Chapter 80: Business Opportunity, Partnership with the Wealthiest Man

Before long, perhaps a quarter of an hour later, the two set aside their chopsticks, drenched in sweat, and the delicious fare in the clay pot had been devoured to the last drop.

Liu Lele gently unfolded a napkin, dabbing away the crimson at her lips and the fine beads of sweat on her brow. With a tone of wonder, she exclaimed, “This is nothing short of a miracle!”

Despite her efforts to strengthen her constitution through various means, the aftermath of the car accident had left her somewhat frail. Yet, after consuming this carefully prepared medicinal dish, all fatigue seemed to vanish, replaced by vigor and renewed strength.

Meanwhile, Ye Wujin rose from his seat, pacing about the room. He soon realized that the medicinal meal had eased his discomfort remarkably, its effects nearly miraculous.

Within moments, Liu Lele recovered from her astonishment. As a shrewd businesswoman, she instantly recognized the immense commercial potential hidden within this experience. She turned her gaze to Li Chao, her lips parted, tongue lightly touching her lip, and asked,

“Chao, is it possible to produce this medicinal cuisine on a large scale?”

Ye Wujin caught the implication as soon as the words left her mouth. He settled back in his seat, smiling warmly as he continued, “You’re thinking of promoting this medicinal marvel right here in Jiangnan Spring?”

“If we put this into practice, it would undoubtedly be a lucrative venture!”

In today’s world, the wealthy care deeply for their health, sparing no expense in pursuit of longevity. Compared to pricey health supplements, medicinal cuisine not only offers a superior taste but also nourishes the body, bringing both comfort and delight.

It warms the stomach,
strengthens the physique,
truly a perfect choice!

Li Chao gently shook his head in response to Liu Lele’s inquiry, explaining, “The medicinal meal I prepared today was tailored specifically to your individual constitutions. It’s not suitable for others to consume indiscriminately, lest there be adverse effects.”

Upon hearing this, the light in Liu Lele’s eyes dimmed somewhat.

But Li Chao quickly added, “However, I can compile recipes suitable for the general public.”

“Though their effects may not be as pronounced as the tailored dishes, they would still help nourish the body and enhance health. You could try promoting them to a wider audience.”

Liu Lele’s heart surged with excitement at these words. She sprang to her feet, gripping Li Chao’s hand tightly:

“It doesn’t matter if the efficacy is a little less!”

“As long as it can reach a wider market, that’s a tremendous achievement!”

Her hand was soft and smooth, clearly well cared for. The unexpected contact stirred Li Chao’s emotions, causing him to lose composure for a moment.

Realizing her lapse, Liu Lele quickly withdrew her hand, a faint blush coloring her cheeks.

She regained her composure as a capable businesswoman and continued,

“Though we address each other as siblings, the distribution of interests in business must be clear. You provide the secret recipes, and I will handle operations and marketing.”

“As for cooperation, you have two choices: either transfer the rights to the recipes to me outright, or join as a shareholder and share in the profits.”

“As a friend, I sincerely advise you to choose the latter and share in future success.”

“Shareholding?” Li Chao repeated, unconsciously glancing at Liu Lele once more, but quickly caught himself and adjusted his demeanor.

“Lele, what are your thoughts?”

Seeing his distraction, Liu Lele gently prompted him.

Li Chao pinched his palm, reminding himself to stay focused. He banished stray thoughts and replied with a smile,

“Lele, I’ll follow your lead. You’re more experienced in these matters—I trust your judgment.”

Liu Lele nodded, elaborating further,

“In that case, let’s settle it. You provide the recipes, and I’ll manage the entire project, from production to sales and marketing. Let’s work together and create something brilliant!”

“As for profit distribution, I propose you receive thirty percent.”

Her words radiated determination and confidence.

“If the recipes are as effective as we believe, I’m confident I can take them nationwide and make them the star of our brand. Profits will exceed all expectations, and you’ll never have to worry about making a living again—you can simply enjoy every moment.”

Afterward, Li Chao immersed himself in studying the ‘Xuantian Medical Canon,’ carefully selecting three recipes that were both suitable for regular consumption by the general public and had significant health benefits.

He meticulously recorded them and solemnly handed them to Liu Lele.

At the same time, Liu Lele efficiently drafted the cooperation contract, its terms thorough and precise, ensuring equal protection for both parties.

In a friendly atmosphere, they signed the contract and pressed their handprints, marking the formal start of their partnership.

As Li Chao stepped out of Jiangnan Spring Restaurant, a sense of unreality lingered in his heart.

He replayed their conversation and decision, feeling a surge of indescribable excitement and anticipation.

From this moment forward, he would have a stable source of income and no longer need to toil for his livelihood.

In the days ahead, he could focus more on his interests and pursuits, enjoying the tranquility and beauty of life.

His emotions soared and dipped like a roller coaster; the sudden happiness was both exhilarating and unsettling.

He knew this was not just luck, but the result of his and Liu Lele’s joint efforts.

Yet, as he basked in his joy, Ye Wujin’s words cooled him like a splash of cold water.

“Lele, don’t get too excited about the medicinal cuisine just yet.”

Ye Wujin’s tone was grave. He stood by the window, gazing deeply into the distant sky, as if pondering some heavy matter.

Liu Lele, hearing this, let the recipe slip from her fingers. She looked up, confusion and unease in her eyes.

“Old Ye, please speak your mind.”

Ye Wujin slowly turned, meeting her gaze, and said in a low voice,

“I suddenly suspect that the one who hired killers to target Li Chao and the one who previously targeted you may be the same mastermind. This isn’t baseless. Li Chao saved your life, which may have angered that person behind the scenes.”

