In the fiery red era of the heavens, refrigerators are refreshed daily.

Chapter 200, page 199. Shanghai 100. First time meeting family. Happy shopping. Second brother asks questions.
Early Sunday morning, a different atmosphere than usual permeated the Shikumen (stone gate) neighborhood.

Before dawn, there were already rustling sounds in the alleyway, the sounds of neighbors getting up early to empty chamber pots and light coal stoves.

Zhang Xiuying got up earlier than usual, and the aroma of rice porridge was already wafting from the kitchen.

The leftover rice from last night was poured into a pot, water was added, and it was heated on the coal stove; that made breakfast for the whole family.

She then scooped out a few pickled cucumbers she had made herself from the pickle jar, cut them into thin pieces, drizzled a few drops of sesame oil on them, and made them a crisp, salty side dish that was perfect with rice.

Today, Yang Guangyao is going out shopping and meeting up with his younger brother's classmate, so he has clearly dressed up carefully.

He changed into a faded but clean blue short-sleeved shirt, and carefully combed his hair with water. The wet hair clung to his forehead, making him look even more energetic and neat.

He sat at the octagonal table, sipping his piping hot porridge, a hint of barely perceptible anticipation in his eyes. Every now and then, he would glance out the window at the sky, as if assessing whether the weather would be as fine as the forecast had predicted.

Yang Guangming ate quickly, finishing his porridge in a few bites, picking up two pieces of pickled cucumber with his chopsticks, and then putting down his bowl and chopsticks. He was wearing a slightly worn gray short-sleeved shirt today, making him look calm and capable.

"Mom, my second brother and I are going out today," Yang Guangming said to his mother, who was still busy. "We're mainly going to Shanghai No. 1 Department Store to shop around and maybe buy a couple of outfits. We won't be back for lunch, so you and Dad don't need to wait for us."

Zhang Xiuying turned around, wiped her hands on her apron, a kind smile on her face, and glanced at her two sons.

Her youngest son is always reliable, and her second son seems to have something on his mind lately; his complexion and spirits have improved considerably, which comforts her.

"Okay, good. It's good to go out for a walk. Yaoyao should get some new clothes too. Mingming, did you bring enough money and ration coupons?" She reminded him, used to being frugal.

"Don't worry, Mom, I've got it all." Yang Guangming patted his shirt pocket, which was bulging with cloth coupons, industrial vouchers, and a small stack of his saved banknotes and loose change.

Yang Guangyao lowered his head somewhat embarrassedly, unconsciously stirring the little remaining porridge in his bowl with his chopsticks, and muttered, "Mingming has spent money again..."

He knew that although his younger brother's salary was higher than his, he usually helped the family and saved money on his own expenses, so it wasn't easy for him to save any money.

“We’re brothers, why are you saying all this?” Yang Guangming interrupted him, his tone light. “Let’s go after we’ve eaten. Go early, the department store is crowded, and if we go late, all the nice things will be taken.”

The two brothers went out together.

The alleyway was fully awake in the early morning. Neighbors carried spittoons and chamber pots in and out, greeting each other, their voices echoing in the small space.

Several women were gathered around the tap, washing up and chatting about everyday things, with the sound of running water.

Yang Guangming pushed out the spotless Forever 28 bicycle, and Yang Guangyao skillfully sat on the back seat.

The bicycle bell rang out a series of crisp sounds as it passed through the gradually bustling alleyways filled with coal smoke and the aroma of breakfast, merging into the flow of people on the streets of Shanghai on a Sunday morning.

Yang Guangming was a very skilled cyclist; even with a passenger on his back, he rode smoothly and quickly, skillfully avoiding pedestrians and the occasional passing tram.

A gentle breeze brushed against the brothers' faces, carrying the refreshing scent unique to an early summer morning, as well as the aroma of fried dough sticks from a roadside breakfast stall.

After riding for about twenty minutes, the magnificent Soviet-style building of the Shanghai No. 1 Department Store came into view.

In an era of relative scarcity, this massive building standing on Nanjing Road was a shopping paradise in the hearts of countless Shanghainese, representing prosperity and hope.

The department store entrance was already crowded with people on the weekend.

