Siheyuan: I will never tolerate gambling and drugs!

The study on the second floor

Xu Lin's voice was strong and resonant, echoing in the quiet study.

Bai Shouye's pupils contracted almost imperceptibly. He was very satisfied with Xu Lin's attitude, and a strange glint appeared in his eyes as he scrutinized him.

He nodded, his imposing aura slightly subsiding.

"sit."

He raised his hand and pointed to the mahogany chair opposite him, his voice still low.

Xu Lin put down his hand, walked over calmly, pulled out a chair and sat down, showing no sign of unease throughout the entire process.

Li Huaide quickly poured hot tea for the two of them, then tactfully stepped aside, standing with his hands at his sides, even his breathing becoming soft.

Bai Shouye picked up the enamel teacup with a red five-pointed star printed on it, his knuckles appearing unusually large from years of holding a gun.

He gently blew on the steam rising from the rim of the cup, his movements unhurried and deliberate.

"I heard from Huaide that you're not even twenty yet?"

Finally, he spoke.

"Nineteen," Xu Lin replied succinctly.

"A nineteen-year-old deputy factory director, a nineteen-year-old project commander." Bai Shouye put down his teacup, the bottom of which collided with the table with a soft sound.

He looked at Xu Lin, his tone calm and even.

"Young man, you're moving quite fast."

This is not a compliment, but more like an inquiry.

Xu Lin smiled, his expression calm: "Chief Bai is joking. I was just doing what I was supposed to do in my position. As for my position, that's an arrangement and a sign of the organization's trust in me."

"An arrangement by the organization?" Bai Shouye raised an eyebrow, his eyes suddenly sharpening. "Do you think the organization would casually assign a nineteen-year-old to be in charge of such a large-scale public works project?"

This is a tricky question.

A poor answer would be seen as arrogant. A humble answer, on the other hand, would appear irresponsible.

"No." Xu Lin shook his head, meeting his gaze without backing down. "That's why I need to give it my all to live up to the organization's trust."

Bai Shouye stared at him for a full three seconds.

Suddenly, the serious lines on his face softened, and he chuckled.

"Interesting. Wilder, listen to how beautifully he speaks, so flawlessly."

Li Huaide forced a dry laugh, but cold sweat was already pouring down his back.

He knows his father-in-law too well.

This is by no means a compliment.

This is the beginning of a test, the calm before the storm.

"Xu Lin, I've heard Huai De mention your work at the steel rolling mill." Bai Shouye's fingers tapped lightly on the table, one tap after another, the rhythm steady. "Equipment upgrades, medical reforms—you were involved in every single one of them. I'm curious, how come someone like you, who studied medicine, is so knowledgeable about the ins and outs of industry?"

"I'm not good at it," Xu Lin said frankly. "I just happened to know some of the right directions, and then I found the right people to do the right things."

"Find the right person?" Bai Shouye's eyes narrowed instantly, and his fingers, which were tapping on the table, stopped.

"You mean you only provide ideas, and leave the actual work to others?"

"Yes." Xu Lin nodded without hesitation. "Everyone has their own expertise, and I'm not omnipotent. But I know that Chief Engineer Guo is the best engineer in the entire factory, and he can tackle the toughest technical challenges. I know that Director Meng is skilled in logistics management and can arrange the food, drink, and daily needs of thousands of people perfectly. I also know that Engineer Wu knows the most about those old equipment; he can tell which part is malfunctioning even with his eyes closed. What I need to do is put them in the most suitable positions and let them exert their maximum potential. Things will naturally fall into place."

Bai Shouye fell silent.

The only sound in the study was the ticking of the wall clock.

A few seconds later, he suddenly asked, "And what about you? You've arranged everything for them. What are you good at?"

This is a more fatal problem.

Xu Lin seemed to have anticipated this question, and after a moment's thought, he answered seriously:

"I'm good at seeing the essence of a problem and then finding the shortest path to solve it."

