Assistant Architect by Xi He Qing Ling

Chapter 104: Breakdown

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Watching Zhang Siyi reaction closely, and knowing how he reacted during the Z City bid in the past, Gu Yu could guess the state of shock Zhang Siyi was in right now.

Zhang Siyi worked very hard for his first project that he earned by his own efforts until completion and for it to be taken away was a huge blow to his psyche.

Maybe if half of the work was done, the damage would be less…. But there is no use in saying that now. It doesn’t matter if the plans were finished or not, the end is already here.

Gu Yu was afraid he couldn’t bear the blow, so he didn’t pursue the issue of ‘communication.’ Instead, he tried to comfort him with a calm voice: “Like the Z City planning project, this kind of thing often happens in the industry. If there weren’t special circumstances, we wouldn’t have won the bid at the beginning. It is common in the construction industry because there is uncertainty in every step of the process and as a result, there are countless projects that die.”

Zhang Siyi lowered his eyes and did not speak.

Looking down at the blueprints on his desk again Gu Yu said: ”The plans were draw very well. Think of this as a learning experience. Now, I think you have a better understanding of the details needed in designing and drafting as well domestic regulation which is very beneficial towards your future work.”

Below the desktop, Zhang Siyi put his hands on his shaking knees and clenched his fist and thought: – no wonder he didn’t circle any problems. There was no point in doing so.

Thinking about the recent days, Gu Yu knew Zhang Siyi was looking for a new place to live during his lunch break every day. He knew Zhang Siyi was the first to leave every night and arrive punctually every morning.  Even when Gu Yu went looking for Zhang Siyi to talk to him, he couldn’t find him in the office. He must have been extremely busy. Just as he was going to ask Zhang Siyi about his apartment status, Zhang Siyi interrupted Gu Yu’s thoughts and said: “Boss, I want to be alone.”

Continuing to monitor his reactions, Gu Yu was concerned and looked at Zhang Siyi thoughtfully then said: “Well, I won’t arrange a new job for you right now. Take this moment to reorganize your thoughts and go home early today to rest.”

Zhang Siyi mechanically got up, walked away and hurriedly went to his desk to shut down the computer. Ignoring Zhu Hongzhen’s strange look and the stares of others, without a word, he was the first to leave work for the day.

Like a wandering soul, before he was even conscience of it, he rode the subway home lost in a daze. When he opened the door to his apartment, he went inside then fell onto the sofa feeling like nothing was left of himself but a husk.

When Cheer-Up saw him, he excitedly jumped up and down on him, waiting to be petted. Zhang Siyi, like a dead man, was completely unresponsive. His dull mind slowly recalled what had happened to him in recent days.

He felt that he had never been so unlucky in all of his twenty years. His best friend left. He had no money to move with the dog. He sold speakers and lost five thousand dollars. He unfathomably likes the same-sex and is emotionally frustrated. His career field is even more frustrating. He didn’t know if he was the only one that felt particularly miserable when they first enter society, or if this feeling was common.

After a long time, with the little strength that he had left, Zhang Siyi slowly turned his head to look at the dog. With a self-deprecating, sad smile, he sulked: “What Lucky Dog? You are the dog of doom!”

Cheer up: “Woof!”

Zhang Siyi reluctantly petted his head. With the dog of doom being called ‘Cheer-Up’, life is full of irony.

The next morning, when Gu Yu arrived at the company, he saw Zhang Siyi’s empty seat. Even though he was busy all morning, from time to time, Gu Yu peeked through the frosted glass window to look for Zhang Siyi at his desk. Even by midday, Zhang Siyi did not come to work.

He only allowed him to go home early and recuperate last night and didn’t approve of a second days absence. Gu Yu called the front desk landline and asked for Zhang Siyi whereabouts. They also reported a lack of notification by Zhang Siyi. Gu Yu frowned and put his work on hold. He canceled Tao Fei dinner arrangements, put on his coat and left the company.

With urgency, Gu Yu used the subway system to get to Zhang Siyi’s house. Like last night, on the way to his house, he tried to call him many times, but whether it was by phone call or by text, or social media, there was no response.

Half an hour later, hoping he hadn’t move away yet, Gu Yu was at Zhang Siyi apartment, ringing the doorbell. There was no answer.

After three minutes of pressing the button, someone finally answered: “Who is it!?”

Hearing the voice of Zhang Siyi, Gu Yu’s spirit rose for a moment before it fell again: “Gu Yu. Open the door.”

Zhang Siyi: “………”

Gu Yu entered the building and went upstairs to his apartment and saw Zhang Siyi standing in the door dressed in his pajamas looking depressed. Gu Yu frowned and directly asked: “What is the matter with you? Why didn’t you come to work? Why is your phone off?”

