novelraw Chapter 786: Auntie Ouyang
Chapter 786: Auntie Ouyang
4:00 PM.
Yancheng, Chang'an District, TC Private Club.
In the four-story multi-functional leisure and entertainment area, the air was filled with a blend of perfume and high-end fragrance scents.
There weren't many guests, just a few scattered here and there in the booths, all of them women dressed impeccably and carrying themselves with ease.
Although there was no written rule stating it was for women only, as Yancheng's first club to explicitly target high-end female services with a mysterious background, it had long become an unspoken private sanctuary for local socialites and female entrepreneurs.
It not only offered top-tier SPA hydrotherapy, private yoga sessions, and tranquil tea rooms, but its core appeal lay in its hidden class barrier.
It operated on a strict invitation-only system, sharing membership networks with some international top-tier clubs, initially only receiving foreign guests.
Because of this, for a while now, it had quietly attracted Yancheng's most elite group of female members.
The interior was quiet and relaxed.
Some had just finished treatments in the hydrotherapy room and were flipping through the latest fashion magazines in the lounge area.Some had just come down from the yoga studio or private dance classes on the second floor, walking down the hallway while chatting in low voices.
Others sat in the tea room, facing the view outside the window, leisurely savoring exquisite French pastries.
Conversations naturally transitioned from the runways of Paris Fashion Week to some upcoming high-yield trust products.
"Qianqian."
"Boss Qian is here?"
"Yaqian, just finished yoga? Come sit over here."
A series of warm and familiar greetings sounded one after another.
At the entrance, a tall, sexy figure walked in.
Zhao Yaqian, having just finished a private yoga session and showered, had changed into a simple striped slip dress.
The soft silk fabric clung tightly to her delicate, youthful, and vibrant curves.
Beneath the hem of her skirt, a pair of straight, full wineglass legs swayed gently, so pale they were almost dazzling.
A bright smile graced her face as she nodded to several familiar members.
Then she walked straight to the inner area, lazily sinking into a soft beanbag chair.
A waiter, quick on the uptake, immediately brought her a specially made low-calorie drink.
"Qianqian, I heard your [Yisha Beauty] is going to introduce that anti-aging project from Tokyo's Gexs?" a well-maintained lady asked curiously.
Zhao Yaqian took a sip of her drink, her tone natural and relaxed. "It's indeed finalized and will be implemented soon. When the time comes, all TC members will have priority access."
"I know this institution, it's very hard to book in Ginza. I never thought we'd get it in Yancheng too. Yaqian, you're amazing."
"Then in the future, we won't have to specifically fly to the Imperial Capital or Modu for top-tier treatments."
A chorus of friendly laughter and agreement rose around her.
Zhao Yaqian put down her glass, naturally blending into the conversation, responding with grace.
Clearly, she was already becoming familiar with and enjoying this social atmosphere.
And amidst the lively chatter, those seemingly casual yet subtly probing glances from those around her continued to linger on her faintly.
It was a mix of envy, curiosity, and a trace of extremely cautious respect.
In private, this circle had discussed this surprisingly young female owner of the TC Club quite a bit.
Not just because of her beauty and wealth, but more so because of her title as a council member of the [Smile Charity Foundation].
They were all worldly-wise and naturally understood what this foundation represented and the weight of this identity.
Therefore, an unspoken consensus had long circulated within the circle:
She was a carefully nurtured "kept bird" by a certain powerful figure with extensive connections.
But far from diminishing her standing, in the practical calculus, this had instead earned her more respect.
To be able to stand by the side of a man at that level and be entrusted with such resources and identity.
That in itself was proof of capability and value.
After quite a while, a waiter walked briskly over to Zhao Yaqian, leaned down, and whispered a few words.
The smile on Zhao Yaqian's face grew even brighter and more radiant.
