Chapter 03: A Fateful Encounter

That is a polite expression from the recruiting organization, often encountered. However, it is quite rare for someone to come for an interview just because meals are provided. As Geng Baolei watched Bao Xiaosan explain the situation so seriously yet excitedly, even while biting his lip, he could not hide his amusement.

There is no worst, only worse. Bao Xiaosan cheerfully asked while holding her phone: "I didn't intend to get hired, but I received a text message saying I was honored to be notified about something... This is the first time I've been honored with a meal, and I thought, after eating, I can still take the train at night... Here, there are girls and air conditioning, which is much more comfortable than being on the street"

Peking University? Your resume..." Tang Ying flipped through the resume, thinking she had made a mistake.

Indeed... how could I not remember you? Qiu Di was taken aback; with so many people encountered while delivering packages, it was likely that even the best memory could not retain them all

This is indeed true; at the forefront of a business investigation company shrouded in a layer of mystery is confidentiality. Not only is there a high level of secrecy maintained from outsiders, but the confidentiality regarding internal matters related to business operations is also exceptionally stringent.

"It's done, send them all away," Lü Tianzi said with a wave of her hand

On a scorching hot day, he was still dressed in a suit and tie. Upon introduction, he mentioned that he graduated from Northwest Agricultural University and his work experience was less than impressive, having only moved flower pots in a flower market. When asked about his special skills, he said he could arrange bonsai. In response to questions about his understanding of the business investigation industry, he admitted he was not very familiar with it but would strive to learn, his voice tinged with sorrow. He even shared a poignant love story, revealing that he had followed his girlfriend to Beijing for her graduate studies. Due to the unique circumstances of his agricultural major, he had already faced rejection in the job market multiple times.

It is not the first time I have been misunderstood like this," Geng Baolei said with a smile, "I really do know you. You are the delivery person. I work at the cooperative business hall in Huifang District, and you have delivered flyers and mobile phones to me.

"I went on a budget trip to Inner Mongolia and returned in April, but you had already left," said Qiu Di. Turning back, he prepared to introduce Geng Baolei, but unexpectedly, Geng Baolei was glaring at Bao Xiaosan with fiery eyes, as if he wished to devour him alive. Bao Xiaosan also recognized Geng Baolei and was so startled that he bit his finger. This reaction puzzled Qiu Di, who shook his finger and asked, "Oh? Why do you two look like you've had a past together?"

The voice sounds like a girl, and at first glance, it also looks like a girl. However, the attire is definitely that of a man. Qiu Di was taken aback and bluntly said: "Don't get too familiar; I don't have that kind of preference"

Next candidate... Huang Mingfei. Tang Ying swiftly cut through the confusion and dealt with another graduate in the field of bioengineering. In her view, this bookish individual was only fit for seeking a position at a small restaurant, likely in a subordinate role.

"Why do I find this woman so repulsive?" Qiu Di asked Geng Baolei in a low voice

"Sister Lü, but who is ultimately responsible for this? At the very least, there should be an interview form, right? What questions are being asked? What kind of people are being recruited? There is no clarity at all." Tang Ying was bewildered

The three recruiters were astonished, and half of the candidates in the room were stunned. At the back, Qiu Di and Geng Baolei, who knew the answer, lowered their heads and laughed

As soon as this richly meaningful name was mentioned, the entire audience erupted in laughter, and even the three hosts of the recruitment event couldn't help but smile

"There really has been." Bao Xiaosan said nervously

Qiu Di. Qiu Di shakes hands, meeting in hardship, with no animosity towards each other; this smile is undoubtedly sincere

... ...

Ah? Tang Ying was almost overwhelmed, seeing that Sister Lü's attitude did not seem to be joking. She asked in astonishment: "It can't be, right? I spent several thousand, ran around for two or three days, and gathered so much information about these people, and now you want to discard it all?"

