[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":-1},["ShallowReactive",2],{"origin-1987-my-era":3,"chapter-1987-my-era-1987-my-era-chapter-533":6},{"origin":4,"title":5},"chinese","1987: My Era",{"chapter":7,"nextChapterSlug":19,"prevChapterSlug":20,"totalChapters":21,"novelImage":22},{"id":8,"novel_id":9,"title":10,"slug":11,"index":12,"content":13,"wordcount":14,"created_at":15,"updated_at":15,"volume":16,"translator":17,"content_hash":18},2259693,4409,"Chapter 533: A Family","1987-my-era-chapter-533",533,"\u003Cp>Upon learning her younger brother was returning, Li Lan had been preparing since early morning, and now everything was ready—just needed to reheat and add seasonings to finish the dishes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[1] Learning her younger brother was coming home, Li Lan had been preparing since early morning; now everything was ready, just needing a quick reheat and seasoning to finish the dish.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing his second sister and mother enter the kitchen, Li Heng and Huang Zhaoyi exchanged a silent glance, then took Zi Jin to the bedroom; after embracing and sharing their longing, they returned to the courtyard.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[2] Seeing his second sister and mother enter the kitchen, Li Heng and Huang Zhaoyi exchanged a silent glance, then took Zijin to the bedroom; they embraced for a while, exchanged words of longing, before returning to the courtyard.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Jianguo and Chen Gaoyuan were playing chess; he pulled Zi Jin aside to watch, occasionally chiming in, but mostly chatting with Zi Jin and Da Qingyi.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[3] Li Jianguo and Chen Gaoyuan began playing chess. He pulled Zijin aside to watch, occasionally muttering a few comments, but mostly chatting with Zijin and Da Qingyi.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng casually asked, “When did Huang sister arrive?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[4] Li Heng feigned casualness and asked, “When did Sister Huang arrive?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Huang Zhaoyi replied, “This morning; she’s performing on stage this afternoon.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[5] Huang Zhaoyi replied, “This morning. I’m performing this afternoon.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In front of Chen Zi Jin, she didn’t explain why she had come to the Li household.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[6] In front of Chen Zijin, she didn’t explain why she’d come to the Li household.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng didn’t ask either.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[7] Li Heng didn’t ask.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After all, she was his woman, and right now he trusted Da Qingyi fairly well.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[8] After all, she was his woman, and he currently trusted Da Qingyi more than anyone.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At that moment, Chen Zi Jin said, “Huang sister runs a seasoning company in Hunan; today she brought over some chili sauce and spices.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[9] At that moment, Chen Zijin said, “Sister Huang runs a seasoning company in Xiangnan; today she brought over some chili sauce and spices.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Huang Zhaoyi smiled, “I promised Auntie and Lanlan last time, so today I came to keep my word.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[10] Huang Zhaoyi smiled, “Last time I promised Auntie and Lanlan—I’m here to fulfill it.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>So that’s how it was.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[11] So that’s how it was.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng now understood—he’d been worried Huang’s mother might suddenly show up; if she did, his mom would go ballistic. At least before Song Yu was fully handled, he didn’t want to drag the Huang family into this.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[12] Li Heng understood now. He’d still been worried Huang Mu might suddenly show up—damn, that would’ve been a disaster. At least before Song Yu was fully handled, he didn’t want to drag the Huang family into it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After lunch, Chen Gaoyuan left without mentioning the “mission” at all.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[13] After lunch, Chen Gaoyuan left without mentioning the “mission” at all.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Since Chen Gaoyuan didn’t bring it up, Chen Zi Jin quietly breathed a sigh of relief and naturally wouldn’t mention it either.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[14] Since Chen Gaoyuan didn’t bring it up, Chen Zijin quietly exhaled in relief—and naturally, she wouldn’t either.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Regarding the matter her grandfather had entrusted her with, although she hadn’t openly contradicted him in the study, she hadn’t taken it seriously inside.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[15] Regarding the matter Grandpa had assigned, Chen Zijin hadn’t openly contradicted him in the study, but inside, she hadn’t taken it seriously.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To be honest, she felt both gratitude and resentment toward the Chen family that raised her.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[16] To be honest, she felt both gratitude and resentment toward the Chen family that had raised her.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If her family hadn’t forcefully insisted she leave Shao City High School to attend Beijing No. 4 High, she and Li Heng would’ve stayed together perfectly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[17] If her family hadn’t collectively forced her to leave Shaoshi No.1 High School for Beijing No.4 High, she and Li Heng would’ve stayed together perfectly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wherever Li Heng went, she would go too. There would’ve been no Xiao Han or Song Yu, and no room for Mai Sui or Yu Shuheng.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[18] Wherever Li Heng went, she went. There’d be no room for Xiao Han or Song Yu, let alone Mai Sui or Yu Shuheng.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She never regretted giving herself to Li Heng that morning; since her family didn’t support her early on, she wouldn’t beg them for help now.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[19] She never regretted giving herself to Li Heng that morning. Since her family hadn’t helped her at first, she wouldn’t turn back to beg them now.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>So she completely ignored her grandfather’s belated warmth and didn’t want her man caught in the middle, struggling.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[20] So, she ignored Grandpa’s belated warmth entirely—she didn’t want her man caught in the middle, struggling.