Chapter Nineteen: Qing Yan Ci

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Today’s meeting was shorter than usual. Two images were handed to Zhang Yao and Liu Lan to try out. Although they had only recently joined, their skills were quite solid. They completed the two car images, and after a simple tweak by the promotion and operations team, it seemed to be approved immediately. This left Ye Jin feeling a bit awkward; she had previously had a big argument with Sun Xu over a car image. Now, Sun Xu would be working under her. She wondered how Sun Xu felt about this change. But it didn’t matter—this wasn’t her decision, the company had decided, and no one could change it.

“From now on, I’ll be counting on both of you for the design work. If you run into any problems with the images, I’m still here to help,” Ye Jin greeted Zhang Yao and Liu Lan as she was leaving. Starting tomorrow, she would be working on the promotion side. She wasn’t sure what to expect with the sudden department switch—while excited, she couldn’t help but feel a little anxious.

“Don’t worry, Sister Ye Jin, we’ve got your back. No matter where you are, you’re still our boss. Be sure to come back and visit us often,” Zhang Yao said sweetly, her words as sugary as if she had just eaten candy.

“Rest assured, but don’t make me come back too often, or else you’ll have to redo your images, won’t you?” Ye Jin teased her.

“Oh no, Sister Ye Jin, just a quick visit is enough,” Zhang Yao responded quickly. She knew Ye Jin wasn’t a harsh person—maybe because the three of them had always been united as a design team. What Zhang Yao didn’t know was that Ye Jin’s mentor, Tang Xiao, was a strict man. Both Sun Xu and Ye Jin had been victims of his rigorous standards, something even Ye Jin seemed to have forgotten.

The handover was supposed to take two days, but Ye Jin finished it in one—perhaps motivated by the raise she had received.

The next day, Ye Jin arrived at the office as usual. After breakfast, colleagues gradually trickled in.

“Bring your computer and sit next to me,” Tang Xiao came over and tapped on Ye Jin’s desk lightly, speaking in a low voice.

Ye Jin hadn’t decided whether to go, but Tang Xiao’s invitation was timely.

She tidied up, politely said goodbye to the two designers, and went to Tang Xiao’s side. He had already prepared a clean spot for her, likely arranged the day before.

“Thanks so much, Tang Xiao,” Ye Jin said politely, feeling a touch embarrassed.

“Don’t thank me yet! I printed some materials for you to study. Today’s task is to familiarize yourself with the backend system—just simple operations. Don’t mess with the data recklessly. If you don’t understand something, come ask me. Also, once you get the hang of it, you’ll need to write your daily work plan the night before, since it’s required for the next day’s meeting. Everyone attending the meeting must submit their daily plan to Manager Shen, then review unfinished tasks and reasons, followed by the next day’s plan. It’s a cycle. If you want a high salary, the pressure is intense. It’s not just the glamour you see on the surface!” Tang Xiao rattled off instructions, essentially giving Ye Jin a heads-up, fearing she might quit halfway.

“But don’t worry—I’ll personally guide you. A teacher only leads you to the door; it’s up to you whether you walk through. Life is unpredictable,” Tang Xiao added, seeing Ye Jin was quiet. Though he had told his parents he would return home in three months, it might be sooner—maybe even two months. His mother was eager for him to come back early.

“Alright, I’ll read the materials first and ask if I don’t understand anything. Do I have to write a work plan today?” Ye Jin asked cautiously, feeling the pressure after Tang Xiao’s lengthy briefing. She had said yes to Manager Shen earlier but now realized the job wasn’t as easy as it seemed.

“Not today. That will come later. For now, study this file I gave you. It’s a compilation of what I’ve learned over the years—most people wouldn’t buy it even if it were for sale. The password is 721. Don’t share it with anyone. Study it today; I’ll quiz you tomorrow! This is a printed copy, so don’t leak the digital file,” Tang Xiao smiled at Ye Jin, and that smile made her feel the weight of the responsibility.

