《The Hidden Dragon In-Law》


 Chapter 1 – Suffering from humiliation

    The luxurious Xiao Family villa was ablaze with lights.


    Tonight, the Xiao Family was celebrating Old Madame Xiao''s seventieth birthday banquet.


    Grandsons, granddaughters, and sons-in-law presented extravagant gifts one after another.


    "Grandma, I heard you love tea. This hundred-year-old Pu''er tea brick is worth half a million, a birthday gift for you."


    "Grandma, I know you''re a Buddhist. This jade Buddha carved from Hetian jade is worth seven hundred thousand¡­"


    Old Madame Xiao looked at the array of gifts and laughed heartily, her family basking in joy and harmony.


    At that moment, Old Madame Xiao''s eldest grandson-in-law, James Ye, suddenly spoke up: "Grandma, could I borrow a million? Auntie Li from the orphanage has uremia and needs money for treatment¡­"


    The entire Xiao Family was shocked.


    Everyone looked at James Ye with disbelief.


    This live-in son-in-law, how dare he? Not only did he not prepare any gift for the Old Madame''s birthday, but he also had the audacity to ask her for a million?


    Three years ago, the then-living Old Master Xiao found James Ye from who knows where and insisted on marrying his granddaughter Mary Xiao to him, despite James being penniless, practically a beggar.


    After their marriage, the Old Master passed away, and since then, the Xiao Family had been scheming to drive James away.


    But James remained indifferent, unaffected by the insults, and thus continued to live as a live-in son-in-law in the Xiao Family.


    Asking for money today was a last resort.


    Auntie Li from the orphanage, who had taken him in and saved his life, had uremia. Dialysis and a kidney transplant would cost at least a million, and he had no choice but to ask Old Madame Xiao.


    He thought, today being the Old Madame''s birthday, she might be in good spirits and willing to help out of kindness.


    Unexpectedly, Old Madame Xiao''s laughter turned to a scowl in a second.


    She slammed her teacup to the ground and bellowed, "You scoundrel, are you here to celebrate or to borrow money?"


    James Ye''s wife, Mary Xiao, quickly stepped forward to explain to the Old Madame, "Grandma, James doesn''t know any better, please don''t take offense."


    As she spoke, she tried to pull James aside.


    At this moment, Mary''s female cousin, Barbara Xiao, sneered, "Sister, look at the trash you married! Daniel hasn''t even married me yet, but he already gifted Grandma a Hetian jade Buddha. Your husband, on the other hand, didn''t bring any gift and has the nerve to ask Grandma for money!"


    "That''s right, Brother Ye, we''re both sons-in-law of the Xiao Family, but as the eldest grandson-in-law, you''re really a failure!"


    The speaker was Barbara''s fianc¨¦, local tycoon Daniel Wang.


    Although Daniel was about to marry Barbara, in his eyes, Barbara''s beauty was far inferior to James Ye''s wife, Mary Xiao.


    Mary Xiao was a renowned goddess in Jinling, and seeing the goddess marry such a loser, Daniel Wang felt quite annoyed.


    "This trash should just get out of our Xiao Family!" Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Exactly! He''s disgraced our Xiao Family!"


    "I think he''s not really here to borrow money, but to deliberately ruin Grandma''s birthday mood!"


    James Ye clenched his fists as the entire Xiao Family targeted and insulted him.


    If it weren''t for the need to raise money for his lifesaver, he would have left this place of strife long ago.


    But remembering his father''s teachings to repay even the smallest kindness, he suppressed the humiliation in his heart and said to Old Madame Xiao, "Grandma, saving one life is more meritorious than building a seven-story pagoda, please show mercy¡­"


    Someone snorted coldly and cursed, "Ye, stop trying to sweet-talk Grandma. If you want to save someone, find your own way. Why should Grandma pay for your good deeds? What do you think you are?"


    The speaker was Barbara''s brother, Robert Xiao.


    The siblings had always been envious of Mary Xiao, who excelled in every aspect, so they relished any opportunity to mock James Ye.


    Mary Xiao, looking somewhat embarrassed, said, "Grandma, James lost his father at eight and was raised by Auntie Li from the orphanage. His desire to repay her kindness comes from a grateful heart, please help him¡­"


    Old Madame Xiao''s face darkened as she said, "Help him? Fine, if you divorce him and marry Young Master Zhang, I''ll give him a million right away!"


    Young Master Zhang mentioned by the Old Madame was Matthew Zhang, who had been pursuing Mary Xiao. The Zhang Family was a prominent family in Jinling, far more powerful than the Xiao Family, and the Old Madame had always wanted to curry favor with them.


    Just then, the butler hurried in, announcing loudly, "Young Master Zhang has sent a birthday gift! A Buddha pendant carved from old pit jade, worth three million yuan!"


    Old Madame Xiao was overjoyed and blurted out, "Bring it here, let me see!"


    The butler immediately presented a jade-green Buddha pendant, eliciting gasps of admiration from everyone present.


    The pendant was verdant and translucent, without a single impurity, clearly of the highest quality.


    Daniel Wang, who had gifted the Hetian jade Buddha, felt his face flush upon seeing this jade pendant, not expecting Matthew Zhang, who had no ties to the Xiao Family, to be so generous.


    Old Madame Xiao, delighted, played with the jade pendant and exclaimed, "Ah, Young Master Zhang is so thoughtful! If he could be my grandson-in-law, I''d wake up laughing from my dreams!"


    After saying this, she looked up at Mary Xiao, "What do you think? Will you consider my offer?"


    Mary Xiao shook her head, "Grandma, I won''t divorce James."


    Old Madame Xiao''s expression turned stormy as she cursed, "Ungrateful! You''d rather die clinging to this good-for-nothing! Get this trash out of here! He''s not welcome at my birthday banquet!"


    James Ye was utterly disappointed with the Xiao Family and had no face to stay any longer. He said to Mary Xiao, "Mary, I''m going to see Auntie Li at the hospital."


    Mary Xiao quickly replied, "Then I''ll come with you."


    Old Madame Xiao then scolded, "If you leave too, then I no longer have you as my granddaughter! Take your parents and leave with this good-for-nothing!"


    Mary Xiao was stunned, not expecting the Old Madame to be so harsh.


    James Ye hurriedly said, "Stay here, don''t worry about me."


    Without waiting for Mary Xiao to react, he turned and walked out.


    Robert Xiao laughed mockingly from behind, "Oh, my dear brother-in-law, leaving on an empty stomach, aren''t you going to beg on the streets? Wouldn''t that disgrace our Xiao Family even more? Here''s a coin, go buy a steamed bun!"


    As he spoke, Robert Xiao tossed a coin at James Ye''s feet.


    This novel is available on "pawread dot com".


    The Xiao Family erupted into laughter.


    James Ye clenched his teeth and left the Xiao Family without looking back.


    ***


    Arriving at the hospital, James Ye immediately went to the payment counter, hoping to negotiate a delay in the medical fees.


    However, when he asked the nurse, he was suddenly informed that Auntie Li had been sent overnight to the best hospital in Yanjing for treatment.


    James Ye was shocked and asked urgently, "How much will it cost? I''ll find a way!"


    The nurse replied, "A total of three million is needed. One million has been paid, and two million is still outstanding. It must be paid within a week."


    "Who paid the one million?"


    The nurse shook her head, "I don''t know."


    James Ye was puzzled and was about to clarify the matter when he turned around to see a man in his fifties, wearing a black suit and with slightly graying hair, standing behind him.


    Their eyes met, and the man bowed to him, saying, "Young master, you''ve suffered over the years!"


    James Ye frowned, his demeanor changing as he asked coldly, "Are you Anthony Tang?"


    The man replied with excitement, "Young master, you remember me!"


    James Ye''s expression turned stern as he murmured, "Of course I remember! I remember every one of you! It was you who forced my parents to flee Yanjing with me, leading to their accidental deaths and leaving me an orphan. What do you want with me now?"


    Anthony Tang spoke with evident pain, "Young master, when your father died, the Old Master was also deeply grieved. He''s been looking for you all these years. Now that we''ve found you, please come back with me to see him."


    James Ye replied coldly, "Leave, I will never see him in this lifetime."


    Anthony Tang asked, "Young master, do you still blame the Old Master?"


    "Of course." James Ye spoke each word firmly, "I will never forgive him in this life!"


    Anthony Tang sighed deeply, "Before I came, the Old Master said you might not forgive him."


    "Then he''s self-aware!"


    Anthony Tang continued, "The Old Master knows you''ve suffered these years and asked me to give you some compensation. If you don''t want to return, he''ll buy the largest enterprise in Jinling for you and also give you this card, the PIN is your birthday."


    As he spoke, Anthony Tang handed over a top-tier black gold card from Citibank.


    "Young master, there are only five such cards in the country."


    James Ye shook his head, "Take it back, I don''t want it."


    Anthony Tang insisted, "Young master, your lifesaver still needs two million for medical fees. Without it, her life may be in danger¡­"


    James Ye''s brow furrowed, "Are you deliberately scheming against me?"


    Anthony Tang hurriedly said, "I wouldn''t dare! Take this card, it''s enough to cover the money."


    James Ye asked, "How much is on this card?"


    "The Old Master said it''s a little pocket money for you, not much,"


    Proofreader & Editor: Peter Pan

 Chapter 2 – I have one billion in cash

    Ten billion?!


    James Ye was left dumbfounded upon hearing the figure.


    He knew his grandfather''s family was wealthy, but as a child, he had no concept of money, only aware that the Ye Family was among the top echelons in Yanjing and the entire country.


    However, he had no idea just how much money they actually had.


    But now, he had a rough idea.


    Ten billion was merely pocket change; the entire Ye Family''s assets must be over a trillion!


    Truth be told, he was tempted at that moment.


    Yet, thinking of his parents'' deaths and his grandfather''s inescapable responsibility, he found it hard to forgive.


    Seeing his dilemma, Anthony Tang hurriedly said, "Young Master, you are a Ye, and this money is rightfully yours. Strictly speaking, it belonged to your father.


    The Old Master said that if you''re willing to return, you''ll inherit the family''s trillion-dollar fortune. If you choose not to, consider this money as living expenses.


    Oh, and by the way, Dihao Group, the largest enterprise in Jinling with a market value of a hundred billion yuan, was fully acquired by the Ye Family yesterday. All shares are now in your name, and you can take over at Dihao Group tomorrow!"


    James Ye found it hard to believe.


    Was the Ye Family investing too much just for him?


    A black card with ten billion and the Dihao Group worth a hundred billion!


    Jinling might be full of hidden dragons and crouching tigers, but the true deity there was Dihao Group. All families bowed before it¡ª


    Even the Xiao Family and Wang Family that humiliated him today, as well as the Zhang Family pursuing Mary Xiao, were mere minions before Dihao Group!


    And now, it was his?


    At that moment, Anthony handed him a business card, saying, "Young Master, you might need some time to think things over. I won''t disturb you further. Here''s my number; call me anytime you need."


    With that, Anthony Tang turned and left.


    After he departed, James Ye stood there, stunned.


    He wasn''t sure if he should accept the Ye Family''s compensation.


    But after some thought, considering the hardships he''d endured over the past decade and the humiliations he faced as a son-in-law in the Xiao Family, wasn''t this compensation from the Ye Family? Why shouldn''t he accept it?


    Moreover, Auntie Li''s medical bills urgently needed two million.


    With that in mind, he gritted his teeth and immediately turned back to the payment counter: "Hello, I''d like to pay the two million."


    Swipe the card, enter the pin, transaction successful.


    Two million smoothly transferred into the hospital''s account.


    James Ye felt as if he was in a fog.


    Had he just become a billionaire overnight?


    ***


    He returned home in a daze.


    The house was in an uproar.


    Mary Xiao and her parents didn''t live in the Xiao Family villa but in a very ordinary apartment building.


    Ever since Mary married him and Old Master Xiao passed away, they had been driven out.


    His mother-in-law was furiously scolding at home: "James Ye, that good-for-nothing! He made our family lose face today! If you don''t divorce him, your grandmother might kick you out of Xiao Group!"


    Mary replied, "If I''m kicked out, I''ll just find another job."


    "You..." Her mother-in-law, frustrated, said, "What''s so good about that loser? Why can''t you divorce him and marry Matthew Zhang? If you married Matthew, our whole family could hold our heads high!"


    Her father-in-law added, "Exactly! Marrying Matthew would make us treasures in front of your grandmother; she''d be eager to bootlick you every day."


    Mary said, "Enough, I won''t divorce James."


    "You child!"


    As they continued to persuade her, James pushed the door open and entered.


    Seeing him, his in-laws wore displeased expressions.


    His mother-in-law snorted coldly, "A good-for-nothing, and you still have the face to come back!"


    James sighed inwardly; his mother-in-law had always looked down on him. But what would her reaction be if she knew he was now the boss of Dihao Group with ten billion in cash?


    However, James wasn''t ready to reveal his identity just yet.


    Having been away from the Ye Family for years, who knew what the situation was now? What if revealing himself put him at risk from someone within the Ye Family?


    Better to keep a low profile for now.


    This novel is available on ".


    So he hung his head and apologized, "Mom, I''m sorry for the trouble today."


    His mother-in-law scolded, "Trouble? You''re threatening the lives of our whole family! Can''t you have some self-awareness and get out of our house?"


    Mary quickly said, "Mom, how can you speak like that? James is your son-in-law!"


    "Bullshit!" Her mother-in-law spat out hatefully, "I don''t have such a worthless son-in-law! The further away he rolls, the better!"


    Mary pushed James, "Hurry back to your room."


    Grateful, James nodded and escaped to his room.


    He had been married to Mary for three years, but they had never consummated the marriage; Mary slept on the bed while he slept on the floor beside it.


    ***


    That night, James couldn''t sleep for a long time.


    The day''s events were too shocking, and he couldn''t digest them all at once.


    Before sleeping, Mary said to him, "How''s Auntie Li? I have some savings, about a hundred thousand. Take it to her tomorrow."


    James replied, "No need, someone has already paid for Auntie Li and sent her to Yanjing for treatment."


    "Really?" Mary exclaimed with joy, "Auntie Li is saved?"


    "Yes," James said, "Auntie Li has spent her life doing good deeds and helping so many people. Now someone has finally repaid her kindness."


    "That''s good," Mary nodded, then said to James, "You can breathe a sigh of relief now."


    "Yes."


    Mary said, "I need to sleep. There''s so much going on at the company, I''m exhausted."


    James asked, "Is there a problem at the company?"


    Mary replied, "Business isn''t great. Grandma has always wanted to cooperate with a big company like Dihao Group, but the Xiao Family''s strength is still lacking, and they don''t take us seriously."


    James suddenly thought of Dihao Group and asked, "The Xiao Family hasn''t cooperated with Dihao Group?"


    Mary laughed at herself, "How could Dihao Group take notice of the Xiao Family? Even Barbara''s fianc¨¦, Daniel Wang''s family, can barely connect with Dihao Group. Grandma is hoping that after their marriage, the Wang Family can help the Xiao Family establish a connection with Dihao Group."


    James nodded. S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    So, the Xiao Family was desperate to collaborate with Dihao Group.


    But Old Madame Xiao couldn''t have dreamed that Dihao Group was now his...


    Thinking this, James decided to first take over Dihao Group, then use it to give Mary a helping hand. She had suffered enough bullying in the Xiao Family, and as her husband, it was his responsibility to improve her status within the family.


    Mary, your husband is going to be different from today on!


    I won''t let anyone look down on you again!


    I will make the entire Xiao Family bow before you!


    Proofreader & Editor: Peter Pan

 Chapter 3 – Take over Dihao Group

    Early the next morning.


    After cooking breakfast, James Ye hopped on his electromobile and headed to the Dihao Group headquarters.


    He parked his electromobile at the edge of Dihao Group''s parking lot and had just locked it up when a black Bentley sedan slowly pulled into a spot across from him.


    James glanced up unintentionally and saw a young man and woman stepping out of the car.


    The man was dressed in a high-end suit, exuding an air of sophistication, while the woman, though garishly dressed, was a rare beauty.


    It was Mary Xiao''s cousin, Barbara Xiao, and her fianc¨¦-to-be, Young Master Wang of the Wang Family, Daniel Wang.


    James didn''t know what Barbara and Daniel were doing at Dihao Group, but to avoid trouble, he decided to keep his distance.


    However, the more he tried to avoid them, the more inevitable the encounter seemed.


    Sharp-eyed Barbara immediately spotted him and called out loudly, "Hey, brother-in-law!"


    Barbara''s call of ''brother-in-law'' was extremely affectionate, but it gave James a headache.


    Out of courtesy, he stopped and waited for them to approach before smiling and asking, "Barbara, what brings you here?"


    Barbara giggled, "I''m here with Daniel to meet with the Vice Chairman of Dihao Group, Margaret Wang!"


    She then looked at Daniel adoringly and said, "Daniel''s family has a lot of collaborations with Dihao Group. In the future, it will not only benefit the Wang Family but also help our Xiao Family."


    James was unaware of any cooperation between the Wang Family and Dihao Group, as he had only recently acquired the company and hadn''t had the chance to learn about it.


    But he didn''t show it and simply smiled, "Young Master Wang has an extraordinary presence and remarkable abilities. You two really are a match made in heaven!"


    Daniel looked at James with contempt, feeling a sense of injustice.


    This loser was scolded like a dog by Old Madame Xiao yesterday, and yet today he''s grinning like nothing happened.


    Why would a stunning beauty like Mary marry such a spineless wimp?


    If it weren''t for this loser, he would have pursued Mary with all his might, instead of getting engaged to Barbara, who was inferior in every aspect.


    Thinking this, Daniel felt annoyed and deliberately asked, "Brother-in-law, what are you doing at Dihao Group?"


    James casually replied, "I''m here looking for a job."


    "Looking for a job?" Daniel sneered, "What kind of job could a good-for-nothing like you possibly do at Dihao Group?"


    James frowned, "What does my job search have to do with you?"


    Barbara stopped James, intending to mock him thoroughly. Seeing that Daniel had already started, she joined in with sarcasm, "What, did Daniel say something wrong?"


    Do you have the qualifications, you good-for-nothing? Do you have any achievements, you good-for-nothing?


    A loser like you wouldn''t even get hired as a security guard at Dihao Group. If you had any self-awareness, you''d be better off picking up trash on the streets ¨C at least you could earn a couple thousand a month!"


    After speaking, she tossed her empty drink bottle at James''s feet and huffed, "There, I''m looking after you. Pick up that bottle and sell it for some money!"


    Daniel laughed, "Although you''re trash, since we''re relatives, I should look out for you. It just so happens I have some connections with the Vice Chairman of Dihao Group. How about I put in a good word for you and get you a job cleaning toilets?"


    James gave a cold smile and said, "I don''t need you to worry about what kind of job I find. You should worry more about yourself. Dihao Group is a major corporation; I doubt they''d want to collaborate with low-quality trash like you."


    Daniel exploded with rage, "Fuck you, who are you calling trash?"


    James replied disdainfully, "You are the trash!"


    With that, he walked away, heading into the Dihao Group building without giving Daniel another glance.


    "Fuck you, stop right there!" Daniel quickly followed, catching up with James at the elevator.


    He had intended to teach James a lesson, at the very least slap him twice to show him the consequences of offending him.


    But seeing that they were now inside the Dihao Group building, he worried that starting a fight might upset their business partners, so he reluctantly abandoned the idea of teaching James a lesson for now.


    Grinding his teeth, he spat out, "You stupid asshole, I''ll let you off this time, but you won''t be so lucky next time!"


    This novel is available on ". S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    James snorted and stepped into the elevator, saying, "Daniel Wang, do you think you''re all that? Trust me, soon you''ll learn the price of arrogance."


    "Fuck you..." Daniel stepped forward, intending to rush into the elevator.


    Barbara pulled him back, speaking with disdain, "Daniel, don''t share an elevator with this kind of trash. You don''t want his stench to rub off on you."


    Daniel nodded, knowing he couldn''t start a fight here, and said coldly, "I''ll let you off this time, but you''ll regret it next time!"


    ***


    James took the elevator straight to the top floor, where the Chairman''s office was located.


    At Dihao Group, Anthony Tang had already made arrangements for him, and he was to be met by a woman named Margaret Wang.


    Margaret had a big reputation in Jinling, known as one of the most formidable women in the business world. Not only was she beautiful, but she was also extremely capable. At a young age, she had already been promoted to Vice Chairman of Dihao Group, and she had played a significant role in the company''s success.


    Now that the Ye Family had acquired Dihao Group and the former Chairman had stepped down, Margaret had stayed on, ready to assist the new Chairman.


    Upon seeing James, Margaret was shocked. She hadn''t expected the Young Master of the Ye Family, as described by Anthony, to be so young and elegant!


    Without delay, she greeted him with the utmost respect, "Young master, please honor me by visiting my office."


    Proofreader & Editor: Peter Pan

 Chapter 4 – Kick them out!

    James Ye was meeting Margaret Wang for the first time.


    It had to be said, Margaret was stunningly beautiful!


    At the age of twenty-seven or twenty-eight, she possessed a slender yet voluptuous figure, breathtaking beauty, and an air of noble efficiency.


    Seated at Margaret''s desk, James began, "I won''t be coming to Dihao Group often in the future, so I''ll need you to take charge here. Also, keep my identity a secret."


    Margaret knew that James came from an extraordinary family background, and to his family, a corporation like Dihao Group was but a trifle. It was no surprise he didn''t want to manage it personally.


    She quickly replied, "Young master, just give me your orders for anything you need."


    At that moment, a female secretary knocked and entered, saying, "Vice Chairman Wang, a Mr. Daniel Wang and his fianc¨¦e are here to see you."


    Margaret immediately responded, "I''m with an important guest, have them wait."


    James asked her, "Do you know this Daniel Wang?"


    Margaret hurriedly explained, "Daniel''s family is one of our subcontractors. Their main business relies on us, and they''ve been wanting to pay their respects for a while now."


    James coldly ordered, "From now on, Dihao Group is to cease all business dealings with the Wang Family. Halt all ongoing and planned collaborations. If the Wang Family earns even a penny from Dihao Group, you can step down as Vice Chairman!" S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Margaret''s expression turned serious. Without asking, she knew someone from the Wang Family must have offended the young master.


    She nodded and assured, "Rest easy, young master. I''ll issue the orders to terminate all collaborations with the Wang Family immediately!"


    James grunted in approval, "Tell them Dihao Group refuses to work with low-quality trash, then have security throw them out."


    ***


    Outside, Daniel Wang and Barbara Xiao were eagerly waiting.


    The Wang Family had always wanted to become strategic partners with Dihao Group, hoping to get closer to Margaret.


    Unexpectedly, Margaret''s secretary arrived with several security guards.


    Daniel couldn''t help but ask, "Excuse me, is Vice Chairman Wang available to see us?"


    The secretary looked at him and said coldly, "I''m sorry, Vice Chairman Wang has stated that Dihao Group will not cooperate with low-quality trash like you. All collaborations with your family are hereby canceled!"


    "What did you say?!"


    Daniel was stunned, the words eerily familiar.


    That''s right! James had said the exact same thing in the parking lot!


    What did Vice Chairman Wang mean? Were they cutting off collaboration with the Wang Family?


    Daniel felt his head throbbing.


    All collaborations terminated?


    A significant portion of the Wang Family''s profits came from Dihao Group!


    If the collaboration ended, wouldn''t their family''s power be halved instantly?!


    Unable to accept this reality, he shouted, "I want to see Vice Chairman Wang! I demand an explanation in person!"


    The secretary coldly replied, "I''m sorry, Vice Chairman Wang will not meet with you, and you are no longer allowed to set foot in Dihao Group!"


    Enraged, Daniel cursed, "Fuck you, you bitch! Are you playing with me? We''ve been long-term partners with Dihao Group, you can''t just terminate that!"


    Ignoring him, the secretary instructed the security guards, "Kick them out!"


    The security chief immediately stepped forward, grabbed Daniel''s wrist, and twisted it behind his back.


    Daniel cried out in pain, and the chief barked, "Get out now! Make a scene in Dihao Group, and I''ll cripple you!"


    "You''re just a security chief, how dare you yell at me? Do you know who I am?"


    As soon as Daniel finished speaking, the chief slapped him across the face, shouting, "In front of Dihao Group, who the fuck do you think you are?"


    Daniel, his face stinging from the slap, was about to explode in anger when his phone rang.


    It was his father calling.


    Upon answering, he was met with a furious roar, "Bastard, what trouble have you caused now? Dihao Group is severing all ties with us, who did you offend?"


    Daniel protested, "Dad, I haven''t offended anyone. I was just here to see Vice Chairman Wang, but I didn''t even get to meet her..."


    His father cursed over the phone, "Dihao Group said they''re cutting ties because of your trashy behavior! Our family is suffering huge losses because of you. Get back here and explain yourself to your grandfather!"


    Daniel was chased out of Dihao Group, phone in hand, utterly bewildered.


    Suddenly thinking of James, he asked Barbara, "Could it be because of your loser brother-in-law? Does he have some connection to Dihao Group?"


    "Ah?" Barbara was startled by Daniel''s suggestion. It did seem possible that it had something to do with her good-for-nothing brother-in-law.


    But he was just a worthless asshole!


    With that thought, she shook her head firmly, "That stupid asshole couldn''t possibly have anything to do with Dihao Group. He''s not even qualified to clean their toilets!"


    "Right..." Daniel nodded, thinking of his furious father, and said dejectedly, "I need to go home..."


    The news of Dihao Group terminating all cooperation with the Wang Family spread quickly throughout Jinling.


    Although the reason was unknown, everyone was clear that the Wang Family must have offended Dihao Group.


    This spelled disaster for the Wang Family.


    Their power was greatly diminished, falling from near top-tier status to the bottom of the second-tier families.


    Old Madame Xiao, hearing the news, trembled with rage.


    She wanted to cancel Barbara and Daniel''s engagement, but considering the Wang Family''s remaining influence, the Xiao Family couldn''t afford to offend them, so she had to let it be.


    ***


    Meanwhile, back in Margaret''s office.


    James, learning about the whole incident, was very impressed with her handling of the situation.


    He said with satisfaction, "Margaret, you handled that well. Starting today, your salary is doubled."


    Margaret was both shocked and delighted, quickly standing to bow to James, "Thank you, young master!"


    A quick look at bit.ly/3iBfjkV will leave you more fulfilled.


    James nodded and added, "Also, I want you to announce two things publicly."


    "Young master, please tell me."


    "First, announce that Dihao Group has a new owner and a new chairman, but don''t reveal the chairman''s identity. Just mention the surname Ye.


    Second, announce that Dihao Group will invest two billion yuan in Jinling to build a six-star hotel and initiate a bidding process for partners. All local construction and decoration companies are welcome to bid!"


    Xiao Group''s main business was decoration, and Old Madame Xiao had always dreamed of securing a partnership with Dihao Group. Whoever could secure a deal with Dihao Group would become a star in Xiao Group.


    Now that he owned Dihao Group, James naturally wanted to provide some benefits for his wife.


    Proofreader & Editor: Peter Pan

 Chapter 5 – Ill give it a try!

    Dihao Group''s announcement of two major news items completely set Jinling ablaze.


    Hearing that Dihao Group had changed hands, the Xiao Family finally realized why the Wang Family had been ousted by Dihao Group.


    It seemed that the new owner of Dihao Group didn''t think much of families like the Wangs.


    But who exactly is Young Master Ye? This person is too incredible, right? To buy the Dihao Group, worth over a hundred billion, just like that? Even Jinling''s richest man doesn''t have such deep pockets!


    Suddenly, countless families were stirred, some longing to establish ties with this mysterious Young Master Ye, while others hoped their daughters could marry into his family.


    Furthermore, Dihao Group''s plan to invest in a two-billion-yuan hotel project also sent shockwaves through Jinling''s construction and decoration industry!


    Two billion!


    Even a small slice of that pie would be a huge windfall!


    Numerous companies were eager to get a piece of the action.


    Naturally, this included the money-hungry Old Madame Xiao!


    Old Madame Xiao was beside herself with excitement; a two-billion project was an excellent opportunity!


    If the Xiao Family could secure a contract from this, it would be like striking gold!


    Thus, she immediately ordered a family meeting to be held at home that evening to discuss how to break into Dihao Group''s new project. Attendance was mandatory for all!


    ***


    That night, at the Xiao Family villa.


    Since Old Madame Xiao had insisted everyone attend, James Ye went along as well.


    He knew the meeting was to discuss how to get a share of Dihao Group''s big project.


    So, he wanted to take this chance to give his wife, Mary Xiao, a boost in status!


    Upon arriving at the Xiao Family villa, Mary''s cousin Robert Xiao saw him and immediately sneered, "Damn, James Ye, you''ve got some nerve showing up to see Grandma!"


    Mary replied with a cold face, "Watch your mouth. Grandma demanded all Xiao Family members be present. James is my husband, so naturally, he is a member of the Xiao Family!"


    Robert laughed, "Him? A Xiao Family member? He''s nothing but a live-in son-in-law!"


    James touched his nose and said to Mary, "Let it go, wife. Don''t stoop to his level. Let''s head in before Grandma has to wait any longer."


    Mary nodded, not giving Robert the time of day, and walked in with James.


    Seeing this, Robert''s face turned cold, thinking they would get what''s coming to them soon enough.


    Once inside the meeting hall, James and Mary found a spot in the corner to sit down.


    Soon after, Old Madame Xiao strode in, and the family meeting officially began.


    Old Madame Xiao took her place at the head of the table and knocked on it, declaring spiritedly, "The Xiao Family has been waiting for an opportunity for years, an opportunity to join the ranks of Jinling''s elite! Now, that opportunity has finally arrived!"


    She continued loudly, "This twenty-billion project from Dihao Group, whoever secures a partnership contract will reap huge benefits!


    And this is the first major project since the change of hands at Dihao Group, a golden opportunity for our Xiao Family! If we can cooperate with Dihao Group and make a good impression on the new owner, the future of the Xiao Family will be limitless!"


    Despite Old Madame Xiao''s enthusiasm, the others seemed unmoved.


    In truth, the Xiao Family had long sought cooperation with Dihao Group, to no avail. Now, hoping to get a share of the new project seemed impossible.


    Seeing everyone''s silence, Old Madame Xiao angrily demanded, "What''s the matter? Have you all gone mute? Don''t you have the confidence to secure even a small piece of this twenty-billion project?"


    People exchanged glances, none daring to speak.


    Old Madame Xiao, even more furious, gritted her teeth and declared, "I''ll say this now: whoever negotiates a thirty-million contract with Dihao Group will become the general manager of our group!"


    This statement took everyone by surprise.


    Old Madame Xiao had always been autocratic, never establishing the position of general manager within the group, as it held significant power and was typically reserved for a successor.


    Now, using this position as a reward, it was clear how desperately she wanted the Dihao Group project.


    But as coveted as the general manager position was, it wasn''t easy to obtain.


    To the Xiao Family, securing a deal with Dihao Group and a thirty-million contract seemed like a joke. Even if Old Madame Xiao herself stepped in, Dihao Group''s executives wouldn''t grant her an audience, let alone discuss cooperation.


    The meeting hall fell silent. Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Old Madame Xiao, filled with rage, questioned, "As descendants of the Xiao Family, is there no one willing to share the family''s burdens?"


    Then, she turned her gaze directly to Robert, "Robert, this task is yours to undertake!"


    Robert forced a few laughs and quickly said, "Grandma, even Daniel Wang''s family has been kicked out by Dihao Group. Our strength is even less than the Wangs'', how could we possibly secure a contract with Dihao Group..."


    Old Madame Xiao immediately scolded, "Useless! You''re even more worthless than that waste James Ye if you give up without even trying!"


    In her heart, Old Madame Xiao wasn''t confident either, but she refused to remain at the helm of a second-rate family forever. She dreamed of the Xiao Family rising higher.


    This Dihao Group project was their only chance.


    So, no matter how difficult, she was unwilling to give up.


    She had expected Robert, as the eldest grandson, to accept this task eagerly, but to her dismay, he was backing out.


    Robert was also frustrated. Who would want to take on an impossible task? He feared he''d be turned away at Dihao Group''s door before he could even begin.


    Not only would he fail to accomplish the task, but he would also become a laughingstock. That''s why he was determined not to agree.


    After Old Madame Xiao berated Robert, she loudly demanded, "What about the rest of you? Are you all too scared to take on this task?"


    At this moment, James gently nudged Mary with his elbow and whispered, "Wife, take on this task."


    Mary quickly objected, "Are you crazy? Dihao Group would never cooperate with a small company like the Xiao Family!"


    A quick look at /2p9emv8w will leave you more fulfilled.


    James smiled confidently, "Don''t worry, you''ll definitely be able to secure this cooperation!"


    Mary asked in surprise, "Really?"


    James affirmed, "Of course! I think you''re more than capable! Seize this opportunity, and your status in the Xiao Family will soar!"


    For some reason, at that moment, Mary found herself inexplicably believing James''s words.


    She stood up instinctively and said to Old Madame Xiao, "Grandma, I''m willing to give it a try¡­"


    Proofreader & Editor: Peter Pan

 Chapter 6 – Make a bet

    Mary Xiao''s stance left the entire Xiao Family dumbfounded!


    Everyone thought she must have lost her mind!


    There''s a time and place to stand out, but doing so now could only lead to disaster. What else could come of it but death?


    Dihao Group is the largest company in Jinling; how could they possibly take an interest in the Xiao Family? Whoever goes to negotiate, the outcome is bound to be a failure!


    Robert Xiao couldn''t help but mockingly say, "Mary, do you really think you can secure a contract from Dihao Group?"


    Robert''s own sister and Mary''s cousin, Barbara Xiao, also sneered, "Sister Mary, know your place. What status do you have, and what status does Dihao Group have? Don''t shame our Xiao Family by rashly negotiating!"


    Someone chimed in, "Exactly, if she gets kicked out by Dihao Group, our Xiao Family will become the laughingstock of Jinling!"


    Hearing this, Mary''s cheeks flushed with anger and embarrassment.


    Ever since marrying James Ye, her status in the family had plummeted, and she was increasingly marginalized, almost to the point of being ostracized, even her parents were ridiculed because of her.


    She felt that if she could secure this project with Dihao Group, her status within the family would surely be solidified.


    Most importantly, her parents could then hold their heads high.


    But now, being ridiculed by so many, she couldn''t help but have second thoughts.


    She glared at James Ye, regretting having listened to his persuasion. If only she hadn''t taken the lead...


    Old Madame Xiao was furious upon hearing everyone''s comments.


    No one had dared to take on this task despite her asking several times, and now that Mary had stepped forward, these people were throwing cold water on it!


    Although Old Madame Xiao had never liked Mary, at this moment, she felt that at least Mary was willing to share her worries, unlike the others who only added to her troubles!


    Especially her most beloved grandson, Robert, who had truly disappointed her!


    Because of this, Old Madame Xiao''s attitude towards Mary had significantly changed.


    She immediately declared, "If no one else dares to accept, then stop talking nonsense! Let Mary handle the project cooperation with Dihao Group!"


    Mary had no choice but to stiffly respond, "Grandma, rest assured, I will give it my all."


    At that moment, Robert snorted disdainfully, "What''s the use of giving it your all? If you fail, you''ll still disgrace our family!"


    A quick look at "pawread dot com" will leave you more fulfilled.


    James Ye sneered and asked, "Robert, what''s your purpose in being so negative about Mary? Do you think the Xiao Family isn''t worthy of cooperating with Dihao Group?"


    Robert hadn''t expected James, whom he considered a good-for-nothing, to speak up at the family meeting, let alone challenge him directly.


    Seeing Old Madame Xiao''s expression turn angry, he quickly explained, "That''s not what I mean. I just think it''s impossible for Mary to secure the cooperation!"


    James Ye smiled and asked him, "What if Mary does secure the cooperation? Shall we make a bet?"


    Robert scoffed, "Sure, let''s bet. Do you think I''m afraid of you? What''s the wager?"


    James Ye proposed, "If Mary secures the contract, you kneel and kowtow three times in front of the whole family, loudly admitting your mistake. If she doesn''t, I''ll do the same. How about that?"


    Robert burst into laughter, "You''re really courting death! Fine, I''ll take that bet!"


    James Ye nodded in satisfaction, "Let the whole family witness. Whoever reneges on the bet is cursing their own parents and grandparents!"


    James Ye emphasized the words "cursing their own grandparents" to prevent Robert from backing out later, as that would mean cursing Old Madame Xiao, who would certainly not let him off the hook.


    "Alright!" Robert, unaware that James Ye was setting a trap, felt confident he couldn''t lose.


    He laughed and said, "Let the whole family witness, I look forward to you bowing to me!"


    Mary was startled and tried to signal to him, but he completely ignored her.


    Old Madame Xiao didn''t take the bet seriously; her only concern was whether they could get on Dihao Group''s partnership list. If they could, she wouldn''t mind even if Robert had to call James Ye "Dad."


    So, she announced, "That''s enough for today''s meeting. Mary, you have three days to secure the contract. Meeting adjourned!" sea??h th§× N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ***


    Back at home, her parents immediately confronted James Ye and Mary.


    Her mother, Elizabeth Ma, was frantic, blurting out, "Mary, have you lost your mind? How could you heed the words of James, that good-for-nothing, and rashly accept this task?"


    Her father, Christopher Xiao, also scolded James, "James, oh James, you good-for-nothing, you''ve really doomed my daughter!"


    Then, with anger on his face, he said, "If Mary can''t secure the cooperation with Dihao Group, she''ll certainly be ostracized by the family, and you''ll have to kowtow to Robert in front of everyone. Won''t you then completely disgrace me?"


    James Ye earnestly replied, "Dad, Mom, if Mary can secure the contract, won''t all our problems be solved?"


    "Negotiate, negotiate, negotiate! What nonsense!"


    Her father cursed, "Do you know how powerful Dihao Group is? How could they possibly be interested in the Xiao Family?"


    James Ye smiled, "Who knows? Maybe they will take an interest. I believe Mary can definitely secure the contract."


