In Hong Kong, we build a global business empire

Chapter 736 Back to Pengcheng!

Lin Haoran stayed alone in the office for more than an hour until the sun set and the sky gradually darkened.

He got up from his chair and looked out the window again. The lights of Hong Kong were just coming on, and the neon lights were flashing, as if countless capitals were surging in the undercurrents.

A cold, stern smile crept onto Lin Haoran's lips.

Li Ka-shing, the once-renowned richest man in Hong Kong, is about to acquire Hutchison Whampoa, his most important company.

This feeling seems even more satisfying than taking over companies like Hong Kong Electric Group and Hong Kong Telephone.

Even though he is now the only dominant figure in Hong Kong's business world.

"40%? That's indeed a very high shareholding percentage, enough to deter most potential buyers. Unfortunately, you've run into me, Li Ka-shing. I'm really sorry." He muttered to himself, as if he were having a conversation with Li Jiacheng across time and space.

Li Jiacheng has repeatedly tried to sabotage him in secret. Does he really think Lin Haoran is made of clay?

This time, he's going to get it all back, with interest!

A cold glint flashed in Lin Haoran's eyes.

Previously, although he and Li Jiacheng were not exactly business partners, they were considered ordinary friends because of Bao Yugang.

As a fellow Chinese businessman, he did not want to fight among himself; he had always been more interested in targeting British-owned conglomerates.

This can be seen from his acquisitions of companies such as Chow Tai Fook, Hong Kong Electric Group, Hong Kong Telephone, Hongkong Land Group, and Hong Kong and China Gas.

Therefore, he never considered Hutchison Whampoa, even though he knew the company was of high quality and no less than Hongkong Land.

However, starting with the business competition between East Asia Bank and Huifeng Bank, and later, Li Jiacheng caused Lin Haoran a lot of trouble by leveraging his close relationship with British conglomerates.

Although Lin Haoran resolved each issue and even strengthened himself in the process, he always remembered this pride.

He is unwilling to provoke his fellow Chinese entrepreneurs, but that doesn't mean he will let go of his business rivals.

The business world is like a battlefield; timing is everything.

Now that Li Jiacheng has revealed his weakness and set up such a perfect stage to appease the market, if Lin Haoran doesn't seize the opportunity and take a big bite out of the biggest piece of meat, wouldn't he be letting down his opponent's "good intentions"?
"Your biggest mistake was not considering whether I would covet Hutchison Whampoa."

"Furthermore, in order to cope with the short-term crisis, we relied too heavily on banks, but ignored those 'allies' who also held substantial funds but might turn against us due to panic and greed. I never imagined that I would target some of Hutchison Whampoa's other important shareholders," Lin Haoran murmured.

In his view, Li Ka-shing was too confident. He was confident in his absolute control over Hutchison Whampoa, confident that no one would dare to mess with Hutchison Whampoa, confident that the support of the banks could solve all problems, and confident that the shareholders would share his optimism about the long-term future and weather the storm together.

But this confidence proves incredibly fragile in the face of real crisis and enormous immediate gains.

He seemed to have already imagined the shock and fury Li Ka-shing would feel when, while still basking in the victory of defeating Universal Research and securing bank support, he was suddenly informed that the board of directors was about to hold an emergency meeting to discuss the proposal from the new major shareholder.

The feeling of weightlessness as you suddenly fall from the clouds is surely enough to repay all the "care" you've received in the past.

The office was unusually quiet, with only the air conditioner humming softly.

Lin Haoran savored the tranquility and sense of control that preceded the great battle.

All the pieces are in place, and all the strategies have been deployed.

Now, all that's left is to wait for the opening bell tomorrow, and this meticulously planned capital raid will officially begin.

However, this business battle has already been arranged.

His generals are about to go to the battlefield.

However, he, the behind-the-scenes head of the business empire, does not need to personally go to the front lines to fight.

Strategizing within the command tent, securing victory a thousand miles away.

This is where he truly belongs.

