pjbooks Chapter 11 A Beauty Enters the Game, Fateful Encounters
Chapter 11 A Beauty Enters the Game, Fateful Encounters
The chill of Kyoto lingered, and in the office of the president of Hengxin Group's Northern Region, all was quiet except for the faint sound of the air conditioner running.
Spring seemed to arrive exceptionally early in 2002.
When the magnolias were in full bloom, on an ordinary weekday afternoon, the sun shone brightly, casting warm rays into the office and casting bright spots of light on the floor.
Tang Muyang suddenly came to his senses, realizing that he had just lost his composure, and his ears felt slightly hot.
He quickly adjusted his posture, bent down to pick up the pen that had slipped off the table, and only when his fingertips touched the cold pen barrel did his emotions completely calm down.
"Sorry, I was thinking about something and my mind wandered."
He looked up, his gaze returning to Gong Yiqing, deliberately scrutinizing her with the professional eye one would use to examine a subordinate.
Gong Yiqing showed no displeasure; instead, her lips curved into a polite smile as she handed him the neatly bound resume with both hands.
"It's alright, Mr. Tang is very busy, it's common for him to be distracted. This is my resume, please take a look."
Her voice is gentle and soothing, possessing a reassuring quality.
Tang Muyang took the resume, his fingertips inadvertently brushing against the back of her hand. Both of their fingers paused for a moment before quickly separating.
He looked down and carefully reviewed the resume: a top-tier MBA from a prestigious university, and two stints as an assistant to the president of a well-known multinational company—his resume was practically perfect.
However, Tang Muyang knew in his heart that the resume was only a superficial reference. The position of senior assistant valued adaptability, work style, and compatibility more.
"Ms. Gong has an excellent resume."
Tang Muyang closed his resume, placed his hands on the table, leaned forward slightly, and gave a sharp look.
"But a senior assistant position requires more than just an impressive resume. What do you consider your greatest strength?"
This is a standard yet tricky question, and very few interviewees have been able to give him a satisfactory answer.
Gong Yiqing did not rush to answer. She lowered her eyes and thought for a moment. When she looked up again, she met his gaze steadily.
"My greatest strength is that I 'know'."
"know?"
Tang Muyang raised an eyebrow, a hint of interest stirring within him.
"Yes, I understand."
Gong Yiqing's tone was calm, yet it conveyed an undeniable certainty.
"I know when to remain silent when the boss needs quiet, and when to step forward when support is needed. I know how to simplify complex matters and do small things to the extreme. I am not just an executor, but also an interpreter."
These words were like a pebble falling into Tang Muyang's long-dormant heart, creating ripples.
Having experienced several failed relationships, his heart had long since become numb, but now it inexplicably began to beat again.
"The interpreter..."
He repeated it in a low voice, the corners of his mouth unconsciously turning up.
"That's a very unique way of putting it. If I needed someone to help me clean up my mess right now, what would you do?"
Gong Yiqing smiled faintly, a hint of mischievousness in her eyes.
"I will first find out the problem that is most troubling you, and then turn it into something that will save you the most trouble in the shortest amount of time."
Tang Muyang stared at her for five seconds, then picked up his pen and drew a heavy circle on her resume.
No need to try it out.
He spoke, his voice carrying a tenderness he himself was unaware of.
"You've been accepted. Report to work at 9:00 AM sharp tomorrow as my senior assistant."
A moment of surprise flashed in Gong Yiqing's eyes, but it quickly turned into joy. She bowed slightly and spoke sincerely.
"Thank you, Mr. Tang. I will not let you down."
The HR director, Lao Zhang, was completely stunned. Having worked in the group for many years, he had never seen this meticulous new president so decisive in hiring employees, even waiving the probationary period.
Tang Muyang ignored Lao Zhang's gaze, his eyes following Gong Yiqing's departing figure.
That figure was tall and elegant, like a plum blossom blooming alone in the cold wind, both aloof and extremely attractive.
He leaned back in his chair, let out a long sigh, and felt the sunlight streaming in through the window, warming his face.
He suddenly felt that this spring wasn't so cold anymore.
At 8:50 the next day, Tang Muyang walked into the office on time.
The office space was spacious, but it had previously been empty and messy, with documents piled up haphazardly, coffee cups placed to the side, and suits haphazardly draped over the sofa.
He was always busy with business and never paid attention to these details. His previous assistants were either clumsy or perfunctory and never satisfied him.