    Her mother mocked from the side, "You believe? Do you think you''re the boss of Dihao Group? A good-for-nothing with no use, and still so arrogant!"


    Proofreader & Editor: Peter Pan

 Chapter 7 – Hes my husband!

    Mary Xiao sighed as she saw her parents constantly picking on James Ye, and said, "Dad, Mom, this has nothing to do with James. I just don''t want to be looked down upon by them anymore. Haven''t we suffered enough humiliation over the years?"


    Mary''s mother blurted out, "But you still shouldn''t have taken on this task. Not to mention you, even if your grandmother went, they wouldn''t pay her any attention!"


    James Ye watched the scene before him and couldn''t help but smile bitterly to himself. His materialistic in-laws would probably never believe that he was actually the owner of the Dihao Group.


    Just then, a knock sounded at the door.


    "Someone''s here..."


    Elizabeth Ma sighed as she opened the door.


    A quick look at " will leave you more fulfilled.


    James glanced over and saw a young man standing at the doorway, dressed in an Armani suit, exuding charm and talent, with a Patek Philippe watch on his wrist that looked to be worth at least three to five million.


    Elizabeth Ma excitedly exclaimed, "Oh, it''s Matthew! What brings you here?"


    The visitor was none other than Young Master Zhang, Matthew Zhang, who had been pursuing Mary Xiao.


    Matthew Zhang smiled and said, "Auntie, I heard that Mary took on a project with the Dihao Group, so I came over to offer some advice."


    "Oh my! You really are our family''s lifesaver!" Elizabeth Ma was thrilled, looking at Matthew as if he were her own son-in-law, and hurriedly welcomed him in, asking as they walked, "Matthew, do you have a way to help Mary secure the contract with the Dihao Group?"


    Matthew Zhang nodded with a smile, ignoring James Ye as if he were an ant at the roadside, and went straight to Mary, saying softly, "Mary, you didn''t even tell me about such a big deal. But don''t worry, our company has a partnership with the Dihao Group. I''ll ask my dad to put in a word, and we''ll do our best to help you."


    In truth, Matthew Zhang''s father didn''t have that much influence; he was just posturing to impress Mary.


    Mary, aware of Matthew''s interest in her, responded coolly, "Matthew, I appreciate your kindness, but I''ll handle it myself."


    Elizabeth Ma couldn''t believe her ears and exclaimed, "Mary, have you lost your mind? Young Master Zhang is kindly offering help, how can you speak to him like that?"


    Mary didn''t reply, but James Ye, intrigued, asked Matthew, "Young Master Zhang, I''m curious about how you plan to help Mary. The Dihao Group is so big, surely it can''t be swayed by your family? Do you have a way to get them to sign with Mary?" Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Matthew Zhang scoffed disdainfully, "What do you know? Our Zhang Family has always been a close partner with the Dihao Group. Out of the 2 billion yuan project Dihao has this time, our family will get at least a third! I''ll just have my dad allocate tens of millions from that to subcontract to Mary, and that''ll help her complete the task, won''t it?"


    James Ye feigned surprise, "Wow! I had no idea the Zhang Family had such deep ties with the Dihao Group!"


    Matthew Zhang snorted, "Of course! Who in Jinling doesn''t know about the close cooperation between our Zhang Family and the Dihao Group?"


    After speaking, Matthew Zhang stared at James Ye with contempt and advised, "James Ye, I suggest you, a frog in a well, leave Mary voluntarily. A man like you can''t give her happiness; you''ll only hold her back."


    At that moment, Mary coldly interjected, "Excuse me, Young Master Zhang, I don''t need your help, and please refrain from insulting my husband!"


    Stunned, Matthew Zhang said, "Mary, I''m trying to help you, and you still side with this loser? What''s there to protect about him?"


    Mary stated firmly, "He''s not a loser; he''s my husband!"


    Fuming, Matthew Zhang retorted, "Fine! You''ll regret not accepting my help! If you can''t handle it later, don''t blame me for not giving you a chance!"


    With that, Matthew Zhang turned and stormed out, slamming the door behind him.


    Elizabeth Ma tried to follow and explain, but Matthew was already gone.


    She slapped her thigh in frustration and scolded James Ye, "You infuriate me! What good are you besides holding Mary back? Young Master Zhang was so willing to help, and you just drove him away!"


    James Ye replied calmly, "Mom, he was just talking big. He can''t even secure a partnership with the Dihao Group himself, how could he possibly help Mary?"


    "You''re talking nonsense!" Elizabeth Ma snapped back, "The Zhang Family can secure a third of the Dihao Group''s projects, what do you know!"


    James Ye chuckled inwardly, thinking, I don''t care about the Zhang Family''s capabilities; I know that my Dihao Group will never cooperate with them! Even if there were numerous past collaborations with the Zhang Family, from now on, all of them will cease!


    Unaware of James''s thoughts, Mary said to her mother, "Mom, don''t blame James. Let''s talk about it after I return from the Dihao Group."


    Elizabeth Ma sighed deeply, feeling that fate was unfair; she had married a useless man, and her daughter had married an even more useless one.


    What kind of karma was this?


    Proofreader & Editor: Peter Pan

 Chapter 8 – Sixty million shares!

    The next morning, Mary Xiao, armed with the partnership proposal she had prepared overnight, accompanied James Ye to the Dihao Group headquarters.


    Standing before the towering hundred-story skyscraper of the Dihao Group, Mary felt utterly out of her depth.


    How could such a colossal company like Dihao Group ever take notice of the Xiao Family?


    Not to mention the Xiao Family''s audacious hope of securing a thirty million share.


    It was like a beggar dreaming of asking a tycoon for thirty million in charity¡ªpure fantasy.


    But since she had promised her grandmother and publicly taken on this task, she was determined to give it her best shot...


    Seeing her anxiety, James Ye tenderly adjusted her hair and comforted her, "Don''t worry, honey. Just go and talk to them. You''ll definitely succeed."


    Mary replied helplessly, "I hope so! Wait for me here."


    With that, she took a deep breath and mustered her courage to step through the grand doors of the Dihao Group.


    James watched her enter, then took out his phone and called Margaret Wang.


    "Margaret, my wife has gone up. You know what to do next."


    Margaret Wang promptly responded, "Don''t worry, Young Master Ye. I''ll make sure the Young Lady is satisfied."


    James Ye then inquired, "By the way, I heard that Dihao Group has deep ties with the Zhang Family?"


    Margaret confirmed, "They used to have significant collaborations with Dihao, and they''re keen on a deep partnership for our new project. They''re submitting their proposal to me, but it''s ultimately up to you, Young Master Ye."


    James Ye replied coldly, "For this new project, I don''t want to see the Zhang Family involved. No further cooperation with them in the future."


    Margaret assured him, "Rest assured, I''ll handle it!"


    ***


    Meanwhile, Mary Xiao entered the Dihao Group''s office building and waited at the reception, not even sure if Vice Chairman Margaret Wang would be willing to see her.


    Soon, a graceful female assistant approached her, "Are you Ms. Mary Xiao? Vice Chairman Wang is waiting for you in her office. Please follow me."


    Mary nodded, puzzled about being summoned without even having to schedule an appointment. Could Margaret Wang have known she was coming?


    But that seemed impossible... How could someone as renowned as Margaret Wang know her?


    Despite her confusion, Mary knew this was an opportunity not to be missed and quickly followed the assistant.


    The assistant led Mary straight to Margaret Wang''s office.


    Upon seeing Mary, Margaret Wang rose from her chair and greeted her respectfully, "Hello, Ms. Xiao. I''m Margaret Wang, Vice Chairman of the Dihao Group."


    Facing the renowned businesswoman of Jinling, Mary was somewhat nervous but spoke respectfully, "Hello, Vice Chairman Wang. I''m here to discuss a potential hotel project. The Xiao Family may not be very powerful overall, but we are truly dedicated and well-regarded in the renovation business!"


    With that, she nervously handed over a document, "Vice Chairman Wang, here''s an introduction to the Xiao Group and our qualifications. Please take a look."


    Margaret Wang smiled, brows arched, and after briefly scanning the document, she said, "Ms. Xiao, I''ve looked at your materials, and I think the Xiao Family can collaborate with Dihao."


    "Really? Are you serious?" Mary could hardly believe her ears.


    How could it be this simple?


    Margaret Wang smiled, "Of course, it''s true. While the Xiao Family''s conditions don''t meet Dihao Group''s usual standards, our chairman sees potential in Ms. Xiao and is willing to work with you."


    "The chairman?" Mary exclaimed, asking, "May I know who your chairman is?"


    Margaret Wang smiled faintly, "Our chairman is Young Master Ye from the Ye Family of Yanjing."


    "Young Master Ye?"


    Mary frowned, "I don''t think I know anyone with the surname Ye, other than my husband."


    Margaret nodded slightly, as James Ye had instructed her not to reveal too much about his identity.


    Aside from James Ye, Mary truly didn''t know anyone else with the surname Ye, but it never crossed her mind that her husband, who came from an orphan background and seemed to have nothing to his name, was the very Young Master Ye mentioned.


    Margaret Wang then said, "Ms. Xiao, I see that you''ve listed a desired partnership share of thirty million in your documents?"


    Mary quickly nodded, asking with uncertainty, "Is that too much?"


    Margaret Wang chuckled, "Not at all, it''s actually too little."


    Mary was even more baffled and asked, "What do you mean?"


    Margaret Wang explained, "Our chairman instructed me to raise the partnership share to sixty million."


    As she spoke, Margaret Wang presented a contract, "Take a look, the contract is already prepared for sixty million. If you find it acceptable, we can sign it right now."


    "What? This..."


    Mary was stunned.


    She could never have imagined that the Dihao Group, which the Xiao Family had thought beyond their reach, would proactively prepare a contract for her!


    And the contract amount was doubled! Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Her grandmother''s goal was thirty million, yet the contract stated sixty million!


    Suddenly, she remembered how her husband, James Ye, had insisted she take on this task the night before with such confidence.


    Why was he so sure of himself?


    And earlier, at the entrance of the Dihao Group, she had felt so uncertain, yet he seemed utterly confident.


    Could he have known the outcome all along?


    Who exactly was he¡­


    Proofreader & Editor: Peter Pan

 Chapter 9 – Utterly disrespectful!

    In that instant, a wild thought suddenly sprang into Mary Xiao''s mind.


    Could the Young Master Ye that Margaret Wang spoke of be her own husband, James Ye?


    But then she quickly dismissed the idea as too fantastical.


    How could it be!


    James Ye was just an orphan who grew up in an orphanage!


    Yet, who else in the world would treat her so well?


    Thirty million was already a dream, but he had given her sixty million without hesitation...


    She couldn''t help but ask Margaret Wang, "Vice Chairman Wang, may I ask if your chairman''s name is James Ye?"


    Margaret''s heart skipped a beat. The young master had instructed her not to reveal his identity, only to say her surname was Ye. If the young lady guessed it, wouldn''t she be to blame?


    So she hastily replied, "Ms. Xiao, please don''t inquire further. Our chairman comes from a noble Yanjing family, and his identity is highly confidential. I''m not at liberty to disclose it."


    Mary nodded slightly. The mention of a noble Yanjing family by Margaret Wang snapped her back to reality.


    James Ye was an orphan; he couldn''t possibly be from a noble Yanjing family. It seemed she had indeed let her imagination run wild. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ***


    When Mary Xiao left Margaret Wang''s office, she was still in a daze.


    In her hand was the sixty million cooperation agreement between the Xiao Family and Dihao Group.


    It all felt like a dream.


    At the entrance of Dihao Group, Mary saw James Ye and excitedly ran up to him, saying, "James, I actually managed to seal the deal."


    James chuckled inwardly, thinking, how could you not succeed when your husband is the boss of Dihao Group?


    However, he feigned surprise and said, "You managed to close such a difficult deal, wife, you''re amazing!"


    Mary replied, "Oh, it''s not that I''m amazing. It''s practically like Dihao Group just gave it away."


    "Why?" James asked deliberately, "Why do you say that?"


    Afraid that talking about the chairman of Dihao Group might make James jealous, Mary quickly said, "Oh, it''s a long story. Let''s go to the company now and share the good news with everyone."


    James laughed heartily, "Alright! That son of a bitch Robert Xiao will have to keep his bet and kneel before me!"


    Mary nodded and said, "He''s always so arrogant and dismissive. It''s time he learned a lesson!"


    In truth, Mary had her own temper. People like Robert Xiao looked down on her and her husband, and now that she had secured the cooperation, it was indeed time for them to be more restrained.


    ***


    Ten minutes later, the couple arrived at Xiao Group.


    In the conference room, every member of the Xiao Family wore a strange expression.


    They all knew Mary had gone to Dihao Group early in the morning, but no one believed she could pull it off and were waiting to mock her.


    Unexpectedly, she returned so quickly.


    When Mary and James entered the conference room, everyone looked at them with mockery.


    Robert Xiao said unkindly, "Oh Mary, back in just half an hour? Don''t tell me you couldn''t even get through the doors of Dihao Group! Hahaha!"


    His sister, Barbara Xiao, also sneered, "Oh dear Mary, declaring failure in less than an hour? That''s got to be a record, right?"


    Old Madame Xiao''s face darkened as well. The Dihao Group project was indeed very challenging, and even if Mary couldn''t close the deal, she should at least have been more serious about it. Giving up so quickly infuriated her.


    So, Old Madame Xiao stared at her and said coldly, "Mary Xiao, you''ve disappointed me greatly."


    James frowned upon hearing this.


    How disgusting could these people be? They mocked without even asking about the outcome.


    Especially that son of a bitch Robert Xiao, fuck you, you''re going to kneel before me soon!


    Mary had come with excitement, but the cold remarks from everyone were like a bucket of cold water, filling her with anger. She said, "I''m sorry to disappoint everyone, but Margaret Wang from Dihao Group has already agreed to the project cooperation with me!"


    "What? You closed the deal?"


    "Impossible! How could you? You couldn''t have even met with Margaret Wang!"


    Everyone was stunned.


    "Mary Xiao, do you think we''d believe that?"


    Robert Xiao snapped back to reality and slammed the table, shouting, "Dihao Group''s Vice Chairman Wang is a well-known business elite in the city. How could she possibly meet you? Do you have any idea of your own status?"


    Faced with the skepticism and accusations, Mary simply pulled out the contract and handed it to Old Madame Xiao, "This is the project contract with Dihao Group, please take a look."


    The contract was like a bomb, exploding the atmosphere in the room!


    Robert Xiao still didn''t believe it and yelled, "This must be a forged contract! I don''t believe she could secure a deal with Dihao Group!"


    "That''s right!" Barbara added fuel to the fire, "How could she secure a contract with Dihao Group? It''s a thirty million project! If she could do it, I would have done it long ago!"


    Mary sneered, "Cousin, you''re mistaken. This contract is not for thirty million, it''s for sixty million!"


    "Get lost!" Barbara scoffed, "A sixty million contract? You really have the nerve to say that! Do you think we''re fools? If you can sign for sixty million, I might as well say I can sign for a billion!"


    Robert Xiao also said with a cold face, "Mary, are you taking grandma and all of us for fools?"


    Then, he turned to Old Madame Xiao and said, "Grandma! Mary is being utterly disrespectful! You can''t let her off!"


    Old Madame Xiao was also seething with anger. She had thought there was a ninety percent chance of failure for thirty million, and now Mary had come back in half an hour claiming to have signed for sixty million...


    Wasn''t this making a fool of her in front of so many people?


    Did she think the head of the family was a figurehead?


    Such an unworthy descendant had to be driven out, or how could she maintain her authority in the family?


    Old Madame Xiao, furious and agitated, slammed the table and shouted, "Mary Xiao! Go to HR and process your resignation immediately!"


    Mary was stunned. Had these people gone mad? Couldn''t they just open the contract and see for themselves, would it kill them?


    Just then, someone suddenly shouted, "Holy shit! Dihao Group''s official account just posted an announcement! The sixty million contract is real!"


    Proofreader & Editor: Peter Pan

 Chapter 10 – Kowtow and admit mistake!

    With that roar, everyone was stunned.


    Then, everyone hurriedly took out their phones to check Dihao Group''s official service account!


    Sure enough!


    The service account, verified by Dihao Group, had posted an announcement!


    "Dihao Group''s 2 billion hotel project signs its first partner, Vice Chairman Margaret Wang and Jinling Xiao Group''s representative Mary Xiao ink a 60 million yuan renovation contract!"


    Seeing this headline, everyone went wild!


    Mary Xiao had actually secured the project! And the amount had doubled!


    It had only been a little over half an hour!


    How could it be so easy?!


    This defied all logic!


    Robert Xiao was shocked and regretful!


    Before today, whether in status or identity, Mary was incomparable to him.


    If he had taken on this task yesterday, whether he succeeded or not, he wouldn''t have given Mary the chance to shine!


    But he had refused because he was afraid of failing!


    It was bad enough that he refused, but Mary actually succeeded!


    This was like a slap in his own face!


    Old Madame Xiao immediately picked up the contract, scrutinized it carefully, and burst into excited laughter: "Good! Good! Good! Mary, you''ve truly accomplished a great feat!"


    After that, she asked, "How did you do it?"


    Mary said, "Thanks to Vice Chairman Wang, she has a lot of faith in our Xiao Family."


    In truth, Mary wanted to be honest, but after thinking it over, she realized that not even she was clear on who the chairman of Dihao Group was, so speaking out might not be believed.


    Hearing this, Robert''s heart sank even further!


    Damn it, no wonder Mary could secure the contract!


    It turned out that Dihao Group''s Margaret Wang was already favorably disposed towards the Xiao Family!


    Does that mean anyone from the Xiao Family could have succeeded?


    Fuck!


    He had truly missed a golden opportunity!


    At that moment, James Ye spoke up: "Robert, do you remember our bet?"


    Robert''s expression instantly turned as ugly as if he had eaten shit.


    How could he forget the bet? The loser had to kowtow three times in public.


    Mary had secured the contract, clearly, he was the loser...


    Damn it!


    No way!


    How could he kowtow to such a loser and gigolo!


    Absolutely impossible!


    So he clenched his teeth and said, "James Ye, fuck you! What are you? Just a gigolo who married into our family, and now you fucking want me to kneel and kowtow to you?"


    James Ye replied indifferently, "I may indeed be a gigolo, but remember, we swore an oath yesterday. Whoever reneges, may their father, mother, grandfather, grandmother die!"


    James Ye deliberately emphasized the words "grandmother" heavily.


    Sure enough!


    Old Madame Xiao''s expression immediately turned extremely ugly!


    She stared at Robert, her voice cold as she interrogated him, "What? You want me to die?"


    Robert panicked and blurted out, "Grandma, don''t be fooled by James Ye! He wants to humiliate me and you!"


    James Ye then calmly said, "Robert, don''t try to deceive Grandma here. Remember, you swore an oath. If you go back on it, you''ll be cursed, and do you really want to curse Grandma?"


    Robert was horrified and blurted out, "Grandma, you can''t take a joke seriously!"


    Old Madame Xiao''s face was stern as she said, "You know I''m a devout Buddhist. You dare to break an oath made to heaven?"


    "Grandma..."


    Robert was truly panicked because he could see that Grandma was really angry!


    Old Madame Xiao saw that Robert, for the sake of his own face, was even willing to break an oath that was tied to their lives. She slammed the table and shouted angrily, "Are you determined to break your oath?"


    "Grandma, I..." Robert stammered, quickly weighing his options.


    If he honored the bet and apologized to James Ye, he would lose face.


    But if he didn''t honor the bet and angered Grandma, he would lose everything in the Xiao Family!


    With that thought, he reluctantly, but firmly said, "Fine! I accept the bet and will honor it!"


    James Ye watched him with a smile, silent, just waiting for him to kneel and kowtow.


    Robert felt his legs were as heavy as lead, moving with difficulty towards James Ye.


    Shaking with rage and clenching his teeth, he still fell to his knees.


    Some onlookers even quietly took out their phones.


    Robert bowed his head, his voice trembling, "I was wrong!"


    After speaking, he leaned forward and knocked his head on the ground with a thud.


    James Ye said, "What did you say? I didn''t hear you clearly. Louder."


    Suppressing his humiliation, Robert kowtowed again, "I was wrong!"


    James Ye sneered, "Oh, so you''re saying you were wrong. What exactly did you do wrong?"


    Robert, wishing he could kill James Ye, still had one more kowtow to go.


    So, he clenched his teeth and said, "I was wrong to doubt Mary''s capabilities..."


    After speaking, he kowtowed again!


    James Ye felt extremely satisfied!


    He had been fed up with Robert Xiao for a long time, and seizing this opportunity to make him kneel and admit his mistake felt truly exhilarating!


    Mary Xiao watched all this in astonishment, feeling that her husband suddenly seemed different!


    What exactly was different, she couldn''t quite pinpoint at the moment. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But recalling how confident her husband was when he made the bet with Robert yesterday, it seemed he had anticipated his own victory?


    Why did he have such strong confidence?


    Proofreader & Editor: Peter Pan

 Chapter 11 – Invite the chairman

    Robert Xiao kowtowed three times, tears of humiliation welling up in his eyes.


    But he didn''t dare to act rashly at this moment.


    He knew that his grandmother must be very displeased with him right now.


    Read this novel and other amazing translated novels from the original source at the ]"


    At this time, he couldn''t afford to say anything that might anger her further.


    Old Madame Xiao felt somewhat relieved seeing Robert kowtow and admit his mistake.


    It wasn''t that she wanted her grandson to kowtow to James Ye, this good-for-nothing, but the crucial point was that the oath involved her own life.


    She had always been a devout Buddhist, and if Robert didn''t kowtow and admit his mistake, she feared she wouldn''t be able to eat or sleep in peace, worried that retribution might fall upon her.


    So, she looked at Robert and said calmly, "Robert, these three kowtows are a lesson for you. In the future, don''t bet on things you''re not sure of. Even if you do, don''t drag the family into it!"


    Robert, with a tearful face, replied, "Grandma, I understand. I won''t dare to do it again..."


    As he spoke, his eyes glanced venomously at James, thinking, you piece of trash, forcing me to kneel and kowtow to you, humiliating me completely. I''ll definitely kill you one day!


    Then, Old Madame Xiao spoke up, "Today, it''s a great joy that Mary secured this contract. Everyone should seize this opportunity to establish a good relationship with Dihao Group!"


    James, standing to the side, reminded, "Grandma, since Mary secured the project cooperation, shouldn''t the position of company director go to her?"


    Old Madame Xiao raised an eyebrow, pondering silently. S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She had indeed said that whoever secured the contract would become the director.


    However, thinking about how she had never liked Mary, and how she had always been annoyed by her useless husband, she hesitated.


    If she elevated Mary, what if Mary became uncontrollable in the future?


    In that instant, she wanted to retract her previous promise.


    After all, she hadn''t sworn an oath when making the promise, so she could take it back with a clear conscience.


    However, she felt that such words shouldn''t be said right after Mary had signed the contract, so she said, "How about this, tomorrow night, I''ll hold a banquet and invite prominent figures from Jinling. At that time, I''ll announce our cooperation with Dihao Group and the appointment of the new director."


    Hearing this, James breathed a sigh of relief.


    Mary also smiled gently, thinking that the director''s position was finally hers. She wouldn''t be ostracized anymore, and her parents could hold their heads high!


    Old Madame Xiao turned to Mary and said, "Mary, there''s one more thing I need your help with."


    Mary quickly replied, "Grandma, please tell me."


    Old Madame Xiao said, "I want you to contact the chairman of Dihao and invite him to tomorrow''s banquet."


    After a pause, she added expectantly, "If he can attend our banquet, it would be a great honor for our Xiao Family and would greatly enhance our reputation!"


    Mary thought for a moment and hesitated, "But... last time I only met Dihao''s Vice Chairman, Margaret Wang. I haven''t met the chairman himself... And we''ve just secured their project, wouldn''t it seem too deliberate to host such a banquet now..."


    "So what? I want to show everyone in Jinling that we''re now tied to Dihao, and the Xiao Family is going to prosper!"


    After saying this, Old Madame Xiao added, "Even if the chairman of Dihao doesn''t come, inviting Margaret Wang would still be impressive. She''s the second-in-command at Dihao Group, and having her attend would be quite prestigious."


    At this point, Old Madame Xiao was already excited.


    Thinking about how those big families and corporations that used to look down on the Xiao Family might have to rely on them in the future made her blood boil.


    The Xiao Family, under her leadership, would become even more glorious!


    Mary thought for a moment and hesitantly replied, "I understand, I''ll try..."


    "Not try! You must invite them!"


    Mary nodded lightly, then quietly asked James, "What should I do? What if the chairman of Dihao doesn''t come? What if Margaret Wang doesn''t want to come either?"


    James chuckled and said, "Just give it a try. Don''t you have Margaret Wang''s phone number? Maybe she''ll agree as soon as you call."


    The Xiao Family''s banquet was not only to showcase their strength but also to announce Mary''s promotion to director.


    With his wife being promoted to director, it wouldn''t be a bad idea for James to attend and show support.


    At this moment, Mary had no idea that her husband was actually the chairman of Dihao Group. She sighed, still conflicted, "But the chairman of Dihao is said to be a young master from a prominent family in Yanjing. Such an important person must be extremely busy. How could he have time to attend a banquet..."


    James smiled, "I think it''s possible. Maybe he''s just at home every day, cooking and doing laundry for his wife?"


    Mary rolled her eyes at him, "Do you think everyone is like you?"


    James nodded, "Yes, it''s very possible that the boss of Dihao Group is just like me..."


    Mary pouted and said coquettishly, "Hmph! How could that be possible!"

 Chapter 12 – Sow discord

    Knowing that James Ye was joking, Mary Xiao didn''t mind. She walked to the side and dialed Margaret Wang''s number.


    Soon, the call connected.


    Margaret Wang''s pleasant voice came through, "Hello, Ms. Xiao."


    "Hello, Vice Chairman Wang. I have a favor to ask," Mary said, a bit embarrassed.


    "Sure, go ahead," Margaret replied.


    Mary took a deep breath to gather her courage before saying, "I wanted to ask if the Chairman is available tomorrow evening. Our family is hosting a banquet to officially announce our collaboration with Dihao Group. We hope the Chairman can grace us with his presence..."


    Margaret was silent for a moment before responding, "Ms. Xiao, I can''t make that decision. How about I ask the Chairman for his opinion?"


    Mary respectfully said, "Thank you, and sorry for the trouble."


    After hanging up, Mary anxiously held her phone, waiting for a response.


    Just then, James Ye''s phone suddenly rang.


    James was startled, then cursed himself for forgetting to put his phone on silent. It must be Margaret Wang calling to ask for his opinion...


    Feigning calm, James answered the phone with a simple "Hmm."


    Margaret''s voice came through, "Chairman, the Xiao Family is hosting a banquet tomorrow night and wants to know if you will attend."


    James replied, "Oh, I see. Sure, I''ll be there... Alright, that''s settled then..."


    After hanging up, James muttered, "These telemarketers are so annoying..."


    Mary didn''t suspect anything, but then her phone rang again.


    Margaret''s voice came through once more, "Ms. Xiao, our Chairman has agreed. He will attend the banquet!"


    "Really? That''s wonderful! Thank you so much, and please thank the Chairman for me," Mary said, overjoyed. She hadn''t expected such a positive response.


    Mary hurriedly told Old Madame Xiao, "Grandma! The Chairman of Dihao Group has agreed!"


    "Really?!" Old Madame Xiao was instantly excited.


    She immediately instructed the Xiao Family members present, "Everyone, get ready! Book the best hotel, the finest food and drinks, and prepare to welcome the Chairman of Dihao Group in grand style!"


    "Also, notify all major companies in the city and invite them to our banquet! Tell them the Chairman of Dihao Group will be attending!"


    The entire Xiao Family sprang into action, buzzing with excitement as they contacted various partners and high-profile figures in Jinling.


    This was undoubtedly a bombshell!


    In no time, the entire city of Jinling knew the news.


    The mysterious new Chairman of Dihao Group would make an appearance at the Xiao Family''s banquet tomorrow night!


    Old Madame Xiao received countless inquiries, to which she responded with a smile.


    She was overjoyed today because once the banquet concluded, the Xiao Family would undoubtedly become the most sought-after family in Jinling!


    Thinking of this, she smiled excitedly and said, "Alright, that''s it for today. Start preparing for tomorrow''s banquet. Meeting adjourned!"


    After the meeting, Old Madame Xiao returned to her office.


    Robert Xiao''s eyes flickered as he quickly followed her.


    "Grandma, are you really going to give the director position to Mary Xiao?"


    Once they were alone, Robert couldn''t help but ask directly.


    Old Madame Xiao frowned slightly and said coldly, "I''ve already promised Mary. Why shouldn''t I give it to her?"


    Robert insisted, "Grandma, you can''t let her be the director!"


    Old Madame Xiao retorted, "Why not? She secured such a significant contract. She deserves to be rewarded."


    Robert hurriedly said, "Mary only got the Dihao contract because Matthew Zhang helped her. I heard Matthew was at her house yesterday! And today, Dihao Group signed with us. It''s too much of a coincidence. I bet she slept with Matthew to get the contract!"


    Old Madame Xiao''s expression turned angry, "Is what you''re saying true?"


    Robert confidently replied, "Of course it''s true. Matthew Zhang did visit Mary last night. You can check."


    He then added, "Grandma, Mary is a married woman. If word gets out that she slept with Matthew to get the Dihao contract, where will our family''s reputation go? Where will your reputation go?"


    Old Madame Xiao frowned, already half-believing him.


    She knew Matthew Zhang liked Mary. He had even gifted her a jade Buddha pendant worth three to four million on her birthday. S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This could explain why Mary was able to secure a sixty-million contract.


    At this point, Robert continued, "If you let such a shameless woman be the director, our reputation will suffer even more. We need to choose someone else for the director position and credit them with securing the project. Preferably a man, to avoid any rumors."


    Old Madame Xiao nodded slightly.


    She believed most of what Robert said.


    It seemed she indeed needed to choose another director to quell the rumors.


    If people thought Mary got the contract by sleeping with Matthew, she could always explain that it was the new director who secured the project, not Mary selling herself.


    Moreover, Old Madame Xiao had another motive.


    For the full version, visit pawread dot com.


    She really didn''t like Mary. Being biased towards men, she didn''t want to see Mary''s status and power in the Xiao Family grow.


    She needed to suppress Mary to ensure the Xiao Family''s assets wouldn''t benefit outsiders.


    With this in mind, she had made her decision.


    She looked at Robert and coldly said, "Robert, in the company, you must always listen to me. Do what I say and never do what I forbid. Understand?"


    Robert immediately pledged his loyalty, "Don''t worry, Grandma. I''ll do whatever you say. I''ll follow your lead!"


    "Good." Old Madame Xiao nodded in satisfaction. "At tomorrow''s banquet, I''ll announce that you are the new director and will be fully responsible for the collaboration with Dihao Group. But remember, you must obey me. I can lift you up, and I can bring you down!"


    Robert was ecstatic and quickly said, "Don''t worry, Grandma! I''ll always listen to you!"

 Chapter 13 – Prepare for a surprise

    When Mary Xiao walked out of the Xiao Group, she was overwhelmed with excitement.


    Tomorrow, her grandmother would officially announce her new appointment, and she would finally be able to hold her head high!


    Thinking of this, she couldn''t help but say to James Ye, "James, thank you! If it weren''t for your encouragement, I wouldn''t have dared to take on this task."


    James smiled and said, "Honey, you deserve it."


    Then, he added, "By the way, honey, such a big happy event, shouldn''t we celebrate?"


    Mary nodded, "How do you want to celebrate?"


    James laughed, "It''s almost our third wedding anniversary, why don''t we celebrate both together? I''ll take care of the arrangements, you don''t have to worry about a thing."


    Mary asked in surprise, "Are you planning a surprise for me?"


    "Exactly!" James nodded, smiling, "I want to give you a surprise!"


    Mary felt a sweet warmth in her heart and said, "Then I won''t ask for the details!"


    James said, "No need to ask, just wait and see!"


    To prepare a special wedding anniversary for his wife, James had thought of many plans.


    Overall, it was all about making up for the past. After all, he used to be poor, couldn''t afford to buy gifts for his wife, and hadn''t even given her a proper wedding. Now that he had money, he had to make it up to her properly.


    After parting ways with his wife, James went alone to a jewelry store called Emerald Pavilion in the center of Jinling.


    Emerald Pavilion was the most famous jewelry store in the area.


    Gold, platinum, diamonds, jade, and emeralds, they had it all.


    James wanted to buy a gift for his wife first, and then book a belated wedding at the best hotel.


    When he arrived at Emerald Pavilion, the salespeople saw him wearing a four-striped Adidas jacket and couldn''t be bothered to pay him any attention.


    James looked around for a while and spotted a jade necklace locked in a display case.


    The necklace was made of the finest ice jade, exquisite and elegant, very fitting for Mary Xiao''s temperament.


    James looked at the price tag¡ªthirteen million. It was a small matter for him.


    So he called over a salesperson and said, "Hello, could you please take out this necklace for me to see?"


    The salesperson glanced at James and said, "I don''t have the key; it''s with our manager."


    Then, he used the walkie-talkie and said, "Manager Wang, someone wants to see our store''s treasure!"


    Soon, a flamboyantly dressed woman came running over excitedly. Her name was Beyonce Wang, the sales manager.


    "Which distinguished guest wants to see our store''s treasure?"


    The salesperson pointed at James and said, "Manager Wang, it''s this gentleman."


    "What?" Beyonce Wang looked at James and immediately felt disgusted, as if she had swallowed a fly.


    How could a loser like him afford the store''s treasure? S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Thinking of this, she immediately said to the male salesperson, "Xiao Liu, are you fucking kidding me?"


    The salesperson said, "No, this gentleman really wants to see the store''s treasure."


    Beyonce Wang cursed, "How could a loser afford the store''s treasure? Are you fucking blind? If you''re blind, just say so and get out of here before you piss me off!"


    Beyonce Wang prided herself on her ability to judge people accurately.


    She could tell at a glance what kind of person someone was and what their purchasing power was.


    So, she immediately judged that James was just a poor loser.


    He couldn''t even afford a thirteen-hundred-dollar necklace, let alone a thirteen-million-dollar treasure!


    Wasn''t this just a waste of her time?


    The male salesperson didn''t dare to speak after being scolded. James frowned and asked her, "Aren''t you in business to sell? What''s the problem with me wanting to see this necklace?"


    Beyonce Wang sneered, "We are in business, but we don''t do business with idiots. If you can''t afford it, don''t come here to make a scene!"


    James frowned and asked, "Which eye of yours sees that I can''t afford it?"


    "Haha!"


    Beyonce Wang said disdainfully, "This jade is worth over ten million. How are you going to buy it? I know, you just want me to take it out so you can take a picture and show off on social media, right?"


    With that, Beyonce Wang crossed her arms over her chest, looking arrogant and full of contempt.


    Hearing that the jade was worth tens of millions, many people around started pointing and whispering, "People like him are really shameless, can''t afford it but still want to see it, what''s the point?"


    "Exactly, showing off without considering his own status. With that outfit, how could he deserve such a fine jade?"


    "Let me tell you, there are too many idiots like this nowadays!"


    James glanced at Beyonce Wang behind the counter, seeing her sneering at him with disdain, he had already made up his mind to teach this snobbish woman a lesson!


    So, James took out his phone and dialed Anthony Tang''s number.


    "Come to Emerald Pavilion, bring thirteen million in cash. I want it here in ten minutes."


    "No problem, young master, I''m on my way."


    Beyonce Wang sneered, "Stupid asshole, still acting? Thirteen million in cash, I''ve never seen that much cash in my life. I hope you can open my eyes! Do you even know that cash over a million needs to be pre-ordered with the bank? Haha, you''re fucking hilarious!"


    James nodded and said, "Since you''ve never seen that much cash, you''ll see it soon."


    A quick look at " will leave you more fulfilled.


    Everyone around started talking.


    "Being poor isn''t the problem, the problem is pretending to be rich..."


    "Haha, this guy doesn''t look like a rich person at all. Thirteen million, if he can come up with three hundred thousand, I''ll call him dad!"


    "I just want to see what thirteen million in cash looks like!"


    Hearing everyone siding with her, Beyonce Wang couldn''t help but smile. She couldn''t wait to see how that poor guy would handle the situation when he couldn''t produce the cash.


    A few minutes later, several Rolls-Royces suddenly stopped at the entrance of Emerald Pavilion.


    Then, eight bodyguards in black suits got out of the first two Rolls-Royces.


    They were carrying black briefcases, their muscles taut, faces stern, exuding a chilling aura that made the atmosphere around them heavy.


    This scene immediately shocked everyone in Emerald Pavilion!


    Who could this big shot be, with such an impressive entourage!

 Chapter 14 – I am a god-level tycoon

    Seeing such a grand scene, Beyonce Wang was also taken aback, thinking to herself, could it really be that loser who called these people?


    But then she thought, how could that be possible!


    That loser couldn''t possibly know such powerful people.


    Anthony Tang stepped out of the third Rolls-Royce and walked into the Emerald Pavilion. Beyonce Wang quickly got up to greet him.


    But Anthony Tang didn''t even glance at her and walked straight towards James Ye.


    "Young master, I''m here, and I brought the money."


    As Anthony Tang spoke, he waved his hand, and the bodyguards behind him walked into the Emerald Pavilion, placing a box full of money on the ground and opening it.


    Inside was a dense pile of red cash!


    Everyone around gasped in shock!


    Holy shit!


    This stinking loser... oh no! What he said turned out to be true!


    My god, who on earth is this big shot!


    Many people quickly took out their phones to record videos. They didn''t want to miss such a shocking scene.


    However, Anthony Tang''s bodyguards immediately cleared them all out, so they could only capture the back of James Ye''s head.


    James Ye pointed at the pile of cash on the ground and asked Beyonce Wang, "Haven''t you seen this much money before? Have you seen it now?"


