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

On Tuesday noon, the cafeteria was bustling with activity.

After quickly finishing his lunch and packing up his lunchbox, Yang Ming picked up his worn-out military green satchel and got up from his seat.

His lunch break was short, so he had to make the most of it.

Stepping out of the factory area, there weren't many pedestrians on the street. In the July afternoon, the sun was a bit scorching, the willows along the roadside drooped their branches, and cicadas chirped tirelessly in the trees.

Pingyang County has only one cinema, located in the center of the county town, not too far from the pharmaceutical factory. Yang Guangming walked briskly, and twenty minutes later, he saw the gray two-story building of the cinema.

The movie theater entrance was deserted; it wasn't showing, and only two children were playing with pebbles on the steps. Several faded posters adorned the wall, the most prominent being a large advertisement for "The Red Detachment of Women." In the poster, the Red Detachment soldiers appeared heroic and spirited, their eyes filled with unwavering determination.

Yang Guangming walked into the ticket office. Inside the small window, the ticket seller, a woman in her fifties, was dozing off.

"Comrade, I need a ticket." Yang Guangming knocked on the window.

The ticket seller opened his eyes and yawned: "What time is the show?"

"The show at 8 p.m.

How many do you want?

Yang Guangming originally wanted to ask for two tickets. Watching a movie with Meng Yining was naturally best done by two people, in a quiet setting, making it easier to talk.

But he changed his mind before he could say it.

He thought of Meng Zhigang.

This brother-in-law is 28 years old this year and is still single.

During this time, the enthusiastic older women in the factory tried to introduce him to potential partners, but whether it was because Meng Zhigang had high standards or it wasn't fate, nothing came of it.

After Meng Zhigang was promoted to officer in the army, his family introduced him to a saleswoman at a county department store. It was a respectable job with a city residency permit, but after meeting the girl once, Meng Zhigang felt that she was plain-looking and that their personalities didn't match, so nothing came of it.

The Meng family was from the countryside, so they had limited opportunities to meet city girls. Meng Zhigang was also stationed in the army most of the time and wouldn't come home for several years at a time, so the marriage was delayed.

Yang Guangming pondered for a moment, his gaze falling on the handbag. Inside were White Rabbit milk candies he had prepared to give to Meng Yining.

He suddenly had a thought: should he try to matchmake Meng Zhigang and Huang Yali?

Once the idea appeared, it sprouted and took root quickly, like bamboo shoots after a spring rain.

Thinking about it carefully, the two are actually quite well-matched.

In terms of age, Meng Zhigang is 28 and Huang Yali is 21, a difference of seven years. In this day and age, that's not a big problem. Many couples have an even larger age gap.

In terms of appearance, Meng Zhigang was tall and robust, with thick eyebrows and large eyes—the kind of handsome that conformed to the aesthetics of the era. He looked even more dashing in his military uniform. Huang Yali was pretty and elegant, with a gentle temperament; she was quite a beautiful girl. The two of them standing together looked very well-matched.

At work, Meng Zhigang is a level four clerk with a monthly salary of fifty-six yuan, which is considered excellent among his peers in the county. Huang Yali is a primary school teacher with a stable and respectable job.

In terms of personality, Meng Zhigang is rough on the outside but refined on the inside, steady and reliable; Huang Yali is cheerful, generous and appropriate in handling matters.

The only obstacle might be social class.

Huang Yali's father was the deputy director of a pharmaceutical factory, a true cadre family. Meng Zhigang was a demobilized rural military officer, and his family had no connections.

This gap certainly exists. But Yang Guangming believes it is not insurmountable.

In a small county town, the pool of potential partners is already limited. Young men from families of similar means to Huang Yali may not possess Meng Zhigang's outstanding looks and abilities. Even if they did, Huang Yali might not be interested in them.

Huang Yali has a good personality and is not spoiled. You can tell from the fact that she is willing to be friends with a rural girl like Meng Yining that she is not the kind of person who cares about social status.

As for her parents' attitude, Yang Guangming doesn't know and can't judge. But if Huang Yali herself is willing, there's always a chance to win over her parents.

Most importantly, Meng Zhigang is indeed a rare find. He is capable, promising, and of good character. If Huang Yali misses out on him, she may not be able to find someone more suitable.

