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Xia Zhe was going to return to the tent when he heard Zheng Yuan saying that she wanted him to have a taste of losing Qiao Mei. He stopped in his tracks.
Losing? Losing who? Was she referring to Qiao Mei?
Xia Zhe's mind was buzzing with what Zheng Yuan said. Tonight, he had almost lost the person he loved deeply as well as their beloved baby. These were the things that Xia Zhe was most unwilling to have to face.
Xia Zhe suddenly turned around and rushed to Zheng Yuan. His rationality prevented him from doing anything to Zheng Yuan but he clenched his fists and looked at Zheng Yuan coldly.
I hope there won't be a next time. Zheng Yuan. If anything happens to Qiao Mei, you will die too. Your entire family will be buried together with my wife. You'd better think carefully.
After saying that, Xia Zhe turned around and left. As he walked off, he said,
Zhuang Hua, take her away. I'll contact the superiors tomorrow.
Zhuang Hua had no choice but to obey the order. After all, apart from being his good friend, Xia Zhe was also his superior. Soldiers must obey military orders. Furthermore, Zheng Yuan really needed to go back and have a good rest.
Let's go, Yuan Yuan. Let's go back.
Zhuang Hua squatted down and looked at the dejected Zheng Yuan.
After Xia Zhe left, Zheng Yuan regretted what she had said and tears streamed down her face uncontrollably. Zheng Yuan looked at Zhuang Hua helplessly and pointed at the tent in front of her with a trembling finger.
Zhuang Hua, does that mean he will never look at me again?
Zheng Yuan's eyes were filled with anticipation, as if she would immediately believe Zhuang Hua if he said that Xia Zhe would not mind what happened tonight.
Zhuang Hua could not bear to hurt her, but he could not say anything that was against his conscience. Zhuang Hua just fixed his eyes on Zheng Yuan quietly for a while and did not say anything else.
Zhuang Hua! Say something! Tell me if he will still look at me and we can still be the same as before! Zhuang Hua! Tell me! Zhuang Hua!!!
Zheng Yuan grabbed Zhuang Hua's shoulder tightly, hoping to see the answer she wanted in his eyes, but it was clearly just a false hope.
After Zheng Yuan got her answer, she loosened her grip in a helpless manner and dropped back down on the ground. Tears flowed down her good-looking face and she wept silently. She was already starting to regret it. She just wanted Xia Zhe not to fall in love with anyone else. Even if Xia Zhe would never marry in his life, she was willing to wait for him.
However, fate had played a trick on her. Now, Xia Zhe would no longer look at her. He treated her like an enemy and even wanted to punish her. This was not what she had intended to achieve.
Yuan Yuan, get up. Let's go. The ground is cold, let's go back.
Zhuang Hua reached out to help Zheng Yuan up.
Zheng Yuan shook off Zhuang Hua's hand and looked at him coldly. She could no longer feel her legs after sitting on the ground for a long time and the cold had seeped to her bones. She managed to stand up on her own with difficulty and then looked at the people around her.
Zheng Yuan slowly extended her hands and patted the dust off her body. She straightened her back and raised her head before saying to Zhuang Hua,
You should report what happened today truthfully. Tomorrow, I'll send a report to the superiors myself. There's no need for Commander Xia to do it. Please pass the message to him on my behalf.
After saying that, she limped towards her tent with some difficulty. The soldiers in the vicinity did not know what to think of the current Deputy Commander Zheng. Was she pitiful? She was not. She deserved to be punished for her wrongdoings.
Everyone seemed to feel a sense of pity for her. Her career path was progressing smoothly, but she was blinded by love and did something wrong. In the end, she would be punished accordingly. Perhaps she would never have a military career again, or perhaps she would be demoted and transferred back to her original unit. What happened after this would depend on how the superiors dealt with it.
Zhuang Hua frowned as he watched Zheng Yuan leave. Zheng Yuan was still as arrogant as before and still chose to protect her dignity in the end. No one could tell what kind of punishment was awaiting her.
Alright, stop looking! Don't you have to do rescue work tomorrow! Go back, all of you!
Zhuang Hua shouted sternly.
The soldiers in the vicinity quickly rushed to return to their respective teams and did not dare to bother about this matter anymore. Qiao Mei could hear everything from inside the tent and she understood the cause of the whole incident. When she saw Xia Zhe entering, she did not say anything and just looked at him quietly.
Xia Zhe's heart went out to Qiao Mei when he saw her sitting dutifully on the bed in the tent. He felt that he had not protected Qiao Mei and their child well.
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Qiao Mei looked at Xia Zhe quietly and smiled as she gestured for him to go over to her side. Xia Zhe was in low spirits and he hung his head as he stood by the bed and looked at Qiao Mei.
Come and sit down, why are you standing when you're already off duty and not training your soldiers.
Qiao Mei smiled playfully and patted the edge of the bed, asking Xia Zhe to sit down.
Xia Zhe nodded and sat down gently next to Qiao Mei. He looked at her thoroughly and reached out to touch her face. His tightly furrowed brows showed no signs of relaxing.
Qiao Mei put her finger at the middle of Xia Zhe's forehead and said,
Why are you so nervous? It's not like I'm dead.
When Xia Zhe heard this, he quickly glared at Qiao Mei and said,
Pfft, touch wood! What nonsense are you saying!
Pfft, touch wood. I won't say it anymore. Look at how nervous you are,
Qiao Mei said as she giggled.
Xia Zhe could not even smile at all. His mind was still filled with scenes of what happened to Qiao Mei just now. The situation was so dangerous and terrifying and he had almost lost her.
Xia Zhe lowered his head and remained silent. He held Qiao Mei's hand tightly and stroked it repeatedly, not knowing what to say.
He felt that as a man, he had not protected his wife and child well. Moreover, it had happened in the army camp, surrounded by his soldiers and without any enemies around. What if something like that happened on the battlefield or elsewhere!
If something like this could happen even with him around, what if an accident happened to her when she was not with him? Xia Zhe had mixed feelings and did not know what to say.
Qiao Mei could tell what he was thinking and gave Xia Zhe a kick as she said,
Hey! Commander Xia! What are you worried about! I'm right in front of you. What are you still worried about?
He was more than happy to see Qiao Mei doing something so improper. Qiao Mei was still the same Qiao Mei. She was not scared by the whole incident and was still so childlike and cheerfully forthright.
At the thought of this, Xia Zhe curled his lips and slowly articulated his thoughts.
I just feel that I'm useless for letting you go through such a thing in the army camp. How can I face you and your grandfather? If your grandfather finds out, he will regret letting you marry me.
Qiao Mei became unhappy immediately after she heard this. She pointed at Xia Zhe and roared,
Xia Zhe! Now you regret marrying me!
Xia Zhe looked at the furious girl in front of him in confusion.
When did I say that I regret marrying you?
You did say it! Asshole! You don't want me anymore! Only you would know whether you regret it! You want to run off after getting me pregnant! You have no conscience!
Qiao Mei swung her little fist and gently punched Xia Zhe's shoulder.
At first, Xia Zhe was so nervous that he did not know what to do. He carefully observed Qiao Mei's expression and realized that she did not seem angry at all. She puffed up her cheeks as she rattled off and looked like a little bun. It was obvious that she was just throwing a little tantrum and was not really angry.
Xia Zhe pulled Qiao Mei into his arms and rested his head on the top of Qiao Mei's head. He slowly stroked Qiao Mei's back and said dotingly,
Have you messed around enough, my little ancestor?
Seeing that her plan had been exposed, Qiao Mei no longer had any intention of fooling around with him. She lay quietly in Xia Zhe's arms and wrapped her arms around his waist.
Hmph, who's messing with you.
Qiao Mei muttered.
Xia Zhe stroked Qiao Mei's head and said,
I don't regret marrying you. I think the best decision I ever made was to marry you. I originally wanted you to become a military spouse, but now that something like this has happened to you right under my nose, I just feel that I'm very useless to be unable to protect you.
Qiao Mei broke free from Xia Zhe, crossed her legs and sat upright on the bed. She looked at Xia Zhe solemnly and said,
You're the most useful person. My husband is the most amazing person! The baby and I both think that you're the best and you did protect the baby and me. Why do you say that you're useless?
Xia Zhe looked at Qiao Mei's serious expression when she said that he was amazing and his ears turned red. He said awkwardly,
It's not like what you said. I could have prevented this from happening.
203
No one can say for sure that something won't happen. Besides, didn't you protect me well? Otherwise, how am I always safe and sound?
Qiao Mei said as she looked at Xia Zhe.
I just want you and the baby to have a more stable life and to suffer less. You even secretly came to look for me. If Grandpa finds out, I think he will definitely break my legs.
Xia Zhe had goosebumps as he imagined Qiao Qiang picking up a rod.
Qiao Mei looked at Xia Zhe and smiled. She said teasingly,
I was the one who took advantage of you back then. It's too late for you to regret it now!
Xia Zhe thought of that night again. Qiao Mei looked so beautiful and charming now, and her delicate voice reminded him of how they were entangled together that night. Xia Zhe's ears turned even redder, but Qiao Mei was unable to do anything strenuous now, so he could only wait it out.
As she looked at Xia Zhe, who currently resembled the color of cooked shrimp, Qiao Mei lay on the bed and laughed heartily. Xia Zhe reached out in exasperation and gently scratched Qiao Mei's ticklish spots. Qiao Mei laughed until her tears flowed out.
Hahahahahahahahahahaha!
Who asked you to mess around?
The laughter in the tent stopped after a while. Xia Zhe did not dare to play around with Qiao Mei too vigorously. Although back at the camp, he had written a letter to his aunt to ask her about the things to take note of during pregnancy, he remained worried as Qiao Mei had not gone through a proper check-up.
Do you feel any discomfort in your belly?
Xia Zhe asked as he looked at Qiao Mei's stomach.
Qiao Mei thought about it seriously. There did not seem to be any pain or soreness. Other pregnant women would be experiencing sore backs and constant morning sickness at this stage of the pregnancy, but she did not feel any pain at all. Even on such a hot summer day, she did not feel any discomfort. She ate well, everything tasted nice to her and she did not have any symptoms like morning sickness.
Qiao Mei shook her head.
Xia Zhe was still worried, but there was no hospital in the vicinity where she could go to do a checkup now. He could only wait until they returned to the capital for his aunt to take a look at her.
What's your relationship with that female soldier just now?
Qiao Mei looked at Xia Zhe curiously.
Qiao Mei knew Xia Zhe's stand on the issue, but she was really curious as to why Zheng Yuan would have such strong feelings for Xia Zhe. She asked him the question solely out of curiosity.
Xia Zhe broke out in cold sweat when he heard that. He thought that Qiao Mei was going to pursue the issue and immediately stood up to look at her as he said,
There's really nothing between us.
