Chapter 106: Seeking the Spotlight

Fans know their idols inside and out. They are well aware of Ye Fanxing's long-time preference for light fragrances, the brands she has endorsed, and the ones she regularly uses. 

Gu Yining's assertions were, in fact, correct. 

Ye Fanxing's eyes widened in astonishment; she had never expected Gu Yining to have medical knowledge or the ability to diagnose. 

She recalled visiting an allergy specialist previously, confirming that Gu Yining's assessment of her symptoms was accurate. 

Ye Fanxing couldn't deny what Gu Yining had just said. 

With a chill in her expression, Gu Yining's confidence swelled as she continued, "If anyone were to pull out a high-concentration fragrance right now, even without lavender, you might still have an allergic reaction. I don't want to joke about your health, Miss Ye, but you should know your body well enough. The trouble this has caused you today stems from my oversight regarding our fragrance supply contract. I'm officially declaring it null and void, and I'll ensure that the penalty fee is paid to you promptly."

With that, Gu Yining turned on her heel, leaving the gathering. 

She couldn't bear to remain in this deceitful atmosphere for another moment. 

Mu Zuozhen quickly followed her out, recognizing that Gu Yining's mature and decisive handling of the situation had begun to sway public opinion. 

Some attendees started to empathize with her; they realized that as a star, Ye Fanxing should be acutely aware of potential allergens. The lack of communication about these sensitivities before their collaboration was indeed problematic. 

Now that a situation had arisen, it wasn't entirely fair to blame Gu Yining. 

Feeling helpless, Ye Fanxing turned to Fu Hannan, her voice pleading. "Hannan, I didn't mean to; I genuinely forgot. I love the 'Encounter' fragrance so much that I—"

Fu Hannan's piercing gaze fixed upon her, icy and unwavering. "You ordered only light fragrances from Fu Enterprises. Whether today's incident was accidental or intentional, you know in your heart the truth."

After delivering his blunt remark, Fu Hannan cast her one last cold glance before leaving the banquet hall, his demeanor sharp and unforgiving. 

Ye Fanxing stood rooted to the spot, staring at the rash covering her hands, her teeth clenched in frustration. 

She had meticulously planned her scheme, but she had not anticipated Gu Yining's medical expertise. 

Had Gu Yining lacked that knowledge, she would have been the target of criticism for her supposed unprofessionalism in failing to inquire about Ye Fanxing's allergy history.

Outside the banquet hall, Fu Hannan pursued Gu Yining, who had settled down on the steps of the hotel entrance. She hugged her knees, her head bowed, lost in a whirlwind of emotions. 

She felt anger towards herself for not being more thorough, whether in asking Ye Fanxing about her allergy history or investigating her overall health. 

If only she had been more diligent and cautious, she wouldn't have given Ye Fanxing the opportunity to exploit her weaknesses. 

Ye Fanxing was a born performer, adept at playing roles both on and off the stage. 

A pair of polished black shoes entered her line of sight, exuding an aura that felt both familiar and overwhelming. 

Gu Yining lifted her gaze, meeting Fu Hannan's cold, stern face. 

"Thank you for speaking up for me earlier," she said, standing to face him. Her tone carried a hint of detachment, but her gratitude was genuine. 

Had Fu Hannan not defended her, she would have become the focus of scorn in front of everyone. 

"Why did you even come to this soirée?" he asked, his voice icy and demanding, lips pursed without warmth. 

Gu Yining longed to question him about his silence over the past week, the reason for his phone being switched off, and why he had returned without a word, only to accompany Ye Fanxing to the event. 

But all her inquiries remained lodged in her throat, unsaid. 

"Do you just love seeking attention? Do you have any idea that the people here are all cunning, bloodsucking vampires? Do you think you can really make a name for yourself among them? Because of your lack of professionalism, you nearly ruined your reputation and tarnished the image of Fu Enterprises." 

His harsh words struck her like a cold slap, leaving her momentarily speechless. 

Gu Yining felt the weight of his accusations, her cheeks flushing with a mix of embarrassment and anger. While she understood the truth in his words, she also wanted to defend herself. 

"I didn't come here to seek attention," she finally replied, her voice steady despite the storm of emotions swirling inside her. "I came because I believed in my work and wanted to present my craft."

Fu Hannan's expression softened slightly at her determination, but he remained stern. "Your craft is commendable, but this isn't the right place for it. You have to learn to navigate these treacherous waters."

"Maybe I will," she replied, meeting his gaze with newfound resolve. "But I won't let anyone take advantage of me again." 

For a brief moment, they shared a silent understanding, two individuals caught in the machinations of a world that thrived on deceit.