Chapter 80

Zhuang Zhixi arrived at the Propaganda Department early in the morning to report for duty.0

Due to the recent rehearsals, he had become quite familiar with the Propaganda Department, and Director Song didn't need to give much additional instruction. He directly led Zhuang Zhixi to the office, clapped his hands to get everyone's attention, and announced: "Everyone's here, right? Let me introduce you to Zhuang Zhixi. I believe you all already know him quite well. Starting today, he will be transferred to our Propaganda Department. Let's welcome our new colleague."0

The crowd immediately burst into applause. Zhuang Zhixi said, "I'm new here, so if I make any mistakes or don't understand something, please do guide me."0

"Zhuang Zhixi, you're being too modest. You're doing just fine."0

"Exactly, we all know each other. You're being too humble, which makes us feel like outsiders," someone chimed in.0

"That's right! Oh, it's been two or three years since we had a young guy in our department. Zhixi, you're the youngest one here now."0

"From now on, we'll have a great talent for our joint performances."0

Everyone chimed in, joking around.0

Overall, the atmosphere was quite positive.0

It made sense, though. There was no competition among them, so no one would intentionally offend others from the start. After all, in the workplace, it's all about human relationships. Unless someone was really out of their mind, no one would deliberately offend others.0

It wasn't worth it.0

However, there was one exception: Little Xu.0

Little Xu's leg hadn't fully healed, yet he didn't contribute at all during the May Day Labor Festival performance. He felt like an outsider and was anxious. So, he rushed to work despite his injury, dragging one leg. It was said that his mother had even carried him to work in the morning, acting as if the machinery factory couldn't function without her son.0

At the moment, Little Xu sat at his desk, his face dark with displeasure.0

Logically, he had no grudge against Zhuang Zhixi, but there were certainly some petty grievances.0

Little Xu believed he was justified in his actions. If he was teaching someone a skill, wasn't it natural for the learner to offer some benefits? After all, when he went to the countryside to show films, he would take bribes. Relying on his position to gain benefits was something he didn't think was wrong at all.0

Moreover, he hadn't even asked for money, just some gifts. Yet, the person had refused and quit. If it weren't for that, Old Cao wouldn't have gotten the opportunity. Thinking about it made him furious.0

Originally, he had planned to teach Zhuang Zhixi, but hold back on the crucial parts. Then, if Zhuang Zhixi made a mistake during the performance, he would urgently need Little Xu's help. At that critical moment, Little Xu would step in despite his injury, save the day, and surely earn praise from everyone, maybe even gain recognition from the leadership.0

Perhaps, he might even get a promotion. He had thought it through and planned it well.0

First, take advantage of the situation, then step on Zhuang Zhixi to rise in position. It was an excellent plan, milking the situation for all it was worth. As for what happened to Zhuang Zhixi, he didn't care. Whether he got reprimanded or not had nothing to do with him.0

He just wanted to move up.0

However, things took an unexpected turn. Zhuang Zhixi had unexpectedly backed out, giving up such a great opportunity to learn about film. This lack of ambition had ruined all of Little Xu's plans.0

Not only were his plans ruined, but the department had also assigned their family's "enemy," Old Cao, to take over. These days, he had been in deep trouble. The tricks he had planned to use on Zhuang Zhixi didn't work at all with Old Cao.0

During the afternoon film screening on Labor Day, Old Cao performed flawlessly, leaving no room for Little Xu to step in and save the day. He had heard that the performance was well-received, which was why he had come to work despite not fully recovering from his injury, fearing that his role as a film operator might be taken over.0

That couldn't happen.0

However, there was even worse news.0

Old Cao learning to operate the films was already a huge stressor, but upon returning to work, he found out that Zhuang Zhixi had been transferred to their department. This was something he had never expected. He had thought that Zhuang Zhixi had no backing and wouldn't be able to join their department. Now, he had misjudged the situation.0

He had inadvertently offended someone.0

He didn't consider Zhuang Zhixi a friend. When he was in the hospital, he had asked Zhuang Zhixi to buy him a chicken to recover, but the next day, Zhuang Zhixi didn't visit again. Clearly, Zhuang Zhixi was aware of the situation and likely had some issues with him. Little Xu frowned slightly, his expression dark as he looked at Zhuang Zhixi.0

However, Director Song certainly wouldn't care about Little Xu's expression or speculate about his thoughts. He continued to introduce: "Zhuang Zhixi's abilities are evident to everyone. Now that he's joining our Propaganda Department, our work will improve even more, contributing to the factory's success. Zhixi, since you're new here, you'll work with Master Huang. Any objections?"0

Zhuang Zhixi smiled: "Of course not. I'm very happy to work with Master Huang. He's already taught me a lot in the past, and I'm glad I can continue learning from him."0

Master Huang glanced at Zhuang Zhixi and said, "If you could talk less, that would be better."0

