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

Chapter 166, page 165: The Battle for Compensation. Everyone Wants a Place to Take Over the Class. Xianglan Returns Home.
Master Wang explained it in great detail, as if afraid of missing any crucial information.

"The first thing was the one-time compensation payment from the factory."

His voice was low and deep. “Because Jianjun died in the line of duty, according to this standard, he will be given a one-time payment of 18 months’ basic salary. Jianjun’s monthly salary is 42.5 yuan, which adds up to a total of 765 yuan.”

When the number was announced, a few soft gasps rippled through the room. Seven hundred and sixty-five yuan was undoubtedly a huge sum for an ordinary working-class family in those days.

"The second thing," Master Wang continued, "is the long-term pension. The factory will give the two children a monthly living allowance until they reach adulthood. Honghong and Amao together will receive seventeen yuan a month."

He paused, then added, "Director Ma and Section Chief Tang said that the money will be paid to the child's mother monthly."

Yang Xianglan's arm holding Amao moved slightly, her gaze still lowered, fixed on the child's sleeping face.

“The third thing,” Master Wang raised his voice a little, “is the substitute shift position. According to the factory’s regulations, one position is allocated, and Xianglan will replace Jianjun to work at the factory.”

He looked specifically at Yang Xianglan, then at Yang Yongkang and Yang Guangming. “The factory leaders said that considering Xianglan’s special situation—she just gave birth and has to take care of two young children—they will try their best to arrange a less demanding position for her, possibly warehouse management or logistics.”

As he said this, his gaze fell on Yang Guangming, filled with sincere gratitude. "This is all thanks to Guangming. It was he who asked Section Chief Tang at the factory to mediate and secure such a good arrangement. Our whole family is extremely grateful that Xianglan has a relatively easy job."

Yang Guangming nodded slightly, his voice calm: "Uncle Wang, you're too kind. It's all for my eldest sister and the two children so they can have a better life. We're family, it's what we should do."

Master Wang shook his head and said sincerely, "Guangming, I will remember this favor. Asking someone to do a favor, especially something so important, must have cost me a lot of money and I owe a huge debt of gratitude. It will be hard to repay this debt of gratitude in the future."

He looked at Yang Yongkang and said, "Father-in-law, Guangming is a capable and responsible young man. He is truly willing to go to great lengths for his sister. We, the Wang family, will always remember this kindness."

For a moment, the lines on Yang Yongkang's rigid face seemed to soften.

He nodded slowly, his voice steady: "Guangming is his younger brother. His sister has suffered, so it's only right and proper for him to help. We're family, so let's not talk about these things. If we can get things done and pave a slightly smoother path for his older sister and two children in the future, then all the sacrifices will be worthwhile."

These words were both a response to Master Wang and an affirmation of his youngest son's actions, which added to Master Wang's respect for him.

Master Wang solemnly replied, "My dear in-laws are right. Although Jianjun is no longer here, our Wang family will never mistreat Xianglan and the two children. The better compensation terms that Guangming has secured for them will only be used for Xianglan and the two children. Please rest assured on this point!"

His cloudy eyes revealed a resolute determination.

“The last thing,” Master Wang’s voice carried a hint of barely perceptible complexity, “is the quota that Li Erzhu compensated for. The factory approved it, and our family can arrange for a qualified relative to take his place.”

This unexpected joy stirred up the atmosphere in the room once again.

Master Wang looked at Yang Yongkang and Yang Guangming: "Now, let's talk about the specific arrangements. First, there's this one-time compensation payment."

He paused, his gaze sweeping over everyone. "Seven hundred and sixty-five yuan, that's no small sum. I'm thinking of putting it all into a fixed deposit. This money was earned by Jianjun with his life; if we're going to spend it, it should only be spent wisely. When Amao grows up, we'll use it to help him get married and provide for his family!"

His gaze fell on the swaddled baby in Xianglan's arms, filled with deep longing.

Li Guihua, who had been listening intently, immediately chimed in, her voice filled with eager agreement:

"Uncle Wang is absolutely right! That's how it should be arranged!"

