In the office area, Wang Tai sat alone, his attention fixed on the computer screen, ignoring the noble Yuanshi Tianzun as he headed upstairs.
Hi, Brother Wang Tai, Zhang Yuanqing greeted him silently, then turned toward the Squad Leader's office.
The frosted glass door to the office stood open. Li Dongze sat on the edge of the reception room sofa, one hand braced on his cane, his shoulders broad and swollen, chatting amicably with Teng Yuan.
At the other end, the red-haired girl was bent over the table, diligently doing her homework. Guan Ya sat beside her, guiding her studies, though her expression did not look very good.
"Oh, our great hero is here." Li Dongze looked toward the doorway, and his eyes lit up.
"Squad Leader," Zhang Yuanqing greeted Teng Yuan first, then turned to Li Dongze. "We have a guest today. Hello, Comrade Li."
Li Dongze's expression stiffened. His gaze shifted between Teng Yuan and Yuanshi Tianzun before he forced a smile.
"It seems that while I was away, you successfully won the respect and recognition of the team members. Very good, Teng Yuan. I was worried you'd still be like before, unable to get along with your colleagues."
In his characteristically lifeless tone, Teng Yuan said, "Not really. I only did what I was supposed to do."
"Hm?" Li Dongze voiced his confusion through his nose.
"I merely revised a few rules, increased the meal allowance, distributed the high-temperature subsidy two months early, and abolished pay deductions for lateness."
As Teng Yuan continued his dispassionate explanation, Li Dongze's expression gradually went blank.
"Here, Squad Leader, have some Coke." Zhang Yuanqing handed Teng Yuan a cup of happiness water, adding fuel to the fire.
"Oh my God, this is heresy! This isn't how you lead a team!" Li