“Okay,” Ye Jin replied simply.

“The meeting’s called in the group chat. Bring your notebook!” Tang Xiao said.

Tang Xiao used to be the last to enter meetings, but now with Ye Jin, they went in first. He understood Manager Shen’s difficulties better. Before, Tang Xiao disliked everyone because he felt they were not on the same wavelength—not because of any powerful backing.

From today, Ye Jin officially joined the meeting lineup. Tang Xiao went in first, and Ye Jin sat next to him.

Since Ye Jin was promoted to promotion assistant, her relationship with A Mei seemed to have cooled; they were no longer as close as before.

“Is everyone here? Let’s give a round of applause for the new member. We forgot to welcome the newcomer yesterday!” Manager Shen announced. Tang Xiao led the applause, joined by Sun Xu and Wu Nan.

“Thank you all for the trust and Manager Shen for the opportunity. I will study hard and hope to get guidance when I need it,” Ye Jin said the usual courtesy phrases.

“Let’s review yesterday’s plan—what wasn’t done and why? Sun Xu, you start.” The meeting lasted over an hour, mostly work reports. Ye Jin felt overwhelmed by the jargon: PV, UV, ROI, KPI. No wonder Tang Xiao gave her that file this morning—she felt the pressure mounting. She glanced at Tang Xiao, who was focused on the backend data, nodding occasionally at Sun Xu’s report.

After the meeting, Ye Jin sat at her desk studying the materials Tang Xiao gave her. Tang Xiao busied himself with backend data—typing, pondering, frowning, occasionally calling Sun Xu. Ye Jin tried to grasp the formulas and terms. Some she understood; others, especially bidding algorithms, were more complex. Tang Xiao encouraged her, “If you don’t understand, ask. Study well, review often, and don’t be ashamed to ask those below you.”

Ye Jin repeatedly asked Tang Xiao questions, who patiently explained. He advised her to memorize the formulas to reduce errors and improve efficiency. Her first day was spent memorizing formulas and familiarizing herself with the backend.

The busy day finally ended. At 6 p.m., the bell rang, but no one in operations left yet. The two designers had gone, but Tang Xiao, Sun Xu, A Mei, and Ye Jin remained at their desks.

Ye Jin looked at the three others. A Mei stretched, and Ye Jin looked at her again. Noticing Ye Jin’s subtle movements, Tang Xiao said, “You go ahead. We’ll leave soon. You can take your computer home to study more.”

Hearing this, Ye Jin felt awkward. It was her first day in a new department—how would it look if she left first?

“It’s okay, I’m not in a hurry. Let’s leave together. There’s nothing pressing at home right now,” Ye Jin quickly replied.

“Oh, alright. There’s not much left anyway. Let’s all head out. If there’s anything, we’ll discuss it in the operations group chat,” Tang Xiao said, preparing to shut down his computer. Ye Jin followed suit, as did A Mei and Sun Xu. Tang Xiao’s words clearly carried weight.

“How’s your first day? If you don’t understand something, ask immediately. No slacking when you operate on your own,” Tang Xiao asked Ye Jin after shutting down his computer.

“First day, didn’t do much yet. It feels complicated, but I’m confident I can learn. What about tomorrow?” Ye Jin was a bit intimidated by Tang Xiao—he was now her direct superior. They had argued before, and now things felt awkward.

“I’ll arrange tomorrow’s tasks for you. Don’t worry. Rest well tonight and don’t give up halfway. I have something to do now, see you tomorrow,” Tang Xiao said, grabbing his bag and leaving.

“See you tomorrow,” Ye Jin said, watching his back.

“A Mei, ready? Shall we go?” Ye Jin asked Zhang Zimei. They hadn’t left together in a while.

“Ready. Let’s go.”

“Boss, I’m heading out first. I’ve finished today’s tasks and sent you the files,” A Mei told Sun Xu.

