Chapter 80 - The Pants Incident
Witnessing the man's strong reaction, Chen Yaru found herself momentarily speechless. “If you plan to interact with Elder Sister Yan and her associates in the future, it's important to dress appropriately, don't you think?”
“I don't see anything wrong with my current attire,” Zhang Xiaoloong replied somberly. “Besides, there are twenty thousand sets of clothing. I'll simply leave them at home when I return.”
Chen Yaru chuckled, remarking, “Not every outfit costs over ten thousand. However, the ensemble you're wearing appears overly casual. Those who dine at Elder Sister Yan's establishment hold status. Even if you're just her vegetable supplier, presenting yourself like a roadside vendor undermines Jinshi's reputation.”
Zhang Xiaoloong had no counterargument. Seriousness prevailed this year. Even if one's possessions weren't extravagant, they had to be presented with finesse. Otherwise, regardless of the quality, others would perceive them unfavorably.
Indeed, his attire leaned towards the informal side—garments suited for agricultural labor, complete with mud stains. They wouldn't do justice to Jinshi's image.
Observing his lack of objection, Chen Yaru proceeded with assurance. Instead of heading directly to the clothing store, she facilitated the setup of a bank card for Zhang Xiaoloong and deposited all the money.
Zhang Xiaoloong didn't object. Conducting transactions in cash every time proved cumbersome. Direct money transfers offered convenience.
However, his mood soured when Chen Yaru revisited the mobile phone store.
“Is this really necessary at the moment?” Zhang Xiaoloong queried.
“Absolutely, it's essential,” Chen Yaru affirmed earnestly. “In case Elder Sister Yan requires additional vegetable supplies last minute, how would I reach you? Furthermore, for future expansion, conducting substantial business, you can't remain reclusive. Accessibility is key to seizing opportunities! “
After a moment of contemplation, Zhang Xiaoloong nodded decisively. “You're right. I need to change my perspective. Otherwise, despite earning some income, I'll remain a small-minded farmer. What else do you need? I'll purchase it all. Oh, I recall seeing on TV that one can conduct online business with a computer. If need be, I'll acquire one too! “
Chen Yaru was pleased to witness the receptiveness of her companion.
Although Zhang Xiaoloong was simple, ambitious, and possessed intelligence, he often lacked foresight, seeming somewhat narrow-minded.
This wasn't entirely his fault. Having resided in a remote village for an extended period, altering his mindset abruptly wasn't feasible.
However, this marked the commencement of his transformation. Chen Yaru believed that once he traversed this phase, his career would soar unimpeded, transcending any obstacles.
Consequently, under her guidance, Zhang Xiaoloong separately purchased a laptop and a smartphone.
Despite concurring with the necessity of these acquisitions, Zhang Xiaoloong couldn't help but feel a pang of regret at the combined cost, nearing twenty thousand. He reflected on the swiftness with which his hard-earned money seemed to vanish.
Nevertheless, he recognized this expenditure as a pivotal step forward. To aspire to greater endeavors, he couldn't remain fixated solely on his modest vegetable patch. He needed to envision the potential of the expansive ten-thousand-acre field for substantial progress.
Only the matter of purchasing clothing remained. This time, Zhang Xiaoloong didn't voice objections. Yet, he hesitated when Chen Yaru suggested attires exceeding ten thousand yuan each, resembling formal wear unsuitable for his current station. Such attire would rarely see use.
Thus, they headed to a sportswear brand's store to select a few sets.
The saleswoman approached them without a trace of impatience, despite Zhang Xiaoloong's modest attire.
After a cursory glance, Zhang Xiaoloong nodded approvingly. The sets available seemed reasonably priced, likely below a thousand yuan each—affordable within his budget.
“I find this design appealing!” Chen Yaru suddenly pointed to a particular set.
“Miss has excellent taste. This is our latest couple's sports ensemble this year. If Sir and Miss wear it together, their allure on the streets is guaranteed to double,” the clerk effused.
“Very well, we'll take these two sets,” Chen Yaru decided promptly, perhaps swayed by the clerk's words. She then turned to Zhang Xiaoloong with a suggestive glance, saying, “Would you mind buying me an outfit too?”
Initially, Zhang Xiaoloong would never refuse such a request; he wasn't one to be miserly towards his friends. Moreover, Chen Yaru had been immensely helpful, so reciprocating with a gift felt appropriate.
Yet, the notion of a couple's outfit gave him pause. Would agreeing imply tacit acknowledgment of their relationship?
Unfortunately, Chen Yaru paid no heed to his reservations, proceeding directly to the fitting room with a smile.
Zhang Xiaoloong could only shrug helplessly.
“Sir, fret not. Your companion will look stunning in this attire,” the saleswoman reassured him, assuming his hesitation stemmed from dissatisfaction. “If this isn't to your liking, we have plenty of other couples' outfits. There's bound to be one that suits your preferences.”
“That one's not bad,” Zhang Xiaoloong silently agreed not to wear a matching outfit with Chen Yaru.
Within minutes, Chen Yaru emerged, having changed her attire. Despite her lingering embarrassment and flushed cheeks, she appeared.
Zhang Xiaoloong's eyes brightened. Normally, Chen Yaru exuded a professional air, but in her sportswear, she shed the dignified elegance, emanating a youthful charm that accentuated her beauty.
“What's the matter?” He detected a hint of discomfort in her expression.
“It's nothing,” Chen Yaru replied, embarrassed. She then gestured towards the sales attendant, “The soundproofing in your fitting room isn't great. There are people nearby…”
“Ah…”
Just as she spoke, a soft sound emanated from within, followed by a shuffle.
This time, even the salesgirl blushed, understanding Chen Yaru's implication.
Previously, there had been a viral video featuring a pair of trousers. She hadn't anticipated such an incident occurring in their store.
As she moved to address the situation, a man and a woman emerged from the adjacent fitting room.
The woman possessed allure, a commendable physique, and height. However, she and the man accompanying her didn't quite complement each other. Any attempt at intimacy required awkward contortions.
“Brother Chang Jun, do you recognize that man?” The woman, catching sight of Zhang Xiaoloong, lit up with anticipation, envisioning thrilling interactions with him.
“How could I possibly know someone like that country bumpkin?” Chang Jun retorted, dialing his phone with a cold smirk.
“Kid, if you don't obediently retreat to the countryside, don't expect to leave here so easily!”
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