Monday.
Morning.
County Party Committee Compound.
After arriving at work, Dong Xuebin went to his office. He drew the curtains and opened the window to let in the sunlight, then rummaged through a drawer for a box of good tea leaves. He boiled water in the Electric Kettle he had just bought, unpacked the tea set piece by piece, and began brewing and tasting tea by himself.
The Longjing tea had a rich flavor. As soon as hot water was poured over the leaves, a faint fragrance burst forth and drifted lazily throughout the room.
One cup... two cups... three cups... Dong Xuebin enjoyed himself immensely. Good things had been coming one after another lately, and he was in a relaxed mood.
Looking at the familiar office and the familiar view outside the window, Dong Xuebin knew he would not be staying in Zhenshui County much longer. Now that the time had come, he found himself somewhat reluctant to leave.
Knock, knock. Someone knocked on the door.
Dong Xuebin withdrew his gaze. "Come in."
Yao Cui pushed open the door and entered. "Xuebin."
"Cui'er." Dong Xuebin beckoned. "Come on, I just brewed this tea. It's perfect to drink now."
Yao Cui smiled, walked over with a document in hand, and sat down. She accepted the tea cup Dong Xuebin handed her, sniffed it, and took a sip. "Good tea. It smells wonderful."
Dong Xuebin said, "It's not at its best anymore. It's been sitting around for over two months."
Yao Cui took another sip. "Even so, it's still good. Sigh, you really know how to enjoy yourself."
Dong Xuebin laughed. "Haha, I'm really just drinking it for the fun of it. I don't know anything about tea. Someone gave it to me, and not drinking it would be a waste.