She clapped her hands lightly, stood up nimbly, and said in a crisp voice,
"Oh dear, I almost forgot the main thing. I've set up a little experience area nearby, with some of my own recent perfume blending experiments and a few new products [Yisha] is about to launch. If you don't mind, why don't we all go take a look? Consider it a small token of my appreciation. If you like anything, you can take it back to try."
Her invitation was both generous and intimate, carrying the lively enthusiasm of a young girl sharing things she loved, making it hard to refuse.
"Then we must go see. Our Boss Qian's taste is definitely good."
"Perfect timing, I've been very interested in fragrances lately."
Amidst relaxed laughter and chatter, everyone gradually stood up and walked out of the leisure and entertainment area.
Turning a corner and passing through an elegant art corridor, they arrived at a carefully arranged independent exhibition space.
Soft spotlights shone on minimalist display shelves, with crystal-clear perfume bottles refracting captivating light.
Upon stepping inside, the previously scattered chatter and crisp sound of high heels unconsciously quieted down.
In the exhibition hall, besides the waiting waiters, there was one particularly eye-catching figure.
He stood out because, among the uniform sea of women, he was the only male.
And an exceptionally outstanding male at that.
He wore a simple charcoal gray cashmere sweater and black suit pants.
Without any extra accessories, they perfectly outlined his tall frame with broad shoulders and a narrow waist.
At that moment, he was casually leaning against a display shelf, his slender fingers idly toying with a slender-necked perfume bottle.
The profile of his face was as distinct as mountain ridges, with a high nose bridge. His slightly pursed thin lips and cool, pale skin created a strong visual impact under the lights.
His posture seemed relaxed and languid, but he was enveloped in the unique composure and noble restraint of someone in a high position.
That kind of elegant yet somewhat aloof, dangerously charming aura was like an invisible magnetic field.
The hearts of these noblewomen and socialites, who were used to all sorts of scenes, involuntarily skipped a beat.
For a moment, they were all slightly stunned.
Zhao Yaqian stood rooted to the spot, blinking her beautiful big eyes, thinking she was seeing things.
Noticing the commotion at the entrance.
The man turned around.
The light flowed with his movement, outlining his handsome facial features.
His gaze swept past the crowd, landing directly on Zhao Yaqian.
Then, the corners of his mouth lifted in a faint smile.
Like the warm sun melting the first winter snow, it instantly lit up his entire face and almost stole the breath of everyone present.
"Brother Song!" Zhao Yaqian's voice carried an unbelievable delight, the shock on her face instantly replaced by immense joy.
Forgetting all about social etiquette, like a happy little bird returning to its nest, she ran over with quick, tapping steps, "da da da," and threw herself directly into his arms.
Tang Song caught her steadily, his arm encircling her slender, soft waist, his eyes filled with doting affection and tenderness.
"Run slower, aren't you afraid of falling?"
"Why did you suddenly come? When did you return to Yancheng?"
"Just landed not long ago. I dropped my luggage at home and came straight to find you. So, surprised?"
"Yes! Super surprised! Love you, Brother Song!"
Zhao Yaqian didn't hide her love at all, planting loud kisses on his cheek.
"Mwah~ mwah~"
Behind them.
The ladies who had regained their composure exchanged looks of disbelief and intense curiosity.
The man before them was young, handsome, and his attire, while seemingly simple, was of exceptional quality.
More importantly, that kind of bearing and aura, impossible to fake, was simply impeccable.
All the previous speculations about the "patron" behind Zhao Yaqian now finally had a concrete and shocking answer.
So... he was actually this young, this top-tier?!
Tang Song didn't pay attention to those heated gazes. After chatting affectionately with the beautician in his arms for a few moments, he slowly released her.
He turned to the crowd.
He gave a slight nod, his attitude composed and casual, his voice clear and gentle as he said, "Good evening, everyone. I'm Qianqian's boyfriend, Tang Song. Apologies for barging in unannounced and disturbing your enjoyment."
His voice wasn't loud, but it instantly broke the somewhat frozen atmosphere.
"No, not at all!"
"Mr. Tang, you're too polite."
