The Tycoon Inheritance

Learning of their fathers' identities were a small matter to the Chen Brothers. The oldest placed the matter behind him while the youngest didn't care.

Their days resumed calmly. One goes to work, the other to school.

Chen Yan finally had a relaxed mentality and assumed the role of a normal 12 year old kid. He fell deep into the fantasy circle and have been enticed by Japanese Anime and Wuxia Light Novels. The estate was livelier partially to this as Han Shi has the same hobbies and tends to make their home an evening rest spot.

Chen Kai was pleased to know that his brother can actually have a normal childhood and not look over his shoulder every second or be wary of what he eats. Apart from looking over Chen Yan, he has been juggling the new companies under his names, slowly changing the decades old rules and renewing them under his hand.

Thanks to Xiao Wei he was able to employ capable CEOs to handle the system awarded companies, leaving him to focus on his upcoming graduation and his present inheritance.

"Our dear Princess President is planning a farewell dinner for the class after the ceremony."

"On her own expense or is she asking for help."

"Our class has over fifty students, where can she book a spot that can cater that much people. Its so close to Graduation, will she be lucky?"

"…. No one is concerned about that. They only want to know if they have to pay for themselves."

"…"

"…"

"….. It does depend on the restaurant though."

Lin Fa, Ye Jun and Da Mei carried expressions of 'totally right' as they read the ongoing messages in the school chat group.

"Ask her privately. Kai also suggested dinner at a private clubhouse with the group after our ceremony before flying over to Hangzhou." Su Lian interjected. It was last night the idea of a graduation trip surfaced during the nightly phone call between her and Chen Kai. In her perspective, now that they were all working adults a little get away will do them some good.

"Hangzhou?" Da Mei asked. Raising her head from her phone, her gaze landed on Su Lian who was seated adjacent to her.

"Mhmm. He has a villa there. It would be a waste for it to collect dust all year round, he says."

The girls listened to her words and shook their heads in amusement. Brother Chen certainly fits the bill of rich and domineering boss – did you hear those words? How Rich~

Their giddy chatter made the boutique attendant smile as she waited on them professionally. The girls arrived ten minutes before their styling appointment and occupied the quaint waiting area. Chen Kai was included in this mild shopping trip and is set to arrive soon.

Su Lian checked in on him and gave the attendant a heads up who in response went to inform their selected stylist.

"I hope there will be something that I like. The ceremony is going to be a live broadcast for family and classmates who can't attend. Ah~ I must look my best!" Lin Fa exclaimed as she grabbed a portfolio from the coffee table.

Da Mei rolled her eyes at her friend's enthusiasm and opted to silently wait while reading some work files. Ye Jun was busy chatting in the class group, dressing up formally wasn't appealing to her.

Outside, a Mercedes-Maybach pulled up to the curb catching the discerning eyes of some pedestrians. One in particular stopped upon seeing the luxury car. The grandeur of the driver coming down and opening the back door for the occupant was dazzling.

Blazing curiosity turned to disbelief when that person saw the occupant of the car was revealed.

"Whew~ I wonder how long it took for this young master to get this car customized. My father has been longing for this model." The young man who spoke turned to the person beside him. He frowned when he saw the intense look in her eyes. Following her line of sight, he found that it was on the man who left the car.

Even if this woman was something he picked up at the clubhouse, he can't accept wandering eyes.

"Do you know him?"

Maybe its her instincts to survive or maybe she heard the underlying warning, she quickly added a disdainful sneer on her lips before answering.

"An old acquaintance. Nothing much. Let's go in," she answered in a nonchalant manner. Zhang Rui was previously caught in a trance when she recognized Chen Kai. Was she wrong to aim for a higher standard? Holding onto the man beside her, they followed Chen Kai a few steps behind and entered the boutique.

The Young Master who Zhang Rui was currently clinging to, couldn't help but be curious about the guy ahead of him. He sneered in his heart at Zhang Rui's failure to hide her interest. The gleam in her eyes betrayed her.

"Welcome, Young Master Chen. You're right on time for your appointment, allow our attendant to guide you." The neutral and melodic voice of the receptionist brought both Zhang Rui and her human ATM out of their wayward thoughts.

"Thank you."

Zhang Rui shuddered at the sound of that familiar magnetic voice. Instead of a good memory surfacing, the scene of him pushing her into the fire pit surfaced. It was no longer the voice of the Campus Male God but of the Devil. Its because of him she has to work to get at least 20 Yuan in her pocket. Its also because of him that she lost her hold in the Lin Family now that Lin Shen was banished.

The young man beside her misunderstood her shudder of fear for something else. His dormant arrogance flared. He stepped up to the woman who was also blinded by that man. 'Isn't it just a bit of money that got them dazzled? Money really makes their bodies become loose.'

"Oh! Young Master He! Its been a while since you visited us. How was the gift for your mother?" The receptionist had both high EQ and IQ, along with a knack for remembering faces. How can she not know that the woman by his side isn't a permanent one!

