WWFILABR 141 to 150

 Chapter 141: I, the Star of Learning!

TL: Etude

On a weekend morning, as the north wind whistled through the air, Jiang Qin, along with Dong Wenhao and Wei Lianlan, made a trip to the Wanzhong Mall in the city center.

The owner of Wanzhong Mall was He Yijun, a corpulent, wealthy middle-aged man. He hoped Jiang Qin would collaborate with Wanzhong Mall to launch a major seasonal promotion, primarily targeting students.

He Yijun was among those with a keen eye for business. He was also the first merchant to seek advertising opportunities during a major technology promotion event.

In fact, he was the wealthiest business owner that Zhihu had hosted to date.

“Mr. Jiang, I’ve long heard of your renown. I didn’t expect you to be so young. They say you’re a college student, and I didn’t believe it at first, but it turns out to be true.”

Jiang Qin approached with a radiant smile and shook hands, “You flatter me, Mr. He. Compared to you, my forum is just a small venture.”

He Yijun laughed heartily, turning to Dong Wenhao and Wei Lianlan, “And who are these two?”

“The Content Director, Dong Wenhao, and the Marketing Director, Wei Lianlan. They are the mainstays of our forum, usually very busy. But for the Wan Zhong promotion project, I specifically asked them to set aside their work and join me here.”

Dong Wenhao and Wei Lianlan exchanged glances, thinking to themselves how their boss could exaggerate. Weren’t they just team leaders in the content and marketing groups?

Yet, in just a few words, they had been promoted to directors.

But truth be told, the title of ‘Director’ did sound more impressive than ‘Team Leader’.

Jiang Qin saw them puff out their chests and stand tall, and couldn’t help but smile. He knew very well that He Yijun might not believe their titles, as after all, they were college students and their youthful faces were hard to disguise.

But as the saying goes, one doesn’t slap a smiling face.

Moreover, when it comes to status, if you don’t elevate yourself, can you really expect others to do it for you?

After a while, Wan Zhong’s Marketing Manager, a young woman named Yue Zhu, joined them.

“Mr. Jiang, here’s our plan. During the promotion, we can offer a 40% discount in the clothing section, and 20% off in other areas, except for the cinema. The event will last a month. We want comprehensive promotion on your forum – banner ads, sponsored posts, secondary pages, everything. Please, name your price.”

Jiang Qin extended his hand: “One hundred thousand yuan.”

The room fell silent at his words.

Yue Zhu smiled awkwardly, “Mr. Jiang, you must be joking, right? Our entire event’s profits might not even reach a hundred thousand.”

“Ms. Yue, this is the most reasonable price we’ve come up with after careful consideration.”

Wei Lianlan couldn’t help but swallow nervously.

To be honest, they had only learned about the Wanzhong Mall visit half an hour ago.

All this talk of research was purely the boss making things up.

But a hundred thousand seemed too much. After all, the most expensive ad space on the forum was actually only thirty thousand yuan.

Although Wan Zhong’s requirements were indeed a bit excessive, a hundred thousand was unjustifiable.

“Mr. Jiang, isn’t your homepage carousel only 29,999? And the other ad spaces don’t seem that valuable, right?”

“What is Wan Zhong’s budget, then?”

Yue Zhu glanced at He Yijun and, upon receiving a nod, replied, “After calculating, we believe fifty thousand is the most appropriate.”

Jiang Qin nodded, “Alright, then fifty thousand it is.”

“?”

Yue Zhu was stunned for a moment before realizing, “Mr. Jiang, you really are straightforward. This is the first time I’ve seen such a negotiation…”

Jiang Qin waved his hand and took out a document from his bag, “I can agree to fifty thousand, but first, I would like you both to take a look at the new service we are about to launch.”

He Yijun uncrossed his legs and leaned in to take a look, “An intention letter for joining the group-buying network?”

“We’ll officially start the trial operation in December. If Wan Zhong is interested, you can give it a try. We’re looking for our first batch of partners.”

“Group buying… to be honest, I’m not very optimistic about it,” He Yijun shook his head.

Jiang Qin pushed the document forward, “Joining is free. You sell a product, we take a commission. There’s no loss if it doesn’t sell. Moreover, if we reach a cooperation, you’ll save fifty thousand on your promotion fees.”

“That’s true,” Yue Zhu seemed somewhat interested, as they could save half.

He Yijun looked at Jiang Qin with a strange expression, “Mr. Jiang, where did we save fifty thousand?”

Jiang Qin coughed, “The promotion fee of a hundred thousand, cut in half by signing an intention letter – isn’t that saving fifty thousand?”

“But we never agreed to a hundred thousand, how can you say we saved fifty thousand? You’re changing the concept!”

As he spoke, Yue Zhu’s expression froze, realizing she had almost been duped.

The asking price was his, not the final agreed price. Their original budget was fifty thousand. How could that be considered savings?

This college student, so young, yet every word is a trap?

After being exposed, Jiang Qin wasn’t embarrassed but instead grinned, “Well, that’s the market price. If we can’t cooperate, I’ll still stick to a hundred thousand. But joining for free saves fifty thousand, isn’t that appealing?”

“…”

Jiang Qin had calculated before coming that Wanzhong Mall’s promotion would cost at most seventy thousand. Thus, he wasn’t really here for the promotion fee. His primary goal was to find a partner for the group-buying initiative.

If he were to negotiate formally, he would be at a disadvantage in terms of status and could easily be manipulated by the other party.

But if he made Wan Zhong feel like they were getting a good deal, the chances of cooperation would be much higher.

It’s all about tactics. The same thing, when phrased differently, can yield vastly different results.

“Fifty thousand,” Jiang Qin extended his hand and waved it in front of them, “Saving fifty thousand in one go, why hesitate? Honestly, your fifty thousand is already the lowest price, there’s room for negotiation, but I won’t haggle anymore. Fifty thousand it is.”

He Yijun, seldom seeing such an interesting young man, couldn’t help but smile, “Alright, we have nothing to lose. I’ll see what Mr. Jiang can do.”

“Thank you for your support, Mr. He!”

“But we won’t sign the intention letter just yet. I need my team to study it.”

Jiang Qin clicked his tongue, “Is that necessary?”

He Yijun looked at Yue Zhu, “Our Manager Yue has been doing mall marketing for five years, and you nearly duped her in just a few words. I really dare not sign this intention letter without a thorough study.”

“Mr. He, I’m an honest person.”

“Honest people dig the deepest pits!”

Jiang Qin laughed, “Alright, then Mr. He, take your time to study it. Just don’t be late for our group-buying launch.”

He Yijun nodded and turned to his secretary, “Little Fang, book a table at Ju Xian Ju. I’ll invite Mr. Jiang to lunch.”

“No need, Mr. He. I have to receive an award this afternoon.”

“An award?”

“Not to hide from Mr. He, but I recently won the first place in the first university-wide academic competition at Linchuan University, becoming the first ‘Star of Learning’ in the university’s history. I need to receive the award this afternoon, so I really don’t have time.”

Upon hearing this, He Yijun and Yue Zhu simultaneously lifted their heads, their eyes flashing with infinite surprise.

Linchuan University was the best 985 institution in Linchuan. The first edition, university-wide, academic competition, first place, Star of Learning – what immense prestige must these titles hold?

Just a second ago, He Yijun had indeed lost fifty percent of his trust in Jiang Qin.

A person who speaks in traps, how much integrity could he have?

However, learning that Jiang Qin was the first-ever Star of Learning in Linchuan University history, some of his trust in the university transferred to Jiang Qin.

Older businesspeople, generally not highly educated, often hold a mysterious reverence for academic institutions, especially prestigious ones.

He Yijun felt that if Jiang Qin’s academic performance ranked him at the top in Linchuan University, then he probably wasn’t a deceitful trickster.

“That’s indeed more important than lunch. Anytime is good for a meal; I won’t insist on keeping you.”

“Thank you for understanding, Mr. He. After all, I am the first, and it’s the inaugural event. My absence would disappoint many.”

“Yes, university awards are very important. I understand that.”

After a while, the trio left Wanzhong Mall and had pig’s trotter noodles at a nearby food street.

Wei Lianlan and Dong Wenhao finally confirmed that the promotion was not their boss’s real objective; his goal from the start was the group-buying cooperation.

Additionally, the whole first-ever Star of Learning at the university was rather awkward. They were almost laughing their heads off – how could their boss say it so nonchalantly and without blushing?

“Boss, didn’t you feel guilty when you talked about being the Star of Learning?”

Jiang Qin raised an eyebrow, “Guilty for what? First edition, first place, university-wide – did I lie about any of it?”

Wei Lianlan was taken aback, “Well, no.”

“See? And Mr. He isn’t from Linchuan University. How would he know that the Star of Learning is just a nominal award? I mentioned it to gain a bit more trust for the group-buying, to have Linchuan University indirectly back us.”

“I thought duping Jiang Zhihua was the last step of the whole scheme. I didn’t expect that this tactic could be reused…”

Jiang Qin peeled a clove of garlic, “Tactics are about quality, not quantity. Who cares if it’s awkward? As long as it works.”

Dong Wenhao reached out, “Boss, I want a clove of garlic.”

“You’re pretty bold, aren’t you? Not only do you not peel garlic for the boss, but you also expect me to do it for you?”

Jiang Qin grumbled as he slapped the peeled garlic into Dong Wenhao’s hand, then started pondering the group-buying launch.

Tan Qing had already secured the merchants of the pedestrian street to join the food section, and Wan Zhong would join the mall section. Now, what they lacked most were retail merchants for the lifestyle section.

Honestly, college students don’t have much money. Buying clothes is already a stretch, so their daily expenses are mostly on food, snacks, and drinks.

Especially since the group-buying service was just launching, it would be hard to gain enough trust.

In plain terms, students might dare to buy a cola on the platform, but few would dare to buy a phone.

So, in the early stages of monetization, food and retail were actually the main sectors for group-buying.

“Boss, I want another clove of garlic.”

“?????”

“I don’t know why, but the garlic you peel has the aroma of a capitalist.”

“Get lost.”

Chapter 142: Subtle Progress in Emotions

TL: Etude

“Being able to win this award, I truly deserve it… no, that’s not right, I am extremely honored.”

“I’d like to thank Linchuan University, the Linchuan Campus Forum, the college supermarket, and the Tongxing Driving School.”

“My mother taught me since I was young that the children of the poor must learn to take charge early…”

At two o’clock in the afternoon, at the Linchuan University playground, during the Star of Learning award ceremony.

Jiang Qin, holding the trophy in his hands, spoke to the audience, which wasn’t much larger than the staff, repeating his words like a broken record for an entire hour, frustrating Manager Niu to the point of wanting to ascend to heaven.

This guy’s shamelessness knows no bounds!

Doesn’t he know how he even got this award? Damn it!

If only Ms. Jiang had foreseen this, he wouldn’t have come either. Even staying in the lousy driving school would have been better than listening to this endless prattle.

Meanwhile, Teacher Li from the Linchuan Campus Forum had already had enough, silently finding a corner, facing the wall, his back to everyone, and started to smoke stealthily.

Actually, he felt somewhat relieved.

Luckily, the initial promotion was ineffective, and luckily, there weren’t many people at the award ceremony today. Otherwise, he would have been utterly embarrassed.

Jiang Qin was indeed different from the ordinary college student, with a thick and durable face.

“Teacher Li, give me a cigarette.”

“You smoke too?”

Niu Shangtian, pulling up his pant legs and squatting beside him, replied, “I don’t usually, but I do when I’m upset.”

Teacher Li took out a pack of Yuxi cigarettes and tossed it over: “Don’t worry about it, it’s over. Just avoid him in the future.”

“You say it’s over, but my troubles are just beginning.”

“What do you mean?”

Niu Shangtian, lighting a cigarette, took a deep drag: “This morning, besides Jiang Qin, all ten others from room 208 signed up for driving lessons at my school.”

Teacher Li: “…”

“I was tricked and now have to offer them half-price lessons. After all this, I’ve essentially been giving Jiang Qin’s employees a benefit. Damn, I really lost out on this deal. The promotion wasn’t even worth it.”

Teacher Li leaned in closer: “You could group them separately, make ten of them use one car, and drag it out. They won’t learn how to drive even in three years, and that would serve your purpose.”

Niu Shangtian’s eyes lit up: “Damn, why didn’t I think of that?”

