Chapter 2 Chapter 2 No Reliance, Except Myself

On Monday, I stepped into the company half an hour earlier than usual.Gu Fenghua is already in his office. "Zhu Ran!" He greeted me as soon as he saw me.I nodded to him that I was all set. He also shook my hand vigorously: "Everything is under control. You don't have to speak, just help me check on key issues." There were two big bags under the eyes, but Gu Fenghua's spirit was extremely excited, and his voice was an octave higher than usual.He just has this characteristic, and every critical moment, people seem to have injected an overdose of stimulants.Just like the ferocious beasts before Jue Pass, even though they were trembling with danger, they still moved forward.To be honest, Gu Fenghua is quite attractive at this time.

— not like him.I think, unlike Jing Xueping, you never see him have the courage to trample on everything. what happened?Why did you think of Jing Xueping again? There was cold sweat all over his back.I wanted to go to the bathroom to wash my face, but it was too late. Representatives of investment companies are here.The upper management of the company lined up to welcome them into the conference room.Take your seat, skip the pleasantries and get straight to the point.Efficiency is everywhere. Gu Fenghua began to introduce the company's operating conditions, the content of which I have already memorized fluently.It is nothing more than emphasizing that the company's policy is correct, its operation is efficient, its finances are sound, and its profits are significant.In short, these are the words that investors love to hear.If you want someone to pay you, you naturally have to choose the most pleasant words to say.People have ulterior motives, and the more good the word is, the more suspicious it is, so there will be rounds of pre-financing investigations, and you must be ripped apart, otherwise you will not be able to believe it.

These investigations are also easy to deal with if everyone plays by the rules.It's a pity that China's business, when the cover is lifted, there are always many shady activities underneath, forcing everyone to show their talents.I flipped through the business cards of everyone on the opposite table. Everyone can be regarded as an elite, but they all looked haggard and prematurely decayed.Holding a lot of real money, but living an extremely tormented life.I want to make money, but I am afraid of losing money, and I am even more worried about being cheated. I remembered what was said in my textbook when I was a child that money is the root of all evil.Perhaps biased.However, it is absolutely true that Qian Sheng has endless troubles.For example, Gu Fenghua, who has made the company to the scale it is today, is still very short of money, walking on eggshells every day.He lives as if to make money, to make money.As long as you are still working hard to make money, it means you haven't made enough.

There will probably never be a day when I earn enough. Now Gu Fenghua's top priority is to secure huge investment, expand the business scale, and continue to make money. Thinking about it is also tiring. However, I have already boarded the thief's ship, and I can only share the ups and downs with him. After Gu Fenghua's introduction, the representative of the investment company began to ask questions.This is the key link, and my spirit is highly tense.My position is the chief financial officer, and I have an account of Gu Fenghua's company in my heart.Once asked about the financial figures, I must answer fully without any flaws.

Fortunately, the problems have passed one by one.It was almost noon, and there was no accident. I gradually relaxed. The other party's demeanor was also much more natural, and they deserted one after another.Some people fiddled with their mobile phones, and some people looked away. "Huilong." Sitting across from me, the youngest-looking representative spoke, "I want to ask about your acquisition of Huilong Company." A sense of austerity quickly rose from the soles of his feet. I looked over to Gu Fenghua, and saw that his expression remained unchanged, with a smile on his mouth: "The materials have been described in detail, is there anything else that hasn't been clearly written?"

He is as confident as Julius Caesar, a powerful character indeed. The young man was also unambiguous, and was not intimidated by Gu Fenghua's aura.He began to speak calmly, apparently well prepared: "Guchen Group acquired Huilong Company three years ago, and then packaged and put into production a game product 'Dream Keeper' of Huilong. From the current Judging from the financial data, the product 'Dream Keeper' has not yet produced actual profits. However, Gu Chen launched it as the core concept of this financing." I flipped through the business card in my hand - Song Qiaoxi.Title Project Manager.I remember he called himself Jonathan when he was introduced just now.There is also a line of fine print on the business card: mit (MIT) Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics.Must be an abc, I thought.Not only does his tone of voice resemble Lu Tianmin's, but his even-skinned face and firm body reveal health and confidence from the inside out.I have never seen such a suitable physical and mental condition among native youths.Only the cleanest environment, and the freest atmosphere, can cultivate such a physical and mental condition.

Now, they are all scrambling to plunge into this filth. Do you really think that muddy water is easy to fish in? The smile on Gu Fenghua's face deepened: "'Dream Keeper' has been accumulating users in the past few years, and now it has a massive user base. I bet that there are loyal fans of the 'Dream Keeper' game around you .So, its profit conversion will be a matter of course, I am very confident about it. The performance forecast in our report is supported by a reliable model." He seemed to have just remembered Song Qiaoxi, "What is your question?"

Dr. Jonathan was not discouraged: "Mr. Gu, as far as I know, the developer of 'Dream Keeper' is Ji Chunmao, who is also the founder of Huilong Company. But when Gu Chen acquired Huilong three years ago, Ji Chunmao disappeared Now, its whereabouts are still unknown. The game "Dream Keeper" has lost its original creator, and there has been no major upgrade and revision in the past three years. Although this game has a strong market foundation, in order to achieve real profitability, the product needs to be greatly improved. I think I know, what is Mr. Gu's plan for this?"

I crumpled Song's business card into a paper ball in the palm of my hand.Nerves were tense to the extreme, but emotionally they entered an ethereal state.Like a pure spectator, I watched Gu Fenghua's tightrope walk indifferently.As if he was not on the other end of the wire rope, crumbling. Gu Fenghua stared at Song Qiaoxi.The expressions on the face are distinct, from surprise to bewilderment to relief to joking... Superb acting skills. He said: "I hope that 'Dream Keeper' can become 'Apple', but it's a pity that there is no Jobs!" I chuckled. There was laughter on the conference table, and the atmosphere suddenly eased.Song Qiaoxi also smiled.I felt his eyes rest on my face with subtle curiosity.Young men of good birth seldom harbor real hostility.They don't need to.