    Beyonce Wang was scared out of her wits and nodded timidly, "I''ve seen it, I''ve seen it..."


    James Ye said to Anthony Tang, "I want to see the manager of this store."


    Anthony Tang nodded, took out his phone, searched for a moment, and dialed a number.


    As soon as the call connected, he shouted into the phone, "You bastard, this is Anthony Tang. I''m at the Emerald Pavilion right now. You have one minute to get your ass out here! Or I''ll have someone burn down the Emerald Pavilion and break your legs!"


    Beyonce Wang''s face turned pale, and she looked at Anthony Tang with fear in her eyes.


    Is this person really that powerful?


    Her boss was a well-known figure in Jinling, respected in the underworld. Who would dare to speak to him like that?


    Not even a minute had passed when a middle-aged fat man came running out of the back office, stumbling and crawling. As soon as he saw Anthony Tang, he rushed forward and said, "Mr. Tang, if you were coming to my humble store, you should have told me in advance so I could welcome you properly."


    Anthony Tang slapped him hard across the face and said angrily, "You sure have some nerve. Your staff dared to disrespect our young master. Are you tired of living?"


    Anthony Tang knew that the young master had endured many grievances over the years, and seeing a store employee give him a hard time made him furious.


    The middle-aged fat man, after being slapped, felt aggrieved at first, but upon hearing this, he was scared out of his wits.


    Anthony Tang''s young master? My god, Anthony Tang was already like a dragon; his young master must be like a deity.


    His legs trembled as he turned to look at James Ye standing next to Anthony Tang. Although he looked ordinary, this person was the young master of the Tang family!


    Thinking of this, the middle-aged fat man became even more terrified and quickly said, "Young... young master, I''m truly sorry. I apologize to you."


    Then he turned around, his face full of anger, and shouted, "Who the hell offended the young master? Step forward!"


    The other salespeople''s eyes instantly focused on Beyonce Wang.


    Beyonce Wang quickly tried to shrink back.


    But the middle-aged fat man pounced on her in an instant, grabbed her collar, and slapped her across the face, shouting, "You dog of a woman, how dare you offend the young master? Are you blind?"


    Beyonce Wang was slapped to the ground, crying and shouting, "Boss, I''m sorry, I was blind. Please forgive me this time!"


    "Forgive you?" The middle-aged fat man grabbed her hair, pulled her face up, and punched her hard in the face.


    Punch after punch, her face was covered in blood: "Fuck you, are you trying to get me killed? If you want to get me killed, I''ll kill you first!"


    Several of Beyonce Wang''s teeth were knocked out, and her recently done nose was broken, her face covered in blood.


    She crawled to James Ye''s side, grabbed his leg, and cried, "Young master, I really know I was wrong. I''ll never look down on anyone again. Please forgive me."


    James Ye said coldly, "You brought this on yourself."


    The middle-aged fat man saw her grabbing James Ye''s leg and was scared out of his wits. He ran over and stomped on her head, cursing, "Fuck you, you think you can touch the young master''s leg? I''ll kill you!"


    With that stomp, Beyonce Wang immediately fainted.


    The middle-aged fat man said to the security guards beside him, "Throw this stupid asshole who looks down on people into the trash heap in the back!"


    "Yes, boss!" The security guards didn''t dare delay and immediately carried the bloodied Beyonce Wang out.


    James Ye, expressionless, said to the middle-aged fat man, "My wife likes that piece of jade. Wrap it up for me."


    The middle-aged fat man quickly nodded and agreed, saying, "Sure, I''ll wrap it up for you right away!"


    James Ye took out a black card and said, "Charge it to this card."


    Then he said to Anthony Tang, "Take the cash back."


    The middle-aged fat man hurriedly said, "Young master, if you like this jade, I''ll give it to you as a gift!"


    James Ye said, "I don''t need your gift."


    The middle-aged fat man said timidly, "Young master, please accept it as a small token of my apology."


    It can be hard to make great work when its stolen from ".


    Anthony Tang said to James Ye, "Young master, since he wants to give it as an apology, you should accept it. Otherwise, he won''t be able to sleep tonight."


    James Ye hesitated for a moment, then nodded lightly, "Alright, thank you then."


    Seeing James Ye accept the jade necklace, the fat man finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    If James Ye hadn''t accepted the necklace, he was really afraid that Anthony Tang wouldn''t let him off. With his power, a mere flick of his finger could make him disappear.


    At this moment, Anthony Tang asked James Ye, "Young master, do you need me to give you a ride?"


    "No need." James Ye waved his hand and said, "Where''s the back door? I''ll leave by myself."


    The onlookers were truly amazed today!


    Several Rolls-Royces delivered 13 million in cash just to buy a piece of jade.


    In the end, the owner of the Emerald Pavilion didn''t even dare to take the money!


    Who on earth was that seemingly unremarkable young man?


    Many people uploaded the video online, and it quickly went viral.


    Netizens started calling this mysterious person a "super second-generation wealthy," "domineering CEO," "god-level tycoon," and even launched a "search for the god-level tycoon" campaign, with countless people actively participating.


    Fortunately, when these people were filming the video, they had already been cleared out of the store by the bodyguards, so the video of James Ye was very blurry and couldn''t be used as a reference to find him. S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 15 – For the rest of your life, forget about it!

    After leaving the Emerald Pavilion, James Ye didn''t go home immediately.


    He wanted to give his wife a complete surprise on their wedding anniversary.


    This surprise wasn''t just a jade necklace; he also wanted to make up for the romantic wedding they never had.


    Back then, James and Mary Xiao got married hastily under Old Master Xiao''s request, and there was no time for a proper wedding.


    The old master had originally planned to choose an auspicious date for a grand wedding.


    But unexpectedly, shortly after they got their marriage certificate, he fell seriously ill and was hospitalized, so the wedding plans were postponed.


    Later, when the old master passed away, no one in the Xiao Family looked up to James, so the wedding never had a chance to be held.


    However, James felt that now that he had money, he must give his wife the grandest and most dignified wedding!


    When he thought about the wedding, the first place that came to his mind was the Hanging Gardens at the Buckingham Palace Hotel!


    The Buckingham Palace Hotel is currently the best hotel in Jinling, bar none!


    The hotel covers a large area, is luxuriously decorated, and even has a large, high-end shopping mall inside.


    The Hanging Gardens are located on the top floor of this shopping mall.


    It''s called the Hanging Gardens because it''s entirely made of crystal glass, designed by a top Italian designer, and decorated with a large number of high-end fresh flowers flown in from abroad. From a distance, it looks like a grand garden floating in the air.


    This is also the most grand and luxurious banquet hall in all of Jinling. Hosting a wedding here would cost at least several million, if not tens of millions.


    Now that James has money, a few million is nothing to him. As long as he can make his wife happy, that''s all that matters.


    So he went to the Buckingham Palace Hotel, intending to book the Hanging Gardens for their wedding anniversary.


    However, James didn''t know that the Buckingham Palace Hotel operates on a membership system.


    Whether dining, staying, or hosting a banquet here, you must have a hotel membership.


    Moreover, different membership levels offer different services.


    Ordinary members can only dine in the main hall and stay in standard rooms;


    Silver members can dine in private rooms and stay in high-end luxury rooms;


    Gold members can dine in luxury private rooms and stay in luxury suites;


    Platinum members can dine in the Hanging Gardens and stay in top luxury suites.


    The highest level is Diamond membership.


    Only Diamond members are eligible to stay in the presidential suite, and only Diamond members can book the entire Hanging Gardens for an event.


    Furthermore, memberships above the Gold level can''t be obtained just by having money; you need sufficient social status.


    When James arrived at the Buckingham Palace Hotel, he was stopped by several black-clothed security guards before he even entered. S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Sorry, sir, please show your membership card."


    James''s clothes, worth less than two hundred yuan in total, made him stand out starkly compared to the well-dressed, affluent guests.


    James hurriedly said, "Gentlemen, I want to speak with your client manager about booking the venue."


    One of them replied coldly, "Sorry, you can''t enter without a membership card!"


    James said, "Can I apply for a membership card now?"


    The guard shook his head, "Sorry, you need a qualified introducer to apply for a membership card."


    James frowned, thinking this Buckingham Palace Hotel was too troublesome.


    Just as he was at a loss, he suddenly remembered that when Old Master Xiao arranged for him to attend Jinling University with his wife during their senior year, he had a college classmate named Lisa Bi who seemed to work here!


    So, he quickly took out his phone and called Lisa Bi.


    After explaining his situation, Lisa immediately said, "Class Monitor Ye, leave this to me. I''ll be right there!"


    James quickly thanked her.


    It seemed that even though they were only college classmates for a year, there was still some camaraderie between them. He must repay this favor to Lisa in the future.


    "Oh my, Class Monitor Ye!"


    A few minutes later, a woman''s exclamation came from inside the hotel.


    Looking up, James saw a heavily made-up, flamboyantly dressed woman walking out of the hotel.


    Lisa Bi? She had changed so much! He almost didn''t recognize her!


    Seeing the flamboyant woman, the two black-clothed security guards at the door hurriedly bowed and respectfully called out, "Group Leader Bi."


    James said in surprise, "Lisa, it''s been years, and you''re already a group leader at the Buckingham Palace Hotel. That''s impressive!"


    Lisa smiled, "Class Monitor, you''re too kind. I''m just a small group leader in the HR department, only a mid-to-low level leader at the Buckingham Palace Hotel."


    James sincerely praised, "That''s still impressive. I''ve heard the management standards at the Buckingham Palace Hotel are very high. You''re truly remarkable!"


    Lisa smiled proudly, then looked at the two black-clothed security guards beside her and coldly questioned, "Are you the ones who stopped my college class monitor at the door and didn''t let him in?"


    The two guards exchanged a glance, and one of them quickly said, "Sorry, Group Leader Bi, I didn''t know he was your college classmate, and he didn''t have a membership card. I was just following hotel rules..."


    Lisa snorted, "Rules are dead, but people are alive. Don''t you understand that?"


    James thought Lisa was going to punish them for this and quickly said, "Lisa, don''t make it hard for them. They''re just following the rules."


    Lisa looked at James and suddenly laughed, her expression changing to one of mockery, "Class Monitor Ye, you think too highly of yourself. Did you really think I would trouble my subordinates for you?"


    For the full version, visit [ ].


    James frowned, "Lisa, what do you mean by this?"


    "What do I mean?" Lisa sneered, "Isn''t it obvious? A loser like you wants to enter the Buckingham Palace Hotel? Let me tell you, you can forget about it for the rest of your life!"


    James clenched his fists and questioned her, "What do you mean?"


    "I''m just messing with you!" Lisa laughed hysterically, "Back in college, I couldn''t stand you. A loser who only knew how to study, couldn''t even afford a meat dish in the cafeteria, and you were the class monitor? Criticizing my grades? Pfft! Look at yourself!"


    James''s expression turned cold as he questioned, "Lisa! I''ve never wronged you. Why do you keep mocking me?"

 Chapter 16 – Wouldnt he hold a grudge?

    Lisa Bi crossed her arms and said arrogantly, "I look down on you, so what? You''re a loser, and I can''t even talk about it?"


    "Everyone from college knows you became a live-in son-in-law after graduation. You couldn''t afford food during school, and now you''re just a gigolo. How dare you come to me for help? What kind of trash are you!"


    Hearing Lisa''s mockery, James Ye felt a surge of anger.


    If people don''t provoke me, I won''t provoke them!


    But Lisa had really crossed the line this time!


    Just then, his phone buzzed with a message from Anthony Tang: "Young master, the Buckingham Palace Hotel is one of our Ye Group''s properties. The one in Jinling is just one of over a hundred Buckingham Palace chain hotels we own."


    James''s eyes widened in shock!


    The Buckingham Palace Hotel belonged to the Ye Family?


    He instinctively replied, "Are you kidding me?"


    This novel is available on ".


    Anthony responded, "Young master, the person in charge of the Jinling Buckingham Palace is named Charles Chen. His phone number is 155... Call him, and he''ll handle everything."


    James was about eighty percent convinced and replied, "Got it."


    Seeing James constantly texting, Lisa felt frustrated.


    She felt like she was bullying a dog, and of course, she wanted to hear the dog whimper in pain to feel satisfied.


    But she didn''t expect James to remain silent.


    It seemed that this class president, who was a loser in college, was still a loser now, unmoved even when insulted.


    So she intensified her attack, sneering, "Oh, class president, you sure can endure!"


    "By the way, I heard you''ve been married to Mary Xiao, the school beauty, for three years and still haven''t slept with her. Is she someone else''s mistress? Are you just a cover for her affair? Hahaha!" S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    James frowned deeply.


    Insulting me is one thing, but insulting my wife?


    Lisa, you''re asking for it!


    He then dialed the number of Charles Chen, the Buckingham Palace manager, and looked at Lisa, saying calmly, "I want to ask your manager how the Buckingham Palace Hotel hires employees. How could they hire someone like you who talks so much trash!"


    "Dare to insult me? Fuck you, you''re tired of living!" Lisa exploded and shouted at the security guards beside her, "Damn it, he''s here to cause trouble. Beat him up!"


    At this moment, James had already dialed the number.


    "Hello, who''s this?"


    A man''s authoritative voice came through the phone.


    James asked coldly, "Are you Charles Chen? My name is James Ye. I''m at the entrance of the Buckingham Palace Hotel. You have one minute to get down here, or you''ll be out of the Buckingham Palace for good!"


    The man on the other end, who had been full of authority, suddenly panicked and asked, "Y-Young master? Are you really at the Buckingham Palace entrance?"


    James replied coldly, "You have fifty seconds left!"


    The other party seemed terrified and blurted out, "Please wait, I''m coming right away!"


    Lisa was amused by James''s phone call and mocked, "James, I never realized you could brag so much. Do you know who Mr. Chen is? Even the top members of the Buckingham Palace wouldn''t dare show off in front of him. Do you think pretending to make a phone call will scare me?"


    James said calmly, "You''ll know if I''m bluffing in thirty seconds."


    Lisa laughed loudly, "Alright, class president, I''ll wait with you for thirty seconds! No, I''ll wait three minutes! If Mr. Chen doesn''t come out in three minutes, I''ll have the security tear your mouth apart! Let''s see how you brag then! Hahaha! This is hilarious!"


    Twenty seconds later.


    A middle-aged man in a top-tier custom suit came running out in a panic.


    He was a dog of the Ye Family, but a very powerful one.


    Since he took charge of the Jinling Buckingham Palace, he had been one of the most respected figures in Jinling. When had he ever been so flustered?


    But now, he had no choice but to be flustered.


    He never dreamed that the young master would appear at the Buckingham Palace he managed!


    If he didn''t hurry to the entrance to greet him, he would be in big trouble if the young master got angry...


    At this moment, Lisa was about to continue mocking James when she noticed the security guards around her looking behind her with terrified expressions.


    She instinctively turned around and was shocked to see Mr. Chen running out. She was thunderstruck.


    Then she looked at James, her eyes filled with astonishment, "This... how is this possible..."


    "Who is James Ye, Mr. Ye?!"


    Charles Chen''s voice trembled as he spoke.


    Everyone around was dumbfounded. This Mr. Chen, who could shake Jinling with a stomp, was now so flustered that his voice had changed!


    James then spoke, "I am."


    Charles Chen immediately rushed over and bowed, "Y-Young..."


    Before he could finish, James interrupted, "Mr. Chen, some things are better left unsaid in public."


    Charles Chen was even more terrified upon hearing this.


    Damn, I''m such a stupid dog! The young master''s identity must be highly confidential, and I almost blurted it out. If the young master gets angry, I''m done for!


    He quickly changed his address but still spoke respectfully, "Mr. Ye, welcome to the Buckingham Palace. Please step into my office for a detailed discussion."


    Lisa was already scared out of her wits!


    She couldn''t accept this reality, but it was happening right before her eyes.


    She couldn''t help but wonder, "Who exactly is this James Ye? How could he make the big boss of the Buckingham Palace treat him with such respect?"


    "I just mocked him so much. Won''t he hold a grudge against me?!"

 Chapter 17 – What do you mean

    Thinking of this, Lisa Bi quickly put on a flattering expression and sweetly said to James Ye, "Class Monitor Ye, it''s such an honor for Buckingham Palace to have you here, and it''s also my honor as your old classmate. Please come in..."


    She thought that by flattering James a bit, he would forget or overlook her previous behavior.


    But she had underestimated James''s character.


    Charles Chen, upon hearing Lisa''s words, was overjoyed and asked, "Lisa, are you Mr. Ye''s classmate?"


    "Yes, yes!" Lisa hurriedly replied, "Mr. Ye was my class monitor in college, and we were very close!"


    Charles immediately said, "Great, great! Tomorrow, you will report to the president''s office and from now on, you will be the HR manager of Buckingham Palace!"


    From a team leader to an HR manager, that''s at least a three-level jump in Buckingham Palace, and the benefits would be more than ten times better!


    Moreover, the HR manager holds the power over most employees'' fates, definitely one of the top executives.


    Lisa was so excited upon hearing this that she almost fainted.


    At this moment, James''s expression turned cold as he asked, "Mr. Chen, do you know what kind of relationship I have with Lisa Bi?"


    Charles thought James was dissatisfied with his arrangement and immediately said in a panic, "If Mr. Ye is not satisfied, then Lisa can directly be promoted to vice president of the hotel!"


    Lisa was almost moved to tears with excitement!


    Vice president? That''s second only to the president!


    But just then, James suddenly said sternly, "I called Lisa for help because I didn''t have a membership card, but she humiliated me for no reason and even tried to have the security guards beat me up. And you want to promote her to vice president? What do you mean by this? Are you deliberately trying to go against me?"


    Hearing this, Charles felt a chill in his heart.


    Damn it! He had tried to flatter but ended up offending!


    Immediately, he looked at Lisa with anger.


    Then, he slapped Lisa hard across the face and angrily scolded, "How dare you offend Mr. Ye? Do you have a death wish?"


    Lisa was so scared that she went weak all over, kneeling on the ground and continuously kowtowing, crying, "Mr. Chen, I was wrong."


    Charles kicked Lisa hard, sending her flying several meters away, and scolded, "You blind dog! Today, I''ll make you understand the cost of offending Mr. Ye!"


    Then he ordered the security guards beside him, "Beat her up! Beat her half to death, ruin her surgically altered face, and then tell everyone in Jinling that any company that dares to hire her will be going against me, Charles Chen!"


    Lisa was scared out of her wits and hurriedly pleaded, "Mr. Chen, I was wrong, please forgive me!"


    Charles, in a fit of rage, shouted, "Now you know you were wrong? What were you doing earlier? How dare you offend Young Master Ye? If it weren''t for Young Master Ye''s face, I''d have killed you!"


    Lisa broke down in tears, crawling on her knees to James and continuously kowtowing, "Class Monitor Ye, I was wrong, I''m sorry! Please consider our past as classmates..."


    James coldly asked, "Lisa Bi, as classmates, why did you insult me and my wife just now?"


    Lisa cried bitterly, "Class Monitor, I was momentarily confused, it''s all my fault, please forgive me..."


    James said, "If people do not offend me, I will not offend them. But if people offend me, I will not let them go!"


    Then, with a cold snort, he added, "You brewed this bitter wine, now drink it yourself!"


    Charles scolded, "You wretched woman, if you dare to speak against Young Master Ye again, I''ll have someone tear your mouth apart!"


    Lisa dared not plead anymore and knelt on the ground, crying bitterly.


    James showed no sympathy for her and directly ignored her, saying to Charles with a blank expression, "I want to talk to you about the Hanging Gardens. Let''s go to your office."


    Find the original at bit.ly/3iBfjkV.


    Charles hurriedly nodded and respectfully said, "Mr. Ye, please follow me!"


    After saying that, he pointed at the security guards beside him and ordered, "Beat her up hard!"


    "Yes, Mr. Chen!"


    The security guards dared not disobey him and immediately rushed up to hold Lisa down and beat her up.


    Lisa kept wailing, but James paid no attention and, under Charles''s obsequious guidance, entered Buckingham Palace.


    As soon as they reached Charles''s office, James went straight to the point, "In a few days, it''s my wedding anniversary with my wife. I want to book the entire Hanging Gardens. Can you make it happen?"


    Charles didn''t hesitate and said, "Young Master, the Hanging Gardens has always refused private bookings to ensure fairness for all high-end members. Even the city''s top leaders can''t book it. But if you need it, the Hanging Gardens can be exclusively open for you forever!"


    James calmly said, "That''s not necessary. Just reserve it for the anniversary day. Also, I need your cooperation to prepare a surprise for my wife."


    Charles immediately said, "Rest assured, Young Master, the entire staff of Buckingham Palace will follow your instructions!"


    ...


    After settling the matter at Buckingham Palace, James took the bus home. Almost all the passengers were engrossed in the hottest short video apps.


    To his surprise, everyone was watching the same video!


    It was the video of him spending 13 million in cash at the Emerald Pavilion!


    The video started with Anthony Tang''s Rolls-Royce convoy.


    A string of top-tier Rolls-Royce cars, several black-suited bodyguards carrying black leather cases, 13 million in cash thrown on the ground, and the sales manager who looked down on him being utterly humiliated¡ªall of it was posted online.


    However, the video didn''t capture James''s face.


    The video quickly went viral in Jinling, with countless people speculating about who this super-rich person was.


    Many young women even fantasized about being Cinderella meeting her prince, hoping to one day encounter this low-key tycoon.


    James confirmed several times that he was not easily recognizable in the video before finally feeling relieved and heading home.


    At home, the atmosphere was jubilant.


    Mary Xiao had secured a contract with the Dihao Group and was about to become a director at the Xiao Group. Her parents were naturally moved to tears.


    Having been looked down upon in the Xiao Family for so many years, they could finally hold their heads high!


    Her father-in-law and mother-in-law were so happy that they didn''t find James as annoying as before.


    Her mother-in-law excitedly said, "Oh, today is such a happy day. My daughter is truly exceptional!"


    Then she looked at James and, for once, smiled, "James, you also inspired Mary, so you don''t have to cook today. Let''s go to a restaurant for a meal!"


    Mary smiled and said, "Let''s go to the Kempinski for some Western food!" S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "That''s too expensive!" her mother-in-law blurted out, "Doesn''t it cost over a thousand per person?"


    Mary laughed and said, "Mom, the director''s salary is very high, a million a year."


    "Oh my!" Her mother-in-law clapped her hands in delight, "That''s wonderful! My Mary has finally made it!"


    Then she added, "But you must give at least 70% of your salary to your mom. You young people don''t understand the importance of financial management. Give the money to me, and I''ll keep it safe for you. It''s much more reliable than you saving it yourself!"


    Mary immediately nodded and smiled, "Okay, Mom, I''ll give it to you every month. But let''s agree on one thing: you can''t keep criticizing James. After all, he''s your son-in-law!"


    Her mother-in-law beamed, "Alright! For your sake, I''ll try to say less about him in the future!"

 Chapter 18 – Do you even deserve it?

    When the family of four went to Kempinski for dinner, Matthew Zhang was sulking at home.


    He had also seen the Dihao Group''s announcement and was feeling quite depressed.


    He had thought that Mary Xiao would never be able to secure a contract with Dihao Group, but to his surprise, she managed to land a sixty-million-dollar contract in just one morning. Reflecting on the harsh words he had said at her house yesterday, wasn''t this a slap in his own face?


    Robert Xiao even called to complain, starting off with, "Matthew, you''re really something! I''ve been helping you get close to my cousin, and now you go and help her secure a deal with Dihao Group. Aren''t you making me look bad?"


    Matthew Zhang felt wronged. What the hell? He hadn''t helped Mary Xiao at all!


    At this moment, Robert Xiao asked, "Matthew, tell me the truth. Did you sleep with my cousin?"


    Matthew Zhang felt awkward denying it, as it would imply he was admitting his incompetence. So he mumbled, "Yeah, sorry about that, Robert. I''ll make it up to you next time."


    "I knew it!" Robert Xiao sighed and then quickly asked, "Matthew, my cousin is still a virgin, right? She never let that loser touch her. You really hit the jackpot this time!"


    Hearing this, Matthew Zhang felt a surge of joy.


    Great! Mary Xiao is still a virgin!


    Why not spread the word that she slept with him? This could even strain her relationship with her husband.


    Thinking of this, he grinned and said to Robert Xiao, "Robert, your cousin is indeed still a virgin. It was really amazing, haha!"


    Robert Xiao said bitterly, "Then you better not forget to share the benefits with me in the future, Matthew!"


    "Don''t worry!" Matthew Zhang readily agreed.


    After hanging up with Robert Xiao, Matthew Zhang''s father suddenly called.


    As soon as the call connected, his father blurted out, "Matthew, something''s wrong! The Dihao Group has terminated all our contracts! Have you offended anyone recently?"


    Hearing this, Matthew Zhang felt a chill run down his spine.


    The Dihao Group terminated all contracts with the Zhang Family? Doesn''t that mean a huge loss for the family?


    He quickly asked, "What''s going on, Dad? I haven''t offended anyone recently! Have you?"


    His father replied dejectedly, "I haven''t either! I''ve been at the company all this time and haven''t gone out to offend anyone..."


    Matthew Zhang nervously said, "Dad, could it be that the new chairman of Dihao Group is planning a shake-up?"


    "Very likely!" His father suddenly realized, "The new chairman just took over, and I haven''t had a chance to meet him. I''ve mentioned it to Margaret Wang several times, but she always says the chairman doesn''t see visitors."


    Matthew Zhang asked, "What should we do then?"


    His father thought for a moment and said, "Oh right, the Xiao Family has a banquet tomorrow night and they''ve invited the chairman of Dihao Group. Let''s go and try to meet him!"


    "Alright!" Matthew Zhang immediately agreed, "We''ll go together tomorrow!"


    ...


    The next day, the Xiao Family''s most important moment had arrived, and everyone in the family was excited and restless.


    Because after a night of fermenting, the news that the Xiao Family had secured a contract with Dihao Group and invited the chairman to their family banquet had spread throughout Jinling!


    James Ye, preparing for the banquet, put on his most expensive suit and headed to the hotel where the banquet was being held. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As soon as he arrived at the hotel entrance and got out of the car, he saw a Porsche screech to a halt in front of him.


    Matthew Zhang, dressed in a designer suit with meticulously groomed hair, stepped out of the car.


    Soon, a reception staff member approached and warmly greeted Matthew Zhang.


    Matthew Zhang also noticed James Ye and looked at him with disdain. He glanced up and down at James and sneered, "Where did you get that knockoff suit? Trying to look all fancy."


    James Ye calmly asked, "What''s it to you?"


    Matthew Zhang smirked with a hint of mockery, "It has nothing to do with me, but your wife, she has something to do with me now..."


    James Ye frowned slightly and asked, "What do you mean?"


    People around them couldn''t help but stop and listen.


    Since last night, a rumor had been circulating in their circle.


    The rumor said that the reason Mary Xiao was able to secure a deal with Dihao Group was because she had slept with Matthew Zhang. Otherwise, with her and the Xiao Family''s capabilities, how could they have landed a deal with Dihao Group?


    Now it seemed there might be some truth to it.


    Seeing the crowd gather, Matthew Zhang arrogantly said to James Ye, "What do you think is the reason Mary was able to secure a deal with Dihao Group?"


    James Ye looked at Matthew Zhang coldly and asked, "What reason?"


    Matthew Zhang smirked and said, "Of course, it''s because of me. Mary is my woman now, so I helped her secure the deal with Dihao. If you know what''s good for you, you should divorce her and let us be together."


    Although the crowd had already suspected it, hearing Matthew Zhang say it outright still shocked them.


    So Mary Xiao really did sleep with Matthew Zhang to get the Dihao Group deal!


    This novel is available on ".


    "Because of you?" James Ye laughed instead of getting angry and said, "Do you even deserve it?"

 Chapter 19 – I am a super tycoon!

    "Am I not worthy? Are you?"


    Matthew Zhang''s eyes were cold as he said, "You''re just a worthless piece of trash. You can''t even keep an eye on your own wife. Mary is suffering with you. She''d be much better off with me. I can give her anything she wants!"


    James Ye''s face turned icy. Lowering his voice, he said coldly, "I''ll give you two choices. First, kneel and apologize to Mary in front of everyone, and take back everything you said. Second, I''ll make sure your family''s company goes bankrupt. You decide."


    "Hahaha, are you kidding me? Who do you think you are, making my family''s company go bankrupt?"


    Matthew Zhang laughed wildly, looking at James with disdain, clearly not taking his words seriously.


    "Are you delusional? How are you going to bankrupt my family''s company? Do you even know its market value? You think you can just say ''bankrupt'' and it happens?"


    James remained expressionless, staring at Matthew as if he were an idiot. He then took out his phone and called Anthony Tang.


    "In three minutes, I want to see Matthew Zhang''s company bankrupt and its debts exposed."


    Three minutes to bankrupt a company worth billions? It was like a daydream!


    Matthew''s eyes were filled with malice as he stared at James. "Damn it, you''re full of crap! Do you think you''re some kind of online super tycoon?"


    Then, Matthew coldly added, "Trash, stop pretending. I''ll give you two choices too. First, kneel and apologize to me, then divorce Mary immediately. Second, I''ll get some people to cripple you and make you watch as I live happily with Mary. You decide! I''ll give you one minute!"


    James glanced at his phone and said, "You have one minute left. Are you sure you don''t want to reconsider?"


    "Get lost! You have thirty seconds to think. If you don''t kneel, you''ll regret it for the rest of your life!" Matthew said indifferently.


    "Twenty seconds!"


    "Ten seconds!"


    "Five seconds!"


    "Time''s up. Don''t blame me for being ruthless. You''re the one asking for it!" Matthew shook his collar and signaled to his bodyguards to deal with James.


    But just then, Matthew''s phone rang.


    Matthew was stunned. Seeing it was his father calling, he quickly answered.


    "Dad, I''m already at the banquet. Are you here?"


    On the other end, his father roared, "You idiot! Who did you offend? What trouble did you cause? All our shareholders are dumping our stocks like crazy! Our stock has dropped over eighty percent!"


    His father continued to shout, "The bank suddenly demanded repayment of our debts! All our partners have abruptly terminated their contracts and stopped payments! Our cash flow is cut off! We have no choice but to declare bankruptcy!"


    We are "pawread dot com", find us on google.


    Matthew''s face turned ashen, and cold sweat dripped from his forehead.


    "Our family is finished! Completely finished!"


    As he tried to ask more, he heard police sirens and the sound of doors being broken down, followed by officers demanding his father''s cooperation for an investigation.


    He suddenly felt weak all over, dropping his phone, which shattered on the ground.


    His legs gave way, and he knelt before James.


    The wind blew, leaving his body and heart cold.


    The bodyguards, seeing this scene, were unsure and did not move forward.


    Matthew, terrified, asked James in a low voice, "Who are you? You did all this, didn''t you?"


    The onlookers were also shocked. Matthew had taken a call and suddenly knelt before the Xiao family''s live-in son-in-law. What was going on?


    James looked down at him, bent slightly, and said in a low voice, "I gave you a choice, but you didn''t choose wisely."


    "I know I was wrong. I apologize. Please, spare me! Mary has nothing to do with me. I never touched her. The Dihao Group project wasn''t because of me. Everything I said was made up. Please, forgive me and my family!"


    Matthew kept kowtowing and apologizing. He never dreamed that the Xiao family''s live-in son-in-law would have such power! One phone call, and his family was bankrupt!


    Looking at James''s calm face, he felt it was more terrifying than a demon''s!


    To bankrupt his family in minutes, such a person was not someone he could afford to offend!


    James shook his head and said, "You should be grateful because at least I spared your life! Otherwise, your entire family would be dead by now!"


    Hearing this, Matthew''s face turned deathly pale, and he trembled violently.


    James looked at him and said coldly, "To tell you the truth, I am that online super tycoon. If you don''t want to die, you''d better keep my identity a secret. Otherwise, you and your father won''t live to see tomorrow!" S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With that, James patted Matthew''s face and walked into the hall without another glance.


    Matthew collapsed on the ground, completely humiliated, but he didn''t dare to resist at all.


    Seeing James walk into the hall, Matthew scrambled in as well.


    Spotting Mary Xiao, he crawled over and knelt at her feet, kowtowing and crying, "Mary, I''m sorry. I shouldn''t have spread rumors about you. The Dihao Group project has nothing to do with me. Please, forgive me!"


    Mary was startled by his actions and quickly backed away, only to bump into a warm embrace.


    Turning around, she saw it was James holding her.


    James had seen Mary as soon as he entered. Today, Mary was dressed up beautifully, standing out like a star in the crowd.


    Seeing Matthew rush towards Mary, James quickly held her to prevent her from falling and glared at Matthew.


    Terrified, Matthew immediately backed away, afraid of angering James.


    Mary, puzzled, asked, "What''s wrong with him?"


    Holding her, James whispered, "Maybe he''s having some kind of fit. Ignore him."


    Though they were married, they had never been close. Feeling James''s warm embrace, Mary''s ears turned red.


    She quickly pulled away from James''s arms, stammering, "Um, Chairman Ye of Dihao Group should be here. I need to go check..."

 Chapter 20 – Please welcome Chairman Ye

    Matthew Zhang was fleeing in panic just as Robert Xiao walked in, followed by his sister Barbara Xiao and her fianc¨¦, Daniel Wang.


    Next to Daniel was a young man dressed in luxurious attire who bore a slight resemblance to him.


    Seeing Matthew, Robert quickly said, "Hey, Matthew! I heard something big happened to your family just now. Is it true?"


    Matthew, looking utterly despondent, pushed him away and muttered, "It''s over, it''s all over..."


    Robert asked with concern, "Matthew, what''s going on?"


    Matthew shook his head in terror, not daring to say a word. He had no doubt that if he said anything he shouldn''t, he might end up dead in the street by tomorrow.


    So, Matthew broke free from Robert''s grip and ran out in a daze.


    Watching his retreating figure, Robert sighed, "Looks like the Zhang Family is really done for. Damn, that was fast! They were fine yesterday, and today they''re bankrupt!"


    Then, Robert noticed James Ye and Mary Xiao, and a malicious thought crossed his mind. He quickly called out to Mary, "Mary, let me introduce you to this distinguished guest. This is Daniel''s cousin, Eric Wang, the eldest son of the Wang Family."


    "Eric , this is my cousin, Mary Xiao," Robert introduced with a sycophantic smile.


    From the moment he walked in, Eric Wang''s eyes had been fixed on Mary. Hearing the introduction, he immediately extended his hand and said, "Hello, Mary. I''ve long heard of the Xiao Family''s famous beauty, and today I see it''s true."


    A flash of displeasure crossed James Ye''s eyes. Having a beautiful wife was a double-edged sword; he was constantly swatting away suitors like flies.


    He quickly extended his hand, shaking Eric''s firmly, and said coldly, "Hello, I''m Mary''s husband."


    "You?" Eric looked James up and down with disdain, then withdrew his hand and said indifferently, "I didn''t realize Mary was already married. What a waste of a beautiful flower on a pile of dung..."


    Barbara quickly chimed in, "Eric, this loser married into our Xiao Family. He has no job and no skills!"


    She then gave Eric a meaningful look and said, "Eric, once I marry Daniel, we''ll all be family. We should definitely keep in touch."


    Eric understood her implication¡ªshe was encouraging him to pursue Mary. He smiled and said, "Mary is as beautiful as a heavenly immortal. I''d be more than happy to keep in touch."


    At that moment, James saw his mother-in-law, Elizabeth Ma, and father-in-law, Christopher Xiao, approaching.


    Elizabeth hurried over to Mary and said, "Mary, have you heard? The Zhang Family is bankrupt!"


    "What?" Mary asked in surprise. "When did this happen?"


    "Just now!" Elizabeth sighed. "I thought that after you divorced James, you could be with Matthew. But now it seems impossible..."


    James felt quite frustrated. Was his mother-in-law an idiot? Didn''t she realize that her current son-in-law was the real catch?


    Seeing Elizabeth, Eric quickly approached and introduced himself, "You must be Mary''s mother. Hello, Auntie. I''m Eric Wang, Daniel''s cousin. You are so beautiful; no wonder you have such a lovely daughter."


    Elizabeth''s eyes lit up upon hearing that Eric was the eldest son of the wealthy Wang Family. She warmly said, "Yes, I''m Mary''s mother. Are you friends with Mary?"


    Eric nodded and smiled, "Yes, we just met today."


    Elizabeth beamed with joy and said, "Everyone, find a place to sit. Don''t just stand around. Young Master Wang, our Mary is not only beautiful but also pure and virtuous. You young people should spend more time together..."


    "Mom!" Mary called out in displeasure, stopping her mother from saying more.


    Elizabeth was about to say something when Mary pulled her aside, reminding everyone to pay attention to the stage.


    Old Madame Xiao was already standing under the spotlight.


    She looked around excitedly before stepping up to the microphone with a smile. "First, on behalf of the Xiao Family, I would like to welcome all our friends and partners to our banquet."


    "Next, let''s welcome Vice Chairman Margaret Wang of Dihao Group."


    The spotlight shifted to the front row.


    Read the most updated version of this novel and other amazing translated novels from the original source at [ ]


    Margaret Wang, dressed in a black evening gown that accentuated her perfect curves, looked like a celestial being under the lights. Every man in the room couldn''t help but focus on her.


    Dihao Group''s Vice Chairman! A rare beauty! Each of these titles was enough to draw everyone''s attention.


    Margaret stood up and nodded slightly towards the crowd. Her gaze lingered on James Ye for a moment before moving on.


    Old Madame Xiao continued, "Today, I want to thank Dihao Group for entrusting us with such an important project. The Xiao Family will do everything in its power to live up to Dihao''s trust."


    "Secondly, we want to introduce a distinguished young member of our Xiao Family. Without him, we wouldn''t have been able to secure this partnership with Dihao. After careful consideration, we''ve decided to appoint him as the Director of Xiao Group, responsible for our collaboration with Dihao Group!"


    Elizabeth excitedly said, "Mary, it''s your turn to go on stage!"


