The Consolation
Tangtang lightly pushed Guoguo. Guoguo approached Zhao Chen and reassured him "Don't be unhappy, Uncle Zhao. I'll teach you how to play the game of chess. You will undoubtedly improve your skills at it."
Zhao Chen's dissatisfaction evaporated as he gazed at Guoguo's gorgeous look, and all he wanted to do was embrace Guoguo in his arms.
Lin Hua had been looking at them the entire time. Guoguo shifted his eyes to Tangtang when he finished speaking. His message was clear: 'What about me?'
Tangtang appeared to be helpless. As though encouraging a kid, he stroked Lin Hua's head. "Uncle Lin, I will teach you as well," he said solemnly.
Lin Hua couldn't say anything. 'I'm overjoyed to hear that!' he thought to himself. 'However, what does your behavior imply?'
Xu Ran and Zhao Chen were already laughing at him before he could think of a response.
Lin Hua rolled his eyes. He was aware of their amusement. He just responded while holding Tangtang in his arms "Let yourself to be envious there! You realize, this is your pipe dream, right?" (A pipe dream is a want or plan that you have but know will never come true.)
Xu Ran responded with a smile, "I'm the father of the child. It's something I truly don't want. If you want to keep the comfort going, I can let Guoguo touch you as well."
"Come on then!" Lin Hua affected not to care.
Xu Ran gently pushed Guoguo behind him, "Guoguo, go and touch Uncle Lin's head. He has a bump there."
Guoguo went over him. He comforted him while touching his head, "Let Guoguo help you, it won't hurt."
Lin Hua was at a loss for words at this point. Xu Ran and Zhao Chen both burst out laughing at this moment. Despite the fact that the two children had no idea what was going on, they were delighted to see the two adults laughing.
"What are you talking about? You are so happy. Come. Dinner is ready. You guys can talk later!" Liu Tong suddenly appeared at the door and said to them.
Xu Ran replied, "Well, let's eat first. We can discuss about it later."
He then stepped out, holding Guoguo in his arms. Lin Hua and Zhao Chen trailed after, and Lin Hua was also in charge of Tangtang.
The meals served in the evening were far more flavorful than those served at lunch. Liu Tong and Shao Yu didn't cook much for the meal because they wanted Lin Hua and the others to be able to relax soon thereafter. This supper was unique. There were more people present, and more food had been prepared. This was, without a doubt, a substantial lunch.
Because their family appeared to have nothing except potatoes and sausages, Xu Ran urged them to prepare potatoes in various ways. There were plenty of sausages on the table as well.
Lin Hua and Zhao Chen were both devoted to their families. While eating their meal there, they were effusive in their appreciation.
Lin Hua told them, "I've eaten at all of He Shui Town's restaurants, but Xu Ran, the dishes at your family table are better than any of them."
Xu Ran smiled and responded, "Can't the food stop your mouth? Don't you see who prepared the dishes today?"
"Who?" Lin Hua asked.
Xu Ran cast a peek around the table. Lin Hua immediately grasped the situation. He abruptly ceased speaking and began eating obediently. He felt it was inappropriate to praise anybody there when so many people were working together to prepare the meal. Furthermore, Xu Ran's husband was there, making it even more dangerous for him to reveal too much.
Lin Hua was conscious that, despite his lack of knowledge and talent, he still understood common sense and fundamental manners.
Wu Mei and the others returned home after dinner, leaving the cooking chores to Liu Tong and Shao Yu.
Tangtang and Guoguo were still being pressured by Lin Hua and Zhao Chen. Lin Xi's presence was frequently overlooked. He was, however, spotted conversing with Gao Quan at the time.
Only Xu Ran and Qin Shuwen remained in the living room at the end. Each of them was currently holding a baby in his arms. They didn't appear to be ashamed in the least. After all, the two families shared a strong bond.
Xu Ran, who was amusing Baozi, suddenly heard Qin Shuwen ask, "Xu Ran, do you know where Yun is now? Why haven't I heard from him yet?"
When confronted with these inquiries, Xu Ran began to get a headache since he was unable to provide a good response. He knew Qin Shuwen was concerned about Zhuo Yun, just as he had been concerned about his family during his time away from home. He completely knew how he felt, but he couldn't provide him any help with his situation.
Qin Shuwen sighed before Xu Ran could respond "You don't have to be worried about me. Actually, I'm sure you're not as knowledgeable as I am. I just ask about it casually."
Seeing this, Xu Ran felt sorry too. Still, he tried to comfort him, "Shuwen, I understand your concern, but I'm not excellent at reassuring people. I feel you should trust Zhuo Yun. He's been in company for a long time and is a seasoned entrepreneur. He's also smart. When it comes to leaving the house to do business outside, we've always held the belief that nothing is more essential than our ability to return home safely. Furthermore, he is well aware that you and Qingshu are expecting him at home, so he will not act inappropriately outdoors."
Qin Shuwen replied, "I understand what you're saying, and I believe you do as well. I'm in good shape. I'm just curious about it. Of course, I have faith in him. By the end of the month, he could be back."
