Chapter 71: Building a Hot Pot Brand
Inside the private room of the restaurant.
Zhao Yuxin said, "Dad, Liu Yujuan is truly shameless. I don't know how she had the nerve to ask you to rent out the storefront."
"No matter what she says, I won't rent it out." Zhao Haishook his head bitterly, changing the subject. "Let's not talk about her. It's already this late, why isn't Zhao Yuqinghere yet?"
Zhao Yuxin said, "My Cousin said she has a client to entertain and will be a bit late."
Zhao Hai prepared to leave the private room: "Alright then, when she arrives, just tell me, and I'll start cooking."
Zhao Yuxin said, "Dad, you've worked hard."
Zhao Hai smiled: "Silly girl, what's hard about this?"
Zhao Yuxin said, "Oh, right, Dad, even though you don't want to rent the storefront to Liu Yujuan, why don't you rent it to someone else? You work too hard. We're not short on money now, you can completely retire and enjoy life."
Xu Yang also joined in, persuading, "Yes, Dad, you're working too hard. My parents run a small supermarket at home, and it's nowhere near as tiring as you running a restaurant. You should just retire, or if not retire, at least do something a little easier."
Zhao Yuxin nodded repeatedly: "Yes, Dad, please listen to us."
Zhao Hai smiled again: "You two really are... Don't worry, I'm not old yet, and I don't know how to do anything else. Running this restaurant isn't as tiring as you think. I only cook when the restaurant is busy or when acquaintances come. Otherwise, Old Zhang and Old Wu do the cooking. You don't need to worry about my affairs. On the other hand, when you two have children and need me to look after them, I can retire early to help you."
Zhao Yuxin blushed slightly: "Dad, why did the conversation suddenly turn to us?"
At this moment, the private room door opened, and Zhao Yuqing walked in.
"Second Uncle!" Zhao Yuqing greeted Zhao Hai as she entered.
"You're here. What do you want to eat? Order now, and I'll go make it for you." Zhao Hai said.
The three ordered their dishes, and Zhao Hai went to cook.
Zhao Yuqing sat down, drank a cup of tea poured by Zhao Yuxin, and then said, "Sorry to keep you waiting. I had a client who wanted to acquire a hotpot brand and came to me, asking me to immediately audit the financial status of that hotpot brand, which caused the delay."
Zhao Yuxin casually asked, "Sister, what hotpot brand?"
Liu Yujuan said, "A hotpot brand called Fishing Fire Household. You should know it, right? It has twenty branches in Jiangcheng."
Zhao Yuxin nodded: "I know it. There's one in University Town, and my classmates and I often go there. The taste is quite good."
Xu Yang also nodded. He and his classmates often chose to go to Yuhuo Renjia Hotpot Restaurant for gatherings; the taste was indeed good.
Xu Yang asked curiously, "The business of this hotpot restaurant should be good, right? Why is it being sold?"
Zhao Yuqing said, "The owner lost money gambling in Las Vegas, United States, some time ago and is heavily in debt. Others are forcing him to repay, so he can only sell the hotpot restaurant to pay off his debts."
Xu Yang shook his head and said, "Gambling is truly harmful. Whoever gets involved will not have a good life."
At this moment, a system prompt sounded in his mind.
"Ding! One year later, the Jiangdilao Hotpot brand will be born, becoming popular nationwide with its ultimate service, and within five short years, it will become a hotpot brand of a hundred-billion-yuan group!"
"The secret to the success of the Jiangdilao Hotpot brand has been sent to the host's mailbox. Please check it!"
Xu Yang's eyes lit up.
With the secret to success, this meant he could create the Jiangdilao Hotpot brand in advance!
It was unrealistic for Xu Yang to start from scratch himself.
Xu Yang wouldn't, and didn't want to, spend that much time and effort.
Then there was only one path left: acquire a mature hotpot brand and then operate it according to the secret of Jiangdilao Hotpot's success.
Immediately, Xu Yang asked, "Sister Yuqing, you're auditing the Fishing Fire Household Hotpot Restaurant for your client. Has your client acquired the Fishing Fire Household Hotpot Restaurant yet?"
Zhao Yuqing shook her head: "No, the owner of Fishing Fire Household Hotpot Restaurant is asking for a bit too much, and my client didn't agree."
Xu Yang asked, "How much is he asking?"
Zhao Yuqing sensed something was off and asked, "Xu Yang, why are you asking for so much detail? What are you planning?"
Xu Yang smiled slightly: "I've had thoughts in this area recently, but there hasn't been a suitable opportunity. If Fishing Fire Household Hotpot Restaurant is suitable, I would like to acquire it."
Upon hearing this, Zhao Yuqing was shocked, and even Zhao Yuxin was startled.
Zhao Yuxin quickly said, "Husband, you want to open a hotpot restaurant?"
Running a hotpot restaurant requires investing a lot of human and material resources, and continuous follow-up is needed.
This is much more complex than making short videos or acquiring live streaming guilds.
Xu Yang nodded: "Yes, I've been thinking about this issue for a while."
Zhao Yuqing frowned slightly: "Xu Yang, I know you've made money, but you can't invest blindly. Although I think the financial situation of Fishing Fire Household Hotpot Restaurant is quite good, if you're serious about hotpot, acquiring Fishing Fire Household Hotpot Restaurant is a good choice, but this kind of investment requires caution."
Xu Yang smiled and said, "Don't worry, I've thought it through carefully. Sister Yuqing, you also said that the financial situation of Fishing Fire Household Hotpot Restaurant is good, and it's only being sold because the owner needs to pay off debts. This is a foundation; as long as it's managed well, it can still make money."
Zhao Yuqing pondered, "Xu Yang, that's true, but there are still risks in the future. If you want to acquire it, you still need to consider it carefully."
Xu Yang said, "I know that. Just tell me, what's the price of Fishing Fire Household Hotpot Restaurant, and do you think it's worth it?"
Zhao Yuqing said, "The owner of Fishing Fire HouseholdHotpot Restaurant is asking for thirty million. My client thought it was too high and was only willing to offer twenty-five million. But the owner of Fishing Fire Household Hotpot Restaurant wasn't willing, saying the lowest he could go was twenty-eight million. The two sides didn't reach an agreement. Twenty-eight million, if one is truly willing to enter the hotpot industry, I think it's acceptable."
Xu Yang nodded: "Alright then, I'll go with you tomorrow to meet the owner of Fishing Fire Household Hotpot Restaurant and acquire it."
At this moment, Zhao Hai came in, pushing the cooked dishes on a small cart, and he also brought a dry pot.
It was a rare gathering, with his son-in-law and daughters present, so he also planned to eat with them.
As soon as he opened the door, he heard Xu Yang say the word 'acquire' and asked, "Xu Yang, what company are you acquiring now?"
Before Xu Yang could speak, Zhao Yuxin said, "Dad, Xu Yang said he wants to acquire Fishing Fire HouseholdHotpot Restaurant?"
Upon hearing this, Zhao Hai's face was full of surprise: "Xu Yang, why do you suddenly want to acquire Fishing Fire Household Hotpot Restaurant?"
Xu Yang said, "Dad, I just heard Sister Yuqing say that Fishing Fire Household Hotpot Restaurant is for sale, and its financial situation is quite good. I think there's no problem. I've been considering this aspect for a while, and I plan to try making a different kind of hotpot restaurant. Since Fishing Fire Household Hotpot is for sale, I think I can acquire it and officially enter the catering field."
Zhao Yuqing interjected and explained the financial situation of Fishing Fire Household Hotpot Restaurant.
Zhao Hai placed the food on the table, and everyone began to eat.
Chapter 72 Asking the Father-in-law to Come Out
"Hmm, it's really delicious." Zhao Yuqing praised as she ate, "Uncle, your cooking is just different. Every once in a while, if I don't eat a meal you've cooked, I feel like something is missing."
Zhao Hai chuckled, "Look how hungry you are. Come whenever you want to eat."
Zhao Yuxin asked, "Dad, what are your thoughts on Xu Yang wanting to acquire the Yuhuo Renjia Hotpot Restaurant?"
Zhao Hai pondered, "I won't interfere with Xu Yang's decisions. The vision of you young people is often better than that of us older generations. Our advice might not always be right. I won't give Xu Yang any suggestions. If Xu Yang wants to do it, and has thought it through, then he should just do it."
Zhao Yuxin rolled her eyes, saying somewhat speechlessly, "Dad, you're too good to Xu Yang, aren't you? If it were me, you'd probably stop me no matter what."
