In the fiery red era of the heavens, refrigerators are refreshed daily.

Chapter 128, Section 127: Argue with reason and evidence, make concessions, and get a bicycle ticket!
Just a second before Director Tian cleared his throat and was about to officially announce the compensation plan, Yang Guangming calmly took a small step forward and stood in a position that was slightly forward and could be noticed by everyone.

His voice wasn't loud, but it carried a composure, orderliness, and undeniable weight rarely seen in young people. It rang out clearly, interrupting Director Tian's impending words:

"Director Tian, ​​may I trouble you for a minute?"

His tone was respectful and polite, but the act of interrupting itself carried a sense of challenge that could not be ignored.

Director Tian was interrupted, his brows furrowing instinctively, and his sharp gaze instantly locked onto Yang Guangming like a hawk.

She had done thorough research on this young man before she came—he was the full-time secretary of Zhao Guodong, the deputy director of the Hongxing State-owned Cotton Mill; he was somewhat educated and quick-witted.

Sure enough, he's no pushover; he dares to step forward even at a time like this.

Yang Guangming met Director Tian's scrutinizing, slightly displeased gaze with composure and sincerity, speaking earnestly and solemnly as if reporting to a superior:

"First of all, I would like to make a statement on behalf of the four households in the Shikumen."

His gaze swept over his mother Zhang Xiuying, Granny Chen, Mrs. Feng, and others. They nodded or straightened their backs subconsciously, as if they had found their pillar of support.

"After listening to Director Tian's speech, we have come to a deep understanding of the importance and urgency of this renovation work."

Although each family does have its own difficulties, for example, Grandma Chen's family has a large number of people but little space, Teacher Feng's second son has no place to live, Sister-in-law Zhao is worried about losing her source of income, and our family... also has its own difficulties.

But when it comes to matters of principle, everyone understands the situation and is willing to support Director Tian's work and cooperate with the subdistrict office to complete the tasks assigned by the district!

Please rest assured about this!

This statement not only affirmed Director Tian's authority and the legitimacy of his work, but also pointed out that the difficulties faced by each family were objective realities and not unreasonable, and it also brought the four families together again under the banner of "cooperating with the work," thus occupying the moral high ground.

Director Tian's tense expression eased slightly, and he nodded slightly, acknowledging the statement: "Yes, it's good that you have this awareness."

His tone was a bit gentler than before.

Seizing this fleeting respite, Yang Guangming abruptly changed the subject, his tone becoming more serious, even carrying a hint of discussing the details of policy implementation and identifying any oversights for the leadership:
"Secondly, Director Tian, ​​there is a special situation that I feel is necessary to report to you."

To avoid unnecessary mistakes at work that could damage the organization's reputation, which would be more difficult to rectify later.

He emphasized the phrase "organizational prestige," as if he were considering the issue entirely from the perspective of the subdistrict office.

Director Tian's eyes narrowed slightly, a hint of barely perceptible wariness flashing across them: "Oh? What special circumstances? Tell me." She wanted to see what tricks this young man could pull.

Yang Guangming cleared his throat, his voice clear and steady, as if stating an objective fact:
"The living conditions of these four households in our shikumen are not entirely the same. The front building..."

He looked at his own home. "This is my home. In the living room..."

He looked at Granny Chen, “This is Granny Chen’s house. These two places are private houses left by our ancestors, with property deeds, and have been registered and confirmed by the housing management office. As for the three-story pavilion…” He looked at Zhao Tiemin and He Caiyun.

“And the renovated kitchen.” He looked at Mrs. Feng. “It’s a rented public housing unit, directly managed by the housing management office.”

He paused, his gaze sweeping over his mother, Zhang Xiuying, and Granny Chen. Both of them nodded subconsciously, straightened their backs a little, and showed a confident "we have evidence" on their faces.

This is one of their strongest trump cards.

"The key is……"

Yang Guangming's voice wasn't loud, but it struck everyone's heart like a heavy hammer, hitting precisely the key point that Director Tian was trying to avoid:
"Although the drying platform and kitchen are now used as public areas for drying clothes and storing miscellaneous items, when this Shikumen was built, it was designed as an auxiliary space between the front building and the living room."

