197 The Pieces 20 (2/2)

Xiu Ling observed the exchange between two and she understood why her best friend had been fooled by Qing Qing for so long. Yi Nian had at most 30 minutes of interaction with Qing Qing but he had been put under her spell already. The young woman's technique couldn't be underestimated.

Xiu Ling cleared her throat and she said, ”Yi Nian, thank you for showing such consideration for our guest. You may leave now.”

”Yes, Miss Xiu Ling.” Yi Nian straightened up and left the room but not before turning back to glance at Qing Qing with worry in his eyes.

”Sister Xiu Ling...” Qing Qing began in a soft voice, ”Why have you called for me? Is it because of something I've done, in that case, I apologize. But Sister Xiu Ling, please understand that I bear you no ill intention. If anything, Sister Xiu Ling is my role model in life and there's no greater wish in my life than to be given a chance to learn from Sister Xiu Ling.”

Qing Qing would have gesticulated before Xiu Ling if it could help plead her case. Powerful individuals, be it male or female, liked to be flattered and Qing Qing knew the exact words to say. Incidentally, this was how Qing Qing managed to get so close to Joann. On top of being her friend, Qing Qing showed a servile admiration towards Joann.

Unfortunately, Xiu Ling was not Joann and the same tactic did not work on her.

”Miss Qing Qing, please cut the act,” Xiu Ling replied with a clear voice. ”Let's not waste our time with smoke and mirrors. I believe you know perfectly well why I've asked to see you.”

Qing Qing froze after Xiu Ling said that. It was as if her brain had shut down temporarily and she needed some time to process the information. After enough time had passed, Qing Qing picked up the cup of coffee from the table and took a sip with a smirk. ”I should have known this was a trap. Well, what do you want? Are you going to take revenge on your friend's behalf?

”Xiu Ling, is it? I'll have you know, even though you're richer than I am, it does not mean that I'll allow you to step all over me. If you dare to threaten me in any way, I have my finger on my phone's emergency button and it's connected to the police hotline.”

Qing Qing scoffed, ”I despise women like yourself who think they can do anything they want simply because the man you f*ck happens to be a powerful one.”