Chapter 401: Hunting In The City (2/2)

Mr. Zhao looked as if he had been slapped in the face. He faltered, ”Aren’t you here to talk about cooperation?”

”This is also a form of cooperation,” smiled Xiaotao. “So please cooperate with our investigation.”

A trace of panic flashed across his face. After taking a seat once more, he wiped away the sweat on his forehead with a paper towel. ”Has my son caused trouble again...”

”No, Uncle Zhao, don’t worry. Young Master Zhao hasn’t done anything disorderly. He’s merely related to one of our cases,” came Xiaotao’s cryptic reply.

I was laughing inside, Sure, Zhao Dapeng didn’t do anything disorderly. He directly violated the criminal law of the People's Republic of China!

With Xiaotao’s reassurance, Mr. Zhao lay everything bare as he spoke about Zhao Dapeng. When Zhao Dapeng was a child, Mr. Zhao and his wife got divorced. Dedicated to his work, he had no time to spare for his child. His only form of compensation was a huge allowance.

Zhao Dapeng's relationship with his father was stiff from early on. He wouldn’t even call him ”Dad.” The most he could last in a conversation with his father was three sentences before losing his temper.

Even in adulthood, Zhao Dapeng spent all day fooling around with his friends. He was already in his twenties yet had no serious job. Apart from asking for money, father and son had little contact.

”Have you met his friends?” I asked.

Mr. Zhao shook his head, ”Dapeng and I rarely meet, let alone his friends! I heard some rumors about those friends of his. Apparently, they often bring him to shady places to have fun. Alas, who can understand the heart of a parent? He’s got me so worried even my hair has turned white. But what can I do?”

I couldn’t resist scoffing at his feigned dolour. It was obvious he raised his son that way and was playing the martyr. None of the criminals I ever met had a normal, happy family.

”Can we speak to him?” asked Xiaotao.

”Yes, of course,” nodded Mr. Zhao. “But I have to ask, are you really not here to arrest him? If he has done something wrong, I’ll contact my lawyer immediately to deal with it.”

”Look, I didn't bring my gun and handcuffs today,” said Xiaotao, opening her coat. “It’s a private visit. I didn't come here to arrest him.”

Once again, I was fighting back laughter. Xiaotao had hidden all her equipment behind her in the elevator. She had the makings of an Oscar winner.

Mr. Zhao breathed a sigh of relief, ”Alright then, I'll call him!”

As soon as the call went through, father and son began yelling before even speaking three words. From the other end of the line came Zhao Dapeng’s raised voice, ”I won't see any important guests! I don't want to take over your stupid restaurant. Don't try to pull me into your business.”

”Whatever! It’s up to you!” retorted Mr. Zhao. “Come over right now. I’ll pass you next month’s allowance!”

”Don't try to trick me so I’ll go over. Just transfer it into my account. God knows what the hell you’re thinking, you old fart!”

Xiaotao and I exchanged a look of consternation. It seemed we were dealing with a stubborn and obstreperous young man.

”You little fucker!” Mr. Zhao swore into the phone, fuming with anger. “If you don't come right now, I'll freeze your credit card. Do whatever you want then!” Upon hanging up, his expression hastily shifted. Turning to Xiaotao and me, he said, ”My apologies, I’ve embarrassed myself!”

While waiting, we had a few cups of tea as Xiaotao chatted with Mr. Zhao about business matters. Although she wasn’t actually involved in business, regular exposure to it gave her unique insights in this respect. Mr. Zhao nodded as he listened to her speak, repeatedly expressing his desire to cooperate with the Huang family if the opportunity ever arose.