Qiao Mei laughed out loudly when she saw Xia Zhe standing at attention as if he was going to do a verbal report to his superior. She tugged at the corner of Xia Zhe's shirt and asked him to sit down.
What're you doing, I'm just curious about how you two met,
Qiao Mei said as she looked into Xia Zhe's eyes.
After confirming that Qiao Mei really did not mind, Xia Zhe began to talk about how Zheng Yuan and he got to know each other.
Her name is Zheng Yuan and she's the deputy battalion commander. We grew up in the same military compound when we were young. Zhuang Hua and Zhang Yong as well. We all played together when we were young,
Xia Zhe said.
Eh? What about Zhao Wu?
Qiao Mei stared at Xia Zhe curiously.
Xia Zhe frowned again. He did not like to hear Qiao Mei mention the names of other men. He quietly suppressed the jealousy in his heart and said,
We got to know Zhao Wu after he joined the army. He did not grow up with us.
Qiao Mei nodded in acknowledgment.
At that time, I got along really well with Zhuang Hua. Zhang Yong was more introverted. At that time, he particularly liked to read and almost went into scientific research, but his father did not agree with that choice and so he joined the army. Zheng Yuan and Zhuang Hua had a good relationship and we were all quite close with one another.
Xia Zhe only gave a simple introduction and did not say anything else.
Qiao Mei sat up anxiously and asked Xia Zhe,
And then? Get to the point!
Xia Zhe shook his head resignedly. He did not manage to throw her off the scent, so there was nothing he could do except tell her everything.
Zheng Yuan was one of the few girls in the military compound. At that time, there were many boys in the compound, so girls were especially pampered. Everyone doted on her, so she felt that everything belonged to her. However, she also worked hard and she reached her current position on her own merit,
Xia Zhe said impartially.
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Qiao Mei kept quiet and looked on expressionlessly.
Later on, it so happened that her father became my mentor. Her father watched me grow up as well and he was quite close with my father, so he spoke to my father about an engagement…
Xia Zhe's voice became softer and softer as he spoke.
Qiao Mei pricked up her ears when she heard the key word—engagement.
The two of you were engaged? Then aren't I…
Qiao Mei thought that she was the one who had messed up Xia Zhe's marriage plans and was caught off guard for a moment.
Xia Zhe reached out helplessly and flicked her head as he said,
What's in that little head of yours, I'm not finished yet.
Qiao Mei rubbed her head without saying anything.
No, we were not engaged because my grandfather and your grandfather have already agreed to an arranged marriage between their grandchildren, you and I. There can't be another engagement. My father wanted to agree to her father, but my grandfather rejected it, and that was the end of it,
Xia Zhe said earnestly.
Qiao Mei indeed remembered from the memories of the original owner of the body that her grandfather had mentioned an arranged marriage when she was young, but she had always thought that it was not real. Back then, she thought that it was a lie to prevent Qiao Zhuang's family from marrying her off to a fool in the neighboring village.
What happened after that?
Qiao Mei asked.
After that, I got busy with training and had no contact with her at all. Later on, when I got promoted, I met her again by chance at work. There was nothing else,
Xia Zhe told her everything that he could think of.
His answer satisfied Qiao Mei's curiosity and she now understood why Zheng Yuan was so obsessed with Xia Zhe. It turned out that they were almost engaged to each other. There was nothing she could do about this thing called fate.
However, Qiao Mei did not know that Zheng Yuan was not Xia Zhe's only admirer. A bigger surprise was waiting for her in the capital.
Then are you really going to file a complaint?
Qiao Mei looked at Xia Zhe with uncertainty.
Complaint? What complaint? I will be submitting a report,
Xia Zhe said helplessly to Qiao Mei.
In our village, it's called filing a complaint. She didn't really hurt my child. If you're really angry about it, you can talk to her parents in private. If you report it to the higher-ups, will she get a beating?
Qiao Mei asked Xia Zhe worriedly.
It was not that Qiao Mei was magnanimous and did not take what happened to heart, but after hearing what Zhuang Hua said earlier, Qiao Mei felt that it would be more appropriate to handle this matter in private. The few of them all knew one another and it would not be good to make things too awkward between them.
Let things run its course. I will just report the truth without anything else. Don't think about this matter anymore. It's already so late. Hurry up and go to bed.
Xia Zhe got up and prepared to go to the table to work on the report through the night.
Qiao Mei hurriedly grabbed Xia Zhe's sleeve and asked,
It's the middle of the night and you ask me to go to bed when you're not? Where are you going!
I have to write the report. I have to send it out tomorrow,
Xia Zhe said.
No! You have to come to bed with me! Ouch…
Qiao Mei pretended to hold her stomach and moan.
Xia Zhe hurriedly looked at Qiao Mei and asked,
Mei Mei, what's wrong! Do you have a stomachache! Are you alright!
Yes… I just… my chest feels so stuffy… Can you accompany me…
Qiao Mei lay on the bed and pouted.
Xia Zhe looked at Qiao Mei, who was lying on the bed and holding her stomach but saying that her chest felt stuffy. He did not know if he should point out her ill logic or to just let her be. He shook his head resignedly.
You, you. Go to sleep. I'll come to bed as well. I'll think about the report tomorrow,
Xia Zhe looked at Qiao Mei and said.
Yep! Then come quickly!
Qiao Mei said happily and lay on her side.
The tent cot was so small that it could fit two people only if both of them lay on their sides. After Xia Zhe packed his clothes, he lay down behind Qiao Mei and gently hugged her from behind.
Don't worry, I'll protect you well,
Xia Zhe said softly.
Yes, I know. Go to sleep.
Qiao Mei nodded happily and soon fell asleep.
Xia Zhe gently stroked Qiao Mei's arm on the bed and gradually fell asleep as he listened to her breathing.
In another tent, Zheng Yuan limped to the bed and checked on her leg injuries. She found many bruises, but they were all minor injuries. In the past, she had sustained a leg injury during training and was left with a lingering effect from it. Given that she had sat on the ground for so long earlier, her leg would probably hurt for the next few days.
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Zheng Yuan briefly checked for any other wounds on her body and then sat there quietly, looking in the direction of the tent door. She still maintained hope that Xia Zhe would come looking for her.
Not long after, there were footsteps outside the door and someone knocked lightly on Zheng Yuan's door.
Who is it?
Zheng Yuan asked happily, her eyes filled with anticipation. She hoped that the person who answered her was the person she wanted to see.
Yuan Yuan, it's me, Zhuang Hua, I brought you some food and also medicine for your bruises. I
ll leave them at the door. Remember to apply the medicine and rest early if there's nothing else. I'm going off now.
After Zhuang Hua finished speaking, he gently placed the things at the entrance of the tent and left. As he walked away, he looked back a few times worriedly.
Zheng Yuan lowered her head in disappointment and did not say anything. She made her way slowly to the door and opened it to see some red fruits and a bottle of potion on the ground.
Zhuang Hua saw these fruits when he went out for the rescue mission earlier and specially plucked them for Zheng Yuan. Looking at the red fruits and then at Zhuang Hua's departing figure in the distance, Zheng Yuan understood the mistake she had made and tears flowed down her face again.
After picking up the things and re-entering the tent, Zheng Yuan sat at the table and wrote a report through the night. In the report to her superiors, she listed down everything that had happened today and also provided details on the handover of her work. She had decided to ask for a transfer and leave the troops to go somewhere else.
She had worked out her issues and completely let go of this matter. She wanted to be herself again and not that Zheng Yuan who liked Xia Zhe so much that she lost her mind.
After packing her things, she asked someone to send the report out at dawn. Meanwhile, Zheng Yuan handed over her remaining work to her subordinates. It did not take long for Zhuang Hua to hear about this.
Zhuang Hua found Zheng Yuan and said,
Have you considered carefully about the transfer?
Yes, I think I should leave this place,
Zheng Yuan said to Zhuang Hua as she looked at the sky.
Zhuang Hua did not speak. He had been silently protecting Zheng Yuan all along. Basically, Zhuang Hua would appear wherever Zheng Yuan went. It had been like this for so many years.
I'm determined to do this. Don't try to dissuade me. You stay here and don't follow me.
Zheng Yuan looked at Zhuang Hua tenderly.
Zhuang Hua was a little surprised at first, then he gave a relaxed smile.
So you know,
Zhuang Hua said happily.
The thoughts that he had kept hidden for so many years could finally be out in the open.
Zheng Yuan nodded and said,
I figured it out last night. I've been chasing after Xia Zhe for so many years and trying my best to keep up with him. I thought I loved him, but all I did was to lose myself.
Zheng Yuan stood in front of Zhuang Hua and said solemnly,
I even let down the people who cherish me, so I want to transfer out of here and go somewhere else to look for the old me.
Zhuang Hua was relieved to see Zheng Yuan with her current mindset. The confident and haughty Zheng Yuan he had always liked had returned.
Remember to come back and visit us during the holidays. We'll eat together in our big courtyard then,
Zhuang Hua said.
Alright, it's a deal.
Zheng Yuan smiled happily and continued,
I've already sent a report to the superiors this morning. I also wrote a letter to my father. He already knows the stupid things I've done so I'll probably be transferred out soon. Just keep this matter to yourself.
Zhuang Hua nodded. He still could not accept the news of Zheng Yuan's transfer because he did not know when they would be able to meet again. However, he also wanted to support Zheng Yuan in her search for her old self.
Your father will punish you, won't he?
Zhuang Hua asked worriedly.
Zheng Yuan's father was famous for being strict when they were growing up in the military compound. At that time, all the children were afraid of him, even Xia Zhe. This time round, Zheng Yuan would definitely be severely punished.
Who cares? This is how it should be if I have done something wrong. I've already thought it through. There's no benefit in hiding it from him. I'm his biological daughter, what can he do to me?
Zheng Yuan said with a chuckle.
Zhuang Hua also laughed. He still had vivid memories of the things that happened when they were young, but they have all grown up in the blink of an eye.
Then take care of yourself and I'll bring you out for dimsum when you come back.
Zhuang Hua looked at Zheng Yuan tenderly.
Alright, it's a deal,
Zheng Yuan said with a smile.
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Out of habit from being in the army all year round, Xia Zhe woke up at dawn. For a moment, he was not used to having someone sleeping next to him, even if she had fair skin and a pretty face that looked like a cute little bun. Her small mouth opened and closed slightly with every breath, and her long eyelashes would occasionally flutter.
Xia Zhe tightened his hug on Qiao Mei and rested his chin on her head, enjoying the beautiful morning.
After a while, Qiao Mei muttered something in her sleep and slowly stretched out while flipping over. Xia Zhe did not even dare to breathe loudly, afraid that he would wake the person who looked to be dreaming.
