News of the County Standing Committee meeting quickly spread throughout the county government compound. Deputy County Executive Xu Guoqing (in charge of Staff/Internal Affairs) entered the compound early that morning. People who usually rushed about stopped and respectfully greeted him, "Executive Xu." Xu Guoqing walked with his head held high, his face dignified, occasionally humming in response to those who greeted him. Reaching the main entrance of the county building, Ethan Cole happened to turn onto the side road. Xu Guoqing immediately changed from his upright posture to a bow, his face instantly plastered with a smile.
"Good morning, Executive Cole."
"Oh, Old Xu, good morning." Ethan Cole shook hands with Xu Guoqing and greeted him.
The two entered the county building together an
