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

With the successful conclusion of the rhinoceros horn and sea cucumber business, and Chu Dahu's smooth transition in mindset, for Yang Guangming, the most important event in his life naturally came to the forefront.

Yang Guangming felt as if life had entered a wide and calm river channel, and it was time to prepare for the next important port.

Through subsequent transactions, Yang Guangming accumulated a considerable collection of coupons, including wool coupons, cotton coupons, woolen coupons, cloth coupons, and even coupons for Moutai liquor, by exchanging various coupons with Chu Dahu from Wei Xiaomao.

These small tickets are now essential passes for scarce goods, and each one is hard-earned.

He carefully categorized them, packed them in kraft paper envelopes, and neatly labeled the type and quantity on the outside with pencil.

He has quietly completed most of his "sweet preparations" for his future home.

Every time he counted these tickets, Lin Jianyue's gentle smile would appear before his eyes, and he would imagine the warm and cozy scene of their future little home, which would fill him with enthusiasm and anticipation.

Seeing Xie Feiyang and Feng Xianghong's wedding progressing smoothly, with the couple even setting a date to get their marriage certificate after Labor Day, Yang Guangming's desire to start a family grew stronger, thanks to their example.

He was unwilling to wait indefinitely any longer and hoped to welcome that gentle and pretty girl into his home this year and begin a life that truly belonged to them.

On a bright and sunny Sunday morning, the new leaves of the plane trees in the alleyway had already unfurled into a dense green canopy.

Yang Guangming ate the simple breakfast prepared by his mother, Zhang Xiuying—rice porridge made from leftover rice soaked in hot water, served with pickled cucumbers and fermented bean curd.

I changed into a clean, ironed light gray shirt, and on my feet were the same pair of slightly worn leather shoes that I only wore when I went out, polished to a shine with shoe polish.

He took out his well-maintained Forever brand bicycle, carefully dusted off the saddle and handlebars with a soft cloth, and left early.

He was going to Ruikangli to see Lin Jianyue.

His purpose was clear: he asked her to pass on a message to his family, hoping to arrange a formal meeting between both sets of parents during the May Day holiday to finalize the wedding date for him and Lin Jianyue.

This idea had been lingering in his mind for a long time, and today he was finally going to put it into action.

The wheels rolled lightly over the quiet streets in the early morning, a gentle breeze carrying the fragrance of flowers and warmth.

The sycamore trees along the roadside are already lush and leafy, casting large areas of shade.

Yang Guangming's mood was as bright and expectant as the weather, and he even unconsciously hummed an off-key tune.

He imagined the shy yet delighted expression Lin Jianyue might have when she heard the suggestion, and a smile involuntarily crept onto his lips.

He turned into Ruikang Lane with practiced ease. He had just reached the entrance of the Shikumen courtyard where Lin Jianyue and Feng Xianghong lived, and before he could even raise his hand to knock on the familiar wooden door, the door creaked open from the inside.

Standing inside the door was none other than Feng Xianghong, whom he hadn't seen in a long time. This unexpected encounter startled Yang Guangming for a moment.

"Xiang Hong!" Yang Guangming was somewhat surprised, then smiled sincerely. "You're back? Is Auntie feeling better?" He keenly noticed that Feng Xiang Hong's expression seemed different from usual.

The woman in front of me, Feng Xianghong, looked noticeably thinner than she had been more than half a month ago. The contours of her face seemed clearer, and her complexion carried a hint of fatigue that was barely perceptible. The light blue shadows under her eyes suggested that she might not have been sleeping well.

His usual bright and cheerful, sun-like spirit seemed to have dimmed somewhat, and a faint cloud of sorrow hung between his brows.

She was wearing a slightly worn plaid coat, which had faded a bit from washing. Her hair was simply tied back, with a few stray strands hanging down her forehead, which made her look even more haggard.

Upon seeing Yang Guangming, Feng Xianghong forced a smile and stepped aside to let him in. "Oh, it's Guangming. Come in quickly. My mom... is much better. Thank you for thinking of me. She just needs to take her medicine on time and rest for a while longer, and she should be fine." Her voice sounded somewhat low and lacked its usual vitality.

