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

Chapter 175, Section 174: Open Rejection, Inauguration Statement, Subtly Revealing Ambition
Wen Yongze and Yang Guangming entered the finance department's large office one after the other.

In the office, the abacus beads clicked and clacked, the sound crisp and rhythmic, mixed with the rustling of papers turning and the low murmur of conversation.

Several accountants were engrossed in using abacuses, their fingers moving rapidly across the beads, their wrists rising and falling with practiced rhythm. Someone was filling out a report with a dip pen, the pen tip making a soft scratching sound as it glided across the paper.

Their arrival was like a pebble thrown into a calm pond.

Almost the instant the door was pushed open, all sounds in the office seemed to pause. The clatter of abacuses stopped, the turning of pages slowed, and whispers ceased. Even the distant roar of machinery from the factory outside the window seemed to fade into the distance.

Those who were originally working at their desks, fiddling with abacuses, or walking around with account books all raised their eyes in unison, focusing on the doorway, or more accurately, on the excessively young figure behind Wen Yongze.

Several female clerks who were checking accounts subconsciously straightened their collars and the ends of their hair.

Curiosity, inquiry, scrutiny, surprise, and perhaps a hint of barely perceptible resistance—various emotions intertwined silently in these gazes.

Some people subconsciously pushed up their glasses, while others unconsciously sat up straight.

A young clerk who was carrying account books stopped and stood there looking somewhat bewildered.

The official document appointing Yang Guangming as the deputy head of the finance department had been circulated to all departments several days prior.

Everyone already had a feeling that he was coming. But seeing his name on paper and seeing him in person are two completely different experiences. Especially his young face, which was quite different from the image of a deputy section chief that everyone had imagined.

Especially when they saw his face, which still carried a hint of youthful spirit yet was unusually calm, and thought that he had already entered the ranks of deputy section-level cadres at such a young age, many veteran accountants sitting in the office could not help but feel complicated emotions.

Several young clerks, around the same age as Yang Guangming, had a fleeting, almost imperceptible look of envy in their eyes, which quickly turned into anticipation for their own future.

Some of the more senior accountants, their hair already streaked with gray, pushed up their reading glasses, their gaze lingering for a moment on the sun-washed but neatly ironed blue khaki suit worn by young men, before silently lowering their eyes and continuing to look at the ledgers on the table, their gaze seemingly unable to move for a long time.

One of the older accountants unconsciously stroked the frame of his abacus, revealing his inner turmoil. His abacus had been used for over a decade, the beads worn smooth and shiny.

Several of the younger clerks couldn't help but take a few more glances, exchanging knowing looks.

A young woman with two braids quickly lowered her head, pretending to organize the vouchers in front of her, but her ears turned slightly red. The young man next to her nudged her lightly with his elbow, and the two exchanged a meaningful glance.

Wen Yongze seemed to have anticipated this scene. Without stopping, he walked straight to the slightly more spacious area in the center of the large office and stood there. His gaze, habitually and with the scrutinizing sense unique to personnel cadres, swept across the entire room.

His gaze swept across each desk, as if he were counting heads, or perhaps searching for a particular person.

Yang Guangming followed half a step behind him, his posture upright and his expression composed.

He calmly received the various gazes directed at him, his face showing neither the awkwardness of a newcomer nor the arrogance of a young man who had achieved early success, but only a composure befitting his status.

His gaze swept across the entire large office quickly and silently.

Against the wall are rows of dark wood desks, with abacuses, ledgers, ink bottles, and dip pens neatly arranged on the desktops.

Several dark green metal filing cabinets stood in the corner, with small brass locks hanging on the cabinet doors.

Several yellowed propaganda posters and regulations were pasted on the wall, and at the top was a portrait of a leader.

The entire space felt cramped yet practical, filled with the atmosphere typical of government offices.

Wen Yongze's gaze swept quickly across the room, then he looked up towards the innermost part of the main office.

There were three dark brown wooden doors side by side, one of which was open, and the space inside looked somewhat empty.

