The next day.
Morning, Nanshan District.
A fine drizzle came and went, and sunlight broke through the dark clouds in a brilliant burst.
Setting out from the Yantai County Family Compound, Dong Xuebin drove the Cayenne all the way back to the Guangming Street Office. It was only eight o'clock, and most people had not yet arrived for work. The courtyard was completely empty. Although he had only been gone for a few days, Dong Xuebin felt as if he had been away for a long time. Looking here and there, he strolled into the annex building beneath an umbrella and returned to his office.
A little after eight.
The rain stopped, and the blazing sun emerged in high spirits.
Dong Xuebin lounged on the reception sofa, picked up the freshly boiled electric kettle, brushed off the tea tray, added some Longjing tea, and began leisurely drinking by himself. One sip filled his mouth with fragrance, easing his mood as well.
Knock, knock. Someone knocked on the door.
Dong Xuebin set down his teacup. "Come in."
The door opened, and Zhou Yanru and Wang Yuling walked in. "Director."
"Director, you're back?" They had spotted Dong Xuebin's car downstairs and only then learned that he had returned.
Dong Xuebin gave a hum and said helplessly, "Something delayed me yesterday, so I couldn't make it back. Sit down. Come on, try the Longjing I brought back. It's this year's new tea."
"Thank you, Director. I was just thirsty." Wang Yuling did not stand on ceremony and sat down with a grin.
Seeing Dong Xuebin about to pour the tea, Zhou Yanru hurried forward and took over. "Director, Director, don't trouble yourself. I'll do it. Whew, this tea smells wonderful. You can tell it's good tea just from the scent."
Dong Xuebin chuckled.