Chapter 05: A Startling Surprise

It truly is a surprise, not a boxed meal, not a buffet, but a VIP box, complete with reclining chairs, a tea area, and a restroom. The waiter refills the water, and Bao Xiaosan excitedly glances around.

"The internet search won't tell you why there is such a lavish lunch on the table," Qiu Di said with a smile.

Qiu Di smiled, and with that smile, Geng Baolei sensed something was amiss. He asked, "I say, Qiu Di, don't be so inscrutable, as if you know what's going on."

What does it mean? Geng Baolei is a bit confused

This time, it seems we have inadvertently succeeded in being selected

"Then why are you here for the interview if you want to leave?" Guan Qianjiao asked, puzzled.

Having spoken so clearly, Geng Baolei found himself with no further questions. He simply turned to Bao Xiaosan and said, "I am asking someone else, why are you interrupting?"

Sigh... After studying for over ten years, I only realized upon entering society that I am still utterly useless. Not even a small company is willing to hire someone like me, an outsider coming to Beijing. At most, they hire me temporarily, and then send me away afterward.

It seemed that everything was ready, and as they spoke, the dishes began to be served. The first dish was yellow wine chicken, which was quickly devoured, leaving a plate in disarray. Guan Qianjiao hadn't even made a move when Bao Xiaosan had already brought her two chicken legs. With such attentiveness, she felt a bit embarrassed. However, Qiu Di reassured her, saying it was fine and that she shouldn't feel burdened. Although San'er often did questionable things, he was not a bad person; he regarded her as a sister.

I am afraid that someone with ulterior motives might come to flirt. However, Bao Xiaosan is even more vigilant than a young girl. But upon seeing Geng Baolei's delicate and tender appearance, she instantly changed her tone and said to Guan Qianjiao: "Jiao, it seems like there is no problem; he can be your close friend."

Indeed, regardless of how luxurious and high-end the company appears, or how grandly the recruitment is presented, if there is nothing substantial offered to the employees, one should absolutely refrain from joining. Qiu Di remarked, as he shifted from theory back to reality, pointing to today's dining table: "But today is different. Look at Harman Business Company; being able to rent half a floor in Baolong Building indicates they have strength. I wonder if you noticed that their elevator threshold on the eighth floor is somewhat worn, which gives it an old appearance. Elevator maintenance occurs only once a year, and the fact that it is not spotless suggests that there are quite a number of visitors... Furthermore, those few individuals involved in recruitment are quite self-satisfied and impressive. Although they may have an unpleasant appearance, it indirectly indicates that they indeed possess the capital for pride."

The moment the person left, it caused quite a stir, a mix of tension and surprise, feeling quite intense. Fortunately, I reached out to them; otherwise, where would this grand feast have come from? Geng Baolei felt uneasy and smiled, saying it felt like a time travel experience. The distance from Baolong to Wanyuqiao is just a few kilometers, not too far from being miserable to being impressive. The two chatted for a bit, glancing at the silent Qiu Di and the young lady. Just as Geng Baolei was about to speak, Bao Xiaosan interjected: "Her name is Guan Qianjiao"

Geng Baolei could no longer contain himself and asked the hall manager, "Cousin, we are having a working meal, why such high standards?"

Then why? " Guan Qianjiao asked curiously

"After eating, just leave without a care. Who cares about him?" said Bao Xiaosan.

As a merchant, one must always seek a profit, even if it is just a few cents. Without profit, one would not rise early; how could one possibly host others without any gain? Therefore, I believe: we have made the cut. " Qiu Di said, unable to conceal his excitement about the unknown possibilities.

Upon hearing these words, everyone paused their chopsticks, all staring at Qiu Di, a hundred thousand questions ready to burst forth

This is what is called knowledge changing destiny. Qiu Di said, and Guan Qianjiao chuckled softly. Bao Xiaosan, feeling unconvinced, leaned in and asked: What about me? I haven't studied much.

Hehe, don't look at me with that kind of gaze. I have learned my lesson after suffering many losses. Ever since I arrived in the capital, I have been deceived in job hunting no less than five times. The worst experience was working for three months without receiving any salary, only for the company to go bankrupt... As for being scammed in renting, I have lost count of how many times I have been kicked out of shared accommodations. Therefore, my conclusion is to follow the money; the good and the bad are clear at a glance.