She paused for a moment and explained, "My parents' place is too far from my workplace, and it's inconvenient for them to travel back and forth. My family also suggested that I move back here first, so that it's closer to my work."

"That's good. Recovery is the most important thing. You need to rest and it can't be rushed." Yang Guangming nodded and walked into the courtyard.

He became even more certain that something was on Feng Xianghong's mind, and that faint worry was not just his imagination.

But he knew that everyone had their own difficulties, so he didn't ask too many questions. He just politely greeted her, saying, "It's good that you're back. Jianyue has someone to keep her company now."

At this moment, Lin Jianyue heard the commotion and came out from the inner room.

Today she wore a light green polyester shirt with a small ribbon of the same color tied at the collar, which made her skin appear even whiter and more translucent, like fine porcelain. Seeing the bright sunlight, an undisguised joy immediately appeared on her face, her eyes sparkling.

"Guangming, you've come." Her voice was soft, carrying a hint of sweetness unique to seeing one's beloved.

"Yes, the weather is especially nice today. I was thinking of asking you to go for a walk." Yang Guangming looked at Lin Jianyue with gentle and focused eyes, as if everything around him had temporarily faded away.

Seeing this, Feng Xianghong smiled knowingly and said to Lin Jianyue, "Jianyue, why don't you and Guangming go out for a stroll? I'll stay home and tidy up; I have some things to organize."

After saying that, she turned and walked towards the dimly lit kitchen. Her figure looked somewhat thin and lonely in the spring sunshine.

Lin Jianyue watched Feng Xianghong leave, a clear worry flashing across her eyes, but it was quickly replaced by the joy of seeing Yang Guangming again.

She picked up a small, worn-out cloth handbag from the windowsill, nodded to the bright sunlight, and said softly, "Let's go then."

The two walked out of the Shikumen gate side by side, passing through the deep courtyard where residents occasionally hung out clothes to dry or placed flowers and plants, leaving behind the gradually rising noise of people in the alley.

Yang Guangming pushed his bicycle, and he and Lin Jianyue walked slowly along the alleyway covered with fallen locust blossoms. The delicate fragrance of locust blossoms permeated the air.

"Shall we go sit in the nearby park? It's quiet there, and it'll be easier to talk," Yang Guangming suggested. He needed a relatively private environment to discuss important matters.

"Okay." Lin Jianyue responded softly, obediently walking beside him.

The park is not large, but it is shaded by green trees, with several stone benches and tables scattered throughout.

On Sunday morning, there weren't many people around. Only a few elderly people with white hair were slowly practicing Tai Chi in the open space, their movements as graceful as flowing water. There were also a few young parents walking with their toddlers, enjoying their rare leisure time.

The two found a relatively quiet bench near a small pond and sat down. Several carp swam leisurely in the pond, occasionally creating ripples.

Without beating around the bush, Yang Guangming looked into Lin Jianyue's clear, watery eyes and said in a calm but serious tone, "Jianyue, I've come to see you today because there's something quite important I want to discuss with you." His expression became serious.

"What is it? Tell me." Lin Jianyue seemed to have a premonition of something, her heartbeat quickened slightly involuntarily, and her fingers unconsciously twisted the strap of her handbag.

"When I saw that Fei Yang and Xiang Hong's wedding was set for after May Day, I was really happy for them."

Yang Guangming spoke slowly, his voice steady, using this as an introduction, "Speaking of which, we've known each other and spent quite a while together. We understand each other and are of one mind."

In my heart... I'm genuinely thinking, shouldn't we postpone our wedding a bit?

He carefully chose his words, expressing his urgency without putting pressure on Lin Jianyue.

He paused, observing Lin Jianyue's reaction. Seeing that she merely lowered her head slightly, her long, thick eyelashes trembling, her cheeks flushed, and her hands clasped tightly on her knees, showing no sign of objection or hesitation, but rather a shy, tacit agreement, he mustered his courage and continued:
"My specific idea is to ask you to go home and talk to your uncle and aunt to see if they can spare some of their precious time during the May Day holiday to arrange a formal meeting between the elders of our two families."

