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

After leaving Director Huo's house, Yang Guangming and Yang Xiangmei walked on the dirt road back to Kaoshantun.

The afternoon sun shone through the gaps in the branches of the poplar trees along the road. Although it was still intense, the two felt as if a clear spring was flowing through their hearts, making them feel cheerful and bright, and their steps were exceptionally light.

Yang Guangming glanced at his second sister beside him and saw a smile on her lips and a long-lost gleam in her eyes. He couldn't help but feel gratified.

He deliberately slowed his pace to match Yang Xiangmei's, and the siblings walked side by side in tacit understanding.

The cornfields by the roadside are already taller than a person, their emerald green leaves rustling in the breeze, as if they too are softly singing for their good fortune.

The distant, rolling green hills, set against the backdrop of blue sky and white clouds, appear even more lush and vibrant.

When you arrive near Kaoshantun, you'll occasionally see villagers carrying farm tools walking by from the opposite side. They'll stop and greet you, curiously taking a second look at this young man from the big city.

Yang Guangming responded politely, neither overly enthusiastic nor impolite. Yang Xiangmei lowered her head slightly, showing a hint of shyness, but her back remained ramrod straight, a habit cultivated from years of teaching.

Yang Xiangmei was still somewhat dazed, and said with emotion, "Thanks to you, little brother. With this job, I really won't have anything to worry about after I get married. It's so good to have you helping me!"

"Don't talk nonsense." Yang Guangming gently interrupted her, "You are my second sister, if I don't help you, who will I help? Besides, this is also because you have worked hard. If Director Huo didn't value you as a down-to-earth and hardworking person, he wouldn't have asked you to help."

Even so, Yang Xiangmei knew in her heart that if it weren't for her younger brother's ability to befriend someone like Director Huo, no matter how hard she worked, it would be of no use. She glanced at her now mature and steady younger brother beside her, feeling both proud and grateful.

As they walked and talked, they could see the low mud-brick houses of Kaoshantun before they knew it.

When we got back to Kaoshantun Primary School, it was about 2:30 pm.

Yang Guangming considered that Luo Xingbang had just started working at the factory and that taking leave too often would have a negative impact. Moreover, the county town was not too far from the village, and it was convenient to travel back and forth by bicycle. So he decided to ask someone to send a message to him, asking him to come over after get off work for a detailed discussion.

He thought of Secretary Sun's clever grandson, "Little Stone," and the warm and straightforward third son of the Sun family. Entrusting this matter to the Sun family was the most appropriate and also seemed more formal.

The siblings didn't return to their dormitory; instead, they went directly to Secretary Sun's house at the east end of the village.

The Sun family's courtyard was more spacious than that of ordinary commune members. The courtyard was enclosed by mud walls, and there were several jujube trees planted in the courtyard. At this time of year, the trees were laden with fruit, and the branches were bent low with the red and green jujubes.

Mr. and Mrs. Sun Degui had just finished dinner and were sitting under the jujube tree in the yard, enjoying the cool air and chatting while fanning themselves with palm-leaf fans. When they saw Yang Guangming and his sister visiting, they warmly invited them into the house.

Yang Guangming smiled and politely declined, then stood at the gate of the courtyard and explained his purpose: "Secretary Sun, Auntie, I'm sorry to bother you. I would like to trouble your third son to make another errand and deliver a message to Luo Xingbang at the county timber factory, asking him to come to the village after get off work if he has time, as there is something important to discuss."

Upon hearing this, Sun Degui immediately shouted into the house, "Third brother! Come out for a moment!"

The third son of the Sun family stepped forward in response. He was a man in his late twenties, wearing a t-shirt, with a sturdy build and a smile on his face.

"Dad, what's wrong?"

"Take your bike and go to the county's timber factory again. Find Luo Xingbang and tell him that Comrade Yang from Shanghai is looking for him. Tell him to come to the village after get off work; it's urgent," Sun Degui instructed.

The third son of the Sun family readily agreed: "Okay! I'll go right now!" He turned around and pushed the old bicycle in the yard. Although the bicycle was a bit old, it was polished to a shine, showing how much its owner cherished it.

Yang Guangming quickly thanked him, "Third Brother, I'm so sorry to trouble you again."

"It's nothing! It'll be over in a minute! Comrade Yang, you're too kind!" The third son of the Sun family smiled憨厚ly, lifted his leg, got on his bicycle, the bell jingled, and soon he was on the dirt road.

