The Long Road Ahead: C06
A Fated Meeting
This novel was posted on cntranslations [dot] com, by anasiana. If you're not reading it there, you get what you get ￣へ￣)
How is this possible?
How is this possible?
Right then, the water had arrived with their food. The table was now filled with dishes for both of them and Shan Haiming, not being polite nor giving Xiao Ning the room to do so, began to eat.
Wang Hua stared at him, seeing his appearance, feeling unable to just let him be, and so went on to say, "I'll be going with you tonight too, okay?"
In response, Xiao Ning let out a sigh before giving Wang Hua a light nod.
"About you acting as my boyfriend, and attending some events. If you agree, you will of course be compensated with a part-time wage." Shan Haiming now had both elbows perched on the table as he continued, "If you agree with me, I'll help you take care of your problem."
After hanging up, Wang Hua gave Xiao Ning a nod, saying, "It shouldn't be a problem, so we will all be having lunch together."
The amount Shan Haiming ordered was already a lot, so after opening the menu and looking at the first inner page, without looking at it carefully, Xiao Ning closed it, then said, "There's nothing I feel like eating in particular, so those are enough."
Xiao Ning then hurriedly asked, "Didn't you say Shan Haiming is your boss?"
"About you acting as my boyfriend, and attending some events. If you agree, you will of course be compensated with a part-time wage." Shan Haiming now had both elbows perched on the table as he continued, "If you agree with me, I'll help you take care of your problem."
The desserts were brought in last, and Xiao Ning was originally at his limit for food. But as soon as the pumpkin soup was brought out, the fresh scent it exuded was just too appetising, it made Xiao Ning unable to hold back his desire for the dish. So he still went on to taste a spoonful, to discover a flavour which was refreshing and sweet. The delicate fragrance of the pumpkin was evident, and the purple sweet potatoes were not boiled until too soft. They were somehow still quite crisp, while not carrying a raw taste, having a flavour aptly described as rich. Plus, all these ingredients were coupled with a light soup, which was frankly perfect.
After taking a second look, he realised Shan Haiming had ordered all the dishes he wanted to eat, but he could not for the life of him make heads or tails of that man's tastes. So when he placed his own order, he went with what he thought would be delicious. "Um...I'll have the smoked salmon, the pineapple sweet and sour pork, the sticky rice, the orange juice tofu...ah, forget it. All this isn't necessary. Plus, if I order too much, I won't be able to eat them."
Xiao Ning then hurriedly asked, "Didn't you say Shan Haiming is your boss?"
Xiao Ning: "..."
"Yep, that's right. It's because Shan Haiming has no business with Rihua and started his own company buying and selling land. Um... Yao Jia Hua Ting, have you heard of it? That's the property our company currently has under development." Wang Hua then rubbed his chin, and continued explaining to Xiao Ning, "So do you get it now? Rihua is a large enterprise and they have two sons. Plus, you know, in those rich families there's bound to be some sort of resentment, right? The short of it is that his older brother has been at Rihua for several years, and is currently acting as the vice-general manager over there despite his young age. After he stays there for a few years, he's sure to build up his power in order to become the company's true helmsman. It seems the one who's going to inherit Rihua will be him, he'll become President Shan."
"You can ask him." Saying this, Shan Haiming used his chin to motion towards Xiao Ning.
Note: 无欲则刚: wú yù zé gāng: this idiom (based on a saying by Confucius) means that the lack of (selfish) desires breeds austerity/strength/staunchness/unyielding/firmness/rigidity (interpret it as you will because... idioms 〒▽〒) Anyway, so when you do have such desires, you can't possess that "strength/firmness/rigidity". But that's just one of who knows how many interpretations. Seriously, I edited this line a million times trying to pin down which word in English to fit this context for this line, key word is trying. My brain hurts ┗( T﹏T )┛ Think of it as you may. No food pics either. I'm going to take a nap.
"Relax. It won't be damaged at all." Shan Haiming shook his head, not knowing if he wanted to shake or nod as he added, "So say you agree."
Xiao Ning did not understand this. For him, life was simple, and topics of gossip never interested him. It was something he couldn't wrap his head around, and neither had he experienced it.
It was really delicious.
N/A
"You can ask him." Saying this, Shan Haiming used his chin to motion towards Xiao Ning.
While on the topic at hand, Wang Hua displayed a slight frown. "It also came to my attention that before, Shan Haiming wasn't all that ambitious... and it got him kicked off to Germany to study. After two years, he came back here, worked with some other folks and started his own company. But even with everything, he and your vice-general manager are still brothers. So I don't think that him helping you by putting in a few words should be a problem. Plus, didn't you help him out last time?"
Honestly speaking, back when he first entered Rihua, the interview process and training he went through were all rather difficult. But Rihua's employee welfare, salary and training system were all quite good. This made having a job there actually one of the rare decent jobs to find.
"Let's add a desert." Shan Haiming then told the waiter, "Recommend one."
After taking a second look, he realised Shan Haiming had ordered all the dishes he wanted to eat, but he could not for the life of him make heads or tails of that man's tastes. So when he placed his own order, he went with what he thought would be delicious. "Um...I'll have the smoked salmon, the pineapple sweet and sour pork, the sticky rice, the orange juice tofu...ah, forget it. All this isn't necessary. Plus, if I order too much, I won't be able to eat them."
After taking a second look, he realised Shan Haiming had ordered all the dishes he wanted to eat, but he could not for the life of him make heads or tails of that man's tastes. So when he placed his own order, he went with what he thought would be delicious. "Um...I'll have the smoked salmon, the pineapple sweet and sour pork, the sticky rice, the orange juice tofu...ah, forget it. All this isn't necessary. Plus, if I order too much, I won't be able to eat them."
In his hand, Shan Haiming was carrying a paper bag, looking as if he was just about to follow a waiter before Xiao Ning stood up and called out, "Mr Shan?"
These meals of theirs were eaten quite purely, and having seen Shan Haiming eating so earnestly, he also simply lowered his head and ate. Xiao Ning's appetite could be described as ordinary, so half of his order had remained. But when he raised his head to look, he saw that Shan Haiming's order was almost gone, making his earlier words true.
"Yep, that's right. It's because Shan Haiming has no business with Rihua and started his own company buying and selling land. Um... Yao Jia Hua Ting, have you heard of it? That's the property our company currently has under development." Wang Hua then rubbed his chin, and continued explaining to Xiao Ning, "So do you get it now? Rihua is a large enterprise and they have two sons. Plus, you know, in those rich families there's bound to be some sort of resentment, right? The short of it is that his older brother has been at Rihua for several years, and is currently acting as the vice-general manager over there despite his young age. After he stays there for a few years, he's sure to build up his power in order to become the company's true helmsman. It seems the one who's going to inherit Rihua will be him, he'll become President Shan."
An explosion of bitterness went off in Xiao Ning's heart, and Wang Hua probably just recalled how he had thrown Xiao Ning under the bus last time as well because even his expression became uneasy. "Um... back then, things must've been awkward for you, right? Because even I was left surprised."
At his question, Xiao Ning could only smile bitterly while replying, "I'm just worried my clumsiness will cause harm to Mr. Shan's business."
Wang Hua then went on to explain how Shan Haiming was specifically looking for a pretend boyfriend and not a girlfriend as if it was no big deal, saying, "Director Shan originally asked me to play the part out of nowhere. But do you see the tall and sturdy man I am? Even if I had pretended to be his partner, do you think anybody would believe it?"
Not showing much interest, Shan Haiming just said, "Just get one for him."
This made it clear Shan Haiming had not told Wang Hua about Xiao Ning refusing to continue helping him and having seen Xiao Ning offer him no response, Wang Hua, rather cheerily, consoled him: "But isn't this just perfect? A favour like this is not even a big deal, so Director Shan can help you with it without breaking a sweat."
Only a few minutes then passed, before Shan Haiming entered.
A hand in front of Xiao Ning's face then prevented him from continuing to speak, as Wang Hua had now already made the call. "Director Shan? Did I interrupt you? That's great! So, here's the thing, do you remember the guy named Xiao Ning I brought over to Baiye last time?"
Hearing that voice, Shan Haiming looked, then walked over. After casually taking a seat opposite Xiao Ning, he placed the paper bag on the table, only to then simply state: "The clothes."
Xiao Ning: "..."
While Wang Hua gave Shan Haiming a brief of the situation, Xiao Ning looked on at him with embarrassment. "Ah, great. Dinner then? Lunch? Okay. Jinge Restaurant? Oh, okay. I know the place, I'll tell him."
"I... I think this is unnecessary, " Xiao Ning muttered to himself under his breath. "Taking advantage of someone because you did them a favour is not a good thing to do."
"Relax. It won't be damaged at all." Shan Haiming shook his head, not knowing if he wanted to shake or nod as he added, "So say you agree."
He thought that failing to carry out his duty, writing a self-criticism letter, or having performance deductions didn't matter. But at the thought of letting himself lose his job and pay out compensation all because of something he did not do, he was truly unwilling.
"What preparations?" Shan Haiming waved his hand, seeming to be bored. "It's just a show. And, as I said before, there won't be any trouble on your end."
