Chapter Ninety-Two: The Cat That Tasted Fishy

Liu Jingye rode his motorcycle, trailing Zhang He’s car at a steady distance as they traveled together along the national highway.

Ningyuan County was not far from the city—a mere half hour’s drive. It was also the place where Secretary-General Zhao Xue’an had once served as the chief official, his old stronghold, so he paid it special attention. Most of the local officials there were his protégés or former subordinates, who revered him almost as a deity.

“Hello, the Secretary-General might come tonight, or he might not. In any case, you should be prepared,” Zhang He said on the phone, informing the next stop in their itinerary. Liu Jingye, thanks to his cheap bug, could hear the call clearly enough.

“For lunch, four dishes and a soup. No pangolin today, and no giant salamander either. Keep it light—shark fin and bird’s nest porridge will do. Also, put the Maotai in mineral water bottles and be discreet. Don’t make a scene,” Zhang He instructed, arranging Zhao Xue’an’s lunch. Liu Jingye clicked his tongue in disbelief. “Pangolin, giant salamander—those are all protected species! The ordinary people don’t need to be told to protect animals; only those who shout about animal protection ever get to eat such things.”

“And pangolin meat isn’t even that good. Five-step snake is the most fragrant,” Liu Jingye muttered to himself as he rode, recalling his own experience, not for pleasure but for survival in the jungle.

Along the way, Zhang He made several calls, almost all about Zhao Xue’an’s daily needs. He even called Zhao Xue’an’s wife to remind her that there might be an undercover inspection from the authorities soon, so she should watch her words and actions.

“He really works his heart out for Zhao Xue’an!” Liu Jingye chuckled to himself. “Actually, the person closest to Zhao Xue’an is his driver. The secretary only handles official business, but the driver is involved in every aspect of his life and is with him every day. He knows Zhao Xue’an best, and his position is as influential as the head steward in a nobleman’s house, wielding borrowed power and reaping the rewards.”

Liu Jingye kept up the pursuit, his little motorcycle darting along swiftly, always within listening range. Zhang He’s calls all revolved around Zhao Xue’an’s routine, and nothing sensitive was discussed—until they crossed into Ningyuan County. Then Zhang He made another call.

“Hello, Zhao Xue’an has been in a bad mood lately, troubled by many things. You need to comfort him,” Zhang He said. “He still likes and trusts you, so don’t let him down.”

Liu Jingye couldn’t hear the reply, but Zhang He’s grandiose tone made it clear—he was just arranging for Zhao Xue’an’s entertainment. Liu Jingye felt nothing but contempt. He heard Zhang He continue, “I’ll let you know the time and place tonight. Remember, wear men’s clothes, sunglasses, and a hat. Don’t draw attention. If you can stick on a little mustache, even better.”

“Cautious and thorough, indeed,” Liu Jingye remarked, surprised. “The driver really has it tough!”

Besides arranging Zhao Xue’an’s affairs, Zhang He also received several calls—some asking for favors, some from family. One call in particular caught Liu Jingye’s attention. The driver was especially courteous, promising faithfully to report the matter to Zhao Xue’an and get back to the caller. During the conversation, he mentioned “Beiyuan Village”—his own hometown.

“Could that be about me? Or have they found Chen Yuxin’s trail from yesterday?” Liu Jingye wondered silently.

Once in Ningyuan County, the car headed straight into the government compound’s courtyard but did not stop. Liu Jingye waited outside a small shop, sipping beer and watching idly.

Soon, Zhao Xue’an emerged, surrounded by a crowd like stars orbiting the moon. It was the first time Liu Jingye saw the Secretary-General in person, rather than on television. He looked older in real life, but still elegant and commanding in his white shirt and black trousers, hair immaculately combed.

Zhao Xue’an was heading to the county’s investment bureau for an inspection. As he got into the car, his first words were, “These bastards have no sense of protocol anymore. They actually arranged for me to stay at the guesthouse. It’s all because of those rumors online. They’re trying to distance themselves from me, all thanks to that wretched Chen Yuxin.”

“Those posts have been deleted, and Chen Yuxin was intercepted and didn’t make it to the capital. There won’t be any more trouble,” Zhang He assured him. “As for these people, why stoop to their level? They’re just opportunists.”

“I’m furious!” Zhao Xue’an fumed. “If it weren’t for the current scrutiny and lack of suitable replacements, I’d have replaced them all by now.”

“Please calm down. You’ve already been promoted, and you’re a top contender for the top job in the region. Once the storm passes, they’ll be bowing to you again,” Zhang He consoled him.

“Ah, that’s the bureaucracy,” Zhao Xue’an sighed. “But you’re the most reliable. Still, I can’t selfishly keep you by my side forever. We’re going to the county investment bureau now. I hear there’s a vacant section chief post—I plan to place you there.”

“What?” Zhang He exclaimed, clearly taken aback. “Secretary Zhao, this…”

“Don’t get too excited. When I move up, I’ll have other plans for you. For now, just take this position as a stepping stone for your future promotions.”

