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

Chapter 97, Section 96: Warm Hospitality, Further Deal

The lobby was bustling with activity. Several round tables were already full of diners who had just finished get off work. The sounds of clinking glasses, toasts, and laughter mingled together, creating a lively atmosphere.

Wu Hongtao led Yang Guangming through the slightly crowded dining area with practiced ease, towards a relatively quiet corridor at the back, and pushed open the door to a small private room.

As soon as the door opened, Tang Jianhong's face, adorned with an overly enthusiastic smile, immediately came into view.

Today he wore a nearly new light gray, starched short-sleeved shirt made of polyester, and his hair was neatly combed and shiny. He looked more energetic and capable than when we last met at the restaurant, as if he was carefully preparing for an important meeting.

"Oh, Comrade Xiao Yang! Please come in, please come in!"

Tang Jianhong immediately stood up, nimbly walked around the table, strode to the door, stretched out his hands, and vigorously shook Yang Guangming's hands, saying enthusiastically, "Right on time! Really right on time! Thank you for making the trip! Were you sweltering on the way?"

"Hello Uncle Tang, it's nothing, no trouble at all." Yang Guangming greeted him with a polite smile, shaking hands and exchanging pleasantries, feeling the strength and warmth of the other's hand.

The private room wasn't large, but it was fairly clean.

Several cold dishes were already laid out on the small round table: a plate of thinly sliced, richly colored braised beef; a plate of glistening, reddish-brown fried shrimp; a plate of vibrant green cucumber salad drizzled with sesame oil; and a small dish of golden-brown, crispy fried peanuts.

On the table were a bottle of beer labeled "Guangming" and a bottle of "Qibao Daqu" with a high alcohol content.

"Sit down, sit down, Hongtao, quickly pour tea for Xiaoyang! Use the Longjing tea I brought!" Tang Jianhong greeted him repeatedly, appearing exceptionally attentive and considerate, as if Yang Guangming were a distinguished guest he had invited.

The three of them sat down as instructed.

Tang Jianhong didn't immediately bring up the main business, but instead picked up his chopsticks first and warmly invited Yang Guangming to eat:
"Here you go, Xiaoyang, have something to eat first. You must be starving after such a trip! Don't be shy! Try this braised beef, it's their signature dish. It's made by a master chef, so thinly sliced ​​and incredibly flavorful!"

While urging the dishes to be cooked, he naturally started a conversation, subtly leading the conversation to the crucial rhinoceros horn slice transaction from last time.

"Xiao Yang," Tang Jianhong put down his chopsticks after a few bites of cold dishes, his smile fading and replaced with an extremely sincere expression, even one tinged with lingering fear and deep gratitude.

His brows furrowed slightly, as if he had returned to that thrilling moment. "Regarding Xiao Bao's matter last time, it was really... all thanks to you!"
Thanks to the rhinoceros horn pieces your relative had! You are our little one's savior!
Not an exaggeration at all! Really!

He emphasized this, his gaze fixed on Yang Guangming, conveying heartfelt gratitude.

He leaned forward slightly, his voice lowered, filled with the感慨 of surviving a disaster:
"Do you know what happened to Xiao Bao? He had a high fever and convulsions that time. His whole body was convulsing so badly that it was terrifying. When he was taken to the hospital, the doctor almost shook his head! He said it was extremely dangerous!"
The Western medicine was like a stone sinking into the ocean, leaving no ripples whatsoever! The mercury column on the thermometer shot up rapidly, making our hearts jump out of our chests!

If it weren't for the old Chinese medicine doctor we consulted later who prescribed a formula specifying that rhinoceros horn was the main ingredient to draw out the pathogenic heat, and if it weren't for your timely help in sending that life-saving medicine...

He sighed heavily, his eyes seemingly reddening, his sincerity even more profound and weighty than during their hasty transaction at the restaurant last time.

"The medicine really worked immediately!"

Tang Jianhong's tone suddenly became excited, filled with the shock of witnessing a miracle firsthand, "The fever subsided that very night! And he gradually regained consciousness!"
When our little boy opened his eyes and called out "Mama," tears streamed down our faces.

