Rebirth in the 50s: The Couple with the Hidden Space-Chapter 352 - 268: The Eve of Separation (Part 2)

Zhang Guoqing saw his elder brothers furrowing their brows tightly, and curiously asked, "Why don’t Aunt and Uncle move out on their own? They would be less stressed not living with their sons."

Uncle Zhang sighed, "Your Aunt says moving out on her own would impact her grandson’s marriage prospects."

Zhang Guoqing understood his intention. It’s just using a return to the parental home as an excuse to move in and avoid those difficult relatives. But things aren’t that simple. Not to mention whether his Aunt would agree, but once they move in, who’s going to care for them when they’re old? Who will take care of them? It’s not something as simple as just saying a few words.

Aside from him, no family is wealthy. Haha, it’s likely that when his Uncle asked him, he intended for him to take on the responsibility of caring for the elderly couple. He wouldn’t mind giving money, but who would want to take on that thankless task? Especially since his Aunt is a naive person, combined with that leeching family, they wouldn’t last long before the house is emptied.

Zhang Guoqing remained silent, quietly sitting to the side and listening to them chat about family matters.

As the off-work broadcast sounded, Zhang Guoqing and his father said their goodbyes and left.

As soon as Mr. Zhang stepped out of Uncle Zhang’s yard, his face turned stern. Zhang Guoqing felt a bit angry inside too, and upon seeing his father’s expression, he knew he wasn’t mistaken. He sighed inwardly, following Mr. Zhang back to their room.

"Luckily you figured it out. Don’t let your mother know about your Uncle’s schemes," Mr. Zhang said dispiritedly, leaning against the kang.

Zhang Guoqing nodded, teasing him, "Didn’t you see me looking at you before I answered? I take after you; I’m no fool. It’s not that your youngest son is heartless. Giving money and provisions is fine, but moving them in is not."

Mr. Zhang spoke quietly, "Your Uncle is indeed clever. He speaks and acts ambiguously. When I mentioned going to see your Aunt, even your youngest uncle had no objections, but he said to wait until he hears back with good news. Ah... He’s the eldest, let’s listen to him then. Shouldn’t have discussed it with him, should have gone directly to see your Aunt. Now we’re on hold."

"Dad, have you forgotten there’s an election soon? We should go after it’s settled," Zhang Guoqing knew the election tied up the timing.

Mr. Zhang repeatedly slapped his forehead; he hadn’t connected it. "Your Uncle is inquiring about your second brother’s matter. He subtly suggests you help your cousin find a job. Don’t visit either family these days. Once your eldest brother’s situation is settled, we’ll head to the county for a while."

Mr. Zhang saw Zhang Guoqing chuckling quietly and hit him hard, "Do you think your father doesn’t want to help out the nephews? The issue is, is finding a job that easy? With so many nephews, I can’t do it for everyone, so it’s better to pretend I didn’t understand."

Zhang Guoqing didn’t want to hear about job topics; he was now focused on resources.

After dinner, the three brothers followed Mr. Zhang into the East Wing bedroom.

Zhang Guoqing detailed several units he’d connected with currently. Now, there’s a textile factory assistant worker position, postal sorting role, sales staff at the grain bureau, warehouse manager at the supply and marketing office, employee at the meat joint factory among five units excluding the textile factory and postal job as formal roles; the other three are temporary. He used all his means to connect these jobs, just depends on how his eldest brother chooses. The final choice will depend on Zhang Guofu’s preferences.

Mr. Zhang listened enthusiastically. These are all great units, even city folks can’t get in easily. He specifically went to the county to inquire with in-laws.

Zhang Guofu pondered for a moment, then raised his head and said, "My child’s uncle says it doesn’t matter which unit, just get in quickly. If it weren’t for Xiao Wu, none of us could enter the city. I know Xiao Wu must have put in a lot of effort. Brother won’t say polite words. Pick the one where you owe the least favors and won’t have to go all out in the future, and let brother go to that unit. All five are good units, any is a stretch for me. I’ll leave it to you."

Zhang Guoqing looked at his sincere eldest brother; the less he wanted to impose, the more Zhang Guoqing wanted to find him a good unit. He planned to first find a good unit for him to enter, then let his eldest brother attend night school, and later make connections to transfer to another department. Currently, the most reliable connection is the textile factory; going in won’t face exclusion. That day Uncle Chen mentioned there are many roles in the assistant section, still a way to find a lighter role. The most suitable is the grain bureau sales position where neighbor Old Chen is, temporary roles also have negotiation room. The main thing is not worrying about food in the future, fixed and relaxed work hours.

Zhang Guoqing pondered and said, "I’m most satisfied with the grain bureau sales position; converting temporary workers to formal isn’t too challenging. What reassures me most is the textile factory, but regular shifts are too exhausting. Second brother, help big brother consider which is suitable? These jobs need quick decision-making."

Zhang Guoqiang had no particular opinions on the two jobs; he’s been working for some time and knows the importance of backing. Moreover, his eldest brother’s good nature and stable personality aren’t lacking in cleverness; he’ll thrive anywhere.

"I think any would do. There’s Aunt Zuo in the textile factory, Old Chen at the grain bureau. Brother can pick either."

"No need to choose, the grain bureau. Sounds reassuring not worrying about food. Oldest, this time listen to Dad. If Xiao Wu is pleased, it must be the best option." Mr. Zhang decisively concluded, not seeing his eldest son hesitating.

Zhang Guoqing’s two brothers stared at Zhang Guofu, seeing his face break into a smile. They exchanged glances and smiled, finally completing an important task.

Seeing no more issues, Zhang Guoqing stood up, "Alright. In the next two days, I’ll talk to Old Chen about converting to formal employment. Brother, get ready to start next week; I’ll accompany you. I need to leave now."

Mr. Zhang hurriedly called to stop him, "Why hurry? Sit back down. Dad has more to say."

Zhang Guoqing sat back down, puzzled, looking at him, waiting for him to speak.

Mr. Zhang glared at him, slowly saying, "Your mother and I have been discussing for a while. Our family will first separate; money will be divided to you earlier. With jobs, having money at hand allows easier arrangements. There’s also another matter that Dad privately needs to agree with you three brothers on. To avoid any grievances between your siblings."

The three Zhang brothers told him to speak freely. What else could there be, likely worrying about unequal separation and family discord.

Zhang Guofu had a good nature, believing that whether more or less, it’s still given to his siblings, not outsiders.

Zhang Guoqiang knew he didn’t contribute much to the family. The family’s finances rely on the eldest and Xiao Wu. Having any money to divide is good.

Mr. Zhang looked at his sons, each one smiling. He felt relieved, "You three brothers earn money and hand it to the family, and Dad’s been keeping accounts. These days, flipping through the books, Xiao Wu has handed in the most money. But Xiao Wu, Dad can only let you and Jiao Jiao suffer. You don’t need to say anything. Dad knows you don’t mind."

Mr. Zhang stopped Zhang Guoqing from speaking. Then continued, "Tomorrow night, I’ll invite several elders from our clan over. You should head home and let your wives know."

Seeing everything discussed, Mr. Zhang sent them back home to rest.