Down-and-out giants: Flying against the wind

Chapter Four: Reencounter with an Old Face

Time flew by in the blink of an eye. In the twinkling of three years, Lin Yue had forged her path in the advertising industry. Day in and day out, she poured her heart and soul into every project, attending countless brainstorming sessions that often stretched late into the night. With her unique creativity, which stemmed from her diverse life experiences and an insatiable curiosity for the world, and remarkable professional capabilities honed through hard work and learning from every setback, she emerged as a rising star. Her campaigns began to grace billboards across the city, capturing the attention of the entire field. During a grand industry networking event, filled with the chatter of influential figures and the clinking of champagne glasses, Lin Yue unexpectedly came face - to - face with someone who had left an indelible mark on her past—Chen Yu.

Chen Yu was decked out in a bespoke Armani suit, the fine fabric draping perfectly over his frame, exuding an air of wealth and arrogance. A wealthy socialite, with her designer gown shimmering under the chandeliers and a diamond - studded clutch in her hand, was hanging onto his arm. The moment his eyes landed on Lin Yue, a flicker of surprise, like a brief spark in the darkness, flashed across his face, only to be swiftly replaced by a sneer. “Well, if it isn’t Miss Lin! How did you end up in this state?” Chen Yu remarked, his tone dripping with sarcasm, as if he was relishing the opportunity to belittle her.

Lin Yue gazed at the man who was once so familiar yet now seemed like a stranger. She remembered the tender moments they had shared, the promises that now felt like distant echoes. But those heart - rending emotions of the past had long since dissipated, like morning mist under the warm sun. All that remained was a sense of tranquility, a calm acceptance of her journey. “I’m doing just fine. I don’t need your pity,” Lin Yue replied coolly, her voice steady and composed.

Just then, Chen Yu’s current girlfriend sauntered over, her high - heeled steps clicking loudly on the marble floor. She sized Lin Yue up from head to toe, her eyes brimming with provocation, as if she saw Lin Yue as a threat. “Hmph, a down - and - out heiress who got kicked out of her family, still putting on airs.” Lin Yue merely smiled, a smile that held a hint of amusement at their pettiness. She turned and walked away with grace, her head held high. She was acutely aware that her life had taken a different trajectory from theirs. She had her own dreams and aspirations, ones that were not defined by wealth or social status, and there was no need to be swayed by the judgment of others.