[{"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-990":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},2315040,4526,"Chapter 990: His Legend Still Lives in the Jianghu","the-siheyuan-food-love-and-family-in-1960s-beiji-chapter-990",990,"\u003Cp>In the end, Yu Decai never waited for Li Xuewu to return; instead, Peng Xiaoli came upstairs and told him the boss had gone home for an errand.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>With no choice, the dismissal bell had already rung and songs were playing over the loudspeaker—he could only wait until morning to see Li Xuewu.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Is it something urgent?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He had just seen Peng Xiaoli hurry past the door but hadn’t had time to ask before the man went downstairs.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Now that he heard Li Xuewu had gone home and hadn’t gotten in the car, he brought it up.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Sometimes, a leader’s personal matters need to be understood with discretion—whether it’s a wedding or a funeral, they won’t invite you, but if you don’t show up, it becomes a problem.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Decai used to be the Section Chief of the Security Department and now serves as Deputy Group Leader of the Security Unit.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even when it’s the leader’s private affair, even if the secretary must keep quiet, trivial matters can still be mentioned in passing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In essence, Peng Xiaoli is merely an administrative clerk in the General Section, and Yu Decai is his superior.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>So when the man asked, he gave a simple explanation: “They say the eldest sister-in-law gave birth…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Gave birth?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Decai raised an eyebrow and smiled: “That’s good news—definitely should go.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Maybe there’s something else going on, who knows.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Peng Xiaoli caught the deputy group leader’s implication and volunteered to explain for the boss.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In truth, Deputy Group Leader Yu probably didn’t resent the boss for neglecting personal duties—he was more just defending him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But as a secretary, when discussing the leader’s private affairs, you still need to obscure things slightly, to make it easier for the leader to handle and explain later.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Leaving work a few minutes early isn’t a big deal; they just happened to be talking about it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After speaking, they both nodded and returned to their offices to pack up and leave.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu had originally planned to give Peng Xiaoli a ride, dropping him off on the way to the Chinese Medicine Hospital.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But Peng Xiaoli declined, saying he’d walk with Gu Cheng—he knew the boss was in a hurry and didn’t want to waste time.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Giving birth is urgent, but it’s not Li Xuewu giving birth; there are plenty of people at home preparing—what could possibly go wrong?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu was going to the hospital because only he and his elder brother were the men at home; their father was away, and brothers must stand by each other.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Don’t say wait until something happens or help is needed—don’t neglect your duties.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If giving birth isn’t an urgent matter, isn’t a big deal, then what is?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Work can always be done later, but missing family moments is a loss you can’t undo.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>So when Li Xuewu appeared in the delivery room corridor, his elder brother Xuewen couldn’t help rising from the wooden bench.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Around the delivery room door, several people waited, standing or sitting along the corridor.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shen Guodong, He Yuzhu, Old Seven She Yongwen, Old Nine Dai Yongxing, along with Brother Xuewen, Mother Liu Yin, and Ji Yuxiu.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Xuewu.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Brother Wu.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Second Brother.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>…\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As he drew near, everyone greeted him, their gazes shifting from the delivery room to him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“When did they bring her in?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After greeting everyone, Li Xuewu stood beside his mother and asked his elder brother and the others.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Brother Xuewen scratched his head—he wasn’t particularly panicked, yet now he couldn’t answer the question.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He either forgot the time or hadn’t even heard the question.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was Shen Guodong and He Yuzhu who quickly explained the situation.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liu Yin had now calmed down, clutching her hands as she told her son: “We were just about to make dinner when Yafang suddenly said her water broke—no pain, no fuss, you know how it is~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She exhaled deeply: “Thankfully we were prepared—Xuewen went to fetch Guodong and the others, I grabbed the birth kit I’d already packed, wrapped her in blankets, and carried her straight to the car.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Thank goodness everything went smoothly!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Watching his mother recount the tension, Li Xuewu gently patted her shoulder in comfort.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shen Guodong leaned against the wall, arms crossed, smiling: “When Xuewen shouted, I nearly jumped—I’d just finished my shift, and we got lucky.