nodded.

"What’s wrong, Sister Yanzi?" Fu Le asked concernedly when he noticed her sudden mood drop.

"I’m worried about when Brother and Dad will come to pick us up. Whose car will we ride in? No matter whose car it is, someone will be unhappy. This is so frustrating, Brother Le!"

"Of course, we’ll go with whoever arrives first."

"With their competitive nature, do you think they'll give us the chance?"

"True! How about we leave school early and take a bus home?"

"No, if they don’t pick us up, we'll still be in trouble. You ride with my dad, and I’ll ride with my uncle. That’s settled then," Liu Xiaoyan said with relief.

"My sister is so smart," Fu Le praised sincerely.

Secretary Liu rushed to the village office, noticing the high-end cars parked there, indicating visiting officials of considerable rank. He recognized the village’s car but knew the others must surpass his in quality, although he wasn’t sure of their brands.

Chapter 9: Old Master Min

He was a complete novice when it came to cars. The sight of Mayor Nie standing with his arms folded, smiling obsequiously, revealed the importance of their visitor. Mayor Nie’s spectacles were nearly slipping off his nose.

"Come here, Secretary Liu. Let me introduce you. This is Old Master Min, an expert from our provincial geological department." Mayor Nie seemed to grow a few inches taller upon seeing Secretary Liu. Liu shook hands lightly with Expert Min. He wasn’t particularly impressed by high-ranking officials. To be honest, Secretary Liu held little respect for Mayor Nie.

For instance, the current matter could have proceeded with just a nod from Mayor Nie. Instead, he had brought in Expert Min, clearly using the opportunity to advertise the township and build political capital for himself. Liu didn’t care much for political ambitions; he just wanted to serve his village’s interests. He had little regard for anything beyond that. Mayor Nie’s penchant for self-promotion always involved bringing journalists along for coverage whenever he visited the countryside.

"What are you looking for, Secretary Liu?" asked Mayor Nie, noticing Liu scanning the surroundings while shaking hands with Expert Min.

"Looking for a camera, maybe even a close-up shot. Wouldn’t it be nice to leave the audience with a good impression?"

"Oh! Today’s visit is more private and informal; hence, no TV staff," Mayor Nie’s face reddened slightly. He turned to Expert Min with a sheepish smile and said, "I tend to keep a low profile." Liu nearly scoffed out loud; if Nie could publicize his visits to the restroom, he probably would.

"Secretary Liu, how should we arrange things at the village committee?" Liu asked for directives from Mayor Nie.

"Doesn't your brick factory have a fish pond? Old Master Min is an avid angler

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