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

On Monday morning, Yang Guangming was in the finance department office dealing with a backlog of documents.

The phone rang, and he picked up the receiver casually.

"Hello, this is the finance department."

A soft yet slightly nervous voice came from the other end of the phone; it was Lin Jianyue.

"The light is me."

Yang Guangming immediately recognized her voice, and the corners of his mouth unconsciously turned up, his voice also softening and lowering.

"Jianyue, what's wrong? Is something the matter?"

Many things are indeed inconvenient to discuss over the phone. In this day and age, the content of conversations between two parties on a work phone cannot be completely kept confidential.

Lin Jianyue's voice was soft, carrying a hint of barely perceptible joy and eagerness.

"I just wanted to let you know... I went home last Sunday and already told my parents about us."

Yang Guangming's heart skipped a beat, and he tightened his grip on the receiver slightly, but his tone remained steady.

"Um, what did your uncle and aunt say?"

"They agreed!" Lin Jianyue's voice was light and excited. "They said... they want to meet you. The date is this Sunday, is that alright?"

The anxiety that had been hanging in the air finally subsided, and a sense of relief and joy spread through him. Yang Guangming could even feel his heartbeat quicken a few times—a long-awaited signal.

"Of course, I'm free on Sunday. What time exactly? I'll be there on time."

"Let's meet at Ruikangli at eight o'clock in the morning, and then go to my house for lunch together." Lin Jianyue's voice was still gentle, but she was obviously much more relaxed.

“Okay, I understand. I’ll be there on time at 10 a.m. on Sunday.” Yang Guangming repeated solemnly, as if confirming something extremely important.

"Um... well... I'll hang up now, there are people in the office," Lin Jianyue said softly.

"Okay, go ahead and get busy. See you on Sunday."

See you on Sunday.

After hanging up the phone, Yang Guangming heard a busy tone on the receiver, but he held it for a few seconds before slowly putting it back on the landline.

He took a deep breath, picked up his pen again, and tried to bring his attention back to the report in front of him, but he couldn't suppress the smile on his lips.

The date for meeting the parents has finally been set, and this most important event has finally taken its crucial first step.

He felt as if a weight had been lifted from his heart, and a warm current had flowed into him, making the sunlight outside the window seem even brighter.

He worked with exceptionally high efficiency throughout the morning, quickly tackling most of the backlog of work.

He didn't tell his family the news immediately. If his mother, Zhang Xiuying, knew, she would definitely be caught in a busy state of excitement and anxiety from that moment on, constantly asking about the details, thinking about gifts, and might even suffer from insomnia.

He didn't want his parents to bear the weight of this expectation too early, nor did he want them to ask too many questions or pay too much attention, which would only add unnecessary pressure to himself.

He decided to wait until the meeting yielded a clear result before going home to explain in detail.

A week passed quickly amidst a busy work schedule.

After careful consideration, he prepared two gifts for his visit: two catties of top-quality dried sea cucumber and two catties of authentic Dong'e donkey-hide gelatin.

The gifts weren't many, but they were plentiful and all were nourishing items, showing thoughtfulness without being overly ostentatious. He remembered Lin Jianyue mentioning that her mother wasn't in good health, so this kind of gift would be just right.

Yang Guangming didn't go home on Saturday. He told his family that he had to work overtime on Sunday.

On Sunday morning, Yang Ming got up early, washed up carefully, changed into a clean and crisp white short-sleeved shirt, a pair of dark blue polyester trousers, and shiny leather shoes.

The young man in the mirror is tall and upright, with a handsome face and a calm gaze, exuding a vibrant and upward spirit.

He picked up the net bag containing the gifts and went out the door.

As I boarded the bus, the streets outside the window were quiet on this Sunday morning. A gentle breeze blew in through the window, carrying the coolness of early autumn, which was refreshing.

He got off the bus at the station near Ruikang Lane, and after walking a few steps, he saw Lin Jianyue already waiting at the entrance of the alley.

