She took a deep breath, carefully taking out the plant. She stared at it for a long time before finally lighting it with a lighter. She placed it by the window and waited silently.
"This is your Chen family's last chance," a voice said. A figure appeared at the window, looking at Chen Jiahao.
Chen Jiahao bowed respectfully. "Senior."
"Speak. What is this final request?" the man asked.
Chen Jiahao hesitated, then said, "I want the project scheduled for tomorrow."
The man studied Chen Jiahao for a while. "Are you sure? Is this truly the last thing your Chen family demands?"
"Yes. If we cannot secure this project, the Chen family has no hope left," Chen Jiahao answered respectfully.
The man hummed. "Since you want it, it is yours." With that, he vanished from the window.
Hearing the answer he wanted, Chen Jiahao sighed in relief. Yet, a bitter taste remained in his mouth. He could no longer use this method. If the Chen family could stand firm, it would be fine. But if they faced another crisis, they would surely fall into dust.
The next morning, Shangguan Haohan heard some news and immediately sought out Ma Tianliang. "Sir, the project was directly assigned to the Chen family. What is going on? Do you have any information?"
Ma Tianliang smiled, looking unsurprised. "The Chen family likely still has a hidden supporter." He handed a video tape to Shangguan Haohan.
The tape recorded the meeting between Chen Jiahao and the mysterious man the previous night. Although there was no sound, Chen Jiahao’s respectful attitude toward the man was clear.
"Who is this person?" Shangguan Haohan did not recognize him.
Ma Tianliang smiled faintly. "We are still investigating. Losing this project is not the end. The Chen family got lucky this time, escaping disaster. But who knows if they can dodge the next one?"
The footage showed a clear interest-based relationship between the Chen family and the stranger. Otherwise, Chen Jiahao would not have been so respectful. They needed to identify this person to proceed with their plan.
Shangguan Haohan was not disappointed. "It is a pity the Chen family escaped this time."
"Perhaps their ancestors are still protecting them. But such karmic merit will eventually run out," Ma Tianliang said with a light smile. "You must rise above the Chen family before they recover. At least, your positions should swap. Let the Chen family never suppress you again."
Shangguan Haohan understood. This was a good opportunity. Although he could not destroy the Chen family completely, he could use this chance to elevate the Shangguan family.
She nodded firmly. "Sir Ma, please rest assured. I will not miss this opportunity."
As a businessman, timing was crucial. This was the turning point for the Shangguan family. If successful, they would surpass the Chen family and break free from their control. Shangguan Haohan was determined to succeed.
Seeing his resolve, Ma Tianliang smiled. "Tonight, I will introduce you to someone."
Shangguan Haohan guessed immediately. "You mean Mr. Wu?"
"Yes. Brother Wu’s wisdom surpasses mine. Let us drink and chat. He might have better advice," Ma Tianliang said with a smile.
"Great! I really want to meet Mr. Wu," Shangguan Haohan said excitedly. He was grateful for the help from both Ma Tianliang and Wu Han.
That evening, Ma Tianliang brought Wu Han. Shangguan Haohan welcomed them warmly.
"After listening to Mr. Wu and Mr. Ma, I feel enlightened. My vision has been too narrow these years," Shangguan Haohan said, feeling a bit ashamed after hearing Wu Han’s insights.
Wu Han and Ma Tianliang smiled. "Master Shangguan, do not worry. We can discuss things slowly. Our main purpose in coming to Xiangshui is to help the Shangguan family develop."
"Thank you both for your help," Shangguan Haohan said sincerely.
"No need for formalities. We are just following orders," Wu Han said lightly.
Shangguan Haohan paused, then asked, "Gentlemen, I have a question. Is it appropriate to ask?"
"Please, go ahead," Wu Han replied. She knew the question would be about Zhu Yanyi. It was expected. Both the Wu and Ma families served Zhu Yanyi because they owed her a debt of gratitude. Adding one more follower was fine. Wu Han had actually planned to ask the Shangguan family to join them, but she had not spoken yet.
It was better if they asked voluntarily. Shangguan Haohan’s initiative pleased Wu Han.
"I heard you serve the Little Divine Doctor. I do not understand your relationship with her," Shangguan Haohan said.
"We have said before: the Little Divine Doctor is our young master," Ma Tianliang said, knowing Wu Han’s plan.
Wu Han smiled. "Both our families suffered from hereditary diseases. The Little Divine Doctor gave us health and a new life. Therefore, we serve her as our master."
Shangguan Haohan understood. "I see. Does she have any specific demands?"
Wu Han looked at him. "Our young master only requires us to act uprightly. Our actions must have good intentions. We cannot use conspiracy against others, but we can use open strategies."
"Brother Wu, you cannot say that. The Little Divine Doctor is a master of open strategies herself," Ma Tianliang laughed.
Wu Han also laughed. "True. Our young master never uses conspiracy. She only uses open strategies."
Shangguan Haohan saw their loyalty and respect for Zhu Yanyi.
Wu Han continued, "Master Shangguan, there is something I have not said before. Since we are meeting today and you asked about our young master, I will speak up. Please forgive me if I offend you."
Shangguan Haohan waved his hand quickly. "Mr. Wu, please speak freely. We are all on the same side. There is nothing we cannot discuss."