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

At the end of August, the sweltering heat of Shanghai still raged in every corner of the city.

The asphalt road was softened by the sun, and the air seemed to solidify, making it hard to breathe.

However, a slight chill can already be felt in the mornings and evenings, quietly blowing from the Huangpu River, indicating that the lingering heat of late summer is about to dissipate.

Yang Guangming walked leisurely into the familiar alleyway.

It was rush hour, and the alleyway was even noisier and more crowded than usual.

He habitually walked towards the direction of his own Shikumen house. Before he even reached the familiar black lacquered gate, an unusually loud chorus of exclamations, laughter, and chatter erupted from the courtyard, breaking the dull atmosphere of the alleyway in the evening.

Yang Guangming stopped in his tracks, somewhat surprised.

The commotion... didn't seem like a casual quarrel or chatter between one or two families; it was more like all the neighbors in the courtyard had gathered together, as if some great joy was happening.

He quickened his pace and reached out to push open the half-open black lacquered door.

The scene inside the door startled him slightly.

The courtyard, which is usually a bit cramped, was now bustling with people.

Neighbors, including Granny Chen, Mrs. Feng, He Caiyun, and even the young couple from the rooftop who rarely show their faces, all gathered here, their faces beaming with smiles, their eyes fixed on the center of the crowd.

Surrounded by the crowd was a familiar figure, dressed simply but with a more upright and robust physique than he remembered—Chen Weihong!

Chen Weihong is back? Yang Guangming was even more surprised.

Chen Weihong has been working in the countryside for four years and has never returned. After all, the journey is long and the travel expenses are expensive, which most people cannot afford.

Why did they suddenly come back this time? And judging from the way they've come, with all the neighbors coming out, it's definitely not just a simple family visit.

Chen Weihong clearly also saw the bright sunlight as soon as she entered.

She was listening with a smile to the neighbors' greetings and praises, her face showing a calmness that comes from weathering the storms of life, and an almost imperceptible, heartfelt joy.

At that moment, her eyes lit up, and she immediately stood up from the small bamboo chair she was sitting on, pushed through the crowd, and quickly came forward to greet them.

Chen Weihong has indeed changed a lot in the few years since we last met.

His skin had darkened considerably, a healthy tan from long hours of outdoor work. His once slender frame seemed more robust, and his cheeks now had a natural rosy glow, no longer the thin, pale look he once had.

That signature jet-black, glossy braid still hung neatly down her chest, but the ends were no longer dry and split like before; instead, they shone with a healthy sheen.

She was wearing a light gray plaid shirt that was almost new, faded from washing but clean and tidy, and dark blue trousers with slightly frayed knees. On her feet were a pair of worn-out canvas shoes.

Although her clothes were still simple, even bearing the obvious marks of a sent-down youth, she was full of energy and spirit, with bright and firm eyes, exuding a tenacity. She was no longer the timid girl who silently washed clothes in the courtyard with a bewildered and helpless look in her eyes.

"Brother Guangming!" Chen Weihong's voice was much clearer, with a hint of barely perceptible excitement, and her tone was more cheerful and generous than before, "You're back from get off work?"

"Wei Hong, I didn't even hear you were coming back." Yang Guangming's face showed genuine surprise. "When did you get back? Why didn't you tell me beforehand? It's all so lively, is there some happy occasion?"

He fired off a series of questions, his gaze sweeping over the smiling faces of the neighbors around him, finally settling on Chen Weihong with an inquiring look.

Chen Weihong smiled shyly, but before she could answer, her mother, Zhang Xiuying, couldn't contain her joy and pride. She eagerly began to tell the story, her voice loud and clear, as if the glory were her own:
"Guangming! You don't know yet, do you? Our Weihong is so successful! It's fantastic news! She got into university! Now she's a worker-peasant-soldier student! She even received her acceptance letter from Shanghai University of Technology! She just got home this morning!"

Zhang Xiuying's wrinkles smiled like blooming chrysanthemums, each fold radiating brilliance.

"A college student?" Yang Guangming was genuinely surprised; this good news was completely unexpected.

Immediately, a feeling of heartfelt relief and joy welled up inside me.

He carefully examined Chen Weihong and quickly noticed a detail: in her hands, which were rough from hard work, she was tightly clutching the corner of a kraft paper envelope, on which the red name of the university and the words "Admission Notice" were faintly visible.

