After Becoming a Cannon-Fodder Lackey, I Swore to Protect the Young Lady to the Death - Chapter 33

Three models with striking figures and poise stepped out one by one, showcasing a variety of styles for Li Gangjiao and Lu Jiaoyue to review.

The first model wore an opulent red gown with a skirt that flared like a blossom in full bloom. It was paired with an exquisite black cropped jacket encrusted with shimmering diamonds and sequins, radiating an aura of noble mystery.

The second model presented a minimalist yet chic white ensemble. The top was a slim-fit white shirt paired with loose, comfortable trousers, giving off a vibe of effortless elegance and fresh sophistication.

The final model sported an edgy black leather dress with a unique, fluid cut that traced the curves of her silhouette. Paired with rugged Dr. Martens and dark sunglasses, she looked undeniably cool.

“We’ll keep the jacket from the first set,” Lu Jiaoyue decided, turning her head to ask, “Anything catch your eye?”

“I think those boots are pretty cool,” Li Gangjiao said, pointing at the third model’s footwear.

“Keep the shoes as well,” Lu Jiaoyue said to the clerk with a smile. “Next set.”

Minutes later, the models emerged again.

The first wore a strapless white gown with layered tulle creating a voluminous, airy skirt. A delicate diamond-studded bow sat at the waist, making the look both sharp and adorable.

The second was a crimson, qipao-style evening dress. Its slim cut perfectly outlined her slender frame, and the intricate embroidery looked almost lifelike.

The final model wore a black evening gown that exuded a dark, regal high-fashion energy. The fabric was as smooth as silk, and the asymmetrical neckline made it look modern and provocative. She wore an ornate headpiece encrusted with pearls and gemstones, adding a final touch of extravagance.

“Whoa, that black dress would look absolutely incredible on you!” Li Gangjiao’s eyes lit up.

“I’ll take all three,” Lu Jiaoyue said. “Send the second one to the Lu family estate—you should have the address on file. Mark it as a gift for my mother. You can pick out a matching necklace for it; she prefers large gemstones.”

She paused, then added, “Send the first one to the private hospital in the city. Just leave it at the security booth. Thank you.”

Lu Jiaoyue checked off the items in the catalog and signed her name with a flourish. A simple shopping trip was over. Before leaving, the clerk thoughtfully gifted them two VIP tickets to the brand’s upcoming runway show.

Looking at the final total on the receipt, Li Gangjiao (the humble worker) felt herself shatter into tiny pieces.

Li Gangjiao: The world is on mute. Listen to the sound of my soul breaking.

“There’s a gala tonight for the coming-of-age of the CICINB Chairman’s son,” Lu Jiaoyue said, her lips curving into a subtle, cunning smile. Her eyes remained cold and detached. “I suspect Gu Yan will be there. You and Su Momo are coming with me. Let’s see how he reacts when he sees us.”

“I’ve been paying Shen Nana to run quite a few hit pieces on him lately,” Lu Jiaoyue continued. “I wonder if he’s noticed yet.”

“Wait, Shen Nana’s family is in media?” Li Gangjiao asked, a beat late to the news. Then a look of realization dawned on her. “No wonder she loves gossip so much and knows everything about everyone.”

“By the way,” Li Gangjiao added, “doesn’t your family own a luxury brand? Why do you buy from other labels?”

“I like this brand’s style. I wear our stuff too, of course, but… I don’t really like obvious logos. When I wear our brand, it’s usually the bespoke, private-label pieces.”

Lu Jiaoyue tossed the new Dr. Martens into Li Gangjiao’s arms and began browsing her jewelry collection.

“The stylist says they’ll be here in half an hour,” Lu Jiaoyue said, picking up a bracelet. “What do you think of this?”

The bracelet was set with countless brilliant black gemstones, each flashing with a unique luster that caught the light and reflected a dazzling glow. The design was intricate yet natural, blending opulence with grace. Every link was seamless, a testament to master-level craftsmanship.

“It’s beautiful!” Li Gangjiao said sincerely.

“Then you’re wearing it tonight.”

The priceless bracelet was tossed through the air. Fortunately, Li Gangjiao’s reflexes were sharp; she caught it perfectly.

“And this one doesn’t require you to poke any new holes in your body,” Lu Jiaoyue added, staring at Li Gangjiao’s still-red earlobe.

“Hehe,” Li Gangjiao rubbed the back of her head, grinning sheepishly.

******

The Gala:

The event was the definition of excess.

A birthday cake over a meter tall sat prominently in the center of a long table, each tier meticulously decorated. Various other pastries and drinks were arranged with surgical precision.

When Lu Jiaoyue arrived in her black evening gown, she became an instant magnet for attention. However, her focus remained fixed on one person: Gu Yan.

Seeing him, a faint smile played on her lips. She walked toward him with elegant, measured steps. Gu Yan’s eyes never left her as she approached.

“Long time no see, Young Master Gu,” Lu Jiaoyue said, her voice calm but laced with a sharp, teasing edge.

Gu Yan paused for a moment before offering a smirk. “Miss Lu looks particularly stunning tonight.”

The exchange was brief but thick with the smell of gunpowder. Everyone in the vicinity could feel the sudden drop in temperature.

Shen Nana pulled Chen Wan aside, whispering, “If they actually start throwing hands, my news column is going to be legendary…”

Lu Jiaoyue let out a soft laugh. “Thank you for the compliment. However, I’m not the protagonist tonight.” She turned her gaze to the young man standing beside Gu Yan. “Congratulations on your adulthood, Young Master Chen.”

“Congratulations,” Gu Yan echoed with a stiff nod.

Young Master Chen thanked them with a polite smile, though a flash of annoyance crossed his eyes. For God’s sake, you two can go tear each other apart anywhere else. Just don’t start something at my birthday party, okay?!

Lu Jiaoyue and Gu Yan shared a “harmonious” smile, though a dangerous undercurrent surged beneath the surface. Just then, the music swelled, and the ball began. Young Master Chen invited a girl nearby to the floor, and the two became the center of attention as they danced.

When the music ended, Lu Jiaoyue and Li Gangjiao returned to their seats.

Li Gangjiao: Someone save me. I have no idea how to dance; I was just spinning in circles the whole time!!

Elsewhere, Shen Nana was hunting for material. Spotting a socialite who had arrived late, she immediately swooped in to start a conversation, hoping to verify the rumors about a feud between the girl’s stepmother and her brother.

Meanwhile, the host took to the stage to announce the gift-giving ceremony. One by one, the guests stepped forward to present their offerings.

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