Firstly, it's a chance for us to get to know each other and become familiar; secondly, if my parents think I'm alright and don't have any other objections, we can discuss and set our wedding date.

I hope... we can get things done this year, preferably around National Day, so you can have a stable home.

He laid out his long-held thoughts in one breath, and after saying this, Yang Guangming's gaze was honest and firm as he awaited Lin Jianyue's response.

Upon hearing this, Lin Jianyue's heart pounded wildly, like a startled deer. Amidst her shyness, she felt an overwhelming surge of sweetness and anticipation.

She had actually been waiting for those words for a long time.

Every moment she spent with Yang Guangming—his steadiness, reliability, thoughtfulness, and the unspoken understanding and care in their correspondence—had already convinced her that he was a young man she could entrust her life to. She longed to live with him and build a warm little home.

She took a deep breath, mustered her courage, and raised her head to bravely meet Yang Ming's expectant gaze. Although her cheeks were still flushed, like a ripe apple, her eyes were clear and firm. She nodded gently, her voice soft yet clear:

"Yes, I understand. I'll tell my parents when I get back. They...they've always had a good impression of you, so they should agree."

By the end, the voice was almost inaudible, but the meaning of agreement was clear.

Upon receiving Lin Jianyue's affirmative reply, the weight that had been hanging over Yang Guangming's heart for so long finally lifted with a thud. A tremendous sense of joy and relief instantly filled his chest, and a comfortable and radiant smile involuntarily appeared on his face.

The spring sunshine shone on his face, making it appear exceptionally warm and bright, and even his eyebrows and eyes seemed to relax.

"That's good! That's great!" His tone was much lighter, filled with a sense of relief and joy.

"When we were talking about Xie Feiyang and Feng Xianghong's marriage, I suddenly remembered that there's something else I'd like to discuss with you."

"What is it? Tell me." Seeing how happy he was, Lin Jianyue smiled as well.

"If Fei Yang and Xiang Hong get married, what would be a suitable gift for us, as their best friends?"

Yang Guangming steered the conversation toward his friend's wedding, something he'd been thinking about lately. "They're such good friends, so the gifts can't be too casual. They have to be thoughtful, practical, and meaningful."

"You know Xiang Hong's preferences and needs quite well, so what would be a suitable gift? Should we give her some practical household items, or something with sentimental value, like a beautiful tea set or a pretty table lamp?" He began listing common wedding gifts at the time.

When her friend's wedding was mentioned, Lin Jianyue's smile froze slightly, replaced by a heavy look of worry.

She sighed softly, and the joyful atmosphere that had filled the air seemed to fade away with that sigh, replaced by a faint gloom.

Yang Guangming immediately noticed the change in her mood, leaned forward with concern, and asked in a low voice, "What's wrong? Did they... have a fight?"

He recalled Feng Xianghong's haggard appearance and the worry between her brows when he saw her earlier, and his heart skipped a beat, worried that something had happened to his friend's relationship.

Lin Jianyue shook her head, her voice lowered, filled with obvious worry: "It's not a conflict. They have a very good relationship. But... it might be more troublesome than a conflict; it's a family matter."

I only heard bits and pieces of what Sister Hong said from her when she came back from home this time; she was in a low mood. She had never mentioned it in detail before, so it's probably only recently become serious.

"Oh? What's going on? Is it convenient for you to tell me?" Yang Guangming's expression turned serious, realizing that the problem might not be simple.

Lin Jianyue carefully considered her words and said softly, "Xiang Hong's mother's illness this time is not only due to her poor health and overwork, but also largely related to the recent pressure at home and her anxiety."

Her father... is Uncle Feng. He was recently investigated by the organization for some remarks he made during work discussions.

The specifics of the situation and what was involved weren't explained in detail to Sister Hong. She might not be fully aware of the details either, or it might be inconvenient for her to elaborate, but it sounded... quite serious, not a trivial matter.

She paused, picked up a handkerchief to wipe the fine beads of sweat from the tip of her nose, and continued, "The investigation results are not out yet, everything is in suspense, but what if... what if the problem is classified as serious, Fei Yang and Xiang Hong's marriage will probably be greatly affected."

