No wonder Chinese people liked discussing business over drinks. Trading toasts really was the best way to bring people closer.
In the space of a single meal, Ye Yaodong had gotten acquainted with all of them. They were practically ready to throw their arms around one another and call each other brothers.
Still, relationships forged over drinks were only temporary, and he had no way to maintain them through frequent visits.
In those days, people mostly relied on letters to communicate, and everyone was quite down-to-earth. Just becoming a familiar face and leaving a strong impression was good enough. If something came up, it might make things a little easier.
By the time they reached the pier, most of the alcohol had worn off. It was very dark, too, and nobody wanted to delay any longer.
Secretary Chen called on the villagers watching nearby to help. It took a large group working together to lift the sea monster onto the tractor.
They also secured the sea monster tightly to the tractor with ropes so that the bumps and its oversized body would not cause it to fall off.
Once everything was done, everyone breathed a sigh of relief. Director Chen smiled and said his goodbyes, ready to leave ahead of them.
"What a shame it's so late today," Ye Yaodong said. "You're busy, Director Chen, and you have to hurry back. Otherwise, we could have had a few more drinks, and you could have stayed the night. Going back tomorrow wouldn't be such a rush, and it would be safer, too."
"Thank you. Thank you for your hospitality tonight. I'll remember it. I've left you my number, so if you run into any difficulties or anything comes up, you can call me."
"Of course, of course. Thank you, Director Chen."