Everyone paused for a moment, then burst out laughing.0

Someone joked, "Zhuang Zhixi, Master Huang is saying you're a chatterbox!"0

Zhuang Zhixi didn't get annoyed; he just smiled and said, "Master Huang is tough on the outside but soft on the inside. He actually likes me a lot. Besides, talking is good; it complements Master Huang's quiet nature. Otherwise, it would be too quiet, right, Master Huang?"0

Master Huang didn't laugh, but the corner of his mouth lifted slightly: "You're really good at flattering yourself."0

Despite his words, everyone who had worked together for years could tell that Master Huang genuinely liked Zhuang Zhixi. People's expressions couldn't lie. Moreover, during the preparation of the joint performance, Master Huang had worked closely with Zhuang Zhixi. If he didn't like him, they wouldn't have spent so much time together.0

The people in their department all recognized that Master Huang was a talented and decent person, but also acknowledged that he had a bad temper and was hard to get along with. So, even though he was a good person, no one wanted to work with him.0

After all, no one wanted to spend a day without anyone speaking to them.0

And no one wanted to be yelled at for doing something wrong.0

It was just too much to handle.0

But Zhuang Zhixi seemed quite at ease. His presence also eased the tension of working with Master Huang, so everyone was in a good mood.0

Except for Little Xu, who was displeased and looked at Zhuang Zhixi with disdain. Everyone else seemed fine, and some were even happy. Without any competition, having an extra hardworking young man was certainly a good thing.0

Director Song saw the lively atmosphere and felt relieved. He smiled and said, "Zhuang Zhixi, take the desk over there, the one facing Master Huang's. Also, Master Huang, this new guy is under your wing. Introduce him to our department's work and the tasks you're responsible for. Don't be too tight-lipped, alright?"0

After finishing his introduction, he was about to leave when he remembered something and turned back: "Zhuang Zhixi, our factory also has a submission task. If you're interested, give it a try."0

Zhuang Zhixi: "Sure."0

He immediately added, "Director, I still have some things at the clinic. Can I go there in the morning to sort them out?"0

Director Song: "Sure, go ahead. Is everything else taken care of?"0

Zhuang Zhixi: "I handled the handover this morning."0

Director Song nodded slightly, feeling that Zhuang Zhixi was quite organized.0

"Alright, take care of it."0

Zhuang Zhixi had arrived early for work, mainly to go to the clinic first.0

The people at the clinic had already heard about his transfer, so they came earlier than usual to hand over his work. They were all happy for him, as moving up was always a good thing. Who wouldn't be happy for him to have a better future?0

There were no office politics in the medical room, and everyone was genuinely happy for him. They even reminded him to visit often since they were all in the same factory and would inevitably run into each other. It was true that people nowadays were not only well-informed but also quick to act.0

Just as Zhuang Zhixi was about to transfer, Doctor Wang's niece was arranged to join the medical room. She was eighteen years old, a recent high school graduate. Somehow, her family had managed to avoid sending her to the countryside and instead secured her a temporary job here.0

By rule, unless a woman was married, a temporary job couldn't be a reason to stay. However, Zhuang Zhixi didn't pry into the details, as it didn't concern him. He was glad he was the youngest in his family. When he graduated from high school, the mandatory rural reeducation policy had just started.0

Previously, it had been voluntary, and some naive individuals had signed up. But most people wouldn't think of it. Could urban kids really contribute to the vast countryside? It was clear they didn't even know how to use a hoe, only adding to the burden.0

Zhuang Zhixi had been clever. As soon as he graduated and saw the winds of change, he quickly found a formal job. Many of his classmates who hesitated ended up being sent to the countryside.0

Speaking of which, their generation had been relatively lucky. The policy was tightening even more now. Zhuang Zhixi felt fortunate to be the youngest, as his family didn't face the rural reeducation issue.0

The current policy required that any family with eligible youth must send at least one person to the countryside.0

If Zhuang Zhixi had a younger sibling, they would have to go, whether brother or sister. So he was glad he was the youngest. As for his nephews and nieces, Hu Tou and Xiao Yanzi, they were still too young. Hu Tou would only start first grade this fall.0

Zhuang Zhixi stopped thinking about it and walked to the medical room under his umbrella. However, as soon as he pushed the door open, he heard a commotion inside. He raised an eyebrow and asked, "What's going on?"0

Sister Cui, the nurse, smiled when she saw Zhuang Zhixi. "Little Zhuang, you're here! Take a seat first; we have a patient."0

The medical room wasn't usually busy. People with serious illnesses wouldn't come here; in the factory, it was generally believed that the medical room could only handle minor ailments like colds or small cuts. For anything more serious, people wouldn't trust them unless they wanted to save money.0

However, on rainy or snowy days, the medical room would get busier, as people often came in with minor issues like colds from getting wet or falls from slippery snow.0

Doctor Wang also came out from the ward and said, "Oh, you're here! I thought you'd come at noon."0

Zhuang Zhixi had finished his handover in the morning and didn't have time to pack up, so he had asked Doctor Wang for help, leaving his things with her. He smiled and said, "I had some time, so I came over. Thanks, Sister Wang."0