After the matter was settled, Yang Guangming and Yang Xiangmei thanked them again and returned to their primary school dormitory.

The small teachers' dormitory seemed different to Yang Xiangmei now. Perhaps knowing she was about to leave, she looked around the little house she had lived in for a year, her gaze filled with a touch of nostalgia.

During the wait, Yang Xiangmei was too excited to calm down. She would tidy up the already tidy room for a while, and then take out the new watch and caress it.

Yang Guangming was relatively calm, taking out a book he carried with him and flipping through it, but his eyes kept glancing out the window. He knew his second sister couldn't calm down, so he would occasionally try to start a conversation with her to distract her.

"Second sister, once you've settled down at the county hospital, take some time to learn nursing skills. It's always good to have an extra skill; who knows, you might have a chance to switch jobs in the future," Yang Guangming said casually.

Yang Xiangmei was taken aback for a moment, then her eyes lit up: "Can I do it?"

“Why not?” Yang Guangming laughed. “You’re only in your early twenties, still young. Besides, you have a high school education, so you learn quickly. Since Director Huo appreciates you and you’ve shown ambition, he’ll definitely give you a chance.”

These words were like a seed, taking root and sprouting in Yang Xiangmei's heart. She had originally been content with just having this job and had never considered any other possibilities. But after her brother's suggestion, she suddenly felt that her future path seemed much broader.

As dusk settled, wisps of smoke rose from the chimneys of every household in the village. The schoolyard was quiet, save for a few sparrows chirping under the eaves as they returned to their nests.

Finally, as dusk settled, the familiar sound of a bicycle bell and hurried footsteps came from outside the courtyard.

"Xiangmei? Brother Guangming?" Luo Xingbang's urgent and slightly panting voice rang out from outside the door.

Yang Xiangmei practically jumped up to open the door.

Outside the door, Luo Xingbang was pushing his bicycle, his forehead covered in fine beads of sweat, his face showing obvious anxiety and worry.

In the afternoon, he received a message from the third son of the Sun family, saying that Yang Guangming had something important to discuss with him and that he must go to Kaoshantun after get off work.

He was lost in thought the whole way, fearing that Yang Guangming was dissatisfied with his family or that something had gone wrong with his marriage. He rode very fast, his heart constantly in his throat.

"Xingbang, you're here. Come in quickly." Yang Xiangmei smiled with relief when she saw him and hurriedly invited him into the house.

Yang Guangming also stood up and greeted him with a smile, "Brother Xingbang, are you off work? You must be tired from the journey. Have some water and rest." He picked up the enamel mug on the table and poured water for Luo Xingbang.

Luo Xingbang took the water, not even bothering to drink it, and looked anxiously at Yang Guangming: "Brother Guangming, why did you call me here so urgently? What happened?" His gaze swept back and forth between Yang Guangming and Yang Xiangmei's faces, trying to find some clues.

Seeing Xingbang's nervous expression, Yang Guangming couldn't help but laugh: "Brother Xingbang, don't be nervous, it's a good thing, a really great thing."

"Good news?" Luo Xingbang was taken aback and looked at Yang Xiangmei with a puzzled expression.

Yang Xiangmei nodded gently, her face filled with barely suppressed joy and a touch of shyness.

Yang Guangming stopped beating around the bush and said directly, "Brother Xingbang, my second sister's job problem has been solved."

"Resolved?" Luo Xingbang didn't react for a moment. "How was it resolved? My parents are still asking around, and they say there's some progress, but we still have to wait for an opportunity..."

“No need to wait for an opportunity.” Yang Guangming said with certainty, “The county hospital’s orthopedics department is short of a medical record administrator. Director Huo personally agreed today that this position can be given to my second sister.”

"County hospital? Medical records administrator?" Luo Xingbang's eyes widened instantly, his mouth slightly agape, his face filled with shock and disbelief. "Director Huo? Is that the Director Huo who helped Guangyao last time?"

“Yes, it’s him.” Yang Guangming nodded. “I took my second sister to visit Director Huo today purely to thank him for his help last time. I didn’t expect that after hearing about my second sister’s situation, Director Huo offered to help her find a formal job. She can work as a medical records administrator under him. It’s an indoor job, clean and respectable, which is perfect for my second sister.”

This tremendous good news came so suddenly and unexpectedly that Luo Xingbang was completely stunned. He stood there blankly for a long time without saying a word, only looking at Yang Guangming and then at Yang Xiangmei, whose face was flushed and whose eyes were shining with happiness.

A huge wave of surprise washed over him, leaving him momentarily at a loss.

