This year had seen plenty of rain, frequent showers prompting the wedding to be held indoors. Team Leader Qi occasionally took half-days off, juggling wedding preparations alongside his work.

The consulting department was experiencing its busiest quarter. This joyful occasion relieved some of the tension, and thanks to their proximity, colleagues had already been enjoying wedding treats like candies and wife cakes.

During lunch, when the cubicles were empty, Shen Duoyi used the break to confirm the wedding schedule with Team Leader Qi. He hadn’t attended many weddings, let alone served as a groomsman, so he needed to be clear on every step.

“Duoyi, you don’t have to stress. Just get the gist of it,” Team Leader Qi said, chewing a milk candy and handing one to Shen Duoyi. “The schedule isn’t detailed because there are too many small tasks. Just go with the flow.”

Shen Duoyi took the candy. “I’m worried my improvisation skills aren’t good enough. What if I mess up on such an important day?”

Team Leader Qi smiled, both grateful and exasperated. “Don’t worry. Regular folks’ weddings are just about the lively chaos. Let’s grab lunch and talk it over.”

They were a bit late; the cafeteria was full. With recent meetings, people rarely went out for lunch. The only available seats were next to the two senior partners.

Zhang Yiming, sipping his soup, waved. “Come sit here.”

Qi Shi’an, absorbed in his meal, glanced up to see Shen Duoyi and Team Leader Qi approaching with documents. Shen Duoyi sat beside Qi Shi’an, greeting both him and Zhang Yiming.

Zhang Yiming teased, “Look at our consulting team leaders, still holding documents during lunch. How’s your investment team doing?”

Qi Shi’an didn’t respond. Team Leader Qi quickly clarified, “It’s the wedding schedule. We’re reviewing it over lunch. Mr. Qi, a lot of colleagues will be there — you should come and join the fun.”

Qi Shi’an maintained his aloof demeanor. “If I’m free, I’ll drop by.”

Since Zhang Yiming oversaw the consulting department, he was the first to be invited. With the two bosses squared away, Team Leader Qi started eating. Shen Duoyi finally finished the overly sweet milk candy and dug into his meal.

Halfway through, Shen Duoyi asked, “How will the bridesmaids block you during the pickup? Are there games?”

Team Leader Qi pondered. “Not sure. They’re keeping it a secret.”

“Tell your wife to give them math puzzles. I’ll get you through in no time. Or I can handle the gift money — I won’t mess it up.” Shen Duoyi said confidently.

Qi Shi’an listened, a smile tugging at his lips as he stared at his rice.

“Oh, I almost forgot.” Team Leader Qi opened his notes. “Duoyi, measure your size for the suit. Do you want a tailcoat or a standard-cut?”

“Whatever you think. Just don’t make me look like an insurance salesman. And I’ll wear a bow tie — neckties are too much hassle.”

Qi Shi’an spoke up. “Standard-cut.”

Team Leader Qi paused, surprised by the input, then nodded. “Alright, standard it is. Tailcoats are too flashy, like a symphony conductor.”

They reviewed everything, confirming the details. Shen Duoyi’s food had gone cold, but he finally started eating in peace. Team Leader Qi finished quickly, wiped his mouth, and pulled out his phone.

He showed Shen Duoyi the screen. “Duoyi, look.”

A photo of a girl in a white dress appeared. Shen Duoyi said, “She’s beautiful. Is that your wife?”

“No, it’s her best friend.” Team Leader Qi replied. “Pretty, right?”

Shen Duoyi gave him a skeptical look. “Why do you have a picture of her friend?”

Team Leader Qi laughed. “Relax. You two will be paired up for the wedding. Just giving you a heads-up.”

“Oh, I see. You scared me for a second.” Shen Duoyi smiled. “Got it.”

Zhang Yiming, who’d been silent, finally spoke. “Got what? He’s trying to set you up.”

Team Leader Qi nodded earnestly. “She’s the prettiest bridesmaid. Looks aren’t everything, but since you’re good-looking, I want to match you with the best.”

A loud clunk echoed as Qi Shi’an’s bowl hit the table. He wiped his mouth. “I’m done.”

He’d eaten about 80%, the remaining 20% lost to irritation. Shen Duoyi, avoiding eye contact, declined politely. “I don’t think it’s a good idea.”

“You haven’t even met her. How do you know it’s not a good idea? She’s gentle and sweet — you’d get along well.”

Shen Duoyi mumbled, “I actually like… someone sexy.”

Zhang Yiming chimed in immediately. “Didn’t expect that. Good taste. I like sexy too.”

Team Leader Qi scrolled to another photo. “This is my wife’s colleague. She studied abroad, very outgoing and confident. She’s got that sexy vibe.”

Shen Duoyi didn’t know where to look. Thankfully, Zhang Yiming stepped in. “Team Leader Qi, is your wedding doubling as a singles mixer for the guys? If I find someone, I’ll give you a big bonus.”

Qi Shi’an scoffed. “You? You’ve got enough flings to fill a platoon.”

“They all left — I’m a lone wolf now.” Zhang Yiming joked, patting Team Leader Qi’s shoulder. “Don’t forget about Mr. Qi here. He’s prime single-guy material. Your wife’s friends shouldn’t miss out.”

Team Leader Qi asked, “Mr. Qi, what type do you like?”

Qi Shi’an turned to Shen Duoyi. “Team Leader Shen, what do you think my type is?”

Shen Duoyi tightened his grip on his chopsticks, surprised by the direct question. The office was filled with colleagues; he never expected Qi Shi’an to ask him that.

Qi Shi’an prompted, “You all like sexy types. Guess mine.”

Shen Duoyi met his gaze and, with a hint of mischief, said, “It’s not about what type you like. You can’t always get what you want.”

He paused, then added, “Your brow and eyes suggest good fortune and strong relationships, but the dark circles from trading are affecting your romance luck, so…”

Zhang Yiming and Team Leader Qi were stunned.

Qi Shi’an played along. “So what? Don’t leave me hanging.”

Shen Duoyi’s eyes sparkled with mischief. “So your odds of finding a girlfriend are very low.”

Zhang Yiming sighed. “Poor Mr. Qi. Just don’t mess around in the office.”

Shen Duoyi lowered his gaze and began clearing his tray. “I have a client meeting to prepare for. I’m heading out.”

The seat next to Qi Shi’an emptied. He said to the others, “Team Leader Qi, let Zhang Yiming handle the wedding speech.”

With that, he left, catching up to Shen Duoyi. In the elevator, Shen Duoyi smiled unabashedly.

Qi Shi’an studied his face. “Your eyes suggest prosperity.”

Shen Duoyi glared playfully. “It’s just me and Grandpa. We’ve only recently made ends meet!”

“You’re still single. Your fortune’s coming.” Qi Shi’an’s gaze softened. “You have a small mole on your forehead. It means a big life change at 28.”

Shen Duoyi asked, “How big?”

The elevator door opened. Shen Duoyi stepped out, turned, and asked, “I’m almost 28. Any hints?”

Qi Shi’an’s eyes burned with intensity. “Your soulmate is here. You should hurry up and love him.”

The doors began to close. Shen Duoyi grinned mischievously. “Is he sexy?”