Hidden truth, intricate love

As night fell, the lights in the lobby of the Sena Building shone brightly, and a grand charity dinner was about to begin. Su Wanqing stood in a corner of the hall, quietly observing everything before her. She wore a simple yet elegant black evening gown, her long hair simply tied up, revealing her fair neck. Although she appeared calm on the outside, her heart was turbulent.

Nana, the woman currently at Gu Beichen's side, had already caused quite a stir at the banquet. She wore a gorgeous purple gown, the hem adorned with sparkling crystals, like the brightest star in the night sky. Her red lips parted slightly, her eyes revealing an undeniable confidence and pride. It was as if she was declaring to everyone that she was the only one in the spotlight tonight.

Gu Beichen stood beside her, his black suit highlighting his stern demeanor. His eyes were cold, as if he had no interest in anything around him. Only when he occasionally glanced at Nana would a hint of tenderness flash in his eyes.

Su Wanqing took a deep breath. She knew tonight would be a crucial moment in her plan. She needed to find an opportunity at this banquet to expose the Gu family's secrets and avenge her father. However, she also knew that this would not be an easy task.

With the host's announcement, the banquet officially began. Guests toasted to celebrate this charity night. Su Wanqing blended in with the crowd, trying not to attract attention. Her eyes occasionally swept over Gu Beichen and Nana, searching for an opportunity.

Nana obviously noticed Su Wanqing's presence, and a hint of disdain flashed in her eyes. She walked over to Su Wanqing and said in a feigned warmth, "Wanqing, you look truly radiant tonight. But are you sure you're ready? This isn't an occasion for just anyone."

Su Wanqing smiled slightly and replied, "Nana, thank you for your concern. I believe I can handle it."

Nana sneered and turned away, but her eyes were full of provocation. Su Wanqing knew that Nana would not let her go easily, so she had to be careful.

Midway through the banquet, the host announced the official start of the charity auction. Nana took the stage, hammer in hand, her voice echoing through the hall as she introduced each item. Guests toasted in celebration, the atmosphere warm and inviting.

When a precious famous painting was displayed, Nana deliberately turned her gaze to Su Wanqing and said provocatively: "Wanqing, aren't you the new special assistant? Why don't you also participate and contribute to charity." There was a hint of unquestionable command in her voice, intending to embarrass Su Wanqing in front of everyone.

Su Wanqing took a deep breath, her eyes clear of panic. She knew this was a test, but also a chance to showcase herself. She smiled faintly, gracefully raised her bidding card, and said calmly, "Of course, I'm happy to contribute to charity."

The auction began, and the price climbed rapidly. Su Wanqing raised the price slowly and steadily, each increase just right, neither too aggressive nor too stingy. Her behavior attracted the attention of the surrounding guests, who began to whisper about the new special assistant.

Su Wanqing's strategy didn't demonstrate her financial strength, but it also didn't expose her limitations. She skillfully controlled the pace of the auction by observing the bidding patterns of other bidders. She knew that true power lies not in a single high bid but in sustained influence and control.

With each bid Su Wanqing made, the guests began to re-evaluate her. She was no longer a simple special assistant, but a strategic and financially capable competitor. Her image gradually became established in the minds of the guests, and she became a force that could not be ignored.

Nana watched Su Wanqing's performance and felt a little frustrated. She hadn't expected Su Wanqing to be able to handle her provocation so calmly. A flash of surprise flashed in Nana's eyes, but she quickly regained her confidence and continued to preside over the auction.

Just as the price approached one million, Su Wanqing suddenly stopped bidding. She calmly observed the other guests' reactions and found that they also seemed confused by her sudden stop. Nana's eyes flashed with surprise; she didn't expect Su Wanqing to give up so quickly.

However, at this moment, an unexpected figure joined the auction. A mysterious guest raised his sign and directly raised the price to 1.5 million.

"One million and a half million!" The host's voice echoed in the hall, and all eyes were focused on this mysterious guest.

As the auction progressed, Nana's provocations put Su Wanqing in a difficult position. Just as Su Wanqing seemed about to succumb to the pressure, a voice broke the silence: "One million and a half million!" All eyes turned to the bidder—a graceful man with a look of determination and familiarity.