"What does that have to do with anything?" Geng Baolei waved his hand in refusal

I am too ordinary, not as unique as you. You delivered customized flyers, stacking four layers with both arms and walked straight in, leaving the small boss in our business hall dumbfounded. Then he turned around and scolded us... Look at how that kid works. And then look at you all, this is really falling short of expectations... Geng Baolei recalled this amusing incident and shared it with Qiu Di. His intuition told him that this was an open-minded and straightforward man from the North, and his honest demeanor made one feel very warm and familiar at first sight

"Don't mention it, doing such exhausting work, with this kind of life, I can't even boast to others that my company has branches all over the country; I simply can't admit that I'm a delivery person." Qiu Di wiped his sweat and said self-deprecatingly

Indeed, this was completely unexpected for Tang Ying. Even if they were just cleaning, answering calls, or organizing documents, they could at least leave a lasting impression on the applicants. Instead, it feels as if they are merely toying with people.

The applause for the interview was thunderous, and Tang Ying's debut was quite impressive, directly comparing the other candidates to ugly ducklings. After she slightly bowed and took her seat again, she began: "Today, the interview time is very short, five minutes for each person, open, fair, and just, no one needs to avoid... Now we officially begin, the first candidate: Bao Xiaosan."

Qiu Di whispered something to Geng Baolei, causing Geng Baolei to squint his eyes in amusement. Looking over at Bao Xiaosan, who was grinning and showing off his two little canine teeth, it seemed he was the only one in the entire venue who was not nervous. In this situation, it would be difficult to feel angry with him.

Just now, when the two were lamenting their misfortunes, Qiu Di looked at Bao Xiaosan in astonishment and asked, "Well, San'er, you've become quite capable, have you? Going after the police? Being a drifter may be a necessity of life, but being a thug is entirely your own fault"

"You can't even read all the words on the delivery slip, what are you applying for?" Qiu Di scolded in a low voice, and even Geng Baolei was taken aback; it couldn't be that the candidates for the interview were this unqualified.

However, this time the result was the same. After finishing the statement, Tang Ying expressionlessly said to him: "I'm sorry, you are not suitable for this position, you may leave... Next, Hou Hailong."

It is estimated that Bao Xiaosan did not intend to actually give anything; his hand never even reached into his pocket. Qiu Di knew what kind of person he was and glared at him, asking: "If you are ready to leave, what are you hanging around here for?"

Next one

"What?" Tang Ying asked in surprise

I know you. "Geng Baolei moved two seats and sat next to the boy.

What happened?" Qiu Di asked, as Geng Baolei and Tushuqi pointed at this person, saying, "He is the one who disrupted our sales yesterday, causing me to spend an entire afternoon at the police station.

"San Er? Come here." Qiu Di recognized this person

Geng Baolei arrived the earliest and observed the situation most clearly. Among so many people, he did not find a single candidate from the recruiting units that he found appealing. They were either too overweight or lacked even the most basic image, and fundamentally, they had little experience, lacking even the most basic confidence in job seeking.

Oh, this is more like it. The mistress received the news and swaggered out, followed by a burst of laughter behind her

Oh, this is a private college. Young people, you should be more pragmatic; being ostentatious is not advisable. The only male recruit, Supervisor Li, who is in his forties, said in a measured tone

Tang Ying took a moment to calm her emotions and exchanged glances with Lu Tianzi. Initially, she felt a twinge of guilt, but now it had completely vanished. They were eager to use the most venomous and heartless words to drive everyone present away.

Young people are always so easy to approach. The two whispered a few words to each other, growing closer with each exchange. It turns out they both had just lost their jobs and were trying their luck. Upon seeing the high standards of the company, they didn't hold out much hope. It seems they were already discussing contingency plans. Qiu Di suggested that if things didn't work out, they could try their luck at other courier companies, as that industry has the lowest entry barriers. With piecework pay, if one can work, one can earn money.

... ...