"Miss Lissi! Its good to see you again. She loved it. I brought my girl here for a quick change in style. She's the boss for today. No restrictions." he regaled.

Its good talking with smart people.

Zhang Rui's eyes shined. She grabbed Young Master He's hand and gave him a helpless smile. "It's a simple shopping trip, no need for such big affair" Her words had one meaning but her body is saying differently.

Miss Lissi, scolded her in her heart, 'Who are you putting on for? Who can't see through this act? Is the Young Master's taste becoming simpler?'

"Its alright. Its not a dent in my pocket. Miss Lissi, how about a stylist. I heard Madam Si returned from Italy. Is she available?"

"Apologies, Young Master He. Madam Si only has two spots a day upon her return. The second one for the day is filled." (Fat chance Madam Si will style a 'pick me up' girl) Miss Lissi was careful with her words as usual.

"Hmm. Unlucky. Two attendants will do. They can help her," he replied, not taking her little scorn as important. She was right though! He turned to Zhang Rui and blessed her with a teasing smile that hooked her in a second.

Thinking of how her luck changed since she met this Young Master, she boldly held onto him, claiming him as hers. Who the heck is Lin Shen? Who cares about that poser Chen Kai? This was her chance for a good life.

Miss Lissi: "…" No darling, he's not yours alone.

The attendants: "…" When does this shift ends?!

On the second floor of the boutique, Chen Kai lazily told the girls of Zhang Rui's appearance with a new wealthy beau.

The girls: How resourceful!

Ignoring that little news, the lover of gossip Lin Fa asked a random question: "What about Lin Shen? Is he alive?"

On the west side of the business district, Lin Shen was currently being berated by his overbearing boss. In order to keep his apartment, Lin Shen had to unwillingly lower his head and ask his so-called friends for job opportunities. The only reasonable one that paid weekly and above 2000 Yuan was a male escort at private clubhouse. He was hired based on his good looks which gave him much tips.

Wasn't he in the position as these customers a month ago? Harassing escorts. Ordering menial workers around. Being handsy and unreasonable.

Now he was being chewed out for verbally attacking an important customer.

As a man, being teased and treated like a gigolo by a woman was a blow to his ego.

'I need this paycheck! I need this paycheck!' he chanted internally as he listened to the 'rules' once again. He had to hold on. Once his father sees how diligently he's working amongst these people, he will go back to his life as a rich Young Master.

Yes! Any day now!

~~~~~~~

The weeks leading up to their graduation held no surprises. Their class held online meetings as last farewells and finalizing of plans for graduation celebrations. The school and study body committee were busy with the ceremony and spared no expense in décor and all embellishment for the seniors' big day.

The day before his graduation, Chen Kai had Chen Yan accompany him in his office to show him the businesses under their family name and also what he inherited.

The ones rewarded by the system was known to Chen Yan; what his brother inherited piqued his interest.

"Brother! These are all enviable businesses. I heard one of my classmates bragging about this mall." Chen Yan pointed to the four luxury malls being displayed on the large screen.

"According to the file, these four malls are all the shops and trading experience the Li Clan had from the beginning. You can say their foundation is hundreds of years old." He may not see it but a hint of pride was in Chen Kai's eyes as he spoke of this new family business.

He has roots on this star that belonged to his family. A warm feeling covered his heart as he went through each business in detail.

Laohu Lily Garden – An exclusive courtyard for clients who wish for solitude and reminiscence.

Jodache Private Clubhouse – Membership Only. The name Jodache is known domestically and internationally as branches are in well developed province.

LiJu Armed Services – This company, well strong hold is military and mercenary based. The Li Clan started escort businesses back then and developed over the years. The name LiJu is known for their special bodyguards and multiple security services.

Shenwu Academy – There's three in total. The school caters to any social class. Under the family's strict handling the academy has made a name for themselves in the education sector. Tuition is reasonable, teachers are impartial and they keep up with the changes of the outside world.

Lijao Auction and Antique House – One of the many places to get a hold of history in one's hands. Being able to be a guest at Lijao is a sign of one status.

All six inherited businesses plays a large role in the Li Family and held permanent positions across the industries. With such tall trees, there will surely be winds wanting to knock them down. Chen Kai also received information on the rivals for each company. All of their information was put on a red list by Argon, any slightest provocation they make towards Chen Kai, he would be alerted.

"Compare to my last life, managing everything seems easier this time."

Chen Yan caught his words and remembered the details of his brother's previous life. It was truly better living in retirement.

"You can focus on the family part of your life now."

"…. Umm. That is put on hold for a few years. Lian just started her career and we both have family issues to deal with." Though Chen Kai was optimistic about his relationship with Su Lian, it was better to do things gradually and solve the external factors around their lives.

"You have a point but it's really interesting that both of you have 'daddy issues.'"

"…"

~~~~~~~~

XXX University has held their position in the Top 3 prominent universities in China for over eight years. Since its establishment, each year group was greatly celebrated upon their graduation.

This year was no different.