Xianglan is the child's biological mother, and her heart is with Honghong and Amao. It is most appropriate for her to manage this money in a fixed deposit!
"Using this against A Mao in the future will be perfectly legitimate, and no one can find fault with it!"

Both Master Wang and Mrs. Wang were visibly taken aback.

The wrinkles on Master Wang's face seemed to have deepened.

Wang's previously vacant eyes instantly focused, and her lips moved, but she didn't speak immediately.

The two exchanged a glance, both seeing surprise and a hint of unspoken concern in each other's eyes.

Their original intention was to deposit the money in a fixed-term deposit, which was correct, but the elderly couple wanted to keep the deposit certificate in their own hands.

After all, it takes too long.

Xianglan is only twenty-five years old. She has a long road ahead of her and it's hard to say whether she will take another step forward in the future.

This money was earned with Jianjun's life; it is the foundation of the Wang family and must be firmly held in their hands so that not a single penny will be used for A Mao in the future.

Wang Jianjun's eldest sister, Wang Jinhuan, sat next to Wang Shi; she was a lively and quick-witted person.

Seeing her parents' expressions and hearing Li Guihua's words, she immediately understood.

She cleared her throat, forced a smile, and tried to soften her tone:

"Guihua is right. It's only right to spend the money on A Mao."

However... Xianglan now has to take care of two children and will also have to go to work in the future, so she has a lot to worry about inside and outside the home.

This is a considerable sum of money, and safeguarding the deposit certificate is a responsibility.

My parents are still in good health and have been managing the household for many years. So, how about... we leave the savings certificate with them for now?
"When Amao grows up, we can hand him over to Xianglan, or we can give him to Amao directly; it's the same thing. It will save Xianglan the trouble of worrying about this."

Li Guihua could easily understand the underlying meaning. She sneered inwardly, but her face still wore the "enthusiastic" expression of advocating for her sister-in-law.
"What Jin Huan said is ridiculous. No matter how busy or tired Xiang Lan is, how could she be tired from keeping a deposit slip?"

Besides, Uncle Wang and Aunt Wang are a bit old, but they are in good health. However, this money is a long-term fixed deposit, and it will probably be kept for at least ten or twenty years.
It's been too long; even if an elderly person has a good memory, there's no guarantee that something might happen to them.

What if… I mean, what if, after so much time, I can't remember where I put the deposit slip, or I can't find it?

She then changed the subject, her tone becoming earnest: "The old couple only have one grandson, Amao, and their love for him is 100%, none of us would doubt that."

But if something like this really happens that I 'can't remember,' who knows what those who don't know the truth will say about it!

If someone makes wild guesses and pins such a huge blame on Sister Jinhuan and Sister Yinhuan, saying that the old lady secretly subsidized her daughter with this money, then the old lady will really have no way to explain herself!

Isn't this just making the elderly person suffer unjustly?

She paused, noticing the sudden change in expression on Wang Jinhuan and Wang Yinhuan's faces, and continued:

"So, to avoid such trouble in the future and to shut outsiders up, it's best to do it right the first time."

The deposit slip will be kept by Xianglan for safekeeping!
Those present today are all close relatives from both sides; let us all stand as witnesses.

This way, everything is clear and transparent, no one can find fault with it, and it won't cause the two elderly people and the two sisters to suffer unnecessary suspicion.

Don't you agree?

Her words sounded like they were for the good of the Wang family, for the sake of the elders and her two aunts' reputations, but every word hit the Wang family's most sensitive spot—their worry about Xianglan's future remarriage, and their fear of gossip from outsiders.

Wang Jinhuan and Wang Yinhuan's faces flushed red and then turned pale.

Although they sometimes like to take advantage of others when they go back to their parents' home, they have a clear conscience and have never had any intention of taking this pension.

Li Guihua's words, ostensibly meant to protect their reputation, were actually putting them in a very difficult position.

If they object again, wouldn't that confirm the suspicion that they are "trying to take advantage of their own family"?

Wang Yinhuan was a bit soft-hearted; she hesitated for a moment, then ultimately didn't dare to speak again.

