Peninsula: I'm the Top Streamer

Chapter 695 The First Wife Subdues the Mistress?!
A Western restaurant in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, known for its sophisticated atmosphere and excellent views.

Outside the huge floor-to-ceiling windows is a dazzling city night view, while inside the room, the light and shadow are soft, crystal chandeliers cast dappled light, and soothing jazz music flows in the air.

Liu Zhimin arrived a few minutes earlier than the agreed time, and the waiter led her to the reserved seat by the window.

Today she wore a neatly tailored off-white knit sweater and black trousers, with light makeup, making her look gentle and charming.

My gaze swept across the restaurant; there weren't too many customers, but they were all well-dressed, talking in hushed tones, creating an elegant and tranquil atmosphere.

She chose this semi-open booth, which ensured relative privacy without being a completely isolated private room.

It seems that Zhao Meiyan specifically said this when she made the suggestion.

As Liu Zhimin sat in her seat, she was still making assumptions about the two of them having dinner together today.

Thinking about what topics to talk about during meals, and trying to avoid discussing sensitive topics, etc.

It's best to relax and enjoy yourself after the meal.

Zhao Meiyan arrived almost on time, her steps light and quick.

Wearing a stylish light blue shirt dress with a knitted cardigan over it, her hair was casually tied up with a few wisps falling around her cheeks, making her look gentle and fresh.

Upon seeing Liu Zhimin, she immediately flashed a bright smile, her eyes curving into a beautiful arc.

"Have you been waiting long? There was a bit of traffic on the road." Zhao Meiyan sat down naturally, her tone familiar.

"Annyeong, unnie, I just arrived too."

Liu Zhimin bowed slightly in response to Zhao Meiyan as she approached, but her gaze lingered on Zhao Meiyan's attire for a few moments.

So beautiful, so elegant.

Kwon Hyun-hyuk treated such a girl so badly, doesn't he have any conscience?
Liu Zhimin's thoughts stemmed entirely from her pity for beautiful things, not from a sudden change in her attitude towards Zhao Meiyan.

The waiter then handed over the menu.

The process of ordering food became the initial icebreaker. The two discussed the main courses and wine pairings in hushed tones while looking at the menu. Zhao Meiyan would ask Liu Zhimin about her taste preferences, and Liu Zhimin would also give her opinions when appropriate.

The conversation temporarily revolved around food, in a safe and relaxed manner.

When the appetizers were served, Zhao Meiyan raised her water glass with a sincere smile: "Jimin, thank you for coming today. I also found the Challenge shoot very interesting."

Liu Zhimin also picked up her water glass and gently clinked it against hers. The crystal glass made a crisp sound, and she smiled and said, "Unnie, you're too kind. I'm very happy too."

Zhao Meiyan's eyes were bright as she gently poked at the salad on her plate with her fork.

The conversation gradually shifted from work to some trivial anecdotes and everyday life within the industry.

Although Liu Zhimin was not completely relaxed, Zhao Meiyan's affability was gradually melting away the awkward silence.

The other person seemed genuinely just looking to make friends, sharing snippets of their life, such as embarrassing moments during practice or recently discovered delicious dessert shops.

Zhao Meiyan's eyes were bright as she gently poked at the salad on her plate with her fork.

"When we did the Challenge photoshoot last time, the online response was fantastic. Everyone said we looked great together. Fans are always so sweet, aren't they?"

She spoke in a relaxed tone, as if sharing an interesting anecdote.

Liu Zhimin nodded slightly and took a sip of ice water. "Yes, the comments are indeed very enthusiastic. Fans are always very passionate."

"Speaking of which, during our music show promotions a while ago, Yuqi almost dropped her microphone into a coffee cup backstage, which scared our manager so much that his face turned white..."

As Zhao Meiyan spoke with a smile and gestures, her vivid expressions made Liu Zhimin's lips curl into a smile as well.