Zhao Hai shook his head with a smile, "You and Xu Yangare different. I don't quite understand some of the things Xu Yang does. Xu Yang's futures investments, his treasure hunting on Antique Street—before he did these things, no one would have thought he would make money. Even now, some people say Xu Yang just got lucky, but I don't think so. Instead, I believe Xu Yang has ample ability, and he gives me the feeling of a very reliable person. He definitely thinks things through before acting. In short, I trust him."
Zhao Yuxin was finally convinced, saying helplessly, "Alright."
Xu Yang said, "Dad, if I acquire the Yuhuo Renjia Hotpot Restaurant, I'll still need your help."
Zhao Hai was startled, "What can I help you with?"
Zhao Yuxin and Zhao Yuqing also looked at Xu Yang.
Xu Yang said, "Dad, although I want to venture into hotpot, I lack management experience. And for such a large company, I'm not comfortable entrusting it to others. I hope you can help me manage it."
Zhao Hai was surprised, then said, "Xu Yang, you've got the wrong person. I've been running this small restaurant for over ten years, and I don't even know what the corporate world is like anymore. Having me manage your Yuhuo Renjia Hotpot Restaurant is not a good idea."
Xu Yang said, "Dad, I trust you. Yu Xin said that you used to be a powerhouse in the corporate world. Besides, you manage this restaurant yourself; you haven't truly left the corporate world."
Zhao Yuxin's eyes lit up, "Dad, I actually think this is a good idea. You could change your lifestyle; it would be a bit easier."
Running a small restaurant means worrying about everything and cooking yourself.
To be honest, Zhao Yuxin felt very sorry for her father.
But she couldn't change anything.
If her father managed the Yuhuo Renjia Hotpot Restaurant, although he would still have many things to worry about, at least it would be a bit easier.
And she could tell that her father was still very unwilling about leaving the corporate world back then.
He opened this small restaurant for her.
Her father now had the opportunity to return to the corporate world, and to take charge of a catering group.
Her father's spirit would undoubtedly be better, and he would surely experience a second spring.
At this point, she actually hoped Xu Yang could successfully acquire the Yuhuo Renjia Hotpot Restaurant.
Zhao Hai still shook his head, "I'm already old. I'll just stick to this small restaurant. You should hire a professional manager to manage the Yuhuo Renjia Hotpot Restaurant."
Xu Yang said, "Dad, you're still young, not even fifty. How can you say you're old? In this day and age, at your age, you're in your prime. And I heard from Yu Xin about what happened between you and Yang Tiancheng. Back then, Yang Tiancheng played dirty tricks, forcing you to leave Meiwei Group and the corporate world. Since Yang Tiancheng is pursuing a hotpot chain plan, and I'm acquiring the Yuhuo Renjia Hotpot Restaurant to also do hotpot, you can manage the Yuhuo Renjia Hotpot Restaurant and defeat him honorably, avenging the past. How great would that be?"
Hearing this, Zhao Hai fell silent.
Back then, he was framed by Yang Tiancheng and left Meiwei Group, and no company in the industry was willing to hire him.
That's why he used the family's old storefront to open a restaurant.
And that was over ten years ago.
He thought he had let go of the past, but hearing Xu Yangsay this stirred up waves in his heart.
If he could manage a catering group and honorably defeat Yang Tiancheng, it would undoubtedly be the best outcome.
Yang Tiancheng's hotpot chain plan was definitely a key investment for the Meiwei Group boss. If it failed, Yang Tiancheng's life would probably not be easy.
That would be considered revenge for the past.
Zhao Yuxin supported Xu Yang, "Exactly, Dad, just agree."
Xu Yang added, "Dad, your restaurant can be used to open one of the Yuhuo Renjia Hotpot Restaurant's branches. The income from this branch can be accounted for separately, and you can take a certain percentage of the income. This way, you keep your storefront, don't give it to others, and can also make money from it. It's killing two birds with one stone, don't you think?"
Zhao Hai was silent for a long time, then said, "The income from this storefront doesn't matter, but what you said about honorably defeating Yang Tiancheng, that truly moves me."
Xu Yang was overjoyed, "Dad, then it's settled! Tomorrow, Sister Qing and I will go acquire the Yuhuo Renjia Hotpot Restaurant, and then you'll manage it."
Zhao Hai gave a wry smile, "We haven't even acquired it yet, and we're already discussing it so enthusiastically. Isn't it a bit early?"
Xu Yang said, "Don't worry, we'll definitely succeed in acquiring it."
He looked at Zhao Yuqing, "Sister Qing, why don't you call the owner of the Yuhuo Renjia Hotpot Restaurantnow? Make an appointment with him. Otherwise, someone else might get ahead of us, or your client might change his mind again and be willing to pay 28 million for the acquisition, and that wouldn't be good."
Zhao Yuqing said, "My client isn't willing to pay that much. But calling the owner of the Yuhuo Renjia Hotpot Restaurant first to arrange a meeting time is no problem. What time do you want to meet?"
Xu Yang said, "Anytime is fine."
Zhao Yuqing nodded, put down her bowl and chopsticks, took out her phone from her bag, and dialed the number of the Yuhuo Renjia Hotpot Restaurant owner.
After a few words, she hung up and said, "It's settled. We'll meet at his company tomorrow at ten o'clock."
Xu Yang nodded, "Good."
He looked at Zhao Hai again, "Dad, we've agreed, so when I acquire the Yuhuo Renjia Hotpot Restaurant, you can't back out."
Zhao Hai nodded, "Alright."
At this point, he naturally wouldn't back out.
He even felt a faint excitement, a certain anticipation, to manage the Yuhuo Renjia Hotpot Restaurant well and defeat Yang Tiancheng... Zhao Yulu and Liu Yujuanreturned to the Yang Family after eating out.
Seeing Liu Yujuan's expression was not very good, Yang Tiancheng couldn't help but frown, "What's wrong? Zhao Hai didn't agree?"
Liu Yujuan shook her head, "He didn't agree. I already raised the price to 350,000, but he said he wouldn't rent the storefront to us no matter what."
Yang Tiancheng glanced at Zhao Yulu and frowned, "Did Yulu try to persuade him?"
Before Zhao Yulu could speak, Liu Yujuan said, "She did. She tried to persuade him as his daughter, but he no longer considers Zhao Yulu his daughter. He coldly refused."
She still wanted to protect Zhao Yulu; otherwise, if Yang Tiancheng knew Zhao Yulu hadn't said a word, he would definitely blame her.
Hearing Liu Yujuan say that, Zhao Yulu remained silent.
Chapter 73 Leave this matter to me
Yang Tiancheng sighed, "This Tiancheng is truly heartless."
"That's right, he is heartless." Liu Yujuan immediately nodded in agreement, then changed the subject. "By the way, Tiancheng, Yulu and I walked around near his restaurant and found two storefronts that are quite suitable for opening a hotpot restaurant. If we take over one of them, it won't be a problem."
Yang Tiancheng thought for a moment and said, "Let's talk about this later. I still want Zhao Hai's storefront. You two still need to think of a way."
He mainly wanted to use this opportunity to prevent Zhao Hai from even opening a restaurant.
That way, he would feel even more accomplished.
Liu Yujuan said bitterly, "Tiancheng, I've tried everything. He won't possibly rent the storefront to us."
Yang Tiancheng glanced at Zhao Yulu: "If you can't, Yulumight have a way."
"Me?" Zhao Yulu was stunned.
Didn't Mom just say that Dad had already rejected her?
Why would this Yang Tiancheng say she had a way?
"That's right, it's you." Yang Tiancheng nodded.
"I don't understand what you mean." Zhao Yulu said.
"Yulu, you are Xu Yang's ex-girlfriend. You can go to Xu Yang and ask him to persuade Zhao Hai. As long as Xu Yang speaks up to persuade Zhao Hai, I believe Zhao Haiwill agree. After all, the current Xu Yang is related to Zhao Hai's daughter, which is your older sister's happiness," Yang Tiancheng said.
"I've already broken up with Xu Yang. He's already married to my sister, so he won't listen to me."
Zhao Yulu really didn't understand why Yang Tianchengthought that if she went to persuade Xu Yang, Xu Yangwould listen to her and persuade her father.
"It's just a breakup. I believe he still has feelings for you, and it can even be said that he still loves you. Otherwise, he wouldn't have immediately married your sister."
"In my opinion, his marrying your sister is just him treating your sister as your substitute."
"As long as you persuade Xu Yang, Xu Yang will definitely agree to you. As long as he agrees to you, and he persuades Zhao Hai, Zhao Hai will rent out the storefront."
This was why Yang Tiancheng thought Zhao Yulu had a way.
Upon hearing this, Zhao Yulu instantly understood, but she didn't think so.
