บท 163: Save yourself the humiliation

Chen Mumu tossed her phone onto the bed, frustration etched across her face. Thoughts of Xu Jing Li lingered like a dark cloud, and she knew dwelling on him would only sour her mood further. Taking a deep breath, she resolved to focus on her day instead. There was no room for distractions, not with everything she needed to do to prepare for the gala.

She swung her legs over the side of the bed, padding to the bathroom. The hot shower did wonders to clear her mind, the water washing away the lingering traces of her discontent. After drying off, she pulled on a blue dress — simple yet elegant, perfectly suited for the day ahead.

On the table lay the membership card Director Zhang had given her, its golden surface gleaming under the morning light. Picking it up, she ran her fingers over its embossed edges. It was heavier than it looked, and the weight seemed to carry the promise of luxury. With a determined nod, she slipped it into her purse and hailed a cab.