Yicheng International Plaza, Tower One.
As the city's premier landmark, it was synonymous with wealth and the elite.
Autumn Forest Group occupied the fifteenth floor.
The elevator doors slid open silently.
A wave of energy greeted him, mingling the aroma of coffee with youthful hormones.
The entire floor had been opened up into a bright, spacious expanse of over thirteen hundred square meters. Industrial-style gray flooring complemented natural wood desks, while touches of greenery brought life to every corner.
Young employees hurried about, their faces brimming with the ambition and vitality unique to startups.
Dressed casually, Chen Lin stood among these sharply suited professionals like a passerby who had wandered onto a film set.
This was his first visit to his own company.
"Hello, sir. Who are you here to see? Do you have an appointment?"
A sweet-looking, capable young woman at reception rose with a smile, displaying impeccable professionalism.
"I'm here to see Song..."
Before Chen Lin could finish, a voice bursting with delight and energy rang out from the glass conference room nearby.
"Chen Lin!"
Qin Chuxia came practically flying out in her high heels. The undisguised elation on her face drew the attention of the entire office.
She rushed to Chen Lin like a gust of wind, glanced at the bewildered receptionist, then puffed out her well-developed chest like a proud little peacock.
She cleared her throat and, in a tone bordering on a proclamation, addressed both the receptionist and every employee watching curiously.
"Everyone, look over here!"
"Allow me to make a very special introduction!"
"This is Autumn Forest Group's largest shareholder, and my... dear Chen Lin!"
"Chen Lin, our Director Chen!"
A collective gasp swept through the room.
Gasps rose throughout the office in an instant.
Every gaze locked onto Chen Lin like iron filings