Doctor Wang waved it off. "Don't mention it; it's nothing."0

She added, "Oh, let me introduce you to my niece, Tao Yuyue."0

Zhuang Zhixi was meeting her for the first time. Although he had handed over his duties in the morning, it was with their director, and he had mostly been helping in the publicity department, so there wasn't much to hand over. He had heard there was a new recruit, but she had been busy with paperwork and wasn't there at the time.0

Upon seeing her, he immediately realized the factory would be lively from now on. Tao Yuyue was quite pretty, with a round, pleasing face that many would find attractive. With many unmarried men in the factory, things were bound to get interesting.0

However, Zhuang Zhixi only glanced at her and politely nodded, "Hello, Comrade Tao."0

He quickly looked away. As a married man, staring at a young lady wasn't appropriate. Zhuang Zhixi said, "Sister Wang, I..."0

"Woohoo, woohoohoo, woohoohoohoo..." A sobbing sound filled the room, intermittent and eerie, like a ghost at night. Zhuang Zhixi frowned, "This voice sounds familiar."0

Doctor Wang chuckled. "Of course, it's familiar. It's Aunt Su, Wang Xiangxiu's mother-in-law."0

She leaned closer to Zhuang Zhixi and whispered, "She brought Old Man Bai here. Oh my, you should have seen them. Old Man Bai was leaning on her shoulder, so close, their hands intertwined. It was so mushy, even newlyweds wouldn't be that clingy. And this aunt has been crying since she came in, now loud, now soft, like she's mourning at a grave."0

Zhuang Zhixi couldn't help but laugh. "Is she being that dramatic? Where's Bai Fendou? Isn't that his dad?"0

Doctor Wang rolled her eyes. "Bai Fendou brought his dad here, paid the fee, and left. What's the point of raising such a son? It's always Aunt Su taking care of him."0

Zhuang Zhixi rolled his eyes in disbelief but still leaned in curiously. As he did, he saw several people peeking through the door, eavesdropping. Seeing Zhuang Zhixi, Sister Cui immediately gestured for silence, and everyone leaned in, listening intently. Zhuang Zhixi didn't hesitate to join them.0

From inside the room came Old Man Bai's voice. "Sister Su, don't cry. Your tears are breaking my heart..."0

Zhuang Zhixi pressed a hand to his chest, while Doctor Li next to him almost gagged, clamping his mouth shut with force.0

"I know you care for me, worry about me. I've never met a kinder woman than you. To have you stay and take care of me, I'm truly grateful. It's more than I could have dreamed of..."0

Zhuang Zhixi also covered his mouth, trying not to gag.0

"How lucky I am to have met you in this lifetime..."0

Aunt Su, flattered, pretended to be shy, even though she was no longer young. She adopted a girlish coyness and softly said, "Old Bai, why are you saying that? You've helped me so much. Now that you're not feeling well, taking care of you is nothing. Don't mention it; even if it's cleaning up after you, I'd do it."0

Of course, she didn't really mean it. To secure a long-term benefactor, it wasn't about how much work she did for him. Doing too much would make it seem expected, so Aunt Su never overdid it.0

She knew better than to waste effort. What mattered was to step up at critical moments, like when he was sick and vulnerable, and show her dedication, no matter how dirty or difficult the task. Patients were already fragile; this would surely leave a lasting impression. With a few such instances, she was confident she could keep him under her control.0

Old Man Bai's wife had been dead for over twenty years. With his steady job and house, could he really not find a partner? Of course, he could. But she wouldn't let that happen.0

If Old Man Bai remarried, he wouldn't help her anymore.0

So from the start, she had to secure him. Now, after twenty years, she was sure her strategy worked.0

She said, "What would you like to eat for lunch? I'll go home and make it for you."0

Old Man Bai: "I have no appetite. Just seeing you makes my heart sweet, even if I don't eat anything..."0

Zhuang Zhixi finally couldn't take it anymore and stepped back, feeling queasy. He rubbed his chest and said, "Sister Cui, I think I can skip lunch today."0

He wasn't hungry anymore; he was full, in a sickening way.0

Doctor Wang laughed. "You can't handle it, can you?"0

Zhuang Zhixi: "I really can't."0

He picked up his cardboard box and said, "I'll head back to work now. Let's gossip another day."0

Doctor Wang chuckled. "Oh, stop it. I'm not one for gossip."0

Zhuang Zhixi chuckled and said, "That's me. Let's go."0

He held an umbrella with one hand and carried a cardboard box with the other, quickly stepping into the rain...0

Tao Yuyue watched his back and asked, "Auntie, can he handle that? Should we help?"0

Doctor Wang smiled and said, "No need."0

After a pause, she looked at her niece and said, "Zhuang Zhixi is married."0

Tao Yuyue's expression changed slightly, then she said, "Auntie, you're overthinking. I just wanted to help out, nothing more. Besides, you know I'm looking for a well-off family with a good background."0