Tomorrow, Lin Haoran already planned to go to the mainland with Guo Xiaohan, and two days ago he had already made an appointment with people in Pengcheng to personally donate HK$100 million to Pengcheng University, which is currently being prepared.

Although leaving Hong Kong at this crucial moment is not a good idea.

However, Lin Haoran didn't care. He was confident that his subordinates could handle things well.

Even if something goes wrong, he still has a trump card up his sleeve.

In reality, even if he stayed in Hong Kong, he wouldn't have made much of a difference.

What he said was mostly theoretical; it really required hands-on, perfect execution.

In terms of leading a company and a team, he felt that his abilities were inferior to those of ordinary senior managers, let alone compared to Ma Shimin.

Besides, he was only going to Pengcheng, a place that could be reached in an hour by wing-ship, making it extremely convenient to travel back and forth.

Furthermore, even when traveling to the mainland, one can still contact others by phone, so leaving Hong Kong is not a problem at all.

Tomorrow, a storm will rage here, while he will, in a completely different way, place another important piece on a different piece of the game, on another land where earth-shattering changes are brewing.

Donating to Pengcheng University is definitely not a spur-of-the-moment decision or a simple act of charity.

This is a well-thought-out strategic move.

The mainland's reform and opening-up is progressing rapidly, creating an unprecedented thirst for talent and technology.

Investing heavily in education at this time is like sending charcoal in snowy weather. It can not only win a high reputation and deep friendships, but also lay the groundwork for the future and establish a strong foundation of connections and influence in the vast mainland.

This complements his current aggressive moves in the Hong Kong capital market, one overt and one covert, one soft and one hard.

On one side is blatant capital conquest, and on the other side is strategic investment focused on the long-term future.

"The chessboard in Hong Kong is set up, and on the mainland, my pieces have already been placed." Lin Haoran muttered to himself, a smile on his lips carrying a deeper meaning.

By this time, night had completely enveloped Hong Kong.

It's time to go back.

Lin Haoran, accompanied by his bodyguards, quickly left the Kang Le Building in a Rolls-Royce.

A dozen minutes later, the car smoothly drove into the designated parking space for the Lin family villa on Shi Xun Road.

"Brother Haoran, you're finally back! The food is ready, we're just waiting for you. I'll have the kitchen serve it right away." Lin Haoran had just gotten out of the car when he heard Guo Xiaohan's voice.

Guo Xiaohan excitedly ran out of the villa and quickly came to Lin Haoran's side.

"Silly girl, if I get back late, don't wait for me, just eat first." Lin Haoran patted Guo Xiaohan's hair and said with a smile.

It was already past 7 p.m., which was indeed quite late.

“It’s not late. It’s no fun eating by myself. The food tastes better when I eat with Haoran.” Guo Xiaohan took his arm, her eyes and brows beaming with smiles.

The two walked into the villa hand in hand.

Although they are not officially married yet, the two are already like any other couple.

"Ta-da! Look, Haoran-ge!"

Guo Xiaohan mysteriously led Lin Haoran into the dining room, where the lights were off but some candles were lit.

"Hehe, Haoran, I've prepared a sumptuous Western meal today. You won't dislike it, will you?" Guo Xiaohan looked at Lin Haoran with expectant eyes.

Suddenly, the candlelight flickered to the right, and the antique gramophone in the corner turned on its own, playing the third movement of "The Blue Danube".

"Western food is fine, is today some special anniversary?" He smiled, pulled out a chair, and sat down.

"No, I just wanted to have a romantic time with Haoran." Guo Xiaohan sat down opposite Lin Haoran.

"You silly girl!" Haoran looked at her with a hint of doting affection.

Guo Xiaohan is practically his "perfect wife" candidate.

In terms of family background, they are on par with him and are well-matched, and their families can provide him with strong support in his career.

In terms of looks, she is in no way inferior to Kwan Ka-wai;

In terms of feelings, she loved him far more than he loved her, and what's even more astonishing is that she could tolerate him having relationships with other women outside.

