[Urban] The New Five Golden Flowers (Complete Version) - 35

(Volume Nine) Chapter Seven: The Ruthless Flood

Chapter Seven: The Ruthless Flood
Sunday, June 14, 1998 Island 15 Zhan
Dajun, dressed in pajamas, stood in front of the floor-to-ceiling glass wall, gazing absently at the lighthouse in the distance. The exposed, rosy skin on her shoulders and the lingering blush on her face indicated that she had just experienced a passionate ordeal. Near the lighthouse, many tourists entered Island 15 via the sky bridge. However, she didn't need to worry about her see-through pajamas revealing her underwear, as the island was equipped with one-way transparent glass.
"Dajun, what are you thinking about?" Ning Yufang, dressed similarly, appeared beside Zhan Dajun.
"Nothing. How about him? Is he satisfied?"
"Yes, he's satisfied. He's been working hard enough lately. Big Sister is helping him relax," Ning Yufang said. Today was Sunday, and Ning Yufang, who had been busy for some time, decided to come to the port for a vacation and also visit her new home, Island 15, with Ning Yufen and others. Although the island had been open for two months, Ning Yufang and her friends hadn't been there yet.
“Yes, just listing the port alone exhausted him. Fortunately, it’s all over now, and he doesn’t have to worry about success or failure anymore,” Zhan Dajun said with emotion. Tomorrow, the shares of the Port Development and Investment Corporation will be listed and offered for sale at Linhai Port. The press conference has already been held, and all that’s left is the specific operation, which Fang Zhenyu no longer needs to handle.
“This hurdle is temporarily over, but there are still more difficult ones ahead,” Hong Min said with a sigh as she came out.
Ning Yufang frowned and asked, “Is his situation really that dire?”
“It’s not that bad. It’s just that we had too high expectations of him.” Since Ning Yufang was rarely home, she didn’t know much about the situation at home, so Hong Min explained it to her.
Ning Yufang quickly understood. She said casually, "What's the big deal if he quits his job? At most, we'll support him, and it'll save him from working so hard all the time."
"That's right. Not to mention we still have the Oriental Group, even with the income from this No. 15 island, although we can't be as extravagant as before, living a normal life isn't difficult." Another sexy woman came out of the room; it was Ning Yuzhi, the youngest of the Ning family. This little girl, after several years of being pampered by Fang Zhenyu, had become more mature than her older sisters, with a more alluring figure and more revealing clothing. Now, she was only wearing a pink gauze dress, almost exposing her high breasts and full private parts.
Hong Min looked at her with envy and said, "If he's the kind of person who's content with an ordinary life, then of course it's fine, but would he want to live like that?"
Looking at Ning Yuzhi's nipples, which were perky and as lovely as ripe grapes from the satisfaction of her desire, Ning Yufang reached out and pinched them, laughing, "Our fifth sister wishes he would do nothing but stay home with her."
Ning Yuzhi squealed and playfully fought with her sister to hide her embarrassment. Ning Yufang was right; that was truly what she thought. As long as Fang Zhenyu was home and she didn't have to work, she would be with him, sometimes even switching shifts for him. With Du Qingqing and Liao Meiling's help, switching shifts was even easier for her. After the branch office at the port was established, she simply transferred there with Du and Liao, so she spent even more time with Fang Zhenyu than Ning Yufen.
The women knew, of course, that Fang Zhenyu wouldn't be content with loneliness, and that developing the port was his greatest wish, so they were all worried about the difficulties he would face. Except for Ning Yuzhi, who remained silent, the others shared all the methods they could think of, but they still hadn't come up with a solution.
At some point, Ning Yufen emerged from the inner room. She was also listening quietly, but unlike Ning Yuzhi's worried expression, her face showed confidence in the future.
"Big sister, is he asleep?" Ning Yufang finally noticed Ning Yufen.
"Asleep."
"You heard what I said earlier, right? What should we do?" Ning Yufang seemed completely at a loss.
"I think you've all misplaced your positions," Ning Yufen said calmly.
"Misplaced their positions?" Hong Min stared at Ning Yufen in astonishment, and the other women also turned their gazes to her.
Ning Yufen ignored their gazes and sat down on the sofa, legs together. She naturally pulled her short nightgown up to cover her knees before saying, "You all know what kind of person our husband is. For the past ten years, he's overcome countless difficulties on his own. He always makes the best choices at crucial moments. What he's facing now is certainly not like what he faced when he first graduated. So what we need to do is not offer him advice, but prepare all the necessary materials and let him make the decision."
Ning Yufen's words touched the hearts of the women, especially Zhan Dajun and Hong Min. They had always thought they had given Fang Zhenyu a lot of advice, but now, looking back, most of those so-called advice were things Fang Zhenyu had already thought of, just leaving himself an opportunity to speak. Many more ideas came to them with his prompting.
Hong Min looked at Ning Yufen, who, like the others, wore transparent nightgowns but appeared as if she were wearing luxurious attire, and recalled how dignified Ning Yufen's posture had been when she sat down. A feeling of admiration welled up within her. She had never heard Ning Yufen say anything before, and although she knew Ning Yufen was somewhat famous for her writing, she rarely produced any outstanding works. Seeing Ning Yufen almost always serving Fang Zhenyu, she had assumed Ning Yufen stayed by Fang Zhenyu's side because she was infertile. Now it seemed Ning Yufen had been silently supporting Fang Zhenyu all along; she was the one who had made the greatest contribution to him.
"Yufen is right, let's prepare all the materials and intelligence for him," Zhan Dajun said.
Once the tone was set, everyone stopped discussing that aspect, but Zhan Dajun's eyes remained fixed on the lighthouse across the way. Hong Min found it strange and asked, "Dajun, why are you always looking at the lighthouse? You're not trying to count the number of tourists by how many people come in by cable car, are you? There are even more people coming by yacht."
"She? She wouldn't be that dedicated on this small island. She's remembered something memorable," Ning Yufang laughed.
"What is so memorable?" Hong Min became even more curious.
"Fang-jie, don't talk nonsense," Zhan Dajun blushed.
Seeing Zhan Dajun's expression, Hong Min knew what had happened. She was even more curious, so she said to Ning Yufang, "Sister Fang, tell us! Let's see how our husbands tamed Vice President Zhan!"
"Don't tell us!" Zhan Dajun said anxiously when he saw Ning Yufang about to speak.
Ning Yufang laughed, "How can you not tell us? And you have to tell us yourself, otherwise my future memoirs won't be as exciting."
The women all egged him on, and how could Zhan Dajun stop them? Of course, he wouldn't tell the story himself; in the end, Ning Yufang told it for him. Hearing such a romantic story, the women couldn't help but recall their first time with Fang Zhenyu, and then they started teasing each other, filling the room with moans and a spring-like atmosphere.
On Thursday, June 18, 1998, Chen Xiangdong
returned home with a gloomy face. Even when his beloved Leilei called him, he didn't respond, muttering, "That bastard Long Zhongxiang, he's trying to drive me crazy!"
His wife asked, "What's wrong with Long Zhongxiang?"
"He actually asked me to attend his daughter's wedding."
"It's just Jiaojiao's wedding, what's so upsetting about that?"
"Do you know who Long Jiaojiao is marrying?"
"Who?"
"Our former good son-in-law, Ye Peidong."
"What?" This time, it was his wife's turn to exclaim.
"Dad, it's really hard to blame Uncle Long. You usually like to attend your subordinates' celebratory ceremonies so much. He's your subordinate, and he invited so many people, but not you. It doesn't make sense." Chen Bingbing appeared at the study door with a smile on her face.
"Bingbing, you're back?" Chen Xiangdong's temper subsided as soon as he saw his daughter. He hugged Leilei and asked, "Why are you so free today?"
"I went back to the city for a meeting." Chen Bingbing sat down next to her father and advised, "Actually, someone like Ye Peidong isn't worth getting angry over."
Seeing that Chen Xiangdong had calmed down, Chen's mother went back to the kitchen to prepare food. Her daughter had finally come home today, and she wanted to cook her a good meal. Chen
Xiangdong looked at his daughter with a strange expression and asked, "You don't seem to hold any grudge against Ye Peidong and Long Jiaojiao at all. Are you really that open-minded?"
"What's wrong with that? I've found someone to rely on," Chen Bingbing replied casually. She was indeed in a good mood because she had told Fang Zhenyu that Leilei was his daughter during their intimate moment that day. Seeing his overjoyed expression, she felt that all her sacrifices were worthwhile.
Chen Xiangdong looked at his daughter's beautiful face, where the faint melancholy of the past had disappeared, replaced by a youthful glow. As someone who had been through it all, he knew it was the result of love. He asked casually, "Bingbing, you have a boyfriend? Why don't you introduce him to your father?"
"No, Dad, the person I'm referring to is Leilei," Chen Bingbing exclaimed in surprise, quickly trying to cover it up. She didn't want her father to know about her relationship with Fang Zhenyu.
Seeing that his daughter didn't admit it, Chen Xiangdong didn't press the matter. He simply said kindly, "I didn't properly vet Ye Peidong before. Although it's your own business and I won't interfere, if you really have someone in mind, tell me so I can give you some advice." He spoke very sincerely, which was understandable, given how Ye Peidong treated Chen Bingbing, which had also hurt him.
Chen Bingbing noticed her father's guilt and said, "Dad, don't take it to heart. I was blind when it came to Ye Peidong. In the future, if I really want to find someone, I won't be so hasty. However," she chuckled softly, "I won't get married again."