Doctor Wang: "That's good that you know. But when choosing a partner, you can't be too materialistic. You also need to consider compatibility..."0

Tao Yuyue: "I understand."0

She lowered her head, but her eyes revealed a hint of disbelief. Her aunt had married well and lived comfortably, yet she was lecturing them about not caring about material conditions. If she didn't care, why did she marry so well herself? Tao Yuyue kept silent, putting on an obedient appearance.0

She had to be obedient. After all, she was still relying on her aunt to secure her promotion and introduce her to potential partners.0

Zhuang Zhixi was unaware of this little episode. He carried the box back, suddenly feeling someone following him. He turned around and saw Zhang San, smiling and saying, "Zhang San."0

Zhang San: "Let me help you."0

He helped Zhuang Zhixi hold the box and said, "You hold the umbrella."0

Zhuang Zhixi: "Thanks, I was really struggling with both."0

Trying to hold both the umbrella and the box was indeed inconvenient.0

Zhang San: "Hey, just say if you need help. No need to be polite. By the way, you came from the medical office, right?"0

Zhuang Zhixi nodded: "Yes."0

Zhang San immediately fired off a series of questions.0

"I heard you got noticed by the higher-ups and were transferred to the publicity department, is that true?"0

"I heard Bai Fendou's dad and Wang Xiangxiu's mother-in-law came together, huh? What's going on, are they expecting?"0

"I heard there's a very pretty girl in the medical office, is that true? Did you see her?"0

Each question was more important than the last.0

Zhuang Zhixi chuckled, amused: "Are you helping me or just here to gossip?"0

Zhang San: "Of course, it's to gossip, but I'm helping you too. Hey, is the girl pretty or not?"0

Although all the gossip was interesting, the last question was the most crucial. It was a sincere inquiry from a bachelor.0

Zhuang Zhixi: "I didn't really pay attention to how she looks."0

"What? How could you not notice? Did you not even see her?" Zhang San asked curiously.0

Zhuang Zhixi: "I saw her, just a glance. I didn't really care. If you want to know, go check her out yourself. Why ask me? I was more concerned about Old Man Bai and Aunt Su being there."0

Zhang San rolled his eyes: "Pfft, concern my foot. I bet you were just watching the drama."0

Zhuang Zhixi laughed.0

"So, is Aunt Su pregnant?"0

"Why do you always assume she's pregnant? She's that old, it's unlikely, right? Even if you're curious, you should consider reality. Theoretically, her age makes it impossible, doesn't it? Anyway, I'm here. If you're curious, go to the medical office yourself. You'll definitely catch some drama."0

He winked at Zhang San with a meaningful look. Zhang San immediately understood and said, "Alright, I'll go check it out."0

It seemed like there was going to be some juicy gossip.0

He quickly left, and Zhuang Zhixi shook his head with a smile, returning to the office.0

As soon as he entered, he heard Little Xu being sarcastic: "It feels like you've been gone for two years just to get something."0

Zhuang Zhixi didn't bother responding. Some people were just petty, and there was no point in engaging with them. Even if he tried to appease them, these petty people would still scheme against him when the time came. So Zhuang Zhixi simply ignored him.0

Besides, he wasn't even a leader. Director Song hadn't said anything, so who did Little Xu think he was?0

Zhuang Zhixi started organizing his things. Sister Cui from the next desk curiously asked, "Zhuang Zhixi, do you live in the same courtyard as Bai Fendou?"0

Zhuang Zhixi: "Yes, we do."0

Sister Cui's eyes lit up with excitement and she said, "Oh, you really do live in the same courtyard. Tell me, what's going on between Bai Fendou and Wang Xiangxiu? Are they together? And what about Old Man Bai and Wang Xiangxiu's mother-in-law... This morning when I came to the factory, I saw them being all lovey-dovey. Oh my~ They're treating the factory like their own bedroom, not even trying to hide it! Are they together or not?"0

Zhuang Zhixi: "Actually, I don't know."0

Sister Cui: "How can you not know? You live in the same courtyard!"0

Zhuang Zhixi pretended to sigh and said, "We do live in the same courtyard, but I really don't understand. If you ask if they're together, they deny it, and Wang Xiangxiu even claims to be Bai Fendou's sister. But if you say they're not together, they're definitely closer than most neighbors, so I'm confused."0

Even when gossiping, Zhuang Zhixi was measured.0

"Maybe in a few years, when I'm older and have more experience, I'll understand."0

Everyone laughed, and Sister Cui teased, "It has nothing to do with age... Are they still in the medical office?"0

Zhuang Zhixi: "Yes, they are."0

"Oh, I need to go to the restroom."0

Clearly, this person wanted to go check out the drama but found an excuse.0

"Sister Cui, wait for me, I also need to go to the restroom."0

"Me too."0

"And me."0

The female colleagues in the publicity department all went to the restroom together, each holding an umbrella and stepping out into the rain.0

