Chapter 161: Dirty Tricks
Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia
All the models were shocked. What was Qin Guan's style? Didn't a model have to have their own style and favorite brands?
For example, Ouyang Fen liked formal wear for masculine men, and models from the Plaster Flag Nation preferred novelty and ethnic brands with original designs.
As for the Pickle Nation, their models liked to audition for elegant, gorgeous brands.
The guy had to be crazy. He had chosen everything, from formal wear to casual wear, leaving nothing for others. If they asked him why, Qin Guan would tell them that he was attracted by the high pay. His roles on TV hadn't earned him international popularity, so the designers would pay him according to his level.
He would still get 40,000 yuan for nine shows in only nine days though!
No sooner said than done! When the designers opened their offices, the models took action.
Models from the Pickle Nation started whispering to each other, expressing their disbelief over Qin Guan's over-confident strategy.
The models from the Plaster Flag Nation were also looking at Qin Guan, who they had considered their opponent. A model without a clear identity couldn't be taken seriously as a rival.
Qin Guan was in no hurry. He even invited Ouyang Fen to join him for the fast interviews, but Ouyang refused impolitely.
Qin Guan had no idea that all the models at the square saw him as a common enemy. It was not just Asian models. Several European and American models also wanted to beat him.
Qin Guan confronted all the other models. He picked the brand Te-Tiger, which would be the hitting the show on the first day, as his first choice.
The brand had started by doing fur design. After 20 years of accumulation and development though, it had become a top luxury brand. It had issued a collection of evening dresses, Chinese wedding dresses, and bridal veils.
As a domestic brand, it would present on the first day of the Fashion Week. Different groups of models chose it without prior consultation.
The small interviewing room was soon filled by models who wanted to rob their most dangerous rival of this opportunity.
The interview was very fast. The top designer was a strong man. People could hardly believe that such elegant, splendid designs had come from him.
The models from the Plaster Flag Nation began to audition. With a strange smile on his face, the designer said only two words when they finished, "Short legs!"
It was like a sword through their chests. Such a strong personality! After the models from the Pickle Nation finished their show confidently, the man once again said only two words, "Small eyes!"
He dismissed the models angrily. Those two countries are shameless! Qin Guan read through the material, looking for the subject of the opening show. It was cheongsams and Han costumes, the background of the brand founder. Suddenly, he understood.
The founder had been born in Northeastern China. The concept of the show was to honor the memory of traditional Chinese culture. Models who were unclear on those boundaries and history did not qualify for the show. The designer seemed to be a young nationalist.
European and American models were cleverer. They skipped that brand automatically.
It was time for the domestic models to compete on individual abilities. Qin Guan felt strange, as he was the last one to get an interview notice. Actually, he had arrived just in time.
Shao Xiaobing was observing the situation from the corner of the fitting room. This had been his trick. There were lots of models, but once the designer selected the right model, the others would have to leave without auditioning.
The whole domestic modeling circle would be participating in the event. There would be 36 male models and 36 female models in the opening show. It was the traditional Chinese concept of six multiplied by six, which was supposed to maintain harmony. More and more models got an offer after the interview. Qin Guan's chances were getting smaller.
The designer was tired. He counted the models that were left. There were still three vacancies, but the models waiting outside were more than ten. Compared to the female models, the domestic male models were a lot less, and their figures differed a lot.
The designer didn't want to waste any time on inferior models. He asked his assistant to move all the sundries out of the hall and invite all the waiting models inside.
After all the candidates had formed a line, he said concisely, "Anyone shorter than one hundred and eighty-six centimeters, out!"
Several annoyed models left.
The designer pointed at two guys in the line. "You and you, wrong height. Out!"
Good sight! One of them had been 185 centimeters and the other one had been wearing a pair of padded shoes.
Than he glanced at the models' legs. "You, you and you, out!" No reason. He just didn't want models with short legs.
"You and you, out!"
Five more models had been weeded out. There were only four models left in the studio.
The designer massaged his eyes as he examined them. He pointed at Qin Guan and said, "Leave your resume and get the timetable from there."
Is that all? Did he get an offer just like that? Shao Xiaobing frowned. It took me about 20 minutes to pass the interview, and I used my connections to get on the show. How could Qin Guan pass so easily? Does the designer think he's picking Chinese cabbages in a street market? He didn't even ask him to perform!
Actually, the designer hadn't skipped the performance. He'd fixed his eyes on Qin Guan as soon as he'd entered the room.
The model had an elegant walk, an attractive figure, a sophisticated style, and a handsome face. He would be the prince in the yellow gown! An interview would be unnecessary. The designer was adamant.
Qin Guan was glad. He had won his first battle.
Sister Xue was enjoying a cup of iced coffee at the outdoor coffee stand. Qin Guan handed her the first notice under the admiring gazes of the other agents.
Then he went to audition for his second brand. It was a brand from Singapore, and a group of models from the Plaster Flag Nation and the Pickle Nation had already filled all the vacancies.
The designer felt deeply sorry for missing out on such a good model. Qin Guan got a business card from him before he left gloomily.
When he got back to the square, Piao and Xiaoquan's models smiled at him subtly.
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Chapter 162: John's Promotion
Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia
F*ck! Those sons of bitches! Are you challenging me? This is my home court!
You are wrong Qin Guan. Models depend on their ability, not nationality. Look! Those domestic male models are taking advantage of this to seize opportunities. Wake up!
Qin Guan watched domestic models pour out of a sports brand's office, which he'd originally planned to audition for. He felt disappointed with the cold-blooded world.
If you all see me as an imaginary enemy, I'll show you who I am!
He showed them his middle finger. Just wait and see, you sons of bitches! Then he rushed to the Cabben studio, which was the most important brand during the closing ceremony.