The warm yellow light of the restaurant fell on her face, softening her features and easing Liu Zhimin's inner wariness.

She started sharing some interesting anecdotes from aespa's recent comeback, and the atmosphere seemed genuinely relaxed and pleasant amidst the food and casual conversation.

Just as the main course was being cleared away and the two were about to order some dessert to continue their conversation, Liu Zhimin caught several glances out of the corner of her eye.

She subconsciously looked up and saw a group of guests at a table diagonally opposite her, a well-dressed middle-aged couple and a young girl, who were frequently glancing in their direction.

When the young girl noticed Liu Zhimin looking over, she immediately looked away in a fluster, pretending nothing was wrong and continuing to cut the food on her plate. However, the slight angle of her head and the way she spoke in hushed tones still betrayed their attention.

Zhao Meiyan also noticed her distraction and, following her gaze, naturally noticed the guests at that table.

She adjusted her posture and smiled even more brightly.

It seems they have been noticed by others.

Okay, not bad.

She even thoughtfully reminded Liu Zhimin, "Zhimin, why don't you try this caramel pudding? I heard their pastry chef is from France."

“Okay, unnie.” Yoo Jimin smiled and refocused.

A corner of the caramel pudding was scooped away by the small silver spoon in Liu Zhimin's hand.

Zhao Meiyan rested her chin on her hand, watching Liu Zhimin savor the pudding with small bites, her eyes becoming cautious and concerned.

"Zhimin, did you feel that what I said to you before was a bit abrupt?"

Liu Zhimin's fingers, which were holding the spoon, paused slightly.

Is it happening again?

Liu Zhimin's mind tightened instantly, but she maintained a calm expression. She put down her spoon, picked up her water glass, and took a sip, seemingly carefully considering her words.

"Actually, it's alright..." Liu Zhimin's voice was very soft, with a hint of uncertainty, which was both a confirmation of the information and a test.

"I'm just a little confused."

Zhao Meiyan caught the fleeting change in Liu Zhimin's eyes and knew that the other party understood her meaning.

She sighed softly, a sigh that sounded both helpless and genuinely troubled.

“Yes,” she said, looking directly into Yoo Ji-min’s eyes with a very frank expression.

"To be honest, Zhimin, I'm feeling a little tired right now." She didn't specify what kind of tiredness she was feeling, but in this context, the meaning was self-evident.

"I don't want to see anything unexpected again." She carefully chose her words to avoid sounding too aggressive or purposeful.

"Especially those relationships that look like an 'alliance'."

She emphasized the word "alliance" and tilted her head slightly to indicate that she didn't like it.

“Of course,” she added immediately, her tone returning to its previous gentleness, even with a hint of emphasis.

"The reason I asked you out today and told you all this is really not because I want to pull you into some kind of alliance to go against anyone."

Zhao Meiyan shook her head slightly, her smile carrying a hint of helplessness and honesty.

"I myself think that's childish and pretty boring, right?"

Zhao Meiyan leaned back in her chair, relaxing a bit, and gazed at the dazzling night view outside the window. Her eyes were somewhat vacant, and her voice was soft.

"I just feel that... the way we are now, being able to chat like friends and know some things is better than someone guessing blindly or being kept in the dark." She turned back and looked at Liu Zhimin again, her eyes clear.

"At least you're mentally prepared?"

She spoke frankly, but in a very humble manner, showing no intention of giving orders or making demands on Liu Zhimin.

She was expressing her concerns.

Liu Zhimin's emotions were in turmoil.

She couldn't fully trust Zhao Meiyan, but the sincerity Zhao Meiyan was showing at that moment made it hard for Liu Zhimin to refuse her kindness.

After all, she was the official wife.

She pondered for a few seconds, her long eyelashes drooping, as if she were processing what Zhao Meiyan had said.

"Um... I understand, unnie."

"Thank you for telling me this, Unnie."

Liu Zhimin's fingers tightened and loosened slightly as she held the wine glass, her fingertips unconsciously tracing the cool glass surface.

