Reborn in 2000: I'm the Boss's Driver

On the last day of October, Lin Fan returned from Bai County.

This trip back was about Wang Juan's younger brother, Wang Lei—that kid got into a fight at school and broke someone's head. The other person's parents came to the school and said they wanted him expelled.

Lin Fan drove a Santana with a People's Armed Police license plate, taking Wang Juan and her parents directly to the school. The principal's attitude immediately softened upon seeing the license plate.

"Director Wang, about this matter..." The principal looked at Lin Fan, unsure of how to address him.

"My surname is Lin, and I work at the Finance Bureau." Lin Fan offered a cigarette. "Wang Lei is my girlfriend's younger brother. He's impulsive and has caused you trouble."

"Director Lin, you're too kind." The principal accepted the cigarette. "The main problem is that the other parents are being unreasonable and saying they'll call the police. Our school is in a difficult position."

"Where are the other parents? I'll go talk to them."

The principal led Lin Fan to the conference room. The other party's parents were both there; the man's face was ashen, and the woman was still wiping away tears.

"Gentlemen, I'm Wang Lei's brother-in-law." Lin Fan sat down. "The kids got into a fight because we didn't raise them properly. How about this: we'll cover all the medical expenses and give them an extra thousand yuan for nutritional supplements. The kids are still young, please give them a chance."

"One thousand?" The man's eyes widened. "My son needed eight stitches. What if he has a scar?"

"Then name a number," Lin Fan said calmly.

"Twenty thousand! Not a penny less!"

Lin Fan glanced at the principal, who gently shook his head—this was clearly an attempt to extort money.

"How about this," Lin Fan thought for a moment, "Medical expenses will be reimbursed, plus an additional 1,500 yuan in compensation. If you think that's acceptable, we can sign the agreement now. If not, then we can call the police and go through legal proceedings. But I remind you, fighting is a two-way street, and if it really comes to an investigation, it's not certain who started it."

These words were veiled in barbs. The other parents fell silent.

After some haggling, he was paid 2,000 yuan in compensation. Lin Fan counted the money on the spot and signed the settlement agreement.

As they left the school, Wang Juan's father kept sighing, "Xiao Fan, you've spent money again."

"Uncle, things that money can solve aren't really problems," Lin Fan said. "The key is Xiao Lei; he needs to be properly disciplined. This time it's just losing money, but what if something serious happens next time?"

"Yes, yes, I'll beat him up when we get back."

"Hitting him won't work; you have to reason with him," Lin Fan said. "Xiao Lei isn't a bad kid; he's just going through a rebellious phase of puberty. If you talk to him nicely, he'll listen."

Back in the village, Wang Lei stood in the courtyard with his head down. He was a tall, thin sixteen-year-old boy.

"Brother-in-law..." Wang Lei called out softly.

"Do you know you were wrong?" Lin Fan asked.

"understood."

Do you know what you did wrong?

"They shouldn't have fought."

"Anything else?"

Wang Lei fell silent.

Lin Fan patted him on the shoulder: "Men can fight, but they can't fight randomly. If you fight, you have to have a reason, and if you fight, you have to bear the consequences. I'll pay for your two thousand today. But you have to remember, this money isn't for nothing, it's what you owe me. When you grow up and start earning money, you'll have to pay it back."

Wang Lei looked up, his eyes red: "Brother-in-law, I will definitely repay you."

"Not only do you have to pay back the money, but you also have to be successful," Lin Fan said. "Study hard, go to university. When you're capable in the future, help your sister and your parents. That's what makes a man."

"Yes!" Wang Lei nodded vigorously.

Wang Juan watched from the side, her eyes also reddening. She hadn't expected Lin Fan to handle things this way—not scolding or hitting, but reasoning with him and giving her brother a chance to correct his mistakes.

We had dinner at Wang Juan's house that evening. Wang Lei proactively poured wine for Lin Fan, and his attitude was much more respectful.

"Brother-in-law, let me toast you."

"You're not an adult yet, so a soft drink is fine." Lin Fan picked up his glass. "I'll drink this one to celebrate you growing a year older and becoming more sensible."

Watching this scene, Wang Juan's mother secretly wiped away tears. Her daughter had found a good partner, and even her son had become more sensible.

