CH 6

This novel was posted on cntranslationss [dot] blogsp0t [dot] com, by anasiana. If you're not reading it there, you get what you get ￣へ￣)

How is this possible?

"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 then hurriedly asked, "Didn't you say Shan Haiming is your boss?"

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."

"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 son's. 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."

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?"

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."

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.

"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?"

"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."

"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 he couldn't wrap his head around, and neither had he experienced it.

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 was 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.

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?"

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 really awkward for you, right? Because even I was left surprised."

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?"

Upon hearing him say this, Xiao Ning again refused the man's kind act, replying, "Wang-ge, please just stay at home with sister-in-law and my niece. I'll just go there by myself."

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 really awkward for you, right? Because even I was left surprised."

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."

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, and so he asked, "Director Shan, did Wang-ge already explain my situation to you?"

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.

How is this possible?

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 being one of the rare decent jobs to find.

Having heard his explanation, Xiao Ning did not say a word.

"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?"

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 man I am? Even if I had pretended to be his partner, do you think anybody would believe it?"

"Nope, not really." Shan Haiming's response was honest. "Anyhow, it was just a sentence. If you want to help me out, I'll definitely 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."

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 was 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: "..."

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 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?"

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."

Caught off guard, Xiao Ning blinked, asking, "What?"

This act of his left Xiao Ning taken aback.

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 being one of the rare decent jobs to find.

Only a few minutes then passed, before Shan Haiming entered.

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.

"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?"

"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."

"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."

"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 friend? He might even come looking for you to help him out again with something else next time, you know?"

So now the two of them, sat at their table in total silence.

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."

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."

"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."

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."

N/A

"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 friend? He might even come looking for you to help him out again with something else next time, you know?"

"Wang-ge." Xiao Ning almost wanted to snatch the phone from his hands. "Can you let me think it over for a minute..."

Wang Hua stared at him, seeing his appearance, feeling unable to just let hm be, and so went on to say, "I'll be going with you tonight too, okay?"

"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."

Having heard his explanation, Xiao Ning did not say a word.

"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?"

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 being one of the rare decent jobs to find.

"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 friend? He might even come looking for you to help him out again with something else next time, you know?"

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."

"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 found it difficult to tell him he had already come looking, so in the end he did not respond.

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."

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."

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 still remained. But when he raised his head to look, he saw that Shan Haiming's order was almost gone, making his earlier words true.

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, 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 while eating it 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, San 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?"

"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 friend? He might even come looking for you to help him out again with something else next time, you know?"

Upon hearing him say this, Xiao Ning again refused the man's kind act, replying, "Wang-ge, please just stay at home with sister-in-law and my niece. I'll just go there by myself."

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, and so he asked, "Director Shan, did Wang-ge already explain my situation to you?"

"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?"

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.

Caught off guard, Xiao Ning blinked, asking, "What?"

Hesitating for a while, he then said directly, "So what preparations do we need to make?"

After leaving the hospital, Xiao Ning returned to his place to change into some slightly more formal attire. At noon on the dot, he then 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-ge." Xiao Ning almost wanted to snatch the phone from his hands. "Can you let me think it over for a minute..."

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 to appetising, it made Xiao Ning unable 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.

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: "..."

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."

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..."

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."

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?"

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?"

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 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..."

"Alright then. Please wait a while." They had ordered a lot of dishes, so after writing it down, their waiter left politely.

"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."

By then, reluctance and embarrassment was completely etched on Xiao Ning's face, as he tried to refuse, saying, "Really, there's no need for..."

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.

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."

It was really delicious.

It has been said, 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.

"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: "..."

Xiao Ning now understood it all clearly, so with a touch of incredulity, he proceeded to ask, "Is my agreement a condition?"

"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?"

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."

"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?"

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 being one of the rare decent jobs to find.

The waiter wrote each one of it down, then asked, "Is that all, Sir?"

What kind of excuse is that?

How is this possible?

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?"

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, and so he asked, "Director Shan, did Wang-ge already explain my situation to 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.

The waiter wrote each one of it down, then asked, "Is that all, Sir?"

How is this possible?

Having heard his explanation, Xiao Ning did not say a word.

"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."

Wang Hua stared at him, seeing his appearance, feeling unable to just let hm be, and so went on to say, "I'll be going with you tonight too, okay?"

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.

Xiao Ning: "..."

In response Xiao Ning let out a sigh before giving Wang Hua a light nod.

