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

Ever since Yang Guangming reunited with Meng Yining at the train station, the vague feelings of affection in his heart, like a seed blown by the spring breeze, quietly broke through the soil and sprouted new buds.

Five years is enough time for a naive girl to transform into a graceful young woman. Even from Yang Guangming's perspective, which has spanned several lifetimes, Meng Yining's appearance and temperament are top-notch. It's not a flamboyant or showy beauty, but a refined elegance like an orchid and a serene beauty like the moon. Standing in a noisy crowd, she possesses a quiet aura.

Today, Meng Yining is a teacher who graduated from a teachers' college and works at a primary school for children of employees. She is educated and has a stable job. In this small county, such conditions would undoubtedly make her the ideal partner for many families.

Yang Guang knew perfectly well that a girl like Meng Yining would inevitably attract attention and suitors at her new workplace. Even if she wasn't there yet, it was only because she was new and everyone was still getting to know her. Once things settled down, those with ulterior motives would definitely start making their moves.

In this respect, Yang Guangming felt that he had the upper hand.

He was Meng Yining's junior high school classmate, and the bond of friendship between them naturally made them closer than strangers.

Meng Yining's elder brother, Meng Zhigang, was his deputy. The two worked together seamlessly and had a good personal relationship. This dual relationship gave him an excellent starting point.

If you're interested, then take action.

Yang Guangming has never been an indecisive person. His experiences in his previous lives have taught him that opportunities are fleeting, and good relationships are even more rare and hard to come by.

He was already twenty-one years old, and in this day and age, it was indeed time to consider settling down. With his discerning eye and expectations for the future, Meng Yining was undoubtedly an extremely suitable candidate.

Having missed her, I don't know when I'll be able to meet someone so compatible again.

Having thought it through, Yang Guangming immediately began planning.

He had originally promised Meng Yining and Huang Yali that he would treat them to a meal once their jobs were stable. They had agreed to go to a restaurant, but he had changed his mind.

Going to a restaurant is convenient, but the atmosphere always feels a bit distant. People come and go, and eating and chatting feel like completing a task—it starts quickly and ends quickly. It's hard to have in-depth conversations, let alone cultivate relationships.

Inviting guests at home is a completely different story.

In their own little world, the atmosphere is relaxed and comfortable, and they can spend a lot of time together.

Everyone works together to prepare the meal, chatting and laughing, which naturally brings people closer. After the meal, you can also have tea and chat, without being restricted by the restaurant's opening hours.

More importantly, he can perform better when cooking at home.

The restaurant's food supply was inconsistent, often consisting only of vegetarian dishes, with meat being a rare treat. He had his own way of obtaining ingredients and could also take out some seasonings from his spatial storage, so the food he cooked was definitely much more appealing than the bland and salty vegetarian dishes served in the restaurant.

A memorable meal can leave a lasting impression.

Yang Guangming was well aware of this.

Saturday afternoon, on the training field.

The hunting team members were conducting their routine shooting training. Yang Guangming and Meng Zhigang stood side by side on the sidelines, supervising the training while talking in hushed tones.

"Brother Zhigang, you're off tomorrow. Are you and Yining going back to the village?" Yang Guangming asked casually.

Meng Zhigang shook his head: "I won't be going back this week. After reporting to Yining, I didn't rush to work. I went home for two days and just got back. I just started working here too, and I want to get familiar with the job more, so I'll be at the factory this week."

Yang Guangming was delighted. "That's perfect. Didn't I say last time that I'd treat everyone to a meal once Yining and the others settled down? How about tomorrow?"

He paused, then looked at Meng Zhigang: "But I'd like to change the location. Let's not go to a restaurant, let's go to my place. What do you think?"

Meng Zhigang was somewhat surprised: "Go to my house? That's too much trouble, you'll have to cook for yourself."

“It’s no trouble at all,” Yang Guangming laughed. “Going to a restaurant is more troublesome. These days, restaurants are having trouble with supplies, and you can’t order many decent dishes. Most of the time it’s just vegetarian food, which isn’t satisfying. It’s better to cook at home and make whatever you want to eat. That’s more practical.”

He continued, "After get off work today, I plan to take a walk at the foot of the mountain. Since I don't have the guns provided by the factory, I still have my homemade bow and arrows. Whether it's a rabbit or a pheasant, if I catch one or two, I can stew a pot of them tomorrow. Wouldn't that be better than eating vegetarian food at a restaurant?"

Meng Zhigang thought about it and agreed. He had experienced hardship and knew how precious meat was. It was indeed difficult to find decent meat dishes in restaurants, so Yang Guangming's suggestion was very practical.

“Okay, let’s eat at home then.” Meng Zhigang readily agreed. “I’ll go back and tell Yining, she’ll definitely be happy. By the way, should we invite Huang Yali too?”

“Of course, we agreed to invite them together.” Yang Guangming nodded. “Then let’s set it for tomorrow noon. You can come around 10 a.m., come early so we can prepare together and make it lively.”

