The Green Tea Supporting Girl Is Still Playing Her Role Today (GL) - Chapter 22

Chapter 22

Wen Pinghan was accompanying Wu Qianqian in the museum’s gift shop, helping her pick out small presents when she received a call from Xie Zhifei. After briefly mentioning her location, she hung up.

“You’ve got a friend coming?” Wu Qianqian asked.

“Yeah, it’s Ms. Xie. She’ll be here soon,” Wen Pinghan replied.

Wu Qianqian was surprised. “You two are that close? She’s coming to hang out with you on the weekend?”

“She’s worried I might get poached and wants to convince me to stay,” Wen Pinghan said.

“Damn, girl, you’re killing it! To think a market manager would personally come to keep you!” Wu Qianqian was genuinely shocked.

Wen Pinghan smiled, knowing Xie Zhifei’s motives weren’t entirely about retaining talent. Part of it was likely to keep her from joining Gu Zhizhang’s company, though how much that factored in, she couldn’t say.

“Sister!”

As they were talking, a clear voice called out from behind. Wen Pinghan turned. “You’re here?”

Xie Zhifei approached with a bright smile, greeted them both, and naturally joined their shopping. When she learned Wu Qianqian was buying gifts for colleagues and students, Xie Zhifei suggested some quirky items for the colleagues and picked out a few fun bookmarks perfect for students.

Wu Qianqian loved the suggestions and selected a pile of gifts. When she went to pay, Xie Zhifei beat her to it and settled the bill.

“No way, that’s too much!” Wu Qianqian protested, trying to send her the money via WeChat, only to realize they weren’t connected. “Ms. Xie, let’s add each other as friends, and I’ll transfer the money.”

“We can add each other, but keep the money. It’s not expensive,” Xie Zhifei said, showing her QR code.

Wu Qianqian insisted on paying, but Xie Zhifei refused with a smile. “How about you treat me to a meal instead?”

“Deal! I’ll cover lunch. What do you feel like eating, Ms. Xie?” Wu Qianqian asked.

“I’m not picky. Anything works.”

Wu Qianqian turned to Wen Pinghan. “Any idea what Ms. Xie likes?”

Wen Pinghan thought for a moment, glanced at Xie Zhifei, and said, “Seafood, probably.”

She hadn’t taken her to a proper seafood meal yet.

Xie Zhifei flashed a knowing grin, showing her teeth.

“Alright, seafood it is!” Wu Qianqian said, grabbing her two bags of gifts as they headed out.

Wen Pinghan followed but suddenly felt a tug on her sleeve. A bookmark was held out to her.

“This is for you,” Xie Zhifei said with a gentle smile.

“Thanks.” Wen Pinghan took it and glanced at the text on it—

‘One more.’

Wen Pinghan: “…”

“Congratulations, you won!” Xie Zhifei handed her another bookmark. “Here’s your prize.”

Wen Pinghan looked at the new one—

‘First Prize.’

“Wow, first prize!” Xie Zhifei’s smile faded as she shook Wen Pinghan’s hand solemnly. “Congratulations on winning this year’s Xie Zhifei Best Individual Choice Award. You’ll receive a bonus of 88,000 at the end of the year in my name!”

Wen Pinghan: “…”

“There’s a prize like that?” Wu Qianqian’s eyes widened, clearly impressed. She looked at Wen Pinghan, curious about her response.

“Is this what you call sincerity?” Wen Pinghan said with a laugh. “This is clearly a setup.”

“You don’t like it?” Xie Zhifei asked, feigning innocence.

“It’s alright.” Wen Pinghan pocketed both bookmarks with a light chuckle. “But you can keep the Best Individual Choice Award.”

“Aw!”

The three headed to a nearby seafood restaurant. Wu Qianqian was about to sit when she noticed Xie Zhifei had already taken the seat next to Wen Pinghan. She placed her bags on the other side’s empty seat.

After ordering, Wu Qianqian asked what drinks they wanted.

Xie Zhifei was busy texting and didn’t hear. Wen Pinghan glanced at her and said, “Get her a bottle of Cool Guy Milk.”

“Come on, don’t mess around,” Wu Qianqian said, half-joking. “No way Ms. Xie drinks that. Don’t worry, a few drinks won’t break my wallet.”

Xie Zhifei put her phone away and looked up. “I’ll take Cool Guy.”