Cabben came from Hong Kong, and it was actually the name of a famous designer. As a spokesperson for original domestic brands, the brand insisted on the concept of overturning fashion trends. It was famous for its fine lines and the development of materials in Asia, so its first choice were models from the Pickle Nation.
No one expected Qin Guan to audition for the last show in advance. Surely, this didn't mean that the shameless guy had given up on his original plan?
They were only half-right. Suppressed by so many opponents, Qin Guan had decided to set a new path. He knocked on the door of the Cabben studio. Sure enough, the other models were all auditioning for the first group of shows.
There were very few candidates in the Cabben studio. The designer's eyes lit up as soon as Qin Guan entered.
He was even more satisfied with him after reading his resume. Confidently, Qin Guan made a simple self-introduction. By then, the models of the Pickle Nation had followed him into the room.
Brands always had the same character as their designers. Te-Tiger was bold and generous, and Cabben was weird and delicate. The crowd made the designer angry. He asked his assistant to lead everyone out. He had to rub his eyes before looking at the fake models outside.
After the designer's screams, Qin Guan finished his solo show leisurely. He passed the audition without any suspense.
The rest of the models had failed every single audition except for the audition of an indifferent brand.
Before going to another audition, they saw Qin Guan hugging warmly the designer of LEE, who John had introduced him to.
There was no hope. The guy had been gifted with both good looks and public relations.
Qin Guan had a nice meeting with many designers and discussed their concepts (thanks to Professor Li's lessons). The others were taking their interviews one at a time.
Qin Guan got offers from LEE, B+by, GIOIAPAN, Luomeng, Aimer underwear, VLOV and BRJ.
He only spent a little over an hour on the interviews, although they might have taken others a week. He finished his work in the fashion salon.
Sister Xue was over the moon. If it were not for his tight schedule, she would have asked Qin Guan to take shows till the last day of his life.
One show for each day. That was enough for Qin Guan. Sister Xue turned down his suggestion to participate in more shows.
"You are a public figure now. There will be media at the Fashion Week. If you perform in an inferior show, you will be sneered at by the reporters."
On their way back, Qin Guans' ears were filled with her rebuke. Sister Xue came back with fruitful results. She had gotten a pile of business cards from designers, which would be a valuable resource for Qin Guan's development.
Qin Guan wasn't thinking about the same thing. His and Cong Nianwei's home and Cong Nianwei's birthday filled his mind.
He had to buy a TV, an air conditioner, a computer and other things, which would be a large expense. He also had to buy a birthday present for his girlfriend. Without any new income, he would be a pauper.
He bid Sister Xue farewell hurriedly and drove to QH to pick up Cong Nianwei. They had decided that she would temporarily live at their home for the summer holidays. He had to be hospitable so that she wouldn't change her mind.
Qin Guan thought this was the happiest day of his life. He slept in in the morning and found breakfast on the table. Cong Nianwei had prepared it for him before leaving.
With a warm feeling in his heart, he bought household electric appliances and furniture to fill their small nest. It was really his home now.
In the evening, they finished their work and watched TV together, sitting with their shoulders touching. That was all. Qin Guan slept in a small bed in the other room. The carpet was too hot for him.
It was August 6th, several days before the Fashion Week. Qin Guan furtively opened his eyes and realized that Cong Nianwei had sneaked out. He jumped out of bed.
It was Cong Nianwei's birthday, so he had to order a cake and buy her gifts.
After making preparations the whole day, Qin Guan finally covered everything with a big cloth in the living room. The key turned in the lock, and Cong Nianwei pushed her way in.
She looked at Qin Guan speechlessly. He had tied a silly blue bow around his neck. She had gotten used to his stupid behaviour by now.
She watched his performance calmly. Qin Guan bowed before her politely before pulling off the cloth.
He revealed a professional designer desk, a complete tool set, a PC, a printer, and a designing software.
Even a calm girl like Cong Nianwei was excited by the sight. She checked all the presents one by one before turning around and asking Qin Guan in confusion, "Is this all for me?"
"Of course, it's for my dearest girlfriend. Don't you see the colorful stickers on the machines?"
"Why are you giving me so many gifts?"
"Why? It's your birthday! These are your birthday gifts from your boyfriend. The one who loves you best!"
"My birthday is on August 8th."
Surprised, Qin Guan looked at Cong Nianwei, who was trying hard to hold her laughter back.
"Impossible! I saw your student ID!"
Cong Nianwei laughed again. "That's why you peeped at my ID? Didn't you notice that I covered a corner with my finger? I was born on August 8th!"
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Chapter 163: Shao Xiaobing's Dirty Trick
Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia
Qin Guan was speechless with his stupid behaviour. Cong Nianwei kissed him on the face.
"That's all right. I'll celebrate my birthday two days in advance. I like your present very much. You are really attentive."
What boy bought such practical presents for his girlfriend? No one! Cong Nianwei liked practical presents. Maybe she was a boy in nature. Qin Guan was an honest boy who could make her feel assured her in the future.
Qin Guan was excited by the kiss she gave him. The more he got, the more he wanted. He begged for more, but Cong Nianwei refused with a red face, "I'm only a teenager. You need to wait several years!"
F*ck! It's your birthday! I even dressed up as a present. He wanted to have some dessert for comfort.
He finally found the birthday cake between the printer and the computer. The box had been crushed. He took out the distorted cake resentfully. I'm the most stupid man in the world! I got the wrong date and I destroyed the cake!
Cong Nianwei smiled. She scraped some light cream with her finger and tasted it. "Wedome? [1] I like it!" Qin Guan had a bite of cake from her hand. It was like a sweet dance of red strawberry and whipped cream. "Happy birthday! I love you."
Night fell. Qin Guan lit several candles, and the young couple watched them burn, their shoulders and heads touching. They wished that time would move more slowly. After many years, they would still recall that moment vividly.
The wheels of time turned, and ordinary life went on. On the next day, Cong Nianwei was busy with work, while Qin Guan had to run for the Fashion Week.
