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

Chapter 204, Section 203: Zhao Guodong's Determination. His Sword Points at the Finance Department. He Holds the Weakness. A Peaceful Resolution.
In August, the sun blazes down on Shanghai.

Inside the Hongxing State-owned Cotton Mill, workers, their work clothes soaked with sweat, were busy at their respective posts.

Although the accounting team's office was cooler than the workshop, it was still filled with the heat of summer.

Yang Guangyao sat by the window, head down, checking the production report of Workshop One on his abacus. His fingers moved quickly across the abacus, the beads clattering together with a crisp, dense sound that was particularly clear in the slightly stuffy air.

Having been a full-time employee for over a month, Yang Guangyao's youthful naiveté has faded considerably, replaced by a more composed and confident demeanor.

His white shirt sleeves were neatly rolled up to his elbows, revealing his tanned forearms. The watch on his wrist, a gift from Yue Xinlei's mother, had its strap carefully adjusted so it wouldn't bump against the abacus while he worked. Yang Guangyao was completely absorbed in his work, occasionally raising his hand to wipe the sweat from his brow before continuing his calculations.

Yang Guangyao's gaze darted back and forth between the reports and the abacus, occasionally making a mark on the paper with a pencil. His calculation speed was fast, the result of months of diligent practice.

A slight noise came from the office doorway. Yang Guangyao looked up and saw Yue Xinlei carrying an aluminum lunchbox, her forehead beaded with sweat. She moved slowly and quietly, careful not to disturb her colleagues who were still working.

"Aren't you done calculating yet? Let's eat first. The cafeteria has winter melon and pork rib soup today, I got you a bowl." Yue Xinlei walked to his table, put down the lunchbox, and spoke softly.

Today she wore a light green polyester shirt and blue trousers, her two braids neatly styled, and a faint smile on her face. The crisp collar of the shirt accentuated her delicate neck. Despite the hot weather, her clothes remained impeccably neat, showing little sign of sweat.

Yang Guangyao quickly stood up and took the lunchbox: "It'll be ready soon, just a few lines of data left. Why did you make another trip? I can eat by myself." His voice was tinged with concern; in such hot weather, Yue Xinlei had specially brought him food.

“It’s on the way.” Yue Xinlei looked at him with bright eyes. “Besides, Mom said to tell you to eat more. You seem to have lost weight recently.” Her cheeks were slightly flushed as she spoke, whether from the heat or from mentioning her mother’s concern for him, it was hard to tell.

Yang Guangyao felt a warmth in his heart and smiled shyly. Since his promotion, his relationship with Yue Xinlei had become increasingly stable. Although Yue's parents didn't say it aloud, their actions had implicitly approved of their relationship. Aunt Gao often asked Yue Xinlei to bring him some good food, and Secretary Yue would occasionally inquire about his work situation when they met.

The two now work in the same department. Although they try to keep their distance during work hours to avoid gossip, it's common for them to come and go together. Section Chief Lang Tianrui is happy to see this and sometimes jokes that they are "the best partners in the accounting team."

Most of her colleagues gave her kind looks, and a few whispered among themselves about how "lucky" or "climbing the social ladder," but none of them dared to say it openly.

Yang Guangyao didn't care about any of that. He cherished this hard-won job, and even more so, his relationship with Yue Xinlei. He knew he had to work even harder to be worthy of her and not disappoint her and her family.

He finished his meal in a few bites and went back to work. Yue Xinlei didn't leave immediately; she picked up a newspaper and gently fanned him. The newspaper stirred a slight breeze, ruffling the hair on his sun-drenched forehead and bringing a touch of coolness.

The sunlight outside the window was intense, while inside, the abacus clattered softly, and a tacit understanding and warmth flowed between the two without the need for words.

Occasionally their eyes would meet, and a smile would flicker in their gazes. In the sweltering heat of summer, this affection was like a cool spring, nourishing the hearts of the two young people.

……

The factory building, third-floor conference room.

The factory committee meeting had just concluded, and the door was pushed open as the factory leaders emerged one after another. Each of them wore a solemn expression, as if the intense heat outside had seeped into the meeting room.

