Song Er's decision to move out of the Gu family was a carefully considered one.
On one hand, commuting to and from the Gu house was inconvenient now that she was working at Song Group. On the other hand, she had only moved in when she was young and unable to care for herself. Now, even with the title of Gu Cheng’s fiancée, it wasn't appropriate to keep living there.
Moreover, given the current situation, she didn't feel comfortable staying at the Gu house.
She decided to talk to Zhou Yuwei first, as Zhou Yuwei had always cared for her like a daughter.
Zhou Yuwei listened to her quietly. Although surprised, her expression was as gentle as ever. "Have you thought it through?"
Song Er nodded. "Yes, I have considered everything. I've also already spoken to Uncle (Li Chongming)."
"Have you thought about what to say to Great-Grandma?" Zhou Yuwei asked.
Song Er had also considered the Old Madam Gu, which was why she came to Zhou Yuwei for advice first. When asked, she replied, "I will go and explain to Great-Grandma myself. I will make sure she doesn't misunderstand."
Zhou Yuwei agreed with her approach but reminded her, "Try to be mindful of Great-Grandma's feelings. She will probably be upset for a while after you leave."
"I will," Song Er promised, smiling a little sheepishly. "Besides, I'm not leaving forever. I'll definitely come back to see you all when I have time."
Zhou Yuwei was pleased with her answer. She patted her hand and subtly changed the subject. "How are things with Cheng lately?"
Song Er was slightly taken aback. Thinking about it, she and Gu Cheng had indeed spoken very little recently. It wasn't intentional avoidance, but when they occasionally met, she just didn't know what to say.
She couldn't show anything in front of Zhou Yuwei. She could only say, "It's going well. I might have neglected him a little because I've been busy with performances and various school matters."
"I shouldn't pry too much into your relationship. Just handle things between yourselves. If it's Cheng's fault, you can tell me, and I'll talk to him."
"No, no," Song Er quickly denied. "Gu Cheng is very good."
Zhou Yuwei seemed to have only asked casually. Hearing Song Er's reply, she didn't press further and subtly changed the topic to something else.
Regarding the Old Madam Gu, Song Er went to explain in person. Taking the Old Madam's feelings into account, she specifically went to the kitchen and had Aunt Zhou teach her how to cook a bowl of soup, which she brought over as an apology.
The Old Madam initially insisted that Gu Cheng must have upset her, causing her to make this decision. Song Er patiently explained, little by little, laying out all her concerns until the misunderstanding was finally resolved.
Even so, the Old Madam was still reluctant to let her go. She held Song Er's hand and slowly recounted the events that had occurred since Song Er moved in. By the end, they both couldn't help but cry.
Song Er had been hesitating about how to tell Gu Cheng. She had been intentionally avoiding him recently, which he probably noticed. She only decided to find Gu Cheng after the arrangements at the Song family house were finalized.
"Gu Cheng, there's something I need to tell you."
"What is it?" Gu Cheng was surprised that Song Er would take the initiative to find him.
"Well, I'm moving to the Song family house in a few days."
"What?" Gu Ye, who was passing by, heard Song Er's words and was shocked. She quickly walked up to Song Er and blurted out, "Sister Er, do you not like my brother anymore?"
Song Er subconsciously looked at Gu Cheng, who was looking at her with confusion. Forcing herself to calm down, she explained, "I'm going to help out at Song Group, you know. Considering the potential for working overtime and everything, it's a bit far to live here, so I decided to move to the Song family house."
She spoke directly to Gu Cheng. Since finding out that Gu Mingjing might be involved in the accident, she hadn't fully processed how to face Gu Cheng, as he was the last person she wanted to hurt.
"Are you really not moving out because you don't like my brother?" Gu Ye looked suspiciously at both of them, trying to find some clue.
Song Er said helplessly, "Absolutely not."
Gu Ye was about to say more, but Gu Cheng grabbed her collar and pulled her aside. "Why are you talking so much, little kid? Do you have too little homework that you're not exhausted?"
Although she had a pile of questions, seeing Gu Cheng's annoyed expression, she wisely smiled at Song Er and left the space for them.
With Gu Ye gone, only the two of them remained in the hallway. The empty space was unnervingly quiet.
"I'm sorry, I—"
"It's okay, I understand."
Gu Cheng's usual gentle attitude made Song Er feel even more embarrassed. She repeated, emphasizing her reason, "I'm really moving out because I'm going to work at Song Group, and commuting from here is inconvenient."
"I know," Gu Cheng said, lovingly patting her head. Then he became serious and pulled a long face. "But you should have told me first about this, or maybe discussed it with me beforehand. Doing this makes me feel like you don't trust me and that I can't do anything for you."