“Okay, I’ll tell them,” Meng Zhigang replied.

The matter was settled.

Yang Guangming felt much more at ease. With this pretext, he could then legitimately invite Meng Yining to his home, creating a relatively private and relaxed environment for them to spend time together.

After get off work, Yang Guangming returned to his dormitory, carried the worn-out bamboo basket on his back, and took out a homemade bow and arrow.

The factory strictly manages the firearms provided to the hunting team; they must register before and after each trip into the mountains, and cannot take them without permission at other times. In order to obtain some wild game to improve his life, Yang Guangming recently figured out how to make a bow and arrow.

The bow was made by bending a single, highly resilient mulberry tree after baking, and the bowstring was made of sturdy cow tendon. The arrow shafts were straight bamboo branches, and the arrowheads were made from scrap iron. Although rudimentary, it was quite powerful and perfectly capable of shooting small game.

Of course, this bow and arrow is mostly just a facade. Occasionally, when needed, it can be taken out to show off and put on a show.

But he definitely won't need them today; he's already stored a few pheasants and rabbits in the refrigerator, which is enough.

But we still have to go through the motions, so as not to arouse suspicion.

As the sun set, Yang Guangming walked out of the factory area and headed towards the foot of the western mountains.

At this time of day, there weren't many people on the road. Occasionally, workers from the factory would ride by on their bicycles after work, and they wouldn't find it strange to see him carrying a bamboo basket and a bow and arrows. It was perfectly normal for the leader of a hunting team to go up the mountain to get some game.

Yang Guangming didn't go too far; he just wandered around in the woods near the foot of the mountain.

He found a secluded spot and took out three male pheasants from his spatial storage.

These were the three largest pheasants he specifically picked during his last trip into the mountains. Each weighed about three pounds, with vibrant feathers and a robust build. The male pheasant's meat is firm and chewier than the female's, making it suitable for stewing or braising.

Putting the three pheasants into the bamboo basket made it instantly heavy.

Yang Guangming carried his bamboo basket back home. The sky gradually darkened, and there were hardly any people left on the road. By the time he reached the vicinity of the family compound, it was completely dark.

Dim light shone from the windows of the tenement building, and occasionally the sounds of cooking, talking, and children's laughter and crying could be heard. The atmosphere of life was particularly strong in the twilight.

Yang Guangming walked into Building No. 3. The corridor was dimly lit, with only a few low-wattage light bulbs emitting a faint glow. He walked quietly, trying not to attract attention.

It was past lunchtime, and he hadn't encountered anyone from the first floor to the second. He quickly walked to his room, took out his key, opened the door, slipped inside, and quietly closed the door.

He put the bamboo basket on the ground and took out the three pheasants. Yang Guangming nodded in satisfaction; tomorrow's main dish was ready.

Then, he began preparing for tomorrow's dinner party.

I took out a packet of dried mushrooms from my storage space; these are hazel mushrooms from Northeast China, perfect for stewing chicken. I also took out a packet of dried kelp, soaked it, and then made a refreshing and appetizing salad. Spinach is a seasonal vegetable right now; I had some stored at home, and it was vibrant green and tender. I also prepared six salted duck eggs, cut in half; they were golden and oozing with oil, perfect for eating with rice.

For the staple food, just make white rice; it's easier than steaming buns.

After categorizing and putting away the ingredients, Yang Guangming checked the seasonings again. There was oil, salt, soy sauce, and vinegar all present, along with spices he had secretly taken from his spatial storage, such as Sichuan peppercorns, star anise, cinnamon, and bay leaves, as well as a small bottle of white sugar.

With these, the taste of tomorrow's meals is guaranteed.

He even prepared several boxes of premium Biluochun tea, packaged in ordinary boxes. Such fine tea is a rare commodity these days, and it would certainly impress his guests.

Everything was ready, and Yang Guangming washed up and rested.

He slept soundly that night.

On Sunday morning, Yang Ming woke up earlier than usual.

The sky outside the window was just beginning to lighten, the distant sky a pale bluish-gray. He lay in bed, listening to the faint sounds coming from the hallway, thinking about his plans for the day.

I got out of bed, washed up, and cleaned the room.

Although it's usually kept clean, I made a special effort to tidy it up again today because we had guests.

The bed was made neatly, the blankets folded into perfect squares. The furniture was spotless, and the floor was swept clean. The windows were also wiped inside and out, sparkling brightly.

The dining table was placed against the wall, with four chairs in their places. The white porcelain tea set given to us by Zhang, the clerk from across the hall, had been washed and dried and placed on the corner of the table, ready for brewing tea.

Yang Guangming checked the time; it wasn't even eight o'clock yet.

He lit the stove and boiled a kettle of water. While the water was boiling, he soaked the dried mushrooms and dried kelp in warm water.

Mushrooms need time to soak and fully expand to release their aroma. Kelp also needs to be thoroughly washed after soaking to remove the surface slime.

The water boiled, he filled the thermos, and then refilled it with another pot.

