Siheyuan, Shazhu: I have both parents in this life

Chapter 359 August in Los Angeles
On the night before leaving, Chen Lanxiang held Gong Xue's hand, very reluctant to part: "Are you leaving already? Stay a few more days, can you ask the crew for another leave?"

Gong Xue felt a pang of sadness: "Auntie, no, the filming schedule is already set. I'll come see you and Uncle after I finish filming this movie."

"Then it's settled!" Chen Lanxiang said, then glared at He Yuxin beside her. "Third brother, you too, can't you spend more time with Xiaoxue when she goes back? Work, work, all you ever think about is work!"

He Yuxin just smiled and said, "Mother, I know."

The next day at the train station, she was again seen off by car. On the platform, Chen Lanxiang stuffed a large bag of food and supplies into Gong Xue's hands, repeatedly reminding her to be careful on the journey and to call or write when she arrived. Gong Xue agreed to everything, her heart filled with reluctance to part.

The train whistle blew long and deep. She stood by the train door, watching the He family waving goodbye on the platform, her eyes welling up with tears. He Yuxin stood beside her and gently put his arm around her shoulder.

The train slowly started moving, pulling away from the platform, the city scenery gradually receding into the distance. Gong Xue leaned against the window, still somewhat downcast. He Yuxin poured her a glass of water and sat opposite her, watching her.

After a while, he suddenly took out a brown paper document bag from his briefcase, placed it on the small table, and pushed it in front of Gong Xue.

"What is this?" Gong Xue looked up at him in confusion.

"Open it and take a look," He Yuxin said calmly.

Gong Xue unwrapped the cord and pulled out several documents. On top was a certificate from her employer and a letter of introduction, followed by some English documents, several "Marriage Registration Application Forms," ​​several notarized documents, and photocopies of both of their identification documents. All the required fields were filled out; only signatures and dates were missing. She froze, her heart inexplicably racing. She looked up at He Yuxin, her eyes filled with questioning and disbelief.

He Yuxin met her gaze, his eyes gentle yet firm: "Before my sister came back, I had her get all the paperwork done for me. This time, I'll go back to Shanghai with you, you see?"

"Who wants to be with you?" Gong Xue tossed the file bag back to He Yuxin.

"Xiaoxue, let's go back and get our marriage certificate, shall we?" He Yuxin said sincerely.

Gong Xue didn't answer. He Yuxin sighed, "Of course, if you think it's too fast, we can do it again."

"No." Gong Xue suddenly interrupted him, took a deep breath as if she had made up her mind, and refocused her gaze on He Yuxin's face. A blush gradually rose on her face, but her voice was very clear, "There's no need to wait any longer. I, I'm willing."

He Yuxin looked at her, a wide smile slowly spreading across his face. He reached out and firmly grasped her hand, which was resting on the table. The train rumbled forward, the fields stretching endlessly outside the window. Gong Xue returned He Yuxin's grip, her heart filled with a sense of peace.

A few days later, at a marriage registration office in a district of Shanghai, He Yuxin and Gong Xue, dressed in neat white shirts, sat side by side filling out forms. The staff carefully checked all the documents, especially the notarized documents from Hong Kong. He Yuxin remained composed, answering every question; Gong Xue, however, seemed slightly nervous, her pen even trembling slightly as she signed. He Yuxin noticed, gently nudging her leg under the table and giving her a reassuring look.

After all the procedures were completed, the staff smiled and handed them two bright red marriage certificates: "Congratulations to you both! We wish you a happy marriage and a long and happy life together!"

"Thank you!" they both said in unison.

Stepping out of the registration office, the sun shone brightly. Gong Xue held the marriage certificate, turning it over and over, her fingers tracing the gold-embossed words, feeling as if she were dreaming: "This... is it legal?"

"Yes, it's legal now." He Yuxin smiled and took her hand. "Mrs. He, where would you like to celebrate next?"

Gong Xue blushed, feeling a little shy about the new nickname, but secretly she felt sweet inside: "I want to go back and tell my mother first."

"it is good."

In the days that followed, calls poured into Shanghai, congratulating He Yuxin and inevitably teasing him about his swift actions. He Yuyao laughed the loudest on the other end of the line: "Third brother, you're something else! I'm engaged and haven't even made a move yet, and you've already gotten your marriage certificate? Sister-in-law, my third brother seems quiet, but he's quick on the uptake!" Gong Xue held the receiver, her face flushed, but her heart was filled with sweetness. He Yuxin took the phone, laughing and scolding: "Get lost! If you're envious, just say so. Get your own affairs done quickly, that's the important thing."

