[{"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-963":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},2315013,4526,"Chapter 963: Only Talk of Wind and Moon","the-siheyuan-food-love-and-family-in-1960s-beiji-chapter-963",963,"\u003Cp>“Just got back, and you’re already leaving?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yi Zhonghai, wearing a blue cotton robe and holding a hammer, smiled and greeted Li Xuewu as he stepped out of the house.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I’m stepping out for a bit, but I’ll be back tonight.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu first nodded, then pointed at the hammer in his hand and asked, “What are you going to…?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“The window frame of the gatehouse has cracked—I’m going to fix it.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yi Zhonghai always wore that same broad, kind smile; as one of the elder men in the courtyard, he also doubled as the maintenance worker.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Each household’s repairs were naturally none of his concern, but someone had to take charge of the courtyard’s shared facilities.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“You’re awfully busy.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu lit himself a cigarette, walked over to the elder man waiting for him, studied him for a moment, and asked, “Your health’s recovered well, right?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“All better, completely better.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The elder man nodded with a smile and walked out with Li Xuewu, saying as they went, “How busy can I get? It’s just this little work.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He glanced at Li Xuewu and asked, “Just now, someone in the courtyard said you explained the factory’s policy on housing replacement?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Ah! Seven out of ten households here are factory workers.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Before Li Xuewu could answer, he sighed and added, “If everyone moves out, I might not even have any work left.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“What? You don’t want to live in the new building?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu took a drag of his cigarette and smiled. “Everyone dreams of living in an apartment—clean and convenient.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Heh~ I’m just afraid I won’t get used to it.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yi Zhonghai shook his head slightly. “My wife and I are old enough to manage, but when we’re truly frail, with stiff legs, who’ll help us downstairs?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Still, the new building is a good thing.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He nodded firmly at Li Xuewu. “Whether for standardized factory management or daily convenience, it’s a major improvement!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“If someone like you, a model worker, says it’s good, then the factory has done the right thing.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu smiled to reassure him. “If you find the floors too high, you can choose the first floor—easy to come and go.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Since you and Auntie live alone, a simple forty-square-meter unit—a one-bedroom, one-living-room with kitchen and bathroom—would be easy to manage.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Of course, that’s perfect for Elder Yi’s household!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Old Seven stood outside the courtyard, holding a handsaw, smoking, with two wooden benches against the wall and several planks of wood beside them—clearly helping Elder Yi.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He had sharp ears and had already heard their conversation; now that they stepped out, he chimed in with a grin: “Forget forty square meters—even the biggest eighty-square-meter unit, Elder Yi could afford!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Heh, Old Seven, your family’s big—you’d need eighty square meters.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu teased him lightly, deflecting the remark so Elder Yi wouldn’t be embarrassed by his bluntness.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Elder Yi glanced at him, still smiling, and said, “I’ll see. There’s still an old lady in the back courtyard.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Ah~~~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Old Seven shook his head dramatically. “If I’d known the factory would do this, I should’ve listened to my dad and bowed to the old lady to care for her.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“You? Heh~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu smirked. “With your and Seventh Sister’s temper? You’d be quarreling every other day—you’d have sent the old lady off before the housing swap even happened.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Hahaha~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Old Seven had been delighted since Li Xuewu called him “Seventh Brother.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Back when they all lived in the courtyard, Li Xuewu was younger—he’d always called him Seventh Brother.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But that was then. Now Li Xuewu was no longer the same—he was Li Deputy Director, a factory leader.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yet look—he still called him Seventh Brother whenever he returned to the courtyard!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Others might insult his wife and he’d fly into a rage, but when Li Xuewu first greeted her as “Seventh Sister,” then joked afterward, it was just playful.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>So he laughed loudest of all, with no regret over missing out on the extra housing area he could’ve gained by caring for the old lady.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Such men speak without thinking, but their hearts are simple; though they’re careless in daily life, they’re honest and upright.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even Elder Yi, who’d just been slighted, didn’t hold it against him—clear proof Old Seven wasn’t bad.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Would someone with ulterior motives help Elder Yi fix the gatehouse window?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Look at Yan Fugui—he won’t even glance at the courtyard when he’s just strolling around, afraid of spending money or lifting a finger.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Deputy Director Li, do regular workers get replacement housing, but what about leaders?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Why are you curious about that?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu glanced at him, smiled, and nodded. “Leader housing is more specialized—there are tiered subsidies and additional bonuses for special contributions.