Siheyuan (courtyard house): My father, Li Yunlong!

Lou Xiao'e occasionally chimed in, creating a harmonious atmosphere. Lou's mother mainly took care of the meals, and when she occasionally asked about Li Zhenhua's family situation, Li Zhenhua politely brushed it off with phrases like "My father is busy with work, and my mother takes care of things at home."

After a few rounds of drinks and several dishes, Lou Bancheng gradually steered the conversation back on track.

"Zhenhua, ah..."

He swirled the wine in his glass, his tone becoming more formal.

"Director Yang told me that the safety management methods you implemented in the factory are very insightful. Especially the 'total responsibility system' and 'hazard identification,' I think they make a lot of sense. To be honest, I've run some factories before and I know the importance of safe production, but I rarely see such systematic and institutionalized thinking as yours. How did you come up with these ideas?"

Li Zhenhua put down his knife and fork and answered calmly.

"Uncle Lou, you flatter me. Actually, these ideas are based on lessons learned and observations from reality. Our country is now vigorously developing industry, but the foundation is weak, experience is limited, and many workers lack safety awareness, making accidents prone to occur. Relying solely on slogans from above and passive execution from below has limited effectiveness. I was thinking, could we implement safety responsibility on everyone's shoulders, making everyone feel that they are not working for others, but are responsible for their own and their families' happiness? At the same time, we should shift from post-accident remediation to pre-accident prevention, proactively identifying potential sources of danger and finding ways to plug loopholes in advance. In this way, perhaps we can reduce bloodshed and fewer tragedies of families being torn apart."

His tone was calm, but it carried a genuine concern, which made Lou Bancheng nod in agreement.

"Well said! People-centered and prevention-oriented. That's a far-sighted approach."

Lou Bancheng exclaimed in admiration, then subtly changed the subject.

"However, many factories nowadays prioritize output. If you do these things, won't you be seen as neglecting your core business, or as increasing costs, which will create a lot of resistance?"

Li Zhenhua smiled slightly, knowing that a test had begun.

"Uncle Lou is right, there is indeed resistance. Any new thing will encounter obstacles from ingrained habits when it's implemented. But I think we can't just look at short-term gains. The losses from a major accident could far exceed the preventative costs incurred in normal times. More importantly, human life is priceless. As for whether it's neglecting our core responsibilities… I believe that ensuring production safety and improving management efficiency are our most important 'core responsibilities.' As long as the methods are appropriate, it will ultimately promote production, not hinder it. The key is to gain the support of key leaders and ensure that the workers truly understand and benefit from it."

He acknowledged the difficulties while also stating his position and strategy, providing a flawless answer.

Lou Bancheng's eyes showed even greater appreciation. He pondered for a moment, then lowered his voice and asked casually.

"Zhenhua, what are your thoughts on the future economic trajectory of our country? Will those of us who used to be involved in manufacturing still be able to make a difference in the future?"

This issue is more sensitive and goes straight to the heart of the matter.

Lou Xiao'e and her mother also stopped what they were doing and looked at Li Zhenhua.

Li Zhenhua's mind raced; he knew that Lou Bancheng was assessing his political insight and value.

He thought for a moment and answered cautiously.

"Uncle Lou, I work in specific business areas and don't know much about macro policies. But I believe that industrialization is the only way for a country to become prosperous and strong. We are now advocating 'self-reliance and hard work,' and in the future, we will definitely continue to vigorously develop the real economy. As for the specific forms and policies, they will certainly be constantly adjusted and improved. But one thing is certain: as long as you are sincerely contributing to the country's development and abide by the law, no matter what you did in the past, you will have a way out. After all, building a new China requires uniting all forces that can be united."

He did not give a specific prediction, but emphasized the general direction of "saving the country through industry" and the premise of "abiding by laws and regulations," which not only conformed to mainstream values ​​but also gave Lou Bancheng a glimmer of hope, but did not make any specific promises or hints.

Lou Bancheng nodded thoughtfully after hearing this, his smile unchanged, but a complex look flashed deep in his eyes.

He could tell that the young man in front of him was extremely clear-headed and cautious, and could not be swayed by a few kind words or displays of wealth.

"Well said! Industry is the key to national salvation, and we must abide by the law. Zhenhua, you're so young, yet your insight is remarkable—truly rare!"

Lou Bancheng raised his glass.

"Come on, let's drink to the nation's development and to the bright future of you young people!"

In the ensuing conversation, Lou Bancheng stopped probing sensitive topics and instead focused more on the specific details of corporate management, demonstrating his profound expertise in this area.

Li Zhenhua was delighted, and the two chatted happily. Lou Xiao'e was overjoyed to see her father praising Li Zhenhua so highly, and she took extra care of him during the meal, her eyes overflowing with affection.

