tremble uncontrollably. The locals were puzzled.

The spicy flour paste, a local specialty, typically involved mixing water, flour, salt, and chili powder and steaming it alongside buns. With time and improvements in living standards, its recipe and ingredients evolved, turning it into a regional delicacy. But its allure seemed disproportionately magnified for Old Min.

After his excitement waned, they refrained from questioning him further. Old Min regained composure and chatted casually with Liu’s wife before graciously departing.

Annually, East and West Villages hosted a summer friendship competition aimed at enriching the villagers' cultural lives. Events included tug-of-war, dragon boating, table tennis, badminton, basketball, wrestling, and martial arts. The honor roll of Secretaries Liu and Fu boasted numerous accolades from these competitions.

Amid mid-summer farming leisure, this friendly rivalry spurred community interactions, ensuring enthusiastic participation. Preparations were in full swing for the upcoming summer friendship games.

Chapter 10: Clash in the Provincial Capital

"Old lady, get my suit out," Deputy Secretary Liu said to his wife, who was massaging her mother-in-law.

"What do you need a suit for?"

"To pick up our son Yanzi."

"Are you out of your mind, wearing a suit in this heat?"

"What’s the big deal? The car’s air conditioning can make it cold enough to freeze. If it weren’t too flashy, I’d even consider wearing the new leather jacket I got last year."

"You madman, do whatever you want. I won’t bother with you." Liu’s wife rolled her eyes but didn’t move.

"Fine! I even wanted to tie a necktie. If not a suit, then what should I wear?"

"Can’t you wear the silk shirt Yanzi bought for you?"

"Alright, fine, I'll heed your advice! I’ll wear the silk shirt my daughter got me; it’s meaningful." Liu agreed readily.

"Such a long journey and you’re not taking Huai Shui with you?" she called out to Liu as he headed out, clutching his bag.

"With my driving skills, reaching the provincial capital is a breeze. Even the White House wouldn't be out of reach now!"

"Yeah, right," she laughed, shaking her head. "Don’t forget the walnut powder for mom!"

"Understood!" Liu hummed a tune as he got into the car.

On the highway to the provincial capital, two similar cars raced each other, driven by two similar men. Over the 200-kilometer journey, they were fined three times for speeding and were eventually stopped again waiting at a red light in the city.

Noting Liu’s car slightly ahead, Deputy Secretary Fu inched his vehicle forward. Liu, noticing, was not pleased and moved up an inch himself. Both engaged in a petty battle until the traffic police ordered them within the safety line and penalized them. Their cars being impounded,

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