Su Wanqing's eyes met the man's, and they instantly lit up. This was Li Ming, her childhood friend from the orphanage. They had once dreamed of changing the world together. Li Ming's appearance was not only a pleasant surprise, but also a powerful support.

Li Ming, a successful businessman, has never forgotten his days in the orphanage. He has been keeping an eye on Su Wanqing, knowing her revenge plan, and decides to help her at a critical moment. His wealth and influence become a valuable resource for Su Wanqing.

Nana was shocked by this sudden turn of events. She hadn't expected Su Wanqing to have such a supporter, especially one so influential. Her confidence began to waver, but she didn't give up. Instead, she became even more determined to uncover Su Wanqing's secret.

Gu Beichen watched all this with a cold eye. He was curious about Li Ming's appearance. He began to reassess Su Wanqing, realizing that she might be more complicated than he expected. His indifferent attitude began to change, and he developed a new interest in Su Wanqing.

Su Wanqing used Li Ming's help to not only win respect at the auction but also establish her own image among the guests. She knew that this was only the first step and she needed to act more cautiously and use Li Ming's resources and information to advance her plan.

Nana's face turned a little ugly. She didn't expect someone to offer such a high price. She turned to look at Gu Beichen, hoping that he would bid, but Gu Beichen remained indifferent and did not respond.

In the end, the famous painting was sold for 1.5 million and was purchased by Li Ming. Su Wanqing breathed a sigh of relief, knowing that she had successfully resolved Nana's provocation.

The banquet continued, and the guests began to dance and enjoy this wonderful night. Su Wanqing took the opportunity to approach several of Gu Beichen's assistants, trying to get more information from them.

She skillfully talked to them and gradually won their trust. She found that although they were loyal to Gu Beichen, they were not completely satisfied with Nana. She realized that this might be an opportunity for her to get closer to the truth.

At this moment, Nana reappeared in front of Su Wanqing. Her eyes were filled with anger: "Wanqing, your performance tonight was truly impressive. But do you think this is the end?"

Su Wanqing replied calmly, "Nana, I just want to do my part for charity. I believe you do too."

Nana sneered: "Humph, you'd better be careful and don't get yourself into unnecessary trouble."

Su Wanqing smiled slightly and said nothing more. She knew that Nana's threat was just the beginning and she had to be more careful.

As time passed, the banquet gradually drew to a close. Guests began to leave, and Su Wanqing prepared to depart as well. She knew that tonight was just the beginning, and she would need more patience and wisdom to uncover the Gu family's secrets and avenge her father. She took a deep breath and walked out of the auction with determination.

In a quiet corner of the hall, Su Wanqing finally found Li Ming. He was dressed in a smart suit and walked towards her with a smile. Su Wanqing's face showed an unconcealable joy, and she hurried forward to greet him.

"Li Ming!" Su Wanqing called out his name excitedly, and the two of them hugged each other tightly. This hug seemed to travel through time, bringing them back to the days in the orphanage, when they were the closest of friends and comrades.

They found a quiet seat and sat down. Su Wanqing asked curiously, "Why are you here? I didn't expect to meet you in such an occasion."

Li Ming smiled and replied, "I've been following you, Wanqing. When I heard you were going to this party, I knew this was a good opportunity for me to support you."

They recalled their days in the orphanage, their laughter and tears, and their dreams for the future. Li Ming told Su Wanqing how he built his business empire step by step, but he never forgot their friendship and their shared dreams.

Li Ming looked at Su Wanqing seriously and said, "Wanqing, no matter how dangerous your revenge plan is, I will stand by you. You are not fighting alone."

Su Wanqing felt a warm current surge in her heart. She said gratefully, "Li Ming, I really don't know how to thank you. Your presence has given me great courage and strength."

They began to discuss their future plans, and Li Ming provided some inside information about the Gu family, which was invaluable to Su Wanqing. Both of them were very happy about this meeting. Su Wanqing knew that with Li Ming's support, her road to revenge would no longer be lonely.

After Li Ming left, Su Wanqing stood at the door of the hall, looking at the stars in the night sky, her heart filled with new strength and hope. She knew that no matter how difficult the road ahead was, she would bravely go on.