She understood Xu Yang and didn't think Xu Yang would treat her sister as her substitute.
Zhao Yulu shook her head: "I don't think so."
Yang Tiancheng frowned: "Yulu, I can't be wrong. What you need to do is follow what I said."
Zhao Yulu glanced at Yang Tiancheng and nodded seriously: "Alright, I'll do it."
She agreed verbally, but she had no intention of following Yang Tiancheng's words.
Yang Tiancheng seemed to have seen through Zhao Yulu's thoughts and said, "Call Xu Yang now, right in front of me."
Zhao Yulu's expression was a bit ugly, but she still took out her phone, dialed Xu Yang's number, and, as Yang Tiancheng instructed, put it on speakerphone.
Yang Tiancheng's coercion made her feel very angry, but she could only endure it.
Soon, the call connected.
Zhao Yulu immediately said, "Xu Yang, do you have time now?"
Xu Yang said, "What's wrong?"
At this moment, Xu Yang had already returned home, and Zhao Yuxin was taking a shower. He was checking the emails sent by the system.
This email contained the secret to the success of Yuhuo Renjia Hotpot Restaurant.
It detailed various extreme services, as well as store management, employee training, salary and benefits, and so on.
With this information, he could create a hundred-billion-yuan hotpot empire.
To be honest, Zhao Yulu's call surprised Xu Yang.
After they broke up, except for the last time Zhao Yulucalled him to borrow money, they had no contact at other times.
Zhao Yulu said, "It's like this, I hope you can persuade my dad to rent out the storefront…"
Before she could finish her sentence, Xu Yang interrupted her: "I don't know why you're calling me, and I don't know why you think I would agree to you, but I want to make one thing clear: Yu Xin and Dad's attitude is my attitude. Do you have anything else?"
Zhao Yulu glanced at Yang Tiancheng next to her, then said, "I understand. It's nothing."
After speaking, she hung up the phone.
Yang Tiancheng frowned: "How could this Xu Yang say such a thing?"
He thought that if Zhao Yulu called Xu Yang personally, Xu Yang would agree.
This was not what he had expected.
Zhao Yulu said, "He married my sister not because he's treating her as a substitute."
Yang Tiancheng shook his head: "Impossible. If he wasn't treating your sister as a substitute, why would he get married to her so quickly?"
Zhao Yulu stopped talking.
Yang Jingsheng, who had been silent all this time, spoke up: "Dad, let me handle this matter."
Yang Tiancheng was stunned and said in surprise, "Let you handle it? What method do you have to solve it?"
He knew his son's abilities.
He was good at chasing girls, but not at doing things.
In the group, if it weren't for his father, who was the Vice President, his son would never have become a manager.
Even now, he still faced pressure because many times, his son failed to complete tasks assigned by his superiors.
This made his superiors very dissatisfied, and sometimes they would complain to other senior executives.
When he told his son last night to look for a location for a hotpot restaurant, he was actually just letting his son go through the motions to take credit. He would assign a truly capable person as his son's assistant to get the job done.
Now, his son saying such a thing really surprised him.
Had his son finally matured? Did he know how to find solutions when encountering problems?
Zhao Yulu and Liu Yujuan were also very puzzled and surprised about what method Yang Jingsheng would have to solve it.
They, mother and daughter, naturally understood Yang Jingsheng's abilities.
They really didn't believe that Yang Jingsheng could come up with any solution.
Yang Jingsheng smiled confidently: "Dad, don't ask. In short, I will definitely get this done."
Yang Tiancheng was a bit uneasy: "Jingsheng, tell me first so I can consider it and see if your method will work."
Yang Jingsheng was displeased: "Dad, you should trust me. I'm a grown man. Can't I even handle such a small matter?"
Yang Tiancheng said helplessly, "It's not that I don't trust you, it's just that this matter is indeed very difficult."
Yang Jingsheng said, "Whether it's difficult or not depends on the person and whether they've thought of a solution. Don't you often say, 'What's difficult for the unskilled is easy for the skilled'? Don't worry, I've already thought of a solution, and it will definitely be a complete success."
Seeing that his son insisted on not saying, Yang Tiancheng could only say, "Alright, as long as you can get this done, I'll agree to your previous condition of changing cars and help you buy a Porsche Cayenne."
Yang Jingsheng didn't expect such a pleasant surprise and immediately said, "Dad, just get ready to spend money."
This was great, he had wanted to buy a Porsche Cayenne for a long time.
But the price was a bit expensive, and Dad had never agreed.
He didn't know how long he would have to nag before Dad would agree.
Now, it was finally within reach.
He was very confident in the method he had come up with.
He believed that as soon as it was implemented, Zhao Hai would definitely rent out the storefront.
Chapter 74 Acquisition and Name Change
The next day.
Xu Yang and Zhao Yuqing went to Fishing Fire Householdtogether and met its owner, Jiang Tai.
Zhao Yuqing introduced them to each other, and the three of them took their seats.
Jiang Tai said, "Mr. Xu, I believe Ms. Zhao has already told you about my situation. I want twenty-eight million. If you are willing, then acquire it. If not, then forget it. There's no need for us to talk any further."
This was his bottom line. With twenty-eight million, he could pay off his gambling debts.
His house was mortgaged, and several luxury cars were sold, leaving only an old Audi A6.
If it weren't for the fact that this old Audi A6 wouldn't sell for much, he would have wanted to sell it too.
He had asked all his relatives and friends who could lend money and raised quite a bit.
Even so, he was still short by twenty-six million.
He wanted twenty-eight million so he could have two million left for living expenses.
To be honest, if he hadn't been forced into a corner, he would never have sold Fishing Fire Household.
Fishing Fire Household had an annual profit of around ten million. The twenty-eight million could essentially be earned back in just three years.
But once it was sold, this profitable brand would be gone.
It would be almost impossible for him to become a boss again and establish a brand in the future.
He probably wouldn't have the chance to be a boss in this lifetime and would have to work for others.
Gambling truly ruins lives.
If he were given a chance to do it all over again, he definitely wouldn't gamble.
But in this world, time cannot flow backward.
Having reached this point, it was too late even to regret.
However, he absolutely had to secure the twenty-eight million and ensure he kept two million for living expenses; otherwise, his future life would undoubtedly be incredibly difficult.
Having two million saved would somewhat alleviate the pressure.
Xu Yang frowned slightly, "Mr. Jiang, can't you lower the price?"
The last time he acquired Fengcai Guild, Yang Tianchengalso directly stated the acquisition price: agree to talk, disagree not to talk.
It seemed the other party was also a straightforward person.
Jiang Tai shook his head, "I can't lower it. This is my bottom line. Otherwise, I won't be able to live later. Rather than that, I'd rather bear the gambling debts."
Xu Yang pondered for a moment, then nodded, "Alright, twenty-eight million it is."
Since he had already decided to acquire it, and the other party's attitude was so firm, Xu Yang had no other choice.
Anyway, Fishing Fire Household's financial situation was good, and its fundamentals were solid.
Therefore, it would be very easy for him to take over and transform it.
He still had one hundred million on him, and twenty-eight million was not a lot for him now.
The two parties signed the contract, and Xu Yangtransferred twenty-eight million to Jiang Tai.
From then on, Xu Yang became the owner of Fishing Fire Household.
Xu Yang asked Jiang Tai to gather the executives for a meeting, briefly introduced himself, and then had the President's Office release an announcement about the matter.
Afterward, Jiang Tai asked, "Mr. Xu, can I remain as President?"
He was going to work for someone else, and if possible, he hoped to continue working at Fishing Fire Household.
His ability to found Fishing Fire Household and manage it well proved his capability.
Serving as President should provide him with a decent income.
Although he felt that Xu Yang would definitely have someone familiar take over management, he still felt he should ask.
What if Xu Yang was willing to let him stay? Then he wouldn't have to look for a job elsewhere.
Xu Yang shook his head, "I'm sorry, I already have a candidate for the President's position."
"That's a shame." Jiang Tai was a bit disappointed, then continued, "Mr. Xu, I can also be a Vice President. Can you let me stay?"
He had lowered his demands, mainly because working in a familiar environment would be better.
Moreover, a Vice President's salary at the company was not low.
Xu Yang glanced at Jiang Tai and said bluntly, "Mr. Jiang, I'm sorry, I have no intention of hiring you. You lost money gambling, and I believe you are someone who doesn't know how to control his emotions. I don't feel comfortable entrusting any management position to you."
Xu Yang genuinely didn't feel comfortable entrusting any management position to Jiang Tai.
Moreover, Jiang Tai was the original owner of Fishing Fire Household. Remaining in the company would definitely influence many people, which would be detrimental to Zhao Hai's future takeover of Fishing Fire Household's management and reforms.
