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

Yang Guangming watched as his second sister carefully packed the new clothes, leather shoes, watch, and red envelopes into her old wooden box, her movements gentle and precious.

Her eyes were still slightly red, but there was a warm, relieved smile on her lips.

“That’s great.” Her voice was very soft, as if she were talking to herself, or as if she were telling her brother her feelings. “With my family supporting me so much, I feel... much more at ease.”

Yang Guangming nodded: "Your family will always be your support. Tomorrow morning, ask someone to send a message to Luo Xingbang as soon as possible."

“Yes, I know,” Yang Xiangmei replied. “People from the village often go to the county. I’ll go to the crossroads early tomorrow morning to see who goes and ask them to pass on a message to Xingbang Factory.”

The siblings talked for a while longer, mainly Yang Guangming asking questions and Yang Xiangmei answering, about life in the village school and the details of Luo Xingbang's family.

"Are you hungry? I'll go to the kitchen and see what else we have to eat, and make you some dinner." Yang Xiangmei stood up.

Yang Guangming waved his hand dismissively: "Second sister, don't bother. Take me to visit Secretary Sun's house in a bit."

Yang Xiangmei was taken aback: "Now? To Secretary Sun's house?"

“Yes,” Yang Guangming said firmly. “Second Brother’s matter last time, Secretary Sun and Captain Wang helped a lot, and I’ve always remembered that favor. It’s only right and proper that I visit their home this time, so as not to be impolite. Besides…”

He paused, then said meaningfully, "Some things are easier when you have local bigwigs on your side. As long as you're still in Kaoshantun, it's necessary to maintain good relations with them."

Yang Guangming stood up, walked to the heavy travel bag, bent down and opened it.

Besides the clothes, watch, and money he had taken out earlier, there were quite a few other things in the travel bag. He pulled out two nearly new military green canvas bags, which looked bulging.

"I've already packed the gifts for the visit halfway there." Yang Guangming handed one of the canvas bags to Yang Xiangmei. "Perfect, we can each carry one."

Yang Xiangmei took the canvas bag; it felt heavy in her hand. She was a little uneasy: "Little brother, this...how much stuff is in this? It must be too valuable! Even though Secretary Sun and the others helped, they also..."

“Second sister, it’s all about social obligations.” Yang Guangming’s tone was calm, but he had his own ideas. “Our family doesn’t lack these things. Giving a generous gift shows that we remember their kindness. You will be living here in the future, so it won’t hurt to maintain good relations with the village officials. Just say that if you need to go through the procedures to return to the city someday, you can’t leave without their consent.”

He zipped up his travel bag, slung one of the canvas bags over his shoulder, and gestured for Yang Xiangmei to carry the other one as well.

"Let's go, the timing is perfect. If we go too late, people will be having dinner."

Seeing this, Yang Xiangmei said nothing more. She knew that her younger brother always did things methodically and considered things more thoroughly than she did.

She quickly tidied her hair and clothes in front of the small mirror on the table, then picked up a towel to wipe her face, trying to make herself look more presentable.

"I'll tell Teacher Zhou," she said, walking to the door of the next dormitory room and gently knocking.

The door opened, and a young woman, wearing glasses and with short, shoulder-length hair, peeked out.

"Teacher Zhou, my younger brother is here. I'm going out for a bit tonight and might be back late," Yang Xiangmei said.

Teacher Zhou glanced curiously at Yang Guangming standing in the courtyard, then smiled and nodded: "Okay, go ahead, Teacher Yang, no problem."

After giving her instructions, Yang Xiangmei returned and said to Yang Guangming, "Alright, let's go."

The siblings, each carrying a heavy canvas bag, walked out of the gate of Kaoshantun Primary School.

The setting sun cast long shadows of the two people onto the dirt road.

The village was quiet, with wisps of smoke rising from the chimneys of every household, and the air filled with the aroma of firewood and cooked food.

Occasionally, villagers carrying farm tools would return from work and cast curious glances at Yang Xiangmei's companion, Yang Guangming.

As Yang Xiangmei walked, she quietly explained the situation of Secretary Sun's family to Yang Guangming.

“Secretary Sun has three sons, all of whom are married and live separately. He and his wife now live in their old house at the east end of the village. The yard is quite large and fenced off. It’s just the two of them at home, so it’s very quiet.”

Yang Guangming listened attentively, nodding occasionally.

After walking for a few minutes, we arrived at the east end of the village. A spacious courtyard came into view, just as Yang Xiangmei had said. It had a waist-high fence made of wooden poles of varying thicknesses, several fruit trees planted in the courtyard, and a stack of firewood piled in the corner.

The three mud-brick houses looked quite old, but they were kept neatly tidy.

The courtyard gate was ajar. Yang Guangming pushed open the fence gate and went inside with Yang Xiangmei, calling out, "Is Secretary Sun home?"

The sound was exceptionally clear in the quiet courtyard.