A long queue formed at the bicycle parking area, which was packed with all kinds of bicycles, and the old man watching over the bicycles was very busy.

After parking the car, Yang Ming and his second brother walked to a tall Roman column at the entrance and found a conspicuous spot to wait.

"They should be here soon." Yang Guangming glanced at his watch and looked in the direction the bus was coming from.

Yang Guangyao nodded, his hands unconsciously adjusting the already neat hem and collar of his clothes, then touching his combed hair, appearing somewhat restrained.

This was the first time he had ever prepared an outfit for his wedding, and he was also going to meet his brother's friends, who were not ordinary people, to participate in such an event. He was filled with anticipation but also a little bit of nervousness.

The people coming and going at the department store seemed to be dressed more smartly than their neighbors in the factory and alley, which made him pay more attention to his own image.

After waiting for about fifteen minutes, Yang Guangming's eyes lit up, and he waved to the other side of the road.

"coming."

Across the street, a dark green bus came to a stop with a hiss, the doors opened, and Xie Feiyang jumped off first.

Today he wore a brand new white polyester shirt with the sleeves rolled up to his elbows, and crisp military green trousers with perfectly pressed creases. His hair was neatly combed, shiny and smooth, making him look exceptionally energetic.

He turned around and carefully helped Feng Xianghong out of the car.

Lin Jianyue followed closely behind and jumped out of the car.

Feng Xianghong, wearing a light green polyester short-sleeved shirt with the collar turned up, smiled brightly. As soon as she got out of the car, she saw the Yangguangming brothers under the Roman columns, waved vigorously, and called out in a clear voice as she crossed the road: "Yangguangming!"

Lin Jianyue followed behind her, wearing a light blue floral shirt today. The fabric looked like fine cotton, soft and comfortable.

Two jet-black, glossy braids still hung down her chest, the ends tied with small, transparent glass thread flowers that reflected slightly in the sunlight.

Her face had a light, natural blush. When her eyes met the bright sunlight, they lit up slightly, like stars streaking across the sky, before quickly falling back down. She had a touch of the shyness and quietness unique to girls of this era, but there was a faint smile on her lips.

The three carefully avoided bicycles and pedestrians as they crossed the road.

"Guangming! Have you been waiting long?" Xie Feiyang greeted him with a smile, his voice loud and clear, full of his unique enthusiasm.

He glanced at Yang Guangming and saw Yang Guangyao next to him, paused for a moment, then looked at him with a questioning gaze, but quickly turned it into a friendly smile.

"This is my second brother, Yang Guangyao," Yang Guangming introduced naturally. "Second brother, these three are my classmates and good friends, Xie Feiyang, Feng Xianghong, and Lin Jianyue."

His introduction was general and ordinary, without specifically mentioning Lin Jianyue's identity, but the exchange of glances between them revealed an unusual familiarity.

"Hello, hello."

Yang Guangyao quickly stepped forward, a sincere smile on his face, and greeted everyone warmly.

He hadn't expected his younger brother's classmates to be so smart, beautiful, and elegant, especially the girl named Lin Jianyue, who stood there quietly like a fresh orchid, gentle and refined, clearly a well-mannered girl from a good family.

"Brother Guangyao, hello! I often hear Guangming mention you!" Xie Feiyang warmly extended his hand and shook hands firmly with Guangyao.

Feng Xianghong greeted him with a smile, "Brother Guangyao, hello. We'd appreciate it if you could accompany us shopping today."

Lin Jianyue raised her eyes, glanced quickly at Yang Guangyao, and said in a soft, gentle voice with a Jiangnan accent, "Hello, Brother Guangyao."

Her gaze lingered briefly on Yang Guangming's face, as if seeking more confirmation and reassurance from him. The blush on her cheeks deepened, like a touch of rouge.

As Yang Guangyao turned to look at the department store's imposing entrance and the constant flow of people, Feng Xianghong quickly leaned close to Lin Jianyue's ear and whispered teasingly:

"Jianyue, is he the second brother that Guangming often mentions? He's quite handsome! Are you nervous meeting your girlfriend's family for the first time?"

As she spoke, she winked mischievously.