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“What? Then why don’t we get any?!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Old Seven’s face darkened instantly. He glared. “That’s unfair!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Elder Yi frowned slightly, about to reprimand him, but Li Xuewu waved him off.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Who told you workers don’t get anything?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu raised an eyebrow. “Regular workers and regular cadres get no special treatment.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“But senior cadres and mid-to-high-level workers both receive position- and skill-based benefits, including consideration for special contributions.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Take Elder Yi—he’s a Grade 8 worker, eligible for the same housing benefits as a department-level cadre.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“And you, Seventh Brother?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu looked at Old Seven. “You’ve been in the factory ten years—when are you going to pass your Grade 3 exam?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Grade 3? What’s the point? Only six yuan and sixty fen more.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Old Seven slumped, his neck stiff—he knew Li Xuewu hadn’t mentioned this at the gatehouse because none of them were senior workers, and few even had mid-level ones.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Someone like Elder Yi, with a stack of awards, was rare—telling them wouldn’t help.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Especially with Liu Guangqi still around—he came here just to retire for the housing. If Li Xuewu explained this policy, he’d stew over it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Why?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because Second Elder used to be a Grade 7 worker, had won many awards and honors, and would’ve qualified for major housing benefits.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But now? Second Elder barely kept his job—he’d have to pay out of pocket just to swap housing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Could Liu Guangqi, with his petty mind, handle that psychological blow?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Old Seven, even if he was simple-minded, finally understood.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I… I’m just like this.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He shrugged, his earlier resentment fading, a smile returning as he asked Li Xuewu, “Your family has so many houses—you’re a factory leader, you’ll definitely swap for the biggest one!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As he spoke, he glanced at Elder Yi. “What’s the largest size in the leader building? One hundred twenty square meters?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He sighed in awe. “Good heavens! Over a hundred square meters—how many people can live there!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Hmm. I’m not swapping.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu didn’t hide his thoughts—he spoke plainly. “Our household registration was split long ago. My parents’ house won’t be given to me.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“The back-facing rooms here are for the west courtyard. The back courtyard is meant for my grandfather—he’ll live there in retirement.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He flicked ash, took a drag, then added: “My current place is close to Xiao Ning’s hospital—it’s convenient for her.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Yeah, that makes sense.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Old Seven finished his cigarette, crushed it on a wooden plank, and nodded. “Ever since the housing policy came out, everyone’s been anxious. Hearing you explain it, I feel at ease.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Go by what’s convenient for you.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Elder Yi lifted his head, gesturing toward the gatehouse. “Let’s get back to work—Xuewu’s busy too.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Got it!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Heh, I just put my cigarette down!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Old Seven grinned, accepted the cigarette Li Xuewu offered with both hands.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu pointed to the back-facing rooms. “If you need help, call them—they’re strong lads, don’t be shy.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Heh, go on, you’ve got plenty to do!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Old Seven waved him off, tucked the good cigarette behind his ear, picked up his saw, and got to work with renewed energy.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Once Li Xuewu left and the sound of his jeep faded away, Old Seven looked up, lips pressed tight, and said seriously to Elder Yi: “He really deserves to be a leader.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Qin Jie, aren’t you cold?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In the central courtyard, as Li Xuewu’s command vehicle vanished from sight, Yu Shui wrapped her scarf and stepped out of her home.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing Qin Huaiju washing clothes in the courtyard, she smiled and greeted her.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Qin Huaiju turned, smiled back. “Cold? It’s warm today.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She studied Yu Shui’s outfit and asked with a grin, “Where are you going? You’re dressed so nicely~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Nice? Don’t tease me~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shui pulled on her gloves, pushed her bicycle forward, and replied, “My classmates invited me out—there’s a new hair salon in Wangfujing, with stylists from Shanghai—they do modern cuts.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Auntie Qin, want to come with me?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“New Wind? Wasn’t that the old Silian?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Qin Huaiju shook her head with a smile. “Too expensive—I can’t afford it. I’ve got a whole family to feed.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Here, “Silian” referred to four upscale hair salons—Huaxin, Ziluolan, Yunshang, and Xiangming—that had relocated intact from Shanghai.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Qin Huaiju had heard of them but never gone—she couldn’t afford it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Men’s haircuts cost eighty fen; women’s perms and dye jobs cost two yuan and twenty fen—who could pay that?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At the Jiaodaokou salon, a haircut was only forty fen—she still felt guilty. Everyone in her family got their hair cut by her own scissors.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Now she could afford it, but her habits hadn’t changed—she saved wherever she could. Spending money like that was a waste.