◎If I can’t even protect you, then I’m truly incompetent.◎

Zhongping Road, Liseng Mansion.

Yue Jincheng and Nick were neck-and-neck in their game of Bourré. In the final round, Yue Jincheng ended with a pair of kings, narrowly edging out his opponent.

Nick admired, “Your memory is as sharp as ever.”

Yue Jincheng loosened his collar to cool off and handed Nick a glass of Bacardi. “You’re the impressive one. Even I was surprised—just based on a proposal that didn’t bear my name, you could identify it as my work.”

Nick crossed his legs, clinking glasses with a confident smile. “Of course. I’ve collaborated with you on so many projects—I’m deeply familiar with your thought process and style. When I saw those complex, razor-sharp model calculations and cost structures, I almost thought I misread the name!”

Yue Jincheng chuckled. “With an outstanding general like you at Osto, I naturally want to follow.”

“No,” Nick said dismissively in awkward Chinese. “Don’t touch me, old man.”

The clumsy pronunciation made Yue Jincheng burst into laughter.

They clinked glasses and downed their drinks in one satisfying gulp.

As the alcohol took effect, Yue Jincheng asked casually, “Was there another company whose content was also impressive?”

“I know—it was Changdi,” Nick replied. “But its proposal overlapped significantly with Jinyu’s core content. I couldn’t show favoritism.”

Yue Jincheng smiled. “So why didn’t you disqualify Changdi as well?”

“Because the person in charge was a woman.” Nick raised an eyebrow. “You’re always ruthless toward your own kind, but when it comes to women, you’re unusually gentlemanly.”

This was all in jest. They’d both seen enough schemes and traps in the pursuit of profit.

“So, this Miss Fu—is she your red rose?” This was what Nick was most curious about.

Yue Jincheng poured himself another drink, subtly avoiding the probing gaze.

Then he answered calmly, “No.”

“Great!” Nick exclaimed excitedly. “Since I helped you this time, you owe me a favor. Nini’s on vacation here—you two absolutely must meet!”

Yue Jincheng felt a headache coming on.

Nini was Nick’s younger sister, who had long harbored an interest in him.

It was hard to refuse someone who had done him a favor.

Nick, the sly fox, never gave up an opportunity to create hope for his sister.

________________________________________

Though Fu Jiaxi returned empty-handed this time, with Changdi losing the bid, the news spread quickly within the industry. Qin He was disqualified by the client on the grounds of “integrity,” and the underlying reasons weren’t hard to guess.

Qin He was now branded as disloyal and untrustworthy, making it difficult for him to find footing in the industry.

Within just two days, a colleague told Fu Jiaxi, “Jiaxi, did you hear? Qin He has resigned from Jinyu.”

Officially, it was framed as a personal career choice—a voluntary resignation.

In reality, it was the last shred of dignity the capital allowed him.

Fu Jiaxi reacted indifferently. Healthy competition was normal, but resorting to any means necessary for the sake of ambition only led to self-destruction. It wasn’t worth pitying.

________________________________________

The technical seminar had been running nonstop since nine in the morning. The discussion over a particular process reflux became deadlocked. Finally, Yue Jincheng broke the stalemate by referencing international industry standards, unifying everyone’s stance.

At five o’clock, the meeting adjourned. He returned to his office, slumping into his chair with exhaustion weighing heavily on his shoulders.

A knock on the door startled him back to attention. Straightening his posture, he composed himself.

The visitor was Jin Ming, head of the group’s operations department.

“President Yue, your grasp of direction during the meeting was impeccable. The latest equipment I’ve researched matches the precision levels you mentioned,” Jin Ming praised enthusiastically, holding nothing back.

Yue Jincheng’s smile was measured, nodding slightly. “Director Jin has done extensive research—your dedication and professionalism are commendable. Equipment procurement will require your meticulous oversight.”