Factory Director Zhao Guodong walked in the middle, his face so dark it seemed to drip water. He pursed his lips tightly, his jawline taut, and walked silently toward the director's office. His steps were long and hurried, revealing an barely suppressed rage.

The deputy factory directors and committee members following behind him also looked serious, and no one spoke. Some looked down at the tips of their shoes, some gazed out the window at the factory area, and some secretly observed Zhao Guodong's back, each with their own thoughts.

Secretary Tian, ​​who was walking at the back, stopped and whispered a few words to the director of the Party Committee Office beside him. His gaze swept over Zhao Guodong's back, his eyes filled with complex emotions. There was understanding and helplessness in his eyes, which ultimately turned into determination.

Zhao Guodong returned to his office, slamming the door shut behind him with a loud bang. The sound echoed in the empty corridor, drawing the attention of several passing staff members.

He walked to the window, looking down at the bustling factory area below, his chest heaving violently, clearly trying his best to suppress his anger.

On his desk lay the final draft of the technical improvement plan, which he had meticulously prepared for over two months.

The words "Equipment Technology Transformation and Partial Upgrade Plan of Hongxing State-Owned Cotton Mill" on the cover seemed particularly jarring at that moment. That thick stack of plans represented the culmination of countless days and nights of hard work by him and the technical staff.

To develop this plan, he and his technical team worked countless sleepless nights, repeatedly calculating and demonstrating the feasibility of reducing costs as much as possible.

They consulted a large amount of technical data, sought advice from industry experts, and even visited several other manufacturers who had already carried out similar modifications to learn from their experience.

He knew the factory was short of funds, so the plan was revised again and again, eventually reducing the budget to a minimum of 50,000. This was the bottom line; any less and the renovation results couldn't be guaranteed.

The 50,000 yuan is planned to be used to replace the main components of the two long-overdue and frequently malfunctioning spinning machines in Workshop 3, and to automate the doffing device in Workshop 1. These machines have been in use for over ten years, and their parts are severely aged, resulting in low efficiency and frequent malfunctions that affect the operation of the entire production line.

Once completed, it will not only greatly improve production efficiency and reduce defect rates, but also significantly reduce energy consumption and the labor intensity of workers.

Workers will no longer have to work overtime to repair frequent equipment malfunctions, and their working environment will also improve. In his view, this is a very worthwhile investment, crucial for improving production efficiency in the coming years.

However, at the factory committee meeting just now, his proposal was once again stalled due to funding issues. This wasn't the first time, but each time it had been postponed or rejected for various reasons.

As usual, Liu Jinsheng, the head of the finance department, came up with a long list of reasons: the first half of the year's performance did not meet expectations, working capital was tight, various expenses needed to be guaranteed, and funds for technological upgrading could not be raised temporarily...

When Liu Jinsheng spoke, his tone was as respectful and polite as ever, and his posture was very humble, but his attitude was unusually firm, which can be summed up in two words: no money.

The other committee members either remained silent or echoed Liu Jinsheng, saying things like "let's reconsider further" or "let's postpone it." Their eyes darted away, avoiding Zhao Guodong's gaze.

Secretary Tian finally made the decision, saying that the technological upgrade was very important, but the funding problem was indeed a concern. He instructed the finance department to think of a solution and see if there would be an opportunity to arrange it in the second half of the year, but for now, the priority was to ensure normal production and operation. A standard "delaying tactic."

Zhao Guodong felt a surge of frustration stuck in his chest, making him feel suffocated.

Why is it so difficult for him, the factory director, to actually do something to promote technological progress and production development in the factory?

Without the cooperation and support of the finance department, all his plans and ideas were like being tied up, unable to move forward. Every time he proposed a new plan, he always ran into obstacles with funding issues.

Liu Jinsheng is a capable person. He has managed to keep such a large amount of accounting in the factory without any major problems over the years.

But he was too "steady," almost conservative, even to the point of being stagnant.

They only care about rules and procedures, afraid of taking any risks, and even less willing to cut short-term expenses in other areas for things that may bring long-term benefits.

Or rather, he wasn't one of Zhao Guodong's people at all, so naturally he wouldn't actively cooperate with Zhao Guodong's work plan.

As the factory's money bag, the finance department would indeed find it difficult to carry out many tasks if it were not in the hands of the factory manager.

