When the light summer rain cleansed the sycamore trees along the roadside, Da Gang suddenly realized that tomorrow would be his third wedding anniversary with Xiao Xiao. He thought to himself that he must surprise her.
From their dating days to their marriage, Da Gang and Xiao Xiao had never had a quarrel or even raised their voices at each other. They were a loving couple, with only one small regret: Xiao Xiao had been reluctant to have children because of her career. She planned to consider having a child only after they bought a house and their conditions improved.
That morning, as soon as Da Gang entered the office building, he heard that the company was going to lay off some employees. The list was almost finalized, just waiting to be officially announced. To Da Gang’s surprise, he was on the list. This was a disaster. He and his wife had planned to take out a loan to buy a two-bedroom apartment, but if he lost his job, it would be impossible to repay the loan. All their beautiful plans would be shattered.
In reality, Da Gang was a very diligent worker. He had been with the company for over four years. During this time, he had always worked hard, never being late or leaving early except for a three-day hospital stay due to illness. He had never made any mistakes that caused economic losses to the company and had even been named an outstanding employee twice. Why, then, was he among the first to be laid off? Da Gang thought it over thoroughly but couldn’t understand it. Finally, he comforted himself: if he was indeed laid off, it must be due to the leadership’s difficult situation. Well, if he had to go, he had to go. There would always be a way out.
After work, Da Gang told Xiao Xiao honestly about his impending layoff and that the list would be announced the next day. Xiao Xiao was initially stunned, followed by a long silence. The harsh reality felt like walking a tightrope, always keeping them on edge, one misstep away from falling.
The night was unusually quiet. Da Gang and Xiao Xiao didn’t speak a word, hoping for a miracle.
The next day, Da Gang still arrived at work early. He believed that until the company officially announced the layoff list, he was still an employee and should fulfill his duties and work hard, not slacking off because of rumors about his layoff.
The section chief saw Da Gang diligently cleaning the office and sighed, “I’m really sorry. I shouldn’t have sent you out today. I know the rumors about the layoffs have everyone on edge, and you probably already know. I’m truly sorry. The Green Community’s elevator has been out of order for three days because the residents haven’t paid their property fees. They even called the TV station to complain yesterday, and my phone has been ringing off the hook. Could you help me out one last time and handle this?”
Da Gang smiled, “Chief, there’s nothing to apologize for. As long as the company hasn’t announced my departure, I should work diligently. Don’t worry, this isn’t a big issue. I’ll handle it quickly and ensure you’re not troubled.”
At the Green Community, Da Gang first apologized to the residents on behalf of the company and promised to fix the elevator that day, deferring other matters. He then called in a repairman to diagnose the elevator. The repairman fixed it in just over an hour. The residents surrounded Da Gang, saying, “If only you were in charge of our property management! With your dedication, we would never delay paying our fees.”
Da Gang replied, “Our goals are the same. If residents don’t owe fees, our work is easier. Conversely, if we do our job well, you won’t delay payments.”
To thank the repairman for his help, Da Gang treated him to a meal. When he returned to the company, it was already afternoon. Da Gang, proud and self-reliant, silently packed his belongings, ready to leave as soon as the list was announced.
While he was packing, the section chief burst in excitedly, “Da Gang, the company finally accepted my suggestion and decided to keep you!”
Da Gang couldn’t believe his ears. This sudden good news made him feel like the world had brightened, and his dejected mood vanished.
The good news made Da Gang so happy that he forgot about their wedding anniversary. He whistled his way home, empty-handed.
When he opened the door, he was stunned. The dining table was laden with dishes and beer, and Xiao Xiao was busy in the kitchen. Da Gang guessed that the section chief must have called Xiao Xiao to share the good news in advance since they were high school classmates.
Da Gang suddenly remembered their anniversary but had come home empty-handed. He decided to take Xiao Xiao to a karaoke bar after dinner. He hurried to the bedroom to change and then went to the kitchen to help.
When he returned to the dining room, there was a bouquet of roses on the table, filling the room with a faint fragrance. A delicate card read, “Honey, congratulations! I knew you were the best!”
Soon, a table full of delicious food was ready. At dinner, they toasted each other, as if they were back in their passionate courtship days.
After dinner, Da Gang suggested taking Xiao Xiao to a karaoke bar. Xiao Xiao, who loved romantic gestures, agreed immediately. She wanted to sing the most beautiful songs for Da Gang.
As Xiao Xiao changed her clothes, a card accidentally fell from her pocket. Da Gang picked it up and saw it was from the flowers, reading, “Honey, being laid off is nothing. I believe you are the best, and we will get better slowly!”
Da Gang could no longer contain his emotions and hugged Xiao Xiao tightly.
In reality, Xiao Xiao had no idea about the changes at Da Gang’s company. She had prepared two cards with different messages, deciding which one to use based on Da Gang’s attitude and expression. This small card was enough to make Da Gang happy for a lifetime.
Thank you for reading! ” Sitestorys “