“Yes, thank you, Secretary Zhao. I’ll do my utmost.” Zhang He pledged his loyalty at once. “Oh, by the way, I’ve already arranged for the shark fin and bird’s nest porridge. It’ll be delivered soon to help cool your temper. I’ve also spoken to your wife, and she’ll be coming this evening.”

“Alright, noted,” Zhao Xue’an replied nonchalantly, but his laughter revealed a deeper satisfaction.

“By the way, Mr. Huang called just now,” Zhang He suddenly said, immediately causing Zhao Xue’an’s demeanor to turn serious. “What did he say?”

“It’s still about the inn in Beiyuan Village. He’s lost another man there. He can’t figure out how deep that person’s background goes and wants your advice,” Zhang He explained.

“So it’s about me!” Liu Jingye was startled on his motorcycle nearby. “Mr. Huang—that must be Huang Guangzong. Losing another man must refer to that ninja from yesterday.”

There was a heavy silence in the car. After a long moment, Zhao Xue’an spoke in a low voice, “This person is indeed not simple. A few days ago, our fourth man also suffered at his hands, and he’s protecting Chen Yuxin, which is a lingering threat. Since that’s the case, we’ll take official action. When I return tomorrow, I’ll inform the commerce, tax, land, and fire departments to organize a joint inspection of rural enterprises…”

“Damn, that’s ruthless!” Liu Jingye cursed inwardly. “That’s power for you! Even if there’s nothing wrong, they’ll find something. You’re really forcing my hand!”

At last, Liu Jingye saw their true colors and steeled himself for action, waiting patiently for the right moment.

He followed them as they made their rounds. When they left the investment bureau, Zhao Xue’an was all smiles, clearly pleased with how things had gone and with the deference shown by his subordinates.

Zhang He’s grin was even wider. With a single word from Zhao Xue’an, he would transform overnight from a mere driver to a mid-level official—a position many could never achieve in a lifetime.

At noon, Zhao Xue’an went to the county guesthouse, declining all company except Zhang He. The meal was catered from the city, and in the afternoon, Zhao Xue’an didn’t go out again but returned to his local residence.

Though he called it home, it was in truth a private villa, rarely used—a secret base of sorts. The neighborhood was tranquil, nestled beside an artificial lake and lush woods.

“Time to climb another tree,” Liu Jingye muttered, parking his motorcycle far away and slipping quietly into the woods. He found a good vantage point and climbed a tall tree, using his newly purchased binoculars to keep watch on the house. The distance was close enough for a clear view.

Zhao Xue’an had come for a nap. After seeing to his needs, Zhang He drove off to handle the formalities for his new post.

Liu Jingye settled in for a long wait, motionless for the entire afternoon—so still that birds landed beside him without fear.

Around five o'clock, Zhang He returned in the car but didn’t get out. Instead, a sharply dressed figure in a suit, with a hat and sunglasses, emerged from the passenger seat. At first glance, the person looked like a man, but Liu Jingye could tell from the gait that it was a woman.

“So, a woman finally appears, even in disguise. Cautious, as expected.”

He watched as the woman went upstairs, carrying a small box that looked like a lunch container, while Zhang He drove away.

Soon, Zhao Xue’an opened the door and welcomed her inside. Since the villa was detached, with no neighboring buildings, they didn’t bother closing the curtains—giving Liu Jingye a perfect view.

“You must have had a lot on your mind lately. You’ve lost weight and seem exhausted. Come, let me give you a massage,” the woman said as she entered, setting down the box and inviting Zhao Xue’an to sit while she gently massaged his temples.

Though he had no bug in place, Liu Jingye could read their lips well enough to follow the conversation.

“How does that feel? Better?” the woman asked.

“Very comfortable. You’re the most thoughtful of all,” Zhao Xue’an replied, eyes closed, savoring her touch.

“There are dumplings in the box—I made them myself. Eat them while they’re hot,” she said gently.

They seemed like a long-married couple, calm and intimate, caring for each other with quiet understanding.

“At this age and in such a position, a man has seen it all,” Liu Jingye murmured. “They’re no longer interested in young beauties; they prefer a woman’s warmth and understanding, seeking emotional fulfillment instead.”

The woman stayed to eat dumplings with Zhao Xue’an, like a family meal. She took off her hat, letting her wavy hair fall over her shoulders. She looked about thirty-four or thirty-five, not especially beautiful, but exuding a gentle, virtuous aura.

But as night fell and dinner was done, this gentle woman revealed her wild side. She was truly the kind who could be dignified in public and passionate in private—a woman who understood men’s hearts and knew exactly what they needed and when.

…

The weather was hot; it was again the season when silk dresses clung to most women. With trepidation, your humble author announces that, with the next chapter, this book will officially be launched as a VIP title. If you’ve enjoyed the story and my writing, I hope you’ll support me—if you can spare some change, please do; if not, perhaps fetch a little from home and show your support anyway. Every little bit counts, and I’ll be forever grateful for your kindness.