These past few days, he's been urging his parents a lot about Yang Xiangmei's job, and he's getting anxious and stressed himself out.

Although his parents tried their best to pull strings, asking for favors is never easy. The procedures are complicated and there are many variables. He wouldn't feel at ease until the matter was settled.

He understood that Yang Xiangmei's job situation was key to whether their marriage could proceed.

Yang Xiangmei's family would never allow their daughter to marry far away without a place to settle down, and her own parents would never agree to him marrying a woman with a rural household registration.

This matter weighed heavily on his mind.

He never expected that Yang Guangming would solve this most difficult problem so quietly this time!

Moreover, it's such a good institution as a county hospital, and the position of medical record administrator is such a respectable one!

This completely exceeded his expectations, even better than the best approach his parents could find!
"This...this...Brother Guangming...I..." Luo Xingbang came to his senses, so excited that he was incoherent, his face flushed red. He grabbed Yang Guangming's hand and held it tightly. "Thank you so much! Really! You...you really helped me a lot! You solved a huge problem! I...I don't know how to thank you enough!"

His voice trembled slightly with excitement, and his eyes even welled up with tears. His surprise and gratitude were heartfelt and utterly sincere.

Yang Guangming could feel the strength and sincerity in his hand. She smiled, pulled her hand away, and patted his arm: "Brother Xingbang, from now on we're all family, no need for formalities. Whoever has the ability should contribute as much as they can, it's only right. Now that Second Sister is well, and your little family is well, we, the family, can rest assured."

He paused, then his tone became more pragmatic: "The main reason I called you here is to tell you this good news, so that you and your family can rest assured and you won't have to go through the trouble of asking for favors anymore, thus avoiding wasting your goodwill."

"Yes, yes, that makes sense! I'll tell my parents this good news when I get back. They'll be so happy to hear it! They'll definitely be very grateful to you!"

Luo Xingbang nodded repeatedly, his face beaming with a bright smile. The huge weight in his heart had finally been lifted, and he felt completely relaxed.

"There's something else I need to ask you." Yang Guangming gestured for him to sit down. "You just finished the procedures for being recruited to work in the city, so you're familiar with the process. Although Director Huo has secured a receiving unit, my second sister's status as an educated youth, as well as the transfer of her household registration and grain ration, still require formal procedures. Are you clear about the specific procedures involved?"

When the conversation turned to specific matters, Luo Xingbang's smile faded, and he became serious: "I know this very well! I just finished running through it!"

He thought it over carefully and said clearly, "The most important thing is the acceptance certificate and work arrangement letter issued by the county hospital. This is the first step, and also the most crucial step. With this, everything else will be much easier."

"Xiangmei's household registration is currently in Kaoshantun, so she is considered a local. With the hospital's acceptance certificate, she first needs to go to the county's educated youth office to complete the work transfer approval procedures. Then she also needs to obtain certificates from both the village committee and the commune. After the educated youth office approves her application, it will issue a transfer order and a letter of introduction for the transfer of her household registration and grain ration.

Then, take these documents back to the Kaoshantun brigade headquarters to complete the relocation procedures and settle work points, grain rations, and so on. Secretary Sun and Captain Wang will definitely handle everything.

The commune also needs to stamp the documents, and finally, you have to go back to the county to register your household at the public security bureau and transfer your grain ration at the grain bureau. At the hospital, the personnel department should also assist with the subsequent onboarding procedures.

Luo Xingbang recounted the process he had gone through in detail. Although there might have been slight differences, the general steps should have been similar.

"It sounds like there are quite a few steps involved," Yang Guangming noted carefully.

“It is a bit complicated, and you have to go to several places.” Luo Xingbang nodded, then enthusiastically suggested, “I’ll take a day off tomorrow and go with you to get it done! I know the way and I know which department to go to, so it will be much faster.”

Yang Guangming thought for a moment and shook his head: "Brother Xingbang, we appreciate your kindness. But you haven't been working for long, and taking frequent leave won't be good. My second sister and I will go to the educated youth office to find out what materials we need to prepare and follow the procedures step by step. It's just a matter of asking more people and making a few more trips. If we really encounter something we can't solve, then we'll ask you for help."

He was very thoughtful and didn't want his own family matters to interfere with Luo Xingbang's work.

Luo Xingbang felt a warmth in his heart, realizing that Yang Guangming was truly considerate of everyone.