On the way back to Gangcheng the next day, Wang Juan held Lin Fan's hand the whole time.

"Lin Fan, thank you."

"No need for thanks, we're family, no need for formalities."

"I'll pay you back for my brother's money later."

"Here we go again," Lin Fan laughed. "We're getting engaged soon, so what's mine is yours. Besides, two thousand for a lesson is worth it. As long as Xiao Lei stays on the right path in the future, this money won't be wasted."

"Mmm." Wang Juan leaned on his shoulder. "Lin Fan, you're so kind."

"You just found out?"

"I already knew, and now I know even more."

It was already 3 PM when they returned to the steel city. Lin Fan first took Wang Juan back to her shop, and then went back to his workplace.

Zhou Wenyuan was in his office when he saw him return and asked, "Have you finished dealing with things?"

"It's all settled, and I got two thousand in compensation," Lin Fan said. "The other parents initially asked for twenty thousand, but we negotiated it down to two thousand."

"Not many." Zhou Wenyuan nodded. "It's normal for young people to fight, as long as nothing serious happens. By the way, we got news from Hong Kong."

"What news?"

"Tencent's stock has gone up again," Zhou Wenyuan laughed. "It's three dollars and eighty cents now. We bought more than 400,000 shares and made more than 200,000 Hong Kong dollars."

Lin Fan was secretly delighted: "It's only been a few days and it's already increased this much?"

"That's why I say you have a sharp eye," Zhou Wenyuan said. "President Wang called me today and said the stock you bought was amazing; it went up as soon as I bought it. Several of their account managers also bought it."

"That's great, let's all make money together."

"However, Xiao Lin," Zhou Wenyuan said seriously, "Stocks are like that, it's normal for them to go up and down. Don't be too happy when you make money, and don't be too sad when you lose money. We're holding them for the long term, there's no rush."

"I understand," Lin Fan said. "Brother Zhou, there's something else I'd like to discuss with you."

"What is it?"

"I want to get engaged to Wang Juan," Lin Fan said. "Her parents have been urging me to get engaged several times, and my parents have agreed. It's just that I'm not old enough to get a marriage certificate right now, so we're getting engaged first."

Zhou Wenyuan laughed: "Great news! When will it be held?"

"Next month, after her new store opens," Lin Fan said. "We'll have a simple dinner with a few tables for relatives and friends."

"Okay, I'll definitely go then." Zhou Wenyuan took out a red envelope from the drawer. "Take this first, it's a small token of my appreciation."

Lin Fan quickly declined, "Brother Zhou, you absolutely mustn't..."

"Just take it." Zhou Wenyuan stuffed the red envelope into his hand. "Why are we being so polite? Your engagement is a joyous occasion, and as your older brother, I have to show my appreciation."

Lin Fan then accepted it: "Well... thank you, Brother Zhou."

After leaving the office, Lin Fan went to the garage. Sure enough, there were a few more boxes—ten packs of Zhonghua cigarettes, six cases of Wuliangye liquor, and two cases of imported fruit.

He skillfully sorted the items, placing cigarettes and alcohol on the shelves and loading fruit into the car, ready to take them home.

Just as I was busy, Zhao Xiaowen strolled in again.

"Lin Fan, you're back?"

"Just got back." Lin Fan wiped his sweat. "Xiaowen, is something wrong?"

"Can't I come see you if there's nothing wrong?" Zhao Xiaowen laughed. "I heard you went to Bai County? Playing the hero, huh?"

"What hero saving a damsel in distress? It was just dealing with some family matters." Lin Fan took two apples out of the fruit box. "Here, they're imported, have a taste."

Zhao Xiaowen took a bite of the apple. "Mmm, it's so sweet. Lin Fan, you have so many good things here."

"It's nothing, just gifts from others," Lin Fan said. "Xiaowen, if you need anything, just tell me. Tobacco, alcohol, tea, and candy—I have plenty."

"I don't want any of that," Zhao Xiaowen said. "I just love snacking and eating fruit. Lin Fan, you're so good to me."

"You helped me gather information, so I can't treat you unfairly," Lin Fan said with a smile. "But Xiaowen, don't keep going to the garage like that; it's not good if someone sees you."

"Okay," Zhao Xiaowen waved her hand. "I'll head back now."