He was incredibly lucky to have met a woman like that.

The servants brought in dinner one by one.

In a romantic atmosphere, Lin Haoran took a sip of the 1970 Petrus red wine. The rich and mellow taste spread on his tongue, carrying the charm of time, as if he had poured his passion and ambition into the aroma of the wine.

The candlelight dinner lasted for more than an hour.

Perhaps because she had drunk some alcohol, Guo Xiaohan was very proactive and passionate that evening.

In the bedroom, which was several tens of square meters in size, Lin Haoran carried Guo Xiaohan in his arms and gently placed her on the bed.

The air was filled with the subtle aroma of red wine and the faint fragrance emanating from Guo Xiaohan.

Her cheeks were flushed, and her eyes were glistening with tears. Her usually gentle and charming appearance now had a touch of boldness and allure.

She took the initiative to wrap her arms around Lin Haoran's neck, tilted her head back, and gave him a kiss that smelled of wine—awkward yet passionate.

Lin Haoran was slightly taken aback, but was then infected by her enthusiasm and took the initiative, deepening the kiss.

"Brother Haoran..." Guo Xiaohan's voice carried a hint of seduction, but even more so, it was filled with unreserved love and dependence.

Perhaps because of the alcohol, she clumsily unbuttoned his shirt, her fingertips trembling slightly with anticipation, yet with unusual persistence.

Lin Haoran looked down at her.

This woman, who had given him her whole heart, was now opening herself up to him without reservation.

Outside, he is a cold and decisive business tycoon who instills fear in his opponents, but at this moment, in this private space enveloped in love, the softest corner of his heart is gently touched.

He took her busy but clueless little hand in his, his voice slightly hoarse with emotion: "Don't rush, let me do it."

He leaned down, and his kiss landed again, but this time it was longer and more delicate than before, carrying an undeniable tenderness and possessiveness, tracing her lips as if he were savoring the most precious wine in the world.

Guo Xiaohan squinted her eyes, looking completely at him. Her clothes gradually fell away, and the lamplight cast a warm glow on her delicate skin.

At seven o'clock the next morning, Lin Haoran's biological clock woke him up from his deep sleep.

As Lin Haoran withdrew his slightly numb right hand from under Guo Xiaohan's head, he looked at the still-sleeping Guo Xiaohan and couldn't help but smile gently.

He liked this silly girl so much.

Lifting the blanket, Guo Xiaohan's perfect figure was immediately exposed to the air.

Perhaps it was this action that startled her awake. She groggily opened her eyes and couldn't help but hug Lin Haoran.

Half-asleep, she instinctively snuggled against him, her cheek pressed against his warm skin, letting out a soft, satisfied sigh.

Morning light streamed through the gaps in the heavy curtains, casting a thin band of light on the carpet.

At nine o'clock, he and Guo Xiaohan needed to take a ferries from the Central Ferry Pier to Shenzhen. The leaders of Shenzhen would definitely be there to greet him at Shekou Port. It wouldn't be appropriate to arrive too late.

Lin Haoran patted Guo Xiaohan's smooth back with lingering satisfaction, his voice carrying a hint of languid contentment: "Alright, if you don't get up now, you'll really miss the appointed time."

Guo Xiaohan slumped into his arms, barely able to lift a finger. Her cheeks were flushed, and she mumbled softly, "It's all your fault, there wasn't enough time..."

Her tone was half reproachful and half coquettish.

Lin Haoran chuckled softly, and got up from the bed in a very good mood: "Get up and wash up quickly, I'll wait for you downstairs for breakfast."

He quickly dressed, glanced back at the little woman lying in bed, and then went into the bathroom to wash up.

At 8:50, Lin Haoran, accompanied by Guo Xiaohan and 12 bodyguards, appeared at the Central Pier and boarded the wingboat owned by Hongkong Land Group.

Also arriving were some managers from the "Lin Haoran Charity Foundation".

Although this charitable foundation was only recently established, the team it recruited is among the world's top.

