170 READY TO EXPLODE (1/2)

When Hu Lei entered the Sonata Publishing building, she felt that the atmosphere was not quite right. The receptionist who received her had a cold attitude and looked at her with an obvious sense of dislike. Though it was quite subtle, Hu Lei noticed it immediately.

She mulled about the problem as she was directed to the lounge. This was the first time that she had come to the publishing house. Zhong Feng had not wanted her to strain herself unnecessarily because of her health. Therefore, her dealings with the company were handled by Bo Qian directly.

Therefore, she could not figure out the reason for the cold attitude. As far as she knew, she had not beat up any of the people working in the company or their families. She looked at Beatrice who also showed a sign of displeasure at the receptionist's attitude.

Hu Lei could not help smiling at her fierce expression. It looked like she was about to jump up and demand an apology from the unpleasant woman walking in front of them.

The author's lounge was a tastefully decorated room. It had comfortable couches, posters of some popular books and a collection of books. This space was specially planned to accommodate the authors who came for meetings in the building.

The receptionist coldly snorted as she left the lounge. Another woman entered with a badge that indicated lounge manager. Like the receptionist, she did not have a pleasant attitude. Hu Lei looked at her with interest, and a plan formed in her mind.

”Would you like anything?” She asked carelessly.

Hu Lei smiled a little.

”I would like black tea with freshly squeezed lemon and lime. Half of each, or the entire cup will be ruined. I would hate for you to have to make it again. Add two and a half teaspoons of honey, no more.” She said with the attitude of a queen.

The lounge manager looked displeased with the order, especially because Hu Lei threatened to force her to make it again. However, ultimately, it was her job to entertain guests. She turned to leave the room with almost obvious anger.

”Wait, I have not ordered for my assistant. She has been driving me all morning. She must be parched. Prepare a cup of Earl Grey tea with a splash of milk. Any more than that, it will be completely ruined.” Hu Lei then looked at the woman with a 'go along' stare.

As soon as the woman exited the room, Beatrice looked at Hu Lei in question. Her little eyebrows scrunched up eyebrows betrayed her confusion about the unusual behaviour. She could not understand the plan, or the purpose of the beverages.

”You are much too young, my dear Beatrice.” Hu Lei smiled sneakily. ”For a limited period, I shall take you on as my little apprentice.”

”Apprentice for what?” Beatrice looked confused.

Hu Lei did not respond. After a while, she stood up and walked out of the lounge. Beatrice could only follow with a helpless expression on her face. As she walked behind Hu Lei, she realised that there was something strange about the situation. It took a moment for her to discover what felt off.

It was Hu Lei's walking. The little boss was walking normally with her compact body swaying rhythmically and beautifully. However, there was no sound, not the slightest clacking of her heels against the polished floor. It was almost as if she was floating.

Beatrice could walk silently because she had grown up in a military environment. Her father and brother would force her to train since she was a child. Therefore, she knew how to walk without a sound. However, this could only be accomplished through a combination of factors, including shoes that were not meant to put holes in floors.