The Qingshui Brigade was really lively today. Previously, everyone thought Gu Chengze was going to meet a match at the Xu family, but this morning, the Gu family unexpectedly visited the Tang family instead. 

While everyone was surprised, they also felt it wasn’t too strange; after all, Tang Momo was now a factory worker. Many had developed their own little thoughts after learning she had become a worker, so it was quite normal for the Gu family to bring up the idea of matchmaking with the Tang family. 

But fortunately, most people were concerned about face. People who previously looked down on Tang Momo’s family were too embarrassed to come to their door now. After all, they were afraid of being rejected. Wouldn’t that be even more embarrassing? 

Also, before those with thick skin could show up, Gu Chengze had already made his move. Everyone felt that the matter must be done and began to speculate on how soon the two people would get married. 

But unexpectedly, within just an hour, news broke that Tang Momo had rejected him. 

“That can’t be right! She looks down on someone like Gu Chengze? What kind of man is she hoping for?” 

“She just became a worker and already has high hopes. Does she think she can marry an official?” ” 

“Exactly! They said Tang Momo was practical, but her ambitions seem to have soared. Let’s see what kind of partner she’ll be looking for in the future.” 

Fortunately, Zhao Xiuli stepped in to explain, “The girl from the Tang family is still young. She just started working and said she wants to help her family. She also mentioned that she’s not rushing into marriage. We’re the ones at fault for not understanding the situation.” 

It was indeed too hasty on their part, and Zhao Xiuli would not let Tang Momo bear the blame. 

“That’s true. She just started working, and with three younger siblings at home, the burden is heavy. If she got married, she wouldn’t be able to keep supporting her family forever.” 

Because of Zhao Xiuli’s words, everyone’s attention turned again. They felt that Tang Momo was really filial and would rather delay her marriage for two years for the sake of her younger siblings. 

The Xu family had thought the matter was settled, but no one expected Tang Momo to refuse. 

This gave them hope; since it didn’t work out, Gu Chengze would still need to keep looking for a match. 

“During these days, you should behave and show off in front of Gu Chengze’s grandmother,” Mother Xu quickly decided.  

Xu Xiaoyun clenched her palms so tightly that her nails are digging into her hands. She still couldn’t believe that Tang Momo rejected Gu Chengze. 

She obviously had such thoughts before, didn’t she?  

“It’s normal for this girl from the Tang family to disagree. She’s now a worker, and she might want to find someone who also works so that she can take better care of her mother’s family.” 

The Xu family began to speculate on the reason for Tang Momo’s refusal. 

Xu Xiaoyun slowly let go of her hand. For a moment, the feeling in her heart was indescribable. 

Marrying Gu Chengze was originally her goal, but now Gu Chengze did not choose her but chose Tang Momo, whom she hated, and was even rejected by her. 

Although the two are friends in the eyes of outsiders, only Xu Xiaoyun knew the darkness in her heart. 

She didn’t like Tang Momo at all; she had first envied her, then it turned to jealousy. Why did she have to do all the chores at home and yield to her brother, while Tang Momo didn’t have to do anything, and even her younger brother had to accommodate her?  

Not to mention that her father had an iron rice bowl that everyone envied. Before Tang Dajun passed away, many people said that Tang Dajun would be assigned a house in his work unit in two years, and then his family could go to the city. 

If Tang Momo entered the city, the gap with them would only get wider and wider. At that time, she was crazy with jealousy. 

Later, when Tang Dajun had his accident, Tang Momo not only lost the chance to enter the city but also became a burden that everyone despised. No one but herself know that Xu Xiaoyun’s was secretly happy inside. 

After being suppressed by Tang Momo for so many years, she was finally able to step on her. In the past two years, she had watched with cold eyes as the situation at Tang Momo’s family worsened day by day. 

Seeing that she had to work during the day and go in the mountains at night to make a living, the formerly glamorous Tang Momo finally became like her and even lived an even more miserable life. How could Xu Xiaoyun not be happy? 

Even when Tang Momo died early in her previous life, she only felt it was a pity that Tang Momo wouldn’t see her own success. 

Starting over, she didn’t take Tang Momo seriously at first. After all, she had more important things to do. 

But she didn’t expect that Tang Momo would bring about such a big change this time.  

“Did you hear what I said? If you’re unwilling, then marry whoever offers the highest betrothal gift in the future.” 

Seeing that she was silent, Mother Xu couldn’t help but feel angry. 

Even though she felt sorry for her daughter, her family had to survive, which family wasn’t using their daughter’s betrothal gift to help they’re with their son’s marriage. 