Soon, the curtain of the middle room was lifted, and a figure walked out—it was Sun Degui.

He was dressed in his usual old clothes and wearing a hat. When he saw Yang Guangming and Yang Xiangmei in the yard, he was clearly stunned for a moment, and then a warm smile quickly appeared on his face.

"Oh my! Isn't this Comrade Guangming? When did you arrive? Why didn't you send a message beforehand? Please come in! Please come in!" He quickly came forward, his gaze sweeping over the bulging canvas bags on the siblings' shoulders, a knowing look flashing in his eyes, and his smile widened.

"Secretary Sun, I'm sorry to bother you." Yang Guangming smiled and stepped forward to shake hands. "I just arrived this afternoon. I came to see my second sister and also to see you and Captain Wang."

"Good, good! You're here! Come in quickly!" Sun Degui shook Yang Guangming's hand vigorously and warmly ushered the two into the house.

As soon as I lifted the curtain, a strong smell of tobacco hit me.

The room was dimly lit by a kerosene lamp. An elderly woman with gray hair and a kind face was sitting on the edge of the kang (a heated brick bed) sewing shoe soles. When she saw the visitor, she quickly put down her work and stood up.

"Old woman, look who's here! It's Teacher Xiangmei's younger brother, Comrade Guangming from Shanghai!" Sun Degui introduced loudly.

"Hello, Auntie." Yang Guangming greeted her quickly and respectfully.

"Oh my, you must be Guangming! I've heard of you before. Come on, sit on the kang!" Aunt Sun smiled, her wrinkles smoothing out, and quickly wiped the kang mat with a cloth. "Xiangmei, sit down too!"

Yang Guangming and Yang Xiangmei placed the canvas bag on the edge of the kang (a heated brick bed), and as instructed, took off their shoes and climbed onto the kang.

“Secretary Sun, Auntie, I came in a hurry this time and didn’t bring anything nice.” Yang Guangming said, pulling the canvas bag in front of him and opening the buckle. “I brought some local specialties from the south for you two to try. It’s a small token of my family’s appreciation.”

He took things out of his bag, and with each item he took out, Sun Degui and his wife's eyes lit up a little more.

"This is a Jinhua ham, which is rare around here. It can be used for stewing or stir-frying."

"This is two pounds of White Rabbit milk candy, to sweeten the children's mouths."

"These are two pounds of biscuits; you can have a bite to eat when you're hungry."

"This is two pounds of brown sugar. It can be used to make drinks or cooking."

The items were laid out one by one on the kang table. Although there weren't many, each item was considered a valuable gift in the materially scarce rural areas of Northeast China, especially the shiny, uniquely salty ham, which was a rare find.

Sun Degui and his wife were both pleasantly surprised and felt bad about it.

"Oh dear! Comrade Guangming, you're too kind! You've gone to so much trouble!" Sun Degui waved his hands repeatedly, but his tone was full of joy. "We're already very happy to see you, and you've brought so many nice things! We can't accept this!"

Grandma Sun rubbed her hands together, her eyes crinkling into slits with laughter: "Exactly! This ham... I heard it's really expensive! And this milk candy, such precious stuff! What... what are we supposed to say..."

With a smile, Yang Ming folded the emptied canvas bag neatly: "Secretary Sun, Auntie, please don't be so polite. Last time, my second brother's matter was greatly helped by you and Captain Wang. Our whole family will remember this kindness. This is nothing, please accept it."

He spoke sincerely, then pointed to another canvas bag: "This one is for Captain Wang. I'll have to trouble Secretary Sun to give me some pointers later, and I'll deliver it to him."

"Oh my, you even brought some for the Yuan army? You've thought of everything!" Sun Degui exclaimed, feeling even more pleased. He thought it was rare to find someone as young as Yang Guangming who was so experienced and thoughtful in his work.

He turned to his wife and said, "Old woman, don't just stand there, put all this away, quickly kill a chicken and cook some of our best dishes! Guangming has come all this way, he must have a meal at home!"

Grandma Sun quickly said "Yes," and nimbly carried the things on the kang table to the cabinet and put them away, her face beaming with joy.

Yang Guangming quickly declined, "Secretary Sun, Auntie, don't bother! I just came to sit for a while and see you two. I won't eat, so as not to trouble you..."

"What kind of talk is that!" Sun Degui glared, feigning displeasure. "When you get to my house, do you think you can leave on an empty stomach? Are you looking down on your grandpa? You have to eat before you leave! Besides, as for Yuan Jun's share, I'll just have my grandson run an errand to get him over. That way, you can meet him and save you the trouble of making another trip!"

As he spoke, he shouted out the window, "Little Stone! Little Stone! Where have you been running off to?"

As soon as he finished speaking, a seven or eight-year-old boy with a chubby face ran in from outside. His cheeks were red from the cold, and he looked curiously at the stranger on the kang (a heated brick bed).

