Chapter 76 Plucking Chestnuts from the Fire

t he would say next.Regardless of whether it was true or not, this event exceeded everyone's understanding, and no one mentioned it again from then on. Even words like QQ and computer games were avoid...Chapter 76: Plucking Chestnuts from the Fire

No matter how unwilling Su Can was, Tang Wu's family inviting a vice mayor of Yu City to dinner put him at a disadvantage in terms of momentum. The situation became increasingly complicated; what surprised Su Can most was that this girl actually managed to get her family involved, which showcased the influence and power of Tang Wu's parents.

This was a classic counterattack move often depicted in realistic political articles. By selling back the favor that was about to be bought through an intermediary transaction, Mrs. Mu demonstrated practicality and revealed her ability to manipulate personnel at or above the deputy department level.

Of course, this wasn't absolute; there were still many variables involved. Sun Changjie's promotion from vice mayor to executive vice mayor—or even further—wasn't a foregone conclusion, but Tang Family had already shown their influence in this matter.

If it truly took the position of an executive vice mayor to make Yu City's Yi Family cease hostilities, it seemed more complicated than initially imagined. Now Su Can regretted things; he hadn't anticipated that his conflict with Wang QiQi and others would become a focal point for powerful behind-the-scenes forces, leading to such a result.

This was the downside of reincarnation—adjusting to an existence where foresight and advantage no longer apply. Since changing his fate, he found it even harder to predict future outcomes; he didn't know how actions taken now would evolve in the future.

Like rivers flowing into lakes or oceans, some spreading widely, others forming small lakes, or drying up completely—Su Can's life was like these waters, uncertain of where they might converge: the Yarlung Tsangpo River or Qinhuai River; Yalong Bay or the Pacific Ocean—or even dying in an unknown grassland.

The most critical question was who he was Though he had Dunhuang Mall and Shushan (based in Southwest Chengdu) becoming China's leading stationery company, as well as FaceBook and Song Ke’s upcoming Umami, his commercial strategies hadn't yet formed a robust industrial force. Thus, he couldn't be called an entrepreneur but merely a businessman.

He was far from being able to influence the local economy or become a "folk secretary." Without official backing, a businessman could live in too many ways that aren't humanly satisfactory.

The greatest reliance was on Wang Bo. Their relationship wasn't just friendship but complementary and mutually supportive. The prospects of Wang Bo's career directly related to their family's future.

Most importantly, Su Can realized he lacked a lot: the larger his business ventures grew, the more he needed knowledge, talent, and control over situations—pressures that overwhelmed someone who was once an insignificant figure in the previous life.

Su Can dropped Tang Wu off at home before returning himself. His mother, Zeng Ke, was watching TV, a drama called "Burning Years." The living room had only one dim lamp on; shadows from two potted plants by the balcony stretched across the floor.

"Where's Dad I saw lights in the main office building when I came back. Is he still in a meeting" Su Can asked after changing his shoes.

"Your father doesn't know how late it'll be tonight; he just called and said for us to sleep first without waiting for him." Zeng Ke nodded, then complained, "I told him several times not to hold this position anymore. People talk behind his back anyway, and it's no easy job. Why does he still go to meetings so late For the past few days, sometimes after lunch, he just drops his bowl and sleeps; he looks exhausted."

"Dad has a responsibility," Su Can said, "he needs to take care of many aspects, with many people relying on him." He didn't know how to explain this to Zeng Ke; there were so many things he wanted to say but couldn't articulate.

"I asked your father—now if it's a big battle for victory, getting tired is worth it. Many people have been asking me recently about when the company situation will stabilize. The provincial governor Guo Xiaozhong is pushing for state-owned enterprise shareholding adjustments; it’s all political maneuvering, very complex. You know how many people are eyeing your father's position."

Su Can chuckled, "Oh Mom, you even realize it's a political struggle.

Zeng Ke spoke seriously, "How do you talk to me Your mother has walked more paths and seen more of the world than you have eaten meals. Don't think that just because you started a company it's something great; before long you'll be pulling down the roof tiles but you still won't amount to much."

Su Can felt awkward and could only nod repeatedly, "Yes, yes." Then he went to the kitchen to warm his feet with hot water from the store and quickly washed his face before going to bed.

Next came a call from Wang Yue saying that she had booked a table at Tan's official residence restaurant for an invitation-only banquet. She insisted that Su Can, the boss of Dunhuang, must attend.

Su Can was somewhat puzzled. In general, he trusted Wang Yue’s judgment and over the years, Wang Yue had proven herself more outstanding in her position. Recently, feedback from foundation events and Hope Project activities had been very positive. A program called "Lun Jian" on a provincial TV station had invited Wang Yue to participate in April. Back then, she wore black pants with a white shirt and a black suit, presenting an image of the modern career woman that dazzled many people. At that time, the title “beautiful businesswoman” spread through the industry and media.