"The Xiang family is definitely not in the mood for a happy occasion right now. Even in the best-case scenario, where Uncle Feng is alright and it's just a false alarm, the wedding will probably have to be postponed until things calm down and things settle down at home."

Upon hearing this, Yang Guangming immediately understood.

That's it!

No wonder when I saw Feng Xianghong today, she seemed like a completely different person, looking preoccupied and haggard.

Marriage is a major life event, and whether the organization will approve it and whether the other party's family will have concerns are all real issues.

He remained silent for a moment, his mood becoming somewhat heavy.

As Xie Feiyang's good friend, he was aware of Xie Feiyang's feelings for Feng Xianghong and also understood Feng Xianghong's character.

He could only sigh, "Sigh, I hope Uncle Feng gets through this smoothly, and it's just a false alarm. Otherwise..."

He didn't finish his sentence, but both of them understood the helplessness and cruelty of reality.

Not to mention those who are not yet married, even those who are already married are not uncommon to be forced to draw a line or even divorce in order to protect themselves.

This is not a chasm that can be easily crossed by personal feelings.

This unexpected news cast a slight shadow over the previously expectant and sweet atmosphere.

The two fell silent for a moment, feeling worried and regretful about the potentially difficult future that Xie Feiyang and Feng Xianghong, the lovers, might face.

The carp in the pond remained leisurely, but the spring scenery they saw suddenly seemed to have lost some of its brightness.

Yang Guangming had originally planned to stroll around with Lin Jianyue for a while longer, then find a quiet little restaurant for lunch to enjoy some time alone together. However, after learning about Feng Xianghong's situation, Lin Jianyue was clearly worried about her friend being home alone.

“Guangming, how about… we head back early today?” Lin Jianyue looked at Yang Guangming with concern in her eyes. “Sister Xiang Hong must be feeling really down at home all by herself. I’m worried about her and want to go back and keep her company, or at least talk to her.”

Yang Guangming immediately expressed his understanding: "We should go back and see her. Xiang Hong needs her friends by her side at this time. Let's go back now."

Although he was somewhat disappointed that his anticipated date had to end early, he was more understanding of Lin Jianyue's sincere concern for her friend.

Thus, the planned park walk and lunch came to an abrupt end.

Yang Guangming pushed his bicycle and took Lin Jianyue back to the entrance of Ruikangli Shiku.

The alleyway was a bit more lively than before, with children playing and adults greeting each other, but this everyday atmosphere only highlighted the heaviness of Feng Xianghong's family affairs.

"Jianyue, let's do as we discussed. Tell your family first. Let me know as soon as you have any news," Yang Guangming said before parting, his tone becoming gentle again.

"Okay, I know. Don't worry. Be careful riding your bike on the road." Lin Jianyue stood at the door, responding softly, her eyes still filled with worry for her friend.

Yang Guangming nodded, squeezed her hand tightly, and then rode away on his bicycle.

On the way back, he had mixed feelings, with anticipation and joy for the smooth progress of his own marriage, as well as a vague worry that his friend's relationship might encounter difficulties.

Life is unpredictable, and plans can never keep up with changes. This makes him realize even more how precious and worth cherishing it is to be able to hold onto the happiness of the present moment relatively steadily and walk hand in hand with the one he loves.

He secretly resolved to establish his own little family as soon as possible, to give Lin Jianyue a safe haven.

……

After Lin Jianyue brought Yang Guangming's wishes home, Lin Weihao and Gao Jingyi, despite their busy work schedules, took their daughter's marriage very seriously. They carefully inquired about Yang Guangming's recent situation and his thoughts on the future.

Lin Jianyue naturally praised Yang Guangming repeatedly, saying how steady and reliable he was, and how well he planned things out.

Lin Weihao and Gao Jingyi already had a good impression of Yang Guangming. Seeing that their daughter was determined and that Yang Guangming was indeed a reliable young man, they readily agreed to arrange a meeting.

Lin Weihua deliberately adjusted his busy work schedule and finally set the meeting time for noon on a Sunday, May 10th. This way, both of them would have plenty of time to relax.