Zhuang Zhixi shook his head with a smile, then packed up his water bottle and other things. Old Huang looked up at him and said, "Our work in the publicity department is quite varied, but it mainly revolves around the theme of publicity. Right now, we're mainly promoting..."0

He explained the general situation of the publicity department to Zhuang Zhixi, who listened attentively and nodded.0

Old Cao got up to get some water and smiled, saying, "Zhuang Zhixi is really diligent. Old Huang is a master at teaching, straightforward and without any tricks. You can learn a lot from him."0

The enemy of an enemy is a friend. Old Cao knew Zhuang Zhixi wouldn't like Little Xu, so he was happy to befriend him. Moreover, there was a hidden meaning in his words. Many in the department knew that back when Old Cao was still Little Cao, he had learned film projection from Little Xu, who had deliberately set him up to ruin a film reel, leading to his transfer to another position.0

Thinking of this, everyone smiled meaningfully.0

Little Xu gave Old Cao an unhappy look and sneered without saying anything.0

Zhuang Zhixi, being a tactful person, noticed that Master Huang's water cup was empty and said, "Master Cao, let me get some water for you."0

The water room wasn't in the office but at the end of the corridor outside. Old Cao didn't mind the few steps, but he was pleased to meet someone who was so considerate. He said, "Sure, thank you."0

Zhuang Zhixi: "No need to thank me, we're all colleagues."0

He got up and left, quickly reaching the water room at the end of the corridor.0

"Zhuang Zhixi."0

At that moment, someone called out. Zhuang Zhixi looked up and saw Bai Fendou at the door.0

In fact, he had been lurking nearby, waiting for Zhuang Zhixi to be alone so he could secretly approach him. He could have gone to the office to find him, but if he did, everyone would know he had talked to Zhuang Zhixi, and that could lead to trouble if someone tried to implicate him later. He was careful about covering his tracks.0

So he planned to pass on a message to Zhuang Zhixi when he was alone.0

Zhuang Zhixi raised an eyebrow, his eyes flickering with a hint of darkness. He hadn't expected Bai Fendou to be plotting against him. If he hadn't been warned by his mother earlier, he might not have been so cautious now.0

He smiled, but the smile didn't reach his eyes. Zhuang Zhixi turned and asked, "Is there something you need, Brother Fendou?"0

Although there had been several conflicts between their families, he was still polite, addressing him as "brother."0

Bai Fendou forced a smile, trying to appear friendly and said, "What, can't I find you if there's nothing going on?"0

Zhuang Zhixi: "Of course I can, but isn't this during work hours? If everyone slacks off during work hours, how will the factory develop?"0

He was always ready to throw on a big hat like that.0

Bai Fendou felt a bit awkward, but he quickly replied, "You're right."0

If it had been in the past, he would have definitely argued, regardless of whether he was right or wrong. That was his style of doing things. But today, he didn't argue at all. He wanted to scheme against Zhuang Zhixi, so he didn't want Zhixi to be unhappy and become wary of him.0

He forced a smile, even more unnatural than before. Zhuang Zhixi noticed and thought to himself that if his mother hadn't warned him, he might have sensed something was off by now. How could Bai Fendou think his acting could fool him?0

Did he look that stupid?0

Zhuang Zhixi felt that Bai Fendou was overthinking things.0

He dialed down his expression a bit and said, "Brother Fendou, what exactly did you come to see me for?"0

Bai Fendou quickly replied, "There's something good I want to ask you for help with."0

Zhuang Zhixi: "Oh?"0

Bai Fendou: "At two o'clock this afternoon, sneak out and come to the small warehouse. I have something good to give you."0

He put on a very mysterious look, but Zhuang Zhixi remained expressionless, feeling even more that Bai Fendou was acting strange. He gave a meaningful smile and said, "Two o'clock, the small warehouse?"0

Bai Fendou nodded and said, "Yes, come alone, don't bring anyone else. If we weren't from the same courtyard, this good thing wouldn't fall to you. I'm doing this because we're from the same courtyard. Just sneak in quietly. Don't tell anyone, or else there won't be any more good things for you in the future."0

As long as Zhuang Zhixi arrived, he would knock him out, strip him, and then trick Jiang Lu into the warehouse and lock the door. Even if they didn't do anything, they would still be in trouble. Thinking of this, Bai Fendou let out a cackle of laughter, feeling very pleased.0

Let you Zhuang Zhixi marry a good wife, let you show off, let you flaunt. Let's see what you do then.0

"Brother Fendou, you're being very mysterious, but you should at least tell me what it's about," Zhuang Zhixi said, looking into Bai Fendou's eyes.0

Bai Fendou: "Look, don't ask now, it's a secret. You'll know when you get there."0

Right now, he really couldn't think of a good secret to make up. So he just acted mysterious, saying seriously, "You can't ask too much now. Just come, and you'll understand everything."0

Zhuang Zhixi didn't play along, saying, "You don't explain it clearly, I'm not going. Who knows what you're planning!"0

He looked Bai Fendou up and down suspiciously and said, "You're not trying to steal something from the factory, are you?"0