"See through the true nature?" Bai Shou-ye let out a cold laugh, leaning forward slightly, his imposing aura once again enveloping him. "Young man, your boasting is too much; it's easy to be exposed."

"I'm dissatisfied." Xu Lin shook his head, his expression unchanged. "Chief Bai, you should know better than anyone else that this centralized heating project, on the surface, is a technical issue with boilers and pipes, but in reality, it's a resource allocation issue."

"Where will the steel pipes come from? Who will build the boiler? How much manpower will be needed to lay the pipeline? Who will mobilize the residents along the route? Can I handle any of these things by myself? No, I can't. But as long as I can integrate all these resources and make each link run smoothly like a precise gear, this matter will be accomplished."

A glint flickered in the depths of Bai Shouye's eyes.

He picked up his teacup, took a sip, and used this action to conceal the turmoil in his heart.

"You make it sound so easy." He put down his teacup, his voice deepening. "Resource integration—those four words are easy to say, but incredibly difficult to do. Do you know how many departments are involved, how many vested interests are intertwined?"

"I know." Xu Lin nodded. "So I guess this is the real reason why you invited me here today, Chief Bai."

As soon as he finished speaking, Li Huaide's heart jumped into his throat!

That's too direct!

This is practically flipping the table in front of everyone!

Bai Shouye was also stunned, then he smiled.

This laugh felt much more genuine than the one before.

"You're quite direct."

"There's no need to beat around the bush when talking to a senior like Chief Bai." Xu Lin looked at him frankly. "You had Director Li bring me here today because you wanted to see for yourself whether I, a young man, am worthy of your support."

Bai Shouye leaned back in his chair and did not deny it.

He placed his hands on the table, staring at Xu Lin.

"So, do you think you deserve it?"

"worth."

Xu Lin answered without the slightest hesitation, his tone calm yet brimming with powerful confidence.

"Because what I do benefits the people in the city and the development of the whole country. Chief Bai, you are a soldier who has spent half your life on the battlefield to protect the country. You should know better than anyone what it means to 'serve the people'."

Bai Shouye's eyes suddenly sharpened!

Every word of those words struck a chord with him!

He was silent.

After a long while, he spoke again, but the topic suddenly changed.

"Do you know what Yang Anguo said to Huai De before he came to see you today?"

"At first, I just guessed the general idea based on Yang Anguo's personality." Xu Lin nodded calmly. "Later, Director Li told me Yang Anguo's specific ideas, which were similar to what I thought. It was nothing more than him controlling my steel pipe supply and using your connections in the military control office to get ahead of the so-called 'pilot projects' in other districts to claim credit."

Bai Shouye raised an eyebrow: "You guessed it beforehand?"

"It's simple." Xu Lin smiled, a sharp glint in his eyes. "I know Yang Anguo too well. He's got no way out now, a gambler who's lost everything, and he can only go all in. And Director Li has you as a powerful backer, which is the only bargaining chip he can think of to fight against me, so naturally he'll think of using it."

Bai Shouye turned his gaze to Li Huaide.

The latter had his head down, and cold sweat on his forehead had turned into beads of water that slid down his cheeks.

"Do you think Huay De will listen to him?" Bai Shou-ye asked again.

"No." Xu Lin shook his head decisively. "Because your son-in-law is much smarter than Yang Anguo. He knows how to assess the situation and won't put all his eggs in one basket that's destined to break. Especially after he learned that I had been appointed as the project's chief commander, he understood even more clearly that going against me would not end well. That's why he told you about this matter as soon as possible."

Li Huaide's body stiffened involuntarily.

Xu Lin's words completely dissected his opportunistic thoughts!

Bai Shouye laughed, this time with a hint of amusement: "You're not that old, but you've said some pretty harsh things."

