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

Lin Jianyue's life in that luxurious villa in Repulse Bay, Hong Kong Island, was like a glamorous yet detached dream.

A month passed quietly amidst adaptation, novelty, and a touch of unease. Before she could fully process the complex emotions in her heart, her return date arrived.

On the afternoon of August 15th, the flight pierced through layers of clouds and landed smoothly on the runway of Shanghai Hongqiao Airport.

The fuselage shuddered slightly, and Lin Jianyue's heart trembled slightly as well, as if something that had been suspended for a long time had finally fallen back into reality.

As the cabin door opened, a humid, hot wind rushed in. Unlike the salty, humid sea breeze of Hong Kong Island, this was the more familiar, sticky, and full heat of a summer in Jiangnan, instantly enveloping her.

Lin Jianyue took a deep breath, her lungs filled with an indescribable sense of peace, as if she had taken off some kind of invisible but heavy armor, and even her steps became lighter.

However, beneath this relaxation lingered a subtle sense of disorientation. The neon lights and tranquility of Hong Kong Island intertwined with the familiar, bustling scene before her, giving her the illusion of traversing two different times and spaces.

Jing Shu and Zhi Yuan, like two birds released from their cage, looked around excitedly, their little faces beaming with pure joy.

They chattered excitedly about what delicious food their grandparents would prepare, filled with anticipation for the upcoming family reunion.

As soon as he stepped out of the arrival hall, Yang Guangming's eyes spotted Wang Qingyu, who was already waiting in the crowd of people picking up passengers.

Two years have passed like the best polishing tool, forging Wang Qingyu's original competence and efficiency into a more composed and reserved demeanor, while also revealing an even more solid confidence.

He wore a meticulously ironed light blue short-sleeved shirt, crisp navy blue trousers, and gleaming leather shoes. Standing in the slightly noisy crowd, he was upright, with a calm gaze and an air of extraordinary elegance.

"Ming-ge, sister-in-law, you must be tired from your journey." Although Wang Qingyu was two years older than Guangming, he had gotten used to addressing him this way in private for easier communication.

Wang Qingyu greeted them with a cheerful smile, smoothly and naturally taking the heaviest suitcase from Yang Guangming's hands. He then bent down with great familiarity, looking the two children at eye level, affectionately ruffled Jing Shu's hair, and gently patted Zhiyuan's shoulder.

"Jing Shu is becoming more and more like a young lady. Zhi Yuan's small frame must mean he's been working out a lot in Hong Kong."

"Uncle Qingyu!" the two children called out in unison, their affection overflowing. Jing Shu even took Wang Qingyu's hand, showing the goodwill she had developed over time.

"Thank you for your trouble, Qingyu, for making this special trip."

Yang Guangming nodded with a smile, his tone conveying familiarity and trust towards his capable subordinate.

Despite their long-distance relationship, their frequent communication via overseas phone calls and their strong affirmation of Wang Qingyu's abilities have forged a deep-rooted working rapport.

"Of course," Wang Qingyu replied simply, leading them towards the parking lot. "The liaison office recently acquired a new car, which is in good condition. It's perfect for picking you up. Having a car will make your trip in Shanghai much more convenient."

He brought a black Mercedes-Benz, a slightly older model than the S-Class that Yang Guangming often used on Hong Kong Island. However, in the early 1980s on the streets of Shanghai, this black sedan with special license plates was still a symbol of status and power, attracting the attention of passersby.

The car drove smoothly out of the airport and merged into the not-too-congested traffic.

Yang Guangming never discussed work in the car, and Wang Qingyu was well aware of this. He simply asked Yang Guangming about his general itinerary and length of stay in Shanghai, as if it were a casual conversation.

"I plan to leave for Kyoto on August 28th to report for duty. That means I'll have about two weeks in Shanghai, which is plenty of time." Yang Guangming leaned back comfortably in the back of the seat, gazing out the window.

Familiar street scenes flashed by, interspersed with some new buildings, telling the story of the city's quiet changes. A feeling of warmth mixed with the sense of things being different from what they used to be stirred gently in his heart.

"Ok, I see."

Wang Qingyu maintained a proper distance, neither overly warm nor distant. "I have already prepared the relevant work briefings and several documents that require your final signature. I will deliver them to you after you have settled in and rested."

Tonight I've booked two tables at 'Green Willow Village' for Ming-ge and his wife to welcome them home, and also for the whole family to get together for a reunion dinner.

Yang Guangming nodded approvingly: "You've thought things through and arranged things very well."

Wang Qingyu drove directly to the garden villa located in the JA district.

Years of meticulous maintenance and occasional repairs have allowed this old villa to regain its former glory through the passage of time.

The flowers and plants in the courtyard were even more lush and verdant than when he left, and the tall trees cast dense green shade, making the white walls appear particularly tranquil and serene under the summer sun.

Wang Qingyu didn't linger. He neatly handed the car keys to Yang Guangming, briefly explained the restaurant's private room number and the reservation information, and then politely said goodbye, leaving the precious family reunion time entirely to this family.