"Really? Wei Hong! Congratulations! That's wonderful!" Yang Guangming's voice was full of sincere congratulations. "This is the best way out! No wonder everyone is so happy!"

He couldn't help but recall that morning before Chen Weihong went to the countryside. She stood in the damp courtyard, as thin as a reed swaying in the wind, her eyes empty and desperate.

The five catties of national grain coupons and two catties of walnut kernels that I secretly gave her were just a drop in the ocean, and I only hoped that they could help her get through the most difficult time at the beginning.

Unexpectedly, four years later, this seemingly frail girl has, through her perseverance, forged a path that is remarkable and capable of changing her destiny.

Chen Weihong blushed slightly at Yang Guangming's praise, her eyes sparkling with gratitude: "Thank you, Brother Guangming! And thank you too... thank you for what you did back then..."

She paused, seemingly choked up, but quickly regained her composure, her voice clear and sincere, "When I first arrived in the countryside, I was unfamiliar with the place and the farm work was heavy. I was often so hungry that my stomach was practically sticking to my back."

The bag of walnuts you gave me, and...and those food coupons, they were such a huge help! They got me through the toughest first few months. I'll always remember that kindness.

Her words were sincere, her gaze fixed on the bright sunlight. She did not shy away from those difficult years, nor did she exaggerate the suffering. She simply stated the facts calmly and expressed her long-held gratitude.

Yang Guangming waved his hand dismissively, his tone relaxed: "Hey, that's all in the past, why bring it up again? The main thing is that you did your best! To persevere in that kind of environment and still get into university, that's really not easy! It's truly remarkable!"

He admired it sincerely.

The number of places for worker-peasant-soldier university students was extremely precious, and the intensity of the recommendation and competition can be imagined. Chen Weihong, a female educated youth, was able to stand out in a remote place, and the hardships and efforts she made cannot be summarized in a few words.

The neighbors chimed in, praising it all at once.

"Wei Hong is a sensible and hardworking child!"

"Yes, it was so tough being sent to the countryside. She persevered and even got into university. She really brought honor to our neighborhood!"

"These are students from an industrial university! They'll be engineers after graduation, the nation's talents! They're extraordinary!"

Chen Weihong's father, Chen Le'an, wearing a dark blue work uniform that seemed perpetually stained with oil, stood behind his daughter, his dark face beaming with a simple yet undisguised smile of pride.

He rubbed his calloused hands together, nodding excitedly. His lips moved a few times, but he couldn't utter a complete sentence. However, the wide smile and the moisture in his eyes said it all.

Grandma Chen, carefully supported by her granddaughter-in-law Zhang Chunfang, beamed from ear to ear, tears welling in her cloudy old eyes as she repeatedly murmured, "Good, good, good... Our family... Our family has produced a college student... May our ancestors bless us..."

The courtyard was filled with a simple yet proud and festive atmosphere, as if Chen Weihong's success was also the glory of the entire alley.

Yang Guangming pulled Chen Weihong to sit down again, then found a small stool and sat down next to her, asking with great interest, "Tell us quickly, what exactly happened? We heard that this spot is extremely difficult to get, how did you manage to secure it?"

This was a question that all the neighbors were concerned about. Everyone immediately quieted down and focused their attention on Chen Weihong. Even He Caiyun, who was looking out of her kitchen door, perked up her ears.

Chen Weihong smoothed the stray hairs damp with sweat from her forehead and began to speak calmly, her tone unhurried and measured, without complaint or exaggerated embellishment, as if she were recounting someone else's ordinary event:
"Actually, there's nothing special about it. It's just that after I got there, I thought that since I was there, I had to work hard and not be afraid of hardship or fatigue, so as not to embarrass my family or our fellow Shanghai educated youth."

"The village where we were sent to work in the countryside was located in a remote mountain valley in Yunnan. It was a large village with more than 2,000 people, which was considered one of the larger villages in the area. It was the largest village in our commune. The conditions were indeed very harsh. When I first arrived, I didn't know how to do any farm work. I couldn't even hold a hoe properly, which made me look foolish. My hands and feet were covered in blisters, and I couldn't sleep at night because of the pain."

"Later, I gradually learned from the villagers, and worked together, turning the soil, weeding, chopping firewood, feeding pigs, and doing all kinds of work."

During the busy farming season, we had to get up before dawn and work until it was completely dark before we could finish. When we got back to the educated youth settlement, we were so tired that we didn't even want to talk. We could just fall asleep on the bed made of wooden planks.

