Chapter 364
Chapter 364
Chapter 364 - Banquet
Ye Fenglong wasn't the only one feeling bewildered; the venue was filled with many individuals, including those unfamiliar with Su Ming, who were equally puzzled by the unfolding events. A group of onlookers stood at the back, absorbing the astonishing scene before them. The individuals facing Su Ming were the most esteemed attendees of the event. It was quite telling that these high-status individuals addressed Su Ming with such reverence, referring to him as Mr. Su, a testament to his influence.
At that moment, Ye Guang's heart was racing. He had stepped away to take a phone call, only to return and find his son had stirred up significant trouble. The formidable Xiao family wouldn't dare cross the man in question, so what made him think he could provoke Su Ming? After all, he was merely a university principal. Even Old Master Tang, a giant in the medical field with an extensive network, treated Su Ming with the utmost respect. A single word of dissatisfaction from Su Ming could cost him his position.
With a slight smile, Su Ming reassured, “Mr. Ye, you're overthinking it. I had a pleasant conversation with your son.” Upon hearing this, Ye Guang felt a chill as sweat instantly coated his back, well aware that Su Ming's actual implication was the exact opposite of his words. Enraged, Ye Guang spun around and delivered another slap to his son. “I've been too lenient with you, and you've taken it as license to behave recklessly. Once today's banquet is over, you're to stay home and reflect on your actions. You're grounded for three years!”
Ye Fenglong's face went pale. He knew all too well that his father was not one for jests. He was facing a three-year confinement.
“Please, everyone, enjoy the banquet,” Su Ming said with a light smile. The guests exchanged glances and nodded in agreement. Old Master Tang took his place next to Su Ming, while Xiao Chen sat alongside Su Qiu. Wang Guohui and President Chen positioned themselves on opposite ends of the sofa. Behind them, the rest of the attendees stood with ramrod-straight postures, eyes fixed ahead in silence. They appeared less like banquet guests and more like candidates auditioning for a bodyguard role.
Su Ming glanced over his shoulder at the group, his expression one of mild exasperation. Was it too much to ask for them to relax a little? “Please, take your seats,” he said with a smile. “Yes!” came the resounding response. The group then took their places at the banquet tables, maintaining their upright postures and solemn demeanors.
The people around were so tense they scarcely dared to breathe loudly.
Were they actually here just to eat?
“Everyone, feel free to chat.”
“Yes!” came the unanimous response.
Then, someone stood up.
“Mr. Su is our guiding light, the lighthouse for our journey!”
Su Ming quickly intervened, “Please, just have a normal conversation.”
Had they practiced a recitation before coming here?
It was only at this moment that Ye Fenglong realized he had crossed paths with someone of great influence.
He was now profoundly thankful for Ye Guang's slap.
He had fancied showing off in front of Su Ming, not anticipating Su Ming's esteemed standing.
He had hoped to win Su Qiu's affection during this encounter, but his plans had fallen through.
He wouldn't dare to harass Su Qiu ever again.
Who would risk antagonizing a VIP's partner?
Noticing that he was being ignored, Ye Fenglong made a very prudent decision.
He needed to slip away quickly.
If he lingered, he risked becoming the focal point of collective ire.
Old Master Tang chuckled, “You've become the top figure in Eastsea now.”
?”Old Master Tang, you're too kind,” Su Ming replied with a smile, shaking his head.
Truth be told, I'd prefer to be just an ordinary person, but that's not an option for me.
?”Brother-in-law,” Xiao Chen began, recalling something, “My sister will be back home in two days, and she'd like to invite you to a meal, just the two of you.”
Their last meal hadn't been enjoyable due to interruptions.
This time, Xiao Ke'er was looking for a quiet place to have a good meal and a chat with Su Ming.
To secure the purchase of that building, Xiao Ke'er had agreed to a year-long consultancy role with the seller.
She was due to start in just two days.
Xiao Chen had wanted to discuss this with Su Ming, but his sister had stopped him.
Xiao Ke'er wanted to do something for Su Ming, feeling it was the right thing to do, without making a fuss about it.
Su Ming nodded in agreement; the previous meal had indeed been less than satisfactory.
“However, I insist on being the host this time. It's my treat.”
Xiao Chen nodded in acceptance, not objecting.
It was only fitting for him to offer, given his status as the brother-in-law.
“And who might this be?”
Xiao Chen's gaze settled on Su Qiu, prompting a chuckle from Su Ming. He knew Xiao Chen was inquiring on behalf of his sister. “Her name is Su Qiu, my sister. We've grown up together. She's currently studying at Eastsea University and has been constantly bullied by Ye Fenglong. I'm here to sort this out for her,” Su Ming explained with a smile.
Xiao Chen had an epiphany, reached out his hand with a grin, and said, “So, we're practically family.” Su Ming playfully smacked Xiao Chen on the head, and Xiao Chen withdrew his hand, feigning hurt. Su Ming couldn't help but admire Xiao Chen's acting prowess.
Ye Fenglong had planned to use the gathering to boast about himself, but it was Su Ming who ended up stealing the show. That evening, all the bigwigs came to toast to Su Ming, insisting that he stay seated while they drank in his honor. “Mr. Su, let us handle the drinking. You just relax,” they said, and continued toasting.
Wang Guohui and President Chen stood by Su Ming like two loyal bodyguards, beaming with pride. “We recognized Mr. Su's capabilities long ago! We're proud to be on Mr. Su's team!” they declared. Throughout the night, Su Ming was showered with praise.
Su Qiu, seated beside Su Ming, caught the attention of many companies. Numerous prestigious firms extended job offers to her, promising positions without the need for interviews upon her graduation. She could become a director, a general manager, or even receive a salary in the millions. They were ready to offer her the world, all out of respect for Mr. Su.
?Hours later, noticing Su Qiu's fatigue, Su Ming decided it was time to leave. The crowd behind him bid farewell with teary eyes, and after Su Ming's departure, some even broke down in sobs. Su Ming was baffled by their reaction—did they really think he was never coming back?