Speechless. Absolutely speechless!
Then something even more annoying happened.
Amidst this slightly awkward atmosphere, the previous project entered its next phase.
The group's anniversary celebration was a key focus for Yunlu this year. Yunlu Hotel planned a series of cultural experience projects incorporating local intangible cultural heritage, aiming to enhance brand appeal and attract high-end cultural clientele.
At the project kickoff meeting, Ying Jingsheng directly assigned: "This project is important. The Publicity Department will take the lead on the initial proposal."
"President Ying, how about assigning this to Comrade Zhao?" Zhang Desheng said obsequiously, looking at Zhao Sili.
Even though this was a mid-level meeting, Zhang Desheng insisted Zhao Sili attend, claiming that though she was new, she was still part of the Ying family and should understand the hotel's plans.
Already displeased, Ying Jingsheng's expression darkened. He looked up at Zhao Sili.
At that moment, Zhao Sili was busy thinking about how to create opportunities for her cousin's girlfriend to shine. Hearing the news, she immediately nodded. "No problem, Department Head. Leave such an honor for the company to me."
However, Ying Jingsheng was a bit worried, since Zhao Sili was new to the workplace.
"So, do you have any ideas?"
Zhao Sili's eyes darted as she quickly replied, "Based on my observations of the hotel, I think the cultural experience must be implemented jointly with the Housekeeping Department, because it involves room layout and service procedures. I request to draft the plan together with a colleague from Housekeeping."
Ying Jingsheng knew exactly what she was up to. He coughed and said, "Draft the proposal first, then discuss it with Housekeeping."
"No, I think the first draft should be discussed with Housekeeping. And I request to work with Tao Xinrou!"
Everyone immediately understood Zhao Sili's intent.
They watched to see what Ying Jingsheng would do.
He frowned, thought for a few seconds, then said, "Submit the draft first, then we'll talk."
But Zhao Sili didn't listen to him. After finishing the initial concept, she found Tao Xinrou, insisting on discussing the proposal.
Tao Xinrou was busy with her own work, but before she could pause, Zhao Sili dragged her to a business tea room normally off-limits to employees.
"It's quiet here, with a great view and inspiration," Zhao Sili said, opening the window to let the breeze in. She turned and winked at Tao Xinrou. "Plus, away from irrelevant people."
Tao Xinrou gave a wry smile. "Sili, isn't it against the rules for you to just pull me into this? And there are other colleagues in Housekeeping."
"I don't want to discuss it with them. I only trust you." Zhao Sili sat down and took out her tablet. "Look, this is my draft from yesterday. My idea is to turn the rooms into heritage-themed rooms. When guests check in, they can participate in our project through handmade activities—try embroidery, bamboo weaving, or making a simple traditional lantern. If it's a couple, they can do it together to bond. I think... why not let our company's couples try it first? Like, let my cousin try?"
Tao Xinrou immediately sensed where this was going. She paused before saying, "Sili, we're discussing the project now."
"Mm-hmm. So, future sister-in-law, any suggestions?"
Tao Xinrou felt helpless. She looked at the proposal seriously. "I don't see major issues, but whether guests will want to stay in specially decorated rooms, where to put the heritage items after the project ends, material costs, follow-up cleaning and maintenance, and guests' time—these are all concerns."
Zhao Sili scratched her head, finally deciding Tao Xinrou was overthinking. "Oh, we can polish the details later. The key now is to create highlights so my cousin and the leaders see your ability and professionalism. Then it'll be easy for you to marry my cousin."
Tao Xinrou didn't know whether to laugh or cry. She was still chewing on the nonexistent gossip.
Tonight, she would make things clear to Ying Jingsheng—no more ambiguity, especially giving Zhao Sili room to imagine.
"By the way, now that we're discussing the plan here, do you think my cousin will show some acknowledgment?" Zhao Sili asked.
"Huh?"
Just as Tao Xinrou was confused, someone knocked and entered—an employee from Administration delivering tea and snacks. Seeing Zhao Sili and Tao Xinrou, they were especially attentive. Setting down the delicate plate, they smiled specifically at Tao Xinrou. "Miss Tao, Fourth Miss, please enjoy. If you need anything, just call."
Tao Xinrou was stunned, beginning to understand what Zhao Sili meant earlier.
As soon as the employee left, Zhao Sili winked at Tao Xinrou. "See? My cousin knows we're working here. The treatment is different, right? This is the girlfriend effect."