“Just don’t say I taught you this.”

“Don’t worry, Teacher Li, I’m not a blabbermouth.”

As they finished talking, both men, cigarettes in mouths, turned to look at the award platform. Jiang Qin was still going on endlessly, now beginning to thank the security guard and the janitor at the school gate.

“Boss, boss, stop talking, it’s my turn!”

“Yeah, boss, leave us some time too. We want to give our acceptance speeches. I’m a junior and haven’t won anything yet!”

Realizing that his acceptance speech had indeed gone on for too long, Jiang Qin handed the stage over to the second-place winner, Yang Shuai, and came down with the trophy.

That Jiang Zhihua really had poor taste, the trophy’s appearance was utterly tacky.

A black plastic base topped with an open book design, all in gaudy gold.

However, this was more than enough to please his parents. The tackier it was, the more they would trust it, because in their minds, trophies were supposed to look like this, and any other color would seem inauthentic.

“It’s settled then. This year shouldn’t be too hard.”

Jiang Qin handed the trophy to Wei Lalan, asking her to take it back to the office. He then walked towards where Niu Shangtian and Teacher Li were squatting and smoking.

Seeing him approach step by step, both the old Niu and Teacher Li felt inexplicably nervous, shuffling their buttocks back as if to distance themselves from him.

“Manager Niu.”

“General Jiang, congratulations! Star of Learning, well deserved indeed,” Manager Niu replied with a professional, yet insincere smile.

Jiang Qin waved his hand dismissively, “I admit I took advantage of you this time, but I’m not the type to only benefit myself without helping others. So, I’m planning to promote you for free on the forum.”

Niu Shangtian was stunned for a moment: “Really?”

“Yes, Yang Shuai and the others are learning to drive at your school, right? I’ll have them take some photos every day and post them on the forum. They’ll say how great Tongxing Driving School is, with only two students per car, no need to fight or argue, and that they can get their license in just a month. Everyone should hurry up and sign up.”

…

Niu Shangtian swallowed hard and glanced at Teacher Li, noticing his frozen smile.

They understood the underlying threat in Jiang Qin’s words. It was not a favor but a veiled threat: provide two-person service for his employees, or he would expose the poor service of their driving school. There was no way they could just use one car for all ten students and drag it out until their graduation.

But what stunned Teacher Li was the realization: had Jiang Qin planned this all from the moment he saw them at the competition?

Was he really capable of foreseeing such minute details and avoiding even these small traps?

“Hmm? Teacher Li, why has your face changed color?”

“It’s nothing, just a special ability…”

Jiang Qin, impressed with himself, then left the playground for the college supermarket.

At the supermarket, Jiang Zhihua was sitting inside, furiously staring at the new batch of milk tea cups on the counter, almost fuming at the top of her head.

Star of Learning: Jiang Qin

Tsk!

Every time she saw these words on the milk tea cups, Jiang Zhihua felt a surge of anger.

Having lived for so many years, being outwitted by an eighteen-year-old was something she found hard to accept, especially without any means to retaliate.

What she didn’t realize was that Linchuan University was like a protective circle for her. She used connections to open the largest supermarket here without any competition, living too comfortably.

The schemes she could think of were mere child’s play for Jiang Qin. They might fool ordinary college students, but in the eyes of a businessman, they were nothing significant.

However, the packaging change wasn’t entirely bad for the college supermarket.

At least this morning, a stunningly beautiful girl bought five cups in one go.

She was about 1.7 meters tall, standing tall and graceful, with features so delicate that a glance could captivate one’s heart. She was cool and uncommunicative, the epitome of a rich and beautiful girl from a prominent family. Yet, she pointed at Jiang Qin’s cups, not fussy about the flavor.

Jiang Zhihua didn’t understand her choice at first, randomly grabbing the old cups, but the girl insisted on having Jiang Qin’s.

Jiang Zhihua was baffled, thinking it was just bizarre.

“Boss Jiang, how’s business today?”

Just as Jiang Zhihua was lost in thought, Jiang Qin walked into the supermarket.

Jiang Zhihua’s face darkened further, struggling to breathe smoothly: “What are you doing here?”

“I’m puzzled about something and came to ask you,” Jiang Qin replied.

“I have nothing to talk to you about.”

Jiang Qin leaned on the counter: “Just a quick chat. You wouldn’t want me to linger here, would you?”

Jiang Zhihua clenched her teeth: “Ask quickly then.”

“How did you come up with the idea for the Star of Learning competition? Wouldn’t a campus hunk contest be more appealing?”

“I thought the same initially. But Teacher Li said the Linchuan Campus Forum is an official forum. They needed to maintain professionalism and seriousness in content. A frivolous event like a campus hunk contest wouldn’t suit their image, and the school authorities wouldn’t approve. We had no choice but to settle for less.”

Jiang Qin nodded, feeling the reason matched his thoughts, then grinned: “That’s great. At the end of the month, I’m planning to hold a campus hunk contest at the front plaza and open a supermarket to divert traffic there.”

Jiang Zhihua: “…”

“Boss Jiang, that’s how business is. Where someone profits, another loses. You’ve just been too comfortable in the school, inexperienced in cutthroat competition, and hence unaware of how vicious people can be.”

“Jiang Qin, I admit I underestimated you. From now on, I’ll steer clear of you, okay? Why must you push things to the extreme?”

Jiang Qin pulled out a document and pushed it towards her: “Boss Jiang, let’s collaborate. Connect your supply chain to my group-buying venture. We can profit together and share the revenue. Otherwise, I really will hold that campus hunk contest.”

Jiang Zhihua’s gaze fell on the document, and after a long silence, she understood his true motive. Picking up a pen, she signed her name.

She had no choice. Jiang Qin’s threat was too strong. It was clear: either collaborate or face competition.

With the letter of intent in hand, Jiang Qin couldn’t hide his satisfaction.

Food supplier √

Retail supplier √

Shopping mall √

Moreover, since the Polytechnic University and Teachers College were far from Linchuan University, it would indeed be more convenient for the staff to learn driving. With Manager Niu’s help, this was also settled.

Indeed, the world is full of good people, all supporting his entrepreneurship!

Just then, the back door of the college supermarket suddenly echoed with the familiar sound of little leather shoes. Lifting his head, Jiang Qin saw the little rich lady, Gao Wenhui, and Fan Shuling walking in.

“Jiang Qin? Aren’t you taking care of your wife anymore? She’s already had five cups of milk tea today!”

“?”

Feng Nanshu panicked at Gao Wenhui’s accusation: “I didn’t! I only had two cups; the rest were for Wenhui and Shuling.”

Jiang Qin turned to Feng Nanshu: “Why are you drinking so much milk tea?”

“The milk tea cups at the college supermarket have your name on them, in seven different colors. She wants to buy two more,” Fan Shuling couldn’t help but explain.

Jiang Qin widened his eyes: “While I’m out there cunningly dealing with others, you’re getting fooled by them?”

After a moment of thought, Feng Nanshu tried to sound composed: “Jiang Qin, which color do you want? Your best friend will buy it for you.”

“No more drinking.”

“I just want the cups.”

Jiang Qin looked at Jiang Zhihua: “Boss Jiang, how about giving us two cups for free?”

Jiang Zhihua was furious, forced to sign a contract and now to give away cups for free: “Take them, just take them and leave.”

“Go get them,” Jiang Qin said.

The little rich lady raised both hands, one black and one white cup in each: “Already got them.”

Jiang Qin laughed: “Now we can summon the dragon. Make a wish.”

“I wish to see you every day.”

“…”

Jiang Qin, stunned by Feng Nanshu’s earnest expression, suddenly heard Gao Wenhui’s voice: “Jiang Qin, we’re going to the cafeteria to eat. Do you want to come with us?”

“Sure, I’ve been busy all afternoon. Let me treat you out.”

Gao Wenhui’s eyes lit up: “You’re paying?”

“I’m in a good mood today, so it’s on me. Let’s go.”

Without thinking, Jiang Qin instinctively took Feng Nanshu’s delicate hand and led her out of the supermarket. The little rich lady, caught off guard, quietly looked at Jiang Qin, like a soulless kitten.

“Wasn’t Jiang Qin only into touching feet? How come he’s holding hands now?” Gao Wenhui exclaimed in surprise.

Fan Shuling crossed her arms: “It seems their relationship has made some subtle progress.”

“No way, we must follow them. I need to witness this.

Chapter 143: Jiang Qin is a Villain

TL: Etude

On a late autumn afternoon, the sun hung high in the sky.

Although the campus of Linchuan University was desolate, with even the air carrying a hint of dry coldness, the sunlight was exceptionally brilliant and gentle, warming everything it touched.

The walkways on both sides of the road were no longer visible under the red bricks, completely covered by a carpet of golden yellow leaves. Occasionally, students would burst out of the green belts, playfully tumbling over the soft foliage.

Jiang Qin wore a black coat, his figure lean and erect, walking with a touch of rebellious nonchalance.

Feng Nanshu, on the other hand, donned a white coat, revealing a small patch of her delicate collarbone. Her tall figure accentuated her mature, lady-like charm, reminiscent of the elegant heiresses in Korean dramas.

The two strolled hand in hand on the leaf-strewn pathway, their shoulders touching. The difference in their heights only added to the romantic, campus love story atmosphere.

“You’re the owner of Xi Tian, so you can’t just go to other people’s milk tea shops. People might think our milk tea isn’t good,” Jiang Qin said, moving a wandering student out of the way, instinctively tightening his grip on Feng Nanshu’s delicate hand.

“Their cups have your name on them, ours don’t,” Feng Nanshu replied, lifting her soft, delicate face. Her skin was fair and smooth, her eyes blinking gently, her eyelashes trembling slightly.

“Our cups can have it too, but it’s not necessary. Who else, besides you, would buy milk tea for my name?” Jiang Qin paused, slightly startled.

What ‘our’? He almost got carried away there! He turned to see Feng Nanshu’s reaction, wondering if she had done it on purpose.

But the little rich lady’s profile was so stunningly beautiful – her fair, captivating skin as smooth as a peeled boiled egg – that he couldn’t take his eyes off her, forgetting his original intention, mesmerized by her beauty.

“…”

“Don’t look at me like that, I’m feeling shy now,” Feng Nanshu warned him earnestly.

Jiang Qin held his breath, “What’s there to be shy about? I’m just your best friend.”

“I don’t know.”

“You don’t have any inappropriate thoughts about me, do you?”

Feng Nanshu pursed her rosy lips, “No, my mind is completely blank.”

Jiang Qin fell silent for a moment, a faint frown creasing his forehead, feeling a vague sense of restlessness.

She wasn’t shy when they went to the hot springs during the summer holiday, nor when he touched her foot. Why was she suddenly shy now?

Jiang Qin didn’t dare to ponder too deeply, as overthinking often led to confusion.

So, they continued walking, the atmosphere slightly tense, making Jiang Qin feel somewhat uneasy, as if he cared about something.

After hesitating, he picked up a beautiful fallen leaf, waving it in front of Feng Nanshu, “Isn’t it pretty? I’ll give it to you as a gift.”

“But I don’t have a free hand, can you hold it for me?” Feng Nanshu really wanted it, but she didn’t want to let go of either the cup with her name or Jiang Qin’s hand.

Jiang Qin was puzzled, “What about your other hand?”

Feng Nanshu: ?

Jiang Qin suddenly realized the delicate, soft hand he was holding, slightly cool and petite. He quietly lifted it to look, his eyes widening in surprise, “Feng Nanshu, when did you slip your hand into mine?”

“At the supermarket.”

“What a sly pickpocket! I didn’t even notice, and I’ve been holding it all this time?” Jiang Qin was astonished.

Feng Nanshu pursed her rosy lips, “Actually, my ‘sleight of hand’ was the one being stolen.”

“?”

Jiang Qin thought for a moment, intending to let go, but the soft and fragrant touch made him involuntarily squeeze her hand again. He thought to himself, having already touched her foot, why fear holding hands? It wasn’t like their fingers were interlocked, so it wasn’t a big deal.

“Today, I’m in a good mood, so I’ll let us be bold this once. But we can’t do this again next time. Stealing a boy’s hand is hooligan behavior, but I won’t blame you this time.”

Feng Nanshu looked at him expressionlessly, “Jiang Qin, you’re a big bad guy.”