But the moment he pushed open the door, he was completely stunned.
The office has been completely renovated.
The documents on the table were neatly organized into categories, each labeled with a different color, making them clear and easy to understand.
The coffee cups were cleaned and stored in the sterilizer.
The suit on the sofa was ironed flat and hung on a special hanger.
Even the pothos plants on the windowsill that were on the verge of withering were given new life after their dead leaves were trimmed and they were thoroughly watered.
The air was filled with a faint, refreshing lemon scent.
"Good morning, Mr. Tang."
A gentle voice came from beside the desk. Tang Muyang turned his head and saw Gong Yiqing standing there with a document in her hand and a polite smile on her face.
Wearing a dark blue business suit, she looked even more capable and professional.
"You... arrived very early."
Tang Muyang's tone was slightly uncomfortable. He hadn't expected his new assistant to be not only outstanding in her work but also to handle even trivial matters so meticulously.
"Knowing that you would have many needs on your first day of work, I came early to prepare everything."
As Gong Yiqing spoke, she handed him the documents in her hand.
"This is your schedule for today, which I have already adjusted according to importance."
Her eyes were gentle, and her tone was calm.
"At 10:00 AM, the person in charge of the Xinde Industrial Zone project came to report on the progress. All relevant materials are on your desk."
Tang Muyang took the document and flipped through it, his eyes lighting up instantly.
The schedule was meticulously planned, with each item marked with its estimated duration, required materials, and even travel time taken into account.
"That's very thoughtful."
He praised it sincerely.
"This is my duty."
Gong Yiqing smiled slightly and turned to walk towards the coffee machine.
"Mr. Tang, do you prefer Americano, latte, or pour-over?"
"American style, no sugar."
Tang Muyang replied.
"Okay, please wait a moment."
A moment later, a fragrant cup of Americano was placed in front of him.
Tang Muyang took a sip; the temperature was just right, and the taste was rich and mellow, far surpassing the flavor of his own brew.
"You used to be a barista?"
He couldn't help but ask.
"No, I just enjoy researching these things in my spare time."
Gong Yiqing responded with a smile.
"A good cup of coffee can keep you energized all day long."
Tang Muyang looked at her, and a warm feeling welled up in his heart.
Having worked hard alone in a foreign land for many years, surrounded by people coming and going, very few people have paid such attention to his subtle preferences.
In the following days, Gong Yiqing's performance impressed Tang Muyang even more.
She not only managed the office perfectly, but also accurately grasped his work rhythm, knowing exactly when he needed quiet time to think, when he needed to communicate about work, and when he needed to take a short break.
Once, Tang Muyang was deeply troubled by an important contract clause. His brows were furrowed, and he slammed his pen on the table in frustration.
Seeing this, Gong Yiqing silently handed over a glass of warm water, and then quietly left the office.
Not long after, she returned with a document in her hand.
"Mr. Tang, I've reviewed the relevant legal provisions and similar cases, and this clause can actually be understood as follows..."
She pointed to the contents of the document and explained and analyzed it in a clear and organized manner.
Tang Muyang listened more and more attentively, his tightly furrowed brows gradually relaxed, and his eyes were filled with a sense of sudden enlightenment.
"You're right! How come I didn't think of that!"
He slapped the table, unable to hide his joy.
"Yiqing, you're amazing!"
Gong Yiqing blushed slightly at his sudden praise, looking a little shy.
"I just did what I was supposed to do."
"No, what you've done has already gone beyond your job description."
Tang Muyang looked at her with admiration in his eyes.
"With you here, I have so much less to worry about."
As the days went by, Tang Muyang's dependence on Gong Yiqing grew deeper and deeper.
This dependence has long transcended work and extended into the depths of my heart.
He knew that no matter what difficulties he encountered, as long as she was there, there was no need to panic.
Gong Yiqing, through their daily interactions, also witnessed a side of Tang Muyang that was previously unknown to others.
He is no longer the aloof CEO of a corporation, but an ordinary person with flesh and blood, who gets tired, frustrated, and longs for understanding and care.
She watched him work overtime late into the night for the project, hold his subordinates accountable for their mistakes, and show a childlike smile for every little success.
Without realizing it, her heart drew completely closer to him.
In mid-March, Hengxin Group's Xinde Industrial Zone encountered a major crisis.
Several key raw material suppliers joined forces to demand a 15% price increase.
For an industrial zone that has just gotten on track and has strict cost control, this is undoubtedly a fatal blow.
