Jacob hummed a tune, “It’s me, who are you?”


    On the other end of the line, Don Albert introduced himself, saying, “Hello, Mr. Jacob. This is Don Albert, the boss of Heaven Springs. I hope you still remember me.”


    Upon hearing Don Albert’s name, Jacob felt a surge of excitement. He switched on the speakerphone and eximed, “Hello, Fifth Master! Of course I remember you!”


    President Pei’s eyes lit up at Jacob’s mention of “Fifth Master.” He leaned in and whispered eagerly, “Is it really Don Albert, the Fifth Master?”


    Jacob nodded enthusiastically, feeling a swell of pride at that moment.<h3 style="background-color:DodgerBlue">


    President Pei was equally thrilled and quickly moved closer, eager to hear what Don Albert had to say.


    Don Albert then humbly replied, “Mr. Jacob, please don’t call me Mr. Don Albert anymore. That’s just a nickname the younger ones use for fun. Since you are Master Wade’s father-inw, you’re like family to me. Just call me Don Albert.”<fn6ec9> ??? ????? ???????s ??? ?????s??? ?? FindN0vel</fn6ec9>


    President Pei waspletely taken aback, realizing how impressive Jacob was. It was astonishing that Don Albert referred to himself as a junior in Jacob’s presence.


    Feeling even prouder, Jacob couldn’t help but ask, “Um… Mr. Albert, has my son-inw mentioned the diamond box to you?”


    Unbeknownst to Jacob, he had no idea about Charlie Wade’s true identity or the nature of the rtionship between Don Albert and Charlie. In Jacob’s eyes, Charlie was like a master, so he hesitated to address Don Albert informally.


    Don Albert responded enthusiastically, “Master Wade informed me about your visit. I’ve reserved the diamond box for you tonight, and the highest-standard banquet is prepared. I will personally wee you and your friends at Heaven Springs. Everything tonight will beplimentary!”


    Jacob was momentarily speechless. He understood that a banquet in the diamond box could easily cost hundreds of thousands, yet Don Albert was offering it for free. Wasn’t that just too extravagant?


    Moreover, Jacob realized that this dinner was not even a personal treat; he was just tagging along with Pei Chang. If Don Albert waived the bill for him, Jacob felt it would create an imbnce in the favors owed.


    President Pei, sensing Jacob’s hesitation, leaned in and whispered, “Jacob, my friend is hosting important guests tonight, and we’re just supporting yers. It would be better for you to ask Mr. Don Albert for a discount. If he waives the bill for you, it may cause difort for those invited, making my friend’s generosity seem futile.”


    Pei continued, “If Mr. Don Albert offers you a discount, it will ensure that the invited guests ept my friend’s hospitality. Besides, if you show appreciation for the discount, it will enhance your standing. This way, no one’s pride is hurt, and everyone benefits. You won’t owe Don Albert a favor either. It’s a win-win!”


    Understanding the implication, Jacob quickly replied, “Mr. Albert, my friend is the one hosting tonight. I don’t want to overshadow the guest. I would greatly appreciate it if you could offer us a discount.”


    Though Don Albert may not have read many books, he was undoubtedly skilled in social dynamics, and he grasped the situation immediately.


    He replied without hesitation, “Mr. Jacob, don’t worry! As your friend, I’ll definitely give you a significant discount. How about this: your friend will enjoy a 50% discount on all purchases tonight! Once your guests are settled, I will personally bring over two bottles of fine wine as a small gesture!”


    In Chinese society, giving face is an art form. There are times when one must be generous, but there are also times when one must not appear overly generous. The bnce is crucial. For example, if a man takes his girlfriend to a friend’s restaurant, and that friend waives the bill too generously in front of her, it can lead to misunderstandings. The girlfriend might perceive the owner’s generosity as a reason to be attracted to him, rather than to her date.


    Tonight, Jacob was a guest, and Don Albert needed to ensure he gave Jacob enough respect while also honoring the host’s role. If not, the host might feel slighted, even if they didn’t spend a dime, leading to potential resentment.


    With his expertise, Don Albert skillfully navigated the situation, making it beneficial for everyone involved.


    Jacob felt a wave of satisfaction as he smiled and asked Don Albert, “Mr. Albert, is it alright if wee over and mingle for a bit?”


    Don Albert eagerly responded, “Absolutely, no problem at all! You are always wee! I’m almost at Heaven Springs and will be waiting for you and your friends at the entrance!”


    Jacob expressed his gratitude before reluctantly hanging up the phone.


    During the conversation, Don Albert had praised Jacob genuinely, leaving him with an overwhelming sense offort, as if every pore in his body was breathing in fresh, sweet air—an intoxicating feeling indeed.