The Tyrant Billionaire-Chapter 668 Andy’s Date!

The following day, Andy sent a car to pick up Maryam, and they toured Penang together.

They explored bustling streets and sampled various local delicacies.

Maryam introduced him to the region’s customs.

The itinerary was simple, but the two enjoyed their conversations.

Meanwhile, at the Governor’s mansion, a report was being delivered to Hardy.

"Sir, yesterday President Andy visited the Haji family. Today, he toured Penang with Miss Haji Maryam. He seemed to be in great spirits."

"Have you investigated the Haji family thoroughly?" Hardy asked.

Andy was not only the CEO of Hardy Group but also Hardy’s most trusted associate. His importance to the group meant that Hardy closely monitored his situation to ensure nothing went awry.

"The Haji family are among Penang’s top merchant families, operating hotels, rubber plantations, processing plants, timber mills, and paper production enterprises. Their assets are valued between $2 million and $3 million. They’re also members of Hardy Investment Company."

"And the girl?"

"Her full name is Haji Maryam. She’s 19 years old, the fourth of Haji Omar’s seven children—three sons and four daughters. She has two elder brothers and one elder sister who is married. Below her are a younger brother and two younger sisters. She’s currently studying economics at the University of Hong Kong and returned home for vacation. Before attending university, she lived and studied in Penang."

Hardy reviewed the details and picked up a photograph on his desk.

The girl was fair-skinned, with bright, expressive eyes, rivaling Irina in charm.

Andy had suffered greatly in the past due to his wife cheating and tragic death, which led to his imprisonment. Although Hardy had rescued him and cleared his name, Andy remained deeply wounded in matters of the heart.

Hardy had often encouraged Andy to find love again, but Andy never responded. Now, seeing him open up to a girl was noteworthy.

Hardy thought to himself that a gentle and traditional Malaysian girl might be perfect for Andy. A woman like that could help heal Andy’s wounded heart.

In contrast, the free-spirited and independent nature woman didn’t seem suitable for Andy in his current state.

...

Haji Maryam was wearing a white spaghetti-strap dress. The upper part was plain white, while the skirt was adorned with blue patterns.

She wore no jewelry around her neck, leaving her collarbone lightly exposed by the straps. She had on a pair of flat sandals. Haji Maryam, at approximately 1.65 meters tall, was not short, but standing next to Andy, who towered at 1.9 meters, she appeared petite.

"Then there are the Malays celebrating Hari Raya and Raya Puasa, and the Indians celebrating Deepavali. You think it’s chaotic right?"

Andy shook his head. "Freedom of belief is a good thing."

Haji Maryam smiled.

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"It’s almost noon. Would you like me to take you to try some of Penang’s specialty snacks? I’m not sure if someone as important as you would enjoy them," Haji Maryam said teasingly.

"Sure, I’m here to experience the local flavors," Andy replied.

They arrived at a small restaurant run by locals and found a table to sit down. Haji Maryam chatted with the owner in Malay and quickly ordered several dishes.

"What did you order?" Andy asked.

"Given how tall you are, I figured you’d have a big appetite, so I ordered a few more dishes: satay, and Penang prawn noodles, and ..... The prawn noodles are especially delicious," Haji Maryam replied.

"I don’t understand a word of that," Andy said.

"The names don’t really translate well," Haji Maryam said. "I’ll explain when the food arrives."

Before long, the dishes were served. Haji Maryam introduced them to Andy. Satay was a type of grilled meat skewer. The braised pork came as part of a platter and paired well with the prawn noodles.

Teochew cendol, on the other hand, was a dessert made of green jelly noodles, soft red beans, and other toppings, combined with shaved ice and coconut milk.

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"How is it? Do you like it?" Haji Maryam eagerly asked as Andy took a bite.

Andy nodded. "I like it very much."

Seeing how much he enjoyed the food, Haji Maryam’s eyes curved into a smile. "I told you, Teochew cendol is the best! I love it too. And this place serves the best ones—it’s been around for decades in Penang."

After finishing their meal, they prepared to pay.

Andy, feeling awkward, realized he hadn’t brought any money. As a prominent CEO, he was used to having several assistants and secretaries around to handle such matters.

Just as he was about to call his bodyguard from afar, Haji Maryam interjected, "I brought you out today, I’ll treat." She pulled out a small fabric wallet from the side of her dress, unzipped it, and took out some cash to pay the owner.

For the first time in his life, Andy was treated to a meal by a woman. It left him with a sweet feeling, even sweeter than the Teochew cendol.

"Next time, it’s on me," Andy said.

"Okay," Haji Maryam agreed with a smile.

In the afternoon, they strolled along the commercial street. Penang only had one main commercial street at the time, lined with two- and three-story buildings. Outside the shops were signs advertising jobs.

They entered one of the shops. Haji Maryam remarked, "Ever since Governor Hardy came, Penang has undergone significant changes. Take goods, for example. Penang used to have a limited selection, but now there’s so much more variety."

"There are even American, Hong Kong, and Japanese products. While goods are no longer scarce, I think the quality of our shopping malls could be improved."

Andy’s interest was piqued.

"Oh? Tell me more about your thoughts."

Realizing she might have said too much, Haji Maryam hesitated and replied shyly, "I was just speaking casually. Governor Hardy and you, having established such a massive commercial group, must already see these things clearly."

"No worries. Go on, I’d like to hear your perspective," Andy encouraged.

After a brief moment of contemplation, Haji Maryam boldly said, "I’ve seen magazines from Hong Kong that describe American commercial streets. They concentrate shopping malls along a single street, creating a true commercial hub. I feel that’s the direction of the future."

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