She looked up at Zhao Meiyan, whose face still wore that gentle, even slightly silly smile, her eyes clear and frank, without a trace of scheming.

This unnie…

He really seems innocent and naive, but is that really the case?

“I understand what you mean, Unnie.” Yoo Jimin finally spoke, her voice a little lighter than before, no longer so tense, carrying a hint of relief after thought. “To be honest, I also felt a bit awkward when I heard the word ‘alliance’.”

Liu Zhimin made a slightly helpless yet amused micro-expression. "It feels too dramatic, not like it should be."

She pursed her lips and continued, "For you to think and say it like that, unnie... um, thank you."

This expression of gratitude was genuine, because she truly sensed Zhao Meiyan's sincerity and her desire not to complicate the situation.

“But,” she paused, tracing circles lightly around the rim of the cup with her fingertips, her hesitation bordering on childlike, “it feels a little strange.”

She wants to climb the social ladder, but if she becomes friends with Zhao Meiyan again, how can she do so?

Is she still going to play?

Zhao Meiyan watched the subtle changes in Liu Zhimin's expression, from seriousness to contemplation, and then to a slightly helpless smile, and felt much more relieved.

She understood Liu Zhimin's awkwardness; she herself would probably feel the same way.

Zhao Meiyan nodded in understanding, then shook her head.

"Em...that's true."

"It's not like we're filming a TV series, how can we suddenly become best friends holding hands?"

She picked up a small spoon and gently tapped the inside of the untouched tiramisu cup in front of her, making a crisp, tinkling sound with a touch of playfulness.

"So, now that we can sit together like ordinary people, eat and chat, and the atmosphere shouldn't be so awkward, that's good."

She tilted her head to look at Liu Zhimin, her eyes sparkling, "There's no need to force anything, just let things take their course, right?"

We'll deal with the future later; for now, let's guard against Kim Jisoo and Chou Tzu-yu.

Liu Zhimin was touched by her relaxed and easygoing attitude, and the heavy feeling in her heart before dissipated slightly.

Looking into Zhao Meiyan's sincere and expectant eyes, she felt much more relaxed.

Since Zhao Meiyan has already adopted this attitude, what else is there to say?

"Inside."

Liu Zhimin nodded slightly and gave a big smile.

Seeing this, Zhao Meiyan relaxed a lot, knowing that what she said had probably worked.

It seems my efforts weren't in vain.

"Is the pudding delicious?" Zhao Meiyan asked, looking at Liu Zhimin's expression. She naturally changed the subject and pointed to Liu Zhimin's plate.

"Would you like to try this tiramisu? Their liqueur flavor is really unique."

They were recognized.

The young girl quietly raised her phone, pointing the screen in their direction, and tapped rapidly on the screen, clearly not taking a selfie.

It might be something shared with close friends or fellow fans.

The restaurant's warmth and relaxed atmosphere still seemed to linger, and the two of them concluded their dinner there.

The two walked out the door side by side, and the crisp autumn air of Seoul greeted them, invigorating them.

"Ah, I'm full, I'm full." Zhao Meiyan sighed contentedly, patted her lower abdomen gently, and then smiled a little shyly.

She turned her head to look at Liu Zhimin, the streetlights reflecting warm light in her eyes.

"Thank you, Zhimin. I had a great chat today."

Liu Zhimin returned a genuine smile, the night breeze ruffling the stray hairs at her temples, which she gently brushed aside.

“Me too, Unnie. This restaurant was a great choice, the food was delicious and the view was beautiful.” She was telling the truth; the dinner experience had indeed exceeded her expectations and had relaxed her tense nerves quite a bit.

"Shall we try another nice place next time?" Zhao Meiyan suggested casually, her tone as relaxed as if she were meeting an old friend.

"Okay, sure."

Liu Zhimin nodded, this time agreeing with less hesitation and more of a go-with-the-flow attitude.

