“There are two deputy directors and one director general outside, among others whom I won’t mention for now—you’ll gradually get to know them. My main intention is to have you work directly under my office.”
“Usually, there isn’t much to do. Occasionally, you might travel on business with me or your immediate supervisor, but you’ll primarily be based locally. The main consideration is that if I placed you elsewhere, even though I could look after you, it would still be inconvenient. It’s better to have you directly under me. What do you think?”
Zhao Ran replied, “I’m fine with whatever arrangement, but will it affect you, Auntie? After all, our relationship…”
Mother Yin shook her head and said, “There’s no need to worry about that. I am the least afraid of what others might say. Besides, it’s not a big deal—I’m just looking after my future son-in-law. Who would cause trouble over such a matter? Moreover, your qualifications and background meet the standards. I merely expedited the process a little.”
Only then did Zhao Ran set aside his concerns. “Then I have no issues.”
Mother Yin said, “Good. Since that’s settled, I’ll arrange your onboarding. In a moment, I’ll have Xiao Li take you to the office to get acquainted. You can start work tomorrow.” After chatting a while longer in Mother Yin’s office, where she outlined a few things to note, she called Secretary Li to take Zhao Ran around and familiarize him with the environment.
By the end of the day, Zhao Ran had a clear understanding of the situation.
The office was small, with only four people. The leaders had their own private offices, while the four staff members, including him, worked together in one room. One of them was Secretary Li, named Li Na, who was twenty-nine years old and had a boyfriend—they had been together since university and were likely to marry soon. The other two, Sister Wang and Brother Zhou, were both in their forties, with limited career prospects, simply waiting in the office until retirement.
Usually, Zhao Ran interacted more with Li Na, while he barely spoke with the other two unless necessary.
Li Na was young, capable, and sported short hair. She was steady and reliable in her work. She and Zhao Ran got along well, though their interactions remained strictly friendly.
One day, Zhao Ran returned from a business trip and brought back gifts for everyone.
When they saw Zhao Ran, they all greeted him. He distributed the gifts to Sister Wang and Brother Zhou, then handed Li Na hers, giving her a wink. Li Na immediately understood that hers was different from the others and playfully said, “Thank you, handsome.”
Zhao Ran and she were good friends and often joked around. He smiled at her and returned to his desk.
They sat facing each other. Zhao Ran leaned to the side, tilted his head, and gestured toward the adjacent room, asking in a low voice, “Is she in?”
Li Na knew who he meant—everyone was aware of their relationship. She nodded and said, “Yes.”
Zhao Ran acknowledged her response and stood up to leave.
“Come in.” Zhao Ran knocked on the door and heard a response from inside.
He pushed the door open and saw Mother Yin sitting on the sofa across from him, drinking tea. Her face always bore a light layer of makeup—her skin was naturally flawless, so she only applied subtle enhancements, making her look effortlessly elegant. Her hair was left down, and she wore a pair of high-heeled leather boots with black leggings. Her long cashmere sweater was complemented by a silver brooch pinned to her chest, simple yet sophisticated.
“Mayor Zheng,” Zhao Ran addressed her.
Mother Yin smiled faintly and said, “There’s no need for such formality when we’re alone. Didn’t we already discuss this the other day? You and Yueyue are practically settled—it’s just a matter of time. Don’t be reserved. Just call me Mom. Have a seat.”