With the secretary supporting the situation, combined with Liu Zhizhong and Zhang Hongyang bringing fresh meat as gifts, it did help somewhat.

So, Mrs. Meng's anger diminished a bit.

Of course, Liu Zhizhong wields considerable influence within the province. His voice is charmingly magnetic and gentle, his demeanor sincere, and he's also quite handsome and sunny, which tends to win favor from women.

Yet, Mrs. Meng still maintained her stance, and coldly remarked, "My husband has suffered terribly and just managed to fall asleep. You won't be able to see him! Do you honestly think that by sending some poultry and beef this issue will just go away? Let me tell you, it's not that simple! As for you, Liu Zhizhong, you're not to be blamed; this really has little to do with you. The main issue is with Zhang Hongyang. I couldn't care less about your ties to the Yangzhou officialdom. This isn't going to pass easily for you, hmph hmph..."

Seeing this, Liu Zhizhong promptly signaled Zhang Hongyang with a discreet glance.

Zhang Hongyang's reaction was incredibly swift as he dropped to his knees with a loud thud, his knees banging audibly against the wooden floor.

He was prostrated before Mrs. Meng, almost close enough to catch the fragrance emanating from her elegant winter skirt and black stockings.

But at this moment, tears streamed down his face as he bowed his head repeatedly and apologized, "Mrs. Meng, please calm your anger; Zhang Hongyang acknowledges his mistake! I originally intended to give Governor Meng a relaxing retreat, where he could fish and enjoy himself. Everything was going pleasantly, but who could have foreseen the big fish that got away, inadvertently causing a grave mistake? I am filled with regret and immense pain. After it happened, I was frantic and passed out, deeply concerned for the governor's well-being!"

"My oversight has subjected the governor to immense hardship and suffering, for which I am profoundly remorseful! No matter what, Zhang Hongyang will take full responsibility, never shirking or avoiding it. I've come here to bear my burden and admit my guilt. I earnestly ask Mrs. Meng to accept my apology."

As he spoke, he lifted his head, his forehead bruised from bowing, nearly on the verge of fainting.

The tearful display was sincerely pitiable.

Even the secretary from the Meng family chimed in, "Oh, County Head Zhang, what is this all for? Why go through this? Please stand up, please stand…"

But Mrs. Meng, oh, this tactic honestly felt exceptionally satisfying to her.

So what if he's a big man, a county mayor? Does he not have to kneel and beg for mercy before me?

But is mere kneeling and bowing enough?

Yet, Zhang Hongyang then pulled out a bank card from his bag, a distinctive one, embossed with foreign writing, holding it up with both hands, saying, "This is my international bank card; from it, I can transfer 2 million US dollars to Mrs. Meng as an expression of my remorse, to compensate Governor Meng's suffering. Please provide the relevant account details; I can transfer it immediately. Will you grant me this chance?"

The offer of 2 million US dollars did indeed astonish both Mrs. Meng and the Meng family secretary.

Internally, Mrs. Meng was undoubtedly pleased, realizing it was quite beneficial.

As for the Meng family secretary, he found the gesture genuinely thoughtful, believing it to be sufficient.

But who could have guessed, Mrs. Meng would coldly retort, "Zhang Hongyang, keep your stinking money! Do you think you can test our provincial leaders and their families with this? Your issue isn't minor; once Old Meng recovers, you'll be held accountable!"

"Ah?" Zhang Hongyang was truly disheartened...