He quietly put on his clothes and prepared to go out to make arrangements for the day's mission. Before he left, he took another look at Qiao Mei who was still in bed, unable to hide the smile on his face.
Xia Zhe thought to himself,
What a wonderful life.
He gently pushed open the tent door to go and look for Zhuang Hua, but did not expect to find Zhuang Hua chatting with Zheng Yuan. He did not go forward to disturb them and just waited quietly in the distance.
Zhao Wu tiptoed from behind and prepared to launch a sneak attack on Xia Zhe. Just as he was about to reach out, Xia Zhe grabbed him and threw him to the ground with a smooth shoulder throw.
Ouch! What the hell! Xia Zhe, you're playing rough for real!
Zhao Wu lay on the ground and gritted his teeth.
Zhang Yong, who was following behind, saw Zhao Wu lying on the ground and guessed that it was Xia Zhe who did it. He could not help but laugh loudly.
Hahahahahaha, you deserve it!
Zhang Yong said.
Xia Zhe looked at these two uncontrollable jokers and shook his head helplessly.
Can you still get up? Why didn't you move after falling down? You're behaving like a scammer,
Xia Zhe said as he pointed at Zhao Wu.
Ouch! Ow, ouch! I can't make it! I'm going to die! Xia Zhe hit me!
Zhao Wu became more and more animated as he spoke. He lay on the ground and groaned loudly, looking like he was really in pain.
Oh my, look at that. Don't tell me your bones are broken? Then we must get you treated quickly. Should I get Sister Cheng from the medical team to take a look at you?
Zhuang Hua bade Zheng Yuan farewell and ran over to look at Zhao Wu teasingly when he heard Zhao Wu's voice.
Tsk, I'm fine!
Zhao Wu got up from the ground embarrassingly with a red face.
Sister Cheng?
What Sister Cheng?
Xia Zhe looked at Zhang Yong in confusion, thinking that Zhang Yong knew what was going on.
However, Zhang Yong was so surprised that he could not close his mouth. He flapped his hands and said,
What? I really don't know!
Zhao Wu lowered his head and did not dare to say anything else, afraid that he would trip on his words if he spoke further. These buddies of his were smart people and would probably make him confess in two or three sentences. He was determined not to say anything.
Zhuang Hua laughed and said,
It's Sister Cheng Fang from the medical team. She's probably around three years older than us. She's kind and beautiful… Hey, hey, hey, don't stop me from talking!
Before Zhuang Hua could finish speaking, Zhao Wu anxiously reached out and covered his mouth.
When Xia Zhe heard the name Cheng Fang, he thought that he seemed to have an impression of her. There were not many female soldiers to begin with, and most of them were from the logistics department. Most of them reported to Zheng Yuan.
Cheng Fang was not really that old, but she would be considered an old maid in the countryside. Qiao Mei was already married at her age but there were still some people who said that she got married late. Therefore, Cheng Fang would be considered to be past marriageable age.
The Cheng family was actually a family of doctors who had been practicing for generations. Cheng Fang's grandfather, father and mother all worked in the main hospital in the capital and they were all very outstanding doctors. The family also seemed to be related to one of Xia Zhe's aunts, who was also colleagues with them in the same hospital.
Three years older? That's just right. As the saying goes, a wife who's three years older than the husband ensures a richer life! Hahahahahaha!
Zhang Yong clapped his hands and cheered.
Don't talk nonsense! There's nothing going on between us!
Zhao Wu hurriedly stopped Zhang Yong from talking.
Xia Zhe understood what was going on. It appeared that Zhao Wu had taken a fancy to the girl, but the feeling was not reciprocated.
What exactly is wrong with you?
Xia Zhe finally asked.
Well… it's just that… she and I…
Zhao Wu kept stammering as his ears turned red and he scratched his head in embarrassment.
Stop wasting time and tell me quickly,
Xia Zhe said.
It's just that some time ago, my arm got scratched during a rescue mission. It was just a flesh wound, so I went to the infirmary to bandage it. That was where I met comrade Cheng. When I got too busy, she took the effort to remember me and look for me to help change my dressing. That's all there is,
Zhao Wu said bashfully.
207
Judging from Zhao Wu's expression and behavior, he had most likely taken a fancy to the girl. Since they were good buddies, they all tried to think of a solution for Zhao Wu.
Then how do you feel about it?
Zhang Yong asked.
I… I'm not thinking much. I just want to just maintain it as it is and see if she has any interest,
Zhao Wu said as he gave the three of them a serious look.
If you need anything, just say it. Her elders and my aunt are colleagues.
Xia Zhe usually kept quiet, but when he spoke, he would go straight to the point.
Zhuang Hua patted Zhao Wu's shoulder and said,
I'm so impressed. Your brother Xia Zhe has already settled her parents for you. Since you're not exactly strangers, it all depends on how you grasp the opportunity!
Zhao Wu nodded clumsily. Actually, he had no other intentions. He just felt that this girl was kind-hearted and treated him quite well, and was also concerned about him when he was injured. He thought that he could think about the future later.
Let's get down to business. The superiors told us to pack up and return to our original military unit in three days. I will be taking a break after that. Do you have any issues with that?
Xia Zhe asked.
Zhuang Hua, Zhang Yong and Zhao Wu all knew that Xia Zhe had yet to take his wedding leave. This was an important matter and should not be delayed.
Don't worry and just go off. We definitely won't let anything happen to the troops. Let's assist with one last rescue search in the next few days and then we can leave,
Zhuang Hua said as he looked at Xia Zhe.
My team may need to leave later as there are many things that we have to hand over. When the time comes, Zhang Yong and his team can leave first,
Zhao Wu said to Xia Zhe.
Alright, let's proceed this way then. Zhang Yong, do you have any problems on your end?
Xia Zhe looked at Zhang Yong seriously and asked him.
No problem, but is it really alright for me to leave first?
Zhang Yong looked at Xia Zhe worriedly.
Currently, the professional rescue team has already taken over the search and rescue mission. Their troops had only come over to help with the rescue because they were close by at the time of the disaster. By now, it was time for them to go back and continue with their own training. However, there were still a lot of things to be done here and the victims had not received help yet. Although it was not their main job, they were still concerned about the victims.
It's alright, there will be more people coming over in the next few days. We just need to follow the arrangements. We should leave our food here for the disaster victims and just take what we need for our journey,
Xia Zhe said.
Alright, I'll go and arrange it now.
Zhang Yong left after saying that.
Zhao Wu followed closely behind, leaving Xia Zhe and Zhuang Hua looking at each other.
Xia Zhe stared at Zhuang Hua, not knowing how to start. Zhuang Hua already knew what Xia Zhe wanted to say.
Let's go to my tent. It's hot outside,
Zhuang Hua said, pointing in the direction of his tent.
Sure.
Xia Zhe nodded.
The two of them walked side by side, each with his own thoughts. However, after being together for so many years, they had basic tacit understanding and knew what each other wanted. It did not take long for them to reach the tent.
Xia Zhe did not stand on ceremony. He sat on Zhuang Hua's bed and looked at him.
You're so stubborn.
Zhuang Hua looked at Xia Zhe resignedly.
Xia Zhe only lowered his head and did not say anything. Although he had no romantic feelings for Zheng Yuan, they had grown up together after all. Xia Zhe was the youngest child in his family and he had always wanted a younger sister. However, he only had a domineering older sister. The Xia family and the Zheng family were neighbors and he had treated Zheng Yuan as a younger sister since they were children.
Zhuang Hua sighed and said,
Zheng Yuan wrote a report herself and even wrote a personal letter to Uncle Zheng. She told him everything and also submitted the report and asked for a transfer.
Yes.
Xia Zhe did not know what to say. He had also written a report, but it was only about the disaster and the arrangements of the troops. There was no mention of Zheng Yuan.
Qiao Mei had told him not to report the matter to his superiors last night, so he had wanted to wait until he returned to the capital and meet Uncle Zheng to tell him about it. However, Zheng Yuan's actions were more resolute than his.
Don't get angry. We've all been together for so many years and you know what kind of person Yuan Yuan is. She's just… impulsive.
Zhuang Hua did not know how to explain the nature of this matter.
I originally intended to report to the superiors, but Qiao Mei did not want me to do it. She said that she could understand Zheng Yuan.
Xia Zhe would always smile gently when he mentioned Qiao Mei. Zhuang Hua also knew that his buddy really liked Qiao Mei.
Then what about you?
Xia Zhe looked at Zhuang Hua.
What do you mean what about me?
Zhuang Hua was prepared to play dumb and let the question slide.
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Seeing that Zhuang Hua still wanted to hide things from him, Xia Zhe reached out to flip the pillow on the bed. Zhuang Hua hurriedly rushed over to stop him and said,
I'll talk, I'll talk!
Xia Zhe did not expose his buddy's secret but waited for Zhuang Hua to speak.
Zhuang Hua did not know where to start. It was actually not a secret, he just never mentioned it to Xia Zhe. In addition, Zhuang Hua was curious about how Xia Zhe knew that he had hidden Zheng Yuan's photo under his pillow.
I'll continue to stay here in the troops and I don't plan to leave.
Zhuang Hua did not say much and just talked about work.
You're not going with her this time?
Xia Zhe asked.
I had intended to, but she told me to stay here and not follow her.
Zhuang Hua scratched his head, indicating that there was nothing he could do about Zheng Yuan's decision.
Xia Zhe also knew what Zhuang Hua wanted to do, but Zhuang Hua was the only son in his family. Zheng Yuan's transfer this time should be a demotion, so if Zhuang Hua went with her, it would be difficult for him to do well in the future.
It's almost the holidays and we'll all be in the same courtyard and see one another. Have you thought about it?
Xia Zhe asked Zhuang Hua.
Zhuang Hua nodded and said,
Yes, let's leave it at that. It would be good for everyone to calm down separately. I also want to think about what I should do and whether I should insist on it. You also know that my parents have been urging me to get married. I had originally managed to stop them from talking about it, but now that you went off and got married secretly, my parents are starting to urge me to get married again.
Xia Zhe smiled in embarrassment and said,
Why? Did my marriage bring you trouble?
After the news about your marriage, Zhang Yong and I already can't count the number of phone calls from our families on just one hand. Fortunately, the news of your wife's pregnancy hasn't spread to the capital yet. If it did, Zhang Yong and I would have to answer calls every day urging us to get married!
Zhuang Hua had a headache just thinking about the phone calls from home.
Xia Zhe smiled and did not say anything. To him, it would be best if all his buddies found good partners as well.
It was late in the morning when Qiao Mei slowly opened her eyes. She touched the side of the bed next to her and realized that Xia Zhe was not around. She hurriedly got up and looked around. The sunlight shone into the tent through the crack in the door.