"Which part about this is a huge issue? And what part of it is you taking advantage? Xiao Ning, all this is, is one person helping out another and vice-versa, okay? Plus, didn't I tell you before it was possible you could end up making a new friend? He might even come looking for you to help him out again with something else next time, you know?"
The amount Shan Haiming ordered was already a lot, so after opening the menu and looking at the first inner page, without looking at it carefully, Xiao Ning closed it, then said, "There's nothing I feel like eating in particular, so those are enough."
After hanging up, Wang Hua gave Xiao Ning a nod, saying, "It shouldn't be a problem, so we will all be having lunch together."
These meals of theirs were eaten quite purely, and having seen Shan Haiming eating so earnestly, he also simply lowered his head and ate. Xiao Ning's appetite could be described as ordinary, so half of his order had remained. But when he raised his head to look, he saw that Shan Haiming's order was almost gone, making his earlier words true.
In response, Xiao Ning let out a sigh before giving Wang Hua a light nod.
But seeing Shan Haiming with his lowered head, eating without a care in the world, that back of Xiao Ning's, which had always been held straight, couldn't help but relax slightly until it finally bent, with him now picking up his own food and starting to eat as well.
But seeing Shan Haiming with his lowered head, eating without a care in the world, that back of Xiao Ning's, which had always been held straight, couldn't help but relax slightly until it finally bent, with him now picking up his own food and starting to eat as well.
It has been said, that the lack of selfish desires begets austerity. And despite Xiao Ning not being fond of imposing himself on others, there was still however apprehension in his heart, so that 'austerity' of his could no longer stand firm.
Xiao Ning found it difficult to tell him he had already come looking, so in the end he did not respond.
"Hey, didn't I explain it to you already, Xiao Ning?" Wang Hua, who rarely displayed a frown, then continued, "It doesn't matter if the incident at your job is the reason for all this, but it will be useful for you to make friends with someone like Shan Haiming because you can never know if later on in the future whether there'll be something to come up where his connections would be needed. So I'm telling you again, it's not that I'm trying to get you to go there and suck up to him. Just a meal won't kill you, will it?"
An explosion of bitterness went off in Xiao Ning's heart, and Wang Hua probably just recalled how he had thrown Xiao Ning under the bus last time as well because even his expression became uneasy. "Um... back then, things must've been awkward for you, right? Because even I was left surprised."
"Let's add a desert." Shan Haiming then told the waiter, "Recommend one."
A hand in front of Xiao Ning's face then prevented him from continuing to speak, as Wang Hua had now already made the call. "Director Shan? Did I interrupt you? That's great! So, here's the thing, do you remember the guy named Xiao Ning I brought over to Baiye last time?"
"I... I think this is unnecessary, " Xiao Ning muttered to himself under his breath. "Taking advantage of someone because you did them a favour is not a good thing to do."
"Around this time he mostly has nothing to do. Well, actually, most of the time he has nothing to do." Wang Hua was exceptionally earnest when carrying out tasks as a leader, so having said that, he had already pulled out his phone, readying himself to make the call. "But I still think you should be the one to talk to him yourself. We must also show our sincerity, don't you agree?"
These meals of theirs were eaten quite purely, and having seen Shan Haiming eating so earnestly, he also simply lowered his head and ate. Xiao Ning's appetite could be described as ordinary, so half of his order had remained. But when he raised his head to look, he saw that Shan Haiming's order was almost gone, making his earlier words true.
Xiao Ning while eating seemed quite at peace. He just... with no awareness for anything else, just simply ate, and did so for a long time. During his endeavour, Shan Haiming now used his hand to prop up his chin, tilting his head to have a proper look. He was amused, and now wore the slightest of smiles as he remarked, "You're rather fond of sweet things, aren't you?"
This was a rare sentence from Shan Haiming, as the tone carried from the words he usually spoke had, until now, been ambiguous, but this remark was one where the humour within it could be heard. It made Xiao Ning's hand stop upon hearing it, and once he recalled the soup was something ordered by Shan Haiming for him, without him realising it, a subtle and profound feeling gave rise in his heart.
Xiao Ning did not understand this. For him, life was simple, and topics of gossip never interested him. It was something he couldn't wrap his head around, and neither had he experienced it.
"Around this time he mostly has nothing to do. Well, actually, most of the time he has nothing to do." Wang Hua was exceptionally earnest when carrying out tasks as a leader, so having said that, he had already pulled out his phone, readying himself to make the call. "But I still think you should be the one to talk to him yourself. We must also show our sincerity, don't you agree?"
Only a few minutes then passed, before Shan Haiming entered.
Xiao Ning then hurriedly asked, "Didn't you say Shan Haiming is your boss?"
"Wang-ge." Xiao Ning almost wanted to snatch the phone from his hands. "Can you let me think it over for a minute..."
In response, Shan Haiming hummed, then said, "It's not that big of an issue, so there's no need to mention it again. But are you going to help me?"
A hand in front of Xiao Ning's face then prevented him from continuing to speak, as Wang Hua had now already made the call. "Director Shan? Did I interrupt you? That's great! So, here's the thing, do you remember the guy named Xiao Ning I brought over to Baiye last time?"
"Let's add a desert." Shan Haiming then told the waiter, "Recommend one."
This was a rare sentence from Shan Haiming, as the tone carried from the words he usually spoke had, until now, been ambiguous, but this remark was one where the humour within it could be heard. It made Xiao Ning's hand stop upon hearing it, and once he recalled the soup was something ordered by Shan Haiming for him, without him realising it, a subtle and profound feeling gave rise in his heart.
A hand in front of Xiao Ning's face then prevented him from continuing to speak, as Wang Hua had now already made the call. "Director Shan? Did I interrupt you? That's great! So, here's the thing, do you remember the guy named Xiao Ning I brought over to Baiye last time?"
But given that he had said this little, it was clear it was something he did not want to disclose to Xiao Ning; and Xiao Ning had no interest in asking any further. "Then uh..."
"You can ask him." Saying this, Shan Haiming used his chin to motion towards Xiao Ning.
While Wang Hua gave Shan Haiming a brief of the situation, Xiao Ning looked on at him with embarrassment. "Ah, great. Dinner then? Lunch? Okay. Jinge Restaurant? Oh, okay. I know the place, I'll tell him."
Xiao Ning: "..."
Xiao Ning found it difficult to tell him he had already come looking, so in the end he did not respond.
"Alright then. Please wait a while." They had ordered a lot of dishes, so after writing them down, their waiter left politely.
Seeing the waiter's smile drawn into a line, Xiao Ning again flipped through the menu, this time around noticing the items of that restaurant were more people-friendly than he thought. They had a combination of Chinese and Western dishes, and the names of the items were also clear. Plus, even though the prices weren't that affordable, they still weren't too expensive, and not at all the high price Xiao Ning had thought it would be.
"About you acting as my boyfriend, and attending some events. If you agree, you will of course be compensated with a part-time wage." Shan Haiming now had both elbows perched on the table as he continued, "If you agree with me, I'll help you take care of your problem."
This made it clear Shan Haiming had not told Wang Hua about Xiao Ning refusing to continue helping him and having seen Xiao Ning offer him no response, Wang Hua, rather cheerily, consoled him: "But isn't this just perfect? A favour like this is not even a big deal, so Director Shan can help you with it without breaking a sweat."
"You can ask him." Saying this, Shan Haiming used his chin to motion towards Xiao Ning.
After hanging up, Wang Hua gave Xiao Ning a nod, saying, "It shouldn't be a problem, so we will all be having lunch together."
But seeing Shan Haiming with his lowered head, eating without a care in the world, that back of Xiao Ning's, which had always been held straight, couldn't help but relax slightly until it finally bent, with him now picking up his own food and starting to eat as well.
But given that he had said this little, it was clear it was something he did not want to disclose to Xiao Ning; and Xiao Ning had no interest in asking any further. "Then uh..."
A hand in front of Xiao Ning's face then prevented him from continuing to speak, as Wang Hua had now already made the call. "Director Shan? Did I interrupt you? That's great! So, here's the thing, do you remember the guy named Xiao Ning I brought over to Baiye last time?"
By then, reluctance and embarrassment were completely etched on Xiao Ning's face, as he tried to refuse, saying, "Really, there's no need for..."
N/A
A hand in front of Xiao Ning's face then prevented him from continuing to speak, as Wang Hua had now already made the call. "Director Shan? Did I interrupt you? That's great! So, here's the thing, do you remember the guy named Xiao Ning I brought over to Baiye last time?"
Wearing a long-sleeved shirt, which had its sleeves rolled up to his elbows, the clothes Shan Haiming had worn could still be regarded as quite casual. Plus, given he currently paid no care towards his image as he ate the shrimp in front of him, the air he gave off was one of someone too young, too young to be a businessman. In contrast, across from him, Xiao Ning felt he, himself, had come dressed for business negotiations.
After hanging up, Wang Hua gave Xiao Ning a nod, saying, "It shouldn't be a problem, so we will all be having lunch together."
After leaving the hospital, Xiao Ning returned to his place to change into some slightly more formal attire. At noon on the dot, he arrived at Jinge Restaurant and took a seat by the window. He sat facing the entrance on purpose, doing so in order to see the people entering and leaving through the doorway.