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I got luckier!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He Yuzhu chuckled: “Xuewen yelled at the courtyard gate—I’d just walked in, dropped my bag, and immediately lent a hand.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Ah, truly, many hands make light work.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liu Yin said gratefully: “If it were just me and the girls, we’d never have been able to carry Yafang.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Auntie, you’re being too polite.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He Yuzhu smiled: “Today I help Xuewen, tomorrow when Diliyah gives birth, he’ll help me.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Good, good.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Brother Xuewen, listening to everyone now, relaxed his nerves and finally smiled faintly, earnestly agreeing to He Yuzhu.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This made He Yuzhu embarrassed—he’d only said it to be polite to Auntie Liu.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even if help was needed, he could’ve called Shen Guodong or anyone from the back courtyard.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Asking a university professor to carry a pregnant woman—he truly felt uneasy giving such an order.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Especially since Brother Xuewen’s personality differed from Li Xuewu’s—when young, he was lively, but now he’d grown serious.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Unlike Li Xuewu, who was mischievous as a child and grew into a troublemaker, making casual chats with everyone feel effortless.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Now that Brother Xuewen spoke seriously, he truly meant it—he was acknowledging the favor, turning what was just neighborly help into something personal.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing his brother’s sincerity and He Yuzhu’s genuine intent, Li Xuewu stepped in to shift the topic before the mismatched pair grew awkward.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Did you notify the mountain?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He asked his brother: “Should we tell Father, or should I send a car to pick him up?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Notify him…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Brother Xuewen’s mind was still foggy—he couldn’t think clearly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu didn’t look at him again but turned to his mother: “How about we tell Father tonight and send a car to pick him up tomorrow?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Good, good, tomorrow’s better.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liu Yin had originally agreed to go up the mountain tonight, but after her son spoke, she realized it was already dark.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Going up at night was dangerous, and coming back would be just as dangerous.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even if they arrived, there was no urgent need for him to help—it was past midnight, what could he even see?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>So when Li Xuewu suggested sending a car tomorrow to pick up Li Shun, she readily nodded.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Turning to see Ji Yuxiu in her uniform, she smiled and asked: “Did you come straight from work?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“No~ I was at the gate.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ji Yuxiu smiled: “I’d just entered the alley when I heard my sister-in-law had given birth—I didn’t even go inside, just turned here.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She winked at her anxious brother: “Don’t worry—Director Zhao said everything’s prepared. There’s nothing to fear.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I know, I know.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Brother Xuewen muttered, his eyes fixed on the delivery room—he probably hadn’t even heard what Ji Yuxiu said.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ji Yuxiu gave him a helpless look, then smiled at Li Xuewu.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu understood, glanced at his brother, then waved to He Yuzhu, Shen Guodong, and the others, signaling them to step outside.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>From being carried from home to entering the delivery room—how little time had passed? Giving birth, especially a natural delivery, still takes a long while.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was clear Shen Guodong and the others had been worn out from the day and had just rushed over—how tiring.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After going downstairs and smoking a cigarette with them, he arranged for them to go home first.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even if they deserved thanks, it could wait—for the full moon, or the hundred-day celebration, when Brother Xuewen threw a banquet to toast them.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After seeing them off, he went back upstairs to Deputy Director Zhao Yufeng’s office.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As if Zhao Yufeng had known Li Xuewu would come—or perhaps the guard had called—he was still in his office after hours, waiting.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Comrade Li, come right in.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Yufeng was extremely courteous; seeing Li Xuewu at the door, he immediately rose from behind his desk and came forward to greet him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu also smiled and extended his hand, murmuring thanks.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Director Zhao, I truly appreciate it—just now my mother was still praising you.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Oh, family doesn’t need such formalities!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Yufeng waved his hand playfully, then smiled: “I was afraid staying there would pressure them, so I came back to my office to wait for news.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Saying this, he ushered Li Xuewu to sit on the sofa; a clever secretary promptly entered to brew tea.