Chapter 31: The Mushroom Overlord's Mockery

Upon hearing the news that Zhou Dan intended to resign, the formidable figure known as Boss Mushroom—renowned for his sharp tongue and stingy demeanor—revealed an inscrutable, cold smirk. It was as if he had spotted a perfect opportunity to showcase his so-called “far-sighted” managerial prowess, as well as to mercilessly mock those “short-sighted” employees.

In the company’s conference room, Boss Mushroom hastily convened an urgent meeting, summoning the heads of all departments. Clearing his throat, he spoke with a tone bordering on mockery: “Colleagues, I have an important announcement. Our top-tier rendering artist, Zhou Dan, has decided to resign and become a food delivery rider! Ha! Can you believe this? It’s utterly laughable!”

The room fell into bewildered silence—some faces showed surprise, others confusion. Clearly pleased with the effect, Boss Mushroom continued his scornful tirade: “Hmph, a key technical backbone so highly valued in this company, throwing away a stable job to chase a life of sun and wind, full of uncertainty. This is the greatest insult to our company’s management capabilities!”

Pausing deliberately as if awaiting applause and agreement, he found only silence. No one was willing to pick up his bait. Awkwardly, he forced a smile and resumed his derision: “Zhou Dan, Zhou Dan, you disappoint me greatly. I thought you were smart, but you’ve proven to be a complete fool. Do you think the food delivery industry is a walk in the park? Let me tell you, it’s full of competition and danger. You, a tech geek, will only become a laughingstock there!”

Just as Boss Mushroom was speaking with fervor, someone interrupted, “Boss Mushroom, are you so passionate because Zhou Dan’s departure frightens you?”

The room instantly erupted into whispers and murmurs. Boss Mushroom’s face darkened like iron; his eyes widened, as if ready to spew fire. “Who said that? Step forward! Do you think I, Boss Mushroom, fear an employee who resigns? Ridiculous! Zhou Dan’s leaving has no impact on me. Our company is full of talent; losing him won’t stop the world from turning!”

Before he finished, a quiet voice muttered, “True, the world keeps turning, but your management skills? That’s another matter.”

Though soft-spoken, the remark pierced Boss Mushroom’s heart like a dagger. Furious, he slammed the table and stood, “Who said that? Show yourself! I’ll show you what real power is!”

Yet, no one responded. It was as if the room had reached an unspoken consensus to remain silent. Seeing this, Boss Mushroom sat back down, seething with resentment and helplessness.

After the meeting, alone in his office, Boss Mushroom found no peace. He began reflecting on his management style and attitude, realizing he had been excessively harsh and overbearing—always resorting to sarcasm and suppression toward employees. Such methods stifled and alienated the staff and left him isolated.

“I can’t go on like this,” he vowed silently. “I must change my approach and let the employees feel my care and respect.”

But change wasn’t easy. Though determined, Boss Mushroom didn’t know where to start. He began observing exemplary leaders, learning their management techniques. He tried to build more equal and friendly relationships with employees, listening to their opinions and suggestions.

Yet, these efforts did not immediately bear fruit. Employees’ impressions of him were deeply ingrained; they maintained a respectful distance and avoided much interaction.

Faced with this predicament, Boss Mushroom refused to give up. He persevered, hoping his actions would prove his transformation. He paid greater attention to employees’ work and life, offering support proactively. He organized team-building events to foster cohesion and unity.

Gradually, these efforts bore fruit. Employees sensed his change and their attitudes softened. They began to communicate and collaborate more freely, even offering constructive feedback.

However, just as Boss Mushroom believed he had succeeded in changing, Zhou Dan’s departure rang another alarm. He realized that while he had changed, he had yet to earn complete trust and reliance from his employees. More effort was needed to become a truly outstanding leader.

Determined to win back Zhou Dan’s heart and prove his sincerity, Boss Mushroom decided to visit him personally. Bearing earnestness and apology, he went to Zhou Dan’s home.

“Zhou Dan, I know I was harsh and mocking before,” Boss Mushroom said upon entering. “But I’ve changed, and I hope you’ll give me a chance to apologize and show my sincerity.”

Zhou Dan, moved by the genuine gaze, did not immediately accept but replied, “Boss Mushroom, I feel your change. But I’ve made my decision—I want to carve out a new path in a different field. I hope you respect my choice.”

Though disappointed, Boss Mushroom did not insist. “Very well, Zhou Dan. I respect your choice. But remember, wherever you work, keep your passion and pursuit of technology. I believe you will achieve even greater success in your new field.”

With that, he turned and left. Though he failed to bring Zhou Dan back, he gained a rare respect and trust. He understood that as a leader, one must care not only about employees’ work and abilities but also their hearts and needs. Only then can one truly win their trust and support.

Returning to the company, Boss Mushroom worked harder to alter his management style. He abandoned sarcasm and suppression, choosing to encourage and guide employees, inspiring their potential. He strived to create a positive, harmonious workplace where staff felt warmth and care, like being home.

These changes gradually earned employees’ recognition and praise. They worked and learned harder, contributing to the company’s growth. Boss Mushroom evolved from a harsh workplace bully into a respected and beloved leader.

Yet, just as he thought he had transformed successfully, an unexpected piece of news plunged him into embarrassment and dilemma again. Zhou Dan had achieved remarkable success in the food delivery industry—not only becoming an outstanding delivery rider but founding his own delivery platform. The news quickly spread throughout the company, sparking lively conversations.

“Ha! Look at Boss Mushroom, who mocked Zhou Dan before. Now Zhou Dan’s doing better than him!”

“Exactly! Zhou Dan is incredible! Not only did he refuse to be defeated by Boss Mushroom, he grew stronger with every setback!”

These remarks reached Boss Mushroom’s ears, filling him with awkwardness and helplessness. He realized a truth: in the workplace, mockery and suppression cannot truly defeat someone. Instead, they ignite the other’s fighting spirit and potential, making them stronger and better.

To reclaim his dignity, Boss Mushroom decided once more to meet Zhou Dan. With humility and a willingness to learn, he visited Zhou Dan’s delivery platform.

“Zhou Dan, I heard you’ve achieved tremendous success in the delivery business,” Boss Mushroom said upon arrival. “I came to ask—how did you do it?”

Looking into Boss Mushroom’s humble eyes, Zhou Dan felt touched. He understood that Boss Mushroom had genuinely changed. Smiling, he replied, “Boss Mushroom, there’s no secret. I simply stuck to my choice and belief, working hard at what I love. I believe that with dedication, success will come.”

Upon hearing this, Boss Mushroom’s heart suddenly cleared. He grasped the true reason behind Zhou Dan’s success: perseverance and belief. These words were like a beacon illuminating his path forward.

From then on, Boss Mushroom paid more attention to his inner self and convictions. He no longer blindly pursued fame or position but sought to appreciate life’s beauty and meaning. He endeavored to become a better person, achieving greater success at work and more happiness in life.

As for Zhou Dan, he continued to strive in the delivery industry, writing his own legendary story with sweat and effort. Though they had taken different roads, both achieved tremendous success in their realms. Their experiences proved to the world that in the workplace, mockery and suppression do not truly defeat anyone. Only by holding firm to one’s choices and beliefs can one go further, higher, and stronger.