Zhao Guodong took a deep breath and slowly exhaled, trying to calm himself down.

He walked to his desk and sat down, his fingers tapping unconsciously on the surface. Besides the technical upgrade plan, the desk was piled high with documents and reports awaiting approval, but he had no interest in dealing with them at the moment.

This large factory with thousands of employees creates value every day, but due to aging equipment and outdated technology, it faces increasing market competition pressure.

As the head of the factory, Zhao Guodong bears a heavy responsibility.

He recalled his ambitious plans when he first took over as factory director, wanting to implement sweeping reforms to revitalize the old factory. However, he encountered obstacles at every turn, especially in the use of funds, where he was constantly hampered by the finance department.

This can't go on. We have to get past the finance department!
Liu Jinsheng, this section chief, must be replaced!

This thought had been swirling in his mind for more than a day or two, but only now had it become so clear and resolute.

He thought of Yang Guangming. This young man had been transferred to the finance department as deputy head almost a year ago.

Throughout the year, Yang Guangming remained low-key and pragmatic, focusing on learning the business, starting with the most basic voucher review and report preparation, and made rapid progress.

With his exceptional memory and learning ability, coupled with tremendous effort he put in behind the scenes, he has basically mastered the core business processes of the finance department.

More importantly, with the help of both the light and the shadows, he gained a thorough understanding of the finance department and gradually built his own authority within the department.

Although on the surface Liu Jinsheng still holds the reins of the finance department, and his control seems to have tightened after Yin Yongliang's transfer, Yang Guangming has won the approval of some senior accountants and younger staff members thanks to his calm personality and excellent work ability.

In particular, his decisive handling of the historical issues of Groups Four and Five allowed Zhou Weimin and Wu Aihua to establish themselves firmly, thus building an image of fairness and decisiveness within the department. Zhao Guodong witnessed all of this.

Now, it's time.

Zhao Guodong picked up the phone on the table and dialed the number for the deputy head of the finance department's office. The dial on the phone made a creaking sound, which was particularly clear in the quiet office.

The phone rang a few times before being answered, and Yang Guangming's calm voice came through: "Hello, Deputy Director of the Finance Department."

"Guangming, it's me. If you have time now, come to my office." Zhao Guodong's voice still carried a trace of lingering anger, but it had softened considerably.

"Yes, factory manager, I'll be right there," Yang Guangming replied crisply.

After hanging up the phone, Zhao Guodong leaned back in his chair, closed his eyes, and rubbed his temples.

He needs to think carefully about how to discuss this matter with Yang Guangming. This not only concerns personnel adjustments, but also the future development of the factory.

In the deputy head of the finance department's office, Yang Guangming put down the phone, his eyes slightly narrowed. He sensed an unusual emotion in the factory director's tone. It seemed the factory committee meeting hadn't gone well.

He quickly tidied up the files on his desk, gathered together several reports under review, locked the drawer, and got up to leave.

His movements were unhurried, maintaining his usual rhythm, but his mind was racing, trying to figure out why the factory manager had suddenly summoned him.

As we passed the main office, the sound of Corey's abacus was still clattering, but it seemed quieter than usual.

Many people secretly glanced at him, their eyes filled with various speculations. The factory committee meeting had just ended, and the deputy section chief was already leaving, which inevitably aroused people's imaginations.

Yang Guangming walked out of the finance department with a calm expression and steady steps, heading towards the factory director's office on the third floor. He encountered several acquaintances from other departments in the corridor, nodded in greeting, and did not linger.

The factory building's corridors were spacious and quiet, a stark contrast to the noise in the workshops. Sun-drenched leather shoes clicked crisply on the terrazzo floor. His heart was far from calm; he vaguely sensed that this conversation might be anything but ordinary.

Knocking on the door of the factory manager's office, Yang Guangming saw Zhao Guodong standing by the window smoking, his brow furrowed, the office filled with smoke. Several cigarette butts were already piled up in the ashtray, clearly indicating the factory manager had just smoked quite a bit.

"Factory manager, you wanted to see me?" Yang Guangming closed the door and walked to his desk.

His gaze swept quickly across the table, and he saw the technical improvement plan. He immediately understood a few things.

