Chapter 66: Sanctimonious

The Shangjing Consortium established the Yunhai Chamber of Commerce, for which it acquired large-scale assets, encompassing a variety of businesses. Naturally, the position of General Manager of the Business Department became a linchpin within the entire Chamber. Yet, the upper management had remained silent on the appointment, something Chen Zhigang had been brooding over for quite some time.

Given his personal credentials and years of proven capability, he was more than qualified to assume the role. Now, with the upper management having reached a decision and the head of Human Resources coming in person to deliver the news, how could Chen Zhigang not care?

It was not only him; the employees nearby and the entire Su Rulan family were equally piqued, their curiosity evident as they all strained to listen.

But at that very moment, the head of Human Resources announced, “I’m sorry, but the position of General Manager of the Business Department will not be given to you, Chen Zhigang. Instead, it will be handled by President Ye.”

“This resolution was passed by the Board two days ago, but due to some personal matters President Ye had to attend to, the announcement was delayed until today.”

“Around noon, President Ye will arrive in person. Please make your preparations quickly.”

After hearing this, Chen Zhigang’s disappointment was palpable. He cursed inwardly, wondering who this sudden interloper was, and how the upper management could delay the appointment for two whole days just for the sake of someone’s personal affairs.

Suppressing his resentment, Chen Zhigang asked, “May I know President Ye’s full name?”

The HR head replied, “President Ye has instructed that, to facilitate random inspections, you are not to learn his identity in advance. I suggest you all avoid making any mistakes.”

With that, the head of HR left the department.

Moments later, a collective gasp swept through the office as everyone finally processed the news, and a wave of unprecedented tension descended.

“We haven’t even met the person and there’s already going to be an inspection!”

“Isn’t this a classic case of a new official making his presence felt?”

“We’d better take this seriously—no slacking off here!”

The employees, thoroughly alarmed, immediately buried themselves in their work.

Though Chen Zhigang’s face was stormy, he quickly composed himself, adjusted his demeanor, and patted Su Rulan on the shoulder. “It’s a pity this opportunity slipped by, but it doesn’t matter. As long as you agree, you can still be the Deputy General Secretary.”

“Yes, Rulan, hurry and accept it. Don’t hesitate. The Deputy General Secretary’s position is quite respectable,” Su Weimin urged, nodding repeatedly.

Gao Yulan chimed in, “As Zhigang just said, even if not for yourself, you should consider the child you’re carrying. If you let such a good opportunity slip by, it’ll just benefit someone else for nothing.”

Unable to withstand her parents’ relentless persuasion, Su Rulan finally agreed. She bowed to Chen Zhigang once more. “Zhigang, thank you for giving me this opportunity. I won’t let you down.”

The gloom on Chen Zhigang’s face lifted instantly, and he flashed a satisfied smile. A barely detectable gleam of pride flickered in his eyes. “There’s no need for such formality between us. If I don’t help you, who will? Come to my office and get familiar with the environment.”

With that, he led Su Rulan straight into the Deputy General’s office.

Upon entering, the office appeared especially spacious, offering a superb view. Chen Zhigang closed the door, arranged a work station for Su Rulan, then drew her to sit with him on the sofa.

“Rulan, seeing you like this pains me. But rest assured, with me here, you have nothing to worry about.”

Su Rulan edged away, putting a little distance between them. She managed a faint smile. “I know you’re helping me, but I’m already married. We ought to keep a professional distance. Work is work, and we should keep things clear.”

“What are you thinking? I’m married too, and I’d never cross that line. I just can’t stand by and watch. I’ve always acted aboveboard. Don’t take me for that kind of man,” Chen Zhigang said earnestly.

“That’s not what I meant. I’m just afraid others might misunderstand. After all, there are so many eyes in the Yunhai Chamber,” Su Rulan replied, drawing a deep breath. She reminded herself that Chen Zhigang was a family man, and perhaps she was simply overreacting. Maybe all his gestures truly lacked any ulterior motive.

“No one will misunderstand. Don’t overthink it. As you said, work is work. If anyone twists things, it’s only because their own hearts are filthy,” Chen Zhigang replied.

Su Rulan still felt a little uneasy, but for the sake of her job, she had no choice but to adapt. Gratefully, she said, “Whatever the case, I’ll remember your kindness. But right now, the pressing matter is to prepare for President Ye’s inspection—no telling when he’ll arrive.”

Chen Zhigang smiled and nodded. “Alright, I’ll leave that to you. Take the opportunity to familiarize yourself with the department’s structure as well.”

“I’ll get to it right away,” Su Rulan said, quickly getting up and hurrying out of the office.

Watching her retreating figure, Chen Zhigang crossed his arms, a glint of greed flashing through his eyes as he sneered inwardly, “Su Rulan, I refuse to believe you can ever escape the palm of my hand.”