Lu'an Guapian

Chapter 11: Lu'an Guapian

After establishing the relationship, Gu Yanchen began to intentionally or unintentionally bring Shen Qingci into his social circle.

He first took her to several small dinners in the industry and introduced her to some of his partners and friends. Although Shen Qingci was a little reserved, he won everyone's favor with his gentle temperament and unique insights into tea.

That day, Gu Yanchen's childhood friend and partner, Lin Hao, held a birthday party and specially invited Shen Qingci to attend. The party was held in Lin Hao's private villa, and the attendees were all Gu Yanchen and Lin Hao's relatives and friends. The atmosphere was relaxed and warm.

Shen Qingci was a little nervous. She pulled Gu Yanchen's arm and asked in a low voice: "Is it okay for me to dress like this? Is it too formal?" She was wearing a white dress today and had light makeup on, looking fresh and refined.

Gu Yanchen held her hand and said gently, "It's very beautiful, just right. Don't be nervous, we are all family."

Entering the villa, Lin Hao saw them immediately and greeted them warmly: "Yan Chen, Qing Ci, you're finally here! Qing Ci, happy birthday!" He handed over a beautifully wrapped gift box, "Just a little gift, I wish you and Yan Chen happiness."

"Thank you, Mr. Lin." Shen Qingci took the gift somewhat embarrassedly.

"Why call me Mr. Lin? It's too formal. Just call me Lin Hao like Yan Chen." Lin Hao said with a smile.

At the party, everyone greeted Shen Qingci enthusiastically. Gu Yanchen stayed by her side the entire time, introducing everyone to her, occasionally serving her food and drinks, and attentively taking care of her feelings.

Shen Qingci gradually relaxed and had a great time chatting with Gu Yanchen's friends. They were all very interested in the "Wanxiang Tea House" run by Shen Qingci, and they all said they would definitely visit it in the future.

In the middle of the meal, Gu Yanchen went to toast with his friends, and Shen Qingci sat alone on the sofa to rest. At this time, a girl dressed in fashionable clothes came over. She was Gu Yanchen's cousin Su Manni.

"You are Shen Qingci, right?" Su Manni looked Shen Qingci up and down, her tone carrying a subtle hostility. "My brother has a very special taste. He actually likes a plain and simple type like you."

Shen Qingci was stunned for a moment. She didn't expect to encounter such a situation. She smiled awkwardly: "Hello, Miss Su."

"Don't call me Miss Su, I don't deserve it." Su Manni sneered, "I heard that you run a teahouse? Or did you inherit it from your grandmother? I say, Shen Qingci, you are not deliberately approaching my brother because you are interested in his money, right?"

Shen Qingci's face darkened instantly: "Miss Su, please be careful with your words. Yan Chen and I are truly in love, and money has nothing to do with it."

"True love?" Su Manni sneered. "Do you know what my brother's status is? Do you think you two are suitable? I advise you to be sensible and take the initiative to leave my brother, so as to avoid humiliation in the future."

At this moment, Gu Yanchen walked over and happened to hear Su Manni's words. His face instantly turned ugly: "Manni, what nonsense are you talking about?"

When Su Manni saw Gu Yanchen, the hostility on her face subsided a little, but she still said unconvincedly: "Brother, I'm doing this for your own good! She's not worthy of you at all!"

"None of your business is my business." Gu Yanchen's tone was stern. "Qingci is my girlfriend. I don't allow you to say that about her. Apologize to her immediately."

Su Manni didn't expect Gu Yanchen to defend Shen Qingci so much. She pouted in grievance: "I'm not apologizing! I'm telling the truth!"

"You must apologize!" Gu Yanchen's attitude was firm.

Su Manni looked at Gu Yanchen's serious expression, then looked at Shen Qingci, and finally said reluctantly: "I'm sorry."

Gu Yanchen ignored her and turned to hold Shen Qingci's hand, asking with concern: "Qingci, are you okay? Don't listen to her nonsense."

Shen Qingci shook his head and forced a smile: "I'm fine."

But she still felt a little uncomfortable. Su Manni's words were like a thorn, piercing her heart.

After the party, on the way back, Shen Qingci remained silent. Gu Yanchen noticed her unhappiness and held her hand, saying, "Qingci, I'm sorry I've wronged you. Manni is just spoiled and speaks without restraint. Don't take it to heart."

"I know." Shen Qingci said softly, "I just feel that the gap between us is indeed huge. Although her words may not sound good, they are not without reason."

"Silly girl, don't think too much." Gu Yanchen stopped the car, turned around and looked at her seriously, "I like you as a person, no matter your identity or background. In my heart, you are the best, no one can compare to you."

He paused and pulled out a tea can from the back seat. "This is the Lu'an Guapian tea I bought especially for you. I know you've been working hard lately. Make a cup and relax."

Shen Qingci took the can and opened it. The tea leaves inside were flat and straight, with a bright emerald green color. She knew that Lu'an Guapian was one of China's ten famous teas, with a refreshing and sweet taste and a good calming effect.

After returning home, Shen Qingci brewed a cup of Lu'an Guapian tea. Watching the tea leaves slowly unfurl in the water, the clear, emerald green tea soup exuded a refreshing aroma. She took a sip, and the refreshing taste instantly dispelled the haze in her heart.

She knew that Gu Yanchen truly loved her. Although they might encounter various obstacles, as long as they trusted and supported each other, they would be able to overcome all difficulties.

This cup of sweet Lu'an Guapian tea also witnessed a small test in their relationship, making them cherish each other even more.