Courtyard House: Initial Donation of 50 Million

The next few days felt both short and long for Sha Zhu and Yu Li. Short because they had things on their minds, and the days flew by; long because each sunset meant they were one step closer to the "official visit," and the mix of anticipation and trepidation made time seem to stretch out.

Sha Zhu thoroughly cleaned the house. The cobwebs that had accumulated over the years on the ceiling and in the corners were swept away; the windowpanes were polished until they reflected images; and the uneven cement floor was mopped repeatedly. He even got some whitewash and carefully repainted the yellowed and blackened areas of the walls. The house didn't have much furniture, but every piece was spotless. The old eight-immortal table legs were a bit wobbly, so he found wooden wedges to tighten them and sanded down the rough edges. He Yushui also contributed her saved pocket money, buying several feet of plain blue floral cloth to cover the table and sewing matching cushions for the two old chairs. The whole house, though still simple, radiated a rare cleanliness and vitality.

"Brother, you're putting in even more effort than you're preparing for a major sanitation inspection!" He Yushui joked.

"What do you know? This is about attitude!" Sha Zhu glared at his sister, but his hands didn't stop. He was carefully nailing several certificates printed with "Model Worker" and "Advanced Worker" back to the most conspicuous place on the wall. These were the honors he had earned with his skills over the years. He used to think they meant nothing, but now he felt they were extremely important—they were his "capital," a kind of "confidence" he could give to his future wife.

As for the food, Sha Zhu pulled out all the stops, starting preparations two days in advance. For the braised pork belly, he chose marbled streaks, blanching them first, then caramelizing them with sugar, and simmering them over low heat for a full hour until tender, flavorful, and melt-in-your-mouth. The steamed fish was a lively carp, obtained through connections with the seafood company, ensuring its freshness. Four-happiness meatballs, sweet and sour pork, braised prawns… these were all impressive dishes that showcased his skill and made a grand impression. The vegetarian dishes were equally meticulous; stir-fried vegetables had to be crisp and vibrant, and the cold shredded vegetables required fine knife work. Besides white rice, he also prepared a steamer of large, blooming steamed buns, symbolizing "rising prosperity."

"Brother, this looks like Chinese New Year! No, it's even more lavish than Chinese New Year!" He Yushui exclaimed, looking at the ingredients piled up on the kitchen counter.

"Can we be careless on our first official visit?" Sha Zhu, wearing an apron, was busy around the stove, fine beads of sweat on his forehead, but his eyes shone brightly. "We have to let Yu Li's family know that the He family is sincere and has the ability to give her daughter a good life!"

Meanwhile, Yu Li's family was also making preparations. Li Yumei rummaged through drawers and found Yu Li's best outfit—a light pink polyester shirt and a pair of dark blue polyester pants, which, although slightly faded from washing, were clean and neat. She also went to the department store to buy a few feet of new fabric and quickly made Yu Li a fashionable "Lenin suit" coat, making her look smart and elegant.

"Lily, when you get there, be sweet-talking and quick-witted," Li Yumei said patiently as she straightened her daughter's collar. "When you see elders, greet them respectfully. If you don't know something, ask Yushui. Help with chores, but don't be too eager, or it'll seem like we're chasing after you. Speak and act confidently and naturally, don't be shy. Although our family's circumstances are average, our daughter is good enough for He Yuzhu!"

Yu Li blushed as she listened intently to her mother's every word of advice, feeling both nervous and courageous. She knew that this visit was not just a matter between the two of them, but also the first formal "confrontation" between their two families. She couldn't let her parents down, and she also had to save face for herself.

The visit was scheduled for Sunday.

Early that morning, the weather was perfect, with clear skies and no cloud cover. Sha Zhu got up before dawn and checked the house inside and out again to make sure everything was in order. At nine o'clock sharp, he changed into his "blind date" white shirt and blue pants, combed his hair meticulously, and even secretly applied some of He Yushui's face cream (which He Yushui discovered and laughed at him for). Then he started his gleaming grass-green Red Star car.

