Genius Club

The sales associate was promptly dismissed by the female manager, who then ushered Lin Xian towards a secluded back room of the store. This hidden space was tucked away at the end of a long corridor, marked by a door with no sign, just a sophisticated password lock.

“Mr. Lin, please, after you,” the manager gestured, unlocking the door and allowing Lin Xian to enter first.

The room they entered was awash with bright lights, highlighting the European-style wooden furniture that adorned the space, exuding a vintage charm. Dominating the center were three glass cases, each showcasing a finely crafted suit.

“These are the crown jewels of our collection, each crafted by over eighty artisans through more than two hundred meticulous processes,” the manager explained with a hint of pride. “Given your expertise, I’ll spare you the mundane details. Which one catches your eye? I’d be happy to arrange a fitting.”

She continued, “Ms. Zhao mentioned you’re accompanying her to a banquet tonight. I’d recommend the suit on the left for the occasion—it’s vibrant yet informal.”

Lin Xian considered the leftmost suit, a deep blue-black ensemble that radiated quality far surpassing those on general display.

“I’ll try this one,” he decided, trusting the manager’s recommendation.

Once dressed, Lin Xian examined his reflection in the mirror. The suit transformed him, making him feel like he belonged to the upper echelons of society.

“This will do nicely. Please pack it up,” he affirmed.

“Yes, please,” Lin Xian agreed.

Later, as Lin Xian left the store with the suit neatly boxed—a precaution to prevent wrinkles and damage—he marveled at the care taken for such premium attire.

“It’s really delicate,” he mused, almost as if he were carrying a treasure.

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Curious about the cost, Lin Xian remembered the prices were unlisted, and the purchase had been charged to Zhao Ying Jun’s account. Considering the prices of the basic suits, he estimated this one to be significantly more expensive.

By 7 p.m., Lin Xian arrived at the banquet venue, a magnificent mansion that stood as the pinnacle of luxury in Donghai City. A doorman opened his taxi door with a courteous gesture.

“Sir, please watch your step.”

Navigating through the hall, Lin Xian exchanged polite nods and smiles with the other guests. The mansion boasted an elegant European decor, its sophistication evident in every detail. Violin and piano melodies floated down from the second floor, setting a serene ambiance reminiscent of a scene from the movie Titanic.

Soon, Lin Xian spotted Zhao Ying Jun. She was striking in a dark red gown, her hair pinned up formally, complementing her attire with crimson earrings.

“Lin Xian, you’re here,” she greeted him, eyeing his new suit approvingly. “Excellent choice; it suits you well.”

She stepped closer to adjust his tie, her hands skilled and sure. “Remember, a suit is a man’s armor, and the tie his sword. Make sure it’s tight.”

“Acknowledged,” Lin Xian responded, slightly embarrassed.

Zhao Ying Jun then guided him further into the gathering. “This event is a fundraiser for scientific endeavors, organized by Chu Shan He, president of the Donghai Chamber of Commerce.”

She pointed towards a robust man engaged in lively conversation at the base of the grand staircase. “That’s Chu Shan He, a prominent figure around here.”

“I’ve heard of him,” Lin Xian acknowledged. Chu Shan He’s reputation was well-known; his influence and power were unmatched in Donghai City.

“In college, I heard legends about Chu Shan He’s extravagance, especially regarding his daughter. Is it true he dotes on her excessively?”

Zhao Ying Jun laughed lightly. “Absolutely. He treats her like a rare jewel.”

“Typically, he brings her to every event. Strange she’s not here tonight. She’s quite beautiful,” Zhao Ying Jun added, scanning the room.

Lin Xian nodded, disinterested in local gossip.

“Look there,” Zhao Ying Jun pointed to a man standing alone, dressed casually with unkempt hair and fogged glasses.

“That’s Professor Xu Yun from Donghai University. Ever heard of him?”

“No,” Lin Xian admitted. Donghai University was vast, and he barely knew the professors from his own department.

“Professor Xu Yun has been chasing a pipedream—researching hibernation pods. Despite years of effort, he’s barely scratched the surface theoretically, let alone made any practical breakthroughs.”

“Is he the only one pursuing this research? It sounds quite futuristic,” Lin Xian remarked.

“He is,” Zhao Ying Jun chuckled. “Because of his outlandish focus, he’s been marginalized in the academic community. Even his students and colleagues have abandoned him.”

“Despite everything, he holds onto his deputy professorship, continuing his research in obscurity.”

“But, life has a way of surprising us,” Zhao Ying Jun continued, her tone shifting as she swirled her wine. “Recently, while failing yet again, he stumbled upon a new chemical compound.”

“This compound, when mixed with water, creates a breathable, water-resistant film, completely safe for skin contact.”

Zhao Ying Jun picked up a fresh glass of wine, her eyes gleaming with excitement. “This might be a setback for his pod research, but Lin Xian, do you understand what this could mean for our skincare industry?”