Chapter 345: The Sea is Vast for Fish to Leap

Zhang Songying walked out of the lounge next to the stairs, looked up at the figure heading upstairs, and muttered to herself, "Look at that sneaky way you're walking. You're so afraid people won't know you're off to steal someone else's man!"

"Bitches are just pretentious!"

After muttering that at the person going upstairs, she walked confidently, step by step, to the door of Room 321.

*Click. *

As the key turned, the door was quickly opened, and Zhang Songying slipped into the room.

*Click. *

Turning on the bathroom light, Zhang Songying used the diffused light to see the side profile of the person snoring—it was exactly the "long-planned" person she had been aiming for.

Undoing her clothes, she walked into the bathroom, looked at her figure confidently in the mirror, and then turned on the shower.

Li Xuewu heard the sound of rushing water. Thinking that only Qin Huairu had the key to this room, he didn't pay it any mind, wanting to get a little more sleep while she showered.

In his groggy state, he felt someone crawl into the quilt, but Li Xuewu didn't take notice.

Feeling the person had their back to him, Li Xuewu turned his head to look, and pressing on their shoulder from behind...

Hmm?

Enemies on a narrow road?

"Who are you?"

Li Xuewu let out a soft cry and reached out to pin the neck of the person beneath him, reaching for the pistol by the pillow, but then he heard a soft cry.

"Ah! It hurts!"

Li Xuewu recognized who it was. He stepped back, drew his gun, jumped onto the floor, and reached for the light switch.

Dazzled by the light, the woman in the quilt closed her eyes and pulled the quilt up to cover her face.

Li Xuewu asked with a gloomy face, "How do you have the key to my room?"

After waiting for half a minute and seeing that Zhang Songying didn't answer, Li Xuewu grabbed the bath towel from the foot of the bed to wipe himself, then reached out to grab his clothes.

*Sob, sob, sob. *

Just as Li Xuewu was putting on his clothes, sobbing sounds suddenly came from the quilt.

Li Xuewu glanced at the woman on the bed, finished dressing, hesitated for a moment, and asked again, "One last time: how do you have the key to my room?"

This was no small matter. During the public announcement period, having this kind of problem was practically playing with fire.

As he spoke, he picked up the pistol he had left on the bedside table.

"I... I asked Qin Jie for it."

"Qin Huairu?"

"Mm..."

"Has your brain gone numb?"

Li Xuewu gripped the pistol tightly, then holstered it in the gun holster inside his jacket, and said to Zhang Songying, "Get up and get dressed immediately, then go back the way you came!"

Zhang Songying was silent for a while, then threw off the quilt and began to dress.

After dressing, as she walked out, she looked at Li Xuewu and said, "I'm sorry, Li..."

Li Xuewu frowned and said, "I don't want to hear your explanations, nor do I want to hear your reasons. Bring Qin Huairu to my office tomorrow."

After speaking, he opened the door and signaled for Zhang Songying to leave.

Zhang Songying looked at Li Xuewu with red eyes, then walked out the door with a pale, ashen face.

She had never imagined that one day she would face Li Xuewu in such a shameful and embarrassed state. Hearing the door close behind her, she went downstairs with tears in her eyes.

Li Xuewu looked at the bunched-up quilt and carefully checked the room, confirming nothing had been left behind.

He raised his hand to check the time; it was already past three o'clock.

Li Xuewu rubbed his face, lay down on the bed fully clothed, and prepared to go back to sleep.

It wasn't that Li Xuewu was timid; he simply didn't like this kind of "being fed" behavior. He wasn't that desperate yet.

After lying there for over half an hour, he tossed and turned several times but couldn't fall asleep.

Li Xuewu hadn't turned his head the whole time Zhang Songying was dressing, just in case she left something behind.

Now his mind was full of A's—the A-shaped figure was truly not bad.

With his mind in a muddle, Li Xuewu slowly drifted off to sleep again.

The next morning, Li Xuewu got up early, went downstairs to return the key to the front desk, and returned to his office without eating at the small canteen.

Yesterday, Zheng Fuhua had notified him that Li Xuewu had the whole morning to prepare, and they would gather at the train station at three in the afternoon to depart together.

So Li Xuewu's time today was very tight. He listed the Security Section's affairs one by one in his office, and once his watch showed it was time for work, he called Han Yating over.

"Congratulations, Li Kezhang—no, Division Chief."

As soon as Han Yating entered the room, she offered her congratulations, the smile on her face very sincere.