When the car stopped again at the entrance of Yu Li's alley, the commotion was even greater than before. This time, it was the groom's formal visit to pick her up, which carried a different significance. Amidst the envious, curious, and inquisitive gazes of the neighbors, Yu Li, dressed in a brand-new Lenin suit and carrying the "four gifts" prepared by her mother (two packets of pastries, two bottles of wine, a packet of candy, and a piece of cloth), walked out with a slightly shy but composed gait, accompanied by Yu Haitang. Sha Zhu quickly got out of the car, took the gifts, and then eagerly opened the car door. Yu Li sat in the passenger seat, and Yu Haitang sat in the back. The car, watched by everyone, drove off again towards Nanluoguxiang.

Inside the car, the atmosphere was more formal and reserved than during the last outing. Sha Zhu drove with his eyes fixed straight ahead, occasionally glancing at Yu Li in the rearview mirror. Yu Li sat upright, her hands folded on her knees, looking straight ahead. Yu Haitang wanted to lighten the mood, but seeing the two of them looking so tense, she could only suppress her laughter and sit obediently.

"Um... Yu Li, don't be nervous, everyone in the courtyard... is fine." Sha Zhu finally managed to say this after a long pause.

"Yes, I'm not nervous," Yu Li replied softly, smiling at him. That smile was like a spring breeze, making Sha Zhu's tense nerves relax a little.

The car drove into Nanluoguxiang and stopped in front of courtyard number 95. At this time, the courtyard was bustling with activity. On weekends, many people were resting at home, doing laundry, hanging out laundry, making repairs, playing with their children, and others like Yan Bugui, who had brought a small stool to sit at the door and "observed" the activity inside and outside the courtyard.

The moment the light green car appeared, it became the focus of the entire courtyard. Sha Zhu parked the car, took a deep breath, and opened the car door. Yu Li and Yu Haitang also got out of the car. Sha Zhu, carrying the heavy "four-color gift" in his hand, straightened his back and said to Yu Li, "Let's go home." He said these three words with unusual solemnity.

Yu Li nodded and followed him. Yu Haitang, on the other hand, curiously surveyed the renowned courtyard house. With its blue bricks, gray tiles, and ancient trees, it possessed a certain charm and grandeur characteristic of old Beijing hutongs, despite its somewhat dilapidated state. It was far superior to their own large, cramped courtyard.

As soon as the three entered the courtyard, they were immediately surrounded by all sorts of gazes.

The third uncle, Yan Bugui, was the first to approach, pushing up his glasses and putting on his usual shrewd smile: "Oh, Sha Zhu is back? And this is…" He glanced at Yu Li, quickly assessing her in his mind: decent-looking, tall, her clothes were ordinary but neat, and she had a quiet demeanor, not like someone from a humble family. She was even carrying gifts… Hmm, it seems Sha Zhu is serious this time and has found a good match.

"Uncle, this is Yu Li, my girlfriend," Sha Zhu introduced. Then he said to Yu Li, "Yu Li, this is Uncle Yan from the courtyard, Teacher Yan, who teaches at Hongxing Elementary School."

"Hello, Teacher Yan." Yu Li bowed slightly and greeted him politely, her voice clear and bright.

"Oh, very good! Comrade Yu Li, hello, hello!" Yan Bugui nodded repeatedly, quite pleased with the way Yu Li addressed him as "partner" and her politeness. "Please come in, please come in! Silly Zhu, you have good taste!"