The other two wooden doors were tightly closed. One door had a small white wooden sign that read "Section Chief," and the other read "Deputy Section Chief."

Wen Yongze's brows furrowed almost imperceptibly. This subtle change in expression quickly disappeared, and his face returned to its usual calm.

He cleared his throat, his voice not loud, but loud enough for everyone in the office to hear clearly. He didn't specifically name anyone, but asked as he would when assigning tasks:
"Where are your two section chiefs? Call them both over here." His voice was exceptionally clear in the quiet office, carrying an unquestionable authority.

His voice echoed in the quiet office, the old-fashioned wall clock ticking rhythmically and clearly. A soft cough came from a corner, but was quickly suppressed.

Everyone knew that Section Chief Liu and Deputy Section Chief Yin were definitely behind those two closed doors.

When important official documents are issued by the factory, especially personnel appointments and removals, the leaders of the relevant departments cannot be unaware of them.

This morning, Wen Yongze will personally escort Yang Guangming to his new post; this was a schedule that had been announced long ago.

Knowing that the person would arrive soon, the two of them both closed their doors and windows, which in itself was a subtle yet clear signal, silently expressing a kind of resistance that was inconvenient to express openly.

Some people shifted uncomfortably in their seats, while others lowered their heads to hide a slight smile. An older accountant sighed softly, almost inaudibly.

Ordinary staff members might see this as just a routine personnel transfer, but cadres like Wen Yongze, who were in the middle management of the factory, well-informed, and adept at navigating interpersonal relationships, saw it clearly.

His gaze swept over the two tightly closed doors, his lips twitching slightly, but he quickly regained his composure.

It was no secret that factory director Zhao Guodong was dissatisfied with the work style and attitude of Liu Jinsheng, the head of the finance department, and that he had even indirectly criticized him, albeit not very strongly, at some factory meetings.

Under this premise, Zhao Guodong transferred his trusted secretary, whom he had personally promoted and relied on heavily, to the finance department under the pretext of "strengthening leadership." His purpose was self-evident.

The older employees in the office all knew perfectly well that a deeper power struggle lay behind this personnel change.

Supervision, checks and balances, and may even pave the way for further arrangements in the future.

These underlying implications are clear to any discerning observer with a little thought, let alone Liu Jinsheng and Yin Yongliang, the two people at the center of the storm.

The veteran accountants exchanged knowing glances, all understanding what this personnel change meant.

No one likes to have a pair of eyes, representing a higher will, suddenly appearing in their relatively independent territory, which they have cultivated for many years, watching them all the time.

It is perfectly normal for Liu Jinsheng and Yin Yongliang to be wary and resistant to Yang Guangming's arrival.

This feeling was silently conveyed to everyone in the office through those two tightly closed doors.

Although Yang Guangming and Liu Jinsheng had become acquainted through regular gatherings of Zhang Weiqiang's small circle over the previous six months, and their relationship appeared to be harmonious on the surface, with them chatting and laughing together.

But times have changed. Back then, Yang Guangming was the factory director's secretary, a bridge that could potentially pass on messages and facilitate things.

At this time, however, he became the deputy head of the finance department, a potential rival who could decentralize power, supervise, or even replace him.

This change in identity forced all past interactions to be re-evaluated.

The change in identity meant that the seemingly relaxed and harmonious atmosphere of the past could no longer be maintained.

Wen Yongze was well aware of the underlying turmoil and calculations, but he had no intention of getting involved.

To some extent, Yang Guangming and Liu Jinsheng were both part of his small circle, and he had no intention of favoring either side.

His task at this moment was simple: to complete the procedures for the new cadre taking office, fulfill the duties of the head of the personnel department, and then he could leave and return to his office.

He raised his hand to look at his watch, seemingly concerned about the time.

The two tightly closed doors were clearly not meant to truly shut out the outside world. More of a gesture, an attitude shown to the subordinates in the department, implying their disapproval of the appointment and reminding them of the delicate situation they needed to carefully consider when choosing sides.

This silent expression is more powerful than any words.

