Chapter 18: Rising Through the Ranks

Li Yang's victory at the poker table propelled him into the upper echelons of the Phoenix Group. His newfound stature was not merely symbolic; he was soon entrusted with major responsibilities and tasks crucial to the conglomerate's interests. Within weeks, he found himself seated at board meetings, his opinions sought after and his decisions carrying weight.

However, with great power came great scrutiny. Every move he made, every deal he brokered, was watched closely by both allies and rivals. His rapid rise had made some in the group wary, questioning his intentions and loyalties. Yet, Li Yang remained unfazed. He was determined to prove his worth, to show that he was more than just the man who won a high-stakes poker game.

As he delved deeper into the intricacies of corporate governance, Li Yang also began interacting with the group's top brass. These were individuals who wielded immense power, not just within the Phoenix Group, but across the business landscape. Each interaction was a lesson, every conversation a window into the world of corporate politics and strategy.

And then there was Lan Xi.

Despite the competitive nature of their previous encounter, their relationship remained intact. The bond they shared was not easily broken by a mere game, no matter how high the stakes. They found themselves crossing paths frequently, both professionally and personally. Their conversations, once filled with casual banter, now carried undertones of deeper meanings, unspoken emotions, and unsaid confessions.

Outside the boardroom, in the quiet corridors and secluded balconies of the Phoenix Group's towering skyscraper, they would steal moments. Moments of solace, away from prying eyes, away from the weight of their responsibilities. It was in these fleeting instances that they truly connected, expressing in hushed tones their hopes, fears, and dreams.

Yet, the corporate world is not one for fairy tales. The reality of their positions and the expectations from them meant they had to tread carefully. Both understood that their personal relationship could be perceived as a potential conflict of interest. But such is the nature of love; it finds a way, even in the most unexpected of places.

As the days turned into weeks, and weeks into months, Li Yang's position within the Phoenix Group solidified. He had successfully navigated the treacherous waters of corporate politics, earning the respect of his peers and superiors. But in his heart, he knew that the real victory was not in the boardroom accolades or the power plays. It was in the quiet moments with Lan Xi, in the whispered conversations, and in the unbreakable bond they shared.