"Never thought we'd get to meet the man himself today. This is truly an honor for us."
Several quick-witted ladies immediately responded with smiles.
Their attitude was noticeably more enthusiastic and carried a hint of carefulness compared to when they were just facing Zhao Yaqian.
After all, someone capable of nurturing a "kept bird" like Zhao Yaqian was definitely no ordinary person.
After some simple pleasantries.
The atmosphere in the exhibition hall gradually became lively.
Tang Song didn't immediately take Zhao Yaqian away to enjoy their private time.
Instead, he accompanied her, strolling through this small exhibition area.
He patiently listened as Zhao Yaqian, like showing off treasures, introduced the inspiration and little thoughts behind each fragrance to him, his gaze focused and gentle.
He would cooperatively pick up bottles to smell and then give an evaluation.
He would also stop at appropriate times to chat for a few sentences with ladies who came over to strike up a conversation.
Topics mostly revolved around the art of fragrance, recent fashion trends, or some interesting news in Yancheng, the atmosphere light and pleasant.
His words weren't deliberately showy, but he always managed to catch the topic appropriately.
The occasional display of broad knowledge and keen insight made people feel as if bathed in a spring breeze.
That kind of subtle yet stable, composed charm, coupled with his looks, made the eyes of several well-traveled ladies present shine with increasingly bright light.
If Zhao Yaqian weren't intimately holding onto his arm, someone probably would have already wanted to exchange contact information further.
Zhao Yaqian obediently followed beside Tang Song, tightly holding his arm, her heart filled with an unprecedented, overflowing sense of satisfaction.
This satisfaction far exceeded the surprise of his sudden appearance.
It was even more because...
This was the first time he had so unabashedly, openly stepped into her social sphere.
Ever since she started trying to change her social circle, transforming from a small beautician into a so-called socialite...
Deep down, she had always felt timid.
Even now, being surrounded and admired, for her, only 19 years old, that feeling of lacking solid footing, of being ungrounded, still lingered like a shadow.
And now.
Tang Song appeared here.
He didn't care about others' gazes, directly revealing their relationship.
Giving her an indescribable sense of security and belonging.
Dinner was at the club's top-floor scenic restaurant, undisturbed by outsiders.
The two ordered a few light and exquisite Huaiyang dishes and enjoyed them slowly.
After the meal, Zhao Yaqian pulled Tang Song to the game area downstairs.
She played with particular intensity, pressing the controller buttons with loud "click-clack" sounds.
When she lost, she would mutter softly; when she won, she would happily shake his arm.
Clear laughter and occasional exclamations filled the room, completely immersed in the sweet date.
Until the night grew deeper. She glanced at the time and suddenly seemed to remember something, pulling Tang Song again to the third-floor VIP hydrotherapy room.
She said he had just returned from abroad and must be tired, and needed to relax properly.
Zhao Yaqian didn't call a technician in. Instead, she locked the door from inside, dimmed the lights, and lit scented candles.
She deftly tied up her long hair, washed her hands clean, and transformed back into that professional and meticulous beautician from before.
She began to focus on giving Tang Song skincare and massage, her movements gentle and skilled.
A sweet, earnest, and satisfied smile was on her face as she chatted happily with him, saying she had learned new dance steps recently, about friends she met, and interesting things that happened.
She was exceptionally focused, a fine layer of sweat gradually appearing on her smooth forehead.
Watching this scene, Tang Song's gaze grew increasingly tender.
He actually didn't feel tired.
The special effect attached to the [Male-God Halo (LV5)] made him almost ignore jet lag, able to recover abundant energy at any time.
But at this moment, feeling the delicate, earnest touch of those hands on his back.
Hearing her slightly hurried breathing, so close at hand.
An unprecedented sense of relaxation and tranquility slowly spread from the depths of his heart to his entire body.
Making him somewhat intoxicated.
Unconsciously, he actually fell asleep.
When he opened his eyes again, the first thing he saw was the beautician's pretty face.
