Chapter 1373: You are truly too dedicated

It was not until he heard a series of discussions and questions regarding military affairs from his father-in-law that Li Xuewu began to reflect; it seemed he had been wrong.

Regardless of how his father-in-law had made his choice back then, he had played an active role in pushing for his father-in-law to transfer away from Yangcheng and take the initiative to recuperate.

Asking himself honestly, was it all for his father-in-law's sake? Was there not a shred of selfish motive, fearing that his father-in-law was in a position too high to be comfortable?

Looking at his father-in-law, who remained passionate and concerned about the development of military affairs, and who did not hide his disappointment in him—a son-in-law who had already decided to place his future focus on corporate development—Li Xuewu began to doubt himself as well.

If he had transferred directly to the Third Guard Regiment to develop when the 816th Regiment merged with the Public Security Brigade, would he have had better prospects?

That might have fulfilled his father-in-law's hopes, but thinking carefully, without the foundation of the Red Star Factory, even with all his talent, he would have lacked a stage upon which to perform.

Even if he were adept at social maneuvering and could attend to both sides, there would always come a day when he would neglect one for the other, and in the end, he would gain nothing from either.

One cannot have both fish and bear's paw.

Even if he could sense his father-in-law's regret regarding his life choices, for himself, the enterprise held more long-term potential.

Furthermore, both his brother-in-law and his younger brother-in-law were in the military; the Gu family's influence in the armed forces would not be diminished by one less person, nor increased by one more.

His father-in-law's regret mostly stemmed from himself. He had wasted his professional career over the past two years and feared it would be difficult to make a comeback later.

His eldest brother-in-law was mature but lacked sharpness, while his younger brother-in-law was ambitious and brave, yet somewhat flighty.

Gu Haitao thought very highly of Li Xuewu, this son-in-law of his, especially regarding his work ability.

In the absence of family assistance, he had been able to achieve these results in the current Beijing by his own strength.

He certainly would not think that his son-in-law had borrowed the Gu family's influence; to say there was none would be impossible. But to say there was, would be truly unfair to his son-in-law.

An important reason why Gu Yan admired and trusted his brother-in-law was that his brother-in-law never avoided his identity as a Gu family son-in-law, yet he never used this identity or relationship to seek benefits.

He was easygoing and polite to relatives, respectful and humble to elders, and concerned and responsible toward his family; how could one not respect and admire him?

Even Gu An, who had little contact and had only met him a few times since they became acquainted, could see that his brother-in-law possessed depth of character and strategic vision while listening to him talk with his father in the study.

Looking at his son-in-law's performance, how could Gu Haitao not feel regret in his heart? If Li Xuewu had remained in the military to develop, his future ceiling would certainly be much higher than that of his two sons.

He was a professional soldier and an academic, viewing the international situation with more of a strategic perspective.

With the "egg" having cracked a few times over the past two years, he was certain there would be no more devastating major wars to fight within the next 30 years.

Relying solely on quality and professional skills would not take one far; what was important was the foundation of political ideology.

Precisely in this regard, both Gu An and Gu Yan lacked the necessary qualities.

Gu An was slightly better, but his shortcomings were not hard to see from his resume. He had always served as a primary officer and lacked experience in political management.

If it were a chaotic era, he might still be able to grasp the right to speak, but in a peaceful era, a military officer could only be a tiger raised in a cage.

Li Xuewu was different. He had both grassroots management experience and had been tempered by society, and he possessed rich political thinking and leadership ability. As long as he was given a boost, he would be a tiger released from its cage.

It was a pity that this tiger's ambitions did not lie there. Although he still held a position in the Garrison District, he was essentially ignoring it.

Gu Haitao had the heart to persuade him, but after hearing his son-in-law's clear outlook and exposition on the future, he gave up.

Such a complete career plan was something even he could not have achieved when he was young. Children and grandchildren have their own fortunes.

The climate in Jin Ling was still somewhat different from that of Beijing; the summer might not feel very obvious, but the winter was another matter.

Although the heating was on in the Western-style house, Li Xuewu was not used to sleeping there and got up early.

He had intended to exercise in the courtyard, but as soon as he went downstairs, he saw his father-in-law already in the living room, looking as if he were about to go out.

"Why not sleep a little longer?" Gu Haitao looked at his son-in-law and nodded, signaling: "It doesn't matter. The journey was tiring; I told the attendant that breakfast would be served a little later."