Looking at the time of the day, Xia Zhe had probably gone to work long ago. Qiao Mei stood up and did some stretches, preparing to go to the cookhouse to take a look. After collecting the water yesterday, they were probably still thinking about what to cook today.
As she walked slowly along the path, many soldiers greeted her and addressed her as Mrs. Xia, making her feel overjoyed.
So this is how it feels to be called Mrs. Xia, hehe.
Qiao Mei skipped her way to the cookhouse.
As soon as she reached the door, she saw the junior soldier shouting inside,
Squad leader! Sister Qiao Mei is here!
When everyone heard that it was Qiao Mei, they put down what they were doing and went up to greet her.
Sister-in-law is here!
Sister-in-law, come quickly! We're having meat today!
Sister-in-law, go sit in the front. This place is so smoky and oily!
Everyone spoke at the same time and Qiao Mei did not know who to answer first. The squad leader asked everyone to quiet down and asked,
Comrade Qiao Mei, why are you here?
Don't call me comrade Qiao Mei. Just call me Qiao Mei. I'm here to see if there's anything I can do to help,
Qiao Mei said as she picked up the apron.
Hey, hey, hey! Don't move. How can we let you work hard when you helped us so much yesterday. Everyone can't thank you enough!
The squad leader laughed and snatched the apron from Qiao Mei's hand.
That's right, that's right!
How can we let sister Qiao Mei work!
Qiao Mei was too embarrassed to reject their kindness so she smiled and said,
Then I'll just sit there and wait to eat delicious food!
Yes, sister Qiao Mei. Just wait for the food!
After saying that, the junior soldier quickly went back to do his tasks diligently.
Everyone returned to their respective posts. Qiao Mei sat under the shade of a tree and looked at the hustle and bustle, feeling very happy. This kind of life was not too bad. It was completely different from before and everyone was very enthusiastic.
Not long after, the fragrance of food wafted out. Although Qiao Mei did not help with the cooking, she secretly gave the vegetables a little bit of energy so that the food would be as fragrant as her cooking even though it was made by others. The food would be so delicious that people would find it unforgettable after eating it.
At noon, when everyone was done with their work and came back to the camp, they all ran to the cookhouse to get food. They were so worried that there would be no food left if they were late, so they all rushed to line up.
209
Qiao Mei smiled as she sat under the shade of the tree and watched the soldiers scrambling to get their food. The junior soldier from the cookhouse ran to Qiao Mei as he panted.
Sister-in-law, come try this. The food that's made by the cookhouse today is very fragrant!
Beads of sweat rolled down the junior soldier's face.
Qiao Mei looked at the junior soldier in front of her. The clothes on his back were drenched in sweat. He had very tanned skin, and a simple and honest smile. The mess tin in his hand was very clean and filled with all kinds of dishes, especially meat. In the army, meat was especially scarce and yet they were willing to give it to her to eat.
Qiao Mei quickly shook her head and said,
You guys gave me too much. Quickly bring it back for everyone else to eat.
The junior soldier looked at Qiao Mei very seriously and said,
Sister-in-law! Don't worry and just eat it! There's still a lot left in the pots. I'll leave it here for you. I need to go back, there's still lots of work!
The junior soldier hurriedly placed the mess tin on a stool at the side and ran back, afraid that Qiao Mei would stop him if he was even a second slower.
Qiao Mei shook her head helplessly and smiled as she looked in the direction that the junior soldier had left in, and then at the mess tin beside her. She could feel everyone's care and love for her contained in it.
Qiao Mei happily returned to the tent with the mess tin and waited for Xia Zhe to come back to share it with her. Otherwise, she would definitely not be able to finish it herself and it would be wasteful.
After Xia Zhe and Zhuang Hua finished talking and made arrangements for the evacuation, he returned to his tent. He thought that Qiao Mei must be very bored staying in the tent alone.
Unexpectedly, before he even entered the tent, he could hear Qiao Mei singing in the tent. He could not tell what she was doing, but she sounded very happy.
Xia Zhe opened the tent door and saw that Qiao Mei was looking at a metal mess tin filled with meat and singing a song he could not recognize.
Hey! You're back! Hurry up, come and eat!
Qiao Mei's eyes lit up when she saw Xia Zhe.
Xia Zhe took off his jacket and sat beside Qiao Mei.
What made you so happy?
Oh, let me tell you, I originally wanted to go to the cookhouse to take a look and help out. In the end, they didn't let me help and instead gave me lunch with a lot of meat!
Qiao Mei indicated with her small hands to show how much meat there was.
Qiao Mei's cute gesture left Xia Zhe in a good mood as well. He reached out to pat her head and asked,
Then why aren't you eating? You just sit here looking at it.
At the mention of this, Qiao Mei pouted and said,
All because I'm waiting for you…
Xia Zhe thought his heart would melt. Although Qiao Mei was mostly a forthright person when she interacted with other people, she behaved like a little girl in front of Xia Zhe and he was just full of tender affection for her.
Yes, yes, yes. It's my fault. I'll come back earlier next time. Hurry up and eat.
Xia Zhe handed the chopsticks to Qiao Mei.
Qiao Mei picked up a piece of meat and placed it by Xia Zhe's mouth.
Try it quickly!
Xia Zhe smiled and opened his mouth to eat it. He muttered,
You eat it. This is quite delicious.
Hearing from Xia Zhe that it was tasty, Qiao Mei did not stand on ceremony and started eating. She suddenly thought of something else and ran to her bag to take out a glass jar filled with pickled radishes.
Aye, I can't remember who said that my pickled radishes don't taste nice. Isn't that right, Commander Xia?
Qiao Mei said enigmatically.
Xia Zhe also recalled what happened that day. At that time, he did not recognize Qiao Mei and just made a casual remark. He did not expect this little girl to bear a grudge.
No way. It's definitely not me,
Xia Zhe looked at Qiao Mei and answered tentatively.
Qiao Mei opened the jar and took out a piece of pickle. She waved it in front of Xia Zhe a few times before eating it, leaving Xia Zhe sitting on the spot with a helpless expression. He wondered how to deal with a troublemaker like Qiao Mei.
My little ancestor, please spare me. I didn't know it was you back then,
Xia Zhe said as he held Qiao Mei's hand.
As the saying went, heroes could not resist the charms of beautiful women. For Qiao Mei though, the beautiful woman could not resist the charm of the hero.
Looking at Xia Zhe's handsome face, coupled with his deep voice, she was unable to remain angry anymore. Besides, she was just joking and did not really want to ask Xia Zhe for an explanation.
210
Alright, I won't tease you anymore. You should eat some too,
Qiao Mei said awkwardly.
By the way, the superiors said that they want us to evacuate within the next three days. I will take a break after we return to our original military unit. Is there anywhere that you want to go?
Xia Zhe asked.
Qiao Mei wanted to go and travel around, but she had been away from home for a long time. She had to hurry to the capital to visit Xia Zhe's family and then send a letter to her grandfather. Otherwise, her grandfather would be anxious if he did not hear from her for so long.
Let's go to the capital,
Qiao Mei said without looking up.
Xia Zhe originally wanted to go traveling with Qiao Mei, thinking that she had probably never been out on a long trip before. He did not expect Qiao Mei to want to go to the capital to meet his family.
Really? Do you want to go to my house?
Xia Zhe asked happily.
Yes, I already think it's a little rude to go only now. Do you think your parents won't like me?
Thinking of this, Qiao Mei became worried.
No, my parents are easy to talk to. It's not likely that they won't like you,
Xia Zhe said gently.
Xia Zhe's father, Xia Mao, was famous for having a good temper, but Xia Zhe's mother, Xu Lan, was not so easy to get along with. She was quite a critical person and she liked to be fashionable. She would probably look down on Qiao Mei, who came from the countryside.
Previously, Xu Lan had wanted Xia Zhe to be with the daughter of the Zhou family, who was also from a military family and had a good family background, all of which would benefit the Xia family. The daughter of the Zhou family was also a good-looking girl, so Xu Lan did not expect Xia Zhe to secretly get married, what more to a girl from the countryside.
At that time, Xu Lan was still busy discussing Xia Zhe's marriage in the capital. In the end, she received news of Xia Zhe's marriage and that the couple even had a child on the way. She almost choked on her breath when she heard that, and she still hated this matter even now.
After Qiao Mei finished eating, she started to clean up. She thought that she might want to do some shopping along the way and see if she could get more clothes.
So where are we going this time?
Qiao Mei asked without turning her head.
Mei Mei, you can't go with me this time,
Xia Zhe said awkwardly.
I can't go?
Qiao Mei looked back at Xia Zhe in confusion. Then, she remembered what her grandfather had told her before.
Oh! You can't tell me because of the military rules!
Qiao Mei said in realization.
Yes, you're still not a military spouse now, so you can't come with me yet,
Xia Zhe explained.
Qiao Mei could not help but feel a little lost and said with disappointment,
Then I should go home?
No need. Let's do this, I'll send a letter to my aunt now so that you can go to her house to stay for a few days first. I'll come and look for you after I've settled my work at the military unit,
Xia Zhe said.
His original military unit was located near the capital and he could go back very quickly. His aunt was also a warm-hearted person, so Qiao Mei should be fine, given that she was so likable.
Initially he just wanted to fulfill the basic responsibility of being a husband. After all, their first encounter was a little ridiculous. However, it was a totally different situation now. He also knew Qiao Me so much better.
He had fallen deeply in love with Qiao Mei. Although she had crooked handwriting, she was actually very smart. Although she had some shortcomings when they first met, she was very beautiful now. She had actually lost so much weight for him and even traveled thousands of miles to look for him and even saved his life.
Now, he did not want to leave Qiao Mei's side for even a second. He only wanted to stay by her side.
Before the earthquake, the results of the earlier competition in the army had already been released. He had won first place as he wanted. This time, when he returned to the military unit, although he mainly needed to settle the matter of the evaluation, he also wanted to settle the matter of Qiao Mei being a military spouse as soon as possible. He did not want to be separated from Qiao Mei for too long.
Your aunt's place… What kind of person is your aunt and what should I buy for her?
Qiao Mei asked.
My aunt is very easy to get along with. You can just go there. There's no need to bring anything,
Xia Zhe said with a smile.
She thought it was fortunate that she was going to his aunt's house and not directly to his house to look for his parents on her own. Just imagining such a scene made her feel awkward, as it would be like a daughter-in-law from the countryside bringing her child to seek refuge.
Qiao Mei tilted her head and thought about what to wear to his aunt's house and what kind of person his aunt would be like.
Looking at Qiao Mei, who was lost in her thoughts, Xia Zhe could not help but go forward to hug her.
Don't worry, I'll go and look for you very soon,
Xia Zhe said.
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Xia Zhe took out a few tattered dollar notes from his pocket and placed them in Qiao Mei's hands one by one.
