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

The hunting team was transferred to a permanent staff, and Yang Guangming was officially promoted to captain and designated as a level seven clerk. After the official document was issued, the news quickly spread among his friends.

Lin Guodong was the first to call.

"Guangming, I heard you got promoted to team leader? And two ranks at that? Well done, kid!" Lin Guodong's voice was full of laughter on the other end of the phone. "Such a big celebration, I have to treat everyone! It wouldn't be right not to!"

Next was Section Chief Huo.

"Guangming, Ximing told me that you're now the official captain of the Public Security Section? A Level 7 clerk? Not bad, not bad at all. Young and promising, with a bright future ahead. You have to treat me to this meal; I need to have a couple of drinks with you."

Even Director Fan, the elder brother's superior, knew about the news.

The day before yesterday, his older brother Yang Ximing called him specifically, and he emphasized Director Fan during the call.

Upon hearing this, Director Fan patted Yang Ximing on the shoulder and said, "Your brother is a capable person. He became a team leader in just a few months. Ximing, you should learn a lot from your brother."

Director Fan was already very satisfied with Yang Ximing's performance, and Yang Ximing, as the younger brother, made his older brother look good.

Yang Guangming, of course, wouldn't hesitate to treat everyone to a meal.

He intends to further develop his relationship with these newly acquainted friends.

In this small county, personal connections are sometimes more important than ability. Lin Guodong works in the public security system, Section Chief Huo works in the railway system, Director Fan is the boss's superior, and He Dongliang is a colleague and friend.

These people deserve to be protected.

June 3rd, Sunday.

The morning sunlight filtered through the sheer curtains, spilling into the 15-square-meter room.

When Yang Guangming woke up, it was already bright outside the window. He didn't get up immediately, but lay in bed listening to the faint chirping of birds in the distance.

Today is his day off; no training, no mountain climbing, and no work. But he has something more important to do—treat everyone.

He sat up and began to wash up.

The cold water splashed on his face, refreshing and invigorating. He shaved in front of the mirror and tidied his hair. The young man in the mirror had a calm gaze, his face was much fuller than when he first came to the city, his skin was a healthy wheat color, and he looked energetic and upright.

I changed into a clean set of casual clothes—a white shirt, blue trousers, and black leather shoes. Although simple, it was clean, tidy, and pleasing to the eye.

After a simple breakfast and reading half a book, it was almost eleven o'clock.

Yang Guangming locked the door and walked down the tenement building.

As I walked out of the pharmaceutical factory, the streets gradually became lively.

Yang Guangming walked slowly along the street toward the Dongfanghong Hotel.

The Dongfanghong Hotel is located in the center of the county town, not too far from the pharmaceutical factory, about a ten-minute walk away.

This is one of the few large restaurants in the county town, a two-story building with an impressive facade. The workers usually can't afford to eat here; they only come for special occasions like holidays or important events.

When Yang Guangming arrived at the restaurant entrance, his elder brother Yang Ximing was already waiting there.

Yang Ximing was still in his police uniform today, looking sharp and capable. A smile appeared on his face when he saw Yang Ximing.

Yang Guangming walked over and said, "Brother, you're here so early. Have you been waiting long?"

"No, I just arrived too," Yang Ximing said. "Come on, let's go in and book a private room."

The two brothers entered the restaurant.

The lobby was spacious, with a dozen or so round tables, all of which were empty at the moment, except for a few waitresses cleaning. A waitress in her thirties, wearing a white uniform, came to greet us.

"Let's book a private room," Yang Guangming said. "We'll have it for lunch, six people."

"The private rooms are on the second floor." The waiter led them up the stairs. "We have three private rooms available today. Please take a look and see which one you'd like."

Yang Guangming looked around and chose the "Sunny Room". This private room faces south, is spacious and bright, and has good lighting.

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 tablecloth. There were several paintings on the wall, depicting workers, peasants, and soldiers. The window was open, and a morning breeze blew in, carrying the freshness of early summer.