"Go! Run to your Grandpa Wang's house and tell him that Uncle Yang from Shanghai is here and is at my house. Tell him to come over for a drink right away!" Sun Degui ordered.

The little boy said "Hey," turned around, and ran out.

Sun Degui then smiled and said to Yang Guangming, "Look how convenient this is. Yuan Jun's house is just down the street, just around the corner."

Unable to refuse such hospitality, Yang Guangming smiled and agreed, saying, "Then I'll have to trouble you and your aunt."

"What trouble! I'm overjoyed!" said Grandma Sun, already wearing an apron, as she hurried out the door to catch chickens in the yard.

Sun Degui poured two bowls of hot water for Yang Guangming and Yang Xiangmei, then took out his pipe and handed it to Yang Guangming: "Want a puff?"

Yang Guangming waved his hand and smiled, "Thank you, Secretary Sun, but I don't know how to do that."

Sun Degui didn't force him. He lit a pot himself, took a satisfying drag, and started talking as soon as the smoke began to swirl around him.

"Guangming, how is your second brother's leg injury recovering after he went back? Has he been left with any problems?" he asked with concern.

Yang Guangming nodded: "Thank you for your concern. He's recovering quite well. The medical conditions in Shanghai are better after all. He's had rehabilitation therapy, and now you can't tell anything when he walks. It's just that he occasionally feels a little sore on rainy days, so he can't do too much physical labor. But he's working in a factory now, and the work isn't tiring, which is good."

"That's good! That's good!" Sun Degui nodded repeatedly, looking relieved. "What a relief! We were so scared back then... By the way, I heard from your sister that he got married?"

"Yes, the wedding was held this May Day." Yang Guangming smiled. "My second sister-in-law is a very nice person, she's also a local, and she took very good care of my second brother."

"Good, good! You've settled down and started a family, that's wonderful!" Sun Degui was genuinely happy, then looked at Yang Xiangmei, "Teacher Xiangmei is doing well here too. She's hardworking, the children all like her, and everyone in the village, adults and children alike, respects her."

Yang Xiangmei felt a little embarrassed by the praise and lowered her head slightly.

Yang Guangming chimed in, "Yes, it's all thanks to Secretary Sun and Captain Wang for their usual care. My second sister is gentle and lives far from home, so with you two looking after her, our family feels much more at ease."

“It’s only right, it’s only right. Teacher Xiangmei is an educated person who has nurtured the next generation for our village, so it’s only right that we take care of her,” Sun Degui said sincerely.

As they were talking, Wang Yuanjun's booming voice came from outside the door: "Old Party Secretary! I heard we have a distinguished guest? Comrade Yang from Shanghai is here?"

The curtain was lifted, and Wang Yuanjun walked in with a hearty smile on his face.

He spotted Guangming on the kang (heated brick bed) at a glance and immediately strode forward, extending his rough, calloused hand: "Brother Guangming! It really is you! When did you arrive? Why didn't you tell me beforehand!"

Yang Guangming quickly got off the kang (a heated brick bed) and shook hands with him: "Captain Wang, I just arrived. I came to see my second sister, and also to see you and Secretary Sun."

"Good, good! Good to see you here!" Wang Yuanjun shook Yang Guangming's hand vigorously, appearing unusually enthusiastic.

His gaze also fell upon the equally bulging canvas bag by the edge of the kang (a heated brick bed), and he immediately understood, his smile growing even brighter.

Sun Degui laughed from the side, "Yuan Army, Comrade Guangming hasn't forgotten you. He even brought you a gift, just like the one for me!" He gestured to the canvas bag.

Wang Yuanjun's face immediately lit up with a smile, but he kept saying politely, "Oh dear! I can't accept this! It's too much trouble! Brother Guangming, you're so kind!"

Yang Guangming handed him the canvas bag: "Captain Wang, this is just a small token of my appreciation. Please don't find it offensive. We owe you and Secretary Sun a lot for your help last time."

Wang Yuanjun took the heavy canvas bag, saying "I can't accept this" and "You're too kind," but he took it steadily, and he couldn't hide the joy on his face.

At this moment, Aunt Sun led in a woman in her thirties, wearing a headscarf and with a robust build, and introduced her, "This is my eldest daughter-in-law, she came to lend a hand."

He then said to his daughter-in-law, "Go and boil some water, kill the fattest old hen, and go to the cellar to get a head of sauerkraut. Your third uncle just caught two big fish, so go to his house and borrow one to stew for Comrade Guangming."

The woman readily agreed, glanced curiously at Yang Guangming, and then followed Aunt Sun to the outer room to get busy.

Yang Xiangmei also stood up: "Auntie, sister-in-law, let me help you." With that, she followed them out.

There were three men left in the room. Sun Degui invited Wang Yuanjun to sit on the kang (a heated brick bed).