Wang Jinhuan was seething with anger and wanted to argue back, but Li Guihua had already said so much; if she continued to argue, it would seem like she had ulterior motives.

Wang sat in a rattan chair, leaning slightly forward.

Although the immense grief left her dazed and confused, she mustered her last bit of strength because it concerned the future of her eldest grandson, Amao, and the huge sum of money that had been obtained at the cost of her son's life.

She looked at Li Guihua, then at the silent Yang Xianglan, her voice weak but carrying an undeniable resolve:
“Guihua… I know you mean well. But this family… when Jianjun was alive, I was the head of the household. Now that Jianjun is gone, I am still the elder in this family!”

She took a breath, her eyes sharpening slightly. "I...I'm only fifty years old this year, not senile yet!"
How could I not care about my own grandson? I'll keep this money safer than anyone else!

"When that day truly comes—when I can no longer move, or my memory truly fails, I will naturally hand over the deposit slip to Xianglan and Amao as soon as possible! I will never delay the children's important matters!"

Li Guihua knew perfectly well that the Yang family already planned to have Xianglan remarry. Once Xianglan remarried and left home, this money would be completely out of the Wang family's hands.

By then, if anything goes wrong with the money, Xianglan won't have the right to ask about it, even if she wanted to.

The old lady is saying nice things now, but she still has two biological daughters.

What if the two daughters' families encounter some insurmountable difficulties in the future, and the old lady, with a soft heart, lends out the money or even helps them out? Who can guarantee that? Amao is still young; who will he ask for the money back then?
On such a crucial issue, she had to fight to the end for Xianglan and for the Yang family.

She's determined to be the "villain"!

Li Guihua smiled broadly, her tone exceptionally considerate: "Auntie, what are you saying! Xianglan is such a filial daughter-in-law, we can all see that. Letting you manage the household all these years is her duty, and also your blessing; we all envy her!"

She changed the subject: "But the situation is different now! Jianjun is gone, and you and your uncle have suffered so much. It's time for you to rest and enjoy your retirement."

The burden of this family matter cannot fall on your shoulders any longer.

From now on, it's only natural that Xianglan should be in charge!

Let her handle it; you two can just offer guidance from the sidelines. That way, you won't have to worry about it. Don't you agree?

Her words were like a soft knife coated with honey, making the power grab sound like filial piety and thoughtfulness.

Seeing that the atmosphere was about to become tense again, Master Wang sighed heavily.

His wrinkled face was full of fatigue. His eyes swept over the people with different expressions, especially the almost stubborn persistence in his wife Wang's eyes, and Li Guihua's seemingly considerate but actually unyielding attitude.

He didn't want any more arguments to break out in the family on the day his son was buried.

"All right!"

Master Wang's voice wasn't loud, but it carried the decisiveness of a head of the household, silencing all the discussions.

He looked at Li Guihua, then at Wang Shi, and finally his gaze settled on Yang Yongkang and Yang Guangming as he slowly spoke:
"This money was earned by Jianjun with his life, and it can only be used for A Mao. This is a matter of course, and no one can have any designs on it!"

He paused for a moment, then announced his decision: "Since both sides have concerns, let's compromise. We'll split the 765 yuan into two fixed deposits."

One deposit slip contained 382.5 yuan, which was kept by Xianglan. The other, also containing 382.5 yuan, was kept by his grandmother.

He looked at Li Guihua and Wang Jinhuan and explained, "Just like Guihua said, the future is too long, and no one can predict what might happen."

Keeping them in two separate locations is also a form of protection.

Mutual supervision between the two sides can also prevent any misunderstandings from arising.

When A-Mao needs money in the future, both sides will contribute together, and neither can fake it.

This plan not only catered to Wang's desire to control a portion of the money, but also satisfied Li Guihua's request on behalf of the Yang family to allow Xianglan to control a portion of the compensation funds, and silenced any gossip that the sisters-in-law might be taking advantage of the situation.

Li Guihua quickly weighed the options in her mind.

Although they didn't get all of it, getting half is still a good result, at least ensuring that Xianglan has some control over the money.