“Tsk, tsk, tsk, a bad guy, huh? Damn sweet…”

Gao Wenhui couldn’t help but comment, snapping several photos with her phone, feeling that each one looked good enough to be wallpaper material.

Fan Shuling was also following them, though not as closely as Gao Wenhui. She also thought Jiang Qin and Feng Nanshu were a good match. Despite their intimacy, they lacked the greasiness of new couples in love. Even their hand-holding seemed pure, like a cat’s paw scratching at one’s heart, itching and igniting a sudden desire to be in love.

“We should have a target for dinner, right? What do you guys want to eat?”

“Hotpot, this weather is perfect for hotpot.”

The late autumn in Linchuan was already very cold, especially as evening approached, with the north wind blowing sharply, making the chill very apparent.

In such cold weather, Feng Nanshu, Gao Wenhui, and Fan Shuling unanimously suggested hotpot. Jiang Qin nodded and drove them to a hotpot restaurant in the city center.

Perhaps everyone felt it was a good day for hotpot, so the restaurant was bustling with people.

The four of them ordered a ‘yuan-yang’ (mixed) pot and filled the table with meat.

Halfway through the meal, half of the dishes were eaten. The little rich lady’s lips were red from the spice, but the joy in her eyes was unmistakable.

…

After dinner at the hotpot restaurant, Jiang Qin drove back to Linchuan University, dropping the three girls off at their dormitory.

The sky was turning dark, and a stern chill enveloped the campus, deterring the couples on the streets.

Jiang Qin was planning to go to the bathhouse for a shower but suddenly received a call from Lu Guangrong.

Lu first feigned concern, asking about his recent business and if he needed any help, generously stating that the college would assist if needed.

As a counselor who was usually elusive, his sudden call of concern immediately put Jiang Qin on alert.

Sure enough, Lu’s tone changed in the next second, saying that some leaders were planning to visit Room 208 and would arrive in an hour. He instructed Jiang Qin to tidy up and prepare to welcome the inspection with the best spirit.

“Teacher Lu, who are the leaders coming?”

“They’re leaders from our school, one is President Zhang, in charge of school affairs, and the other is Director Gu from the Publicity Department.”

“Okay, I got it.”

Jiang Qin hung up and pocketed his phone.

His entrepreneurship application was affiliated with the Finance Department, so it was normal for Lu to know about this first.

Moreover, he knew that a visit to 208 was inevitable.

After all, a startup by a freshman that made it to the newspapers would certainly draw the school leadership’s attention.

He pondered while holding his bath basket, wondering whether to shower or not. Taking a shower would delay him by twenty minutes at most, which wouldn’t be too late for welcoming the leaders.

But then he thought it might not be appropriate.

What if the leaders arrived early?

What if only Su Nai was in the office?

What if…

Damn, this could be serious.

Even if Su Nai wasn’t in the office, if Dong Wenhao and his guys were caught playing cards by the leaders, it wouldn’t look good.

So, Jiang Qin turned back halfway from the bathhouse and headed to Room 208 first.

Su Nai wasn’t indulging in any peculiar hobbies; instead, she sat quietly at her workstation, testing a website, appearing like an ordinary girl with no strange interests.

But Dong Wenhao was indeed leading a card game. Judging by the numerous paper notes on Lu Feiyu’s face, they seemed to be in the middle of an exciting game.

“Enough, enough. Stop playing and get up. Clean up your mess.”

Dong Wenhao peeled off the note in front of his eyes, “Boss, didn’t you say we’ve worked hard at the University of Science and Technology for so long? These two days we could relax, play, and enjoy.”

“Today’s a special case. Leaders from the school are coming for an inspection.” Jiang Qin kicked Lu Feiyu’s backside, “Hurry up and wash your face. You’ve got so many notes on it; you look like a door curtain.”

“Boss, a gentleman uses his mouth, not his hands!”

“Stop spouting clever sayings. They’re almost here, get moving!”

Under Jiang Qin’s repeated urging, everyone in Room 208 sprang into action. They cleaned up the poker cards, stashing them in a cabinet, and tidied up their workstations, restoring the office to its proper look.

“Is this okay, boss?” Dong Wenhao approached and asked.

“It’s still lacking.”

“What’s missing? I’ll get it done right away.”

Jiang Qin squinted, surveying the room: “We need a few more computers, some heaters, printers, and better chairs.”

Dong Wenhao was baffled.

“Here’s what we’ll do: move everyone’s laptops to Room 207 and hide them there. Leave only three here. Move our heaters there too, along with the printers, the water dispenser, and my boss chair. Move those new chairs as well and lock them up.”

“Boss, are we moving?”

Jiang Qin lowered his voice, “Important school leaders are coming for an inspection. It’s time to play poor. The child who cries gets the milk!”

Dong Wenhao instantly understood and started directing everyone to move things to Room 207.

“Lu Feiyu, you changed the light bulbs last time, right? Take down two of them.”

“Boss, are we really going to skimp on a few light bulbs?” Lu Feiyu looked shocked.

Jiang Qin glanced at him, “It’s about creating the right atmosphere. When the leaders see a dimly lit room with few valuable items, they’ll surely allocate us something.”

Lu Feiyu found the logic reasonable, so he laid a couple of newspapers on the table and unscrewed two light bulbs.

In this way, a perfectly fine office was transformed into a place that looked both shabby and dim, exuding an atmosphere of frugality and hardship.

Chapter 144: The Polite Robbery

TL: Etude

Footsteps echoed through the empty corridor.

Vice Principal Zhang Baiqing, in charge of school affairs, and Director Gu Chunlei of the Publicity Department, arrived at the Entrepreneurship Center. Accompanied by a group of teachers, they walked around, stopping occasionally to briefly inspect various entrepreneurial projects.

“Principal Zhang, Director Gu, this is a photography studio started by students from the Media Department.”

“This is a tutoring class initiated by the Foreign Languages Department.”

“…”

Cao Xinyue, acting as the receptionist, followed closely behind the leadership team, providing a brief introduction to each entrepreneurial project.

Vice Principal Zhang Baiqing listened and nodded along, but it was clear that he wasn’t very interested.

To be honest, such entrepreneurial projects were commonplace in many schools and could hardly be considered real entrepreneurship, merely minor ventures.

“Let’s go see Jiang Qin’s forum project first,” he suggested.

“Jiang Qin’s project is in Room 208.”

“Then let’s head straight to Room 208 and skip the rest.”

Since the Vice Principal had spoken, Cao Xinyue didn’t insist on introducing every project. Truth be told, some of these projects had been established before her time at the general office, and were rarely active except during official inspections.

Her introductions were based on what she had memorized from files; otherwise, she wouldn’t even know what each classroom was used for.

Thus, the group hurried to the second floor, heading towards Room 208.

The atmosphere in Room 208 was notably gloomy, starkly different from the bright and active classrooms they had seen earlier, creating a somewhat oppressive feeling.

The technical team, consisting of five people, took turns using a single computer. Su Nai was the operator, while the other programmers gathered around, occasionally offering suggestions.

Dong Wenhao’s content team also shared a single computer. Lu Feiyu was responsible for typing, while the others buzzed with ideas.

“Principal Zhang, Director Gu, this is Room 208…”

Cao Xinyue reached the doorway of Room 208 first, and upon glancing inside, she paused in surprise.

What’s going on here?

Why is it so dim, almost like the lights are off? She recalled Room 208 being different.

“How come the conditions in Room 208 are so poor?” Zhang Baiqing frowned as he stood at the door.

“That’s not right. I remember the photos published in the Qinchuan Youth Newspaper. Room 208 looked quite lavish, with desks full of laptops, even better than our school offices.”

Gu Chunlei also looked puzzled, feeling like she was experiencing the disparity often found between product photos and the actual item, like when shopping for snacks at a supermarket.

Cao Xinyue, familiar with Jiang Qin’s antics, knew he must be up to something again.

He had previously come up with a clever ploy to acquire Room 207, even pretending to find the key by accident. It was clear that he must have set another trap this time.

“Jiang Qin, Principal Zhang and Director Gu are here.”

Cao Xinyue called out from the doorway. As her voice fell, Jiang Qin slowly raised his head from behind the desk, straightened his clothes, and stepped forward to greet them.

He had heard the commotion earlier but had waited to make an appearance, not wanting to disrupt the leaders’ initial impression of Room 208’s humble setting.

“Good day, Principal, Director, and distinguished leaders! Welcome to your inspection visit!”

Principal Zhang Baiqing greeted him with a kind smile: “Your website is doing well, and the work-study program is progressing nicely. I’ve heard about it for a while but only found the time to visit today.”

Jiang Qin nodded in understanding: “It’s an honor for everyone in Room 208 that the Principal and Director, despite your busy schedules, could spare time to visit us.”

“What’s with the lighting here?”

“Oh, it broke a few days ago. We’ve been too busy to contact the maintenance staff, and it doesn’t really affect our work, so we just left it as is.”

Curious, Gu Chunlei walked in for a closer look, growing more baffled: “Jiang Qin, the Qinchuan Youth Newspaper published photos of your office, and it definitely didn’t look like this. Where are the computers? I remember there was even an impressive executive chair.”

Jiang Qin coughed slightly: “When I knew the reporters from Qinchuan Youth Newspaper were coming, I specifically borrowed some computers and chairs to avoid embarrassing our school. After the photos were taken, I returned them all.”

“Only three computers for over a dozen people. Doesn’t that affect efficiency?”

“It’s manageable during downtime, but when it gets busy, we have to work in shifts.”

Vice Principal Zhang Baiqing couldn’t help but comment, “Since you’re short on equipment, haven’t you applied for more from Professor Yan?”

Jiang Qin sighed with a troubled expression: “I did apply, and it was quickly approved. Both Professor Yan and Senior Sister Cao are very supportive of Room 208, but the application requires multiple approvals, and the implementation is admittedly slow…”

“How long ago did you submit the application?”

“Half a month now. Up to this moment, we haven’t seen even a mouse pad, let alone a computer. We’ve been relying on these three computers to develop our business with the Science and Technology University. Just the other day, Su Nai’s keyboard nearly caught fire from overuse, and there’s something wrong with the sound system. When someone is in the office alone, strange noises often emanate.”

Su Nai, who was coding, stiffened, her eyes widening with a flash of cold intent.

The boss is implying something, isn’t he?

What exactly are these strange sounds he’s talking about?

“The spirit of simplicity and hardship is commendable, but there’s a limit. Write a new application detailing exactly what you need, and I’ll see to it personally,” Zhang Baiqing said.

As a leader in the school affairs office, Zhang had the actual power to expedite support requests, unlike Professor Yan.

“Then, please take a seat, Leader. I’ll write it now. Lanlan, go to the main office on the first floor and bring some water for Principal Zhang and Director Gu.”

Wei Lanlan felt a bit suffocated, thinking, ‘The boss really leaves no stone unturned, even hiding the water dispenser!’

“Okay, I’ll go fetch water from the first floor right away. Principal, Director, please wait a moment.”

After listening, Gu Chunlei turned to Jiang Qin: “Do you usually go to the first floor for water?”

“No, I ask them to bring a cup from their dorm every day. Once it’s finished, they don’t drink any more. It saves water and reduces bathroom trips.”

“…”

Jiang Qin rambled on, his mind entirely focused on the application form.

Computers, printers, air conditioners, TVs, power strips, electric kettles, water dispensers, heaters, brooms, mops…

He thought, ‘Might as well request everything in one go. The regular approval process is excruciatingly slow.’

Zhang Baiqing’s smile gradually stiffened, then faded away, thinking, ‘Clever boy, trying to make a fortune here?’

“Write just half for now. Asking for too much might not be good.” Jiang Qin handed over the application form.

Zhang Baiqing glanced at it: “You need quite a lot, and this is only half?”

Jiang Qin sighed: “It’s not that I’m asking for too much, Principal, but that I lack too much.”

“Alright, I’ll see to it once I’m back. But get the light fixed soon.”

“Of course, Principal.”

“This project is tied to work-study. Do it well and report any issues to the school immediately.”

After leaving these instructions, Zhang Baiqing left Room 208, glancing at the application form again, thinking, ‘Is this even a request? It’s more like a very polite robbery.’

‘I should visit Room 208 less often in the future; it’s full of pitfalls.’

Cao Xinyue leaned against the doorframe of Room 208: “Junior, quite the feather plucker, aren’t you?”

