[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":-1},["ShallowReactive",2],{"origin-the-siheyuan-food-love-and-family-in-1960s-beiji":3,"chapter-the-siheyuan-food-love-and-family-in-1960s-beiji-the-siheyuan-food-love-and-family-in-1960s-beiji-chapter-949":6},{"origin":4,"title":5},"chinese","The Siheyuan: Food, Love, and Family in 1960s Beijing",{"chapter":7,"nextChapterSlug":19,"prevChapterSlug":20,"totalChapters":21,"novelImage":22},{"id":8,"novel_id":9,"title":10,"slug":11,"index":12,"content":13,"wordcount":14,"created_at":15,"updated_at":15,"volume":16,"translator":17,"content_hash":18},2314999,4526,"Chapter 949: Meeting a Bad Person","the-siheyuan-food-love-and-family-in-1960s-beiji-chapter-949",949,"\u003Cp>Lou Ting was somewhat afraid of Li Xuewu, as evident from how he hid behind Tan Yali and dared not approach this side.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But his identity as a “civilized person” forbade him from showing weakness, so he tightly pursed his lips, his face still tense even while chewing his bun.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu stopped teasing him and ate steamed buns with Lou Yu, sipping rice porridge while chatting about recent busyness; as they spoke, Tan Yali attended to the child’s meal, listening quietly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lou Yu showed no emotion in his words; compared to the unpleasantness of their last meeting, he now seemed somewhat at peace.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Perhaps his stubborn attachment had been shattered by his daughter’s betrayal—flesh was flesh, whether on palm or back, and the deed was done.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He was stationed inland; even if he wished to use his paternal authority to mediate his children’s conflict, he was powerless to change anything.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>These past days, he had come to understand: the moment he chose his daughter as the balance between himself and Li Xuewu, the family’s power had already shifted—the scepter had been placed in his daughter’s hands by his own hand.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yet his lingering resentment, his craving for power and wealth, his obsession with life and career, remained.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Or perhaps the longing he felt upon seeing his wife and children in Hong Kong, the guilt of a father, drove him to take one more risk.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even if he lost, at worst he would die to atone, ensuring his daughter’s safety—and thus preserving the family’s wealth.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But he never imagined Li Xuewu would do nothing; instead, his own daughter had resolved it herself.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And today, Li Xuewu’s appearance, along with the arrival of his eldest grandson, clearly signaled that the matter was settled, finished.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Added to that, Tan Yali’s careful care for him and her patience and tolerance toward the grandson—he understood: knowing when to stop was the wise choice.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The original plan had been for him to manage the club and maintain contact with Hong Kong as an information hub, but now he had virtually nothing to do.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His daughter sending the grandson back was meant for Li Xuewu’s eyes—and his: from now on, only educate the grandson; no other matters concern you.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“The child is young—he still needs schooling.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu finished eating quickly, put down his chopsticks, wiped his mouth, glanced at the child peeking at him, and said to the two: “Go to the mountains. You must learn culture, but also principles. Hong Kong may be right at your doorstep, but it has no roots.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He glanced again at the child eavesdropping and added: “If your feet never touch the ground, you’ll float. Without grounding in the earth, you have no spiritual energy, right?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The response was Lou Yu’s silence and Tan Yali’s worried, hesitant expression.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“City life is still better…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Go to the mountains.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Before Tan Yali could finish her sentence, Lou Yu had already decided.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I don’t want to go to the mountains!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I don’t want to be a bandit!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lou Ting could no longer hold back—he threw his bun aside and cried out, scrambling toward the back of the kang.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He stared at Li Xuewu in terror, convinced this man was the bandit chief his grandmother had warned him about.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Otherwise, why would he keep dragging him up the mountain? Just by his look, he clearly intended to make him join the outlaws!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I don’t want to be a little bandit!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I don’t want to!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Waaah~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lou Ting was truly frightened, especially as he cried, his eyes locked on the villain.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Look, look—he knew I was crying, yet he still stared at me with that evil gaze and wicked grin!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Waaahhh~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“What’s this child talking about?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Tan Yali laughed and cried as she reached for Lou Ting’s hand, but he dodged away, as if fearing she would sell him off.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lou Yu put down his chopsticks. Hearing his grandson’s misunderstanding, he showed no amusement—only a heavy sigh.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu’s suggestion was also what he had hesitated over; a child’s education was vital to any family.