"Nonsense! You're so young, how can you live your whole life alone?" Chen's mother, carrying dishes, overheard Chen Bingbing's words and said.
Surprisingly, Chen Xiangdong didn't object. Instead, he said, "Let's not talk about these trivial things. Bingbing is back, let's have a proper meal."
His words silenced Chen's mother and Chen Bingbing, and the three of them played with Leilei while eating, chatting about other interesting things. Most of the time, Chen Xiangdong asked Chen Bingbing about the situation at Linhai Port.
After dinner, the nanny went to wash the dishes, and Chen's mother took Leilei out to play. Chen Xiangdong then called Chen Bingbing into the study.
"Dad, what do you want to tell me?" Chen Bingbing sat opposite her father, looking somewhat uneasy.
Chen Xiangdong smiled and said, "Don't be so nervous. Dad just wants to know who won my precious daughter's heart. Is it something you can't tell Dad?"
"Dad," Chen Bingbing called out, unsure how to answer.
"Can't you say it? Or is the other person not good enough? It doesn't matter. As long as he's a good person and treats you well, that's enough. Dad isn't some old-fashioned person who insists on matching social status." Chen Xiangdong appeared very calm.
Chen Bingbing thought and thought, then gritted her teeth and said, "If my daughter finds a married man and has no intention of marrying me, what will you think of me, Dad?"
"Really?" A sharp glint flashed in Chen Xiangdong's eyes as he stared directly at Chen Bingbing.
Chen Bingbing bravely met his gaze and said, "It really is."
"It's Fang Zhenyu
, isn't it?" Chen Xiangdong said, as if to say something shocking. "You, how did you know?" Chen Bingbing was taken aback; she couldn't believe she had revealed Fang Zhenyu's existence.
"Fang Zhenyu, huh? I'll deal with you." Chen Xiangdong said fiercely. He hadn't initially suspected it was him, but during the dinner table discussion about the port, Chen Bingbing's face lit up whenever she mentioned Fang Zhenyu, making him think of this possibility.
"You... this has nothing to do with him. My daughter went to him herself."
"So, you really love him. And him? Does he love you?"
"Yes!" Chen Bingbing said with absolute certainty.
"Then why doesn't he divorce Ning Yufang and marry you?"
"As long as I love him, and he loves me, and we're happy together, why does it have to be a formal relationship?"
"What if Ning Yufang finds out about you two?"
"Sister Yufang already knows."
"What?"
"We're still getting along very well." Chen Bingbing looked very relaxed. Originally, she thought her secret relationship with Fang Zhenyu was difficult, but Fang Zhenyu took her home and told Ning Yufang about their affair. Ning Yufang not only didn't reject her but also welcomed her, and even told her that Xu Xiangjun was in the same situation.
"No way! How can my daughter, Chen Xiangdong's daughter, be someone's mistress?" Although Chen Xiangdong wasn't as angry as he was when he first heard the news, he still couldn't accept it.
Seeing her father like this, Chen Bingbing became even calmer. Since her father already knew about her relationship with Fang Zhenyu, she would take this opportunity to get him to agree to let her stay with Fang Zhenyu forever. She vaguely knew about her father's affair with Zhang Hong and Chen Chunyan, but she also knew that given her father's personality, he couldn't use that to blackmail her. However, she had another option: Xu Xiangjun. So she said, "Dad, I know you're concerned about your reputation, and with your current position, it's hard for you to accept this fact. But how do you compare to Uncle Xu?"
"Uncle Xu? You mean Secretary Guanghua? What does this have to do with him?" Chen Xiangdong sensed something was amiss and asked suspiciously.
"Sister Xiang has been by Zhenyu's side for several years."
"Really? Even if something like that happened, Secretary Guanghua certainly wouldn't know." Chen Xiangdong couldn't believe his ears, but considering the various signs that Xu Guanghua and Wu Rong came to Linhai, it wasn't surprising at all that such a thing had happened.
“Dad, after what happened with Ye Peidong, I’ve completely come to terms with it. I’ll focus my energy on my career. As for my family, things are already very good as they are. It’s not easy to find true love in this world. Now I love him, and he loves me. We, including Xiangjie, get along very harmoniously, happily, and contentedly. What’s the point of having a title if we can’t have happiness?” Chen Bingbing said softly, her voice small but firm. After speaking, she left the study.
Chen Xiangdong didn’t call his daughter back. He just stared blankly at the ceiling, his eyes wide open, lost in thought.
On Friday, June 26, 1998,
Wang Juan from the port area had finished dinner and watched some television, but couldn’t concentrate. She put on a coat, thinking of going for a walk.
“Juan, where are you going so late?” her father, Wang Shouye, asked.
“Just going for a walk,” Wang Juan said.
"It's going to rain soon, don't go so far." On the one hand, his daughter was grown up and sensible; on the other hand, the port was very safe, so there was no need to worry about anything happening. Wang Shouye did not stop her.
Wang Juan responded and went downstairs.
Walking along the paved path, she exited the gate of Jinhua New Village. Across the street lay the bustling port area, its lights just coming on. Although rain was imminent, the area was still very lively. She strolled towards it. The changes at the port delighted her. If her father hadn't come to pick her up today, she would have almost forgotten her own home.
Wang Juan had been away from Linhai Port for almost four years. During her four years of university, she had devoted herself entirely to her studies, spending her holidays doing practical work in the community without returning home. Now, she had finally graduated, and because of her excellent grades, she had been recommended to study abroad. She had originally planned to go abroad after leaving school, but after thinking about it, she returned. On one hand, she wanted to see her family whom she hadn't seen for four years; on the other hand, although the port had held some sad memories for her, it also held a relationship she would never forget.
"Is he alright?" Wang Juan answered the greetings of familiar villagers as she walked aimlessly. The only reason she hadn't returned for these four years was that Fang Zhenyu had ultimately failed to give her what she most desired. She had initially tried to harden her heart and ignore him, glancing at her parents briefly before leaving. But once home, seeing the thriving scene at the port, she couldn't help but think of him again. However, how could she possibly ask her parents for more details?
Actually, many people had pursued her in university. Initially, she accepted their advances with the mindset Fang Zhenyu had suggested, but ultimately, she couldn't find the feeling she had with Fang Zhenyu. So, aside from casual flings with classmates, she poured all her energy into her studies.
A clap of thunder sounded, and the rain began to fall heavily. Wang Juan woke up with a start, only to find herself already in front of the Wanghai Tower. She looked around and ran towards the pavilion on the artificial hill in the garden beside the tower. But before she reached the pavilion, she bumped into someone's arms, letting out a cry of "Ouch!"
"Are you alright?" the person asked, helping her up.
"I'm fine, brother-in-law, it's you!" Hearing the voice, Wang Juan already knew who it was, and seeing his face, she instinctively hugged him tightly.
"Juan, is that you?" Fang Zhenyu recognized Wang Juan and didn't push her away.
"It's me, I'm back." Wang Juan choked up a little. She could hear the surprise in his voice, and she snuggled her full body into Fang Zhenyu's arms. The torrential rain poured down on them, but Wang Juan seemed oblivious. All the resentment she had felt for him before seemed to vanish in that embrace. All she felt was this man she loved so deeply.
Fang Zhenyu carried her to the pavilion, lifted her head, and asked, "When did you get back? How did you get here?"
"I... I just arrived today." Although it was summer, the cool rain still made Wang Juan shiver, causing her to hug Fang Zhenyu even tighter.
"Let's talk in my office, okay?" Fang Zhenyu noticed Wang Juan shivering and hugged her even tighter, suggesting.
"Okay."
So, the two went upstairs arm in arm, attracting the attention of the security guards along the way.
"Dry yourself off and change your clothes first." Back in the lounge, Fang Zhenyu brought Wang Juan a towel and clean clothes, but his eyes lingered on her. Wang Juan wasn't wearing many clothes to begin with, and they were very thin. After being soaked by the rain, her curvaceous figure was revealed. Southern girls are generally not very tall, but judging from her high breasts, they were probably even larger than Xu Qiang's.
Seeing this, Wang Juan knew what he was looking at, so she smiled charmingly at him and asked, "Brother-in-law, am I more mature than I was four years ago?"
"Ah?" Fang Zhenyu snapped out of his reverie, looked away, and returned his gaze to Wang Juan's beautiful face. He remembered what he had said to her on the day she left for university, and seeing her eager eyes, he said, "You are mature, not only physically but also mentally. After all these years away, you should have found your love by now."
"I have found her, but I don't know if she belongs to me," Wang Juan said wistfully, throwing the towel and clothes she was holding onto the bed and going to unbutton Fang Zhenyu's also wet clothes. "You're soaking wet too, shall we take a shower together?"
"Juan." Fang Zhenyu was somewhat at a loss. He knew that a large part of the reason Wang Juan hadn't returned for four years was because he had hurt her, but he already had too many women and didn't want to get involved in any more romantic entanglements. But if he refused again, he was afraid Wang Juan would never forgive him.
"Do you still think I'm not mature enough?" Wang Juan tilted her head back, her delicate hand gently stroking Fang Zhenyu's broad chest.
"Of course not," Fang Zhenyu replied, pulling Wang Juan into the bathroom. He already had enough women; what harm was there in having one more? Why hurt a girl who loved him so deeply?
