A man in Handong: living off Zhong Xiaoai

"Hey, County Chief Chen, don't get me wrong, this isn't some fancy dinner party. It's just a casual get-together, a bit of fun. We're not having it at a restaurant, we're going to my place! I'll cook for you both myself, show off a few of my best dishes. We're just friends, catching up, nothing more. If you don't come, you're really disrespecting me, and I won't feel good about that. As for the liquor, I've got it all ready—the big green bottles from the corner store, the real deal! And the dishes are all homemade, clean and hygienic. You'd better give me the honor of coming!"

Since Wang Dalu had said so, Li Dakang thought, "Sure, I can go. The most important thing is to get to know Yi Xuexi, the county party secretary. Otherwise, how can I carry out my work in Jinshan County in the future?"

Li Dakang looked at Chen Hai, who still had a long face, and said with a smile.

"Hehehe, Comrade Chen Hai, I know you've always been strict with yourself, which is good and commendable. However, we need to relax occasionally; we can't always be so tense. How about this, Dalu, I have a suggestion: everyone who eats at your house should bring their own groceries, and you can cook a few good dishes at the end. Chen Hai, this way, everyone pays for their own meals, has fun, doesn't violate any rules, and it's a good opportunity to strengthen our relationship. What do you think? How about we do it?"

Chapter 510 Secretary Yi, please give me some face!

Hearing Li Dakang's words, Chen Hai couldn't help but sigh. He simply didn't want to develop a closer relationship with Wang Dalu. Even his brother-in-law, the governor of Handong Province, had said that he shouldn't get too close to him; this man had problems. Could his brother-in-law really lie to him?

However, since Li Dakang had already put it that way, he couldn't not go. If he didn't go, how would they ever see each other again?

"Hey, County Magistrate, since you're so enthusiastic and thoughtful, well then, I'll gladly accept. But we need to prioritize etiquette. This gathering is purely for friends, don't make it too formal. Once you've set a time, remember to let me know in advance so I can make arrangements. Also, you need to give me your address, otherwise it'll be awkward if I buy the groceries and can't find the place. Just this '680' (referring to a simple meal plan), I'll buy some groceries and come over. We can have a simple, happy meal, chat about work and life, it'll be great!"

With that, Chen Hai walked away without paying any attention to Li Dakang and Wang Dalu's expressions.

Li Dakang was a little embarrassed at this point, but fortunately Chen Hai finally agreed.

Wang Dalu was somewhat embarrassed by the situation, but he had achieved his goal: he had invited Chen Hai, the man of Qi Tongwei, the governor of Handong Province.

"Hey, County Chief Dakang! Alright, I'll get to it right away and make sure it's all done perfectly for you. Once everything's arranged, I'll give you a specific date. County Chief Dakang, you absolutely must grace us with your presence then, so we can have a good get-together and have some fun! Don't worry, I'll make sure this is handled beautifully and to your satisfaction!"

Upon hearing this, Li Dakang figured that all that was left was for Wang Dalu to invite Yi Xuexi, the Party Secretary of Jinshan County.

As for his so-called junior schoolmate Ouyang Jing, he really had no interest in her.

"Alright! Dalu, you can rest assured and handle this matter. Be sure to pass on a message to Secretary Yi for me, saying that I also want to meet with him, have a meal, and have a good discussion about the future of Jinshan County. Our new leadership team needs to work together to make things in Jinshan County a success, so that everyone can see our efforts and achievements. Just tell Secretary Yi that, and I believe he will understand. We'll be waiting for your good news!"

In the office of Yi Xuexi, the county party secretary of Jinshan County, Lüzhou City, Handong Province.

Yi Xuexi was carefully studying the map of Jinshan County when there was a knock on the office door.

"Who is it? Please come in! The door isn't closed properly!"

Upon hearing Yi Xuexi's voice, Wang Dalu walked in with a smile.

"Oh my! Secretary Yi, you're really busy every day! Studying maps so late at night? I admire your dedication to work so much! With you in charge, I feel at ease about the future of Jinshan County! You must also take care to rest and not overwork yourself. We still have to work together to contribute to the development of Jinshan County!"

