Chapter 170: Big News
"When Uncle Yunheng graduates from Peking University, I wonder how high of an official he'll become!"
"Before, Uncle Jiu hired Liu Huakang to teach his children. Some people said he was wasting money. But now, it's clear that Uncle Jiu had a long-term vision. We rural folks must study hard to have a future!"
"My child, from today on, you must study hard. Even if I have to sell everything I own, I'll support you through your education. I don't expect you to get into Peking University like Uncle Yunheng, but if you can pass the entrance exam for a technical secondary school, you'll become a government official after graduation. That's a hundred times better than farming at home!"
"…"
As those who had gone out to work early in the morning returned for lunch, countless families across Help And Correct Brigade were abuzz with the news that Deng Yunheng had been admitted to Peking University. Almost every household with children in school was discussing this monumental achievement.
In addition to Yunheng's success, the other hot topic was Deng Shirong's invitation to the county drama troupe to perform The Legend of White Snake.
The appeal of dramas in this era was comparable to the concerts of top superstars in later generations. The villagers, especially the gossips, were thrilled. Those who lived nearby even planned to invite their relatives to come and watch the performance.
...
Double Prosperity Credit Union
Bu Wanhui, the director of the credit union, was in high spirits. His outstanding work had earned him praise from his superiors, and at just over 40 years old, he was in the prime of his career. His superiors had even hinted that, barring any unforeseen circumstances, he would be promoted next year and given greater responsibilities.
Much of his success, he believed, was thanks to Uncle Jiu from Thatchfield Village. Bu Wanhui regarded Uncle Jiu as his benefactor and had been thinking about finding time to treat him to a meal.
Just as this thought crossed his mind, he heard Uncle Jiu's voice greeting him: "Director!"
Bu Wanhui looked up and saw the very man he had been thinking about standing outside the counter with a warm smile.
He quickly stood up and greeted him with a smile. "Uncle Jiu!"
After exchanging a few pleasantries, Bu Wanhui asked, "Uncle Jiu, are you here to do business today?"
Deng Shirong waved his hand and smiled. "No, Director, I'm here to invite you to a celebration at my house in three days. My second son was fortunate enough to be admitted to Peking University in this year's college entrance examination. The clan is planning a banquet to celebrate, and I hope you can spare some time to join us for a drink."
Bu Wanhui was stunned. His expression shifted, and his attitude became even more enthusiastic. "Congratulations, Uncle Jiu! Your son is truly remarkable. Being admitted to Peking University means he has a bright future ahead. It's an honor to be invited to celebrate with you."
"Director, you're too kind!"
After a few more polite exchanges, Deng Shirong bid farewell and left.
As Bu Wanhui watched Deng Shirong leave, he began pondering what gift he should bring to the celebration in three days.
...
Treasure Mountain Village
Deng Shilan sat at the door of her house, smoking her water pipe after finishing two bowls of potato porridge. Life had been improving steadily since the land was distributed to each household.
This year, thanks to her younger brother's support, her daughter and son-in-law had been tending to the orchard and earning a steady 60 yuan a month. Her son had also been asked by her brother to learn how to cook.
Though Deng Shilan wasn't entirely sure why her son needed to learn cooking, she trusted that her younger brother had a plan.
Additionally, her brother often sent her son home with meat once or twice a month, significantly improving their family's diet. In the past, they were lucky to have meat once a month, and even then, they could only afford a few small pieces per person. Now, they could enjoy meat several times a month, thanks to her brother's generosity.
Life was becoming more hopeful by the day.
As Deng Shilan leisurely puffed on her pipe, Deng Yunheng rode up on his bicycle, sweating profusely, and called out from a distance, "Third Aunt!"
Seeing her nephew, Deng Shilan quickly set her pipe aside and greeted him with a smile. "Yunheng, what brings you here? Get off your bike and rest for a bit. I made some sweet potato porridge today. It's delicious. Let me get you a bowl."
Deng Yunheng handed her a package of pork and smiled. "Third Aunt, no need. I just had lunch at home before coming here."
Deng Shilan took the pork and said, "You came so soon. Why did you bring pork? Your dad often sends your cousin back with meat. This year, we've eaten more pork than in the past ten years combined!"
Deng Yunheng chuckled. "Third Aunt, I came to share some good news."
"What good news?" Deng Shilan asked, then her eyes widened in realization. "Yunheng, did you get into university?"
Deng Yunheng nodded with a smile. "Yes, I was admitted to university."
Deng Shilan was overjoyed. "That's wonderful! I knew you could do it. Which university did you get into?"
Deng Yunheng replied, "Peking University!"
Deng Shilan's eyes nearly popped out of her head. Though she hadn't received much education herself, she had asked around about the college entrance exam since her nephew was taking it this year. She knew that Peking University was one of the best in the country. Being admitted there meant her nephew was destined for greatness.
After a moment of stunned silence, Deng Shilan exclaimed, "That's incredible! It's such an honor for our family. This is truly a great honor!"
Seeing his aunt's excitement, Deng Yunheng felt a warm glow in his heart. "Third Aunt, since I was admitted to Peking University, the clan plans to hold a big celebration for me in three days. I came to invite you to join us for the celebration."
Deng Shilan beamed. "The clan is doing the right thing. I'll definitely be there the day after tomorrow."
Deng Yunheng added, "My dad has also invited the county drama troupe to perform for seven days and seven nights. He asked you to bring some clothes and stay with us for a while. At least stay long enough to enjoy the play."
Deng Shilan's excitement grew. "Your father is really going all out, inviting a troupe to perform. But your admission to Peking University is indeed a monumental event, worth celebrating in a big way. I haven't watched a play in years, and this time I'll get to enjoy it to the fullest!"
After finishing his business, Deng Yunheng said goodbye. "Third Aunt, I'll head out now. I still need to visit my uncle's house."
Deng Shilan, knowing he had other errands, didn't try to stop him. "Yunheng, it's so hot outside. Come in and have a bowl of water to quench your thirst before you go."
Deng Yunheng nodded, went inside to drink a bowl of water, and then rode off to his uncle's house.
(End of this chapter)