A Divine Farmer

Chapter 145 - You Are Not a Villain

Before anyone could inquire about his feelings, inquiries for the price flooded in, and if the item failed to sell well after its release, it would be truly baffling.

Presently, this item rested in Zhang Xiaoloong's possession, evoking an unprecedented pressure in Xu Shaoning.

Initially dismissing him upon their first encounter, this individual had unexpectedly disrupted Xu Shaoning's plans and even won the affection of the woman he admired.

Yet, from that moment onward, Xu Shaoning recognized Zhang Xiaoloong's peculiar nature. Despite possessing genuine jade, he could mold it into plasticine effortlessly.

Although this individual maintained a low profile, within a few short months, he amassed considerable wealth. Who dared claim he lacked capability? Xu Shaoning certainly did not.

Individuals of this caliber posed a nightmare for established practitioners in any industry they entered. Now, with his focus on Qingyang's beverage market, how could Xu Shaoning not feel the pressure?

Initially intending to leverage this opportunity to cultivate a relationship with Lee Donghua, Xu Shaoning hoped to utilize the latter's influence to revitalize Xu Qiangloong Group's Qingyang business.

However, with Zhang Xiaoloong's sudden entry into the scene, and Lee Donghua's evident fondness for him, Xu Shaoning easily discerned the implications.

Initially indifferent when Lee Donghua proposed a tasting session, Xu Shaoning's perspective shifted upon sampling the product, realizing Lee Donghua's intentions.

Oblivious to the nearby curses, Zhang Xiaoloong responded graciously to questions, revealing that Yalong brand drinks were limited edition, with Donghua Group exclusively handling distribution upon their public release.

Disappointment permeated the crowd upon hearing the news.

Yet, upon reflection, the decision made sense; the introduction of such a beverage would undoubtedly spark fierce competition.

Many pondered the taste difference between Lee Donghua's acquired dealership and the sampled drink.

Answers to these inquiries could only emerge post-product launch.

Despite recognizing the marketing ploy, attendees felt their trip was worthwhile after sampling the unique drinks.

As the event wound down, most departed, leaving Zhang Xiaoloong and Chen Yaru engaged in conversation with the elder from the Lee family, discussing the Four Appearances Divine Orchid and the drinks.

Initially intending one query, Zhang Xiaoloong found himself answering two.

Vaguely, Zhang Xiaoloong referenced ancient texts, struggling to recall specific sources.

Promising to deliver a bucket of the first batch of drinks in two days, Zhang Xiaoloong made a jest about the elder shedding his clothes.

Their departure was halted by a group of individuals before they could leave far.

With Zhang Xiaoloong at her side, Chen Yaru remained composed. Upon identifying the leader, she felt a twinge of surprise.

“Is there a specific reason Young Master Xu seeks me out?” Zhang Xiaoloong inquired, assessing the man before him, surrounded by his cohorts. It was improbable that this encounter bore no significance.

“Zhang Xiaoloong, your reputation precedes you as a remarkable individual,” praised Xu Shaoning. “Visionaries like yourself prioritize long-term gains over immediate gratification. Without further ado, let me get straight to the point. Our Qiangloong Group specializes in the beverage industry. I've taken a liking to your recent concoction. If you're willing, we'd like to extend an invitation for you to join us. Are you intrigued?”

“I'm sorry, but I'm not interested,” Zhang Xiaoloong promptly declined, without deliberation.

Xu Shaoning frowned slightly. “There's no rush to decide. Have you fully grasped what you're turning down?”

“You declined a snare,” sneered Chen Yaru. “Young Master Xu, this ploy is beneath you. Offering Xiaoloong a salary and dividends in exchange for his beverage recipe and expertise? Don't insult our intelligence.”

“Yaru, I understand your misgivings about me. Admittedly, I've sought your forgiveness before. I falsely claimed we were a couple to drive a wedge between you and Zhang Xiaoloong. It was a crude tactic, and for that, I apologize. But please, don't judge my entire character based on that mistake,” Xu Shaoning's tone betrayed a hint of anguish. “Haven't I made any positive impression on you? Am I just a nobody to you?”

“Young Master Xu, you're too modest. You're not insignificant,” Chen Yaru replied, pausing briefly. “But compared to genuine integrity, your false fa?ade is utterly repugnant.”

Xu Shaoning's visage twitched, on the brink of eruption, yet he restrained himself. He redirected his focus towards Zhang Xiaoloong, seeking an answer from within.

“I regret to inform you, Young Master Xu, I might not be the luminary you perceive me to be,” Zhang Xiaoloong's lips quivered slightly. “While I do consider future prospects, I cannot disregard the present or past. Moreover, I'm skeptical about the Qiangloong Group's intentions. Hence, cooperation seems implausible.”

“Are you afraid that joining the Qiangloong Group would mean losing to me, both personally and professionally?” Xu Shaoning taunted.

Zhang Xiaoloong burst into laughter. Chen Yaru, standing beside him, leaned closer, as if in silent solidarity, wishing she could merge with him entirely.

“Should I be frightened?” Zhang Xiaoloong retorted, paying no heed to the provocation, his arm securely around Yaru's waist.

Watching the departing car, Xu Shaoning clenched his fists tightly.

Zhang Xiaoloong's refusal stemmed partly from rational considerations, but largely from his bond with Chen Yaru.

Zhang Xiaoloong's rejection didn't come as a complete surprise, but Chen Yaru's conduct defied Xu Shaoning's expectations.

Once aloof and distant, she now seemed wholly devoted to Zhang Xiaoloong. Had he been replaced?

“Young Master Xu, why didn't you order them to take action?” Wang Changyu interjected with regret.

“Do you think he can escape?” Xu Shaoning retrieved his phone with a trace of malice.