Most of the women around Lou Yuming were heavily made up, each possessing an extraordinary aura.
Ge Baitao said, "These young ladies from prestigious families, they act so noble and reserved normally, but the moment they see Lou Yuming, they cling to him like a burr, not caring about gossip. Let's go, Xixi, I'll take you to greet Grandpa."
Song Xi nodded. Before leaving, she couldn't help but glance back in that direction.
Indeed, even daughters of wealthy families were flocking to him. Lou Yuming, how captivating he must be.
The white silhouette disappeared from view. Lou Yuming narrowed his dark eyes and pushed away the woman beside him, "Move aside."
...
Second floor.
In the study hung a pipa worth millions, crafted entirely from transparent jade, flawless and impeccable. Song Xi's gaze was immediately captivated the moment she stepped inside.
She hadn't expected Ge Baitao's family to possess such a rare treasure.
Her gaze was too blatant, and Elder Ge raised an eyebrow, asking proactively, "Can you play?"
Song Xi shook her head modestly.
If such a precious item were to break, she wouldn't be able to compensate even if she sold herself.
Ge Baitao had never seen Song Xi play the pipa and was very curious. "Xixi, if you can play, give it a try. I want to see!"
Before Song Xi could agree, Elder Ge had the butler retrieve the pipa and hand it to her.
The old gentleman said kindly, "Just play whatever you like, consider it a way to pass the time."
Song Xi was both flattered and at a loss.
The pipa felt cool to the touch all over. She held it carefully, her toes curling.
Facing the expectant and eager gazes of the few people present, Song Xi, holding the pipa, slowly stood up and bowed slightly, "Please forgive my amateur performance."
Her movements were practiced, clearly showing some familiarity. As for her skill, it was truly hard to tell.
Lines of laughter appeared at the corners of Elder Ge's eyes. He quietly instructed the butler, "Go and invite that child from the Qu family in."
This was a good opportunity.
Song Xi played two conservative pieces, not daring to show off too much, afraid that Elder Ge, who seemed to have hidden depths, would be unimpressed by her amateurish performance.
Unexpectedly, Elder Ge, still wanting more, deliberately spoke sharply to provoke her.
"Young lady, you're being too timid. Show us some real skill, don't disgrace this pipa."
When it came to this point, it would be impolite not to play seriously.
So, Song Xi took a deep breath. When she opened her eyes again, her gaze became sharp.
The moment the brilliant and intense music surged forth, Elder Ge's narrowed eyes suddenly widened.
As the melody rose and fell, Ge Baitao's expression shifted from surprise to astonishment, and finally to admiration.
Xixi... she was truly amazing!!
In the hallway.
Qu Qi followed the butler, his face full of reluctance.
What did Ge Baitao want now?
However, as soon as he reached the doorway, he was stunned by the passionate music from inside.
He had eagerly expected to hear a master musician, but when he saw Song Xi's face, he froze on the spot.
How could it be her?
The woman sat elegantly and confidently, her fair, slender fingers flying across the strings, as if leaving afterimages.
Although Qu Qi didn't understand musical instruments, he could tell that this was one of the ten famous pipa pieces: "Ambush from Ten Sides."
He never expected this woman to possess such a talent!
Elder Ge beckoned him over. Qu Qi bowed politely and then walked into the study.
After the piece concluded, warm applause filled the study.
Elder Ge said with satisfaction, "The younger generation is truly formidable."
To play the pipa so masterfully at such a young age, this girl was extraordinary.
He glanced at Qu Qi; the young man's soul seemed to have been captured.
It seemed there might be something between these two.
Ge Baitao beamed with pride, "Xixi, Grandpa rarely praises people. You are simply amazing!!"
Song Xi curtsied, "Just a small trick, Grandpa Ge, you jest."
"Modest, very modest."
This girl was not only good at playing the pipa but also humble in her personality. She was a perfect match for Qu Qi!
Elder Ge became even more pleased with the connection he was trying to make. He greeted them, "Xiao Qi, this is Song Xi, Miss Song. This is Qu Qi, the youngest child from the Qu family. I mentioned him last time; I wonder if you remember."
A memory flashed by. So it was him!
Song Xi smiled awkwardly.
Qu Qi was puzzled. While silently repeating her name in his mind, he clearly understood that this girl was not easy to deal with, especially given the awkward encounter he still vividly remembered.
But her performance of "Ambush from Ten Sides" earlier had truly stirred his heart. Qu Qi admitted that he had developed a trace of fondness for her.
However, after seeing Ge Baitao's intimidating glare, he was so terrified that he hesitated to extend his hand to greet Song Xi.
Elder Ge thought Qu Qi was shy and felt a touch of disdain. Had he lost his manly spirit after going abroad?
Just then, the butler approached and whispered into his ear, "Mr. Lou has arrived."