Chapter 260: Auspicious Day

On the morning of June 21st, Xia Yu and his group got up early, each dressed formally. Today was the grand day of the establishment of the London Chinatown Chinese Business Association, and various high-profile figures were expected to attend. Naturally, Xia Yu wanted to make a good first impression.

"Vroom..."

Just as Xia Yu and the others were about to leave, the sound of car engines roared from afar, and then came the noise of braking and engines being turned off outside the door.

"Let's go, it should be Wu Hongyi who's arrived," Xia Yu said, leading his group out the door.

When they opened the door, they were met by Wu Hongyi, dressed in a suit and exuding a commanding presence.

"Hongyi, you're early. We were just about to come find you when you arrived, haha," Xia Yu said with a smile, to which Wu Hongyi responded with a grin.

"Let's go!" 

Yan Shining and Hou Sheng each drove a car, and the group of three cars headed towards downtown London.

Chinese culture is profound and diverse; whether celebrating a joyous or somber occasion, it is customary to select an auspicious date and time—what is known as picking a "lucky day." The establishment of the London Chinatown Chinese Business Association was a significant event for the Chinese community in London and even all of the UK, so choosing an auspicious time was essential. After much deliberation, 10:00 a.m. was selected as the best time.

Because the event wouldn't start until 10:00, Xia Yu was able to stay at home comfortably; otherwise, he would have stayed at a hotel.

Xia Yu had just returned yesterday, after about five days away from Chinatown. Upon his return, he noticed significant changes in the area.

New, bright red lanterns adorned the entrances of every shop, and the entire street had been meticulously cleaned. At the very center of Gerrard Street, a 6.6-meter-high stage had been erected, completely draped in red fabric.

These were just the physical changes.

As for the people, there were even more noticeable differences.

Gerrard Street was bustling with people, not only Chinese but also many Britons. The Chinese were dressed in festive formal attire, brimming with energy, exchanging greetings and well-wishes with everyone they met.

There were also large performance troupes on Gerrard Street, with dragon and lion dance teams parading up and down, accompanied by the beating of drums and gongs, creating a lively atmosphere. Many foreigners, witnessing such performances for the first time, were amazed and applauded continuously.

"Xia Yu, it's so lively!" 

Li Xi, holding onto Xia Yu's arm, looked around with her beautiful eyes, quietly whispering in his ear.

Despite being familiar with the touch of her soft embrace, Xia Yu still felt an overwhelming sense of delight. Hearing Li Xi's comment, he chuckled, "It hasn't even started yet; it'll get even livelier later on."

"Really? I'm looking forward to it!" 

Li Xi responded happily, her beautiful face reflecting a sense of anticipation, her eyes gleaming with hope.

"Xia Yu, let's get going; it's almost time. We should head in so as not to keep everyone waiting," Wu Hongyi said, glancing at his watch.

"Yeah, let's go!" 

Xia Yu nodded and followed Wu Hongyi towards a hotel near the stage. They first placed the flower baskets at the entrance, then stepped onto the red carpet and made their way towards the grand hall.

"Young Master Wu, congratulations and good fortune!"

"Young Master Wu, you're here; best wishes for prosperity!"

As they entered, they were greeted by numerous well-dressed individuals gathered in groups, chatting and laughing. But all of them kept an eye on the entrance, ready to welcome any important guests.

As soon as Wu Hongyi appeared, many people quickly approached with congratulations. Many others glanced at Xia Yu, holding Li Xi's hand, silently pondering his identity.

Yan Shining, Li Wuming, and the others, being further away from Xia Yu, quietly moved to the side upon entering, to avoid interfering with him. However, they still kept a close watch on Xia Yu's surroundings, ready to respond promptly to any incidents and ensure his safety.

"Let me introduce you all; this is my good friend Xia Yu, who recently came from Hong Kong. He's quite a business genius, and this is his girlfriend, Li Xi." 

Wu Hongyi introduced Xia Yu and Li Xi to the group around him.

Xia Yu quickly waved his hand and smiled, "I'm just a small businessman; don't take Hongyi's words too seriously. It's a pleasure to meet you all! Here's my business card, please keep it."

As he spoke, Xia Yu handed out business cards he had prepared in advance to those around him, and others quickly took out their own cards and handed them to Xia Yu, continuing to exchange pleasantries.

"Mr. Xia, pleased to meet you. I'm Liu Guilong from Shui Xing Trading Company; let's stay in touch."

"Mr. Xia, I'm Martin Long from Longsheng Department Store. I moved here from Hong Kong ten years ago; it's a pleasure to meet you."

Amidst the friendly exchanges, Xia Yu greeted everyone with a smile, while Wu Hongyi watched with satisfaction, happy for Xia Yu.

"Young Master Wu, you're here. The other directors are already inside, and Mayor Jones Jason of London will be arriving shortly. What do you think?" 

As the lively scene with Xia Yu drew attention from many, a person hurried over to speak with Wu Hongyi.

"Hongyi, you'd better get going; don't delay the important matters," Xia Yu suggested thoughtfully.

"Alright, I'll head over first and catch up with you later." 

Wu Hongyi said apologetically, then addressed the group, "Please look after Xia Yu for me; I have to step away."

"No problem, Young Master Wu."

Seeing this, Xia Yu smiled wryly, feeling even more fond of Wu Hongyi. It was clear that Wu truly valued their friendship, otherwise, he wouldn't have been so considerate.

After Wu Hongyi left, Xia Yu continued chatting with everyone around him. With his social skills, this gathering was a breeze to navigate.

Since many of the merchants at the event had visited Hong Kong in the past six months, they were well aware of the companies listed on Xia Yu's business card, such as "Jiuding Newspaper Company" and "Jiuding Securities Company." Recognizing his business prowess, they became even more enthusiastic in their interactions with him.

Among the attendees were many successful individuals, each possessing unique skills. Basic observational skills and keen insight were common traits. When they noticed something unusual in others' reactions, they quickly inquired why, and soon, news about Xia Yu spread quietly among the guests.

Naturally, more and more people approached Xia Yu, eager to make his acquaintance. Xia Yu's own impressive business capabilities far surpassed most of those present, and his close friendship with the Wu family's second young master made him all the more appealing.

This was precisely the result Xia Yu wanted, which is why he had prepared so many exquisite business cards the previous day.

A circle of well-read scholars and no common folk! 

To forge connections and earn respect, one must demonstrate value; otherwise, busy and important people wouldn't waste their precious time on someone without worth.