It wasn't that Old Zhao cared about the Huang family's reputation or future, but if his team members ended up in jail, it would reflect poorly on his performance report. That, in turn, could lower his chances for promotion.
Weighing the pros and cons, he finally turned to the Huang family and said, "Comrades, I have tried my best to help you, but this matter is clearly your fault. You must pay 500 yuan to Comrade Liu Piao as compensation and issue a public apology."
Hearing his verdict, the Huang family knew their team leader had given up on protecting them. Though reluctant, they didn't dare disobey and nodded stiffly.
Seeing their agreement, Old Zhao secretly sighed in relief and added, "Send the money to me later, and I will personally deliver it to Comrade Liu Piao."
With no more room to resist, Mother Huang's daughter forced herself to say through gritted teeth, "Team leader, we understand."