"This one will do," Yang Guangming said.

"Okay, comrade. Please have a seat, I'll go get today's menu. You can order anything you'd like to eat today so the kitchen can prepare it in advance."

Yang Guangming and Yang Ximing sat down at the table.

A short while later, the waiter returned with the menu.

The menu was handwritten and changed daily. Yang Guangming took it and examined it carefully.

Today's supply is better than expected.

There are three dishes that are not often served: braised carp with noodles, braised tofu, and scrambled eggs with scallions.

There are five or six vegetarian dishes: braised eggplant, stir-fried greens, cucumber salad, etc.

There are two soups: pickled mustard tuber and egg soup, and tomato and egg soup.

The staple foods are white flour steamed buns and rice.

Braised carp with noodles and braised tofu are local specialties, rarely served on a regular basis. We were lucky to have both today.

Stir-fried eggs with scallions may seem ordinary, but at this time of year, eggs are in short supply, so this dish is also quite rare and not often available. We're lucky to have it today.

"Brother, what would you like to order?" Yang Guangming handed the menu to Yang Ximing.

Yang Ximing looked at them and said, "We definitely have to order braised carp with noodles and braised tofu; they're famous dishes. Let's also have a plate of scrambled eggs with scallions; that's a substantial dish too."

For vegetables, we'll have stir-fried garlic shoots, braised eggplant, and a cucumber salad. For soup, we'll have pickled mustard greens and egg drop soup. For the main course, we'll have steamed buns; two should be enough for each person.

Yang Guangming nodded and said to the waiter, "Order as my older brother suggested. Braised carp with noodles, braised tofu, scrambled eggs with scallions, stir-fried garlic shoots, braised eggplant, cucumber salad, and pickled vegetable and egg soup. Twelve steamed buns, please."

"Okay, comrade." The waiter noted it down.

"That's all for now," Yang Guangming said. "We'll start cooking once everyone's here, and we can add more if needed."

"Okay." The waiter put away the menu. "I'll go to the kitchen to place the order and get everything ready. Once everyone's here, come and let them know so we can start cooking right away."

"Thank you."

After the waiter left, only the two brothers remained in the private room.

Yang Ximing looked around the private room and exclaimed, "Guangming, this place is really nice. It's a big restaurant in our county, quite impressive, and the selection of dishes is plentiful."

When you go to other small restaurants, they mostly serve vegetarian dishes, and it's rare to find meat dishes available.

The price is a bit high, so I wouldn't dare come unless it's for a really big celebration.

“Today is special,” Yang Guangming said. “We have to spend the money we need to spend. Brother, you’re working at the railway police station now, and you’ll be dealing with all sorts of people in the future. You have to be generous when you need to be, so that people don’t look down on you.”

Yang Ximing nodded: "I know. Director Fan also told me that when doing business outside, you should treat people to meals when necessary, and you can't be too stingy. It's just that spending so much money at once still hurts a little."

"You'll get used to it eventually," Yang Guangming said. "By the way, how's your relationship with Director Fan going?"

"That's good." Yang Ximing smiled. "Director Fan is a very honest person and has taken good care of me. The fact that he let me take charge of the patrol route so quickly shows that he really trusts me."

"That's good." Yang Guangming nodded. "Director Fan is your direct superior, so it's important to maintain a good relationship with him. This meal today is also to help you get closer."

“I understand,” Yang Ximing said. “Director Fan was able to come mainly because of Section Chief Huo’s influence. Now that you have quite a bit of influence, I’m just benefiting from it.”

The two brothers chatted about work for a while. Yang Ming asked his older brother about his specific work at the police station, and Yang Ximing answered in detail. Although he had only been working for a little over a month, he had already basically adapted to the work rhythm of a railway police officer. Patrolling the lines and maintaining order every day was hard work, but very fulfilling.

Time passed slowly, and soon it was 11:30.

"Brother, let's wait at the entrance." Yang Guangming stood up. "The guests should be arriving soon."

