C9 The Noise in the Hall of the Building

Xiao Nan found himself at a crossroads of emotion upon accepting ownership of Hemipeel Tower, uncertain whether to feel joy or a sense of resignation.

As he gazed upon Hemipeel Tower, the image of his senior sister, Murong Yanran, inexplicably surfaced in his mind, superimposed on the building's massive billboard. Murong Yanran's beauty rivaled that of his wife, Wang Ziyan, yet her face bore a distinct coolness.

Despite her allure, Xiao Nan was acutely aware that Murong Yanran was a dangerously beautiful woman with a heart like a serpent's—untouchable without consequence.

Shaking off the thought, he made his way into Hemipeel Tower.

Television dramas and novels often resort to tired tropes, such as sinister security guards or snobbish staff who prevent entry into prestigious buildings. But these melodramatic scenarios were far from reality.

At Hemipeel Tower, the staff, from waiters to other personnel, had undergone thorough training and offered excellent service. The building, being a hub for business leasing, was a bustling place, making it unlikely for anyone to encounter disdainful treatment at the entrance.

It would be naive to claim that every staff member was devoid of prejudice, as people's attitudes vary. However, at least at the entrance, one could expect a drama-free experience. Beyond that threshold, things were less predictable.

Without an employee card from one of the tenant companies, or a phone call for verification, gaining further access was virtually impossible.

Xiao Nan was well aware that his wife, Wang Ziyan, had made it clear she did not want her work disturbed. Now, as the true owner of Hemipeel Tower, he had the power to assist her in any way he chose. Yet, he couldn't help but recall how his wife had remained skeptical when he had predicted Murong Hong's inevitable arrival, despite his assurances of good fortune. Her trust in him had always been lacking.

If I claimed to be the owner of Hemipeel Tower now, Ziyan would probably not believe me. She might even insult me.

With this in mind, Xiao Nan decided he should first attend to some other matters.

However, at that moment, Xiao Nan heard a commotion nearby.

The first floor of Hemipeel Tower, among its 88 floors, was the most opulent.

This level housed the property management of Hemipeel Tower and served as the building's public face.

To the right, the property management had thoughtfully placed numerous sofas for the comfort of their clients.

Beyond the sofas were tea tables, adorned with exquisite tea sets for guests and owners to enjoy a moment of relaxation with a cup of tea.

Additionally, there were delectable pastries on display, clearly indicating the property management's attention to detail.

It was evident that this area was favored and enjoyed by many.

Xiao Nan had intended to head in that direction, but he was stopped in his tracks by a series of noises that left him rather exasperated.

What was causing such a stir?

Had something happened at Hemipeel Tower that he was unaware of?

Xiao Nan felt a bit frustrated. He had a rather positive view of Hemipeel Tower, especially since his arrival in his streetwear had been met with friendly glances from the sharply dressed female attendants and security guards at the entrance.

Why was there trouble in the lobby now?

Could it be that a dramatic scene, like those from TV dramas or novels, was unfolding?

Was someone else being disrespected?

Xiao Nan could relate. As a big master, he had faced difficulties with the Wang family, and now it seemed someone else was experiencing hardship.

Undoubtedly, this resonated with him.

Reflecting on these thoughts, Xiao Nan suddenly felt a bit guilty for now finding himself empathizing with the plight of other underdogs.

With these thoughts in mind, Xiao Nan made his way toward the disturbance.

Then, his anger flared.

It was his wife!

His wife, Ziyan, was at the center of a crowd.

To be exact, it wasn't Ziyan who had gotten into an argument, but rather one of her employees who was in a dispute with someone else.

Shangguan Ruohong was an employee under his wife's supervision.

He was familiar with Shangguan Ruohong; indeed, she was the only person he had encountered a few times throughout the entire Sroz Media Entertainment Corporation.

Her name, Shangguan Ruohong, carried a certain domineering air.

In reality, Shangguan Ruohong and his wife, Wang Ziyan, were not only best friends but also in a superior-subordinate relationship.

Within Sroz Media, she served as Wang Ziyan's personal secretary and concurrently held the position of financial director. She was the true steward, overseeing many aspects of the company's operations.

However, just like Zhang Manli and others, Shangguan Ruohong had little regard for Xiao Nan, harboring even greater animosity towards him.

Whenever Shangguan Ruohong encountered Xiao Nan, she never missed an opportunity to scorn and deride him.

It was as if Xiao Nan was a constant irritant in her eyes.

Her level of mockery, when compared to Zhang Manli, was in no way less biting; in fact, it was arguably more intense.

It could be said that Shangguan Ruohong's disdain for Xiao Nan was deeply ingrained.

At this particular moment, the formidable Shangguan Ruohong stood beside her best friend, Wang Ziyan.

Wang Ziyan remained silent, her face flushed with anger.

Meanwhile, Shangguan Ruohong's fury was unabated as she vehemently argued with several individuals.