Chapter 21.1

The weather was not too hot, and Su Xiaoxiao plans to eat half of the small ribs she bought at noon. Zhou Yuhua brought over a bunch of tomatoes, it's the perfect ingredient to make sweet and sour ribs, aside from that, these kinds of dishes are what the children like very much. For the other half, she wants to marinate it with garlic and cook garlic-flavored ribs in the evening.

Originally, sweet and sour ribs were delicious only when they were cooked in oil, but now, there is no such condition. Just like what she previously said, the ingredients at this time are of good quality; they will always be delicious no matter how they are cooked.

Su Xiaoxiao made a simple version without even frying. The ribs were blanched in water. The tomato was chopped and mixed with soy sauce, sugar, salt, and vinegar to make a sweet and sour sauce with a moderate taste. The ribs were put into a pot to stew together. Then a pot of rice was braised in the nearby pot, and the steam rack and plate were put on. Two eggplants and potatoes were put inside, while the garlic sauce was put on the side for later use, and when Han Cheng arrives, she can directly cook it all together so that it remains hot when he arrives.

The two brothers like to walk around Su Xiaoxiao. Fantuan is a very capable little helper, he helps Su Xiaoxiao set the fire and wash vegetables. Xiao Doubao, on the other hand, had his eyes glued on Su Xiaoxiao. Whenever Su Xiaoxiao turns around, she always sees a pair of beautiful, bright eyes staring at her.

The two cubs are really cute.

Military hospital.

Han Cheng has just finished an operation, so he sorted out the report in hand and handed it to his assistant.

Han Cheng in a military uniform has his awe-inspiring uprightness and boldness. The military doctor, who was trained by an orthodox military academy, and received orthodox training, is an excellent soldier himself. Han Cheng in a white coat has a cold sense of abstinence. Two distinct and completely different temperaments are placed on him, but these two temperaments didn't collide at all.

It is no wonder that even though he is a widower and still has two children with him, female comrades from both the migrant workers' group and the hospital still wanted to marry him.

Doctor Chen came to him excitedly: "Director Han, Director Han! I have something to say! Your wife is really good!"

Han Cheng raised his hand and pinched his tired eyebrows. He stared at him blankly and said, "Xiaoxiao? Have you seen her? Did something happen to my wife?"

"So, your wife's name is Xiaoxiao? No wonder she always smiles, just like her name." Doctor Chen gave a thumbs-up and told me what he had seen in the vegetable market this morning.

Finally, he said, "When a scholar meets a soldier, the scholar with an argument to make doesn't stand a chance. But if a soldier met a shrew, he had no choice but to run away. However, your wife defeated Yang Tao's mother without shedding a drop of blood."

Doctor Chen made a gesture and said, "Tsk, your wife has become famous after the first battle. Now, no one in the whole military region does not know her. The key is that she is good-looking, small, and exquisite. The children are also taught well by her. She even has a very gentle voice and loves to laugh. If I look for a wife, I will look for a wife like…"

"Cough, cough, cough… the bell for Ward No. 3 is ringing, Dr. Chen, go check it out."A doctor nearby interrupted Doctor Chen.

What's wrong with you? Can an unmarried man, constantly praise someone else's wife for her good looks, good figure, and smile? Can't he see that Director Han's face was almost black and about to turn into charcoal?! I dare you to say it again!

Doctor Chen might have realized that he may have said too much, but he also wants to ask Director Han's wife if she has any sisters who are similar to her. She can also introduce her cousin to him.

Unfortunately, he was dragged away by the doctor before he could even ask.

Han Cheng pulled the wind clasp on his shirt and somehow thought of Su Xiaoxiao's gentleness when she helped him untie the wind clasp, and the faint pear vortex on her cheeks when she smiled

Han Cheng is a little annoyed. 'What's the matter with these people? Why are they staring at his wife one by one?'

Han Cheng thought of the scene where his wife was going to the market with the two children. I'm not sure if she can carry all of the things with her thin arms and legs. I'd better buy the food with her early tomorrow.

After he got off work, Han Cheng asked about the chicks that Fantuan wanted. He used the food stamps to trade with the chicks, and they promised to send them to him this afternoon. However, the number was small, he could only bring home four chicks. At this time, there was a limit on the number of chickens per house you can raise, and four were enough.

Han Cheng thanked him, put on his usual military uniform, and went to the bamboo forest, which is located on the mountain behind the hospital, to cut some bamboo to take home.

It's still early for Su Xiaoxiao to get ready for lunch.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the golden persimmons in the trees. She thought of the live broadcast she watched about persimmons in her previous life. and remembered buying persimmons after watching it.

"Fantuan, Xiao Doubao, shall we pick persimmons and make them into persimmon cakes?"

"Mom, what are persimmon cakes?" Persimmons only bear fruit in the past two years, and Fantuan has never eaten them.

"It means we pick the persimmons, let them dry, and make them into cakes. "They're sweet, glutinous, and very tasty, but they're a little sticky."Su Xiaoxiao drooled at the thought of the sweet and glutinous taste. She had never felt this greedy.

Su Xiaoxiao then did what she had in mind. The persimmon tree is young and not very tall. She can pick it up just by moving a stool and standing on it.

Su Xiaoxiao stood on the stool with an old bag of Han Cheng on her back. The floor is not very smooth, and the stool would shake from time to time.

Fantuan was afraid that Su Xiaoxiao would collapse, as had happened to him as a child.

"Mom, be careful!"

"Thank you for reminding me, Fantuan." Su Xiaoxiao jumped off the stool and continued to pick it up on the flat surface.

Su Xiaoxiao quickly harvested a large bag of persimmons, and after she had picked up enough, she went down and poured the persimmons onto the stone foundation on one side. She said to the two brothers, "Eat the persimmons after dinner, or you won't be able to eat ribs when dinner comes."

The two brothers didn't eat. They just watched Su Xiaoxiao pick persimmons.

Su Xiaoxiao picked up six bags, and she was so tired that she didn't have the energy to reach out her hands to pick up the rest.

"Let's pick up the remaining persimmons after your dad comes home."

After Su Xiaoxiao said this, Fantuan, who had sharp eyes, saw his father coming back from afar with a pile of bamboo:

"Dad, come and help Mom pick persimmons!"

Su Xiaoxiao, who was wiping the sweat on her forehead, saw Han Cheng coming back, her eyes bent, and a shallow pear vortex rippled: "Han Cheng, are you back? Did you have a hard time today?"

Han Cheng, who has been in an operating station for nearly three hours, is now exhausted.

His newlywed wife, Su Xiaoxiao, is smiling, while his eldest son is prancing in high spirits. The younger one sat by and quietly played with the persimmons in his arms. The background was golden persimmons, with blue sky and white clouds hanging high above his head.

This is the peaceful life that Han Cheng always dreamed of.

As the warmth flowed through his heart, Han Cheng put down the bamboo and shook his head. "It's not hard. Are you going to give away all the persimmons after you have picked them?"

Su Xiaoxiao shook her head and said, "No, I'm going to make persimmon cakes. I'm going to peel off the persimmon skin, the sun dries it, and pinch it to make a very delicious persimmon cake. In the spring, a layer of white frosted sugar will form on the dried persimmon, and it will taste the best when they are left in the sun."

Just listening to Su Xiaoxiao talk about it made Fantuan greedy. "Mom, let's make persimmon cakes quickly. I want to eat persimmons with frosty sugar!"

Su Xiaoxiao: "Persimmons can be made slowly. Now let's eat first. Comrade Fantuan, your task now is to take your brother to wash his hands and prepare for dinner!"

Fantuan gave a military salute, "I received my mother's task, I promise to complete the task!"

Fantuan turned around to pull his brother: "Doubao, it's time to eat, go wash your hands with your brother."

Han Cheng remembered Doctor Chen's words and wanted to ask something, but he took them back when the words were about to come out of his mouth.

Su Xiaoxiao pulled Han Cheng's sleeve, "Comrade Han Cheng, what are you doing in a daze? Go wash your hands and help me cook."

Han Cheng stared at his wife and said sincerely, "You taught them well."

When he saw Xiaobao, he thought that Su Xiaoxiao would be able to teach his children as well as Xiaobao. The facts have proven that he has a good eye.

Su Xiaoxiao stood on tiptoe to tidy up Han Cheng's collar. Seeing that he was finally willing to unfasten the button, she said with a smile, "They are very good kids. Go wash your hands first, and I'll tell you something later."

Han Cheng went into the kitchen to help Su Xiaoxiao after washing his hands, and Su Xiaoxiao cooked the ribs until they softened.

Han Cheng opened the rice pot and saw potatoes and eggplant steaming in it. He was a bit confused about this combination.

Su Xiaoxiao saw him standing still and reminded him: "Take out the potatoes and eggplants and mash them but don't smash them too much. Just the right size for Xiao Doubao to eat them in one bite."

Han Cheng did not ask why and just did what Su Xiaoxiao said.

Su Xiaoxiao went over and tucked his sleeve up.

When he smelled a familiar fragrance, Han Cheng paused for a second and continued to act as if nothing had happened.

Two cubs came in to help after washing their hands. Su Xiaoxiao asked them to sit at the table and wait.

Su Xiaoxiao talked about meeting Yangtao's mother in the market this morning.

Before he came back, he heard about it from Doctor Chen. Han Cheng had a frown on his face. In fact, he didn't have much contact with the relatives of Yangmei's parents. Yangmei's parents were very good, and they were all highly knowledgeable. Two years ago, because they were implicated in the movement, they voluntarily asked to be transferred to the farm. At present, Yangmei's parents and older brother are all on the farm.

Later, something happened to Yangmei, and after Han Cheng gave them all her pension, they took the initiative to cut off contact with Han Cheng.

Han Cheng understood what they meant. It was probably because they didn't want Fantuan and Doubao to be involved in anything. After all, people are scared now, but Han Cheng still secretly asked people to send something to them every New Year. In that kind of place, supplies are more difficult to obtain than money, and Yangmei's pension is enough for them to use for a long time.

Yangmei's cousins' bunch of hopeless people. They occasionally come to take advantage of Yangmeo and ask her to do things for them.

Han Cheng also turned a blind eye to it and didn't pay much attention to them. However, now and then, Yangmei would blame him for not introducing Yangtao to other military doctors in the hospital. She often quarrels with him about the matters of Yangtao's mother, saying that Yangtao's mother is the only elder and family she has in this town. Han Cheng, however, didn't care about these trivial things, which often made it even messier.

Han Cheng goes out early and comes back late. Even though they work in the same building, they seldom see each other during the day. especially after Yang Tao started to come and help them take care of the children. He doesn't like the way Yang Tao looks at him, and this made him not want to go home even more. Sometimes he simply rests in the army dormitory at night and goes home less and less. He wants his son to come back. He would only come back when he missed his sons.

Indeed, he failed as a father and a husband.

He likes his current life very much, and he is very worried that the relatives of Yangmei's natal family will break this hard-won peaceful life.

But obviously, Su Xiaoxiao will not be affected by these things. It seems that all the troubles will be solved automatically when they come to her. She quietly handles these things well.

"I don't know how your relationship with them is, but it's better to have less contact with those relatives. I know that many people would rather harm themselves to maintain a good relationship with these 'excellent' relatives because they are afraid of people talking behind their backs. But, Han Cheng, I will not associate with people I despise."

Han Cheng knew that Su Xiaoxiao was actually easy to get along with and to hate someone like her, you can guess what the other party's character would be.

"I know. Do what makes you comfortable. We can just live a happy life without caring about others. Next time, if the Yangtao dares to make trouble, just close the door and don't let her in."

Pfft.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled, " She couldn't help but be scared. She probably won't come back in a short time, unless the scar is healed and the pain is forgotten. Fantuan is also a tiger, he even dared throw a stone at her."

Han Cheng: "Fantuan didn't like them much before. He used to be naughtier, but he is much better now."

Su Xiaoxiao took out a small bowl of potatoes and eggplants, mixed them with salt and peanut oil, and gave them to Doubao alone.

For the rest, she poured the garlic and vinegar juice in it, sprinkled a little green onion on top, added sweet and sour pork chops, and served a bowl of white rice. It's another round of meals.

"Mom, the food you cooked is delicious. I declare that the sweet and sour pork chops were the best dish you ever made! Everything you do is delicious, even potatoes and eggplants are delicious. Are you a fairy?" Fantuan rubbed his round belly. He liked the sweet and sour pork chops and the potatoes and eggplants.

"Yesterday, you said that the stewed pork sausage was the best." Su Xiaoxiao is worried that he is too full, so she asked him to get up and take a walk.

Fantuan circled around the table, saying, "Then, they are equal! Both of them ranked first!"

Han Cheng also agreed. When her hands touched something ordinary, it became extraordinary. They are so delicious that people can't stop eating them. The potatoes and eggplants are without meat, but it still tastes good.

Han Cheng has just finished this meal, and has already begun to look forward to what to eat next. He also understood more clearly why Su Xiaoxiao asked him at the beginning if there would be meat in every meal. Yes… There is nothing better than a family sitting together, and happily eating meat. Han Cheng even started to feel that the previous days had been wasted.

After dinner, Su Xiaoxiao went to wash the dishes and clean the kitchen.

On the other side, Han Cheng picked all the persimmons that Su Xiaoxiao could not reach and planned to make a fence.

Su Xiaoxiao shook her head as she glanced at Han Cheng's busy back. This man is still working hard in the afternoon, and he doesn't worry about his health.

"Attention, I'm going to announce the tasks. Comrade Han Cheng and Comrade Fantuan, you two go in and have a nap!"

Xiao Doubao went to bed soon after he had eaten enough, however, the two seemed like they did not intend to sleep.

Fantuan gave a military salute: "Aye aye Mom, Fantuan has received your order and will execute it immediately!"

Then he ran back to his room to sleep.

Han Cheng didn't even stop his movements. "I'll quickly finish this. By the way, someone will send four chicks here in the afternoon. You can take them right away."

Su Xiaoxiao walked over and took his hand. "Don't worry. You can do this after work. Your job requires a high level of concentration, and you have to be in the best condition at all times. Come on, let's go inside and sleep."

Su Xiaoxiao was almost misled by the word "soldier" when matchmaker Xu introduced Han Cheng to them on the blind date. She really thought he was a battalion commander or regimental commander, but unexpectedly, he was a military doctor.