Yang Guangming thought about it more and more and felt that this matter had a chance.

Let's buy four tickets. They'll be in pairs, but with separate seats, giving him and Meng Yining some space to be alone, while also creating opportunities for Meng Zhigang and Huang Yali to interact.

Whether it works out or not depends on their own fate. I'm just acting as a bridge; I won't force anything.

"Comrade, I need four tickets." Yang Guangming made up his mind. "For the 8 PM show."

The ticket seller glanced at him: "Four tickets? Do you want seats together?"

"We need two double seats, but spaced apart," Yang Guangming added. "Ideally, one on the left and one on the right, quite far apart."

The ticket seller looked at him strangely, but didn't ask any questions. She looked down and flipped through the ticket book: "The fifth row on the left has numbers seven and eight, and the fifth row on the right has numbers thirteen and fourteen. Is that okay? The middle is quite far apart, and I can't hear you when you speak."

"Okay, these four will do." Yang Guangming was very satisfied.

He took out his money and counted out the ticket price. The movie tickets weren't expensive, only one cent each, four tickets for only four cents.

The ticket seller tore off the tickets and handed them out through the small window. Four light pink paper tickets, printed with the screening time, showtime, and seat number.

Yang Guangming carefully put the ticket into the inside pocket of his handbag and zipped it up.

As he left the movie theater, Yang Guangming checked his watch; it was just past one o'clock. With plenty of time to spare, he decided to head straight to Meng Yining's dormitory.

Yang Guangming hadn't been to Meng Yining and Huang Yali's dormitory, but Meng Zhigang had mentioned the address. The teachers' dormitory of the affiliated primary school was at the back of the campus, a row of single-story houses.

As Yang Guangming walked to the entrance of the primary school, the campus was quiet. He went around to the back and, sure enough, saw a row of neat bungalows with clothes hanging in front of the doors and potted plants on the windowsills.

Following Meng Zhigang's directions, Yang Guangming quickly found the dormitory.

The door was open, and faint voices could be heard coming from inside.

Yang Guangming stopped at the door and cleared his throat: "Yining, Comrade Yali, are you there?"

The talking inside stopped. Soon, Meng Yining appeared at the door.

She wore a light yellow short-sleeved shirt today, which made her skin look even whiter. Her hair was styled into two braids, hanging down her shoulders, giving her a fresh and beautiful appearance.

"Guangming? What brings you here?" Meng Yining was somewhat surprised, and a faint blush immediately appeared on her face.

"I had nothing to do at noon, so I came to check on you all," Yang Guangming said with a smile. "Did I disturb your rest?"

"No, no, come in quickly." Meng Yining quickly stepped aside.

Sunshine Ming walked into the dormitory.

The room wasn't large, about twelve or thirteen square meters, but it was very tidy. Two single beds were placed against the wall, their blankets neatly folded. In the middle was a desk with several books and lesson preparation notes on it. On the windowsill, a small glass vase held a few fresh wildflowers, pale purple, of unknown species, but very pretty.

Huang Yali was sitting on the edge of the bed reading a book when she saw Yang Guangming come in. She put down her book, stood up, and said with a smile, "Comrade Yang, what a rare guest! Please have a seat."

There were only two chairs in the room, one in front of the desk and one beside the bed. Yang Guangming sat down in the chair in front of the desk.

"Don't you take a lunch break?" Yang Guangming asked.

"I just finished eating, I'm going to read for a bit." Meng Yining sat on the edge of her bed, her fingers unconsciously twisting the hem of her clothes. "Have you eaten?"

"We've already eaten," Yang Guangming said, taking out a bag of White Rabbit milk candy from his bag and placing it on the desk. "It was sent by a friend from out of town. You guys can try it."

It was a bag of milk candy wrapped in oil paper, bulging and weighing about two pounds.

Meng Yining's eyes widened: "White Rabbit milk candy? This...this is too expensive."

In those days, White Rabbit milk candy was a rare commodity. Department stores in county towns were often out of stock, and it was only possible to buy it during holidays or in big cities like provincial capitals or Shanghai.

This two-pound bag of White Rabbit milk candy is not only valuable but also rare.

Huang Yali also came over, looked at the bag of candy, then at Yang Guangming, a knowing look flashing in her eyes.