Moreover, Master Wang's reasons were valid, and her continued objection would seem unreasonable.

A smile of approval immediately spread across her face: "Uncle Wang, that's a great idea! Fair! Safe! It puts both sides at ease! You're so thoughtful!"

Wang's lips moved as if she wanted to say something, but looking at her husband's tired but determined eyes, and then at Li Guihua's "the situation is settled" expression, she swallowed her words and nodded silently.

Wang Jinhuan and Wang Yinhuan naturally had no objections.

Yang Yongkang nodded slightly: "Your in-laws have considered everything carefully. That's good."

Zhang Xiuying breathed a sigh of relief and nodded in agreement.

Yang Guangming looked at his father and Master Wang with a calm expression, seemingly unsurprised by the outcome.

"The one-time death benefit is settled." Mr. Wang seemed to have a heavy burden lifted off his shoulders, and his voice became more relaxed. "Now let's talk about the long-term death benefit of seventeen yuan per month."

This time, he didn't wait for anyone else to speak and directly stated his thoughts:
"This money is the monthly living expenses that the factory pays to Honghong and Amao."

Although Jianjun is no longer here, my salary still supports the family. And when Xianglan starts working, she'll also have a salary.

Our family isn't large, so we can manage even if we're a bit frugal. My point is, we should save that seventeen yuan a month! Don't touch a single penny!"

He looked at everyone and said firmly, "We'll open a separate account for the savings, specifically for the two children. When Honghong gets married and Amao gets married, we'll take out the money and spend it all on them! No one is allowed to use this money!"

This suggestion was reasonable and immediately received unanimous approval from everyone.

Even Li Guihua nodded repeatedly. This money was for the two children. The leader had said that the money would be given to Xianglan. It wasn't important to open a separate account for the two children; what was important was that the passbook be in Xianglan's hands.

Some minor details, nothing to argue about.

"Next, it's about finding a replacement." Master Wang turned his gaze to Yang Xianglan, with a hint of comfort. "Xianglan taking over the shift and joining the Dongfang Factory is a decision made by the factory, and it makes sense. As for the position, Guangming asked Section Chief Tang to take care of it and get some preferential treatment. We should keep that in mind."

He glanced at his two daughters, Wang Jinhuan and Wang Yinhuan.

Although both of them watched longingly, they knew in their hearts that this spot was not for them.

Even if parents love their daughters dearly, they wouldn't give them the spot that their daughter-in-law deserves. Besides, with the Yang family present, they dared not speak up. Both of them silently lowered their heads, which was taken as tacit agreement.

Master Wang nodded: "Okay, it's settled then that Xianglan will take over."

He paused, took a deep breath, and his gaze fell on Yang Guangming again, carrying a solemn and entrusted meaning:

"Finally, I want to talk about the quota that Li Erzhu compensated for. This quota was obtained by accident. It was Guangming who planned it and asked Section Chief Tang to persuade the factory to agree, which is how this quota came about."

To accomplish such a major task, it must have involved significant favors and resources.

He spoke sincerely: "You've seen the situation on our Wang family's side. I'm still working, her grandmother is too old, and Honghong and Amao are too young to take over. This position... we don't have a suitable person in the Wang family to fill it."

He looked around, but his gaze finally settled on Yang Guangming's face: "Guangming, I'd like to hear your opinion on how to allocate this spot. After all, you contributed the most and have the clearest understanding of the situation, which is why we got this spot."

All eyes instantly focused on Yang Guangming.

Li Guihua's heart jumped, and her fingers unconsciously twisted the hem of her clothes.

Wang Jinhuan and Wang Yinhuan also suddenly raised their heads, their eyes sparkling with hope.

Yang Guangming met Master Wang's gaze with a calm expression, clearly having given it considerable thought.

He sat up slightly, his voice clear and calm:
“Uncle Wang, since you asked me to speak, I will share my thoughts from a practical perspective.”

"First, this spot is hard-won and must not be wasted."

Since the Wang family doesn't have a suitable person to take over, the best solution is to transfer the business.

"We shouldn't let the good stuff go to outsiders; we should prioritize our relatives on both sides."