"I'm not very tired; I just couldn't sleep anymore." Li Xuewu smiled and asked, "Are you going out?"

"Yes, just for a stroll." Gu Haitao looked at his son-in-law's attire, knowing he wasn't putting on an act, and said, "If you want to go for a walk, let's go together."

"Good, I was just wanting to see this famous historical school."

Li Xuewu gladly accepted his father-in-law's invitation, put on his wool overcoat, wore his leather-lined cotton hat, and gripped his leather gloves.

He was tall, and the height difference between the father-in-law and son-in-law was quite obvious when they walked together. It was just that Li Xuewu lagged half a step behind his father-in-law, so the contrast wasn't as apparent.

Although Li Xuewu had been busy with official business over the years, he had not neglected his physical training. While his combat skills might have slightly regressed, his physique only appeared more robust, not clumsy.

His attire was already impressive, and walking beside his father-in-law, he appeared both noble and imposing. Especially the scar on his face, which made him look even more fierce.

After transferring to civilian work, he had been working in the security department, and his majesty had long been carved into his bones; no matter how he cultivated his character, this aura could not be wiped away for a time.

In Beijing and within the group, he could still maintain a gentle smile. Here at his father-in-law's place, with early-rising pedestrians passing by on the road, where would he have the opportunity to show a smile? He wasn't a fool.

There were those who recognized Gu Haitao; those whose rank was insufficient would step aside and salute, while those of sufficient rank could not avoid exchanging greetings.

As for the fierce-looking young man who appeared beside Gu Haitao and was walking with him, everyone they met had to take a few extra looks.

Gu Haitao was only a vice-president at the academy, not a standing committee member, and his work was very leisurely. The silence of these past few years had eased much of the sternness and tension on his face.

Although he still looked majestic, he did not appear harsh.

When encountering those who saluted, Gu Haitao would not say much, just nod, return the salute, and pass by.

If someone stopped to greet him, he would take the initiative to introduce Li Xuewu to the other party, saying he was his son-in-law.

Those who were truly close naturally knew the situation of the Gu family, as well as the situation of the Gu family's children.

Therefore, as soon as Gu Haitao said he was his son-in-law, many people were enlightened, and their gazes were quite inquisitive.

It was really because Ding Fengxia had praised her son-in-law too highly, and it became somewhat exaggerated after it spread.

However, Ding Fengxia intentionally wanted to vent this frustration for her daughter and for the Gu family, so she didn't really care.

Li Xuewu had been able to come to Jin Ling a few times, but this was only his first. Even if someone asked, what could they do? After all, the son-in-law's situation was solid; she was not a person who boasted.

It was a coincidence today; these people were comparing the information they had obtained from rumors while observing Li Xuewu.

Although his face was scarred, he did indeed look very young. But many people who followed the Gu family knew that this son-in-law was young.

The Confucius Temple was too chaotic, and the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum was too far; finally, they chose the Xinjiekou Department Store for their morning itinerary.

Of course, the Xinjiekou mentioned here was not the Xinjiekou in Beijing, but the Xinjiekou in Jin Ling.

Li Xuewu did not participate in the family outing in the morning. After eating dumplings, he took a car to the group's Jiangnan branch to conduct research and hold a meeting. Even though today was New Year's Day, he had to attend to official business first; even his father-in-law had to go to the duty room for a turn.

Gu An and Gu Yan also had a few friends to gather with in Jin Ling, so only the women and children went out together in the morning.

Jin Ling was an ancient capital of six dynasties; countless heroes had gathered here since the Three Kingdoms period, leaving behind many historical sites.

If one wanted to go sightseeing, there were indeed many places to go. But with the men not at home, how could the women take the children far away?

Browsing the department store became the first choice, which also fulfilled Ding Fengxia's wish to choose gifts for her children and grandchildren for the New Year.

With grandsons, an eldest grandson, and a daughter-in-law-to-be, it was quite an impressive group to bring out.

If she hadn't been much more low-key in the past two years, she would have wanted to take the children to the club for a turn.

At her age, she did not value position and career as much as men did; family was her daily concern.

When young, peers compared talent and progress. After marriage, they compared families and spouses. Now, she wanted to compare children and grandchildren even more. It truly fulfilled that saying: people are always competitive throughout their lives, comparing endlessly.

A woman's life is ultimately not comparable to a man's; the golden period of her career is very short, at most twenty years. She has to take care of her spouse, take care of her children, and even worry about her children and grandchildren when she is old.

