Chapter 145

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.

“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.