Lin Jianyue's ears turned bright red instantly. She secretly pinched Feng Xianghong's arm to signal her not to talk nonsense, but her eyes involuntarily drifted towards Yang Guangming, with a hint of coquettishness and pleading.

Yang Guangming seemed oblivious to their subtle interaction and addressed everyone with a normal expression:

"Everyone's here, let's go in. Today I'm mainly here to accompany Xiang Hong and Jian Yue to look at summer clothes, and I'll also buy some things for my family."

His tone was calm and natural, as if it were just an ordinary shopping trip between friends, which effectively diffused the slight awkwardness that his girlfriend felt when she first met his family.

Xie Feiyang immediately chimed in, his voice loud and inflammatory: "Yes, yes, yes! Let's go shopping! Our goal today is clear: to use up all the precious cloth coupons and industrial vouchers we have! Supporting national construction starts with improving our own lives!"

His words drew sidelong glances from several passersby, but he didn't care and laughed heartily.

The group followed the massive flow of people into the department store.

Upon entering, a wave of noise and heat hits you.

On weekends, department stores are packed with people, with crowds gathered in front of every counter. The sounds of salespeople responding, customers asking questions, and children crying all blend together, creating a lively atmosphere.

The air was filled with the sweet aroma of candy and pastries, the fragrance of face cream, and the faint smell of sweat from the crowd, creating a lively atmosphere unique to this era of a large shopping mall.

As soon as Feng Xianghong and Lin Jianyue entered the room, their eyes were immediately drawn to the dazzling array of goods, especially the various summer clothes hanging at the clothing counter in the distance. Although the colors were still mainly blue, gray, green, and white, they were still very tempting to the young girls who longed for beauty.

"Let's go, let's go take a look over there first!" Feng Xianghong was an impatient person. She grabbed Lin Jianyue's hand and took the lead, squeezing towards the clothing counter with the most people.

Xie Feiyang smiled and shook his head, then gestured for Yang Guangming to follow, and quickly followed after him, like a protector of a flower.

Yang Guangming gave his second brother a wink, and the two of them followed closely behind, trying their best to make a way through the crowd.

Yang Guangming would occasionally use his arm to gently shield Lin Jianyue from being bumped by the crowd. This subtle gesture, done naturally and without artifice, warmed Lin Jianyue's heart, and she lowered her head and smiled.

The clothing counter is one of the busiest places in the store, surrounded by layers of people.

The clothes hanging on the shelves and stacked under the glass counter are mostly shirts and trousers made of Dacron and khaki fabrics. The styles are relatively simple, but for people who need to buy clothes with coupons and can't buy more than a few new clothes a year, each one is worth careful selection.

Feng Xianghong and Lin Jianyue squeezed on the outer edge of the crowd, standing on tiptoe, pointing at a few short-sleeved shirts hanging inside and discussing them in low voices with excitement.

"Jianyue, look at that white one, with a small square collar and two thin stripes on the cuffs, isn't it pretty?"

"Hmm... the light blue one next to it, with ruffled trim on the collar, is quite unique... the fabric seems a bit softer."

Sunlight protected his second brother as they slowly squeezed to their side. He was tall, and his gaze could reach clearly through the crowd, allowing him to see what was happening behind the counter.

"Which one do you like? You can ask the salesperson to bring it out so you can take a closer look and try it on." Yang Guangming's voice was clear and calm in the noisy environment, giving people a sense of reassurance.

The saleswoman behind the counter was a middle-aged woman in her forties, wearing arm sleeves and with a somewhat serious expression. She was busy taking out goods and answering questions, but when she saw Yang Guangming and the other young men who all had good looks and demeanor, she couldn't help but speak more politely.

"Comrade, could you please show us that white square-collar dress and that light blue dress with a lace collar?" Feng Xianghong quickly pointed inside and said.

The saleswoman hesitated for a moment; most people didn't receive this treatment, and she didn't have the patience for it.

Her gaze swept over the group again, but she ultimately did not refuse. She skillfully took down the clothes with the clothesline and handed them over across the counter.

Feng Xianghong took the white dress first, held it up against herself, and then handed it to Lin Jianyue: "Jianyue, you have fair skin, white will definitely look good on you, try this one on."