It may not have been written separately on the old property deeds, but the old neighbors all know that, legally and morally speaking, a portion of it originally belonged to our two private households.

The long-time neighbors can attest to this, and relevant records and explanations should also be found in the old archives of the neighborhood.

He spoke with conviction and reason.

The courtyard was silent, save for Yang Guangming's calm and steady voice, which clearly analyzed the sensitive and core issue of property rights:

"Therefore, Director Tian, ​​the drying platform to be used in this renovation is not strictly speaking a 'public space'."

It involves some of the rights and interests of our two private households.

Both our families are willing to support the work of the neighborhood committee and cooperate with the renovation. However…

He emphasized the word "but," looked at Director Tian with an open and sincere gaze, as if offering a kind reminder.

"Director Tian, ​​our organization's policy has always been 'not to take a single needle or thread from the masses,' and to respect and protect the legitimate property rights of the masses."

You are busy with work and may have overlooked the special property rights situation in Shikumen.

I feel it is necessary to point this out, so as to avoid unintentionally violating this basic principle of organization in the process of implementing policies, thereby harming the vital interests of the masses and damaging the image of the organization in the hearts of the masses.

If this gets out, or if someone takes it seriously in the future, it won't be good for the neighborhood office's work, or for you...

"We will not take a single needle or thread from the people!"
These eight words, like an invisible yet incredibly powerful bolt of lightning, instantly shattered the strong aura that Director Tian had deliberately created!

It precisely hits the core principles and moral high ground of policy implementation!

For the first time, Director Tian's expression changed noticeably!
Her pupils contracted slightly, and a fleeting look of surprise and seriousness flashed deep within her sharp eyes!
She had planned everything, but she never expected that this young secretary would so accurately and ruthlessly seize upon the fatal flaw in the policy that she could have vaguely addressed but could never openly deny!
Property rights are a sensitive issue, and the principle of "not taking a single needle or thread from the masses" is an iron discipline of the organization and a red line!

She has extensive work experience and is not afraid of being unreasonable, crying, or throwing a tantrum.

However, it is impossible to refute Yang Guangming's implicit accusations, which are well-reasoned, logical, and based on policy principles.

In particular, the heavy label of "not taking a single needle or thread from the masses" has been attached to us. This is no longer a simple question of how much compensation to provide, but has risen to a political level regarding whether there have been deviations in our work style and policy implementation!

Once the label of "infringing on the legitimate property rights of the masses" is confirmed, the consequences will be unimaginable!
If no one points this out, she can feign ignorance and use broad concepts like "public interest" and "overall planning" to cover it up and forcefully push forward.

But if someone points it out to your face, in front of everyone, and clarifies the special nature of property ownership, then this is an unavoidable matter of principle! It's a red line!

This absolutely cannot be ignored; a satisfactory solution that aligns with the spirit of the policy is essential!

In any case, she cannot tarnish the organization's basic policies, nor can she give others a handle to use against her, thus leaving hidden dangers for her political career!

The residents of the Shikumen listened to Yang Guangming's clear and resounding words, and watched as he calmly forced the high-ranking Director Tian into a situation where he had to directly address the issue of principle.

The despair and tension in their eyes became fuel, instantly igniting a burning hope!
Zhang Xiuying straightened her back even more, and a proud look appeared on her face.

Grandma Chen held her granddaughter-in-law Zhang Chunfang's hand tightly, her eyes filled with tears of emotion, and her lips trembling.

Even He Caiyun, still shaken, looked at Yang Guangming with disbelief, awe, and gratitude in her eyes.

Mrs. Feng's lips curved into a faint but sincere smile of appreciation, and she nodded slightly.

Even the usually taciturn Zhao Tiemin's gaze towards Yang Guangming held a hint of complexity.

Director Tian remained silent for a few seconds.

Those few seconds felt like an eternity to the people in the courtyard.

