C17 She Doubted

The lights on the runway were soft yet bright, perfectly complementing Ann Xiaomin, who seemed born for this stage. She walked with poise and confidence, the gown's tailored design accentuating her graceful figure. Yet, it was her face, adorned only with lipstick, that truly captivated the audience.

Her features were delicate and spirited, her fair skin glowing with a subtle radiance, reminiscent of a flawless, translucent gem. Without heavy makeup, her natural beauty was striking and mesmerizing.

It was the first time Gu Junbai saw Ann Xiaomin without makeup. Although Ann Xiaomin resembled Hsu Yaying, they were distinct individuals. When Ann impersonated Hsu Yaying, she always wore heavy makeup. It's often said that makeup is one of the great illusions, and it was only thanks to Gu Junbai's keen eye that he recognized Ann.

Gu Junbai was taken aback, astonished by her genuine beauty and even more surprised to learn she was a model.

Gu Junbai was familiar with Hsu Yaying's background. The Hsu family was once a prominent name in the capital, later moving abroad for business, only returning in recent years. Hsu Yaying herself was a renowned talent, holding dual master's degrees from Harvard, fluent in multiple languages, and with a wide range of interests. She was particularly accomplished in piano, having won numerous awards, and was recognized as a pianist.

It was precisely because Hsu Yaying was so exceptional that Gu Hong insisted he marry her.

Such a remarkable and elegant woman was now strutting down the runway as a model. What was going on?

Gu Junbai's sharp and intense eyes were fixed on Ann Xiaomin on stage, his brow slightly furrowed.

Despite her experience as a freelance model, this was Ann Xiaomin's first time on such a prestigious and luxurious runway. She was fortunate enough to catch the designer's eye and was chosen as the finale model, wearing the most beautiful dress of the fashion show.

Ann Xiaomin's palms were sweaty, but she performed well, walking with perfect poise to the center of the runway. She quickly sensed a chaotic gaze from the audience fixed on her, and when she glanced back, her heart skipped several beats.

In the front row, the man's physique aside, his breathtakingly handsome face was enough to drive any woman wild. It was truly perfect, like a meticulously crafted work of art, flawless from every angle.

How could a man be this handsome?

A swarm of reporters and many in the audience were snapping photos of Ann Xiaomin on the runway, more accurately, of the gown she was wearing. Ann Xiaomin showcased the dress's beauty to its fullest, leaving everyone in awe.

Ann Xiaomin reluctantly tore her gaze away from the handsome man and headed back. By the time she left, it was already past ten at night.

Luh Xinxin had sent a message saying she had to leave early due to an urgent matter, so Ann had to make her way back alone.

Mr. Lei, acting as the intermediary, insisted on accompanying Ann. Despite her attempts to decline, she had no choice but to agree and walked with him to the parking garage.

"I'll make sure you and Xinxin get paid for tonight's work by tomorrow," Mr. Lei said, his eyes lingering on Ann with growing interest.

Ann suppressed her discomfort. "Thank you, Mr. Lei."

Mr. Lei, acting overly familiar, said, "No need to be so formal, Ann. You did great tonight. Why don't you skip going home and let me treat you to a celebration?"

Ann's internal alarms went off, and she immediately refused with a cold expression, "No, thank you."

Sensing her resistance, Mr. Lei switched tactics. "Alright, maybe another time. Let's get you home for now."