    Although Mary was prepared, she couldn''t help but feel nervous.


    James gave her an encouraging look.


    Robert Xiao watched Mary with a sneer on his face.


    Old Madame Xiao''s gaze also fell on their table, smiling as she spoke.


    "Let''s welcome the new Director of Xiao Group, Robert Xiao!"


    Mary froze in place, unable to believe what she was hearing. She looked to the side and saw Robert walking up to the stage with a smug expression.


    James''s eyes turned cold.


    What a classic case of using someone and then discarding them! sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The Xiao Family had used Mary and then immediately cast her aside, without any regard for her feelings!


    Mary''s eyes reddened, tears welling up.


    She stood up and ran towards the door without looking back.


    For her, the joy she felt when she arrived was now replaced by utter despair.


    James watched her leave, his expression growing colder.


    Bullying my wife? Are you looking for trouble?


    At that moment, Robert stood on the stage, proudly saying, "Thank you for the company''s trust. I will do my best as Director and ensure the perfect completion of the project entrusted to us by Dihao Group!"


    Old Madame Xiao nodded in satisfaction and took over the microphone. "This banquet has one more important announcement. We are honored to have the new Chairman of Dihao Group, Mr. Ye, with us tonight! Please give a warm welcome to Chairman Ye!"


    Thunderous applause erupted from the audience!


    Everyone had come tonight to see the new Chairman of Dihao Group!


    Everyone was eager to catch a glimpse of him!


    People whispered among themselves, trying to guess who would stand up at this moment.


    Some even speculated, "I suspect the mysterious Chairman of Dihao Group is the same super tycoon who caused a stir at Emerald Pavilion online!"


    "I think so too! That super tycoon''s silhouette looked unfamiliar, definitely not someone from Jinling!"


    "Oh my god! If that''s true, then the Chairman of Dihao Group is now the most powerful tycoon in Jinling!"


    "I can''t wait to see his true face!"


    Amidst the intense applause and countless eager eyes, James Ye suddenly stood up with a cold expression...

 Chapter 21 – He is the chairman

    In the midst of everyone''s incredulous stares, James Ye slowly stood up.


    All eyes in the banquet hall instantly focused on him.


    "James, what are you doing? Sit down!" Elizabeth Ma shouted in a panic.


    Does he even realize what kind of occasion this is? With so many big shots present, none of them dared to stand up. And here James, a useless son-in-law, is trying to steal the spotlight!


    Eric Wang and Daniel Wang exchanged glances, both thinking to themselves, "Damn, could he really be the chairman of Dihao Group?"


    But then they both shook their heads.


    Impossible. If he were really the chairman of Dihao, how could he be scolded so harshly by Elizabeth Ma?


    "What are you doing, you useless fool! Sit down immediately!" Robert Xiao shouted from the stage, his face darkening.


    James gave him a cold glance, then walked straight to Margaret Wang, completely ignoring the shocked stares from everyone. He whispered a few words in her ear.


    Margaret nodded slightly as she listened.


    This scene made everyone''s hearts tighten instantly.


    Margaret Wang! The Vice Chairman of Dihao Group, and a renowned beauty in Jinling! How could James, a useless son-in-law, know her? And from the looks of it, they seemed to have a good relationship.


    After speaking, James ignored the crowd''s gaze and left the hall to chase after Mary Xiao.


    Margaret Wang stood up, walked to the stage, took the microphone, and said to the bewildered crowd, "Hello everyone, I''m Margaret Wang. Mr. James Ye met our chairman outside earlier, and the chairman asked him to deliver a message to me."


    Upon hearing that James was not the chairman of Dihao, the crowd breathed a sigh of relief.


    Eric Wang sneered and muttered, "He just happened to run into someone important and is now desperately trying to bootlick their assistant. What a loser."


    Daniel Wang shrugged and laughed, "That''s how small people are."


    At this moment, Margaret Wang glanced at Old Madame Xiao, her face turning cold. "The chairman asked me to inform everyone..."


    "From now on, Dihao Group is terminating its cooperation with the Xiao Family. All signed contracts are hereby nullified!"


    "Boom!"


    The crowd erupted in an uproar. No one expected Margaret Wang to say such a thing.


    This sudden turn of events left everyone in shock.


    Old Madame Xiao''s face turned pale instantly. She urgently asked, "Vice Chairman Wang, why is this happening? Did our Xiao Family do something wrong?"


    She had invited all the prominent figures in Jinling today, hoping to make a name for herself. If the cooperation fell through in front of everyone, the Xiao Family would be trampled underfoot.


    Margaret Wang replied, "This project was originally agreed upon because our chairman recognized Mary Xiao. But you took it upon yourselves to put someone else in charge. We cannot accept that!"


    After speaking, Margaret Wang put down the microphone and walked out without looking back.


    Old Madame Xiao''s face turned ashen, and she collapsed onto the stage.


    She never imagined that her little scheme would cost them this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!


    Had she known it would come to this, she would never have replaced Mary Xiao with Robert Xiao as the director.


    Robert Xiao was also bewildered. What was going on? It seemed like Margaret Wang was targeting him, but he had never offended her!


    Robert couldn''t help but ask Old Madame Xiao, "Grandma, the director appointment has already been announced. You won''t go back on your word, will you?"


    Old Madame Xiao struggled to stand up, slapped him across the face, and angrily scolded, "You fool, you''re still thinking about the director position at a time like this! Hurry and beg Mary for help!"


    ...


    After chasing her, James found that Mary Xiao hadn''t gone far. She was just squatting in a secluded corner of the hotel, crying in grievance.


    He walked over slowly, took off his suit jacket, and draped it over Mary. "Honey, don''t be sad. Being the director of the Xiao Family isn''t such a big deal. It''s not worth it."


    "You don''t understand. If I become the director, my parents can hold their heads high in the Xiao Family. How could Grandma go back on her word..." Mary sobbed.


    James continued to comfort her, "Maybe they''ll come begging you to be the director soon. If you keep crying, you won''t look pretty when you go back on stage."


    Mary choked up, "How could that be? Grandma has already made her decision. There''s no turning back. You go back inside, let me be alone for a while..."


    Just then, Old Madame Xiao and Robert Xiao ran out of the banquet hall.


    Old Madame Xiao, being elderly, was out of breath from running. Behind her, a large group of people followed to watch the drama unfold.


    Robert Xiao saw James and Mary and quickly ran over. He looked down at the tearful Mary and blurted out, "Mary, hurry and go after Vice Chairman Wang. Ask her not to terminate our cooperation!"


    Mary looked confused, "Terminate cooperation? Why?"


    Robert angrily said, "Don''t play innocent. You must have instructed Vice Chairman Wang to embarrass me in public. If you don''t fix this, I won''t forgive you!"


    Slap!


    Old Madame Xiao, standing nearby, slapped Robert again and scolded, "You fool, how can you talk to your sister like that! She is the director of our Xiao Group!"


    Robert panicked, "Grandma... didn''t you say I would be the director?" S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Old Madame Xiao angrily replied, "If you hadn''t tricked me, I wouldn''t have changed my mind. If you keep this up, get out of the Xiao Family!"


    Having been slapped twice, Robert was extremely angry but didn''t dare to show it. He could only swallow his pride for now.


    Old Madame Xiao then turned to Mary and said, "Mary, please, you are now the director of the Xiao Family. Hurry and explain to Vice Chairman Wang, or our Xiao Family is finished!"


    Mary looked at James in confusion.


    James shrugged and said, "I told you they''d come begging you to be the director. You didn''t believe me. Look, your face is all tear-streaked now..."


    Mary blushed, wiped her tears, and said, "I''ll try contacting Dihao."


    She then dialed Margaret Wang''s number.


    All eyes were on her.


    Moments later, the call connected, and Mary said, "Hello, Vice Chairman Wang. Grandma asked me to explain that I will be the director of the Xiao Family and will be responsible for the cooperation with Dihao. Could you give us another chance?"


    Margaret Wang chuckled, "If you are the director and can take charge, then there''s no problem. The cooperation can continue. But if it''s anyone else, it''s off the table."


    "Vice Chairman Wang... thank you so much..."


    Mary was puzzled. From start to finish, it seemed like Dihao Group was helping her specifically. It was too unusual.


    Margaret Wang laughed, "This is all our chairman''s decision. He will explain it to you personally if there''s a chance in the future."


    Mary was even more confused. Who was their chairman? She had never met him. Why was he helping her?


    This novel is available on bit.ly/3iBfjkV.


    "Could you please return to the banquet hall?" Mary nervously asked.


    Margaret Wang had left in anger, clearly upset with the Xiao Family. Asking her to return seemed a bit much.


    But to her surprise, Margaret Wang readily agreed.


    Soon, everyone saw Margaret Wang''s car return to the hotel entrance.


    This time, everyone looked at Mary with awe and respect.

 Chapter 22 – Mother-in-law was deceived

    The crowd returned to the banquet hall, and Old Madame Xiao pulled Mary Xiao onto the stage.


    With an affectionate demeanor, she began, "I apologize for the earlier confusion. It was my mistake. Actually, we owe a lot to Mary. She is the outstanding younger generation of our Xiao Family, and she played a significant role in our cooperation with the Dihao Group."


    Margaret Wang, standing beside her, gave her a disdainful glance and waved her hand to stop her from continuing. She interjected, "Let me correct you. This cooperation was entirely facilitated by Miss Mary Xiao alone and has nothing to do with anyone else."


    Her words were blunt, but everyone was used to it. Given Dihao Group''s status, even if Margaret Wang slapped Old Madame Xiao in public, she wouldn''t dare say anything.


    Old Madame Xiao quickly nodded, "Vice Chairman Wang is right. Everything is thanks to Mary. From now on, Mary will be the director of our Xiao Family, fully responsible for our cooperation with Dihao Group!"


    Only then did Margaret Wang smile slightly, shaking hands with Mary Xiao and saying, "I hope we can have a pleasant cooperation in the future."


    Mary Xiao was still a bit dazed and could only nod.


    The audience erupted in applause, their gazes towards Mary Xiao filled with admiration.


    Who exactly is this woman? How did she gain such favor from Dihao Group?


    Mary Xiao herself was also confused. She turned to look at James Ye. The current scene was exactly as James had predicted. Old Madame Xiao had returned the director position that should have belonged to her.


    Even after the banquet ended and they returned home, Mary Xiao was still in a state of bewilderment.


    Recalling what James had said before, she couldn''t help but feel a bit suspicious. Over the past few days, James seemed to have changed somehow.


    It was as if there were many things about him that she didn''t understand, shrouded in layers of mystery.


    That night, Mary Xiao''s name spread far and wide in Jinling!


    Everyone knew that the Xiao Family had an outstanding younger generation who could even gain the strong support of Dihao Group!


    With her around, the revival of the Xiao Family seemed just around the corner.


    ...


    Early the next morning, Mary Xiao woke up early and headed to the company in high spirits.


    Today was her first day as director, and she hoped to give it her all and do a good job.


    James Ye, on the other hand, started his day as usual, doing household chores.


    After finishing the chores and preparing to go to the market to buy groceries for lunch, he suddenly received a call from his mother-in-law, Elizabeth Ma.


    As soon as he answered, her anxious voice came through, "James, you must come to Ping''an Road within ten minutes, or I won''t let you off when I get home!"


    With that, she hung up the phone.


    James was puzzled. His mother-in-law had been missing since early morning, and now she suddenly called, sounding like something urgent had happened.


    Although James was quite annoyed with his mother-in-law, he didn''t dare to delay. He quickly tidied up and took a taxi to Ping''an Road.


    As soon as he got out of the car, he saw a group of elderly men and women angrily gathered in front of a tightly closed insurance company.


    His mother-in-law was at the front of the crowd, holding a banner and shouting angrily, "Trash Bruce, scam platform, we want justice, return our hard-earned money!"


    James hurriedly walked up and asked, "Mom, why did you call me here?"


    As he spoke, the protest slogans echoed in his ears, the elderly men and women shouting at the top of their lungs, making his eardrums ache.


    Elizabeth Ma pulled James over to take her place and instructed, "Here, you shout the slogans for me. I''ve been shouting all morning, and my throat is hoarse."


    James didn''t understand but had no choice but to join the elderly in protesting. While shouting the slogans, he occasionally asked an elderly man beside him what was going on and finally understood the situation.


    It turned out that this Bruce Insurance Company operated high-return insurance products.


    Attracted by the high returns, these elderly people had bought a lot of insurance products from the company and became their customers.


    Normally, it was time for dividends now, but when these elderly people came to withdraw their money, they found the company doors tightly closed, with only a few employees at the entrance giving poor excuses.


    The elderly people then realized they had been scammed.


    No wonder his mother-in-law urgently called him to join the protest.


    Thinking of this, James felt a headache and couldn''t help but ask his mother-in-law, "Mom, how much insurance did you buy?"


    Elizabeth Ma said anxiously, "They said buying insurance would give dividends, a huge profit. I got carried away and bought all their products with our savings..."


    James was shocked, "What? You spent all our savings on insurance?"


    Elizabeth Ma, hearing this, became furious and scolded, "Do you have to be so loud? Are you trying to embarrass me even more?"


    She continued to berate James, "If you had any capability, would I have needed to buy their insurance products? If I can''t rely on insurance for retirement, should I rely on you, a useless son-in-law?"


    This guy couldn''t even support his family, and now he dared to make things worse?


    She then told James, "Keep shouting the slogans for me, don''t stop for a moment!"


    James had no choice but to nod, "Okay, Mom."


    At this moment, a few elderly women walked over, sizing up James, and asked Elizabeth Ma, "Sister Lan, is this your son-in-law?"


    They looked at James''s attire and mocked, "He looks so shabby, not even as good as my son-in-law."


    "Yeah, his clothes are so poor! Even worse than mine!"


    Their mocking words were particularly harsh.


    James didn''t mind. They were just a bunch of elderly women who had lost their life savings. There was no need to argue with them.


    Elizabeth Ma was also furious, the more she looked at James, the more displeased she became. She blurted out, "Just wait, I''ll have my daughter divorce him in a few days and find a better son-in-law!"


    James sneered inwardly. A better son-in-law? Even if you gathered all the rich second-generation heirs in Jinling, they wouldn''t compare to a single finger of mine.


    Elizabeth Ma was anxious, knowing that James was useless and could only help shout slogans.


    To get her investment back, she needed someone truly capable to help. S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Unfortunately, Matthew Zhang, who had been pursuing her daughter, had gone bankrupt. Otherwise, she could have asked him for help!


    Wait!


    Elizabeth Ma suddenly remembered Eric Wang, the brother of Daniel Wang, whom she met at the family banquet yesterday.


    Judging by his attentiveness towards her daughter, he probably had some interest in her.


    Although the Wang Family wasn''t as prominent as the Zhang Family used to be, they were still a notable family. If she called him, he might have a solution.


    Fortunately, Eric Wang had given her his business card yesterday. She immediately took out her phone and dialed his number.

 Chapter 23 – Ingratiate himself

    The phone was quickly connected.


    Elizabeth Ma immediately said, "Hello, is this Eric? Yes, I''m Mary Xiao''s mother..."


    Ever since Eric Wang saw Mary Xiao at the banquet, he was instantly captivated and couldn''t get her out of his mind.


    He was worried about not having a chance to get close to Mary, and coincidentally, her mother called him.


    He guessed that Elizabeth Ma was in some sort of trouble and certainly wouldn''t miss this chance to ingratiate himself.


    So, he politely asked, "Auntie Ma, are you in some kind of trouble?"


    "Well, there''s something I need your help with," Elizabeth said urgently. "Eric, I and a few of my old friends invested in some financial products from a company called Bruce. We''ve put all our savings into it, but now the company won''t let us withdraw the money. Can you help us get it back?"


    Eric was overjoyed upon hearing this, feeling it was his time to shine. He confidently said, "Auntie, don''t worry. I''ll come over right now and help you solve this problem!"


    Elizabeth was thrilled and quickly said, "Thank you so much!"


    After hanging up, she looked at James Ye with disdain and said angrily, "Some people are completely useless, can''t rely on them for anything. All they can do is shout slogans. What good is that?"


    James Ye sneered inwardly. This mother-in-law was really both snobbish and blind.


    Calling Eric Wang for help?


    This company had scammed at least tens of millions, if not more. Anyone daring to scam that much money must have a powerful background, possibly even some underworld figures behind them. How could Eric Wang possibly make them return the money?


    The Wang Family''s power was already mediocre, and after Dihao Group terminated their cooperation, their strength diminished even further. With their background, it was basically impossible to intervene in such a large financial scam.


    In fact, this small matter could be resolved with just a phone call to Charles Chen at Buckingham Palace.


    After all, he was the Ye Family''s representative in Jinling. Any entrepreneur or big shot in Jinling, whether in the legitimate or underground world, had to show him respect.


    But this mother-in-law was simply detestable. Since she believed in Eric Wang, let him handle it! sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Seeing Elizabeth Ma''s cheerful expression after making a phone call, some people immediately gathered around and asked if she had found some powerful figure to help.


    With a smug look, Elizabeth said to the surrounding elderly folks, "Don''t worry, I''ve asked the eldest young master of the Wang Family to help. He''s very capable, so getting the money back should be easy!"


    Someone exclaimed, "The eldest young master of the Wang Family? Wow, Elizabeth, you''re amazing to find such a powerful person!"


    "Yeah, with Young Master Wang''s connections, solving this should be a piece of cake!"


    "Elizabeth, since you know such a talented young man, why not marry your daughter to him instead of this useless guy?"


    Elizabeth glanced disdainfully at James Ye and snorted, "This useless guy will be kicked out of the Xiao Family sooner or later!"


    James Ye said nothing, planning to see how Eric Wang would hit a wall when he arrived.


    Soon, a black Porsche slowly stopped in front of the crowd.


    A young man in a suit, looking very impressive, stepped out of the car.


    Eric Wang had arrived.


    The surrounding elderly folks marveled, "Wow, now that''s what you call a talented young man! Whoever marries such a good son-in-law will be so lucky!"


    "Yeah! If my daughter could marry him, I could die happy!"


    "Dream on! Even if you die, he wouldn''t look at your daughter!"


    At this moment, Elizabeth Ma saw Eric Wang and immediately ran up to him, saying eagerly, "Oh Eric, you''re finally here. I was so worried!"


    Eric Wang smiled and said, "Auntie, sorry to keep you waiting!"


    Elizabeth hurriedly said, "Oh Eric, you''re too polite. I only waited for ten minutes. You came so quickly!"


    Eric Wang laughed, "When I heard you were in trouble, I drove over immediately, running several red lights on the way."


    Elizabeth, looking proud but pretending to be concerned, asked, "Running so many red lights, won''t that be a problem?"


    "No," Eric Wang said nonchalantly. "I know people in the traffic department. One phone call and any violation can be cleared."


    Then he added, "Let''s talk about your issue. How much money were you scammed out of?"


    Elizabeth sighed, "I invested over a million, and they said this month''s dividend would be two hundred thousand, but now I can''t even withdraw the principal."


    Eric Wang nodded confidently, "Don''t worry, leave it to me. I''ll make sure to get your money back."


    As he spoke, he suddenly noticed James Ye standing behind Elizabeth, his expression changing slightly.


    He didn''t expect that eyesore, James Ye, to be here.


    Ever since seeing Mary Xiao, Eric Wang had been eager to get close to her. Hearing from his brother Daniel Wang that Mary was likely still a virgin, his desire grew even stronger.


    So, seeing Mary''s useless husband, he naturally looked down on him.


    To read the uncut version, go to ].


    He deliberately said with a smile, "Oh, Brother James is here too. Do you have a way to help Auntie Ma get her investment back? Why don''t you give it a try first? So you won''t say I stole your thunder."


    Elizabeth quickly said, "What''s he going to try? What can he help with? All he can do is shout slogans! Eric, don''t mind him."


    Eric Wang nodded, mocking, "Since Brother James doesn''t have the ability, I''ll give it a try!"


    James Ye smiled slightly and said five words, "Good luck, Young Master Wang."


    Eric Wang laughed disdainfully. At this moment, the elderly folks around Elizabeth started to gather, bootlicking her, "Elizabeth, we''re all friends. Can you ask this handsome young man to help us too? We''ve all been scammed out of our hard-earned money!"


    Elizabeth, feeling superior, said, "Oh, I can''t decide that. Eric is helping me as a favor. He doesn''t know you all."


    Others began to plead with Eric Wang, "Young Master Wang, please be kind and help us too!"


    Eric Wang looked down on the others, but seeing that Elizabeth loved to take advantage of small gains, he smiled and said, "Since you''re all Auntie Ma''s friends, I can help you too."


    As everyone rejoiced, Eric Wang arrogantly said, "But I''m only helping because of Auntie Ma. So, for the money I help you get back, you have to give Auntie Ma 10% as a fee. Can you accept that?"


    Everyone quickly said, "No problem! Getting back 90% is much better than getting nothing!"


    Hearing this, Elizabeth was overjoyed!


    The money her friends had been scammed out of totaled over ten million. If Eric Wang could really help get it back, wouldn''t she earn over a million?

 Chapter 24 – Stupid thing that doesnt know if its alive or dead!

    Just as Elizabeth Ma was getting excited, Eric Wang shouted, "Uncles and aunties, don''t worry. I''ll go talk to them right now. Wait here for my good news."


    Elizabeth felt invincible with Eric backing her up, so she immediately blurted out, "Eric, I''ll go with you!"


    James Ye quickly said to Elizabeth, "Mom, you''d better not get involved. If Eric can''t solve this, you might get into trouble!"


    "Bah!" Elizabeth snapped angrily, "How dare you, you useless piece of trash, doubt Eric''s abilities?"


    The other elderly folks were all counting on Eric to help them get their hard-earned money back. Now that James was contradicting everyone, it naturally sparked their displeasure.


    Facing the barrage of criticism, James calmly said, "Mom, you can wait here. It''s best not to get involved in this mess."


    Elizabeth wouldn''t listen at all and immediately cursed, "Shut your filthy mouth! Do you think you have a say here?"


    Eric''s face was full of arrogance as he mocked, "Not much skill, but plenty of jealousy. Do you think I''m like you, just a useless loudmouth?"


    Seeing that his mother-in-law wouldn''t listen, James decided not to say more and simply said, "Alright, I''ll wait for your good news, Mr. Wang."


    James couldn''t stand his mother-in-law, Elizabeth. She was too superficial and often blinded by appearances. In short, she was a shallow woman with long hair and short insight.


    Today''s matter seemed like just a scam, but a little investigation would reveal its deep waters. His mother-in-law, lacking any discernment, insisted on wading into the mess herself. There was nothing he could do; letting her learn a lesson might be a good thing.


    Elizabeth had no idea James was being considerate. She glared at him fiercely and then turned to Eric with an apologetic smile, "Eric, don''t mind what this piece of trash says. Auntie absolutely believes in you..."


    Eric smiled smugly and said, "It''s okay, Auntie. I won''t stoop to the level of a coward." S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With that, he said confidently, "Auntie, let''s go!"


    "Alright!"


    Eric led Elizabeth through the crowd and walked to the entrance of Bruce Insurance Company.


    As soon as they reached the entrance, Eric loudly said to the employees blocking the door, "Tell your boss to return these uncles'' and aunties'' money immediately, or I''ll have my legal team and the police involved. Then, I''ll have you and your boss arrested!"


    Elizabeth chimed in, "Did you hear that, you dogs? We have someone backing us now! If your scam company doesn''t return the money, be careful that Mr. Wang doesn''t send you all to jail!"


    The young employee leading the group was a bit nervous and hurriedly said, "I''m just a security guard; I''m not in charge of specific business matters!"


    Eric said coldly, "Then call your boss and tell him I''m Eric Wang from the Wang Family in Jinling! Have him come here personally to handle this, or face the consequences!"


    Eric''s face was full of arrogance as he spoke.


    Although the Wang Family wasn''t the top in Jinling, they were at least mid-tier.


    Would a mere scam company boss dare not give him face after hearing his name?


    The young employee, unsure of Eric''s background, was a bit scared and immediately called his boss.


    At this moment, in the chairman''s office of Bruce Insurance Company, the boss, Zhou Bruce, was fawning over a middle-aged man in his forties.


    With a flattering smile, Zhou Bruce took out a bank card from his drawer and respectfully handed it over, saying, "Lord Hong, this card contains thirty million, and the password is your birthday. This is your share of the profits. Please have a look."


    The middle-aged man, dressed in a Tang suit, had a somewhat rugged appearance but exuded an intimidating aura.


    If anyone else were present, they would immediately recognize this man.


    He was Lord Hong!


    Everyone in Jinling knew that Lord Hong was the underground king here, and no one dared to mess with him!


    Lord Hong looked at Zhou Bruce and smiled approvingly, "Little Zhou, I didn''t expect you to be so savvy. Not bad, not bad!"


    Zhou Bruce hurriedly said, "Lord Hong, what should we do about the old folks causing trouble downstairs?"


    A quick look at " will leave you more fulfilled.


    Lord Hong said indifferently, "A bunch of old geezers, don''t worry about them. If they don''t leave quietly later, I''ll have my men come and teach them a lesson!"


    Zhou Bruce breathed a sigh of relief and quickly said, "Thank you, Lord Hong!"


    Lord Hong smiled and said, "In the future, just go ahead with such business. As long as it makes money, I''ll cover for you if anything happens."


    Zhou Bruce was overjoyed and said humbly, "Thank you, Lord Hong! With your support, I''ll definitely keep up the good work, and we''ll make a fortune together!"


    Zhou Bruce didn''t have a deep background in Jinling, but he had a knack for shady dealings.


    He ran financial scams, knowing he couldn''t handle such large amounts alone, so he sought Lord Hong''s help, offering a portion of the illegal gains in exchange for Lord Hong''s protection.


    With Lord Hong''s backing, he had no worries and his scam business thrived.


    Just as Zhou Bruce was thrilled about securing Lord Hong''s support, his subordinate called, "Boss, there''s trouble! Someone claiming to be Eric Wang from the Wang Family is demanding we return the money immediately, or he''ll send you to jail!"


    "Damn, is that so?"


    Zhou Bruce frowned and quickly said to Lord Hong, "Lord Hong, there''s someone downstairs claiming to be from the Wang Family in Jinling. He''s leading those old folks and causing trouble, saying he can cover the sky with one hand in Jinling and wants us to return all the scammed money, or he''ll send us to jail..."


    Zhou Bruce exaggerated the situation to provoke Lord Hong.


    Then he bent down and pleaded, "Lord Hong, the Wang Family has some influence in Jinling. If they target me, I can''t handle it. Please, Lord Hong, help me through this crisis!"


    "The Wang Family in Jinling?"


    Lord Hong snorted coldly, "The Wang Family is nothing to me! Even their head has to bow to me! Now their junior dares to mess with me? He''s tired of living!"


    With that, Lord Hong pocketed the bank card Zhou Bruce had given him and said coldly, "Let''s go. I want to see which fool thinks he can make me, Lord Hong, spit out the money I''ve taken!"

 Chapter 25 – Looking for death!

    Eric Wang stood arrogantly at the entrance of Bruce Insurance Company.


    He knew that today was a golden opportunity to showcase his prowess in front of Mary Xiao''s mother, and he had to seize it.


    Once he won over her mother, how could he not win over Mary?


    Just thinking about it made him excited¡ªsoon, he could have the renowned beauty of Jinling, Mary Xiao, all to himself!


    So, he shouted loudly, "Everyone, rest assured, the boss of this scam company will be here soon to refund your money!"


    The crowd erupted in cheers and applause, everyone visibly excited.


    Only James Ye stood there with a cold smile, watching Eric Wang. This guy was too full of himself; he wouldn''t even know how he died later.


    Just as Eric was basking in the crowd''s admiration, the door of Bruce Insurance Company suddenly opened from the inside.


    Out walked Zhou Bruce, the boss, accompanied by a middle-aged man in a Tang suit.


    Although the middle-aged man looked a bit old, his presence was imposing¡ªit was none other than Lord Hong!


    Behind Lord Hong were several burly bodyguards, all of whom were his personal protectors, each one exceptionally skilled.


    Lord Hong''s status was so high that many in Jinling had heard of him but had never seen him. So, including Eric Wang, no one recognized him.


    The crowd only recognized Zhou Bruce, the boss of Bruce Insurance.


    The atmosphere in the crowd instantly exploded!


    "Oh my, Eric really got Mr. Zhou to come! He''s amazing!"


    "Yes, thanks to Elizabeth Ma, we might get our money back!"


    "Elizabeth, this young man is definitely a great catch for a son-in-law!"


    Elizabeth Ma felt an indescribable comfort listening to the flattery from her old friends.


    Eric Wang had really helped her shine in front of her old friends today.


    Thinking of this, she smiled even more broadly, looking at Eric with immense satisfaction.


    At this moment, Eric walked forward proudly, exuding an air of superiority.


    He didn''t recognize Zhou Bruce or Lord Hong, but seeing Zhou Bruce''s respectful demeanor towards Lord Hong, he mistook Lord Hong for the boss.


    So, he looked at Lord Hong and said arrogantly, "Are you the boss of Bruce Insurance Company?"


    Lord Hong replied with a faint smile, "I''m not the boss; I just work for him. But if you have something to say, you can tell me."


    Eric suddenly understood and then sneered, "So you''re just a lackey. Someone like you isn''t worthy of talking to me. Get lost and bring your boss here!"


    James Ye shook his head, looking at Eric like he was an idiot.


    The man in the Tang suit had an imposing presence and was followed by bodyguards¡ªclearly not someone to be trifled with. Yet Eric was arrogantly mocking him, obviously courting death.


    Elizabeth Ma also sneered and chimed in, "Eric, don''t waste your breath on this lackey. The one next to him is the boss of Bruce Insurance!"


    Zhou Bruce was stunned!


    Eric Wang and this old woman had some nerve!


    They dared to insult Lord Hong as a lackey and told him to get lost. They really didn''t know what death meant!


    In all of Jinling, who would dare to insult Lord Hong so brazenly?


    Even if someone did, they would end up feeding the fish in the river after Lord Hong''s wrath!


    Just as Eric finished speaking, one of Lord Hong''s burly bodyguards stepped forward, grabbed Eric''s hair, and slapped him several times!


    "Fuck you! How dare you insult Lord Hong? Are you tired of living?"


    Then he grabbed Elizabeth Ma and gave her a loud slap, cursing, "You filthy woman, dare to insult Lord Hong? Do you believe I won''t tear your mouth apart?"


    Boom!


    Eric Wang and Elizabeth Ma were struck as if by lightning!


    What?


    The man in the Tang suit in front of them was actually the famous Lord Hong of Jinling?!


    And they had just insulted him without knowing...


    Realizing this, their faces turned deathly pale, and cold sweat poured down their bodies as they were scared out of their wits.


    Eric reacted the fastest. He immediately knelt in front of Lord Hong, kowtowing and crying, "Lord Hong, I was wrong. I apologize! I didn''t recognize you and shouldn''t have insulted you! This matter with the old folks demanding money has nothing to do with me. Please, spare my life!"


    He knelt on the ground, slapping his own face and kowtowing in apology, breaking down in tears.


    He never expected that the backer of this scam company would be the renowned Lord Hong of Jinling!


    Such a big shot¡ªhis family couldn''t afford to offend him, let alone himself!


    At this moment, he regretted it so much he wanted to die!


    He only wanted to take this opportunity to impress Mary Xiao''s mother so he could get close to Mary.


    Unexpectedly, before achieving his goal, he had gravely offended Lord Hong!


    If his father found out, wouldn''t he beat him to death? S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The scene stunned the surrounding elderly folks.


    They had hoped Eric Wang could help them get their money back, but who would have thought that the next moment, he would kneel on the ground, kowtowing and apologizing to the man in the Tang suit...


    And Elizabeth Ma, who had been so proud just now, was now slapped several times, looking as miserable as a dead dog.


    Lord Hong snorted coldly and said to his men, "Since this guy has such a foul mouth, you all take turns slapping him ten thousand times. Stop only when you''ve reached ten thousand."


    Eric was scared out of his wits. Ten thousand slaps¡ªwouldn''t that kill him?


    At this moment, one of Lord Hong''s men pointed at the disheveled Elizabeth Ma and asked, "Lord Hong, what about this old woman?"


    Lord Hong looked at Elizabeth with disgust and said indifferently, "Slap her ten thousand times as well!"


    Elizabeth Ma fell to her knees with a thud, trembling violently. She was almost scared to death. If she had offended Lord Hong, could she still live?


    Several men stepped forward, some grabbing Eric Wang, others grabbing Elizabeth Ma, ready to start slapping them.


    James Ye had been watching coldly from the crowd.


    When he saw his mother-in-law getting hit, he didn''t want to intervene. His mother-in-law had always been so annoying; she deserved some punishment.


    But if Lord Hong''s men really slapped her ten thousand times, she would either be dead or crippled. How would he explain that to his wife?


    If she were in real danger, his wife would surely be very distressed!


    He felt he had no choice but to intervene.


    Just as a strong man raised his arm, ready to slap Elizabeth Ma''s old face, James Ye quickly stepped forward and grabbed his wrist!

 Chapter 26 – Young Master Ye!

    Elizabeth Ma screamed in terror, her eyes shut tight, bracing for the slap that never came.


    She opened her eyes and was stunned!


    Her useless son-in-law, James Ye, had stepped in to block the slap!


    This... sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Her mind went blank. How did this worthless James suddenly get so bold?


    Lord Hong was equally surprised that someone dared to stand up for this wretched woman. He coldly asked, "Who are you? Do you want to die too?"


    James smiled faintly, "Lord Hong, right? Do me a favor. You can beat that dead dog over there all you want, but not my mother-in-law!"


    Lord Hong''s face darkened. "This old woman is your mother-in-law? And who the hell are you to ask for my favor?"


    As he spoke, anger surged within him. In Jinling, he was always revered by many, but today he faced repeated disrespect.


    First, Eric Wang had yelled at him, then this disgusting old woman had chirped incessantly.


    Now, a young man dared to point fingers at him. Did they think Lord Hong was someone any random person could disrespect?


    Furious, he shouted to his men, "Beat this ignorant fool to death!"


    James smiled calmly and said, "Hold on, let me make a call. The person on the other end will explain."


    He took out his phone and called Charles Chen, the manager of Buckingham Palace.


    As soon as the call connected, Charles respectfully asked, "Young Master, what can I do for you?"


    James asked nonchalantly, "Do you know a Lord Hong in Jinling?"


    Charles laughed, "Young Master, I know this Hong Wu. People say he''s the underground king of Jinling, but he''s just a small fry!"


    Charles continued, "This guy knows I''m with the Ye Family and has been trying to bootlick me for ages, begging me to have a meal with him. I''ve always ignored him. Why, do you know him?"


    James replied casually, "Oh, this idiot wants to kill me now."


    Charles exploded, "Fuck! Is Hong Wu tired of living? How dare he mess with you! Where are you now? I''ll come over with my men and cripple him!"


    James said, "Talk to him yourself." He handed the phone to Lord Hong, "Here, take it."


    Read this novel and other amazing translated novels from the original source at the "[pawread.c????m]"


    Lord Hong was puzzled.


    What''s going on? This guy doesn''t seem to be bluffing.


    Could he really have some powerful background?


    He didn''t look like it. His clothes were ordinary, probably not worth more than 500 yuan in total, and his phone was a cheap model. What kind of connections could he have?


    Despite his skepticism, Lord Hong instinctively took the phone and tentatively asked, "Hello, I''m Lord Hong. Who are you? Are you backing this kid?"


    Charles Chen''s voice thundered through the phone, "Hong Wu! Are you tired of living? How dare you provoke our Young Master? Believe it or not, I can make sure your entire family of twenty-five is wiped out tonight!"


    Lord Hong recognized the voice. Wasn''t this the Charles Chen he had been trying to bootlick?


    He said he had offended their Young Master?


    Could it be this young man in front of him?


    And he mentioned his entire family of twenty-five. Did he already know everything about him?


    Charles Chen was the Ye Family''s representative in Jinling! The Ye Family''s power was immense. Killing him would be as easy as squashing an ant!


    Terrified, Lord Hong immediately begged for mercy, "Mr. Chen, please don''t be angry. This is a misunderstanding. I..."


    "Shut up!" Charles Chen roared, "Our Young Master''s identity is top secret. If you leak it, I''ll kill your entire family!"


    Lord Hong trembled violently, more than someone with Parkinson''s, and stammered, "Mr. Chen, I deserve to die! I''ll handle this properly..."


    Just one Charles Chen was enough to make him grovel, and the Ye Family in Yanjing was an unattainable existence he could only look up to for life...


    But now, he had foolishly offended the Ye Family''s Young Master?!


    Thinking of this, Lord Hong''s gaze fixed on James. His legs went weak, and he knelt before James, trembling, "Mr. Ye, I''m sorry. I didn''t know she was your mother-in-law. It was my mistake. Please forgive me!"


    Everyone present was stunned, watching Lord Hong kneel and apologize to James, this so-called useless man.


    Even Eric Wang, who was a dead dog in front of Lord Hong, was dumbfounded. Who was this young man who could make Lord Hong kneel?


    Lord Hong''s men were also terrified!


    Lord Hong was the underground king of Jinling! What kind of young man could make him kneel?


    James didn''t want to kill Lord Hong. After all, his men had beaten his mother-in-law, not him.


    Honestly, James found it quite satisfying to see his mother-in-law get slapped!


    So he said to Lord Hong, "I can forgive you this time, but you must return the money you swindled from my mother-in-law, with interest!"


    Lord Hong, feeling as if he had been granted amnesty, was overjoyed. He hadn''t expected Young Master Ye to forgive him. He quickly kowtowed and said, "Don''t worry, I''ll handle it right away!"


    He immediately ordered Zhou Bruce, "Hurry up and take care of it! If you dawdle, I''ll break your legs!"


    Elizabeth Ma was in shock. Was this still her useless son-in-law? Even the infamous Lord Hong had to kneel and kowtow to him?


    In an instant, James''s image in her eyes grew tall and mysterious.


