Chapter 15: 15. Xiang Mingzhang Proposed Simplified Characters.

Chu Zhichen's previous removal had not been accompanied by a formal punishment announcement from Xiang Yue, leading to speculative discussions that were calmed to some extent by the vague treatment. 

Once again, news of his return to Xiangyue spread rapidly. After more than ten days, he assumed the role of Xiang Mingzhang's secretary. 

The dismissal for alleged misbehavior seemed implausible, as this type of "departure and return" had never been witnessed before. 

Shortly after, the HR Department issued an official announcement, and the company's website updated the employee information. All the necessary procedures were conducted thoroughly, confirming the authenticity of the news. 

Having completed the formalities, Chu Zhichen returned to the ninth-floor sales department. As he made his entrance, a palpable sense of awkwardness hung in the air. His colleagues, who had previously isolated him, now found themselves unsure of how to navigate this new situation. 

Except for Ling Qi, who approached him with a joyous expression. "Why have you come back?" he exclaimed. 

Speaking softly, Chu Zhichen replied, "I'll let you know when we have time." 

The secretary's office, located just outside the president's office, was a modest size, but it boasted a similar decor to the president's office. 

The walls were painted a light gray, and the furniture was made of dark wood. There was a large desk in the center of the room and a credenza against one wall. The desk was piled high with papers, but the credenza was neatly organized. A few plants in pots added a touch of life to the room. 

It had been locked for a few months during its vacancy but had now been tidied up. 

Placing a box of personal belongings on the desk, Chu Zhichen thought that since there was a secretary's office, Xiang Mingzhang must have had a secretary, even though Chu had never seen one in the company. 

Passing by the door, Xiang Mingzhang noticed him and cast a glance. Sensing this, Chu Zhichen intuitively followed him and caught up to his stride, entering the president's office. 

The room, which had remained closed throughout the weekend, felt somewhat stuffy. Xiang Mingzhang pressed a few buttons on an electronic touch screen mounted on the wall, simultaneously activating the blackout curtain and ventilation system, while lowering the air conditioner by three degrees. 

Chu Zhichen recalled this little habit and seized the opportunity to inform, "The onboarding process has been completed." 

Xiang Mingzhang was always serious and aloof in the company. He had no intention of wasting time on formalities, so he issued a direct order: "Notify the B project team and schedule a meeting for ten minutes from now." 

"Okay," Chu Zhichen responded without requiring further clarification, immediately assuming work mode, and prepared to depart. 

However, Xiang Mingzhang cleared his throat. 

Pausing in his tracks, Chu Zhichen realized that since he was here, he should commit to performing his duties diligently. 

Adopting the tone of a secretary, he asked, "Mr. Xiang, is there anything else?" 

Xiang Mingzhang requested, "Coffee." 

Chu Zhichen proceeded to the pantry to prepare a cup of black coffee. Based on his previous observations, Xiang Mingzhang preferred it unsweetened and without milk, and Chu Zhichen took note of such preferences when delivering it to the office. 

With the office door closed, Xiang Mingzhang took a sip of the coffee. Half a month ago, he could have never fathomed that one day he would have Chu Zhichen serving as his secretary. 

Unlike other positions that required resumes and relevant experience, and adherence to company regulations, the role of a secretary was primarily driven by personal satisfaction, making it challenging to fulfill. 

The previous secretary had defied his orders and engaged in negotiations with the Chu family on the night of the yacht explosion, resulting in his dismissal. It was only logical for Chu Zhichen, who played a key role in the accident, to assume his position. 

Most importantly, having people under his direct supervision allowed for easier control and seamless execution of his commands. 

Xiang Mingzhang did not have elaborate plans. The bank project necessitated Chu Zhichen's involvement, and there was always a need for a secretary. Therefore, he decided to proceed for the time being. 

Finally, Chu Zhichen possessed an employee account, granting him access to Xiangyue's robust and comprehensive internal system. However, before he could even explore it, he found himself promptly issuing a meeting notice. 

Ten minutes later, in the multifunctional conference room, the B project team had assembled, including a supervisor and a senior engineer from the R&D center. Among them was Xiang Ruxu, whom Chu Zhichen had briefly met at the Xiang family's residence. 

Taking a seat alongside Xiang Mingzhang, Chu Zhichen was immediately struck by the brightly decorated multifunctional meeting room. The walls were painted a cheerful yellow, and the artwork was a mix of modern and traditional Chinese pieces. The round table in the center of the room was made of polished wood, and there were comfortable chairs for everyone. 

