Chapter 981

Hongyun’s opening was a huge success; Shanghai’s news media covered it extensively, with TV stations rushing to produce special segments, primarily interviewing the lucky winners of the car raffle and secondarily other prize recipients of refrigerators, color TVs, and washing machines.

This successfully brought the Hongyun brand into the public eye, and with sustained popularity, the direct-sales store on Nanjing Road was packed every day

So the business performance after opening was quite impressive.

The business performance since opening has been quite good.

Not only in Shanghai, but even if Wang Yan’s clothes couldn’t be sold elsewhere, he still bought newspaper ads in economically developed cities like Beijing, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou, where local papers republished Shanghai’s ads.

Not only in Shanghai, but even if Wang Yan’s clothes couldn’t sell elsewhere, he bought news coverage in economically developed cities like Beijing, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou, where local outlets republished the Shanghai reports.

Brand recognition was certainly impossible to achieve, but he just wanted people to have some vague memory—like that guy who gave away cars in a lottery.

Brand recognition couldn’t possibly take off, but he wanted people to have some vague memory—like the guy who gave away cars in a lottery.

Of course, it’s predictable that lottery giveaways for cars would only increase, but for many people, hearing about it for the first time leaves a lasting impression—that’s enough. By the time the direct sales stores open, people will already have some recollection, which achieves the goal.

Of course, it’s predictable that more and more people will run lottery giveaways for cars. But for many, hearing it for the first time leaves a deeper impression—that’s enough. When the direct-sales stores open, even a faint memory will suffice.

Although there was only one store, and it lost money every day, Wang Yan was still gradually expanding his factory scale and training skilled workers, planning as if he intended to cover all 297 prefecture-level cities and municipalities nationwide. Even major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen couldn’t possibly have just one store.

Though he had only one store and lost money daily, Wang Yan was still gradually expanding his factory and training skilled workers, planning to cover all 297 prefecture-level cities and municipalities nationwide. Even in megacities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, one store wouldn’t be enough.

So Wang Yan bought three more commercial properties: two on Sichuan North Road and Huaihai Middle Road in Shanghai, and one on Wangfujing in Beijing; later, he planned to open two more in Xidan and Sanlitun in Beijing. This was arranged with the state team, since he was a legitimate sponsor—but if no one knew about his shoes and apparel, it would be utterly ridiculous.

So Wang Yan bought three new storefronts: two on Sichuan North Road and Huaihai Middle Road in Shanghai, and one on Wangfujing in Beijing. He planned to open two more in Beijing’s Xidan and Sanlitun. This was agreed upon with the national team—he was a legitimate sponsor, but if no one knew about his shoes and clothes, it would be absurd.

But Wang Yan didn’t need to worry about these details. Though he had no capable staff, he made do with whoever was available and delegated cleanly. The renovation blueprints for the direct sales stores were preserved, with clear requirements—just minor local adjustments while maintaining overall uniformity. Staff training was already standardized; he kept hiring from the first store and promoted experienced employees to store managers.

But Wang Yan didn’t need to worry about these matters. Though he had no capable staff, he picked the best from the available and handed things off cleanly. The renovation blueprints for the direct-sales stores were saved, with clear requirements—minor local adjustments, but overall consistency maintained. He’d already set the staff training template, continuously hiring from the first store and sending experienced employees out as store managers.

The production work at the shoe and apparel factory required even less of his attention. He had sketched countless designs in his spare time, and even with just one new collection per year while preserving classic styles, he could sustain releases for thirty years. Add in the output from newly hired designers, and it was more than sufficient for a long time. Quality control was a matter of procedure and attitude—he made occasional unannounced visits, docked wages, and fired people when necessary, and the issues were manageable.

The production at the shoe and apparel factory required even less of his attention. He’d doodled countless designs in his spare time; even with classic styles preserved, releasing one new collection per year could last thirty years. Add in the output from newly hired designers, and supply would last a long time. Quality issues were a matter of process and attitude—he’d make surprise visits, dock wages, fire people, and cycle through consequences as needed. No big deal.

For operations, he just checked financial reports and strolled around the stores—he knew everything, effortlessly.

For operations, he’d just check the financial reports and stroll through the stores—he knew everything, effortlessly.

At the seasoning factory, Jin Bao’s mother had smoothly transitioned from a housewife to general manager. The barbecue seasoning was still manually mixed, but the workforce had expanded to dozens, yet not a single leak had occurred—Jin Bao’s mother had truly mastered control.

At the seasoning plant, Jin Bao’s mother had smoothly transitioned from housewife to general manager. The barbecue seasoning was still mixed by hand, but the workforce had expanded to dozens—yet not a whisper had leaked. Jin Bao’s mother had truly mastered control.

She set up a dedicated assembly line: the first few workers were trustworthy, while others only knew two or three ingredient ratios. The mixture flowed through this system until the final product was produced and sent to the packaging workshop. Moreover, all their family members worked at the factory, and wages were extremely generous—everything possible had been done.

She set up a dedicated assembly line: the first few workers were trustworthy; others knew only two or three ratios. The mixture flowed through the line, finally becoming the finished product sent to the packaging workshop. All their family members also worked at the factory, and wages were absurdly high—she’d done everything possible.

The money Wang Yan lost on clothing and spent opening new stores came from here.