Should be able to handle it, I think. Gu Fenghua waited for the laughter to subside before he said politely: "I will say three points. First, we believe that 'Dream Keeper' is a good product with a promising future. This money refers to real money. In the past The customer resources we have accumulated through the free strategy will surely become a solid foundation for future profitability; second, commercial success is not enough to rely on the advantages of the product itself. We all know that no matter how excellent a product is, it needs to be commensurate with it. Only by operating with a professional platform and team can its commercial potential be fully tapped. Guchen Group is such a platform that can turn stones into gold. Third, Xiao Song, oh, Jonathan just talked about "Dream Keeper" for three years There is no upgrade, this statement is inaccurate. In fact, we have been making progressive optimization of "Dream Keeper" for three years. We are very cautious in this regard, hoping to continue the functions widely recognized by users. At the same time , we have repeatedly demonstrated the overall revision plan of the product, and invested a lot of resources in research and development. Today, I would like to take this opportunity to announce to you that the research and development of the new version of "Dream Keeper" is nearing completion. I have planned that in the financing contract signed At the same time, a new version of 'Dream Keeper' will be officially launched. At that time, let's have a double happiness!"

The lingering sound lingered, and the whole audience showed excitement.Gu Fenghua is really one of the best orators. Song Qiaoxi spread her hands at Gu Fenghua, as if she was completely conquered by him.In fact, this little Dr. Jonathan has a keen sense of smell and has already caught our weakness.It's a pity that he had limited homework and lack of experience, so he was easily dealt with by the cunning and cunning Gu Fenghua. Can I catch my breath? Gu Fenghua is making a concluding statement.I sneak a glance at my phone.According to the plan, after Bai Lu sent Xiaoxuan to school this morning, she went to Xiaoxuan's class teacher to inquire about the situation.By this time there should be a message coming back.Even if there is no result, she should return to the company.But until now, there is no news.I originally thought that Bai Lu was a reliable young man, but I didn't expect her to be such an unreliable character. I really want to rush to the school immediately to see what happened. While thinking about it, he suddenly heard Gu Fenghua mention "Dream Keeper". "Jonathan's question about the Huilong acquisition is very good. It must be a question from the market, and it just gives me a chance to explain. As I said just now, the 'Dream Keeper' is not 'Apple', and it must be Steve Jobs. In fact , There are two founders of Huilong. One of them, Ji Chunmao, unfortunately disappeared before the acquisition. But the other founder, Liang Hongzhi, joined Guchen after the acquisition. Mr. Liang himself has been leading the revision of "Dream Keeper" So I dare say that the core of the 'Dream Keeper' is always in the hands of Gu Chen." There was a bang in the head. Gu Fenghua, oh Gu Fenghua, why do you never learn to accept when you are good?Who is Liang Hongzhi?It is the god of plague to avoid!At this moment, you still take the initiative to push him forward, aren't you afraid of getting burned? Ji Chunmao and Liang Hongzhi.Well, there is Jingkoping!It would be better to dig a deep pit straight to the center of the earth and bury these names in it.Then fill it with tons of sand.Never turn over. If it wasn't for the meeting room full of people, I really wanted to rush up and give Gu Fenghua a solid slap on that smug face.Therefore, I have never been tempted by Gu Fenghua.I was born to hate flamboyant men, and it is Gu Fenghua's fatal injury to be overjoyed. But today I am working for him, and I am tying my wealth and life to him. Not that no one advised me. Zhu Ran, have you finally regretted it? I gritted my teeth and said to the person in my mind - no!I will never know the word regret! I raised my head and smiled at everyone: "It's past twelve o'clock, we don't want to starve everyone. Please eat." Everyone was relieved, chatting and laughing and filed out towards the door.Gu Fenghua took the lead, and I followed like an old hen. The phone vibrated in his pocket: "Mr. Zhu, please come to school quickly, I have something important to do." It was from Bai Lu. For some reason, I just feel creepy. I rushed to Gu Fenghua's side and said in a low voice, "Old Gu, I have to go to Xiaoxuan's school. Sorry, I can't accompany guests at noon." Gu Fenghua's eyes widened: "Zhu Ran, why are you..." I didn't give him a chance to finish, so I turned and ran to the elevator. I ran through several red lights on the way.When he saw the school gate, he calmed down a little.The gates are wide open, and elementary school children are playing in the playground.It turned out to be lunch