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Chen Zi Jin had already envisioned the worst outcome: her mother kicking her out of the Chen family, and her living permanently with the Lis.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[21] Chen Zijin had already envisioned the worst outcome: her mother expelling her from the Chen household, and her spending the rest of her life in the Li home, never returning.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After all, Aunt Tian and Uncle Li had already assured her: they’d spend the rest of their lives with her, and wherever her career took her, they’d move to be by her side.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[22] After all, Tian Yi and Uncle Li had already assured her: they’d spend the rest of their lives with her; wherever her career took her, they’d move to be beside her.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This promise had been made by Li Jianguo and Tian Run’e not long ago to reassure Zi Jin.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[23] This was the promise Li Jianguo and Tian Rune had made recently to ease Zijin’s heart.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And the couple weren’t just saying it—they genuinely meant it and had already planned it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[24] And the couple hadn’t spoken lightly—they truly thought this way, and truly planned it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They’d discussed it: if their son ever married Song Yu or someone else, they’d visit occasionally for a few months a year, but otherwise, they’d stay by Zi Jin’s side.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[25] They’d already discussed it: if their son ever married Song Yu or another woman, they’d visit for a stretch once a year at most—but otherwise, they’d stay by Zijin’s side.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Jianguo and Tian Run’e’s intention was obvious—they wanted their son to stay true to his roots. After all, Zi Jin had endured hardship alongside him, met him in adversity, never left his side, and throughout their struggles, remained gentle, virtuous, and never complained—not just toward the Li elders, but toward their son too. They didn’t want their son to abandon such a wonderful daughter-in-law.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[26] Li Jianguo and Tian Rune’s motive was obvious: they wanted their son to never forget his roots. After all, Zijin had endured hardship alongside him, met him in crisis, stayed loyal through everything, and remained gentle and virtuous toward Li family elders and their son alike, never complaining. They didn’t want their son to abandon such a wonderful daughter-in-law.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Of course, the couple’s actions were also deeply considered.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[27] Of course, the couple had deeply considered this.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was, frankly, their only option.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[28] It was the only way left.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Song Yu, Xiao Han, and Teacher Yu were like celestial beings—each stunningly beautiful, and then there was Mai Sui, irresistibly alluring—each a serious threat to Zi Jin.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[29] Song Yu, Xiao Han, and Teacher Yu were like celestial beings—all stunningly beautiful, and with Mai Sui, whose allure dripped into her bones, they all posed too great a threat to Zijin.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Jianguo and Tian Run’e believed: if they didn’t support Zi Jin, their son might get so distracted by his outside adventures that he’d eventually forget Zi Jin.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[30] Li Jianguo and Tian Rune believed: if they didn’t help Zijin, their son would get so distracted outside he’d forget her entirely.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If the couple stayed by Zi Jin’s side, even if their son enjoyed himself wildly outside, he’d still have to come home occasionally each year, giving Zi Jin precious chances to be alone with him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[31] If the couple stayed by Zijin’s side, even if their son enjoyed himself wildly outside, he’d still have to return home a few times a year—giving Zijin chances to be alone with him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Jianguo and Tian Run’e were both middle-aged, having weathered decades of hardship; they valued Zi Jin’s unwavering loyalty above all—it was a quality no beauty or family background could buy, and it was the most precious treasure for their son and the Li family.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[32] Li Jianguo and Tian Rune were both middle-aged, having weathered decades of hardship and countless trials; thus, they valued Zijin’s unwavering loyalty above all—it was a quality no beauty or family background could buy, the most precious treasure for their son and the Li family.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>So even though they disliked the Chen family, they felt deep tenderness and concern for Zi Jin.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[33] So even though they disliked the Chen family, they doted on Zijin deeply.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Thanks to Li Jianguo and Tian Run’e’s assurance, Chen Zi Jin could now comfortably live as a Li daughter-in-law, accompanying the couple on outings without guilt, and entering and leaving the Li home without fear.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[34] Precisely because of Li Jianguo and Tian Rune’s assurance, Chen Zijin could now confidently act as the Li family’s daughter-in-law, accompanying the couple on outings, entering and leaving the Li home without a single worry.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>…\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[35]…\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At 2:30 p.m., Huang Zhaoyi was scheduled to perform.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[36] At 2:30 p.m., Huang Zhaoyi was to take the stage.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Peking opera enthusiast Tian Run’e immediately dropped everything, grabbed her husband, and got into Da Qingyi’s car.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[37] The Peking opera fan Tian Rune immediately dropped everything, dragged her husband into Da Qingyi’s car.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Chen Zi Jin linked arms with him and asked with a smile, “Do you want to watch Huang sister’s Peking opera? It’s really good.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[38] Chen Zijin linked arms with him and smiled sweetly, “Do you want to watch Sister Huang’s Peking opera? It’s amazing.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hearing this, Huang Zhaoyi paused mid-step, turning to look at Li Heng, a flicker of hope in her eyes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[39] Hearing this, Huang Zhaoyi paused mid-step, turned to Li Heng, and a flicker of hope flashed deep in her pupils.