C14 The Upper Class

At this moment, everyone was pointing fingers at Chu Tian, convinced he was there to cause trouble.

This was because Chu Tian's attire was too ordinary.

To be honest, people who frequented such events were either rich or noble. Would they wear street clothes that cost a mere few dollars? Chu Tian's entire outfit, including his underwear, only totaled around 200 to 300 dollars. Would someone of status be wearing such cheap clothing?

Definitely not.

Luo Yun, Xiang Fei, and Wang Gaoyuan were all dressed in suits and sporting expensive watches. Luo Yun, in particular, wore a branded watch that had just become popular and cost at least 800,000 dollars. His wristband alone could buy dozens of outfits like Chu Tian's.

Even if many people didn't know Luo Yun, his appearance and mannerisms spoke volumes about his background.

In comparison, everyone was more inclined to believe Luo Yun.

"Sir, please present your invitation. If you don't have one, you'll need to leave immediately," said the security guard, trying to maintain his last bit of courtesy as he stepped in front of Chu Tian.

The importance of today's event couldn't be overstated; it was an assembly of Qingzhou's high society. The security guard couldn't afford to make any mistakes. If Chu Tian were to cause a disruption without an invitation, the guard would be held accountable and likely lose his job.

Thankfully, Luo Yun and the others had exposed Chu Tian, averting what could have been disastrous consequences.

Grateful for their intervention, the security guard felt a sense of relief.

"As I've said, I was invited verbally; I don't have a written invitation," Chu Tian frowned, clearly growing impatient.

"I'm sorry, but you can't enter without an invitation. Please leave," responded the security guard, his tone turning icy.

He then gestured for Chu Tian to exit.

"Mr. Chu, my apologies for exposing you. But we did it for your own good. Why would a failure like you want to humiliate yourself at a cocktail party? I can't fathom what you're thinking," taunted Wang Gaoyuan.

Shaking his head, Wang Gaoyuan turned to Luo Yun and Xiang Fei, "Young Master Luo, Young Master Xiang, shall we go in?"

"Let's go," agreed Luo Yun.

The trio showed their invitations and proceeded into the hall, leaving Chu Tian stranded at the door.

"Sir, if you don't leave now, we will have to resort to force," warned the security guard.

Annoyed that Chu Tian was still lingering, the security guard took a step forward, his temper rising.

Chu Tian had nearly cost him his job, and now Chu Tian was refusing to leave, unashamedly so. No matter how good-tempered the security guard was, this would make him angry.

"I did receive a verbal invitation. Would it be alright if I make a call?" Chu Tian didn't want to cause trouble for the security guard.

"Fine! Sir, I hope you're not playing games with me," the security guard responded, nodding.

Chu Tian took out his phone. He first tried calling Ye Tianxin, but her phone was out of service. Something must have been blocking the signal. He then called Ashan and briefed him on the situation.

In less than a minute, Ashan rushed to the lobby. Under the watchful eyes of the security guards, he invited Chu Tian inside.

Then, a slightly overweight, middle-aged man in a security uniform arrived, panting. Before even reaching Chu Tian, he called out, "Mr. Chu, I'm very sorry. My staff made an error in stopping you. Please accept my apologies on their behalf.

"You're fired! If you dare to obstruct Mr. Chu, you don't need to come to work tomorrow," he said, addressing the security guard who had stopped Chu Tian.

His final remark was directed at the security guard who had blocked Chu Tian.

Chu Tian pondered for a moment. He didn't recall knowing this man.

"He's the head of security for Longteng. I've informed him about what just happened," Ashan whispered.

"It's fine. I didn't actually have an invitation, and he was just following procedure. I understand that," Chu Tian said, subtly defending the security guard.

"Mr. Chu, so you're forgiving him?" asked the head of security cautiously.

"Yes."

"Thank you for your generosity," the head of security responded, delighted. He then turned to the security guard, "Quickly thank Mr. Chu!"

"Mr. Chu, thank you," the security guard said, hastily expressing his gratitude.

Chu Tian didn't give the security guard any more attention. Seeing no further obstacles, he headed into the hall.

The crowd that had gathered earlier now believed Chu Tian's story. After all, a single phone call brought Ashan down to greet him personally, and with such respect. Chu Tian had to be a guest of the Ye Family.

However, Chu Tian was dressed quite modestly.

It seemed they shouldn't judge a book by its cover.

What was truly laughable was that they had initially thought Chu Tian was a failure.

Because of his relationship with the Ye Family, they were all failures in Chu Tian's eyes.

After all, Chu Tian could communicate with the Ye Family, something they couldn't do.

The hall was opulent, adorned with radiant neon lights.

The men donned suits, leather shoes, and luxury watches, while the women wore elegant dresses, high heels, and red lipstick.

This was Qingzhou's most exclusive business district. Everyone here was an elite from various sectors in Qingzhou, and entry required a minimum net worth of 100 million.

However, these individuals were less concerned about money and more focused on status, reputation, and networking.

Under the bright lights, everyone appeared dazzling, making Chu Tian's attire seem relatively unremarkable.

"Ashan, if you have other tasks, you can go. I'll be fine on my own. I'd actually feel more uncomfortable with you trailing me," said Chu Tian, noticing that Ashan had discreetly ended several calls.

"It's just minor stuff, nothing important," Ashan replied.

"But I'd really like to explore alone," insisted Chu Tian.

Very well, Mr. Chu. I'll be nearby. Call me if you need anything."

Ashan courteously nodded before stepping back.

Being solitary was typical for experts like Chu Tian. Ashan took the hint and retreated, ensuring he was far enough to not crowd Chu Tian. Chu Tian, always one to walk his own path, was used to being alone. Ashan maintained a respectful distance, barely within sight, fully honoring Chu Tian's wishes.

After crossing the dance floor in the hall, Chu Tian arrived at the more subdued main hall.

The hall was designated for entertainment, while the main hall was reserved for business discussions. Here, both middle-aged and young elites mingled, laying the groundwork for future partnerships.

Chu Tian's attention, however, was on the antique jade artifacts displayed in the cabinets around the main hall.

These artifacts were not tonight's auction highlight; they were more for casual viewing by the high-profile guests, who could purchase them if interested.

Yet, their prices were certainly less extravagant compared to the evening's main auction items.

Chu Tian browsed the collection, considering if he could get a valuable item for a reasonable price. Even experts occasionally misjudge antiques, but Chu Tian trusted his own discernment.

If he could find an artifact filled with abundant natural energy, his presence at the gathering would be worthwhile.

Just as Chu Tian was engrossed in his observations, a sweet female voice reached his ears.

"Chu Tian, you're here too?"