somewhat simple-minded, seemed suitable for Xia Wenjing.
“I’m also honored to meet you, Mr. Zhang!” Xinran responded perfunctorily while scanning the room for her father's figure. The banquet had already begun; if he hadn't arrived yet, he was probably resting in one of the guest rooms upstairs.
“I’m actually a loyal fan of yours! When will your new drama be airing? I’ll definitely watch it closely!”
"Uh... Thank you, Mr. Zhang, for your appreciation. I'm very happy... Well, Mr. Zhang, I have something to attend to, so I'll take my leave now!" Xinran awkwardly smiled; this Zhang Lide really knows how to make small talk.
"Wait a moment, Miss Xia. Next month, our company will hold a year-end party. I wonder if I could have the honor of inviting you to attend?" Zhang Lide asked with a grin.
"I'm sorry, Mr. Zhang, but I can't confirm if I will be available. I need to check with my manager. If I have the time, I will definitely go," Xinran suddenly noticed that Xia Wenyiyi and Xia Wenjing, who had been lingering around, had gone upstairs. It seemed something was happening up there.
"Ah, that's wonderful, Miss Xia! Then I will send you the invitation card in advance!"
"Okay!" Zhang Lide continued to linger while Xinran had already walked toward the staircase.
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