She had pulled up a small stool and was sitting beside him, blinking her watery eyes, looking at him with a sweet, silly smile on her face.
A warm yellow glow enveloped her. A few stray strands of hair had escaped from her tied-up bun, sticking to her smooth temples.
The scented candles burned quietly, the air filled with a scent mixed with essential oils and the faint sweet fragrance from her body.
It made him think back, somewhat dazedly, to before, in that small treatment room at Yizi Beauty Salon, when he brought handmade fried skewers and spent time alone with her.
"Qianqian."
"Hmm? I'm here."
"Did I sleep long?"
"Not at all." She shook her head, leaning forward slightly, her eyes bright. "Just a little while. You slept so soundly."
"Hmm. Been sitting here all this time?"
"Sitting here is nice." She then asked, her tone full of concern, "How do you feel? Still tired?"
"Very comfortable, like getting a full charge."
"That's good."
The two fell quiet, looking at each other in the warm, soft glow.
After quite a while.
"What time is it?" Tang Song asked.
"9:12."
"Still early. Is there anywhere you particularly want to go tonight, or anything you want to do?"
The beautician thought for a moment, a blush quietly rising on her face, and whispered, "Yes."
"Want what?"
"Pfft—" Seeing Tang Song's expression of feigned ignorance, she couldn't help but laugh.
Then she leaned close to Tang Song's ear, her warm breath whispering, "That outfit and garter you mentioned before, I received them. They're especially beautiful, already hung on the mannequin in the walk-in closet at home. I even specially bought matching underwear... and, today happens to be my ovulation period... it's particularly..."
"Shall we go home then?"
"Mhm." The beautician shyly bit her lip.
...
Wednesday, January 3, 2024.
Shencheng Bay No. 1, Building T5.
8:00 AM.
Sunlight filtered through the bedroom sheer curtains, spreading a layer of warm gold on the floor.
Liu Qingning woke up naturally but wasn't in a hurry to get up.
She lazily stretched out a long, satisfying stretch under the covers, rolled the duvet around herself a bit, and then slowly shuffled out of bed to wash up.
Standing at the sink, she picked up her electric toothbrush, squeezed on a small dab of mint toothpaste, and began brushing her teeth leisurely, her mouth full of foam.
Normally at this time, she'd already be sitting in her office at Qingmi Technology.
But today was different.
Because Tang Yi Precision's chairwoman, Ouyang Xianyue, had requested a meeting with her.
This kind of heavyweight "business meeting" gave her a legitimate reason for an external work trip.
Rounded up, it was almost equivalent to a paid day off.
As she brushed her teeth, she looked at herself in the mirror.
Several unruly short hairs stuck up stubbornly on top of her head.
Those were hairs she'd lost from all the overtime and late nights at Century Zhixue, now gradually growing back.
The new hair was fine and soft, standing up defiantly after a night's sleep.
Looking at her slightly disheveled, sleep-marked reflection in the mirror, she wasn't annoyed. Instead, she found it a bit cute, grinning at her foamy-mouthed reflection in a silly way.
Ever since experiencing that turmoil, her mindset had undergone a peculiar "bounce-back" effect.
Now, she still went to work, but she had learned to slack off a bit.
Listening to music, browsing tech forums, chatting in group chats, going home after work to binge-watch dramas, learning to cook from Auntie Mei.
Work had become part of her life again, not her entire life.
This sense of relaxation made her appear radiant all over, and even her appetite had improved considerably.
"Gargle—" She spat out the mouthwash, scooped up cold water to wash her face, and felt much more awake.
Dragging her slippers back to the bedroom, she called out casually, "Hello, Qingmi."
"Good morning, Qingning." A gentle, pleasant synthetic female voice immediately sounded in the room. The small, rounded smart terminal on the bedside table lit up with a breathing light.
"Today's weather."