Jiang Qin’s eyes deepened: “Starting a business is indeed tough. I don’t like doing this, but there’s no other choice. Who doesn’t want to be a vibrant, refreshing male god? Who doesn’t want to buy whatever they lack with a grand gesture? Becoming greasy and cunning is a last resort. We have to survive, after all.”

“…”

“Senior Sister, do you look down on someone like me? I must lack the honesty and kindness of a college student. Nobody likes someone who reeks of money-grubbing, not even myself…”

“Junior, I’m not mocking you, but your situation is making even me feel distressed.”

Cao Xinyue felt a wave of sympathy, her gaze filled with genuine concern.

She wasn’t mocking him; it was just a vent. She had witnessed Jiang Qin running around tirelessly, lacking even the time to return to his dormitory and resorting to staying in Room 207. She had a fair understanding of how exhausting his efforts were.

Moreover, she understood that business was like that: every penny had to be spent wisely, saving wherever possible.

“Here’s what we’ll do: if you need help around here, just call me. If I’m not available, you can ask Hong Yan or Tang Lin. We’ll help whenever we can.”

After a moment of silence, Jiang Qin spoke: “Actually, there is something I need your help with right now.”

“????”

“I need a PowerPoint presentation for a project pitch. Could you help me with that?”

Realization dawned on Cao Xinyue: “You were pretending to be pitiful, not just waiting for the Principal but also waiting for me!”

“No, absolutely not. I believe professional matters should be handled by professionals. You’ve dealt with so many entrepreneurial projects and surely know what the leaders like. I’m about to visit Li Gong University and Teacher’s University, and this presentation is crucial.”

“Will you pay?”

“Yes, I will. As long as it’s well done, you’ll be fairly compensated.”

Cao Xinyue pursed her lips, thinking that at least Jiang Qin had some conscience left, not planning to exploit her labor for free: “The main office isn’t too busy lately. I’ll go back and arrange for someone to help you with the PowerPoint.”

Jiang Qin clasped his hands in gratitude: “Thank you so much, Senior Sister.”

“After the presentation is done, you have to treat me to a meal!”

“Definitely!”

Jiang Qin watched Cao Xinyue leave and then turned back to Room 208, instructing Dong Wenhao to move things around and Lu Feiyu to fix the light bulb. Having been in the dim room for so long, his eyes were nearly strained.

“Lucky that your boss lady didn’t come by today,” Jiang Qin remarked.

Su Nai, looking puzzled, lifted his head: “Why?”

“If Principal Zhang had seen her buying such expensive imported fruits, our ruse today wouldn’t have worked.”

“That’s true…”

At that moment, Dong Wenhao entered, carrying Jiang Qin’s executive chair: “Boss, shall we play cards?”

Rolling up his sleeves, Jiang Qin replied: “Today, with the school’s strong support, I’m in a good mood. Let’s play cards.”

Chapter 145: The Boss Lady is a Master

TL: Etude

“Shall we play for money?”

“No gambling for me, I’m broke as hell, and I’m strictly against gambling and drugs!”

Dong Wenhao coughed and said, “We don’t usually play for money either, but we thought we’d make an exception since the boss is here.”

After hearing this, Jiang Qin looked puzzled: “Oh, so you think I’m an easy mark?”

“No, no, no, it’s just that, given your esteemed status, we wanted to play something with real stakes.”

Jiang Qin smirked, “Heh, Wenhao, trying to learn from me how to swindle people? You’re on the right track, but it’s not enough to pique my interest.”

Lu Feiyu couldn’t help but interject, “Boss, we have fun playing our usual games, but think about it, having a bunch of paper stuck to your face would really undermine your dignity. And dignity, that’s something money can’t buy.”

“That word, ‘dignity’, really is something else.”

After listening, Jiang Qin poked Dong Wenhao, “Listen to this, Old Lu is learning faster than you. I’m almost tempted now.”

Dong Wenhao coughed, “Great, the boss has agreed to play for money. Five bucks a game!”

“The hell, when did I agree? Five bucks is too much, I only spend fifty cents on ice cream!”

“Boss, does your boss lady keep you on such a tight leash?”

“Nonsense, five bucks it is!”

Cursing under his breath, Jiang Qin reached for the cards.

The poker game they played, taught by Dong Wenhao, was unique to his hometown and involved five players.

The Emperor is known to all, but the Eunuch is a secret ally, working together to beat the three commoners. Victory is achieved when all of a player’s cards are played, with the fun lying in the Eunuch’s hidden identity, creating mutual suspicion, to the extent that even the Emperor doesn’t know who his protective Eunuch is.

The game requires four decks of cards, totaling over two hundred cards.

After Dong Wenhao explained the rules, Jiang Qin felt confident and played his cards with a clatter, ending up last.

“Boss, you lost, pay up!” Dong Wenhao extended his hand.

Jiang Qin frowned at him, “Put it on my tab. Who knows, maybe I’ll win it back later.”

Lu Feiyu looked up, “Just don’t forget, boss. You owe me five bucks too.”

“I’ve only played one round, how come I owe both of you money?”

“Dong’s the Emperor, I’m the Eunuch, and since you came last, you have to pay double. That’s the rule.”

“What kind of bullshit rule is that? It’s even shadier than mine.”

Dong Wenhao and Lu Feiyu exchanged glances, their faces alight with the thrill of fleecing a newcomer. In these kinds of card games, first-timers rarely have the upper hand and mostly flounder between understanding and confusion, so losing money is a given.

It would take at least eight or nine rounds for even the smartest person to grasp the intricacies of the game.

So, they figured the boss had agreed to play just to give his employees a bonus.

“Boss, you’re not going to lose your cool over losing money, are you?”

Jiang Qin snorted, “That would be low class. I understand the stakes of the game. Let’s shuffle and start again. I think I’ve got the hang of it now.”

Ma Yubao coughed, “The loser shuffles the cards. That’s also a rule.”

“Fuck!”

Jiang Qin cursed as he gathered the scattered cards in front of him and started a new game, only to lose again, once more finishing last.

The four players across from him were about to die laughing, especially Yang Shuai, whose mouth stretched almost to his ears.

While they were laughing, the door of Room 208 suddenly opened. Jiang Qin looked over at the sound and saw a pretty, petite face peeking in. Her eyes were cold, her expression fierce yet cute. Her full, cherry lips looked soft and moist under the light, as if one bite would yield water.

Simultaneously, all the employees in Room 208 turned to look and brightened up instantly, sweetly calling out “boss lady” in unison.

Feng Nanshu nodded with some pleasure and then entered, sitting down beside Jiang Qin, looking obediently demure.

She seemed to have just taken a bath. As the young, wealthy woman leaned in, a soft, floral scent wafted into Jiang Qin’s nostrils, a delicate and refreshing fragrance that tickled his senses.

“Do you want to play?” Jiang Qin passed the cards to her.

Feng Nanshu leaned over to look and said, “I don’t know how, I’ll just watch you play.”

“Deal the cards, deal the cards.” Jiang Qin shuffled the cards and laid them on the mat.

“Boss, you haven’t paid for the last two rounds. We agreed, no backing out of debts.”

Jiang Qin’s eyebrows shot up, “Do you think I’d run away from a monastery but not from the monks? If I really wanted to dodge the debt, just take all the laptops in the office and I won’t say a word.”

Dong Wenhao was taken aback, “But those laptops are all ours.”

“We’re all family here, why talk like strangers? Hurry up, I need to redeem myself.”

So, they played another round with vigorous card-playing, and the competition was intense. Except for Lu Feiyu, who was a commoner and left first, the rest were in a tense standoff.

When it was Jiang Qin’s turn, he hesitated because his hand didn’t seem very strong. It would be difficult for him to be the second to finish, so the safest bets were third or fourth.

“Play this one next.”

Feng Nanshu stretched out her fair hand, pointing at Jiang Qin’s cards, her breath warm and fragrant on his face.

“That’s the highest card I have. If it gets blocked, I’m done for.”

For the first time, Jiang Qin was this close to Feng Nanshu, so close that he could touch her cute nose with a tilt of his head, even feeling the warmth of her skin.

“They don’t have anything higher than this.”

“I don’t believe it.”

“Brother, play this one next time, trust me.” Feng Nanshu turned her head to him, her face so close it was almost touching his.

Jiang Qin’s breath hitched, and he carelessly played his highest cards, five Jacks. The opponents’ faces changed immediately, and they shook their heads, declining the play.

The next few rounds were similar. Whatever the little rich lady suggested, Jiang Qin played, swiftly and precisely, keeping Dong Wenhao, the dying eunuch, from showing his hand.

Ma Yubao was silently planning to trap the boss with his cards, but Jiang Qin quickly cleared his hand before Ma could react.

After a few rounds, Dong Wenhao and Lu Feiyu each lost more than ten bucks, their faces turning ashen.

“How about it, shall we continue?” Jiang Qin asked, his mouth askew.

Dong Wenhao shook his head, his lips pursed, “No more, the boss lady is a master. If we keep playing, we’ll lose our entire wallets.”

Feng Nanshu spoke up seriously, “I don’t know how to play.”

“One doesn’t enter a family without fitting in,” Dong Wenhao muttered under his breath, “Never a word of truth from her.”

Feng Nanshu’s eyelashes trembled slightly, “I really don’t know how to play, but I can count. I scored 671 in my college entrance exam, only 12 points in the essay.”

“…”

After a while, Dong Wenhao, with tears in his eyes, pulled out his wallet and reluctantly handed Jiang Qin some money, refusing to play any further.

Well, if they continued, it would just be an endless cycle of the boss’s salary being won back by the boss lady, a never-ending, prosperous development for the business.

“Damn, are you two laundering money or what?”

Watching Dong Wenhao insist on leaving, Lu Feiyu and Ma Yubao also paid up, packed their things, and prepared to return to their dorms to sleep.

Jiang Qin looked up and noticed that it had become dark outside. The night, deepened by winter’s arrival, seemed particularly dense. The wind blowing through the window was cold, carrying a damp scent, hinting at impending rain.

Turning around, he saw Feng Nanshu still sitting obediently, gazing at him intently with her beautiful eyes.

“It looks like it’s going to rain. I should walk you back to your dorm.”

“Okay.”

Jiang Qin stood up, picked up his coat, and walked out, only to find the little rich lady still standing in the same spot, quietly watching him, as if waiting for something.

“Let’s go.”

Feng Nanshu looked down at her feet, “Jiang Qin, I can’t move.”

Jiang Qin frowned, “Are your feet numb? Weren’t you fine just now?”

“My feet are sealed. I need to feel the power transferred from your palm to break the spell.”

“?!”

Jiang Qin understood; she wanted to hold hands. This cunning little devil, first cozying up to him during the card game and now this trick.

“Well, stay here then. I’m leaving. But just a heads up, once I leave, Su Nai’s computer will start making some terrifying noises.”

Su Nai’s eyes flashed murderously, thinking to herself that if Jiang Qin dared to stay alone, it would be his end. If not for the fear of the boss lady witnessing bloodshed, today would mark his death anniversary next year!

As Jiang Qin walked away, Feng Nanshu’s eyes dropped slightly, but she still pushed open the door and followed. Her little leather shoes echoed in the empty hallway with a ‘tap tap’ sound.

“Such strong wind, has Zhu Bajie arrived?”

Jiang Qin stepped outside the Entrepreneurship Center to find a strong wind blowing through the campus, sounding like a mischievous spirit, the continual ‘whooshing’ swirling all around, tossing the yet-to-fall leaves into disarray.

The little rich lady seemed a bit panicked, her eyes fixed on Jiang Qin, following his every step.

Jiang Qin slowed down, allowing her to catch up, then took her arm, holding her slightly cold hand firmly.

“Is the spell broken?”

“It’s broken.”

Feng Nanshu spoke seriously, her only hint of fear vanishing completely.

Jiang Qin led her towards the direction of the girls’ dormitory. But halfway there, they bumped into Cao Guangyu and Ding Xue, hand in hand. The four exchanged glances, creating a somewhat awkward atmosphere.

“Yo.”

“Yo my foot, get lost!”

Cao Guangyu had barely uttered a syllable before Jiang Qin cut him off with a blunt ‘get lost’.

Jiang Qin knew exactly what Cao Guangyu, that jerk, wanted to say – something along the lines of, “How come you’re holding hands now? I thought lovey-dovey couples weren’t your thing,” followed by a smug smile as if uncovering some great secret.