Zhao Guodong turned around, stubbed out his cigarette, and pointed to the chair opposite him: "Sit down." His voice was a little hoarse, probably because he smoked too much.

Yang Guangming sat down as instructed, calmly looking at Zhao Guodong, waiting for him to speak.

Zhao Guodong sat back in his chair and remained silent for a few seconds, seemingly organizing his thoughts.

Then, he got straight to the point, his tone heavy: "At the factory committee meeting just now, the technical improvement plan I submitted was not approved again."

He pointed to the proposal on the table, "The reason for the stall is the same old problem: funding. Liu Jinsheng said there's no money, not a single penny can be squeezed out."

Yang Guangming listened quietly without interrupting. He wasn't surprised by the result. He knew the factory manager had recently devoted a lot of energy to this plan. He was also aware of the finance department's attitude. Liu Jinsheng had been emphasizing the tight budget and the need to cut all kinds of expenses.

"Fifty thousand yuan! Only fifty thousand!" Zhao Guodong's voice rose slightly, filled with barely suppressed frustration. "With just this little money, we could replace the key components of those two outdated spinning machines in Workshop 3, and we could convert the doffing device in Workshop 1 into a semi-automatic system! How much efficiency could we improve? How many malfunctions could we reduce? But we just can't do it!"

He slammed his hand on the table, making the teacup rattle. Tea spilled out, leaving dark water stains on the surface.

"Liu Jinsheng keeps talking about rules and difficulties! I think he just doesn't want to cooperate! He's deliberately trying to make things difficult for me!" Zhao Guodong's anger surged again, and his face flushed red. He paced back and forth in the office like a trapped lion.

Yang Guangming spoke up at the right moment, his tone calm: "Factory Director, please calm down. Section Chief Liu's work style is indeed rather conservative."

He chose to use the word "seeking stability" rather than the more negative assessment that added fuel to the fire.

"It's not seeking stability, it's stagnation! It's hindering progress!" Zhao Guodong interrupted him, his gaze sharp. "Guangming, you've been in the finance department for almost a year now. You know the situation there better than I do. Tell me, is there any chance Liu Jinsheng can change?"

Yang Guangming hesitated for a moment, then shook his head and answered frankly, "It's difficult. Section Chief Liu's style of doing things is already set in stone, and..."

He paused, seemingly choosing his words carefully, "Moreover, he has a strong desire to control the finance department and is unlikely to easily change his mindset to match your work pace."

Zhao Guodong snorted coldly: "I think it's not that he can't, it's that he's unwilling! I have to crack this nut in the finance department! Otherwise, I, as the factory director, will never be able to get things done!"

His gaze fell on Yang Guangming, becoming unusually solemn: "Guangming, I'm planning to make some changes. Liu Jinsheng's position as section chief must be replaced."

Yang Guangming's heart raced slightly, but his face remained calm. He had a feeling the factory manager would make a decision, but he hadn't expected it to be so quick and direct.

This move is not easy. Liu Jinsheng has been operating in the factory for many years and is deeply entrenched. He is not so easy to move.

“You’ve been a deputy section chief for almost a year now,” Zhao Guodong continued, his tone leaving no room for doubt. “Your performance is evident to all, and you’re basically familiar with the work. It’s time for you to take another step forward.”

"Factory manager, I..." Yang Guangming wanted to say something.

He wanted to remind the factory manager of the potential resistance, to explain his own lack of experience, and to suggest a more prudent approach. But seeing Zhao Guodong's determined gaze, he swallowed his words.

Zhao Guodong waved his hand, interrupting him: "I know you're still inexperienced and, more importantly, too young. Suddenly promoting you to section chief will definitely cause some discussion. But that's not a problem! What I value is your ability, whether you can manage this business for me and the factory!"

He leaned forward, placed his hands on the table, and stared intently at Yang Guangming: "I'm asking you, do you have the confidence to take on this responsibility?"

The sunlight met his gaze directly, without him flinching.

He was silent for a few seconds, as if weighing something, before slowly speaking, his voice clear and firm: "Factory manager, as long as you trust me, I am confident that I can do this job well."

"Good! That's exactly what I wanted to hear!" Zhao Guodong finally smiled, but quickly suppressed it again. "However, getting Liu Jinsheng to willingly give up this position is a problem."