Not only could Gu Chengze’s family afford the bride price, but they were also nice people, and they didn’t have any serious elders in the family. If she missed this opportunity, she shouldn’t blame them later. 

Bai Lu thought today would be a success and had generously given Xu Xiaoyun some lipstick and powder, but now, with the other party not even showing up, it felt like a waste. 

No, she has to get these things back. 

Xu Xiaoyun was feeling a bit flustered after her earlier excitement. She stood up and glanced at everyone’s expressions, then said softly, “I’ll go back and clean up first.” 

After returning from the Tang family and telling Zhao Xiuli what he thought, Gu Chengze went back to work. 

The looks from the people around him didn’t affect Gu Chengze. Although this meeting failed this time, Tang Momo made him understand one thing. 

Marriage is a lifelong event, and his previous thoughts about marriage were not only irresponsible to himself but also irresponsible to the other party. 

What he needs to think clearly now is whether the reason why he is willing to meet Tang Momo is to satisfy Zhao Xiuli’s wish or whether he is really willing to marry Tang Momo. 

Of course, the most pressing question was his true feelings for Tang Momo. Was his special admiration to her was because he could hear her thoughts? 

The people around him looked at Gu Chengze, who looked the same as usual. He seemed not to be affected by this incident, and everyone’s interest in watching the excitement faded. 

After all, Gu Chengze was a soldier with a monthly allowance. Would he really lack a wife? Instead of worrying about him, they might as well focus on their own affairs. 

With no topic to discuss regarding Gu Chengze, the conversation shifted back to Tang Momo. 

Because of Zhao Xiuli’s explanation, everyone was praising Tang Momo for her filial piety, and then everyone talked about Zhang Xiaoli. 

They discussed how difficult it had been for her to raise four children alone over the past two years, but she had finally made it through.  

The people from the Tang family probably regretted it now. When the talk what the reaction of the Tang family would be, everyone’s tone began to turn gloating. 

Zhang Xiaoli couldn’t help but breathe a sigh of relief when she heard Zhao Xiuli’s explanation. Fortunately, their family was not narrow-minded. Otherwise, if they took the opportunity to tarnish Momo’s reputation, they wouldn’t be able to save it even if they jump into the Yellow River. 

There had been similar instances before where failed meetings led to the rejected party spreading rumors about the other. 

Fortunately, both Zhao Xiuli and Gu Chengze were decent people. Thinking about this, Zhang Xiaoli actually felt a little regretful. After all, Gu Chengze was really a good match. 

She blamed herself a little, thinking that it was her family that was dragging down Momo. If her husband was still here, Momo wouldn’t have to think so much. 

She was obviously still a child, but now she’s already considering her three younger siblings. Zhang Xiaoli couldn’t help but sigh; she hoped that the matter at the shoe factory would be resolved quickly. 

With a bicycle, Tang Momo went into the city much faster. When she went to the office to return the bicycle, Yang Jianlin was a little surprised. “Have you settled everything at home?” 

Tang Momo nodded. “It’s almost solved. Thank you, Brother Yang.” 

“My aunt said that the matter at the shoe factory has been settled over there. I guess they will notify you about going to work soon.” 

“That’s great, Brother Yang. I really want to thank you for this.” 

Tang Momo looked grateful. She really didn’t expect that this matter would be resolved so quickly. 

“It’s just a small matter. Your rest day is not over yet. Go back and have a good rest. You will be very busy tomorrow.” 

Yang Jianlin’s tone was cheerful.  

“Did the reform meeting pass?” 

Although Tang Momo had already guessed the result for a long time, she was still happy. 

“Well, Director Wu attaches great importance to this reform and strives to surpass the sales volume of the second factory this time.” 

Yang Jianlin knew that if it succeeded, Tang Momo would definitely be the major contributor. 

“That’s great, I’ll go organize my things then.” 

Tang Momo guessed that the Qingshui Brigade would receive the news that the little fruits would be needed tomorrow. 

She wondered what additional fruit varieties Director Wu planned to expand. There was a high possibility that she would choose the ones that the public was familiar with to avoid risks. 

Tang Momo looked at the time and saw that it was almost noon. She would go to the canteen to have a meal and inquire about the house in the afternoon. 

The matter at the shoe factory has been resolved. It is estimated that they will notify Zhang Xiaoli to go to work soon, so she has to quickly find a place to settle her family quickly. 

