Chapter 33 Broken Promise at Chiwan

Chapter 33 Breaking the Chiwan Appointment

Young Mr. Tan’s romantic exploits have added another dramatic chapter, with old and new flames converging. Pinghai’s official promotional video for the second half of the year has already captured public attention and curiosity even before filming begins.

Tan Youming, at the center of the media storm, couldn’t be bothered to address the rumors, only finding a moment in his busy schedule to blow up Shen Zongnian’s phone with messages.

“Can’t make it back today either—the half-finished rushes don’t match the tone, needs re-adjusting.”

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Shen Zongnian didn’t open them, continuing to listen to the meeting. Huantu’s senior management meetings have always been quite lively. Subordinates are well aware of Shen Zongnian’s straightforward, pragmatic style—no empty formalities or hollow talk.

The Nordic energy project has officially launched. As Huantu’s main focus for the second half of the year, everyone knows it’s a golden opportunity.

Discussions grew heated as departments competed for task assignments, authority, and subsequent profit distribution, showing great enthusiasm.

From project initiation to contingency plans, team structure to technical setup, the debate was intense, with everyone voicing their opinions—a rare, invigorating burst of energy amid the usual monotony.

Shen Zongnian didn’t offer comments, only announcing when the discussion reached a stalemate, “This is Huantu’s innovative attempt in cross-border energy technology projects. I understand everyone’s interest and emphasis on it.”

“The board has decided that team formation and technical plans will be determined through a competitive selection process and voting.”

“And it’s not limited to middle management. After the meeting, please notify all departments—every employee will have a vote.”

This included Executive Shen Zongnian himself; even if he wanted to serve as CSO, he would have to compete for the position.

It also included Tan Zuyi, who had recently joined. Even interns had voting rights.

Tan Zuyi was a woman of action, joining Huantu less than half a month after the wedding banquet. Rotating from pre-sales due diligence training to operations and maintenance, she actually ended up in more contact with Tan Youming after starting work than before.

Tan Youming was busy, but with frequent business dealings between Huantu and Pinghai, Tan Zuyi could occasionally grab a meal with him in the company cafeteria when she visited with her team for meetings or tasks.

Pinghai’s campus had three or four employee cafeterias serving Cantonese cuisine. After dishes like turbot, sand ginger chicken, and Fubao triple-stuffed delicacies were served, Tan Youming deliberately asked, “Which has better food—Huantu or Pinghai?”

One was her family’s company, the other her current employer. Tan Zuyi thought to herself, wasn’t this like asking a child to choose between liking Mom or Dad? She sidestepped the trap: “Both are good. Next time you come to our company, I’ll use my employee card to treat you.”

Tan Youming nodded. “As if I’d need to use your card. Thank you very much.”

“Oh,” Tan Zuyi’s overworked brain caught up—she was showing off in front of Huantu’s unofficial president. “You’re a Huantu VIP—you’ve probably eaten more salt in Huantu’s cafeterias than I’ve eaten rice.”

Tan Youming wondered if her quick wit would rub her colleagues the wrong way at Huantu. “So, how’s the job? Do you like it?”

“Love it,” Tan Zuyi showed her brother her employee badge. “I’m in the energy department now. The new project is short-handed. Huantu’s overseas operations are more extensive than I imagined, and the operational model is quite innovative.” She had interned at an international energy organization during her two years abroad and was keenly aware of cutting-edge developments in the field.

“Hmm,” Tan Youming pushed away the grinning ID photo she shoved in his face. Though swamped himself, he hadn’t missed any updates about Huantu. “You’re preparing to sign a friendly cooperation agreement, right? You’ll be busy then.”

“Your boss is already busy now,” Tan Youming checked his phone again—Shen Zongnian still hadn’t replied to his afternoon message. If he hadn’t confirmed with Zhong Manqing that Shen Zongnian was in a meeting, he would’ve started blowing up his phone already.

“No need to wait till then,” Tan Zuyi said, sipping her coconut slushie. “I have to go back and work overtime after this. Probably for the next few months.”

“Do Uncle and Aunt have any issues with that?”

“He’s busier than I am—been drinking with the Wang family for days, got an earful from Mom.”

Tan Youming nodded. “The Maritime Trade Association is about to be tabled. The company is preparing too.”

The Maritime Trade Association was a triennial event in the port area. Tan Zuyi asked with concern, “Is Pinghai co-hosting again this year?”

Tan Youming didn’t commit fully without certainty: “We’re working on it.”

Noticing her checking her phone several times, Tan Youming grabbed his car keys. “Let’s go, I’ll take you back.”