She has to compare with outsiders, and she has to compare with family members.

When Gu Haitao called his sons and son-in-law upstairs last night, there was an "undercurrent" in the living room. It was between the sisters-in-law; watching their own men go upstairs with the elders, they couldn't help but compare. Looking back at themselves, how could they not feel jealous?

It was Ding Fengxia again, who took the initiative to ask about the living conditions of her eldest daughter-in-law and daughter, and also cared about the situation of her daughter-in-law-to-be.

Mu Hongyan was the eldest sister-in-law. She used to live with her mother-in-law, and the pressure was mainly on the next generation.

During those years, although her mother-in-law didn't say anything, she could still feel the elders' anticipation for children and grandchildren.

It happened that her father-in-law was transferred to Jin Ling, and her mother-in-law was also going to be transferred over. Only then did Mu Hongyan make up her mind to follow her husband to Xijing.

If there was a choice, who would be willing to abandon a familiar work environment and give up their work foundation? It was all for this family, for the sake of having a child, and to satisfy the elders' expectations.

It was said that she got what she wished for, but she ultimately had some regrets. If she had stayed in Beijing, perhaps she would have already progressed in her career and achieved more.

Living with her mother-in-law in Beijing, that was her father-in-law's residence, enjoying high-level services and treatment.

After going to Xijing, Gu An's rank was not high, and at the very least, he could not enjoy the attendant treatment. Even if they were assigned cadre housing, the conditions were average, and she had to arrange everything herself.

Coupled with the process of job transfer and familiarization, and suddenly becoming pregnant, she had indeed lived a hard life these past two years.

Returning to her mother-in-law's side, she found it difficult to express this hardship. After all, her mother-in-law was not her own mother, and saying too much would make her seem pretentious. If one really discussed it, wasn't the era her mother-in-law experienced even more difficult than her current one?

Therefore, when the mother-in-law and daughter-in-law gathered, watching the children playing around the sofa and listening to the greetings and concerns, she just smiled. But whether it was bitter or sweet in her heart, it was all hidden inside, and only she knew.

When her mother-in-law asked about Gu Ning's living conditions, how could Mu Hongyan suppress her envy and jealousy? She also knew that her sister-in-law's temperament was pure and thick, not someone who was sharp-tongued or competitive.

Just because of this, she felt even more sour inside.

When she was pregnant and wanted to eat something hot, she had to go to the cafeteria herself, or she had to do it herself.

Even after giving birth, it was her mother-in-law who rushed over to take care of her for a few days, and later it was her mother who came to visit her.

From pregnancy to childbirth, it wasn't that she hadn't thought about hiring a nanny to help, but how could Gu An dare, and he didn't have the conditions.

What about Gu Ning?

Li Xuewu truly spoiled her without limits; not only was there no shortage of nannies serving her at home, but she also didn't have to worry about trivial matters of life.

Her mother-in-law asked several questions about life in succession, and her sister-in-law couldn't answer a single one.

The answers were very uniform; they all had to be asked of Li Xuewu.

Food, clothing, housing, and transportation—she didn't care about any of it. Not long after her confinement, she was selected for a training class and had been there ever since.

After work, she ate and studied; only feeding the child counted as a matter, and she didn't have to worry about anything else. If she didn't like the cafeteria food for lunch at work, the nanny could send it to her office.

Even when her mother-in-law asked her about the relationships and interactions with relatives and friends, she couldn't answer, and it was all maintained by Li Xuewu.

She did know about the Li family's situation; if she couldn't even answer that, her mother-in-law would probably be angry.

This wasn't even mentioning the relationships in Gu Ning's unit; if she knew that her daughter didn't even have to maintain the relationships in her unit personally, and it was all handled by her son-in-law, she would be laughing and crying at the same time.

Just looking at her daughter whose temperament had changed so much, Ding Fengxia was still somewhat helpless, but could this be blamed on her son-in-law's favoritism?

Was this a daughter-in-law being married or a daughter being raised?

Even when she was unmarried, Ding Fengxia wouldn't dare say she could accommodate her daughter's temperament like this. She was her own mother; how could she not consider the difficulties her daughter would face in her mother-in-law's house after marriage?

She just didn't expect her daughter's life after marriage to be so comfortable, comfortable to the point of making people envy her ease and freedom.

