Chapter Fifty-Four: Shen Guodong’s Solution

Fengtian Zhonggang.

When Wang Zhongshan learned that Zhou Meiniang was about to arrive, he was filled with excitement. He had always harbored a covetous desire for this stunningly beautiful woman, whose very bone structure exuded an alluring and tempestuous aura, but until now, opportunity had never presented itself.

This time, however, he believed his chance had finally come. Changes at her factory had prompted the higher-ups to decide on replacing their supplier, and now the final say rested with him alone. If Zhou Meiniang failed to satisfy his expectations, he could easily choose products from another factory instead of hers. Without some benefit to himself, why should he be persuaded to change his mind?

"Director Wang, the people from Fengcheng Lathe Factory have arrived. Should I let them in, or have them wait outside?" At that moment, someone stepped in to report.

On hearing this, Wang Zhongshan's heart surged with anticipation, though outwardly he maintained an air of casual indifference. He gave a faint smile and said, "Let them in."

Once the messenger left, Wang Zhongshan paced about his office, rubbing his hands together in excitement. Soon he would see that enchantingly seductive woman. If he could win her favor, he thought to himself, he would gladly trade ten years of his life.

The door soon opened again, and Zhou Meiniang entered as expected. A brilliant smile lit up Wang Zhongshan's face, only to freeze slightly when he saw she was not alone. At her side was a young man. Instantly, Wang Zhongshan's mood soured. Bringing someone else along meant he couldn't voice his intentions openly, no matter what he had in mind.

"Ms. Zhou, is this newcomer from your factory? For such an important occasion, bringing a new face along seems rather inappropriate, wouldn't you say?" Wang Zhongshan hinted pointedly. If Zhou Meiniang had any sense, she would send this Shen Guodong away now—his meaning was all too clear: he didn't want Shen Guodong present to interrupt their negotiations.

If it were just the two of them, Wang Zhongshan would be in control, and Zhou Meiniang would have little choice but to yield or lose the contract. But with Shen Guodong there, the conversation would have to remain strictly professional; there would be no room for private requests, which, after all, were not exactly above board.

"Director Wang, this is no newcomer. This is my superior, Director Shen Guodong. He is mainly responsible for production and sales at the factory. When he heard you were willing to see me, he insisted on coming himself to show our sincerity," Zhou Meiniang said, suppressing a smile.

It seemed sincere, but it was far from what Wang Zhongshan had hoped for.

His intentions could not have been more obvious. With Shen Guodong present, it would be difficult to make a move; any hope of pleasure was truly dashed. Still, he kept up appearances.

Wang Zhongshan returned to his seat, crossed his legs in a display of authority, and said arrogantly, "Director Shen, a pleasure to meet you. As you know, our company only works with the best suppliers in the region. After what happened at your factory, I’m afraid continued cooperation will be difficult. The higher-ups have instructed me to find a new supplier. Your lathes no longer meet our standards."

As he spoke, Wang Zhongshan let his gaze drift, almost imperceptibly, over Zhou Meiniang’s figure. Her curves were simply astonishing—enough to make a man’s blood boil. Few could resist such temptation. Even just looking was a feast for the eyes.

Wang Zhongshan admitted to himself that his thoughts were less than honorable, but at least with his legs crossed, his intent was not too obvious.

Yet how could any of this escape Shen Guodong’s sharp eyes? He was astute enough to see through the situation at a glance—an old lecher, indeed! It took but a single look for him to confirm it, though he had never seen one so easily unsettled before.

Still, Shen Guodong said nothing, for now. The man was still useful, provided he knew his place. If not, what happened next would be his own fault.

"Director Wang, there were rumors deliberately spread to slander our company. I can assure you our products are made on advanced European and American production lines. The quality is absolutely guaranteed. If you have doubts, have them tested—you’ll see the truth immediately. Rumors are just that," Shen Guodong replied with a pleasant smile.

Wang Zhongshan was puzzled by the sudden laughter but, holding all the power, he saw no reason to fear this young man. The very idea was laughable.

"Quality inspection? That’s possible. Director Shen, why don’t you let Miss Zhou accompany me? I’ve always dealt with her, and we work well together—a certain understanding, you know? As a man, I think you understand what I mean," Wang Zhongshan said, throwing caution to the wind.

Though Shen Guodong was young, all men understood such matters. As long as he agreed, the deal would be as good as settled.

So it was only natural for him to make the suggestion.

But as soon as the words left his mouth, Shen Guodong’s smile froze, and his expression changed. He had come prepared, after all—otherwise, he would not have brought Zhou Meiniang along. This man truly was incorrigible.

"Director Wang… are you familiar with 105 Dadao, Fengcheng, third floor?" Shen Guodong asked with a knowing smile, naming a peculiar address.

Zhou Meiniang, puzzled, looked at him, unsure what this was about. Before their visit, Shen Guodong had boasted that he could handle the situation—was this what he meant? How could mentioning a random address possibly work?

But Wang Zhongshan’s face changed dramatically at the words. The address was all too familiar—how did Shen Guodong know? He couldn’t believe it. His eyes widened in disbelief, unable to fathom what was happening.

"Director Shen, ha! Just a joke between colleagues. I’ll arrange for inspectors to visit your factory. If your products are indeed up to standard, we can certainly continue our cooperation," Wang Zhongshan replied with a forced laugh, shooting a resentful glance at Shen Guodong.

This man had actually investigated him behind his back! Yet there was nothing he could do. Even if their products were not perfect, he would have to let some things slide—after all, Shen Guodong now held leverage over him.