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

On Sunday morning, when Yang Guangming woke up, the sky outside the window was already bright.

He lay in bed without getting up immediately, listening to the faint sound of the factory's broadcast in the distance, and pondering his plans for the day.

Today is my older brother's first day off since officially starting his job. The two brothers had already made plans during a phone call a couple of days ago to treat everyone to a meal in the county town today to thank everyone who helped with Yang Ximing's job.

The eldest brother notified Section Chief Huo, Director Ma, and his superior, Director Fan. All three agreed to attend at noon.

Yang Guangming informed Lin Guodong and He Dongliang. Both of them had been very helpful in this matter, especially Lin Guodong, who had been a great supporter from the very beginning, from making the connection to organizing the dinner.

Of course, they couldn't be left out of this thank-you banquet.

Yang Guangming glanced at the sky outside and estimated it was about 7:30. He sat up and began to wash up.

He fetched half a basin of cold water from the public washroom and used a towel to wash his face and neck. The cold water stimulated his skin, completely waking him up.

After washing up, he sat slowly on the edge of the bed, thinking about the gift he should bring when he visited Section Chief Huo again today.

Last time I visited Commander Huo's house, I brought practical and presentable gifts. This time, it's my elder brother's first visit since officially joining the company, so the significance is different, and the gift needs to be prepared carefully.

He had already made an appointment with his older brother; he would go to his brother's dormitory first, and then they would visit Chief Huo's home together.

Now it's time to prepare the gifts for the visit.

Yang Guangming's consciousness settled into his mind, and he began to select suitable items from the refrigerator's storage space.

He thought for a moment, then took out two cans of milk powder from his spatial storage. These were whole milk powder, packaged in tin cans, each weighing one pound. In those days, milk powder was an absolute rarity, especially this kind of tin-canned milk powder; it was practically unheard of in small towns.

Next, he took out two tubs of biscuits. The biscuit tubs were made of sheet metal, with delicate patterns printed on them, and each tub weighed one pound. These biscuits are crispy and have a rich milky flavor, making them suitable for the elderly and children.

Then came two packets of raisins. The raisins were wrapped in oil paper, each packet weighing one pound, the raisins plump and appealing in color. These raisins from XJ are a rare find even locally.

Finally, he took out a large bag of beef jerky. The beef jerky was air-dried using traditional methods, savory and chewy—a rare treat at this time of year. The bag weighed two pounds, a substantial amount.

Yang Guangming put these things one by one into the worn canvas shoulder bag.

The canvas bag was stuffed full and felt heavy in my hand.

He weighed it in his hand and nodded in satisfaction.

These gifts are both practical and presentable, and are considered quite valuable in this day and age, enough to express one's feelings. Most importantly, these are things that are hard to find even in a small county town, making them seem very sincere.

At ten o'clock, he slung his canvas bag over his shoulder, locked the dormitory door, and walked out of Building No. 4.

The factory area was much quieter than usual on Sunday. The poplar trees on both sides of the road swayed gently in the spring breeze, their new leaves already grown, lush and green, glistening in the sunlight.

Yang Guangming didn't linger in the factory and headed straight for the gate.

Stepping out of the pharmaceutical factory, the streets were already bustling. It was Sunday, and the streets were crowded. There were housewives carrying shopping baskets, young parents strolling with their children, and some rural villagers who were clearly in town on business.

Yang Guangming walked along the street towards the train station.

The dormitory of the eldest brother, Yang Ximing, was actually an office of the railway police station.

The railway police station didn't have many staff, but it occupied a small courtyard on its own. Considering that Yang Ximing had nowhere to live and needed a dormitory, the station simply vacated a secluded office for him to live in.

This was Yang Guangming's second time visiting his older brother's dormitory. The first time was on the day his brother started his job, when he helped move some of his daily necessities over, so he was quite familiar with the place.

After walking for about twenty minutes, a relatively neat cluster of brick and tile houses came into view; this was the railway police station. The houses in the courtyard were neater than ordinary residences, all being single-story buildings made of red bricks.

The courtyard wasn't large, and a white sign with black lettering hung at the entrance: Pingyang County Railway Police Station. The gate was open, revealing a small courtyard with a few poplar trees.

Yang Guangming greeted the gatekeeper, walked into the courtyard, and headed straight for the row of bungalows at the very back.

Yang Ximing's dormitory was at the very end of the last row, a relatively secluded room. Today, the dormitory door was open, and Yang Ximing walked straight in.

The dormitory room was simply furnished. A single bed stood against the wall, covered with a military green sheet, the blanket folded neatly like a tofu block. An old desk sat by the window, with a few books and an enamel mug on it. In the corner was a washbasin stand with a towel draped over it.