"This isn't harshness, it's the truth." Xu Lin's smile vanished, replaced by an extremely serious expression. "Chief Bai, you should know that this centralized heating project is personally overseen by the top leaders. Anyone who dares to tamper with it or try to be clever is going against the top leaders. Yang Anguo dared to gamble because he had nothing. But Director Li is different; he has a bright future ahead of him and doesn't need to sink with Yang Anguo's sinking ship."

Bai Shouye fell completely silent.

Xu Lin's every word was like a precise scalpel, hitting the nail on the head.

He had Li Huaide invite Xu Lin over tonight to see just how capable and magnanimous this young man was, who could make Yang Anguo suffer and whom his shrewd son-in-law treated with such caution.

Now it seems that he is more than just capable.

That's some serious genius!

"You're right." Bai Shouye nodded slowly, acknowledging his analysis. "Huai De really shouldn't have followed Yang Anguo's reckless actions. But aren't you afraid that I might actually support other districts getting ahead of you and putting heating into place?"

"I'm not afraid." Xu Lin shook his head.

"Oh?" Bai Shouye became interested. "Tell me, why can't I do it?"

"Because you are a soldier," Xu Lin said, enunciating each word clearly. "Soldiers are all about obeying orders and following commands. You should also know that since the top leader entrusted me with the position of overall commander of this project, it means he trusts and has high expectations of me. If you were to interfere and support other districts in competing with me, to put it nicely, it would be for the country and the people; to put it bluntly, it would be considered being ambitious and eager for quick success, and it would be a blatant violation of the organization's intentions. Chief Bai, you have served in the military for many years; you must understand this principle."

Bai Shouye's gaze froze instantly.

This kid, he's gone from being clever to saying things this way.

It's a blow to the heart!

Ironically, every single word he said was correct!

"You're very smart." Bai Shouye's voice was devoid of emotion. "But smart people are often too clever for their own good."

"That's why I'm here today; I need a senior like Chief Bai to guide and mentor me," Xu Lin said humbly. "I'm young and inexperienced, so I might overlook some things. If Chief Bai is willing to help me, I assure you, this project will be a success, and a resounding success!"

Bai Shouye stared at him for a very long time.

This young man knows when to advance and retreat, and is tactful. He has the vigor of youth, as well as a composure and shrewdness far beyond his peers.

Bai Shouye's imposing manner relaxed, and after a slight smile, he asked with a playful tone, "Then tell me, how do you want me to help you?"

"It's very simple," Xu Lin said. "First, please instruct Director Li to fully cooperate with my work at the steel rolling mill to ensure that there are absolutely no problems with the supply of steel pipes. Second, if anyone else tries to cause trouble on this project, I hope Chief Bai can help me deflect pressure from other sources."

"Just these two points?" Bai Shouye raised an eyebrow, seemingly somewhat surprised.

"That's all," Xu Lin nodded. "I can handle the rest myself."

Bai Shouye fell silent.

After a long while, he suddenly smiled.

"interesting."

He stood up, walked to the window, and turned his back to Xu Lin, leaving him with a broad and dignified silhouette.

"You know, I've met quite a few young people over the years... but very few of them truly earn my respect."

Bai Shouye turned around, his gaze returning to Xu Lin's face. In those eyes that had witnessed the horrors of war, there was an unprecedented solemnity.

"You're one of them."

The moment those words landed, Li Huaide's pupils constricted sharply.

He knew his father-in-law all too well.

Bai Shouye's deepest contempt was for those incompetent, arrogant fools who climbed the ladder through connections. Even he, as his son-in-law, was frequently berated, and if it weren't for his daughter, he probably wouldn't even get a chance to see him.

But now, his father-in-law actually said something like "You're one" to a nineteen-year-old in front of him?

What does this mean?

This places Xu Lin on the same level as those true veteran revolutionaries and cadres!

Xu Lin did not show any sign of being flattered; he simply stood up and gave another standard military salute.

"Chief Bai is too kind. I just did what I was supposed to do."