After a few doses of medicine, he's back to being lively and energetic, incredibly playful.

Look at the efficacy of this medicine! Things passed down from our ancestors are sometimes truly miraculous; it's a real life-saving remedy! Don't you agree?

He looked at Yang Guangming, eagerly seeking approval, as if he needed someone to witness this incredible event together.

Yang Guangming nodded, showing a relieved and relaxed smile: "It's good that Xiaobao is alright, that's more important than anything else. I'm sure my relatives will be happy to know that the medicine can be used to save a life."

Uncle Tang, you're too kind. We just helped out in any way we could; it was just a coincidence.

He deliberately attributed the credit to "chance" and "relatives".

"It's not an exaggeration!" Tang Jianhong waved his hands repeatedly, his expression extremely serious. "It's a real favor! Our family, especially my wife, is incredibly grateful to you! We've been saying we want to thank you properly! Please don't refuse this time!"

As he spoke, he picked up the bottle of "Qibao Daqu" and personally filled the small wine cup in front of Yang Guangming. The transparent liquid emitted a strong aroma.

"Come on, Xiaoyang. Hongtao, let's toast Xiaoyang together!"

Tang Jianhong raised his wine glass with both hands, his tone extremely solemn, "Thank you for lending a helping hand in our time of crisis and saving Xiaobao's life!"

His gaze swept across Yang Guangming and Wu Hongtao's faces, carrying an earnestness that brooked no refusal.

Wu Hongtao quickly picked up his beer glass. Yang Guangming could only raise his glass in return: "Uncle Tang, you're too kind. It's nothing."

The three cups tapped gently in mid-air, producing a crisp sound.

Tang Jianhong downed his drink in one gulp, while Yang Guangming and Wu Hongtao each took a sip.

After the drinks were consumed, the atmosphere, deliberately created by Tang Jianhong and enhanced by the alcohol, became exceptionally warm and harmonious.

After a few drinks, the hot dishes were brought out one after another by the waiters:
A bowl of glistening, tempting braised pork belly with a perfect balance of lean and fat; a steamed sea bass topped with vibrant green scallions and tender yellow ginger slices, its aroma irresistible; a plate of bright green shiitake mushrooms and bok choy, refreshing and delicious.

Tang Jianhong's talkative nature was fully unleashed in the relaxed and intoxicated environment.

He stopped mentioning gratitude and instead steered the conversation toward Yang Guangming's work, with the concern and inquiry of an elder.

"Xiao Yang, Hong Tao told me you're doing really well in the factory administration office at Hongxing Factory? The factory leaders think highly of you?"

Tang Jianhong picked up a trembling, bright red braised pork and placed it in the sunny bowl, saying warmly, "Eat more, young people need to nourish themselves."

"It's alright, I just started, I'm still in the learning and adaptation phase, mainly to keep up with Director Han." Yang Guangming answered humbly and politely, putting the piece of meat into his mouth.

"The factory administration office is a great place!" Tang Jianhong said with the air of someone who knew this all too well. "It's a core department! Close to the leaders, lots of opportunities!"

He changed the subject, leaning forward slightly, adopting a posture of being sincere and imparting life experience, "But Xiao Yang, Uncle Tang is a few years older and has been working in the personnel department of Dongfang Factory for many years. He has seen a lot of ups and downs. I have a few words to say from the bottom of my heart. Listen and see if they make sense."

He put down his chopsticks, his gaze becoming more serious:

"In this factory, doing things is important, but being a good person is even more important! Especially when you're working alongside a leader, you need to be observant and attentive to your surroundings."

You need to clearly distinguish who genuinely helps and supports you, and who are two-faced, even waiting to see you fail or find fault with you.
Some older comrades may have seniority, but they may not genuinely tolerate younger people emerging. You need to be careful not to be used as a pawn, nor to block their path without realizing it.

He paused, picked up his wine glass, took a sip, and continued:
"Also, always leave a record of what you do! Sign what needs to be signed, record what needs to be recorded, and archive what needs to be archived! Everything in black and white, clear and unambiguous! This is the most important protective shield for yourself!"