Next, prepare the spinach by removing yellow leaves and old roots, washing it with clean water, and draining it. Wash the salted duck eggs clean and place them in a small bowl for later use.

The three pheasants will remain untouched until the guests arrive. Freshly killed and prepared will ensure freshness and allow Meng Yining and the others to participate, increasing interaction.

After finishing all that, it was only a little past nine o'clock.

Yang Guangming sat in a chair, picked up a book called "Principles of Shooting" and started flipping through it, but he couldn't calm his mind. He glanced at the wall clock from time to time, and for the first time, he felt that time was passing so slowly.

Finally, around ten o'clock, footsteps and voices came from outside the door.

"Is this the place? The far east end of the second floor?"

"Yes, this is the one."

It was the voices of Meng Yining and Meng Zhigang, clear and melodious.

Yang Guangming immediately stood up, straightened his clothes, and walked to the door.

There was a knock on the door.

A natural smile appeared on his face as he opened the door.

Three people were standing outside the door. Meng Yining and Huang Yali stood in front, and Meng Zhigang followed behind.

Meng Yining changed her clothes today: a light blue short-sleeved shirt with ruffles and dark blue pants. She still wore her hair in two jet-black braids, looking neat and tidy. She had a faint smile on her face and bright eyes.

Huang Yali was wearing a white short-sleeved shirt and gray pants, her short hair neat and tidy. She was carrying a net bag containing a few peaches.

"Guangming, we're not late, are we?" Meng Zhigang said with a smile.

"No, no, this is perfect." Yang Guangming quickly ushered the three of them into the house. "Please come in."

Meng Yining and Huang Yali entered the room, curiously looking around at this little world that belonged to Yang Guangming.

The room wasn't large, but it was clean and bright. The south-facing window was open, letting in unobstructed, warm sunlight. The furniture, though simple, was solidly made, with a glossy finish, and arranged neatly. The blankets on the bed were folded squarely, and the tea set on the table was white and elegant. Everything had a sense of orderly comfort.

"Guangming, your room is so clean, much better than Yining's and my dorm room," Huang Yali exclaimed.

Meng Yining nodded: "It is indeed very neat and tidy, and it looks comfortable."

Yang Guangming smiled and said, "I live alone, so I can just tidy it up a bit. Please sit down, I'll make some tea."

The three of them placed their belongings on the table. Meng Zhigang brought a bottle of baijiu (Chinese liquor), Meng Yining brought a bag of pastries, and Huang Yali brought peaches, which, although not many, were still a rare treat at the time.

"You're here, why bring anything?" Yang Guangming said politely.

"It's my first time visiting your home, so I can't come empty-handed," Meng Zhigang said. "It's just a small token of my appreciation, please don't mind."

Yang Guangming stopped refusing, took the things, put them away, and then started making tea.

He took out the white porcelain tea set, carefully scalded it, and then added the tea leaves. The Biluochun tea leaves were curled like snails, silvery-green with a hint of emerald. As the hot water was poured in, the tea leaves unfurled, and their delicate fragrance immediately wafted out.

"What fragrant tea!" Meng Zhigang took a deep breath. "This tea is extraordinary."

As Yang Guangming poured tea, he said, "A friend from out of town sent this; he said it's a very good Biluochun tea. I've tasted it and think it's alright. You should try it."

He served the teacups to the three people in turn.

Meng Yining took the teacup and lowered her head to sniff it. The tea had a delicate fragrance, with a hint of fruitiness. After a moment, she took a small sip; the tea was mellow and had a noticeable sweet aftertaste.

"It's truly excellent tea." She looked up at Yang Guangming, her eyes filled with appreciation. "I didn't expect you to know so much about tea."

"I wouldn't say I understand it, it just tastes good," Yang Guangming said modestly. "If you like it, take some back with you later. My friends sent a lot, I can't finish it all by myself."

Huang Yali smiled and said, "Then we won't stand on ceremony. We can't usually drink such good tea."

The group drank tea and chatted idly.

Yang Guangming inquired about Meng Yining and Huang Yali's work at the school.

"I just reported for duty and am still getting to know the place," Meng Yining said. "I'm teaching first grade. The kids are quite cute, but they can be a bit noisy."

“I teach third grade,” Huang Yali replied. “There are a few naughty kids who need to be disciplined. But overall it’s alright; the children are quite well-behaved.”

Yang Guangming listened attentively, nodding occasionally. He could sense that Meng Yining's eyes shone when she talked about the children; she truly loved her job.

"Being a teacher is good; it's about educating and nurturing people, and it's meaningful," Yang Guangming said. "When I was a child, I admired teachers the most."

Meng Yining smiled a little embarrassedly: "It's nothing, it's just a job."

After drinking tea for a while, Meng Zhigang asked, "Guangming, what are we having for lunch? Do you need any help preparing?"

Yang Guangming put down his teacup: "We really need everyone's help. I caught three pheasants yesterday, and the main dish for lunch is chicken stew with mushrooms. The mushrooms are already soaking, but the pheasants haven't been prepared yet."