The money Wang Yan lost on apparel and spent opening new stores came from here.

Additionally, Jin Bao’s mother had begun producing other seasonings, starting with monosodium glutamate, sesame oil, and soybean oil. These weren’t bundled with the barbecue seasoning, but customers typically tried them out—and sales were quite good. Production was being actively scaled up, and products were being distributed to urban markets for direct consumer sales.

Jin Bao’s mother had also begun producing other seasonings, starting with chicken bouillon, sesame oil, and soybean oil. She didn’t bundle them with the barbecue seasoning—buyers usually tried them separately, and sales were solid. She was actively ramping up production, distributing to cities, and selling directly to consumers.

As for Bei Di, the barbecue seasoning and iced tea were selling exceptionally well. The iced tea was especially popular, since the barbecue seasoning was exclusively exported to Hong Kong and couldn’t be resold on the mainland. But iced tea was different—people there loved it. Within just a few months, she had made a fortune in Hong Kong, Macau, Guangdong, and Guangxi. Now, the factory in Shenzhen was nearly complete, and with Wang Yan’s occasional suggestions, the beverage had already been developed.

Then there was Bei Di—barbecue seasoning and iced tea were selling phenomenally. Especially the iced tea: barbecue seasoning was exclusively exported to Hong Kong and couldn’t be resold inland, but iced tea was different—people there loved it. In just a few months, she’d made a fortune in Hong Kong, Macau, Guangdong, and Guangxi. The Shenzhen factory was nearly complete, and the beverage had been developed under Wang Yan’s occasional hints.

Once the factory was operational, iced tea sales would begin—not just in Hong Kong, Macau, Guangdong, and Guangxi, but across the entire nation and eventually all of Asia. After further research, he might even buy a spring source and become a “transporter of nature”—the future looked bright.

Once the factory launched, she’d start selling the iced tea—not just in Hong Kong, Macau, and the two Guangs, but nationwide and across all of Asia. She’d look into buying a spring source too, becoming a humble carrier of nature’s bounty. The future was bright.

From Bei Di’s profits, Wang Yan also withdrew some funds—but instead of using them to buy more commercial properties or open direct sales stores, he purchased a warehouse on the city’s outskirts and stockpiled various supplies.

Wang Yan also drew some money from Bei Di. But instead of buying more storefronts or opening direct-sales stores, he purchased a warehouse in the suburbs and stockpiled various supplies.

The old brother was about to pass away; he had to see him off.

The elder brother was dying—he had to see him off.

Although the situation had long been deteriorating and internal economic problems were severe, Wang Yan didn’t rush to grab money. After all, how much is enough? What did he need a bicycle for? He planned to rest, and wouldn’t act until after the New Year…

Though things had long been off and internal economic problems severe, Wang Yan didn’t rush to grab money. What’s the point of chasing more? What did he need a bicycle for? He planned to rest, then act after the New Year…

At the entrance of Yedongjing, Wang Yan set up his camera on a tripod, focused it, adjusted the timer, then ran over to join the crowd outside the store, crouching beside the chubby kid. With a click, the moment was captured.

At the entrance of Yedongjing, Wang Yan set up the camera on its tripod, focused, adjusted the timer, then sprinted into the crowd below the store, crouched beside Little Fat, and—click—the shot froze.

“Alright, let’s go inside.”

“Alright, come inside, come inside.”

“Oh, Boss Wang, one photo isn’t enough! Who blinked? Who had a crooked smile? We need two more, two more, okay?” Lingzi waved her hand dismissively, urging Wang Yan to take more pictures.

“Oh, Boss Wang, one photo isn’t reliable! Who blinked? Who had a crooked mouth? No one knows. Take two more, take two more, okay?”

Wang Yan smiled but said nothing, ran back to reload the film camera, set up self-timer shots, and took six photos before finishing.

Wang Yan smiled, said nothing, ran back, loaded the film, took six self-portraits, and finally finished.

Tao Tao stood there, watching Wang Yan pack up the tripod and camera, and sighed: “Boss Wang is living the good life now—carrying his camera everywhere, taking pictures, nothing lacking. Truly enviable.”

Tao Tao stood watching Wang Yan pack up the tripod and camera, sighing: “Boss Wang’s got it easy now—every day he wanders around with his camera, snapping photos, nothing lacking. Truly enviable.”

“We envy you, though—you have family to go home to for the New Year, unlike us: two orphans, one elderly person, and one whose father has another family.”

“We’re the ones who should envy you—you’ve got family for the New Year. Unlike us: two orphans, one old man, and one guy whose own father has another family.”

When Wang Yan said “orphan,” he meant himself and Linghong. The father with another family was naturally Lingzi—her mother had died early, her father remarried, and at over thirty, heading toward forty, she had no intention of returning to that household.

When Wang Yan said “orphaned,” he meant himself and Ling Hong. The one with a living father who had another family was naturally Lingzi—her mother died early, her father remarried, and at over thirty, heading toward forty, she had no intention of going back.

Teacher Ge nodded vigorously, stepping into the store: “Little Northeast is right—you’ve got a wife and family. Why are you hanging out at Yedongjing during the New Year?”

Teacher Ge nodded vigorously, stepping inside: “Little Northeast is right—you’ve got a wife and family. Why are you here at Yedongjing during the New Year?”