He said sternly, "I'm telling you, don't even think about dragging me into this. If you dare to do it, I'll report it to the factory."0

"No, no, that's not it. Hey, what are you talking about? Am I that kind of person? Anyway, you have to come."0

Zhuang Zhixi sneered and said, "I'm not going!"0

Who did he think he was, ordering people around like that?0

Zhuang Zhixi: "If you don't explain it clearly, I absolutely won't go." After saying that, he turned and walked toward the office.0

Bai Fendou: "Hey, you..."0

He wanted to chase after him, but seeing everyone looking at him, he frowned angrily and decided to leave for now.0

There were too many people here, not a good place to talk. He would try again at lunch, during the noon break, to persuade Zhuang Zhixi. He really didn't understand why Zhuang Zhixi wasn't falling for it when he had been so mysterious.0

Why wasn't he following the script? Shouldn't he be eagerly agreeing by now?0

Sure enough, Zhuang Zhixi was not a good person, too many tricks up his sleeve.0

He snorted heavily and turned to leave.0

"This won't do, I'll have to wait until noon," he frowned, feeling that things weren't going to be easy. If there were too many people around at noon, what would he do? He rubbed his temples, thinking that the more difficult it was, the more he had to succeed.0

Bai Fendou muttered to himself, planning how to talk to Zhuang Zhixi again, but he didn't know that Zhuang Zhixi was also plotting against him.0

He could be sure that Bai Fendou wasn't up to any good, he just didn't know what kind of scheme he was plotting. Could it be stealing something from the factory? Very possible. Their factory was a machinery plant, with a lot of copper, iron, and rare metals that could fetch a good price.0

Could he be setting him up for that?0

Thinking of this, Zhuang Zhixi's gaze sharpened. If it really was that, he could even end up getting shot. If Bai Fendou really did that, then he was truly audacious, with the guts of a bear and the heart of a leopard.0

Was he really that crazy?0

And ​​‌‌​‌‌​​​‌‌​‌‌‌​​‌‌​‌‌​​‌‌​​‌​​​​‌‌​​​‌​​‌‌​‌‌‌​‌‌​​​‌​​‌‌​​‌​‌​​‌‌​‌‌​​​‌‌​‌‌​​‌‌​​​‌‌​‌‌​​‌​​​​‌‌​​‌‌​​‌‌​​‌‌​​‌‌​‌​​​​‌‌​‌​‌​​‌‌​​‌‌​​‌‌​​‌‌​​‌‌​​‌​​‌‌​​​‌​​‌‌​​‌‌​​‌‌​​​‌​​‌‌​​‌‌​​​‌‌​‌‌​‍if it was about the factory's materials, the factory would investigate thoroughly. He really shouldn't think he could stay out of it. Honestly, by normal standards, it wasn't that crazy or reckless, but Bai Fendou's mind was simple and unreliable, so it wasn't entirely unexpected.0

Zhuang Zhixi tapped his fingers on the table, then suddenly realized.0

No, it's not that.0

According to what his mother said, they mentioned "two people." If it was two people, then it probably wasn't about stealing... Two people, seduction.0

Zhuang Zhixi thought of this and immediately felt it made sense, but his expression turned ugly. If it was that, then Bai Fendou was truly vicious, involving a crime of hooliganism. If that happened, his life would be over.0

Forget about any future, if things got big, he would definitely end up in jail.0

This couldn't be compared to the last time with Zhou Qun, where there was no evidence.0

But if they were caught in the act...0

Zhuang Zhixi suddenly let out a cold laugh. He was someone who generally didn't seek trouble, but he also wasn't afraid of it. Since someone had already plotted against him, he didn't mind returning the favor.0

He wondered who Bai Fendou would find to set him up with. The most likely person was Wang Xiangxiu.0

But he probably wouldn't want Wang Xiangxiu's reputation to suffer, and Aunt Su came to the factory today... Could it be Aunt Su? He immediately felt a wave of disgust and shook his head to get rid of the nauseating thought, no, that couldn't be it.0

Old Man Bai wouldn't agree.0

Other people wouldn't collude with them... If not considering collusion, but aiming for a double blow... Jiang Lu!0

Zhuang Zhixi immediately thought of a suitable person. If Bai Fendou wanted to take revenge and hit two birds with one stone, setting him up with Jiang Lu would be the most fitting. This way, he could simultaneously hurt their family and the Zhou family.0

If they really wanted to set them up, Bai Fendou alone wouldn't be enough. He would need someone to help, one to lure him in, one to lure Jiang Lu in. This would have to be done simultaneously. His accomplice would undoubtedly be his father.0

Zhuang Zhixi had to admit, he really understood Bai Fendou quite well, and his analysis was spot on.0n/ô/vel/b//in dot c//om

