Chapter 19: Replacing Your Life (19)

Social gatherings like banquets were prime opportunities for discussing collaborations and partnerships.

At the Song family’s banquet, attendees included prominent figures from the business world. After concluding her conversation with Tong Ling and exchanging contact information, Shen Man decided to bring Ye Huan along to engage in networking.

Ye Huan couldn’t feel at ease leaving Tong Ling alone, especially with Ye Xu closely watching his girlfriend. Sensing his concern, Tong Ling quickly gave him a meaningful glance. As merely a stand-in, it would be unusual if Ye Huan showed excessive attention towards her.

Ye Huan wasn’t foolish; to avoid arousing Shen Man’s suspicions, he had no choice but to feign indifference. Just before departing, he warned Ye Xu, “Don’t touch my girl.”

Ye Xu responded with a courteous smile, clearly dismissing Ye Huan’s words as insignificant.

Shen Man did not miss the silent exchange between the brothers. To her, using Ye Xu to spur Ye Huan’s ambition was advantageous.

“What do you think of Yu Ling?” Shen Man asked.

Ye Huan pondered briefly. He needed to convey his lingering affection for Yu Yurou while also elevating the status of his substitute girlfriend, so…

“She resembles Yurou greatly, and having her by my side feels very comforting.”

If Ye Huan weren’t her own son, Shen Man might have been tempted to throw him out right then.

“I’ve already said it, I greatly appreciate her,” Shen Man stated firmly. “She is more than suitable for you. Instead of dwelling on that Yu Yurou, focus on being with Yu Ling and don’t treat her as merely a substitute. However, there’s one thing you must understand - she is far harder to manage than Yu Yurou. Having such a woman by your side means you cannot slack off in your career, do you comprehend?”

Ye Huan looked astonished. “Mom, are you saying…you agree for her to be with me?”

Shen Man’s approval carried significant weight; her words clearly indicated that she considered Yu Ling a potential serious daughter-in-law for the Ye Family.

“Why wouldn’t I agree?” Recalling Mrs. Song’s expression earlier, Shen Man smiled contentedly. “Having a woman like her at your side will elevate your social standing immensely. Many would envy you.”

Shen Man scrutinized her son once again and added, “It’s fortunate you inherited good looks, which certainly helps in this aspect.”

Ye Huan remained speechless, silently acknowledging his mother’s blunt honesty.

As soon as Ye Huan and Shen Man left, Tong Ling’s demeanor towards Ye Xu became noticeably warmer. She first expressed her gratitude for the dress he had gifted her, then lamented wholeheartedly not being able to wear it…

“The dress is truly beautiful; I always dreamed of wearing such a fairy-like gown when I was younger. But as Ye Huan’s girlfriend, I couldn’t refuse the outfit he prepared for me.” Tong Ling’s expression conveyed deep regret. “Little gege, you’re not upset with me, are you?”

Ye Xu wasn’t actually surprised by this outcome; as long as Ye Huan was around, he would forever be the one rejected. The only thing he wanted to know was, “If he hadn’t prepared a dress for you, would you have worn the one I gifted you instead?”

Tong Ling replied without hesitation, “Of course! Your little gege, I love the dress you gave me the most!”

The corners of Ye Xu’s mouth curved slightly upward, but just as he was about to speak, an unexpected voice chimed in from beside them.

“Oh? And your favorite is the one he gave you?” Lu Yue had approached at some point and flashed a peculiar smile at Tong Ling. “I thought you liked the dress you’re wearing now the most. What, does Ye Huan’s choice not meet your expectations?”

Upon seeing Lu Yue, Ye Xu’s expression turned somewhat sour. He knew that Lu Yue and Ye Huan were childhood friends, and given their close bond, Lu Yue might have overheard Tong Ling’s words and come to defend Ye Huan.

However, Tong Ling’s focus wasn’t on his comment; she lightly patted her chest and shot Lu Yue an annoyed glare, rebuking him, “Why do you walk without making any sound? Suddenly appearing like that is so scary!”

“Are you really scared by me, with your boldness?” Lu Yue deliberately moved closer to Tong Ling again, his words carrying a suggestive undertone, “Is it because I interrupted something between you two?”

