They turned in unison, gliding past long tables laden with crystal and silver where guests' attention continued to flicker toward them. In the background, a student's controversial artwork was placed under the gavel, igniting a minor bidding war filled with excited murmurs. Yet Shuyin's calm, unwavering presence during that interlude served as a stark reminder of where the true center of gravity lay in the room. Her serenity and composed elegance stood in sharp contrast to the flurry of petty conflicts and ambitions swirling around her. Lu Yuze's protective proximity only reinforced the impression: publicly, she was untouchable; privately, he was her steadfast guardian.
