Chapter 152: Qin Lin in Trouble, the Convoy Paralyzed

Upon hearing that her mother was critically ill, Gao Ran left in a great hurry. Without even changing her clothes, she took her bodyguards and boarded a plane to head back immediately.

Zhang Tianfeng offered to accompany her, but Gao Ran declined, saying she would reach out only if she needed help.

"Big brother, my sister will be back soon, right?"

"Yes, so you must be a good girl and listen carefully. Your sister will be checking your homework when she returns."

"Mhm, I will definitely be good and study hard."

The man and the little girl whispered to each other as they walked back. After handing Yun Qian over to Yun Tianhe, Zhang Tianfeng headed straight for school. Since his work matters hardly required his direct involvement anymore, he could finally dedicate most of his attention to his studies.

It was afternoon when he arrived back at school. The high school curriculum was demanding, encompassing both theoretical knowledge and practical applications, leaving the paths nearly empty of people. After dropping off his things at the dormitory and stopping by the office to request leave from Gao Ran, Zhang Tianfeng returned to his classroom. His classmates were not at all surprised by his arrival; they glanced at him briefly before returning to their studies.

It was not until the evening classes ended and they were walking back that Lu Wu ran over. "Old Zhang, what have you been busy with?"

Zhang Tianfeng replied, "Working and making money. I told you that a long time ago."

"What kind of job? You're so busy you've even put your studies aside." Lu Wu walked ahead, half a step in front of Zhang Tianfeng, and said slowly, "If I were you, I’d just come help out at my family’s business. Considering our friendship, I could get you an easy position—guaranteed to make money without hindering your studies."

"Thanks, but I’m very happy with my current job, and I have no plans to change it for now."

Lu Wu meant no harm; he just had a slight penchant for showing off, which was only human nature. Regardless, since he was offering to help out of genuine kindness, Zhang Tianfeng naturally would not take offense.

"We have two stubborn guys in our dorm: you and Wang Liang." Lu Wu continued, "You’re sharp and capable, so I’m not worried about you making money, but I’m a bit concerned about that kid Wang Liang."

"Concerned about what?"

Speak of the devil. Wang Liang, dressed in a suit and carrying a briefcase, came running in from outside the school. It really is true that clothes make the man; in his usual patched-up attire, he had looked listless, but now, in his work clothes, he immediately carried the air of a successful professional.

"What have you been up to? We haven't seen you for days," Lu Wu asked.

Wang Liang nodded at Zhang Tianfeng and replied, "I got a new job. I’ve been working during the day and studying at night. I’ve already cleared it with the teacher."

"What kind of job? Don't tell me you're a salesman?" Lu Wu looked stunned for a moment, then patted Wang Liang on the shoulder. "Brother, that job makes good money, but it’s dangerous. If you’re really set on it, I suggest you carry some kind of weapon for self-defense when you’re out making calls."

In this era where money was everywhere, order in certain places had yet to be fully established, and remnants of lawlessness still ran rampant in remote corners. They specifically targeted lone individuals—like salesmen who lacked combat skills but possessed a silver tongue. Without protection, there was a high probability of being robbed.

"I suppose you could call it sales, but I work inside a shop, not out on the streets," Wang Liang said with a smile. "I’ve been grateful for everyone’s support lately, so since Old Zhang is back, let me treat you all to a meal."

Hearing that there was a free meal to be had, the quiet roommates behind them brightened up and quickly agreed. "Alright, you’ll have to tell us all about this job of yours later."

Some felt quite stifled during that meal, as Wang Liang, whom they had always viewed as the most down-and-out among them, had suddenly transformed into a successful professional earning big money. By 1993, Wang Liang was already earning a daily wage of 50 yuan—10 yuan as a base salary and 40 yuan in commissions. If he could keep those figures stable, he would make 1,500 yuan a month. Even Lu Wu couldn't compare to that in some respects.

The reason was that Wang Liang’s workplace was in a toy store in Zhucheng, a direct-operated outlet of the hottest company at the time: the Blue Square Toy Factory.

On the way back, the group walked with their arms around each other, surrounding Wang Liang and asking for advice on how to land a part-time job at the toy factory’s store. Wang Liang glossed over Zhang Tianfeng’s recommendation and explained the standard procedure.

"No way, you have to go through an employment agency just to get a job?"

"Since they are the ones hiring, we have to follow their rules."

Lu Wu, who had been silent for most of the night, suddenly spoke up. "There’s one thing you guys definitely don't know: the Bole Employment Agency is also owned by the boss of Blue Square Toy Factory. This is what you call resource integration."

"Damn, he’s incredible. Not only did he build an ordinary toy factory into a billion-yuan enterprise, but he also started the most promising human resources company."

"Most promising? Who said that?"

"The Coastal Finance News. I forget which issue, but they once did a feature on this newly risen HR company, saying their business philosophy and profit model are completely different from traditional firms." Li Yunsong sighed, "I thought it was some kind of genius at the time; I never expected it to be the boss of the Blue Square Toy Factory."

"Sure enough, geniuses are the best and most top-tier at whatever they do."

Hearing everyone praise him, Zhang Tianfeng felt quite satisfied. Once the money in his account reached a certain point and became just a number, fame became the best motivation to keep pushing forward. He had to admit, the feeling was quite good.

"Let’s go. Early to bed, early to rise. We’ll try our luck tomorrow and see if we can get hired. Bole Employment Agency is opening a new branch in Zhucheng, and I heard their beautiful CEO will be there in person."

"A beautiful CEO?" Upon hearing these words, the group’s drunken haze cleared significantly, and their pace back to the dorm quickened.

The night passed without incident, and in the blink of an eye, it was dawn. Sleeping in school had a unique, nostalgic feeling that Zhang Tianfeng found deeply comforting. He slept until 10:00 AM when he was awakened by someone. He opened his eyes to see Xiang Chen.

Rubbing his eyes, Zhang Tianfeng asked, "Why are you here? Is there an emergency?"

"Boss, Wang Tiancai says there is a very important matter that needs your handling."

"Bring me the phone." Zhang Tianfeng got up. His other roommates had long since left—some for class, others for job interviews. He was alone.

Picking up the phone and walking to the balcony, Zhang Tianfeng asked, "What’s going on?"

"Boss, we’ve lost contact with Boss Qin’s fleet, and the shipment they were transporting for us hasn't arrived on time."

Zhang Tianfeng frowned. This development felt like a bad omen.