You are still young, with a bright future ahead of you. Take each step carefully! Only with a solid foundation can you build a tall building!

He spoke earnestly and ramblingly about some workplace experiences and unspoken rules, some of which were old clichés, while others carried a touch of reality and worldly wisdom.

Yang Guangming listened patiently, his face showing focus and a willingness to learn. He nodded from time to time and occasionally echoed with "Uncle Tang is right," "I remember," and "Thank you for your guidance, Uncle Tang."

He knew that Tang Jianhong was trying to get closer to him and build a sense of trust as one of his own, while also demonstrating his "value"—the experience, connections, and "insider information" of a seasoned veteran who had worked in the personnel department of a large state-owned factory for many years.

Wu Hongtao listened from the side, sometimes nodding in agreement, sometimes eating his food in silence, and occasionally interjecting with a few innocuous remarks such as "Uncle is right" or "Guangming, you should be careful."

Under Tang Jianhong's guidance and with the help of alcohol, the atmosphere was pleasant for both host and guests, and most of the dishes on the table were finished.

After a satisfying meal, most of the plates on the table were empty, with only some soup and a few side dishes remaining.

Perhaps because Tang Jianhong had some connections here, the waiter was quite enthusiastic. After coming in, he quickly cleared away the leftover food and brought out a pot of freshly brewed coarse tea.

The atmosphere in the private room seemed to settle down as the mess of cups and plates disappeared, shifting from the previous hustle and bustle to a tacit silence.

Tang Jianhong picked up the cup of dark, coarse tea, blew on the tea stems floating on the surface, and slowly took a sip. His smile remained gentle, but there was a hint of seriousness and solemnity in his eyes.

He cleared his throat and finally got to the real topic of tonight's dinner party.

"Xiao Yang."

He put down his teacup, leaned forward slightly again, and lowered his voice, which carried a clear earnestness and a perfectly measured awkwardness:

"We invited you here today not only to express our family's gratitude, but also because... there is another matter we'd like to ask you for help with, even if it's a bit embarrassing."

He rubbed his hands together, looking somewhat embarrassed.

Here comes the bright sunshine.

He remained expressionless, focusing intently on Tang Jianhong, his eyes revealing listening and understanding: "Uncle Tang, please tell me. I will do my best to help. We are all family."

Tang Jianhong sighed heavily, his brows furrowed as if weighed down by a thousand-pound burden.

"He's an old friend of mine, a really close friend. We've been playing together since we were kids, like brothers. His family... sigh, they've run into a big mess!"

His tone was heavy, filled with deep sympathy for his friend's situation.

"His mother is over seventy years old, and her health was originally quite good."

A few days ago, I don't know what happened, I suddenly had a stroke!
Half of his body was immobile, his mouth was crooked, he couldn't speak clearly, and he couldn't control his drooling.

Upon arrival at the hospital, the doctor diagnosed it as "heat-induced pericardial closure," a very dangerous condition caused by the invasion of pathogenic heat into the heart.
She's quite old, and she's taken a lot of Western medicine at the hospital, had injections and IV drips, but the results...

Sigh, it's not very effective.

Having exhausted all other options, we asked someone to find an old traditional Chinese medicine doctor, who claimed to have a family tradition of treating strokes.

He paused, observing Yang Guangming's reaction. Seeing his focused expression filled with sympathy, he continued in a more somber tone:

"The old Chinese medicine doctor took my pulse and examined my tongue. He said it was similar to my baby's last condition. The pathogenic heat had reached its peak and blocked my heart!"

We urgently need rhinoceros horn, the principal ingredient, to clear the mind, open the orifices, cool the blood, and detoxify!

The serving size should ideally be no less than five grams!

The saying goes that this medicinal ingredient, once administered, will disperse the pathogenic heat, open the mind's orifices, and give the person a chance to recover! Otherwise… alas!

He sighed again, as if he couldn't bear to say any more.