But in fact, his being a "soldier" was somewhat true. She was just narrow-minded. The standardized training of soldiers from orthodox military schools is the same. Aside from having a military rank and wearing a military uniform, they also receive missions and feel a sense of responsibility as doctors. At first sight, she felt that his temperament was particularly unique. It is no wonder that he was a man of all abilities.

Han Cheng could not resist her, so he had to put down the things in his hands and wash his hands to go back to the room for a nap.

When Han Cheng noticed she was still going to the children's room, he paused and said, "Then you…"

Su Xiaoxiao pointed to the guest room on the other side, saying, "After the political investigation is complete, we will get our marriage certificate, and then pick up the room opposite to be our wedding room."

The size and pattern of the four rooms are basically the same, but Su Xiaoxiao prefers the southeast-facing guest room opposite. After the marriage certificate is issued, they can buy a cabinet and a new quilt.

Han Cheng breathed a sigh of relief, and his expression was also relaxed. He didn't know how to ask Su Xiaoxiao to sleep in the same room with him. She is his own wife, and it was impossible for the children to keep occupying her.

The men of this era are very introverted. In the 21st century, this is what they called mensao. [1] Su Xiaoxiao can't help but stand on tiptoe, kiss his handsome face, and gently push him afterward, "Go to sleep. I will come and wake you up at 1:45 to go back to work."

Su Xiaoxiao's lips are as soft as feathers. Han Cheng tightened his muscles, made a fist, and released them.

He is not Liu Xiahui, He is a young man fool of vigor. It is impossible for him to not have any idea about his wife. It seems like he has to go and urge the commissar to speed up the political investigation in the afternoon. [2]

References

↑1 Outwardly cold or retiring, but deep and passionate inside.

↑2 Lui Xiahui was a man of eminent virtue, and is said on one occasion to have had a lady in his lap without the slightest imputation on his moral character.

Chapter 21.2

After the afternoon nap, Han Cheng returned to the army on time to work. Su Xiaoxiao started peeling the persimmon. This was a big mission, and the two cubs wanted to help. Su Xiaoxiao dared not let them touch the knife. She cut one for the two brothers to eat separately and also ate one for herself.

The taste was very refreshing.

Instead of letting them help her with the hard work, Su Xiaoxiao asked Fantuan to teach Xiao Doubao how to count persimmons.

"Doubao, look, this is a persimmon, a yellow persimmon." Fantuan, a patient brother, arranged the persimmons in a row, "One persimmon, two persimmons, three persimmons, four persimmons…"

Xiao Doubao didn't listen to him. He "slapped" the persimmons away and ran to Su Xiaoxiao. He reached out his hands for the knife in Su Xiaoxiao's hand.

Su Xiaoxiao dodged him. "Baby, be obedient. Children can't touch this. Your hands will bleed if you touch this."

Su Xiaoxiao held Doubao's hand with her other hand. "If this hand is wounded, you won't be able to eat by yourself for a long time."

Xiao Doubao was also quick at learning things. Now, he can hold a spoon firmly in one hand. He ate the potatoes and eggplants at noon with a small spoon all by himself.

Xiao Doubao withdrew his hand and stayed close to Su Xiaoxiao. With his big black eyes, he stared at Su Xiaoxiao, who was peeling persimmons.

Fantuan went to hold him. He was not angry, but stayed quietly with his brother and let his little brother watch him count persimmons from one to ten.

"Fantuan can count to ten? Do you know what comes after ten?" Su Xiaoxiao is actually surprised that Fantuan has a strong understanding and language organization ability, as well as good logical thinking. Sometimes even adults are stunned by his words. However, he can't count, and he can only count up to ten.

Fantuan shook his head. "No, my mother only taught me how to count to ten."

"Did your father not teach you?" Su Xiaoxiao asked again.

Fantuan continued to shake his head. "He used to be very busy and rarely went home. Sometimes he had to go far away with Uncle Zhao, for a long time."

Su Xiaoxiao became silent for a while.

Fantuan said that he went far away with his Uncle Zhao. Maybe it was when there was a war. Han Cheng went to the battlefield with the army and came back after a long time. No wonder the child suffered so much from Zhou Cuihua and only found out about their situation after a year.

"Then, Mom will teach Fantuan how to count after ten?" Su Xiaoxiao thought that such a smart child needed to be enlightened.

Fantuan's big black eyes sparkled, "Yes, yes."

Su Xiaoxiao has arranged two rows of persimmons, ten in one row. "It is very simple. The first row is one to ten, and the second row is eleven, the second row is twelve, and the third row is thirteen…"

Fantuan raised his hand and said, "I know, Mom, that this one below the four is fourteen, and that one below the five is fifteen. I only have to add ten, right?"

Su Xiaoxiao applauded and said, "Oh, our Fantuan is so smart. Yes, after ten, it will be twenty, and then we will go to the third row…"

Fantuan quickly helped Su Xiaoxiao arrange persimmons. Fantuan pointed at the third row of persimmons and said, "That's twenty-one, twenty-two, twenty-three, twenty-four…"

Fantuan counted up to thirty, then he lined up another row. He pointed to the fourth row of persimmons and said, "This is 31, 32, 33, 34…"

By similarity, he quickly lined up the persimmons on the ground and accurately counted up to 98.

He asked Su Xiaoxiao excitedly, "Mom, there are 98 persimmons in total, right?"

Su Xiaoxiao has to say that this child is really quick to learn and smart!

Su Xiaoxiao gave him a thumbs up and said, "Yes, there are 98 persimmons in our family that haven't been peeled yet. Our Fantuan has counted them all. Our Fantuan is great!"

Fantuan happily clapped and ran in circles around the yard.

Su Xiaoxiao said, "After tens, there will be a hundred. One hundred one, one hundred two, up to nine hundred ninety-nine. After hundreds, it will be thousands; all of them will follow the same rule, but we don't have that many persimmons in our family. Fantuan is still young. We will learn how to count up to 100 first, and we will continue to learn when you grow up. Mom will buy you pens and notebooks tomorrow, and then teach you to write these numbers and your name."

Fantuan was so happy that he jumped straight up and said, "Yes, I want to learn how to write and write my name! I also want to write my brother's, father's, and mother's names!"

Speaking of this, Su Xiaoxiao suddenly remembered that she doesn't know what Fantuan and Doubao's real names are!

"Fantuan, what's your and Doubao's real name?" Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Fantuan scratched his head and thought for a moment. After all, no one has called him by his real name for a long time. "My name is Han Jing, and my brother is Han Kang. My grandfather named me."

Oh, Jingkang's humiliation, Su Xiaoxiao suddenly realized.

The name chosen by the Gaozhi family is different from the popular names, but I don't know if it has anything to do with Great Xia Jin.

"Your name has a lot of strokes, which may be a little difficult to write. Let's take our time, learn the simple ones first, and learn to write numbers tomorrow, OK?" Su Xiaoxiao discussed this with Fantuan.

Fantuan kept nodding, "Mm-hmm…" Anyway, in Fantuan's eyes, everything his mother said was right.

At this time, someone outside the door shouted, "Fantuan, Han Cheng's wife, are you at home?"

Su Xiaoxiao and Fantuan looked at each other.

Fantuan shook his head, he didn't recognize who it was.

"Yes, just a moment." Su Xiaoxiao got up and opened the door.

"You are Han Cheng's wife, right? Oh, you look so pretty. No wonder he doesn't like the female comrade whom my old lady introduced to him."

It was a kind-looking aunt in her fifties who was holding a small cage containing several fluffy chicks.

Su Xiaoxiao remembered that it was Han Cheng who sent the chicks.

"Hello aunt, just call me Xiaoxiao." Su Xiaoxiao welcomed people to the door.

Aunt Zhang is a very cheerful aunt. She said with a smile, "My family name is Zhang, and my son is also in the military hospital. He said that Fantuan wanted to raise chicks, so I sent them to you. He said that Director Han asked me to choose a few mother hens. Isn't this too difficult for me? How can I tell whether such a small chick is a male or a female? Anyway, you should keep it first. One of the four chicks is a female. You can just go to my house to change one when they are older."

Su Xiaoxiao also smiled and reached out to take it. "It doesn't matter. Thank you so much, Aunt Zhang."

Fantuan couldn't wait and ran over, saying, "Mom, show me the little chicken!"

Su Xiaoxiao put down the cage on the ground.

Xiao Doubao also ran over and tripped on his left with his right foot. His balance became unstable. He fell with his butt on the ground, and his expression was confused.

Su Xiaoxiao would let him get up on his own at ordinary times. Not now, she is worried that when he fell, it implicated his injured hand.

She went to help him up and slapped the dust on his buttocks.

Xiao Doubao nodded and said, "Hmm".

Su Xiaoxiao put him down and said, "Walk slowly to your brother and look at the chicks."

Xiao Doubao walked slowly, step by step, this time before squatting down to watch the chicks with his brother.

Aunt Zhang was secretly surprised, she thought that it was difficult to be a stepmother, but when she looked at Su Xiaoxiao, she thought it was not difficult for her at all, the two children listened to her very much.

"Xiaoxiao, these two children in your family are really good. Those two in our family are like monkeys. They are very naughty. They don't go back to the house for three days to uncover tiles, and they make a scene every day."

Su Xiaoxiao was very proud of these two cubs. "They are obedient."

Clever and well-behaved.

After all, Aunt Zhang was not familiar with Su Xiaoxiao, and it was hard to say anything. Su Xiaoxiao was very enthusiastic and asked Fantuan to release the chicks, then filled the cage full of persimmons before returning them to Aunt Zhang.

Auntie Zhang refused, "Why? The chicks are not free. Head Han exchanged food stamps for the chicks."

Su Xiaoxiao pushed it to her and said, "This is the fruit that grew from our tree. Take it back and give it to your children. Let them come visit our Fantuan when they have time."

In this era, fruits are precious things, and money may not be able to buy them. When she came in and saw persimmons everywhere in the room. She thought Su Xiaoxiao would only give her two at most. Unexpectedly, she filled the cage for her. She was embarrassed to take so many.

"Your children may also want to eat this."

Su Xiaoxiao pointed to the ground and said, "There is still a lot to eat for a long time. After the little hens lay eggs, I don't know how to hatch the chicks. I have to trouble you."

Auntie Zhang smiled and felt relieved. "What's the trouble? In this town, I dare say that no one dares to say first when it comes to chicken farming. Don't worry. Anyway, I have to go back to cook dinner for the children. If you have any problems with chicken farming in the future, just let Fantuan come to me."

Su Xiaoxiao: "I'll thank Aunt Zhang first. Fantuan, Doubao, say goodbye to Aunt Zhang."

Fantuan took his younger brother up and waved to Aunt Zhang. He also grabbed Xiao Doubao's little hands and made them wave, "Goodbye Aunt Zhang."

Aunt Zhang laughed so much that she couldn't see her eyes. "Goodbye, goodbye. Such cute little children. When I have time, I'll bring Dundun with me."

It's almost five o'clock when they see Aunt Zhang off. The persimmons can't be peeled today. Su Xiaoxiao has to prepare dinner, so she took the peeled persimmons to the wall to dry. Fantuan and Doubao picked up the peeled persimmons and put them on the stone bench.

The two brothers were attracted by the fluffy and golden little chicks, it was their first time seeing chicks. They did not receive the task from Su Xiaoxiao, so they squatted there, refusing to move.

Fantuan touched the chicks and asked Su Xiaoxiao, "Mom, they are beautiful. Are they the same as the ugly duckling you told us?"

Su Xiaoxiao went over and squatted down, grabbed one, put it on the palm of Fantuan, and shook her head. "The fur is the same, the eye color is the same, but the beak is different, the duckling's beak is flat because it has to paddle and swim, and the claws are sealed up here, like a small fan to block the current."

"Oh." Fantuan nodded to show that he understood.

Su Xiaoxiao followed, saying, "If you can't help Mom pick up persimmons, go to the vegetable patch and dig around to see if there are any little earthworms and if there are, dig up a few to feed the chicks."

"Okay Mom, I'll dig small earthworms to feed the chickens." Fantuan ran away after he finished talking.

He ran to the vegetable field and dug the soil with both hands.

Su Xiaoxiao cut off the bamboo brought back by Han Cheng and squatted down to demonstrate, "Dig like this, don't dig with your hands. There is a saying that 'If you want to do well in your work, you must first use your tools.' That is to say, to do well in one thing, we should use the best and most appropriate tools as much as possible, so that you can get twice the result with half the effort, and try not to make yourself so dirty. Mom will have a hard time doing the laundry."

Fantuan seemed to understand some parts of it. So, he needs to use tools, and he should not dirty his clothes with his hands. "Yes, Mom, copy!"

Su Xiaoxiao rubbed the little guy's head. There is nothing wrong with teaching a precocious child a little earlier. Well, it doesn't matter how much he can absorb for now. He can always benefit from it in the future.

Xiao Doubao, on the other hand, is Su Xiaoxiao's little tail. He didn't help his brother dig up earthworms, but he helped Su Xiaoxiao pick up persimmons. He can only hold one at a time. He didn't feel bored after running back and forth so many times.

Su Xiaoxiao likes him so much that she picked him up and kissed him twice. She let him pick up the last ten or so items and went to prepare dinner.

The benefits of the courtyard bungalow can be seen at this time, and it is especially fun to raise children in this place.

The dinner was also simple. The garlic-flavored ribs were pickled in advance and steamed in a pot. Su Xiaoxiao was too lazy to start cooking. Su Xiaoxiao took a pumpkin from the vegetables sent by Zhou Yuhua, did not peel it, cut it into a gourd, and put it on another plate. She used chopsticks to divide it into two layers and put it on top of the ribs. Then she took a steam rack and put it on top of the rice to steam.

In this way, as long as you cook the pot, you can have rice, meat, and vegetables. Healthy and nutritious.

Su Xiaoxiao has not drunk soup since she went to this era. She thought that since autumn is approaching, she should cook more soup for everyone to replenish their health.

When it is colder, she can also make dumplings and steamed stuffed buns, so that they can eat a hot breakfast, which is also convenient.

But the top priority is to plant in their vegetable garden and pick the vegetables you want immediately. It takes less than half an hour from picking up to eating. How delicious it would be.