The food was poor; it was often just corn porridge with a little bit of pickled vegetable bits, barely a speck of oil, and my stomach always felt empty.

The neighbors listened intently, their faces showing sympathy and emotion.

Although no one has experienced it firsthand, they have all heard about the hardships faced by educated youth sent to the countryside.

"Then... have you ever thought about giving up? Or complained about the unfairness of fate?" Mrs. Feng asked softly, her eyes filled with the pity that comes with being an elder.

Chen Weihong gently shook her head, a faint, almost bitter smile appearing on her lips: "How could I not have thought about it? I've secretly cried, and I've felt lost, wondering when this kind of life would end."

Especially when I receive letters from home, hearing that someone in the alley has taken over a factory job, or that someone else has found a way to stay in the city, I feel even worse, like the contrast is too great.

"but."

She changed the subject, her eyes becoming firm. "Look at the villagers in the village. They have lived like this for generations. They go to work in the fields when the sun rises and return home when the sun sets. They work hard all year round, but they may not be able to eat a few full meals or buy a new set of clothes without patches."

Compared to them, we educated youth suffered, but at least we had hope, hoping that one day the policy might change and we could return to the city.

Thinking about it this way, I gradually felt more at peace, and even felt that compared to them, we were actually quite lucky.

Her words were simple and unadorned, yet they revealed a tenacious spirit of never giving up and a rare open-mindedness.

"Later, I figured it out. Since the times have pushed us there, complaining is useless. Since we're here, we have to do our best and not let people look down on us or say that girls from Shanghai are spoiled."

I'm not afraid of putting in the effort; I always take the lead in whatever task I'm assigned. I'm also willing to use my brain to learn how to work more efficiently and effectively.

Gradually, I became familiar with the villagers. They all said that this girl from Shanghai was not spoiled, could endure hardship, and had a kind heart.

At this point, Chen Weihong's eyes welled up with tears.

Yang Guangming understood her feelings at that moment. Although she spoke plainly, she was a city girl who had earned the respect of her fellow villagers. He wondered how much hardship she had endured behind the scenes.

Chen Weihong continued, "Later, the commune began to have quotas for worker-peasant-soldier college students. Our village was large and had a lot of labor, so we had some influence in the production commune and were able to get a quota almost every year."

Last year's quota was given to a local young man from the village who performed exceptionally well.

This year, there's a new directive from above, saying that we should give due consideration to educated youth, and the village should prioritize educated youth for this year's quota.

In the village, there were only two other male educated youths from the north, and both of us performed exceptionally well in various aspects, meeting the recommendation criteria.

Hearing this, everyone held their breath, knowing that the story had reached its most crucial point.

"That male educated youth was from Hebei. He was very hardworking and generous. He was just as good as me."

To be honest, I wasn't sure at the time, and I felt the chances were slim. I was prepared to continue working in the countryside.

Chen Weihong paused, seemingly recalling the nervousness she felt while waiting for the results. "Later, the brigade and commune organized an evaluation, and both of our performances were affirmed. It was fair to say that we were neck and neck. But when it came time to decide the final number, that male educated youth... he voluntarily gave up."

"Give up? Why?" Zhang Xiuying couldn't help but interject, her face full of confusion.

"Because there are new regulations this year."

Chen Weihong explained, "A recommendation from the production team alone is not enough. Those who are recommended must also take a unified cultural exam organized by the county. Only those who pass the exam will be admitted."

That male educated youth... came from an even more difficult family. He had only graduated from junior high school, had a poor foundation, and didn't do well in school. He was afraid that he wouldn't pass the exam, wasting such a precious spot and bringing shame to himself and the village.

He considered it for a long time, and finally took the initiative to go to the village secretary, saying that he would give me this year's opportunity, explaining that my academic foundation was better than his and that I had a better chance of passing the exam.

A sigh rose from the courtyard.

Some people felt sorry for the male educated youth, while many more felt fortunate for Chen Weihong, thinking she was really lucky.

"So, Wei Hong, you really did have an element of luck involved." Yang Guangming nodded, understanding in his heart.

In such a fiercely competitive environment, to ultimately win, one needs both personal hard work and luck at crucial moments.

“Yes,” Chen Weihong admitted frankly. “If that male educated youth hadn’t given up, I might not have gotten the spot. So I’ve always been very grateful to him and felt like I owed him a huge favor.”

