As expected, Xi Luting was won over by Pan Ge. Her silver tongue was just for show; more importantly, Pan Ge truly had a firm grasp of Xi Luting's character flaws and emotional vulnerabilities. She even roped Han Lie into it.

"If that bastard is too stingy to spend money on you, I'll buy it for you!"

Wow, with just that one sentence, Han Lie's own initiative was sparked.

In the end, Little Cucumber decided to accept the gift. But she didn't agree overtly, nor did she even glance at Han Lie. She just focused on trying on the watches Pan Ge had picked out, occasionally offering concise opinions like, "This one looks nice," "Feels very comfortable on the wrist," or "Not easy to match with clothes." It was impossible to tell which one she truly preferred.

Gradually, Han Lie understood. You want me to accept a gift? Fine. But don't ask me; figure it out yourself. If I'm satisfied with the final gift, I'll accept it. But if I'm not... sorry, we're not that close.

Obviously, even though Xi Luting had forcibly suppressed her anger, she hadn't truly "forgiven" Han Lie. She was waiting for an out, a graceful way to accept.

Brother Lie smiled, silently calculating his disposable cash. Sigh, what poverty. After setting aside money for the anklet later, I'll have less than 500,000 left. Still, it's more than enough to buy a ladies' watch. Besides, Haohao's compensation money will arrive in two days, so it doesn't matter if I spend all my cash now. So, Han Lie observed even more attentively.

The shop they were currently browsing was Ulysse Nardin. In terms of quality, Ulysse Nardin watches are considered super-premium or ultra-luxury. However, in China, it's a niche brand with limited recognition. Its status is comparable to Blancpain and Vacheron Constantin, though it's even less famous than A. Lange & Söhne. But their unique designs and exquisite enamel micro-engraving craftsmanship truly set them apart; their top models could be considered works of art. Great designs, unique taste, niche, and sufficiently expensive—perfect as a gift for a girl.

Cartier? No dog would wear it! COUGH, COUGH. That specifically refers to Cartier's mass-produced low-end models like the Ballon Bleu. Those things are purely cash grabs, designed to fleece impressionable middle-class women, wannabe socialites, and internet celebrities. Cartier's high-end products, however, are still very impressive; that's a different matter entirely.

The above were not Han Lie's thoughts; Pan Ge was the one enlightening the pair. In the realm of luxury goods, she could be Han Lie's teacher and guiding light. Xi Luting also appeared swayed. She was someone who strongly rejected gaudiness, so she felt Ulysse Nardin's aesthetic suited her well.

The three watches that appealed to her the most were priced at 120,000, 230,000, and 370,000 respectively. Their colors were red, blue, and white. In terms of her displayed admiration, she liked the 120,000 one the most, followed by the 230,000 one. The 370,000 watch received only a cursory glance and wasn't on her wrist for more than thirty seconds. But after careful observation, Han Lie clearly noticed that whenever she hesitated, her gaze would invariably flit to the most expensive Marine series watch.

Alright, I get it.

Han Lie pulled out his card and said decisively, "I'll take the Marine series 1182."

Xi Luting couldn't hold back; her act finally crumbled. She covered her mouth with her hand, her eyes gleaming with dazzling surprise, and she even seemed a little overwhelmed. After snapping back to reality, her first instinct was to stop him. "No, I don't..."

"Its beauty suits you best." Han Lie didn't give her a chance to refuse, maxing out his boyfriend charm. "Price is not an issue. You deserve it."

Man, if not for juggling two at a time, Brother Lie would be the perfect boyfriend, wouldn't he?! Xi Luting was both surprised and touched, feeling giddy and overwhelmed.

Pan Ge's expression, however, was interesting. Her smile was warm, seemingly happy for Xi Luting, but her eyes were slightly cold and carried a hint of teasing, or perhaps even ridicule. She didn't look down on Xi Luting; she was just confident of her inevitable victory.

Han Lie saw through her attitude and suddenly felt uncomfortable. I appreciate your magnanimity, but trying to control me? That's not happening. I can handle my own affairs; I don't need you arranging them! Piss me off, and I'll sort you out too...

While they were paying, Han Lie was preoccupied with various thoughts, somewhat distracted. It was Pan Ge who proactively negotiated the discount. The official list prices of ultra-luxury watches often differ from the actual selling prices; the "public price" is often just a reference, while the "actual price" paid can vary due to factors like exchange rates, tax rates, and different VIP statuses. Pan Ge had impressive connections. She pulled out her Ulysse Nardin membership card and even mentioned her family's relationship with Zhang Chi, the CEO of Ulysse Nardin Greater China. The manager caved under the pressure and gave a 15% discount.

Pan Ge lifted her chin haughtily, seeking credit from Han Lie. "If it weren't for saving your money, I wouldn't have bothered going to such trouble…"

Yeah, yeah, you're such a saint! You even manage to take a jab at me while buying a watch. You're the greatest!

In the end, Han Lie spent 320,000 Dayang to acquire the Marine 1182 model that Xi Luting coveted so much.

"I'm going to the restroom, and then we'll go for dinner." Pan Ge glanced at the time, finally deciding to end the day's shopping spree. If Han Lie spent any more, even she would start to get envious. He was supposed to spend only 300,000 on Xi Luting, but now two items had already cost 450,000. Things were clearly getting out of hand. Empress Pan was not too pleased.

The moment Pan Ge turned to head to the restroom, Han Lie's eyes flickered. He quietly began to sow discord with Xi Luting. "Did you see the look and attitude from that 'submissive' Pan Ge just now? It was outrageous! You need to assert yourself!"

Xi Luting hadn't seen it, but she could imagine it well enough.

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