As they were talking, Qin Huairu, who was washing clothes at the sink in the middle courtyard, straightened up, still holding a wet sheet in her hand, her gaze complex as she looked over. Yu Li's youth, quiet demeanor, the generous gifts she carried, and Sha Zhu's attentive manner all felt like fine needles, gently pricking her heart. Once upon a time, Sha Zhu would look at her with those slightly ingratiating and eager eyes, and would save the best food from the cafeteria for her. Although his motives weren't pure, that "kindness" was genuine. Now, that "kindness" was about to belong to another woman, a woman who seemed better than her in every way. She felt a pang of sadness, a sense of emptiness, but mostly a resigned acceptance. Jia Dongxu had a future, she had someone to rely on, and Sha Zhu… let him go. She forced a smile and nodded to Yu Li as a greeting.

Yu Li returned the smile politely. She knew Qin Huairu from He Yushui, and now that she saw her in person, although she was dressed simply and doing manual labor, she did have a certain charm and allure. No wonder she had once captivated Sha Zhu. However, judging from her expression, she didn't seem to have any ill intentions, which reassured Yu Li somewhat.

The window of the Jia family creaked open a crack, revealing Jia Zhangshi's mean face. Her murky eyes swept over Yu Li like searchlights, from head to toe, as if she were muttering something silently. Finally, she pursed her lips and closed the window again. The critical and unfriendly look in her eyes made Yu Li's heart tighten slightly.

"Ignore her, she's a senile old woman," Sha Zhu whispered to Lily, his tone a mixture of disgust and a hint of reassurance.

In the backyard, Xu Damao also came out after hearing the commotion. Leaning against his doorframe, a cigarette between his fingers, he watched with a half-smile. Seeing Yu Li's appearance and demeanor, a flicker of surprise and barely perceptible jealousy flashed in his eyes. That idiot Zhu, he really managed to snag a good one? This Yu Li is way better than that country bumpkin Qin Jingru! He said sourly, "Hey! Uncle Zhu, not bad! You brought your sister-in-law home without a word? When are you having the wedding? Don't be late for it!"

Sha Zhu was in a good mood and didn't bother arguing with him, so he snorted, "Xu Damao, mind your own business! Just wait to drink your Uncle Mao's wedding wine on National Day!"

Liu Haizhong strolled over with his hands behind his back, adopting the air of an old man, and sized Yu Li up and down, nodding: "Hmm, not bad, clearly a girl from a respectable family. Shazhu, now that you're married, you're an adult. You should work even harder at the factory and set a good example!"

"Understood, Second Uncle," Sha Zhu replied perfunctorily. All he wanted to do now was get Yu Li into his room as quickly as possible.

Hearing the commotion, Yi Zhonghai came out of the house. He spends most of his time taking care of his children in their newly allocated apartment, and he just happened to be back to pick up some things. Seeing Yu Li, he paused for a moment, then a complex smile, tinged with emotion and apology, appeared on his face. He walked over, nodded to Sha Zhu, then looked at Yu Li, his tone gentle: "This must be Comrade Yu Li, right? Hello, I'm Yi Zhonghai, a long-time resident of the compound. I've watched Yu Zhu grow up; he's honest and has excellent skills. If you marry him, your future won't be bad."

Yu Li knew this was the same "old man" who had schemed against Sha Zhu, but seeing his sincere attitude and clear eyes now, he seemed to have truly changed. She politely replied, "Master Yi, hello. Yu Shui often mentions you."

"Okay, okay." Yi Zhonghai nodded, said nothing more, and stepped aside to make way.

Sha Zhu, leading Yu Li, finally broke through the "siege" and arrived at the east wing of the central courtyard—his own home. Pushing open the door, a bright and tidy room appeared before Yu Li. Although the furniture was old, it showed signs of careful cleaning everywhere. The windows were spotless, the certificates of merit were eye-catching, the tablecloths and chair cushions exuded warmth, and a faint aroma of food wafted in the air.

"Yu Li, Haitang, come in, make yourselves at home," Sha Zhu greeted them warmly, quickly pouring them tea with sugar that he had prepared beforehand. He Yushui also smiled and pulled Yu Li to sit down.