Ye Xu’s expression turned icy cold as he sternly commanded, “Stay away from her!”

“Mister Ye truly makes for an exemplary knight in shining armor.” With a light laugh, Lu Yue stepped back from Tong Ling and gestured towards Ye Xu, inviting, “May I speak with you privately, Mister Ye?”

There was little reason for Ye Xu to engage with Lu Yue, but if he refused, this guy would undoubtedly linger around. Preferring to understand Lu Yue’s intentions rather than let him continue bothering Tong Ling, Ye Xu decided to go along.

“I’ll be right back,” Ye Xu said to Tong Ling before following behind Lu Yue. The two found a secluded spot to talk.

Wasting no time on pleasantries, Ye Xu got straight to the point, “What do you want to say?”

Lu Yue took two glasses of wine from a passing waiter’s tray and handed one to Ye Xu, “I feel we could become quite good business partners, Mister Ye.”

Ye Xu scoffed at Lu Yue’s suggestion, “Cooperation? That won’t be necessary.”

How could he possibly collaborate with a friend of Ye Huan’s? Was Ye Huan attempting to extract information about his company using such a low-level tactic?

“I wonder if Mister Ye is aware of something.” Lu Yue turned briefly to glance at Tong Ling’s graceful figure in the distance. “Ring Ring is my fiancée.”

“Fiancée?” Hearing this, Ye Xu burst out laughing, “Isn’t that just idle gossip among your company staff? Do you really expect me to believe such a clumsy lie?”

Lu Yue sighed softly, “It’s true, what you say, but… I very much wish for that lie to become reality.”

Ye Xu’s brows furrowed deeply.

“My understanding of your feelings towards Ring Ring is clear,” Lu Yue pushed the glass of wine closer to Ye Xu. “Do you intend to silently stand behind her all your life, watching as she marries Ye Huan and becomes your sister-in-law?”

This time, Ye Xu accepted the glass. After scrutinizing Lu Yue’s expression, a hint of mocking amusement appeared in his deep gaze. “I didn’t realize Mr. Lu was so interested in my personal affairs…”

“You must have noticed how pleased Shen Man is with her,” Lu Yue said, aware that Ye Xu would find it hard to trust him. However, he didn’t need Ye Xu’s trust; their shared goal was enough. “Without Shen Man’s opposition, they might soon announce their engagement ceremony, and as for the wedding…it’s only a matter of time. Once married, if Ring Ring then reveals her true identity, what recourse will Shen Man have?”

“Ye Huan would become her rightful husband, standing proudly by her side just like today.”

Ye Xu raised an eyebrow slightly. “It seems Mister Lu has some plan to prevent this from happening.”

“Mister Ye, you’re a clever man.” Lu Yue cut straight to the point without beating around the bush. “Your reason for leaving the Ye Family aligns perfectly with my intentions.”

“My reason?”

“Yes, your aim is to bring down the Ye Family, turning it into a worthless mess. Naturally, once that happens, Ring Ring would leave Ye Huan.”

Ye Xu did not deny Lu Yue’s assumption. Ever since he renounced his inheritance rights, the Ye Family had lost all value to him.

“Overturning Shen Man and Ye Huan, a mother-son duo entrenched in power, is no easy feat for you alone, Mister Ye.” Lu Yue skillfully dangled his bait. “However, with my assistance, the situation could change dramatically.”

“Me?” Ye Xu sneered. “The Lu and Ye families have been close allies for generations. Could you really convince the entire Lu Family to turn against the Ye Family on your behalf?”

“This is my personal intention and has nothing to do with the Lu Family,” Lu Yue asserted confidently. “I have several promising companies under my control, along with my own capabilities and Ye Huan’s trust in me. With my assistance, Mister Ye, what difficulties should there be?”

“Your help…to me, it seems more like a trap.” Ye Xu needed some genuine assurance from Lu Yue. “How can I believe you’re truly offering aid?”

Before approaching Ye Xu, Lu Yue had prepared accordingly. He took out his phone and immediately sent a digital copy of a recent tender proposal project to Ye Xu.

