Chapter 26.2

A man stepped out of the front passenger seat next. After shaking hands with Ling Yaozhi, he smiled and said, “Andy, we’ll have plenty of time to catch up later.”

Song Wei straightened up and recognized him immediately—her former colleague and superior, He Ming.

He Ming had joined later than Song Wei but rose quickly due to his strong capabilities and decisive style. He was highly regarded by Andy.

The two had worked closely under Andy’s guidance, spending more time together than most. At first, Song Wei saw him purely as a mentor, but over time, things became complicated.

A month before Song Wei left the capital, and before any layoff notices were issued, He Ming had confessed his feelings for her. Flustered, she carefully considered it but ultimately declined. She had always viewed him with admiration and professional camaraderie, nothing more.

The subsequent wave of layoffs left everyone preoccupied. The matter was shelved. After Song Wei’s name appeared on the list, He Ming had even spoken on her behalf to the higher-ups, though it didn’t change the outcome. Song Wei was still grateful for his effort.

Since securing the collaboration, they had only exchanged a couple of brief messages. Now seeing him again, Song Wei greeted him openly. “He Ming, long time no see.”

He looked at her with a faint smile. “Indeed, it’s been a while.”

After some small talk, the group entered the lobby. The space featured a product showroom for Guangnian, where a guide introduced the exhibits to Andy’s team.

Walking behind Ling Yaozhi, Song Wei found herself beside He Ming.

After a while, He Ming turned to her and said, “Song Wei, you’ve changed.”

Song Wei smiled. “How so?”

“I can’t quite put my finger on it.”

It wasn’t hard to pinpoint. In the capital, Song Wei had been wholly focused on work. While her dedication was commendable, it left her lacking vibrancy. Unlike other young women, she didn’t dress up or enjoy life much—she came across as a little dull.

But once you got to know her, her occasional relaxed smiles were incredibly charming. He had loved working alongside her for that reason.

Now, her ease was apparent on her face. Her speech was gentle, her smiles sweet, reflecting a satisfaction with her current life.

He Ming assumed it was the result of a more relaxed work environment. “How’s work? Are you tired?”

“Tired, but not as much as before.”

He Ming gestured toward Andy ahead. “Careful she doesn’t hear that.”

“You know it wasn’t because of Andy back then,” Song Wei replied.

True enough, the grueling work at one of the capital’s top tech companies was no secret. He Ming sighed, “Sometimes, I envy you.”

“Envy me? For what?”

“For having the courage to leave and come back.”

Song Wei said, “And you? Working with Andy now must be motivating.”

He Ming shook his head, dropping the topic. Fixing his gaze on her, he asked earnestly, “Song Wei, would you consider coming back?”

“I won’t go back.” She couldn’t anyway—she wasn’t alone anymore.

Their conversation paused as the introduction in front wrapped up, and they followed the group upstairs.

The next part of the schedule included a project progress report and an introduction to the initial equipment. Song Wei briefly delivered her report, taking an hour, followed by a demonstration by the R&D team. The ensuing discussion for improvements stretched all the way to the end of the workday.

In the evening, naturally, there was a dinner gathering. Song Wei messaged Chen Jubai to inform him of the situation, suggesting he go home first. Unexpectedly, he called back and said he would join.

Song Wei replied, “Director Ling is here. If you’re busy, there’s no need for you to come.”

He said, “I’m not busy. Andy was your previous supervisor. I should meet her.”

Song Wei, already back in her office, found his words amusing. “What does Andy being my former supervisor have to do with you?”

“How does it not?”

She was momentarily speechless. “Fine, do as you please.”

…

The dinner wasn’t a typical work-related gathering, so Song Wei wanted to make it special. She deliberately chose a local restaurant known for its distinctive cuisine.

The group avoided discussing work and instead chatted about their current lives.

Sitting beside Song Wei, He Ming ate a few bites before suddenly speaking. “Andy, shouldn’t we assign someone to oversee the project locally?”

Andy glanced between the two, her tone teasing, “What, are you volunteering to stay?”

He Ming shot a glance at Song Wei. “I’d like to. Thinking back, one has to be braver in life.”