Li Xuewu chuckled, pointed to the chair opposite him, and said, "Add 'Deputy' next time."

Han Yating walked over, sat down, and said, "I wanted to call you that, but it sounds strange. It always reminds me of... hehe."

"Hahaha."

Li Xuewu understood what Han Yating meant. He shook his head and said, "Let's talk business. I have to go to Jinmen for training today, for half a month."

"Ah?"

Han Yating said in surprise, "You're going for training just after being promoted to Deputy Division Chief?"

Sensing her words were ambiguous, she continued, "I mean, the bulletin board at the building entrance says Dong Chuzhang is concurrently serving as the Steel Mill's D-Group Secretary and Factory Director, so he... you... the Security Division..."

Li Xuewu had also seen the content on the bulletin board when he arrived this morning.

The scope of the adjustments involving division-level and deputy-division-level positions was very large; it was likely that the annual cadre adjustments and this special rectification had been combined into one.

In addition to what Han Yating just said about Dong Wenxue being appointed as the Steel City Steel Mill's D-Group Secretary and Factory Director, while concurrently serving as the Steel Rolling Mill's Security Division Chief.

The Deputy Division Chief of the Steel Rolling Mill's Production Management Division was transferred to be the Deputy Factory Director of the Steel City Steel Mill, and the Deputy Division Chief of the Personnel Division was transferred to be the Deputy Factory Director of the Steel City Steel Mill.

Added to that was Yang Zongfang, the Li Kezhang of the First Inspection Section who had already started work on-site; the Steel Mill's factory-level leadership cadre had been replaced entirely, all cadres sent over from the Steel Rolling Mill.

And the content of Yang Zongfang's appointment notice was also very overbearing: Comrade Yang Zongfang, Li Kezhang of the First Inspection Section, is transferred to be the Deputy Secretary and Deputy Factory Director of the Steel City Steel Mill.

Being Deputy Secretary was to control the Discipline Inspection Department, and being Deputy Factory Director was to control the Security Department. This power was truly immense.

One could say: I catch them, I interrogate them, I judge them.

This time, the Steel Rolling Mill's leadership was very dissatisfied with the Steel Mill's team, which was why there was such a large-scale replacement of team members.

And it was said that Dou Changfang, the Steel Mill Secretary who was unwilling to be transferred to the Beijing Steel Rolling Mill, got his wish and remained in the Steel Mill's team, serving as the head of the Steel Mill's Labor Union.

This counted as being demoted from the front line to the second line; he no longer had any chance of promotion.

The original head of the Steel Mill's Labor Union, Lai Junmin, was directly "approved" for retirement, without even being given second-line treatment; one could say not a shred of face was left for him.

This was also a punishment for Lai Junmin's inaction in his supervisory position; this was a report submitted by Yang Yuansong and Li Xuewu after studying it together.

As for the remaining Steel Mill members, besides Luo Jiaping and Yang Mingsu who were dismissed, Deputy Factory Director Feng Xingke was transferred to the Steel Rolling Mill to serve as Deputy Division Chief of the Service Division.

This could be considered getting what he wanted; although he returned from an outside post to the main factory, which was a "step back," at least his rank was preserved.

The reason Feng Xingke did not receive a severe disciplinary action was his contribution to the Steel Mill's production work; if not for his expertise and dedication, the Steel Mill could not have completed its production tasks.

There were many vacancies resulting from this adjustment; not only the Steel Mill, but the Logistics, Personnel, Finance, Production, and other divisions all underwent major adjustments.

However, Old Zhang from Logistics and Wang Pangzi from the Service Division remained in their posts, which could also be considered a step back.

Li Xuewu didn't look carefully, but he did look at the notices for a few people he was familiar with.

Comrade Xu Ning, Director of the Steel Rolling Mill's Guesthouse, was transferred to be the Security Division Chief of the Steel City Steel Mill.

Comrade Sun Jia, Section Member of the Steel Rolling Mill's Office, was transferred to be the Office Director of the Steel City Steel Mill.

Comrade Xiao Changqing, Security Division Chief of the Steel City Steel Mill, was transferred to be the Deputy Factory Director of the Steel Rolling Mill's Logistics Management Division's Labor Protection Factory.

Comrade Yu Decai, Office Director of the Steel City Steel Mill, was transferred to be the Comprehensive Li Kezhang of the Steel Rolling Mill's Security Division.

