Chapter 116

 

Having been invited to a relatively top-tier business summit like the Haigang Young Entrepreneurs Forum, Ming Xi had thought she would see a hall full of rising young talents… but to her slight disappointment, her own Boss Liang was already the most “young and outstanding” one there.

Even if not the youngest, he was certainly the most outstanding.

And even if not the most outstanding—then undoubtedly the most handsome.

…For Miss Ming to have such an impression—was this perhaps “beauty (or talent) lies in the eye of the lover”?

Although the age standard for young entrepreneurs was usually under 45, the age requirement was relatively lenient for those in the technology sector and industries encouraged by the state. Therefore, the average age of the participants at this young entrepreneur summit was still over forty.

At 28, Ming Xi could only be considered among the “youngest of the young” present.

While Miss Ming had risen to prominence at the Haigang Foreign Trade Association, she was undoubtedly a new face at this meeting. That’s why Ming Xi could sit in the back corner and take a nap without anyone noticing.

Except, of course, Boss Liang.

Today, Kevin, the general manager of Xinghai Foreign Trade, was also sitting in the same row as Ming Xi from Mingzhou.

When Kevin noticed Liang Jiancheng’s probing gaze subtly cast at this direction, he turned his head and saw Miss Ming slightly tilting her head, completely unaware as she dozed. He couldn’t help pressing his lips together, a trace of warmth rising in his heart—something unusual for a seasoned businessman of his years. Having spent two decades navigating the business world, Kevin had seen too many marriages based on mutual interests, and many more carefully calculated for status and gain. But a case like Liang Jiancheng’s—entering the game for love and ultimately becoming the best “investment”—was rare not just among people he knew, but in the entire business environment.

Such pure affection was truly enviable. Otherwise, how many couples could attend a summit like this together?

The afternoon meeting was long and tedious. Outside, the autumn sun blazed, and the heat seeped through the windows into the vast conference hall, creating a warm, drowsy atmosphere. It wasn’t just Miss Ming— even Kevin couldn’t help sneaking a yawn, forcing himself to stay focused.

Her navy blue suit jacket slung loosely over her shoulders, her eyelashes drooping uncontrollably, until a cough from behind her made Ming Xi open her eyes and sit up straight.

She had only dozed for a moment—so briefly that upon waking, it almost felt as if she had never fallen asleep at all.

This month, she had poured her heart and soul into preparing for the opening of the Bright high-end brand store at Longmao Department Store. Every day had been filled with both challenges and pressure. Yet each time she overcame an obstacle at the last moment, a surge of exhilaration would follow. In Mingzhou’s business decisions this year, she had made several bold, even risky choices—and each time, achieving relatively good results after pushing through difficulty brought her a pure joy that no amount of money could provide. That kind of joy was like New Year’s fireworks—brilliantly blooming in her heart, generating endless energy. And so, cycle after cycle, she kept climbing. At this point, Miss Ming was no longer fixated on when she would reach the top; what mattered was maintaining that upward drive throughout the journey.

And that was more than enough.

So how could a driven, energetic Boss Ming be tired enough to fall asleep? It really didn’t make sense.

Ming Xi had never experienced pregnancy before. Even though her period was a week late and she had some suspicions, she didn’t connect her drowsiness to that possibility.

On the other hand, Liang Jiancheng dared to consider it more directly. He knew Ming Xi’s cycle very well—after all, she was always regular.

Thinking about it carefully, last week, with the opening of the Bright flagship store, Boss Ming had personally handled everything, practically becoming the brand’s visual merchandiser. It was no surprise she hadn’t even noticed the delay.

In the first half of the year, Mingzhou had faced financial pressure. Even so, Bright’s flagship store had opened successfully. Regardless of his relationship with her, even from a purely business perspective, Liang Jiancheng deeply admired the determination of this female CEO.

Today, business elites from various industries had gathered—different fields, different philosophies—but mutual respect outweighed any prejudice. Everyone present was accomplished and well-presented, dressed in formal attire.

When the meeting ended, people filed out in an orderly manner, gesturing politely and yielding to one another.

“Mr. Liu, please.”

“Chairman Zhao, after you—”

Then, Chairman Chen walked by.

Ming Xi tilted her head slightly, observing the scene. She could say with certainty—everyone present today had a net worth of at least hundreds of millions… Finally, as the long afternoon session ended, Ming Xi let out a quiet breath of relief. Her seat was near the exit, and instead of standing immediately, she deliberately lingered, waiting for Liang Jiancheng to walk over from the front.