Just then, my phone rang. It was Wang Juan.

"Lin Fan, come to the shop tonight? I need to talk to you about something."

"What's up?"

You'll see when you get here.

At 6 p.m., Lin Fan went to the Donghe Wholesale Market. Wang Juan's new store, "Juan·Time Lifestyle Store," was almost finished with renovations and was being stocked with goods.

The shop isn't large, just over 80 square meters, but it's tastefully decorated. Light colors, warm lighting, and well-arranged shelves. The clothes, bags, and accessories are tastefully coordinated.

"How is it?" Wang Juan asked.

"Not bad, it's classy." Lin Fan looked around. "This renovation must have cost a lot of money, right?"

"Fifty thousand," Wang Juan said, "but it's worth it. Lin Fan, I'm thinking of opening next Saturday, is that alright?"

"Sure, you set the date."

"Well..." Wang Juan paused, "I'd like to take care of the engagement on the opening day as well."

Lin Fan was taken aback: "The same day?"

"Mmm." Wang Juan blushed. "It's a double celebration! We're inviting friends for the opening and relatives for the engagement, so we're having it all together. It'll be so lively."

"That's a great idea," Lin Fan laughed. "It's convenient and lively. But Juan'er, an engagement requires a ring, and I haven't bought one yet."

"There's no rush for a ring," Wang Juan said. "It's just a formality; it's fine whether you have one or not."

"That won't do. We need to have everything we need," Lin Fan said. "How about this, I'll see if I can ask someone to buy them in Hong Kong. The rings there are nicer and cheaper."

"Don't waste your money," Wang Juan said. "Just buy any old one."

"Listen to me," Lin Fan said, taking her hand. "Engagement is a big deal; it can't be taken lightly."

The two stayed in the shop until after 8 p.m., discussing all the details of the opening and engagement. They listed out who to invite, how many tables to set up, and what to buy, item by item.

Wang Juan was taking notes in her notebook, writing very diligently. Lin Fan felt a warmth in his heart watching her focused expression.

This is the girl he wants to marry—down-to-earth, capable, and not greedy.

After leaving the store, Lin Fan escorted Wang Juan back to her place. On the way, Wang Juan said, "Lin Fan, my parents are coming next weekend for the opening and engagement."

"Okay, let them stay a few more days," Lin Fan said. "They can stay in the apartment I bought; it's just sitting empty anyway."

"That's not good..."

"What's wrong with that? We'll be family sooner or later," Lin Fan said. "Juan'er, let's move into our new house after we get engaged. Living in the warehouse all the time isn't a good idea."

Wang Juan blushed even more: "We're not even married yet, and we're already living together. People will gossip."

"What's there to be afraid of? We're officially engaged," Lin Fan said. "Besides, that house was originally bought for the two of us; we'll have to live there sooner or later."

"We'll see when the time comes," Wang Juan said softly.

Lin Fan dropped Wang Juan off downstairs and watched her go inside before driving home.

It was past nine o'clock when I got home. My parents were still awake, watching TV in the living room.

"Xiao Fan's back?" his mother asked. "Have you eaten?"

"I ate, I ate with Wang Juan." Lin Fan sat down. "Dad, Mom, I need to discuss something with you. Wang Juan wants to open her new store next Saturday and hold her engagement ceremony at the same time."

"The same day?" the mother asked in surprise. "Is it too late?"

"There's enough time, she's got everything arranged," Lin Fan said. "She'll invite friends for the opening, relatives for the engagement, and have it all together, it'll be lively."

"That's a good idea," the father nodded. "Double happiness. We need to make preparations, the bride price and gifts are essential."

"I've prepared the bride price, 18,000 yuan," Lin Fan said. "Wang Juan said it's just a token amount, not too much."

"Eighteen thousand, no more, no less, just right," the mother said. "Xiao Fan, have you bought the ring yet?"

"Not yet, I'm planning to ask someone to buy it in Hong Kong."

"Aren't things expensive in Hong Kong?"

"It's cheaper, cheaper than here," Lin Fan said. "Mom, don't worry, I've arranged everything."

"Okay, I trust you to handle things." The mother smiled. "My son has grown up and is getting engaged."

Back in his room, Lin Fan began to plan. Engagement, opening the business, buying a ring in Hong Kong, stock investments… there were quite a few things to do.