Today she wore a light floral shirt with a dark long skirt, her hair was softly draped over her shoulders, her face had a faint blush, and her eyes showed both anticipation and a hint of nervousness.

Seeing Yang Guangming approaching, she quickly went to greet him.

"Have you been waiting long?" Yang Guangming asked.

"No, I just came out too." Lin Jianyue shook her head, her gaze falling on the net bag in his hand. "Why are you carrying so much stuff?"

"It's my first time visiting, I can't come empty-handed." Yang Guangming smiled, looking her over. "A little nervous?"

Lin Jianyue nodded honestly, then put on a relaxed smile: "But don't worry, my parents... are very nice. Even nicer than I expected."

The two walked side by side toward the bus stop, and Yang Guangming took the opportunity to ask, "Tell me exactly how good it is, so I can have a better idea."

Mentioning this, Lin Jianyue's eyes crinkled, and her expression became excited.

“I went home last Sunday and told them the truth. They weren’t angry at all; in fact, they were quite happy. They asked me a lot of questions about my situation, such as my job, my family, how we met, and so on.”

She turned her head to look at Yang Guangming, her tone light and cheerful: "Of course I reported your situation truthfully. They were very satisfied with you as a person and with your work. My dad even said that being able to reach this position and level at this age speaks volumes."

Yang Guangming listened attentively, and gradually felt more confident.

"And... what about family?" he asked, voicing his biggest concern. The differences in their family backgrounds remained a lingering worry in his subconscious.

“Oh, this?” Lin Jianyue said casually, “My parents actually think it’s quite good. They said your family is a working-class family, harmonious and well-off, and that’s good enough. They…”

She hesitated for a moment, but decided to tell Yang Guangming her parents' true thoughts, feeling that honesty was better.

"They felt that rather than me marrying into some wealthy and powerful family, where life might be turbulent in the current climate, it would be better to find me an ordinary, down-to-earth family like yours, where peace and tranquility are the most important things. They also specifically asked me to tell you not to feel any pressure, because they value you as a person."

Yang Guangming paused for a moment, then a warm feeling and deep respect welled up in his heart.

He hadn't expected Lin Jianyue's parents to be so open-minded and understanding. Not only did they have no prejudice against each other based on social class, but they were also so considerate and thoughtful towards him. This magnanimity and sincerity completely put his mind at ease.

"Uncle and Aunt...is that really what they said?" he asked, his voice filled with emotion.

"Yes!" Lin Jianyue nodded vigorously. "They also said they would definitely ask around to find out more about your situation, which is what any parent would do. But as long as the information they find out isn't a big problem, they will definitely not object and will even support us."

Yang Guangming smiled; it was a completely relaxed, heartfelt smile.

"That's to be expected. I can withstand scrutiny." His tone was confident and composed.

The September breeze gently caressed my cheeks, carrying a cool breeze and dispelling the last trace of gloom.

The two walked to the bus stop and boarded the bus together.

The bus wasn't crowded, so they found seats side by side. Yang Guangming was very calm, while Lin Jianyue seemed a little nervous.

Seeing this, Yang Guangming comforted him in a low voice: "Don't worry, it's me meeting my future in-laws, why are you nervous? Like you said, your uncle and aunt are very understanding, just be natural, I believe the result will be good."

"Mm." Lin Jianyue nodded, took a deep breath, and tried to relax.

The car drove through the bustling streets, gradually heading towards the military compound. The surrounding scenery became increasingly quiet and orderly.

Guided by Lin Jianyue, they got off the bus at a certain stop. After registering and being questioned by the gatekeeper, the two entered a quiet courtyard shaded by green trees.

Lin Jianyue's home was on the second floor of a small red brick building. She knocked on the door, and footsteps came from inside.

The door opened, and a middle-aged woman with a gentle demeanor and neat attire stood in the doorway, a warm smile on her face. Her gaze fell on Yang Guangming, and she carefully but politely sized him up.