Xiao Changqing's punishment could be considered very severe; he was adjusted directly from section-level to member-level, and in a small factory under the factory's logistics.

This was Li Xuewu's opinion. Although Xiao Changqing himself hadn't committed a crime, his errors in work were principled; being stripped of everything was already light.

During this group discussion, whether it was Yang Shuji, Factory Director Yang, or Li Huai, no one had any objections to Li Xuewu's opinions regarding the Steel Mill's Security Department and the Steel Rolling Mill's Security Division.

Of course, Li Xuewu also saw his own appointment notice on the bulletin board:

Li Xuewu is appointed as Deputy Division Chief of the Steel Rolling Mill's Security Division, presiding over daily work.

"This is the matter I need to entrust to you."

Li Xuewu pointed to the notebook on the table and said, "During my training period, you will temporarily manage the Security Section's business; consider it pre-post internship."

Han Yating knew what Li Xuewu meant. She very solemnly opened the notebook she had brought and began to take notes.

"Supervise and inspect the completion of work in all departments of the Security Section, especially the emergency plan drills."

Li Xuewu said seriously, "The Security Section is the main body of the Security Division. Your burden is heavy; pay more attention to methods in management."

"Yes!"

Li Xuewu continued, "Pay attention to the Red Star Village training ground project. Wei Tong is doing this; during this time, you go to the site with Wei Tong."

"Yes."

Han Yating looked at Li Xuewu and asked, "Will the training ground belong to the Security Section in the future, or will it be upgraded for you to continue managing?"

Li Xuewu thought for a moment and said, "Don't move it for now; you manage it."

"Good."

Han Yating wasn't asking Li Xuewu for power; this training ground was a cooperative project. She confirmed the jurisdiction to facilitate communication with other departments.

"I have already reported to Yang Shuji. Our Security Section needs to expand. You submit a plan; try to request retired soldiers, and for the remaining quotas, select some from the factory's worker children and Red Star Village."

Hearing Li Xuewu say he wanted to expand, Han Yating was naturally happy.

Ever since the Steel Rolling Mill merger last year, the number of people had surged, and the Public Security Squad had been stretched thin.

Although Li Xuewu had expanded once after taking over the Security Section, manpower was still tight.

"Leader, how many are we expanding by? Is fifty enough?"

Li Xuewu smiled and said, "Be bolder, hehe, three companies."

"So many!"

It was no wonder Han Yating was surprised; when had the Steel Rolling Mill's Security Division ever fought such a wealthy battle?

Li Xuewu chuckled, "Recruit more, recruit enough for five companies."

"This..."

Han Yating asked, "Is it a elimination system?"

"Mm."

Li Xuewu nodded and said, "Select the best from the good. Form a mechanism. Also, I plan to professionalize the Firefighting Section's fire brigade."

The Steel Rolling Mill's fire brigade had always been voluntary; usually, they were young workers, training from time to time.

Only when a fire occurred would they be gathered from various divisions to participate in rescue missions.

Not just the Steel Rolling Mill; all factories in this era were set up this way.

The city was the same; there would be volunteer firefighters on the streets, and if there was danger, they would be notified one by one to put out the fire.

Truly professional fire brigades were only established in the eighties.

Now, this kind of voluntary, unprofessional team was not timely in dealing with danger, and their business was not professional. Facing danger was not only irresponsible to the danger, but also irresponsible to these volunteer firefighters.

Li Xuewu discussed this issue with Dong Wenxue and also communicated with the factory leadership.

The Steel Rolling Mill was a key unit; everyone feared fire and disaster, so no one dared to oppose Li Xuewu's suggestion to professionalize the fire brigade.

However, they raised objections regarding equipment updates and personnel usage, which was that the Security Division's budget was limited.

The factory leadership knew how good and expensive the Security Section's equipment was, and knew that the fire professionalization Li Xuewu proposed would definitely not be cheap.

And the feasibility plan Li Xuewu brought out confirmed this point.

Professional rescue vehicles, professional rescue equipment, professional rescue clothing, professional training grounds, professional rescue personnel.

According to Li Xuewu, this fire brigade could not only handle fires, but also handle dangerous chemical leaks, road traffic accidents, earthquakes, and their secondary disasters.

Business related to the Steel Rolling Mill also included building collapses, major safety production accidents, explosions, terrorist incidents, and rescue work for factory worker distress events.

Because Li Xuewu also held a position at the Dongcheng Branch, Li Xuewu was considering the fire safety needs of the worker residential areas in the city.

