"Is that so? Where are you working now?"
"I've been recuperating lately. The doctor advised against any strenuous labor, so I haven't sought employment yet."
"How troubling—no job and no medical funds." Madam Long frowned. "Tell you what, I'll arrange a position for you in our company—a role that's less demanding."
He Meiwei's eyes sparkled with gratitude. "Auntie, that would be wonderful. Truly... I'm so overwhelmed with thanks, I hardly know what to say."
"It's nothing—just a small favor."
The land reclamation at the university in City A proceeded with remarkable speed.
The waters were drained, and soil was tirelessly hauled day and night.
Before long, the project was completed.
Gu Lili arrived early that morning.
Her attire was simple—
A white camisole paired with denim shorts, and flat shoes on her feet.
She conducted an elaborate ritual on-site, and by its end, despite the scorching summer heat, she felt a chill.
The principal, noticing her pale complexion, quietly inquired, "Miss Gu, are you all right?"
"I'm fine. Is there any tea?"
"Yes, please come to my office."
Gu Lili followed him, sipped warm tea, and rested briefly before regaining her composure.
Performing the ritual was draining to one's spirit and energy.
"Since all is settled here, I won't linger. I shall take my leave."
"Miss Gu, please join us for a meal. You've done the school a great favor, and since you refused payment, we feel truly indebted. Would you honor us with your company? It's a small token of our gratitude. Please, say you will."
Arriving just in time for dinner, she consented after a moment's thought.
The restaurant was chosen nearby to the school. To avoid troubling her, the principal only invited a few school officials and police officers.
Since she drove, Gu Lili abstained from alcohol, sipping only tea and fruit juice.
After the meal, as she stepped out of the restroom, she was startled to see Antonio standing barely a meter away.
"This is the women's restroom."
"I know. Miss Gu, may I have five minutes alone with you?"
Gu Lili's tone was frosty. "There's no need. We're not acquainted."
Antonio's blue eyes flickered with displeasure. "May I have your phone number?"
She refused sharply, "Do you not understand? I said we're not acquainted and there's no need."
As she tried to pass, Antonio seized her arm.
Almost instinctively, Gu Lili retaliated with a swift kick, causing him to stagger several steps back before regaining balance.
Watching her retreating figure without turning back, Antonio's gaze darkened.
From her demeanor, it was crystal clear—she wouldn't grant him even the courtesy of friendship.
Indeed, a wealthy young madam with an exemplary husband had no interest in him.
Yet he found himself irresistibly drawn to her.
He had shattered his own rule—
Never pursue a woman already taken, especially one who was married.
Now, this woman was like a vortex—dangerous, yet impossible to resist.
...
Gu Lili drove home, her mind utterly untroubled by the incident.
At home, Long Yubei was reading under the cool breeze of the air conditioner.
Noticing her return, he volunteered, "I have news for you."
"What is it?"
"My mother somehow met He Meiwei and arranged for her to join the company. She said the poor girl has no medical funds."
Gu Lili chuckled lightly, "What a dramatic mess."