"So... the background check and everything must have gone smoothly, right?" Yang Guangming asked another crucial question. In this day and age, family background is a major hurdle, keeping countless people out.

Chen Weihong smiled and said confidently, "Yes, everything went smoothly. Our family is classified as workers, with a clean record and no history issues, so the political review went very smoothly."

She spoke these words not only to Yang Guangming, but also to all the neighbors present, and even more so to her family who had been worried sick.

At this moment, Chen Le'an, who had been silent all along, his eyes filled with anticipation and a hint of trepidation, finally couldn't help but speak, his voice tentative and cautious:
"Wei Hong... what about your second brother, Guo Hua? Is he... is he having any opportunities over there?"

The moment those words were asked, the atmosphere in the courtyard quieted down a little.

Everyone looked at Chen Weihong, waiting for her answer, while secretly sighing at Chen Le'an's untimely expectation.

Chen Weihong was silent for a moment, then sighed softly, her tone tactful but realistic; she didn't want to give her father unrealistic hopes.
"Dad, there's always a chance... in theory. But... it's too difficult."

Our commune has more than a dozen villages, with tens of thousands of local young people of school age and educated youth, but there are only two or three slots available throughout the year.

The educated youth were already at a disadvantage; if it weren't for policies from above, they would have had a hard time competing with the native locals.

My brother... he used to be just average in the village, not particularly outstanding.

Now everyone knows that going to university is the best way out, so there are even more people vying for it than before, and the competition is much fiercer than ever...

She didn't say everything, but the meaning was clear. Chen Guohua's chances of getting a recommendation were extremely slim, almost impossible.

The spark of hope for his son that had just been ignited in Chen Le'an's eyes because of his daughter's success instantly dimmed.

He lowered his head deeply, took a deep drag on the cheap cigarette in his hand, and in the swirling smoke, his face, etched with wrinkles by the weight of life, looked even older and more helpless.

He knew perfectly well that this was wishful thinking, but as a father, he always held onto a sliver of hope.

Seeing this, Granny Chen quickly changed the subject, asking in a trembling voice, trying to steer the conversation away from the somewhat heavy topic: "Wei Hong, how many years does it take to go to university? After graduation, will you be assigned to work back in Shanghai?"

Chen Weihong held her grandmother's withered and cold hand and patiently explained in a gentle voice, "Grandma, university is three years long. After graduation, jobs are assigned by the state."

My household registration and grain ration certificate are still in Yunnan. According to the current policy, college graduates are generally assigned to different work units after graduation, and I will most likely be assigned back to Yunnan. Staying in Shanghai... will probably be extremely difficult.

Although they were mentally prepared, upon hearing this definitive answer, a trace of undisguised disappointment still flashed across the faces of the Chen family.

After all, returning to their hometown is the deepest desire of every educated youth sent to the countryside in Shanghai and their families.

However, becoming a college student is already a tremendous joy, a ray of light shining in the darkness. Compared to that, this regret was quickly overshadowed by the immense joy.

Being able to escape rural life and become a government official is a qualitative leap, no matter where you are.

The neighbors surrounded Chen Weihong again, asking her all sorts of questions, chatting about her experiences and anecdotes from her four years in the countryside, and about the novelty and unknowns of university. Laughter filled the small courtyard once more.

As the sun sets and the sky gradually darkens, the aroma of dinner wafts from the kitchens of each household.

As everyone lingered, they gradually dispersed, not forgetting to congratulate the Chen family again before leaving, saying auspicious things like "They'll be a national talent from now on" and "The Chen family has produced a golden phoenix." Watching the neighbors leave, Yang Guangming said to Chen Weihong, "Weihong, do you have any plans for tomorrow? If you're free, I'll invite Hutou and Yan Jun, and we'll find a place to have lunch together as a welcome-back dinner. It's been several years since the four of us old classmates have all gotten together."

Chen Weihong's eyes lit up, and a genuinely expectant smile appeared on her face: "Great! Brother Guangming, I'm free tomorrow! I also wanted to see Hutou and Yan Jun. I wonder how they are doing now, and when should we meet up?"

"Let's go at noon, around 11:30. I'll wait for you at the entrance of the alley, and we'll go together. I'll find a quiet little restaurant with decent food."

"Okay! Thank you, Brother Guangming!" Chen Weihong readily agreed, her face beaming with the joy of reunion.

