As a Magnate, I Started Checking in at a Convenience Store

“Young Chao, you’ve certainly worked hard. Let’s dig in before the food gets cold and your efforts go to waste,” Old Master Jiang remarked, motioning for Zhou Chao to retake his seat. He then declared that it was time to start eating. “Young man, you’re quite generous. From now on, you’re treating us all!” Xiao Yang whispered to Zhou Chao.

“Yeah, I agree. You should arrange everything in the future!” Jiang Yu chimed in.

“Hmm, the mo of you can keep dreaming. 1 might just go complain to Grandpa about both of you,” Jiang Li retorted, refusing to give in to the pressure from his older brothers aimed at Zhou Chao.

“Oh, you only care about Zhou Chao even when you’re not married to him! You’re ignoring your brother!” Xiao Yang’s words made Jiang Li blush, even her neck wasn’t spared.

“Haha!” Everyone laughed, including Zhou Chao.

“I stood up for you, and now you’re laughing at me?” Jiang Li’s hand had already found its way to Zhou Chao’s waist, and she whispered in his ear.

“Darling, I was wrong,” Zhou Chao whispered softly in Jiang Li’s ear, his hand resting on her waist.

“Oh, I can’t eat anymore. I’m nearly full from watching them being all lovey-dovey,” Jiang Yu teased.

“Brother Yu, I don’t know if this giant lobster can shut your mouth.” Zhou Chao said as he placed a large lobster into Jiang Yu’s bowl.

“Hahaha!” Everyone around them burst into laughter.

After several rounds of drinks and a feast of delicious dishes, the clock had already struck 8 in the evening. Both Old Master Jiang and Old Master Xiao had indulged in their fair share of alcohol and were escorted back home, with the aunts also retiring for the night. Only a handful of young individuals remained at the hotel.

“Brother Yang, do we have any other plans?” Zhou Chao looked at the five of them who were left.

“How about going to the bars at Shichahai?” Both Jiang Yu and Wen Shao nodded in agreement. Zhou Chao didn’t say anything but instead looked at Jiang Li.

Xiao Yang and the others all turned their expectant gazes toward Jiang Li. Seeing everyone’s expressions, Jiang Li couldn’t help but smile.

“If you want to go, then go. But, Brother Chao, you’re not allowed to go without me in the future!” Xiao Yang and the others teased Zhou Chao, but Zhou Chao only reached out and held Jiang Li’s hand, expressing his agreement.

“Let’s head to Shichahai!” Given that they had all consumed some alcohol, they made sure to have designated drivers. The group of friends departed in three cars, heading towards the bars at Shichahai.

The bars at Houhai were different from the ones Zhou Chao previously visited in Sanlitun. Sanlitun was more commercial and Westernized.

If Sanlitun’s bar street leaned toward popular brands, then Houhai’s bar street undoubtedly embraced culture. It’s a network of narrow alleyways by the sea, free from the noisy music, filled instead with melodious songs and the unique cultural atmosphere of the post-80s generation. Combined with the distinctive Houhai scenery, it creates an alternative and soothing vibe in the modern city.

Upon arriving at Houhai, Xiao Yang led everyone through the crowds to a bar named “Yuejie”, and they entered directly.

Zhou Chao held Jiang Li’s hand as they walked in. After entering, Jiang Li looked around in curiosity, as if she had entered a grand garden, full of wonder.

“Brother Chao~, this is quite different from the bars I heard about!” Jiang Li’s words amused Zhou Chao.

“Of course, this one is more about leisure, suitable for small gatherings of friends, chatting, listening to music, and enjoying yourself.” Jiang Li said, nodding after seeing the resident singer on stage as if she understood something.

Xiao Yang found a window seat with a view of Houhai. The night at Houhai had its unique charm.

Soon, a waiter came to greet them. Xiao Yang asked for everyone’s opinions and ordered a cocktail and some snacks for each person.

“Chao’er, how’s everything going with the Peng City project?” Zhou Chao heard Xiao Yang’s question and knew he was referring to the special steel project.

“We’re already working on the preliminary stages, and we might have good news in the near future. By that time, we can only produce and sell domestically.”

“Aren’t you worried about not finding a market? Well, you should ask Jiang Li’s father!” Xiao Yang’s words reminded Zhou Chao that he still didn’t know what Jiang Li’s future father-in-law did. He turned his curious gaze toward Jiang Li.

“Why are you guys discussing this, and why is my dad involved?” Jiang Li expressed her confusion, wondering what Zhou Chao had done that concerned her father.

“I’m just doing my best to earn enough money to get married.” Zhou Chao’s words made Jiang Li blush.

“Bro-in-law, just spill the beans already. Don’t speak in riddles!” Wen Shao, who was sitting nearby, couldn’t understand any of their conversation.

Wen Shao’s words made everyone laugh, including Jiang Li, who couldn’t help but giggle.

“I built an iron and steel plant in Peng City, and the quality is quite good. It might be used in military equipment!” Zhou Chao briefly explained his steel mill’s situation, trying to avoid going into too much detail.

“Oh, my dad is in the assembly department!” Jiang Li’s words made Zhou Chao feel like everything was arranged for her family.

“When the finished product is ready, I’ll talk to our dad!” Zhou Chao’s straightforwardness surprised Jiang Li, making her a little shy.

“Why are you calling him our dad? We’re not married yet, and you’re already using that term!” Jiang Li whispered next to Zhou Chao, clearly perplexed.

“Haha, once you enter my Zhou family’s door, you’re part of the family. There’s no escaping now!” Zhou Chao teased, causing Jiang Li to blush and playfully pinch his side.

“Cut it out!” Xiao Yang and the others watched Zhou Chao and Jiang Li, laughing at their interaction.

“You better treat my sister well. If she ever feels even a little bit wronged, I’ll come after you!” Jiang Yu raised his large fist dramatically as he spoke.

“Brother, I care deeply for her; I wouldn’t allow even the slightest harm to come to Jiang Li,” Zhou Chao declared, drawing Jiang Li closer to him. This playful affection elicited amused glances from Xiao Yang and the rest of their friends.

“Do you have any plans for the near future?” Xiao Yang raised his glass, signaling for a toast. After a small sip, he turned to Zhou Chao and inquired.

Zhou Chao glanced at Jiang Li beside him and then replied, “1 might have to return to Modu tomorrow. There are some matters in the company that require my attention.”

Hearing this, Jiang Li tightened her grip on Zhou Chao’s hand.

“That’s right, and it’s almost the Chinese New Year. You have a lot on your plate with your business. Cheers!”

The group continued to drink until late in the evening, leaving the bar past 11 o’clock.

“Brother Chao-, remember to visit me once you’re done with your busy schedule!”

“How about you come with me to Modu?” Zhou Chao’s words stirred a longing in Jiang Li’s heart.

“I’ll only be a distraction for you if I go with you. I’ll wait until you’re less busy, and then 1’11 come to accompany you.” Upon hearing this, Zhou Chao embraced Jiang Li.

“Alright, alright, you can continue getting intimate next time. It’s time to go,” Jiang Yu on the side interrupted their intimate moment, and then Zhou Chao released Jiang Li.

“I’ll head back first. Call me if you miss me!” Jiang Li said before leaving with Jiang Yu.

“Get some rest early. You’ve earned a perfect score tonight,” Xiaoyang suggested, and Zhou Chao understood his implication. He bid farewell to the group and departed as well..