Chapter 275

Yu Chao came out very quickly—indeed, in less than half a minute. He rushed out of the office, looking astonished from afar, and asked, “Brother Dong, it really is you!”
“Could it be a ghost?” Xie Wendong laughed. Yu Chao tapped his forehead and hurriedly said, “Please come in!” Seeing the boss politely invite this strange young man into his office, the two receptionists at the front desk were shocked and secretly wondered who he was, glad they hadn’t been rude just now. Before entering the office, Xie Wendong noticed a beautiful woman sitting by the desk at the entrance. She was dressed in a white dress, with flowing black hair and especially bright, sparkling eyes. He was familiar with her—she had once been his secretary for a while. Unfortunately, back then he wasn’t focused on legitimate business, and Yu Chao clearly had an interest in her. Xie Wendong did him a favor and gave her to Yu Chao. He stopped and said with a smile, “It’s been some time—you’re still as radiant as ever!” Then he turned to Yu Chao jokingly, “Take good care of such a beauty. Don’t let her slip away like a kitten.” Yu Chao blushed and said confidently, “My eyes are always sharp.” The woman blushed at their comments and shyly lowered her head, fiddling with the pens on the desk with her delicate fingers. Seeing this, Xie Wendong smiled and walked into the office alongside Yu Chao. Chen Baicheng glanced at the woman out of the corner of his eye. He had been there many times, but every time he saw her, he was struck by her stunning beauty—the mature yet delicate vibe she exuded left him utterly captivated. He shook his head secretly, envying Yu Chao’s good luck.
Once inside, Yu Chao wanted to let Xie Wendong sit in his boss’s chair, but the latter shook his head and smiled, saying, “You’re the boss now—this seat belongs to you.”
Yu Chao rolled his eyes and said innocently, “Although I’m the boss, I’m not as powerful as you, the mastermind behind the scenes. With you here, how would I dare?”

Xie Wendong didn’t want to argue with him. He sat down on the sofa beside him and gently rubbed his temples. Having just gotten off the plane, he was somewhat tired and casually asked, “How’s business in DL these days?” At the mention of business, Yu Chao immediately perked up, his eyes shining as he said seriously, “This place is a gold mine.” “Oh?” Xie Wendong raised an eyebrow and asked, “How so?” Yu Chao replied, “There’s gold everywhere in DL; it just depends on how you pick it up. Not long ago, I took on a real estate project and sold it within just a month, making over two million in profit easily. Brother Dong, don’t you think it’s quick to make money here?!” Xie Wendong blinked. He wasn’t familiar with DL’s situation, let alone understanding real estate projects, but he understood making two million in just a month. He said, “If it’s that easy, then go take on more!” Yu Chao shook his head. “It’s not that simple. This time I was lucky and got a good deal. Next time, such opportunities will be hard to find. Taking on a real estate project requires vision, luck, and a lot of working capital…” Xie Wendong waved his hand to interrupt him and said, “I trust your vision. We’ve always had good luck. As for money, it’s not a problem. If we run short, we can ask Brother Zhang for it!” With that, he glanced at Sanyan. Sanyan quickly turned his head away, acting nonchalant as if he hadn’t seen or heard anything, and said casually, “The weather is really nice today!” “Is it? It seems like there’s light snow outside.” With Xie Wendong’s support, Yu Chao wouldn’t miss such an opportunity. Seeing Sanyan’s gloomy face and his murderous gaze, he remained unfazed, chuckled twice, and added, “Even with money, it’s not certain you can get things done. The most important thing is government support. If we can get that, even for just a year, I guarantee we can turn Dongxing Group into the leading real estate company in DL.” “Government support?” Xie Wendong didn’t immediately understand what he meant. Chen Baicheng, who was beside him, noticed his confusion and quickly explained, “In DL, to boost rapid economic development, the government strongly supports some capable and promising private enterprises, turning them into symbols of the city to attract more investment.” Xie Wendong gave a light “oh” to show he understood. Chen Baicheng added, “Tax exemptions are one of the ways the government provides support.” Xie Wendong scratched his head and laughed, “In City H, we’ve already done that.”