Wang Yuanjun carefully placed the canvas bag at the end of the kang (a heated brick bed), took off his shoes, climbed onto the kang, rubbed his hands together, and said with a smile, "Now that's great, the three of us can have a good drink! Old Party Secretary, bring out your two bottles of good wine!"

"You're always eyeing my little treasures!" Sun Degui laughed and cursed, but still got up and took out two bottles of baijiu from the back of the cabinet. Judging from the label, they looked like local small distilleries. "These are the only two bottles left. Let's finish them off today."

Yang Guangming quickly said, "Secretary Sun, Captain Wang, just drink a little less, as long as it's the gesture. The main problem is that I can't hold my liquor, and I'm afraid it will interfere with important business."

"Don't worry, I won't drink much. We know your alcohol tolerance, don't we?" Sun Degui waved his hand.

Soon, the sounds of pots and pans clattering, fire crackling, and women talking busily came from the outer room.

Inside the room, three men sat around a kang table, sipping spicy liquor over a plate of fried soybeans and a plate of pickled vegetables, and gradually began to talk more.

The conversation naturally shifted from Yang Guangyao's recovery from his injuries and his work situation to the purpose of Yang Guangming's trip.

"Guangming, did you come to the Northeast on a business trip or specifically to see Xiangmei?" Sun Degui asked casually, taking a sip of his wine.

Yang Guangming replied, "I'm mainly here on a business trip to Harbin. There's some business at the factory. It just so happens that it's not far, so I stopped by to see my second sister."

"Oh, a business trip? Official business is important." Sun Degui nodded, indicating his understanding. He exchanged a glance with Wang Yuanjun.

Wang Yuanjun was more straightforward. He picked up a soybean, popped it into his mouth, and chewed it with a crunching sound. After hesitating for a moment, he still asked, "Brother Guangming, this time when you came...didn't Teacher Xiangmei talk to you about her own affairs?"

Yang Guangming remained expressionless and asked in return, "What does Captain Wang mean?"

Sun Degui picked up the conversation, his tone becoming even more candid: "Guangming, we're all family here, so I'll be frank. Teacher Xiangmei is a good girl, highly educated and with a good temperament. Do you know about her and Luo Xingbang... their relationship?"

He carefully observed Yang Guangming's expression, as if trying to discern something from it.

Yang Guangming hesitated for a moment, realizing that at this point, further avoidance would only seem insincere.

He sighed softly and nodded: "To be honest, my second sister mentioned it in her letter. Besides visiting her, I also wanted to take the opportunity to learn more about Luo Xingbang's situation. After all, my previous understanding was too one-sided and not in-depth enough."

He spoke very skillfully, both acknowledging his knowledge and stating his position of "investigating".

Upon hearing this, Sun Degui and Wang Yuanjun immediately perked up.

"Hey! Brother Guangming, you know it all too well!" Wang Yuanjun slapped his thigh, his voice booming, "Xingbang, that kid, is an absolute gem! In the two years he's been in the village, he's been honest, hardworking, and kind-hearted! He's got everyone on his side!"

Sun Degui nodded in agreement, his tone quite certain: "Yuan Jun is right. Luo Xingbang's family is from the county, both his parents are cadres, so his family background is impeccable."

He himself performed exceptionally well when he was working in our village; he was hardworking and never tried to be clever.

Last month, I happened to be recruiting workers in the county, so I went back to the county's lumber mill and got a stable job. Now I'm a formal apprentice, and my future looks bright!

He paused, then continued to speak well of Luo Xingbang: "He is truly good to Teacher Xiangmei! Every few days he would come back from the county to help Xiangmei fetch water, chop firewood, and do repairs."

Everyone in our village says that Teacher Xiangmei has found a wonderful partner who truly cares for her!

Wang Yuanjun quickly added, "Most importantly, Xingbang's family is very satisfied with Xiangmei! They've already said that as soon as the two of them get engaged, they'll immediately try to find someone to pull strings and get Xiangmei a job in the county!"

This is incredible news! If it really works out, Xiangmei can leave the countryside and start receiving government-supplied grain rations! So many educated youths dream of this kind of good fortune!

The two of them went on and on, praising Luo Xingbang and his family to the skies, their words filled with approval and encouragement for the marriage.

Yang Guangming listened quietly, a polite smile on his face, nodding occasionally, but not in a hurry to express his opinion.

After the two had finished speaking, he slowly said, "Hearing what you two leaders have said, Luo Xingbang does sound quite good. My second sister is all alone here, and having a reliable person to take care of her makes our family feel much more at ease."

Upon hearing this, Sun Degui and Wang Yuanjun both smiled with relief, feeling that Yang Guangming seemed to have been persuaded.

However, Yang Guangming changed the subject and became cautious: "However, marriage is a major life event, after all, it concerns Second Sister's lifelong happiness."

There are some specific matters that I would like to understand in person with Comrade Luo Xingbang, and even his family, to be on the safe side.