He pointed to the bamboo basket in the corner: "The chicken is over there. We've also prepared spinach, kelp, and salted duck eggs. We'll have rice for the main course."

Upon hearing that there were three pheasants, all three showed expressions of surprise and delight.

“Three? That’s quite a lot!” Meng Zhigang stood up, walked to the bamboo basket and looked at them. “They’re not small either. Okay, leave the plucking and chopping to me, I’m good at that.”

Huang Yali rolled up her sleeves and said, "I have no problem picking and washing vegetables."

Meng Yining said softly, "Yali and I are just average cooks, so we'll assist you."

Yang Guangming was very happy; this was exactly the effect he wanted. With everyone working together, the atmosphere naturally became lively.

"Shall we start now?" Yang Guangming suggested. "Stewed chicken takes time, so if we start early, it'll be ready for lunch."

"Okay, let's begin." Meng Zhigang said, picking up the bamboo basket and going to the corridor to tidy up.

Huang Yali and Meng Yining stayed inside and began processing the spinach and seaweed.

Both girls are hardworking and efficient.

Meng Yining took the soaked kelp out, put it in another basin, and repeatedly rubbed it with clean water to remove the surface slime.

Huang Yali looked at the spinach in the bowl and asked, "Guangming, your spinach is really fresh. Where did you buy it?"

“We grew them ourselves. My older brother and I often go home, and we always bring some vegetables back with us,” Yang Guangming said casually, taking out a cleaver and cutting board from the cabinet. “Let me chop the vegetables.”

Meng Yining handed over the washed kelp: "The kelp is washed, how do you think I should cut it?"

"Slice it into strips, it'll taste good in a cold salad." Yang Guangming took the kelp, skillfully laid it on the cutting board, and with fluid knife work, quickly cut a pile of even kelp strips.

Meng Yining watched from the side, a hint of admiration flashing in her eyes: "Your knife skills are really good."

"It's something you learn through practice." Yang Guangming continued working. "Living alone, you have to do everything yourself."

The three chatted and laughed, and before long, Meng Zhigang returned with the prepared chicken.

The three pheasants had been plucked, gutted, and thoroughly cleaned, then chopped into evenly sized pieces.

"It's done. Take a look and see if it's okay?" Meng Zhigang placed the basin on the cutting board.

Yang Guangming looked at the chicken pieces and praised them, saying, "Brother Zhigang's skills are good. The pieces are all the same size, better than mine."

"In the army, I occasionally helped out in the mess hall; I know how to do these kinds of tasks." Meng Zhigang wiped his hands. "What's next?"

"I'll blanch them first, then stir-fry them until fragrant and stew them," Yang Guangming said, and started getting busy.

He only has one honeycomb briquette stove at home, which is barely enough for stewing chicken, but too slow to cook four dishes.

Yang Guangming thought for a moment and said to Meng Zhigang, "Brother Zhigang, I need to borrow two stoves. The clerk Zhang across the street and the technician Li next door should both be home. I'll go ask them."

“Okay, go ahead.” Meng Zhigang nodded.

Yang Guangming walked out of the room and first knocked on the door of Zhang, the cadre across the hall.

The door opened, and Officer Zhang saw Yang Guangming and smiled, "Guangming, what's up?"

"Officer Zhang, we have guests coming over for lunch and we need to cook, but one stove isn't enough. Would you mind if we borrowed your coal stove?" Yang Guangming asked politely.

"Borrow a stove? No problem," Officer Zhang readily agreed. "Go ahead and use it. Do you need a pot? I have a spare one."

"I have a pot, but I'll borrow the stove. Thank you, Officer Zhang. I'll return the two honeycomb briquettes to you later."

"Don't mention it, we're neighbors." Officer Zhang waved his hand, then lowered his voice, "I heard a woman talking in your room? Have you had guests?"

"Yes, it's my deputy captain's sister and her classmate. I'm treating them to a meal today," Yang Guangming said truthfully.

Officer Zhang smiled understandingly: "Then we must treat you well. Okay, feel free to use the stove. Just let me know if you need any help."

"Thank you, Officer Zhang."

Yang Guangming went to knock on the door of technician Li next door again.

Technician Li was reading a book when he opened the door and heard Yang Guangming explain his purpose. Without hesitation, he agreed.

"The furnace is in the hallway; you can move it yourself," Technician Li said, adjusting his glasses. "Need any help?"

"No need, no need, you've already gone to so much trouble. I'll pay you back with a few more pieces of coal later."

"No need to return it, it's nothing." Technician Li paused, "Judging from the voice... a woman came into your room?"

The news spread really fast. Yang Guangming chuckled inwardly, but nodded outwardly: "Yes, I'm treating my friends to dinner."

Technician Li nodded, asked no further questions, and went back to his room to continue reading.

Yang Guangming moved both stoves to the corridor outside his own door, lining them up with his own stove. All three stoves were lit, the glowing red coals radiating heat, instantly warming the corridor.