Yu Chao shook his head and said, “Although City H is the provincial capital, it still lags behind DL in terms of economy. Just like the Wen Dong Gang, if Dongxing Group wants to develop, it must step out of our familiar small circle.” Xie Wendong nodded, let out a sigh, and asked, “Then tell me, how can we get government support here?” Yu Chao remained silent for a long time before slowly saying, “That’s probably not easy. After all, we’re not local companies!” Xie Wendong laughed heartily, stood up, and walked around the office before saying, “Throw in some ‘golden bricks’ to pave the way.” Yu Chao also stood up and said, “That might not be appropriate. The officials in DL are different from those in City H.” Xie Wendong sneered and said, “What’s the difference? Everyone has preferences. As long as we know what they like, we can cater to it. Those with stubborn tempers can be drunk at the dinner table, and those with tough bones can be softened with money.”

“Got it!” Sanyan chuckled and said, “Brother Dong is bringing his tactics from home to DL again.” Xie Wendong narrowed his eyes and said, “Whatever the tactic, as long as it works, we’ll use it to the fullest!” Sanyan sighed deeply and said, “This tactic really makes us invincible.” Chen Baicheng’s eyes lit up, and he seized the opportunity to say, “Brother Dong, I’m quite familiar with some of the city’s leaders. Let me give it a try.” Xie Wendong gave him a smiling look before turning to Sanyan. After pondering for a moment, Sanyan said, “Given the development of the gang in DL, Old Chen has indeed built relationships with some people in the city. It’s fine to let him give it a try—at least we won’t suffer any losses.” Xie Wendong calculated the time in his mind. He couldn’t stay in DL for too long and said, “I can only give you three days. No matter what method you use, I want results within three days.” Chen Baicheng became serious and nodded, “Understood!”

In terms of ability alone, Chen Baicheng was indeed a rare talent, and in many aspects, Sanyan might not even be able to match what he could achieve. Of course, this was also the main reason why Xie Wendong hadn’t touched him yet. After leaving Yu Chao’s place and taking care of Jin Rong, he had an important task to carry out. Since he was in DL, there was no reason not to visit the two Gao sisters. But Sanyan’s words immediately dragged his mood to rock bottom: “It’s vacation time for students now. Brother Dong, you haven’t forgotten, have you?!”

Xie Wendong slapped his forehead and said, “Right, New Year’s Day has passed—Xiao Yu and Xiao Mei should have gone home by now.” Sanyan smiled and said, “Brother Dong, you’re tired too. I’ll find a place for you to rest.” Xie Wendong waved his hand and said, “No need. I want to take a walk.” He took a deep breath and exhaled, saying, “The air in DL is really good.” Sanyan replied, “The air is truly good only in places far from the city—so fresh that one doesn’t want to leave.” The two walked side by side along the road, with the car following slowly behind them.

“Actually, it’s been a long time since we’ve had a chance to talk like this in peace,” Xie Wendong said, pulling up his collar. The wind in DL was cold enough to penetrate the bones, and he was still a bit unaccustomed to it.

“Yes!” Sanyan put his hands in his pockets and sighed, “It has indeed been a long time. Time flies—before we know it, another year has passed.” Xie Wendong said, “A lot has changed in a year—the gang has grown stronger, and we have more brothers now…” Sanyan continued, “Most importantly, Brother Dong has taken control of the Hongmen. Once the north and south are united, the power of the Hongmen will be terrifying, spreading across the world. By then, Brother Dong will truly become the underground emperor of China.” Xie Wendong shook his head and said, “That belongs to others. I only cherish the territory I’ve built on my own.”

Sanyan was stunned. After a long while, he burst into laughter and said, “It seems Brother Dong hasn’t changed at all.” “Oh? Why do you say that?” Xie Wendong asked with a smile. Sanyan replied, “Brother Dong has always valued the process over the outcome.” Xie Wendong said, “Of course I value the outcome too. Everyone has vanity, and I’m no exception. I also hope to build a territory that no one can surpass, but I won’t force it.” Sanyan perked up, looked into the distance, and sighed, “I really hope to see that day soon!”

Xie Wendong suddenly changed the subject and asked, “What do you think of Chen Baicheng?” Sanyan was taken aback, not sure what Xie Wendong meant by asking that. After thinking for a while, he replied, “He’s very capable and works hard.” Xie Wendong nodded and said, “He’s useful, but not trustworthy.” “Hm?” Sanyan frowned slightly and asked, “Why do you say that, Brother Dong?” Xie Wendong smiled faintly and said, “He’s very scheming.” After waiting a while with no further explanation from Xie Wendong, Sanyan wondered, “Is that all?”