Laughter erupted again, and Lv Tianzi was so angry that her face turned red, nearly toppling over from holding her breath. Supervisor Li realized he had encountered someone quite foolish, and he politely said: "If the journey is indeed long, the company is distributing buffet vouchers for lunch. However, for now, please wait outside."

"Yo, Qiu Di? Yeah, yeah." Bao Xiaosan laughed, bouncing to the last row, sitting next to Qiu Di, and affectionately asked, "Wow, it's been over half a year since I last saw you. Where have you been?"

Every day brings unforeseen events, such as this recruitment drive, where over 2,000 pieces of information were published, yet fewer than 30 individuals ultimately attended. They were all gathered in a large conference room, resembling Liu Laolao entering the Grand View Garden for the first time. The company's bright and clean office environment, uniquely designed office partitions, and the dazzling high-end computer screens visible through the windows left this group of candidates feeling awestruck

Oh, another person hurriedly entered, wearing a blue shirt and suit pants, with well-defined muscular arms exposed, a dark complexion, and a confident gait. He instantly attracted envious glances from a group of otaku. He walked straight to the last row and sat down, wiping the sweat from his brow

Early in the morning, she instructed the front desk to directly bring any applicants to the large conference room for seating. Still uneasy about today's arrangements, she waited for Sister Lv, who manages personnel at the company, to arrive. The two women whispered for quite a while, and Tang Ying understood that even Sister Lv was not clear about the details, only knowing that the company's financial supervisor, Li Zenghua, was also scheduled to participate today.

"The possibility is slim, as there is no specific targeting of that industry, nor is there a limitation on work experience, so it should not be the case." Lu Tianzi said with a smile, as the phone rang, confirming her judgment. She smiled and said, "Look, it's the *picture* book that has arrived."

Geng Baole was amused by this statement. A few people in the front row turned around to look. Bao Xiaosan's face turned red, and he explained: "I am also a victim. I was just looking for some odd jobs at the labor market in Chongwenmen when a strange guy asked me if I dared to fight. I thought it was just someone causing trouble, so of course I said yes. He took me and Pang Dou along, and who would have thought he was only looking for the two of us? Pang Dou didn't even dare to get involved... After it was all over, I found out that we had actually hit a police officer." He continued explaining: "I am also a victim. I was just looking for some odd jobs at the labor market in Chongwenmen when a strange guy asked me if I dared to fight. I thought it was just someone causing trouble, so of course I said yes. He took me and Pang Dou along, and who would have thought he was only looking for the two of us? Pang Dou didn't even dare to get involved... After it was all over, I found out that we had actually hit a police officer."

Moreover, it is clearly out of place. Among the twenty-seven or twenty-eight people, more than half are overweight, each with chubby cheeks and dazed eyes, leading one to speculate whether this is a result of long-term late nights. Occasionally, a few are dressed appropriately, yet their expressions appear shifty and lacking in confidence. Surprisingly, three females also attended; one is too fat, resembling a silly girl who stays at home. Another is too small, looking like a student. There is one who resembles a businesswoman, but when she opens her mouth, her crooked teeth immediately deter the male hormones of those attempting to sneak a glance at her. Occasionally, a few are dressed appropriately, yet their expressions appear shifty and lacking in confidence. Surprisingly, three females also attended; one is too fat, resembling a silly girl who stays at home. Another is too small, looking like a student. There is one who resembles a businesswoman, but when she opens her mouth, her crooked teeth immediately deter the male hormones of those attempting to sneak a glance at her.

A word, quite a sight to behold.

"Inaccurate, it should be like the things given when paying for phone bills, worthless items," commented Geng Baolei on Tang Ying.

Once again, there was a burst of laughter, and the opening was chaotic. Tang Ying said seriously: "Let us get straight to the point, the alma mater."