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng was tempted, but he met Da Qingyi’s gaze with an apologetic look and said, “I have to leave Beijing tomorrow afternoon—I need to visit Xin Weilai Tutoring School.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[40] Li Heng was tempted, but he met Da Qingyi’s gaze with an apologetic look, then said, “I have to leave Jingcheng tomorrow afternoon—I need to go to Xin Weilai Tutoring School.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Huang Zhaoyi got into the car and drove off with the elderly couple.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[41] Hearing this, Huang Zhaoyi got into the car and drove off with the elderly couple.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng held Zi Jin’s hand, first stopping by his second sister’s cake shop to chat with their childhood friend Zou Jiao.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[42] Li Heng then took Zijin’s hand, first visiting his second sister’s cake shop to chat with their childhood friend Zou Jiao.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing how close they were, Zou Jiao enviously told Chen Zi Jin, “Zi Jin, among all our childhood friends, he only ever cared for you—I never imagined you two would actually become husband and wife.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[43] Seeing how close they were, Zou Jiao enviously told Chen Zijin, “Zijin, among all our childhood friends, he’s only ever been kind to you—I never thought you two would actually become husband and wife.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Chen Zi Jin beamed like she’d drunk honey and asked sweetly, “Are you going home for the New Year this year?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[44] Chen Zijin beamed like she’d drunk honey and asked, “Are you going home for the New Year?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zou Jiao rested her chin on her hand, thoughtfully replied, “No, it’s too far—I need to work hard and save money for my dowry.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[45] Zou Jiao propped her chin on her right hand, thought carefully, then said, “No, it’s too far. I’m working hard to save money for my dowry.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng asked, “Zou Jiao, have you found someone special?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[46] Li Heng asked, “Old Jiao, have you found someone you like?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zou Jiao shook her head, “No. In a big city like Beijing, how could a girl from the countryside easily find someone? I’ll probably end up marrying back in my hometown.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[47] Zou Jiao shook her head. “No. In a place like Jingcheng, how could a country girl like me easily find someone? I’ll probably have to marry back home.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The three chatted a while longer about marriage, then turned to Li Lan.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[48] They talked a while longer about marriage, then shifted to Li Lan.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zou Jiao told them that since opening her shop, Li Lan had been pursued by many—government officials, college students, even Tsinghua professors, and locals—but she turned them all down.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[49] Zou Jiao told them that since opening her shop, Li Lan had been pursued by many—government officials, university students, Tsinghua professors, even locals—but Li Lan had turned them all down.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Chen Zi Jin listened thoughtfully; after leaving the bakery, she asked him, “Is my second sister still thinking about that boy from vocational school?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[50] Chen Zijin listened thoughtfully; after leaving the bakery, she asked him, “Does Second Sister still think about that boy from her vocational school days?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>That boy was her second sister’s husband in her past life; Li Heng said, “I’ve had the same feeling.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[51] That boy had been Second Sister’s husband in her past life. Li Heng said, “I feel the same.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Chen Zi Jin praised, “Second sister is so devoted.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[52] Chen Zijin praised, “Second Sister is so devoted.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng blinked, saying nothing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[53] Li Heng blinked, saying nothing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing his silence, Chen Zi Jin seemed to realize something and deliberately pouted:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[54] Seeing he didn’t respond, Chen Zijin seemed to realize something, then deliberately puckered her lips and said:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“They say dragons have nine offspring—it’s proven true in your three siblings.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[55] “They say dragons have nine sons—it’s proven true in your three siblings.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The eldest is a bit silly, very straightforward.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[56] The eldest sister is a bit foolish, very plain.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The second is a bit fierce, cunning as a fox, but deeply loyal.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[57] The second sister is a bit fierce, sly as a fox, but devoted.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As for the third brother, hehe... hehe...!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[58] As for the youngest… hehe… hehe…\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng feigned anger, whispering threateningly in her ear, “Dare to tease me? I’ll punish you tonight!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[59] Li Heng feigned anger and whispered in her ear, “Dare to mock me? I’ll enforce the family rules tonight!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Unexpectedly, Chen Zi Jin, cheeks flushed, abandoned her usual reserve and smiled sweetly, saying, “Okay.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[60] Unexpectedly, Chen Zijin, cheeks flushed, abandoned her usual reserve and smiled sweetly, “Okay.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They hadn’t seen each other so long—she truly missed him, longed to curl up in his arms and sleep.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[61] They hadn’t seen each other so long—she truly missed him, longed to curl up in his arms and sleep.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The two strolled around, buying snacks, and even visited Xin Weilai Tutoring School.