"Mom, we're back," Lin Jianyue called softly, stepping aside to let Yang Guangming enter first.

"Hello, Auntie, I'm Yang Guangming." Yang Guangming bowed slightly, greeted her politely, and handed over the gift in his hand. "It's just a small token of my appreciation."

Gao Jingyi smiled and accepted the gifts: "Oh dear, you child, you came all this way, why did you bring so much stuff? It's too much of a waste. Please come in, please come in."

As Yang Guangming walked into the living room, he found it spacious and bright, decorated in a simple yet elegant style. On the sofa sat a middle-aged man in a military uniform shirt, with a refined face and sharp, steady eyes. He was putting down his newspaper and smiling at Yang Guangming.

"Hello, Uncle." Yang Guangming greeted him immediately.

Lin Weihua stood up. He was tall and, although nearing fifty, his back was ramrod straight, retaining the bearing of a soldier. He smiled and extended his hand: "Comrade Xiaoyang, right? Welcome, welcome, please have a seat."

Yang Guangming stepped forward and shook hands with him in a humble yet assertive manner: "Hello, Uncle, you can just call me Guangming."

"Okay, Guangming, sit down." Lin Weihao gestured for him to sit down, his attitude friendly and natural.

Lin Jianyue, as if presenting a treasure, helped her mother carry the gifts to the coffee table and whispered to Gao Jingyi, "Mom, this was specially prepared for you and Dad by Guangming. He said he heard me mention that you need to take care of your health. These are dried sea cucumbers and donkey-hide gelatin from Dong'e. He asked many friends to help him get them. They are very rare and very good for your health..."

Her words were clearly exaggerated and embellished, her cheeks were slightly flushed, and her eyes were sparkling as she tried hard to give Yang Guangming credit.

Listening to her daughter's words and looking at the item in her hand, Gao Jingyi realized it was indeed a valuable item, but it was a bit too expensive.

Gao Jingyi's smile deepened, and her gaze toward Yang Guangming softened.

"You're so kind, child. Thank you, Guangming."

"Auntie, you're too kind. It's just a small token of my appreciation," Yang Guangming quickly replied.

First impressions are crucial. Yang Guangming was tall and handsome, with a calm and composed demeanor, neither awkward nor frivolous. His polite and thoughtful speech gave Lin Weihao and Gao Jingyi an excellent first impression.

The gifts prepared were indeed thoughtful; they weren't ordinary cigarettes, alcohol, or snacks, but rather tonics tailored to their health conditions, demonstrating their care and sincerity. Although we felt they were a bit too expensive, we truly appreciated their sentiment.

After they sat down, Lin Jianyue poured Yang Guangming a cup of hot tea.

Lin Weihao didn't pry into his family situation like he was checking a household registration. They already knew about it through Lin Jianyue, and asking him about it in person would only seem distant and distrustful.

Instead, he inquired about Yang Guangming's parents' health with great concern, his attitude very friendly, as if they were having a casual chat.

Gao Jingyi also chimed in with a smile, asking about small things in life, such as how busy she was at work and how the food in the cafeteria was.

Yang Guangming answered each question in a calm tone, with a respectful yet generous attitude.

The conversation gradually expanded, from the factory's production situation to current economic policies. Lin Weihao would occasionally bring up some topics, and Yang Guangming could always respond and offer his own insights. Although they might not be particularly profound, they were substantial, logically clear, and showed that he had a broad knowledge base and was very opinionated.

Lin Weihao and Gao Jingyi exchanged a glance, both seeing the admiration in each other's eyes.

What they valued most about their future son-in-law was his character and abilities. Regarding his character, they had already privately asked around to get to know him, and the reviews were quite positive; everyone said the young man was reliable, upright, and capable. Meeting him today, his composed demeanor and manners further confirmed those positive assessments.

