Long Fantasy Romance Novel

〈The Reissued Youth〉16

71. The Red Thread Drawn Inside the General Managers Office

The general managers office of Facus Fashion Company was located on one of the upper floors of the building. Beyond the expansive floor-to-ceiling windows stretched the bustling cityscape of Taipeis Eastern District. Sunlight streamed through the glass, illuminating an office that was both minimalist and elegant. Several pieces of international fashion design artwork hung on the walls, reflecting the companys refined taste and ambitious vision.

Shi Meilin carried a thick folder in her arms. After gently knocking on the office door, she pushed it open and stepped inside.

"General Manager."

She stood by the doorway, composed and professional. Sitting behind her desk, Su Mingyu looked up. Upon seeing Shi Meilin, she smiled faintly and gestured for her to come in.

Walking over to the desk, Shi Meilin handed her the folder.

"These are the latest fashion design drafts for this season. Please have a look, General Manager."

Su Mingyu accepted the folder and flipped through the first two pages. Her eyes swiftly scanned the sketches, and a satisfied expression appeared on her face.

"Just leave it on the desk for now. Ill find time to go through it carefully."

She set the folder beside the desk. Then, as though suddenly remembering something, she looked back at Shi Meilin.

"Oh, by the way. Two days from now, Ill be having a dinner gathering with the owners of several of our partner companies. Id like you and Connie to accompany me."

Shi Meilin paused slightly.

"Connie and me?"

"Thats right."

Leaning back in her chair with her fingers interlaced, Su Mingyu wore a meaningful smile.

"Besides discussing business cooperation, Id also like to introduce you to a remarkable young man."

Hearing those words, Shi Meilin sensed that things were probably not as simple as they sounded.

Sure enough, Su Mingyu continued,

"His name is Lin Wenbin. Hes the general manager of Beauty Cosmetics Company and holds an MBA earned in the United Kingdom. His company is interested in signing an agreement with us to establish a cross-industry strategic alliance. Whether in terms of business philosophy or personal qualities, I think the two of you would make an excellent match."

Shi Meilin looked at Su Mingyu and could not help smiling.

She raised an eyebrow slightly and said in a half-joking tone,

"General Manager, I never expected that besides running the company, youve also taken on a part-time job as a matchmaker."

Su Mingyu laughed at her remark. Picking up the coffee cup on her desk, she took a small sip.

"Im not in the habit of playing matchmaker for just anyone."

She set down the cup, her expression turning serious.

"Wenbin is one of those rare young talents in the business world. Hes young, capable, and remarkably modest. Hes never been involved in any negative publicity, and his conduct has always been steady and respectable. Considering his character, family background, and career achievements, I truly believe hes a perfect match for you."

Shi Meilin listened quietly.

She already understood Su Mingyus intentions.

She knew the general manager valued her greatly and sincerely cared about her future happiness. Yet love was never something that could be measured by qualifications or family background.

Lowering her gaze slightly, she reflected for a moment before looking up again.

Her voice remained calm but unwavering.

"General Manager... actually, I already have a boyfriend, and our relationship is quite serious."

Su Mingyu paused for a moment, though she did not seem surprised.

Looking at Shi Meilin, the smile remained on her face.

"Is that so?"

After a brief silence, she still chose not to give up.

"Even so, theres no harm in getting to know more outstanding people. Life is long, and there will always be many choices ahead. A young entrepreneur like Wenbin is someone worth knowing. It may prove beneficial for you."

She picked up the documents on her desk, signaling that the conversation had come to an end.

"All right. Youd better get back to work."

"Yes, General Manager."

Shi Meilin nodded and turned toward the door.

The moment her hand grasped the doorknob, she paused for a single second.

She knew Su Mingyu meant well.

But deep inside, she had already made her choice.

Love was not an exchange of qualifications, nor was it a résumé that could be compared to determine who was better.

She let out a soft sigh and opened the door.

After leaving the general managers office, Shi Meilin carried the folder back to her own workspace.

The sunlight outside the window remained as bright as ever.

Yet within her heart, another familiar figure quietly emerged.