He proposed that the Steel Rolling Mill's fire brigade could participate in and cooperate in handling natural disasters such as water and drought disasters, meteorological disasters, geological disasters, and large-scale fires.

More special ones included mountain and water accidents, major environmental pollution, and sudden public health incidents.

The Steel Rolling Mill's leadership was scared by the requirements Li Xuewu proposed; the Steel Rolling Mill couldn't handle any of these if they were brought up.

To be able to deal with so many disasters, how much money would this team need to build?

The plan Li Xuewu gave was that the Steel Rolling Mill would increase the budget for the Security Division's Firefighting Section, but only for thirty percent of the cost of this plan, and the Security Division would raise the other expenses itself.

Yang Fengshan really wanted the fire brigade Li Xuewu spoke of; at least he could sleep peacefully at home in the future without worrying about accidents in the factory.

But hearing the construction amount Li Xuewu stated, his heart still ached with pain.

Especially Deputy Factory Director Nie, who managed the purse strings; he frowned and agreed with Li Xuewu's ideas and views, but also raised the difficulty of funding.

Although everyone agreed, Li Xuewu could still hear that these factory leaders didn't attach much importance to firefighting work.

How could there be production without accidents? How could there be no deaths during factory production?

This is called dedication!

And everyone couldn't raise objections to Li Xuewu's opinion of valuing worker life and the Steel Rolling Mill's property safety.

So, after Li Xuewu proposed that the Steel Rolling Mill only needed to be responsible for thirty percent of all funds, although everyone didn't know what madness Li Xuewu had caught to do such a thankless job, they all agreed to Li Xuewu's request.

Now Li Xuewu was preparing to deeply carry out the Security Division's major training activities, choosing suitable personnel to go to the Public Security Squad, the Security Squad, the Guard Team, and the Fire Brigade.

Han Yating asked in a low voice, "Division Chief, are you preparing to innovate the Firefighting Section?"

"Not exactly."

Li Xuewu shook his head and said, "The emergency plans and emergency plan drills that our division is currently implementing need a professional team to supervise and guide implementation. This time, the Firefighting Section is just an extension of the emergency system."

Han Yating muttered to herself, saying it was an extension, but wasn't it actually because the Firefighting Section was perfunctory when promoting emergency plan drills?

Li Xuewu continued, "Keep this in mind: Ji Weidong also promised me a batch of equipment, various weapons, etc. When you have time, go take a look. If there is anything practical or valuable, bring it back; it's just gathering dust there."

"Hahaha."

Han Yating smiled and said, "I'm just afraid he won't give it."

"It's fine, he's shy around female comrades."

Li Xuewu smiled and said, "If I go, he'll definitely hide it. It's better if you go than me."

After entrusting Han Yating and sending off this cheerful girl, Li Xuewu called Ji Weidong.

"Ahem, don't say I don't think of you, buddy. The girl is pretty; you'll see for yourself when the time comes."

"Alright, I'm busy. Less nonsense. Remember your buddy's kindness after it's done."

Li Xuewu hung up the phone, called Han Zhan and Wei Tong over to make arrangements, and only then went to the third floor to find Dong Wenxue.

At this moment, Dong Wenxue was also frowning at the full table of documents. Seeing Li Xuewu enter the room, he stood up, pointed to the documents on the table, and said, "Alright, these all have to be handed over to you to read."

"Hahaha."

Li Xuewu laughed, "Congratulations, Master, on your new appointment. May all your wishes come true."

"Hahaha."

Dong Wenxue also laughed, pointed at Li Xuewu, and said, "It's not just your master whose wishes have come true, right?"

"Hehe."

Li Xuewu smiled and sat on the sofa, saying, "Teacher and student are of one heart, and their sharpness can cut through metal. Now it's truly 'the sea is vast for fish to leap, and the sky is high for birds to fly'."

"Yes, the sea is vast and the sky is high."

Dong Wenxue looked at the sky outside and said, "This way, the space for maneuvering is larger."

It was just a sigh of emotion after victory; neither of them said much more on this topic.

Li Xuewu said, "Master, when do you plan to go to Steel City?"

"Why? Are you in a hurry?"

"Not at all!"

Li Xuewu smiled, "Just received notice from the branch; I have to go to Jinmen for training this afternoon. I was just thinking of asking when you're going to Steel City."

Dong Wenxue smiled and said, "You are my student; no matter what, I have to help you onto the horse and see you off for a stretch."

