An Xin had no time to care about what other people thought. She spent her day productively, alternating between running a taxi and selling items from her portable warehouse. The results were satisfying.

Among her customers were two Chinese buyers who, saw their foreign friends shopping with An Xin, and also spent over 300 yuan on her goods. They even promised to return for more if the quality met their expectations. An Xin, ever the professional, responded with a cheerful demeanor, regardless of whether their promises were genuine.

A seasoned worker knows that a positive attitude is essential, even when unsure of outcomes.

Passing by the Provincial First People’s Hospital, An Xin made a quick stop to consult a gray-haired, elderly doctor. His dignified demeanor and calm presence marked him as one of the hospital’s most esteemed specialists.

After listening to her description, he nodded kindly and said, “From what you’ve described, it sounds like your mother has hyperthyroidism. Bring her here for a proper check-up so we can confirm and discuss treatment options.”

An Xin, sensing his genuine concern, quickly expressed her gratitude. “I’ll bring her in tomorrow, Doctor. Is that alright?”

Thinking ahead, she considered asking for his contact details but realized that, in this era, business cards or phone numbers might not be common. Instead, she asked respectfully, “May I know your name, Doctor?”

While doing so, she subtly handed him a carton of cigarettes—a small gesture to grease the wheels, as relationships often required such tokens in these times.

The doctor glanced briefly at the offering but shook his head. “Miss, you can keep those. My name is Song Tianxiang. It’s my duty to help, and I can’t accept gifts. Just bring your mother, and we’ll see how to treat her.”

Still holding out the cigarettes, An Xin insisted with a polite smile. “Doctor, I’m unfamiliar with the city and don’t have any connections here. Please accept this small token of appreciation.”

But Dr. Song remained firm, gently pushing the carton back toward her. “Save your money for the treatment. A surgery, if needed, will cost around a thousand yuan. Don’t waste it on unnecessary expenses.”

Moved by his integrity, An Xin felt a pang of guilt. Doctors with such high ethical standards were rare; her own cynicism had nearly clouded her judgment. She looked at him with newfound respect and said sincerely, “Thank you, Dr. Song. I’ll bring my mother tomorrow.”

The doctor nodded approvingly. “When you arrive, just mention my name to the nurse.”

Despite her youth, Dr. Song noted how An Xin conducted herself with a maturity and practicality that suggested she’d faced many challenges. He admired her resourcefulness but felt fortunate that she had come to him, knowing others might have taken advantage of her circumstances.

An Xin straightened her posture and thanked him earnestly.

Leaving the hospital with a lighter heart, An Xin decided to finish her work early. Passing by a market, she considered buying groceries but quickly remembered that her warehouse had everything she needed. The saved money could be put to better use elsewhere.

As the sun reached its zenith, the geological exploration team found a shaded spot to rest and eat. The men gathered around, unpacking their meals of white steamed buns, pickled vegetables, and cold water. Bai Yichen, finishing his task last, joined them a bit later.

Unlike the others, his meal stood out. From the insulated lunchbox his wife had prepared, he pulled out steaming hot white rice porridge, golden pan-fried dumplings, and a small dish of fragrant mushroom meat sauce. The simple yet appetizing spread was a stark contrast to the cold, dry buns and pickles around him.

Taking a sip of the porridge, Bai Yichen savored its perfect warmth and richness. He dipped a crispy dumpling into the meat sauce, the flavors exploding in his mouth, leaving him rejuvenated. A faint smile tugged at his lips as he continued to enjoy his meal.

Not far away, Wang Aiguo, biting into his bland steamed bun, happened to glance at Bai Yichen’s meal. His eyes widened, and he couldn’t contain himself.

“Whoa! Captain’s lunch looks like a feast compared to ours!”

Hearing this, the other men looked up from their buns and pickles, all eyes locking onto Bai Yichen’s food.

Bai Yichen, calmly putting a dumpling in his mouth, raised an eyebrow at their gawking. “What’s the matter? Eat your food. Why are you all staring at me?”

Unfazed, Wang Aiguo walked over, holding his plain bun. The enticing aroma of the mushroom meat sauce made his mouth water, and his own meal suddenly felt like punishment.

Without hesitation, he plopped down beside Bai Yichen, shamelessly eyeing the food. “Captain, this steamed bun’s pretty dull. How about sharing a bit of that sauce?”

Bai Yichen’s portions were just enough for himself. The only thing he could get was the plate of mushroom meat sauce in Bai Yichen’s hand.

Damn, Captain’s life really leveled up after marriage. Breakfast was dumplings, and now it’s pan-fried dumplings with meat sauce!
That sauce looks so good. Just the smell is making me hungry all over again!