Chu Zhichen could tell that the room was designed for round-table discussions. This was a good sign, as he preferred this style of meeting over the more traditional lecture format. Round-table discussions allowed everyone to participate equally, and they helped to create a more collaborative and creative atmosphere. 

Peng Xin encountered a roadblock with Team Leader Zhao but managed to find an alternative approach by targeting the technical backbone of the selection team and obtaining some valuable clues. 

Xiang Mingzhang nodded in agreement, "The selection team should not have a monopoly. Each team member should have a voice. The more people you gather, the more favorable the conditions will be. Keep reaching out to them." 

"Very well, I will do that," Peng Xin replied. "And what about Team Leader Zhao?" 

"I have already discussed the requirements with Team Leader Zhao," Xiang Mingzhang informed him. 

Peng Xin's face lit up, expressing his satisfaction, "That's great!" 

Xiang Mingzhang turned to the person sitting next to him and said, "Secretary Chu, please update us." 

Everyone was initially joyful, but soon confusion took over. On the surface, Chu Zhichen was present to take meeting minutes, so why was he now suddenly involved in the project, particularly in its most crucial aspect? 

Chu Zhichen opened his notebook, meticulously reviewing the details of the communication. His explanation of the bank's business needs was clear and comprehensive. 

Peng Xin couldn't help but tug at his tie, realizing that his contributions were overshadowed in comparison. 

From the corner of his eye, Chu Zhichen noticed a small addition to the end of his speech, "These are the points discussed so far, which I have relayed for Mr. Xiang." 

Xiang Mingzhang admired Chu Zhichen's precision and thoughtfulness. However, being aware of Peng Xin's character, he understood that Peng was not one to covet recognition for others' work. After all, he wouldn't have been promoted to sales director without his strong leadership qualities and talents. 

The crucial point was that he didn't want to take credit away from others, so Xiang Mingzhang declared, "This has nothing to do with me. Secretary Chu has put in a significant amount of effort and will be working on this project alongside us. If you have any questions, feel free to discuss them directly with him." 

Regardless of how the project was progressing, everyone was now fueled by a renewed spirit of determination. Chu Zhichen found himself juggling between writing down key points on paper while simultaneously taking notes on his computer. 

In a surprise move, Xiang Mingzhang approached him, assuming the role of an invigilator observing someone answering a question. 

Chu Zhichen didn't stop writing and glanced at his boss, giving only a brief acknowledgment, "Is there a problem?" 

Xiang Mingzhang suggested, "Let's write in simplified characters. It'll be less of a hassle." 

Chu Zhichen, who was practicing his handwriting, responded with an "Oh..." 

Two days later, Xiang Mingzhang asked Chu Zhichen and Peng Xin to meet with Team Leader Zhao, citing his inability to be present. 

The meeting took place at a business club, allowing for ample time to engage in more detailed discussions between the two groups. 

Understanding Xiang Mingzhang's intentions, Chu Zhichen sent Peng Xin not only to discuss the project but also to establish closer connections. 

If the head of the sales department, Peng Xin could collaborate effectively with him, it would set an example for the rest of the department. Breaking down barriers from top to bottom was crucial this time. 

As they left the clubhouse at dusk, Chu Zhichen learned from his previous mistakes. He called Xiang Mingzhang while walking down the street, seeking permission to leave work and go home. 

The gate of the Chu family residence was wide open, and a large jeep belonging to Li Heng was parked outside. 

Li Zangqiu, standing under a parasol in the garden, had a driver unloading items into the trunk. 

The Chu family had a farm in New Zealand where they harvested honey and fruits, which they airlifted over for Li Zangqiu to enjoy. 

It wasn't necessary for the driver to make the trip personally for such matters, so perhaps it was inconvenient for Li Zangqiu to mention it in the company. Chu Zhichen had no instinct for "avoidance" in such situations, so he approached him. 

"Uncle, why don't you come in and have a cup of tea?" Chu Zhichen offered. 

"Zhichen, you're back," Li Zangqiu smiled kindly. "Is work keeping you busy?" 

Chu Zhichen replied, "I'm not tired. I can handle it." 

Li Zangqiu appeared remorseful as he spoke, "I was worried about your expulsion and wanted to find an opportunity to help you stay, but you took matters into your own hands. Sigh, but you're too impatient." 

