Su Ting felt the shattering impact of Gu Dai's words, destroying the last vestiges of his hopeful thoughts.
Their destination, the art exhibition, was close by, and they arrived after only a brief journey.
Upon halting the vehicle, Su Ting exited first, then rounded the car to assist Gu Dai.
His celebrity status ensured that a gaggle of reporters, like coordinated hunters, instantly aimed their cameras his way.
"Is that Su Ting? He's back in the country and I've managed to capture him on camera. So the rumors of his return home are true?"
"Who's the woman accompanying him? She's stunning. A newcomer to showbiz?"
"I don't think she's from the entertainment world. If she were, she'd be all over the tabloids already. Maybe she's an heiress from some wealthy family."
"I've never seen the usually aloof Su Ting with a woman, let alone giving her such a warm smile. Could something be brewing?"
"It certainly looks that way!"
...