A Woman Like a Black Swan

Xie Tingwan looked at herself in the fitting room mirror and couldn’t help but be astonished—Zhou Yi really had an eye for picking clothes.

The truth was, Zhou Yi understood women exceptionally well. He knew exactly what kind of outfits would flatter each woman.

In his previous life, he had dated so many girlfriends and accompanied them on countless shopping trips—hundreds, at the very least. A small matter like this was nothing to him.

"Do you like it, Wanwan? I think this outfit suits you perfectly. What do you think?"

"I love it, A-Yi. You have such great taste."

Xie Tingwan’s eyes sparkled as she twirled in front of the mirror.

Zhou Yi smiled and went to pay for it.

Buying clothes for women was a joyful experience for Zhou Yi.

Though it cost money, his eyes were treated to the sight of a woman’s beauty—so he certainly wasn’t losing out.

But Zhou Yi’s little scheme wasn’t just about indulging his eyes.

Winter was coming soon, and this outfit was clearly meant for the colder months. Every time she wore it, she would think of Zhou Yi.

And when she did, she’d feel an extra warmth, remembering his kindness.

Zhou Yi’s goal in buying the clothes was to make Xie Tingwan think of him whenever she saw them.

For couples or ambiguous pairs who couldn’t meet often, the most valuable gifts were things the other person would see or use frequently.

Unless it was something expensive meant for display, ordinary gifts should be practical—that way, the recipient would be reminded of you often.

Zhou Yi and Xie Tingwan returned to the hotel with their purchases.

After lunch, the group headed to the official competition in Rheims.

This competition was different from those back home—it had two categories of awards: one for individual performance and another for team performance.

With the help of his system, Zhou Yi naturally took first place in the individual competition.

China had won the team competition many times before, thanks to their consistently high average skill level.

But when it came to individual awards, they rarely clinched the top spot.

Either they’d win the individual competition and come in second for the team, or vice versa.

The last time they’d achieved a double victory was years ago.

But this time—they swept both first places!

When the results were announced, the entire team erupted in cheers.

Xie Tingwan was overjoyed. She hugged Zhou Yi, her eyes brimming with tears.

"We’re first! A double victory! A-Yi, you’re our pride!"

"Wanwan, you were amazing too. Everyone did brilliantly."

Zhou Yi smiled. Of course, he was happy—who didn’t feel a surge of national pride? He was no exception.

Teacher Yang, the team leader, immediately called back home to share the news. The excitement was palpable.

By the time the story reached China, it was being covered by numerous media outlets—not just on Weibo.

Since this was an academic achievement rather than entertainment news, it naturally dominated headlines and even topped Weibo’s trending list.

[Am I crazy for not being surprised that Zhou Yi pulled this off? But first place in the individual competition? Is he some kind of genius!?]

[Zhou Yi stands out even in the group photo. He’s holding the gold trophy, but my eyes are glued to his ridiculously handsome face. I’m such a shallow woman.]

[Double first place? That’s insane. Sending blessings from C University!]

[Zhou Yi looks so calm in the photo. Is this the gap between ordinary people and him...?]

[Wait, those other competitors aren’t ordinary either—they’re all top students, mostly from A University. The fact that Zhou Yi’s from Huai University still shocks me (no offense to Huai University).]

[So Brother Liyu is the elite among elites? I don’t even dare crack jokes anymore—afraid I’ll disrespect him (and the censors).]

[Ugh, it feels like more and more people are falling for Zhou Yi. Do I still stand a chance at becoming Mrs. Zhou? sobs]

[Wake up—it’s still broad daylight.]

Once again, Zhou Yi left everyone in awe.

Even the other competitors couldn’t help but discuss him.

"That Zhou isn’t just an incredible pianist—he’s also got a brilliant mind. A true genius."

"God even gave him flawless looks. It’s honestly unfair."

"I never expected Zhou to take first place. I thought Albert would win again—he’s held the title for three years straight."

"Well, Albert’s unbeaten streak has been broken. Will he reclaim it next year?"

"Records are meant to be broken. Zhou just set a new legend."

"I take back my bias against handsome guys. I shouldn’t have called him a useless pretty face."

After winning, Zhou Yi received countless congratulations and praise from fellow competitors.

His OTO contact list grew even longer.

Once the news broke, his WeChat was flooded with messages. He didn’t have time to reply to them all just yet.

"Everyone did an amazing job. Tonight, I’ll treat everyone to dinner. The principal said we can take three days to relax here—expenses covered by the school. Consider it a celebration."

Teacher Yang delivered the good news with a smile.

Zhou Yi, however, looked apologetic. "I’m sorry, Teacher. I already have plans tonight and can’t join the celebration. My sincerest apologies."

Xie Tingwan tilted her head. "Did you make new friends? Was it those two ladies who treated you to dinner at the restaurant last time?"

Zhou Yi chuckled. "No, it’s a private banquet hosted by Master Albedo. His student, Matthew, invited me yesterday. Since I already agreed, it wouldn’t be right to cancel."

"Albedo’s private banquet? OMG..."

"That means Albedo must really admire him. He’s such a reclusive artist—he rarely hosts gatherings."

"The gap between people is just too wide. Some are blessed with talent in every field."

"Captain Zhou, could you get me Master Albedo’s autograph? If it’s inconvenient, no worries."

Teacher Yang teased, "Maybe you should get Zhou Yi’s autograph first—it might be worth more someday."

The team burst into laughter, Zhou Yi included.

The teacher patted Zhou Yi’s shoulder, admiration shining in his eyes.

"Alright, go get ready. Celebrations can wait, but an invitation from Master Albedo is a rare opportunity. Make the most of it."

"Just one thing—be careful out there alone. If anything happens, call me immediately. If I lost our rising star, I’d never dare show my face back home."

Zhou Yi nodded with a gentle smile. "Understood, Teacher."

After bidding farewell to the team, Zhou Yi returned to the hotel, showered, and changed into a formal suit. Checking the time, he headed to the address on the invitation.

From the outside, it looked like an ordinary apartment.

The rumors about Albedo’s frugality seemed to be true.

Zhou Yi stood outside and texted Matthew. Moments later, Matthew came downstairs to greet him.

Beside him stood a strikingly beautiful woman with an air of icy elegance.

She wore a long black velvet dress, her hair elegantly pinned up, revealing a slender and graceful neck like that of a swan.

At this moment, she held a cigarette between her fingers, studying Zhou Yi with a measured gaze.

The first time Zhou Yi saw her, he thought of a black swan—

Noble, elegant, beautiful, and aloof.

Just like the woman before him.