She smiled and said to Meng Yining, "Yining, Comrade Yang's kindness is appreciated, please accept it. I'll also enjoy this high-class candy from the big city."

"It's just a little sugar, nothing special," Yang Guangming said casually. "A friend sent it from Shanghai. I'm a grown man, and I don't like sweets, so it's just sitting there. It's perfect that you girls like it."

Meng Yining felt a sweet warmth in her heart. Of course, she knew this wasn't "worthless"; Yang Guangming must have gone to great lengths to obtain it and specially brought it to her.

This sentiment is more precious than the candy itself.

"Well... thank you," Meng Yining said softly, her face flushing even deeper.

"Don't mention it." Yang Guangming smiled, his gaze sweeping around the room before landing on Huang Yali. "Comrade Yali, are you settling in well here?"

"It's great, much more spacious than the dorms at our teachers' college," Huang Yali said confidently. "There are just a lot of mosquitoes, so we have to use mosquito nets at night."

“It’s like this in summer.” Yang Guangming said casually, “By the way, there’s something I want to tell you.”

Both girls looked at him.

Yang Guangming took out the four movie tickets from the inside pocket of his bag, but only took out two and placed them on the table.

"I bought a movie ticket for the 8 PM showing of 'The Red Detachment of Women' tonight. I've heard it's a great movie and I've been wanting to see it for a while."

He paused, then looked at Meng Yining: "Yining, do you have time? Would you like to go see it together?"

Meng Yining's heart skipped a beat. She looked at the two pale pink movie tickets, then at Yang Guangming's warm and expectant eyes, and nodded gently.

"Have time."

"That's great." Yang Guangming smiled and then took out two more tickets and placed them aside. "I bought two more for Brother Zhigang and Comrade Yali."

He looked at Huang Yali and said naturally, "Comrade Yali, if you have time, why don't you go together? It'll be more fun with more people. I haven't had a chance to talk to Brother Zhigang yet, I'll go tell him later. If you all have no objections, we can go together tonight."

Huang Yali was stunned.

She glanced at the two tickets, then at Yang Guangming, and finally her gaze settled on Meng Yining. Meng Yining had her head down, the tips of her ears were red, but the corners of her mouth were slightly upturned.

Huang Yali was incredibly clever; she instantly understood Yang Guangming's intention.

This wasn't just a simple invitation to a movie. Yang Guangming was clearly trying to set her up with Meng Zhigang.

Her face flushed slightly, and her heart pounded a little. Watching a movie with Meng Zhigang? The two of them sat together in the darkened movie theater…

This thought made her both nervous and somewhat inexplicably expectant.

She hadn't had much contact with Meng Zhigang, but she had a very good impression of him. He was tall and handsome, calm and reliable, capable at work, and exceptionally caring towards his younger sister. He was a very charming man.

As for the difference in family background, Huang Yali didn't really care. Although her father was the deputy factory director, he also came from a rural background and worked his way up step by step through his own efforts. Her father often taught her that when judging a person, you should look at their character and ability, not just their family background.

Meng Zhigang's character and abilities are clearly outstanding.

But... this all happened so suddenly. She wasn't prepared at all.

Huang Yali hesitated and did not answer immediately.

Seeing this, Yang Guangming quickly added, "Comrade Yali, don't feel pressured. It's just watching a movie together. Zhigang and I are partners, you and Yining are good friends, we're all acquaintances, it's normal for us to get together. If you feel uncomfortable, it's okay, I'll cancel the reservation later."

His tone was sincere, giving Huang Yali ample room to maneuver.

Huang Yali bit her lip, remaining silent.

Meng Yining tried to keep her expression natural and said casually, "Yali, let's all go to the movies together, it'll be more fun. Anyway... Guangming and I are going too, you can keep each other company."

As she spoke, she secretly observed Huang Yali's expression.

A blush flashed across Huang Yali's face, but her eyes did not dodge.

She thought for a moment, then said softly, "Well... okay then. I don't have anything planned for tonight anyway. But Comrade Yang, will this bother you and Yining?"

"No, no," Yang Guangming laughed. "Everyone watches their own movie in the theater, so there's no disturbance. Is that settled then?"

"Mm." Huang Yali nodded.