The air seemed to freeze again, with only Director Tian's mind racing, weighing the pros and cons.

She had made thorough preparations before coming, and knew the situation of each household very well, including whether the front building and the living room were private rooms and Yang Guangming's background.

Her original strategy was to divide and suppress, to cut through the mess quickly, and to resolve the issue swiftly with the high pressure of administrative orders and limited compensation.

But now, Yang Guangming has blocked her with irrefutable policy principles.

Faced with an opponent with such a unique background, a clear mind, an ability to grasp the key points of policy, and a precise grasp of the big labels of "organizational prestige" and the mass line, Director Tian instantly adjusted his strategy.

The best course of action is to tone down the hardline stance, appease and appease, take the initiative to make concessions, and meet their core demands. This will save face, ensure the successful completion of the mission, and avoid political risks.

The cold, businesslike facade on her face seemed to melt away instantly, replaced by a sincere, pragmatic expression, even carrying a hint of "thank you for reminding me" or "thank you for pointing it out."

"Comrade Xiaoyang," Director Tian's tone became unusually gentle, even carrying a hint of closeness and appreciation, "What you said is excellent! Very timely! Absolutely right!"

She used three "very"s in a row to highly affirm Yang Guangming's words, and her attitude was so sincere that no one could find fault with her.

"First of all, on behalf of the subdistrict office, I would like to express my gratitude to you! And more importantly, I would like to apologize to you!"

Director Tian adopted a very humble attitude and spoke sincerely:
"Thank you for pointing out the major oversight in our work in a timely manner!"
We apologize because it was indeed a mistake on our part; we did not have a detailed or thorough understanding of the property rights situation of the Shikumen houses!
This almost led to a work-related error, violating the organization's basic policy of "not taking a single needle or thread from the masses"!

This is my dereliction of duty, and on behalf of the subdistrict office, I apologize to everyone!

She bowed slightly to greet everyone. This humble gesture made Officer Liu, who was standing next to her, break out in a cold sweat and secretly marvel.

"You're absolutely right! Organizational policies are ironclad rules and red lines that must never be violated!"

Director Tian's tone was firm and resolute, then he turned to Zhang Xiuying and Granny Chen, his attitude becoming more gentle, carrying a sense of reassurance and promise:
"Sister Zhang, Grandma Chen, the neighborhood committee absolutely acknowledges that the drying platform involves your two families' private property rights!"

The organization's policy is clear: it will absolutely not seize even a single penny of the people's legitimate property! Please rest assured on this point! This is a matter of principle!

Zhang Xiuying and Granny Chen nodded repeatedly, their voices choked with emotion. Granny Chen even wiped away tears with her sleeve.
"Thank you, Director Tian! Thank you, the organization! Your words put my mind at ease!"

"Therefore," Director Tian returned to the topic of compensation, his tone becoming resolute, "the front building and the living room must be treated differently! They should be given more comprehensive and reasonable compensation! The subdistrict office has no objection to this!"

She first clarified the legitimacy and necessity of the compensation.

She paused, her face showing genuine, heartfelt difficulty:
"However, Comrade Xiaoyang, fellow neighbors, the compensation... is also limited."

This isn't because the neighborhood committee is stingy, nor is it because the organization is unwilling to give; rather, it's because... the organization also has its own difficulties.

Throughout the city and district, there are many situations like the Shikumen (stone-gate) houses. Resources are limited, and there are far more monks than porridge!

Both are equally dear to us; we need to consider all aspects and try to be as fair as possible.

She first blocked the least likely path: "First of all, there is absolutely no way we can give out a permanent position."

This authority doesn't belong to the street office, and the district wouldn't approve it either.

Please completely abandon this idea and never mention it again.

This is the bottom line, and there is no room for negotiation.

Next, she offered her first substantial compensation, far exceeding expectations, clearly targeting the Chen family, who were facing the most difficulties and needed job opportunities the most:

"However, considering the actual difficulties faced by the Chen family in the guest room, with a large population and heavy burden, we should indeed help them solve their work problems."