I've given you all my money every month. I borrowed this from Zhao Wu and the others. Take it, in case you need to buy things on the way.
Qiao Mei actually had a lot of money in her bag, but she felt a sense of warmth when she saw Xia Zhe giving her the money and telling her seriously to use it to buy things she needed on the way.
Qiao Mei took out a small square handkerchief and wrapped up the money.
Don't worry, I won't go hungry.
After thinking about it, Xia Zhe still felt worried and when he packed for Qiao Mei, he put in all the useful army supplies that he could think of. When the soldiers in the cookhouse knew that Qiao Mei was leaving, they all came to see her.
Sister-in-law, here are some dried vegetables that we made ourselves. You can eat it on the way!
And me! Sister-in-law, I secretly brought this waxed sausage from home. There's not much left though, if you don't mind!
And me, and me!
Sister-in-law, take these steamed buns with you!
Everyone spoke one after another and there were so many gifts that Qiao Mei could barely hold them all in her arms. When Xia Zhe saw this scene, he could not believe that these soldiers were actually all such enthusiastic people.
Usually, Xia Zhe was unsmiling and looked very serious. Everyone felt that Xia Zhe was very fierce, and given that his combat skills were top-notch, no one dared to provoke him and they did not dare to speak when they saw him. They even nicknamed Xia Zhe the
Living King of Hell
because he was especially strict and ruthless when it came to training soldiers. However, all the soldiers who were trained by him would turn out to be very capable.
Alright, alright, I can't take so much with me. I'll just take the steamed buns. You can all bring back the rest of the things. I'm just going to the capital and will reach there very quickly. Don't worry!
Qiao Mei shouted above the noise.
Everyone was relieved to hear that.
Alright, you can all go back now,
Xia Zhe said.
Seeing that Commander Xia had given an order, everyone took their things and went back. Only the squad leader said smugly on the way,
See, my steamed buns are the most useful. Hahahahaha!
Qiao Mei looked at the departing soldiers and felt a little reluctant to part with them. After being together for so many days, she already had some feelings for them.
Xia Zhe said darkly,
Come back here. Stop looking.
Qiao Mei placed a pile of steamed buns beside her backpack.
Everyone is so warm-hearted,
Qiao Mei said to Xia Zhe with a smile.
From everyone's behavior, it was obvious that Qiao Mei had been well liked by everyone during this period of time. There were even many people who privately talked about finding a wife like Qiao Mei, who was beautiful, kind and an exceptional cook.
The next morning, Xia Zhe sent Qiao Mei to the car. As the railway was damaged by the earthquake, they could only travel by cars. The ride would be bumpy and Xia Zhe was worried about Qiao Mei going to the capital on her own.
This car was an internal transport vehicle. Other than transporting equipment, there were also three other army comrades sent to the capital to report back on this mission. Xia Zhe was less worried, knowing that Qiao Mei would be traveling with them.
After arriving in the capital, they would stop the car by the roadside for Qiao Mei to get off. Xia Zhe had already called his aunt in advance to inform her of the exact location.
After a bumpy ride for a whole day, they arrived at the capital. Xia Zhe's aunt was already waiting at the meeting location.
The other guys helped Qiao Mei out of the car and she waved towards the back.
Goodbye! Thank you!
As soon as Xia Fang saw Qiao Mei, she knew that this girl was Xiao Zhe's wife. A beautiful girl who came down from a military vehicle could not be the wrong guess.
With her fair skin, lively eyes and slender figure, it was no wonder that Xiao Zhe did not inform his family and just got married straight away.
If his aunt knew what Qiao Mei looked like in the past, she might have a new understanding of Xia Zhe.
Qiao Mei carried her bag and looked around. She immediately saw Xia Zhe's aunt, Xia Fang, who looked about 40 years old. One look and she could tell that Xia Fang was a lady from a wealthy family as she had a very elegant aura.
Hello, are you Xia Zhe's aunt?
Qiao Mei asked daintily.
Yes, I'm Xia Zhe's aunt. My name is Xia Fang. You must be exhausted. Come, let's go back to my house,
Xia Fang said as she quickly took the backpack from Qiao Mei's shoulders.
Aunt, let me do it,
Qiao Mei said.
It's alright, let's go home.
Xia Fang carried the backpack and took the bus home with Qiao Mei.
212
Xia Fang's house was in a good location at the edge of the city center. It was a nice area where one might not be able to buy a place even if one had the money. The buildings in the district were all four stories high and there was also a lot of greenery around.
Xia Fang was the chief physician of the obstetrics and gynecology department at the city hospital and many people knew her. This was a house allocated by the hospital, and most of the people in this neighborhood were colleagues from the same hospital.
Along the way, many people saw Xia Fang with a beautiful girl and they all tried to find out which family had such a beautiful daughter.
Our Xia Zhe, Xiao Zhe's wife!
Xia Fang repeated this sentence to many people along the way, smiling so widely that her eyes could barely open.
In their younger days, Xia Mao and Xu Lan were both too busy to take care of Xia Zhe. When Xia Zhe was young, Xia Fang was the one who took care of him most of the time. Moreover, Xia Fang's place was close to Xia Zhe's school. As time passed, everyone living in the area knew Xia Zhe.
Xia Zhe's wife?
A middle-aged woman suddenly rushed over from the crowd and questioned Xia Fang.
The middle-aged woman looked at Qiao Mei fiercely, almost like she wanted to tear Qiao Mei apart and swallow her alive.
Xia Fang frowned and shielded Qiao Mei behind her, preparing to leave.
Don't go! Tell me who she is!
the woman said fiercely as she grabbed Qiao Mei's arm.
Qiao Mei felt some pain from the grip, but as she did not know what this person's background was, she thought that it was better not to make any move since she had only just arrived in the capital.
Xia Fang immediately got angry when she saw what was happening. She pushed the woman away and said,
Yes! So what if she's Xiao Zhe's wife! Don't harass her here! Can you afford it if you hurt our Xiao Zhe's child!
Child? Xia Zhe actually had a child with her?
The woman's expression became even more weird and Qiao Mei became wary when she saw this. She was not afraid that this woman would attack her, but she was more concerned that her child would be hurt. Qiao Mei held her stomach and did not make a sound.
Xia Fang saw the red mark on Qiao Mei's arm and then the look in the woman's eyes. Xia Fang stood in front of Qiao Mei to prevent the woman from looking at Qiao Mei.
What right does Xia Zhe have to get married! He's an ungrateful bastard! He said that he would be with my Xiao'e! Why did he get married once he left! How can he not keep his word!
The woman dropped to the ground and cried as she bent over.
Qiao Mei widened her eyes when she heard that.
I'm the other woman?
Qiao Mei could not help but feel a little uncertain. Back then, she had indeed tricked Xia Zhe into bed, and it never crossed her mind that Xia Zhe might have a fiancée.
Don't listen to her nonsense!
one of the neighbors stood next to Qiao Mei and said.
Her Xiao'e and Xia Zhe are not in a relationship at all. They can't even be considered classmates. They're just playmates in the same courtyard,
the neighbor said.
That's right. What does your Xiao'e have to do with Xia Zhe? It's clearly your Xiao'e who chased after him and refused to give up after being rejected.
You still have the cheek to cry here. Every time Xia Zhe comes here, you act like this.
Everyone talked after one another and explained the matter clearly. The story was that Xiao'e had taken a fancy to Xia Zhe, but Xia Zhe did not like her and rejected her, but Xiao'e refused to let it go.
How long has it been since your Xiao'e was rejected? Xia Zhe has already been a soldier for more than 10 years. Why are you still thinking about him?
That's right, that's right. Your Xiao'e just had her engagement broken off a few days ago. Don't tell me she's thinking about Xia Zhe again after knowing that he's coming back?
A few neighbors started to expose the ugly truth.
Pfft! What nonsense are you talking about!
The woman cursed at them as she remained bent over the ground. Everyone around her was talking and she did not know who to scold. She looked like a person who had lost her mind.
My Xiao'e has made a pact with Xia Zhe before. They have an agreement…
Before the woman could finish speaking, Xia Fang interrupted her and said,
Don't be so shameless. When did our Xia Zhe make a pact with your daughter? Please don't think that our family is as shameless as yours.
That's right. Of all people, you choose to pick on Xia Zhe. You should hurry home and stop embarrassing yourself here.
That's right, that's right!
What a joke!
The neighbors spoke one after another. It seemed that this woman had offended everyone a lot. Otherwise, no one would say such things about her.
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Zhao Ni! Just shut up! Don't you think your Xiao'e has embarrassed herself enough! Why must you make a fuss until everyone knows about it!
Xia Fang pointed at Zhao Ni angrily and scolded her,
Have some self-respect!
Pfft! What a snob you are! What's wrong with our Xiao'e! Back then, your Xia Zhe still begged to marry our Xiao'e! In the blink of an eye, he doesn't seem to know her anymore! How heartless!
Zhao Ni sat on the ground and wailed. Xia Fang was so angry that her hands trembled, but she did not know how to deal with Zhao Ni.
Listen carefully! Our Xia Zhe is married. He did not have any previous relationship with your child at all. They didn't even talk much!
Xia Fang explained.
Let's go back.
Xia Fang did not want to waste her breath and steered Qiao Mei towards the direction of her house.
Zhao Ni quickly stood up to stop them from leaving.
After a long day of traveling, as well as not having absorbed the energy of surrounding plants for a long time, Qiao Mei already felt a little tired.
Don't go! Make yourself clear! When is Xia Zhe coming back!
Zhao Ni glared fiercely at Qiao Mei.
So what if he's back, anyway our Xia Zhe is already married. Get out of the way!
Xia Fang pushed away Zhao Ni, who was standing in the way, and walked away with Qiao Mei.
Zhao Ni sat back on the ground and pointed at Qiao Mei.
Look at how poor she looks! Xia Zhe has only taken a fancy to her face! She looks like she came from the countryside! A marriage can still end in divorce! We're not afraid! Just you wait!
When the neighbors standing around saw Xia Fang leaving and that the drama had ended, they all went home as well.
Seeing no one around anymore, Zhao Ni also left while still cursing on the way.
Her Xiao'e had a miscarriage and a broken engagement. From then on, Zhao Ni became completely shameless. As long as someone looked at her, she would scold the person and say that the person looked down on her.
In the past, Zhao Ni had married well and her husband was the deputy director of the hospital. She had always been a full-time wife at home taking care of her husband and children. She used to be very arrogant and looked down on everyone. Now, she was like a shrew and did not resemble her previously dignified self at all. Even her daughter, who was once a nice good girl, became influenced by her.
The neighbors all lamented and thought that it was such a waste of a good kid like Xiao'e.
However, Zhao Ni's current situation was also caused by her children. It was always the parents who had to pay for their children's debts.
