Previously on I Have 10 Trillion Dollars only Usable For Simping...
Zhang Zhongquan initially doubted Jiang Chen's claims of wealth, but Jiang Huazi insisted on respecting him due to his connection with Fang Qing. Fang Weiguo, observing the family dinner, subtly encouraged a connection between Jiang Chen and Fang Qing. When Zhang Zhongquan later begged for help with his housing issue, Fang Weiguo demanded he toast Jiang Chen first. Zhang Zhongquan complied, and in response, Fang Weiguo agreed to help.
"Sis, you sit; I’ll just stand."
"I’m full!"
Jiang Huazi stated with annoyance, but in the end, she yielded her seat to her cousin.
What other choice was there?
Since wine had already been poured, refusing further would appear overly rude.
Jiang Huazi gathered her bowl and chopsticks, then stood up to begin serving.
After the initial pleasantries, Zhang Zhongquan, who had been on his feet for most of the day, rapidly sat down heavily, downed half a glass of wine, and then refilled his own.
"Uncle, regarding your fatty liver..."
Hong Xiaoyu interjected.
That fatty liver excuse was merely a weak fabrication made earlier to preserve appearances.
"It’s nothing. It’s quite rare to have Fang join us. Fang, I must propose a toast to you and your family for raising such a remarkable daughter and securing an excellent son-in-law!"
A person like Zhang Zhongquan seemingly possessed an innate talent for politics; when profit was in sight, he could readily shed his dignity and pride. Upon hearing of the Fang Family's offer of assistance, all his prior humiliation evaporated, transforming him into the most animated individual at the table.
Regrettably.
His timing was unfortunate; he was born too soon, in a challenging era, possessing only a junior high school education, and hadn't even completed that. Had he been born in the current times and perhaps strived harder to enter civil service, he would undoubtedly flourish, rather than being in such a desperate situation, scrambling to acquire a failing property and pleading with others.
"Zhongquan, I must clarify upfront, Qing Qing can assist you in pursuing your rights, but we cannot guarantee the final outcome."
Fang Weiguo lifted his glass, cautioning him against celebrating too soon.
"Fang, you jest. Qing Qing is recognized as a premier lawyer in the nation. Once she engages in this case, victory will undoubtedly be hers with minimal effort."
Zhang Zhongquan offered a warm smile, then addressed the young couple.
"Qing Qing, please do not concern yourself. Uncle Zhang will certainly not forget this kindness. Regardless of the outcome, your willingness to help is an immense favor, and I shall forever hold it in my heart."
At moments like this, he no longer paid heed to whether the other person was boasting.
Let's just assume for a moment he's an illegitimate child from the Geng Family!
Zhang Zhongquan's enthusiastic participation led to the rapid consumption of alcohol, and the second bottle brought back by Hong Ou was opened without hesitation.
"This wine is not inexpensive; consume it sparingly!"
Jiang Huazi admonished from the side, attempting to maintain decorum.
"Look at what you’re saying. Two bottles, what’s the cost? I can afford to buy them myself, can’t I?"
Zhang Zhongquan feigned reaching for his phone to initiate a transfer.
Women could be so bothersome. Wasn't the proper etiquette when seeking help to be humble? He had complied, yet now he was being chided for drinking too much.
"You..."
Jiang Huazi felt a surge of fury. It wasn't about the cost of the wine, but rather her hope that her cousin would exercise some restraint. Seeking assistance was acceptable, but could he not be so excessively obsequious? There's a saying that too much of anything can be problematic, yet this man, upon securing the Fang Family's agreement, immediately cast her aside, as if burning bridges.
"Zhongquan, how can you speak to Huazi like that? Huazi has been tirelessly working on your behalf; she's visited my home on numerous occasions. Besides close family, who else would show such genuine concern?"
Fang Weiguo swirled his glass, adding, "You should treat your relatives with more respect in the future."
"Of course!"
In Fang Weiguo's presence, Zhang Zhongquan's demeanor shifted instantly. He nodded earnestly, quickly pocketed his phone, failed to grasp the deeper implication of the words, and offered Jiang Huazi a perfunctory smile, "Sis, I was merely jesting, please don't take it to heart."
Jiang Huazi clearly saw through his pretense, but what could she possibly do?
"I owe you nothing further!"
She declared with indignation.
Zhang Zhongquan let out a soft chuckle, affecting deafness.
Observing this exchange, Fang Weiguo remained silent, continuing his drink.
"I heard that the Sanjian Courtyard is slated for demolition completion this year, correct, Fang?"
"Yes, everyone must vacate by year's end."