Alright then, Granny Chen, Comrade Zhang Chunfang.

She looked at Granny Chen, whose lips were trembling with excitement and who could barely stand, and Zhang Chunfang, whose face was full of expectation and whose hands were clasped tightly together, and said, "The neighborhood committee can arrange a temporary job for the Chen family."

What specific job position will I be in? Will I be sweeping the streets in the street cleaning team, or making cardboard boxes and gloves in the subordinate small factory? I will communicate and coordinate with the relevant units as soon as I get back and notify you as soon as possible.

Although it's just temporary work, the income is low and unstable, but it's still some income that can supplement the family income and earn some spare change and ration coupons.

With a "boom," a surge of joy completely overwhelmed Granny Chen like a tidal wave!

She couldn't believe her ears!

Temporary worker!
Although it can't compare to the secure job of a permanent employee, it's still an opportunity that many people would beg and plead for, or pull strings to get!

It can earn money! It can earn ration coupons! It can truly reduce the burden on the family!
This was a lifeline for the Chen family!

"Thank you! Thank you, Director Tian! Thank you, organization! Thank you, my benefactor!" Grandma Chen was in tears, trembling with excitement. She almost knelt down and kowtowed on the spot, but Zhang Chunfang, who was quick-witted and agile, held her back firmly.

Zhang Chunfang was also overjoyed and wept, tears streaming down her face. She bowed repeatedly, her voice choked with emotion.

"Thank you, Director Tian! Thank you! Thank you! I will definitely work hard! I will never slack off! I will never let the organization down!"

Overwhelmed with happiness, the grandmother and grandson were speechless.

This unexpected joy, like a warm spring breeze, instantly dispelled most of the tension and hostility in the courtyard.

As a result, people's perception of Director Tian has improved considerably. They feel that although she is strict, she is a reasonable and capable cadre.

The atmosphere finally eased.

The invisible, guarded wall between the street office officials and the residents seemed to have been breached, and the possibility of trust and cooperation began to emerge. Director Tian keenly sensed the shift in atmosphere and, seizing the opportunity, turned his gaze to Yang Guangming, adopting a more approachable attitude, even speaking with a hint of negotiation, as if addressing a respectable negotiating partner: "Comrade Xiao Yang, as for your family in the front building..."

A frank, even somewhat helpless smile appeared on her face:

"To be frank, although in principle both the living room and the front building are private rooms, the compensation should be the same."

But I really can't arrange a temporary job for your sister-in-law, Li Guihua. Why?

She counted on her fingers, as if reciting a familiar story, her tone carrying a hint of sincerity:

"Because of your family's circumstances, you are one of the best families in the whole neighborhood!"
Six people, four of whom are workers!

Your father, Master Yang, is a veteran worker and a key technical staff member in the factory, earning a good salary; you are the full-time secretary to Deputy Factory Director Zhao Guodong, with a bright future ahead; your brother is also a highly skilled key staff member in the factory; and your mother... I heard she was recently transferred to a more important position through a work-to-work conversion program.

If we were to assign them a temporary job under these conditions, not only would other disadvantaged households in the neighborhood have complaints and feel resentful.

If the factory and district leaders find out, they will probably have opinions, feeling that the street office's allocation of resources is unfair, and may even suspect that there is personal favoritism involved.

Even if I force you to work there, you probably won't last long. If there's the slightest disturbance, your workplace might find a reason to fire you in order to quell the gossip.

This... will only cause trouble for your family and for myself. Don't you think that makes sense?

She looked at Yang Guangming with a questioning gaze.

Director Tian's words were reasonable and insightful, reflecting a genuine consideration of the situation from the perspective of Yang Guangmingjia and the current political climate, and were not an attempt to shirk responsibility.

Temporary jobs attract too much attention. If you don't have a strong background or come from a "too well-off" family, you're more likely to become a target and cause unnecessary trouble.

Yang Guangming immediately expressed his gratitude with a very sincere attitude:

"Director Tian, ​​you're absolutely right! Thank you for being so considerate of our family!"
Our family's current situation is indeed much better than Grandma Chen's. This temporary job opportunity should be given to someone who needs it more.