"Row."

The two walked out of the private room and arrived at the restaurant entrance.

The morning sun was already quite strong, warming me comfortably. There were more pedestrians on the street than in the morning, and bicycle bells rang out incessantly.

Less than ten minutes later, the first customer arrived.

It is Ho Dong-liang.

He was wearing a gray Zhongshan suit today, and his hair was neatly combed. Seeing the Yang brothers, he smiled and walked over.

"Guangming, Ximing, you're here really early," He Dongliang greeted them.

"Captain He, you're here." Yang Guangming greeted him. "We just arrived too. Come on, the private room is on the second floor."

The three chatted and laughed as they went up to the second floor and entered the sunlit hall.

He Dongliang glanced around the private room and nodded: "This private room is nice, sunny and bright. Guangming, you've spent a lot today, the Dongfanghong Hotel isn't cheap."

"Of course," Yang Guangming said. "Brother He, please have a seat. The others should be here soon."

He Dongliang sat down at the table, and Yang Guangming poured him a cup of tea.

"Guangming, to be honest, I'm both happy and envious of your promotion this time." He Dongliang picked up his teacup and said with emotion, "I'm happy because you're from our security department, we're friends, and your success makes me proud. I'm envious because you're young and have a bright future ahead of you."

Yang Guangming said modestly, "Brother He, what are you saying? Your rank is higher than mine, and you have more experience than me. I should be the one envying you."

“His rank is higher than yours, but I’ve already seen the ceiling.” He Dongliang smiled wryly. “The deputy captain of the security team can only reach the level three clerk. I’m already at level four, and it’s difficult to advance further. Captain Zhang is in his prime, and I can’t even dream of getting his position anytime soon.”

He paused, looking at Yang Guangming: "You're different. The hunting team leader's highest rank is a first-level clerk. You're only twenty-one this year. As long as you hold onto this position and work steadily, it's almost a certainty that you'll be promoted to a first or second-level clerk within a few years. In this small county, first or second-level clerks are already top-tier figures."

Yang Guangming could hear the sincerity in He Dongliang's words. He Dongliang was genuinely happy for him and also genuinely envious of his future prospects.

"Brother He, I'll need your guidance in the future," Yang Guangming said sincerely. "I'm new to being the team leader, and there are many things I don't understand yet. There's still a lot I need to learn."

"I wouldn't call it giving pointers, it's more about learning from each other." He Dongliang waved his hand. "But Guangming, there's something I have to remind you of. You're the captain now, and you're still so young, so there will be even more people watching you. You must do your job well and not make any mistakes. For the foreseeable future, the hunting team's performance must be maintained until you've completely established yourself. That's the foundation for your success."

"I've got it, thank you for reminding me, Brother He," Yang Guangming said solemnly.

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

Lin Guodong walked in.

He wasn't wearing his police uniform today, but rather a dark blue civilian outfit, looking quite sharp. Seeing He Dongliang, he smiled and said, "Dongliang, you're even faster than me."

“Cousin.” He Dongliang stood up.

Yang Guangming and Yang Ximing also quickly stood up: "Brother Lin."

"Sit down, sit down, everyone, don't be shy." Lin Guodong waved his hand and sat down next to He Dongliang.

Yang Guangming poured him some tea.

Lin Guodong looked Yang Guangming up and down, his face full of smiles: "Guangming, it's only been a few months since I last saw you, but you seem to have matured a lot. Now that you're the captain, your demeanor is definitely different."

"Brother Lin, you flatter me," Yang Guangming said with a smile. "It's all thanks to the leadership's guidance and the support of my comrades."

"Don't give me that," Lin Guodong laughed. "I know your abilities. The hunting team's results speak for themselves, and no one can say anything against it. This promotion is well-deserved."

He paused, then lowered his voice: "But Guangming, you were promoted from deputy captain to captain so quickly, Section Chief Tian must have faced a lot of pressure, right?"