Hearing Wen Yongze's clear voice now, continuing to hide would be far too impolite and deliberate. All eyes in the office were fixed on the two wooden doors, awaiting further developments.

Before anyone in the office could even get up and knock, the outer door, bearing the sign "Deputy Section Chief," creaked open. The door seemed slightly warped, making a slight scraping sound as it opened. The opening speed was measured and deliberate.

Yin Yongliang came out from inside.

He was about forty years old, thin, and wearing a slightly worn dark blue short-sleeved shirt with the top button fastened tightly.

He wore black-rimmed glasses, and the look behind the lenses was somewhat serious, even rigid. His face was expressionless, and his lips were pressed into a straight line.

His hair was neatly combed, but noticeable gray hairs were already visible mixed in.

After he came out, he simply nodded slightly in Wen Yongze's direction, his gaze sweeping over Yang Guangming without any further expression, as if he were looking at an ordinary piece of office furniture.

Immediately afterwards, the door to another "section chief's" office opened. Liu Jinsheng walked out with a smile.

He stands in stark contrast to Yin Yongliang.

Also in his forties, he was slightly overweight, with a round face and some thinning hair on top, which he combed meticulously.

He was wearing a white polyester short-sleeved shirt, the sleeves neatly rolled up to his elbows, revealing his rounded forearms. A friendly smile graced his face as he waved to Wen Yongze from afar.

"Section Chief Wen, thank you for personally bringing them here."

His voice was loud and clear, carrying his usual enthusiasm. His gaze then fell on Yang Guangming, and his smile seemed even more genuine, as if it came from the bottom of his heart.

"Comrade Guangming, welcome, welcome! We've been looking forward to your arrival to bring fresh blood to our finance department!"

He stepped forward to greet him, appearing very enthusiastic.

Wen Yongze also wore a formulaic smile. Although he knew that both sides might have their own thoughts, he had to put on a good show.

He seemed completely oblivious to the slight delay and subtle atmosphere, and formally introduced the two parties, even though they already knew each other.

His smile was just right, both friendly and authoritative.

"Section Chief Liu, Deputy Section Chief Yin, this is Comrade Yang Guangming, the new deputy section chief appointed by the factory's Party Committee to your Finance Section."

He gestured and then turned to Yang Guangming, "Comrade Guangming, this is Liu Jinsheng, the head of the finance department, and this is Yin Yongliang, the deputy head. From now on, you will be comrades-in-arms working side by side."

His choice of words was precise, his tone was steady, and his gaze moved among the three people, ensuring that everyone felt valued.

Yang Guangming stepped forward, his posture neither humble nor arrogant, with a moderate and appropriate smile on his face, and extended his hand to Liu Jinsheng first.

"Section Chief Liu, I will be working under your leadership from now on. Please provide guidance and criticism."

His tone was sincere, his wording appropriate, and the angle at which he extended his hand was just right, showing respect without losing his dignity.

Liu Jinsheng immediately stretched out his chubby right hand and shook Yang Guangming's hand tightly, giving it a warm shake.

His grip was strong. "Oh, Comrade Guangming, you're too kind! Let's learn from each other! You're young and promising, with a quick mind; you bring a fresh perspective to our department!"

Liu Jinsheng's smile was incredibly natural, and his words were very considerate, as if he were genuinely welcoming him.

Then, Yang Guangming turned to Yin Yongliang, who was standing to the side, and also extended his hand.

"Hello, Deputy Section Chief Yin. I look forward to your guidance in my future work." He looked calmly at Yin Yongliang, his tone gentle.

Yin Yongliang's reaction was much more subdued.

He reached out and briefly touched Yang Guangming's hand before quickly withdrawing it, only letting out a muffled "hmm" sound from his nose as a response.

His face remained expressionless, and his gaze behind his glasses didn't even linger on Yang Guangming's face, appearing quite indifferent.

His and Liu Jinsheng's two completely different attitudes, when observed by everyone in the office who were quietly watching the situation, naturally carried different meanings.

