Chapter 872: The Banquet

Translator: Dragon Boat Translation  Editor: Dragon Boat Translation

Huangfu Ruiling and Ye Leng’an were both remarkable figures, each drawing the attention of any crowd they entered. With both of them present, it only heightened the curiosity of onlookers.

Those attending this banquet were far from ordinary. Young ladies from prominent families graced the event, each hoping to secure a favorable match.

For some, this occasion served as an opportunity for family alliances, while for others, it was a chance to find a spouse who could offer beneficial connections.

Despite his youth, Huangfu Ruiling was already the head of the Huangfu family, destined to hold that position for years to come. Marrying him meant becoming the true matriarch of the Huangfu family.

Many young ladies were intrigued, but Huangfu Ruiling’s early engagement was a well-known affair. Despite their admiration, most refrained from taking action.

Yet, there were still those undeterred, confident in their allure’s power to sway Huangfu Ruiling’s heart. They were willing to try their luck.

Similarly, Ye Leng’an’s presence captivated many with her beauty. However, upon seeing her beside Huangfu Ruiling, their fantasies were quickly grounded in reality.

After surveying the room, Ye Leng’an approached Huangfu Ruiling with a smile. “Master Huangfu, you seem to be quite popular.”

Such unabashed boldness from those girls! Their direct gazes almost bordered on outright confessions.

Huangfu Ruiling raised an eyebrow, offering a warning glance to the men eyeing Ye Leng’an before replying, “Mrs. Huangfu, your charm is undeniable. Many men here have their eyes on you! I almost feel inclined to pluck out their envious eyes!”

His words held no trace of jest. It was evident that Huangfu Ruiling harbored a fiery disdain for those coveting gazes, though he remained composed. Yet, he knew that An’an belonged to him alone – a fact that couldn’t be altered.

Ye Leng’an rolled her eyes playfully, retorting, “Don’t speak out of turn. I’m not married to you yet. Don’t tarnish my reputation by calling me Mrs. Huangfu.”

Though her words were firm, Ye Leng’an’s tone betrayed no anger; rather, it sounded more like playful banter.

Huangfu Ruiling pulled Ye Leng’an into an embrace, teasing, “Are you urging me to marry you soon?”

“Don’t. You shouldn’t entertain such thoughts,” Ye Leng’an quickly interjected. “I’m still young and not eager to marry early.”

His voice took on a deeper tone. “An’an, I can give you time to prepare. You’re still young, but after graduating from university, you’ll be of marrying age.”

Ye Leng’an sighed in resignation, playfully chiding, “Do you really need to rush? Aren’t men said to avoid the ‘marriage grave’ so early? Why are you so different?”

Amused by her remark, he chuckled. “I’ll show you that marriage isn’t a graveyard for love. Even if it were, it’s still better than being left to rot in the wilderness!”

Ye Leng’an couldn’t help but concede to his retort. “I’m speechless in the face of your analogy,” she admitted, shooting Huangfu Ruiling a playful glare. “But don’t you think your description of yourself is rather peculiar?”

“Not at all,” he replied nonchalantly. “Besides, didn’t you start it? I’m just playing along with your words.”

Ye Leng’an found herself momentarily at a loss for words. It seemed her usual eloquence failed her in Huangfu Ruiling’s presence!

The sight of the two conversing in whispers, with Ye Leng’an occasionally flashing a sweet smile, drew everyone’s attention.

Of course, Ye Hongxuan and Lian Mengzhu, who had just arrived, took note of the scene. Not far behind them, Murong Xingrui and Ye Wanwan walked hand in hand.

Representing the Ye family this time were only Ye Hongxuan and Lian Mengzhu. In previous years, Ye Wanwan would accompany her parents to this banquet.

However, despite attending together this year, some changes had occurred.

Tonight, Ye Wanwan no longer represented the Ye family. She attended not as their daughter but as Murong Xingrui’s fiancée.

Initially, she had been quite content. Attending such grand events annually was a tradition for her. And each time, she would undoubtedly steal the spotlight – not just for her beauty, but also for being backed by the Ye family.

Now, with the additional identity of Murong Xingrui’s fiancée, she felt even more satisfied.

Though she didn’t harbor any affection for Murong Xingrui, she appreciated his status. He had already begun taking over the affairs of the Murong family, indicating his role as the chosen heir. Marrying him meant becoming the future matriarch of the Murong family.

Even before their engagement, Murong Xingrui had been one of the most sought-after bachelors among the girls of the Hidden World. Now, he was hers.

Before leaving, she had prepared herself to face the envy and jealousy of others. Yet, she hadn’t anticipated that, with Ye Leng’an present, she would remain unnoticed by everyone else.