When the Cayenne pulled into the reserved parking spot at Huantu’s lot and her brother got out too, Tan Zuyi realized again: “So giving me a ride was just incidental, huh?”

“Yep. Now go earn money for your Zongnian-ge.” Twirling his keys, Tan Youming parted ways with her at the private elevator, walking off casually.

Shen Zongnian emerged from the meeting room after nightfall. Pushing open his office door, he found someone resting on the sofa. The tea Zhong Manqing had brewed was half-drunk, and faint dark circles were visible under his eyes.

Tan Youming slowly opened his eyes at the sound, said nothing, glanced at him, then lazily closed them again to rest.

Shen Zongnian ignored him, undid his tie, took off his jacket, hung it on the coat rack, and asked hoarsely, “What are you here for?”

Tan Youming rested his hands behind his head. “Came to see how many days it’d take for you not to come home.”

Shen Zongnian adjusted the ventilation system to bypass mode and remarked, “Someone who doesn’t even know about the home management system update probably has no right to say that.”

Lefton Avenue regularly updated its smart system on the 15th of each month. The butler had updated the backend system data, but Tan Youming missed it due to being away for work and social engagements two days in a row.

Tan Youming argued, “I reported my whereabouts every day. What about your location?”

Shen Zongnian wanted to say he never agreed to that requirement but couldn’t be bothered to argue. Rubbing his temples, he woke his computer from sleep.

“Can’t leave tonight either?”

“Didn’t you say you wanted to go to Chiwan?”

Pinghai was expanding its cultural tourism reach, but there were significant internal disagreements on positioning. During a meeting, the project team mentioned the newly opened Sailboat Hotel in Chiwan, which had recently gained fame in the industry for its compelling case studies. Tan Youming had the idea to visit and observe firsthand.

It would also be a chance to relax. He’d been working intense overtime but never skimped on treating himself. After over a month of nonstop work, Tan Youming couldn’t take it anymore and invited Zhuo Zhixuan, Chen Wan, and the others—he had many friends, but these were his closest.

Shen Zongnian had no choice but to work overtime to finish his tasks early.

“Ah,” Tan Youming looked at his dry, thin lips from long meetings. “If you’re really too busy, we can find another time.”

“Tomorrow,” Shen Zongnian said bluntly. “I won’t have time after that.”

Tan Youming agreed, casually picking up a document from the desk—a project proposal for the energy initiative. He only glanced at the cover without opening it.

Huantu and Pinghai were deeply intertwined interests but had their own domains and trade secrets.

“When are you planning to submit the project?”

“Soon.”

Tan Youming didn’t press further, making himself at home as he took over the other half of the office to reply to work messages.

Approaching 10 p.m., Shen Zongnian shut down his computer. Tan Youming asked, “Done?”

“Yeah, still need to pack when we get back.”

“No worries, I only scheduled daytime activities—no overnight stay.”

Chiwan wasn’t far. For the trip, Tan Youming took the 570 out from the garage for a spin. Shen Zongnian didn’t forbid him from driving sports cars—only from driving them alone.

The 570 was customized to Tan Youming’s specs; he handled it smoothly and steadily. So even when he hit 130 mph on an empty stretch of Chiwan Avenue, Shen Zongnian didn’t say a word.

After parking, Jiang Ying and Zhuo Zhixuan hadn't arrived yet, so the two of them took a stroll to look around first.

Weekends were crowded with tourists—families enjoying quality time, couples on vacation—making Tan Youming feel like he was on a work inspection.

"The sea-view rooms offer an alternative experience, catering to those who want to spend the night at sea without suffering from seasickness or fear of cruises."

Passing through the tropical fish exhibit, Tan Youming unfolded the tourist map: "Beach, shallow sea, tropical orchard, surfing, fishing, and diving—basically covers most activities."

Shen Zongnian glanced at it: "Within seventy nautical miles, there’s already a developed coral island that can be accessible by yacht. The east side leans against Spring Terrace Mountain, offering an ideally situated berthing location."

Before he could finish, Tan Youming immediately picked up: "It happens to be near the same latitude and longitude as the Kepler Observatory. Both sunrise and sunset, as well as the starry sea, can be promoted as scenic highlights."

Shen Zongnian generally agreed and succinctly summarized for him: "Cut costs and boost efficiency."

But he also had reservations: "The safety infrastructure and protective facilities for year-round berthing require higher standards."

"Cruise ships don’t sail in bad weather. Sailors and crew are seasonal hires, with no pay during off-seasons. But even if the Sailboat Hotel suspends operations, it still has to deal with tides, tsunamis, typhoons, and severe weather."