Yang Guangming nodded: "There were some twists and turns. But Section Chief Tian was very supportive of me, and Director Yu also recognized my achievements, so it was finally settled."

"That's good." Lin Guodong nodded. "I've dealt with Section Chief Tian before; he's quite protective of his own. If you work hard under him, he won't treat you unfairly."

“I know,” Yang Guangming said. “Section Chief Tian has been good to me, and I’ve always been grateful.”

Lin Guodong then looked at Yang Ximing: "Ximing, how have you been lately? Are you settling in well at the police station?"

"I'll get used to it, I'll get used to it," Yang Ximing quickly said. "Captain Lin, I owe this opportunity to you. I haven't had a chance to properly thank you, so I'll definitely toast you a few times today."

"Don't mention it." Lin Guodong waved his hand. "We're all friends, it's only right that we help each other out. Now that you're in the public security system, we'll be colleagues, so let's keep in touch."

"Definitely, definitely," Yang Ximing said solemnly.

As the group was chatting, the door to the private room was pushed open again.

Two people came in this time—Section Chief Huo and Director Fan.

Section Chief Huo was dressed neatly in a Zhongshan suit, his hair combed perfectly, and a smile on his face. Director Fan, on the other hand, was dressed in the summer uniform of a railway police officer and looked very smart.

"Old Huo, Old Fan, you've finally arrived," Lin Guodong said with a smile as he stood up.

Section Chief Huo greeted Lin Guodong and He Dongliang, then looked at Yang Guangming and said, "Guangming, congratulations! You've officially become a team leader, a level seven clerk. You've been promoted two levels in a row, which is rare in our county."

Director Fan also said with a smile, "Guangming, Ximing told me you got promoted, and I couldn't quite believe it. It's only been a few months? Your promotion speed is like riding a rocket."

Yang Guangming quickly invited the two to sit down, pouring tea as he said, "Chief Huo, Director Fan, you were both lucky to have caught the opportunity." "What luck? It's all about ability. The hunting team's achievements are obvious to all, even I've heard about them. You earned this captain position through solid merit, and no one can say anything about it. Otherwise, a young man like you wouldn't have gotten this position."

Director Fan nodded in agreement: "Old Huo is right. Guangming, you have such talent at such a young age, your future is limitless."

Yang Guangming made a few modest remarks, but he was very clear-headed.

He knew that while there was some genuine sincerity in these people's praise, it was mostly a matter of social etiquette. Within the system, mutual flattery was the norm; he'd just listen and move on.

Once everyone was present, Yang Ximing went down to inform the waiter that the dishes could be served.

Soon, cold dishes and simple hot dishes were served first.

Yang Guangming opened a bottle of Fenjiu liquor and poured one for everyone.

He raised his glass and stood up: "I'm treating everyone to dinner today for two main reasons. First, to celebrate the hunting team's transition to a permanent organization, and my good fortune in becoming its captain. Second, to thank everyone for your continued help and support."

He looked at Lin Guodong and said, "Brother Lin, you've been helping me ever since I first came to the city. You've been a go-between, introducing me to friends. I'll remember this kindness."

He then looked at Section Chief Huo and said, "Section Chief Huo, my elder brother was able to get into the railway system entirely thanks to your help. Without you, my elder brother would still be farming in the village. Our whole family will never forget this kindness."

Then, looking at Chief Fan, he said, "Chief Fan, my elder brother is at the police station, and we are very grateful for your care. He is young and inexperienced, so please forgive him and give him some guidance if he does anything wrong."

Finally, he looked at He Dongliang and said, "Brother He, we are colleagues and friends. When I was in the security department, you always took good care of me and thought of me whenever there was good news. I will never forget this brotherhood."

He paused, then raised his voice: "This first drink is for everyone. Thank you all for your help, and thank you all for coming today. I'll drink it all, you can drink as you please."

After saying that, he drank it all in one gulp.

The fiery liquor slid down my throat, and a warm sensation spread from my stomach.

