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CHAPTER 504
The upscale restaurant was a symphony of soft, ambient lighting and the gentle hum of conversation.
White tablecloths and sparkling crystal-adorned each table, and the aroma of exquisite cuisine wafted through the air.
It was the kind of place reserved for power couples and those looking to impress.
Andromeda couldn't help but feel a sense of awe as she sat across from Liu Xueyi, her heart racing with excitement.
He said she would like it and she really did. Its class was top-notch, something she found hard to comprehend till now that she was part of the high class and on her own terms and money.
Dressed in his impeccably tailored grey suit, Liu Xueyi, looked every bit as his identity accompanied by his sharp jawline, and piercing gaze.
Yet, when he smiled at Andromeda, his eyes held a warmth that made her feel special like she was the only person in the room.
They were in the midst of a captivating conversation, their voices low and intimate, sharing stories of their childhood.
"Oh really. Wow. I still recall the animations from our time. Heaven knew they were bliss," Liu Xueyi stated.
"Exactly. Most of the animations or cartoons for kids these days don't compare to back then. One may speak about the graphics but storyline and stuff, it was better in those days. Gosh, I miss my childhood," she heaved a sigh.
Liu Xueyi's smile never faltered, staring at her slightly exhausted self.
"That was fun. Thanks for making me remember." She reached for his hand across the table and softly caressed his palm.
The way he listened, genuinely interested in her thoughts and opinions, made her heart flutter.
As they indulged in the gourmet dishes before them, Andromeda couldn't help but steal glances at Liu Xueyi.
The way he savoured each bite, the occasional smirk that played on his lips—it was all incredibly attractive. She felt fortunate to be sharing this moment with him.
Their private bubble of contentment suddenly burst as a fan approached their table, her eyes widening in surprise and excitement as she recognized Andromeda.
She stammered out a greeting, her voice trembling with awe as she asked for an autograph and a selfie.
"Please. I am so sorry to barge in like this but… It is Andromeda Kai. Girl, I love your fashion designs and now you are venturing into acting, I couldn't resist. I wanted to show my support."
Andromeda was taken aback by this.
This was the first time such a thing happened. She stole a glance at Liu Xueyi, shocked to see him smiling at her.
She knew that smile, it wa sone of approval.
Graciously, she complied, signing a napkin and posing for a quick photo with the lady upon request.
Similarly, Liu Xueyi smiled at the fan and thanked her for her support.
"Sure thing. This means so much to meet you two. I won't disturb your meal any longer."
She bade goodbye to them and left the restaurant with her companion.
However, as more people noticed what was happening, their private dinner began to attract attention.
Mumurring began to sweep round the hall as everyone watched.
Soon, people began to identify her and more fans gathered around their table, snapping photos and showering Andromeda with compliments.
Liu Xueyi handled it all with grace, but Andromeda could sense his discomfort. It was evident that he had hoped for a quiet, intimate evening with her.
Sensing the situation spiraling out of control, Liu Xueyi gently guided Andromeda to her feet. "I'm sorry, but we really must be going," he said apologetically to the fans.
He knew she had yet to make her name but he did not want it to cause an uproar in the restaurant.
Quickly he escorted her out before things got heated. Sadly, that was already too late for such.
Outside the restaurant, the once-joyous and calm atmosphere shifted dramatically.
Several fans stood outside, most critics and haters. Andromeda was met with a barrage of hateful comments and accusations from a small group of onlookers.
Some questioned her relationship with Liu Xueyi, while others brought up Xie Tian, insinuating that she was two-timing.
lightsΝοvel Andromeda's heart pounded in her chest as she struggled to comprehend the sudden turn of events.
The accusations were baseless, and the hatred in the eyes of the accusers was palpable. It was as if someone had orchestrated this ambush with malicious intent.
It was one thing to hate on her basically but calling ehr a two timer who rode on Liu Xuey's cocktails was much. Especially adding a whore to the list.
Anger surged in her eyes and she tried to respond, hoping to calm the lies they were sprouting when Liu Xueyi who was already accustomed to such situations, stepped forward, his voice calm and authoritative.
"Ladies and gents," he began, his tone carrying a weight that demanded attention. "Andromeda is a talented and dedicated artist who deserves your respect. Her relationships and career are her own, and they should not be subject to baseless speculation."
His words seemed to quell the storm of accusations, and the reporters and haters fell silent, almost cowed by his presence.
Just as he geared her away when he saw his men coming, another fan voiced out her opinion.
"Ye Yuan or Liu Xueyi, are you trying to say she has never cheated on you? Or you are covering for her?"
A knowing smile crept up Liu uXeyi's lips. "Who do you see here, Xie Tian or myself?"
"Enh?"
"I think I have cleared every doubt. She's mine."
Andromeda felt a surge of gratitude toward Liu Xueyi. He had come to her rescue, defending her honor and reputation with strong resolve.
They made a hasty exit from the crowd, and once safely inside Liu Xueyi's car, Andromeda sank back into her seat, her mind a turmoil of emotions.
She couldn't shake the feeling that someone had orchestrated this attack on her, and it left a bitter taste in her mouth.
Once they had driven far from the crowd, Liu Xueyi turned in her direction. He noticed the distress she was in and reached out to gently cup her cheek.
"Andromeda," he said softly, "don't let this affect you. Rumours and gossip are part and parcel of this industry. What matters is how you handle them."
"Okay. Thanks."
"It is nothing. Also, do not show weakness or anger before them like you were about to do. They can use it against you," he added.
She managed a weak smile, touched by his concern. "Thank you, Xueyi. It just... caught me off guard."
He nodded, understanding all of her concern. "That's how they operate. There are critics out there ready to dump their frustration on you and those who feel they are right and the law."
"The law," she scoffed. "That's so wrong."
"Well social media is a mess. You're strong, and you have my support. We'll get through this together, okay, love?"
Andromeda's heart warmed at his words. As they continued their drive, she couldn't help but ponder who might be behind the vicious rumours.
It was too early, and her contract was still yet to being finalized. Someone was playing a dangerous game with her.
Taking in a deep breath, she steeled her resolve. Now, she was determined to find out who.
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