Part 37：wasn’t the type to tease others so actively

Normally, Zoe wasn't the type to tease others so actively. But something about Song pretending to stay calm and composed brought out an uncharacteristic mischievousness in her. One playful remark led to another, and before she knew it, she was watching in amazement as Song—normally so poised and unfazed—started to show hints of flustered embarrassment, like spotting a rare animal in the wild.

This wasn't the Song she was used to seeing on-screen, or even the one she'd been messaging last night. He felt… different. It was surprising, but somehow refreshing.

What she didn't realize was that Song was just as surprised by her. Based on her polished, sweet image, he'd expected her to be a cool, reserved beauty. Instead, she was more disarming in person than over text. She was certainly nothing like the aloof and condescending way she'd faced Su Yan yesterday. And yet, like last night, this side of her had a strange allure that made Song feel a pleasant tingle.

"Does your manager know you're out here having lunch with me?" he asked.

Zoe nodded. "Of course. She was all set to take me back this morning. What about yours?"

Song's face turned serious. "No, he doesn't. Actually, that's why I wanted to meet with you today."

"Oh?"

"I need to apologize," he said sincerely. "After our photos hit the trending lists, my manager hired a bunch of bots to target you. He was convinced you'd staged everything."

Zoe stared at him, surprised.

"I was aware of it, too," Song continued, "but I didn't stop it. I didn't realize we might have misjudged you until you posted on Weibo last night."

There was real honesty in his gaze, and Zoe couldn't help but let out a resigned smile.

"Song, your manager…his name's Luo, right? Does he still think I'm just trying to ride your wave?" As she asked, her eyes took on a casual, almost indifferent glint. To anyone who knew her well, though, this nonchalance was a clear defense mechanism. Unfortunately, she didn't have many people around her who really knew her.

Song lowered his head, quiet.

"Honestly, it wouldn't be the first time someone tried to do that, and it won't be the last. But with you…" He stopped short, searching for the right words. "I thought you were different."

"It's fine." Zoe's voice cut through his hesitation.

"What?" Song blinked, wondering if he'd misheard.

Her face softened as she gave him a faint smile, one that held a delicate yet fleeting vulnerability, like a dragonfly skimming the surface of water.

"I'm not exactly blameless here. I didn't orchestrate anything, but it's true I've benefited a lot from the buzz," she admitted, hands spread in a small shrug. "If you're apologizing out of guilt, there's no need. Your manager's caution is justified. Let's be honest—I wouldn't have had such a boost to my career if it weren't for this whole thing."

Song frowned slightly.

At that moment, a soft knock on the door interrupted them as the server entered to serve the dishes. It was clear Song had arranged for discretion in advance; the server didn't spare them even a glance, quickly placing the plates and leaving them in silence once more.

The quiet of the room settled between them again.