That person—the one bound to her by an invisible red thread of fate—was the one she could never truly let go of.

Chapter 72. Unspoken Feelings in the Sea Breeze

That afternoon at Baishawan, the sky was a flawless blue, and waves of white surf rolled in one after another, washing against the shore. In front of the Visitor Information Center, the crowd was sparse. A few tourists held cameras in their hands, enjoying the vast seascape as the sea breeze blew across the bay.

After parking his car, Cai Shinan walked toward the entrance of the Visitor Information Center.

From a distance, he spotted Zhang Yahui standing there.

She was dressed in simple, refreshing casual clothes, carrying an elegant handbag. The moment she saw Shinan approaching, a gentle smile appeared on her face.

"Youre here."

"Have you been waiting long?" Cai Shinan asked with a smile.

Zhang Yahui shook her head and handed him the bag she was carrying.

"This is for you."

Cai Shinan froze for a moment before accepting the bag, his eyes filled with curiosity.

"For me? Is it... one of your artworks?"

Zhang Yahui nodded, looking slightly shy.

"Yes. Ever since you helped repair the schools computers last time, Ive been wanting to find a chance to thank you. Its only a small token of my appreciation."

Cai Shinan carefully opened the bag.

As the oil painting slowly came into view, he stood completely stunned.

The man in the painting was himself.

It was a half-length portrait. The man wore a bright, natural smile, and his eyes shone with an honest yet unwavering light.

Every brushstroke revealed how closely the artist had observed him and how deeply she understood him.

Cai Shinan could not help laughing.

"This... is me?"

Watching his reaction, Zhang Yahuis lips curved into a faint smile.

"Yes."

She said softly,

"I spent most of the night studying your features."

Cai Shinan looked at the painting, then at Yahui standing before him.

Suddenly, he pointed a finger at her and deliberately imitated the exaggerated tone of a television commercial.

"Haha! You really got me!"

Zhang Yahui blinked in surprise before bursting into laughter.

"What are you doing? Were not filming a commercial."

Cai Shinan laughed as well.

Carefully examining the portrait again, he suddenly asked with genuine curiosity,

"But... you didnt even have a photograph of me. How could you paint me so accurately?"

Smiling, Zhang Yahui gently pointed to her forehead.

"The photograph is stored right here."

Cai Shinan looked at her with admiration in his eyes.

"A true professional is on an entirely different level."

Zhang Yahui said nothing.

She simply lowered her head and smiled.

She knew that what she had truly remembered was not merely Cai Shinans appearance, but the way he had stood before the computers that day, completely absorbed in his work, along with his sincere nature and his willingness to help others without expecting anything in return.

Cai Shinan carefully wrapped the painting again and gently placed it on the passenger seat of his car.

Closing the door, he turned toward Yahui.

"Shall we take a walk along the beach?"

Looking at him, Zhang Yahui nodded slightly.

"Sure."

The two of them slowly walked along the sandy shore.

The sea breeze gently tousled Yahuis long hair.

She reached up and tucked the loose strands behind her ear, while Cai Shinan gazed toward the distant waves.

Under the afternoon sun, their shadows stretched long across the sand.

After walking for a while, Cai Shinan suddenly spoke.

"The day before yesterday... I went to Sun Moon Lake—to Meilins home."

Zhang Yahuis footsteps slowed for a brief moment.

She looked at him.

A flash of surprise crossed her gentle eyes, mixed with a trace of disappointment she could not completely conceal.

"You and her... have become that close already?"

Hearing the subtle change in her voice, Cai Shinan smiled bitterly.

"Its not what youre thinking."

He gazed out at the sea.

After a long silence, he said,

"It was Meilin who invited me. She said her family wanted to meet me."

Zhang Yahui listened quietly.

After a while, she spoke softly.

"If thats the case... then Meilin must truly be serious about your relationship."

Cai Shinan lowered his head, his expression complicated.

"Actually... Im very confused."

Zhang Yahui turned toward him.

"Confused?"

Her voice remained gentle.

"Would you like to tell me about it?"

Cai Shinan looked at her and hesitated briefly before nodding.

"It happened like this..."

