The Charismatic Charlie Wade

Zara’s words sent shivers down Eric’s spine, his anxiety casting a cold shadow over him.
Doubt didn’t find a foothold within him. Zara’s revelations were too genuine to dismiss. He struggled to fathom any reason why
Zara, a figure in her own right, would hold particular interest in his Celestial Group’s ambitions.
In his estimation, missing out on Zara’s acquisition could mean being trapped in this role until he was seventy, a position he
would then pass onto his son. What would his empire look like at seventy? He couldn’t fathom that either. The future of his
business, and the entire family’s destiny, remained uncertain.
Yet, one thing remained clear, selling the company now, pocketing 700 million in cash, and factoring in a 20% equity transfer tax,
he would still be left with a sum of 560 million.
A substantial sum that could secure a prosperous life for himself and his descendants.
With this in mind, he clenched his teeth, made a resolute decision, and swiftly declared, “Miss Banks, your sincerity has won me
over. No more haggling, I’ll meet your price of 700 million!”
Zara nodded, a satisfied smile gracing her lips.
She spoke up, saying, “Excellent. I’ll have our financial manager draft a letter of intent right away. Once that’s done, our experts
will visit your tea base. You must instruct your on-site manager to cease all work immediately. You’ll then have full authority to
cooperate with our team.”
“Absolutely,” Eric replied without a second thought. “Miss Banks, rest assured. Once the deposit is received, I’ll follow your every
directive.”
Effectively, the Celestial Group was no longer his to steer. If Zara called for a work stoppage, he would ensure it was obeyed.
Zara’s confidence was unwavering. “In that case, I’ll have my financial team prepare the necessary documentation, and we’ll
transfer the payment promptly.”
A note of flattery colored Eric’s voice. “Of course, Miss Banks. Give me a moment, I’ll sort this out right away.”
Swiftly, Eric’s secretary forwarded the group’s account details to Zara’s representative. Within minutes, the substantial sum of
100 million dollars was electronically transferred into Celestial Group’s coffers.
The moment the money registered, jubilation surged through Eric and his son. A celebratory champagne bottle beckoned.

Meanwhile, Zara provided Eric with Valentina’s license plate number, instructing him to rendezvous at the entrance.
Eric, invested in his new business prospects, phoned his base’s manager personally. He imparted the news of the company’s
sale to Banks Group and, with specificity, mentioned the imminent visit from Banks’ representative.
The base manager, initially startled, regained composure. Being an employee, his primary concern lay in his salary stability. The
employer’s name didn’t matter much, as long as he retained his job. The looming key, however, was to win Banks Group’s
satisfaction to avoid layoffs under new management.
Thus, he cut his workday short and awaited Banks’ emissary at the base’s gate.
Simultaneously, Valentina received Zara’s call. “Mr. Anderson, I trust you’re well. Celestial Group has officially welcomed my
‘intention money,’ marking the completion of our acquisition. The grand total comes to a cool 700 million yuan. Oh, and I’ve
already nudged him to alert the base’s director and shared your license plate number. Just make your way over, and he’ll be
there, ready to follow your lead.”
Impressed by Zara’s seamless efficiency, Valentina admired her skills. He commented, “Your efficiency is truly remarkable, Miss
Banks. It’s rare to see someone handle matters with such precision.”
To which, Zara’s reply came swiftly, “Mr. Anderson, there’s no need for such formalities. Consider the deposit a small token of my
appreciation. Your acceptance is my honor.”
Valentina acknowledged her sentiment, smiling. “Now I owe you a favor.”
Zara’s elation knew no bounds. A phrase from a man of Valentina’s stature meant more than any sum of money.
At this juncture, Valentina kept his words brief. He mentioned his pressing business at Celestial Group’s tea base and, excusing
himself, ended the call.
Engine rumbling, Valentina reversed course and embarked on his journey. Beside him, Maria radiated joy, tears welling up.
“Thank you...”
Valentina waved it off, humility in his demeanor. “No need for thanks, especially considering you saved my life.”
He swiftly switched topics, “Oh yes, given your fondness for Pu’er tea, you’re welcome to manage the company. If you find it
inconvenient, I’ll arrange a team to oversee operations on your behalf. You can visit whenever you please, preserving your

father’s memory by cultivating the tea you desire.”
Moved, Maria responded, “To have the chance to honor my parents is gratitude enough. I’d never wish for your property.”
Valentina’s tone lightened. “Tea isn’t my forte. I’d rather give the company to capable hands than let it languish. If it doesn’t work
out, I’ll shut down operations. That way, your parents’ peace won’t be disturbed.”
Maria dissuaded him, her eyes firm. “My father cherished simplicity. He wouldn’t wish for destruction in his name.”
Valentina grinned, accepting her resolve. “Then it’s settled. The company’s destiny is yours to shape.”
With a pause, Maria concurred, wiping her tears away, a smile gracing her lips. “When we return to Aurous Hill, I’ll strategize how
to run this company. I’m well-versed in Pu’er tea, and with my family’s experience, I can make a meaningful contribution.”
Valentina recalled Maria’s connection to Pu’er tea, recognizing her deep understanding. Her guidance had been sought even by
veterans in their twilight years, attesting to her expertise.
Maria sighed, “The Pu’er tea that’s been rare in my life, the one to ignite my family’s passion, this tree... I think it’s from those
branches that the farmers cut off from the mother Pu’er. But in the process of transplanting and engrafting, it has diluted the
essence across generations. It’s doubtful the mother Pu’er’s true essence can ever be replicated...”