Lin Jianyue took the clothes, looked around at the noisy and crowded environment where there was almost no room to turn around, and frowned slightly.

Yang Guangming pointed to the full-length mirror next to the counter: "Isn't there a mirror here? You can stand in front of it and try it out to see how it looks."

Feng Xianghong immediately pulled Lin Jianyue over.

Yang Guangming naturally took the small, faded cloth handbag from Lin Jianyue's hand and carried it for her, his movements smooth and considerate.

This subtle movement caught the eye of Yang Guangyao, who was following behind. His gaze flickered slightly, and he seemed to understand something, but he remained expressionless and just watched silently.

Lin Jianyue held herself up in front of the mirror. The white shirt accentuated her long neck and made her skin appear even whiter and more translucent, giving her a fresh and neat look. Feng Xianghong, standing beside her, repeatedly praised her.

She tried on the light blue dress again; the lace collar made her look even more delicate and quiet, adding a touch of femininity.

"They both look good! Oh dear, I'm having trouble choosing!" Feng Xianghong looked at her friend in the mirror, finding it difficult to decide.

Yang Guangming glanced at them, his gaze gentle, and offered a fair assessment: "The white one is more refreshing and neat, suitable for work. The blue one is more elegant and quiet, also great for everyday wear. Both outfits are beautiful."

His tone was calm, as if he were stating an objective fact, but the words "all good-looking" still made Lin Jianyue's ears burn slightly.

Lin Jianyue lowered her head, her fingers stroking the fabric of the dress, and said softly to Feng Xianghong, "How about... we go with the white one? I prefer this one."

Actually, she felt that Yang Guangming seemed to prefer the clean and crisp feel of white, which led to her decision.

“Okay! I’ll take the white one!” Feng Xianghong decided readily, and then asked the sales clerk to bring her a white checkered top in her own size, as she also needed to buy some new clothes.

It was Yang Guangming's turn to pick out clothes for his second brother.

He had a clear goal and said directly to the sales clerk, "Comrade, could you please give me that white polyester short-sleeved shirt, yes, the large size?"

As he requested, the salesperson brought over the shirt.

The white polyester shirt was crisp and brand new, looking very good, but it was also very expensive.

Clothes made of cool fabric, though not absorbent, are sturdy and durable, making them very popular these days.

Yang Guangyao panicked immediately, waving his hands hastily, his face flushed with embarrassment: "Mingming, this...this is too extravagant! A cotton shirt will suffice..."

"When meeting the parents, first impressions are very important. You need to look presentable from head to toe to show respect." Yang Guangming's tone left no room for argument. He picked up the shirt and compared it to his second brother's shoulder width and sleeve length. "Hmm, the size is about right. This one will do."

Yang Guangyao couldn't persuade his younger brother, and he knew that his brother was right, but he still felt bad about it.

Yang Guangming said directly to the sales clerk, "Comrade, I'll take this shirt. Also, could you please tear off that piece of navy blue fabric?" He pointed to the thick fabric rolled up in the counter and handed over the fabric ration coupons and clothing ration coupons in his hand.

"Buying so much cloth?" Yang Guangyao exclaimed in surprise again when he saw the thick stack of cloth coupons.

"I'll make you a pair of pants to match your new shirt. The rest should be enough to make a pair of pants for Mom and Dad and Zhuangzhuang each."

Ready-made clothes and trousers are expensive. It's more cost-effective to buy fabric and have them made by a tailor, and we can save some fabric coupons." Yang Guangming calculated carefully, considering everything thoroughly. Xie Feiyang watched from the side and laughed, "Guangming, you're a truly excellent younger brother, you've thought of everything so thoroughly!" His tone was full of sincere admiration.

Feng Xianghong also bought her plaid shirt, while Lin Jianyue bought the white short-sleeved shirt. The two girls, holding their new clothes, wore satisfied smiles, as if they had received precious treasures.

After buying clothes, fabric, and leather shoes, Yang Guangming had used up most of his fabric coupons and industrial vouchers.

The group then strolled to the pastry and candy counter, where the aroma was the strongest.

