Early the next morning, Ding Ding put on his tie, pulled the exhausted Little Bai out from under the covers, and urged him to hurry up and wash.
People streamed through the exhibition hall. Other booths displayed company introductions, business card holders, and equipment, but one booth just west of the center was very different: its counter was packed with snacks.
"When people come by later, I'll have to look after the customers. Will you be okay on your own, Little Bai?"
Bai Congming held a pancake to warm his hands, taking tiny bites and occasionally feeding Ding Ding some.
"Yes! Little Bai won't talk!"
Ding Ding took a bite of the pancake and told him to eat faster. It wouldn't taste as good once it went cold.
"You can talk," Ding Ding said with a smile. "You can do whatever you like."
Bai Congming nodded and finished the pancake. When he couldn't find a trash can, he tucked the bag into his pocket.
After checking the swatches and materials one last time, Ding Ding sat down beside Bai Congming, glanced at the time, and waited for customers.
Worried Bai Congming would get bored sitting there, Ding Ding took out his phone and taught him to play a match-three game.
Then, worried the stool was too hard, Ding Ding casually pulled out two pieces of heavy, long-pile fabric to use as a cushion for him.
Bai Congming thought that wasn't right and hurriedly pushed them away.
"Sell for money!"
"They won't sell for much," Ding Ding said, holding him in place. "Just sit on them."
That was the scene Manager Liu from Zixin Textiles found when he arrived at their booth.
"You certainly know how to pamper someone, Mr. Ding," Manager Liu teased. "How about getting me a piece too?"