Chapter 22
C22 – Base Person
A frown etched across Soong Wan’s face as she heard him. She turned around, displaying her displeasure in her tone.
“Qin Shou, kindly address me as Miss Soong. Avoid being overly familiar. We’re not acquainted!”
Soong Wan’s words promptly caught the young man in the suit off guard.
Upon hearing Soong Wan label him as a beast, Jiang Hao couldn’t help but chuckle.
In novels, he had often seen characters being referred to as beasts. It was unexpected that such terminology also existed in real life!
Jiang Hao’s laughter quickly led to another stunned reaction from Qin Shou.
Jiang Hao grinned, then swiftly checked himself and apologized.
“Apologies, I got carried away!”
In that instant, Qin Shou regained his composure. He maintained a pleasant expression while addressing Jiang Hao.
“No worries. My name is quite misleading too. I understand your predicament. However, it was decided by my family’s patriarch. I can’t change it!”
“May I inquire about your surname?”
“I’m Jiang Hao, a classmate of Miss Wan’er!”
“Ah, so you’re Miss Soong’s classmate. That makes us classmates too. I’m from Grade 12 Class 1. Pleasure to meet you!”
Qin Shou stared at Jiang Hao, his lips curling into a smile.
Yet, this smile appeared somewhat chilly to Jiang Hao.
As anticipated, the very next moment, Qin Shou’s attention shifted to the modest gift box in Soong Wan’s hand, prompting him to comment.
“Is this a gift from Student Jiang Hao to Miss Soong? I imagine Jiang Hao’s gift isn’t something ordinary, right? Mind if I have the honor of taking a look?”
Qin Shou purposely raised his voice to ensure he was heard, fearing Soong Wan might turn him down. This attracted the curiosity of onlookers, who swiftly congregated around them.
Onlookers began discussing when they spotted Qin Shou and Soong Wan conversing, as well as Jiang Hao’s unconventional attire for such an occasion.
“Huh? Isn’t that the Qin Family’s young master? What’s going on?”
“Oh, someone presented a gift that even Young Master Qin finds intriguing. I’m curious now!”
“Miss Soong, unveil it so we can all see!”
“Mr. Qin, what gift did this gentleman offer that piqued your interest?”
“Exactly. Is it possible that even Mr. Qin’s renowned antique collection can’t compare?”
In this moment, Soong Wan’s expression soured. She was fully aware that Qin Shou was attempting to provoke Jiang Hao.
Uncle Hai had already briefed her on Jiang Hao’s background. Consequently, she understood his family’s financial situation and recognized Jiang Hao wouldn’t be able to present her with extravagant gifts.
Regardless, the value of Jiang Hao’s offerings mattered little to her. What truly counted was her personal preference!
But, with Qin Shou provoking her now, she found herself at a crossroads. On one hand, she wanted to look at what was inside the box, but on the other hand, she didn’t want to hurt Jiang Hao’s pride.
She was in a dilemma.
Standing beside her, Jiang Hao seemed unperturbed by Qin Shou’s provocation. He exuded an air of calm composure.
Yet, inwardly, he was overjoyed.
“I was contemplating how to draw attention, but I never expected this person to assist me. I’m so grateful to him!”
Unaware of Jiang Hao’s delight, Qin Shou maintained his irritating smile while gazing at Jiang Hao.
“Mr. Jiang, everyone is eager to see the gift you’ve given us. Would you mind if we take a look?”
Upon hearing this, Jiang Hao smiled and addressed Qin Shou.
“It’s not a valuable item. Just a small gesture.”
Then, he turned to Soong Wan and continued.
“Given everyone’s curiosity, Miss Wan’er, please open it and take a look. I hope you’ll find it to your liking!”
With Jiang Hao’s words, Soong Wan found it even more challenging to decline. She had initially intended to find another excuse to avoid it.
“Alright!”
Left with no choice, Soong Wan reluctantly agreed, already planning to apologize to Jiang Hao afterward.
Holding the boxes with one hand, Soong Wan carefully unsealed the tape on the gift boxes with the other.
Spectators around them also gathered in anticipation, creating a small crowd eager for the unveiling.