Yang Guangming felt a sense of relief, knowing that this was the first step. Huang Yali's lack of a firm rejection indicated that she didn't dislike Meng Zhigang, and might even have some affection for him.

"Hey Yining, keep these two tickets." Yang Guangming pushed the tickets meant for Meng Zhigang and Huang Yali to Meng Yining. "Take them to Zhigang later and tell him about going to the movies together tonight. I'll keep our tickets for now. We'll meet at the factory gate tonight."

He arranged it this way to avoid mixing up the seats. Separating the two couples and giving them separate tickets is the safest approach.

He arranged for Meng Yining to deliver the tickets to Meng Zhigang, also to give Meng Yining a chance to explain things to Meng Zhigang. Since they were siblings, it would be most convenient for them to discuss this privately, so he wouldn't get involved.

Meng Yining took the ticket and carefully tucked it into her book: "Okay, I'll take it to my brother after I get off work."

"Okay, it's settled then." Yang Guangming stood up. "I won't bother you any longer. You guys get some rest. See you at the factory gate at 7:30 tonight."

"I'll see you off." Meng Yining also stood up.

The two walked out of the dormitory and onto the path outside.

The afternoon sun filtered through the leaves, casting dappled patterns. It was quiet all around, with only the sound of cicadas chirping.

After walking a distance, Meng Yining asked in a low voice, "Guangming, did you deliberately buy tickets for my brother and Yali?"

Yang Guangming smiled and didn't hide anything: "Yes. I think they're a good match, and I'd like to play matchmaker. What do you think?"

Meng Yining's eyes lit up: "I also think they're a perfect match! Actually... I've thought about this for a long time, but I've never dared to say it. Yali's family is too well-off, and I was afraid that if I brought it up, she would think I..."

"Do you think you're out of your league?" Yang Guangming chimed in.

Meng Yining nodded, somewhat embarrassed: "After all, my family is from the countryside. Although my older brother has a good job now, it's still far behind Yali's family."

“The difference in social status is an objective reality, but it’s not insurmountable,” Yang Guangming said earnestly. “The key lies in the feelings of both people. Brother Zhigang is a good person, capable, and has a bright future. Huang Yali is not the kind of girl who values ​​social status, otherwise she wouldn’t have become good friends with you.”

He paused for a moment, then said, "My purchase of the tickets this time was actually a test. If Huang Yali flatly refuses, it means she has no intention of doing so. In that case, we won't bring it up again to avoid hurting our feelings."

If she accepts, even if it's only after some hesitation, it means she's not opposed to it, and might even have feelings for it.

Then we can continue to create opportunities for them to have more contact.

Meng Yining listened and thought it made a lot of sense. Yang Guangming had considered everything very carefully, and his approach was tactful, avoiding any awkwardness for anyone.

"You're so thoughtful," Meng Yining said sincerely. "Then tonight when we go to the movies, shall we..."

“We’ll sit on one side, and they can sit on the other,” Yang Guangming said with a smile. “Give them some space, but not so awkwardly. After all, it’s our first time watching a movie together, and being too deliberate would be counterproductive.”

"Mm." Meng Yining nodded, feeling a warmth in her heart. Yang Guangming always did things so thoughtfully, which made her feel at ease.

The two exchanged a few more words, then Yang Guangming checked the time and realized it was time to go back. "I'll be going now, see you tonight."

"See you tonight." Meng Yining stood under the tree, watching Yang Guangming walk away before turning back to her dormitory.

She walked with light steps, her heart filled with the joy of a little bird.

Back in the dormitory, Huang Yali was still sitting on the edge of the bed, holding a book in her hand, but her eyes were wandering, and she was obviously not reading it.

They had classes in the afternoon, so they composed themselves and began preparing for their lessons.

However, Meng Yining's thoughts were easily distracted. She would occasionally think about the movie they watched that evening and Yang Guangming's gentle smile. Huang Yali, on the other hand, would sometimes drift off, thinking about Meng Zhigang's tall and upright figure and his steady gaze.

Time slowly passed in anticipation.

After school in the afternoon, Meng Yining packed her things and said to Huang Yali, "I'll go deliver the tickets to my older brother first, and then we'll have dinner together when I get back."

“Okay, I’ll wait for you.” Huang Yali nodded.

Holding the two movie tickets, Meng Yining left the school and headed towards the pharmaceutical factory.