In terms of ability, being able to serve as the head of the finance department in a large state-owned enterprise at such a young age is the best proof of his capabilities. Talking to him in person now, I was pleasantly surprised to find that he is quick-witted, insightful, and far surpasses his peers.

As for family background, they truly did not value it, just as they told their daughter. In fact, they felt that in the current turbulent environment, ordinary working-class families were simpler and more stable. As long as the family was harmonious and did not cause trouble for the young couple, that was the best outcome.

The first impression was excellent, and after talking, there were new discoveries and surprises. Lin Weihao and Gao Jingyi became more and more friendly towards Yang Guangming, gradually revealing a family-like ease and intimacy.

Gao Jingyi is a typical example of a mother-in-law who likes her son-in-law more and more the more she looks at him; her smile never faded. Even Lin Weihao, her future father-in-law, spoke with undisguised admiration and occasionally cracked a harmless joke.

In their view, their youngest daughter, Lin Jianyue, was simple and kind-hearted, and they were always worried that she would suffer in the future. They feared that if they found someone too shrewd, their daughter would be wronged; if they found someone equally honest, they worried that neither of them would be able to handle the complexities of life.

Yang Guangming is a capable and shrewd man, appearing intelligent and efficient, yet also calm and sentimental. His clear and honest eyes reveal him to be a responsible and principled person. He and Jian Yue have a three-year-long relationship and understand each other well, making their union feel incredibly reassuring.

After chatting for about an hour, Gao Jingyi stood up and said with a smile, "You guys keep chatting, I'll go check on how the food is being prepared in the kitchen. Auntie's cooking skills are just so-so, please forgive me, Guangming."

"Auntie, you're too modest. I'm sorry to have troubled you," Yang Guangming said politely as he stood up.

"No trouble at all, no trouble at all, please sit down." Gao Jingyi waved with a smile and went into the kitchen.

She started preparing for this meeting several days in advance, and today she got up very early to prepare a sumptuous meal.

Soon, the food was served. The crystal shrimp were translucent, the braised ribbonfish was rich and flavorful, the poached chicken had yellow skin and tender meat, the stewed bamboo shoot soup was milky white, and there were two plates of stir-fried seasonal vegetables. The food was a feast for the eyes, nose, and palate, and it was clear that a lot of thought had been put into it.

Lin Weihua also opened a bottle of Moutai liquor, and seemed to be in a lot of interest.

"Come on, Guangming, I'm happy today, have a drink with me."

"Thank you, Uncle." Yang Guangming was the first to pick up the wine bottle and pour the wine.

The atmosphere at the table was very harmonious. Lin Weihao and Gao Jingyi stopped asking too many questions about Yang Guangming's situation and instead chatted about some everyday anecdotes, occasionally asking about Lin Jianyue's work.

Yang Guangming was well-mannered, offering toasts when appropriate and answering questions when necessary. He didn't talk much, but he always got to the point. His attitude was respectful yet relaxed, and he blended in well into the family atmosphere.

Watching her parents and Yang Guangming get along so well, laughing and chatting, Lin Jianyue felt as sweet as if she had drunk honey, and her smile grew brighter and brighter.

The meal was a great pleasure for both the host and the guests.

After the meal, we drank another cup of tea and sat for a while before Yang Guangming took his leave.

Lin Jianyue had to go to work the next day and also needed to return to her residence in Ruikangli, so they got up together.

Gao Jingyi had already prepared a return gift: two bottles of Moutai liquor and two cartons of Zhonghua cigarettes, packed in a net bag, which she insisted Yang Guangming bring along.

“Auntie, this is too valuable, I can’t accept it,” Yang Guangming declined. “Take it!” Lin Weihao said, his tone leaving no room for refusal. “It’s the rule. You brought something, we can’t let you go back empty-handed. From now on, we’re family, so don’t be so formal.”