"Second, the transfer cannot be gratuitous."

Dongfang Machinery Factory is a large factory, and a regular employee position would cost at least 850 to 900 yuan to transfer to someone else.

Since it's a transfer to a relative, there should be some consideration involved. I think the price of 800 yuan is fair and reasonable. It reflects the kinship without making the Wang family feel too cheated.

“Third,” he emphasized, his gaze sweeping over several interested individuals, “this transfer has a prerequisite: it is not a permanent transfer.”

He looked at Master Wang and Madam Wang, and also at Yang Yongkang: "In the end, this quota was given by Li Erzhu to the Wang family, and to Amao and Honghong as compensation."

The reason for transferring them now is that they are too young to use them.

But in the future, when Amao and Honghong grow up, if they need to work, and I can't find a suitable job opportunity.

Therefore, this job opening must be transferred back at today's transfer price—eight hundred yuan! The person taking over must agree unconditionally!

He paused for a moment, allowing everyone to process the information.

"Whoever wants to take this job must accept these conditions! And it must be written down in black and white, signed and sealed! All relatives and friends present today must sign as witnesses!"

He added, "Of course, if Honghong and Amao become successful in the future and find better jobs, and no longer need this spot, then this transfer will be a permanent transfer of 800 yuan, and the Wang family will not ask for it back in the future."

This plan not only solves the immediate problem of unused quotas, but also maximizes the future interests of Amao and Honghong, while also taking into account kinship and market prices.

After listening, Master Wang's furrowed brows relaxed, and he nodded vigorously: "Guangming, you've thought this through! This method is good! It's reasonable! I agree!"

Yang Yongkang also said in a deep voice, "Guangming has considered things very far ahead; this plan is feasible."

With both sets of parents nodding in approval, the basic framework of the transfer plan was finalized.

Now that the plan is finalized, the next step is to decide who will receive the spot.

The air instantly became tense again.

The moment Yang Guangming finished speaking, Li Guihua's heart pounded wildly, as if gripped by an invisible hand.

A permanent position in a large state-owned factory! A fixed monthly salary and labor protection benefits—a coveted "iron rice bowl" for many!

Li Guihua is unemployed and lives off her husband Yang Guanghui's salary and the help from her in-laws.

If she can seize this opportunity, she can completely change her situation and become a person with a salary!

Whether at her husband's family home, her own family home, or even among neighbors in the Shikumen neighborhood, she can stand taller!

Even if she doesn't win in the end, she must be the first to speak out! Seize the initiative!

What if... what if no one in the Wang family dares to argue with her, or what if her in-laws agree because she spoke up for Xianglan?

Although eight hundred yuan is an astronomical sum, as long as the Wang family is willing to be accommodating and allow her to pay in installments, or even deduct it from her salary gradually in the future, she has a way to manage it! She's even willing to pay more interest!

The immense temptation and urgency made her almost unable to restrain herself.

The moment the thought flashed through her mind, Li Guihua suddenly stood up.

Her movement was somewhat abrupt, instantly attracting everyone's attention.

A warm smile spread across her face, and her voice rose slightly with excitement, carrying an undeniable and commanding presence:

"Uncle Wang! Auntie! Dad! Mom! Since Guangming said that priority will be given to relatives, then I won't stand on ceremony!"

She straightened her back and looked intently at Master Wang and Mrs. Wang: "I want to take this job!"
I, Li Guihua, have been unemployed and have been staying at home all this time. If I could get a job at Dongfang Factory, I would definitely work hard! I would never let either of our families down! As for that eight hundred yuan, I... I would sell everything I own to find a way to scrape together the money!

She finished speaking in one breath, her chest rising and falling slightly, her eyes gleaming with unwavering determination. Her preemptive declaration was meant to silence Wang Jinhuan and Wang Yinhuan!

However, if Li Guihua could understand this, how could Wang Jinhuan and Wang Yinhuan not understand it?
They knew all too well what the preciousness of job openings meant, especially in a large state-owned factory like Dongfang Machinery Factory.