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She’d once followed trends and permed her hair—but not at a salon. She’d heated wire on the stove and curled it herself.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This is also a microcosm of life in the big courtyard—poverty means you have to pinch every penny to get by.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shui’s situation is different—he never earned much less before, and now he earns even more, and he’s single, so he can spend however he wants.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“It’s not that expensive anymore~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shui explained: “Now that things have changed, electric curling irons are banned—everyone just gets haircuts, same as at the gate: four mao.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Forget it, my hair isn’t long anyway.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Qin Huaiju smiled at her: “You’re a young woman—you should look pretty, and it’ll suit you better.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Oh~ Your body isn’t old yet, but your heart is already worn out~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shui teased her, called out, and pushed her cart out the door—she seemed in good spirits.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Qin Huaiju withdrew her envious gaze and went back to washing the clothes in the basin.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Splash~\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Jia Zhangshi poured a small basin of hot water into the laundry tub, then reached in to test the temperature with her fingers.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Why didn’t you say the water’s cold? Waiting till you’re old and your fingers ache like mine, is that it?!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Just these few pieces.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Qin Huaiju glanced at her and asked: “Aren’t you on duty at the gate today?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“The gatehouse window got broken by those brats last night—Old Man Yi and Old Qi are fixing it now.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Jia Zhangshi glanced toward the inner gate and said to Qin Huaiju: “If you want to go, go. Do you think we can’t afford your haircut?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I won’t go—it’s not long, it’s just a waste.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Qin Huaiju brushed aside the strands of hair near her ear and said while washing clothes: “Mom, let’s have baozi for dinner—thaw that piece of meat, and grab two radishes from the vegetable cellar.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Why all of a sudden want baozi?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Jia Zhangshi picked up the washed clothes Qin Huaiju had rinsed and dropped them into the tub, saying: “What’s the occasion?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“No occasion—it’s just that the kids have been nagging for days.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Qin Huaiju looked up at her mother-in-law and said: “Use plenty of meat filling—make it just how you like it.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“What difference does one more or one less bite make to me?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Jia Zhangshi was hanging up the clothes, feeling content inside, but said dismissively: “It’s not a holiday or festival—just eating enough is fine.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“One meal won’t hurt.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Qin Huaiju lowered her head, feeling the warmth of the water, her heart warm too.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Poor couples suffer in every matter; poor mother-in-law and daughter-in-law suffer even more.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In the old days of hardship, they watched each other warily, calculated every move, and life felt meaningless—filled only with tears.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Now that living conditions have improved, her mother-in-law has learned to tolerate her, even to care for her. Just thinking of the future, her throat tightened.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Life will get better—her family will live in an apartment building, and they’ll have a dignified life.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As Qin Huaiju was lost in thought, her mother-in-law suddenly asked softly: “Are you having trouble with him?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“What? Huh?~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Qin Huaiju was caught off guard, looked up, and laughed: “What are you talking about? Everything’s fine…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I won’t say it.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Jia Zhangshi pursed her lips, glanced at her, and said: “You’re foolish, but do you think I’m stupid? Trying to fool me?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She shook out the clothes in her hands and whispered: “Before, you used to make him clothes all the time—now, why are they all just household items?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“What?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Qin Huaiju glanced around—it was Sunday, the courtyard was lively, everyone busy, no one paying attention here.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She hurriedly helped her mother-in-law hang up all the clothes in the tub, leaned close, and whispered: “Why do you say everything?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I have to say it—otherwise we won’t even get to eat baozi!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Jia Zhangshi, across the clothesline, looked at Qin Huaiju: “I heard the commotion when he came back to the front courtyard—you didn’t even greet him. Are you cozy with him at work? Or are you hiding something from me?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Don’t say that—it’s so embarrassing~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Qin Huaiju glanced at her mother-in-law: “He’s an official now—can’t act like that anymore. It’s bad for him, bad for me.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Hmm, so according to you, all officials are good people~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Jia Zhangshi might be clueless in other matters, but on this, she was utterly clear-eyed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Is he tired of you? Or are you tired of him? Don’t tell me you’ve found someone else.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Mom~~~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Qin Huaiju stared at her mother-in-law, wondering why she was saying this today.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But Jia Zhangshi pressed on, nodding toward the room where Banggeng was, and said: “The kids are growing up—if you act foolishly, you’ll have trouble later.