"Today is January 3rd. Shen City weather is clear, temperature 18 to 24 degrees Celsius, light breeze. Suggested attire: Knitwear paired with casual pants, comfortable and suitable for light outdoor activities. Your schedule reminder: 10 AM, appointment at the 'Qingmingxuan' teahouse at Happy Coast..."
This was the latest hardware carrier for the Qingmi AI, one of the fruits of her labor during this period.
Liu Qingning listened while standing barefoot on the body fat scale next to her.
The numbers on the screen jumped a few times before finally settling.
[52.1 kg]
Her eyelids twitched violently.
Her gaze instinctively dropped down and was, unsurprisingly, blocked by the ample fullness of her chest, completely unable to see her own waist.
"Fifty-two point one..."
She murmured softly, reaching out to pinch the side of her waist.
The sensation under her fingertips was soft and squishy. There wasn't any obvious flab, but it definitely couldn't be called firm.
Before, in order to recover to her best state, she had desperately worked out and eaten those bland, tasteless diet meals, finally managing to keep her weight under 50 kilograms.
And now, after just over a week of slacking off?
Her weight had rebounded like a rocket!
It was all Auntie Mei's fault.
Recently, on weekends spent lazing at home, Auntie Mei had been concocting soups and making Cantonese dim sum in all sorts of ways, from morning tea to late-night snacks.
Who could resist that?
Of course, it was also because she herself wanted to learn and couldn't help eating a few extra bites each time.
Liu Qingning sighed, the string in her mind tightening briefly.
But then her shoulders suddenly slumped, and she let out a long exhale.
Forget it, so what if I'm a bit heavier? Being healthy is what matters.
Anyway... he doesn't lack girlfriends with slender figures.
Thinking this, she stepped off the scale.
Walking out of the bedroom, Auntie Mei had already reheated and set out the congee and snacks on the table.
She ate breakfast quickly and contentedly, then disappeared into the walk-in closet.
Her fingers slid over the rows of clothes hung by color scheme. After a slight pause, she picked out a high-quality light gray cashmere knit sweater and paired it with a brown midi skirt.
It had the respectability of a career woman while retaining the softness and approachability brought by the knit fabric, which should suit today's tea meeting atmosphere.
After changing, there was still plenty of time.
She went to the large balcony outside the bedroom with its expansive view, relaxing her whole body into a comfortable recliner.
Picking up her phone, there were already quite a few unread messages.
There were project updates in work groups and casual chats in friend groups.
Her finger slid across the screen, paused, and tapped open the pinned chat.
Tang Song had sent a photo of the busy office area at Songmei Apparel.
Below it was a message: "Starting work now. Let me get the e-commerce company matters sorted first, then I'll head to Shen City. Miss me, baby? (。·0·)3"
Liu Qingning raised an eyebrow, her face expressionless, but her fingertips typed a quick reply: "To be honest, not really. I even find it quite peaceful being alone."
After sending it, she laughed first.
She adjusted her posture, raised her phone, and found the perfect angle to take a photo of the sun-drenched Shencheng Bay outside the window and the distant, rolling city skyline.
In the photo, the sky was clear as if washed, with a few wisps of clouds drifting lazily. This coastal city was slowly awakening in the morning light.
Peaceful, vast, full of life.
"Whoosh—" The photo was sent.
"Boom boom boom—"
[Tang Song: Liu Qingning crying jpg (sticker)]
[Tang Song: "Really don't miss me? So sad."]
Looking at the sticker made from her own photo on the screen, Liu Qingning wrinkled her nose, gave a light hum, and sent back a [A dog being kicked flying.gif].
The two of them traded stickers back and forth like this for a few rounds, the curve at the corner of Liu Qingning's mouth never fading.
Until a pleasant ringtone interrupted this leisurely moment.
[Tang Yi Precision - Secretary Chen]
The smile on Liu Qingning's face faded somewhat, returning to calmness.
Taking a deep breath, she answered the call. "Hello? Secretary Chen, good morning."