Jiang Qin felt at peace with himself and saw nothing to hide, but Cao’s smugness was unbearable.

Get lost, then! Cao Guangyu, cursing under his breath, walked away with Ding Xue.

“Jiang Qin.”

“Hmm?”

“Why do so many people want to be lovers if the ultimate end is to become strangers at death?”

Feng Nanshu asked softly, her voice gentle, her expression filled with confusion and wonder as she watched Cao Guangyu and Ding Xue walk away.

“Perhaps… it’s for the joy of the fleeting moments.”

Chapter 146: I Don’t Understand Love

TL: Etude

The campus beauty contest at University of Science and Technology had been ongoing for a month and was now coming to an end.

On a clear early winter day, Jiang Qin drove to University of Science and Technology with Dong Wenhao, Wei Lalan, and Su Nai to do the final wrap-up work.

The truck from Shengshi Advertising was already waiting on the university’s playground. A few workers who had come with the truck were squatting by the roadside, dressed in dark blue work clothes, ready to start their day.

Jiang Qin approached them, handed out half a pack of Yuxi cigarettes, and chatted briefly. The workers immediately began to efficiently set up the stage.

“Wenhao, you’ll be in charge of the awards ceremony later.”

“Why me again?!”

“You did well last time, I was very satisfied.”

Jiang Qin patted his shoulder, giving him an affirming look.

This incident touches on a common workplace unwritten rule: never agree to any work beyond your responsibilities with the boss. If you do poorly, you’ll just be scolded, but if you do well, they’ll keep coming back to you. Over time, this becomes part of your job.

“XXX, have you finished the project’s PowerPoint?”

“Boss, PowerPoint isn’t part of my job.”

“Nonsense, didn’t you do the last one?”

“That’s because you said the person who usually does it was on leave, and you asked me to help temporarily.”

“You did a good job, so you’ll handle it this time too. The capable should do more. I have high hopes for you, keep it up.”

However, in the eyes of the boss, this scenario takes on a different meaning.

See, I’ve discovered a new skill in an employee. What a wise use of talent.

“Lalan, the Guoxian supermarket nearby is asking for a refund and doesn’t want to continue the promotion. Go handle it and find out what’s going on. Keep a low profile.”

“Okay, boss.”

Su Nai, standing aside with her arms crossed, asked, “Boss, what about me? What should I do?”

Jiang Qin glanced at her: “You’ve been cooped up in Room 208 working on the website recently and probably haven’t had time to have fun. I brought you out this time just to give you a break.”

“Boss, did you upgrade your hardware? Do you actually have a conscience now?”

“Taking care of employees’ mental health is also a duty of a people’s entrepreneur. Besides, enjoying the scenery is healthier for your mind and body than other distractions.”

Hearing this, Su Nai turned away to head to a nearby convenience store, intending to buy a knife.

While they were talking, two people approached the entrance of the playground: Hu Maolin, the director of the Youth League Committee, and Zhang Ming’an, the deputy director of the university office.

“I heard from Director Zhang that you’re planning to start a group-buying venture next?” Director Hu got straight to the point, his expression not too pleasant.

Jiang Qin didn’t hide anything: “Yes, Director Hu, that’s my next plan.”

“Why bother with that when your website is doing well?”

“The forum’s monetization capability is weak. It won’t last long. I must have a long-term monetization plan.”

Director Hu felt like he had let the wolf into the house: “You know about Ye Ziqing’s story, right? She lost a fortune!”

Jiang Qin understood his concerns and reassured him: “Don’t worry, Director. I’m not foolish enough to follow her exact path, and besides, I’m handsome.”

“Jiang Qin, I want to make this clear. I don’t agree with you promoting group-buying at our university. There’s no room for discussion.”

“Our trial operation will soon begin at Linchuan University, and we won’t be expanding to our university for the time being. If you’re really worried, just look at how it goes at Linchuan University. If it doesn’t go well, I won’t force it here.”

Director Hu frowned and remained silent, his gaze turning towards the stage being constructed.

Their expressions made it clear that they were not convinced and still disagreed, showing no desire to argue further.

Just then, a noisy commotion erupted from the other side of the playground, drawing the attention of the three men.

At the front of the soccer goal, a conflict had broken out between a group of boys who had been playing soccer and some part-time students from the Polytechnic University. The argument was heated, and it looked like it might turn physical at any moment.

“Boss, those students playing soccer don’t want to leave. They say the soccer field is for playing soccer and suggest we hold our award ceremony elsewhere. Should we call security to remove them?” Lai Cunqing reported breathlessly.

“They’re right, though. A soccer field is for playing soccer. We’re just borrowing it. If they don’t want to lend it, can we really force them?”

“Ah?”

“It’s okay, I’ll handle it.” Jiang Qin patted his shoulder and walked towards the arguing crowd.

Watching this, Directors Hu and Zhang exchanged a glance, their gaze following Jiang Qin.

The group on the soccer field was arguing fiercely, with some hot-headed individuals starting to grab each other’s collars. Jiang Qin struggled to separate them, pulling two players in jerseys aside to whisper something.

The student in the number eight jersey was the most agitated. He initially tensed up when Jiang Qin grabbed him, almost attempting a judo throw, but his expression gradually changed after hearing Jiang Qin’s words.

After a while, the soccer players nodded and, carrying their ball, left the playground. Jiang Qin then turned back to where he had come from.

Directors Hu and Zhang were surprised, having not expected the situation to be resolved so quickly and peacefully.

“How did you get them to leave?”

“I told them that just kicking around isn’t that interesting. Next spring, I’m planning to organize a joint soccer tournament for the top four universities, giving them a chance for a real showdown to see who are the real men!”

Hu Maolin looked at him: “Just like that?”

Jiang Qin nodded: “They don’t even care about the campus beauty, playing soccer on the day of the award ceremony. That’s definitely a deep love for the sport. What boy wouldn’t want to play a good match? It’s just a pity…”

“What’s the pity?”

“People who truly love soccer usually don’t make it into the national team.”

“…”

Hu Maolin wanted to say something more but then saw Jiang Qin hastily running off.

The next second, a backdrop panel being set up behind the stage suddenly fell, nearly hitting Dong Wenhao, who was rehearsing his lines as the host. Luckily, Jiang Qin quickly pulled him out of the way, preventing any accident.

Hu Maolin crossed his arms: “I thought he would come to me to step in, using my position as the Youth League Committee Director to drive those soccer players away.”

Zhang Ming’an glanced at Jiang Qin, who was now loudly scolding someone: “That would have been the easiest and fastest way.”

“Then why didn’t he do it?”

Zhang Ming’an pondered: “Professor Yan said that Jiang Qin has never been an extremist. He’s always been cautious and prefers to keep control in his own hands.”

“Didn’t Ye Ziqing have a similar issue when she came for promotion?”

“Yes, she came with her team to distribute flyers with loud music, which led to a conflict with a group of students sketching on campus. In the end, you stepped in, and the security guards drove those students away.”

Hu Maolin fell silent for a moment: “Let Jiang Qin try, then. You take responsibility. If anything goes wrong, you clean it up.”

Zhang Ming’an: “?????”

As time passed, the award ceremony officially began. The otakus from the Polytechnic University swarmed the venue, surrounding it completely. Dong Wenhao, looking sharp, stood on the stage, presenting each campus beauty with a white-winged trophy, creating a lively atmosphere.

Jiang Qin, with his arms crossed, watched from the side for a while, appearing listless, as if he had little interest in the event.

“Jiang Qin, have you found a girlfriend yet?”

“Not yet, Director. A man should establish his career before starting a family,” Jiang Qin replied softly.

Hu Maolin glanced at him: “Starting a family comes before establishing a career. You know, the girls at our Polytechnic University are very attractive. You might want to consider it.”

“Director, what time is it now? I’m a bit dazzled. Could you check for me?”

“?”

Jiang Qin took out his phone, lit up the screen, and held it up to Director Hu.

His phone, an older model passed down from Jiang Zhenghong, might be a bit small and outdated, but at least it had a color screen and allowed him to set his own wallpaper, which was quite a nice feature.

As soon as Director Hu looked up, he saw the incredibly beautiful girl on the wallpaper. She was wearing a white coat, her eyes sparkling as if with light, radiating an aura of purity and vivacity.

“What time is it?”

“I didn’t… see clearly.”

“So you’re dazzled too, Director.”

Jiang Qin pocketed his phone, his expression blank as he turned his attention to the award stage, his gaze gradually becoming focused.

Director Hu smacked his lips, feeling as if he had been splashed in the face.

He thought Jiang Qin’s future would definitely not be limited to the university town. If he could find a partner at the Polytechnic University, and if he really became wealthy in the future, he might mention in interviews that the entrepreneurial student from Linchuan University found his love at the Polytechnic University.

But now he realized, someone like Jiang Qin wouldn’t be lacking in girlfriends. The girl on his wallpaper seemed to outshine all the campus beauties selected by their university.

Around 11 in the morning, the award ceremony concluded, and the celebration came to an end. Jiang Qin left the Polytechnic University with Dong Wenhao, Wei Lalan, and Su Nai.

“Boss, do you know why Guoxian Supermarket asked for a refund?”

“Why?”

Wei Lalan sighed: “It’s the same reason as with Gao Dawei, but the situation is reversed. The owner ran off with his mistress, leaving his wife behind, who has lost interest in running the store.”

Su Nai clicked her tongue upon hearing Wei Lalan’s words: “The divorce rate seems to have been climbing in recent years.”

Dong Wenhao also chimed in: “Love and marriage are indeed different. Some couples are so sweet during courtship, but can’t handle real life together. That’s why they say marriage is the graveyard of love.”

“It’s not all marriage’s fault. The divorce rate correlates positively with the level of economic development. It shows that love can endure hardship, but not necessarily prosperity.”

“Boss, what do you think?”

Jiang Qin was silent for a long time: “I don’t understand love.”

Wei Lalan fell silent for a moment: “If we know the ending might be bad, is there any point in starting?”

“Here we are, get off. Notify everyone to meet in Room 208 to discuss the launch of the group-buying platform.”

Chapter 147: If the Ending is Bad

TL: Etude

The one thing that universities are never short of is people, and a large population signifies considerable purchasing power.

Jiang Qin started with creating forums and continually organizing events to gather traffic. His primary goal was to build a massive pool of traffic.

With traffic, any business expansion becomes infinitely possible.

Now, he had the traffic pool.

Thus, group buying became the final step in monetizing this traffic.

Traffic—Group Buying—Product Delivery—Payment.

In an era where smartphones and online payments were not widespread, this was the best monetization chain he could think of. Traditional group buying logic relies on sufficient purchasing power to boost sales and, thereby, convert into profit.

Previously, making money from forum advertising was just a way to fund the group buying venture.

Whether this consumer model would be accepted by university students, and how long it would take for them to embrace it, remained uncertain. The discounts and promotions in the early stages were an invisible cost.

For instance, offering discount coupons to new users or promotions for new products required financial support.

Without these discounts and promotions, it would be difficult for group buying to quickly absorb all the traffic from Zhihu.

So, resorting to various strategies was indeed a reluctant but necessary measure. After all, in Jiang Qin’s mind, group buying was the final weapon to be wielded. He was willing to save on other aspects as much as possible.

And now, he and his makeshift team had finally persevered to this stage.

Half an hour after returning from the University of Science and Technology, all the employees of Room 208 gradually returned to the Entrepreneurship Center. Shi Miaomiao was carrying half a steamer of buns and a half cup of soy milk, seemingly having rushed back during lunch.

Jiang Qin didn’t want to interrupt everyone’s lunch, so he quickly got them seated and went straight to the point.

“Group buying is about to launch, and we have a lot of work to do in a short time. I’ll assign the specific tasks now.”

“Lu Feiyu, you’ll lead the content team to shift our focus, initiating topics like product recommendations and food sharing as a preliminary setup.”

“Tan Qing and Su Nai, you’re in charge of liaising with merchants, ensuring the accuracy of product information and pricing to avoid any errors after launch.”

“Wenhao, since you’ve met Yue Zhu, you’ll be responsible for coordinating with Wanzhong Mall. Make it clear that they will handle all order deliveries.”

“Lanlan, check with the part-time society again to confirm the recruitment of campus delivery staff, and proceed with a simple training as planned.”