The banquet lasted for more than two hours before it ended.

Li Zhenhua politely declined Lou Bancheng's offer to send him a car, saying he would take a walk and sober up a bit.

Leaving the Lou Mansion and walking along the quiet tree-lined path, the evening breeze dispelled the effects of the alcohol, and Li Zhenhua's mind became exceptionally clear.

Lou Bancheng's intention to win her over was very obvious, and Lou Xiao'e's goodwill towards him was beyond doubt.

The wealth, connections, and potential resources represented by the Lou family are indeed tempting.

However, the tide of time rolls ever onward, and the future of old-style capitalists like the Lou family is fraught with uncertainty.

Getting too deeply involved with them carries enormous risks.

"You can use them, but you must keep your distance. Never make promises lightly, and never get dragged into it."

Li Zhenhua reminded himself again.

Although Lou Xiao'e is beautiful and comes from a prominent family, in his heart she is more of a pawn to be handled with caution. She might bring some pleasure and convenience, but she is definitely not someone he would risk his life for. In contrast, a woman like Lin Taotao, with impeccable background, outstanding abilities, and a clean record, is a safer and more suitable choice for long-term development.

Of course, all of this is predicated on the premise that one must continuously become stronger.

Meanwhile, inside the Lou mansion. After seeing Li Zhenhua off, Lou Bancheng's smile gradually faded, and he spoke to his wife and daughter.

"As you all have seen, this Li Zhenhua is no ordinary person. He has connections, ability, and intelligence, and what's even more remarkable is his composure and reluctance to make pronouncements."

Lou's mother nodded.

"He is indeed an outstanding young man, much better than those introduced before. It's just... he seems too composed, a bit hard to fathom."

Lou Xiao'e couldn't wait to say it.

"Dad, Mom, I think Comrade Zhenhua is really great! What he said today made a lot of sense, much better than those people who just talk big!"

Looking at his daughter's adoring expression, Lou Bancheng sighed inwardly, "A daughter is like a tree that cannot be kept at home once she grows up."

He patted his daughter on the shoulder.

"Xiao'e, you have a good eye. A young talent like Li Zhenhua is worth investing in. However, these things can't be rushed. A man like him can't be swayed by small favors. You need to create more opportunities to get to know him, but be careful not to scare him away. The future hope of our Lou family may lie with him."

With her father's explicit support, Lou Xiao'e was overjoyed and had already begun planning her next "chance encounter."

Lou Bancheng, however, thought further ahead. He decided that he would not only support his daughter's romantic development, but also, at the appropriate time, make some "strategic" investments in Hongxing Steel Rolling Mill, or rather, in the work under Li Zhenhua's supervision, through more formal channels. This could include donating equipment or providing technical information to further solidify the business.

Li Zhenhua will be an important move for the Lou family in this new era.

While Li Zhenhua handled things with ease at the Lou residence, the undercurrents within the courtyard, quietly stirred up by Yi Zhonghai, began to coalesce into a resentment and jealousy directed at Li Zhenhua.

Since the day he was publicly humiliated and dismissed from his position as an elder, Yi Zhonghai has become much quieter on the surface. He just goes to work and comes home every day, and when he sees his neighbors, he usually walks by with his head down, as if he has resigned himself to his fate.

But the resentment and fear in his heart grew wildly like poisonous weeds.

He knew that he had lost his authority in the hospital and his hopes for retirement had become slim. All of this was thanks to Li Zhenhua!

The deaf old woman's words about "borrowing strength" and "waiting" became his only belief that kept him going.

He began to lurk like a venomous snake in the shadows, waiting for his chance to strike.

His goal was to incite anyone in the institute who might harbor resentment or jealousy towards Li Zhenhua.

His first target was Liu Haizhong. This second uncle (although now only nominally in power) had an insatiable thirst for officialdom, was simple-minded, and easily provoked.

That evening, Yi Zhonghai, carrying half a bottle of bulk liquor, strolled over to Liu Haizhong's house.

Liu Haizhong was drinking alone with a plate of peanuts. He was feeling down because he had been given a major demerit and couldn't hold his head up at the factory.

"Old Liu, having a drink?"

Yi Zhonghai put on a fake expression of concern and sat down on his own.

"Hmph, Old Yi, what's up?"

Liu Haizhong didn't look too friendly; he felt that Yi Zhonghai had dragged him down.

"It's nothing, I just felt really pent up and wanted to talk to you."

Yi Zhonghai sighed and poured himself a glass of wine.

"Tell me, what kind of world is this... We've worked diligently in this department for decades, we've done our part, even if we haven't achieved anything great, we've certainly put in the effort, right? And what's the result? Some young upstart is riding roughshod over us! He dismisses us just like that, gives us a demerit just like that, without showing us any leniency!"

