Chapter 28: A Slap in the Face

Ouyang Yuzhuo did not expect Huo Beihan to answer that way. She wanted to say something more to lecture him, but another call came through on Huo Beihan’s phone.

After a slight frown, he spoke up. "I have another call coming in. Let’s leave it at that for now."

Huo Beihan hung up and immediately answered the call from Su Mian.

"Big Brother, I think I left a folder in the hotel. Do you remember seeing it? I think I need to go back for it."

It was only after arriving home that Su Mian realized the document folder she had taken from the company had been brought out with her when she left.

"I just got home myself," Huo Beihan replied. "I originally intended to bring it to you, but something came up here. If you’re in a rush, shall I send it over now?"

"Oh, I couldn't trouble you like that. Just give me the address, and I’ll come pick it up," Su Mian said while putting on her coat.

Huo Beihan smiled and sent her the address of his villa.

Half an hour later, Su Mian arrived at his villa. As soon as she stepped inside, she was struck by the decor and couldn't help but feel shocked. It was all shades of black, white, and gray—true to form for Huo Beihan.

"What’s wrong?" Huo Beihan asked, handing her a pair of slippers while glancing at her surprised expression.

"I just think this villa perfectly fits the stereotype of a cold, powerful CEO."

Huo Beihan chuckled and led her inside. "What would you like to drink?"

"Just plain water, please."

He turned to the water dispenser. Before Su Mian could even sit down on the sofa, his phone rang again. "My apologies, give me a moment."

He handed her the water before picking up the phone. He hesitated for a few seconds before answering.

"I’ve thought it over, and I decided I need to make things clear. After all, Mother wouldn't want to harm you, and you shouldn't keep avoiding this."

"What is it you want to say?"

Huo Beihan frowned slightly. On the other end of the line, a voice sighed in relief upon hearing his response.

"Whoever you’re seeing, bring them home sometime. I’m not forcing you to find someone of equal social standing, but considering your position..."

These were the same old platitudes, but the more he heard, the darker Huo Beihan’s expression became.

"There’s no need. Our relationship isn't very stable yet, so it’s not convenient to bring them home."

As he spoke, his gaze fell on Su Mian before shifting subtly toward the window.

From just this snippet of the conversation, Su Mian could guess who was on the other end, so she sat quietly to the side.

"If there’s nothing else, let’s leave it at that. Don't arrange any more blind dates."

It was a command, and Ouyang Yuzhuo found it difficult to argue, offering only a few polite words of concern before ending the call.

After hanging up, Huo Beihan turned back to find Su Mian looking at him with an amused expression. "Even though I was only acting as a shield for you today, what about the future, Big Brother?"

He noticed the playfulness in her eyes, and his demeanor softened considerably. "We’ll see when the time comes. I have no interest in these things, so I’ll just put it off as long as I can."

As their eyes met, Su Mian was reminded of that incredibly warm embrace from earlier. A silence fell over the room.

Soon, Su Mian snapped back to reality, stood up, and quickly asked, "Um... where is that folder? I should take it back now."

Huo Beihan walked over to the coffee table and handed her the document folder. "Is this the one? Take a look."

Su Mian checked it and nodded. "Yes, this project is quite important. I had intended to look it over today." She opened the folder right there in front of him to verify the contents.

Watching her earnestness, Huo Beihan’s thoughts drifted, and he suddenly asked, "How are you being treated at that company?"

She didn't know why he asked, but she answered candidly. "I think I’m very lucky to have been hired as an assistant. I didn't know much about this field, but Mr. Lin didn't mind."

Her eyes brightened at the mention of Lin Mu. "Mr. Lin not only teaches me carefully but has also explained a lot about venture capital to me. I’ve learned so much."

Su Mian continued talking, completely unaware that Huo Beihan’s face had darkened significantly.

When Su Mian had first applied to Lin Mu’s company, Lin Mu had contacted him immediately. It was only because he had given the nod that the other party decided to hire her; in terms of qualifications alone, Su Mian didn't quite meet the mark.

He knew Lin Mu well enough, but he hadn't expected Su Mian to become so close with him. He felt a pang of regret; had he known, he would have found a way to keep her by his side instead.

"What’s wrong, Big Brother?"

After checking her files, Su Mian noticed Huo Beihan’s grim expression and asked cautiously, "Did Mr. Lin say I didn't do something right?"

Huo Beihan composed himself, cleared his throat, and said, "No. Mr. Lin is quite busy, and I am also somewhat knowledgeable in this area. If there’s anything about investment projects you don't understand, you can come ask me."

"I know things that he might not," he added, fearing she might doubt him.

Su Mian felt quite puzzled. Logically, given Huo Beihan’s net worth, shouldn't he be even busier than Lin Mu?

However, she didn't refuse. After all, receiving guidance from Huo Beihan might lead to a deeper level of professional growth.

"Alright, I’ll come to you if I have any questions," Su Mian said, squinting and smiling at him.

It seemed that since they had eaten together, their relationship had grown much closer, and she no longer felt so intimidated by him.

Huo Beihan handed her a small booklet. "Let’s start with this proposal. Finish it by tomorrow noon and show it to me."

"Starting already?" Su Mian hadn't expected him to be so serious.

The next morning, she didn't dare delay. She raced against time to finish her other tasks and threw herself into the "homework" Huo Beihan had assigned.

When Lin Mu came in early and saw how focused she was, he walked over and tapped her desk. "I remember this is..."

Su Mian was so absorbed that his sudden arrival startled her. "Oh, Mr. Lin. This is for... Mr. Huo. He needs me to send it over by noon."

Hearing her change in address, Lin Mu wore a knowing expression. "That Beihan, really—trying to poach talent from me? What is he thinking?"

Su Mian didn't know what he was teasing about and looked at him blankly.

"Alright, I won't disturb you. Keep at it."

Lin Mu returned to his office and made a call. Clearing his throat, he said, "Huo Beihan, you really have no conscience. When I asked you to teach me economics back in the day, you told me I had talent and should study on my own. How is it that when it comes to Su Mian, you’re suddenly teaching her hands-on? Does the big man have time on his hands now?"

"Do you have a problem with that?"

Lin Mu curled his lip and let out a dry laugh. "I wouldn't dare. But be careful not to wear her out. This young lady has been busy since she arrived; she hasn't even left her chair."

"Is that something you need to worry about?" Huo Beihan was dissatisfied with Lin Mu’s overflowing concern.

"Hey, what’s that supposed to mean? She’s my employee—if I don't worry about her, who will?"

"Stay away from Su Mian and stop worrying about useless things."

The cold, hard warning came from the other side of the line.

Lin Mu rolled his eyes and waved his hand. "Fine, fine, fine. We’ll both stay away—you just make sure you stay close."