Chapter 1179: The Good-Natured

"Leader, we've signed the procurement agreement for the specialized vehicle chassis technology."

Comrade Sha Sha Qizhi met Li Li Xuewu and reported proactively: "This afternoon, our organization will finalize the agreement—you…"

"I won't attend," Li Li Xuewu took the report from his hand, glanced at it, and instructed: "Tell Director Ding, and be sure to consult Director Li."

"Understood," Comrade Sha Sha Qizhi nodded, responding efficiently: "I'm coordinating now; I'll report to Deputy Director Xiang and Deputy Director Cheng later."

"Is the handover going smoothly?"

After finishing the report, Li Li Xuewu looked up and asked with a smile: "When are you leaving for Jinmen?"

"Director Zhuang called me, and we discussed it," Comrade Sha Sha Qizhi explained with a smile: "I'll stay in Jingcheng to coordinate, then head to Jinmen after finishing up."

After the automotive supply chain conference, Zhuang Zhuang Cangshu had been in charge of contract negotiations.

To this end, the Trade Management Center, with support from the Sales Division, formed a negotiation team.

The supervising leader was naturally Xiang Xiang Jingyu—even though Deputy Director Xiang had not yet returned, the Committee's Executive Meeting had already approved this decision.

In this round of institutional personnel changes, Comrade Sha Sha Qizhi was appointed Deputy Director of the Jinmen Trade Management Center.

Zhuang Zhuang Cangshu clearly knew his background, so he didn't treat him as an outsider.

Comrade Sha Sha Qizhi had handled the reception for this project at the Foreign Affairs Office, so the handover naturally went smoothly.

Moreover, the two had cooperated before, so Zhuang Zhuang Cangshu trusted him—one managing negotiations in Jinmen, the other coordinating in Jingcheng.

"We're fairly familiar with Zhang Zhang Shicheng, so there were no issues with the handover."

Comrade Sha Sha Qizhi thought for a moment, then added: "He and Hu Yanqiu seem to…"

"Alright, since the handover is clear, do well in your new post."

Li Li Xuewu seemed to hear, yet seemed not to pay attention—he nodded and gave him a few instructions.

Comrade Sha Sha Qizhi understood his leader's intent and shifted to discussing the specialized vehicle chassis.

The impact of this supply chain conference was far-reaching; notably, Hongxing Factory now had more options on the cooperation side.

Business cooperation space expanded significantly, with more automakers negotiating plant construction plans.

The Sabertooth Patrol Vehicle ultimately selected the Hongxing SH141 light truck chassis as its technology import solution.

This left Jingcheng Second Auto Plant deeply dissatisfied—both were light trucks, BJ130 had a 5-ton payload, SH141 only four tons; why did Hongxing Factory reject them?

Besides, they were both right here in Jingcheng—why would Hongxing Factory go so far out of its way?

Li Li Xuewu had no such doubts—the Sabertooth Patrol Vehicle's design had always used this chassis technology.

Hongxing Factory's design team naturally didn't want to alter the design or production plan again.

If this supply chain technology negotiation could formally sign the cooperation agreement and import the SH141 chassis, it would greatly reduce vehicle manufacturing costs.

Moreover, specialized vehicle production isn't suited for assembly-line manufacturing, since each vehicle is unique.

Hongxing Factory's Design Department designed a semi-assembly-line processing workshop for the specialized vehicle production facility.

This improved manufacturing efficiency and reduced production costs while shortening labor time.

Everything was aimed at cutting costs—directly purchasing a chassis saves far more than buying a complete vehicle for modification.

Li Li Xuewu knew exactly why BJ130 lost: its chassis wheelbase was too short.

The SH141 used a two-row seating design, making its body wider and longer, offering more room for modification.

The Design Department was re-engineering the Sabertooth's component specifications, this time incorporating more new materials.

It would discard some light truck functions; this vehicle would primarily serve urban security and patrol defense.

The body and chassis protection capabilities must be greatly enhanced, and functional structures must be installed and designed.

The Vehicle Research Institute hadn't yet delivered a concrete design, but Xia Xia Zhongquan had mentioned that the Sabertooth would look nothing like the SH141.

It could carry light armor, mount light weapons, and transport a squad—Hongxing Factory placed great hopes on this vehicle.

As cooperation with the Light Infantry Unit strengthened and expanded, the focus was no longer solely on weapons as a one-way equipment supply.

It now included vehicles such as cars, aircraft, and ships, as well as individual weapons, mobile kitchens, and supporting equipment—the goal was simple: start from civilian foundations and broadly develop military applications.