Chu Zhichen inquired, "Is that not a good thing?" 

"The role of a secretary is troublesome. To put it bluntly, it involves serving people," Li Zangqiu explained. "The Chu family and the Xiang family have a friendship, you being the young master of the Chu family and becoming Xiang Mingzhang's secretary - foolish boy, he's demeaning you." 

Chu Zhichen remained calm and argued, "I work for myself, so how can I be demeaned?" 

Li Zangqiu advised, "It depends on who puts in the effort. The previous project was not as simple as it seemed. Be cautious about being used by Xiang Mingzhang." 

"Do you think so?" Chu Zhichen feigned ignorance. He wasn't skilled at pretending, so he merely appeared slightly less intelligent. "Thank you, uncle, for the reminder. I will keep it in mind." 

Li Zangqiu hinted, "Whenever you face difficulties, come to me. Don't be too naive." 

Chu Zhichen nodded in agreement and escorted Li Zangqiu to his car before he left. 

Under the porch of the villa, there were still seven or eight wooden boxes piled up. Chu Zhichen bent down to pick up a bottle of honey, which had a yellow color, a sky-blue lid, and lace around the mouth. It was a lovely creation by Mrs. Chu. 

Aunt Tang approached to put it away and suggested, "We've collected plenty. Take some and put some in the water at the office to drink." 

Curious, Chu Zhichen asked, "Just soak it?" 

Aunt Tang explained, "Just add two spoons of warm water. It's beneficial for the spleen and stomach." 

The following day at work, Chu Zhichen had a meeting with the B project team and was preparing to write the plan. 

None of the major companies gained the upper hand in the previous negotiation, so they held back their energy for the second round. The outcome of this round would significantly impact the final bidding. 

Chu Zhichen was busy managing both ends and felt a great sense of fulfillment. As the evening arrived, his colleagues left work one after another, but he chose to stay a little longer to study the PowerPoint presentation. 

In the CEO's office, Xiang Mingzhang stretched his neck at his desk. There was an overseas video conference scheduled for the evening, accommodating the time difference between the two parties, set for eight o'clock. 

With a sip of cold water remaining in his cup, Xiang Mingzhang pressed the internal line in the secretary's room and asked, "Are you still here?" 

Chu Zhichen replied, "I'm here." 

"I'm thirsty," Xiang Mingzhang stated. 

Chu Zhichen brought a cup of warm water, walked around the desk, and placed it down. Xiang Mingzhang opened a drawer, retrieved a bottle of pills, and swallowed two. 

"Are you feeling unwell?" Chu Zhichen inquired. 

"I have a stomach ulcer," Xiang Mingzhang nonchalantly explained. "It's fine, let's proceed." 

The transoceanic meeting lasted for an hour and a half. After it concluded, Xiang Mingzhang emerged from his office. The department was empty, and the door to the secretary's room was closed gently, casting a soft, diffused light. 

As he walked by, Chu Zhichen called out to him from inside the room. 

Xiang Mingzhang pushed the door open and entered. His previous secretary was also male, and the room lacked attention to detail. Now with a new person, the room was clean, tidy, and thoughtfully arranged, even featuring a bottle of orchids. 

Chu Zhichen took out a shopping bag and said, "Your windbreaker has been sent for dry cleaning. I will return it to you." 

Xiang Mingzhang had forgotten about the garment and reached over to retrieve it. It was heavier than a suit, catching his attention. He glanced down and unintentionally caught sight of the computer screen. 

Curious, Xiang Mingzhang asked, "Are you working on a PowerPoint presentation?" 

Chu Zhichen confessed, "Yes, it's the plan for the second negotiation." 

Xiang Mingzhang responded, "This shouldn't be your responsibility." 

"Of course," Chu Zhichen admitted. "The project team has studied the plan's content, and the director of the pre-sales consulting department will handle it. I've never worked with PowerPoint before, so I'm merely trying it out for myself." 

PowerPoint presentations are primarily focused on the content rather than the mode of presentation. Xiang Mingzhang turned towards the monitor to review the completed portion, and Chu Zhichen had written almost all of the content he had mastered. 

Leaning over to grab the mouse, Chu Zhichen first made a backup of the original and then decisively deleted more than a third. 

Attempting to intervene, Chu Zhichen commented, "These are the core elements that explain the key demands, and they are crucial." 

Xiang Mingzhang responded, "That's precisely why I can't include them." 