Everyone raised their glasses and drank them down.

Section Chief Huo picked up a piece of cucumber salad with his chopsticks, chewed a few times, nodded and said, "This cucumber salad is quite good, refreshing. Guangming, what did you order today?"

"We ordered braised carp noodles, braised tofu, and scrambled eggs with scallions," Yang Guangming said. "The food is good today, everyone is in for a treat."

"Oh, braised carp with noodles?" Director Fan's eyes lit up. "This dish is not easy to come by. Braised carp with noodles is the signature dish of Dongfanghong Restaurant. The last time I had it was half a year ago."

Just then, another hot dish was served.

This dish is braised carp with noodles.

The waiter brought in a large tray with a whole carp on it, covered in golden noodles and drizzled with a bright red sauce, its aroma irresistible.

"Here it comes, braised carp with noodles!" The waiter placed the dish in the center of the table.

Next, braised tofu was served. The tofu was cut into thick slices, as white as jade, and topped with a milky white broth, garnished with a few goji berries—it looked incredibly tempting.
Then came scrambled eggs with scallions and braised eggplant.

Finally, there was pickled mustard tuber and egg soup, steaming hot and with a wonderful aroma.

The main course was served—a basket of white flour steamed buns.

This meal was considered luxurious in those days. Especially given the current shortage of non-staple foods, having braised carp with noodles was a rare treat.

Looking at the dishes on the table, Director Fan exclaimed, "Guangming, you've really gone to great lengths today."

Yang Guangming smiled and said, "Director Fan, it's worth it to have so many friends here today. If it weren't for everyone's help, I wouldn't be sitting here, and my older brother wouldn't be wearing this police uniform."

Section Chief Huo 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.

Braised carp with noodles is the highlight of the day. Yang Guangming first used serving chopsticks to put a piece on Huo Duanzhang's plate: "Huo Duanzhang, please try this. I heard it's the signature dish of Dongfanghong Restaurant. Do you think it tastes authentic?"

Section Chief Huo picked up the piece of fish, put it in his mouth, and savored it. The fish was tender, the noodles were crispy, and the sauce was perfectly balanced between salty and sweet—it was indeed a delicious dish.

"Excellent, truly excellent." Section Chief Huo nodded repeatedly. "The heat control is excellent; the fish is fried to a crispy exterior and tender interior, and the noodles are also crunchy. The taste is still the same as before; no shortcuts have been taken."

Director Fan picked up a piece of egg and ate it with the steamed bun, finding it increasingly delicious.

Lin Guodong prefers braised tofu, which is tender and smooth with a delicious broth, just the way he likes it.

He Dongliang, on the other hand, was not picky about either meat or vegetables, and tried every dish, enjoying it immensely.

Yang Ximing was not a man of many words, but he was very good at handling things. He would often pour water and wine for Director Fan and Section Chief Huo, behaving very appropriately.

For a moment, only the sounds of chewing and the clinking of bowls and chopsticks filled the private room.

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

Section Chief Huo said, "Guangming, you're now a Level 7 clerk. According to the ranks in your factory, the upper limit for a hunting team leader is Level 1 clerk. You've already paved the way. As long as you don't make any major mistakes and continue working step by step, it shouldn't be a problem for you to be promoted to Level 1 or 2 clerk within a few years."

He paused, then looked at Yang Guangming: "In our small county, what does a first or second-level clerk mean? That's the ultimate goal that most cadres in our county aspire to. Guangming, you're only twenty-one this year; your future is limitless."

Yang Guangming could sense that Section Chief Huo's words were not just flattery, but more of a reminder. A reminder that his current position was different, and the future would be even different; he should cherish it, but also be cautious.

“Section Chief Huo, I understand,” Yang Guangming said solemnly. “I will definitely do my job well and live up to the expectations of the leaders and the help of my friends.”

Director Fan said with a smile, "Old Huo, you have a good eye for people. I didn't completely believe you when you told me that Ximing's brother was a capable person. Now it seems you have a sharp eye."