All three looked at Qiu Di. The outcome of the appearance of these two was not surprising, but what was unexpected was that even someone from the library could guess the result

The waiter held the menu, and upon hearing this, Xiao San became excited. ... He ordered several dishes including Huangjiu chicken, braised pork with preserved plums, dry-fried fish, and sea prawns ... ... While ordering, he smugly remarked, "Ah, it's great to eat for free; I don't even need to ask about the prices." If it weren't for Qiu Di snatching the menu away, San Er would probably have ordered a few more dishes casually, handing them to Geng Baolei. Geng Baolei casually selected a vegetarian dish and requested a nourishing soup, then folded the menu and returned it to Qiu Di.

Indeed, what is there to worry about? Isn't this a working meal?" said Bao Xiaosan.

Guan Qianjiao smiled faintly, and when she lowered her head, she noticed Qiu Di gazing at her intently. Oh, the focus of his gaze was on her hand holding the teacup. She instinctively withdrew her hand as if she had been electrocuted, and a flash of silver caught her eye on her wrist; it was a beautiful piece of jewelry.

"Aren't we taking the car tonight? Let's grab a meal here; it's much better, with air conditioning and good food, compared to living in the basement. It's like sleeping in a sauna every day." Bao Xiaosan, without any ulterior motives, revealed her true feelings.

It seems to make some sense. Geng Baolei was persuaded

One plate after another was served, devoured with the speed of a whirlwind. Gradually, the pace slowed down. Halfway through, Geng Baolei looked at Qiu Di, who was so calm, and asked, "Qiu Di, what do you think will happen once we finish eating?"

The hall led the four individuals upstairs. Qiu Di was pulled back, and upon turning around, he saw Geng Baolei signaling with his eyes. He smiled and gestured, indicating that everything was fine.

Qiu Di stared blankly at him, and he asked curiously, "What’s wrong?"

The discussion seemed to never resolve the issue, but soon the problem resolved itself. A knock on the door was heard, and a middle-aged man entered in response, followed by Tang Ying, whom the hiring party had met before. However, unlike the cold-faced Tang Ying they had seen earlier, she now wore a radiant smile, and the two entered with cheerful expressions.

"Enough, enough, that's about it." Qiu Di stopped him and directly returned the menu to the waiter

This search can be found on Baidu, and Harman Business has a respectable search ranking, along with a company introduction. Geng Baolei interjected, affirming that it is certainly a legitimate and capable company, www.hetushu.com.

While he was watching over Qianjiao, Qianjiao seemed a bit dazed and shocked, as if she couldn't quite accept the situation. Bao Xiaosan pursed her lips, loosened a belt buckle, and said with a grin, "Don't expect anything good from this. Finish eating and hurry up and leave. Don't let them have a chance to eat us and then sell us off to a black kiln."

Indeed, this is the specification ordered by Harman Business Company; they have been our long-time clients.

Indeed, they were quite dismissive upon arrival, sending everyone away without hesitation. The few remaining were just there to fill their stomachs; honestly, a single boxed meal would suffice. Was it really necessary to have such high standards? Guo Qianjiao said, seemingly unsettled.

What do you think?" Qiu Di did not answer and suddenly asked Guan Qianjiao.

Geng Baolei also felt uneasy all over, experiencing a tense sensation as if he were about to be sold. The little girl who had been following closely behind him became even more anxious, looking at Bao Xiaosan as if seeking reassurance. In an instant, Xiaosan's independent spirit surged, and she whispered, "Let's eat our fill first; then we will have the strength to run."

However, the others were not excited at all. Geng Baolei looked at everyone, forgetting to drink his soup, and pointed at each person, including himself, questioning: "No way, you deliver packages, I sell mobile phones, and there's also a third party acting as a thug, not to mention Qianjiao, this student sister, what can we do?"

Bao Xiaosan, infuriated, threw the spoon directly. Qiu Di, quick-witted and agile, caught it effortlessly. Guan Qianjiao offered a word of advice, which finally calmed the furious Xiaosan, who was glaring with anger. However, Qiu Di took it lightly and laughed, saying it was the last type of recruitment.

"Well, when I make my fortune, I'll invite you all to dine out every day," Bao Xiaosan said, chewing heartily and adding this remark.

Qiu Di vaguely grasped something, but did not appear surprised. Bao Xiaosan, who had experienced such treatment, suddenly grinned widely, astonished beyond measure. He was just someone who frequented street stalls and large dining halls, and had never encountered such a situation.

Sometimes, life is like playing the lottery; with a little carelessness, oh my, you might win a small prize, what a surprise

Absolutely impossible, it is now widely known that college students are lazy and incapable of work, thus not worth much. Black intermediaries sell individuals for at most a few hundred yuan, which is not even enough for today's meal. Geng Baolei's words made Guan Qianjiao laugh, and she lowered her head, her shoulders shaking with laughter. She may have previously found it hard to believe that she could interact with three boys while being single, but in reality, she discovered that the interactions were particularly easy.

