Xie Sui enthusiastically saw off Gang Leader Luo, nearly scaring the man to death. He was completely convinced by this "old six."
Young Master Huo did not leave but stayed to celebrate with everyone, even giving a gift of ten thousand yuan, a token gesture.
Everyone became cautious. Young Master Huo was amiable, yet no one dared to underestimate him, such is the awe inspired by status.
Xie Sui returned with a smile, expressing his gratitude, "I didn't expect Young Master Huo to come personally. It truly illuminates my humble abode. Bring wine! I shall drink with Young Master Huo until we are both thoroughly intoxicated."
Young Master Huo said, "If I hadn't come, news of the inadequate security at Yu Long Bay and the harassment of residents would likely be gracing the front pages tomorrow, wouldn't it?"
Xie Sui chuckled, "That would be too much. Such a minor matter hardly warrants newspaper coverage. However, our residents buy property here for security and peace of mind. It's no wonder the Huo family's business is so extensive if Young Master Huo genuinely cares for the residents. I'll toast you first, Young Master Huo. Bottoms up!"
Young Master Huo's eyes flickered. What kind of person was this General Manager Xie? He had come personally because Xie Sui had caused trouble twice before. When Tang Ling had previously suppressed property prices, he knew it was Xie Sui's idea. Today, calling the property management and threatening to go to the papers if they didn't handle the situation was also a tactic not many could devise. The Huo family didn't pay much attention to Xie Sui's net worth, but seeing him in person truly piqued Young Master Huo's interest.
He didn't realize that interactions between people often begin with curiosity, much like a woman's curiosity towards a man, which can slowly draw her in. Young Master Huo had lived abroad, a true elite second-generation heir with an outstanding family background and considerable personal merit. Being groomed by the elder as the successor among the Huo family's many children, Young Master Huo possessed his own capabilities. His full name was Huo Yansong, a refined name for a person who was somewhat detached. Such individuals found it difficult to make friends; they were conceited and self-absorbed, and there was almost no one of their generation he truly appreciated.
Xie Sui aimed to befriend someone he couldn't win over, discussing everything from Wall Street, the global landscape, stock market fluctuations, to future developments, switching seamlessly between English and Chinese. For an entire evening, Huo Yansong was left in a state of thoughtful surprise. Not only him, but everyone else listened intently, and it eventually turned into Xie Sui's lecture. He felt a bit embarrassed.
"Brother Xie, are you suggesting Hong Kong's future lies in the mainland?" They assumed Xie Sui was merely speaking well of the mainland. Xie Sui sipped his tea, "This is Hong Kong's golden era, but economic development is cyclical. There are highs and lows. This stock market crash is a turning point. Not just Hong Kong's future, but the world's future lies in the mainland. Our motherland will rise like a phoenix, and its development speed will astound everyone. Those who seize this opportunity will stand at the forefront of the era and become the first to get rich. Those who maintain an arrogant attitude will ultimately be eliminated. Su Dan Novel Network. Within ten years, the global landscape will change. Young people, seize this opportunity. Future entrepreneurs, business tycoons, have your names etched onto the rich list, starting now."
Huo Yansong smiled, "General Manager Xie, I feel like you're trying to con us into investing in the mainland."
Xie Sui replied, "Of course. I have my own agenda. Cooperation is always mutually beneficial. If I had no self-interest, you wouldn't believe me, would you?"
That was true. No one would get up early without a profit. Xie Sui wasn't a Bodhisattva seeking to save all sentient beings.
The meal lasted until late into the night. Xie Sui's throat was parched, and he was so exhausted he fell asleep as soon as he hit the pillow.
The next day, a photograph appeared on the front page of various newspapers. It was a group photo of everyone at Xie Sui's home. No one knew how the paparazzi obtained it. Huo Yansong was given a special close-up, shaking hands with Xie Sui, looking like old friends. Subsequent reports were varied. Some speculated that the Huo family was considering a collaboration with Xie Sui, while others claimed Xie Sui's influence was so great that even the Huo family sought to curry favor. Overall, the reports benefited Xie Sui more than they harmed him.
Secretary Jin came to his home to see him. The housekeeper had already cleaned the place and prepared breakfast. This was a part-time cleaner arranged by the property management, free of charge. It was also a gesture of goodwill from Young Master Huo, knowing he was alone and needed someone to look after him.
While Xie Sui ate, Secretary Jin reported on company matters. Qiu Caipeng was doing a commendable job. She had visited all the acquired factories and was investigating their current conditions before discussing production and future development. The Human Resources Director, Chen Fangyong, had also completed staffing, with everyone currently on probation. The company had a fresh new atmosphere.
"General Manager Xie, your 'fake accident' with Young Master Huo was quite effective. Our company's visibility has increased significantly..."
"Stop, what 'fake accident'? Why would I fake an accident with him?" Xie Sui was puzzled. He had thought of it, but hadn't had the nerve to do it. It was a long game for a big catch, and Huo Yansong was a big catch. How could it end with just one 'fake accident'?
Secretary Jin showed him the newspaper. "Didn't you authorize this? How did the photo leak?"
Xie Sui fell silent. The angle suggested it was a candid shot. His gaze fell on the curtains, then he stood by the window. The curtain opposite moved slightly. Xie Sui understood. Someone was monitoring him? He dared to challenge the Green Gang, so who had the audacity to surveil him?
"Where's Ah Hua? He's not going to show up right on time for work again, is he?"
Secretary Jin replied, "He's in the car. Isn't General Manager Xie going to the company?"
"No rush. Call him and find out who lives in the opposite unit. What's the situation?" Secretary Jin glanced and understood. "Perhaps it's paparazzi. These paparazzi are everywhere. But for them to go to such lengths to track you, General Manager Xie, is it a good or bad thing?"
If you have value, paparazzi will follow you. If you're insignificant, are the paparazzi that idle?
"Good or bad, it needs to be resolved. I'll call Young Master Huo to explain."
Huo Yansong was also looking at the newspaper. Xie Sui spoke with an apologetic tone, "I just saw it. It really wasn't a fake accident, you must believe me."
Huo Yansong replied, "I believe you, because the benefit to you is too small. You don't need to boost your reputation now; your name is already well-known. Someone is trying to sow discord between us. It's rather low-class."
"Young Master Huo is insightful. If I were to stage a fake accident, I wouldn't do it at my own home. Young Master Huo, I think you should strictly vet the residents of Yu Long Bay. Not just anyone should be allowed to live there, wouldn't that lower the standard?"
Huo Yansong was also contemplating this. Xie Sui then brought up how, in later generations, residential complexes meticulously protected their residents' privacy. They might live opposite each other for years without meeting, a concept highly favored by the wealthy. Huo Yansong was greatly inspired. This would give the Yu Long Bay development more appeal, make it sell better, and even allow for a price increase.
They chatted for over an hour. Ah Hua had already returned. The matter had been investigated, and they were awaiting instructions.