Although it was a little later than the May Day holiday that Yang Ming had hoped for, it was already quite remarkable that Lin Weihao was able to find the time so quickly.

Upon receiving the news, Yang Guangming immediately began to make tense and meticulous arrangements. He used his rest time to visit several restaurants for comparison, and finally chose the well-known and highly regarded state-owned restaurant on Nanjing Road, "Chunfeng Songyuelou".

The restaurant boasts an elegant ambiance, renowned cuisine, and attentive service, striking a perfect balance between the seriousness of the meeting and the lack of excessive extravagance.

He booked a private room a few days in advance, carefully studied the menu, and thoughtfully ordered dishes that were both presentable and affordable. He also specially prepared a few bottles of Moutai liquor in case of emergency.

On the morning of May 10th, the entire Yang Guangming family mobilized and got busy, filling their home with a festive yet tense atmosphere.

Zhang Xiuying rummaged through her belongings and found a dark gray khaki coat that she only wore on holidays or important occasions. She carefully smoothed out the wrinkles in front of the mirror, combed her hair meticulously, and applied some hair oil, making her look exceptionally energetic.

Yang Yongkang also changed into his usual dark blue Zhongshan suit, which he rarely wore. The top button of the collar was fastened tightly. Although his face still maintained its usual seriousness, his eyes and brows revealed an undisguised joy.

Yang Guanghui and Li Guihua also brought Xiao Zhuangzhuang. The whole family was neatly dressed, and Xiao Zhuangzhuang was even dressed in a new outfit. Yang Guangyao and Yue Xinlei also came over from Yue's house.

Yang Guangming himself got up early in the morning to wash up, changed into a brand new crisp white shirt and straight-ironed blue trousers, and polished his leather shoes until they were so shiny you could see your reflection in them.

He checked the cigarettes, tea, and bottles of Moutai liquor he was supposed to bring repeatedly to make sure everything was in order.

The sun was shining brightly today, and I looked exceptionally energetic and vibrant.

He arrived at the restaurant ahead of time, checked the private room environment, inspected the menu, arranged the tea, and made sure everything was ready before waiting at the door with peace of mind.

Around 11 o'clock, Lin Jianyue and her family of three arrived in a jeep.

Lin Weihao wore a new military uniform without collar insignia. He stood upright, walked steadily, and exuded the dignity of a soldier and the composure of a seasoned veteran.

Gao Jingyi wore an elegant light gray shirt, black trousers, and a light-colored silk scarf around her neck. She exuded a gentle and intellectual air, with a warm smile.

Lin Jianyue followed her parents, wearing a newly made floral shirt that made her look more beautiful than the flowers. Her face was flushed with a shy yet happy blush, and her eyes were bright and sparkling.

The parents of both sides met at the entrance of the private room. Yang Guangming immediately stepped forward to introduce them, his attitude respectful yet generous.

"Uncle Lin, Aunt Gao, hello. This is my father, Yang Yongkang, and my mother, Zhang Xiuying. This is my eldest brother, Yang Guanghui, and his wife, Li Guihua. This is my second brother, Yang Guangyao, and his wife, Yue Xinlei." Yang Guangming introduced them clearly and in an orderly manner, his tone steady.

Yang Yongkang stepped forward and extended both hands to shake hands with Lin Weihua, his attitude warm: "Commander Lin, Comrade Gao, hello, welcome, welcome! You must be tired from your journey!" His words were concise and powerful.

Zhang Xiuying beamed with joy and warmly took Gao Jingyi's hand: "Oh, Comrade Gao, I'm so glad to see you! Mingming has been talking about you all this time, and seeing you today is truly... I don't even know how to describe it! You're even better than Mingming described!" Her joy was palpable.

Gao Jingyi responded with a smile, gently patting Zhang Xiuying's hand: "Sister Zhang, you're too kind. Just call us Lao Lin and Jingyi. We're family now, so please don't stand on ceremony and feel at ease."

Her attitude was very easygoing and friendly, without any airs of a leader, which instantly shortened the distance between us.