Hearing this and noticing his not-so-subtle gaze, Song Wei’s heart sank. He Ming couldn’t possibly still have feelings for her, could he…

“I think that’s a good idea,” Andy added, smiling as she turned to Ling Yaozhi. “Director Ling, what do you think? Maybe we can even take Song Wei back with us.”

Ling Yaozhi, assuming she was trying to poach, chuckled. “Andy, you’re trying to poach talent right in front of me? No way, I can’t let her go.”

Andy smiled mischievously. “Then He Ming, you’d better work harder.”

“Sure.” He Ming gave Song Wei another lingering look, confirming her worst fears—this situation was far from good.

Just then, Chen Jubai arrived. He walked in to see the scene: the man sitting beside Song Wei staring at her with a look that left no room for misinterpretation.

Ling Yaozhi, already expecting Chen Jubai, introduced him to Andy. “Andy, this is our President Chen.”

Of course, Andy knew who Chen Jubai was—the young and talented founder of Guangnian Technology.

“President Chen,” she greeted.

Chen Jubai’s gaze swept past Song Wei before settling on Andy. With a polite smile, he said, “Hello, Andy.”

Ling Yaozhi gestured for him to sit. “Join us. Let’s eat and chat.”

Song Wei sat between He Ming and a young colleague who had accompanied them. This arrangement left Chen Jubai no choice but to sit beside Andy.

Her heart pounded as she worried about He Ming’s potential actions.

Unfortunately, her fears were well-founded.

When Song Wei’s glass was empty, He Ming reached for the drink bottle. Finding it empty, he asked the server for a room-temperature replacement. Once it arrived, he poured her a glass without giving her a chance to stop him.

Looking up, Song Wei was met with Chen Jubai’s confused and disapproving gaze from across the table.

Moments later, He Ming picked up some food for her. “I heard the local dishes here are quite spicy, but it seems you can’t handle much heat.”

Again, Song Wei glanced across the table, only to meet Chen Jubai’s narrowed eyes. A shiver ran down her spine. She quickly said, “He Ming, there’s no need. You eat.”

He Ming replied warmly, “It’s no trouble.”

“…”

“We’re planning to stay in Nan’an for another day since tomorrow is the weekend. Are you free? Let’s hang out.”

“I…”

He Ming interrupted, “Your parents live in Nan’an, right? If it’s convenient, I’d love to meet them.”

Though their conversation was quiet, the table was small enough for the others to hear every word clearly.

Song Wei dared not look up.

Chen Jubai, typically calm and composed, now emanated an intense aura that made her feel as if she were sitting on needles.

Song Wei stiffly responded, “They’re busy with work, and I have plans for the weekend. But if you’re sightseeing, I can help you plan an itinerary.”

He Ming didn’t relent. “It won’t be the same without you.”

Unaware of the tension, Andy chimed in with her characteristic teasing tone. “Song Wei, He Ming actually had other tasks this week, but he worked overtime for a week straight just so he could come see you.”

“…”

Song Wei was at her wit’s end.

Chen Jubai, no fool, lightly tapped his chin and quietly asked, “Manager He came here for Manager Song?”

Next to him, Ling Yaozhi smirked, clearly enjoying the spectacle.

He Ming openly admitted, “You could say that. Song Wei leaving the capital has always been a regret of mine. I’m hoping there’s still a chance to make up for it.”

Chen Jubai raised an eyebrow, his tone chilly. “That’s unfortunate. Manager Song is quite settled here. I don’t see her returning to the capital anytime soon.”

“I understand, and that’s fine,” He Ming replied, smiling. “President Chen, I respect Song Wei’s decisions. Work comes first.”

“Then what are your plans, Manager He?”

“It’s too early to say. Andy’s venture here is still in its early stages, so I can’t leave just yet. But I’ll keep trying.” He finished his statement with another meaningful look at Song Wei.

“…”

Song Wei lowered her head, avoiding his gaze, internally pleading, Can this conversation end already?

The dinner somehow concluded. Luckily, the conversation shifted back to work toward the end, giving Song Wei a moment to breathe.