For example, Mr. Harvey, the current general manager of the charitable foundation, was previously the vice president of a large international charitable foundation. He is highly capable and experienced.

Mr. Harvey was an American man in his fifties, dressed in a well-fitting suit and wearing gold-rimmed glasses, exuding a calm and professional demeanor.

In the field of charitable foundations, Chinese people are not very good at it yet, and most of them are only involved in small-scale operations.

It's rare to find someone like Lin Haoran who donates hundreds of millions of Hong Kong dollars so readily in Hong Kong.

Furthermore, we need to further develop our philanthropic work in the future, so recruiting some capable talents is imperative.

Therefore, Lin Haoran could only set his sights on top international talents.

That's how they found Harvey.

Harvey was already waiting in the cabin. When he saw Lin Haoran and his group board the ship, he immediately stepped forward and bowed slightly: "Boss, Chairman Guo, good morning."

Everything is ready. All the details of the donation agreement have been verified, and the reception procedures in Shenzhen have been finalized.

Furthermore, our charitable foundation's team in mainland China has been confirmed. They will be stationed there permanently to provide ongoing professional support for our foundation's various operations in mainland China.

Lin Haoran nodded, expressing his satisfaction with Harvey's efficiency: "Well done, Mr. Harvey. A localized team is crucial to ensuring that our goodwill and funds are truly and efficiently implemented."

The foundation is the main player in this donation; please take extra care with the procedures.

"Please rest assured, boss. The team members we selected all have extensive experience in multinational projects and excellent local communication skills. They have a deep understanding of the policies, culture and social environment in mainland China."

Harvey responded confidently, handing over a thin folder: "These are the resumes and background summaries of the core members. Please take a look."

Lin Haoran took the folder but didn't open it immediately. Instead, he casually placed it aside, his tone gentle yet filled with unquestionable trust: "Leave professional matters to professionals. Since I've chosen you and the team you recommended, I will give them my full trust. Just handle the details."

These words caused a barely perceptible flicker of emotion to cross Harvey's eyes.

He had seen too many bosses who wanted to micromanage everything, and it was rare to find someone like Lin Haoran who had a clear strategic direction and was willing to delegate authority.

This further convinced him that his decision to join this emerging foundation was the right one.

"I will certainly live up to your trust." Harvey bowed slightly again, his attitude becoming even more respectful.

Soon, the wingboat slowly departed from the dock and accelerated towards Shekou Port on the opposite bank.

The view of Victoria Harbour rushed past the window.

He had just returned from Shenzhen 10 days ago, and his mood was very calm when he went there again this time.

This reminded him of Liu Xiaoli, the beautiful woman he had brought back to Hong Kong from the mainland ten days ago.

During this period, although he had not met the other party in person, he knew everything about the other party.

After Liu Xiaoli arrived in Hong Kong, his assistant helped her adapt to life there.

The subsequent arrangements have all been finalized.

It can be said that this famous "celestial mother" from her previous life is now sitting comfortably on the track he laid out for her, and basically, everything is under his control.

Her looks even surpass those of Guan Jiahui, so to say that Lin Haoran wasn't interested in her would be pure self-deception.

A playful smile played on Lin Haoran's lips.

Beauty, like wealth and power, is one of the most alluring resources in the world, and he never hides his appreciation and desire to possess beautiful things.

Just like with Guan Jiahui, he was unwilling to marry her, but also unwilling to let her go.

That's just how domineering he is.

Since Liu Xiaoli, this unpolished gem, had fallen into his hands by chance, he naturally had no reason to let her go.

However, it's not the right time yet; we need to patiently wait for the most opportune moment so that she can bloom willingly.

On the second floor of the flying ship, Lin Haoran and Guo Xiaohan sat on a comfortable sofa with some snacks and drinks on a small table in front of them.

Li Weidong and his bodyguards stood around, ready to guard against any potential dangers.

Guo Xiaohan seemed quite excited, glancing frequently at the increasingly close inland coastline outside the window; she was full of anticipation for this trip.