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Rest assured—whether or not your father’s involved, our relationship alone means I’d never neglect this.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I heard—you handled everything perfectly.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu accepted his help with a smile, took the tea the secretary offered, murmured thanks, then said to Zhao Yufeng: “Just now we were discussing at home—tomorrow we’ll go pick up Father.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Absolutely!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Yufeng tilted his head slightly in agreement: “Grandson’s born—this is a family joy, definitely.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“To be honest, winter on the mountain is brutal—sigh~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He sighed, shaking his head helplessly: “Fate plays tricks, circumstances force us.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“You’re mistaken—I didn’t come to complain!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu smiled: “Even if I did complain, I wouldn’t come to you—Zhao Xia’s still up there, suffering the same.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Young people, enduring hardship isn’t a bad thing.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Yufeng smiled at Li Xuewu: “If my Zhao Xia had even one-tenth your ability, I’d never force him to suffer.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But who can blame him for not having the ability?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After speaking, he sighed with the helplessness of someone who wants to hit his own child after seeing another’s—then shook his head.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu chuckled: “If you say that, my father will surely recount my youthful recklessness when he gets back.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Hahaha~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Yufeng clearly knew something—he laughed out loud but affirmed: “Rascal boy, rascal boy—no rascal, no good boy!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He took a sip of tea and smiled: “If Zhao Xia could achieve even half what you have, he wouldn’t still be stuck in college, clueless about the five grains.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He waved his hand dismissively: “I won’t even talk about him. Seeing you makes me angrier at him—just go sit on the mountain.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“You really shouldn’t say that!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu lifted his teacup and said: “I’ve heard from Lao San—Zhao Xia’s mind is sharp. He only needs to hear something once to remember it, while others need three times.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He praised him, sipped his hot tea, then teased: “Don’t wait till Zhao Xia finishes his internship—after three days, you’ll have to look at him with new eyes!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Haha! Then I’ll be blessed indeed!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Though Zhao Yufeng said nothing aloud, he was overjoyed inside—especially since it was Li Xuewu who praised his son.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In this world, men see only two kinds of goodness: someone else’s wife is good, and one’s own child is good.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even if your own child is worthless, you may criticize him—but if anyone else says a single word, you feel it’s too much.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu knew how to speak, and he was perceptive. When two such men sat together, they wouldn’t go straight for the jugular.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But Zhao Yufeng knew well: Li Xuewu was young, gifted, arrogant, a natural prodigy—with deep connections and outstanding ability.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At barely twenty, holding a high position, renowned far and wide—he’d seen few such youths, especially since the Liberation.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A youth this accomplished rarely flatters others. If he says your son is good, he is good; if he says your son isn’t, then he isn’t.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Come to think of it, I should thank your father.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Yufeng nodded seriously: “Every letter Zhao Xia writes mentions your father’s teachings—he gives everything he knows. A rare master.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Hey, I already told you that!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu smiled: “Zhao Xia’s mind is just sharp. My father loves such students—he teaches them with ease, unlike me.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He self-deprecatingly added: “When I was young, my father beat me with a sapling branch till my arms were red—but I still wouldn’t learn. Drove him crazy.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“That’s just how people are, that’s just how fate is!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Yufeng smiled at Li Xuewu: “The blessed don’t need to rush; the cursed run themselves to exhaustion. You were meant for this path.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“My father should’ve listened to you long ago! Haha~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu glanced at him, set down his teacup, and shook his head slightly: “Some things really can’t be predicted.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Look—this medical clinic on the mountain, how many people will thank you for your foresight!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Ah~ As long as you don’t scold me!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Yufeng gave a bitter laugh, then asked Li Xuewu: “I heard the steel mill has opened export channels—it’s doing well now, right?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Pure luck.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu knew what he was getting at and nodded: “At the Yangcheng Export Commodities Fair, our factory displayed small hardware and kitchen hardware—we met some foreign buyers.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“That’s still no small feat!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Yufeng affirmed: “Export fairs aren’t new—but few actually make real breakthroughs!