After sending Andy and He Ming back to their hotel in a business car, the tension eased. With no outsiders present, Ling Yaozhi chuckled. “President Chen, our Manager Song is quite the catch. You’d better keep an eye on her.”

Chen Jubai shot him a glance and strode toward the parking lot, his heavy footsteps betraying his foul mood.

Ling Yaozhi, clearly amused, turned to Song Wei. “Don’t worry. Jubai’s straightforward. Just coax him a bit—it’s no big deal.”

Song Wei sighed and hurried after the man walking briskly ahead.

The drive home took 25 minutes. Chen Jubai remained silent, his expression cold, as though determined to ensure his displeasure was known.

Song Wei empathized—if a woman openly pursued him in her presence, especially one with a prior connection to him, she’d be furious too.

Even though their relationship wasn’t that deep yet, this matter needed to be clarified; otherwise, it could easily cause marital conflict.

It wasn’t until the car was parked that Song Wei finally dared to speak up. “Chen Jubai… ah, President Chen—”

His gaze shifted toward her, deep and unreadable.

After a moment, he pushed the car door open and got out, leaving her with just his back.

Song Wei’s heart sank. Oh no, he’s really angry.

Chen Jubai was usually mild-mannered, never raising his voice at her, let alone getting upset. This was the first time.

They entered the elevator with a group of children from the neighborhood. The kids greeted her cheerfully, “Sister Weiwei!”

Song Wei smiled. “Hi there!”

One of the kids, around seven or eight years old, stared at Chen Jubai with curiosity. “Sister Weiwei, is this your husband?”

The man looked down, glancing meaningfully at the little girl who had asked the question.

“…Yes,” Song Wei replied.

The little girl tugged on her sleeve, prompting her to crouch down. Whispering into her ear, the girl said, “Sister Weiwei, your husband looks really scary.”

Song Wei whispered back, “He’s just in a bad mood. He doesn’t mean to be.”

“Oh…” The girl rummaged through her pocket and pulled out a strawberry-filled hard candy. She handed it to Chen Jubai, looking up at him earnestly. “Big brother, here’s some candy. Don’t be upset, okay?”

Chen Jubai glanced at the candy, then at the girl, and finally took it, his tone softening. “Thank you.”

The little girl had another demand, putting her hands on her hips. “Big brother, you have to eat it. My mom says eating candy makes you happy. This is strawberry flavor—it’s my favorite!”

Though he seemed reluctant, he complied and ate the candy.

The children gradually left the elevator.

When they reached the 10th floor, the elevator chimed. The door slid open, and Chen Jubai strode out with his long legs.

Song Wei followed, grabbing his hand as he entered the passcode.

This couldn’t wait. It had to be resolved before they stepped inside.

Looking into his eyes, she softened her voice. “Are you upset?”

He lowered his gaze, remaining silent for a while. Just as she thought he wouldn’t respond, he said, “Not upset, just a little uncomfortable.”

Chen Jubai clenched his fist slightly. First, there was Shan Kaicheng, and now He Ming—she certainly attracted her fair share of attention.

Song Wei hadn’t expected such a direct answer. After a brief moment of surprise, she confessed honestly, “He Ming… he used to have a bit of a crush on me. Back in the capital, I had already turned him down, but I left in a hurry, so maybe he hasn’t let it go yet. Today, he didn’t know about us, which is why he said those strange things.”

She raised her right hand in a gesture of promise. “There were too many people today, so it wasn’t convenient to explain. Don’t worry, I’ll tell him everything later.”

Chen Jubai looked at her pleading eyes and the hint of grievance on her face. Whatever irritation he had felt dissipated instantly. Still, he kept a stern expression and asked, “Tell him what?”

“That I’m married. That I have a husband.”

“And what do you have?”

Seeing the hidden amusement in his eyes, Song Wei realized he was teasing her. Yet, she still softened her tone and called out, “Husband.”

A single piece of candy wasn’t enough to cheer him up—she still needed to coax him.

His gaze grew darker, the emotions within almost overwhelming. The next second, he pinned her against the door, wrapped an arm around her waist, and leaned down to kiss her.