The Arrival of the Second Heroine

On the second day, the second heroine, Chu Ruoxue, arrived at Lin's Investment Company with her team.

As the host, Lin Beifan warmly welcomed her, saying, "Haha! Welcome, welcome, Mr. Chu! Your presence truly illuminates my humble establishment!"

Chu Ruoxue responded with a bright smile, "Thank you for your warm welcome. Please forgive me for the intrusion."

Her demeanor was elegant and captivating, devoid of any trace of unruliness. After all, in the cutthroat world of business, it was essential to conceal one's true nature and maintain a polite facade.

"Ms Chu, allow me to introduce you to..." Lin Beifan began, proceeding to introduce each member of the company's investment team, from the president to the vice president to the managers.

Chu Ruoxue shot Lin Beifan a pointed look. "It seems you're doing quite well for yourself," she remarked dryly.

In the world of business, there are unwritten rules for receptions. Failing to adhere to these rules can lead to chaos and diminish one's credibility.

Directly engaging with Chu Ruoxue as Lin Beifan did indicated that she had already secured a prominent position within her company and wielded genuine influence.

"Ah, it's nothing special," Lin Beifan chuckled modestly.

Although he still held the title of vice president, his outstanding performance and influential background had effectively elevated him to the top position within Lin's Investment Company.

"It's quite breezy outside, Mr. Chu. Please, come inside," Lin Beifan gestured warmly, inviting Chu Ruoxue and her team into the building.

As everyone settled into the conference hall, Chu Ruoxue spoke up hesitantly after a sip of tea, "I'm here this time to seek some funding from you."

It wasn't her first choice to approach Lin Beifan, known as a playboy, but desperate times called for desperate measures. With the global economy in recession and banks tightening their lending criteria, borrowing had become exceptionally challenging for businesses.

The real estate industry, in particular, was feeling the squeeze. Belvedere Group, specializing in real estate development with a focus on comprehensive supermarkets, was no exception. Now, with the economy downturn affecting their cash flow, they were facing significant challenges in their capital chain.

Chu Ruoxue had been grappling with financial worries for days, and upon encountering Lin Beifan the night before, she saw an opportunity. Knowing that he was currently involved in investments and likely had access to funds, she decided to pay him a visit.

"Ah, I see," Lin Beifan nodded, having anticipated Chu Ruoxue's request.

In the original book, Chu Ruoxue faced this problem months later when the economic situation had deteriorated even further. It was the male protagonist, Ye Xingchen, who ultimately came to her aid secretly. While posing as her bodyguard, he utilized his own capital and influence to help her overcome the financial difficulties. This classic plotline involved a mix of assistance, confrontation with the antagonist, and ultimately winning over the heroine's heart.

However, before this plotline could unfold, Lin Beifan intervened. At that time, Lin Beifan was already quite wealthy. Without hesitation, he offered billions of dollars to help Chu Ruoxue's company through its troubles, effectively derailing the storyline that was supposed to involve Ye Xingchen's intervention.

"How much do you need to borrow?" Lin Beifan asked without hesitation.

Chu Ruoxue replied urgently, "We only need 1 billion in funds to revitalize our capital chain! As for the loan interest, we can calculate it based on the current bank loan rates and add an additional percentage point!"

Lin Beifan tapped his fingers on the table, lost in thought. Sensing his seriousness, Chu Ruoxue glanced at him discreetly, her heart growing heavier with each passing moment.

"In my opinion, 1 billion in funds won't solve many problems," Lin Beifan finally spoke up.

Chu Ruoxue was taken aback. "What do you mean?" she asked, intrigued by his analysis.

Lin Beifan explained earnestly, "Given the current global economic recession, everyone is facing financial constraints. For industries like yours, especially in real estate, which relies heavily on capital, the situation is even more dire. A mere 1 billion in capital might not make a significant impact. It's akin to patching one hole while another one opens elsewhere."

Chu Ruoxue couldn't help but smile bitterly. "It's still better than facing bankruptcy," she remarked resignedly.

How could Chu Ruoxue not be aware of the dire situation? It was simply unavoidable.

In the current economic climate, everyone was tightening their belts, and the competition revolved around who could endure the longest. Despite the harsh realities of the cold winter, there remained a glimmer of hope. However, if one couldn't weather the storm, it spelled doom.

Suddenly, Lin Beifan interjected, "Does your Belvedere Group own a piece of land in Jiangnan?"

Chu Ruoxue was taken aback. "Yes, we do. Why do you ask?"

"I'm quite interested in that land," Lin Beifan admitted with a smile. "How about selling it to me?"

"You... want to buy that land?" Chu Ruoxue was astonished.

Lin Beifan shrugged. "Why not?"

Chu Ruoxue shook her head firmly. "To be honest, you really can't."

Lin Beifan raised an eyebrow. "And why is that?"

"Because you don't have enough money!" Chu Ruoxue stated bluntly. "We acquired that land for over 6 billion yuan. Even if we were to sell it to you now, it would cost at least 5 billion yuan. Do you have that kind of money?"