They spoke with an easy smile, their voices carrying the undertone of an unsolicited comment, "The flower fool remains the flower fool, but let's not get too entangled in his affairs. How can a man like Jack ever truly take notice of us? But have you heard? The female star gracing us with her presence today is Su Ling!"
Georgia had initially felt a touch of drowsiness creeping in, but the moment that name registered, all traces of fatigue instantly vanished. Su Ling, the star spokesperson she had seen at the jewelry exhibition that day, was a well-established third-tier female star, known for her charm and talent.
"What? Su Ling, the one who played the leading role in that popular drama recently? She's been making headlines lately."
"Yes! Just a while ago, I saw her getting into Yu Zong's car. She's really something, isn't she?"
A hushed anticipation buzzed through the group, like a collective sigh.
Georgia's heart couldn't help but flutter. It wasn't that she was inclined to believe in such rumors easily, but she couldn't dismiss the memory of seeing Jack and Su Ling together at the meeting. The memory of their close proximity, their animated conversation, and Jack's rare smiles directed at Su Ling had etched themselves into her mind.
Indeed, as others said, both of them were exceptionally talented and stunningly attractive.
She bit her lip, her fingers tightly clenched into fists. If she allowed herself to dwell on it, she and Jack indeed seemed like an ill-fitting pair, and the insecurities she had long buried crept to the surface.
Beside her, Xiao Han keenly observed Georgia's changing emotions and hurriedly inquired, "What's wrong? Is the commotion getting to you?"
Georgia was at a loss for words but gently shook her head.
"Put on your headphones, and try to get some rest. We'll be there soon."
Georgia nodded, donning her earphones to drown out the external noise. The soothing strains of music eased her anxiety, but her mind continued to churn with unease.
After listening to a few songs, her mood improved, and her heart began to settle. Regardless of what others said, Jack's feelings were known to him alone. She couldn't let a few remarks from others disrupt her thoughts so easily.
Soon, several parallel buses navigated a bend in the road and arrived at an expansive location. In the distance lay a pristine lake, surrounded by lush greenery and the sprawling lakeside manor that enveloped nearly half of its shoreline.
"Wow, it's so beautiful!"
The group marveled at the breathtaking scenery, their excitement mounting as they disembarked from the buses. The enchanting ambiance left no room for gossip; everyone was eager to explore their surroundings, and the initial chatter about Su Ling quickly faded into the background.
Georgia removed her earphones, gathered her belongings, and disembarked alongside Xiao Han.
The air was crisp and invigorating, carrying the scent of the nearby lake. The mere presence of such natural beauty had a soothing effect, easing the tension in the air.
A member of the company assumed the role of organizing the check-in process, handing out room keys to the employees, and subsequently outlining the day's itinerary.
Georgia and Xiao Han made their way from their rooms to the assembly hall. They couldn't help but notice that their department colleagues seemed somewhat displeased.
Due to the company's size, off-site activities such as boating, fruit-picking in the orchard, and outdoor excursions had to be divided among different departments. Several groups would embark on their respective adventures, while the administrative department was relegated to oversee the on-site entertainment activities.
The collective sighs and murmurs within the department reflected a sense of discontent.
"Why does our administrative department always end up at the bottom? Why do we have to remain here?"
"That's right! I've already changed into casual clothes."
The department head, Sister Lan, who was responsible for the outing, maintained a stern expression. She clapped her hands and said, "Alright, let's not dwell on this. We'll rotate through the activities; there's plenty of time. No need for complaints."
Her words seemed to quell the disgruntlement within the department, and a sense of order returned. However, Georgia couldn't help but feel that the unease she carried within herself mirrored the department's discontent. She silently vowed to enjoy the day ahead, regardless of any distractions or rumors that might arise.