Clothes were tossed onto the floor, revealing Wang Juan's smooth body. Her breasts were round and large, the rosy nipples standing erect. Her waist was slender, and at the curve of her body, a round navel was deeply recessed. Her mysterious triangle was covered in thick, long pubic hair, seemingly obscuring the entire treasure cave. Perhaps it was because she had lived in the north for several years, but her originally slightly dark skin had become delicate and white, its beauty enhanced by the misty warmth of the water.
"Brother-in-law, am I beautiful?" Wang Juan stepped forward, helping the stunned Fang Zhenyu undress.
"Beautiful! Absolutely beautiful!" Fang Zhenyu wrapped his arms around her, kneading her high, upturned buttocks, his body moving in sync with her undressing movements. Soon, he was naked before Wang Juan.
Wang Juan only removed his shirt before kissing him, and quite proactively at that, kissing him from his head and neck down to his lower abdomen. Then she unbuckled his belt and continued kissing him down, finally kissing his already erect member, occasionally letting out a seductive moan.
Fang Zhenyu kicked off his pants, one hand fiddling with her round buttocks and cleft, the other moving to her breasts, kneading her large breasts. He could tell that although they were large and firm, they were too soft, indicating they had been played with many times. Judging from Wang Juan's kissing technique, he deduced she had been with men before. He didn't care about that, and became completely absorbed, actively pursuing her.
"Ah, so comfortable? So beautiful!" Wang Juan's reaction was intense, her body constantly twisting to meet Fang Zhenyu's fingers. His hands, still gentle, were moving faster and faster, his moans growing louder and more arousing.
Even though she was wet, Fang Zhenyu could feel the fluid flowing from her crotch. Seeing Wang Juan's wanton appearance, he couldn't resist any longer. He pushed her to the edge of the bathtub, parted her legs, and thrust his penis inside.
"Ouch!" Wang Juan cried out, her face contorted in pain, tears streaming down her cheeks.
Fang Zhenyu was startled and quickly pulled out. Strands of blood dripped onto the floor with the water. He realized his mistake; Wang Juan was still a virgin. He said guiltily, "I'm sorry, I..."
Wang Juan didn't let him finish, instead kissing his lips.
Fang Zhenyu lovingly carried her to the bed, his large hands caressing her smooth face, and asked, "Juan, why are you acting so wanton?"
"I am wanton," Wang Juan said shyly. When she first arrived at university, with her beauty, many men pursued her, and she tried accepting their advances, letting them touch every part of her body. But she could never find that feeling of wanting to merge with Fang Zhenyu, even with several other boys. Therefore, she preferred to be a prostitute for her boyfriend rather than let them take her virginity.
Although Fang Zhenyu didn't know her situation, he understood that she had saved her virginity for him. Moved, he used his lips, tongue, teeth, and hands to relentlessly attack Wang Juan's sensitive areas, bringing her to orgasm before even truly penetrating her. Then, he held her tightly, letting his penis linger at the source of her passion, and gently asked, "Juan, am I beautiful?"
"Mmm!" Wang Juan breathed heavily and offered a kiss.
"May I go in again?"
"Of course, you're not just going to leave me alone after you've already exposed me, are you?" Wang Juan reverted to her wanton manner.
And so, a torrential downpour swept through the lounge, echoing the thunder and lightning outside.
On Friday, June 26, 1998, in the municipal party committee meeting room
, Zhong Yuguang had just entered his home when the rain began to pour down. He handed his briefcase to Ning Yuheng, saying thankfully, "Luckily I got back early, otherwise I would have been soaked to the bone." He sat down on the sofa, stretching out. Having just finished implementing and meticulously arranging this year's flood relief work, he felt incredibly relaxed.
Ning Yuheng helped him put his briefcase away, made him a cup of tea, and laughed, "Serves you right! Who told you to be out having fun and not come back until the middle of the night! But even if you, the Party Secretary, had a car, your subordinates wouldn't let you get soaked. What are you complaining about to a commoner like me for? Go take a shower."
Zhong Yuguang smiled bitterly, "Fine, I only said one sentence and I got so much complaining." After taking a sip of tea, he was about to go take a shower when the phone rang. "Who is it?" he shouted as he picked up the receiver. He had been busy all day arranging the flood relief efforts, and now that he had just returned, the phone was ringing again, which made him angry.
"Is this Secretary Zhong? This is Fang Yuqiong." A sweet female voice came from the receiver.
Upon hearing it was Fang Yuqiong, Zhong Yuguang dared not shout anymore. Even though Fang Yuqiong was his capable subordinate, given her close relationship with Ning Yuheng, he wouldn't dare. So he asked as gently as possible, "It's Yuqiong. What's wrong?"
"There might be something wrong with the standard seawall," Fang Yuqiong said anxiously.
"No, it's already completed on time and is waiting for inspection!" Zhong Yuguang was shocked. It was the rainy season, and floods could arrive at any time. If there were problems with the standard seawall, it would be a serious matter.
“But I just received a call from Fu Xiaohua, a reporter from the Linhai Daily, saying that the completion date reported in the newspaper is seriously inaccurate. The newspaper said it was fully completed a day ahead of schedule on the 14th, but in fact, some sections were only completed yesterday. I called Deputy Director Zhang Wanfu, but couldn't reach him. I also checked with other people in the bureau, and it's true, as Fu Xiaohua said, that the newspaper used a draft stamped and submitted by the Water Resources Bureau. I'm rushing back from the provincial capital now, but the heavy rain is coming. What do you think we should do about this?” Fang Yuqiong said. Fang Yuqiong was studying at the Provincial Party School, and the seawall project was temporarily being overseen by Deputy Director Zhang Wanfu of the Water Resources Bureau.
Zhong Yuguang, of course, knew what a 10-day delay in completion meant. The seawall's load-bearing capacity hadn't reached the predetermined standard, and there was a risk of it collapsing at any time. The flood control work would have to be redeployed. He said, "Okay, you go back first. It's windy and rainy, be careful. I'll check, we'll keep in touch." Hanging up, he told Ning Yuheng, "Help me tell the driver to come over." Without waiting for Ning Yuheng's reply, he used his cell phone to notify his secretary, Xiao Gao, to bring all the heads of the construction teams involved in the standard seawall construction and all personnel from the Water Resources Bureau to the Municipal Party Committee meeting room.
Zhong Yuguang went downstairs while calling Zhang Wanfu, but as Fang Yuqiong had said, no one answered at home, and his phone was off. He was furious and cursed. The torrential rain made the already dimly lit stairwell even darker, and he almost collapsed there. When he got downstairs, the car hadn't arrived yet, so he called several relevant unit leaders, asking them to attend as well. After notifying several, the car finally arrived.
"To the Municipal Party Committee meeting room," Zhong Yuguang said, and continued making calls.
The wind and rain were fierce. Although the municipal party committee wasn't far from the Linhai Hotel, it still took nearly twenty minutes to get there. Before getting out of the car, Zhong Yuguang told the driver, "Go find Zhang Wanfu right now. No matter what method you use, get him to the conference room as quickly as possible."
The driver cursed inwardly, not at Zhong Yuguang, but at Zhang Wanfu. He knew that if Zhang Wanfu hadn't acted recklessly, he wouldn't have let Zhong Yuguang pull him away from his girlfriend's affectionate embrace and brave the wind and rain to find him. Besides, they didn't even know where he was!
Zhong Yuguang went to his office, told Chen Xiangdong about the situation over the phone, exchanged opinions with Chen Xiangdong, and then called Yu Suibo and Luo Weisheng.
When Zhong Yuguang arrived at the conference room, almost everyone involved was already there. Seeing his gloomy face, the noise that had been drowning out the wind and rain outside fell silent, and all eyes were on him. Ignoring the fact that Chen Xiangdong and Yu Suibo hadn't arrived yet, he loudly asked, "Has Zhang Wanfu arrived?" Upon discovering that Zhang Wanfu hadn't arrived, his face turned even more ashen.
A few minutes later, Zhang Wanfu finally stumbled in, shouting, "Secretary Zhong, I'm here!"
"Good, good!" A smile actually appeared on Zhong Yuguang's face, but his eyes were full of anger. His right hand was already raised, about to slap Zhang Wanfu, but fortunately Chen Xiangdong, who had just arrived, called out to him, and he didn't strike.
Soon after, Yu Suibo and Luo Weisheng also arrived.
Zhong Yuguang stopped Zhang Wanfu, who was looking for a seat, and made him stand in front of the platform, and began to speak: "It's the middle of the night, with thunder and rain, and you still call everyone here for a meeting. It's all thanks to our Deputy Director Zhang." Then, staring at Zhang Wanfu, he asked, "Deputy Director Zhang, tell me, when was our standard Haihe River embankment fully completed?"
"It was completed on the 14th!" Zhang Wanfu said tremblingly.
"Nonsense." A woman's voice rang out from the doorway. "One of the sections was only completed yesterday." The newcomer was Fu Xiaohua. She took off her raincoat and tossed it aside, revealing a heavily pregnant woman, who appeared to be four or five months along. She approached Zhang Wanfu and recounted what she knew.
Fu Xiaohua was a renowned journalist in Linhai. Her articles mostly exposed the city's problems, revealing not only solid facts and unique insights but also proposing many feasible solutions. Therefore, she was deeply trusted by the citizens, and many unit leaders wanted her to conduct research in their units. Upon hearing her words, the entire room erupted in commotion.
After a long while, Zhong Yuguang finally calmed everyone down and asked Zhang Wanfu, "Zhang Wanfu, is what Reporter Fu said true?"
