85: Chapter 85 The Orphanage Crisis!
The Director hesitated for a moment, let out a heavy sigh, and finally began to explain.
It turned out that a real estate developer had set their sights on the Welfare Institute's land.
Although the Welfare Institute's courtyard wasn't large, there was a patch of wasteland behind the small two-story building.
The pace of development in Magic City was getting faster and faster.
It was only natural that someone would target this wasteland.
"The developer said they're going to turn this place into a new high-end residential complex."
"But if that happens, won't our Welfare Institute be gone? What will happen to the children?"
The old man's voice began to tremble as he spoke.
He had worked at this Welfare Institute his entire life; how could he bear to leave this group of children?
"Doesn't the district have any other arrangements? They can't just take this land for nothing, can they?"
Chen Xiaoran couldn't help but speak up and ask.
"Silly girl, this land originally belongs to the district."
"If they want to take the land back, no one can say a word."
"And the most critical thing is that there are quite a few children here; they simply can't make proper arrangements for them."
Auntie Song's voice carried a hint of a sob.
This was the real reason why she was unwilling to go to the hospital for treatment, no matter what Shen Zhou said.
If Shen Zhou really had money, she actually hoped he would look after the children at the Welfare Institute more rather than spending it on her treatment.
At this moment, the atmosphere in the room became increasingly somber.
The old Director let out a heavy sigh, his eyes moist as he said:
"Children, this land belongs to others after all, and building a high-end residential area here will play a significant role in driving the local economy and employment."
"It's only natural for the higher-ups to give up on the Welfare Institute after considering the overall situation."
"But I... I just can't bear to let go of the children."
Hearing the words 'economy' and 'employment,' a flash of inspiration struck Shen Zhou's mind.
"I understand, Director. Don't worry, I'll handle this matter as soon as possible."
"I guarantee that you and the children won't be separated!"
Shen Zhou said with absolute certainty.
"Shen Zhou, you mustn't do anything reckless. Everything has to follow the rules."
The Director was startled, fearing that Shen Zhou might act impulsively in a moment of desperation.
But Shen Zhou said with a chuckle:
"Don't worry, Director. I plan to preserve the Welfare Institute through donations."
"I plan to donate at least five million in the first phase."
Hearing this, the Director was instantly stunned.
Hardly any cars ever came to the Welfare Institute, so he had naturally known for a while that Shen Zhou had arrived in a sports car.
But driving a luxury car was one thing; what wealthy person would be willing to donate so much money all at once?
"Shen Zhou, don't be impulsive. It's not easy for you to earn money either."
"And you're still young; you still have to marry Xiaoran. There will be many things to spend money on in the future."
"I'm already very satisfied if you and Xiaoran can come to visit the children often."
The Director's first reaction was a firm refusal.
No matter how much he couldn't bear to leave the children, he didn't want Shen Zhou to end up destitute because of his kindness.
"Don't worry, Director. Five million isn't much to me."
"Wait a moment, I'll arrange for someone to come over right away."
Shen Zhou took out his phone with a smile.
Then, without further debate with the Director, he went into the hallway alone to make a call.
Before he could even dial, Chen Xiaoran walked out and tightly hugged Shen Zhou's arm.
"Brother, you don't have to do this for me."
"Don't worry, Brother. No matter how much money you spend here, I will work hard to save up and pay you back every cent."
Chen Xiaoran said with a determined tone.
It was enough that Shen Zhou had such intentions.
She didn't want Shen Zhou to spend more money because of her.
Shen Zhou gently flicked her nose and laughed helplessly.
"Silly girl, you know I'm not lacking that bit of money at all."
"Besides, I'm willing to do things for you."
"And these days, it's not easy to do good deeds. Opportunities to truly make a difference are even rarer."
"Don't worry, I'll get this settled."
With a chuckle, Shen Zhou pushed Chen Xiaoran back into the Director's office.
While Shen Zhou was making arrangements, Auntie Song and the Director were earnestly trying to persuade Chen Xiaoran.
"Xiaoran, you must talk to your boyfriend."
"Don't let the two of you argue because of the Welfare Institute."
"It's enough that you have this heart. We and the children of the Welfare Institute appreciate the sentiment."
Auntie Song and the Director seemed very anxious and apologetic.
They were afraid Shen Zhou had decided to donate on an impulse.
Chen Xiaoran bit her lip gently and finally said with a firm expression:
"Don't worry, Director Uncle and Auntie Song. I believe Brother isn't that kind of person."
Even though she said this, her inner resolve to earn money grew even stronger.
She would finish paying back Lin Lan's money first, then immediately save up to pay back the five million to Shen Zhou.
Little did this silly girl know that the money Shen Zhou planned to invest in the Welfare Institute was far more than five million.
After all, how could a mere five million settle the matter of the Welfare Institute's land?
After making a phone call, Shen Zhou took Chen Xiaoran to the bank.
Just as the two of them got out of the car, the bank manager was already waiting at the door.
"Mr. Shen, welcome to our Guangrong Bank headquarters."
"Please come this way with me."
The manager bowed slightly and led the way.
Shen Zhou nodded slightly, and the three of them walked toward the VIP area together.
This was the headquarters of the Magic City Guangrong Bank, so the VIP area was quite large.
The overall decor was slightly luxurious.
Rosewood tables and chairs could be seen everywhere in the VIP lobby area.
Fresh fruits and dried nuts, replaced regularly, were laid out on the tables.
Expensive small cakes and snacks were also visible everywhere.
As soon as Shen Zhou and his group entered the VIP lobby, they saw quite a few people there.
The most eye-catching among them was a stout, burly man.
This guy had a shaved head, wore a thick gold chain around his neck, and had dark brown leather shoes on his feet.
He was wearing a suit that seemed a size too small, with a black leather bag tucked under his arm.
At first glance, this guy definitely fit the description of a nouveau riche.
He stood up and swaggered toward the VIP room that had just become available.
"Excuse me, sir, this VIP room is already being used for a transaction. Please wait a little longer."
A staff member nearby stopped him very politely.
"Cut the crap! I'm a man who makes hundreds of thousands an hour. I don't have time to waste here! Get out of my way!"
The bald nouveau riche spoke with a very aggressive tone, his face full of impatience.
"I'm sorry, sir, but all VIP services require an appointment."
"Furthermore, you'll still have to wait a little while for your number to be called."
The bank lady in black stockings spoke with a very firm tone.