Thinking of something, he added another reminder: "If Pinghai’s resort plans to implement cost-reduction measures in the future, it could refer to this aspect."

Tan Youming agreed, pushing his sunglasses up onto his head: "Let’s go inside and take a look."

Shen Zongnian went to the front desk to check-in, taking two boarding-pass-style reservation tickets from his pocket. He also handed Tan Youming’s phone to him: "Your call."

Tan Youming answered: "Second Uncle?"

"Ming, are you in Chivan right now?" The wind was loud, so Tan Qizheng had to raise his voice. Even without speakerphone, it was clear.

"Ah," Tan Youming exchanged a glance with Shen Zongnian, "You saw me?"

"Saw a figure from behind on the second-floor deck that looked like you, and it really is you. What a coincidence," Tan Qizheng laughed heartily. "Old Wang and I are here having tea. Simin is here too—we were just talking about you, saying it’s been a long time since we’ve seen you. Why don’t you come over for a cup of tea and chat? She’s bored alone with us old folks. You young people would have more to talk about."

Tan Youming cursed inwardly, calling him a sly old fox, but immediately declined: "Uncle, I’m busy today. Please give my regards to Old Wang. Put your table on my tab—enjoy yourselves, okay?"

"Hey," Tan Qizheng said earnestly, "What’s so urgent that you don’t even have time for a cup of tea on a weekend? Are you busier than the Chief Executive? Your mother said you were willing to meet Simin. Why not seize the day? This is what they call a heaven-sent opportunity. Fate has come right to your doorstep—no avoiding it."

Tan Youming listened while watching Shen Zongnian. Shen Zongnian didn’t look back, just held onto the boarding passes he was about to give the front desk without handing them over.

Tan Youming snatched the tickets from his hand and slapped them onto the front desk counter, saying into the phone: "It’s not the same thing. Meeting is fine—next time I’ll find a dedicated time to personally visit Old Wang and Miss Wang. That would be more formal and sincere. Today, I came with Nian, and I’ve invited some other friends too. I’m not lying."

"Nian is there too?" Tan Qizheng hadn’t seen Shen Zongnian and thought Tan Youming was just out with buddies. If Shen Zongnian was there, it was even better. "Then both of you come over. It’s no big deal—won’t take much time." Maybe Shen Zongnian could even persuade Tan Youming. His troublemaker nephew had only ever listened to that Shen kid since they were young.

"Uncle, I see you’re quite good at killing two birds with one stone."

"Is it appropriate not to come say hello when we’ve run into each other? People will say the Tan family has no manners. Ming, Grandpa is here too—he spent the morning fishing with Old Wang," Tan Qizheng lowered his voice. "If you don’t come over to pay your respects, Grandpa will lose face. If we hadn’t seen you, it’d be one thing, but everyone’s seen you now."

Tan Youming hadn’t expected him to bring Grandpa into it. He cursed inwardly again, then remembered Old Wang’s first loan back in the day. Refusing again became difficult.

"You should go." Shen Zongnian calmly put away the boarding passes and made the decision for him.

Tan Youming looked up somewhat bewilderedly at Shen Zongnian, who repeated: "You go."

Tan Youming opened his mouth and asked: "Will you come with me?"

"No," Shen Zongnian didn’t look at him, fiddling with his phone calmly. "I’ll wait for the others."

Standing up both of their friends would be too rude. Tan Youming had to say: "Then wait for me to come back. I’ll just go say hello—it won’t take long."

His brow furrowed tightly, his tone apologetic and earnest. He’d been the one begging and pleading to come, while Shen Zongnian had turned down social engagements and worked several late shifts to free up this day. Now he was backing out at the last minute: "Sorry, I didn’t know it’d be such a coincidence. If I’d known Uncle was here, I wouldn’t have—"

"Tan Youming." Shen Zongnian cut off his self-reproach.

"Okay, I won’t say more," Tan Youming felt inexplicably upset. "You go in first and wait for me. Order whatever you want to eat. Message me if anything comes up, okay?"

Shen Zongnian only said: "Go."

Tan Youming frowned, hesitantly took two steps, still wanting to say something, then turned to find Shen Zongnian already walking away in the other direction.

He said it was just to say hello, but once he entered the situation, it couldn’t be just about tea.

Tan Youming was well-trained—even annoyed, he could quickly switch from vacation mode to social mode. He politely greeted the elders and shook hands with Miss Wang, making small talk.

Leaving immediately would be impolite. They chatted intermittently, though Tan Youming had no idea what was said—his brain was on autopilot in social mode while his attention remained fixed on recalling Shen Zongnian’s expression when he said "You go."