“I’ll personally ensure everything is handled properly. Please rest assured,” Jin Ming smoothly proposed, “President Yue, let Minghang assist. He can visit manufacturers and help with negotiations.”

Minghang was none other than the dissolute son of Uncle Yin Zhen, utterly lacking in discipline.

Previously, after Aunt Yin criticized Fu Jiaxi, Yue Jincheng had sent Minghang to a subsidiary as a low-level salesperson.

Jin Ming, smooth and astute, seized this opportunity to officially protect the spoiled heir.

Yue Jincheng had been at the helm of Baifeng Group for five years, navigating a web of intricate relationships and complicated favors. Many times, compromise was unavoidable—a common ailment of family businesses.

He smiled. “I always thought Director Jin was close to my second brother. I didn’t expect you to have such strong ties with my eldest uncle as well.”

Jin Ming replied, “I’m genuinely making this suggestion from the perspective of nurturing talent within the group. Young people have immense potential. He’s smart—I believe that with proper guidance, he can improve.”

Yue Jincheng’s gaze flickered to Jin Ming’s cufflinks. Suddenly, he remarked, “Those agate cufflinks look nice.”

Jin Ming froze, instinctively pulling his hand back slightly—a movement so subtle that only Yue Jincheng caught it.

He laughed it off, displaying the cufflinks openly. “My wife bought them. It’s an honor to receive your praise.”

After Jin Ming left, Jiao Rui entered just in time.

The door had barely closed when Yue Jincheng’s expression shifted, becoming cold and sharp.

“Director Jin came to report on work?” Jiao Rui handed over some documents.

“Greedy and without principles,” Yue Jincheng muttered, not even bothering to screw the cap back onto his pen as he pressed his fingers to his temples.

Seeing his obvious fatigue, Jiao Rui cautiously asked, “Shall I cancel your dinner at eight?”

Returning home would only mean facing an empty, cold house anyway. Might as well grab a bite while he was out.

Jiao Rui understood and instructed an assistant to fetch his suit from the car.

Just then, Yue Jincheng’s phone rang.

Yue Jiayi’s crisp voice came through. “Daddy! Are you off work yet? Hurry home for dinner! Mommy and I are waiting for you!”

Yue Jincheng reflexively stood up, grabbed his car keys, and headed out. “Alright, I’m on my way.”

Five minutes later, Jiao Rui returned with the suit, staring blankly at the empty office.

________________________________________

“Daddy, these are the little red flowers I got this week. Ten of them can be exchanged for a gift with the teacher.” Yue Jiayi nestled in Yue Jincheng’s arms, chattering nonstop.

“What gift did you exchange for?”

“Barbie doll.”

The answer was unexpected. Yue Jincheng asked, “Why?”

“Because my best friend, Xiaoshuni, really likes it, but she hasn’t collected enough red flowers yet. When I gave it to her, she was so happy!”

Fu Jiaxi, standing by the dining table, gently reminded him, “Last week, you told me your best friend was Yangyang.”

Yue Jiayi scratched his head sheepishly. “Sorry, Mommy, I forgot.”

Yue Jincheng chuckled at his son’s antics. “Plastic friendships.”

Fu Jiaxi added, “Just like someone else I know—such a heartbreaker.”

Yue Jiayi immediately looked at Yue Jincheng with wide, innocent eyes.

Yue Jincheng whispered, “You little rascal, your mom’s watching.”

Fu Jiaxi had been standing by the dining table, her fingers absentmindedly rubbing the thermos.

“Daddy, Mommy made you soup especially!” Yue Jiayi announced loudly.

Fu Jiaxi was momentarily speechless.

“She spent the whole afternoon making it! Daddy, you have to drink every last drop!”

Yue Jincheng pinched his son’s cheek, beaming smugly. “I’ll take you to buy Legos this weekend.”

“Yay, yay, yay!” Yue Jiayi jumped and spun in place.

Yue Jincheng walked over to the dining table. “Let me handle it.”