“Oh, I’m a son-in-law! I don’t celebrate with my biological parents. At Fangmei’s place, all her aunts and uncles come over—just Fangmei alone is enough to exhaust me; imagine if there were dozens of Fangmeis—I’d die!”

“Oh, I’m a son-in-law who moved in. I don’t go to my real parents’ for New Year. Fangmei’s side? All her aunts and cousins come over. One Fangmei’s enough to torture me—so many Fangmeis? I’d die.”

Linghong scoffed: “You don’t know how good you’ve got it.”

Ling Hong scoffed: “You don’t know how good you’ve got it.”

“What good fortune? I say he’s just lazy. Wandering around here and there, ignoring his own business—everything’s handled by Fangmei. I’ve never heard Fangmei complain about you—except that she’s worried you’re chasing after other women. And yet you keep whining, ‘I’m gonna die, I’m gonna die!’—I don’t get why Fangmei even likes you.”

“What’s ‘not knowing your luck’? I say he’s just idle. Wandering around here and there, ignoring home duties—all the work falls on Fangmei. I’ve never heard her complain about you—except that she’s worried you’re chasing after other women. And you? Every day you moan ‘I’m gonna die, I’m gonna die.’ I don’t get what Fangmei sees in you.”

“Lingzi’s right, Tao Tao—you should go home. Fangmei will be heartbroken,” Teacher Ge urged.

“Lingzi’s right, Tao Tao. If you don’t go back, Fangmei will be heartbroken,” Teacher Ge urged.

“Only this year did I meet you guys. Every other year I was home listening to them chant. Now I come here and still have to listen to you chant—I’m done for. Fine, fine, stop nagging me—I’ll leave after lunch. Honestly… the world’s too big, and there’s no place for me. I’d rather turn into a little bird…”

“I only met you this year. Every other year I’ve been home listening to them chant sermons. And now I come here and still have to listen to you preach? I’m gonna die. Fine, fine, stop scolding me—I’ll go back after lunch. Honestly… the world’s so big, there’s no place for me. I’d rather turn into a little bird…”

Linghong replied: “I’d shoot you down with a slingshot and roast you over a fire. You’ve got no education, pretending to be cultured, writing poetry—get lost, get lost…”

Ling Hong cut in: “I’d shoot you down with a slingshot and roast you over a fire. You’ve got no brains, pretending to be cultured, even writing poetry—get lost, get lost…”

“Like you’re educated? You’re just serving noodles in a Japanese ramen shop!”

“As if you’re cultured—you just served dishes in a Japanese ramen shop.”

“I serve noodles, but I don’t write poetry. You’re a fishmonger—what are you pretending to be?”

“I served dishes but never wrote poetry. You’re a fish seller—what are you pretending to be?”

“I sell seafood—do you understand seafood?”

“I sell seafood—do you understand seafood?”

“I’m asking: does seafood include fish?”

“I just ask you: does seafood include fish?”

…Tao Tao picked up the Huaqiao cigarettes Wang Yan had left on the table, lit one, exhaled slowly, and grew pensive: “We’re bickering here, but Bao and Postage Li are still in Shenzhen—strangers in a strange land, with not a single acquaintance.”

…Tao Tao picked up the Huazhi cigarettes Wang Yan had tossed on the table, lit one, exhaled slowly, and grew melancholy: “We’re bickering here, but poor Abao and Postage Li are still in Shenzhen—strangers in a strange land, not knowing a single soul.”

“Bao’s got parents, doesn’t he? Even if he’s in Shanghai, he won’t come here,” Lingzi waved dismissively. “You’re a fishmonger—come here, clean these fish for me.”

“Abao’s got parents, right? Even if he’s in Shanghai, he won’t come here,” Lingzi waved dismissively. “Aren’t you a fish seller? Come on, clean these fish for me.”

“These are seafood, not fish!”

“These are seafood, okay?”

……

…

Jintianwangyanshidachu ， Guonianlema ， Suiranzaiyedongjingyemeiyoumangdeshihou ， Danshichushixiaoheshang ， Fuwuyuanxiaowen 、 Xiaoqinsanrenyezongyaofangjiade ， Suoyiwangdashifudangrenburang ， Youshiqinzishangshou ， Caodaoguoniandemeishi 。

Today Wang Yan was the head chef. It was the New Year—even though Yedongjing was never busy, the cook Xiao Monk and waitresses Xiao Wen and Xiao Qin still needed time off, so Master Wang took charge without hesitation, personally preparing the holiday feast.

Nowadays, there was no weekend system, no alternating weeks, and the Spring Festival holiday lasted only three days. But as boss, Wang Yan was always lenient—he usually gave two days off per week, since most workers were locals and foreigners didn’t go home, so the New Year break was extended to seven days.

They still didn’t have weekends, nor the alternating-week system. The Spring Festival holiday was only three days. But as boss, Wang Yan was always lenient—he gave everyone weekends normally, since most workers were locals and outsiders didn’t go home anyway, so the holiday was extended to seven days.

The main reason, of course, was that production demands were light—the shoe and apparel factory was losing money, so shutting down machines actually reduced losses. The seasoning factory was the same: except for essential staff, nearly everyone took leave. But Jin Bao’s mother, uneasy, visited daily to check for safety hazards.