    Eric Wang, who had been slapped multiple times, was also dumbfounded. Wasn''t James known as a useless man? How could even Lord Hong be terrified of him?


    At this moment, Zhou Bruce, pale-faced, brought a black suitcase to Elizabeth Ma and said in a trembling voice, "Auntie, here is your principal of 1.3 million yuan, plus the promised 200,000 yuan dividend, making a total of 1.5 million yuan. Here is 2 million yuan. The extra 500,000 yuan is our apology. Please accept it..."


    Elizabeth Ma was completely stunned!


    When did her useless son-in-law become so capable?


    Her principal was returned, the promised 200,000 yuan dividend was returned, and they even gave an extra 500,000 yuan as an apology!

 Chapter 27 – Wake up, stop dreaming!

    1.3 million turned into 2 million in an instant, making Elizabeth Ma overjoyed and somewhat incredulous.


    Immediately, she asked Zhou Bruce with a face full of surprise, "Is this 2 million really for me?"


    Zhou Bruce quickly nodded and said, "Of course, it''s all yours!"


    "Oh my, that''s wonderful!" Elizabeth Ma was instantly ecstatic.


    Seeing Elizabeth Ma get 2 million, an extra 700,000 on top of the principal, the other elderly people were thrilled. They thought that since her money was returned, theirs should also be returned with interest, right?


    So, a few people took the lead and asked, "Manager Zhou, what about our money?"


    Manager Zhou quickly looked at Lord Hong.


    Although Lord Hong was reluctant to give back the money he had swallowed, he had angered the young master of the Ye Family this time, and his life could be at stake. So, he couldn''t afford to be stingy and blurted out, "Return it! Return it all! For Mr. Ye''s sake, everyone''s money will be returned with interest!"


    The crowd erupted in cheers.


    At this moment, James Ye suddenly said coldly, "Lord Hong, these people have nothing to do with me. What do you mean by saying it''s for my sake? Are you trying to morally blackmail me?"


    Lord Hong was startled and blurted out, "Mr. Ye, what do you mean by that? I''m confused, I don''t understand..." sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    James Ye said, "Their money has nothing to do with me. If you want to return it, return it. If you don''t want to, don''t. But if you dare to say you''re returning it for my sake, don''t blame me for turning against you right now!"


    These old folks had been mocking him along with Elizabeth Ma earlier. Why should he help them get their money back now?


    On the contrary, not only would he not help them, but he would also make Lord Hong understand that returning their money would offend him!


    Lord Hong immediately understood and quickly said, "Mr. Ye, don''t worry, I get it!"


    Then he told Zhou Bruce, "Only return the money to Mr. Ye''s mother-in-law, no one else!"


    "What?!" The old folks who had been ecstatic just now went crazy. Some even started crying loudly, wailing in despair.


    Some begged James Ye loudly for mercy, but he turned a deaf ear.


    These disrespectful old folks had insulted him earlier, and now they wanted his help?


    To hell with them!


    Seeing the old folks in an uproar, Lord Hong shouted, "Everyone shut the hell up! If anyone dares to say another word and disturb Mr. Ye, I''ll kill them!"


    The old folks immediately fell silent...


    Lord Hong then looked at the stunned Eric Wang and asked, "Mr. Ye, is this Young Master Wang your friend?"


    James Ye glanced at Eric Wang, who quickly pleaded, "James, James! James, save me! Tell Lord Hong we''re good friends, please!"


    James Ye snorted coldly and said to Lord Hong, "I don''t know this person. Continue with your promise; beat him up and then let him go."


    Lord Hong immediately understood and ordered his men, "Damn it, keep beating him. This bastard makes me angry just looking at him!"


    Eric Wang screamed in terror, "James! I didn''t recognize you before! I''m begging you, save me, please..."


    James Ye looked at him coldly and said, "We have no relationship, no grievances, yet you repeatedly insulted me. Now you want me to save you? Wake up, stop dreaming!"


    Eric Wang broke down and cried, "James, I really know I was wrong, please save me..."


    Seeing James Ye''s displeased expression, Lord Hong immediately shouted at his men, "Damn it, why aren''t you moving? Do you want to die?"


    His men, startled, hurriedly grabbed Eric Wang by the neck and hair and started beating him fiercely.


    Soon, Eric Wang''s mouth was full of blood, and several teeth were broken, but they didn''t stop, each slap was extremely forceful!


    Lord Hong, smiling, asked James Ye, "Mr. Ye, are you satisfied with this?"


    James Ye nodded, "Alright, that''s enough. I have to go."


    Lord Hong quickly and respectfully handed his business card to James Ye, flattering him, "Mr. Ye, this is my contact information. If you need anything in the future, just let me know, and I''ll be there."


    James Ye acknowledged with a hum and casually put the card in his pocket.


    Then he said to his mother-in-law, Elizabeth Ma, "Mom, it''s getting late, let''s go home."


    Although Elizabeth Ma had been slapped a few times, she had ultimately made 700,000, so she was grinning from ear to ear, looking at James Ye with pride, thinking her son-in-law had really made her proud!


    James Ye carried the money and prepared to leave with Elizabeth Ma. The old folks quickly gathered around him, saying eagerly, "Oh, James, we misjudged you earlier. We didn''t know you were so capable, truly outstanding!"


    "Yes, James, you''re so talented and promising. My son-in-law is nothing compared to you."


    "Can you help us talk to Mr. Zhou and get our money back? It''s our hard-earned money!"


    James Ye frowned and said coldly, "Why should I help you? Aren''t you all so high and mighty? If you can''t get your money back, ask your own sons-in-law for help!"


    With that, he walked away.


    Hearing this, everyone felt deep regret.


    They blamed themselves for belittling James Ye earlier. Now, their chance to get their money back was gone...


    Thinking of this, some slapped themselves in anger, some sat on the ground in despair, crying out in agony. This was their life savings! Without it, they were doomed!


    Discover the complete story on pawread dot com.


    But they had no other way. They could only blame themselves for having sharp tongues and not having a good son-in-law like James Ye.


    On the way home, Elizabeth Ma, full of flattery and smiles, asked James Ye, "James, how do you know Lord Hong? Why is he so polite to you?"


    James Ye laughed it off and said, "How could I know someone like him? I just called a classmate who has the power to make Bruce return the money."


    Hearing this, Elizabeth Ma felt a wave of disappointment.


    She had thought James Ye had some great ability she didn''t know about, but it turned out he still had to ask for help.


    So, her enthusiasm was instantly dampened.


    But at least they got the money back and made an extra 700,000, which made her view James Ye a bit more favorably.


    She said to James Ye, "James, you must keep today''s matter a secret for me. Don''t tell anyone. Even though I''m old, I still have my pride, right?"


    James Ye smiled helplessly and agreed, "I understand, Mom."

 Chapter 28 – Set up the feast!

    After dealing with his mother-in-law''s troubles, she took the cash and happily went to the bank to deposit it.


    James Ye then went straight home.


    As soon as he entered the house, he saw his wife Mary Xiao''s shoes at the entrance, indicating she was already home, so he headed directly to the bedroom.


    Upon entering the bedroom, he saw Mary just hanging up the phone, her face full of joy and excitement.


    Curious, he asked, "Honey, who were you talking to just now?"


    Mary excitedly replied, "It was my bestie, Linda Dong! Do you remember her?"


    "Of course," James nodded, "She used to go to university in Jinling with you and you were quite close. Isn''t she the daughter of a prominent family in Yanjing?"


    "Yes," Mary said, "The Dong family is quite influential in Yanjing."


    James smiled and asked, "So, is she coming to Jinling to visit you?"


    Mary said, "Not just to visit me, she''s coming to work in Jinling!"


    James asked in confusion, "Why would a daughter of a prominent family in Yanjing come all the way to Jinling for a job instead of managing her own family''s business?"


    Mary said, "I''m not really sure either. She said she''s coming to work at Dihao Group, but I don''t know why she would come all the way to Dihao."


    James nodded but thought to himself: Although the Dong family is far inferior to the Ye family, they still have some influence in Yanjing. Linda Dong has no need to give up her family''s business to work at Dihao Group.


    Could there be some special reason for her to join Dihao Group?


    James was puzzled but couldn''t figure it out at the moment.


    It seemed he would have to wait until Linda Dong joined Dihao Group and then have Margaret Wang investigate her thoroughly.


    At this moment, Mary seemed to remember something and patted her forehead, saying, "Oh, James, I have a meeting with people from Dihao Group tomorrow and can''t get away. Can you go to the airport to pick up Linda and arrange a welcome dinner for her?"


    James agreed, "I''ll make arrangements for tomorrow."


    Mary added, "Make sure to find a nice place, don''t worry about the cost. Use my bank card."


    She was about to hand him her wallet when James quickly said, "No need, I know someone who runs a pretty good restaurant. I''ll take care of it."


    With that, James took out his phone, intending to send a message to Charles Chen at Buckingham Palace to arrange a banquet. S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But then he thought, Buckingham Palace is a surprise for his wife, so it would be better to choose another place to entertain Linda Dong.


    So he sent a message to Lord Hong instead.


    "I need to host a dinner for a friend. Can you arrange a high-end hotel, but not Buckingham Palace?"


    Soon, Lord Hong replied, "Don''t worry, Mr. Ye. I have a top-notch restaurant called Tianxiang Mansion, on par with Buckingham Palace in Jinling. I''ll arrange the best diamond suite and the finest banquet for you tomorrow."


    James replied with a single word, "Okay."


    ...


    The next day, Mary spent the entire day at Dihao Group, busy handling cooperation-related matters.


    James called Margaret Wang, the Vice Chairman of Dihao Group, to inquire about Linda Dong''s upcoming employment.


    Margaret was surprised that James knew about it. She said Linda Dong had applied for the position of Administrative Director, a mid-level management role. The group found her resume impressive and decided to hire her, with her start date set for a few days later.


    James then instructed her to keep an eye on Linda Dong after she joined and report any unusual activities to him immediately.


    After arranging things with Margaret, James took a taxi to the airport in the afternoon to pick up Mary''s bestie, Linda Dong.


    As he arrived at the airport and was about to head to the arrivals hall, a Mercedes-Benz G-Class suddenly screeched to a halt in front of him.


    Robert Xiao, Mary''s cousin, stuck his head out of the window, frowning at James and asked, "James, what are you doing here?"


    "I''m here to pick up one of Mary''s friends. What about you guys?"


    James frowned, noticing that the car was filled with familiar faces, including Robert Xiao, Daniel Wang, and Barbara Xiao.


    Robert sneered, "You mean Miss Dong? We¡¯re here to take care of her, so you can leave!"


    James snorted coldly, "If you want to leave, go ahead yourself."


    With that, James ignored them and walked straight into the arrivals hall.


    Robert was about to curse when Barbara quickly reminded him, "Brother, Miss Dong is about to arrive. Grandma reminded you to make a good impression on her! If you can make her your girlfriend, your status in our family will be unmatched. Don¡¯t stoop to that loser¡¯s level."


    Robert immediately snapped out of it.


    He almost forgot the main purpose of coming today.


    In fact, welcoming Linda Dong was secondary; making a good impression and winning her over was the primary goal.


    The Dong family had significant influence in Yanjing. If he could get together with her, he would rise to great heights, and the Xiao family would also benefit greatly.


    So, he suppressed his displeasure towards James and hurriedly led everyone out of the car towards the arrivals hall.


    At this moment, a particularly striking, young, and beautiful woman appeared in the crowd.


    She had long chestnut hair, wore a white suit that accentuated her curvaceous figure, and despite wearing sunglasses, her porcelain-white skin and fiery red lips couldn''t hide her stunning beauty.


    Upon closer inspection, her looks were no less impressive than Mary''s, each having their own unique charm.


    For a moment, the eyes of the crowd waiting outside the arrivals hall were all focused on her.


    Robert was already mesmerized.


    Even Daniel Wang, who had come along for the fun, couldn''t help but exclaim, "No wonder she''s a lady from a prominent family in Yanjing; her aura is indeed different."


    At this moment, Linda Dong also saw them and quickly walked over, waving her hand and saying, "Robert, Barbara, and James, long time no see!"


    Robert felt a surge of excitement and quickly said, "Long time no see, Linda. You¡¯ve become even more beautiful."


    James smiled and also said, "Long time no see."


    Robert then hurriedly said, "Linda, knowing you were coming, I booked a private room at the best hotel in Jinling to welcome you. Let''s head over there now."


    Linda glanced at James and apologized to Robert, "Robert, I''m really sorry. I already made plans with Mary and James. Let''s reschedule. I''ll be in Jinling for a long time, so there will be plenty of opportunities."


    Hearing this, Robert felt a surge of anger. On such an important day, this loser James had to mess things up. It was infuriating.


    So he deliberately said, "Linda, to welcome you, I booked a room at Tianxiang Mansion, the most famous restaurant in Jinling, with a minimum spend of 300,000! I wonder where my live-in brother-in-law has booked? If it''s too low-end, wouldn''t that be disrespectful to you?"

 Chapter 29 – Low-key is good

    Once he heard that Robert Xiao had booked Tianxiang Mansion, James Ye was a bit surprised.


    What a coincidence! Didn¡¯t Lord Hong say Tianxiang Mansion was his?


    And didn¡¯t he also prepare a banquet for me there?


    At this moment, Daniel Wang exclaimed, "Robert, you actually managed to book the Golden Suite at Tianxiang Mansion? That¡¯s not something just anyone can book!"


    Robert Xiao smiled smugly, "To be honest, except for the top-tier Diamond Suite, I can pretty much book any other suite at Tianxiang Mansion."


    Despite his words, Robert was just boasting.


    In reality, to book this Golden Suite, Old Madame Xiao had to personally intervene, paying a hefty price and pulling several strings to succeed.


    Linda Dong, who had heard of Tianxiang Mansion¡¯s reputation even in Yanjing, quickly said, "We¡¯re all friends here, there¡¯s no need to be so extravagant."


    Robert Xiao flattered, "You¡¯re a distinguished guest, it¡¯s different from ordinary friends."


    Then he turned to James Ye and asked, "Brother-in-law, where did you book your banquet?"


    James replied calmly, "What a coincidence, I also booked Tianxiang Mansion."


    "Hahaha!" Robert Xiao laughed loudly, "James, aren¡¯t you afraid of spraining your back from all that bragging? With your status, you couldn¡¯t even book the Bronze Suite at Tianxiang Mansion, yet you dare to boast here."


    James smiled faintly and said, "Whether I¡¯m bragging or not, what does it have to do with you? I¡¯m not inviting you to dinner, so why are you so concerned?"


    Robert Xiao sneered, "Hmph, looking at you, I bet you can¡¯t even get through the door of Tianxiang Mansion!"


    Linda Dong, seeing James being targeted, felt a bit sympathetic.


    She knew James was a live-in son-in-law with no money or status in the Xiao Family. It was unrealistic for him to host a welcome dinner at such a top-tier hotel.


    She figured James was just trying to save face, so he said it on purpose. Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Not wanting James to be too embarrassed, she spoke up to smooth things over, "Oh, there¡¯s no need to argue. Since we all booked the same place, let¡¯s just go together."


    Robert Xiao mocked James, "Alright, for Linda¡¯s sake, I¡¯ll let you tag along for a meal today, so you can see what a high-end hotel looks like!"


    James chuckled and didn¡¯t respond.


    Lord Hong would kneel before him, so what was his hotel in his eyes?


    But Robert Xiao, this loser, was just too blind to see the truth!


    ...


    Find the original at bit.ly/3iBfjkV.


    Tianxiang Mansion was a classically styled Chinese hotel, its decor and style filled with traditional elegance and extreme luxury. Even the sign at the entrance was made of top-grade huanghuali wood.


    James Ye looked at the interior decorations of Tianxiang Mansion and couldn¡¯t help but be a bit surprised.


    He didn¡¯t expect Lord Hong¡¯s restaurant to be quite decent. He thought he might bring his wife here to try it sometime.


    Linda Dong looked around and praised, "I¡¯ve heard of Tianxiang Mansion¡¯s reputation even in Yanjing, and it truly lives up to its name."


    Robert Xiao laughed, "Of course, for you, Linda, we have to use the best restaurant."


    Then he glanced at James and mocked, "Unlike some people, who wouldn¡¯t have the chance to come to such a high-end restaurant if not for your presence."


    Barbara Xiao deliberately asked, "James, didn¡¯t you also book a suite at Tianxiang Mansion? Which one is it? Show us around."


    James replied calmly, "I don¡¯t remember exactly which one. I just sent a text to the owner asking him to arrange it. Let me check my message history."


    Robert Xiao sneered, "Do you even know who the owner is? You¡¯re bragging here, but the owner is the famous Lord Hong. You dare to talk big, be careful he doesn¡¯t hear you and kill you with a finger."


    At this moment, James checked his phone and looked at the message Lord Hong sent him last night. He said calmly, "He said he reserved the Diamond Suite for me."


    Hearing this, Robert Xiao immediately burst into laughter, "Hahaha¡­ Diamond Suite? James, you¡¯re killing me. Do you know who can get into the Diamond Suite? In all of Jinling, fewer than ten people qualify! What do you count for?"


    Linda Dong had been silent, but she couldn¡¯t help thinking, James loves to save face too much. Given his status, how could he possibly get the Diamond Suite? She used to think he was just poor and powerless, but now she realized he was also vain.


    What a disappointment!


    James smiled without saying anything. In his eyes, these people mocking him were all short-sighted fools, but he couldn¡¯t be bothered to argue with them.


    Daniel Wang also mocked, "James, even my dad doesn¡¯t qualify to dine in the Diamond Suite, and you dare to brag!"


    Barbara Xiao chimed in, "Brother Fei, people like him don¡¯t even qualify to eat leftovers from the Diamond Suite!"


    James looked at Daniel Wang and couldn¡¯t help but laugh.


    This idiot, didn¡¯t he know his brother was knocked out by Lord Hong yesterday? And he still dared to come to his restaurant?


    So he deliberately asked, "Brother Daniel, I heard your brother had some trouble yesterday?"


    Daniel Wang frowned, "How did you know?"


    Then he continued, "My brother was attacked yesterday and is still unconscious. We¡¯re investigating who hurt him, and we¡¯ll skin them alive! Do you have any clues?"


    James shook his head and pretended to be clueless, "I don¡¯t know, I just heard he was in trouble, but I don¡¯t know the details."


    "Hmph!" Daniel Wang sneered, "You loser, don¡¯t gossip about my Wang Family¡¯s affairs. If there¡¯s a next time, I won¡¯t be polite to you!"


    James smiled and ignored him.


    What a family of fools!


    They didn¡¯t even know it was Lord Hong who knocked out his brother? How amusing.


    At this moment, a man in black approached the group.


    James recognized him as one of Lord Hong¡¯s bodyguards.


    The man saw James and immediately recognized him, his face full of eagerness and flattery, almost bowing to greet him.


    James quickly shook his head at him.


    The man in black stopped and thought that Mr. Ye probably didn¡¯t like being too high-profile, so he said, "Honored guests, please follow me. The suite has been prepared for a long time."


    Robert Xiao was stunned. Since when did the Golden Suite at Tianxiang Mansion have such attentive service? He hadn¡¯t even given his name, yet someone came to greet him personally.


    What an honor!


    Daniel Wang exclaimed, "Robert, you really have some clout. I think this guy is one of Lord Hong¡¯s men. It seems Lord Hong values you a lot. Do you know him? You¡¯ve never mentioned it. You¡¯re really low-key!"


    Robert Xiao laughed heartily, full of pride, "There¡¯s no need to brag about such things. It¡¯s better to stay low-key! Hahaha!"

 Chapter 30 – Come here to me!

    Linda Dong was a bit surprised.


    She didn''t expect Robert Xiao to have such connections in Jinling. Compared to James Ye, he was far superior.


    It seemed that if she got closer to him in the future, things would be much more convenient in Jinling.


    The black-clothed man respectfully led everyone to the door of the diamond private room.


    Then, he took out a form and handed it directly to James Ye, saying softly, "Sir, please sign here."


    This diamond private room was specifically reserved for James Ye, and it required his signature for confirmation.


    James Ye took the pen and paper with a smile and was about to write his name when Robert Xiao''s voice suddenly rang out.


    "Fuck, put the pen down!"


    Robert Xiao walked over with a stern face, snatched the pen and paper from James Ye''s hand, and quickly wrote his own name. He then scolded James Ye, "Have you no shame? Don''t you know who reserved this room? What right do you have to sign here?"


    The black-clothed man was stunned, looking at James Ye with a questioning gaze, as if asking if he should step in and teach this bastard a lesson.


    James Ye said calmly, "It''s fine. If he wants to sign, let him sign."


    In front of Linda Dong, James Ye didn''t want to make things too embarrassing, after all, she was his wife''s bestie.


    Soon, everyone sat down in the private room.


    Robert Xiao arranged for Linda Dong to sit at the main seat, while James Ye sat alone in a corner, with only Linda Dong occasionally speaking to him.


    Soon, exquisite dishes and fine wine were served by the waiters.


    All the ingredients were top-notch, with premium abalone and ten-pound Australian lobsters merely serving as side dishes. sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Even the wine was a century-old national treasure, with a single half-kilogram bottle selling for over a hundred thousand.


    Linda Dong, who had seen a lot, was also shocked by the extravagance of this meal.


    Daniel Wang exclaimed, "Robert, what''s the budget for this meal?"


    Discover the complete story on pawread dot com.


    Robert Xiao proudly said, "This meal has a budget of three hundred thousand."


    Daniel Wang was shocked, "This isn''t just a three hundred thousand budget. Just these few bottles of wine alone are worth more than that."


    Robert Xiao was secretly alarmed, suddenly feeling something was off. Recalling the black-clothed man''s attitude towards him earlier, could it be that Lord Hong had given him some special treatment?


    But he didn''t even know Lord Hong!


    Linda Dong''s eyes sparkled, and she looked at Robert Xiao with newfound respect, saying, "Robert, thank you!"


    Robert Xiao, hearing Linda Dong''s words, beamed with joy and said, "It''s nothing, it''s what I should do."


    Then, Robert Xiao smiled and asked James Ye, "James, you must have never eaten such good food in your life, right?"


    James Ye sneered, "Where do you get your confidence?"


    Robert Xiao scoffed, "Eating my food and still talking tough! If you ever had the chance to eat such good food before, I''d chop off my head and let you kick it like a ball!"


    James Ye smiled faintly, remembering his childhood days of unimaginable luxury. Such a meal was merely servant food in the Ye Family.


    Barbara Xiao, seeing James Ye''s refusal to bow his head, angrily said, "James, what kind of attitude is that towards my brother? Do you believe I won''t kick you out right now? Letting you mooch off a meal, and you still act ungrateful! You''re such a fucking loser!"


    However, at that moment!


    The door of the private room was kicked open forcefully, and a fierce voice rang out, "Where the fuck did you idiots come from? Who the fuck let you into this private room!"


    As the voice fell, a man wearing an Armani suit, with a large gold chain around his neck and a scar like a centipede running from his eye to his chin, walked in.


    The man held a form in one hand and a club in the other, looking menacing!


    Behind him, a dozen burly, tattooed men lined up, surrounding everyone.


    Everyone was stunned, filled with fear. What was going on?


    The leader was named Brother Biao, Lord Hong''s right-hand man, who had fought alongside him in the early days and was well-known in Jinling.


    This time, Lord Hong had instructed him that the extremely distinguished Mr. Ye would be using the diamond private room at Tianxiang Pavilion, and he must ensure everything was in order.


    But to his surprise, when checking the room''s usage, he found that it had been signed for by some nobody named Robert Xiao. He was both angry and scared.


    Angry that this damn Robert Xiao had taken the room prepared for an esteemed guest;


    Scared that there was only one top-tier banquet in the diamond private room, and if the real guest arrived and it was gone, what would he do?


    At this moment, Robert Xiao stood up and said, "What are you doing? This room was reserved by me. Why are you barging in and causing trouble?"


    Brother Biao pointed at Robert Xiao and questioned, "Are you Robert Xiao?"


    Robert Xiao nodded proudly, "Yes, I am!"


    Brother Biao coldly said, "Drag him over here!"


    Two burly men immediately grabbed Robert Xiao and dragged him over.


    "What are you doing? Let go of me!"


    "Fuck you, why are you talking so much!"


    One of the burly men kicked him in the knee, and Robert Xiao knelt in front of Brother Biao in pain.


    Brother Biao''s cold eyes scanned Robert Xiao, making him shiver as if being cut by a knife.


    Slap!


    The signed form was thrown on Robert Xiao''s head.


    Brother Biao cursed, "Who gave you the right to use this room?"


    Robert Xiao tried to stay calm, "It''s a misunderstanding, a misunderstanding. I reserved this golden private room in advance and paid a deposit of three hundred thousand!"


    Daniel Wang also chimed in, "What are you doing? This room was reserved by Robert. Don''t you have any rules?"


    Brother Biao spat and slapped Robert Xiao, "Golden private room? This is a diamond private room prepared for an esteemed guest! How dare you use it, you trash!"


    Everyone was stunned.


    Diamond private room?


    No wonder this room was so luxurious, with top-tier dishes and wine. It wasn''t a golden private room at all!


    Daniel Wang broke out in a cold sweat. The diamond private room was so prestigious that they had no right to enter, let alone use it.


    Barbara Xiao quickly said, "Brother, don''t you know Lord Hong? Explain to them quickly."


    Robert Xiao was in agony and hurriedly said, "Shut up, what nonsense are you talking about? How could I possibly know Lord Hong?"


    Barbara Xiao said, "But you just said..."


    Linda Dong watched the siblings'' performance and realized that Robert Xiao had been bragging all along.


    She felt a bit disappointed.


    Brother Biao sneered, "You dare to use Lord Hong''s name? You''re tired of living!"


    Brother Biao stood up and ordered his men, "Hold this guy''s hand! I''m going to teach him a lesson."


    Robert Xiao was immediately restrained, unable to move!


    The next second!


    Brother Biao swung the club down without hesitation!


    "Ah... my hand, my hand is ruined!"


    Robert Xiao screamed in agony, drenched in cold sweat, and fainted in disgrace as a foul smell emanated from his pants.


    Seeing this, Daniel Wang and Barbara Xiao turned pale with fear.


    Robert Xiao, who had been so confident just moments ago, was instantly beaten back to his original form. Who wouldn''t be scared?


    Linda Dong was also terrified, trembling and hiding behind James Ye, saying in fear, "What should we do? They won''t kill us, will they?"


    James Ye patted Linda Dong''s shoulder and comforted her, "Don''t worry, as long as I''m here, no one will harm you."


    Linda Dong looked at James Ye gratefully. Although she knew he couldn''t solve such a problem, his words still made her feel a bit more at ease.


    Brother Biao kicked Robert Xiao like a dead pig and cursed, "What a coward!"


    Brother Biao then turned his head and looked at Daniel Wang.


    "And you, were you the one who said I had no rules? Come here, you fucker!"

 Chapter 31 – Lets see who dares touch her!

    Daniel Wang was scared out of his wits, trembling as he said, "Brother Biao, I''m from the Wang Family..."


    "Wang Family?" Brother Biao sneered, "What the hell is the Wang Family worth?"


    Brother Biao spat disdainfully, kicked Daniel to the ground, and said coldly, "Lord Hong just taught a Wang Family idiot a lesson yesterday, had him slapped ten thousand times, and you still dare mention the Wang Family to me?"


    "What?" Daniel was dumbfounded.


    He thought his brother had been robbed by some thugs, but he never expected it was Lord Hong who had beaten him up!


    Just as he was scared out of his mind, Brother Biao raised a stick and smashed it down on his head!


    With a thud!


    Daniel felt the world spinning, his head buzzing, blood streaming from his mouth and nose, and his consciousness fading.


    Barbara Xiao screamed in terror!


    Daniel was her fianc¨¦, her only chance to marry into the Wang Family. If anything happened to him, her life would be over.


    "Call an ambulance, hurry up and call an ambulance!"


    Barbara shouted in panic, trembling as she took out her phone, but she was so scared she couldn''t press any buttons, only able to scream continuously.


    Brother Biao frowned and cursed, "Fuck you, what are you screaming for? Someone shut this bitch up, make sure she doesn''t speak again!"


    "Yes, Brother Biao!"


    The underlings grinned cruelly.


    They loved nothing more than destroying beautiful women, especially a feisty one like Barbara.


    Barbara panicked, trying to back away, but there was a wall behind her, leaving no room to escape.


    To access the premium content, go to [ pawread dot com ].


    "Come here, bitch!"


    A one-eyed brute grabbed Barbara by the hair and yanked her up.


    Then, he started slapping her face with all his might.


    These underlings had been following Brother Biao for years, and they were ruthless when they fought.


    In just a few slaps, Barbara''s face swelled up like a pig''s head, blood and saliva dripping down.


    A woman beaten like this would have permanent scars, almost equivalent to being disfigured!


    Linda Dong, seeing Brother Biao''s brutality, shivered in fear, clinging tightly to James Ye''s back.


    At this moment, Brother Biao noticed James and Linda in the corner and ordered, "Get those two as well! How dare they take the diamond private room reserved for our esteemed guest? They deserve to die!"


    An underling reached out to grab Linda without any hesitation.


    "Let''s see who dares touch her!"


    James''s eyes turned icy cold as he kicked the brute to the ground.


    Brother Biao''s face darkened, and he shouted, "Who the fuck are you?"


    James replied calmly, "I''m someone you can''t afford to mess with!"


    "You little punk, you''re asking for death!"


    James shook his head and dialed Lord Hong''s number.


    "Lord Hong, I''m in the diamond private room right now. Get your ass down here immediately!"


    After speaking, James hung up and stared coldly at Brother Biao.


    Linda''s face turned pale. Earlier, Robert Xiao had bragged about knowing Lord Hong and ended up miserably. Now James dared to speak so disrespectfully in front of Brother Biao; he might lose his life.


    Barbara, beaten to a pulp, looked at James in horror. This idiot was still showing off at a time like this, trying to get everyone killed?


    Brother Biao sneered, "Daring to offend Lord Hong in front of me, you must be tired of living."


    With that, Brother Biao waved to his underlings, "Kill him for me!" S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Suddenly, angry shouts came from outside the room, "Fuck, Biao, are you looking to die? How dare you touch Mr. Ye? I''ll chop you up and feed you to the dogs!"


    Brother Biao trembled as if struck by lightning.


    Lord Hong was here!


    Mr. Ye? Who was Mr. Ye?


    The next second, Lord Hong walked in, trembling, and kicked Brother Biao to the ground, "You blind fool, you can''t even recognize Mr. Ye. I''ll kill you!"


    Lord Hong cursed as he kicked Brother Biao repeatedly.


    The once arrogant Brother Biao now looked like a drowned rat.


    Linda was dumbfounded. What was going on?


    The underlings were also terrified. This young man was actually Mr. Ye? They had almost attacked him; it was like courting death.


    Lord Hong scolded the others, "You useless idiots, what are you standing there for? Kneel down and apologize to Mr. Ye!"


    "Mr. Ye, I was blind and almost offended you! Please spare our lives."


    The underlings knelt down, kowtowing and apologizing frantically.


    Brother Biao also knelt, slapping his own face and begging, "I''m sorry, Mr. Ye. Please, be the bigger person and forgive me this once!"


    Lord Hong also slapped himself, nervously saying, "Mr. Ye, it''s my fault for not managing my men properly, causing them to offend you and your friends."


    James glanced at Linda and said calmly, "I was just having dinner with my wife''s bestie."


    Then, looking at the others, he said coldly, "They are not my friends."


    Linda was utterly shocked!


    James wasn''t bragging at all. He had indeed reserved the diamond private room at Tianxiang Mansion, and it was personally reserved for him by Lord Hong!


    Thinking back to how she had looked down on James, Linda felt deeply ashamed.


    At this moment, Robert Xiao, hearing the conversation, was trembling with fear!


    What was going on? James, this useless guy, was actually friends with Lord Hong?


    Barbara was also stunned. James really knew Lord Hong!


    The key point was that Lord Hong was so respectful to him!


    Looking at her fianc¨¦ Daniel, who was now unconscious and covered in blood, Barbara was terrified.


    Lord Hong, wiping the cold sweat from his forehead, assured James, "Mr. Ye, rest assured, this will never happen again. Anytime you come to Tianxiang Mansion, the diamond private room is always yours. If any of my men fail to recognize you, I''ll gouge out their eyes!"


    James nodded and turned to Linda, "Linda, we''ve had our meal. It''s too chaotic here; let''s leave."


    Linda, snapped out of her shock, asked instinctively, "What about the others?"


    Seeing the miserable state of Robert Xiao, Daniel Wang, and Barbara Xiao, she felt a bit worried.


    James said calmly, "Let Lord Hong handle it."


    Lord Hong immediately said, "Don''t worry, Mr. Ye. I''ll arrange for an ambulance to take them to the hospital!"


    "Alright," James nodded, "In that case, we''ll leave now."


    Linda, still in a daze, followed James out of Tianxiang Mansion.


    Outside, Linda couldn''t calm down for a long time.


    Looking at James, who seemed unfazed, she felt like he was shrouded in mystery.


    "James, about today..."


    Before Linda could finish, James interrupted, "Linda, please keep today''s events a secret. If Mary finds out I know people like Lord Hong, she''ll be furious."


    Linda nodded, "Alright, I understand."


    After James and Linda left, Lord Hong arranged for an ambulance to take the injured to the hospital.


    Barbara''s face was so swollen that her jaw was deformed, essentially disfiguring her.


    Robert Xiao''s hand was almost crippled and would take a long time to heal.


    As for Daniel Wang, he suffered a severe concussion. Though he was out of immediate danger, the aftereffects would haunt him for life.

 Chapter 32 – The Hanging Gardens are booked for private use!

    Linda Dong''s start date with Dihao Group, arranged by Margaret Wang, was set for tomorrow.


    After leaving Tianxiang Mansion, James Ye dropped her off at her hotel and then took his leave.


    Linda was still reeling from the dinner events while contemplating her future.


    On the surface, she had come to Jinling to work for Dihao Group, but in reality, she carried a significant family responsibility.


    Her father had told her that there was top-secret information indicating that the Ye Family in Yanjing had found their long-lost young master and had even bought Dihao Group for him to practice managing.


    In other words, this young master of the Ye Family was in Jinling and was the chairman of Dihao Group.


    Although the Dong Family was quite prestigious in Yanjing, they were only considered second-tier compared to the Ye Family, which was leagues ahead.


    Therefore, the Dong Family hoped that Linda could seize the opportunity to get close to the Ye Family''s young master before his identity was made public. If she could form an alliance through marriage, it would be ideal.


    Linda was somewhat resistant to this idea, but the heavy responsibility of revitalizing her family weighed on her shoulders, so she dared not slack off.


    She had traveled a long way to Jinling to work at Dihao Group, aiming to find a chance to meet the mysterious chairman and attract his attention.


    In Yanjing, Linda was considered a top-tier beauty in high society.


    She believed that with her looks, knowledge, abilities, and pure body, she could attract the attention of the Ye Family''s young master.


    If she could marry him, the Dong Family would undoubtedly rise to become a first-tier family in Yanjing!


    Thinking of this, she was filled with anticipation for her start date tomorrow.


    At the same time, she was also curious about the mysterious young master of the Ye Family.


    She couldn''t help but wonder about his age and appearance. Was he elegant, tall, and handsome?


    She took out her phone and opened a video app.


    She clicked on a video in her favorites with millions of views.


    This video showed James Ye slapping a sales director with cash at the Emerald Pavilion.


    She had analyzed this video long ago and knew it happened in Jinling, coinciding with the time the Ye Family''s young master was found.


    So, she speculated that the god-level tycoon in the video was likely the Ye Family''s young master and the chairman of Dihao Group.


    She carefully studied the back of the god-level tycoon in the video, watching and pondering seriously.


    From the blurry video, she could tell that the famous god-level tycoon was probably in his twenties, tall and slim, but his face was unclear.


    However, his physique was quite impressive, comparable to those long-legged Korean oppas.


    With such a physique, his face shouldn''t be too bad either!


    But suddenly, Linda had a strange feeling that this person resembled James Ye.


    But thinking it over, she found it unlikely.


    James was a live-in son-in-law of the Xiao Family. The Xiao Family''s status was nowhere near the Ye Family''s. If James were really the Ye Family''s young master, how could he live in the Xiao Family''s "chicken coop"?


    It seemed she was overthinking!


    ...


    Read this novel and other amazing translated novels from the original source at the ]"


    The next morning, Linda arrived at Dihao Group early.


    Vice Chairman Wang personally handled her onboarding.


    Margaret Wang took her around the administrative department, introduced her to her job responsibilities, and then said, "Linda, if you have any questions in the future, feel free to ask me or come to my office directly."


    Linda nodded gratefully and tentatively asked, "Vice Chairman Wang, is there any chance I could meet the chairman? Since I''ll be handling administrative affairs, I''m worried I might inadvertently neglect him if I don''t know him."


    Margaret Wang immediately became alert.


    James had instructed her to keep an eye on Linda, and now Linda was asking about the chairman right away. It seemed she wasn''t simple.


    What was this beautiful girl¡¯s real purpose in coming all the way to Dihao Group?


    She told Linda, "Our chairman rarely comes to the office, but if he does, I''ll let him know. If he wants to meet you, I''ll inform you."


    Linda felt a bit disappointed but still smiled and nodded, saying, "Thank you, Vice Chairman Wang!"


    Margaret Wang returned to her office and reported the matter to James.


    When James heard that Linda wanted to meet him as soon as she joined the company, he became even more cautious.


    This woman was indeed here for him.


    What was her purpose?


    Did she want to harm him or seduce him?


    Whatever her intentions, James found them repulsive.


    He decided to minimize contact with Linda and never let her know his true identity!


    ...


    That evening, James''s wife, Mary Xiao, had reserved a table at a high-end restaurant to treat Linda to dinner.


    As Mary''s husband, James naturally had to accompany her.


    This made James a bit annoyed.


