Wen Bao considered himself to be assisting Xie Peng and Zhang Hongyang, not wanting to watch a bunch of officials push responsibilities around.

As a representative of foreign investment, handling this special situation with a special approach didn't seem problematic.

So, everyone sat down and opened the food, which was still warm. The services in Shanan's big hotels had improved as well, using thermal boxes to keep the food steaming hot for quite a while.

Once the dishes were laid out, Liu Zhizhong focused on Xie Peng, and with a wry smile, said: "Director Xie, do you call this 'simple meal'? It's too extravagant, isn't it?"

Zhang Hongyang, with a hint of a smile, quickly replied: "Secretary Liu, it's just Director Xie's good intentions, not a bribe, right? Since it's already here, and everyone has agreed, it's meaningless to discuss the price of the food in front of Mr. Wen!"

Seeing his master's support, Xie Peng felt quite pleased. He quickly offered a few kind words, and the conversation passed smoothly.

Hamuer suggested that everyone start eating while he added more materials to the charcoal fire.

Xie Peng, being observant, promptly said, "Secretary, let me help you!"

Then, he busied himself alongside Hamuer.

Initially, three charcoal fire pots were enough, but with more people arriving, another one was set up.

Four people sat around a table, with a charcoal pot on each corner — perfect!

Though the weather was quite cold, the warmth around the table felt just right.

Accompanied by fine wine and delicious food, the meal was quite enjoyable.

This was a unique fishing spot, envied by anglers on the opposite bank. Some even vowed to come earlier next time and secure this spot, which was just empty talk and dreaming.

This spot was exclusive to Liu Zhizhong, and neither his nor Wen Bao's equipment was ever removed, haha...

Of course, the dinner was nice, but mostly ceremonious.

Wen Bao focused on eating, sipping a bit of wine noncommittally. He didn't take the opportunity or bother to ask why Xie Peng's mother hadn't come.

Yet their past, including imagined conflicts, was discussed over the table, with Xie Peng apologizing and expressing hope to join forces with Mr. Wen for Shanan's future.

Wen Bao didn't say much, only mentioned that noble friendships were as light as water, hoping Xie Peng would be true to his word, for the sake of Shanan's better development.

It seemed their relationship eased a bit, making the dinner more harmonious.

But Liu Zhizhong still talked work with Zhang Hongyang, as he happened to have something to discuss with him.

It was when the meal was almost over that Liu Zhizhong said to Zhang Hongyang: "County Head Zhang, have you noticed there are more and more people coming to Shanan for fishing?"

At this, Zhang Hongyang didn't dare to dismiss anglers as fools anymore and nodded, "Yes, quite a few indeed. This shows our Shanan's popularity, attracting people from all over! That's a good thing, a good thing! Haha..."

Liu Zhizhong smiled slightly but thought to himself: Foolishness is indeed foolishness, only seeing one side and ignoring the other!

Then Liu Zhizhong said: "County Head Zhang's summary is good, but we as leaders of the County Committee and County Government must also pay attention to the negative aspects here!"

Zhang Hongyang frowned, then gave a fake yet seemingly sincere smile, "Secretary Liu, I don't quite understand! Isn't it good to have more anglers, boosting local economic development and spreading our reputation? What's negative about that?"