WWFILABR 131 to 140

 Chapter 131: A Bit Dazzling

TL: Etude

The next morning, with autumn in full swing, the maple woods were steeped in rich colors.

Jiang Qin’s entrepreneurial story was published in the Linchuan Youth Daily and delivered early in the morning to the distribution center.

University students generally don’t read newspapers, not even the campus ones, let alone those from outside the school. However, if the newspaper features someone they know, it becomes an exception.

For instance, Jiang Tian, who returned to the dorm early in the morning with a stack of newspapers, then distributed them one by one.

“He, an ordinary college student. He, an unremarkable entrepreneur on campus. He, full of dreams and ideals, passionate and kind-hearted…”

Song Qingqing was the most excited upon seeing the newspaper. It felt like star-chasing in real life, so she picked up the newspaper and read a few lines, looking very pleased.

Jian Chun originally didn’t want to read it, but the lines read by Song Qingqing piqued her curiosity. Eventually, she couldn’t resist opening the paper and meticulously read Jiang Qin’s news article three times. Her expression unconsciously drifted into a dreamy state, and her eyes shimmered with a touch of bright melancholy.

In the eyes of university students, the terms ‘interest’ and ‘honor’ are often seen as separate.

Interest is just that, and honor is another thing entirely; they should not be conflated.

Moreover, most students feel that honor is more important than interest, as their educational upbringing largely focuses on selfless dedication and the pursuit of honor.

Therefore, although Jiang Qin’s entrepreneurial success and financial gain are impressive, in the minds of university students, he was just slightly more capable, on par with the owner of a restaurant on South Street.

But Jiang Qin being featured in the newspaper, officially recognized and becoming a role model, that changes everything.

His image instantly becomes grander, his prestige instantly elevated.

Jian Chun and Song Qingqing have fundamentally different personalities. Song Qingqing values money, so the moment Jiang Qin appeared in a Bentley, he became her idol.

Jian Chun, coming from a well-off family, doesn’t worship money and has no concept of it, seeking higher spiritual aspirations.

At first, she thought Jiang Qin was frivolous. After the South Street incident, she saw him as a mature, stable, and reliable man. Now, having read this newspaper, Jiang Qin shone brilliantly in her eyes.

Usually, being featured in the campus newspaper is already a big deal, but Jiang Qin was in a bona fide city-level newspaper, which is incomparable.

“What does the ‘Work-Study Program’ mean?”

Jian Chun snapped out of her thoughts and explained to Pan Xiu, “It’s about providing part-time positions for impoverished students on campus.”

“Jiang Qin went to help the needy at the University of Science and Technology?” Pan Xiu was incredulous.

Jiang Tian couldn’t help but interject, “He’s been absent a lot recently. Probably he’s been going to the University of Science and Technology. This is a collaboration at the school level, which ordinary students can’t even participate in. But Jiang Qin not only participated but also initiated the project.”

“No wonder even the Linchuan Youth Daily came to interview him. Look at the photo, he’s arm in arm with the Youth League Secretary of the University of Science and Technology. It’s surreal.”

“It feels like Jiang Qin isn’t even living in the same world as us.”

“Looking back now, it’s unbelievable that he single-handedly started that sensational campus beauty contest.”

Listening to their conversation, Jian Chun’s gaze became distant again, her thoughts drifting back to the incident on South Street, feeling a sense of loss.

How did she, at the beginning of the semester, mistake such a dazzling man for a frivolous one?

It’s all Cao Guangyu’s fault for not signing that note!

Of course, it’s possible that he did sign it, and she simply didn’t notice.

Misunderstandings like these are common during student days and usually don’t become a source of lingering concerns. However, as Jiang Qin’s brilliance increasingly shone, the light he cast grew ever more intense. Under these circumstances, Jian Chun found it increasingly difficult to unravel her emotional knots.

Meanwhile, in boys’ dormitory 302, Cao Guangyu was also holding a newspaper, grinding his teeth in irritation.

The newspaper featured three photos: one of the entrepreneurial office, one of Jiang Qin with the head of the University of Science and Technology, and a solo shot of Jiang Qin himself, which seemed more imposing the more one looked at it.

As someone who prided himself on his swagger, Cao Guangyu was envious.

“Why does Jiang get such an awesome platform to show off?”

“He’s been so low-key in class lately because he’s been busy showing off in the newspapers, and he didn’t even include me!”

Zhou Chao, too, was staring at a copy of the newspaper, “Jiang’s photo, his posture and demeanor, are more mature than my dad.”

“I thought playing games and dating made my university life meaningful, but compared to Jiang, it’s nothing!” Ren Ziqiang couldn’t help feeling emotional.

After hearing this, Cao Guangyu looked up in disbelief, “We know you play games every day, but dating every day? Since when?”

Ren Ziqiang’s face changed: “…”

Zhou Chao laughed, “Isn’t it just your ‘dry sister’?”

“Mind your own business!”

Originally, the dorm had four single guys, and Ren Ziqiang didn’t feel too out of place. But ever since Cao Guangyu started dating and showing up with love bites, he always teased Ren Ziqiang, with Zhou Chao joining in, which was infuriating.

Ignoring them, Ren Ziqiang lay down and covered himself with a blanket, like an ostrich burying its head in the sand.

Avoidance might be shameful, but it works!

However, while some played the ostrich, others were busy worrying about others doing so, like Wang Huiru.

Now a Student Union member in the Law Department, she rushed to a meeting early in the morning. By chance, she saw a newspaper in the hands of a senior.

The headline read: “Young University Representative Jiang Qin Establishes a Website, Leading Over Thirty Students in Entrepreneurship, Promoting Work-Study at the University of Science and Technology.”

Wang Huiru’s mind buzzed in shock upon reading this, but after a moment, she quickly accepted this new reality.

She had known about Jiang Qin’s brilliance since summer break.

Just after the college entrance exams, while everyone was relaxing, Jiang Qin was busy with business, becoming a legendary figure by the time school started.

So, even though the newspaper’s story seemed fantastical, Wang Huiru found it believable, considering Jiang Qin’s performance over the summer. It would have been more surprising if he had remained unknown in university.

But then…

Wang Huiru suddenly thought of Chu Siqi and her expression changed. She thought, ‘I mustn’t let Siqi see this.’

Her former high school classmate was extremely talented, and Wang Huiru felt proud, but for Chu Siqi, the idea that someone she once liked and rejected had become so successful was a painful thought.

Did she have to pretend to be unaware again?

Wang Huiru felt like crying.

She had kept Jiang Qin and Feng Nanshu’s relationship a secret for three months, nearly driving herself mad. And now, it seemed, it was starting all over again. It was unbearable.

After the meeting, Wang Huiru returned to her dorm as if nothing had happened, only to be startled by the scene before her.

Chu Siqi was sitting on her bed, holding a copy of the Linchuan Youth Daily, staring at it intently, motionless for a long time.

Wang Huiru approached and saw a complex, indescribable expression on her friend’s face, not the defeat or melancholy she had expected.

“Siqi, you’re… reading the newspaper?”

“Yes.”

“Let’s not read it anymore. How about we go to the cafeteria for a meal?”

Chu Siqi turned to look at her, “Huiru, your acting is a bit unconvincing. I know there’s news about Jiang Qin in there.”

Caught off guard, Wang Huiru then relaxed, “So you knew already.”

“I’m working as a journalist in the broad education field. I was in charge of hosting the reporter from Linchuan Youth Daily during their visit. I followed the whole interview process with Jiang Qin, even went to his office.”

Listening to her friend’s calm, emotionless voice, Wang Huiru felt a chill. She couldn’t even begin to imagine such a scene.

Chu Siqi’s gaze drifted out the window, “Jiang Qin is so outstanding now. The more he shines, the more I feel unworthy of him. If only he weren’t so exceptional, if only he were just an ordinary university student, I wouldn’t have to regret so much.”

“It’s wrong to think like that. Jiang Qin’s excellence is due to his own efforts.”

“I understand that, but the more he shines, the worse it reflects on my judgment and taste.”

Wang Huiru didn’t know how to respond and just sat down on the bed, sinking into silence with her friend.

During this silence, she couldn’t help but recall a conversation she had with Yu Shasha during a graduation gathering. Yu Shasha had said it was unfortunate they attended the same university as Jiang Qin because his brilliance made all other men seem insignificant, making it hard to find someone they liked.

Wang Huiru hadn’t taken those words seriously then, but now they seemed to be coming true.

“Huiru.”

“Yes?”

“I also saw Feng Nanshu.”

Chu Siqi clenched her fists unconsciously, “At first, I couldn’t accept it, but thinking about it, someone as outstanding as Jiang Qin really does deserve her.”

Wang Huiru looked up, “Siqi, what you’re saying isn’t right.”

“What’s wrong about it?”

“Jiang Qin and Feng Nanshu didn’t become a couple because he’s outstanding. She has been with him through thick and thin, not attracted by his brilliance. You need to understand this sequence of events.”

Chu Siqi’s face paled, and she bit her lip in silence, her emotions complex.

“Let’s not think about it anymore. Let’s go eat.”

“Okay.”

Meanwhile, on the university forum, people were also discussing this news.

Those who knew Jiang Qin were accustomed to his achievements, so they weren’t too shocked. However, those unfamiliar with him were more agitated upon hearing the news.

Linchuan University had been encouraging entrepreneurship among students for years with little success. Hoping to inspire entrepreneurial spirit, the university uploaded the electronic version of the newspaper to its official website and course selection system.

This was how Jiang Qin’s previously unknown name suddenly came into everyone’s view.

“What’s Jiang Qin’s background?”

“Must be a rich second-generation, who else would dare to burn money on a website?”

“It’s unbelievable, not even November yet, and he’s made so much money?”

“Some of it might be exaggerated, but Linchuan Youth Daily is known for its seriousness, so it’s probably mostly true.”

“Creating a website makes this much money? Had I known, I’d have done it too. It doesn’t look that hard.”

“It’s indeed not hard. A computer science student can do it in a week. Our school probably exaggerated to set an example.”

A freshman in university, two and a half months into entrepreneurship, organizing a campus beauty contest, promoting work-study.

These keywords seemed too sensational, leading to numerous envious comments.

This was a normal phenomenon.

After all, since when was there such an extraordinary freshman?

Everyone’s life seemed similar to Ren Ziqiang’s description – apart from attending classes, they played games or dated. Now, suddenly, a freshman had made headlines for his entrepreneurial success and collaboration with another university, intensifying the sense of disparity.

Chapter 132: The Second Spring of the Market

TL: Etude

Early in the morning, Jiang Qin arrived at Room 208, where a copy of the Linchuan Youth Daily was already laid out on the table.

He skimmed through it quickly but didn’t pay much attention. After all, it contained answers he had given before, and re-reading them seemed pointless. So, he casually slipped the newspaper into his document bag.

“Maybe I should send it back home for my parents to see.”

He knew he had to inform his parents about his entrepreneurial venture sooner or later. In their eyes, the credibility of a newspaper would undoubtedly surpass his mere words. Everything was already printed in the newspaper, and his responses were positive and proactive. It would be hard for them not to believe it.

Jiang Qin pondered for a moment, suddenly curious about his parents’ reactions upon reading the newspaper.

Unfortunately, he couldn’t afford to leave now, as the situation at the University of Science and Technology had reached a critical stage.

Moreover, progress was also speeding up on Su Nai’s end, with the first trial run of the group buying venture scheduled for the end of the month.

Jiang Qin took a pen from the holder, wrote an address on the document bag, dropped it into the outgoing mail basket by the door, and then walked over to Su Nai, glancing at the screen full of code.

It looked professional, beyond his understanding.

“Don’t stand behind me, boss. I don’t know why, but it makes me anxious.”

Jiang Qin put on a stern boss’s face, “You don’t know why? Isn’t it because of your habit of looking at inappropriate stuff in the office?”

Su Nai retorted angrily, “At least I don’t look at feet every day!”

Jiang Qin’s expression changed, “You… you looked at my favorites?”

“No, but there are all these videos about silk stockings in your recommendations, both black and white. I can’t pretend not to see them.”

“Sometimes the website just recommends random stuff; it has nothing to do with my preferences!” Jiang Qin argued, his words firm.

Su Nai fell silent for a moment, “Boss, you should realize that I’m a programmer. I understand these website things better than you.”

“Look at how messy your desktop is. Can’t you keep it organized?”

“?????”

Jiang Qin skillfully diverted the topic, not showing any embarrassment. Instead, he reprimanded Su Nai and returned to his workstation, changing the password of his video site back to what it was before.