Some exchanged meaningful glances, while others lowered their heads to hide their expressions. A young female clerk couldn't help but cover her mouth with her hand, while another young man raised an eyebrow.

Wen Yongze took all of this in and understood.

Liu Jinsheng was indeed still the same smiling tiger, his public persona was impeccable, and no matter what he was thinking, he would never let anyone easily find fault with him.

Yin Yongliang, on the other hand, wore his unwelcome expression on his face. While this might seem petty, it was consistent with his serious, rigid, and unpretentious personality.

Wen Yongze's lips curled up slightly, revealing a barely perceptible smile.

Wen Yongze had already completed his task and could have taken his leave to return to the personnel department. However, after a moment's thought, he decided to make the process even more perfect.

This wasn't because he preferred Yang Guangming, but rather out of caution.

He didn't want the new factory director, Zhao Guodong, to feel that he, as the head of the personnel department, was not thorough enough and that the new director was disrespecting the people he had assigned.

He wanted to avoid even the slightest possibility.

Thinking of all this, he smiled and suggested to Liu Jinsheng, "Section Chief Liu, you see, Comrade Guangming is new here, shouldn't we let the other colleagues in the section get to know him as well?"
Let's put our work aside for a moment and go to the small conference room on the third floor. Shall we have a simple welcome party?

This also allows Comrade Guangming to meet everyone and get to know each other initially.

His wording was very appropriate; he offered suggestions while respecting Liu Jinsheng's authority as the head of the department.

This proposal is reasonable and falls under the standard procedure for new cadres taking office.

Liu Jinsheng's smile remained unchanged. What he was thinking was unknown to outsiders, but he readily agreed.

"Of course, of course! Section Chief Wen is very thoughtful. I'll arrange it right away." His reaction was quick and without the slightest hesitation.

He turned around, clapped his hands in front of the large office, and his voice was still loud and clear:
"Everyone, please take note. Put aside your work for now. Everyone, please gather in the small conference room on the third floor for a short meeting to welcome our new deputy section chief, Yang Guangming."

His instructions were clear and unambiguous, his gaze sweeping across the room to ensure everyone could hear him.

Upon hearing this, the staff members put down their abacuses and pens, stood up, and began to talk in hushed tones as they walked out of the large office and down the corridor toward the stairwell.

Some people casually took the account book with them, while others carefully covered the ink bottle.

Footsteps, the sound of chairs moving, and whispers mingled together, breaking the silence of the office.

Liu Jinsheng smiled and gestured for Wen Yongze and Yang Guangming to join him. "Section Chief Wen, Guangming, let's go over there too."

He kept a low profile, showing great respect, and the arc of his outstretched arms was just right, conveying both enthusiasm and dignity.

Yin Yongliang followed silently beside him, his face still expressionless. His footsteps were heavy, making a dull thud on the wooden stairs.

The small conference room on the third floor is not large, with a long conference table and a dozen or so wooden chairs around it.

More than twenty people from the finance department came in one after another, and soon filled all the seats. Those who came later had to stand against the wall.

The windows were open, but the September weather was still muggy, and with so many people in the room, the air felt somewhat stuffy.

Wen Yongze was naturally the host of the meeting.

He stood at one end of the conference table, his hands resting slightly on the surface, his gaze sweeping around.

Once everyone had quieted down, he got straight to the point and briefly explained the purpose of the meeting:
"We've called this short meeting today to welcome Comrade Yang Guangming to our finance department as deputy section chief."

His voice was steady, with the clear tone characteristic of a personnel officer. He didn't use many gestures while speaking, but each movement was precise.

Next, as is customary, he briefly introduced Yang Guangming's resume.

The fact that Yang Guangming's time in the factory was short is an objective fact that cannot be ignored.

However, Wen Yongze cleverly focused on the honors and contributions that Yang Guangming had made.

"Although Comrade Guangming is young and has not been working for long, he has performed outstandingly and achieved remarkable results."

He mentioned that Yang Guangming's articles published in the Workers' Daily and the Shanghai Daily brought honor to the factory.