The sweet aromas here are even more enticing; the glass display case is filled with peach shortbread, almond cookies, animal-shaped biscuits, White Rabbit milk candy, peanut nougat...

Although the variety was far less than in later generations, it was a great temptation in an era of relative scarcity, especially for children and young people.

The counter was crowded with people carrying candy coupons and snack coupons, and everyone's eyes were filled with longing.

Yang Guangming, Feng Xianghong, and Lin Jianyue took out some of their saved pastry and candy coupons and got together to discuss what to buy.

"Peach shortbread is good; it keeps well and doesn't break easily. Why don't you buy some?" Yang Guangming suggested.

"Milk candy! White Rabbit milk candy is the best! It's so fragrant and sweet! And the candy coupons are the most precious..." Feng Xianghong's eyes were fixed on the candy wrapper printed with White Rabbit.

"Let's also buy half a pound of peanut nougat. It's fragrant, crispy, and delicious. My dad used to love buying this the most," Lin Jianyue added softly.

Finally, they discussed it and decided to buy two packs of peach shortbread, half a pound of White Rabbit milk candy, and half a pound of peanut nougat.

The salesperson skillfully wrapped the peach shortbread in coarse yellow paper, weighed the candy in a kraft paper bag, and then quickly tied it tightly with a sturdy thin paper rope before handing it out.

The tickets in their hands were almost all used up, but the joy of the harvest and the satisfaction of carrying a full load of goods were evident on everyone's faces.

Holding the box containing the new shirt and new leather shoes, Yang Guangyao felt like he was dreaming, and his gratitude towards his younger brother deepened even further.

"Alright, the initial shopping task is complete!" Xie Feiyang clapped his hands. Although he didn't buy anything, seeing everyone happy made him happy too, as if he had enjoyed the pleasure of shopping.

However, Feng Xianghong and Lin Jianyue were still somewhat unsatisfied, their eyes lingering among the dazzling array of goods on the counters.

“It’s still early, shall we look around some more? Even if we don’t buy anything, it’ll be fun to look around,” Feng Xianghong suggested, her eyes sparkling as she scanned the entire mall, showing great interest in everything from the enamelware counter to the stationery counter.

Lin Jianyue nodded slightly in agreement. Her gaze lingered curiously on the goods, from enamel basins and bamboo-shelled thermos flasks printed with the Double Happiness logo to Hero brand fountain pens and colorful plastic notebooks. Everything seemed new and interesting to her.

This pure, youthful enthusiasm for shopping is particularly prominent and fervent in this era.

Yang Guangming smiled and readily agreed: "Okay, let's wander around a bit more and digest our food. Second brother, let's look at other things too, maybe we need to buy something for the house."

He knew that girls liked shopping malls, and although he was a little reluctant, since they were already there, he didn't want to spoil the fun.

So the two women walked ahead, browsing from one counter to another with great interest, occasionally pointing at a certain item and whispering to each other, their clear laughter ringing out.

Three men followed behind. Xie Feiyang occasionally cracked jokes and commented on the products, making everyone laugh. Yang Guangyao was more composed, occasionally introducing products to his younger brother, such as which thermos flasks were of good quality, and which soaps were strong in cleaning but not too harsh on the hands. Yang Guangming listened attentively, but he wasn't interested in these everyday facts at all.

Yang Guangyao looked at the bustling, dazzling shopping mall and at the energetic and vibrant young people around him.
The nervousness and inferiority he felt about meeting his future in-laws seemed to have been somewhat alleviated by the lively and warm atmosphere, and his face showed the most relaxed and genuine smile he had seen in days.

He thought to himself, "Maybe this is what a good life is like, something you earn little by little through hard work."

He also noticed the subtle, low-key yet undeniable tacit understanding between his younger brother and that Comrade Lin Jianyue—Yang Guangming would always inadvertently shield Lin Jianyue from the crowds, and Lin Jianyue would subconsciously look at Yang Guangming first when she saw something interesting.

He had been paying attention and noticed that his younger brother's gaze would always fall on Lin Jianyue unintentionally and gently, with a deep concern and care.