At this moment, Zhuang Zhixi smiled...0

If they really were planning this, how could he not inform Zhou Qun?0

He didn't believe Zhou Qun would let Bai Fendou off the hook once he knew!0

******0

The lunch break bell rang, and Zhuang Zhixi, along with a few people from the propaganda department, headed towards the cafeteria. From afar, Bai Fendou followed again. There was no other way; he had to seize every opportunity to talk to Zhuang Zhixi alone, so he could only follow him like this.0

Zhuang Zhixi glanced back and saw Bai Fendou immediately signaling to him. Zhuang Zhixi, seeing his anxious look, didn't react.0

Just let him worry!0

Bai Fendou cursed in his heart, continuously gesturing with a "two."0

This meant two o'clock.0

Zhuang Zhixi actually couldn't understand Bai Fendou's mind. He had been so persistent in chasing after him, insisting on two o'clock. Wouldn't anyone be suspicious? Why did he think he hadn't been suspected at all?0

Maybe he was just so stupid that he thought everyone else was equally stupid.0

He suddenly smiled faintly, nodding slightly.0

Bai Fendou was stunned. Zhuang Zhixi stopped and seemed about to speak. Bai Fendou quickly waved his hand, gesturing with a "two" again, then quickly left.0

Zhuang Zhixi smiled. He knew that Bai Fendou wouldn't dare to approach him in front of everyone.0

"What's wrong?" Old Huang, seeing him stop, asked curiously.0

Zhuang Zhixi: "Bai Fendou in our courtyard is acting all mysterious and strange."0

Sister Cui: "Bai Fendou? Isn't he Old Man Bai's son?"0

Zhuang Zhixi: "Exactly."0

Sister Cui looked around and said, "That boy, he's not young anymore, yet he still doesn't settle down. He spends all his time hanging around widows."0

Zhuang Zhixi: "Who knows."0

They all headed to the cafeteria together. While getting their food, Zhuang Zhixi said, "I'll take a serving of cabbage, one steamed bun, and one steamed bread roll."0

He carried his tray and spotted Zhou Qun's table, but instead of sitting with him, he chose a table behind Zhou Qun. Because he sat there, a few others who came with him also joined him.0

Normally, one might not notice, but after a day in the propaganda department, Zhuang Zhixi could already tell who was friendly with whom.0

On the surface, everyone seemed to get along, but in reality, Old Huang, Old Cao, Sister Cui, and Sister Chen were close. They always walked together to eat. Zhuang Zhixi tagged along with Old Huang, blending in with their group.0

Once seated, Old Huang glanced around, pushed his tray with meat dishes forward, and said, "Here, have some."0

Zhuang Zhixi shook his head, "No need, I would have just gotten some if I wanted it."0

Times were tough, and he certainly wouldn't take someone else's meat dish.0

As he was about to speak, he noticed Doctor Wang approaching. She was alone, carrying her tray, and sat down with them, smiling, "You all arrived early."0

Sister Cui smiled, "Why are you alone?"0

Doctor Wang: "They'll come later. I came first, and then they'll come after. It's just to take turns so the clinic isn't left unattended. Plus, after yesterday's heavy rain, there are quite a few people today with sore throats and colds."0

Zhuang Zhixi: "That's right, even Uncle Bai from our courtyard is sick."0

Doctor Wang: "Him?"0

Doctor Wang made a disdainful face, hesitated, and whispered, "He's such an old rascal, always getting cozy with people in the clinic."0

Sister Cui and the others immediately widened their eyes. Although they had been to watch the commotion earlier, they didn't stay long. Now, hearing firsthand gossip from someone on the scene, they were naturally very curious.0

"So, he really has that kind of relationship with Aunt Su... Oh, wait, are they planning to give Bai Fendou a younger brother?"0

Zhuang Zhixi: "Can you guys be a bit more scientific about this?"0

Why does it always have to involve kids?0

Aunt Su doesn't look like she could have more children anyway.0

He glanced at Zhou Qun behind him, cleared his throat, and whispered, "Speaking of which, I feel like Bai Fendou is acting weird today."0

Before he could continue, someone chimed in.0

Doctor Wang: "I know."0

"You know?" Zhuang Zhixi looked at Doctor Wang in surprise. Wait, do you know what I'm about to say? With her interjection, he had to adjust his words... Before Zhuang Zhixi could steer the conversation back, Doctor Wang leaned in and whispered mysteriously, "Let me tell you, but you can't tell anyone else."0

"Go ahead, go ahead."0

"Yeah, we're all tight-lipped."0

"Yes, you can trust us."0

Doctor Wang nodded, "I trust you all."0

She whispered, "When I was in the clinic, I overheard Bai Fendou and Old Man Bai talking about something happening at two o'clock this afternoon, about luring someone to the small storage room... I think they're up to no good. Maybe they're planning to meet someone secretly."0

Zhuang Zhixi was surprised, "What? If they get caught doing something like that at the factory, won't they be embarrassed?"0

"Exactly."0

"What are these father and son up to?"0

"Who knows, should we go check it out this afternoon?"0

Zhuang Zhixi suppressed a smile and said seriously, "Whether you go or not, I'm not going. Bai Fendou and I live in the same courtyard. If he's really meeting someone secretly, it would be awkward for me to see it. We'd have to see each other every day."0