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>When he was young, his father had placed great emphasis on his upbringing—hiring renowned teachers, teaching by word and example.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Thinking of his father, looking at his grandson, and reflecting on himself, he realized he had never been a good father.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At least, he was far worse than his own father.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Whether the broader environment or societal change, in the end, he himself had failed—neglecting his sons, letting them grow rich but without virtue, bringing suffering upon themselves.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His daughter had given him a chance to make amends: raise the eldest grandson well, restore the family’s pillar.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He did not know how much longer his body could hold out; he had waited here for days simply to meet Li Xuewu and put his lingering doubts to rest.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Pack up today. Leave tomorrow.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lou Yu straightened his posture, glanced at his wife, and slowly nodded: “Don’t coddle him. There won’t be any more buns.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I don’t want~! I want to go home~ Oh~ I want to go home~ I don’t want…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lou Ting kept scrambling toward the corner, crying louder and louder; even Tan Yali felt a pang of pity.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Maybe… wait a little longer?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Though she spoke to her husband, her eyes turned to Li Xuewu, seeking his opinion.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu paid it no mind—they were already in Beijing; what did he fear from their tantrums?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The stakes here needed no explanation from him, no threats—Lou Yu understood better than anyone.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>An adult from Hong Kong couldn’t even guarantee he’d keep his mouth shut; how much less could a child?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Especially Lou Ting’s identity—that was a major problem. If discovered, it would be a disaster.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Brother Wu?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Mm, come in.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As they spoke, someone greeted at the door—it was Zhou Xiaobai’s voice.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hearing Li Xuewu’s response, she lifted the curtain and stepped inside.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Mr. Lou, Auntie, good day.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhou Xiaobai smiled in greeting, then gestured toward Li Xuewu: “Someone from the recycling station is here—says they need to see you.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Mm, mm.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu stood, saying to Lou Yu and Tan Yali: “Get ready. If you need anything, tell Yu Li—she’ll arrange it.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He took the coat Zhou Xiaobai handed him, slipped it on, picked up his hat, smiled at the child who had stopped crying, then walked out.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lou Yu nodded, signaling him to go ahead—he needn’t worry about this side. Tan Yali saw them both out the door.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhou Xiaobai was sharp—seeing Tan Yali follow, she stepped ahead to wait by the courtyard gate.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Xuewu…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Tan Yali called out to Li Xuewu, but facing this son-in-law, she didn’t know what to say.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu understood her meaning, smiled faintly, and said: “Don’t worry, Mother. Everything’s fine.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I just feel I’ve wronged you.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Tan Yali wiped tears from her eyes, took a deep breath, and said: “For Xiao’e’s sake, bear with us.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Saying that makes you sound distant.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu gestured toward the main room: “Enough. Don’t overthink it. Go back inside—it’s cold.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Tan Yali watched Li Xuewu leave the courtyard before wiping her tears and turning back.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His daughter’s actions brought her comfort and worry alike—her family’s fate now rested on her son-in-law’s decisions.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She had finally eased years of pent-up bitterness, yet couldn’t bear to see her husband wither away—so she took the initiative, mending ties with the child and her husband.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But this seemed to undermine her children’s good intentions, and she feared Li Xuewu might misinterpret.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Life has no scale, no fairness—only the pursuit of peace.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhou Xiaobai walked beside Li Xuewu, sneaking glances at him, her lips curling involuntarily; their synchronized steps revealed her joy.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu turned to her, smiling lightly: “What are you smiling about? What’s so happy?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Nothing~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhou Xiaobai pursed her lips, shook her head gently: “Isn’t this how I usually am?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu studied her: “You’re not dating someone, are you?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“What?!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhou Xiaobai’s face changed; she pouted indignantly: “I’m not!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Alright, alright, alright~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing her truly flustered, Li Xuewu quickly soothed: “I was just teasing you—why are you taking it seriously?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I don’t like jokes like that.