That look... was strange. Tan Youming couldn’t quite describe it, but whenever he thought about it, his heart would twinge slightly. It was as if... as if Shen Zongnian had already known this would happen.

But Uncle had clearly run into him by chance.

Puzzled, during the conversation, he found time to send a message: "How’s it going? Have they all arrived? I might be later. Don’t wait for me to eat. I ordered a king crab for you—just for you. Eat it yourself; don’t let others have it. If they want some, they can order their own."

Miss Wang’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Wang Shiyan, said they’d come for lunch and would arrive soon. Old Wang liked Tan Youming very much and suggested he stay to meet them before leaving. Tan Qizheng enthusiastically agreed, and Tan Youming couldn’t refuse.

Wang Shiyan was the eldest in his family. Wang Jing, newly appointed to the chamber of commerce, was his cousin. Over drinks, Tan Youming wasn’t completely without gains—he gained more practical insights into the new trends of industry associations readjusting their standards.

He also got a general idea of this year’s recruitment policies for the Maritime Trade Association, mentally planning to align and adjust with senior management upon return.

After the leadership change, the entire market environment was still in a minor adjustment period, where information gaps were crucial.

After toasting and gathering information, Tan Youming returned. Grandpa Tan asked quietly: "How was it?"

Tan Youming paused, understanding: "You old folks know what's going on." Out of the game, yet knowing all its affairs.

Grandpa snorted: "Then why are you pulling a long face? Did you really think I made you stay to sit there awkwardly with that girl?"

Tan Youming didn’t know whether to laugh or cry, protesting loudly: "I’m not pulling a long face—I’ve been smiling so much my face is stiff."

Grandpa was old but sharp-minded and sharper-eyed: "I know whether you’re smiling or angry."

Tan Youming couldn’t win against this old veteran. He went to the restroom and took out his phone. Shen Zongnian hadn’t replied. He opened Zhuo Zhixuan’s chat and saw a message sent an hour earlier:

"Tan, how could you stand up your own guests?"

Tan Youming: "Have you eaten? Where’s Shen Zongnian? What’s he doing? Why isn’t he replying?"

Zhuo Zhixuan’s "typing" was too slow. Tan Youming called directly.

Zhuo Zhixuan answered: "Why so urgent? I was about to send it." He glanced toward the window and said, "Shen Zongnian and Zhao Shengge are discussing business—probably didn’t see your message. You’re something else, standing up four people at once." Leisure outing instantly turned work meeting.

He was already wary of Shen Zongnian and Zhao Shengge. With Chen Wan away on business and Tan Youming bailing, he felt somewhat on edge, staying close to Jiang Ying: "We’ve already eaten—didn’t wait for you."

Tan Youming accepted the accusation: "My bad."

"Please also tell Jiang Ying and Zhao Shengge I’ll treat them to drinks next time. By the way," he asked, "Did the king crab I ordered arrive? Did Shen Zongnian eat it?"

"King crab? I ate it."

Tan Youming annoyed: "Why did you eat it?" The limited specialty item was restricted to one per member.

"Zhuo Zhixuan quickly clarified: 'He's been on the phone dealing with work the entire time. Never mind the king crab, I don't think he touched much of anything else. Probably in a competition with Zhao Shengge to see who eats less.'"

"..." Tan Youming fell silent for a moment before uttering an "Oh."

"And," Zhuo Zhixuan caught on, "what's wrong with me eating it? You stood me up, but did you have to be this biased?"

"Ah, what's the big deal?" Tan Youming pulled out a cigarette and held it between his lips without lighting it, dismissing it. "That's just how I am."

Zhuo Zhixuan was completely fed up, rolling his eyes as he asked, "When are you actually coming over?" With Chen Wan absent and both Shen Zongnian and Zhao Shengge being equally unapproachable, he was genuinely feeling uncomfortable.

Tan Youming: "It'll be a bit longer." After the meal, the elders suggested the two young people take a walk along the shore to digest, saying there was no need to stick around entertaining the older folks. Having just pumped them for information from the elders, Tan Youming felt it would be improper to cut ties right away.

"Alright then," Zhuo Zhixuan wanted to ask if he was really on a blind date but thought it wasn’t the right time. "We'll talk when you get back."

Tan Youming flicked away the unlit cigarette and returned to the restaurant, where the elders were already having tea. He and Wang Simin were asked to go "walk off their meal."

Once outside, Wang Simin said, "Let's skip the seaside and just take a lap around the deck." She seemed even less enthusiastic than Tan Youming.

Tan Youming agreed.