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Qin Huaiju watched her mother-in-law carry the tub toward the room, wanting to speak but unable to open her mouth.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>There was no problem or conflict between her and Li Xuewu—only distance, in space and status, had changed their relationship.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Before, Li Xuewu lived at home; they saw each other constantly, front and back courtyards, so it was easy.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Plus, back then he was only a deputy section chief—he needed her help at work, not just in bed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Now things changed—he no longer lived in the courtyard, they rarely saw each other, contact naturally dwindled.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even at work, she could help him less and less; he talked to her mostly about his own duties.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu visited the guesthouse less and less—especially now that the International Hotel exists; the factory’s official guests are all hosted there.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The growing distance in life and work made Qin Huaiju feel that being with him now was like taking more than her share.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She already had her current life, her current job—she needed to learn contentment.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even if, as her mother-in-law said, her son and daughter were growing up and would inevitably need Li Xuewu’s help someday.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>When they were starving, she could have thrown caution to the wind—but now she couldn’t.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He deserves someone better to accompany him, to enjoy a better life, to connect with people who help him—not to be tied down by her, constantly drained for benefits.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She wouldn’t be so arrogant as to think she’d given so much, helped him so much, that she owed him nothing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Precisely because she owed him so much, this was the moment she should make the best choice for him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She would listen to her mother-in-law’s words, think about them—but her life was her own. Just as she had chosen to be with Li Xuewu before, now she chose to leave him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Mutual liberation was the most dignified relationship.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The reason she first supported and hoped for the factory’s housing exchange policy wasn’t just for comfort or convenience.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Qin Huaiju glanced at the courtyard—she knew clearly: moving away meant severing their past; from now on, they’d be colleagues and friends.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She wanted him to be well.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“What are you doing?!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Luo Yun squinted from beside the gatehouse and asked Left Jie, who looked guilty: “Who are those two people at the gate?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“What two people?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Left Jie turned to look—by then, the people had passed the corner, so he turned back to explain.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But Luo Yun gave him no chance—she stepped forward, poked his chest, and demanded angrily: “What do you mean ‘old feelings’? What do you mean…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Attention!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Just as she was about to continue, she heard the guard at the gate shout “Attention!”—then the main gate opened, and the familiar jeep drove in.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu saw the two of them squabbling at the gate, braked sharply, rolled down his window, and asked: “What’s going on?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Brother Wu…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Left Jie had barely greeted him when Luo Yun blurted: “Brother Li, Left Jie’s being dishonest again—he’s fraternizing with bad elements!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Huh? What bad elements?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu raised an eyebrow at Luo Yun, then turned his gaze to Left Jie.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Left Jie looked at Li Xuewu helplessly, grimaced, then hesitantly explained: “It’s Dianzi and Chazi.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Who?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu didn’t recognize the names, glanced at Left Jie, and said: “Wait till I park.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He stepped on the gas and drove toward the parking spot, leaving Left Jie looking miserable and Luo Yun smug.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Don’t take advantage of my fondness for you to act however you want!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Left Jie blinked at Luo Yun and said: “My patience has limits!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“So what?!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Luo Yun wasn’t the least bit afraid of his threat—she stuck out her neck and stepped forward: “I’ll tell you—I haven’t even agreed to go out with you yet!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She mimicked Left Jie’s gesture, poking him: “Don’t think a little sunshine from me means you can shine brightly!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Come here~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu closed his window, tossed his car keys to Zhao Laosì, who ran over, and waved to the two of them like two squabbling roosters.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He didn’t even look to see if they followed—hands in his coat pockets, he walked toward the management office; he had work to do today.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Left Jie glared at Luo Yun, then reluctantly followed, lips pressed tight.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Luo Yun walked beside him like a victorious rooster, head high and proud.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Along the way, classmates and staff greeted them; he waved to Huang Ganjian, who called from the second-floor billiards room window, then led them into Yu Li’s office.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Li was busy, looked up in surprise at their entrance, then chuckled: “What happened? Did you two fight?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I won~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Luo Yun pushed past Left Jie, sat on the sofa, and sat back like a spectator waiting for him to get scolded.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Li smiled, stood up, tapped Luo Yun’s forehead, then picked up a teacup and went to the cabinet to brew tea.