Of course, the main reason was low production pressure—the shoe and apparel factory was losing money anyway, so shutting down machines during the holiday meant even less loss. The seasoning plant was the same: everyone was off except a few essential staff. But Jin Bao’s mother, uneasy, visited daily to check for safety hazards.

As for Hong Kong and Shenzhen, Wang Yan left everything to Bei Di.

As for Hong Kong and Shenzhen, Wang Yan left it all to Bei Di.

Wang Yan was chopping ingredients while a pot bubbled away—things to be fried—its aroma already filling the air.

Wang Yan chopped seasonings; the pot bubbled with things to be fried—the aroma had already filled the air.

“Boss Wang’s cooking skills are excellent,” Tao Tao inhaled deeply, unafraid of the heat, grabbed some fried food, took a bite, and didn’t hoard it—he shared a piece with the chubby kid beside him.

“Boss Wang’s cooking is excellent,” Tao Tao inhaled deeply, unafraid of the heat, grabbed a fried morsel, tasted it, and didn’t hoard it—he shared a piece with Little Fat beside him.

He said: “On the fourth day, we welcome the God of Wealth—want to go out and have some fun?”

He said: “On the fourth day we welcome the God of Wealth—want to go out and have some fun then?”

“Can’t. I have to go to Hong Kong the day after tomorrow.”

“Can’t go,” Wang Yan shook his head. “I have to go to Hong Kong the day after tomorrow.”

“Why are you going to Hong Kong again?” Lingzi asked.

“What for again, Hong Kong?” Lingzi asked.

Linghong said: “You don’t know? Boss Wang has a company over there. If you don’t check in for so long, what if someone swindles him?”

Ling Hong said: “You’ve forgotten? Boss Wang has a company over there. If you don’t check in for so long, what if someone swindles him?”

Wang Yan smiled and nodded: “That’s about right. Besides, if I don’t show up, it doesn’t look good—future development needs planning. After the New Year, things will get busy.”

Wang Yan nodded with a smile: “That’s about right. Besides, if I don’t show up, it looks bad. I need to plan for the future. After the New Year, things will get busy.”

“Busy losing money?” Teacher Ge asked sincerely.

“Busy losing money?” Teacher Ge asked sincerely.

Wang Yan didn’t mind, smiling and shaking his head: “If you lack long-term vision, you’ll face immediate troubles. You’ve got to lay the groundwork for the future—aim to live a simple, rent-collecting life like yours, old man.”

Wang Yan didn’t mind, smiling and shaking his head: “If you lack long-term planning, you’ll face immediate troubles. You’ve got to lay the groundwork for the future—aim to live a simple, rent-collecting life like you, old man.”

“Speaking of rent collection…” Lingzi gestured toward Wang Yan, “Boss Wang, your villa on Julu Road should be renovated by now—moving in soon?”

“Ah, speaking of rent collection…” Lingzi tilted her head at Wang Yan. “Boss Wang, the Western-style house you bought on Julu Road should be renovated by now—aren’t you moving in?”

“Moving tomorrow. New year, new start.”

“Moving tomorrow. New year, new start.”

Teacher Ge said: “Let me be clear—the rent won’t be refunded.”

Teacher Ge said: “I’ll say it upfront—I’m not refunding your rent.”

Wang Yan chuckled: “Like I ever asked you for money when you drank.”

Wang Yan chuckled and shook his head: “As if I ever asked you for money when you drank.”

“Then I’ll help you move tomorrow, Boss Wang. Let’s all go see your new place. We all know you bought a house there, but we’ve never seen it—let’s get familiar with the address, so we don’t lose track of you later.”

“Then I’ll help you move tomorrow, Boss Wang. Let’s all go see your new place. We all know you bought a house there, but we’ve never seen it. Let’s get the address straight—so we don’t lose you later.”

Wang Yan raised an eyebrow: “Alright, Tao Tao—got guts now? Mocking me?”

Wang Yan raised an eyebrow: “Fine, Tao Tao—got guts now? Mocking me?”

“No, no, I’d never dare! I’m just worried that if something happens and I can’t reach you by phone…” Tao Tao grinned sheepishly, all charm.

“No no, I’d never dare! I’m just worried that if something happens later, I can’t reach you by phone.”

“We’ll see later. Your petty mind thinks I’m rich and look down on old friends—I can talk till I’m blue in the face and it won’t change your mind.”

“We’ll see later. Your petty mind thinks I’m rich and look down on old friends. No matter how hard I plead, it won’t change.”

Wang Yan waved him off: “I’m a boss worth millions, and yet I’m still cooking for you. Enough—get to work. We’re starting to cook now—clean up properly, no dawdling.”

Wang Yan waved him off: “I’m a multi-millionaire boss, and I’m still cooking for you? Enough. Get to work—we’re starting to cook now. Clean up properly, no dawdling.”

Tao Tao went back to cleaning the fish, muttering: “Boss Wang, have you called Bao? How’s he doing over there? Made any money?”

Tao Tao went back to clean the fish, sighing: “Boss Wang, did you call Abao? How’s he doing over there? Made any money?”

“You’ve been calling him every day again?”

“Again? You call him every day?”