"Hey, didn't I explain it to you already, Xiao Ning?" Wang Hua, who rarely displayed a frown, then continued, "It doesn't matter if the incident at your job is the reason for all this, but it will be useful for you to make friends with someone like Shan Haiming because you can never know if later on in the future whether there'll be something to come up where his connections would be needed. So I'm telling you again, it's not that I'm trying to get you to go there and suck up to him. Just a meal won't kill you, will it?"
Once Wang Hua saw that he was determined, he no longer insisted, and just said instead, "Hey, don't think of Director Shan as someone like that, okay? You just need to talk to him honestly. He's actually quite good at communicating."
In response, Shan Haiming hummed, then said, "It's not that big of an issue, so there's no need to mention it again. But are you going to help me?"
Hearing this, the waiter replied politely, "Our purple sweet potato and pumpkin soup is quite popular. Would you both like to give it a try?"
Xiao Ning now understood it all clearly, so with a touch of incredulity, he proceeded to ask, "Is my agreement a condition?"
But seeing Shan Haiming with his lowered head, eating without a care in the world, that back of Xiao Ning's, which had always been held straight, couldn't help but relax slightly until it finally bent, with him now picking up his own food and starting to eat as well.
Having heard his explanation, Xiao Ning did not say a word.
"What's there to thank me for?" Shan Haiming leaned back in his seat. Then without taking the menu offered by the waiter, he listed out his orders one by one: "The three-cup prawn, salted-crispy crab, chicken stuffed asparagus, and the wild mushroom laofan rice."
Xiao Ning did not understand this. For him, life was simple, and topics of gossip never interested him. It was something he couldn't wrap his head around, and neither had he experienced it.
How is this possible?
Shan Haiming's brows drew into a slight knit upon hearing this, but then once again relaxed. He then replied simply, "Because there's someone who wants to see that I like men, and there is also someone who doesn't want to."
Xiao Ning now understood it all clearly, so with a touch of incredulity, he proceeded to ask, "Is my agreement a condition?"
Xiao Ning while eating seemed quite at peace. He just... with no awareness for anything else, just simply ate, and did so for a long time. During his endeavour, Shan Haiming now used his hand to prop up his chin, tilting his head to have a proper look. He was amused, and now wore the slightest of smiles as he remarked, "You're rather fond of sweet things, aren't you?"
By then, reluctance and embarrassment were completely etched on Xiao Ning's face, as he tried to refuse, saying, "Really, there's no need for..."
Wang Hua stared at him, seeing his appearance, feeling unable to just let him be, and so went on to say, "I'll be going with you tonight too, okay?"
So now the two of them sat at their table in total silence.
These meals of theirs were eaten quite purely, and having seen Shan Haiming eating so earnestly, he also simply lowered his head and ate. Xiao Ning's appetite could be described as ordinary, so half of his order had remained. But when he raised his head to look, he saw that Shan Haiming's order was almost gone, making his earlier words true.
The desserts were brought in last, and Xiao Ning was originally at his limit for food. But as soon as the pumpkin soup was brought out, the fresh scent it exuded was just too appetising, it made Xiao Ning unable to hold back his desire for the dish. So he still went on to taste a spoonful, to discover a flavour which was refreshing and sweet. The delicate fragrance of the pumpkin was evident, and the purple sweet potatoes were not boiled until too soft. They were somehow still quite crisp, while not carrying a raw taste, having a flavour aptly described as rich. Plus, all these ingredients were coupled with a light soup, which was frankly perfect.
The amount Shan Haiming ordered was already a lot, so after opening the menu and looking at the first inner page, without looking at it carefully, Xiao Ning closed it, then said, "There's nothing I feel like eating in particular, so those are enough."
"You can ask him." Saying this, Shan Haiming used his chin to motion towards Xiao Ning.
"Let's add a desert." Shan Haiming then told the waiter, "Recommend one."
The amount Shan Haiming ordered was already a lot, so after opening the menu and looking at the first inner page, without looking at it carefully, Xiao Ning closed it, then said, "There's nothing I feel like eating in particular, so those are enough."
Upon hearing him say this, Xiao Ning again refused the man's kind act, replying, "Wang-ge, please just stay at home with my sister-in-law and my niece. I'll just go there by myself."
He thought that failing to carry out his duty, writing a self-criticism letter, or having performance deductions didn't matter. But at the thought of letting himself lose his job and pay out compensation all because of something he did not do, he was truly unwilling.
A Fated Meeting
This act of his left Xiao Ning taken aback.
"I... I think this is unnecessary, " Xiao Ning muttered to himself under his breath. "Taking advantage of someone because you did them a favour is not a good thing to do."
It has been said, that the lack of selfish desires begets austerity. And despite Xiao Ning not being fond of imposing himself on others, there was still however apprehension in his heart, so that 'austerity' of his could no longer stand firm.
His reasons for this choice were, first, due to his not wanting to keep Wang Hua back; and, second, about his not wanting Shan Haiming to mention that favour. Anyhow, Xiao Ning really did not want Wang Hua to hear them both discuss that matter.
Silence between strangers was not a good thing, and Xiao Ning, thinking that since the one in need of assistance was him, figured he should be the one to take the initiative, so he asked, "Director Shan, did Wang-ge already explain my situation to you?"
Once Wang Hua saw that he was determined, he no longer insisted, and just said instead, "Hey, don't think of Director Shan as someone like that, okay? You just need to talk to him honestly. He's actually quite good at communicating."
"Nope, not really." Shan Haiming's response was honest. "Anyhow, it was just a sentence. If you want to help me out, I'll make sure to say a few words on your behalf to give you a hand. But if you don't want to help me, on the other hand, if remember to mention it, may say a few words on your behalf."
He was being polite, you see, but Shan Haiming instead said, "You better order something for yourself, because the stuff I just ordered are my favourites. So I honestly can't say whether there'll be enough left back for you."
Not showing much interest, Shan Haiming just said, "Just get one for him."
In response, Xiao Ning let out a sigh before giving Wang Hua a light nod.
Hesitating for a while, he then said directly, "So what preparations do we need to make?"
He very much wanted to let out a sigh, but instead revealed a helpless smile. Truthfully speaking, this matter wasn't all that complex. It could even be thought of as him simply engaging in some social affairs.
"Hey, didn't I explain it to you already, Xiao Ning?" Wang Hua, who rarely displayed a frown, then continued, "It doesn't matter if the incident at your job is the reason for all this, but it will be useful for you to make friends with someone like Shan Haiming because you can never know if later on in the future whether there'll be something to come up where his connections would be needed. So I'm telling you again, it's not that I'm trying to get you to go there and suck up to him. Just a meal won't kill you, will it?"
Xiao Ning did not understand this. For him, life was simple, and topics of gossip never interested him. It was something he couldn't wrap his head around, and neither had he experienced it.
He very much wanted to let out a sigh, but instead revealed a helpless smile. Truthfully speaking, this matter wasn't all that complex. It could even be thought of as him simply engaging in some social affairs.
∽***∼
∽***∼
Xiao Ning: "..."
By then, reluctance and embarrassment were completely etched on Xiao Ning's face, as he tried to refuse, saying, "Really, there's no need for..."
Once Wang Hua saw that he was determined, he no longer insisted, and just said instead, "Hey, don't think of Director Shan as someone like that, okay? You just need to talk to him honestly. He's actually quite good at communicating."
It was really delicious.
After leaving the hospital, Xiao Ning returned to his place to change into some slightly more formal attire. At noon on the dot, he arrived at Jinge Restaurant and took a seat by the window. He sat facing the entrance on purpose, doing so in order to see the people entering and leaving through the doorway.
A hand in front of Xiao Ning's face then prevented him from continuing to speak, as Wang Hua had now already made the call. "Director Shan? Did I interrupt you? That's great! So, here's the thing, do you remember the guy named Xiao Ning I brought over to Baiye last time?"
"Around this time he mostly has nothing to do. Well, actually, most of the time he has nothing to do." Wang Hua was exceptionally earnest when carrying out tasks as a leader, so having said that, he had already pulled out his phone, readying himself to make the call. "But I still think you should be the one to talk to him yourself. We must also show our sincerity, don't you agree?"
He very much wanted to let out a sigh, but instead revealed a helpless smile. Truthfully speaking, this matter wasn't all that complex. It could even be thought of as him simply engaging in some social affairs.
It has been said, that the lack of selfish desires begets austerity. And despite Xiao Ning not being fond of imposing himself on others, there was still however apprehension in his heart, so that 'austerity' of his could no longer stand firm.
"Nope, not really." Shan Haiming's response was honest. "Anyhow, it was just a sentence. If you want to help me out, I'll make sure to say a few words on your behalf to give you a hand. But if you don't want to help me, on the other hand, if remember to mention it, may say a few words on your behalf."
But even if it's just a show, can't you act a bit more serious? Or at the very least, have a modicum of respect for the task?