"Yes, yes," large beads of cold sweat rolled down Zhang Wanfu's forehead.
“Since that’s the case,” Zhong Yuguang turned to the large group of people below and said, “Anyone in your area who hasn’t completed their work on time, please step forward.”
A short while later, a pale-faced man emerged from the crowd—it was Qi Jun, the manager of Huayang Company. He approached Zhong Yuguang, trembling, and said, “It’s our company.”
“Anyone else?” Zhong Yuguang’s gaze swept across the room. Seeing that no one else stepped forward, he glanced at Zhang Wanfu, and seeing that he didn’t say anything, he said, “Good, good, Manager Qi, you have the guts to do it, and the guts to admit it. You’re a real man.”
“Secretary Zhong, I…” Qi Jun wanted to say something, but didn’t.
Zhong Yuguang didn’t let him say anything more, but instead looked at Yu Suibo and asked, “Mayor Yu, after such an incident, before Director Fang returns, shouldn’t we suspend Zhang Wanfu for investigation?”
Since entering, Yu Suibo’s eyes hadn’t left Zhang Wanfu. Although Zhang Wanfu wasn't anyone close to him, he'd heard from others that Zhang was leaning towards him, and he'd been somewhat tempted, even helping him out on some matters. He never expected things to turn out like this. Initially, he still intended to protect him, but as soon as Zhong Yuguang spoke, he changed his mind, saying seriously, "Of course, someone as irresponsible as him is indeed unsuitable for a leadership position." He paused, then loudly announced Zhang Wanfu's removal from his position as deputy director, ordering him to participate in flood relief efforts first, and to be held accountable after the floods subsided. He also announced that a section chief from the Water Resources Bureau would temporarily assume Zhang Wanfu's authority.
Hearing this outcome elicited varying reactions from all sides. Leaders of the relevant departments were all extremely cautious, fearing they might have failed in their duties. The project owners, who were generally obedient, were fine, but those who had tried to pull off some tricks on the seawall were terrified, inwardly cursing Zhang Wanfu and Qi Jun. Zhong Yuguang, though not entirely satisfied, said nothing. The most furious was Zhang Wanfu. His actions were partly due to Yu Suibo, but now Yu Suibo had dismissed him, so his eyes were filled with resentment as he looked at Yu Suibo.
Zhong Yuguang paid no attention to any of this. Seeing that Yu Suibo had dealt with Zhang Wanfu, he addressed everyone present: "Comrades, the importance of the standard seawall to our city is self-evident. Can a seawall that hasn't been inspected and approved withstand this massive flood? We're not sure! Perhaps our seawall is indeed of high quality, but such an incident should serve as a warning. The torrential rains have already reached our city, and according to meteorological and hydrological forecasts, the flood peak will arrive in the next few days—a flood that occurs only once every fifty years. Therefore, I order..." Zhong Yuguang raised his voice: "From..." "From now on, each section will send people to be on duty on the seawall 24 hours a day—two from the engineering team and one from the water resources bureau—to inspect the seawall. If any abnormalities are found, report them immediately. Manager Qi, you should send a few more people; you will be fully responsible. If any problems arise, you will be held solely accountable."
Zhong Yuguang ignored the discussions below and turned to consult Yu Suibo and the other two. Seeing that they had no response, he loudly said, "Act immediately! Meeting adjourned!"
After everyone left noisily, several reporters from the television station wanted to interview Zhong Yuguang. One of them asked Zhong Yuguang, "Secretary Zhong, what do you think about the reporting?"
"Report the facts," Zhong Yuguang said without hesitation.
"Secretary Zhong, we can't report it now," Fu Xiaohua said hurriedly.
"Why?" Zhong Yuguang asked, puzzled.
Fu Xiaohua said, "Reporting the facts is necessary for this kind of thing, but reporting it now will cause panic. I think it's better to wait until after the flood to report it."
"I also think that's better," Chen Xiangdong said.
Zhong Yuguang agreed with Fu Xiaohua's point and said to the reporters, "You all heard that, right? This is discipline. I don't want the citizens to know about this during the flood relief efforts. You should report on more exemplary cases of flood relief."
"Understood," the reporters replied and left. Yu
Suibo breathed a sigh of relief. Reporting now would be a major blow to Huayang Company, and even its parent company, Zhenhua Group, but he couldn't go against Zhong Yuguang. After today, he could manipulate the reporting to minimize the impact on Zhenhua Group. Zhong Yuguang, however, was
oblivious to all this. His mind was already on the seawall. He said, "Let's go to the seawall and take a look." With that, he led the way out of the meeting room.
When he reached the gate, he saw that the rain had stopped, but the sky was as dark as the bottom of a pot. Zhong Yuguang's heart was as gloomy as the sky.
On Monday, June 29, 1998,
Zhong Yuguang walked along the seawall of the Jinhua River, feeling much more relaxed. After the fierce battle the previous night, the standard seawall had finally withstood the severe test. A flood that occurs only once every fifty years, exceeding the warning level by 8 meters—it was no easy feat.
Most of the rescue workers had already gone home to rest, and the remaining personnel on duty on the seawall were drowsy in the sunlight. Zhong Yuguang's gaze was fixed on the surging Jinhua River flowing south. The sunlight shone on the turbid water, illuminating the floating debris clearly. The dead pigs and chickens were indeed shocking. However, the water level had receded, now only 2 meters above the warning level. Although it was still raining upstream, the rainfall had decreased, and the next flood peak would not be as severe as last night. If there were no unforeseen circumstances, Linhai City had successfully weathered this flood.
Seeing Zhong Yuguang's rare relaxed demeanor, Xiao Gao said, "Secretary Zhong, I've made up my mind. I
'll go to the port." He had been following Zhong Yuguang for almost five years, and Zhong Yuguang had promised him that after the flood, he would be assigned to a grassroots position. "Good, you'll be the deputy director of the management committee. You'd better make me proud; Lin Heng is already the head of a district."
Lin Heng was Chen Xiangdong's former secretary. After serving as deputy director at the port for a while, he had now taken over as the head of Chaoyang District. Xiao Gao understood Zhong Yuguang's meaning and said confidently, "Secretary, don't worry, I won't let you down."
Zhong Yuguang smiled as he walked forward, "I know you can. You're very talented, but you lack practical experience. Go there and learn from Fang Zhenyu and others; you'll be successful."
As they spoke, they arrived at Huayang Company's premises. Xiao Gao was about to say something when he heard someone arguing.
"President Ye, I didn't."
"Really not?" It was Ye Peidong's voice, high-pitched and somewhat anxious.
Someone noticed Zhong Yuguang's arrival and called out, "Secretary Zhong, hello!"
"Good morning, everyone, you've all worked hard," Zhong Yuguang replied. He also noticed Ye Peidong and went up to him, saying, "President Ye, it's great that you've come to the seawall yourself." His tone was full of praise.
"Not at all, not at all. Secretary Zhong, you worked so hard last night, shouldn't you go back and rest?" Ye Peidong stepped forward and shook Zhong Yuguang's hand, appearing very warm.
"I can't rest easy without coming to check on things. Fortunately, everything is over now."
"Yes, but with a good secretary like you who leads from the front, even if the flood is huge, we will definitely be able to overcome it," Ye Peidong flattered.
Zhong Yuguang was secretly pleased, but said aloud, "What can I do alone? The key is these citizens who are willing to sacrifice!" He pointed to the emergency response team members who had stayed behind to keep watch.
Ye Peidong was about to say a few more words of praise when a staff member on duty rushed over and shouted, "Manager Qi, something bad has happened! The seawall over there is leaking." Obviously, he hadn't seen Zhong Yuguang there.
"What?" Ye Peidong and Qi Jun exclaimed in unison.
Zhong Yuguang was also very anxious and hurriedly said, "Where is it? Take us to see it quickly." The seepage in the dike could be large or small. Under normal circumstances, it would be easy to handle, but now the water level was higher than the warning line, making it difficult to deal with. He hoped nothing would go wrong at this critical moment.
"Oh, Secretary Zhong!" The man panicked when he saw Zhong Yuguang. He had never met such a high-ranking official before, especially not at a time like this.
"What's the panic? Hurry up and take us to see it!" Qi Jun shouted at the man, then introduced him to Zhong Yuguang: "This is Lu Shilin, an engineer from our company."
Zhong Yuguang saw that the man was around fifty years old, very thin, and his skin was almost sickly pale. He held his hand and comforted him, "Don't worry, let's go and take a look first, and then we'll figure out what methods to use to reinforce it."
Lu Shilin then calmed down and led them to the seepage area. The seepage point was halfway up the dam, and much of the cement between the stones had already been washed away. Lu Shilin said, "It's much bigger than before."
"How could this happen?" Ye Peidong angrily demanded of Qi Jun.
"I... I don't know either," Qi Jun said timidly.
Lu Shilin, however, looked at Zhong Yuguang and said, "One reason is that the cement grade is insufficient, but more importantly, the filling material inside the dam is substandard."
Ye Peidong's face immediately changed, and he roared at Qi Jun, "You, how could you do such a shoddy job?"
"I, I..." Qi Jun looked at Zhong Yuguang, then glanced at Ye Peidong, unable to answer.
Zhong Yuguang coldly looked at Ye and Qi and said, "Now is not the time to assign blame. Engineer Lu, what measures should be taken? Will the dam collapse?"