Song Er bit her lip guiltily, unsure how to explain herself. In the end, she could only say, "I'm sorry."
Seeing her like this, Gu Cheng couldn't help but feel sorry for her, and the little bit of feigned distress he had put on vanished. He reached out and pinched her cheek. "Are you going to keep apologizing like this? Come on, smile. Your face is almost hitting the floor."
Song Er was amused and retorted discontentedly, "It's not that low." To prevent Gu Cheng from misunderstanding, she added, "I haven't been in a good state recently, so... I apologize."
Their eyes met, and they remained silent for a moment.
Gu Cheng spoke, "Xiao Er, no matter what it is, I can wait—wait until you've decided or until you're willing to tell me. So please, don't put any burden on yourself."
"Gu Cheng, I..." Song Er tried to promise him something, but in the end, she only said, "Thank you."
"I don't want you to stress yourself out. You should be happy and do what you love. Otherwise, I would be a failure," he said with a smile. Although he had many doubts, he decided to wait for her to speak.
Song Er was truly grateful for Gu Cheng's care. She wanted to apologize again, but seeing his face, she held it back.
Gu Cheng's words made Song Er feel increasingly guilty. She didn't deserve Gu Cheng's devotion. She was now afraid to think about what would become of their relationship in the future.
Gu Ye didn't want Song Er to move out at all, but the adults all told her to respect Song Er's decision. After going through the motions, she finally pinned her hopes on Gu Luxing.
However, Gu Luxing was so busy that she couldn't even see him. Gu Ye finally managed to catch him just before Song Er moved out.
"Uncle, do you know that Sister Er is moving out of our house?" Gu Ye stood in front of Gu Luxing, distressed.
Gu Luxing had already been informed of this by Han Xun. His lack of reaction made Gu Ye believe he was still in the dark.
Even upon hearing the news, Gu Luxing showed no change, simply giving a faint, "Oh." He then took a step to the side, passing Gu Ye on his way upstairs.
"Aren't you going to try and persuade her?" Gu Ye chased after him, unwilling to give up.
But until the end, Gu Luxing remained completely indifferent. A single "Oh" was all he offered, making his attitude clear.
It wasn't that he didn't want to interfere, but he knew too well that even if he tried, Song Er would absolutely not change her mind.
Song Er had said he had no right to do anything for her. Indeed, as things stood, she was still Gu Cheng's agreed-upon fiancée, and he was merely her fiancé's uncle.
Moreover, there was the Gu family's involvement in the harm done to the Song family. All these factors were pushing them further apart.
Not wanting to make things harder for Song Er, he decided not to interfere in this matter at all.
To stop himself from thinking about Song Er, Gu Luxing randomly picked up a book from the shelf. But when Shu Le came to find him, the book was still on the first page.
"Mom?" Seeing Shu Le enter, Gu Luxing quickly closed the book, stood up, and followed her to the sofa.
Shu Le patted the space beside her. "Sit down. I came to talk to you for a bit." Her usual stern tone made it difficult to guess her intention.
Gu Luxing poured Shu Le a glass of water before sitting down next to her.
Shu Le didn't beat around the bush and went straight to the point. "A-Xing, I know you have feelings for Xiao Er, but you must be clear that she is betrothed to Gu Cheng. Don't make things difficult for your father and grandmother."
"I apologize for causing you worry," Gu Luxing said, neither servile nor overbearing.
Shu Le's tone softened slightly. "I'm not here to criticize you. I just want you to know that if you don't handle this properly, you could hurt both Gu Cheng and your father."
"I know," Gu Luxing replied. "I will handle it."
Since he said that, Shu Le didn't press further and subtly asked about Gu Luxing's recent activities. "Have you been working overtime lately?"
"Yes, the company has been busy recently," Gu Luxing replied, not mentioning that it was because he had accelerated certain actions.
Shu Le picked up the glass of water on the table, lightly tapping the side of the glass with her finger, seemingly unconsciously. "I don't know what your father is having you do, but I hope you can see people and matters clearly. Don't let certain things blind you and affect your judgment."
Gu Luxing sincerely accepted. "Thank you."
Shu Le finally revealed a faint smile. She didn't bother Gu Luxing further. After finishing the water, she found an excuse to leave.
Gu Luxing wasn't sure how much his mother knew—was it his feelings for Song Er, some of the past between them, or the fact that he never intended to let go of Song Er?
However, one fact remained: his relationship with Song Er was not simply a matter between the two of them. He had to consider the feelings of everyone around them and manage everything beforehand.
At the very least, he couldn't let Song Er bear too much of the consequences in this matter.
x
The day Song Er moved out, Xuchuan, which had been under a continuous gloomy rain for over half a month, finally saw the long-awaited sunshine.