As he spoke, Dong Wenxue said to Li Xuewu, "Go to training with peace of mind. I'll wait for you to come back before going to Steel City."

"Will that delay your work?"

Dong Wenxue shook his head and said, "To resist foreign aggression, one must first settle internal affairs. The Steel Rolling Mill leadership suddenly used me to go to the Steel Mill just for my identity as Security Division Chief; they are using me to stabilize the situation."

"If I don't handle things well here, I won't be at ease when I go there."

This wasn't Dong Wenxue fighting for power with his student; on the contrary, this was clearing obstacles for Li Xuewu's future work.

He had been Deputy Division Chief for so many years and was clear about the Security Division; who had what work ability, what kind of personality, who was close to whom—now it was time to settle accounts.

Li Xuewu nodded. He had long understood why the Steel Rolling Mill leadership chose Dong Wenxue: in turbulent times, use heavy codes.

"I have handed over the Security Section's work to Han Yating; she is temporarily managing the Security Section."

Dong Wenxue nodded and asked, "Is she taking over? I remember you saying she wanted to go to the Comprehensive Section."

"Yes."

Li Xuewu nodded and said, "I think highly of her work attitude and ability, and female cadres are rare in our team. It's rare to have one with ability; I'm willing to give her a chance."

"Mm, that's fine."

Dong Wenxue stubbed out the cigarette in his hand in the ashtray and nodded, "Then let her go up."

He extinguished the cigarette butt and looked up to ask, "What are your thoughts on the fire professionalization you mentioned?"

Li Xuewu thought for a moment and said, "How about letting Han Zhan go? He's steady and reliable, and most importantly, loyal and trustworthy."

"Mm, the one from the Security Squad?"

"Yes."

Li Xuewu explained, "He has been on several missions with me and completed them all very well. He was also calm and composed in the face of difficulties during that time in Steel City."

Dong Wenxue thought for a moment and asked, "What are you planning to do with your fire plan? Where will the training funds come from?"

Li Xuewu explained, "I have already finished the training syllabus and training requirements; I'll just hand them directly to Han Zhan. He has training and management experience."

Seeing Dong Wenxue nod, Li Xuewu continued, "I have thought about the funding issue; temporarily divert the fees earned by the Security Section."

"Hahaha."

Dong Wenxue looked at Li Xuewu and asked with a smile, "Robbing Peter to pay Paul? If you use that money, what will the Security Section's training do in the future? Aren't you planning to expand the Security Section?"

Li Xuewu laughed, "You only saw security equipment and devices being sold for money; why do you think firefighting equipment and devices can't be sold for money?"

"Not necessarily, right?"

Dong Wenxue said suspiciously, "Security equipment and devices are daily necessities, so naturally, people are willing to spend money. But firefighting is not; who is willing to spend money?"

Li Xuewu thought for a moment and said, "They will. As long as there is a disaster nearby, I will pull the team over to advertise. I don't believe the things won't sell."

"You, you! You just have this kind of drive!"

Dong Wenxue shook his head and laughed, "Suit yourself. I'd like to see what you can stir up."

Li Xuewu knew Dong Wenxue had agreed to his arrangements.

Dong Wenxue wasn't in a hurry to go to Steel City; he wanted to make minor adjustments to the heads of various departments in the Security Division. This was also a reserved item after this major adjustment.

Why did the factory leadership only involve a small number of section-level cadre adjustments? The reason was to leave it to the heads of each division to adjust themselves.

After finishing the matter of Han Zhan, Li Xuewu mentioned transferring Fan Hua to be the Public Security Squad leader and Ren An to be the Security Squad leader.

Dong Wenxue didn't ask much about these internal Security Section matters and nodded in agreement. He was more concerned about the reserved land originally belonging to Fu Bin.

And whatever Li Xuewu wanted to do, he explained clearly to Dong Wenxue.

Of course, Li Xuewu didn't make any requests regarding personnel in the Confidential Section and Comprehensive Section.

Although Dong Wenxue wouldn't oppose it if Li Xuewu brought it up, everyone had their own connections.

Although Li Xuewu was the Deputy Division Chief presiding over daily work, he didn't want to appear too overbearing.

Only by having the capacity to tolerate others can one be tolerated by others.

This was also the reason why all deputy-division-level cadres in the Logistics Division, except for Old Zhang, were adjusted.

Before Li Xuewu could propose leaving, Dong Wenxue asked with a smile, "I heard you took Gu Ning to Steel City?"