Yu Li looked around at this place that might soon become her new home, and a strange sense of peace welled up inside her. It wasn't as modern as an apartment building, but it was spacious, sunny, and had its own separate entrance. Most importantly, everything here reflected Sha Zhu's heartfelt intentions in welcoming her. That clumsy sincerity touched her more than any flowery words.

"Brother He, you've cleaned this up so well," Yu Li said sincerely.

"Hey, just messing around, just messing around." Sha Zhu rubbed his hands together, chuckling to himself, but his eyes were shining as he looked at Yu Li, completely satisfied.

After sitting for a while and drinking tea, Yu Li stood up and said to Sha Zhu, "Brother He, shall I... help Yu Shui cook? I can help out."

"No need, no need! How could I let you do it! I've already prepared everything, just waiting to cook! You and Haitang can sit down, read a book, listen to the radio, and it'll be ready in a little while!" Sha Zhu quickly waved his hand, pressed her back into the chair, tied on his apron, and whirled into the kitchen.

Soon, the kitchen was filled with the rhythmic sounds of chopping vegetables, the sizzling of hot oil hitting the pan, and a variety of mouthwatering aromas. Yu Li couldn't sit still any longer and went to the kitchen doorway, watching Sha Zhu's busy figure at the stove. His movements were skillful, wielding the wok with a powerful and rhythmic grace, his expression focused, as if he were creating a magnificent work of art. Sweat streamed down his forehead, but he didn't bother to wipe it away. A soft spot in Yu Li's heart was touched. She picked up a clean towel, gently walked over, and handed it to him.

"Wipe your sweat."

Sha Zhu was taken aback, then took the towel. It was warm to the touch and carried the faint scent of soap from the girl. He wiped his face haphazardly, looking at Yu Li's face so close to his, filled with concern and tenderness. His heart felt as sweet as if he had drunk honey, and all he could do was grin foolishly, "Okay, thank you."

Feeling embarrassed by his gaze, Yu Li turned around to help He Yushui set the table. Yu Haitang, on the other hand, curiously touched and looked around, showing great interest in her future brother-in-law's home.

Before long, a sumptuous meal was laid out on the table. The braised pork belly was glistening and tempting, the steamed fish was fragrant and delicious, the four-happiness meatballs were plump and round, the sweet and sour pork was golden in color, and the braised prawns were bright red. Along with several stir-fried seasonal vegetables and cold dishes, the eight-immortal table was fully occupied. The steaming hot steamed buns and the white rice were glistening with every grain.

"Yu Li, Haitang, sit down and eat while it's hot! I don't know if it will suit your tastes." Sha Zhu took off his apron and called out.

"Brother He, you've done such a wonderful job! This is enough for a banquet!" Yu Haitang exclaimed in amazement.

Yu Li was also amazed by the abundance and exquisiteness of the dishes. It wasn't just about skillful cooking, but also about the heartfelt sentiment behind it. She picked up her chopsticks and tasted a little of everything; the flavors were indeed as wonderful as she had imagined, even better. The braised pork was rich yet not greasy, melting in her mouth; the steamed fish was tender and incredibly flavorful; the sweet and sour pork was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a perfect balance of sweet and sour…

"It's delicious." Yu Li praised softly, her eyes shining as she looked at Sha Zhu.

Just that one sentence made Sha Zhu feel that all his hard work was worth it. He was happier than if he had eaten braised pork. He kept piling food onto Yu Li's plate: "Eat more if you like it! This fish has no bones in its belly, you eat this! A meatball, please! A shrimp, I'll peel it for you..."

He Yushui and Yu Haitang secretly smiled as they watched the two of them, one eating with great enthusiasm and the other with shyness. The meal was warm and pleasant. The aroma of the food and the sounds of laughter drifted out of the window, letting the neighbors in the courtyard, whether envious, jealous, or curious, know clearly: Sha Zhu from the middle courtyard was really getting married this time, and he had found a wonderful girl.