He frowned: "Liu Jinsheng is a slippery character, cautious in his actions, and almost never leaves any evidence against him. If I insist on going through with it at the Party Committee meeting, Secretary Tian might not support me. Even if it works out in the end, it will cause a lot of trouble."

Yang Guangming nodded in agreement. After a moment's thought, he said, "Factory Director, how about... I go talk to Section Chief Liu first?" This suggestion was bold, but it also showed his confidence and sense of responsibility.

Zhao Guodong raised an eyebrow: "You're going to negotiate? How are you going to negotiate?"

"Talk openly and frankly."

Yang Guangming said calmly, "Section Chief Liu is a smart man. He should have a clear understanding of the changes in the factory over the past year."

After Deputy Section Chief Yin was transferred, the finance department, which he had managed for many years, was no longer a monolithic entity. If he were to proactively request a reassignment, it would be beneficial for everyone.

Zhao Guodong pondered for a moment: "Are you confident you can persuade him?"

"I'm not entirely sure," Yang Guangming said frankly, "but it's worth a try. Although Section Chief Liu prefers stability, he also values ​​his reputation. If we can give him a relatively dignified way out, it might work out."

He paused, then added, "Moreover, I did find some things... Although it's not a big deal, it's enough to make him understand that if he stubbornly resists, it won't do him any good."

A flicker of surprise crossed Zhao Guodong's eyes, followed by understanding. He knew Yang Guangming was meticulous; if he said that, he must have some knowledge of it.

"Oh? What did you find out?" Zhao Guodong asked.

Yang Guangming took a thin folder from his briefcase, opened it, and found two copies of documents inside. He pushed it in front of Zhao Guodong: "Factory Director, please take a look at this."

Zhao Guodong picked up the document and began to read it carefully. The more he read, the more his brows furrowed.

These are two funding approval forms from two years ago, both involving substantial amounts.

The approval process appeared complete, with all signatures and seals present. At first glance, nothing seemed amiss, but Yang Guangming had specifically added a verification note.

According to the verification instructions, a careful review of the attachments and remarks reveals some irregularities: one is that the project funds were over-allocated, and the other is that the purchase price was significantly higher than the market price at the time, lacking sufficient basis for price inquiry.

Crucially, the person who ultimately signed off on the approval was Liu Jinsheng. Meanwhile, the factory leader in charge of finances at the time was Director Dou, who had already been transferred.

“This is…” Zhao Guodong raised his head, his gaze sharp.

"It was approved by Director Dou when he was in office."

Yang Guangming said calmly, "At the time, Director Dou was urging us very urgently, and the pressure was immense. Section Chief Liu held back most of the pressure, but these two transactions were ultimately signed off. The accounts were kept very smooth, and it was almost impossible to spot any problems. I only discovered the discrepancy after checking many original vouchers and market records from that time."

He paused for a moment, then continued, "In nature, it was a violation of regulations. But fortunately, the funds were ultimately used for factory affairs, and no personal embezzlement was found. So, this matter could be considered a big or small matter."

Zhao Guodong understood what Yang Guangming meant. If taken seriously, these two violations would be enough to get Liu Jinsheng disciplined, or even dismissed.

However, if a higher-ups say something, it can be categorized as a "legacy issue" or a "workaround during a special period," and let off lightly. This is indeed a very significant bargaining chip.

Zhao Guodong handed the documents back to Yang Guangming, looking at him with a complicated expression: "When did you find out about this?"

“About a month ago,” Yang Guangming answered frankly. “I’ve been routinely checking historical accounts. I’ve been looking at them for a long time and found some suspicious points, so I paid more attention. Now they might come in handy, so it’s not all my hard work was for nothing.”

Zhao Guodong was silent for a moment, then suddenly sighed: "If Liu Jinsheng knew you had this in your hands, he probably wouldn't be able to sleep well at night."

Yang Guangming smiled and said, "Factory manager, I didn't want to do it this way either. But sometimes, when things get to this point, you have to be prepared."

Zhao Guodong nodded, indicating his understanding. He pondered for a moment, then finally made a decision: "Okay, we'll do it your way. You go talk to him first. Be sincere, but make sure to mention the important points. Let him know my determination."