But this…. Like hatching chickens, this touched Su Xiaoxiao's blind area of knowledge. She has never touched the land in her previous life. At most, she raised many kinds of meat and flowers on the balcony. She never planted anything besides that. The original owner has never been to the ground, and she doesn't know whether Han Cheng knows how to grow vegetables. Su Xiaoxiao couldn't help but feel sad when she thought about it.

Su Xiaoxiao is still thinking about what to grow in her vegetable garden. Suddenly, Fantuan cried out: "Mom, come here, someone is stealing our persimmons!"

Su Xiaoxiao came out of the kitchen and saw Fantuan throwing stones at the wall full of persimmons. He probably hit a child. The cries of the children and the swearing of adults came from the wall….

Su Xiaoxiao, who had just taught Fantuan in the morning to use words and not his hands to convince others, and could no longer throw stones at people, kept breathing deeply and hypnotized herself. "I am a kind mother. Fantuan is still young, and even a good child could cause trouble." This world is indeed full of chaos and bustle.

Chapter 22.1

After Fantuan threw stones, he saw Su Xiaoxiao, who always had a smile on her face, come out of the kitchen with her lips pursed. Seeing his mother's face, he suddenly remembered something. He looked a little flustered and consciously stood in the corner: "Mom, I was wrong. I shouldn't have thrown the stones. I didn't mean to… I just couldn't remember it all at once!"

Fantuan's eyes were red, he looked like he was about to cry. Su Xiaoxiao's heart softened.

No matter how smart Fantuan is, in the end, he's still a five-year-old boy. Besides, one year of his life was wasted on Zhou Cuihua. Strictly speaking, his behavior and common sense were similar to those of a three- or four-year-old boy.

Su Xiaoxiao stretched out her hand. "Come here, Mom will talk to you later. Let's go out and see what's going on."

The woman at the door had already kicked the door out of their yard.

"Come out! Come out of your house!"

Su Xiaoxiao led Fantuan out, and a well-dressed, woman stood at the gate of their yard with a cold face.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at her, and the woman also looked at Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao was still wearing the patched clothes she brought from Sujia Village. She didn't have the time to buy new clothes.

Although the woman didn't show it clearly, when she looked at Su Xiaoxiao, her expression became somewhat disgusted.

"My family name is Cheng, and I'm a teacher in the primary school of the military region. You are Director Han's newlywed wife, right? Did you even teach anything to your stepson? As a stepmother, you can't be so indifferent to your stepchildren. He almost broke my son's head."

Su Xiaoxiao felt wronged. People always say that stepmothers wouldn't teach their stepsons and that stepmothers would never be as good as the biological mother. But for her, the moment she accepted Fantuan and Doubao, she regarded them as her own in her heart. How dare this woman say that she didn't care about them?!

These words hit Su Xiaoxiao's back.

No matter how annoyed Su Xiaoxiao was, her expression and voice remained gentle. She fought back softly, "You are Teacher Cheng, right? I'm not as good at raising sons as you are. My son won't steal other people's things. My son was wrong for doing that, however, why don't you ask what your son did first?"

Cheng Lifang's husband is a battalion commander, while she has a junior high school education and teaches preschool Chinese in the primary school of the military region. Naturally, she is eloquent, "The child only craved for the persimmon, so he picked it up, how was it called stealing? In the past, when Dr. Yang was there, a child passed by a persimmon tree and took one, and ate it. Doctor Yang said nothing. How come it became stealing when it comes to you? This comrade, it's wrong for you to teach the child this way. It's a grave mistake for a child to act that way at such a young age. If you don't educate him well, we won't dare to accept him in our elementary school in the future, and who is to blame if he hurts other people's children?"

What's this? Su Xiaoxiao laughed angrily. "If my son beats someone for no reason, I will be the first one who will educate him! Comrade, who doesn't educate her son? These persimmons and the persimmon trees belong to us. If your son wants to eat persimmons, he can come in and ask us for them. If he doesn't ask for them, it will be regarded as stealing. As the saying goes, "Steal needles when they are small, steal gold when they are big. " Do you have to wait until you get arrested before you can call it stealing?"

When Chen Lifang saw Su Xiaoxiao dressed in rags, she thought that she looked like she had just come out of the country and had never seen the world before. How can a country girl's family situation be better if she is someone else's stepmother? It makes no difference whether she went to school or not. Unexpectedly, she was so eloquent that I did not lose to her. Chen Lifang originally planned to ask Su Xiaoxiao to apologize and give her a few persimmons as compensation, however, she never thought that Su Xiaoxiao wouldn't apologize to her.

Chen Lifang glared at her. "Then do your words mean that you won't let your son apologize to my son?"

Su Xiaoxiao smiled and remained good-natured as she said: "It's wrong for my son to throw stones at people, but there is a reason for it. When I arrive at the police station, I will say the same thing. Let your son apologize to my son first, admit that it's wrong for him to steal things, and then after that, my son will apologize to your son and admit that it's wrong for him to throw stones at your son. Then the two children must shake hands and make peace. What do you think?"

Cheng Lifang laughed in anger. There was a large population in the town. But in recent years, the college entrance examination was canceled, and most of the intellectuals went to the countryside. Most of the innocent people were farmers. There were few people with junior high school degrees. Not many people like Cheng Lifang, who graduated from junior high school and could speak and teach, were able to teach and educate people. This is the first time she has encountered such a soft nail as Su Xiaoxiao.

"Was it reasonable for your son to beat people?"

"Who hit someone?" Han Cheng just heard what Cheng Lifang said when he came back from work.

Fantuan hid in Su Xiaoxiao's arms. The five-year-old Fantuan suddenly remembered that when he was a three-year-old Fantuan, he once smashed a hole in the head of an elementary school student who bullied his little brother and was locked up by his father in the toilet for a long time when he came home and was not allowed to eat.

Su Xiaoxiao patted Fantuan's head to comfort him, but she hasn't spoken yet, and Cheng Lifang can't wait to say: "Head Han, you came back just at the right time. Your son hit my son's head with a stone. Look at this. It is swollen. Can you find a reliable stepmother for your son? She doesn't know what she's doing. She just covers up your son and refuses to apologize. Originally, it was a trivial matter. If she had said sorry, then the matter is over, but she was not reconciled. Although she is just a stepmother, she shouldn't teach her son bad things. Of course, it's easy to pamper a child, but if you overdo it, you can make a bigger mistake later. "

When Cheng Lifang said that, she looked at Su Xiaoxiao with a look of "you'll see."

Is this what they call "the villain complains first"? Now, she has finally seen someone do this.

Nevertheless, Su Xiaoxiao didn't speak. She wanted to hear what Han Cheng would say first.

Han Cheng looked at his son, who was cowering in Su Xiaoxiao's arms and couldn't even look at him. After all, his son is a repeat offender who throws stones at people. He almost blurted out the words, "You used stones to hit people again?" but when he met Su Xiaoxiao's eyes, the words that were about to escape his mouth, moved backward.

"Although I don't know the cause and effect, my wife is a reasonable person, and she has her reasons for how to deal with things. My wife, Fantuan's stepmother, was even better at educating him than I, Fantuan's biological father. So, you don't have to bother about Su Xiaoxiao. I think there is a misunderstanding, you should listen to her first."

It was an eye-opener for Cheng Lifang. Sure enough, people who don't belong together, don't get to live together. If that was her man, he would have slapped his son long ago. I have never heard Head Han indulge his wife and children like this before.

If she recalls correctly, when Fantuan threw stones at people two years ago, he paid for dozens of their medical bills and beat Fantuan. Why is he acting like this now?

Su Xiaoxiao was very satisfied with Comrade Han Cheng's performance. Indeed, she has a good eye. The man she likes is pretty good. "Her son stole persimmons from our house. Fantuan saw them when he was digging up earthworms over there. He threw a stone outside and hit her son. I said that whoever hits someone and steals something should apologize. Is there anything wrong with what I said?"

Han Cheng nodded. He looked at Cheng Lifang, and repeated Su Xiaoxiao's words: " Is there anything wrong with what she said?"

Cheng Lifang was so aggrieved that she had nothing to say, but she didn't dare do anything to Han Cheng. Her husband almost lost his life on the battlefield a few years ago, and it was Han Cheng who tried his best to rescue him from King Yama. His own man admires Han Cheng very much. Nobody knows when he will go to the battlefield next time or whether he will come to Han Cheng for help again. She could only walk away while dragging her son in anger and not being able to say a single word.

Chapter 22.2

After Cheng Lifang pulled her son away, Han Cheng turned his attention to his son and said, "How many times have I said that you can't hit people with stones?"

"Mom…" Fantuan was about to cry and hid in Su Xiaoxiao's arms.

In this world, only my mother is the most reasonable and understands Fantuan the best. My father will surely scold me again.

Su Xiaoxiao squatted down, she lowered her head until her eyes and Fantuan's eyes were at the same height. She looked into the child's eyes and said: "Baby, didn't mother tell you this morning that you can't throw stones at will, and you should convince people with reason? If you hit someone's eyes, they will never be able to see anything in their entire life. You were so sad when your little brother hurt his hand, but what if he hurt his eyes? How sad would his parents become? He is also a child, just like you. It's wrong of him to steal, right? Then, you should tell him to return what he stole. You shouldn't make the first move. Can you remember this time?"

Fantuan really listened this time and nodded carefully: "Remember, Mom."

"Then, tell it to your Dad, and Mom will go and see if the meal is ready." Su Xiaoxiao whispered to Han Cheng, "You can teach your son in any way, but you can't beat him."

Han Cheng: "…" Whose biological son is this?

"Do I look fierce?" He never hit his son?

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him with her head tilted. She pressed his two index fingers against the corners of Han Cheng's mouth and said, "A little bit when you don't smile. It would be better if you could smile more."

Su Xiaoxiao bent down to pick up Xiao Doubao and kissed his face.

Han Cheng: "…" Does his wife think everyone's name is Su Xiaoxiao, and they all like to smile like her?

After Su Xiaoxiao entered the kitchen, Han Cheng pointed to the wall behind Fantuan and said, "Go and stand there, reflect for ten minutes, and then tell me what you did wrong."

Fantuan instinctively wanted to ask Su Xiaoxiao for help.

Han Cheng said, "It's no use looking for anyone. Go."

Su Xiaoxiao adores children but never spoils them. She will not intervene as long as Han Cheng did nothing wrong in educating his son. Most boys have a hero complex and have been admiring strength since childhood. She knows how important it is for a dignified father to set up the correct three perspectives for a boy's growth. This role can't be replaced by a mother.

The meal is not ready yet. It is estimated that it will take about ten minutes. Han Cheng went to build a fence for the chicks, while Fantuan was punished for standing in the corner. Otherwise, if they ran around the yard, he would have to clean up chicken excrement everywhere, which is smelly and unsanitary. It is hygienic to raise it in a certain area. Chicken excrement can be collected as natural organic fertilizer, which can be used to grow vegetables.

Han Cheng made an arc fence and put the chicks in the corner of the vegetable plot.

Su Xiaoxiao thinks that Han Cheng is dexterous, and even suspects that Han Cheng has a slight obsessive-compulsive disorder. The height and width of each bamboo are almost the same, and a small row of bamboo is particularly beautiful.

"It would be so nice if we could plant a circle of morning glory to climb on the fence."

Han Cheng thought for a moment and said, "It seems that the loofah, wax gourd, balsam pear, pumpkin, beans, and snow peas in that bag of seeds are vine crops that can blossom and bear fruit. However, only chives, radishes, and cabbage are suitable for planting now. It is not too cold this winter. It may be fine to cover the loofah and balsam pear with adhesive tape. For the beans… I am not sure if they are green beans, so you can just try planting them."

Su Xiaoxiao looked at Han Cheng with more than just admiration, this is a blind spot in her knowledge.

Su Xiaoxiao gave him a thumbs up and said, "Comrade Han Cheng, you are so awesome! You even know about this! But I still don't know what to plant."

Han Cheng looked at her deviously and said, "Your mother never told you these?"

Her Father and Mother loved her very much, and her two brothers also loved her. It can be assumed that Su Xiaoxiao has loved to smile since childhood, so they named her Xiaoxiao. Generally, rural families can't support her lifestyle. Her mother should have considered this, and even if she didn't intentionally teach these fundamentals, as a farmer's daughter, she should be able to pick them up by ear.

Su Xiaoxiao mobilized the memory of the original owner, Only after sorting out the ideas did she reply: "I was born prematurely. I was thin and weak when I was young. Fortunately, my parents loved me very much. My two brothers also let me study hard when I was young. So that, in the future, I will be assigned to work in the city after taking the college entrance examination and not in the field. Unfortunately, the year I was preparing for the college entrance examination, they suddenly announced the cancellation of the examination. I had to stay in the brigade to help with calculating points. My father always felt that the college entrance examination would resume, so he didn't let me work in the field. Who knows that I would wait for more than six years? That's why I don't have any idea about farming. I may have to write to my mother. "

Su Xiaoxiao also felt sorry for the original owner. This is the so-called noble son of a poor, humble family. As a girl, the original owner, who was the first in the annual examination, was very impressive. She wanted to know her destiny through knowledge. Who knew that a movement locked the door to this destiny?

Many people waited and thought there was no hope and gave up learning, but the original owner did not do so. In the past six years, she has never stopped studying. In addition to teaching Dabao and Xiaobao to read, she was also reviewing old and new materials almost every day. She can almost recite the knowledge of junior high and senior high school by heart. Every year, she studied for the college entrance exam. As long as they announce the resumption of the college entrance examination, she can immediately go on stage to show her strengths.

It's a pity that she couldn't wait.

If Su Xiaoxiao was not mistaken, there are still five years to go before resuming the college entrance examination. By then, Fantuan and Doubao will have grown up. She may be able to fulfill the original owner's wish and go to college on behalf of the original owner. However, it is too early to say anything. Let's not talk about whether her arrival has caused any butterfly effect, the problem is, it is still uncertain whether this era is the same time and space as the 1970s in her previous life, so she decided to take things one step at a time.

"But I haven't stopped studying in the past six years. Han Cheng, if I have the opportunity, I still want to take the college entrance examination." Su Xiaoxiao first gave Han Cheng psychological preparation, otherwise, when the time for resumption of the college entrance examination ensues, and she suddenly participates in the exam and does well in it, she might scare him.