She doesn’t know if she can rent a house in the city at this time. Thinking of this, Tang Momo couldn’t help but feel a little troubled. 

Tang Momo happened to meet Wang Qian and the others when she came out of the canteen. Most people in the workshop were at work today. 

“Didn’t you go home? Why are you back so soon?” 

Wang Qian was a little confused. Her work started tomorrow, so why had she come back early? 

“Something happened.” 

Tang Momo suddenly thought that they all came from dual-income families and asked if they might have some connections. 

After returning to the dormitory, Tang Momo briefly explained the situation and finally looked at the other people. “Do you know any way to quickly find a suitable house?” 

If it really came down to it, they could stay in a guesthouse for a few days, but that was clearly not a good option. 

“It might be a bit difficult since it’s not officially allowed, but if we ask around, we should be able to find something.” Wang Qian touched her chin. She seemed to remember that the yard next door to her grandparents’ place was empty. 

When she had time, she could ask about it.  

“Thank you. I really appreciate your help in this matter” 

Since moving to the city, Tang Momo felt like her luck had changed; everything she did seemed particularly fortunate. 

After talking about this, everyone returned to the topic of new mooncakes being launched in the factory this year. 

“I heard that this was your suggestion to Director Wu. Momo. You’re really impressive.” Tang Momo’s another roommate, Hu Jie, looked at Tang Momo with envy. 

They also heard that Tang Momo became a publicity officer because of these suggestions. 

“Oh, it’s nothing. I just like to read all sorts of books, so I know a bit more,” Tang Momo replied, feeling a bit guilty since it felt like cheating.  

Everyone’s talk revolved around this year’s new flavors. Hu Jie said excitedly, “I heard there’s a salted egg yolk flavor, which sounds delicious. I am looking forward to it.”  

“The taste remains the same every year, but with so many new flavors coming out this year, we will definitely be able to surpass the second factory.” 

When everyone mentioned this, their blood boiled with excitement. 

“I heard they’ve even made new molds, and the packaging will be redesigned. Everything is different with a new official in charge.” Wang Qian couldn’t help but lower her voice at the last sentence. 

This chat made Tang Momo get closer to them. Tang Momo decided that she would go to the shoe factory again later, after all of them went back to work, to see if the specific arrangement had been set. 

*** 

Today was the last day the factory had given her, and Tang Xiaoxue hadn’t yet figured out how to bring it up with her family. 

Including Qiu Ming, he knew about the three hundred yuan his in-laws and sister-in-law had given her. Although that money had been spent on their small family and child over the past two years, he feared his in-laws might think she had tricked them out of it. Thinking of these three hundred yuan, she hated Zhang Xiaoli and her daughter more. 

Because this matter had spread in the factory, everyone looked at her with disdain, which made Tang Xiaoxue feel very uncomfortable. 

Even if the factory doesn’t ask her to leave, she couldn’t tolerate such environment for long. 

After this major setback caused by Zhang Xiaoli and Tang Momo, she was determined not to let them go easily. 

***  

Tang Momo went straight to the union, and this time she met Yang Wenyun, the vice chairman of the union, who was Yang Jianlin’s aunt. 

Yang Wenyun was surprised for a second when she heard the news that Tang Momo was coming. Then she looked at Tang Momo. Seeing Tang Momo, she became even more certain of her earlier suspicions. 

This girl was so charming; it seemed Jianlin had finally found someone he’s interested in. Thinking like this, the smile on her face became gentler. “Xiao Tang, right? Jianlin has already told me about your family’s affairs. Our union has investigated in the Qingshui Brigade, and what you said is basically true. Tang Xiaoxue won’t be coming to work tomorrow. Who does your family plan to send in her place? If you’re ready, they can start tomorrow.” 

“So soon?” Tang Momo exclaimed in surprise; the housing issue hadn’t been resolved yet. 

“Is there still an issue at home that haven’t been resolved yet?” 

Probably out of personal interest, Yang Wenyun showed extra patience toward Tang Momo. 

Thinking that the union was there to help workers solve their problems, Tang Momo told her family’s current situation without any burden. “If my mother comes to work, there will be three younger siblings at home and there’s no one that can take care of them, and if we bring them, there’s no place to stay.” 

Tang Momo looked at Yang Wenyun with a distressed look on her face. “Vice Chairman Yang, is there any way for the factory to arrange housing for them? I’m willing to pay.” 

How could Yang Wenyun not see through Tang Momo’s little scheme, but she didn’t feel disgusted at all. In her opinion, as long as it didn’t harm anyone, it was acceptable. 