It was already 6:30 pm, and the afterglow of the setting sun, like warm amber, flowed slowly over the white exterior walls of the garden villa, gilding each window with a soft golden edge.

Upon learning that Yang Ming's family was returning today, everyone in the Yang family, whether they were at work or school, finished their work early and gathered here, eagerly awaiting their return.

As soon as the car stopped outside the gate, the sharp-eyed child cheered and announced the news, and the family immediately came out to greet them warmly.

"Hello Grandpa! Hello Grandma! Brother! Sister!" The children's calls rose and fell, filled with pure joy.

Zhang Xiuying was the first to rush forward. Her gaze was fixed on her son, Yang Guangming, and she looked him up and down carefully several times to make sure that he had a rosy complexion, was full of energy, and was alright. Only then did she feel a little relieved.

Immediately, she hugged Jing Shu and Zhi Yuan tightly, her voice instantly choking with emotion: "Oh, my two little darlings, I've missed you so much! It's been over a month since I left. Did you eat well over there? Did you sleep well? I heard you can't understand the language in Hong Kong. Has anyone been bullying you...?"

She kept asking questions, as if she had countless questions to ask all at once. Her rough hands stroked her grandchildren's cheeks and backs again and again, her eyes reddening, and she was almost in tears.

This separation of more than a month felt far too long for her.

Yang Yongkang stood a step behind his wife, a rare, barely perceptible smile of contentment on his face. He reached out his large, calloused hand and patted his son's shoulder firmly, his voice steady:
"It's good that you're back. How long will you be staying this time?"

The words were simple, yet full of a father's concern.

“Dad, I can stay for two weeks,” Yang Guangming answered clearly.

"Two weeks is good, that's not short. You can rest well and spend time with your mother." Yang Yongkang nodded, a look of relief in his eyes.

Lin Jianyue stood beside her husband, a gentle smile on her face, and greeted her father-in-law, her eldest brother Yang Guanghui and sister-in-law Li Guihua, her second brother Yang Guangyao and sister-in-law Yue Xinlei, as well as her eldest sister Yang Xianglan and second sister Yang Xiangmei.

Although she had only been away for a month, the experience of this trip to Hong Kong Island was so special that seeing these familiar faces of her relatives again gave her a strange sense of time displacement, as if that month of life on Hong Kong Island had been stolen.

The family huddled together as they entered the spacious and bright living room. The air conditioner in the corner was already on, sending out a gentle breeze that completely shut out the summer heat and humidity, leaving only a warm and cool atmosphere.

Zhang Xiuying, holding Jing Shu with one hand and Zhiyuan with the other, sat down on the sofa and eagerly began to "interrogate" them about the details of their life on Hong Kong Island.

The two children were immediately eager to tell their stories and began to describe them one after another.

"Grandma, Dad's house is so big! So big!"

Zhiyuan stretched out his arms wide, trying his best to gesture the concept of "big" in his mind, his little face turning red. "There are lots and lots of glass, sparkly! And a big blue swimming pool! It's even bigger than our school's playground!"

He gestured wildly, trying to describe boundless luxury with a limited vocabulary.

Jing Shu was relatively quiet, but her eyes were shining like stars at this moment, and she added:
"There's a housekeeper and several aunties helping out. The flowers in the garden are so beautiful, there are many of them I don't know the names of, and there's also a slide and swings specifically for children."

Dad also took us to Ocean Park to see the dolphin show; they jumped so high! We also rode the cable car to the top of the mountain, and looking down at night, the lights below were so dense, it looked like a galaxy fallen from the sky to the ground…

The two children's innocent yet enthusiastic descriptions seemed to slowly unfold before their family a dazzling and luxurious picture, completely different from the shikumen they lived in every day, or even from this comfortable garden villa.

It was a world almost straight out of a movie, filled with private pools, personal butlers, dream gardens, and top-notch entertainment.

The adults listened with amazement, their faces filled with surprise, envy, and undisguised longing.

"Wow, you even have a private swimming pool? How big must the yard be to fit it?" Sister-in-law Li Guihua couldn't help but exclaim in amazement, subconsciously glancing at the already spacious living room in front of her.

"A housekeeper? Like the kind in old movies, wearing a crisp uniform, who arranges everything perfectly?" Second Sister Yang Xiangmei couldn't contain her curiosity and asked.

Zhang Xiuying listened with rapt attention, her eyes darting around as she murmured, "What kind of heavenly life must one lead like this..."

"Guangming, when we have the chance in the future, let's all go and see it, young and old, and broaden our horizons, okay?" She looked at her son, her eyes full of expectation.

Yang Guangming smiled and readily agreed: "Of course, Mom. Transportation will definitely become more and more convenient in the future, and there will be plenty of opportunities. When the time is right, our whole family will go for a trip."

The family's laughter and chatter about their experiences on Hong Kong Island lasted for about half an hour.