"Just imagine, an elderly person in their seventies, lying in a hospital bed suffering, unable to speak or even turn over, what a tragedy!"

As children, they see this and feel the pain in their hearts; which one of them isn't extremely anxious?
My friend was so worried that several strands of his hair turned white! He stayed at the hospital day and night, and he lost a lot of weight!

Tang Jianhong's voice choked with emotion, and his eyes reddened again. "He knows that our Xiaobao was saved by rhinoceros horn last time, so... so he came to us for help!"
Sigh! We'd love to kneel down and beg them!

He slapped his thigh hard, looking helpless and empathetic. "We've known each other for years, closer than brothers. He asked, and I just... just couldn't refuse!"
I have no choice but to swallow my pride and come back to you for help. Xiao Yang, you're my last hope!

Tang Jianhong looked at Yang Guangming, his eyes filled with pleading, expectation, and a hint of desperation: "Xiao Yang, do you think... could your relatives 'sponsor' a little more? Calculate five grams, of course, more would be better!"
Ideally, the quality should be the same as last time; it's life-saving medicine, so we can't be careless! Don't worry about the price!

He immediately patted his chest, his tone resolute and sincere, "My friend is a reasonable and law-abiding person, he will definitely not let you suffer any losses!"
We're just acting as intermediaries, connecting friends, relaying messages, and bearing witness; we absolutely don't profit from it by a single penny! Do you trust Uncle Tang?

Yang Guang listened quietly to Tang Jianhong's vivid narration, maintaining a moderate level of sympathy and understanding on his face throughout.

Is this story true or false? Was it to help a friend save a life, or was it to profit from the price difference or do someone a favor?
Yang Guangming had no intention of delving into it, nor was he too lazy to spend the effort to discern the truth behind it.

For him, it was essentially a mutually beneficial deal.

The other party has a clear and urgent need and is willing to pay what he considers a reasonable price, while he has a stable and inexhaustible supply of "goods".

As long as the transaction process is safe and controllable, it will be in his favor.

As for Tang Jianhong's role in all of this—whether he was genuinely helping, a mere middleman, or trying to curry favor with that "friend"—he didn't care as long as it didn't harm his core interests.

He paused for a moment, as if seriously considering the "inventory" situation on the "relative's" side, and unconsciously tapped his knuckles lightly twice on the table.

Then, meeting Tang Jianhong's almost burning, eager gaze, he simply nodded, his tone carrying understanding and a heavy sense of empathy:

"The situation at Uncle Tang's friend's home is truly heartbreaking."

The elderly person is getting old and can't afford to wait any longer; every minute is torture.

He paused, as if making a decision, "Okay, I'll go back and ask my relatives if they still have any in stock. The quantity... should meet the five-gram requirement, and I'll try to pick the best quality ones."

It's all about saving lives; we'll help if we can. Don't worry, Uncle Tang.

"Good! Great!"

A relieved smile instantly spread across Tang Jianhong's face. He was so excited that he almost stood up from his chair, and his hands couldn't help but wave in the air.
"Xiaoyang! You really...you've really been a huge help! We thank you on behalf of our friend! Thank you to your family and relatives! We will always remember this kindness!"

He was clearly prepared, and immediately responded, speaking quickly and clearly:
"Xiaoyang, do you think this arrangement is okay?"
To be on the safe side, and to put our friends at ease—after all, this is a matter of life and death, and the authenticity and weight of the medicinal materials cannot be taken lightly—we would like to ask Director Gu of Jishetang to take another look, check the quality, and weigh the herbs as well.

He's an expert, an authority! With his word, everyone can rest assured!

As for the time... let's set it for tomorrow morning, at my home.

It's a quiet place, easy to talk to, and I don't have to worry about being disturbed. What do you think?

He stared intently at Yang Guangming.

Please have Gu Yongkang conduct an appraisal?

Yang Guangming understood perfectly. This was both Tang Jianhong's or his friend's caution regarding the authenticity and value of the medicinal materials, and another instance of leveraging Gu Yongkang's credibility as a "professional" to endorse the products, while cleverly avoiding the risks that might arise from transactions in pharmacies or other public places.