Jiang Tai gave a bitter smile, "I understand."
Although Xu Yang's words were unpleasant, that was the truth of the matter.
He indeed hadn't controlled himself, which led to this situation.
If it were him, he probably wouldn't continue to employ such a person either.
Helplessly, Jiang Tai packed his things and left.
Over the next few days, Xu Yang registered an investment company named Yang Xin Investment Company, with Xu Yang holding sixty percent of the shares and Zhao Yuxinholding forty percent.
He also appointed the Vice President of Fengcai Guild as the General Manager of the investment company.
The registered name of Fishing Fire Household was changed to Jiang Di Lao.
Furthermore, Fengcai Guild and Jiang Di Lao were changed to wholly-owned subsidiaries of Yang Xin Investment.
After finishing all of this, Xu Yang took the printed materials and went to his father-in-law's restaurant.
"Dad, these are some of my ideas for hot pot restaurant operations. Please take a look."
Xu Yang had printed out all the secrets to Jiang Di Lao's success and handed them to his father-in-law for review.
In the future, Zhao Hai would be the President of Jiang Di Lao, and these matters would all be his responsibility. The first step was to gain Zhao Hai's approval.
Zhao Hai took the documents and began to read, becoming more and more shocked as he went on.
The content was terrifyingly detailed.
Employee training, store selection, interior design, service items, compensation system, incentive system, and so on.
After reading, Zhao Hai couldn't help but sigh, "Xu Yang, it seems your acquisition of Fishing Fire Household was truly not a whim. You made so many preparations. At first, I didn't understand why you wanted to change the name of Fishing Fire Household, but now I understand. With this document, and by operating and managing according to what's written here, Jiang Di Lao will definitely not have to worry about not developing."
Xu Yang smiled, "Dad, do you see anything else you want to add?"
Zhao Hai shook his head with a wry smile, "No, this document, in my opinion, is perfect. Just follow what's written here."
Xu Yang said, "Dad, then I'll trouble you with this. We'll go to the company together tomorrow."
Zhao Hai nodded, "Okay, I'll familiarize myself with this document thoroughly tonight."
Xu Yang then said, "Dad, your restaurant will be merged into Jiang Di Lao. If the employees are willing to stay, they will all be merged into Jiang Di Lao and undergo unified training. Originally, I thought of having this store accounted for separately and giving you a certain percentage of the dividends, but then I thought about it and decided against it. You will serve as the General Manager of Jiang Di Lao, and in addition to your regular salary, I will give you ten percent of Jiang Di Lao's shares. What do you think?"
He had thought this through carefully. Giving his father-in-law a certain percentage of shares would be good for everyone.
Zhao Hai quickly shook his head, "Xu Yang, we are all family. It's fine if this store doesn't have dividends. I'll just be the General Manager and take a salary; how can I also take shares in Jiang Di Lao?"
He could imagine how valuable Jiang Di Lao would become once it developed.
Ten percent of the shares would definitely be an astronomical figure for him.
Chapter 75 Someone is causing trouble
Xu Yang said, "Dad, precisely because we are family, I can't let you suffer a loss. This matter is settled."
Zhao Hai smiled bitterly, "Xu Yang, but what you're giving is too much."
Xu Yang said, "Dad, we're family, so let's not talk about it anymore. Anyway, this is settled. I have something else to do, so I'll leave first. Be at the company at nine tomorrow. I'll organize a meeting then to formally introduce you to everyone."
With that, Xu Yang left.
Zhao Hai, after looking through the documents again, gathered his employees and explained the situation.
Because he had seen the information and knew that Jiang Di Lao's salary and benefits were quite good, about fifty percent higher than what he paid his employees, when he announced the new salaries, the employees were naturally very happy and all expressed their intention to continue working.
"Alright, I plan to keep this restaurant open for one more day. Tomorrow will be the last day. After that, it will undergo a unified renovation. You will all undergo unified training with Jiang Di Lao's employees. Everyone, stand your last shift," Zhao Hai said.
"Boss, don't worry, we've never made a mistake."
Everyone expressed that there were no problems.
Since they could earn higher wages in the future, only a fool would make a mistake.
"Good, it's almost mealtime. Everyone, get to work." Zhao Hai nodded in satisfaction and waved for everyone to disperse and work...
After leaving his father-in-law's restaurant, Xu Yang went to a private dining establishment.
Tonight, Jiang Yuhang had invited everyone to dinner.
There were four people in total: Xu Yang, Lin Junyi, Su Wenbin, and Jiang Yuhang.
It had been a while since they had all gathered together.
For this occasion, Xu Yang suggested bringing Zhao Yuxin, but she didn't come, saying it wouldn't be appropriate for her to join a gathering of several men, and that she would eat at her dad's restaurant.
Xu Yang arrived at the private dining room's private room and saw that Lin Junyi, Su Wenbin, and Jiang Yuhang had already arrived.
After several rounds of drinks and dishes.
"Xu Yang, what have you been busy with lately?" Jiang Yuhang asked.
"Recently, I acquired a hotpot restaurant," Xu Yangreplied.
The three of them were stunned by his words.
They hadn't expected Xu Yang, who was doing so well with his live-streaming guild, to suddenly get into hotpot.
Lin Junyi couldn't help but ask, "Xu Yang, what's going on with you? What made you think of doing hotpot?"
Xu Yang said, "I just felt this industry had good potential, and there happened to be a good hotpot restaurant, so I acquired it."
The three looked at each other, not quite knowing what to say.
Su Wenbin smiled bitterly, "Xu Yang, the scope of your investments is too broad. You were just running a live-streaming guild, and in the blink of an eye, you're doing hotpot."
Xu Yang said, "I just invest in whatever I think has potential. I don't have too many other thoughts. As for whether it crosses industries, that's not within my consideration. Anyway, I just acquire them; others manage everything. I'm not good at management myself."
As his voice fell, his phone rang.
He took it out and saw that it was Zhao Yuxin calling.
"Wife." Xu Yang answered the phone. Before long, his expression turned grim. "Wife, don't worry, I'll be right there."
The three of them could tell that something had happened.
Lin Junyi quickly asked, "Xu Yang, what happened?"
Xu Yang said, "Someone at my father-in-law's restaurant claimed to have found flies in the food, and that person is now shouting loudly in the store."
Lin Junyi said, "Damn it, Uncle Hai's restaurant! I know its hygiene standards very well. How could there be flies in the food? This is clearly someone causing trouble."
Xu Yang nodded and said, "My wife thinks so too. Brother Yi, Brother Bin, Old Jiang, I can't stay with you guys. I need to go back and check."
The three looked at each other and all expressed their support.
"We're fine, let's go together."
"Yes, maybe we can help."
"Let's go. I want to see who's causing trouble for Uncle Hai."
Xu Yang nodded, stood up, and said, "Alright, let's go then."
He didn't stand on ceremony, and he was worried about the situation at the restaurant, not wanting to waste time here.
The group left and headed towards Zhao Hai's restaurant... Old Zhao Restaurant.
A young man of about twenty-three or twenty-four was pointing at a plate of garlic spareribs on a table in front of him, shouting loudly at Zhao Hai, "This is the evidence! You're still arguing with me, saying your restaurant's hygiene is up to standard? Ask the people eating here if they're willing to believe that."
The other customers in the restaurant had already put down their chopsticks and lost their appetite ever since the young man claimed to have found several flies in his dish.
At this moment, hearing the young man's words, they immediately spoke up.
"Of course not. If there are several flies found, who knows how many flies are in the kitchen."
"I can't even imagine how messy the restaurant's kitchen must be if there are only a few flies in one dish."
"If several flies are found, there must be dozens, even hundreds of flies in that kitchen."
"I'm a regular customer here. The boss is quite nice, and I always thought the restaurant's hygiene was fine. I never expected it to be like this."
"This boss is definitely someone with a kind face but a black heart. Such people are the worst."
"This is definitely not just a hygiene issue. The other ingredients in the restaurant are probably not much better."
"Exactly. A black-hearted boss like this might buy rotten meat, and other vegetables and such are definitely the worst quality."
"The boss's heart is too black. I'll never eat here again."
"People like this should be arrested and put in jail."
Everyone was filled with righteous indignation, growing angrier and more outlandish with their words, relying entirely on their own imagination to make accusations. After all, no matter what they said, they wouldn't be held responsible.
As for whether the truth was actually like that, it wasn't their concern.
If they believed it was so, that was enough.
Zhao Hai took a deep breath and said, "Sir, what do you want?"
