Reborn as a Noble’s Son
Chapter 1256 - Chapter 1256 Chapter 1211 President Qiaos Appreciation

Chapter 1256: Chapter 1211: President Qiao’s Appreciation Chapter 1256: Chapter 1211: President Qiao’s Appreciation Observing Shen Guoquan’s demeanor and expressions, at this moment, Shen Guoquan appeared very ordinary. On the surface, he was completely praising Longxi Province’s economic construction and development. However, the more he did so, the more Nie Zhenbang felt the need to be cautious.

After a brief contemplation, Nie Zhenbang also said with a smile, “Elder Brother Guoquan, you jest. Longxi Province’s development relies heavily on the central government’s support and policies. Additionally, Longxi Province’s foundation is weak. When development starts, it boosts the entire GDP significantly, which seems like a huge leap. The growth rate also appears frightening. In reality, it’s not that exaggerated. It’s just like Yuedong Province here. Its total GDP has already surpassed two trillion. That is something Longxi cannot match. The difficulty you have increasing by one point is much harder than us increasing by three or even four points. In actuality, Yuedong is still stronger.”

Having said that, Nie Zhenbang paused and added, “The economic start-up in Longxi Province is still slow. It’s too young, with too brief a development period. Compared to an old and powerful province like Yuedong, it’s not even on the same level. Your words could be construed as a veiled criticism of me.”

Nie Zhenbang’s words also implied his thoughts. Shen Guoquan’s probing was just to see whether Nie Zhenbang was a contender to him.

This was normal, for Shen Guoquan was such a person himself. Similarly, given Nie Zhenbang’s age and spirit, it was impossible for him to consider any position less than the third. Even he aspired for the top spot, just like his own. If that were the case, the two would be direct competitors, and a fierce battle was inevitable. Isn’t that what vying for the leading position means?

Nie Zhenbang’s response was also quite skillful, comparing Longxi’s economy with Yuedong’s and contrasting the development time of both provinces. He also subtly told Shen Guoquan, I indeed would like to compete with you, but reality is there, in this term, it’s your turn, you’re the age-appropriate and most suitable candidate. If it were me, I’d be too young.

Although not entirely dispelling Shen Guoquan’s doubts, his expression eased quite a bit. With a smile, he said, “Younger Brother Zhenbang, you’re too modest. Your work capability and tactics are widely recognized among our peers.”

Nie Zhenbang also responded with a smile, “Elder Brother Guoquan, you’re the one being courteous. There’s much I still need to learn from you.”

This conversation also subtly expressed his own intentions. To learn from Shen Guoquan undeniably placed Shen Guoquan in a higher position, suggesting a strong endorsement.

Following that, amidst the warm hospitality of Shen Guoquan and his wife, they spent another hour. They discussed some domestic matters but mostly talked about strengthening economic cooperation between Yuedong and Longxi. The host and guest partied to their content, and Nie Zhenbang rose to say his goodbyes at the appropriate time.

Leaving Xinhua Garden Community, driving his car, An Na next to him suddenly asked, “Zhenbang, have you really decided to wait another eight years?”

Saying “eight years,” An Na’s face showed a hint of regret and reluctance. Starting from over twenty years ago, An Na could feel Nie Zhenbang’s persistence, his pursuit. Throughout the journey, whether it was herself, Sister Wan, or Sister Li Xue, they all silently supported him.

Even to the point where, for Nie Zhenbang’s future, Sister Wan and the others would rather move overseas, with the purpose being to avoid affecting Nie Zhenbang in any matter.

However, now that the time had arrived, when just one step away from success, Nie Zhenbang chose restraint. This baffled An Na. With the support of the Nie family, her family, and the Dong family, coupled with the close relationships he had with Director Shen, President Qiao, and President Mu, An Na found it hard to comprehend why Nie Zhenbang made such a choice.

At this moment, Nie Zhenbang turned his head to look at An Na, smiled, and said, “An Na, sometimes, advancing or retreating is in but a moment’s thought. Some things are not simply about being able to do them and then succeeding in doing them. One must understand when to advance and when to retreat. Stepping back is also to advance better in the future, to accumulate stronger power and surge ahead. Right now, it seems, whether it’s Eldest Zhuang, the Dong family, or your father, they all share this view. Humans are social animals. Sometimes, social rules cannot be overturned.”

Not that An Na was someone who didn’t understand. Even if she was a bit wilful and slightly petulant in her youth, that was simply the result of being spoiled by the Yang family. Towards herself, An Na could be described as perfect. Now, in middle age, An Na was no longer that impulsive youth. Her mindset gradually calmed down, and she looked at Nie Zhenbang saying, “Zhenbang, by doing this now, does it mean that you’re establishing a good relationship with Shen Guoquan to prepare for the future?”

Hearing An Na’s words, Nie Zhenbang nodded with a smile, “Of course, that’s the case. Both my father and Eldest Zhuang sent me to meet Shen Guoquan, probably with this intention. Eldest Zhuang and Dad, they have one thing in common; they were both once core members of the nine pillars. Since they both say so, it suggests there is a consensus about Shen Guoquan at the top. Vying for it would be hopeless for me. Rather than becoming hostile with Shen Guoquan, it’s better to grant him a favor.”