“Ah… I’m just a small-time guy. Oh, Boss Wang, you don’t know—Fangmei checks the bankbook every few days. I secretly took money to invest for Bao, and within three days, she found out. She called Bao immediately—if Bao hadn’t already left, she’d have gone to chop him up.”

“Ah… I’m just a small fry—I can’t afford this. Oh, Boss Wang, you don’t know—Fangmei checks the bankbook every few days. I secretly took money to give to Abao for stocks, and within three days she found out. She called Abao right away—if he hadn’t already left, she’d have chopped him up.”

Wang Yan chuckled: “You’ve told me this eight hundred times—I know. I’ve said it before: don’t rush to make money. Stay calm.”

Wang Yan chuckled and nodded: “You’ve said it eight hundred times—I know. I’ve told you a hundred times: don’t rush to make money. Stay calm.”

“Oh, Boss Wang, you’re worth millions—losing a million doesn’t matter. My entire fortune is just 100,000 yuan—earned through sweat and early mornings selling seafood. If I lose it all, I’ll die—Fangmei will kill me too.”

“Oh, Boss Wang, you’re worth millions—losing a million doesn’t matter. My entire fortune is ten thousand—earned through sweat and toil selling seafood. If I lose it all, I’ll die. I don’t want to die, but Fangmei will chop me up anyway.”

Tao Tao kept muttering, while Wang Yan listened with a smile and worked diligently.

Tao Tao kept muttering; Wang Yan listened with a smile and worked diligently.

Meiyouleganhuoliluodexiaoheshangdengren ， Yedongjingzhebangrenganhuoduoduoshaoshaodeyekuailexie 。 Wangyanziranzuilisuo ， Yaoburangenzhebangrenyiqifandouchibushang 。

Without the efficient Xiao Monk and others, the Yedongjing crew worked a bit faster. Wang Yan was naturally the quickest—if he weren’t, he’d never get to eat with this lot.

Laughing and chatting, they finally sat down to lunch by noon.

They chatted and laughed until noon, finally sitting down to eat.

“Come on, everyone, raise your glasses—may the new year bring great fortune!” Lingzi grinned, showing her tiger teeth.

“Come on, everyone—drink up! May the new year bring great fortune!” Lingzi grinned, showing her tiger teeth.

This year had been full of good fortune for her: a man she met for half a day, hearing she wanted to open a restaurant called “Yedongjing” in Shanghai, actually made it happen over a year later. No one knew, no one understood, no one grasped how deeply moved she was when she received the letter from Shanghai, passed through intermediaries.

Because this year had been all good: a man she’d met for half a day, hearing she’d someday open a restaurant called “Yedongjing” in Shanghai, actually made it happen over a year later. No one knew, no one understood, no one grasped how deeply stirred she was when she received the letter from Shanghai, passed through a third party.

Wang Yan and the others honored her by raising their glasses, drinking heartily, then praising the chef’s cooking.

Wang Yan and the others honored her with raised glasses, drank heartily, then naturally praised the chef’s dishes.

Everyone was happy, but the happiest were Lingzi first, then Teacher Ge.

Everyone was happy, but the happiest were first Lingzi, then Teacher Ge.

The old man had found a group of laughing friends. Though there was an age gap, their daily bickering didn’t bother him. For the New Year, he wasn’t alone in his empty house, surrounded by cold leftovers, while others enjoyed fragrant feasts.

The old man had found a group of laughing friends. Though there was an age gap, the daily bickering didn’t matter. For New Year, he wasn’t alone—no longer sitting in his empty house while others’ homes smelled of feasts and he was left with scraps.

Next was Tao Tao—he had found a joyful refuge to escape household trivialities and the once-romantic Fangmei, who now only made him feel burdened.

Next was Tao Tao—he had a joyful haven to escape household drudgery and the fading memory of the once-romantic Fangmei, letting him relax.

As for Linghong, she was happy too—but her happiness came from the bustle and stability. Yet compared to the others, she was worse off: the poorest among them, dependent on Lingzi’s charity. Thinking back on the year, still so poor, it was hard to be truly joyful. But since everyone else was happy, she pushed her worries aside and joined in.

As for Ling Hong, she was happy too—but her joy came from the bustle and stability. Compared to others, she was worse off: the poorest of the group, dependent on Lingzi’s charity. Thinking back on another year of poverty, it was hard to be truly happy. But since everyone else was joyful, she forgot her troubles and joined in.

The New Year is truly a time for reflection. Whether you want to or not, when you realize the year is ending, on this final day, you can’t help but look back on your gains and losses—the sour, sweet, bitter, spicy, and salty all surge up together.

The New Year was truly a good time for reflection. Whether you wanted to or not, knowing the year had ended, on this final day, you couldn’t help but look back—sweet, sour, bitter, spicy, salty—all surged together.

Originally, they planned to make dumplings, cook tangyuan, and set off fireworks—but the group ended up laughing and crying from lunch until nightfall. In the end, only Wang Yan remained sober.

They’d planned dumplings, glutinous rice balls, and fireworks in the evening, but the group, laughing and crying, ate from noon until night. In the end, only Wang Yan remained sober.

He had no choice but to fetch Jin Bao’s mother, who had already returned home to enjoy time with her child, and asked her to support Linghong while he carried Lingzi and carried Teacher Ge on his back, escorting them all home.