"Why are you being so polite with me?" Yang Guangming smiled. "Then it's settled. You just got back, and the journey must have been tiring. Have a good meal at home and get some rest."

He greeted Chen Le'an and Granny Chen again before returning to his front building. Behind him, he could still hear the Chen family members' voices, full of barely suppressed hope.

The next day was Sunday. The sky was a clear, bright blue, and the sun shone down without any obstruction. Although the temperature was still quite high, the humidity was a bit lower, and the wind made it feel less sticky and stuffy.

It wasn't even eleven o'clock yet, and Yang Guangming had already arrived at the entrance of the alley to wait. The shade under the trees was quite cool, and as he watched the familiar figures coming and going in the alley, he pondered what dishes to order later.

Before long, Chu Dahu arrived in a flurry of activity.

He was off today, and instead of wearing his crisp security uniform, he wore a brand-new sailor shirt with blue and white stripes that made his chest appear even broader. He wore grass-green military trousers and faded white canvas shoes, which made him look even taller and more robust. He walked with a powerful stride and was full of inexhaustible energy.

"Guangming! Have you been waiting long?" Chu Dahu's voice was loud and clear; his voice arrived before he even got close.

As he approached, he habitually slapped Yang Guangming on the shoulder, the force still considerable. "Wei Hongzhen's back? And she even got into university? Wow! I never expected that! This girl is really something!"

His surprise and joy were clearly written on his face, and his eyes were full of happiness for his old classmate.

"Hmm, ask her yourself when she arrives. She's changed quite a bit." Yang Guangming smiled and dodged the second slap that might follow.

Almost simultaneously, Yan Jun also hurried over from another direction.

His years of experience working behind the counter in a grocery store have also brought about significant changes in him.

The thin, introverted boy with a melancholy air about him was gone, replaced by a young man who, though still slender, had a straight back, bright eyes, and a professional, skilled smile.

He was wearing a white polyester short-sleeved shirt, which was ironed very flat with almost no wrinkles. He wore gray polyester trousers with straight creases, and his hair was also neatly combed. He looked clean and efficient, exuding the shrewdness and straightforwardness unique to salespeople.

"Guangming, Hutou!" Yan Jun greeted him with a smile, his voice louder and more confident than before. "I'm not late, am I? I just finished taking inventory at the store this morning and rushed over."

"You're not late, just in time." Yang Guangming looked him up and down and laughed, "Yan Jun, you're quite something now, I feel like you're getting more and more talkative!"

Yan Jun scratched his head somewhat embarrassedly and laughed, "Standing behind the counter every day, dealing with all sorts of people, you can't help but develop your eloquence. I can't compare to you two, one is a manager of a big factory, and the other is a key member of the security department."

Just then, Chen Weihong arrived.

She changed into a clean, light blue floral shirt, which was also nearly new, but brighter than yesterday's gray plaid shirt. She wore the same dark blue cloth pants, her hair was neatly combed, and she had a relaxed smile on her face, looking more at ease and energetic than she had been surrounded by neighbors yesterday.

"Wei Hong!" Chu Dahu exclaimed first, looking Wei Hong up and down as if he had discovered a new continent. "Good heavens! It really is you! You've changed a lot! You're darker and more muscular, I almost didn't recognize you!"

Yan Jun smiled and nodded in agreement: "Wei Hong, congratulations! I never expected that you would be the first of the four of us to get into university! That's amazing!"

Chen Weihong felt a little embarrassed by what the two said, and her cheeks flushed: "Hutou, Yan Jun, it's been a long time. I'm still the same as before. What could have changed? It's just that you haven't seen me for too long."

Four old classmates reunited after many years. Although their circumstances had changed, the friendship they had formed in their youth remained. After a brief period of awkwardness and observation, the atmosphere quickly warmed up.

Yang Guangming led everyone through several familiar streets lined with sycamore trees to a small restaurant with a small storefront, but it looked bright, clean and tidy.

This is a place he occasionally comes to improve his meals; the food is delicious and reasonably priced.

After finding a relatively quiet spot by the window, Yang Guangming picked up the menu and, without much ceremony, ordered several main dishes: a steamed sea bass weighing over a pound; a plate of bright red braised pork; a crispy-skinned and tender scallion oil chicken; a stir-fried mushroom and bok choy; and a flavorful and hearty three-delicacy soup.