Since Zhang Siyi didn’t expect Gu Yu to come find him, he felt a little happy to hear his voice. However being bombarded with questions, Zhang Siyi felt like he was under attack.

Feeling completely pissed off, Zhang Siyi shouted at Gu Yu: “I can’t take it anymore. I QUIT!”

He thought about it all night, and the more he thought about it, the more he was willing to accept quitting. Following Gu Yu like a puppy… He was so stupid!

He Chengtian was right. Zhang Siyi was too naïve and too idealistic. Thinking he could rely on those ridiculous notions and bullshit feelings, like floating bubbles, quickly bursting and disappearing at any second, they won’t ever make his dreams come true.

    ……

In shock, Gu Yu looked at him with an incredulous expression on his face. After a dozen seconds he spoke with a tremble in his voice: “Are you serious?” Right after, Gu Yu adjusted his tone and spoke with a fierceness that Zhang Siyi never heard before: “Just because of something so small, you quit!?”

Afraid of Gu Yu’s demeanor, Zhang Siyi took a step back in fright. He wanted to retort: – This small matter might be a trifle for you but not for me!

However, Gu Yu didn’t give him time to answer. Quickening his pace, Gu Yu aggressively stepped towards Zhang Siyi and spoke firmly: “You are going to give up? This is your attitude towards architecture and work?”

Zhang Siyi was forced backwards until he hit a wall. No longer able to suppress his feelings anymore, he clenched his fist and shouted: “But I have had enough! I work so hard but I don’t see any results! This job is too difficult! He Chengtian promised me a 200,000 year salary. Could my job pay like that? No! Four and a half years of study and I am so poor I can’t even afford a single apartment in the city. I work, but for what purpose? I build buildings, but I can’t even find a building to live! There is no point!”

He is going to find He Chengtian. He wants to make a lot of money. He wants to rent whatever kind of apartment he wants in the future without hassle. Love my job award? Outstanding staff award? All garbage! He doesn’t care anymore!

Gu Yu replied: “You have only worked on this project for two months total. Do you think that is a lot of work? Everyone starts from a humble position, from a small role to becoming a vital member of the company. Zhu Hongzhen spent one and a half years doing basic models in his previous workplace before coming to borderless. To learn how to draw and pain well, Yuan Zhicheng spent more than ten hours a day in the Academy of Fine Arts. Even now, he practices sketching every day outside of work! In college, Be Lele read the entire school’s collection of design magazines to gain knowledge and develop her own design aesthetic. When she came to Borderless, she didn’t know some PS computer skills so she stayed in the company every night until 9:30 to self-study. It is unnecessary to explain Du Rui’s experience at her old company. Her excellent ability to draft perfect works speaks for themselves. Do you think everyone’s grades are so easy to obtain? Do you think you are suffering? They’ve been through a lot more setbacks than you! Have you ever heard anyone of them say they want to give up? You have only worked for six months, and you want to ask for the moon?”

Zhang Siyi didn’t think it was easy for them to obtain their working status. Zhang Siyi knew that his colleagues were better than him, but hearing the details from Gu Yu shocked him speechless. Gu Yu’s words deeply touched his soul. He also wanted to continue working hard with his colleagues and he wanted to work alongside Gu Yu.

But now, he is too tired and his mind couldn’t comprehend the situation anymore. Did he build the building for himself or because of Gu Yu? He never thought he would fall so deeply in love. The unknown reason for Tao Fei being hired at the company is driving Zhang Siyi crazy. Compared to his hate for Tao Fei, he can’t stand the idea of Gu Yu discovering his love and then shunning him so in desperation, Zhang Siyi did the only thing he could think of; leave this terrible feeling behind!

…… But how could he possibly say that? Instead, Zhang Siyi used his frustration of the job as an excuse!

“It is true that people have high and low backgrounds. The distinction is different and in most people’s eyes, the amount of money someone makes is used as the criterion for judging a persons’ success. If you really want to give up, use your shortcut. Maybe you will be happy then and think life is better. With more money, you may be able to brag, but you can’t hinder the pursuit in someone’s heart. With strong values, self-worth and determination, a person can achieve what their soul desires. These are things money cannot buy.” Gu Yu looked at him and the disappointment in his eyes was particularly evident.

“It’s not……” Zhang Siyi shook his head unconsciously, choked back the words and wanted to refute because it wasn’t like that. He understood the truth.

“Isn’t what….? You said you liked architecture. You said you’re on this road because of me. If that’s what you call ’like’ …… “With a pained expression on his face, Gu Yu paused and lowered his voice: “You are very disappointing.”

All of the psychological barriers that Zhang Siyi put up to keep his mind moving forward were completely shattered by Gu Yu’s statement. The tears that had been lingering for a long time were finally released, flowing steadily down his cheeks. Choking back his tears, he sniffled and angrily said in a hoarse voice: “Since I am such a disappointment, why did you hire me in the first place? Why don’t you find a few more people like Zhu Hongzhen, Bi Lele, or Yuan Zhicheng!? Even better, hire a few more Tao Fei!!”