Xiao Ning: "..."

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 really awkward for you, right? Because even I was left surprised."

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 man I am? Even if I had pretended to be his partner, do you think anybody would believe it?"

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 sister-in-law and my niece. I'll just go there by myself."

"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?"

How is this possible?

"You can ask him." Saying this, Shan Haiming used his chin to motion towards Xiao Ning.

His reasons for this choice was, first, due to him not wanting to keep Wang Hua back; and, second, about him not wanting Shan Haiming to mention that favour. Anyhow, Xiao Ning really did not want Wang Hua to hear them both discuss that matter.

Xiao Ning now understood it all clearly, so with a touch of incredulity, he proceeded to ask, "Is my agreement a condition?"

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 man I am? Even if I had pretended to be his partner, do you think anybody would believe it?"

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..."

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."

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."

"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 son's. 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."

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.

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 while eating it 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, San 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?"

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 man I am? Even if I had pretended to be his partner, do you think anybody would believe it?"

It was really delicious.

In response Xiao Ning let out a sigh before giving Wang Hua a light nod.

"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, 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.

"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."

"Alright then. Please wait a while." They had ordered a lot of dishes, so after writing it down, their waiter left politely.

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?"

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."

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 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 leaving the hospital, Xiao Ning returned to his place to change into some slightly more formal attire. At noon on the dot, he then 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.

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 resect for the task?

Hesitating for a while, he then said directly, "So what preparations do we need to make?"

"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 friend? He might even come looking for you to help him out again with something else next time, you know?"

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."

Xiao Ning now understood it all clearly, so with a touch of incredulity, he proceeded to ask, "Is my agreement a condition?"

It was really delicious.

Only a few minutes then passed, before Shan Haiming entered.

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 still remained. But when he raised his head to look, he saw that Shan Haiming's order was almost gone, making his earlier words true.

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 then 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.

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."

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?"

"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 son's. 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."

Hesitating for a while, he then said directly, "So what preparations do we need to make?"

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?"

This act of his left Xiao Ning taken aback.

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 being one of the rare decent jobs to find.

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 to appetising, it made Xiao Ning unable 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.

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."

A Fated Meeting

"Nope, not really." Shan Haiming's response was honest. "Anyhow, it was just a sentence. If you want to help me out, I'll definitely 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."

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 to appetising, it made Xiao Ning unable 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 being new. But he still took it and put it aside, then said, "Thank you."

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."

Xiao Ning then hurriedly asked, "Didn't you say Shan Haiming is your boss?"

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."

However, seeing Shan Haiming act like this, Xiao Ning actually 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: "..."

"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."

Not shot showing much interest, Shan Haiming just said, "Just get one for him."

The waiter wrote each one of it down, then asked, "Is that all, Sir?"

Wang Hua stared at him, seeing his appearance, feeling unable to just let hm be, and so went on to say, "I'll be going with you tonight too, okay?"

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.

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.

"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."

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 really awkward for you, right? Because even I was left surprised."

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."

Xiao Ning did not understand this. For him, life was simple, and topics of gossip never interested him. It was something he he couldn't wrap his head around, and neither had he experienced it.

"You can ask him." Saying this, Shan Haiming used his chin to motion towards Xiao Ning.

"Alright then. Please wait a while." They had ordered a lot of dishes, so after writing it down, their waiter left politely.

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."

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 to appetising, it made Xiao Ning unable 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.

"Let's add a desert." Shan Haiming then told the waiter, "Recommend one."

"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."

"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 son's. 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."

Xiao Ning did not understand this. For him, life was simple, and topics of gossip never interested him. It was something he he couldn't wrap his head around, and neither had he experienced it.

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."

The waiter wrote each one of it down, then asked, "Is that all, Sir?"

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 eat 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.

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 eat 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.

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."

However, seeing Shan Haiming act like this, Xiao Ning actually 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: "..."

N/A

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 was 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.

It was really delicious.

Xiao Ning: "..."

Having heard his explanation, Xiao Ning did not say a word.

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."

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 man I am? Even if I had pretended to be his partner, do you think anybody would believe it?"

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."

"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 son's. 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."

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."

Hesitating for a while, he then said directly, "So what preparations do we need to make?"

Xiao Ning: "..."

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."

What kind of excuse is that?

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?"

His reasons for this choice was, first, due to him not wanting to keep Wang Hua back; and, second, about him not wanting Shan Haiming to mention that favour. Anyhow, Xiao Ning really did not want Wang Hua to hear them both discuss that matter.