“Alright, go ahead. I’m leaving soon,” Sun Xu said, already fiddling with his phone, not even acknowledging Ye Jin.

Ye Jin sensed Sun Xu was upset about her promotion from designer to promotion assistant. That was how the workplace was—everyone wanted to do well, and seeing someone previously below them surpass them was hard to accept.

After A Mei finished packing, she and Ye Jin headed to the subway station to go home.

The playful atmosphere between them was gone. Since Ye Jin’s promotion, relationships seemed to have shifted—probably because of Tang Xiao’s influence. Despite her promotion, Ye Jin hadn’t been the subject of gossip. Maybe Tang Xiao was shielding her.

“A Mei, let’s go have some rice noodles; it’s on me,” Ye Jin suggested. They used to eat together, shop together, and chat endlessly after work.

“No thanks. I’m tired today. I want to go home early, take a shower, order some takeout, and binge-watch some shows,” A Mei declined abruptly, sounding a bit dismissive.

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“What shows are you watching? Can you recommend something? I’d like to check it out,” Ye Jin asked, almost pleading. She had only really been close to A Mei during her two years at the company.

“Nothing special—just some comedies to relieve stress,” A Mei answered flatly.

“Alright,” Ye Jin replied, feeling a pang of sadness. She hadn’t wanted this position but had endured the pay cut the manager imposed—something A Mei knew nothing about. Adulthood was tough.

Unconsciously, they reached the subway station. The rush hour crowd surged as the train arrived. Everyone pushed forward, afraid to miss it. A Mei gripped Ye Jin’s hand tightly as they struggled through the crowd. Their friendship, though strained, still clung on. Ye Jin felt a little happy. Though nearly crushed together like meat in a sandwich, they wavered amid the sea of people, yet A Mei never let go.

That evening, after dinner, Ye Jin scrolled through videos on her phone.

“What are you busy with lately?” A message from Zhou Yan popped up. Ye Jin suddenly remembered she hadn’t contacted him in a long time.

“Just got off work, killing time watching videos,” she replied.

“Have you eaten? Why so late getting off? Are you tired?” Zhou Yan’s triple questions made Ye Jin feel warm inside—no one had cared about her like this in a while.

“I ate dinner already, just lying in bed playing with my phone. Then you messaged me,” Ye Jin said, ignoring the “tired” question.

“That’s good. You’re on your own out there, so take care of yourself. Health is the most important thing…” Zhou Yan sent a bunch of heartfelt messages. They chatted until past 10 p.m., realizing they shared common ground.

“Tired?” Zhou Yan asked, noticing the time.

“A bit,” Ye Jin replied.

“Then rest early! You have work tomorrow, and don’t skip breakfast!”

“Okay, you sleep early too!” Ye Jin answered.

“Good night! Sweet dreams!” Zhou Yan sent.

“Good night! Sweet dreams!” Ye Jin replied.

Thanks to Zhou Yan’s care, Ye Jin felt especially happy that night. Though uncertain of Tang Xiao’s plans for tomorrow, she decided to rest first. Even though they said good night at 10 p.m., she didn’t fall asleep until almost 11.

The following week was busy for Ye Jin—learning to read data, analyze store issues, and explore promotion strategies. Time always seemed insufficient, likely because she was new to the department. She felt the pressure mounting but was grateful for Tang Xiao’s presence, wondering how she could manage alone otherwise.

Zhou Yan also chatted with her from time to time, always messaging her first after work. Talking to him helped dissipate her fatigue. Honestly, sharing interests and values was key. Zhou Yan was genuinely good. Sometimes Ye Jin joked, “You’re so great; you should find someone better than me.”

“No one’s better than you. There are many good girls, but in my heart, you’re the best fit. I only have feelings for you. I’ll wait, but don’t let me wait until I’m an old man!” Zhou Yan joked, but jokes often held truths.

Hearing this, Ye Jin didn’t know how to respond. Time flew—one month passed, and Ye Jin was able to manage some stores independently. Her mornings were orderly and well-planned.