break. Where is Xiaoxuan?Where's Bai Lu? Oh, I should call Bai Lu. She called first. "Mr. Zhu, where have you been?" The voice sounded a bit strange. "I'm at the school gate." "Come to the back street of the school. There is a KFC restaurant here. I will wait for you outside the door." Also strange.I didn't scold Bai Lu severely, but obediently parked the car on the side of the road, and walked to the back of the school according to her instructions.I walked in such a hurry that my heart hit my chest one by one.Still looking around like a thief. As soon as I saw the signboard of KFC, Bai Lu ran towards me and stopped me. "What about Xiaoxuan?" I asked. She showed a puzzled expression: "Xiaoxuan is eating KFC and is with...an old lady." I took a deep breath, and the thing I was most afraid of finally happened.I grabbed Bai Lu's thin shoulders: "Where is it?" We hid under a big tree and looked into the store through the glass window. On the crimson train seat, Xiaoxuan held the fried chicken wings in both hands and munched.Mouth full of oil, face full of smiles.Usually I strictly forbid him to touch this kind of junk food, so today his joy is doubled.Sitting opposite Xiaoxuan was an old woman, all I could see was her silver hair. A common picture of grandparents having fun together.I stared at them intently.watch. Bai Lu whispered in my ear: "Xiaoxuan's homeroom teacher has classes all morning, so I made an appointment to ask him to find out about the situation during lunch break. I waited outside the school until lunch break, and saw Xiaoxuan coming out with this old lady and entering this place." KFC. I didn't know what to do so I had to text you..." I signaled Bai Lu to shut up, and walked out of the shadows by myself.The noon sun at the end of September shone overhead, and it was still hot. I walked into KFC and came all the way to Xiaoxuan's table.When he saw me, he was frightened, with half of the chicken wing still in his mouth.I took it off and threw it into a plate, and pulled his arm: "Let's go." "stop!" The old woman blocked the way, her white hair trembling.I can actually look at her carefully——Ni Shuangxia, Jing Xueping's mother.I haven't seen her for more than three years, and she is getting old.I remember that she was no more than seventy years old, but today she looks like a hundred years old. Every inch is wreckage. "Zhu Ran, I haven't seen my grandson for three years." Her throat was hoarse, and two lines of old tears rolled down her cheeks. "Xiaoxuan is ten years old, so why don't I celebrate his birthday?" "No." I was unmoved. I pulled Xiaoxuan around her and continued to walk outside. "Zhu Ran!" Ni Shuangxia called out from behind us, "You bitch!" Ha, scold to your heart's content.I thought to myself, this is the standard model between Ni Shuangxia and me.She scolded it well, and I didn't have to have any more conscience. "Stop the dirt! Broom star! It's not enough for you to kill Xueping, you also have to kill Xiaoxuan! Kill me!" Ni Shuangxia yelled with all her strength.All eyes in the store were attracted. I feel resistance in my hands.Lowering his head, he saw Xiaoxuan's face was full of tears. "Mom," he cried, "Daddy, where is Daddy? I want Daddy..." I knelt down and stroked Xiaoxuan's hair: "Xiaoxuan, my father has passed away." The child's eyes widened. "It's my mother's fault. My mother is afraid that you will be sad, so she dare not tell you." I turned to Ni Shuangxia and said, "Are you satisfied now?" She rushed forward.A slap came.There was a momentary silence in my ears, and then I heard Xiaoxuan wailing. I pulled Xiaoxuan up again and walked out.Ni Shuangxia rushed forward like a lunatic, with a pair of withered hands like sharp claws, firmly stuck to my throat.I struggled desperately.But the old woman was possessed by a demon, and her strength was terrifying.I couldn't make a sound, and my eyes began to blur. Finally someone pulled Ni Shuangxia away.I fell straight backwards, and it was Bai Lu who supported me.She helped me sit down on the nearest chair, and looked at me blankly: "Zhu, Mr. Zhu, are you okay?" "Where is Xiaoxuan? Where is Xiaoxuan?!" "Here, here." Bai Lu pushed Xiaoxuan to me.Xiaoxuan has stopped crying, just buried his head in my arms, his small body shaking into a ball.My heart ached and my mind went blank. "It's Xiaoxuan... Mom?" It was the man who pulled Ni Shuangxia away to ask questions.Ni Shuangxia sat beside him with a pale face, her eyes closed tightly, as if she had lost consciousness.I remembered that this man was Jing Xiaoxuan's class teacher, named Zhao Ningnian.A gentle and capable young man. "Teacher Zhao?" I barely made a sound. Zhao Ningnian looked serious: "A classmate reported that Jing Xiaoxuan had an accident at KFC. I rushed over immediately." He looked at Ni Shuangxia, "This old lady is..." Ni Shuangxia still hangs her head, her body shakes slightly. I sat up straight and said sternly: "Mr. Zhao, today you seriously dereliction of duty. While the child is in school, the school has the responsibility to ensure the child's