Wide-eyed, Gu Yu was stunned. The expression on his face quickly changed and became very strange. …. – Tao Fei? Did he just didn’t mention Tao Fei? Why did Zhang Siyi mention him? What does Tao Fei have to do with it?

“With Tao Fei’s help, you are so happy with him every day. I don’t know what is right. I don’t want to give you trouble and be hated. I don’t want to become worthless. I don’t want to be abandoned……”

In a loud cry, Zhang Siyi poured out his heart. He wanted to say he likes Gu Yu and he still likes architecture. He doesn’t want to give up at all! However, that isn’t what he said. Instead, it all turned into angry, bitter words: “If I’m such a disappointment, then why are you here!?”

Gu Yu’s heart fell into the sea, and sunk down deep before it turned around and started to float upwards. ….. Is he feeling inferior? …… or is it jealousy?

The more he said, the more wronged Zhang Siyi felt and the more his tears fell. Lifting his hand to wipe his face, he wanted to take back what he said. He felt ashamed and embarrassed at wanting to be comforted by Gu Yu. It is just his daydream. That hateful man only knows how to hurt!

But as soon as he tried to move, Gu Yu suddenly stepped forward and aggressively grabbed his wrist.

Zhang Siyi: “……”

Like looking through his body and into his soul, Gu Yu watched Zhang Siyi intensely. Gu Yu facial muscles went through a myriad of changes; curiosity, puzzlement, thoughtfulness and when his doubts subsided a few moments later, he said: “Do you want to know why I hired you?”

Zhang Siyi tried to move his hand, but he was trapped. Instead, Gu Yu pulled him closer: “Wh…, Why?”

Pondering, Gu Yu furrowed his brow slightly, pursed his lips, and deeply thought of what to say. He slowly spoke: “Indeed, I heard your ex-girlfriend scold you for an hour from the beginning at the coffee shop. I also felt……” Gu Yu let his head hang and sighed deeply then looked at Zhang Siyi: “……I thought you were a person with no sense of responsibility. Probably your only merit was your ability to endure her verbal onslaught for so long. You were like a steamed soft bun being poked and prodded. You had no reasonable basis for rebutting her. Although in the end when you finally stood up for yourself, wet with coffee, a wrongly accused passerby suffered for you in vain.”

Zhang Siyi: “……”

Releasing the tension in his grasp, Gu Yu slowly changed the angle of his hand in order to intertwine his fingers with Zhang Siyi. He gradually calmed down and softly spoke: “I heard you say you were looking for a job and reworking your portfolio. I thought your attitude at least, proves you are a motivated person that is willing to learn and thus, perhaps I can give you a chance. Of course, if there was no resume, then I wouldn’t be able to help you.”

At such a close distance, Zhang Siyi could not move. He could feel Gu Yu breath on his neck and his hand holding his own tightly.

Gu Yu continued softly: “I accepted your request for an interview and through the exchange, I found that you were very different from the coward at the coffee shop. You had personal ideas and your thoughts were very logical which are exceptional qualities for an architectural designer. Finally, when I looked at your portfolio, I carefully examined each work and although they were relatively rough and immature, the design ideas were excellent. All of these qualities made me conclude you have great potential. Maybe I can help cultivate your ability so that you could grow into a unique and outstanding designer.”

Feeling hot, Zhang Siyi’s tears subsided. It probably wasn’t easy for Gu Yu to say such lengthly praise.

“If you hadn’t mentioned it, I really didn’t remember you being my high school alumnus so I didn’t hire you for that sentiment…” Gu Yu raised his hand and tenderly caressed his cheek. With his thumb, he wiped the tears away from the corner of his eye. He softly asked: “Do these reasons make you a little more confident?”

Although Gu Yu’s words eased his worries, Zhang Siyi didn’t know what to make of his other intimate actions. He felt embarrassed and wanted to hide. However, Gu Yu did not let him break free and again came closer. The two of them were nearly holding onto one another.

Looking at Zhang Siyi inquisitively, with some hesitation, Gu Yu softly said: “Don’t cry. Don’t feel bad. I will be with you at every step along the way, okay?”

Hearing Gu Yu’s soothing words, Zhang Siyi wanted to cry more. His heart was both sour and sweet. When he is angry or depressed, with just a little encouragement and a simple gesture from his love, Gu Yu can make him feel instantly cured of any problems. What kind of magic is this? What Peach Brother? All he could think about was loving Gu Yu.

Standing with Gu Yu awkwardly for a while, Zhang Siyi sniffed once then gently nodded his head.