How is this possible?

"Let's add a desert." Shan Haiming then told the waiter, "Recommend one."

Upon hearing him say this, Xiao Ning again refused the man's kind act, replying, "Wang-ge, please just stay at home with 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."

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."

Xiao Ning then hurriedly asked, "Didn't you say Shan Haiming is your boss?"

It was really delicious.

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.

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, and so he asked, "Director Shan, did Wang-ge already explain my situation to you?"

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.

It was really delicious.

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?"

"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?"

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."

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 a compensation all because of something he did not do, he was truly unwilling.

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.

The waiter wrote each one of it down, then asked, "Is that all, Sir?"

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.

"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."

Not shot showing much interest, Shan Haiming just said, "Just get one for 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."

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.

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 being one of the rare decent jobs to find.

By then, reluctance and embarrassment was 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?

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 to appetising, it made Xiao Ning unable 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.

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?"

This act of his left Xiao Ning taken aback.

Having heard his explanation, Xiao Ning did not say a word.

Xiao Ning now understood it all clearly, so with a touch of incredulity, he proceeded to ask, "Is my agreement a condition?"

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."

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 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?"

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 man I am? Even if I had pretended to be his partner, do you think anybody would believe it?"

"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 son's. 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."

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."

"Alright then. Please wait a while." They had ordered a lot of dishes, so after writing it down, their waiter left politely.

So now the two of them, sat at their table in total silence.

So now the two of them, sat at their table in total silence.

His reasons for this choice was, first, due to him not wanting to keep Wang Hua back; and, second, about him 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, and so he asked, "Director Shan, did Wang-ge already explain my situation to 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?"

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 to appetising, it made Xiao Ning unable 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.

So now the two of them, sat at their table in total silence.

N/A

A Fated Meeting

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."

"Nope, not really." Shan Haiming's response was honest. "Anyhow, it was just a sentence. If you want to help me out, I'll definitely 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."

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?"

∽***∼

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."

Wang Hua stared at him, seeing his appearance, feeling unable to just let hm be, and so went on to say, "I'll be going with you tonight too, okay?"

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."

Wang Hua stared at him, seeing his appearance, feeling unable to just let hm be, and so went on to say, "I'll be going with you tonight too, okay?"

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 resect for the task?

"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."

Caught off guard, Xiao Ning blinked, asking, "What?"

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 being new. But he still took it and put it aside, then said, "Thank you."

"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?"

The waiter wrote each one of it down, then asked, "Is that all, Sir?"

∽***∼

"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."

What kind of excuse is that?

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?"

Xiao Ning now understood it all clearly, so with a touch of incredulity, he proceeded to ask, "Is my agreement a condition?"

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.

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.

"Alright then. Please wait a while." They had ordered a lot of dishes, so after writing it down, their waiter left politely.

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?"

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 definitely 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."

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 eat 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.

"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."

Xiao Ning now understood it all clearly, so with a touch of incredulity, he proceeded to ask, "Is my agreement a condition?"

"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?"

Upon hearing him say this, Xiao Ning again refused the man's kind act, replying, "Wang-ge, please just stay at home with sister-in-law and my niece. I'll just go there by myself."

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.

How is this possible?

"Nope, not really." Shan Haiming's response was honest. "Anyhow, it was just a sentence. If you want to help me out, I'll definitely 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."

"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.

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.

"Let's add a desert." Shan Haiming then told the waiter, "Recommend one."

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?"

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?"

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 being one of the rare decent jobs to find.

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?"

"Wang-ge." Xiao Ning almost wanted to snatch the phone from his hands. "Can you let me think it over for a minute..."

"Nope, not really." Shan Haiming's response was honest. "Anyhow, it was just a sentence. If you want to help me out, I'll definitely 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."

How is this possible?

"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 friend? He might even come looking for you to help him out again with something else next time, you know?"

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 a compensation all because of something he did not do, he was truly unwilling.

After leaving the hospital, Xiao Ning returned to his place to change into some slightly more formal attire. At noon on the dot, he then 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 stared at him, seeing his appearance, feeling unable to just let hm be, and so went on to say, "I'll be going with you tonight too, okay?"

"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 friend? He might even come looking for you to help him out again with something else next time, you know?"

It has been said, 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.

What kind of excuse is that?

A Fated Meeting

What kind of excuse is that?

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?"

"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."

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.

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."

How is this possible?