Our family has no objections; we fully understand and support the neighborhood committee's decision!

His understanding of the bigger picture and his ability to know when to advance and retreat pleased Director Tian greatly, and the smile on his face became even more genuine, clearly showing that he was very willing to deal with such a sensible person.

"Excellent! Comrade Xiao Yang truly lives up to his reputation as a comrade working closely with the leader; his awareness is exceptional, and his understanding of issues is remarkably insightful!"

Director Tian nodded approvingly, her tone much more relaxed. After a moment's thought, she offered the Yang family a "sweetener," one that was substantial enough to match their "private interests" and cooperative attitude.

"Well then, your family's situation is special. Although we can't arrange jobs for you, we can't treat you too poorly in terms of compensation."

Because of the special circumstances, the neighborhood committee can report to higher authorities and try to get your family a... um... bicycle ticket, or sewing ticket!
Both of these items are scarce commodities, rationed, and very helpful in improving our lives. What do you think?
If you don't object, I'll go back and immediately submit a report to advocate for it!

She gave the other party the option, which showed great respect.

Bicycle tickets! Sewing machine tickets!
This is absolutely a huge surprise! In this era of extreme scarcity of resources and everything being supplied by ration coupons, the value of these two "big-ticket" coupons is no less than the income of a temporary worker!
Bicycles are an important means of transportation, which can greatly save commuting time and energy; sewing machines are even more "magical tools" that can improve family life, making it so convenient to make and mend clothes yourself!

Yang Yongkang, who had remained silent and seemingly detached from the matter, spoke for the first time.

His voice was soft, carrying the composure characteristic of an old worker and a hint of barely perceptible excitement, as he succinctly made his choice:

"Director Tian, ​​thank you. The bicycle voucher is useful. Thank you for your help."

Without any extra words, it expressed the final decision and heartfelt gratitude.

Li Guihua rubbed her hands together excitedly, her face beaming with joy.

"Great! Mr. Yang is so straightforward! Let's try to get the bicycle tickets!" Director Tian said with a smile, and the matter was settled.

The front building and the living room received the most affordable compensation, which best suited their respective needs, and Yang Guangming felt a huge weight lifted off his shoulders.

But he didn't forget the other two.

The alliance must not fall apart, and we must fight to the very end for the interests that deserve our advocacy.

Both the Zhao and Feng families suffered from the loss of space due to the compression, and their demands were strong before. If they are completely ignored now, it would not only be unfair, but it might also leave resentment.

He spoke at the opportune moment, his tone inquiring and suggestive, appearing very natural, as if he were supplementing and improving Director Tian's policies:

"Director Tian, ​​as you can see, the compensation issue between the front building and the living room has been resolved satisfactorily under your leadership, in accordance with both policy and practical considerations."

The other two families, the Zhao family and the Feng family, also have their situations laid out before us.

After the renovation, the public space was almost gone, and the drying platform was gone, which had a significant impact on their lives. For example, it became more difficult to dry clothes and store miscellaneous items.

You said it's impossible to have a job quota, so... could the neighborhood committee, within its capabilities, perhaps... arrange more odd jobs like pasting matchboxes, buttonhole making, or removing yarn scraps in the future?
So that the women in the family can also earn a little extra money for groceries near their homes to supplement their income?

This can be seen as a way to alleviate some of their financial burden and demonstrate the organization's care for those in need.

His request was specific, low-cost, and within the scope of the subdistrict office's work.

The request made by Yang Guangming was not a big deal for Director Tian; it was entirely within her authority.

The temporary worker quota is a "small resource" that the subdistrict office can flexibly control. It is low-cost, has little impact, and can also reflect the subdistrict's care for households in difficulty. It is an excellent tool for calming emotions and resolving conflicts.

She readily agreed immediately, her tone light:
"No problem! Comrade Xiao Yang's suggestion is reasonable and thoughtful. Officer Liu, write it down."