Yang Ximing was sitting at his desk reading a newspaper when he heard the noise and looked up. When he saw it was Yang Guangming, a smile immediately appeared on his face.

"The light has arrived? That's quite early. Please have a seat."

Yang Guangming walked into the room, took off the canvas bag from his shoulder, and placed it on the table.

Yang Guangming sat down on the edge of the bed, looking around the simple but tidy dormitory room. "How are you finding it? Are you getting used to it?"

"I'm used to it, I'm used to it." Yang Ximing stood up, picked up the thermos on the table, and poured water for Yang Guangming. "These conditions are much better than at home. There are electric lights, running water, and I can read books and newspapers at night. It's quite nice."

He handed the enamel mug to Yang Guangming; steam was rising from inside.

Yang Guangming took the jar and took a small sip. The water was warm, not hot.

"How's work? Is everything going smoothly?" he asked.

Yang Ximing sat down opposite him, a satisfied smile on his face: "It went smoothly. Director Fan is a nice person and took good care of me. My colleagues are also easy to get along with and didn't make things difficult for me, a newcomer."

He paused for a moment, then continued, "These past two days have mainly been spent getting familiar with the work. The work at the railway police station is a bit different from what I expected. It's not just about maintaining security at the station, but also about conducting safety patrols along the railway line. There's a lot to do, but it's quite interesting."

Yang Guangming nodded: "Take it slow, no rush. There will definitely be an adjustment period at the beginning. If you don't understand something, just ask more questions and learn more."

“I know,” Yang Ximing said. “The older colleagues in the institute are all very helpful; they’re willing to teach me anything I ask.”

The two brothers chatted about work for a while, and Yang Ximing's gaze fell on the canvas bag on the table.

"Guangming, is this a gift for Section Chief Huo?" he asked.

“Yes.” Yang Guangming pulled over his bag and opened it. “I prepared some things in advance. Take a look and see if they are suitable.”

As he spoke, he began taking things out of his bag.

Two cans of milk powder, they look very high-end.

Two tubs of biscuits, the metal tubs are exquisite and beautiful, clearly not something you can buy locally.

Two packets of raisins, the oil paper opened, reveal plump, purplish-black raisins emitting a faint sweet aroma.

Finally, there was a large bag of beef jerky, wrapped tightly in oil paper, but the rich aroma of meat was already emanating from it.

Yang Ximing stared wide-eyed at the pile of things on the table. He picked up a can of milk powder, examined it closely, then picked up a piece of beef jerky, smelled it, and a look of shock appeared on his face.

"Guangming, aren't these things too expensive?" he said somewhat uneasily. "Milk powder, biscuits, raisins, and such a big bag of beef jerky, how much did all this cost? And we'll have to spend a lot of money on favors, won't we?"

Yang Guangming smiled and said, "Brother, don't overthink it. I got all these things by trading my prey; I didn't spend any money."

He explained, “During my rest time, I occasionally go into the mountains to hunt, and I always have a good catch. I use these animals to trade for some rare items, which I save for a rainy day.”

Yang Ximing felt a pang of unease upon hearing this. He looked at the fine things on the table, then at his younger brother, his lips moved as if he wanted to say something, but he didn't know where to begin.

He knew very well that the person he should be most grateful to for this job was not Section Chief Huo, but his second younger brother.

From the very beginning, to gathering information, to contacting Lin Guodong to make connections, to preparing gifts to visit Section Chief Huo, and finally even the thank-you banquet after joining the company, it was all arranged by the second brother.

As the eldest brother, I did almost nothing except provide information about two pigs. Now that I've got the job, my younger brother even has to prepare a thank-you gift for me.

A complex mix of emotions welled up in Yang Ximing's heart. There was gratitude, shame, and an indescribable warmth.

Between brothers, some things don't need to be said too explicitly. He took a deep breath and patted Yang Guangming on the shoulder: "Guangming, brother... I'll remember this."

Seeing his elder brother's expression, Yang Guangming knew what he wanted to say, so he waved his hand and said, "Brother, we're brothers, there's no need to be so formal. Now that you have a stable job, things will only get better and better. That's enough."

He paused, then changed the subject: "By the way, how have you been getting along with your colleagues at the institute these past few days?"

Yang Ximing snapped out of his thoughts and said, "Everything is fine. There are eight people in the station, including me. Director Fan is the leader, there are two veteran police officers, and four young ones. I'm not that old, but I'm a few years older than the four young ones. They all call me Brother Yang."