Yang Guangming glanced at his watch and, seeing that it was getting late, suggested that they head to the restaurant.

Today, with Yang Guangming continuously transferring large amounts of foreign exchange into China for settlement, and with Wang Qingyu providing meticulous subsidies to his family, the Yang family's economic conditions have already achieved a qualitative leap.

Dining out together is no longer a luxury reserved for holidays and special occasions; it has become a common convenience and a way to add enjoyment to life.

The family took several taxis and soon arrived at the well-known "Green Willow Village" restaurant in the city center.

The private room that Wang Qingyu had booked was spacious and elegant, with light ink paintings hanging on the walls, two large round tables covered with clean white tablecloths, and the tableware neatly arranged and shiny, all ready to go.

After we were seated, a variety of exquisite local dishes were served one after another, each one a feast for the eyes, nose, and palate.

However, the focus of the dinner tonight did not linger on the Yang family who had just returned and their experiences in Hong Kong. Instead, it quietly and naturally shifted to the second sister, Yang Xiangmei.

At the dinner table, Yang Guangming keenly noticed that his second sister, Yang Xiangmei, seemed much more relaxed than before, and her eyes held a light and gentleness rarely seen in the past.

The way Zhang Xiuying, the mother, looked at her second sister was filled with a special, almost undisguised concern and a subtle joy. She would occasionally put food on her sister's plate and whisper a few words to her.

A slight thought crossed his mind. He picked up the teacup in front of him, took a sip, and casually steered the conversation: "Second sister, have you been busy with your studies at school lately? You look much better than before, and you seem more energetic."

Upon hearing this, Yang Xiangmei's face flushed slightly. She lowered her eyes shyly and smiled, her fingers unconsciously stroking the rim of her teacup. She did not answer immediately.

Seeing this, Lin Jianyue, who was sitting next to her, quietly nudged Yang Guangming's arm under the table and gave him a knowing look that said, "You've hit the nail on the head."

Zhang Xiuying, unable to contain her joy, beamed with happiness, as if she had been waiting for her son's question. She immediately picked up the conversation, her voice rising in a trill:
"Guangming, you don't know yet, do you? Your second sister has finally found a boyfriend! This is such great news!"

"Oh? That's great news! Huge good news!" Yang Guangming put down his teacup, revealing a perfectly measured look of surprise and interest. "Second Sister, tell us quickly, what kind of comrade is he? How did you meet him?"

With the well-intentioned additions from his family and Yang Xiangmei's slightly shy yet undeniably happy narration, Yang Guangming roughly understood the whole situation.

The other party was Yang Xiangmei's classmate, surnamed Chen, named Zhiyuan, and also a native of Shanghai.

Similar to Xiangmei's situation, he had also been married, but not due to incompatibility. His wife unfortunately passed away from an accident a few years ago, leaving behind a boy who was slightly older than Xiaowen.

Chen Zhiyuan is a gentle and down-to-earth person who is sincere to others. He excels academically at school and is highly appreciated by his teachers.

His family background is considered quite good in Shanghai; both his parents are intellectuals with stable jobs and incomes.

"He...he's been pursuing your second sister for a while now."

Zhang Xiuying was afraid that her youngest son wouldn't understand the inside story, so she carefully explained: "It's your second sister. She always has a knot in her heart and can't get over her own hurdle."

She worries that if she is assigned to work in another city after graduating next year, she will face the situation of being separated from her family again.
She had previously married a man from Northeast China and suffered enough from being separated from her family; she was terrified of this.

So, although she also had feelings for Zhiyuan, she hadn't dared to agree because of this practical issue.

It turns out that Yang Xiangmei had experienced a failed marriage to a distant place and returned to Shanghai exhausted, filled with deep fear and concern about leaving the city and her family again.

Although she had a good impression of Chen Zhiyuan's character and sincerity, the sword of Damocles hanging over her head—the "job assignment after graduation"—made her hesitant to take that step, fearing she might repeat the same mistake.

Zhang Xiuying saw her second daughter's worries and struggles and was very anxious.

Knowing that her youngest son, Yang Guangming, and the capable Wang Qingyu had many connections and resources, she took an opportunity to privately approach Wang Qingyu and subtly inquired whether he could lend a hand when Xiangmei graduated and was assigned a job next year, ensuring that she could stay in Shanghai to work.

For Wang Qingyu now, this is indeed not a difficult task.

As Qiming Capital's chief representative in China, he frequently interacts with various relevant departments in Shanghai, including the municipal government, the planning commission, and the personnel bureau. With Qiming's strong capital background and his own excellent interpersonal skills, he has long established a broad and effective network of contacts.

Coordinating the placement of a recent college graduate and keeping them in the city is entirely within his capabilities.

He immediately patted his chest and assured Zhang Xiuying with certainty, telling her to rest assured.

Only after her biggest and most realistic concerns were dispelled did the barriers in Yang Xiangmei's heart truly begin to loosen.

