Manipulative Harem God

Chapter 324 Concert (2)

Zhou Jiajia, microphone in hand, seized the moment. "Looks like we've got some VIPs in the house! How about a round of applause for Zhang Wei and Xiong Mei?" The crowd responded with an enthusiastic ovation.

Xiong Mei, slightly flustered, managed a wave while Zhang Wei nodded appreciatively. The sea of fans, electrified by the unexpected spectacle, continued their applause.

Zhou Jiajia resumed her performance, seamlessly transitioning back to her scheduled setlist. The atmosphere inside Century Stadium became a fusion of music, cheers, and dazzling lights.

Zhang Wei and Xiong Mei, now part of the spectacle, settled into the rhythm of the concert, enjoying the unique experience.

In the midst of the vibrant concert atmosphere, Hu Ning observed the unexpected spotlight on Zhang Wei and Xiong Mei.

She couldn't conceal a sigh, her shoulders slumping as a bitter smile touched her lips. "Zara, is this how you keep your relationship with him hidden?" she murmured to herself, wearied by the unfolding scenario.

Backstage, Sun Qiang, sitting with a puzzled frown, questioned Hu Ning. "Who are those man and woman? Do you know them?"

Hu Ning turned around, feigning ignorance. "I have no idea," she replied, her words carefully chosen to keep Sun Qiang at bay.

To ensure his compliance, she added, "They seem like old friends of Zara. Investigate, but be cautious not to upset her."

Sun Qiang's expression twitched, but he persisted, turning to Wei Jun. "Wei Jun, can you look them up for me?"

"Right away, young master Sun!" Wei Jun responded, swiftly grabbing a tablet and delving into the database. After a thorough search, he presented the findings to Sun Qiang.

Sun Qiang, perplexed, read through Xiong Mei's information. "An ordinary high school student?" His confusion deepened as he perused Zhang Wei's details. "What is this, Wei Jun? Are you playing games with me?"

Wei Jun shook his head earnestly. "Young Master, you need your father's help to access more detailed information. I can't assist with that."

Frustrated, Sun Qiang frowned and begrudgingly accepted the limitations imposed by the lack of access.

The mysterious background of Zhang Wei remained elusive as of now...

_____

As the clock struck 10:30 pm, the vibrant lights of Century Stadium gradually dimmed, bringing an end to the exhilarating concert.

The departing audience carried the echoes of melodies and the energy of the performance with them.

Backstage, Zhou Jiajia navigated through the maze of bustling crew members and changing rooms.

She exchanged her dazzling stage attire for something more comfortable, the air still buzzing with the excitement of the show.

Meanwhile, Hu Ning found herself reluctantly seated beside Sun Qiang at a table backstage.

The room, once filled with the pre-concert hustle, now simmered down into a backstage afterparty.

Sun Qiang bombarded Hu Ning with questions, and she responded with reserved brevity, her eyes occasionally glancing toward the changing room area.

Sun Qiang leaned in, curiosity evident in his voice, "Ning, who were those two? Friends of Zhou Jiajia, you said? They seemed more than that."

Hu Ning sighed, "Sun Qiang, my role is to keep an eye on Zhou Jiajia, not play matchmaker or gossipmonger. I don't know more than you do."

Sun Qiang's persistence persisted, "There's something unusual about them, don't you think? Find out more about that man and the woman. Their presence is more than coincidental."

Hu Ning raised an eyebrow, "You sound paranoid. Maybe they're just fans or distant acquaintances."

Sun Qiang's eyes narrowed, "I don't believe in coincidences, Hu Ning. Investigate thoroughly, and remember, my father is watching, too."

Hu Ning nodded, her frustration growing. "I'll do what I can, but don't expect miracles."

"That would do," Sun Qiang relaxed, finding a satisfied answer, before his face suddenly lit up with a smile.

*Boom!*

Wei Jun theatrically placed a small cake between them, catching Hu Ning off guard.

"What's this for?" Hu Ning asked, her brows furrowed.

Zhou Jiajia, not known for elaborate birthday celebrations, couldn't be the reason.

So, for whom?

Sun Qiang grinned, "It's been a year since we last engaged, Hu Ning. Did you forget?"

!?

Hu Ning's eyes widened slightly in realization, "Oh, it's been a year already?" She couldn't believe how time had flown.

Sun Qiang chuckled, "Time flies when you're having fun, right?" He motioned for Wei Jun to light the candle on the cake.

Hu Ning forced a smile, "Yeah, fun," she muttered under her breath, more to herself than anyone else.

Sun Qiang, seemingly oblivious to her inner thoughts, leaned closer, "Make a wish, Ning."

She hesitated for a moment, looking at the flickering candle.

Closing her eyes, she made a silent wish to never see him again and blew out the candle.

Sun Qiang clapped, "Happy work anniversary, Ning! Let's make the upcoming year even more exciting."

Hu Ning, still feeling uneasy, managed a polite smile. "Thank you, Sun Qiang. I'll do my best."

________

As the clock inched toward midnight, the cityscape of Dongjiang shimmered beneath the moonlight. Zhang Wei arranged a dedicated driver to escort Xiong Mei back to the hotel.

Meanwhile, Lisa, feeling fatigued, opted for a quiet night in, missing the concert.

In the heart of the stadium, Zhang Wei's eyes darted to the ticking clock, realizing the impending arrival of a new day. The promise of a present for Zhou Jiajia lingered in his thoughts, prompting him to prepare for the celebration.

[What present would you give her, host?]

Zhang Wei nonchalantly shrugged, "No idea, let's just take her for a drive."

[Would that suffice?]

A subtle smile graced Zhang Wei's face as he responded, "System, you need to understand your own species. Happiness is a subjective state of mind, and people often don't recognize what truly brings them joy. Sometimes, even the simplest gestures—like a leisurely drive through the city—can paint a smile that outshines the grandest gifts."

[You are right, host!]

The system acknowledged, pondering the intricacies of human emotions. Zhang Wei's wealth of experiences seemed to stretch as vast as the endless night sky.

Is this what they refer to as... experience?