The Type 66-6 sniper rifle became a key foundation for this cooperation.

Following the combat performance of the Third Guard Regiment in multiple missions and exercises, plus reports of large-scale foreign purchases and battlefield feedback from Annan, orders for this rifle quietly surged.

Of course, this "surge" was relative—it was still a sniper rifle.

Its performance was excellent, its structure simple, suitable for use in diverse environments.

But the cost and impact of bulk procurement must also be considered.

After all, it was a copy—no matter how much Hongxing Factory tried to disguise it, others could still see its true origin.

But many autonomous units and urban defense units didn't care about this.

Hongxing Factory's weapons plant, located within the Gangcheng Hardware Factory, was not large and produced only this one model.

Moreover, Hongxing Factory had no plans to expand its product range; instead, it heavily invested in R&D for other individual equipment and vehicles.

The Light Weapons Research Institute collaborated with Hongxing Factory to redefine and redesign several vehicles.

The vehicles whose chassis procurement plans were finalized will enter mass production gradually next year.

The Traffic Signal Command Vehicle adopted the chassis technology of the Linghe LK640 medium passenger vehicle from Liaoning Linghe Automobile Industry Company.

Don't ask why—Liaodong Industry facilitated the connection; once the process passed inspection and the product proved cost-effective and high-quality, Hongxing Factory knew exactly what to choose.

The Firefighting Engineering Vehicle's chassis selected the flagship products of Chuanqi and Luoyang First Tractor Factory.

Particularly, what Comrade Sha Sha Qizhi most wanted to report was the Grassland Tiger chassis procurement plan.

Jingcheng Automobile Plant had proactively signaled its willingness to cooperate—the BJ212 chassis participated in the bidding and negotiations.

Whether due to pressure from Tanlu or not, Hongxing Factory had originally sought to negotiate this very chassis.

According to Comrade Sha Sha Qizhi, Jingcheng Automobile Plant didn't just participate in the Grassland Tiger chassis bidding—it also joined multiple component procurement and supply bids.

As one of the Big Five factories, this level of involvement carried significant influence.

Especially since Hongxing Factory recently organized an on-site inspection of the automotive industry, Jingcheng Automobile Plant dispatched a professional team.

The feedback from Steel City is that many automotive companies have dispatched technical inspection teams to visit.

The leaders of Factory 17 went to Fengcheng to inspect Hongxing Factory's machining capabilities and to see the replication status of the assembly line production equipment from the Beijing Second Machinery Factory.

The final stop arranged by Hongxing Factory was the Tianjin Trade Management Center.

If the talks go well, negotiations can be organized on the spot to quickly finalize the cooperation agreement.

Hongxing Factory has limited technical personnel; achieving the replacement and renovation of production lines and equipment will inevitably be a massive project.

The larger the automotive company, the longer the renovation time will be; this is inevitable.

The leaders of the Ministry of First Machine Building are also monitoring this transformation in the automotive industry; if a full-scale operation of the supply chain system can be achieved, automotive companies nationwide will inevitably usher in major changes and major development.

Very directly, many automotive companies will shed the heavy burden of parts production and adopt the supply chain procurement channel to achieve assembly.

The parts production units that are shed can then be integrated into professional automotive parts production factories.

Hongxing Factory is working on this project; it is preparing for a rainy day, and every step has landed precisely on the policy points.

Nonsense; the supply chain has been established for over a year, and Li Li Xuewu long ago led his people to design the escape routes.

For a pillar like Factory 17 to transform, it is also an innovation in production technology.

Regarding the parts production units, they should not be cast aside; instead, the Ministry of Industry will organize leadership, integrate resources internally, and establish an automotive parts production branch company.

As the supply chain market opens up, other supply chain platforms will emerge in the future, and more automotive manufacturing factories will appear.

Facing industry changes, market segmentation, and production refinement, whoever masters parts production can define the automotive industry.

Therefore, Factory 17 will not easily sever its roots, and Hongxing Factory must also ensure the supply chain is not constrained, building its own automotive parts brand.

Of course, compared to the heavy industrial foundation of Factory 17, Hongxing Factory is more inclined toward the research and development and production of new-process and new-material automotive parts.

That is to say, applying more new materials to reduce costs and improve quality, while focusing deeply on developing core technology areas such as engines, thereby grasping the main pulse of the automotive industry.

As the primary capacity expansion and economic support for Hongxing Factory, the automotive industry has already laid a solid foundation for a pattern of comprehensive development across multiple categories.

From material production to parts production, to supply chain channel management, to the creation of specialized factories and domestic and international supply and sales channels.

