"Come, sit down. Tea, drinks, or wine? I have quite a wide selection," Jiang Hai said with a smile. He wasn't the type to lash out if someone glanced at his women, but he didn't tolerate lewd behavior. Fortunately, these guests knew how to restrain themselves. Jiang Hai simply spoke once and took his place at the head of a table that had been prepared in advance. The team members following him hesitated for a moment, then, remembering they weren't in China, casually took their seats.
Directors Lu and Li said nothing, as if their subordinates had already realized this wasn't China—Jiang Hai didn't need to defer to them, nor did they expect it. A true high-ranking official, regardless of upbringing, rarely flaunted arrogance. Their generation quietly earned their standing without seeking positions, and their calm expressions reflected that as they settled at the table.
Once everyone was seated, Jiang Hai addressed them. "I'm driving today. Damn it! Finally a chance to enjoy some wine, and I can't. Forget it—bring me tea." Mayor Wallis slapped his forehead in mock frustration. Since winning the award, Jiang Hai Manor's specialties had expanded from seafood and beef to include red wine. Particularly the beef stewed in red wine—an extraordinary pairing that elevated the flavors far beyond expectation. Mayor Wallis, formerly a clerk rather than a cowboy or fisherman, didn't usually enjoy strong liquor, but Jiang Hai's wine had left a lasting impression. Of course, he knew the wine was for sale, so he didn't ask for any—he simply came to enjoy a taste.
"Oh? Is the wine good, Brother Jiang? We haven't heard of it. We only know your beef and seafood are excellent," Wallis remarked. Deputy Director Li smiled in agreement. Director Lu, usually focused on high-level strategy rather than operational details, remained silent, while Deputy Director Li, rising from the grassroots, had come specifically to discuss matters with Jiang Hai.
Naturally, they didn't rely solely on a translator. Of the seven visitors, six had good English skills, only Director Lu lagging slightly. Four could communicate fluently with foreigners. Even though Mayor Wallis spoke quickly, they listened intently. Jiang Hai smiled softly, taking it all in.
"My wine… well, words don't guarantee it. Bring me a bottle!" Deputy Director Li said. Jiang Hai smiled. He wasn't trying to show off—though in this case, he might as well be, since these people couldn't trouble him. Aphra went to the nearby cold storage and returned with a bottle of red wine, while Hilda prepared goblets. Three declined: Mayor Wallis, the driver, and Director Lu.
"I'm not used to red wine. I heard Xiao Jiang mention tea—could you make some for me?" Director Lu said, pushing aside the goblet. "I drink tea regularly," he added to Jiang Hai. Jiang Hai nodded to Aphra, who brought a boiling kettle and carefully measured tea leaves into the cups Jiang Hai and Director Lu had provided.
"Hmm, that fragrance… Is this Longjing?" Director Lu murmured, studying the tea leaves. He inhaled deeply, and a flicker of surprise crossed his face. This was indeed Longjing, but the aroma surpassed even the best teas on the market. What was going on?
"Good eye, Director Lu! Try it," Jiang Hai said with a smile, motioning for Aphra to pour water. The water wasn't ordinary; it came from a spring in the Appalachian Mountains, filtered and chilled even in summer. The tea leaves were a select batch Jiang Hai had imported from China, enough for him to brew and impress his guests.
As the hot water infused the leaves, a rich, fragrant aroma filled the air, catching the attention of Deputy Director Li and the other tea connoisseurs. In such circles, tea was more than a beverage—it was a tradition, a subtle marker of sophistication and shared culture. China's early leaders had relied on tea as a primary drink, and the practice had endured. Among the seven visitors, four were true tea enthusiasts.
"May I try some?" Deputy Director Li asked. Jiang Hai nodded. After the first steep, which served to wash and awaken the leaves, everyone sipped the second brew. The effect was immediate. Director Lu and Deputy Director Li's eyes lit up. The tea was smooth, fragrant, and non-bitter, leaving a lingering, sweet aftertaste. It invigorated the mind and dispelled any lingering chill, making one feel refreshed and alert.
"This tea… exceptional!" Deputy Director Li exclaimed after a few moments. He had expected mediocre quality but was proven wrong. "Its quality rivals tribute tea, even surpassing it with subtle complexity. Xiao Jiang, your tea is truly remarkable," Director Lu added, his voice carrying deep respect.
Everyone paused, impressed. Director Lu had come with pressing domestic responsibilities, so his praise carried weight—Jiang Hai's tea was genuinely extraordinary.
"Hey, that's just some tea from my own plants. The wine's almost ready—give it a try. I usually prefer beer, but foreigners say my wine is excellent," Jiang Hai said with a grin, glancing at the nearly finished red wine. Hilda poured half glasses for everyone, mindful of local customs.
The wine drinkers took their sips, and their eyes widened in amazement. Though accustomed to all types of alcohol at countless banquets, Jiang Hai's wine surpassed both domestic and foreign wines. It was truly remarkable, a testament to his resources and taste.
With tea and wine shared, Jiang Hai and his guests felt closer, yet the visitors understood his offerings were far from ordinary.
"So, what brings you all here to see me?" Jiang Hai asked after a brief pause, moving to the point.
"Xiao Jiang, let's be frank. We're mainly here to buy land from you," Director Li said, hesitating slightly before speaking. Jiang Hai's brow furrowed immediately.
(To be continued.)