After being subjected to such a blistering dressing-down, Ji Shize could no longer save face. "Wang Mian's work has already been taken over by the group's Chief Xue. Whichever technology you're referring to, he should be responsible for this collaboration."
Director Chang simply threw his own words back at him. "That's your group's internal business. It's none of my concern. All I know is that the name on the document is Wang Mian, so he's the one I want."
Then he abruptly changed tack. "Or does Shili look down on our 13th Institute, and you've just made up some excuse to brush me off?"
That was a rather serious accusation. The 13th Institute had the state behind it and was one of the ten major defense research institutes. However high and mighty Shili might act, it would never dare be that arrogant.
Ji Shize's facial muscles tightened, his expression exceptionally stiff. "Director Chang..."
Ji Yanzhi cut him off and stepped in to salvage the situation. "Please don't be upset, Director. Our group has always placed great importance on cooperation with the state. We would never, and should never, turn down this opportunity over internal issues. Please have a seat. I'll contact Wang Mian right away."
Director Chang nodded warmly at him, thinking that young Ji's older brother was much more sensible. He looked sharp and got things done efficiently, too.
As for that vice chairman standing beside him... hmph.
Ji Yanzhi went to the desk to get his phone. Wang Mian's phone had been switched off for the past few days. He planned to try calling once, and if he still couldn't reach him, he would have the technical department locate Wang Mian's phone.
Ji Yanzhi held the phone to his ear and, to his surprise, heard it ringing.
It