She went downstairs and happened to run into workers returning home from get off work; the building was a bit noisy.

She went up to the third floor and found Meng Zhigang's room. The door was closed, so Meng Yining knocked.

"Who is it?" Meng Zhigang's voice came from inside.

"Brother, it's me."

The door opened quickly. Meng Zhigang was wearing a vest and holding a towel, looking like he had just washed his face.

"Yining? What brings you here? Come in quickly." Meng Zhigang was a little surprised and hurriedly invited his sister into the house.

Meng Yining entered the room.

The room was neatly made, the tables and chairs were clean, and everything was arranged in an orderly manner, giving it a military feel.

"Big brother, you've cleaned it so well," Meng Yining exclaimed.

"It's a habit, something I developed in the army." Meng Zhigang poured his sister a glass of water. "Is something wrong?"

Meng Yining sat down in the chair, took out the two movie tickets from her pocket, and placed them on the table.

"Brother, Guangming bought movie tickets for tonight's 8 PM showing of 'The Red Detachment of Women.' He asked me to bring the tickets to you so we can go see it together."

Meng Zhigang picked up the tickets and looked at them: "Two? Who else?"

“And Yali too.” Meng Yining observed her older brother’s expression. “Guangming bought four tickets. I’ll go with him, and you and Yali will go together.”

Meng Zhigang was stunned.

He went to the movies with Huang Yali? This...

His first reaction was that something was amiss.

Huang Yali is my younger sister's classmate. She is young and comes from a cadre family. I am a demobilized military officer from a rural background. Wouldn't it cause misunderstandings if I went to the movies with her?

But looking at his sister's expectant eyes, and recalling Huang Yali's delicate features and cheerful smile, a slight stirring stirred in a corner of Meng Zhigang's heart.

He's 28, it's time he really started thinking about settling down. His parents have been urging him a lot, and he's anxious himself. But the girls he's been introduced to before just don't seem to have something going for them.

Huang Yali... is different.

She is beautiful but not ostentatious; from a good family but not spoiled; cultured but not arrogant. That time at Yang Guangming's house for dinner, she was poised and graceful, spoke appropriately, and made people feel very comfortable.

If I could be with her...

Meng Zhigang's face flushed slightly. He was thinking too far ahead; it was just about watching a movie together.

"Big brother, what do you think?" Meng Yining asked softly. "If you don't want to go, I'll return the ticket to Guangming."

"Go...go ahead." Meng Zhigang came back to his senses, his voice a little hoarse. "Anyway, it's been a long time since I've watched a movie, so it'll be good to relax."

He paused, then asked, "Comrade Huang Yali...did she agree?"

“Agreed.” Meng Yining smiled. “Yali said she’s free tonight anyway, so let’s go take a look together.”

Meng Zhigang breathed a sigh of relief, but also felt a strange tension. Her agreement meant she wasn't opposed to it. But what should they say when they sat together watching a movie? Would there be an awkward silence?
For the first time, he felt that watching a movie with a girl was more difficult than leading troops in training.

"That's good." Meng Zhigang put the tickets away. "What time do we meet tonight?"

"7:30, at the factory gate." Meng Yining stood up. "I'll head back now, Yali's waiting for me to eat. Big brother, remember to dress neatly."

The last sentence has a slightly teasing tone.

Meng Zhigang blushed and said, "I understand, go back now."

After seeing his sister off, Meng Zhigang closed the door, leaned against it, and let out a long sigh.

My heart is beating a little fast.

He walked to the mirror and looked at his slightly rough but well-defined face. Twenty-eight years old, not young anymore.

Huang Yali is only twenty-one, in the prime of her life. Am I good enough for her?

Meng Zhigang shook his head, trying to clear his mind of these distractions. It's just watching a movie; don't overthink it.

He started rummaging through drawers and closets looking for clothes. He usually wore work clothes or old military uniforms, but today he needed to dress more presentably.

Finally, I chose a slightly worn white short-sleeved shirt, a pair of dark blue trousers, and then took out my rarely worn leather shoes. Although they were a bit old, I could still wear them after a good clean.

After changing my clothes, I looked at myself in the mirror. The white shirt made me look smart, the trousers were crisp, and the leather shoes were shiny. Apart from my slightly dark skin, everything else looked fine.