"Director Fan thinks highly of me." Yang Ximing said with a smile. "He even talked to me yesterday, saying that he thinks I have a good physique and a steady personality, and plans to focus on training me. He might let me take on more field work in the future."

"That's a good thing." Yang Guangming nodded. "Fieldwork is tough, but it's good training and you can easily achieve results. If you work hard and produce good results, it won't be difficult for you to become a full-time employee."

"I just started working, it's not that easy to get a permanent position." Yang Ximing smiled honestly. "I'll be content if I can do my job well and avoid making mistakes."

The two brothers chatted for a while longer, and then Yang Guangming checked the time; it was almost eleven o'clock.

“Brother, we should get going,” he said. “First, we’ll visit Chief Huo’s family, then we’ll go to the restaurant. The host should arrive early so as not to keep them waiting.”

"Yes, yes, it's time to set off." Yang Ximing quickly stood up and straightened his clothes.

He was wearing a railway police uniform today, the insignia on his shoulder straps gleaming in the sunlight. Although it was just a very ordinary police uniform, it made him look exceptionally smart and upright.

Yang Guangming also stood up and put the gifts on the table back into the canvas bag.

"Brother, take these things." He handed the bag to Yang Ximing. "When we get to Chief Huo's house later, just say that you prepared these. It's our first formal visit, so we have to show sincerity."

Yang Ximing took the bag, hesitated for a moment, and said, "Is this...appropriate? You were the one who prepared this."

“What’s inappropriate about it?” Yang Guangming laughed. “We’re brothers, why be so formal? Besides, you’ll be dealing with Chief Huo from now on, and this visit is mainly to help you get closer to him. Of course, the gift should be given in your name.”

Yang Ximing thought about it and felt that his younger brother made sense, so he stopped refusing: "Okay, then I'll shamelessly accept it. In the future, when I have the ability, I will definitely make it up to you."

"Don't say that again." Yang Guangming waved his hand dismissively. "Let's go, don't waste time."

The two brothers walked out of the dormitory, locked the door, and headed out of the courtyard.

Section Chief Huo's dormitory is located in the railway station's staff quarters, very close to the railway police station, less than a ten-minute walk away.

The two walked side by side down the street, and many pedestrians looked at Yang Ximing with respect when they saw him wearing a police uniform.

Yang Ximing was clearly not yet fully accustomed to this gaze, appearing somewhat awkward, but mostly filled with pride. Yang Guangming noticed this and felt happy for his elder brother.

Soon, the two arrived at the railway station's staff quarters.

The same old gatekeeper was sitting in the gatehouse, drinking tea and reading a newspaper. When he saw Yang Ximing in his police uniform, he paused for a moment, then recognized him.

"Oh, young comrade, you're here again?" the old gatekeeper greeted with a smile, then looked at Yang Ximing, "And this is..."

"Grandpa, this is my older brother, Yang Ximing, a new police officer at the railway police station," Yang Ximing introduced. "We've come to visit Section Chief Huo today."

"Oh, a new police officer." The old gatekeeper looked Yang Ximing up and down and nodded. "You know Chief Huo's house, right? Number five in the third row."

"I know, thank you, sir." Yang Guangming thanked him and walked into the family compound with his older brother.

The courtyard was quiet; most family members were at home preparing lunch. The holly trees lining both sides of the road were lush and green, neatly trimmed.

The two quickly found seat number five in row three.

The courtyard gate was closed, and Yang Guangming went up and knocked on it.

"Coming, coming!" came a woman's voice from inside the house, followed by hurried footsteps.

The door opened, and Section Chief Huo's wife, Wang Xiuqin, appeared in the doorway. Today, she was wearing a floral blouse, her hair was neatly combed, and she had a warm smile on her face.

Seeing the sunlight, her eyes lit up: "The light has come? Come in quickly, come in quickly!"

Wang Xiuqin's gaze fell on Yang Ximing. Seeing that he was wearing a police uniform, she was taken aback for a moment, then realized, "This must be Ximing, right? I've heard Lao Huo mention you. Please come in!"

"Hello, Auntie, I'm Yang Ximing." Yang Ximing quickly bowed and greeted her, "I'm sorry to bother you today."

"Don't worry about disturbing us, come in quickly!" Wang Xiuqin warmly ushered the two into the courtyard.

Yang Ming could sense that Wang Xiuqin's enthusiasm today was much more genuine than last time. It seemed that the gift he gave her last time had pleased this aunt very much.

The two entered the house.

In the living room, Section Chief Huo was sitting at the table reading a newspaper, while Old Mrs. Huo sat in a chair against the wall, mending a piece of clothing.