    He had just decided to keep his distance from Linda, but now he had to have dinner with her.


    Annoyed as he was, he still prepared himself to go to the restaurant with Mary.


    However, upon arriving at the restaurant, James discovered that Mary had reserved the Hanging Gardens at the Buckingham Palace Hotel!


    The Hanging Gardens banquet hall was usually reserved for high-end guests and never offered for private events. But James had booked it for their wedding anniversary, an unprecedented event for Buckingham Palace.


    There were only three days left until their anniversary.


    A large, eye-catching notice had been placed at the entrance of the Buckingham Palace Hotel: "In three days, the Hanging Gardens will be reserved for a distinguished guest. We apologize for any inconvenience."


    Everyone who saw this notice was shocked!


    Someone had reserved the Hanging Gardens at Buckingham Palace?


    This place never offered private bookings!


    It was said that even the children of several high-ranking city officials had been refused when they wanted to hold their weddings here.


    Who could have the clout to book the entire Hanging Gardens from Buckingham Palace?


    Mary also saw the prominent notice and exclaimed, "Wow, someone actually booked the Hanging Gardens? That''s unbelievable!"


    James smiled beside her and said, "What''s so unbelievable? It''s just a banquet hall. Why can''t it be booked?"


    "You don''t understand," Mary said seriously. "This Buckingham Palace isn''t a local business. It''s a top-tier global hotel chain. Their Hanging Gardens is a unique feature, only for high-end guests. If they allowed private bookings, one big shot would book it today, another tomorrow, and other high-end guests wouldn''t be able to use it. So they simply don''t offer private bookings."


    Mary sighed, "I wonder what kind of background this person has to book this place. It''s really impressive!"


    James deliberately joked, "Maybe it''s someone who loves his wife and wants to hold a wedding for her here!" Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Mary was surprised, "A wedding here? He must really love his wife. She must be so happy!"

 Chapter 33 – Lets have a good gathering tomorrow!

    Hearing his wife say this, James Ye felt very happy inside.


    It seemed that the place he had chosen for their wedding anniversary would definitely satisfy his wife!


    The two of them arrived at the Hanging Gardens and sat at their reserved table. Linda Dong soon arrived as well.


    "Mary!"


    "Linda!"


    The two besties hugged each other tightly, their joy evident.


    After holding hands and chatting about old times for a long while, they finally calmed down.


    Linda said, "Mary, you''re too extravagant, choosing the Hanging Gardens for dinner!"


    Mary Xiao laughed, "Since you''re here, I had to go all out!"


    Linda giggled, "You''re truly my bestie!"


    Mary said, "To be honest, I didn''t even qualify to book a table here. I had to ask Margaret Wang, the Vice Chairman of Dihao Group, to help me with her membership card!"


    Linda sighed, "The Hanging Gardens does have high standards, like requiring a diamond membership, right?"


    "Yes," Mary nodded, "To be honest, it''s my first time here too!"


    Linda laughed, "Thank you so much, my dear Mary!"


    Then she added, "By the way, I saw a notice outside saying the Hanging Gardens will be booked out in three days?"


    "Yes," Mary said, "It''s strange. The Hanging Gardens never accepted private bookings before. I wonder what''s going on this time."


    Linda nodded and casually mentioned, "Recently, there was a god-level tycoon in Jinling on a short video platform. He bought a necklace with a dozen Rolls-Royces, dozens of black-clothed persons, and over ten million in cash. Did you see that video?"


    James shook his head, but Mary said, "I saw it. It was quite a spectacle."


    Linda said, "Everyone''s guessing who he is."


    Mary replied, "What''s there to guess about..."


    Linda laughed, "It''s gossip! Everyone wants to know who is so extravagant. Some say it might be the new Chairman of Dihao Group."


    James''s expression froze for a moment but quickly returned to normal.


    Linda continued, "Today, Buckingham Palace''s Hanging Gardens were booked again. I feel like the person who booked it is the same one from the video."


    Mary sighed helplessly, "It''s been so long, and you''re still so gossipy!"


    Linda laughed, "Gossip is a woman''s survival instinct!" S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Then she added, "I want to come here in three days to see who has the clout to book the Hanging Gardens!"


    James felt a headache coming on upon hearing this.


    He just wanted to surprise his wife and make up for the wedding they never had.


    But he didn''t want to draw everyone''s attention.


    However, he seemed to have underestimated the impact of the Hanging Gardens.


    Now, many people in Jinling, like Linda, probably wanted to see who booked the place.


    This was becoming a bit tricky.


    He needed to give Charles Chen a heads-up to make sure everything was perfectly prepared and, no matter what, not to reveal his identity.


    During dinner, Linda said to the two of them, "This time in Jinling, I also contacted some of our old classmates. Everyone wants to take this opportunity to have a reunion. What do you think?"


    James immediately said, "You guys have a reunion; I won''t join."


    "Why?" Linda asked, "We may not have been classmates for four years, but we did share a year together!"


    When Old Master Xiao took James in, he sent him to Jinling University to be in the same class as Mary Xiao for their senior year.


    After graduating, they got married immediately.


    However, James only shared a year with those classmates, and most of them looked down on him. They had no real bond, so he wasn''t interested in a reunion.


    Mary also didn''t want to attend the reunion and said, "James and I won''t go. I haven''t kept in touch with most of our classmates since graduation."


    Linda quickly said, "The main reason for the reunion is that Michael Wang from our class is opening a restaurant, and it''s opening tomorrow. He''s organizing everyone to support his restaurant and have a meal together."


    Then Linda added, "It wouldn''t be right not to go when he''s celebrating his grand opening, right?"


    As soon as she finished speaking, all three of their phones buzzed with a WeChat notification.


    Soon, many WeChat messages popped up.


    They each took out their phones and saw that Michael Wang had created a group chat for their classmates, which quickly grew to over thirty people.


    Michael Wang said in the group, "Dear old classmates, my small restaurant will officially open at noon tomorrow in Jinling. I hope the classmates in Jinling can come and support us. Let''s treat it as a class reunion!"


    "By the way, one of our class beauties, Linda Dong, is also in Jinling for work and will join the reunion. I heard she''s still single, so the single guys in the group should seize the opportunity!"


    Immediately, a bunch of replies flooded in.


    "Wow! Congratulations!"


    "Linda''s in Jinling? Why didn''t I hear about it? I''ll definitely be there!"


    "What about our other class beauty, Mary Xiao? Is she coming?"


    "I heard Mary is with that transfer student James Ye. I also heard James married into the Xiao Family?"


    "I heard that too. Is it true? I haven''t seen them since graduation..."


    "I heard their marriage is just for show, not real. Is that true?"


    Seeing these messages, Mary said to James, "Don''t take it to heart."


    James smiled slightly, "It''s okay. They''re just stating facts. I''m used to it."


    Linda quickly said in the group, "Stop gossiping! I''m having dinner with the couple right now, and they''re very much in love!"


    "Oh, it''s Linda!"


    A bunch of simps quickly surrounded her.


    At this moment, someone in the group @James. It was the group owner, Michael Wang: "James, even though you were only in our class for a short time, we were pretty close in school. You and your wife must come tomorrow!"


    James had a good impression of Michael. He was indeed a nice guy, always friendly and never mocking others. He was one of the few classmates James had a decent relationship with.


    Since Michael had said so, James replied immediately, "Alright, we''ll be there tomorrow."


    Michael quickly responded, "That''s great! Let''s have a good gathering tomorrow!"

 Chapter 34 – Stop showing off

    Seeing that James Ye agreed to attend the class reunion, Mary Xiao reminded him, "Michael Wang''s restaurant is opening, we should prepare a gift. We can''t go empty-handed."


    James nodded and said, "I''ll go buy a gift for him tomorrow morning."


    "Alright," Mary replied. "I have to go to the Dihao Group tomorrow morning anyway."


    Linda Dong asked excitedly, "You''re going to Dihao tomorrow morning? After you''re done, come find me. We can carpool to Michael Wang''s restaurant at noon."


    Mary laughed, "Your plan won''t work! I don''t have a car. I usually take a taxi or the bus, and sometimes James picks me up on his electomobile."


    "What?" Linda blurted out, "You''re a director now and you still haven''t bought a car?"


    Mary said, "I haven''t been working for long and haven''t earned much. James and I have our expenses, and I also give my mom some living expenses. We only have a few thousand left each month, which isn''t enough to buy a car."


    She continued, "Honestly, I think the bus is quite convenient. If the weather is good, riding James''s electomobile is also nice."


    Linda said seriously, "You should pay attention to appearances sometimes. After all, you''re a director at the Xiao Group and a partner directly working with Dihao. If you don''t even have a car, people will gossip." S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    James also thought Linda had a point.


    His wife had always been too frugal, and most of her earnings went to her mother. She had been neglecting herself for too long.


    Her mother was like a Brave Troops, only taking and never giving. She had saved over a million and invested it in unreliable financial products, but never thought to take out twenty or thirty thousand to buy her daughter a car.


    Thinking about this, James decided he needed to buy his wife a car. It would make her business trips more convenient and give her more face when negotiating deals.


    With this in mind, he decided to visit a car dealership first thing in the morning.


    ...


    After dinner, James and Mary bid farewell to Linda and took a taxi home.


    The taxi driver was listening to a novel on the radio when suddenly a news segment interrupted, announcing that the Hanging Gardens at the Buckingham Palace Hotel had been booked out. The radio host discussed the news on the program.


    The host exclaimed, "This is the first time in history that the Buckingham Palace has made an exception to book out the entire Hanging Gardens. I''m really curious who has such influence!"


    The taxi driver chimed in, "I bet the person who booked the Hanging Gardens is that god-level tycoon from the short video platform!"


    James didn''t respond, but he was a bit surprised.


    It seemed that the news of the Buckingham Palace Hotel''s top-floor Hanging Gardens being booked had indeed caused a sensation in Jinling!


    That night, the news continued to spread throughout Jinling, creating a buzz. Soon, everyone knew about it.


    Everyone knew that the Buckingham Palace Hotel operated on a membership basis, and only high-level members could use the Hanging Gardens. As for booking the entire place, even diamond members didn''t have that privilege!


    So, who had booked the Hanging Gardens became a major topic of curiosity.


    Rumors spread that the person who booked the Hanging Gardens was the god-level tycoon from the short video platform who had become famous nationwide.


    For the full version, visit [ ].


    Others said it was a wealthy overseas tycoon.


    Some even claimed it was a mysterious man who booked the place to hold a grand and romantic wedding.


    The third rumor seemed the most convincing!


    For a while, the rumor mill was in full swing!


    Countless women were envious and jealous upon hearing this.


    Everyone speculated about which woman was so fortunate that someone would spend millions overnight to book the entire Hanging Gardens to declare his love!


    Many people eagerly awaited the day to find out the truth!


    To avoid revealing his identity, James had instructed Charles Chen to make special modifications to the entire Hanging Gardens. At the same time, he eagerly anticipated the arrival of his wedding anniversary.


    He planned to give Mary Xiao a grand wedding on their anniversary!


    ...


    Early the next morning, James left home and headed to the car dealership.


    He had a bank card with a hundred billion on it, which he hadn''t really used yet.


    This time, he planned to buy Mary a luxurious car that would give her face.


    He initially thought of buying her a Rolls-Royce.


    But after thinking it over, he worried that such an expensive car would be hard to explain, and Mary, being low-key, might not even want to drive it.


    So he decided to buy her a business sedan worth around 500,000 yuan. It would be respectable but not too flashy, and practical enough that minor scratches or bumps wouldn''t be a big deal.


    With this in mind, he decided to buy her an Audi A6. Many businesspeople drove A6s, and it had a prestigious image. The A6 was also a long-wheelbase business sedan, perfect for Mary.


    Arriving at the Audi dealership, he parked his electomobile at the entrance and walked in.


    Several salespeople inside noticed a customer and two of them prepared to greet him.


    A woman in the back quickly said, "Oh, he came on an electomobile. He''s probably here to enjoy the air conditioning or use the WiFi. Don''t bother with him."


    Hearing he came on an electomobile, the others lost interest immediately.


    Recently, with the hot weather, poor people often came early to enjoy the air conditioning. Sometimes they shamelessly sat in the display cars and refused to leave, forcing the security to intervene, which annoyed the sales staff.


    James, riding an electomobile and wearing cheap clothes, didn''t look like someone who could afford an Audi.


    No one paid him any attention, but James didn''t mind. He went straight to the A6 display area and checked out the cars. He saw that the prices ranged from 300,000 to over 600,000 yuan. The top model, the A6 long-wheelbase executive version, was over 600,000 yuan.


    Honestly, the car looked pretty good!


    At over 600,000 yuan, it wasn''t too expensive, and Mary should be able to accept it.


    So he called out, "Do you have a new top-model A6 in stock? I''d like to take one today."


    The salespeople looked at him like he was crazy. One of them sneered, "Have you seen the price? Did you miss a zero?"


    James frowned at him, "It''s 618,000 yuan. I saw it."


    The man sneered, "You saw it, and you''re still shouting? Can you afford it? When the bill comes out and you can''t pay, it''ll be embarrassing with so many people watching!"


    James said coldly, "Are you sick? Did you forget to take your medicine this morning? Do you need me to call 120 and get an ambulance to take you away?"


    The man sneered, "Stop showing off. Do you want me to call security to kick you out? A poor guy here for the air conditioning and WiFi, and you''re pretending?"

 Chapter 35 – To play the pig to eat the tiger

    James Ye laughed instead of getting angry and asked, "If you sell this car, how much commission do you get?"


    The other person sneered, "I get ten thousand yuan!"


    James nodded, "Great, you just lost ten thousand yuan."


    With that, James turned and walked out.


    Just then, he bumped into the store manager coming in, whose name tag read "Sales Manager: Timothy Wang."


    James asked him, "Are you in charge here?"


    "Yes," Timothy nodded, "What can I do for you?"


    James pointed at the salesperson from earlier and said, "You should fire that salesperson. Keeping him here will only hurt your 4S store''s business."


    The salesperson rushed over and said, "Manager Wang, don''t listen to his nonsense. This guy is crazy! He''s just a loser coming here to use the internet and air conditioning!"


    James chuckled, "Whether I''m a loser or not, you''ll see soon enough."


    With that, he walked out and headed straight to the BMW showroom next door.


    As soon as he entered the BMW store, James saw the most luxurious BMW 760, the top model of the 7 Series, the most expensive BMW model.


    The BMW 760 has a 12-cylinder engine with immense power, and the interior is extravagantly luxurious.


    Feeling a bit spiteful, James thought, "Those idiots at Audi look down on me? Fine, I''ll buy a top-of-the-line BMW to show them."


    After all, he had plenty of money!


    So, he called over a BMW salesperson and asked, "Can I take this 760 right away?"


    The young saleswoman was stunned, "Sir, this car just arrived in the showroom today. Are you sure you want to buy it?"


    "Yes," James nodded, "I''m sure. Let''s go swipe my card!"


    "What? This car costs 2.6 million yuan!" The saleswoman was completely shocked. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She had been selling cars for a long time but had never seen a customer who walked in and wanted to swipe his card without saying much.


    James laughed, "I know, I saw the price. Just tell me if you''re selling it or not!"


    "Yes, yes, of course, we''re selling it..." The saleswoman said happily, "Please come this way!"


    Following her lead, James swiped his card, paid, and took the car in one go.


    When the 2.6 million yuan BMW 760 drove out, everyone at the Audi store was dumbfounded.


    James drove the BMW 760 to the Audi store entrance, opened the trunk, loaded his electric bike inside, and then drove off in grand style.


    The salesperson who had looked down on James was stunned, while Manager Timothy Wang said coldly, "Go to HR and hand over your stuff. You''re fired!"


    "Manager..."


    "Get out!"


    The other employees at the Audi store were also shocked. None of them had expected that the guy on the electric bike would be so audacious, buying a 2.6 million yuan car just like that!


    The salesperson who had looked down on James was filled with regret. Not only had he missed out on a big client and a huge commission, but he also lost his job. If he had known, he wouldn''t have judged people by their appearances...


    ...


    Driving the BMW 760 out, James felt a bit impulsive.


    It wasn''t that he was worried about the money; the car was just too expensive. How would he explain it to Mary Xiao?


    2.6 million yuan couldn''t just fall from the sky, right?


    Thinking it over, an excellent idea suddenly popped into his head.


    He drove to a roadside repair shop and spent twenty yuan to have the owner replace the BMW 760 badge with a BMW 520 badge.


    The 5 Series and 7 Series look quite similar, with the main differences being internal. Most people can''t tell them apart from the exterior, relying mainly on the badge.


    The 520 is the lowest model in the 5 Series, with average power and handling.


    The 760 is the top model in the 7 Series, with immense power and excellent handling.


    Driving the 760 with a 520 badge, James thought to himself, "Mary doesn''t know much about cars. If I tell her this is a BMW 520, she probably won''t recognize it."


    The repair shop owner clicked his tongue in amazement, thinking, "This guy looks honest, but he''s quite cunning. Intentionally changing a top-of-the-line 760 to a 520, he must be planning to play the pig to eat the tiger!"


    ...


    After buying the car, James remembered that today was Michael Wang''s restaurant opening, and he needed to prepare a gift.


    Thinking of Michael as one of the few college friends who had been good to him, he drove to a large art consignment shop and spent 200,000 yuan on an early painting by Qing Dynasty artist Huang Shen.


    Huang Shen wasn''t very famous, so most people wouldn''t recognize his work.


    The reason for buying such an antique painting was partly to give Michael a substantial gift, but also to avoid letting others know its true value.


    He thought, if anyone asked, he could just say it cost a few thousand yuan and get away with it.


    By the time he bought the painting, it was almost noon. James called his wife, Mary Xiao, to tell her he would pick her and Linda Dong up at the Dihao Group.


    When they met, Mary was shocked to see James driving a BMW 5 Series!


    She stared at James in disbelief and asked, "Where did this car come from?"


    James smiled, "I bought it for you!"


    "You bought it?" Mary was even more surprised, "Where did you get the money?"


    "Secret savings," James said, "I''ve been living with the Xiao Family for so long, and I didn''t spend a penny when we got married. I''ve been eating, living, and using the Xiao Family''s resources, so it''s not strange that I saved some money."


    Mary said, "But you should have saved the money for yourself! Why buy such an expensive car? This must have cost around 400,000 yuan, right?"


    James laughed, "You''re my wife. If I don''t spend my savings on you, who should I spend it on? A mistress? Besides, you''re a director now. Without a decent car, people will laugh at you."


    At this point, Linda Dong chimed in, "Mary, you do need a more business-like car. This one suits you well. James cares about you; you should be happy!"


    Mary nodded, feeling very touched, "James, thank you!"


    James gently squeezed her hand and smiled, "No need to be so polite with your husband."


    Then he called out to both of them, "Let''s head straight to Michael Wang''s restaurant!"


    Mary quickly asked, "Did you get him a gift?"


    "Yes," James said, "I bought him a painting."


    "A painting?" Mary asked curiously, "What kind of painting?"


    James said, "An antique painting from the antique street. It''s of a pomegranate, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune. I thought it was nice, so I bought it."


    Mary asked, "How much did it cost?"


    "A few thousand yuan."


    Mary nodded and smiled, "You might have been ripped off! You can''t get a genuine antique painting for a few thousand yuan."


    James laughed, "It doesn''t matter. It''s the thought that counts."


    Support us at bit.ly/3iBfjkV.


    Mary nodded in agreement, "You''re right. It''s the thought that counts. Let''s head over now!"

 Chapter 36 – Race

    Michael Wang''s newly opened restaurant was located in the development zone of Jinling City.


    The development zone was quite far from the city center, and the area was sparsely populated. James Ye was puzzled as to why Michael Wang chose to open his restaurant here.


    However, Mary Xiao mentioned that several large manufacturing enterprises, including big companies like Foxconn, were planning to move into the development zone soon, and it would become bustling in no time.


    So, Michael Wang''s decision to open his restaurant here was actually quite wise.


    Michael''s restaurant was situated on the side of a wide, new street and looked quite large, with two floors.


    The restaurant was named "Yuelai Diner," which had a certain poetic charm to it.


    When James Ye drove to the entrance of the restaurant, there was already a row of cars parked there. A few people were standing in front of a golden BMW, smoking and chatting.


    James recognized these people; they were all former classmates from college, but he had no real connection with them.


    The leader of the group was Paul Wang, a well-known rich kid from their class who had always had a thing for Mary Xiao, but she had never paid him any attention.


    At this moment, Paul Wang was leaning against the golden BMW, basking in the compliments from his classmates. A few male classmates were commenting on his new BMW, exclaiming, "Paul, you''re really living the dream! How long has it been since we graduated, and you''re already driving a BMW! Is this a 540? The top model of the 5 Series?"


    Paul Wang laughed heartily and said, "Oh, it''s just a 540, a car worth seventy to eighty grand, nothing much."


    "Wow! A 540? That''s the most expensive imported model of the 5 Series!"


    "Man, I can''t even scrape together the down payment for a $20,000 BMW 1 Series. Compared to Paul, I''m really lagging behind!"


    "Paul, this car must have some serious power, right?"


    Paul Wang smiled smugly and said, "It''s alright, the power is pretty strong. I rarely meet any competition on the streets."


    "That''s awesome! If only I had a BMW, my girlfriend wouldn''t complain about me not being able to afford a car every day. It''s driving me nuts!"


    At this moment, someone with sharp eyes noticed another BMW approaching and exclaimed, "Hey, is that another classmate''s BMW?"


    "Oh my god! Isn''t that James Ye, the loser?"


    "It looks like Mary Xiao is in the passenger seat! Damn, this gigolo is driving a BMW too. He must be riding on Mary''s coattails!"


    Paul Wang also saw James Ye in the car and said with a gloomy expression, "So it''s this waste of space! Damn, he''s really lucky!"


    Someone then asked, "Hey, what series is his BMW?"


    Just then, James Ye parked the car nearby and reversed into a spot. Paul Wang saw the 520 badge on the back and sneered disdainfully, "Hah, a 520, the lowest model of the 5 Series. Only a loser trying to look rich would drive this model!"


    Someone next to him immediately nodded and said, "Paul, you have the top model of the 5 Series, and he has the cheapest one. There''s a huge difference between the two of you!"


    For the full version, visit [ ].


    Paul Wang snorted coldly, "My car could buy two of his!"


    "Paul, you''re the best!"


    At this moment, James Ye parked the car, and Mary Xiao and Linda Dong got out first.


    The guys immediately stared, swarming to greet them, "Wow, the two beauties of our class are here together!"


    Mary Xiao and Linda Dong politely greeted everyone. Paul Wang, looking at the now even more stunning Mary Xiao, felt extremely unbalanced inside.


    Damn it, why?


    He had pursued Mary Xiao desperately in college, but she had never paid him any attention.


    Now, she had married a live-in son-in-law, a worthless gigolo!


    Heaven must be blind!


    Thinking of this, he sneered and mocked, "Hey James, your life as a live-in son-in-law seems pretty good! You''re even driving a BMW now! Did Mary''s family buy it for you? You''re really a role model for men taking shortcuts!"


    Mary Xiao''s expression turned a bit unpleasant upon hearing this, and Linda Dong immediately retorted, "Paul Wang, you''re mistaken. This car wasn''t bought by Mary''s family; James bought it himself!"


    "Oh really!" Paul Wang sneered, "Impressive, driving a 5 Series BMW!"


    Then, he deliberately challenged James, "Hey James, there''s not much traffic in this development zone, and the road in front of the restaurant is wide and straight. How about we race to see who''s faster?"


    James frowned, feeling a bit annoyed with Paul Wang.


    Why are you picking a fight with me? We have no beef with each other.


    Besides, you want to race cars with me? This is a BMW 760, the most expensive and fastest BMW model. Racing with you would be like bullying a child.


    Paul Wang thought he was scared and immediately mocked, "Oh James, you''re still as timid as you were in college! What''s there to be afraid of in a race? Are you worried about the gas? I''ll fill up your tank if that''s the problem."


    Linda Dong protested unhappily, "Hey, Paul Wang, what do you mean? Your car is a BMW 540, while James''s is a 520. The power difference is several levels. Do you think it''s fair to compare who runs faster?"


    Paul Wang shrugged, "It''s all about the skill of the driver! A good car doesn''t necessarily run faster; it also depends on the driver''s skill and courage. I wonder if James has the guts to race me? If he''s scared, then forget it. Everyone knows James has never been able to stand out."


    The people around immediately chimed in, "Yeah, if you''re scared, just say so. It''s not embarrassing."


    James Ye smiled instead of getting angry and said, "Paul Wang, we can race, but we can''t just talk about it. Let''s add some stakes to make it interesting, shall we?"


    "Sure!" Paul Wang was worried that James wouldn''t take the bait. Hearing him mention stakes, he immediately thought James was digging his own grave and said, "How about this: the loser kneels and apologizes to the winner. What do you think?"


    James shook his head, "We''re adults now, let''s not play such childish games."


    At this moment, Michael Wang, dressed in a suit, came out holding a large plate of firecrackers. Seeing James, he excitedly approached and said, "Hey James, you''re here!"


    James nodded and smiled at him, "Congratulations on your new restaurant, Michael!" sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Michael Wang laughed, "Thanks, brother!"


    Paul Wang then coldly said, "James, don''t change the subject. Tell me, what stakes do you think are appropriate?"


    Michael Wang curiously asked, "What''s going on? What are you guys up to?"


    James smiled slightly, looking at the large plate of firecrackers in Michael''s arms, and asked, "Michael, how many firecrackers are in this plate?"


    "Thirty thousand!" Michael Wang laughed, "This plate of firecrackers isn''t cheap, over six hundred bucks!"


    James nodded and said to Paul Wang, "How about this: we''ll race, and the loser will set off this plate of firecrackers inside their car. How about that?"

 Chapter 37 – Cant take the loss

    Paul Wang couldn''t contain his excitement upon hearing this.


    His car was a 540, while James Ye''s was a 520. No matter how hard James tried, he couldn''t possibly win.


    James actually dared to bet so big with him!


    If they set off thirty thousand firecrackers inside the car, it would be ruined. The interior, seats, and control panel would be completely destroyed.


    Since James was courting death himself, Paul saw it as a perfect opportunity to humiliate him!


    Without hesitation, Paul nodded and shouted, "Everyone bear witness! James and I will race to see whose car is faster. The loser has to set off these firecrackers inside their car!"


    He added, "Anyone who backs out or cheats, may their whole family die!"


    Several male classmates started jeering, and those upstairs, upon hearing the commotion, rushed out to watch. Around twenty or thirty people gathered at the entrance, eager for the show.


    Everyone thought James was an idiot. How could a 520 compete with a 540? This was a straight road; the winner depended more on the car''s performance than the driver''s skill.


    Even if Schumacher were driving the 520, he couldn''t beat the 540!


    It seemed James''s brand-new BMW 520 was about to be declared a total loss!


    Mary Xiao kept trying to dissuade James, saying, "James, don''t let him provoke you. He''s doing it on purpose. Let''s not compete with him."


    James smiled slightly, "Don''t worry, honey. Your husband will never lose."


    Paul laughed heartily, "James, I have to admire your courage! Since that''s the case, let''s cut the chatter and get straight to the race!"


    "Alright," James nodded, "How do you want to race?"


    Paul pointed to the intersection at the end of the road, "We''ll start at the same time, race to that intersection, make a U-turn, and come back. Whoever returns first wins. How about it?"


    James smiled, "No problem!"


    "Great!" Paul said excitedly, "Everyone bear witness, we''re starting the race right now!"


    With that, he got into his BMW 540 and drove onto the main road.


    Ignoring Mary''s attempts to stop him, James drove his car next to Paul''s, aligning the fronts of their cars.


    A mischievous male student laughed, "I''ll do the countdown for you!"


    "Great!" Paul laughed, "Start when you''re ready!"


    James nodded and switched his BMW 760 to sport mode.


    The BMW 760 had a 6.6-liter engine with 585 horsepower.


    Meanwhile, the BMW 540 had a 3.0-liter engine with 340 horsepower.


    The difference in engine size and power was immense!


    But Paul had no idea that James''s 520 was actually a top-tier 760. He thought he had the race in the bag.


    The student responsible for the countdown shouted excitedly, "Ready! 3, 2, 1!"


    As soon as the words left his mouth, Paul floored the gas pedal!


    He knew James was destined to lose, but he wanted to make James''s defeat even more humiliating!


    However, to his surprise, a black shadow shot out from his right side, instantly leaving him far behind!


    It was James''s BMW 520!


    Paul could hardly believe his eyes!


    Damn it!


    How was this possible?


    It couldn''t be!


    James''s 520 only had 184 horsepower, while his car had 340 horsepower, nearly double! How could James so easily overtake him?!


    The onlookers were also stunned!


    No one expected James, who everyone thought would definitely lose, to shoot out like an arrow and instantly leave Paul far behind!


    Before Paul even reached the halfway point, James had already made the U-turn at the intersection!


    As Paul was about to make the U-turn, James had already driven back to the starting point!


    James won!


    And he won with an overwhelming advantage! S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Paul had just made the U-turn when he saw James already at the finish line, and he was nearly in despair!


    What the hell was going on?!


    How could a BMW 520 outperform a BMW 540 by such a margin?


    No way! That bastard must have modified his car!


    Damn it! Using a modified car to trick me? Damn it!


    He gritted his teeth and drove back to the crowd, where James was already celebrating with Mary.


    The surrounding classmates were all dumbfounded, still unable to understand why James''s 520 was so fast!


    Paul stopped his car, got out angrily, and roared, "Damn it, James! You used a modified car to trick me, didn''t you? This race doesn''t count! A modified car has way more power than mine, how is that fair?"


    James sneered, "Hey, Paul, you were the one who said power didn''t matter, that it was all about skill and courage. Now that you''ve lost, you''re trying to back out?"


    "I am not!" Paul showed a flash of panic, trying to argue, "You tricked me, it''s not me backing out!"


    Linda Dong scoffed, "Paul, you''re really disgusting. Don''t forget the oath you swore earlier: whoever doesn''t honor the bet, may their whole family die!"


    "Exactly!" Many classmates who were initially waiting to see James make a fool of himself were now displeased with Paul. It was clear he couldn''t take a loss. He had started this whole thing, and now he didn''t dare to honor it.


    Someone spoke up, "Paul, this is really disappointing. Everyone witnessed you challenging James and saying power didn''t matter, and that you''d honor the bet no matter what. Now you''re backing out, are you really willing to let your whole family die just to avoid the bet?"


    "Yeah!" A girl chimed in, "Paul, we all thought you were a man of your word, but it turns out you''re just a petty person who goes back on his word!"


    Someone else added, "Now I see what kind of person Paul really is! He''s just a double standards dog! If James had lost, Paul wouldn''t have let him off easily! Now that he''s lost, he''s acting all shameless. What trash!"


    Paul''s face turned red and white with anger.


    To be honest, he had just bought this car less than a month ago, spending over seventy thousand dollars.


    If he really set off the thirty thousand firecrackers inside, the car would be ruined!


    This was his beloved car! He wouldn''t even tolerate a small scratch or speck of dust on it, how could he bear to set off firecrackers inside?


    But with so many classmates watching, he had clearly lost their respect. If he continued to back out, none of them would want to associate with him in the future.


    They might even spread rumors about how he lost a bet and didn''t honor it, despite swearing on his family''s life.


    Thinking about this, he wavered.


    If he didn''t set off the firecrackers, his reputation would be ruined!


    At this moment, James suddenly spoke, "Paul, we''re all classmates, just having some fun. If you can''t bear to set off the firecrackers, then don''t."


    Paul instantly breathed a sigh of relief.


    But the surrounding classmates immediately started murmuring, "Wow! James is really magnanimous. Look at Paul, how embarrassing!"


    "Exactly! James saw that Paul couldn''t take the loss and gave him a way out!"


    Paul''s pride suddenly exploded, and he cursed, "Who the hell said I can''t take the loss? Where are the firecrackers? Give them to me! If I can bet, I can lose!"


    James''s lips curled into a sly smile...

 Chapter 38 – All done!

    Paul Wang had lost his mind at this moment.


    He couldn''t stand being overshadowed by that loser James Ye in front of his classmates.


    So, with a determined heart, he took the firecrackers from Michael Wang''s hand and threw them directly into his car.


    Then, he picked up a lighter, grabbed the fuse of the firecrackers, and said coldly, "Watch closely! I''m not someone who can''t afford to lose! And I don''t need James Ye''s pity!"


    With that, he immediately lit the lighter! S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The firecrackers ignited instantly, exploding inside the car with a series of loud bangs!


    At first, you could see the flames inside the car, but soon it was filled with thick white smoke. The continuous explosions of the firecrackers made Paul''s heart bleed, but his classmates watching the scene were thrilled.


    Many classmates had already taken out their phones to record the event, planning to upload the entire process to short video platforms later, letting netizens witness this rare spectacle.


    The thirty thousand firecrackers exploded continuously, quickly destroying the seats of the BMW 540. The seats were filled with a lot of sponge, which are highly flammable materials. With the firecrackers'' gunpowder as an accelerant, open flames quickly ignited.


    No one expected the firecrackers to set the car on fire, and with the white smoke filling the interior, it was impossible to see the flames.


    However, when the firecrackers were almost done exploding and the smoke began to clear, the flames inside suddenly burst out, engulfing the entire car in a sea of fire!


    The classmates at the scene screamed in shock, and Paul Wang shouted in panic, "Damn it, put out the fire! Hurry, put out the fire!"


    He had thought that the firecrackers would at most damage the seats and the interior, and he could spend a few tens of thousands to restore the car to its original state.


    But he never expected the firecrackers to set the car on fire!


    He shouted for help, but no one could put out the fire in the car with their bare hands. He hurriedly dialed 119 and then stood there in despair, watching his beloved car engulfed in flames.


    By the time the fire truck arrived, the BMW 540 was burned down to its frame.


    From the frame, you couldn''t even tell it was once a BMW.


    Paul Wang sat on the ground, despairingly watching his beloved BMW turn to ashes, his heart filled with pain.


    If he had known this would happen, he would never have provoked James Ye or challenged him.


    Now, not only had he lost face, but he had also lost his car...


    Michael Wang''s face showed no expression, but he found it quite amusing and secretly gave James Ye a thumbs-up.


    Then, he said to Paul Wang, "Paul, don''t be too upset. It''s about time. Why don''t we go inside and eat?"


    Paul Wang wanted to find an excuse to leave, but on second thought, that would be letting James Ye off too easily!


    No matter what, his car was ruined because of James Ye, so he had to get back at him!


    So, he stood up and pretended to be calm, saying, "What''s there to be upset about? A bet is a bet."


    Several classmates who were trying to bootlick him quickly chimed in, "Paul is so rich, what''s a BMW?"


    For the full version, visit [ ].


    "Exactly! To Paul, it''s just a regular car!"


    Everyone knew Paul Wang cared about his face, so they didn''t mention the incident anymore and followed Michael Wang inside to prepare for the opening celebration.


    ...


    Inside the restaurant, several tables were already set up in the hall, and a small stage at the front had banners celebrating the class reunion and the restaurant''s opening.


    Many classmates had already given their gifts. James Ye also took the ancient painting he had bought and walked up to Michael Wang, saying, "Congratulations, Michael. This is a little something from my wife and me for your opening."


    Mary Xiao also smiled and said, "Congratulations, Michael. Wishing you great prosperity!"


    "Thank you, thank you," Michael Wang quickly thanked them, then leaned close to James Ye''s ear and whispered with a mischievous grin, "I see you and the school beauty are quite close. Not like the rumors at all! When are you planning to have kids?"


    Mary Xiao overheard their whispering and blushed. James Ye smiled and said, "Stop being so nosy. When the time comes, you''ll definitely be invited, and you won''t miss out on the red envelope!"


    "Of course, of course!" Michael Wang nodded repeatedly, "I''ll definitely give a big red envelope for the baby!"


    At this moment, a woman with heavy makeup and ordinary looks walked up to Michael Wang and asked, "Michael, who are these two?"


    "This is my college buddy, my best friend, James Ye! And this is our school beauty, Mary Xiao, now James''s wife."


    After introducing the two, Michael Wang introduced the woman beside him, "This is my fianc¨¦e, Susan Liu."


    "What? He''s the one who..."


    Susan Liu blurted out but quickly realized her mistake and corrected herself with a smile, "I''ve heard Michael mention you two a lot. You really are a perfect match!"


    James Ye pretended not to hear, handed the ancient painting to Susan Liu, and said, "This is a little something from us."


    Susan Liu smiled and said, "Oh, you didn''t have to bring a gift!"


    But she quickly took the gift box.


    James Ye said, "You two go ahead and take care of things. We''ll find a place to sit."


    "Alright," Michael Wang apologized, "Sorry, James, there are a lot of classmates to greet."


    As James Ye and Mary Xiao walked away, Susan Liu quickly opened the gift box and found a painting scroll inside. She frowned and asked, "What did your classmate give?"


    Michael Wang said, "Can''t you see? It''s a painting!"


    "Hmph," Susan Liu pursed her lips in disdain, opened the scroll, and glanced at it, "What a piece of junk, old and worn out. I bet it''s worth a couple of hundred at most."


    Michael Wang said seriously, "It''s not about the money. It''s the thought that counts."


    Susan Liu said, "Oh, please. I''m telling you, don''t associate with such classmates in the future. The gift they brought isn''t even worth the cost of their meal!"


    Michael Wang''s face darkened, "Susan Liu, are you really that materialistic?"


    Susan Liu immediately got angry, "How can you say that, Michael Wang? Materialistic? If I were materialistic, would I be with a poor guy like you? Don''t forget, most of the money for this restaurant came from my dad!"


    Michael Wang looked a bit embarrassed and was at a loss for words.


    At this moment, Paul Wang walked over. He had recovered quite a bit from the car-burning incident and was back to his arrogant self.


    He handed over a thick red envelope and said indifferently, "Michael, I didn''t know what to get you for your restaurant opening, so I just gave you a big red envelope."