He had no choice but to fetch Jin Bao’s mother, who’d already eaten and gone home to her child. She helped Ling Hong; Wang Yan supported Lingzi and carried Teacher Ge back.

After laying Lingzi on the bed and tucking her in, he was about to leave when, like a scene from countless movies, her hand grabbed his wrist: “Why do you always run away?”

He tossed Lingzi onto the bed, pulled the quilt over her, and turned to leave—when, like a cliché from a drama, her hand grabbed his wrist: “Why do you always run away?”

Wang Yan laughed, gently pried her hand loose, tucked it back under the covers, brushed her hair aside to reveal her face, carefully placed a glass of water on the bedside table, and then left.

Wang Yan laughed bitterly, pried her hand loose, tucked it back under the covers, brushed her hair aside to reveal her face, carefully poured a glass of water, placed it by the bedside, and left.

He returned to Yedongjing, shoved Tao Tao into the backseat of his car, and drove him back to Guling Road.

He returned to Yedongjing, shoved Tao Tao into the backseat, and drove him back to Guling Road.

“Oh, it’s New Year’s Day, and you drank so much—you’re gonna die! Thanks so much, Boss Wang.”

“Oh, it’s New Year’s Day, and you drank so much—you’re gonna die! Thanks so much, Boss Wang.”

Fangmei, seeing Tao Tao passed out in the backseat, slapped him twice before speaking to Wang Yan.

Fangmei stared at Tao Tao, a limp puddle in the backseat, slapped him twice before speaking to Wang Yan.

Wang Yan smiled: “Fangmei, I know Tao Tao took 100,000 yuan from your savings—he told me he wanted Bao to help him buy a minivan. But honestly, it’s my fault too—Bao didn’t hide it; he directly invited me to join, so I invested some money too. Tao Tao trusts Bao completely, and this time, Bao’s got a solid chance. Don’t worry—money will be back in three months.”

Wang Yan smiled: “Fangmei, I know Tao Tao took ten thousand from the bankbook—he said he wanted Abao to earn him a minivan. But honestly, it’s my fault too—Abao didn’t hide it; he pulled me in directly, so I chipped in too. Tao Tao trusts Abao completely, and this time Abao’s got a solid chance. Relax—money’ll be back in three months.”

“Boss Wang, you misunderstand. I trust Bao completely—I’m angry that Tao Tao never consults me. He’s always like this. And look at him—he’s never home, running around everywhere. I’m afraid he’ll start chasing other women now that he has more money.”

“Boss Wang, you misunderstand. I don’t doubt Abao—I’m angry Tao Tao never consults me. It’s always like this. Look at him—he’s never home, running around wild. I’m afraid that once he has more money, he’ll chase after other women.”

“But didn’t he sneak the bankbook anyway? When I bought my car, he told me he wanted a minivan and a mobile phone—but he didn’t steal money to buy them then. Only now, when Bao was going to Shenzhen to trade stocks, did he take the money. He may not understand stocks, but he understands Bao.”

“But didn’t he still steal the bankbook? Tao Tao knows his limits. When I bought my car, he told me he wanted a minivan and a pager—he didn’t steal money for those. Only now, when Abao’s going to Shenzhen for stocks, did he take the money. Don’t judge him for not understanding stocks—he understands Abao.”

After gently reassuring Fangmei and easing Tao Tao’s family tension, Wang Yan lifted Tao Tao out of the car, carried him inside, greeted Fangmei’s family, and then drove off…

Wang Yan gently soothed Fangmei, eased Tao Tao’s family tension, dragged him out of the car, carried him inside, greeted Fangmei’s family, then drove off…

Wang Yan had met Fangmei many times—she wasn’t unattractive, but she wasn’t gentle either; she was a fierce woman. Perhaps because Tao Tao was weak, she had to be strong—complementary, in a way. She was certainly no problem: hardworking, patient, and often considerate of Tao Tao’s feelings in public.

Wang Yan had seen Fangmei many times—she wasn’t unattractive, but she wasn’t gentle either; a tough woman. Perhaps because Tao Tao was weak, she had to be strong—complementary, in a way. She was fine: hardworking, willing to endure hardship, often considerate of Tao Tao’s feelings in public.

But Tao Tao wasn’t easy either—he was restless and impulsive, always provoking Fangmei into making him kneel on a rice sack. Of course, he never admitted it—Bao exposed his secrets, and only then did everyone learn.

But Tao Tao wasn’t easy either—he was restless and impulsive, always provoking Fangmei into making him kneel on the laundry board. Of course, Tao Tao never admitted it—Abao exposed his secrets, and only then did everyone learn.

Also, fearing Tao Tao’s infidelity, Fangmei had frequent sex with him, believing that exhausting him ensured safety. This was Tao Tao’s own confession—he likely understood her motives, but he wouldn’t say it aloud, nor would he joke about his wife. Still, when Teacher Ge complained about his aging body, Tao Tao would rub his lower back and sigh about how time doesn’t spare anyone…

Also, fearing Tao Tao’s infidelity, Fangmei had frequent sex, believing that draining him ensured safety. This was Tao Tao’s own confession. He likely understood her motives, but he wouldn’t say it aloud—he’d never turn his wife into a punchline. Only when Teacher Ge complained about his aching limbs did Tao Tao rub his lower back and sigh: “Time doesn’t spare anyone…”

Wang Yan didn’t own much—he hadn’t bought many things here, just a few custom suits and leather shoes, some sportswear from his own clothing company, and a handful of books he’d picked up casually over time. He made two trips himself and loaded everything into his Santana.