Seeing Yang Guangming and Yang Ximing enter, Section Chief Huo put down his newspaper, stood up, and said with a smile, "Guangming, Ximing, welcome to my home."

Grandma Huo also looked up, revealing a gentle smile: "Guangming has arrived? This must be Ximing, right? Please have a seat."

"Hello, Grandma. Hello, Section Chief Huo." Yang Ximing quickly greeted them and placed the canvas bag in his hand on the table.

Yang Guangming also greeted them, and the group took their seats.

Wang Xiuqin was busy pouring tea. Section Chief Huo looked Yang Ximing up and down and nodded with satisfaction: "Ximing, you look really smart in this police uniform!"

Yang Ximing smiled somewhat embarrassedly: "I have to thank Section Chief Huo. If it weren't for your help, I wouldn't be able to put on this uniform."

"Don't be so polite, that's your own skill." Section Chief Huo waved his hand. "How's it going, are you settling in well?"

“I’m adapting well. Director Fan takes good care of me, and my colleagues are all very nice,” Yang Ximing replied.

"Old Fan is a good guy, honest and protective of his own," said Section Chief Huo. "Work hard under him, and he won't treat you unfairly."

Wang Xiuqin brought tea and placed it in front of everyone. Her gaze swept over the canvas bag on the table, her eyes filled with inquiry, but she didn't ask any questions.

Yang Guangming picked up his teacup and looked at Grandma Huo: "Grandma, how have you been lately? Is the donkey-hide gelatin you brought last time still effective?"

Grandma Huo put down her needlework and smiled, "It works, it works. Guangming, your donkey-hide gelatin is really good. I've been taking it for a few days and I feel much more energetic, and I sleep soundly at night."

Wang Xiuqin chimed in, "That's right! My mom used to always complain of dizziness and weakness. But since she took the donkey-hide gelatin you brought, she's felt much better. Guangming, thank you so much!"

"It's good that it works." Yang Guangming smiled. "Grandma's health is important. As long as it works, I'll have my friends send more over in the future. It's just that these things are hard to come by, so the quantity may not be too large each time."

Section Chief Huo quickly waved his hand: "Guangming, no need, no need. We already have enough, how can we keep making you spend money? Those things aren't cheap, don't make things too difficult for me."

"Chief Huo, please don't be so polite," Yang Guangming said earnestly. "Donkey-hide gelatin is a tonic, and it takes effect slowly. You have to take it for a long time to see results. Since I have the connections to get some, I naturally want to help Grandma. Don't worry, it won't be too much trouble. I'll just ask a friend for a word."

When Section Chief Huo was about to decline, Wang Xiuqin interjected, "Old Huo, Guangming is doing this out of good intentions, so please don't refuse. Mom's health is the most important thing. If she can really recover, that's something that money can't buy."

She turned to Yang Guangming, her face full of gratitude: "Guangming, then I'll trouble you. Just tell your aunt how much it costs, I can't let you spend your money for nothing."

“Auntie, you’re being too polite,” Yang Guangming said. “Chief Huo doesn’t treat me like an outsider. It’s only right for friends to help each other. Don’t worry about the money, I have a way.”

Yang Ximing listened from the side, secretly astonished. Only then did he realize that his second brother had brought such a valuable item as donkey-hide gelatin when he visited Commander Huo last time.

No wonder Section Chief Huo went to such lengths, not only helping me secure a job in the railway system, but also specially arranging such a good position as a police officer.

My second brother and Section Chief Huo have only known each other for a short time, and I, as the eldest brother, am truly ashamed of my lack of social skills.

He secretly resolved that he must work hard in the future and not let his younger brother down.

Seeing that Yang Guangming was determined, Section Chief Huo stopped refusing and said, "Guangming, I will remember this favor. If you need any help in the future, please don't hesitate to ask."

"Commander Huo, you're too kind," Yang Guangming said with a smile.

Yang Ximing then remembered the gifts on the table, quickly picked up the canvas bag, and opened it: "Chief Huo, Grandma, this is my first formal visit today, and I didn't know what to bring. This is just a small token of my appreciation, please don't find it offensive."

As he spoke, he began taking things out.

Two cans of milk powder, two tubs of biscuits, two bags of raisins, and a large bag of beef jerky.

These items were laid out on the table one by one, each one a rare find in this era.

Wang Xiuqin's eyes widened in disbelief. Milk powder! Biscuits! Raisins! Beef jerky! These things, even if you have money, you might not be able to buy them in this small county town.

Grandma Huo looked at the things on the table in surprise and waved her hands repeatedly, saying, "Ximing, you're wasting so much money! How can we accept so many good things?"