There wasn't much to move, just a few simple clothes, some books, and a few daily necessities.
Li Chongming specifically took time off to pick her up. He chatted with the Gu family, mainly to thank them for their care over the years.
Shu Le hadn't planned to come out, but since he was a guest, she couldn't overlook basic courtesy. She came down, brewed a pot of tea for the two of them, and instructed Aunt Zhou to prepare some fruit. However, she didn't participate in any of the conversations.
When they left, everyone came out to see Song Er off. Li Chongming and Shu Le lagged behind.
Li Chongming said to her, "Thank you for these past few years."
"The person you should thank is Yuwei," Shu Le said, quickening her pace to catch up with the Gu family.
No one noticed their conversation. Song Er was saying goodbye to the Old Madam Gu. Gu Liangping had returned to his room, Gu Cheng was carrying Song Er's luggage, and Zhou Yuwei was supporting the Old Madam.
"Uncle, do you know Mrs. Gu?" Song Er suddenly asked in the car on the way back.
Li Chongming was slightly surprised. He seemed to recall some past events, smiling as he sighed, "It's been many years."
Song Er was surprised. She had lived in the Gu house for so long, yet she had never heard anyone mention that they knew each other, nor had she seen him interact much with Shu Le. If she hadn't unintentionally seen the two of them talking as she left, she would never have guessed they knew each other.
She didn't pry further, took out her headphones from her bag and put them on, and turned to look out the window.
The Gu house was gradually receding from her sight. She had lived there for so long, and she had never imagined a day when she would move out. Although she had told the Gu family that she would return when she had time, she knew that the possibility of returning was almost nonexistent.
Thinking of this, Song Er felt a suffocating tightness in her chest. She had spent a wonderful time here, experienced a deep, unforgettable love, and now, she was personally letting it go.
Su Xie was the last person to know about her plan to go to Song Group. She used the excuse of inviting him to dinner to tell him face-to-face. It wasn't that she deliberately saved him for last, but she knew that if she had discussed it with him beforehand, Su Xie definitely wouldn't have let her go.
Currently, she was busy with her studies, practicing for performances, and even preparing for overseas training for next year's competition. She had absolutely no free time, so going to Song Group would only add to her suffering.
Sure enough, as soon as she finished speaking, Su Xie frowned and pulled a long face. "Why do you suddenly want to go to Song Group? Do you have time for such trivial matters?"
Song Er guiltily avoided his gaze. "Don't look at me like that. I also hope to find out about what happened that year more quickly. Since the matter involves both companies, I thought Song Group might have some evidence left behind."
Since the matter was already decided, Su Xie didn't press further. He unhappily changed the subject. "There might be two more performances at the end of the year, with a very short interval between them, both after the break. You shouldn't be too pressed for time."
"That's fine," Song Er accepted. She then suddenly reacted and asked in surprise, "Is the final evaluation coming up soon?"
As soon as Song Er mentioned it, Su Xie's face, which had just softened, turned stern again. He reprimanded her severely, "What are you doing all day? You even forgot about the final exams! Are you even focusing on your studies? What are you thinking about all the time?"
Song Er made a face at him in disdain. "That's too much! Go check the monitoring in the dance studio. My footage alone could make a documentary, one without any length restrictions."
Although she didn't accept Su Xie's criticism, he had indeed reminded her of one thing—finals were approaching.
This would only make her time more constrained. She hadn't reported to Song Group yet and didn't know what to expect, but regardless, as a sudden addition to Song Group, she would only face more questions and criticism, and it certainly wouldn't be easy.
Song Er had anticipated this, but what surprised her even more was that she wasn't just a sudden addition; she was also immediately assigned to work under Director Xin, a long-time company veteran, to manage the entertainment division, including investment in films and TV shows, organizing performances, and managing signed artists' resources.
Song Group started by publishing magazines. By the time her father took over, it already involved artist management, film and TV production, and related segment extensions. After Li Chongming took over, in addition to film and entertainment, Song Group also began to venture into catering, construction, and electronics, and the progress was said to be quite good.
Song Er's position seemed like a mere assistant, but being able to work under Director Xin was a dream for many. However, almost everyone at Song Group knew that Director Xin and Li Chongming were always at odds. No one knew why Li Chongming made this arrangement.
She had considered asking Li Chongming to change her to a more entry-level position, but after some thought, she decided not to bother him.
Director Xin also seemed unhappy with the arrangement. As soon as she arrived, he assigned her to independently handle a project the company had recently considered abandoning. It appeared to be a way for her to ease into the job, and whether the project could be restarted didn't matter. In reality, it was just a way to push her away and hopefully make her give up.