Fu Jiaxi unscrewed the lid and gently pushed the thermos toward him.

They stood close together, the wall lamp casting slanted shadows that overlapped their silhouettes on the glass of the wine cabinet.

The chicken soup was fragrant and light, with no unnecessary seasoning.

Yue Jincheng rolled up his shirt sleeves and drank directly from the thermos without using a bowl.

The warmth of the soup soothed his stomach, and the tension in his brow gradually relaxed.

“Thank you,” Fu Jiaxi said softly.

“For what?” Yue Jincheng slowly blew on the hot soup, his tone calm. “For letting you get bullied? If I couldn’t even protect you, then I’d be truly incompetent.”

Fu Jiaxi replied, “I’ve reflected on what you said to me the other day.”

“Have you come to accept it now?” he asked.

“Adapting to circumstances, responding flexibly.” Fu Jiaxi humbly acknowledged his advice.

“It’s fine if you don’t agree.”

I have my own ways to help you.

He didn’t say the second half aloud, swallowing it along with the soup.

There was still a little soup left, and Fu Jiaxi assumed he’d had enough.

“I’ve been in meetings all day,” Yue Jincheng lowered his voice, clutching the thermos tightly. “I haven’t eaten much.”

His weary expression made him look somewhat pitiful.

Fu Jiaxi teased, “Didn’t Secretary Jiao get you anything to eat? If not, we should dock his pay.”

Yue Jincheng straightened up. “Alright, I’ll follow through tomorrow.”

Fu Jiaxi’s gaze lifted slightly, her eyes lively and mischievous. “Aren’t you afraid your subordinates will accuse you of abusing your power?”

“As long as they don’t say it to my face, I don’t care.”

Fu Jiaxi finally smiled, understanding his roundabout intentions.

“I’ll go make you a bowl of noodles,” she conceded.

This apartment in Tan Mansion was where Yue Jincheng moved after the divorce. The open kitchen was purely decorative, rarely used for cooking. The private residence manager regularly stocked fresh fruits and ingredients, ensuring the fridge wasn’t just for show.

Fu Jiaxi bustled about under the soft glow of the lights, her movements filtered through an almost surreal lens.

The flickering flames, boiling water, and bubbling noodles seemed to bring fleeting wisps of everyday life into the room.

Yue Jincheng leaned against the table, his eyes never leaving her figure.

Thoughts paused, time rewound—it felt as though they were in another dimension.

“It’s ready, eat up,” Fu Jiaxi turned off the stove, speaking plainly. “It’s late. Jiayi and I will head back first.”

Yue Jincheng stiffly nodded. “Alright.”

The door closed, leaving silence behind. The room temperature seemed to plummet rapidly.

He remembered—this estrangement was the reality of their current situation.

________________________________________

Over the past few days, Yue Jincheng had been caught up in endless social engagements, dealing with difficult clients and obligations. In the middle of an afternoon meeting, Jiao Rui noticed something was off when Yue Jincheng excused himself.

Following him into the office, Jiao Rui saw Yue Jincheng bent over, pressing his abdomen while rummaging through the drawer for medicine.

“President Yue, here’s some water.” Jiao Rui quickly handed over a cup. “Should we interrupt the meeting and take you to the hospital?”

Yue Jincheng waved dismissively, swallowing the pills in one go before returning to the meeting room.

Jiao Rui checked the time. After the meeting ended, there was still a dinner appointment. With an early flight scheduled for tomorrow, how could the boss possibly endure this?

Weighing the pros and cons, Jiao Rui devised a thoughtful plan.

Fu Jiaxi had just clocked out when she received the call.

Secretary Jiao began with a respectful “Sister Jiaxi,” followed by a heartfelt plea: “President Yue has been swamped these past few days, barely eating a proper meal. He’s not in good shape, and I think he needs a check-up, but I can’t persuade him.”

Jiao exaggerated slightly, aiming to tug at her heartstrings.