Yi Xuexi smiled when he saw Wang Dalu. In fact, Yi Xuexi and Wang Dalu have a pretty good relationship.

Yi Xuexi is certainly aware that Wang Dalu loves making friends, but at the same time, it is precisely because Wang Dalu loves making friends that he is very loyal.

"Dalu, what brings you here? You didn't even tell me beforehand, I wasn't prepared at all. Come on, sit down! Don't stand, let's chat. Is there something you need? Or do you just want to chat with me? If it's the latter, I can talk to you about the development of Jinshan County, haha!"

Wang Dalu was genuinely impressed by Yi Xuexi's enthusiasm for his work.

As he spoke, Wang Dalu sat down with a smile.

Yi Xuexi also left the map and sat back down at his desk.

Upon seeing this, Wang Dalu quickly spoke up.

"Secretary Yi, I need to report something to you right away. Our county is quite lively today! Those two high-ranking officials we've been hearing about have actually arrived! One is the newly appointed County Head, Li Dakang—you know, his name is very well-known in the circles; the other is the Deputy County Head in charge of police affairs and Director of the County Police Bureau, Chen Hai, who also has a strong background and outstanding abilities. With their arrival, Jinshan County is sure to see a fresh start. We must treat them well, cooperate actively, and work together to take our county's work to a new level!"

Upon hearing Wang Dalu's words, Yi Xuexi's expression suddenly turned sour...

“Hey, Mainland, why are you talking to me about these big shots and small fry? I’m not interested in these so-called big shots. How capable can they be? Do they have connections to the heavens? We who do the work still need to be down-to-earth and take it one step at a time. I only care about whether the work in Jinshan County can be done well and whether everyone’s life can be better. These parachuted-in cadres are here, but we need to see what they can actually do and whether they can bring benefits to the people of Jinshan County. I don’t care about anything else.”

Upon hearing this, Wang Dalu realized that Yi Xuexi was as stubborn as ever.

Doing work is important, but you can't just do work all the time!

Otherwise, if the higher-ups can't see you, how will they know you've done your job?

"Secretary Yi, listen to me, these two people are truly different from others! Do you know County Head Li Dakang? He used to be the secretary to the Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee of Handong Province. His knowledge and abilities are definitely beyond the reach of ordinary people. And that Deputy County Head Chen Hai, I heard it clearly at the meeting just now, he was personally selected and sent by Qi Tongwei, the Governor of Handong Province! We can't underestimate them with their background and connections. We must cooperate well with them and work together to make things in Jinshan County a resounding success!"

Yi Xuexi's expression grew increasingly stiff, and his complexion became increasingly unpleasant.

"Cooperation? The mainland, how can you expect me to cooperate with them?"

Seeing this situation, Wang Dalu decided to stop hiding his true intentions and spoke directly.

"Secretary Yi, after the meeting just ended, I was thinking of getting closer to the newly appointed County Head Li Dakang and Deputy County Head Chen Haila, so I invited them to my house for a chat, and they both readily agreed. I thought this was a good opportunity for us leaders to communicate more and get to know each other better. Secretary Yi, County Head Li Dakang specifically asked me to tell you that he hopes you can do me the honor of coming over. You see, you're giving me face by doing us a favor. Let's sit down together, talk about work, and also about life, what do you say?"

Chapter 511 What changes have occurred here?

Yi Xuexi's expression didn't look particularly good after hearing Wang Dalu's words.

Yi Xuexi thinks there's nothing wrong with Wang Dalu liking to make friends, but you can't lump everything together with forming cliques and making friends.

The issues in Jinshan County are work-related matters. Why engage in such private gatherings involving eating and drinking?

Yi Xuexi hates this kind of behavior and doesn't like this kind of behavior.

“Dalu, tell Comrade Li Dakang that I’m incredibly busy here, as you’ve seen with your own eyes. I’m holed up in this office every day, working non-stop until the wee hours of the morning. There’s no time for meals or drinks. The work in Jinshan County is done meticulously and practically, not through wining and dining or personal connections! We have to live up to the responsibilities we bear and the trust everyone has placed in us, right?”