While on the topic at hand, Wang Hua displayed a slight frown. "It also came to my attention that before, Shan Haiming wasn't all that ambitious... and it got him kicked off to Germany to study. After two years, he came back here, worked with some other folks and started his own company. But even with everything, he and your vice-general manager are still brothers. So I don't think that him helping you by putting in a few words should be a problem. Plus, didn't you help him out last time?"
Only a few minutes then passed, before Shan Haiming entered.
Xiao Ning now understood it all clearly, so with a touch of incredulity, he proceeded to ask, "Is my agreement a condition?"
Note: 无欲则刚: wú yù zé gāng: this idiom (based on a saying by Confucius) means that the lack of (selfish) desires breeds austerity/strength/staunchness/unyielding/firmness/rigidity (interpret it as you will because... idioms 〒▽〒) Anyway, so when you do have such desires, you can't possess that "strength/firmness/rigidity". But that's just one of who knows how many interpretations. Seriously, I edited this line a million times trying to pin down which word in English to fit this context for this line, key word is trying. My brain hurts ┗( T﹏T )┛ Think of it as you may. No food pics either. I'm going to take a nap.
Taking the bag, Xiao Ning then looked inside, seeing within it was a grey tracksuit, but clearly one which was not his own and quite obviously new. But he still took it and put it aside, then said, "Thank you."
After leaving the hospital, Xiao Ning returned to his place to change into some slightly more formal attire. At noon on the dot, he arrived at Jinge Restaurant and took a seat by the window. He sat facing the entrance on purpose, doing so in order to see the people entering and leaving through the doorway.
For a moment, his eyebrows then relaxed, and this was noticed by Shan Haiming, who once more told him, "Again, I really won't do anything to you. So what are you worried about?"
In his hand, Shan Haiming was carrying a paper bag, looking as if he was just about to follow a waiter before Xiao Ning stood up and called out, "Mr Shan?"
Xiao Ning kept getting the feeling this person was one who had no serious matters in their life and seemed as if they were just playing around, making him a bit worried, "Mr Shan, could I possibly know the reason why you need my help?"
In his hand, Shan Haiming was carrying a paper bag, looking as if he was just about to follow a waiter before Xiao Ning stood up and called out, "Mr Shan?"
After taking a second look, he realised Shan Haiming had ordered all the dishes he wanted to eat, but he could not for the life of him make heads or tails of that man's tastes. So when he placed his own order, he went with what he thought would be delicious. "Um...I'll have the smoked salmon, the pineapple sweet and sour pork, the sticky rice, the orange juice tofu...ah, forget it. All this isn't necessary. Plus, if I order too much, I won't be able to eat them."
Hearing that voice, Shan Haiming looked, then walked over. After casually taking a seat opposite Xiao Ning, he placed the paper bag on the table, only to then simply state: "The clothes."
However, seeing Shan Haiming act like this, Xiao Ning became more relaxed. This matter was truly not one too troublesome indeed. Besides, Lu Yan won't have the time to come looking for me, and I also currently have a bunch of time off work. It was really perfect timing in truth.
Drinking a glass of lemonade, Shan Haiming cast a glance towards him, then said, "It's fine. Order it. If you don't finish anything, you can just take it home."
The desserts were brought in last, and Xiao Ning was originally at his limit for food. But as soon as the pumpkin soup was brought out, the fresh scent it exuded was just too appetising, it made Xiao Ning unable to hold back his desire for the dish. So he still went on to taste a spoonful, to discover a flavour which was refreshing and sweet. The delicate fragrance of the pumpkin was evident, and the purple sweet potatoes were not boiled until too soft. They were somehow still quite crisp, while not carrying a raw taste, having a flavour aptly described as rich. Plus, all these ingredients were coupled with a light soup, which was frankly perfect.
Taking the bag, Xiao Ning then looked inside, seeing within it was a grey tracksuit, but clearly one which was not his own and quite obviously new. But he still took it and put it aside, then said, "Thank you."
Having heard his explanation, Xiao Ning did not say a word.
"Relax. It won't be damaged at all." Shan Haiming shook his head, not knowing if he wanted to shake or nod as he added, "So say you agree."
After taking a second look, he realised Shan Haiming had ordered all the dishes he wanted to eat, but he could not for the life of him make heads or tails of that man's tastes. So when he placed his own order, he went with what he thought would be delicious. "Um...I'll have the smoked salmon, the pineapple sweet and sour pork, the sticky rice, the orange juice tofu...ah, forget it. All this isn't necessary. Plus, if I order too much, I won't be able to eat them."
Taking the bag, Xiao Ning then looked inside, seeing within it was a grey tracksuit, but clearly one which was not his own and quite obviously new. But he still took it and put it aside, then said, "Thank you."
This act of his left Xiao Ning taken aback.
Once Wang Hua saw that he was determined, he no longer insisted, and just said instead, "Hey, don't think of Director Shan as someone like that, okay? You just need to talk to him honestly. He's actually quite good at communicating."
This was a rare sentence from Shan Haiming, as the tone carried from the words he usually spoke had, until now, been ambiguous, but this remark was one where the humour within it could be heard. It made Xiao Ning's hand stop upon hearing it, and once he recalled the soup was something ordered by Shan Haiming for him, without him realising it, a subtle and profound feeling gave rise in his heart.
"What's there to thank me for?" Shan Haiming leaned back in his seat. Then without taking the menu offered by the waiter, he listed out his orders one by one: "The three-cup prawn, salted-crispy crab, chicken stuffed asparagus, and the wild mushroom laofan rice."
After leaving the hospital, Xiao Ning returned to his place to change into some slightly more formal attire. At noon on the dot, he arrived at Jinge Restaurant and took a seat by the window. He sat facing the entrance on purpose, doing so in order to see the people entering and leaving through the doorway.
Hearing this, the waiter replied politely, "Our purple sweet potato and pumpkin soup is quite popular. Would you both like to give it a try?"
Xiao Ning did not understand this. For him, life was simple, and topics of gossip never interested him. It was something he couldn't wrap his head around, and neither had he experienced it.
The waiter wrote each one of them down, then asked, "Is that all, Sir?"
Xiao Ning while eating seemed quite at peace. He just... with no awareness for anything else, just simply ate, and did so for a long time. During his endeavour, Shan Haiming now used his hand to prop up his chin, tilting his head to have a proper look. He was amused, and now wore the slightest of smiles as he remarked, "You're rather fond of sweet things, aren't you?"
A hand in front of Xiao Ning's face then prevented him from continuing to speak, as Wang Hua had now already made the call. "Director Shan? Did I interrupt you? That's great! So, here's the thing, do you remember the guy named Xiao Ning I brought over to Baiye last time?"
Xiao Ning now understood it all clearly, so with a touch of incredulity, he proceeded to ask, "Is my agreement a condition?"
Xiao Ning found it difficult to tell him he had already come looking, so in the end he did not respond.
This made it clear Shan Haiming had not told Wang Hua about Xiao Ning refusing to continue helping him and having seen Xiao Ning offer him no response, Wang Hua, rather cheerily, consoled him: "But isn't this just perfect? A favour like this is not even a big deal, so Director Shan can help you with it without breaking a sweat."
After hanging up, Wang Hua gave Xiao Ning a nod, saying, "It shouldn't be a problem, so we will all be having lunch together."
N/A
"You can ask him." Saying this, Shan Haiming used his chin to motion towards Xiao Ning.
Xiao Ning found it difficult to tell him he had already come looking, so in the end he did not respond.
The amount Shan Haiming ordered was already a lot, so after opening the menu and looking at the first inner page, without looking at it carefully, Xiao Ning closed it, then said, "There's nothing I feel like eating in particular, so those are enough."
"I... I think this is unnecessary, " Xiao Ning muttered to himself under his breath. "Taking advantage of someone because you did them a favour is not a good thing to do."
By then, reluctance and embarrassment were completely etched on Xiao Ning's face, as he tried to refuse, saying, "Really, there's no need for..."
He thought that failing to carry out his duty, writing a self-criticism letter, or having performance deductions didn't matter. But at the thought of letting himself lose his job and pay out compensation all because of something he did not do, he was truly unwilling.
He was being polite, you see, but Shan Haiming instead said, "You better order something for yourself, because the stuff I just ordered are my favourites. So I honestly can't say whether there'll be enough left back for you."
But given that he had said this little, it was clear it was something he did not want to disclose to Xiao Ning; and Xiao Ning had no interest in asking any further. "Then uh..."
"Yep, that's right. It's because Shan Haiming has no business with Rihua and started his own company buying and selling land. Um... Yao Jia Hua Ting, have you heard of it? That's the property our company currently has under development." Wang Hua then rubbed his chin, and continued explaining to Xiao Ning, "So do you get it now? Rihua is a large enterprise and they have two sons. Plus, you know, in those rich families there's bound to be some sort of resentment, right? The short of it is that his older brother has been at Rihua for several years, and is currently acting as the vice-general manager over there despite his young age. After he stays there for a few years, he's sure to build up his power in order to become the company's true helmsman. It seems the one who's going to inherit Rihua will be him, he'll become President Shan."
Wearing a long-sleeved shirt, which had its sleeves rolled up to his elbows, the clothes Shan Haiming had worn could still be regarded as quite casual. Plus, given he currently paid no care towards his image as he ate the shrimp in front of him, the air he gave off was one of someone too young, too young to be a businessman. In contrast, across from him, Xiao Ning felt he, himself, had come dressed for business negotiations.