Xia Fang brought Qiao Mei home. Xia Fang's house was on the fourth floor, which was the highest floor. The house occupied an area of more than 120 square meters and had an exquisite timber floor. There were beautiful white porcelain tiles in the kitchen.
There was a large color television, a large refrigerator, a washing machine, a radio, and a sewing machine. Xia Fang had all the most advanced items at home. Just the large television alone made Qiao Mei marvel with wonder.
Not only did she have these things, but the top floor also came with a loft. There was a small skylight that allowed one to see the starry sky at night. Xia Fang loved flowers and plants and planted many flowers in the loft, all of which were blooming beautifully.
Xia Zhe's wife, come sit down and drink some water. You must be tired from the journey.
Xia Fang had not been idle since she entered the house. She kept bringing food and drinks for Qiao Mei, afraid that Qiao Mei would be too tired.
Qiao Mei obediently took the cup and took a few sips. She looked at Xia Fang with her big eyes, making Xia Fang's feel as if her heart could melt.
Xia Zhe has nothing to do with that person's daughter. The two of them just grew up in the same compound. Xia Zhe's school is close to here, so he basically comes to stay with me during his school days. Her child is also from this compound, so the kids know each other since they play together,
Xia Fang said nervously as she looked at Qiao Mei.
Qiao Mei listened quietly to what Xia Fang said and did not take anything to heart. She knew that Xia Zhe must have suitors in the capital, but she just did not expect them to be so aggressive.
Xia Fang was also puzzled. She wondered why Qiao Mei did not look angry, and whether it was because she did not care about their Xia Zhe.
Did she really not care, or was she just magnanimous? Or did she have other plans?
Xia Fang had all these thoughts in her head.
Ah, that girl has to be around 26 or 27 years old, right?
Qiao Mei said.
Yes, she's 26 this year,
Xia Fang nodded and said.
Xia Zhe was three to four years older than her. When Xia Zhe left back then, Xiao'e had been chasing after him relentlessly. Even now, her mother was still thinking about Xia Zhe.
214
Qiao Mei smiled and thought that she had to remember this. When Xia Zhe came back, she had to ask him why he had so many outstanding romantic businesses.
At the thought of this, Qiao Mei could not help but laugh audibly.
When Xia Fang saw that not only was Qiao Mei not angry, but actually looked quite happy, she became uncertain. Was it that Qiao Mei did not like Xia Zhe and now intended to get a divorce?
It could not be so. Their Xia Zhe could be considered handsome and had a good family background. How could she not be satisfied?
Could it be that Xia Zhe had done something unfaithful!
Xia Fang's heart was in turmoil and all kinds of thoughts crossed her mind. She did not know what Qiao Mei was thinking.
Then she was married before? And had her engagement broken off?
Qiao Mei said as she looked at Xia Fang curiously.
Xia Fang did not hide anything from Qiao Mei and told her everything she knew.
Xiao'e's actual name was Qian'e and she was a student from a girls' school in the capital. She had originally taken a liking to Xia Zhe and then it had gone on for a few years. In the beginning, she only liked him secretly. It was only when Xia Zhe joined the army later that she started behaving badly.
She would go to Xia Fang's house every other day and even went around telling people that Xia Zhe liked her and was going to marry her when he returned from the army.
Everyone saw her frequent visits to Xia Fang's house, so they thought that what she said was true.
Xia Fang told everyone in private that this was not the case, but before the earlier rumors could be clarified, Qian'e went around chatting with everyone again, hinting that Xia Fang's clarification was fake.
Xia Zhe was a person who did not like to talk much. Xia Fang had asked him privately if he liked Qian'e and Xia Zhe made it absolutely clear that he did not. Therefore, Xia Fang had always refuted the rumors forcefully.
In the end, this matter reached the ears of Xia Zhe's mother, Xu Lan. She was a person who cared very much about family background, so she became even angrier when she heard such news.
Xu Lan was not someone to be trifled with. She went straight to Qian'e and asked her to stop making a fuss or it could be considered slander. Qian'e stopped what she was doing after that.
However, there was no proper closure to the matter. After that, Qian'e never got married and when she was 24 years old and still single, she gained a reputation for being the old spinster in this area. Zhao Ni could not stand the embarrassment and found Qian'e a partner from a family which was of equal status to them. It was only then that Qian'e did not go to Xia Fang's house again and did not think about Xia Zhe anymore.
She did not even greet Xia Fang even when they bumped into each other on the street. She behaved in a very arrogant manner, as if she had found a powerful backer.
Her partner's family background could be considered to be not bad. His family was in business, which was a background that was looked upon favorably.
Xia Fang did not take further notice as she was not too interested in such things. She would not have been able to imagine that three months after that coincidental meeting, she would see Qian'e in the hospital and accompanied by her mother, Zhao Ni, instead of her husband.
At that time, Xia Fang was not the chief physician yet. That day, all the other doctors had scheduled surgeries and were very busy, so they had recalled her to the hospital for an emergency operation.
She did not expect to have to perform surgery on Qian'e.
Qian'e was found to have an ectopic pregnancy and was bleeding profusely. She was already on the verge of going into shock given that she was anemic and weak, and was brought to the hospital too late. In order to save Qian'e's life, Xia Fang had no choice but to remove her uterus.
It was Xia Fang who performed the surgery on Qian'e even though the mother-daughter duo's initial plan was to keep the matter a secret from Xia Fang. At that time, Zhao Ni had an especially awkward expression on her face.
Later on, Zhao Ni went to the man's house to demand an explanation. The man refused to admit that the child was his and even tarnished Qian'e reputation by saying that Qian'e was a promiscuous person.
Yet, this matter was settled in less than two days after that. Xia Fang did not know what the man offered Zhao Ni to make her agree to a compromise, making her daughter a sacrifice.
Given that Xia Fang did not panic during this surgery and made decisive judgments, she was promoted to the chief physician as a result.
This was something that happened many years back. This Qian'e is also really pitiful. She's still young but she already can't have children.
Although Xia Fang had a bad impression of Qian'e, she still felt an overwhelming sense of pity for the girl.
It was only now that Qiao Mei understood the entire matter. It turned out that Qian'e had nothing to do with her husband, Xia Zhe. It was solely Qian'e and her family blowing their own trumpet. Throughout the entire matter, Xia Zhe had never been concerned about them.
Qiao Mei clenched her fists in anger and remained silent. Xia Fang did not understand why Qiao Mei only became angry after hearing the story.
215
If Qian'e was Xia Zhe's ex-girlfriend, Qiao Mei would still feel a little ashamed and feel that she owed Qian'e something. However, it turned out that it was Qian'e who bullied Xia Zhe because he was an upright person who did not like to talk, and she kept bullying him! She even went around spreading rumors!
Just because Xia Zhe doesn't like to speak and explain himself, she keeps clinging onto him!
Qiao Mei said angrily.
Xia Fang laughed out loudly when she heard what Qiao Mei said. So this kid was angry on Xia Zhe's behalf. How cute.
Don't be angry. Let's ignore her. I'll take a look at you now,
Xia Fang said as she pointed at Qiao Mei's stomach.
Before Qiao Mei came, she already heard from Xia Zhe that his aunt was the chief of the obstetrics and gynecology department and a very good doctor.
Qiao Mei hurriedly replied,
Yes, alright.
She obediently listened to Xia Fang's instructions and did not contradict her at all.
A pregnancy examination was actually very simple and not an advanced procedure at all. The entire process was simply to check on the pregnant woman's body measurements, her height, her weight, whether her joints were sore and the extent of her morning sickness.
Xia Fang's house had all the equipment to do these tests. Qiao Mei now weighed 130 pounds and she was 172 centimeters tall. Everything was fine and within normal ranges.
It's not bad. Keep it up. Everything's fine, going by how you look.
Xia Fang nodded, unable to contain her joy.
Qiao Mei finally knew how much weight she had lost. If she was not pregnant, she would definitely be even slimmer.
Mei Mei, you can rest in this room. This is where Xia Zhe always stayed. Even though he has been a soldier for the past few years, I still clean his room often and I haven't touched anything,
Xia Fang said.
Xia Zhe's room was the secondary bedroom, and it could be considered a very large room. The floor area was more than 20 square meters and in the room, there were bright and clean windows, a simple white large closet, a study desk by the window, and a bookcase filled with all kinds of books. The walls were also hung full of Xia Zhe's awards and medals.
She could tell that Xia Fang had taken good care of this room and cleaned it regularly.
There were also a lot of clothes on the single bed and it was obvious that they were women's dresses and pants.
Mei Mei, come quickly. These are all the new clothes I've prepared for you. See if they suit you. If not, we'll go out and buy more.
Xia Fang pulled Qiao Mei over to the bed.
There were around 10 pieces of clothes covering the entire bed.
After Xia Fang received Xia Zhe's call and knew that Qiao Mei was coming to her house, she carefully asked about Qiao Mei's figure in detail and went to the shops to find things that would be useful for her.
She even bought new bed linen, and made sure that they were the best and most comfortable ones available. She had always treated Xia Zhe as her child and now she was treating Qiao Mei as her own as well.
That's a lot!
Qiao Mei looked at the clothes on the bed in surprise.
Qiao Mei reached out to touch the material. As soon as she did, she knew that these clothes were of the best quality and were not cheap. It was a trend nowadays to demand for quality and this piece of clothing would have cost around 30 dollars.
She did not know how much it would cost to buy so many clothes. There were not only clothes but also shoes of various styles.
It would probably add up to around 500 dollars.
That would be equivalent to 10 months of grandfather's salary!
It was obvious that Xia Fang doted on Qiao Mei a lot.
Qiao Mei had been with the troops for so many days and was covered in dust and dirt. If not for her beauty and the fact that she had a natural body fragrance, she would have been despised by everyone she met.
It also explained why, during the earlier interaction downstairs, Zhao Ni had said that Qiao Mei looked poor, as if she came from the countryside.
Aunt, is it possible to take a shower at home? I would like to take a shower.
Qiao Mei looked at the new clothes and she did not reject aunt's kindness. She had more expensive gifts than that in her bag.
However, she was covered in dust at the moment and it would be a waste of effort to change into new clothes. She had to take a shower first.
Xia Fang quickly brought Qiao Mei to the bathroom and said,
Look at me, I was so busy that I forgot to let you wash up first.
The bathroom was also very big. In her memory, most of the houses in this era were apartment buildings and the bathroom in each house was only big enough to accommodate just one person and it was difficult for one person to even turn around in it.
Otherwise, there were no bathrooms at all and people had to share communal bathrooms and kitchens. Anyone who had their own bathrooms were considered to be living very well.
Qiao Mei looked at the fixtures and fittings in the bathroom and could not help but marvel that the capital was indeed an amazing place. The washbasin and water heater in Xia Fang's house were imported appliances and looked expensive.