With his discerning eye, he could naturally tell that the young man in front of him was likely there to cause trouble.
He knew the restaurant's hygiene better than anyone; it was absolutely impossible for there to be flies in the food, let alone several.
Moreover, the young man in front of him looked like a hooligan, and every word he spoke seemed designed to escalate the situation.
This made Zhao Hai even more convinced that the other party was there to cause trouble.
As for why the other party would do such a thing, he couldn't understand.
But he knew that at this moment, arguing was useless.
So many customers were watching, and the young man had already set the narrative.
Zhao Yuxin was very angry but didn't know what to do.
She had no experience dealing with such matters.
She had called Xu Yang just now, also wanting to see if he had any solutions.
The young man said, "Boss, it's not what I want, but what you want. You, a black-hearted boss like this, still running a restaurant, do you have any conscience?"
He was indeed there to cause trouble today; he wanted to escalate the situation and make sure this restaurant couldn't stay open.
"Exactly, this restaurant absolutely cannot stay open."
"The boss is black-hearted; continuing to run the restaurant is harming people."
"Now it's flies; who knows what else will be found later."
"Will rats crawl into the hotpot then?"
"It's not impossible; maybe it's happened before."
The customers in the restaurant were all discussing.
Chapter 76 You Are Right, What Are You Afraid Of?
Zhao Hai remained relatively calm: "The hygiene of our restaurant is not an issue. I don't know who sent you, but your act of slander is against the law."
"What?!" The young man jumped up, "Damn it, you're actually saying I slandered you? There are flies in the dishes at your restaurant, and you're still right? And you're saying I slandered you?"
Everyone became suspicious.
From Zhao Hai's words, it sounded like someone had hired this young man to slander the boss?
At this point, they temporarily fell silent.
If the young man was indeed sent by a competitor to slander them, then it would be somewhat unreasonable for them to still blame Zhao Hai.
Seeing that the others were silent, the young man immediately became anxious and shouted, "You black-hearted boss, do you think you can shirk responsibility by confusing the public like this? Can you divert everyone's attention? I'm telling you, the public's eyes are sharp, and your conspiracy will not succeed."
It must be said that although this young man appeared to be a hooligan, he was quite articulate.
Upon hearing this, everyone again leaned towards believing the young man.
"What this young man said should be true; this boss is trying to confuse the public."
"I also think that a boss with such a kind face but a black heart is very good at handling these kinds of things."
"Our eyes are sharp; we will definitely not be fooled."
"Young man, we believe you."
"Yes, we support you, down with the black-hearted boss."
Everyone spoke up again.
Zhao Hai's expression was a bit grim: "Sir, please don't talk nonsense. I'm not shirking responsibility, nor am I trying to divert attention. I just want to resolve the matter."
The young man sneered, "You're still arguing? Alright, let's discuss how to resolve it. Regarding the flies in your restaurant's dishes, how much compensation will you offer?"
This was a trap; as long as Zhao Hai was willing to compensate, it would mean that Zhao Hai admitted that there were flies in the dishes.
But how could Zhao Hai not see the young man's malicious intentions?
This matter absolutely could not be compensated for, otherwise the restaurant would be completely finished.
Although after tomorrow, the restaurant would close and become a branch of Jiangdilao.
But the reputation he had accumulated over more than ten years of running the restaurant absolutely could not be destroyed like this.
Zhao Hai said, "I know better than anyone what kind of food my restaurant serves. I just called the Health Bureauand reported it to the police. What the truth is, we'll wait for them to arrive and see what they say."
A flicker of panic flashed in the young man's eyes, but he quickly calmed down and snorted, "You black-hearted boss, you must have already bribed the health inspectors and the police. You'll try to slander me in return. I will absolutely not let you succeed. If you're not compensating, then so be it. Consider me unlucky, but don't think this matter is over. I've already taken a video, and I'll upload it online later. I'd like to see how you, this black-hearted boss, can keep your black-hearted establishment open."
After speaking, he was about to leave.
Zhao Hai had not fallen into the trap he had dug.
Moreover, since the other party had already called the police, he couldn't stay here any longer.
Otherwise, if the health inspectors and police arrived, it would be troublesome.
Those people would know everything with a simple inspection of the kitchen.
And in front of the police, he didn't think he could hold up.
Although he didn't know the hygiene of the restaurant kitchen, judging by the boss's demeanor, it should be fine.
He had to leave quickly. Anyway, he had already taken a video, and uploading it online would complete his task.
"You can't leave!" Zhao Hai stepped forward to block the young man.
"Black-hearted boss, what else do you want?" The young man narrowed his eyes and then said to everyone, "Look, everyone, this black-hearted boss, there are flies in the dishes at his restaurant, and now he's trying to lay hands on me. Are you just going to stand by and watch this black-hearted boss act recklessly?"
Zhao Yuxin was extremely angry hearing the young man repeatedly call her father a black-hearted boss.
However, she didn't know what to do.
Even if she wanted to refute, she knew that in this situation, a simple rebuttal would appear pale and powerless.
Moreover, her father had told her not to interfere.
Everyone was incited again.
"Boss, you're going too far."
"This young man wants to leave, why won't you let him? Are you feeling guilty?"
"Boss, if you dare to lay hands on this young man, we won't agree."
Many of the customers who came to eat were standing behind the young man.
Zhao Hai said very calmly, "Everyone, don't let him lead you on. I just said, wait for the health inspectors and police to arrive, and then everything will come to light. Since he keeps calling me a black-hearted boss and my restaurant a black-hearted restaurant, why can't he wait for the health inspectors and police to arrive?"
Everyone was stunned upon hearing this.
They hadn't noticed this point just now.
Now, hearing Zhao Hai mention it again, it really seemed to be the case.
Since the boss dared to let the health inspectors and police come, he obviously wasn't afraid of an investigation.
Did this mean that the young man was really here to cause trouble?
At this moment, Xu Yang arrived with Lin Junyi and the other two.
Seeing his father-in-law handle this matter so calmly, he wasn't in a hurry to step forward, but instead walked over to Zhao Yuxin.
Soon, he learned the details from Zhao Yuxin.
Earlier on the phone, Zhao Yuxin had only briefly mentioned a few things.
"This person must have been hired by someone to cause trouble, but I don't know who hired him," Xu Yang said.
"The restaurant has never had any issues. These past few days, Yang Tiancheng has been trying to rent the storefront, so it's possible Yang Tiancheng hired him," Zhao Yuxin speculated.
She couldn't be certain, but she felt there was a high probability that Yang Tiancheng was behind it.
The goal was to make the restaurant unable to operate, so they would rent it out to them.
"It's very possible." Xu Yang nodded, then added, "Our dad handled it well. He truly is the presidential candidate I chose."
When Zhao Hai encountered problems, he handled them logically and calmly, directly reporting to the Health Bureau and the police. This was an absolutely wise decision.
In the face of others' slander, only health inspectors and the police could clear his father-in-law's and the restaurant's name.
"Of course, and look whose dad he is."
Zhao Yuxin's lips curved into a smile.
She was also proud of her father's way of handling things.
She had been very anxious and hadn't noticed this point her father made. Now, hearing Xu Yang mention it, she recalled that it was indeed true.
Ever since the incident occurred, her father had directly stepped forward, first explaining to the young man, then, based on the young man's abnormal reaction, determining that he must have been instigated by someone, and then reporting to the Health Bureau and the police.
Step by step, he was changing the customers' perceptions.
"Young man, the boss is right. Since the boss dares to let the health inspectors and police come, what's the harm in waiting a bit?"
"Young man, if you're right, what are you afraid of?"
"That's right, young man, a few flies are solid evidence, so don't be afraid of him bringing people over."
The restaurant customers all tried to persuade him.
Chapter 77 The Truth Comes to Light
The young man's forehead broke out in a fine sweat, and he said somewhat anxiously, "Don't listen to his nonsense. Who said I wasn't willing to wait? I have an urgent matter, something I need to handle quickly, and I can't continue to waste time here."
Zhao Hai said, "You're afraid to see the police, aren't you?"
The young man stiffened his neck and said, "Who says I'm afraid to see the police? I haven't done anything wrong, why would I be afraid to see the police?"
Zhao Hai said, "Since you're not afraid to see the police, then wait until they arrive."
The young man said, "I've already told you, I have an urgent matter to deal with and no time to waste here. If you're not going to compensate me, then forget it, I don't want it. Get out of my way!"
He was getting anxious. Since Zhao Hai had already called the police, they could arrive at any moment.
To be honest, Zhao Hai's response far exceeded his expectations.
In his mind, Zhao Hai wouldn't call the police.
He should have just offered a simple compensation to settle the matter.