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu ignored them, walked behind the desk, sat down, removed his leather gloves, blew on his hands, then nodded toward the chair across from him, signaling Zuo Jie to sit.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>On his way over, he had already recalled who Zuo Jie meant by “point” and “fork.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Wei Guo sent them to find you?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“...Yeah, Wei Guo got into trouble.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After sitting down, Zuo Jie explained: “I didn’t contact them—they came looking for me.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Hmm, what do you mean?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu shifted some documents aside as Yu Li placed the teacup down, then lifted his eyes slightly to glance across.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zuo Jie pulled at the corner of his mouth and lowered his head: “They said Wei Guo got stabbed in the stomach and needs money for surgery.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Came to borrow money from you?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu kept reading the documents, half-listening.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Did you ask how they found their way here?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I asked. That’s the first thing I asked.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zuo Jie understood his meaning—he feared someone was pulling strings behind the scenes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He explained: “Point and Fork borrowed from everyone they knew, but it wasn’t enough, so they went to my house and asked my grandmother.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Brother Li, I didn’t tell them anything else.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zuo Jie glanced nervously at Li Xuewu and said: “When they asked for money, I... I thought of the past, so I lent them thirty.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Hmm.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu murmured, still reading, then asked after a while: “What about Wei Guo’s parents?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“They got caught up in it—because of Wei Min.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zuo Jie lowered his head, squeezing his hands: “His father was also found guilty of many things. Now he’s alone—his whole family’s been sealed off.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I don’t know the details. We lived in the same compound, but I stopped hanging out with them long ago.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Especially this time—Wei Guo sneaked back, acting even more domineering and violent than before. I didn’t dare get near him.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Lending money’s fine, but don’t let the fire burn you.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu looked up at him, tilting his head slightly: “In the Jianghu, helping in emergencies means you’re part of the Jianghu—and you’ll carry its burdens.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I’m not!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hearing this, Zuo Jie waved his hands anxiously: “I didn’t think much then. Wei Guo always took me around, spent money on me—I couldn’t just watch him die.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He added: “Lots of people are searching for him—it’s clearly a deep grudge, or else they wouldn’t have rushed to me for money.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Loyalty and righteousness? That’s normal.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu nodded: “I’m not blaming you—I’m warning you. He owes you a favor, and that won’t be easy to shake off.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I’m not taking the money back.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zuo Jie shook his head: “At the door, I already decided—I told them it wasn’t a loan, it was repayment—for all the money Wei Guo spent on me.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Hmm, fine. You gave it already.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu closed the file and warned: “Be careful going out these days.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then he gestured toward Luo Yun on the sofa: “You two are dating?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“That...”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zuo Jie lowered his head, embarrassed, unsure how to answer.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Luo Yun, who had been silent until now, stood up, stepped to the desk, and insisted: “Brother Li! No!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She glared at Zuo Jie: “Who’d want to date a fool like him?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“You just don’t get it!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zuo Jie shot back, facing her—right in front of Li Xuewu and Yu Li—he couldn’t back down now, not after always yielding to Luo Yun.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Luo Yun opened her mouth, but Yu Li put a hand on her shoulder.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Childhood friends, innocent affection, perfectly matched—how rare. Are you two really fighting over this?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Li glanced at Zuo Jie: “Don’t act on impulse, blinded by brotherly loyalty. Have you thought what happens when they come back for more?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Have you thought that tomorrow, someone else will come knocking, thinking you’re the guy standing at the compound gate with endless cash?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“That’s why he’s a fool!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Luo Yun snapped: “You’re generous, but they see it as charity—not gratitude. They don’t thank you; they resent your luck.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zuo Jie’s face flushed red and pale under their words—he now realized Wu Ge’s warning had been far gentler.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I understand. No next time.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Enough. It’s no big deal.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu tapped the desk with his pencil: “Avoid walking alone at night. Those two might have a whole trail behind them—kids these days don’t hold back.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Alright. I won’t go home—I’ll stay here.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zuo Jie realized now: he had no strength to protect himself—anything he did carried danger.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If Wu Ge had lent them the money today, would he still have to worry?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu tossed the file onto his desk: “You’re bored, aren’t you? Go help Director Wang.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Director Wang...”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zuo Jie picked up the file, flipped through it—and when he saw Wang Zheng’s name, he understood.