Chen Jianan’s anger was palpable, boiling over as he stormed into the sales office, demanding to speak with the manager. With a fierce intensity in his voice, he wasted no time in voicing his frustrations, not hesitating to express his displeasure. He also took out his wallet and proudly displayed a beautiful photo of Qiao Wen cut out of the newspaper to the staff.

“Did you see that? My brother, a high-profile manager, has been in the newspaper with Li Xing Chen. You should consider yourself fortunate that we chose to purchase your shitty house, without judgment. Yet, here, you dog-eyed people have the audacity to treat us with disdain!” 

Qiao Wen “…”

Since when did this guy cut his photo and put it in his wallet? 

While it wasn’t entirely surprising that Chen Jianan would resort to such tactics, the sight of a grown man putting another man’s photo in his wallet struck a peculiar chord within him.

Following Chen Jianan’s passionate outburst, the salesman found himself flooded with regret, his regret palpable from head to toe, repeatedly uttering apologies, realizing the grave misjudgment he had made in underestimating the two visitors. The salesman’s regret stemmed not from the fact that he mistook elegant and handsome young man’s status, but from his failure to perceive the true nature of the infuriated man before him.

The salesman didn’t know he was in trouble, until he saw Chen Jianan baring his teeth and pointing his claw, a sense of impending trouble washed over him. And just as he thought matters couldn’t worsen, a momentary shift in Chen Jianan’s posture inadvertently revealed a knife discreetly tucked beneath his shirt, sending a shiver down the salesman’s spine.

Which normal young man in a suit would carry a knife with him?

Not only the salesmen was taken aback by Chen Jianan’s unwavering demeanor, even the manager also acknowledged that this ancestor was not to be trifled with. Consequently, they chose to handle the situation diplomatically and endured his wrath calmly. In the end, they managed to appease the fire-breathing dragon with a generous discount, much to their relief. 

Qiao Wen, who had come prepared to haggle for a better price, found himself speechless when faced with the drastically reduced offer after Chen Jianaan’s assertiveness. 

He couldn’t help but acknowledge that sometimes it was more effective to be assertive and resolute rather than trying to reason with others in sealing a deal.

The two signed the contract readily without further delay, promptly settling the required funds and bringing their transaction to a close and left contently, amidst the staff farewell, who were a mix of sadness to blind to see this ancestor and joy at the successful sale.

After buying the house, the two of them still had more than one million yuan left. Qiao Wen had not yet planned how to invest the money to make more, prompting him to temporarily deposit the sum in the bank.

In all honesty, Qiao Wen had to acknowledge that being with Chen Jianan he really felt safe. The mere thought of wandering the streets alone with that significant amount of money in tow would have likely overwhelmed him with anxiety, possibly causing him to faint before reaching the bank.

In stark contrast, Chen Jianan appeared unfazed by the prospect of being targeted for robbery. It was evident that anyone foolish enough to daring to rob pretty boy south is equivalent to looking for death.

His ease and comfort also completely put Qiao Wen in a pleasant mood curving the corners of his mouth all the way.

Upon arriving at the bank, Qiao Wen had initially contemplated the idea of keeping two separate accounts to ensure financial clarity. However, Chen Jianan felt that it was unnecessary and insistent on handing over his money to keep together.

Qiao Wen said amusedly: “Brothers should still settle accounts clearly? How can we deal with the money in case we fall out in the future?”His voice laced with a tone of jest, he couldn’t help but tease Chen Jianan as he awaited a response.

Chen Jianan said nonchalantly, “Even if the sky falls, we won’t break up. Besides, if the sky really falls, I don’t want a penny and give it all to you. What’s the point of having more money, if we break up?”

Qiao Wen thought his words were a bit childish, but thinking that even if the sky really fell, he probably would not argue with him over money, and finally deposited the money together.

Then the two happily deciding to embark on a grand shopping spree together, made their way to the bustling mall with enthusiasm, ready to choose the New Year goods for their families. Chen Jianan carefully picked out new clothes for the elders, and stylish shoes for Haozi. 

Qiao Wen was aware that Grandma had a prestigious background from a wealthy family, so she probably had gold and silver jewelry in the past. However, the passage of time had dwindled her possessions, leaving her with a worthless silver bracelet on her hand, so he specially selected a very valuable gold bracelet for her. 

As they strolled through the shops, the brothers’ arms grew heavy with bags filled with brand-name goods, just like that after a generous shopping the rare handsome duo exited the mall with bags dangling in their hands.

The temperament was just like a nouveau riche individual who basked in newfound wealth and opulence.