personal safety. But you let unrelated people take Xiaoxuan out of the school. You will bear the blame for the consequences!" Zhao Ningnian's expression became even uglier. He wanted to say something, but I didn't give him a chance. I said: "Mr. Zhao, I hope that similar incidents will not happen in the future. Please make sure that no one can take Jing Xiaoxuan away from school except me!" I finally walked out of the restaurant with Xiaoxuan. After finally getting to the car, my legs shook so badly that I could no longer walk.Unexpectedly, Bai Lu could drive a car.She volunteered to sit in the driver's seat.The car passed the road in front of KFC, and Ni Shuangxia rushed out of the store and stumbled after the car.Teacher Zhao Ningnian frantically went to help, but was also thrown off by Ni Shuangxia. "Zhu Ran, you will be punished! You will be punished!" The old woman's hoarse cry came from behind the car, but it was soon lost. No one spoke, and the car was silent. When I was close to home, I stretched out my hand to grab Xiaoxuan's shoulder, but he stubbornly avoided it. I closed my eyes and swallowed the salty tears.Everyone can blame me, hate me, only I have to bear everything.How did I end up in this situation? At least one thing for sure.Ni Shuangxia must have followed Jing Xueping's instructions and specially chose to appear on Xiaoxuan's tenth birthday.First birthday cards, and then take out for dinner, the protective circle I tried my best to set up for Xiaoxuan collapsed in one fell swoop. And, all this is just the beginning.I know this clearly from the bottom of my heart. As soon as he got home, Xiaoxuan ran into his room and locked the door behind him.I knocked on the door and called, but there was no movement inside.My legs were already limp as mud.I leaned against Xiaoxuan's door and slipped slowly. Bai Lu helped me sit down on the sofa, and took out a tissue to wipe the tears on my face. "It's okay." I said, "You go back and ask Mr. Gu for a leave of absence for me, just say that the child suddenly fell ill." "Yes." She nodded and left.From the beginning to the end, I didn't say a word or ask a word.This girl is a little too acquainted.But at the moment, I can only feel grateful to her.I'm in too much trouble, and I really need help.The only person I can trust now is an almost complete stranger like Bai Lu. When Vivien Leigh went crazy, she said that we can only rely on the kindness of strangers. I don't even have the right to be crazy. Sit on the sofa until night falls, and the lights outside the window light up one after another, forming stars.It was dark in the house.Tonight and Hexi have nothing to do with me.My perception is all maintained behind that white door. From ancient times to the present, mothers have always guarded their children without complaint or regret. But how many children can understand their parents' infatuation? "Mother." I looked up suddenly.Xiaoxuan came out.The light came in from the window behind him, and the child's figure was like a thin paper cut, torn by the wind. I stretched out my arms towards him: "Xiaoxuan." He rushed over and threw himself into my arms.Thin arms hugged me desperately, sobbing. "It's all my mother's bad, it's my mother's bad." I said incoherently. He cried and asked, "Mom, is Dad really dead?" I had nothing to say but tears. This is the second time I shed tears for Jing Xueping's death.If you don't cry, it's all right. I didn't expect that once I started crying, the tears would not stop. In the end, it was Xiaoxuan who came to persuade me.He raised his hand to wipe my tears: "Mom, don't cry. You still have me." This sentence really made me have mixed feelings. "Yes," I smiled with tears in my eyes, "Yes, Xiaoxuan. From now on, the two of us will have a good time together." Xiaoxuan nodded solemnly. We hug each other in silence for a moment. "Are you hungry, I'll make dinner." I asked him. "Mom, I don't want to go to school." I was taken aback.Xiaoxuan lowered his head and avoided my gaze. "How can I do it if I don't go to school? You don't have to be afraid of grandma..." I said with difficulty, "I can take care of the school leaders and Teacher Zhao..." "Mom!" Xiaoxuan raised his voice, "I just don't want to go if I don't want to go!" I suddenly couldn't hold back my anger: "Xiaoxuan! Don't you always like to study the most? How can you say such a thing? Mom is going to be angry!" "I just don't want to go! Don't go!!" I raise my hand.Xiaoxuan's face flushed red, but he stared at me stubbornly. I can't beat it. Can't blame the kids.No wonder him. I let out a long sigh: "Then let's take a few days off first and talk later, shall we?" Xiaoxuan's face turned from red to white, and gradually turned into a strange, hopeless expression.On the immature face of a ten-year-old child, this expression is particularly frightening.Xiaoxuan—— "Mrs." Hongmei came back with a full shopping bag. "Have you had dinner yet?" she asked in the kitchen. I came back to my senses: "What else is there at home?" "Yes, yes." Hongmei said