From production to sales, a one-stop industrial structure with multi-department coordination and supervision; the trend is set, and the future is promising.

"No need to be polite; I have already spoken with Comrade Shang Guanqi, and I have received your gratitude."

Li Li Xuewu smiled and shook hands with Shang Director Guan Zheng; at over fifty years old, his hair was already streaked with gray.

Shang Director Guan Zheng's Lady was also a researcher, and her expression showed anxiety and restraint.

For scientific workers, especially under relatively harsh living conditions, the consumption on the mind is immense.

Look at them sitting in offices all day, conducting research on data; yet you do not see them becoming obese.

This shows that the so-called lack of exercise in later generations has little to do with obesity; eating steamed corn buns and Chinese cabbage for a few years, anyone can lose weight.

At the entrance of the International Hotel, Li Li Xuewu actively welcomed the entire Shang family at the door.

Shang Guanqi took the initiative to introduce Li Li Xuewu; although a welcome party should have been held for the members of the 701 Project Group, neither side intended that, so keeping a low profile was better.

Therefore, Li Li Xuewu has not yet met many researchers, including Shang Guanqi's family members.

Her three brothers were some married and some still single; today the whole family came out, and Li Li Xuewu arranged three cars.

This level of reception was naturally enjoyed abroad, but since returning to the country, he had not yet enjoyed it.

At the door, after Shang Guanqi introduced Li Li Xuewu, Shang Director Guan Zheng appeared somewhat agitated.

Li Li Xuewu did not say anything about suffering grievances; he did not yet have the qualification.

He responded amicably to the other party's words of thanks.

In his words, he defined this banquet as a private reception, a reception by Li Li Xuewu personally for scientific workers.

"Welcome, please come this way—"

As soon as the Shang family entered the lobby of the International Hotel, they felt the difference here.

The golden and magnificent lobby, the waiters in fashionable uniforms, and the attentive service attitude made their eyes light up.

Although there is still an essential difference compared to abroad, they appreciated this politeness and confidence from the inside out even more.

Politeness is the service standard of the International Hotel; confidence is the quality bestowed upon service personnel by the era.

The service personnel of the International Hotel are fine; look at the service personnel in some hotels outside; if they don't hit people, they are doing well.

All are masters of society, truly achieving that no one is inferior to anyone else.

With this mindset at work, it is very obvious to see the mental state and demeanor of the service personnel.

"The Western restaurant is this way—"

The decoration referenced the common cultural characteristics of Zhongxi, respecting the history of the Six Nations Hotel, so the environment appeared very comfortable.

Because there were many people, Li Li Xuewu specifically called ahead to request a long dining table be prepared here.

Chinese dining tables are mostly round because dishes are shared; Western dining tables are mostly square because meals are served individually.

Li Li Xuewu very gentlemanly pulled out the chair for Shang Guanqi and sat down with a smile amidst her thanks.

The ordering phase still revealed the current living conditions of the Shang family.

Including Shang Guanqi, none of them selected particularly expensive meals.

Li Li Xuewu did not interfere with their ordering; instead, he ordered many different dishes to be served individually and shared.

"You have spent too much—"

Shang Guanqi's mother, Qiu Wu Shuping, was frugal in managing the household; hearing that this meal cost a lot, she nodded slightly and politely thanked him.

Li Li Xuewu did not mind; instead, he began introducing the origins of the Hongxing International Hotel.

Regarding the history and news of the Six Nations Hotel, Shang Director Guan Zheng belonged to that generation and naturally knew something about it.

The couple observed the environment in the restaurant, looking at those foreigners, as if they were immersed in history.

"Many are staff from foreign affairs offices, as well as resident journalists and other workers."

Li Li Xuewu introduced: "Jingcheng has a few restaurants with fairly authentic flavors, but absolutely none as authentic as here."

"I heard most are Northern flavors?"

Shangguan Hongzheng was a very easygoing person; perhaps due to many years living abroad, his temperament possessed an open side.

Li Li Xuewu's speech was not elegant, but absolutely hearty and straightforward, with few reservations when joking or talking.

It was evident that the Shangguan family maintained strict upbringing; at the dining table, only Shangguan Hongzheng and Li Li Xuewu conversed the most.

Shangguan Qi's three elder brothers—Bowen, Zhongwu, and Shuquan—only spoke when Li Li Xuewu asked them or when the topic involved them.

Li Li Xuewu was quite skilled at conversation; by the time the first refreshing dish was served, both sides had already eased the awkwardness and stiffness of their first meeting.

He started the conversation from this restaurant, speaking about the changes at the Red Star Factory over the past two years.

This included the ecological industrial zone currently under construction, as well as other industrial projects and future plans.