She leaned back in her chair, waiting leisurely.

Liang Jiancheng walked with a composed gait, dressed in a well-tailored solid-color suit. Tall and upright, a barely perceptible smile played on his lips.

By the time he reached Ming Xi, most of the nearby seats had already emptied.

He stopped in front of her, and only then did she pick up her briefcase and rise gracefully. One in a formal black suit, the other in a navy women’s suit, they walked side by side toward the exit.

At the doorway, Ming Xi smiled with composed elegance, turning slightly toward him. “Mr. Liang, please.”

Liang Jiancheng’s lips curved slightly: “Miss Ming, after you.”

More than half a year had passed since Ming Xi and Liang Jiancheng registered their marriage. Naturally, their friends and family knew about their relationship, but outsiders did not—at least, among the many business leaders attending today’s event, more than half had no idea that this striking man and woman walking side by side were husband and wife.

In the business world, it wasn’t uncommon for father and son to both be entrepreneurs, but for a married couple to each rise to prominence in their own right was truly rare. Especially a pair like them—so outstanding in presence—that simply standing in the venue added a captivating highlight to an otherwise serious conference.

Good looks might not mean much at the bottom of society, but the higher one climbed, the more an exceptional appearance—regardless of gender—became a unique and irreplicable asset.

Of course, Miss Ming hadn’t relied on looks alone—she had worked her way up step by step to reach this point.

After leaving the conference hall, all attendees gathered in the banquet hall on the third floor for dinner. Due to the year’s economic conditions, the government had simplified the event—both lunch and dinner were served buffet-style.

At such occasions, having a familiar companion always made things easier. Liang Jiancheng was about to ask Ming Xi whether she preferred noodles or rice tonight, but he saw her already striding quickly toward the window—clearly aiming to secure the best table.

Although the conference was simplified, everyone present was a major taxpayer, so seating was certainly not an issue. The banquet hall itself was grand and elegant, with hostesses in traditional fitted qipao stationed every few steps, ready to pull out chairs and guide guests to their seats.

Ming Xi went straight to a table by the lakeside window, placing her briefcase on both sides to “claim” the spot in advance.

Only then did she contentedly join the line to get food.

Liang Jiancheng had attended such high-level government summits for two years now, with the venue always set in this secluded, state-owned garden hotel.

The banquet hall had once hosted national leaders, and the best seats offered a full view of the scenic lakeside. Yet even after attending twice, this was his first time sitting at such a prime window spot.

He had to admit—his Miss Ming had a clear mind in everything she did. Even for something as trivial as grabbing a seat, she could make the optimal decision in the most efficient way.

Ming Xi had taken the initiative to secure the table mainly because her appetite hadn’t been great lately. She thought moving around might help stimulate it.

In the end, though, she still couldn’t eat much. After circling the buffet, she only took a bowl of chili oil noodles.

When she returned with her noodles, she found that besides Liang Jiancheng, another young businessman had already taken a seat at their table. The man looked to be about thirty-five—among young entrepreneurs, he would be considered a promising “rising talent,” as judged by Boss Ming, the “youngest of the young.”

Li Feng, a newcomer to this year’s forum, was indeed one of those rising talents. While looking for a seat, he spotted Liang Jiancheng—handsome and even younger-looking than himself. Glancing at the name badge on his chest, he approached politely, speaking in a strong Taiwanese accent, “Mr. Liang, hello—may I sit here?”

Liang Jiancheng looked up and nodded courteously.

After sitting down, Li Feng introduced himself warmly. “Thank you. I’m Li Feng from Guming Electronics, a new participant this year. It’s a pleasure to meet you, Liang—”

“Liang Jiancheng, Xinghai Technology,” Liang Jiancheng replied briefly.

Hearing the name, Li Feng—who had invested in an electronics company in Haigang—immediately showed respect. Setting down his plate, he quickly extended his hand. “I’ve heard so much about you! My father mentioned Xinghai Technology to me last year. Mr. Liang is not only capable but also incredibly handsome!”

Having grown up accustomed to praise, Liang Jiancheng simply nodded slightly, maintaining his usual composure. “Thank you. Mr. Li is quite handsome as well.”

“I’m alright, but I’m very satisfied with my hairstyle today,” Li Feng joked with a grin. Just as he was wondering what to talk about next, he suddenly noticed a young woman with a sharp, elegant figure and luminous features walking over and taking the seat beside him.