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“It’s still too early to see major growth.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu nodded slightly: “Mainly to expand economic capacity and absorb some production surplus.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I see—I thought…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Yufeng glanced at Li Xuewu, left his sentence unfinished, and lowered his head to sip tea.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Silence fell. Zhao Yufeng said nothing. Li Xuewu didn’t know how to explain either.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But Li Xuewu broke it first: “Wufenghang intends to establish a food factory on the mainland—we’ve secured the contract.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Food industry?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Yufeng thought a moment, then asked: “Is it agro-product reprocessing, or processed food?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Both—it’s a broad category.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu paused, then explained: “Beverages will focus on baijiu; processed foods on canned goods; the multi-functional plant will handle agro-product reprocessing.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“That’s truly… an enormous plan.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Yufeng nodded, his gaze earnest, waiting for more.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu didn’t drag it out: “The food industry’s future must include pharmaceuticals—that’s the inevitable direction.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He smiled at Zhao Yufeng: “Otherwise, we wouldn’t be collaborating with the Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital to establish the mountain’s TCM research institute.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Hehe~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Yufeng chuckled and nodded, then mused: “I’d thought of this—but I didn’t expect it to be true.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Yes, but the timing isn’t ripe yet.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu said seriously: “Progress at the TCM research institute has been slow. Building the foundation inevitably takes time—there’s no way around it.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I understand. I know this field better than you.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Yufeng nodded in agreement: “An old TCM practitioner spends a lifetime studying one formula without fully mastering it—how much harder is it to research multiple directions?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Ah~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He sighed again: “Haste makes no hot tofu. We still have to wait.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Yes, probably.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu sipped tea, looked up, and said: “If we collaborate with universities or recruit specialized talent through channels, progress might accelerate.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I’ll find a way.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Yufeng frowned slightly: “We’ve considered this—but the situation… you know what I mean.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He pointed north: “The situation on the mountain isn’t easy. It’s at least a place to stand and survive—we dare not move lightly.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Mm, I understand.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu nodded: “Your caution is wise. You can’t just look at short-term gains.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I’m not being stubborn.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Yufeng smiled helplessly: “You probably don’t know the risks inside our system—I’m not asking for favors.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He spoke softly, seriously: “We’re struggling to find a reliable delivery team—even our hospital is stretched thin. Think about it.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Mm, I understand.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu nodded—he understood the meaning behind his words.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Outside Beijing, hospitals are one thing—but even within Beijing, for this period and far into the future, there are hospitals with no one qualified to deliver babies. Too many mothers have been driven to death by the delay.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Think of that writer who was a dentist—how absurd his life experience was.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Now imagine a middle schooler pulling your tooth with pliers—would you let them?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Yufeng said he wasn’t asking for favors, yet his words dripped with hardship and complaint.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu couldn’t ignore this debt—he gave Zhao Yufeng his word today: future export orders won’t forget the TCM Hospital.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Don’t mention his mother Liu Yin or his sister-in-law’s stubbornness—don’t say they refused to give birth at Gu Ning’s workplace, don’t say proximity matters.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It’s the same everywhere. If you’re entering through connections, and someone extends a hand, you must remember their favor.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu isn’t afraid of owing the military hospital; Gu Ning isn’t either—only they don’t know how to repay.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Since Zhao Yufeng took the initiative, giving birth here is more convenient.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>First, his mother and sister-in-law feel no psychological pressure; second, he knows how to repay this favor.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After all, his affairs and Zhao Yufeng’s affairs are interconnected—mutual support brings everything out.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Yufeng was confident—he wasn’t asking Li Xuewu for favors. He was tightening the bond.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>With Li Xuewu’s current background and ability, this boy would soar one day.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even if he never reached greater heights, the steel mill in Dongcheng held enormous power.