Lu Shilin thought for a moment, explained the necessary measures, and then said, "If the water level continues to drop, it shouldn't collapse, but if it remains at the current level or continues to rise, the situation is dire."
Zhong Yuguang silently prayed for the water level to drop quickly, and said, "Alright, act immediately. Do everything you can to ensure the safety of the dike. Ye Peidong, Qi Jun, you two will be responsible for supervising the reinforcement of the dike. Xiao Gao, notify the garrison to prepare to provide support if necessary."
"Yes," the three responded in unison and began working.
Zhong Yuguang asked the others to report the situation to the flood control and disaster relief headquarters, while he himself faced the surging river, lost in thought. When it was time for lunch, Xiao Gao called him back to eat, but he didn't go back. He ate fast food with the people on the construction site until all the necessary materials arrived and the garrison troops also arrived, only then did he breathe a sigh of relief.
"How's the water level?" he asked the person in charge of hydrology.
"It's already dropped half a meter, and it's continuing to fall."
"Good, keep monitoring. Check other areas as well." He instructed, and seeing his men comply, he wanted to get in his car and go home to rest. He had barely slept since last night; he was utterly exhausted.
Just as he stepped into the car, his phone rang again. Zhong Yuguang answered, asking, "What is it?" Then he exclaimed in surprise, his face turning extremely pale.
"Secretary Zhong, what's wrong?" Xiao Gao asked cautiously.
"The upstream Ludong Reservoir has breached its banks, and the flood peak will arrive in three hours." Zhong Yuguang said, then slumped into his seat, speechless for a long time.
Xiao Gao was stunned. The Ludong Reservoir was the largest reservoir upstream. Its breach would cause the Jinhua River's water level to rise by at least 2-3 meters. According to what Lu Shilin had just said, even maintaining the current water level couldn't guarantee the dike wouldn't breach. If it rose further, wouldn't the dike be in grave danger? He asked anxiously, "Secretary, what should we do?"
Zhong Yuguang pondered for a long time, and then spoke on the phone with Yu Suibo and others for quite some time before sitting up and saying, "There's not much to say. The priority is to protect the dike. Also, we must be prepared for a breach." After a pause, he added, "You can entrust the dike protection to Ye Peidong and his team, with the assistance of the garrison. The remaining task is to persuade the citizens to evacuate."
"Yes," Xiao Gao replied and went to make the arrangements.
Zhong Yuguang got out of the car, and everyone gathered around. They all knew about the breach at the Ludong Reservoir. Zhong Yuguang got straight to the point: "Everyone knows about it now. How to minimize the losses depends on our work." Then, he assigned tasks. After
everyone received their assignments and left, Zhong Yuguang sighed and walked towards the construction site where the rescue was underway. Although he had entrusted the dike protection to Ye Peidong and Qi Jun, how could he be at ease? Despite their best efforts, the seawall finally breached, and the roaring floodwaters surged in, instantly toppling nearby work sheds and rapidly advancing towards the city. At a command, a large contingent of soldiers jumped into the raging river.
Zhong Yuguang shook off those trying to pull him back and jumped in as well, quickly forming a human wall with the others. After nearly ten hours of fighting, the floodwaters gradually receded, and the breach was finally sealed. Fortunately, this was only in the suburbs, and the number of residents needing to be evacuated was not large. Because preparations were thorough and the floodwaters were not particularly high, there was considerable property damage and some injuries, but no fatalities. (Volume Nine) Chapter Eight Misfortunes Never Come Alone Chapter Eight Misfortunes Never Come Alone Thursday, July 2, 1998 Fang Zhenyu, the port manager, leaned against the bed, eating the porridge Ning Yuzhi fed him while listening to Hong Min report on the port's situation during the storm. His once full and handsome face was pitifully thin, his cheekbones protruding high, and his eyes deeply sunken. Thanks to thorough preparation, the storm did not cause much damage to the port. However, Fang Zhenyu, as usual, fought on the front line of disaster relief. The wind and rain, coupled with excessive fatigue, made him fall ill. "Hmm, finally made it through. Tell Secretary Jia to compile a list of the disaster relief heroes who emerged this time, give them high praise, and provide them with the necessary material rewards." After listening to Hong Min's report and finishing his porridge, Fang Zhenyu said after Ning Yuzhi wiped his mouth clean. "Yes." Hong Min responded and was about to leave, while Ning Yuzhi was about to lean into Fang Zhenyu's arms, when a knock sounded at the door. "Who is it?" Hong Min asked unhappily as she opened the door. Normally, few people came to Fang Zhenyu's office during his rest time, and after Fang Zhenyu fell ill, she had ordered that no one should disturb him unless there was a special reason. "Secretary Zhong, is that you?" Hong Min was stunned when she opened the door; it was Zhong Yuguang. Zhong Yuguang chuckled, "Not only me, but there's someone even more important." As he spoke, he stepped aside, revealing Wang Peiying behind him. Hong Min was even more surprised and exclaimed, "Auntie, what brings you here all of a sudden?" She quickly ushered Wang Peiying inside and informed Fang Zhenyu. "Mom," Fang Zhenyu and Ning Yuzhi called out in unison, Fang Zhenyu trying to get out of bed. Without a word, Wang Peiying hurried to Fang Zhenyu's bedside, pressed him down as he tried to sit up, and gently stroked his face with trembling hands, tears streaming down her face: "Zhenyu, Zhenyu, this whole family is waiting for you to support them, how can you not take care of yourself at all?" "Mom, I'm fine." Seeing Wang Peiying's love for him like it was for her own son, Fang Zhenyu felt a surge of warmth in his heart and tightly grasped Wang Peiying's hand. Ning Yuzhi quickly wiped away her mother's tears and comforted her: "Mom, brother-in-law is really fine, do n't worry, I'm here!" Wang Peiying stared at Ning Yuzhi, snorted, and said: "It's precisely because you're here that I'm worried. Zhenyu is so sick, and you didn't even tell the family." Fang Zhenyu hadn't told the family after falling ill; Wang Peiying only found out from relatives in Jinhua Village. She originally wanted to scold Ning Yuzhi a few more times, but remembering that Zhong Yuguang was still by her side, she kept quiet. Zhong Yuguang had been incredibly busy these past two days and didn't even know Fang Zhenyu was ill until Wang Peiying asked him for a car. Of course, as soon as he heard about it, he and Wang Peiying came immediately. Seeing them like this, he couldn't help but sigh; it wasn't easy to have a son-in-law who received such care from his mother-in-law. Only after they had all calmed down did he say, "Mom, Zhenyu is fine now, please forgive Fifth Sister." "Mom, I won't do it again," Ning Yuzhi also took the opportunity to snuggle into her mother's arms. Wang Peiying wasn't really angry. Seeing that Fang Zhenyu had almost recovered, she said, "Alright, let Zhenyu rest a bit more. Fifth Sister, come with me to your uncle's house." Then she turned to Zhong Yuguang and said, "After work this afternoon, I want Zhenyu to come back to the city with me." "Okay, Mom, I'll go back," Fang Zhenyu quickly agreed. "Mom, let me take you back to the village," Zhong Yuguang said, giving Fang Zhenyu a wink before leaving with Wang Peiying and Ning Yuzhi. "Mr. Fang, it seems Secretary Zhong has something to discuss with you." After they all left, Hong Min said to Fang Zhenyu, having also noticed Zhong Yuguang's glance. "Hmm." Fang Zhenyu was somewhat absent-minded. He knew Zhong Yuguang had come to see him, but he didn't understand why. Since Zhong Yuguang had dumped the port business on him, he seemed to have rarely made special trips to see him. Seeing his expression, Hong Min considerately said, "Don't worry about what it is. Rest for a bit first." "Alright!" Watching Hong Min leave the lounge with her belongings, Fang Zhenyu closed his eyes.

Zhong Yuguang did indeed have business with Fang Zhenyu; otherwise, he wouldn't have personally escorted Wang Peiying to the port. After delivering Wang Peiying to Wang Shouye's house, he returned to Fang Zhenyu. "What do you think I should do?" After explaining the situation, Zhong Yuguang looked at Fang Zhenyu with some confusion.
"Is that really true?" Fang Zhenyu asked after listening for a while, deep in thought. Zhong Yuguang was referring to the breach in the standard seawall. The Municipal Commission for Discipline Inspection had formed an investigation team to investigate, and it was now clear that the section contracted by Huayang Company was damaged due to shoddy workmanship, which they had admitted. However, someone had reported that Huayang Company's actions were instigated by high-ranking officials of Zhenhua Group.
"I don't want to believe it either," Zhong Yuguang sighed, "but from Qi Jun's tone, it seems possible." Although he and Ye Peidong had some conflicts, they had been friends for many years, and Ye Peidong had been invited by Zhong Yuguang to develop his business in Linhai. In any case, he didn't want him to get involved in this kind of thing.
Fang Zhenyu understood Zhong Yuguang's feelings and knew that Zhenhua Group was the third largest company in Linhai after the Port Development and Investment Corporation and Dongfang Group. If something happened to him, it would have a huge impact on both Linhai's economy and Zhong Yuguang himself. He couldn't help but ask, "Do you have any evidence?"
"No," Zhong Yuguang hesitated, "It's just... it's just that it's said they used Huayang's funds to bid for the port project, and Huayang was rushing to meet the deadline, which caused the problem."
"Then what do you want me to do?" Seeing Zhong Yuguang's hesitant manner, Fang Zhenyu was somewhat displeased.