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhou Xiaobai glanced at Li Xuewu, then lowered her head and walked ahead, as if deeply wronged.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu followed helplessly, watching her pout—she reminded him of Li Xue.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The management office was in a meeting; Yu Li had no time to receive him—it was Shen Guodong who had summoned him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In Yu Li’s office, Li Xuewu sat down, and Zhou Xiaobai brought him tea, handed it over without acknowledging his thanks, then stormed off.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shen Guodong was baffled—he stared blankly at the door, then turned back to Brother Wu, eyes wide with disbelief.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He wasn’t a naive boy—he understood plenty about romantic feelings. He’d seen Brother Wu’s flirtations before, but this shock came from thinking… she’s so young, and he still goes for it?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“What are you thinking?!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu picked up two cigarettes, noticed Shen Guodong’s odd gaze, and tossed one over with a sigh.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shen Guodong chuckled sheepishly—he knew his face gave everything away, and Brother Wu had seen right through him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“She’s too young~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“What’s too young?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu glanced at him: “She’s wearing a cotton-padded coat—it hides her figure.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Besides, you’ve got guts—aren’t you afraid Xiao Yan will beat you up?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“No, I didn’t mean that!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shen Guodong twitched his lips, looking at Wu Ge with a sense of helplessness: “I’m talking about age—she’s only in her teens. You doing this… that… isn’t it inappropriate?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Nonsense!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu lit a cigarette, squinting at him: “Your Wu Ge is a man of integrity, upright to the core. Do you really think I’m that kind of person…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Clang~!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The moment he finished speaking, the office door was flung open, startling both men.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In walked Zhou Xiaobai, who had just left, rushing back in without even noticing Shen Guodong’s stunned expression. She stepped up to Li Xuewu, bent down, wrapped her arms around his head, and kissed him full on the lips.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Both Li Xuewu and Shen Guodong reacted identically—eyes wide, utterly bewildered.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhou Xiaobai used up all her courage and oxygen; only when she could barely breathe did she release Li Xuewu.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She stood up, glaring stubbornly at Li Xuewu as she caught her breath, said nothing, and turned to walk out.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>When the sound of the door closing reached them, the two men stared at each other. Shen Guodong looked at Li Xuewu with a knowing smirk; Li Xuewu wore the expression of a wronged man.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Wu Ge… cough… she’s too young.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Get out! I’m innocent!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu glared, cursing: “Didn’t you see her assault me? Why didn’t you stop her?!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“You’re talking to me? ~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shen Guodong sneered: “Don’t say that if you’re not lying. You’re strong enough to take on five or six big men at once—now you expect me to stop a girl?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Of course I could’ve stopped her!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu waved the cigarette in his hand: “But I had a cigarette in my hand, which limited me. Besides, she grabbed my head the moment she came at me—I was defenseless.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Hmm, defenseless… true.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shen Guodong couldn’t argue with him, nodded seriously: “Three minutes defenseless—you didn’t lift a finger. I can testify to that!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Go on! Don’t go spreading this outside!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu wiped his lips and warned: “The girl doesn’t understand anything. Youth is impulsive. Don’t ruin her reputation.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shen Guodong clearly saw the girl was chasing after Wu Ge—but he also saw Wu Ge hadn’t refused.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He knew Wu Ge’s tactics with young girls too well: the Three No’s were familiar to him—he’d just never put them into practice.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Today, only because he was here, something might’ve happened.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Last night, someone came to the house.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shen Guodong quickly changed the subject, eager to finish and avoid seeing anything else he shouldn’t.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“It was Biao Ge’s father-in-law himself who came to deliver the invitation, asking you to dinner.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Mr. Mai? Inviting me to dinner?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu raised an eyebrow, flicked ash from his cigarette, and asked: “What’s the meaning?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Biao’s father-in-law and mother-in-law lived right here—why come all the way to Sihe Academy with an invitation? Playing games?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“It was arranged through Mr. Mai.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shen Guodong spoke carefully: “Along with the invitation, they sent a jade ornament. Second Master examined it—he said it’s valuable.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Did you keep the gift?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu glanced at his cigarette, squinted slightly, thinking through the implications.