Curious to know more, Chu Zhichen inquired, "Why not?" 

Leaning against the edge of the table, Xiang Mingzhang explained, "We managed to communicate with Team Leader Zhao, and we possess more information than our competitors. But it's not safe to reveal all our cards. If they are stolen, our competitive advantage will be significantly reduced." 

Chu Zhichen questioned, "Will omitting the core content affect the effectiveness of the communication?" 

"Thus, you have to prepare with a dual approach. The complete version will be used for communication, where the speech must be detailed," Xiang Mingzhang advised. "If any reference documents transmitted to Party A need to be deleted or revised, every company will make the utmost effort to contact Party A but ensure to keep a copy. Be cautious and prevent leaks." 

Chu Zhichen understood, expressing gratitude by saying, "Thank you for enlightening me." 

"Don't mention it," Xiang Mingzhang replied, glancing at his watch. "Now go home, or else your mother will accuse me of oppressing you." 

Chu Zhichen shut down the computer, gathered his things, and left work with Xiang Mingzhang. 

When the elevator reached the ground floor, Chu Zhichen exited first. 

Xiang Mingzhang entered the underground garage alone, unlocked the car with the key, opened the door, sat in the driver's seat, and placed the shopping bag on the passenger seat. 

A tinkling sound followed by the clashing of glass caught Xiang Mingzhang's attention. He found it peculiar, opened the shopping bag, and retrieved the windbreaker. Underneath the bag, there were seven or eight bottles of honey hidden. 

A Post-it note was attached to the lid of one bottle, and Xiang Mingzhang picked it up to read. Chu Zhichen had written, "Soak in warm water, two spoonfuls are sufficient. Drink a cup when you have stomach discomfort." 

Xiang Mingzhang was momentarily stunned, flicking the decorative lace with his finger and commenting, "It's quite girlish." 

The Rolls-Royce drove out of the park's gates, with few people on the road. Xiang Mingzhang noticed Chu Zhichen waiting for the bus on the side of the street. The science and technology park was not as bustling as the business district, and taxis were scarce after ten o'clock. 

Spotting the bag in the co-drivers seat, Xiang Mingzhang retrieved it and placed it in the back. He stopped the car, lowered the window, and said, "Get in." 

Reluctant to trouble the boss for uncertain consequences, Chu Zhichen hesitated, "No need, I'll just take a taxi." 

Xiang Mingzhang couldn't be bothered, remarking, "It's late, don't waste time." 

Chu Zhichen had no choice but to get in the car, fasten his seatbelt, start the engine, and drive toward the intersection. Suddenly, Xiang Mingzhang brought up the topic, "Did you put the honey inside?" 

Chu Zhichen had planned to slowly drink the honey at the office. Knowing that Xiang Mingzhang was taking stomach medicine, he took the opportunity to put a few bottles in his clothes. It wasn't exactly a gift, considering the expensive pipa, it was somewhat shabby. 

Chu Zhichen responded with an "mm-hmm," adding, "I heard it's good for the spleen and stomach." 

Xiang Mingzhang voiced his appreciation, saying, "Thank you, but won't it be too much?" 

Chu Zhichen reassured him, stating, "It's no problem. There are still more at home." 

Upon hearing the mention of "home," Xiang Mingzhang's thoughts shifted. He tapped on the car screen to make a call, with the caller ID displaying "Manzhuang." 

After the call connected, Xiang Mingzhang relayed, "Keep the door open, I'll be there soon." 

The person on the other end replied, "Miss Bai is still awake and has prepared some snacks. When you arrive, we can have dinner together." 

"Alright," Xiang Mingzhang acknowledged. "I'll be staying overnight, so tidy up the room." 

Chu Zhichen remained silent, deliberately turning towards the car window. Once the call came to an end, he spoke sensibly, "Drop me off at the intersection, there's no need to go any further." 

Xiang Mingzhang set his phone aside and replied, "It's too late for that." 

Chu Zhichen insisted, "It's fine, don't let me delay you from seeing your friends." He hesitated, then added, "Or your partner." 

With one hand on the steering wheel, Xiang Mingzhang swiftly passed the intersection, casually remarking, "They're not friends, it's my mother." 

[T/N: Half a month ago, he would never have imagined that one day he would ask Chu Zhichen to be his secretary. But after a long and difficult journey, you finally found your way to each other. You never would have thought that he would one day become your husband.]