At this moment, Lu Kun transformed into the image of a kind and benevolent elder, with no trace of his earlier arrogance and domineering attitude.

“President Lu, it’s truly a pleasure to meet you in person,” Chen Ze said as he extended his hand for a handshake. “My father often spoke of you.”

“Oh, not at all. Now that I’ve met you, I feel my own son doesn’t measure up. Unlike you, who’ve achieved so much at such a young age—truly impressive. The younger generation is to be admired,” Lu Kun replied, effortlessly delivering his compliments.

“President Lu, you’re too kind. I’ll be counting on everyone’s support in the future,” Chen Ze responded with calm composure. He then turned his gaze to the young man beside Lu Kun. “And this is?”

“My son, Lu Ming. I hope President Chen can guide him in the future,” Lu Kun said by way of introduction.

The two exchanged more pleasantries before Lu Kun finally broached the main topic. “I’ve heard the Chen family is considering venturing into the liquor production industry. Have you identified a suitable manufacturer yet?”

Hearing this, Chen Ze immediately realized that this old fox was fishing for some benefits in the deal. He chuckled and replied casually, “As long as it’s profitable, the Chen family is interested, no matter the industry. But, of course, any move depends on market conditions. Right now, we’re still observing and evaluating whether to enter the liquor industry.”

His words were watertight. Smiling, Chen Ze asked, “But this is all internal information within the Chen family. I wonder, President Lu, where did you hear about it?”

“I merely picked it up as hearsay and thought I’d ask since I ran into you,” Lu Kun answered, his expression unchanging.

“I see,” Chen Ze said thoughtfully before responding in a cheerful tone. “President Lu, I won’t hide it from you. Our Chen family has already placed a significant order with the Wang Group this time. So, unfortunately, this business opportunity won’t involve the Lu family.”

“But…” Chen Ze trailed off, leaving his words hanging.

The moment Lu Kun heard this, he sensed an opportunity and quickly responded, “President Chen, feel free to speak your mind.”

“I heard that the Lu family owns quite a number of vineyards, and nearly 40% of the grapes are exclusively supplied to the Wang Group,” Chen Ze said.

“That’s true. What exactly are you suggesting?” Lu Kun immediately grasped the key point and asked directly.

“It’s simple. I wanted to ask if President Lu has considered expanding production and starting your own brand,” Chen Ze replied casually, as though he were merely asking, “Have you had lunch yet?”

Hearing this, Lu Kun’s thoughts began to race. He was naturally competitive, and for years, the Wang family had overshadowed him. Although he harbored ambitions, the Lu family’s resources were not on par with the Wang Group’s. While Lu’s wine quality was reliable, they lacked the reputation and history in the winemaking industry that the Wang family enjoyed, leaving the Lu family perpetually in second place.

“I have great faith in the future of the Lu family business and would like to invest. The only question is whether you’re ready to take on my capital,” Chen Ze said, his tone enticing, leading Lu Kun to jump at the bait without hesitation.

“Of course! As long as President Chen believes in us, I’m confident that the Lu family will soon surpass the Wang family and become the largest winemaking dynasty in Xinyun City. Besides, our wine has always been on par with theirs in terms of quality. Given a bit more time, I’m certain we can surpass the Wang family in both flavor and quality,” Lu Kun declared with conviction.

“It seems President Lu has great confidence in himself,” Chen Ze remarked with a subtle smile.