20 Years Ago
The large banquet was a glittering affair, attended by some of the most influential people in the business world.
The ballroom was filled with round tables, each one covered in crisp white linens and set with fine crystal glasses decorated around.
And in the center of the room stood a long, ornate buffet table, groaning under the weight of an incredible array of dishes and delicacies. There was a wide variety of meats, seafood, and vegetables, as well as a large selection of cheeses, slices of bread, and desserts.
That was the area that attracted the most attention from kids that would rush over to grab something to eat.
Tang Qiaolian was no exception either as her eyes laid upon the delicacies.
"Wow, there are so many options to choose from." Her eyes were sparkly as she practically drooled over the beautiful food laid across the table.
She grabbed a small plate prepared for little kids like her and began picking up food.
And while Tang Qiaolian busied herself with choosing the food, Tang Lung had begun to introduce himself to other guests of the banquet.
The guests were all dressed in their finest attire, chatting and laughing as they helped themselves to some fine champagne.
Representatives from each of the participating companies were there, dressed in suits and formal wear, exchanging business cards and making connections.
At one end of the room, a band was playing soft, relaxing music, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Waiters circulated through the room, offering champagne and other beverages to the guests, who were in high spirits and having a wonderful time.
pαndα,noνɐ1,сoМ The event was a perfect opportunity for the companies to network and build relationships, as well as a chance to celebrate their recent successes and toast to the future.
The atmosphere was jovial and festive, and it seemed as though everyone was having a great time.
"Haha, isn't this new aspiring leader, Tang Lung?" An elderly man laughed heartily as he called out Tang Lung.
Tang Lung held a smile on his face as he greeted this elderly man with respect and seniority.
"I dare not call myself an aspiring leader, Senior Kang." Tang Lung said with respect.
Senior Kang, or Kang Dan, was the ancestor of the Kang Corporation, a top 100 world-leading company that invented numerous things that helped the public.
Toward someone like Kang Dan who had so much seniority, Tang Lung was just like a little child in front of him.
"Heh, no need to praise me that much, Tang Lung. I'm just a bag of old bones now." Kang Dan laughed.
"Oh right, since you're here, I should introduce you to Lei Touming." He added.
"Lei Touming? The owner of the Lei Enterprise?" Tang Lung was shocked when he heard Senior Kang was going to introduce him to such a figure.
Lei Touming was currently the trending leader and it was rumored that he was working on a very secretive project that would soon sweep the world.
"Haha, it seems like you are very much surprised. Lei Touming's two kids have also arrived today, so many are trying to urge their kids to befriend them." Senior Kang kindly gave him some advice.
His meaning was clear, and that was to have his child use this as an opportunity to befriend Lei Touming's kids.
Tang Lung could only smile bitterly as he glanced at the back where Tang Qiaolian was busy stuffing herself with food instead.
"Sigh, I would be grateful already if I can make acquaintance with Senior Lei Touming. Let alone trying to have my kid befriend his kids." Tang Lung said, not daring to dream that big.
"In that case, then follow me. Otherwise, we might not even get a glimpse of Lei Touming." Senior Kang laughed heartily and led the way.
Tang Lung made a final glance at Tang Qiaolian and seeing that she was enjoying herself with food, he subtly followed Senior Kang.
Meanwhile, back at the ornate buffet table, a couple of boys began pointing their fingers at Tang Qiaolian.
"When did this banquet have such a foodie here?"
"I know right. I would have thought we were in some lowly place where a beggar had come to eat all the food."
"Shhh, don't be so loud. What if she suddenly vomits all the food out and ruins our clothes?"
The boys were laughing and teasing Tang Qiaolian. It was clear that they were bored by the event and were looking for something else to do.
And when they noticed Tang Qiaolian was all alone and had her mouth dirtied by the food, they decided to tease her.
Tang Qiaolian's face was beet red as she lowered her head in embarrassment. Her hand was holding tightly at the kid's fork, unable to retaliate. She was scared and afraid of creating trouble.
Just when she didn't know what to do, another young boy's voice echoed from afar.
"Hmph, a bunch of bullies in this sacred banquet. What a way to sully a beautiful event completely!"
The young boys were frightened completely by the familiar sound of this voice as they turned around, and bowed their heads.
"We're sorry for inconveniencing you, Young Master Lei." One of the boys apologized.
Naturally, the one that had intervened was a young Lei Zhen, who was glaring at the bullies.
Lei Zhen glanced at the name tag pinned on the boy's clothes which labeled Ivan Chen and sneered coldly.
"Hmph, my sister is also here happily eating at the banquet. By saying that to the young girl over there, are you perhaps talking about my sister as well?" Lei Zhen said coldly.
Ivan Chen hurriedly went to his knee and pleaded for mercy.
He was especially warned by his father not to mess with the Lei and if so, then he would receive a brutal punishment. His pants started leaking out some liquid, causing the others to smell a stench.
Lei Zhen also covered his nose as he held a disgusted look.
"Hurry up and get out of my sight." He ordered, unwilling to even glance at him further.
