Chapter 522 - 523: I Never Thought of Having a Woman Assist Me in My Career
"You have my gratitude." The President nodded, engaging in casual banter with a hint of fatigue, "Busy every single day. There’s never an end to the tasks. You’re lucky, spared from diplomacy, while this old dog is still running around."
"Yes." Di Mingzhe raised the corner of his mouth lightly, courteously saying, "Master, you must take good care of your health."
The President chuckled and patted his shoulder, "This old dog of mine might hold up a year or two longer. After that, it’s up to you. But you’re young; I’m sure you can handle it. For now, just focus on infrastructure, defense, and education. By the way, your proposal for changing the exam-oriented education system was excellent.
We’ve received a lot of positive feedback. The entire education department’s response was overwhelmingly favorable. Just as I thought, fresh ideas and innovative approaches come from the young."
"Not at all." Di Mingzhe humbly yet honestly replied, "Actually, everything was suggested by my third younger brother."
The President burst into laughter, pointing at him, "You three brothers, you’re the pillars of our country. Sooner or later, the Empire is going to be yours."
"Master, please refrain from saying that." Di Mingzhe slightly lowered his head, softly saying, "My second and third brothers merely contribute in their respective professional fields and would never interfere in anything else."
"No need to be modest." The President laughed, "The Di family established its foundations centuries ago, and I’m a progressive person. As long as the country prospers, I don’t care who holds power. More importantly, I have always intended for you to be my successor."
"I came to see you today to ask for leave." Di Mingzhe subtly changed the topic, "Someone in my house is sick. I want to take care of them for a while, and I’m planning to work on important official matters from home. What do you think?"
"Oh?" The President raised his eyebrows, "Who’s sick? An elder?"
"No." Di Mingzhe shook his head, "Just a minor issue."
The President laughed, "Since you’re calling it a small matter, why go out of your way to tell me? Just handle such matters yourself."
"Okay." Di Mingzhe nodded, standing up, "In that case, I’ll leave you be."
"Good." The President nodded, "Send them my regards."
"Yes." Di Mingzhe bowed his head slightly, "I’ll take my leave now."
"Hold on."
Just as Di Mingzhe was about to step away, the President called out to him.
With a benevolent smile, he asked, "Have you considered what we spoke about last time, about Lingling and you?"
"No." Di Mingzhe answered directly, "I truly have been too busy."
At his blunt reply, the President’s brow slightly furrowed in displeasure, "I understand you’re busy, but you’re not getting any younger. You must start considering this important lifelong matter. Lingling has liked you since you became my disciple. She even specifically studied diplomacy and learned multiple languages for you. When you become President, she would be an excellent aide."
Di Mingzhe gave a small, light laugh and replied very assertively, "Actually, I’ve always seen Lingling as a sister and moreover, I have never considered having a woman assist me in my career."
That reply effectively silenced the President.
"Haha," the President had no choice but to laugh, "Well said, it’s no wonder you’re my prized pupil. A real man should indeed think this way."
"I’ll take my leave now." Di Mingzhe nodded.