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shen Guodong shook his head slightly: “We didn’t keep the gift—only accepted the invitation. Mr. Mai explained on their behalf and arranged for them to wait for you here this morning.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As he spoke, he placed the invitation on the desk before Li Xuewu.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu took it, opened it, and immediately knew who it was from.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shen Guodong stood beside him, hesitating: “Wu Ge, who is this Mr. Ma…?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Mm.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu confirmed Shen Guodong’s suspicion, exhaled smoke, and lowered his eyelids: “He’s here to see me.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“He’s probably already in the back courtyard.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shen Guodong asked softly: “Should I…?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Let’s see.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu didn’t outright refuse the invitation—not because he cared about the jade ornament, but because Mr. Mai was staying here.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He’d met the couple a few times; he knew their temperaments well. They wouldn’t easily let someone else deliver such an invitation—there was definitely an unavoidable obligation here.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Coming to him, it was about Biao’s favor, and also about the bond the couple had formed in mentoring Tong Huimei and the others.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hearing Li Xuewu agree to meet, Shen Guodong explained softly: “Biao Ge called back specifically—he said you don’t need to care about his father-in-law’s face…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Let him mind his own business.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu knew Mr. Mai must’ve informed Biao. Between brothers, favors had to be returned.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He crushed out his cigarette, glanced out the window, and said: “Go invite Mr. Mai and the others over. No need for dinner—it’s unnecessary.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“It’s not really about food.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shen Guodong reminded Li Xuewu. Seeing Wu Ge look over, he pursed his lips: “You’ll find out soon enough.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Watching Shen Guodong leave, Li Xuewu tilted his head back, wondering what the kid meant—his words made no sense.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He picked up his teacup, took a sip, felt the taste was off, and wiped his lips again.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A few dark red spots landed on his hand—he knew he was bleeding. No wonder it hurt.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Thinking of the girl’s boldness, he muttered to himself: “Kiss if you want to kiss—why bite so hard? You bit my tongue!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This girl just isn’t as good as a married woman…\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He said it wasn’t real food—and it wasn’t!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Mr. and Mrs. Mai sat awkwardly on the sofa, heads bowed, avoiding Li Xuewu’s gaze.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>On the single sofa beside them, the girl was carefully taking items out of a suitcase one by one.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Jade cabbage, agate pork belly, ivory radish, crystal fish, pearl eggs…\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu sat behind his desk, watching her arrange the dishes on the coffee table. His initial confusion and surprise were now hidden beneath his expression.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Mr. Mai had already introduced her—he said the girl’s surname was Mei, Mei Xiaohong, and she was Yu Lanfang’s sworn sister.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In the 1980s, this term was still acceptable—closer than friends, but later it became improper.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Sworn brothers, sworn sisters—like “miss,” “princess,” “lady”—all had become slaves to economics.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Of course, economics didn’t just attack relationships—it also ruined the industrial sector. Terms like “technician,” “pile driver,” had been corrupted too.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Mei Xiaohong had finished arranging the jade and gemstone dishes from her father’s gift box, and now turned to Li Xuewu.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Director Li, my father is unwell and cannot come to pay his respects. He has sent me to apologize on his behalf.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As she spoke, Mei Xiaohong bowed slightly, then raised her head and gestured toward the dishes: “These are items my father asked me to bring, hoping you might help…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“You are…?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu heard enough. Before she finished, he gestured toward her: “You’re Mei—so who is Mr. Mei to you…?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Director Li.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Mr. Mai chuckled nervously, stepping in: “I studied opera under Mr. Mei—I’m his student. Xiaohong is Mr. Mei’s eldest daughter, so she’s also my junior sister.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“My apologies.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Mei Xiaohong, well-mannered, waited until Mr. Mai finished, then bowed slightly to Li Xuewu.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then she turned to Mr. Mai: “Father, before he passed, still remembered you, Senior Brother. Don’t belittle yourself—you’re my senior brother.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Mr. Mai held to old customs. He wasn’t afraid of taking responsibility—he feared offending the master-disciple relationship.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In opera circles, lineage was identity, a symbol of ability, the craft that fed you, the foundation of your standing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Later, that fat little black guy caused so many scandals—mostly because this relationship system collapsed under changing times.