Chapter 2834: Use people for their strengths

Su Xinghui nodded and said, "Yes, I originally intended to go back this morning, but President Gao insisted on treating me to a meal, so I stayed behind."

Zhao Yichen then raised his glass and said, "Then let me propose a toast to you, wishing you a smooth journey!"

Su Xinghui hurriedly said, "I wouldn't dare accept that; let me propose a toast to you instead!"

Zhao Yichen said, "There's nothing to be afraid of accepting. Come, let's drink!"

Su Xinghui drank this glass with him. Following that, the others at the table all toasted Zhao Yichen, and Zhao Yichen did not put on airs, drinking with each of them in turn.

After a few glasses, Zhao Yichen toasted Yin Deshan and Gu Zhilin. He had already heard Su Xinghui introduce their identities as the former factory director and former chief engineer of the Yanfang Group, both of whom were deeply respected by Su Xinghui. He felt a sense of awe toward the two elders and took the initiative to toast them.

After this round of toasts, the atmosphere at the table gradually became lively. Zhao Yichen said, "Brother Xinghui, President Gao, I won't be finishing my glasses from here on out. Everyone, please feel free, as I have official business this afternoon."

Everyone understood Zhao Yichen's words. He had already finished a glass with each of them, which was enough to show them respect. Furthermore, he worked in a very critical department and dealt with leaders every day; if he drank too much, it would leave a bad impression on his superiors.

So, everyone nodded and said, "Then please, feel free!"

The pace of drinking slowed down. Under Gao Zhiyong's enthusiastic urging, everyone ate more food. The food at the Yanzhong Hotel was indeed well-prepared; the head chef was a special-grade chef who managed the quality of the dishes quite well.

After all, this was Yanzhong City, and it was one of the most luxurious hotels in Yanbei Province. Most of the guests received daily were either wealthy or influential. If the food didn't suit the guests' tastes, then no matter how luxurious the place was, business wouldn't be very good.

The Yanzhong Hotel had recently changed owners, and Su Xinghui knew that this new owner was likely another figure with strong backing in Yanbei Province. Without such a background, they wouldn't have the strength to take over the Yanzhong Hotel.

With the deliberate efforts of Gao Zhiyong and others to build rapport, and because of Su Xinghui's influence, Zhao Yichen remained conversational and appeared very approachable, showing none of the arrogance of a Deputy Minister of the Provincial Party Committee Organization Department. Thus, the atmosphere at the banquet remained excellent.

Everyone talked and ate. By the time the meal was finished, it was nearly two o'clock. Zhao Yichen said, "Brother Xinghui, be careful on the road. I won't see you off, as I need to return to the department."

Su Xinghui nodded and said, "Then thank you, I will see you out!"

Su Xinghui, Gao Zhiyong, and the others saw Zhao Yichen out and walked him to his car. As he was getting in, Su Xinghui whispered to Zhao Yichen, "Minister Zhao, please look after President Gao."

Zhao Yichen looked at Gao Zhiyong and smiled meaningfully, "Alright, I'll keep it in mind. Naturally, I will take your brotherly matters to heart."

After Zhao Yichen's car sped away, Su Xinghui looked at Gao Zhiyong, who was watching him nervously. Su Xinghui gave him an "OK" gesture, and Gao Zhiyong finally let out a sigh of relief.

Su Xinghui walked over to Gao Zhiyong and said, "President Gao, you should get closer to Minister Zhao in the future."

Gao Zhiyong nodded and said, "I understand, thank you, Mayor Su!"

Su Xinghui said, "Why be so polite? I'll thank everyone for your hospitality over the past two days. I'm leaving now; everyone, feel free to come visit us in Baozhou when you have time."

After saying this, everyone saw Su Xinghui into his car. Su Xinghui waved to them, and Zhai Yingjie started the car and drove away.

After staying in the provincial capital for two days, Su Xinghui returned to Baozhou. Only one day after his return, it was the weekend. This weekend happened to be the last two days of the year 2000, and with New Year's Day, it formed a three-day mini-holiday. Su Xinghui and Xia Song returned to Jingcheng together.

Su Xinghui spent the last day of 2000 and New Year's Day of 2001 with his family, and Xia Song also had the opportunity to spend these meaningful days with Qi Hongyu.

Xia Song's parents had previously come to Jingcheng to propose marriage to the Qi family, and Xia Song and Qi Hongyu were now officially engaged. They were a betrothed couple, so naturally, Xia Song wanted to be with Qi Hongyu during this time.

The two were usually separated by distance; if Su Xinghui didn't create opportunities for Xia Song during such a time, he would feel he was being too inconsiderate to his subordinate.

After New Year's Day, Su Xinghui returned to Baozhou. Just as he entered his office, Xin Jing called, saying she had something to discuss with him. Su Xinghui told her to come to his office.

As soon as Xin Jing entered and closed the door, she said with a smile, "Xinghui, Happy New Year!"

Su Xinghui laughed, "Xin Jing, did you come all the way here just to tell me Happy New Year?"

Xin Jing said, "It wasn't just for that; I just got back to the office, saw that you had returned, and came over to tell you."

Xin Jing said this until her face turned slightly red. She had been watching from behind her window for a long time before she saw Su Xinghui's car drive into the courtyard, and then waited for Su Xinghui to go upstairs and enter his office, only then managing to call him at such a coincidental time.

Xin Jing hurriedly picked up her teacup and took a sip to cover her embarrassment.

Su Xinghui said, "Then thank you! I wish you a Happy New Year as well!"

Xin Jing said, "What are you thanking me for? Why be so polite?"

Su Xinghui asked, "Xin Jing, did you go back to Yanzhong these past few days?"

Xin Jing's expression dimmed, and she nodded, "I went back to Yanzhong once to see my parents."