These words struck a nerve with Liu Haizhong, causing his fat to tremble as he muttered.

"What can we do? He's a deputy section chief, he has connections, we can't afford to offend him!"

"So what if he's a deputy section chief? Does that mean he can look down on us old workers?"

Yi Zhonghai lowered his voice and leaned closer to speak.

"Old Liu, you don't know. I heard that Li Zhenhua is incredibly disrespectful to Director Yang at the factory, always bringing up new plans to show off his abilities! He doesn't even respect us old guys! I think he doesn't take you, a level seven forging master, seriously at all! He thinks we're just outdated relics who are in his way!"

Liu Haizhong was already both afraid of and jealous of Li Zhenhua. With Yi Zhonghai's provocation, a surge of anger welled up inside him, and he said with a red face and thick neck.

"He wouldn't dare! I, Liu Haizhong, am a respected figure in the factory!"

"What's there to be afraid of?"

Yi Zhonghai added fuel to the fire.

"Look at him now, he's all-powerful in the yard, and he's getting along famously in the factory. I reckon his next move will be to purge us 'old guard.' Old Liu, you better watch out, lest he find some excuse to strip you of your level seven worker status!"

Liu Haizhong was terrified by what Yi Zhonghai said. The more he thought about it, the more he felt that Yi Zhonghai made sense. His fear of Li Zhenhua was gradually replaced by a strong hostility.

He took a large gulp of wine.

"Damn it! I'm not finished with him!"

Yi Zhonghai sneered inwardly; the first move had been made.

The second target is Sha Zhu.

Sha Zhu is simple-minded and devoted to Qin Huairu, making him the best breakthrough point.

Yi Zhonghai found an opportunity when Sha Zhu was delivering lunchboxes to the Jia family and "bumped into" him by the Moon Gate.

"Zhu Zi, you're sending food to the Qin family again? You're so kind."

Yi Zhonghai's tone was one of "reflection".

"Hey, grandpa... no, Master Yi, Sister Qin and the others have it tough, I'll help them if I can."

Sha Zhu scratched his head.

"Yes, Huai Ru has had a tough time. Dong Xu is gone, and she's been supporting the family all by herself."

Yi Zhonghai then changed the subject, his tone becoming "worried".

"But Zhu Zi, there are some things I'm not sure if I should say..."

"What is it? Master Yi, please speak."

Sha Zhu asked curiously.

"I heard... Huai Ru has been getting quite close to Director Li at the factory lately."

Yi Zhonghai lowered his voice and said mysteriously.

"Director Li has been taking exceptionally good care of her. Not only did he arrange a job for her, but he also helped her get credit and a reward for her during the oil incident. We see each other at the factory every day. Director Li is young and promising, and he's helped her so much... Do you think Huai Ru, a young widow, wouldn't be grateful? Won't this gratitude turn sour over time?"

Sha Zhu's expression changed instantly.

"Master Yi, you...you mustn't be talking nonsense! Sister Qin isn't that kind of person! Li Zhenhua...he wouldn't dare!"

"I'm not making this up."

Yi Zhonghai acted as if he was doing this for your own good.

"Zhu Zi, think about it. Why is Li Zhenhua so good to Qin Huairu? Just because she's our neighbor? There are plenty of struggling employees and their families in the factory! Why doesn't he help others? Besides, what wouldn't Li Zhenhua do? He's a section chief; he can do whatever he wants in the factory! If he really has feelings for Huairu, you... can you stop him?"

Sha Zhu was struck dumb. Instantly, he recalled that Qin Huairu seemed to be paying more attention to her appearance lately, and sometimes she would mention "Director Li said..." when she came home from get off work. Moreover, she seemed to be aloof towards him. These details that he had not paid attention to before were magnified infinitely by Yi Zhonghai's words, and a strong sense of jealousy and panic seized him.

His face was ashen, and his fists were clenched.

"He wouldn't dare! I...I'll fight him to the death!"

Yi Zhonghai quickly pretended to dissuade him.

"Zhu Zi, don't be impulsive! I'm just reminding you to be careful. After all, everyone in the courtyard knows how you feel about Huai Ru. Don't let it end up like this... sigh!"

He sighed heavily, leaving behind endless thoughts, and turned to leave.

Sha Zhu stood there, his chest heaving violently, his mind filled with Yi Zhonghai's words. When he looked at the Jia family's window, even the lights seemed blinding.

His gratitude towards Li Zhenhua (because Li Zhenhua indirectly helped him remove the obstacle of Jia Zhangshi) vanished instantly, leaving only anger at having his beloved taken away.