Chapter 153: When Director Han Arrives, Lu Hua

Han Sizhang sat down in the living room, his gaze sweeping once again over everyone present, finally resting on Lu Hua, his eyes carrying a certain deep meaning.

"Comrade Lu Hua, shall we talk alone for a few minutes?" Han Sizhang's tone was gentle, yet carried an authority that left no room for refusal.

Lu Hua nodded, turned and said to his children, "You go to the kitchen and tidy up first; I'll speak a few words with Han Sizhang."

Lu Qingshan felt a surge of unease; such sudden private talks usually meant something important was about to be announced. He glanced at his father, trying to read something from the weathered face, but Lu Hua's expression remained calm, revealing nothing.

The siblings, aware of the situation, rose and left; Lu Qingshan was the last to go, turning back for a glance. Han Sizhang leaned close to his father, speaking in a low voice; his father's brows furrowed slightly, and he nodded in response now and then.

Unfortunately, their voices were very low, and only a few fragmented words could be heard: "work arrangement," "organizational decision," "consider it..."

In the kitchen, the siblings stared at each other in bewilderment.

"Second brother, what do you think this Han Sizhang is discussing with dad?" the younger brother Lu Qingjun whispered, curiosity filling his eyes.

"What good thing could it be?" sister Lu Fang muttered while clearing the dishes, "A director from the Central Organization Department coming in person certainly isn't for a casual family meal."

Eldest brother Lu Qingyuan said thoughtfully, "It may relate to dad's work arrangement. After his rehabilitation, the organization always needs an official explanation."

Little sister Lu Xiaoyu blinked, "Could it be that they're assigning dad an important post? I've heard that these days, most rehabilitated veterans get reassigned."

"Of course!" Lu Qingjun replied enthusiastically, "Dad is a veteran of the Red Army, a revolutionary hero! After being delayed for so many years, the organization will definitely give him proper placement now!"

Lu Qinghe adjusted his glasses and analyzed, "I think this Han Sizhang is not ordinary; the Central Organization Department sending a director‑level official for a home visit shows the higher‑ups place great importance on dad's situation."

"That's obvious!" Wang Guilan whispered from beside them, pride shining in her eyes, "Your dad back then marched with the older generation of revolutionaries, north and south, and he has real achievements!"

Lu Qingshan grew increasingly uneasy; he didn't know the exact details of his father's rehabilitation in his previous life, but the changes in this life were enormous. That his own affairs had attracted the Central Organization Department's attention meant there was certainly more to it.

The conversation in the living room lasted about ten minutes, during which low murmurs could be heard occasionally, though the specifics were indistinct.

Just as everyone perked up their ears to eavesdrop, Lu Qingjun let out a sudden "Ah!"

"What's wrong?" Lu Fang jumped in surprise.

"I stretched my hand too far and hit the hot water kettle!" Lu Qingjun clutched his finger, gritting his teeth.

"Serves you right!" Lu Xiaoyu said irritably, "Now you tried to eavesdrop—does this help?"

"I wasn't eavesdropping! I was just concerned about dad's work arrangement!" Lu Qingjun defended.

Finally, Han Sizhang's resonant voice rang out, "Very well, Comrade Lu Hua, I understand your point. Please consider this matter carefully again; we'll get in touch in a few days."

Immediately, the sound of chairs being pushed back was heard, and Lu Hua called, "Children, Han Sizhang is leaving; come over and see him off."

The family hurried out of the kitchen; Han Sizhang was already standing in the courtyard, lined up for a farewell.

"Comrade Lu Hua, think it over carefully. There's no rush, but this opportunity is rare," Han Sizhang shook Lu Hua's hand, then turned to Lu Qingshan, "Comrade Qingshan, we all know your deeds; the organization closely monitors your performance. We hope you continue to set a model, contributing to socialist construction."

"Thank you for the leadership's concern; I will certainly strive," Lu Qingshan replied respectfully, though his heart was a flutter of nerves.

"By the way, in a few days journalists may come to interview you; be prepared," Han Sizhang said meaningfully, "Also, expert groups from the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Industry will conduct on‑site research at your place. Your 'Shanwan Village Model' is highly valued by the higher‑ups."

What? Expert groups too? Lu Qingshan felt his head about to explode.

Finishing, he scanned everyone present again, "Comrade Lu Hua has a wonderful set of children; that is his greatest wealth. Especially Comrade Qingshan, achieving so much at a young age—your future is boundless!"

After Han Sizhang and his secretary Xiao Li left, the courtyard fell into a brief silence. Lu Qingshan noticed his father's expression had grown solemn, a hint of contemplation in his brows.

"Dad, what did Han Sizhang come to discuss with you?" eldest brother Lu Qingyuan couldn't help asking.

Lu Hua waved his hand, "Eating is important; let's eat first."

But back at the table, the atmosphere was noticeably less lively than before.

Lu Hua was deep in thought, occasionally glancing at this son, then that daughter, his eyes carrying a complex emotion.

Wang Guilan sensed her husband's change and asked with concern, "Old Lu, what's wrong? Are you feeling unwell?"

"Nothing, just a bit tired," Lu Hua forced a smile, though it looked rather strained.

Lu Qingshan picked up a piece of braised pork and put it in his mouth, but he couldn't taste anything. He constantly felt that something big was about to happen, and the premonition made him restless.

Little sister Lu Xiaoyu tried to liven the mood, "Dad, you've been rehabilitated, our whole family is reunited—what a wonderful thing! Here, let me toast you with a cup of tea!"

Lu Hua looked at his youngest daughter, a flash of tenderness in his eyes before quickly returning to his pensive expression.

The dinner concluded under this subtle atmosphere.

After nine o'clock that night, the children were preparing to rest when Lu Hua suddenly spoke, "Guilan, children, all come to the living room; I have something to say."

Hearing their father's formal tone, everyone grew tense. They sat around in the living room, awaiting his words.

Lu Hua sat down in his chair, surveyed his children, "Kids, Han Sizhang's visit today wasn't just a simple call; it was mainly to discuss work matters with me."

"Dad, go ahead, we're listening," eldest brother Lu Qingyuan sat upright.

"What work?" Lu Qinghe asked hurriedly.

"The organization wants to restore my position, and..." Lu Hua paused, "they may send me to work for the Central Military Commission."

Central Military Commission?! Everyone was stunned; the weight of that term was clear to all.

"Dad, you mean the Central Military Commission?" eldest brother Lu Qingyuan's voice trembled slightly.

Lu Hua nodded, "Yes. I may in the future be responsible for national defense work. It's the organization's trust in me, but also a great responsibility."

The living room fell silent, only the sound of each person's heartbeat audible.

Little brother Lu Qingjun was so excited he nearly jumped up, "Dad, this is great! You're going to become a high‑ranking official!"