Section Chief Huo frowned as well: "Ximing, what are you doing? You came all this way, why did you bring so much stuff? Take it back!"

Yang Ximing said sincerely, "Chief Huo, Grandma, please listen to me. I owe everything I have today to Chief Huo's help. I will never forget this kindness. These things are nothing, just a token of my appreciation. If you don't accept them, you're treating me like an outsider."

Yang Guangming chimed in, "Chief Huo, my brother is an honest man, not one for sweet talk. He prepared these things specially. If you don't accept them, he won't feel at ease going back."

Wang Xiuqin looked at the good things on the table, really reluctant to let go. She looked at Section Chief Huo, her eyes filled with obvious anticipation.

Huo Duan sighed. He knew that Yang Ximing wouldn't feel at ease if he didn't accept the gift today. Besides, his wife's eyes clearly showed that she wanted these things.

He hesitated for a moment, then finally relented: "Alright, since you've said so, we'll accept the things. But this is a one-time exception. If you bring anything again next time, I'll really be angry."

Upon hearing her husband's agreement, Wang Xiuqin immediately beamed with joy: "That's right, that's right, Ximing, you're so honest. Next time you come home, please don't bring anything."

Grandma Huo smiled and said, "Ximing, thank you, that's very kind of you."

Yang Ximing breathed a sigh of relief and smiled, "It's my pleasure, it's my pleasure."

The atmosphere became more harmonious.

The group chatted for a while longer, and then Yang Guangming checked the time; it was already 11:30.

He stood up: "Chief Huo, it's almost time. We should go to the restaurant. My brother is hosting today, so we need to go early and not keep the guests waiting." Chief Huo also glanced at the wall clock: "Yes, it's time to leave. Xiuqin, Mom, you two eat lunch on your own. Ximing, Guangming, and I will go to the restaurant."

Wang Xiuqin laughed and said, "Go ahead, go ahead, eat well, but don't drink too much."

Grandma Huo looked at her son and said, "You're not young anymore, drink less."

"Okay, Mom," Huo Duanzhang replied.

The three said goodbye to Wang Xiuqin and Old Mrs. Huo and left the house.

As he walked out of the railway family compound, Section Chief Huo looked at the tall and robust Yang Ximing and became more and more satisfied: "Ximing, you look very smart in your police uniform today. This uniform should be worn by you. When we get to the restaurant, Lao Fan and the others will see that I fought for this position for you. It's definitely a case of making the best use of your talents."

Yang Ximing smiled sheepishly: "I must thank Section Chief Huo and Director Fan for their guidance."

"Just do a good job." Section Chief Huo patted him on the shoulder.

The three walked side by side toward the Dongfanghong Hotel.

The Dongfanghong Hotel is located in the center of the county town, not too far from the train station, about a fifteen-minute walk.

On the way, Section Chief Huo asked Yang Ximing about his work, and Yang Ximing answered him one by one. Yang Ximing listened quietly most of the time, occasionally interjecting a few words.

He could sense that his elder brother's relationship with Section Chief Huo was gradually growing closer. This visit was very successful; with Section Chief Huo's help in the railway system, his brother's work and career advancement would be much smoother in the future.

After walking for about ten minutes, the sign for the Dongfanghong Hotel came into view.

This is one of the few large hotels in the county town, a two-story building with an impressive facade. The five large red characters "Dongfanghong Hotel" hang at the entrance, standing out prominently in the sunlight.

Although it's Sunday, the restaurant wasn't crowded. In this day and age, eating out is still a luxury for most people.

The three men entered the restaurant, and a waiter greeted them: "Would you like to eat, comrades?"

Yang Guangming said, "We booked a private room. Our surname is Yang."

The waiter checked the register and smiled, "Oh, Comrade Yang, the private room is on the second floor. Please follow me."

The three followed the waiter upstairs to a private room called "Sunny Hall".

The private room wasn't large, but it was very clean. A round table that could seat ten people was placed in the middle, covered with a white tablecloth. There were several paintings on the wall, depicting workers, peasants, and soldiers, very characteristic of the era.

"Please have a seat, gentlemen. Would you like to order now?" the waiter asked.

Yang Guangming checked the time; it was already 11:50. The others should be arriving soon.

"Let's order first," he said. "We'll serve the food after everyone arrives."

"Okay." The waiter took out the menu.

The menu is handwritten and changes daily.

Yang Guangming examined it carefully. Today's supply was better than expected.

There are two meat dishes: one is chicken stew with mushrooms, and the other is home-style stewed fish.

