HCB Chapter 93 Graduation and Growth
Chapter 93 Graduation and Growth
Li Shiqing and Liu Yixin stood under the old locust tree on their junior high school campus, sunlight filtering through the leaves and illuminating their young and vibrant faces. The atmosphere of graduation permeated the air, as if every molecule was telling a story of reluctance to part and anticipation for the future.
"Qingqing, what do you think high school life will be like? Will there be super handsome seniors?" Liu Yixin's eyes sparkled with anticipation.
Li Shiqing lightly punched her and said with a laugh, "You, all you care about are handsome guys. But anyway, it's definitely more free than junior high, right? Finally, I can get rid of those endless quizzes."
"That's true, but I really will miss our teacher. Although he's always nagging, he's a really good person." Liu Yixin lowered her head slightly, with a hint of sadness in her voice.
"Alright, it's not like we'll never see each other again. We need to quickly think about our high school plans. I heard that high school courses are really difficult, especially math, physics, and chemistry. I need to start preparing in advance." Li Shiqing said with a serious expression, like a little adult.
"All you care about is studying. I'm going to enjoy my high school life, join all sorts of clubs, and maybe even become a campus star," Liu Yixin said confidently, hands on her hips.
Just then, Liu Qicheng came skipping over, carrying his little schoolbag. He was only in fifth grade, and his face still had a childlike innocence. "Sisters, now that you've graduated, can you play with me?"
Li Shiqing patted his head, "Little Qicheng, your older sisters are going to high school soon, and they'll be even busier. But we'll definitely take you out to play during the holidays."
"Hmph, you're all busy, but I'm the only one with free time." Liu Qicheng pouted, looking dissatisfied.
In the company's spacious and imposing conference room, the atmosphere was slightly heavy, yet tinged with an indescribable anticipation. Li Yuan sat upright on one side of the conference table, opposite her father—the company's former chairman—whose hair was now gray but who remained remarkably energetic.
The old chairman slowly surveyed the executives seated around the conference table, cleared his throat, and said, "Gentlemen, I've gathered you all here today to announce an important decision. I've been in this position for many years, from when I first took over this still somewhat immature company, watching it grow and thrive through trials and tribulations, until it became a towering tree in the industry. And I, too, have gone from an energetic young man to an old man." As he spoke, he chuckled self-deprecatingly and touched his white hair.
“I’ve poured almost all my energy into this place my whole life. Now, I think it’s time to take a good rest and enjoy other pleasures in life. I’ve decided to retire and hand over the chairmanship to my daughter, Li Yuan.” The old chairman turned to Li Yuan, his eyes full of trust and satisfaction.
The executives in the audience weren't too surprised by the news, given Li Yuan's proven performance within the company. Her decisive and efficient work style, sharp business acumen, and keen insight into market changes instilled confidence in them. However, a few veteran employees couldn't help but sigh.
A veteran who had followed the former chairman for many years stood up, his voice trembling slightly, and said, "Chairman, we are truly saddened by your passing. Back then, we fought side by side to build this empire, enduring countless difficult days and nights. However, seeing how outstanding Li Yuan is, we also believe that under her leadership, the company will reach even greater heights."
Li Yuan quickly stood up and said respectfully, "Uncle Zhang, please rest assured. Although I have taken over the position of chairman, I know that I bear not only power, but also responsibility. I will take my father as an example, continue to uphold the company's business philosophy, and work together with everyone to make the company's future even better."
The old chairman looked at this scene with a satisfied smile. He continued, "Li Yuan has been around me since she was a child and is very familiar with the company's business. Moreover, she has her own ideas and drive, and I believe she can bring new vitality to the company. I have also had in-depth discussions with her, and she has a clear and bold plan for the company's future development."
At this moment, the CFO also spoke up: "Chairwoman, we have always adhered to rigorous systems in financial matters. After Chairwoman Li Yuan takes office, we will fully cooperate to ensure proper allocation and management of funds and guarantee the company's financial stability."
"Good, with such capable assistants as you, I feel much more at ease," the old chairman nodded and said.
After the meeting, Li Yuan accompanied her father back to his office. Her father walked to the large wooden chair that had been with him for many years, gently patted the armrest, and said with emotion, "Yuan'er, this chair is yours from now on. While sitting here, you can't afford to be complacent. The business world is like a battlefield; every decision concerns the life or death of the company."
Li Yuan stepped forward, took her father's arm, and said, "Dad, I know. Your years of experience are my greatest asset, and I will make good use of it. You can go on a world tour with Mom and see all the places you've always wanted to go but haven't had the time to visit."
