Chapter 1755
Seventh Day of the New Year
Tuesday Morning
Though the New Year celebrations were over, it was time for the government offices to resume work, and the usual firecracker sounds had ceased.
Around seven in the morning, at the Number One Villa in the Beijing City Committee Family Compound, Dong Xuebing got up. After brushing his teeth and washing up, he came downstairs, where the smell of breakfast wafted towards him: soy milk, fried eggs, and sausages. This instantly lifted his spirits, and he happily went down to eat. Last night, he had dinner at his mother-in-law's house and, since it was late, decided to stay over instead of returning to his place.
"Mom."
"Oh, Xuebing, you're awake?"
"Yeah, is breakfast ready?"
"Hehe, just in time. Come and eat; I made it myself."
"Wow, you could've just asked the maid or called me. I feel bad making you busy so early in the morning."
"You and your politeness. Just come and eat."
"Hehe, alright. I love your cooking."
"Eat more if you like it. Your father is awake too; he's coming down."
"Okay, I'll wait for him so we can eat together."
After exchanging a few words with Han Jing downstairs, Xie Guobang also came down. The three of them sat at the dining table for breakfast. Dong Xuebing had been very busy dealing with superiors and entertaining subordinates during the New Year, so he was exhausted. He enjoyed this leisurely time much more than living alone. Here, he didn’t have to do anything upon waking up—breakfast was ready, and this was family. Dong Xuebing deeply valued these moments of family care. Sometimes, you don’t need to say or do anything. Just seeing your loved ones brings a certain peace of mind.
What is family?
To Dong Xuebing, this feeling was the answer.
During the meal, Han Jing smiled and asked, "How is it? Tasty?"
Dong Xuebing, full of food, mumbled, "Mmm, anything my mom cooks is delicious. It's amazing."
Dong Xuebing smiled wryly, "Mom, I’ve thought this through. I know you care about me, but you'll see that I’ve made the right choice in the future."
Han Jing sighed and said nothing more.
Xie Guobang added, "Do what you think is best. We support you here at home, so don’t worry about anything. We believe in your ability to handle your work."
Dong Xuebing was genuinely touched, "Thanks, Dad."
When Dong Xuebing first talked to Xie Guobang about this matter, his father-in-law didn’t ask many questions and expressed his support. Now, reiterating his support, Dong Xuebing felt very grateful. He wouldn't let his father-in-law's trust go in vain. Although he couldn't explain it now, Dong Xuebing was confident he'd achieve a Deputy Bureau director-level position quickly, which would be his way of repaying the family's trust in him.
After breakfast, Xie Guobang left first. Dong Xuebing tidied up and briefly chatted with Han Jing before driving to his office.
The festive atmosphere at the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) compound lingered with red banners still up. People gradually returned to work, looking tired than usual—a common sight after the long holiday break. Some were still visibly excited from the celebrations.
Dong Xuebing parked his car and got out. Ahead, his former superior in the Eighth Office, Zhu Weiye, was about to enter the office building. Spotting Dong Xuebing, Zhu Weiye stopped and greeted him, "Director Dong, here you are."
Dong Xuebing quickly walked up, "Oh, Director Zhu, happy belated New Year!"
"How was your holiday? You look well-rested," Zhu Weiye commented.
Dong Xuebing chuckled, "It was alright, not much rest."
Zhu Weiye nodded, "I heard you were working until the end, only getting six days off. By the way," he paused, looking around to ensure no one was nearby before continuing, "What's the deal? You just got promoted to Director of the Second Office and are now being transferred?"
Dong Xuebing feigned ignorance, "I’m not sure either."
Zhu Weiye didn’t buy it, "Come on, I’ve heard the news. Others probably know, too."
Dong Xuebing sheepishly smiled, "I honestly don’t know. I follow the arrangements. I'll go wherever I’m assigned."
"Going to the grassroots level?" Zhu Weiye asked.
"Seems like it," Dong Xuebing replied.
Zhu Weiye sighed, "Well, keep in touch. Before you leave, let’s have a meal together at my place if you have time."