The Secretary - Chapter 1

As the workday approached its end, Zhu Jie from the neighboring department called Wei Wan to inform her of an urgent meeting.

Wei Wan reviewed the report assigned by her director one last time before tidying up her desk and heading upstairs.

Zhu Jie was a striking figure in her late thirties, having worked for over a decade in the office. She remained a vibrant presence among the ranks, often admired for her demeanor despite her busy schedule.

“When Xiao Wan comes,” Zhu Jie said as she adjusted her make-up in front of the mirror, seemingly oblivious to the implication in her tone.

Wei Wan chuckled warmly: “Zhu Jie, this seems to be someone new. You’re not there yet; how did you decide on him?”

Zhu Jie pinched Wei Wan’s face playfully before taking a bite from her manicured nails, revealing a picture of a man with clean-shaven features in blue ID card format: “I wasn’t there when this guy came to the office. I saw his photo online and thought he might be suitable for you.”

Wei Wan returned the favor with a playful jab at Zhu Jie: “Don’t think so too much, Zhu Jie. I’m here to help you find someone, not to meddle in your personal life.”

Zhu Jie chuckled heartily before dismissing her: “Alright, we’re done here. No more questions about this. Let’s focus on work.”

As they made their way down the elevator shaft, Zhu Jie glanced at the car ahead of them and signaled for a front seat.

“Xiao Wan,” she said softly as they descended, “I still have some unfinished business. I’ll head back to the office after this.”

Wei Wan nodded without further comment while continuing to unpack her things.

Zhu Jie paused midway through her task when she noticed a knock at their door and a voice calling out: “Xiao Wan, come in.”

She glanced over her shoulder quickly before opening the door. It was an unexpected visitor.

A man in his early thirties stood before them, holding a stack of documents with a determined expression. His eyes were sharp, his posture impeccable—someone who could command attention simply by walking into a room.

He addressed Zhu Jie first, his tone casual yet firm: “I heard about you from someone close to your family. From what I understand, things are going well at work.”

Zhu Jie’s expression shifted instantly upon hearing this news: her usually composed demeanor turned tenuous as she looked directly into his face.

“How long have you been here?” she asked roughly, trying to hide her surprise.

The man hesitated for a beat before answering with a calm, measured tone: “Just six months. You’ve obviously known me for some time now.”

Zhu Jie’s lips formed a thin line as she looked away quickly, covering any expression of surprise or shock that might have been evident in her eyes.

“How did you end up here?” she asked aloud, trying not to let the question reflect in her voice.

The man stood tall, his presence commanding. He seemed to read her mind, knowing exactly what she was about to say before he spoke: “I followed my instincts. I wanted to make sure things were going well for you.”

Zhu Jie’s smile faltered as she looked back at him. There was something in her eyes—a mixture of wonder and apprehension—that suggested she had made the right decision.

“How do you know so much about me?” she asked, her voice tinged with a hint of curiosity.

The man hesitated again before answering: “I’ve worked here for years. I’ve seen things.”

Zhu Jie’s breath caught in her throat as she looked down at her feet for a beat before standing abruptly and leaving the room without looking back.

As if sensing her departure, the man turned to face her with a serious expression. He reached out and tugged gently at her coatlap: “Don’t worry,” he said softly. “I’m here for you.”

Zhu Jie didn’t say anything but nodded in agreement as she headed toward her office.