Gu Jingchen spoke calmly and gestured with a wave of his hand. The female secretary behind him quickly went out to serve tea.
The entire meeting room fell into three minutes of dead silence, making the leaders from both schools or colleges even more anxious and uneasy. They exchanged glances, and sweat began to form on their palms, with cold sweat dripping down their faces.
"Here's the situation. As the head of the Gu Group, I personally have deep feelings for Yun City University and hold education in high regard. Thus, I look forward to contributing to Yun City's most renowned university and college. Principal Wang, the resources and the Civil Engineering College's teaching building at your university were previously donated by our Gu Group. At that time, we had quite close relations with your institution."
At this moment, the tea was served—premium Longjing tea, made from the finest tender shoots.
Gu Jingchen took a sip of tea elegantly, his pale, slender fingers placing the teacup gently on the table. His deep black eyes radiated sharp perceptiveness as he gazed at the two uneasy men seated opposite him.
"Yes, indeed, the Gu Group's contributions to the development of Yun City University have been undeniably remarkable!"
Principal Wang continued to speak respectfully, clearly trying to curry favor with a laugh.
"Was it that bit of shady construction issue during the process that Gu Jingchen somehow learned about?" At this point, Principal Wang felt even more anxious. He stole a glance at Gu Jingchen, but the man across from him—regal and commanding—remained expressionless.
Principal Wang then glanced at Dean Li, seated beside him. Dean Li also seemed innocent, completely unclear about Gu Jingchen's intentions.
"Principal Wang, the Gu Group has always supported Yun City's education initiatives. We plan to fund the construction of a design teaching building at your university. You draft the plans, and we will provide the funds."
Offering a sweet promise first was certain. The man's legs crossed lightly—just this simple action exuded an effortlessly striking charm, making it hard for anyone to look away.
"Ah, that's wonderful! Thank you, Mr. Gu!" This was certainly a stroke of luck that felt like manna from heaven. With the university's current tough operations, having the support of the Gu Group was simply amazing!
Principal Wang and Dean Li exchanged glances. The evident joy was overwhelming, their smiles widening as they increasingly fawned over him. No matter the Gu Group's reason for constructing the facility, for them, it meant achievements to showcase!
"However, I do have a few conditions." The man's tall figure leaned slightly forward, his distinct fingers clasping together as he raised his brows and gazed at the two men before him.
"What conditions might those be? Please, do share," Principal Wang and Dean Li responded enthusiastically, their faces blossoming into overly eager smiles as they flattered Gu Jingchen.
"To enhance the physical fitness of graduates and also to select an exceptional employee for the Gu Group, I propose holding a military training exercise at Yun City University. The top performer will be offered a position within our Group. What do you think, Principal Wang?"
The man's expression remained clear and composed, his tone measured.
"Absolutely, absolutely. It's such a great opportunity! I believe all students will eagerly vie for the chance. The Gu Group offering a position to our university is truly an honor."
Principal Wang nodded quickly, his face brimming with smiles as he agreed.
"Additionally, Dean Li, I intend to donate 10 of the world's most renowned pianos to the Design College. However, usage will be restricted to those who meet the highest level of piano proficiency, and the pianos will be designated for exclusive individual use. What do you think?"
Previously, Gu Jingchen had conducted an investigation. In the Design College, there were likely fewer than ten individuals at Shang Xixia's piano level. Furthermore, for piano players with great skill, the concept of exclusive use for premium instruments was often adhered to. This would absolutely ensure Xixia could use the finest piano available.
When he thought of the beloved girl playing the piano, a tender warmth surged through the man's heart, and the curve of his lips softened into a subtle smile.
"This…" Dean Li wiped the cold sweat from his face with some difficulty. Such a decision could lead to discord and division within the Design College, potentially sparking concerns about favoritism toward certain students. Thus, he felt the pressure mounting.
"Sure, sure, sure. I'm the principal, so I make the final call. We'll simply assign designated piano rooms for those students. Don't worry, Mr. Gu, rest assured."
Seeing Dean Li hesitate, Principal Wang wasn't pleased—how could he let this hinder his own success? Without hesitation, he agreed in one breath.
"Perfect, perfect. Mr. Gu, I'll ensure you're completely satisfied." Under Principal Wang's coercive glare, Dean Li hurriedly stood up and nodded in agreement.
"Then I'll leave it to you both," Gu Jingchen said, the corners of his lips curling upward with a hint of smug satisfaction.
After wrapping up the conversation with Dean Li and Principal Wang, Gu Jingchen took long strides back to his CEO office.
"Rong Hao, did you remember everything I mentioned earlier? Get only the best pianos." Seated once again in his office chair, the man spoke.
"Yes, boss. I'll contact them immediately." Rong Hao bowed respectfully, his lips twitching. His boss was truly a master of flaunting his affections. The way he showcased his love was on a whole different level—spending billions in a flash. But then again, with the Gu Group's capability, earning a few billion took no time at all.
Meanwhile, after Shang Xixia and her two friends wrapped up a day of work and study, they returned to their dorm. Right at the door, they noticed the bulletin board listing an announcement.
The notice explicitly stated that the college was providing top-tier pianos and specialized practice rooms to support students in honing their artistic talents and promoting multidimensional development. The announcement included a list of eligible students based on archived profiles and records. Specific practice rooms were allocated, emphasizing the personal exclusivity of the instruments. At the end of the notice, heartfelt gratitude was expressed toward the Gu Group's sponsorship.
"Oh my goodness! It's Gu Jingchen! I only casually mentioned how inconvenient it was for Xixia to access a piano, and Gu Jingchen went ahead and donated so many globally renowned pianos! Xixia, look how clear his feelings for you are—they're absolutely undeniable day and night!"
Yu Tingting's eyes sparkled as she suddenly recalled what she had said earlier that morning. At this moment, her young face lit up with radiant excitement as she gazed at Shang Xixia's shimmering eyes, filled with boundless energy.
"Tingting, don't say such nonsense. Perhaps he was merely inspired to donate by your comment; you know they always engage in charitable endeavors."
Shang Xixia couldn't help but feel flustered by Yu Tingting's remark. Her originally fair complexion now bore traces of a gentle blush, yet she kept trying to rationalize Gu Jingchen's actions.