Chapter 1352 - 1353: Arranged Marriage in This Day and Age?

The family sat down in order of seniority, and Ning Gang served Old Master Ning his tea before taking his seat.

"The matter with the Loo Family is settled, and Jiang Conghe’s issue has also concluded. It means that the eldest has one less competitor, but he cannot let his guard down." Old Master Ning said slowly, "I heard that the person newly appointed to Jiang Conghe’s position is from Guangcheng?"

"Yes, Cheng Junquan. His father has an old friendship with Elder Chief Song in the Capital." Ning Gang replied.

Old Master Ning remarked, "The intentions at the top are unpredictable now. Whether it’s Jiang Conghe or this Cheng Junquan, they both come from poor families. I’ve noticed in recent years, the higher-ups seem more inclined to promote those of lower origins. Conversely, the Old Red Army’s people..."

His expression was somewhat grim. As society continues to develop, the Old Red Army faction is not as influential as it once was. He recently saw news about a Red Army veteran living on government welfare, barely surviving.

Ning Gang remained silent, but seeing the displeasure on his father’s face, he said, "Dad, don’t worry. I’ve been in this position for a few years now, and Director Wang is well aware of the situation."

"Caution is paramount." Old Master Ning advised, "Some matters cannot be settled with just a word from Director Wang. The heart of man is unfathomable."

Ning Gang nodded and said, "I see this Cheng Junquan as a cautious person too. For now, he seems to be positioning himself correctly."

Old Master Ning was about to speak when he noticed Ning Ge fiddling with his fingers and turned the topic towards him: "Fourth, what do you think?"

"Me?" Ning Ge pointed at himself and said, "Director Wang should retire next year, right? With Commander Cheng just arriving, it won’t be his turn anyway. But then, you never know with others!"

Ning Gang furrowed his brows.

"The commander isn’t just our elder brother. It’s more about opportunity; other military districts and departments have people at the same level, so it’s uncertain!" Ning Ge said, "But, hasn’t the nomination list come out yet?"

Ning Gang’s tone relaxed slightly as he said, "Yes, my name is on it!"

Old Master Ning’s heart eased a little, saying, "Until it’s finalized, be more cautious. As the fourth said, you’re not the only one on the nomination."

"Understood."

"Fourth, what are your plans now?" Old Master Ning was primarily inquiring about his youngest son’s future.

"Yeah! Before, you said you’d wait for Jiang Conghe to step down. Now that he’s out, what’s your plan? Joining National Security? Or some ministry?" Ning Gang asked.

Ning Ge shrugged with a smile and said, "I don’t have any plans for now. I’ll just stay here. I think it’s quite good at the moment."

Ning Gang and the others furrowed their brows.

"A real man should serve the country..."

"Big Brother, what I’m doing now is also for the country and the people. You know my character. I prefer it this way rather than being in the frontline. I’m more comfortable like this. We’ll talk about the future later!" Ning Ge cut him off.

Ning Gang’s face turned sour.

"Alright, he’s a grown man now. He should have some sense of measure. Don’t pressure him," Old Master Ning chimed in to support him.

Ning Gang had to suppress his urge to lecture him but said, "Forget about your career path for now. Isn’t it time to settle your marriage affairs?"

Ning Ge’s head buzzed.

"Your third sister told me that she has a good friend who returned home a couple of years ago and is still single. Your third sister suggests having dinner together tomorrow!" Ning Gang glared at him, "I’ve already agreed for you, so you and your third sister will go tomorrow."

Ning Ge protested, "Big Brother, you can’t force me like this!"

Ning Gang gave him a stern look.

Ning Ge gave in: "Fine, fine, I’ll go, okay? What era is this, still having arranged marriages... Oh, look at me, I’ve got a dinner appointment with Zhou Jun. I’m off!"