Chapter 99: Mengna's Invitation

"I'm about to entrust the construction of my new factory to you, Konglong."

"As for taking a share, if Konglong wants to join, I'd be more than happy!"

"My money has all gone into buying land, and I still haven't secured funds for equipment."

"Is that so? Leaving the factory construction to me is no problem at all. Besides, my crew of underlings have been idle lately." Upon hearing there's a chance to take a share, Konglong was quite pleased.

"How much does your factory need to be invested? I've saved a bit recently; if that's not enough, I'll ask my brother for a little more."

"My new factory will require about 40–50 million to get going. I've already put in 20 million, still short of another 20-plus million."

"If Konglong is willing to fund it, how about I give you a 50% stake?"

Chen Mo stared at Konglong with eager anticipation, as if hoping Konglong would agree quickly.

In reality, Chen Mo's words were meant to intimidate Konglong, hoping to make him back off.

Given Konglong's modest net worth, even selling him wouldn't raise a few hundred thousand, let alone tens of millions for an investment.

Konglong's reaction was exactly as Chen Mo expected; when he heard the need for over 20 million, he was utterly shocked.

"That much money?"

Jimi bought a sneaker factory for just 20 million, and Konglong knew that.

He thought Chen Mo was short only a few hundred thousand, but didn't expect Chen Mo to make it this huge.

"What does your factory produce? With such a large investment, when can you break even?"

Konglong asked curiously.

Although his enthusiasm for investing had waned by half, he couldn't help but want to know more.

If it could really make money, he could shamelessly ask Han Bin for a loan.

"I'm planning to produce high-tech goods; the investment is large, but it will definitely be profitable.

It should break even within four to five years."

Chen Mo swore solemnly.

"That long? Then forget it," Konglong shook his head and declined.

Investing over 20 million and taking four to five years to break even is too slow.

If he had that money, he'd rather open a few bars and gambling dens.

Chen Mo feigned disappointment: "Alas! Since Konglong doesn't want to, I'll think of another way.

But what about the factory construction?"

"The factory is fine. My construction crew is top‑notch; many factories in Tunmen were built by us. Rest assured.

We're all in the same camp; I guarantee you quality."

Konglong swore his guarantee.

Chen Mo felt relatively reassured about having Konglong handle the construction.

After all, Chen Mo's connection with Shisanmei was evident here.

Although Konglong isn't the sharpest, he does care about face.

If he were to cut corners while working for Chen Mo just to earn a bit more, it would be disgraceful.

After declining Konglong's invitation to treat, Chen Mo prepared to leave.

The data the system provided is also with Jimi; handing the factory's future planning to Jimi puts Chen Mo at ease, and staying here any longer is pointless.

However, on his way back, Chen Mo received a rather unexpected call.

"Mr. Chen, why haven't you been coming to our casino lately?"

Mengna spent a few days gathering information, confirming Chen Mo's lecherous nature, and immediately, per Liu Yaozu's orders, prepared to lure Chen Mo.

"Miss Mengna called me just to get me to gamble? I thought after what happened that night, I'd already been put on your casino's blacklist!"

Chen Mo verbally brushed off Mengna while pondering her motives.

He didn't believe Mengna was genuinely inviting him to the casino.

"Mr. Chen, you're joking. With your status, it's an honor for you to visit our casino. Even if you win a little, what's the problem?

Perhaps you could bring us many customers!"

"Is that so? Unfortunately I'm not interested in gambling, and I've been busy lately, with no time to play."

"Since Mr. Chen doesn't want to play, that's fine. Do you have time to have a meal together? I also want to discuss a business deal with you!"

Hearing Chen Mo decline the casino, Mengna instantly changed tactics.

"You operate the casino, I collect protection money. I don't think we have any business to discuss."

Although the woman seemed lively, Chen Mo wasn't very interested in her.

On the phone, Mengna, with a hint of levity, said: "Mr. Chen, a few days ago you took a piece of land from Liu Yaozu, and he's now looking for ways to deal with you."

"Miss Mengna, what do you mean? Should I be afraid of Liu Yaozu?" Chen Mo scoffed.

"Not afraid of thieves stealing, but afraid of thieves keeping you in mind? Don't you want to know how Liu Yaozu intends to deal with you?"

Mengna's words were indeed spot on.

Chen Mo was actually a bit curious about how Liu Yaozu planned to handle him.

In both strength and background, Liu Yaozu was several streets ahead of Chen Mo.

Could he rely only on those dozen men and a dozen pistols under his command?

If that's the case, Chen Mo would just think he's overthinking.

"I've indeed been busy lately. However, I still have time to have a meal with Miss Mengna."

Chen Mo thought it over and decided to meet Mengna, to see what she's really up to.

"Alright, the steaks and seafood at Immortal Roast Pavilion are great; I'll book a table and await Mr. Chen's grand arrival!"

Hearing Chen Mo agree to meet, Mengna's flirtatious energy surged again.

Chen Mo checked the time, then told Fei Ji: "Fei Ji, go straight to the Holiday Inn in Jianshazui."

Although it's a bit early to go now, Chen Mo currently has nothing else to do, so earlier is fine.

The Immortal Grill Pavilion is inside the Holiday Inn in Jianshazui, the ambiance is elegant, and many wealthy people's business banquets are held here.

Chen Mo simply didn't know whether Meng Na's invitation to meet here was just a meal.

Besides, meat that shows up at your door shouldn't be left uneaten.

Upon arriving at the Holiday Inn entrance, Chen Mo had just gotten out of the car when he saw Meng Na also getting out of a nearby car.

She had just arrived as well.

"Mr. Chen, what a coincidence. I didn't expect you to come so early."

Chen Mo smiled at Meng Na: "A beautiful lady's invitation, I dare not delay."

"I've already booked a room in advance at the hotel; let's go up together!"

"Oh? We didn't come just to eat, did we?" Chen Mo feigned surprise.

Meng Na leaned close to Chen Mo's ear, placed her hand on his chest, and exhaled like orchids: "The matter we need to discuss is quite secret, so of course we need to find a relatively safe place. I'll have dinner sent to the room."

Chen Mo narrowed his eyes slightly and smiled: "Miss Meng Na is right; we should find a somewhat safer space."

"Fei Ji, find your own place to eat; I'll call you when we leave."

Chen Mo wasn't at all worried about Meng Na pulling a honey trap.

As a luxury hotel in Jianshazui, the Holiday Inn's boss still has some clout, and its security is very thorough.

The honey‑trap trick works in small outside bars, but not here.

Meng Na booked a suite, which has a living room and a bedroom.

After the two completed registration at the front desk, shortly after entering the room, a waiter arrived with food.

After the waiter left, Meng Na walked to the table and gestured for Chen Mo to please sit.

"Mr. Chen, the house specialty here is charcoal‑grilled steak; give it a try."

Chen Mo glanced at the steak on the table, then walked straight to Meng Na's side, put his arm around her waist, and pulled her firmly into his embrace.

"I don't feel like eating steak right now; I'd rather have some seafood first."

"Just kidding, when can't you eat steak!"