Although Lin Jianyue spent most of her time with Feng Xianghong, admiring the merchandise, she would occasionally turn around and quickly glance at Yang Guangming, her eyes filled with dependence, shyness, and joy.

The moment their eyes met, even without a word, a tenderness flowed between them that was difficult for others to penetrate. Lin Jianyue would often turn her head away quickly like a startled deer, but her flushed ears would quietly betray her feelings.

This subtle and natural flow of emotions was all too familiar to Yang Guangyao, who was in the throes of new love and experiencing both sweetness and trepidation.

He understood immediately. He was happy for his brother, but he couldn't help but think of his own Yue Xinlei and his brother's encouragement. A warm feeling and courage welled up in his heart.

They wandered aimlessly from the first floor to the second, looking at stationery, daily necessities, and even listening to a broadcast of a model opera at the radio counter.

As noon approached, the number of people in the mall did not decrease at all; on the contrary, it became more and more crowded, and the air became even more stuffy.

Yang Guangming glanced at his watch and suggested, "It's almost noon, let's find somewhere to have lunch? I know a restaurant nearby that's pretty good and reasonably priced. It's my treat today, everyone should have a good meal."

Xie Feiyang tried to be modest, but still couldn't win against Yang Guangming.

After walking around all morning, I was quite hungry and tired.

The group squeezed out of the department store. The sunlight outside was bright and dazzling, even scorching.

Yang Guangming led them across two busy streets to a restaurant called "Victory Restaurant," which had a small storefront but looked clean and tidy.

The restaurant was equally bustling with noise, the clatter of bowls and chopsticks, and the shouts of waiters calling out the names of dishes. White steam, mixed with the aroma of food, kept wafting out from the kitchen doorway.

They waited a while before finding a newly vacated square table in the corner, with a long bench next to it still warm.

After everyone sat down, Yang Guangming picked up the greasy menu on the table and looked at it.

"It's so hot today, so let's skip the baijiu. This restaurant has beer, it's delicious and thirst-quenching," Yang Guangming said to everyone, mainly explaining to Xie Feiyang. "Let's order some dishes to go with the rice, something to treat ourselves. What do you all want to eat?" As he spoke, he naturally handed the menu to Feng Xianghong and Lin Jianyue first.

The two women politely declined each other's offers, then huddled together to look at the menu and ordered a stir-fried shrimp dish and a home-style tofu dish, both of which were relatively affordable and delicious.

Xie Feiyang leaned over to look at the menu and added a local specialty, braised fish tail, and a soup dish, pickled bamboo shoots and pork soup, knowing that Feng Xianghong liked to drink soup.

Sunshine Restaurant added another signature dish, poached chicken, and a stir-fried bok choy, making it a six-dish meal with a soup, featuring both meat and vegetables, fish and meat—a truly sumptuous meal.

He called over the busy waitress, ordered some food, and also asked for a few bottles of beer and two bottles of orange soda for the woman.

"Comrade Guangming, you've gone to too much trouble." Feng Xianghong looked at the table full of food and felt a little embarrassed.

“It’s rare for everyone to get together on the weekend, so having fun is the most important thing. Besides, we’ve been out shopping all morning and we’re all tired, so we should have a good meal.” Yang Guangming responded gently, his tone making people feel comfortable.

While waiting for the food to be served, everyone drank the complimentary barley tea brought by the waiter and chatted casually.

The conversation shifted from the clothes and fabric they had just bought to interesting stories from their respective factories and workplaces, and then to the movies they had recently watched and the news they had heard.

Yang Guangyao was initially a little reserved and didn't talk much, but Xie Feiyang and Feng Xianghong were both very talkative and humorous. Yang Guangming would also frequently steer the conversation toward him, asking him about interesting things that happened in the accounting team and getting him involved.

Gradually, Yang Guangyao relaxed and occasionally shared some bizarre stories about how the factory's payroll was calculated, making everyone laugh. The atmosphere gradually became harmonious and pleasant.

Lin Jianyue remained quiet, mostly listening attentively with a faint, gentle smile always on her lips.

Her gaze would occasionally meet Yang Guangming's, and the two would exchange a smile, everything understood without words, a sense of tacit peace.