She turned to Officer Liu, who quickly took out his notebook and pen.

"When you get back, talk to the comrade in charge of odd jobs and ask him to give priority to these households in the Shikumen, especially the Zhao and Feng families, for jobs like pasting matchboxes, buttonholes, and taking apart yarn scraps."

The quota should be allocated as preferentially as possible, within a reasonable range! We must ensure everyone has work to do and earns money!

She waved her hand generously.

"Yes, Director! I'll get back and do it right away! Give it priority!" Officer Liu replied loudly while taking notes.

He Caiyun and Mrs. Feng immediately showed joy on their faces.

Although I didn't get the permanent job I dreamed of, or even a temporary job, being able to get more part-time work quotas and earn more extra money is a real benefit!

This was especially helpful for someone like He Caiyun, who is quick-witted, skilled in handicrafts, and has relatively flexible hours.

Mrs. Feng nodded slightly. Although the income from odd jobs was meager, every little bit helps, and it did provide some supplement to the family income.

Having secured a more important and sustainable gig economy commitment, the one-time compensation in the form of ration coupons like meat and oil coupons seems less important and more like icing on the cake.

Yang Guangming didn't bring it up again.

He knew that Director Tian would not forget that this was the perfect opportunity for her to show her care and consolidate her achievements.

Sure enough, Director Tian was happy to do a favor. The compensation for the ration coupons to the Shikumen residents was a matter that the street office had already decided upon, and now that the atmosphere was so good, it was a perfect opportunity to announce it, making everyone happy.

She turned to Officer Liu and said in a relaxed tone, "Officer Liu, please announce the ticket compensation standards that we decided on last time."

Although it's not much, it's a small token of the neighborhood committee's appreciation, making up for the inconvenience caused to everyone's lives.

Officer Liu quickly opened his briefcase, took out a piece of paper stamped with the street office seal, cleared his throat, and announced in a loud voice:
"After deliberation by the subdistrict office, in order to compensate for the inconvenience caused to the four households in the Shikumen community by this renovation of the drying platform, the following compensation in the form of vouchers is hereby granted:"

Meat coupons: two jin each! Cooking oil coupons: one jin each! Tofu coupons: two jin each! Sugar coupons: one jin each! Wool coupons: one jin each!

He pronounced the words clearly and accurately.

After announcing this, he added, "All four households have the same standard! Bring your household registration booklet and this notice to the logistics department of the subdistrict office within three days to collect your documents!"

He waved the notification in his hand.

Although the types and quantities of tickets remained the same as those previously revealed privately by Officer Liu, with no increase, the fact that Director Tian instructed and Officer Liu formally announced it now carried a completely different significance!
Because all four families received additional and more important compensation—the Chen family got a temporary job that would change their lives, the Yang family was expected to get a valuable bicycle ticket, and the Zhao and Feng families received a promise of more temporary work opportunities!

These tickets, ironically, became an extra, icing-on-the-cake "bonus"—the fruits of victory!

A tremendous sense of surprise and satisfaction overwhelmed everyone!

This has far exceeded their initial expectations, and is even better than the best outcome they dreamed of yesterday when they were "asking for an exorbitant price"!

"Thank you, Director Tian! Thank you, Officer Liu! Thank you for taking care of us!" Li Guihua was the first to cheer, slapping her thigh and grinning from ear to ear.

"Two catties of meat coupons! And oil coupons and sugar coupons too! What a waste... We don't even have this much for the New Year! We can cook a braised pork!" Grandma Chen wiped away tears of happiness, as if she could already smell the aroma of the meat.

"Even yarn coupons are good! I can knit a new sweater for my daughter to wear this winter!" Zhang Chunfang thought happily.

"With more temporary jobs available, we women have something to do too, and we can at least get some extra income!" He Caiyun's voice was filled with a rare joy.

Although she felt a little envious seeing Li Guihua's smug look, the feeling faded when she touched the receipt with her name on it in her pocket and thought about how she could get more odd jobs in the future.

Mrs. Feng and her husband, Teacher Feng, exchanged a smile and breathed a long sigh of relief.