“Xing Ruo, I heard Wang Mian was sales champion again this time, but your performance was close!” Yang Yiyi said sitting beside Xing Ruo.

“Anyway, we don’t have to hand out flyers like we used to. We’re making sales now. I almost gave up before, but thanks to Wang Mian’s help, I’m grateful. Without him, I wouldn’t be where I am,” Xing Ruo recalled their times handing out flyers at the train station. Success required hard work.

“Yes, victory is tomorrow, but many people gave up last night. Luck and persistence both matter,” Yiyi agreed.

“Let’s congratulate today’s sales champ, Wang Mian. Come up and say a few words,” the sales department manager said near day’s end, hoping Wang Mian would offer guidance to help the team earn more.

“I’m always the one speaking, which is a bit boring. But this time I want to praise someone who’s no longer a newbie. From struggling to communicate on calls with stammers and nervousness to now negotiating confidently, with strong presence and professional knowledge—she almost topped me this time. Instead of me repeating myself, let’s hear from Li Xing Ruo, who joined not long ago but has improved rapidly. Let’s welcome her,” Wang Mian said, stepping aside at the front as all eyes turned to Xing Ruo.

Xing Ruo was no longer shy like when she first made sales. Though the manager hadn’t spoken yet, she was now on par with Li Yu and close to becoming manager herself.

“Xing Ruo, it’s your turn to share—your performance has been impressive,” the manager said. Xing Ruo accepted and stepped to the front, with Wang Mian encouraging her.

“To be honest, I don’t have special experience. I do the same things as everyone else, but sometimes when others are asleep, I’m still working late in the dorm, finishing jobs from work, organizing client data, optimizing listings, and following up. I learned this from Wang Mian, who’s diligent and practical. I’m very grateful to him! Also, I’m short on money but won’t do anything bad. I often think about when I’ll own my own home and my mother won’t have to work anymore…” Xing Ruo’s heartfelt words touched everyone. To make money, you have to be diligent—luck comes to those who work hard. There’s no such thing as getting rich without effort unless you have immense fortune.

Everything changed quickly. A few days after praising Wang Mian at a meeting, a message appeared in the group chat announcing his resignation. For a real estate manager, this was hard to accept, but Wang Mian had warned the manager in advance.

His departure was expected—he had the talent and no room to grow if the manager stayed. Plus, a headhunter from a prestigious real estate company in Long’an City had offered him a high salary. People always aim higher. Wang Mian had stayed loyal to his manager for three years despite other offers, out of gratitude.

He had also groomed Xing Ruo to take over, so his leaving would allow her to step up as manager. He had promised to prepare a successor before leaving, and he had fulfilled that.

That morning, after breakfast, the manager asked everyone to pause their work for an announcement. Everyone guessed it was about Wang Mian’s departure.

“Today is Wang Mian’s last day with us. We thank him for his three years of dedicated work. His efforts have been evident. We wish him success and flourishing in his future endeavors. See you at the peak!” The manager finished, prompting applause as everyone looked at Wang Mian, who smiled and stepped forward.

“I’m very grateful to the manager. When I started, I was naïve and impatient. Seeing others make sales made me anxious. I doubted myself and thought about quitting. The manager advised me to gain experience and solidify my professional knowledge. Sales would come naturally once clients saw my expertise…” Wang Mian spoke at length, mostly expressing gratitude. He wanted to explore the big cities and see how far he could go.

After work, Wang Mian booked a restaurant table, inviting the manager and Li Xing Ruo. He invited these two because one had given him an opportunity, and the other was his protégé. They’d still cross paths in this industry. Wang Mian was socially adept; Xing Ruo had learned much from him, though their manager was even more seasoned. That evening, the three shared food and drink. The manager praised Wang Mian’s growth from a naïve youth to a real estate elite in three years. Wang Mian encouraged Xing Ruo to surpass him soon. The moon was bright that night, but the twists of fate remained unseen.