"That's right." Section Chief Huo said with some pride, "I rarely misjudge people. Guangming is capable, knows how to get things done, and understands human relationships. A person like that can get along well anywhere."

Lin Guodong also said, "Guangming is indeed very good. The first time I met him, I felt that this young man was extraordinary. He has a very special temperament. He is calm and down-to-earth, unlike the reserved nature of most children from rural areas, and unlike the impetuousness of some city people. He is rare."

Yang Guangming quickly replied, "Brothers, you flatter me. I'm just an ordinary country boy who was lucky enough to seize this opportunity. I'll need your guidance and support in the future."

"Let's learn from each other and help each other." Lin Guodong raised his glass. "Come on, let's toast to Guangming's promotion and to our friendship!"

Everyone raised their glasses and drank another cup.

After several rounds of drinks, the atmosphere became increasingly lively.

Section Chief Huo then inquired about Yang Ximing's work situation, and Yang Ximing answered in detail.

"It's hard work, but it's very meaningful," Yang Ximing said. "Every time I see a train pass by safely, I feel at ease."

Director Fan nodded in satisfaction: "It's good that you have this awareness. The job of railway police is to ensure safety and smooth traffic. Ximing, do a good job. If you perform well during your apprenticeship, I'll try to get you promoted early."

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

Section Chief Huo said to Yang Guangming, "Guangming, your older brother is at the police station, and Lao Fan is taking care of him, so you can rest assured. Lao Fan is an honest man; he will definitely keep his promises."

Director Fan laughed and said, "Old Huo, don't flatter me. Ximing is a hard worker and willing to endure hardship. Of course, I will give special attention to cultivating such a comrade."

Yang Guangming raised his glass: "Director Fan, let me toast you. Thank you for taking care of my elder brother."

The two of them clinked their glasses and drank it all in one gulp.

He Dongliang felt a pang of emotion as he watched this scene.

The Yang brothers, Ming and Yang, one a team leader at a pharmaceutical factory and the other a police officer at a railway police station, have both escaped rural life and become city dwellers. This is quite rare in rural families.

"Guangming, Ximing, you two brothers have really made your family proud," He Dongliang said. "Your parents must be very happy, right?"

Yang Guangming nodded: "Yes, my parents are very happy. Last time I went home, my dad said that he never expected that both of his sons would move to the city. This is something he never dared to dream of before."

Lin Guodong asked, "Guangming, I think I heard you mention that you have a younger brother, don't you?"

"Yes, I also have a younger brother named Yuming, who is still farming in the village."

Taking the opportunity, Yang Guangming gave a brief introduction: "He's only nineteen, but he's tall and looks even more robust than my brother. If I have the chance, I'd like to think of a way to help him."

However, with the current strict policies, it's not easy to find work in the city. Brothers, please keep an eye out for me; if anyone wants to transfer their job, I'll consider getting it for my third brother.

Section Chief Huo pondered for a moment and said, "There are no openings in the railway system for the time being. But I can keep an eye out for you, and I'll let you know as soon as I hear any rumors."

"Thank you, Section Chief Huo," Yang Guangming said, expressing his gratitude.

Director Fan also said, "The police station is also full. When I meet with other friends in the future, I will ask around and maybe we will get some news."

"Thank you, Director Fan," Yang Ximing said quickly.

The topic then shifted back to Yang Guangming.

Section Chief Huo put down his chopsticks, looked at Yang Guangming, and said in a serious tone, "Guangming, there's something I need to remind you of."

Yang Guangming sat up straight: "Chief Huo, please speak."

"You're a team leader now, and your administrative rank has gone up," Section Chief Huo said slowly. "But rank alone isn't enough; you also need to strive for ideological progress. You're a member of the Youth League now, right? Have you considered joining the Party?"

Yang Guangming had already thought of this problem.

In his previous lives, he was a member of the organization. Now that he's a cadre, he certainly can't lag behind ideologically. In fact, from his first day at the pharmaceutical factory, he wrote an application to join the Party, actively participated in organizational activities, and is now an activist.