Wang Yan owned little—he hadn’t bought much since arriving. Just a few tailored suits, leather shoes, and sportswear from his own company, plus some books he’d picked up casually. He made two trips alone and loaded everything into his Santana.

The hangover from last night meant the Yedongjing crew, who had been clamoring to see his new home, slept in and didn’t come to see him off. But he didn’t need them to. Wang Yan didn’t delay—he simply drove away.

The hangover from last night made those who’d insisted on visiting his new home sleep in—no one came to see him off. But he didn’t need them to. Wang Yan didn’t delay—he drove off immediately.

The new house was a typical old garden villa, completely renovated inside and out. The first-floor living room had been turned into a study: a large bookshelf, a big desk, a comfortable sofa, and a carpet. Beyond that, nothing remarkable—just landscaping, nothing new.

The new house was a typical old garden villa, fully renovated inside and out. The first-floor living room became a study: a massive bookshelf, a large desk, a comfortable sofa, a carpet laid down. Nothing else stood out—just gardening, nothing new.

Around nine, his mobile phone rang—it was Tao Tao, saying he’d come to help move, only to find the place empty, etc. In short, the entire Yedongjing crew ended up at Julu Road again.

At nine-thirty, the pager rang—it was Tao Tao. He said he’d come to help Wang Yan move, only to find the place empty. In the end, the entire Yedongjing crew showed up on Julu Road.

It seemed that the transformation from the original 20-square-meter apartment belonging to Teacher Ge into this elegant, modern villa made everyone reassess Wang Yan’s multi-million-dollar wealth—and the difference in their social standing. The group, who had arrived cheerfully, left with heavier hearts—even though Wang Yan still smiled as always.

It seemed that the house—once just a twenty-square-meter apartment belonging to Teacher Ge—had transformed into this elegant, upscale villa, making everyone reassess Wang Yan’s true wealth and their own relative status. Teacher Ge and the others had come happily, but left with heavier hearts—even as Wang Yan still smiled cheerfully.

“Do you think Little Northeast will ever really go back to Yedongjing?”

“Do you think Little Northeast will really go to Yedongjing someday?”

Ling Hong said, “Aren’t you usually pretty determined? This morning you were still asking me for a hundred yuan.”

“Our statuses are different now, Boss Wang isn’t the guy selling lamb skewers anymore—he’s worth millions, while we’ve got nothing, just laughing and joking around, can’t even talk properly anymore.”

Tao Tao sighed deeply, kicking a small stone off the path. “Money really is great—just look at Boss Wang’s house. If only I could live in a place like that someday. But don’t worry—I’ll definitely be different from Boss Wang. We’ll be lifelong friends.”

Ling Zi waved her hand dismissively. “Look at you all, going on and on. Don’t you know who Boss Wang is? He’s rich, sure, but didn’t he still celebrate the New Year with us? Didn’t he still cook for us and even deliver the food home? You saw him just now—has he changed at all? Isn’t he still the same?”

“Besides, what’s different between him now and two months ago? Doesn’t he still go out with his camera all day and sit at Yedongjing in the evening? I’m telling you, when Boss Wang isn’t busy, he’ll still come back to Yedongjing.”

“That’s because Boss Wang lives on Jinxian Road now—he’s moved to Julu Road. It’s far away, and he’s busy with work. Even if he remembers Yedongjing, he might not bother coming. If it were me, I’d probably forget about it entirely.”

Ling Hong pointed at Tao Tao. “Ah, so the truth finally came out.”

Ge Laoshi also scolded: “Just a moment ago you told us not to worry, said you’d never be like Xiao Dongbei, that you’d be lifelong friends. Two sentences later, you’re already forgetting about Yedongjing? Ling Zi, make him pay up—charge him for everything he ate and drank.”

“Oh come on, I just spoke without thinking. I was just trying to see things from Boss Wang’s perspective—why are you all so serious?”

“Enough, enough. All you do every day is argue—you’re driving me crazy. Nobody says anything else. Boss Wang himself said yesterday: no matter how we think of him, all the fancy talk won’t matter. You get it, right? He’s coming back. Want to make another bet?”

“No more betting.” Ge Laoshi waved his hand. “Those two are cheaters—nobody pays up.”

“I really don’t have any money—you know, when have I ever had more than twenty yuan on me?”

“Oh come on, I’m broke too—I’m living off Ling Zi’s handouts.”

Without realizing it, their conversation had veered off again—talking about how it’s bad luck to mention death during the New Year, whether getting rich is good or bad, rambling aimlessly with no central theme, just going wherever the talk took them…

Wang Yan didn’t care about the traditional “warm pot” ceremony. He’d already celebrated the New Year with the Yedongjing crowd yesterday, and there was no point in repeating the same celebration. So he didn’t ask anyone to stay, nor did he trouble them to help clean up—the place was already tidy, all household items had been bought, and the bookshelves were full. He’d just packed his luggage for Hong Kong, and the move was done.