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[62] They wandered the streets, buying snacks along the way, and even stopped by Xin Weilai Tutoring School.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing Li Heng arrive with Chen Zi Jin, Wang Ye was surprised, but soon understood.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[63] Seeing Li Heng arrive with Chen Zijin, Wang Ye was surprised—but soon understood perfectly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She was surprised he had a lover in Beijing—he was far more flirtatious than she’d imagined.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[64] She was surprised Li Heng had a lover in Jingcheng—far more fickle than she’d imagined.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She understood: Chen Zi Jin was beautiful enough that wealthy Hong Kong tycoons often kept mistresses.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[65] She understood: Chen Zijin was beautiful enough—many Hong Kong tycoons kept mistresses.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then Wang Ye grew frustrated: Li Heng had refused her bet—apparently her own external qualities weren’t impressive enough.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[66] Then Wang Ye grew frustrated: Li Heng had refused her bet—apparently her own appearance wasn’t impressive enough.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At the time, three classes were in session; Li Heng listened briefly at each window, feeling very satisfied, then went to the teaching research group to review this month’s progress.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[67] At the time, three classes were in session; Li Heng listened briefly at each window, feeling thoroughly satisfied, then visited the teaching research group to review this month’s results.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Half an hour later, he put down the textbook and asked Wang Ye, “Are you getting used to it here?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[68] Half an hour later, he set down the textbooks and asked Wang Ye, “Are you getting used to it here?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wang Ye replied, “Besides adjusting to the food, everything else is fine.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[69] Wang Ye replied, “Besides adjusting to the food, everything else is fine.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng asked, “How’s the handover going?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[70] Li Heng asked, “How’s the handover going?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wang Ye said, “Liu Bei explained everything in detail—I haven’t found any issues so far.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[71] Wang Ye said, “Liu Bei explained everything in detail; so far, no issues found.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hearing this, Li Heng nodded approvingly, then chatted with her for another half-hour before preparing to leave.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[72] Hearing this, Li Heng nodded in satisfaction, chatted with her another half-hour, then prepared to leave.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As he turned to go, Wang Ye remembered something and called out, “Mr. Li, a group came to the school yesterday looking for Li Ran.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[73] As he turned to go, Wang Ye remembered something and called out, “Mr. Li, yesterday a group came to the school looking for Li Ran.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng stopped and turned, asking, “Were they surnamed Zhao?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[74] Li Heng stopped, turned, and asked, “Were they surnamed Zhao?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wang Ye nodded.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[75] Wang Ye said yes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng raised an eyebrow: “Did they give you trouble?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[76] Li Heng raised an eyebrow. “Did they give you trouble?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wang Ye said, “They hovered around me at first, but once they learned Li Ran had truly left Xin Weilai, they left.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[77] Wang Ye said, “They pestered me for a while, but once they learned Li Ran had truly left Xin Weilai, they left.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng asked, “How many?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[78] Li Heng asked, “How many?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wang Ye replied, “Two men, two women.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[79] Wang Ye said, “Two men, two women.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng instructed, “If this happens again, tell me directly. If you can’t reach me, call my teacher.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[80] Li Heng instructed, “If this happens again, tell me directly. If you can’t reach me, call my teacher.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He’d wanted to say “call Da Qingyi,” but Zi Jin was right there, so he passed the buck to Professor Ba.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[81] He’d wanted to say call Da Qingyi, but Zijin was beside him—he could only dump the responsibility on Old Ba.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After all, the professor knew everything about his surroundings—if he couldn’t handle it, he’d naturally contact Teacher Yu or Da Qingyi.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[82] After all, his teacher knew everything about his affairs—if the old man couldn’t handle it, he’d naturally contact Teacher Yu or Da Qingyi.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Understood, Mr. Li.” With his instructions, Wang Ye felt reassured.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[83] “Understood, Mr. Li.” With the instruction, Wang Ye felt reassured.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Leaving Xin Weilai, Li Heng asked, “Wife, where do you want to go?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[84] Leaving Xin Weilai, Li Heng asked, “Wife, where do you want to go?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Chen Zi Jin smiled sweetly, “I want to visit Tsinghua University.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[85] Chen Zijin smiled sweetly, “I want to visit Tsinghua University.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng asked, “To see Old Rags?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[86] Li Heng asked, “To see Old Rags?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Chen Zi Jin linked arms with him, half-pouting, “Mm-hmm, I promised her I’d take you to dinner when you came.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[87] Chen Zijin linked arms with him, half-pouting, “Mm-hmm. I promised her I’d bring you to treat her to dinner when you came.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng said, “Alright.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[88] Li Heng said, “Fine.