“And Xuemei, keep an eye on Shengshi, urging them to get the materials ready as soon as possible, and they must be in place by the day after tomorrow at the latest.”

With their tasks assigned, the Room 208 team plunged back into a bustling work atmosphere.

The content team started acting like live-streaming sales hosts, writing detailed promotional articles for the main products listed by merchants in the first person.

Dong Wenhao began communicating with Yue Zhu about the logistics of product delivery times and frequency.

Wei Lanlan returned to the East Campus to coordinate the recruitment and training of delivery staff with the part-time society.

Lu Xuemei went to Shengshi to confirm the progress of billboard and poster production.

Everything began to move forward in an orderly fashion.

Now, everything was ready, except for one final issue that needed resolving—pick-up.

This depended on the subjective willingness of the consumers, as it couldn’t be standardized. Some had classes in the afternoon, others in the morning, leading to varying pick-up times.

Jiang Qin’s team was short on manpower, and it was impossible to find part-timers who could stay in the dormitory buildings all day. So, they might have to trouble the dormitory aunts.

The dormitory aunts were managed by the school’s logistics department, which fell under the administration department. The top leader should be Vice Principal Zhang Bo Qing, whom he had met a few days ago.

Hmm.

Principal Zhang was a good man, specializing in resolving issues for entrepreneurs and filling in the gaps in their ventures.

After some thought, Jiang Qin decided to find an opportunity to meet with the vice principal to discuss the issue of re-employing the dormitory aunts.

“Boss!”

Shi Miaomiao suddenly looked up, “Don’t you have a class this afternoon? Why haven’t you left yet?”

Jiang Qin was momentarily startled. “What class?”

“English.”

Jiang Qin smacked his lips, put on his coat, and prepared to head to class. He wasn’t going because he liked the class; rather, his absenteeism had reached a critical point. If he missed another class, he would fail without even taking the exam. Failing a course wasn’t a big deal, but he wasn’t skilled in many areas, and failing too many courses could lead to being advised to leave the university.

If only students didn’t have to attend classes.

Driving to the Finance Department’s teaching building, Jiang Qin, unsurprisingly, arrived late.

To his surprise, Cao Guangyu was also late, cowering against the wall like a small chick, unmoving.

“Old Cao, why aren’t you going into the classroom?”

“I got caught for being late. They made me stand as a mild punishment.”

Jiang Qin’s mouth twitched, “Standing punishment in university? Is there no law and order left?”

Cao Guangyu, gesturing for him to lower his voice, explained, “Bad luck this time. Got caught by the student union. They’re conducting a campaign to improve academic atmosphere. Absolutely no leniency.”

“You better stand properly then. I’m leaving.”

“Don’t go. They’re checking attendance in the classroom right now. If you go now, you’ll be walking straight into trouble.”

“Damn, I don’t know anyone in the student union. I’ll hide for now.” Jiang Qin reluctantly retreated.

Cao Guangyu laughed, “Were you also late because of a date? No, wait, where’s Feng Nanshu? Are you dating a ghost?”

Jiang Qin gave him a sidelong glance, “Is dating all you think about? I just came from the Entrepreneurship Center!”

“Pot calling the kettle black,” Cao retorted.

As they were talking, the student union members, led by Zhu Feng, exited the classroom. Jiang Qin turned to hide, ready to accept a deduction in his score but not the standing punishment. But before he could hide, Zhu Feng called out his name from behind.

“Jiang Qin!”

“I’m not afraid of point deduction, but I refuse to stand as punishment,” Jiang Qin declared.

Zhu Feng looked at him, “Who’s punishing you? Let me introduce you, this is Zhuang Siyu, the president of the student union.”

The short-haired senior, Zhuang Siyu, smiled slightly, “Jiang, do you have a moment to talk?”

“Taking notes for being late?”

“It’s not about being late. I didn’t even record your name. Your girlfriend answered for you. We just turned a blind eye, pretending to know nothing.”

Zhuang Siyu was surprised, “The super pretty girl earlier was his girlfriend?”

“Of course,” Zhu Feng confirmed. “Why else would a girl foolishly answer for a guy? You think we can’t tell?”

“Can we not discuss my love life? Just deduct the points.”

“Actually, we need a little help from you. Could you come to the office for a moment?”

Cao Guangyu’s eyes bulged, thinking to himself, “Wasn’t this about enforcing academic discipline? So, you targeted me specifically?”

Jiang Qin sternly instructed Cao to stand properly and then followed Zhu Feng and Zhuang Siyu to the office.

“We’re hoping to get some sponsorship from you,” said Zhu Feng.

Jiang Qin raised an eyebrow, surprised that someone would try to fleece him: “What sponsorship?”

Zhuang Siyu coughed, “Did you know about the debate competition organized by the four major universities?”

“I heard something about it from Yao, the sister in the Literature Club.”

“We need funds for the trip, and making team uniforms and flags costs money. Could you help out a bit?”

Zhuang Siyu took out a form from her bag, passing it to Jiang Qin. It contained some information about the debate competition and the required sponsorship amount.

Jiang Qin initially didn’t want to agree. He was used to fleecing others, not being fleeced himself. But his interest was piqued when he saw the list of judges, particularly the name of the chief judge: Zhang Bo Qing.

“Principal Zhang is a judge?”

“Yes, Principal Zhang asked me to come here and inquire if you’d be willing to sponsor.”

Jiang Qin’s mouth twitched, feeling that Zhang Bo Qing probably thought he had been over-supported with the entrepreneurship funding and was trying to recoup some of it. However, he did want to meet with Principal Zhang to discuss the re-employment issue of the dormitory aunts, and this seemed like an opportunity presented on a silver platter.

Meeting a principal who managed school affairs wasn’t easy; one couldn’t just see him whenever they wished. With the group buying about to launch, setting up another meeting time seemed impractical. It would be better to discuss the matter while under the banner of his sponsorship during the debate competition.

Moreover, discussing this under the banner of his sponsorship, Principal Zhang would certainly have to consider his contribution, increasing the likelihood of a favorable response.

“I could consider sponsoring, but what’s in it for me?”

Zhuang Siyu immediately replied, “We can promote your forum. After all, it’s a joint competition between four major universities, with high attention.”

Jiang Qin picked up the form to take a look. “How far has the competition progressed?”

“We’re still at the intra-school stage. The finals are coming up soon, and the winning team will represent Linchuan University against the other three universities in the final debate,” Zhuang Siyu answered every question.

“Has the topic for the school finals been chosen?”

“Whether individual fate is in one’s own hands or controlled by society.”

Jiang Qin paused for a moment. “I can sponsor, but can I attend the debate?”

Zhuang Siyu hesitated briefly, “Are you interested in debating? Of course, you can.”

“But I hope you can change the topic. The one you mentioned doesn’t quite resonate.”

“To what?”

“If the ending is bad, there’s no point in starting, versus if the ending is bad, one should still enjoy the process.”

Zhuang Siyu frowned in thought. “This topic… it’s interesting…”

Jiang Qin pursed his lips. “I want to know how people view this issue. If it’s convenient, let’s use this for the finals.”

“I’ll need to discuss it with the judges.”

“Then I want two seats, as close to the front as possible, preferably near Principal Zhang.”

After finalizing the sponsorship details, Jiang Qin privately requested Zhuang Siyu to remove Cao Guangyu’s name from the latecomers’ list, and then they waved goodbye.

“Old Cao, you owe me a meal,” Jiang Qin demanded as soon as he returned to the corridor.

“Why should I?” Cao Guangyu grinned.

Jiang Qin spat, “I sacrificed my charm to ask the student union president to scratch your name off the list. Don’t you think you should treat me to a meal?”

Cao Guangyu’s mouth twitched, “Do you think I’m an idiot?”

“Do you not believe in my charm, or that your name got removed?”

“Heh, I don’t believe either.”

Chapter 148: The Young Man is Quite Romantic

TL: Etude

Jiang Qin didn’t want to babble too much with Cao Guangyu. He pulled him to the back door and then took the opportunity of the teacher writing on the board to sneak into the classroom.

In early December, the heating in the school had already been turned on, making the entire room warm and cozy. This instantly relaxed his tensed body.

Feng Nanshu saw the person she was thinking about stealthily approaching along the corridor. She dutifully picked up her coat from the neighboring seat and made room for him to sit.

She was wearing a black turtleneck sweater that day. Its slim fit outlined her delicate curves. Combined with her fair skin, she looked lively and pure. However, due to the high temperature inside, her cheeks were somewhat flushed, adding a touch of tenderness to her usual appearance.

Jiang Qin sat down next to her and realized that although he had arrived, he hadn’t brought his book.

But that didn’t matter; he wouldn’t have used it anyway.

This was the difference between college and high school.

In high school, Jiang Qin’s English textbook, especially the word list at the back, was worn out from use. When it was beyond repair, he had to stick it together with tape and continue using it. His dedication to study was evident.

However, in college, each of his textbooks was brand new. Some non-major textbooks didn’t even have a crease on the cover.

“Did you answer for me?” he asked.

Feng Nanshu, who was lying on the desk absent-mindedly watching him, lifted her head as if coming back to her senses. “I tried my best to imitate you,” she replied.

Jiang Qin couldn’t help but smile. The naive girl thought she had fooled everyone with her imitation, not knowing that Zhu Feng and the others had turned a blind eye.

“The weather is getting colder. Is the heating in your dormitory warm enough?”

“It’s warm. Wenhui dries her socks on it. They’re dry by the next day.”

Jiang Qin couldn’t help but glance at Gao Wenhui. “Gao, you seem to know a lot of these handy tricks.”

Gao Wenhui, who was drinking water, almost choked. Her face turned red instantly. “Don’t you guys do the same in the boys’ dormitory? And it’s not just me; Feng Nanshu does it too.”

“I learned it from you!” Feng Nanshu turned her head towards her.

“It’s fine for the little rich lady; her socks smell nice.”

Gao Wenhui clenched her fists, thinking to let it go. Although the detail was a bit odd, it was somewhat endearing upon reflection.

Jiang Qin leaned back in his chair, glancing at the blackboard, intending to at least remember a few words, not wanting his visit to be a total waste. However, he soon found his mind wandering as if it had been eaten by a zombie.

He picked up Feng Nanshu’s textbook and flipped through it listlessly, only to find that every page seemed to have his name on it.

The handwriting of the little rich lady was elegant and neat, just like her.

Sometimes there was one or two on a page, other times there were seven or eight.

These differences in quantity were likely determined by how often Feng Nanshu daydreamed; the more she daydreamed, the more she wrote.

Fortunately, there were no hearts drawn next to his name…

“Keep your textbooks clean. Don’t scribble on them.”

Jiang Qin returned the English book to Feng Nanshu and said this to her, then his gaze began to wander around.

Class 4 and Class 3 rarely mixed; they mostly stuck to their dormitory groups, forming their own small circles. Jiang Qin looked up and saw Pan Xiu, with Song Qingqing and Jiang Tian on either side of her.

Seeing this, Jiang Qin couldn’t help but look back and found that Ren Ziqiang had indeed returned to his previous seat, sitting side by side with Zhou Chao.

Was it really like waking from a dream halfway?

“Jiang, why are you looking at me?” Ren Ziqiang was clueless.

Jiang Qin rested his arm on the desk behind him. “How are things going with you and Pan Xiu? I’m a bit bored; tell me about it to cheer me up.”

Ren Ziqiang wasn’t annoyed. Instead, he spoke expressionlessly, “I’ve been ignoring her for a week now. I suddenly feel it’s not a big deal. The first few days were tough, but after getting used to it, it’s actually quite relaxing. Not only did my sleep improve, but my living expenses are also sufficient now. Sometimes I even find solitude comfortable, like shedding a heavy burden.”

“Has Old Cao introduced you to a girlfriend yet?”

Cao Guangyu, hearing this, came over. “Not yet, I haven’t had the time. Next week, I might invite the girls from their dorm for a gathering. You guys can join us then.”

Ren Ziqiang, remembering the previous incident where he got splashed, almost had a physical reaction, his breathing momentarily halting. “Cao, can’t we meet separately? Just set me up with the prettiest one, will you?”

“How can they agree to meet you alone without even having seen you? Do you have Jiang’s thick skin or my charm?”

“You’ve got that backward,” Jiang Qin retorted.