Meng Zhigang nodded in satisfaction and began to look forward to the evening.

Meanwhile, Yang Guangming returned to the Public Security Section office to continue his afternoon work.

When He Dongliang saw him return, he casually asked, "Guangming, where did you go at noon? You seemed to be in a hurry."

"I went to buy some things," Yang Guangming said vaguely, without mentioning the movie tickets.

He sat down at his desk and began organizing the documents, but his mind was already wandering to the evening.

This was the first time he had formally asked Meng Yining to a movie, and it was also an opportunity for their relationship to take a step further. Sitting side by side in the dark movie theater, occasionally talking in hushed tones, the atmosphere was quite ambiguous.

He had to find the right balance. If he was too hasty, he would frighten her; if he was too slow, he would miss the opportunity.

As for Meng Zhigang and Huang Yali, he also hoped they could have a good start. Meng Zhigang was his future brother-in-law, and Huang Yali was Meng Yining's best friend; if they could get together, it would be perfect.

Time flies when you're busy. When the bell rang to signal the end of the workday, Yang Guangming glanced at his watch; it was 5:30.

He packed his things, said goodbye to his colleagues, and left the office building.

I ate dinner at the cafeteria first, and then went back to the dormitory.

He also needed to change his clothes. He usually wore durable old clothes when he went into the mountains, but today he was going to see a movie with a girl, so he needed to dress more presentably.

After changing my clothes, I looked at myself in the mirror. The shirt fit perfectly, and the trousers were crisp, making me appear even more upright and energetic. The Shanghai watch on my wrist gleamed under the light, adding a touch of mature and composed elegance.

Yang Guangming nodded in satisfaction.

He then took two small packets of raisins from the drawer and put them in his bag. Snacking while watching a movie can relieve tension and increase interaction.

Everything was ready, and it was only seven o'clock.

Yang Guangming sat in the chair, picked up a book at random, and tried to read it, but couldn't concentrate on a single word. His mind was filled with Meng Yining's beautiful face and shy smile.

At 7:20, he stood up, picked up his bag, and walked out of the room.

The corridor was quiet when Zhang, the clerk across the hall, pushed open his door and came out: "Guangming, why are you going out so late?"

"Yeah, I'm going out to take care of some things," Yang Guangming said with a smile.

Officer Zhang glanced at his clothes and winked, "Dressed so smartly, are you going on a date? With that girl with the braids?"

Yang Guangming smiled, neither denying nor admitting it: "Officer Zhang, I'll be going now."

"Go ahead, do your best!" Officer Zhang waved his hand with a smile.

Sunlight streamed downstairs as I walked towards the factory gate.

On a summer evening, the sky was not yet completely dark. A touch of orange-red lingered in the western sky, and a gentle breeze brought a hint of coolness.

There were already three people waiting at the factory gate.

Meng Yining and Huang Yali stood together; both girls had changed their clothes. Meng Yining wore a light pink dress, the hem of which reached her knees, revealing her slender calves. Her hair was braided into a thick braid, hanging down in front of her chest, making her look pure and lovely.

Huang Yali wore a white short-sleeved shirt with a blue suspender skirt. Her short, ear-length hair was neat and refreshing, making her look lively and playful.

Meng Zhigang stood a little further away, wearing a white shirt and dark blue trousers, his posture upright. When he saw Yang Guangming, he smiled somewhat awkwardly.

Yang Guangming walked over and greeted the two girls first: "Yining, Comrade Yali, have you been waiting long?"

“No, we just arrived too,” Meng Yining said softly, her eyes sparkling.

Huang Yali smiled and said, "Comrade Yang looks really energetic today."

"You're all very beautiful too." Yang Guangming sincerely praised, then looked at Meng Zhigang, "Brother Zhigang, are you ready?"

Meng Zhigang nodded, his voice a little tense: "Ready."

Yang Guangming could see his nervousness, so he walked over, patted him on the shoulder, and whispered, "Relax, it's just watching a movie."

Meng Zhigang took a deep breath and nodded.

“Let’s go then,” Yang Guangming said. “It’s about a twenty-minute walk, which is just the right time.”

The four left the factory area and headed towards the center of the county town.