Fu Jiaxi was someone who held grudges but also remembered kindnesses.

Indeed, Yue Jincheng had helped her settle a score regarding Qin He.

Her heart softened momentarily, and she said, “I’ll see how things go tonight. If I have time, I’ll try to talk to him.”

Jiao Rui replied, “President Yue has another engagement tonight, ending around 8:30. Sister Jiaxi, thank you.”

Making more chicken soup seemed unnecessary now. After organizing her work for the next day, Fu Jiaxi stayed at the office until 8 p.m., timing her drive carefully.

Passing by a restaurant, she hesitated briefly before turning back to pick up a bowl of lemongrass clear soup.

As she approached Tan Mansion, Fu Jiaxi was about to signal her turn.

Suddenly, a familiar black Bentley came into view.

Yue Jincheng’s car was parked by the roadside. A tall, fair-skinned foreign woman cheerfully opened the passenger door and got in.

Soon, the Bentley’s taillights flashed faintly as it merged onto the main road.

Inside her car, the citrusy aroma of lemongrass mingled with the rising steam.

After a few seconds of silence, Fu Jiaxi chuckled softly to herself.

She laughed at her own overflowing sympathy and misplaced compassion.

Being softhearted was like indulging in junk food—it only harmed oneself in the long run.

Fu Jiaxi stepped out of her car, walking a few steps before pausing to glance back.

The driveway of Tan Mansion was exquisitely designed—white railings with vintage floral patterns flanked by lush, untamed Nanjing parasol trees.

In an instant, all the streetlights lit up.

The straight road stretched endlessly, bathed in radiant light, dreamlike and seemingly without end.

But even the longest roads eventually reached their destination.

People leave, love fades, and paths narrow.

Once narrowed, the road ahead could only accommodate one person.

Fu Jiaxi’s expression grew cold. With a slight lift of her chin, she casually tossed the steaming soup into the trash bin.

Chapter 13: Proof

◎I’m willing to be at your service.◎

Nick was about to return to the U.S. after completing his work.

Yue Jincheng came to see him off. Nick, feeling guilty, repeatedly apologized for his sister’s impulsive actions.

The previous week, Yue Jincheng had agreed to have dinner with Nini as a favor to Nick.

Afterward, Nini’s impression of Yue Jincheng changed dramatically. She cursed him as a scumbag and prayed to God to forgive her temporary blindness, lamenting that she shouldn’t have thrown ice water at him but boiling water instead.

Nick felt his sister’s behavior was extremely impolite.

With gentlemanly grace, Yue Jincheng brushed it off. “It’s fine. The ice water on my face was refreshing—it helped cool me down.”

After seeing Nick off, Yue Jincheng heaved a sigh of relief. Finally, the lingering trouble of unwelcome romantic interest was resolved.

That day, while driving Nini to the restaurant, Yue Jincheng spent the entire ride sending voice messages to different people, using flirtatious and ambiguous tones. Nini was utterly shocked.

“Who are they?” she asked.

“Of course, they’re my close confidantes,” Yue Jincheng replied smoothly.

With his striking looks, such flirtatious remarks sounded perfectly natural coming from him.

Nini bluntly said, “What you’re doing is wrong.”

Yue Jincheng pretended to be confused. “What’s wrong? I treat all my confidantes equally.”

Nini exclaimed, “Oh my God!” and almost slapped him right there in the car.

Self-sabotage—it was a surefire way to prevent future entanglements.

Yue Jincheng didn’t care.

On the way back, he checked his phone several times.

For the past week, Fu Jiaxi hadn’t responded to any of his WeChat messages.

Later, he deliberately steered the conversation toward matters involving their son, but again, his efforts fell flat.

Yue Jincheng even went so far as to park near Changdi Securities’ building during working hours. He timed it carefully, watching as Fu Jiaxi stepped out of her car, radiant and confident. She slipped into high heels, wearing a sleek white jumpsuit that accentuated her fair skin. Her posture was upright, her strides confident and graceful.