The atmosphere in Tang Muyang's office was heavy and oppressive.
Purchasing manager Lao Li was extremely anxious, pacing back and forth in the room.
"Mr. Tang, these suppliers are ganging up on us. If we agree to raise prices, our profits for this year will be wiped out; if we don't, the production line will be shut down completely, and the losses will be incalculable!"
Tang Muyang sat in the chair, his face gloomy.
He was well aware of the implications of this matter, and even more so that if he compromised, more suppliers would follow suit, and cost control would become nothing more than empty talk.
"Absolutely not."
He spoke in a deep voice.
"If we back down, it will be seen as weakness, and they will only take advantage of us."
"But we have no other choice!"
Old Li's eyes reddened with anxiety.
"Other suppliers either lack sufficient production capacity or fail to meet quality standards, making them impossible to replace."
The office fell into a deathly silence, all eyes focused on Tang Muyang, awaiting his final decision.
Tang Muyang rubbed his throbbing temples, his heart filled with anxiety.
We must find a solution that balances both price increases and supply chain continuity.
Just then, a gentle yet firm voice rang out.
"Mr. Tang, let me give it a try."
Everyone turned their heads and saw Gong Yiqing standing at the door, holding a folder, her expression calm and composed, as if the crisis before her was nothing more than a trivial matter.
"you go?"
A hint of doubt flashed in Tang Muyang's eyes.
"Yiqing, this is no child's play. These suppliers are all seasoned business veterans and will be extremely difficult to deal with."
"I see."
Gong Yiqing walked into the office and placed the folder in front of him.
"I have investigated the backgrounds of these companies. They appear to be working together, but in reality, they are riddled with internal conflicts."
"One of them is facing a tight cash flow and urgently needs to recover funds; the other is vying for government projects and places great importance on its corporate image."
"As long as we find their weaknesses and defeat them one by one, the crisis can be resolved."
She opened the folder, which contained detailed data analysis charts, clearly organized.
"This is my analysis plan, please take a look."
Tang Muyang carefully flipped through the pages, and the more he read, the more pleasantly surprised he became.
Gong Yiqing's analysis was incisive, not only accurately identifying the supplier's weaknesses but also formulating targeted countermeasures.
"Is this plan feasible?"
He looked up, his eyes filled with surprise and anticipation.
"If you authorize me, I'm 80% confident I can succeed."
Gong Yiqing spoke with confidence and certainty.
Tang Muyang was silent for a moment, then nodded emphatically.
"Okay! This matter is entirely in your hands. If you need my cooperation, just let me know."
"Thank you for your trust, Mr. Tang."
Gong Yiqing smiled slightly, turned around and quickly walked out of the office.
For the next two days, Gong Yiqing was like a soldier heading to the battlefield, shuttling between various suppliers.
She communicated patiently at times, argued logically at others, and used both kindness and firmness to advance step by step, handling each step perfectly, both saving face for the other party and firmly guarding her own bottom line.
Tang Muyang kept a close eye on the progress from his office and wanted to call to inquire several times, but ultimately refrained.
He believed in Gong Yiqing's abilities, and all he could do was give her his complete trust and support.
On the afternoon of the third day, Gong Yiqing returned to her office, her face showing some fatigue, but her eyes were bright and dazzling.
"Mr. Tang, the matter is resolved."
"real?"
Tang Muyang suddenly stood up, unable to hide his surprise.
"It's true."
Gong Yiqing nodded.
"The supplier with tight cash flow agreed to maintain the original price, and we can pay part of the payment in advance."
"For the company that values government projects, I helped connect them with relevant resources and agreed to supply them at the original price."
"The remaining suppliers, seeing the alliance crumble, naturally dared not persist any longer."
Tang Muyang was so excited after hearing this that he was speechless. He stepped forward and gently patted her shoulder.
"Yiqing, you've done a tremendous job! Thanks to you this time, the industrial zone would have been in real trouble!"
Gong Yiqing's cheeks flushed, showing a hint of shyness.
"This is what I should do, and it's all thanks to your trust and support."
Tang Muyang looked at her, his eyes filled with admiration and heartache.
This seemingly delicate woman possesses such immense power within her.
With her by his side, he felt as if he had the confidence to face all difficulties.
That evening, Tang Muyang made an exception and did not work overtime, returning to his residence early.
Lying in bed, he tossed and turned, unable to sleep, his mind filled with images of Gong Yiqing.