A thirty-eight-year-old man reborn couldn’t control everything with a snap of his fingers. Sometimes there were minor embarrassments and oversights, but it wasn’t a big deal.

…

In the afternoon, Su Nai updated Jiang Qin on her work.

The progress on the group buying website was mostly done, and it was estimated that testing could start in two weeks.

Additionally, she demonstrated some details that hadn’t been shown before, all of which met Jiang Qin’s requirements.

Su Nai’s greatest strength wasn’t her technical skills but her comprehension ability. Like with the group buying project, Jiang Qin’s plan wasn’t professionally written, yet Su Nai’s execution was of high quality. She was truly a gem of a technician.

He resolved to treat her better in the future.

Losing such an employee would make finding a replacement difficult.

Jiang Qin secretly reset the video website password, pretending as if nothing had happened.

Then, he opened Word and typed a line.

【Group Buying Website – Free Registration and Sales Commission Plan】

The promotion of the forum must continue. At the very least, they needed to capture the entire Linchuan University Town, solidifying it as a source of tangible traffic.

Currently, the campus beauty contest at the University of Science and Technology was in full swing, expected to conclude by the end of the month. Then it would move on to the Teachers College, the Polytechnic University, and so on.

So, the trial operation of the group buying venture was limited to Linchuan University for the time being.

After all, the traffic at Linchuan University had stabilized.

Once the results of the trial operation were out, it was expected that the users at the University of Science and Technology would have been largely retained. Then, they could expand the group buying service to that market, taking over the market of the University of Science and Technology.

“Things are a bit tight on time; some preparations need to be made in advance.”

As Jiang Qin pondered, he called Tan Qing over.

The current marketing team was short on manpower, with Tan Qing and Wei Lanlan bearing the brunt of the responsibilities. Wei Lanlan was mainly in charge of the business at the University of Science and Technology, while Tan Qing was responsible for Linchuan University.

Since the first trial field for the group buying venture was at Linchuan University, it was only logical to entrust Tan Qing with this task.

“Boss, what did you need to see me for?”

Tan Qing arrived, looking travel-worn with somewhat disheveled hair.

“Have you been out on the market?”

Jiang Qin pulled up a chair for her to sit and called someone to bring her a glass of water.

“Yes, I’ve been out and about lately. The advertising business around Linchuan University is almost saturated. I was thinking of expanding outward, but the results haven’t been great. On one hand, our forum’s advertising fees are relatively high, and smaller merchants simply don’t consider it. On the other hand, our forum’s advertising space is limited, so there’s not much room for negotiation. It’s not like Lanlan’s situation, where every deal she talks about is almost guaranteed…”

Tan Qing was somewhat uncomfortable but spoke very diplomatically, not revealing her true feelings.

Her main discomfort stemmed from the fact that the business around Linchuan University was not lacking but had almost reached a dead end.

Why?

Because those who wanted to advertise and had the means to do so had already been tapped. The remaining ones either couldn’t afford to advertise or simply weren’t interested.

But the marketing team didn’t have a base salary; they relied entirely on commissions. No business meant no income.

The reason Tan Qing had been out in the market herself was that she hadn’t closed a single deal recently and urgently needed new business to break the impasse.

In contrast, the situation for Wei Lanlan was very favorable.

Since the University of Science and Technology was a completely new market, all merchants were eager to try forum marketing, and closing deals was effortless.

She and Wei Lanlan were good friends, having joined 208 together from a part-time job society. Now, they were managing two different territories: one an exhausted old market and the other a completely untapped blue ocean. It was natural to feel some envy.

“Have a drink first,” Jiang Qin pointed to the glass of water in front of her.

Tan Qing took a sip and said, “I’m done drinking, boss. Please give me your instructions.”

“Actually, I called you here today to address the bottleneck you’re facing. Our forum’s main audience is college students, so expanding the market outward isn’t very realistic, at least not at this stage.”

Jiang Qin understood Tan Qing’s current mindset and appreciated her attitude.

Being left in an old battlefield, digging for low-quality clients, while a friend thrived in a new field, feasting on easy targets, yet seeing her own income dwindling, she didn’t give up. Instead, she tried even harder to expand outward. Such employees were rare.

“Boss, if we don’t expand outward, our business will come to a halt. I have a team to manage, and even if I don’t mind, they will.”

“The reason I called you here is to let you develop a completely new market.”

Tan Qing was stunned, feeling the surprise was too sudden, “Really?”

Jiang Qin nodded seriously, “I’m not joking.”

“Is it for the Polytechnic University or the Teachers College? I’ll start preparing right away!”

“Neither, it’s actually still Linchuan University.”

Tan Qing’s smile instantly turned into a frown. “Boss, I’ve been really anxious lately. Can you please not joke about this?”

Jiang Qin waved his hand dismissively, “As you said, the advertising space on the forum is limited and relatively expensive. This threshold has already blocked some potential clients, which isn’t good for future development. The best solution is to lower this threshold.”

“Do you mean to reduce the advertising rates? That could indeed attract a new group of merchants, but wouldn’t the merchants who have already paid complain?”

“No, I’m referring to the group buying website.”

“The one we discussed in the last meeting?”

“Exactly.”

Jiang Qin called Su Nai over and asked her to demonstrate the group buying website to Tan Qing once again.

Tan Qing was initially confused, but as the demonstration progressed, her eyes began to light up, and she gradually understood Jiang Qin’s intention.

“Boss, are you planning to invite all the nearby merchants to join this website?”

Jiang Qin nodded, “We will eventually integrate group buying directly into the forum, inviting merchants to join for free. This way, even small-scale merchants can get promotion, breathing new life into an already saturated market.”

“But how do we make money if the registration is free?” Tan Qing wondered.

Jiang Qin explained, “Registration is free, but we will take a small cut from each sale.”

Tan Qing pondered and then expressed her amazement, “Can we really do that?”

“Of course, but developing this market will definitely be challenging initially. Whether merchants will accept a commission agreement is the biggest hurdle. If I entrust this task to you, do you have the confidence to handle it?”

“I do, boss. I want to take this on!”

Tan Qing didn’t hesitate and immediately agreed.

Advertising rates were fixed, and the market’s sustainability was limited, just like at Linchuan University, where business had already reached its peak.

However, group buying was different. Since it offered free registration, the size of the merchant didn’t matter, effectively removing any entry barriers.

“Since you’re willing to do it, start with the pedestrian street. Your task for the next few days is to survey the willingness of the merchants there.”

“Can I directly reveal the group buying website?”

Jiang Qin thought for a moment, “My advice is not to negotiate in the name of the group buying website. It’s a new concept, and the unknown represents fear. It’s better to negotiate in the name of the forum. Many merchants from the pedestrian street asked about promotion prices during the campus beauty contest but gave up due to high costs. Start with them, tell them we now have an opportunity for free promotion, effective for two weeks. Ask if they’re willing to try.”

Tan Qing nodded thoughtfully, “Is the group buying website going live in two weeks?”

“It will start its trial operation in two weeks.”

Chapter 133: Her Lips Were Moist

TL: Etude

“Jiang Qin, time for a walk.”

A series of beeps suddenly rang out, and a silly tabby cat popped up from the bottom right corner of the computer screen.

Jiang Qin opened the chat window. The rich lady was so easy to satisfy, with just a stroll.

However, the Xi Tian branch had been open for two weeks now, and it was indeed time for the boss lady to show up, even if just to make her presence felt.

“Do you have class this afternoon?”

“No. No more classes.”

“Then change clothes and come downstairs, I’ll take you to the neighboring school for a walk.”

Upon receiving the message, Feng Nanshu immediately got out of bed, changed out of her pajamas, slipped her feet, encased in black stockings, into her shoes, and hurried to the balcony.

At that moment, the dormitory door opened, and Gao Wenhui, returning from fetching water, was holding a copy of Linchuan Youth Daily. She waved it at the little rich lady through the balcony window.

“Feng Nanshu, your man is in the newspaper, did you know? Everyone is talking about it outside. You know, he looks pretty handsome!”

Feng Nanshu was brushing her teeth, responded vaguely with a soft and gentle voice.

Gao Wenhui put down the thermos and came to the balcony, leaning on the door frame with one shoulder, and extended the newspaper towards Feng Nanshu: “Do you want to take a look? If you do, call me ‘sister.'”

“I’m going to meet the real thing.”

“?????”

Feng Nanshu tied her hair into a ponytail, revealing her long, fair neck, and hurried off the balcony. “Wenhui, I’ll bring you something delicious when I come back.”

“?”

Gao Wenhui was baffled, wondering what she had said right.

Meanwhile, after replying to the message, Jiang Qin stretched lazily, got up from the Entrepreneurship Center, and slowly drove towards the girls’ dormitory.

It was deep autumn now. A sanitation worker was sweeping the roadside with a broom. The leaves that had fallen the night before were quickly gathered into piles, then loaded into a vehicle and taken away, along with the autumn colors.

Jiang Qin arrived at the girls’ dormitory where the little rich lady was already waiting downstairs.

She wore a light cyan round-neck sweater, her skin luminous and delicate, her long, straight legs wrapped in thick black stockings. She stood under the maple tree near the dormitory building, staring blankly at the leaves fluttering down from mid-air.

“Little rich lady, get in the car.”

Jiang Qin called out, rolling down the window.

“Coming.”

Feng Nanshu obediently got into the passenger seat.

“Shall we go?”

“Just a moment.”

The little rich lady reached into the glove compartment, took out a lipstick, and applied a thin layer on her cherry-red lips.

Jiang Qin watched her movements, feeling a sinking sensation in his heart.

It was over, the things in the car weren’t left behind by the little rich lady by mistake, she had deliberately left them there!

Seeing Jiang Qin staring at her, Feng Nanshu’s eyes appeared somewhat confused. After a moment, as if she understood something, she obediently offered the lipstick to his lips.

The moist lipstick, having just glided over the little rich lady’s full, enticing lips, seemed to still carry a hint of her youthful fragrance.

She didn’t mind sharing the same lipstick with Jiang Qin, just as she didn’t mind sharing the same pair of chopsticks with him, even if they had just been in Jiang Qin’s mouth.

“I don’t need it, my lips are quite moist.”

Feng Nanshu quietly watched him: “My lips are the moistest.”

Jiang Qin felt that if another girl had said this, she would probably add a flirtatious “Don’t believe me? Try it.” But when Feng Nanshu said it, she was simply expressing that her lips were indeed very moist, quite straightforwardly, with a hint of competitiveness.

“How moist are your lips?” he couldn’t help but probe.

Feng Nanshu glanced at the row of words on the lipstick: “Moisturize my lips, move your heart.”

‘Heh, little temptress, digging at my heartstrings again, but my forty years of discipline can barely withstand it.’

Jiang Qin felt that the conversation was veering into strange territory and decided not to continue it. He stepped on the gas and drove out of Linchuan University, heading towards the University of Science and Technology.

Feng Nanshu was quite clingy to Jiang Qin, but she wouldn’t go out on her own, usually just accompanying Gao Wenhui around the campus.

Therefore, the outside world was a new realm for her, and as soon as they left Linchuan University, her eyes were filled with delight.

The branch manager, Fang Xiaoxuan, was happy to see the boss lady, as she felt it was the boss lady who had given her the opportunity to become a manager. She took Feng Nanshu around, introducing her to the business and the new products in the store. She even mentioned that she had managed to recreate the signature taro milk tea flavor using the recipe left by Gao Dawei, the previous owner.

Feng Nanshu seriously said she wanted to try it, looking like she was inspecting Fang Xiaoxuan’s work, but in reality, she was just craving it.

However, what really captivated the little rich lady wasn’t the taro-flavored milk tea, but the ice cream machine Gao Dawei had left behind.

Upon seeing it, she solemnly declared that this too needed to be tested.

“Boss lady, which flavor would you like to test?”

“Test them all,” Feng Nanshu said seriously.

Fang Xiaoxuan was about to start when Jiang Qin stopped her: “With this kind of weather, who eats three ice creams in one go?”

The little rich lady mumbled, “Then just a plain flavor, thank you.”

“Fang Xiaoxuan, make it a small one.”

“I wouldn’t dare, she’s the boss lady.”

Fang Xiaoxuan muttered as she made the ice cream, thinking to herself that it was fine for the couple to show off their affection, but why involve her, a mere employee? She wouldn’t dare refuse the boss lady’s request for ice cream.

Feng Nanshu’s eyes sparkled, seemingly happier than if she had gotten two ice creams.

While the little rich lady was focused on the ice cream making process, Jiang Qin made a call to Wei Lanlan, asking her to gather the marketing team. A group of nine people sat in the milk tea shop for a small meeting.