Going to Tang Jianhong's house was indeed more private and safer than the private room at the restaurant last time.

"It would be wonderful if Director Gu could help with the identification. With him overseeing the process, everyone can rest assured."

Yang Guangming readily agreed without the slightest hesitation, "I'll do as Uncle Tang said, and I'll come to your residence tomorrow morning to bother you."

"Oh, what a bother! You're more than welcome! Your presence is an honor to our humble abode!"

Tang Jianhong smiled broadly, rubbing his hands together, and finally asked the most crucial question, "So... what about the price? What do you think?"

He asked tentatively, his eyes filled with inquiry and a hint of barely perceptible tension.

"Let's stick to the previous price." Yang Guangming's tone was calm and composed, giving a clear and firm answer, "One hundred and twenty yuan per gram. As for the ration coupons..."

He then changed the subject, sounding quite practical, "Our relatives do indeed lack some coupons for daily necessities, such as cloth coupons, clothing coupons, cotton coupons, wool coupons, shoe coupons, and industrial coupons."

"As for the exact amount, my relative said we can just calculate it based on the market price. Uncle Tang, you can decide for yourself; I trust you."

He clearly stated the need for "tickets" and reiterated the importance of the "relative" as an intermediary. This gave Tang Jianhong some room for maneuver and flexibility in the conversion of tickets, making it both practical and considerate of the other party's feelings, thus making it easier for them to accept.

"Great! That's efficient! Xiao Yang, you're always so decisive in your work!"

Tang Jianhong slapped his thigh, completely relieved, and a relieved smile appeared on his face. "Xiao Yang, don't worry! Leave the ticket issue to me!"
I work in the personnel department of the Dongfang Factory; I have connections there! I'll definitely handle things perfectly for your relative, ensuring they get everything they need, and even more than they should! You definitely won't suffer any losses!

He patted his chest again, making a solemn promise.

The core details of the matter were thus finalized.

Yang Guangming picked up his teacup and lightly touched it with Tang Jianhong's, who had also picked up his teacup.

The crisp clinking of porcelain served as a testament to the tacit understanding that the deal had been reached. All that remains is to finalize the specific details of the transaction tomorrow.

Wu Hongtao, who had been sitting quietly eating and listening intently to the crucial conversation between the two, felt a mix of emotions swirling within him.

He watched his cousin Tang Jianhong's warm and attentive manner toward Yang Guangming, even with a hint of deliberate flattery. Then he realized that today's meal was clearly a lavish feast specially arranged by his cousin to ask Yang Guangming for a favor, and that he himself had been nothing more than a guest and a messenger from beginning to end.

What bothered him even more was that his cousin had arranged for Yang Guangming to come to his house for the transaction the next day. In such a "private" and "solemn" occasion, he was not invited to go with him, the "introducer," as if he had already completed his mission and could leave.

Those who are employed are facing forward, those who are not being used are facing backward.

Wu Hongtao muttered to himself, feeling that his cousin's behavior was far too pragmatic and utilitarian.

A sense of being ignored and taken advantage of quietly grew.

However, he didn't show it on his face. He just silently took another sip of the tea, which had already gone cold, and the bitter taste of the tea seemed to spread into his heart.

After chatting for a few more minutes about trivial things, such as the weather and recent movies, Tang Jianhong noticed that it was getting late and loudly called the waiter to come in and settle the bill.

He deftly pulled out a stack of banknotes and a few grain coupons, carefully counted them, paid the bill, and once again expressed his deepest gratitude to Yang Guangming. The three of them then got up and left the private room together.

The early summer night breeze, carrying warmth and the unique vibrancy of the city, swept over us.

Standing at the hotel entrance as the neon lights began to illuminate the night, Tang Jianhong shook hands firmly with Yang Guangming again, repeatedly reminding him, as if afraid he might forget:

"Xiaoyang, it's settled then. I'll be waiting for you at home tomorrow morning at nine o'clock! Hongtao knows the address, have him tell you the exact address, and don't forget! Be sure to be on time!"