Her composed demeanor during interviews, her focused work, and her tireless negotiations—every scene of them was deeply imprinted in his heart.
He clearly realized that his feelings for Gong Yiqing had long surpassed the appreciation a superior has for a subordinate.
In April, Kyoto is bathed in warm spring sunshine and blooming flowers.
The Xinde Industrial Zone project is progressing steadily, and Gong Yiqing's outstanding performance has made Tang Muyang trust and rely on her more and more.
Their relationship became increasingly delicate as they spent every day together.
That afternoon, Tang Muyang was reviewing documents when Gong Yiqing knocked on the door and entered.
"Mr. Tang, you wanted to see me?"
"Yes, sit down."
Tang Muyang put down the documents and pointed to the chair opposite him.
"Yiqing, there's something I'd like to hear your thoughts on."
"Please speak."
Gong Yiqing took her seat, her posture elegant and composed.
"The group is about to launch a high-end jewelry series project, and I would like you to be in charge of the preliminary market research and planning."
Tang Muyang's eyes were serious.
"I know the task is demanding and unrelated to your current job, but I have complete faith in your abilities."
Gong Yiqing was slightly taken aback, then her eyes lit up with joy.
"Thank you for your trust, Mr. Tang! I will definitely do my best!"
"This project involves many professional fields. You can assemble a dedicated team, either by transferring internal staff or hiring external experts. As for the budget, I will fully support you."
Tang Muyang added.
"Okay, I understand."
Gong Yiqing nodded emphatically, full of energy.
Over the next few weeks, Gong Yiqing devoted herself entirely to the jewelry project, visiting major shopping malls, researching consumer preferences, and consulting jewelry design experts without stopping for a moment.
Tang Muyang also frequently participates in project discussions, and the two analyze data, explore design concepts, and plan market layout together.
During their time together, they were pleasantly surprised to find that their values and aesthetics were highly compatible.
They both prefer simple yet sophisticated designs and firmly believe that jewelry is a carrier of emotions, rather than simply an ornament.
On one occasion, the two argued about a design detail until late at night.
"This style is too complicated and does not conform to the aesthetic of modern women."
Gong Yiqing insisted on her opinion.
"Only complex craftsmanship can highlight the value of jewelry."
Tang Muyang retorted.
"Value is never about piling up craftsmanship, but about the soul of design."
Gong Yiqing's gaze was firm.
"Good design is something that captures your heart at first glance and evokes emotional resonance."
Tang Muyang looked at the light shining in her eyes and suddenly smiled.
"You're right, I was being stubborn and changed it according to your idea."
Gong Yiqing was taken aback at first, then smiled.
"Thank you, Mr. Tang."
In an instant, the atmosphere in the office became ambiguous and tender.
The two looked at each other in silence, an unspoken emotion quietly spreading in the air.
Tang Muyang was the first to break the silence.
"It's getting late, I'll take you home."
"it is good."
Gong Yiqing responded softly.
Inside the car, the two chatted for a long time, from work to life, from ideals to the future, with endless common topics, as if they had known each other for many years.
The car stopped downstairs at Gong Yiqing's house. She unbuckled her seatbelt but did not get out of the car immediately.
"Mr. Tang, thank you."
She suddenly spoke.
"What are you thanking me for?"
Tang Muyang turned to look at her.
"Thank you for giving me this opportunity, and for your continued trust and support."
Gong Yiqing's eyes were sincere.
"Without you, I wouldn't have grown up so fast."
Tang Muyang looked at her, his heart pounding with emotion, and gently rubbed her hair.
"Fool, you are good enough yourself, I just provided a platform."
Gong Yiqing blushed, lowered her head, and spoke softly.
"Mr. Tang, you're so kind."
Tang Muyang's heart softened instantly. Looking at the gentle and beautiful woman in front of him, he felt an overwhelming urge to hold her in his arms.
But he held back in the end.
He didn't want to rush things or disturb this hard-won happiness.
"Go upstairs and get some rest."
He gave his gentle instructions.
"Yes, you should go home early too."
Gong Yiqing nodded, opened the door, and got out of the car.
Tang Muyang watched her figure disappear into the stairwell before driving away.
That night, he had a tender dream.
In his dream, he and Gong Yiqing strolled hand in hand, accompanied by blooming flowers, warm sunshine, and peaceful days.
He knew that this dream would eventually become a reality.