After the meal, Sha Zhu insisted on clearing the dishes, resolutely refusing to let Yu Li do anything. Yu Li and Yu Haitang helped wipe the table and sweep the floor. Once everything was tidied up, the four of them sat and chatted for a while. Sha Zhu took out his treasured photo album, showing Yu Li pictures of him and Yu Shui when they were little, and telling her some funny childhood stories, making Yu Li giggle softly. Sunlight streamed through the glass windows, warmly filling the room, creating a harmonious and natural atmosphere.

As the sun began to set, Yu Li got up to say goodbye. Although Sha Zhu was reluctant to part with her, he knew he should take her home. He insisted on driving her, and then gave her a portion of the "four-color gift" (wine and sugar) that he had kept for himself, along with a carton of "Da Qianmen" cigarettes and two packets of pastries that he had prepared beforehand, so that she could take them back to her parents.

"This...this is too much trouble..." Yu Li declined.

"Here! This is for your uncle and aunt! It's your first time visiting, what would it look like to go back empty-handed!" Sha Zhu said without waiting for a reply.

Yu Li had no choice but to accept it, feeling a warm glow in her heart.

On the way back, the atmosphere was much more relaxed. Sha Zhu couldn't help but ask, "Yu Li, what do you think of... my house? Is it alright? Did the people in the yard... scare you?"

Yu Li thought for a moment and said seriously, "Your home is very nice, clean and cozy. Your cooking is especially delicious. The people in the courtyard... Teacher Yan is very polite, Master Yi seems friendly, that Aunt Jia... she's a bit formidable, but I'm not afraid. Brother He, as long as you're good to me, I don't care what others do."

These words were like a reassuring pill, finally putting Sha Zhu's mind at ease, leaving him with nothing but joy and determination. "Yu Li, don't worry! I'll definitely treat you well! Even better than I treat myself! From now on, we'll live our own little lives behind closed doors, and nobody can bother us!"

Looking at his confident expression, Yu Li felt a sweet warmth in her heart and softly hummed in agreement.

The car stopped again at the entrance of Yu Li's alley. This time, Sha Zhu mustered his courage and followed Yu Li and her sister into the house to formally meet Yu Jianguo and Li Yumei. Although still a little nervous, Sha Zhu's sincerity and honesty moved Yu's parents. After a simple dinner (Yu Li's mother added two more dishes), both sides formally approved the marriage. The wedding was put on the agenda. It was initially agreed that after Xu Damao's National Day celebration, a date would be chosen to hold Sha Zhu and Yu Li's wedding, aiming to bring the new bride into the family before winter.

When Sha Zhu drove back to courtyard number 95, satisfied, the sky was already full of stars. The courtyard was quiet, but behind many windows, perhaps people were still discussing the day's excitement and speculating about the quality of Sha Zhu's marriage. The light in the east wing of the central courtyard stayed on late. Sha Zhu lay on the bed, his hands behind his head, staring at the ceiling, unable to suppress the smile on his lips. He could almost see Yu Li, wearing a red coat, sitting in this room, becoming his wife, He Yu Zhu. Just thinking about that scene made him feel that all the frustration and waiting of the past had been worthwhile.

In the cramped little house of Yu Li's family, Yu Li, blushing, recounted her day's events and feelings, bit by bit, to her mother's soft questioning. Yu Jianguo listened silently, occasionally taking a puff of his cigarette, a look of satisfaction on his face. This home, too, seemed to be filled with light and hope because of the upcoming happy event.

At No. 95 Nanluoguxiang, a new story quietly unfolded with the comings and goings of a grass-green car. The smoke from the chimneys remained, the gossip continued, but some things were ultimately different. For instance, the heart of the bachelor in the east wing of the central courtyard and the hopes for the future of the ordinary working-class family at the alley entrance were now closely intertwined because of this successful visit, firmly heading towards the harbor called "marriage." Whether the road ahead will be smooth sailing is another story.