“I remember when Wang Mian first came, his first phone call was a mess—nervous, incoherent, confusing the client,” the manager laughed. They all chuckled, and Wang Mian felt embarrassed.

“My first call was even worse. The client insisted I call him, but I was nervous, hoping he wouldn’t answer. I scrambled to find my script and stammered through it,” Xing Ruo said, recalling her rookie days. Every industry has nervous newcomers. With time, experience grows. She glanced at Wang Mian, who turned to joke with the manager.

The next day, with Wang Mian gone, Xing Ruo seemed listless, less motivated. She often glanced at Wang Mian’s empty seat. Perhaps she had feelings for him, but Wang Mian saw only friendship. Coming from a rural background, he wanted to earn money while young—his parents were getting old, and marriage and family awaited. It was not the time for romance. Wang Mian noticed Xing Ruo’s feelings but couldn’t offer more. As a salesperson, he understood.

Yes, Wang Mian was an elite, destined to climb higher. The headhunter who poached him worked for a major real estate company in Long’an City—Qingshan Real Estate Co., Ltd.—a coveted firm for many agents. Entry was tough: academic qualifications, elite status at previous companies, training, and exams. Only a few passed, with high pay but great pressure.

This company was run by Tang Youming—Tang Xiao’s father. After leaving Zhengxin Trading, Tang Xiao would likely work here. Only a month and a half remained—time flew.

Ye Jin had basically mastered the platform’s backend operations. Sometimes Tang Xiao deliberately stepped back, letting her handle things herself. Later, he gave her other tasks, encouraging her to find work independently. Newcomers needed a learning phase, but relying entirely on others was like leaning on a crutch—not good in the long run.

Though Ye Jin now operated independently, Tang Xiao still diligently checked her work daily, pointing out mistakes for correction. He was a benefactor to her. Seizing this opportunity, Ye Jin studied hard, confident she would soon become an elite in e-commerce.

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Stars do not question the traveler, and time rewards the diligent. Indeed, every profession carries pressure. Though methods differ, pressure is universal. Ye Jin had learned to cook early and monitor backend data. Her mornings filled with meetings, reviews, summaries, and execution had become routine. From knowing nothing to managing independently, it was thanks to her diligence and Tang Xiao’s guidance.

The story seems to end here, but it does not—the next chapter is about to begin.

Where there is reunion, there is parting; no banquet lasts forever. Ye Jin had studied promotion under Tang Xiao for nearly three months. Today was Monday; by Friday, the three-month period would end, and Tang Xiao would leave to inherit the family business—not quite yet, but to learn and share responsibilities. With many shareholders, Tang Xiao needed to prove himself capable before leading Qingshan Real.

“Come to my place for dinner tonight. Let’s chat. After that, you’ll be too busy, and it’ll be hard to catch you, big shot,” Wan Shen messaged Tang Xiao.

“Sure, I’ll be there on time,” Tang Xiao replied.

“Ye Jin, come here and have Tang Xiao watch your computer,” Manager Shen messaged Ye Jin, asking her to come to the office.

Again to the office? Ye Jin glanced at Tang Xiao, who was engrossed in his computer.

“Tang Xiao, please watch my computer. The manager wants to see me—I don’t know what it’s about,” Ye Jin said hesitantly.

“Go ahead. It’s definitely good news. Don’t worry,” Tang Xiao smiled slightly, comforting Ye Jin.

“Ye Jin, you’ve been learning for about three months. How do you think you’re doing? Can you handle all backend data alone?” Manager Shen closed the office door as soon as Ye Jin entered and poured tea for her.

“I think I’m doing well, especially with Tang Xiao. I’m familiar with the entire backend,” Ye Jin said, sipping tea.

“If you had to operate solo, could you manage? Tang Xiao used to do it alone. Imagine yourself as him—can you do it?” the manager challenged.