Wei Lanlan’s marketing team, newly established from the University of Science and Technology, consisted of experienced staff from Tan Qing’s side, poor students recruited by Jiang Qin, and ordinary college students recruited by Wei Lanlan, all unfamiliar faces to him.

“Boss, everyone is here,” Wei Lanlan announced.

Jiang Qin nodded, “Take a seat, everyone. Let’s have a brief meeting, nothing too serious, just to get acquainted since I don’t know much about you all.”

The group nodded, their expressions tense.

It was a somewhat peculiar situation.

Jiang Qin was eighteen, a freshman, while the others were mostly sophomores and juniors, older than him.

Yet, in Jiang Qin’s presence, they all felt an indescribable sense of pressure.

“Let’s start with self-introductions, beginning with Lai Cunqing,” Jiang Qin indicated the boy personally recruited by Director Hu.

Lai Cunqing immediately stood up: “My name is Lai Cunqing, a sophomore, majoring in Computer Science.”

“No need to stand, it’s just a casual chat, not a formal meeting. Next.”

“Sure, boss, I’m Chen Yali…”

“Boss, my name is Zhao Yingyi, I enjoy dancing and singing. With Sister Wei’s help, I closed a deal yesterday.”

“My name is Wang He…”

After a round of introductions, Jiang Qin nodded and then listened as they described their recent business activities.

At the University of Science and Technology, the market was entirely new, and the merchants were more proactive. Unlike the situation at Tan Qing’s end, they didn’t need to go out and seek businesses; instead, they just waited for advertisers to come to them.

For instance, Zhao Yingyi, who loved singing and dancing, secured a deal on her first day. She earned a commission and bonus of two hundred yuan from a twenty thousand yuan advertising contract.

However, the success of this deal was more due to the strong advertising desire of the merchant rather than Zhao Yingyi’s abilities.

Seeing Zhao Yingyi’s success, other team members were excited and optimistic about the future.

Nevertheless, as they were laying the groundwork for group buying, Jiang Qin still wanted them to go out more, not just to serve big-ticket advertisers.

Everyone knew that forum ads were lucrative and provided hefty commissions.

But the problem was that the University of Science and Technology would soon become another Linchuan University, and the advertising business would soon be saturated. What would the marketing team do then? Disband or just hang around?

That wasn’t realistic, especially considering the number of impoverished students in the team.

Hence, it was imperative to start engaging with small-scale merchants now, laying a solid foundation for group buying.

“Going forward, the marketing team’s work will be divided into two parts: one for dealing with advertisers and the other for collecting merchant information.”

“I know dealing with advertisers is more profitable, but we can’t just pick the big ones. So, I’m setting a new threshold for you.”

“Each person needs to visit five merchants daily, regardless of their size. This is a mandatory target.”

Hearing Jiang Qin’s directives, the team members nodded in agreement. After the meeting, Wei Lanlan couldn’t help asking, “Boss, Tan Qing’s team has also started visiting small merchants. Are we going to lower the advertising rates?”

“The rates won’t be lowered. This is just preparation for the group buying site. Pay attention to this as well, even if they can’t afford ads now, let them know about our upcoming free promotion plan.”

“Really free?”

Jiang Qin nodded, “Free to join, with revenue sharing. You can communicate more with Tan Qing to see how her team is doing it.”

Wei Lanlan nodded, “Okay, boss, I’ll talk to her once I’m done here.”

As she finished speaking, Jiang Qin’s phone vibrated. It was a call from Cao Guangyu: “Old Jiang, let’s have dinner tonight!”

“Are you treating?”

“Yes, I’ll bring my partner, and we can meet at Juxianlou.”

Hearing this, Jiang Qin joked, “Old Cao, you’re really splurging for love.”

“If we’re eating, it’s got to be good,” Cao Guangyu said proudly.

Jiang Qin glanced at Feng Nanshu, “Add one more seat, I’ll bring the little rich lady.”

“Sure, it’s not good for my partner to be the only girl there. Bring her along!”

Cao Guangyu’s dinner invitation was bound to be full of showing off, especially now that he had a girlfriend.

Jiang Qin didn’t want to be overwhelmed by Cao’s flamboyance, so he decided to bring the little rich lady to balance the atmosphere.

Chapter 134: Sweeter Than Milk Tea

TL: Etude

“Setting up our own delivery system is too troublesome,” one of them lamented.

“It’s more cost-effective to start with a cash-on-delivery settlement model,” another suggested.

“The combo punch of the forum can only reach Linchuan. Beyond that, the costs soar. We need to break out of our circle in advance.”

“Small-scale operations are manageable, but scaling up brings a host of problems.”

On a sunny and warm afternoon, as the store quieted down, the manager of Xi Tian, Fang Xiaoxuan, gazed through the glass window, her face filled with longing as she watched the shop owner and the boss lady sitting under the sunshade outside the door.

The owner was busy sketching and writing on a piece of paper, muttering to himself.

The boss lady, donning oversized sunglasses that concealed her face, lounged leisurely in a chair, her legs, clad in stockings, swinging gently.

After a while, she extended her milk tea cup to the owner for a sip.

A bit later, she offered it again for another sip.

Sometimes the owner would refuse, complaining it was too sweet. But the boss lady would insist, nudging the cup closer until he relented and took a sip.

“Ah, it’s even sweeter than the milk tea I make,” he commented.

Fang Xiaoxuan thought that the owner usually exhibited a seriousness and maturity far beyond his peers, unlike other college students. Whether in his gaze or tone, he lacked the youthful vitality and aspiration, instead possessing a depth and sharpness of an adult.

But whenever the boss lady was around, he would return to his normal state.

Indeed, it seemed that in this world, the only entity capable of taming such a creature as the owner was the boss lady.

“Let’s go, little rich lady, I’ll take you for a stroll.”

After a while, Jiang Qin put down his pen, neatly folded the paper, and stuffed it into his pocket, deciding to inspect room 502.

Feng Nanshu stood up to put on her shoes, only to feel her foot gently grasped by a warm hand. Before she knew it, one shoe was already on.

“Helping others is the source of happiness,” Jiang Qin murmured, adopting an air of a righteous gentleman. He earnestly held her other foot, clad in a stocking, massaging it briefly before helping her with the shoe.

“Done, let’s go!”

Feng Nanshu looked down at her shoes in confusion. “Jiang Qin, my shoelaces aren’t tied yet.”

“I don’t really know how to do that,” Jiang Qin admitted, spreading his hands in surrender.

“?”

Fang Xiaoxuan, watching from behind, slapped the doorframe in amusement, thinking to herself that the owner just wanted to touch the boss lady’s stocking-clad feet. Having taken the advantage, he should at least tie her shoelaces!

Arriving at the 502 room of the comprehensive building from Xi Tian Milk Tea Shop, they were greeted with the incessant clatter of keyboards, indicating a fervent working atmosphere.

Dong Wenhao was conducting a meeting with several group leaders, preparing for the crucial conversion phase to prevent a rapid decrease in active users after the event.

Everyone was busy with their tasks, with vibrant energy thoroughly permeating the room.

However, when Feng Nanshu entered with Jiang Qin, many couldn’t help but pause their work.

Many newcomers in the large tech team, recruited from the school, didn’t recognize Feng Nanshu, and some didn’t even know Jiang Qin.

At that moment, one thought crossed their minds.

Fuck, such a beautiful girl.

And when the “little rich lady” glanced over with an indifferent look, the thought transformed to: Fuck, such a cold and aloof girl.

It was only when the old staff enthusiastically greeted the “boss lady” that everyone realized who she was. They quickly averted their gaze, straightened their backs, and returned to their fervent work.

“The boss lady has brought milk tea for everyone. Someone will deliver it shortly. Wenhao, make sure to distribute it.”

After Jiang Qin entered the room, he called out.

“Alright, boss,” Dong Wenhao responded, thinking to himself that despite the boss’s frequent visits, they had never seen as much as a straw from him, let alone milk tea. It’s really all thanks to the boss lady.

Not long after, two college students working part-time under Fang Xiaoxuan arrived, carrying a large batch of milk tea.

The newcomers, sipping their milk tea, learned from the old team members’ gossip that the incredibly popular Xi Tian milk tea shop downstairs was owned by the boss lady.

Truly, exceptional people attract each other.

One was engaged in forum promotion, the other in making milk tea – a perfect pair, like heroes in martial arts tales!

“?!”

Feng Nanshu looked at the pile of milk tea somewhat bewilderedly. “I don’t recall offering them milk tea.”

“This is how you make your presence felt. Besides, I usually play the cool and aloof boss, a bit unapproachable. In the future, you’ll be responsible for generating goodwill. In their eyes, the boss lady and the boss are one and the same.”

Jiang Qin tried to explain, though he felt that the little rich lady probably didn’t understand.

As the promotion continued, the team would grow, especially in different campuses. Thus, a certain detachment would inevitably emerge.

Therefore, Jiang Qin had to maintain a somewhat cold and distant demeanor to have enough deterrent effect on the team.

But too much intimidation could dilute the sense of belonging, so occasional amiable gestures were necessary – a common tactic in business operations.

“Then I’ll have Xiaoxuan send over some ice cream too!”

The little rich lady didn’t quite understand, but her eyes lit up at the mention of ‘family.’ She took out her phone, ready to demonstrate the generosity of the boss lady.

“No, once is enough. Don’t imitate recklessly.”

Feng Nanshu looked at him somewhat puzzledly. “Should we do this daily?”

“Just this once. Doing it every day would be too presumptuous, wouldn’t it?”

After speaking, Jiang Qin approached Guo Zihang, who was intensely focused on his computer screen, typing away furiously. “Old Guo, how do you find the experience of working part-time on campus?”

“Stepfather, I feel like I’m doing well,” Guo Zihang replied enthusiastically.

“Really? Where do you think you’re excelling? Tell me about it.”

“I’m managing forum posts for you. I delete those that involve personal attacks and highlight the well-written ones. It feels like I have control over the campus discourse!”

Jiang Qin patted his shoulder. “This job is too important. Without you, this forum would surely collapse.”

Guo Zihang was taken aback. “Is it really that serious?”

“What’s important is confidence. Old Guo, you lack confidence. Don’t always go for the hard hits online. You need to bring that confidence into real life. When that senior handed you the milk tea, why didn’t you even say thank you?”

“I was hesitating whether to thank her or not, and then she left,” Guo Zihang regretted.

“Some things, if you hesitate, it’s too late. Here, practice now. Say thank you to the little rich lady who brought you the milk tea.”

Jiang Qin stepped back, revealing the cute girl behind him who had been following him with her gaze.

Guo Zihang felt that his stepfather was just teasing him today, but he had no proof. Yet, looking at the girl just a step away, he felt an unreal sensation.

He remembered how in high school, after lunch break, many boys would lean against the windows, watching a black car with wings slowly stop at the gate. Feng Nanshu would then enter the school under the brilliant sunlight, as cold and distant as the moon, walking straight through the campus without a sideways glance.

There would often be a breeze then, gently lifting her skirt.

That moment seemed to dazzle the years and tenderly touch the youth of many.

After Feng Nanshu crossed the campus and entered the teaching building, the bolder boys, pretending to go to the bathroom, would sneak extra glances, feeling immensely satisfied.

But Feng Nanshu never spared a glance for anyone, sitting quietly in her seat from the moment she entered the classroom until class started, and then following the black car as she left – mysterious and aloof.

That scene was a part of many people’s youth. Yet now, this pristine figure of youth, Feng Nanshu, obedient like a cat, her eyes constantly fixed on Jiang Qin, following him wherever he went.

Must be fiction… it felt too surreal.

Confidence…

Yes, perhaps what set him apart from his stepfather was just confidence.

“Thank you, student Feng.” (not disrespectfully lol)

“You’re welcome.”

Feng Nanshu replied with a distant coolness, instantly halving Guo Zihang’s newfound confidence.

No, maybe it wasn’t just confidence that he lacked compared to his stepfather.

Jiang Qin, witnessing Guo Zihang’s shrinking confidence, felt somewhat helpless. He thought that forging oneself required inner strength and hoped that one day Guo would find his. Then, he and the little rich lady left the comprehensive building and returned to their car.

His visit today didn’t have a specific purpose; it was simply to take Feng Nanshu out for a walk and to relax a bit. The effect seemed pretty good.

“Weren’t you happy when everyone said thank you? Why didn’t you react to Guo Zihang’s thanks?”

“He didn’t call me ‘boss lady,'” Feng Nanshu stated matter-of-factly.

Jiang Qin paused, “So, what you wanted to hear wasn’t ‘thank you,’ but ‘boss lady’?”

“Mhm.”

