My First Steps in Politics: A Dramatic Comeback

In June, a thunderstorm rolled through during the night. By morning, rainwater had pooled on the low-lying roads. I was wearing a short-sleeved T-shirt under a thin navy blazer. It was my first day reporting for work at the Energy Bureau, and I had gotten up extra early, afraid that being late on my very first day would leave a bad impression. I headed to the bureau in high spirits. Halfway there, a red Ferrari sped past me. I couldn't dodge in time, and the spray from the road soaked me from head to toe. I was a pitiful, bedraggled mess, drenched like a stray dog. I was furious. I was just about to curse when I saw the Ferrari pull over up ahead. I hurried over to demand an explanation. The window rolled halfway down, revealing the stunning face of a woman. The profanity on the tip of my tongue went straight back down my throat, and I managed a smile that looked even worse than a grimace.

The beauty tossed me several red hundred-yuan bills. "Sorry, I was in a rush and didn't notice the puddle. I got your clothes dirty. You can take them to the dry cleaner, or go to the mall and buy a new outfit." Then she stepped on the gas, and the red Ferrari disappeared in a flash, leaving me standing there, dumbfounded...