216
Come Mei Mei, don't get scalded. I'll teach you.
Xia Fang's tone was very gentle and she did not look down on Qiao Mei at all.
She slowly taught Qiao Mei how to use the appliances and brought her a new towel and toothbrush, as well as newly bought comfortable underwear.
Xia Fang held on to the underwear as she looked Qiao Mei up and down.
Did I… buy too small a size? Perhaps you can make do with it for now. I can go and buy new ones now, it's just nearby,
Xia Fang said.
Qiao Mei looked at her chest and thought that it did look a little bigger than before. Perhaps it was because of the pregnancy.
No need for that, Aunt! I brought many new ones!
Qiao Mei said as she held back Xia Fang.
She was afraid that if she spoke too slowly, Xia Fang would head out to buy another pile of clothes.
Qiao Mei returned to the room and opened her backpack. She took out all her clothes and put her underwear at the bottom of the stack.
Xia Fang casually picked up the light blue dress made by Qiao Mei and unfolded it. There was nothing really special about this dress. It was just a simple tailored dress with a circle of white floral patterns embroidered on the side.
Xia Fang had never seen such a design before and found it novel.
Mei Mei, is this a popular design from where you came from?
Xia Fang asked curiously.
No, Aunt. I made this myself. It's maternity wear,
Qiao Mei answered patiently.
Maternity wear? Xia Fang looked at the pure cotton clothing that she was holding in her hands. The more she looked at it, the more she liked it. She did not expect Qiao Mei to be skillful enough to be able to make her own clothes.
Xia Fang looked at Qiao Mei with even more affection in her eyes.
The clothes she bought had excellent workmanship and were made of various types of fabrics. They were beautiful and durable, and the styles were varied.
Being a doctor, she naturally knew that pure cotton fabric was the best for pregnant women. However, she was afraid that Qiao Mei would misunderstand her intention, so she bought the most expensive and best ones.
Qiao Mei watched Xia Fang fondle the dress lovingly as if she could not bear to part with it. Although Xia Fang did not say anything, her eyes revealed her fondness for it.
In her heart, Qiao Mei secretly planned to make a beautiful dress for Xia Fang so that she could also have something pretty to wear.
Qiao Mei took her toiletries and a set of new clothes and went to take a shower. She finished washing up very quickly and came out with a change of clothes.
Her hair was in a neat braid and she had tied a white ribbon bow at the end of her hair. She wore the light blue maternity dress and looked refreshed and unique.
The way she was beautifully dressed, she did not look like a girl from the countryside at all. People would believe it if they were told that she was from a rich family.
No wonder their Xia Zhe got married quietly and without informing anyone, and even already had a child!
This was another person who felt that Xia Zhe had married Qiao Mei because he was blinded by his lust for her. Only Qiao Qiang and the couple knew about what exactly happened back then.
Come and eat, Mei Mei. I'm not a good cook, so just make do with it,
Xia Fang said embarrassedly.
There were a total of 12 dishes, including fish, meat and seafood. It was as if they were celebrating a festival. Qiao Mei thought that if this was still not good enough, then she did not know how to define good anymore.
Qiao Mei shyly sat down to eat and rushed to wash the dishes when they had finished.
Xia Fang did not try to stop her. It was a workday and she should be at work, but she had taken a day off for Qiao Mei. However, the hospital had called her just now to ask her to go back for an emergency case, so she had no choice.
Mei Mei, I have to go to the hospital. There's a patient I have to see. You have to remember not to open the door no matter who comes by. We all have our own set of keys,
Xia Fang said as she packed her things.
Qiao Mei nodded obediently.
Also, on the shelf at the door, there's a keychain with a lamb toy attached to it. That's your key. Wait for me to come back and then I'll show you around. Otherwise, I'm afraid you'll get lost. Also, don't use anything dangerous, like knives or such…
Xia Fang nagged at Qiao Mei as she hurriedly packed up.
Qiao Mei looked at Xia Fang and could not help but smile. She had thought that Xia Fang would be a rigid person like Xia Zhe, and did not expect her to have such a nice temper.
When Xia Fang did not hear Qiao Mei's reply, she looked up and asked,
Mei Mei, do you remember everything I said?
When she looked up and saw Qiao Mei's bright smile, Xia Fang could not help but smile back as well.
I hope you remembered everything. Don't forget anything. I really have to go before it's too late.
Xia Fang put on her shoes and went out.
Yes, yes. Off you go,
Qiao Mei waved goodbye and returned to the room to unpack her luggage.
217
After sending Xia Fang off, Qiao Mei returned to the kitchen and hummed a tune as she cleared the crockery and cutlery. As there was a water heater in the house, the water was warm and not cold at all.
In the past, there was no such advanced equipment in the village. She guessed that her grandfather, Qiao Qiang, had probably never seen such an electric appliance before. Even in the county city, there were not many families who would be able to afford it.
What she did back at home was to boil water in the big cooking pot and then use the cold water in the well to neutralize the temperature of the water. The water in the well was cold even in summer. Qiao Mei really disliked not being able to find a good solution to get warm water. After all, no matter how well the big cooking pot was scrubbed during washing up, it was impossible to guarantee that there was no oil at all after that.
Given the situation, it was inevitable that there would always be some oil in her bath water, even though it was just a thin layer and not a lot.
When there's a chance, I'll think of a way to bring one back and ask grandfather to install it for me. I can't let go of such a good thing.
Qiao Mei was still thinking about how to connect the pipes in the village when she heard someone pounding on the door.
Qiao Mei stood at the kitchen door and looked out before she stopped herself.
Before Xia Fang left, she had told Qiao Mei not to open the door for anyone. Besides, if the visitor was really looking for Aunt, the visitor would go off to look for her at the hospital if there was no one at home, and would not knock for too long.
Unexpectedly, not only did this person continue to knock on the door, but the knocking became more forceful, as if the person would smash a hole in the door if it was not opened.
Qiao Mei frowned slightly and wiped her hands clean before opening the door.
As soon as she opened the door, she saw an aggressive woman who looked a little older, with not very good skin. She even had very serious dark circles under her eyes and she was quite thin.
Who are you and where's Auntie Xia Fang?
the woman said disdainfully.
She went out. If you're looking for her, come back tomorrow.
Qiao Mei rebuffed the woman the moment she heard her asking for Xia Fang. She was about to close the door when the woman stopped her.
I'm not here to look for Auntie Xia Fang. Go ask that country bumpkin to come out,
the woman said.
Country bumpkin?
Could she be talking about me?
Qiao Mei smiled and said,
Maybe I'm the country bumpkin you're looking for.
The woman looked at Qiao Mei in disbelief. According to her mother, the person who came was a poor villager. The person in front of her did not look like a woman who did farming in the countryside.
You must be Qian'e,
Qiao Mei guessed.
You know about me?
Qian'e looked at Qiao Mei and asked.
Yes.
Qiao Mei nodded. After hearing the whole story from Xia Fang, she felt as if she knew enough about Qian'e.
However, the unexpected thing was that Qian'e misunderstood what Qiao Mei meant and thought that Xia Zhe had told Qiao Mei that she was Xia Zhe's fiancée.
You knew about me but you still married Xia Zhe! Shameless thing!
Qian'e suddenly became irritable.
Qiao Mei had a puzzled look on her face. She found herself unable to understand what Qian'e was saying.
The surrounding neighbors came out to see who was causing the commotion. When they saw that it was Qian'e, most of them came to help Qiao Mei while some people remained watching from the side.
Xia Zhe's wife, ignore this crazy woman and hurry back into the house,
said an elderly female neighbor in the crowd.
Pfft! Who are you calling Xia Zhe's wife! I'm Xia Zhe's girlfriend!
Qian'e yelled loudly when she heard this.
Qiao Mei looked helplessly at the woman in front of her who had come to cause trouble. As she could not teach the woman a lesson, she clenched her fists in anger and blamed it all on Xia Zhe for going around incurring
romantic debts
!
You! You must have used some tactics to get Xia Zhe to marry you! What's your name! How many people are there in your family! Who allowed you to marry Xia Zhe!
Qian'e threw out a lot of questions, almost like she was checking up on all of Qiao Mei's ancestors.
My name is Qiao Mei. As for your other queries, you can find out for yourself since you're so capable.
Qiao Mei rolled her eyes and paid no heed.
Qian'e stomped her feet in anger, and Qiao Mei then asked,
Who are you? What's your designation? Are you the director of the women's community in this apartment complex?
Hahahahahaha!
The neighbors who were watching the commotion burst out laughing.
For a woman to become the director of the women's community in her apartment complex, she needed to have a happy family, to have given birth and raise children, as well as to be married. It's not a position that anyone could take up.
You! I'm Xia Zhe's fiancée! You stole my man!
Qian'e pointed at Qiao Mei and said.
The neighbors standing around could not take it anymore.
218
When did you become Xia Zhe's fiancée!
How shameless! You were previously married, yet you still want to meddle with someone else's wedded bliss!
That's right. You got divorced and still want to become a nuisance to Xia Zhe's family. How shameless!
You liked Xia Zhe so much back then, but in the end, you still went with Ma San! Now that he doesn't want you anymore, you come looking for Xia Zhe again after the divorce.
After Qiao Mei listened to the neighbors around her talking over one another, she understood the whole story even more clearly. So the man who divorced Qian'e was called Ma San.
Look at how beautiful Xia Zhe's wife is. Then look at yourself!
Oh, so this is Xia Zhe's wife from the countryside. She's too beautiful!
That's right. No wonder Xia Zhe got married without telling anyone. If it's me, I will also definitely hold on tightly to someone so beautiful.
What a pity. Xia Zhe's wife! If you have a younger sister, please introduce her to my son.
Hahahahaha, why do you keep thinking about your own family!
The neighbors began to praise Qiao Mei for being beautiful and even wanted to propose marriages for Qiao Mei's sisters. They thought that given Qiao Mei was so beautiful, her female relatives must all be pretty as well.
Moreover, even if they looked down on Qiao Mei's countryside background, she had already married into the Xia family. If their sons married Qiao Mei's relatives, they would be considered a relative of the Xia family in the future.
None of them would want to give up a chance of both having a beautiful daughter-in-law as well as being related to the Xia family.
The more Qian'e listened, the more jealous she became. What was so good about Qiao Mei that everyone would praise her!
The neighbors usually did not talk much about Qian'e. After all, she had lived in the same compound as them since she was young, and everyone had watched her grow up. When she was younger, she had many talents and knew how to dance and play the piano.
Back then, many people praised Qian'e and even wanted to propose an arranged marriage between her and their sons.
Yet, Qian'e was really pitiful now. She not only had an abortion, but she also got divorced. In the future, she would not even be able to get pregnant. It would be difficult for her to marry into a good family in the future, and her reputation was affected as well.