How is this possible?
Hesitating for a while, he then said directly, "So what preparations do we need to make?"
So now the two of them sat at their table in total silence.
∽***∼
Xiao Ning: "..."
Wang Hua stared at him, seeing his appearance, feeling unable to just let him be, and so went on to say, "I'll be going with you tonight too, okay?"
Seeing the waiter's smile drawn into a line, Xiao Ning again flipped through the menu, this time around noticing the items of that restaurant were more people-friendly than he thought. They had a combination of Chinese and Western dishes, and the names of the items were also clear. Plus, even though the prices weren't that affordable, they still weren't too expensive, and not at all the high price Xiao Ning had thought it would be.
What kind of excuse is that?
"Let's add a desert." Shan Haiming then told the waiter, "Recommend one."
"What's there to thank me for?" Shan Haiming leaned back in his seat. Then without taking the menu offered by the waiter, he listed out his orders one by one: "The three-cup prawn, salted-crispy crab, chicken stuffed asparagus, and the wild mushroom laofan rice."
It has been said, that the lack of selfish desires begets austerity. And despite Xiao Ning not being fond of imposing himself on others, there was still however apprehension in his heart, so that 'austerity' of his could no longer stand firm.
He was being polite, you see, but Shan Haiming instead said, "You better order something for yourself, because the stuff I just ordered are my favourites. So I honestly can't say whether there'll be enough left back for you."
After taking a second look, he realised Shan Haiming had ordered all the dishes he wanted to eat, but he could not for the life of him make heads or tails of that man's tastes. So when he placed his own order, he went with what he thought would be delicious. "Um...I'll have the smoked salmon, the pineapple sweet and sour pork, the sticky rice, the orange juice tofu...ah, forget it. All this isn't necessary. Plus, if I order too much, I won't be able to eat them."
Seeing the waiter's smile drawn into a line, Xiao Ning again flipped through the menu, this time around noticing the items of that restaurant were more people-friendly than he thought. They had a combination of Chinese and Western dishes, and the names of the items were also clear. Plus, even though the prices weren't that affordable, they still weren't too expensive, and not at all the high price Xiao Ning had thought it would be.
"Hey, didn't I explain it to you already, Xiao Ning?" Wang Hua, who rarely displayed a frown, then continued, "It doesn't matter if the incident at your job is the reason for all this, but it will be useful for you to make friends with someone like Shan Haiming because you can never know if later on in the future whether there'll be something to come up where his connections would be needed. So I'm telling you again, it's not that I'm trying to get you to go there and suck up to him. Just a meal won't kill you, will it?"
Wearing a long-sleeved shirt, which had its sleeves rolled up to his elbows, the clothes Shan Haiming had worn could still be regarded as quite casual. Plus, given he currently paid no care towards his image as he ate the shrimp in front of him, the air he gave off was one of someone too young, too young to be a businessman. In contrast, across from him, Xiao Ning felt he, himself, had come dressed for business negotiations.
Having heard his explanation, Xiao Ning did not say a word.
"Wang-ge." Xiao Ning almost wanted to snatch the phone from his hands. "Can you let me think it over for a minute..."
While on the topic at hand, Wang Hua displayed a slight frown. "It also came to my attention that before, Shan Haiming wasn't all that ambitious... and it got him kicked off to Germany to study. After two years, he came back here, worked with some other folks and started his own company. But even with everything, he and your vice-general manager are still brothers. So I don't think that him helping you by putting in a few words should be a problem. Plus, didn't you help him out last time?"
Once Wang Hua saw that he was determined, he no longer insisted, and just said instead, "Hey, don't think of Director Shan as someone like that, okay? You just need to talk to him honestly. He's actually quite good at communicating."
Drinking a glass of lemonade, Shan Haiming cast a glance towards him, then said, "It's fine. Order it. If you don't finish anything, you can just take it home."
"Around this time he mostly has nothing to do. Well, actually, most of the time he has nothing to do." Wang Hua was exceptionally earnest when carrying out tasks as a leader, so having said that, he had already pulled out his phone, readying himself to make the call. "But I still think you should be the one to talk to him yourself. We must also show our sincerity, don't you agree?"
In response, Xiao Ning let out a sigh before giving Wang Hua a light nod.
After leaving the hospital, Xiao Ning returned to his place to change into some slightly more formal attire. At noon on the dot, he arrived at Jinge Restaurant and took a seat by the window. He sat facing the entrance on purpose, doing so in order to see the people entering and leaving through the doorway.
Wang Hua then went on to explain how Shan Haiming was specifically looking for a pretend boyfriend and not a girlfriend as if it was no big deal, saying, "Director Shan originally asked me to play the part out of nowhere. But do you see the tall and sturdy man I am? Even if I had pretended to be his partner, do you think anybody would believe it?"
A Fated Meeting
Wearing a long-sleeved shirt, which had its sleeves rolled up to his elbows, the clothes Shan Haiming had worn could still be regarded as quite casual. Plus, given he currently paid no care towards his image as he ate the shrimp in front of him, the air he gave off was one of someone too young, too young to be a businessman. In contrast, across from him, Xiao Ning felt he, himself, had come dressed for business negotiations.
"You can ask him." Saying this, Shan Haiming used his chin to motion towards Xiao Ning.
Xiao Ning: "..."
His reasons for this choice were, first, due to his not wanting to keep Wang Hua back; and, second, about his not wanting Shan Haiming to mention that favour. Anyhow, Xiao Ning really did not want Wang Hua to hear them both discuss that matter.
This made it clear Shan Haiming had not told Wang Hua about Xiao Ning refusing to continue helping him and having seen Xiao Ning offer him no response, Wang Hua, rather cheerily, consoled him: "But isn't this just perfect? A favour like this is not even a big deal, so Director Shan can help you with it without breaking a sweat."
In response, Shan Haiming hummed, then said, "It's not that big of an issue, so there's no need to mention it again. But are you going to help me?"
"About you acting as my boyfriend, and attending some events. If you agree, you will of course be compensated with a part-time wage." Shan Haiming now had both elbows perched on the table as he continued, "If you agree with me, I'll help you take care of your problem."
Xiao Ning then hurriedly asked, "Didn't you say Shan Haiming is your boss?"
Hesitating for a while, he then said directly, "So what preparations do we need to make?"
Upon hearing him say this, Xiao Ning again refused the man's kind act, replying, "Wang-ge, please just stay at home with my sister-in-law and my niece. I'll just go there by myself."
"Let's add a desert." Shan Haiming then told the waiter, "Recommend one."
While Wang Hua gave Shan Haiming a brief of the situation, Xiao Ning looked on at him with embarrassment. "Ah, great. Dinner then? Lunch? Okay. Jinge Restaurant? Oh, okay. I know the place, I'll tell him."
Hearing this, the waiter replied politely, "Our purple sweet potato and pumpkin soup is quite popular. Would you both like to give it a try?"
Upon hearing him say this, Xiao Ning again refused the man's kind act, replying, "Wang-ge, please just stay at home with my sister-in-law and my niece. I'll just go there by myself."
Not showing much interest, Shan Haiming just said, "Just get one for him."
Xiao Ning did not understand this. For him, life was simple, and topics of gossip never interested him. It was something he couldn't wrap his head around, and neither had he experienced it.
"What's there to thank me for?" Shan Haiming leaned back in his seat. Then without taking the menu offered by the waiter, he listed out his orders one by one: "The three-cup prawn, salted-crispy crab, chicken stuffed asparagus, and the wild mushroom laofan rice."
Hearing this, the waiter replied politely, "Our purple sweet potato and pumpkin soup is quite popular. Would you both like to give it a try?"
In response, Xiao Ning let out a sigh before giving Wang Hua a light nod.
"Alright then. Please wait a while." They had ordered a lot of dishes, so after writing them down, their waiter left politely.
Upon hearing him say this, Xiao Ning again refused the man's kind act, replying, "Wang-ge, please just stay at home with my sister-in-law and my niece. I'll just go there by myself."
Right then, the water had arrived with their food. The table was now filled with dishes for both of them and Shan Haiming, not being polite nor giving Xiao Ning the room to do so, began to eat.
This act of his left Xiao Ning taken aback.
"Which part about this is a huge issue? And what part of it is you taking advantage? Xiao Ning, all this is, is one person helping out another and vice-versa, okay? Plus, didn't I tell you before it was possible you could end up making a new friend? He might even come looking for you to help him out again with something else next time, you know?"
"I... I think this is unnecessary, " Xiao Ning muttered to himself under his breath. "Taking advantage of someone because you did them a favour is not a good thing to do."
He very much wanted to let out a sigh, but instead revealed a helpless smile. Truthfully speaking, this matter wasn't all that complex. It could even be thought of as him simply engaging in some social affairs.
"I... I think this is unnecessary, " Xiao Ning muttered to himself under his breath. "Taking advantage of someone because you did them a favour is not a good thing to do."
In response, Shan Haiming hummed, then said, "It's not that big of an issue, so there's no need to mention it again. But are you going to help me?"