While she hadn't planned to achieve anything at Song Group, she didn't want to be looked down upon either. However, she also knew that this project had been shelved for a long time, and making it valuable enough to restart was practically a fantasy.
Considering that she was still attending classes, Director Xin didn't give her too many demands, telling her to contact the relevant person in charge if she had any questions. However, for Song Er, who had just joined the company and knew almost nothing about it, this was still very challenging, and working overtime became unavoidable.
Fortunately, with finals approaching, the school courses weren't as demanding. The professional exams weren't difficult for Song Er, but the cultural courses, with all the memorization required, still gave her a headache.
The next time she saw Gu Cheng was a week later. Their departments were not close, and since she moved out of the Gu house, it was extremely difficult to run into each other.
As soon as she finished class, she saw Gu Cheng standing at the classroom door. It wasn't the first time, and everyone tacitly said goodbye to Song Er and left in groups.
"Why are you here?" Song Er was clearly surprised, and more so, a little embarrassed.
Gu Cheng deliberately misinterpreted her meaning. "What, are you planning to cut off all contact since you moved out?"
Knowing Gu Cheng was teasing her, Song Er quickly explained, "No, I just didn't expect you to suddenly come looking for me. Is something wrong?"
"I'm not as cold-hearted as you," Gu Cheng said, taking the bag off Song Er's shoulder. "If you really need me to have an excuse to come, it's because Gu Ye misses you."
Song Er chuckled and bluntly exposed him. "If she misses me, why didn't she come herself? Tell her that's not sincere at all."
The two chatted and laughed all the way to the canteen. The West Canteen was one of the most famous canteens in Xuda, and the food was a major selling point for the university's recruitment. Even students from other universities would come to try it.
They took a while to finally find a seat. After moving out, she hadn't come here often. If she didn't have classes in the afternoon, she would usually go straight back to the Gu house. If she had classes, Gu Cheng would usually take her out of school because he knew she didn't like crowded environments.
"I remember a few years ago, it wasn't this lively here," Song Er said.
Gu Cheng looked around and sighed helplessly. "If it were like this, I doubt Uncle would bring us here."
She almost forgot. The first time she came to the West Canteen was because of Gu Luxing.
That time, she was in Xuda for a competition. Afterward, Gu Luxing, finding it troublesome, brought them directly here, which became her first impression of Xuda.
Song Er didn't let herself continue reminiscing and asked, "Did you really come all the way to the School of Art just to tell me that Gu Ye misses me?"
"Maybe I miss you," Gu Cheng suddenly looked up at Song Er seriously.
Song Er was stunned for a moment. After a while, she said, "Gu Cheng, when did you learn to be so mischievous?"
It was another evasive answer. She hadn't noticed it before, but now she felt it was a little deliberate. Song Er didn't know what was wrong with her, and she was even starting to dislike this side of herself.
Gu Cheng's expression made it hard to tell if he noticed anything. He stopped the casual talk and got straight to the point. "Finals are coming up. You probably don't have much time to study, do you?"
Hearing this, Song Er naturally understood Gu Cheng's intention. "Yeah, I'm planning to ask someone to borrow the key study points for the exam these days."
"I might not be able to help you with other things, but I can with those general education courses."
This was why Gu Cheng had specifically come to the School of Art. He knew about Song Er's academic performance. Although they weren't in the same class before, he had seen her test papers.
This suggestion should have made Song Er cheer, but now, her heart instinctively felt a little resistant. Looking into Gu Cheng's eyes, she couldn't help but ask, "What about your own revision?"
"Don't you trust me?"
Song Er quickly denied, "Absolutely not." Without waiting for him to speak again, she immediately smiled and thanked him. "Thank you."
Su Xie's investigation progress had slowed down since he found the last batch of information, but he promised to inform Song Er immediately if there was any new development.
They met at a dessert shop. Su Xie must have come straight from school. Since he didn't bring an umbrella, his hair and jacket were covered in rain.
He pulled a stack of papers from his folder, placed them in front of Song Er, and said frankly, "I found out that Gu Group's collaboration with Song Group that year indirectly caused several small companies to face bankruptcy. Song Group acquired one of them, but all the others were acquired by Gu Group. The person in charge of this collaboration, both initially and finally, was Li Chongming."
Song Er looked at the evidence on the table. Each piece heavily impacted her heart. Although she had already suspected it, she still couldn't truly believe that Li Chongming was also involved.
"My uncle... is he really..." She tried her best to stop her hands from trembling, but she couldn't.