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Besides, Li Xuewu held a position in the Garrison District and influence at the Branch Bureau.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even setting Li Xuewu aside, Li Shun’s sons weren’t ordinary men.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The eldest son and daughter-in-law seemed unremarkable—just schoolteachers.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But whether a university professor pursued research or political education, it was an extraordinary starting point.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>What rank was the president of Tsinghua? What post did a vice president hold upon leaving? That starting point was beyond ordinary reach.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even Li Xuecai, Zhao Yufeng’s son’s classmate—the least scheming of the Li family—still had real ability.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Shun had raised and trained them since childhood—he wasn’t lying when he said Zhao Xia was clever and Li Xuecai needed three tries to remember what Zhao Xia learned once.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Polite talk, joking is fine—but believe it, and you’re a fool.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The whole family was capable. He didn’t want to repay favors—he just wanted to connect.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hearing Li Shun’s youngest daughter was already working, and in a few years when Zhao Xia graduated, he’d propose marriage—sure to be a good match.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Others said Li Shun was simple and incapable—but to Zhao Yufeng, he had great wisdom.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At least in raising children, he was better than Zhao Yufeng.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The two men talked a while longer in the office, then decided it was time and walked downstairs together.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Yufeng, in his white coat, blended in beside Li Xuewu—though not to Liu Yin and the others.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Everyone in the hospital knew who Deputy Director Zhao was. As he walked with Li Xuewu toward the delivery room, the head of obstetrics waited at the door.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Director Zhao, it went smoothly.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Delivered?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Yufeng, seeing her outside, paused slightly, then asked: “Are all arrangements made?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I arranged it myself.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The head of the obstetrics department had just stepped out of the delivery room, her face unmistakably weary; Li Xuewu took the initiative to shake her hand and greet her warmly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Yufeng gave a brief introduction of the two, emphasizing Li Shun’s connection, but said nothing about Li Xuewu’s identity.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yet from Zhao’s attitude toward him and the way he addressed him, the head of obstetrics could sense something unusual.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A deputy department-level cadre this young? It was downright terrifying to hear!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Dr. Li had always been quiet at work, humble and unassuming in daily life—no one expected him to have such an accomplished son.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They already knew his eldest son and daughter-in-law were university professors; to hear his second son was this powerful was truly new.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu smiled again and thanked the woman, saying that when his father Li Shun returned, he would come personally to express his gratitude.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The head of obstetrics was sharp as a tack; as she led them toward the ward, she chuckled and said, “No need to thank me—just make sure you invite us to the full-moon banquet.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They say when you succeed, everyone around you smiles—this was truly true.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Since his promotion, Li Xuewu had rarely encountered anyone who dared to shout or act rudely toward him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even when he clashed with Yu Daru and others, none of them had uttered a single harsh word.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>So deputy department-level is truly the beginning of a political career—anything below it is a joke.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Inside the ward, his mother Liu Yin and Ji Yuxiu were busy; his elder brother crouched beside the bed, eyes fixed intently on the newborn wrapped in swaddling clothes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing Zhao Yufeng and the head of obstetrics enter, the attending physician and head nurse followed them in.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They knew this was a connection case, but hadn’t expected the ties to be this strong—not only had Zhao himself arranged the delivery and postpartum ward, he’d come personally to visit afterward.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This was truly… an uncommon situation.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Since the head of obstetrics had delivered Zhao Yafang herself, she naturally knew her condition; now standing beside the bed, she looked at the new mother and softly gave everyone a brief update.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After finishing, she received Zhao Yufeng’s nod of approval, then gave detailed nursing instructions to Liu Yin and Ji Yuxiu.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The head nurse took the lead in saying that someone was always on duty here, so there was no need to worry about postpartum care.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Though this was Li Shun’s workplace, the level of enthusiasm shown still left the family astonished and deeply moved.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewen’s eyes were glued to the child; now standing to greet Zhao Yufeng and the others, his gaze still drifted back to the baby.