“Why?”

“I don’t know.”

Feng Nanshu’s voice was soft, her eyes sparkly.

…

In a flash, it was 8 o’clock in the evening. Cao Guangyu sent an address with two words: “Come quickly.”

Jiang Qin saw the words “Come quickly,” but his mind translated it into, “I can’t wait to show off!”

Ten minutes later, the black Audi arrived at Juxianlou.

Juxianlou was one of the more famous restaurants in Linchuan, with a pure Chinese-style decor. The entire place was adorned in an ancient charm. The entrance felt like stepping into a wealthy family’s courtyard, complete with an artificial stream and a realistic landscape tree. Behind it was a rockery constantly emitting mist, resembling the Peach Banquet of the Queen Mother of the West1. [1]

Jiang Qin had checked earlier; with an average spend of three hundred per person, it was quite a lavish affair for those times.

After getting out of the car, Feng Nanshu hurried to the restroom, while Jiang Qin entered the private room first.

Pushing open the door, he found Cao Guangyu seated in the central seat, a woman’s purse on the empty chair beside him. Ren Ziqiang and Zhou Chao looked overwhelmed and dazed, as if they couldn’t quite grasp the situation.

“Old Jiang, you’re here? Come sit!”

Jiang Qin sat next to Ren Ziqiang. “Old Cao, where’s your partner?”

Cao Guangyu’s face was full of spring: “She’s gone to order dishes, she’ll be back soon, hehe.”

“Have you all met her already?” Jiang Qin looked towards Ren Ziqiang.

Ren Ziqiang nodded. “You’d never guess. Old Cao’s partner is the same one who threatened to beat him up online. Damn, they managed to spark a romance through insults. I’ve never seen anything so absurd in my life!”

“?”

Chapter 135: Two Pairs of Men and Women Nourishing Each Other

TL: Etude

Cao Guangyu’s love story was full of twists and turns.

He started as a big V (popular online influencer) known for his controversial posts, which inevitably attracted countless trolls following each of his updates. It wasn’t exactly rallying a call to arms, but more akin to summoning a chorus of curses.

Among these, a user named “Three Characters” stood out as the ringleader of these haters.

Every comment was a veiled wish for family well-being, yet paradoxically hinted at life and death cycles.

Jiang Qin once helped Old Cao to check the backend data and discovered that this hater was extremely volatile, ready to confront anyone. Even if the Bull Demon King himself appeared, he would have been met with a barrage of invectives, ending up plowing the fields before daring to leave.

However, since Cao Guangyu shifted his focus to philanthropy after helping an elderly lady in South Street, he miraculously transformed his haters into supporters.

Now, if you ask on the forum who is the most handsome and wealthy guy at Linchuan University, five out of ten would name him, the Unremarkable Young Master Cao.

Recently, the lead hater unexpectedly proposed a face-to-face meeting, challenging that anyone who didn’t show up wasn’t a real man.

Old Cao, armed with a brick, went to the meeting, only to discover that his nemesis was actually a girl.

One thing led to another, and they ended up getting together.

After hearing this, Jiang Qin couldn’t help but exclaim in admiration, “Old Cao, it seems like your good deeds have paid off, bringing you unstoppable romantic luck.”

Cao Guangyu, unable to contain his laughter, replied, “Old Jiang, no matter what, you are my matchmaker. I should toast to you later. Where else could I find such sweet love?”

“Forget it, I’m driving, no alcohol for me. Let’s just toast with tea later.”

Jiang Qin poured himself a glass of water, “By the way, Old Cao, do you have a car? Have you ever experienced the thrill of driving around with a girl?”

“…”

Old Cao’s smile faded.

Zhou Chao and Ren Ziqiang immediately burst into laughter, finally seeing someone else getting a taste of their own medicine.

While they were talking, the door to the private room was suddenly pushed open, and a girl with short hair and big eyes walked in. She had a baby face, around 1.65 meters tall, wearing black overalls. It was the same figure Jiang Qin had seen by the lake that day.

As soon as the girl entered, she sat next to Old Cao, hugging his arm and affectionately calling him “brother.”

“Brother, I’ve ordered the dishes.”

“Brother, did you clean the chopsticks for me?”

“Brother, where’s my bag? Can you get my lipstick?”

Cao Guangyu was overjoyed with each “brother” she called, his chest almost bursting with pride, barely contained by his shirt.

Jiang Qin felt goosebumps hearing this, thinking to himself, could the online and real-world personas be this different?

Was this the same person who used to curse explosively online?

But something felt off.

Last time by the lake, Old Cao was as timid as a chick, completely dominated by this fierce yet cute girl. Today’s atmosphere seemed unexpectedly different.

“Old Jiang, let me introduce you. This is my girlfriend, Ding Xue, a medical student in her third year.”

“Ding Xue, this is my roommate, Jiang Qin.”

Ding Xue glanced at Jiang Qin, her expression subtly changing, “Oh, are you that startup star from the newspapers?”

Jiang Qin nonchalantly waved it off, “No, I just bear a slight resemblance to that handsome guy.”

Cao Guangyu’s brow furrowed slightly, “Old Jiang, we’re all family here. There’s no need to hide things!”

“?”

After hearing this, Jiang Qin’s mouth twisted in amusement, thinking to himself how well Old Cao played his role, making it seem as if he was the one in charge, as if Cao Guangyu was the real boss behind Zhihu.

“Brother Cao is right, I am Jiang Qin,” Jiang Qin conceded, giving Old Cao some face.

Cao Guangyu sent him a grateful look, showing brotherly appreciation.

Afterward, Old Cao and Ding Xue began to display their affection openly – holding hands, leaning on each other, and sharing drinks – creating a scene so sweet it was almost unbearable.

Jiang Qin watched in awe.

“Old Jiang, does it make your skin crawl? Hehe, me too!”

“I’ll tell you, Old Zhou and I came half an hour early and have been enduring this for the entire time, nearly suffocated by their lovey-dovey act.”

“We’re all single here; nobody can escape. You might as well enjoy a bit of this ‘nourishment’ yourself.”

Ren Ziqiang seemed to revel in the situation, his eyes almost squeezing his eyebrows together.

But then, the door of the private room suddenly opened, and Feng Nanshu stepped in, gracefully sitting next to Jiang Qin.

Imitating the haughty demeanor of a little rich lady, Jiang Qin glanced back at Ren Ziqiang, whose smile froze on his face before gradually fading as he lowered his head to silently drink water.

“Jiang Qin, your shoelace is untied.”

Feng Nanshu crisply pointed out, then slightly stunned, pushed back her chair and crouched down.

Knowing what she was about to do, Jiang Qin reached out to stop her, feeling her skin, soft as white jade.

“Old Jiang, does Feng Nanshu always tie your shoelaces for you?”

Ren Ziqiang was astounded. Feng Nanshu, a goddess-like figure, willing to tie Jiang Qin’s shoelaces, seemed utterly surreal.

“Jiang Qin isn’t very good at tying them, but I am.”

Before Jiang Qin could respond, Feng Nanshu’s voice came from under the table, laced with a hint of confidence.

Cao Guangyu, watching from the side, gritted his teeth in frustration, thinking, “I spent nearly two thousand yuan to set up this dinner, and yet, before I could really enjoy it, I’m constantly outshone by Old Jiang.”

“No need to tie them, it’s more comfortable untied.”

Jiang Qin stopped her from tying his shoelaces and helped her up from under the table. The warm, orange light made her uplifted face appear even more fair and smooth, captivating at first glance.

Having a girl who remembers every word you’ve said and deeply believes in them is just absurd.

Once Feng Nanshu was seated again, Ding Xue looked at her, slightly dazed, “Fuck, this girl is so beautiful!”

“Uh… I mean, this classmate looks really pretty.”

“…”

Jiang Qin immediately gave a thumbs up, thinking, “Yes, this is the real character of Old Cao’s girlfriend. Was she just playing a different tune earlier?”

The meal that followed was indeed “lively.”

Ding Xue in her coquettish tone said, “Brother, the pickled pepper fish skin is delicious.”

Cao Guangyu immediately picked up a piece with his chopsticks and gently fed it to her, then teasingly raised an eyebrow at Ren Ziqiang and Zhou Chao.

Feng Nanshu quickly learned the game, turning to Jiang Qin, “Brother, the braised pork with preserved vegetables is delicious.”

Jiang Qin, trembling slightly, fed her a piece without a word. She only took a small bite, leaving the rest for Jiang Qin.

Not to be outdone, Ding Xue continued in her coquettish tone, “Brother, the boiled fish is delicious, get one for your sister.”

Feng Nanshu followed suit, her eyes brimming with water, “Brother, the sour soup beef is delicious, get one for your sister.”

Ren Ziqiang, sitting aside, was dumbfounded, thinking, “What am I even doing here? I might as well have rotted in the dorm!”

He gulped down his beer in one go, then turned to look at Zhou Chao, only to find that his expression was not as tormented as his own; in fact, Zhou was enjoying his meal.

“Old Zhou, haven’t you been ‘nourished’?” Ren Ziqiang asked, puzzled.

“I have, but I have two passions in life: one is to take advantage, and the other is to date. Taking advantage comes first. If you treat me to a meal at Juxianlou, I’m fine with any ‘nourishment,’ even directly to my face.”

Zhou Chao appeared completely unfazed as he continued eating heartily.

In no time, the luxurious meal was devoured by the group. Unnoticed, Cao Guangyu had stealthily untied his shoelaces. He then coughed to draw everyone’s attention and arrogantly announced, “Ding Xue, my shoelace is undone.”

Ding Xue fell silent for a moment before suddenly grabbing Cao Guangyu’s collar, “Let me tell you, I’ve been holding back all night to save face in front of your friends. And now you want me to tie your shoelaces?”

“…”

Zhou Chao, who was drinking beer, almost spewed it out through his nose upon hearing this.

Regrettably, Ren Ziqiang, absorbed in his own misery, didn’t catch this moment, or he might have found some solace. Love isn’t always sweet; sometimes it’s spicy too.

“I’m going to the restroom; you guys continue eating.”

Jiang Qin got up and left, with Feng Nanshu’s gaze following him, but she dropped the idea of accompanying him upon hearing ‘restroom.’

After using the restroom, Jiang Qin bent over the sink to wash his hands. Suddenly, in the mirror, he saw a familiar yet distant face, expressionless and wiping her mouth with a tissue. Her reddened eyes suggested she might have just vomited.

“What a coincidence, junior.”

Jiang Qin shook the water off his hands, “Senior Ye, are you here for dinner?”

Ye Ziqing nodded, “I have a business engagement.”

“You really are a powerful woman, senior. What are you busy with these days?”

“Just family business, nothing special. I’m just helping out, passing time every day.”

Hearing this, Jiang Qin felt envious, casually mentioning ‘family business’ like a true rich second-generation. He thought that he’d never have the chance to use those words in his life, except maybe if he had a child.

Huh?

Jiang Qin glanced at his reflection in the mirror, feeling a bit estranged.

“I don’t even date, and I’m already thinking about having kids?”

“Junior, what’s wrong?”

“Nothing, just got dazzled by the handsome face in the mirror.”

“…”

Ye Ziqing’s lips twitched slightly, finding this junior too unserious to continue the conversation.

Strangely, she and Jiang Qin had only met once before, outside room 208. Although they had exchanged a few words, it didn’t leave much of an impression.

Such an acquaintance was almost as insignificant as randomly sharing an elevator during a commute. Normally, she would pretend not to recognize such a person and quickly leave.

But for some reason, she had unexpectedly greeted him this time. Upon reflection, she thought it might be due to their similar experiences.

Jiang Qin, too, started his business in his first year, using the same room 208 she had once used.

Ye Ziqing saw in the mirror the ambition in Jiang Qin’s eyes, the same ambition she once had but had somehow lost along the way.

Who wouldn’t be tempted to greet a younger version of themselves?

Jiang Qin noticed Ye Ziqing’s dazed expression, “Did the handsome guy in the mirror dazzle you too?”

“It’s just the alcohol, making my head a bit unclear,” Ye Ziqing smiled lightly, “I’ve seen your forum. It’s pretty good.”

“Just messing around. It’s a headache to monetize, and I don’t even feel like doing it anymore.”

Chapter 136: Holding Hands as Friends

TL: Etude

Ye Ziqing was slightly startled when she heard Jiang Qin’s response.

To be honest, her compliment just now was merely a casual politeness.

Strictly speaking, the phrase “pretty good” sounded more like an encouragement from a senior to a junior, similar to how people in society often tell their younger siblings to study hard, so they can enjoy a life like theirs, working in an air-conditioned office, owning a house in the city, and driving their own car.

