Chapter 28: Chapter 29: I Like New Cars, Not Used Ones!
"1: No need, Sister Xia. I have money to buy it myself, but thank you for your kindness."
"2: Wrapping my arm around her waist, I took the car keys and said domineeringly but gently: 'Are you trying to take care of me, Sister Xia? I am quite expensive!'"
"3: It won't work, Sister Xia. I can't take advantage of you without earning it. Plus, I prefer new cars, not used ones!"
"No need, Sister Xia. I have money to buy it myself, but thank you for your kindness."
Shen Lang smiled and waved his hand, refusing. He almost chose option 3 just now.
This sentence seemed fine on the surface, as Shen Lang didn't like used things, whether it was cars or anything else. But given Xia Shuyi's special status as a divorced woman with a child, such a reply would imply that he didn't like women who had been married before.
Indeed, the system's options were not always straightforward; a slight misstep could lead to an explosive response.
"That's not it, Xiao Shen. I just wanted to help you with your financial burden," Xia Shuyi said earnestly. "I don't know what your parents do, but 300,000 yuan in savings is quite a debt for you. You'll also have to repay car loans monthly. How can you manage on a few thousand yuan a month?"
"It's not like that, Sister. I don't need a loan; I can pay for the car in full," Shen Lang explained with a smile. "I don't spend much money usually. Since graduation, I've saved up quite a bit, so buying this car isn't too stressful."
"Alright then," Xia Shuyi sighed helplessly, but she still handed Shen Lang the silver-gray car key.
"Really, Sister, it's not necessary..."
"Stop it," Xia Shuyi interrupted with mock reproach. "My car is parked in the community lot. Since you want this model, let's drive mine so you can practice."
"Well... thank you, Sister Xia," Shen Lang accepted the car key.
They went to the community parking lot, and Shen Lang immediately spotted the Mercedes-Benz. However, the car's paint was lava red, whereas he preferred time silver.
Once in the car, Shen Lang admired the refined interior with curiosity and delight. "This car's interior is really nice, Sister. So cool!"
"It's just a means of transportation," Xia Shuyi said, glancing at him with gentle reproach. "You boys save up hard to buy a car just for its looks?"
"Heh heh, pretty much," Shen Lang laughed sheepishly.
Starting the engine, Shen Lang nervously gripped the steering wheel, listening to the engine roar. Like many young people, Shen Lang hadn't driven much since getting his license, let alone driving out.
After a while, he managed to back the car out, nearly scratching a white Volkswagen beside them.
"It's okay, relax," Xia Shuyi gently held Shen Lang's hand, patiently comforting him. "If you can't do it, let me drive. Don't stress yourself out."
"Okay."
In this materialistic society, it's no wonder many men prefer older women. They are so understanding, always showing their gentle tolerance when men feel helpless and weak.
Encouraged by Xia Shuyi, Shen Lang gradually got a handle on the steering wheel and smoothly exited the underground parking lot.
"Sister, do you spend your days collecting rent and stuff? You should take Mengmeng out for trips, right?"
As they drove the Benz onto the road, Shen Lang broke the silence.
"I remember kindergarten holidays are coming up. Are you taking Mengmeng on a trip?"
"We used to during long holidays, but it's become less frequent in recent years," Xia Shuyi said with regret, her gentle gaze on Shen Lang. "Some places in the country aren't safe now. It's just me and Mengmeng, and I can't handle any trouble if something happens."
"I see," Shen Lang said, scratching his nose, thinking of changing the topic.
"And the property manager of our community resigned recently. I need to find a replacement," Xia Shuyi added, tidying her dress calmly.
"Really? Our community manager resigned?" Shen Lang recalled. "I don't remember that. I saw him just the other day when I was buying breakfast."
"Not this community. The Yulong Bay community in the city center. That's also mine," Xia Shuyi said, brushing her hair aside.
Shen Lang: "....."
.....
It only took ten minutes to drive from the community to the 4S shop. However, due to Shen Lang's poor driving skills, it took them half an hour.
A well-dressed man enthusiastically directed Shen Lang to park in their exclusive lot.
After parking the Mercedes, the man knocked on the passenger window and helped open the door, skillfully shielding Xia Shuyi from the door frame.
"Hello, Sister Xia. Long time no see."
After they got out, the man glanced at Shen Lang, whom he didn't recognize, and quickly focused on Xia Shuyi.
"Sister Xia, you mentioned looking at cars. Which model are you interested in?"
"My friend is looking," Xia Shuyi pointed to Shen Lang. "Please show him around."
"Oh, alright," the man quickly shifted his enthusiasm to Shen Lang, offering him a cigarette.
"Hey there, care for a smoke? Which car are you interested in? I'll give you a good tour."
In Jiang Hai City, wealthy women bringing young men to buy cars wasn't uncommon.
"No thanks, I don't smoke," Shen Lang declined, feeling uneasy with the man's eager attitude.
"Good, smoking's bad for you," the man said without a trace of awkwardness, still enthusiastically leading them inside.
"He's the general manager of this 4S shop," Xia Shuyi whispered to Shen Lang. "Just tell him what car you want. No need to worry about the paperwork."