In addition, Chen Zhiyuan was indeed very sincere, showing great patience and tolerance. He not only did not urge her, but was even more considerate and caring. With her parents' constant encouragement and subtle urging, she finally let down all her guard half a month ago and nodded in agreement to officially start dating.

"That's great!"

After hearing this, Yang Guangming was genuinely happy for his second sister, and a weight was lifted from his heart. "As long as the person is reliable, of good character, treats his second sister well, and lives a sincere life together, nothing else matters."

Since Qingyu has assured us there won't be any problems, the job assignment will definitely be finalized. Second Sister, you just need to focus on your final year of studies, pursue your love, and enjoy life.

Seeing that even her most promising youngest son had expressed his support and approval, Zhang Xiuying was overjoyed, her wrinkles at the corners of her eyes crinkling into chrysanthemum shapes as she smiled. She then said:

"Yes, the huge weight that had been hanging over my heart for so long has finally been lifted off my feet with a 'thud'!"

Here's what I think: they're both not young anymore, and they've both been through a lot and understand the hardships of life. Since they both feel they're a good match and their personalities are compatible, why not wait until they graduate next year, get their jobs sorted out, and then get married and start a proper family?

"That's all settled now. This matter that has been weighing on your father's and your mother's mind for so many years is finally resolved."

Yang Guangming nodded, indicating his complete agreement: "Mom's consideration is correct. This arrangement is very prudent. Second Sister, please arrange a time when you can invite Comrade Chen Zhiyuan to have a casual meal. We can meet him and let the family get to know each other first."

He thought to himself that his second sister's first marriage was unfortunate, and she suffered a lot after marrying far away in Northeast China. This second marriage choice was crucial, as it would determine her happiness for the rest of her life.

He had to meet Chen Zhiyuan in person, and with his experience and insight from two lifetimes, he would make sure his second sister made the right choice, consider things more carefully, learn from Luo Xingbang's experience, and try his best to ensure that she could find a truly reliable partner this time who was someone she could entrust her life to and support her through it all.

Seeing the radiance and shyness that belonged to women in love that had returned to his second sister's face, Yang Guangming felt sincerely gratified. His gaze also fell on his eldest sister, Yang Xianglan, who was sitting quietly to the side, carefully taking care of her daughter Honghong as she ate.

In stark contrast to her second sister's upcoming new chapter in life, the eldest sister, Yang Xianglan, has always maintained an exceptionally firm and clear attitude towards remarriage.

Since moving back to her parents' home with her children a few years ago, the eldest sister seems to have devoted all her energy and hope to raising Honghong and Amao to grow up healthily, as well as taking good care of her aging parents.

No matter how earnestly Zhang Xiuying and Yang Yongkang tried to persuade her, or even how the Yang brothers subtly probed her, she made it clear that she would never consider remarrying.

In her own words, "I now have a son and a daughter, a stable job, a comfortable and carefree life, my parents are still in good health, and my younger siblings are all harmonious and filial, each with their own future."

What more could I ask for in this life? Why would I need to find someone else and add to my troubles and worries?

I'm perfectly content as I am now, taking care of my children and respecting my parents. I feel more at ease and peaceful than ever before.

Seeing that she was determined and resolute, and observing that her current life was indeed peaceful, fulfilling and content, with no trace of the sorrow and depression of the past, her family gradually understood her choice and stopped trying to persuade her. Instead, they respected her decision and provided her with more care and support in her daily life.

This joyous welcome dinner eventually came to a close with a pleasant discussion about the second sister's love life and future plans.

In the evening, after returning to the garden villa in the JA district, we saw off the families of our eldest brother Yang Guanghui and second brother Yang Guangyao, who were going back to their own homes. Only Yang Guangming and his wife, our parents, and the families of our eldest sister Yang Xianglan and second sister Yang Xiangmei, who also lived there, remained in the large villa.

The hustle and bustle of the day recedes like the tide, leaving the villa exceptionally peaceful and serene at night.

Outside the window, unknown summer insects chirped tirelessly in the courtyard, their clear and rhythmic sounds only adding to the peaceful and cozy atmosphere inside.

After a day of excitement and travel fatigue, the children were already yawning and were urged to go back to their rooms to wash up and settle in, and soon fell asleep.

Yang Guangming and Lin Jianyue returned to the spacious and comfortable master bedroom with its own bathroom on the second floor.

Yang Guangming pulled Lin Jianyue to sit on the single sofa by the window, took her slightly cool hand, and said with a slightly solemn expression, "Jianyue, there's something I want to discuss with you."

"What is it? Tell me." Lin Jianyue turned her head slightly, her face showing a hint of weariness, but she still looked at her husband with tender eyes.

Yang Guangming cut straight to the point, "My second sister's wedding is a big and joyous occasion. I'm thinking of preparing a substantial dowry for her so that she can have a grand wedding and feel more confident in her husband's family in the future."