Yang Guangyao saw all of this and became even more certain of his previous guess. He was also relieved that his younger brother had found such a quiet, pretty, and compatible girl.

The dishes were served one after another, their colors enticing and their aromas irresistible.

Everyone started eating, praising the delicious taste and perfect cooking time.

Yang Guangming naturally used serving chopsticks to pick up a piece of boiled chicken thigh meat for Lin Jianyue next to him, dipped it in sauce, and said: "Try this. Their chicken is cooked to perfection and is quite tender."

Lin Jianyue whispered "thank you," her cheeks slightly flushed. She lowered her head and ate the chicken in small bites. The chicken was indeed tender and flavorful.

Feng Xianghong winked at Xie Feiyang, who understood and chuckled to himself, then scooped several plump shrimp into Feng Xianghong's bowl with a spoon.

Yang Guangyao pretended not to see his younger brother's actions, and focused on eating his food. However, he was happy for his brother and found the meal particularly delicious.

The meal was a great success, with everyone enjoying themselves and all the food on their plates being completely devoured.

After paying the bill at the counter, everyone left the restaurant. The satisfaction after the meal made them feel happy and lazy, not wanting to move.

Standing at the restaurant entrance, the afternoon sun was scorching, making the ground hot.

"I have some other things to do this afternoon, so I have to go now." After saying that, Xie Feiyang looked at Feng Xianghong, "Xianghong, are you going straight back to Ruikangli?"

“Yes, Jian Yue and I will go back together, and we can put the new clothes back.” Feng Xianghong nodded, carrying the bag of new clothes in her hand.

“Alright, I’ll take you to the station ahead and watch you get on the train before I leave.” Xie Feiyang said this naturally, showing his thoughtfulness.

Yang Guangming also said to his second brother, "Second brother, we still need to go to the tailor shop to deliver the fabric so that it can be made as soon as possible."

Yang Guangyao held the box of new clothes and shoes tightly in his hands and nodded, saying, "Okay, sure."

Lin Jianyue looked at Yang Guangming, a hint of reluctance in her eyes, and said softly, "Well... Comrade Yang Guangming, Brother Guangyao, we'll be going now. Thank you for today..." Her gratitude was heartfelt, for this pleasant day.

"Be careful on the road." Yang Guangming looked at her with gentle eyes and gave her a word of advice.

Feng Xianghong smiled and waved to Yang Guangming and his brother, her voice hearty: "Comrade Guangming, Brother Guangyao, thank you for today! Let's get together again next time!"

"Goodbye, take care on your journey." Yang Guangming and Yang Guangyao waved goodbye.

Watching Xie Feiyang and the two women walk towards the bus stop, chatting and laughing, Yang Guangming looked away and said to his second brother, "Let's go, the tailor shop is on another street, not far."

The two brothers pushed their bicycles along the street lined with sycamore trees, walking slowly, the shade of which brought a bit of coolness.

After a moment of silence, Yang Guangyao finally couldn't help but turn his head to look at his younger brother, a knowing and inquisitive smile on his face, and asked, "Mingming, you and that Comrade Lin Jianyue... are dating, right?" Although he used a question, his tone was certain.

Yang Guangming, pushing the cart, paused for a moment upon hearing this, but without stopping, he nodded frankly, a smile appearing on his lips: "Yes, that's right."

He hadn't originally intended to keep this a secret from his family, especially his second brother.

Although he had suspected it, Yang Guangyao was still somewhat surprised to hear his younger brother admit it himself. His eyes widened: "Wow, you've kept it well hidden! We didn't hear a thing at home. How long have you been talking?" he asked curiously, feeling happy for his brother.

"It's been quite a while," Yang Guangming replied calmly, without going into too much detail.

"It's been quite a while?" Yang Guangyao was genuinely shocked this time. "You're too tight-lipped! Mom, Dad, and my older brother definitely don't know yet!" He couldn't believe his younger brother could keep such a big thing a secret.

Yang Guangming pushed the cart, his gaze fixed on the dappled road ahead, broken up by the shadows of the trees, and explained:
"It's not that we intentionally wanted to hide it from our families. It's just that we're both still young, and Jianyue is even younger than me."