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu glanced at the child while they spoke—he was tiny, wrinkled, slightly dark, and his exposed head still had some stains on it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Yafang saw his gaze and smiled gently, nodding; Li Xuewu saw it and smiled back in response.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His sister-in-law was thanking him—no matter how strong the family connection, it wouldn’t normally prompt the director to personally care.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The only person in this family with any tie to the hospital was clearly the second younger brother.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But she was too exhausted to speak, so she could only smile.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu glanced at the child once, then listened as the head nurse finished; he didn’t thank anyone personally, but expressed gratitude on behalf of his father.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At that moment, Han Jiankun, who had been waiting outside, stepped in, carrying several paper bags.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu smiled and said, “I’ll thank you all properly when my father returns tomorrow—here, take these candies and cigarettes first, as a token of our family’s appreciation.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“No need to be so formal~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He took the pre-packed bags from Han Jiankun and handed them out to everyone in the room.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The head of obstetrics and head nurse naturally refused to take them, politely declining, but their eyes kept glancing at Zhao Yufeng.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Yufeng, hearing Li Xuewu’s sincere tone, took the bag himself and opened it—inside were indeed candies and cigarettes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The difference was, the candies weighed half a catty, the cigarettes two packs—but they were Zhonghua brand, truly impressive.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The gift wasn’t excessive, nor was it meager—it landed precisely on everyone’s threshold.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>No wonder Li’s second son had made a name for himself in Dongcheng—even Gu Haitao was willing to take him as a son-in-law; this alone proved he had real skill.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing Zhao Yufeng accept the gift, the head of obstetrics, the attending physician, and the head nurse all accepted theirs.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu instructed Han Jiankun to deliver the remaining gifts to the offices and ask the staff there to pass along his thanks for their hard work.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Just look at how he spoke, just look at how he acted!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>When they saw the man walk in with so many bags, they assumed he’d hand them out and be done with it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But no matter how many people were involved in the delivery, the gifts were always extra—and all were sent to the offices, with words of appreciation for their effort.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He gave them substance and face, while also fulfilling the earlier promise to have Li Shun come personally to thank them.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>No wonder he was a department head—those who reach this position are never mediocre.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Earlier, some had quietly thought Li Shun’s eldest son was a bit dull or socially inept.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They hadn’t expected any gift at all, let alone to receive such a prestigious token of thanks in front of leadership.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But the mother and child were safe and well, and it was your father’s workplace—surely a few kind words were acceptable.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>People are like this—even for duties they’re supposed to perform, they still crave an unexpected, comforting reward.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Now, everyone was polite, weighing the bags in their hands, and from Zhao’s faintly surprised expression, they knew this gift wasn’t “light.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After seeing everyone off, Li Xuewu didn’t re-enter the ward to disturb his sister-in-law.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing his mother and Ji Yuxiu tidying the ward, he told his elder brother and headed out.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ji Yuxiu couldn’t be assigned to nursing duty—she had to work; his mother alone wouldn’t suffice.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even adding his clumsy elder brother was useless—he didn’t cause trouble only because he never touched dishes or bowls at home.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>So after leaving the hospital, Li Xuewu told Han Jiankun to return to the compound first.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Coincidentally, as the command vehicle pulled up to the gate, they saw Li Xue hurrying out of the courtyard with a bag.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Second brother?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Mm. What are you doing?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu glanced at her with amusement—Li Xue hated the cold, and now her scarf covered her entire face, leaving only her eyes visible.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I just got back!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xue complained, “Deputy Director Jing is working overtime—the merger case needs a proposal ready for tomorrow’s meeting!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As she spoke, she shook the bag in her hand and asked, “Has Big Sister given birth? What did she have?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Heh, what did she have?!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu lightly tapped her forehead and teased, “She gave birth to Sun Wukong!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Oh no~ you’re teasing me again!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xue playfully swatted his hand away and asked curiously, “Is it a boy?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She was clever—she knew Sun Wukong was male, so she’d already guessed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu nodded with a smile. “You have a nephew now.