He had to try on outfits, negotiate, rehearse, adjust, check the stage…
He was really tired, but he didn't regret his choice.
He suffered from the alienation of the models from the other two Asian countries and the hard intensity of work.
He would only be a few minutes on the stage, but the preparation was a long, boring process. Sister Xue turned down screen tests for small parts on TV.
Qin Guan had read the scripts. He had no wild dreams for the small screen, but the titles of the plays were still ridiculous.
"Women Soup", "Dangerous Sisters", "Lottery Dream"... What the hell were they even about? Besides, the roles only had one line. It was strange that Qin Guan was famous for period plays, when the plays mentioned were all modern.
They were all evil characters with good looks. Sister Xue also expressed her worry about it. Zhang Chanzong and Yang Lianting had limited Qin Guan's choices, so they had to tread carefully. He had to focus on maintaining his fame, not promoting it.
Qin Guan had not logged in on the internet at all. He had no idea about his fame on the Haijiao Forum. On the other side, he was sneered at on the Goupu Forum, Hanjiao's rival website. The two forums were always in dispute for appealing to different audiences.
The guys on Goupu were annoyed by the silly girls on Haijiao, and they began to photoshop Qin Guan's photos as a joke.
Thanks to their dispute, Qin Guan had also become famous on Goupu. He had become a superstar on the internet by then.
Cyber fame didn't influence him though. He was shocked by the Te-Tiger outfits. The brand is renowned for its traditional Chinese style. Why do I get the imperial robe and mandarin jacket?
The cheongsam of his partner, who was a female model, was beautiful and charming, yet Qin Guan's costume…
Shao Xiaobing put on his gown with a smirk. He calmly caressed his jaw. It was trifle for him to trouble with Qin Guan. He had just told the designer which models would be able to pull off that costume in his opinion. Distinct characteristics sometimes were a double-edged sword.
Work had to be treated seriously and models had no right to question designers. Qin Guan wore a skullcap and attached a coronet braid to the back of his head.
He looked tragic among the other elegant models.
Never mind the beauty of the embroidery or the shine of the imperial yellow. The costume looked really ugly among the costumes of different dynasties.
Foreigners had a different opinion though. At the time, everything about China seemed mysterious to them. Chinese people had inherited countless treasures and inspiration from their history.
The collection shocked the audience. It was scary, but not dangerous. When Qin Guan finished his first show, the designer hugged him excitedly in the backstage area.
Translator's Thoughts
Lan Lan
[1] A famous bakery chain.
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Chapter 164: An Admirer From a Foreign Land
Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia
The costume looked splendid on Qin Guan. It was not overshadowed by the previous or following costumes.
It was the one the designer had been the most worried about, but Qin Guan made it looks new with his figure. The designer kept Qin Guan in his mind. In the following days, Qin Guan performed in several shows smoothly thanks to John's help. After nine days, it was finally time for the closing show.
The night was tender, and the lights were twinkling. Media, businessmen, designers and brand agents from every corner of the world had taken their seats, waiting for the fashion feast to begin.
Qin Guan was speechless before the different groups of models backstage. He handed his luggage to Sister Xue and entered the dressing room first. He was surprised at Cabben's investment in the room.
All the costumes were hanging in the closets, the correspondent shoes under them. The socks and sleeve buttons were also easily accessible.
Why are my shoes not in place? Qin Guan took a pair of Oxfords from the shelf.
"Ouch! What the hell is that?" Qin Guan put his fingers inside the shoes and took out a clip used for pinning clothes. He wouldn't have found it if he didn't make a habit of checking the accessories before changing into his clothes.
If he'd put his foot in, he would have gotten injured. Qin Guan stared at the blood on his fingertip, falling into deep thought.
The perpetrator had to be a member of the staff or a model. There were no cameras in the fitting rooms, so it would be hard to find him.
Qin Guan went out of the fitting room with the shoes and informed Sister Xue of the incident.
It was performing time. As a model, his most important task was the show.
Qin Guan put on short pants, a colorful silk shirt, a round-collar leisure suit, and a curled wig for the reminiscence. He looked like a weird, fashionable guy.
The assistant was listening to Sister Xue's description with a serious expression. He seemed to be getting more and more angry. He had witnessed plenty of secret feuds among models that meant nothing to designers and brands. For them, models were cabbages on shelves in the supermarket. They would pick up the best one and cook it at home.
When the dish was ready, they would either like it or not. The cabbage had already been used anyway. If they poisoned each other before the cabbage was cooked though, the feast would be destroyed. It would be unbearable for the host of the show!
In the resting area, the designer told his staff calmly, "We can't let this go. Make an inquiry. There must be some clues around."
Then he waved at Qin Guan and patted him on the arm. "Are you angry? Can you finish the show?"
"It's fine."
"So what are you waiting for? Go! Go! Go! Put on a good show!"
Confused, Qin Guan was pushed towards the entrance. Fireworks exploded in the sky as a dreamy flare burned by the stage. Cabben models with a rare, wild style walked on the stage in a most unrestrained manner.
The model behind Qin Guan, who was from the Pickle Nation, was watching his light steps. Qin Guan attracted all the attention of the audience and the photographers.
His eyes twinkled as he unconsciously looked at the guest area of the entertainment circle, where his new Chinese friend Shao Xiaobing was sitting.
He knew that after the show, his so-called friendship with Shao would be over. Shao's plan had failed. The small trouble backstage, which usually succeeded, hadn't had any effect on Qin Guan.
Shao would be disappointed with himself and cease any communication with him.
Qin Guan dared not think about that problem. He refused to think about Shao Xiaobing sitting under the stage, staring calmly at him. Qin Guan turned around to return backstage. He looked as hot and bright as a burning torch on the T stage.
Shao glanced at the model behind Qin Guan with shining eyes before he looked down indifferently.
I shouldn't have placed my hopes on the idiot from the Pickle Nation.
