Nian Shenâs tone was extremely calm, giving no hint of emotion, yet it was enough to make everyone in the room break out in a cold sweat.
Someone quickly caught on and reprimanded her, "What kind of look is that? Hurry up and get out!"
The person who had gotten into trouble bowed slightly and hurriedly left.
Nian Shenâs response was ambiguous. That phrase "my people" â exactly what did it mean? For the moment, no one could figure it out.
The group quietly observed Heather from all angles, but no one said anything. They politely motioned for her to take a seat and not just stand there.
As Yi Yang said, her appearance had no bearing on todayâs social interactions. The key was, she was someone brought along by Nian Shen. No one was going to question it too much.
And even if they misunderstood something, it wouldnât matter. Therefore, Heather said nothing, silently taking her seat off to the side.
The group discussed some business matters. Nian Shenâs multinational investment company had an immense registered capital. To put it bluntly, if anyone managed to secure Nian Shenâs favor, itâd be like landing a fat sheep. Everyone tread carefully to entertain him.
During the dinner, someone raised a glass to him.
Heather thought that, since she had already come along, she should fulfill the task Yi Yang had entrusted to her. She rose slightly and intercepted the glass of alcohol. "I hope Iâm not being too forward, but I would like to say that I just accompanied Mr. Nian from the hospital earlier. He recently had his stomach pumped, so he shouldnât drink. Allow me to drink on his behalf as a show of respect."
"Ah, and you are..."
"Iâm Mr. Nianâs secretary. My surname is Hai."
"Ah, Secretary Hai! Surely an outstanding career woman!"
The implication of this remark was clear: she hadnât attained her position through her looks alone. It meant her capabilities must be remarkable. Otherwise, why would Nian Shen specifically bring her to an occasion like this?
"Why did Mr. Nian just arrive and already need a stomach pumping? Is he unaccustomed to Linyangâs environment?"
Nian Shen followed Heatherâs lead and continued, "I ate something bad. Food poisoning."
"Mr. Nian should really go home and rest! We could always meet again another day."
Heather downed the entire glass of alcohol in one gulp and said, "The doctor did advise the same, and Iâve tried persuading him repeatedly. But our boss insisted that he couldnât let all the executives make the trip here for nothing. He came no matter what. I couldnât change his mind. I hope you all will go easy with the drinks. Iâm not a very strong drinker myself."
The clever strategy at a drinking event is always to say you can handle fewer drinks than you actually canâwhen youâve reached your limit, itâll suffice.
"Of course, of course!"
That move by Heather not only explained the situation but also showed respect, ensuring others wouldnât insist she drink too much.
Nian Shen raised the glass in front of him. "Iâll drink water instead of wine and offer everyone a toast."
...
After the gathering ended, Yi Yang was waiting in another car at the entrance.
The drunken Heather was supported by Nian Shen as they walked out together.
"Mr. Nian was truly considerate tonight. Please extend our apologies to Secretary Hai as wellâit was improper of us to let a woman drink so much. We let things get out of hand. I apologize for any offense caused."
"No need to worry. She wonât think twice about it. Sheâs my secretary; Iâll make sure she gets home safely. Donât worry about it. Letâs meet again next time."
"Then Mr. Nian, regarding the matter we discussed..."
Heather suddenly staggered and collapsed.
Nian Shen quickly caught her in his arms. "Apologies, she really canât take any more. I need to get her home to rest right away. Weâll be in touch later."
"...Alright... Alright then," the other replied with an awkward smile. "Letâs stay in touch."