"General Manager Liu, good morning. I hope I'm not disturbing you?" Secretary Chen's gentle voice came through the receiver. "Ms. Ouyang asked me to pick you up. My car is already at the entrance of your residential complex, a black Maybach, license plate ending in 668. Is the timing convenient for you?"
"Alright, I'll come down right away." Liu Qingning replied succinctly.
Hanging up, she let out a soft exhale, walked to the full-length mirror, quickly adjusted the collar of her knit sweater and her hair, tucking a few stray strands behind her ears.
Then, she picked up her small crossbody bag, put her phone and essentials inside, changed into high heels, and pushed the door open to leave.
...
Downstairs, in the temporary parking area at the complex entrance.
A mirror-clean black Maybach S-Class sat quietly, its body lines smooth and dignified.
Seeing Liu Qingning walk out, the car door opened and Chen Jing quickly stepped out to greet her.
She wore a proper business suit, her face wearing a polite but not overly enthusiastic smile, her posture respectful and professional. "General Manager Liu, hello. I am Ms. Ouyang's secretary, Chen Jing. Very pleased to meet you."
"Secretary Chen, thank you for making the trip." Liu Qingning also nodded with a smile. The two shook hands briefly.
This was their first formal meeting, but there was a kind of mutual understanding, an unspoken awareness.
"You're too kind, this is my job." Chen Jing stepped aside, gesturing for Liu Qingning to get in the car, and considerately used her hand to shield the top of the door frame.
The car drove out smoothly, merging into Shen City's morning traffic.
The cabin was very quiet.
Chen Jing sat in the passenger seat, slightly turned, explaining the upcoming route and estimated time in a steady tone.
Liu Qingning listened quietly, her gaze fixed on the cityscape flashing past the window.
The sound of her own heartbeat echoed in her ears, growing clearer and clearer.
No matter what, she was about to meet Ouyang Xianyue.
As someone working in the AI field, how could she not know this name?
This was a true titan of commerce, a respected pioneer and leader in the industry.
She possessed top-tier capital support and deep family political connections, rarely appearing in the media yet enjoying extremely high public respect.
Moreover, she already knew that this person had a deep connection with Tang Song.
Whether it was the "Moonlight Trust" that had entangled her or the name "Tang Yi Precision" itself, which likely stemmed from associations with "Tang Song,"
All indicated the intricate ties between the two.
This awareness made her current mood extremely complex, intertwined with the natural reverence for an industry giant and a faint tension and solemnity toward the scrutinizing gaze of an "elder."
About twenty minutes later, the car entered a high-end commercial district by the water.
It finally stopped in front of an independent building with an antique, elegant exterior and a distinctly new Chinese style.
Blue bricks and dark tiles, low-key and restrained.
On the sandalwood door hung an inconspicuous plaque—Qingmingxuan.
A server was already waiting at the entrance. As soon as the car stopped, he stepped forward respectfully to open the door.
Liu Qingning took a deep breath and stepped out of the car. Chen Jing quickly led her inside.
Passing through a corridor dotted with dry landscape gardens and flowing water features, the noise from outside was completely cut off.
All that remained in her ears was the gurgle of water and the faint, lingering notes of a guqin.
The air was filled with a refined tea fragrance, mixed with the serene scent unique to aged wood, making one's originally restless heart involuntarily calm down.
Chen Jing led her to a closed carved wooden door, stopped, turned slightly, and said softly,
"General Manager Liu, Ms. Ouyang is inside. Please go in."
Liu Qingning nodded in thanks to Chen Jing, adjusted her breathing, raised her hand, and gently pushed open the heavy wooden door.
"Creak—"
The light inside was softer and warmer than in the corridor.
Behind the wide, solid wood tea table, a graceful, dignified figure came into view.
Ouyang Xianyue wore a high-quality dark-colored Chinese-style stand-collar shirt, her long hair loosely tied up.
She was holding a purple clay teapot with practiced elegance, her wrist turning gently as she rinsed the tea leaves.
Her movements flowed smoothly, revealing a noble upbringing and composure ingrained in her bones.