In early May, the group decided to hold a grand jewelry appreciation event in Kyoto, and at the same time promote the real estate project in the Shinde Industrial Zone.
This is a crucial opportunity to showcase the group's strength. Tang Muyang attaches great importance to it, personally taking the lead and appointing Gong Yiqing as the chief planner.
For this event, Gong Yiqing practically lived at the company, personally handling everything from venue selection and event planning to guest invitations, stage setup, and gift preparation.
Tang Muyang often accompanied her when she worked overtime, either by offering advice or by sitting quietly beside her, watching her busy figure with a heart full of tenderness.
On one occasion, Gong Yiqing stayed up all night for several nights in a row and almost fainted due to exhaustion.
Tang Muyang immediately stepped forward to support her, his voice full of anxiety and heartache.
"Why don't you take care of your health? No matter how important work is, it's not as important as your health!"
Gong Yiqing felt a surge of warmth in her heart as she looked at his nervous expression.
"I'm fine, just a little tired. I'll be fine after a rest."
"No, go home and rest right now. Leave the rest of the work to me."
Tang Muyang's tone left no room for argument.
"But the event is about to start, and there are still many things to finish..."
Gong Yiqing was filled with worry.
"Trust me, I will handle it properly."
Tang Muyang's eyes were firm.
"Your task now is to get some rest."
Gong Yiqing looked at him, nodded, and softly agreed.
Tang Muyang personally drove her home and thoughtfully prepared dinner for her.
"Get some rest, and call me anytime if you need anything."
Before leaving, he repeatedly gave instructions.
Gong Yiqing lay on the bed, watching his departing figure, her heart filled with sweetness.
She was certain that this man truly cared about her.
A few days later, the jewelry appreciation event was held as scheduled.
The event was held at a top hotel in Kyoto, with a beautiful and artistic atmosphere. Celebrities, business elites, and media reporters gathered together, making it a grand and solemn occasion.
Tang Muyang, representing the organizers, delivered a speech, displaying elegance, composure, and confidence, becoming the focus of the entire event.
As the chief planner, Gong Yiqing coordinated various matters in an orderly manner behind the scenes. Looking at him shining brightly on the stage, her eyes were full of pride and joy.
The event proceeded exceptionally smoothly, with the jewelry exhibits receiving high praise from the audience and the real estate project presentations also proving to be a resounding success.
After the event, Tang Muyang found Gong Yiqing and gave her a warm hug.
"Yiqing, you're amazing! This event was a huge success!"
He spoke with great emotion.
Gong Yiqing felt slightly warm from his embrace, but her heart was filled with sweetness.
"This is the result of everyone's joint efforts."
"No, you are the greatest contributor."
Tang Muyang released her, his eyes filled with affection and love.
"Without you, there would be no perfect life today."
Gong Yiqing blushed and lowered her head shyly, not daring to meet his gaze.
Tang Muyang raised his hand and gently lifted her chin, making her look directly at him.
"Yiqing, I like you."
His tone was serious and solemn.
From the first moment I saw you, I knew you were the one I had been waiting for.
Gong Yiqing froze instantly, her heart pounded, and her cheeks burned like fire.
"President Tang..."
Call me Mu Yang.
Tang Muyang interrupted her softly.
"From now on, don't call me President Tang anymore."
Looking into the sincere love in his eyes, all of Gong Yiqing's worries and anxieties vanished.
She spoke softly, her voice choked with emotion.
"Mu Yang..."
Tang Muyang smiled, lowered his head, and gently kissed her forehead.
"Yiqing, be my girlfriend, and I will love and protect you for the rest of my life."
Tears welled up in Gong Yiqing's eyes, and she nodded vigorously.
"I do."
At that moment, all the surrounding noise vanished, and the whole world consisted only of each other.
The gentle moonlight bathed the two embracing figures, enveloping them in endless romance.
Tang Muyang held Gong Yiqing's hand tightly as they walked home, their fingers intertwined as if they were holding onto a lifetime of peace.
"Yiqing, do you know?"
Tang Muyang spoke softly.
"I once thought I would never believe in love again, until I met you and realized how beautiful love truly is."
Gong Yiqing leaned on his shoulder, her voice gentle.
"Me too. I used to be completely focused on work, but after meeting you, I realized the warmth of having someone by my side."
The night was deep, the lights were dim, and no one noticed that in the shadows of the street corner, a faint light from a cell phone screen flashed by in an instant.
A fateful entanglement fraught with hidden turmoil has only just begun.