Bai Shouye waved his hand, gesturing for him to sit down.

"Don't be modest. A young person with ability should have confidence." He sat back down in his chair, picked up his teacup, and took a sip. "I heard you say earlier that you plan to get the centralized heating project up and running within a month?"

"Yes." Xu Lin nodded. "District Chief Fang gave us a month. We must get the people's homes warm before winter."

"One month..." Bai Shouye frowned slightly. "The time is too tight. Just the supply of steel pipes and the blast furnace renovation work alone require coordinating several factories. Not to mention the pipeline laying and resident mobilization, none of which are small projects."

"That's why I need Chief Bai's help." Xu Lin looked at him sincerely, "As long as there are no problems with the steel pipe supply, I can handle the rest."

Bai Shouye was silent for a few seconds, then suddenly asked, "Are you that confident?"

"Yes," Xu Lin answered without hesitation, "because I know what this means for ordinary people. Central heating is not just about keeping everyone warm, but also about saving national resources. When it comes to this kind of thing, as long as the direction is right, there are always more solutions than problems."

Bai Shouye's eyes flickered.

This kid has a really big vision.

He had seen too many young cadres who, upon taking office, immediately talked about their achievements and promotions, their minds filled with nothing but their own future. But Xu Lin was different; he spoke constantly about the interests of the people and was genuinely committed to getting things done.

This kind of person deserves help.

"Alright." Bai Shouye put down his teacup, his voice steady and powerful. "Regarding the steel pipe supply, I'll have Huaide fully cooperate with you. I guarantee no one will dare to tamper with this."

A hint of joy flashed in Xu Lin's eyes, but he quickly regained his composure.

"Thank you, Chief Bai."

"Don't thank me yet." Bai Shouye changed the subject. "I have another condition."

Xu Lin's heart tightened, but he remained outwardly calm: "Please speak."

"If this project succeeds, the credit will be yours, I won't take it." Bai Shouye stared at him, "But if something goes wrong, you'll have to take responsibility yourself, don't drag Huaide down with you."

This statement, though blunt, is entirely reasonable.

Bai Shouye is willing to help, but that doesn't mean he will unconditionally jeopardize his son-in-law's future.

Xu Lin smiled.

"Chief Bai, rest assured, this project will only succeed, not fail. As for Factory Director Li..." He glanced at Li Huaide, who was standing beside him, his palms sweating with nervousness, "As long as he does as I say, not only will he be fine, but he will also benefit from it."

Bai Shouye raised an eyebrow: "Oh? Tell me about it."

"It's very simple." Xu Lin held up one finger. "The centralized heating project involves many departments and many steps. In the end, we will definitely summarize the experience and promote it throughout the city. At that time, the steel rolling mill, as the main supplier of steel pipes, will inevitably be commended. As the deputy director of the factory, Director Li, plus your influence, will definitely get the credit."

Li Huaide's breath hitched.

He was only thinking about how not to offend Xu Lin and how not to be dragged down by Yang Anguo, and he never thought of this aspect!

Bai Shouye was also stunned for a moment, then burst into laughter.

"Good lad, you're quite shrewd!" He slapped the table. "No wonder Fang Mingyuan and Gao Liang value you so much; your brain is truly exceptional."

Xu Lin didn't reply, but simply picked up his teacup and took a small sip.

After Bai Shouye finished laughing, his expression turned serious again.

"Xu Lin, I'll ask you one last question." He leaned forward, his gaze piercing. "What are your plans regarding Yang Anguo?"

That's the core issue tonight.

Xu Lin put down his teacup, looked at Bai Shouye, and slowly spoke.

"Chief Bai, how much longer do you think Yang Anguo can keep this up?"

Bai Shouye was taken aback.

Xu Lin continued, "He's already at his last gasp. He dared to sabotage a project personally approved by Minister Gao; that's suicidal. I don't need to actively deal with him. Just get the centralized heating project done, and he'll be finished."