Lin Jianyue nodded without hesitation, her tone gentle: "That's only right. Second Sister's previous marriage was so difficult, she suffered so much. Now that she has finally found a suitable partner, we, as her younger brother and sister-in-law, should give her our full support, both out of courtesy and reason."

What are you planning to give as a gift? Like before, gold jewelry, or…?

After a moment of contemplation, Yang Guangming looked at his wife with a firm gaze and said clearly, "I'm considering giving her a house directly."

"A house?" Lin Jianyue asked, slightly surprised.

Although she knew her husband was always generous to his family, giving away real estate was still an extremely rare and astonishing gesture in an era when most people were still racking their brains for housing allocated by their work units.

This is not just about the value of money; it represents a substantial gift that can fundamentally change one's life.

"Yes, the house."

Yang Guangming nodded affirmatively and patiently explained his thoughts to his wife, "In the past few years, through Qingyu's operations in China, I have successively purchased more than a dozen other properties in addition to this villa."

Most of them are garden villas in good locations with appreciation potential, intended for future family use or long-term holding.

However, there were also a few sets, which were one-room shikumen houses with decent locations and layouts. They were bought relatively early, and the prices were reasonable at the time, with each set costing only about three or four thousand yuan.

When I bought them, I had this in mind that I could perhaps give one to each of my older brothers and sisters in the future, to help them completely improve their living conditions.

He paused, observing his wife's expression, and continued earnestly:
"You know, when I first went back to China to visit my family, the gold jewelry and imported watches I gave my parents, siblings, and others were worth far more than a house if you looked at their actual value. But those are ultimately consumables; they'll get old after a while, and there's also the risk of them being lost."

But a house is different. It is a place to settle down and make a living. It is a real, tangible property that can be passed down to future generations.

The meaning is completely different.

Having their own detached house will make the older siblings feel more comfortable and secure, and their quality of life will improve significantly.

Not only my second sister, but also my eldest brother, second brother, and eldest sister—I plan to send one set to each of them as well.

Lin Jianyue listened quietly to her husband's explanation, without showing any displeasure, resentment, or opposition on her face.

Although her month-long experience on Hong Kong Island did not allow her to fully adapt to or accept the extreme, almost cold luxury and alienation, it certainly broadened her horizons and opened her mind.

Compared to the vast assets that Yang Guangming now controls, and his ability to spend lavishly and strategize effectively in Hong Kong's financial markets and business negotiations, these few shikumen properties, with a total value of only ten or twenty thousand yuan, are indeed not an astonishing expenditure.

More importantly, she was kind, open-minded, and reasonable by nature, and knew that her husband was extremely sentimental and cared deeply for his family.

It was his tireless support and assistance that enabled the Yang family, originally an ordinary working-class family, to achieve its current prosperity in just a few years, characterized by filial piety, harmonious relationships, and a thriving life.

She wholeheartedly supports her husband's decision to ensure that all his brothers and sisters can live better, more securely, and more happily.

She gripped Yang Guangming's broad, warm hand firmly in return, her tone calm yet resolute, without the slightest hint of reluctance:

"I understand what you mean. You're doing this for the good of the family, out of consideration for family ties, and genuinely thinking of your older siblings."

This is a great thing, and I have absolutely no objection.

Our older siblings have indeed sacrificed a lot for this family and for you. Now that we have the ability to help them completely solve this major housing problem and make them live in spacious and comfortable conditions, it is only right that we do so.

A harmonious and supportive family is better than anything else.

Looking into his wife's clear and understanding eyes, and listening to her reasonable and righteous words, Yang Guangming felt a surge of warmth in his heart.

Not all wives are able to be so magnanimous and understanding when faced with their husbands giving such a large sum of money to their siblings, especially in an era when material wealth was not abundant.

He gripped Lin Jianyue's hand tightly, his voice low and full of emotion: "Jianyue, thank you. Thank you for understanding me and supporting me."

Lin Jianyue smiled slightly, her smile gentle and tinged with weariness, yet all the more sincere: "No need to thank me, we are family, husband and wife. Your family is my family."

With his wife's unwavering understanding and support, Yang Guangming's last lingering concerns vanished, leaving him feeling incredibly grounded and resolute.

The next day was Sunday. The morning sunlight streamed in through the bright windows of the dining room as the family sat around the long table to enjoy breakfast.

The atmosphere was relaxed and pleasant.

After dinner, Yang Guangming found a time when everyone was doing their own thing and there were fewer people in the living room, and invited his parents to the study on the second floor.

He closed the door, slightly blocking out the birdsong from the courtyard outside the window, and then gave his parents a detailed report and explanation of his well-thought-out decision to give each of his eldest brother, second brother, eldest sister, and second sister a one-room shikumen house.

After listening to his son's words, Yang Yongkang paused in mid-air, his brow furrowing slightly. He remained silent for a moment before slowly placing the teacup back on the table, his tone carrying the characteristic caution of an elder:
"Guangming, your intentions are good, no doubt about it."