He told her everything—from how he first met Shi Meilin, to pretending to be her boyfriend, and finally to her wish that he move to Taipei with her to pursue a future together.

After finishing, he let out a long sigh.

"Thats everything."

Zhang Yahui sat down on the sand, resting her chin lightly on one hand as she gazed thoughtfully into the distance.

After a moment, she slowly spoke.

"From what youve told me, Meilin really did intend to make use of you at first. She wanted you to temporarily play the role of her boyfriend to solve the immediate problem she was facing."

Turning toward Cai Shinan, she continued,

"But later, she probably realized what an outstanding person you are, and she genuinely fell in love with you. Thats why she began hoping the pretend relationship would become a real one, and even wanted you to move to Taipei with her."

Cai Shinan smiled bitterly.

"But when she asks that of me... I honestly dont know what to do."

"Why?"

Looking down at the sand beneath his feet, Cai Shinan answered slowly.

"I feel that Meilin and I live in completely different worlds."

He paused.

"I dont want to return to office life as a salaried employee."

"Im not lacking food or clothing now. Why must I go back to a life of clocking in every day, working overtime, and constantly being chased by work?"

Zhang Yahui smiled faintly.

"Oh?"

She looked at him.

"Youre still so young, and youre already thinking about withdrawing from the world?"

Cai Shinan scratched his head awkwardly.

"Its not exactly withdrawing from society."

"I just really dont like living every day like a headless fly, rushing around without direction."

"When youre your own boss, you have to bear the risks of profit and loss, but at least your life remains in your own hands."

Zhang Yahui nodded.

"But if you move to Taipei with Shi Meilin, unless the two of you start a business together... youll still have to return to life as an employee."

Cai Shinan fell silent.

"Youre right."

He smiled helplessly.

"Thats exactly whats making me hesitate."

Zhang Yahui gazed steadily at him.

Then she suddenly asked seriously,

"Shinan... look into my eyes."

Cai Shinan turned toward her.

"Answer me honestly."

She took a deep breath.

"Do you care very deeply about Shi Meilin?"

Cai Shinan did not avoid her gaze.

"Yes."

He nodded.

"I care about her very much."

For an instant, sadness dimmed Zhang Yahuis eyes, but she quickly concealed it.

She said softly,

"If you care about her that much, then youll have no choice but to make sacrifices and accommodate what she wants."

Cai Shinan frowned.

"But why must it always be me who compromises?"

His voice carried unmistakable helplessness.

"Doesnt she have to consider what I want at all?"

Zhang Yahui remained silent for a moment before answering.

"Because youre the one who cares about her."

"If you refuse to accommodate her, she can simply find someone else."

Looking out at the waves, she continued calmly,

"Meilin is a very confident—and very strong-willed—woman."

"Shes accustomed to having others adapt to her because she believes that, with everything she has to offer, someone will always be willing to change for her."

Cai Shinan let out a long sigh.

"...Youve truly hit the heart of the matter."

Zhang Yahui looked at him.

"Sighing wont solve the problem between the two of you."

Cai Shinan smiled bitterly.

"Meilin isnt like you."

"Its really difficult to reason with her."

Hearing this, Zhang Yahui forced a faint smile.

"Is that so?"

She lowered her head.

"Thats because you see me as a friend, so you think Im easy to talk to."

After a pause, she looked back at Cai Shinan.

"If we were lovers... perhaps these problems wouldnt exist."

Cai Shinan froze.

Zhang Yahui spoke softly.

"Because I would respect you."

"Wherever you wanted to go, I would go with you."

Cai Shinan scratched his forehead awkwardly and smiled.

"You really are thoughtful and understanding."

Looking at her, he continued,

"Thats exactly why I came to you to talk about whats in my heart."

Looking at the man she loved, Zhang Yahui felt a quiet ache in her heart.

She knew her confession had come too late.

Taking a deep breath, she struggled to remain composed.

"Just now... Ive already put aside a girls reserve and told you how I truly feel."

"I know that your heart—and your eyes—are filled only with Shi Meilin."

She forced a smile.

"I dont want to make a fool of myself, nor do I want to come between the two of you."