Lin Weihua smiled and said to Yang Yongkang, "Comrade Yongkang, just call me Lao Lin from now on. What division commander or not, it's all revolutionary work, just different roles. You've raised a good son, Guangming, we have high hopes for him."

His words were cheerful and affirmed Yang Guangming, which also made the Yang family feel very gratified.

After exchanging pleasantries, the two entered a simply yet elegantly decorated private room and took their seats.

A pristine white tablecloth covered the round table, and the tableware was neatly arranged and gleaming. The atmosphere was initially slightly reserved, but the Lin family parents' peaceful and friendly demeanor greatly eased the tension among the Yang family members.

Unlike some families, Lin Weihao did not immediately question the Yang family about their specific economic situation or detailed family background. They already knew these things through their daughter and other sources.

Instead, he chatted with Yang Yongkang as if they were old friends, asking about the recent technological reforms at the factory and what the veteran technician thought. He also inquired about Zhang Xiuying's health and whether her children had done anything funny or mischievous when they were young.

Gao Jingyi smiled and chatted with Zhang Xiuying and Li Guihua about everyday matters, asking about the recent supply of vegetables at the market, their experiences in raising children, and even exchanging ideas on knitting patterns.

These topics were light and down-to-earth, which quickly put Zhang Xiuying and Li Guihua at ease, and they started talking more.

Yang Guangming and Lin Jianyue sat to the side, occasionally chiming in with a few words. Their main responsibility was to pour tea and serve water to the elders, taking great care and attention to their needs.

Seeing their parents chatting happily in a harmonious atmosphere, the two exchanged a reassuring and joyful look, feeling much more at ease and their expectations for the future even stronger.

The food and drinks were served one after another.

The dishes served at Yangguangmingdian are both plentiful and affordable, taking into account both taste and symbolism: stir-fried shrimp, refreshing and delicious; braised fish tail, symbolizing good fortune; poached chicken, with crispy skin and tender meat; pickled bamboo shoots and pork soup, a spring delicacy; eight-treasure spicy sauce, the best accompaniment to rice; and crispy fried noodles, a fragrant staple food.

In addition, there were several seasonal vegetables, and the soup was a delicious shredded vegetable soup. The wine was a few bottles of Moutai that Yang Guangming had specially brought, and he personally filled everyone's glasses.

Lin Weihua seemed to be in good spirits. He took the initiative to raise his glass and said, "Comrade Yongkang, Sister Zhang, Guanghui and Guangyao, I am very happy to meet you all today."

After getting to know Guangming, we found him to be steady, reliable, and ambitious. More importantly, he is sincere towards Jianyue, and Jingyi and I are very satisfied with him.

Seeing Yue spending time with him, we, as parents, feel at ease.

This first glass is a toast to our two families sitting together today, to our soon-to-be family, and to the future happiness of our children!

Everyone raised their glasses and stood up, the clinking of glasses creating a crisp sound and instantly enlivening the atmosphere. Yang Yongkang responded sincerely; though not eloquent, his words were simple and touching:
"Old Lin, Comrade Jingyi, thank you for your recognition and appreciation of Guangming."

Jianyue is a sensible, kind, and well-mannered child. Our whole family, from Xiuying and me to his older brother and sister-in-law, all like him.

If Guangming does anything wrong or falls short in the future, please speak up and teach him as needed. Don't be shy.

We will definitely urge him to treat Jianyue well and be responsible for this family.

Lin Weihao and Gao Jingyi nodded repeatedly at these words.

During the meal, the topic naturally and smoothly shifted to the most crucial matter for the two young people: their marriage.

Gao Jingyi put down her chopsticks, gently wiped her mouth with a napkin, and spoke in a gentle and frank tone, her gaze sweeping over the Yang family members:

"Comrade Yongkang, Sister Zhang, and everyone else, regarding the matter of Guangming and Jianyue, our family's thoughts are very simple and clear. As long as they have a good relationship, are genuinely willing to be together, and support each other, we as parents will support them 100%."

She glanced at Lin Weihao beside her, and after receiving his affirmative look, continued:

"Guangming may have mentioned my situation and Lao Lin's situation to you. We are both quite busy with work, especially Lao Lin, who often has to go to the troops and attend meetings. It is common for him to be away from home."