“Alright, Ms. Xie, you’re too kind.” Wu Qianqian assumed she was trying to save her money and liked her even more. She couldn’t help but chat. “How old are you, Ms. Xie?”

“Twenty-six, single. I’ve got an old dad at home, also single. If you’re thinking of matchmaking, start with him,” Xie Zhifei answered in one go, leaving Wu Qianqian stunned before she burst out laughing.

“You’re hilarious, Ms. Xie,” Wu Qianqian said, delighted.

Xie Zhifei grinned. Soon, the food arrived.

As they peeled shrimp and chatted, the conversation somehow turned to college days. Wu Qianqian kept sighing about how those were the happiest, freest times.

“Morning classes were the worst. Couldn’t get up, just couldn’t. We’d have our roommate mimic different voices to answer roll call for us. Yep, Pinghan was that poor roommate,” Wu Qianqian said, laughing. “She was amazing, though. No matter how late she worked, she never skipped class. Four years of college, she was probably the only one in our class with perfect attendance.”

Xie Zhifei wasn’t surprised. She knew the protagonist’s family background and how much she valued her education, even taking loans for tuition. Naturally, she wouldn’t waste her time at school.

But she played dumb, looking at Wen Pinghan in surprise. “That impressive? Morning classes were that appealing?”

“Yeah, there was this hot guy. Had to get up early to see him,” Wen Pinghan said calmly, eating a piece of shrimp.

Xie Zhifei was genuinely shocked. The original story didn’t mention her dating in college. Was there no romance, or was it just not written?

“Which hot guy?” Xie Zhifei asked, curious.

“Our department head. He was in his fifties, but his classes were fun and engaging, so we called him the hot guy,” Wu Qianqian said with a laugh. “I remember he always wore a suit and tie to class. But one time, he didn’t wear a tie, and Pinghan asked him why after class. He said his wife was out of town, and since no one was there to appreciate it, he didn’t bother. We were so jealous—lots of girls in our class wanted a husband like that.”

“That’s pretty enviable,” Xie Zhifei said with a nod, then turned to Wen Pinghan with an eager look. “Is that the kind of person you’d want to find?”

Wen Pinghan paused, glanced at her, and placed a peeled shrimp in her bowl. “Why are you asking?”

“Just curious.”

“Well, I’m curious too. Would you like someone like that?”

“I think so. Someone gentle and thoughtful—being his wife would probably be pretty great,” Xie Zhifei guessed.

Wen Pinghan nodded, then asked with an ambiguous tone, “But you haven’t gone for someone like that, have you?”

“No choice. Good men are rare, and I’m so busy with work, where’s the time to find one?” Xie Zhifei ate the shrimp. “Mmm, the shrimp you peeled is delicious!”

“Sweet talker,” Wen Pinghan said with a smile. “Why not wait a bit longer? Maybe you’ll meet someone who’s only gentle and thoughtful to you.”

“I’m waiting,” Xie Zhifei said with a grin.

Wen Pinghan thought: ‘Waiting all these years for Gu Zhizhang? That guy doesn’t even see your feelings. Why put yourself through that?’

Noticing Wu Qianqian across the table, she didn’t continue and instead asked about Wu Qianqian’s love life.

“Embarrassing to say, but I might beat you two beauties to the punch,” Wu Qianqian said, blushing. “My family set me up with someone. He’s decent in every way, and things are going well. Qixi Festival is in two weeks, so we’ll see how he does.”

“That’s great news. Congrats in advance,” Wen Pinghan said with a smile.

“Keep your eyes open. Don’t get too swept away,” Xie Zhifei warned.

Wen Pinghan thought: ‘You, a hopeless romantic, have the nerve to say that?’

“Don’t worry, I’m not that easy to fool,” Wu Qianqian said, laughing.

After lunch, the three looked at each other, seemingly waiting for someone to suggest the next plan.

Wen Pinghan spoke first. “What’s next for you?”

“Hanging out with you guys. Where are you headed? Mind if I tag along?” Xie Zhifei asked.

“Are you really not busy?” Wen Pinghan countered. “Your secretary, Liu, was messaging you non-stop, wasn’t she?”

“It’s fine, I can handle it. You’re my top priority right now,” Xie Zhifei said with a grin.

