The method used by An Xuyuan when dividing the team was simple and direct. He didn't care about the personal relationship between the villagers.
The same family would be appointed at the same location, even after they separated the household registration. Then, they would be grouped together with their relatives, whether by marriage or by blood. So, the Song family ended up being appointed to the next area near the Lu family.
When the villagers noticed his method, those with good relationships rejoiced, while those with bad relationships spat at each other.
Two hours later, the meeting finally concluded, and everyone returned to their homes while carrying their chairs and benches. Most of them were still discussing the Zhang family's matter.
As they walked out of the village hall, An Xuyuan went to find Zhang Ermu. Seeing him walking with his sister, he called out, "Brother Zhang."
Hearing his words, Zhang Ermu and Zhang Yulan stopped in their tracks and turned around.
"Vice team leader, do you need anything?" Zhang Ermu asked.
An Xuyuan walked to them and said, "Brother Zhang, I'm sorry for not discussing the reward matter with you beforehand and announcing it in the meeting just now."
Zhang Ermu didn't think there was anything wrong with his decision, so he nodded and replied with a smile, "Vice team leader, I believe you must have your reason to do that. So, I didn't blame you."
"It's good that you didn't blame me," An Xuyuan replied with relief.
After saying those few words, the two of them went silent.
Summer nights were hot and humid, perfect for mosquitoes to fly rampant. Standing beside them, Zhang Yulan was bitten by the mosquitoes even though she wore long-sleeved clothes and pants.
She looked at her brother and asked impatiently, "Brother, can we go back now? I will become the mosquitoes' food if we stand here any longer."
Hearing her words, An Xuyuan looked at her and noticed several small red bumps on her forehead and cheeks. He took out an ointment from his pocket and handed it to her while saying, "Yulan, this ointment is good for mosquito bites. You can try to use it."
The moment she heard this, Zhang Yulan took the ointment from his palm and said, "Thank you, Brother An!"
She then put the ointment on her face and felt the itchiness lessen. After using some of the ointment, she returned it to him and said, "Brother An, where did you get this ointment? It's really effective. It's not so itchy now after using some of it."
An Xuyuan smiled when he saw her bright smile and replied, "Since it's effective, just keep it. I still have some at home."
Zhang Yulan didn't treat him politely at all and kept the ointment in her pocket while saying, "Okay!"
Standing beside his sister, Zhang Ermu observed their interaction, and he was sure that An Xuyuan was only using him as an excuse to talk to his sister.
"Yulan, it's not early anymore. You should go back with your brother and rest early," An Xuyuan said.
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