Advancing from a single steel rolling mill toward a steel group, beneath this grand goal lay strict engineering construction management, efficient economic revenue-generation methods, and continuously progressing industrial achievements.

It was the first time the Shangguan family had gained such a comprehensive and objective understanding of the Red Star Factory, the unit for which they struggled and worked.

Li Li Xuewu spoke of industrial goals, then of services and life, moving from the ecological industrial zone to post-redevelopment following urban land replacement, keeping the whole family listening with rapt attention.

Finally, when all the hot dishes had been served, he spoke of aircraft, introducing the Red Star Factory's goals from beginning to end.

This included the outlook and positioning for unmanned aerial vehicles, along with a systematic exposition of their future applications in both military and civilian fields.

In the end, spurred by the red wine, Li Li Xuewu began soliciting opinions from the Shangguan family and listening to their suggestions.

He had said so much merely to lay the groundwork, inviting this family to speak.

He had prepared thoroughly for this evening; there was plenty of time to listen to them speak slowly.

……

"Thank you for your hospitality," Shangguan Hongzheng said, gripping Li Li Xuewu's hand: "Your demeanor and learning have refreshed my upper limit of perception regarding young cadres."

"Father—"

Shangguan Qi worried that Li Li Xuewu might be somewhat sensitive about the term "young cadre," and further feared that her father's evaluation might offend him.

She looked at Li Li Xuewu with some apology and said, "My father rarely gets this happy; he drank a bit too much."

"Being able to learn from and consult with experts, I am also very happy tonight."

Li Li Xuewu was very considerate of intellectuals' sensitivities and did not take the other's words to heart.

Three Volga M24s requested from the club would drive the Shangguan family back to the Red Star Factory dormitory district.

This was not showing off, merely courtesy toward professional technical personnel.

A French meal and luxury car reception were merely matters of face; how much could they possibly cost?

Their research and breakthroughs in the field of scientific technology were the real, tangible achievements; these receptions were but flowers in a mirror and the moon in the water.

If the unmanned aerial vehicle project could truly be secured, Li Li Xuewu would not mind applying to Li Li Huai De to equip their family with a luxury sedan.

Just during the banquet, Li Li Xuewu had mentioned that the Red Star Factory had demarcated a high-end residential area within the ecological industrial zone, beside the Liangma River.

These large-square-meter villas were prepared specifically for professional technical talent; whatever one's rank, that was the kind of housing and treatment one would enjoy.

Even provisions for vehicles had already been implemented in the Red Star Factory's official vehicle management regulations.

Demonstrating emphasis on science and respect for technology was the greatest support one could offer to scientific and technical personnel.

Both parties at tonight's banquet were very pleased; the only slight awkwardness was that Shangguan Qi's mother, Qiu Wu Shuping, had asked about Li Li Xuewu's personal life situation, namely whether he was married.

Li Li Xuewu smiled and introduced his two children, as well as his spouse's occupational situation.

Perhaps Qiu Wu Shuping, faced with such a lavish banquet, had harbored a trace of doubt and speculation.

But seeing Li Li Xuewu so open and straightforward, and noting that the banquet discussions concerned only Red Star Factory work, everyone ultimately felt relieved.

Shangguan Qi naturally understood her mother's words; afterward, the look in her eyes when glancing at Li Li Xuewu carried a hint of evasion.

Even she could detect the note of regret in her mother's words; when boarding the car, her face was still flushed.

Facing Li Li Xuewu's praise that her future held great promise, it is unknown what she thought of, but even after the car had departed, her gaze remained fixed on the rearview mirror.

In the car, her mother murmured softly, "His appearance is somewhat fierce, but it cannot conceal his overflowing talent."

"Not a good match," Shangguan Hongzheng said with a soft sigh, not drunk at all: "How could a kind and virtuous person attain high position at such a young age?"

This statement required no proof; someone capable of calculating and maneuvering their entire family, even the whole 701 Project Team, could hardly be a kind and virtuous person.

"Tsk tsk—"

Yu Shui clicked her tongue while looking at the bill in her hand, then lifted her head and handed it to Li Li Xuewu, saying, "Quite generous, aren't you?"

"Just mind your own business; why do you have to stick your nose in everywhere?"

Li Li Xuewu glanced at the bill, counted out cash from his bag, and handed it to the cashier.

Yu Shui stood by the counter, sizing up Li Li Xuewu as she asked, "Why not go through the official account? That's half a month's wages."

"Didn't you hear what I said?"

Li Li Xuewu put away the change and the bill, repeating, "Mind your own affairs."