But none of them are difficult; just take it one step at a time.

My phone rang. It was a text message from Zhou Wenyuan: "Xiao Lin, are you free tomorrow? Section Chief Wu's son is getting married and he invited me to the wedding banquet. Will you come with me?"

Lin Fan replied, "I'll go with you if I have time."

"Okay, I'll introduce you to a few people later, they're all heads of various departments in the city, so you can get acquainted with them."

"Thank you, Brother Zhou."

Putting down his phone, Lin Fan understood. Section Chief Wu's son was getting married; this was a good opportunity to build relationships. Zhou Wenyuan taking him meant he truly considered him family.

This is what he wants—to gain a foothold within the system, to have a powerful backer, and to have connections.

Over the next few days, Lin Fan was extremely busy.

During the day, she works, handles daily tasks, and accompanies Zhou Wenyuan to various meetings. In the evenings, she helps Wang Juan prepare for the opening of her new store and also makes arrangements for her engagement.

Fortunately, Zhou Wenyuan helped out—upon hearing that Lin Fan was getting engaged, Zhou Wenyuan offered, "I'll book the hotel for you, Juxianlou. I know the owner well, I can give you a discount."

"Thank you, Brother Zhou, I'm so sorry to trouble you again."

"No trouble at all, I'm happy you're engaged," Zhou Wenyuan said. "By the way, I've taken care of the ring for you."

"How was it resolved?"

"I asked President Wang of China Construction Bank for help. He has acquaintances in Hong Kong, and he brought it back in half a day," Zhou Wenyuan said.

"That's wonderful!" Lin Fan said excitedly. "Brother Zhou, you're truly my benefactor."

"Don't give me that." Zhou Wenyuan laughed.

The ring arrived as expected the next day. It was a platinum ring, set with a circle of small diamonds, simple and elegant. The invoice read: Chow Tai Fook, HKD 12,000.

"So expensive?" Lin Fan was startled.

"It's cheaper in Hong Kong, only a little over ten thousand yuan," said Xiao Li, who delivered the ring. "Mr. Lin, this ring would sell for at least eighteen thousand yuan in mainland China."

Lin Fan was relieved. He took out the cash he had prepared beforehand and said, "Xiao Li, thank you for your hard work."

By the way, President Wang asked me to tell you that Tencent's stock has risen to 4.2 yuan.

"It's gone up again?" Lin Fan exclaimed in surprise.

"Yes, your investment acumen is amazing." Xiao Li gave a thumbs up. "Several of our clients followed your advice and made money."

After seeing Xiao Li off, Lin Fan looked at the ring in his hand, feeling very happy. He had made money on stocks, bought the ring, and the engagement was all arranged.

I'm just waiting for Saturday.

On Friday evening, Lin Fan picked up his parents and brought them to Juxianlou Restaurant to meet Wang Juan's parents. This was a formal meeting before the engagement, and both sets of parents took it very seriously.

Wang Juan's parents wore new clothes and looked very smart. Lin Fan's parents were also very polite, addressing him as "in-laws" affectionately.

At the dinner table, both sets of parents discussed the engagement details. The bride price was 18,000 yuan, the three gold pieces would be purchased separately, and a six-table banquet would be held at a hotel to invite relatives and friends.

"Xiao Fan, Juan'er, do you have any requests?" Lin Fan's father asked.

"I didn't ask for anything," Wang Juan said softly.

"Me neither," Lin Fan said. "Keep it simple."

"That won't do," Wang Juan's mother said. "Engagement is a big deal, and everything that's expected must be done. But Xiao Fan's family is well-off, so we won't ask for too much; we'll just follow the proper etiquette."

"Don't worry, my dear in-law, everything you need is provided," Lin Fan's mother said. "We only have one son, Xiao Fan, so we certainly can't let Juan'er suffer."

The meal was a pleasant and harmonious affair. The parents from both sides got along very well and almost set a wedding date on the spot.

Finally, Lin Fan reminded us, "Dad, Mom, Uncle, Aunt, Juan'er and I aren't old enough yet. We have to wait until next year to get our marriage certificate."

"Yes, yes, let's get engaged first and then get married next year," Wang Juan's father said. "No rush, let the children date."