Laughter was completely silenced, oh my, this is indeed a prestigious institution for the exceptionally gifted, no wonder it stands out so distinctly. It instantly made the applicants holding diplomas from second- and third-tier colleges feel utterly embarrassed

As they were discussing, the last person hurriedly arrived. He was a tall and thin individual, wearing a checkered T-shirt, who rushed through the door and nearly tripped, causing some candidates to almost laugh out loud. Upon closer inspection of his appearance, he had a long face, a garlic bulb nose, and a small set of tiger teeth, exuding a strong anime vibe. Several otaku were momentarily stunned by his creative looks before they burst into laughter.

Next one

Even those in charge of personnel are unfamiliar, let alone Tang Ying, who manages legal affairs. He knows how business is conducted, but she has never understood how those nebulous investigative tasks are accomplished. This is also one of the trade secrets of the industry; those ubiquitous and all-seeing commercial investigators are indeed the company's cash cows

"Next, Sun Huanchao." As Lv Tianzi called out, a chubby boy from the front row stood up in response.

Qiu Di hurriedly concealed her panic and walked to the front desk

Geng Baolei smiled and extended his hand, saying: "It's the same for me. When I talk to others, I usually don't tell them that I sell mobile phones, as I work in a high-end communications-related industry... Nice to meet you, my name is Geng Baolei"

It was indeed a call from General Manager Xie. Sister Lü casually took notes. Although the arrangements were somewhat hesitant, the final decision was straightforward, resolved in just a few sentences. Sister Lü hung up the phone with a snap, and Tang Ying asked, "Is there a definite answer this time?"

It seems that this is not meant for recruitment, but rather to deliberately find fault and dismiss people. We came here for nothing, " Geng Baolei said softly, feeling a bit frustrated.

What? Is he a graduate of Peking University? Geng Baolei was taken aback; after all, that is the highest institution of learning in the country. It is utterly unreasonable for someone to have fallen to such a state.

Upon hearing this, Bao Xiaosan nodded solemnly and said, "Ah, understood. I was just about to leave. How about this, brother, I will give you three hundred yuan."

Next... Qiu Di!

The man, who had originally held his head high, suddenly appeared as if he had been struck by frost, shuffling out the door with great reluctance. He turned back several times, seemingly waiting for the interviewer to change their mind, but reality does not favor the hopeful; he was ignored. With each additional step he took, he eliminated one more competitor.

Next... Zhang Guoqing. Supervisor Li also sent someone, with decent conditions, not young anymore, almost thirty and still working in the computer market, he felt it was a pity.

Next... Wang Da. Lv Tianzi dealt with one in a minute, this child has a bit of a lisp and speaks unclearly

Indeed, the more formal the company, the higher the standards, and the likelihood of being hired may become smaller

Yubei University, abbreviated as Beida

I mean, there should be news by now. Generally, Mr. Xie only reveals everything at the last moment. " Lv Tianzi said with a smile, explaining, "However, even if he does reveal everything, you might not be able to guess his intentions. Not to mention anything else, but among the business investigators we hire each time, I have been with the company for almost six years, and I do not know a single one of them.

Another burst of laughter erupted, leaving Tang Ying at a loss for words. Lu Tianzi was furious; it was truly rare to encounter such absurdity. After asking a few more questions, she waved her hand and said: "Alright, no need for introductions. We are already aware of your situation. You may leave now."

In the blink of an eye, the interview date has arrived. However, with only a day or two for preparation, and for Tang Ying and her colleagues who have no prior recruitment experience, it truly feels a bit chaotic. In the past, recruitment was conducted online, with a lengthy screening process from selecting resumes to meeting candidates. Yet, for this peculiar recruitment, the interview is about to begin, and Tang Ying hasn't even received the interview notice.

At exactly 9:00, the door opened, and two women and one man walked into the conference room. The arrival of the recruiters prompted all the candidates present to sit up straight. A beautiful woman seated in the center put on her glasses, cleared her throat, surveyed the room, and introduced herself seriously: "I am Tang Ying, the legal counsel of Harman Business Investigation Company. This is Supervisor Lü Tianzi from our company, and this is Supervisor Li Zenghua. Today, we will be hosting this recruitment interview."