At his question, Xiao Ning could only smile bitterly while replying, "I'm just worried my clumsiness will cause harm to Mr. Shan's business."
What kind of excuse is that?
"Alright then. Please wait a while." They had ordered a lot of dishes, so after writing them down, their waiter left politely.
It has been said, that the lack of selfish desires begets austerity. And despite Xiao Ning not being fond of imposing himself on others, there was still however apprehension in his heart, so that 'austerity' of his could no longer stand firm.
So now the two of them sat at their table in total silence.
Xiao Ning kept getting the feeling this person was one who had no serious matters in their life and seemed as if they were just playing around, making him a bit worried, "Mr Shan, could I possibly know the reason why you need my help?"
"Alright then. Please wait a while." They had ordered a lot of dishes, so after writing them down, their waiter left politely.
"Let's add a desert." Shan Haiming then told the waiter, "Recommend one."
Xiao Ning found it difficult to tell him he had already come looking, so in the end he did not respond.
Xiao Ning: "..."
After taking a second look, he realised Shan Haiming had ordered all the dishes he wanted to eat, but he could not for the life of him make heads or tails of that man's tastes. So when he placed his own order, he went with what he thought would be delicious. "Um...I'll have the smoked salmon, the pineapple sweet and sour pork, the sticky rice, the orange juice tofu...ah, forget it. All this isn't necessary. Plus, if I order too much, I won't be able to eat them."
Drinking a glass of lemonade, Shan Haiming cast a glance towards him, then said, "It's fine. Order it. If you don't finish anything, you can just take it home."
Silence between strangers was not a good thing, and Xiao Ning, thinking that since the one in need of assistance was him, figured he should be the one to take the initiative, so he asked, "Director Shan, did Wang-ge already explain my situation to you?"
"Wang-ge." Xiao Ning almost wanted to snatch the phone from his hands. "Can you let me think it over for a minute..."
In response, Shan Haiming hummed, then said, "It's not that big of an issue, so there's no need to mention it again. But are you going to help me?"
"What preparations?" Shan Haiming waved his hand, seeming to be bored. "It's just a show. And, as I said before, there won't be any trouble on your end."
∽***∼
However, seeing Shan Haiming act like this, Xiao Ning became more relaxed. This matter was truly not one too troublesome indeed. Besides, Lu Yan won't have the time to come looking for me, and I also currently have a bunch of time off work. It was really perfect timing in truth.
Caught off guard, Xiao Ning blinked, asking, "What?"
While on the topic at hand, Wang Hua displayed a slight frown. "It also came to my attention that before, Shan Haiming wasn't all that ambitious... and it got him kicked off to Germany to study. After two years, he came back here, worked with some other folks and started his own company. But even with everything, he and your vice-general manager are still brothers. So I don't think that him helping you by putting in a few words should be a problem. Plus, didn't you help him out last time?"
Honestly speaking, back when he first entered Rihua, the interview process and training he went through were all rather difficult. But Rihua's employee welfare, salary and training system were all quite good. This made having a job there actually one of the rare decent jobs to find.
Once Wang Hua saw that he was determined, he no longer insisted, and just said instead, "Hey, don't think of Director Shan as someone like that, okay? You just need to talk to him honestly. He's actually quite good at communicating."
Once Wang Hua saw that he was determined, he no longer insisted, and just said instead, "Hey, don't think of Director Shan as someone like that, okay? You just need to talk to him honestly. He's actually quite good at communicating."
While on the topic at hand, Wang Hua displayed a slight frown. "It also came to my attention that before, Shan Haiming wasn't all that ambitious... and it got him kicked off to Germany to study. After two years, he came back here, worked with some other folks and started his own company. But even with everything, he and your vice-general manager are still brothers. So I don't think that him helping you by putting in a few words should be a problem. Plus, didn't you help him out last time?"
Wang Hua stared at him, seeing his appearance, feeling unable to just let him be, and so went on to say, "I'll be going with you tonight too, okay?"
What kind of excuse is that?
"About you acting as my boyfriend, and attending some events. If you agree, you will of course be compensated with a part-time wage." Shan Haiming now had both elbows perched on the table as he continued, "If you agree with me, I'll help you take care of your problem."
An explosion of bitterness went off in Xiao Ning's heart, and Wang Hua probably just recalled how he had thrown Xiao Ning under the bus last time as well because even his expression became uneasy. "Um... back then, things must've been awkward for you, right? Because even I was left surprised."
Xiao Ning now understood it all clearly, so with a touch of incredulity, he proceeded to ask, "Is my agreement a condition?"
"Yep, that's right. It's because Shan Haiming has no business with Rihua and started his own company buying and selling land. Um... Yao Jia Hua Ting, have you heard of it? That's the property our company currently has under development." Wang Hua then rubbed his chin, and continued explaining to Xiao Ning, "So do you get it now? Rihua is a large enterprise and they have two sons. Plus, you know, in those rich families there's bound to be some sort of resentment, right? The short of it is that his older brother has been at Rihua for several years, and is currently acting as the vice-general manager over there despite his young age. After he stays there for a few years, he's sure to build up his power in order to become the company's true helmsman. It seems the one who's going to inherit Rihua will be him, he'll become President Shan."
"About you acting as my boyfriend, and attending some events. If you agree, you will of course be compensated with a part-time wage." Shan Haiming now had both elbows perched on the table as he continued, "If you agree with me, I'll help you take care of your problem."
"You can ask him." Saying this, Shan Haiming used his chin to motion towards Xiao Ning.
Wang Hua stared at him, seeing his appearance, feeling unable to just let him be, and so went on to say, "I'll be going with you tonight too, okay?"
Xiao Ning found it difficult to tell him he had already come looking, so in the end he did not respond.
However, seeing Shan Haiming act like this, Xiao Ning became more relaxed. This matter was truly not one too troublesome indeed. Besides, Lu Yan won't have the time to come looking for me, and I also currently have a bunch of time off work. It was really perfect timing in truth.
Xiao Ning kept getting the feeling this person was one who had no serious matters in their life and seemed as if they were just playing around, making him a bit worried, "Mr Shan, could I possibly know the reason why you need my help?"
"Nope, not really." Shan Haiming's response was honest. "Anyhow, it was just a sentence. If you want to help me out, I'll make sure to say a few words on your behalf to give you a hand. But if you don't want to help me, on the other hand, if remember to mention it, may say a few words on your behalf."
Wang Hua then went on to explain how Shan Haiming was specifically looking for a pretend boyfriend and not a girlfriend as if it was no big deal, saying, "Director Shan originally asked me to play the part out of nowhere. But do you see the tall and sturdy man I am? Even if I had pretended to be his partner, do you think anybody would believe it?"
It was really delicious.
"Nope, not really." Shan Haiming's response was honest. "Anyhow, it was just a sentence. If you want to help me out, I'll make sure to say a few words on your behalf to give you a hand. But if you don't want to help me, on the other hand, if remember to mention it, may say a few words on your behalf."
For a moment, his eyebrows then relaxed, and this was noticed by Shan Haiming, who once more told him, "Again, I really won't do anything to you. So what are you worried about?"
Hearing this, the waiter replied politely, "Our purple sweet potato and pumpkin soup is quite popular. Would you both like to give it a try?"
It wasn't that Xiao Ning had not expected Shan Haiming to bring this matter up, it was just that he hadn't expected that guy to say it directly. So at this moment, he simply had no idea how he should feel.
Shan Haiming's brows drew into a slight knit upon hearing this, but then once again relaxed. He then replied simply, "Because there's someone who wants to see that I like men, and there is also someone who doesn't want to."
Xiao Ning kept getting the feeling this person was one who had no serious matters in their life and seemed as if they were just playing around, making him a bit worried, "Mr Shan, could I possibly know the reason why you need my help?"
Honestly speaking, back when he first entered Rihua, the interview process and training he went through were all rather difficult. But Rihua's employee welfare, salary and training system were all quite good. This made having a job there actually one of the rare decent jobs to find.
N/A
"Alright then. Please wait a while." They had ordered a lot of dishes, so after writing them down, their waiter left politely.
Xiao Ning then hurriedly asked, "Didn't you say Shan Haiming is your boss?"
Not showing much interest, Shan Haiming just said, "Just get one for him."
He very much wanted to let out a sigh, but instead revealed a helpless smile. Truthfully speaking, this matter wasn't all that complex. It could even be thought of as him simply engaging in some social affairs.
He very much wanted to let out a sigh, but instead revealed a helpless smile. Truthfully speaking, this matter wasn't all that complex. It could even be thought of as him simply engaging in some social affairs.
The amount Shan Haiming ordered was already a lot, so after opening the menu and looking at the first inner page, without looking at it carefully, Xiao Ning closed it, then said, "There's nothing I feel like eating in particular, so those are enough."
"Let's add a desert." Shan Haiming then told the waiter, "Recommend one."
It wasn't that Xiao Ning had not expected Shan Haiming to bring this matter up, it was just that he hadn't expected that guy to say it directly. So at this moment, he simply had no idea how he should feel.
Xiao Ning now understood it all clearly, so with a touch of incredulity, he proceeded to ask, "Is my agreement a condition?"