Seeing that Yang Ming was adamant, he stopped insisting, but he still patiently went over the details of each step as thoroughly as possible, such as which office to go to, who to find, and what supporting documents might be needed.

Yang Guangming listened attentively, nodding occasionally and silently taking notes. Yang Xiangmei listened carefully as well, her heart filled with both longing for her new life and a touch of trepidation about the unfamiliar job that was about to begin.

After the business was finished, the atmosphere became more relaxed and harmonious.

Yang Xiangmei glanced at the dark sky outside the window and asked softly, "Xingbang, haven't you eaten yet? Why don't you grab something to eat here? I'll make some porridge and a few pancakes."

Her cheeks flushed slightly, carrying a hint of shy anticipation. This was the first time she had offered to invite Luo Xingbang to stay for a meal; although it was just a simple farmhouse meal, it held special significance.

Luo Xingbang looked at Yang Xiangmei with gentle eyes, but still shook his head, his tone apologetic: "Xiangmei, no. I have to go back quickly and tell my parents the good news. They've worried a lot about this, they'll be overjoyed to know. Besides, you have to go to the city tomorrow, so get some rest."

He couldn't wait to share this joy with his family and put his parents at ease.

Yang Guangming understood his feelings and nodded, saying, "Alright, go back early, ride slowly on the road, and be careful."

"Hey! Don't worry, I know this road very well!" Luo Xingbang stood up, his face beaming with a smile, looking radiant.

He then instructed Yang Xiangmei, "Xiangmei, when you go with Brother Guangming to handle some business tomorrow, don't be nervous, just follow the procedures. If anything happens, just let Brother Guangming come to the factory to find me."

"Yes, I know," Yang Xiangmei replied softly, seeing him to the door.

Luo Xingbang pushed his bicycle out of the courtyard gate, straddled the seat, turned around and waved to them. The bicycle bell jingled, and his figure disappeared into the night, but the joy and energy seemed to remain in the courtyard.

After seeing Luo Xingbang off, the siblings had a simple dinner. Yang Xiangmei was still feeling unsettled, both looking forward to and a little nervous about tomorrow's itinerary.

Yang Guangming comforted her, "Don't worry, since Director Huo has agreed, there shouldn't be any problem with the hospital. The educated youth office is just going through the motions. Our materials are complete and comply with the policy, so they won't hold us back. We'll go tomorrow and just play it by ear."

His words always put people at ease. Yang Xiangmei nodded, trying to calm herself down.

That night, Yang Xiangmei did not sleep well, her mind repeatedly imagining the scene of going to handle business the next day, and what it would be like to work at the county hospital in the future.

She recalled the confusion and helplessness she felt when she first arrived in Kaoshantun, the hard days she spent working in the fields, and the innocent smiles of the children when she taught at the primary school. It all seemed like yesterday, yet it was about to become the past.

When the sun shines brightly, one can sleep soundly, conserve energy, and prepare for any situation that may arise tomorrow.

He knew very well that although Director Huo had given his assurances, there would inevitably be some trivial troubles during the process of handling the procedures, and he had to keep a clear head and plenty of energy.

The next morning, just as dawn was breaking, the siblings got up.

Yang Xiangmei specially changed into that brand-new floral shirt, making her look exceptionally energetic and beautiful. She first carefully combed her hair in front of the mirror, tied it into a neat ponytail, and checked the materials she needed to bring several times before she felt a little more at ease.

She first went to greet Teacher Zhou and asked her to look after the class and cover for her. Teacher Zhou readily agreed, and seeing Yang Xiangmei's refreshed appearance and undisguised joy, she asked curiously, "Teacher Yang, is there something happy happening today?"

Yang Xiangmei smiled, two blushes rising on her cheeks: "I have something to do in the city, I'll tell you the details later." She didn't plan to reveal the news too early, after all, things weren't completely settled yet.

After saying goodbye to Teacher Zhou, the siblings once again embarked on the dirt road leading to the county town.

The morning air was exceptionally fresh, and glistening dewdrops clung to the corn leaves by the roadside. The distant mountains were lush and green, promising another fine day.

The two walked briskly, and in less than an hour they could see the outline of the county town. The closer they got to the town, the more nervous Yang Xiangmei became, and her palms even started to sweat.

Yang Guangming noticed her unease and said gently, "Second sister, relax. We're going to do serious business, not thieves. Since Director Huo agreed, there won't be any problems. Just be open and honest, and say what you need to say."

Yang Xiangmei took a deep breath and nodded: "I know, it's just... I can't help being nervous."