After all, the original owner was the oldest of the old three-classes. [1]

Speaking of this, she hasn't reported peace to her mother yet, so, she has to write a letter to them sometime.

During the blind date, Su Xiaoxiao said that she had "studied for several years". Han Cheng thought that she might have graduated from primary school or junior high school at most, but he did not expect she was a practical senior high school student. This news was something Han Cheng didn't expect.

Her educational level is higher than that of most female comrades in the military region. Many of the members of the cultural and industrial corps, nurses in military hospitals, primary school teachers, etc.—have only a junior high school level of education. Even if the college entrance examination was not canceled, more families prefer their daughters to go to technical secondary schools, so that they can start work early. Su Xiaoxiao, a down-to-earth high school graduate, is relatively rare, especially in rural areas.

How can Han Cheng know that compared to Su Xiaoxiao's graduate degree from her previous life, graduating from high school is just "studying for a few years" for her?

Su Xiaoxiao thought Han Cheng would say something, but he just said lightly: "It's never too old to learn. It's a good habit to keep learning. The college entrance examination will resume sooner or later."

Han Cheng has never stopped learning. If he had the opportunity, he would like to go back to a higher school to continue his studies.

"Is your high school textbook still there? I didn't bring mine." Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Han Cheng nodded, "Yes, I have kept all the textbooks and books I have used since childhood in the innermost cabinet."

Learning opportunities did not come easily when he was a child, and Han Cheng has cherished books since he was a child.

Su Xiaoxiao was very surprised. One thing that she remembered deeply from her student days was that in the graduation season of each stage, there would be a few uncles and aunts who collected rags squatting at the school gate. She would catch them and ask them if they sold books and how much they were.

Textbooks of the 21st century can be found everywhere, and it is almost useless to keep them after graduation. Even if they are needed, you can find them in bookstores at any time, so people sell books as waste paper after graduation.

Unexpectedly, Han Cheng had kept his textbooks for decades. She wanted to open the cabinet immediately to see if they were rotten.

Since they reached a consensus, Su Xiaoxiao did not continue on this topic. She said with a smile, "Comrade Han Cheng is great. It's time to stop our son's punishment. Hurry up and lift the punishment. We'll have our dinner."

Han Cheng also wanted to ask her where she learned to cook these delicious dishes. Her skill is equal to those who work in a state-owned hotel in the county.

However, after careful consideration, he thought that some people have talent in this field. With her intelligence, as long as she has seen or heard it, and read a little something about it, she will definitely be able to do it. In conclusion, Han Cheng didn't bother to ask about it anymore.

The little Fantuan in the corner has been listening with his ears pricked up. When Su Xiaoxiao said that the time for standing was enough, he immediately turned around and met Han Cheng's gaze.

"Dad, I know I'm wrong. I promise I won't throw stones at people anymore. I even promise not to throw stones in the river!"

Smart children can become the pillars of the country if they are well disciplined, and vice versa. If they are not well disciplined, they will do more harm to society than ordinary people. Therefore, educating these children is a very advanced discipline.

"Han Jing!" Han Cheng only called him by his real name when he was talking about serious topics he hadn't called him Han Jing for a long time.

If Su Xiaoxiao had not just asked Fantuan about his name, Fantuan would not have responded.

"Here!" Comrade Fantuan stepped forward to salute the army.

"Do you know there is a word called a stepmother's dilemma?" Han Cheng asked.

Fantuan paused and shook his head, "I don't know."

Han Cheng looked into his son's eyes and said every word with emphasis: "It means it's difficult to be a stepmother. When your mother disciplines you and does a great job, others will think it's natural for her to do it. If she can't manage you well, the others will think that you are not her real son, so she doesn't care about you. No matter how well she teaches you, people will gossip behind your back. Han Jing, you know that your mother raised you and your brother like her own son. However, in the eyes of outsiders, your current behavior does not represent you. You are still a child. If you did something wrong, they will not blame you, but they will blame your parents for not disciplining you well. Do you understand what I wanted to convey?"

Han Cheng's words no longer regard Fantuan as a child, but more like a conversation between two men.

This is the first time that Little Fantuan has talked with his father on an equal footing. Little Fantuan didn't know how to use words to describe his inner shock. But many years later, Han Jing, who has grown up and no longer goes by the name, Fantuan, would remember what his father said to him.

"I understand, Dad, I will not take the initiative to hit others again, but Dad, if others hit me first, I will fight back!"

Han Cheng: "…" Who gave birth to the tiger's son? OK. It's wrong to be beaten and not fight back. He's still young. We can teach him slowly.

Han Cheng himself grew up with Fantuan, and only then began to learn how to be a qualified father.

"Dinner is ready! Wash your hands and eat!"

The soft and sweet voice came from the kitchen, and the father and son looked at each other.

Fantuan took his father's hand and whispered, "Dad, you married the right wife. I'm very satisfied. I will marry a wife like this when I grow up!"

Han Cheng: "…" Did the five-year-old kid even think about marrying a wife? Well, he is also very satisfied with his wife.

T/N: New Chapter will be posted tomorrow! Thanks for reading~

References

References

↑1 Those students, who graduated from middle or high schools in 1966, 1967, and 1968, were referred to as Lao sanjie ("old three-classes" 老三届).

Chapter 23.1

The garlic-flavored pork chops are still highly praised by the family.

These home-made dishes with little technical content are nothing in the 21st century, but they can be regarded as delicacies in an era where food and clothing are luxury items.

Su Xiaoxiao feels that she has returned to living a normal life these days.

But these patched clothes…

Well, everyone has a desire for beauty, who wouldn't want to look better if they could? It has nothing to do with pleasing others. Wearing beautiful clothes can make the wearer happy.

Han Cheng doesn't have many cloth tickets every month. Thus, she can't buy new clothes for two months. The clothes their family had were too few. Buying fabrics is good too, however, the problem is that she doesn't know how to make them. Again, this is another skill that is outside of her expertise.

In this era, Su Xiaoxiao found that there were too many things she could not do.

It would be great if Li Yufeng was here. Li Fuyeng is the typical representation of a great worker from this era. She can't do the work in the field or at home. They were only separated for a few days, and yet she already missed Li Yufeng.

If possible, she still wants to get closer to Li Yufeng in the future.

After cleaning up, it was already more than nine o'clock in the evening.

Su Xiaoxiao asked Han Cheng to take the paper and pen and let the two cubs go to bed first.

The two cubs refused to listen to Su Xiaoxiao's bedtime story. Xiao Doubao was already sleepy.

"Mom misses her mother. So, Mom is going to write a letter to your grandma and tell her that everything is okay here. I'll ask her to come here and take Dabao and Xiaobao when her hands are free. Be obedient, and I'll tell you stories tomorrow."

Fantuan had never met Li Yufeng, and Mom's mother was not the grandmother he knew. "Then, Mom, if your mother is my grandmother, and my Mother's mother is also my grandmother, does that mean I have two grandmothers? How can I tell the difference?"

What a clever little Fantuan.

Su Xiaoxiao thought for a while and said, "From now on, you will call my parents' grandpa and grandma, and your mother's parents as grandfather and grandmother, so that they can be distinguished." [1]

Fantuan nodded and said, "That's a good idea."

Han Cheng was inside the room, writing a case, and Su Xiaoxiao asked Fantuan to ask his father for an ink pad.

Fantuan ran inside and took the ink pad.

Su Xiaoxiao asked Fantuan to dip his thumb in the ink pad, press his thumbmark on the lower right side of the white paper, and also asked Doubao to press his thumbs on the paper as well. After they had put their thumbmarks on, she wrote Fantuan and Doubao's names under their thumbmarks.

"Well, now that Mom has introduced you to your grandparents. Can Fantuan take his brother to bed?"

Fantuan looked at the thumbprints on the white paper and their names below their thumbmarks. He said it confidently as he looked at Su Xiaoxiao. "Mom, I will learn to write tomorrow, and I will write to Grandpa and Grandma!"

"Okay, Comrade Fantuan's task now is, to take his brother to bed. Can you finish this task?"

Fantuan gave a military salute, "Reporting to Mom! Comrade Fantuan, promise to complete this task!"

Doubao was so sleepy that he kept rubbing his eyes. Su Xiaoxiao carried Doubao to the bed.

The little guy was very obedient. Knowing that his mother was busy, he kissed Su Xiaoxiao, held the quilt, and closed his eyes to sleep.

Su Xiaoxiao said good night to Fantuan before coming out to continue writing her letter.

It was already ten o'clock in the evening when Su Xiaoxiao had finished clarifying her situation here. Su Xiaoxiao stretched her back lazily, while Han Cheng was still busy.

She walked into Han Cheng's room with the letter and knocked at the door, "Can I come in, Comrade Han Cheng?"

Under the dim light, the man held a thick medical book in his hand.

He looked tired, but he still couldn't bear to put the book down.

Han Cheng was stunned when he heard the knock on the door. It seemed that it was the first time he heard such a sound at home. The voice made his lips rise immediately. He stopped reading and said: "Come in."

The man's voice is rough and deep.

Su Xiaoxiao sighed. This man's voice was her type, what other reason could there be for her not to marry him?

"Comrade Han Cheng, I'm writing to my parents. Do you want to greet them?"

Han Cheng didn't think there was a problem with his comprehension, but even so, he couldn't understand what Su Xiaoxiao meant.

Su Xiaoxiao showed him the letter in her hand and said, "Look, I, Fantuan, and Doubao have all greeted them."

Han Cheng received the letter and was shocked by Su Xiaoxiao's handwriting, which looked like it was pasted from the book one by one.

His father taught him how to write every stroke of the characters, however, it was neither systematic nor standardized. His father figured things out and made his style, and everyone who saw his characters would praise him for their good looks.

However, what Su Xiaoxiao wrote was the standard print, which can no longer be described as good-looking. In other words, it is just like printing on paper.

Su Xiaoxiao knew why Han Cheng was so shocked. She was also shocked when she started writing. She didn't expect that the original owner's writing was so good. After all, being the Xueba wasn't for nothing. [2]

Coincidentally, writing, drawing, and painting were some of her few hobbies in her last life, so she can write well. Since she was a child, the original owner enjoyed practicing calligraphy and used textbooks as references for her style.

The characters she practiced continuously for more than ten years were almost identical to those in textbooks. Now is the time when simplified and traditional fonts are used alternately. She uses the original owner's handwriting and style, which is somewhat different from her own, but the problem is not serious.

Su Xiaoxiao gently pressed the top of Han Cheng's head with her palm. and said with bent eyes, "Why are you in a daze? My handwriting is beautiful, isn't it? It's not printed. I just liked to practice calligraphy using the style in textbooks when I was young."

"Comrade Su Xiaoxiao, you are great." Han Cheng imitated her tone of voice. He knows that "great" means excellent, and indeed, no matter what field that is, his wife will always do an excellent job.

"Practice makes perfect. It's not a skill. You are the great one. You can understand complex medical terms." When Su Xiaoxiao walked closer to Han Cheng, she saw that the medical books he was reading were in English.

Just like they said, each person has expertise in knowledge and skills. Although she graduated from a graduate school in her last life and is fluent in speaking and writing English, she can't still understand these professional terms.

"Let's get back to business. Do you want to say hello to your father-in-law and mother-in-law? Look, this fingerprint belongs to comrade Fantuan, and this one belongs to comrade Doubao. Your thumbprint is the only one missing in this family of four."

Han Cheng browsed over Su Xiaoxiao's letter. The contents and tone were warm. She

explained the situation here in detail. There was also a short paragraph dedicated to Dabao and Xiaobao. The handprints of his two sons were printed on the edge of that paragraph. There are two small figures drawn under the handprint with only a few strokes. But at a glance, you could tell which was Fantuan and which was Doubao.

"Your painting is also excellent." With just a few strokes, it is lifelike, and Han Cheng sincerely praised it.

"I can't do the work in the field, and if I still can't write or paint well. My mother will clean me up." Su Xiaoxiao jokes.

At this time, rural parents hope that their children will be able to work in the fields or marry young to receive their dowry. Su Xiaoxiao was lucky, only her parents insisted on letting her study.

In a few years, she won't let them down.

Han Cheng's handwriting is the same as his personality, firm in writing, smooth like flowing water, vigorous, and powerful. They formed a sharp contrast with her beautiful and graceful fonts, and it looks really good when they are paired together.

Han Cheng wrote very simply. He greeted them and praised Su Xiaoxiao. telling the two elders to take good care of their health, and finally signing his name.

Su Xiaoxiao's first completed letter written by the family of four came out fresh from the oven.

Han Cheng had never seen anything like this before."Yours is more beautiful than they print on the army's bulletin board."

Su Xiaoxiao became more and more satisfied with the letter she wrote.

I guess I have to ask Mother to put mothballs on them and take care of them.

Little did they know; it would be the most precious memory for them after several decades.

"I'll buy some of our local specialties here and send them back tomorrow," said Han Cheng.

"Hmm." Su Xiaoxiao nodded.

This man is so considerate. She originally planned to do this. If the logistics were not too slow at this time, she would like to send some persimmons back. But after some thought, she didn't pursue it, knowing that it would be spoiled on the way.

Su Xiaoxiao was happy and put her face close to Han Cheng.

A faint fragrance came over Han Cheng, who didn't know what to do, and Su Xiaoxiao kissed his little pear-shaped dimple.

Han Cheng remembered that she often kissed the children's faces and kissed him too. He suddenly realized that her eyes were closed, and she touched her face gently.

After the kiss, Han Cheng's neck and ears turned red.

Su Xiaoxiao was overjoyed. He is the father of two children, and yet, he is still so innocent. kissed him hard on the cheek again, and she said, "Good night, I have to cook breakfast tomorrow." Then she went out of the room happily with the letter in her hands.

Han Cheng looked at her brisk back, and the arc of the corner of his lips never went down.

References

↑1 In the North, they call their grandparents "姥爷" or "Lao ye" which means, grandfather and "姥姥" or "Lao Lao" which means, grandmother. In the south, the most common terms for grandparents are "外公" or Waigong = grandfather and "外婆" or Waipo/Nainai = grandmother.

↑2 Xueba, which translates to "academic guru," has been spreading on the Chinese Internet for over a year. The term is used to label students who study all the time and have outstanding academic performances.

Chapter 23.2

On the morning of the next day, Han Cheng and Su Xiaoxiao almost got up at the same time to go shopping early. They both woke up early.