"Initially, the project was handled by Li Chongming. Then your father personally took over. After Song Group unilaterally withdrew, Gu Mingjing approached Li Chongming, hoping he could interfere with Song Group to make the project proceed normally. Whether this is related to your parents' accident needs further verification. You might find out some inside information by going to Song Group."
Song Er understood what Su Xie meant. This was precisely why she decided to go to Song Group—to find out the reason why her father so adamantly decided to withdraw, and why Gu Group would disregard their past friendship and harm them.
As for Li Chongming, she also wanted to know the extent of his involvement.
Su Xie noticed her change and asked with concern, "Are you alright?"
"I'm fine." Song Er forced a smile. She waved to the waiter, took the menu, and recited the name of almost every dessert in the shop. When they were finally brought over, they filled the entire table.
Su Xie tried to stop her midway, but it was clearly useless. He frowned at the table full of desserts. "Your stomach won't be able to handle this."
Song Er was carefree. "I know. Just let me eat."
He had only seen Song Er like this once before. To keep her figure, she rarely ate sweets. But just before she returned from the UK, she had come to see him, ordered a table full of desserts just like this, and ate them all by herself.
In the end, she couldn't take it and almost fainted from the stomach pain.
Su Xie finally didn't stop her. He waited quietly by the side, watching her calmly finish the entire table of desserts. Then, he firmly took her to the hospital.
On the weekend, Song Er temporarily put aside her company matters and arranged to study with Gu Cheng at the university library.
The sycamore leaves on both sides of the road to the library had all fallen, leaving only bare branches, which looked like they were covered in a thin veil in the thin mist of the morning.
As Song Er walked, she felt that the world was full of persistent dampness. When she reached the library, she subconsciously stomped her feet before quickly slipping inside.
Even in such weather, Xuda's library was not deserted. It was so packed that there weren't any empty seats. Gu Cheng had already told her the exact location, but he still waved at her after she pushed the door open and entered.
He had already prepared the key study points for Song Er. Compared to the ones the professor had highlighted, this one was clearly simpler, clearer, and easier to memorize with a good structure.
"The key points for the exam are basically these few things every year. If you're not aiming for a high score, memorizing these is enough," Gu Cheng explained. "Ask me if there's anything you don't understand."
"Thank you."
Song Er took it, opened it, and started memorizing immediately without wasting a moment. Seeing that she was busy, Gu Cheng didn't remain idle and continued the problem he hadn't finished calculating yet.
After that, the two of them didn't interact much. It was mostly about the key points Gu Cheng had compiled. Sometimes, when his explanation was too brief and Song Er didn't quite understand, she would ask a question. Their movements were light, and they were in perfect sync.
Song Er sometimes wondered if she hadn't unexpectedly fallen for Gu Luxing, she and Gu Cheng would probably have a much smoother path. She would naturally accept all the arrangements made by the elders, eventually be with him, and live out her life because he had always protected her wholeheartedly, because he was warm and bright, and because he was enough to evoke endless gratitude in her throughout the long years.
The day passed quickly. It felt like Song Er had only just finished memorizing some knowledge points and done a few exercises.
When she saw Gu Luxing's car at the library entrance, Song Er was very confused. Before she could ask Gu Cheng what was going on, Gu Luxing was already out of the car. His tone was as cold as ever. "I happened to have something nearby. I heard you two were here, so I stopped by."
Song Er subconsciously looked at Gu Cheng, thinking he had mentioned it, but he also seemed unaware.
Gu Luxing spoke again. "Let's go. I'll take you back."
Although she wanted to refuse, given the current situation, Song Er got into the car with Gu Cheng.
In the car, Gu Cheng asked with some curiosity, "Uncle, why did you suddenly come to the university today?"
"To see Professor Zheng," Gu Luxing replied without changing his expression. He wasn't lying. He had indeed come to visit his former professor, but that wasn't the sole reason.
Before leaving home this morning, he unintentionally overheard a conversation between Zhou Yuwei and Aunt Zhou, mentioning that Gu Cheng was going to the university to see Song Er today.
Afterward, he couldn't concentrate on anything he did. He hadn't found an excuse to see her these past few days, nor had he tried to contact her. Yet, hearing that she and Gu Cheng were together, and perhaps even becoming closer, still made him anxious. This was unlike him.
Finally, he used the pretense of visiting his professor to come to Xuda and even waited for several hours at the library entrance so as not to miss them. But when he saw them, he had to restrain all his emotions.
Seeing that Gu Luxing didn't want to talk much, Gu Cheng didn't press further. For a while, the car was quiet, only the melody of the piano resonating, until Gu Luxing took the initiative to speak. "Are you adapting to the company?"
The question didn't directly address the subject, but everyone knew he was asking Song Er.