The sea breeze drifted past, and her voice became almost a whisper.

"But I hope youll always remember how Ive treated you."

"If one day you need someone to share your thoughts with..."

"I hope that person... will still be me."

Cai Shinan looked at her, deeply moved.

He nodded solemnly.

"Yahui, Ill always remember your kindness toward me."

Neither of them spoke again.

In the distance, the waves continued to wash gently against the shore.

Some loves are not unrequited because love does not exist—

but because the heart of the one you love is already inhabited by someone else.

73. Tears in the Moment of Awakening from a Dream

The night grew deeper, and the campus gradually became quiet.

Inside the faculty dormitory, only a dim yellow desk lamp remained lit.

Outside the window, the surface of the sea shimmered faintly with silver light beneath the reflection of the moon. In the distance, the waves rhythmically struck the shore, as if softly telling a story of a restless heart that could not find peace.

Zhang Yahui sat alone at her desk, her hands gently folded together, staring blankly out the window.

Tonight, she no longer wore the gentle smile she usually showed her students, nor did she have the carefree brightness she displayed when talking with Cai Shinan.

She simply sat there quietly.

Her short hair was lightly brushed by the breeze drifting in from outside the window. Her gaze remained fixed on the dark sea in the distance, as if she were trying to search for an answer within that boundless ocean.

Inside the room, a portable cassette player slowly played the song "When a Dream Awakens" sung by Teresa Teng’s contemporary-era Taiwanese singer Tsai Shu-hua (Chen Shu-hua).

The familiar melody flowed through the silent night.

"Because love is always something difficult to let go of and difficult to separate from, why care about that little bit of tenderness..."

The singing was gentle yet sorrowful, like a soft blade slowly cutting open the emotions that Yahui had hidden deep within her heart.

"You should know that sadness is always unavoidable, at every moment when a dream awakens..."

Zhang Yahui lowered her head, and a bitter smile appeared at the corner of her lips.

She thought of her conversation with Cai Shinan at Baishawan earlier that day.

She thought of the concern and affection in his eyes whenever he spoke of Shi Meilin.

She thought of how she had gathered her courage to confess her feelings, yet could only choose to retreat to the position of a friend.

She loved him.

But she also understood that loving someone did not necessarily mean being able to possess him.

On the desk lay an unfinished sketch.

On the drawing paper were half-length portraits of Cai Shinan and herself.

Their shoulders were close together, and both of them wore happy smiles.

That was only the image she carried in her heart.

In reality, between them, there had always been an invisible distance.

Zhang Yahui reached out her hand.

Her fingertips gently brushed across Cai Shinan’s face in the drawing.

Her eyes were filled with longing and reluctance.

"Shinan..."

She called his name softly, her voice almost too faint to hear.

"Why... did fate let me meet you?"

Outside the window, the waves continued to strike against the shore.

No one answered her.

She inhaled deeply, trying hard to hold back the tears in her eyes.

But in the end, tears refused to obey.

A single tear slid down her cheek and stopped at the corner of her mouth.

She raised her hand to wipe it away, yet her eyes became red again.

"There are some things you do not need to ask about right now..."

The song continued playing.

"There are some people you never need to wait for..."

Zhang Yahui closed her eyes.

She knew that she should not continue waiting.

But matters of love—how could they be so easily controlled by reason?

She once believed that as long as she silently stayed by Shinan’s side, as long as she allowed him to feel her kindness, one day he would see her.

However, only now did she understand that some people, even after standing beside someone for a very long time, still might never be able to enter that person’s heart.

The camera slowly moved closer from her lonely back.

The gentle light of the desk lamp outlined the profile of her short-haired silhouette.

Tears shimmered at the corners of her eyes, yet she struggled to remain calm.

She was a woman who deeply loved someone, but could only choose to fulfill his happiness.

After a long while, she slowly opened her eyes.

She stared at the sketch on the desk and remained silent for a long time.

Finally, as if she had made an important decision, she whispered:

"Tomorrow... I will go to the hospital’s obstetrics and gynecology department for an examination."

After saying this, her hand gently covered her abdomen.