Wang Simin had a cool, reserved demeanor and spoke little, but she was very direct: "Mr. Tan, I assume you’re not really here for a blind date either? Sorry to waste your time. Let’s just stand here for a few minutes and then head back."

She leaned against the mast, her expression blank, as if indifferent to everything.

Tan Youming was in a subdued mood and was less animated than usual. "Sure," he said.

Noticing him automatically checking his phone, Wang Simin, being as perceptive as her name suggests, asked, "Meeting friends? You can go ahead. I’ll make excuses when we go back in."

"Mm," Tan Youming didn’t lie to her. "It’s fine. They’re in the same hotel anyway. A few minutes won’t matter."

Tan Youming, worried she might feel apologetic, added, "No, I’m just here to look around. A colleague recommended it."

"How do you find it?"

"The projects are diverse, very comprehensive. The experience is quite positive."

Wang Simin gave a faint smile, a rare occurrence, and said lazily, "Any suggestions for improvement?"

Tan Youming snapped back to attention and raised an eyebrow.

Wang Simin crossed her arms. The sea breeze tossed her black hair and the white sails behind her, as if she and her ship were about to set sail together. "A friend of mine designed it; I manage operations." If not for today’s hotel matters, she wouldn’t have been at such an event.

Tan Youming had done some research: "The legal entity and shareholders don’t show any investment from the Wang family."

Wang Simin was slightly surprised by his caution: "The shares are held by a proxy." The hotel was revitalized after auctioning off ships that had entered liquidation.

At the time, Wang Simin was still abroad and wanted to keep a low profile. Besides, a nearly bankrupt ship company didn’t attract much attention.

"So you’re the real boss," Tan Youming chuckled. Wang Simin, with her cool demeanor and few words, didn’t seem easy to approach—not the typical type for the service industry.

With that, the atmosphere relaxed considerably. Wang Simin took out a pack of cigarettes and asked, "Mind?"

The sea breeze ruffled Tan Youming’s shirt and hair as he accepted a cigarette from her. "No suggestions, but I have a few questions I’d like to ask."

Wang Simin tilted her head, signaling him to go on.

Tan Youming brought up the discussion he’d had with Shen Zongnian during their visit about the balance between cost reduction and quality improvement. He lit his cigarette. "Just curious. If it involves trade secrets, that's fine."

"The operational model of new model hotels is quite different from traditional supply chain models," Wang Simin shared what she could. "You probably know more than I do about specifics, from real estate developers to OTA platforms. But perhaps you’ve heard of the overseas de-chain block model?"

"I’ve heard of it, but I’m not familiar. I’d like to hear more."

"Breaking free from the constraints of traditional real estate developers and supply chains, removing intermediate links, and IP-based operations aren’t exactly new concepts anymore."

Wang Simin could only explain the main differences in initial construction support and operational consumption. "Actually, diagrams and case studies would make it clearer. I can send you our hotel’s brochure and materials if you’d like. All the AI and design work was done by my friend."

"Ms. Wang, you’re being very generous," Tan Youming remarked, cigarette between his lips. "In a way, we’re competitors."

Wang Simin remained unfazed, freely admitting, "Of course, I have my own motives."

Any business model with only one participant can’t form a market ecosystem—it’s doomed to fail. Only by scaling up can we gain clout with industry associations, increase our influence, secure equal rights and favorable conditions, and increase market share.

As a newcomer, she wasn’t in a position to be Pinghai’s competitor, but she could aim to be an ally.

Tan Youming took the cigarette from his lips, remaining calm and composed. "How can you be sure I’d be willing to take this risk? Honestly, it’s a huge departure from traditional supply models. Most stability-seeking companies wouldn’t jump in lightly."

He wondered if Wang Simin had sought funding before—if she had, it probably hadn’t worked out.

"I’m not sure," Wang Simin said bluntly, disliking mincing words. "But the fact that you’re here today to check out something new suggests the traditional market is saturated, suffering from market fatigue. Despite all the innovation within the industry, Haishi’s tourism growth has remained sluggish over the past two years. And—"

"The fact that Pinghai Group dared to completely overhaul the Phase 1 plans for Sunset Island’s Phase 2 and create an experimental zone shows that what you seek isn’t stability—it’s innovation."

Tan Youming wasn’t affected by her flattery, but he concluded that although Wang Simin had been abroad, she had a sharper grasp of the domestic industry’s current situation and prospects than many insiders.

He neither refused nor committed, only being vague: "It’s still early to discuss this, but the operational concept is indeed fresh, and I like the supporting setup."

"Really?" Wang Simin wasn’t in a rush to persuade him either. Her gaze grew distant as she looked out at the sea and said softly, "Then my friend would be very happy to hear that."

