Looking at the JRA building through the car window, Rudolf's expression turned serious.
"As you wish."
Zhou Yuang agreed, then got out of the car with Rudolf.
The JRA building was imposing, its style lavish at every turn. But recalling some of the JRA's unsavory practices, Zhou Yuang could only think that its splendid exterior hid a rotten core.
He took a deep breath and walked inside with Rudolf. They had barely taken a few steps before countless eyes turned toward them.
Most of those eyes, though, were on Rudolf.
An attendant hurried over to greet her with great respect. When he learned that she had come to speak with someone in charge, he asked her to wait a moment.
The JRA president had not arrived at work yet, but his secretary was there.
They could speak with the secretary first.
As a chairperson herself, Rudolf felt a twinge of displeasure at finding she could not speak directly with the JRA president.
Had he truly not arrived at work?
If he had not, perhaps that meant he had no intention of meeting her. But turning Rudolf away would have consequences.
Even if he really was absent, she would still have to wait and speak with him.
And if the president and his secretary intended to play good cop, bad cop, the matter would become harder to handle.
Rudolf did not fear a direct refusal. She feared being passed around by crafty old hands.
When they reached the secretary, Zhou Yuang studied her.
She was a woman who looked exceptionally capable, and she spoke with a practiced composure.
"I'm sorry, the president won't be here for a little while, though he shouldn't be long. What can I help you with, Ms. Rudolf?"
"I'm here for one reason..."
Rudolf went straight to