Back To The 80s: President's Doted Wife Chapter 1577 - 1578: Drawing for a Good Apartment
Previously on Back To The 80s: President's Doted Wife...
As September drew to a close, the army began distributing housing benefits, with those holding ranks above deputy battalion commander becoming eligible for new residences. The size of these homes was determined by rank, while individuals of the same standing would participate in a lottery for specific floor plans and layouts.
This marked Cheng Su's inaugural experience with such an event. The expansive conference hall was adorned with celebratory banners, and all eligible individuals had congregated, engaging in hushed conversations.
At her mother's urging, Cheng Su had brought along Qi Xiaoqi, as the latter's 'pure hands' were believed to be capable of drawing a favorable floor plan.
The newly constructed building comprised seven floors, with four apartments situated on each level. The most spacious units surpassed 100 square meters, while even the smallest were over eighty. Given Qi Taiguo's rank, their family was slated to receive one of the smaller units.
While the size was a minor concern, the floor level was of paramount importance. Cheng Su harbored a strong desire for the fourth or fifth floor – a height neither too high nor too low, offering both pleasant views and ample sunlight. She believed lower floors would suffer from insufficient light.
Everyone present desired a well-lit dwelling, as sunlight was universally cherished. It wasn't merely for drying clothes; light-filled interiors were thought to foster positivity and contribute to overall well-being.
Consequently, a palpable sense of competition filled the air as individuals vied for the chance to select a superior floor.
Cheng Su was no exception to this fervent desire.
"Sister-in-law Qi, you've brought your son? Are you planning to utilize his pure hands?" a voice inquired with a smile.
Cheng Su responded, "Yes, I'm hoping to borrow some of my son's good fortune."
"Isn't this child less than three months old? Can he even draw?"
"It's purely for good luck, nothing more," Cheng Su replied with a grin.
"Honestly, it's all the same; it's a new house. Even if you don't get a good floor plan, with Sister-in-law Qi's current wealth, you could surely afford to buy a spacious new house elsewhere, couldn't you?" someone remarked with a hint of envy.
Cheng Su offered a polite smile and remained silent.
Sister-in-law Gao, who maintained a close relationship with Cheng Su, interjected, "I disagree with that sentiment. The ability to purchase a property stems from personal effort, but this housing allocation is a reward for a man's hard work. How can they be equated? This is a benefit provided by the nation; our men serve on missions and battlefields, risking their lives, isn't it for the betterment of their families' lives?"
"Sister-in-law Gao speaks the truth. Besides, who wouldn't appreciate something received for free? I certainly wouldn't; if I could, I'd happily accept several more apartments!" Cheng Su declared with a laugh.
"Really? I observe that you often seem to treat money lightly; isn't your home replete with fine possessions?" the same person retorted with a sour tone.
"Except for a house, perhaps. Moreover, I am indeed rather unrefined; I wholeheartedly appreciate these common material comforts, and a new house is certainly no exception." Cheng Su engaged in self-deprecating humor with unblushing frankness.
Left momentarily speechless by her audacious candor, the individual turned away somewhat awkwardly.
"Pay her no mind; she's merely exhibiting sour grapes," Sister-in-law Gao whispered into Cheng Su's ear.
Cheng Su offered a slight nod in agreement.
Before long, the drawing process commenced, and all attendees at the venue began to prepare themselves.
Within a box lay numerous balls, each imprinted with a unit number. The draws were meticulously organized according to rank.
"My dearest, whether we secure a desirable residence hinges on your luck today!" Cheng Su affectionately addressed Qi Xiaoqi, gently touching his small hand.
Qi Xiaoqi mused internally that his mother was indeed quite traditional in her beliefs.
Cheng Su offered a silent prayer. As their family's turn approached, an intense wave of nervousness washed over her. She stepped forward alongside Qi Taiguo.
"You draw it!" Qi Taiguo exclaimed, a teasing smile gracing his lips as he gazed into her hopeful eyes.
After bestowing a kiss upon her son, Cheng Su reached into the box, her fingers navigating through the small numbered balls until she retrieved one. She then revealed its inscription.
402.
It was a unit known for its excellent cross-ventilation. Cheng Su was overcome with joy, and even Qi Taiguo's face lit up with delight. A favorable floor and excellent orientation – truly a stroke of luck.