"Hahaha."

Looking at Li Xuewu's slightly embarrassed expression, Dong Wenxue laughed, "This is the first time Gu Ning has left the sight of Gu Can and Aunt Ding. Alright, progress is quite fast."

Li Xuewu laughed, "Aunt Ding was worried, right?"

Dong Wenxue looked at Li Xuewu with a smile and said, "I don't know about that, but looking at Gu Ning's appearance when she returned, your mother-in-law was smiling quite happily."

As he spoke, he also said to Li Xuewu, "When I went over the night before last, she asked about you, saying she wanted to ask when it would be convenient for you to arrange a time for her and Gu Can to meet your parents."

Dong Wenxue could be considered the matchmaker for Li Xuewu and Gu Ning, so it was normal for him to convey this message on behalf of Ding Bianji.

Li Xuewu thought seriously and said, "My training will take half a month. After I come back, it's not just the Steel Rolling Mill's affairs; I also have to handle the branch's side. I have to smooth out the work on both sides before I can have time to consider this issue."

"Mm, no rush. Aunt Ding's meaning is also to prioritize your work. She knows you are currently facing adjustments."

Li Xuewu smiled and said, "If you have time to go over in the next few days, please thank Aunt Ding for me."

Dong Wenxue shook his head and laughed, "It's not like you don't have a phone; go thank her yourself."

After speaking, he exhorted, "Also, since you've decided to be in a relationship, treat it seriously; you can't be half-hearted."

"Yes, you know what kind of person I am. Don't worry."

Hearing Li Xuewu's answer, Dong Wenxue nodded and said, "I won't move from this office; you move to the one next door later."

Li Xuewu smiled and waved his hand, saying, "How can that be? That one is even bigger than this one."

Dong Wenxue pointed to the office and said, "Stop talking nonsense. I can't use it even if it's bigger. Arrange it yourself. I'll pick through these things to look at; you take a serious look later. They are all important documents for our division."

Li Xuewu nodded, greeted Dong Wenxue, and went downstairs.

Just as he reached the door, he saw Qin Huairu and Zhang Songying sitting in the room. Li Xuewu waved for them to sit, then beckoned to Han Yating in the office next door.

After Han Yating approached, Li Xuewu entrusted, "After I leave today, find a time to help me move the things in my office to the room at the end of the third-floor corridor."

"The room that was originally Fu Bin's?"

Han Yating asked in surprise, not knowing how this was arranged. Fu Bin's room was for proper division-level treatment.

Whether it was office furniture or area, it was better and larger than the deputy division chief's room, and there was a dedicated lounge.

Li Xuewu laughed, "Dong Chuzhang doesn't want to move, saying he doesn't need it."

Han Yating also knew what was going on. Everyone knew the relationship between Dong Wenxue and Li Xuewu, so it wasn't strange at this moment.

"Then, are the flowers and plants in your room moving up too?"

Li Xuewu looked at the green plants in the room; they were growing quite well, and looking at them in the middle of winter was comforting and easy on the eyes.

"Move them. They are all the kindness of the big sisters. Later, help me buy some candy and melon seeds to give to those big sisters in the Service Division, and just say I'll entrust them to take care of the office upstairs in the future."

"Hehe."

Han Yating smiled, "Division Chief, I'm working overtime and paying out of my own pocket. This matter is managed by the Comprehensive Section."

Li Xuewu laughed, "When Yu Decai comes, I'll have him treat you to a meal."

After entrusting a few words and sending off Han Yating, who wanted a favor, Li Xuewu turned around, closed the door, and entered the office.

Inside the room, Qin Huairu and the other were sitting uneasily. They hadn't dared to let their butts touch the sofa while waiting for Li Xuewu and Han Yating to talk at the door, just to stand up when Li Xuewu came in.

Li Xuewu waved again for them to sit down, then sat on the single-seat sofa.

Seeing Li Xuewu sit down, Qin Huairu pulled Zhang Songying, whose eyes were red, to sit down as well.

"Division Chief Li, it's my fault..."

Li Xuewu waved his hand to stop Qin Huairu, who had spoken first. He had been very angry last night, but today he didn't intend to lose his temper with them.

"I have to go to Jinmen today, so time is limited. Let's not talk about who is right or wrong; let's just talk about the matter."

Zhang Songying lowered her head, tears dripping onto her legs; she didn't dare look up at Li Xuewu.

Qin Huairu could also see Li Xuewu's unhappiness, so she didn't dare breathe loudly.