He Yuzhu's call came a little later, his tone carrying the calmness characteristic of an elder brother: "It's good that you've gotten the marriage certificate. Is Gong Xue here? Sister-in-law, we're family now. If the third brother acts up, just tell me. I'm giving you a break, go out and travel. There's something in North America that needs someone to look after, so take her with you, and you can have a honeymoon while you're at it."

After hanging up the phone, He Yuxin looked at Gong Xue: "My brother wants us to go to North America. There are jobs there, and we can also do some sightseeing." He paused and added, "Los Angeles, the Olympics are being held there this year."

Gong Xue's eyes lit up: "The Olympics?"

“Yes. The domestic delegation will be going there. We have some arrangements there that require coordination.” He Yuxin said simply, but Gong Xue could sense that this “coordination” carried considerable weight.

A few days later, the plane landed at Los Angeles International Airport. Chen Sheng personally came to pick them up, waving from afar: "Yuxin, over here!"

He Yuxin laughed and punched him lightly: "Asheng, long time no see, you've gained weight."

“Hey, the food here is high in calories, it’s hard not to gain weight.” Chen Sheng patted his belly and looked at Gong Xue. “This must be your sister-in-law, right? Finally, someone has taken care of you, you workaholic.”

Gong Xue smiled, pursing her lips. He Yuxin introduced, "Gong Xue, this is Chen Sheng, my brother's old buddy, in charge of affairs in North America."

On the way to the hotel, Chen Sheng explained the situation: "The hotel is all arranged, not far from the main venue. As instructed by the boss, two whole floors have been reserved for the delegation, and the gym and swimming pool are ready."

In the first few days, before the delegation arrived, He Yuxin took Gong Xue around to explore the area.

They went to Hollywood. Walking along the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Gong Xue curiously looked down at the star marks, searching for familiar names in front of the Chinese Theatre: "Will there be any Chinese names here?"

"Not yet, but it will definitely be available in the future." He Yuxin squeezed her hand.

Gong Xue said softly, "I really hope that one day I can leave my handprints here too."

"Why does it have to be here?" He Yuxin asked with a smile. "I would prefer you to stand at the pinnacle of Chinese-language cinema first."

"You don't object to me continuing to make movies?"

"Why object? Of course, I don't mind if you like following me around."

"No way, I don't understand your business. I still prefer performing."

"Then I wish you to win all the awards in the future. I'll make you a huge display case so that everyone can see it as soon as they walk in."

"That's too much. I only have one trophy right now," Gong Xue said with an embarrassed smile.

"There will be."

They also went to Las Vegas. The Strip was ablaze with neon lights at night, and the hotels were brightly lit. Gong Xue clung tightly to He Yuxin's arm, feeling both excited and a little lost.

"Just take a look, this isn't suitable for us." He Yuxin patted her hand. They watched a show, had a nice dinner, and then left the hustle and bustle.

He Yuxin's easy days didn't last long before she started getting busy again.

The Chinese Olympic delegation was about to arrive when he received a call from He Yuzhu, who explained the relevant matters. In fact, He Yuzhu had already made preparations, having previously coordinated through Uncle Fang. Uncle Fang was initially surprised, not expecting He Yuzhu to have such a large-scale business empire in North America.

On the eve of the delegation's arrival, He Yuxin repeatedly checked every detail of the airport transfer, accommodation, and transportation with the hotel manager. The embassy sent someone to make the initial contact, and a counselor surnamed Wang, accompanied by He Yuxin, carefully inspected the hotel rooms, restaurant, meeting rooms, and training grounds.

"Mr. He, the arrangements are too thoughtful, truly beyond my expectations," Counselor Wang praised repeatedly, then looked troubled, "However, the expenses... the delegation's budget is really limited. Our attire was sponsored by a domestic factory. Such a high standard... I'm afraid..."

He Yuxin immediately said, "Counselor Wang, rest assured, all expenses will be borne by our Yellow River Group. It's just a small token of our support for our athletes."

Consul Wang was still somewhat hesitant, so he used the hotel phone to call back to China for instructions. After a while, he hung up the phone, looking much more relaxed: "It's been agreed upon in China. Thank you very much for the generosity of the Yellow River Group! I'll leave things here to you."

At the end of July, the delegation arrived in Los Angeles. A bus took the team members directly to the hotel. Looking at the bright and spacious lobby, the team members were somewhat incredulous—they had been told before departure that the conditions would be harsh, but they hadn't expected to see such a sight. After a brief handover between the team leader and He Yuxin, the team members received their room keys.