Helping each other is a family tradition and a virtue among siblings.

But... giving away a house directly, isn't that a bit too much of a gift?

I'm afraid that giving them such an expensive gift all at once will make them feel burdened and unworthy of it. I'm also afraid that... I'm afraid that over time, it will encourage them to expect something for nothing and become dependent on me.

This isn't because Dad doesn't trust your older siblings; it's just that everything needs to be done with discretion.

When Zhang Xiuying first heard this, she was also taken aback, and her pupils dilated slightly.

But then she thought of her son's unfathomable wealth, the palatial villas and private swimming pools on Hong Kong Island, and compared them to these few shikumen houses worth a few thousand dollars, and she felt that... it was acceptable?
She looked at her youngest son's calm and confident face, her lips moved but she didn't speak immediately, her eyes filled with surprise, pride and a hint of worry similar to her husband's.

Yang Guangming fully understood his father's concerns. He knew that his father was considering the long-term harmony of the family and the protection of the independence of his other children.

He patiently and clearly explained further: "Dad, Mom, I understand your concerns, and I have considered them."

But I did this mainly for several reasons.

First, housing is a basic human need. Having a house that is completely their own, with clear property rights and a detached house, would make my older brother and his family feel more at ease and comfortable.

No need to worry about any changes; this is a genuine way to improve your quality of life and happiness, more practical than giving any gold or silver jewelry.

Secondly, speaking of which, the gold jewelry and imported watches I gave to my older brother and sister when I first came back to visit relatives, if calculated according to the actual purchasing power and scarcity at the time, were worth at least more than this house.

But those things are ultimately external possessions, consumables, while a house is an asset, a foundation, and can be passed down through generations, so the meaning is completely different.

Third, and most importantly, I do have the ability now, and I hope my family can live a better and more comfortable life.

Seeing that they live well and have no worries about their livelihood, I finally feel truly at ease and happy.

He paused, his tone becoming more sincere, and looked directly at his parents: "As for whether it will put a psychological burden on my older brothers and sisters, or make them dependent, I believe that my eldest brother, second brother, eldest sister, and second sister are not that kind of people."

They each have their own jobs, and they all work hard and live their lives steadily in their respective positions.

I gave the house as a small token of my brother's appreciation, a belated way of repaying them for their past sacrifices for the family and for taking care of me.

My only wish is to see our big family live in peace and prosperity, with everyone's lives getting better and better, and the family becoming more and more united and harmonious.

Yang Yongkang listened quietly to his son's clear and logical analysis, and looked at his calm, firm and unwavering gaze, feeling a surge of emotions in his heart.

The youngest son is no longer the naive young man he once was, the one who needed constant guidance and whose future he had to worry about.

His broad vision, grand perspective, thorough consideration, and extraordinary methods have far exceeded the imagination of this old-fashioned worker.

He knew that his youngest son was deeply attached to family ties, but he acted with his own principles and foresight, and was by no means a person who blindly gave alms or acted on impulse.

He pondered for a long time, his fingers unconsciously tracing the rim of his teacup. His gaze swept over the family photo displayed in the study, and finally he slowly nodded, letting out a soft sigh, his tone carrying a hint of relief and letting go.

"That's enough, that's enough. You're the pillar of our family now, the real head of the household."

Your knowledge and vision are far beyond those of us old folks.

Since you have considered everything so thoroughly, discussed it with Jian Yue, and Jian Yue is so understanding and righteous... then let's do it your way.

only……"

He raised his eyes and looked at his son seriously. "You must be careful to maintain the right balance and pay attention to the methods you use. Make sure they understand that this is a bond between siblings."

"Dad, don't worry, I know what to do. I will pay attention to the way I do it and make sure that my older brothers and sisters accept this gift happily and with a clear conscience."

When Yang Guangming saw that his father had finally relented, a relieved smile appeared on his face, and he breathed a sigh of relief.

It just so happens that today is a day off, and the eldest brother Yang Guanghui's family and the second brother Yang Guangyao's family also arrived at the garden villa one after another in the morning.

With the addition of the parents and older sisters who already lived here, it was a rare occasion for the whole family to gather together. The living room was filled with the laughter of children and the conversations of adults, creating a lively and warm atmosphere.

Seeing that the time was ripe, Yang Guangming took advantage of the moment when everyone was drinking tea, eating fruit, and chatting in the living room to formally announce his decision to give away the property in a relaxed but clear tone.

"...That's roughly the situation."

Through Qingyu, I bought several empty one-room shikumen houses in several nearby alleys over the past two years.

The house isn't very new, but it has a solid overall structure, a regular layout, clear property rights, and no disputes.

With a little tidying up and painting, it's ready to live in right away, very convenient.

My plan is for each of your four families—eldest brother, second brother, eldest sister, and second sister—to receive one set.

His voice fell clear and steady, and the once lively and noisy living room instantly fell into an eerie silence.