Meng Zhigang had already brought over his own iron pot, and Yang Guangming took out two more pots, one for blanching chicken pieces and the other for stir-frying vegetables.

Blanch the chicken to remove any fishy smell, stir-fry until fragrant and colored, then add water and simmer. Yang Guangming worked quickly, and soon the chicken pieces were simmering in the pot. He added the soaked hazel mushrooms, sprinkled with spices such as Sichuan peppercorns, star anise, and cinnamon, and a rich aroma began to fill the air.

Meng Zhigang took a deep breath: "It smells so good! Guangming, your cooking skills are impressive."

"I learned all of this on my own, it can't compare to the skills of a restaurant chef," Yang Guangming said modestly, his hands still busy preparing other dishes.

Blanch the kelp strips in boiling water, then rinse them in cold water. Add minced garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, a pinch of sugar, and sesame oil, and mix well. The cold kelp salad is now ready—refreshing and appetizing.

Blanch the spinach in boiling water, drain and squeeze out excess water, then arrange on a plate. In a separate small pot, heat a little oil, sauté minced garlic until fragrant, add a little soy sauce and salt, and simmer to make a simple garlic sauce. Pour this sauce over the spinach. Blanched spinach may seem simple, but it requires precise control of heat and seasoning.

The salted duck eggs were cut in half, revealing glossy yolk oil and delicate egg white, and were neatly arranged on a plate.

With three stoves burning simultaneously, the efficiency was very high. By 11 o'clock, all four dishes were almost ready.

While the chicken was stewing, Yang Ming also started cooking rice. The rice slowly absorbed water in the pot, releasing its unique aroma. The fragrance filled the corridor, and the doors of the neighboring houses opened one after the other.

Officer Zhang came out, sniffed the air, and said, "Guangming, what are you stewing? It smells so good!"

"Pheasant stew with mushrooms," Yang Guangming said with a smile. "Officer Zhang, don't cook lunch, come to my house and eat with me. You can try my cooking."

Officer Zhang waved his hand: "No, no, I won't join your friends' gathering. But..." He glanced at the room, "This smells so tempting, is there too much soup? If so... just leave me a bowl of chicken soup."

Recently, Yang Guangming has been getting along very well with his two neighbors, and Zhang, the cadre, doesn't stand on ceremony with Yang Guangming either.

Yang Guangming smiled and said, "Of course."

He took out a large bowl and ladled it full from the stewing pot, half chicken and half mushrooms, with a rich broth.

"Officer Zhang, take this back and try it. Don't rush to return the bowl."

Officer Zhang took the bowl and thanked him repeatedly: "This is such a big pot of meat, it should be enough for you, so I won't stand on ceremony. Guangming, thank you!"

He carried a bowl of fragrant chicken back into the house.

Technician Li from next door also came out after smelling the aroma, and stood at the door somewhat embarrassed.

Yang Guangming offered, "Technician Li, let me serve you a bowl too."

"Well... thank you." Technician Li pushed up his glasses and smiled.

Yang Guangming served him another bowl.

"This is too much, too much." Technician Li looked at the bowl full of meat and felt a little guilty.

"It's not much, I still have a big pot here, don't be shy," Yang Guangming said. "You can return the bowl to me when you have time."

Technician Li thanked him and took the bowl back to his room.

When Yang Guangming returned to the house, Meng Zhigang smiled and said, "Guangming, it seems you get along very well with your two neighbors. You just gave them two big bowls of meat without hesitation, and they didn't stand on ceremony with you. You must have a good relationship to do that."

“We’re neighbors, and we’re all young people, so we get along really well,” Yang Guangming explained casually. “Besides, three chickens are enough for us.”

Meng Yining said softly, "You get along so well with your neighbors, it's truly enviable."

"A close neighbor is worse than a distant relative." Yang Guangming glanced at her, and their eyes met.

The two looked at each other for a moment, then Meng Yining blushed slightly and looked away first.

Yang Guangming's heart stirred.

A fleeting blush spoke volumes; she seemed not to dislike herself at all.

The food is basically ready; we just need to wait for the rice to cook before we can eat.

Yang Guangming checked the time; it was not yet 11:30.

"Let's sit a while longer, have some tea, and eat when the meal is ready," he said, gesturing for everyone to sit down again and serving more hot tea.

The four sat around the table, the aroma of tea wafting through the air.

Yang Guangming intentionally steered the conversation back to their junior high school days. He looked at Meng Yining and smiled, "Yining, do you remember our homeroom teacher, Mr. Wang, from our third year of junior high?"

Meng Yining's eyes lit up: "I remember, Teacher Wang was very strict, but he was very kind to us. Once when I was sick and had to take leave, he even took the time to tutor me."

“Yes, Teacher Wang is very dedicated.” Yang Guangming nodded. “I remember once, you got a perfect score on your math test, and Teacher Wang praised you for a long time in class.”

Meng Yining was a little embarrassed: "That was a long time ago."