Scheduled for an afternoon ceremony, the planning committee hosted a light brunch before the event to settle the guests and the students who rushed from work or wherever they were. Under a large sky blue tent with outdoor air-conditioning, elites and common folk dressed in pastel colors, moved around each other in a relaxed mood.

Conversations ranged from the students to their past experiences as college grads.

Sophomore students dressed as waiters shuffled around the guests, serving them diligently and trying their best to uphold their university's prestige. From their observation, most of their seniors came from good households that have little or much say in few industries.

Within the guests, a few businessmen encircled a rather good looking middle-aged man, heaping praises on his name and blowing rainbow farts, trying their best to be remembered.

The man filtered out their words and unhurriedly thanked them by name leaving a neutral connection amongst them. He spoke of Nanjing's constant changes in their prosperity and the unending new businesses that emerge every few years.

As he socialized with the gentlemen, his secretary took that time to flutter around the makeshift hall. She listened to other parents gush about their children but in between a few mentioned the name 'Chen Kai'. Each time his name was mentioned it was accompanied with a tone of jealousy or envy.

Chen Kai is said to be a favored all-rounder and one of the few students who pursued more than one major, the faculty likes him and his fellow classmates respects him for his achievements. Hearing these comments and praises, Shuri's heart lifted with pride. This was the son of Sister Qing and Brother Huai, two exceptionally gifted persons. Her god-son! How can their son be a waste?

A dragon begets a dragon.

Aiming to return to Brother Huai's side, a voice sounded over the speakers in the tent.

(Welcomed guests, the graduation ceremony will begin in fifteen minutes. While we wait, here are highlights and achievements of class 202x!)

On the last word, the idle monitors became active. The school's logo and a congratulatory message appeared before the start of a slide show.

Shuri paused her steps and along with the other guests watched every face that appeared on the screen. The doting mothers and proud fathers exclaimed when their child showed up, earning sincere praise from their new acquaintances. A few faces popped up with no acknowledgement but that didn't leave the mood be stagnant. Shuri on the other hand was on pins and needles.

The two only received a vague description of the first child which left a lot to the imagination – 'Qing'er imprinted her likeness into the child'. Those were Ji Moxuan's words.

A second later, under Shuri's intense gaze and Chen Huai's anticipation, Chen Kai's image and profile came up. The feeling of their hearts being clenched and their breathing becoming unstable came into play when they saw him. Tears blurred Shuri's vision while Chen Huai found it hard to swallow.

Fair unblemished skin on such an immaculate face with dark forboding eyes brought about many comparisons to the guests but to them they came to one conclusion – Qing'er's child. Just like his mother, his hair was unnaturally black which made him more alluring. High bridged nose, supple lips these were features Chen Huai blessed his child with.

The arrogance and nobility emanating from that simple photo can be felt by everyone.

Chen Kai was considered devastingly handsome and when they read his profile, low curses were heard from the parents.

"Such an evildoer! Handsome and high in academics! Can he leave some dignity for my son?"

"No wonder my kid said he was unlucky being in this year group."

"Ahhhh! What sort of genetic make up is this?"

Chen Huai heard it all, the smile on his face grew. Someone near him noticed this and quickly made a judgement. "Your brat?"

"Yeah, the splitting image of his mother," he answered with heavy heart.

After the fifteen minutes, they were all led to the indoor auditorium decorated in the colors of sky blue and peach. The colors weren't garish and brought a sense of comfort when placed together in the styled décor. Paired with the warm lighting and cool temperature, it was a relaxing atmosphere to watch the proceedings.

Shuri sat beside Chen Huai, they were both lost in thought silently waiting to see Chen Kai. They spent days collecting knowledge of his childhood and followed his path to Nanjing. They learned how Li Muqing used Chu Yang as a cover to shield Chen Kai from any probing Old Master Chen may have done if he pursued her.

There was also the monthly payment given to the man to ensure Chen Kai will be housed and well-fed after her death. This stopped after he was 18 and on his way to Nanjing, severing ties to that household.

Li Muqing planned for Chen Kai's future meticulously and left Ji Moxuan to look after him.

They were both grateful that she didn't cut off any contact to them. Chen Kai can now stand on his own. The next step was left to them.

Students began to enter the hall; dressed in white ceremonial gowns they entered solemnly with their heads held high as this was a memorable day not only for them but their family.

Chen Huai wasn't actively looking for his son but his eyes were drawn to a tall figure in the sixth position of the first group of students. His eyes followed that person till he sat at his reserved seat.

There he is!

The familiarity and bond that he never felt with his other son was felt with Chen Kai. He didn't have any aversion to this child, he was heavily compelled to meet him, talk to him and hopefully get to the level of true father and son.

This was his son.

His heart ached for the umpteenth time that day. A bout of sadness flashed across his face before he restrained his emotions. Seeing Chen Kai made him more determined to work on this bond.

Author Note~~

I don't know why but I've been lethargic for while now. I wanna write but my mind won't corporate. A late update, I know.

Let it pile up then read. Make sure to put on an alert for new updates.