After finishing her cigarette, Wang Simin said, "Let’s head back."

"Mm." Tan Youming unlocked his phone again and paused.

"I have something to attend to and need to leave first. If you need the car, contact the driver directly." Sent by Shen Zongnian 15 minutes ago.

Tan Youming was taken aback and called him.

The line was busy—Shen Zongnian was probably on another work call. Tan Youming called Zhuo Zhixuan instead.

"Oh, right, he took a call and left in a hurry," Zhuo Zhixuan said. "Zhao Shengge left too. Jiang Ying and I were about to head out. Should we wait for you?"

"Yeah, wait for me." Tan Youming hung up.

Wang Simin, noticing him staring at his phone, turned back and asked, "What’s wrong?"

Tan Youming shook his head. "Nothing."

They returned to bid farewell to the elders. The meal was over, the stroll was done, and the elders couldn’t insist on keeping them. Both made their exits, each quicker than the other.

Tan Youming took the elevator to the fourth deck. Pushing the door open, he found Jiang Ying and Zhuo Zhixuan in the middle of a discussion—one with a cigarette, frowning, the other with hands on hips, looking agitated. Seeing him arrive, they both turned and smiled.

"Finally here."

"Ah," Tan Youming looked at them. "What were you talking about?"

"Just chatting," Zhuo Zhixuan poured him tea. "Are you calling your driver or riding back with us?"

Tan Youming glanced at him. It was odd that such a gossipmonger hadn’t pressed him about the morning’s events. Normally, he’d be digging for details like a TCB paparazzo.

But he didn't want to say more, asking, "If I go with you, will there be food?" At the noon gathering, he had to look after the elders, toast, and chat, so he hadn’t eaten much.

Jiang Ying put out his cigarette and said, "What do you want to eat? I’ll order something."

"Anything," Tan Youming replied. Though he had been the one to enthusiastically organize the gathering earlier, he now felt exhausted. Leaning back on the sofa and rubbing his temples, he added, "Just order whatever looks good. Thanks."

Jiang Ying and Zhuo Zhixuan exchanged looks. "Alright, then you rest for a bit," Jiang Ying said.

Jiang Ying ordered some seafood and snacks that they had liked earlier. Tan Youming ate without tasting anything, finishing the food hastily before getting into Jiang Ying’s car with Zhuo Zhixuan.

As the Porsche turned onto Dongyang Avenue, they hit a 90-second red light. Zhuo Zhixuan hesitated, wanting to ask Tan Youming about his meeting with Miss Wang, but noticed that Tan Youming had already fallen asleep in the back seat, holding a pillow. The sunlight fell on his profile, and even in his dreams, his brow was slightly furrowed.

Jiang Ying glanced at him in the rearview mirror and turned the radio down.

As the light turned green, Shen Zongnian hung up the phone, and the 570 turned onto Andrew Avenue.

The sea breeze along the road was as strong as it had been on the boat, swaying the palm and melia trees on either side.

A car cut in from the left, and Shen Zongnian quickly pushed away the thought of Tan Youming and Wang Simin strolling on the deck, smoking together, and exchanging contact information. He hit the gas and smoothly overtook the other car.

Arriving at Yinhe Bay, He Wufei had already finished checking the surveillance. Seeing Shen Zongnian, he was the first to extend his hand: "Mr. Shen, we meet again."

Shen Zongnian shook his hand. "Officer He."

"Sorry to call you out on your day off."

"Just doing my part to assist. It’s no trouble."

He Wufei showed a few frames of footage and informed Shen Zongnian that they would be monitoring the suspects identified. Shen Zongnian glanced at the images—one of them was even a Golden Lion client, with annual transaction volumes in the tens of millions of dollars.

Shen Zongnian had dealt with You Jinrong before—a Malaysian national who was very cautious, using different accounts for each transaction after winning money. It turned out he was laundering money for various parties. According to He Wufei’s investigation, there might even be a well-organized gang behind it.

"Also," He Wufei paused the footage and brought up something Shen Zongnian had previously inquired about, "that painting you mentioned last time isn’t at the auction house. It’s circulating on the black market. Its authenticity is unknown, but it has already changed hands twice via the dark web, traded with cryptocurrency. One of our colleagues at the Financial Regulatory Authority uncovered it."

Shen Zongnian nodded, unsurprised. Shen Xiaochang had long been bankrupt and was essentially an unwelcome person in Haishi. In recent years, he had frequently collaborated with money laundering or fraud rings in Southeast Asia, attempting to use his last remaining assets to scam or launder money.