Having said that, Yang Guangming had no choice but to accept the gift and thank him again: "Thank you, Uncle, thank you, Aunt."

"Come visit us often in the future," Gao Jingyi said lovingly.

"Yes, I'll definitely come often," Yang Guangming nodded in response.

Lin Weihao and Gao Jingyi escorted the two to the door and watched them go downstairs before turning back.

As soon as she stepped out of the house, Lin Jianyue's tense nerves finally relaxed completely, and her excitement was palpable.

"That's great! Guangming, did you see that? My parents really love you!"

She chattered on and on, her cheeks flushed with excitement, "I told you not to worry! My dad is usually so serious, but today he talked to you so much and laughed so many times! And my mom, needless to say, looks at you like she's her own son..."

Seeing her joyful expression, Yang Guangming felt a surge of happiness and relief in his heart.

"Your aunt and uncle are such kind and open-minded people, they're so approachable," he said sincerely. "Now you can finally rest assured, right?"

"Yes!" Lin Jianyue nodded vigorously, her eyes sparkling. "I've never been so happy before!"

The two took a bus back to Ruikang Lane. Yang Guangming needed to rush home to tell his parents about their meeting that day, so he said goodbye to Lin Jianyue at the entrance of the alley.

"I'm going back now. You've had a busy day too, go back and rest for a while," Yang Guangming said.

"Okay, take care on your way." Lin Jianyue stood at the entrance of the alley, looking at him with reluctance, "Give my regards to your uncle and aunt."

"I will." Yang Guangming smiled, picked up the bag of cigarettes and alcohol, and turned to walk towards the bus stop.

Lin Jianyue watched his figure disappear around the street corner before humming a lighthearted tune, turning around and skipping home.

When Yang Guangming returned to his Shikumen house, it was still early.

Pushing open the door, I found the house unusually lively. Not only were my parents and eldest brother and sister-in-law there, but my second brother, Yang Guangyao, and his wife, Yue Xinlei, had also returned and were holding and playing with my little nephew, Zhuangzhuang.

Everyone was somewhat surprised to see that he was carrying a net bag that was clearly filled with gifts.

"Mingming's back? Wasn't he supposed to be working overtime today?" Zhang Xiuying asked first.

Before Yang Guangming could answer, his second brother, Yang Guangyao, stared at the contents of the net bag, his eyes lighting up as he was the first to realize what it was.

"Moutai? Zhonghua?" He looked at his younger brother in surprise, his tone carrying a hint of certainty. "Guangming, you...you didn't go to work overtime today, you went...to see Lin Jianyue's parents, right?"

He was particularly impressed by the fact that when he first visited Yue Xinlei's home, the Yue family gave him similar cigarettes and alcohol as a return gift.

The whole family's eyes immediately focused on Yang Guangming.

Seeing that his second brother had seen through him, Yang Guangming stopped hiding it, put the cloth bag on the table, and nodded frankly: "Yes, I went to see Yue's parents this morning."

"Oh dear! You child!" Zhang Xiuying slapped her thigh suddenly, her voice rising eight octaves instantly, a mixture of surprise and reproach. "Such a big thing, why didn't you tell me beforehand! You just went by yourself without a word? And how did it go? What happened? What did the other person's parents say? Did they give you any trouble?"

She bombarded him with a barrage of questions, her face filled with urgency and worry. She immediately looked him up and down, as if to see if he was unharmed.

Yang Yongkang put down his teacup and looked over with concern. Yang Guanghui, Li Guihua, and the Yang Guangyao couple also held their breath, waiting for an answer.

Looking at his family's concerned eyes, Yang Guangming felt a warmth in his heart and a relieved smile appeared on his face: "Dad, Mom, don't worry. The meeting went very smoothly. Uncle and Aunt are both very nice and friendly."

He pulled his mother to sit down, and then slowly and deliberately recounted the entire process of their meeting that day in detail.