Su Xiaoxiao bent her eyes, and her smile was as warm as the sun just rising from the sea level. "Good morning, Comrade Han Cheng."

"Good morning." Han Cheng thought to himself; How can there be such a female comrade who smiles all the time? Having a bad mood was rare when it came to her.

Han Cheng set the fire.

Su Xiaoxiao was going to make a simple egg pancake. The process was very simple; you mixed the flour, eggs, and shrimp skin, then cooked it in the pan. The shrimp skin was sent by Zhou Yuhua. Unfortunately, there were no scallions, and there was not enough oil; otherwise, it could have tasted better.

Even with the limited ingredients, the combination of flour, eggs, and shrimp skin is already very delicious.

This reminded Su Xiaoxiao about her family in Sujia Village again. Their lives in the village were much harder than hers here. She was not even sure whether her mother had listened to her advice about not saving too much money, and eating meat several times a week.

Su Xiaoxioa mentioned it again in the letter, but she doesn't know whether her mother would listen to her or not.

However, there is one thing that Su Xiaoxiao couldn't understand. Her eldest brother and sister-in-law are well-paid workers who qualify for food and meat stamps. Although they don't earn a lot, it's enough for them to buy some meat and vegetables for the family every week. Unexpectedly, they can only buy meat when they come back from vacation every month.

According to her mother, her eldest brother would give the family a little money every month. Though the amount of the money given by them was still unknown to Su Xiaoxiao.

Perhaps it was also because of her eldest brother and second brother's separation.

When they separated, the eldest brother moved out and the second brother still stayed with their parents.

How can there be no conflicts when you have a big family? Even Su Xiaoxiao herself will be relatively partial to Xiaobao.

Su Xiaoxiao, who had been a salted fish for nearly 30 years in her previous life, wanted to help her parents and relatives by reforming and opening up the policy. She knew her mother's character, if she took Han Cheng's money and gave it to her mother, she would certainly reject it.

"It's going to be overcooked."

The man's voice brought Su Xiaoxiao back to reality. She was distracted for a while and forgot that she was still cooking. She quickly turned over the omelet.

"Han Cheng, if I go to work, what kind of easy job can I do to take care of my two young children and earn money at the same time?"

Su Xiaoxiao knows herself. She was still that salted fish in her previous life. She had never worked a tiring job in her two lives. When thinking about getting a job, she always thought that it should be an easy job.

Han Cheng took a clean bowl and put it aside. He looked at her and asked, "Is the money at home not enough?"

She didn't seem to buy anything, except better food. Her clothes were even bought from the Sujia Village, which didn't cost much.

"Or is there something that you want to buy?" Han Cheng asked again.

Su Xiaoxiao shook her head, "Fantuan is a very smart kid. I taught him how to count yesterday, and he learned it in no time. Today, I went to buy some books and pencils to teach him to write. I will enlighten him first to supplement the lacking knowledge he's supposed to learn in preschool. When everything's settled, I will transfer him to the first grade. Then I can go to work, it'll be too hard for you to raise a family alone. Help me pay attention to clerical work. Having shifts is also good, or a workplace where I am allowed to bring Doubao with me, anyway, Doubao is an obedient kid.

Fantuan was too smart. Sending him to preschool and having him spend a year there for enlightenment will be a waste of time. If the teacher's words are too simple, he may not be able to sit still, or even be naughty. Then the teacher may think that he is not obedient.

He's way smarter. Teach him something and he will remember it, and if the teacher repeats the same topic for the other students, he will be distracted and won't listen to it anymore. This common blunder slowed the development of many bright children.

Su Xiaoxiao plans to enlighten Fantuan by herself and cultivate his learning interests and habits first; then, what follows will be easier.

It would be great if Fantuan was a few years older, maybe she could take the college entrance examination with him and go to the same university. Those, however, were fleeting thoughts. Fantuan is still a child, a ten-year-old at that. She is not in favor of depriving children of their childhood, even if he is smart.

There are nurseries in the army, but Doubao was too small to speak. Su Xiaoxiao wants to raise him herself for her peace of mind.

Su Xiaoxiao's plan is very considerate. Even if Yangmei is still there, she may not be as thorough as Su Xiaoxiao when it comes to the children's life plans.

Han Cheng doesn't know what to say anymore. Just like her, he patted her on the head with a big hand: "The public relations team will like to meet you. They are very short of talents, especially young talents who have both imagination, calligraphy, and painting skills."

Su Xiaoxiao has already baked the last egg pancake and put it on the plate before saying, " The public relations team? Is it the same as the Art Troupe? Or is that just one of the departments belonging to the Art Troupe? Do I need to perform in the countryside and make a speech on the stage to promote?"

She doesn't want to go to the countryside to perform. Su Xiaoxiao was a homestay girl in her previous life. Although she doesn't have any social phobias, she would still refuse to go to the countryside to make a speech and perform. First, she didn't like the job, and second, she couldn't take care of her family.

Han Cheng thought for a moment and explained briefly: "They are all part of the logistics propaganda work. The division of labor is different. Professional song and dance skits are the work of the Art troupe. The propaganda team is responsible for making speeches in the countryside, and there are also civilian positions. Do you see that the army has many brochures and blackboard newspapers? Civilian personnel is responsible for designing brochures and blackboard newspapers. They will be replaced only when new propaganda tasks are assigned."

Han Cheng saw Su Xiaoxiao's letter from home last night and thought that it would be a shame for such a talented person to stay at home and take care of the children. However, he was worried that she would be too tired after doing so much work. If Su Xiaoxiao did not take the initiative to ask for work, Han Cheng would not mention it.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded with bent eyes. "That's okay. If possible, I'll apply for this position. It would be good if I could work flexibly and take Doubao to work. When he is older, I can teach him to write and draw. But you have to say to them that I can't stay at work eight hours a day. My focus is still on our small family. I have to take care of you and the children. You are busy at work, and we must have one person to focus on our family affairs. We have two naturally intelligent babies, we must nurture them well."

Han Cheng thought that Su Xiaoxiao was probably the most reassuring wife in the world. How fortunate is he? The best revolutionary partner can only be like this, and no one can top her.

Egg pancakes continued to win the praise of the three men in the family, but Su Xiaoxiao still thought that egg pancakes without scallions were soulless. She thinks that nothing can be planted in the vegetable garden at home, but she must plant scallions and garlic, and of course, you can't miss pepper.

After breakfast, Han Cheng asked Su Xiaoxiao what to buy today.

The two of them thought of going to the market, so they decided to go together at an earlier time. Remembering what happened yesterday made Su Xiaoxiao's head hurt.

"Take the children with you. The white radish brought by Xiao Yu's mother hasn't been eaten yet. Let's buy a fish and braise it."

Su Xiaoxiao wants to buy some meat, but it seems that no one has eaten as frequently as this. So she asked Han Cheng, "Han Cheng, is it okay for our family to buy a big fish and meat? Will someone report that our lifestyle was too extravagant?"

Su Xiaoxiao has seen these problems in period dramas and novels. She is not sure about the definition of corruption in this era.

Han Cheng shook his head: "It's not that serious. We didn't steal or rob anyone's money. It was my salary and bonus that were used. As long as we don't waste food, there's no problem."

Su Xiaoxiao felt relieved and said, "We will divide into two groups later, I will buy Fantuan's stationery and some small things. And you will buy fish and meat, and you will buy the meat you like. We will eat fish at noon and meat at night."

Fantuan disagreed, saying, "Mom, why don't you ask my opinion? I like sweet and sour pork chops!"

Su Xiaoxiao pinched the smart kid's face and said, "Dad is the head of the family. Let's take turns buying what we like. For today, let's choose what Dad likes. Tomorrow, let's buy what Fantuan likes, and the day after tomorrow, it's Doubao's turn. Is that okay with you?"

Fantuan nodded: "Mm-hmm. I agree. What Doubao will choose is up to me. I can buy what I like for two days!"

Su Xiaoxiao laughed: This baby…

He turned around and ran to Han Cheng to discuss with him: "Dad, can we make a deal? We'll buy what I like today, and you can choose what you like to eat tomorrow. I miss sweet and sour pork ribs so much!"

Han Cheng: "…. No." I only ordered a meat coupon for one month, and didn't we eat it yesterday? It's not good to eat too much today, or else people would notice it. Generally, buying fish and meat that don't require meat tickets doesn't attract so much attention.

Even if Han Cheng agreed or didn't agree, Fantuan was not angry at all. Anyway, having meat to eat already made him happy.

Han Cheng held the Doubao, while Su Xiaoxiao led Fantuan, and the family of four came to the vegetable market in a mighty way.

Today was still the same as the previous days, the market was still crowded.

The couple went shopping separately.

Su Xiaoxiao first took Fantuan to the supply and marketing bureau to buy the stationery he needs for his study. She let Fantuan choose by himself.

The little guy was so happy. He wanted pencils, erasers, notebooks, pencil cases…everything.

The employee recognized Su Xiaoxiao and asked her, "Isn't your child not old enough to go to school? Aren't you buying these things so soon?"

Su Xiaoxiao patted Fantuan's head and said, "He is small, but he will be six years old after the New Year."

Fantuan nodded: "I am six years old!"

Staff: "That's hard to tell."

A lark-like voice sounded from the side: "Are you Fantuan?"

Su Xiaoxiao and Fantuan turned around at the same time and saw a beautiful female comrade with a tall figure, fashionable clothes, and lipstick.

Fantuan's eyes tingled, "Aunt Xue?"

Jiang Xue didn't expect that it was Fantuan. If he didn't have a similar voice, she would hardly recognize him.

Jiang Xue pulled him closer and looked at him: "Why are you here alone? Where is your father?"

"My father bought meat. I'm not alone. I came with my Mom." Fantuan replied crisply.

Jiang Xue's expression changed slightly: "Mom?"

Cheng Lifang, who appeared out of nowhere, held her son, who was hit in the head by Fantuan last night and then said, "You just came back from the show and didn't know. I was just going to tell you that Han Cheng has remarried and married a rural girl."

Cheng Lifang's voice fell, and Jiang Xue's face became as white as her name at a speed visible to the naked eye.

Su Xiaoxiao blinks. Cheng Lifang is everywhere. It seems that Comrade Zhao Xianfeng didn't lie to her. Comrade Han Cheng is a hot potato, but there are too many female comrades in this military region who like Han Cheng.

Chapter 24.1

Then Su Xiaoxiao watched her adjust her expression at a speed visible to the naked eye.

As expected from an actor. The speed with which she changes her expression is comparable to the quintessence of Chinese culture.

Su Xiaoxiao deduced Jiang Xue is an art troupe actress after hearing Chen Lifang say, "You just came back from the performance," based on the way she dresses, her appearance, and her temperament.

"Congratulations! My name is Jiang Xue, and I am Han Cheng's high school classmate. What should I call you?" Jiang Xue smiled and offered her hand.

Su Xiaoxiao politely shook Jiang Xue's hand, and smiled at her, revealing her little dimples. "My name is Su Xiaoxiao."

"As the name suggests, can I call you Xiaoxiao? You are very good-looking." Jiang Xue said it sincerely.

Su Xiaoxiao thinks that there is "something" to this girl named, Jiang Xue. She knows when to advance and retreat. Her emotional intelligence is high, and her shrewdness is quite deep. [1]

These words are not derogatory to a woman. If they don't go to the extreme, they can be said to be a very excellent woman. But if such a person goes to the extreme, it is the high-ranking white lotus, which is much more difficult to deal with than Yangtao and Cheng Lifang.

Su Xiaoxiao can't be blamed for seeing through the ideas of most people in this era at a glance. On the one hand, people in this era are relatively simple. On the other hand, her nearly 30 years of experience in her last life were not for nothing.

In addition, she has also seen historical dramas and novels, which are equivalent to a full-level king accidentally breaking into the novice village and being mistaken for a newbie. But, once they appear, Su Xiaoxiao, the king, knows what kind of NPCs they are and what skills should be used to attack them.

There is no way there's nothing behind those words.

Su Xiaoxiao bent her eyes and said, "Thank you. I also think I am quite optimistic, and you are also very good-looking."

Jiang Xue froze and immediately smiled again.

She has dealt with leaders a lot in her career, and she has to feign civility. Sometimes she doesn't even know whether what she says is a compliment that came out of her mouth or her real thoughts.

But no matter what the situation, it would be the other side who would be modest when it comes to compliments.

It was rare for her to meet people who were as immodest, frank, and generous as Su Xiaoxiao. No wonder Han Cheng would like such a lovable female comrade.

Cheng Lifang originally planned to wait for the two to set up the fire, with her just watching the show on the side. She could not defeat Su Xiaoxiao. Originally, Chen Lifang wanted to use Jiang Xue's strength. As a result, they started to flatter each other. She can't even smell any trace of gunpowder.

How can this be possible?

They said that Jiang Xue chased Han Cheng from the capital to this small place, but Han Cheng had married Yangmei when she came.

She then stated that she had dedicated herself to the art troupe and wouldn't marry. She had always maintained a good figure and performed well. She was as old as Han Cheng, and she dragged herself to the age of 27 or 8 without getting married. There have been rumors outside that she is waiting for Han Cheng.

They didn't expect that Yangmei would leave the world unexpectedly last year. Everyone thought that she and Han Cheng might be successful.

As a result, Han Cheng went out and brought his wife back without warning.

Cheng Lifang couldn't understand this. The fruit that she has kept for several years is eaten by birds. It's all empty. How can Jiang Xue still be so calm?

After greetings, Su Xiaoxiao and Jiang Xue didn't have much to talk about. After waiting in line to pay the bill, she led Fantuan out. Fantuan also said "goodbye" to her very politely and then walked away with his new gift.

Jiang Xue's eyes darkened. It seemed that they got along well, and Fantuan seemed to like his stepmother very much.

Cheng Lifang touched Jiang Xue's arm and said, "She is a country girl. She is not even fit to hold your shoes. I don't know what means she used to force Han Cheng to marry her. Can you watch Han Cheng jump into the fire?"

Jiang Xue took back her eyes from Su Xiaoxiao and glanced at Cheng Lifang: "I don't know what you are talking about, but who Han Cheng marries has nothing to do with me. I have to remind you that there is no difference between high and low. If your words are passed on to someone who cares, they will be reported to the GE Committee and you'll be criticized."