He left silently before the end of the show. No one noticed him, as their attention was on the performance.
If I get a chance, I'll still suppress him. His position is almost the same as mine.
The models clustered around the chief designer of Cabben, whose appearance brought the audience to its feet in applause. The show ended, leaving all the staff and models changing clothes in noisy disorder.
During the quiet after the show, there was a serious stalemate. Several models from the Pickle Nation and Qin Guan had stayed behind at the office of the designer. They were all looking at each other.
The designer spoke first. "Tell me, why?"
Qin Guan was curious himself. I know I must have caused public outrage by passing too many auditions, but better models should make more money. It's reasonable. Those kind of tricks are disgusting.
Qin Guan hadn't thought that they would play such a dirty trick on a local model in a foreign country. They had overestimated their power though. At the beginning, Qin Guan had thought the trick had been a Plaster Flag Nation model's job. There were too many similar plots in their comics on school bullies. A blade in a shoe sole was a classic prank. (Although he'd only read the comics, that was what real life was like in that country.)
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Chapter 165: Huang Jiajia's Confession
Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia
Only a secret admirer would commit such a foolish crime. Qin Guan's companions looked at each other in confusion.
"I don't want to say any more. You can go, Qin Guan."
Qin Guan and Sister Xue left conscientiously. Considering that there hadn't been any real injury, that was the best they could expect.
They had acknowledged the existence of a criminal and left it up to Cabben to catch him. It was time to call it a day.
They drove quietly on the way back. Without a detective on site, that was the best result they could have hoped for. At least they would be more vigilant in the future.
The model from the Pickle Nation would be on Cabben's black list from that day on, which was no trifling matter.
People had to pay for their stupid behavior, but clever men escaped unscathed.
Qin Guan returned home and put on his favorite colorful shorts. He took out a beer out of the fridge and drank it. Cong Nianwei was asleep in the bedroom. In the living room, the TV was broadcasting boring TV shows on mute. Qin Guan had been busy the whole summer, so he'd missed the European Cup.
Fortunately, I didn't miss her. All his anger and pressure dissipated at the sight of Cong Nianwei's back.
On the desk, several blueprints were rustling in the breeze. After a hard day, Qin Guan fell asleep on the couch.
Cong Nianwei was woken up by his heavy breathing. She went to the living room and covered him gently with a blanket.
"Sweet dreams!"
It was a dreamless night.
As the saying went, no pain, no gain. As juniors, Qin Guan and Wang Lei finally had some kind of routine. They wouldn't be cheated by Ye Dong though. Ye had become Vice Chairman and an honorable CCP member during the new semester.
Qin Guan couldn't help but annoy his classmates by getting the top college scholarship, but his roommates didn't care about that. Without any family education courses, Qin Guan felt relaxed. He could finally calm down and find a good job in his spare time.
While he was explaining his splendid future plans to Wang Lei with his new textbooks in hand, a girl called him from behind, "Senior Qin!"
It was Mou Xiaoliu. Qin Guan turned around and saw Huang Jiajia next to her. After enrolling at college, Huang Jiajia had found herself again, and her mother had come to appreciate the spoiled fashionista that she was.
Qin Guan gestured at Huang Jiajia to stop her from rushing up to him. He asked Mou instead, "Why are you two together?"
"She has enrolled at our college."
"What? That's impossible with her score!"
"Many ways lead to Rome. I could have a specialty or a sponsor. Who cares?"
Qin Guan waved at Wang Lei, who was watching the scene happily. He handed his books to him and said, "It's nothing. She's just my student. Go! I'll explain later."
Then he turned to Huang Jiajia. Before he could say anything, Hang Jiajia beat him to it. "I'm your schoolmate now, I'm no longer your student. I like you and I'll chase you!"
Mou was stunned. Why had Huang Jiajia confessed so suddenly? Wang Lei stumbled on a stone not far away and ran away in a hurry. (He had definitely been eavesdropping.)
Annoyed, Qin Guan told Mou, "I want have a private word with her." Mou left as soon as possible.
Qin Guan led the smiling Huang Jiajia to a pavilion nearby.
"Huang Jiajia, I have a girlfriend."
"I know, I've met her. So what? No one can predict the future."
"Listen to me. Frankly, we are just teacher and student. Nothing else. You might be in the same college as me now, but you will always be like a little sister to me, no matter how many years pass."
"But..."
"Huang Jiajia, I don't like ambiguous emotions. You had never made a clear confession like this, so I couldn't say anything." (Actually, it's a little cruel to treat a girl like this.)
"But... I really like you." Tears filled Huang Jiajia's eyes.
"I appreciate your feelings, but I'm only a tough guy with good looks. It would be irresponsible of me if I reciprocated your love. I'm not good at nice words or delicate rejections. I'm sorry."
"What if you broke up with your girlfriend?" Huang Jiajia was unwilling to give up.
Closing his eyes, Qin Guan tried to imagine Cong Nianwei leaving him. He felt pain in his heart.
Taking a deep breath, he opened eyes again. "No, never! I love her. If she wants to leave me though, I'll give her my most sincere blessing."
Huang Jiajia burst into tears. Her budding blossom of love, which had been waiting to burst open, withered. She cried her broken heart out. Tears poured from her eyes, ruining her makeup, but Qin Guan didn't think she looked ridiculous.
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Chapter 166: Job Hunting
Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia
Qin Guan just felt sorry for her. He scratched his head helplessly and caught sight of Mou Xiaoliu, who was standing by the grove.
Seeing her as his savior, he walked up to her happily.
Mou's face was also covered in tears though. She wasn't crying loudly like Huang Jiajia. She was just sobbing silently.
Qin Guan lost his head. What was going on? Why were girls crying everywhere? Having no idea where to place his hands, he put them in the pockets of his pants and asked Mou in his most gentle voice, "Could you take care of Huang Jiajia for me? I have to go."