The road to securing housing for my second son is still long, but today, we managed to hold the line and even managed to get some temporary work opportunities.

More importantly, Director Tian remembered the second son's difficulties, effectively making it a matter of concern at the neighborhood level. This was already the best possible outcome.

Zhang Xiuying walked to her son's side, patted his shoulder firmly, her eyes filled with pride and satisfaction, everything unspoken. Yang Guangming returned a calm smile to his mother.

Yang Yongkang, who had been silent all along, even managed a rare upward curve at the corners of his mouth.

The summer sun shines brightly through the narrow courtyard of the Shikumen gate, illuminating every face beaming with a sincere smile. Sweat glistens on their foreheads, but it cannot conceal the joy that comes from the heart.

The anxiety, worry, and resistance of the past few days vanished at this moment, turning into real joy and a beautiful vision for the future.

Looking at the faces before him, each one radiating genuine gratitude and satisfaction, Director Tian felt a sense of relief and even a surge of accomplishment.

Although the process was somewhat bumpy and she encountered a formidable opponent, the result was perfect. A relaxed, even somewhat friendly smile appeared on her face.

Officer Liu felt a great weight lifted off his shoulders, as if a heavy burden had finally been lifted, and the back of his shirt was soaked with sweat.

"Alright, that's settled then!" Director Tian concluded.

Her tone was gentle. “Everyone, hurry up and sign what needs to be signed. Cooperate with Officer Liu in your work. The renovation project will start soon, and Officer Liu will follow up on the follow-up matters.” She pointed to Officer Liu.

"Don't worry, Director Tian! I will definitely get it done!" Officer Liu quickly assured him.

Everyone happily escorted Director Tian and Secretary Liu to the gate, waving goodbye warmly and repeatedly expressing their gratitude: "Take care, Director Tian," "Thank you for your concern, Director Tian," and "Thank you for your hard work, Secretary Liu."

The scene was like bidding farewell to a loved one who brought good news.

As soon as the two cadres disappeared around the corner of the alley, an even bigger and more unrestrained cheer erupted in the courtyard!

"We won! We won!" Li Guihua was the first to jump up, slapping her thighs like a child, laughing so hard that her eyes disappeared from her grin, as if she wanted to vent all the frustration she had accumulated over the past few days.

Grandma Chen held Zhang Chunfang's hand, tears streaming down her face, repeatedly murmuring, "Work... Chunfang has a job... What a tragedy... May the Bodhisattva protect her... Thank you Mingming, thank you Director Tian..." Overwhelmed with joy, she became somewhat incoherent.

He Caiyun also showed a genuine smile, though she couldn't help but mutter "What's so great about him?" when she saw Li Guihua's smug look. But when she touched the receipt with her name on it in her pocket and thought about how she could get more odd jobs and earn more money in the future, her little displeasure disappeared.

Mrs. Feng and her husband stood side by side, looking at their jubilant neighbors, with relieved smiles on their faces.

Zhang Xiuying walked to her son's side, looked at his young yet composed profile, and whispered, "Mingming, you've done a great job today." Her tone was filled with undisguised pride.

Yang Guangming smiled and glanced at the neighbors who were immersed in joy: "It was everyone who withstood the pressure together. Especially Mrs. Feng, who spoke well at the crucial moment."

Yang Yongkang had somehow reappeared at the doorway. Looking at the bustling courtyard, he nodded to his son with a rare look of approval in his eyes.

Li Guihua then leaned over, beaming, and said, "Bicycle tickets! My family will get a new bicycle too!"

Even Zhao Tiemin, who was squatting in the corner, stood up, dusted himself off, walked over to He Caiyun, and muttered, "It's good to have more odd jobs." This was his way of expressing his feelings at the moment.

The summer breeze pierced through the sweltering heat of the alleyway, bringing a slight coolness.

The air was no longer filled with the oppressive smell of coal smoke and anxiety, but with the aroma of food, cheerful laughter, and a glimmer of hope for a better future.

(End of this chapter)