“Xiao Qiao, what do you want to eat? Now that we are so rich, we don’t have to save money anymore. If we want to eat, we’ll dine at the most exquisite and expensive restaurant in town.” Chen Jianan exclaimed enthusiastically, his eyes twinkling with excitement.

Seeing his typical nouveau riche mentality, Qiao Wen said with a smile: “How can we be considered rich? We are still far from those billionaires in the city!” 

Surprised by Qiao Wen’s reply, Chen Jianan’s eyes widened in disbelief, and he retorted: “Aren’t we wealthy now? After all, you said it yourself that one should not be too greedy.”

Qiao Wen said: “If an opportunity presents itself, seizing it isn’t considered greed.”

Chen Jianan: “You don’t really want to be a billionaire, do you?”

So what if I do? There are plenty of opportunities in this era, and since I’ve come once, I can’t live in mediocrity.

A familiar voice resonating from nearby interrupted their conversation. Turning towards the source of the sound, they were taken aback to see Zhou Renjun, who they hadn’t seen for a long time, grabbing a man by the collar and yelling at him angrily.

What caught their eyes next was even more surprising – Zhou Renjun had Qin Yunfei in his hand.

Zhou Renjun stood alone, his expression contorted in anger as he seized Qin Yunfei by the collar. Meanwhile, Qin Yunfei, flanked by two companions led by Scar, Scar immediately rushed forward to make a move, only to be stopped by Qin Yunfei raising his hand with a mere gesture.

“Sir Zhou, are you going to arrest me? Which law did I break?” Qin Yunfei remained composed amidst the chaos, he let Zhou Renjun grab himself, and spoke lightly.

It’s just that his masculine and indefensible face was a bit of evil in it. Although his tone was calm, Zhou Renjun felt it was a bit provocative. He put more force on his hands and said through gritted teeth, “You’ve done so many things. It’s not enough to arrest you a hundred times.”

Compared to his big fuss, Qin Yunfei was still unfazed and said lightly: “The crimes I committed were all in Kowloon Walled City, but Kowloon Walled City is not under your police jurisdiction. If you arrest and take me back, will your boss agree?”

Zhou Renjun’s disdain was evident as he snorted coldly and released his grip on Qin Yunfei, his finger pointing menacingly: “Don’t worry, sooner or later the police will enter the Kowloon Walled City, and I will be the first to catch you.” 

Qin Yunfei hooked the corners of his mouth and spread his hands, “Then I will welcome Sir Zhou in advance.” Saying that, he spun his head to Chen Jianan and Qiao Wen not far away. With a light chuckle, he playfully pointed towards them,  “But I heard that your old friend, Handsome Nan, has been quite active outside the Walled City recently. I don’t know if he has done anything wrong. It’s better for you to check it carefully, but be careful not to bend the law for personal gain.” 

Zhou Renjun turned around and saw Qiao Wen and Chen Jianan carrying large and small bags, and was overjoyed. With one final glare, he ignored him and ran over. 

Qin Yunfei, positioned steadfastly in the same location, his piercing gaze swept over in that direction, or to be exact on Qiao Wen, while his face adorned with an enigmatic smirk that hovered on his lips. With a subtle nod to Scar by his side, he muttered something indiscernible before he turned around and left with his cane.

Drawing his attention away from the departing figure of Qin Yunfei, Qiao Wen redirected his focus towards the approaching silhouette of Zhou Renjun, who was briskly making his way over.

Despite having a prior acquaintance with Zhou Renjun through the pages of the original book, the interactions between the two individuals had been limited to just three brief encounters, so it couldn’t be considered familiar. Contrast to Chen Jianan who went through hardship with Zhou Renjun and narrowly escaping the death. Let alone that, following escaping, Chen Jianan hid in his house for several days. Seeing each other day and night would definitely give rise to an extraordinary friendship.

Indeed, Zhou Renjun’s attention was on Chen Jianan. After briefly greeting the two, he let out a hearty laugh before playfully slapping Chen Jianan on the shoulder, his gaze raking over him appraisingly: “Anan, it’s only been a few months since we last met. Have you become more successful?” 

Chen Jianan said dismissively: “What can I do? It’s Xiao Qiao, he has become a manager.” As a proud older sibling keen on showcasing his younger brother’s achievements, Chen Jianan never missed an opportunity to laud Qiao Wen’s managerial status to those around him.

Qiao Wen, upon hearing this familiar refrain, merely smiled, having grown accustomed to his boastful ways over time.