Upon hearing this, Wang Dalu realized he didn't want to go to the Yi Xue 26 course; Chen Hai had been difficult enough before.

Now that we've finally managed to get Chen Hai to go, it would be really embarrassing if Yi Xuexi didn't show up in the end.

Wang Dalu knew that although he mainly wanted to invite Chen Hai this time, Li Dakang was the county magistrate of Jinshan County, his superior. He had already promised Li Dakang, and if he failed to get rid of Yi Xuexi, the county party secretary of Jinshan County, it would be very embarrassing.

How am I supposed to get along with Li Dakang after this? How could he possibly believe what I say in front of him?

“Secretary Yi, you really have to come this time. I organized this dinner. County Chief Dakang and Deputy County Chief Chen Hai were initially reluctant to come, but I had to talk my head off and persuade them to come. We agreed that everyone would bring some food, so this meal is a crowdfunding effort, and no one owes anyone anything. I'll be in charge of cooking, and we can all get together and have a hot meal in my little apartment.”

"Secretary Yi, let me tell you, I've been bragging about this everywhere, saying we're really close, and that I even managed to get someone as busy as you to come. If you don't go, how am I supposed to face people in our circle? Please, just do me a favor, okay?"

Yi Xuexi listened to Wang Dalu's words, then lowered his head, looking very unhappy.

However, Wang Dalu did have a good relationship with me, and he had always been very loyal to me.

Whenever something happens at home, Wang Dalu always runs around helping out.

“Mainland, I’m not trying to criticize you, but the way you handled this really makes me unhappy. Tell me, why didn’t you consult me ​​beforehand about such a big matter? You know me, I hate all this wining and dining and backroom deals. Your actions have really upset me, and I feel uneasy. From now on, we need to follow the proper procedures. If there’s anything, we should put it on the table first and discuss it together. That’s the best way!”

Wang Dalu understands Yi Xuexi, so his words indicate that he is less resistant. Therefore, Wang Dalu is ready to strike while the iron is hot and have a proper talk with Yi Xuexi.

"Secretary Yi, let me explain. I noticed that County Head Dakang and Deputy County Head Chen Hai have recently joined our team, and I thought we could all work together as a cohesive unit to get the job done. That's why I thought we should have a meal together, build rapport, and make things go more smoothly in the future. My heart is set on the development of Jinshan County, and on everyone working together to get things done well! Don't you agree?"

At this point, Wang Dalu paused, noticing that Yi Xuexi's expression had softened, and then continued.

"Secretary Yi, how about this? It'll be at my little place. If you agree, I'll set a time right away. I'll invite County Head Dakang and Deputy County Head Chen Hai over, and we can have a simple chat about work and exchange ideas. I'll cook a few simple dishes myself, just something casual and fun, something to keep things warm. What do you think? Would you do me the honor?"

Yi Xuexi took a deep breath; he felt somewhat helpless at that moment.

However, since Wang Dalu had already said so much, there was nothing more he could say.

Although Yi Xuexi is a person who only loves his work, it doesn't mean he's devoid of human relationships. He's also a human being with flesh and blood, and he needs friends too.

“Mainland, let it go this time, but don’t let it happen again. We’re going to dinner to discuss work, to jointly explore the future development path of Jinshan County, not to curry favor with anyone, much less to get close to Zhao Lichun, the Party Secretary of Handong Province, or Qi Tongwei, the Governor of Handong Province, who are behind Li Dakang and Chen Hai. You need to be clear about this! We’re doing practical work, relying on ability and performance, not those shady connections!”

Upon hearing this, Wang Dalu admired Yi Xuexi, recognizing that he genuinely loved his work and didn't engage in any superficial practices.

However, Wang Dalu felt that this learning method was too rigid. Work was necessary, but interpersonal relationships couldn't be ignored either.

"Secretary Yi, then it's settled then! I've set the time for 680, and I'll let you know right away. We'll get together then and have a great time!"

In Hong Kong, at the villa where Mary and Chen Yongren lived together.

Liu Jianming was looking around when he noticed that Han Chen and Mary's photo was gone.

What's going on? Liu Jianming was very curious. Had Mary and Han Chen already divorced?

