Part 22：Call me if you need anything
Guanghan Pavilion was a secluded club, tucked along a wide plane tree-lined road flanked by Western-style architecture. Streetlights stood as silent sentinels, leading Zoe down a winding path until a three-story building with a courtyard finally appeared before her.
Tonight, Zoe wore a pale moon-colored dress, with her black hair elegantly swept to one side. The look was demure and refined, a safe choice considering she wasn't sure about the nature of the gathering. Her outfit could pass for a red carpet look or a casual stroll in a mall.
As she stepped out, Lan reminded her from the car, "Call me if you need anything. I'll be nearby."
Zoe turned back, giving Lan a reassuring smile and a nod. She appeared poised and composed, though a flicker of nervousness fluttered inside her.
Once the security checked her invitation, she stepped inside—only to be met by an unexpected surprise.
"Zoe!" A round-faced girl with two buns and dimples beamed at her.
The girl's face was unfamiliar, yet friendly, and Zoe was certain they hadn't met before. But before she could say anything, the girl enthusiastically hugged her. "I'm Xiaowen Zheng! I loved your look yesterday—it was stunning! That dress made you look so regal and ethereal!"
Zoe was a bit taken aback but managed a polite "Thank you."
"Oh, right, we haven't met!" Xiaowen laughed, releasing Zoe. "I just came back from overseas, and I started my own brand—VX. I've been wanting to reach out! I'm hosting a show next month, and I'd love for you to walk in it. Interested?"
Zoe was momentarily stunned. "Walk? I…I haven't walked in a show before…" She paused, then suddenly recalled where she'd heard of VX—a popular fashion influencer had mentioned it as a rising Chinese brand making waves in Europe, even dressing celebrities in their collections.
"If you don't mind my lack of experience, I'd be thrilled." Zoe's eyes sparkled with excitement. "I remember VX now! I absolutely adore it. You're amazing for building such a successful brand at your age!"
Xiaowen's laughter rang out. Confident and brimming with charisma, she carried herself without a hint of hesitation.
The two exchanged contacts and even added each other on WeChat, just as Chen appeared, gliding toward them in a long black evening gown.
"Zoe! You're here!" Chen's face lit up with warmth as she embraced Zoe. "You look stunning tonight!"
"Thank you, Sister Ting! You look amazing as well—so elegant!" Zoe replied sincerely, admiration evident on her face.
Chen noticed Xiaowen and smiled. "I see you've already met Xiaowen? She's one of the most talented designers I've come across in recent years!"
"Yes, she gave me quite the surprise. I didn't know who she was at first, but once she mentioned VX, I knew right away." Zoe smiled at Xiaowen. "VX is bound to become every girl's dream brand!"
Xiaowen turned to Chen with a playful grin. "Sister Ting, you have to be at my show next month! Without you there, the show just wouldn't be the same!"
Chen sighed, feigning reluctance. "Does your show really need anyone else to add sparkle?"
The three of them shared a laugh, chatting and enjoying each other's company, and Zoe felt an unexpected sense of ease in this rarefied circle.