“This is a bidding project the Ye Family has been pursuing. If Shen Man secures it, her position within the company would likely stabilize; however, if she fails…”

Ye Xu understood the implications without Lu Yue needing to spell them out. The board of directors already held significant reservations about Shen Man, and recently, as she gradually handed over her responsibilities to Ye Huan, the old shareholders on the board were unwilling to see that young upstart climb above them. They closely monitored both Shen Man and Ye Huan, hoping to catch any missteps.

Regardless of whether Shen Man or Ye Huan faltered, it was precisely the outcome Lu Yue desired to witness.

“I can provide you with funding to secure that project,” Lu Yue offered generously. “Consider this investment as a token of goodwill for our collaboration, how about it?”

Now that was quite a gesture! If Lu Yue’s intention was merely to trap Ye Huan, there would be no need for such an extravagant move. Ye Xu couldn’t help but elevate his opinion of Lu Yue while simultaneously becoming more cautious around him.

“With a friend like you, I almost feel sympathy for Ye Huan,” Ye Xu remarked.

“To a fruitful partnership?” Lu Yue raised his glass.

“Indeed, to a fruitful partnership.” Their glasses clinked together, each man silently thinking: After dealing with Ye Huan, you’re next.

“What are you looking at?” Wei Wei waved her hand in front of Tong Ling’s slightly distant gaze. “Why so lost in thought all by yourself?”

Tong Ling refocused, a light smile spreading across her face. “Nothing much, just anticipating some interesting developments ahead.”

“What kind of developments?” Recalling recent events, Wei Wei sighed exasperatedly at Tong Ling’s nonchalant expression. “Honestly, why aren’t you even worried?!”

Tong Ling blinked, puzzled. “What should I be worried about?”

“The Song family!” Wei Wei didn’t expect Tong Ling to show no concern; she herself began feeling anxious on her behalf. “You’ve offended their young master so deeply; Madame Song will undoubtedly cause trouble for you!”

“Don’t think this matter will just blow over! If the Ye Family values you, it might be fine, but if they don’t, the Song Family can easily teach someone a lesson!”

Tong Ling feigned surprise. “Would Madame Song really hold a grudge against me, a junior? Besides, not being with her son aligns with her wishes, doesn’t it?”

“It’s not that simple.” Wei Wei shook her head and lectured from the perspective of someone well-versed in high society circles. “Her disapproval of your relationship is one thing; refusing to give her face at the banquet is another. Imagine denying her son’s advances at the Song family’s own event—doesn’t that embarrass her greatly?”

“Given how eloquent you usually are, why stumble when it comes to matters of the heart? You could have been more tactful in your rejection. Doing so for a scumbag like Ye Huan was truly unworthy!” Wei Wei vented her frustration, clearly harboring no fondness for Ye Huan.

Tong Ling was fully aware of how poorly she had handled her rejection. The conflict could have been avoided from the start; considering Song Xingyi’s compliance, soothing him would have been effortless. But why did she choose this path? The larger the commotion at the banquet, the better. Even Wei Wei’s concern indicated that her actions were having the desired effect.

“I completely agree with Miss Gu’s sentiment.”

Perhaps Tong Ling had garnered too much attention tonight, as various individuals began approaching her to strike up conversations.

This time, agreeing with Wei Wei was none other than Ye Huan’s so-called “buddies” from the original plot. Since they had a good relationship with Yu Yurou, upon seeing her doppelgänger, they couldn’t resist coming over to taunt Tong Ling.

M-577, aware of the truth, typed: [Indeed, they intend to break you and Ye Huan apart.]

However, m-577 withheld the rest of the sentence: But their purpose isn’t to seek revenge for Yu Yurou; it’s to pursue you…

Having them automatically advance the plot without needing to seek them out was quite convenient for Tong Ling. She patiently awaited their remarks.

Under Tong Ling’s focused gaze, the faces of these wealthy young men inexplicably flushed red.

The first to speak was Jiang Chenrui. Although his looks didn’t quite match Ye Huan’s, he was still considered handsome by many. Holding a glass of wine, he wore a carefree and charming smile. “Miss Yu, you’re quite different from your sister.”