cheerfully, "You can steam eggs and stir-fry vegetables. I will do it." This heartless girl.Xiaoxuan and I looked abnormal, she didn't notice it. In fact, Hongmei's housework is so-so, because she is simple. In the next few days, I stayed at home with Xiaoxuan all day long.There is nothing wrong with Xiaoxuan reading books and learning to play computer games by himself.Hongmei was also curious at first, but she soon calmed down.Slowness is indeed her greatest strength. I only turn on my phone once a day.A lot of missed calls, mostly from Gu Fenghua, but also from Bai Lu and colleagues from other companies.I think it's those shitty things, and I ignore them all.If Gu Fenghua is really urgent, he can come to the door in person.I couldn't be more clear in my heart that apart from the company's business needs, Gu Fenghua actually doesn't care about my life or death. I don't need his concern either. I took the initiative to call Lu Tianmin and Shen Xiuwen.One didn't answer, and the other simply shut down.For three days in a row, always.I feel sorry for myself. Fortunately, Xiaoxuan is in good condition.I also strictly ordered myself to meditate and accompany Xiaoxuan through this difficult time, which is my most important task. In this way, at noon on the fourth day, someone rang the doorbell. Hongmei ran out of the kitchen in a panic, I stopped her: "I'll go." It was Zhao Ningnian who came. "Xiaoxuan hasn't come to school these days, I'll come and see him." Teacher Zhao was wearing a blue shirt with white stripes and black trousers, clean and simple.It gives people a sense of security at a glance.He was about the same age as Lu Tianmin, but he didn't have Lu Tianmin's ethereal air at all.Everything about Zhao Ningnian was certain.He was so decent that I was a little uneasy. "Hello, Teacher Zhao." Xiaoxuan came over to say hello, obviously guilty. "Xiaoxuan, are you feeling better?" Zhao Ningnian said kindly, "I brought you the homework of the past few days." He sat down on the sofa and carefully checked Xiaoxuan's homework.The child soon became unrestrained, and the two talked and laughed. After about an hour, Zhao Ningnian took his leave. I sent him out the door, and he said, "Mother Xiaoxuan, can I talk to you alone?" Of course I can't say no. We sat down in the cafeteria of the community clubhouse.Zhao Ningnian stared at the coffee in front of him and remained silent for a long time.I wait. "Xiaoxuan should go back to school." He finally spoke. "certainly." "The confinement at home is particularly detrimental to the mental health of the child, who needs a normal social life." I smiled: "If Teacher Zhao can persuade Xiaoxuan to go to school, I will be very grateful." Zhao Ningnian frowned suspiciously. "Ms. Zhao doesn't believe that Xiaoxuan refuses to go to school, right?" I said, "You came here to check if I put my son under house arrest? Have you come to a conclusion?" His expression was a little embarrassed. I took a sip of coffee and said, "Mr. Zhao, I don't know if anyone has said anything to you. But I want to point out that if I hadn't insisted and worked hard, Xiaoxuan wouldn't have been able to get into this place at all." It is impossible for me to become your student even in this school. You simply cannot imagine how much I have paid to achieve this. How could I not want Xiaoxuan to go to school?" I continued: "Perhaps what happened a few days ago left a bad impression on Teacher Zhao. But the fact is that Jing Xiaoxuan's grandmother violated the agreement and caused great harm to Xiaoxuan. What right does she have to be a villain first?" Sue!" "Mother Xiaoxuan, I don't intend to comment on your family affairs." Zhao Ningnian said carefully, "I only care about Xiaoxuan's healthy growth. Children with single parents are often fragile psychologically. Xiaoxuan has lost his father. You still want to completely cut off his contact with his father's relatives, especially close relatives like grandmother, is it ill-considered?" I sneered: "Sure enough, Ni Shuangxia came to be a lobbyist." Zhao Ningnian lowered his eyelids, he has a pair of thick eyebrows very similar to Lu Tianmin.My heart grew bitter.Ni Shuangxia's wrinkles and gray hair aroused the sympathy of this kind-hearted young man.Although he concealed his hatred for me with good upbringing and professionalism, I knew that he had judged me in his heart as a vain, hypocritical, and domineering woman—a shrew. It doesn't matter, shrews can speak freely. "Ms. Zhao, I know better than you the problem of single parents." I lit a cigarette, "Jing Xueping, Xiaoxuan's father, came from a single parent family. His mother, Ni Shuangxia, was a widow in her thirties. The son was brought up and sent to university. Great mother, hard work. She thinks she has reason to treat her son as private property. I am not afraid of Teacher Zhao's jokes. The biggest rival in love I have encountered in my life is that old woman! Because her son loves Me, she hated me to the bone. Jing Xueping and I spent every day in her shadow after we got married. I