Saying this, he paid her no further attention, turned, and walked out.

He Yu Shui twitched the corner of her mouth, stepped out following him, neither chasing nor hurrying.

The waiters behind them did glance over, but none paid it any mind.

The Red Star Factory was neither large nor small, but personnel changes and relationships were the most critical matters.

He Yu Shui had been transferred to the International Hotel; before she even arrived, her background was already known to all.

Li Li Xuewu's neighbor, the younger sister of He He Yuzhu from the canteen—this was a natural member of the direct faction.

The Security Division, the Guest House, and this International Hotel were all within Li Li Xuewu's sphere of influence.

As for other areas, the tertiary industry sector, the Trade Center, and the Management Committee Office all had Li Li Xuewu's people placed within them.

He had only been back for two years; rooting interpersonal relationships inevitably required "appointing relatives and favorites," yet everyone also knew that this new Vice General Manager was no simple character.

Coming through the cadre exchange channel from the Textile Factory, having worked in both the trade union and the workshops, he possessed more experience and background than their own Vice General Manager Zhang.

At the entrance, before Li Li Xuewu boarded his car, Yu Shui stood by the car door and asked, "Do you find me that annoying?"

"My brother even said he wanted to exile me to the frontier; didn't you have the heart to do it?"

"It's not that I lack the heart to be ruthless," Li Li Xuewu glanced at her and said, "I called the Border Affairs Office; they said they don't want you."

He shook the car door, signaling Yu Shui to let go, before finally closing it properly.

Through the window, he took a look at He Yu Shui, dressed in a capable and fashionable work uniform; seeing no anger in her eyes, he knew she had followed him out to express her gratitude.

"You're not a child anymore; learn to be sensible."

Li Li Xuewu spoke with rare seriousness: "Your brother is so anxious he's nearly gone mad."

"Since you've set your sights on the environment and development at Red Star Factory, just work hard and stop talking nonsense."

"Now you're my subordinate," He Yu Shui stood by the car, looking at the somewhat dim face inside the vehicle, and said, "Shouldn't I listen to you?"

"If only you truly would listen—"

Li Li Xuewu did not bother chatting with her; he waved his hand, then signaled Han Han Jiankun to drive.

Yu Shui coming to Red Star Factory was merely a compromise born of unattainable desires, a stubbornness toward life and work.

She should know that there is no question of pushing her luck here; since he had already granted her request to come to Red Star Factory, she should raise no further demands.

The two were neighbors, practically childhood friends, and after returning, their interactions in the courtyard had been quite harmonious.

Even without this incident, if she wanted to transfer from the Textile Factory to work at Red Star Factory, Li Li Xuewu would have helped her arrange it.

Now, they had simply taken a long detour, making the relationship between them more open and straightforward.

There was no longer any neighborly politeness, nor any reserve between man and woman; whatever needed saying was said directly.

He Yu Shui stood at the gate, watching the command vehicle disappear, and could not help but let out a long sigh.

Making things difficult for herself was, in a way, also making things difficult for him.

"Hello? Wu Ge? Hello?"

Hearing his big brother's shouts through the phone receiver, Li Li Xuewu frowned slightly and moved the handset away a bit.

"Can't you hear me speaking?"

He said with amusement, "No need to shout so loud; I can hear you."

"Wu Ge! She's born! I've had a baby!"

Lao Lao Biaozi's excitement was evident even from such a distance; his incoherent ramblings even made Li Li Xuewu laugh.

"Good, good, good, but what did you have?"

"A daughter! A big daughter!"

Lao Lao Biaozi gripped the phone and shouted at the top of his lungs: "I have a big daughter!"

In the corridor of Gangcheng City Hospital, many people watched him with amusement, and one nurse, unable to hold back, scolded him while laughing.

Lao Lao Biaozi paid no heed, continuing to report the good news to Li Li Xuewu, pouring out his joy.

But as he spoke, he began to cry; his face still wore a smile, yet the tears flowed uncontrollably.

Alone in a foreign land as a stranger, every festive season brings thoughts of home.

For him, who had struggled far from home for years, upon having a child of his own, the first people he should have thought of were his parents, not his brothers.

Yet he could only call his brother; in this moment, he resembled nothing so much as a child without parents.

Mai Mai Qinglan's parents stood at the ward door, looking over, forcing themselves not to approach.

At such a time, a man certainly does not wish others to see his weakness, especially his parents-in-law.

Mai Gao Xiaotian walked back into the ward, looking at his daughter on the bed and his baby granddaughter, his heart filled with both joy and sorrow.

Joy for his daughter, sorrow for his son-in-law.

