"Fan Juan, this bidding project is crucial. We absolutely cannot let it fall into the hands of those foreigners. But very few of our domestic enterprises meet the qualifications, and those that do lack the technical expertise of the foreigners."
The senior leader wore a troubled expression. The bidding conference was approaching, yet the issues remained unresolved.
Fan Juan frowned in thought. They needed foreign technical support but didn’t want these outsiders interfering in the project.
"Senior Leader, what about a Sino-foreign joint venture? The enterprise remains ours, but we bring in foreign technology—they take a stake without meddling in the project. The core control stays with our own enterprise, and we can learn their technology along the way."
"A joint venture? Explain."
"We raise the requirements further—only domestic enterprises that meet our state-owned enterprise standards can bid. That way, these foreign companies will have to find local partners to secure the project. Meanwhile, we discreetly arrange for them to collaborate with our chosen enterprise."
"The foreigners aren’t fools. They’ll see through it and might not pick the enterprise we’ve set up for them."
"What if this enterprise has ties to Hong Kong, isn’t based in Beijing, and isn’t state-owned? Between a Beijing-based state-owned enterprise and a private one with Hong Kong connections, Senior Leader, which do you think they’d choose?"
"Fan Juan, you must have someone in mind. Tell me, and I’ll have them thoroughly vetted. If everything checks out, I’ll personally negotiate with them."
Fan Juan escorted Boss Huo through an alleyway to a small courtyard.
"What kind of restaurant is this, hidden so deep in the alleys? The food must be exceptional."
Boss Huo followed Fan Juan, glancing around the quiet, nearly deserted lane.
"Someone wishes to meet you, Boss Huo. But there is indeed an old, renowned restaurant here. I’ve reserved a table—their ancestors were imperial chefs, and they don’t take reservations from just anyone."
"Then I’m in for a treat."
Boss Huo fell silent as they entered the courtyard. A man seated inside stood and bowed to Fan Juan before motioning for Boss Huo to undergo a brief security check. Once cleared, Fan Juan led him into the house.
"Senior Leader, Boss Huo is here. I’ll prepare tea for you both."
Fan Juan left the two men to talk, quickly returning with tea before stepping out again.
Inside, the conversation unfolded.
"Your grandfather and I once fought side by side. I never imagined his grandson would achieve so much. He would be proud."
The sentimental approach was timeless.
Fan Juan waited outside for nearly an hour before the senior leader personally escorted Boss Huo out.
"Fan Juan, take Boss Huo for dinner. Make sure he’s well taken care of."
Fan Juan smiled in agreement. The fact that he called him "Boss Huo" so familiarly meant the deal was as good as sealed.
"Miss Fan, you’re young and accomplished. I thought being the head of an electronics factory was impressive enough, but you have even greater influence. We should collaborate more in the future. This meal should be my treat."
Boss Huo hadn’t expected such luck. The senior leader’s claim of knowing his grandfather—across generations and vast distances—was clearly Fan Juan’s doing.
"Next time. Tonight is to welcome you—it wouldn’t be right for you to pay. We’ll have plenty of opportunities to work together."
Fan Juan led him to another courtyard, this one livelier, filled with diners.
"Here, we don’t order—the chef decides. Their tea and pastries are exceptional, unlike anywhere else."
She explained how, with the economy growing, people were indulging more in fine dining.
"Just the two of us? I was hoping to meet your husband this time."
"His work is… sensitive."
Fan Juan smiled lightly.
Before the bidding conference, there were, of course, business banquets.
"Long time no see, Miss Fan. I came specifically for you. May I have the honor of the opening dance?"
Girard, dressed in a sharp suit, extended his hand.
"I didn’t expect you here. Welcome to my homeland, Girard."
"Years apart, and you’re just as beautiful."
"Flattery won’t get you everything. Though you do look more distinguished now."
After the dance, Girard spoke again.
"I noticed you know everyone here. Introduce me? Your country’s bidding requirements are baffling—we could handle the entire project, yet there’s this odd stipulation."
"Well…"
Fan Juan hesitated.
"We’ve been friends, classmates, and partners for years."
Girard was determined to win this bid. His family’s succession battle was fierce, and this project was his chance to prove himself—especially with rival families also competing.
"If I parade you around, it’ll draw too much attention. Do you have a specific company in mind? I can brief you, and if I know them, I’ll introduce you."
Girard grinned.
"Then give me the highlights."
Boss Huo’s gaze flickered toward Fan Juan and Girard. His target was clear now.
Fan Juan summarized the key attendees, subtly probing Girard’s company details.
"So your firm developed this technology? Your family’s business has always been impressive. Had I known you were coming, I’d have greeted you at the airport."
"I wanted to surprise you—planned to visit after wrapping things up. But here you are! I thought you were in electronics. Your company must be thriving."
Girard wasn’t naive.
"I’m here by connection. Even if I don’t land a project, the networking is invaluable."
The banquet ended without Girard naming his preferred partner. He tried to escort Fan Juan to dinner but was called away.
Soon after, Boss Huo’s car pulled up.
"Let me drive you."
Fan Juan accepted without hesitation.
"That foreigner—he’s our target?"
Boss Huo asked.
"Girard. His family holds significant influence, though their dealings aren’t entirely clean. They have the technology we need. He’s a gentleman, but profit-driven."
Fan Juan briefed him on Girard’s background.