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Really?!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xue’s face lit up with excitement; she couldn’t stand still, babbling about heading straight to the hospital.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“It’s pitch black out!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu grabbed her scarf and scolded, “Didn’t I tell you never to walk alone at night? Do you have no memory?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He opened the car door and gestured for her to get in.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Only then did Li Xue realize her second brother was sending her with a driver.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“It’s not far—just around the corner…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She tried to explain, but seeing her brother’s serious gaze, she swallowed the rest of her words.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>No one was allowed to walk at night—not just her, but all the women in the family, even the men.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even the kids at the recycling station knew they had to be home before dark.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>These days, even in the city wasn’t safe—if someone got killed and dumped in a ditch, it could take weeks before anyone noticed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The capital didn’t have twenty million people yet, let alone crowded streets.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>People always talked about murders here and there, girls being assaulted—it was all so unsettling.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ji Yuxiu commuted by bicycle—their office’s “iron donkey”—sometimes someone picked her up, sometimes she rode, but she always carried a pistol on her waist.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This stretch of Nanluoguxiang was a no-go zone for toughs and young hoodlums alike.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Everyone knew how dangerous it was—last year, several people had lost their heads over various incidents.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu’s name might be unknown to new toughs, but the old hands had warned them: Li Er Bala kills without remorse.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Don’t ask who Li Er Bala is—just see a tall, broad-shouldered man with a big scar on his face, and don’t provoke him—watch out for a bullet.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Truly, Li Xuewu was no longer in the underworld, but legends of him still lived on.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He told Han Jiankun to take Li Xue, then stepped through the courtyard gate.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Winter days were short, but quitting time remained unchanged, so meals in the compound were still punctual.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>By the time he returned, dinner was long over, and the gatekeeper was already on duty.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They might have been playing cards, but Li Xuewu had been talking at the gate for a while—now that he entered, the whole room stared at him in silence, no cards, no noise.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They hadn’t expected him back so late; if he hadn’t blocked the gate, they’d have fled already.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu didn’t care about gambling, but these kids were terrified of him—especially at night, when Bala’s eyes fixed on them, their bodies trembled.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Watching eight or nine boys sitting silently in the room, Li Xuewu found it amusing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He glanced at them, then walked straight into the compound—the back rooms were lit, and the boys were reading.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He didn’t go to the west room, but passed through the ornate gate and glanced toward his own house.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He saw his grandmother sitting alone on the kang, smoking her pipe, so he entered.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Why are you back?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Just came from the hospital.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu smiled, touched the head of the kang, and sat beside the edge.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Did you have dinner?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Don’t worry about it; you ate with the back-room folks.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The old lady smiled, sizing up Li Xuewu, and asked, “How are Ya Fang and the others?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Good! Doing great~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu smiled and said, “Congratulations! You’ve got a great-grandson!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Hahaha~ Wonderful!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The old lady had been visibly tense, her fingers gripping the tobacco pipe, but now she loosened them and smiled.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu got up, poured her a cup of hot water, placed it on the kang, and warned, “Winter air is dry; smoking makes your throat cough. Drink more water.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Mm, I know.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The old lady beamed at her grandson. “In a few days, you’ll be a father too. My joy is double now.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“You’re right.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu nodded with a smile. “You’ll have your hands full then—kids all over the kang, too many to keep track of.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“That’s perfect!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The old lady laughed. “A flourishing family, new lives added—that’s a great blessing. I won’t be annoyed; I’ll laugh!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Wait till then—you’re just putting on a tough face now.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu teased her for a moment, then explained: “I ran into Li Xue on her way out—I had the car take her to the hospital.