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>When they arrived at Tsinghua University, it was just dusk—dinnertime.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[89] They arrived at Tsinghua University just as evening fell—perfect dinner time.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yang Yingwen had gotten much darker, but her figure looked even more striking—the fabric barely contained her curves.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[90] Yang Yingwen had grown much darker, but her figure had even more visual impact—the fabric barely contained her, straining to hold back.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yang Yingwen immediately asked, “You brought your wife out—you must be in a good mood. Are you treating me to a fancy meal?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[91] Yang Yingwen immediately asked, “Taking your wife out? You must be in a good mood—time to treat me to a big meal?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng turned to Zi Jin, “Ask my wife—I do whatever she says.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[92] Li Heng turned to Zijin. “Ask my wife—I do whatever she says.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yang Yingwen rolled her eyes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[93] Yang Yingwen rolled her eyes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Chen Zi Jin beamed and took them to an upscale restaurant, then asked, “Yingwen, who was the guy you were with just now?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[94] Chen Zijin beamed and led them to a high-end restaurant, then asked, “Yingwen, who was the guy you were with just now?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yang Yingwen said, “Our class monitor—he’s been covering for me since I missed so many classes. I was going to treat him to dinner as thanks, but since you two showed up, I had to cancel.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[95] Yang Yingwen said, “Our class monitor. I missed so many classes this semester—he covered for me with the professors. I planned to treat him to dinner as thanks, but since you two showed up, I had to ditch him.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng asked, “Missed so many classes? Won’t that hurt your studies?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[96] Li Heng asked, “Missed a lot of classes? Won’t that hurt your studies?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“You think I’m you? Writing books and composing music—you’re great at that. But exams? I’ve always crushed you. The textbook material? Just skim it once and you’re set. I can’t understand how people even got into Tsinghua if they struggle with this.” Yang Yingwen allowed herself rare pride.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[97] “You think I’m you? You’re great at writing books and composing music—but when it comes to exams, when have I ever not crushed you? That textbook knowledge? Just flip through it once and you’ve got it. I can’t understand how people who struggle even got into Tsinghua.” Yang Yingwen allowed herself rare pride.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She’d scored a direct hit—Li Heng had no comeback.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[98] She’d scored a point—Li Heng had no retort.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Throughout school, his biggest dream had been to outperform Old Rags once—but that dream was impossibly distant; he’d failed every single time.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[99] Throughout his student life, his greatest wish had been to outscore Old Rags once—but that wish was impossibly distant; he’d failed every single time.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Watching them bicker, Chen Zi Jin laughed heartily, feeling as if she’d returned to childhood, when Li Heng and Yingwen would provoke each other until they ended up fighting.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[100] Watching them bicker, Chen Zijin laughed with pure joy—it felt like childhood again, when Li Heng and Yingwen picked fights, and ended up fighting.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Midway through the meal, Yang Yingwen asked him, “Li Heng, when are you going back home?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng understood immediately: “You want me to take something back.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yang Yingwen pulled out five hundred yuan from his pocket: “Give it to my mom—secretly, don’t let that guy know.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“That guy” referred to Yang’s father.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng took the money, slipped it into his pocket, and said, “I won’t be going back anytime soon, but if you’re in a hurry, I can arrange for someone to deliver it ahead of time.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yang Yingwen waved his hand: “No rush—wait until you come back from your fieldwork.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Speaking of fieldwork, Old Rag muttered with a hint of bitterness: “Your fame is real now. After our schoolmates found out I’m your old hometown friend, half the campus came asking me about you—even the teachers.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng joked: “That’s a good thing, right? Any handsome guys?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“What do I need handsome guys for? I’m not looking to date anyone right now,” Yang Yingwen shot back, eyes wide. If it weren’t for Zijin sitting there, he’d have roasted this heartless radish properly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After the meal, the three took a stroll.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Afraid someone might notice, afraid word might reach Song Yu next door, Yang Yingwen wisely didn’t take them to campus. They just wandered the streets, stopping to snack, eat ice cream, drink soda, and chat about childhood—full of nostalgia, marveling at how fast time flew, how they were almost twenty already.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Unaware, night was falling. Li Heng invited: “Old Rag, want to come over to my place for a bit?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yang Yingwen refused outright: “No way. They say a night of passion is worth a thousand gold—between the two of you, you’ve got no time to spare for me. Bye!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>With a cheerful “bye,” Old Rag turned and headed toward Qinghua.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Chen Zijin’s face flushed crimson at the remark; she leaned against his arm, eyes sparkling as she gazed at him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng breathed warm air into her ear: “Missed me?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Chen Zijin smiled slyly, glancing at him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Let’s go home.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Okay.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Don’t say you’re tired later.