Wang Jinhuan was quick-witted. When she saw that Li Guihua had taken the lead, she couldn't sit still any longer.

She also jumped to her feet, forcing a smile, but her tone carried an undeniable competitive edge:
“Dad, Mom! It’s a good thing that Guihua wants to take over, but… this spot was compensated to our Wang family by Erzhu. In the end, it was Jianjun’s life that got it…”

She deliberately emphasized "Wang family" and "Jianjun", her gaze swept over Li Guihua, and then looked at her parents. "I am Jianjun's older sister. Although I am married, the blood ties between us can never be broken!"
I don't have a formal job, and my family is struggling financially.

If I can get a job in the factory, with this salary, I can help my family more and take better care of Honghong and Amao!
I'll borrow that eight hundred yuan, even if I have to!

Her words highlighted her blood relation and her identity as a daughter of the Wang family, subtly putting Li Guihua, the "outsider daughter-in-law," in a superior position, while also playing the cards of kinship and mutual support.

Wang Yinhuan wasn't as outspoken as her older sister, but the immense temptation emboldened her.

She stood up timidly as well, her voice soft but clear: "Dad, Mom... I... I don't have a job either. I want to... I want to try."

My family has many children and a heavy burden. If only... if only I could have a job…

She didn't say anything more, but her longing and embarrassment were already evident.

The air seemed to freeze in the small main room.

In the flickering candlelight, the figures of the three women appeared exceptionally clear.

Li Guihua stood on the Yang family's side, her face showing eagerness and determination.

Wang Jinhuan stood on the side of the Wang family's daughter, her eyes filled with a sense of competition and superiority based on blood ties.

Wang Yinhuan was caught in the middle, somewhat timid, but equally unwilling to give up this opportunity to change her fate.

Master Wang, Madam Wang, Yang Yongkang, Zhang Xiuying, Yang Guanghui, Yang Xianglan... Everyone's eyes moved back and forth between these three women.

Wang Jianjun's portrait silently watches all of this in the candlelight.

The previously heavy and oppressive atmosphere was now replaced by a new and fierce struggle.

Mr. Wang felt a headache coming on.

Jin Huan and Yin Huan are both his biological daughters; they are equally dear to him. Li Guihua, on the other hand, is Xiang Lan's sister-in-law, and this job opportunity was secured by Yang Guangming through considerable effort—a fact that cannot be ignored.

He looked at his wife, Wang, who also looked troubled.

“This…” Master Wang rubbed his rough hands and looked at Yang Guangming, “Guangming, look at this…”

Yang Guangming's face remained calm, as if he had expected this.

He said, "Uncle Wang, there is only one spot available, but there are three people who want to accept it."

Both are my children, you and your aunt must be in a difficult position.

I think we should do this: since they all meet the condition of 'prioritizing family members' and are willing to accept the buyback clause, let's see who can raise all the money first.”

His gaze swept over Li Guihua, Wang Jinhuan, and Wang Yinhuan: "Sister-in-law, Sister Jinhuan, Sister Yinhuan, you should all go back and discuss it with your families to see who can come up with the eight hundred yuan the fastest."

On Sunday, everyone come over again, and whoever can gather enough will have priority to transfer the shares.

This way, it's fair and reasonable, and it avoids hurting relationships among relatives.

This approach throws the problem back to the competitors themselves, and also gives everyone a buffer.

After all, eight hundred yuan is not a small amount; it is equivalent to the wages of an ordinary worker for two years without eating or drinking.

Li Guihua's heart skipped a beat.

Her family was of modest means, and her husband, Yang Guanghui, earned a limited salary. Over the years, they had only managed to save a little over three hundred yuan. It was really too much to ask him to come up with eight hundred yuan all at once.

Looking for someone to lend her money? Who can lend her money?
She quickly considered possible avenues in her mind, but dared not show the slightest hesitation on her face, and immediately nodded: "Guangming is right! That's fair! I agree! I'll go back and think of a way right away!"

Wang Jinhuan was also worried. Her husband's family was only of average means, and her own small family had almost no savings. Eight hundred yuan was undoubtedly a huge amount, and the pressure would be too great. Her husband's family might not agree to it.