"I understand, Factory Director." Yang Guangming put away the folder and solemnly stated, "I will handle things carefully."

"Let me know any pressure you need me to exert," Zhao Guodong added.

“Not for now.” Yang Guangming shook his head. “I’ll talk to him privately first. If we can’t reach an agreement, we’ll think of another way.”

"Okay." Zhao Guodong stood up, patted Yang Guangming on the shoulder, "Guangming, I'm leaving this matter to you. Make sure you handle it properly."

"Don't worry." Yang Guangming also stood up, his gaze firm.

Back in his office, Yang Guangming dialed Liu Jinsheng's office number. The call connected, and Liu Jinsheng's familiar, unhurried voice came through: "Hello, Finance Department."

"Section Chief Liu, it's me, Yang Guangming."

"Oh, Guangming, what's up?" Liu Jinsheng's voice carried a hint of barely perceptible wariness. The factory committee meeting had just ended, and Guangming had been summoned by the factory director. Now, with this phone call, he couldn't help but have some suspicions.

"There's something I'd like to discuss with you," Yang Guangming said politely. "It's not convenient to talk on the phone. Do you have time after get off work tonight? I'd like to invite you to dinner."

There was a few seconds of silence on the other end of the phone. Liu Jinsheng was clearly quickly considering Yang Guangming's intentions. "Having dinner..." he drawled, "Is there anything we can't discuss in the office?"

"These are some work-related ideas that I'd like to ask you for advice on," Yang Guangming insisted, his tone still humble. "I've already found a place, the newly opened Chunfeng Restaurant next to the factory, with small private rooms, quiet."

Liu Jinsheng paused for a moment, seemingly weighing his options. Finally, he agreed: "Okay. See you after get off work then."

"Okay, see you after get off work." Yang Guangming said, then politely hung up the phone.

He put down the phone and took a deep breath. He knew that the next meal was crucial, and he needed to think things through carefully.

The outcome of their final communication not only affected personnel changes in the finance department and the factory's future development, but also his own career. He had to handle it carefully, aiming to achieve his goal while ensuring a smooth transition.

……

When the afternoon bell rang, workers poured out of the workshops like a tide, and the factory area immediately became lively.

Yang Guangming didn't rush to leave. After finishing the last report, he carefully checked the office one last time before locking the door and going downstairs. His movements were unhurried, as if it were just the end of an ordinary workday.

After leaving the gate, he headed straight for the Chunfeng Hotel outside the factory area.

The restaurant wasn't big, but it was clean and tidy.

He gave his name, and the waiter led him into a small private room on the second floor.

The private room was indeed very small, only big enough to fit a square table and four chairs.

Yang Guangming ordered two dishes and a soup: braised ribbonfish, stir-fried bok choy, and tomato and egg drop soup. He also specifically asked for a bottle of Luzhou Laojiao liquor. He remembered that Liu Jinsheng liked this kind of liquor, saying that it had a mellow taste and didn't cause headaches.

Liu Jinsheng arrived before all the dishes had been served.

He pushed open the door and came in with his usual, seemingly friendly smile: "Guangming, have you been waiting long?" His gaze quickly swept over the private room.

"No, no, I just arrived too." Yang Guangming quickly stood up and gestured for him to sit down. "Section Chief Liu, please have a seat. Was it hot on the way?"

"It's alright, just a few steps away." Liu Jinsheng casually put down his bag and looked around the small private room. "This place is nice, quite quiet." His tone was relaxed, but his eyes were wary.

After exchanging a few pleasantries, the waiter began serving the dishes. Yang Guangming poured Liu Jinsheng a full glass of wine, and then poured one for himself.

"Come on, Section Chief Liu, let me toast you. Thank you for your guidance and help in my work this past year." Yang Guangming raised his glass, his attitude sincere.

Liu Jinsheng also raised his glass and clinked it with his: "Let's learn from each other. You're young, quick-witted, and learn fast. You've helped me a lot." His words carried the praise of an elder for a younger person.

The two downed their drinks in one gulp. The liquor was strong baijiu, spicy on the palate but with a lingering aftertaste. After a few drinks, the atmosphere in the private room seemed to ease somewhat.