"Sigh," Zhong Yuguang sighed deeply again and said, "I really don't want anything to happen to Zhenhua Group. But..." He didn't finish his sentence, and his gaze towards Fang Zhenyu shifted uncertainly.
Fang Zhenyu remained silent for a long time before saying, "Yuguang, I think your idea is somewhat inappropriate." He rarely addressed Zhong Yuguang by name, and seeing that he was about to object, he raised his voice slightly, saying, "Don't tell me your idea yet. Listen to me. Let's not talk about whether covering this up goes against your conscience; just consider the impact on your careers. Do you think such a big thing can be covered up?"
Zhong Yuguang fell silent. He did indeed want to cover it up. He had worked in Linhai for five years, and everything had gone very well. But this had happened just before he left—a truly disastrous mistake!
Seeing his expression, Fang Zhenyu said meaningfully, "Everything being good doesn't necessarily mean it's truly good. Perhaps a small flaw would actually be beneficial to you. Listen to me, not only will we not cover it up, but we will expose it with all our might."
"Brother is right, we can't do things that go against our conscience," Shangguan Wenxin said as she pushed open the door. "I'm sorry, I've been here for a while and eavesdropped on your conversation. But, Secretary Zhong, just as brother said, such a big matter can't be covered up even if you want to." She handed a document to Zhong Yuguang.
"What is this?" Zhong Yuguang was somewhat displeased. Firstly, Shangguan Wenxin had eavesdropped on his conversation with Fang Zhenyu; secondly, she had actually called him by his official title. He didn't understand why, as they were both Wang Peiying's sons-in-law, he never seemed to receive the same treatment as Fang Zhenyu.
"Take a look for yourself," Shangguan Wenxin said, pursing her lips.
Zhong Yuguang examined the materials in his hand closely and discovered that they contained detailed figures showing Zhenhua Group transferring funds from Huayang Company to participate in the port bidding process. Each transaction was clearly written down. He couldn't help but ask, "Wenxin, where did you get this information?"
Shangguan Wenxin replied, "It's absolutely true. As for where I got it, you don't need to worry about that." She had obtained this information from Tong Zhiwei during their intimate moment; how could she possibly reveal such a shameful secret!
Fang Zhenyu knew about her relationship with Tong Zhiwei and Tong Zhiwei's position in Zhenhua Group, so he understood where this came from. He said, "Yuguang, the materials provided by Wenxin are authentic. You handle it." Shangguan
Wenxin continued, "Also, that Manager Qi has a habit of recording phone calls. See if you can make a breakthrough in that area."
Hearing Shangguan Wenxin say this, Zhong Yuguang couldn't help but recall the conversation between Ye Peidong and Qi Jun that he had overheard at the seawall. He secretly rejoiced. If he had followed his original plan and pushed everything onto Qi Jun, he might have exposed everything. After all, the responsibility for the breach was considerable. If Qi Jun really had a recording of his conversation with Ye Peidong, Ye Peidong would definitely be implicated, and then he... Thinking of this, he broke out in a cold sweat. After a long while, he finally came to his senses and said, "Alright, that's settled then. No matter who's involved, they must be held accountable. Your port will fully cooperate with the investigation team."
Shangguan Wenxin was displeased that he was speaking in such an official tone. She was about to speak when she saw Fang Zhenyu's disapproving gaze and stopped. Fang Zhenyu said, "Okay. However, your investigation team should also delve deeper. This alone cannot prove anything."
"Okay, that's settled. I'll go back and make arrangements. Mom is waiting for you to take her back." Zhong Yuguang said, and then hurriedly took his leave.
"He's changed." Shangguan Wenxin said, watching Zhong Yuguang's retreating figure.
Fang Zhenyu said, "People always change. I just hope he doesn't change too much."
"But you haven't changed!" Shangguan Wenxin nestled into Fang Zhenyu's arms.
Fang Zhenyu chuckled, "Who said I haven't changed? I've become even more lustful." As he spoke, his large hand climbed onto Shangguan Wenxin's breasts, and a seductive moan rang out.
On Friday, July 3, 1998,
Ye Peidong left the Haitian Entertainment City, still seething with anger. He had invited Yu Suibo and Li Xiaokang to dinner that evening, but both of them had made excuses not to come. He ended up eating with Feng Zuquan, Tong Zhiwei, and Long Jiaojiao. Fortunately, Xie Xiangjie's attentive service calmed him down somewhat; otherwise, he probably would have been cursing.
"Peidong, don't get so angry. That's how officialdom is. There are plenty of people who add flowers to brocade, but how many who offer charcoal in the snow?" Long Jiaojiao nestled gently in his arms, comforting him as they got into the car.
"That's true, but they changed their minds too quickly. How come they immediately thought of me?" Ye Peidong said, pushing Long Jiaojiao away and starting the car.
Long Jiaojiao said, "That's how officials are. If you want them to associate with you again, you'll probably have to wait until the responsibility is determined."
"Damn it, if I needed them, they'd all hide away. I wouldn't want to serve them anymore!" Ye Peidong stepped on the gas, and the car shot off.
"You'll still need their help eventually. It's not worth getting angry over this," Long Jiaojiao said calmly.
Ye Peidong retorted angrily, "After this, I'd never deal with them again!" Distracted, he nearly crashed into the car in front of him. With a sudden stop, he slammed on the steering wheel, letting out a cry of pain.
Long Jiaojiao was also startled, but she had been careful while driving, so she avoided a collision. She asked with concern, "Are you alright?"
"I'm fine!" Ye Peidong replied, his anger subsiding considerably.
"I told you not to get angry at those people. Even without their help, it's not a big deal," Long Jiaojiao reassured him.
Ye Peidong drove slowly, sighing, "You have no idea, this isn't a trivial matter. If we don't find a way to control it at Huayang Company's level, I'm afraid I'll be waiting to go to jail."
"This is Huayang Company's business, what does it have to do with us?" Long Jiaojiao asked, puzzled.
"If only it were really like this." Ye Peidong seemed somewhat dejected.
Seeing him like this, Long Jiaojiao said, "It's not like that, is there some other inside story? But don't rush to say anything, drive carefully, let's talk about it when we get home."
"Hmm." Ye Peidong drove carefully, but he just couldn't concentrate. The instant the dike breached, he knew he was in trouble. Just as Fang Zhenyu and the others suspected, he had misappropriated funds meant for Huayang Company's dike construction for port bidding, and when Qi Jun demanded the funds back, he had said things he shouldn't have. At first, Ye Peidong didn't take it seriously, since it was only over the phone. But later, he heard that Qi Jun had a bad habit of recording conversations with important people. He couldn't be sure if his own conversation with Qi Jun had been recorded. That day, Zhong Yuguang saw him on the dike; he had gone to ask Qi Jun about it. Although Qi Jun vehemently denied it, no one knew for sure. If nothing had happened, it would have been fine, but now that such a big thing had occurred, he had to be careful.
Back home, Ye Peidong told Long Jiaojiao everything. After listening, Long Jiaojiao sighed, "This is indeed the biggest loophole. You were too careless."
"I know, but what can we do now that things have already happened?" Ye Peidong seemed a little flustered.
"Now is not the time to sigh," Long Jiaojiao said decisively. "There are two things to do now. First, we need to find out whether Qi Jun recorded the conversation. If he did, we must get it back at all costs. Second, we need to set up a separate set of accounts for the group."
"Set up a separate set of accounts for the group?" Ye Peidong was a little confused.
"Yes, the funds for the port bidding must come from another source," Long Jiaojiao said.
Ye Peidong understood and said worriedly, "But where can we get such a large sum of money?" "
We can only ask Feng Zuquan for help. I think he's not doing much better since the group is in trouble. He will definitely help us with this," Long Jiaojiao said.
"Yes, why didn't I think of that!" Ye Peidong excitedly hugged and kissed Long Jiaojiao, saying, "Jiaojiao, you are truly my good wife!"
"I'm glad you know," Long Jiaojiao said proudly. Then she asked, "Do you remember when Xie Xiangjie was hurriedly called out?"
Ye Peidong remembered this and said, "Yes, why?"
Long Jiaojiao smiled mysteriously, "That's good, we can ask Fang Zhenyu for help."
"How could that be?" Ye Peidong didn't believe it. This Fang Zhenyu was known for his integrity; he didn't even respect Zhong Yuguang, so why would he help them?
"Listen to me." Long Jiaojiao then recounted what she had overheard Xie Xiangjie and He Weiqiang talking in the restroom, and said, "If what they said is true, as long as we get the evidence, wouldn't Fang Zhenyu help us?" "
Yes, yes, yes." Ye Peidong said repeatedly. At this moment, although he was still a little worried, he was still full of hope for his future.
The two discussed some details about the matter before embracing and going into the restroom. Immediately, the sound of wind and rain began to rise.
On Friday, July 3, 1998
, while Ye Peidong and his wife were discussing countermeasures, Yu Suibo was playing chess with Li Xiaokang at home. It was the weekend, and Li Xiaokang was supposed to return to the provincial capital, but because of the recent heavy rains and many matters to attend to in the city, he hadn't gone back.
During dinner, Li Xiaokang received a call from Ye Peidong, which he declined without hesitation. After hanging up, he felt uneasy and called Yu Suibo, only to find that he hadn't gone either, at which point he was completely relieved. Yu Suibo invited him to play chess, and he agreed.