His performance in the recent warehouse arson incident was mentioned.

The emphasis was on the fact that he was recognized as an outstanding party member at the factory level this year.

These are all genuine honors, and presenting them is enough to convince people and dispel any doubts that might arise from a lack of seniority.

Wen Yongze's choice of words is neutral and objective, but the bias in his words is still faintly discernible.

The finance department staff sitting below listened quietly.

They had mostly heard about these deeds before, but now that Wen Yongze was recounting them in detail, their feelings were somewhat different.

The younger ones couldn't help but look on with envy and admiration. The older ones were mostly silent, their faces revealing little emotion. Some were jotting something down in their notebooks, while others watched Wen Yongze intently, listening attentively.

After the introduction, Wen Yongze led the applause, and a round of enthusiastic applause immediately filled the conference room.

Regardless of what one thinks in their heart, one must maintain a certain attitude on the surface. The applause lasted for more than ten seconds before gradually subsiding at Wen Yongze's gesture.

After the applause, there was a brief silence in the conference room.

After the applause subsided, Wen Yongze looked at Liu Jinsheng. "Next, please welcome our Finance Department Chief, Comrade Liu Jinsheng, to say a few words."

Liu Jinsheng stood up with a smile, first nodding to Wen Yongze, then facing the crowd, and finally fixing his gaze on Yang Guangming with a beaming smile.

"First of all, on behalf of all my colleagues in the Finance Department, I warmly welcome Comrade Guangming!"

He then led the applause with two claps; his large hands made a loud sound when he clapped. Following his action, a round of applause rang out from below.

"Comrade Guangming is young, promising, and has outstanding abilities, which is known to everyone."

The factory's Party Committee's decision to assign Comrade Guangming to strengthen the leadership of our finance department demonstrates their attention to and concern for our financial work.

His words were very official and there was nothing wrong with them.

"I believe that Comrade Guangming's joining will definitely bring new vitality and new ideas to our department."

I hope that my colleagues in the department will actively support and cooperate with Comrade Guangming's work in the future.

Let's all work together to make our finance department even better!

His speech was brief, enthusiastic, and entirely a standard welcoming address.

After he finished speaking, he clapped again, and the audience followed suit.

His gaze swept across the room, seemingly observing everyone's reaction. Amid applause, he slowly sat down, his movements composed and unhurried.

Wen Yongze nodded, then turned his gaze to Yin Yongliang, "Deputy Section Chief Yin, why don't you say a few words?"

Yin Yongliang seemed reluctant as he slowly stood up.

He pushed up his glasses, his gaze swept over everyone, and finally settled briefly on a spot on the table, seemingly reluctant to make eye contact.

His voice was flat, even somewhat dry, "Welcome, Comrade Yang Guangming."

These few simple words are almost devoid of any emotional color.

He paused for a moment, as if trying to think of something else to say, and then added, "I hope we can work together smoothly in the future."

After saying that, he sat down without saying another word.

The atmosphere in the meeting room became somewhat subtle because of these two contrasting statements.

The stark contrast between Liu Jinsheng's enthusiasm and thoughtfulness and Yin Yongliang's cold indifference was striking.

Some people shifted uncomfortably, while others lowered their heads to hide their expressions. Even the most oblivious person could tell that the relationship between the three leaders seemed a bit tense.

Wen Yongze's brows furrowed almost imperceptibly once more.

He felt that Yin Yongliang's behavior was rather petty and even disrespectful to him, the head of the personnel department, as he didn't even bother to put on a good show.

He tapped his fingers lightly twice on the table, subtly expressing his dissatisfaction.

Wen Yongze coughed lightly, breaking the brief awkward silence. A smile returned to his face as he looked at Yang Guangming, "Now, let's invite today's protagonist, Comrade Yang Guangming, to say a few words."

At this moment, all eyes in the conference room once again focused on Yang Guangming.

Curiosity, scrutiny, anticipation, observation... all sorts of emotions intertwine silently.