“Different?” Tong Ling asked. “Are you suggesting I don’t resemble my sister?”

“That’s just physical appearance; in other aspects, I’m completely different from Yurou.” Jiang Chenrui knew his next words would offend the elegant and beautiful woman before him, but to help her avoid a scoundrel, he braced himself for the risk of offending her. “Yu Yurou and Ye Huan are a loving couple, with Ye Huan’s heart solely devoted to her. Miss Yu, why involve yourself in their relationship?”

“Yurou and Ye Huan are truly well-matched, so there’s no point hanging onto one tree, little sister,” another friend, Hong Jun, advised. “Ye Huan used to bring Yurou out all the time; we can clearly see the depth of his feelings for her. There’s no room for anyone else between them.”

Tong Ling frowned slightly. “Are you… friends with Ye Huan?”

“I almost forgot to introduce myself. I’m Jiang Chenrui.” He extended his hand towards Tong Ling. “Nice to meet you.”

“I’m Hong Jun!”

“I’m Zhang Xiumao.”

“I’m…”

One by one, each member introduced themselves, forming a line to shake hands with Tong Ling.

Watching from the side, Wei Wei’s eyes twitched. “Have you forgotten that I’m here too?”

“How could we forget Miss Gu?” Jiang Chenrui smiled. “It’s just that we’re too familiar with you - there’s no need for introductions among friends.”

Wei Wei pursed her lips, “I see you all have ulterior motives…”

“How can you say that?” Jiang Chenrui steered the conversation back on track. “As Ye Huan’s friends, we genuinely want to persuade Miss Yu that you two are truly mismatched…”

Regardless of their intentions, if they could prevent Tong Ling from making foolish choices, it was for the best. Wei Wei decided not to dwell on other matters and joined Ye Huan’s friends in criticizing Tong Ling’s role as a substitute.

By the time Tong Ling endured through their relentless chatter, she felt completely numb.

Using the excuse of going to the restroom, she distanced herself from the group and vented bitterly to the system, “I’ve sacrificed way too much just to follow the plot! This is even worse than being cannon fodder in the original story; I’ve never encountered such incessantly nagging people!”

“Men, noisier than five hundred ducks combined!”

This was m-577’s first time witnessing Tong Ling caught off guard, and it gleefully responded, [Blame your own impeccable performance; they think you’re beyond redemption and feel compelled to rescue you from disaster!]

“Is it my fault for being too perfect?”

Just as m-577 was about to rebuke this shameless remark, its keen system senses detected something unusual nearby. It hastily warned, [Host, at six o’clock direction, someone is tracking you!]

“I know.” Tong Ling leisurely went to the restroom to touch up her makeup, showing no concern for the person outside as she exited. “I wonder if this sudden move is at Madame Song’s behest or my adorable little dog’s.”

A damp cloth was pressed against Tong Ling’s nose, releasing a sharp, sweet-smelling gas. Holding her breath, Tong Ling closed her eyes, feeling her body go limp and collapsing gracefully.

The figure behind her cautiously caught Tong Ling’s falling form without making a sound. Lifting her effortlessly, they navigated through the unwatched corridors, turning several times before disappearing into an unknown depth of the mansion.

In the banquet hall, Song Xingyi turned to listen to the report from someone beside him, finally revealing his first smile of the evening on his expressionless face.

“Mom, Dad, I’m not feeling well; I’ll head out now,” Song Xingyi said to his parents before hastily leaving the banquet hall.

Song’s father expressed some worry, “Is everything alright with Xingyi?”

Song’s mother’s eyes flickered reassuringly, “He’s fine. It’s already quite challenging for him to stay here for so long.”

“Sigh… Xingyi has been exceptionally mature tonight,” Song’s father reflected, his heart filled with sympathy for their son. “It’s unfortunate that Miss Yu fancies the Ye boy; otherwise, she’d be a perfect match for our Xingyi.”

Song’s mother chuckled softly, “Who knows, Miss Yu might still end up joining our Song family someday.”

“It all depends on whether Xingyi can seize the opportunity.”