Therefore, it is probably difficult for us to personally handle all the trivial matters involved in wedding preparations and to consider every aspect thoroughly.

What we mean is, we're mainly asking you to take care of everything, big or small.

We agree to whatever arrangements you make, we trust you completely, and we have absolutely no objections. As long as the children are happy, whatever you do is fine.

This statement fully demonstrates the Lin family's trust and respect for the Yang family.

Hearing this, Zhang Xiuying felt extremely relieved and quickly expressed her agreement, her voice rising slightly with excitement:
"Jingyi, don't worry! You're all busy with work, doing great things for the country. It's only right that you leave these small things at home to us!"

We will do our best to make the wedding a grand and respectable affair, with all the proper etiquette observed. We will never let Jianyue suffer any injustice! Her face radiated the glory of being trusted.

Gao Jingyi smiled and nodded, her tone becoming even gentler: "Of course we believe it."

As for Jianyue, we, as her parents, wouldn't let her get married empty-handed. We've already started preparing everything for her.

Bedding, clothes for all four seasons, and some daily necessities—almost everything is prepared.

She paused for a moment, then explained the specific arrangements: "In addition, we plan to give her a newly released Phoenix brand women's bicycle as part of her dowry, so that it will be convenient for her to commute to get off work; a Shanghai brand all-steel watch, so that it will be convenient for her to tell the time; and we will also prepare 600 yuan in cash for her to keep as a dowry, so that when she and Guangming start living together, she will have some cash on hand and some confidence to deal with unexpected needs."

These words surprised the Yang family members, but they were even more moved.

A bicycle, a watch, and 600 yuan in cash!

This dowry was extremely generous by today's standards, far exceeding ordinary standards, fully demonstrating the Lin family's extreme love for their daughter and their high regard and satisfaction with this marriage.

This is not just material support, but also a strong guarantee and best wishes for my daughter's future happiness.

Yang Yongkang took a deep breath, his expression becoming even more solemn. On behalf of the whole family, he said, "Old Lin, Comrade Jingyi, you...you really love your children so much. We appreciate your kindness and thank you on behalf of the two children!"

Rest assured, although our Yang family is of ordinary means, just a working-class family, we will never lack the proper etiquette.

The first two daughters-in-law had everything they had when they entered the family, and Jianyue will have everything she needs, only better and more thoughtfully prepared!

"We will definitely marry Jianyue into our family in a grand and glorious manner!" This was the promise and commitment of the Yang family as the groom's family.

Lin Weihua waved his hand with satisfaction, his tone cheerful: "Hey, Comrade Yongkang, don't be so formal. As long as the children live a good and prosperous life in the future, that's more important than anything else."

He then cut to the heart of the matter, "What are your initial ideas or traditions regarding the specific wedding date?"

Yang Yongkang and Zhang Xiuying exchanged a glance, then looked at Yang Guangming and Lin Jianyue. Seeing the two young people staring at him expectantly, Yang Yongkang hesitated for a moment and said:

"We've been thinking that around National Day would be a good time. The autumn weather is pleasant, not too hot or too cold, making it convenient to get things done, and we also have enough time to prepare. What do you think? Do you have any other considerations?"

He humbly handed the option back.

Lin Weihua and Gao Jingyi exchanged a glance, and almost without hesitation, both smiled and nodded. Lin Weihua readily said:
"Happy National Day! This day is very meaningful, symbolizing our country's prosperity and also a new beginning for our little family! Let's settle on this!"

Just let us know whether it's before or after National Day, and which day is auspicious according to the Chinese almanac. We'll fully cooperate!

Lin Weihua made the final decision, demonstrating the decisive style of a soldier.

The most important wedding date was set in this relaxed, pleasant, and mutually respectful atmosphere.

Yang Guangming and Lin Jianyue finally felt relieved, looked at each other and smiled, their joy overflowing.

The atmosphere at the following dinner was even more harmonious and pleasant.