I've always liked Mary, so if this is true, that would be wonderful.

Mary smiled as she watched Liu Jianming looking around.

"Jianming, it's been a long time! How have you been doing at the police academy? Don't put too much pressure on yourself, take good care of yourself, okay?"

Hearing Mary's concern for him, Liu Jianming couldn't help but feel a warmth in his heart.

He smiled and nodded at Mary.

"Sister Mary, I'm doing great here, everything is going smoothly, thank you for your concern!"

At this point, Liu Jianming looked around and then asked with a curious expression.

"Sister Mary, I remember there used to be a lot of photos of you and Brother Chen hanging in this room, but they've all disappeared now? Has something happened?"

Chapter 512 I definitely didn't choose the wrong person

After asking the question, Liu Jianming looked at Mary with an extremely eager gaze.

He was eagerly anticipating hearing from Mary the news of her breakup with Han Chen.

After hearing Liu Jianming's words, Mary looked at the surroundings and recalled the time she and Han Chen used to live here.

However, Mary is not one to dwell on the past; all her thoughts are now focused on how to move forward together with Chen Yongren.

Sigh, Ah Chen, we're on completely different paths now, it's been a long, long time. These days, relationships are unpredictable, aren't they? Anyway, we're all going our separate ways, living our own lives, that's just how it is.

Upon hearing Mary's words, Liu Jianming's eyes lit up, and a smile of joy appeared on his lips.

Mary was a very observant woman, and she immediately noticed Liu Jianming's change.

Sigh, I know you're feeling a bit wronged. Back in the day, you were with me, and things were pretty good, weren't they? But then, Ah Chen sent you to the police station to go undercover. It really put you in a difficult position. But then again, don't take it to heart, and don't blame Ah Chen. In our line of work, it's all about loyalty. For the sake of the gang, sometimes someone has to sacrifice something, right? Just think of it as a learning experience; you'll definitely reap the rewards in the future.

Liu Jianming's current focus is not on whether Han Chen's faction will send him as an undercover agent, but on the fact that Mary is now single.

Mary and Han Chen have been separated for a long time, and she's probably adjusted her mood by now. But suddenly she wants to see me again.

Could it be that Mary has realized her own feelings and is preparing to reciprocate them?

Sister Mary, please don't say that. I understand Brother Chen's decision, and I've never blamed him. From the moment I followed you and stepped into the Ni family's door, my life was no longer my own; it belonged to the gang! Serving the gang is my duty, Liu Jianming, and no matter how treacherous the road ahead, I will never flinch!

Mary smiled slightly upon hearing this, then took out a cigarette, lit it, and glanced at Liu Jianming.

Hey Jianming, I remember when you followed me, you swore you'd do anything for me, even die. Hearing that warmed my heart. Tell me, were you sincere? Even though I'm in this business, I've heard plenty of sweet talk, but that one sentence from you is the one I remember most vividly. No matter what happens now, I appreciate your feelings back then, and I'll always remember them.

Upon hearing that, Liu Jianming was overjoyed and became excited in an instant.

Isn't Mary's words obvious? Doesn't it mean she's always kept her vow in mind?

I've secretly liked Mary for so long, could it be that I've finally moved the heavens and made Mary sense it?

Mary, my heart is as clear as day! For you, I would do anything, even face death, without batting an eye! Let alone die, as long as it's for you and for our community, I, Liu Jianming, would have no hesitation and would go through fire and water without fear!

Mary smiled after hearing Liu Jianming's words.

She knew that Liu Jianming had feelings for her; otherwise, she wouldn't have entrusted such a big task as killing Ni Kun to Liu Jianming, the man who helped her.

Mary chose Lau Kin-ming because she valued his high expectations of her, and these expectations would motivate him to do anything for her.

Hey Jianming, look at you, always talking about death. I don't believe in that. Living well is more important than anything else. But right now, there's a really big problem, a really tricky one, and we need your help. This is crucial for the club and for me. I know you're capable and meticulous, so I trust you. Just do your job well, for the club's sake and for mine, okay?

As she spoke, Mary handed all the information about Ni Kun that Chen Yongren had brought back from Huang Zhicheng to Liu Jianming.