Chapter 143 - It Was Worth It
Wasn't Ye Hao just a country bumpkin?
Liang Bin's assumption wasn't entirely baseless.
If Ye Hao were wealthy, why would he arrive at the Immortals Retreat in a taxi?
Yet, judging by recent events, Ye Hao often did the unexpected.
After a couple of minutes, a middle-aged man in slippers hustled over to Ye Hao, followed closely by four black-suited bodyguards.
Zhang Jinsong was on edge.
Once informed about Ye Hao by the manager, Zhang Jinsong had learned of his identity through the lobby's surveillance footage.
Zhang Jinsong was a prominent figure in the second generation of the Zhang family.
His significant influence stemmed from his role as the general manager of the Immortals Retreat.
The Immortals Retreat, one of Glento's three top-level clubs, secured its leading position thanks to the Faang family's clout.
Yet, the formidable Faang family had transferred ownership of the Immortals Retreat to Ye Hao.
Zhang Jinsong could still recall the reluctance in the eyes of the Faang family head as he handed over the share transfer documents to Ye Hao.
What did that imply?
This was no mere gift; it was a compelled restitution.
Zhang Jinsong was unclear about Ye Hao's background, but he vividly remembered the Faang patriarch's warning: never to cross Ye Hao or to covet his resources and connections. Otherwise, not only would Ye Hao not spare him, but the Faang family wouldn't either.
Zhang Jinsong had etched these words into his memory.
To Zhang Jinsong's slight relief, Ye Hao hadn't made any personnel changes after acquiring the club.
However, Ye Hao had unexpectedly shown up at the Immortals Retreat that day.
Zhang Jinsong had already clarified the details of the situation en route.
As Zhang Jinsong approached Ye Hao, about to address him as ‘boss,' Ye Hao shot him a cautionary glance.
With years of business experience, Zhang Jinsong instantly grasped Ye Hao's intent.
“Manager Zhang, weren't you going to offer me an explanation?” Ye Hao spoke calmly.
“I've gotten to the bottom of it. The mistake was on the part of the Immortals Retreat,” Zhang Jinsong replied, his tone deferential. “I'll arrange a superior private room for you right away. To show our apologies, your entire bill for this evening will be on the house.”
Ye Hao gave a slight nod of acknowledgment.
“I'll take you there,” Zhang Jinsong said, noticing the look of satisfaction on Ye Hao's face, which filled him with delight.
“Manager Zhang, you should get back to your work,” Ye Hao remarked coolly.
The woman in traditional attire beamed and approached Ye Hao, saying, “Please, go ahead and order.”
Ye Hao passed the menu to Xu Mengmeng, suggesting, “Go ahead and order.”
After a brief hesitation, Xu Mengmeng selected a few items. The prices listed on the menu took her aback, especially the cherry duck at 580 yuan. But once the girl dressed in traditional attire detailed the dish, Xu Mengmeng appreciated its value. Each cherry duck was meticulously hand-reared for over two years, and the staff dedicated three months to its preparation.
“Each dish here is crafted following ancient royal recipes, including the eighteen side dishes,” the girl in traditional dress explained gently.
That's when Xu Mengmeng and her companions grasped the justification for the steep prices.
The girl's thorough explanation of the culinary process and flavors of each dish left them savoring the experience long after the hour was up.
“Now I see why people enjoy splurging at upscale venues,” remarked Xu Mengmeng's father, astounded.
“I wish I could dine here every few days,” mused Xu Mengmeng's mother, glancing at Ye Hao with a hint of longing.
Ye Hao, however, remained unresponsive, not even sparing her a glance.
“The post-meal tea here is quite exceptional as well,” Ye Hao commented as a young woman in palace attire served a pot of aromatic tea. He then rose to his feet.
“Where are you headed?” inquired Xu Mengmeng.
“To the restroom,” Ye Hao replied before exiting the private room.
But Ye Hao's destination wasn't the restroom. Instead, he made his way to the ninth floor. Exiting the elevator, he was greeted by Zhang Jinsong, who awaited him.
“Boss,” Zhang Jinsong greeted with reverence.
“I expect today's incident not to repeat itself,” Ye Hao stated, fixing his gaze on Zhang Jinsong. “Moving forward, ensure the staff at the clubhouse maintain high standards.”
“I'll dismiss him immediately,” Zhang Jinsong offered.
“No need,” Ye Hao said, shaking his head. “A warning will suffice.”
“Understood, boss,” Zhang Jinsong responded, careful not to contradict Ye Hao's wishes.
“Additionally, notify our gold and diamond card members that the club will auction off a mysterious item tomorrow evening.”
“Boss, could you share some details about this item?” Zhang Jinsong inquired.
“It's a protective talisman.”
“What?”
“A protective talisman,” Ye Hao stated calmly.
“Do those actually exist?” Zhang Jinsong asked incredulously.
Ye Hao chuckled, pulled a piece of rune paper from his pocket, and handed it to Zhang Jinsong.
Zhang Jinsong examined it, and the corner of his mouth quirked involuntarily.
It was nothing but scrawly handwriting.