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Students who studied opera weren’t disciples—they couldn’t call themselves the master’s heirs or successors.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Unlike today, where even distant acquaintances call their teacher “gracious master”—back then, people had pride.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Mr. Mai clarified the relationship to explain to Li Xuewu—and to make things easier for Mei Xiaohong.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Mei Xiaohong emphasized the master-disciple bond now—partly out of gratitude for Senior Brother’s kindness in helping, partly because it was true.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her father had taught many students and received many seekers—but only Mr. Mai, humble, honest, and devoted to his art, left a deep impression.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu now understood the relationships in the room. He pointed at the dishes and asked: “Mr. Mai invited me to dinner?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I’m truly sorry. If there had been any other way, we’d never have disturbed you.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Mei Xiaohong spoke with great courtesy: “My father is unwell, and upon hearing of my sworn brother Yu Lanfang’s troubles, he grew deeply distressed.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She glanced at Mr. and Mrs. Mai, then explained: “I learned you, as an expert, had taken over this case. I inquired everywhere, and finally came to Senior Brother Xiao Tian.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Director Li, this case…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Mr. Mai was uneasy, afraid of being rebuffed by Li Xuewu. He’d contacted his son-in-law first, then came here.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As his son-in-law said, he’d done all he could—fulfilling the bond of the opera lineage.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I knew Yu Lanfang well. I know his character—he’d never dare cheat or kill for money.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Don’t say that.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hu Huilan nudged her husband, gave him a look, then took Mei Xiaohong’s hand and explained to Li Xuewu: “We know each other, but we don’t know the tensions between Yu Lanfang and his wife.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Xiaohong didn’t come today to prove anything, nor to pressure you.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her tone was sincere: “We just heard you’re involved in the case. We wanted to prepare ourselves mentally—so we’d be ready when we speak to Mr. Mai.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Mei Xiaohong was in her early twenties, had met many cadres with her father—even higher-ranking ones.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Coming to beg a Director now was sheer desperation—her former status and honor had collapsed in this year, becoming a burden.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hu Huilan spoke gently—but that was her purpose. If she spoke plainly, she didn’t know if she’d offend someone.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>So when his sister-in-law reminded him, he quickly nodded in agreement.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu looked at the three of them and slowly nodded. “Yes, I took on this case, but I didn’t get deeply involved.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I’ve met Yu Lanfang twice. Her physical and mental condition are both fine—rest assured on that.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Thank heaven!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Mei Xiaohong let out a long breath; the tension on her face finally eased, and she couldn’t help but sigh.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Mai Xiaotian sensed there was more to Li Xuewu’s words and didn’t relax like Mei Xiaohong. Instead, he asked softly: “Then… his problem?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At this question, Mei Xiaohong, who had just relaxed, tensed up again, gripping Hu Hui’s hand and staring at Li Xuewu.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“This isn’t something I can discuss.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu tapped his lighter on the table and explained: “All cases require confidentiality. I can’t say anything related to the case here.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He then waved his hand to stop Mei Xiaohong from speaking. “The complexity of this case is beyond your imagination. Right now, I can only check on his condition for you.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Thank you, thank you, Director Li!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Mei Xiaohong hadn’t gotten a clear answer, but seeing Li Xuewu pick up the phone to help, she kept thanking him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Connect me to the branch, Dongcheng.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“This is Li Xuewu. I’d like to speak with the Criminal Investigation…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He called directly to the head of the Criminal Investigation Unit, not Lai Shanchuan.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The case wasn’t closed—it was still under investigation—so Li Xuewu remained an investigating officer.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>So when Li Xuewu called to ask about the investigation, they didn’t hide anything and gave him a full update.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>New leads have surfaced: neither of the two families involved were ordinary people. They weren’t ultra-rich, but their daily lives were comfortable.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>According to the investigation, Zhao Ziliang was quite capable, generous and sociable, with many friends who relied on him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Whenever he had a business trip, he’d buy local specialties for relatives and friends, and gradually his finances improved.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>When they searched Zhao Ziliang and Du Xiaoyan’s home, they found no large amounts of cash, but the furniture, appliances, and clothing were complete and luxurious.