The burning gaze of her eldest daughter-in-law, Mu Hongyan, could not be hidden, and Ding Fengxia saw it all. Looking at the gaze of her younger daughter-in-law-to-be, it was also full of envy for her sister-in-law's life.

How did that saying go? Do not worry about scarcity, but worry about inequality.

If the whole family lived together, even if Mu Hongyan and Zhou Yao lived with them in the future, nannies and treatment would naturally not be a problem. Even if they couldn't take advantage of the public, they could find someone to help take care of the children.

It was just that one was in Xijing, one was in Beijing, and she and Gu Haitao were in Jin Ling; it was truly too far.

When Mu Hongyan talked about work with Gu Ning, she heard her sister-in-law's meaning that she could still progress after the training class ended.

She knew her eldest daughter-in-law's situation; she had both age and experience, and she wasn't afraid of being made difficult, so her progress was step-by-step.

It was just that she lacked the opportunity for a training class like her sister-in-law's and had to endure for two more years. This was also the reason why Mu Hongyan secretly regretted leaving Beijing.

If she had really stayed in Beijing, this training class would certainly have had a place for her; at the very least, she was certain that her professional level was higher than Gu Ning's.

Time and fate.

Ding Fengxia privately found Mu Hongyan and discussed helping her hire a nanny, but was refused by Mu Hongyan.

The reason was none other than that the hardest times had passed, and the child was almost two years old and could be sent to kindergarten.

At this time, handing the child over to a nanny to raise was something she, as a mother, couldn't bear.

Therefore, envy was envy, but Mu Hongyan also knew her own situation and declined her mother-in-law's good intentions.

With Gu An's rank, and the influence of her father-in-law, he was already living with his tail between his legs, very afraid of what others might say. If they really started enjoying themselves, the two of them would sooner or later be drowned by spit.

It was ultimately different from Li Xuewu; listening to her father-in-law, her brother-in-law's development was faster than Gu An's.

When she was in Beijing, she saw that her brother-in-law had his own ideas, and for the past two years, she had heard Gu An say that the father-in-law and son-in-law were very compatible.

Gu An rarely talked about work with his father in his letters home, and would not have much research and discussion on the situation.

He only focused on his professional work, training, and management, rarely getting involved in those messy things. Although it seemed worry-free, he also lost many opportunities for development.

Hearing that Li Xuewu often had letters and phone calls with her father-in-law, and that they were all talking about important topics, Mu Hongyan was not only surprised but also somewhat unexpected. What was surprising was the attitude of her father-in-law, who was usually stern and very majestic, toward Li Xuewu.

What was unexpected was hearing Gu An say that her father-in-law took the initiative to step down by referring to Li Xuewu's suggestions and advice.

How much ability did this brother-in-law have to be praised by her mother-in-law, although rarely seen, but often mentioned? And to be trusted by her father-in-law to entrust the maintenance of Beijing relatives and old friends to him?

It was said that she asked her son-in-law to maintain relationships, but wasn't it actually to take care of her son-in-law? These relationships involved gifts during festivals, and when something happened, it was inevitable to reach out and say a word; wasn't that also relying on him?

Just last night, hearing Gu An say after returning that the protagonists of the conversation in the study upstairs were also her father-in-law and brother-in-law, Gu An and Gu Yan mostly listened, and he could interject a few more sentences than his younger brother.

Even Gu An praised his vision and sensitivity to the situation; how could Mu Hongyan not be both surprised and unexpected?

It was just that thinking of the scene that happened before marriage, when she went to the Red Star Factory to confront Li Xuewu, she still had her own thoughts.

Even if her sister-in-law spoke well last night, she still harbored the suspicion that Li Xuewu was fooling Gu Ning and fooling the whole family.

While accompanying her mother-in-law to the mall, Mu Hongyan found an opportunity to privately ask her sister-in-law about the truth.

But what surprised her was that Gu Ning knew nothing about these things and appeared indifferent.

"Aren't you afraid he has someone outside?" Mu Hongyan held her sister-in-law's arm and whispered a reminder: "Brother-in-law is not old, but he has many ideas."

"Even if there were, I couldn't stop him; if there isn't, it's just worrying for nothing." Gu Ning said lightly: "Except for business trips and the few days of duty in a month, he always comes home on time after work."

She looked at Zhou Yao walking beside her mother; that was Li Xuewu's former subordinate, what didn't she know?

It was just that she had another set of words for her sister-in-law, not because she disliked her sister-in-law for meddling, but because she didn't want to complicate simple things.