don't like it, so it's okay if I leave? Oh, but she said that I was ruthless to her son, and she hated me even more! Jing Xueping died of illness a few years after divorcing me, and now she doesn't even have the debt It's also on my head, and I keep saying that I killed her son. It's really a crime I want to add, so there's nothing to worry about!" Zhao Ningnian remained silent, frowning more and more tightly. I leaned towards him: "Mr. Zhao, do you still insist that allowing Xiaoxuan and Ni Shuangxia to associate is good for his healthy growth?" "In short, no matter what reason anyone gives, I will never allow Ni Shuangxia to touch Xiaoxuan, never!" I concluded. "Of course, as a guardian, you have this right. But at the same time, I have a suggestion, you should think carefully about how to prevent Xiaoxuan from following in his father's footsteps." I was taken aback. Zhao Ningnian stood up: "Sorry, there is still class in the afternoon, so I will leave first. By the way," he said calmly, "Just now Xiaoxuan promised me to return to school from tomorrow. I will make sure that he No one will harass you on campus. Please feel free.” I stayed alone in the cafe for a long time.I have a deep sense of frustration and humiliation.Because Zhao Ningnian is Xiaoxuan's head teacher, today I spoke with all my heart and soul to him, but what he returned to me was only contempt.I used to think that for Xiaoxuan, I could endure anything and overcome anything.But now I am shaken, I am not a superman, I am just a woman.If I am surrounded by hostility and indifference, how long can I fight alone? Jing Xueping, and his mother.Are they really trying to corner me? I subconsciously took the phone out of my bag and opened it. I pressed Lu Tianmin's number. "Beep...beep..." I was extremely disappointed and was about to hang up, "Hello?" Lu Tianmin's vague voice seemed to come from an alien planet. "You finally answered the phone!" "Well—" His reaction was also slow as if he was on an alien planet, "It's you..." "It's me," I gripped the phone tightly, lest he slip away again, "Tian Min, I've been looking for you for several days. Where are you?" "...Where am I?...Where is it?" There was a bang from the phone. "Tian Min!" "Don't shout, it's okay...why is it so dark? Eh...it's night? Let me think about it, oh, this is Toronto." I breathed a sigh of relief: "Thank God, your brain is not broken." Then I was lost, "When did you go to Canada? Don't tell me, just leave..." Lu Tianmin still said in a low voice, "Miss Zhu Ran, I have to work too. I don't need to remind you what time is it in Toronto?" I heard him let out a big yawn.Suddenly, my heart softened. "I have nothing to do, I just miss you...Go to sleep, Tian Min." "Zhu Ran," his voice suddenly became clear, "Should we continue like this?" "Well?" "Marry me," he said. I'm at a loss for words, this guy is too freewheeling.Think of one out is one out. "Hey! Did you hear me?" "Hear, hear." "Good or not?" "Tian Min," I said in a voice that I also felt numb, "I'd better wait until you wake up to discuss such an important issue, okay?" Lu Tianmin blew a loud whistle: "It's really troublesome." I know him too well.Sleeping alone in the middle of the night, Lu Tianmin's desire for his girlfriend was too strong, so he proposed to me.At this moment, he is more sincere than anyone else.But tomorrow morning, he will forget everything he said.His forgetting is equally sincere. I will not blame Lu Tianmin for this, on the contrary I am grateful to him.He made me realize that there are endless possibilities in life, as long as you dare to release yourself. Of course I will not marry Lu Tianmin, but I see from Lu Tianmin the life I hope to bring to Xiaoxuan.My son, I don't want him to grow up to be like Jing Xueping, Gu Fenghua, or even Zhao Ningnian.I hope he grows into another Lu Tianmin. Like a free and fresh wind, it does not stay for anyone, but everyone is refreshed wherever it passes. Unruly, free, without any burden of morality and responsibility, despise all secular standards, and live only for yourself.This is a life worth living. Xiaoxuan, how can I create conditions for you? I said to the phone: "Tian Min, I'm thinking about taking Xiaoxuan away." "Hmm..." He was no longer excited, and began to feel drowsy again. "Canada, Australia or the United States...Tian Min, help me plan the plan, please? Find the best plan." "whatever." "Come back soon, we will talk in detail then." He must have fallen asleep immediately, and my heart was beating briskly.This is the first time I have seriously considered using Lu Tianmin's services - immigration agency. In fact, Lu Tianmin and I met because of an immigration project promotion meeting. About six or seven months ago.One afternoon, I was supposed to meet with someone at the Shangri-La Hotel.Purely business talks.The two sides talked for forty-five minutes in the coffee shop in the hotel lobby.Because the other party had to catch a plane, he left in a hurry.It's just after three o'clock, and I feel a little tired.There is