"Wow, Guangming, you're really going all out today!" Chu Dahu's eyes lit up as he looked at Yang Guangming ordering the dishes, his Adam's apple bobbing involuntarily. "So many good dishes! Looks like you're genuinely celebrating for Wei Hong!"

"It's a welcome party for Wei Hong. If it's not sincere, how could it be fake?" Yang Guangming asked with a smile.

He then said to the waiter, who was wearing a white apron and whom he was somewhat familiar with, "Four more bottles of beer, chilled, please."

"I won't drink alcohol, tea will do," Chen Weihong quickly waved her hand, as she had almost never touched alcohol.

"Beer isn't considered alcohol. It's so hot, a little ice-cold beer will quench your thirst. A little won't hurt," Yang Guangming advised.

Yan Jun also smiled and said, "Yes, Wei Hong, it's rare for old classmates to get together, so it's good to have a little fun. It's okay to drink a little."

Seeing that she couldn't refuse, Chen Weihong nodded in agreement, her face showing a mixture of curiosity and nervousness: "Well... okay, I'll just have a little to try."

While waiting for their food, the four of them drank the coarse tea served by the waiter and began to chat about their recent lives over the past few years.

The years have passed, leaving different marks on each person, changing their appearance and shaping their current state.

The conversation naturally focused first on Chen Weihong, the protagonist of today's discussion.

"Wei Hong, you're really amazing!"

Chu Dahu gave a heartfelt thumbs up. He was straightforward and his admiration was genuine. "I've personally experienced how tough it was to be sent to the countryside. To be honest, even with my strong physique, I would slack off whenever I could. My attitude was definitely not proactive."

Not only did you persevere, but you also became a role model and an activist. I know better than anyone how hard-won this recommendation spot was for you!

I, Chu Dahu, admire your tenacity!

He considers himself a hard-working person, but the thought of competing with thousands of others for a place in university makes his scalp tingle, and he doubts he can do it.

Chen Weihong was a little embarrassed by the praise and smiled modestly: "It's nothing special. I just gritted my teeth and persevered, and then I happened to get the opportunity. I was just lucky. If we're talking about who's really amazing, it's Brother Guangming."

She looked at Yang Guangming with genuine admiration in her eyes, "I just heard Aunt Zhang mention yesterday that you're already a section-level cadre!"
"It's only been a few years? Out of all our classmates, you're probably the one who's developed the best!"

Yan Jun nodded repeatedly, his tone filled with envy and pride: "Yes, yes! Guangming is young and promising, highly valued by the leaders, and has a bright future! In our shop, the old masters in this area often talk about Guangming when they chat, saying that the Yang family's lad is promising."

Yang Guangming felt a little embarrassed by their constant praise, and waved his hand, saying, "What do you mean by 'celebrity'? It's just good luck, plus the organization's support. I can't compare to Wei Hong, who got into university entirely on her own ability and perseverance. That's real talent, a true backbone."

Yan Jun changed the subject, looking at Chu Dahu, "Xiang Hong may not know, but Hu Tou is doing quite well now, a backbone of the security department, and also highly valued by the leadership. With his physique and temperament, he's born for security, and his future is definitely bright!"

Chu Dahu chuckled, revealing a set of neat white teeth, with a touch of simple-minded pride: "Well, I'm just strong. I listen to the leaders and do whatever they tell me to do. I'm not afraid of offending anyone."

I can't compare to you writers and smooth talkers. But I'm quite satisfied. I'm sheltered from the wind and rain, much better than toiling in the fields during my time in the countryside! I'm content!

Chu Dahu then looked at Yan Jun and expressed his concern in his own unique way, "Yan Jun, you've changed quite a bit! You used to be a quiet rascal, you wouldn't say a word for three sticks, but now you're eloquent, like a lark. It seems working behind the counter is quite good training!"

Yan Jun was amused by his straightforward analogy and, no longer as easily embarrassed as before, said frankly:

"I deal with all sorts of customers from all over the country every day. Even if I'm not good with words, I've honed my skills. It's just a job, to make a living. There's no great ambition in it. I just want a stable life."

His tone lacked the gloom and inferiority of his younger days, and instead conveyed a sense of composure and contentment that came with life's trials.

At this time, the waiter started to serve the food.

