Chapter 26: Talking Too Much Makes You Foolish!

Liu Rumei was thrilled.

It wasn't that she had never seen so much money before, but she had never witnessed such an astonishing return on investment!

They had only invested 4 million, and in less than an hour, the value had skyrocketed to 60 million—more than ten times the initial cost!

And most importantly, this was real money!

"Sell it! Let's cash out first, and then we can show off!" Liu Rumei said excitedly.

But Lin Beifan remained calm. "No rush."

The wish he had just made was for the stone's price to increase twentyfold. Right now, it was only at 60 million—there was still room for another 20 million in profit. So, he wasn't in a hurry.

Just then, a voice rang out from the crowd.

"I'll offer 80 million!"

Everyone was stunned.

They turned their heads and saw an elderly man in a traditional Tang suit approaching, leaning on a dragon-headed cane.

Despite his gray hair, he exuded an air of authority.

Beside him stood a young man in his twenties, attentively following behind him, catering to his every need.

As soon as the crowd recognized him, they instinctively stepped aside, showing deep respect.

"Huang Lao! You're here!"

"Old Huang, what brings you here today?"

"Old Huang!"

…

Clearly, he was a highly influential figure.

Lin Beifan immediately recognized him—Huang Jinbai, a renowned jeweler from Mohai City.

His family had been in the gold and jewelry business for generations, especially excelling in jade and gold. Their company had expanded nationwide, with hundreds of stores and a legacy spanning over a century.

Huang Jinbai himself was the third-generation successor of this prestigious family.

Despite his wealth, he remained humble, kind, and generous. His reputation in Mohai City was unparalleled—even Lin Beifan's father showed him great respect.

Lin Beifan greeted him politely, "Hello, Mr. Huang."

Huang Jinbai walked closer, scrutinizing Lin Beifan before slightly furrowing his brows.

"You look a little familiar, young man..."

Lin Beifan smiled. "My father is Lin Nanshan. I'm his son, Lin Beifan."

Huang Jinbai's expression lit up with realization.

"Ah! So that's it! No wonder you looked like an old friend! How is your father doing these days?"

"He's in good health and currently doing business abroad," Lin Beifan replied.

"That's good! Health is the greatest wealth in life!" Huang Jinbai chuckled before turning his attention to the freshly cut jade. His gaze sharpened as he examined it carefully.

His voice trembled slightly with excitement.

"This is an exquisite piece of jade! I haven't seen such a high-quality stone in years! It's perfect for carving a Buddha statue!"

He took a deep breath and declared, "This stone alone is worth 80 million! But since you're the son of an old friend, I'll add another 10 million!"

Gasps filled the air.

"Another 10 million?! That price is insane!"

"90 million is way too high! At best, this jade is worth 80 million!"

"Didn't you hear? Old Huang is obviously giving him a favor!"

"Turning 4 million into 90 million in one go... I'm so jealous!"

…

Meanwhile, Ye Xingchen, who had remained silent throughout, felt his face darken.

Lin Beifan quickly interjected, "There's no need, 80 million is plenty!"

"It's fine!" Huang Jinbai laughed heartily. "Consider the extra 10 million a gift from an old man like me! Now, take the money, and I'll take the jade. Hahaha!"

His decisiveness was refreshing.

The young man beside him promptly requested Lin Beifan's account details and completed the transfer.

Moments later, the bank notification chimed.

Liu Rumei was still in a daze.

"Am... am I dreaming?"

Lin Beifan rolled his eyes. "Of course not! We spent 4 million and made 90 million back! That's a twentyfold return!"

"Hmm!" Liu Rumei nodded enthusiastically.

Lin Beifan grinned. "Mei Niang, how about we renegotiate?"

"For what?"

"Give me more control over the funds. I want to buy another stone!" he said, rubbing his hands in anticipation.

Under normal circumstances, Liu Rumei would have refused outright.

But after seeing such massive profits, she hesitated.

"...Fine. But no more than 10 million!"

"What a generous and charming lady!"

Excited, Lin Beifan resumed picking stones.

At that moment, he glanced at Ye Xingchen—who looked utterly defeated—and beckoned him over.

"Brother Ye, come here!"

Ye Xingchen, still drowning in regret, snapped out of his daze. "President Lin, what is it?"

Lin Beifan patted his shoulder with a bright smile.

"Brother Ye, I have you to thank for this huge profit! If not for your suggestion, I wouldn't have come here to gamble on jade, let alone make this insane amount of money!"

Ye Xingchen felt an invisible dagger stab straight into his heart.

Yes… If it weren't for his suggestion, Lin Beifan wouldn't have made 90 million so easily!

A deep regret engulfed him.

He really wanted to slap himself.

Why did I have to run my mouth?!

Why was I so stupid?!

Meanwhile, Lin Beifan continued, "So… how about you help me pick the next stone?"

"You… want me to pick?" Ye Xingchen was stunned.