This was her first trip to the mainland, so her feelings were naturally different.

Moreover, she is currently going there as the chairperson of the "Lin Haoran Charity Foundation".

This was the first time Lin Haoran had brought her into the public eye, and although it was in mainland China, Guo Xiaohan was still very excited.

"Brother Haoran, I'm a little nervous and a little excited!" Guo Xiaohan's joyful voice pulled him back to reality from his brief reverie.

Lin Haoran could sense her excitement. He gently took her hand and chuckled softly, "Relax. Just think of it as a meaningful trip. When you meet the leaders of Pengcheng later, just be natural."

"Yes, Brother Haoran, I will definitely not let you down!" Guo Xiaohan nodded vigorously, took a deep breath, and tried to calm her racing heart, but the joy in her eyes was still undeniable.

For her, this was not only a charity event, but also an important step in officially entering Lin Haoran's social circle as his future partner.

Lin Haoran, on the other hand, appeared much calmer.

He looked out the window, seemingly admiring the sea view, but his mind was racing.

In Hong Kong, the stock exchange should be opening soon.

I wonder how much Hutchison Whampoa's stock price has risen?

Did Dai Shi's shopping spree go smoothly?
However, being at sea at this moment, he was unable to inquire about things in Hong Kong.

Of course, he wasn't in a hurry.

"Brother Haoran, look! We're almost there!" Guo Xiaohan pointed ahead excitedly.

Lin Haoran composed himself, a perfectly timed smile appearing on his face, and took Guo Xiaohan's arm.

The wingboat docked smoothly.

The cabin door opened, and Lin Haoran stepped steadily onto the land of Pengcheng.

At the dock, the welcoming team stepped forward enthusiastically, and the flashbulbs of camera lights flashed everywhere.

"Mr. Lin, Ms. Guo, welcome, welcome!" The leaders from Pengcheng warmly stepped forward and shook hands.

After all, Lin Haoran's purpose in coming here was to donate HK$100 million to Pengcheng University, which is currently in the process of being established!
This huge sum of money is undoubtedly a timely help for Shenzhen, which is in the early stages of reform and opening up and where all industries are waiting to be developed, especially in the field of education.

It not only greatly alleviates the financial pressure in the early stages of university establishment, but also represents the high recognition and confidence of the outside world, especially Hong Kong, which is rich in capital, in the future development potential of Shenzhen.

Therefore, Shenzhen officials treated them with the utmost courtesy.

At the dock, in addition to the main city leaders, there were several officials in charge of education and culture, as well as core members of the Pengcheng University preparatory group, making for a truly grand gathering.

"You're too kind, leaders. We are truly honored to have you personally greet us. It is our honor and a testament to our confidence in the future development of Pengcheng, as we are able to contribute our modest efforts to the education cause in Pengcheng." Lin Haoran smiled and shook hands firmly with the leaders, his tone humble.

His words were just right, expressing goodwill while also praising the other party, which made the smiles of the Shenzhen officials present even more sincere.

Guo Xiaohan, who was standing nearby, immediately beamed with joy when she heard Lin Haoran mention "my wife and I".

She tried her best to maintain a dignified demeanor, but the smile that radiated from her eyes and brows was impossible to hide.

The fact that Lin Haoran personally uttered this title on such a formal and solemn occasion was undoubtedly the clearest affirmation and the most solemn introduction of her identity.

She straightened her back slightly, feeling that the sweetness had eased much of her tension.

Guo Xiaohan also spoke up, saying, "Hello, leaders. I am Guo Xiaohan, Lin Haoran's wife, and also the head of the Lin Haoran Charity Foundation."

She was elegant and poised, perfectly embodying the roles of foundation chairperson and Lin Haoran's partner.

After a simple welcoming ceremony, everyone boarded the convoy and headed to the preparatory office of Pengcheng University.

Outside the car window, the bustling construction scene of Shenzhen in the 1980s unfolded.

(End of this chapter)