He came from a background of traveling performers; although considered among the lowest professions, they were still a respectable family.

In a respectable family, when a daughter marries, how could the in-laws not meet?

Yet to this day, even though their daughter had given birth, they had still not met the in-laws.

The son-in-law calling to report the good news was actually calling his sworn brother in Jingcheng, weeping profusely.

"I thought he didn't like having a daughter," Hu Hui, Mai Mai Qinglan's mother, sat down beside her daughter and sighed softly, "It sounds quite heartbreaking."

"There's nothing to regret—"

Mai Mai Qinglan had a smooth delivery and had rested all night; by now, she was feeling much better.

Looking at the wrinkled infant, she said calmly, "He's always talked about envying his Brother Wu for having a big daughter, saying how adorable little Li Shu is; now he has one of his own."

"As for his parents, I didn't stop him from showing filial piety; he simply didn't want to himself."

"Sigh—"

Hu Hui sighed and said, "We are all children of our parents; which ones are dear, and which are not?"

"If he doesn't want to talk about it," Mai Mai Qinglan replied, her eyes never leaving the child, clearly fond of her, "he makes his own decisions, and I let him be."

"Just live your lives well—"

Hu Hui affectionately stroked the baby's tiny hand, her face full of kindness.

She admonished her daughter: "Lao Biaozi's character is not flawed; he may be a bit vague in speech, but he is never vague in action."

"I know you have regrets, and perhaps some unwillingness..."

"Mom—"

Mai Mai Qinglan lifted her head, looking at her mother with a chiding expression: "What regrets do I have? What unwillingness?"

Saying this, she lowered her head again, stroking her daughter's tiny feet, and said, "He hasn't shorted me on food or clothing; what more could I want?"

Hearing their daughter's words and looking at their little granddaughter, the Mai couple saw nothing in their eyes but contentment.

Their daughter had grown up, their son-in-law had achieved success in his career, and the two were living a harmonious and beautiful life; this was exactly the life they had wished for.

"Having a big daughter is good; big daughters manage the household and show filial piety," Hu Hui said with a smile, "In a couple of years, when the child is a bit older, you can have more; have several, and we will help raise them."

"Yes, we are not afraid of hardship."

Mai Gao Xiaotian bent over, gazing at his granddaughter's little face, finding her endlessly delightful no matter how he looked at her.

He even promised with his mouth full, "However many children you have, we'll help raise them; we're actually worried about not having enough to do."

"Lao Lao Biaozi said the Red Star Factory is expanding its literary and propaganda troupe," Mai Mai Qinglan asked her parents, "They invited you; why didn't you accept?"

She knew just how much her parents loved traditional opera; otherwise, they wouldn't still be taking on apprentices during these times.

That previous apprentice had already broken their hearts; the fact that they were taking on another student to teach showed where their minds were at.

"At our age, why bother with all that?"

Mai Gao Xiaotian shook his head and said, "A quiet life is quite nice; if your mother and I want to sing opera now, we can get on stage anytime just to satisfy our craving."

"Exactly, peace is a blessing—"

Huhu Huilan said, "The club has formed an opera troupe; it's not large in scale, combining teaching with performances, and it's great fun."

Looking at her daughter, she added, "Now that you've had a child, we finally have something to do."

Glancing at her husband, she continued, "I'll help look after the child; you go back..."

"I'm not going back; I'm staying right here with you."

At this moment, having composed his emotions, Seeing Lao Lao Biaozi returned from outside; his eyes were still red, but a smile remained on his face.

He said to his father-in-law and mother-in-law, "I have so many matters to attend to that I can't manage everything at home."

"I've been saying for a long time that you should come over; now that there's a eldest granddaughter, just don't leave."

"How could that possibly work? Hahaha—"

The son-in-law's enthusiasm greatly comforted the old couple, but at this moment Mai Gao Xiaotian waved his hand, saying, "We can't just abandon things over there."

"What is there that you can't abandon? I'll go talk to Wu Ge about the club," Seeing Lao Lao Biaozi said with grand assurance, "We'll settle down here as a family; you still need to help me look after the child."

Gesturing toward Mai Mai Qinglan, he added, "Xiaolan also needs to help me with the work at the station..."

"Just listen to Mom and Dad's arrangement; it's not like you're never going back."

Mai Mai Qinglan glanced at Seeing Lao Lao Biaozi and cut him off.

It wasn't that she didn't want her father to come live with them; rather, she could see that her father had reservations.

Since ancient times, when has a son-in-law supported his father-in-law? Unless it was a matrilocal marriage or some special circumstance.