After dinner, Lin Fan escorted Wang Juan's parents back to their residence. On the way, Wang Juan's father said, "Xiao Fan, some of my relatives and friends will be coming on the day of the engagement. Perhaps... perhaps some of them will say something that isn't pleasant to hear. Please bear with them."

"Don't worry, Uncle, I know what I'm doing," Lin Fan said. "Rural relatives are all honest and straightforward, I understand."

"That's good." Wang Juan's father sighed. "Juan'er is lucky to have found someone like you."

"Uncle, it's my good fortune to have found a wife like Juan'er."

After seeing Wang Juan's parents off, Lin Fan went home. His parents were still waiting for him in the living room.

"Xiao Fan, Wang Juan is a really good girl," her mother said. "She's sensible, hardworking, and not greedy. Her parents are also honest people."

"Yes, I think it's good too," the father said. "Xiao Fan, you have good taste."

"That's right." Lin Fan smiled. "You two should get some rest; you'll be busy tomorrow."

Back in his room, Lin Fan took out the ring and examined it. Under the light, the diamond sparkled.

Tomorrow, he and Wang Juan will get engaged. Although they can't register their marriage yet, this ceremony will make them a recognized couple.

The wedding I owed her in my past life, I must make up for in this one. The engagement is just the beginning; there will be a wedding, and a lifetime to come.

Lost in thought, Lin Fan fell asleep. In his dream, he put a ring on Wang Juan's finger, and she smiled sweetly...

Saturday was a particularly nice day.

At 10:00 AM, "Juan Time Lifestyle Store" officially opened. The entrance was filled with flower baskets, and a red carpet was laid out on the ground. Wang Juan, wearing a newly bought beige trench coat, stood at the door to greet guests.

Lin Fan also arrived and helped greet the guests. Xiao Fang, Xiao Li, and Xiao Yan also came, dressed in matching work clothes, and bustled about.

At 10:30, the ribbon-cutting ceremony began. Wang Juan picked up the scissors, her hands trembling slightly.

"Don't be nervous," Lin Fan whispered in her ear.

"Hmm." Wang Juan took a deep breath and cut the red silk.

Applause erupted, and firecrackers popped. The new store officially opened.

Customers entered the store one after another. They were all Wang Juan's regular customers, as well as colleagues from the wholesale market. Everyone praised the exquisite decoration and novel styles.

"Sister Juan, your shop is really high-class."

"Yes, it's just as good as those big shopping malls."

"The clothes are nice too, let me try one on."

Wang Juan was busy greeting guests, a smile always on her face. Lin Fan watched from the side, feeling particularly proud.

At 11:00 AM, the opening ceremony came to an end. Wang Juan asked the staff to watch the store while she went to Juxianlou with Lin Fan.

The engagement banquet was held here, with six tables filled with relatives and friends.

Zhou Wenyuan arrived, bringing with him several bureau chiefs—Director Li from the Industry and Commerce Bureau, Director Zhang from the Tax Bureau, and Deputy Director Wang from the Public Security Bureau. He had specially invited them to support Lin Fan.

"Xiao Lin, congratulations!" Zhou Wenyuan patted Lin Fan on the shoulder. "This must be Wang Juan, right? She's a really nice girl."

"Hello, Director Zhou." Wang Juan was a little reserved.

"Don't call me Director, call me Brother Zhou," Zhou Wenyuan laughed. "From now on, we're family."

The other bureau chiefs also offered their congratulations and presented red envelopes. Lin Fan thanked them one by one and told Wang Juan to accept them.

The engagement ceremony was simple. Both sets of parents gave speeches, Lin Fan and Wang Juan exchanged rings, and that concluded the ceremony.

When Lin Fan put the ring on Wang Juan's finger, Wang Juan burst into tears.

"Why are you crying? It's something to be happy about," Lin Fan said softly.

"I'm so happy." Wang Juan wiped away her tears. "Lin Fan, thank you."

"Silly girl."

The banquet began, and everyone toasted each other in a lively atmosphere. Lin Fan, along with Wang Juan, went from table to table toasting and introducing relatives and friends.