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Du Xiaoyan didn’t know the source of her husband’s income beyond his salary, and both were big spenders who never kept detailed accounts.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Another team of investigators discovered that Zhao Ziliang frequently traveled on business and had many immoral habits.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Aside from Zhang Shuqin, he had other mistresses scattered across various places, mostly financial relationships.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Evidence found in both homes showed that over the past two years, Zhao Ziliang had bought many things for Zhang Shuqin.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The joint venture factory’s internal audit also revealed that Zhao Ziliang had repeatedly violated rules in expense reimbursement, with many receipts mismatched.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This discovery didn’t uncover evidence of Zhao Ziliang conspiring with Zhang Shuqin to commit fraud or murder, but it did expose his embezzlement.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The head of the Criminal Investigation Unit told Li Xuewu over the phone that the family’s extravagance had reached such a level it surprised even him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In this era, people mostly wore only two colors year-round: men wore black and blue, women wore white and gray.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If a young man or woman wore bright, high-quality clothing, their status was certainly extraordinary.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Ziliang and his wife’s clothing fabrics were especially diverse—cotton, gauze, silk, wool, and more—and they had so many clothes their wardrobes couldn’t hold them all.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>According to Du Xiaoyan’s neighbors, the couple were both refined people; they gave away any clothes that were even slightly worn.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Ziliang often traveled on business, dressed fashionably, with a wide variety of shoes to match his outfits. The investigators said the shoe rack looked like a department store display.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Du Xiaoyan got her hair done three times a month. Her attire was no less stylish than her husband’s—she looked even more cosmopolitan than a female model.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In ordinary households, meals were either cooked at home or by elders, but their family hired a retired master chef to help cook.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>While other families ate meat only once a month, their home never lacked chicken, duck, fish, pork, fruits, or vegetables—even the cook ate with them.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>When investigators visited the old chef, he said Zhao’s meals were overly greasy—every meal was meat—and he had to chew on a few radish strips every night to cut the grease.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu listened to the phone call, stunned. How immense must their wealth be to live so lavishly in this era?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As for money, Li Xuewu had a modest fortune himself—he could afford to eat and dress like this.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But he couldn’t understand this lifestyle: how much embezzlement, how much illicit wealth had to be smuggled home just to sustain this household?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This Zhao Ziliang was something else—he’d be an economics genius in the future, a grandmaster of the black-market traders!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The head of the Criminal Investigation Unit believed the investigation should now focus squarely on Zhao Ziliang—he was the prime suspect.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because the joint venture’s internal audit uncovered his rule violations, the disciplinary inspection department has also stepped in.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>No wonder Li Xuewu said this case was especially complex—it involved too many issues and too many variables, making it truly hard to investigate.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Currently, the disciplinary inspection department is investigating Zhao Ziliang; both agencies are moving forward in tandem, cooperating closely, aiming to find Zhao Ziliang or confirm his criminal acts.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>When Li Xuewu asked about Yu Lanfang, the head of the Criminal Investigation Unit explained that after the fact, Director Lai had spoken with Yu Lanfang, asking if he knew Zhao Ziliang.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Lanfang said he didn’t know him personally but had heard of him—he wasn’t sure whether Zhao had an affair with his wife.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The head of the Criminal Investigation Unit’s point was that, without confirmed evidence of Zhao Ziliang’s crime, Yu Lanfang still had motive and suspicion.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They also lacked the manpower to investigate Yu Lanfang’s alibi or whether the two had any connection at all.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lai Shanchuan had staked everything on pursuing Zhao Ziliang.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu understood Lai Shanchuan: resources were limited. The target had already surfaced—was it better to detain Yu Lanfang longer, or assign personnel to clear his name? The answer required no thought.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>During Lai Shanchuan’s final interrogation of Yu Lanfang, he had already laid it out: by the end of this month, if Zhao Ziliang wasn’t found, Yu Lanfang would be released.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The head of the Criminal Investigation Unit’s meaning was clear: the case must be resolved before month’s end—even if only by issuing a wanted notice.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu hung up the phone and, regardless of how much the three had heard, spoke up: “Criminal cases are often extremely difficult. Detention doesn’t equal guilt—it’s also a form of protection.