The room was clean and comfortable, with welcome fruit and souvenirs printed with the national flag, panda, and Yellow River logo on the table. Training and competition uniforms were also provided, in red and white with a bright national flag printed on the chest; the materials and designs showed attention to detail. Many athletes simply pinned the small badges to their clothes, and the female athletes even went to exchange cute souvenirs with the male athletes.

In the days that followed, the athletes immersed themselves in intensive pre-competition training. He Yuxin arranged a fleet of vehicles to pick them up and drop them off between the hotel and the training ground every day. The training venue was well-equipped and well-equipped. The culinary team specially researched the athletes' menus to ensure both nutrition and palatability.

He Yuxin didn't bother them any further, only instructing Chen Sheng to arrange for some English-speaking Chinese employees and local overseas Chinese volunteers to be ready to provide assistance at any time, especially during competitions, to organize effective cheering squads so that the Chinese team members wouldn't feel lonely on the field. Gong Xue also quietly did what she could, helping to check the item list or offering an encouraging smile to the team members when they returned from training.

The competition day officially began, and the Olympic arena was instantly ignited by hard work and passion.

At the Prado Shooting Range, veteran Xu Haifeng, dressed in a bright red shooting uniform, stood calmly before the target. Loading the round, raising the gun, aiming, firing—every movement was as precise and steady as clockwork. After the final shot, the electronic target recorded the score, and a brief silence was followed by a deafening roar of cheers!
He achieved China's first Olympic gold medal! He Yuxin and Gong Xue stood up and applauded excitedly with all the Chinese people in the stands. Watching the composed young man with glasses go up on stage to receive the award, He Yuxin's eyes welled up with tears.

Inside the gymnastics hall, Li Ning, the "Prince of Gymnastics," captivated the world with his performance. He moved like a butterfly flitting among flowers on the floor exercise, pommel horse, and rings, his movements graceful yet powerful, landing with unwavering stability. He won three gold, two silver, and one bronze medal, becoming one of the brightest stars of that Olympics. When he stood on the highest podium, his chest adorned with gold medals, watching the rising Chinese national flag, his confident and radiant smile infected everyone. Gong Xue gripped He Yuxin's arm tightly, too excited to speak, feeling only immense pride.

The women's volleyball team's matches were even more captivating. After losing 1-3 to the United States in the group stage, the girls did not lose heart. In the final, they met again, displaying unity, teamwork, and tenacious fighting spirit. Lang Ping's powerful spikes, Zhang Rongfang's skillful shots, Yang Xilan's orchestration, and Zhou Xiaolan's tight blocking... they fought for every point and every set, ultimately defeating the host nation, the United States, in straight sets to win their first Olympic gold medal and achieve a "three-peat"! The entire stadium was ignited by the cheers of the Chinese audience. He Yuxin's cheering squad waved flags, and many elderly overseas Chinese were moved to tears. Gong Xue was also already in tears, tightly embracing He Yuxin.

On the high jump field, Zhu Jianhua faced immense pressure. Although he couldn't replicate his World Championships victory and break the world record again, he fought hard, clearing 2.31 meters to win a precious bronze medal for the Chinese team. His focused concentration before each jump and his humble greeting to the audience after clearing the bar, regardless of success or failure, left a deep impression on everyone.

In the weightlifting hall, Zeng Guoqiang, Wu Shude, Chen Weiqiang, and Yao Jingyuan each won gold medals with their powerful strides. Their thunderous shouts upon entering the arena, the explosive power as they lifted the 100-kilogram barbell overhead, the bulging veins on their necks, and the excited arm-waving after their success were all exhilarating.

Whenever a Chinese swimmer took to the field, the cheering squad arranged by He Yuxin would wave small red flags, becoming a bright and beautiful sight in the stands. After one swimming competition, He Yuxin and Gong Xue encountered swimmers coming down from their awards ceremony in the athletes' tunnel. The young athlete recognized Gong Xue, excitedly asked for an autograph, and then solemnly thanked He Yuxin: "Mr. He, thank you for your arrangements, which allowed us to concentrate on the competition." He Yuxin simply patted him on the shoulder: "It's all thanks to your own hard work."

On the way back to the hotel, the setting sun bathed Los Angeles in gold. Gong Xue looked at He Yuxin driving and suddenly said, "This trip has helped me understand you better."

He Yuxin turned and glanced at her: "Really?"

"Yeah, I used to think you were just a businessman. But now I realize you have something much bigger in your heart."

He Yuxin smiled and said, "Actually, I'm just an executor. This trip was arranged by my older brother. Just don't complain that our honeymoon is too short."