That night, he didn’t go to Yedongjing. Instead, he drove to Paigu Niangao. It had been months since he’d eaten there. Since he’d be leaving tomorrow and staying away for a long time, he figured he might as well stop by—eat if the place was open, leave if it wasn’t.

Lucky for him, the owner was hardworking—even on the first day of the New Year, the shop was open for business.

Lucky again—the window seat was occupied by Miss Wang, alone.

It really was coincidence. Including the three previous encounters, Wang Yan had never deliberately come here waiting for Miss Wang. If two people are meant to meet, there’s no need to engineer an encounter.

“Happy New Year, may the boss grow rich!” Wang Yan pushed open the door, smiling and clasping his fists in greeting.

“Ah, it’s Boss Wang who should get rich! Haven’t seen you in months. Did you come here to meet Miss Wang today?”

“Fate. Same as always, boss.”

“I remember.” The owner waved his hand—he couldn’t forget someone who ate so much and had so much money.

Wang Yan opened two bottles of soda, placing one in front of Miss Wang, who had clearly been waiting for him. He smiled and asked, “Why are you here on New Year’s Day, Miss Wang?”

“Who says you can’t come to Paigu Niangao on New Year’s Day? The boss is open, so of course I’m coming. If the boss opened earlier, I’d be here every morning and evening.”

Miss Wang took a sip of soda and laughed. “I know what you mean, but I don’t like all the small talk. Someone always wants to set me up with a boyfriend, someone else asks about my workplace—these are all elders, and I can’t say no. It’s exhausting. So I came out. What about you? I called Yedongjing, and Sister Ling said you moved to Julu Road—why aren’t you cooking at home?”

“Lazy. I originally planned to host a warm pot for everyone, but we just celebrated the New Year together yesterday—today felt pointless. Honestly, we really are fated, Miss Wang. I’ve come here four times, and I’ve met you four times.”

“Fate indeed. I even asked the boss before—you hadn’t shown up in months. So why today?”

“I’m going to Hong Kong tomorrow. I realized I hadn’t eaten Paigu Niangao in months, so I came for one last meal—next time might be a long while.”

“Why so long?”

“I’ve got some business in Hong Kong—you know that—and I need to arrange things there. Also, I heard the Soviet Union has been unstable these past two years, and some people got rich there. I don’t want to get rich myself, but the elder brother is still the elder brother—he’s got plenty of good stuff. I want to see if I can bring back some cutting-edge equipment. I mentioned this once to Bao Zong—I wanted to get into semiconductors.”

“That’s real big business—technology is king. If I have what you don’t, I can charge any price. Way higher margins than clothing brands.”

“The more high-tech, the more investment—and you’ll still lose money. Forget it, I won’t say more. You never listen anyway—go crash into that wall.” Miss Wang rolled her eyes, then leaned closer, whispering, “I heard it’s dangerous over there, and the channels aren’t legal—it’s smuggling. You’re not planning to do that, are you?”

“Are you going to report me?”

“Don’t be ridiculous—we’re friends. How could I ever do something like that? I’m just worried about you!”

“Mm, I feel it. It’s warm inside.” Wang Yan smiled and nodded, leaning in to whisper, “I’ll do exactly what others do—if trouble comes, the tall ones will take the hit. Besides, I don’t believe my parents will beat me if I bring back some high-end equipment from overseas.”

“You’re absolutely right—your awareness is high, Boss Wang.”

“Not that high. I’m just flipping things around and making a profit along the way.”

“I can’t stop you. Just be careful.”

“You don’t know? I’m really good at fighting.” Wang Yan raised one eyebrow.

“Yes, yes, you’re the strongest.”

“Even if it’s half-hearted, I’ll take it as a compliment. I’ll bring you a gift when I get back.”

Miss Wang quickly waved her hands. “No way—you know I’ll have to pay for anything you give me. I’m broke already.” Her voice was still loud, as if the Paigu Niangao owner weren’t even there.

But the owner had long grown used to it—the girl had always been bold since childhood…

“Then help me with something.”

“No.”

“Then I’ll bring you a gift—and deliver it straight to your workplace.”

“Oh, you’re so annoying!” Miss Wang tilted her head back, speechless, then bit hard into a pork rib. “Fine, say it first. But don’t even think about going behind my back.”

“Why would I? I’d never hurt you. It’s simple: I’m going to Hong Kong to find a good spot to open a store selling my sportswear. This is right up your alley—help me get the paperwork done quickly. That’ll count as a work achievement. This isn’t just OEM or private labeling—it’s a real domestic brand going global. Even though it’s Hong Kong, it hasn’t returned yet, so you still need a passport to come and go.”

“Is it really that simple?”

“We’ve got such strong fate—don’t you have even a shred of trust in me, Miss Wang?”

Miss Wang rolled her eyes and muttered, “You’re planning to smuggle…”

“Don’t say it like that. I’m buying urgently needed cutting-edge manufacturing equipment.”

“Fine. Have someone come find me at No. 27. But I’m warning you—don’t bring me any gifts. I really can’t afford them.”

Wang Yan didn’t answer. He just smiled and clinked his soda bottle against hers, sealing their agreement.

Miss Wang didn’t sulk—instead, she clinked even harder, as if playing some fun game. She suddenly burst into laughter for no reason.

It was as if she were meeting this man again—for the fourth time at Paigu Niangao, she was meeting him for the fourth time…