Jiang Xue doesn't like Cheng Lifang. She has a low educational level. She thinks that she is eloquent. She is no different from the gossipy woman at the entrance of the village. She thinks highly of herself because she has been a primary school teacher for a few years. She looks down on one thing and looks down on another all day, which is very offensive. However, she is a distant relative of her own. To maintain her dignity, she has to exchange a few pleasantries.

She is familiar with herself, and always thinks she knows her very well.

Cheng Lifang is defeated. After all, the rumors are rumors. Jiang Xue has never admitted that she is waiting for Han Cheng. She doesn't believe that she can be criticized, even if she says that Su Xiaoxioa is a country girl.

"I don't mean to scold her. She is from the countryside. It has nothing to do with you, and it has nothing to do with me. It's just that I am rooting for you… She doesn't deserve Han Cheng. How many outstanding female comrades are there in our military region? The main thing is, Su Xiaoxiao is not a good bird. I heard that she is still under political investigation, and they can't be considered a real married couple without the certification."

Cheng Lifang kept talking for a long time. No one knows if Jiang Xue was listening to her since her eyes were glued to Han Cheng's figure, who came with a lot of things in his hand.

Jiang Xue became suffocated again. Han Cheng could stay in the operating room laboratory, or even go to the battlefield, but he shouldn't be here. He is the son of heaven who has been surrounded by stars since his school days. How can he come here to sweat with these old people?

Han Cheng naturally took Su Xiaoxiao's hand and said, "I only have a few meat tickets. They will not be issued until next month. Oh, I bought some pigeons without tickets, but the meat may be a little small. When I go back to the army, I'll try to ask other people if they have meat tickets. If there are some, I will exchange the money for some."

Han Cheng has always remembered that when he married her, he promised her to take care of meat and food.

Su Xiaoxiao saw that he was sweating, so she took out her handkerchief and wiped it for him: "No, this is very good."

These white pigeons can make up for it. It's much better than pork. The meat is still tender, and it doesn't even need a meat ticket, which left Su Xiaoxiao at a loss for what to say.

Doubao reached out to his mother to hug her. Su Xiaoxiao held him and weighed him. She doesn't know if it was an illusion, but Su Xiaoxiao felt that the baby was a little heavy.

In Han Cheng's eyes, pork is the most delicious thing, and he thought Su Xiaoxiao was only comforting him.

Seeing the pigeon, even Fantuan curled his mouth: "Daddy, why do you like this food? Pork ribs are delicious!"

Su Xiaoxiao: "Don't worry, I promise you will find the pigeon meat the most delicious dish you have ever tasted."

The family of four was about to return home when Jiang Xue came over and said, "Han Cheng, long time no see."

Han Cheng looked at the sound source and nodded: "Long time no see."

Then he said to Su Xiaoxiao, "This is Comrade Jiang Xue, my high school classmate and the pillar of the Arts and Crafts Troupe."

Su Xiaoxiao said, "Yes, I've met her."

Han Cheng looked puzzled.

Su Xiaoxiao said: "She recognized Fantuan, and we talked for a while."

Su Xiaoxiao turned to Jiang Xue and said. "Comrade Jiang Xue, Han Cheng is going back to the army to work. We'll go first."

Han Cheng nodded and turned around, with things hanging from his shoulders and hands. Su Xiaoxiao easily hugged the child, and Fantuan hugged his newly bought gift, bouncing and walking side by side with them

Jiang Xue didn't know how to describe her mood at this moment. This is a picture of something she never thought would happen to Han Cheng.

Although she has never been optimistic about Han Cheng's marriage with Yangmei, at least when Yangmei was there, Han Cheng didn't need to sweat so much to buy vegetables in the market. Seeing Su Xiaoxiao's charming appearance, Jiang Xue seemed to imagine that Han Cheng had to do a lot of housework at home.

Why? Why did Han Cheng marry such a wife? How can he have the energy to do medical research? Can he even find time to write the research papers?

She found out that she didn't know Han Cheng at all, just like she didn't understand why she didn't stay in the capital when she was living quite well there, but instead moved to this place where the living conditions were pretty bad.

Still in the political investigation, and no marriage certificate? Jiang Xue clenched her fists tight. She didn't even feel pain when her fingernails penetrated her palm.

It's been six years; she's been here for six full years—the six most beautiful years for a woman, it's time to be numb to everything.

References

↑1 A buzzword on the Internet, the pinyin is: yǒu diǎn dōng xī, which means that when a person's actual strength is found to be far higher than his superficial strength, this sentence can be used to describe a person who is hiding something.

Chapter 24.2

Along the way, Han Cheng found that Su Xiaoxiao, who always liked to smile, was a little depressed and didn't talk much.

When he got home, Han Cheng couldn't help it. He put down the things in his hands and took Doubao: "What's the matter? Are you tired?"

Su Xiaoxiao said as she pulled the hem of her clothes, shaking her head and puffing her chin. "Look, these are all patches. I just want to buy two pieces of clothing, but I don't have any cloth tickets anymore. Can you exchange some cloth tickets with your comrades in arms when they issue your salary next time?"

Han Cheng felt relieved and even wanted to laugh. He thought that someone had wronged her. Well, it's actually about a young woman's passion.

Su Xiaoxiao is sweet, and she loves to smile very much. His attention was unconsciously focused on her rather than on what she was wearing at all.

He was indeed negligent. In the past, Yangmei herself would take cloth tickets, but she didn't notice this problem.

He just wanted to let Su Xiaoxiao eat better. It never occurred to her that all female comrades have a love for beauty. Maybe when she saw Jiang Xue wearing beautiful clothes, wearing beautiful clothes made her think about it.

"Okay, I will tell the accountant to change other tickets that are not available for the time being into cloth tickets. I'll go back today and ask if I can take it in advance." Han Cheng thought about exchanging some with other unmarried male comrades. It should not be difficult to get enough tickets for her to buy two suits of clothes first.

Su Xiaoxiao finally smiled and said, "Don't worry, it's going to be cold next month, so I'll just buy thicker clothes then."

Su Xiaoxiao sighed: "It's a pity that I can't make clothes. If my mother is present, we could buy fabric and sew our own clothes. The cloth ticket of two clothes may be enough to make clothes for our family."

Han Cheng doesn't want to ask why she can't make clothes anymore. Besides reading, writing, and painting, the job she did best in her mother's house was probably making all kinds of delicious food.

"After the autumn harvest, let your mother and Xiaobao come and live here for a while, so they can help us make clothes."

Su Xiaoxiao's eyes widened, and she nodded: "Yes, yes, this is a good idea. Why didn't I think of it? My mother can plant in our vegetable garden. I don't have to worry about failing to cultivate the melons and vegetables when I have my mother!"

She always felt that if she relied on growing vegetables to eat, she would starve the whole family to death.

Su Xiaoxiao stood on tiptoe to kiss Han Cheng.

Su Xiaoxioa slapped her forehead as she suddenly remembered something. "It's bad. I forgot to send my letter when your high school classmate interrupted me."

Then she smiled again: "Well then, I still have another letter I wanted to send them, I'll write another letter asking Mother to come over. When the letter arrives, the autumn harvest should be over, and my mother is just starting her journey here."

Han Cheng pursed his lips and shook his head, after all, she was still a girl at heart, and when it came to his mother, she was still a child.

However, if it were not for such a family, she could not have such a good disposition.

After Han Cheng went to work, Su Xiaoxiao told Li Yufeng to do what she wanted, and immediately wrote a letter to her. The main point was that she couldn't make clothes out of the fabrics she had. She would live in misery because she had no clothes to wear in the winter. The vegetable garden was bare, and there was no food to eat. It was miserable to spend a lot of money to buy green vegetables every day. In winter, green vegetables were more expensive than meat, and the persimmons at home were also damaged by her.

The cloth in the countryside was not easy to get; it was too precious. Li Yufeng is reluctant to give the cloth to her daughter, and she also thinks that her daughter can buy ready-made clothes directly when she goes to college. She didn't teach her how to make clothes, so the clothes of the whole family are made by herself.

When Li Yufeng saw Su Xiaoxiao's two letters, she suspected that they were not written by the same person. The last letter had a story about their good life, and the next one had a story about her miserable life. It was still put in the same envelope and sent back with the same postmark. This made everyone dumbfounded, but she was really worried that his daughter had no clothes to wear and no vegetables to eat. Li Yufeng had no choice but to leave the work she had to do and go see what an inhumanly miserable life she was living.

Of course, these are things for later.

Su Xiaoxiao originally wanted to make braised pigeons, but the ingredients were not complete, and there was no oven or microwave. Unfortunately, it could not be done.

It suddenly occurred to her that Xiao Bao liked to put sweet potatoes in the place where the stove ashes were put and simmer them… She could then wrap the pigeons and cook them over a charcoal fire. Isn't that the same thing as Beggar's Chicken? [1]

Beggar pigeons… I see no problem with that.

"Calling Comrade Fantuan, calling Comrade Fantuan!"

Fantuan, who was showing off his new stationery to his brother on the stone slab, ran back home when he heard Su Xiaoxiao's call and shouted. "Comrade Fantuan received the call, Comrade Fantuan received the call, Comrade Fantuan is here! Do you have instructions, Mom?"

Since Fantuan's foot was only slightly sprained and had been cured for several days, Su Xiaoxiao was willing to let him run errands.

It's one thing to know your neighbors in town, but most people here in the neighborhood know each other. At this time, children were allowed to come out, and there were no human traffickers. It is safe as long as it is not too far away.

"Does Fantuan know lotus leaves?" Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Fantuan thought for a while and nodded, "I know, it's the leaves of the lotus root."

Su Xiaoxiao nodded and said, "You're smart." and gave him a thumbs up. "Can you help your mother go to Grandma Zhang's house and ask for some lotus leaves?"

"Mm-hmm." "I promise to complete the task!" Fantuan saluted.

After coming back, it was the first time his mother sent him out on a "mission," and Fantuan was very excited.

Su Xiaoxiao put some milk sugar in his pocket and then asked him to take two persimmons: "Be polite when you see Grandma Zhang. Divide the persimmons and milk candy and bring them to Dundun. You can't go near the lotus pond and pick lotus leaves yourself. Ask Grandma Zhang to help you pick lotus leaves. When you get them, say thank you. Then come back directly. Mom is eager to make delicious pigeons with lotus leaves. Can you do that?"

The clever little Fantuan repeated Su Xiaoxiao's words word for word, and nodded heavily: "I can do it!"

What a clever little Fantuan.

Su Xiaoxiao rubbed his head and said, "Go ahead and be careful."

When talking with Aunt Zhang that day, Su Xiaoxiao knew that her house was near the north, with abundant water and a small lotus pond.

Little Fantuan ran away.

After all, it was the first time Little Fantuan "go out on a mission," so Su Xiaoxiao was not at ease. She followed him out of the house with Xiao Doubao in her arms and chased him to the north.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't turn back until she watched him enter Aunt Zhang's courtyard from afar.

"When will Xiao Doubao grow up and help his mother with tasks like his brother?"

The little guy responded with a "bah," which made him drool.

As the saying goes, "Parents will worry for 99 years during the 100 years of raising their child." Su Xiaoxiao felt that she already had the heart of an old mother.

Su Xiaoxiao adjusted her recipe and decided to eat pigeons at noon and fish soup at night.

The pigeons bought by Han Cheng are not small, just a little smaller than the smallest hen. She first smeared the pigeons with salt, and then marinated the pigeons with soy sauce, rice wine, ginger, onion, garlic, anise, and other ingredients. She also made a simple version of minced garlic barbecue, and when it's ready, use the other lotus leaves to put the remaining two eggplants in the kitchen to simmer.

In an era when cooking tools were simple and there was a shortage of oil and ingredients, the method of cooking in one pot and simmering in another pot was already the most fuel-efficient and trouble-free cooking method that Su Xiaoxiao could think of.

The flavor was also quite good.

After all the preparations were done, Su Xiaoxiao continued to peel the persimmons that were not finished yesterday.

She had only done two of them when Fantuan came back. When he reached the gate of the yard, he shouted: "Mom, your Fantuan is back after completing the task!"

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the door. He came back not only by himself but also with two little friends. A very sturdy little boy was half a head taller than Fantuan, holding a large lotus root in his hand, and a little girl with two small braids, who is a little shorter than Fantuan, was chewing milk candy.

"Ah, my friends came with me."

Fantuan put down the lotus leaf and explained: "Mom, this is Dundun, this is Yaya. Grandma Zhang gave me lotus root. I said that I couldn't take it without my mom's instructions. So, she forced Dundun to follow me and send it here."

'

People are kind and simple these days.

Su Xiaoxiao got up and took the lotus root in Dundun's hand: "Good, good. Thank you, Dundun and Yaya, for your hard work, remember to help me thank you, grandma."

Dundun was too shy to say thank you. Although Yaya liked to laugh, she was very shy. She didn't talk much, Instead, she squatted down to tease Xiao Doubao.

Su Xiaoxiao entered the house, took some fried rice cakes they had purchased in the city, and distributed some to each of the children. She also stuffed two persimmons for Dundun and Yaya.

They were also lacking in supplies. This is all they have at home, so, it can't be helped.

The brother and sister left without much hesitation.

The lotus leaf was different from what Su Xiaoxiao thought of. This is a dry lotus leaf. She thought it would be a fresh lotus leaf picked from the pond.

In the end, Fantuan explained to her: "Mom, the water in the lotus pond and the leaves of the lotus root are dry at this time. There are no leaves in the lotus pond to pick. Grandma Zhang said that these are the leaves she picked and dried before. This can also be used."

Su Xiaoxiao was embarrassed. She is a person who has no common sense when it comes to crops and grains.

The dried lotus leaf is stronger than the fresh lotus leaf and has a stronger fragrance. However, when the dried lotus leaf comes in contact with fire, it will surely be turned into charcoal. In recent years, there is no such thing as tin foil that can insulate the fire. She does not want to go outside and use the soil; this is too troublesome and unhygienic.

Su Xiaoxiao decided to temporarily adjust the cooking method. She can wrap it in a dried lotus leaf, put it in the pot, and steam it.

It won't be as delicious as the chicken cooked over charcoal, but it will taste good with the fragrance of the lotus leaf.