Ordinary college students would at least express gratitude upon hearing this, if not feel thankful.

However, what Ye Ziqing didn’t expect was that Jiang Qin showed no excitement of being praised by a senior. Instead, he kept complaining about his financial struggles.

“You’re still in the development phase. Thinking about monetization too early might limit your future directions. Adjusting your development strategy for the sake of profit is not a wise choice.”

Jiang Qin laughed: “I don’t have any development strategy. I’m just messing around. I myself have no idea what this forum will turn into eventually.”

Ye Ziqing was slightly taken aback: “You… just want to make a quick buck?”

“I obviously want to expand it if I can. I’m not stupid. The bigger it gets, the more I can earn.”

“Then you shouldn’t focus on monetization. Promoting it externally is the right way.”

“I don’t have money, senior sister. I have to support four teams and two marketing groups. I can’t survive on ideals alone.”

Jiang Qin’s point was simple: If he didn’t consider monetization from the start, the hundred thousand or so in his possession wouldn’t last until the end of the year.

Not everyone comes from a wealthy family background. For someone like him, who dares to start a business with just a little money, every step must be taken cautiously, focusing on sustainable development.

“Everyone has their own ideas. I wish you good luck then.”

“Thank you, senior sister. When I make it big, I hope to have the opportunity to treat you to a meal.”

Ye Ziqing didn’t say anything but smiled slightly and left the restroom.

She thought Jiang Qin’s vision was somewhat short-sighted, similar to many speculators, only wanting to make a quick buck.

People like him could definitely make a quick profit in the short term, but to grow and strengthen, he might not even qualify to enter the arena.

Jiang Qin dried his hands, threw the paper towel into the trash bin, and muttered to himself in the mirror, “Why not eat minced meat?”

Damn it, I need money to buy meat too.

When he returned to the private room, the five people inside were already packing up to leave. Old Cao and Ding Xue were still clinging to each other, arm in arm, shoulder to shoulder, which made Feng Nanshu stare in a daze until Jiang Qin snapped her out of it.

“Have you eaten enough? It’s time to leave.”

“Yes, I have.”

Feng Nanshu followed quickly, walking behind Jiang Qin from the inside to the outside.

In 2008, Linchuan was in the middle to late stages of rapid development, giving the entire city a somewhat conspicuous patchwork appearance. In less busy areas, small shops along the streets still preferred signs with red, blue, and white as the main colors. But as you reached the pedestrian street, the various brightly colored neon lights were somewhat dazzling.

The city center was bustling with people. In the distance, the cranes under the night sky stood tall, blending the surreal with reality in a unique way.

“Brother, it’s cold.”

Hearing this coquettish voice, Ren Ziqiang and Zhou Chao both shuddered, then saw Cao Guangyu taking off his jacket and draping it over Ding Xue.

But that wasn’t all.

After doing this, Cao Guangyu also turned back to glance at Jiang Qin, his eyes somewhat provocative.

He was feeling a bit overconfident now. Merely outdoing Ren Ziqiang and Zhou Chao was no longer satisfying for him; he was always eager to outdo Jiang Qin.

Moreover, Jiang Qin was wearing a black hoodie today, which he obviously couldn’t take off. This was also why Old Cao targeted this point.

“Heh.”

Jiang Qin let out a cold laugh, reached for his car keys, opened the trunk, and to Old Cao’s astonishment, he took out a coat and handed it to the thinly dressed little rich lady.

Feng Nanshu glanced at Jiang Qin: “Please help me put it on.”

“No, put it on yourself.” Jiang Qin decisively refused.

Feng Nanshu pursed her lips: “Brother, it’s cold.”

Jiang Qin surrendered and reluctantly helped her put on the coat, thinking that he should avoid going out with Cao Guangyu and his partner in the future. This one meal had taught Feng Nanshu more tricks than she had learned in the past eighteen years.

And what about Old Cao? He had never been in love before, so how come he was so naturally adept at all these annoying tactics?

Ren Ziqiang watched them, feeling bitter inside, thinking to himself that he had neither a car nor a girlfriend, making his life seem particularly hard.

Then there was Zhou Chao. Although he looked envious, he was happily belching, content with the lavish meal.

This just showed the difference between people.

Old Zhou, although he also wanted a partner, wasn’t as desperate as Ren Ziqiang. Even if he saw others flaunting their happiness, he could still find immense pleasure in a small meal worth a couple of thousand.

But Ren Ziqiang was different. Seeing Cao Guangyu and Ding Xue, Jiang Qin and Feng Nanshu, and then thinking about his platonic friendship with Pan Xiu, he felt so upset he couldn’t even eat.

Now, as the gathering dispersed, he realized he was still single and didn’t even have the simple joy of a full stomach like Zhou Chao.

People always chase after higher goals, forgetting what’s in front of them. When they miss out on the present, they realize they haven’t achieved their higher goals, nor have they retained what was right in front of them.

“It’s only nine o’clock now. Where shall we go?”

“Let’s take a walk in the park across the street. It’ll help digest the food, and I’m too full to sleep right now.” Jiang Qin pointed to the Huancheng Park across the street.

Cao Guangyu agreed, as no one in a new relationship would want to just go back to the dorm to sleep: “Sounds good. Ding Xue and I would like to stroll a bit more.”

“Let’s go, then.”

Ren Ziqiang hesitated: “It would be nice to go back to the dorm to sleep.”

Zhou Chao patted his shoulder from behind: “If Pan Xiu was here with you, would you still think the same?”

“Old Zhou, don’t beat around the bush with me. You don’t even know where your ‘swallow’ has flown off to!”

“If she’s flown away, I’ll give up and find another. Not like you, clinging to Pan Xiu.”

The six of them crossed the road one after the other, then plunged into the park. Walking on the pebble-studded path, they felt a comforting sensation under their feet, far better than any foot massage.

Cao Guangyu and Ding Xue were leading the way, reminiscing about the time when they first met.

“Do you remember the first time you commented on my post? You just blurted out, damn, you’re so cute.”

Ding Xue remembered. She said that when she first saw his exaggerated post, she was itching to scold him, but then seeing him helping the old lady with a post, she thought he wasn’t all bad.

“Old Jiang, how did you meet Feng Nanshu?”

Jiang Qin thought, go to hell. If you want to show off, just do it. Why drag us into playing a couple’s role?

Feng Nanshu softly spoke up: “I was reading in the library, and he kicked me.”

“Damn, Jiang Qin, your flirting tactics are so sophisticated!”

After the meal, Ding Xue had gotten quite familiar with them, casually throwing out slang.

Jiang Qin, mimicking the little rich lady, put on an expressionless face and said: “I was too engrossed in reading and didn’t notice, but later I bought a drink as an apology.”

“And then?”

“Then we became friends.”

“And after that, things naturally progressed?”

Jiang Qin’s eyebrows shot up at this: “Progress what? After that, we became lifelong friends!”

“That’s strange…”

Ding Xue whispered into Cao Guangyu’s ear: “Aren’t they dating?”

Cao Guangyu shook his head: “I don’t know what’s up with Jiang Qin. When school started, he was always ranting about not dating. Now he talks about it less.”

“Enough, stop it. Ren Ziqiang is already overwhelmed with all this flaunting. Let’s just walk in peace. Have you ever considered the feelings of us single folks?” Jiang Qin interrupted their whispering.

Ren Ziqiang felt somewhat grateful: “Brother Jiang still cares about me.”

But though they stopped talking, Old Cao and his partner had other ways to show off.

For instance, halfway through their walk, they suddenly discovered a small pond on the east side. The tranquil water mirrored the bright moon in the sky, perfectly described by the phrase “lotus pond under the moonlight.”

Ding Xue was immediately intrigued and insisted on walking around the edge of the pond. It was quite dark, and fearing she might accidentally step into the water, she asked Cao Guangyu to hold her hand from below.

“Damn, this works too?”

“Think they’re in a soap opera? Have they considered our feelings?”

Zhou Chao and Ren Ziqiang were sour with envy, but their comments only invited Cao Guangyu’s defiant gaze.

However, the couple’s moonlit stroll by the pond was indeed romantic, no wonder it infuriated the two.

Even Feng Nanshu couldn’t help but raise her face and quietly glance at Jiang Qin.

But Jiang Qin, busy joining Zhou and Ren in their criticism and showing disdain for Old Cao’s couple, paid no attention to her.

The little rich lady, after a moment of silence, cautiously stepped towards the pond, following behind Ding Xue with light steps.

The autumn night breeze was cool, slightly rippling the surface of the pond.

Focused on her toes, she carefully moved forward. Suddenly, Ding Xue ahead of her staggered a bit, startling her and causing her to lose her balance as well.

In her panic, Feng Nanshu suddenly felt her hand being grasped and then tightly held, a warm and reassuring sensation.

Turning her head, she saw Jiang Qin had come to her side, one hand holding hers and the other spread out behind her.

“Don’t fall in, it’s deep. Better get down.”

“I want to play a bit longer.” Feng Nanshu’s eyes sparkled.

Jiang Qin didn’t speak, but he didn’t let go either, leading the little rich lady forward with her delicate hand in his.

Cao Guangyu looked back, his face dripping with sarcasm: “What happened to just being friends? You sly dog!”

“We’re not interlocking fingers. Even if Buddha asks, we’re just friends!”

Jiang Qin chuckled, striding forward with the little rich lady, her soft, tender hand in his grasp, and her eyes filled with delight.

Ren Ziqiang watched this scene as if struck by lightning, thinking, Brother Jiang, you turned traitor too quickly!

Chapter 137: The Trick Has Been Copied

TL: Etude

“My car can only fit five people, so I suggest Ding Xue leave Old Cao behind.”

“I wholeheartedly agree!”

“I concur!”

After leaving the park, Jiang Qin’s remark garnered Zhou Chao’s enthusiastic agreement, while Ren Ziqiang nodded vigorously like a wolf dog, seemingly driven mad by dog food.

“You’re just sour grapes because you can’t have it!”

Cao Guangyu, with a lofty spirit, extended his left hand, hailed a taxi, and quickly pulled Ding Xue inside with him.

“Brothers are like clothes, and women like limbs, huh? Shameless, I despise people like that the most!”

Jiang Qin spat disdainfully, summoning his companions to the car and driving off into the night towards the school.

When the car arrived at the girls’ dormitory, the wealthy girl suddenly remembered to bring some snacks for Gao Wenhui, so she asked Jiang Qin to take her to the supermarket.

Jiang Qin, unaware that the snacks were for Gao Wenhui and not wanting Feng Nanshu to eat too many snacks, sternly refused.

“Snacking at night will make you gain weight. I’ll take you to buy some tomorrow.”

“Brother, buy it.”

“…”

“Sorry, I am impartial and fair.”

Zhou Chao and Ren Ziqiang nodded in agreement from the back, thinking to themselves that Jiang Qin was different from Old Cao, bright and upright, fearless in the face of power. Little did they expect Jiang Qin to suddenly turn around and, with impartial fairness, order them to get out and walk back to the dormitory.

“What’s the difference between these two dogs? Old Zhou, write down today’s details. When we find our own partners, we’ll do exactly the same.”

Zhou Chao looked at him in surprise: “Exactly the same?”

“Yes, an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth!” Ren Ziqiang said through gritted teeth.

“Do you have an Audi?”

Ren Ziqiang’s face stiffened: “I don’t have one…”

Zhou Chao coughed: “Forget the Audi, it’s unrealistic, but could you afford to spend two thousand at Juxianlou?”

“Damn it, stop talking!”

Ren Ziqiang covered Zhou Chao’s mouth with his hand, and the two scuffled all the way back to the dormitory, kicking and wrestling each other until they were exhausted. Zhou Chao was slightly better off, feeling well-digested, while Ren Ziqiang felt as if he hadn’t eaten anything, merely enduring the ordeal.

Meanwhile, Jiang Qin lifted the curtain and led Feng Nanshu into the brightly lit college supermarket.

After the campus beauty contest, the supermarket’s customer flow had halved, as more people gathered towards the front plaza.

Jiang Qin’s first impression upon entering was the decreased crowding.

The last time he brought the wealthy girl here, it was not like this. They bought a rainbow cotton candy, and when they left, they were almost squashed into sugar cakes.

However, as Feng Nanshu began her shopping spree, Jiang Qin’s attention was suddenly drawn to a milk tea cup at the store’s milk tea bar, inscribed with the words “Star of Learning.”

“?”

Jiang Qin picked up a cup, examining it closely.

The design was simple and clean, with only a few decorative elements, appearing quite sophisticated.