Seeing the waiter's smile drawn into a line, Xiao Ning again flipped through the menu, this time around noticing the items of that restaurant were more people-friendly than he thought. They had a combination of Chinese and Western dishes, and the names of the items were also clear. Plus, even though the prices weren't that affordable, they still weren't too expensive, and not at all the high price Xiao Ning had thought it would be.
Xiao Ning while eating seemed quite at peace. He just... with no awareness for anything else, just simply ate, and did so for a long time. During his endeavour, Shan Haiming now used his hand to prop up his chin, tilting his head to have a proper look. He was amused, and now wore the slightest of smiles as he remarked, "You're rather fond of sweet things, aren't you?"
Honestly speaking, back when he first entered Rihua, the interview process and training he went through were all rather difficult. But Rihua's employee welfare, salary and training system were all quite good. This made having a job there actually one of the rare decent jobs to find.
Hearing that voice, Shan Haiming looked, then walked over. After casually taking a seat opposite Xiao Ning, he placed the paper bag on the table, only to then simply state: "The clothes."
These meals of theirs were eaten quite purely, and having seen Shan Haiming eating so earnestly, he also simply lowered his head and ate. Xiao Ning's appetite could be described as ordinary, so half of his order had remained. But when he raised his head to look, he saw that Shan Haiming's order was almost gone, making his earlier words true.
So now the two of them sat at their table in total silence.
Only a few minutes then passed, before Shan Haiming entered.
"Around this time he mostly has nothing to do. Well, actually, most of the time he has nothing to do." Wang Hua was exceptionally earnest when carrying out tasks as a leader, so having said that, he had already pulled out his phone, readying himself to make the call. "But I still think you should be the one to talk to him yourself. We must also show our sincerity, don't you agree?"
Note: 无欲则刚: wú yù zé gāng: this idiom (based on a saying by Confucius) means that the lack of (selfish) desires breeds austerity/strength/staunchness/unyielding/firmness/rigidity (interpret it as you will because... idioms 〒▽〒) Anyway, so when you do have such desires, you can't possess that "strength/firmness/rigidity". But that's just one of who knows how many interpretations. Seriously, I edited this line a million times trying to pin down which word in English to fit this context for this line, key word is trying. My brain hurts ┗( T﹏T )┛ Think of it as you may. No food pics either. I'm going to take a nap.
Drinking a glass of lemonade, Shan Haiming cast a glance towards him, then said, "It's fine. Order it. If you don't finish anything, you can just take it home."
He thought that failing to carry out his duty, writing a self-criticism letter, or having performance deductions didn't matter. But at the thought of letting himself lose his job and pay out compensation all because of something he did not do, he was truly unwilling.
It wasn't that Xiao Ning had not expected Shan Haiming to bring this matter up, it was just that he hadn't expected that guy to say it directly. So at this moment, he simply had no idea how he should feel.
This act of his left Xiao Ning taken aback.
He thought that failing to carry out his duty, writing a self-criticism letter, or having performance deductions didn't matter. But at the thought of letting himself lose his job and pay out compensation all because of something he did not do, he was truly unwilling.
It has been said, that the lack of selfish desires begets austerity[1]. And despite Xiao Ning not being fond of imposing himself on others, there was still however apprehension in his heart, so that 'austerity' of his could no longer stand firm.
For a moment, his eyebrows then relaxed, and this was noticed by Shan Haiming, who once more told him, "Again, I really won't do anything to you. So what are you worried about?"
An explosion of bitterness went off in Xiao Ning's heart, and Wang Hua probably just recalled how he had thrown Xiao Ning under the bus last time as well because even his expression became uneasy. "Um... back then, things must've been awkward for you, right? Because even I was left surprised."
Honestly speaking, back when he first entered Rihua, the interview process and training he went through were all rather difficult. But Rihua's employee welfare, salary and training system were all quite good. This made having a job there actually one of the rare decent jobs to find.
Xiao Ning now understood it all clearly, so with a touch of incredulity, he proceeded to ask, "Is my agreement a condition?"
"Which part about this is a huge issue? And what part of it is you taking advantage? Xiao Ning, all this is, is one person helping out another and vice-versa, okay? Plus, didn't I tell you before it was possible you could end up making a new friend? He might even come looking for you to help him out again with something else next time, you know?"
"Let's add a desert." Shan Haiming then told the waiter, "Recommend one."
Xiao Ning: "..."
For a moment, his eyebrows then relaxed, and this was noticed by Shan Haiming, who once more told him, "Again, I really won't do anything to you. So what are you worried about?"
"Alright then. Please wait a while." They had ordered a lot of dishes, so after writing them down, their waiter left politely.
This act of his left Xiao Ning taken aback.
Once Wang Hua saw that he was determined, he no longer insisted, and just said instead, "Hey, don't think of Director Shan as someone like that, okay? You just need to talk to him honestly. He's actually quite good at communicating."
What kind of excuse is that?
How is this possible?
At his question, Xiao Ning could only smile bitterly while replying, "I'm just worried my clumsiness will cause harm to Mr. Shan's business."
Wearing a long-sleeved shirt, which had its sleeves rolled up to his elbows, the clothes Shan Haiming had worn could still be regarded as quite casual. Plus, given he currently paid no care towards his image as he ate the shrimp in front of him, the air he gave off was one of someone too young, too young to be a businessman. In contrast, across from him, Xiao Ning felt he, himself, had come dressed for business negotiations.
Honestly speaking, back when he first entered Rihua, the interview process and training he went through were all rather difficult. But Rihua's employee welfare, salary and training system were all quite good. This made having a job there actually one of the rare decent jobs to find.
What kind of excuse is that?
"Relax. It won't be damaged at all." Shan Haiming shook his head, not knowing if he wanted to shake or nod as he added, "So say you agree."
After hanging up, Wang Hua gave Xiao Ning a nod, saying, "It shouldn't be a problem, so we will all be having lunch together."
It was really delicious.
"About you acting as my boyfriend, and attending some events. If you agree, you will of course be compensated with a part-time wage." Shan Haiming now had both elbows perched on the table as he continued, "If you agree with me, I'll help you take care of your problem."
However, seeing Shan Haiming act like this, Xiao Ning became more relaxed. This matter was truly not one too troublesome indeed. Besides, Lu Yan won't have the time to come looking for me, and I also currently have a bunch of time off work. It was really perfect timing in truth.
Xiao Ning: "..."
Xiao Ning kept getting the feeling this person was one who had no serious matters in their life and seemed as if they were just playing around, making him a bit worried, "Mr Shan, could I possibly know the reason why you need my help?"
Xiao Ning then hurriedly asked, "Didn't you say Shan Haiming is your boss?"
"Which part about this is a huge issue? And what part of it is you taking advantage? Xiao Ning, all this is, is one person helping out another and vice-versa, okay? Plus, didn't I tell you before it was possible you could end up making a new friend? He might even come looking for you to help him out again with something else next time, you know?"
But given that he had said this little, it was clear it was something he did not want to disclose to Xiao Ning; and Xiao Ning had no interest in asking any further. "Then uh..."
He very much wanted to let out a sigh, but instead revealed a helpless smile. Truthfully speaking, this matter wasn't all that complex. It could even be thought of as him simply engaging in some social affairs.
Caught off guard, Xiao Ning blinked, asking, "What?"
Shan Haiming's brows drew into a slight knit upon hearing this, but then once again relaxed. He then replied simply, "Because there's someone who wants to see that I like men, and there is also someone who doesn't want to."
By then, reluctance and embarrassment were completely etched on Xiao Ning's face, as he tried to refuse, saying, "Really, there's no need for..."
"Relax. It won't be damaged at all." Shan Haiming shook his head, not knowing if he wanted to shake or nod as he added, "So say you agree."
By then, reluctance and embarrassment were completely etched on Xiao Ning's face, as he tried to refuse, saying, "Really, there's no need for..."
What kind of excuse is that?
This was a rare sentence from Shan Haiming, as the tone carried from the words he usually spoke had, until now, been ambiguous, but this remark was one where the humour within it could be heard. It made Xiao Ning's hand stop upon hearing it, and once he recalled the soup was something ordered by Shan Haiming for him, without him realising it, a subtle and profound feeling gave rise in his heart.
But given that he had said this little, it was clear it was something he did not want to disclose to Xiao Ning; and Xiao Ning had no interest in asking any further. "Then uh..."
Hearing this, the waiter replied politely, "Our purple sweet potato and pumpkin soup is quite popular. Would you both like to give it a try?"
Hesitating for a while, he then said directly, "So what preparations do we need to make?"
He was being polite, you see, but Shan Haiming instead said, "You better order something for yourself, because the stuff I just ordered are my favourites. So I honestly can't say whether there'll be enough left back for you."
In response, Xiao Ning let out a sigh before giving Wang Hua a light nod.
"Nope, not really." Shan Haiming's response was honest. "Anyhow, it was just a sentence. If you want to help me out, I'll make sure to say a few words on your behalf to give you a hand. But if you don't want to help me, on the other hand, if remember to mention it, may say a few words on your behalf."