"Section Chief Huo, thank you for reminding me," Yang Guangming said earnestly. "I'm a member of the Youth League, and I wrote my application to join the Party as soon as I joined the company. Now I'm an activist, and I participate in the organization's study activities every month. Becoming a Party member has always been my goal."

Section Chief Huo nodded in satisfaction: "That's good. Within the system, Party membership is very important. Many important positions require Party membership. You're young and capable; it would be even better if you were also a Party member."

Lin Guodong also said, "Old Huo is right. Guangming, you need to hurry up with your Party membership application. You're the team leader now and an activist. As long as you perform well, becoming a Party member shouldn't be difficult. If you need any help, just let me know. I also have some connections with people in your factory's Party committee."

Yang Guangming kept these suggestions in mind: "Thank you all for the reminders, I will take them seriously. I will consult with Section Chief Tian more often and report my thoughts to him more frequently."

Director Fan smiled and said, "Guangming, you've thought things through quite thoroughly. It seems we don't need to worry about you; you already have your own plans."

Yang Guangming humbly said, "It's all thanks to the guidance of the leaders. I'm just a country boy, and there are many things I don't understand. I rely entirely on everyone's help."

Section Chief Huo waved his hand: "Guangming, we can see your abilities. Keep up the good work, there's a long road ahead of you."

Everyone ate and chatted in a harmonious atmosphere.

Yang Guangming noticed the subtle change in everyone's attitude towards him at today's gathering.

In the past, people like Lin Guodong and Section Chief Huo helped him more out of personal favor or appreciation of his abilities. Although they valued him, it was somewhat like the care and concern of an elder for a younger person.

Today is different.

He is now the official captain of the security section, and his relationship with them is now equal. The way they look at him has become less about showing favoritism and more about respect and importance.

It was a very subtle change, but Yang Ming could feel it.

He knew that from this day forward, his status in these people's hearts would be different.

Previously, they were "young people with potential"; now they are "peers and friends with whom one can interact on an equal footing."

This change was what he wanted, and what he worked hard to achieve.

We've almost finished drinking; the three bottles are empty.

Yang Guangming looked at everyone and asked, "Would you like another bottle?"

Lin Guodong waved his hand: "That's enough, three bottles is just right. Any more would be too much, I have things to do this afternoon."

Section Chief Huo also said, "Yes, that's enough. We've had a great time drinking today, let's stop here."

Director Fan and He Dongliang also said that enough was enough.

Yang Guangming stopped insisting and went downstairs to pay the bill.

When he returned, everyone stood up and prepared to leave.

Upon reaching the restaurant entrance, Yang Guangming and Yang Ximing saw everyone off.

Lin Guodong patted Yang Guangming on the shoulder: "Guangming, you enjoyed the meal today. If you need anything in the future, feel free to contact me. We're friends, no need to be shy."

"Thank you, Brother Lin," Yang Guangming said. "I'll definitely need your help in the future."

Section Chief Huo also said to Yang Guangming, "Guangming, do a good job. Don't worry about your older brother, Lao Fan and I will take care of him. You also need to be careful at the factory. You've just been promoted to team leader, so stability is the most important thing."

“I understand, Section Chief Huo,” Yang Guangming said solemnly.

Director Fan said to Yang Guangming, "I've noted down what happened to your third brother. I'll ask around and let your eldest brother know as soon as I have any news."

Director Fan is an honest man, and we should keep in touch more often in the future. Yang Guangming said, "Thank you so much, you've gone to so much trouble."

Ho Tung-leung concluded by saying, "See you Monday, Bright Future."

"Okay, Brother He, see you on Monday."

Everyone dispersed.

Lin Guodong and He Dongliang left together, while Section Chief Huo and Director Fan went in the same direction. Yang Guangming and Yang Ximing stood there, watching their figures disappear around the street corner. (End of Chapter)