Liu Jinsheng still wore a warm smile, but deep in his eyes was a subtle, almost imperceptible assessment.

Yin Yongliang lowered his eyelids, looking at his hands on the table, seemingly uninterested in his upcoming speech.

Yang Guangming slowly stood up. His movements were steady, showing no sign of panic.

After standing still, he did not speak immediately, but slowly and carefully scanned everyone present with his eyes.

His eyes were calm and clear, yet they possessed a quiet strength beyond his years.

Those whose gaze swept over him unconsciously straightened their posture slightly.

"Section Chief Wen, Section Chief Liu, Deputy Section Chief Yin, and fellow colleagues from the Finance Department, good afternoon."

His voice rang out, clear and steady, not loud, but clearly reaching everyone's ears.

His Mandarin is very standard, with a slight southern accent, but it's not obvious.

"First of all, I would like to thank the factory's Party Committee and leaders for their trust in appointing me as the deputy head of the Finance Department. Thank you, Section Chief Wen, for your introduction, and thank you, Section Chief Liu, for your welcome."

His opening remarks were humble and appropriate, his gaze sweeping steadily across the room, making brief eye contact with a few people.

"Financial work is an important part of factory management, which is related to the normal operation of the factory's production and life, and the rational use of every penny of national assets."

The responsibility is great, the mission is glorious!

His tone gradually rose as he got to the point, and his words naturally carried a higher level of perspective and theoretical depth.

"Currently, the whole country is actively responding to the call to seize opportunities and promote production."

As a key state-owned enterprise, our Hongxing State-owned Cotton Mill must take the lead.

Financial work involves more than just traditional bookkeeping, accounting, and reporting; it must also serve the overall goal of production!

He used common political terms, but combined them with the realities of financial work, so they didn't sound empty.

His words carried the enthusiasm unique to young people, but without being overly impulsive.

"We must proactively provide timely, accurate, and effective financial support and analysis for technological innovation, equipment upgrades, and efficiency improvements in production."

We must be bold enough to break some outdated rules and regulations, but we cannot violate the fundamental principle of financial discipline.

These words sounded like generalities, but to those who were paying attention, they seemed to be a subtle response to Director Zhao Guodong's criticism of the finance department for being "too conservative and slow."

Yang Guangming's gaze swept over Liu Jinsheng almost imperceptibly before moving away.

Liu Jinsheng's smile seemed to stiffen slightly for a moment, but it quickly returned to normal.

His fingers unconsciously traced circles on the table. Yin Yongliang kept his head down, his fingers tapping lightly on the table, revealing his inner turmoil.

The air in the meeting room seemed to grow even heavier.

"I personally lack practical experience in financial work, which is my weakness."

Yang Guangming changed the subject, frankly admitting his shortcomings, but then his tone became firm.

"But I believe that, under the correct guidance of the factory leaders, with the help of Section Chief Liu and Deputy Section Chief Yin, and with the support of all the experienced colleagues, and through my own hard work and learning, I will be able to quickly become familiar with the business, get into the role, and fulfill my responsibilities."

His gaze swept across the room again, his eyes sharpening and his tone becoming slightly more forceful.

His posture remained upright, but his shoulders were slightly tilted forward, displaying a strong determination.

"I would also like to make a statement here."

As the deputy head of the finance department, I will be dedicated to my duties, adhere to principles, and strictly implement the country's financial policies and the factory's rules and regulations.

Regarding work, I will humbly learn, but I will also be willing to take responsibility for anything within my scope of duties and will never shirk my duties.

His words were clear, carrying a strength that was both gentle and firm.

"I hope to receive everyone's frank communication and full support in future work."

If we have different opinions on certain tasks, I hope they are based on the task itself, on how to better complete the tasks assigned to us by the factory, and on how to more effectively serve the production line.

If that's the case, we can discuss it, even debate it, but ultimately, we must unite and, while implementing the factory leadership's decisions, successfully complete all the tasks assigned to the finance department.

His concluding remarks were powerful yet measured, stating his position while leaving room for maneuver. He deliberately emphasized the phrase "under the premise of implementing the Party's leadership resolution."