"At that time, what will District Chief Fang think of him? What will Minister Gao think of him? What will the factory workers think of him?"

"His position is in jeopardy."

Bai Shouye gasped.

This kid not only saw through Yang Anguo's fate, but he even planned out the subsequent chain reaction!

"What about Li Huaide?" Bai Shouye asked again. "Yang Anguo has fallen, and the factory director's position is vacant. Who do you think will take it?"

Xu Lin glanced at Li Huaide and smiled.

"Chief Bai, what do you think?"

Bai Shouye fell silent.

He certainly understood what Xu Lin meant.

With Yang Anguo's downfall, the position of director of the steel rolling mill will inevitably need to be reappointed. Although Li Huaide's abilities are average, he is obedient and pragmatic, and with Yang Huaide's backing, as long as he doesn't make any major mistakes, the position is almost certainly his.

Xu Lin had clearly already factored this in.

"Good, very good." Bai Shouye stood up, walked to Xu Lin, and extended his hand. "Xu Lin, I, Bai Shouye, acknowledge this favor from you today. If you ever need any help in the future, just let me know."

Xu Lin also stood up and shook his hand.

"Thank you, Chief Bai."

Their hands were clasped tightly together, the grip firm and strong.

Li Huaide stood to the side, completely dumbfounded.

His father-in-law actually took the initiative to shake hands with Xu Lin?

What kind of treatment is this?

You should know that when he got married, Bai Shouye didn't even give him a second glance!

"Huai De, what are you standing there for?" Bai Shouye released his grip and turned to look at Li Huaide. "It's getting late, why don't you hurry up and take Director Xu home?"

"Oh, oh!" Li Huaide nodded quickly. "Director Xu, this way please."

Xu Linchong and Bai Shouye nodded, then turned and walked towards the door.

Bai Shouye sat in his chair for a moment, then got up and left the study, following behind Xu Lin and Li Huaide, escorting them all the way downstairs.

Night had fallen, and the streetlights in the courtyard cast a dim, yellowish glow.

Xu Lin walked to the car and glanced back at Bai Shouye, who was standing on the steps.

"Chief Bai, please wait a moment."

Bai Shouye waved his hand: "Go ahead, be careful on the road."

Xu Lin opened the car door and got in.

The car slowly started, drove out of the compound, and disappeared into the night.

Bai Shouye stood on the steps, watching the taillights of the car disappear into the distance, remaining motionless for a long time.

Li Huaide stood behind him, not daring to breathe.

After a long while, Bai Shouye turned around and looked at Li Huaide with a complicated expression.

"Hui De, do you know why I personally escorted him out?"

Li Huaide shook his head.

"Comparisons are odious, and comparisons are odious," Bai Shouye sighed. "This kid is something else. At nineteen, he already has this mindset and this vision; his future achievements are limitless. Compared to him..."

He paused, then didn't continue.

But Li Huaide had already understood.

He and Xu Lin are not even on the same level.

"Dad, I understand." Li Huaide lowered his head, his voice slightly hoarse.

"Good to know." Bai Shouye patted his shoulder. "At the factory, cooperate well with Xu Lin's work. As far away from Yang Anguo as possible, remember, following the right person is more important than anything else. Don't even think about competing with him. You're not on the same level as him at all. You're always thinking about what will happen after it's done, while he's thinking about how to do it. He's just a 19-year-old who dares to risk his entire future by going head-to-head with someone. Let alone you, even if it were me, he'd dare to go toe-to-toe with me."

"Yes."

After saying that, he stepped into the house.

Li Huaide stood there, his back soaked with cold sweat.

He looked up at the dark night sky, his mind filled with the scenes from the study just now.

Xu Lin's calm eyes seemed to see through everything.

He suddenly realized something.

I'm afraid I'll live in Xu Lin's shadow for the rest of my life.