From the age of six to now, Shen Xiaochang’s obsession with Shen Zongnian’s life and property had persisted for over a decade. Even the year before last, when Shen Zongnian had fully taken control of Huantu, he was targeted in an unexpected attack while on a business trip in Singapore. The mastermind behind it went without saying.

Shen Zongnian had no intention of allowing Shen Xiaochang to set foot in Haishi again. He lowered his gaze to the surveillance footage, planning to eliminate someone using another's hand without shedding blood: "I have some additional records of their recent movements and transactions. If Officer He needs them, I can provide them." He hoped the police would eradicate this social cancer once and for all.

"Of course, we’ll take whatever help we can get. Cross-border law enforcement is very challenging, so the more clues and evidence, the better."

The two went to a conference room without monitors for a detailed discussion. By the time they emerged, it was completely dark outside. The manager, as usual, informed him that the chocolate cookies had been packed. Shen Zongnian guessed that Tan Youming probably hadn’t returned home yet, so he didn’t take them.

He Wufei walked with him to the parking lot. The 570 really stood out, and He Wufei laughed, "So this is Mr. Shen’s style." It didn’t match his personality at all.

Shen Zongnian’s hand paused slightly as he pressed the car key, his expression unchanging. "A friend’s car." Although he had gone through several international agents to secure the limited allocation, the car was registered under Tan Youming’s name—he wasn’t the owner.

The custom-made vehicle was worth its exorbitant price. A little past 10 p.m. was rush hour in Haishi, but the 570 didn’t let any other car cut in or overtake. Shen Zongnian drove smoothly, focused on the road, not letting himself wonder what time the car’s owner would return.

However, when he arrived at No. 15 Zuoshideng Road, Tan Youming was already home.

"But we’re still getting to know each other."

This was the consensus he and Wang Simin had reached—to use each other as an excuse for now, and eventually say the other person wasn't interested, bringing the matter to a close.

Shen Zongnian gripped the car key, lowered his head to change his shoes, and closed the door. Tan Youming looked up, his tone shifting from dismissive to firm and decisive: "Alright, Uncle, I’ve got something to handle now. Let’s talk later."

Before the other party could respond, he hung up and jumped up. "Shen Zongnian, where have you been?" His movements were so abrupt that the pillow in his arms fell to the floor.

It was rare to see someone who had broken his promise act so confidently. Shen Zongnian nodded at him and headed straight for the room. "Work."

Tan Youming followed him. "I asked Zhong Manqing—you weren’t at the company."

"Mm, other business." Shen Zongnian caught the scent of women’s cigarettes on him, took off his jacket, and hung it on the coat rack without further explanation.

Tan Youming trailed behind him. "Then why didn’t you answer my calls?"

Shen Zongnian checked his phone. It must have been turned off during his discussion with He Wufei because it was confidential. Shen Zongnian moved past him to turn on the indoor ventilation system. "Didn’t notice. What did you need?"

Tan Youming, having broken his promise first, couldn’t get angry. After a moment’s thought, he asked, "Was the king crab I ordered good?"

"Mm."

Shen Zongnian’s distraction was too obvious. Tan Youming frowned. "Zhuo Zhixuan said you didn’t eat any. I was testing you."

"Really?" Shen Zongnian couldn’t recall whether he had eaten or not. Right now, he really wanted a cigarette, but finding nothing in his pockets, he changed the subject. "Have you eaten dinner? Should I make something?"

Tan Youming’s expression softened slightly. "I ate in the afternoon. I’m not hungry."

Shen Zongnian nodded and went to open the wardrobe.

Tan Youming followed him. "Did you eat?"

"Mm."

Tan Youming studied his face carefully, tentatively asking, "Are you upset?"

He offered a sincere, formal apology: "Today was my fault. Next time, we’ll go together."

"No, it’s fine," Shen Zongnian had no intention of making him feel unnecessarily guilty and changed the subject. "Did you have fun?"

Tan Youming felt the Sailboat Hotel really was as good as they say. "It was great."

"Good."

Tan Youming perked up. "Next time, let’s go without inviting Ah Xuan and the others. Just the two of us, pick a time when you’re free, and really take our time. Oh, and you were right—"

"Their biggest costs are berth protection and infrastructure. Wang Simin is actually the operator of the Sailboat Hotel. They’ve implemented fully automated AI designs, and their operational model is very different from traditional hotels. Wang Simin is interested in collaborating with us—" He suddenly frowned. "What are you doing?"

Tan Youming slammed down on the suitcase lid. Shen Zongnian looked up at him, puzzled, his tone calm. "I’m going on a business trip tomorrow."