After he finished speaking, his gaze finally settled on Liu Jinsheng's face, and he nodded slightly in acknowledgment.

This speech was well-organized and clearly structured. It demonstrated both humility and a firm stance, showcasing both a high level of theoretical understanding and practical application.

More importantly, his seemingly calm words clearly conveyed a strong signal that he would actively perform his duties, adhere to principles, and even be willing to "argue".

This doesn't seem like the demeanor of a young cadre who's just arrived and trying to integrate into a new environment; rather, it seems like the attitude of a pioneer who's already prepared to make a difference.

A needle hidden in cotton!

A glimpse of its brilliance!

There was silence in the conference room.

Everyone sensed the powerful confidence beneath the calm exterior of the new deputy section chief.

Upon hearing these words, everyone couldn't help but think that Zhao Guodong was standing behind him. For this young deputy section chief, the support from Director Zhao was clearly the greatest source of his confidence.

Some nodded thoughtfully, while others looked worried. The sunlight outside the window seemed even brighter, illuminating everyone's expressions clearly.

A few seconds later, Liu Jinsheng was the first to applaud, his smile unchanged.

"Well said! Comrade Guangming has a profound understanding and a very correct attitude! Let's give him a round of applause!"

Led by his words, applause rang out again in the conference room.

This time, the applause was even more enthusiastic, and people's expressions seemed to show more seriousness and contemplation than before.

The initial disdain and curiosity in many of the gazes directed at Yang Guangming have diminished, replaced by scrutiny and consideration.

Everyone could see that this young man was talented; most people could have guessed that, after all, Yang Guangming had already published several articles in a major national newspaper, something that most people couldn't do.

What was most surprising was his slightly revealed, but just-right, sharpness.

It has a sharp edge, but it's not shrewd!

It conveyed an attitude without offending anyone.

His tough stance was clearly revealed in his seemingly tactful but actually barbed remarks, making it clear that this young man was no ordinary person!

The applause lasted longer than last time, showing greater respect and sincerity.

A hint of admiration flashed in Wen Yongze's eyes.

He hadn't expected Yang Guangming to respond so appropriately and powerfully in such a short time.

This speech was perfectly measured, showing full respect for the existing leadership while clearly establishing his own presence and principles, instantly building his image.

Liu Jinsheng clapped and nodded with a smile, but the bitterness and wariness in his heart were probably only known to himself.

He had indeed gotten along well with Yang Guangming before, and even admired the young man to some extent.

If possible, he would prefer to maintain that harmonious relationship with Yang Guangming rather than be forced to stand on a delicate opposing side as he is now.

But he had no choice! He could only go down this path to the bitter end!
When Director Dou was in office, in order to check him and for his own safety, he chose to align himself with Secretary Tian.

Now that Zhao Guodong has taken office with great force, he cannot easily switch sides; doing so would be too risky and he might not be accepted.

He could only rely on Secretary Tian, ​​hoping that Secretary Tian could withstand the pressure from Zhao Guodong and keep his position.

His smile remained on his face, but his mood was somewhat heavy.

Yin Yongliang also clapped, but his movements were somewhat mechanical.

His expression was even more serious than before, and his thin lips were pressed even tighter.

The stronger Yang Guangming's abilities and the better his performance, the greater the threat he poses!
For many years, the organizational structure of the Finance Department of Hongxing State-owned Cotton Mill has been that one department head is paired with one deputy department head.

The addition of a deputy section chief is hardly a normal arrangement. The underlying implications of this adjustment are self-evident.

The three heads of the finance department will not remain a permanent position; eventually, one of them will inevitably be transferred, or...

His applause was very soft, almost inaudible, and stopped quickly, but his thoughts continued to wander.

If one of these three people has to leave in the end, then Yin Yongliang is clearly in the most dangerous situation.

Liu Jinsheng had the support of Secretary Tian, ​​and Yang Guangming had the backing of Director Zhao. Only he had no one above him, relying solely on his professional skills accumulated through years of hard work and his meticulous work attitude.