Yang Guanghui, Li Guihua, Yang Guangyao, Yue Xinlei, as well as Yang Xianglan and Yang Xiangmei, all stood frozen in place as if they had been frozen in place.

His face was filled with utter astonishment, disbelief, and immense shock!
Although they all knew that their younger brother, Yang Guangming, was now extremely wealthy, the gesture of "directly giving away a house" still far exceeded the limits of their wildest imagination.

This has completely transcended the scope of "helping" or "gifts," and is almost a gift that changes a person's destiny.

"Guangming, this...this is unacceptable! Absolutely unacceptable!"

The eldest brother, Yang Guanghui, was the first to recover from his shock. He stood up abruptly, his face flushed with excitement, waving his hands vigorously, his tone urgent and sincere:
"This...this is too precious! How can we accept such an expensive gift from you! This house...a whole house! You've already helped us so much! This is absolutely unacceptable!"

"Yes, little brother!"

Second Brother Yang Guangyao also stood up, his brows furrowed, waving his hands repeatedly, his voice rising slightly with excitement, "We can't take this house! We absolutely can't take it!"
You're making a lot of money now, that's true, but your money didn't come from thin air. It's earned through hard work and taking risks outside!
As your older brothers, we're not capable of helping you in any way, so how could we... how could we take such a huge advantage of you? What kind of talk is this?!

The eldest sister, Yang Xianglan, was so anxious that she stood up abruptly from the sofa, her eyes instantly reddening, her voice choked with sobs:

"Guangming! I appreciate your kindness, I really do! But I really can't accept this house!"
I'm living at home now, which is already very good, extremely good! I can't accept such expensive things from you anymore..."

Even Yang Xiangmei, who was deeply in love and genuinely needed to consider a future wedding home, felt overwhelmed by the weight of the gift and hurriedly joined her older siblings in declining it: "Little brother, this...this is too much! A house...this gift is too heavy, I...I can't accept it..."

They argued vehemently and emotionally, their feelings extremely complicated.

There was both instinctive shock and unease at the unexpected and incredibly generous gift, and immense gratitude for his brother's generosity and consideration for family ties.

At a deeper level, perhaps there is also a lingering sense of pride belonging to the eldest brother or sister, a reluctance to completely depend on their younger brother, and a desire to maintain some dignity and independence.

Yang Guangming had anticipated their strong reaction. He waited patiently and quietly until his older siblings calmed down and finished expressing their initial shock and refusal.

She spoke in her usual calm and sincere tone, her voice not loud, but clearly reaching everyone's ears: "Big brother, second brother, big sister, second sister, please don't rush to refuse, let me finish what I have to say, okay?"

His gaze slowly swept over the excited and uneasy faces of each of his older siblings, his eyes calm and warm:
"My motivation for giving away the house is very simple."

First, this is not an unbearable burden for me; I have the ability to manage it.

Secondly, and most importantly, I believe that a house is the foundation of a home and the basis for a stable life.

Only when you have a place that is completely your own, where you don't have to worry about it being taken back or sharing it with others, can you truly feel at ease and have the confidence to pursue a better life.

You are my dearest flesh and blood, among the closest people to me in this world. I hope that each of you, and each of your families, can live comfortably, peacefully, and happily.

His tone became increasingly earnest, filled with undeniable concern and affection: "You can think about it. The watches and gold jewelry I gave you when I first came back. They'll get old after wearing them for a long time, and there's a possibility of them being lost by accident. Their actual value is higher than this house, but they are consumables."

But the house will always be there, providing shelter from the wind and rain. It's a tangible asset that our Yang family descendants can see and benefit from; it's the foundation and a legacy of our family.

He paused, then turned his gaze to his parents, who had been sitting silently but whose expressions spoke volumes: "I have discussed this matter carefully with Mom and Dad, as well as your younger brother and sister-in-law, Jianyue. They all agree with my idea and support me in doing this."

Yang Yongkang cleared his throat at the opportune moment and spoke in a deep voice:
"Alright, stop arguing and stop refusing."

Guangming has the heart and the ability; it is his kindness and the blessing that you brothers and sisters have accumulated over many lifetimes!
What he just said is reasonable and logical. A house is indeed fundamental.

Since he has already made up his mind, discussed it with us, and Jian Yue has agreed, then you can accept it without worry! This is your brother's heartfelt wish for you!

He glanced at his children, his tone becoming more serious: "From now on, the family must unite and help each other, making our own lives prosperous and harmonious. Don't let down Guangming's earnest wishes, and don't let outsiders laugh at our family! That's the most important thing!"

Zhang Xiuying, standing to the side, wiped her eyes, which had become moist without her noticing, with a mixture of pride and emotion, and advised:

“Your dad is right! Every word he says makes sense! We are all brothers and sisters from the same mother, sharing the same blood!”

Guangming is now successful and capable, and he is willing to help you. This is a great thing, and it is thanks to the good deeds of our Yang family ancestors!
You can accept it without worry! It'll be more convenient for you all to live close by and visit each other. Seeing you siblings living well makes your father and me happier than if we'd eaten honey!