"It's okay," Song Er said. She didn't want to elaborate but still answered patiently. "Working as an assistant under Director Xin, although there are many things I don't understand, it's not too difficult."
"Director Xin? The Director Xin of the Entertainment Department?"
"Yes."
Gu Luxing paused, glanced at Song Er's face in the rearview mirror, and said casually, "If it's convenient, you can ask me if there's anything you really don't know."
Gu Cheng listened to their conversation, feeling that something was strange, yet he couldn't pinpoint it. He just felt a little uncomfortable. "Uncle, you're too biased! When I first went to Gu Group, you threw a pile of tasks at me and left me to fend for myself."
"Your father specifically told me not to help you."
Gu Cheng realized he had put his foot in his mouth and didn't continue the conversation. After that, no one initiated a topic until they parted ways.
Song Er was now living alone at the Song family house, not far from Song Group. Commuting was very convenient. When she got out of the car, she was in such a hurry that she almost forgot the key study points Gu Cheng had given her.
For some reason, she was never able to maintain her composure around Gu Luxing, especially when Gu Cheng was also present.
Perhaps she should talk to someone. After much thought, she just put on her headphones and listened to music for a while, then ordered takeout.
Song Er didn't expect to see him again so soon.
On Monday evening, her colleagues had all left work, and she was the only one remaining in the office. A pile of documents lay on her desk. Those that belonged to her and those that didn't had all become her tasks.
"Why are you here?" Hearing a knock on the door, Song Er stood up nervously, staring at the man in front of her, full of surprise.
Gu Luxing walked in, found an empty spot on the table, and put down the lunch box in his hand. "Have you eaten dinner?"
The usual greeting made Song Er feel like a child caught red-handed by an adult. She quickly explained, "I... I was just about to order takeout."
Gu Luxing didn't comment. He opened the lunch box while saying, "Eat. I'll see where I can help you."
"No need," Song Er instinctively reached out to stop him. "I can manage myself. You don't have to bother."
Gu Luxing didn't speak. He just looked at her with burning intensity. His expression conveyed everything: firm, resolute, and allowing no refusal.
In the end, Song Er conceded. She knew Gu Luxing too well. Since he had personally come to the company, he was determined to get his way in his next decision.
"Why are you always like this?"
Always effortlessly breaking down all her defenses, always knowing the way she couldn't refuse, and always stubbornly refusing her the right to back down.
Gu Luxing didn't answer and directly picked up a document to read. Those were documents she had obtained from the previous project manager and other relevant personnel. Understanding these was essential for restarting the project.
Logically speaking, these documents were considered important company files. With anyone else, Song Er would definitely not allow them to casually look through them, but with Gu Luxing, she had never even considered that possibility.
She tried so hard to escape, so hard to deny, but she had to admit that even now, knowing that the past incident was closely related to the Gu family, she still couldn't include Gu Luxing in that blame.
"Eat first, then tell me your thoughts," Gu Luxing said, having keenly noticed the movement on her side, even though he was seriously reading the document.
Song Er quickly tidied up the table, took the report, and began to analyze it piece by piece. "The reason this project was shelved is because the company has reduced its investment in the film and television sector. Projects like this, without top-tier star power or a major IP, and with an unoriginal genre, don't have any competitive edge in the current market. So, because the company lacks funding and can't find outside investors, they had no choice but to give up. Song Group eliminates several projects like this every month."
"So, based on what you're saying, it has no investment value at all and should be discarded as previously planned."
Song Er shook her head stubbornly. "No. This is the first task Director Xin gave me. If I give up now, it will tell everyone that I'm incompetent."
"Then what are you planning to do now?"
"I'm currently looking into all the related issues of the project. I won't pursue the marketing methods currently used in the market. I'm trying to find a new starting point and re-package the entire project to attract investors' attention."
"That's very bold. But you have to understand that the current market has no shortage of any type of work. If you insist on seeking common ground, relying on packaging, production, and a team to increase its market competitiveness, it's certainly better to change your approach and find a new path."
"So I'm considering using newcomers extensively to reduce related costs, without leveraging the existing market star power, which could also achieve the optimal value for the entire product."
Gu Luxing didn't question her. He just explained, "As a well-known entertainment company, Song Group has a lot of output in artists, advertising, and fashion, besides its annual investment in film and television. However, in recent years, Li Chongming has been determined to expand the business empire, slowly venturing into various mainstream industries. It's natural that the entertainment sector is not as prioritized as before."
"I'm aware of that. Uncle has shifted his focus to other areas for a long time," Song Er explained.
Gu Luxing took out another document. "However, the film and television sector, including its extended products, is still everyone's first impression of Song Group. It might not be a bad idea to make some bolder attempts."
