Chapter 57

David Juan drove his Ford F150 to lead the way, with Andrew following in a rented Mercedes driven by White.

As the car passed through Santa Barbara, they went by the Santa Barbara Courthouse, renowned for being the nation's tallest, most historic, and most beautiful office building. The Spanish Revival-style building, surrounded by lush lawns and various trees, stood out with its bright white walls and red roofs against the backdrop of the blue sky and greenery.

After about 30 minutes of driving, Yang Cheng found the journey remarkably pleasant, the picturesque scenery refreshing his eyes. His longing to ride a good horse beneath the blue sky and white clouds intensified.

Navigating through the mountainous terrain, the team encountered a sudden haze, obscuring the vision. Yang Cheng, momentarily concerned, soon realized it was a transient fog, likely a result of recent rain in the valley.

Upon reaching the mountain's summit, David Juan pulled over, inviting Yang Cheng to take in the breathtaking view. The landscape, featuring undulating hills, a clear lake, vineyards, and grazing sheep and horses, resembled a heavenly paradise.

David Juan, without uttering a word, got back into his car, signaling the resumption of their journey. Unfortunately, the resumption dampened Yang Cheng's enthusiasm for the scenic beauty.

The drive continued, passing through oaks and descending into a lush green valley. The fairy-tale-like setting, complete with sheep and wandering horses, captivated Yang Cheng's imagination.

Ten minutes later, the Mercedes-Benz reached another hilltop and stopped in front of a rock-made villa. In contrast to the stunning scenery, the villa appeared desolate, with withered trees and overgrown weeds in the front garden.

Entering the villa, Yang Cheng felt an unexplained unease. The Indian and modern architectural fusion, adorned with abstract patterns of animals, created a distinct atmosphere. The living room, styled in typical American pastoral fashion, featured a hunter motif, completing the unique ambiance.

Without much delay, they bypassed the atrium and entered the living room, where David Juan was waiting. He made a casual remark about serving only coffee.

Yang Cheng, sitting down without hesitation, observed the terrace outside, complete with beach chairs, an outdoor barbecue area, and an infinity pool overlooking the green valley. The beauty of the ranch surpassed words.

David Juan, now less fierce without his cowboy hat, sat across from Yang Cheng. After some pleasantries, Yang Cheng praised the ranch's beauty, initially suggesting that $32 million was beyond his budget. However, he quickly offered $30 million, urging immediate payment.

David Juan, initially angry, hesitated and shook his head, suggesting that $30 million was too little.

Yang Cheng proposed a strategy to David Juan, suggesting that he would match any competing offer and add an extra $1 million. David Juan, torn by the knowledge that another bidder offered $27 million, found himself in a difficult situation. Despite a moment of hesitation, he understood that a higher price would be the best choice.

Yang Cheng gave David Juan time to reflect and explore the ranch alone. Taking advantage of this, Yang Cheng asked White to guide him through the villa, outlining plans for renovations and expansions after the acquisition. Yang Cheng envisioned a luxurious space, complete with a redesigned villa and enhanced facilities, expressing his desire to move in by the summer of 2015.

Discussions continued about the golf course, wildlife, and potential improvements. Yang Cheng's enthusiasm for transforming the ranch was contagious, involving everyone in the planning process.

Returning to the living room, Yang Cheng found David Juan sitting still, seemingly lost in thought. Not one to wait, Yang Cheng asked about his decision. After a few silent seconds, David Juan, with a sense of defeat, inquired about the arrival of the $30 million.

Yang Cheng assured him it would arrive before midnight the next day. David Juan, with a heavy sigh, acknowledged the deal. Yang Cheng, leaving the procedural details to White, declared his departure to Rio and instructed to contact him if needed.

Leaving the ranch with Hansen and Andrew, Yang Cheng's next stop was Rio. Shortly after, Miranda Kerr, having just arrived in Santa Barbara, joined him on Yuanshan. The two shared a passionate kiss. As Yuanshan took off once again, Yang Cheng, gazing at the clouds from the window, felt an unexplained sense of unease.