However, she was strong-willed and refused to lose to Li Guihua in terms of momentum, so she immediately said, "Okay! Let's do it the way Guangming said! I'll go back and discuss it too!"

Seeing that both of them had expressed their opinions, Wang Yinhuan whispered, "I...I'll go back and ask the head of the household too."

"Okay, let's agree on this for now." Master Wang breathed a sigh of relief and gave Yang Guangming a grateful look. This solution temporarily resolved the current dispute.

The matter was basically settled, and the room fell into a brief silence. The grief and exhaustion of the past few days had left everyone feeling utterly drained.

Yang Yongkang glanced at the wall clock and then gave Zhang Xiuying a wink.

Zhang Xiuying understood, her body swayed slightly, and her hand unconsciously rose and gently pressed against her left chest.

Li Guihua, keeping a close eye on her mother-in-law's movements, immediately tightened her grip on her arm, her voice tinged with just the right amount of anxiety: "Mom? Mom, what's wrong? Is it...?"

Zhang Xiuying frowned, her face appearing even more sallow under the dim light. Her voice was weak and breathless: "My chest... my chest feels tight... I'm a little... a little short of breath..."

As she spoke, she leaned softly against Li Guihua.

"Mom!" Li Guihua's voice suddenly rose, trembling with tears and panic. "Don't scare me! Dad! Mom seems to be dying again! What should we do!"

While struggling to support Zhang Xiuying, she anxiously glanced at Yang Yongkang and Yang Guangming, then at Master Wang and Madam Wang, her gaze lingering on them. She spoke rapidly, muttering to herself:

"My mom's old heart problem has flared up again!"

Two years ago, the doctor said it was angina and that I couldn't be stimulated or overworked!

These past few days, she hasn't been able to eat or sleep well because of her brother-in-law's situation. She keeps saying that her heart feels like it's being stabbed with needles at night. Last night, the pain was so bad that she almost passed out and had to take several emergency pills to recover!
This is such a huge blow, she definitely won't be able to handle it!

Her words, delivered in rapid succession with genuine concern, instantly drew everyone's attention.

Yang Yongkang immediately stepped forward, supporting Zhang Xiuying's other arm, his brows furrowed, his voice low: "Xiuying! Xiuying, hold on!"

He looked up at Master Wang and Madam Wang, his tone apologetic and urgent: "My dear in-laws, I'm so sorry, Xiuying's health... I'm afraid she can't take it anymore. We need to take her home to rest as soon as possible; we have medicine at home."

Wang was somewhat bewildered by this sudden turn of events. Seeing Zhang Xiuying leaning weakly against her daughter-in-law, she repeatedly said, "Oh dear, mother-in-law! You must have been exhausted these past few days. What are we going to do?"

Master Wang quickly said, "Yongkang, hurry! Help Xianglan's mother back home! Her health is the most important thing!"

Yang Xianglan's previously vacant eyes flashed with panic and worry due to her mother's "sudden illness," and she subconsciously tried to stand up: "Mom..."

Li Guihua reacted swiftly, supporting Zhang Xiuying tightly while turning to look at Yang Xianglan, her voice urgent and earnest, brooking no argument:
"Xianglan! Look at Mom's face! It's terrifying! She can't go on without someone taking care of her day and night!"

I know you're upset, but Honghong and Amao are so young, they're at that fussy age. You're raising two children alone, and you've just finished your postpartum period. How can you also worry about Mom's health?"

She paused, then spoke even faster: "In your current condition, you can no longer bear any more worry and anxiety. If you are anxious every day, and your milk supply dries up, then there will be a big problem!"

But with Mom's health like this, you wouldn't feel at ease if you didn't see it with your own eyes and take care of her.

Why don't you take the child and go back to your parents' house for a while?
Firstly, it makes it easier to take care of Mom and fulfill my filial duty; secondly, a change of environment allows me to relax and not have to be saddened by those old things every day, which helps me cheer up sooner.

After all, from now on, this family and the two children will both depend on you!

You need to take care of yourself first before you can take care of your child!