There are many more ingredients, including: hot and sour cabbage, stir-fried shredded potatoes, Mapo tofu, stir-fried greens, etc.

The staple foods are steamed buns and rice.

In these times, it's already a rare treat for restaurants to offer meat dishes, especially the mushroom stewed chicken, which is a rare and substantial meat dish.

Yang Guangming ordered two meat dishes and several vegetable dishes.

The waiter made a note of it and turned to leave.

Huo Duanzhang laughed and said, "Guangming, we're really lucky today. Mushroom stewed chicken, this dish is not easy to come by."

Yang Guangming said, "My older brother has always been lucky. Today he wants to treat everyone to a meal to thank them. The restaurant has fish and chicken, so everyone can eat to their heart's content."

As they were talking, the door to the private room was pushed open.

The first person to enter was Lin Guodong.

He wasn't wearing his police uniform today, but a gray Zhongshan suit, and he looked very smart. Seeing Yang Guangming and the other two, he greeted them with a smile: "Old Huo, Guangming, you're all here? You're here early."

"Brother Lin," Yang Guangming stood up, "we just arrived too. Please have a seat."

Lin Guodong sat down next to Section Chief Huo and looked Yang Ximing up and down: "This must be Ximing, right? He looks so different in a police uniform, so spirited!"

Yang Ximing quickly stood up: "Hello, Captain Lin. I'm so grateful for your help with my brother's matter last time, but I haven't had a chance to thank you in person."

Lin Guodong waved his hand: "No need to be so polite, we're all friends. You're in the public security system now, we'll be colleagues from now on, let's keep in touch."

"Definitely, definitely," Yang Ximing said solemnly.

He Dongliang arrived shortly after.

He was dressed neatly today, his hair combed perfectly. Upon entering and seeing Lin Guodong, he smiled and said, "Cousin, you're faster than me!"

He then greeted Section Chief Huo and Yang Guangming, before finally focusing his gaze on Yang Ximing: "This must be Ximing, right? He looks very energetic, a natural-born policeman. I am He Dongliang, Guangming's colleague."

"Hello, Captain He." Yang Ximing quickly greeted him, "My younger brother is at the factory, and we are very grateful for your care."

“We’re all brothers, we’ll take care of each other,” Ho Tung-leung said with a smile.

The five people sat down and started chatting.

About five minutes later, the door to the private room was pushed open again.

Two people came in this time—Director Ma and Director Fan.

Director Ma remained as refined as ever, wearing glasses and sporting a gentle smile. Director Fan, on the other hand, was in his forties, burly, and dark-skinned, clearly someone who worked outdoors year-round.

"Old Huo, Old Lin, are you both here?" Director Fan said loudly as soon as he entered the door.

Commander Huo stood up: "Old Fan, Old Ma, we've been waiting for you. Come, let me introduce you to Old Fan."

He pointed to Yang Guangming: "This is Yang Ximing's brother, Yang Guangming."

He then said to Yang Guangming, "Guangming, this is Director Fan, your brother's superior."

Yang Guangming quickly stood up and greeted the two men: "Hello, Director Fan, Director Ma, we meet again."

Director Fan shook hands with Yang Guangming: "Guangming, right? I've heard Lao Huo mention you. You're a true brother to Ximing, just as fit as him. Let's keep in touch."

Yang Guangming said, "Director Fan, without your permission, my brother wouldn't be able to become a railway police officer. Thank you for taking care of my brother."

"Don't mention it. Ximing is a good fit, and the institute just happens to need someone. It's a win-win situation," Director Fan said with a smile.

Director Ma also greeted the two brothers. He had met both of them before and was quite familiar with them.

Once everyone was present, the cold dishes were served first, and the seven people sat around the table. Yang Ximing poured everyone's wine glasses.

Yang Guangming, one of the hosts of the dinner, stood up and said, "Distinguished leaders and fellow elders, my brother and I are treating you all to dinner today to thank you for your help with his work."

He raised his glass: "This first drink is on behalf of my eldest brother and our whole family to thank you all. I'll drink it first as a sign of respect."

After saying that, drink it all in one gulp.

Everyone raised their glasses and drank them down.

The liquor was Fenjiu, with a high alcohol content. The fiery liquid slid down my throat, and a warming sensation spread from my stomach.

Lin Guodong put down his wine glass and said with a smile, "Guangming, Ximing, you're too kind. We're all friends, it's only right that we help each other out."

Section Chief Huo also said, "That's right. Ximing was able to get into the railway system mainly because he had the means—those two pigs, each weighing over 300 jin, are not something just anyone can afford. We just acted as matchmakers and handled the formalities; we didn't do much."