Seemingly satisfied, Gu Yu let him go. He took a moment to look at the apartment and saw the mess. Gu Yu frowned and asked: “When do you move?”

The hand Gu Yu was holding felt hot and as if to grasp the sensation again, Zhang Siyi curled up his fingers and held his fist to his chest. He replied as a matter of fact: “I haven’t found a place to live yet.”

Zhang Siyi has searched for an acceptable place everyday over the last two weeks. The apartments are either cheap and unlivable, or good but too expensive. Additionally, many places do not allow pets. The process of finding an apartment has been very frustrating!

Gu Yu look at Zhang Siyi in the eye and tilted his head slightly then asked: “Do you want to…… live with me?”

Zhang Siyi: “Eh?”

“If you don’t mind, move in and live with me.” Gu Yu looked to the side at Cheer-Up and said: “Take someone else’s son…. It doesn’t matter.”

Zhang Siyi: “……”

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Assistant Architect by Xi He Qing Ling

Chapter 103: Canceled

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After submitting the drawings to the HVAC department for final air conditioning and lighting configuration, Zhang Siyi was completely relieved. Once the evaluation was completed, Zhang Siyi only needed to make minor adjustments to the plans.

Feeling smug, Zhang Siyi was gloating in his accomplishment and with excessive energy, he was swiveling his seat back and forth. When he set his mind to it, just like that, the work wasn’t difficult and it was finished. – Ha! Top that Tao Fei! Let’s see who is his favorite now!

Zhang Siyi nearly jumped out of his seat when he heard the loud cry from Tao Fei. Separated by three rows of large desks, the distance was not close. Not knowing what happened, everyone raised their heads up from their work to look around.

Wanting to know more, Bi Lele slid her chair across the room to find out what happened then quickly rolled her chair back to her desk to report: “Wow! The new designer, Tao Fei, created a high-rise commercial center. It’s super cool!”

Hearing Bi Lele’s excitement, Zhang Siyi felt irritated. Cool is not the standard for judging the quality of a design. Since Borderless Group A has always been the more conservative group between Group A and B, anything could be ‘cool’ when comparing them to the normally conservative Group A.

However, Zhang Siyi can only speculate on the design style of Tao Fei by virtue of his education and not from personal experience looking at an example of Tao Fei work.

The prestigious University in the UK that he graduated from was known for design styles that were radical and not mainstream. Due to the University’s fame, Zhang Siyi and his classmates visited the graduation design exhibition. Marveling at the artistry in the exhibition, the designs were extraordinary, like buildings out of fairy tales or from another planet.

However, these types of buildings were rarely built. It wasn’t because they were bad, but because they were so controversial. The research and material exploration needed to solve construction problems were greater than constructing the building itself, resulting in those works to be too difficult to achieve. In Zhang Siyi’s eyes, this issue is contrary to Gu Yu’s relatively pragmatic philosophy.

Therefore, as soon as he heard Bi Lele’s ‘cool’, instinctively he was not optimistic. Of course, he could not absolve himself of his preconceived hostility towards Tao Fei.

Zhang Siyi was conflicted. Including Zhu Hongzhen and Yuan Zhicheng, his colleagues around the room were very excited. Wanting to know more, they all craned their necks over for a peek and asked: “How cool is it?”

Bi Lele explained with a gesture: “Rounded edges, curved lines, and long shapes, like a glutinous rice cake. Each layer of the plane is cut out and forms natural shaped bubbles.”

Everyone” Crowd: “…”

After hearing BI Lele’s description, everyone was even more curious. While Zhang Siyi sat at his desk, holding his ground, everyone else got up and went to look at the Tao Fei’s design.  After a brief time, one by one, everyone went back to their own desks looking thoughtful.

 Zhu Hongzhen said thoughtfully: “It is very good. A bit of Zaha style**.”

Yuan Zhicheng said: “I think it is Ma Yansong’s style**. Isn’t it like the Monroe Building**?”

Zhu Hongzhen shrugged: “Isn’t it the same thing?”

With excitement, Bi Lele replied: “Our group finally has a dynamic designer.”

Yuan Zhicheng: “Are you saying Group A designs are ugly?”

Zhu Hongzhen said: “Economically constructed buildings that are environmentally friendly have a tendency to be simple. There isn’t much you can do to get around it.”

Be Lele nodded: “Now that we have Peach Brother on our side, Child Labor team will be surprised!”

Yuan Zhicheng raised his eyes and asked: “When did you give him a nickname?”

Bi Lele: “It’s not me. The people next to Tao Fei are calling him Peach Brother. He seems to be as big as Ji Feiyu.”

Zhang Siyi: “……” – Even if it’s a slang term, why does Tao Fei get to be named sexy brother when I get named Auntie Four! Ah! Fuck, it’s not fair!