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Typical you~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>When they returned to the Drum Tower Li household, the house was dark and silent.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Jianguo and Tian Rune weren’t home.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Second sister Li Lan wasn’t there either.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But a note sat on the coffee table: “Little brother, I took Mom and Dad to stay at the house near Renmin University tonight. I’ll be back tomorrow morning to make breakfast.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Perfect—this was clearly an open invitation for them to go wild.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After reading the note, Chen Zijin couldn’t bear to meet his eyes and pretended she needed to shower to escape.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ho! Who was Li Heng, anyway?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He hadn’t eaten properly in ages—how could he pass up such a golden opportunity? He tossed the note aside and dashed straight into the shower.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Soon, a continuous chant echoed from inside:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Goose, goose, goose,”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Bending its neck to sing to the sky.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“White feathers float on green water,”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Red webbed feet stir the clear waves.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>That night, they indulged fully—Chen Zijin was especially obedient, cooperating completely. She perfectly embodied the saying: “Three years without a feast, one feast lasts three years.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Just after three in the morning, Li Heng finally stopped, his right hand gently stroking her smooth back, staring at the ceiling, savoring the madness.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Chen Zijin rested her head on his chest: “Husband, when will you come back from Aba?” Li Heng replied: “Depends on circumstances. Plan is about a month—I’ll write you letters.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Mm.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She murmured, then asked: “Won’t it be hard to send mail from there?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng agreed: “Then on weekends, I’ll try to find a phone and call you.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Chen Zijin finally nodded, satisfied.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The reunited pair spent the remaining hours whispering intimate words, not even thinking of sleep.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But as they chatted happily, Chen Zijin suddenly said: “I had a strange dream the other day.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng asked: “What dream?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Chen Zijin hesitated: “I dreamed Li Jun died—buried in military uniform.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Huh?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng turned his head: “Why would you dream something like that?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I don’t know—that’s why it’s strange,” Chen Zijin said, puzzled.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng thought a moment: “Have you been in touch with her lately?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Chen Zijin shook her head: “No. But I ran into Liu Li at the cafeteria once—he said Li Jun wrote him a letter last week. But I didn’t dare ask what it said.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng rummaged through his memories—but nothing changed. In his past life, he’d lost contact with Chen Lijun after the college entrance exam; he couldn’t recall her life path at all.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Forget it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After another round of thinking yielded nothing, he gave up.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Actually, he’d thought of Song Yu—Chen Lijun had always been closest to her. Maybe they were still in contact.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And Song Yu was also close to Maisui—so why had she stopped seeing Maisui?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Damn, what a mystery.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He asked: “How’s Liu Li doing at school?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Chen Zijin said with a knowing tone: “Liu Li’s life is full now. One senior girl seems to have taken a fancy to him—she drags him out for morning exercises every day.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng laughed: “Isn’t Old Liu the one who hates exercise the most?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Chen Zijin said: “Who knows? Maybe he’s enjoying it now.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Time flew—before they knew it, dawn broke.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Facing separation, Chen Zijin clung to him, dragging him into another session studying the Drainage Cultivation Manual.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This time, Li Heng unleashed real skill—heroic and commanding, leading tens of millions of troops to sweep the battlefield, forcing Chen Zijin to beg for mercy, surrender her gates, and let the army pour in.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Around 7:30 a.m., Li Jianguo and his wife returned home and immediately started cooking.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Lan came back too, her gaze lingering on Zijin’s face, thinking inwardly: Women truly can’t live without men—being nourished makes all the difference.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>While Zijin tidied the bedroom, Tian Rune emerged from the kitchen, wincing as she rubbed her fingers, lowering her voice to ask:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Manzi, I’ve got to ask you—Song Yu, Zijin, Xiao Han, Maisui, and Teacher Yu—that’s five already. Is that enough?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng, sleep-deprived, yawned and nodded vaguely.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Tian Rune pressed: “And you really haven’t got any bad intentions toward that Zhou girl?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng rolled his eyes twice: “Mom, what are you thinking? We’re just normal friends.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Tian Rune didn’t believe him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng explained: “Maisui and Zhou Shihe are best friends. Teacher Yu and Zhou Shihe don’t get along. And I’m constantly under Maisui and Teacher Yu’s watchful eyes—how could I possibly do anything inappropriate?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Tian Rune frowned: “Inappropriate? You’ve done plenty already. Isn’t Zijin exactly what you stole under our noses?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng protested: “What do you mean ‘stole’? We both wanted it!