Mou fixed her eyes on the handsome boy and then closed them to prevent tears from sliding out. She nodded slightly.
Qin Guan breathed out, as if he had been relieved of a heavy load. He ran away as quickly as possible, as if a dog was chasing after him. F*ck! If I stay here, I'll be drowned in women's tears. Why is Mou crying too? It's very strange.
Mou and Huang Jiajia sat facing each other silently.
"Will you give up?"
Huang Jiajia wiped her tears from her face with her arm. "Never! He will regret it one day!" Her tone was half-angry, half-affectionate.
The setting sun cast its last wisp of sunlight on the girls, who were comforting each other. The night fell, but their own sun would rise soon.
Qin Guan turned over in his bed at night. He wanted to call Cong Nianwei, but he didn't. He had no outlet for his emotions.
Who could I talk to about this matter? To my girlfriend? She would blame me for flirting with other girls. To my roommates? They would think I'm showing off. To my best friends from high school? Those two dare not even speak to girls! I'm too handsome to have friends!
Handsome guys still needed food though, so Qin Guan was planning on spending all his spare time on establishing his career. He was about to get down to business.
He did not want to work as a promotion specialist or a vendor, as one might have imagined. Considering his professional certificates, Qin Guan wanted to get a formal job. Even a part-time, unpaid position would do.
Unfortunately, reality was cruel. In 2000, job hunting websites such as 61job and China Talents had just been launched and did not have adequate resources.
They did not offer many full-time jobs, let alone part-time jobs. Besides, Qin Guan had to pick out the scammers from the heavy, complicated database.
After two days of endless interviews, Qin Guan discovered that four out of five companies recruiting part-time employers were not reliable. They either asked for a guarantee deposit or an agency fee.
Finally, Qin Guan gave up on the websites. His four older friends' companies were not looking for part-time employees either. Plus, Qin Guan didn't have a diploma yet.
His only choice was to beg an acquaintance. As an adult with two lives under his belt, Qin Guan preferred to rely on himself. That autumn, he put on his white shirt, black suit pants and cross-body bag and welcomed the new interviewing season.
The Lama Temple Talent Market and the Job Fair at the National Exhibition Center were very crowded. There were helpless people everywhere. Among the lines of cabinets, the ones sitting behind the tables would be the first one would have to pass on their way to a career.
Qin Guan squeezed in and out of the crowd, only to find that no company was in need of part-time employees. Without a diploma, Qin Guan could only get a cleaning or public security job.
Actually, he did not even qualify for public security, as that required a diploma from a technical school. There were also additional terms, and relative experience and former soldiers were preferred.
Was there no job for him at the talent market? Who said that skill prevailed? Without a diploma as a stepping stone to success, how could he get through the door?
His only choice was to clean buildings.
Just as the description implied, the job was a joke among promotion specialists.
Promotion specialists would try their best to get into an office building despite the strict guards at the entrance. They just wouldn't give up. They would leave no stone unturned until they met the director of every company. They had to at least meet with a manager to promote their products.
Qin Guan had to do that to promote himself.
The strict entrance guard was nothing for him.
The Motorola Building at the International Trade Centre welcomed the most handsome visitors. Before the security staff could ask him to register, Qin Guan pointed at the reception. "I'm waiting for my sister."
The guard gestured, inviting him in.
The second passpoint was the reception hall.
Qin Guan walked up to the reception leisurely. The girls behind it were looking at him admiringly. One of them recognized him, recalling the latest issue of ELLE magazine.
She stood up excitedly as Qin Guan spoke naturally.
"Hey, ladies, let me check..." Qin Guan glanced at the chart behind them quickly. "Which elevator should I take to reach the Technical Department on the sixth floor?"
The two girls were dazzled by his smile. They pointed to an elevator on the left.
"That one."
Qin Guan passed safely again.
By the time he entered the elevator, the two girls realized they should have asked for an autograph or a photo. "I could show off to my friends at dinner!"
"Me too! I could post the photos on the Goupu Forum and show off to the women on the Haijiao Forum. They pretend to be sophisticated, but it's me who got a real life photo of my idol!"
"No wonder he's so highly appraised on Haijiao. It's the first time I see someone look more beautiful in real life than in pictures. Those inferior photos people upload are an insult to his beauty."
"What's his real name though? I only know that he played Zhang Changzhong."
"I don't know either. I have only seen his magazines and advertisements."
That was awkward!
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Chapter 167: Past Life Acquaintance
Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia
The third passpoint was the reception of each company.
Qin Guan had gone through the first and second passpoint, but the third one was the most difficult. He had to choose the right company first. Large-scale private enterprises and foreign companies were out of the question, as they wouldn't choose a college student as a part-time accountant, even if he didn't ask for payment. They were too afraid to open their doors to stranger.
Therefore, Qin Guan excluded those companies and picked a machinery agency as his first choice.
This had been his profession in his past life, so he knew it well and could manage it easily. He had just switched from a technical advisor post to an accountant post, which would grant him more advantages.
He made an excited speech to the girl at the reception, making sure to mention machinery development history, the concepts of upper agencies, the perspectives of bidding, and the national focus in the future.
The girl was really attracted to his looks and talent. She called her boss excitedly and described Qin Guan as a genius on Earth.
Zhang Zhenqian was sleeping in his office, his face buried in a book. The call had woken him up. He was curious about the talented young man introduced by his assistant. Where is this god from? Why would he drop in my small temple? My assistant will think I'm a blind villain if I don't hire him. I'm free, so I might as well see him!
Qin Guan had succeeded in passing though the third passpoint.
The girls of the company hurried to serve him. They carried chairs in and took water to the office. Finally, the strongest girl led Qin Guan into the boss' office.
Qin Guan was chilled by her sweet voice as she said, "Follow me." The two of them entered the office.
Before leaving, she didn't forget to cast a soft glance at Qin Guan.