Wu Qianqian let out a suggestive, “Ooooh~ If you weren’t a woman, Ms. Xie, I’d think you were chasing our Pinghan~”

“Really?” Xie Zhifei said, surprised. “But it’s the truth.”

“Ooooh~”

Wen Pinghan: “Keep ooh-ing, see what happens.”

Wu Qianqian covered her mouth, laughing, then said, “We’re heading to the amusement park later. You in, Ms. Xie?”

“Absolutely, I’m in!”

The amusement park idea was Wu Qianqian’s from the night before. She knew Wen Pinghan never had the chance—or the money—to spend a day at places like that during college. Often, while her roommates went out to have fun, Wen Pinghan was working. Sometimes they’d offer to treat her, but she’d refuse. Even after starting work, she rarely hung out with colleagues, so Wu Qianqian wanted to take her for a fun day out.

It was the weekend, and Wen Pinghan agreed, though amusement parks weren’t really her thing. She knew Wu Qianqian loved them, so she was happy to go along.

She just hadn’t expected Xie Zhifei to join.

The amusement park was a bit far, so Xie Zhifei offered her car, driven by a chauffeur.

Wu Qianqian climbed in, unable to hide her excitement, looking around and exclaiming “Wow!” She took out her phone for selfies, pulling Wen Pinghan in. “Come on, let’s get a nine-square grid photo.”

Wen Pinghan gave a half-hearted smile, humoring her for a few shots. When she turned, she saw Xie Zhifei looking back from the front passenger seat, her eyes full of longing.

“You… want to take one?” Wen Pinghan asked uncertainly.

“Can I?!”

Xie Zhifei whipped out her phone, angling it awkwardly to fit everyone in. Wu Qianqian, unable to handle the odd angle, ducked aside, letting the two “beauties” take the photo.

Xie Zhifei happily reviewed the fresh selfie, vaguely hearing a mutter from the back: “Is she actually addicted to selfies?”

“What did you say, sister?” Xie Zhifei turned to confirm.

“Nothing, just praising you. You’re truly brilliant, little sis,” Wen Pinghan said.

“Really?” Xie Zhifei asked, skeptical.

“Absolutely.”

“Heh, I am pretty brilliant,” Xie Zhifei said, not谦虚 at all.

Wu Qianqian, who heard everything: “…”

The amusement park was packed on Sunday. The ticket line at the entrance was daunting, but since they’d come so far and booked tickets online, it’d be a shame to leave. Wen Pinghan and Wu Qianqian joined the queue, but Xie Zhifei lagged behind, making a call.

“Ms. Xie’s such a busy woman,” Wu Qianqian remarked.

“Yeah,” Wen Pinghan said, eyeing the crowd. It’d probably be just as packed inside. When Xie Zhifei hung up and approached, she said, “It’s too crowded here. You’re wasting your time. You should go back and focus on work.”

Xie Zhifei looked at her, confused, and waved her phone. “I wasn’t on a work call. I just pulled some strings.”

The two: “?”

Soon, the park manager came out, greeting Xie Zhifei with a big smile and respectfully leading them through the VIP entrance.

“Is this Ms. Xie’s family business?” Wu Qianqian whispered to Wen Pinghan, who was equally clueless and looked to Xie Zhifei for answers.

“It’s Xiaojing’s family business. I asked the manager to get you VIP passes. You can come back and play for free anytime,” Xie Zhifei said.

“Really?!” Wu Qianqian was thrilled but hesitant. “I can’t accept that without earning it.”

“No worries. I feel like we click, so consider it a small gesture,” Xie Zhifei insisted. “Don’t overthink it. You can treat me to dinner tonight if you want.”

“Deal.” With that, Wu Qianqian accepted, smiling. “Thanks.”

Wen Pinghan looked at Xie Zhifei. “What about mine?”

“Yours is a reward for overtime,” Xie Zhifei said with a grin.

Once the manager issued their passes, they could enjoy all the attractions freely. After thanking him, they went off to explore.

“Roller coaster, you guys in?” Wu Qianqian, craving thrills, headed straight for it.

Wen Pinghan had never ridden one but figured it couldn’t be that bad, so she followed. A few steps in, someone grabbed her arm. She turned to see a nervous Xie Zhifei.

“Are you scared of this thing?” Xie Zhifei whispered.

“If you’re scared, wait for us down here,” Wen Pinghan suggested.

