Courtyard House: The Fisherman Never Goes Sick

"Bang bang!!"

As soon as he finished speaking, Xu Damao knelt down on the ground and kowtowed repeatedly to Yang Wei.

Seeing the fear and regret in Xu Damao's eyes, a glint of satisfaction flashed in Yang Wei's eyes. But in an instant, he deliberately put on a panicked expression.

"Oh dear, what are you doing? I'm genuinely grateful for your supervision," Yang Wei said sincerely. "How could I possibly retaliate against you? You're overthinking it."

"Besides, we're neighbors in the same courtyard. As the saying goes, a close neighbor is worse than a distant relative. Our two families live so close together, how could I possibly complain about you? Get up quickly, you're such a grown man, aren't you afraid people will laugh at you?"

"A man's knees are worth their weight in gold; he only kneels to heaven, earth, and his parents. How dare you kneel before me!"

As he spoke, Yang Wei stepped forward and reached out to help Xu Damao. In a moment when no one was paying attention, he flicked Xu Damao's right leg with his finger.

However, Xu Damao was already overwhelmed by fear and didn't feel anything unusual in his leg. Seeing his anxious, lost-dog expression, Yang Wei helped him up and put him back in his seat.

A college-wide meeting went through many twists and turns, leaving everyone confused as to what Yang Wei was trying to achieve.

Upon witnessing this scene, Liu Haizhong and the other two elderly men were also baffled. They exchanged glances, their eyes questioning, before finally shaking their heads helplessly, indicating they completely couldn't understand it.

"Alright, that's all for today. Everyone can leave now!"

Yang Wei looked around, then looked down at Xu Damao and said gently, "Comrade Xu Damao, come, I'll personally escort you back!"

Yang Wei helped Xu Damao up, a gentle smile on his face. To an outsider, their interaction would have made them seem like long-lost friends. But only the two of them knew the truth.

Seeing Yang Wei beside him, supporting him as they walked towards the backyard, Xu Damao's eyes showed a pitiful expression as he looked at Yang Wei and pleaded, "Director Yang, I'm so sorry, I know I was wrong. Please forgive me, just let me go!"

"Please, I beg you, spare me this once!"

As he spoke, Xu Damao's tears began to fall in a steady stream.

Xu Damao was truly terrified. The more he recalled what Yang Wei had said to him and the look in Yang Wei's eyes, the more his legs trembled and went weak.

Especially last night, he had a nightmare. In the dream, he clearly remembered Yang Wei chasing him in the courtyard with a large cleaver, saying he was going to cut off one of his legs.

Finally, he ran and ran, but Yang Wei still caught him. Yang Wei's face contorted in a ferocious expression, and his large cleaver mercilessly slashed down on his thigh.

A sharp pain jolted him awake. Once awake, he realized he was soaked in sweat.

The nightmare was so vivid that even now, when I think back on it, it remains clear in my mind and feels terrifyingly real.

This is the effect of killing intent; when directed at one person, it can create psychological intimidation. For someone with strong mental fortitude, it's not a problem. But for someone like Xu Damao, claiming exceptional mental fortitude is utter nonsense.

Therefore, it would be difficult for someone who was provoked by Yang Wei's murderous intent not to have nightmares!

This led to the situation we see today. He was overwhelmed by Yang Wei's unusual actions and couldn't handle the pressure, causing him to break down.

"Oh, you're really overthinking it. I mean it." Yang Wei patted him on the shoulder and said earnestly, "Go back now, okay?"

After saying that, he took Xu Damao home without further ado. Then, he and Lou Xiao'e returned to their bedroom.

That night, everyone talked about only one thing: Yang Wei and Xu Damao's affair. Lou Xiao'e, back in her bedroom, also began pressing Yang Wei for details about what he was trying to do!

As Yang Wei and Lou Xiao'e entered the house, before Yang Wei could speak, Lou Xiao'e immediately grabbed his hand.

"Honey, tell me the truth, what were you thinking today? I'm telling you, don't lie to me, or I'll get angry!"