Geng Baole was about to speak again when Bao Xiaosan interrupted, saying: "Gender: Female; Age: 24; Graduated from South China Normal University, has been in Beijing for two years, and just resigned from a publishing house"

"Are you leaving?" Guan Qianjiao spoke up, her voice curious and crisp.

From the moment I stepped into the Hakka private kitchen restaurant, the surprises began

What does it mean?" Geng Baolei was puzzled

Indeed, it is a bit awkward for you, Xiaosan, to pour water for Baolei. Speaking of humorous poetry, we are both struggling individuals in the capital, and our meeting is a matter of fate. I will be leaving tonight anyway, and once I arrive at the new place, I will give you a call. If you find it hard to get by, come find me.

I..." Guan Qianjiao seemed to be embarrassed as she said: "It should be fine, right? It can't be that we have to wash dishes to pay off our debt after just having a meal? Is it a meal on a voucher?"

Qiu Di remained silent, but the few interesting individuals encountered today became increasingly noteworthy.

Is that so? Then I will add two more. Bao Xiaosan feels that she has been wronged. Geng Baolei merely smiled and dismissed it.

This is precisely the part I cannot comprehend. Qiu Di smiled, began to drink soup, and after taking a couple of sips, addressed the crowd, who were still staring at each other in confusion: "However, the answer will soon be revealed. It is indeed true that we do not have to pay for this lunch, but it is also true that there is no such thing as a free lunch! The only explanation for this apparent contradiction is that we may possess some kind of value that someone has taken notice of."

Ah, let's go in the evening. " Bao Xiaosan smiled and sat down.

Qiu Di was amused to the point of throwing his head back in laughter, and the young lady also found it entertaining. Geng Baolei, his face flushed, mustered a great deal of determination but still refrained from giving Bao Xiaosan the middle finger. Qiu Di then spoke up, saying, "Alright, don't bully Baolei. Did you see? He can't even curse at anyone."

It seems unlikely, and then the young lady smiled

"What did you say today?" Qiu Di asked

Recruitment generally falls into a few categories. The first category consists of those preferred by large companies, graduates from prestigious institutions, preferably located in Beijing, with work experience. The more capable you are, the higher your qualifications, the higher your salary. As Qiao Di mentioned, those present here clearly do not fall into this category. He continued: The second category includes small private companies, where the conditions can be quite convoluted. They may offer decent terms, stating a three-month probation period, which might simply be due to a shortage of manpower, and they may only employ you for three months. Currently, companies are reluctant to sign contracts casually... Moreover, if there is even a slight downturn, they will lay off employees without any regard for personal relationships.

"It seems I actually know a thing or two. You haven't just started this game, have you? You still can't figure out these tricks in recruitment?" Qiu Di retorted.

There is another way, which is to take on odd jobs, working at one place and then another, always looking for something better. Resigning, applying for jobs, resigning again, applying again, jumping from one to another, yet unable to escape this cycle. We belong to this category, albeit in a slightly worse position.

He chewed slowly, and the soup was served. He ladled it out for everyone, temporarily forgetting his displeasure in the moment of joy. As for Bao Xiaosan, she was about to leave anyway and didn't pay attention at all. Geng Baolei, going with the flow, also did not wish to touch upon this topic that was hard to bring up. When Qiu Di handed the soup to Guan Qianjiao, who was sitting opposite him, the girl looked at him with her bright, curious eyes and asked, "So what does this count as?"

"What you have is ... ... " Qiu Di looked at him seriously and commented: "Changing one's appearance alters one's fate; originally, you were meant to be a noble, but now you resemble a monkey."

Not much, it's just that Geng Baolei's casual attitude towards ordering dishes really doesn't resemble that of a struggling individual in the high-end communications industry selling mobile phones. Qiu Di chuckled and said, "It's nothing, you're even more ruthless than San Er; a soup is more expensive than several dishes."

Upon seeing the meal voucher in Qiu Di's hand, she raised her delicate hand and said with utmost respect: "This way, please, to the VIP room on the second floor, Osmanthus Room"

It was somewhat amusing to see Guan Qianjiao like that. She took a light bite, and suddenly noticed Qiu Di stealing glances at her. In an instant, her expression changed; she held a chicken leg and took a big bite. Then she glanced at Qiu Di, who smiled back. In that smile, she felt a sense of discomfort, as if her privacy had been invaded, leaving her feeling tense and anxious