“Scared? Ha, I’m not scared,” Xie Zhifei said, despite never having tried it. Seizing the chance, she straightened up proudly. “I’m not like you guys.”

‘I’ve got a cheat code!’

[System, system, help me out. Can you make sure I’m not scared later?] Xie Zhifei tapped the system.

System: [That doesn’t seem to be within the task scope.]

Xie Zhifei: [With our human-machine bond, you won’t even help with this? If you’re that heartless, don’t blame me for being ruthless.]

System: [What are you gonna do… No, don’t mess with my IP! The Main God will think I’m slacking!]

[Help or not?]

[Fine, fine, I’ll help! No fear, I’ve got this!] the system vowed.

Reassured, Xie Zhifei followed Wen Pinghan to the roller coaster. Wen Pinghan glanced at her, concerned. “If you’re really scared, don’t come up. We’ll be done quick.”

“There’s no ‘scared’ in Xie Zhifei’s dictionary!” Xie Zhifei declared boldly.

The three sat down, and Xie Zhifei buckled her seatbelt. As she gripped the handrail, someone tightly grasped her hand.

She glanced over, staring at the slender hand for a moment before meeting its owner’s encouraging gaze, clearly trying to ease her nervous fear.

Her heart warmed. She gripped the hand back, rubbing it briefly before saying in surprise, “Sister, why’s your hand so cold?”

“It’s always like that,” Wen Pinghan said.

Xie Zhifei rubbed it again, but it didn’t warm up, so she kept holding it. “It’s cool. Feels nice in the summer.”

“Right?” Wu Qianqian chimed in, turning her head. “Back in the summer, we used to hold her hands and arms. She’s like a human air conditioner.”

“Totally,” Xie Zhifei said, grinning and stroking Wen Pinghan’s hand non-stop.

Wen Pinghan: “…”

As they chatted, Wen Pinghan noticed the roller coaster wasn’t moving. She looked up curiously and saw staff talking into walkie-talkies. Moments later, one shouted, “Sorry, there’s a malfunction. Please get off quickly; we need to inspect it.”

Everyone hurried off. Wu Qianqian was amazed. “That was close. What are the odds we’d run into this?”

Wen Pinghan hadn’t expected it either.

The three left the roller coaster area. Wu Qianqian wanted to try the drop tower next. But as they took their seats, a staff member announced, “Sorry, the drop tower seems to have a malfunction. We’re sending someone to fix it. Please exit in an orderly manner.”

Wen Pinghan: “?”

Wu Qianqian: “Are we cursed? Everything we try breaks down. Is there anything here that actually works?!”

Xie Zhifei froze, her expression subtle, and tapped the system: [Did you do this?]

[Yeah, fear and nerves are your emotions. I can’t control your mind, so I tackled the source of your fear. Pretty awesome, right?] the system bragged.

Feeling guilty, Xie Zhifei stopped the system’s meddling and gave up on thrill rides. She suggested the pirate ship instead. “You guys go ahead. I… I’m not feeling it. I’ll wait down here.”

“Your dictionary really doesn’t have ‘scared,’ huh?” Wen Pinghan teased, relieved she wasn’t pushing herself. She took Wu Qianqian to the pirate ship, which, thankfully, worked fine.

Xie Zhifei waited below until they returned. Wu Qianqian was buzzing with excitement, rambling about the thrilling experience, while Wen Pinghan listened calmly.

“How was it? Fun?” Xie Zhifei asked.

“So fun!” Wu Qianqian said, charging toward the next ride. “Let’s do the coaster next!”

As Xie Zhifei followed, someone grabbed her arm tightly. She looked over to see Wen Pinghan, pale and unsteady, her eyes unfocused. Xie Zhifei quickly took her hand. “Dizzy?”

Wen Pinghan nodded slowly.

“Let’s rest for a bit.” Xie Zhifei called to Wu Qianqian, “Qianqian, let’s grab some drinks first.”

“Cool.”

Xie Zhifei ordered three drinks. Seeing Wu Qianqian looking around eagerly, she said, “Go have fun. We’ll wait here.”

“What about Pinghan?” Wu Qianqian asked.

“I’ll rest too. You go ahead,” Wen Pinghan said.

“Alright, the coaster’s quick. I’ll be right back!” Wu Qianqian rushed off.