The streets were more crowded in the evening than during the day. Workers heading home, elderly people taking a stroll, and children playing created a vibrant scene full of life.

After walking a few steps, they naturally split into two pairs.

Yang Guangming and Meng Yining walked in front, while Meng Zhigang and Huang Yali followed behind, about ten steps apart.

At first, all four of them were somewhat silent.

"Are you tired today?" Yang Guangming casually started a conversation.

"It's alright, there are only two classes this afternoon," Meng Yining replied softly. "The children were quite well-behaved today."

"That's good." Yang Guangming smiled. "When I was a child, I looked forward to the end of school the most. As soon as school was over, I would run up the mountain to catch grasshoppers, raid bird nests, and play until it got dark before going home."

Meng Yining couldn't help but laugh: "Were you this naughty when you were little?"

“Yes, I got beaten a lot,” Yang Guangming said. “I only stopped when I grew up and became more sensible.”

“I was a very well-behaved child. Apart from going to school, I would help with chores at home,” Meng Yining recalled. “Occasionally, I would go to the river to wash clothes and play in the water with my friends for a while, but I didn’t dare to stay in the water for too long.”

“It’s good for girls to be quiet.” Yang Guangming looked at her. “With your personality and patience, you are indeed very suitable to be a teacher.”

Meng Yining blushed and lowered her head: "I don't know if it's appropriate or not, I just like being with children."

“If they like you, that’s the best thing.” Yang Guangming’s tone was very sincere. “You have patience and love, the children will definitely like you.”

Feeling warm inside after receiving such affirmation, Meng Yining glanced up at Yang Guangming before quickly looking away.

The two gradually relaxed and started chatting about fun things from their childhood, creating a more and more harmonious atmosphere.

After that, Meng Zhigang and Huang Yali became much more silent.

Meng Zhigang walked with his back straight, eyes fixed straight ahead, like he was marching in formation. Huang Yali walked beside him, occasionally stealing a glance at him. Seeing how serious he was, she wanted to say something but didn't know what to say.

After walking for a while, Huang Yali mustered up her courage and asked softly, "Brother Meng, did you often watch movies when you were in the army?"

Meng Zhigang seemed to be startled awake and quickly replied, "Yes... I saw it. The army often shows movies, all of them revolutionary themes."

"Oh." Huang Yali nodded, then fell silent.

The two continued walking in silence.

Meng Zhigang was anxious. He was a soldier, usually decisive and efficient in his speech and actions, so why did he become so tongue-tied in front of a girl?
He racked his brains for a topic and finally managed to blurt out, "Comrade Huang Yali, do you...do you like watching movies?"

He regretted it as soon as the words left his mouth. That was such a silly question; how could someone who doesn't like movies agree to come?
Huang Yali laughed: "I like it. When I was in teachers' college, the school showed movies every month, and Yining and I went to see them every time."

"That's good." Meng Zhigang breathed a sigh of relief. "I've heard that 'The Red Detachment of Women' is very good, but I haven't seen it yet."

“I haven’t seen it either, I’ve only heard people talk about it,” Huang Yali said. “It’s about the story of the women’s revolutionary team on Hainan Island, it should be very touching.”

“Films with revolutionary themes are all very educational,” Meng Zhigang said.

The conversation stalled again.

Huang Yali found it amusing. This Brother Meng seemed quite mature and composed, so why was he so nervous talking to her? Was she really that scary?

She initiated a conversation: "Brother Meng, you're a platoon leader in the army, right? You usually lead troops in training, right?"

“Yes, it’s mainly about training and management.” Meng Zhigang became more natural when talking about the military. “Leading soldiers is not easy. You have to be strict with them, but you also have to care about them. We have a few new recruits in our platoon who didn’t know anything when they first came. We had to teach them step by step.”

“That must be very hard work,” Huang Yali said.

"You get used to it and don't feel it anymore," Meng Zhigang said. "It's normal for soldiers to suffer a bit and be tired. It's about protecting our country."

He said this with the pride of a soldier.

Huang Yali looked at his resolute profile, and her heart stirred slightly. This man was indeed different from the refined and cultured cadres in the factory; he possessed a special kind of charisma.

The two gradually warmed up to each other, and although the conversation still revolved around work and experiences, at least the conversation wasn't awkward anymore. (End of Chapter)