"This year is different from last year; his work is very hard." Gu Ning could see her sister-in-law's concern, but shook her head with a firm gaze and said: "Instead of wasting time on suspicion, it's better to give him trust. Furthermore, I don't have the heart to engage in intrigue."

"I really don't know what to say about you." Mu Hongyan also understood her sister-in-law's mentality, but just advised her: "After all, he is your own man; if you don't take the initiative to circle him, once he gets used to running wild, it's inevitable that he will kick over the traces, and you'll regret it if he runs away."

"Hmm, don't worry, sister-in-law." Gu Ning smiled lightly and said: "He can't run away."

"Hahaha—"

Li Shu was very happy; although the big box from home wasn't brought, she bought many, many toys today.

The eldest aunt and the younger aunt didn't buy as many as her grandmother, but added together, it was a lot.

Jin Ling was indeed different from Beijing; the toy counters in the department store were also different, with more regional characteristics.

There was no tourism economy in this era, and there would be no tourist-themed products like refrigerator magnets, but there was a prototype.

For example, there were rain flower stones here, which Beijing didn't have.

The Great Demon King led two little followers, and due to her grandmother's favoritism, she swept through all the toys she liked at the counter.

It was just that her mother was here today, so she didn't dare to be too presumptuous, otherwise, her butt would be slapped after returning home.

Even though her grandmother said she could buy whatever she wanted, she was sensible after all and only chose a few she liked.

Children are afraid of having differences when they gather together; whatever Li Shu liked, Li Ning and Gu Yunzhi wanted.

The result was three of each, and Ding Fengxia paid the bill with a smile.

It was just that such days were too short for Li Shu. On New Year's Day, her grandfather, uncle, and father came back in the afternoon to go to Xuanwu Lake Park with them for a turn.

There was no lack of beautiful scenery in winter; with the help of security and secretaries to take photos, the whole family found several snow scenes to take group photos as souvenirs.

Until dark, when the lights were lit, the whole family went to a pre-booked restaurant to enjoy Jin Ling's specialty cuisine.

Li Shu was truly too happy today; like her two younger brothers, her battery was exhausted early.

When they returned home, the two little ones were already asleep, and she was also swaying; it was her father who carried her to the bedroom to rest.

Li Xuewu settled his daughter down before returning to the living room. The whole family simply washed and tidied up and sat together again.

Yesterday they talked about their respective work and situations, but tonight they were going to talk about the big things in the family.

Seeing her spouse nod, Ding Fengxia considered that everyone had played very hard today, so she asked Zhou Yao straight to the point.

Zhou Yao also felt the abnormality of the atmosphere and vaguely discovered that everyone's gaze was on her.

Although she knew when she came that this trip to Jin Ling was to discuss their marriage, now that it was right in front of her, her face still had a few more shyness; after all, she was still a big girl.

"You are all young people of the era, not like us back then." Ding Fengxia saw her blushing and smiled to comfort her: "You can say whatever thoughts you have."

She signaled to the people sitting in the living room and said: "They are not outsiders; your eldest brother and sister-in-law, your sister and brother-in-law."

"Mom, we are not in a hurry."

Seeing Zhou Yao blushing from her mother's question, Gu Yan took the initiative to answer: "Let's wait a bit."

"Did I ask you?" Ding Fengxia glared at her son; although there was a bit of reproach in her tone, her face was still smiling, but the meaning of the blame was also very obvious.

She had sharp eyes; when Zhou Yao came to Jin Ling last time, she looked like a girl, but this time it was different.

Her eyebrows had already opened; it must be the bad thing her son did.

She also mentioned just now that both of them were cadres of the era who actively sought progress, and their understanding of love and career was ultimately more advanced and fashionable than their older generation.

But no matter how advanced or fashionable, it couldn't go too far. Since there was a substantial relationship, they had to consider marriage.

The Gu family's family style was rigorous; if it weren't for the fact that the younger son already had a marriage engagement, Gu Haitao would probably be angry.

At this time, it was not Gu Yan's turn to speak, and Ding Fengxia wanted to hear what Zhou Yao had to say.

If the girl wanted to get married early, then they, as parents, had no reason to refuse. Furthermore, they also wanted Gu Yan to get married early, so as not to be sloppy and make them worry.

In fact, Gu Yan had grown up very quickly in the past two years, and he no longer had the flightiness he had before, and he had matured a lot.