"How could that be? This honeymoon was so meaningful, really!"

"I'm glad you like it; I also think it's very meaningful!"

"When you see your elder brother again, you must express your gratitude properly!" Gong Xue said.

"Then you'll put me in a difficult position. I'm afraid I can only express my gratitude verbally. The main team still needs you!"

"How can I possibly thank you!" Gong Xue whispered.

"The thought is what counts!" He Yuxin said with a smile.

On the closing day of the Olympics, the Chinese delegation achieved a historic victory. At the celebration banquet, the team leader, on behalf of all the team members, toasted He Yuxin, even changing how he addressed her: "Xiao He, we really owe you all a lot this time. We'll definitely review our performance carefully when we get back, and we'll be back in four years!"

He Yuxin raised his glass: "There will definitely be more Chinese athletes standing on the highest podium."

After the banquet, He Yuxin and Gong Xue returned to their room, and Gong Xue suddenly hugged He Yuxin from behind.

"What's wrong?" He Yuxin turned around and hugged her.

“I’m thinking, when we have a child, we must bring him to see the Olympics,” Gong Xue said softly. “We also want to tell him that his father once worked hard for the honor of our country.” He Yuxin gently kissed her forehead: “Okay, definitely.”

It is worth mentioning that although it was not possible to watch all the events in China in real time during the Olympics, the public's enthusiasm remained high through news briefings and live recordings.

In company meeting rooms, factory canteens, and even in some people's courtyards, as long as there is a television, there will always be a group of people gathered around it.

On the black-and-white or color screen, images from across the ocean jump around.

Xu Haifeng's steady aim as he raised his gun, the brief silence after pulling the trigger, and the subsequent cheers; Li Ning's fluid movements on the pommel horse and rings, and the moment he landed firmly; the scenes of the women's volleyball team leaping up to spike and hugging each other in celebration after a successful block—every scene held the onlookers' breath in their eyes, before erupting into enthusiastic applause and cheers.

Whenever Chinese athletes stand on the podium, the five-star red flag is raised, and the national anthem is played, people sitting around the television always stand up in unison, their expressions solemn.

In the alleys and lanes, the occasional sound of firecrackers could be heard, as people spontaneously celebrated their victory.

The television broadcast inevitably captured the exterior of the hotel where the Chinese delegation was staying, with the prominent "Grand Hyatt" logo occasionally appearing in the background.

The athletes wore red and white training and competition uniforms with a bright national flag on their chests and small "Yellow River" lettering and logo embroidered on the hems.

When the camera zooms in to capture a close-up of the athlete, the logo, though understated, is clearly visible.

During the exciting commentary on the competition, the commentator would sometimes add a few words: "We have seen that the Chinese delegation has received strong support from all sectors of society, especially national enterprises like the Yellow River Group, for this overseas expedition. From itinerary and accommodation to equipment support, they have provided excellent conditions for our athletes, allowing them to fight with all their might without any worries."

These images and words traveled through the airwaves to every household. People remembered the athletes' hard work and glory, and in doing so, they also promoted the Yellow River as a symbol of national pride, and the brands "Junyue" (君悦) as well as Jianlibao (健力宝) and Meihua (梅花) clothing nationwide.

No one thought it was an advertisement; they just thought it was how our company should be at that time and place.

He Yuzhu sat on the sofa at home, watching the images flashing on the TV screen and listening to the commentator's words, a faint smile appearing on his lips.

This is the effect he wanted, and he has achieved it, although the price he paid was much higher than that of other factories.

This will greatly benefit the business operations of Yellow River's domestic companies. Many factories, mines, and other enterprises will no longer need to search for these companies; they will automatically come to us.

He Yuxin gave a work report to He Yuzhu, and then took Gong Xue to several places in North America before flying back to Hong Kong. Gong Xue wanted to meet her older brother and sister-in-law, whom she had never met before.

Flights returning to Hong Kong from North America landed smoothly.

The more than twenty-hour flight was exhausting, but Gong Xue leaned against the porthole, looking at the gradually clearer outline of the city below, and her mood was still somewhat cheerful.

He Yuxin didn't rest on the plane either, constantly summarizing what he had learned from this Olympics. He had also learned some information from Xu Damao.

"Are you tired?" Gong Xue asked softly.

"It's alright." He smiled. "My brother sent a car to pick us up, so we're going home."

"it is good."

As the vehicle traveled through the streets of Hong Kong, Gong Xue gazed out the window at the cityscape, which was so different from that of the mainland, that she was somewhat lost in thought.