President Qiao’s term has already been four years; half the tenure is over. The selection of the number one position is not a process decided on a whim. Probably, from the moment President Qiao took office, the higher-ups were already considering the candidate for the next step. These four years have been a buffer and a vetting period. Clearly, Shen Guoquan has already won unanimous approval from the top.

The fourth day of the first lunar month arrived as scheduled. During the previous days, New Year’s Day, Nie Zhenbang was continually on the move from morning to evening. On the second day of the new year, Nie Zhenbang spent the whole day accompanying Dong Wan at the Dong family’s home.

Although there were still strong resentments within the Dong family towards Nie Zhenbang, the years had passed, and Dong Wan’s perseverance had significantly softened their feelings. While they wouldn’t greet with smiles, they no longer spoke with hostility.

On the third day of the first lunar month, Nie Zhenbang paid visits to President Mu, Wang Suzhou, and other notable individuals. President Mu appeared to be quite contemplative about Nie Zhenbang’s choices. Overall, he still gave a high appraisal. This left Nie Zhenbang somewhat uncertain of his meaning.

On the fourth day of the first lunar month, at eight o’clock in the morning, Nie Zhenbang had already arrived at President Qiao’s doorstep. Accompanying him was An Na.

At the door, President Qiao and his wife came out to meet them. An Na had already approached, engaging warmly in conversation with the wife.

At this moment, President Qiao, smiling, said, “I appreciate your kind thoughts, come, let’s sit in the study for a while.”

In President Qiao’s study, soon after sitting down, an orderly served them tea. President Qiao sat nearby and picked up a pack of Zhonghua cigarettes, “How about a smoke?”

President Qiao was not one to smoke often, which Nie Zhenbang knew well. Smiling, he gestured with his hand, “No thanks, the air gets a bit stale with the heat on and smoking.”

Setting the cigarette pack aside, President Qiao pondered for a moment, then looked at Nie Zhenbang, “I’ve heard about your recent situation. You’ve done quite well. The exchange with Comrade Shen Guoquan should still be strengthened and deepened.”

With these words, the situation was essentially clear. President Qiao had spoken in such a way that indicated a consensus had been reached at the higher echelons; there was no disagreement regarding Shen Guoquan. Indeed, Nie Zhenbang had performed exceptionally, showing great resolve and courage in his decisions. Yet, when the final moment hadn’t come, to say Nie Zhenbang harbored no fantasies or suspense would be a lie. Everyone naturally prefers to be first rather than second–it’s human nature.

However, in this moment, with President Qiao’s affirmation, Nie Zhenbang truly let go of any lingering hope. His face instantly betrayed a hint of disappointment.

This scene naturally did not escape President Qiao’s notice. He was quite satisfied with Nie Zhenbang’s reaction. To only be momentarily disheartened after doing everything that could possibly be done–and done well–showed a mindset not commonly found.

They say one should have the courage to face failure and setbacks openly. But those who espouse such views often do so without having to bear the consequences. Truly courageous individuals like Nie Zhenbang, who face their defeats with such grace, are rare indeed.

After a brief silence, President Qiao slowly said, “Zhenbang, you don’t need to be disheartened about this matter. Your age is to your advantage. Furthermore, you must continue to perform well in your duties in Longxi Province. Don’t let this affect your emotions. Deciding on your case has always been challenging and troublesome for the higher-ups. Your situation is quite unique. They are still considering and discussing, looking to see if there might be a solution. Just keep this in mind, that’s all.”

With that, President Qiao actually skipped to another subject, “Zhenbang, I heard from Comrade Wang Suzhou that this time, the Organization Department is considering transferring Comrade Nie Jialei to serve as governor of Chubei Province?”

Naturally, such matters couldn’t be hidden from President Qiao. The transfer of Nie Jialei to Chubei Province would be nearly impossible without Nie Zhenbang’s strategic maneuvering behind the scenes. Combined with the Organization Department’s consideration of appointing Li Jiahua as deputy governor of Longxi Province, one could see the intrigue involved.

By mentioning this, President Qiao was not expressing dissatisfaction but indirectly informing Nie Zhenbang that the higher-ups had no objections. Essentially, this served as a form of compensation for Nie Zhenbang.

Nie Zhenbang understood President Qiao’s intent and nodded, “Chief, I’ve also heard about this matter. I will firmly comply with the organizational arrangements. Rest assured, Chief, I won’t let my emotions get in the way. I will continue to do my utmost in all my duties in Longxi Province.”

Seeing Nie Zhenbang’s commitment, President Qiao also expressed his admiration at the moment, nodding, “Good, unbothered by victory, unruffled by defeat; this is the Nie Zhenbang I knew back in WangHai.”

(To be continued. If you like this work, please visit Qidian (NovelFire.net) to cast your recommendation votes and monthly votes. Your support is my greatest motivation.)