In her eyes were expectation, fear, and a complicated emotion that could not be expressed in words.

Outside the window, the waves continued rushing toward the shore again and again.

And her life was also about to welcome an unpredictable turning point.

74. The Test of a Banquet

The neon lights of Taipei at night intertwined above the city, forming a dazzling sea of brilliant colors.

Inside the luxurious private dining room of a high-end hotel restaurant, the lighting was soft, and the crystal chandelier reflected magnificent rays of light.

The dining table was filled with exquisite dishes. Several business figures chatted and laughed freely, and amid the exchanging of wine cups, the atmosphere was filled with the warmth and enthusiasm of the business world.

Tonight’s dinner gathering was a business networking banquet specially arranged by Su Mingyu.

Besides the owners of several partner companies, there was also Lin Wenbin, the general manager of Beauty Cosmetics Company.

And Shi Meilin had undoubtedly become the most eye-catching focus in the entire private room.

She wore a fashionable suit with a perfectly tailored fit. Every gesture she made revealed the confidence and elegance unique to a design director.

Her beauty and refined temperament quickly attracted the attention of several business owners present.

After several rounds of drinks, the atmosphere gradually became more lively.

Chairman Gu lifted his wine glass, stood up with a broad smile, and said,

"Director Shi, come on, you must drink this glass!"

Shi Meilin looked at the glass of wine filled before her, revealing a slightly troubled expression.

"Chairman Gu, Im sorry. I really dont have much tolerance for alcohol. I probably cant drink too much."

She smiled politely, hoping to decline tactfully.

However, Chairman Liang beside her immediately laughed and added,

"Director Shi, doing business is all about sincerity!"

He raised his wine glass, his tone carrying a half-joking encouragement.

"Finish this glass. Only then can you show your sincerity."

Several other business owners also joined in.

"Thats right! Director Shi, its rare for everyone to gather together today."

"Have a few more drinks. We dont leave until were drunk!"

Looking at everyones expectant expressions, Shi Meilin felt somewhat helpless.

She knew that business social gatherings were sometimes like this.

There were many situations where one could not be too disappointing or ruin the atmosphere.

Just as she was preparing to reluctantly raise her glass, Lin Wenbin, sitting beside her, spoke.

"Everyone, how about this?"

He smiled and stood up, stepping in to help Shi Meilin.

"From now on, for every drink you offer Director Shi, Ill drink it for her."

Chairman Gu froze for a moment, then laughed.

"President Lin, that wont do!"

He patted the table.

"The person were toasting is Director Shi. If you insist on drinking for her, youll be breaking the rules."

Chairman Liang also chimed in.

"Exactly! Director Shi looks like someone with a lot of courage. Surely she can handle a few glasses of wine, cant she?"

At this point, Shi Meilin found it difficult to refuse any further.

She took a deep breath and picked up the wine glass on the table.

"Then Ill drink a little to show my appreciation."

She raised the glass and took a small sip.

However, when the strong liquor entered her mouth, the sharp burning sensation caused her eyebrows to tighten slightly.

She forced herself to endure the discomfort and drank a few more sips.

But the alcohol quickly began to take effect.

Her face became slightly pale.

Her stomach churned violently, and she almost could not stop herself from vomiting.

"Meilin!"

Su Mingyu noticed something was wrong and quickly reached out to support her, gently patting her back.

"Slow down. If you feel uncomfortable, dont force yourself."

She turned toward the business owners present and smiled, helping Shi Meilin smooth over the situation.

"Everyone, Director Shi has already shown great sincerity. She truly has done her best."

Seeing the situation, the business owners could no longer insist.

At this moment, Li Keni, sitting on the other side, immediately stood up and picked up her wine glass.

"Chairman Gu, Chairman Liang, Chairman Ye."

She smiled and said,

"Id like to offer a toast to the three of you. I wish everyone smooth cooperation."

She deliberately shifted everyones attention, allowing the atmosphere to return to business entertainment.

After the banquet ended, outside the hotel entrance.

The night breeze swept through the streets, bringing a touch of coolness.

Shi Meilin was already somewhat drunk, and her steps were unsteady.