He tried to calm down before he knocked on the door.
"Come in, please."
Qin Guan pushed in when he heard the voice.
"It's you? Zhang Zhenqian?" Qin Guan was really surprised.
"You know me? Impossible!" Zhang Zhenqian had no recollection of Qin Guan. If he'd met such a handsome guy, he would have remembered him.
Qin Guan was shocked to see him. Time stood still in that moment. Zhang was younger than the man he had met in his past life by ten years. He hadn't gone through the hardships of life yet.
In Qin Guan's past life, they had felt like old friends when they'd first met during a business bidding conference. From then on, they had worked in collusion with each other to cheat Qin Guan's company. Whenever Qin Guan had gotten a secret order, he had taken products from Zhang and taken advantage of his position to share small parts of a big program with him.
Thanks to their mutual exchange, they had led a happy life. Once, after getting drunk, Zhang had told Qin Guan about his arduous history of entrepreneurship.
It was wonderful to see his old friend look so good.
Qin Guan came back to his senses and realized Zhang was still waiting for an answer. He smiled happily. "Do you know Bu Qinglu?"
Zhang nodded. "Yes, do you know him? Did he recommend me? Impossible! I'm here only for a few days. I didn't tell anyone."
"No, he told me about you in a conversation. He said you were famous in the Chaoyang District. He described your golden chains, tiger tattoo, bare head, and the scar on the corner of your eye. You are exactly as Brother Bu told me. That's why your name escaped my lips."
Zhang looked down at the golden chains hanging over the tiger tattoo on his chest. He touched his bare head and smiled proudly. "Ha, I'm famous. Bu is really loyal to me."
Qin Guan covered up his mistake, smiling to himself. Zhang is the same careless man. He still believes everyone.
"Tell me, what can I do for you? Bu's friends are my friends too."
"I'm looking for a job."
Qin Guan made a detailed introduction of his status. The bald man turned out to be quite shrewd in business.
"If you need my help, no problem. I'll do my best to help you. If you want to work in my company though, it might be awkward. To tell you the truth, one accountant is enough for a small company. I only founded my company three months ago, and I have no business yet. Do you want to learn here? Personally, I think you should ask Bu first. He must be crazy, as he started a business with Wang Hailiang. According to my understanding, the two of them won't employ an accountant. You could ask them yourself though. If they refuse, you can always return here. You're welcome to come chat with me again."
Qin Guan saw hope in his future. He shook hands with Zhang and said goodbye. "I'll go find Bu. Would you like to have a drink someday?"
"Why not? Leave me your number." Zhang was fond of straightforward guys. Just like that, they became friends again.
Qin Guan left the Motorola Building and headed for the Lama Temple without stopping. He found Bu and Wang in a shop by the street, smoking and playing cards.
The three of them looked at each other for a minute. Then Wang ran up to Qin Guan with open arms.
They hadn't seen each other since the battle on Gui Street, but they had kept in touch through the phone. Qin Guan had been too busy with work and had always refused their gratitude.
Wang was excited to see him again though. Words cannot express my gratitude. You saved my life, brother.
When Qin Guan made his purpose for meeting them clear, Wang agreed without any hesitation. Patting his chest, Bu nodded repeatedly. He suggested taking Qin Guan to the office so he could get familiar with it. He also wanted to introduce him to the rest of the staff.
Qin Guan followed them to a one-storey building in Hutong with a serious expression. He saw a big handmade sign on the roof, supported by a tripod.
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Chapter 168: In the Bandits' Nest
Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia
There were four large characters written in fresh paint on the sign. They read "Amazing Foot Massage Room".
Qin Guan watched the bustle awkwardly. "New business?"
"No, it's been here for half a year. My bros said the place was too difficult for customers to find though, so I made a showy sign."
Looking at the dazzling characters, Qin Guan said carefully, "Could we change the name? How about 'Amazing Pedicure'?"
Wang Hailing turned the name over in his mind. It sure sounds better! Educated guys are really intelligent! "Change the sign! Make it 'Amazing Pedicure'!" he shouted at the labor workers.
Then he waved dramatically to a group of people nearby. Three of them walked over.
"This guy is the manager of the foot massage room, that one manages the hair-washing room, and the third one is in charge of the mahjong room." He pushed Qin Guan towards them as he introduced them. "This is the accountant of our company. Greet each other!"
"When did we found a company, Brother Wang?"
"Just now. Stop that rubbish! Listen to me. You will hand over the accounts to Accountant Qin. Every week he will come over to check the records. Understand?"
"No problem! We'd appreciate your help, Accountant Qin!" They all greeted Qin Guan before walking away.
Qin Guan was speechless. "It's only three businesses?" he asked.
Are you kidding? You rely on those three guys to keep the books? They'd stick the money in the drawer in no time. Keeping books would be no more than handing in the profits on the weekend. And if there's any extra expenses, they'd just get the bosses to approve of them. Qin Guan couldn't do much, even if he laid groundwork as a cashier.
"Of course not! That'd be just a piece of cake for us. Come here! Open your eyes!"
Bu and Wang led Qin Guan towards a six-storey building across the street. There was a giant neon sign on top of it. Qin Guan went nearly blind as he saw the "Fruit & Candy" sign.
What a crazy world! The huge KTV club, which had been famous for decades in the capital, was their business?
Qin Guan was shocked by the news.
Confused and disoriented, he followed Bu and Wang. They pushed the glass revolving door and entered the clean reception hall.
There were luxurious leather couches, Spanish style glass tea tables, and French spiral staircases. There were also three elevators on both sides of the hall for the laziest customers.
On the fifth floor, there were completely enclosed stores. Half of the space on the third floor was occupied by supermarkets and restaurants, and there were private smaller stores on the second floor. The whole club promoted humanity and comfort.
Of course, you could also get entertainment services there. The girls behind the bar counter on the third floor were happy to sing a song for generous guests or have a drink with them.