For example, how does his family plan to arrange for my second sister to return to the city for work? What specific channels are involved? How long will it take? These things need to be concretely planned.

He looked at Sun Degui and earnestly requested, "Secretary Sun, you are a respected and respected senior leader in the village. Could you please help me find someone to send a message to Luo Xingbang, asking him to return to the village as soon as possible? I would like to talk to him in person."

It's definitely more convenient and formal for you to have someone relay the message than for my second sister to do it herself.

Upon hearing this, Sun Degui immediately patted his chest and assured her, "No problem! It's only right! Since the bride's family is here, the son-in-law definitely has to come and meet them! Leave it to me!"

He turned his head and shouted out the window, "Little Stone! Little Stone! Where did you run off to again?"

Then that chubby-faced little grandson ran in again.

“Go to your third uncle’s house and tell him that Ms. Xiangmei’s younger brother from Shanghai has come. Tell him to ride his bike to the county’s lumber mill first thing tomorrow morning and tell Luo Xingbang to make sure he takes leave and comes back tomorrow! Say it’s something important!”

The grandson seemed to understand but not quite, yet he still responded loudly with "Yes!" and ran off again. Sun Degui's eldest daughter-in-law, worried that he might not have explained clearly, followed him.

Sun Degui smiled and said to Yang Guangming, "Don't worry, Guangming. The third brother is fast on his feet. He'll ride his bike to the county to deliver the message first thing tomorrow morning. Xingbang is a sensible boy. He'll definitely come back as soon as he receives the message."

"Thank you so much, Secretary Sun! You've solved a huge problem for me!" Yang Guangming quickly expressed his gratitude, raising his wine bowl. "I'd like to toast you and Captain Wang to thank you both for your kindness!"

"Don't be so polite! We're all family!" Sun Degui and Wang Yuanjun happily raised their bowls, the three clinked them together, and each took a big gulp. The spicy liquor made the atmosphere even more lively.

Just then, Aunt Sun's voice came from the outer room: "Husband, the dishes are ready, let's set the table!" "Come, come! Let's eat and chat!" Sun Degui enthusiastically made arrangements.

Wang Yuanjun and Yang Guangming helped move the kang table to the middle.

Grandma Sun, her daughter-in-law, and Yang Xiangmei came in carrying large plates and small bowls.

The dishes were very plentiful: a large pot of steaming, fragrant mushroom and chicken stew; a large bowl of braised river fish in soy sauce, with plump fish meat and rich sauce; a plate of golden and shiny scrambled eggs; a plate of stir-fried green peppers; and two small dishes of cold appetizers to accompany drinks.

In this ordinary farmhouse in Northeast China, this is already the highest standard of hospitality for distinguished guests.

"Oh, Auntie, Sister-in-law, this is too much! You've gone to so much trouble!" Yang Guangming said hurriedly.

"No trouble at all! No trouble at all! Just enjoy your meal!" Aunt Sun smiled broadly, wiping her hands with her apron.

The women didn't sit at the kang table, so Aunt Sun moved a small table to the outer room, picked out some vegetables, and the three of them sat around it to eat.

Sun Degui placed a large chicken leg in each of Yang Guangming's and Wang Yuanjun's bowls, and then poured himself a full glass of wine.

"Come on! Guangming! Yuanjun! Start eating! Don't be shy! Make yourselves at home!" he greeted them warmly.

Yang Ming was indeed hungry, so he stopped being polite and picked up his chopsticks to eat. The chicken was stewed until tender and flavorful, the mushrooms were fresh and fragrant, and the glass noodles had soaked up the broth, making them smooth and delicious.

During the meal, the three continued drinking and chatting. The topic was no longer limited to Yang Guangming and his sister, but also included the village's harvest, this year's weather, and some other trivial matters.

Yang Guangming would occasionally share his observations of the South and interesting things happening in the city, which amazed Sun Degui and Wang Yuanjun, who listened with great interest.

The meal lasted nearly two hours. Two bottles of wine were empty, and Sun Degui and Wang Yuanjun were both slightly tipsy. They became more talkative, repeatedly praising Luo Xingbang and praising the happiness of the marriage.

Yang Guangming listened with a smile most of the time, occasionally echoing a few words, but he had his own calculations in his heart.

By the time we finished eating, it was completely dark.

Yang Xiangmei helped Grandma Sun and her daughter-in-law clean up the dishes.

Seeing that it was getting late, Yang Guangming got up to say goodbye: "Secretary Sun, Auntie, Captain Wang, we've really troubled you all today. It's getting late, we should go back."

"Oh, sit a little longer! Have some tea to sober up!" Aunt Sun urged.

"No, Auntie, I have things to do tomorrow. My second sister has to teach the children tomorrow," Yang Guangming politely declined.

Seeing that he couldn't persuade him to stay, Sun Degui put on his shoes and got off the kang (a heated brick bed): "Alright, then I won't force you to stay. Guangming, don't worry, I'll definitely deliver the message to you. When Xingbang comes back, I'll have him go directly to the school to find you."