"But I have a deep impression of you." Yang Guangming looked at her gently. "Back then, you studied very hard and your notes were the neatest. Several teachers praised you for that."

Meng Yining blushed again: "Your grades are also very good, especially in physics, where you're always number one."

Huang Yali, who was listening nearby, asked curiously, "Have you been in the same class since the first year of junior high?"

“Yes, we were in the same class from the first year of junior high to the third year,” Yang Guangming said. “Yining was the best student in our class.”

Meng Zhigang interjected: "Yining has loved learning since she was a child. If it weren't for the family's limited resources, I would actually suggest that she go to high school and then university in the future."

“Being a teacher is great now,” Yang Guangming said earnestly. “Nurturing the next generation is a very meaningful thing.”

He paused, then started talking about funny things from junior high: "Yining, do you remember Liu Ergou, that troublemaker in our class? Once he put a burr on your chair, and when you sat down, it pricked you so much you jumped up and almost fell."

Meng Yining couldn't help but laugh: "I remember. Later, when Teacher Wang found out, he punished him by making him sweep the classroom for a week."

“Yes, that kid became much more well-behaved after that.” Yang Guangming laughed, then remembered something else, “There was another sports meet, you ran the 800 meters, and you were pale as a ghost by the end, but you still managed to cross the finish line, and the whole class applauded you.”

A glint of memory flashed in Meng Yining's eyes: "After that run, I threw up. I was still too weak, I pushed myself too hard. If you hadn't given me a piece of candy, I might have fainted."

When she said "you," her voice softened, her gaze drifted toward Yang Guangming, then quickly looked away.

Yang Guangming noticed this detail, and a ripple of emotion stirred within her. She remembered, she still remembered, these small moments from the past.

"Back then, everyone was so innocent," Yang Guangming remarked. "Every day was just about going to class, doing exercises, playing, and thinking about how to get good grades. Unlike now, when we have to think about work, life, and... the future."

He spoke the last two words very softly, but they were full of meaning.

Meng Yining lowered her head, her fingers unconsciously stroking the teacup.

Huang Yali glanced at Yang Guangming, then at Meng Yining, a knowing look flashing in her eyes. She picked up her teacup, took a sip, and said nothing.

Meng Zhigang seemed to have sensed something, but he just smiled and changed the subject: "Guangming, I've been working here for a while now and I think it's really great. Going hunting in the mountains is simply a pleasure, so exhilarating!"

The conversation shifted to work, and the atmosphere became more relaxed.

Yang Guangming described the hunting team's past, and Meng Zhigang shared his feelings about his transition to civilian life. The two men started talking more about their work.

Meng Yining and Huang Yali listened quietly, occasionally interjecting a word or two.

Time passed slowly as they chatted, and the aroma of rice wafted out.

Yang Guangming glanced at the pot on the stove, got up and said, "It should be almost done, I'll go check."

He walked into the corridor and first lifted the lid of the stewing chicken pot. After stewing for a while longer, the broth had thickened, the chicken was tender, and the mushrooms, soaked in the broth, were glistening with oil. He poked the chicken with chopsticks, and the meat easily separated from the meat.

The rice is cooked perfectly, each grain separate and steaming hot.

"Dinner is ready," Yang Guangming said, turning back into the house.

Meng Zhigang came out to help. The two carried the large pot of stewed chicken into the house and placed it in the center of the table. They then arranged the other three dishes and served rice into bowls.

Four dishes, plus white rice, would have been a truly sumptuous meal in those days.

Yang Guangming also brought out four bottles of beer. The beer was in glass bottles, and the caps needed to be opened with a bottle opener.

"What would you two like to drink?" Yang Guangming asked. "Beer or tea?"

Meng Yining quickly waved her hand: "I don't drink alcohol, tea is fine with me."

Huang Yali also said, "I don't drink alcohol, I'll have tea instead."

Yang Guangming didn't insist: "Okay, Zhigang and I will have some beer, and you guys can have tea."

He poured a glass of beer for Meng Zhigang and himself; the golden liquid bubbled gently in the glass.

Yang Guangming raised his glass: "I'm very happy to have Comrades Yining and Yali here today. This first glass is to welcome you to work at the pharmaceutical factory, and also to congratulate you on officially becoming teachers."

Meng Zhigang also raised his glass: "Yes, welcome! And thank you for the hospitality."

Meng Yining and Huang Yali picked up their teacups.

The four clinked glasses, Yang Guangming and Meng Zhigang took a big gulp of beer, and the two girls sipped their tea.

"Come on, pick up your chopsticks and try my cooking," Yang Guangming invited.

Meng Zhigang picked up a piece of chicken, blew on it, and put it in his mouth. After chewing a few times, his eyes lit up: "Mmm! Delicious! The meat is tender, flavorful, and fragrant!"

Huang Yali picked up a piece of cold seaweed salad with her chopsticks. It was crisp and refreshing, and the seasoning was just right. "This is also delicious, very appetizing."