"I have a neighbor relationship with Qin Jie, so we take care of each other, but this is absolutely not the reason she can become a cadre at the guesthouse."

Li Xuewu looked at Qin Huairu and said, "I have had requirements for you: work well and put your mind on work. How did your thinking slide?"

"Yes, yes, yes, it's my fault."

Qin Huairu nodded busily to admit her mistake, then continued, "I also saw that Songying was truly in difficulty. Look at this muddled thing I've done."

As she spoke, Qin Huairu told Li Xuewu about Zhang Songying's encounter. Li Xuewu just lit a cigarette and listened.

After Qin Huairu finished speaking, Li Xuewu looked at Zhang Songying, who was crying harder and harder, and said, "If you have difficulties, you can find Xu Ning, find Qin Jie, or even find me. How could you be so radical?"

He reached out to flick the ash and continued, "You know what time it was last night. Something happening is a harm to you and a disrespect to me. Fortunately, nothing happened."

Zhang Songying looked up when she heard Li Xuewu's words; her eyes were already swollen from crying.

Clearly, they had... and he still said nothing happened...

Li Xuewu glanced at Zhang Songying and said, "Let last night's matter be a lesson. Don't be so reckless in the future."

"Yes."

Qin Huairu nodded and said, "It won't happen again."

Then she tentatively asked, "Then how is the personnel arrangement for the guesthouse going to be?"

Li Xuewu glanced at Qin Huairu and said with wide eyes, "Arranging for you to clean and wash sheets and quilt covers!"

"Hahaha."

Hearing Li Xuewu's angry words, Qin Huairu knew Li Xuewu's anger had dissipated, so she smiled and said, "Isn't that just helping you wash the sheets and quilt covers on the third floor? Songying washed them, saying she was sorry to you."

Li Xuewu looked at Zhang Songying, who was a bit embarrassed, and said, "Don't learn from Qin Huairu and send keys around randomly after you take charge of the Guest Room Squad."

Hearing Li Xuewu say this, Zhang Songying looked up suddenly, looking at Li Xuewu in disbelief.

And Qin Huairu also smiled happily, knowing the guesthouse personnel was settled.

Li Xuewu stood up and walked toward the desk, saying, "Go back and work well. Later, go thank Division Chief Zhang from Logistics."

"Yes!"

Qin Huairu pulled Zhang Songying up, nodded to Li Xuewu, greeted him, and pulled Zhang Songying away.

Zhang Songying's mind was still thinking about what Li Xuewu had just said. Now that they were out of the Security Building, she was pulling Qin Huairu's hand and about to cry again.

"Alright."

Qin Huairu pulled Zhang Songying's hand and reminded her softly, "Crying at this time isn't going to make people misunderstand? Let's go."

As she spoke, she pulled Zhang Songying and led her back.

Zhang Songying quickly wiped away her tears and asked, "Then... then he won't be angry with me anymore?"

Qin Huairu turned her head and looked at Zhang Songying with a smile, saying, "I don't know about that. Ask him yourself next time you go to his room."

"Qin Jie!"

Zhang Songying pulled Qin Huairu coquettishly and said, "I don't dare go anymore. There was a gun hidden under the pillow; it scared me to death."

Qin Huairu leaned close to Zhang Songying and asked softly, "Are you sure you were scared by the gun under the pillow?"

"Go away!"

Zhang Songying thought about what came in from behind last night...

"Are you still shy with him?"

Qin Huairu chuckled, "Go again next time. Even if he drives you away, you go."

Looking at Zhang Songying's blushing face, Qin Huairu didn't believe that nothing had happened between the two last night.

She guarded against her own sister being with Li Xuewu because she felt sorry for her sister—a flower-like maiden, what kind of life couldn't she have?

But Zhang Songying was different. Qin Huairu thought about how she was alone in the guesthouse, plus Li Xuewu's busyness—he wouldn't be home, and she wouldn't be able to contact him.

So when Zhang Songying proposed this request, Qin Huairu thought about it for several days, but still agreed.

Fighting with two people is always more powerful than one.

"You finally got into the room, and he didn't directly say you couldn't go today."

Zhang Songying's eyes widened in surprise when she heard Qin Huairu's words. Could it be like this?

At this moment, she heard Qin Huairu say in a slightly low tone, "It's all for a better life. How much is face worth?"

Zhang Songying didn't answer, but she had already made plans in her heart.