“It’s always like this the first time,” Yang Guangming laughed. “Once you’ve worked at the county hospital for a while and seen more of the world, you won’t be like this anymore.”

Arriving at the street where the county's educated youth office was located, it was still early, and the government offices hadn't started work yet. Yang Guangming wasn't in a hurry; he first found a breakfast stall nearby, and he and Yang Xiangmei each ate a bowl of tofu pudding and two fried dough sticks to fill their stomachs. Around eight o'clock, figuring it was about time, the two finally arrived at the entrance of the educated youth office.

This is one of a row of red brick bungalows, with a white sign with black lettering hanging on the doorframe. Several long benches are placed in front of the door, and two or three people are already waiting.

Yang Guangming gestured for Yang Xiangmei to sit on the bench for a moment, then walked to the door, took a deep breath, and knocked.

"Please come in," came the voice of a middle-aged man from inside.

Yang Guangming pushed open the door and entered. The office wasn't large; several filing cabinets stood against the wall, and two desks faced each other. A middle-aged cadre in his forties, wearing glasses, was wiping the desk with a rag, while a younger woman was organizing documents.

"Hello, comrade. I would like to inquire about the procedures for transferring jobs and household registration for educated youth." Yang Guangming spoke humbly.

The middle-aged cadre looked up, adjusted his glasses, and sized him up: "Which commune are you from? What's the situation?"

“Yang Xiangmei is an educated youth from Kaoshantun Commune. She works as a private teacher at Kaoshantun Primary School. The county hospital has agreed to accept her, and she wants to transfer to another job.” Yang Guangming explained the situation concisely.

"The county hospital will accept him?" The middle-aged cadre paused, clearly surprised. The county hospital was a prestigious institution; it was generally difficult for educated youth to get in. "Do you have a certificate of acceptance?"

“There is no written proof yet, but Director Huo of the Orthopedics Department of the County Hospital has personally promised that the position has been reserved. We want to ask what materials we need to prepare first. After completing the formalities, the hospital should issue a formal letter of acceptance,” Yang Guangming explained.

"Director Huo?" The middle-aged cadre hesitated for a moment, seemingly trying to recall who it was, and his attitude became noticeably more serious. "Oh, Director Huo Zhenxing. He nodded, so there shouldn't be any major problems."

He put down the rag and sat back down in his chair: "A formal letter of acceptance and proof of work arrangement from the receiving unit are mandatory and the most important thing. Only with these can we start the approval process."

He took out a piece of paper and wrote as he spoke: "The materials you need to prepare mainly include: the educated youth's transfer application, the acceptance letter from the receiving unit, the certificate of consent to transfer issued by the original brigade, performance appraisal materials, as well as the household registration book and grain ration certificate."

He rattled off seven or eight items that needed to be prepared. Yang Guangming listened attentively, silently taking notes, and then asked a few more questions about the details, such as how to write the performance evaluation and what stamp was required on the brigade's certificate.

The middle-aged cadre saw that he was very knowledgeable about the procedures and that his questions were to the point, so he answered them quite patiently.

Finally, Yang Guangming expressed his gratitude: "Thank you so much, comrade. We'll go back and prepare the materials now. We'll come over immediately to process it as soon as the official acceptance letter from the county hospital arrives."

"Yes, send over all the materials you have prepared. If they meet the policy requirements, we'll process them as soon as possible." The middle-aged cadre nodded and went back to his work.

As I walked out of the educated youth office, Yang Xiangmei immediately came up to me and asked anxiously, "How did it go? Did you get the answers?"

Yang Guangming smiled and said, "I've found out. The process is a bit complicated, but it's all done according to regulations, and there aren't any major obstacles. The key is that we need to complete the formal acceptance procedures at the county hospital and get the acceptance letter first."

"Oh, that's good." Yang Xiangmei breathed a sigh of relief.

"Let's go, let's go to the county hospital to find Director Huo right now." Yang Guangming acted swiftly and decisively, leading his second sister to the county hospital.

Upon arriving at the orthopedic department director's office, they found Director Huo reviewing medical records. Seeing their swift arrival, Director Huo was somewhat surprised, then smiled and asked, "How did it go? Did you get the details from the educated youth office?"

Yang Guangming recounted the details of what he had learned and concluded by saying, "Director Huo, the most crucial thing now is that we need a formal letter of acceptance and proof of work arrangement from the hospital."

Director Huo waved his hand readily: "That's easy. I'll have someone from the personnel department come over right away."