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Tian Rune sneered: “Then what about seducing a college teacher—is that not inappropriate?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng held up two fingers solemnly: “Me and Teacher Yu are like green onions with tofu—clear and clean, Mom. Don’t slander me.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Sleeping in the same bed is ‘clear and clean’? Holding hands picking mushrooms is ‘green onions with tofu’? Hugging Teacher Yu from behind—is that Chinese medicine adjustment? Do you think I’m illiterate? I’m a college graduate!” Tian Run’e snapped, grabbing his arm and pinching it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng: “...”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Tian Rune pressed: “Five is enough! You need at least two days off a week!!!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her tone grew sharper.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing she was truly angry, Li Heng hurriedly said: “Enough! Enough!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Tian Rune muttered darkly: “Everyone thinks you wrote Bai Luyuan from imagination. Only I know—it’s your own life story.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>What’s in the book is nothing—what you do in real life is wilder! In high school, your four-girl clique—only that Chen Lijun escaped unscathed. The other three? All fallen.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Stop! Stop! Stop!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng shivered, frantically interrupting: “What do you mean ‘fallen’? They’re all your daughters-in-law!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Tian Rune sighed: “I’d rather have fewer daughters-in-law.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng blinked: “It’s already done—why keep bringing it up? Who made me this handsome? I’m already holding back. It’s not easy for me.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Tian Rune laughed bitterly: “So it’s my fault you’re good-looking? I didn’t make you a playboy.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng didn’t want to argue further: “I’m leaving soon. Other mothers cry when their kids leave—do you want to beat me with a stick?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Tian Rune ignored him, repeating: “Five is enough. If you take another, I’ll take Zijin and become a nun.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng pouted: “Don’t flatter yourself—Zijin won’t follow you to become a nun.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Tian Rune couldn’t take it anymore—she grabbed a feather duster and lunged. Li Heng bolted out the door and vanished down the alley.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Lan arrived, seeing her mother fuming, and asked: “What now? You’re wielding a feather duster at such an outstanding son? Watch out—he might become a live-in son-in-law.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Tian Rune ignored the second half, briefly retelling the earlier question.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Lan chuckled: “Heh! There’s a saying: ‘Nature is hard to change.’ Don’t you know your own son? I suggest you become a nun right now—be sincere, skip breakfast, grab your things, and leave.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Tian Rune slumped onto the sofa, furious: “Analyze this for me—will he go after that Zhou girl?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Lan asked curiously: “Why focus on Zhou Shihe? You don’t monitor other girls this tightly.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Tian Rune said: “I won’t let him chase any other girls. But her—I’m afraid I can’t control him.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Lan asked: “Afraid she’ll seduce your brother?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Tian Rune replied: “I’ve watched her closely—she wouldn’t do that. I’m afraid your brother will chase her relentlessly.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Lan had also spent a few days with Zhou Shihe and knew her mother’s words were true; she suggested, “You’ve always wanted to meet Song Yu—why haven’t you gone yet?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I got to the gates of Peking University twice, but turned back,” Tian Rune said.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Lan asked, “Why did you turn back?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Tian Rune said, “I asked Li Ran. He said Song Yu is extremely beautiful, and I got nervous.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Lan frowned. “Huh? Nervous? You’re the mother-in-law; she’s your daughter-in-law. Why are you nervous?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Tian Rune said, “There are things I can’t say.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Just then, Chen Zijin stepped out of the bedroom; the mother and daughter immediately switched topics, chatting about the pastry shop’s business.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After breakfast, Li Heng took Zijin to school.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At a pastry shop near Renmin University’s gate, Chen Zijin hugged him and pleaded, “Husband, remember to write me a letter once you get there.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Alright, I won’t forget,” Li Heng said, leaning down to kiss her.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Only then did Chen Zijin turn and walk into the school.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because there were too many people watching, Li Heng had specifically worn a baseball cap today, yet even so, he dared not get too close to Renmin University—afraid rumors might harm Zijin and Song Yu.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Lan watched coldly; once Chen Zijin was gone, she sneered, “Honestly, if you weren’t my brother, I’d have called the police already. Zijin is too wronged.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng said nothing, stepped outside, found a phone, and called Yu’s home.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After he hung up, Li Lan was surprised: “Just leave? You won’t sneak a peek at Song Yu?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng said, “I promised I’d only meet Zijin this time. I can’t deceive her.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Hah! Hypocritical! Fake! Insincere! False!” Li Lan’s lips flapped, spitting out nothing but harsh words.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng sat there as if he hadn’t heard; the moment the Mercedes appeared, he grabbed his bag and slipped inside.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As soon as he got in, he asked, “Hey, Sister Liu, why isn’t Teacher Yu here?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liu Bei said, “Miss Yu went straight to the airport. She’s waiting for you there.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng paused, then understood—Teacher Yu didn’t want to meet Chen Zijin, so she waited for him at the airport.