Noticing how quiet Zhang Siyi is, Zhu Hongzhen wondered if he wasn’t feeling well. Normally, Zhang Siyi was very outgoing and liked listening to office gossip, but now, he has been acting so gloomy and dazed that he is robotically drawing at his desk without interest in his surroundings.

Zhu Hongzhen thought Zhang Siyi was more nervous about his project because of its difficulty then initially anticipated so Zhang Siyi didn’t have time to speak with others. In contrast to his thoughts, at dinner the other Day, Zhu Hongzhen asked Du Rui about Zhang Siyi’s project and learned that it wasn’t the case at all.

Only recently has Zhang Siyi plunged himself into his work as if he was avoiding something. Was it something difficult outside of work? He couldn’t talk to coworkers? Was it the stress of Tao Fei’s presence? But, isn’t this reaction just too much?

Looking at Zhang Siyi in this way, Zhu Hongzhen is a little worried for his colleague. He still prefers the foolish, usually curious and occasionally lazy Aunt Four. Zhu Hongzhen couldn’t help but ask: “Four, why don’t you go see Tao Fei’s design?”

While looking at the computer with a serious face, pretended to be working hard, Zhang Siyi perfunctory replied: “I am a little busy right now. I’ll go see it later.”

Zhu Hongzhen: “Oh……”

Listening to the description of Tao Fei’s design, he knew it was strange and won’t be built, so he never planned on looking at it. Furthermore, he was the man who finished a set of construction plans ahead of schedule. Last year at the meeting, Secretary Wang mentioned they were planning on breaking ground in April this year. Soon, he will be an architect with actual works!

With this self-inflating sense of satisfaction and recognition, Zhang Siyi opened a web browser. He looked around him and saw everyone busy with their own work so he cautiously typed in the search…… Monroe Building…… What does it look like again? Hmm…….

Being completely absorbed in what he was doing, he jerked with fright when he suddenly heard his name being called by Gu Yu from behind: “Zhang Siyi……”

Gu Yu tone was very serious causing Zhang Siyi to think his internet usage was discovered. He quickly cancelled the web browser window then turned around to face him. Seeing his solemn expression, Zhang Siyi was taken back for a brief moment, then thought to himself: What is there to be afraid of? I have finished my project.

“…… Come to my office.” Gu Yu flatly commanded, then turned and went back.

The more Zhang Siyi thought about his Boss coming out of his office to personally ask for him instead of using the internal private messaging system, the more his anxiety rose. He took his completed stack of blueprints that were just printed this morning and walked into Gu Yu’s office.

As Zhang Siyi entered Gu Yu’s office, he saw Gu Yu sitting at his desk with a slight frown which made Zhang Siyi a little nervous. He handed over the thick stack of drawings and said: “I have finished the plans for the office building this morning. I didn’t get the chance to tell you earlier but, these are the latest drawings.”

With Du Rui guidance, Zhang Siyi was very confident in his own plans. The righteous and solemn expression he carried seemed to say ‘I have completed the work! See how great and diligent I am?’

However, when Gu Yu listened to Zhang Siyi speak, his brows furrowed deeper.

Gu Yu slightly moved his lips, but remained silent. As Zhang Siyi handed the drawings to him, Gu Yu looked down at the stack of papers in his hands.

One by one, from the plane sections to the details, Gu Yu looked very carefully at each paper. Every so often he would take his pencil and hesitate, as if to make corrections, but ultimately, he wrote nothing.

Zhang Siyi doesn’t know if there are either problems with the drawings, or if Gu Yu has a problem but doesn’t want to make a mark on his drawings.

After not seeing Gu Yu for nearly half the month, Zhang Siyi greedily soaked in Gu Yu’s being. He inspected Gu Yu intently, from his fingers holding the pencil, to his pronounced wrist bones, the clean cuffs of his shirt, though his powerful arms hidden under his sleeve, into his shoulder revealing his collar, and his sexy throat. He could feel himself heating up and waiting in anticipation for approval……

“You……” Gu Yu suddenly raised his head and asked: “……have drawn to this point? Why didn’t you show it to me before?”

Gu Yu’s loud and firm voice brought Zhang Siyi out of his reverie. Even though Zhang Siyi was surprised, he calmly explained: “Since Du Rui helped supervise, I let her look over my work. You were always too busy, so I was going to show you after the HVAC department configured the air conditioner.”

The more Zhang Siyi spoke, the more his confidence grew, and the more correct his logic seemed to be. Gu Yu was busy with a business trip for four days. Then he was busy all the time with the Tao Fei. He is also busy at company meetings and other tasks. What spare time does Gu Yu have to meet with him for feedback?

Gu Yu looked straight at him and asked bluntly, “Have you been avoiding me lately?

“…..” Zhang Siyi panicked and instinctively denied him: “I didn’t…. Why should I hide from you?”

