10 Years Ago, 10 Years Later

Chapter 3

"Then that concludes today's meeting. We'll put the notes into a proper proposal later and send the draft to everyone for a preliminary review."

Zhang Zhehan internally draws a deep breath. He closes his notebook, slides his ballpoint into a small loop on the spine, and puts them back into his clutch.

He has been working in this field for many years. After his career took off, he's been getting more and more appointments like this, spending more time meeting with people than actually designing something. It is a field of work that he loves, so he finds most discussions fruitful regardless of the topics they are discussing. However, he cannot deny the fact that sometimes, he really prefers to stay cooped up in his studio, putting his ideas into paper, and coming up with new designs he can show off to his audience.

"Well, management and negotiation skills are important, too."

Thinking this, he rises to his feet and prepares to leave the meeting room but at this moment, a middle-aged man in a suit approaches him.

"Zhehan. Going back to your office soon?" he asks in a friendly tone.

Zhang Zhehan sees him and returns his smile.

"Mr. Bernard. Thank you for having me today. Yes, I'm about to call my assistant to pick me up," replies him.

"How about we go out to have lunch together after this? A new cafe just opened up on the ground floor and I heard it's good," President Bernard laughs, "Oh, but you don't have another lunch meeting appointment today, do you?"

"No. No, I don't."

"Then that's settled. Let's go before the lift gets crowded."

It's impossible for Zhang Zhehan to refuse such an offer. That said, he more or less knows that the reason this man invites him for lunch isn't merely for business talk or chatting about random things. Perhaps the timing is good for him, too. Should the older man bring up that issue again, he will be able to talk it out with him properly.

And it doesn't take long for his guess to be proven right.

"So, have you thought about what I said the other day?" the older man opens up their conversation while taking a sip of his drink, "I met my nephew two days ago and he asked me again if you've already given an answer. Looks like he's pretty eager to meet you."

"I've thought about it," Zhang Zhehan replies, "Though, I must say this isn't a decision I can make on my own. I want to speak with my daughter first and hear what she has to say."

"Ah, yes, yes, of course. Little Xiaoxing, right? How is she doing?"

"She's doing well. Thank you for your concern, Mr. Bernard," Zhang Zhehan smiles at him, "She's in the middle of a school trip right now and won't be back until the day after tomorrow."

"I see. Yes, yes, of course, you need to consider her opinion, too," the older man nods to himself, "That said, my nephew will also be attending our event's opening ceremony and the public exhibition in a few days. You may still end up meeting him either way."

"It's fine. I actually don't mind meeting him at all. I've read some articles about him; he has an in-depth understanding of the design styles I'm currently interested in, so I'm sure we will have an enjoyable conversation."

"I'd love that. Perhaps I'm saying this because he's my dear nephew, but he's a good man. I'm sure he can be...a good companion for you."

President Bernard pushes up his glasses; a kind smile appears on his wrinkled face.

"I know I'm being nosy, but you've been struggling on your own for so long. I feel like it's about time for you to find a reliable partner you can depend on. It will ease your burden somewhat."