Yue Jincheng realized—she hadn’t disappeared at all.

________________________________________

At 10 a.m., Jiao Rui came to the office to report on work and handed over a file folder.

“President Yue, your medical examination report is here.” Jiao Rui said, “Director Lin suggests you continue with your twice-weekly strength training and moderate alcohol consumption.”

Yue Jincheng’s physical fitness score was excellent. This report would undergo notarization and be disclosed alongside the company’s semi-annual performance report. In the capital market, having a qualified leader at the helm of a top-tier enterprise added significant value.

“You’ve been overwhelmed with work recently, and I noticed your condition wasn’t great—you were reluctant to get the check-up.” Jiao Rui finally relaxed, remarking, “Thankfully, I managed to convince Sister Jiaxi to help persuade you.”

Yue Jincheng suddenly looked up. “You contacted her?”

“Yes, I called her—two Tuesdays ago. She agreed to visit you.” Jiao Rui reported truthfully. “Because you only listen to Sister Jiaxi.”

“When exactly?”

“The 26th, Tuesday.” The secretary’s sense of time was precise.

Yue Jincheng’s expression darkened instantly.

Jiao Rui, highly perceptive, asked professionally, “President Yue, do you need to arrange anything?”

Yue Jincheng glared at him like a tiger. “Get out.”

Unable to shake off his frustration, Yue Jincheng’s anger surged. He immediately called the HR department on the internal line.

The next day, an official transfer order was issued—Jiao Rui was reassigned to a subsidiary in Jincheng.

At the same time, personnel changes also affected Fu Jiaxi.

Her promotion had been kept under wraps until now. Despite the Osto project ending in failure, its two dramatic reversals highlighted her ability to step up in a crisis. Though they lost the bid, her performance left a strong and memorable impression on the industry, giving Changdi Securities a significant boost.

Recognition and reward were due, and Fu Jiaxi deserved it.

As expected, during the morning meeting, President Xu personally announced the personnel appointment: Fu Jiaxi was officially promoted to head of the business department.

Spontaneous applause erupted, and her team members presented her with bouquets to celebrate.

Fu Jiaxi was recognized, affirmed, and more importantly, she was absolutely certain that every choice she made was the right one.

Half an hour later, the administrative staff informed her to visit President Xu’s office.

Before heading there, Fu Jiaxi graciously accepted her colleagues’ congratulations. “Thank you, everyone! I’ll treat you all to dinner tonight!”

“President Xu,” Fu Jiaxi knocked on the door.

“Jiaxi, come in and sit down.” President Xu closed the file in front of him and gestured for her to enter. “Your responsibilities and pressures will increase moving forward. How do you feel? Do you have confidence?”

Fu Jiaxi replied firmly, “I’ll do my best not to let you or the company down.”

President Xu nodded approvingly. “You have the capability, and more importantly, resilience. What’s rarest is that you’re not stubborn—you understand methods and avoid recklessness. That’s excellent management thinking.”

Being recognized filled her with immense satisfaction.

“Moreover, you’re humble and low-key. If it weren’t for this unexpected turn of events, we wouldn’t have known about your deep ties with Baifeng Group.” President Xu shifted the topic smoothly. “At last year’s summit in Hangzhou, President Yue’s speech left a profound impression—so young, so accomplished, so visionary. With just a word from him, he resolved such a significant issue for us.”

President Xu’s tone grew increasingly enthusiastic, clearly conveying his delight and anticipation.

Fu Jiaxi realized something, and the fiery glow in her eyes gradually dimmed.

“President Xu, I currently have no connection with Baifeng Group.”

“No connection now, but past relationships can’t simply be severed,” President Xu chuckled. “While we should always look forward and embrace new beginnings, in a sense, if you truly face difficulties, President Yue wouldn’t stand idly by.”

Fu Jiaxi remained silent, standing quietly in front of the desk.