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I understand.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Mei Xiaohong and the other two sat far away and hadn’t heard clearly, but they could read something from Li Xuewu’s expression.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Father is very worried about Elder Brother. I’m afraid something might happen to him—and if it does, Father might…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Go back. Wait a few days.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu nodded and reassured: “He won’t be mistreated inside. No one dares to act recklessly. Don’t worry.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Thank you, thank you, Director Li!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Mei Xiaohong bowed slightly, repeatedly expressing her gratitude.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu smiled and gestured to the items on the coffee table, indicating to Mai Xiaotian: “Please take these back. I’ve already eaten breakfast—I can’t finish all these delicacies.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Director Li…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Mei Xiaohong insisted: “Father made it clear beforehand: he can’t keep these items, and he no longer cares about them. They’re simply a token of thanks—nothing more.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Then I can’t accept them.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu waved his hand and gestured to Mai Xiaotian: “I won’t lecture you on work discipline. Mr. Mai is my brother’s father-in-law—he’s family. If I took these, I’d lose my honor.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“This…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Mei Xiaohong anxiously looked to her senior brother, hoping he’d intervene—these items absolutely couldn’t be taken back.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not keeping them was one thing, but once you give something to ask for a favor, you can’t take it back—otherwise, the matter becomes impossible.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Mai Xiaotian saw Li Xuewu truly refused, and Mei Xiaohong refused to retract them—he was caught in the middle.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But his wife, Hu Hui, was clever. She took Mei Xiaohong’s hand and said to Li Xuewu: “Since Director Li finds it inconvenient, we absolutely cannot trouble you with these items.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Sister-in-law~…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Mei Xiaohong was about to protest, but Hu Hui squeezed her hand to cut her off.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“We’ve lived in this club for some time now.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hu Hui smiled. “I heard a literary and arts center is being built next door? Director Li, your righteousness is admirable.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She first praised Li Xuewu, then gestured to the precious jade on the table: “Mr. Ma is the leading figure of the opera world. He should contribute to this literary and arts cause.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Mei Xiaohong caught her meaning and immediately followed along: “Yes, Director Li. Father’s heartfelt gesture—please don’t refuse.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Heh, Auntie, you’re putting me in a tough spot.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu smiled wryly and shook his head. “Our club is a collective, internal facility—we can’t accept gifts from Mr. Ma.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I understand. I’m sorry for the trouble.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hu Hui apologized. “Let this fulfill Xiao Hong’s wish—and Mr. Ma’s sense of righteousness.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Then…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing Li Xuewu still resisting, Mai Xiaotian suddenly spoke: “Mr. Ma’s health is poor—he can no longer perform on stage, but he can still guide students.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He glanced at his wife and added: “Tong Huimei and Jin Jiaojiao are both raw gems, with no formal master-disciple lineage—they’d be perfect candidates for Mr. Ma’s mentorship.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Mei Xiaohong didn’t know what her senior brother meant, but she sensed these two girls were somehow connected to Director Li.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Indeed, after he said this, Li Xuewu stopped resisting.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Senior brother, Director Li—Father’s health is truly poor. Let me return and consult him before making any decision.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Mei Xiaohong was a cautious girl; she wouldn’t make decisions for her father in public. She explained clearly, effectively accepting the condition.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Mai Xiaotian pressed his hand on the table items and quietly explained to Mei Xiaohong about Tong Huimei and Jin Jiaojiao, hinting at the importance of this connection.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Mei Xiaohong took it seriously and said she’d return immediately to her father and give a reply at once.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu was about to suggest she take the items back, but Mei Xiaohong firmly refused and stood up to leave.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing Li Xuewu’s gesture, Mai Xiaotian held Mei Xiaohong back and called over Wang Xiaoqin and Wei Qing, who were exercising in the neighboring courtyard. They prepared a donation certificate, and the matter was settled.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Mai Xiaotian and his wife worried about miscommunication and feared Mei Xiaohong couldn’t explain properly, so they spoke a few words to Li Xuewu and accompanied her to visit Mr. Ma.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu didn’t care much for the stones—he was far more surprised by the unexpected opportunity for Tong Huimei and Jin Jiaojiao than Wang Xiaoqin’s exclamations of wonder.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If they could become Mr. Ma’s disciples, it would give these rootless wanderers a true foundation.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Mr. Ma’s last disciple closes one door—given his health and current circumstances, that door will surely be shut forever.