That would have played right into his hands.
But Zhao Hai called the police so decisively, and his words were airtight, leaving no room for exploitation.
This put him in a very passive position.
If the police came, with his record at the police station, it would be impossible for anyone to believe him.
He had done this kind of thing many times before.
The police would know as soon as they saw him and checked his records.
He had to leave quickly!
He pushed Zhao Hai and quickly walked away.
Zhao Hai hadn't expected the young man to get physical. Caught off guard, his body stumbled.
"Dad!"
Seeing Zhao Hai about to fall to the ground, Zhao Yuxinturned pale with fright.
Xu Yang was quick-witted and immediately stepped forward to support him.
"Kid, you still want to leave?"
Lin Junyi, Su Wenbin, and Jiang Yuhang blocked the young man's path.
"What are you doing? Get out of my way! I have an urgent matter to deal with. If I'm delayed, I don't know how much I'll lose, and you can't afford to compensate me!" the young man roared.
"Is that so?" Jiang Yuhang sneered, "If I'm not mistaken, you should be one of Ma Biao's men, right?"
Hearing this, the young man's expression changed, then quickly returned to normal: "I don't know what you're talking about. What Ma Biao? I don't know him."
Jiang Yuhang sneered, "You don't need to deny it. I remember seeing you last month when I went to find Ma Biao; I have a vague impression."
The young man's expression changed again: "You've got the wrong person."
Jiang Yuhang sneered, "Whether I have the wrong person or not, I'll know if I call Ma Biao."
He took out his phone and dialed Ma Biao's number.
The young man's expression changed: "Whether you make the call or not has nothing to do with me. I have something to do, so I'm leaving first."
After speaking, he tried to bypass the three men and leave.
However, how could Lin Junyi and Su Wenbin let the young man leave?
With the two of them blocking him, no matter how capable the young man was, he couldn't break through their obstruction.
Soon, the call connected.
Jiang Yuhang was making a WeChat video call.
A burly Crew-cut man appeared in the video, laughing heartily, "Young Master Jiang, why are you calling me tonight? Do you want to come to my entertainment city tonight to have some fun?"
Jiang Yuhang rolled his eyes: "Get lost, who wants to go to your entertainment city? I want to ask you, is this person one of your subordinates?"
He aimed the camera at the young man.
Ma Biao said, "He is my subordinate. What's wrong? Did this guy not have eyes and offend you? If so, don't worry, I will definitely deal with him!"
Hearing this, the young man's face turned pale.
How did this person in front of him know his boss? And judging by his boss's tone, he seemed to be trying to curry favor with the other party.
It seemed the matter he caused today was going to be a big one.
"It's like this..." Jiang Yuhang explained the situation.
"Damn it, Wang Wu, that bastard, how dare he do such a thing? When he comes back, I'll teach him a lesson!" Ma Biao cursed through gritted teeth.
He didn't need to verify; he knew Jiang Yuhang was telling the truth.
Wang Wu often did this kind of thing and had been to the police station several times for it.
Since it never caused any major commotion, Ma Biao didn't bother to intervene.
Now, this was great; he had offended Jiang Yuhang.
This matter was serious.
With Jiang Yuhang's status and position, it would be a matter of minutes to find others to deal with him.
He cursed Wang Wu's ancestors eighteen generations back in his heart.
"How you deal with him when he returns is none of my business. Now, shouldn't you say something to him first?" Jiang Yuhang said indifferently.
"Yes, yes, I'll say a few words to him first." Ma Biao nodded repeatedly.
Then, Jiang Yuhang handed the phone to Wang Wu: "Your boss wants to talk to you."
"Boss." Wang Wu nervously took the phone, his face filled with panic.
"Wang Wu, who the hell paid you to do this? I don't want to know. You'd better tell the truth now and confess everything when the police arrive, otherwise, don't blame me for being ruthless." Ma Biao said fiercely.
"Boss, I understand." Wang Wu's face was full of bitterness.
After hanging up, Wang Wu returned the phone to Jiang Yuhang.
The commotion here had long attracted the attention of other customers.
Now, everyone knew that the young man was most likely here to cause trouble.
"Oh my, this guy was instigated by someone else to cause trouble."
"Damn it, we were all fooled by him."
"This bastard, we almost wrongly accused the boss."
Everyone was filled with righteous indignation.
Being used as a pawn, they were very unhappy.
They no longer called the young man 'little brother,' but 'kid.'
At this moment, the health inspector and police arrived.
Wang Wu confessed voluntarily, saying that someone had given him ten thousand yuan to cause trouble, to ruin the restaurant's reputation and make it unable to operate.
Hearing his personal admission, the truth came out, and everyone became even more furious.
They realized that they had just been manipulated by the young man, led astray, and almost became accomplices.
"I said the restaurant owner is very good; how could there be a fly in the food?"
"This kid almost made us wrongly accuse a good boss."
"The food here tastes good, I'll continue to come here to eat in the future."
"Me too, I'll continue to come eat in the future."
"Boss, I'm sorry, we wrongly accused you just now."
Everyone spoke up, expressing their apologies to Zhao Hai.
"It's alright. This restaurant will be open for its last day tomorrow. Everyone who dines today will get 20% off as a thank you for your continuous support." Zhao Haiwaved his hand.
"Boss, why are you closing? This incident didn't affect the restaurant," a customer asked, puzzled.
The incident had been clarified; someone was causing trouble.
"This place is being renovated into a hot pot restaurant. Everyone is welcome to come here for hot pot in the future," Zhao Hai said with a smile.
He didn't explain in detail that it was being renovated into a branch of Haidilao.
There was no need; they would know naturally when the time came.
"So that's it, changing to hot pot. That's actually not bad. I'll come for hot pot in the future."
"Me too, hot pot is suitable for gatherings with friends."
"Boss, I wish your hot pot restaurant more and more success."
The customers suddenly understood and all said they would come for hot pot.
After a brief chat, the customers all returned to their seats and continued eating.
Chapter 78 You Idiot
"Who sent you to cause trouble?" the police asked Wang Wu.
"I don't know the name. The other party contacted me via WeChat, gave me ten thousand yuan, and just told me to come here and cause trouble, to make sure this restaurant couldn't stay open," Wang Wu said bitterly.
He was going to be in trouble again because of this.
"Open your phone's WeChat and show me the chat history," the police said.
Wang Wu took out his phone and opened the chat history with the other party.
[Affectionate Young Master]: A friend introduced me. There's something I want you to do.
[Brother Wu of Jiangcheng]: No problem, what is it?
[Affectionate Young Master]: Cause trouble at a restaurant, make sure it can't stay open.
[Brother Wu of Jiangcheng]: This kind of thing is my specialty. Ten thousand yuan, money first, then work. Honest business.
[Affectionate Young Master]: Your friend, Brother Le, recommended you to me. Can't you make it cheaper?
[Brother Wu of Jiangcheng]: Boss, it's precisely because Brother Le introduced you that I'm only charging ten thousand. Otherwise, I'd directly charge twenty thousand. This matter has risks. If I encounter a tough boss, I might get beaten, or even beaten half to death. All I earn is blood money, so boss, please don't haggle.
[Affectionate Young Master]: Alright, ten thousand it is.
[Affectionate Young Master]: Transferring ten thousand.
[Brother Wu of Jiangcheng]: Received ten thousand.
[Brother Wu of Jiangcheng]: Send over the restaurant name and address.
[Affectionate Young Master]: Old Zhao's Restaurant, address is XX Road, YY Number.
[Brother Wu of Jiangcheng]: When do you want me to act?
[Affectionate Young Master]: Tomorrow night.
[Brother Wu of Jiangcheng]: Just wait for my good news. I guarantee that the day after tomorrow, this restaurant will be out of business.
[Affectionate Young Master]: I hope you don't disappoint me.
[Brother Wu of Jiangcheng]: Just put your heart at ease. I, Brother Wu of Jiangcheng, am absolutely reliable. When have I ever not handled things perfectly? If it weren't for that, Brother Le wouldn't have introduced you to me.
[Affectionate Young Master]: Okay, I'll wait for your good news.
End of chat.
The police chuckled, "Brother Wu of Jiangcheng, that name sounds quite imposing."
The young man gave an embarrassed smile, "For someone in our line of work, isn't it necessary to have a name that sounds powerful?"
The police said, "You'll come back with us. We'll arrange for someone to investigate who this Affectionate Young Master is."
Afterward, the police left.
The sanitation inspection bureau personnel checked the kitchen, found no problems, and also left.
The matter was finally resolved.
Lin Junyi and the two others said their goodbyes and also left.
Only Xu Yang and Zhao Yuxin remained, accompanying Zhao Hai.