The parents chatted about everyday anecdotes and exchanged opinions on wedding details, such as which group of relatives and friends to invite, whether the ceremony should be simple and elegant or a little more lively. They both expressed that they would prioritize doing things in a new and simple way, being frugal and economical, and not being too extravagant, but still hoping for a joyous and fulfilling occasion.

The lunch lasted for nearly two hours, and both hosts and guests enjoyed themselves immensely.

The two sides said their goodbyes amicably at the hotel entrance. Lin Weihua and Gao Jingyi left in a jeep, while the Yang family walked home in high spirits, excitedly discussing their meeting and upcoming arrangements.

On the way back, Zhang Xiuying's eyes welled up with tears, and she kept wiping them with her sleeve. Holding Yang Guangming's hand, she repeatedly said:

"How wonderful! They are such a kind and understanding family, without any airs at all!"

Mingming, you're so lucky to have found such a wonderful girl like Jianyue, and such great parents-in-law! We must treat them well!

Although Yang Yongkang didn't say much, he had a rare, relaxed smile on his face, and his steps were much lighter.

The brothers and sisters-in-law also congratulated Yang Guangming, saying joyful things like, "Now the third brother can rest easy," and "Our family is going to have another member." The joy in the family was like a warm spring breeze, radiating from everyone's face.

Seeing his family's happy faces and hearing their sincere blessings, Yang Guangming felt his heart filled with boundless anticipation for the future and a heavy sense of responsibility.

With the marriage arranged, it's like the ship of life has finally found a clear harbor. Next, it's time to make final preparations for welcoming the new life.

After the parents' meeting, the specific details of the wedding were officially put on the agenda and entered a busy preparation stage.

The wedding date is set for National Day, which means there are still five months to go. It seems like a long time, but there are still a lot of things to prepare and things to arrange.

Yang Guangming decided that his primary task was to take advantage of this time to reorganize and carefully decorate the 26-square-meter dormitory room that the factory had allocated to him. After all, this was his future wedding room, and it was worth putting a lot of effort into tidying it up.

He temporarily moved back to his Shikumen house to live with his parents, so that there would be more space for a complete painting and renovation. Although the living conditions at home were a bit cramped, this temporary inconvenience was nothing for the sake of his future family.

Painting the walls is the first task in making an old house look brand new.

Through his connections in the factory's housing management department, he found a skilled and familiar painter, bought the best white lime, and meticulously repainted the dormitory, including the two inner and outer rooms, as well as the two small cubicles.

On the day the walls were painted, the smell of lime was a bit pungent, but watching the walls gradually turn snow-white and shiny filled Yang Guangming with the joy of creation.

He offered cigarettes and tea to the painter, bustling around to ensure the quality of the painting. After the walls were painted, he carefully mopped the cement floor several times until its clean, natural color was revealed.

The next step is to purchase and plan for new furniture.

The precious mahogany furniture he had painstakingly collected from Huaiguo in his dormitory—the sturdy rosewood bed, the beautifully designed huanghuali wardrobe, the gorgeously textured chicken-wing wood desk, and the solid red sandalwood bunk bed—was absolutely untouchable. These were the "foundation" he had accumulated for the future, not only practical but also possessing the potential for collection and appreciation.

But he plans to replace other ordinary old furniture, such as the old kitchen counter, the slightly bulky old-fashioned cupboard, and the beechwood single bed, with new ones to make the new house look brighter and more like a newlywed home.

He carefully calculated his savings, used some of it, and his mother, Zhang Xiuying, gave him some of her savings that she had accumulated through frugality.

He visited several furniture stores, repeatedly comparing styles, quality, and prices, and finally purchased several new pieces of furniture:
A brand-new, stylish cupboard with glass doors, a practical worktable of moderate size with a smooth surface, four simple and sturdy wooden chairs with a glossy finish, and a new, tightly stretched palm-fiber bed.

He plans to put the new bed in the cubicle so that relatives and friends can stay there temporarily if they come to visit.

As for the rosewood bunk bed, after much hesitation, he decided to keep it. He carefully cleaned it and placed it in another small compartment; after all, the wood was of good quality and the craftsmanship was exquisite, making it a nice collectible. (End of Chapter)