Ren Ziqiang sighed. “I guess I’ll just let it be. Being alone isn’t bad. It’s getting colder, and every time you come back from a date, you’re shivering. It’s not much fun. I might as well read novels and play games.”

Zhou Chao coughed. “Cao, are you treating us at Juxianlou? I’ll go with you, splash me if you want.”

“We can’t afford Juxianlou anymore. We’ll just eat something simple outside the school.” Cao Guangyu had resorted to eating instant noodles after treating them to Juxianlou once; another treat might leave him with nothing but dirt to eat.

Jiang Qin steered the conversation back to Ren Ziqiang. “Old Ren, just let fate decide your love life. If not, you can learn from me. Look, I’m doing pretty well.”

Ren Ziqiang grimaced. “Don’t tease me, Jiang. How could I find someone like Feng Nanshu, beautiful and sweet? That would take several lifetimes of luck.”

Jiang Qin’s face darkened. “You sure have a sharp tongue.”

“Eh?”

Ren Ziqiang hadn’t understood, but suddenly found a milk candy in front of him.

Meanwhile, Gao Wenhui was puzzled, searching her desk and under it, wondering where the candy she had just taken out had gone.

“Feng Nanshu, did you eat the candy from my desk?”

“No, I don’t like milk candy.”

The little rich lady shook her head, her eyes brimming with innocence.

“I didn’t say what kind of candy it was. How did you know it was milk candy?”

Gao Wenhui eyed Feng Nanshu, noticing that she hadn’t moved her lips. She looked past her at Jiang Qin, who also didn’t seem to have taken it.

Strange, where did my damn milk candy go?

At that moment, Jiang Qin turned around, having taken the milk candy from Ren Ziqiang’s desk. “What kind of man eats milk candy?” he mused, unwrapping it and feeding it to Feng Nanshu.

“Jiang Qin, where did you get that candy?” Gao Wenhui asked suspiciously.

Jiang Qin glanced at her. “Gao, you sure are nosy.”

“It’s just that I lost my candy.”

“So if you lose something, no one else can have it?”

“…”

In the blink of an eye, the English class ended. Jiang Qin stretched lazily, feeling as if his knowledge had grown substantially.

Feng Nanshu had been following him since they left the classroom. She was like that, not wanting to part once she saw Jiang Qin.

So, he led her to the first floor’s Xi Tian, casually checked the accounts, and symbolically inquired about the employees’ lives and studies.

Fang Xiaoxuan was now in charge of the branch at the University of Science and Technology. Only Hu Xin and Chen Yong were at the Xi Tian near Linchuan University. Their efficiency was a bit lower than Fang Xiaoxuan’s, but it was more than enough for such a small store.

The little rich lady solemnly declared that she wanted to test the new products in the store.

Gao Wenhui followed too, claiming her right as the girlfriend’s best friend to also inspect.

Then, the two of them sat in a corner with their milk teas, chatting and drinking leisurely.

“Jiang Qin, is your class having a gathering? Our class is planning one. Do you want to join with Feng Nanshu?”

“I’m too busy recently, I have a new project launching soon. I can’t make it,” Jiang Qin declined coolly.

Gao Wenhui seemed disappointed. “If you don’t go, Feng Nanshu probably won’t either. She’s really attached to you.”

“It’s just a class gathering, right? Just a meal together? It’s not a big deal whether I go or not.”

“We might also sing or watch a movie, but it definitely won’t be as fun as when you guys do team building.”

Jiang Qin smiled slightly. “The little rich lady told you about it? On our team building day, we went to a farmhouse in the suburbs, cooked our own food, played cards, and stuff. It was indeed more interesting than a simple meal.”

Gao Wenhui sipped her milk tea. “I saw the photos from your team building. You even climbed the ‘Marriage Tree’ in the middle of the night, like a bear stealing honey. It was hilarious.”

“??? What?”

“What’s wrong?”

Jiang Qin’s expression changed. “What Marriage Tree?”

Gao Wenhui paused. “The Marriage Tree you climbed, full of wish plaques. The photos were pretty clear. Such a young guy and quite romantic.”

“Don’t make things up, that was a Friendship Tree!”

“Nonsense, I’ve never heard of a ‘Friendship Tree’ in my life. Do you think I’m a three-year-old?”

Jiang Qin held his breath and turned to look at Feng Nanshu, who was innocently sipping her drink through a straw, blowing bubbles into her cup.

After a while, Jiang Qin returned to room 208, carrying a bunch of milk teas, distributing them as a treat from the shop owner.

Lu Xuemei reached out eagerly, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. However, after a long wait, while everyone else got theirs, she ended up empty-handed.

“Boss, I didn’t get a milk tea!”

“You don’t have one,” Jiang Qin replied coldly.

Lu Xuemei widened her eyes in disbelief. “Why not?”

“Taking good photos can lead to trouble, you know? Do you think your surname is Chen?”

“????”

Chapter 149: What Huge Thighs!

TL: Etude

The next day brought a beautiful early winter morning.

Jiang Qin arrived at the dormitory building to socialize with the dormitory manager, Auntie Li. He wanted to subtly gauge her interest in taking on a part-time job.

Auntie Li, upon hearing that she could earn double her income just by sitting in the dormitory as usual, was overjoyed. She opened up and started chatting nonstop. However, her conversation often drifted to trivial neighborhood gossip and mother-in-law and daughter-in-law relationships, which Jiang Qin found a bit too much to handle.

“Jiang Qin, when you look for a wife, make sure she’s well-behaved. Don’t just go for looks. The prettier they are, the more trouble they bring, and they’ll likely clash with your mom.”

“And what about someone who’s both well-behaved and pretty?”

“Heh, where would you find someone like that? Have you been drinking so early in the morning?”

Jiang Qin, without agreeing or disagreeing, stood up and stretched his legs, thinking to himself that Auntie Li could really talk. He wished he had called Guo Zihang over to make the most of his conversational skills.

Love can blind a person. Maybe Auntie Li, in her joy, would even forego a commission.

After saying goodbye to Auntie Li, he planned to have breakfast in the cafeteria. But as soon as he sat down, he received an angry call from Lu Xuemei.

“Boss, our promotional materials might not be ready on time.”

“Why not?” Jiang Qin wondered.

Lu Xuemei, in a flurry of words, explained, “Shengshi said they have too many orders this month and want to deliver ours two days late. I said that’s unacceptable, but they said there’s nothing they can do and told me to get a refund if I can!”

“So arrogant. Did Mr. Li win the lottery or something?”

December is a prime time for promotions due to Winter Solstice, Christmas Eve, Christmas, and even New Year’s Day. Many stores and shops take advantage of this period for extensive marketing.

To meet deadlines, Shengshi Advertising Factory had been working overtime every day, keeping their lights on until eleven at night.

Two-thirds of the materials needed for the group buying launch were ready, but Shengshi was reluctant to start work on the remaining third.

Lu Xuemei had made three trips back and forth, only to be delayed each time by various excuses. This time, she couldn’t bear it any longer.

Jiang Qin wasn’t surprised after hearing this, as it’s a common trick used by many factories.

They complete a part of the order to give the illusion of progress, making it impossible to cancel.

Then they use the saved time to work on another order, creating the same situation, thus managing to take on more work than they can handle.

But at such a critical juncture, such tactics by Shengshi Advertising were nothing short of a hindrance. They used to provide good service, so why resort to such low tactics now?

“We’ve been a long-term client of Shengshi. It shouldn’t be like this. Is there another reason?”

“Yes, there’s a new factory manager at Shengshi. He’s completely mercenary. He dismisses me because I’m a student but grovels to anyone who drives a luxury car.”

“Is an Audi considered a luxury car?”

“He drives an Audi himself.”

After scarfing down a couple of bites of his meal, Jiang Qin decided to take drastic measures to ensure the smooth launch of the group buying campaign. He headed straight to Cuizhu Residential Area to enlist the help of Uncle Gong.

With a black sedan, adorned with wings, speeding through the streets, they quickly arrived at the entrance of Shengshi Advertising.

“Uncle Gong, charge in and park right at their workshop entrance!”

“No problem!”

After Uncle Gong’s response, he floored the accelerator and stormed into the Shengshi Advertising factory, parking imposingly right at the workshop’s main entrance.

“Thank you so much, Uncle Gong, for making the effort to come out here so early.”

“Master Jiang, ever since you bought a car, I’ve been feeling a bit guilty about my salary. It’s great to be able to help you out.”

As Jiang Qin rolled down the car window and waved Lu Xuemei over, inviting her into the car, she was stunned to see that her boss owned a Bentley with a chauffeur, her eyes filled with astonishment.

“Wow!”

Lu Xuemei reached out, tempted to touch, but her gesture was precisely caught by Uncle Gong in the rearview mirror. His expression changed, and with a couple of coughs, he stopped her from going any further.

It was just past 8 a.m., and the workers, having finished their breakfast, rushed to start their shift. They found the workshop entrance blocked by a car and, recognizing the emblem but not daring to say anything, resorted to calling the factory manager.

The new factory manager, upon hearing that a car was blocking the workshop door, rushed over in a fury, ready to scold whoever was responsible. However, as soon as he entered, he paused, immediately switching to a smile and gently knocking on the car window.

Jiang Qin ignored the first knock, and Lu Xuemei also remained still.

He continued to feign ignorance at the second knock.

It was only after the third knock that Jiang Qin opened the car door, stepping out with a radiant smile.

“Manager Chen, right? I heard that student orders don’t matter to you, and that if we’re capable, we should just cancel our order. You really don’t care? Quite the fire you’ve started as a new official; scared me quite a bit.”

“No, no, that must be the workers talking nonsense!”

“I thought so. Who in their right mind would say such a thing? That would be crazy!”

Manager Chen, swallowing hard and glancing at the Bentley and then at Uncle Gong, didn’t refute, his face full of forced smiles.

A mere Bentley wasn’t intimidating, but a Bentley with a chauffeur was a different story, especially with an out-of-town license plate, indicating it wasn’t just a rental.

The situation quickly became easier to handle. The new manager ordered the workshop to prioritize the group buying advertisement and tried to find out more about Jiang Qin’s background.

However, Jiang Qin didn’t give him the satisfaction. After confirming that the group buying advertisement was in production, his smile disappeared.

Some people are like that; they only respond to force, not kindness. Being polite only makes them feel more self-important.

“Manager Chen, where did the previous manager, Mr. Li, go?”

“Mr. Li is my brother-in-law. I’m his brother-in-law. He had some family matters to attend to and went back home, leaving me in charge temporarily. I’m just acting as the manager.”

After hearing this, Jiang Qin was relieved and didn’t pursue the matter further.

Frankly, if the advertisement factory really replaced its manager with this guy, he would have considered finding a new partner. But since it was only temporary, there was no need to worry for now.

Suddenly, Jiang Qin remembered something: “Do you have advertising hats here?”

“Yes, we have cotton, canvas, and acrylic ones, all baseball caps in various colors and styles.” Manager Chen immediately had someone bring a stack of samples.

“Can you make a batch of yellow ones for me, with the group buying logo printed on them?”

“How many do you need?”

“Start with a hundred. Deliver them with the advertising materials tomorrow, so you don’t have to make an extra trip.”

“…”

Manager Chen wanted to say it was too rushed and ask for a few more days, but he remembered that they had come precisely because of his habitual delays, and he quickly swallowed his words.

He was indeed new to managing the factory and unfamiliar with the clients. His sarcastic attitude towards Lu Xuemei was simply because she was a student and seemed easy to bully.

But if he really upset his brother-in-law’s major clients, he knew he would be in big trouble.

“Boss, what do we need the hats for?”

“The group buying launches the day after tomorrow. Imagine, during the promotional event, delivery personnel all over campus wearing these little yellow hats. Doesn’t that sound energetic? Even stray cats and dogs will stop to take a second look.”

After visualizing Jiang Qin’s description, Lu Xuemei found the idea indeed quite striking: “But… will we have that many orders?”

Jiang Qin smiled: “If there are no orders, let the delivery personnel make empty runs. Creating a false sense of busyness is also a way to build trust.”

“I see…”

“Xuemei, you stay here today and keep an eye on things. Don’t let them stop working after we leave. If you’re thirsty, go drink some tea in Manager Chen’s office.”

Manager Chen, with a broad smile, nodded and spoke much more politely to Lu Xuemei.