The TV station director had been quite playful when he approached Wang Yue then and said, "In China, more and more women are floating around nowadays. However, since ancient times, beautiful women often have tragic fates due to their superficiality without real talent or virtue. But Ms. Wang is different. You look like our most excellent hostess, and at such a young age you've become the Wu Zetian of Dunhuang this big mall. Miss Wang’s life must be perfect."

Wang Yue has maintained good media relations with the provincial TV station to keep Dunhuang's image positive; her relationship with that "very interesting" director is said to have been well-managed.

Therefore, Wang Yue usually handles matters very carefully. When it comes to business issues, she organizes people to deal with them. Why would she need Su Can to attend personally today

Su Can rarely interferes in her work and only gives necessary concern as the big boss. He leaves all these details to Wang Yue's shoulders while he pursues his desired lifestyle. For this, he feels guilty and plans to give Wang Yue one million yuan in personal dividends at year-end.

The restaurant where Wang Yue had booked a private room was behind "Official Residence Banquet Hall." Today she dressed more honestly yet dazzlingly; her KENZO Asian women's tartan skirt was short but perfectly showcased her black stockings and long legs, along with a pair of Ferragamo high heels. She looked very feminine, making people estimate her age to be at least 28, quite older than her actual 24.

When Su Can arrived, two men were already in the room. Soon another joined them—three men in total. Two were around thirty while the last was about forty. The first two were an associate director of the provincial government office and a secretary to a major figure at the provincial committee; the third was the head of the provincial economic TV station.

The trio felt somewhat shaken upon entering this renowned place in Rongcheng, known for its official residence cuisine. Then seeing Su Can's young age made them even more bewildered.

Wang Yue took Su Can’s hand and introduced him with a grin, "Ladies and gentlemen, let me introduce our boss of Dunhuang, Su Can. The Young Master Su."

Su Can glanced at Wang Yue, fully grasping the implications in her words. By calling him "Young Master," she was setting up an image that would intrigue them.

Unbelievable, unbelievable, still unbelieving; they were all astonished by Su Can. However, these men weren't simple and soon calmed down to shake hands seriously with Su Can in turn. The title of “Young Master” Wang Yue bestowed upon him had piqued their interest. They guessed his background—controlling Dunhuang at such a young age must mean he either came from great wealth or high status.

"I was already surprised by how young Ms. Wang is and yet holds this position, but today I've seen something even more surprising. It seems that both Mr. Su and Miss Wang are part of the youth force," the associate director smiled.

"Could you call me by another name, Director Song Either Ms. Wang or Xiao Wang would be fine." Wang Yue gave him a glare for extending certain titles in a prolonged manner.

The man chuckled and said, "This lady is not that one; such modern beauties like Ms. Wang certainly deserve to be called noble ladies."

"Annoying." Wang Yue smiled in a somewhat alluring manner.

"Life has three blessings: high status, smooth career advancement, and the smile of a beautiful woman. To win such a smile is indeed one of my greatest joys." This Director Li seems to have played a lot of political games within the office hall.

The group laughed together; the other two also did not lag behind, taking advantage of the interval between dishes being served to tease Wang Yue as well. Wang Yue's laughter was like ringing bells, clearly showing that all three were extremely excited. She wore a tight-fitting dress and black stockings, her graceful demeanor enough to trigger some latent instinct in any man she wanted to seduce.

Su Can half-closed his eyes, watching the people around the table as well as Wang Yue, who was markedly different from the businesswoman he had seen before. This Wang Yue, who flirted gracefully among men with suggestive stories.

A side of Wang Yue that he had never seen before.

However, those three in front of him were still somewhat disoriented and did not dare to speak too boldly in front of Su Can about Wang Yue. Unsure of Su Can's background or the nature of his relationship with Wang Yue—whether she was someone he could give clothes to or a close female friend—they would put on completely different masks.

"President Su created Dunhuang and then handed over management to such a beautiful lady; you must be very comfortable. This is reminiscent of the style of Li Xunhuan, isn't it So what new project is President Su working on" After drinking for a while, the director-general of JSTV took a probing shot.

"I don’t deserve to be called President; just call me Xiao Su," said Su Can in an ordinary tone.

Wang Yue glanced at him and knew that Su Can was expressing his dissatisfaction. She smiled and said, "Our President Su is a very busy person, not only managing the business but also furthering studies at university. He’s definitely no Li Xunhuan; at least he's like Lu Xiaofeng, always dealing with troublesome matters. Last time, there were some minor incidents involving the son of Secretary Wang."

"The son of Secretary Wang" The group exchanged glances.

The man who served as a secretary to a provincial leader clearly knew something and said, "Is it Wang Bo, the Secretary Wang’s son"

Wang Yue nodded with a slight smile. Only then did everyone re-examine Su Can and realize who he was.

"As I thought... Young Master Su has an extraordinary background indeed, truly having some connections. I know Secretary Wang well; we’ve drunk together, and he’s someone bold and decisive, a leader with courage! If young master you are like this, give me a few days to treat everyone to dinner, your honor, the son of Secretary Wang, please do come."