However, neither of them was truly focused on the game. Li Xiaokang captured one of Yu Suibo's cannons and asked, "Mayor, Zhenhua Group is a model you've established; isn't it a pity to just give it up like this?"
Yu Suibo moved his horse to block Li Xiaokang's path, laughing, "Who said I gave it up?" He then gave Li Xiaokang a cryptic smile.
Li Xiaokang pondered for a moment, then casually made a move and said, "But the current situation with Huayang Company will definitely involve the top management of Zhenhua Group. If you don't help Ye Peidong, do you think he can get through this?"
"Of course he can't. Even if I wanted to help him, he still couldn't get through it, because the matter is too big," Yu Suibo said without hesitation.
"Isn't that just giving up?" Li Xiaokang asked, puzzled.
"Zhenhua Group is Zhenhua Group, and Ye Peidong is Ye Peidong. How can the two be compared?" Yu Suibo presented his pawn to Li Xiaokang's knight. Seeing Li Xiaokang capture it without hesitation, he laughed and said, "Sometimes, losing a pawn or two doesn't matter much in the big picture." With a checkmate, he eliminated the chariot that had just captured his cannon.
In this way, Li Xiaokang, who originally had a slight advantage, now lost it all and could only try to draw. He seemed to understand something and said, "You mean, sacrifice a pawn to save the rook?"
"To maintain an advantage, not only pawns can be sacrificed, sometimes even the rook." Yu Suibo quickened his pace, and in just a few moves, he shattered Li Xiaokang's defense. He said smugly, "Besides, this rook might not even be ours."
Hearing this, Li Xiaokang understood Yu Suibo's intention. To be honest, although it was Zhenhua Group that was in trouble, the main culprit was Ye Peidong. Perhaps this incident damaged Zhenhua Group's reputation, but the group's economic strength remained. And with Ye Peidong gone, Feng Zuquan was naturally the successor. For Yu Suibo, Feng Zuquan was certainly more reliable. He couldn't help but push the chess pieces aside and sit up, saying, "Mayor, you're still the best; I can't beat you."
Yu Suibo chuckled and said, "Actually, you also have considerable skill in chess, but sometimes you're too soft-hearted. That's not good for the battlefield."
"Thank you for your guidance, Mayor. I understand." Li Xiaokang appeared sincere, but inwardly he was secretly alarmed. This Yu Suibo was truly too cunning. He knew that although Yu Suibo was talking about chess, he was actually referring to the matter of dealing with Ye Peidong. This not only made him understand Yu Suibo's character but also taught him a lot about the ways of officialdom. In fact, Li Xiaokang wasn't ruthless enough; he just wasn't in a position of power and couldn't concern himself with such matters.
"Good that you understand. So, when you encounter Ye Peidong's harassment again, you should know what to do, right?" Yu Suibo's eyes suddenly flashed with a sharp light as he stared intently at Li Xiaokang.
Li Xiaokang suddenly felt a chill, but fortunately, he was quick-witted and immediately used another excuse to cover up his unease, saying, "I understand, Mayor, don't worry."
"That's good." Yu Suibo withdrew his gaze, his tone softening again: "Xiao Li, the old man sent us to Linhai. If we can't break through, I'm afraid neither of us will fare well. Therefore, we must be careful in everything we do and not act rashly out of anger!"
"Xiaokang will definitely follow the Mayor's lead," Li Xiaokang quickly declared. He had only seen another side of Yu Suibo today, and he couldn't accept it immediately. After chatting with Yu Suibo for a while, he made an excuse to leave.
As he saw Li Xiaokang out and watched his retreating figure, Yu Suibo sneered. Although Li Xiaokang was ostensibly there to assist him, recent events suggested he was showing signs of establishing his own power base. This was why he had summoned Li Xiaokang today; he believed that after today's conversation, Li Xiaokang would at least restrain himself for a while, and that was the time he was trying to gain.
Thursday, July 9, 1998, Beijing.
"Yingying, how did things go?" Xu Xiangjun asked anxiously as soon as she saw Zhong Ying. Zhong
Ying, panting, replied, "I finally succeeded. They agreed to let you see the old man."
"Good, let's go quickly." Xu Xiangjun said, turning to leave.
"Not yet, we need to wait for Sister Liying to bring the pass." Zhong Ying grabbed a bottle of mineral water, gulped down more than half of it, and then sat down on the sofa.
Xu Xiangjun knew she was being too anxious. Hearing this, she sat down next to Zhong Ying and asked, "Why won't they let me see my father?"
It was no wonder Xu Xiangjun was anxious. In Hong Kong, there were rumors that her father, Xu Guanghua, had gotten into trouble. She had been paying attention, and indeed, he hadn't appeared in newspapers or on television for two months. As a vice-chairperson of the CPPCC Central Committee, such a long absence from the media meant something Xu Xiangjun understood. So, after arranging her work in Hong Kong, she came to Beijing. She knew her trip to Beijing wouldn't make much difference, but seeing her father and finding out why would at least ease her worries. However, when she arrived at her father's residence in Beijing, she couldn't find him. When she inquired, she was either given vague and evasive answers. She had no choice but to seek help from her friends. She knew that Zhong Ying had a good relationship with Song Liying and also knew about Song Liying's connections with higher-ups, so she contacted Zhong Ying.
“I heard it’s about the highway project. Someone reported that Uncle Xu took a lot of kickbacks on the highway construction.” Zhong Ying told Xu Xiangjun what she knew when she asked.
“How could that be? My dad would never do such a thing.” Xu Xiangjun became agitated upon hearing this.
“I also believe Uncle Xu wouldn’t, but…” Zhong Ying hesitated.
“There are no buts. I say he won’t, and I mean it.” Xu Xiangjun said confidently. From childhood, her father had always been an upright and selfless person in her eyes, and he had always raised her and her brother in this way. After she started working, although she often asked him to change jobs for her, she had never asked him to use his reputation to get a better position.
Zhong Ying had only been somewhat skeptical because others spoke with such certainty. Hearing Xu Xiangjun's words, and remembering that her father—Xu Guanghua's most trusted and valued subordinate—had never abused his power and their interactions were quite normal, she believed him and said, "I'm not doubting Uncle Xu, but those people have actually produced quite a bit of so-called evidence. It's hard not to be suspicious!"
"What evidence?" Xu Xiangjun asked anxiously.
"I heard it from Sister Liying, but I don't know the specifics. You must be tired; rest first, and ask Sister Liying when she arrives." Zhong Ying felt she couldn't explain clearly, so she simply stopped talking.
Xu Xiangjun thought Zhong Ying was right. After two days of running around, she was indeed tired, so she said, "Okay." She lay down on the bed, wanting to sleep, but with something on her mind, how could she sleep? She simply closed her eyes to rest.
About an hour later, Song Liying arrived. After exchanging greetings, she didn't say much, told Zhong Ying to stay, and then left with Xu Xiangjun.
"Sister Liying, what exactly is wrong with my father?" Once in the car, Xu Xiangjun couldn't hold back any longer and grabbed Song Liying's hand
, asking. Song Liying said calmly, "What could it be? It's just power struggles in officialdom. Believe me, as long as your father really didn't do those things, nothing will happen." She then fell silent.
Seeing this, Xu Xiangjun didn't press the matter further and could only observe the direction the car was heading. However, Xu Xiangjun was completely unfamiliar with Beijing and couldn't tell which way it was. The car drove for an hour before finally entering a heavily guarded courtyard.
Song Liying handed a pass to the guard, and after the guard approved it, she said to Xu Xiangjun, "Go in, but be careful, you only have half an hour."
"Okay, thank you!" Xu Xiangjun replied, and, led by the guard, entered a house.
Inside the house, a familiar figure was hunched over a desk, writing something with intense concentration. He didn't even notice Xu Xiangjun entering. His forehead was lined with more wrinkles, but his wise eyes remained deep and penetrating, a layer of melancholy on his face. Looking at her weathered father, Xu Xiangjun choked back tears and cried out, "Dad!"
Hearing the voice, Xu Guanghua looked up and, seeing Xu Xiangjun, couldn't believe his eyes. He exclaimed with surprise, "Xiang'er? What brings you here?"
"Dad!" Xu Xiangjun could no longer contain her emotions and threw herself into her father's arms, saying tenderly, "I've come to see you. Dad, why did they want to hurt you?"
Xu Guanghua gently patted Xu Xiangjun's shoulder, pushed her away, and sighed, "You know too?"
"Yes."
Xu Guanghua helped his daughter to sit on the sofa, then sat down himself, asking, "Xiang'er, do you think Dad would do such a thing?"
"Of course not, Dad." Xu Xiangjun's confidence was unwavering.
"That's right, your dad would never do such a thing."
"But why?" Xu Xiangjun was filled with doubt.
“Xiang’er, you know a little about the ways of officialdom, so you don’t need to ask any more questions. No matter why, as long as your father hasn’t done anything wrong, he has a clear conscience. Besides, your father believes that the central government won’t wrong an innocent person. Right now, it’s just a matter of being placed under investigation. Soon, things will become clear,” Xu Guanghua said.
Xu Xiangjun wasn’t new to officialdom, and she knew that things were definitely not as simple as her father made them out to be. She tried her best to calm herself down and asked, “Father, do you know who did it?”
