The early morning sun filtered through the tall windows of Chen Wei's office, casting golden light on the polished wooden desk stacked with documents and blueprints. His company, Wei Developments, had grown significantly in recent years, expanding its construction ventures to towns and villages surrounding their home. From housing projects to community halls, his work had become integral to the region's development.
Chen Wei leaned back in his chair, rolling his sleeves to his elbows as he reviewed the latest proposal for a new agricultural warehouse. His dedication had earned him a reputation as a fair but firm businessman, someone who respected tradition while pushing for progress. Yet, the weight of his success often felt heavy, especially with the expectations that came with it.
A knock at the door pulled him from his thoughts.
"Come in," he called.
His personal assistant, Yu Jian, entered with an air of quiet efficiency. Dressed in a crisp suit with neatly styled hair, Yu Jian was a person of remarkable competence. Nothing seemed impossible for him to manage. He had an uncanny ability to foresee problems before they arose and resolve them with ease, making him indispensable to Chen Wei. Yet, there was an air of mystery about him—he rarely spoke of his past or personal life, and no one knew where his sharp skills had been honed.
"Mr. Chen," Yu Jian said, placing a neatly organized file on the desk. "The survey team has finalized the locations for the community housing project near Willow Valley. I've arranged for a site inspection tomorrow morning."
"Good work," Chen Wei replied, skimming the document. He glanced up. "Anything else on the agenda?"
Yu Jian hesitated, his usual composed expression betraying a flicker of unease. "Ming Hao is waiting downstairs. He mentioned it was urgent."
Chen Wei raised an eyebrow. "Send him up."
A few moments later, Ming Hao strode into the room, his usual carefree demeanor replaced by a serious expression.
"Chen Wei," Ming Hao began, pulling a chair closer. "I've been looking into opportunities for expanding development near the riverbank. It could bring in more revenue and benefit the surrounding villages, but…"
"But?" Chen Wei prompted.
Ming Hao sighed. "There are rumors of land disputes in that area. It's going to take careful negotiation to get the villagers and the council on the same page."
Chen Wei nodded, his mind already piecing together a strategy. "We'll handle it. Yu Jian, gather all the legal documents on land ownership in that area. And Ming Hao, prepare a meeting with the village leaders. Let's ensure we do this the right way."
Ming Hao leaned back in his chair, rubbing his temples. "You know, I think I inherited this obsession with land from my father. Being a merchant, he was always on the move, talking about territories, trade routes, and land values. I used to follow him around, listening to his deals and learning how land wasn't just dirt—it was history, opportunity, and future. I suppose it stuck with me."
Chen Wei chuckled softly. "And now you're turning that knack for land into something useful."
Ming Hao grinned faintly, but his mind seemed elsewhere as he added, "Still, land disputes make me think of all the arguments I saw as a kid. It's always messy."
Chen Wei clapped him on the shoulder. "Messy or not, we'll sort it out. Let's move forward."