“Positions eliminated?!”


    Upon hearing this news, President Pei felt a sudden jolt of anxiety. He quickly responded, his voice trembling: “President, our department is quiterge, overseeing the literary and artistic efforts of the entire province. How can such valuable positions just disappear like that?”


    On the other end of the line, President sighed heavily. “It’s precisely because our department is so extensive that we must streamline operations. I have no other option.”


    Not wanting to prolong the conversation, he added, “Old Pei, I truly regret this situation. Please don’t panic; just manage the Calligraphy and Painting Association for the time being. If a new opportunity arises, I promise to inform you immediately.”


    President Pei, being astute, understood the implications behind President’s words. While feeling quite disheartened, he maintained his politeness: “Understood, President. I appreciate all your efforts regarding this matter. If you receive any updates, please let me know at your earliest convenience.”<h3 style="background-color:DodgerBlue">


    “Of course,” President agreed readily. “Now, Old Pei, I’ll let you go for now. We can discuss this further when we meet in person.”


    “Alright, goodbye, President.”<fn8940> This update is avable on f?ndnovel</fn8940>


    “Goodbye.”


    After hanging up, President Pei was left fuming. Just as he was about to start his new role at the new unit, he was blindsided by the news that the position had been abolished!


    Frustration surged within him. Although he held the title of President of the Calligraphy and Painting Association, the organization was rtively small, with just over 20 members under his leadership. This meant his influence and budget were limited. More importantly, the chances for advancement in this role were minimal. His only paths for promotion led to provincial or higher-level associations, and he was uncertain when another opportunity might present itself. Missing this chance felt like a significant setback.


    What President Pei didn’t realize was that Don Albert had secretly cut off his prospects for advancement.


    In addition to blocking his promotion, ire had ns for him to facilitate Jacob’s return to the Calligraphy and Painting Association.


    On their way back from the airport, Jacob turned to ire, uncertainty in his voice. “My dear son-inw, aren’t you on good terms with Master Don Albert? Do you think he could help me with this situation?”


    ire replied casually, “He used to ask me for help with Feng Shui, but we haven’t been in touchtely. I could reach out to see if he’s willing to assist.”


    Jacob nodded vigorously, eximing, “Yes, yes, yes! My dear son-inw, please call him right away to explore any mediation options. I believe we might have a chance if he can pressure Mr. Pei…”


    “Alright, I’ll give him a call,” ire said, promptly reaching for his phone to contact Don Albert.


    As soon as the call connected, Don Albert’s respectful voice greeted them: “Master Wade, how can I assist you today?”


    ire replied with an air of importance, “By the way, Mr. Albert, I’m hoping to ask for a favor from you, if that’s convenient.”


    Jacob, sitting in the back, leaned forward and whispered urgently, “Good son-inw, put it on speaker!”


    Confident that Don Albert would pick up on the cues, ire switched the call to speaker mode without hesitation.


    Hearing ire refer to him as Mr. Albert, Don Albert understood that it wasn’t the best time for an open discussion and that others were likely present. He smiled and responded amicably, “Master Wade, what’s our rtionship if you can’t ask openly? If you need something, just let me know. I’ll do my utmost to help!”