Meng Yining picked up a piece of mushroom and carefully tasted it. The mushroom had absorbed the deliciousness of the chicken soup and also had its own unique aroma. It had a tender texture and a rich flavor.

"It's really delicious," she said softly, her eyes showing genuine appreciation.

Yang Guangming was satisfied and said with a smile, "Eat more if you like. Three chickens are enough for us."

He then placed a piece of chicken leg meat on Meng Yining's plate: "This piece of meat is tender, you should try it."

This gesture was somewhat intimate, and Meng Yining blushed slightly. She thanked him softly but did not refuse.

Huang Yali saw this and a smile appeared on her lips. Meng Zhigang also saw it, but he didn't say anything, just lowered his head and ate his food.

The atmosphere gradually warmed up. With delicious food in front of them, everyone relaxed considerably.

Yang Guangming took care of Meng Yining intentionally or unintentionally, refilling her teacup when it was empty and moving the dishes she liked closer to her when he saw them. His actions were natural and unforced, yet they revealed his concern.

Meng Yining was a little reserved at first, but she gradually opened up. She would respond to Yang Guangming's words and also take the initiative to ask some questions.

"Guangming, besides hunting, what else do you like to do?" Meng Yining asked.

Yang Guangming thought for a moment: "Read books, practice shooting, do things I like, and sometimes go for a walk in the mountains. Living alone, I have more time, so I need to have some hobbies."

What are your hobbies?

"My hobbies are quite diverse. Besides reading, I also enjoy calligraphy, chess, painting, and music."

Meng Zhigang praised, "You really are very talented."

Huang Yali asked, "Comrade Yang, you graduated from high school. Even if you didn't get into university the first year, why didn't you continue studying?"

Yang Guangming shook his head: "Back then, my family wasn't well-off. It was already a great achievement to finish high school. If I had continued studying, it would have been too much of a burden on my family. It's good now. I have a stable job and can still contribute to the factory."

He looked at Meng Yining and said, "Actually, I admire you guys. Being able to go to a teachers' college is really a respected profession."

Meng Yining felt a little embarrassed by his gaze and lowered her head to eat a mouthful of rice.

Speaking of the teaching profession, Yang Guangming went on to talk about his school days when he was a child: "I remember when I was in elementary school, the school conditions were very poor. In winter, the classrooms were drafty, and my hands were so cold that I couldn't even hold a pen."

But the teachers were very responsible, teaching us to recognize characters and do arithmetic again and again with great patience. Without those teachers, I probably wouldn't have even been able to go to junior high school.

He said sincerely, "That's why I think the teaching profession is particularly noble. You are in a primary school for children of employees now, and the conditions are much better than when we were there, but the responsibility is just as heavy. Teaching children well is a test of patience."

These words struck a chord with Meng Yining.

She looked up and said earnestly, "I will do my best. Although I am a new teacher and there is still much to learn, I will treat every child with care."

"I believe in you." Yang Guangming looked at her with gentle eyes. "You've always been conscientious and responsible since you were little, giving your all to everything you do. You'll definitely do well as a teacher."

Meng Yining felt a warmth in her heart. It felt wonderful to be understood and affirmed by someone she cared about.

Huang Yali, who was listening nearby, suddenly smiled and said, "Yining, I think Comrade Yang understands you very well. After all, you were junior high school classmates. You have shared a common past and experiences, which is why you have so many common topics."

Meng Yining's face flushed again: "That happened so many years ago..."

“Some things, no matter how much time passes, you can never forget them,” Yang Guangming said calmly, but it made Meng Yining’s heart skip a beat.

She dared not look at the bright sunlight and could only lower her head to eat her vegetables.

Yang Guang knew he couldn't rush things and needed to know when to stop. He then turned to ask about Huang Yali's situation.

Huang Yali spoke with poise and confidence, recounting her parents' jobs and her experiences at the teachers' college. She was articulate and well-mannered, befitting a child from a cadre family.

But Yang Guangming could sense that Huang Yali didn't have the arrogance typical of children of cadres; on the contrary, she was very easygoing and knew how to be considerate of others' feelings. This was quite rare.

"Comrade Yali, thank you for helping Yining." Meng Zhigang said solemnly, "Without you, Yining would definitely not have been assigned to such a good unit. We will remember this favor."

Huang Yali waved her hand: "I already said there's no need to thank me. Yining and I are good friends, it's only right that we help each other out."

Meng Zhigang raised his glass: "Come on, Yali, let me toast you. Thank you for taking care of my sister."

Huang Yali picked up her teacup: "Brother Meng, you're too kind. Yining and I are best friends. We'll be working in the same factory from now on, so please don't stand on ceremony."

The four of them ate and chatted for almost two hours.

The three chickens were quite plentiful, and with the mushrooms and other vegetables, everyone was very full. A pot of rice was almost empty, four bottles of beer were finished, and the tea was refilled several times.

Yang Guangming noticed that although Meng Yining didn't talk much, she ate quite a lot, as did Huang Yali. It seemed they really enjoyed the food; today's preparations hadn't been in vain.

