Chapter 682: I’ll Take You On A Tour
The Guangcheng Newspaper Office was nestled in the old city district of Guangcheng, an area that was once the bustling economic heart of the city. Even though newer, larger districts have sprung up over the years, this area was far from desolate.
On the contrary, due to its favorable ecological environment and proximity to renowned schools and the city’s cultural bureau, it had become a hub for cultural institutions. Unlike many organizations that relocated here later, the Guangcheng Newspaper Office had been a resident of this area since its inception.
The newspaper office’s long history was evident in its distinctive two-story triangular building, painted in a classic black and white color scheme. Gu Zi found the place with ease, locked her bicycle, and presented her credentials at the entrance. The middle-aged lady at the gate barely glanced at her before nonchalantly tossing her letter aside and letting her in.
Gu Zi felt a wave of relief. The people here seemed quite laid-back, making her feel that she had made the right choice in accepting this job. She ascended to the second floor, where Guan Xin was already waiting for her at the entrance. Dressed in her usual androgynous style and sporting a black felt hat, Guan Xin looked both playful and dashing.
Guan Xin led Gu Zi inside, introducing her to the various areas. “Over here are the offices of the editor-in-chief and deputy editor-in-chief. They’re often not in the office, so you won’t see them around now. When they do come in, I’ll introduce you. This area is our general office space, and my desk is over there, separated by a partition wall next to the editor’s office.
“But as a foreign language editor, your office is across from ours. Over there is your desk, and that small cubicle is the private office of your superior, Director Jiang. She’s a good person, but she likes her peace and quiet. When you need to submit or collect articles, just leave them on the right side of your desk, and she’ll pick them up herself.
“Let’s go downstairs and take a look at our archives and indoor photography studio. There’s not much going on today, so consider this a tour. Don’t be surprised if you don’t see many people around the office today, as many haven’t returned to work yet…”
Gu Zi followed Guan Xin downstairs for a tour. It seemed there was nothing else to do today other than familiarize herself with the Guangcheng Newspaper Office.
As they walked around, Gu Zi marveled at the newspaper office of this era. Although smaller than those of the future, it was fully equipped. This small building encompassed everything from article writing and editing to printing and distribution, which was quite impressive.
After the tour, Guan Xin led Gu Zi back to the second-floor editorial office. She retrieved a work badge from a drawer, which read “Foreign Language Editor Gu Zi.” Guan Xin casually and cheerfully said, “With this, you’re officially one of us!
“There’s no ceremony, but this badge carries weight. Our newspaper office operates on the principle of getting the job done. We don’t fuss over the rest.”
Gu Zi was delighted. She admired her reflection in the mirror, pleased with her appearance, before carefully storing her work badge. “What will I be doing today?”
She had already figured out that today was merely about reporting for duty and receiving her work badge. Guan Xin probably hadn’t prepared any work for her, or perhaps there was no work to be assigned. Regardless, she felt it was important to show her eagerness.
She found the job easy and stress-free, thanks to her proficiency in English and her strong professional skills. While the position was easy, it wasn’t something just anyone could do.
She knew she should cherish and value this job. She was also starting to enjoy the atmosphere. Compared to the inefficient and time-consuming jobs of the future, this job felt like a blessing.
Guan Xin picked up her camera, ready to head out for some fieldwork. She told Gu Zi, “You’re done for today. You can go home and wait for further instructions. When there’s work to be done, we’ll let you know.
“Just remember to come back for meetings. I have to go out now, so let’s go downstairs together. I was planning to treat you to a meal today, but let’s do it another time.”