You Are Still Here

Chapter 29

Yun Jin recalled telling Shen Ju An confidently "We're nothing alike." It turned out that Ju An was more insightful afterall. In that moment, he had merely looked at her and smiled. In retrospect, Yun Jin found it hilarious as well. She wasn't as independent as she believed herself to be. She didn't know if it was the various situations that called for it or because of her innate personality but she found herself extremely reliant on Cheng Zheng.

She wasn't as adamant in protecting her pride and dignity as her younger self. Since she had no heart or courage to leave, then she'd rather not dwell on her disappointing change and remain by his side. By treating him a little better everyday, her conscience eased up. Day by day, Yun Jin was even more attentive to Cheng Zheng's needs and more tolerant of his every mood. In return, Cheng Zheng was more in love with her than ever. If this was not bliss, then what was it?

After working in the company for nearly two years, Yun Jin's good performance in Customer Service caught the team leader's attention. Thus the scout, who was chiefly responsible for her recruitment, sent an employee from Human Resource to enquire if she was willing to transfer to Market Analysis where she would participate in planning marketing strategies for enterprises. Yun Jin did not need to think twice; although Market Analysis was not as easygoing as Customer Service, there was brighter job prospects. She really needed this opportunity.

Thereafter, her workload increased tremendously. There were meetings to prepare for, proposals to write, marketing research to conduct amond other tasks. Working overtime became the norm and she even had to entertain potential clients. Yun Jin had to maintain the delicate balance between looking after Cheng Zheng meticulously and meeting the demands of her job. She shuttled between home and her workplace endlessly such that her walking pace became faster than the average person.

Cheng Zheng's career was as promising as had been expected – he was young, intelligent and had a good grasp on his field of work. He was also willing to put in the hours and effort so it came as no surprise to anyone that he rose up to the position of group leader quickly. Following the promotion, he became more swamped with work.

Working overtime was a given. Cheng Zheng also had to review every single blueprint that was drawn. As part of his training, he was offered many opportunities to go overseas for various projects. To everyone's surprise, this fine young man who appeared so carefree was actually easily homesick. Unless absolutely crucial, he was unwilling to travel. Even if he had to, he would return home at the first opportunity and never dallied in the foreign land.

As for social activities, he would reject all invitations. Since he was unable to get off work punctually, he cut down on his recreational time instead. He was never shy in proclaiming that he was going home to his lover. Everyone was curious to know the identity of his mysterious lover; how powerful was she that Cheng Zheng, a fine member of the male gender, could be so devoted to her?

Yun Jin knew she ought to be grateful she had such an adoring partner but she couldn't help but feel more pressured instead. Since Cheng Zheng was so attached to her, naturally he expected the same affection in return. So whenever she neglected him, be it for work or any reasonable cause, he would sulk. She tried her best to please Cheng Zheng by spending all her spare time with him.

His love was so overwhelming that it became a burden she had to bear.

One autumn night, Yun Jin and two other colleagues finally wrapped up dinner with a client. Although her alcohol tolerance level had vastly improved from before due to the constant meetings such as this, she couldn't walk straight after the client had plied her with two cups.

"Yun Jin are you alright? Do you need a lift back?" her male colleague asked in concerned through his lowered window as he drove up to her.

"Thanks but it's fine!" she smiled and waved at her colleague. Cheng Zheng's jealousy made her instinctively avoid any situations in which he might get the wrong impression. Cheng Zheng was currently overseas on assignment and wasn't able to pick her up tonight. Thus, she was able to stay on for the full dinner course. If he were to see her in her current state, his ire would surely be raised.