Take the Li family, for instance; Grandfather Li is already all alone; if he truly stayed in the village, he wouldn't last long.

In a situation like the Mai family's, what need was there for Seeing Lao Lao Biaozi to support them?

From beginning to end, she had never been satisfied with Li Li Wenbiao's looks or temper, but by now, she no longer cared about those things.

Just based on how well Li Li Wenbiao treated her, even a heart made of ice would have long since been warmed.

Even without all these storms and twists of fate, what could her future have been like anyway?

Li Li Wenbiao was a person who spoke carelessly and lacked education, but not only was he genuine with her, he was utterly sincere with her parents.

Therefore, without needing her mother's exhortations, she knew exactly what to think and how to act.

People say poverty tests the wife and wealth tests the husband; so, was her and Li Li Wenbiao's life considered poor or rich?

Others might not know, but didn't she know exactly how much money Li Li Wenbiao handled every month?

She couldn't say it aloud; speaking it out would scare someone to death.

On ordinary days, the pocket money he gave her was dozens or even hundreds; she could buy whatever she wanted.

Even if she had married some noble young master, it would amount to no more than this; but marrying into a young master's family, could one ever have her kind of good fortune and freedom?

Therefore, aside from having good looks and an education, she seemed to hold no advantage whatsoever with Li Li Wenbiao.

To speak plainly, even without her, Li Li Wenbiao would not lack for a wife.

Wasn't there one at the club? She heard she was still waiting for him.

She didn't know how much affection existed between him and Su Qing, but she knew that Li Li Wenbiao truly held her in the palm of his hand.

So what if he was ugly? In these times, being ugly wasn't even that safe.

Being ugly yet having money to spend made one even more sought after.

"I'm out! I'm out!"

Nie Nie Xiaoguang stood at the main gate of the Red Star Factory compound and bellowed at the top of his lungs.

This infuriated Wang Wang Yimin behind him; he pulled out handcuffs and shouted, "What are you howling about! Do you believe I'll detain you for two days!"

"Tsk—"

Nie Nie Xiaoguang curled his lips in disdain, but his body acted honestly enough.

Taking the cigarette handed to him by his brothers, he squinted and sighed with emotion, "Freedom; it's damn good."

"Guangzi (read as Za)," asked Yan Yan Shengli, who had come to pick him up, grinning, "How did it feel inside?"

"How did it feel? Damn—"

Nie Nie Xiaoguang cursed loudly, then turned to glance back at the factory gate and those security guards watching him.

He had intended to brag, but upon second thought, decided against it.

Who didn't know whom? Among these little brothers, there might be some who hadn't tasted the flesh, but absolutely none who hadn't been detained.

It was just that they lacked the fortune; even if they squatted, it was in a prison or a police station.

To squat in the Red Star Factory's detention room, one had to have some connection to the Red Star Factory.

Therefore, even when being detained, he still had to find some sense of superiority.

However, bragging right now held little interest; they hadn't even started drinking yet.

Yan Yan Shengli had said that everything was prepared in the city; today was solely to welcome him and wash away his travel dust.

"Trust your brother; listen to my one piece of advice."

As he swung his leg over the bicycle, he exhorted the crowd, "Whatever you do, don't provoke Li Li Xuewu; stay as far away from the Red Star Factory as possible!"

"Have you been scared out of your wits? Did they beat you?"

Yan Yan Shengli curled his lips, looked at the Red Star Factory gate, and said, "Damn it, didn't you do nothing at all? Yet they locked you up for fifteen days?"

"Bullshit! What did I lose when I didn't do anything!"

Nie Nie Xiaoguang took a drag of his cigarette and said with reminiscence, "That day was my lucky break; if I had slipped away and followed Seeing Wei Guo, my head would have been chopped off by now!"

"They strike ruthlessly, you don't know!"

He twitched the corner of his mouth and emphasized, "Let alone me getting scratched and having to serve fifteen days, even if a damn dog walked past Li Li Xuewu's eyes and he found it displeasing, it would still get two damn slaps!"

"So you mean..." Yan Yan Shengli sized up Nie Nie Xiaoguang and asked, "He really hit you?"

"Who? Li Li Xuewu? Don't be ridiculous!"

Nie Nie Xiaoguang tilted his head and said, "Would there even be a need for him to lay a hand? By the time he acted, it would be too late for everything; I would have confessed the moment I went in!"

"Hey! Don't call me a coward, but if that day truly comes," he pointed at the crowd and said, "I'm saying just in case, if you ever run into him, answer whatever he asks, never talk back, and never act tough."

"Hmph, don't say I didn't warn you; waiting until he makes his move would be worse than being executed."