“That’s all there is to it!” Xie Wendong said with a smile. Sanyan chuckled and shook his head, “Brother Dong is too suspicious, isn’t he?!” Xie Wendong replied with a grin, “My instincts have never failed me.” Sanyan surrendered, raising his hands and nodding repeatedly, stopping any further argument with Xie Wendong. He heard Xie Wendong’s words but didn’t take them to heart. When it came to using people, he believed in trusting them fully—if he trusted Chen Baicheng, he wouldn’t doubt him anymore. This was Sanyan’s strength, showing his exceptional leadership qualities, unlike Xie Wendong, who gave off a subtle and enigmatic impression. Yet this was also his weakness, making him easy to manipulate.

Xie Wendong knew Sanyan too well. Just by looking at him, he knew Sanyan wouldn’t listen, so he secretly shook his head—clearly, Sanyan wouldn’t learn his lesson without some hardship. He chuckled and said, “I’m tired. Let’s get in the car. We have an important matter to handle.” “What matter?” Sanyan asked. “Filling our stomachs!” Xie Wendong said seriously, patting his belly. Sanyan suddenly understood and laughed, “That’s indeed the most important thing in the world!” He waved, and a sedan immediately approached and stopped beside them. The door was opened, and Sanyan said, “Brother Dong, let’s have a great meal.” “What?” “Abalones, shark fins!” Sanyan was usually very frugal. As the person in charge of the Wen Dong Group’s finances, he dared not spend recklessly, having to avoid suspicion in certain areas. But with Xie Wendong around, he became much more generous. Sanyan wasn’t good at managing money, but his strengths were what others lacked. Moreover, it wasn’t easy to find someone Xie Wendong could trust.

Sanyan really didn’t hold back during this meal. A five-star hotel, top-quality wine, and all kinds of delicacies—there was everything. Of course, he was also a true friend; he wouldn’t enjoy the delicious food alone. In no time, Li Shuang, Gao Qiang, and others arrived as well. He had already made up his mind to make Brother Dong spend money. Holding a red lobster over a foot long, he praised, “DL Linhai—but truly good seafood isn’t cheap. Do you know why?” Li Shuang wiped the grease from his mouth and asked, “Why?”

Sanyan said, “DL is famous for its high-quality seafood. A lot of it is sent to Zhongnanhai for the central leaders to enjoy. That’s why the price of DL’s seafood remains high. Maybe those leaders are eating the same things we’re eating right now! Haha!” His words made everyone laugh. He looked around and said with longing, “Although it’s the same food, and although this place is luxurious enough, eating the same thing in Zhongnanhai would be an experience beyond imagination.” Xie Wendong put down his chopsticks and smiled calmly, saying, “It may seem far away, but if we really want it, maybe one day it will happen.”

Li Shuang shook his head repeatedly and said, “Brother Dong, don’t joke. What kind of place is Zhongnanhai? With our status, not to mention eating there, even just getting close to it is almost impossible.” Xie Wendong shook his head lightly and said calmly, “There’s nothing in this world that’s impossible or unattainable. As long as you want it, you can have anything in this world, as long as you pay the right price.” Sanyan, Gao Qiang, Jiang Sen, and the others gasped and thought deeply about his words. Although Xie Wendong was joking, there was some truth to it. Only Li Shuang blinked incomprehensibly and asked seriously, “If I want to be an emperor, what price do I have to pay?” Sanyan rolled his eyes and glared at him angrily, saying, “The price is that if one day you could turn into a pig!”

Xie Wendong hadn’t realized how expensive things were at DL before, but after this meal, he understood a little better. What seemed like an ordinary meal cost over 4,000 yuan, and that was after a 20% discount at the end of the year. After swiping their cards, the group came out of the hotel full. Xie Wendong looked back at the restaurant entrance thoughtfully. Seeing this, Sanyan thought he was upset, grabbed his arm, and said casually, “Brother Dong, don’t be so stingy. It’s only 4,000 yuan. Even if we’re not rich, it’s not much money!” Seeing that Sanyan had misunderstood him, Xie Wendong smiled and said, “Money isn’t the issue. I’m wondering how much profit the hotel made from this meal.”

Chen Baicheng added, “About half! The more luxurious the hotel, the higher the profit.” “Half!” Xie Wendong nodded and sighed, “That’s really exorbitant!”