Red and White Roses

During his student days, Murong Feng was outstanding. He was a member of the Student Executive Committee at Northern University and a recipient of the highest student honor, the May Fourth Medal. On campus, he was a rising star, full of youthful vigor and brilliant talent. It was no surprise that Zhao Nian, the campus beauty of the Guanghua Management School, fell for him at first sight. If not for the family incident before graduation, Murong Feng might have followed in the footsteps of many of his senior classmates from the Chinese Department at Northern University and entered the political arena.

But reality was different. He couldn't participate in the national government selection process and spent the next few years struggling in the turbulent seas of society, blending into the masses. Without Zhao Nian's departure and his sudden lottery win, he might have continued to sink, completely forgetting the glory of his student days.

Fate is unpredictable. As the saying goes, when God closes a door, He always opens a window.

The China Young Entrepreneurs Association (CYEA) is a national youth entrepreneur organization under the leadership of the Central Committee of the Communist Youth League. The honorary president is the vice-chairman of the National People's Congress and the vice-chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference. The president is the executive secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Youth League. The advisory board includes heads of over 30 central and state agencies and renowned economists.

The Beijing Federation of Industry and Commerce was even more influential, being the local group of the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce, known as the "China Chamber of Commerce." One of the constituent units of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference.

Holding the invitation letters, Murong Feng was filled with emotion. Although the "French home-cooked meal" at Flo Brasserie was somewhat simple, the French, who were naturally passionate and romantic, had imbued the original meaning of "brasserie" with a relaxed, carefree style. The view from the terrace on the second floor was beautiful.

With the evening breeze gently caressing and candlelight flickering, the French violinist in his tailcoat played a melodious tune. Enjoying a glass of Château Margaux wine, Murong Feng was in a very pleasant mood.

After telling Tang Qing about receiving the invitations, she was quite surprised. She gave Murong Feng a detailed introduction to CYEA and the Federation of Industry and Commerce. These two organizations were among the most influential in the domestic business community. Although they are essentially semi-official, CYEA is under the Central Committee of the Communist Youth League, and the Federation of Industry and Commerce is a significant component of the CPPCC. If Murong Feng truly joined these associations, it would greatly enhance his social status!

Tang Qing naturally suggested that Murong Feng join and advised him to actively participate in various association activities to make friends. As Tang Qing put it, "This is a form of political capital!"

CYEA often organizes economic and trade activities such as the "Northeast Asia Youth Entrepreneurs Development Forum" and the "Youth Entrepreneurs Business Negotiation Meeting in Hong Kong," helping its members grow and develop. The Federation of Industry and Commerce has various industry chambers, participation in political consultations, recommendations for political appointments of business leaders, and connections with business associations in Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, and abroad. These activities and responsibilities have significant social influence. If Murong Feng could stand out in these circles, it would undoubtedly have an immeasurable impact on his future development.

Murong Feng listened to Tang Qing's detailed introduction, shook his head, and smiled, "Janney, you really are amazing. Luckily, I have your guidance. Otherwise, I'd be completely in the dark about these political matters."

Tang Qing gave him a playful look and smiled, "You just know how to squeeze out my remaining value! But, considering tonight's dinner, I won't hold it against you!" Her eyes were full of charm, making her irresistible in the gentle summer breeze.

Tang Qing then curiously asked, "You said Wang Ruoyun helped you with the Federation of Industry and Commerce. What about CYEA? Such a prestigious organization wouldn't invite you to join for no reason."

Murong Feng laughed, "I was puzzled too. Maybe it's because of the charity auction reports. They probably think I'm a kind-hearted young entrepreneur with a sense of social responsibility." He praised himself, but Tang Qing gave him a beautiful side-eye and said, "Don't flatter yourself. These semi-official organizations don't invite people without recommendations. Many apply and get rejected!"

After pondering for a while without finding an answer, Murong Feng smiled, "Anyway, it's a good thing. I'll find out once I join." Tang Qing nodded, "Yes, new members usually have welcome activities. You'll know then."

After a delightful dinner, Tang Qing wanted to find a place to have a drink with Murong Feng, but he claimed he had other things to attend to. Though she seemed fine on the surface, she felt a bit upset, knowing he was going to pick up Ye Zi. Recently, Ye Zi often worked late, and Murong Feng, worried, would pick her up every night to take her back to her apartment.

As she drove on the Second Ring Road, Tang Qing received a call from her third brother.

"If you have time this weekend, the old man wants you to bring Murong Feng home." Her third brother's voice was always steady, without any emotion.

Tang Qing's heart suddenly sank. She didn't ask how her brother and the old man knew about Murong Feng. If they didn't know who she was associating with, the Tang family wouldn't be one of the most influential families in China.

But why would the old man want her to bring Murong Feng home? No matter how she thought about it, it seemed strange.