Zhao Yuxin said angrily, "Dad, this must be Yang Tiancheng's doing. He just doesn't want the restaurant to stay open, so he resorted to such despicable tactics. He's truly shameless."
Zhao Hai shook his head and said, "This isn't Yang Tiancheng's doing. I understand him. Although he is very shameless and doesn't mind using despicable methods to attack competitors, this incident is too low-level. It's not something an old fox like him would do. Finding someone to cause trouble to shut down my restaurant, thinking he could then lease my storefront, he wouldn't be that naive. The person who sent someone to cause trouble is definitely a novice."
Zhao Yuxin frowned, "Then who else would hire someone to cause trouble? We haven't offended anyone else, have we?"
Zhao Hai shook his head and said, "No, I can't figure out who is targeting me."
To be honest, he was also very puzzled.
Among his peers, it was impossible for the neighboring restaurant to target him.
His restaurant had been open for over ten years.
He got along quite well with the owners of the neighboring restaurants.
Everyone was in business; normal competition was fine, like discounts and promotions, but they would definitely not resort to such methods to deal with him.
Moreover, this wasn't something a mature person would do.
It was more like something someone with the mindset of a petty hoodlum would do.
Xu Yang said, "Dad, if you can't guess, then don't. The police already know about the WeChat, and they'll find out as soon as they investigate. I'll have a lawyer follow up on this matter. No matter who it is, they won't be let off."
WeChat accounts are registered under real names, so with a WeChat ID, it's easy to find the real person.
Zhao Hai nodded and said, "Yes, the police should be able to catch the mastermind very soon."
...Outside the restaurant.
Yang Jingsheng sat in his car, observing everything inside the restaurant.
Wang Wu was the person he had hired.
This was his plan.
He thought that if Zhao Hai's restaurant couldn't stay open, Zhao Hai would lease it out.
At first, he saw everything going smoothly.
Although he couldn't hear the sounds inside the restaurant, he could basically tell what was happening from the behavior of Wang Wu and the other customers.
But not long after, the situation changed.
Xu Yang arrived with people, and then sanitation inspectors and police also arrived.
The police took Wang Wu away.
At this point, Yang Jingsheng was completely stunned.
Seeing Wang Wu being taken away by the police, Yang Jingsheng panicked.
Since it was someone introduced by a friend, and his friend had said that the person was absolutely reliable, as long as Wang Wu was sent, there would be no problem.
He used his own phone to add Wang Wu's WeChat and contacted him directly.
WeChat is registered under real names, so it would be very easy for the police to find him.
He immediately started his car and rushed home.
Upon returning home, he immediately found Yang Tiancheng, explained the situation, and then said with a mournful face, "Dad, what do we do now? If the police come looking for me, even if I don't go to jail, I'll definitely be detained and fined!"
"You idiot!" Yang Tiancheng couldn't help but curse, this was the first time he had cursed his son like this, "Who do you think Zhao Hai is? How could a hooligan causing trouble casually make him helpless?"
He had heard his son's confident assurances that he had a solution, so he decided to trust his son for once.
But he didn't expect his son to be so foolish, using such a low-level trick to deal with Zhao Hai.
If Zhao Hai were that easy to deal with, he wouldn't have been taken seriously by him before.
Zhao Yulu and Liu Yujuan also looked at Yang Jingshengwith mocking eyes.
They had thought that Yang Jingsheng had come up with some brilliant idea.
They hadn't expected him to think of sending hooligans to cause trouble.
Yang Jingsheng's brain really wasn't that great.
Yang Jingsheng was currently anxious and didn't notice the looks from the two of them, otherwise he would surely have been furious.
He was incompetent, but he was unwilling to admit it.
It's very difficult for a person to admit their own incompetence.
Don't be fooled by some people who constantly say, "I'm not very capable." In reality, they're just saying it; they don't truly believe they're incompetent.
This is true no matter what social class a person belongs to.
Yang Jingsheng said bitterly, "I also didn't expect him to be so formidable, just like that, he broke my plan."
Immediately, he gritted his teeth again, "Oh right, that Xu Yang got involved! If it weren't for him, the person I hired would have run away and wouldn't have been caught by the police. You could say that the current situation is all because of Xu Yang!"
He had seen it clearly: Xu Yang arrived with several people. Wang Wu had originally pushed Zhao Hai away and was about to leave, but the people Xu Yang brought stopped Wang Wu, and finally, the police arrived and Wang Wu was caught.
Chapter 79 Pleading
Yang Tiancheng said, "This matter, to this point, Xu Yangis indeed the biggest reason. It's just that what you did was really not good. Even if you make Zhao Hai's restaurant unable to operate, do you think he will rent the storefront to us?"
Yang Jingsheng was stunned: "Isn't that the case?"
Yang Tiancheng shook his head and said, "You are too naive. Even if the restaurant can't operate, he won't rent it to us."
Yang Jingsheng said, "Is it because of the grudge between you and him back then?"
Yang Tiancheng nodded and said, "Exactly."
Yang Jingsheng said, "I thought that even with the grudge between you and him, as long as he couldn't operate, he would still rent it to us for the sake of money."
Yang Tiancheng sighed and said, "I am also responsible for this matter. If I had known, I wouldn't have let you do it."
He understood his son and really shouldn't have trusted him.
Yang Jingsheng anxiously said, "Dad, let's not talk about that now. The police will be here tomorrow at the latest. What should I do now?"
Yang Tiancheng thought for a moment and said, "There's nothing we can do now. We can only find Zhao Hai, apologize to him, and get his forgiveness. As long as he forgives you, the police won't make things difficult for you. I can give Zhao Hai some money, a hundred thousand or two hundred thousand is fine."
Yang Jingsheng nodded repeatedly: "Yes, yes, Dad, quickly call Zhao Hai and tell him that I will apologize to him and compensate him two hundred thousand, so that he won't pursue my responsibility. Then the police won't make things difficult for me, at most it will just be a fine."
Yang Tiancheng took out his phone and dialed Zhao Hai's number.
Soon, the call connected.
Yang Tiancheng immediately said, "Zhao Hai, I am Yang Tiancheng."
Zhao Hai said indifferently, "Why are you calling me?"
Yang Tiancheng carefully chose his words and said, "Zhao Hai, someone caused trouble at your restaurant tonight. My son had people do it."
Zhao Hai suddenly realized, "I've been wondering all this time who wanted to deal with me, but after thinking about it, only you could possibly deal with me. But I knew you couldn't possibly use such childish methods against me. I was very confused, wondering if you had become senile. So it was your son who did it. I can understand now. Only that useless son would do such a thing."
Hearing Zhao Hai call his son useless, Yang Tianchengfelt a bit embarrassed, but since this call was to resolve the matter, he couldn't get angry. He could only take a deep breath, suppress the anger in his heart, and say, "Zhao Hai, I'm calling to find a solution to this matter. I apologize to you on behalf of my son and will compensate you two hundred thousand. I hope you won't pursue my son's responsibility. How about we go to the police station tomorrow and sign a private mediation agreement?"
"No way!" Zhao Hai said indifferently, "Your son did such a thing and still wants me not to pursue it. That's impossible. Don't say you'll give me two hundred thousand, even if you give me two million, I will still pursue it."
Yang Tiancheng's expression was grim: "Zhao Hai, if you insist on pursuing it, my son will be detained for at least ten days to half a month. If he is detained, he will have a criminal record, which will affect his work and life in the future. My son is just young and acted without thinking. Can't you be a little more magnanimous? Don't you know that what you're doing could ruin my son!"
"I ruined your son?" Zhao Hai laughed, "Why don't you say that when he found people to cause trouble, he wanted to ruin my restaurant?"
Yang Tiancheng said, "Isn't your restaurant fine now? Can't you just let it go?"
Zhao Hai sneered, "You say that so easily. If it weren't for my brain still being somewhat useful, my restaurant might really have been ruined by your son. You ask me to let it go, don't you think that's ridiculous?"
Yang Tiancheng said righteously, "I'm compensating you two hundred thousand, which is half a year's income for you, right?"
Zhao Hai sneered, "I just said, don't say you'll give me two hundred thousand, even if you give me two million, I will still pursue your son's responsibility. That's the price he should pay for his wrongdoing. Don't talk to me about him being young and acting without thinking. You should say he's brainless. I think it's good to let him go in and reflect."
Yang Tiancheng said in a deep voice, "Zhao Hai, so there's nothing to discuss?"
Zhao Hai said, "Nothing to discuss."
Yang Tiancheng said no more, directly hung up the phone, his face extremely grim.