After leaving Shengshi Advertising, Jiang Qin had initially planned to return to the university. However, considering he had gone to the trouble of bringing Uncle Gong along, he didn’t want to waste the opportunity. So, he decided to visit Wanzhong Mall.

He Yijun, the owner of Wanzhong Mall, had always been skeptical of him, and they had only signed the agreement the previous night. Jiang Qin thought that showing up in a Bentley might bolster He’s trust in him.

At the very least, he wanted to show He Yijun that he had a formidable background and wouldn’t recklessly set a trap for his business partners.

However, Jiang Qin’s timing was unfortunate. He arrived just as He Yijun was scolding his high school-aged daughter. The argument was audible from a distance.

Jiang Qin pursed his lips, thinking it best to leave, as family matters were not something outsiders should get involved in. But when He Yijun heard of his arrival, he immediately brought his daughter to the meeting room.

“Do you see?”

“See what?”

“This is Jiang Qin from Linchuan University, the recent winner of Linchuan University’s inaugural all-campus academic competition, becoming the first ‘Star of Learning’ in the university’s history. Can’t you learn from him? Even just getting passing grades would make me proud.”

“??????”

Jiang Qin’s mouth twisted awkwardly, thinking how impressively He Yijun remembered the details. He couldn’t even repeat that speech himself so fluently.

No wonder Dong Wenhao and Wei Lanlan looked so awkward when they left Wanzhong Mall the other day. Not just them, even Jiang Qin himself found it cringeworthy.

“What? A Star of Learning? I’m the Mother of Ultra, then!”

He Yijun’s daughter was pretty with her neat bangs and long hair, standing about 1.65 meters tall, but she had a defiant personality and didn’t like to look people in the eye, a classic case of teenage rebellion.

Hearing about academic awards and passing grades, the girl exploded with frustration, as if being asked to pass her exams was an impossible demand. She kicked open the door and stormed out.

“Sorry about that, Jiang. I’ve been too busy to discipline her properly, and she’s becoming more disobedient,” He Yijun said with an awkward smile, sitting down near Jiang Qin.

Jiang Qin waved his hand nonchalantly, “No worries, I’m not laughing.”

“Do you have any particular reason for visiting today?”

“I just wanted to mention to you, Mr. He, that the trophy for the Star of Learning is quite heavy.”

He Yijun nodded after hearing this, “Of course, knowledge is the heaviest thing in this world!”

Jiang Qin’s mouth twitched slightly, thinking if he had known the award held such significance for He Yijun, he would have spared himself this visit.

Chapter 150: My Little Hands are Cold

TL: Etude

After returning from Wanzhong Mall, Jiang Qin stayed in Room 208 and did not leave.

The content team’s pre-launch activities had already begun, and many registered users were aware of the upcoming group-buying product. Guided discussions and opinions were emerging in droves.

Concerns were raised about delivery issues, product quality, and the extent of discounts.

Jiang Qin’s policy was to not respond too much for the time being, waiting for the product launch when the content team would address these issues in an overly flattering manner.

“Boss, the school’s administrative office has delivered goods, the truck is loaded with brand new computers and heaters!”

“Hurry, hurry, receive the goods, with both hands!”

Following Wen Jinrui’s voice, Jiang Qin saw a group of workers carrying computers, water dispensers, and heaters into the Entrepreneurship Center.

On Friday, the temperature dropped suddenly due to a cold wave.

In the morning, when Jiang Qin went to wash up, he found that the water left in the mop bucket had frozen.

Standing outside and exhaling, a white mist formed.

The Entrepreneurship Center was located in a remote area, so the heating was not as strong as in the teaching buildings. Therefore, the three heaters supported by the school were very useful, compensating for the lack of heat from the central heating system.

Cao Xinyue, using the excuse of making a PowerPoint presentation, moved in with Hong Yan and Tang Lin, essentially to enjoy the warmth of the heaters.

Soon, Professor Yan also came over, wrapped in a blanket, and decided to stay.

The heating pipes were arranged in an ‘N’ shape, with hot water pumped to the roof and then flowing down to the lower floors by gravity. So, when the entire building was cold, the first floor’s water outlet was usually the coldest.

Professor Yan, being elderly and sensitive to cold, had a quirky personality and did not want to take advantage of the school’s resources.

Thus, the 2008 version of “sponging for warmth” came into being.

Originally, there were sixteen employees in 208, plus four from the main office, making a total of twenty people.

A crowd does not always mean liveliness, but it was indeed warmer.

The old professor sat opposite Jiang Qin, brewed a pot of tea, squinted his eyes, put on his reading glasses, and began to leisurely read the newspaper.

The others were busy typing on their computers, silent for a long time. The atmosphere was quiet, but anyone could feel a clear sense of urgency.

Perhaps it was the warmth of their breath, the heat from the heaters, or the steam from Professor Yan’s teapot, but the windows of 208 were fogged up.

“Boss, someone from Wanzhong Mall called, hoping to change the delivery time from 8 pm that day to 8 am the next morning.”

Jiang Qin looked up expressionlessly: “Who made the call? How dare they disrespect the first ‘Star of Learning’ from Linchuan University?”

“It was a manager from the freight department, surnamed Zhang. They said they were too busy during the holiday period and couldn’t manage.”

“Dong Wenhao, why argue with them? If there’s a problem, why not report it to a higher-up instead of calling a partner? Our cooperation is business to business. He Yi-Jun appointed Yue Zhu as the liaison. Unless Yue Zhu requests it, we will not entertain any other demands.”

“What if Manager Yue agrees to change the time? Do we really have to reschedule?”

Jiang Qin waved his hand: “Definitely, Yue Zhu did not agree. They must be trying to negotiate with us behind the scenes. Tell them we can change the time, but I will immediately go to report to Manager Yue. They should back off then.”

Dong Wenhao, somewhat skeptical, followed Jiang Qin’s instructions and made a call back, saying he would report to Manager Yue. Immediately, Manager Zhang backpedaled, saying Manager Yue was busy and it was better not to bother him. They decided to stick to the original delivery time and manage it on their end.

“Boss, they’re not changing the time now,” Dong Wenhao said, stunned.

“In the future, there will be many such incidents. It’s easy to see the king of hell but hard to deal with his minions. As decisions are implemented at each level, everyone will have their own ideas. Don’t give face to just anyone. Otherwise, it’s easy to be taken advantage of.”

As he finished speaking, Professor Yan couldn’t help but glance at Jiang Qin, his curiosity deepening.

He couldn’t understand how Jiang Qin, with his sharp insight that could see through surface appearances to the core, had honed such a skill.

He was only eighteen years old and couldn’t possibly have struggled in the world of human relationships. It was truly baffling.

“Which courses are you taught at the School of Finance?” Professor Yan suddenly asked.

Jiang Qin lifted his head: “I don’t know.”

“?????”

“What are ‘courses’?” Jiang Qin asked, looking puzzled.

Professor Yan pursed his lips, took a sip of his tea, and fell silent.

Meanwhile, Tang Lin was secretly observing Jiang Qin, comparing him with Xue Gang. She suddenly realized that Xue Gang’s brilliant image as the Student Union President seemed a bit dim in comparison.

Jiang Qin truly possessed a unique charisma, seemingly operating on a different level than the college boys she knew.

At first, Tang Lin thought Jiang Qin was just somewhat handsome.

But now, she felt as if he was radiating light, and she began to understand why he was a target of competition among the school beauties.

Such a guy might not appear glamorous at first glance, but upon closer interaction, one would discover he knew many things unknown to them, his mind filled with a wealth of knowledge.

“Everyone, keep up the good work. I have other things to take care of,” Jiang Qin announced.

“Boss, need any help?”

“No need, I am the boss. Leading the charge is my responsibility. Leave the toughest tasks to me!”

Jiang Qin’s gaze grew more profound, and then he resolutely left room 208 to pick up Feng Nanshu from the girls’ dormitory.

The class reunion of Finance Class 4 was tonight, as was the final debate competition of Linchuan University.

Upon arriving downstairs, the girls of room 503 came down, all dressed up elegantly, even the usually reclusive Wang Haini had changed into a ladylike khaki trench coat.

Feng Nanshu was the most beautiful, still radiating a compelling goddess-like aura. As she descended the stairs, she appeared aloof, but her eyes sparkled upon seeing Jiang Qin at the bottom.

“Jiang Qin.”

Feng Nanshu called out his name in a soft and sweet tone.

“Aren’t you cold wearing that?” Jiang Qin asked, pinching her coat to check its thickness.

The wealthy girl shook her head, pulling at the sweater inside: “Not cold, the sweater is thick.”

“Jiang Qin, are you really not coming to the party with us?”

Gao Wenhui also came out from the doorway.

“Tonight, I have other plans. Just go and have fun. Feng Nanshu is with me.”

Hearing this, Feng Nanshu couldn’t help but look up, her clear eyes sparkling with a hint of joy.

Gao Wenhui felt a bit regretful, not because Jiang Qin wasn’t attending, as after all, it was a Class 4 gathering and unrelated to Class 3. But everyone knew that wherever Jiang Qin didn’t go, Feng Nanshu wouldn’t either.

She remembered a saying, “A married daughter is like water thrown out.”

Feng Nanshu now seemed just like that, devotedly following her partner.

Then, the two groups split ways, one heading to the school gate to hail a taxi, and the other crossing the overpass towards the central auditorium in the eastern campus.

The chill of the evening was intense. Jiang Qin and Feng Nanshu walked slowly on the overpass, their breath turning visibly colder in the fading light.

“Jiang Qin, I’m cold.”

Feng Nanshu’s footsteps echoed on the overpass, her fluffy sheepskin boots making a tapping sound.

“Didn’t you just say you weren’t cold?”

Feng Nanshu extended her hand expressionlessly from her sleeve: “My little hands are icy cold, try them if you don’t believe me.”

“Ah, who would’ve thought I’d be such a warm-hearted person since childhood.”

Jiang Qin spoke earnestly and took her delicate, soft hand into his own pocket.

“My other hand is also ice-cold,” Feng Nanshu said softly.

The other one?

Put it in my pocket too?

Wouldn’t that be like an embrace?

“Let’s warm up this one first, and then I’ll switch sides later,” Jiang Qin said, undeterred.

“Oh.”

Feng Nanshu hummed expressionlessly, appearing even colder than the early winter night.

The evening of winter is fleeting. As they reached the middle of the overpass, the lights suddenly turned on. The cold light cast their elongated shadows on the ground, and the mist from their breath became more visible.

A campus photographer standing on the overpass was startled upon seeing their silhouettes and quickly snapped a photo.

After a while, Jiang Qin and Feng Nanshu arrived at the central auditorium. The entrance was brightly lit, with participants and spectators of the debate competition entering in an orderly manner.

Zhuang Siyu was organizing students at the entrance. Spotting Jiang Qin, she walked over.

“Junior, your seat is arranged. It’s in the second row, numbers 2012 and 2013.”

“Has the debate topic changed?”

“You’ll see once you go in.”

Jiang Qin, holding Feng Nanshu’s hand, walked into the auditorium. From a higher vantage point, they could see two banners hanging above the stage.

One was the forum’s sponsorship banner, and the other displayed the debate topic.

Affirmative: Even if the outcome is bad, one should enjoy the process

Negative: If the outcome is bad, there’s no need to start at all

Jiang Qin took a deep breath and led Feng Nanshu towards their seats. Before they arrived, he saw Zhang Baiqing. Besides Zhang Baiqing, there was another familiar but not too close face, Yao Yanling, the president of the Literature Club.

Yao Yanling was taken aback to see Jiang Qin there, her expression shifting slightly, betraying some discomfort.

She had once harshly criticized Shi Miaomiao, deeming her writings worthless trash. Yet now, Shi Miaomiao had become the most popular writer on the forum.

Previously, because Jiang Qin had accepted Shi Miaomiao’s submissions, she had forced her society members to break off their collaboration with Zhihu. However, Jiang Qin had made it to the Linchuan Youth Daily and even became a sponsor of the debate competition.

In just three short months, everything had changed rapidly, leaving the domineering senior sister somewhat embarrassed.

As she watched Jiang Qin approaching, she expected him to greet her, perhaps call her “senior.” Yet, she was unsure how to respond.

The next second, Jiang Qin indeed spoke.

“Principal Zhang, it’s great to see you again. I’m overwhelmed with emotion.”