But what attracted him wasn’t the sophisticated design, nor the words “Star of Learning,” but the fact that the milk tea cup, in size and style, was exactly like the ones used by Xi Tian during promotions. The only difference was that Xi Tian’s cups bore the names of campus beauties, while the college supermarket’s cups bore titles.

Besides “Star of Learning,” there were titles like “Outstanding Student” and “Learning Model.”

“There’s something interesting here…”

Jiang Qin put the milk tea cup back, pondered thoughtfully for a while, and then led Feng Nanshu to pay for their purchases.

Back in the dormitory, Jiang Qin found room 302 unusually quiet, but everyone’s silence was different.

Cao Guangyu was lying on the bed texting with Ding Xue, his face full of joy.

Zhou Chao, shirtless, leaned against the wall, engrossed in a thick pirated web novel.

Ren Ziqiang sat on his bed, leaning against the corner, one leg stretched out, the other bent, his left hand resting on the bent knee, his eyes deep and introspective.

His expression resembled a scene from “God of Cookery” where Stephen Chow realizes the poignant beauty of his culinary art, looking quite intimidating.

“I’ve decided, I’m giving up on Pan Xiu!”

After a while, Ren Ziqiang suddenly shouted, feeling a bit tearful after the declaration.

Since becoming sworn siblings with Pan Xiu, he had always felt happy, as she would call him brother and sometimes there was slight physical contact.

But after seeing the relationships of Jiang Qin with Feng Nanshu, and Cao Guangyu with Ding Xue, he realized that love isn’t about taking advantage in status and titles, but about having a place in the other’s heart.

“I’m serious this time, and I’m going to tell Pan Xiu now, we should stop contacting each other,” Ren Ziqiang said decisively.

Jiang Qin couldn’t help but cough: “Ren, there’s something I need to tell you. It’s up to you to listen.”

Ren Ziqiang momentarily put down his phone: “What is it?”

“True departure is never announced with great fanfare, but happens quietly.”

“Jiang, are you saying that I should decide to leave on my own, without telling her?”

Jiang Qin gave a thumbs up: “With such great understanding, are you still afraid of ending up like me, unable to find someone?”

Ren Ziqiang’s mouth twitched: “Are you even speaking human language? You were practically showing off on my face tonight!”

“What’s important is, if you can avoid contacting Pan Xiu for three days, Old Cao might get his girlfriend to introduce someone to you.”

Cao Guangyu suddenly sat up: “Actually, there are several single girls in Ding Xue’s dorm.”

Ren Ziqiang’s eyes lit up: “Really? Then it’s settled.”

“If you can do it, nothing is impossible.”

“Great, I’ll take a cold shower to celebrate the new me!”

Jiang Qin watched Ren Ziqiang with amusement. He didn’t care if Ren could actually hold back; it was just a casual suggestion. He had plenty of things to deal with himself. As for his roommates’ love lives, he left them to their own devices. Those who should wake up will do so in time, and those who don’t want to can’t be roused by calling.

He jumped into bed, set an alarm, sneakily placed it under Zhou Chao’s pillow, and covered himself with the blanket to sleep.

The next day, it wasn’t Jiang Qin’s alarm that woke Zhou Chao, but an unexpected phone call.

Jiang Qin was sleeping soundly when he patted Zhou Chao: “Old Zhou, your phone is ringing, it’s annoying!”

“Damn, that’s clearly your phone!”

“?”

Jiang Qin then opened his eyes, apologized, and pressed the answer button.

“Boss, you need to come to the college supermarket, someone is copying our competition and even replicated our combo!”

“?”

Half an hour later, Jiang Qin arrived at College Road. Part of the staff of Room 208 were gathered at the roadside, including Su Nai, Wei Lanlan, Tan Qing, Wen Jinrui, and Lu Xuemei… A group of about a dozen people all looking seriously across the street, whispering among themselves.

Jiang Qin walked forward, following their gaze.

The two trees that previously hung the campus beauty contest banner were now tied with wires, displaying a new banner for the “Star of Learning” competition.

Additionally, a huge PVC board stood at the entrance of the college supermarket, displaying the “Star of Learning” rankings. The event was organized by Linchuan Campus Forum, with the college supermarket as the main sponsor.

Lastly, he noticed the sponsorship of Tongxing Driving School, offering half-price driving lessons for the top twenty contestants.

Moreover, the banner declared it as the first independently established award at Linchuan University, sounding quite impressive.

Damn, this imitation feels so strong, doesn’t it?

Jiang Qin couldn’t help but recall the milk tea cup he saw last night at the college supermarket. He had his suspicions then, but never imagined that by the time he woke up, it would become reality.

“Boss, look, isn’t this exactly like our campus beauty contest? It’s a blatant rip-off!”

Upon seeing Jiang Qin, Su Nai immediately felt reassured and started complaining vociferously.

“Boss, the ranking board was designed by my master. Except for their own logo, they’ve copied everything else exactly as it is.”

Lu Xuemei also looked furious, her eyes as if ready to bite.

“Don’t worry, let’s go across the street and see for ourselves.”

Jiang Qin waved his hand, leading his team to the entrance of the college supermarket, carefully examining the competition rules written under the leaderboard.

As expected, the rules of the “Star of Learning” event were exactly the same as the campus beauty contest. It was also a voting election, with the winners becoming the permanent design on the college supermarket’s milk tea cups.

Moreover, the college supermarket, following Xi Tian’s model, launched limited edition milk tea cups for the “Star of Learning,” “Outstanding Students,” and “Learning Models.”

“This is really bizarre, even a mirror couldn’t be this clear.”

As Jiang Qin was muttering to himself, two people came out of the college supermarket.

One was Niu Shangtian, the manager of Tongxing Driving School, who had approached Jiang Qin to organize a campus hunk contest but was rejected and then sponsored the “Star of Learning” contest.

The other was a woman in her thirties, dressed in a blue suit and high heels that clicked loudly.

The two were laughing and talking as they came out of the supermarket, stopping in surprise upon seeing Jiang Qin and the 208 team.

“Mr. Jiang, long time no see!”

Niu Shangtian was the first to recover, greeting Jiang Qin without a change in expression.

“Indeed, long time no see, Mr. Niu. I thought you had ascended to heaven.”

Jiang Qin grinned brightly, as if seeing a relative.

“Ha ha ha, Mr. Jiang, you’re always so humorous. Let me introduce you, this is Jiang Zhihua, the owner of the college supermarket, Ms. Jiang.”

Jiang Zhihua sized up Jiang Qin with a disrespectful gaze: “So you’re Jiang Qin, quite impressive. In just one month, you revitalized the front plaza, almost driving my business to closure.”

Jiang Qin modestly replied: “Ms. Jiang, you’re too kind. I’m also not sure why I’m so outstanding.”

“…”

At the mention of ‘Auntie’, Jiang Zhihua’s face instantly changed.

Which woman could accept such a title?

She was about to retort when Niu Shangtian intervened: “He’s only eighteen, calling you ‘auntie’ isn’t really inappropriate.”

Jiang Zhihua then realized that the newspapers had mentioned this youngster was a freshman.

Revitalizing a campus commercial area in a month at the age of eighteen? Too abstract, right?

Despite her disbelief, Jiang Zhihua, who had been in business for many years, quickly regained her composure, showing a smile: “Jiang Qin, aren’t you the best at organizing events? Come, see how well we’ve done with this one?”

“Pretty good.”

“I think so too. Here in college, studying is the most important thing, far more valuable than any campus beauty or hunk title.”

Jiang Zhihua’s words essentially meant, “Look, if you can do it, so can I, even better than yours, and you can’t do anything about it. I love the look of you being annoyed but helpless.”

Then the two walked away, still talking and laughing, Jiang Zhihua’s laughter seemingly directed at them.

Jiang Qin fell silent, not speaking for three minutes.

Seeing this, Su Nai and others held their breath, thinking that the boss would surely explode, wondering whether they should stop him or help if he stormed into the college supermarket.

To their surprise, Jiang Qin’s next words made their jaws drop.

“That’s it?”

“Damn, I thought they would pour boiling water on my money tree, scared me to death!”

Jiang Qin took out his phone and opened the school’s official forum: “The ‘Star of Learning’ sounds impressive, I’m going to participate, I want to win a ‘Star of Learning’ too!”

Chapter 138: Panic at Linchuan Forum

TL: Etude

“The boss, why did you do that? They were clearly mocking us just now, and yet you’re still participating in their event?”

“Let’s not talk about this on the street. We’ll discuss it when we get back.”

Jiang Qin stopped everyone’s complaints, waved his hand, and led the 208 team back from the college supermarket to the Entrepreneurship Center.

The autumn chill was in full swing these days. With the windows open in Room 208, the temperature felt even colder than in the hallway.

Everyone returned to their workstations, ready to hear the boss’s plan for a counter-attack.

“Damn it, they copied the event we worked so hard to create, reaping the fruits of our labor, and they’re so arrogant about it. How can anyone tolerate this?

You should know, during the first campus beauty contest, many team members stayed up late preparing.

Especially Dong Wenhao, Pang Hai, and Lu Xuemei from the east campus. It was inconvenient for them to commute, so sometimes they just slept in the office to revise the drafts.

And here comes Linchuan Forum, just taking our idea and using it without any respect for the law.

Su Nai was still furious, even her movements while sitting down were more aggressive, causing the whole office to creak and groan.

The naive and passionate college students, who would even meddle in trivial matters, let alone when they’re being bullied right at their doorstep. Except for Jiang Qin, the seasoned office worker, no one could calm down quickly.

“Boss, whether it’s smashing their place or throwing paint, I’ll be the first to go!” Lu Feiyu immediately shouted, showing his teeth as soon as he sat down.

Yang Shuai, after hearing this, dismissed his idea: “Smashing the place could cause trouble. How about this, I’ll go boil some water right now and pour it over their money-making tree!”

Jiang Qin raised an eyebrow: “Good, I’ll assign you two as the leaders. Don’t worry, I’ll handle the pressure from the rear.”

Lu Feiyu’s face stiffened after hearing this: “Boss, I was just boasting a bit when I said that.”

“Me too, boss. I was just bluffing.” Yang Shuai said sheepishly, sitting back down.

“So, don’t make yourself out to be a gangster. Their event is unlikely to succeed, don’t take it too seriously.”

“Why?”

“Choosing a campus beauty and a top student are fundamentally different. Which girl is pretty is a question of everyday concern in college life, carrying a strong entertainment value, just like how boys in dorms discuss girls every night, an active behavior. But do boys in dorms discuss studies every night?”

Hearing Jiang Qin’s words, Lu Feiyu and Yang Shuai fell into thought.

Discussing studies every night in the dorm?

“Our classmate xxx, his problem-solving approach is amazing.”

“Being able to solve problems is nothing special. It’s xx, his study habits are so strong, always with a book in hand, I’m so envious.”

“Do you know xxx? That girl, she goes to the library to study every morning and only returns when the dormitory closes at night.”

“Guys, since we can’t sleep anyway, let’s have an English poetry recitation! I have a video highlight of Professor xx, lock the door, and let’s enjoy it secretly.”

“I bought a postgraduate entrance exam book yesterday, it’s so good, even with illustrations!”

“Damn, that’s just too bizarre, no human could live in such a dorm.”

“I get it, no discussion means no traffic, no controversy means no heat?”

Jiang Qin nodded, then added: “Besides, the campus beauty contest is because everyone has a different concept of beauty, which easily leads to controversy. But academic performance is measured by real exams, not by online voting, right?”

Su Nai blinked: “Can’t it be?”

Lu Xuemei seemed to understand: “Every year, each department at Linchuan University has scholarship recipients and winners of various competitions. It would be hard to convince people with just a vote for a ‘Star of Learning’.”

“So, why are they holding this contest?”

“Purely for marketing, to attract attention. But they might be overthinking it. Can studying really attract attention? What a joke.”

Su Nai paused, then opened her laptop: “But boss, there are already dozens of people signed up on the forum, and they haven’t even distributed flyers yet.”

Lu Feiyu pondered for a while before speaking: “Linchuan University has a strong academic atmosphere. Even if it doesn’t have the popularity of a campus beauty contest, this event will surely attract participants. It won’t fail, as winning awards can help with further studies and job hunting.”

Lu Xuemei also nodded: “It’s written on the website that this is Linchuan University’s first public academic competition across the entire campus. The prestige must be quite high.”

“If they don’t offer credits for it?”

“…”

“What if it’s not recognized as an official honor by Linchuan University?”

“…”

“What if nobody even knows about it when mentioned?”

“…”

Lu Feiyu was startled for a moment: “It’s impossible that they won’t even give credits, right? It sounds like a prestigious honor.”