Left alone, the two exchanged a glance and laughed.

Wen Pinghan sipped her drink through a straw. “I underestimated the pirate ship. It was a bit scary.”

“You’ve never tried it before?”

“Nope, never had the chance.”

Xie Zhifei took a big gulp of her drink, looked around, and pointed to a carousel nearby. “Let’s try that.”

“You sure?” Wen Pinghan didn’t get the appeal of fake horses spinning in circles.

“Totally, come on.” Xie Zhifei pulled her toward the carousel.

As the carousel started, Wen Pinghan saw Xie Zhifei pull out her phone for a selfie and realized where the fun was.

“Sister, is it fun?” Xie Zhifei called out.

Wen Pinghan noticed she was recording a video, so she forced a stiff smile and said, “Yeah, fun.”

“Great, thanks for taking time out of your busy schedule to humor me,” Xie Zhifei said, laughing as she stopped recording.

Wen Pinghan: “…”

The carousel stopped after a few spins. Wen Pinghan still didn’t see the appeal, but watching the happy couples nearby, she figured maybe she just didn’t get it. Some people must love this spinning stuff—there’s even a song lyric about the magic of love going round and round.

“Sister!” Xie Zhifei came over, naturally taking her hand. “Wanna go again?”

“Nope.”

“Really?”

“You like it?”

“Kinda.”

“…” Wen Pinghan gave her a slightly judgmental look.

But Xie Zhifei got her way and rode the carousel again, recording another video. “Sister, is it fun?”

“So fun.”

“Great, thanks for humoring me again.”

Back at the drink shop, Wu Qianqian was already waiting. Seeing them holding hands, she was surprised. She hadn’t expected them to get this close.

Wen Pinghan wasn’t usually this warm. Back in the day, when they’d link arms to go shopping, she’d walk alone. Even when they tried to hold her cool arms, she’d pull away, saying she wasn’t used to it.

What changed? A few years in the workforce turned her into a warm, clingy person?

“I need the bathroom. You guys going?” Wu Qianqian asked.

“I’ll go,” Wen Pinghan said, standing.

“Let’s go together.” Wu Qianqian took a few steps and grabbed her hand.

Wen Pinghan paused, looking at her. “What’s this?”

“Holding hands to the bathroom,” Wu Qianqian said.

“…” Wen Pinghan pulled her hand free. “How old are we?”

“?” ‘Weren’t you just holding hands with Ms. Xie?’

“But you and Ms. Xie were holding hands. What, am I less important to you?” Wu Qianqian complained.

“She’s different.”

“How? Because she’s prettier or richer?”

“No, she’s more shameless,” Wen Pinghan said. “I tried pulling away a few times, but she’d grab my hand again. I asked how old she was, and she said she’s just eighteen and needs her big sister to hold her hand.”

“I can’t compete with that!” Wu Qianqian said, shocked.

After an afternoon at the amusement park, as the sun set and colorful lights lit up the park, Wu Qianqian exclaimed, “Last stop, the Ferris wheel!”

The Ferris wheel line was long—everyone wanted to reach the top at sunset to make a wish, adding a touch of romance to their ordinary lives.

Luckily, their VIP status skipped the queue. But just as they were about to board, Wu Qianqian got a call from her department head. With the cabin ready, she waved them off. “You guys go first. I’ll join after the call.”

So, the two entered the cabin, feeling no particular excitement. Xie Zhifei thought the night view was average—her office had a better one. Wen Pinghan found the marketed “romance” meaningless. If not for her friend, she’d never spend money on this, just like the carousel.

Unlike the lively tourists, their cabin was oddly quiet. As Wen Pinghan was about to ask why Xie Zhifei hadn’t taken out her phone for selfies or videos, Xie Zhifei pulled a contract from her bag and handed it over.

“Take this home and read it carefully.”

Wen Pinghan looked at the contract, titled ‘Talent Plan’.

“What’s this?”

“Qisheng is a big, established company, but young people have too few opportunities to compete. They wait for seniors to leave to get a chance. It’s stable but loses creative, energetic young employees who want to shine in smaller companies,” Xie Zhifei said slowly. “So, I’m proposing this talent plan to the board. It sets up an incentive program, selecting young talents annually for advanced training. Those who pass can return to mid- or high-level positions. Even if they don’t pass, they can stay in their current roles or be more competitive elsewhere.”