Lin Wenbin supported her as she walked out of the hotel, his expression filled with concern.

Su Mingyu and Li Keni followed behind them.

"Slowly."

Lin Wenbin reminded her softly, placing an arm around her waist to steady her body.

Shi Meilin frowned slightly, seemingly trying to remain clear-headed.

"Im fine..."

But her voice was already not as sharp and composed as usual.

Looking at her, Lin Wenbin could not help sighing.

"Actually, they shouldnt have let her drink so much."

He glanced toward the hotel entrance, his tone carrying some dissatisfaction.

"Those major business owners can really go too far sometimes."

Su Mingyu nodded in understanding.

She walked to the roadside and waved her hand.

"Ill call a taxi first."

Soon, a taxi stopped in front of the hotel.

Su Mingyu opened the door and said to Li Keni,

"Keni, take Meilin home."

"Okay."

Li Keni nodded and, together with Lin Wenbin, helped Shi Meilin into the car.

Shi Meilin sat in the back seat, leaned against the seatback, and closed her eyes.

Lin Wenbin stood beside the car door.

Looking at her exhausted appearance, a trace of pity appeared in his eyes.

He gently closed the car door.

"Take care on the way."

The taxi slowly drove away.

Lin Wenbin stood outside the hotel entrance, watching the vehicles taillights disappear into the darkness of the night.

He did not leave immediately.

Looking toward the direction where the taxi had gone, his eyes revealed a growing curiosity and admiration for this beautiful and strong woman.

And this seemingly ordinary business banquet quietly allowed the destinies of two people to begin intersecting.

75. The Choice Between Career and Love

Inside the office of the Design Department Director at Facus Fashion Company, the afternoon sunlight filtered through the blinds, casting soft rays of light and shadow across the floor.

The latest seasonal design drafts were piled on the desk. Several international fashion works hung on the walls, and the entire space was filled with the creative atmosphere unique to designers.

Shi Meilin was lowering her head, reviewing the documents in her hands, when suddenly there was a knock on the office door.

"Come in."

The door opened, and Su Mingyu walked inside.

Shi Meilin raised her head. Seeing that the general manager had personally come to visit, she immediately stood up to welcome her.

"General Manager."

She walked forward and smiled.

"Ill make you a cup of coffee."

Su Mingyu gently waved her hand.

"No need to trouble yourself."

She glanced at the design drafts on the desk and smiled.

"I just wanted to talk with you for a while. I wont take up too much of your time."

Shi Meilin nodded.

The two of them walked to the sofa area beside the office and sat down.

Su Mingyu did not speak immediately. Instead, she first observed Shi Meilins expression carefully.

After a moment, she slowly asked,

"Meilin, what do you think of President Lin from Beauty Company?"

Shi Meilin did not think too much before answering directly.

"Lin Wenbin?"

She smiled slightly.

"He is graceful, well-mannered, and speaks appropriately. He is indeed a talented young entrepreneur."

Su Mingyu looked at her, and a meaningful smile appeared at the corner of her lips.

"I am asking you... how you feel about him."

Shi Meilin froze for a moment.

She quickly understood what Su Mingyu meant, and a trace of helplessness flashed through her eyes.

"General Manager, you..."

Su Mingyu smiled.

"What? Did you figure it out?"

She leaned back against the sofa, her tone becoming gentler.

"Actually, when I heard you say yesterday that you already had a boyfriend, I felt a little regretful for you."

Shi Meilins expression changed slightly.

"General Manager, I am not the kind of woman who easily changes her feelings when she meets someone new."

Her tone was not forceful, but it was extremely firm.

To her, love was not something that could be easily changed simply because she encountered someone with excellent conditions.

Su Mingyu nodded.

"I know."

Looking at this outstanding subordinate whom she valued greatly, she spoke earnestly.

"But you also saw what happened last night."

"Those major business owners took turns offering you drinks. Wenbin kept helping you block the alcohol, and he kept protecting you."

She paused for a moment.

"I can tell that the way he treats you is different from the way he treats ordinary people."

Shi Meilin remained silent for a moment.

"General Manager..."

Su Mingyu reached out and gently patted the back of her hand.