"Okay, thank you very much, Secretary Sun." Yang Guangming thanked him again.

Wang Yuanjun, carrying his heavy gift, also said goodbye with satisfaction.

The elderly couple, Mr. and Mrs. Sun, escorted the group all the way to the gate of the courtyard.

"It's dark on the road, walk slowly!" Aunt Sun reminded her.

"I understand, Auntie, please go back inside!" Yang Xiangmei replied.

After saying goodbye to Secretary Sun's family, Wang Yuanjun and Yang Guangming and his siblings walked together for a while.

"Brother Guangming, this drink was really enjoyable today! We'll have to drink again next time!" Wang Yuanjun patted Yang Guangming's shoulder, slightly drunk.

"Of course, of course. Captain Wang, please take care too," Yang Guangming replied with a smile.

At a fork in the road, Wang Yuanjun hummed a little tune, carrying gifts, and walked contentedly toward his home.

Yang Guangming and Yang Xiangmei walked back the way they came towards the primary school.

The village was quiet, with only a few sporadic barks from dogs.

"Little brother, thank you so much for today," Yang Xiangmei said softly, her voice filled with gratitude. She knew that her brother's actions today were all to support her and pave the way for her future.

Yang Guangming shook his head: "We're family, no need for thanks. As long as you're happy, that's all that matters."

He paused, his tone becoming more serious: "Second Sister, you heard what Secretary Sun said. Luo Xingbang should be back tomorrow or the day after. At that time, I will have a formal talk with him as a member of your family. There are some things I need to clarify, so you need to be prepared."

Yang Xiangmei's heart tightened slightly, and she nodded: "Yes, I know. Xingbang... he's really a good person..."

“I know he’s a good person,” Yang Guangming interrupted her, his tone calm but firm. “But being a good person can’t put food on the table. There are many practical issues that need to be discussed openly. This is not only being responsible to you, but also to him.”

“I understand,” Yang Xiangmei replied softly.

The siblings stopped talking and walked silently in the moonlight, each lost in their own thoughts.

Upon returning to the primary school, Yang Xiangmei greeted Teacher Zhou.

Yang Xiangmei's dormitory only had one single bed. She was a little embarrassed: "Little brother, why don't you sleep here tonight? I'll go and squeeze in with Teacher Zhou."

“Okay.” Yang Guangming nodded without refusing. He knew this was the best arrangement at the moment.

Yang Xiangmei gave a few more instructions and then went to the dormitory next door.

After seeing his second sister off, Yang Guangming closed the door and locked it.

He walked to the window, looked out at the quiet village under the moonlight and the dark mountain outlines in the distance, and let out a long breath.

The day's running around, dealing with people, and talking left him feeling a little tired, but his mind was unusually clear.

He took off his coat, blew out the kerosene lamp, lay down, closed his eyes, and listened to the howling wind outside the window, his thoughts gradually settling down.

The next day, Yang Guangming woke up very early.

In the early summer mornings of Northeast China, it gets light very early.

He got dressed, tiptoed to open the door, and found that his second sister was already up, with smoke billowing from the kitchen chimney, clearly making breakfast.

"Why are you up so early?" Yang Guangming walked over.

"I'm used to it." Yang Xiangmei smiled, her face flushed with the morning glow. "I'll cook you some millet porridge and make you some flatbread."

Yang Guangming picked up another broom and helped sweep the yard.

Breathing in the cool air invigorates the spirit.

Breakfast was simple: golden millet porridge, cornbread, and a small dish of pickled vegetables.

The siblings ate quietly. Yang Guangming could sense that the second sister was somewhat absent-minded, as if she was waiting for something.

Yang Guangming knew perfectly well that she was waiting for Luo Xingbang.

The morning passed quickly.

After lunch, Yang Xiangmei went to class. Yang Guangming remained in the dormitory, took out his book and started reading, patiently waiting.

Time passed slowly. The village was quiet, with only the sound of students reading aloud coming from the primary school.

Around two o'clock, Yang Guangming heard the sound of a bicycle bell and hurried footsteps coming from outside the yard.

Soon, there was a knock on the dormitory door, followed by Luo Xingbang's voice, visibly tense and breathless: "Xiangmei? Is Xiangmei here? Has Brother Guangming arrived?"

Yang Guangming put down his book, took a deep breath, and went to open the door.

Outside the door, Luo Xingbang was pushing his old-fashioned bicycle, with a net bag hanging on the handlebars, which seemed to contain canned fruit or something similar.

He had clearly rushed back; his forehead was beaded with sweat, his face bore the marks of travel, and his lips were somewhat chapped.

Seeing the sunlight streaming through the open door, Luo Xingbang became even more nervous. He instinctively straightened his back and forced a somewhat awkward smile: "Brother Guangming... it really is you! I received the message from the village this morning and immediately asked for leave to come back!"