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After the car drove a stretch, Liu Bei said, “Mr. Li, Teacher Wang Runwen hasn’t resigned yet. He’s still teaching at Shaodong No. 1 High School.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Really?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Absolutely true.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng fell silent, wondering why his English teacher had appeared at Shanghai’s airport the day before.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing him close his eyes and rest, Liu Bei didn’t disturb him, focusing on driving.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>When the car reached the airport, Li Heng was asleep; it was Teacher Yu who woke him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng studied him for a moment, frowned slightly, and felt a pang inside. “Didn’t you sleep all night?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng answered instantly: “I played cards with the old couple for hours last night.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng glanced at him, said nothing, and turned toward the check-in counter.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She wasn’t stupid; she knew this boy well—he’d probably spent the whole night tangled up with Chen Zijin.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>On the plane, Li Heng slept the entire time.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng spent the first half reading the newspaper; the second half, her attention was entirely on him, lost in thought, her mind blank.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This trip to Chengdu added one more person: Xu Suyun.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng had brought this close friend along to help her relax.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xu Suyun, burdened by her own worries, paid little attention to Li Heng and Yu Shuheng, her head pressed against the window, staring blankly at the clouds outside.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After three hours in the air, the group landed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As they walked out with the crowd, Yu Shuheng suddenly whispered beside him, “Do you want Runwen to come?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng turned his head toward her, wondering how much of that was real and how much was false.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng spoke without expression: “Rather than you constantly chasing after other women, why not let Runwen serve you?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Sweat broke on Li Heng’s forehead—he realized she was jealous.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He glanced at Xu Suyun walking ahead, then spoke slowly: “Teacher, that’s not like you.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At that moment, Yu Shuheng was as cold as an ice mountain, radiating bone-chilling chill: “You spend an entire night with one woman—how many women are there? Will your body even last until I marry you?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For the first time, she spoke so plainly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Such recklessness worried her—he might collapse soon.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>More clearly, she admitted: she wanted to marry him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her words expressed both resentment and clear affection.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng instinctively wanted to argue, but when he met her deep, black-hole-like gaze, he swallowed his words and finally said, “Teacher, don’t worry—I still want to live to ninety.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng stared at his profile, her red lips moving, but she chose to stop there.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At the meeting point, Li Heng saw Ceng Yun, Director Liao, and another tall, straight-backed young woman.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And another middle-aged female doctor named Gu Yao.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After greetings, Yu Shuheng introduced the young woman to him: “This is Liu Ying. She served in the military for ten years.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng asked, “How old is she?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng said, “Thirty-three.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng muttered, “Her build looks like she can fight—probably able to spar with me for a few rounds.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng said, “She’s from Shen Xin’s side. I waited three years to get her. If you think you’re worthy, go train with her.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng’s hands itched. “Training’s a must—I’ll show someone just how strong my body really is.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng glanced at him, sensing his resentment, implying it indirectly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After packing up, the eight of them set off in four cars, fully loaded with daily necessities and medical supplies, just in case.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>On the road, Li Heng asked, “Is Doctor Gu also from the military?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng said yes. “I’m afraid ordinary doctors couldn’t handle this high-altitude climate.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hearing this, Li Heng sincerely thanked her: “Thank you, Teacher.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“What’s the point of formalities between us? If you really want to thank me, fulfill my biggest wish.” As the altitude rose along the route, Yu Shuheng still had no smile, but her tone had softened considerably since the airport.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>What was her biggest wish?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She had no lack of money, food, or drink; she could fly anywhere instantly. With nothing missing, what mattered most to her was clearly her emotional life.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And as a woman, the ultimate destination of emotion was marriage—marrying a man, raising children.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng understood her implication, but held the steering wheel for a long time without answering.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He didn’t respond, and she wasn’t disappointed—as if she’d expected nothing else.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For a while, the car was silent, broken only by the sound of tires crushing small stones.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>PS: Posted first, edited later.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>(End of Chapter)\u003C\u002Fp>",6544,"2026-06-19T15:27:37.100Z",1,"Qwen3-Next 80B","b1cac12ae63bbeed27cebd1356096288dc6d9f4028873cd3a8da54eeddcb6936","1987-my-era-chapter-534","1987-my-era-chapter-532",713,"https:\u002F\u002Fnovelzhen.com\u002Fimages\u002Fcovers\u002F1987-my-era-cover.jpg"]