That one sentence made Xiao Qiang feel a tightness in her chest again.

But she could only silently digest it.

Her beautifully colored lips, lightly painted with nude lipstick, parted once more.

"President Ye, you should understand that this is undoubtedly a mutually beneficial collaboration. I believe you have grand plans for Wuxia Cream and Yiren Ru Xue. Henda Group can help you realize these plans swiftly. The influence of Henda's brand can pave the way for Yiren Ru Xue's success without obstacles.

President Ye, we both know that the miraculous effects of Wuxia Cream will eventually make it a nationwide sensation, even without external help. However, have you considered that the emergence of such a product will collapse the existing market, cutting off the financial lifelines of countless brands, companies, and individuals?

As the saying goes, 'The tallest tree in the forest is the first to be felled.' When Wuxia Cream disrupts the market, it's inevitable that you'll face relentless attacks from your competitors. They'll stop at nothing to destroy it. Without strong backing, how long do you think Yiren Ru Xue can withstand the storm?

However, with Henda Group's involvement, you can sit back and relax. Henda will shield you from any threats. Those who dare to challenge Yiren Ru Xue won't stand a chance. I believe you understand that we live in an era dominated by capital and conglomerates. Many companies and products are acquired not because their founders want to sell, but because they cannot protect what they've built.

Even if we set aside those concerns, let's address a more immediate issue. Henda can rapidly scale Yiren Ru Xue's production, boost its global reputation, and serve as a springboard into the capital market. With our involvement, if you wish, Yiren Ru Xue could go public within three years!"

Xiao Qiang outlined everything quickly.

She continued, "Moreover, out of appreciation for you and the future we envision together, just name the amount of investment you need, and Henda will provide it. I can confidently say, no one else can offer this level of sincerity."

Were these valid concerns raised by Xiao Qiang?

Yes. And each one was unavoidable.

Furthermore, she wasn't exaggerating. With Henda Group's resources, it was entirely possible.

If Ye Chen weren't a reborn individual with memories from his past life as a business tycoon, he might have seriously considered the offer.

But his unique experiences made it unnecessary.

Before he could respond, Xiao Qiang continued.

"President Ye, you probably know that Henda has acquired the development rights to the suburban area. That location will soon become a major hub in Jiangzhou. If you're interested, Yiren Ru Xue's headquarters can be built there, perhaps even as a landmark."

It was undeniably tempting—genuine and full of sincerity.

After Xiao Qiang finished, Ye Chen smiled slightly.

"President Xiao, aren't you only responsible for Henda's real estate division? Why are you involved in this?"

Xiao Qiang smiled bitterly. "Now you understand why I didn't know how to answer when you asked what capacity I was representing today. Technically, I shouldn't be discussing this with you, but Chairman Xu thought it appropriate since I've dealt with you frequently. That's why I'm here."

She added, "President Ye, do you need time to consider my proposal? This isn't a formal meeting—think of it as a friendly chat. If you're interested, Henda's official team, perhaps even the chairman, will follow up with you."

"President Xiao, I'm afraid Henda Group will be disappointed," Ye Chen replied with a shake of his head.

"Huh?" Xiao Qiang was stunned.

Was this... a rejection?

Honestly, she never imagined Ye Chen would refuse so decisively. She thought he couldn't possibly turn down such a deal.

To her, Ye Chen was smart—extremely smart.

Surely he realized the threats Yiren Ru Xue would face without a safety net.

Seeking shelter from a powerful ally seemed like the natural course for Yiren Ru Xue.

Yet he refused?

Did he believe Zhang Jingshan, the grandson of Jiangzhou's former party secretary, would guarantee his safety?

"President Xiao, as I said, your offer is tempting, and Henda's sincerity is evident. But, to be frank, I believe Yiren Ru Xue can withstand whatever storms lie ahead. Since its inception, I never intended to dilute its shares. So... please convey my gratitude to Chairman Xu and Henda Group for their kind offer," Ye Chen replied calmly.

Ye Chen understood Henda's motives perfectly.

Once Yiren Ru Xue soared, it would not only generate immense profits but become an unparalleled cash flow giant, something companies like Henda desperately needed.

As Xiao Qiang said, it was a win-win collaboration.

Henda could protect Yiren Ru Xue, while Yiren Ru Xue's cash flow could bolster Henda.

If the partnership succeeded, Henda's eventual downfall—something Ye Chen witnessed in his past life—might never occur.

But Ye Chen wasn't aiming for a win-win.

Why share half the kingdom when he could take it all?

Why split the cake when he could have the entire dessert?

If Henda continued down the same self-destructive path, Ye Chen might even turn the company into a stepping stone for his empire.

Xiao Qiang was dumbfounded by Ye Chen's casual yet firm rejection.

Not even a second thought?

His decisiveness suggested he had anticipated her purpose from the start.

"President Ye, forgive me for asking, but did you know I came to discuss this from the beginning?" Xiao Qiang frowned.

"More or less," Ye Chen replied candidly.

"Then why agree to meet and let me present everything?" she asked.

"If I accepted, it was for you. Letting you explain was a form of respect and gave you something to report back to Chairman Xu. Is that so hard to understand?" Ye Chen smiled.

Xiao Qiang was stunned once more.

She understood the latter part.

But the first part—"for you"—confused her.

Surely he didn't mean... that?