His gaze swept quickly behind Yang Guangming, seemingly searching for Yang Xiangmei's figure.

Yang Guangming's face was expressionless, but his tone was calm yet firm: "Comrade Luo Xingbang, you've arrived. My second sister is in class. Please come in, let's talk."

He stepped aside to make way for the doorway.

Luo Xingbang quickly said "Hey," propped up his bicycle, picked up the net bag, and followed Yang Guangming somewhat helplessly into the cramped dormitory.

Yang Guangming pointed to the only chair in the room: "Sit down."

He himself sat on the edge of the bed.

Luo Xingbang sat down as instructed, placing his hands on his knees and sitting upright like a primary school student waiting for a scolding from his teacher. He placed the net bag beside his feet, appearing somewhat reserved.

Yang Guangming didn't rush to speak, calmly observing the young man before him.

Compared to the honest and simple educated youth I met last time, Luo Xingbang in front of me seemed thinner and darker, with more traces of social experience on his face, but his eyes were still sincere, and he even seemed more honest because of his nervousness.

The air between the two seemed to freeze, filled with a silent pressure.

Luo Xingbang felt a little uncomfortable under her gaze. His Adam's apple bobbed, and he broke the silence first, his tone ingratiating: "Brother Guangming, when...when did you arrive? Was the journey smooth? Have you...have you eaten? How about...how about we go to the state-run restaurant in the county? It's on me..."

"No need, I just ate." Yang Guangming interrupted him casually and got straight to the point, "Comrade Luo Xingbang, you probably guessed why I came here. It's mainly about my second sister and your matter."

His tone was very formal, carrying a sense of caution and distance characteristic of a member of the bride's family.

Luo Xingbang's heart leaped into his throat, and he hurriedly nodded, "Yes, yes, I know. Xiangmei and I... we are truly in love..."

“Sincerity is certainly important.” Yang Guangming interrupted him again, his gaze sharp, “But you can’t live a life solely on sincerity. There are some practical issues that we must discuss face-to-face.”

He leaned forward slightly and emphasized, "First of all, on behalf of my parents and family, I need to make it clear to you that the family is actively working on my second sister's return to the city."

By next year at the latest, the policy will definitely be relaxed, and educated youth like her who have been sent to the countryside for many years and have performed well will have a very high chance of returning to the city.

In fact, through certain connections, this process might be faster.

I can tell you with absolute certainty that my family has already pulled some strings. If we just wait patiently for a year to a year and a half, my second sister will definitely be able to return to Shanghai.

He stared intently into Luo Xingbang's eyes, not missing a single change in his expression: "In other words, my second sister has every opportunity, through her own abilities or family connections, to return to Shanghai openly and honestly, and to her parents. She doesn't only have the option of relying on marriage or her in-laws' connections."

These words struck Luo Xingbang like a heavy hammer.

His expression shifted several times in an instant, a mixture of surprise, astonishment, tension, and a barely perceptible hint of panic. He opened his mouth, as if wanting to say something, but didn't know how to begin.

Yang Guangming didn't give him a chance to breathe, continuing to press him, but his tone softened slightly, carrying a hint of inquiry: "So, I'm curious to know, when you and my second sister decided to be together, were you aware of this?"

Luo Xingbang's face was pale. He swallowed hard, his voice hoarse: "I...I know something...Xiangmei mentioned it to me...saying that there might be a way at home...but..."

He raised his head, his eyes filled with urgency and sincerity: "Brother Guangming, I understand what you mean. I know Xiangmei has a chance to go back to Shanghai, back to a big city, and live a better life."

If...if she chooses to go back, I...though I'll miss her, I will never stop her! I'm not that selfish!

His voice grew agitated: "But Xiangmei said... she said she didn't want to wait anymore! Nobody can predict policy changes, and she's afraid the greater the hope, the greater the disappointment! She said... she said she trusts me and is willing to live with me! She said... no matter how good Shanghai is, without me, it's incomplete for her..."

These words were exactly the same as what his second sister had said yesterday. Yang Guangming listened and sighed inwardly, knowing that his second sister was truly determined.

But his expression remained serious: "Fine, since this is her own choice, our family respects her. But..."

His gaze sharpened: "But as her family, we must make sure that her choice is worthwhile and that her future is secure."

What's the current status of your family's promise to help her get a job and return to the city? What are the specific plans? What are the chances of success? How long will it likely take?

A barrage of questions rained down on Luo Xingbang like a machine gun.

More beads of sweat appeared on Luo Xingbang's forehead.

He subconsciously wiped his face with the back of his hand, his eyes flickering, and his tone becoming less certain: "Well... my family is indeed trying to find someone... we've found one of my dad's former bosses, who can still speak on his behalf... As for the specifics... my dad didn't tell me the details of how it works, he just said it would definitely be done... it's just... it might cost some money, and we'll have to wait for an opportunity..."