The fragrant steam of tea rose, blurring her features but adding to the picturesque charm.
Through the thin veil of steam, her gentle gaze met Liu Qingning's eyes in the air.
"Ms. Ouyang, hello. It's an honor to meet you." Liu Qingning immediately stopped, gave a slight bow in greeting, her voice carrying an unconscious formality and restraint.
"Qingning is here? Come in quickly and sit."
Ouyang Xianyue put down the purple clay teapot in her hand. She didn't even wait for Liu Qingning to approach before beckoning to her with extreme naturalness.
Her tone was familiar and intimate, like calling a frequent, almost family-like junior, instantly dissolving the initial unfamiliarity.
Liu Qingning was slightly taken aback, quickly walked forward, and sat down somewhat awkwardly on the wooden chair opposite.
"No need to be so formal in private."
Ouyang Xianyue smiled gracefully, her sleeves slightly rolled up, revealing a section of fair wrist.
She personally picked up the teapot and elegantly poured a cup of tea for Liu Qingning.
The tea liquor was golden and translucent, its aroma wafting up.
"Try it. This is this year's newly arrived Junshan Silver Needle. The flavor is very fresh."
"Thank you." Liu Qingning received the small, exquisite doucai teacup with both hands and carefully took a sip.
In her view, this meeting was no different from an inspection and a test. And currently, she didn't have much confidence in herself.
"How have you been recently? Is work going smoothly?"
"It's been good. Over at Qingning Technology, the Qingmi AI project is progressing fairly smoothly..."
"Mhm, I've heard. Some of your new approaches to data integration are quite insightful."
...
A few casual words about work made the atmosphere flow naturally.
The tension and reverence originally weighing on Liu Qingning's chest quietly dissipated more than half under the other's guidance.
She had thought she would face a stern elder, but hadn't expected the other to be so amiable and approachable, slightly different from the image of the "rule-abiding" proper society lady rumored outside, more down-to-earth.
As they chatted, the topic shifted to Ouyang Xianyue's inspection in Quancheng.
Liu Qingning took a sip of tea, hesitated for a moment, then still spoke softly, "Ms. Ouyang, my father received the official appointment from Quancheng State Investment yesterday. I know... you must have put in a lot of effort behind the scenes. Really, thank you so much."
Hearing this, Ouyang Xianyue didn't deny it, just smiled faintly.
"It was just a small effort. Your father has worked in grassroots financial positions his whole life. He's experienced, reliable, and upright. He deserved a better platform. The work at the Audit and Supervision Department of Quancheng State Investment is relatively light, which suits his meticulous and careful nature perfectly. I just gave things a little push and made a suitable recommendation."
Hearing these words, Liu Qingning's eyelashes fluttered. For a moment, she didn't know how to respond, only murmuring her thanks again in a low voice.
No matter what, for anyone, family is the foundation of life, the deepest concern in one's heart.
Ouyang Xianyue's action, while seemingly understated, had genuinely helped her shed the constant worry she had for her family, resolving her biggest concern.
Moreover, it was foreseeable that with the care and endorsement of a VIP like Ouyang Xianyue, her father's future path would be much smoother and more stable.
Ouyang Xianyue refilled her cup with hot tea, her tone becoming even more intimate and natural. "Alright, after talking for so long, we can be considered officially acquainted. I'm very happy to be able to sit down and talk with you like this today, Qingning."
"Me too, Ms. Ouyang."
"Let's change the form of address, no need to be so formal." Ouyang Xianyue smiled, her eyes carrying encouragement and expectation. "In private from now on, you can call me something closer."
Liu Qingning readily complied. Looking at this dignified, caring elder before her, her heart was full of gratitude and respect.
"Alright, then... Auntie Ouyang."
"..."
The perfectly gentle smile on Ouyang Xianyue's face instantly froze.
A... Auntie?!
I treat you like a sister, and you call me Auntie?!
Is this appropriate?!