Beggar pigeons can wait until they have fresh lotus leaves next time.

Han Cheng left with Doctor Chen at noon.

Doctor Shen lived in the bachelor's dormitory in the north. When he passed Han Cheng's yard, he suddenly smelled the overflowing fragrance coming from the yard. Doctor Chen couldn't help but drool over the smell.

He swallowed and said, "Director Han, is Xiaoxiao cooking lunch? The taste makes the children next door cry, right?"

"It's sister-in-law!" Han Cheng spoke with a stern face.

"Huh?" Dr. Chen was a stubborn man. He didn't hear clearly what Han Cheng said, he only thought of wanting to go in and see what good things Su Xiaoxiao had made. It must be so delicious.

Han Cheng ignored him and opened the door to the courtyard. Doctor Chen wanted to follow him, but Han Cheng slammed the door in his face and isolated him directly.

Doctor Chen touched his nose and said, "… Don't be so stingy, Director Han? I just want to see Xiaoxiao's skill, but I don't plan to stay for dinner."

Han Cheng: "…" Didn't I tell him not to call her Xiaoxiao? He will ask the dean to send him to the clinic in the valley to perform free checkups tomorrow.

Dr. Chen, the stubborn doctor, still lingered at the door and refused to leave, then shouted inside: "Sister-in-law Xiaoxiao, what did you cook? I'm so hungry, I don't want to eat it. Can I come in and take a look?"

Han Cheng gave him a cold glance, and let him go in the afternoon instead of waiting for tomorrow.

References

↑1 Beggar's chicken is a Chinese dish of stuffed chicken that is wrapped in clay and lotus leaves, and baked slowly using low heat.

Chapter 25.1

Doctor Chen could only smell the food but not see it physically. He was sent away by Han Cheng before he could see the food or even Su Xiaoxiao.

A whole soft and boneless spiced lotus leaf pigeon was served on the table, and the aroma of the food was overflowing.

The steamed eggplant with garlic was soft and delicious, and the whole yard was filled with a mouth-watering aroma.

Seeing Xiao Chen's reaction just now, Han Cheng, who originally thought that eating meat behind closed doors was fine since he was using his salary, started to doubt what he said.

His wife's craftsmanship was too good, and every meal she cooked would always turn out delicious. However, if every meal were as delicious as her other dishes, then being envied by other people would be unavoidable.

Rather than being reported by some and asked to be investigated without any notice. It is better to report it back to the army tomorrow and tell them that the two children at home were weak and required foods that could make up their bodies, so the food at home became better.

This was also a good reason he could use for exchanging meat tickets. Tickets for milk powder cannot be less also.

Besides, this is not an excuse, this is the truth.

Xiao Doubao can eat by himself now. Pigeon meat is good for children's health. Su Xiaoxiao shredded the tender part of the pigeon and put it in Doubao's bowl, then sprinkled it on top of the bowl and mixed it.

From time to time, she gave him some eggplant. The baby ate every meal with gusto, and a bowl full of mixed rice was eaten clean.

Fantuan, needless to say, ate everything very well. Sure enough, pigeon meat has become ranked 1 of the most delicious food again. He also took out the few bones of the pigeon and fed them to his little brothers, Zhou, Fen, Mian, and Fan.

Yes, since the four chicks became members of their family, Fantuan has become a leader. He called himself General Fantuan. The four chicks were named Zhou, Fen, Mian, and Fan. He also took Han Cheng's ink to make a different mark for each chick, so he can avoid calling their names wrong, and said that when they grow up, they should also be eaten in the order of " Zhou, Fen, Mian, and Fan."

Su Xiaoxiao thought that this child was also big-hearted. Generally, children were reluctant to eat small animals they raised themselves. When Xiaobao raised chickens, his family also did a lot of psychological construction for him. Otherwise, Li Yufeng will have to cry and rob it if she wants to kill the little hen Xiaobao raised.

But it was not the case for Fantuan. His chicks were initially raised to eat. All day long, he hopes that the chicks will grow up and be ready for cooking. Whatever the chicks want to eat, whether it's worms, crickets, vegetable leaves, or sweet potato bones—it'll be fed to them. If Su Xiaoxiao hadn't said that their food can't be fed to the chicks because it is too luxurious, he would even give them some of the egg pancakes he ate in the morning.

While digging worms, Fantuan said, "You must grow up quickly, Zhou, Fen, Mian, and Fan. Mom is an excellent cook. The little pigeon is now in the top 1. You should quickly grow up, be cooked deliciously, and try to become number one to defeat the little pigeon!"

Su Xiaoxiao could hardly laugh or cry. If the chick knew that they were being fattened up to be someone else's dish, they certainly wouldn't want to grow up. It seemed that she could see Zhou, Fen, Mian, and Fan shivering.

Han Cheng was also quite speechless about his son. His temperament has become more and more similar to Su Xiaoxiao's. In the past, Yang Mei thought they were too dirty to raise these small animals. Even the vegetable garden was empty most of the time, and it is impossible for Fantuan to willingly squat there and dig for worms.

The character of an individual will reflect the character of the person who raised him. Su Xiaoxiao is not worried that Fantuan will grow crooked.

Han Cheng helped Su Xiaoxiao clean up the kitchen and then said about her work: "The army said that you have good conditions. If it is confirmed that there is no problem after the political investigation, you can take an internal assessment first, and you can go to work at any time after passing the examination. The working hours are also flexible. We will discuss the details after everything is certain. These are all easy to handle."

Su Xiaoxiao nodded: "Just find a good career direction. I'm not ready to go to work so soon. At least wait until school starts next semester, and send Fantuan to school for class. When my mother comes, I have to learn how to grow vegetables from her. I'm afraid I can't learn how to make clothes."

The most unacceptable thing in Su Xiaoxiao's previous life was commuting and having a 996 lifestyle. It would kill her if she sat on duty for eight hours, honestly. Even without a large inheritance left by her parents, she could make money as a short video food blogger to support herself. [1]

In this life, she doesn't have the same living conditions she had in her last life. In this era, people have to marry and raise children to support their families.

Su Xiaoxiao and Li Yufeng haven't been together for a long time, but she treats Li Yufeng as her mother. Maybe it's because she lacked maternal love in her previous life, so she always wants to spend more time with Li Yufeng in this life.

"The political investigation should come down soon," Han Cheng said. He would not say that he rushed the leaders today to speed up the progress. "The public relations task at the end of the year should also be heavier, but we should do it according to our ideas. It's OK to postpone the work a little."

"Hmm." Su Xiaoxiao stood on tiptoe and gave him a mouthful of "smack" on his face. take a nap, I'll clean up the rest. You have to recharge your energy to contribute to the country and earn money to support your family. "

Han Cheng was already used to her way of expressing her love. Now even Fantuan and Doubao can't help but adopt this way of expressing their love for their loved ones.

Anyway, the work was almost done, Han Cheng was a little tired today, so he didn't force himself. He raised his lips and reached out to rub her head, then turned and left the kitchen.

Fantuan and Doubao were also used to it. When their father takes a nap, they have to follow his example and take a nap.

Although Fantuan still wanted to dig more worms to fatten the porridge and noodles quickly, he still went into the house with his father to sleep.

Taking advantage of this time, Su Xiaoxiao went to the post office to send the letter before Han Cheng went to work in the afternoon.

The commodities of the supply and marketing agency here were much more abundant than those of the supply and marketing agency in Sujiacun County. Su Xiaoxiao bought some special products that could not be bought there and could be stored without tickets. She also bought some stationery without tickets for Dabao and Xiaobao. However, she didn't buy things that required tickets, such as pencil cases and school bags.

Su Xiaoxiao bought a lot of varieties, but the quantity was not large, so she didn't pay much attention. The post office was not far away, so she sent them together with the letter.

Su Xiaoxiao bought some odds and ends for her family and went back.

When she was crossing the path, she heard someone say, "Shhh"

Su Xiaoxiao focused her eyes and saw an aunt who was wearing very shabby clothes and looked like her other eye was in bad condition waving at her.

Su Xiaoxiao blinked, unsure if the other party was calling her.

She said, "Hush, hush…".

Su Xiaoxiao pointed to her nose and said, "Are you calling me, aunt?"

The aunt looked around and saw no one around before she said, "Come here, come here."

People these days are very simple, there should be no such thing as touching porcelain, Su Xiaoxiao walked over and said: "Auntie, what's the matter?" [2]

"Are you Director Han's new wife, who was greedy?" The aunt asked her.

Su Xiaoxiao: "…" She has only been here for a few days; who set up such a character for her? Why is it not a beautiful fairy?

"Auntie, I'm Han Cheng's wife, but I'm not greedy." The latter sentence lacked confidence, probably no one would eat meat twice a day these days.

Su Xiaoxiao thought about it, and when the weather got colder, she would buy more and store it at home, so that everyone would not have to look at their house every day to see if they had bought meat.

"Then come with me." The aunt pulled Su Xiaoxiao's hand.

Su Xiaoxiao quietly broke away from her hand: "The children at home are taking a nap. I have to hurry back. If you don't have anything to say, I will leave."

The aunt looked furtively around again and said, and when she saw no one coming, she said, "It's like this. My family's conditions are not good. My grandson picked up some stone snails. I am here to ask if I could exchange some of the snails for money."

When the aunt finished talking, she waved her two rough hands: "I-I, I, I'm not selling it to you, I'm trading it with you."

These days, speculators who cut off the tail of capitalism are going to be jailed. If it weren't for the difficulties at home, no one would come out to take this risk.

Su Xiaoxiao initially thought it was something sketchy, but after hearing what the Auntie said, she dropped her guard.

"Yes, do you know where our house is? I have no time to go with you now. You can deliver it quietly when it is dark. Don't say anything. I will exchange it with you."

The aunt didn't expect that she would agree to it directly without asking anything. She was also surprised: "I will send it to you tonight, that money…"

Su Xiaoxiao said, "You can calculate it according to the market price."

The aunt was overjoyed: "Thank you, thank you very much. My grandson is in the first grade. I will ask him to pick up more, and he'll have the money to buy the book."

Uh…

Su Xiaoxiao didn't know what to say for a moment: "Auntie, we won't eat snails every day. Eating it once or twice a month is more than enough. We can't delay the children's studies because of catching snails. If there are loaches and eels, that's also good. However, you need to help me take care of them first. Remove the internal organs, wash them, and send them to me. I can give you more …I will give you a little more money, or I can exchange it for a notebook and a pencil."

The aunt kept nodding: "Good, good, I understand, it won't delay the children's study. Oops, when winter comes, you can't take more of it, so I can only eat it this month. The first time I saw you, I thought you looked like such a beautiful and kindhearted person. If it were someone else, I would not even dare to ask. Don't tell anyone about this, or else, we will both be criticized."

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the time, and it was almost 1:40. Han Cheng still had to rush back to the army, so she didn't chat with her anymore: "I know, anyway, if you come over later in the night, you must do it stealthily. I really should go."

The aunt almost turned her head into a chicken pecking at rice: "I know. Don't worry, I'll send it to you at night."

References

↑1 The 996 working hour system (Chinese: 996工作制) is a work schedule practiced by some companies in the People's Republic of China. It derives its name from its requirement that employees work from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm, 6 days per week

↑2 "peng ci" or "touch porcelain," was coined to describe a situation where someone is ready to fall at the slightest touch so that he or she can claim compensation from whoever comes close or helps.

Chapter 25.2

After this delay, Su Xiaoxiao had to jog all the way home.

There are more channels to improve food. It is always good not to go to the market every day. She just wondered how people set her up as a greedy wife of Han Cheng.

When she returned home, Han Cheng came out of the room with his cufflinks clasped in one hand. Su Xiaoxiao was relieved to see that he had not left. The children were too small to be left behind without anyone watching them.

Su Xiaoxiao put down the things in her hand and went forward to help Han Cheng straighten his collar while telling him what had just happened.

Han Cheng slightly raised his head so it would be easier for her to sort it out.

Listening to Su Xiaoxiao's description, he probably knew who she was talking about: "It should be the Zhuzhi family. His father was a hero who died on the battlefield. His mother remarried, leaving only the grandparents and grandchildren in the family. The army gave them their pension every month, so their life shouldn't be so difficult, but you can keep the things when they are delivered, and it doesn't matter if you pay a little more."

Su Xiaoxiao was stunned: "It turns out that they are orphans of martyrs. He was in the first grade of primary school. If Fantuan transferred classes at the beginning of the year, he would be Fantuan's classmate?"

Fantuan is one or two years younger than them. It is reasonable to start school next September and have to go to preschool first. But at this time, it will not be so strict. It is not a big problem for him to keep up with the homework and go directly to the first grade. If Fantuan's learning progress continues to be ahead of that of his classmates, he may be asked to skip another grade. In short, teach students according to their aptitude and do not delay them.

"Oops, I talked too much and caused a delay. It's getting late. You should go quickly." Su Xiaoxiao pushed the man out.

Han Cheng nodded and tilted his head slightly.

Su Xiaoxiao understood, she smiled and stood on tiptoe to give him a goodbye kiss.

Han Cheng pursed his lips and went out of their house, feeling particularly good.

If he hadn't met Doctor Chen at the door, he would be in a better mood.

Doctor Chen blushed, rubbed his eyes for a long time, and said, "You..you..you…"

He couldn't believe his eyes. In broad daylight, Director Han let his wife kiss him and smiled so brilliantly!

Doctor Chen was disillusioned, and Director Han's lofty image, which was comparable to Mount Everest in his mind, was also shattered.

He never thought that he would see such a scene from Han Cheng!

"Does Xiaoxiao still have a sister or cousin? A cousin can do, too." Doctor Chen finally asked. He also wanted a sweet and gentle wife like Su Xiaoxiao!

"No! Let me say it again, please be mindful of the effects of your actions and words! You shouldn't call her Xiaoxiao. Call her sister-in-law or Comrade Su!" Han Cheng resumed his usual expressionless face.

'It is impossible for me to introduce someone to you.' Han Cheng thought. 'Only when I have a problem in my head can I be your brother-in-law.'

"Ah?" Dr. Chen suddenly realized and repeatedly apologized, "I'm sorry, Director Han, I don't mean to offend you, but I just want Xiao… My sister-in-law looks too kind, like the sister next door."

"She is older than you!" Han Cheng interrupted him.