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The file was submitted by Wang Zheng, detailing the use of assistance funds and visits to struggling families.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This large study campaign had sent down countless cadres—naturally, their small group couldn’t escape it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Earlier, Wang Xiaoqin proposed it; Li Xuewu volunteered; the whole group unanimously voted to form an Assistance Fund.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Recently, Wang Zheng has been handling it—funding those in hardship, whether living or financial.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zuo Jie had never heard of it before—he stared curiously at the file, unaware that Yu Li was quietly urging Luo Yun to leave, and they had already exited the office.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Brother Wu.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After studying it a long while, he looked up. When Li Xuewu finished one file and glanced over, Zuo Jie asked: “How do I help?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Follow Wang Zheng. Do whatever she tells you.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu glanced at him, then asked: “Your parents aren’t around, your siblings scattered—have you ever felt lonely?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Of course I have. Sometimes I talk to my grandma.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Now that no one else was here—especially not the girl he liked—he dropped his pretense.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Our family’s still better off. My parents didn’t do anything wrong—just couldn’t come back because of work. You haven’t seen the rest of the compound—how many families... sigh.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He sighed, lowering his head: “I don’t live at home not because I fear Wei Guo and his crew—but because I fear... the compound’s just too eerie.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“You’re actually quite sharp.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu set down his file and looked at him: “At first, you seemed careless. Later, I realized you’re a good kid.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Have you ever thought how many young people like you are out there?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing Zuo Jie look up, confused, Li Xuewu raised an eyebrow: “They’re like you—or like you said—families shattered overnight, life stripped of purpose or hope.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Some fight to save themselves—like Xiao Jianjun—seeking survival.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Others sink into decay—like Wei Guo—running wild, hiding, directionless.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“...Brother Wu.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zuo Jie seemed to understand—he looked at Li Xuewu and asked: “You want me to...”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Hmm. But slowly.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu leaned forward and tapped the file folder: “All these struggling families are club members. You know what that means?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I get it!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zuo Jie nodded seriously: “I understand your meaning—I’ll pay special attention to these people.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Good. This is the foundation I’m giving you. You must learn how to act.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu leaned back in his chair and said: “Stay in touch with Master Dou. He needs resources from you—and he can give you resources too.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Understood.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zuo Jie nodded: “Once I’ve made progress, I’ll report back to you.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Good.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu smiled and said: “If you like her, treat her well. Don’t be a chauvinist and bully her.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Thank you, Brother Wu.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zuo Jie smiled, lips pressed tight, then stood, waving the file: “I’ll go find Director Wang.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Hmm.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu murmured, lowering his head to continue reading.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The weather was truly fine—bright sun high in the sky, and the temperature had already climbed by noon.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The earlier snowfalls had left piles of gray-white in the corners, now glittering under the sun.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Li returned from the dining hall and met Huang Gan and others leaving the billiards room. She reminded them: “The private room’s ready—hurry over.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Where’s Li Xuewu?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Huang Gan looked around, glancing toward the management office: “Still working?! He’s got a work addiction!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I’ll go call him. You go ahead—the stove’s already lit.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Li gestured toward the dining hall and told O Xin: “Dishes are all on the table. If you need more, ask the kitchen—they’re all there.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Yes, Director Yu.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>O Xin nodded, glanced toward the management office, then followed Huang Gan and the others toward the dining hall.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At the management office, Li Xuewu still stared at the documents—some from Gangcheng, some from Jicheng, others from Gangcheng.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The newest file, also the thinnest, came from the frontier.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xiao Jianjun had not yet grown accustomed to writing reports, nor did he have any experience with such work; the text returned sounded like a personal letter.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But he’d clearly outlined the general situation—this kid had decent education, he just didn’t apply it properly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After he left the frontier, the others waited a few days before taking over that large compound.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As he’d expected, the place was empty—those frontier girls who danced there seemed like nothing more than a dream.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Now they still lived in the frontier office quarters of the rolling mill, borrowing vehicles from the office.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Their main task now was to contact several local forces already confirmed for cooperation and carry out the distribution assignments given by the office.