Yang Guangming's brows furrowed slightly.

Just as he had expected. Things based on "commitment" and "relationship" are full of uncertainty and variables.

"Comrade Luo Xingbang."

Yang Guangming's tone turned cold. "'It can definitely be done' or 'It requires spending money and waiting for an opportunity' are too vague."

How much money should I spend? What opportunity should I wait for? When will the opportunity come? What if the opportunity never comes?

If my second sister waits for a year, two years, or even longer and still can't move to the city, does that mean we have to live apart forever? Or should we just let her stay in the countryside waiting?

His questioning was reasonable, and he emphasized it: "Marrying someone far away is no small matter. The bride's family must be confident and have a clear plan and progress. Otherwise, we cannot entrust our second sister to you with peace of mind."

Luo Xingbang was speechless when asked the question. His face flushed red and then turned pale, and his hands were nervously twisted together.

He clearly knew very little about the specific operational details, or rather, his family did not give him a very clear and reliable answer.

"I...I'll go back and ask my dad...I'll find out more..." he stammered, his voice clearly lacking confidence.

Looking at his expression, Yang Guangming knew that pressing him further wouldn't yield any more information.

He remained silent for a moment, as if thinking, before slowly speaking and stating his conditions in an unquestionable tone: "Comrade Luo Xingbang, since you and my second sister are truly committed to being together, I will be frank with you."

"First, regarding the work-related matters, regardless of the final cost, all expenses will be covered by the Yang family."

Upon hearing this, Luo Xingbang immediately looked up to object: "How can this be! This money should belong to my family..."

"Just hear me out."

Yang Guangming raised his hand to stop him, his tone firm, "You two aren't married yet, and you're doing things for my second sister. There's no reason for your family to pay for it."

This money must be paid by our family. That way, my second sister can hold her head high when she marries into your family, and won't feel like she owes you a huge favor or is inferior because of her job.

His words were firm and resounding, full of profound concern for his sister's long-term future.

Luo Xingbang was stunned; he clearly hadn't considered this possibility. He opened his mouth, wanting to refute, but then felt that Yang Guangming's words made sense, and for a moment he didn't know how to respond.

Yang Guangming continued with his second condition: "Secondly, you can only get your marriage certificate after my second sister's job is officially settled in the county and her household registration is transferred there."

Luo Xingbang readily agreed to this: "No problem! It's only right! We'll definitely have to wait until Xiangmei arrives in town before we talk about it!"

“Okay.” Yang Guangming nodded, his expression softening. “Since you agree, let’s do it this way. When you get back, talk to your family as soon as possible and find out the specific channels for getting the job, the steps that need to be taken care of, and the approximate costs. I hope to have a clear answer before I leave.”

He paused, then added, "Before I leave Northeast China, I'll definitely meet with your parents. If by then, I'm 80-90% certain about the job and residency issues, or even if things are already settled, then it will be more natural to meet and discuss your marriage. Don't you agree?"

Luo Xingbang nodded vigorously, "Yes! Yes! Brother Guangming, you're right! I'll go back and urge my dad to find out as soon as possible! I'll definitely give you a definite answer before you leave!"

His attitude was very positive, as if he had found a direction to strive for.

Yang Guangming looked at him, knowing that today's conversation had basically achieved its purpose. It had both made her family's position and bottom line clear, exerted pressure, and provided a clear path and requirements.

The rest depends on the sincerity and ability of Luo Xingbang's family.

Just then, the school bell rang and the children's noise came from outside.

Soon, the dormitory door was pushed open, and Yang Xiangmei walked in. She was taken aback when she saw the two people in the room, especially Luo Xingbang's tense yet relieved expression, and her eyes were questioning.

Yang Guangming stood up, his tone returning to its usual gentleness: "Second sister, get out of class is over? I had a chat with Brother Xingbang, and we basically reached some consensus."

He turned to Luo Xingbang: "Brother Xingbang, shall we leave it at that for now? You should go back and make the communication as soon as possible. If you have any news, please tell my second sister or me as soon as possible."

Luo Xingbang quickly stood up and said repeatedly, "Okay, okay! I'll go back right now! I'll go ask right now!" He then looked at Yang Xiangmei with a complicated expression, filled with apology and determination, "Xiangmei, I'll go first. Wait for my news."

Yang Xiangmei nodded and saw him to the door.

Luo Xingbang pushed his bicycle and hurriedly left the primary school. His back view looked somewhat rushed, yet full of energy.

Yang Guangming watched his figure disappear at the end of the dirt road in the village and let out a soft sigh.

The initial discussions conveyed our stance and requirements. Now, we simply await their response.

He turned around and saw his second sister looking at him uneasily.

He smiled, his tone becoming more relaxed: "We've finished talking. Nothing serious. Let's wait and see what his family says."

Yang Xiangmei seemed to want to say something, but in the end she just nodded: "Hmm...you arrange it, I won't bother." (End of Chapter)