He couldn't possibly challenge Liu Jinsheng's position as section chief, so the only way out was to find out Liu's mistakes as soon as possible in his area of ​​expertise, while Yang Guangming was still establishing himself and unfamiliar with the business, and even set a trap for him to make a mistake.

If handled properly, there may be a chance to eliminate this biggest threat.

Although it was difficult, Yin Yongliang was confident in his professional abilities and had a deep understanding of the complexity and risks of financial work.

A novice, especially one eager to prove themselves, is likely to make mistakes in highly specialized areas such as financial statements, fund approval, and accounting.

We must act quickly. The longer we delay, the less likely Yang Guangming will be to succeed as he becomes more familiar with the business and establishes his authority.

After Yang Guangming finished speaking, he calmly sat down.

His posture was relaxed but not lax, his smile was gentle, and his gaze was calmly fixed on the front.

Wen Yongze felt that the desired effect had been achieved, so he gave a brief summary and adjourned the meeting.

Everyone stood up, the sound of chairs moving filled the room, and they walked out of the conference room talking in hushed tones.

Some people curiously glanced back at Yang Guangming, while others hurriedly left, seemingly unwilling to get involved in the delicate situation that was about to unfold.

Footsteps, whispers, and the clatter of chairs mingled together, breaking the silence of the conference room.

Wen Yongze smiled and shook hands with Liu Jinsheng and Yang Guangming. "Alright, my mission is complete. Section Chief Liu, Comrade Guangming, it's up to you two from now on."

He glanced at Yin Yongliang, who stood expressionless beside him, nodded, and then turned and left.

Watching Wen Yongze's figure disappear at the stairwell, Yin Yongliang turned around and said stiffly to Liu Jinsheng, "Section Chief, if there's nothing else, I'll go back to my office first."

He didn't even glance at Yang Guangming, as if the man didn't exist. After speaking, he turned around and walked straight towards the finance department on the second floor.

His back was stiff, and his steps were quick, revealing the heaviness and urgency in his heart.

His strong aversion to Yang Guangming was completely undisguised.

Several clerks who were walking at the back saw this scene, exchanged meaningful glances, and then hurriedly lowered their heads and left.

Their footsteps sounded somewhat hurried, as if they didn't want to be drawn into the impending covert battle.

Liu Jinsheng watched Yin Yongliang's departing figure, shook his head, and a helpless smile appeared on his face, as if he were looking at an ignorant subordinate.

He turned around, facing the bright sunlight, and his smile immediately became warm and friendly again, instantly regaining the casualness and familiarity he used to have when gathering in his small circle.

"That old Yin, that's just his temper. He always has a long face, like everyone owes him money. Guangming, don't take it to heart."

He patted Yang Guangming's arm affectionately, the gesture as natural as if he were treating his own nephew or niece.

"Come on, back to the office. I'll set up a desk for you. From now on, we'll be working together in the same boat. Don't hesitate to contact me if you need anything!"

He appeared sincere and enthusiastic, as if the subtle exchange and Yin Yongliang's blatant rejection at the meeting had never existed.

The words conveyed the care of an elder for a younger person, but without sounding overly affected.

When he laughed, his eyes narrowed into slits, but his gaze never left Yang Guangming's face, as if he were carefully observing his reaction.

The two walked side by side down the corridor toward the Finance Department office on the second floor.

Liu Jinsheng walked at a leisurely pace, occasionally turning his head to talk to Yang Guangming, appearing quite harmonious.

Yang Guangming listened attentively, occasionally nodding in response, his attitude respectful yet measured.

Their shadows were cast on the walls of the corridor, changing shape as they moved.

When they returned to the Finance Department office, most of the staff had already gone back to their posts. The sound of abacuses rang out again, but it seemed to have lost some of its rhythm.

Upon seeing the two leaders enter, someone glanced up, then quickly lowered their head again.

A subtle tension hung in the air, like the calm before a storm.

(End of this chapter)