Li Xuewu sat behind the desk, hesitated for a moment, but still picked up the phone and called Ding Bianji's office.

"Hello, I'm looking for Ding Bianji. Yes."

As soon as he heard the confirmation of the name on the other side, he heard Ding Bianji answer the phone.

"Is that Xuewu?"

"Yes, Auntie, hello. I just finished talking with Master, and I want to ask for leave from you."

As he spoke, Li Xuewu explained his training, taking over the Security Division and the Dongcheng Public Security Division, and wanted to postpone the meeting between both parents.

When Ding Fengxia heard Li Xuewu asking for leave and talking about this matter, her eyes narrowed with a smile.

Although Li Xuewu didn't immediately arrange for both parents to meet, Li Xuewu's attitude made Ding Fengxia very satisfied, and she busily said to let Li Xuewu prioritize his work.

"Xuewu, I told Wenxue that I know you are busy with work. It's not too late to arrange it when you have time. Your Uncle Gu has the same meaning; he told me not to urge you. But Auntie was very happy to see Ning come back, so I couldn't help but say it."

"Thank you, Auntie. I have to leave this afternoon, so I won't go to your place. I'll come see you when I return."

"Good, good."

Ding Fengxia put down the phone, the smile on her face still there.

At this moment, a middle-aged woman in the same office asked with a smile, "What's the matter? So happy?"

"It's my son-in-law."

Ding Fengxia smiled and said, "He said he's going to Jinmen for training and is asking for leave from me."

"Oh, tsk tsk tsk."

The woman smiled and clicked her tongue, saying, "This son-in-law has truly won your heart. He even asks for leave from you when going out for training?"

Ding Fengxia smiled and said, "Not at all. It's because I said I wanted him to meet his father-in-law. Since he didn't have time, he asked for leave from me."

"Is your son-in-law that busy?"

"Isn't he!"

Ding Fengxia was just waiting for her to follow up and ask, otherwise how could she continue?

As she spoke, she glanced at the colleagues around her who were looking over and explained with a smile, "He is a security cadre at the Red Star Steel Rolling Mill outside Dongzhimen."

At this time, someone followed up and asked, "Is that the original Beijing Third Steel Mill? The newly merged one?"

"Yes, that's the one."

Ding Fengxia smiled and said, "He was just promoted to Deputy Division Chief. He said he's going to Jinmen for half a month of training and has to take over work when he returns."

Before Ding Fengxia could finish, the woman sitting opposite her narrowed her eyes and said, "A steel mill, and just a security cadre—how busy can he be? He doesn't even have time to arrange for his parents to meet? Our Zhou Lao Liu isn't that busy."

Ding Fengxia was happy today, so she didn't directly retort to the words from across the table. Zhou Lao Liu in the opposite family was the third-in-command of the Ministry of Light Industry.

The family conditions were similar to Ding Fengxia's. In this office, the two had a posture of "one mountain cannot hold two tigers, one table cannot hold two mothers," and they often bickered.

"Don't even mention our Zhou Lao Liu; just talk about our Old San's partner—he didn't say he was that busy."

"Hahaha."

Ding Fengxia chuckled and said, "Who told this child to be young? Only twenty years old; it's just the time for training."

"Only twenty?"

"Your Gu Ning is twenty-three, right?"

"Tsk tsk tsk, a twenty-year-old Deputy Division Chief!"

As she spoke, she didn't care about the surprised looks of the people in the office at her son-in-law's age and continued, "It's just like this: he handled some cases, had some achievements, and holds a concurrent position in the Dongcheng Branch—it seems to be Deputy Division Chief of the Public Security Division."

"Hiss~"

When everyone heard Ding Fengxia's words, they all gasped. Was this someone who started being a cadre from childhood?

After firing a chain of cannonballs at the woman opposite, Ding Fengxia continued, "Hey, it's worrying to talk about it. It's not as comfortable as your Old San's partner. Our child is too hardworking."

As she spoke, she glanced at the opposite side and continued, "He's a big, tall guy, over 1.8 meters, strong as an ox. Only the army could raise him. Fortunately, he's worthy of the physique the army raised; he has a whole row of medals."

The woman sitting opposite stared at Ding Fengxia. Showing off her son-in-law wasn't enough; she even had to kick her.

"That's pretty good, just right for your Old Gu's eye."

"Who says it isn't?"

Ding Fengxia said with a dissatisfied look, "If it were up to me, I'd have to think about whether my daughter is well-fed following him."

"Hahahaha."