When the toast reached Zhou Wenyuan's table, Zhou Wenyuan stood up and said, "Everyone, let me raise a glass. I've watched Xiao Lin grow up; he's a hardworking and reliable young man with a bright future. Wang Juan is also a good girl; they're a perfect match. I wish them a happy marriage and a long and happy life together!"

"Cheers!"

Everyone raised their glasses. Lin Fan felt a warm glow in his heart; Zhou Wenyuan was standing up for him in front of so many people.

Halfway through the banquet, Deputy County Head Wu came over with a wine glass.

"Director Zhou, Xiao Lin, congratulations!"

"County Magistrate Wu, you've arrived." Lin Fan quickly stood up. "How are you recovering?"

"Much better," Section Chief Wu smiled. "Xiao Lin, I heard you're getting engaged, so I came here specifically to ask for a drink at your wedding."

"It is my honor to have you here."

County Chief Wu had a drink with Lin Fan, and then with Zhou Wenyuan. The two chatted for a few minutes, and the atmosphere was pleasant.

The banquet lasted until 3 p.m. After seeing the guests off, Lin Fan and Wang Juan returned to the new store.

There were still customers in the shop; business was good. Wang Juan told the staff to go eat and rest, while she and Lin Fan watched the shop.

"Are you tired?" Lin Fan asked.

"I'm not tired, I'm happy." Wang Juan looked at the ring on her hand. "Lin Fan, this ring is really beautiful."

"I'm glad you like her." Lin Fan hugged her. "Juan'er, from today onwards, you are my fiancée."

"Mmm." Wang Juan leaned on his shoulder. "Lin Fan, I will treat you well."

"I will treat you well too."

The two stayed in the shop until evening. They tallied up the figures: on the first day of opening, the turnover was over eight thousand. Although it couldn't compare to the established shops, it was already quite good for a new business.

"At this rate, earning 20,000 to 30,000 a month shouldn't be a problem," Wang Juan calculated.

"Take your time, no rush," Lin Fan said. "Juan'er, let your parents stay a few more days."

"Yes, I'll stay until next Wednesday."

"Then let them live in our apartment; it's just sitting empty anyway."

"Okay, I'll ask them tomorrow if they're willing to go."

That evening, Lin Fan escorted Wang Juan and her parents back to their lodgings. Wang Juan's parents lived in a small, poorly furnished room in the warehouse.

"Uncle and Aunt, I'll pick you up tomorrow and let you stay at my place," Lin Fan said. "The house is all ready, you can move in right away."

"That's so embarrassing..." said Wang Juan's mother.

"There's nothing to be embarrassed about, we're family," Lin Fan said. "It's rare for you two to come all this way, you should make sure you're comfortable."

Wang Juan's father patted Lin Fan on the shoulder: "Xiao Fan, you're very thoughtful."

After dropping off Wang Juan and her family, Lin Fan drove home. His parents were still awake and waiting for him in the living room.

"Xiao Fan, you must be exhausted today?"

"It's alright." Lin Fan sat down. "Dad, Mom, thank you for your hard work today."

"What's so tiring? I'm happy," the mother smiled. "I like Wang Juan more and more the more I look at her. Her parents are also very down-to-earth and easy to get along with."

"Yes." The father nodded. "Xiao Fan, now that you're engaged, you're an adult. You need to be more mature from now on."

"I know."

Back in his room, Lin Fan lay on the bed, reflecting on the day. The opening went smoothly, the engagement went smoothly, everything was so perfect.

The phone rang; it was a text message from Zhou Wenyuan: "Xiao Lin, you did a great job today. County Chief Wu is also very satisfied with you. Your work will be much easier to carry out in the future."

Lin Fan replied, "Thank you, Brother Zhou. It's all thanks to your guidance."

"You're the one who's doing well. Get some rest, you have to go to work tomorrow."

"Okay, Brother Zhou, you should get some rest too."

Lin Fan put down his phone and looked out the window. Night had fallen, and countless lights were twinkling in the sky.

On this day, he turned twenty-one, had a career, a fiancée, and a mentor.

Although there are still many things to do—stock investments, career development, and the marriage with Wang Juan—there's no rush; we'll take it one step at a time.

This is the life he wants: steady and reliable.

Lost in thought, Lin Fan fell asleep. A smile played on his lips as he dreamt of a beautiful future.

Tomorrow will be another new day. And he is ready.