"Well done," Sister Lan's voice rang out, punctuating the meeting's conclusion. Her gaze swept across the assembled individuals, and she continued, her tone authoritative, "Take a page from Georgia's book. Learn to channel her work ethic instead of indulging in idle chatter and gossip."
As her words echoed in the room, her colleagues' expressions underwent a visible transformation. Those who had once been enthusiastic vendor of office rumors seemed to have lost their voices, their faces turning shades of embarrassment.
The incident involving Cheng Lu's reprimand by Jack for consuming half a box of mangoes had become the latest buzz around the office. However, the atmosphere now dictated a shift in behavior, especially toward Georgia. Post the incident, it became apparent that her identity held a unique significance.
As the meeting drew to a close, Georgia exited the conference room. A cluster of colleagues surrounded her, their words laden with admiration. "Assistant Georgia, that was impressive! Completing the holiday gift boxes single-handedly!"
"Absolutely! Sister Lan's clearly taking notice of you. You better take us under your wing from now on!"
"…"
Caught in the midst of the gathering, Georgia found herself in an unexpected spotlight. Discomfort colored her features as she laughed off their praise. "It's just luck. I've got a lot to learn from all of you..."
Meng Zihan, however, trailed behind the group, her expression icy, scoffing at their sycophantic display.
Not too long ago, these very individuals had surrounded her, each engaging her in conversation. Yet, now, the tide had turned, and they seemed to adopt a different stance – as flexible as grass in the wind.
Her gaze, steely and dismissive, locked onto Georgia. Her distaste for her had only grown, exacerbated by her recent promotion. But beyond that, the recent incident had awakened a deeper sense of unease. Georgia was now a formidable rival, potentially threatening her position within the administrative department. If Lan Jie were to be promoted, Georgia would likely be her prime competitor for the role of supervisor.
Her unease deepening, Meng Zihan clenched her fists, restlessness gnawing at her.
No, she couldn't remain passive. She had to take action – she couldn't let herself fade into obscurity.
As the day unfolded, Georgia found herself besieged by her colleagues' attention. Whether fetching water or taking a break, they clung to her like sticky candy, unwavering in their companionship. It reached a point where she hesitated to leave her office, lest she be trailed by this entourage.
As the afternoon stretched on, Georgia was about to send a message to Jack, inquiring about their departure time, when her phone rang. Ms. Liu's name lit up the screen.
"Hello, Mom."
"Georgia, are you done with work? Come back for dinner."
"Work just ended. Why the sudden invitation?"
Her mother's voice brimmed with a familiar resolve. "Don't ask questions. Just come home. Your father and I have something to discuss with you."
Amusement and curiosity mingled within Georgia. She agreed, "Alright, I'll head back."
With the call ended, she turned her attention to composing a message to Jack, a question hovering at the tip of her tongue. Yet, before she could hit send, Ms. Liu's call interjected.
After confirming her attendance, she locked her phone and prepared to leave for home.
Navigating the rush-hour traffic, Georgia finally arrived at her parents' residence, her heart aflutter with a sense of anticipation.
Upon entering, she was greeted by a table laden with her favorite dishes, a sight that instantly brightened her mood. A triumphant smile stretched her lips as she pinched a chicken wing for a taste.
A swift reprimand followed as Ms. Liu's chopsticks struck her hand. "What's this behavior? You're a grown woman – wash your hands before you eat."
"Understood."
Chastened by the reproach, Georgia moved to cleanse her hands, eager to appease her mother's meticulous standards.
With Professor Ruan also setting aside his newspaper, a newfound gravity infused the room. Their expressions seemed unusually solemn, and Georgia felt a mounting unease.
Her question hung tentatively in the air, "Dad, Mom, what's this about?"
Her father's voice resonated, bearing the weight of their conversation. "Georgia, we've been talking, your mother and I. There's something we'd like to discuss with you."
She detected an air of seriousness in their tones, and her apprehension grew. "Mom, what's going on?"
Ever the forceful matriarch, Ms. Liu issued her command, "Sit down and eat first. No need to worry."
Though hesitant, Georgia complied, her mind racing with scenarios.
Ms. Liu fixed her gaze on her daughter, her words measured. "How have things been between you and Xiaoyu lately?"
Georgia swallowed a nervous lump in her throat. "Decent, I suppose…"
Meeting her daughter's gaze, Ms. Liu continued, "Decent, you say? When do you plan to hold the wedding?"
The unexpected query left Georgia stunned. "Wedding?"
It dawned on her that she and Jack had never truly discussed this matter. Their life together in another hospital had become a quiet routine, a reflection of an old married couple.
Ms. Liu's voice carried a touch of exasperation, "Yes, your wedding. You're my only daughter. I don't ask for much. I simply wish for you to have your own family. Don't tell me you haven't considered it at all."
The directness of her mother's words struck a chord, rendering Georgia momentarily speechless. "I…"
Ms. Liu's discerning eyes held a knowing glint. "Look at her, Old Georgia. Our daughter's all grown up now, yet so clueless."
Professor Ruan, sipping wine, observed his daughter with a contemplative expression. "Georgia, your mother's right. We're not seeking grandeur. Now that you and Jack have your marriage certificate, it's only fitting to hold a wedding ceremony."
Georgia felt caught off guard by their sudden discussion. She had never entertained these thoughts before, and Jack had never broached the subject.
Observing her silence, Professor Ruan pressed on. "Georgia, your mother and I believe that we should proceed with a ceremony. Our parents only wish to see you happy. This will be a simple affair, inviting close relatives to celebrate together."
With a deep breath, Georgia responded softly, "Dad, I understand. I'll talk to Jack about it."
Unbeknownst to her, her parents' intentions were driven by their love for her. Yet, Georgia couldn't fathom their depth of concern. Even after their discussion, she remained anxious that her entry into the Jack family might expose her to unnecessary hardships.
Moreover, she secretly harbored the desire for her own unique wedding. After all, it was a once-in-a-lifetime event.
The decision solidified within her. When she returned to another hospital and met Jack, she would broach the topic with him.
Back in the confines of the other residence, Georgia noticed Jack's car parked within the yard. Determining that he had returned, she entered the premises, greeted by the comforting sight of his vehicle.
Aunt Rong, her steadfast presence, directed her toward the study. "He should be in the study. You can find him there."
"Thank you."
Ascending to the second floor, Georgia stood before the study's entrance, her heart a mix of resolve and apprehension. Knocking softly, she called out, "Jack?"
Within the confines of the study, silence greeted her, the room devoid of any response.
Pushing the door ajar, she stepped within, her gaze sweeping the space. Yet, Jack was nowhere to be seen.