章 3: Are You Sober Now?
編集者: Larbre Studio
Jinli quickly took a step back, avoiding An Rou's display of affection.
Jinli's apprehension struck a sense of betrayal and shock into An Rou. "What happened to you, Jinli?"
Jinli did not respond, only coldly glaring at her.
This was the first time that An Rou had seen Bai Jinli acting like this. While Bai Jinli's innate beauty was endorsed by all, she was similarly famous for her airheadedness. Up till now, An Rou had never felt much confidence and presence from her, only superficial beauty. Coupled with the years of scandals, her presence had only turned more damaged and timid. Numerous netizens had even slandered her online. Defamatory comments were everywhere, such as, "So much for having that beautiful face. What a shame, she is unfit for the screen."
Yet, the current Bai Jinli was completely different. Looks-wise, she did not change much. Yet, her aura was astoundingly divergent. The once dull and uncrafted stone now sparkled blindingly and confidently like a gem. Bai Jinli had become a radiant and intricately sculpted jewel.
Towering over the petite An Rou, Bai Jinli stared down An Rou, questioning, "Did you know how long I waited for you after you left?"
Oh, so that is what she is mad about.
An Rou heaved a sigh as the burden was lifted off her shoulders. Putting on her innocent act, she whimpered, "You know, I felt dizzy after 2 glasses of wine, so I rested for a while longer. When I went in, you had already disappeared…."
"Oh, is that so?" Jinli's reply was curt, her voice flat and monotonous.
An Rou nodded vigorously as an unexplainable unease stirred within her. She was puzzled. Bai Jinli had always been a simpleton, following her and believing her, never questioning anything much.
Looking at her expressionless stare, An Rou could not judge her thoughts. She continued giving excuses, "I really searched high and low for you, but to no avail. I could only come back to wait. You have no idea how anxious…"
A mocking snort cut her short.
Jinli could not hold herself back any longer. "You? Worried about me?" She threw her a dirty look, her face overridden with contempt. "You care so much for me. Yet, I did not see a single call or message. You look after me so well. Yet, you were in the mood for a relaxing face mask." She took a step towards her, closing their distance.
An Rou's trembling feet moved back a step. She clasped a sweating palm tightly onto the door frame as her strength drained out of her legs.
She was scared. She could feel it clearly. Her eyes were darting around uncontrollably. She could not bring herself to meet Jinli's eyes. That gaze struck a deep and unknown panic within her.
Scared? What am I scared of? Bai Jinli? What nonsense! She's just an idiot! What is there to be scared of?
With each ego-boosting thought, she suppressed her nerves. Strength seemed to slowly grow within her.
Raising her chin and pulling her shoulders back, she demanded coldly, "Bai Jinli, what are you implying? Out of my good will, I took you to a wealthy investor. What do I get for it? I bridge connections for you and you are accusing me?" Her face flushed red as her irritation smoldered. "I must have been blind to bring opportunities to a dog like you. Alright, if you see me this way, we are done. Our friendship is over! From this moment on, I will not bridge connections for you. Your resources, your support, it's none of my business."
Having severed all ties, she coldly turned to leave.
"Stop!" A voice echoed weakly from behind.
She halted. Her lips curled smugly. She was right. All she had to do was put on a strong front, and that would be enough to put the spineless, good-for-nothing woman back in her place.
I can't let it go just like that.
She was not someone to be messed with. She had to make Bai Jinli understand that.
She slowly turned around, calm and composed, awaiting the satisfying apology.
Yet, what welcomed her was an unceremonious shower from a pail.
-- 贈り物
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