Haifeng once heard a saying:
"Women are like clouds—always changing shape."
But today, Ye Lingzhi didn't chase the topic any further, which surprised—and relieved—him.
"Alright, alright," she smirked. "I'll pretend I believe you."
She folded her arms.
"It's been what, twelve years?"
"You've changed. Grown up well, Crybaby."
"Even the taxi driver on the way here wouldn't stop talking about your company."
"I had no idea the Hongmeng X1 was yours."
She gave him a mock sigh.
"Tsk, tsk. I can't believe the little crybaby's building cars now.
You couldn't even ride a bike as a kid."
Haifeng's expression darkened.
Low blow.
That memory still haunted him.
He hadn't learned to ride because Ye Lingzhi would sneak up and kick the back wheel back then.
Back in the days of old steel-frame bikes, the result was always predictable: crash and pain.
He didn't learn—he developed a phobia.
And she never let him live it down.
Lingzhi sighed again.
"Originally, I came back to help you.
But now that I see your company is thriving, I'm doubting whether you need me at all."
Haifeng nearly facepalmed.
Just say you came to mess with me—don't make it sound noble.
He forced a polite smile.
"How could that be? You graduated from a top university.
Wherever you go, you'll be a pillar of strength.
It would be a massive help if you joined."
"Heh. Smart man. Knows how to flatter."
"Fine then, I'm not leaving.
Your company barely meets my job-hunting standards… so I'll reluctantly help you out."
Haifeng: …
Reluctantly?! We've got world-leading tech here!
Still, he kept the fake smile on his face.
"China Star will be more assertive with such a beautiful and brilliant woman joining us.
What was your major?"
"Automotive design," she replied casually. "And you're building cars now.
Perfect fit. Assign me to the auto design department."
Haifeng thought for a moment.
The design director role at Audi Motors was currently vacant. He had planned to move Tang San back to the lab anyway.
Putting Lingzhi in charge would solve two problems at once—and it would be an easy landing for a cousin.
"She's intelligent, educated, and trustworthy.
Might as well make use of her."
But before he could speak—
"No," Lingzhi said, frowning. "Don't make me a director right away."
"If I start with a title like that, people will assume I got in through nepotism."
"They won't respect me. Work won't get done."
"I want to earn it. Let me start as an entry-level employee."
Haifeng stared at her.
Huh? Weren't you the same person who used to cheat during hopscotch and punch people?
Now, do you want to climb the ladder properly?
He gave her a look.
"Is that necessary? I still make the rules here, you know."
"Doesn't matter," she said, flexing a tiny but well-aimed fist.
"My decision. Who dares say anything?"
He sighed.
"Fine. I'll have Tang San mentor you for now.
But you'd better rise fast—he has other assignments."
Lingzhi grinned like she'd just conquered something.
"Don't worry. Give me a little time to adjust, and I'll make that title mine."
"I start tomorrow."
"Now, arrange housing for me. And dinner. A fancy one."
"You're the big boss now—I'd feel cheated if I didn't get something out of this reunion."
Haifeng: …
This woman's logic hasn't changed one bit.