Movies and TV: Neighbor Qiao Yingzi, Crazy Pursuit of Song Qian and Wen Jie

Chapter 17: A Tempest in the Yoga Studio?

Before long, Su Bai had handled all the formalities related to the yoga studio. To him, the studio was merely a gift from the system; its profits or losses were of no consequence. Even if it incurred losses, the mere possession of the place was a victory.

Thus, Su Bai resolved to grant all employees a raise. He also confirmed that Xiaomeng would be the new manager of the yoga studio. Though the previous manager harboured some discontent, the promise of a salary increase swiftly quelled any objections.

When Su Bai left the yoga studio, it was already bustling with people. He had earlier reviewed the financial statements, which were pleasantly promising.

“Boss, I won’t be escorting you further. I’ve got a class to teach and no time to send you back,” Xiaomeng said, guiding Su Bai to the studio’s entrance and stopping by her motorbike.

The other instructors had wanted to see him off as well, not only because of his striking looks but because he had granted them a raise on his very first day. After all, no one would ever refuse more money.

In a short span, Su Bai had won their hearts. Some of them even wished they could be his girlfriend. However, Su Bai showed no inclination in that direction, so only Xiaomeng was able to see him off. She, after all, knew Su Bai personally, and his decision to promote her as manager on the first day had earned the envy of all.

“Xiaomeng-jie, you don’t need to send me off.”

“Just remember one thing,” Su Bai warned, lowering his voice. “Do not let anyone know I own the yoga studio—not even Qiao Weidong.”

“If word gets out, I might have to let you go.”

“You know as well as I do—if Qiao Weidong finds out I bought the yoga studio for you, he’ll come looking for trouble. How could a mere high school student like me fend him off?”

He chuckled, rubbing his nose in self-mockery.

Xiaomeng laughed, her tone light. “Don’t worry. I know what to do. I don’t want to be sacked just after becoming manager.”

“Well, I’m off then. I’ll visit again soon,” Su Bai said, putting on his helmet and riding off in a blur. He had promised Song Qian to be home for dinner and was running late.

Xiaomeng watched him disappear into the distance, her mind adrift.

Today felt like a dream. From being an ordinary yoga instructor, she had suddenly become the manager. Su Bai had even said he bought the place for her.

At first, she was sceptical, suspecting it was one of Song Qian’s schemes to drive her away from Qiao Weidong. But soon she dismissed that notion—Song Qian didn’t have that kind of money, nor would she spend so much over a personal grudge.

Qiao Weidong had pursued Song Qian for years, their entanglement unresolved despite her cold demeanour. Reconciliation wouldn’t require such an elaborate plan.

Moreover, Su Bai kept the ownership secret, which made Xiaomeng wonder: Did he truly do all this for me? If so, what am I supposed to do now?

Su Bai’s sudden presence had thrown her heart into disarray.

’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’

“Yingzi, Taozi, finished watching the film?” Su Bai called out as he returned to Shuxiang Yaju, seeing Qiao Yingzi and Huang Zitao walking into the complex.

Hearing his voice, they turned around, their moods lifted from the movie.

“Finished your business?” Yingzi asked, smiling warmly.

“All done. Do you want to come home with me, or will you head back on your own?” Su Bai asked, glancing at his motorbike—it could only seat one.

Since they were already in the complex, it was convenient for Taozi to head home.

“Let’s part here, Taozi. I’ll go back with Su Bai,” Yingzi said without hesitation, hopping on the back of his motorbike.

Taozi sighed, reluctantly agreeing, “Fine, but take it slow, you two.”

Yingzi hugged Su Bai’s waist as they drove off, the engine roaring softly.

“If my mum asks, tell her I was doing listening practice at school,” Yingzi reminded Su Bai again as they reached home.

“Don’t worry, I’ve got it. Mutual cover, right?” Su Bai teased.

“Right. I’ll help you when you need it,” she promised.

“Deal, then. You owe me,” he replied with a laugh.

They reached the third floor, the conversation falling silent as they approached the door. They had to be cautious—her mother was likely listening.