Ye Sen had been appraising her without any pretense.
His gaze was sharp and dismissive, making Song Xi feel like a commodity.
She stood for a moment, feeling uncomfortable, then lowered her head and sat down.
It was then that Ye Sen finally spoke.
"Miss Song, how old are you this year?"
"In my early twenties."
Ye Sen was not satisfied with her vague answer.
"What do you do?"
"I haven't graduated from college yet."
"I heard you're an actress?"
This was not a matter of hearing; he clearly knew everything.
Song Xi didn't quite understand the point of his line of questioning, but she tried her best to maintain superficial politeness.
She smiled, "Yes."
As expected, Ye Sen let out a scoff.
Song Xi had assumed that Ye Sen, as a person of high standing, would possess excellent breeding. It seemed now that he was no different.
"Mr. Ye, if you have something to say, please say it directly. There's no need to beat around the bush."
Ye Sen's expression was contemptuous. He looked at her bright, unyielding features and stated frankly, "It's not that I discriminate against Miss Song's profession, but the Ye family simply cannot have anyone else involved with the entertainment industry."
Song Xi was momentarily stunned, not understanding what he meant.
Ye Sen changed the subject. "Last time I saw Miss Song and Mr. Lou, you seemed quite close. May I be so bold as to ask, what is your relationship?"
So that was his objective.
It seemed even the wealthy couldn't resist gossip.
Song Xi leaned back, her hands resting on the chair. Her dark hair cascaded down, making her fair skin and lively features even more striking.
"What do you think, Mr. Ye?"
Ye Sen had to admit that she did possess a certain allure.
No wonder even that blockhead Ye Hai was interested in her.
"Miss Song, I have no interest in riddles." His expression turned a bit cold.
Song Xi made a sound of surprise, her eyes innocent and guileless. "I thought Mr. Ye already knew."
She was holding a grudge.
Ye Sen gave her an extra look. Recalling how the usually calm and self-possessed Ye Hai had gotten angry for her sake, he couldn't help but deepen his tone.
"I know about the kidnapping incident."
Song Xi was surprised.
Ye Sen continued, "I can grant you one wish, as compensation."
This was indeed the way of the wealthy.
But this was also an opportunity!
Song Xi suppressed her emotions and feigned calmness. "I want... you to help my younger brother transfer to Yun Ji Hospital!"
Her records indicated that she did indeed have a younger brother. Ye Sen had expected her to ask for money.
He paused for a moment. "I can."
"But there's a condition."
It wasn't that simple, as expected.
"From now on, sever all ties with Ye Hai."
Song Xi's palm tightened. After a few seconds of hesitation, she agreed.
"...Alright."
Ye Sen watched Ye Hai, who had returned after finishing his breakfast, and composed himself. "Miss Song, I expect you to keep your word. Otherwise, I can revoke this agreement at any time."
"Big Brother."
Ye Hai, worried that Song Xi might be put in a difficult position, had finished his meal quickly. Before leaving, he had also packed some breakfast.
Ye Sen furrowed his brows. "I'm not hungry—"
"Here."
Unexpectedly, Ye Hai handed the breakfast directly to Song Xi.
Ye Sen: "..."
Song Xi glanced at Ye Sen, then at Ye Hai.
He must have run back, as his breathing was a little uneven.
"Miss Song." Ye Sen reminded her in a cold voice.
Song Xi lowered her gaze and stepped forward.
As they passed each other, she whispered an apology to Ye Hai, barely audible.
For her brother, she had no choice.
Ye Hai found it inexplicable.
He wanted to chase after her, but Ye Sen stopped him.
"Throw away the congee."
Ye Hai stood motionless, his tall figure gazing ahead.
Ye Sen said coldly, "Throw it away!"
Ye Hai was startled and reluctantly discarded the warm congee into the trash.
Ye Sen looked at his disoriented demeanor and reprimanded him, "Ye Hai, mind your position!"
"Keep your distance from her from now on."
"Big Brother."
"Don't make me say it a second time."
Although Ye Hai was unwilling in his heart, he dared not defy his brother. His tall frame stooped, a hint of loneliness emerging.
Ye Sen felt a pang of sympathy and said, "Next time, I'll introduce you to someone better."
Ye Hai fell silent. He had been stubborn and single-minded since he was a child.
Ye Sen shook his head helplessly. "Has the Liu family been investigated?"
"No..." he replied, his voice low and dejected. "Perhaps it's related to Lou Yu Ming..."
Before he could finish, Ye Sen scoffed, "Do you think everyone is like you? Lou Yu Ming has been in the business world for many years; he wouldn't make such a drastic move for one woman! Continue the investigation!"
"...Yes."
At that moment, the operating room door opened.
The doctor emerged. "Mr. Ye, the child might not make it."
Ye Sen's brow furrowed, a glint of ice in his eyes. "Where is she?"
"Miss Liu is fine."
He pondered for a moment. "Let it be."