After the meal, the two girls took the initiative to clear the dishes.

"You sit down, we'll do it." Huang Yali stopped Yang Guangming, who was about to get up. "You've cooked, it's our turn to clean up."

Meng Yining nodded, "Yes, you should rest."

Yang Guangming didn't insist; he sat down with Meng Zhigang to drink tea and watch the two girls busy themselves.

Washing dishes, wiping tables, and tidying the stove. The two girls worked together seamlessly and quickly cleaned the kitchen and dining table spotless.

Yang Guangming sighed inwardly. Meng Yining was indeed a hardworking and capable girl, and not at all spoiled. Such a partner was someone he could settle down with and build a stable life with.

After tidying up, the four of them sat down again to drink tea.

Yang Guangming took out the prepared tea boxes and handed one box to each of the three people.

"As agreed, you can take the tea back and drink it."

The two girls declined at first, but eventually accepted it after Yang Guangming insisted.

"This tea is really good, thank you," Meng Yining said softly, touching the tin box.

"No need to thank me. My friend sent a lot, and I can't finish it all by myself. Come and get some whenever you want."

Yang Guangming said this naturally, but it implied an invitation to "come often in the future".

Meng Yining understood, her face flushed slightly, and she nodded.

After sitting for a while, Meng Zhigang checked the time and it was already past 2 p.m.

"Guangming, it's getting late, we should head back." Meng Zhigang stood up.

Although Yang Ming was reluctant to leave, he knew he couldn't force him to stay.

"Okay, then I'll see you off."

The four of them left the room. Yang Guangming escorted them all the way downstairs.

"Guangming, thank you for your hospitality today." Meng Yining stood at the building entrance and turned around to say, "The food was delicious."

"I'm glad you like it." Yang Guangming looked at her. "You're welcome to come over and visit sometime."

Meng Yining nodded: "Mm."

Huang Yali laughed and said, "Comrade Yang, I'll treat you next time. But I don't have your cooking skills, so we'll have to go to a restaurant."

"A restaurant is fine too, it's all the same."

Meng Zhigang patted Yang Guangming on the shoulder: "Guangming, go back. I'll take them both back to their dorms and pick up some things. See you Monday."

See you Monday.

Yang Guangming stood at the building entrance, watching the three walk away. Meng Yining took a few steps, glanced back, and seeing Yang Guangming still there, quickly turned back and quickened her pace.

This small gesture warmed Yang Guangming's heart.

He only turned and went upstairs after the three figures disappeared around the corner.

Back inside, the air still seemed to hold the aroma of food and the faint scent of soapberry emanating from Meng Yining.

Yang Guangming sat in his chair, reflecting on the day's events.

He observed Meng Yining's reactions. She was shy, but not averse; reserved, but gradually relaxed. She remembered details from junior high school, responded to his topics, and accepted his care.

All of this indicates that she has feelings for him. At least, she doesn't reject him.

Yang Guangming felt more confident. The next step was to continue contacting them, deepening their understanding, and gradually advancing the relationship.

He has confidence.

With his qualifications, he wasn't bad off in this small county. He had a stable job, a house, was reliable, capable, and had a promising future. More importantly, he and Meng Yining shared a common past and had a natural emotional foundation.

Meng Yining, having just started her new job, probably doesn't have any other suitors yet. He needs to seize this window of opportunity.

Just then, there was a knock on the door.

When Yang Guangming opened the door, it was Zhang, the clerk from across the hall.

"Guangming, here's your bowl back." Officer Zhang handed over the clean bowl with a smile on his face. "The chicken stew today was absolutely delicious! My wife said it was great and asked which restaurant made it."

Yang Guangming took the bowl: "You flatter me. Compared to the chefs in restaurants, my skills are definitely lacking."

Officer Zhang winked and asked, "Guangming, which of those two women in the room is your girlfriend?"

Yang Guangming chuckled: "Officer Zhang is joking. They're all friends. One is my deputy captain's sister, and the other is her classmate."

"Friends?" Officer Zhang looked incredulous. "I noticed you were quite interested in that girl with braids, serving her food and tea. She seemed shy too; I think there's potential."

As expected, there were no secrets across the hall. Yang Guangming hadn't expected Zhang, the clerk, to be so observant, so he could only say, "It really is a classmate. It's been many years."

"Hey classmate, we know each other well." Officer Zhang spoke with the air of someone who'd been there for you. "Guangming, I think that girl is nice, quiet and gentle, a good match for you. Hurry up and make your move."

“Officer Zhang, you…” Yang Guangming was both amused and exasperated.

"Alright, I'm not teasing you anymore." Officer Zhang waved his hand. "But seriously, if you find a good girl, you should settle down with her as soon as possible. With your qualifications, she'll definitely be interested."

After saying that, he smiled and went back into the house.

Yang Guangming closed the door and shook his head. It seemed that everyone with eyes could see through his thoughts.

That's good. If word gets out this way, other interested people will know that Meng Yining already has suitors. (End of Chapter)