Lou Xiao'e looked into Yang Wei's eyes, which were filled with worry and fear. She knew how much Yang Wei cared for her; Xu Damao's push, though not causing serious injury, had already made Yang Wei hate Xu Damao to the core. She was absolutely certain that Yang Wei wouldn't let Xu Damao off easily.

However, her actions at the conference tonight not only failed to vent her anger, but instead filled her with apprehension. She still clearly remembered Yang Wei's crazed and furious gaze. At that moment, she believed that Yang Wei truly wanted to kill Xu Damao.

"Don't worry, I really won't do anything to him. Besides, if something really happens to me, what will you and Grandma do? How will I explain it to Mom and Dad? They raised you with such care and hardship, and now they're handing you over to me. If something happens to me, wouldn't I be letting them down? So, no matter what, I won't let anything happen to myself, and I certainly won't do anything outrageous."

Yang Wei smiled as he looked at the woman in front of him, whose eyes were full of worry. This was someone he cared about, someone he wouldn't even dare to say a harsh word to. How dare that bastard Xu Damao hurt her? This was an absolutely unforgivable sin.

You can mess with me, Yang Wei, but you can't mess with my woman! She must pay the price.

Thinking back to how he had subtly helped Xu Damao up that evening, without anyone noticing, he knew the consequences would come in a few days. Although he really wanted to laugh out loud, looking at the woman in front of him whose eyes were full of love for him, Yang Wei didn't want her to worry or be afraid, so he held back.

After much persuasion, Lou Xiao'e finally believed that she really wouldn't do anything outrageous, and she was finally at ease. That night, Lou Xiao'e used all her charm to reward Yang Wei for caring about her so much.

The next day, Yang Wei got up, went to the factory, gave some instructions about the canteen, and then rode his bicycle straight to the home of the top leader.

Today happens to be Wednesday. The day before yesterday, the top leader gave Yang Wei face by personally coming to oversee things and even explaining the phonograph issue to him. This not only boosted Yang Wei's prestige but also significantly elevated his status within the factory. This kind of intangible benefit is exactly what Yang Wei likes most.

Therefore, after visiting them today, I must express my sincere gratitude. After all, they've been so kind; if I don't accept their thanks, it wouldn't be a matter of courtesy, but rather a sign of good manners.

In fact, when interacting with leaders of this level, it's crucial to strike a balance. Getting too close can easily lead to misunderstandings and make you seem like someone with ulterior motives; keeping too far away is also not good, as it can create distance between you. Therefore, finding the right balance is key.

Although Yang Wei may not have any other special skills, he has long since honed his interpersonal skills through years of hardship in society. He is quite confident in his ability to handle situations appropriately.

I rode my bicycle all the way, not in a hurry. I finished dealing with the big boss this morning, and this afternoon I'll return to the courtyard house, take Lou Xiao'e with me, and we can also take a stroll to my father-in-law's house.

At nine o'clock sharp, Yang Wei arrived at the villa. Secretary Chen greeted him. As soon as he entered, Yang Wei was about to head to the kitchen, but Secretary Chen stopped him.

"Master Yang, you'd better not go to the kitchen yet. The commander instructed you to go to his study as soon as you arrive; he has something to discuss with you."

Hearing Secretary Chen's words, Yang Wei nodded and followed him to the study. Secretary Chen went in to inform him, and then Yang Wei entered the room. He saw the big boss, Old Xu, sitting behind his desk, frowning, staring blankly at a document in front of him, lost in thought. He looked as if he had encountered some ancient mystery, extremely absorbed in his work.

"Big boss, you wanted to see me!" Yang Wei greeted as he entered the room.

Hearing his voice, Old Xu finally looked up at him, revealing a smile that was more like a grimace. "Little Yang is here, have a seat! By the way, how's the steel mill situation going?" Old Xu asked softly.