He picked up the internal phone on the table, dialed a number, and said a few words briefly. Not long after, a man in his thirties, wearing a blue Zhongshan suit and looking like an official, came over.

"Director Huo, you wanted to see me?"

"Xiao Liu, this is Comrade Yang Xiangmei. She graduated from high school, has a good education level, and is also a meticulous and reliable person."

"I've already spoken to the hospital, and they've arranged for her to work as a medical records administrator in our department. Please complete the acceptance procedures and issue a formal acceptance letter and work arrangement certificate," Director Huo instructed directly, his tone carrying the authority of a department head.

Comrade Liu had obviously been notified in advance and had no questions. He smiled and nodded to Yang Xiangmei: "Okay, Director Huo. Comrade Yang Xiangmei, please come with me to the personnel department to complete the formalities and fill out a few forms."

Things went much more smoothly than expected. Yang Xiangmei glanced excitedly at her younger brother, then quickly followed Comrade Liu out.

Director Huo said to Yang Guangming, "See, I told you it wasn't that complicated. I can handle the personnel matters in the institute with a simple word."

You should hurry up and prepare the other materials, then submit them to the educated youth office for approval. Once the household registration and grain ration transfers are approved there, they will issue you a letter of introduction; you can then take that to the Public Security Bureau and the Grain Bureau to complete the procedures.

"Thank you so much, Director Huo! You really helped us solve a big problem!" Yang Guangming said sincerely again.

About half an hour later, Yang Xiangmei returned, carrying several forms stamped with a red seal and a formal document.

Her face was flushed with excitement, and her voice trembled slightly: "Little brother, it's all done! This is the acceptance letter and work arrangement notice! Comrade Liu said that once my household registration is transferred, I can officially start working!"

Yang Guangming took the document and examined it carefully. The words were in black and white, and the official seal was clear. He felt completely at ease.

After thanking Director Huo profusely once again, the siblings left the hospital. Seeing that it was still early, Yang Guangming decided to make the most of the day and get the paperwork done for the Kaoshantun brigade.

The two rushed back to Kaoshantun. They found Sun Degui and Wang Yuanjun, explained their purpose, and showed them the acceptance letter from the county hospital.

Sun Degui and Wang Yuanjun were so surprised that they couldn't close their mouths when they saw the acceptance letter stamped with the county hospital's big red seal.

In just two days, Yang Guangming actually got this done! And it was with such a good institution as the county hospital!
The two were utterly impressed by Yang Guangming's energy and methods.

After the initial surprise came genuine joy. Yang Xiangmei was a diligent and honest teacher in the village, and they liked her very much. Now that she had found such a good place, they were naturally happy for her.

"Great news! Fantastic news!" Sun Degui slapped his thigh and laughed. "Teacher Xiangmei, you've escaped rural life and landed a stable job! You're a city dweller now!"

Wang Yuanjun laughed loudly, "That's right! In the future, when we go to the county hospital for treatment, we can ask Comrade Xiangmei for help!" His words made everyone laugh.

The brigade's procedures were completed exceptionally smoothly.

Sun Degui personally drafted a highly praising evaluation of Yang Xiangmei's performance, affixing the brigade headquarters' official seal. He also issued all the necessary documents, including a transfer approval certificate and a grain ration transfer certificate.

Wang Yuanjun was busy helping Yang Xiangmei settle her work points and rations for the year. Everything was handled quickly and efficiently.

Holding the thick stack of documents stamped with the red seal, Yang Xiangmei felt like she was dreaming. In just one day, the most important procedures were almost completed.

The next day, Yang Guangming and Yang Xiangmei returned to the county's educated youth office and submitted all the prepared materials. The middle-aged cadre carefully reviewed the materials, especially noting the official acceptance letter from the county hospital and Director Huo's signature, and efficiently began processing the approval procedures.

Because the application materials were complete, the receiving unit was reputable, the applicant performed well, and the reasons for the transfer were sufficient, the approval process proceeded without any obstacles.

The transfer order and the letter of introduction for the transfer of household registration and grain ration were issued the following afternoon!
Armed with these valuable documents, the siblings practically ran to the county public security bureau and grain bureau. Although they had to queue at each window and complete the necessary procedures, the process went very smoothly thanks to the official letters of introduction and transfer orders.

When Yang Xiangmei's household registration book was stamped with the "relocation" stamp and she received the new relocation permit and grain ration transfer certificate, her hands were trembling slightly.