Liu Lele trembled at his words, a vague figure flashing through her mind. But she quickly shook her head, trying to dismiss the thought.

“It shouldn’t be her… She certainly has motive, but… my intuition tells me it’s not so simple.”

Ye Wujin saw that she already had suspicions, but was unwilling to accept them.

He sighed and continued,

“Whatever the truth, we mustn’t let our guard down. Li Chao may be safe for now, but since the mastermind has acted twice, they won’t easily give up. We must strengthen our defenses and ensure both your and Li Chao’s safety.”

Though Liu Lele still didn’t want to believe the person could be so vicious, she knew that in this complicated world, hearts are hard to fathom.

She bit her lip, her gaze becoming resolute, and nodded in agreement.

“She may have her schemes, but as Old Qi said, no one can truly know another’s heart. We can’t jump to conclusions.”

Her voice carried a barely perceptible worry, but she quickly composed herself and continued,

“In that case, let’s set a trap and see if we can draw her out.”

Ye Wujin paced the room, hands clasped behind his back, contemplating the specifics.

He turned, his eyes shining with intelligence.

“This trap must be carefully designed—give her an opening, but conceal our true intentions.”

Liu Lele’s brows arched, a spark of excitement in her eyes.

She knew Ye Wujin was exceptionally clever; with him involved, their plan would be twice as effective.

She nodded,

“Good, I’ll follow your lead, Old Ye. I believe that if we work together, we’ll uncover the truth and reclaim justice.”

Their eyes met, and without further words, a tacit understanding was reached.

In the days that followed, they began intense preparations, laying ingenious traps, waiting for the mastermind to walk into them.

Li Chao, cloaked in the gentle glow of the setting sun, slowly entered the car Liu Lele had arranged, its interior simple yet refined. The wheels rolled over the cobbled streets of Chen Family Village, each sound echoing the call of home.

Inside the car, the air was scented faintly with sandalwood, shutting out the bustle of the outside world, leaving only thoughts to drift in tranquility.

Meanwhile, at a corner of Li Family Fort, Yu Xin moved about the clinic, industrious as a bee in spring. Her hands carried the warmth of medicine and the meticulous care for every patient.

The clinic was filled with the mingled aromas of herbs and disinfectant, creating a unique song of life.

And in this warm yet busy scene, an unexpected figure—Sun Peng—had not left.

He leaned against the doorframe, a faint smile at his lips, though his eyes revealed a subtle loneliness.

“Are you not going back to work?”

Li Chao’s voice, tinged with concern, broke the clinic’s quiet.

This simple question was a gentle inquiry into his old friend’s situation and a continuation of their camaraderie.

Sun Peng’s smile deepened, tinged with self-mockery and resignation.

“Where would I work now? Life is a chessboard, every move brings something new. My game seems to have reached a dead end.”

Li Chao’s heart was filled with complicated emotions. He understood Sun Peng’s plight and the bitterness of falling from the heights.

He smiled gently, conveying both sympathy for Sun Peng and an acknowledgment of his own limitations.

“Should I help you find a job?”

His words, like spring rain, sought to bring hope to Sun Peng’s predicament.

He knew that, thanks to his recent connections with local dignitaries, securing a position for Sun Peng would not be difficult.

But Sun Peng waved his hand, his refusal carrying pride and resolve.

“No need for all that trouble!”

Sun Peng’s words were simple yet firm. He shifted the conversation with an unexpected request:

“Does your clinic need a security guard? If not, I’ll be a porter! I want to work alongside you!”

For a moment, the air in the clinic seemed to freeze.

Li Chao was stunned; he hadn’t expected Sun Peng to make such a choice.

This sudden request was not only a gesture of trust in Li Chao but a redefinition of Sun Peng’s own future.

Li Chao’s heart rippled with warmth amid his confusion.

He looked around—this humble yet welcoming clinic, usually bustling with those seeking medical help, had never needed a security guard.

Sun Peng’s words, though half in jest, were sincere, revealing genuine friendship and concern.

“My father’s illness is cured, and now I’m at ease!”

Sun Peng’s words were like a spring breeze, carrying relief and contentment.

He knew that his father’s recovery was not only a great release for the family, but also gave him more time and energy to consider his future and help friends in need.

“A fence needs three posts, a hero needs three helpers.”

Sun Peng’s words held profound wisdom. In his own way, he told Li Chao that no one is an island; everyone needs the support of friends.

And he, Sun Peng, was one of Li Chao’s strongest pillars.

“You haven’t resolved yesterday’s matter, so at the very least I can stay and help keep watch!”

This statement flowed like a warm current into Li Chao’s heart.

He knew his recent experiences had been turbulent, and Sun Peng, usually carefree, was showing exceptional courage and responsibility at this crucial moment.

He was willing to stay, to protect their friendship and this peaceful haven in his own way.

“Don’t worry, you don’t need to pay me—just provide meals!”

Sun Peng’s words revealed his simplicity and straightforwardness. He cared not for material reward, but only for the camaraderie of working side by side.

Such a brother could only inspire respect.

Gratitude and warmth surged in Li Chao’s heart.

He realized that in this complex and ever-changing world, having a friend who treats him sincerely was a rare and precious fortune.

He silently vowed that, whatever difficulties or challenges lay ahead, he and Sun Peng would face them together.

After a busy afternoon, night fell, and the three gathered for dinner.

Laughter and chatter at the table dispelled the day’s fatigue and worries.

They shared stories and feelings, as if the whole world paused for them.

After dinner, each returned home and life resumed its peaceful rhythm.

Li Chao, after washing up, sat by his bed and began his cultivation.

He knew that only by continuously strengthening himself could he better protect those around him and face future challenges.

Sun Peng’s presence had undoubtedly added motivation and conviction to his path of self-improvement.