Su Nai couldn’t help but interject: “Yeah, boss, the campus forum is founded jointly by the top four universities. They can’t possibly organize a study competition without offering credits.”

Jiang Qin sighed: “I’ve told you before, you need to learn to see the essence through the appearance. Now, let me ask you, what is the essence of this activity?”

Yang Shuai, after a long silence, confidently spoke up: “The essence is a competition.”

Jiang Qin snorted dismissively: “That’s like saying I’m handsome – obvious to anyone with eyes. Do we need you to state the obvious? Next!”

“Is it… a commercial activity?”

“Right, Xuemei got it. The real meaning of this competition is actually a commercial activity, aimed at promotion and attracting customers. If they give more credits to those who buy more milk tea, how is that different from buying credits with money? Do you think the real top students would agree to this? If this blows up, who would dare to take the responsibility?”

Lu Feiyu’s mouth twisted: “Damn, no credits and not an official honor? After all this fuss, giving it such a grand name, claiming it’s the first university-wide study competition, and the real prize is just a discount on driving lessons?”

Su Nai pursed her lips: “Then why are people still signing up?”

“Because everyone thinks like you, believing the old forum is serious and formal. Suddenly organizing a competition must mean a big honor, at least a lot of credits to be earned. As long as they mislead people on this point, attract customers, the college supermarket and driving school achieve their goals. As for the results, they don’t care, just like we don’t care who the campus beauty is.”

“Damn, they’re too wicked!”

Jiang Qin darkened his face: “I suspect you’re insulting me. Our campus beauty contest didn’t even offer half-price driving lessons.”

Lu Xuemei disagreed: “But having the title of campus beauty brings its own aura. I hear people in the cafeteria discussing the first and second campus beauties. Boys can say they brought up the campus beauty of Linchuan University. But what use is the ‘Star of Learning’? It’s just voted for, and the winner might not even have received a scholarship before. They wouldn’t dare to brag about it outside, would they?”

“Xuemei, you’re actually comforting people now. You’ve really grown up, becoming a young lady.”

“Boss, I didn’t expect you to be good at giving compliments. You used to say I was a young girl, blind to reality.” Lu Xuemei snorted coldly.

Jiang Qin immediately changed the subject, his gaze sharp as he scanned everyone’s faces: “As new-era college students, can we ignore our peers being tricked like this?”

Su Nai shook her head: “No, we must tell them the truth!”

“Right, so we need to let everyone know that this competition is nonsense, purely advertising and marketing.”

“How do we do that?”

“Since it’s deliberately ambiguous, even using a gimmick like ‘the first university-wide competition,’ we need to make them come out and admit that we have nothing to do with this, and the award might not even be recognized by the school. This competition is purely for marketing.”

“That sounds difficult. How would they ever listen to us?” Su Nai wondered.

Jiang Qin smiled slightly and opened his computer, starting a discussion thread on the official old forum.

“Shocking! It’s said that the ‘Star of Learning’ competition holds great value, with the top ten being guaranteed direct admission to graduate studies. Hurry up and register!”

After creating the post, Jiang Qin turned back to his team: “Everyone, follow my lead and reply to the post with the following content.”

“It’s impossible for direct graduate admission to be true, but insider information says this competition is definitely as prestigious as a provincial-level contest!”

“The person above must be new to the internet. Haven’t you heard that the top ten in the ‘Star of Learning’ will be an important factor influencing professors’ selection of students?”

“It’s not that exaggerated. It’s just going to heavily impact the allocation of scholarships.”

“The winners of the ‘Star of Learning’ will be interviewed by the Linchuan Youth Daily. This paper holds a lot of weight and will greatly aid in future studies and career choices.”

Jiang Qin, with a confident and elegant demeanor, imitated many people’s speech, each sentence with a different tone.

“?????”

Seeing this, although puzzled, the members of Room 208 still followed his instructions. They not only left comments but also created a post on their own forum to attract more attention.

Half an hour later, in a comprehensive office, the administrator responsible for the old forum noticed Jiang Qin’s post and panicked instantly.

“Damn, who said anything about guaranteed graduate admission?”

“And scholarships, newspaper interviews? Have these students gone mad? What kind of dreams are they having? No sane person would believe this!”

However, students unaware of the truth were extremely excited, especially those who usually struggled academically and never even dared to dream about scholarships. But now, just by gathering votes, they could potentially earn scholarships and even guarantee graduate admission – who wouldn’t be thrilled?

Consequently, countless messages questioning the authenticity of these claims crowded the forum.

The naïve yet foolish college students, under such guidance, were easily swept up in the frenzy.

The administrator felt a tingling sensation in his scalp. When they originally planned the event, they intentionally didn’t clarify these matters, aiming to ensure students’ enthusiasm for participating.

But now… the influence was growing, and the exaggerations were becoming more outrageous. If they didn’t clarify now, it could lead to serious questions later.

“Teacher Li, Teacher Li, come and see this. Someone is spreading rumors that our competition guarantees graduate admission.”

“Ah?”

Linchuan Forum, jointly founded by the top four universities, was managed at Linchuan University by this Teacher Li.

He glanced at the post’s content, his eyelids twitching uncontrollably.

“Quickly issue an announcement to clarify. Claims about guaranteed graduate admission are just rumors. This is merely a competition organized to foster a learning atmosphere, aimed at motivating everyone’s study enthusiasm. It has no other significance!”

“But… then won’t no one participate in the competition?”

“Even if no one participates, we must clarify. What if, after the competition ends, people demand their guaranteed graduate admission? If we don’t explain now, it’ll be too late to do so later!”

Chapter 139: Jiang Zhihua’s Ominous Premonition

TL: Etude

Although the Linchuan Campus Forum was jointly established by four major universities, its status had always been somewhat awkward.

It didn’t fully belong to Linchuan University, nor did it belong completely to the University of Science and Technology, the Polytechnic University, or the Teachers College. Coupled with its own lackluster traffic, its current situation was akin to that of an unwanted stepchild.

The forum had no authority to set school awards or control the allocation of academic credits, making it extremely cautious in all aspects. Its only selling point was its official status.

Why did it partner with Tongxing Driving School and the College Supermarket for an event?

Partly to gain some traffic and partly to procure operating funds from these two influential businesses.

However, it dared not deceive students or use the guise of postgraduate recommendations or scholarships to conduct misleading, commercially tied activities.

Such undertakings were far beyond what a small forum like theirs could handle. If any adverse impact arose and was traced back to them, Teacher Li might even lose his job.

Thus, within half an hour of the post going live, a clarification announcement was promptly released by the Linchuan Campus Forum.

The gist of the announcement was that the competition held no special significance and was merely intended to stimulate university students’ passion for learning, hoping to create a positive study atmosphere within Linchuan University. The talk of postgraduate recommendations was completely unfounded, and the final interpretation of the event lay with the Linchuan Campus Forum.

“Teacher, there should be at least some academic credits, right?”

“Uh… no.”

Hearing this response, the students dispersed in uproar, cursing and complaining about being deceived. They wished for clearer communication to avoid misunderstandings, likening the situation to being let down after great anticipation.

“Teacher Li, twelve students just cancelled their accounts.”

“It’s okay…”

“Should we inform the College Supermarket and Tongxing Driving School?”

“No, let’s pretend we don’t know and first secure the funding for the event. This bad idea was initially proposed by someone surnamed Jiang, so it won’t fall back on us.”

“But what if Managers Jiang and Niu want to see the backend data?”

“Keep them in the dark for now, say everything is going great if they ask.”

Teacher Li responded nonchalantly, though internally cursing and wondering who started these baseless rumors.

Meanwhile, Jiang Qin was sitting in Professor Yan’s office, asking for his help to write two letters of introduction, one for the Polytechnic University and the other for the Teachers College.

After the School Beauty Contest at the University of Science and Technology, the group buying initiative was set to start a trial run at Linchuan University.

Then, the team’s focus would shift from promotion to monetization.

By the time the trial run ended, the much-anticipated winter vacation would be just around the corner. It was not an ideal time to launch new promotional activities, as the holiday was much longer than the National Day holiday, and any activity would inevitably see a drop in traffic.

However, idleness was not in Jiang Qin’s nature. He planned to use the interval to network and build connections.

First, he wanted to win over the people in charge at the Polytechnic University and the Teachers College. Starting activities in spring could also speed up the forum’s promotional efforts.

Ye Ziqing’s views, though somewhat impractical, held a thought-provoking point.

If external promotion was hindered by monetization, he would later be confined to making money within a small circle, unable to keep up with the tide of the internet.

Therefore, while monetization was important, promotion could not stop.

“Professor, you write the letters, and I’ll pour you some tea!”

Professor Yan took off his reading glasses and looked at him expressionlessly: “I feel like I’m just a tool for you now.”

Jiang Qin grinned, bringing over the tea cup: “How can you say that, Professor? You’re like a godfather to me now.”

“Nonsense, I’m old enough to be your grandfather!”

“Grandfather wouldn’t work. Choosing a father figure could lead to a beating. But you’re a teacher, and ‘a teacher for a day is a father for life’ is perfectly reasonable.”

Professor Yan thought to himself about the absurdity of it all: “Alright, you can go back now. I’ll write the letters and have someone send them to you. There’s no need to rush here eight times a day. You’re making my eyes dizzy.”

“Okay then, but make sure you use the term ‘work-study program’. Don’t get that wrong!”

As Jiang Qin returned from the main office, he hadn’t even entered the door when he heard a burst of cheers. He roughly guessed that the Linchuan Campus Forum must have made a move.

“Boss, they really did issue a clarification announcement,” Su Nai said, looking incredulous.

Jiang Qin was not surprised at all: “Claiming to influence postgraduate recommendations and deciding scholarship ownership – that hat was too big for them to wear. Things that were unclear before had to be clarified now.”

“So, what should we do now?”

“Sign up for the competition!”

“Huh?”

Jiang Qin glanced at Wen Jinrui: “Jinrui, you don’t have a driver’s license yet, right? No one’s probably going to join this event now, but how can you miss out on such a chance to learn driving at half the price?”

Wen Jinrui had an epiphany: “Right, I haven’t gotten my license yet. I can go for the half-price driving lessons!”

Yang Shuai was startled: “Damn, I think I don’t have a license either.”

“Those without a license should all sign up. Later, let Su Nai see if there’s a way to create a small program for automatic registration, maybe to rig some votes, just to make sure nothing goes wrong.”

After Jiang Qin finished speaking, he logged onto the Linchuan Campus Forum, completed his previously unfinished registration form, and uploaded a handsome photo.

Su Nai was confused: “Boss, don’t you already have a driver’s license? Why are you still participating?”

“Well, I do have a license, but I also have a mother who dares to scold me.”

“What does that have to do with anything?”

Jiang Qin sighed: “To be honest, I’m probably going to fail my calculus this semester. It would be hard to explain when I go home for the holidays, but if I have a trophy for the Star of Learning, wouldn’t that be a bit better?”

After hearing this, Su Nai looked dazed: “Are you using one thing to trick several groups of people?”

“Choose your words carefully. What do you mean by tricking? I’m just trying to give my mother a good New Year.”

“Oh.”

“Also, having a personalized milk tea cup is pretty cool. I wonder how Aunt Jiang would feel facing my milk tea cup every day. She must be very happy.”

After hearing this, Su Nai felt his scalp tingle, thinking to himself that the boss’s mind was incredibly devious. If he were Jiang Zhihua, he’d probably want to give up the store!

At that moment, Lu Feiyu couldn’t help but join in: “Boss, maybe after seeing you often, Ms. Jiang might fall in love with you. Then you won’t have to start a business anymore, just comfortably be supported by a wealthy woman.”

“?”

Jiang Qin gave him a look, his eyes filled with cold laughter and mockery.

To think of the owner of a college supermarket as a wealthy woman – you’re really lowering the standard of what it means to be a wealthy woman. Any actual wealthy woman would probably give you a bone-chilling look.

…

The next morning, the autumn wind was rustling, and the weather turned cooler.

Jiang Zhihua, the owner of the College Supermarket, had hired a few students to distribute flyers at the entrance of her store.

The flyers promoted the Star of Learning competition, the first-ever campus-wide contest at Linchuan University.

She had the advertisements made, with her supermarket’s name and logo prominently displayed for maximum advertising impact.

However, after distributing flyers all morning, few students were willing to take them. Some even pushed away the distributors after reading the content.

Meanwhile, Niu Shangtian was also distributing flyers at the previous intersection. His advertisements were printed by the driving school itself, also highlighting Tongxing Driving School’s logo and name, but they too were mostly rejected.