Rarity makes things precious—he hadn’t expected that the three most attractive people at the conference would end up sitting at the same table! Li Feng instantly straightened his back, looking even more confident. His smile, originally directed at Liang Jiancheng, immediately shifted toward the newcomer. Sneaking a glance at the badge on Ming Xi’s blazer, he switched to standard Mandarin and greeted her enthusiastically, “Hello, Miss Ming.”

Ming Xi glanced at Liang Jiancheng across the table, then slowly sat down. Turning slightly, she nodded at Li Feng, her gaze sweeping over his name tag. “And you are?”

“I’m Li Feng from Guming Electronics. First year attending.”

“Mingzhou Foreign Trade, Ming Xi. I’m also new this year,” she said, extending her hand.

“Then what a coincidence—we’re both new rising entrepreneurs this year!” Li Feng quickly shook her hand, not forgetting to display his charm.

Ming Xi responded politely, then straightened her posture and lowered her head to start eating her noodles.

In high spirits, Li Feng shot Liang Jiancheng a somewhat triumphant smile—but Mr. Liang showed no reaction. Suddenly, Liang Jiancheng across from her spoke, his tone indifferent: “These noodles look pretty good.”

Ming Xi: …

Liang Jiancheng never ate spicy food, so that remark was clearly just something he said to keep the conversation going.

Ming Xi glanced at the food on his plate, raised an eyebrow, and echoed his tone, “Mr. Liang, what’s this golden-looking thing?”

The knowing question made Liang Jiancheng want to laugh, and he deliberately said, “I don’t know, I just grabbed it.”

Ming Xi chuckled and shook her head.

Just then, Li Feng leaned over, carefully examined Liang Jiancheng’s plate, and said to Ming Xi with deliberate gentleness, “That’s golden fungus sashimi—a type of tremella mushroom.”

Ming Xi nodded her thanks, “Thank you for clarifying, Mr. Li.”

“You’re welcome. The texture’s quite good—you can try some later,” Li Feng said with an even brighter smile, almost offering to fetch some for her—

But Liang Jiancheng cut in directly, “Want to try it?”

Ming Xi gave a soft “hmm” in response. The next second, Liang Jiancheng picked up a piece from his plate with his chopsticks and placed it into the small dish in front of her—an effortlessly intimate gesture.

Li Feng: …

Wasn’t it said that mainland men weren’t good at pursuing women? That smooth, perfectly timed move was anything but clumsy!

“It tastes good,” Ming Xi said, her eyes curving with a smile after taking a bite.

“If you like it, we can have Auntie try making it at home next time,” Liang Jiancheng said, his gaze falling on her bowl of chili oil noodles. He knew her appetite hadn’t been great these past few days—even so, she shouldn’t be eating something this spicy.

“Want some fruit? I’ll get you some… wife?” After finishing the first part, the last word—wife—was clearly added on purpose.

Li Feng’s eyes widened instantly, his smile freezing for a moment before he burst out laughing. “Hahaha—so you two are actually married!”

Awkward—but also suddenly lighthearted and amusing.

As Liang Jiancheng stood up, Li Feng joked with a smile, “Mr. Liang, if it’s convenient, could you bring me an orange, the sour kind?”

Liang Jiancheng naturally agreed—after all, everyone present today could potentially become business partners in the future.

“No problem, Mr. Li, I’ll definitely pick the sourest one for you.”

October was the season for fresh oranges.

Ming Xi took a few more bites of her noodles but found she’d lost interest in the spicy flavor. When Liang Jiancheng returned with a few oranges, he peeled one and handed her a segment. She bit into it—the tart juice spread across her tongue, and it felt unexpectedly refreshing.

“Could I be pregnant?” Ming Xi mouthed silently to Liang Jiancheng, her eyes sparkling with surprise and anticipation. After all, that’s how it always goes in dramas—suddenly craving sour things means something’s up!

Liang Jiancheng didn’t dare confirm, nor dismiss it lightly. He felt the possibility was high, yet also worried it might just be a stomach issue.

The next morning, Ming Xi used a pregnancy test—two faint red lines appeared.

Liang Jiancheng waited outside the bathroom. When she pushed the door open and came out, head lowered, she walked straight into his arms.

After eight years together, that single gesture said everything. Liang Jiancheng didn’t need her to say a word—he already knew the answer.

