? Happy New Year to you," Secretary Fu would relent every time, as Old Stubborn lovingly patted the children's heads, his dry lips splitting into a wide smile.

Each month, in addition to Old Stubborn's salary from the village committee, Secretary Fu would personally supplement his income from his own pocket. Otherwise, the meager village salary would have starved him long ago. This had been the routine for decades, though Old Stubborn himself remained unaware of the arrangement.

The village committee office quickly filled with people. Some held steamed buns and peeled, fresh, juicy leeks. Others slurped noodles. They took their seats in various postures. Secretary Fu drank a mouthful of strong tea, glancing at everyone from the corner of his eye. The previously tumultuous office fell silent immediately. Militia Captain Fu Yushui tried to swallow his noodles in one gulp, his expression contorting as the hot food burned or choked him.

"Eat! Eat like a fool! East Village not only bought a car but also discovered an iron ore! Such a big thing, why didn't anyone report it to me?" Everyone kept their heads down, avoiding eye contact with Secretary Fu.

"What does this mean? It means our West Village is about to fall behind East Village! If our generation lets West Village fall behind, how can we face our unyielding ancestors? How can we face the even more flourishing old gingko tree compared to theirs?" Secretary Fu banged the table with his hand for emphasis.

"The purpose of today's emergency development meeting is that I'll go to the province to bring experts for our own exploration. I refuse to believe they have something we can't have. Anyone against it, raise your hand." Accountant Fu Yulai seemed to have something to say but, seeing Secretary Fu's challenging gaze, only smiled broadly in agreement.

Secretary Fu was very pleased with the democratic decision and the outstanding teamwork of the committee.

"Good! Since everyone unanimously supports my decision, it's settled. Bad Shui, you and your uncle will use a three-wheeler to take us to the county bus station."

"Yes, Secretary."

"Meeting adjourned!" With a wave from Secretary Fu, everyone filed out of the office.

On the way to the county bus station, Fu Yushui pondered in silence. He couldn't understand why the Secretary needed him—a militia captain—for a business involving experts, something more suitable for the accountant. Even though he was the only one in the villages with a driver's license, obtained during his military service, they were taking a bus and didn’t need him to drive. But he didn’t dare ask. 

Secretary Fu's temper was well-known. If he wanted you to know something, he’d tell you without asking. If he didn’t, asking was pointless.

Checking his old Shanghai-brand watch, S

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