Come on, What Kind of CEO Chases His Roommate Back to the Country? - Chapter 35

In the car, Zhou Feng couldn’t help but sigh. “I didn’t expect you to handle things so well. Madam Zhao is not easy to deal with, everyone we sent before got kicked out.”

Pei Song nodded without saying a word. Securing this project meant even greater pressure, especially with Liu Yan watching like a hawk.

“Don’t worry about what others say,” Zhou Feng seemed to read his mind. “You have the ability.”

Pei Song gazed out the window as the sunset bathed the city in gold.

When the car stopped in front of the company, Pei Song was about to get out when Zhou Feng called him back. “Pei Song, you’re the main speaker for next week’s brand launch event.”

Pei Song paused. “Me?”

“You know this project best, and you’re the most suitable person to present our vision,” Zhou Feng said. “I trust you’ll do well.”

Watching Zhou Feng walk away, Pei Song clenched his fists.

Back in his office, he immediately started preparing for the launch event.

At the next day’s department meeting, Zhou Feng publicly praised Pei Song. “The Jin Shang Xuan project has made a major breakthrough, thanks to Pei Song’s outstanding performance.”

Liu Yan’s expression changed, but he was the first to applaud. “Indeed, Manager Pei is impressive.”

The exaggerated tone was laced with sarcasm.

Pei Song simply smiled. “It’s all thanks to everyone’s support.”

After the meeting, Zhou Feng called Pei Song into his office alone. “I trust your abilities, but you need to handle team relationships carefully.”

Pei Song understood and nodded. “I know what to do.”

The launch event was set in Jin Shang Xuan’s second-floor banquet hall, a venue that showcased its heritage while accommodating the media.

“Nervous?” Zhou Feng asked as Pei Song made his final preparations.

“Not really.” Pei Song adjusted his speech notes, his eyes falling on Liu Yan’s dark expression in the audience.

He knew this event was not just about Jin Shang Xuan’s transformation. It was also a key moment for his standing in the company.

The event officially began. Standing at the podium, Pei Song spoke steadily.

“For seventy years, Jin Shang Xuan has upheld a belief to bring traditional cuisine into everyone’s lives. Today, we are not changing tradition, but passing it on.”

He opened the prepared PPT, showcasing a series of innovative dishes. Each dish retained the essence of traditional craftsmanship while incorporating creative modern presentations.

“For example, this ‘Osmanthus Cloud Delight’ is inspired by Jin Shang Xuan’s signature osmanthus cake.” The screen displayed a delicate dessert. “Using French mousse techniques, we’ve made the texture lighter, but the core recipe remains true to tradition.”

Madam Zhao smiled approvingly, clearly satisfied with the concept.

“Behind every innovation, there is a traditional craftsman’s lifelong dedication.” Pei Song’s voice carried conviction. “We’re not abandoning tradition, we’re giving it new life in a way that resonates with younger generations.”

During the Q&A session, a reporter asked, “Some say modernizing old brands is like cutting off their roots. What’s your view?”

Pei Song was prepared. “Innovation does not mean rejecting tradition. Take this osmanthus cake. It’s simply adapted to modern tastes, but the most crucial steps in its production remain unchanged.”

He gestured for the staff to serve samples. “Please try it for yourselves. See if it still carries the taste of Jin Shang Xuan in your memories.”

Reporters praised it, and Madam Zhao nodded in satisfaction.

“This is true innovation,” she declared. “Preserving the old flavors while embracing new trends.”

Her words were quickly noted by the press. With Jin Shang Xuan’s veteran backing the project, the event’s impact exceeded expectations.

After the event, Liu Yan sneered. “No wonder Zhou Feng values you so much, you even managed to win over Madam Zhao.”

“I didn’t ‘win over’ anyone.” Pei Song remained calm. “Genuine effort brings real results.”

“Heh, easy for you to say.” Liu Yan smirked. “Don’t think I don’t know why you stay late working every night. Zhou Feng treats you well, you must enjoy that, huh?”

Pei Song clenched his fists, took a deep breath, and replied, “Liu Yan, if you have time for this nonsense, why not spend it improving yourself?”

“You!” Liu Yan was about to explode when Zhou Feng approached.

“The launch event was a success,” Zhou Feng said, patting Pei Song’s shoulder. “Let’s have dinner tonight.”

“No, thanks,” Pei Song declined politely. “I still have work to finish.”

Watching them walk away, Liu Yan seethed with jealousy. He pulled out his phone and quickly typed a message.

“Boss Zhou, there’s something I think you should know…”

That night, Pei Song had just arrived home when he received a message from Shi Yancheng.

“How did the event go?”

“Not bad,” Pei Song replied briefly. “Some people just love making trouble…”

“Ignore the gossip,” Shi Yancheng said. “Your performance speaks for itself.”

Looking at his phone, Pei Song felt a warmth in his heart. Yeah, as long as he stayed true to himself, why care about others’ opinions?

He opened his laptop to continue working. Just then, a message popped up from Zhou Feng.

“Come to my office tomorrow morning.”

Pei Song frowned. Something about this felt off.

The next morning, when Pei Song knocked on Zhou Feng’s office door, the atmosphere felt tense.

“Take a look at this.” Zhou Feng slid a screenshot across the desk.

It was an old chat record from years ago, back when Pei Song had just graduated and confessed to Zhou Feng before going abroad, only to be rejected.

Pei Song looked at the youthful words on the screen, feeling a mix of embarrassment and resignation. “That was a long time ago.”

“I know,” Zhou Feng said calmly. “I called you here because someone is trying to stir things up with this. I don’t want it affecting work.”

Pei Song understood. He nodded. “Thanks for your trust, Boss Zhou. Honestly, I was young and impulsive back then. Thinking about it now, it’s a little embarrassing.”

“You don’t have to feel that way.” Zhou Feng chuckled. “You were fresh out of college, full of hope for the future. I remember that sincerity. I’ve also been keeping an eye on your progress in D Country over the years.”

“The reason I put you in charge of Jin Shang Xuan’s project is purely because of your professional ability. I know you can handle it.”

Pei Song felt a surge of warmth. Zhou Feng hadn’t let the rumors affect his judgment, instead, he’d been straightforward and reaffirmed his trust.

“But,” Zhou Feng continued, “There are indeed some rumors in the company. Be mindful.”

“I understand,” Pei Song replied. “I’ll let my work speak for itself.”

“Good.” Zhou Feng nodded approvingly. “Make sure to oversee the final phase of Jin Shang Xuan’s project carefully as well.”