155: If I could win Lei Dong's favor

Jack Ma had arranged for Lei Jun to stay in the most top-tier presidential suite at the Four Seasons Hotel in Hangzhou City.

The suite was exceptionally luxurious and spacious, also boasting an unparalleled view of West Lake.

Upon arriving at the presidential suite, Lei Jun surveyed the room.

The living room was carpeted with a handmade wool rug, the floor-to-ceiling windows in the bedroom offered a panoramic view of West Lake, and the bathroom was stocked with a full set of La Prairie toiletries.

"Ms. Lei, for your itinerary in Hangzhou City over the next few days, we must apologize for the humble accommodation. Would you like to rest first this afternoon? We can arrange a visit to the group headquarters later."

Standing at the suite's entrance, Jack Ma still wore an expression of respectful caution, as if afraid of any inadequacy in his arrangements.

Seeing his overly nervous demeanor, Lei Jun smiled helplessly.

"President Ma, you don't need to be so tense. Relax a little."

Jack Ma was momentarily stunned, then quickly nodded, though his body remained stiff.

Lei Jun continued with a smile, "I have no interest whatsoever in the company's day-to-day management or specific operations. The Ali Group will continue to be under your full authority."

These words struck like a thunderbolt, leaving Jack Ma frozen in place.

He was engulfed in ecstatic joy.

Then came disbelief. He tentatively asked, "Director Lei, you... you're serious?"

Lei Jun looked at his apprehensive expression and explained with a smile.

"President Ma, you are a rare talent. From Ali's initial startup to its current status as an industry giant, your capabilities are evident to all. Since I've acquired shares, I trust you can continue to lead this company well."

She looked at Jack Ma seriously.

"All I want is for the company to be stably profitable. As long as there are no major strategic errors and no harm to shareholder interests, you may manage it however you see fit."

This clear and powerful explanation was like warm sunlight, completely dispelling all the gloom and fear in Jack Ma's heart!

He felt the heavy stone that had been pressing on his chest for months instantly lifted!

Immense joy and the thrill of being trusted made his blood boil with excitement.

"Thank you, thank you for your trust, Director Lei!"

Jack Ma was extremely moved and bowed deeply to Lei Jun.

"I, Jack Ma, hereby pledge to you that I will spare no effort to lead Ali to new heights of glory and will absolutely not disappoint your expectations!"

At this moment, amidst his awe for Lei Jun, a genuine sense of gratitude and appreciation for her recognition was added.

Lei Jun nodded in satisfaction.

After a peaceful nap in the presidential suite at noon, Lei Jun awoke to find the sunlight outside the window much softer.

At three in the afternoon, Jack Ma arrived punctually in person to escort her. The motorcade set off once again, heading for the Ali Group headquarters.

When Lei Jun, surrounded by a group of executives in suits, stepped into the main hall of Ali's headquarters...

The employees, who had been instructed to present their best demeanor, maintained professional smiles and welcoming postures on the surface, but inwardly, they were already in a state of shock and awe.

"No way? Is this some kind of international joke? That silver-haired... beauty walking ahead of President Ma is our legendary new boss? The absolute controlling shareholder?"

"This is too surreal. I thought it would at least be a powerful businesswoman with a strong presence, or a respected older-generation entrepreneur... How can she be so young? She looks younger than me!"

"Director Lei... she's too beautiful! Her looks, her aura, that silver hair... she completely outshines all the female celebrities in the entertainment industry!"

"Oh no, oh no... I previously imagined the new boss as a stern old lady. This contrast is just too great!"

The female employees' feelings were very complex.

"Oh my god... how can she be so perfect? Being so wealthy and influential to this extent, and still looking this gorgeous—does she leave any room for us ordinary people?"

"Crying with envy... Her clothes and jewelry look terrifyingly expensive, and her skin—how does she maintain it?"

"Jealousy is twisting my face... but I have to admit, she really has an aura, that kind of cool and noble feeling that can't be learned."

The male employees' minds, however, became more active, their gazes firmly glued to Lei Jun.

They couldn't help but start to fantasize.

If one could gain Director Lei's favor, even if it meant marrying into her family, wouldn't that be a meteoric rise?

Not only would one marry such a peerless beauty, but also possess billions in wealth, never having to struggle in life again.

But upon second thought, they shook their heads with a bitter smile.

Director Lei's conditions were too superior—wealth, looks, and an unfathomable background. Ordinary employees like them didn't even have the qualification to get close to her.

They were extremely curious: what kind of man could possibly be worthy of Director Lei?

A scion from a similarly wealthy family, or a top-tier industry elite?

...A while later.

As the tour was nearing its end, Jack Ma and the group of executives gathered around again, their faces showing inquiry and anticipation.

"Director Lei, you must be tired! We have arranged a banquet for the evening. What do you think..."

Jack Ma cautiously spoke up, hoping to use this opportunity to further strengthen their relationship.

Lei Jun hesitated almost not at all and directly waved her hand.

The continuous formal occasions and social obligations had left her feeling somewhat constrained and weary.

She said plainly.

"No need."

"Let's end the formalities here. I'd like to go out on my own, wander around, have some casual fun, and relax."

Jack Ma's heart first skipped a beat, worried that something in their hospitality had been lacking and had annoyed Lei Jun.

But seeing her calm expression, which didn't seem feigned, he quickly suppressed his unease and reacted swiftly: "Understood, understood! It's only right that you need to relax, Director Lei!"

He immediately turned to his most capable assistant beside him and instructed sternly: "You, accompany Director Lei for the entire duration. You must fulfill every need Director Lei has!"

"All expenses will be covered by the group. Make sure Director Lei enjoys herself to the fullest!"

Afraid that Lei Jun might refuse, he added.

"This assistant is the most attentive in our group. She knows all the good spots in Hangzhou City. Having her along can also help you handle miscellaneous matters. Please don't feel burdened."

Lei Jun said nothing more, tacitly accepting the arrangement.

She knew Jack Ma was afraid of inadequate hospitality.

Since it was just sending an assistant to accompany her, it wouldn't disrupt her relaxation.

Subsequently, Jack Ma personally, along with the group of executives, respectfully saw Lei Jun off to her car. They watched the vehicle drive away until its taillights disappeared from sight. Only then did everyone simultaneously let out a long sigh of relief.

Jack Ma even felt that the back of his shirt was slightly damp with cold sweat.

"Finally... we got through it smoothly."

His heart was filled with relief.

Although Lei Jun was young, the pressure brought by her gaze and aura was very real.

Fortunately, the final outcome far exceeded expectations!

Not only did she have no intention of interfering with management, but she had also clearly expressed her trust.

This allowed his heart, which had been suspended for so long, to finally settle back a bit... On the other side.

The car drove smoothly through the streets of Hangzhou City. The assistant, while observing Lei Jun's expression, cautiously suggested.

"Director Lei, there is a 'Cloudscape Club' in Hangzhou City. It's a top-tier private club locally, where the clientele is exclusively wealthy and influential. It offers a comprehensive range of entertainment options."

"There's billiards, bowling, a cigar bar, and an open-air viewing deck. If you'd like to relax, going there should be quite comfortable."