Gu Yu’s eyes locked onto Zhang Siyi preventing Zhang Siyi from avoiding Gu Yu line of sight. With his fingers tightly clasping the stack of papers, Gu Yu replied firmly: “I let Du Rui teach you some basic common knowledge because she has a lot of experience drawing construction plans and is able to oversee your progress, not so she can make the final decision for you. In the meantime, I sent a message almost every day asking for your progress report and every day, you said you were still working on the plans, but now, you suddenly say you are finished?”

Defensively, Zhang Siyi retorted: “It’s not the same……”

Gu Yu suddenly interrupted him: “Zhang Siyi, with work, communication is most important. What is the matter with you recently?”

Zhang Siyi started turning red with anger. -How can you say I am avoiding you when you and Tao Fei are inseparable!?  I fixed it myself and saved you the trouble!

Admitting it to himself, he was being somewhat unreasonable, however unless he hid his inner turmoil from Gu Yu, he is afraid his feelings would be revealed and Gu Yu would come to resent him.

Gu Yu exhaled wearily and put down his pen. He set aside the stack of drawing and said quietly: “The office building will not be built.”

Zhang Siyi didn’t react: “What? Why?” He thought Gu Yu’s blunt verdict was because he was angry with him.

Then Gu Yu explained the reason: “I got a call from Secretary Wang this morning. They received notification from the State to suspend any construction being done in the name of the government and thus, this set of drawings are no longer needed.”

The shock to Zhang Siyi was like having a bucket of ice water thrown on him. Now pale, the blood drained from his face and he sat still. Because of his recent emotion turmoil, for the last two weeks, Zhang Siyi ignored his feelings and focused his energy into both work and finding an apartment. Even though he was exhausted, he thought as long as he worked hard, the achievement at the end was worth the struggle.

With his improved drawing skills and steady progress, Zhang Siyi had become stronger and self-confident. As long as he continued progressing, he doesn’t feel like he needed anyone. But at the last minute, in the moment he was about to see a staged victory, his goal suddenly disappeared.

Without making a sound and sitting motionless, Zhang Siyi felt the world collapse right underneath him and a black abyss swallowed him whole. What is the meaning of his employment? What status does he have in the company? He didn’t know what to do. He didn’t know anything.

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T/N:  

Zaha style: https://www.architecturaldigest.com/zaha-hadid-architecture-buildings

Ma Yansong style: https://www.archdaily.com/799981/spotlight-ma-yansong

Based on the description, I think this is the Monroe Building the characters are referencing.

Assistant Architect by Xi He Qing Ling

Chapter 102: House Hunting

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However, packing and moving isn’t the biggest headache right now, it is his finances.

Zhang Siyi only recently learned how to keep good records of his accounts and manage his money. He doesn’t have any savings and his credit cards were overdrawn. Previously, Fu Xinhui would help pay rent in advance and then Zhang Siyi would pay him back when he could. As a result, Zhang Siyi formed a habit of paying rent late and thus, since his rent is due now, he doesn’t have it. Since Fu Xinhui family went bankrupt and he is going abroad, the spoiled Zhang Siyi must clean up the mess alone.

When you start living in a new apartment, the lease normally requires a deposit and one months rent in advance when you sign a contract. In the current location, it is absolutely impossible to rent a place for 4000 monthly.

Zhang Siyi looked at the ceiling and sighed. First, he needed to go out and see what was available and then determine if he could afford it. Like Lu Qiao, he might have to find a place farther from the city center.

While thinking about his rent issues, Gu Yu replied: “Where is he going?”

Zhang Siyi: “He’s going abroad.”

Gu Yu: “So, what are your plans? Are you ready to move?”

Ten days ago, Zhang Siyi mentioned the issue of moving so he didn’t hesitant to reply: “I have until the end of the month.”

Gu Yu: “Are you going to find a roommate?”

Zhang Siyi: “Since I have the dog, I am not sure if I will be able to find a roommate so I’ll probably just find an apartment for myself.”

After he sent the message, he was expecting a fast reply. Zhang Siyi held his phone staring at the screen waiting for the text from Gu Yu for a long time. When he couldn’t wait any longer, he went to put the phone down, however the phone sounded. Gu Yu messaged: “If there are any difficulties, you can tell me.”

Zhang Siyi emotions were a wreck. Usually he isn’t so vulnerable, but today, he was immersed with sad feelings from Fu Xinhui’s departure. He especially wanted to be comforted by Gu Yu.

Although Zhang Siyi thought Gu Yu’s message was probably just his concern for a friend and subordinate, and even with the sour feeling Zhang Siyi has since Tao Fei appearance, his heart warmed up a little.

Zhang Siyi replied: “Well, thank you.”