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Mm, mm, I know.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The old lady nodded. “She told me. It’s not far, but I was still worried—I was just thinking about her.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“No matter how close, don’t travel at night.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu emphasized, then added: “Your daughter-in-law will need to stay in the hospital for a few days. Yu Xiu and Li Xue have to work. My mother can’t manage alone—we need someone to help.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“What about Xuewen?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The old lady paused, then understood—Li Xuewu meant outsiders like Qin Jingru, not family.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Whether it was Yu Li or Qin Jingru, the old lady had long grown accustomed to her grandson’s lifestyle and character.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He didn’t stint when spending was needed, wasn’t stingy when generosity called for it, handled people well, and managed affairs with order. Her second grandson thought things through thoroughly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But asking for help for just a few days—should it be money? Goods? Too much or too little would be awkward.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She hesitated, then asked, “Why not me? I’ll go—I don’t want to trouble anyone.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Don’t you dare worry about money—I worry about you!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu smiled, pressing his hand over hers. “Just a few days. My mother alone can’t hold up—not with the baby too.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Are you thinking of someone from the courtyard?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The old lady was sharp—she understood his meaning the moment he finished speaking.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Asking for help now carried the faint whiff of bourgeois indulgence; most families wouldn’t risk it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>You might think the old lady never left home, but she knew plenty.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu didn’t hide it. He pointed to the back courtyard. “I wanted to ask Aunt Da, but I’m afraid no one’s left to care for the house. So I thought of asking Qin Huaiju’s mother-in-law. I’ll go ask her first.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The old lady tilted her head slightly and nodded. “That’s the idea. If you want peace of mind and control, only she’ll do.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Don’t mention giving anything.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu gently patted her hand. “I’ll say you told me to ask her—that’s enough to save face.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Give her ten yuan. That covers everything—she helps until discharge, spares my mother the exhaustion, and still has time to cook, nourish your daughter-in-law, and you’ll rest easy, won’t you?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Mm, mm—say it was me who asked her to help.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The old lady nodded. “She’s sharp-tongued, but her heart’s good. She’s capable, and we live in the same courtyard. Go.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Alright, I’ll go ask first.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu stood up, saying as he headed for the door: “I’ll come back and tell you if there’s news.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As he stepped outside, he greeted people in the courtyard, explaining Zhao Yafang’s condition and the joyous news that the Li family now had a firstborn son.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Passing through the second gate, he noticed Jia family’s light on, walked over, and called out just before the door: “Aunt Qin, you home?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Coming!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Qin Huaiju recognized Li Xuewu’s voice, saw his shadow through the window, and quickly pulled back the curtain to open the door.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Oh! What brings you here? Has Ya Fang given birth yet? I heard the news when I got back.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her tongue moved fast—like a machine gun firing questions—and she kept talking as Li Xuewu stepped inside.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bang Geng and the other two were doing homework at the table; they looked up in surprise and greeted him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu smiled and greeted Jia Zhangshi as she came out from the inner room, then pinched Bang Geng’s chubby cheek and responded to all three children’s greetings.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Don’t bother—I’m not thirsty.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing Qin Huaiju about to pour him water, he waved her off, then sat down at the table as Bang Geng urged him to.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I just got back from the hospital—mother and baby are safe and sound.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“What wonderful news!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Qin Huaiju smiled. “I always said Ya Fang’s belly was big—how’s the baby? How many jin?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I haven’t even had time to ask yet.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Xuewu smiled, glancing at Jia Zhangshi standing nearby. “It’s been chaotic—I’ve never been through this before, and my brother wasn’t prepared.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He meant that Brother Xuewen hadn’t brought his mother-in-law over—but really, bringing her over would’ve disrupted her own family.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This was just preamble. He cut straight to the point: “The old lady told me to ask you, Aunt Zhang, to come help out.”\u003C\u002Fp>",5746,"2026-06-20T13:47:03.676Z",1,"Qwen3-Next 80B","afb92a44c8f6aed9ceb871d615a3d8578818212ec124c12905c585df691517fe","the-siheyuan-food-love-and-family-in-1960s-beiji-chapter-991","the-siheyuan-food-love-and-family-in-1960s-beiji-chapter-989",1000,"https:\u002F\u002Fnovelzhen.com\u002Fimages\u002Fcovers\u002Fthe-siheyuan-food-love-and-family-in-1960s-beiji-cover.jpg"]