nothing too important to rush back to the company, and it will be a little early to go home, and Xiaoxuan has not finished class yet.I ordered another cup of coffee and sipped it slowly.The cafe was very deserted, except for me, there was only one man sitting on a high stool near the counter with his back to me.The hotel lobby is bustling, as if some event is going on. The strange thing is, no matter which direction I look in, I can't avoid seeing that man.In early spring in Shanghai, the outdoors are still damp and cold.He was wearing a high-necked gray sweater with a slender waist.A black leather jacket and a camel scarf were draped on the back of the chair beside him.I couldn't help but imagine how he looked when he stood up.Are the legs long and straight?Is it in proper proportion with the upper body?I look forward to seeing him wrapped in furs and scarves; I look forward to seeing his face. Let's go.I sighed to myself and called for the checkout.Walking out of the coffee shop, a model of a beach house erected in the lobby attracted me. It turned out that a grand investment immigration promotion conference was being held here.Looking at the introduction on the billboard next to it, all the people invited to participate in the meeting are wealthy people. The beach is so beautiful, and the model of the villa is also very attractive.I was watching it intently, when someone said in my ear: "Excuse me... is this yours?" It was him, the man in the coffee shop.He still had a business card in his hand.my card. When invoicing, I am used to handing over my business card to the account desk, which saves me the trouble of dictating the company name.I left in a hurry just now, and I didn't take any invoice or business card. My face was slightly hot, and I stretched out my hand: "Thank you." He put his hands back into his pockets. "Well?" "I want to keep your business card." He said it as it should be, with a hint of charm in his eyebrows. I was a little annoyed: "You...then why come to me, it's unnecessary!" "In order for you to see my face clearly." In an instant, the heat rushed to the neck.The embarrassment of being seen through by such a young man.His face, how should I put it, is really not so handsome.But this face reminds me of my own youth. Decades of passing years seemed to be easily erased by this youthful smile. It was only later that I found out that Lu Tianmin's company was the organizer of the immigration promotion conference.But he is not doing his job properly at the serious business scene.Of course, this is also his usual style. I asked him why he noticed me. "Because you look both beautiful and sad." "Fart." I was honest with him. Under my white eyes, Lu Tianmin was rocking back and forth with a smile. After laughing, he said, "Actually, when I saw you, you were sitting there in good condition, but it seemed like you were about to run away at any time." I was surprised: "Am I so flustered?" "It's not panic, it's out of mind. Your heart is forced to live in this body, and it wants to break free." I am silent. He hugged me: "At that time, I thought, this woman, I can help her. I want to take her away from this terrible life." Since we were together, on and off, there have been many times he has said the same thing to me, but I never mean it. My attitude towards Lu Tianmin is so peculiar.On the one hand, I am very concerned about the relationship with him; on the other hand, I am skeptical about all this.I'm absolutely serious about getting along with him, but I always feel that neither he nor I are looking for more innocence in this relationship than just the other person. Sober and obsessed, I am such a contradictory middle-aged woman.Once upon a time, I also had the courage to go to the end of the world for love; today, what I have left is just a gesture. 卢天敏走眼，他不知我已失落爱的信念；但他又看得很准，对生活我还没有彻底死心。是命运让我遇见他。今天，我终于决定把他的提议当真了。 Walk.即便不为我自己，为了小轩，仍然值得一拼。 下一个问题：怎么走？ 卢天敏提议结婚。肯定是最简便易行的办法。可惜连我自己这关都过不去，何况还有小轩。倒是可以选择一个妥当的移民项目，卢天敏定能大大地提供帮助。唯有一样，不论哪种移民，都需要一大笔钱。 money. 我把手机在掌中翻来覆去地摆弄。money. 我苦笑，终于还是兜回来。爱情、自由、未来……这个世界中所有动人的词汇，最终还是汇聚到一个字上——钱。 我翻到沈秀雯的号码，说到钱，她是最能帮我的人。 友谊，绝不应该用钱去试探。但话说回来，假如这种时候都靠不上，要朋友来何用。 我一边鄙视自己，一边狠狠心拨出号码。 还是已关机。我又拨她家里的电话，仍然无人接听。沈秀雯是个喜怒无常的女人，类似情况过去也发生过若干次，我倒不是特别担心。看来必须亲自去找一找她。我很懊恼，将不得不在沈秀雯的情绪低潮期开口谈钱。 固然，我并非只有这么一个选择。顾风华承诺过我不少公司股份。如能兑现，也是一大笔现金，当能应付移民之用。 只是，需要谈判。 我去了公司。 好几天没上班，办公室里一切照旧。几个部下本来在轻松说笑，乍一见到我神情都有些发僵。我刚在自己的小间坐下，他们就赶紧轮流来汇报。 我随口问：“白璐呢？” 副经理答：“白璐在顾总办公室。” “顾总找她？” “是，谈了有一会儿了。” 我想不出顾风华和白璐有什么可谈的。除了跑腿打杂，白璐没有任何可资一用的技能。况且白璐现是我的助理，顾风华何以跳过我直接找她？ 我不爽。 处理了一番公务。半小时过去，白璐还是没有从顾风华的办公室出来。我不想再等。直接走过去，敲门。 “谁？”顾风华在里面问。 "it's me." 房门腾地打开。顾风华满脸怒气地出现在门后。 “朱燃，你来得正好！”他一把将我拽入，随即在我身后关上门。 我一眼就看到，白璐端坐在长沙发的尽头。垂着头。听见响动她抬起脸来，两行清晰的泪痕。 I am surprised.望一眼顾风华。才几天不见，他的面孔发黑，似乎一下子老了许多。他先是阴沉着脸不做声，突然一指白璐：“朱燃，她是你的部下，你劝劝她。” “劝她，做什么？” “当然是为了公司利益，大家的利益！”顾风华看起来很焦躁，“我下楼抽支烟。你和她好好谈谈。总之我再强调一遍，融资是公司的当务之急。头等大事。每个人都要奉献、牺牲。如果做不到，就别在这里混了！” 他一甩手，出去了。 这人简直莫名其妙。但任何事总有原因。 我在白璐身边坐下。她眼睁睁地看着我。泪痕犹在。我第一次发现这女孩有几分姿色。水盈盈的一双眸子，脆弱中透着倔强。最主要的是，有鲜活的生机从这张面孔后渗出来。 我向她微微一笑：“出什么事了？” 自顾风华出去，白璐的神色就逐渐平静，显得很有承受力。她抿了抿嘴唇，然后简洁地回答：“顾总安排给我一件工作，但我无法接受。” "What job?" “他要我去见一个人。” “一个人？