    Susan Liu quickly thanked him and took the envelope. Feeling its thickness, she knew it contained at least ten thousand yuan. She immediately said ingratiatingly, "Thank you so much!"


    Paul Wang waved his hand and asked her, "I saw James Ye also brought a gift. What did he give?"


    Susan Liu snorted and said, "A painting, probably from some second-hand market. I bet it''s worth a couple of hundred at most."


    Paul Wang sneered, "A loser will always be a loser!"

 Chapter 39 – Love to show off too much

    Support us at .


    James Ye and Mary Xiao, along with Linda Dong, took their seats. Paul Wang followed and sat next to Linda.


    As soon as he sat down, he smiled and asked Linda, "Linda, I heard you''re working at Dihao Group now?"


    Linda nodded, "I just started."


    Paul laughed, "What a coincidence! My dad is a deputy general manager at Dihao Group. I''ll ask him to look after you."


    Several people at the table exclaimed, "Paul, your dad is a deputy general manager at Dihao Group?"


    "Yes," Paul nodded, "He got promoted last year."


    Someone quickly complimented, "A deputy general manager must earn millions a year, right? No wonder your family is so wealthy!"


    Paul smiled, "A few million is just his salary. My dad has a lot of power and other sources of income. Dihao Group is currently working on a hotel project. He''ll make at least ten to twenty million from it."


    A male classmate sitting across from him eagerly asked, "Paul, I also want to join Dihao Group. I''ve submitted my resume several times but haven''t heard back. Could you ask your dad to recommend me internally?"


    Paul nodded and said readily, "Sure, send me your resume on WeChat, and I''ll mention it to him."


    James frowned. He didn''t know that Paul''s dad was a high-ranking executive at Dihao Group.


    This was interesting. He decided to send a text to Margaret Wang later, asking her to fire Paul''s dad.


    So he deliberately asked, "Paul, if your dad is so capable at Dihao Group, why didn''t he get you in?"


    Paul sneered, "What do you know? There''s no point in me joining Dihao Group. Our father-son relationship can''t be hidden, and I''d be watched all the time."


    He added proudly, "So I didn''t even consider Dihao Group. I started a construction materials company. I''ll collaborate with Dihao Group through my dad and get their supply orders."


    "Wow!" someone exclaimed, "You''ll make a fortune!"


    Paul chuckled, "Not bad. I should make at least ten million a year."


    Then he looked at James and asked, "James, what do you do for work now? Are you still doing house chores after becoming a live-in son-in-law?"


    Everyone at the table laughed.


    James replied calmly, "Besides doing laundry and cooking, I also drive my wife to work, give her massages, and enjoy life."


    Paul was furious. This bastard looked so self-assured, his skin was really thick!


    Suppressing his anger, he gritted his teeth and said, "James, I didn''t expect you to be so shameless about being a gigolo!"


    "Why not?" James shamelessly replied, "I didn''t steal or rob. I live off my skills. Why shouldn''t I be at ease?"


    The classmates were stunned.


    They had seen shameless people before, but never someone this shameless!


    The key was, they were all secretly envious!


    After all, Mary Xiao was incredibly beautiful. Being able to live off such a goddess was something many dreamed of!


    Envy, jealousy, and hate!


    If they had the chance to serve someone like Mary Xiao, who cared about being a live-in son-in-law? That would still be winning at life!


    Paul was almost choked with anger.


    At this moment, Michael Wang''s wife, Susan Liu, suddenly took the stage.


    With a smile, she thanked everyone for coming and said, "Thank you all for the many gifts. Michael and I are very touched. To show our gratitude, we''ll announce the details of the gifts. Thank you again!" sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Since it was an opening ceremony, announcing the gifts was a necessary part.


    Michael didn''t want to do this, but he didn''t have much say and had to let Susan have her way.


    Many classmates weren''t surprised, as people have a tendency to compare and show off. They could see what everyone gave and judge how well their old classmates were doing in society.


    Susan started calling out names.


    "Thank you, Jack Zhang, for the 1,000 yuan red envelope!"


    "Thank you, Donna Wang, for the pair of gold ingots!"


    "Thank you, Carol Xu, for the jade Brave Troops!"


    "Thank you, Paul Wang, for the 10,000 yuan red envelope!"


    The previous gifts, whether red envelopes or items, were worth around 1,000 yuan each. Suddenly, Paul gave a 10,000 yuan red envelope, shocking everyone.


    It was just an opening ceremony, and he casually gave a 10,000 yuan red envelope. That was too generous!


    Many people looked at Paul in amazement, praising his generosity.


    Paul was also very proud, feeling that he had easily outshone his classmates.


    Then Susan said, "Thank you, James Ye and Mary Xiao, for the old painting!"


    Everyone burst into laughter!


    An old painting? Is it even worth 100 yuan?


    These two are too stingy! Michael Wang''s restaurant opening, with such a lavish banquet, costs hundreds per person. They come to eat and only give an old painting? Aren''t they afraid of being laughed at?


    Paul sneered, "James, you can afford a BMW 520 and modifications, but for an old classmate''s restaurant opening, you only give a piece of junk?"


    James smiled faintly, "You don''t know its origin, so why call it junk?"


    Paul mocked, "Don''t think I don''t know your trick. You bought a fake antique to pretend it''s valuable, so people can''t tell its worth!"


    He pressed on, "Be honest, how much did you pay for that old painting? A hundred or eighty?"


    James smiled, "That painting is worth more than everything everyone here has given combined!"


    "Hahaha!" Paul laughed, "You''re really good at bragging! I gave 10,000 yuan, and there are over twenty classmates here. Even if each gave 1,000, that''s over 20,000. Are you saying your painting is worth more than 30,000?"


    James smiled, "You underestimated."


    "Haha!"


    The whole class laughed.


    They all thought James was too fond of showing off!


    Giving a random item and claiming it''s worth tens of thousands? Who are you fooling?


    Susan on stage also looked down on him and asked curiously, "James, whose painting did you give? Is it worth tens of thousands?"


    James replied calmly, "A painter from the Qing Dynasty, not very famous."


    Susan laughed, "What a coincidence! My dad is an antique appraiser, very authoritative. His name is Jeffrey Liu. Anyone familiar with antiques should know him, right?"


    Linda exclaimed, "Jeffrey Liu? The antique expert Jeffrey Liu? I remember him from TV! He''s your dad?"


    Susan smiled, "Yes, he''s my dad. He''s upstairs now. Should I ask him to come down and appraise James'' painting?"


    Paul stood up and said loudly, "Then please ask Mr. Liu to come down and appraise it. If James'' painting is worth more than all the gifts today, I''ll eat this table!"

 Chapter 40 – Be slapped in the face again

    As soon as they heard that Susan Liu''s father was an antique appraiser, the classmates present all cast disdainful yet sympathetic glances at James Ye.


    They felt James was really unlucky!


    Trying to show off, only to run into an expert in the field¡ªwasn''t this just asking for trouble?


    If Susan''s father, Jeffrey Liu, came down later, wouldn''t James be utterly humiliated?


    Mary Xiao also felt a bit embarrassed and whispered to James, "James, with so many classmates watching, don''t be so stubborn. Otherwise, it''ll be really embarrassing!"


    Before coming here, James had mentioned buying a painting, but he said it wasn''t worth much. Now he claimed it was worth tens of thousands. Mary was a bit uncertain, thinking James might be lying for the sake of face.


    But James didn''t care at all and said, "Since none of you believe me, let''s have a professional appraise it."


    He continued, "By the way, don''t forget, Paul Wang stubbornly swore an oath earlier. This time, he promised to eat the table."


    Thinking about his car being burned earlier, Paul gritted his teeth and cursed, "James, fuck you! You tricked me with that race! I already admitted defeat! This time, I''ll admit defeat again! If that painting you gave is really worth tens of thousands, I''ll eat the table right here! If it''s not, will you eat it?"


    James nodded and said, "Sure, if it''s not worth it, I''ll eat it too."


    Although the painting wasn''t a famous piece, it was indeed a work by Qing Dynasty painter Huang Shen. Moreover, the antique shop was a national chain with a genuine product guarantee and a tenfold compensation policy for fakes, so the painting couldn''t possibly be fake.


    Mary wanted to stop James, but before she could react, he had already agreed. Helpless, she could only sigh quietly.


    Linda Dong was also a bit surprised. How could James be so confident?


    Actually, if you looked closely, this guy was quite mysterious. That day at Tianxiang Mansion, even the famous Lord Hong was nodding and bowing to him. Why was that? She still hadn''t figured it out.


    But she was sure that James definitely had some secrets!


    Paul felt he finally had a chance to turn the tables and immediately said, "Alright, everyone here will witness this. Let''s have Susan ask her father to come down and appraise it for us!"


    In front of everyone, Susan directly dialed her phone and said, "Dad, can you come down for a moment? Michael''s classmate brought a painting and wants you to appraise it."


    A minute later, an elderly man slowly descended the stairs from the second floor.


    This was Jeffrey Liu, a famous antique appraiser in Jinling.


    Today was the opening celebration of Jeffrey''s daughter''s and future son-in-law''s restaurant. He had invited an old friend for a small gathering in an upstairs private room. Hearing that there was an antique painting needing appraisal, his professional habit kicked in, and he hurried down to take a look.


    Jeffrey stepped onto the stage, and Susan quickly handed him the gift box containing the painting, saying, "Dad, please appraise this painting. Someone said it''s worth tens of thousands!"


    As she spoke, she glanced at James with disdain.


    A gigolo giving a painting worth tens of thousands¡ªwho would believe that?


    It was obvious the painting must be fake!


    Everyone else thought the same.


    No one believed James could really give a painting worth tens of thousands.


    Jeffrey took the gift box and, under everyone''s watchful eyes, carefully took out the scroll and opened it.


    The painting was somewhat yellowed with age and looked quite unimpressive. Many classmates who judged by appearances immediately spoke up, "Oh, it doesn''t look like anything valuable!"


    "Yeah, I think it''s worth fifty bucks at most."


    "Probably not even worth as much as the box. That box might be worth seventy or eighty bucks!"


    Jeffrey carefully studied the painting. After a few minutes, he smiled and asked, "Did Michael''s classmate give this painting?"


    "Yes," Susan said, "they were good buddies in college!"


    As she said this, Susan thought to herself, James, you''re good buddies with Michael, yet you give a piece of junk worth less than a hundred bucks. Just wait for my dad to expose you in front of everyone!


    But to everyone''s surprise, Jeffrey sighed, "It seems they really are good buddies! Only a true friend would give such a valuable gift."


    Everyone was stunned!


    What was going on? Valuable? This piece of junk valuable?


    Paul thought, "Valuable my ass! I could buy a fake painting from the antique market, piss on it to make it look old, and it would look more real than this!"


    At this moment, Jeffrey said seriously, "This is an authentic work by Qing Dynasty painter Huang Shen. Although Huang Shen isn''t extremely famous, he is one of the notable painters, one of the Eight Eccentrics of Yangzhou!"


    He continued, "I estimate this painting''s market value to be around two hundred thousand."


    "Two hundred thousand?!" Susan was dumbfounded. She thought the painting wasn''t worth a hundred bucks. Who could have imagined it was worth two hundred thousand!


    Michael was also shocked and blurted out, "Wow! James, how could you give me such an expensive gift? This is too much..."


    James calmly said, "Michael, it''s just a token of friendship. Don''t worry about its price."


    Michael was deeply moved. He never expected his good buddy from college to be so generous!


    Paul was completely bewildered.


    What was going on? This piece of junk was worth two hundred thousand?


    Looking like that, worth two hundred thousand? Fuck, this is a scam!


    The classmates were also stunned.


    This time, no one dared to look down on James anymore! sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After all, he was someone who casually gave a gift worth two hundred thousand!


    Everyone was envious of Michael!


    So impressive! Receiving such an expensive gift at the opening, what a profit!


    At this moment, Susan was also shocked and immediately changed her opinion of James.


    She knew very well her father''s level of expertise. If he said the painting was worth two hundred thousand, then it must be worth that much!


    Oh my God! Michael''s classmate actually gave such an expensive gift. This kind of generosity was extraordinary!


    Thinking this, she looked at James with stars in her eyes.


    Mary Xiao asked in confusion, "James, how much did you actually pay for this painting?"


    James smiled and whispered, "Actually, it didn''t cost much. The seller was an acquaintance who got it cheaply, so he sold it to me at a low price."


    Mary couldn''t help but say, "A painting worth over two hundred thousand sold to you for a few thousand? Is there really such a good deal?"


    This novel is available on ".


    James said lightly, "Many people don''t care that much about money. I''m the same. Otherwise, I wouldn''t have given this painting to Michael."


    Mary nodded slightly. James was right. If someone cared a lot about money, they wouldn''t give away something so valuable. It seemed her husband, though not very successful, had an extraordinary spirit!


    At this moment, James stood up, looked at the panicked Paul, and asked with a smile, "Paul, how are you going to eat this table? Are you going to bite it directly, or do you want a knife to chop it into pieces and eat it bit by bit?"

 Chapter 41 – Dont give me any face at all

    Paul Wang felt like he wanted to die!


    Damn it!


    What the hell is going on?


    Did I forget to check the almanac before leaving the house today?


    How did I end up getting slapped in the face by this loser James Ye one after another?


    I would never have guessed that the painting was real and worth over two hundred thousand!


    But I had already boasted so loudly, what now? Am I really supposed to eat the table?


    That''s impossible!


    If the car burns, it burns, I can buy another one. But how could anyone eat a table?


    If I really ate it, wouldn''t I die?


    At this moment, other classmates started to tease him: "Oh, Paul, you said you''d eat the table. Are you going to back out now?"


    "Yeah, we''re all waiting for your performance!"


    Someone even slapped the table and said, "Paul, please start your show!"


    Paul''s face turned extremely ugly, and he blurted out, "We''re all classmates, there''s no need to kick a man when he''s down, right?"


    "Kicking a man when he''s down?" James Ye laughed and said, "You started this, we''re just urging you to keep your promise. How is that kicking a man when he''s down?"


    Paul knew he couldn''t get out of this mess today, so he could only suppress his anger and said in a muffled voice, "I was impulsive just now, I didn''t recognize Mount Tai. I apologize to James Ye and to everyone. I hope you can forgive me."


    Seeing him suddenly soften, everyone was very surprised. Was this still Paul Wang? When had he ever admitted defeat?


    But Paul had no choice.


    What to do?


    If he didn''t admit defeat, he''d have to eat the table, which was impossible.


    If he tried to weasel out, he''d definitely incur everyone''s wrath, and who knows how they''d mock him.


    So, the only way out was to admit defeat, only then could he get through this hurdle.


    Sure enough, as soon as he admitted defeat, a classmate said, "Oh, it''s not easy for Paul to admit his mistake and apologize. Besides, we wouldn''t really force him to eat the table, so let''s just let it go!"


    "Yeah, let''s let it go! Eating the table is impossible, we haven''t even had our meal yet, let''s start the feast!"


    James Ye also knew that Paul Wang couldn''t really eat the table, but now that he had admitted defeat, his goal was achieved. Let him show off, and he''d get what he deserved.


    But just a little punishment for showing off wasn''t enough, this was just the beginning, there was more to come.


    So he said, "Since Paul Wang has admitted his mistake and apologized, let''s forget about the table. Today is the grand opening of Michael''s restaurant, let''s not steal his thunder!"


    Paul Wang breathed a sigh of relief.


    But in his heart, he wished he could kill James Ye to vent his anger.


    James Ye wasn''t planning to let him off either. He sent a text message to Margaret Wang: "Which vice president in the company has a son named Paul Wang? Check it for me."


    Margaret quickly replied: "There''s a vice president named Peter Wang, his son is Paul Wang. What''s up, Chairman? Any instructions?"


    James replied: "Fire him, make him leave immediately."


    "Got it!"


    ...


    Paul Wang didn''t know that his father had just been fired by Dihao Group and was going through the termination process.


    Having barely gotten through the oath crisis, he felt a bit relieved, but he was secretly plotting to find an opportunity to take revenge on James Ye!


    More importantly, he needed to find a way to regain his dignity in front of his classmates. After being humiliated by James Ye twice in a row, how could he ever show off in front of them again?


    Just as he was wondering how to save face, a commotion erupted at the entrance of the restaurant.


    Everyone turned to look.


    A group of vicious-looking young men stormed in, each with tattoos and holding baseball bats, galvanized pipes, and other menacing objects. They looked like trouble.


    Seeing this group rush in, everyone''s face changed, especially Michael Wang and Susan Liu, whose eyes were filled with fear.


    The leader, a scar-faced man, scanned the hall and then pointed at Michael Wang with a sinister smile: "Boss, opening such a big business without giving us a heads-up, are you looking down on us?"


    Susan Liu''s face turned pale, and she forced a smile, saying, "What... what do you want?"


    Before the opening, Susan Liu had heard that there were local thugs collecting protection fees. The previous owner of this restaurant was reportedly driven out by these very hooligans, which forced him to transfer the business.


    But Susan Liu thought, in broad daylight, would these gangsters really dare to rob openly? So she bought the place at a low price, planning to run it well.


    Find the original at ".


    Unexpectedly, these gangsters showed up right on the opening day!


    The scar-faced man grinned: "Doing business here means you have to give Brother Biao his due. We don''t want much, just twenty percent of your shares. From now on, if anything happens here, we''ll take care of it."


    Then, he added coldly, "If you don''t agree, don''t blame me for being rude. You''ll have to close down today!"


    Hearing this demand, both Michael Wang and Susan Liu gasped.


    Twenty percent of the shares right off the bat!


    This was daylight robbery!


    "I''ll give you one minute to think about it."


    Paul Wang suddenly felt this was his chance to shine!


    So he stepped forward and said, "Who do you think you are?"


    The scar-faced man sneered and asked, "Who the hell are you? Why should I tell you?"


    Paul Wang snorted, "Let me tell you, my dad has connections in both the underworld and the government in Jinling! I''ll call the leaders of the development zone right now and see what they have to say!"


    The scar-faced man looked at him warily and asked, "You know the leaders of the development zone?"


    "Of course!" Paul Wang said coldly, "If you don''t want to die, you''d better get lost!"


    The scar-faced man frowned and said, "Fine, if you can find someone who can speak for you, I''ll leave this place alone. But if you can''t, don''t blame me for being rude!"


    Susan Liu said nervously, "Paul, please help us contact them, we''re counting on you!"


    Paul Wang smiled faintly and said, "Don''t worry, I''ll call the leaders of the development zone right now!"


    Dihao Group also had projects in the development zone, and it was Paul Wang''s father who was in charge. So the leaders of the development zone often interacted with his father and knew Paul Wang as well.


    Paul Wang called the top leader directly, deliberately raising his voice: "Uncle Li, why are there thugs collecting protection fees in the development zone? They''ve come to my classmate''s restaurant!"


    The other end paused and said, "Paul, what''s going on?"


    Paul Wang said, "A friend''s restaurant just opened, and some thugs are causing trouble and demanding protection fees. I wanted to ask if you, Director Li, are going to do something about it." sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The other end hesitated for a moment and said with some difficulty, "Sorry, Paul, this isn''t under my jurisdiction. I''m in a meeting now, I''ll hang up first."


    Before Paul Wang could say anything, the other end hung up.


    Paul Wang was dumbfounded.


    What was going on? Didn''t Director Li always try to curry favor with his dad, hoping to attract more investment from Dihao Group?


    Why was he giving him no face at all now?


    Paul Wang had no idea that the news of his father''s firing from Dihao Group had already spread throughout the leadership in Jinling!

 Chapter 42 – Mr. Ye, I was wrong!

    Paul Wang was confused and furious. With so many classmates watching, he had no choice but to grit his teeth and seek other connections.


    Paul made another call to the second-in-command of the development zone. This person had a good relationship with his father.


    As soon as the call connected, Paul said, "Mr. Chen, it''s me, Paul Wang. I ran into some trouble in the development zone..." Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He explained the situation.


    The other party awkwardly replied, "Paul, the other side belongs to Brother Biao, who works for Lord Hong. It''s best if you don''t get involved."


    Paul asked, "Aren''t you going to do something about it?"


    The other party said, "You should know Lord Hong''s status."


    Paul started to panic. "Can''t you at least put in a good word for me?"


    The other party laughed awkwardly, "I''m afraid I can''t help you with this. Sorry."


    Paul got angry, "Mr. Chen, I remember you wanted Dihao Group to donate some supplies to you, right? Don''t you want them anymore?"


    The other party dropped the pretense and coldly said, "Paul Wang, your father has already been fired by Dihao Group. Didn''t you know?"


    "Fired? When did that happen?"


    "Half an hour ago!"


    The other party continued, "You should get your facts straight first."


    Then he hung up the phone.


    The scar-faced man saw Paul''s stunned expression and mocked, "What? Can''t find anyone to help?"


    Just as Paul was about to speak, the scar-faced man slapped him, causing Paul to stumble and knock over several tables and chairs.


    The crowd gasped!


    Everyone turned pale, but no one dared to stop the scar-faced man.


    "You dare hit me?"


    Paul covered his face, his fair skin showing deep anger.


    "So what if I hit you?"


    The scar-faced man sneered and kicked Paul in the stomach, knocking him to the ground and beating him mercilessly.


    Paul screamed in pain, but no one could help him.


    In no time, Paul was beaten to a pulp, his face covered in blood, looking terrifying.


    Paul was terrified, crying and begging, "Big brother, I was wrong! Please stop hitting me!"


    "Wrong?" The scar-faced man snorted, "You tried to show off to me. If I don''t beat you to death, how will I maintain my reputation?"


    He then ordered his men, "Damn it, beat him hard!"


    A group of men immediately rushed up and started punching and kicking Paul.


    Some even used baseball bats to hit him, making the scene unbearable to watch.


    Seeing Paul beaten half to death, the scar-faced man walked up to Michael Wang and coldly threatened, "Your friend tried to show off to me. The original 20% is now 40%! If you don''t agree, his fate will be yours!"


    Michael was terrified, but giving up 40% of his shares meant he would be working for these thugs.


    So he mustered up his courage and said, "If you want 40%, you might as well kill me!"


    The scar-faced man frowned and coldly said, "Alright! I''ll grant your wish!"


    He then pulled out a shiny knife from his pocket.


    Everyone was scared stiff, and the female classmates even screamed.


    James Ye saw the scar-faced man about to attack Michael and immediately shouted, "Put the knife down!"


    The scar-faced man turned and cursed, "Who the fuck wants to die?"


    When he turned and saw James, his eyes first showed confusion, then deep fear. He immediately dropped to his knees!


    Before anyone could react, the scar-faced man had already thrown away the knife and started slapping himself, apologizing, "Mr. Ye, I''m sorry! I didn''t recognize you were here!"


    James was slightly stunned and looked at the scar-faced man, "You know me?"


    The scar-faced man nodded repeatedly, "Mr. Ye, I''m Brother Biao''s subordinate. I saw you at Tianxiang Mansion..."


    James suddenly understood.


    So that''s how it was.


    The person who caused trouble for Daniel Wang and Robert Xiao at Tianxiang Mansion was Lord Hong''s subordinate, named Biao. This scar-faced man was Biao''s underling.


    No wonder he was so scared of me.


    It can be hard to make great work when its stolen from ".


    Even Lord Hong trembles at the sight of me, let alone his subordinate''s subordinate...


    The classmates were all stunned! Susan Liu was also in shock, as if in a dream.


    No one understood why a fierce gangster, who even dared to hit Paul Wang, would kneel to James, a live-in son-in-law, and show such fear?


    Mary Xiao was also dumbfounded and asked James, "What''s going on? Do you know him?"


    James, afraid she might misunderstand his connection to the underworld, quickly said, "I don''t know him!"


    The scar-faced man quickly added, "No, no, I don''t know Mr. Ye. Mr. Ye doesn''t know me either. I''ve just always admired Mr. Ye..."


    What a bootlicker...


    Admire James?


    Everyone found it hard to accept this reality; it was too surreal!


    The scar-faced man quickly said to Michael, "You''re Mr. Ye''s friend, so from now on, your restaurant is under my protection. No protection fees! I''ll handle any trouble for you!"


    This statement shocked everyone!


    Susan Liu was so thrilled she almost cried.


    The contrast was too dramatic!


    Because of James, they saved 40% of the shares. More importantly, the scar-faced man wanted to bootlick James so much that he offered to protect their restaurant for free!


    Now they could run their business without any worries!


    James had practically saved their lives!


    Michael was also extremely grateful and sincerely said, "James, thank you so much for this."


    James smiled, "No need to thank me. We''re friends, aren''t we?"


    The scar-faced man, looking at the unconscious Paul Wang, nervously said, "I''m sorry, Mr. Ye, I beat up your friend..."


    James calmly said, "It''s fine. He''s not my friend, just an acquaintance, and we don''t have much of a relationship."


    He then added, "Take him to the hospital. Don''t ruin the opening ceremony."


    The scar-faced man quickly nodded, "We''ll take him to the hospital right away! Mr. Ye, please continue. We won''t disturb you!"


    He then hurriedly called his men to carry the unconscious Paul Wang and fled in a panic.


    Everyone''s view of James changed from disdain to surprise, and from surprise to awe.


    No one knew why James had such influence.


    This live-in son-in-law seemed to have suddenly become a different person!


    At the banquet, many people came to bootlick James, including Susan Liu, who had initially looked down on him.


    Susan now treated James like a deity, constantly thanking him and even offering him permanent free meals.


    James didn''t care much about it. He was just doing Michael a favor and helping him with a small problem.


    But in others'' eyes, his actions today had taken on a magical quality!


    Everyone wanted to know what had happened to this gigolo live-in son-in-law.

 Chapter 43 – Come with ill intentions

    Mary Xiao was also very curious about what happened today.


    First, why was James Ye''s BMW 520 twice as fast as Paul Wang''s BMW 540?


    Then there was the matter of James''s antique painting worth hundreds of thousands!


    And why did James know people from the underworld, who treated him with such respect?


    On the way back, James explained to her that his BMW 520 was a test drive car modified by the dealership to make it seem more powerful to potential buyers.


    Mary didn''t understand much about cars and believed him without much thought.


    As for the antique painting, it had already been explained that someone had sold it to him at a low price out of friendship, and he had given it to Michael Wang out of friendship as well.


    However, the scar-faced man was a bit tricky to explain.


    After all, the man had been extremely deferential, calling him "Mr. Ye" repeatedly, which was hard for James to explain away.


    In the end, he could only say that the scar-faced man''s boss was a relative of one of his friends, whom he had met at a gathering, and the respect shown was due to his friend''s influence.


    Mary felt something was off but knew pressing further would be futile, so she didn''t ask more questions.


    Linda Dong had been observing James closely and was increasingly convinced that he was not a simple man. She decided to pay more attention to him in the future to uncover his secrets!


    ...


    Paul Wang was reportedly in a bad state, unconscious when he was taken to the hospital.


    His father was fired by the Dihao Group and was found to have been abusing his position for personal gain. He was immediately sued by the Dihao Group''s legal department and arrested by the police.


    It could be said that Paul Wang''s family was completely finished.


    However, the Wang family wasn''t well-known in Jinling, so no one really cared about their fate.


    What everyone was truly interested in was the god-level tycoon on the short video platform and the mysterious figure who had booked the entire Hanging Gardens at the Buckingham Palace Hotel.


    Everyone was eager to find out who they were and whether they were the same person!


    Soon, the day of the wedding anniversary arrived.


    Since James had already told Mary he had a surprise for her, he insisted she change into an elegant white evening gown before they left the house.


    Mary reluctantly agreed, muttering, "It''s just dinner. Why do I have to dress so formally? Even if it''s our wedding anniversary, it doesn''t need to be this grand, does it?"


    James smiled and said, "Today is our third anniversary, so it should be special. I''ve already booked a place for dinner, and I guarantee you''ll be satisfied with tonight''s arrangements." S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He had been very secretive these past few days, not giving his wife any reason to suspect anything.


    Mary smiled gently, feeling touched.


    In the past two years, they had celebrated their anniversaries casually at home. Although it was nothing special, James, even when he had nothing, would always prepare some thoughtful little gifts to make her happy.


    However, this year, James was acting unusually mysterious, making her curious about what her live-in husband was planning.


    After a while, they changed into their outfits and took a taxi to the Buckingham Palace Hotel.


    James stepped out of the car and looked at Mary beside him with an indescribable tenderness. "Mary, tonight we''ll celebrate our third wedding anniversary here. What do you think?"


    Mary''s expression turned strange. Had James really booked a restaurant here?


    She instinctively asked, "You''re not kidding me, right?"


    James smiled and said, "Of course not!"


    He then explained, "I booked a spot here a few days ago. If you don''t believe me, we can go inside and check."


    Mary shook her head. In three years of marriage, James had never lied to her, especially not on such an important day. She said, "No need, I believe you."


    She then asked, "You didn''t book a spot in the Hanging Gardens, did you? Isn''t that place reserved for some big shot today?"


    James quickly said, "I booked a spot next to the Hanging Gardens. We can see inside from there, and maybe we''ll catch a glimpse of the big shot who reserved it. What do you think?"


    Mary laughed, "I''m not as nosy as you!"


    With that, they walked into the Buckingham Palace Hotel.


    Just as they were about to go upstairs, they heard a woman''s surprised voice, "Oh my, Mary Xiao, what are you doing here?!"


    Mary looked up and saw a young couple approaching.


    The man was dressed in an expensive suit, clearly a wealthy young master from some family. The woman was covered in designer brands, with a glamorous makeup look but a haughty expression. Her outfit was somewhat gaudy and flirtatious.


    Mary recognized the woman as her former college dorm mate, Sandra Zhao.


    Although Liqing and Mary shared a dorm, they were not classmates.


    Despite being dorm mates, Mary and Liqing didn''t have a close relationship.


    This was mainly because Liqing considered herself superior and was very jealous.


    She always felt that Mary didn''t deserve the title of campus belle and that she should have been the one.


    But in reality, Liqing was inferior to Mary in terms of looks, figure, aura, and inner qualities.


    However, Liqing had one advantage: she was very good at attracting men. It was said that she had hooked up with many wealthy men, and all her expenses during her four years in college were covered by them.


    Mary frowned but, out of courtesy, greeted her as they approached, "Liqing, long time no see. I''m here with my husband for dinner. What about you?"


    Liqing exclaimed, "What a coincidence! My husband and I are here for dinner too!"


    She then feigned curiosity and asked, "By the way, which spot did you book? A regular room, a premium room, or a luxury room?"


    Mary was clueless about James''s arrangements and could only reply honestly, "I don''t know. My husband made the reservation."


    At this point, Liqing noticed James and covered her mouth with a laugh, "Oh, this must be your live-in husband, James Ye? Back in school, he was quite famous for being a freeloader!"


    Her words were laced with mockery, making them especially harsh.


    Mary felt extremely embarrassed.


    Realizing her faux pas, Liqing quickly apologized, "Oh, I''m sorry, my bad. I tend to speak my mind. Mary, don''t take it to heart..."


    James frowned slightly. This Sandra Zhao seemed to have come with ill intentions!


    Read the most updated version of this novel and other amazing translated novels from the original source at "pawread dot com"

 Chapter 44 – Expose your old bottom

    Sandra Zhao, oblivious to Mary Xiao''s expression, proudly pulled the man beside her and introduced, "Let me introduce you, this is my husband, Johnny Hao!"


    She continued to boast, "He''s the eldest son of the Zheng family in Jinling and the heir to their billion-dollar fortune!"


    Mary Xiao nodded politely.


    James Ye''s expression, however, turned grim.


    He had brought his wife to celebrate their wedding anniversary, only to encounter this annoying person out of nowhere!


    Sandra Zhao continued to flaunt, "Oh, by the way, my husband is a platinum member here, with a lot of privileges. I guess James could only book a regular room at most, right? How about I ask him to upgrade you to a deluxe room later?"


    Mary Xiao was about to decline politely when James Ye chuckled and said, "The place I booked is quite good, so let''s skip that."


    Little did she know, he had reserved the top-floor Hanging Gardens to give his wife a grand wedding ceremony. What was there to flaunt about a mere platinum membership?


    Moreover, the entire Buckingham Palace Hotel belonged to him. If he took his wife to a room only fit for a platinum member, wouldn''t that be lowering his own status?


    At this moment, Sandra Zhao, somewhat displeased, said, "Mary, look at your live-in husband, he doesn''t know how to appreciate kindness. How do you usually manage him?"


    Saying this, she leaned her head on Johnny Hao''s shoulder, smiling, "James Ye doesn''t seem to fit in such a high-class place. Maybe he should learn some noble etiquette from my husband, who studied in the UK."


    Johnny Hao glanced at James Ye disdainfully and laughed, "Honey, don''t give me such an impossible task. Teaching Mr. Ye noble etiquette would be like climbing to the sky."


    Sandra Zhao nodded and sighed, saying to Mary Xiao, "Honestly, you should just get a divorce. Living with a poor man like James Ye for a lifetime is such a grievance for you!" S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Sandra Zhao spoke without any restraint, completely disregarding Mary Xiao''s feelings.


    Mary Xiao, unable to bear it any longer, said coldly, "Sandra Zhao, what do you mean by this? My husband is not for you to criticize."


    Sandra Zhao covered her mouth and laughed, "I didn''t think much of you in college. If your family didn''t have some money back then, how could you have been the campus belle? Now that you''ve married poorly, you won''t even let me talk about it?"


    James Ye felt very displeased upon hearing this.


    This Sandra Zhao, who was promiscuous in school, relied on her passable looks to hook up with rich men. Now, having married into a wealthy family by luck, she really thought she was a noble lady?


    And she dared to mock his wife?


    She was asking for it!


    Thinking of this, a surge of anger rose within him.


    He took out his phone and sent a text message to Charles Chen, the CEO of Buckingham Palace Hotel.


    "In three minutes, I want all the information on the daughter-in-law of the Zheng family in Jinling, Sandra Zhao!"


    Read this novel and other amazing translated novels from the original source at the "pawread dot com"


    Seeing James Ye looking down at his phone without saying a word, Sandra Zhao mocked even more, "Look at your husband, I''m mocking you, and he doesn''t even dare to speak up for you. It''s hilarious, hahaha!"


    At this moment, James Ye suddenly received a text message from Charles Chen: "Young master, the information on Sandra Zhao has been sent to you."


    James Ye looked at the long text message, then at Sandra Zhao and her husband Johnny Hao, and smiled, "I have some interesting information here. Do you want to hear it?"


    Sandra Zhao frowned and asked, "What information?"


    James Ye raised his voice, "Sandra Zhao, female, 26 years old, graduated from Jinling University."


    "During her freshman year, she had over a hundred hotel check-ins, with eight different men, including Craig Li, Edwin Ma, and Oliver Du."


    Sandra Zhao was dumbfounded, her face turning pale as she blurted out, "You''re talking nonsense! Be careful, I''ll sue you for defamation!"


    Johnny Hao, standing beside her, frowned deeply, clearly shocked.


    James Ye continued, "Oh, this is interesting. You even had a few threesomes with two men, one named Tom Dong and the other Jerry Dong, who are apparently brothers. Were you having a m¨¦nage ¨¤ trois?"


    Sandra Zhao screamed in terror, "You''re lying! You''re lying!"


    James Ye went on, "And during your sophomore year, you were kept by the vice president of Shenghua Group for three years at a monthly price of thirty thousand. During this time, you had four abortions at Jinling Maternity and Child Hospital, and the last one left you infertile."


    He then curiously asked Johnny Hao, "Mr. Zheng, if I''m not mistaken, you still don''t have any children, right?"


    Johnny Hao''s expression turned ugly, and he glared at Sandra Zhao, demanding, "What''s going on?!"


    Sandra Zhao, sweating profusely, said in a panic, "Hao, don''t listen to him. You know you were my first!"


    James Ye laughed, "Don''t worry, there''s more to come!"


    Sandra Zhao, panicking, pulled Johnny Hao, trying to drag him away, "Stop talking! Honey, let''s go, or we''ll be late for dinner!"


    Johnny Hao frowned and stood still, asking James Ye, "What else?"


    James Ye smiled, "Listen carefully. After graduating from university, Sandra Zhao had a complete plastic surgery at a cosmetic hospital. A month later, she joined the Zheng family company and deliberately scratched Johnny Hao''s Bentley to get to know him."


    He then looked up at Johnny Hao, "Am I right?"


    Johnny Hao was dumbfounded.


    He knew about these things, which meant the previous information was also true?


    Sandra Zhao''s face turned ashen, and she trembled with fear.


    She pleaded with James Ye, "James, please, don''t say anymore. I beg you!"


    James Ye sneered, "Now you know how to beg? Sorry, it''s too late!"


    He continued, "Half a month after meeting Johnny Hao, she took a business trip to Haicheng and had a hymen repair surgery at a cosmetic hospital there. After returning, she officially became Johnny Hao''s girlfriend and married him six months later."


    Sandra Zhao collapsed to the ground, unable to comprehend how James Ye could uncover all her secrets, exposing her entire past to her husband!


    Johnny Hao, furious, glared at Sandra Zhao and shouted, "So that night you lied to me, saying it was your first time, but it was actually your hundredth, thousandth, or even ten thousandth time, right?"


    Sandra Zhao hurriedly denied, "No, it''s not true. Hao, you were my first!"


    James Ye laughed, "Don''t worry, I can find her medical records for the hymen repair. You can verify it at the hospital."


    Johnny Hao grabbed Sandra Zhao by the collar and slapped her hard, "Still not telling the truth? If I find out, I''ll kick you out, and your parents and brother will move out of my villa. Your brother will also lose his job at the Zheng family company! I''ll make sure your whole family ends up on the streets!"


    Sandra Zhao broke down in tears, kneeling and begging, "Honey, don''t be angry. I was young and foolish back then. I''ve changed and have been devoted to you ever since!"


    James Ye added, "Don''t believe her. After marrying you, she still had a few farewell flings with the man who kept her. He even recorded a video for keepsake. If you want, I can find the video and send it to you for viewing!"