Instead of getting straight to the point, Yang Guangming chatted with Liu Jinsheng about recent events at the factory, their work experiences, some of the older colleagues in the finance department, and even the weather and everyday life.

He acted like a humble junior seeking advice, rather than an opponent about to make a showdown.

Liu Jinsheng cooperated, speaking succinctly, but the wariness in his eyes never completely disappeared.

His gaze toward Yang Guangming was scrutinizing and thoughtful, as he tried to discern Yang Guangming's true intentions from his expression and tone.

After several rounds of drinks, the food was almost finished.

Yang Guangming felt the time was right, so he put down his chopsticks and casually asked, "Section Chief Liu, do you still remember Deputy Section Chief Yin Yongliang?"

Liu Jinsheng paused slightly in his chopsticks, then resumed his composure: "I remember, why are you suddenly bringing him up?" His voice was steady, but Yang Guangming noticed his fingers unconsciously rubbing against the wine glass.

“I ran into him when I went to the union office a couple of days ago.” Yang Guangming said in a relaxed tone, “He looked good and had gained some weight. He told me that he works in charge of books and newspapers at the staff activity center. His job is very easy and stress-free. He goes to get off work and leaves on time every day, takes a stroll, and drinks tea. He’s living a pretty comfortable life.”

Liu Jinsheng said "Oh," took a sip of soup, and his expression was unreadable: "Really? That's good. Old Yin used to be too serious, which ruined his health. Changing to a less demanding job is a good thing for him."

“Yes,” Yang Guangming agreed. “Sometimes taking a step back opens up a whole new world. We’ve made a lot of money, but the pressure is much less, and we feel much more at ease. Speaking of which, Deputy Section Chief Yin’s mental state is much better now than when he was in the finance department.”

Liu Jinsheng raised his head, looked at Yang Guangming, and his eyes became deep.

He picked up his wine glass, took a slow sip, and remained silent. A moment of silence fell over the private room, broken only by the faint chirping of cicadas outside the window.

Yang Guangming knew perfectly well that Liu Jinsheng had understood his implication.

He stopped beating around the bush, put down his wine glass, and became serious: "Section Chief Liu, there's something I'd like to discuss with you frankly."

Liu Jinsheng put down his wine glass, leaned back slightly, and placed his hands on the table in a listening posture: "Go on." His expression also became serious, knowing that the real show was about to begin.

Yang Guangming took out a thin folder from the briefcase beside him, opened it, and gently pushed two copies of documents inside in front of Liu Jinsheng. "Section Chief Liu, please take a look at this first," he said calmly.

Liu Jinsheng picked up the document with a puzzled look and began to examine it carefully.

At first, he looked puzzled, but as he read on, his expression changed and fine beads of sweat appeared on his forehead.

He read very slowly and carefully, as if he wanted to extract every single word.

Yang Guangming waited quietly, without saying a word, simply picking up the teapot and refilling their cups. The sound of the water was exceptionally clear in the quiet private room.

Finally, Liu Jinsheng finished reading the last line. He took off his reading glasses, closed his eyes, leaned back in his chair, and sighed heavily. His face was ashen, as if he had aged several years in an instant.

"Where...where did you find these?" His voice was a little hoarse, with a slight, almost imperceptible tremor.

"I discovered it by chance while checking historical accounts," Yang Guangming said calmly. "At the time, I felt there were some suspicious points, so I checked more thoroughly. It took some effort, but I finally figured out the whole story."

Liu Jinsheng remained silent, his chest rising and falling slightly. He knew that Yang Guangming was speaking lightly, but he knew better than anyone how much thought and effort it would take to uncover old accounts from two years ago that had been deliberately covered up.

He also understood what it meant that Yang Guangming chose to bring these things out at this time.

"Director Dou was under a lot of pressure back then," Liu Jinsheng murmured, as if explaining, yet also talking to himself. "Many things were beyond my control..."

“I understand.” Yang Guangming nodded in understanding. “The situation at the time must have been very difficult. It’s already quite remarkable that you were able to withstand most of the pressure. And you handled both accounts very cleanly, almost flawlessly.”

He changed the subject, his tone still calm but carrying an undeniable authority: "However, Section Chief Liu, rules are rules. There were indeed irregularities in the approval of these two funds. If we take this seriously, the consequences could be severe."