It was just that in his parents' eyes, he would always be a child; compared with his eldest brother and brother-in-law, he would always be the one who was not promising.

During his rebellious period, he was often compared by his father and mother with his eldest brother, and he was also intentionally doing so in his heart.

His eldest brother was older than him, and when his eldest brother was naughty, he didn't know anything; when he was naughty, his eldest brother was sensible. How could this be compared? He was born to suffer the loss of age.

Li Xuewu had also suffered this kind of loss and understood his younger brother-in-law's psychology very well, so he mostly cared for and loved him. Otherwise, how could Gu Yan trust his brother-in-law with introducing a partner?

Tonight was not like usual; his parents' serious attitude and the expectation and support in his brother-in-law's eyes made Gu Yan obediently shut his mouth, look at Zhou Yao, and wait for her to speak.

Zhou Yao was watched by everyone; although her face was redder, she tried hard to calm her mood; after all, it was her own life event.

After she sorted out her emotions, she raised her head slightly to look at Li Xuewu, and then said to her future mother-in-law, "I have no opinion; listen to Gu Yan."

"Listen to him for what? He only knows how to mess around."

Ding Fengxia was not very satisfied with this answer and held Zhou Yao's hand and said: "Did your parents say when the wedding date is?"

"Hmm—" Zhou Yao nodded her lowered head and said softly: "They want me to look at the time after the New Year."

"Early is better; after all, the age is enough."

Ding Fengxia looked at Gu Haitao, seemingly with the meaning of discussion, but her mouth continued to say to Zhou Yao: "You don't have to care about Gu Yan's thoughts; just say what is convenient for you."

"Whether it is before the New Year or after the New Year, we must give us a definite date so that we have time to prepare."

She gently patted Zhou Yao's hand and said: "You only have one life; you must prepare carefully."

"It is better early than late."

Li Xuewu saw that Zhou Yao was still considering, and seeing his mother-in-law look at him, he took the initiative to say: "You and Gu Yan are both cadres, so you must consider the organization's requirements."

"Your brother-in-law's words are reasonable." Ding Fengxia comforted softly: "Even if you consider after the New Year, you must try to move it forward."

"Mom, how can you let her say it."

Mu Hongyan smiled and sat on the armrest of the sofa beside her mother-in-law, resting her elbows on the backrest, and advised her mother-in-law: "She wants to say early, but it's embarrassing."

"What's so embarrassing about this."

Ding Fengxia saw that Zhou Yao's ears were red, and she didn't refute her eldest daughter-in-law's opinion, so she knew her meaning.

"This marriage event is both a harmony of the piano and the zither, and a repair of the goodness of the two families. I have to ask your opinion, and then ask your parents' opinion; the family doesn't have to be so embarrassed."

"If it's after the New Year, the end of February is too rushed." Li Xuewu pinched his fingers to calculate the date and suggested: "How about March? There is no problem with the time."

"March, hmm, not busy." Gu An calculated in his heart, but also smiled and nodded in agreement: "We return to Beijing to reunite; it's been several years, and it's lively."

"March is good, early spring season, it is the time when all things recover and the grass grows and the warblers fly." Ding Fengxia smiled and pulled Zhou Yao's hand and asked: "If you have no opinion, we will choose a date from March."

"Hmm—" Zhou Yao's response couldn't be said to be the sound of a mosquito, but it wasn't that loud. If Li Kui roared like that "I am willing," it would probably scare Ding Fengxia to death.

"Then let's temporarily decide this way."

Ding Fengxia was very satisfied with the time chosen by her son-in-law; she was really afraid that this bad boy Gu Yan would cause a human life. At that time, the daughter-in-law entering the door with a big belly would not be a joke for relatives.

This era is different from later generations; entering the door with a big belly will be laughed at, not only by the husband's family, but also by the daughter-in-law.

Whose good girl would sleep with a man in advance? Marriage is a good thing; what if the marriage didn't happen?

Gu Yan was actually very confused, not because of the scumbag attribute, but because he was young and had no opinion on this kind of thing.

He didn't oppose marriage, but he had no concept of marriage; otherwise, why did the old saying say to establish a family and establish a career?

First establish a family, then establish a career; when a man has a family, he has responsibility, and he does things more steadily and maturely.

It was just that the family had already decided on his marriage, and he always felt uncomfortable.

"Mom, you haven't asked my opinion yet."

Just after asking this, before everyone had time to look at him, Gu Yan found his father's gaze staring over.

