C50 Trap

Huo Niannian slumped, her spirits a blend of helplessness and melancholy. The monotony of being cooped up at home was truly tiresome. Yet, Gu Tingshen's concerns weren't unfounded; as Director Gu's significant other, who would dare hire her? And who could afford to?

With these thoughts in mind, she noticed Gu Tingshen was already immersed in his work. With no better options, Huo Niannian draped herself over the couch, her mind adrift.

Gu Tingshen, a veritable workaholic, emitted an aura of 'do not disturb' that was palpable. As he worked, he seemed to be enveloped in a subtle halo that was mesmerizing to behold.

Huo Niannian watched him for a time, marveling at the staggering amount of work he tackled.

Ding Xuelan came in a few times to report on the schedule. Feeling restless, Huo Niannian decided to accompany Ding Xuelan on a walk. Sensing her boredom, Ding Xuelan suggested cheerfully, "Madam, there's a gaming console in the lounge. You could play for a while if you're interested."

"No, I'm not much for gaming," Huo Niannian quickly declined with a wave.

Ding Xuelan nodded, appraising Huo Niannian from head to toe. Her outfit was demure, yet the clothes were clearly inexpensive. Was it a preference for simplicity over luxury, or did the President not cherish her as much as he let on?

"Madam, I have some magazines and a collection of clothes and accessories from the Public Relations Department. If you're feeling bored, perhaps you'd like to take a look?" Ding Xuelan offered.

"Sure, why not?" Huo Niannian accepted. After all, she was idle, and like many women, she had an affinity for clothes and accessories.

Huo Niannian trailed behind Ding Xuelan, her curiosity piqued as she bombarded her with questions. Ever the model of obedience, Niannian had a voracious appetite for learning about all sorts of things.

"These samples are from an array of brands," Ding Xuelan explained. "They have to be vetted by a director-level employee before we can forward them to the factory for the initial design phase. The Imperial Group's portfolio includes real estate, film investment, fashion, and various other high-end brands. Moreover, our recent forays into the internet and electronics sectors are showing promising growth," she continued, while Huo Niannian nodded along, grasping the concepts only partially.

Huo Niannian was aware of Gu Tingshen's relentless work schedule, yet the specifics of his day-to-day were a mystery to her. As they chatted, they turned a corner and came upon a spacious room, its door slightly open. Ding Xuelan motioned for her to enter.

Taking the lead, Huo Niannian stepped inside and took in the scene: staff members were focused on their tasks in an area that stretched over a hundred square meters. Garment racks lined the walls, each piece encased in a clear bag for protection against dust. Cabinets brimmed with a variety of accessories—earrings, necklaces, bracelets, scarves, watches, and ties.

"Madam, we combined five smaller rooms to create this space. Each week, we receive sample garments from brands for our review," Ding Xuelan shared with her.