Bu Qinlu looked satisfied with Qin Guan's expression. He seemed like a peasant in a metropolis. Every visitor was shocked by the huge club and its unreliable owners.
On the cashier desk on the second floor, Qin Guan checked their cashier system and the scale of the supermarket. The software was quite advanced and could be logged in to the internet easily.
Qin Guan was stunned by the pile of account books in their office though. Is the computer on the desk just for decoration? Are the report forms in the software just for amusement? Has that notebook with lines of twisted characters been your account book for the past several months?
The two men's daily book-keeping was as follows.
Date: XXXXX
Earnings: XXXX yuan
Expenses: XXXXX yuan
That was all.
Qin Guan massaged his head before asking, "How much have you invested in the club?"
"No idea. Our bros gathered the money and we borrowed some more from others."
Qin Guan continued to massage his hurting temples. "I need all the documents and details of the investment, or I'll have no idea when you'll get your capital back! If you can cope with the Industrial and Commercial Bureau and the Tax Administration Office with such a notebook, your duty will be to copy it in the same way. As for me, I'll make a detailed account in the simplest and clearest manner. You aso need to grant me a large sum of money so I can create the account."
"Of course, I'll give you an allowance every month. Better keep the invoices for me when you make purchases outside though."
"That's it for today. I have to read the notebook. We'll discuss the details in the future."
"You must know that the club still can't make ends meet. You have to be careful with what you spend."
"What? We're losing money?" Wang shouted. "Ever since we opened the business, profits have been pouring in from all sides. Every night the stores are full of customers. How can we be losing money? "
Qin Guan was speechless. Your business was founded with borrowed money. You are in debt!
Bu was cleverer than Wang though. He poked at Wang's back before telling Qin Guan, "We're not familiar with such affairs. You just make the accounts gradually. You'll come here once a week. We'll be in charge of public relations, and you'll focus on the book-keeping. 450 yuan a week. We'll be counting on you."
Qin Guan returned to his dormitory with a large bag of paperwork. Those two cheaters! They were flattering me. I caused trouble to myself!
That's when Qin Guan's miserable days began.
"No, no, no! The accounts of those three small shops can't be in the general ledger!"
"Brother Bu, why is the girls' income recorded separately? Fine, tell me how you divided the accounts then! According to your interests? Are you kidding? Are large boobs your only interest? Large butts are no reason to make an exception either!"
"Okay, Lily has a big butt. Her salary will be on your account!"
"Why would you put that in my account? Okay, okay!"
"Shall we deposit the profits in the bank? In a safe? What the hell is that?"
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Chapter 169: A Warm and Quiet Life
Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia
From then on, Qin Guan was in endless trouble. People who lay down with dogs woke up with fleas. Being around unreliable people made him seem like a bandit himself, which made the graceful Teacher Rong extremely dissatisfied.
She hit Qin Guan's legs and arms with a thin rubber stick.
"It's only been a few days, and you already look like a Hutong idler. Behave yourself! Sit straight and stand still! Where is your elegance? You are not a very good student. Real grace is in a person's very core. Behavior reflects one's spirit. You're either noble or vulgar. Nobility maintains one's countenance even when they fall down."
Qin Guan felt a chill as he imagined those two guys being taught by Teacher Rong.
That day, Qin Guan began his lyre-playing, chess, calligraphy and painting courses. They were all supposed to help his consistent good behavior.
Actually, Qin Guan had been reading cursorily about all these skills except for painting.
He could play Chinese chess, Chinese checkers, five-in-a-row, aeroplane Chess and military chess. Teacher Rong engaged in I-go though. She made a cross on Qin Guan's papers.
If his ancestors knew that Qin Guan considered writing with a pen calligraphy, they would have laughed their heads off. Qin Guan couldn't talk about a hard-tip pen to Teacher Rong for fear that she would make fun of him forever.
He had also considered playing the harmonica at primary school music class the same as Iyre-playing, which was even more absurd.
Wonderful! Now he had to spend all his spare time at Teacher Rong's house.
Time flew by. Busy people always felt that days speeded by. In October, the TV play "The Legendary Swordsman" finished its final editing, but it was just a simple page in Qin Guan's busy life. He turned that page easily. Qin Guan refused all other small parts in TV shows and films.
John kept sending him emails from the other side of the ocean. He sent him four emails a month. He would occasionally share interesting fashion news and trends from Europe and the US.
As Qin's best foreign friend (which was what he called himself), he was preparing Qin Guan for the frontline of the fashion industry.
Actually, Qin Guan wanted to tell him that no Chinese model could get a work visa.
There were more shows and opportunities overseas though, and many Chinese models would work abroad illegally with tourist visas. If they were invited to release conferences of top brands, their social status soared when they returned to China.
Long after the Capital Fashion Week, Cabben sent a notice to Sister Xue about the accident backstage. They also invited Qin Guan to their next show in China.
It was a compensation in disguise, which they would both benefit from.
The nine brands of the Fashion Week had all become long-term clients of Sister Xue's. Qin Guan turned down several offers in other provinces and focused on Beijing.
The KTV club was flourishing.
The two tough guys knew it would take them at least two years to get their capital back.
The three small shops were phenomenally profitable though, which aroused Qin Guan's desire to make money that way.
The "Daming Palace", which he had become famous for, had been replaced by the hit show "Legend of Dagger Lee". Similarly, the leading actor's classic hairstyle and handsome looks had attracted another group of crazy girls.
Fans were always forgetful. Except for some loyal fans stuck on Qin Guan, most girls had been attracted by the charming, dagger-wielding man.
Qin Guan seldom showed his face, except during shows. His harvest those six months were Teacher Rong's lessons and his full pockets.
In the past, Qin Guan had only been interested in his figure, not his spirit. After being trained by the good tutor though, he had changed a lot.
