Chapter 150 Ramblings (Part 8)

Zou Xun first booked the quietest, sunniest spot on the same floor.

Zou Xunjing sat next to him.

The young master was wearing a light gray suit today, which was very formal. According to Lan Zhe, Zou Xunjing studied accounting and economics, and he would likely join the family company after graduation.

Zou Xunxian's intention in bringing him here was, ostensibly, to learn.

From the first time Pei Wu met Zou Xunjing until today, in just a few meetings, she never saw the slightest gloom on his face. His pupils were exceptionally clear and calm, not only because he was well protected by his family, but also because his starting point was too high, and he was immune to the harsh winds of society.

Upon seeing Lan Zhe, a fleeting glint of light appeared in his beautiful, light-colored pupils.

While pouring tea, Zou Xun said casually, "My brother is a nuisance, but this place is known for its tranquil environment. I think you'll like it."

Pei Wu: "Mm."

Zou Xunxian looked at Zou Xunjing and said, "I noticed you didn't eat much at noon, how about some dessert?"

Zou Xunjing: "I'm fine, brother. Let's talk business first."

Pei Wu did not miss the fleeting mockery in Lan Zhe's eyes.

Perhaps Zou Xunxian didn't mean anything by it and was just concerned about his younger brother, but because Zou Xunjing had feelings for Lan Zhe, things took a turn for the worse.

First of all, Lan Zhe's professionalism does not allow business partners to let so much personal emotion get involved at the negotiating table. Previously, a boss brought his son to talk to Lan Zhe about work details. After only a few words, he wanted to feed the child. Lan Zhe endured it until the third time and then stood up and said that they would reschedule for another time.

Secondly, Zou Xunxian might be a severe brother-complex, which is why he constantly emphasizes Zou Xunjing's special status in the Zou family.

In reality, none of these issues would be considered major problems on their own, but they all inevitably stepped into Lan Zhe's minefield.

As expected, Lan Zhe remained calm and, after turning on his computer, discussed the relevant matters directly with Zou Xun.

"What would you like to drink, Assistant Lan?" Zou Xun asked first.

"Plain water, please." Lan Zhe handed over two pages of paper. "These are some revised details I've drafted. What do you think, Mr. Zou?"

Zou Xun sensed something, took the document, and read it carefully: "Hmm, there's no problem, but isn't the profit margin allowed in the third clause too low?"

“Not low,” Pei Wu replied. “We only have the right to use that land, and we have to pay the government a considerable rent every year. This is all the sincerity Changrong can offer.”

After a moment's thought, Zou Xunxian replied, "I see."

The waiter brought over a pastry, with cream on top shaped like a cartoon rabbit.

Zou Xunjing seemed to have little appetite, taking one bite before pushing it aside.

"Then it's settled." Lan Zhe closed his laptop and carefully put it into his briefcase. "I will send the final contract to your email no later than tomorrow morning."

"No rush, no rush." ​​Zou Xun glanced around nervously, then stammered as he began, "If you two are free, how about we have dinner together tonight?"

Before Pei Wu could speak, Lan Zhe replied, "No, I'm going home tonight to be with my parents."

"I see." Zou Xunxian's next words were cut off. They were both very busy people and knew how precious the time spent with their families was.

"When are you free, Assistant Lan? I'd like to treat you to a meal."

"I haven't had any time lately." Lan Zhe chuckled. "You know I'm constantly on edge."

Zou Xunxian said casually, "So if you work for me, I guarantee you'll have a week off..."

"Ahem." Pei Wu interrupted.

Zou Xunxian realized something, looked at Pei Wu with a horrified expression, and then stood up to apologize: "Sorry, I was just kidding."

Pei Wu wasn't angry: "President Zou, please don't let President Lu hear this, otherwise wearing a helmet won't be enough to solve the problem."

Zou Xunxian: "..."

Zou Xunxian looked a bit flustered, and Lan Zhe patiently talked to him for a while before deciding to leave.

"You two are busy, we'll head back to the company first."

"Wait a minute." Zou Xunjing, who had been quiet all along, suddenly spoke. His gaze was very focused and not aggressive, so his affection was like a fallen leaf sinking to the bottom of a clear lake. "Assistant Lan, can I talk to you?"

Lan Zhe was silent for a moment, then said, "Okay."

Zou Xunjing led the way, and the two went to the outdoor terrace.

Zou Xun watched their figures disappear, then sighed.

Pei Wu poured herself some water: "What is President Zou worried about?"

"I'm worried about my brother." Zou Xunxian didn't hide it and smiled. "Actually, Assistant Pei, you've noticed, haven't you? I've extended olive branches so many times, but Assistant Lan hasn't accepted them even once."

"Why should I accept it?" Pei Wu countered. "In President Zou's opinion, is Assistant Lan the kind of person who would easily disrupt his own life rhythm?"

“But…” Zou Xun first instinctively wanted to say something, but then fell silent.

"But your brother's feelings are genuine, aren't they?" Pei Wuping spoke calmly, with a hint of reassurance: "President Zou, don't you think this is unfair?"

Zou Xun was taken aback. "How is it unfair?"

“Because your younger brother is the only Omega in the family, and he's been pampered by everyone since he was little, when he likes someone, you subconsciously think that person should also belong to your younger brother. You think your younger brother is the best in the world, and you don't understand why Lan Zhe has rejected you time and time again.” Pei Wu paused, “Excuse me for being blunt, but perhaps Lan Zhe doesn't like you?”

“If you act like superiors, then Lan Zhe will never compromise in his life,” Pei Wu said. “Don’t forget, he was personally recruited by Lu Xiwen to be Chang Rong, and he has been steadily in the position of special assistant for many years, remaining proud until he became a high-level Alpha.”

High-level Alpha is second only to top-level Alpha, not to mention that Lan Zhe is one of the best among the high-level Alphas.

According to Lu Xiwen's plan for him, it was only a matter of time before Lan Zhe became a regional president in the next few years. Lan Zhe was too young, and with his stable living environment, he had already achieved a class leap to some extent.

He is personally capable and a confidant of Lu Xiwen, so his future is bright. The tempting conditions offered by the Zou family seem to indicate that they are certain that Lan Zhe, an Alpha from a less affluent family, will agree.

They offended Lan Zhe.

It might not be that serious, but Lan Zhe doesn't like it.

Pei Wu succinctly dispelled Zou Xunxian's long-standing confusion.

He was born with a silver spoon in his mouth and would never have thought of this.

Zou Xun stared at Pei Wu in disbelief for a moment before saying, "We mean no harm."

Pei Wu shook her head: "Feelings have nothing to do with this."

"Then, Assistant Pei, you..."

“I will not act as a lobbyist,” Pei Wu continued. “I only hope that you will not force the issue. If anyone in the family were to actually threaten Lan Zhe, Lu Xiwen would never tolerate it.”

"No, no, that won't happen," Zou Xunxian kept assuring him.

Terrace —

Zou Xunjing pulled a pack of cigarettes from his pocket: "Would Assistant Lan like one?"

"No, thank you."

So Zou Xunjing lit one for himself. He didn't inhale deeply, but he exhaled a heavy breath.