"Speaking of this matter, the reason I came today is to thank you. Without your personal intervention, I wouldn't have been able to clear my name so quickly. [The following appears to be unrelated and possibly machine-translated text: Renowned author HRCPAA's new work, *The Courtyard: The Fisherman Never Goes Short*, has joined Cola Novels! Deputy Factory Director Du has been unanimously decided by the factory leadership to be transferred from his leadership position, and replaced by He Yuzhu, the former head of the security department. As for the whistleblower, I didn't suggest any punishment. After all, this is a form of supervision from our coworkers, and I actually think it's a good thing. Only with broad channels of supervision can our leaders be more committed to upholding principles and bottom lines. Yesterday, at the company assembly, I personally thanked the whistleblower, thanking him for his supervision and reporting, which reminded me to always be strict with myself and not cross the legal red line."]

Yang Wei began to explain.

Old Xu's expression towards Yang Wei was genuine, especially his tone, which was upright and sincere, without any pretense. In that instant, his impression of Yang Wei improved even further. He hadn't expected such a young man to be not only so capable but also so magnanimous. It was truly a pity he wasn't out there!

Thinking of this, Lao Xu's previously extinguished desire stirred again, and he wanted to get Yang Wei out and have him follow behind him.

"By the way, I have a topic that's been bothering me. Now that you're here, could you share your thoughts with me?"

Yang Wei put down the documents in his hand and tapped his fingers lightly on the table, making a rhythmic sound.

"Big boss, I understand your concerns very well. The current situation is indeed like that."

Yang Wei paused for a moment, organized his thoughts, and continued:

"At this stage, the 'trade-industry-technology' approach is indeed the fastest and lowest-risk. Our country currently lacks money, technology, and equipment, but it has no shortage of labor and markets. By opening up channels through trade, earning foreign exchange, introducing production lines, solving employment issues, and boosting GDP, this combination of measures will have an immediate effect."

Old Xu exhaled a smoke ring, nodded, and his expression softened slightly: "Yes, it's effective immediately. You know the current situation; we not only need to develop, but also to survive. If we can't even feed ourselves, how can we talk about accumulating technology? You know how those research institutes next door that focus on pure technology are doing. Without a market, without capital inflow, technology is like water without a source; it can't support people at all."

"but--"

Yang Wei changed the subject, his eyes sharpening as he stared directly at Lao Xu.

"Big Boss, while the 'Trade-Industry-Technology' strategy can solve the immediate problem, it is a slow poison. Its biggest pitfall is that it easily leads to dependence, thereby causing people to lose the courage and motivation to climb the technological ladder."

"Oh? How so?" Old Xu stubbed out his cigarette and leaned forward slightly, clearly intrigued.

"It's like building a house. 'Trade' is the foundation, 'Industry' is the framework, and 'Technology' is the top-level design. If you only focus on the foundation and framework, you can indeed build a house that looks good and even sell it for a good price. But once you encounter an earthquake, a typhoon, or a skyscraper is built next door, your building will instantly become a dangerous building."

Yang Wei stood up, walked to the huge world map hanging on the wall, and pointed to several key locations with his finger.

"Look, sir, the international situation is changing rapidly. The reason why developed Western countries can sit at the table and eat meat while we can only drink soup is because of their monopoly on core technologies. If we are content with being an assembly plant or a contract manufacturer, we will only ever earn that meager hard-earned money and will always have to be mindful of others' opinions."

"If they're in a bad mood, or feel that we're threatening their position, they can easily cut off our supply chain or strangle us, and the industrial chain we've worked so hard to build will be paralyzed instantly. At that point, we won't even have anyone to complain to."

Yang Wei turned around, looking intently at Lao Xu, his tone firm:

"Therefore, I believe that 'trade, industry, and technology' can serve as a transition and a means of accumulating capital, but it must never be the end goal. We who run businesses, especially large enterprises that are crucial to the national economy and people's livelihood, must have a long-term vision. While pursuing 'trade' and 'industry,' we must elevate 'technology' to a strategic level. Even if we have to tighten our belts, we must conduct research and development and master core technologies."