Steamed sea bass, piping hot, with white flesh topped with shredded ginger and scallions, glistening with tempting soy sauce; braised pork belly, cooked to a deep reddish-brown color and glistening with oil, each piece trembling slightly, perfectly balanced between lean and fat, exuding a rich meaty aroma; scallion oil chicken, with golden-yellow skin and tender, smooth meat, and a tantalizing scallion fragrance; and vibrant green bok choy garnished with brown shiitake mushrooms, appearing fresh and delicious.

The aroma of the dishes immediately filled the air, making one's mouth water.

Yang Guangming picked up the bottle opener and skillfully opened four bottles of chilled beer. The amber liquid was poured into the glass, creating a layer of fine white foam, and a wisp of cool air rose from it.

"Come on!" He raised his glass first, the clear yellow liquid swirling in it. "The first toast is to welcome Wei Hong back! Congratulations on becoming a proud worker-peasant-soldier college student. I wish her a bright future and a promising career!"

"Congratulations to Wei Hong!" Chu Dahu and Yan Jun echoed loudly, raising their glasses.

Chen Weihong excitedly picked up her glass and carefully clinked it against everyone's, the glass making a crisp sound: "Thank you! Thank you all!"

The four of them tilted their heads back and took a sip. The icy beer slid down their throats, taking away the summer heat and bringing a refreshing coolness.

Chen Weihong was clearly drinking beer for the first time. She frowned slightly at the unique bitter taste, but quickly relaxed and a blush rose on her face. She smiled and said, "It's a bit bitter, but it's quite refreshing."

"Eat your food! Stop talking!" Yang Guangming urged everyone to start eating.

Without any hesitation, Chu Dahu picked up a large piece of braised pork, glistening with sauce, and stuffed it into his mouth. He chewed with satisfaction, mumbling his praise, "Delicious! So delicious! Fatty but not greasy! I haven't had such authentic braised pork in a long time!"

Yan Jun, on the other hand, appeared much more refined. He picked up a piece of tender fish with his chopsticks, dipped it in the soy sauce at the bottom of the plate, tasted it carefully, and nodded: "Hmm, this fish is steamed to perfection, the meat is sweet and fresh."

Chen Weihong stared at the table laden with what she considered a lavish spread, her eyes glazed over, as if she couldn't believe it was real. She murmured:
"In the village, we rarely eat meat throughout the year. During festivals, the production team slaughters pigs, and each person gets a small piece of meat. We have to save it for many days and not waste a single drop of oil."

A meal like this, with fish, meat, and chicken, was something I never dared to dream of before; it felt like a dream.

Her words calmed the lively atmosphere slightly.

Everyone recalled her description of rural life and felt a sense of感慨 (gǎnkǎi, mixed feelings) in their hearts.

"It's all in the past now." Yang Guangming placed a plump chicken leg in her bowl. "After hardship comes happiness. Things will only get better from now on. As a college student, you get a living allowance from the government, so you definitely won't have to worry about food anymore."

"Yes!" Chen Weihong nodded emphatically, a determined and hopeful smile returning to her face. "I will definitely cherish this rare opportunity, study hard, and live up to... live up to everyone's expectations."

The "everyone" she referred to clearly included her friends and family present, and perhaps even the male educated youth who voluntarily gave up the opportunity.

As they ate and chatted, the topic inevitably shifted to Yang Guangming's upcoming wedding.

Yan Jun asked first, "Guangming, I heard you're getting married on National Day? Is your bride from Dongfang Machinery Factory? Is her name Lin Jianyue?"

Chu Dahu punched Yang Guangming's shoulder hard, grinned, and said in a loud voice, "When are you going to bring your wife out to meet us? We've heard you say it so many times, but we just can't seem to find her. She must be incredibly beautiful to catch your eye, right? You're really having a double win in both your career and love life!"

Chen Weihong's eyes widened in surprise; she truly didn't know this news: "Brother Guangming is getting married? Congratulations! That's wonderful news! What does your wife do?"

Yang Guangming smiled happily. "Yes, it's settled. It'll be during the National Day holiday. Jian Yue... she's a really nice person. She works in the labor and personnel department of Dongfang Machinery Factory. I'll definitely invite you to our wedding banquet then."

"I'll definitely be there! I absolutely have to be there! I'll put aside even the biggest things!" Chu Dahu thumped his chest loudly.

"I've already prepared the congratulatory gift, and I'm just waiting for your big day!" Yan Jun echoed with a smile.

After asking around, Chen Weihong learned that Lin Jianyue was a cadre at the Dongfang Machinery Factory and came from a well-off family. Chen Weihong praised her again, saying that Yang Guangming had good judgment and good fortune, and that everything was going smoothly for him.