What nonsense—doing it alone would be fine without big promotions, but during major events, who knows if she’d mess up? Was there a grudge between Tang Xiao and the manager? Was Tang Xiao being fired? That couldn’t be; wasn’t he the boss’s cousin? Ye Jin wondered silently.

“What about Tang Xiao? Is he leaving?” Ye Jin asked, seeking confirmation.

“Tang Xiao has other plans. You don’t need to worry. The main thing is whether you can handle all platforms alone,” Manager Shen sounded impatient. With Tang Xiao around, he didn’t know if Ye Jin could take over. If Tang Xiao quit suddenly and the backend failed, there’d be no one to fix it.

“I think I can manage. The daily tasks follow Tang Xiao’s instructions. Now I mostly watch the platform data myself. Tang Xiao doesn’t give many orders anymore. I’m doing it on my own…” Ye Jin replied.

Hearing this, Manager Shen relaxed.

“So, your probation ends at the end of this month. You’ll sign a formal operation and promotion contract, and you’ll be responsible for all backend data alone. If the pressure’s too much, tell me in time. Sun Xu and Zhang Zimei will assist you. Keep working hard!” Manager Shen’s words implied Tang Xiao would no longer handle promotion. Where was he going?

“Understood, manager. And Tang Xiao?” Ye Jin felt a bad premonition.

“Tang Xiao will leave at the end of the month. You can ask him then. I have no more questions now. Anything else?” Manager Shen asked.

“No, that’s all,” Ye Jin said.

“Then go call Tang Xiao in here!” Manager Shen ordered.

“Okay,” Ye Jin thought about the uncertain future. Tang Xiao might not work here anymore—that was the fact.

“Are you not doing this anymore?” Ye Jin’s first question when Tang Xiao came out wasn’t about the manager’s call but to prepare herself.

“Did the manager ask you to talk?” Tang Xiao anticipated this and deliberately changed the subject.

“Yes, hurry up,” Ye Jin reminded him.

“There’s a car image from the designer department. Check if it needs edits. I’ll go in first.” Tang Xiao entered Manager Shen’s office without his computer. Shen had prepared tea.

“Manager, what’s the matter?” Tang Xiao asked, knowing the purpose but exchanging pleasantries.

“Have some tea.” Shen poured a cup of Da Hong Pao, a premium tea the boss had introduced before.

“Such a grand setup. Manager, do you have something to say?” Tang Xiao was curious.

“I heard you’re leaving?” Shen sipped his tea calmly, showing no surprise.

“Probably by the end of this month,” Tang Xiao sipped and replied slowly.

“This is sudden. Company policy requires a month’s notice,” Shen said, mildly questioning. A manager not knowing an employee’s resignation until the last minute was unusual—was it the employee’s fault or the manager’s?

“Sorry, manager. It’s a serious family matter. I told the boss in advance. I was supposed to stay another year, but my family needs me. Don’t worry, Ye Jin can handle everything now, so there’s no need to worry,” Tang Xiao said, their conversation like a game of Tai Chi—giving and taking. From disdain to respectful speech, Tang Xiao had changed somewhat. Sensing the mood, he quickly changed the topic.

“As long as Ye Jin can fully take over, your contribution is significant. You were the breadwinner, and now you can pass the torch. What are your plans?” Shen probed.

“I’ll develop back home. My parents are getting old and need me. Last time I visited, my mother urged me to find a job at home for a stable life,” Tang Xiao said calmly.

“You’re quite filial. Well, I wish you success. Come back to visit when you can…” Shen offered encouragement. In truth, Shen had no idea about Tang Xiao’s family background. He thought Tang Xiao was returning to a small city with low pay, making the move seem unambitious.

“I’ll remember your words, manager,” Tang Xiao replied knowingly.

Shen thought, “I said that to him, and he actually believed it. That troublemaker finally couldn’t endure it anymore. He’s always caused me headaches, but now life at the company will be peaceful. I’m happy just thinking about it.”

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