Colorful years

Although the third brother, Liangliang, was still young, he seemed to understand his older brother's predicament. He secretly resolved to study harder and become an outstanding person like his brother.

In the days that followed, Zhang Cong remained busy with work. However, he always kept in touch with his family by phone and letter, showing concern for their lives and health.

Whenever he has free time, he sends money and items back home to let his family feel his love and filial piety.

Although Shi Daya missed her son, she also knew how hard he had worked. She often boasted about her son's achievements and filial piety in the village, letting the villagers know that the Zhang family had produced a promising child.

"My son Cong'er is such a promising child. After graduating from university and starting work, he was even seconded to the county committee to write reports!" Shi Daya said proudly.

The villagers all looked on with envy.

"Wow, your Zhang Cong is really amazing!"

"This child has been smart since he was little, and now he's really made something of himself!"

Whenever she hears the villagers' envious looks and words of praise, Shi Daya's heart is filled with pride and satisfaction.

On Lunar New Year's Eve, although their son Zhang Cong did not come home for the family reunion, Zhang Zhong and Shi Daya were very happy thinking about how he was working hard for the happiness of millions of families.

They knew that their son's work was meaningful, and that his efforts would bring happiness and well-being to more people.

In the evening, Zhang Zhong's family sat around the table. Although Zhang Cong was not there, their hearts were still filled with warmth and happiness.

They enjoyed a sumptuous New Year's Eve dinner, discussing the past year's achievements and their hopes for the future.

They believe that as long as the family works together, the future will be even brighter.

Zhang Cong's New Year's Eve dinner was rather special. He had come to Minister Wu's home at his invitation and spent a joyful and lively New Year with his family.

Speaking of Minister Wu and his wife, Ms. Chang, they were truly a couple with a unique story. Both of them were remarried and both worked for the county committee.

Minister Wu served as the Propaganda Minister of the County Party Committee Standing Committee, while Ms. Chang served as the Chairwoman of the County Women's Federation.

Minister Wu had lost his wife in middle age, and so had Ms. Chang; perhaps it was fate that brought them together. Before this, they already had a good impression of each other, so their eventual union seemed quite natural.

Despite being a section-level leader, Ms. Chang truly fulfilled her role as a virtuous wife and loving mother.

Minister Wu and his ex-wife have two sons. The elder son has graduated from high school and started working, while the younger son is currently in junior high school.

As for Ms. Chang, she did not have any children with her ex-husband, but she and Minister Wu later had a lovely child together, and the little guy is now four years old!

It is worth mentioning that Ms. Chang is from Changsha and was assigned to work in Dayong after graduating from university. Since she already had a high opinion of the cadres in the propaganda department, she couldn't help but feel more enthusiastic and close to the talented Zhang Cong.

At the same time, Minister Wu himself is outstanding in ability and has a unique vision. He especially values ​​talent, so he also attaches great importance to Zhang Cong and likes him very much.

That's why, when Zhang Cong was a guest in such a warm and welcoming family home, he didn't feel any restraint at all; on the contrary, he acted very casually and at ease.

The table was laden with delicious dishes. In addition to the three main dishes of Tujia cuisine, namely braised pig's head with rock ear fungus and braised free-range chicken, and braised kelp with pig's feet, there were also more than a dozen dishes such as the eight bowls of Yongcheng cuisine and some Tujia stir-fries, which was quite abundant.

The minister and his wife frequently served food to Zhang Cong, creating a very harmonious and happy atmosphere.

Looking at the table laden with delicious food, Zhang Cong felt a surge of warmth in his heart. He knew that this was more than just a meal; it was a testament to the minister and his wife's care and recognition of him.

He looked gratefully at Minister Wu and Madam Chang, who were all smiles and had loving eyes.

"Xiao Zhang, come on, try this stewed chicken with rock fungus, it's so delicious!" Minister Wu said as he poured a spoonful of stewed chicken with rock fungus into Zhang Cong's bowl.

Zhang Cong nodded his thanks quickly, savoring the flavor. The delicate fragrance of the rock fungus and the freshness of the free-range chicken blended perfectly, making it truly delicious.

"Delicious, absolutely delicious! Minister, Aunt Chang, thank you so much for your hospitality," Zhang Cong said sincerely.

Upon hearing this, Mrs. Chang beamed with joy. "I'm glad you like it! I'm glad you like it! Come to our house for meals often, and I'll cook delicious food for you every day."

Zhang Cong smiled and nodded, secretly moved. He knew that the minister and his wife treated him like their own son, and he would never forget this kindness.

At the dinner table, everyone ate and chatted in a very lively atmosphere. Minister Wu talked about his struggles in his youth, while Ms. Chang shared her experiences working at the Women's Federation.

Zhang Cong listened with great interest, nodding in approval from time to time.

"Zhang Cong, your writing is indeed excellent. You must remain humble, cautious, and not arrogant, and strive for even greater progress," Minister Wu said earnestly.

Upon hearing this, Zhang Cong's expression turned serious. "Minister, rest assured, I will work hard and live up to the organization's expectations!"

Minister Wu nodded in satisfaction. "Good, good, I'm relieved to hear that."

Chang Shi chimed in, "Yes, Zhang Cong, you'd better work hard. We have high hopes for you, don't let us down."

Upon hearing this, Zhang Cong felt a surge of pride.

Time flew by, and before they knew it, it was evening. Zhang Cong bid farewell to the minister and his wife and returned to his dormitory.

On New Year's Eve, Zhang Cong spent the night alone in his dormitory. Listening to the sound of firecrackers outside the window, a wave of homesickness washed over him. He knew that his family must be missing him at that moment as well.

On the morning of the first day of the Lunar New Year, Zhang Cong got up early. After washing up and putting on clean clothes, he went to the county government compound. The compound was already decorated with lanterns and colorful decorations, filled with a festive atmosphere.

He entered his office, pondered for a moment, and then began writing the materials for the three-level cadre expansion meeting.

……