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“What a fucking mess!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Damn it, if I see him again, I’ll beat him to a pulp!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Enough already~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Yuanchao, hearing the constant chatter beside him, irritably reminded: “They’re taking photos over there—don’t embarrass the family.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“We’ve only got this one face left.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhang Haiyang spat, picked up five whole bricks, and grumbled as he walked: “I can’t believe you know this bastard—he even scams his own people!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Fine, fine, fine—I guess I just got unlucky, alright~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Yuanchao picked up five bricks too and walked beside him, explaining: “This bastard must’ve been bitter about getting scammed here himself, so he dragged us down with him.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Now I get why they looked like ghosts when I ran into them at the gate last time—it was all this!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“It’s not just us!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhang Haiyang gestured to the hundreds around them and said: “Those bastards went around boasting about how great the steel mill’s reception program was—movies, free meals, even talk sessions with the dance troupe. They lied like crazy.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Just wait—we’ll finish this task, walk out that gate, and kill them!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Even if we don’t lift a finger, these people won’t let them off easy!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Honestly, Zhong Yuemin was a sly little devil—he and the three of them tasted the sweet lie, then went around spreading how wildly fun the steel mill was, promoting their “experience of reform.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>These brats just gathered to blow smoke at each other—turning one point into a hundred.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The first ones to believe them were Li Yuanchao and his crew; after returning, they invited Zhang Haiyang’s group—classic “share the fortune.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But who could’ve guessed? No fortune came—instead, they got stuck doing hard labor.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>No choice—they were all ambitious youths, and this time the reception staff were more experienced, even arranging interviews by the radio station.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They said that after the labor, they’d pick representatives for interviews, and publish the reports in the newspaper.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>These young people couldn’t handle the pressure—they nearly collapsed from exhaustion.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The propaganda workers clutched cameras, never changing film rolls, just snapping away nonstop.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>No one knew if the photos were real or just to trick them—but whenever the lens turned their way, they had to work harder.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhang Haiyang kept complaining, constantly asking Li Yuanchao: “Was it fulfilling?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Yuanchao looked just as defeated, saying: “After this, I’m going to settle accounts with Zhong Yuemin.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After the brick-moving ended, they never expected the dance troupe’s talk session to actually happen.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Holy hell—the soaked, shivering chicks among them suddenly came alive again, the boys standing tall like roosters.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhang Haiyang stared at the girls and whispered to Li Yuanchao: “Man, this is damn beautiful!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Yuanchao nodded dreamily: “Beautiful, beautiful—truly damn beautiful~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The day was long, but the talk session was short. When they pushed their carts out the steel mill’s gate and looked back, they wore the same expression they’d seen on Zhong Yuemin and his crew before.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The steel mill’s event was wildly popular—those who missed the sign-up were waiting at the gate, asking if the tour was fun.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Someone asked Li Yuanchao and Zhang Haiyang. They exchanged glances, then both nodded at the man: “Extremely fulfilling! Extremely beautiful!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>There were honest ones among the brats—nearly a thousand people came over two rounds; someone had to tell the truth.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But in this group of brats, how many were truly honest?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>There were—just not many~\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Especially after hearing Li Yuanchao and Zhang Haiyang say that, everyone copied them, shouting along: “Extremely fulfilling! Extremely beautiful!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Soon, sign-ups for the steel mill’s exchange program flooded in—it became a viral hotspot.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After every event, those waiting at the gate always heard the same chant: “Extremely fulfilling! Extremely beautiful!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But less than two months later, all the brats at the steel mill gate vanished—none showed up anymore.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>No one said the brick-moving was hard—they all claimed the steel mill’s reform was so good, no exchange was needed anymore.\u003C\u002Fp>",5676,"2026-06-20T13:47:03.676Z",1,"Qwen3-Next 80B","0414460049fb4afd8b190c78db0bb91574a0e2dc3dd1f61316d263e66eabdbd0","the-siheyuan-food-love-and-family-in-1960s-beiji-chapter-950","the-siheyuan-food-love-and-family-in-1960s-beiji-chapter-948",1000,"https:\u002F\u002Fnovelzhen.com\u002Fimages\u002Fcovers\u002Fthe-siheyuan-food-love-and-family-in-1960s-beiji-cover.jpg"]