sphalt project, the roads would remain muddy. The local clay in East Village, known for sticking bicycles to people during rainy days, had kept most officials away from this "godforsaken place."

However, the clay's utility was evident in the sturdy, highly demanded bricks and tiles it produced. The first time Mayor Nie visited, the entire village had prepared an elaborate, ceremonial welcome with red carpets and water-sprinkled streets. But now, with County Magistrate Wang's presence, Secretary Liu was acting aloof, which puzzled Liu Mazi.

Adding to the confusion was Expert Min’s unusual focus on Mrs. Liu. Liu Mazi retreated to the kitchen to grab a knife, planning to use it if Expert Min misbehaved. He had no concern for whether the mine opened or not; his family’s safety was paramount. Despite Mrs. Liu’s decent looks, he could not fathom Expert Min’s apparent obsession.

“County Magistrate Wang, County Magistrate Wang...” Secretary Liu suddenly ran out as if possessed by a ghost.

“Come back! I sent them away,” Expert Min said.

"Sir, did the County Magistrate really visit our village?"

“Yes, along with Deputy Secretary Zeng and Mayor Nie from your town.”

"Good heavens! This is terrible!" Secretary Liu slapped his forehead, feeling he had missed a major opportunity. However, upon seeing the permit in his hand, he brightened up again.

“Sir, please sit down. I need to call the Secretary to show my gratitude.”

"That's appropriate."

Secretary Liu stepped into the yard and was about to dial Secretary Nie when his phone rang. It was Secretary Nie.

"It seems Comrade Nie is growing more considerate of the people's needs and understands his subordinates," Secretary Liu thought to himself.

“Da Pao, my brother! Take good care of Mr. Min, please!” Mayor Nie's low voice pleaded before hanging up.

“Who exactly is this Mr. Min? Could he be more influential than County Magistrate Wang?” Secretary Liu wondered. But no matter, as long as he helped East Village, he was a benefactor.

“Uncle, why are you holding a knife? Yes, let’s go slaughter chickens and sheep to treat our benefactors well.” Secretary Liu was puzzled, seeing Liu Mazi sneakily pulling him aside to whisper.

“What? You’re saying Mr. Min is improper and has designs on Yan’s mother? Uncle, you’re always overthinking! That’s ridiculous! You must return to the village committee now. If not, I’ll treat it as dereliction of duty.” Seeing Secretary Liu not believing him, Liu Mazi grunted and left.

“Heaven! What’s going on?” Secretary Liu rubbed his eyes, utterly shocked by what he saw next.

Chapter 14: An Unexpected Reunion

Expert Min held Mrs. Liu's hand, and both of them were in tears, overwhelmed with emotion. What was going on? Secretary Liu rolled his eyes in confusion, still unable to gra

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