Not far away, two vans pulled up to the side of the road one after the other, and the driver and assistant got out to wait.

"Well... take care on your journey, Unnie," Yoo Ji-min said first, bidding farewell.

"Yes, you too." Zhao Meiyan replied with a smile, naturally extending her hand, not to shake hands, but to gently pat Liu Zhimin's arm, the gesture familiar yet affectionate.

Is she starting to act like an empress?
"Alas, unnie too," Yoo Jimin replied in a more relaxed tone, mimicking her. This small interaction made the farewell feel less formulaic.

The two walked to their respective cars. Liu Zhimin opened the car door and looked back one last time before getting in.

Zhao Meiyan was also bending down to get into the car when, seemingly sensing her gaze, she turned and waved to her from afar, her bright smile still clearly visible in the night and under the streetlights. Liu Zhimin also waved back instinctively.

The car door closed, shutting out the outside world.

Liu Zhimin leaned back in the soft chair and let out a long, silent breath.

With both body and mind relaxed, the tension and anticipated awkwardness during dinner seemed to have dissipated considerably.

Let's leave it at that for now...

but!

She will show no mercy when she makes her move in the future, and she will not be willing to be a concubine just because her relationship with Zhao Meiyan has improved.

This is impossible.

Liu Zhimin seemed to understand what caused her awkwardness throughout the whole process.

It feels like the queen conquering a wild flower...

Liu Zhimin shook her head, quickly trying to shake off the feeling.

How can this work!

That evening, a post quietly appeared online.

[Title]: Ran into someone at XX restaurant this afternoon... OMG! This combination is too shocking! Zhao Meiyan and Karina having a private meal together!

[Blurred candid photo 1: Zhao Meiyan and Liu Zhimin are sitting in a booth by the floor-to-ceiling window. Zhao Meiyan is talking and laughing, while Liu Zhimin is looking down at the menu.]
[Blurry candid photo 2: The two appear to be talking, and the atmosphere seems quite peaceful.]
[Location: XX Restaurant in Jiangnan, window seat, definitely real! The two seem to be getting along well? Chatting and laughing! We weren't disturbed at all! Amazing! What a strange combination! Does anyone know the inside story?]

The post was quickly reposted to various forums.

Wow! Really? Miyeon and Karina had dinner together privately? This combination is so fresh!

[I sensed something was off when we shot the Challenge photoshoot last time; it seems they have a good relationship off-screen? These two beauties are such a sight for sore eyes!]

[Wow... how did these two end up together? Their art styles don't seem to match at all? But they're definitely good-looking from every angle.]

[Isn't the main point that they have such a good relationship in private?! I thought it was just a working relationship when they filmed Challenge last time, but now it seems they're really close?]

[You seemed to be having a good time chatting.]

Regardless, seeing these two beauties together is a feast for the eyes! Looking forward to more interactions!

Am I the only one curious about what they talked about? They seemed to be having a good time.

The post gained popularity, and discussions took on a wide range of topics.

Some people simply admired their good looks, while others were curious about the story behind the changes in their relationship, sparking a small-scale debate.

Although it didn't cause a huge uproar, this unexpected photo of them together was undoubtedly a welcome sight for fans and casual observers of K-pop.

Kim Jisoo, who was backstage at the concert, saw the message while scrolling through her phone at her dressing table. Her finger froze in mid-air as she swiped her finger.

What does this mean.

Just as she expected, there was no difference; the two of them had formed an alliance. All those unreliable things that Quan Xuanhe said were false.

Jisoo's expression became a little subtle. She glanced at it a few more times, then turned off her phone screen.

Kwon Hyun-hyuk should be here by now, right?
The scene changes.

Long queues formed outside the Olympic Gymnastics Arena, with a steady stream of fans gathering from all directions. The atmosphere was bustling and vibrant.

A completely black van slowly pulled up in the parking lot.

(End of this chapter)