The Sweetness of the Seventies-Chapter 1182 - 1151: Huo Family’s Layout

The Huo Family, in contrast, was somewhat quiet.

Huo Yingjun and Zhao Huanhuan were in Country S with their kids, and Huo Yingjie had gone on a business trip. With the absence of the two youths, the house had lost a lot of its liveliness.

Fortunately, there were many children in the family, which buffered the quietness.

This year, to make the atmosphere more festive, Huo Zhekun and Jiang Lifang brought their daughters-in-law and grandchildren to the Huo Family Old Mansion early. Everyone got involved in preparing for the New Year. Being busy with hands-on participation made them forget the quietness.

Old Master Huo didn’t feel it too much with his two sons there to chat with him.

On New Year’s Eve, everyone watched the Spring Festival Gala and had dumplings together.

The children couldn’t stay awake and went to bed early.

Old Madam Huo was downstairs, talking with the two daughters-in-law and He Tiantian.

Old Master Huo was in the study, talking with his two sons.

"The house feels quieter this year," Old Master Huo lamented. "Yingjie, Yingjun, and Huanhuan are all away, and I miss them."

"It is quieter," Huo Zheqian agreed. "But next year Yingjun will come back for a visit in March; then we can see him." freёnovelkiss.com

"That’s all we can hope for," Old Master Huo said before turning to Huo Zhekun. "Yingjie went to the base, and who knows when he’ll be able to complete his mission and come back early."

Huo Zhekun gave a wry smile and said, "Lifang and Tiantian are at home every day, eagerly waiting, hoping Yingjie will come back soon. However, I don’t think it’s likely that Yingjie will come back any time soon. If they’ve taken him from such an important research institute, it must be for something even more important and challenging."

"Yes!" Old Master Huo said. "Yingjie and Yingjun are pillars of the state!"

"It’s worrisome when children aren’t successful, but when they are, we worry too," Huo Zheqian stated. "Now Yingjun and Yingjie have grown up, our Huo family should be fine for three generations. The younger ones are also bright and clever. With proper guidance, they too could become pillars of the Huo family one day."

Upon hearing this, Zhekun quickly said, "Boss, you’ve been working in Yanjing for so many years, how can you just talk about retiring? If it really doesn’t work out, serve for another term."

He was used to being abroad, but his elder brother had always been in Yanjing. He worried his brother wouldn’t adapt to an external environment.

Moreover, letting his elder brother make way for him didn’t sit well with Huo Zhekun.

"Younger brother, you should think of it this way, whether the Huo family can become a top-tier family in Yanjing depends on whether you can assume higher positions," Huo Zheqian stated. "I’ve operated in Yanjing for many years, but I know my abilities, and I’m absolutely not fit for that higher position. Those who can make it there not only need a family background but also capability," Zheqian continued. "That’s why I’ve been thinking of making way for you. It’s not just for you but also for our Huo family."

Seeing his two sons caring for each other so much brought cheer to Old Master Huo.

Seeing his father not commenting, Zheqian looked towards him and asked, "Father, what’s your opinion?"

Old Master Huo pondered a bit, looking relaxed, and chuckled, "It’s quite simple! The Boss could be assigned to work in a certain province. Although your elder brother only spent some time in the lower level when he was young, he should be able to manage that position now. And with you, his brother, supporting him in Capital City, he can be a bit more relaxed. You’re right, younger brother—the position you’re aiming for upon your return is that one."

Huo Zhekun was startled, not expecting his father and elder brother to think this way.

"Father, Boss, do you really think I can rise to that position?" Zhekun asked cautiously. Over the years, his work in Nan City had been witnessed by all, his theoretical support for the reforms had been published in many internal references, but he didn’t think he had such qualifications.

"You can do it, younger brother," Zheqian said. "Your articles and views are very innovative, yet they make sense."

Huo Zhekun gave a sheepish smile and said, "That just shows I’m ahead of others in thinking, or maybe I’m bolder than others, daring to say what they don’t dare to."

"Ha, this isn’t just about being bold," Zheqian replied. "Some people simply don’t have such foresight. But you can—you see what others don’t, think what others can’t, and also think ahead of others; that is what makes a top talent! I can’t do it though; I’ve relied on family resources and my own efforts to get to where I am now, and another step up is very difficult. So it’s not about me letting you; it’s that the Huo family needs you to go up, and you also have the capital to do so."

Old Master Huo nodded and said, "Yes, the Boss is right. Zhekun, what your elder brother said is also my sentiment. Last time I went to see the master, the Grand Master also hinted at this subtly, suggesting that we make early plans. Your elder brother and I have discussed it at length and believe it’s feasible, so we wanted to talk to you about it during the New Year. Speak up about any thoughts or concerns you have; it’s just the three of us here, and it won’t get out."

Reassured by his father’s words, Zhekun replied, "If Father and Boss both believe I am capable, then I will do my utmost to seek advancement. Besides, our journey in officialdom is to achieve more, isn’t it?"

"That’s right," Old Master Huo stated. "It’s most important for you brothers to support each other. And Boss, be mindful of who you bring along; figure it out in your heart, and I will also provide a few connections from my side."

Huo Zhekun looked at his elder brother and said, "Boss, rest assured, I also have a capable talent here that you can use in the local area."

"Ha, good, we’ll share what we have," Zheqian laughed. "I’ll do a good job outside, and maybe when I come back, I might even retire at a higher level."

"That’s for sure," Old Master Huo declared. "When you retire, Yingjun would have to step up and won’t be blocked by you. As for Zhekun here, he’s young and can work several more years. As for Yingjie, we don’t even need to worry about him; he’s beyond anyone’s reach."