"What preparations?" Shan Haiming waved his hand, seeming to be bored. "It's just a show. And, as I said before, there won't be any trouble on your end."
Caught off guard, Xiao Ning blinked, asking, "What?"
But even if it's just a show, can't you act a bit more serious? Or at the very least, have a modicum of respect for the task?
Note: 无欲则刚: wú yù zé gāng: this idiom (based on a saying by Confucius) means that the lack of (selfish) desires breeds austerity/strength/staunchness/unyielding/firmness/rigidity (interpret it as you will because... idioms 〒▽〒) Anyway, so when you do have such desires, you can't possess that "strength/firmness/rigidity". But that's just one of who knows how many interpretations. Seriously, I edited this line a million times trying to pin down which word in English to fit this context for this line, key word is trying. My brain hurts ┗( T﹏T )┛ Think of it as you may. No food pics either. I'm going to take a nap.
However, seeing Shan Haiming act like this, Xiao Ning became more relaxed. This matter was truly not one too troublesome indeed. Besides, Lu Yan won't have the time to come looking for me, and I also currently have a bunch of time off work. It was really perfect timing in truth.
Right then, the water had arrived with their food. The table was now filled with dishes for both of them and Shan Haiming, not being polite nor giving Xiao Ning the room to do so, began to eat.
Right then, the water had arrived with their food. The table was now filled with dishes for both of them and Shan Haiming, not being polite nor giving Xiao Ning the room to do so, began to eat.
A Fated Meeting
Wang Hua then went on to explain how Shan Haiming was specifically looking for a pretend boyfriend and not a girlfriend as if it was no big deal, saying, "Director Shan originally asked me to play the part out of nowhere. But do you see the tall and sturdy man I am? Even if I had pretended to be his partner, do you think anybody would believe it?"
Xiao Ning found it difficult to tell him he had already come looking, so in the end he did not respond.
Xiao Ning while eating seemed quite at peace. He just... with no awareness for anything else, just simply ate, and did so for a long time. During his endeavour, Shan Haiming now used his hand to prop up his chin, tilting his head to have a proper look. He was amused, and now wore the slightest of smiles as he remarked, "You're rather fond of sweet things, aren't you?"
"You can ask him." Saying this, Shan Haiming used his chin to motion towards Xiao Ning.
It was really delicious.
Shan Haiming's brows drew into a slight knit upon hearing this, but then once again relaxed. He then replied simply, "Because there's someone who wants to see that I like men, and there is also someone who doesn't want to."
Wearing a long-sleeved shirt, which had its sleeves rolled up to his elbows, the clothes Shan Haiming had worn could still be regarded as quite casual. Plus, given he currently paid no care towards his image as he ate the shrimp in front of him, the air he gave off was one of someone too young, too young to be a businessman. In contrast, across from him, Xiao Ning felt he, himself, had come dressed for business negotiations.
The waiter wrote each one of them down, then asked, "Is that all, Sir?"
But seeing Shan Haiming with his lowered head, eating without a care in the world, that back of Xiao Ning's, which had always been held straight, couldn't help but relax slightly until it finally bent, with him now picking up his own food and starting to eat as well.
But even if it's just a show, can't you act a bit more serious? Or at the very least, have a modicum of respect for the task?
Caught off guard, Xiao Ning blinked, asking, "What?"
Upon hearing him say this, Xiao Ning again refused the man's kind act, replying, "Wang-ge, please just stay at home with my sister-in-law and my niece. I'll just go there by myself."
However, seeing Shan Haiming act like this, Xiao Ning became more relaxed. This matter was truly not one too troublesome indeed. Besides, Lu Yan won't have the time to come looking for me, and I also currently have a bunch of time off work. It was really perfect timing in truth.
Honestly speaking, back when he first entered Rihua, the interview process and training he went through were all rather difficult. But Rihua's employee welfare, salary and training system were all quite good. This made having a job there actually one of the rare decent jobs to find.
His reasons for this choice were, first, due to his not wanting to keep Wang Hua back; and, second, about his not wanting Shan Haiming to mention that favour. Anyhow, Xiao Ning really did not want Wang Hua to hear them both discuss that matter.
Having heard his explanation, Xiao Ning did not say a word.
These meals of theirs were eaten quite purely, and having seen Shan Haiming eating so earnestly, he also simply lowered his head and ate. Xiao Ning's appetite could be described as ordinary, so half of his order had remained. But when he raised his head to look, he saw that Shan Haiming's order was almost gone, making his earlier words true.
In his hand, Shan Haiming was carrying a paper bag, looking as if he was just about to follow a waiter before Xiao Ning stood up and called out, "Mr Shan?"
The desserts were brought in last, and Xiao Ning was originally at his limit for food. But as soon as the pumpkin soup was brought out, the fresh scent it exuded was just too appetising, it made Xiao Ning unable to hold back his desire for the dish. So he still went on to taste a spoonful, to discover a flavour which was refreshing and sweet. The delicate fragrance of the pumpkin was evident, and the purple sweet potatoes were not boiled until too soft. They were somehow still quite crisp, while not carrying a raw taste, having a flavour aptly described as rich. Plus, all these ingredients were coupled with a light soup, which was frankly perfect.
In response, Xiao Ning let out a sigh before giving Wang Hua a light nod.
It was really delicious.
Taking the bag, Xiao Ning then looked inside, seeing within it was a grey tracksuit, but clearly one which was not his own and quite obviously new. But he still took it and put it aside, then said, "Thank you."
Xiao Ning then hurriedly asked, "Didn't you say Shan Haiming is your boss?"
While on the topic at hand, Wang Hua displayed a slight frown. "It also came to my attention that before, Shan Haiming wasn't all that ambitious... and it got him kicked off to Germany to study. After two years, he came back here, worked with some other folks and started his own company. But even with everything, he and your vice-general manager are still brothers. So I don't think that him helping you by putting in a few words should be a problem. Plus, didn't you help him out last time?"
Note: 无欲则刚: wú yù zé gāng: this idiom (based on a saying by Confucius) means that the lack of (selfish) desires breeds austerity/strength/staunchness/unyielding/firmness/rigidity (interpret it as you will because... idioms 〒▽〒) Anyway, so when you do have such desires, you can't possess that "strength/firmness/rigidity". But that's just one of who knows how many interpretations. Seriously, I edited this line a million times trying to pin down which word in English to fit this context for this line, key word is trying. My brain hurts ┗( T﹏T )┛ Think of it as you may. No food pics either. I'm going to take a nap.
"Around this time he mostly has nothing to do. Well, actually, most of the time he has nothing to do." Wang Hua was exceptionally earnest when carrying out tasks as a leader, so having said that, he had already pulled out his phone, readying himself to make the call. "But I still think you should be the one to talk to him yourself. We must also show our sincerity, don't you agree?"
Xiao Ning while eating seemed quite at peace. He just... with no awareness for anything else, just simply ate, and did so for a long time. During his endeavour, Shan Haiming now used his hand to prop up his chin, tilting his head to have a proper look. He was amused, and now wore the slightest of smiles as he remarked, "You're rather fond of sweet things, aren't you?"
This made it clear Shan Haiming had not told Wang Hua about Xiao Ning refusing to continue helping him and having seen Xiao Ning offer him no response, Wang Hua, rather cheerily, consoled him: "But isn't this just perfect? A favour like this is not even a big deal, so Director Shan can help you with it without breaking a sweat."
But even if it's just a show, can't you act a bit more serious? Or at the very least, have a modicum of respect for the task?
Xiao Ning now understood it all clearly, so with a touch of incredulity, he proceeded to ask, "Is my agreement a condition?"
Taking the bag, Xiao Ning then looked inside, seeing within it was a grey tracksuit, but clearly one which was not his own and quite obviously new. But he still took it and put it aside, then said, "Thank you."
This made it clear Shan Haiming had not told Wang Hua about Xiao Ning refusing to continue helping him and having seen Xiao Ning offer him no response, Wang Hua, rather cheerily, consoled him: "But isn't this just perfect? A favour like this is not even a big deal, so Director Shan can help you with it without breaking a sweat."
This was a rare sentence from Shan Haiming, as the tone carried from the words he usually spoke had, until now, been ambiguous, but this remark was one where the humour within it could be heard. It made Xiao Ning's hand stop upon hearing it, and once he recalled the soup was something ordered by Shan Haiming for him, without him realising it, a subtle and profound feeling gave rise in his heart.
The desserts were brought in last, and Xiao Ning was originally at his limit for food. But as soon as the pumpkin soup was brought out, the fresh scent it exuded was just too appetising, it made Xiao Ning unable to hold back his desire for the dish. So he still went on to taste a spoonful, to discover a flavour which was refreshing and sweet. The delicate fragrance of the pumpkin was evident, and the purple sweet potatoes were not boiled until too soft. They were somehow still quite crisp, while not carrying a raw taste, having a flavour aptly described as rich. Plus, all these ingredients were coupled with a light soup, which was frankly perfect.
Xiao Ning found it difficult to tell him he had already come looking, so in the end he did not respond.
Xiao Ning did not understand this. For him, life was simple, and topics of gossip never interested him. It was something he couldn't wrap his head around, and neither had he experienced it.
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