Chapter 25.2

The conversation flowed naturally. Across the table, the woman’s radiant smile revealed prominent dimples. Shan Kaicheng stole a few extra glances before lowering his gaze.

The dishes arrived, and Song Wei leaned back to make room, then raised her teacup. “Here’s to future collaborations. I’ll probably trouble you a lot at work.”

Shan Kaicheng looked at her for a few seconds before raising his own cup. “To successful collaboration.”

The meal didn’t take long. Afterward, Shan Kaicheng insisted on giving her a ride home. Unable to decline, Song Wei accepted, seeing it as an opportunity to discuss work.

When they reached her apartment complex, Song Wei got out and said goodbye. “Thank you for the ride. See you tomorrow.”

“See you tomorrow.”

As the car drove away, Song Wei turned around and noticed a man standing not far off. His figure was half-hidden in the shadows, his expression unclear.

Song Wei jogged over, smiling as she asked, “What are you doing here?”

As the man stepped out to take out the trash, he glanced at the empty entrance of the residential complex and then back at her. In a low voice, he asked, “Who was that just now?”

Song Wei walked back towards him, the two of them side by side. “Shan Kaicheng. He helped me a lot today, so I had to treat him to a meal.”

Chen Jubai frowned. “Just for that?”

“Of course. Don’t be fooled by how hard he is to approach sometimes; he’s actually quite principled and loyal. He even warned me before, though I didn’t think much of it at the time.” Song Wei chatted as they walked. “And he’s very capable—always understands my intentions precisely and even exceeds expectations.”

She didn’t notice the change in the man’s expression beside her. “So, don’t you think he deserves his confidence? Your tech team is really impressive, Chen Jubai.” At least from her interactions so far, the tech and R&D teams at Guangnian were undoubtedly top-notch.

Chen Jubai tightened his jaw, watching her animatedly talk with a mix of admiration and frustration.

When they reached the lobby, Song Wei stopped and turned to face him. “Chen Jubai.”

He was half a head taller, looking down at her. “Weren’t you calling me President Chen earlier today?”

The woman in front of him grinned widely. “Oh, that’s work! But hold on, don’t speak yet. Let me finish.”

He closed his mouth.

“Honestly, I was really scared today. Without you, I’m just a new hire who’s been here for two or three months. Jiang Zhendong wouldn’t help me, and Vice President Ling might not either. Even calling the police might not have worked. I’ve been thinking…”

Song Wei looked up into his eyes, her voice softening. “Do you think I’m too conspicuous? Is that why I’ve become a target?”

After returning to the office earlier, she’d reflected deeply. She hadn’t done anything wrong, but the core issue was her lack of ability. That left her vulnerable, easy to be manipulated. Maybe one day, when she reached Zhuo Wan’s or his position, no one would dare to bully her anymore.

Chen Jubai replied firmly, “Song Wei, first, Fang Hongshen is just a terrible person. This would have happened regardless. Second, if you stay silent, they’ll only escalate. There’s nothing wrong with protecting your own interests.”

She felt a bit comforted and smiled again. “Thank you for today.”

He feigned ignorance. “Thank me for what?”

She played along, dimples deepening. “Thank you, President Chen, for standing up for me. Otherwise, I’d have to call the police and might have even lost my job.”

She looked up at him, though what she really wanted to say was: Thank you for being my support when I was lost and panicked.

She had the ability to resolve the situation, but today, she felt more confident, as if someone had her back. She didn’t have to fear falling.

Her smile was bright, her eyes narrowing with amusement. “Having a boss as a husband sure is great~”

His gaze sharpened. “Say that again?”

“Alright, alright, let’s go home!” Song Wei turned and walked ahead.

While waiting for the elevator, she casually reached out to hold his hand, pretending it was nothing.

She wasn’t completely comfortable with such gestures yet and could only manage this way.

Chen Jubai glanced down at their clasped hands, then at her flushed ears. A smile crept onto his face as he squeezed her hand in return.

“I haven’t eaten dinner yet,” he said abruptly.

Song Wei blinked, confused. “Huh?”

“Mom and dad aren’t home, so I didn’t eat.”

She understood and asked with a chuckle, “Do you want me to cook for you?”

“Can you?”

“Of course, of course! Whatever President Chen says.”

After all, he was her savior today. A meal was the least she could do.

At home, Song Wei went into the kitchen. While she couldn’t cook fancy dishes, making noodles was no problem.

Chen Jubai leaned against the doorway, arms crossed, with no intention of helping.

As she worked, Song Wei spoke, “If it’s awful, don’t blame me. You asked for it.”

“Okay.”

She boiled water for noodles and heated another pan to fry eggs and tomatoes.

Watching her skillful movements, Chen Jubai thought, Looks like Song Gaoyi lied to me. Still, he smiled and teased, “Looks like if I’m not home in the future, our daughter won’t have to live on takeout.”

Startled, Song Wei dropped the spatula into the pan and glared back. “Do you still want to eat?”

He laughed. “Yes.”

Ten minutes later, a bowl of noodles was on the table. Song Wei was slightly excited. “Try it.”

Chen Jubai picked up his chopsticks, glanced at her, and took a bite.

After one sip of soup and a mouthful of noodles, she eagerly asked, “Is it good?”

He frowned slightly, and Song Wei’s face fell. “Not good? Let me try.”

There was only one set of utensils. Chen Jubai scooped some noodles and soup with his chopsticks and spoon, offering it to her.

Song Wei leaned forward and ate.

After tasting it, she frowned too. It wasn’t terrible but lacked flavor. Unwilling to admit defeat, she said, “Have another bite.”

Chen Jubai fed her another mouthful.

“Soup,” she demanded.

He obediently scooped some soup and fed her.

Just then, the front door opened. Her parents, who had just returned, froze in the entryway. After exchanging a glance, they backed out in unison. “Carry on.”