"But..." Song Er hesitated. "But I just joined Song Group. If I make such a big decision suddenly, I doubt anyone will listen."
Gu Luxing, of course, knew this, but he pointed to the stack of papers on the table. "Isn't this an opportunity? You can extensively use newcomers for this project and define it as Song Group's first platform for future star-making. It's convenient since you didn't like the actor we contacted beforehand."
Song Er lowered her head guiltily under Gu Luxing's gaze, not saying anything, twisting her fingers in her clothes, opening and closing her hand.
She had no direct dealings with that popular celebrity. If there was a connection, it was probably the rumors that the celebrity and Gu Luxing had been involved for quite some time.
He only needed to glance at the documents to clearly discern the truth from her attempted justifications. The seemingly unrelated pre-conversation was only to make the following statement more impactful.
Gu Luxing curved his lips in a half-smile, saying lazily but earnestly, "Xiao Er, I told you before that personal emotions must be set aside when dealing with certain matters."
So, was that why he disregarded all her feelings, ignored her distress, and let her overthink everything back then?
Song Er ended up not asking anything. Being exposed like this was not a pleasant feeling, especially when the person was Gu Luxing.
"That actor has no merit in professional skills, besides relying on self-promotion to generate buzz," Song Er said, trying to stay composed, stating her judgment in a serious manner, even though in Gu Luxing's eyes, it was mere sophistry.
As expected, Gu Luxing just chuckled after hearing her, then sighed in a teasing tone, "You really haven't changed at all."
Haven't changed at all?
Song Er forced a bitter smile. He was right. Even after so much time, she still hadn't learned to speak indirectly in front of him.
When Song Er first moved into the Gu house, her first monthly exam results were over a hundred points lower than Gu Cheng, who was ranked among the top students in their grade. To her, it was expected, but the Old Madam Gu, who always emphasized education, didn't agree.
After seeing Song Er's report card, the Old Madam discussed it with Zhou Yuwei, wanting to find her a tutor, and also asked for her opinion.
"Xiao Er, Great-Grandma knows you love dancing, so it's understandable if you neglect other areas. Your Aunt Zhou and I discussed it, and we still hope you can balance everything. We'd like to hire a tutor for you to help you catch up on your studies during after-school hours."
Song Er wasn't good at refusing people, especially when the Old Madam looked so concerned and troubled, making it impossible for her to decline.
"I have ballet lessons every weekend, and I don't think I have any other free time. I'll try to be more attentive in class and aim for improvement next time," Song Er politely declined. She wasn't good at socializing, or more importantly, at that time, she didn't want too many people to know she was living in the Gu house.
The Old Madam had considered this. After hearing her, she kindly persuaded, "We have also considered the time issue. It definitely won't interfere with your dance lessons. We just want to hear your preference. If you agree, your Aunt Zhou will arrange it for you."
"I..." Song Er couldn't find another excuse right away. The Gu family was very good to her, but accepting all that kindness always felt like a burden.
Gu Luxing's appearance was perfectly timed. Just as she was in a difficult position, perhaps because of their newly established attic friendship, when she saw him, Song Er almost blurted out, "Could I have Uncle help me tutor?"
This was the first time Song Er had called Gu Luxing that since moving into the Gu house, and she hadn't expected it to be for this occasion. Not only the Old Madam, but even Gu Luxing, who was just passing by, looked over, full of confusion.
The Old Madam looked at Gu Luxing, then at Song Er. Her gentle demeanor turned slightly serious. "Why do you want A-Xing to tutor you?"
Once the words were spoken, there was no chance for regret, especially with another pair of eyes watching her. Song Er nervously gripped the corner of her shirt, but her expression instantly became composed. "Compared to a tutor, if it's Uncle, I might feel more comfortable interacting with him, and learning would be easier."
The Old Madam was silent for a moment, as if contemplating something. Finally, she asked Gu Luxing with a cool expression, "Since that's the case, A-Xing, I want to hear your answer."
At that time, Song Er didn't know about the slightly tense relationship between the Old Madam and Gu Luxing. But when her eyes met his, she was so nervous that she held her breath, her eyes filled with deep, sincere anticipation. The brief moment of waiting for Gu Luxing to speak felt incredibly agonizing.
Even though she had mostly resigned herself to the fact that Gu Luxing would refuse, she still held a glimmer of hope that he might agree.
The moment Gu Luxing spoke, Song Er felt like her heart was about to jump out of her chest. Then, she heard him say, "I have no objection."
At that moment, Song Er felt that all was silent, only Gu Luxing's words echoing in her ears.
"Since that's the case, from today on, A-Xing will be responsible for Xiao Er's grades," the Old Madam said, a flash of surprise crossing her face as she heard his answer, but she still confirmed the arrangement.