One by one, the speed of pulling out the radishes and throwing them away was astonishing, and it seemed that they were almost halfway done. Qiu Di and Geng Baolei exchanged glances, sensing that something was amiss, yet they could not pinpoint exactly what was wrong

Tang Ying shook her head and followed Lu Tianzi out. This matter was handled, leaving her feeling quite depressed

"Talent, truly top-notch talent," praised Geng Baolei

Qiu Di covered her mouth and smiled. At that moment, she heard Tang Ying calling out

Bao Xiaosan responded and stood in front of the three recruiters. He was quite oblivious to the situation, staring intently at Tang Ying. Originally, Tang Ying, who was maintaining a serious demeanor and posture, ended up blushing from being stared at.

"Correct, General Manager Xie has requested that you host this interview." Lu Tianzi smiled, gesturing with one hand as she handed the shorthand materials to Tang Ying. Tang Ying looked at them, and in an instant, a cloud of gloom appeared on her face. With a hint of reluctance, she asked, "Are we sending them off on the spot? It would be one thing to not keep anyone, but can't we at least leave a little room for sentiment?"

I am here to apply for the position, " said Bao Xiaosan with displeasure

Having compassion is a good thing, but in our line of work, sympathy is not a compliment. Get ready, as I and Supervisor Li will help you take on the tough role

Sister Lü, whose full name is Lü Tianzi, is a middle-aged woman. When she smiles, her round face indeed has a certain charm. She instead advised Tang Ying, saying: "Look how anxious you are. Our General Manager Xie is a slow-tempered person. He won't call for help until the fire reaches his eyebrows. From what I know about him, whatever he intends to do, others will never understand."

The guest was sent away, and it was not surprising that he was concerned about the mistress. However, he was preoccupied with other matters and eagerly asked, "Aren't we still being provided with meals?"

Are we going to recruit such investigators this time? Tang Ying asked curiously.

"It's not a wasted trip; the mistress said she would even provide meals." Qiu Di's attitude was relatively optimistic, and the two exchanged smiles. Geng Baolei quietly joked, asking, "What does that female examiner look like?"

"Like a wretch." Qiu Di observed yet another person being sent away in despair and remarked

"Since ancient times, talented individuals have often faced jealousy. San Er, you should be cautious about the upcoming challenges. It is truly rare to see someone like you, a Peking University graduate, still mingling on the streets" said Qiu Di.

Graduated from Peking University, majoring in Engineering Mechanics. "Bao Xiaosan Dao."

At this thought, Tang Ying felt that she had been overly anxious. She sat in Sister Lü's office waiting. As the time approached, some people had already arrived early. The closer it got to the appointed time, the more unsettled she became. Sister Lü kept looking at her with a smile. Just a minute before 9:00, she inexplicably said, "It should be about time; there should be news soon."

Supervisor Lv entered and directly asked, "Please introduce yourself."

He is just that foolish, don't bother arguing with him. Do you think a normal person would do something like this? He didn't even consider that finding someone like you would only cost a hundred yuan, yet he gave seven hundred. It definitely can't be anything good. Qiu Di scolded, directing his words at Geng Baolei. Geng Baolei chuckled, his anger dissipating significantly. At this moment, looking at Bao Xiaosan, who was clearly in a more desperate situation, having come to apply for a job, it was evident that he was worse off than Geng. With a sense of helplessness, he said, "Forget it, I have no grudge against you. Let's hurry and leave, the police are definitely going to catch you."

Bao Xiaosan sternly refuted: "Private institutions are also academies, and there are formal ones classified as Type 2B, which are much better than that."

My surname is Bao and my name is Xiaosan. This name is ambiguous, but when my father gave me this name, the term 'Bao Xiaosan' did not exist yet. I truly did not mean it. Bao Xiaosan explained, seemingly afraid of misunderstandings, but the more he explained, the louder the laughter became. He became annoyed and turned around, glaring as he said: 'What are you laughing at? This name represents the ideal of all men.'