Han Ming felt this was probably the most unpleasant waiting time for a meal he had ever experienced. Eating should be such a pleasant thing, especially in such a luxuriously decorated and warm place. Yet, this upcoming meal was putting him under so much pressure, making him feel extremely uncomfortable.
He sat in the soft, comfortable chair, yet felt as if he were sitting on pins and needles. His gaze wandered, avoiding eye contact with those around him. The elegant music and the soft whispers of the people in the restaurant sounded particularly jarring to him at that moment.
Han Ming unconsciously tugged at his collar, trying to breathe more easily. His palms were sweaty, and he kept wiping them on his trousers. He kept wondering what this meal meant. Was it a rare opportunity, or an unknown test?
Just then, a waiter approached with a smile and poured him a glass of water. Han Ming forced a smile to express his gratitude, picked up the glass to take a sip, but found his hand trembling slightly, and he almost spilled the water. He took a deep breath, trying to calm himself down.
The others at the table seemed relaxed, chatting and laughing. Han Ming, however, could only feign composure, occasionally joining in with a smile, but his mind was a complete mess. He secretly observed the expressions of those around him, trying to glean some information from their words and actions, but everyone seemed so inscrutable.
Time seemed to stretch on endlessly, each second an agonizing ordeal. Han Ming kept trying to encourage himself, telling himself to stay calm and handle things with composure. But the invisible pressure clung to him relentlessly, making it impossible for him to truly relax.
Finally, the dishes began to be served one after another. Each exquisite dish was laid out before him, emitting an enticing aroma, but Han Ming had no appetite. He mechanically picked up his chopsticks, unsure which dish to begin with.
The people next to him greeted him warmly, "Don't be shy, have a taste." Han Ming nodded, picked up a small bite of food and put it in his mouth, but couldn't taste anything.
As the meal progressed, the conversation gradually unfolded. People began discussing business matters, and Han Ming perked up, listening attentively to everyone's remarks and considering how to appropriately participate in the discussion. Every time he wanted to speak, a wave of nervousness washed over him, fearing he might say the wrong thing.
"Han Ming, what are your thoughts on this project?" someone suddenly asked him.
Han Ming's heart tightened. He quickly organized his thoughts and then cautiously said, "I think this project has great potential, but there are also some problems that need to be solved..." As he spoke, he observed everyone's reactions.
Some nodded slightly in agreement, while others looked thoughtful. Han Ming's heart pounded again, wondering if his answer would satisfy them.
As the discussion deepened, Han Ming gradually settled into the flow, no longer as nervous as he had been at the beginning. He began to express his views more confidently and exchange ideas with everyone. However, the pressure deep inside him never completely dissipated.
After the meal, Han Ming felt as if he had gone through a great battle, utterly exhausted both physically and mentally. When the meal ended and he stepped out of the restaurant, he took a deep breath of fresh air, as if he had been freed from a heavy cage.
Back home, Han Ming lay on the sofa, reflecting on the day's events. He understood that this was a challenge he had to face on his path to growth. Although the process was difficult, it was also a valuable learning opportunity. He secretly resolved to handle such situations with greater composure and confidence in the future.
Over the next few days, Han Ming reflected on the discussions at the dinner, further refining his views and ideas. He also gathered relevant information through various channels, making thorough preparations for potential future collaborations.
Just as he was fully immersed in his work, he received a phone call. The caller was an important figure from the previous dinner party, who praised his performance and expressed a willingness to further explore the possibility of cooperation.
As Han Ming listened to the phone call, a surge of joy and excitement welled up inside him. He knew that his efforts had not been in vain, and this might be a new beginning.
In the days that followed, Han Ming engaged in a series of communications and negotiations with the other party. Although the process was still full of challenges and difficulties, he was no longer as nervous and helpless as he had been the first time. With his professional knowledge and unwavering belief, he gradually won the other party's trust and recognition.
After a period of effort, both parties finally reached a preliminary cooperation agreement. Looking at the draft agreement in his hand, Han Ming felt a great sense of accomplishment. He knew this was just the beginning, and many more challenges awaited him. But he was prepared and confidently faced the future.
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