After chatting about our recent situations and future happy events, we couldn't help but reminisce about the various fun things that happened during our high school years.

Who got caught reading a novel in class by the strict Chinese teacher and was made to stand for the whole period? Who tripped and fell flat on their face during a relay race at the sports meet because they were too nervous, causing the whole audience to burst into laughter? Who secretly passed a note to the prettiest girl in the class but was caught by the class monitor and the whole thing became public knowledge...

Those long-forgotten, naive, and silly memories of youth were awakened one by one, and the dinner table was filled with relaxed and nostalgic laughter.

The years of separation and the unfamiliarity brought about by different circumstances gradually melted away in this uninhibited laughter.

Although they have gone on to very different paths in life, the friendship they formed in their youth, which was free from any self-interest, seems especially pure and warm at this moment.

Yang Guangming looked at his three old friends: Chu Dahu, who was cheerful and righteous, like a tiger descending the mountain; Yan Jun, who was shrewd and quick-witted, but whose edges had been worn down by life; and Chen Weihong, who was resilient and calm, and who had finally broken through the soil.

They all lived, struggled, and grew tenaciously in this turbulent and often helpless era.

Each of them, to varying degrees, seized an opportunity to change their fate. Although the process was arduous, the results were generally satisfactory, which can only be described as fortunate.

The meal lasted a long time, from 11:30 a.m. until almost 2 p.m.

They finished all eight bottles of beer and ate most of the dishes.

Seeing that it was getting late, Yan Jun had to go back to the store to hand over his shift, and Chu Dahu also had some business with his colleagues in the afternoon, so Yang Guangming called the waiter to settle the bill.

Stepping out of the restaurant, the afternoon sun was still quite glaring.

"Next time we get together, we'll be waiting to drink your wedding wine, Guangming!" Chu Dahu said loudly, patting Yang Guangming's back forcefully.

"No problem! I'll definitely let you know first!" Yang Guangming agreed with a smile.

"Wei Hong, when are you going to register at the school? Keep in touch while you're in Shanghai," Yan Jun said to Chen Wei Hong.

"Yes, there are still a few days until I report for duty. I'll definitely look after everyone when I have time," Chen Weihong nodded in agreement.

The four stood at the bustling street corner, exchanged a few more words of mutual care and encouragement, and then went their separate ways.

Chu Dahu and Yan Jun went in different directions, while Yang Guangming and Chen Weihong, who were going the same way, walked back together.

Walking through the familiar alleyway shaded by sycamore trees, Yang Guangming casually said to Chen Weihong:

“Once you get to university, three years will fly by. After graduation, even if you can’t go back to Shanghai for the time being, you’ll be assigned to a job in Yunnan. You’ll have the status of a proper government cadre, which is a thousand times better than staying in the village to farm for the rest of your life. It’s so rare that you were able to seize this opportunity. You made the right move.”

“I know.” Chen Weihong nodded earnestly, her eyes clear and firm. “I will definitely cherish this opportunity and learn something. Brother Guangming, thank you… for always helping and encouraging me.”

Her gratitude encompassed so much, from the emergency walnuts and food coupons four years ago, to today's welcome banquet, and the intangible spiritual support she has received all along.

Yang Guangming smiled and said sincerely, "It's only right for old classmates to help each other out. I'm genuinely happy to see you like this. If you encounter any difficulties in university or in life, please don't hesitate to ask if I can help."

Upon arriving at the Chen family's door, Chen Weihong stopped and said, "Brother Guangming, I'll go up first."

"Okay, goodbye. Get some rest."

Watching Chen Weihong turn and gracefully go upstairs, Yang Guangming felt a surge of satisfaction.

This girl next door, who was once frail and helpless in the courtyard, seemingly vulnerable to the wind and rain, finally blossomed on barren land and carved out a new world for herself through her tenacity and perseverance.

Although her future remains uncertain, it has already paved a path far broader than the past.

He looked up at the sky above the Shikumen gate; white clouds drifted by leisurely and unhurriedly.

The winds of the times are as unpredictable as the white clouds overhead, and an individual's fate rises and falls within them, like a small boat on a vast ocean.

But there are always some people, like wild grass struggling to survive in the cracks of rocks, who, given even a sliver of sunshine and rain, can tenaciously grow towards the sky. (End of Chapter)