 Chapter 45 – The happiest woman

    Hao Zheng''s face was extremely grim, a shade of livid green.


    At this moment, he finally understood what it felt like to have a vast grassland on his head!


    Read this novel and other amazing translated novels from the original source at the ]"


    Unable to bear it any longer, he went mad, slapping Liqing Zhao repeatedly while cursing, "You filthy slut, you''ve been deceiving me all along! And you made me a cuckold! I''ll beat you to death! I''ll kill you!"


    Liqing Zhao screamed in agony, her hair disheveled, breaking down in tears.


    As Hao Zheng hit her, he yelled, "Divorce! Leave my house with nothing! Otherwise, I''ll have your parents and brother killed and dumped in the river!"


    Liqing Zhao was utterly devastated!


    She had used every trick in the book to marry into the Zheng family, hoping to be a wealthy young lady for life. But today, that dream was completely shattered!


    And it was all because of James Ye!


    She hated James Ye to the core, but at this moment, James merely sneered and said to Mary Xiao, "Honey, let them fight like dogs. Let''s go."


    With that, he took Mary Xiao''s hand and walked towards the elevator.


    Mary Xiao''s beautiful eyes trembled, shocked and unable to believe how James Ye knew so much about Liqing Zhao''s dark past.


    Thinking about it, she couldn''t help but look at James and ask incredulously, "Did you have someone investigate all those things?"


    "How could that be? Do I look like I have that kind of ability?" James laughed it off and said, "An old classmate of mine was deeply hurt by Liqing Zhao. He''s been digging up dirt on her for years, and it just came in handy now."


    As he spoke, James had already led her into the elevator.


    Once inside, James pressed the button for the top floor. Mary Xiao hurriedly asked, "James, did you press the wrong floor? Isn''t the top floor the Hanging Gardens?"


    James smiled slightly, "Honey, that''s exactly where we''re going¡ªthe top floor''s Hanging Gardens!"


    Mary Xiao was thunderstruck!


    The Hanging Gardens? How could that be possible?!


    Everyone in Jinling knew that the Hanging Gardens had been booked by a mysterious person tonight.


    Even if James had incredible abilities, it would be impossible to book a spot in the Hanging Gardens to celebrate their third wedding anniversary!


    But the next moment, a bold thought suddenly popped into Mary Xiao''s mind: Could it be... that James is the mysterious man who booked the entire Hanging Gardens?!


    Although it sounded like a fairy tale, at this moment, was there any other possible explanation?


    Thinking of this, Mary Xiao couldn''t help but ask, "James, did you book the Hanging Gardens?"


    James smiled slightly and said, "Yes, I wanted to give you the biggest surprise today! A grand wedding that no one can replicate!"


    "What?"


    Mary Xiao felt her mind go blank!


    If this was truly the grand surprise James had prepared for her...


    Then tonight, wouldn''t she be the happiest woman in all of Jinling?


    Thinking of this, Mary Xiao''s breathing became rapid, and she almost lost the ability to think.


    As her inner world surged with emotions, the elevator arrived at the top floor of the Buckingham Palace Hotel.


    A service staff member at the door bowed slightly and said with a smile, "Miss Xiao, on behalf of the Buckingham Palace Hotel, I extend our heartfelt congratulations to you and Mr. Ye on your wedding anniversary tonight."


    James waved his hand and said to her, "You all can leave now."


    Immediately, all the staff left the scene.


    The entire Hanging Gardens was now a private world for just James and Mary Xiao.


    Mary Xiao felt like she was in a dream.


    At this moment, what appeared before her eyes was a grand space of luxurious style.


    The crystal chandelier on the ceiling cast a clear light, making the entire Hanging Gardens elegant and serene.


    Soft piano music filled the air, slowly occupying one''s heart, making it hard to feel tense or angry.


    Fresh, high-end flowers flown in from abroad emitted a faint fragrance, subtly changing one''s mood, bringing an indescribable sense of peace and beauty.


    As the piano music changed, the most classic wedding march, "A Midsummer Night''s Dream," suddenly played, its melodious sound lingering in the air.


    While Mary Xiao was dazzled by the beautiful scenery, James had already changed into a well-fitting suit and was walking towards her with a bouquet of flowers.


    With each step he took, the crystal glass floor beneath him rippled with a series of beautiful, vibrant red hearts, as if they were dancing to the music, creating a powerful visual impact.


    At this moment, countless people outside the Hanging Gardens looked through the crystal glass walls and floor, yearning to see what was happening inside.


    The only regret was that all the glass in the Hanging Gardens had been treated to be somewhat blurry. People could see a young couple inside, surrounded by flowers and beauty, and the red hearts constantly emerging from the floor.


    Countless women exclaimed, "This is so romantic! I''ve never seen such a romantic scene in my life..."


    "If I were that woman, I''d be willing to die right now!"


    "Oh my god! That man''s silhouette looks like a mysterious tycoon!"


    "Too bad we can''t see their faces! It''s torture!"


    The scenes inside the Hanging Gardens completely captivated the onlookers outside, leaving them utterly immersed.


    At this moment, tens of thousands of people were filled with longing and extreme envy, their eyes full of blessings as they watched this grand garden seemingly suspended in the air.


    Countless women were moved to tears, their hearts filled with uncontrollable envy, wishing they were the bride in this grand wedding tonight.


    Even though they couldn''t clearly see the faces of the couple tonight, they could feel how happy the bride was.


    James walked step by step to her, pointing to the night view of Jinling outside the floor-to-ceiling windows, and said with deep affection, "Mary, I love you! I couldn''t give you a wedding back then, but I hope you like this wedding just for the two of us!"


    Mary Xiao came back to her senses, covering her mouth, crying like a pear blossom bathed in rain, tears falling like pearls, continuously sliding down her pretty face.


    Hearing these words, Mary Xiao could no longer hold back her emotions. She took a step forward and threw herself into James''s arms, crying, "I love it! I really love it! Thank you, James! Thank you!"


    With that, Mary Xiao was sobbing uncontrollably. At this moment, she felt that all the grievances she had suffered in the past three years were worth it!


    No matter how James managed to pull this off, at least now, she was incredibly happy, and tonight, she was the happiest woman in all of Jinling! S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 46 – The whole city is in an uproar

    Through the hazy frosted crystal glass, the entire city of Jinling witnessed this incredibly grand wedding.


    Countless people, while filled with extreme envy, also speculated in their hearts about who this mysterious couple getting married in the Hanging Gardens could be. S~ea??h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Moreover, the two were incredibly secretive. Their wedding had no guests, no friends or family, not even a single witness!


    On the crystal stage, James Ye held Mary Xiao''s hand and took out a jade necklace he had prepared long ago.


    "Mary, this is my wedding anniversary gift to you. I hope you like it!"


    Mary Xiao looked at the sparkling jade necklace and exclaimed, "This... this wouldn''t happen to be the treasure of Emerald Pavilion, would it? James, where did you get this?"


    As she spoke, Mary Xiao was incredibly shocked.


    Could it be that James is the god-level tycoon from the video?


    Otherwise, how could this jade necklace be in his hands?


    But...


    But that doesn''t make sense!


    She knew James better than anyone. How could he possibly be a god-level tycoon?


    He had nothing to do with the word "tycoon"!


    At this moment, James noticed Mary Xiao''s astonishment and felt an impulse to tell her his true identity, to tell her that he was a descendant of the Ye Family in Yanjing and the heir to a trillion-dollar fortune.


    However, the next moment, he suddenly thought of something very serious.


    He had no idea what the current situation of the Ye Family was!


    From his childhood memories, he had seen his uncles, which meant that his father wasn''t the only one in the previous generation of the Ye Family.


    Since his father wasn''t the only one, his uncles must also have offspring, and these people would inevitably see him as a thorn in their side.


    If he revealed his identity without understanding everything and without having the ability to protect himself and Mary Xiao, it might bring deadly trouble to Mary Xiao!


    The methods of fighting for wealth in wealthy families were extremely ruthless, and he didn''t want his beloved wife to be put in danger because of his recklessness.


    Thinking of this, he lied on purpose, "This necklace looks exactly like the treasure of Emerald Pavilion, but I had it custom-made. Although it uses pretty good jade, it''s still far from the real one. It only cost me a few tens of thousands."


    Then, James nervously asked Mary Xiao, "Mary, you don''t mind, do you?"


    Mary Xiao breathed a sigh of relief!


    That explanation made much more sense.


    She quickly smiled and said, "Silly, how could I mind! You''ve done so much for me, I''m already very touched!"


    James also breathed a sigh of relief and hurriedly put the jade necklace on Mary Xiao himself.


    He looked at Mary Xiao sincerely and said emotionally, "Mary, you''ve suffered a lot in the three years since you married me, but from today on, I promise you that no one can bully you anymore!"


    Mary Xiao nodded emotionally. At this moment, she realized that her husband was finally going to stand tall!


    ...


    After the wedding, James took Mary Xiao and quietly left the Hanging Gardens through the exclusive elevator.


    Countless onlookers outside felt a sense of loss.


    The bride and groom just left?


    They came mysteriously, fed the world a mouthful of dog food, and then left?


    For a while, the whole city was discussing this unprecedented grand wedding.


    However, no one knew who the bride and groom were.


    James drove the modified BMW 520, carrying his wife Mary Xiao back home.


    On the way, Mary Xiao was still immersed in immense happiness.


    She couldn''t help but ask James, "How did you book the Hanging Gardens? It seems like it''s never been available for private events."


    James smiled slightly and said, "To be honest, a high-ranking executive at Buckingham Palace is an old friend of mine from the orphanage. We went through tough times together, and I would share even a steamed bun with him. So when I asked him for help this time, he was very willing."


    Mary Xiao nodded lightly, "I see, why haven''t you mentioned him before?"


    James said, "I have too many friends from the orphanage. I could talk about them for days. I thought you wouldn''t be interested, so I never brought it up."


    Mary Xiao said seriously, "You''re my husband. I''m naturally very interested in your past and want to know more about it."


    James smiled and said, "Then I''ll tell you more in the future!"


    "Okay!"


    When they got back to the neighborhood, James parked the car downstairs.


    As soon as they got out of the car, they ran into Mary Xiao''s father and mother walking back.


    Mary Xiao''s mother immediately saw them and exclaimed, "Mary, where did this BMW come from?"


    Her father also looked at the car with bright eyes!


    "Wow! A BMW! Mary, did you buy it? That''s quite a splurge!"


    Mary Xiao quickly said, "Dad, Mom, I didn''t buy the car. James did."


    "James?" Her father frowned and asked, "James, where did you get the money to buy this car? Did you use Mary''s money?"


    James quickly said, "No, Dad, I bought it with my own savings..."


    Mary Xiao''s mother circled the car with her father, then sneered, "Hmph! You eat our food and live in our house, but you save up to buy a BMW without thinking of us. What a white-eyed wolf!"


    Mary Xiao quickly said, "Mom, don''t say that about James..."


    Her father said enviously, "Hmph, buying a BMW 520. With James''s level, does he deserve such a good car? Even a BMW 3 Series would be too much for him."


    Her mother said coldly, "Let me tell you, your dad still doesn''t have a car! He''s getting old, and if he doesn''t get to enjoy life now, he might never get the chance! So, this car will be for your dad to drive. Consider it your way of showing filial piety!"


    Mary Xiao looked at James and tentatively asked, "James, what do you think?"


    James thought, it''s possible, but this isn''t a BMW 520, it''s a 760!


    To be honest, his father-in-law was a henpecked loser who wasn''t favored by his mother-in-law. For him, a 760 would be too much...


    Thinking of this, he quickly flattered, "Oh Dad, this is a BMW 520, the lowest model in the 5 Series, nicknamed the ''beggar version.'' If you drive this car, people will laugh at you."


    Her mother frowned, "What? You don''t want to give it to us?"


    James quickly waved his hand, "No, no, no, it''s not that. I just think you shouldn''t drive a ''beggar version.'' How about this, I won''t give you this 520. I''ll buy you a 530 instead. The 530 is a higher model than the 520, and it will give you more face when you drive it."


    Her mother frowned and asked, "Do you have the money to buy a 530?"


    James said, "I only paid a small down payment for this car. I still have some money left. Don''t worry, I''ll buy you a car first thing tomorrow morning!"


    Read this novel and other amazing translated novels from the original source at the "[pawread.c????m]"

 Chapter 47 – Buy another BMW car

    Father-in-law and mother-in-law immediately beamed with joy when they heard that James Ye would buy them an even better car tomorrow.


    But the father-in-law had no idea that he had missed out on the top-tier BMW 760.


    Mary Xiao was a bit worried. After returning to their room and finishing her evening routine, she quietly asked James, "Do you still have money to buy a car? I have some savings here. Why don''t you take it tomorrow to buy the car?"


    James quickly waved his hand, "No need, I still have some left, it''s enough."


    Mary apologized, "I''m really sorry, I didn''t expect my parents to be like this..."


    James laughed, "What are you talking about? Your parents are my parents too. We''re all family, it''s only right to be filial to them."


    With that, James lay down on his small floor mat and smiled, "Don''t worry, I''ll go buy another one first thing in the morning!"


    Mary was touched, "James, thank you!"


    James laughed heartily, "Why are you being so polite with me, honey!"


    Mary''s face turned slightly red as she asked, "Won''t you be cold sleeping on the floor at night?"


    James blurted out, "No, not cold at all, don''t worry, I''m fine!"


    Mary suddenly snapped, "If you''re not cold, then go to sleep! Pighead!"


    She had just started thinking about letting him sleep on the bed, but this pighead just didn''t get it...


    James suddenly realized that he might have missed something...


    So he quickly said, "Oh honey, the floor is so cold, I''m shivering!"


    Mary said irritably, "If it''s cold, add another blanket!"


    "Sigh..."


    James was instantly frustrated.


    After a while, he asked unwillingly, "Honey, it seems to be getting colder, I''m really cold!"


    Mary ignored him and kicked down a blanket, angrily saying, "How cold can it be on a summer night? If you''re still cold, I''ll get you a down jacket to wear!"


    James felt hopeless; it seemed his wife really wouldn''t let him sleep on the bed tonight!


    ...


    The next day, Mary Xiao got ready to go to work early in the morning.


    James made her breakfast and handed her the BMW keys, saying, "Drive to work today."


    Mary couldn''t help but say, "You bought the car, it''s not appropriate for me to drive it to work, right?"


    James said, "What''s inappropriate about it? You''re my wife, and the car is for you, not for me."


    Mary gently nodded and said gratefully, "Thank you!"


    She took the BMW keys from his hand.


    The father-in-law watched enviously and blurted out, "James, you didn''t forget about buying me a car, did you?"


    "Didn''t forget, didn''t forget!" James quickly said, "I''ll go buy it for you today. Just wait at home for the new car!"


    The father-in-law immediately beamed with joy, "Then I''ll be waiting! BMW 530, you said it yourself, don''t get it wrong!" S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    James found it amusing and nodded, "Don''t worry, Dad, I''ll get you the BMW 530 today!"


    With that, he followed his wife downstairs and pulled his little electromobile out of the BMW 760''s trunk.


    Mary drove the BMW 760 to work, while James rode his electromobile to the BMW dealership.


    As he was nearing the BMW dealership, he happened to pass by the Audi dealership.


    The people at the Audi dealership were the first to see him. One salesperson blurted out, "Damn, the guy who bought the BMW 760 is riding his electromobile here again!"


    "Damn it, even if we have to kneel today, we must sell him a top-spec Audi A8!"


    "That''s right!"


    In an instant, a bunch of Audi salespeople rushed out and surrounded him.


    "Sir! Come check out the latest top-spec Audi A8 in our store!"


    "Sir! Our A8 has a powerful engine, a W12, which is even better than the BMW 760''s V12!"


    James asked curiously, "Is it really that good?"


    "Absolutely!" An Audi salesperson quickly introduced, "Sir, let me tell you, our W12 engine can shut off half of its cylinders, turning it into a 6-cylinder engine, which saves more fuel!"


    James sneered, "Are you crazy? Why would I buy a 12-cylinder car and shut off 6 cylinders to save fuel? Why not just buy a 6-cylinder car?"


    "This... this..."


    The salesperson realized he had misspoken and his face turned red.


    James sneered at them, "I know what you''re thinking. You saw me buy a BMW 760 yesterday and felt bad, so today you''re trying to keep me as a customer, right?"


    A bunch of people quickly nodded repeatedly.


    James scoffed, "Too late! Yesterday you ignored me, today you can''t afford me!"


    With that, James pressed the horn on his electromobile.


    "Beep beep..."


    "Move aside, I''m going to the BMW dealership to buy a car!"


    At this moment, the BMW salespeople also rushed out, angrily shouting, "Audi people, what are you doing? Stealing our customers? Didn''t you see our customer ignoring you? If you keep surrounding our VIP, I''ll have the TV station expose you!"


    The Audi people felt embarrassed and had to leave dejectedly.


    The manager of the BMW dealership personally came to greet James, respectfully asking, "Mr. Ye, are you here to buy a car again today?"


    James nodded and said, "Do you have a BMW 530 in stock? I want to drive it away today!"


    "Yes, yes, we do!"


    The manager was thrilled.


    Yesterday he bought a BMW 760, and today he''s buying a BMW 530. This is a big customer!


    So he quickly said, "Sir, please follow me, I''ll show you the display car."


    James nodded and followed him into the showroom.


    There happened to be a BMW 530 in the showroom. James sat inside to get a feel for it and found that although it looked similar to the 7 Series, the interior was much inferior. However, for his middle-aged father-in-law, it was already considered high-end.


    A quick look at " will leave you more fulfilled.


    So he was ready to swipe his card to buy the car. At this moment, he suddenly heard a familiar voice, coquettishly saying, "Oh darling, I really like the BMW X6! Can you buy me an X6?"


    Sitting in the car, James looked in the direction of the voice and saw that his college friend Michael Wang''s fianc¨¦e, Susan Liu, was clinging to an unfamiliar man, looking very affectionate and intimate.


    James immediately frowned, thinking, Susan Liu is calling this guy darling, could she be cheating on Michael Wang?


    He couldn''t help but feel angry because he despised women who had no moral bottom line and were unfaithful in relationships.


    Moreover, Michael Wang was diligently working on his career, and she was out here cheating on him. Such a woman was disgusting!


    At this moment, the man asked lecherously, "If I buy you the X6 now, how will you explain it to Michael Wang?"


    "Michael Wang?" Susan Liu said with a face full of disdain, "Don''t mention that loser. He''s useless, no money, no skills. If he weren''t so honest and reliable, I wouldn''t be with him!"

 Chapter 48 – Bitch Couple

    The man chuckled, pinching Susan Liu''s face, and asked, "Now that you''re my woman, are you still planning to stay with him? Any woman I''ve been with, no other man is allowed to touch!"


    Susan Liu hurriedly replied, "Don''t worry, East Brother. Ever since we got together, I haven''t let him touch me. I find him filthy! My body is always yours alone, only to serve you!"


    She continued to explain, "I was actually planning to break up with him right after the restaurant opened, but it turned out that one of his classmates had some connections and helped me deal with Scarface in the development zone. I thought I''d wait until the business stabilized a bit before breaking up with him and kicking him out of the restaurant."


    Zhao Dong laughed heartily and said, "Scarface? That''s nothing. If you had told me earlier, one phone call from me and his boss would be apologizing to you."


    Susan Liu giggled, "Oh, East Brother, you''re amazing! It was an urgent situation at the time, and I didn''t have time to call you. Plus, Michael Wang was there, and I was afraid you''d be unhappy if you saw him!"


    Zhao Dong pinched her waist and laughed, "You''re quite considerate!"


    Susan Liu immediately started rubbing her chest against his arm and said, "East Brother, will you buy me that BMW X6?"


    Zhao Dong laughed and said, "Alright, later we''ll go to my place, I''ll feed you a few times, and then you go break up with that loser. Tomorrow, I''ll buy you the BMW X6!"


    Susan Liu asked excitedly, "East Brother, are you serious? You''ll really buy me the X6 tomorrow?"


    "When have I ever lied to you?" Zhao Dong chuckled and said, "But you have to serve me well first!"


    Susan Liu immediately said seductively, "Don''t worry, East Brother. Once we get to your place, I''ll serve you well!" S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With that, the two turned and left the BMW dealership.


    James Ye was furious at this bitch couple and immediately took out his phone to call Michael Wang.


    As soon as Michael Wang answered, he excitedly said, "James, what''s up? Why did you think of calling me?"


    James Ye said calmly, "Just calling to check on you. What are you up to?"


    Michael Wang replied, "I''m helping out in the restaurant kitchen. It''s almost noon, and we''re about to have customers, so I''m giving a hand."


    James Ye asked, "Are you busy at the restaurant every day?"


    Michael Wang said, "Yes, the restaurant just opened, and there''s a lot to do. Besides, most of the money for the restaurant came from Susan''s dad. If I don''t work hard, their family will look down on me."


    James Ye asked, "How much did you put in?"


    "I put in a hundred thousand, which is all my savings since I graduated from college."


    James Ye continued, "Who''s the owner of the restaurant?"


    Michael Wang replied, "It''s me!"


    James Ye asked, "Is your name on the business registration?"


    Michael Wang said, "No, the business registration is in Susan''s dad''s name. We''re not married yet, and since he put up the money, it''s not appropriate to have my name on it."


    He added, "But her dad said that once we get married, he''ll transfer the actual ownership of the restaurant to me."


    James Ye shook his head. This fool was being used and didn''t even know it!


    Susan Liu was treating him like a workhorse, making him slave away at the restaurant in the development zone while she was out cheating with a rich man, planning to kick him out once the business was stable.


    The restaurant''s business registration had nothing to do with Michael Wang. If Susan Liu turned on him, he''d be left with nothing!


    Not only would all his efforts be in vain, but he would also lose his hundred thousand yuan investment!


    Thinking of this, James Ye felt even more disgusted with Susan Liu and directly asked Michael Wang, "Where''s Susan now?"


    Michael Wang laughed, "She''s getting her hair done. Why?"


    James Ye sneered, "Getting her hair done? That''s what she told you?"


    "Yes!"


    "And you believe her?"


    Michael Wang, puzzled, asked, "James, what do you mean? Just say it straight."


    James Ye sighed and said, "Alright, I''ll be direct. I saw Susan Liu at the BMW dealership. She was with a man named Zhao Dong, calling him ''darling.'' You might be getting cuckolded."


    "Impossible!" Michael Wang blurted out, "Susan isn''t that kind of person! Could you have mistaken someone else for her?"


    James Ye said firmly, "I didn''t mistake her. It was definitely her."


    "I don''t believe it!" Michael Wang''s tone turned cold, "James, we''re good friends, but you can''t badmouth my fianc¨¦e just because we''re close! If you keep slandering her, I''ll cut ties with you!"


    James Ye frowned and said calmly, "Alright, as a friend, I''ve given you my warning. If you don''t believe me, there''s nothing I can do. Good luck!"


    With that, James Ye hung up the phone.


    What a fool blinded by love. He should have secretly recorded a video to show him!


    At this moment, the BMW dealership manager knocked on the car window and asked, "Sir, are you satisfied with this 530?"


    James Ye nodded, "It''s good. I''ll take this one. Get me a new one from the warehouse."


    When you''re just trying to make great content at .


    The manager''s face lit up with joy, "Please wait a moment. I''ll arrange for someone to bring the car over!"


    Soon, a black BMW 530 was driven over by a salesperson. James Ye swiftly paid with his card, folded his electromobile, stuffed it into the trunk, and drove off in style.


    On the way back, his father-in-law and mother-in-law kept calling to ask if he was back yet.


    When James Ye arrived downstairs, he saw that his father-in-law and mother-in-law were already waiting.


    Seeing that James Ye had really bought a BMW 530, the old couple was overjoyed.


    His father-in-law circled the BMW several times, exclaiming, "What a car! I never thought I''d get to drive a BMW!"


    James Ye laughed, "Dad, maybe one day you''ll even drive a Rolls-Royce."


    His father-in-law laughed heartily, "That depends on your abilities!"


    His mother-in-law was also delighted and her attitude towards James Ye improved significantly.


    His father-in-law took the car for a test drive and said, "The car is great, drives smoothly, but it''s a bit long and hard to handle. James, be my driver this afternoon. I need to go out and take care of some things."


    James Ye nodded, "Sure, Dad."


    His mother-in-law excitedly said, "You can be my driver too. Take me to have afternoon tea with my friends! Let them see that I have a BMW chauffeur!"


    "Sure, Mom!"

 Chapter 49 – Tricky father-in-law

    After lunch, Christopher Xiao was already dressed up and urged James Ye, "James, hurry up and get ready. Take our new car and drive me to the antique street. A shop there just got a Tang Dynasty official kiln vase, and I want to go appreciate it."


    James couldn''t help but advise, "Dad, are you getting into antiques again? We don''t have much money. Isn''t buying antiques a bit too extravagant?"


    Christopher Xiao didn''t have much talent for making money, but he had plenty of dreams of getting rich. He loved wandering around the antique street, always dreaming of finding a hidden treasure.


    However, over the past few years, he had mostly been swindled.


    He had stopped for a while, but now it seemed he was back at it again.


    Seeing James dare to question him, Christopher snorted coldly and said, "Stop talking nonsense and drive me there."


    James had no choice but to comply and drove his father-in-law to the antique street.


    On the way, Christopher sat in the back seat of their new BMW, feeling very pleased with himself.


    This novel is available on ".


    He didn''t sit in the passenger seat but rather in the spacious back seat, crossing his legs and directing James on how to drive while also having him play his favorite treasure-hunting audiobooks.


    According to him, reading strained his eyes at his age, so he preferred listening to audiobooks every day.


    James listened to a few segments with him and realized that the protagonist in the stories could spend ten bucks and end up with a jade stone worth billions.


    Hearing this, James understood why his father-in-law was always dreaming of striking it rich.


    Christopher listened with great interest, sighing, "Oh, when will I get such luck? Spending ten bucks on a stone and making a billion... Even a hundred million would satisfy me..."


    James coughed awkwardly and said, "Dad, stop thinking about gambling on stones. It''s all a scam."


    Christopher sneered, "What do you know?"


    As they approached the antique street, Christopher hurriedly instructed, "Find a parking spot quickly. Don''t make me late for my appointment!"


    Jinling was a historic city, and the antique street outside the scenic area was quite famous nationally, attracting antique dealers and treasure hunters from all over the country.


    The local tourism department had invested heavily in renovating the antique street, turning it into a tourist attraction.


    Upon arriving at the antique street, Christopher confidently walked to the entrance of an antique shop and informed the staff about his appointment. They then invited both of them to the VIP room in the back to view the items.


    James was about to follow when Christopher turned and said, "You don''t need to come in. You won''t understand anything anyway. Wait for me at the VIP room entrance!"


    James nodded, "Got it, Dad!"


    With his hands behind his back, Christopher followed the staff into the VIP room, while James sat down in the waiting area.


    ...


    A few minutes later, James suddenly heard a loud crash from inside the VIP room.


    He then saw his father-in-law, Christopher, rushing out with a panicked expression.


    He was muttering, "It''s over, it''s over! This is bad!"


    James quickly approached and looked behind his father-in-law, seeing a tall, slender ceramic vase broken into two pieces on the floor, with many small ceramic fragments scattered around.


    From the fragments, it was clear that the broken item was a Tang Dynasty Yuhuchun vase.


    Having grown up in the Ye Family, James was well-versed in antiques and could tell at a glance that the vase was genuine, worth several million in the market.


    It seemed his father-in-law was in big trouble this time. S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Inside the VIP room, a middle-aged man with a dark expression said, "Mr. Xiao, this Yuhuchun vase cost us over five million. Now that you''ve broken it, you must compensate us!"


    This man was Zhou Liangyun, the manager of Jiqingtang.


    Christopher pulled James over, unable to hide his panic, and said, "This is my precious son-in-law. Do you know how much money he has? Five million is nothing to him, even fifty million is no problem! You two discuss the compensation. I have something to do, so I''ll leave first!"


    With that, Christopher pushed James inside and ran out.


    James was dumbfounded. His father-in-law was shameless, clearly trying to make him take the fall!


    Zhou Liangyun looked at James and asked coldly, "Sir, the total is five million three hundred eighty thousand. Will you pay by card or transfer?"


    James spread his hands, "I have no money."


    He could afford to pay, but he wanted his father-in-law to learn a lesson and stop dragging him to the antique street every day.


    "No money?" Zhou Liangyun gritted his teeth, "You think you can get away with just saying you have no money after breaking something in Jiqingtang?"


    James sighed, "I''m not trying to get away, but I really don''t have money. Besides, I didn''t break the vase. Why should I pay?"


    Zhou Liangyun was furious, "Isn''t he your father-in-law?"


    James nodded, "You said it yourself, he''s my father-in-law, not me. Whoever broke it should pay. There''s a saying, ''The debt has a debtor; don''t involve the innocent.'' Don''t you understand that?"


    Zhou Liangyun was enraged but realized James had a point.


    If he forced James to pay, it would ruin Jiqingtang''s reputation.


    So he quickly instructed his staff, "You guys, go catch that old man!"


    James watched them scramble to chase his father-in-law, smiling silently.


    He could have paid the money directly, but that would let his shameless father-in-law off too easily.


    It was better to let the old man suffer a bit.


    Otherwise, if something like this happened again, he would still try to drag James into it.


    With everyone from Jiqingtang chasing his father-in-law, James had nothing to do and looked at the broken vase on the floor.


    The vase was about half a meter tall, now broken into two halves and a pile of fragments. It was quite a pity.


    However, he suddenly noticed something hidden at the bottom of the lower half of the vase.


    He quickly reached in and pulled out a small wooden box!


    Unexpectedly, there was a hidden mechanism inside the vase!


    The Yuhuchun vase had a small mouth and a large belly. The wooden box was clearly two or three times larger than the vase''s mouth, indicating it wasn''t placed inside later but was made into the vase during its creation!


    This meant the wooden box was also from the Tang Dynasty!


    James held the wooden box and examined it carefully before using some force to open it with a snap.


    As the box opened, a burst of exquisite fragrance filled the air, making James feel refreshed.


    Inside the box lay a tiny ancient book, no larger than his palm!


    James picked up the miniature book and saw four ancient characters on the title page: "Nine Mysterious Heavenly Scriptures."


    "The name is interesting. I wonder what it''s about." James flipped through the book.


    The first chapter was "Medical Techniques," containing numerous cases and treatment methods.


    James frowned slightly. He had some knowledge of traditional Chinese medicine, but the content in this book was far more advanced than current medical practices.


    Some of the treatment methods were unheard of, and towards the end of the medical chapter, James even found alchemy techniques, with some elixirs having effects that seemed beyond reality.


    Intrigued, James sat down and continued reading.


    Unexpectedly, the "Nine Mysterious Heavenly Scriptures" also contained sections on Feng Shui, divination, treasure appraisal, and restoration, as well as many other strange and mysterious topics.


    James read for a long time, feeling as if every word in the book was drilling into his mind, his heart boiling with excitement.


    He had struck gold!


    This was a priceless treasure!

 Chapter 50 – James Ye takes action!

    James Ye was overjoyed and immediately prepared to tuck the "Nine Mysterious Heavenly Scriptures" into his chest.


    However, the book instantly turned to powder and disappeared.


    But every word from the book was clearly imprinted in James Ye''s mind.


    At this moment, his fleeing father-in-law was roughly dragged back by several burly men.


    Seeing his face red and swollen on both sides, it was clear he had been caught and beaten!


    James Ye looked at his father-in-law''s sorry state and couldn''t help but want to laugh.


    This old fellow caused trouble and tried to pin it on him. It was outrageous! Letting him get a bit of a lesson was a fitting punishment.


    Christopher Xiao was in an exceptionally sorry state. He had run desperately just now and was exhausted.


    But he didn''t have car keys, and being older and overweight, he couldn''t run fast and was no match for these young men.


    So, it didn''t take long before he was caught, tied up, and slapped several times. It was truly miserable.


    As they dragged Christopher Xiao back, Manager Zhou Liangyun gritted his teeth and said, "Old man, you think you can just run after smashing our vase? You haven''t even bothered to find out about Jiqingtang''s background!"


    The father-in-law said in terror, "I didn''t mean to! The vase was too slippery..."


    Zhou Liangyun coldly said, "Save your breath! I''ll give you until this afternoon to come up with the money. If you can''t pay, I''ll call the police and charge you with intentional damage to property. With a value of over five million, you''ll be in prison for the rest of your life!"


    Christopher Xiao was trembling all over, looking at James Ye as if he were a lifeline. "James, my good son-in-law! You can''t just leave me to die!" S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    James Ye helplessly said, "Dad, I don''t have that kind of money either!"


    Christopher Xiao blurted out, "Then you go to jail for me! The Xiao Family has supported you for so long, it''s time for you to repay the favor!"


    James Ye thought, how could you even say such a thing?


    Just as he was about to refuse, the middle-aged man interrupted, "The debtor must pay his debts. At Jiqingtang, we do business with integrity. Since you broke the vase, you must compensate for it!"


    Then he turned to James Ye and said, "You can leave, but you''d better help him come up with the money. Otherwise, by this afternoon, I''ll send him to the police station!"


    James Ye nodded lightly.


    Christopher Xiao was terrified and cried, "Good son-in-law, you can''t leave! What will I do if you go?"


    Seeing him so scared, James Ye couldn''t help but find it amusing.


    But of course, he couldn''t show it on his face.


    A quick look at " will leave you more fulfilled.


    He was thinking of an excuse to leave and let his father-in-law suffer a bit.


    But then he suddenly remembered an ancient method for restoring porcelain artifacts from the "Nine Mysterious Heavenly Scriptures." With a thought, he said, "Manager Zhou, if I can repair the Yuhuchun vase, will you let my father-in-law go?"


    Zhou Liangyun sneered and said, "Who do you think you are, talking about repairing antiques? Let me tell you, I''ve already sent photos to an expert in Jinling for appraisal. They said it''s impossible to repair it."


    James Ye shook his head and said, "The vase is already broken, keeping it won''t do any good. Let me try, it won''t cost you anything..."


    Zhou Liangyun scoffed disdainfully, "Fine, you''re stubborn, aren''t you? Go ahead! I want to see what you can do!"


    James Ye said, "Prepare a sheet of rice paper, a brush, and five eggs for me. The eggs must be raw."


    Zhou Liangyun, eager to see what kind of joke James Ye would make, didn''t hesitate and quickly brought a basket of raw eggs.


    But he couldn''t help but mock, "I''ve never seen anyone use eggs to repair artifacts. I''m warning you, don''t try any tricks. Either you pay up, or we''ll take your father-in-law to court. Five million is enough to keep him in jail for life."


    James Ye nodded, "What if I fix it?"


    Zhou Liangyun snorted, "If a professional appraisal confirms it''s fixed and can recover most of the value, then you can leave!"


    "Deal!" James Ye nodded, "It''s a promise!"


    With that, he stopped talking and picked up the brush, sketching the outline of the Yuhuchun vase on the rice paper.


    Then, he cracked an egg, dipped his finger in the egg white, and smeared it on a piece of the vase''s fragment, pressing it onto the paper model. He continued picking up pieces and pressing them on, gradually covering the paper model with fragments of the antique...


    Everyone held their breath, afraid to disturb his restoration process.


    Soon, half an hour passed.


    When James Ye straightened up again, what appeared before everyone was a newly restored Tang Dynasty Yuhuchun vase.


    He smiled at Zhou Liangyun and said, "You can check if there are any flaws."


    Zhou Liangyun picked up the vase, glanced up and down, and then disdainfully said, "Are you kidding me? You think smearing egg whites on it counts as restoration? If I break your leg and smear egg whites on it, will that work?"


    "Don''t touch that vase!"


    At this moment, a clear and urgent voice came from the door.


    Following that, a cold and elegant beauty in a white casual suit stepped in.


    She had a delicate face, a perfect and tall figure, nearly 1.7 meters tall, exuding a noble aura. Her beautiful eyes scanned the room, filled with cold arrogance, like an ice queen.


    Zhou Liangyun''s face changed instantly upon seeing her, and he quickly bowed respectfully, "Miss, why are you here?"


    The newcomer was none other than Patricia Song, the actual owner of Jiqingtang and the eldest daughter of Jinling''s top family, the Song Family.


    Patricia Song snorted coldly, her face full of anger, "I was afraid if I didn''t come, you''d ruin the store! What''s going on here?"


    Zhou Liangyun smiled awkwardly and quickly replied, "A customer accidentally broke the vase while looking at it. His son-in-law tried to repair it with eggs, and I was just about to discuss compensation with them."


    Patricia Song approached the Yuhuchun vase, observed for a moment, and her expression suddenly changed!


    Then she immediately turned back and angrily scolded Zhou Liangyun, "Put it down! Who told you to touch it without understanding it!"


    Zhou Liangyun was stunned, "Miss, what do you mean?"


    Patricia Song angrily said, "This is a newly restored artifact. Except for the restoration expert, no one else should touch it for now. Don''t you even know this rule?"


    Zhou Liangyun hesitated, "But... it''s just smeared with egg whites, it doesn''t count as restoration, right?"


    Patricia Song''s beautiful eyes were filled with anger as she scolded, "You fool! After this vase was restored, its price would have at least doubled. But because you touched it, we''ve lost at least two million! Pack your things and don''t come back tomorrow!"


    She had seen a porcelain plate from the same period as the Yuhuchun vase at an auction in Hong Kong.


    The history of that plate was interesting. It was a Tang Dynasty porcelain, broken in the Song Dynasty, and then repaired by skilled craftsmen in the Song Dynasty using the same method.


    Because this restoration technique was extremely rare and had long been lost in history, the plate''s final auction price was thirteen million, far exceeding its actual value.


    Now, this Yuhuchun vase had been restored by James Ye using the lost technique, and its value had soared!


    Zhou Liangyun''s face turned pale. He never expected that just touching the Yuhuchun vase would cause such a huge loss and cost him his job.


    Patricia Song then asked, "Where is the master who restored this Yuhuchun vase? Take me to meet him immediately."