Regardless of Gu Yu’s feelings, with his best friend gone, Zhang Siyi can only find comfort in Gu Yu’s support. In the later part of the month, Zhang Siyi was met with another disaster. Being faced with the truth of the cost of renting a new home has left Zhang Siyi feeling drained. This experience has been the most difficult since returning to China!

The next day, Zhang Siyi went to work early and made a few phone calls to an agency and ask about apartment rentals. As he expected, there are similar sized apartments and rental costs in the vicinity he now lives in. Since there aren’t cheaper places, he will have to move further from the city center.

When he got out of the elevator, Zhang Siyi saw the receptionist with Tao Fei. He heard Tao Fei ask: “Why are there so many cacti?”

“Because Director Gu likes cactus. When it was his birthday, the female employees in the design department bought him cactus as gifts, but instead of keeping them, he donated the plants to the company so now, there are a lot that haven’t been claimed. ”Flirting with Tao Fei, the young girl at the front desk quietly revealed this secret to him.”

Tao Fei laughed: “Gu Yu likes cactus? Why didn’t I know!? Which one is his?”

Hearing the change in attitude from Tao Fei at the mention of Gu Yu, Zhang Siyi felt irritated. He couldn’t help himself from slowing his pace in order to continue listening in on their conversation.

“The Director raised this one.” The young receptionist pointed to the big cactus on the shelf.

Tao Fei only glanced at the big cactus and moved his line of sight to the small ball next to it: “This small cactus next to it looks like it came from the big one. I’ll take care of that one.”

Although the cactus is actually an imposter and the real cactus is at his house, when he heard Tao Fei make claim to the cactus, he felt angry and frazzled. Even if it was counterfeit, the cactus was his exclusive plant that Gu Yu gave him!”

The receptionist replied: “That cactus is being raised by someone already, Aunt Four.”

Tao Fei wondered and questioned: “Who is Aunt-sister? Are there relatives in this company?”

Zhang Siyi: “……” Auntie, your sister!

The young women covered her mouth hiding her laugh: “No, no. Aunt Four is a boy. It’s his nickname.” She then turned to the huge picture on the wall………

…..  Zhang Siyi wanted to reach out and stop her. Nnnnoooooo!! (QAQ)

But it was too late. Zhang Siyi saw the young girl at the front desk reach out and point at Zhang Siyi’s silly sleepy photo, saying, “It’s him!”

With his large eye getting even bigger, Tao Fei flashed a face of surprise: “Oh, it is him!” But his surprise turned into a funny smile: “Who took this photo of him? It’s stupid.”

Zhang Siyi: “…………” It’s too much!

Spotting Zhang Siyi coming in, the young women called out to him: “Hey Mr. Zhang!”

Hearing his name being called, Zhang Siyi was even more annoyed. Tao Fei was really surprised to see him, but his silence only lasted a few seconds. He watched Zhang Siyi and laughed out loud crazily: “Ha-ha-ha-ha-ha-ha-ha-ha-ha-ha!”

Clenching his jaw, Zhang Siyi glared at him angrily, and stepped through them with heavy footsteps to get into the office.

    ….. He hates Tao Fei! (╰皿╯)

During the lunch break at noon, Zhang Siyi planned to take some time to look at housing options. It suddenly occurred to him; the real estate agent who he exchanged business cards with when he first joined Borderless.

He opened his desk drawer and searched through the documents. Finding it among the office stuff in his draw, he pulled it out a looked on the backside for the phone number.  Zhang Siyi removed the man’s number from the blacklist and made a phone call.

After the call was connected, he did not hear the usual introductory voice of ‘hello I’m so-n-so, can I help you’ and instead there was a pause and an angry voice: “Who is this?”

“Uh, is this Mr. x from the real estate agency?”

“The real estate market hasn’t been good. I’ve quit!” Then Zhang Siyi heard the sound of the phone hanging up. Leaving Zhang Siyi hanging out to dry, he looked at his phone in surprise and thought: -Shit! I didn’t think there would be a day when the intermediary would hang up on me!

The agent who had previously harassed him endlessly last fall, quit. He went downstairs to look around for an agency near his company. Looking at the listings through the window for information, he was shocked to find that the rent at eight thousand a month for a 1 room studio was even more outrageous. Shit! Just kill me!

Mulling over this new information, he strolled back to his company. Zhang Siyi didn’t think his mood could get any worse than it already was, but when he arrived back to the company, he saw Tao Fei and Gu Yu just coming back together from lunch. Fuck! Just kill me again!

“Hey! Mr. Zhang!” Tao Fei smiled and waved at him.

Gu Yu also looked at him, and opened his mouth to say something……

Feeling like he couldn’t take it any longer, Zhang Siyi spoke in a monotone voice and interrupted: “I’m going to the convenience store.”  As he turned and headed to the nearby store, he heard Tao Fei say: “He’s a strange guy.”