Although Yang Jingsheng didn't hear everything Zhao Haisaid, just by listening to Yang Tiancheng, he knew that a private settlement was out of the question, so he anxiously said, "Dad, what do we do now? I don't want to be detained."
Yang Tiancheng thought for a moment, then looked at Zhao Yulu: "Yulu, call your biological father. Plead with him, see if he can forgive Jingsheng for your sake, his biological daughter. As long as you get him to agree not to pursue Jingsheng's responsibility, I'll give you a car worth two hundred thousand."
Yang Jingsheng's eyes lit up: "Yes, Yulu, call your biological father and plead with him. I beg you, if you help me this one time, I'll do whatever you ask me to do at home from now on."
Zhao Yulu said, "He probably won't listen to me."
She knew what kind of weight she held in Zhao Hai's heart.
The last time she borrowed money from Zhao Hai, she could tell from his attitude.
Zhao Hai wouldn't treat her differently just because she was his biological daughter.
Moreover, she wasn't willing to make that call.
In fact, seeing that Yang Jingsheng might be detained, she even felt a little happy.
This wasn't gloating.
But for so many years, Yang Jingsheng had enjoyed Yang Tiancheng's concern, and Yang Tiancheng had given all the good things to Yang Jingsheng.
Comparatively, she hadn't fared so well.
In this situation, she really didn't want to save Yang Jingsheng.
Yang Tiancheng frowned: "How do you know he won't listen to you if you don't try? Call him now, in front of all of us, and put it on speakerphone."
This was an order, and Zhao Yulu could not refuse.
Although Zhao Yulu was angry, she still took out her phone and dialed Zhao Hai's number.
Soon, the call connected.
Zhao Yulu immediately said, "Dad, regarding my brother's matter, can you, for my sake, your biological daughter, not pursue his responsibility?"
To be honest, she felt a bit ashamed saying this.
Aside from the blood relationship, that she was Zhao Hai's daughter, they really didn't have much other connection.
Making such a request to Zhao Hai was truly a bit shameless.
Zhao Hai said indifferently, "No, this matter has nothing to do with you, don't interfere. Whoever does something must bear the responsibility."
Liu Yujuan spoke up, "Zhao Hai, how can you be so cold-blooded? Yulu is your daughter, and she has never asked you for anything since she was little. Now that she's asking you, you're unmoved. Do you have any humanity?!"
Chapter 80 Detention
Although Liu Yujuan also disliked Yang Jingsheng and felt a bit happy that he was detained.
However, she knew how much Yang Tiancheng valued his son, Jingsheng.
Even though Yang Tiancheng hadn't asked her to do anything, at a time like this, she still needed to show a helpful attitude.
Seeing her say this, Yang Tiancheng couldn't help but nod.
He was quite satisfied with Liu Yujuan's performance.
At this moment, Zhao Yuxin's voice came from the phone: "Liu Yujuan, how dare you say my dad is cold-blooded, say my dad is inhumane? Honestly, I've never seen anyone as shameless as you. I'm telling you, don't call us again. Yang Jingsheng, having done such a thing, must pay the price. We will pursue this to the end!"
After speaking, she hung up the phone directly.
On the Yang Family's side, the faces of several people were very grim.
"Yulu, your biological father is truly inhumane, not even listening to his own daughter!" Yang Jingshengcomplained somewhat.
Zhao Yulu pursed her lips and said nothing.
"Since reconciliation is impossible, we can only think of other ways," Liu Yujuan diverted Yang Jingsheng's attention so that he wouldn't target Zhao Yulu.
"Dad, what other options are there?" Yang Jingsheng no longer bothered to complain about Zhao Yulu.
"There's no other way. Now we can only contact some connections to see if we can suppress this matter," Yang Tiancheng sighed.
"Okay, Dad, use all your connections. Anyway, no damage was caused to Zhao Hai's restaurant, so it should be fine, right?" Yang Jingsheng said.
"I'm not sure, I can only try my best to find people to help," Yang Tiancheng really had no confidence.
This wasn't like before. Before, as long as you had connections, such matters were easily swept under the rug.
But now, things are gradually becoming standardized. When official people do things, even if they want to help, they do so within the scope of what is allowed by the rules and won't joke with their own livelihoods.
"Dad, you must find someone to help solve this. I really don't want to be detained," Yang Jingsheng said bitterly.
"I know, I'll go make a call." Yang Tiancheng got up and went back to his room to make calls... The next day.
Yang Jingsheng went to work with no enthusiasm at all.
In the past, the first thing he would do when he arrived at the company was to flirt with the beautiful female employees in the department, but today he had no mood at all and went straight into his office.
From his gloomy expression, one could tell he was in a very bad mood.
Yang Jingsheng's mood was indeed not good.
Because his dad said that he had pulled some strings, but wasn't sure if it would work.
This made him anxious. If it didn't work, he would be detained, so how could he be in the mood to flirt with female employees?
Even when pretty female employees greeted him, he didn't respond.
"What's wrong with Manager Yang today?"
"I don't know, he seems to have something on his mind."
"Could it be that he broke up with his girlfriend?"
"Even if he broke up with his girlfriend, it wouldn't be like this. He's not short of girlfriends; if one breaks up, he quickly gets a new one."
"Let's just focus on work and not worry too much. He has a dad who is a Vice President, so no matter what, his life is better than ours."
"Right, this isn't what we should be concerned about. Let's focus on the work at hand."
The employees discussed animatedly.
Yang Jingsheng entered his office, put down his briefcase, and leaned back in his chair, staring blankly at the ceiling.
After an unknown amount of time, his phone on the desk rang.
Suddenly, it startled him.
He looked at the caller ID, and his face immediately changed; it was a City Bureau (Police) phone number.
This was not a good sign.
He took a deep breath and answered the phone: "Hello."
A deep voice came from the phone: "Hello, I'm a police officer from the City Bureau (Police). Are you Yang Jingsheng?"
Yang Jingsheng's heart trembled: "Yes, is there something I can help you with?"
The police officer said: "You are involved in a case. Please come to the City Bureau (Police) for investigation."
Yang Jingsheng's face turned pale: "Okay, okay, I'll be right there."
His dad's connections definitely didn't work.
Otherwise, they wouldn't have told him to come in for investigation.
He quickly got up, left his office, and soon arrived at his dad's Vice President's office.
"Dad, the City Bureau (Police) called and told me to come in for investigation." Yang Jingsheng's face was still a bit pale.
"Alas, I just received a call from a friend too, saying they couldn't handle it. Zhao Hai hired a lawyer to follow up on this matter, so they can't help even if they wanted to," Yang Tiancheng sighed.
"Dad, is there really no other way?" Yang Jingsheng's face turned even paler.
"There's no other way," Yang Tiancheng shook his head bitterly.
He also wanted to save his son, but he couldn't, so there was nothing he could do.
"Then how long will I be detained?" Yang Jingshengasked with a mournful face.
This was definitely terrible news for him.
If he went, he would definitely lose this job.
Even with his dad's connections, the company wouldn't keep him.
Unless the boss or shareholders spoke up, there was no way he would stay with the company.
Yang Tiancheng's influence as a Vice President was not enough.
"In this situation, my friend said it should be seven days to half a month," Yang Tiancheng said.
"Dad, is there really no other way?" Yang Jingsheng was still a bit unwilling.
He hadn't thought of running away.
After all, this matter wasn't very serious, but if he ran away, it would become serious.
If he was caught, it might not just be detention or staying in a detention center; he might even go to jail.
He still had that much sense.
"No, there isn't. You go. Don't do such foolish things in the future. As for your job, we'll talk about it after you get out," Yang Tiancheng sighed.
Yang Jingsheng said nothing more, turning and leaving disheartened.
Watching his son's retreating back, Yang Tianchengsighed heavily.
Immediately, a cold glint flashed in his eyes.
"Zhao Hai, you caused my son to be detained. If I ever get the chance, I will definitely not let you off."
... On the other side.
Xu Yang and Zhao Hai arrived at Jiangdilao and held a high-level meeting.
"This is Mr. Zhao Hai. Mr. Zhao will be the company's President from now on, fully responsible for the company's daily management." Xu Yang introduced Zhao Hai to Jiangdilao's senior management.
Xu Yang said a few words and then left.
The next work was left to Zhao Hai.
He believed that with Zhao Hai's ability, he would definitely be able to manage the company well.
Zhao Hai announced that company employees would undergo unified training, and the company's stores would undergo unified redecoration.
He also announced the latest salary system and incentive system to all employees.
The employees were all very excited when they saw it.
Because their salaries had increased by half.
This was simply a huge surprise for them.
Such opportunities for salary increases don't come along every day.