Chapter 109: Shards of Glass Scattered Everywhere

“I think we might as well just fire them,” Yang Lan said, her sharp gaze sweeping over the group.

Ye Hua nodded lightly in agreement.

Ye Zema leaned over, gently patting Yang Lan on the back as he spoke softly, “Mom, there’s really no need to be jealous of Lu Yao. Dad only treats her like a daughter, perhaps because she looks a little like Second Brother’s mother. He just wants to make up for his past mistakes by being kind to her.”

If Ye Zema had said nothing, things might have been better; his words instantly darkened Yang Lan’s expression.

Even Ye Hua’s face was clouded with displeasure. He said with a hint of disdain, “Second Brother, if you don’t know how to talk, it’s better to say less.”

Ye Zema forced an awkward smile, silently wondering why speaking the truth had offended the both of them. Women, he thought, truly are unfathomable creatures.

Ye Hua glanced at the champagne tower nearby, a cold smile curling his lips. Leaning in close to Yang Lan’s ear, he whispered, “I wonder what would happen if that beautiful dress of hers got stained by the champagne tower?”

Yang Lan’s gaze grew icy as she stared at the cascading glasses, a plan forming in her mind.

The lights of the hall dimmed.

The master of ceremonies took the stage, announcing, “Dear family members, tonight we gather here to welcome a new member to our family.”

Spotlights swept over Lu Yao and Ye Yingtang.

It was Lu Yao’s first time under such intense scrutiny, and nerves fluttered in her heart. Ye Yingtang offered her an encouraging, kindly smile, and led her by the hand to the main podium.

Taking the microphone, Ye Yingtang addressed the crowd, “Good evening, everyone. First, thank you all for your hard work and dedication to the Ye Group. Secondly, I’d like to introduce an outstanding new member who is every bit as exceptional as the rest of you. She is…”

He paused for a moment, looking at Lu Yao and smiling gently before continuing, “The new legal representative of Ye Group—Lu Yao, our esteemed Attorney Lu. Let’s give her a warm round of applause.”

The crowd erupted in enthusiastic applause at his words.

Lu Yao felt the weight of all those inquisitive eyes upon her; her movements were stiff, reminiscent of her very first appearance in court. But the nervousness quickly subsided, and she steadied herself.

She picked up the microphone, speaking at a measured pace, “My name is Lu Yao, and I am the newly appointed legal representative of Ye Group. If any of you have legal questions, please do not hesitate to approach me. I will do my utmost to resolve your concerns. I also hope everyone will cooperate with the legal team so that Ye Group can reach even greater heights.”

Once again, applause thundered through the room.

The master of ceremonies then invited Ye Zehong, Yang Lan, and the others to the stage to celebrate with champagne.

Yang Lan and Ye Hua exchanged a glance before stepping onto the stage arm in arm, taking their place behind Lu Yao.

A hostess approached, carrying two bottles of champagne—one handed to Lu Yao, the other to Ye Yingtang.

Before pouring, Ye Yingtang smiled at Lu Yao with fatherly affection. “Lu Yao, on behalf of everyone at Ye Group, I warmly welcome you.”

Flustered and deeply grateful, Lu Yao returned his smile. “Thank you, Chairman Ye, for your kindness.”

Together, they poured the champagne into the tower—pale golden liquid flowing from the top glass to the next, and so on, in a never-ending cascade.

Suddenly, the hostess behind them, holding the tray, was shoved by someone. She stumbled forward, crashing into Lu Yao.

Completely off guard, Lu Yao was knocked toward the champagne tower. Countless glasses tumbled to the floor with a shattering crash, the sound of breaking crystal piercing and chilling.

Shards of glass flew everywhere, slashing the exposed skin on Lu Yao’s arms.

(End of this chapter)