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ding Wanqiu handled everything; unlike in Jicheng, this time he was in charge, and his actions grew swift and decisive.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xiao Jianjun, Zhao Laowu, and Da Chun were sent scurrying in all directions, each day brimming with endless work.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The report replied they were still in the learning phase; Station Chief Ding’s view was to take the first step well before moving forward, and to complete the distribution task before winter ended.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Director Xu Ning had arrived and treated them well—he, too, like them, was still familiarizing himself with the work…\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Dinner’s ready~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Li pushed open the door and entered the office; seeing Li Xuewu still busy, she called out.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu glanced at her, set down the documents, checked the time on his wrist, then said: “It’s already this late?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Isn’t it!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Li walked to the desk, gathered the documents Li Xuewu had reviewed and annotated, urging: “Hurry up—Director Huang and the others have already gone; he’s treating us tonight, in a private room.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“What’s the occasion?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu stood up with a smile. “Has he struck it rich?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“When hasn’t he struck it rich?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Li picked up the coat hanging on the chair and helped Li Xuewu put it on, saying: “Director Ma even said he’s flush with cash—his words practically spit out steel coins.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Heh, that’s true.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu chuckled. “A saying goes: don’t let a poor man suddenly become rich, or even the gods can’t control him!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Look at you~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Li adjusted his clothes, scolding: “He’s treating you to hotpot, and you’re still making fun of him.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Hmm, I’m not wronging him.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu stood straight, letting Yu Li fuss over him, saying: “This dinner’s a Hongmen Banquet—I’m sure the food’s good, but the man’s not.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Why?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Li paused, looking at him. “Do they have something planned?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Who knows~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu watched her finish, shrugged carelessly, and said: “Have you ever seen him voluntarily invite someone to dinner?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I was just thinking that~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Li smirked. “He showed up this morning and started ordering me to prepare food—said he wanted hotpot, hey!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“No problem~ Good fortune won’t harm you, and misfortune can’t be avoided—he’s like a piece of sticky candy.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As Li Xuewu walked out, he said: “He called me yesterday to invite me to dinner—I turned him down.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Be careful~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Li saw him to the door, warning: “He’s invested so much—who knows what he’s plotting?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>…\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Plotting what?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“What could I possibly plot against you?!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The courtyard directly opposite the parking lot was the restaurant; the side rooms of the courtyard served as private dining chambers.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Now steam rose from the private room, voices lively and loud, as hot as the stove in the center of the table.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>On the stove sat a large copper pot—far bigger than the ones at Donglaishun.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Its design differed too; this pot fully accommodated an entire table’s worth of ingredients for hotpot.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As soon as Li Xuewu entered, he called out Huang Gan’s name, asking if this generous gesture was truly a Hongmen Banquet.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Huang Gan, caught off guard, naturally denied it, protesting his innocence.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing this, Li Xuewu pressed further: “Since you say so, then today we talk only of romance and hotpot—anyone who mentions work is a puppy.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Hahaha!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ma Jun and the others laughed, especially Pei Pei, who helped Li Xuewu take off his coat and deliberately added: “Brother Huang already said upstairs he was going to scheme against you.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Look at this!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Huang Gan pointed at Pei Pei and addressed the group: “We’ve found the reason the revolution hasn’t succeeded yet—there’s a traitor in our ranks!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“You’re the traitor!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Pei Pei pouted, then hung Li Xuewu’s coat, saying: “I’m just a wise man who recognizes the times—abandoning darkness for the light, openly and honorably!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Eww~~~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Huang Gan sneered, glancing at her dismissively. “You’re misusing those words.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Ah~!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Pei Pei, annoyed, shoved him hard—but he took the opportunity to pull her into his arms and lift her clean off the ground.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Haha! Now you’re the one abandoning darkness for the light!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Huang Gan hoisted her onto his shoulder like a sack of grain, gave her a firm smack on the butt, and shouted: “Tell me—who are you with?!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Ahh!~~~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Huang Gan! I’m going to fight you!”\u003C\u002Fp>",5465,"2026-06-20T13:47:03.676Z",1,"Qwen3-Next 80B","6212a058d402af9dee8345f66c5411a9411d3b358ba9721040ec05d335fbb618","the-siheyuan-food-love-and-family-in-1960s-beiji-chapter-964","the-siheyuan-food-love-and-family-in-1960s-beiji-chapter-962",1000,"https:\u002F\u002Fnovelzhen.com\u002Fimages\u002Fcovers\u002Fthe-siheyuan-food-love-and-family-in-1960s-beiji-cover.jpg"]