"Meilin, in the business world, Wenbin is not merely a talented young entrepreneur."

"What is even more rare is that he has a very disciplined private life. He has never had any negative news, and the outside world has always given him very positive evaluations."

Looking at Shi Meilin, she spoke seriously.

"A man like him is someone one may encounter only by chance, but not easily find."

"If you are willing to give him an opportunity, he may not only become your partner in love, but also become a strong supporter of your career."

Shi Meilin lowered her head and thought for a moment.

She knew Su Mingyu was thinking for her own good.

However, she had her own principles.

"General Manager."

She raised her head.

"In the workplace, I believe it is not appropriate to mix personal feelings with professional matters."

Su Mingyu looked at her and did not argue.

She simply smiled faintly.

"I understand."

"However, as a woman myself, I only hope that in the future you can find someone who is truly worthy of you."

She stood up and adjusted her clothes.

"Just consider this my suggestion. Think about it carefully."

"Thank you for your concern, General Manager."

Shi Meilin also stood up.

She walked Su Mingyu all the way to the door and watched her leave the office.

After closing the door, Shi Meilin returned to her seat.

The moment she had just sat down, the telephone on her desk rang.

"Hello, this is Shi Meilin."

A familiar male voice came from the other end of the phone.

"Director Shi, this is Lin Wenbin."

Shi Meilin was slightly startled.

"President Lin?"

Her tone remained gentle.

"If this is about business, please come directly to the company."

Lin Wenbin was silent for a moment before saying,

"I would like to talk with you about your future career plans."

Shi Meilin frowned slightly.

"My career plans?"

At that moment, Li Keni entered the office carrying a folder.

She stood beside the desk, waiting for Shi Meilin to finish the call.

"Dont you want to move yourself to an even higher level?"

The voice from the other end of the phone carried strong confidence.

Shi Meilin held the receiver and thought for a while.

She knew that Lin Wenbin was not someone who would casually invite people to meet without a reason.

"Well... all right."

"Lets find a café and meet. We can discuss the details."

Lin Wenbin replied,

"Okay. Ill arrange the time."

After hanging up the phone, Shi Meilin picked up the planner on her desk and wrote down the agreed time and location.

Li Keni handed over the documents.

"Director, these are the materials I just organized."

Shi Meilin answered,

"Put them on the desk first. Ill review them carefully later."

However, Li Keni did not leave immediately.

She looked at Shi Meilin, then glanced at the appointment written on the calendar, revealing a curious expression.

"Director... was that Lin Wenbin who just called you?"

Shi Meilin looked up at her.

"Yes."

She answered calmly.

"I want to know exactly what he is planning."

Li Keni could not help laughing.

"Director, you should seize this opportunity!"

Shi Meilin raised an eyebrow.

"Why?"

Li Keni moved closer and lowered her voice.

"I heard that President Lin never privately asks anyone out for a meeting."

"Some female models took the initiative to invite him out, but they were all rejected."

Shi Meilin looked surprised.

"Who did you hear that from?"

Li Keni blinked.

"Those female models!"

She smiled and said,

"So, Director, a man like President Lin is practically an endangered protected species nowadays."

Shi Meilin could not help laughing.

"Is it really that exaggerated?"

"Really!"

Li Keni nodded seriously.

"Director, you are not married yet. If there is a better choice, perhaps you should reconsider."

Shi Meilin looked at her.

The smile on her face slowly faded.

"Keni."

Her voice was calm.

"It seems you really dont understand me."

Li Keni froze for a moment.

Shi Meilin lowered her head and organized the documents on the desk.

"All right. Lets not talk about this anymore. Go take care of your work first."

Li Keni sensed her attitude and understood that continuing would serve no purpose.

She picked up the empty folder and gave an embarrassed but knowing smile.

"Okay, then Ill head out first."

The office door gently closed.

Shi Meilin sat in her chair, looking at the appointment written on the calendar.

The time arranged for her meeting with Lin Wenbin was written there.

Her gaze remained fixed on it for a long time.

She did not know whether this meeting was merely a discussion about career development,

or a test arranged by destiny.