"Don't worry, Uncle Tang, I remember. I'll be there at nine o'clock tomorrow," Yang Guangming replied with a smile, his tone certain.

"Okay, okay! I'll be going now. You should go home and get some rest too! I'll need your help again tomorrow!"

After Tang Jianhong finished speaking, he symbolically patted Wu Hongtao on the shoulder next to him, "Hongtao, you stay and talk to Xiaoyang for a few more minutes. I have some things to take care of at home, so I'll be going now."

After saying that, without waiting for their response, he turned around and walked briskly into the bustling crowd on the street, his figure quickly disappearing from sight.

Watching his uncle's decisive, even somewhat impatient, departure, Wu Hongtao finally couldn't hold back any longer. He pursed his lips at Yang Guangming and muttered in a low voice:
"Guangming, look at my cousin!"

When they need something from you, they become incredibly affectionate, treating you to meals and making promises they can keep, their enthusiasm as fiery as a ball of fire.

Now that things are settled, they're running faster than rabbits.

I'm going to his house to make the deal tomorrow, and he didn't even bother to call me. It's like I'm just a messenger, used and then discarded without a second thought.

His tone carried a clear sense of dissatisfaction and self-deprecation, as well as a feeling of being belittled:
"He's actually my cousin! Humph, this guy is incredibly shrewd, even more shrewd than an abacus bead!"

When you go to his room tomorrow, be careful. Count all the money and documents carefully in front of him, and make sure nothing is missing, not even a single loose thread!
Just take what he says with a grain of salt; it's only three parts truth and seven parts lies, and a lot of it is exaggerated!

Like a wronged younger brother, he eagerly poured out his grievances to Yang Guangming, also reminding him of something.

Yang Guangming found it somewhat amusing to see Wu Hongtao's sullen yet slightly indignant expression, and he also understood his old classmate's simple sense of loyalty.

He patted Wu Hongtao on the shoulder and comforted him, "Hongtao, I understand your intentions. Thank you for reminding me! Don't worry, I know what I'm doing. A transaction is a transaction, I'll be careful, cash on delivery, clean and straightforward."

He paused, then spoke with even greater sincerity: "Thank you for making this special trip today, waiting and keeping me company."

We're old classmates, we grew up together, so just tell me whatever's on your mind, don't be shy.

Study hard at Jishetang; those are real skills, and you'll definitely have a bright future.

Hearing Yang Guangming's sincere and unpretentious words, Wu Hongtao's pent-up grievances and unhappiness dissipated considerably.

He scratched his head and smiled somewhat sheepishly: "I was just talking casually, venting a little. As long as you understand, I'm relieved. Well... I'm going back now, the pharmacy dormitory needs to be locked up."

"Okay, be careful on the road, it's dark at night." Yang Guangming nodded.

The two waved goodbye on the neon-lit street where pedestrians were thinning out.

Wu Hongtao turned around, his shadow stretched long and short under the dim streetlights, and walked back to the pharmacy dormitory.

Watching Wu Hongtao's figure disappear into the night, Yang Guangming stood alone at the restaurant entrance.

The gentle evening breeze of early summer caressed my cheeks, carrying the faint fragrance of unknown flowers in the distance and the mixed scents of city life.

He took a deep breath, feeling his chest expand.

A hidden path to wealth was quietly unfolding beneath his feet, bringing tangible money, scarce ration coupons, and a subtle power to control scarce resources.

At the Red Star Factory, his position was gradually solidified thanks to his solid writing skills and his increasingly clear image as a "capable person," earning him Han Mingqian's approval and Zhao Guodong's deeper affirmation.

In this era, opportunities and risks are intertwined like vines, growing together in symbiosis.

He needs to be more cautious, like walking on thin ice, yet he must also be more resolute, standing firm as a rock.

He started walking towards the direction of the Shikumen house.

The windows on both sides of the street shone with twinkling lights, outlining the warm silhouettes of ordinary homes.

Tomorrow morning, another deal awaits Tang Jianhong at his home.

Every step requires careful consideration.

(End of this chapter)