"Your family has Dad, Mom, your older brother, Mingming, and me—we can all lend a hand! Don't you think so?"

Li Guihua's words hit the nail on the head—filial piety, a change of environment, emotional respite, and support from others. Especially given Zhang Xiuying's current "illness relapse," they seemed perfectly reasonable.

Yang Xianglan looked at her mother leaning against her sister-in-law, her face ashen and her brows furrowed in pain. Then she looked at her sleeping son in her arms and her daughter, who looked bewildered and frightened, beside her legs. A huge sense of bewilderment and helplessness surged into her heart again.

Master Wang and Mrs. Wang exchanged a glance. It was only natural for the daughter-in-law to take her child back to her parents' home to care for her mother, given that her mother-in-law had fallen ill in public and was in critical condition.

Even though they were extremely reluctant to part with their grandson Amao, who was only a month old, how could they stop them under these circumstances?
Wang opened her mouth, wanting to say something, but looking at Zhang Xiuying's appearance and then at Yang Xianglan's distraught yet pretentious state, she could only sigh deeply, tears welling up in her eyes again, and waved her hand weakly.

Master Wang's throat bobbed, his voice dry: "Xianglan... your mother's health is the most important thing. You... you should take the child and go back to your parents' house for a while."

Take good care of your mother, and... take good care of yourself and the children too. Your mother and I are here at home, so don't worry.

Yang Xianglan nodded blankly.

Her mind was a complete blank; she felt utterly exhausted. Her mother's sickly appearance weighed heavily on her, making it hard to breathe. Leaving this place, filled with the suffocating atmosphere of the military's founding, and returning to her mother's familiar surroundings seemed... like a form of relief.

"Then... I'll have to trouble you, in-laws," Yang Yongkang said in a deep voice, his tone carrying a barely perceptible hint of relief.

He immediately gave instructions, "Guanghui, Mingming, hold your mother steady. Guihua, help Xianglan pack up Honghong and Amao's things, hurry up."

Yang Guangming and Yang Guanghui immediately stepped forward and carefully supported Zhang Xiuying from both sides.

Li Guihua responded and took Xianglan's hand to enter the house. Under Xianglan's direction, the two of them worked together and quickly began to pack Honghong's little bundle and A Mao's diapers, bottles and other items.

Li Guihua focused on asking where Xianglan's clothes were kept and that everything she could take was packed into her bundle.

Wang Jinhuan and Wang Yinhuan watched this scene, their lips moved, but they ultimately said nothing.

Soon, everything was packed.

The Yang family bid farewell to Master Wang and Mrs. Wang.

"My dear in-laws, we...we'll head back now. Please take good care of yourselves," Yang Yongkang said.

“Go back, go back… drive carefully, take good care of Xianglan’s mother…” Master Wang’s voice choked with emotion.

Wang leaned back in the rattan chair, silently shedding tears, her gaze fixed on the tiny swaddled baby in Yang Xianglan's arms.

Yang Xianglan held her child and held Honghong's hand. She took one last look at her husband's portrait on the wall, her eyes empty and weary. She turned and followed her family out of the house that held both immense sorrow and fleeting warmth.

Outside, it was nearly dusk.

The courtyard of the Shikumen was quiet, with only a few dim streetlights lit.

The Yang family members silently walked out of the Wang family's gate and disappeared into the darkness of the alley.

Zhang Xiuying leaned on her two sons, her steps unsteady, but she was able to support her weight somewhat.

Yang Yongkang walked at the front, his back straight and his steps firm.

Li Guihua followed behind, secretly relieved.

Yang Guangming, supporting his mother, glanced back at the tightly closed door of the Wang family's house, then looked at his eldest sister, Yang Xianglan, who was holding a child and had a blank expression.

He knew that he had finally taken this step.

The road ahead is long, but at least the eldest sister and her two children are back with them.

A night breeze blew through the alley, carrying a hint of coolness.

This family, with an infant who had just lost his father, an innocent little girl, a daughter who had lost her husband and was heartbroken, and an exhausted mother, embarked on their journey home.

(End of this chapter)