110 The Tycoon's Circle of Friends

Xiao Yao, being such a wealthy tycoon, undoubtedly had a vast circle of acquaintances. Most of those interested in this live broadcast and likely to become future patrons were probably locals from the city. “Let’s film the guests arriving one after another so that the viewers can get a glimpse of the tycoon’s social circle. I believe your audience will be very curious,” suggested Zhao Weidong.

Zhao Weidong wasn’t concerned about whether Sang Qingye’s viewers were interested; he was speaking out of his own curiosity.

Although from what Sang Qingye had mentioned, it was clear Xiao Yao’s family was very wealthy, Xiao Yao was extremely secretive. Despite knowing him for quite some time and even dining together twice, Zhao Weidong still hadn’t figured out who Xiao Yao’s parents were.

Since he hadn’t received an invitation to the grand opening but had come eagerly to show support, it was not only to befriend Xiao Yao but also an opportunity to uncover his true identity.

The restaurant’s opening was sure to attract many guests. Once they arrived, observing who they were would provide a clearer understanding of Xiao Yao’s standing.

“That’s a good idea, Weidong. I’m also quite curious about which guests will show up later. It’s a great chance to see the tycoon’s circle of friends. I’m sure your viewers will be very interested,” He Jiayi wholeheartedly agreed with Zhao Weidong’s plan.

Gu Weiwei added, “It’s still early, and the hall is empty and echoing. There’s not much worth filming right now. I think capturing the guests as they arrive will be far more engaging.”

“Alright then, since everyone’s curious about the tycoon’s social circle, let’s film the guests when they come,” Sang Qingye nodded approvingly. “But there’s one issue: we haven’t interacted with the tycoon’s circle before. When the guests arrive, we might not recognize them.”

“Ordinary guests, we probably won’t know, but if they’re well-known local tycoons, most of us should know them. Also, we can check the names on the flower baskets and congratulatory gifts they bring—that should give us clues,” Zhao Weidong, a frequent attendee of opening ceremonies, explained with confidence.

“That makes sense. Since the flower baskets are all outside, let’s head out there to start the live broadcast,” Sang Qingye suggested.

Zhao Weidong replied, “Broadcasting outside will be too noisy. Our current spot is perfect. When the guests come in, we can capture them clearly.”

“What about filming the flower baskets outside?” Sang Qingye asked.

“Once all the guests have arrived, we’ll go outside to film the flower baskets. That way, it builds anticipation. What do you think?”

Zhao Weidong wasn’t too concerned about the flower baskets. Even if he saw the names, he might not be able to identify them. If he didn’t recognize most of the guests today, it would mean Xiao Yao’s circle wasn’t as impressive as expected—and whether to continue associating with him would be another matter.

As the four spoke quietly, Zhou Xiaobai led several people through the door.

“Guests are arriving. Have you started the live broadcast?” Gu Weiwei reminded.

“I’m starting it now,” Sang Qingye replied, already ready. Upon opening the live feed, she began broadcasting.

After briefly introducing the situation, Sang Qingye said, “Everyone must be eager to see the tycoon’s circle of friends, right? The first wave of guests is already here. Let’s take a look at who they are.”

Zhou Xiaobai guided Bai Yuzhen and her party quickly into the camera’s view.

“The first guests arrived with great presence. They’re all dressed formally, clearly high-ranking executives from big companies. Unfortunately, I’m not familiar with any of them,” Sang Qingye glanced at the scrolling comments and continued, “So many viewers are mercilessly teasing me. You all know I’m just an ordinary person. How could I possibly recognize these distinguished individuals? You’re really putting me on the spot.”

The comments flooded her screen once again. “Don’t worry, viewers, I’m not fighting this battle alone today. Although I’m inexperienced, I’ve brought along three wealthy second-generation friends.”

“Sang Weiwei, why don’t you say hello to the viewers?” Sang Qingye turned to her friend.

Once the three entered the frame, they all greeted the audience with confidence.

Afterward, Sang Qingye asked, “The first group of guests looks quite impressive. Do you recognize any of them? I don’t know a single one.”

“They all have a professional demeanor, probably company executives. Sadly, I don’t recognize them either,” Gu Weiwei spoke first.

He Jiayi shook her head. “I don’t recognize any of them either.”

All eyes turned to Zhao Weidong. Not disappointing their expectations, he spoke with some excitement, “The tycoon’s circle is indeed extraordinary. I recognize two of them. The only woman is Vice President Bai from Huahui Bank’s provincial branch, in charge of lending—she wields significant power. The tall man leading the group is President Liu, also from the Huahui Bank provincial branch. As for the others, I don’t know them, but I assume they’re also executives of the same bank.”

Among those present, only he had identified this group, and Zhao Weidong felt a bit proud.

It was quite a coincidence he knew Vice President Bai and President Liu. Recently, when his family sought funds for expansion, they secured a loan from Huahui Bank. He had accompanied his father on several visits and had the good fortune to meet both.

“Bank presidents! The tycoon’s circle really is something else!” Sang Qingye exclaimed in surprise.

Even He Jiayi and Gu Weiwei were deeply impressed. They had already suspected Xiao Yao’s identity was extraordinary, but they hadn’t expected the first guests to be such heavyweights.

They eagerly anticipated who else might arrive.

All three were genuine second-generation wealthy heirs, well-versed in social circles. If they were this curious, the viewers in the live chat were even more so.

Sang Qingye’s live broadcast topic today was very appealing. Xiao Yao, the tycoon, was well-known in her stream. After some promotion, his new restaurant, “Xunwei Zhai,” had gained some fame. Showing the tycoon’s circle through the guests attending the opening was very attractive to her audience.

Sure enough, the tycoon’s circle did not disappoint. The first guests were high-ranking bank executives, which heightened everyone’s anticipation for the rest.

Not long after, Chen Xingwen arrived, leading another group into the venue.