“I’ll help you inquire, but I can’t guarantee the result. Tang Xiaoxue won’t be here tomorrow. You guys should come here as soon as possible; otherwise, the workshop director will not be happy.” 

“The factory will also be busier in the second half of the year than in the first half.” 

“Okay, I’ll let them know to come over as soon as possible.”  

Tang Momo decided to go around and inquire about houses by herself. If it was still early, she would go back and borrow a truck to move all the things at home. 

It wasn’t until Tang Momo left that Yang Wenyun slowly withdrew her gaze. This girl looked pretty good, but she wondered what Jianlin was really thinking. 

Her older brother and sister-in-law were worried about him every day, while he acted as if nothing was wrong. 

Although this girl’s family situation is a bit poor, she heard that she is quite capable and can be considered a major contributor to the reform of the food factory. 

On the other hand, Tang Xiaoxue didn’t go to the canteen after work. Her mother-in-law cooked every day, and she saved her meal tickets to exchange for money. Although one ticket didn’t exchange for much, after a year, it would still be enough. It can be exchanged for a lot of money. 

Despite working for the past two years, she has to give half of her monthly salary to her maternal family, so she has almost no extra money on hand. 

Just as she left the workshop, she noticed some people looking at her and then point in a certain direction. Startled, Tang Xiaoxue followed the direction and saw Tang Momo’s figure. 

Is this girl so eager to come to work? She wasn’t supposed to leave until tomorrow. Feeling displeased, Tang Xiaoxue walked over to Tang Momo with a questioning tone, “Tang Momo, what are you doing here?” 

Tang Momo didn’t expect that Tang Xiaoxue would still look confident at this time. She didn’t know who gave her the courage. Remembering a meme about “courage” from the internet, she chuckled lightly and replied casually, “What do you think I’m doing here? I’m here to get my father’s job back.” 

“Why would a girl who’s going to get married soon need to work? It should be Jianan taking the job, not you.” 

Tang Xiaoxue was reluctant for her to take this job, so she thought it would be better to let Tang Jianan take over the job than Tang Momo. 

“Are you talking about yourself, aunt? A married woman who used despicable means to take my father’s job? At least I’m his biological daughter, unlike you, an outsider.”  

It seems that Tang Xiaoxue still doesn’t know that she’s working in the food factory, which means that she has not contacted the Qingshui Brigade in the past few days. 

Tang Momo’s words were met with agreement from those around them. 

“You’re not making sense, Tang Xiaoxue. It’s shameless of you to take a widow’s job and then say she don’t qualify to fill in. What gives you the right to say that?”  

“Aunt, you’re really good at playing double standards, but sorry to disappoint you. I already have a job, and this job is being taken over by my mother. As for Jianan, he still has to go to school, so he doesn’t need you to worry about it.”  

“What kind of job can you get as a junior high school graduate? Could it be that you are deliberately trying to deceived me?” 

Tang Xiaoxue didn’t want to believe that Tang Momo could find a job. 

“I’m the publicity officer of the food factory. I heard that our factory and the shoe factory are considered brotherly units so you should be able to see me later, aunt.” 

“Oh, but you probably won’t get the chance. After all, you’ve been fired from the shoe factory. I can’t believe I forgot that.” 

Most of the people who gathered around to watch the excitement were people whom Tang Dajun knew, and now that they heard that his daughter Tang Momo was able to secure a job as a publicity officer. They were happy for her but couldn’t help asking how she accomplished it. 

In no time, Tang Momo was surrounded, while Tang Xiaoxue suddenly found herself alone. 

Tang Xiaoxue shot an envious glance at Tang Momo in the crowd. No wonder Yang Wenyun had treated her that way; she knew that Yang Wenyun’s nephew was the factory director’s secretary. 

With that information, Tang Xiaoxue figured Tang Momo got her job at the food factory through Yang Jianlin. She wondered when they had gotten close, and if he was willing to help her before they were even married, what would happen afterward? She couldn’t let her succeed. 

Tang Xiaoxue quickly calmed down. Although she didn’t know how Tang Momo had gotten close to Yang Jianlin, there was no doubt that she must have relied on her face. 

With that thought, Tang Xiaoxue suddenly had an idea.  

The Yang family is a cadre family. There was no way they would agree to let a girl from the countryside enter their family. Yang Wenyun’s brother and sister-in-law likely had no idea about this. 

Tang Xiaoxue glanced in Tang Momo’s direction with a look of hatred, then quickly turned around and left. This matter couldn’t end like this. 

***

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