He Yuxin gave a brief introduction to some places along the way, and they stopped at a house halfway up the mountain.

The staff helped carry the luggage into the house, and He Yuxin said to Gong Xue, "Rest for a while. My eldest brother, sister-in-law, fourth brother, and fourth sister-in-law will be back tonight."

In the evening, He Yuzhu and Xiaoman were the first to return.

Gong Xue was a little nervous when she met this man she had only heard of before.

He Yuzhu was dressed in a simple shirt and trousers, her expression calm and composed. Her gaze swept over him with a subtle scrutiny. Xiaoman stood beside her, dressed elegantly, with a gentle smile on her face.

"Big brother, sister-in-law," He Yuxin greeted them hurriedly.

"You're back." He Yuzhu nodded, then turned to Gong Xue. "This must be your wife, right? Hello!"

"Hello, elder brother. Hello, elder sister-in-law." Gong Xue bowed slightly.

"We're all family, no need to be so polite." Xiaoman stepped forward and gently took Gong Xue's hand. "You must have had a long journey. How was your trip?"

"pretty good!"

After chatting for a while, He Yuyao and Cherie Chung returned.

The two brothers hugged each other upon meeting, and then started playfully punching each other.

"Third Brother is indeed Third Brother, he's still faster than me."

"Haha, that's right, what can I do, I'm the older brother!"

"You were only a few minutes ahead of me."

"Then I'm an older brother too!"

After another round of introductions, dinner was served shortly afterward. None of the younger members of the He family had returned yet, so it was just the six of them, and the atmosphere was very harmonious.

Gong Xue and Zhong Chuhong only felt the affection of an elder brother from He Yuzhu, without much pressure, so they relaxed a bit.

After dinner, the living room lights were on.

The women sat on the sofa, and Xiaoman brought over a pot of hot tea and poured a cup for each of them.

Women's topics naturally revolve around clothes, jewelry, and so on. Of course, Gong Xue and Cherie Chung are both actresses, so these topics are naturally a topic of conversation for them as well.

Chung Chor-hung was very envious of Gong Xue's trip to North America, and Xiao Man suggested that He Yuyao take her there during her vacation.

On the other side, He Yuzhu led his two younger brothers into the study.

He looked at He Yuxin and said, "It's time to expand our domestic business. The impact of the Olympics will be significant, so you and Da Mao need to make more preparations."

"Brother, Brother Mao has already called me. A lot of people are asking about the Yellow River Group, and some have already come to our door."

"Yes, we should focus on downstream manufacturers of aircraft and automobiles to see if there are any opportunities for cooperation."

"Will we be making spare parts in the future?"

"Not entirely. We'll see what happens then and see what you can actually negotiate."

"it is good."

He Yuzhu then looked at He Yuyao: "Yuyao, when will you be promoted to superintendent?"

He Yuyao leaned against the desk and smiled: "I still need to work my way up; I'm far from qualified."

He Yuzhu glanced at him and said calmly, "Well, it's up to you. You have a better chance while Orian and Aunt Ping are in power. They can recommend you. Don't wait until they retire."

“I know, brother, it’s not easy to make a name for yourself. Every department and police station in the force is keeping a close eye on the case.”

"I'm just reminding you not to be so careless."

"I don't have any."

"By the way, have you and Xiao Zhong decided on a wedding date yet?"

“I’m planning to go on New Year’s Day. I wonder if you can bring your parents back?” He Yuxin said.

"Go ask them yourself. If they want it back, I'll take it. Don't make me ask them about everything."

"Your words carry more weight than ours."

“This is your own life-changing event. If you don’t ask yourself, aren’t you just waiting to be scolded?” He Yuzhu said.

"By the way, brother, will I be holding my wedding banquet here?" He Yuxin asked.

"Look for yourself, I think you should still set up a few tables. Aren't you going to invite those business associates and Ah Lang and the others to your wedding?"

"We still have you for business, so we must treat Brother Lang and the others!"

"That's it, you decide the date yourself."

“Okay, I’m taking Gong Xue here for a few days, so we can have a banquet then,” He Yuxin said.

What are your thoughts on Gong Xue's future development?

"It's up to her. Of course, if she wants to try her luck in Hong Kong, I'll support her. You'll help, right, brother?"

"What can I do to help? We don't have our own company yet, and we have to wait to film anything."

"Then let's wait and see. She's doing alright in the country."

"You two discuss it yourselves. Did you do what I asked you to do: find someone to collect stories and information?"

"I've done it. I'll bring it back to you once it's all sorted out over there."

"Row."

(End of this chapter)