After a full day at work, Zhang Siyi returned home in the evening. He went to walk the dog and continue to pack and clean up the apartment.

When he Fu Xinhui returned briefly after the New Year’s, he packed the important items and the clothes he wanted and took them away with him. At that time, it wasn’t clear whether or not he was going to continue liveing in the apartment. Zhang Siyi asked about his room once, and Fu Xinhui said he couldn’t bring the stuff abroad, so he left the remaining things in his room for Zhang Siyi to dispose of.

Fortunately, the boys did not have a lot of possessions. Other than extra cloths and bedding, there were assorted decorations and kitchen supplies to deal with.

Zhang Siyi was surprised to find the set of the Bose surround speakers that Fu Xinhui bought for more then ten thousand in his old room. Even in the face of his family’s bankruptcy, it seems like he hasn’t been able to let go of his nouveau riche spending habits. (=_=)

Already having experienced the hardships of life, Zhang Siyi chose to pack up the used speakers and post them to a secondhand website at a discount. It only took ten minutes until someone from the website contacted him. Solving one small problem for Zhang Siyi, they made arrangements to make the sale the same night. Zhang Siyi was happy to make some easy money. Pocketing his eight thousand, he looked at Cheer-Up and said: “Lucky dog, hmmm?”

With his tongue hanging out, the dog just panted: “Ha~Ha~Ha~.”

Putting his arms on waist, Zhang Siyi viewed his handiwork. With only a few more things to pack, the room was nearly empty and clean. When he was done, he noticed a bunch of new messages about the Bose speakers. “Bose speakers for only 8000. Are those fakes?”

Looking at the phrase ‘only eight thousand’ Zhang Siyi wonders: Eight thousand is cheap? It’s a month’s salary!

Another message appeared: “The original price of the speakers is 17,000. If they are less then a year old and 90% new, the second-hand market price is 13000. At 8000, are they really not fakes?”

Zhang Siyi: “……” Fuck!

Zhang Siyi’s heart is bleeding! He thought he made a quick buck, but the truth of the matter, is that in a blink of an eye, he lost potentially five-thousand.  – Why didn’t I investigate the pricing a little beforehand! No wonder the buyer came here so quickly to inspect the speakers. Ah! Fucking idiot!

Cheer-Up: “Ha ~ Ha ~ Ha ~”

Zhang Siyi grabbed a pillow from the sofa and threw it at the dog: “Shut up!”

Wasting energy over his stupidity isn’t going to get Zhang Siyi anywhere. Resigned, he finished packing and cleaning for the day. On the bright side, he found a solution to his immediate financial needs. The eight-thousand will be used to pay rent for a new apartment. Before going to sleep, Zhang Siyi got into the habit of practicing music.

Lately, playing the violin has allowed him to let go of the day’s pressure and feel more relaxed. It is strange. Zhang Siyi used to think that practicing the violin every day was a huge chore. He thought the repetition, playing the same thing over and over and over, that one needed to do in order to learn new music was a boring, impossible task. This is especially true for learning difficult music and learning Summer is no exception. But now that Zhang Siyi set a goal, he is determined to play the song Gu Yu requested and the next development is far easier then he imagined.

After two weeks of practice, Zhang Siyi has been able to play the song through without music. Although there are a few problematic areas and he needs to speed up the tempo overall, his existing progress and achievements gave Zhang Siyi a huge sense of accomplishment that lifted up his spirit out of the abyss.

Moreover, David Garret’s Summer interpretation is very exciting like a sultry summer afternoon when the clouds come, the rain pours, the wind blows, the thunder rumbles, the lightning strikes, like this ever-changing force, like his oppressive love, the contradiction is fierce.

Through the sound of the violin, to find relief, to seek hope, he desperately wanted a breakthrough. With his vigorous arm movements and quick fingers, he vented his love and jealousy that had nowhere else to go. He vented the backlog of stress and fatigue from the long work day that had nowhere to go. All of his negative feelings were like the notes from the page resonating then floating into the air.

After playing, all of his troubles retreated and his heart was soothed once again.

Zhang Siyi didn’t know playing the violin could be so therapeutic. Now, like an itchy mosquito bite that can’t be ignored, he wanted to play violin every day. Feeling the energy in the music every night, brings him strength and confidence to face a new day.

Blocking out all extraneous feelings, he focused his attention to his immediate needs. Methodically, he went to work for the day, he took a break a noon to look for an apartment and then at home every day in the evening, he cleaned and packed up his apartment. After ten intensely focused days, Zhang Siyi finished the blueprints of the entire office building six days ahead of schedule. He didn’t even need to ask for Du Rui help. Even Zhang Siyi was surprised at his own accomplishments under such a vigorous schedule.

Was this the breakthrough Zhang Siyi wanted?

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