We're still a long way from getting married. I'm thinking of waiting until our relationship is more stable and the timing is more right.

There's not much point in telling people now, other than causing my parents unnecessary worry or attracting some gossip.

His considerations were mature and far-sighted.

After careful consideration, Yang Guangyao realized that his younger brother's considerations were indeed reasonable.

Although this era advocates free love, young people dating in private, especially someone as young as my brother who is a leader in the factory, are prone to attracting unnecessary excessive attention and gossip if they go public too early. If things change in the future, it could be counterproductive. My brother's approach shows maturity and reliability.

“That’s true…” Yang Guangyao nodded in understanding, then asked with concern, with the sense of responsibility of an older brother, “Then… what is Comrade Lin Jianyue’s family situation? Judging from her temperament and speech, she is quiet and gentle, unlike a girl from an ordinary working-class family.” He had a feeling that the girl’s family might be well-off.

Yang Guangming hesitated for a moment, and aside from the specific rank and status of Lin Jianyue's parents, which he felt was inconvenient to elaborate on, he didn't hide anything else, and gave a rather general account:

"Her parents are both soldiers, veteran revolutionaries, and they both work in the military now. Her eldest brother and sister are also in the military system, and her second brother was a sent-down youth who is still working in the countryside."

She is currently a statistician at the Dongfang Machinery Factory, and she and her classmate Feng Xianghong are temporarily staying at Feng Xianghong's house.

Upon hearing that it was a military family, and that the family members were veteran revolutionaries, Yang Guangyao's face showed a look of realization mixed with a touch of solemn respect.
"So they're from a family of revolutionary soldiers. No wonder... They're clearly a family with good upbringing and discipline."

He had a vague feeling that his brother's choice of a partner must have been of high quality, but since his brother was so composed, he must know what he was doing.

He then asked, "Do her family... know about your relationship?" This was the key question.

"I don't know yet." Yang Guangming shook his head, his tone calm. "Let's talk about it when our relationship is more stable, or when there's a suitable opportunity. There's no rush now."

Looking at his younger brother's calm and composed profile, which appeared exceptionally reliable under the dappled shadows of the trees, Yang Guangyao couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration and emotion.

Despite his young age, he is so thoughtful and far-sighted, calm and composed in handling matters, and manages everything perfectly. No wonder he is appreciated by his superiors and has found such a wonderful partner with whom he is so compatible.

In contrast, Yang Guangyao felt completely flustered about meeting the parents and needed his younger brother's help and comfort. It was truly...

"Mingming, you really are... much better than your second brother." Yang Guangyao said sincerely, his tone filled with joy for his younger brother, but also with a hint of self-consciousness. "Comrade Lin Jianyue is a good girl, she looks kind and sensible, and has a good temper. You two... are a perfect match. Your second brother is truly happy for you." He patted his younger brother's shoulder.

Yang Guangming smiled, his tone becoming more relaxed: "Thank you, Second Brother. You and Comrade Xinlei will be fine too, have faith."

Mentioning Yue Xinlei, Yang Guangyao's face showed a mixture of sweetness and trepidation. He thought of the "task" he faced and his brother's encouragement, and nodded vigorously.
"Yes! Thank you for your kind words! I... I will try my best! I can't let Xinlei down, and I can't let you and Mom and Dad down either!"

The two brothers exchanged a smile, a tacit understanding, mutual support, and unspoken bond flowing between them. They were not just brothers; at that moment, they were more like comrades-in-arms who could share their secrets and encourage each other.

The two brothers were talking when they arrived at the tailor shop.

It was a small shop located at the entrance of an alley, with a sign that read "Fine Craftsmanship Tailor" hanging at the door, and the sound of sewing machines clattering could be heard from inside.

Yang Guangming handed the fabric to the master tailor, then had his second brother stand up straight and took the master tailor's measurements. He specifically pointed out that the second brother's pants needed to be made to fit well and be crisp, as he needed them urgently.

The old craftsman, adjusting his reading glasses, noted down the requirements and arranged to pick up the clothes in two days. Only then did the two brothers ride their bicycles, laden with their purchases and their own thoughts, towards home.

(End of this chapter)