"Five hundred stores is too few. Be bolder, double it."
"Won’t that be too aggressive?"
"Our quality and capital are both solid. What’s wrong with being a little aggressive?"
"Let’s stick to your plan for now. We can adjust the specific pace based on the results," Chen Jingxian said. "We might even be able to open more, who knows."
"Makes sense. But right now, we need to keep a close eye on Yong’an. With Mu Xing and Li Yuan constantly pressuring them, their room to survive has shrunk. They could go bankrupt at any moment."
"Several of their production lines have already shut down. I heard they’re also a month behind on paying their employees’ wages," Chen Jingxian said.
"But I don’t think a lowball buyout is realistic. It’s a matter of pride for them; they’d rather lose it all than sell Yong’an to us."
"Then it all depends on whether they can find another buyer," Lin Jiang said.
"Even if someone does acquire them, they’ll have to retool the production lines, which is another big investment. We’ll just play the waiting game with Yong’an. No need to rush."
Chen Jingxian nodded, agreeing with Lin Jiang’s assessment.
"The current priority is Berkeley. I heard from our people that Huipin City opened today and drew a big crowd. We’ve been affected too."
"They went to great lengths, investing a lot of manpower and resources. We should at least let them have their moment for a few days. But whether they can sustain it is a test of their own ability."
"Mm," Chen Jingxian nodded, looking at Lin Jiang.
"Tomorrow is New Year’s Day. What are your plans? Are you going home?"
"Yeah, leaving tomorrow morning."
"Good thing I already prepared," Chen Jingxian said.
"Come over to my place for dinner tonight. I bought some clothes for your mom; you can take them back with you tomorrow."
"I have other plans tonight, so I can’t make it to your place."
Qin Yangyang had called ahead; he was going to the Qin Family’s for dinner tonight, so the ’after-sales service’ would fall to her.
"Then just come get the clothes."
"Okay."
By the time they returned to Zhonghai, it was already after four in the afternoon. Lin Jiang dropped Chen Jingxian off at her home.
"Take a look at the style and color. I think your mom will like it."
The outfit Chen Jingxian bought was in the style of a traditional Tang suit but with many modern elements, making it perfectly fine for everyday wear.
"As long as it’s from you, she’ll definitely love it."
"You’re just good with sweet talk."
Chen Jingxian tucked a stray hair behind her ear and looked at Lin Jiang. "How long are you planning to stay home this time?"
"Just two or three days."
"Why not stay a few more days?"
"She’ll get annoyed if I stay too long. The last time I went back, she started chewing me out by the third day."
HAHAHA...
Chen Jingxian laughed, her ample chest bouncing with the motion.
"That’s mainly because you don’t listen and always make your mom mad. I bet you’re going back empty-handed again this time, without even a change of clothes."
"You guessed it."
"Wait here. I’ll go pack some things for you."
Chen Jingxian had already bought clothes for Lin Jiang in advance, including fresh underwear. She had thought of every little detail with great care.
Chen Jingxian moved quickly. In less than twenty minutes, she had packed everything he needed.
After all, he was only going for two or three days, so he didn’t need much. A single duffel bag was enough.
"I’m heading out."
Carrying the bag, Lin Jiang gave Chen Jingxian a peck on the cheek and went to the door to put on his shoes.
"Wait! I forgot to give you something."
"What is it?"
Chen Jingxian turned and went into the kitchen. She opened the refrigerator and took out two small jars.
"Goji berries? Oyster extract tablets?"
Seeing what Chen Jingxian handed him, Lin Jiang shot her a look.
"What did you buy this stuff for me for?"
"To supplement your health! You work so hard, you need to replenish your body."
"You of all people don’t know my prowess? Do you have a death wish?"
"Men and women are different. Women expend physical energy, but men expend their essence. You’re young now, but just wait a few years. That’s why you need to start supplementing appropriately now."
Chen Jingxian advised him like a virtuous wife:
"Take these for now. I’ve been learning recipes for nourishing foods. Once I’ve mastered them, you won’t need to take this stuff anymore."
Lin Jiang placed the two small jars on the shoe cabinet beside them and said:
"I don’t think you have a clear understanding of my prowess."
"How could I not..." Chen Jingxian said shyly.
She had been tormented half to death these past few days. It had to be said, youth was truly a powerful asset.
"No, you don’t."
As he spoke, Lin Jiang pushed Chen Jingxian down.
At first, Chen Jingxian feigned resistance, but she soon began to cooperate fully.
Halfway through, Chen Jingxian couldn’t take it anymore. Her legs were so weak she couldn’t stand.
By the time the battle was over, she couldn’t even keep her eyes open.
Lin Jiang leaned close to Chen Jingxian’s ear and said with a grin:
"So, do you still think I need supplements?"
"You villain. Go take care of your business."
"Get some rest. I’m leaving."
"Mm."
With the battle concluded, Lin Jiang grabbed his bag and left Chen Jingxian’s home.
RING RING RING—
On his way, Lin Jiang received a call from Qin Yangyang.
"Are you done with your work? Will you be able to come over tonight?"
Qin Yangyang knew about Lin Jiang’s schedule for the day.
City officials were coming for an inspection, and any related arrangements were out of Lin Jiang’s hands.
"I’m on my way now. Should be there in about ten minutes. Get yourself all cleaned up and wait for me at home."

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