"Wang-ge." Xiao Ning almost wanted to snatch the phone from his hands. "Can you let me think it over for a minute..."

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."

"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."

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."

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 really 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."

∽***∼

Upon hearing him say this, Xiao Ning again refused the man's kind act, replying, "Wang-ge, please just stay at home with sister-in-law and my niece. I'll just go there by myself."

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 like 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.

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?"

"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."

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.

"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 hm be, and so went on to say, "I'll be going with you tonight too, okay?"

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."

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."

Hesitating for a while, he then said directly, "So what preparations do we need to make?"

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 man I am? Even if I had pretended to be his partner, do you think anybody would believe it?"

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?"

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 like 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.

"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 friend? He might even come looking for you to help him out again with something else next time, you know?"

This act of his left Xiao Ning taken aback.

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 being new. But he still took it and put it aside, then said, "Thank you."

"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 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.

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.

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."

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 resect for the task?

His reasons for this choice was, first, due to him not wanting to keep Wang Hua back; and, second, about him not wanting Shan Haiming to mention that favour. Anyhow, Xiao Ning really did not want Wang Hua to hear them both discuss that matter.

Only a few minutes then passed, before Shan Haiming entered.

What kind of excuse is that?

Only a few minutes then passed, before Shan Haiming entered.

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..."

Xiao Ning: "..."

In response Xiao Ning let out a sigh before giving Wang Hua a light nod.

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."

∽***∼

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 still remained. But when he raised his head to look, he saw that Shan Haiming's order was almost gone, making his earlier words true.

N/A

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."

Hesitating for a while, he then said directly, "So what preparations do we need to make?"

By then, reluctance and embarrassment was completely etched on Xiao Ning's face, as he tried to refuse, saying, "Really, there's no need for..."

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?"

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 like 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.

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.

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."

Hesitating for a while, he then said directly, "So what preparations do we need to make?"

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."

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 man I am? Even if I had pretended to be his partner, do you think anybody would believe it?"

"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."

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?"

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 resect for the task?

In response Xiao Ning let out a sigh before giving Wang Hua a light nod.

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..."

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?"

His reasons for this choice was, first, due to him not wanting to keep Wang Hua back; and, second, about him not wanting Shan Haiming to mention that favour. Anyhow, Xiao Ning really did not want Wang Hua to hear them both discuss that matter.

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 being new. But he still took it and put it aside, then said, "Thank you."

However, seeing Shan Haiming act like this, Xiao Ning actually 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.

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?"

A Fated Meeting

So now the two of them, sat at their table in total silence.

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.

"You can ask him." Saying this, Shan Haiming used his chin to motion towards Xiao Ning.

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."

N/A

"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."

∽***∼

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 eat 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.

Upon hearing him say this, Xiao Ning again refused the man's kind act, replying, "Wang-ge, please just stay at home with sister-in-law and my niece. I'll just go there by myself."

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.

Xiao Ning did not understand this. For him, life was simple, and topics of gossip never interested him. It was something he he couldn't wrap his head around, and neither had he experienced it.

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."

Xiao Ning: "..."

"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 friend? He might even come looking for you to help him out again with something else next time, you know?"

Upon hearing him say this, Xiao Ning again refused the man's kind act, replying, "Wang-ge, please just stay at home with sister-in-law and my niece. I'll just go there by myself."

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 still remained. But when he raised his head to look, he saw that Shan Haiming's order was almost gone, making his earlier words true.

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."

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 to appetising, it made Xiao Ning unable 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.

"Let's add a desert." Shan Haiming then told the waiter, "Recommend one."

Xiao Ning did not understand this. For him, life was simple, and topics of gossip never interested him. It was something he he couldn't wrap his head around, and neither had he experienced it.

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 was 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?"

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."

Upon hearing him say this, Xiao Ning again refused the man's kind act, replying, "Wang-ge, please just stay at home with sister-in-law and my niece. I'll just go there by myself."

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?"

It has been said, 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.

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.

Xiao Ning while eating it 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, San 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.

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 while eating it 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, San 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?"

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 a compensation all because of something he did not do, he was truly unwilling.

"You can ask him." Saying this, Shan Haiming used his chin to motion towards Xiao Ning.

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 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.

Hesitating for a while, he then said directly, "So what preparations do we need to make?"

Xiao Ning now understood it all clearly, so with a touch of incredulity, he proceeded to ask, "Is my agreement a condition?"

"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."

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."