谁？” “投资公司的大老板。” “大老板？”我还真没想到。这事看来不简单。 白璐的脸色由白变红。她避开我的目光，轻声说：“顾总讲，投资公司的大老板刚到上海。顾总要我带着融资项目的资料去找他，向他做简报。” 我的脑子一时转不过来：“让你去给投资公司大老板做简报？什么时候？” “顾总说……就今天晚上。”白璐把头垂得更低了。 我盯着她。黑色长发绕过耳廓垂落胸前，粉色仿钻的小耳钉闪着光，娇嫩的耳垂吹弹得破。这女孩身上有种不动声色的魅惑力，之前我怎么没看出来？ “可她竟然拒绝了！”顾风华回来了，神色较之前稍缓。 “投资公司大老板？”我问他，“突然冒出来的？” “什么突然冒出来。你不要瞎讲。人家之前不出面，是让手下人打头阵。如今基础工作就绪，下面报告也打上去了。快到拍板的时候，自然是大老板出场咯。” “哦？人你见过了？” "not yet." “你都没见过，就让白璐去给他做简报？” 顾风华一言不发。 事情的来龙去脉，我大致猜出几分了。 “白璐没有参与过融资的工作，对情况一无所知，是最不合适去做简报的。”我一边说，一边感到恶心。事实上白璐不仅不懂融资，她压根对公司业务一窍不通。让她去给投资公司大老板做简报，简直是个笑话。 这个世界，何以变得如此不堪？ “白璐，你先出去。”顾风华说，“我和朱总有话要谈。” 白璐闷声不响地跑了。 顾风华坐到我对面。一片愁云惨淡。 “朱燃，你知道这次融资对我太重要了。只可成功不可失败。” 我苦笑：“你真的不必对我强调这个。” yes.我为小轩计划的未来，心心念念的自由。我所期盼的畅快人生，莫不系于此。我和顾风华一样迫切地需要融资成功。只有成功，我才能要求兑现股份。 “那位幕后大老板，究竟是什么人物？” 顾风华咳了一声：“据说是个传奇人物，发过大财也坐过牢。几沉几浮。如今手上握着好几支投资基金，每个都有数十亿的规模。地产、运输、甚至矿业，都有涉及。” “呵，财富榜上排第几？”我揶揄道，“我去查查资料。” 顾风华闷闷不乐地说：“查不到什么细节的。网上的资料都是统过稿的。此人作风低调，行事难以捉摸。” “对他来讲我们这是太小的项目了，有必要亲自过问吗？” “按理说是。但最终决策还是在他那里。手下那帮家伙，统统是傀儡。” 我冷笑：“是这帮傀儡中的哪一位建议你用美人计？” 顾风华仰起头，干笑。 我又是一阵恶心。看来没猜错，这位神秘富豪的确有此隐癖。人要是下作起来，钱就是最大的帮凶。 “其实那也算不得什么。男人嘛。呵呵。”顾风华讪讪地说。 “为什么让白璐去？夜总会里请个高级小姐不是更好？哪怕你出血本，找个小明星去伺候，至少有职业素养，懂得如何提供优质服务。让白璐去，你不怕反而搞砸了吗？” 我话说得太直接，顾风华的脸上挂不住了。 “朱燃，我承认此事上我有欠考虑，但我也是没办法啊！你想想看，那种身家的人，假如真有这方面的嗜好，别说小明星了，恐怕连大明星也都玩腻了。所以……唉，算了算了，这事就不提了罢！” “好，我会叮嘱白璐守口如瓶。” “可是——”顾风华仍旧忧心忡忡。 “老顾，你到底在担心什么？之前的形势不是很好吗？几轮审查都通过了。他们没有理由不投资的。” 顾风华把整个上身朝我倾过来，一副推心置腹的模样。 “朱燃，我想速战速决。最怕的是夜长梦多，横生波折。” "can you?" 他的脸色阴沉下来：“你不知道，梁宏志要挟过我好几次。” “梁宏志？” “他非要我答应，投资到位后把三分之二的资金给他，继续研发'守梦人'游戏。他的胃口太大了！我告诉他这东西是个无底洞，不管投入多少都没用的，根本产生不了盈利。如此下去整个顾臣集团都会被拖垮的。你知道他怎么说？” 我等顾说下去。 “他说顾臣集团早就垮了。” 我喃喃：“他也不是全无道理。” “当然没道理！”顾风华爆发，在办公室里来回踱步，简直是在叫嚷，“这三年来'守梦人'给我们带来了什么？食之无味，弃之可惜！为了维持这个概念，我不得不用其他业务的利润来填它的空子。偏偏这个大火坑，填多少死多少。'守梦人'游戏早就没救了！” “但是目前我们需要这个幌子。” “没错。可也就是个幌子而已。赶紧把投资拿到手，我就能扩大其它有利可图的业务，公司才能生存下去。如果真像梁宏志要求的，我把大部分投资交给他去开发新版'守梦人'，那才是死路一条。” 我叹息，火中取栗的滋味不会好受，顾风华早该有心理准备的。 我说：“梁宏志是偏执狂，和他不能使用正常人的逻辑。” “可我担心，他若是一味这样胡闹下去，融资只怕会被他搅黄！” "Is it that serious?" 顾风华曾经信心十足，似乎梁宏志完全在他的掌控之中，今天却危言耸听。顾风华为什么要自揭其短？我的预感渐渐成型。 “太严重了。朱燃，现在只有你能帮我。” 我淡淡地“嗯”，倦意侵袭四肢百骸。“你别让梁宏志接触投资方就是了。他掀不起什么风浪。” 顾风华相当尴尬。 “这恐怕避免不了。你记得上次那个乔纳森吗？” Of course I do.健壮的麻省理工博士。 “他提出必须和梁宏志会面。” 我深深地叹了口气。活着为何如此艰难？ “梁宏志则要挟我，如不答应他的条件，他就把慧龙收购案的老底揭给投资公司看，和我同归于尽。这个无赖！流氓！” “那样的话，他自己也得不到任何好处。” “你不是也说了？和梁宏志用不上正常人的逻辑！对付他必须有非常手段。”顾风华踌躇着，“朱燃，现时只有你能帮我。” 我直视顾风华：“我？我能有什么非正常的手段？” 顾风华终于露出些许不安和羞愧，但做戏的成分居多。人的良心要时常唤醒方能保持警惕，顾风华的良心，很早之前就被他丢进深山古墓了。 只听他声情并茂地讲：“朱燃，梁宏志不怕我，他怕的是你。你去说服他，一定有效果。” “他怕的是景雪平。” “那不是一样嘛？” 我麻木地说：“景雪平已经死了。” “所以才请你出面嘛。”顾风华把声音压得低低的，“商业欺诈是一回事；杀人是另一回事。梁宏志再偏执，这点还是懂的。” kill. 我把自己锁进小间。也不知过了多久，有人敲门：“朱总，我可以进来吗？” 是白璐。 她在门外说：“已经七点半了。您要加班吗？” 果然，开放办公区已经空空荡荡，灯都灭了。只在大门边开着一盏应急灯。一小圈寥落的白光，像无主的灵魂被抛弃在那里。 加班？不，我摇摇头。浑身无力。好像刚生了场大病。 “您还好吗？要不要我送送您？”她问得小心翼翼。脸上有那么一份诚意。不多不少，但足够打动我。 我们一起上路了。由白璐驾驶我的奥迪车，方向是公司设在开发区里的研发部。顾风华肯定不赞成我的做法，但我自己开不了车。况且还要考虑如何返回。那里地处偏僻，晚上连出租车都叫不到。 其实都是借口。真相是我害怕，怕得要死。一路上双腿都在发抖，怎么也止不住。白璐把车开得又快又稳，以她的敏感必定察觉到我的异样，但她保持沉默。 这女孩的城府实在让我惊讶，可是我依赖她。世上我几乎已无人可以依赖。 晚高峰的尾声，出开发区进市中心的车挤满了对面的车道，热热闹闹地往家赶。我们这边则畅通无阻。越向前开，道路越宽阔，前方越黑暗。 还有很长一段路。为了分散注意力，我和白璐闲聊：“你车开得不错。很少见到开车这么好的女孩。” “谢谢朱总夸奖。” “什么时候学的驾照？” “不久前。”她轻轻地翘起嘴角，“在我找工作的时候。” 我本来随口一问，现在却产生了兴趣：“你想当司机？” 白璐的脸红了：“当然不是。” “那考什么驾照？一般女孩子找工作，不是都弄些电脑文员财会之类的证书吗？” 她的脸更红了：“我的钱只够学一样。” 一个女孩子为找工作，用所有的钱学驾照。我更不理解了：“驾照有什么用？” 白璐向我侧过脸来，灿然一笑：“这几天我一直在当司机，真的有用哎。” 我很讶异。 她把自己表达得如此鲜明，又如此暧昧，绝非常见的懵懂年轻人。这个白璐，心机太深沉。她究竟是什么人？ 我劝解自己，神经太紧张了吧？白璐什么都不知道。陌生人而已。 其实何止紧张，我的神经都快要绷断了。不知不觉中，车已驶入通往研发部三层小楼的岔道。沿途昏暗的路灯下面，灌木绿化低矮无序，即使在白天也增加不了美观，只是垃圾和流浪猫狗的栖所。 In front of.夜雾中竖起三层方形的建筑。像块灰色的巨砖，没有一丝光从缝隙里透出来。 “人都走了吧？” 白璐停下车。她头一次见到这个阴森的所在，也害怕了，嗓音直打颤。 我知道即使别人都走了，但梁宏志会在。小楼的顶层有一间终日不见天日的暗房。自顾臣集团购入慧龙，租下此处当研发中心，梁宏志就住进来。办公，生活，全都在这里。 员工渐渐占满小楼。梁宏志名义上是研发中心主管，却很少走出他的“暗室”。他习惯晚上工作。昼伏夜出。开会也在“暗室”附属的小会议室。 公司上下对梁宏志有个别称——“吸血鬼”。因为从没人在日光下见过他。 今夜，我奉命来和“鬼”谈判。 我让白璐留在一楼大厅等待。我独自搭乘狭窄的电梯上楼。整栋楼黑得像实心的。只有三楼的最尽头处，亮着一盏白炽灯。灯下就是“暗室”大门。 门从里面打开。“鬼”在等我。 室内一样不见灯光。只有满屋的电脑屏幕，映出一张青中泛白的长脸。活生生的鬼脸。见到我，梁宏志朝我咧开嘴。我不禁倒退一步。那张嘴里像随时会挂出舌头来。 “顾风华孬种，派女人出面。”死气沉沉的声音。假如鬼真的会说话，大约如此吧。 我远远地站在门边。全封闭的房间里，人体的秽浊与机器的废气混在一起，浓重得令人窒息。 “是我自己要来的。” “你？”他仰头大笑，“朱燃，为了你好，我劝你还是赶紧离开顾臣公司，离开顾风华。” “是要离开，但不是现在。”我咬牙道，“我不能空着两手走。总得拿到回报。” “你也一样。”我又说，“我们都付出了太大的代价，谁也不想最后落得一场空。” 梁宏志很不耐烦：“你去跟顾风华讲，休想弄到钱就把我一脚踢开。你告诉他，我随时可以叫他完蛋！没有我梁宏志，没有慧龙和'守梦人'，他一分钱都搞不到！” 我的下颚生疼，可是拼命让自己口齿清晰。我一字一顿地说：“梁宏志你听着。没有你，我们照样可以弄到多钱。没有我们，你就会进监狱！” 梁宏志从椅子上弹起来：“你什么意思？！”声音里充满恐惧。 我说：“纪春茂是怎么失踪的？” 梁宏志不响，死死盯着我。 “景雪平告诉过我一些事情……我至今连顾风华都没透露。但是，若你刻意破坏融资，为一己之利断大家的财路，我必定揭发你！” “不不不，你没有证据！”梁宏志狂叫起来，拼命摇头。 “我有证据，景雪平给我的。” 梁宏志瘫软在座椅上。 我用仅存的力气说：“记住：你不仁，我不义。” 我伏在卫生间的水池前干呕时，白璐出现在我身边。镜中，她的脸色和我一样惨白。 “怎么？”我无力地问。 “楼下太黑了。我、我一个人怕……鬼。” “傻姑娘，哪有什么鬼。”其实人就是鬼，鬼本是人。人怕鬼，鬼也怕人。真不懂为什么要怕来怕去的。我靠在水池旁咯咯笑起来。 白璐连扶带拽地把我弄上了车。 回去的路上白璐更加沉闷，我却很兴奋，很想说话。 我想起来时的话题，问她：“父母也同意你学驾照？” 她没有立即回答。 夜已深，高架上依旧车水马龙。黑夜中人们继续奔忙，有千万条理由。但真正的原因只有一个——他们恐惧。 白璐终于开口了，冷冰冰的：“我母亲在我上学前就去世了。我从没见过父亲。” "Sorry." 我不觉意外。白璐身上的某些蹊跷，似乎有了答案。 “你一定过得很不容易。” "It's okay." 真好笑，我自己这么狼狈，还去同情别人。是为了找些优越感来平衡吗？ “即使父母双全，成长也是件很艰难的事。”白璐把话题从自己身上引开，很老练。“朱总，可以问你一个问题吗？” "Ok?" “为什么和小轩的爸爸分开？” 不问则已，一问惊人。没想到她会这样直截了当。 见我不吱声，白璐轻声解释，“我从小没有父亲，所以……我很心疼小轩。我觉得父亲对孩子特别重要。” “那要看什么样的父亲。一个父亲能教给孩子最宝贵的东西，是责任心。可悲的是，小轩的爸爸是个完全没有责任心的男人。分手纵容不能全怪罪一方，但离婚时他强占夫妻共有的唯一一套房产，害得我和小轩在外借宿很长时间。仅从这个表现上来讲，你觉得他能算得上是一个好父亲吗？”我一口气说完，心中感到无可名状地畅快。 车正好停在一盏红灯前。白璐的面颊显得特别红润。年轻就是优势，折腾到现在还能有这样好的气色。谁不曾年轻过，谁也不会永远年轻。 我关切地问：“白璐，有男朋友了吗？” 她一愣：“还没有。”