"That's true, you're neighbors."0

Zhuang Zhixi: "Exactly."0

"Hey, should we report this to the security department?"0

Sister Cui: "Bai Fendou is already in the security department. Besides, reporting it would just make us look bad."0

"Yeah, let's forget about it, it's none of our business."0

"True, probably just meeting Wang Xiangxiu."0

As they discussed, Old Huang spoke up, "If they're using the word 'lure,' then it's likely not voluntary. I think this isn't good, we should inform the security department."0

"Huh?"0

"That makes sense."0

Doctor Wang: "Well, I'm not sure if I heard it correctly. I just happened to pass by and overheard, so I can't be certain."0

Zhuang Zhixi shook his head, "What is this even about?"0

He really couldn't stand Bai Fendou. If you're going to do something bad, at least don't let it get out so quickly. This plan of yours is just terrible.0

However, he was sure that Zhou Qun behind him had heard everything. He had originally planned to find a reason to mention this to Zhou Qun, but now that Doctor Wang had brought it up, there was no need. Clearly, Zhou Qun had already heard.0

Zhuang Zhixi didn't need to guess to know that Zhou Qun would definitely go, and probably bring others along.0

After all, Zhou Qun was currently in the midst of a public scrutiny.0

Although no one openly talked about it, everyone was secretly wondering about him. Didn't you see? Among the electricians, he was the only one sitting alone, with no one else nearby. If Bai Fendou caused some trouble at the factory, the news would shift, and people might not focus on Zhou Qun as much.0

Even if they did, Bai Fendou would share the attention, and Zhou Qun would certainly be happy about that.0

Zhuang Zhixi's analysis of people was quite accurate. Maybe he wasn't great at analyzing others, but since they were all old neighbors, he could always grasp their personalities. He smiled and continued eating.0

Anyway, it had nothing to do with him.0

A clean and innocent little Zhuang.0

Zhuang Zhixi never once looked back at Zhou Qun. After finishing his meal, Zhou Qun quickly left, but he didn't go far. Instead, he went to the kitchen and stopped Yang Lixin, and the two headed to the back courtyard together.0

Zhuang Zhixi: "???"0

He glanced at them, then acted as if he hadn't seen anything and continued with his business.0

What's going on with these two? You should know that because Yang Lixin was a son-in-law who moved into his wife's family, Zhou Qun looked down on him, and they rarely interacted. Yang Lixin was closer to Zhuang Zhixi in the courtyard.0

Why are they together?0

This world is too complicated.0

Zhuang Zhixi silently sighed, preparing himself for whatever was to come.0

Although he didn't know exactly what would happen, with Bai Fendou's intelligence, whatever he plans will likely be in vain. After all, his surname is Bai (meaning "white" or "in vain")! No matter what they do, something is bound to happen this afternoon.0

Zhuang Zhixi lowered his head and stuffed the last bite of steamed bun into his mouth.0

Well, let's wait and see the show this afternoon.0

Meanwhile, in the middle of the day, Bai Fendou went to the clinic to find Old Man Bai, helping him to the bathroom. But in reality, the bathroom trip was just a cover to discuss their scheme.0

The father and son walked towards the factory's bathroom, and Bai Fendou whispered, "I've arranged with Zhuang Zhixi. At two o'clock this afternoon, he should come directly. You just need to lure Jiang Lu over, tell her that Zhou Qun is injured, and she won't ask any questions and will follow you."0

Old Man Bai: "Got it."0

Bai Fendou: "I'll hide in the corner of the room. As soon as Zhuang Zhixi arrives, I'll pin him down. Then, I'll hide by the door. When Jiang Lu enters, you push her hard, and while she's off balance, we'll come out and lock the door."0

Old Man Bai: "Alright, but they'll definitely make a scene."0

Bai Fendou: "That's fine. I'll run fast and get the security department to catch them in the act. They'll definitely get reprimanded, and their reputation will be ruined. This will also help the Xiu family get some revenge."0

Old Man Bai thought about it and nodded in agreement, but then said, "What if someone comes in the middle..."0

Bai Fendou: "If someone comes, so be it. Others finding out works too; they won't be able to explain themselves! Then, I'll throw Zhuang Zhixi's clothes outside the door, leaving him without clothes. Let's see what they do then."0

"Alright, but won't this cause a big commotion?"0

Old Man Bai felt that this matter seemed to be quite significant.0

However, Bai Fendou didn't think much of it. He said, "Even Zhou Qun getting mixed up with those old women didn't cause any major issues. I don't think anything too serious will happen this time either. At most, it's just a matter of losing face, and we're not really harming anyone."0

Old Man Bai: "Alright, let's do it!"0

He said, "Come on, let's go over the plan one more time to see if there are any loopholes."0

"Got it!"0

"We'll succeed in one go!"0

"It's a sure thing!"