Wen Pinghan flipped through the contract, a detailed plan. “This is your sincerity?”

“Yes,” Xie Zhifei nodded. “I won’t deny Gu’s Group offers better immediate benefits. But I can give you a stable path, transparent promotions, and further education. Your future is yours to create, not tied to anyone.”

Wen Pinghan gripped the contract, asking, “Am I worth all this effort to keep?”

“Absolutely. Not just you, but many capable people without connections are worth keeping. I want Qisheng to be vibrant, not complacent with its size. I need driven people like you who don’t settle. That’s my sincerity,” Xie Zhifei said earnestly.

The city sprawled below, its twinkling lights like a net. Through the dim night, Wen Pinghan gazed into her eyes and smiled faintly. “With those words, I’m reassured.”

If Xie Zhifei had said it was just for her, she’d suspect it was only to keep her from Gu Zhizhang.

But Xie Zhifei said it was for Qisheng, to retain talent like her. Talent…

At the Ferris wheel’s peak, it paused briefly for passengers to enjoy the view and make wishes.

“Qisheng will grow stronger under your leadership,” Wen Pinghan said confidently.

“Will you stay and work with me to witness Qisheng’s rise?” Xie Zhifei asked, holding her hand.

Looking into her eyes, filled with a dazzling world, Wen Pinghan smiled softly. “I will.”

“Awesome!” Xie Zhifei hugged her excitedly. “Stay with Qisheng!”

Wen Pinghan wasn’t used to such closeness but let it slide, given her high spirits. Maybe the afternoon of hand-holding had made her less reserved.

She smiled. “Actually… I already turned down Gu’s Group when their HR called.”

Xie Zhifei froze, releasing her in disbelief. “For real?!”

Wen Pinghan nodded. “Yeah.”

“Why didn’t you tell me earlier?”

“Wanted to see your sincerity,” Wen Pinghan said with a laugh, curious about what she’d do. She’d been looking forward to it.

“So, are you satisfied with my performance?” Xie Zhifei asked, grinning.

“Not bad.”

They laughed and stepped out of the cabin, waiting for Wu Qianqian, who soon joined them.

“Wow, the night view was gorgeous! Did you guys make wishes?” Wu Qianqian asked excitedly.

“Yeah,” Xie Zhifei said.

“What for?”

“For Qisheng to grow strong.”

“Bold!” Wu Qianqian turned to Wen Pinghan. “You?”

“For Qisheng to grow strong.”

“???” ‘What’s wrong with you two?’

“We got unlucky, though. If we’d brought dates, maybe that ‘forever and ever’ thing would’ve come true,” Wu Qianqian sighed.

“What’s that?” Wen Pinghan asked.

“You haven’t heard? If a couple rides the Ferris wheel and kisses at the top, they’ll be together forever.”

“Never heard of it. Just marketing,” Wen Pinghan said dismissively.

Xie Zhifei asked, “What if sisters ride together? Will they last forever?”

“Probably. As long as sisters are united, they’ll last forever!” Wu Qianqian said.

“Good, hehe,” Xie Zhifei said, happily taking Wen Pinghan’s hand. “We’re gonna last forever!”

The more she knew Wen Pinghan, the more she liked her, drawn to her charisma. Initially, it was about the mission, feeling pity for the protagonist. Now, living in this world, she genuinely wanted Wen Pinghan’s choices to come from her heart, not plot pressure.

If Wen Pinghan had chosen Gu’s Group, she’d have let her go to the workplace she preferred.

Seeing them holding hands again, Wu Qianqian felt a strange loneliness—like she was the third wheel in a movie meant for three.

With that thought, she grabbed Wen Pinghan’s other hand.

Wen Pinghan: “…”

Caught in the middle, Wen Pinghan couldn’t push either away and let them drag her along, strutting through the park.

Back home, Wu Qianqian said she had to leave the next day. The department head’s call was to summon her for last-minute training.

“I was worried you’d be lonely in the big city, but seeing how close you are with your boss, not to mention your colleagues, I’m not anymore,” Wu Qianqian said, smiling. “I’m almost afraid I’ll lose my bestie spot.”

“No way. You’ll always be my best friend,” Wen Pinghan said with a smile.

“Good. Even if we’re not in the same place, we’ll keep in touch.”

“I will. And don’t forget me when you’re off the market.”

