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Now, what they needed to do was uphold the integrity of this family. Despite how difficult it had become ever since Xu Deming’s affair surfaced, this matter seemed destined to never end. But they had no other choice…
After chatting with Xu Wanting for a while, Xu Shuying thought for a moment and headed towards the second floor. She entered the storage room, which was now covered in dust, showing signs of long neglect.
As she walked in and glanced around, memories flooded Xu Shuying’s mind of Xu Mo spending countless nights and days here years ago. This room bore witness to his perceived injustices and suffering.
Many times, he had curled up on the bed alone, like a dog licking his wounds, unable even to cry aloud.
Sitting desolately on a chair, Xu Shuying took out a family photo that had been cut open, feeling a sense of surreal nostalgia. How nice it would be if everything were like it was four years ago? How nice it would be if none of this had happened?
…
Lately, Xu Deming had been feeling a bit troubled.
His Elder brother Xu Bohan arrived in Xiahai City, bringing along his eldest nephew, Xu Ankang.
Xu Bohan was a prominent energy tycoon , holding a high status and known for his decisive and authoritative demeanor. He had investigated matters concerning Fengxiang Jewelry and the Xu family deeply.
Fond of wearing suits despite his beer belly and somewhat corpulent appearance, Xu Bohan was strict, detail-oriented, and highly ambitious. Over thirty years ago, he had been discontent with the management of Fengxiang Jewelry, believing that Xu Deming lacked the capability to lead effectively, which had harmed the company.
Thirty years later, events had proven Xu Bohan right: Fengxiang Jewelry was barely surviving, and Xu Deming had made little progress.
As one of the main enterprises of the family, Xu Bohan’s sole purpose in coming this time was clear: to have Xu Ankang take over Fengxiang Jewelry. Ideally, Xu Deming would relinquish control while retaining dividend shares, allowing Xu Ankang to oversee the company’s operations in the future.
He believed that under Xu Ankang’s management, Fengxiang Jewelry could regain its former glory.
Naturally, Xu Deming was reluctant to agree. Today, over dinner with Xu Bohan and Xu Ankang, negotiations were underway.
“Deverna is on the brink of collapse. The cancer issue is a grave offense, tarnishing not only its reputation but also our family’s name! I don’t recommend Deverna to continue,” Xu Bohan asserted.
“Wanting’s capabilities seem limited as well. She struggles to manage enterprises worth over billions,” he continued.
“I’ve assessed Junzhe’s abilities as well. Setting aside his background, his admission to Tsinghua is impressive, but still limited. Ankang graduated from MIT, giving him a significant advantage. Moreover, Ankang interned at our company and is well-equipped to manage billions in capital. Entrusting Fengxiang Jewelry to Ankang will better safeguard the family’s assets,” Xu Bohan argued.
“You can rest assured. We don’t want your shares or dividends; you’ll receive not one penny less. I’m doing this to assist you and to save Fengxiang Jewelry,” he concluded.
Xu Deming remained silent. He chose not to disclose anything about Xu Mo to Xu Bohan, as Xu Mo’s current situation was uncertain. For Xu Deming, Xu Mo was more like a trump card. Until the final moment arrived, he wouldn’t decide to bring up Xu Mo.
Recently, Xu Deming’s investment company had conducted extensive research on Pinduoduo, confirming its staggering market valuation. Presently, Pinduoduo was valued at least over 20 billion yuan.
This was Xu Mo’s second billion-dollar enterprise, achieved in a remarkably short period of just two to three years. Such accomplishments were not only a source of pride for Xu Deming but were also exceedingly rare, not just in China but possibly worldwide.
Therefore, Xu Deming felt proud and chose to keep Xu Mo’s achievements undisclosed to Xu Bohan for the time being.
Regarding the control struggle over Fengxiang Jewelry, Xu Deming had already made up his mind. Naturally, he was willing to give Xu Junzhe a try, but he was well aware that Xu Junzhe wasn’t his ideal candidate in the end.
“Now, competing with Xu Bohan is quite interesting,” Xu Deming thought.
“Has Ankang managed a billion-dollar enterprise?” Xu Deming asked.
Xu Bohan, stroking his teacup gently with an air of confidence, replied, “Before going to MIT, Ankang had already interned at a state-owned energy company, serving as the General Manager of Shuzhong Petroleum and the CEO of the subsidiary’s Liquefied Gas Company, achieving outstanding performance. His qualifications are already sufficient.”
“Firstly, if we consider performance, I believe Wanting is more suitable! She has more qualifications to operate Fengxiang Jewelry! She spent ten years, making Deverna from five billion to 10 billion, and already demonstrated her ability.
“Now, Deverna is in trouble, isn’t she?” Xu Bohan stared at Xu Deming.
“Deverna is indeed facing difficulties! But this is just a minor setback and doesn’t negate Wanting’s capabilities! I believe she is qualified to manage Fengxiang Jewelry,” Xu Deming asserted.
“Wanting is a woman and may already need to get married,” Xu Bohan frowned, reminding Xu Deming.
“So, I propose that Wanting and Junzhe work together, as siblings, to complement each other. This way, they may better manage Fengxiang Jewelry! Although Junzhe is young and had one failed venture, it doesn’t discount his abilities!” Xu Deming suggested.
Glancing at the silent Xu Ankang, Xu Deming continued, “I believe if these two cooperate, they can lead Fengxiang Jewelry to soar once again!”
“I recently heard something disturbing—apparently, the Xie family has informed us that they intend to transfer control of Fengxiang Jewelry to Junzhe. You know, Junzhe’s background is a major issue!” Xu Bohan expressed his dissatisfaction.
“I don’t see it as an issue! We are family! Letting Wanting and Junzhe work together can achieve seamless integration!” Xu Deming responded.
“If you insist, we’ll resort to our old ways to resolve this! I hope they truly prove to be outstanding!” Xu Bohan remained displeased.
“Then let’s resort to our old ways! A few words won’t determine the abilities of these youngsters! Perhaps they are even more capable than we imagine!” Xu Deming remarked.
Xu Bohan fell silent, casting a glance at Xu Ankang, who calmly took a sip of tea and nodded lightly.
“By the way, what’s going on with Lu Xiangru?” Xu Bohan suddenly asked again.
Xu Deming’s expression stiffened.
“Our Parents already know about this. The Xie family personally called to complain about it and demanded that we handle it properly. I came this time to resolve this matter too. Our Xu family needs to give the Xie family an explanation!” Xu Bohan stared seriously at Xu Deming.
Upon hearing this, Xu Deming also felt a headache coming on. He responded, “That’s the situation. There’s nothing more to say. Right now, I need to ensure the safety of her and her daughter.”
“Where do you place the Xie family in all this?” Xu Bohan frowned.
“Let’s see what the Xie family has to say. The fact remains despite whatever fuss they might make,” Xu Deming replied with a sense of resignation.
“You must understand, if the Xie family really pursues this seriously, we’ll definitely pay a heavy price! This price includes, but is not limited to, Fengxiang Jewelry! I’ve considered this matter, which is why I wanted you to transfer Fengxiang Jewelry to Ankang. Otherwise, Fengxiang Jewelry will sooner or later fall into the hands of the Xie family!”
“It won’t fall into anyone’s hands! I’ve said it, only Wanting, Junzhe, or…”
“Anyone else?” Xu Bohan asked.
“Xu Mo!” Xu Deming spoke up. “My son! My own flesh and blood!”