Chapter 135: Two Women, One Drama

Shen Guodong had initially thought that although Wang Dafu was a bit rotund and acted somewhat eccentrically, he didn't seem to have any truly strange quirks. However, watching him punctuate every sentence with elaborate gestures, combined with an underlying air of effeminacy, Shen Guodong couldn't help but wonder if the man had a different sexual orientation.

As he spoke, Shen Guodong quietly moved toward Old Wang, feeling that Wang Dafu was a bit off.

Wang Dafu chimed in, "Oh, Director Wang, why don't we go grab a bite to eat? Since we’ve just concluded a deal this evening—and with the same business partner, no less—surely there’s no harm in having a meal together?"

At these words, Old Wang let out a cold snort. "Forget it. We have to install the machinery first thing tomorrow morning. Never mind, let’s do it another time."

Seeing that both men were unresponsive to his suggestion, Wang Dafu sighed. "Fine then. I’ll go ahead and haul this equipment away. As for the remaining balance, our factory will wire it to you tomorrow once we’re back in the office."

With that, Wang Dafu began loading the truck, his chubby frame struggling visibly with the effort.

Once he had departed, Shen Guodong sighed and remarked, "Phew, that guy is absolutely terrifying."

Old Wang shook his head. "Well, Director, since the equipment is gone, I’ll head home for the day. I’ll be back tomorrow morning to handle the installation."

"Alright, you go ahead. I’m going to head to the office to check on Assistant Zhou."

Back at the office, he found Zhou Meiniang had not yet left. Surprised, Shen Guodong asked, "How come you haven't clocked out yet?"

"Oh, Director, now that you’re a high-ranking official, have you forgotten about the interests of us common folk? We’re still on the clock, you know."

Shen Guodong offered a sheepish grin. "That’s not it at all. I was just thinking about the machinery arriving tomorrow. Do you know what time it’s expected?"

Zhou Meiniang pulled out a folder, checked it, and replied, "It should arrive tomorrow morning, a little after eight. It’s already on the way."

"That’s fine. Make sure to get someone to Line 1 early tomorrow to secure the spot; the rest should be straightforward. I see Baldy has been keeping a close eye on the scrapyard, so you should be able to take it a bit easier."

Zhou Meiniang nodded. "Understood. Also, my cousin says she’d like to invite you to dinner."

Shen Guodong looked surprised. "Is that really necessary? Didn't you find the job for her? Just pass along my thanks to her."

"It’s not just that. She’s a recent graduate, and if she could successfully manage this renovation project, it would be a brilliant highlight on her resume."

Shen Guodong nodded. "That sounds like a good opportunity for her."

"Exactly. Once her family heard about it, they strongly insisted on treating the Director to a meal. They probably want to meet you and establish a connection."

Shen Guodong laughed. "Establishing a connection with me? Couldn't you just handle that through yourself?"

Zhou Meiniang’s face flushed a deep red, as if she had thought of something else. "What are you thinking? I'm just telling you, don't forget about it."

"Alright, I promise. You make the arrangements. Now, you should head home—it's nearly 5:30, and I’m calling it a day myself."

As he strolled home, Shen Guodong found that Liu Yueru had already arrived. Seeing him home early, she asked, "Aren't you supposed to work until six? How are you back so soon?"

"The factory renovation project is mostly wrapped up, so there wasn't much to do. I might have to go in early tomorrow, though, since we’re bringing in new machinery."

Although Liu Yueru didn't pay much attention to the specifics of his career, she had heard from colleagues that Shen Guodong was now the acting director of the Fengcheng First Factory.

"So, I heard you’ve become the acting director of the First Factory. How did that happen?"

Shen Guodong quietly stepped behind his wife, wrapping his arms around her and resting his hands on her slender waist. He breathed in the scent of her hair with his eyes half-closed.

"The old director went away for further training, so I’m just filling in as acting director for the time being. It’s nothing special."

Liu Yueru nodded, smiling. "You’re doing great. My husband is truly the best."

Hearing her call him "husband" so suddenly, Shen Guodong froze; the feeling was simply wonderful.

Liu Yueru noticed his hands had gone still. "What’s wrong? Don't you like it?"

Shen Guodong’s brow furrowed slightly. "Of course I like it. How could I not? I love you to death." As he spoke, his hands began to wander slowly over her body.

Unable to resist, Liu Yueru felt her strength fading. "What are you doing? My sister will be here any minute."

As if on cue, the heavy iron gate outside rang out with a series of loud thuds.

"Open up! Open up! Brother-in-law, sister, I’m here!"

Hearing Liu Yuexian at the door, Shen Guodong frowned. "Damn, she’s punctual."

Liu Yueru laughed. "What’s the matter? No chance for mischief now?"

Shen Guodong sighed. "Fine, fine. I’m going."

As he opened the door, Liu Yuexian grumbled, "What took you so long? You’re so slow at opening a door."

Once inside, she scanned the room. "Is my sister cooking?"

Shen Guodong nodded. "She heard you were coming over tonight, so she went out early to buy some of your favorite dishes."

Liu Yuexian chuckled, "Hehe, my sister is the best. She always buys what I like, unlike you, you smelly brother-in-law—all talk and no action."

Shen Guodong rolled his eyes, deciding to retreat to the sofa rather than engage in a battle of wits with two women.

Liu Yuexian, having nothing to talk about with her brother-in-law, headed into the kitchen to help Liu Yueru. The two women worked with practiced efficiency.

Before long, a meal of four dishes and a soup was ready.