“No way!” Wu Qianqian promised. “No matter who falls in love, we won’t ditch our friends for a fling!”

“Deal.”

The next morning, Wen Pinghan drove her to the airport. After saying goodbye, she rushed back to the company. Luckily, their market manager didn’t care about clocking in, as they often had fieldwork. That afternoon, she was off to meet a client out of town.

She was gone for a few days and returned on Saturday. Early that morning, she got a call from an unknown number. It was Gu Zhizhang, asking her to dinner to discuss a job offer.

“I already gave your HR a clear answer,” Wen Pinghan said.

“I know, so I’m asking for one more chance to talk one-on-one,” Gu Zhizhang insisted.

“Sorry, I’m on a business trip.”

“I know. You’re back today.”

“…” No wonder he waited until now to call, knowing she was away.

If she didn’t agree to dinner, he’d probably keep pestering her. So, she agreed, planning to reject him in person.

After hanging up, she called Xie Zhifei. “Did you tell Gu Zhizhang I was on a trip?”

“Huh?” Xie Zhifei was confused. “No, why?”

Wen Pinghan explained the call. Xie Zhifei fumed, “He knows plenty of our company’s higher-ups. It’s easy for him to track you down. Can’t believe he’s still so persistent! You’re not gonna agree to join him, right?”

“I agreed to dinner to talk, but I’ll turn him down.”

Relieved, Xie Zhifei said, “Good. I’ll be waiting for you.”

Neither expected Gu Zhizhang to call Xie Zhifei to join them just before the dinner.

At the table, Wen Pinghan and Xie Zhifei exchanged glances, puzzled—whatever happened to a one-on-one talk?

Gu Zhizhang had invited Xie Zhifei to gain an advantage. She usually followed his lead, so asking for one employee should be easy. Once Wen Pinghan saw her boss agree, she’d lean his way.

“Brother Gu, what’s up?” Xie Zhifei asked.

Gu Zhizhang gave her a gentle smile. “I have a favor to ask.”

“What?”

“I really admire Ms. Wen and want to poach her for Gu’s Group with a high salary. Are you willing to let her go?”

“Nope,” Xie Zhifei said.

Gu Zhizhang was stunned. “Why not?”

“I just joined the company and need help with a lot. If I let Sister Wen go, how’ll I explain that to my dad? Right?” Xie Zhifei asked innocently.

Gu Zhizhang hadn’t expected a rejection from her and took a moment to recover. “If Ms. Wen wants to leave, would you object?”

“No.”

“Good.” Gu Zhizhang smiled again and turned to Wen Pinghan. “Are you really unwilling to join Gu’s Group? We offer great pay, solid promotion paths, and you know the profit margins in this industry.”

“I know,” Wen Pinghan nodded. “But I’m happy at Qisheng.”

Another rejection. Gu Zhizhang felt frustrated but prepared his trump card—a charm offensive. No one could resist his CEO charm.

He called the waiter to serve a lavish spread, many dishes tailored to Wen Pinghan’s tastes, thanks to his discreet research. He even ordered two ice creams for dessert.

The meal was pleasant enough. Wen Pinghan started on her ice cream, and Xie Zhifei took the other.

As Gu Zhizhang touted his company’s benefits, Xie Zhifei suddenly said, “Sister, what flavor’s yours?”

“Strawberry.”

“Mine’s green tea, but yours seems sweeter. Can I try?” Xie Zhifei asked.

“I’ve already eaten some.”

“I don’t mind.” Xie Zhifei leaned over and took a bite of her ice cream. “Mmm, so sweet.”

Gu Zhizhang: “…”

As they ate their ice creams, Xie Zhifei nudged him. “Brother Gu, anything else to say?”

He launched into a detailed pitch, from national policies and industry prospects to personal career plans, delivered with sharp logic and wit, like a lecture. Even Xie Zhifei listened intently, nodding in agreement.

Seeing their nods, Gu Zhizhang smiled. “What do you think?”

“I’m so jealous of how well you speak, Brother. I’m too dumb, only good for sincerity,” Xie Zhifei said, feigning sadness with a sigh.

“No worries, sincerity’s enough,” Wen Pinghan said, comforting her. “Don’t worry, I’m staying with Qisheng.”

Gu Zhizhang: “…”

‘What? Sincerity’s enough?!’