---Slap on the Face
Although Sui Xi preferred Ye Chen's temperament over Hu Jun's arrogance, she still had concerns. Ye Chen's modest background and unclear future made her worry about whether he could truly provide her daughter with lasting happiness.
Every mother wants the best for her child. So for now, Sui Xi chose not to interfere—but if Ye Chen didn't grow or improve himself, she would eventually have to step in.
As for Hu Jun, he had liked Lin Rouxi from the moment he saw her. But her cold attitude toward him and her clear preference for Ye Chen had left him feeling bitter and rejected.
Trying to break the awkward silence, Sui Xi turned to Hu Jun. "So, Hu Jun, how's your father's business going these days?"
Hu Jun immediately straightened his posture and smiled proudly. "Very well, Auntie. My father's company is thriving. We're pulling in millions every month now."
He glanced at Ye Chen and Lin Rouxi, expecting their admiration. But instead, the two were locked in their own happy conversation, clearly uninterested in his bragging.
Hu Jun clenched his fists under the table, feeling humiliated by their indifference.
Just then, their food arrived. Lin Rouxi happily began feeding Ye Chen small bites, and the two exchanged playful looks.
Sui Xi noticed the intimacy between them. It wasn't something she could easily dismiss. Separating them would be harder than she thought.
Meanwhile, Hu Jun could only grit his teeth in frustration as he watched the couple enjoy their dinner.
After the meal, Lin Rouxi got up. "Mom, we're heading out now."
Sui Xi quickly stopped her. "Rouxi, come home with me tonight. It's been ages since we spent time together."
"Alright, Mom." Lin Rouxi nodded obediently.
Hu Jun saw an opportunity and jumped in. "Aunt Sui, why don't I give you two a ride?"
But Sui Xi politely declined. "That won't be necessary."
Before he could insist again, Lin Rouxi added, "No need. Ye Chen will take us home. Right, honey?"
Ye Chen nodded. "Of course."
Hu Jun smiled on the outside but cursed internally. Lin Rouxi, you'll be mine someday. Just wait.
Outside the restaurant, Sui Xi glanced around. "Rouxi, where's your car?"
Lin Rouxi pointed at an old, rusty vehicle nearby.
"That one."
Hu Jun burst out laughing. "That junk heap? That thing shouldn't even be on the road!"
He was delighted by the chance to insult Ye Chen. "Honestly, is that what you drive? Come on, Auntie, let me take you home in a real car."
But Lin Rouxi wasn't having it. "You think your car's better? Ye Chen's is worth ten times what you drive."
"Hah! That wreck?" Hu Jun scoffed. "You're joking. My car is a top-end model. I doubt a fruit vendor can even afford the tires."
Ye Chen said nothing and simply followed behind the women.
Unbeknownst to Hu Jun, the beat-up car Lin Rouxi pointed to was hiding something—Ye Chen's real car was parked right behind it.
Sui Xi looked confused. Why is Rouxi so confident?
Then, as they turned the corner, the truth came into view.
Behind the rusty car sat an ultra-luxurious, limited-edition sports car—sleek, silver, and gleaming under the lights. Only seven of its kind existed in the world.
Ye Chen casually walked over, unlocked the car, and held the door open for Sui Xi and Lin Rouxi.
Hu Jun, still standing by his own car, was stunned speechless.
The engine roared to life with a thunderous growl—an unmistakable sound only such elite machines could make.
As the sports car rolled past Hu Jun, the window lowered. Ye Chen leaned out and gave a calm smile.
"Hey, your car looks a bit outdated. You should really upgrade to something like mine," he said coolly before speeding off.
Hu Jun was left standing alone, jaw nearly on the ground.
A fruit seller… owns that?
He knew the model. Only seven were made. And one was now being driven by the man he just mocked.
Ye Chen's final words echoed in his mind—they were the exact ones Hu Jun had used to insult him.
A perfect slap to the face.
Humiliated, embarrassed, and boiling with shame, Hu Jun turned away and left the parking lot without another word, feeling like the clown of the night.
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