“There’s an upcoming project in Hong Kong that will soon announce its tender. This is an excellent opportunity for the company and the first challenge you’ll face after taking office.” President Xu segued naturally. “Baifeng Group originated in Hong Kong, and President Yue grew up there too, didn’t he?”

Fu Jiaxi’s hand, resting loosely by her side, slowly relaxed. Her gaze was calm as she nodded slightly. “President Xu, I understand.”

President Xu was evidently pleased, saying sincerely, “Jiaxi, I look forward to a mutually beneficial relationship where both the company and you grow and thrive together.”

The farewell dinner for her colleagues proceeded as planned—pleasant, harmonious, and like a perfect prelude to the future.

Fu Jiaxi graciously accepted every congratulatory remark, humbly returning each toast.

After the meal, she meticulously ensured all her colleagues were safely sent home.

The next day, everyone approached the new changes with high spirits.

Upon logging into the OA system, however, what greeted them was Fu Jiaxi’s resignation application.

________________________________________

“President Yue, you have a dinner engagement at Nan Garden at 6 p.m., and an overseas video conference at 9 a.m. tomorrow. Would you prefer to work from home, or shall I arrange for the driver to pick you up?”

After Jiao Rui’s transfer, the new secretary was competent—meticulous and thorough. She confirmed Yue Jincheng’s schedule two hours in advance.

His phone buzzed—it was a message from Yue Mingxin: Brother, Sister Jiaxi is here at home. Come back quickly.

Yue Jincheng immediately told the secretary, “Cancel tonight’s dinner.”

Today was the routine visit day when Yue Jiayi came here for dinner to see their grandfather.

But the old man had been called away on urgent business, leaving only Yue Mingxin at home.

The Yue family was notorious for their calculating nature, and Fu Jiaxi had suffered many losses at their hands in the past.

Even when they were still a family, she had always favored Yue Mingxin’s straightforward personality.

Seizing this rare opportunity, Yue Mingxin naturally refused to let her leave. While chatting animatedly with Fu Jiaxi, she sent a message to Yue Jincheng.

When Yue Jincheng returned, Fu Jiaxi reacted indifferently.

Yue Jiayi called out, “Daddy.”

Yue Jincheng went to play Legos with him for a while.

Not long after, a company car arrived unexpectedly—a procurement quote required urgent approval.

The secretary stayed outside, discussing business matters with Yue Jincheng in the courtyard.

“Oh, so Brother really changed secretaries,” Yue Mingxin remarked.

Fu Jiaxi asked, “What happened to Secretary Jiao?”

“He was reassigned to a subsidiary to oversee a project. It’s said he made a mistake—demoted under the guise of promotion,” Yue Mingxin explained. “My brother hired a female secretary, added a female bodyguard, and even recruited a female driver through the administrative department.”

Fu Jiaxi glanced out the window, her gaze landing on the elegant new secretary.

Young, well-proportioned, and exuding charm, she stood beside Yue Jincheng—a striking contrast in pristine white skirts and sleek black suits. Truly eye-catching.

Sensing her gaze, Yue Jincheng suddenly looked over.

Fu Jiaxi instantly turned her head, pretending to focus on her son building Legos.

Unable to resist Yue Mingxin’s relentless persuasion, she reluctantly agreed to go out for dinner.

“Let me change clothes first—you’re not allowed to run away!”

Fu Jiaxi smiled. “I’m not a deserter.”

As she headed upstairs, Fu Jiaxi held her water cup, her fingers absently rubbing the rim, lost in thought for a brief moment.

“Trouble at work?” Yue Jincheng appeared behind her unexpectedly. “Why the sudden resignation?”

Fu Jiaxi turned slightly, her initial reaction revealing her true emotions.

Catching her sense of loss, she decided against fabricating excuses.

Instead, she revealed everything, her tone tinged with disappointment. “It’s my own vanity—I mistakenly thought I was truly recognized.”

No, there was genuine recognition too.

