Chapter 18: Mr. Wang’s Guest

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As the CEO of Ruihua Technology, Wang Ming enjoyed a certain reputation among the young entrepreneurs of Jiangcheng. Later, as smartphones gained popularity, Wang Ming developed several well-received apps that made a significant impact in the market. The company’s scale once rose to the top tier in Jiangcheng. However, in an absurd turn of events, Wang Ming was involved in a sudden traffic accident while driving. He was violently intercepted by a dirt truck. According to the news, when the paramedics arrived, the car seemed as if it had been struck by a “two-dimensional foil,” collapsing from three dimensions into two. Clearly, something was amiss.

Chu Feng, dressed sharply in a suit, arrived at Ruihua Technology driving a Ghost. The security guard initially intended to turn away the young man but changed his expression to a smile upon seeing the Ghost beside Chu Feng. “Sir, may I ask who you are…” “I’m here to see CEO Wang,” Chu Feng replied. Had he arrived on a small electric scooter, he likely would have been stopped immediately. After all, one of Chu Feng’s main pastimes while in prison was reading novels, and he was cautious about such unlikely scenarios. As long as appearances were convincing, he was not afraid of security’s scrutiny.

“CEO Wang is currently in a meeting. You’ll have to wait outside the conference room,” the guard said with a smile. Chu Feng nodded and entered the building. The receptionist, unaware of Chu Feng’s identity, still politely brewed some tea upon seeing his impeccable suit.

Before long, Wang Ming emerged from the conference hall, clutching a file bag and wearing a worried expression. Spotting Chu Feng smoking in the hallway, an irritation within him seemed to find an outlet. “Who told you to smoke here? Which department are you from?” Without hesitation, he fired off two pointed questions. Chu Feng tapped the ash from his cigarette and said, “CEO Wang, nice to meet you.” He took a careful look at Wang Ming.

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Without considering his hairstyle, Wang Ming appeared to be a man in his thirties. However, his thinning hair and high receding hairline might make one mistake him for a man in his forties or fifties. “You…” Wang Ming glanced outside and noticed Chu Feng’s car, quickly realizing that Chu Feng was no ordinary visitor. He immediately changed his tone. “You are?” “I’m here to discuss cooperation. I heard your company is currently seeking investment, so I wanted to talk with you,” Chu Feng extended his hand.

Wang Ming’s eyes brightened instantly as he shook Chu Feng’s hand. “Please, follow me to my office!” He then called to the receptionist, “Xiaoyan, bring out my treasured Da Hong Pao tea.” “No problem,” the receptionist promptly complied.

Once in Wang Ming’s office, the two exchanged pleasantries before quickly getting down to business. Chu Feng was aware of Ruihua Technology’s current difficulties, so Wang Ming was forthcoming. “After my collaboration with Zhang Fuqiang fell through, I don’t know what he did, but he somehow convinced my partners to cancel their contracts with me one after another.”

Previously, after a private discussion with Zhang Fuqiang, Wang Ming felt that Zhang’s understanding of technology remained stuck in the realm of networks. Using an excuse involving Zhang’s family troubles, Wang Ming had tried to withdraw from the deal, not expecting to anger Zhang in the process.

“CEO Wang, in my view, your current research direction holds great promise. Who can predict the future?” Chu Feng said. “Adding computer-like programs to mobile phones could very well spark a revolutionary change someday!”

Hearing this, Wang Ming grew visibly excited. Not only his business partners but even his collaborators had considered his vision impractical. “Phones are for calls. Why add all these extras? If someone needs it, they can just use a phone to go online, right?”

Chu Feng laughed and said, “That guy is mistaken. Imagine if phones could run office software or other functions. What if you’re on a train and can’t get offline, but an urgent matter requires your attention? You can’t carry a laptop everywhere—it’s too bulky!” “Exactly! That’s what I think! When traveling for business, the one thing you never forget is your phone. Perhaps phones will have even more capabilities in the future!” Wang Ming was elated; at that moment, he felt he had found a kindred spirit.

Checking his watch, Wang Ming asked, “Brother Chu, if you don’t mind, shall we go to a restaurant for a drink?” “I still have to drive this afternoon.” “No problem, I’ll lend you my driver!” Wang Ming gripped Chu Feng’s hand as if he might fly away at any moment.

They arrived at a small restaurant near the company, where Wang Ming reserved a private room.

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Accompanying them was the receptionist Xiaoyan. Due to the company’s current difficulties, Xiaoyan also served as secretary and accountant. This was quite common; most startups have employees wearing multiple hats.

Though a modest restaurant, it served hearty Northeastern cuisine. The large plate of sweet and sour pork was especially satisfying. Chu Feng, drawing on his past knowledge of smartphones, engaged Wang Ming in a lively discussion. Each time Chu Feng spoke of future trends in mobile technology, Wang Ming would stand excitedly.

The two clinked glasses repeatedly, almost toasting to their mutual enthusiasm. After several rounds of wine and various dishes, Chu Feng tentatively brought up Zhang Fuqiang. Wang Ming handed him a cigarette and said, “Zhang Fuqiang is a complicated man…”

Though somewhat intoxicated, Wang Ming instinctively glanced around to ensure privacy before speaking freely. “People say he’s self-made—pah! He’s just a opportunist. His wife’s family was a well-known wealthy clan in Jiangcheng.”

“You mean Li Xueli?” Chu Feng smiled. “Exactly! Li Xueli is nothing but a gold digger. When she was with Zhang Fuqiang, his wife was still around! Zhang’s father-in-law trusted his ability, and since Sun Jin was their only daughter, the family’s assets were handed over to Zhang Fuqiang to manage.” Wang Ming took a drag on his cigarette.

Indeed, in his drunken haze, Wang Ming’s words flowed unrestrained. Sun Jin was Zhang Yanran’s mother, and Zhang Yanran’s father was among the first batch of entrepreneurs in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Later, when Sun Jin’s father developed Alzheimer’s and was placed in a nursing home, he no longer recognized himself. After their marriage, Sun Jin handled the household while Zhang Fuqiang managed external affairs. It was this startup capital that formed the foundation of Zhang Fuqiang’s current success.

Chu Feng said, “When Zhang Fuqiang’s business was thriving, Sun Jin suddenly died. Could it be that…”

Upon hearing this, Wang Ming’s expression darkened immediately, as if recalling something grave.