In the late spring of 1983, the east wind brought warmth, and all things revived. The fields of the Hongqi Production Brigade shed the desolation of winter; the wheat seedlings between the ridges were dazzlingly green, and the rapeseed flowers spread out like a golden sea, with bees and butterflies dancing and a sweet fragrance filling the air. In the planting base of the "Natural Taste" food workshop, greenhouses stood side by side, with vines climbing and laden with fruit. Glistening dewdrops rolled on the emerald leaves, reflecting a dazzling light in the morning sun, creating a vibrant and thriving scene.

Lin Wanqiu, dressed in a pale white shirt and navy blue suit trousers, stood tall and exuded a capable air. She was in the central monitoring room of the planting base, where a large screen displayed real-time crop growth in various greenhouses across a dozen different sections. She held a notebook, occasionally glancing down to jot something down, her expression focused and composed. Over the years, the food processing plant had expanded continuously, its planting base growing from a few dozen acres to over two hundred acres, encompassing more than a dozen varieties including strawberries, cherry tomatoes, and blueberries. Its products were sold both domestically and internationally, making it a leading enterprise in the region.

"Late Autumn, this is the first quarter's planting report that I just finished compiling. Take a look." Shen Tingzhou's voice came from behind. He was wearing a light gray Zhongshan suit, which made him look even more refined and composed. He held a thick report in his hand, walked to Lin Wanqiu's side, and looked at the screen. "Master Wang just said that this batch of blueberries is growing very well. The sweetness and fruit size have reached the export standards. They can be picked next week."

Lin Wanqiu took the report, quickly scanned the data, and a satisfied smile appeared on her lips: "Not bad, all indicators are higher than the same period last year. Especially greenhouses three to eight, the blueberry yield is 15% higher than expected. Who is in charge of managing these greenhouses?"

A hint of satisfaction flashed in Shen Tingzhou's eyes as he smiled and said, "It's Xiaogang. Ever since he passed the three-month assessment, I've let him take charge of these six blueberry greenhouses independently. This kid has really put in the effort. He not only mastered the techniques taught by Master Wang, but also figured out his own water and fertilizer management method, and the results are really good."

Lin Wanqiu's heart stirred, and an approving expression appeared on her face. She recalled Shen Xiao's rebellious and impetuous nature when he first arrived three months ago, and then looked at the impressive data on the report now. She couldn't help but sigh, "Indeed, jade cannot be made into a gem without being carved. As long as young people are willing to work hard and be down-to-earth, they can always achieve results."

"Let's go check out the planting base." Lin Wanqiu closed the report, her tone filled with anticipation. "It'll be a good opportunity to see Xiaogang's management achievements."

The two walked side by side out of the monitoring room and along the field ridge towards the blueberry greenhouse. Wildflowers bloomed in profusion on both sides of the ridge, their vibrant colors and sweet fragrance filling the air. Butterflies fluttered among the blossoms, adding a touch of poetry to this springtime countryside. In the distance, workers were busy in the fields, some thinning strawberry blossoms, others building trellises for cherry tomatoes. Their cheerful laughter drifted on the spring breeze, radiating a vibrant energy.

Upon arriving at the blueberry greenhouse, Lin Wanqiu and Shen Tingzhou were immediately greeted by a sweet, fruity aroma as they pushed open the door. Inside, rows of blueberry bushes stood neatly arranged, their lush green branches laden with clusters of plump blueberries. The bluish-purple berries, like precious jewels, weighed heavily on the branches. Shen Xiaogang, dressed in blue overalls and a straw hat, was carefully picking ripe blueberries with a small basket, his movements practiced and precise. His skin was tanned dark, and his forehead was covered in fine beads of sweat, yet his eyes remained focused, and a reassuring smile graced his face.

"Xiao Gang," Shen Tingzhou called out.

Shen Xiaogang turned around and saw Lin Wanqiu and Shen Tingzhou. A hint of surprise flashed in his eyes. He quickly put down the basket in his hand and walked over, his tone respectful: "Auntie, Uncle, what brings you here?"

Lin Wanqiu looked at Shen Xiaogang with a sense of satisfaction. The young man before her was no longer the idle, rebellious, and impetuous person he once was. His eyes had become firm and steady, his hands were covered with thick calluses, his body smelled of earth, and he exuded a down-to-earth and hardworking tenacity.

"Come and see your results," Lin Wanqiu said with a smile, her gaze falling on the blueberry bushes laden with fruit. "Master Wang said that the blueberries in the greenhouses you manage are growing exceptionally well, with both yield and quality far exceeding expectations. Excellent, you've done a great job."

Hearing Lin Wanqiu's praise, Shen Xiaogang smiled shyly, scratched his head, and said with a hint of embarrassment, "Auntie, you flatter me. I just followed Master Wang and learned well, and then figured it out on my own. I didn't expect it to be so effective."

Technician Wang also came out from deep inside the greenhouse, a pleased smile on his face: "General Manager Lin, General Manager Shen, Xiaogang has really grown up. Not only does he manage these six blueberry greenhouses very well, but he also often takes the initiative to help other workers solve technical problems. Last time, the blueberries in greenhouse number four had yellowing leaves. Before I even had a chance to check, he had already found the cause. It was due to an imbalance in the soil pH. He even mixed the nutrient solution himself and quickly solved the problem."

Lin Wanqiu's admiration grew stronger. She hadn't expected that Shen Xiaogang could not only manage the greenhouse he was in charge of well, but also take the initiative to study technology and solve practical problems. His sense of responsibility and learning ability were truly commendable.

"Good, you have ideas and a sense of responsibility." Lin Wanqiu said solemnly, "Xiaogang, you are now able to independently manage six greenhouses, which is an outstanding performance. Your uncle and I have discussed it and are thinking of appointing you as the deputy director of the planting base to assist Master Wang in managing the technical work of the entire planting base. Are you willing?"

Upon hearing this, Shen Xiaogang's eyes flashed with shock, which quickly turned into intense joy and excitement. He never dreamed that he could be promoted from a grassroots worker to the deputy manager of the planting base in just six months. He took a deep breath, trying to calm his excitement, and said firmly, "Thank you, Auntie, thank you, Uncle! I'm willing! I will definitely work hard and live up to your trust!"

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