Well, he felt uncomfortable just now and always felt something was missing; now that he was glared at by his father, he felt comfortable.

Li Xuewu spent the New Year at his father-in-law's house, went to the Jiangnan branch to hold a meeting the next day, and entertained local comrades in the evening.

On the third day, which was January 3rd, he finished his work in Jin Ling and was about to set off back to Beijing.

Gu Yan and Zhou Yao both took leave according to his time, so naturally, they had to follow him back to Beijing.

Gu An's vacation was even tighter, and he had to leave time for his younger brother's wedding in March, so the couple also decided to return to Xijing today.

Having just been lively for two days, Ding Fengxia was full of reluctance, first sending away the eldest son's family, and then sending away the daughter's family and the younger son's family.

Gu Haitao was impatient with the love of children and more like he was reluctant to part, so he didn't come to the airport to see them off.

He just gave a few instructions when he went out, but Li Xuewu took the initiative to comfort his father-in-law, saying that they would meet again in Beijing in March.

Ding Fengxia handed over half of the younger son's marriage to her son-in-law, and the other half was responsible for her to arrange.

Now Li Xuewu and the others returned to Beijing first, and Ding Fengxia would return to Beijing to prepare for Gu Yan's wedding after settling Jin Ling.

For Gu Yan's wedding, the couple had to have a small home; the property in Beijing was Gu Haitao's official housing, and it was not known how it would be allocated in the future, so it was impossible for the couple to live there.

Since it was neither fixed property nor private property, they had to consider Zhou Yao's work situation, so they planned to buy commercial housing in the Workers' New Village, which would be considered private property protection.

The reason for accommodating Zhou Yao was not because they were rushing to marry a daughter-in-law, but because of Gu Yan's work. He was a soldier; he was here for a few years, and he might have to change places in a few years.

Their family was originally a sitting household in Beijing, and it was Gu Haitao and her who ran out to participate in the revolution when they were young.

Relatives and old friends were all still in Beijing, and Gu Yan's future should also be in Beijing, so accommodating Zhou Yao was very normal.

Buying a house for the couple, Ding Fengxia didn't want to lose one thing and gain another, so she asked about the eldest son's thoughts.

The property that could be bought in Beijing was very scarce, and the Red Star Steel Group's self-raised and self-built belonged to special circumstances, which was very rare.

Ding Fengxia's meaning was, since the younger son wanted to buy, why not buy the eldest son's together.

Even if they didn't live there for the time being, they might have to return to Beijing in the future, and it might not be so suitable to buy it then.

Gu An's situation was similar to his younger brother Gu Yan, and he was also a home everywhere, rooted in the barracks. But now he was not alone, and his wife and children would always have to be arranged in the future, so he didn't refuse.

It was heard that the Workers' New Village was not far from the city, and schooling and medical care were very convenient, and there were commerce and large parks.

In fact, in Li Xuewu's view, Gu Yan and his wife needed to buy a house in the Workers' New Village, but Gu An and his wife didn't have to.

His father-in-law would return to Beijing sooner or later; it was hard to say what the situation of the original property was, but he would eventually live with his eldest son. At that time, the house in the Workers' New Village would still be empty.

However, his mother-in-law's heart for her son, he couldn't say anything, just thinking about persuading her after his mother-in-law returned to Beijing.

Buying a house at this time was not cheap, at least relatively speaking; the house in the Workers' New Village could be considered a high price.

You see, a house of more than 100 square meters could be bought for a few thousand yuan, but think about the wage level at this time.

His father-in-law and mother-in-law were not greedy people, and the family had no special income, all relying on that bit of wages and treatment.

Speaking of which, their wages were not low, but they hadn't saved much money. If they really wanted to buy two houses, they would probably empty their old bottom.

Li Xuewu thought so, and mentioned it to his mother-in-law when he got on the plane.

Ding Fengxia naturally wouldn't blame her son-in-law for meddling, and her son-in-law didn't say anything, just thinking about waiting for her to return to Beijing to see the situation before deciding.

Because Li Xuewu was in Beijing for the wedding, she had plenty of time to settle Jin Ling.

Just thinking that her son-in-law might go to Steel City before the New Year, she was worried that the relationships in Beijing would not be convenient.

Her son-in-law also said that he would set the rules and ask friends and childhood friends to help prepare. But after all, it was not family.

"Grandmother, I am so reluctant to part with you."