Director Fan nodded: "Old Huo is right. The incentive policy is right there; it's just a matter of whether you can seize the opportunity. Ximing, the fact that you managed to get those two pigs shows you're capable. Our railway system needs capable people. Work hard, and you'll definitely have a bright future."

Yang Ximing quickly replied, "You flatter me, leaders. I owe my success today entirely to everyone's help. Especially Section Chief Huo, without you, I wouldn't have been able to enter the railway system, let alone become a police officer."

He raised his glass: "Chief Huo, let me toast you. Thank you for your guidance. I will definitely work hard and live up to your expectations."

Section Chief Huo raised his glass and clinked it against Yang Ximing's: "Just do a good job."

The two drank it all in one gulp.

At this point, the waiter began serving the hot dishes.

The first hot dish was chicken stew with mushrooms. A large bowl was brought out, containing golden-yellow chicken and brown mushrooms, with a rich broth and an enticing aroma.

The moment this dish was served, everyone's eyes lit up.

In this era of oil and meat shortages, such a hearty meat dish is practically a luxury.

The second dish was a home-style stewed fish. The fish was quite large, weighing over three pounds, and was drizzled with a thick sauce, making it look very tempting.

Next came five vegetarian dishes: hot and sour cabbage with alternating red and white colors, stir-fried shredded potatoes with a golden and translucent appearance, Mapo tofu with a glistening red oil, braised green beans with a shiny sheen, and stir-fried leafy greens with a vibrant green color.

Finally, there was pickled mustard tuber and egg soup, which was fragrant and steaming hot.

The staple food was white flour steamed buns, served in a large basket, exuding the aroma of wheat.

This meal would definitely be considered luxurious in this day and age.

Director Fan looked at the dishes on the table and laughed, "Guangming, Ximing, you've really gone to great lengths today. This meal must have cost a lot of money, right?"

Yang Guangming said, "Director Fan, it's worth it to treat everyone to dinner today, no matter how much it costs. If it weren't for everyone's help, my brother wouldn't be sitting here."

Director Ma sighed, "I haven't had this mushroom stewed chicken for more than half a year. The last time I had it was at a banquet last year."

Lin Guodong picked up his chopsticks: "Then what are we waiting for? Let's start eating. The food smells so good, it makes my mouth water."

No one stood on ceremony and started eating.

Chicken and mushroom stew was the highlight of the day. The chicken was stewed until tender, and the mushrooms absorbed the broth perfectly, making them incredibly delicious. Everyone took a big piece and ate with gusto, their mouths greasy with flavor.

Homemade stewed fish is also very popular. The fish is tender and the sauce is rich; it's delicious with steamed buns.

Although the vegetarian dishes are ordinary, they are very oily and taste much better than what we usually make at home.

All seven were adult men, and all had large appetites. For a moment, the only sounds in the private room were chewing and the clinking of bowls and chopsticks.

After eating for a while, everyone slowed down and started chatting while eating.

He Dongliang picked up a piece of chicken and said to Yang Guangming, "Guangming, how's your hunting team's harvest lately? You guys are the hot commodity in the factory now; the canteen's meat supply depends on you."

Yang Guangming said, "It's alright. The recent trips into the mountains have yielded good results, and Section Chief Tian is very pleased."

Lin Guodong laughed and said, "That's right. With Guangming, this sharpshooter, around, how could the hunting team's harvest be bad? I heard that everyone in your factory is saying that the security department has a sharpshooter deputy captain who can kill with every shot."

"Brother Lin, you flatter me," Yang Guangming said modestly. "It was mainly good luck, plus the cooperation of the brothers."

Director Fan said to Yang Ximing, "Ximing, your second brother is so capable, you, as the eldest brother, can't fall behind. Work hard and strive to become a full-fledged employee as soon as possible."

Yang Ximing solemnly said, "Director Fan, don't worry, I will definitely do my job well. Although I am not highly educated, I am not afraid of hardship or fatigue, and I will definitely do my job well."

"That's good enough." Director Fan nodded in satisfaction. "Your education level can be improved gradually. Our police station also has cultural classes. If you study more in your spare time, we can send you for training in the future."

"Thank you, Director Fan!" Yang Ximing said excitedly.

Director Ma interjected, "Old Fan, is your police station busy these days? How's the security along the railway line lately?"

Director Fan sighed: "Busy, of course we're busy. Recently, some villages along the line have been unsafe, with frequent thefts of rail parts. We're short-handed; eight police officers are responsible for dozens of kilometers of the line, we can't keep up."

He looked at Yang Ximing: "Ximing is here, which will help with some of the work. After he gets used to the job, I plan to have him take charge of patrolling a section of the line."

