Chen Fan looked at the unfamiliar number on his screen. Tong Yan, Editor-in-Chief of Urban Economic News? He remembered that name clearly. Tong Yan was a powerful woman in the financial media world in his past life, wielding significant influence.
He curled his lips. His luck was on the rise.
"Hello, Editor-in-Chief Tong. It's a pleasure to receive your call," Chen Fan replied courteously.
Tong Yan's voice on the other end of the line held a hint of surprise, then she chuckled softly: "Oh, Mr. Chen is indeed a sharp one. You know who I am?"
"Your name in the financial world, I'm afraid, is known by all," Chen Fan said. "May I ask what brings Ms. Tong to call me?"
"Being direct is good, then," Tong Yan laughed. "I'd like to meet you. We can discuss a long-term collaboration opportunity. Are you free this afternoon? I'd like to treat you to an intimate lunch at Nine Dragons Restaurant."
Nine Dragons Restaurant was one of the city's most upscale establishments, where only people of status could make reservations. Tong Yan wanted to make an impression.
"Alright," Chen Fan accepted the invitation. "2 PM this afternoon, Nine Dragons Restaurant. I'll be there on time."
"I look forward to meeting you," Tong Yan said, her voice filled with excitement.
Hanging up, Chen Fan pondered. Tong Yan's invitation was certainly not just about writing articles. Perhaps she had seen great potential in him, or wanted to extract information he possessed. But either way, this was a good opportunity for him to expand his network and lay the groundwork for Heavenly Dao Group.
He wasted no time. He opened his laptop, starting to outline the preliminary structure of Heavenly Dao Group. The initial goal was to focus on digital asset management and AI software development. These were two areas where he could apply his "god-tier knowledge" to the fullest extent.
With 414 million VND in hand, he could rent a small office and recruit a few core personnel. Most importantly, he needed a capable manager to run the company while he still focused on cultivation and larger plans.
A trustworthy, capable person... Chen Fan thought of a name. Lin Yue!
She was the only one who had treated him well in his past life, and she was also in need of a job. Lin Yue was intelligent, meticulous, and had management experience, albeit only at a convenience store. More importantly, she had witnessed a part of his abilities, and he trusted her to be loyal.
Chen Fan picked up his phone and called Lin Yue.
"Hello, Brother Chen Fan?" Lin Yue's voice still held a hint of worry after last night's incident.
"Lin Yue, I have a job offer for you," Chen Fan went straight to the point. "I'm about to establish a company. I'd like to invite you to be the initial project manager. The starting salary is 15 million VND per month, plus a percentage of profits if the company performs well. Are you interested?"
Lin Yue was silent on the other end of the line. 15 million VND a month? This was a colossal sum for her, double her old salary at the convenience store.
"You... you're serious?" Lin Yue stammered, her voice trembling.
"Of course I'm serious. I wouldn't joke with you," Chen Fan said. "Moreover, this isn't just a job. This is an opportunity for you to start a new life, completely free from the shadow of debt."
Lin Yue took a deep breath. "I... I accept! Brother Chen, thank you!"
"Good. This afternoon, go to the business registration office on XYZ street; I'll wait for you there. We'll complete the company establishment procedures right away." Chen Fan had already researched locations and procedures online beforehand.
After hanging up, Chen Fan smiled. The first piece of the Heavenly Dao Group puzzle was in place. Having Lin Yue would save him a lot of initial time and effort.
He checked his watch. There was enough time to prepare for the meeting with Tong Yan.
Chen Fan changed into a luxurious suit. Although it was just an ordinary suit, with his enhanced physique and cultivation aura, he exuded a special confidence and demeanor, no longer the timid young man of yesteryear.
He knew this meeting would open many new doors.