She was originally such a good kid. If Zhao Ni had not insisted that Qian'e get married, it would not have led to the current situation.
Zhao Ni not only did not educate her child well, but she even allowed Qian'e to live in her own fantasies and continue wasting her life away. Now, Qian'e was even becoming a nuisance to Xia Zhe and his family.
Such people were the most infuriating type. When they did not lead a good life, they wanted others to suffer too!
You gossipy women! What has it got to do with you! Are you done dealing with your own family matters! You're spouting nonsense! If you behave like this, you'll all go to hell when you die!
Qian'e pointed at the neighbors standing around and cursed at them.
People did not want to hear the word
die
nowadays. Now that life was good and everyone was starting to enjoy life in their old age, Qian'e actually cursed them to die!
This caused everyone to be unhappy and they all started to reprimand Qian'e.
Beat her up! She actually believes in feudal superstitions!
Go to her unit and report her!
Yes! Report her!
She's absent from work during office hours! Report her and get her laid off!
Fire her!
Qian'e could not withstand everyone's insults and beatings and ran all the way downstairs, almost falling over on the way.
Qiao Mei took the key that Xia Fang had given her, locked the door and followed everyone downstairs. After all, she was still pregnant and it was safer to walk at the back of the crowd.
Otherwise, it would be easy for Qiao Mei to get accidentally injured during any commotion.
After all, everyone was feeling indignant because of Qiao Mei. Being the protagonist, if she closed the door and let everyone stand up for her without being there, all the neighbors would become bitterly disappointed in her.
When they reached the courtyard outside, Zhao Ni was on her way back from buying groceries and saw Qian'e being beaten up. She hurriedly threw away her groceries to one side and went forward to stop them.
What are you doing!
Zhao Ni hurriedly ran over and pointed at everyone.
No one was afraid. Seeing that Zhao Ni had come, they stopped beating up Qian'e and went to reason with Zhao Ni.
Your daughter is superstitious. We're going to report her!
Yes!
She even framed Xia Zhe's family. How shameless!
She also skipped work during office hours! Let's report everything!
Everyone started listing down all the things that they thought Qian'e had done wrong while Qiao Mei listened from the side. In just a short while, there were already more than 10 items to report. It was more than she could count with two hands.
I'm not spouting nonsense! I'm Xia Zhe's girlfriend!
Qian'e shouted.
219
Who are you fooling! Bring out the evidence!
The elderly female neighbor looked at Qian'e mockingly.
Qian'e stopped hiding behind Zhao Ni and stood in front of the elderly female neighbor.
Of course I have evidence!
Upon hearing that Qian'e had evidence to prove that she was Xia Zhe's girlfriend, Qiao Mei immediately became interested. She walked up and asked,
What evidence do you have? Tell us about it.
I have the love letter Xia Zhe wrote to me back then!
Qian'e glared at Qiao Mei and said.
Qiao Mei looked Qian'e in the eyes, with a look of disbelief on her face.
Xia Fang had already said that Xia Zhe clearly told his family that he did not like Qian'e. She believed Xia Fang.
Besides, Qian'e had her engagement broken off and even had an abortion during that time. If Xia Zhe knew about this, he would not behave so indifferently if he had any feelings for her.
Furthermore, when he knew that Qian'e was going to get married, he would have come back to fight for her hand. He could not possibly watch Qian'e suffer like this.
To say that Xia Zhe liked Qian'e? Qiao Mei really did not believe that.
Then show it to me and we'll see if it was written by Xia Zhe,
Qiao Mei said.
Qian'e panicked a little, seeing that this village girl was actually not intimidated by her. Qian'e put on airs and said,
You're a country bumpkin from the countryside. Can you read?
How do you know that I can't read? Even if I really can't read, it can't be that all these people here can't read as well. If you say you have it, then bring it out for us to take a look,
Qiao Mei said, then she smiled and looked at the neighbors around her.
That's right, that's right. All of us can read. Bring it out!
the neighbors echoed.
Don't tell me it's all in your dream. This love letter is engraved in your mind so you can't take it out!
Qiao Mei looked at Qian'e mockingly.
Hahahahahaha!
The neighbors standing around burst out laughing.
You!
Qian'e pointed at Qiao Mei and could not even say a word. She was so angry that her face turned red.
Qian'e did not expect Xia Zhe's new wife to be so sharp-tongued that she could choke people to death with her words. In addition, she did not kick up any fuss either. She could make people speechless with just a few words.
Feeling stressed, Qian'e said anxiously,
The love letter is in my house! It's very precious to me! How can I have it with me everywhere I go!
Then is your house in this compound, and is it far?
Qiao Mei looked at Qian'e and asked her.
For a moment, Qian'e did not know how to answer. Seeing that Qian'e did not say anything for a long time, Qiao Mei looked at the neighbors beside her.
It's in this compound. It's that building!
The elderly female neighbor even pointed it out to Qiao Mei.
That's right, it's just on the third floor. A round trip will only take five minutes!
someone shouted from the crowd.
Alright, you can walk slowly. I'll give you 10 minutes. Go get the letter and we'll all wait for you,
Qiao Mei said with her arms crossed.
Qiao Mei knew that Qian'e would not be able to produce the letter. It was not possible that Xia Zhe could write such a thing to Qian'e. If they really had any feelings for each other, things would have happened long ago. There was no need to wait until now, when everyone was not that young anymore.
Furthermore, with Xia Zhe's stubborn temper, there was no way that he would give up if he really wanted to marry someone. Qian'e definitely did not have any evidence in her hands.
Qian'e stared daggers at Qiao Mei, wishing that she could cut Qiao Mei into pieces.
What's wrong, is 10 minutes not enough? Or is there really no such letter, or are you unable to imitate Xia Zhe's handwriting in these 10 minutes?
Qiao Mei looked at Qian'e curiously.
Exactly!
Looks like she really doesn't have any evidence. She's just bluffing here!
When the neighbors saw how nervous Qian'e looked, they could roughly guess what was going on. If the letter was real, it would not just be Qian'e who would rush home to retrieve it to prove her innocence and that what she usually said was true. Even her mother, Zhao Ni, would have done the same.
Moreover, she would not have waited until now. If she really had received any token of love, she would have produced it and made it public long ago.
I! I just forgot where I put it! I have to look for it! I can definitely give it to you!
Qian'e said as she looked at Qiao Mei.
Oh, didn't you say that Xia Zhe's letter is oh so precious to you? Why aren't you able to find it now?
Qiao Mei pretended to look at Qian'e in confusion.
When Zhao Ni saw how aggressive Qiao Mei was and Qian'e not being able to say anything to refute her, she stood up for her daughter and said,
It's up to you whether you believe it or not! Xiao'e, let's go!
220
Zhao Ni grabbed Qian'e and turned to leave, but there were many neighbors around them and they were surrounded.
Oh, you're intending to leave. If you go back now, you might produce a stack of letters tomorrow. You may even say that Xia Zhe's father wrote to you.
Qiao Mei sighed and continued,
Who knows if you've hidden away Xia Zhe's notebook and you may even be able to imitate his handwriting. Since you missed him so much, you must have stared at his things while thinking of him all these years.
Qian'e did not say a word given that Qiao Mei had hit the nail on the head. Even Zhao Ni looked a little embarrassed. Zhao Ni was the one who usually cleaned the rooms at home and she had previously spotted Xia Zhe's notebook with Qian'e. Furthermore, there were several notebooks, not just one, and Qian'e also possessed Xia Zhe's used stationery.
Qiao Mei could roughly guess what Qian'e was thinking just by looking at her. After all, she used to be a lawyer and had seen many instances of handwriting being imitated. Although technology was not that advanced during this period of time, with a lot of practice and hard work, it was still possible for two sets of handwriting from two different people to look almost indistinguishable.
How did this child end up like this!
an old granny in the crowd said regretfully.
How can you do this!
You really have a lot of tricks up your sleeves. How did you become so evil!
Sigh, the old Xiao'e used to be so nice. Look at her now…
Qian'e could hear all kinds of voices in the crowd talking about her. She was already used to everyone scolding her, but now there were actually people who felt sorry for her.
Most of the people in the crowd who felt sorry for Qian'e were the old people who had watched her grow up. They felt that the current Qian'e was the victim of circumstances,and it was fate that had played tricks on her.
You think she's pitiful! Then aren't Xia Zhe and his wife pitiful? What if Xia Zhe's superiors hear the rumors and feel that there's something wrong with Xia Zhe's character! Then Xia Zhe's career will be ruined!
an old man with a walking stick shouted angrily from within the crowd.
After he spoke, everyone fell into deep thought. Compared to Qian'e, they felt that Xia Zhe was the child who showed the most promise in this compound. If Xia Zhe could not become a soldier or get promoted because of all this gossip, it would really be too much.
That's right! It's really not easy for Xia Zhe! It's only because Xia Zhe's wife is highly principled and keeps an eye on the big picture that she doesn't bother to argue with you! Who do you think you are! You're still talking nonsense here!
the elderly female neighbor spat on the ground angrily and said to Qian'e.
Qiao Mei smiled happily when she saw that everyone showed so much care and concern for Xia Zhe.
Her sweet smile made people feel happy when they saw it. Everyone had always liked Xia Zhe very much, and everyone now extended their affection to his wife.
Qiao Mei felt a little tired after standing for a long time. She had not rested for the entire day and she rubbed her waist to try to ease the soreness.
Oh! Xia Zhe's wife! Are you pregnant!
the elderly female neighbor said in surprise.
This compound was full of doctors and it was easy for them to tell at a glance if she was really pregnant. Previously, they had all been staring at Qian'e and so they did not observe Qiao Mei closely.
When she first arrived, she was dressed simply and was covered in dust and dirt, so no one paid much attention to her. Now that she was wearing an elegant maternity dress, they could see the obvious bulge at Qiao Mei's stomach.
Qiao Mei blushed and nodded in embarrassment. The anger on everyone's faces quickly disappeared. This was joyous news!
Qiao Mei touched her stomach and said,
It's probably about three months.
How nice!
The neighbors looked at Qiao Mei with big smiles.
When Qian'e heard that Qiao Mei was pregnant, she said furiously,
You're pregnant!!!
Qiao Mei subconsciously took a step back. Looking at how Qian'e was almost going crazy, it seemed that Qian'e really had a psychological problem.
Everyone purposefully stood in front of Qiao Mei to protect her. They were concerned that Qian'e would go crazy and wanted to fight it out with Qiao Mei. If anything should happen, none of them would be able to bear the responsibility.
Zhao Ni's face was also filled with disbelief. She looked at Qiao Mei mockingly and said,
Don't tell me you used some despicable trick on Xia Zhe to get yourself pregnant!
When Qian'e heard what Zhao Ni said, her eyes lit up.