Yang Ximing quickly replied, "Director Fan, I'm ready to start work anytime. Just make the arrangements."

"No rush, take your time to familiarize yourself with the route," Director Fan said. "Next week, I'll take you on a walk through the area so you can get used to it."

Everyone ate and chatted, creating a lively atmosphere.

As the host, Yang Ximing frequently poured wine for everyone and urged them to eat more. Although Yang Ximing didn't talk much, he was very good at handling things, offering toasts when appropriate and speaking when necessary, behaving very appropriately.

Director Fan observed this and nodded secretly. Yang Ximing, although from a rural background, was down-to-earth, hardworking, and shrewd; he was a promising talent.

After several rounds of drinks and several dishes, the food on the table was almost gone, and the four bottles of Fenjiu liquor were empty.

Section Chief Huo suggested that we conclude our meeting here today and find another opportunity to get together.

Yang Guangming checked the time; it was already 1:30 PM. The meal had taken almost two hours.

After Yang Guangming paid the bill, everyone sat for a while, drank some tea, and chatted.

At 2 p.m., Director Fan checked the time: "That's about it. I have some things to do this afternoon, so I have to go now."

Director Ma also said, "I have to go back too; I have an appointment this afternoon."

The others also stood up.

Yang Guangming and Yang Ximing escorted everyone to the restaurant entrance.

Lin Guodong patted Yang Guangming on the shoulder: "Guangming, if you need anything in the future, just let me know. We're friends, no need to be polite."

He then said to Yang Ximing, "Ximing, do a good job. With Lao Huo and Lao Fan looking after you in the railway system, you have a bright future ahead of you."

"Thank you, Captain Lin," Yang Ximing said solemnly.

Section Chief Huo said to Yang Ximing, "Ximing, if you encounter any difficulties at work or need anything in your life, feel free to come to me. You know my home address; you're welcome anytime."

"Thank you, Section Chief Huo."

Director Fan stopped and spoke to Ximing: "Ximing, be at work on Monday. I'll show you around for a few days first, and once you're capable of handling things on your own, I'll assign you specific tasks."

"Yes, Director Fan," Yang Ximing replied.

Everyone dispersed.

Lin Guodong and He Dongliang left together, Section Chief Huo and Director Ma went in the same direction, and Director Fan rode his bicycle home by himself.

Only the brothers Yang Guangming and Yang Ximing remained at the restaurant entrance.

The afternoon sun shone warmly on the street. There weren't many pedestrians, and occasionally a bicycle would whiz by with its bell jingling.

Yang Ximing looked at his younger brother, wanting to say something, but unsure where to begin. He knew exactly how much his brother had spent on the meal.

Yang Guangming clearly saw what his older brother was thinking. "Brother, don't overthink it. We're brothers, we're inseparable. Now that you have a stable job, things will only get better from here on out. That's enough."

Yang Ximing nodded emphatically: "Yes. Guangming, don't worry, I will definitely do my best and not let you down."

“My older brother will do well anywhere,” Yang Guangming said with a smile.

He checked the time; it was already past 2 PM. Going back to the village now would be a bit rushed, and his older brother had to go to work tomorrow.

"Brother, are you going back to the village today?" he asked.

Yang Ximing thought for a moment: "I won't go back today, there's not enough time. I have to go to work tomorrow, so I'll stay in the dorm tonight. What about you?"

“I’m not going back either,” Yang Guangming said. “We have to go into the mountains tomorrow, so we have to get up early. I’ll go back to the dormitory tonight. Next week, when we have a break, we’ll go back to the village together to see our parents.”

"Okay." Yang Ximing nodded.

The two brothers walked forward side by side.

After walking a few steps, Yang Guangming suddenly remembered something, took out five jin of grain coupons from his pocket, and handed them to Yang Ximing: "Brother, you take this."

Yang Ximing was taken aback: "Guangming, what's going on?"

“You’ve just arrived in the city, so you probably don’t have enough food coupons.” Yang Guangming guessed that his older brother’s food coupons were almost used up. “I have some left over, you can take them for now. You can pay me back when your food coupons are issued.”

Yang Ximing hesitated for a moment. His grain coupons were indeed running out. He had just started working and hadn't received his grain coupons yet. He only had a few kilograms of grain coupons that Guangming had given him some time ago, so he was really short on supplies.

He took the grain coupons, feeling a warmth in his heart: "Guangming, then... then I'll accept them. I'll return them to you as soon as the grain coupons are issued."

"No rush," Yang Guangming said with a smile. "Use it first, and let me know if you need more." (End of Chapter)