"Ah?" Dr. Chen was shocked. "My sister-in-law looks like she's in her early twenties."

"This is not something that you ask casually." Han Cheng continued.

Doctor Chen finally shut his mouth.

"By the way, there is a task of popularizing health knowledge and family planning science before the year ends. It would take you a month or two to go to the countryside. Do you have any questions?" Han Cheng asked.

Doctor Chen's real name is Chen Aimin. He has been assigned less than a year after graduation from the Workers, Peasants, and Soldiers University. He is still a junior and still in the internship period.

Han Cheng was not so narrow-minded as to send him to the countryside to avenge his grudge. Generally, when they have a task like this, they have to send someone from the obstetrics and gynecology department to go with the public relations team.

However, this year, the department of gynecology and obstetrics was very busy and couldn't pull people from the department. Chen Aimin, as his name suggests, is very enthusiastic and close to people, and can easily mix with everyone. General knowledge of health and family planning is the basic skill of every doctor. Han Cheng, the director of the department, also needs to take the scheduling of manpower into account. Han Cheng will not force him if he doesn't want to.

Dr. Chen was very happy: "I am willing to accept the test of the Party and the people, and I will complete the tasks assigned to me by the leaders!"

When the leader assigned tasks to him, didn't that mean that the leader wanted to train and test him?

Han Cheng nodded with satisfaction: "I believe you can do well, Comrade Chen Aimin."

Doctor Chen turned his head into a chicken pecking at rice: "I will live up to the trust of the leader! When I get back, I will memorize the information thoroughly and recite it to you. Director Han, I have to race against time to study, so I won't wait for you, I'll take a step first."

Then, Han Cheng saw a figure flash past his side quickly; it soon turned into a shadow and disappeared in the lane ahead.

Han Cheng nodded with satisfaction.

However, Chen Aimin's words did remind him that in the future, he should ask his wife to kiss him inside the house, and not in the yard to prevent other people from making them the topic of their gossip.

Back at work, Han Cheng went to the logistics department first and reported the physical condition of the two children in their family. He said that he might need to supplement his nutrition during this period and that his wife's cooking was also good, even if he was afraid of causing disputes with neighbors.

The leader of the Logistics Department understood that it was not a corrupt act to eat well with his labor income, which reassured Han Cheng.

Consequently, when Han Cheng asked whether he could exchange his industrial tickets and daily necessities tickets for meat tickets and cloth tickets, the leaders also readily agreed.

The number of tickets issued to each person every month was not much, and people would exchange them according to their needs at ordinary times, which is very normal.

The kind-hearted aunt in the office also asked him if he needed a milk powder ticket, saying that her grandson's wife had enough milk and that the child didn't need to increase the amount of milk he drinks for the time being.

Han Cheng thanked her on the spot for exchanging her milk powder tickets for other tickets.

In this way, the whole military hospital knows that the children of Director Han's family are particularly thin and need to be supplemented with nutrition.

There are no secrets in small places, and the speed of information dissemination was also fast. Everyone knows a little about the two children. All the single comrades have extra tickets that they don't need at the moment, so, they are willing to exchange them for Han Cheng.

Han Cheng thanked them one by one and exchanged them for better tickets.

Su Xiaoxiao promised Fantuan to teach him to write yesterday. After the brothers took a nap, Su Xiaoxiao first taught Fantuan to write Arabic numbers from one to ten.

When Fantuan did his homework, Su Xiaoxiao began to peel persimmons.

Xiao Doubao came to stare at Su Xiaoxiao's cut persimmons and then went to his brother to make trouble. Finally, he sat down to arrange the persimmons in a row, like his brother did yesterday.

Su Xiaoxiao discovered that, even though Doubao can't speak, he was very smart in other aspects. After watching Fantuan arrange the persimmons yesterday, he could arrange one row of ten persimmons today. Nothing more, and nothing less, it's exactly ten.

At first, Su Xiaoxiao thought it was a coincidence, so she took one of the ten persimmons Doubao had arranged to peel.

As a result, Xiao Doubao added one.

The second time, Su Xiaoxiao quietly took two, and Xiao Doubao carefully filled in the two missing persimmons.

The third time, Su Xiaoxiao took five directly, and Xiao Doubao also took another five persimmons to fill the gap.

Su Xiaoxiao was surprised. They all said that children who speak late have great wisdom. Could it be that Xiao Doubao is a smarter child than Fantuan?

"You are a smart Xiao Doubao," Su Xiaoxiao said, kissing his serious little face.

Xiao Doubao knows that Su Xiaoxiao was complimenting himself, and his big black and white eyes were bent into small crescent moons.

Su Xiaoxiao encouraged him: "Can Doubao make another row?"

Xiao Doubao got up and ran to pick up persimmons. There was another row behind the first row of persimmons. There were exactly ten of them, no more, no less, and they were neatly arranged.

Su Xiaoxiao gave him a thumbs up: "Our baby is great!"

Xiao Doubao raised his smiling face, and his white teeth were particularly dazzling in the sun.

Su Xiaoxiao felt that her worries were unnecessary. Han Cheng and Yang Mei are both intelligent. How can their children be stupid? Speaking a bit later is not a big problem since he had no problem with his vocal cords. Children will naturally talk when they are willing to speak. Guiding them was enough.

Chapter 25.3

After a busy afternoon, Su Xiaoxiao finally peeled all of the persimmon skins.

She stood up and twisted her sore waist. 'This was a huge project.'

To avoid another event like "stealing persimmons," Su Xiaoxiao had to sun-dry the persimmons on the wall again this time. The golden persimmons were too attractive for the children outside, and it was hard for them not to pay attention to them. She found some big bamboo nests and wiped them clean before letting Fantuan, who had been writing for a long time, line up the persimmons with Doubao to sun-dry them one by one.

Fantuan was still the clever Fantuan. Ever since Su Xiaoxiao taught him how to count yesterday, he didn't forget a single bit of it today. He taught his brother how to count clearly and distinctly while lining them up neatly.

After everything is done, Su Xiaoxiao assigns Fantuan to write the numbers 11 to 20 and proceeds with preparing dinner.

The dish she prepared for dinner was very simple. It is a white radish and fish soup with coarse-grained rice.

Because the fish soup takes a relatively short time to make, Su Xiaoxiao stewed the mixed grains and rice first and then shredded the radish.

When the rice plate was half cooked, Su Xiaoxiao fried the fish that had been lightly salted in the morning until both sides were golden. She poured a whole pot of boiling water directly into it, put a few slices of ginger in it, covered the lid, and let it boil until the fish soup was slightly white, and then put down the shredded radish.

After finishing these tasks, Su Xiaoxiao went out to see if Fantuan's homework was done. She pointed out some of his mistakes, corrected his gesture of holding a pen, and held his hand several times to guide him on how to write well.

"Mom, do you think the number two looks like a duckling? Does number three look like our ears? Doesn't number 7 look like a hoe? Does number 8 look like our two nostrils? Do numbers 6 and 9 look like spoons?" Fantuan asked.

The child's imagination is rich, let alone what he said, which was pretty accurate.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded and said, "Fantuan observed it very carefully, and indeed, they are very similar. In case you can't remember them, Fantuan can think about what they are like and remember them."

"Mm-hmm." Fantuan nodded and continued to lie down and write.

Han Cheng came back late today. The rice and fish soup were cooked for a long time before he came back.

Su Xiaoxiao greeted him and took the briefcase in his hand: "Are you busy today?"

Han Cheng used to work overtime, and sometimes even stayed up all night. Now he tries to bring back the paperwork he can do at home. He would rather go home than work overtime, so his off-duty time was relatively early.

Seeing his wife's smile at home can eliminate his tiredness and improve his work efficiency.

Han Cheng nodded: "It's a little late to discuss several cases. Next time I come back late, you eat first, don't wait for me. If I can't come back to eat dinner with you, I'll ask someone to tell you at an earlier time."

Su Xiaoxiao: "I know. It's not that late. If the children are hungry, we will eat first and leave you a meal. Fantuan is very good. When I taught him to write numbers, he remembered them all in one try, and he can write them several times. His penmanship was really good too."

Han Cheng said, "That's because you teach well."

Su Xiaoxiao disagreed: "It's because Fantuan is smart and willing to learn."

As they spoke, they looked at each other and smiled.

The reason why Su Xiaoxiao doesn't like fish is that, when she was a child, a fishbone got stuck in her throat. She has to go to the hospital every time to find a doctor to pull out the fish bones with tweezers, which has made her grow up with psychological trauma when she sees fish.

But the nutritional value of fish is very high, especially the protein, which is best for the elderly and children. Therefore, Su Xiaoxiao taught that it is necessary to eat it once a week.

In tonight's fish soup, Su Xiaoxiao didn't add any seasoning, just a little salt.

The creamy fish soup and shredded radish were cooked until they became transparent and melted in the mouth. This is another delicacy with high nutritional value.

Su Xiaoxiao asked the two children to eat fish belly, which is the part with a few fish bones.

Fantuan was a little older and had eaten fish when he was a child, so she asked him to pick the fish bones slowly. As for Xiao Doubao, Su Xiaoxiao pinched each bite several times with her hand to ensure that there was no fish bone before she dared to let him eat it.

She didn't eat much herself. She was very comfortable eating some of the shredded radishes and drinking some soup with coarse grains.

Even Han Cheng ate very slowly, and he noticed that Su Xiaoxiao didn't eat fish. He removed some fish bones and put them in Su Xiaoxiao's bowl: "Eat it."

Su Xiaoxiao shook her head: "I don't like fish very much, but I like the soup."

Han Cheng didn't force her.

Delicious is delicious, but it is too troublesome to eat. This meal lasted an entire hour.

Su Xiaoxiao thought that they couldn't eat this more than once a week.

As soon as the bowls and chopsticks were put down there, someone knocked on the door.

Su Xiaoxiao, then remembered that the aunt was going to send the stone snail at night.

She went to open the door, but it was not the aunt, but a little boy who was a little taller than Fantuan and dressed in rags. This is the Zhuzi that Han Cheng mentioned, and Fantuan's future classmate.

"Auntie, I was sent by my Grandma." The little boy's voice was very clear.

He is very thin, almost as thin as the current Fantuan, with dark skin, but his eyes are bright and vivid. His eyes were also simple and decent, and he didn't take a glance around the house.

A child without a mother is like grass. This is the son of the martyr. Su Xiaoxiao couldn't help but feel sad for him. She smiled and said, "Zhuzi, come inside first." [1]

Zhuzi was surprised: "How did you know my name?" Immediately, something came to his mind, "My grandma told you, right?"

Su Xiaoxiao shook her head and said, "Your father is a hero, and you are the son of a hero. I naturally know that."

Zhuzi's eyes were hot. He lowered his head and didn't speak again.

Su Xiaoxiao took the snail in his hand and estimated that it weighed several kilograms, and it was difficult for a little boy to carry it that far.

Fantuan ran over and asked him, "Who are you?"

Xiao Zhuzi sniffed. He raised his head and smiled shyly: "My name is Zhuzi."

Fantuan said: "Oh…. my name is Fantuan." He looked at the dark things in the basket and asked, "What is this?"

Zhuzi said, "Stone snail."

Fantuan asked again, "Huh? Where did it come from?"

Zhuzi replied: "I went to the mountain stream to pick it up."

"Wow, you're awesome, you even picked up so many!" Fantuan squatted down and poked at the hard, stone snail.

Zhuzi shook his head and said, "Not really."

During the chat between the two little boys, Su Xiaoxiao made a bowl of fish soup and said, "Fantuan, let Zhuzi come in and let him drink a bowl of fish soup first."

Zhuzi was flattered and repeatedly waved his hand and shook his head: "No, no, no need, aunt, I have eaten dinner."

The neighbors were very kind to him, but no one was willing to invite him to drink fish soup because it was too precious.

Su Xiaoxiao said: "It doesn't matter. I cooked too much. It will go to waste if you do not drink it. You should drink water to moisten your throat, otherwise, Auntie won't take your stone snails."

Zhuzi is not stupid. He knows that this auntie is kind, and no matter how rich people are, they will not waste fish soup.

Fantuan stood up to help his mother promote the fish soup: "Taste it Zhuzi, my mother's fish soup is delicious, but it won't taste good when it gets cold.

Poor children become the heads of the family at an early age. Whether someone is sincere or is only acting politely, Zhuzi can clearly distinguish both.

After saying "thank you" in a low voice, he stopped rejecting Su Xiaoxiao's kindness, picked up the bowl, and didn't dare to sit down, for fear that his dirty clothes would stain other people's stools.

"Sit down first before you drink it. I'll go and take what's in your basket." After Su Xiaoxiao finished speaking, she picked up the basket and walked into the room.

Zhuzi quickly finished drinking the soup, stood up, and waited.

Not long after, Su Xiaoxiao came out with a basket containing some things.

Zhuzi saw that there was money inside, along with a small bag of white rice and a few milk candies. He was so surprised that he didn't dare take it. He waved his hands repeatedly: "Auntie, just give me 50 cents, I can't take these things."

Su Xiaoxiao said, "You don't have to say no, I talked to your grandmother about it, she knows what's going on. Milk candy is a gift from our family's Fantuan to his new friend. If you don't want to be their friend of Fantuan, you can return the milk candy to him, but I think he will be very angry."

Fantuan nodded: "Yes, all of my good friends got milk candies from me. Xiao Yu, Dundun, and Yaya, if they also have good things, will share them with me. You are also my friend, so you have to!"

'Friend?' This term is very strange in Xiaozhu's understanding. The students at school don't want to be friends with him, so he can also have a friend.

Su Xiaoxiao put the basket in Zhuzi's hand and said, "It's getting late. Go back. Come back to play with Fantuan when you have time in the day. We welcome you at any time."

Zhuzi's tears could not be controlled. He gave a deep bow, turned around, and walked away with the basket in his arms.

Only when he got out of the warm yard did he dare to lift his head and wipe the tears on his face with dirty hands.

Immediately, he touched the milk candy in the box and smiled again.

He has a friend. He finally has his first friend in his life. His name is Fantuan!

He also drank the most delicious bowl of fish soup in his life, which was from his good friend's mother, a very gentle and beautiful Aunt.

….…

References

↑1 A child without a mother is like grass—just like grass, they were left unattended and no one cared about them. They were left to fend for themselves.