"Why didn't you tell me about this investment?" Ling Chen, engrossed in the details, absentmindedly asked Xia Xin.
Lin Qiang quickly intervened to explain, "Director Xia oversees HR at the office; she wouldn't be familiar with these products."
"Well, this is very interesting, very good," Ling Chen continued, "What is the investment direction of this product?"
"It's primarily invested in bank loans or trusts, which are relatively stable with no risk, though the returns won't be high."
"Exactly, that's what should be taught—there's no such thing as easy money." Ling Chen closed the documents and said to Xia Xin, "I think we can help Lele invest in this."
Xia Xin nodded in agreement, "Right now, her monthly allowance is 300. So, a one-year investment of 3600 should be enough."
"Uh..." Lin Qiang awkwardly reminded them, "She earns about 300 each night. Considering the current economic situation, you might want to consider raising her allowance."
"How much do you think is appropriate?" Both Ling Chen and Xia Xin asked simultaneously.
Lin Qiang felt a bit embarrassed. It seemed the couple had been completely convinced by him, following his suggestions without question.
"I think it should match the average at her school, which I guess is around a thousand or so?" Lin Qiang suggested. "After all, Lele has seen significant money, and her classmates are likely quite well-off too. I think giving her a bit more, while guiding her on managing it, would be best. She should know she 'has a lot of money,' but also learn to manage it well. After a year of fruitful returns, she can reinvest for the next year. This way, she won't feel the need to work because her money is less than her peers', nor will she spend recklessly."
"Then let's make it 2000 a month," Ling Chen decisively said, slapping the table. "If she spends it all early, we won't give her any more."
"When Lele comes to the bank to withdraw money, I'll also counsel her."
"Alright, it's settled then," Ling Chen said with renewed vigor, smiling at Lin Qiang. "Thank you. I almost went to school to drag her back in a fit of rage. On second thought, that would only make her more rebellious, and who knows what she might do next."
Seeing her husband regain his composure, Xia Xin added, "Hehe, I told you Little Lin is reliable. There's a reason we came here."
Ling Chen hugged his wife with one arm and, relieved, said, "No need for Brother Lin to say more. I've got it figured out. Today is Friday; we can pick Lele up tonight and talk to her about the investment. Then, Xia Xin can take her to set it up on Sunday afternoon. Hopefully, with this money, Lele will stop going there, and no one will get hurt."
"That's the best outcome. I'm sure Lele is a good kid," Lin Qiang said, smiling with satisfaction.
Ling Chen nodded. "But just in case, we'll need your help, Brother Lin. Please keep an eye on that KTV in the evenings to see if Lele is still going there. Since you live in Longyuan, it would be a great help."
"Of course, I can check it out in the evenings." Although Lin Qiang felt uneasy about frequenting such places, he agreed for the sake of his moral high ground and career.
"For expenses in this regard, Xia Xin will give you some cash," Ling Chen instructed his wife.
"Is 10,000 enough?" Xia Xin turned to Lin Qiang.
"Not a single cent!" Lin Qiang immediately refused, firmly stating, "Director Ling, Director Xia, we're all in the same circle. There should be no financial transactions between us. It's a matter of principle and could be seen as unethical."
Ling Chen stared at Lin Qiang for a while, nodding continuously. In his eyes, this young man was sharp and principled. Though it might seem like a trivial matter, Lin Qiang's firm refusal showed his foresight—concerned about potential future investigations that might uncover minor irregularities, leading to scandals or disciplinary actions. This was a meticulous person. Ling Chen thought quietly that since Lin Qiang knew about Lele's situation, involving him in their plan was the best course of action.
"Alright, Brother Lin, I appreciate your consideration," Ling Chen continued. "Regarding the school and the KTV, I'll speak to some friends in the police force to investigate quietly and clean them up. My suggestion is for you to be involved too..."
Lin Qiang felt a bit uneasy. "Involving the police in an investigation... I'm not sure if..."
"Just accompany them. You understand the key points, right?"
"Yes, I understand." Lin Qiang nodded silently. It was clear that Ling Chen wanted to ensure Lele wasn't caught up in the investigation and needed Lin Qiang to protect her.
"We'll find a new school for Lele and persuade her to transfer." Ling Chen stood up and extended his right hand again. "This period will be tough on you, Brother Lin."
"I'll give it my all."
Ling Chen gripped Lin Qiang's hand tightly and sincerely said, "Fortunately, it was you who discovered this. My wife's judgment is indeed correct. She's mentioned you before. Young man, stay calm. There are plenty of opportunities."
Lin Qiang was flattered, understanding the hidden meaning in Ling Chen's words.
After discussing the details, Ling Chen had to attend his afternoon meeting, and Xia Xin, after expressing her thanks, returned to the office.
...
On the return train, Lin Qiang was still feeling a whirlwind of emotions. The outcome had far exceeded his expectations. His initial goal was to introduce the investment product to the Ling couple, gradually guiding Ling Lele back on track and establishing a connection for his future career.
But for Ling Chen, this outcome was insufficient.
Every father is protective of his daughter, especially to a great extent. This incident had undoubtedly infuriated Ling Chen. However, someone at his level wouldn't show his anger openly but rather quietly concoct a thorough plan for revenge.
In official circles, a rule of thumb is to consider power and rank over departmental affiliation when networking. Being highly placed in any department means overseeing a particular area, but leveraging one's position to build a broad network helps accomplish more. Frequent interactions create a network of connections and mutual support. Thus, although Ling Chen held a senior position in the audit office, his network undoubtedly included various sectors, with close ties to the police.
The remaining question was whether the protective shield over a small KTV in Longyuan was stronger than Ling Chen's connections in law enforcement.
"If this matter is resolved perfectly, then there will be no pressure in the future,..." Lin Qiang clenched his fist, names echoing in his mind. "Hao Wei... Qian Cai... you will soon suffer the consequences."
"I will return."
"And you will fall into the abyss."