The head of the family made the final decision, and with the mother's emotional and reasonable persuasion, Yang Guanghui, Yang Guangyao, Yang Xianglan, and Yang Xiangmei finally stopped their fierce opposition.

They looked at each other and saw in each other's eyes a tremendous, indescribable emotion, as well as a hint of longing for the world that was about to be their own.

A shikumen house with its own courtyard!
That's a living condition that many people in Shanghai would desperately want and long for but might never be able to achieve!

Having a house that is entirely your own means no longer having to share a kitchen and bathroom with your neighbors, it means more privacy, a more comfortable and free space, a real estate that can be passed down to your children and grandchildren, and a huge leap in the quality of life!
“Guangming… Brother, I…” Yang Guanghui, this grown man, choked up completely.

He blinked hard, trying to force back the tears welling up in his eyes. He stepped forward and patted Yang Guangming's shoulder heavily, a thousand words condensed in that simple gesture and trembling voice, "...Thank you! Brother...on behalf of your sister-in-law and the children, thank you!"

"Little brother... second brother... second brother won't say anything more! I'll remember it all!" Yang Guangyao's eyes were red and his voice was thick with nasal congestion. He gripped Yang Guangming's hand tightly and shook it hard, everything was understood without words.

Yang Xianglan and Yang Xiangmei were already in tears. They stepped forward and took their brother's hands, one on each side, their voices choked with emotion.

"Little brother..."

"bright……"

It is a feeling of endless gratitude, as well as pride, warmth, and security in having such a younger brother.

Seeing his older siblings finally accept it, and witnessing the emotion and hope for the future on their faces, Yang Guangming felt a surge of immense satisfaction and happiness. A genuine, heartfelt, and warm smile appeared on his face.

"That's right! We're family, so we don't need to speak like outsiders."

I have the house keys and all the relevant documents.

The locations and interior layouts are all pretty much the same. I'll have Qingyu arrange for you to visit each of them in person.

Choose whichever apartment you like, or whichever one you think is closer to your workplace or school.

Once everything is settled, I'll quickly tidy up and decorate so I can move in as soon as possible and start my new life in the new house!

The atmosphere in the living room instantly transformed from shock and resistance to unparalleled warmth, enthusiasm, and hope.

Although the children didn't fully understand what exactly was happening between the adults, they sensed the joy and excitement in the air and laughed happily, running around the adults.

The eldest brother, Yang Guanghui, and the second brother, Yang Guangyao, immediately huddled together and began excitedly whispering about which alleyway was more convenient, how to simply renovate the house, and whether to add a small study. Their faces were filled with boundless anticipation for the future.

The eldest and second eldest sisters held Lin Jianyue's hands, repeatedly expressing their gratitude, and discussing how to arrange the furniture and what color curtains to choose.

Sitting on the sofa, Zhang Xiuying and Yang Yongkang watched their children living in harmony, supporting each other, and thriving. Their faces were filled with immense satisfaction, contentment, and happiness. They felt that they had no regrets in this life.

Because of the bright sunshine, the Yang family, an ordinary working-class family that was once crowded in a cramped Shikumen house, is becoming more united, prosperous, stable and happy at an unprecedented speed and with unprecedented strength, and is truly moving towards prosperity.

Yang Guangming himself is also doing his best to protect his family's happiness, realize his own ambitions, and move forward steadily step by step in the tide of the times, leaving solid and profound footprints.

He lived a happy and fulfilling life.

Perhaps due to some mysterious effect brought about by time travel, his mental strength seemed to have been enhanced to some extent, and his physical condition also underwent a subtle but positive improvement. In this life, he lived a long life.

His life was long and fulfilling; he lived to the ripe old age of 110, which was in 2062.

In the peaceful final moments of his life, his mind remained clear. He often lay in his rocking chair, basking in the warm sunlight, contemplating questions that transcended this life.

Is there a next life? Will the refrigerator space that accompanied him through time and changed his destiny—this magical cheat code—continue to follow him?
After he became one of the wealthiest people of his time, the supplies in his refrigerator that were automatically replenished daily—supplies that would be quite precious to ordinary people—had long lost their practical significance to him.

Therefore, he began to consciously replace and stock up on items in the space regularly long ago.

The items he stored were not numerous individually, but they were diverse in variety.

He carefully selected them all to ensure his survival and safety in any environment; they were all highly practical or extremely valuable items.

If he truly has a next life, and if the "cheat code" of the refrigerator space continues to faithfully follow him...

He hopes that the items that appear daily will be the more valuable and practical things that he has carefully prepared and replaced.

This will be a unique legacy and starting point he leaves for the unknown future.

The sunlight outside the window was just right, and a warm breeze gently stirred the curtains, as if whispering a long story about time, life, and possibilities.

His thoughts drifted away, sinking into a warm and hopeful halo.

P.S.: The new story begins in the next chapter. (End of this chapter)