Finally, they returned to the personnel department of the county hospital, handed over their household registration certificate and grain ration transfer certificate to Comrade Liu for filing, and completed the final onboarding registration.

Comrade Liu told them that the hospital has dormitories, and Director Huo had made special arrangements to arrange a room for Yang Xiangmei.

He took them to see it. It was one of the houses in a row of bungalows. It wasn't big, only eight or nine square meters. It had a single bed, a table, and a chair. Although it was simple, it was clean and tidy. And most importantly, it was Yang Xiangmei's own private space.

Looking at the small house, Yang Xiangmei finally couldn't hold back her tears.

These are tears of joy, tears of bidding farewell to the past, and tears of boundless anticipation for a new life.

In just two days, her life trajectory underwent a dramatic change. Work, household registration, food rations, dormitory… all the key problems of moving to the city were miraculously solved!

Seeing his second sister's excited expression, Yang Guangming felt a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment.

The smooth progress of the matter was inseparable from Director Huo's great help and the solid preparatory work done in the early stages.

The two tidied up their new dormitory and rushed back to Kaoshantun in the afternoon, firstly to retrieve their packed luggage, and secondly to say goodbye and thank Secretary Sun and Captain Wang.

Hearing that Yang Xiangmei had even arranged her dormitory and was about to move out, Sun Degui and Wang Yuanjun were filled with emotion.

Sun Degui immediately said, "Moving is a big deal, how can we let you do it yourselves? Yuanjun, go arrange an oxcart, we'll take Teacher Xiangmei to the county town together tomorrow, it's like our Kaoshantun village is seeing her off."

Wang Yuanjun loudly agreed: "Alright! We must send it! Teacher Xiangmei is a talented person who came from our Kaoshantun!"

The next morning, Wang Yuanjun indeed arrived at the elementary school gate in a bullock cart lined with clean burlap sacks. Sun Degui also arrived early. Yang Xiangmei didn't have much luggage; besides the old wooden box, there were only a few quilts and some personal belongings, more than enough for the bullock cart.

Teacher Zhou and several students who rushed over upon hearing the news came to see him off. The children held Teacher Yang's hand, reluctant to part.

Yang Xiangmei looked at the students she had been teaching for a short time and the place she had stayed in for several years, her eyes reddening, and she urged the children to study hard.

The oxcart slowly drove out of Kaoshantun. Yang Xiangmei sat on the luggage, while Sun Degui and Wang Yuanjun walked beside her to see her off.

Along the way, they encountered many villagers who, upon learning that Yang Xiangmei had been transferred to work at the county hospital, offered their congratulations and cast envious glances their way.

Upon arriving at the county hospital dormitory, everyone hurriedly carried their luggage into the small room. Seeing that Yang Xiangmei had found such a good home, Sun Degui and Wang Yuanjun were genuinely happy.

After everything was settled, Yang Guangming once again offered to treat the two village officials to a meal at their usual restaurant. This time, Sun Degui and Wang Yuanjun did not refuse.

At the dinner table, Yang Guangming ordered several main dishes and also asked for some baijiu (Chinese liquor).

Yang Xiangmei offered tea instead of wine to express her gratitude once again to Secretary Sun and Captain Wang for their care over the years.

Sun Degui and Wang Yuanjun were deeply moved. In just one year, Yang Guangyao had retired from the hospital due to illness and returned to the city, while Yang Xiangmei had been transferred to the county hospital. Both siblings had left Kaoshantun. The changes were truly rapid.

They were genuinely happy for the Yang siblings, and at the same time, they felt even more that Yang Guangming was an amazing young man.

After a hearty meal and drinks, as they were saying goodbye, Sun Degui shook Yang Guangming's hand and said sincerely, "Guangming, when you come to Northeast China on business in the future, be sure to visit Kaoshantun again! Our poor mountain village will always welcome you!"

Wang Yuanjun patted his chest and said, "That's right! Next time you come, we brothers will definitely have a good drink together!"

Yang Guangming also replied emotionally, "Definitely! Secretary Sun, Captain Wang, take care! With you two here in Kaoshantun, I will come again!"

After seeing off the two kind and warm-hearted village officials, Yang Guangming looked at his second sister beside him, whose face was beaming with happiness, and felt a sense of peace in his heart.

He booked a room at the guesthouse and moved some of his luggage, which he didn't need for the time being, from his second sister's dormitory to make her little room more spacious.

The next day, Yang Xiangmei got up early, changed into a clean and tidy outfit, and with a mix of excitement and trepidation, officially reported to the orthopedics department of the county hospital to begin her new job as a medical record administrator.