"Oh," Tan Youming paused for a moment, then remembered. Shen Zongnian was supposed to do an off-island survey. Originally, he was supposed to leave today, but because Tan Youming wanted to go to the Sailboat Hotel, he had postponed the trip until tomorrow.

He stepped back half a step. Shen Zongnian reopened the suitcase, neatly folded his clothes, packed quickly, locked it, and straightened up the wardrobe. "Anything else?"

"Ah," Tan Youming’s gaze lingered on his face. "No."

Shen Zongnian didn’t look at him, continuing to tidy up as he said, "Then go back to your room and sleep."

Tan Youming felt there was still much left unsaid, but he didn’t know what else to say. Seeing the weariness in Shen Zongnian’s eyes, he didn’t push it.

Shen Zongnian picked up his tablet to receive a file needed for his trip. Tan Youming’s social media account, logged in previously, was still syncing messages.

A newly added female account had sent several messages, the unread count steadily increasing. Shen Zongnian didn’t open them. Instead, he logged Tan Youming out of his tablet, signed into his own account, and began reviewing the files Zhong Manqing had sent.

Tan Youming, exhausted from the day, had fallen asleep in Jiang Ying’s car earlier, but now he was wide awake. Taking his phone back to his room, he saw that Wang Simin had sent him materials about the Sailboat Hotel and some briefings on its operational model.

Without even a greeting, seven or eight documents and models were dumped on him.

Tan Youming gave them a quick look-over and replied, "Thanks."

Wang Simin, as aloof as ever, did not respond further.

In the new week, based on the information from his conversation with Wang Shiyan, Tan Youming organized the executives to reset the production and operational targets for the second quarter and began preparations for the Maritime Trade Association. Meetings, big and small, left everyone's head spinning.

Shen Zongnian got back from the island a day later than planned. After the meeting, Tan Youming’s throat was hoarse. As he walked to his office, he asked Yang Shiyan beside him, "What did Zhong Manqing say?"

Yang Shiyan studied him out of the corner of her eye and said, "Sister Manqing said she didn’t accompany him on this business trip."

"Didn’t accompany him?" Tan Youming laughed ambiguously.

That meant she didn’t want to disclose anything.

However, Tan Youming felt she had done the right thing. It was undoubtedly Shen Zongnian’s intention. If Zhong Manqing had gone against Shen Zongnian’s wishes to curry favor with him, Tan Youming would have found her untrustworthy.

"Boss, should we order overtime meals?" The lights in the CEO’s office had been on for several consecutive nights, so Yang Shiyan asked routinely.

"No need," Tan Youming said, recalling that Tan Zuyi had mentioned she never tired of Huantu’s cafeteria. "I’ll go to the staff cafeteria myself."

"Okay." Yang Shiyan glanced at the sky outside the window, where thick dark clouds loomed.

As expected, it began to rain after work—not heavily, but enough to veil the neon lights of the skyscrapers in a misty haze. The 'City of Pearls' resembled a giant ship adrift in the deep night, seemingly precarious.

The weather bureau had issued a Typhoon Signal No. 1 the day before, indicating a tropical cyclone passing nearby that might hit the city. However, the wind force was relatively weak, and for islanders accustomed to typhoon holidays since childhood, it was nothing to fear.

This was the first typhoon of the year on the island. In previous years, the typhoon season in the city typically began in June, but this year, due to the influence of warm currents, it had arrived early.

Tan Youming took an umbrella and went downstairs alone.

Pinghai had four staff cafeterias, operating almost around the clock from breakfast and afternoon tea to late-night snacks. Tan Youming rarely visited, aside from the time he brought Tan Zuyi, to avoid making employees uncomfortable. He headed to a private room and, before entering, glanced around—the occupancy rate was surprisingly high.

Pinghai’s Portuguese cuisine was quite good. Tan Youming had curry crab seafood rice with white wine clams and, on a whim, took a photo and sent it to both Tan Zuyi and Shen Zongnian.

Neither the boss nor the employees of Huantu responded to him.

Tan Youming didn’t mind. He wolfed down his meal and returned to work overtime.

During this period when Shen Zongnian was away, Tan Youming’s crew of friends seized every opportunity to invite him out. Tan Youming, who loved to have fun, rarely declined. His presence and smiles were seen at resorts in Mid-Levels and new parties on King’s Road, and he was even spotted by paparazzi a few times, making it into the gossip evening news.

But today’s meeting had dragged on for too long, so Tan Youming decided to go home, take a shower, and play a few rounds of games.

After being prompted for the third time that the password was incorrect, he frowned and belatedly dialed Shen Zongnian’s number.