The Next One

Before everyone's eyes, a blond man wearing flamboyant earrings walked over, stopped in front of her chair, and broke into a robot dance. His movements were practiced and sharp, drawing whistles from quite a few people.

Someone even pulled out a phone to record him.

After finishing crisply, he ran a hand through his hair and smiled at the girl in the gray dress. "Hello, miss. Are you going to play the violin? We can have some fun together."

Yuan Yuan lowered her head, glanced at his seemingly friendly smile and the tiny needle marks on his wrist beneath his cuff, then looked away.

"Sorry, I'm waiting for someone. I don't have time."

"I can wait with you." The man stuck to her like gum, leaning closer as he enthusiastically told her, "As long as it takes."

"It won't take long."

Yuan Yuan spoke softly. "They'll be here soon."

Behind her came the shriek of tires grinding against the pavement.

A massive truck slammed to a stop in the street. Behind the Huai Shi Trading Company logo, its doors opened, and several men dressed like workers jumped down.

They carried barricades and set them up ahead at the intersection.

At the other end of the street, another vehicle stopped as well, blocking the traffic hub and completely sealing off this busiest stretch of road.

In truth, it was only for show.

They put down two barricades, parked a vehicle, then abandoned everything and turned to leave.

There was still an enormous gap for people to pass through.

A shortcut left for anyone who wanted to flee...

Like a dog hole.

An unsettling atmosphere spread soundlessly, making the blond man's expression stiffen.

Then he heard a voice beside him.

"Excuse me. Move aside."

Yuan Yuan glanced at him. "My performance is