"Only by mastering core technologies can we truly stand tall and remain invincible in future competition."

After listening, Old Xu remained silent for a long time. The office was so quiet that only the ticking of the clock on the wall could be heard.

After a long while, Old Xu finally let out a long sigh, looking at Yang Wei with a complicated expression: "Yang Wei, you see further than I do, and you see things more clearly than those so-called experts. You're right, we can't just focus on the present and lose sight of the long term. But, when it comes to 'skill,' it's so difficult! As difficult as ascending to heaven!"

"It's precisely because it's difficult that it's precious, and that's why it's worth fighting for." Yang Wei smiled, sat back on the sofa, and said in a more relaxed tone, "Big Boss, actually, this matter isn't so pessimistic. Our country is full of talent and has a vast market. As long as the policies are right, the funding is in place, and we have a spirit of never giving up, there's no obstacle we can't overcome."

"Take my small factory for example. In the beginning, we were dirt poor and didn't even have any decent equipment. But look at us now! Haven't we developed our own core technologies, sold our products overseas, and earned foreign exchange?"

"What does this show? It shows that we Chinese are no less intelligent or lazier than others. As long as we're on the right track, there's nothing we can't accomplish!"

Inspired by Yang Wei's lofty ambition, Old Xu smiled and said, "Excellent! 'Nothing is impossible'—that's a great saying! Hearing your words is worth more than ten years of study. It seems transferring you here was the right decision!"

As he spoke, Old Xu took out an official document from his drawer and handed it to Yang Wei: "This is a document that just came down from above, some guiding opinions on the next step of economic system reform. Take it back and take a good look at it. We'll discuss this issue specifically at our next meeting."

Yang Wei took the document but didn't open it immediately. Instead, he looked at Lao Xu and said meaningfully, "Big Boss, whether it's 'technology-industry-trade' or 'trade-industry-technology,' it's all just a means to an end. The real core lies in people, in the vision and courage of the decision-makers."

"As long as we always keep the country, the people, and the future in our hearts, no matter which path we take, we will be able to forge a bright future!"

Old Xu nodded in deep agreement, his eyes full of admiration.

……

After leaving Lao Xu's office, Yang Wei did not go straight home, but drove to the factory.

Although it was already night, the workshop was still brightly lit and the machines were humming.

Standing at the workshop entrance, watching the workers busily at work and listening to the familiar sounds of the machines, Yang Wei felt a surge of strength within him.

This is his battlefield, this is his stage.

In this era of great change, Yang Wei is determined to write his own legend with his own hands!

"Director Yang!"

A crisp sound interrupted Yang Wei's thoughts.

Yang Wei turned his head and saw a young woman in work clothes with a ponytail standing not far away, holding a notebook in her hand, looking at him with surprise.

Lin Wan'er is a key technical staff member in the factory.

"It's so late, are you still not off work?" Yang Wei asked with a smile.

"Yes, we're working on overcoming the difficulties of that new project. Everyone's working overtime." Lin Wan'er walked up to Yang Wei, scratching her head somewhat embarrassedly. "Director Yang, why haven't you gone back yet?"

"Just came to see everyone." Yang Wei patted Lin Wan'er on the shoulder and encouraged her, "You've worked hard. But take care of yourself, don't overwork yourself. Health is the foundation of everything."

"It's not hard work at all! We're happy to work under Director Yang!" Lin Wan'er's face beamed with a bright smile. "Besides, the new project is showing promise, and everyone's working hard to produce results as soon as possible, giving Director Yang a pleasant surprise!"

"Oh? Really?" Yang Wei's interest was piqued. "What surprise? Can you give us a hint?"

"That won't do!" Lin Wan'er playfully stuck out her tongue. "If I told you, it wouldn't be a surprise. Anyway, just wait for the good news!"

Watching Lin Wan'er's energetic back view, Yang Wei's lips curled up slightly.

This is youth, this is hope.

With such a lovely group of people, what great things can't we accomplish?