"Haha, yes, your mother and I have already made plans. Our first stop is France, to see the Eiffel Tower and experience the charm of art at the Louvre." The old chairman's face was full of excitement and anticipation when he mentioned the travel plans.
Soon after, the company held a grand and heartwarming retirement ceremony for the former chairman. Flowers adorned the stage, and employees came to say goodbye. The former chairman stood in the center of the stage, delivering his retirement speech. The employees below the stage responded with enthusiastic applause at times, and were sometimes moved to tears. Li Yuan stood to the side, looking at her father with unwavering eyes, silently vowing to make the company shine even brighter under her leadership.
"Mr. Li, these are today's meeting documents and next week's project plan. Please take a look." Secretary Xiao Wu respectfully placed the documents on the table.
Li Yuan casually flipped through the pages and nodded. "Hmm, the arrangements are pretty good. By the way, how are the negotiations with the Zhang Group going?"
"We've reached a preliminary agreement, but they're still hesitant about some details. I'll keep following up," Xiao Wu replied.
“Okay, we must hurry up. This project is very important to our company.” Li Yuan’s eyes were firm.
After getting off work, Li Yuan returned home and saw her husband, Liu Xuan, reading a business magazine in the living room.
"Honey, I have to tell you, my third fruit and vegetable store is opening soon! This time it's bigger and has a wider variety of products," Liu Xuan said excitedly.
"Wow, it seems your fruit and vegetable shop is getting bigger and bigger. Are you going to become the fruit and vegetable king someday?" Li Yuan joked.
"That's hard to say. I'm contributing to our family's health." Liu Xuan smiled and pulled Li Yuan to sit down next to him.
"Oh, right, I have some good news from my brother's side. He and his wife are expecting a baby, and our family is going to have a new member." Li Yuan said with a face full of joy.
"Really? That's wonderful! This is great news!" Liu Xuan also became happy.
Over the weekend, Li Yuan's family and her brother's family gathered for dinner. Li Yuan's brother, Li Yang, wore a look of nervousness and joy on his face as a new father. "Sister, I don't know what to prepare at all. I feel so panicked."
(Note: Li Yuan's younger brother's family also came to their parents' house for a family reunion dinner.)
Li Yuan smiled and comforted him, "What's the rush? I'm here for you. Make sure to prepare the baby's clothes, formula, and crib in advance. Also, you need to spend more time with your wife; she's working the hardest right now."
"I know, sister. I will definitely take good care of her." Li Yang nodded quickly.
Li Shiqing and Liu Yixin were also busy; they participated in the high school's freshman orientation. "Wow, this high school is so big! I feel like I'm going to get lost," Liu Yixin said, looking at the intricate network of roads on campus, somewhat bewildered.
"Don't be afraid, I'm here. Let's find the classrooms and the library first. We can't study without the library in the future." Li Shiqing pulled Liu Yixin and walked towards the teaching building.
On campus, they also met some new classmates. "Hello, my name is Lin Xiao. We'll be alumni from now on, so please take care of me," a girl with a ponytail greeted them warmly.
"Hello, I'm Li Shiqing, and this is Liu Yixin. It's nice to meet you," Li Shiqing replied politely.
"What clubs are you planning to join? I want to join the dance club, I love dancing!" Lin Xiao asked excitedly.
“I might join the literary society; I enjoy writing,” Li Shiqing said.
"Then I'll go to the art club. I want to spread my paintings throughout the entire campus," Liu Yixin announced confidently.
Back home, Li Shiqing shared her exciting high school experiences with her parents. "Mom and Dad, high school is so much fun! There are so many clubs to join, and I've made some new friends."
Li Yuan smiled and said, "Qingqing, you need to plan your high school life well. You need to study hard and participate in more activities to develop your abilities."
"I know, Mom. Don't worry, I definitely won't let you down," Li Shiqing replied obediently.
Liu Xuan chimed in, "By the way, Qingqing, when my fruit and vegetable shop opens, you can bring your classmates to visit. I guarantee all the fruits will be fresh and healthy."
“Okay, Dad, I’ll definitely help you spread the word,” Li Shiqing said with a smile.
In this family, everyone is moving forward on their own life path. Whether it's Li Shiqing and Liu Yixin's upcoming high school life, Li Yuan's new journey at the company, Liu Xuan's expansion of his fruit and vegetable store, or Li Yang's impending arrival of a new life, all are full of hope and infinite possibilities. They are like sailboats, setting sail on the sea of life, bravely forging ahead towards their respective dream shores, and home is that ever-warm harbor, providing them with strength and support no matter how strong the storm.