Song Er didn't react immediately. It wasn't until that evening when Gu Luxing called her to his study that she realized how poor her excuse had been.
"If I hadn't agreed, I'd like to know what other excuse you would have found."
"Huh?" Song Er was startled.
Gu Luxing smiled, his tone unusually gentle. "You weren't resisting tutoring, nor a stranger as a teacher. You just didn't know how to accept the Gu family's thoughtful arrangement, right?"
Song Er hadn't expected Gu Luxing to figure it out, nor for him to say it so directly. She tried her best to maintain her composure. "I just thought if it were you, even if my grades didn't improve much, there wouldn't be too much pressure."
Gu Luxing seemed to have anticipated her answer. A smile appeared on his face, an expression that was hard to decipher. He didn't dwell on the matter and directly opened her monthly test paper to start teaching.
From then on, for a long time until her sixteenth birthday, Gu Luxing became an essential part of her life. Going to his study after dinner became a fixed routine.
He would patiently and slowly teach her starting from the basics, finding the simplest and most suitable methods to explain knowledge points, and subtly rewarding her when she made progress. Sometimes it was a CD she liked, sometimes he would take her out to eat, or give her tickets to a concert...
Just like now, in just a few dozen minutes, he had accurately weighed the pros and cons in a pile of documents. With his unique business acumen, he began to explain to her meticulously, covering every detail and every precaution.
He was always like this, effortlessly making people fall for him without even trying. Song Er thought perhaps her self-control was simply lacking. And so, without either of them directly acknowledging it, they maintained contact in perfect sync. Gu Luxing would come to Song Group after work every day, check her daily progress, and point out what wasn't suitable.
With Gu Luxing's guidance, Song Er's project progress didn't necessarily speed up, but she had already started to see some preliminary results. Director Xin even praised her on one rare occasion during a discussion.
With the final exams approaching, Song Er had a lot on her plate besides the company—professional exams, some basic compulsory courses, and theoretical knowledge assessments. Although Song Er wasn't aiming for any scholarships, she was never one to be careless with her studies.
During a chance encounter with Su Xie after class, he frowned unhappily upon seeing her, telling her that she was neglecting her health.
"I probably won't be coming to the company next week."
To prepare more fully for the final exams, Song Er decided to temporarily set aside her company matters. She mentioned this to Gu Luxing when he drove her back to the Song family house.
"Okay," Gu Luxing replied simply, with only one word, sounding utterly indifferent.
Song Er was going to explain, but seeing that Gu Luxing didn't seem to care, she didn't elaborate. She had also explained the situation to the company and asked for a temporary leave. Compared to dealing with company matters, studying was much easier, and Gu Luxing didn't plan to intervene.
However, Song Er still had to go to the company for a temporary document that needed handling.
She thought it was a minor issue, but after looking at the document at the company, Song Er realized there were quite a few places that needed to be addressed, and it wouldn't be finished quickly.
Before long, the few colleagues who were working overtime also left. When she heard a knock on the door, Song Er didn't pay much attention until the person walked closer, and she became aware of their presence.
"Are you never going to remember to eat dinner?" Gu Luxing's face was stern, as if he was lecturing a child who could never learn to be sensible.
Song Er was so flustered that she didn't even wonder how Gu Luxing had appeared there. She instinctively explained, "I forgot because I was busy."
"Why don't you forget yourself too?" Although his words were harsh, Gu Luxing had already opened the lunch box for her, and without asking, he squeezed her out of her seat, opened the document, and started reading it.
After she finished eating, Song Er was about to continue her work, but Gu Luxing had already started dealing with it, and his speed was quite fast.
"I can do this myself," Song Er reminded him from the side.
Gu Luxing didn't even lift his gaze. Instead, he pointed to another document on the table. "A few parts of that proposal seem to need adjustment. You should know how to handle that."
Although she was reluctant, Song Er picked up the document on the table and started reading. It was a projection plan Director Xin had mentioned some time ago. She hadn't had a chance to look at it yet, but there were indeed a few places that needed adjustment.
Probably because of the non-stop revision these past few days, Song Er's eyelids soon became heavy looking at the dense text on the pages, even though she had just drunk a cup of coffee an hour ago.
When Gu Luxing looked back, she had already fallen asleep on the next table. He gently lifted her onto the small sofa next to her, found a blanket, and covered her with it. Probably exhausted from the recent rush, Song Er was sleeping soundly and didn't wake up from the movement.
When Song Er's phone rang, Gu Luxing only had a little bit left to handle. Seeing the caller ID, he hesitated for a second, then answered. "Hello."
"Uncle?"
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