“It’s really strange, Manager Jiang. Were your flyers easy to distribute?”

“It’s not going well, and even when we do manage to hand them out, they’re quickly thrown away,” Jiang Zhihua replied.

Manager Niu was baffled: “Could it be because we didn’t make them into fans? I remember Jiang Qin distributed fans. Should we try making advertising fans?”

Jiang Zhihua immediately shook her head: “Look at the weather. It’s almost winter, who would want a fan?”

“But it doesn’t make sense. The driving school ads I printed before, just plain red paper with black text, didn’t have this issue. Some people even threw them into the trash as soon as they received them.”

“Let them keep distributing,” she resignedly said. “Let’s go check the data with Teacher Li.”

Jiang Zhihua and Niu Shangtian decided to leave the flyer distribution to the part-time students and headed to the office responsible for the campus forum.

Teacher Li was not there at the time, only a student administrator responsible for monitoring backend data.

“How’s the backend data, Little Jin?” Jiang Zhihua asked.

“Ah, the situation is very good!”

The administrator vividly remembered Teacher Li’s instructions from the day before. He was not to show the backend data; if asked, he was to say that everything was going very well.

Jiang Zhihua’s mouth curled into a smile, thinking that as long as the situation was good, that was enough. The activity had just started, and it was normal for university students to have a low acceptance rate initially. She assumed it would improve in a few days.

However, Manager Niu was persistent about seeing the data. Though unsure if he would understand it, he wanted to have a clear picture.

“Don’t worry, Manager Niu, you don’t need to see it. The situation is very good!” she reassured him.

“Oh, okay then…”

In the end, neither of them actually saw the backend data. They were slightly reassured after hearing it was good, and then they returned to the streets to continue distributing flyers and building momentum.

Jiang Qin happened to drive by at that moment. As he approached the curb, he couldn’t help but roll down his window and wave at them: “Manager Niu, Aunt Jiang, distributing flyers? Let me take a look!”

“…”

Niu Shangtian and Jiang Zhihua exchanged glances, surprised at the young university student’s magnanimity. Despite their harsh words the day before, he still managed to smile.

“Mr. Jiang, please also support our competition,” they requested.

Jiang Qin immediately nodded: “No problem, I’ll have my classmates look at them one by one!”

Manager Niu’s gaze became a bit dazed, thinking that university students were indeed kind-hearted.

“By the way, Aunt Jiang, you’re in charge of the materials, right? Please make sure the trophy looks impressive, and it would be great if there’s a certificate, the kind with an official stamp.”

“?”

Jiang Zhihua looked at him, feeling a sudden tingling in her scalp, as an ominous premonition began to rise within her.

Why would he care about how the trophy looks?

Weirdo!

Chapter 140: The Top Spot Goes to Jiang Qin!

TL: Etude

In the blink of an eye, the season changed to early winter, and a sudden wave of cold air swept through Linchuan.

The temperatures in the northern regions plummeted, making it impossible to get by just with hoodies. Old Cao, in pursuit of romance, still ventured out early and returned late, but he had revamped his wardrobe, now donning a thick woolen coat, matching with Ding Xue’s couple’s edition.

“How do I look, handsome or not? Old Jiang, you and Feng Nanshu should also get a pair.”

“Heh.”

Jiang Qin, with a cool demeanor, swiftly dismissed Cao Guangyu.

Meanwhile, the campus beauty contest at the University of Science and Technology was nearing its climax, with the voting fervor intensifying.

Cui Yan remained firmly at the top of the leaderboard, and as long as she maintained her vote count, she was set to be the top beauty.

Pang Duo from the Department of Chemical Engineering ranked second but was not content with it.

Her fan club was diligently rallying for votes, striving to overtake Cui Yan in first place.

Jiang Qin greatly admired Pang Duo’s unwillingness to settle for second best.

Due to the rivalry between her and Cui Yan, the registration on Zhihu forum skyrocketed, with daily active users surpassing the numbers from the early days of the contest.

By this stage of the competition, there was no longer a need for additional hype; everything was falling into place naturally. Therefore, the team from Linchuan University had already withdrawn, leaving only part-time students from the University of Science and Technology to oversee room 502.

In other developments, Tan Qing had successfully negotiated with fifty percent of the merchants, securing twenty-eight letters of intent for free entry.

Wei Lalan had also secured enough advertisers, with promotional fees steadily flowing into account 208.

Under Su Nai’s leadership, the team’s website entered the final testing phase and was set to be integrated with the forum next week.

Jiang Qin, during this time, had made several trips to the Teachers College to understand the commercial layout around the Polytechnic University and to scout locations for the new Xi Tian branch.

All initiatives were progressing smoothly, and so was the Star of Learning competition.

“Xiao Jin, how’s the backend data?”

“Looking great!”

“Teacher Li, how many participants do we have in the contest now?”

“Looking great!”

Jiang Zhihua, noticing the dwindling customer flow in the store, had a nagging feeling that something was amiss.

But Teacher Li confidently asserted that everything was going well, mentioning that the first place had already received over three thousand votes, indicating significant impact of the event.

Thus, Jiang Zhihua was somewhat reassured and continued to lead the team in distributing flyers at various school entrances.

However, as time passed and the customer flow decreased instead of increasing, even the slow-witted Jiang Zhihua began to sense that something was seriously wrong. Was this what they called ‘looking great’?

“Liu, I’m not good with computers. Can you log into the Linchuan Campus Forum for me? I want to check the status of our competition.”

“Okay, boss.”

The part-time college student at the College Supermarket logged into the Star of Learning contest page.

Subsequently, Niu Shangtian from Tongxing Driving School received a call from Jiang Zhihua, urging him to come to the College Supermarket immediately.

Having just returned from a smile service training at the headquarters two days ago, Niu Shangtian’s secretary presented him with this month’s registration list for driving lessons. The list, unfortunately, didn’t bring much of a smile to his face.

Since the start of the contest, only one student had signed up, and that student eventually asked for a refund, reasoning that it was getting too cold and it would be better to wait until spring.

Thus, upon receiving the call, Niu Shangtian hurried to the College Supermarket.

“Boss Jiang, didn’t you say everything was going great? Where exactly is it going great?”

“Great, heh, it’s so great it’s gone up to the heavens!”

Jiang Zhihua turned the computer screen towards Niu Shangtian, her eyes cold and her expression fierce, as if she was about to bite someone.

Niu Shangtian, unaware of what had happened, glanced at the screen and immediately felt dizzy, his mouth almost dropping to his ears in shock.

First place: Jiang Qin

Second place: Yang Shuai

Third place: Wen Jinrui

…

From first to eleventh place, each participant’s campaign slogan was an invitation to use Zhihu forum, touted as the best campus forum in Linchuan.

“What’s going on? How is Jiang Qin in first place?” Niu Shangtian’s eyes nearly popped out of his head.

Jiang Zhihua, gritting her teeth, pointed at the screen: “Look at the vote count!”

Niu Shangtian took a closer look and realized that aside from the top eleven, who had votes in the thousands, the rest had votes in single digits: “Damn, the first few must have rigged the votes!”

“We’ve been played. No one’s really participating in this contest. The top spots are all Jiang Qin’s people, they must have manipulated the votes!”

“What should we do? I’ve already paid the sponsorship fee!”

Jiang Zhihua, struggling to contain her anger, called Teacher Li, only to receive the same overly optimistic response.

Unable to hold back, Jiang Zhihua demanded to know why Jiang Qin was in first place and why, aside from the top eleven, all the other vote counts were in single digits, some even zero!

“Mr. Jiang, I have a meeting to attend to. Let’s talk about this in detail later.”

“?”

Before Jiang Zhihua could respond, the call was abruptly ended.

Meanwhile, the part-time college student operating the computer announced, “Boss, our competition seems to have ended.”

“What?”

“Look.”

Liu pointed at the computer screen. The voting page, which was previously active, had now been disabled. A notice soon appeared on the homepage, announcing the termination of the Star of Learning contest and the official end of voting.

Jiang Zhihua felt dizzy and stood unsteadily, her face turning darker by the minute.

So this was the ‘great’ situation?

Frustrated and furious, Jiang Zhihua, accompanied by Niu Shangtian, stormed off to the office responsible for the forum’s operation.

Teacher Li, having already given up on the contest, didn’t hide anything when they arrived. He showed them a post from a few days ago.

“They made a post online claiming that the winner of our contest would be guaranteed a research position and a scholarship. I can’t be associated with such promises. If something goes wrong, who’s going to take responsibility?”

“Who posted this?” Jiang Zhihua asked, her eyes dazed.

Teacher Li pondered for a moment: “Couldn’t trace the specific IP, but the network was accessed from the Entrepreneurship Center, definitely Jiang Qin’s group.”

Niu Shangtian was speechless: “Ms. Jiang, I told you before, if we’re holding a contest, just hold a contest. Don’t provoke Jiang Qin. You insisted on mocking him in front of others, and that kid is no easy opponent!”

“You mocked him too?” Teacher Li’s eyes widened in disbelief.

“Yes, Ms. Jiang even invited him to see how well we were running our event.”

Teacher Li’s mouth twitched: “No wonder! I was wondering who would think this contest could guarantee a research position. Turns out it was them setting a trap all along!”

Jiang Zhihua’s face grew even grimmer: “I didn’t mean to, he’s just an eighteen-year-old student, what could he do?”

“Well, now you know what he can do, right? One post and he’s outwitted us all.”

“What should we do now?”

“Just end the event as it is, distribute the awards that need to be distributed, let those who want to learn driving continue with it. The best course of action would be to resolve this quietly without making a fuss.”

Jiang Zhihua was fuming with anger: “Teacher Li, we’ve already paid for the operating expenses, and until now, there hasn’t been any promotional effect at all!”

Teacher Li was indifferent to her concerns: “Our agreement clearly states that we are only responsible for organizing the contest. The actual promotion and lead generation were supposed to be handled by you offline.”

“But…”

“Don’t ‘but’ me. The contest was going well; it’s your fault for provoking Jiang Qin. He’s just an eighteen-year-old student, huh? You underestimated him and he tricked you. This is all a result of cause and effect.”

“Teacher Li, if you don’t handle this, I’ll call my cousin-in-law!”

Jiang Zhihua pulled out her phone, ready to make a call.

Most people who do business in schools, other than entrepreneurial students, have some kind of connections — either relatives of leaders, friends of leaders, or relatives of the leaders’ friends. Jiang Zhihua, for example, had a distant cousin-in-law who was the director of the academic affairs office at Linchuan University. She felt this matter couldn’t just end like this; otherwise, she’d be furious, and thus considered using her connections.

However, before she could make the call, Director Li stopped her.

“Give it up, Boss Jiang. All the materials we used were copied from them. Do you think your cousin-in-law can afford to lose face over this? Besides, Jiang Qin has been interviewed by the Linchuan Youth Daily and is now promoting a work-study program. It’d be better for you to cause less trouble and save your cousin-in-law the headache.”

“…”

After hesitating for a while, Jiang Zhihua put down her phone: “Fine, I’ll take the loss, but the top few who rigged the votes can’t get the awards!”

Niu Shangtian agreed: “The half-price driving lessons should also be canceled!”

“What? You might not care about your reputation, but I do!”

Teacher Li looked at them: “The Linchuan Campus Forum’s first contest, and in the end, we give nothing? If this gets out, I’ll be the laughingstock!”

“Then just disqualify the top eleven. There are others behind them, right? Just move them up.”

“The twelfth place has only six votes. A Star of Learning? That’s even more ridiculous than canceling the whole thing!”

Jiang Zhihua, grinding her teeth: “I don’t care, I can’t let Jiang Qin become the permanent face of our milk tea shop!”

Teacher Li sighed: “Now you see how cunning that kid is. If you really don’t give him the prize, he might stir up more trouble. Boss Jiang, you’ve been in business long enough to know the principle of not offending the petty people.”

Hearing this, Jiang Zhihua’s mind buzzed as she recalled the words Jiang Qin had said when he drove by the other day.

“Please make the trophy grand and imposing…”

“Grand and imposing…”

“Imposing…”

Niu Shangtian, after some thought, began to lean towards Teacher Li’s approach.

Jiang Qin was indeed no easy opponent — outwardly smiling but cunning inside.

It was just a few mocking words in person, and he managed to turn the entire contest upside down. If they don’t let him win the prize smoothly, he probably has more tricks up his sleeve.

“Let’s learn from this mistake.” Niu Shangtian also started to persuade Jiang Zhihua.

Teacher Li nodded in agreement: “Old Niu is right. It’s okay to suffer a small loss. Just remember this lesson for the future.”