"I've asked Assistant Yang. Since you don't anything plan for today and it's about time to get off work, I came here to fetch you." Jiang Lulian said with a smile.
Ming Yutong returned a polite smile. Jiang Lulian was introduced to her by her parents, as the Jiang and Ming families were considering a marriage alliance.
Since meeting him at a party, Jiang Lulian had been pursuing her, though not aggressively. His pursuit was like boiling a frog in warm water—subtle but consistent.
However, Ming Yutong couldn't muster any enthusiasm. It wasn't that Jiang Lulian was unappealing.
On the contrary, he was charming and well-mannered, a very good choice. But Ming Yutong had no interest in starting a new relationship, let alone marrying. Thus, she always gently declined his advances.
Jiang Lulian, however, seemed oblivious to her refusals and continued to invite her out frequently. Ming Yutong didn't want to create any unpleasantness, especially since they often collaborated professionally.
Given the current situation, with Jiang Lulian showing up at her office, Ming Yutong had no choice but to comply.
"It's too much trouble for you," Ming Yutong said.
"No trouble at all, I was just passing by," Jiang Lulian replied with a smile.
Ming Yutong gathered her things and left the office with Jiang Lulian.
It was the end of the workday, and their walk from the general manager's office down to the busy lobby drew a lot of attention.
Employees, tired after a long day, couldn't help but indulge in some gossip, speculating about the relationship between Ming Yutong and Jiang Lulian.
Everyone was familiar with Jiang Lulian.
Lufeng Group had invested in numerous TV shows and managed several current popular stars in the entertainment industry. Although their status wasn't as high as those under Hanbang, they still had a significant fan base.
Lufeng's artists, even if not particularly talented, were highly popular with numerous fans. Their shows, despite sometimes being of low quality, still garnered high ratings due to fan support.
Consequently, Jiang Lulian frequently appeared at press conferences and wrap parties. His good looks, combined with his sophisticated and elegant demeanor, made him stand out.
Most people enjoyed following entertainment news, so even if they didn't recognize him at first glance, they did after a second or third look.
"Does our company collaborate with Lufeng?" one colleague asked another.
"No, I don't think we do."
"Then why are President Ming and Jiang Lulian together? Could it be..."
"Hey, it could be a powerful union, a perfect match."
"They do look quite compatible!"
Ming Yutong couldn't help but overhear the comments, but she kept a stiff expression, pretending not to hear anything.
The two left the company, and at this time, the entrance was crowded with parked cars. Jiang Lulian's car was conveniently parked nearby, just a few steps away.
"I heard your car got hit?" Jiang Lulian asked, trying to make conversation.
Ming Yutong didn't like how much he seemed to know about her, as if he was deliberately investigating her. It made her uncomfortable.
"Don't get the wrong idea," Jiang Lulian quickly explained. "Last night, my mom was chatting with your aunt, who mentioned it. She said the rear of your car was badly damaged. It's frustrating how some people drive without any consideration."
Ming Yutong responded, "Yes, it's at the repair shop now."
"How are you getting to work then?" Jiang Lulian offered with a smile. "Why don't I drive you every day?"
Ming Yutong replied awkwardly, "I can use another car."
Jiang Lulian knew that, of course. They both had multiple cars. This was just an excuse to spend more time with her, but Ming Yutong wasn't giving him any chances.
As they reached Jiang Lulian's car, he courteously opened the passenger door for her, helping her in. Ming Yutong, facing away from the street, didn't notice Little Jingshi peeking from a car window.
***
Little Jingshi was picked up from school by Alpha Guard. Instead of heading straight home, he asked Alpha Guard to take a detour to the Ming Group.
Generally, unless forbidden by Fu Yinxiu, Alpha Guard would comply with Little Jingshi's requests.
The boy rarely asked for anything and was very sensible, so Alpha Guard saw no harm in a minor detour.
Upon arrival, they saw Ming Yutong with an unfamiliar man. The man was good-looking, but not as handsome as Little Jingshi's father.
Despite their argument the night before, Little Jingshi was still on Fu Yinxiu's side and believed this was a fact.
Little Jingshi puffed his cheeks in frustration.
How could Tong Tong go on a date with someone else?
Seeing them about to get into the car, Little Jingshi panicked. "Oh no! She's getting into a stranger's car!"
Pointing ahead, he instructed, "Quick, follow that car!" He even recited the car's license plate number to ensure Alpha Guard wouldn't lose them.
Alpha Guard was speechless but complied.
They followed Jiang Lulian's car through the heavy traffic of B City.
Despite the congestion, Alpha Guard kept a close tail on Jiang Lulian's car, not losing them for a moment.