C21 Vast Knowledge

The sensation of going a whole night without sleep was unpleasant. Zhang Xiaodong could sense his mental state becoming slightly erratic.

Nalan Feifei had also gone to bed late last night, particularly after being startled by Zhang Xiaodong's singing. She insisted that he make amends for the emotional distress caused.

As a result, the massage session dragged on for an extended period, leaving Zhang Xiaodong's hands feeling numb. It was agonizing for him to be in the presence of such a beauty and not delve deeply into the study of human heritage.

"Even though you're technically the new guy, you should at least look the part. What's the excuse for being late on your first day?" Mu Shenqing was on the verge of losing her patience. Her personal bodyguard seemed to lack attentiveness.

Work started at eight o'clock, yet Zhang Xiaodong strolled in at ten, disheveled and nonchalant.

Mu's Group's success hinged on maintaining high standards for its employees, which explained its current achievements.

"As your personal bodyguard, I can ensure your safety. Being early or late for work isn't an issue; I'm always prepared," Zhang Xiaodong stated, spreading his hands in a gesture of resignation. He had to maintain a certain level of guard around this woman with whom he shared a complicated history.

Zhang Xiaodong had his principles when it came to being paid for his services.

"You say you're prepared? Is this the state in which you prepare for me? Even the eighty-year-old ladies at my company wouldn't show up looking like you do after a two-hour delay," Mu Shenqing said with a mix of exasperation and disbelief, fighting the urge to discipline him on the spot.

But recalling Zhang Xiaodong's impressive combat skills from the other day, Mu Shenqing managed to suppress the impulse.

"As your personal bodyguard, I certainly have made some preparations. My tardiness doesn't mean I haven't been productive," Zhang Xiaodong said, shrugging helplessly before settling into the sofa to pour himself some tea.

Without an office of his own, Zhang Xiaodong, as the boss's personal bodyguard, had no choice but to remain close to Mu Shenqing.

Confronted with such a challenging adversary day in and day out, Zhang Xiaodong was at a loss for how to handle the situation.

At Mu's Group, we never give opportunists a chance. Now, you can tell me why you were late and what preparations you've made.

I pay you twenty thousand yuan a month, not for you to just coast along. Although I acknowledge your abilities, if they can't be utilized for the benefit of our company, I fail to see their purpose.

Mu Shenqing's demeanor turned icy as she regarded Zhang Xiaodong with a cool gaze.

In that moment, Mu Shenqing embodied the archetype of a domineering CEO, imposing her authority on subordinate staff. Zhang Xiaodong could feel a subtle pressure emanating from her.

"During this time, I've accomplished two significant tasks. The first was to identify all the important buildings and potential hazards in the vicinity of our company. There are five supermarkets, seven coffee shops, and four intersections nearby. These are all high-risk areas.

Moreover, it takes fifteen minutes to drive from the underground parking garage to the nearest police station without traffic. This information could be crucial for a rapid response."

Zhang Xiaodong reluctantly provided a detailed account. He had gathered this information as quickly as possible.

Driven by instinct, he had mapped out the local geography during a two-hour traffic jam.

"Excellent. Now you're starting to act like a real personal bodyguard. Otherwise, I might have thought you were here on vacation."

Mu Shenqing leaned back in her chair, appraising Zhang Xiaodong from head to toe.

Despite her wealth and power, which might suggest she could do as she pleased, Mu Shenqing was inherently conservative.

The loss of her first time had been a significant blow to her, and now, as she looked at Zhang Xiaodong, her eyes sparkled with intensity.

"I'm a professional with a strong work ethic. When I'm on the job, I ensure I earn my keep."

Zhang Xiaodong smiled, unfazed by the deliberate challenges. He understood the adage 'he who pays the piper calls the tune.' Aware that the Female Chairman held him in low regard, he was left to navigate the complexities of their professional relationship internally.

"I'll be attending a very important banquet in a few days, and I'll need a personal bodyguard to help maintain a presence. Be prepared, as there might come a time when I'll require your assistance."

Mu Shenqing straightened the documents in her hands before casting a glance at Zhang Xiaodong, who had resumed his tea drinking, a gesture that made her grit her teeth in frustration.

This man always seemed disinterested in his work, prompting Mu Shenqing to wonder if she needed to repeat herself to get him to take things seriously.

"Alright, could you give me some details in advance so I can prepare a strategy? I'm a bodyguard, but I often find it's better to solve problems with my mind rather than my fists."

Zhang Xiaodong shrugged, his expression growing a tad more solemn. Given their relationship, he wasn't quite sure he could trust this woman and suspected that the domineering Female Chairman might be plotting to use him as a pawn.

"The success of Mu's Group hinges on everyone playing their part. Just focus on your duties; the company's executives will handle the strategic decisions."

Mu Shenqing massaged her forehead, feeling the need to reassert her approach to work to better align with this man, who was always keen to offer his input.

"Understood, I'll stick to action."

Zhang Xiaodong smiled, holding back his comments.

Their exchanges were like a duel between masters, each maintaining a distance, neither willing to break the silence on their unspoken thoughts.

Zhang Xiaodong could sense Mu Shenqing's ongoing self-restraint and control, as if she were facing a personal challenge.

He didn't have a particularly high regard for this formidable woman, but he was gradually getting used to her.

"Excellent. Remember, knowing your role is paramount in the workplace. You may leave now. I've arranged an office for you. Unless I summon you, do not enter my room while I'm at the company."

Mu Shenqing's demeanor grew icy as she watched Zhang Xiaodong fiddle with his teacup, her irritation mounting.

No one in the company had ever dared to be so relaxed in her presence.

"But I do enjoy my tea."

Zhang Xiaodong shrugged helplessly, feeling a profound sense of injustice.

"It's obvious there's an office there. Let's head out now."

Mu Shenqing involuntarily clutched her forehead, overwhelmed by the sensation that her mind was on the verge of imploding. At last, someone at Mu's Group had the audacity to challenge the Female Chairman.