“Really?” Only then has Zhou Renjun shifted his attention to Qiao Wen. Although he was a man with a normal orientation, he couldn’t help but sigh at Qiao Wen’s striking features, finding it surprising that he hadn’t fully appreciated his good looks before, unconsciously his gaze lingered a little longer, before he came back to his sense.

Feeling that being a manager at such a young age was a bit of an eye-opener for him, but the past encounter had also let him know that this seemingly soft and weak man was actually very opinionated. He expressed his admiration, “Congratulations, Awen.” 

Qiao Wen said with a smile, “Thank you. Has Sir Zhou received a promotion or salary increase recently?”

With a dismissive wave of his hand, Zhou Renjun replied: “I’m already satisfied to be able to transfer back to O Bureau. The salary we get as police officers is not even enough for me to buy cigarettes.” 

Qiao Wen laughed: “You are Young Master Zhou!”

Zhou Renjun simply shrugged off the title, glancing at the time on his wristwatch. “You haven’t eaten yet, right? It just so happens that we haven’t seen each other for so long. Let’s have a meal together. I also have something to say to Anan.” 

Qiao Wen and Chen Jianan were originally going to eat, so naturally there was no reason to refuse his invitation.

Zhou Renjun had quite the style of a rich young master, taking the two directly to a high-end Japanese restaurant. The moment the sliding door of their private dining room closed, the ambiance transformed into a small independent world.

Young Master Zhou, known for his direct manner, wasted no time and went straight to the point as soon as the food was served: “Anan, I’ve heard that you’re quite powerful recently. Everyone in Kowloon and New Territories knows your name, Handsome Nan. Let me tell you, your name has been included in our O-level key list of people to be monitored.” 

Chen Jianan said: “Sir Zhou, I didn’t kill anyone and set fires, and didn’t sell powder and smuggle. I was just collecting debts and fighting for territory with other gangs. I shouldn’t be targeted by you, right?”

Zhou Renjun said: “If it weren’t for knowing that you didn’t do these harmful things, I would be the first to arrest you. But you should also pay attention to it. Even if it’s a matter between your gangs, if someone dies outside the Walled City, it will be the police’s responsibility.”

“No, I won’t.” Chen Jianan waved his hand nonchalantly.

After a little pause Zhou Renjun continued, “But, I do need your help with something.”

“What is it? Just say it.”

Zhou Renjun said: “Recently we received an insider information that Luo Kun -the drug king of the Golden Triangle, might come to Hong Kong to carry out activities. We are afraid that a large amount of drugs will enter Hong Kong. We don’t know which bigwigs in Hong Kong are cooperating with him. Have you heard any news?”

Young Master Zhou was transferred back to O Bureau with great difficulty and was determined to make a big move. It was clear to him that the impending arrival of the notorious Drug King in Hong Kong would undoubtedly stir up various criminal factions. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, he saw it as a crucial moment to tackle the deep-rooted poisonous tumors in the city before he reconcile. 

In his mind, the upcoming operation to thwart the drug king’s activities was not just about law enforcement – it was a personal mission to cleanse the city of its criminal elements and make it safer for its citizens.

Chen Jianan, who had finally escaped the clutches of poverty and achieved financial prosperity alongside Qiao Wen, was eagerly anticipating a blissful New Year and swiftly settling into his new home. Unperturbed by the looming threat of the drug king, stating nonchalantly:  “I neither take drugs nor sell drugs, so how can I know about the drug king.”

Zhou Renjun was not disappointed to hear him say this, and only nodded: “Anyway, if you hear any news, let me know in time.”

Chen Jianan took a big bite of sushi rolls and said vaguely: “No problem.”

As for whether or not he have a heart in it was another matter.

Qiao Wen, cast a silent gaze towards Chen Jianan, and felt relieved when seeing him unfazed, showing indifference towards the potentially dangerous situation at hand. Recalling the harrowing events of the past, and Chen Jianan’s close call, Qiao Wen mental note to prevent him from getting entangled in any further perilous circumstances. The very mention of the name Drug King alone was sounded crazy, a title that exuded a sense of danger and it was not something that could be easily associated with. 

Despite these concerns, Qiao Wen couldn’t help but feel a growing admiration and respect for Zhou Renjun. Born into a privileged background and having the luxury of a comfortable life, Zhou Renjun lacked nothing, he could live the life happily with no worries, but he had chosen to join ‘o’ to fight against the underworld. His valiant spirit and unwavering resolve in the face of adversity were truly praiseworthy, Qiao Wen silently applauded and gave thumps up to him.