Liu Jinsheng's Adam's apple bobbed, but he didn't speak.

He was well aware of the consequences. Once it was exposed, even if he managed to keep his benefits, his position as section chief would be over. His lifelong reputation could be ruined in an instant.

Yang Guangming slowly collected the two documents and put them back in the folder. This action made Liu Jinsheng's gaze follow him, his expression complex.

“Section Chief Liu.” Yang Guangming looked at him, his tone becoming sincere. “First of all, I want to say that I have always respected you personally. I remember your guidance and help to me at work this year. We also get along quite well in private. I hope that we can continue to maintain this friendship in the future.”

Liu Jinsheng nodded silently.

"Secondly, as a friend, or rather, as a junior who respects you, I sincerely hope that you can have a good ending."

Retire gracefully and enjoy a comfortable retirement. At the very least, don't be worse off than Deputy Section Chief Yin Yongliang, wouldn't you agree?

Liu Jinsheng gave a wry smile and remained silent.

"third."

Yang Guangming's gaze sharpened. "You're a smart man. You understand the current situation in the factory better than I do."

You know what kind of temper Director Zhao has.

If he wants to increase production and improve efficiency, he must get through the finance department.

Even if Secretary Tian wanted to protect you, could he protect you temporarily, or permanently? And it seems Deputy Secretary Yue's attitude has subtly changed somewhat, hasn't it?

Upon hearing the words "Deputy Secretary Yue," Liu Jinsheng's eyelids twitched violently.

He had, of course, heard about Yue Xingguo's daughter and Yang Guangming's relationship. The implication was obvious.

Yang Guangming, observing the change in his expression, knew that he had touched on the key point:
"Circumstances are beyond our control. Some positions will have to be given up sooner or later. Rather than being passive and making things awkward for everyone, it's better to take the initiative."

In this way, Factory Director Zhao will appreciate the gesture, Secretary Tian will have a good explanation, and Deputy Secretary Yue will likely be happy to see it. What do you say?

Liu Jinsheng lowered his head, his fingers unconsciously stroking the wine glass, clearly undergoing a fierce internal struggle.

Yang Guangming stopped urging him and gave him enough time to think.

The private room fell silent again, with only the night outside the window growing darker.

After a long while, Liu Jinsheng finally raised his head, his face showing a kind of weary calm.

He let out a long sigh, as if a tremendous burden had been lifted. "Oh, light..."

He spoke, his voice a little hoarse, "You're right. People need to recognize the situation and know when to advance and retreat."

He picked up his glass, downed the rest of the wine in one gulp, and then slammed it down: "I haven't been feeling well lately. It's an old ailment, and the doctor advised me to rest more."

He looked at Yang Guangming, his eyes filled with a hint of helplessness, but also a hint of relief:
"The work in the finance department is too complicated and mentally exhausting. I might... be a little overwhelmed."

After my sick leave ends, I'll submit a report to the factory and request a transfer to a less demanding position. After all, health is the foundation of everything.

Yang Guangming felt a weight lifted from his heart. He picked up the wine bottle, refilled Liu Jinsheng's empty glass, and then raised his own glass.

"Section Chief Liu, I'm relieved to see you think that way. Rest assured, I will do my best to take over the work of the Finance Department and do it well. There won't be any problems. I also wish you a speedy recovery and all the best in your new position."

Liu Jinsheng also raised his glass and clinked it against his. The glasses collided, making a crisp sound.

"From now on, it's up to you young people," Liu Jinsheng said, then downed his drink in one gulp.

The liquor was very strong, and his eyes seemed a little moist; it was unclear whether it was from the alcohol or something else.

The two sat for a while longer, chatting about trivial matters, but the atmosphere had completely changed. When it was time to pay the bill and leave, Yang Guangming insisted on paying.

Stepping out of the restaurant, a cool evening breeze blew by.

The two said goodbye at the restaurant entrance and went their separate ways.

As Yang Guangming watched Liu Jinsheng's slightly unsteady figure disappear into the night, he felt little joy at the victory; instead, a complex emotion spread through him.

This power transition without the smoke of gunpowder quietly came to an end on a sweltering summer night.

(End of this chapter)