Sure, here is the translated text: Actually, when it comes to close people, both of them thought about their hometown. The only close family Luo Anguo had in Kao Village was his eldest brother’s family. The next day, Beisitian went to the supply and marketing cooperative to buy some cigarettes and alcohol, and then went to the brigade with Luo Xudong. Mrs. Qin and Luo Anguo were quite happy to see the two of them go out on their own, but Luo Xuping was pouting and unhappy because his sister didn’t take him along on the outing. Xu Youcai was surprised to see them again so soon after their visit the previous day, and they were carrying things in hand. ɴᴇᴡ ɴᴏᴠᴇʟ ᴄʜᴀᴘᴛᴇʀs ᴀʀᴇ ᴘᴜʙʟɪsʜᴇᴅ ᴏɴ 𝘯𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘭•𝘧𝘪𝘳𝘦•𝘯𝘦𝘵 "You’re here, but why bring things!" Xu Youcai murmured to himself, suspecting they were here to ask for a favor. "Director Xu, we’d like to take a look at the records of item transactions from six years ago," Beisitian said with a smile. This wasn’t a difficult request, but they feared Xu Youcai might be unwilling because the records from six years ago might be hard to find. Sure enough, Xu Youcai looked troubled, "From six years ago?" "Yes, it’s a bit troublesome, but we hope Director Xu can help us out," Beisitian explained. Xu Youcai glanced at Luo Xudong, who was standing behind her with a calm expression. Coming here now, asking about something from six years ago, it must have something to do with him. Honestly, Xu Youcai would rather not accept the cigarettes and alcohol than go through this hassle. Six years ago, he wasn’t even the village director yet, and the thought of finding those records gave him a headache. "I sent settlement payments, but my family didn’t receive them," Luo Xudong said calmly, without much emotion. But Xu Youcai could tell he was determined to find them. Settlement payments? Six years ago? Suddenly, Xu Youcai realized the significance of this money. If that was the case, he had to look for it, whether he wanted to or not! Probably, even if he didn’t agree now, this couple in front of him would have a way to make him agree. At that time, not only would he miss out on the cigarettes and alcohol, but he’d also lose any favors, so he might as well agree now, accept the gifts, and earn himself a favor! Having navigated officialdom, Xu Youcai naturally had his insights. He understood the situation and immediately nodded in agreement. This young couple from Luo Er’s family were capable people. If he helped them find the records diligently, they would surely remember this favor, and in the future, they could help him with matters! "Alright, you two sit here and wait; I’ll go and ask around." Xu Youcai poured them a glass of water and headed out. After waiting for over ten minutes, Xu Youcai returned with some not-so-good news: the records from six years ago might have been destroyed. "Don’t worry just yet. Old Li said some of those records were destroyed because they weren’t very useful, and the rest were just tossed into the storage room. I’ve already asked Old Li to take a couple of meticulous youngsters to search for them," Xu Youcai relayed. It wasn’t actually as complicated and troublesome as he made it out to be; he just exaggerated it so that they would appreciate him more. "How about this, you two go back first, and I’ll notify you as soon as there’s any news." Xu Youcai wiped the sweat from his forehead. Beisitian and Luo Xudong exchanged a look, nodded, and smiled, "Then we’ll trouble Director Xu." "Of course, of course." Xu Youcai smiled. The two left the brigade. "It’s been a while since I’ve been back. Sitiang, why not show me around?" Luo Xudong suggested, looking ahead. Feeling the scorching sun above, Beisitian really wanted to refuse, but seeing her expression, Luo Xudong took her hand and said, "Let’s walk in the shade." Beisitian was momentarily startled when her wrist was grasped by a large hand. She glanced around. Though she knew it was more open here and holding hands on the street wasn’t a big deal, being out in public still made her feel uneasy. "I can walk on my own," Beisitian said, pulling away from his hand, her head slightly lowered, and her cheeks flushed. Luo Xudong felt her slender wrist slip away and instinctively wanted to grab it again, but he restrained himself, knowing he still wanted Beisitian to agree to accompany him on a walk. Once they get their marriage certificate, he could hold her hand every day. Luo Xudong drew the first stroke on his grand blueprint. At this time, the village was relatively crowded, and Luo Xudong was still very eye-catching. As they walked down the village path, most people threw glances their way. But Luo Xudong seemed oblivious, completely ignoring all the attention. "Doctor Bei, are you out shopping?" "Doctor Bei, are you heading back?" Along the way, many people greeted Beisitian, and she responded with a smile each time. After they spoke, people would also glance at Luo Xudong. Seeing him return the gesture with a nod and a smile, they would smile in response. This side was the west part of the village. Many weren’t familiar with Luo Er’s family but knew Beisitian, so although they were curious about Luo Xudong, they didn’t engage him in conversation. Walking in the shade, Luo Xudong softly called with a smile. Beisitian turned to look at him, and Luo Xudong turned as well, the corner of his mouth curving even more upon seeing the slight reproach in those bright and beautiful eyes. And as Beisitian saw the fullness and depth in Luo Xudong’s eyes, not only smiling but also carrying a deep, unreadable meaning that she didn’t dislike, she couldn’t help but look away, unable to meet his gaze. "We’re moving into our new home the day after tomorrow, let’s go back and help," Beisitian said seriously, trying to steady her mood. Luo Xudong shrugged, quickly catching up with two steps, bending slightly, and whispered into her ear, "Doctor Bei, why is your face red?" The clean and masculine scent of Luo Xudong swept over her like a tide, and the light breath that had brushed past her ear now tingled and teased, causing a flutter in her heart and leaving her unprepared. Beisitian’s face instantly flushed scarlet, and due to her body’s subtle reaction, she slowed her steps. Luo Xudong, with his long stride, didn’t stop in time and bumped right into her. At barely a hundred pounds, Beisitian couldn’t withstand the impact from Luo Xudong, causing her to lose her balance and tilt forward. Luo Xudong’s strong arm immediately reached forward, catching Beisitian in his embrace. Beisitian felt her back leaning against a broad and sturdy chest, solid and reliable, making her heartbeat accelerate instantly. Holding the soft and petite person in his arms, Luo Xudong felt extremely comfortable, and the tips of his ears unavoidably turned red. "You... you haven’t let go yet!" Beisitian said in mock irritation, her face blushing, not daring to look back. "Fortunately, you didn’t fall." Luo Xudong released his hold, feigning calmness. He certainly didn’t want Beisitian to become wary of him. Hearing the steadiness in Luo Xudong’s voice, Beisitian had nothing to say. She walked forward with her head lowered, thankful there weren’t many people around, or how embarrassing would that be! Luo Xudong watched Beisitian hurry away, the corner of his mouth lifting. Today had been an unexpectedly lucky day!