She told her family everything from how to enter the house, how to greet them, how Lin Jianyue's parents received her, what they talked about, how friendly the other party was, how lavish the lunch was, how the other party reciprocated, and Lin Jianyue's retelling of her parents' previous open-minded ideas.

The whole family listened intently, their expressions shifting from initial tension and worry to surprise and joy, and finally to smiles of relief and pride.

"That's wonderful! That's wonderful!" Zhang Xiuying's eyes welled up with tears as she patted her son's hand vigorously. "Amitabha! It's truly a blessing from heaven! I never imagined that Jianyue's parents were such understanding and kind people! They have no airs at all! And they value you so much! It's truly... truly our Mingming's good fortune!"

A huge weight was lifted from her heart, and her previous worries about "marrying up" vanished, replaced by immense excitement and pride.

“Yes, it’s rare to see a leader’s family so approachable.” Yang Yongkang’s face was also full of relaxed smiles, and his wrinkles seemed to have become much shallower. “This shows that they are a truly reasonable and cultured family. Guangming, you must perform even better in the future and not let them down.”

“Dad, I know.” Yang Guangming nodded solemnly.

"Mingming is amazing!" The older brother, Yang Guanghui, laughed and punched his younger brother's shoulder. "I knew it! With our brother's looks, who wouldn't be satisfied?"

"That's right!" Sister-in-law Li Guihua echoed, "We're the kind of people who are good-looking, capable, and have great personalities. You'd be hard-pressed to find someone like us! The leader's family has a discerning eye!"

Second sister-in-law Yue Xinlei also congratulated him with a smile: "Guangming, now you can rest assured. With such good conditions, I knew you could definitely do it."

Yang Guangyao looked proud: "Of course, I knew it a long time ago, there was definitely no problem! This is great, our family is going to have another happy event!"

After learning that her son had successfully passed the test of his future in-laws and that the other family was so satisfied and supportive, Zhang Xiuying, once her excitement subsided, immediately began to plan her next steps.

"Mingming, shouldn't we bring Jianyue home for a meal next? Let Mom and Dad meet our future daughter-in-law?" She held her son's hand, her eyes full of anticipation. "How about we set it for Sunday? Mom will prepare a few dishes!"

This was already part of the plan, and Yang Guangming readily agreed: "Okay, Mom. I'll talk to Jian Yue about it later, let's set it for Sunday."

"Great! Great!" Zhang Xiuying was overjoyed and immediately began to plan the menu. "I need to make some of my signature dishes... braised pork is a must, stir-fried shrimp... and a soup... By the way, Mingming, what kind of food does Jianyue like? Does she have any dietary restrictions?"

Yang Guangming was amused by his mother's anxiety: "Mom, don't worry, there's still a week. Let me ask her and then I'll let you know. She's not a picky eater, she's easy to please."

"Okay, okay, I need to think about it carefully..." Zhang Xiuying was already immersed in the joy of preparing to welcome her future daughter-in-law.

Seeing his wife's happy expression, Yang Yongkang shook his head helplessly and said to Yang Guangming, "Look how happy your mother is. You should also be more careful and get along well with Jianyue."

“I know, Dad,” Yang Guangming replied with a smile.

The house was filled with a joyful and expectant atmosphere. Seeing his family's happiness for him, Yang Guangming's heart was also filled with wonderful hopes for the future.

The next day after arriving at work, Yang Guangming took a moment to call Lin Jianyue's workplace.

When the call connected and he heard Lin Jianyue's voice, a smile involuntarily crept onto his lips.

"It's me, Mitsuki."

"Guangming, what's up?" Lin Jianyue's voice was gentle and smiling, clearly indicating that she was in a good mood.

"I told my parents about our meeting yesterday, and they were very happy. My mom can't wait to meet you and would like to invite you over for a casual meal this Sunday. Would that be convenient for you?"

There was a moment of silence on the other end of the phone, followed by Lin Jianyue's slightly shy voice: "...Yes, it's convenient."