Recognition of Baifeng Group, of Yue Jincheng, and of her having such an impressive ex-husband.

Yue Jincheng said, “The promotion and raise benefit you. Let them say what they want; you do your part. There’s no necessary correlation. From their perspective, your leader’s calculations are sharp and clear—it shows intelligence. In the future, working with them won’t leave you too passive.”

Objectively speaking, he was right. But no one seemed to care about how she felt.

Of course.

In a world driven by material desires, who would patiently explore the quiet joys hidden in her heart?

Yue Jincheng wasn’t accustomed to her wandering, melancholic gaze—tinged with a hint of disappointment.

Fu Jiaxi gave a faint smile. “I can’t rely on your reputation to intimidate others.”

Yue Jincheng didn’t hesitate for a second. “Why not? I’m willing to be at your service.”

Fu Jiaxi cleared her throat with a sip of water. “Still, I can’t. The divorce agreement was clear—I can’t violate it.”

Yue Jincheng flinched at those two words. “Whether it’s violated or not is my decision.”

Fu Jiaxi’s tone was light. “Even so, it’s not appropriate. If word gets out, how will your female secretary, female driver, and female bodyguard perceive it? Misunderstandings could arise.”

“No, I…”

“Mommy—”

“Alright, my son’s calling me.”

Fu Jiaxi left gracefully. Yue Jincheng stayed rooted in place, as if holding a burning coal, robbed of any chance to explain.

________________________________________

The next morning, Jiao Rui entered the elevator still in a daze.

“Good morning, Secretary Jiao.”

“Good morning, Secretary Jiao.”

Colleagues greeted him, grounding him in reality.

He had been asleep when the call woke him. Seeing the caller ID, he reflexively answered quickly.

A call from Yue Jincheng at this hour meant something serious had occurred.

“President Yue,” Jiao Rui braced himself.

The boss’s voice was slightly hoarse. “Be at work promptly at 9 a.m. tomorrow.”

“Huh?”

“You’re reinstated, effective immediately.” Yue Jincheng’s tone was impatient.

An excellent administrative secretary’s self-discipline was to adjust their state quickly, adapt their role, and rise to the challenge of important tasks!

“President Yue, here’s your black coffee. A market department meeting in 20 minutes, Ogilvy’s representative arrives at 11, and lunch is arranged at Yuxing Restaurant. In the afternoon, you’ll attend the technical seminar with 15 minutes reserved for your summary.”

Yue Jincheng wasn’t wearing a suit today. Instead, he wore a light gray, knee-length, oversized hooded coat that accentuated his height and proportions. Any length of clothing seemed tailored for him.

The casual attire softened his demeanor slightly, though his gaze remained icy. Yue Jincheng interrupted, his purpose clear. “Do you have your phone?”

“Yes.”

…

When Fu Jiaxi saw the sudden video call request, she was surprised.

Jiao Rui rarely contacted her this way—usually opting for text messages when necessary.

She accepted the call. “Secretary Jiao?”

The signal was strong, and the video quality was clear.

Jiao Rui’s tone was upbeat. “I’ve been transferred back! Sister Jiaxi, I’m still in the secretary position, just like before.”

Fu Jiaxi hesitated before nodding slightly. “Oh, congratulations.”

Jiao Rui continued, “Sister Jiaxi, I’m very dedicated. My schedule is packed, but rest assured—I’ll stay by President Yue’s side at all times.”

“…”

After ending the call, Fu Jiaxi found it all rather baffling.

Soon, Jiao Rui sent a short video clip filmed on-site.

After nearly a 360-degree panoramic sweep of the office, the backlight from the floor-to-ceiling windows illuminated someone who was “accidentally” captured in the frame.

Yue Jincheng sat upright, handsome and dignified, seemingly coexisting with brilliance.

Jiao Rui said, “Sister Jiaxi, look—President Yue is sitting here signing documents. There are no other secretaries in the office. Truly.”