"Then you said you got beaten—" Yan Yan Shengli sized him up and asked, "Who beat you?"

"A section chief of the Security Department under him."

With a cigarette roll dangling from his mouth, Nie Nie Xiaoguang tightened his belt and explained, "That woman, holy crap, her fists are ridiculously hard, and getting hit by her hurts like hell—"

The few young buddies chatted and laughed, joked around a bit, then rode out onto the main road, as many people in the city were still waiting.

Coincidentally, several old veterans darted over from the opposite side, and Yan Yan Shengli squeaked as he squeezed the brake lever, intending to start a fight.

"What are you doing, do you want to send me back again? I just got out, damn it—"

Nie Nie Xiaoguang had truly had enough of the experience inside and did not want to return so quickly, so he hurriedly grabbed Yan Yan Shengli's arm.

He looked across the road and warned aloud, "Zhao Wang Weidong, the boss of the old veterans, don't pay him any mind."

After speaking, he signaled to the few hooligans that they should stay out of each other's way, and thus they passed right before the eyes of Zhao Wang Weidong and the others.

Zhao Wang Weidong watched the few people slinking away on the opposite side with an amused expression, then sneered and said, "Just wait for me here."

After speaking, he pedaled his bike to the main gate of the Red Star Factory and immediately asked for someone.

He was actually quite polite, knowing that the security at the Red Star Factory was not to be trifled with.

No kidding, the fact that Seeing Wei Guo's small gang had been completely wiped out had spread throughout the circle of old veterans in the Four-Nine City.

The Red Star Factory counted as a forbidden zone; ordinary people wouldn't dare come here, fearing bad luck.

You see, on normal days at the dinner table, anyone can call Seeing Wei Guo brother and swear brotherhood with him.

But when it truly comes down to life and death, not a single one of them is willing to accompany him on a trip to the western suburbs.

They can't afford the fifty cents for bullet fees; they are just that poor! Yet they cannot admit to being cowards!

Zhao Wang Weidong had actually only been out for a few days himself; he had served seven days in a cell at the sub-bureau, and the tight noose on his head hadn't been removed yet.

When he got home, his father whipped him eight times with a leather belt, and he lay in bed for several days before he could get up.

"Who are you looking for?"

"Zhou Zhou Miaomiao, from the dance troupe; I am her classmate."

Zhao Wang Weidong handed a cigarette into the guardhouse, politely completed the registration, and simply waited for the other party to make a phone call to notify her.

The phone call was connected quickly, but Zhou Zhou Miaomiao showed no intention of letting him enter.

After waiting perhaps another ten-plus minutes, Zhou Zhou Miaomiao finally walked out from the factory compound.

"Yo! Little sister," Zhao Wang Weidong greeted with a flowery tongue, "Haven't seen you in days, I've missed you terribly—"

She was merely part of that rotten circle that used to follow at his heels, yet he hadn't expected her to become a big shot now.

"Why have you come?"

Zhou Zhou Miaomiao showed no enthusiasm; she glanced at him indifferently and said with a tone of distance, "I'm working right now, don't mess around, just say what you have to say."

"What's the rush—"

Zhao Wang Weidong tried to reach out and pull her, asking with a smile, "Don't you recognize me anymore?"

"If you have something to say, just say it, don't touch me—"

Zhou Zhou Miaomiao's face instantly turned cold; she glanced toward the guards at the entrance and reminded him, "I may recognize you, but the guards certainly don't."

"I just missed you, so I came to see you."

Zhao Wang Weidong glanced at the guard and said softly, "Are you free tonight? I'll treat you to a meal."

"No time, I have to go to my boyfriend's house."

Zhou Zhou Miaomiao understood what he meant; he was trying to flirt with her, not even looking at what a state he was in now, whereas back then...

Let's not mention what happened back then; she was a respectable Miss now.

"If you have nothing else, I'm going back; don't come again in the future, that's it."

After speaking, she ignored Zhao Wang Weidong's changing expression, turned around, and walked away.

Zhao Wang Weidong was just about to stop her when he heard a car horn; the guard saluted, the gate opened, and a luxury sedan drove in.

He watched as that sedan stopped, the window rolled down, the person inside exchanged a few words with Zhou Zhou Miaomiao, and then Zhou Zhou Miaomiao got into the car.

Damn! What boyfriend, turns out she has a sugar daddy!

Although Zhao Wang Weidong hadn't seen the person inside the car, he knew the value of that vehicle.

Secretly cursing the bitch for her heartlessness, he suddenly turned his head to look behind him, in the direction where Nie Nie Xiaoguang had left.