She was already mentally prepared and knew that this was an essential step.

"Then it's settled?" Yang Guangming confirmed.

"Okay," Lin Jianyue replied softly, then hesitated before asking, "Then... should I prepare a gift? It wouldn't be appropriate to visit empty-handed for the first time..."

Yang Guangming comforted her, "Don't be too nervous. When my second sister-in-law first came to my house, she brought two pounds of White Rabbit milk candy, which was very popular. You can take that as a reference, or ask Xiang Hong for her opinion."

He didn't want to put too much pressure on Lin Jianyue; he just wanted something simple and affordable.

"White Rabbit Creamy Candy... Hmm, I understand." Lin Jianyue seemed to breathe a sigh of relief. "Then I'll get ready."

"Okay, I'll pick you up Sunday morning."

"Ah."

After hanging up the phone, Lin Jianyue's heart began to pound again, this time with a sweet and expectant nervousness.

She began to seriously consider what to wear on Sunday, what to say, and whether she should bring anything else besides candy.

Time slipped away unnoticed amidst our anticipation, and Sunday arrived in the blink of an eye.

Yang Guangming was still dressed in a clean and tidy white shirt and blue pants. He arrived at Ruikang Lane early to pick up Lin Jianyue.

Lin Jianyue wore a brand-new light green shirt today, which made her skin look even whiter. She paired it with crisp black trousers, making her look both dignified and elegant. In her hand, she carried a net bag containing two pounds of packaged White Rabbit milk candy and a box of high-quality Longjing tea that she had asked Feng Xianghong to buy.

"Let's go." Seeing Yang Guangming, she smiled nervously.

"Don't be nervous, my parents are very nice people, it's just a simple home-cooked meal." Yang Guangming could see her nervousness and comforted her gently, naturally taking the things from her hands.

"Okay." Lin Jianyue nodded, took a deep breath, and followed him to the bus stop.

In Yang Guangming's home, there was already a busy yet joyful scene.

Zhang Xiuying got up early to get busy, and Yang Yongkang was also directed to buy the freshest ribbonfish and pork belly. Li Guihua helped pick and wash the vegetables, while Yang Guanghui was responsible for looking after Zhuangzhuang and keeping him from causing trouble. Yang Guangyao and Yue Xinlei also arrived early to help out.

"They're here! Mingming and the others are back!" Yang Guangyao, who had been looking out the window, was the first to see the two walking side by side and quickly turned around to shout into the house.

A small commotion broke out in the room.

Zhang Xiuying wiped her hands on her apron and walked quickly to the door. Yang Yongkang also put down his newspaper and stood up.

Yang Guangming pushed open the door and stepped aside to let Lin Jianyue enter first.

"Dad, Mom, eldest brother and sister-in-law, second brother and sister-in-law, we're back," Yang Guangming introduced. "This is Jianyue."

Then he said to the somewhat awkward Lin Jianyue, "Jianyue, these are my parents, these are my eldest brother and sister-in-law Yang Guanghui and Li Guihua, these are my second brother and sister-in-law Yang Guangyao and Yue Xinlei, and this is my nephew Zhuangzhuang."

Lin Jianyue blushed slightly, bowed slightly, and greeted them in a soft voice: "Hello, Uncle, hello, Aunt, hello, eldest brother and sister-in-law, hello, second brother and sister-in-law."

"Oh, good, good child, come in, come in!" Zhang Xiuying's face lit up with a smile. She quickly stepped forward, took Lin Jianyue's hand, and looked her up and down carefully, her eyes filled with undisguised affection.

She hadn't expected her youngest daughter-in-law to be so pretty, with fair skin, gentle features, and a quiet and obedient nature. She was immediately overjoyed.

"Auntie, this is a small token of my appreciation. Please have a taste with your uncle." Lin Jianyue handed over the net bag in her hand, somewhat embarrassed.