Who did it? Xu Guanghua certainly knew. They just wanted to eradicate his influence in the province. It was a pity that they acted too early. If they had acted any later, when most of the evidence had been buried, and then pushed him down, even if he didn’t fall completely, his life would have been marked by “a pretext but no concrete evidence.” Now… Heh heh, Xu Guanghua chuckled inwardly twice and said, “I know, but you don’t need to care who he is. Just do your job well. Remember, you must stand upright and sit straight, but you can’t be careless against petty people.”
Seeing that her father didn’t say anything, Xu Xiangjun didn’t press him. She knew that if her father didn’t want to talk about something, asking again would be useless. Besides, time was running out, so she asked, "Is there anything you want to tell Zhenyu and Yuguang?"
Xu Guanghua certainly had a lot to say, but in this situation, he couldn't say anything. He said, "There's nothing much to say. Just tell Yuguang what I told you earlier. As for Zhenyu," Xu Guanghua looked at his daughter kindly and said, "Tell him to focus on his business. If possible, get the port built as soon as possible. I want to see Linhai Port become an international port."
"Dad!" Xu Xiangjun could tell from her father's eyes that he approved of her secret husband even more, and she couldn't help but feel a little shy. "I'm afraid without you and Yuguang, his business will be difficult to expand."
"Daughter, I thought you really understood him." Xu Guanghua's eyes revealed an expectant look as he said, "Don't worry, a man who dares to be Xiaojian's godfather won't give up so easily. And you, since you've made up your mind, you must persevere."
"I know, Dad!" Xu Xiangjun's heart was filled with warmth as she thought of everything she had with Fang Zhenyu. At this moment, she really wanted to return to Fang Zhenyu's side and fight alongside him.
Xu Guanghua said, "Xiang'er, go back to your post. Remember, do whatever is beneficial to the people and the development of the port."
A strange look flashed in Xu Xiangjun's eyes. She said firmly, "Dad, I know. Take care of yourself. I'm leaving." She hugged her father and left.
From his daughter's expression, Xu Guanghua knew she understood the meaning of his words, and a relieved smile appeared on his face.
On Wednesday, July 15, 1998, Long Jiaojiao
came out of the shower and found that Ye Peidong was not in the living room. She called out several times, but received no answer. She became anxious, hurriedly put on her coat, and ran downstairs to the garage. The car was gone, and she became even more nervous. "Is that Xiao Li? Is President Ye with you?" she called the driver's cell phone.
"No, didn't Mr. Ye drive himself today?" the driver said.
"Oh, I forgot." Long Jiaojiao hung up the phone, exclaiming, "Oh no, oh no, what should I do?" She paced back and forth in the living room, feeling incredibly lost. After a long while, she rushed out of the house, hailed a taxi, and told the driver, "Quick, to the highway."
Tonight, Ye Peidong had invited Yu Suibo and Li Xiaokang to dinner again. The two agreed to attend, so they booked a private room at an entertainment center. Long Jiaojiao knew that men going to such places were never good news. Although she was somewhat unhappy, she thought that Ye Peidong was trying to solve his current problems, so she couldn't object and didn't go with him.
Long Jiaojiao waited for Ye Peidong at home. It was almost ten o'clock, and he still hadn't returned. Just as she was getting impatient, her father, Long Zhongxiang, called, saying that he had received news that Qi Jun, because he hadn't received Ye Peidong's assistance and couldn't withstand the pressure, and with Lu Shilin as a witness, had finally handed over the recording of his conversation with Ye Peidong to the investigation team. Upon hearing this news, Long Jiaojiao panicked and immediately tried to call Ye Peidong, but couldn't get through. She had no choice but to go to Haitian Entertainment City herself.
When she arrived, Ye Peidong was drinking with Yu Suibo and others. Although there were no hostesses, they were all quite tipsy. Seeing Long Jiaojiao arrive, Ye Peidong became furious. Although he was already somewhat drunk, he understood that Yu Li and the others didn't want too many people to know they were having fun there. However, upon hearing what Long Jiaojiao said, he was speechless and slumped into his chair.
Yu Li and the others were also very surprised and quickly asked why. Ye Peidong had no choice but to tell them the truth, including how he had managed to keep Qi Jun at bay. Yu Suibo
, upon hearing this, also became anxious and quickly discussed countermeasures. However, after much discussion, they couldn't come up with a feasible solution. Later, Yu Suibo and Li Xiaokang received a call from Zhong Yuguang, asking them to return to the municipal party committee for an emergency meeting to deal with the seawall breach. The two hurriedly left.
After they left, Ye Peidong became even more anxious, constantly downing his drink and muttering, "What should I do? What should I do?"
Long Jiaojiao was also at a loss, saying that unless they managed to seize the evidence or the investigation team members died, nothing could be solved no matter how urgently they tried. She dragged Ye Peidong out of the Haitian Entertainment City.
Along the way, Ye Peidong kept cursing Zhong Yuguang for being a bad friend, saying he would kill him. At first, Long Jiaojiao thought Ye Peidong was just saying it out of anger, but when he drove towards the highway entrance, she knew he was serious, because Yu Suibo had just said that Zhong Yuguang was rushing back from the provincial capital. Long Jiaojiao finally managed to persuade Ye Peidong to go home, but she had only taken a shower when he disappeared.
As Long Jiaojiao drove towards the highway, she searched for Zhong Yuguang's phone number, wanting to call him and warn him to be careful. However, Zhong Yuguang's phone was always out of service, which made her even more anxious. Although she also harbored some resentment towards Zhong Yuguang, and knew that the breach in the seawall might severely damage Ye Peidong's career, murder was a capital offense. As long as the person was alive, there was always a chance to turn things around. Besides, even if she killed Zhong Yuguang without anyone noticing, the investigation team wouldn't stop, and Ye Peidong would still be caught.
Although it was already past eleven o'clock, the hot weather meant there were still many pedestrians and vehicles on the road. The taxi driver was already driving as fast as he could, but Long Jiaojiao still felt it was too slow and kept urging the driver to go faster, which annoyed the driver so much that he almost dropped her off and refused to take her business.
Finally, the taxi entered the highway access road, and the speed increased. In just over two kilometers, they would reach the toll station. Long Jiaojiao breathed a slight sigh of relief and carefully observed the roadside, looking for Ye Peidong's car.
Almost there, nearing the tollbooth. Using the streetlights, Long Jiaojiao could already see Ye Peidong's car parked not far from the tollbooth. Just then, Ye Peidong's headlights flashed, and the car suddenly accelerated, hurtling towards a car that had already exited the tollbooth and was speeding away. "No!" Long Jiaojiao screamed.
The taxi driver, wondering why Long Jiaojiao was screaming, heard a muffled thud. Two cars had collided not far ahead, one of them overturning into a roadside ditch. He was shocked, and his car veered towards the side of the road. Luckily, he braked in time; otherwise, he too would have ended up in the ditch.
"Peidong! Peidong!" Long Jiaojiao desperately pulled open the car door and screamed as she ran towards the accident site.
She didn't know where she got the strength, but she covered the nearly one-kilometer distance in less than two minutes. Inside the car, Ye Peidong's face was covered in blood, his body slumped back, the dented car body pressing him against his seat. "Peidong, Peidong, are you alright?" She reached through the broken window and shook Ye Peidong, but there was no response. In desperation, she fainted.
When she woke up, the traffic police and ambulance had already arrived. "Miss, are you alright?" The doctor examining her asked with concern when he saw she was awake.
"I'm fine, quick, quick, save him!" Long Jiaojiao said, pointing to the wrecked car.
Several traffic police officers were busy at the front of the car, and soon they pulled Ye Peidong out of the mangled front. Several doctors examined Ye Peidong, but quickly shook their heads and headed towards the ditch.
"Please save him!" Long Jiaojiao grabbed one of them, pleading pitifully.
"It's no use," the doctor said.
"No, he won't die, please save him!" Long Jiaojiao cried out, clinging tightly to the doctor.
The doctor glanced indifferently at Long Jiaojiao, shook off her hand, and left.
"Peidong, you can't die!" Long Jiaojiao threw herself onto Ye Peidong's gradually cooling body, screaming hysterically before fainting again.
When Long Jiaojiao awoke, she was in the hospital, with her parents by her side. "Jiaojiao, are you alright?" her mother asked anxiously.
"Mom, I'm alright. Dad, Peidong, he..." Long Jiaojiao threw herself into her father's arms.
Long Zhongxiang supported his daughter, sighing, "Dad already knows, alas..."
Long Jiaojiao wept again. Although her relationship with Ye Peidong was largely based on mutual benefit, how could she have no feelings for him after living together for so long? Besides, Ye Peidong had truly been good to her. The thought of being separated forever from him filled her with unimaginable grief.
Seeing his grieving daughter, Long Zhongxiang didn't know how to comfort her. Only after she calmed down a little did he say, "Jiaojiao, please accept my condolences. There are still many things for you to handle."
Mentioning these matters sobered Long Jiaojiao considerably, and she quickly asked, "How is Zhong Yuguang?"
"His driver is dead. I heard he was also seriously injured. The doctors are trying to save him, but whether he'll survive is still unknown."
"Haha!" Long Jiaojiao burst into laughter.
"Daughter, what's wrong?" her mother asked worriedly, seeing her daughter's maniacal laughter.
Long Zhongxiang, of course, knew why his daughter was laughing, and he couldn't help but shake his head.
After a while, Long Jiaojiao stopped laughing and said surprisingly calmly, "Dad, help me get discharged. I need to go home immediately, back to the company."
Seeing his daughter's resolute expression, Long Zhongxiang sighed again and went to handle the discharge procedures.

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