The avalanche triggered by the incident at West Ridge Snow Mountain was not unheard of, but who would believe that it could be so intense between the sons and daughters of officials This was an inevitable result of accumulated conflicts behind the scenes. It was a contest of political forces.

Today’s meal, since they had invited Su Can to join them, indicated that there must be some way they can use him. A director-general from the office hall, a secretary to a provincial leader, and a television station director—all these people could involve extensive connections both high up and down the chain of command. The office and secretaries directly interacted with leaders and handled their affairs; TV directors often received calls from provincial-level leaders about news matters. This was bringing in key nodes.

Was this not the moment to take sides

Hearing these words, they clearly meant establishing connections; Wang Yue showed a pleased expression, as she realized that the upper lineages were finally connected. She knew of her family’s conflict with the Yi family and could analyze its underlying significance. If Secretary Wang saw no way out, he might sacrifice Su Can to seek compromise. Without political capital, Su Can would be crushed.

Wang Yue felt a lingering fear as if the sky was about to collapse, so she quickly used her resources to help Su Cen build up political capital. Who knew that after Wang Bo's boat sank, they might still find another path for themselves instead of being forever banned from advancement Now that they had a breakthrough, their joy showed on their faces.

But at this moment, Su Cen spoke, "Mr. Wang is probably too busy to deal with it recently, so we'll see what happens later." Tang Xiaowu had already mobilized her family connections, and now Wang Yue was using her network of contacts for him. What kind of luck did he have

The director of the office cleared his throat and nodded, "Alright then. If General Manager Su decides on a time, just give me a call when you do; I'll be waiting at your convenience." He reached out to touch Wang Yue's delicate hand back and smiled warmly, "After all, I've been friends with this beautiful lady for a long time."

Wang Yue still smiled seductively. Using an elegant sideways movement, she withdrew her hand as if nothing had happened. She stared at Su Cen with eyes like autumn waves; the director's overstepping seemed trivial compared to Su Cen's answer.

The look in her eyes was filled with confusion. Several times she wanted to speak but didn't say anything. During this meal, everyone had their own thoughts and eventually left. Between Su Cen and Wang Yue, there wasn't much conversation. She felt a knot in her heart because she couldn’t understand why Su Cen refused to establish connections with others.

Wang Yue finally gathered the courage to ask, "Why aren't you happy Is it me today"

Su Cen sighed and said, "You don't need to do this."

Wang Yue looked at Su Cen with a hurt expression. Her eyes were blurry as she softly said, "Why... Am I making you look down on me today" Then she coldly laughed, "Do you think that I am shameless and have been in bed with many men"

She stared at Su Cen intently; her long eyelashes kept trembling slightly. "In your eyes, I'm no longer the innocent girl who used to work for your family's store, happy to invite you to eat ice cream with my first paycheck..."

The tears trickled down her meticulously groomed face, but she stubbornly raised her head and stared directly at Su Cen. "I am letting you down; do you like my body You are a man, so aren't you also interested in me Then why not take action now We can go get a room together! It's only natural for me to serve men like you. Don’t tell me that lifting me up to this point was merely because of your ridiculous promise! Do you want to eat me How much longer do you intend to wait"

Su Cen felt like he was losing it and scratched his head as he sat on the floor. He held back the urge to slap Wang Yue, but her emotions steadied when she saw his strange actions.

Su Cen stood up and reached out towards Wang Yue; she closed her eyes and trembled slightly, only to feel that Su Cen didn't do anything indecent on her body but gently patted her back instead. Opening her eyes, she saw the look of helplessness on Su Cen's face as he wiped away her tears with his hand. "Sis Wang Yue, it feels like I've gone back a few years ago when you used to cry in this way; nothing seems to have changed."

Wang Yue was just a woman who had to shoulder the audaciousness of Dunhuang and deal with all kinds of people. Her social status wasn’t low, but she held some real power. She had to handle these people properly. Su Cen used to think that Dunhuang's successful rise was due to its well-planned route, but now he realized Wang Yue's contribution couldn't be underestimated.

In the past, he only looked forward with ambition; he hadn’t realized how much effort Wang Yue had put in behind the scenes for every major decision. She also had to deal carefully with all these people who desired her beauty and body.

"I just said that today's invitation was completely unnecessary because if they could really help, their efforts would be useless in the face of the storm brewing behind the scenes."

The Yi family’s connection with Guo Clan and Zhou Clan was a major power struggle. At this stage, the real outcome and control were not in Su Cen's hands nor among those Wang Yue wanted to bring together today.

It wasn't Su Cen's level or territory yet; he was just a point of conflict between both sides. If one didn’t pay attention, it could mean total destruction or an unexpected leap forward; the risks were extremely high, akin to snatching chestnuts from the fire.ing, he immediately stood up from the coffee table. Another legal advisor, Chris Kelly, sat beside Kate on the sofa, smiling without speaking while holding stacks of legal documents."So you're Su, Fac...