"Oh, you've come all this way, why bring anything! You're being too polite!" Zhang Xiuying said, but still happily accepted the gift. When she saw that it contained White Rabbit milk candy and tea leaves, her smile deepened. "This candy is good, Zhuangzhuang will definitely like it! And this tea is so good, it will surely smell wonderful when brewed! Come sit down and rest, you must be tired from the journey."

Yang Yongkang smiled and nodded, "Comrade Xiao Lin, welcome, welcome. Don't be shy, make yourself at home."

Yang Guanghui and Li Guihua also greeted them warmly. Yang Guangyao and Yue Xinlei smiled and nodded to Lin Jianyue.

Zhuangzhuang looked at the pretty stranger with curiosity. After being nudged by Li Guihua, he greeted her, "Hello, Auntie!"

This shout made Lin Jianyue blush deeply and she was at a loss for what to do.

Everyone laughed, and the atmosphere in the room immediately became more relaxed and lively.

Zhang Xiuying pulled Lin Jianyue to sit down at the table, pouring tea and offering candy and snacks, her enthusiasm almost overwhelming Lin Jianyue.

Yang Guangming watched from the side, a smile on his face the whole time.

Yang Yongkang chatted with Lin Jianyue about everyday things and asked her about her work, his attitude was very easygoing and friendly.

Soon, the meal was ready, and the table was laden with food. The braised pork was glistening and tempting, the stir-fried shrimp was reddish-brown and crispy, the steamed fish was tender, and there were also several stir-fried seasonal vegetables and a pot of pickled bamboo shoots and pork soup, all of which were Zhang Xiuying's specialties.

"There's nothing fancy, Jianyue, please don't be shy, eat more." Zhang Xiuying kept putting food on Lin Jianyue's plate.

"Thank you, Auntie, that's enough, I can do it myself." Lin Jianyue quickly thanked her, feeling a warm glow in her heart as she looked at the mountain of food piled up in her bowl.

The atmosphere at the dinner table was pleasant, with everyone chatting and laughing. Although Lin Jianyue was still a little shy, she answered everyone's questions in a soft voice, occasionally revealing a shy smile.

Yang Guangming's family could all see that she was a kind-hearted and gentle girl, and they grew to like her even more.

After lunch, they sat and chatted for a while, drank a cup of tea, and then Yang Guangming, seeing that it was almost time, got up to say goodbye and offered to take Lin Jianyue home.

Zhang Xiuying had already prepared a return gift: two jin of cleaned ribbonfish and two bottles of honey, which she packed into a bamboo basket and insisted on giving to Lin Jianyue.

“Auntie, this…” Lin Jianyue wanted to decline.

"Take it, take it! It's all home-cooked food, don't be picky!" Zhang Xiuying said without giving any room for refusal. "You and Guangming can come back for meals often in the future!"

"Thank you, Auntie. Thank you, Uncle." Lin Jianyue had no choice but to accept the gifts and thank them again.

The whole family saw them off at the door.

Zhang Xiuying held Lin Jianyue's hand and said affectionately, "Good child, be careful on the road. If Guangming dares to bully you in the future, just tell Auntie, and Auntie will teach him a lesson for you!"

Lin Jianyue blushed and nodded: "Auntie, he won't."

"Mom, don't worry," Yang Guangming said with a smile.

With the whole family watching, Yang Guangming accompanied Lin Jianyue out of the alley.

Standing at the door, Zhang Xiuying watched her son and future daughter-in-law walk away side by side, beaming with joy. She exclaimed to Yang Yongkang beside her, "That's wonderful! Now, the last big weight on my heart can finally be lifted!"

Her heart felt completely filled with contentment and joy. One happy event after another graced the family, making life seem increasingly promising.

Yang Yongkang nodded with a relieved smile on his face.

The golden rays of the setting sun spilled into the courtyard, and also into the hearts of this family, filled with hope and joy. (End of Chapter)