Ding Fengxia couldn't think of anything else; Li Shu had already hugged her neck and acted like a spoiled child. Having raised a daughter once, Gu Ning had never been so intimate with her since she could remember.

Ding Fengxia had never enjoyed the intimacy of her own daughter, but she found it back on her granddaughter.

She hugged Li Shu and Li Ning and kissed this one and then kissed that one, and couldn't bear to part with either.

"Grandmother is also reluctant to part with you."

Ding Fengxia had tears in her eyes and coaxed the two children: "Wait for Grandmother to return to Beijing to see you after the New Year."

Handing the two children to Er Ya and Gu Ning, she looked at her son-in-law and instructed: "You don't have to worry too much; it's their business after all, let the couple be busy."

"Don't worry, I'm here."

Li Xuewu knew that his mother-in-law couldn't bear to use him, but he was the brother-in-law, how could he not do his best.

"I'll handle the house, including decoration and furniture; wait for you to come and take a look, and I'll check for omissions."

"At this time, don't stand back." Ding Fengxia heard her son-in-law speak openly, so she grabbed Zhou Yao's hand and smiled and instructed: "But you like it, your brother-in-law is busy with work, and he is also sensible, after all, it is your own business."

"Hmm, we know—"

Zhou Yao nodded, looked at Gu Yan, and only had joy in her eyes; the purpose of this trip was all achieved.

Gu Yan smiled and stood beside his brother-in-law, very self-conscious as a brother-in-law, and really didn't treat his brother-in-law as an outsider.

"Then that's it, call if you have anything."

Ding Fengxia endured the pain of parting and instructed Gu Ning a few words, nothing more than taking good care of the children and living and working well.

When Gu Ning was at home, she said she didn't miss her parents and rarely put her thoughts on her lips, but she was also happy to come to Jin Ling. At the moment of parting, there was more reliance in her gaze toward her mother.

Who says the heart of an inch of grass can repay the three springs of sunshine.

Her mother instructed everyone and took care of everyone, but she forgot herself.

Although Li Shu and Li Ning only stayed with their grandfather and grandmother for three days, they were also full of reluctance at this moment.

They were already crying when they got on the ladder, and Ding Fengxia under the ladder was also shedding tears.

Er Ya and Gu Ning coaxed the two onto the plane, and Li Xuewu took his brother-in-law and the two onto the ladder after saying goodbye to his mother-in-law.

The plane took off at the scheduled time, carrying Ding Fengxia's thoughts to Beijing.

"You came back after staying for only a few days?" Bu Qingfang passed by Li Xuewu's office and habitually took a look. Seeing him working behind the desk, she knocked on the door and walked in, asking: "Didn't you say you were going to visit relatives?"

"It's not good to waste public affairs for private reasons." Li Xuewu raised his head and saw it was her, and said with a smile: "The work is finished, the relatives have been visited, so I came back."

"You are truly too dedicated—" Bu Qingfang walked to the front of the desk, rested her hands on the desktop, and said meaningfully: "But not everyone hopes you are so dedicated."

"Who? You?" Li Xuewu could hear the subtext in her words and joked intentionally: "If I delayed a few more days in Jin Ling, would you be very happy?"

"My happiness has nothing to do with this." Bu Qingfang laughed: "I don't lack the exercise opportunities you give."

She raised her eyebrows and said: "Besides, how many days can you stay in Jin Ling? I'm afraid I'll have to run to Steel City countless times in the future to report work to you."

"Hmm, yes—" Li Xuewu ignored the teasing in her words and sighed: "Even if I'm an eyesore to others, how many days can it be? So let them endure it."

"Hahaha—" Bu Qingfang had a straightforward personality and laughed when she heard him say this.

"But someone can't stand you being comfortable."

Bu Qingfang reported softly: "Director Li gave instructions yesterday, asking you to arrange an interview with the President of the Santa Ya Group."

"Heh—" Li Xuewu gave a light chuckle and looked at Bu Qingfang and asked: "Why not ask Deputy Director Gu?"

"Even if Deputy Director Gu can't spare the time, Deputy Director Gao is fine too; what's the matter with me going?"

"Isn't that what I'm saying—" Bu Qingfang shook her head and said meaningfully: "Who told you not to be at home? They have already decided; you should prepare as soon as possible."

"Interviewing Chantel—"

Li Xuewu thought for a while, looked at Bu Qingfang and said: "Then prepare; if I am idle, they will panic."

(End of Chapter)