He held her tightly in return.

It was said that the heart is the first organ to form in a developing child.

Then very soon, their embrace would no longer be the rhythm of just two beating hearts.

Although the test had already brought good news, Ming Xi officially registered her pregnancy in November. The expected due date recorded in her file was July 10, 2009

…

With her pregnancy arriving so suddenly, Ming Xi had to slow down her work pace.

Back in May, during a layover in Hong Kong, she had joked, “If conditions allow, I might hire a professional manager someday.” Liang Jiancheng had replied, “If Miss Ming has that need, do you think I’d qualify?”

She had thought he was joking. But as she entered her second trimester, Liang Jiancheng stepped in without hesitation and took over most of her work.

Then came the real test of whether Boss Liang had ulterior motives.

In May and June, the vice president’s office at Xinghai Technology was practically empty, but on the 24th floor of the Jiemu Building, in the CEO’s office, Liang Jiancheng showed up on time every single day.

He continuously injected funds and resources into Mingzhou, even personally snatched two European orders from Xinghai Foreign Trade, single-handedly helping Ming Xi get through the most difficult three months.

In the turbulent world of commerce, without sudden turning points, a company could only hack its way forward through layers of challenges.

When the economy rises, even pigs can fly; when it declines, the law of the jungle takes over—big fish eat small fish, small fish eat shrimp, and even the big fish fight fiercely among themselves.

In the past six months, Mingzhou had indeed faced immense pressure. Yet under that pressure, it not only held onto its market share in textile fabrics but even expanded against the trend.

During this special period, Liang Jiancheng’s role at Mingzhou resembled that of a regent prince—like in the TV series The Secret History of Xiaozhuang. Even though he held great power, whenever it came to critical decisions, he still consulted Ming Xi, who was at home focusing on her pregnancy.

Though pregnancy made her physically more prone to fatigue, Ming Xi’s mind never stopped working.

She temporarily stepped back from traveling for business negotiations but continued maintain control over Bright’s operations.

Xinyu joked, “Bright is practically our Miss Ming’s own child.”

Bright, this self-created brand, embodied years of Ming Xi’s dedication. Beyond emotional attachment, it represented her long-term strategic vision for a company’s future.

Only by building its own brand could a company gain the upper hand in the fierce market competition to come.

The overseas market was like a vast starry sky, but wasn’t the domestic market a boundless ocean?

This view was shared by Miss Ming and “Regent” Liang. That was why, even during the most difficult months, she insisted on establishing the Bright brand.

2008 was a difficult year. But in 2009, under economic stimulus policies, the domestic market began to show signs of recovery. While other foreign trade companies rushed to follow the trend and create their own brands, Bright had already opened its second store in impressive fashion.

During this special period, even with the added hormones of pregnancy, Ming Xi maintained a remarkably peaceful, composed, and even slightly leisurely state throughout her pregnancy and prenatal period.

In the first week of July, nearing her delivery, Ming Xi didn’t stay at her own home but instead stayed at Gu Shuangyang’s place—at her insistence. During the final week before delivery, with little to do, she liked to spend time on the third-floor terrace, browsing online and occasionally checking the newly launched customs website for updates.

Unexpectedly, she came across breaking news that month—the U.S. Department of Commerce had initiated an anti-dumping investigation into Chinese polyester staple fiber exports. On the preliminary list of targeted entities, Mingzhou Textile was prominently named.

Ming Xi immediately called Liang Jiancheng: “…Mr. Liang! Mingzhou has been listed in an anti-dumping case—why didn’t I know about this?”

Liang Jiancheng explained helplessly—it had happened suddenly, and with her due date approaching, he had planned to tell her only after the matter was resolved.

Ming Xi was anxious, but at such a critical moment, she couldn’t blame him for withholding the information.

After only a few more words, she suddenly felt something change in her body. Taking two deep breaths, a sheen of sweat formed on her forehead. Her right hand gripped the armrest of the lounge chair tightly. In that instant, it felt like even if the sky were falling, nothing else mattered. Holding the phone, her voice went hoarse as she said to Liang Jiancheng: “…I think I’m going into labor!”

The panic lasted only a few seconds—then she steadied herself.

Two minutes later—

Ming Xi came down from the third-floor terrace, one hand supporting her lower back. She paused briefly, then, with commanding presence, called out toward the study: “Mom, Xiao Ge, call the driver—”

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