People always said that nobility could be cultivated in three generations, but Qin Guan was absorbing manners that should have been fostered in childhood.
He had become a gentleman by then. His movements had become as elegant as paintings, and there was a lingering charm in his gestures and expressions.
Cong Nianwei's reflection was the best encouragement for him. When they stayed alone, she would get lost in thought as she looked at her educated boyfriend.
The memory of how he used to be was vague. He was getting more and more shining in time, and she was drowning in his spoiling love. A smile was on her face. She hoped those days would never end.
By the time Qin Guan was done with all his private affairs, 2000 had nearly ended. The new year would begin soon.
The decorations for his new house in the capital had been finished, but there would be a model gala soon, so Qin Guan could not return to his hometown for the Spring Festival. His parents decided to celebrate the Spring Festival with their son in Beijing instead and see the new house.
Qin Guan picked them up in his car, which surprised them even more.
They were both conservative people, and they saw their son on TV and the fortune his modelling jobs had earned him.
They were worried that Qin Guan would be lured by the entertainment circle and abandon his profession.
For people their age, flowers blooming in the entertainment circle were like passing clouds. Their son might be handsome for some years, but that kind of success was like rootless duckweed. It had no solid foundation.
Getting a steady job was more important, even if the salary was not as high as it was in the entertainment circle. That kind of career choice would reassure them.
They felt relieved when Qin Guan told them about the certificates and his part-time job as an accountant. Our son is a dependable young man. He really is our child.
Their mentality was not quite the same though.
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Chapter 170: Farce at the Annual Gala
Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia
When Qin Guan's parents arrived, he showed them the supermarkets, vegetable markets and parks nearby. He had some work to do before the Spring Festival, but they could do anything they liked.
However, he soon realized it was impossible for them to go somewhere together because of their different interests. His father liked a quiet life, while his mother preferred sports.
Qin Guan smartly retreated before their two different timetables. It was a confrontation between two immortals.
He also had to attend the annual New Silk Road gala in formal attire. It was a bonus for models. If one's status was upgraded, there were many sponsors for outfits of their choice.
To express their appreciation for the contribution of the staff to the company, New Silk Road would hold a gala before the Spring Festival.
All the office staff, models, brand representatives, media directors and other contributors were invited to the feast.
Although Qin Guan was an affiliated model, he had brought great brand influence and profits to the company with his outstanding performance, so he had been invited.
The gala was held in a chateau close to the airport road, which had been a creative idea. If not for the desolate winter, it would have been even more beautiful there.
The drinks were free, which was considered a plus by most people.
The atmosphere was quite relaxed, and the emcee and performers were all company staff. Which part did they like best?
The lottery and the boss's performance, of course. At least there was a big buffet.
As a money-grubber, Qin Guan focused on the rewards of the annual gala. When the happy performance ended, the emcee announced the prize winners.
Qin Guan was surprised to hear his own name. It was great luck for an affiliated model, who was basically a nobody to all the staff.
"The prize winner for Best Newcomer is Qin Guan!"
Qin Guan mounted the stage leisurely, only to realize that the emcee was Ouyang Fen. Qin Guan hadn't recognized him under that heavy powder.
Ouyang watched Qin Guan with an evil intention. He handed him his bonus before telling the audience, "We'd like to thank Qin Guan for his contribution to our company. Under normal circumstances, the prize winner would give a formulaic speech, but we have a surprise for you all. We didn't inform the winners in advance, so they did not come prepared. Our boss wanted to give them the greatest surprise."
"The annual newcomer winner is the best among all the models who started working during the same period, without exception. Look at the delicious boy next to me!"
"Meanwhile, they are also performance pacesetters with exceptional professional ability. Those models can adjust their mentality to any emergency in order to do their job."
"Our surprise for you today is an impromptu performance from our winner. He will dance to background music. If you like his dance, you can buy flowers for him, like people did during the election of the best lorette in ancient times. Of course, I'm not implying that our winner is a whore."
The audience applauded happily.
Ouyang Fen waved to Miss Etiquette, who carried the flower baskets to the stage. There were fresh flowers blooming in them. One cost ten yuan. There was also a small money box nearby.
The attendants seemed excited.
Qin Guan finally realized he was being used. No one had informed him of this, including his agent, who seemed like the happiest person under the stage.
Sister Xue looked excited. It was a bonus after all. There would be hundreds of flowers in the baskets. If Qin Guan did well on the stage, they would get more money!
Ouyang asked Qin Guan, "Are you ready? We expect a surprise from our winner!"
The DJ pressed a button and music started playing.
"The eighth exercise has begun!" [1]
Qin Guan nearly fell down on the stage. Were they kidding? The audience was laughing.
"Ha ha ha! It sure deserves to be called New Silk Road. That's so creative! It's better than singing or dancing!"
"I wonder if the winner can do exercises well. Ha ha!"
Qin Guan had no choice but to do exercises to the music. Fortunately, he hadn't forgotten the basic movements. His pants were tight on his legs, which made him look sexy to the ladies.
He pulled a red silk scarf from Ouyang's pocket and replaced it with his tie.
Then he saluted the audience like a Young Pioneer. The girls cried out under the stage. Several of them bought bouquets and threw them towards the stage.
Sister Xue glanced at the flowers and counted in her mind. The moneymaking begins!
Suddenly, the music changed to the Yangge of Northeastern China. Ouch! I twisted my waist!
Qin Guan looked to his right and saw Ouyang Fen smiling at him. Qin Guan was ready to risk everything. He took off the red scarf and danced, using it as a handkerchief.
"Ha ha ha..."
The audience was seething. Qin Guan tried to make faces and look at the audience. Some people spit out the wine in their mouths.
Sister Xue felt awkward. Teacher Rong's training seems effective. He sure is a good actor now.
Translator's Thoughts
Lan Lan
[1] The song was popular among Chinese students in the 1990s.
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