Director Huo arranged for a senior nurse to mentor her. The work was indeed as Director Huo had said, mainly involving sorting, filing, and searching medical records. It required meticulousness and patience, but the technical difficulty was not high.

Yang Xiangmei quickly got the hang of it, and her colleagues in the department, knowing that she was sent by Director Huo, were all very kind to her.

After work, Yang Guangming, carrying the gifts he had prepared in advance—two pounds of imported chocolate, two packs of biscuits, two pounds of White Rabbit milk candy, and two bottles of honey—and Yang Xiangmei visited Director Huo's house again to express their gratitude.

Director Huo's wife, Aunt Zhao, had received the news in advance and prepared a sumptuous meal: the braised pork was glistening with oil, the stewed fish smelled delicious, and there were also several stir-fried seasonal vegetables, all in generous portions.

The atmosphere at the dinner table was harmonious, like that of family. After drinking a couple of glasses of wine, Director Huo became more talkative, recounting what he had learned about Luo Xingbang's parents over the past few days.

"Xingbang's father works in the county's industrial bureau as the deputy director, which is equivalent to a deputy section chief. In the eyes of people in your big city, that's not a high rank, but in our small county, he's considered a powerful official. He's said to be quite upright, with good work ability and a good reputation."

"His mother works in the neighborhood office. She's an ordinary cadre with little real power, but she's hardworking and very kind. I haven't heard of her having any bad reputation."

Director Huo paused, picked up a piece of food with his chopsticks, and continued, "Generally speaking, the elderly couple has a good reputation among their colleagues and neighbors; they are an honest and upright family. As for their specific temperaments and personalities in daily life, it's not appropriate for outsiders to inquire. But considering they were able to raise such a down-to-earth child as Xingbang, their family atmosphere must have been quite good."

As if remembering something, he added, "Oh, right. Xingbang is the only son in his family, with four older sisters, but they are all married. Even if one of his sisters-in-law is a bit temperamental and doesn't visit her parents' home often after marriage, it doesn't have much of an impact. You should all know that."

Yang Guangming and Yang Xiangmei listened attentively, nodding occasionally. This information matched what they already knew and what they had gleaned from Luo Xingbang, which reassured them further.

Yang Guangming raised his glass to Director Huo: "Director Huo, thank you so much! Not only did you help my second sister find a job, but you also thought of and inquired about these things for us. We really don't know how to repay your kindness!"

Director Huo waved his hand and laughed heartily: "It was nothing, don't mention it. Seeing you young people doing well makes me happy too. Xiangmei, working hard is the best way to repay me."

He then looked at Yang Guangming: "Has the meeting between you and Xingbang's parents been finalized?"

"Not yet, we're planning to schedule a time in the next couple of days," Yang Guangming replied. "Now that my second sister has a job, it'll be more reassuring to meet her and discuss marriage."

“Yes, that makes sense.” Director Huo nodded. “If we meet and have a good talk, I think it should be a good match.”

They enjoyed the dinner very much, and it wasn't until late at night that Yang Guangming and Yang Xiangmei said their goodbyes and left.

Walking back to the hospital dormitory, the night breeze was cool and the sky was full of stars.

Looking at her younger brother who was working so hard for her, Yang Xiangmei felt a surge of gratitude and happiness.

All the major issues seemed to have been settled. Job, household registration, and dormitory were all resolved. The situation with Luo's parents had also been clarified; it sounded like they were from a family with separate household registrations. The future seemed to be clearly laid out before them, full of light and hope.

Yang Guangming's mood also relaxed a lot.

The main purpose of this trip has been more than achieved. Next, he needs to formally meet with Luo Xingbang's parents to discuss the specific details of the marriage. If everything goes smoothly, he can return to Shanghai with peace of mind and report the good news to his parents.

He looked at the clear night sky over Northeast China, let out a long sigh of relief, and his steps became lighter.

The streetlights cast long shadows of the siblings as they walked side by side, discussing their plans for the future, their laughter occasionally drifting in the night breeze.

After taking his second sister back to her hospital dormitory, Yang Guangming sat for a short while before returning to the guesthouse.

Yang Xiangmei paced back and forth in her dormitory, touching her new work ID, still finding it hard to believe that it was all real.

She opened the window and gazed at the night view of the county town. Although it couldn't compare to the prosperity of big cities, it was still warm with the lights of thousands of homes, a stark contrast to the complete darkness of Kaoshantun. (End of Chapter)