"After all these years of rumors, it's finally happening. Congratulations, Fang! I heard your allocated unit is on Bibo Road, one of Sha City's most desirable districts. Currently, the average price in the vicinity hovers around 9000, quite a substantial profit!"
The final statement tumbled out spontaneously.
Transitioning from an old, small post-resettlement courtyard to a prime location not only promised a significant enhancement in living standards but also the potential for a fortune that others could only envy.
It was akin to divine providence.
"Demolition projects these days are not like they used to be. Previously, every household saw prosperity after demolition, but now, merely breaking even is considered fortunate, with the exception of your Sanjian Courtyard..."
Zhang Zhongquan uttered with a hint of jealousy, taking a sip of wine, his emotions momentarily reined in.
"It's all thanks to Jiang Chen. If not for that young man, we might never have seen this day, even in death."
Finally.
Pan Hui uttered this name for the first time during the entire meal.
No matter how hazy Zhang Zhongquan's memory, a vivid recollection struck him at this precise moment.
His drink froze mid-air, a complex tapestry of regret, bewilderment, remorse, and shame washing over his features, though notably absent was any hint of guilt.
"Is it accurate that the demolition of Sanjian Courtyard was orchestrated by Jiang Chen?"
Fang Weiguo casually confirmed with a simple, "Yeah," as he continued to eat. However, to Zhang Zhongquan, this affirmation felt like a crushing blow, constricting his chest and making it difficult to draw a breath.
Can you truly grasp such a feeling?
It's akin to possessing a winning lottery ticket worth five million, only to realize it's lost just as you're about to claim your prize.
If only it had been different.
If only.
Had he shown that child a modicum of kindness back then, fulfilled his obligations as an uncle after his brother and sister-in-law departed, perhaps offered some financial assistance or occasional words of concern, instead of maintaining a stance of cold indifference, would he now be agonizing over a failed construction project?
The Sanjian Courtyard, which had resisted demolition for years, was swiftly initiated and completed due to that very child, resulting in every resident being relocated to the most desirable areas of Sha City.
Zhang Zhongquan would have gladly inflicted upon himself a severe slap if it could somehow alter the present circumstances.
"What is Jiang Chen engaged in nowadays?"
Zhang Zhongquan couldn't suppress the question, fully aware that regret offers no solace, and even groveling apologies now would be utterly futile.
Besides.
Is this truly a matter of seeking repentance?
If sincere remorse is what's required, perhaps he ought to confront his brother and sister-in-law more directly.
Never mind Jiang Chen; ever since his brother and sister-in-law passed away years ago, he hadn't once paid his respects at their graves.
"Didn't Huazi inform you?"
Jiang Huazi discreetly observed Jiang Chen, replying, "Fang, I'm not entirely certain myself."
"He's currently embarking on his own venture, establishing himself as an independent entrepreneur."
Fang Weiguo offered an answer that was intentionally vague.
Despite his disdain for Zhang Zhongquan's character, he refrained from deliberately exacerbating his distress.
Engaging in further argument with someone of his caliber seemed entirely pointless.
"His business must be thriving? He only graduated a few years ago, yet he's achieved such remarkable success; it's truly astonishing."
"You found that unforeseen, didn't you?"
This remark wasn't intended as mockery. Observing her nephew present, Jiang Huazi mused that perhaps this statement could offer some small measure of comfort, potentially easing any lingering resentment he might hold.
Her intention was to assist Zhang Zhongquan, but he failed to grasp the nuance, feeling only awkwardness and embarrassment, though he managed to maintain a facade of nonchalance to preserve his pride.
"Haha, it's certainly unexpected; I daresay no one could have possibly predicted this outcome. Speaking of which, back in the day, Qing Qing and Jiang Chen were childhood sweethearts, a truly perfect match."
It was a clever redirection, a masterful shift in conversation.
Driven by an urgent desire to steer the topic away, he spoke without forethought. Soon, however, Zhang Zhongquan realized the gravity of his current position.
At this juncture, he absolutely could not afford to alienize the Fang Family.
He hastily sought to rectify his previous statement, only to be interrupted.
"Indeed, who could possibly dispute that?"
Fang Weiguo, seemingly oblivious, sighed deeply. "The most profound sorrow in this world stems from possessing destiny yet missing the opportunity. What a tragedy."
He shook his head, palpable regret clouding his expression.
Zhang Zhongquan was momentarily dumbfounded.
"Uncle Fang, you're quite the modern sort."
Xiao Yu let out a surprising laugh.
Zhang Zhongquan's mind struggled to process the turn of events, becoming a confused jumble as he involuntarily glanced at the young man, perceiving him as Fang Qing's potential suitor.
Wasn't this her current boyfriend?
How could everyone act as if he were completely invisible?