Qin Shuwen even had a faint smile on his face, as though he realized Zhuo Yun was on his way back. Xu Ran couldn't say anything more after seeing this scene.
The atmosphere surrounding them had become suffocating, and none of them said anything. Fortunately, Liu Tong and Shao Yu arrived after finishing the kitchen cleaning.
Xu Ran handed the child to Liu Tong as if he had seen his savior. He quickly left after saying, "I'll go upstairs to see Tangtang and Guoguo."
Liu Tong felt a little strange. He asked Qin Shuwen, "Shuwen, why is Ran so anxious? What were you talking just now?
Qin Shuwen replied, ""He's most likely attempting to conceal from me. I just asked as to why Yun had not written to me. He didn't know how to respond to my question properly. As a result, he left."
Liu Tong smiled after hearing this. He said to Qin Shuwen, "Shuwen, don't worry. It is not the first time that Zhuo Yun went to a business."
Qin Shuwen nodded. "I know, but I still can't help but miss him, so I asked about it. I'm sure Xu Ran is unaware of him as well. I didn't request an answer from him. I didn't expect him to run that fast, though."
Liu Tong said, "He is probably afraid of your being sad."
Qin Shuwen smiled. "I'm not that weak."
After saying that, she laughed again.
Liu Tong was relieved that he had come around to the notion after seeing him laugh.
After that, Liu Tong and Qin Shuwen talked about it "Shuwen, it's getting hot in here. It's also a good idea to change the attire of the kids. Please tell me what sort of fabric you like. I'll ask Ran to get some for me when he goes shopping."
It was now March. The grownups had removed their heavy cotton garments and replaced them with thin ones. Even though the children were small, they were heated.
Qin Shuwen said, "Just buy the same cloth as yours. Qingshu is older than Baozi. He can also wear that kind of clothes that Baozi wears."
Liu Tong nodded, "All right, I'll ask Ran to buy more of the cloth. Maybe these two children will look like twins just like Tangtang and Guoguo when they are dressed up. "
Shao Yu and Qin Shuwen both laughed when they heard this. The setting was inherently wonderful to envisage. They started discussing about tomorrow's hundredth day celebration party once they finished chatting about the clothing.
Liu Tong said to Qin Shuwen, "Sworn Dad and the others may arrive tomorrow. Ran and I are hoping to entice them to stay the night. You'll have to assist us persuade them if they disagree."
"Then my dad and daddy will criticize me for it. He will say that I have regarded myself as a member of your family," Qin Shuwen said with a smile.
"Aren't you a member of our family? Don't forget that you have just celebrated the Spring Festival here. " Liu Tong laughed.
Shao Yu nodded in agreement.
The three of them were chatting in the living room happily.
Xu Ran was heading upstairs to Tangtang and Guoguo's room on the other side of the house.
Tangtang and Guoguo were unable to take the medicinal bath because others were staying at home these few days. As a result, Xu Ran conferred with Gao Quan and agreed to put the situation on hold for a few days.
Tangtang and Guoguo were quietly writing something in the room at the time. Lin Hua and Zhao Chen stood close, keeping an eye on them. They would sometimes mumble or even quarrel with each other, not as focused as the two small toddlers.
Xu Ran entered the room, "What are you two doing? Don't you see them practicing? Why are you guys still focused on arguing like this?!"
Xu Ran immediately received a rejoinder from his children as a reaction "We're Fine, Dad. It's okay if we pretend we didn't hear anything."
And Xu Ran instantly noticed Lin Hua and Zhao Chen's pleased expressions. Being smacked in the face by his own children was a terrible sensation. Xu Ran was visibly embarrassed.
Lin Hua and Zhao Chen sneered as they covered their lips. Xu Ran escorted the two of them out of the room, claiming that they were interfering with his two children's studies.
Xu Ran stated when he emerged, "You two are really dull, in my opinion! Because they were practicing, the two children didn't pay attention to you. How did you manage to spend so much time there?"
"We were bored to begin with!" Lin Hua said, spreading his palms. "We haven't been able to sleep since we slept throughout the day. There are a lot of Ge'ers in your family. So, other from having fun with kids, what else can I do?"
Xu Ran considered it and said "That is true, however it is now late at night. I'm sorry, but I can't think of anything else for you to appreciate. Why don't you simply go back to your room and relax there? My house has great soundproofing."
Lin Hua and Zhao Chen both flushed crimson when they heard this. They were both adults, after all. They were well-versed in such matters. They didn't expect Xu Ran to bring it up so casually. It's the equivalent as inviting them to dinner.
Lin Hua patted Xu Ran on the back, "How could you say something like that? You're still a scholar."
Xu Ran shrugged while thinking, 'Isn't this normal? You both are pretending that you've never done that kind of things.'
Lin Hua dragged Zhao Chen away from Xu Ran when he was staring at them. When Xu Ran saw their backs, he chuckled and muttered, 'Humph, who asked you two to laugh at me right now?'
He walked into Tangtang and Guoguo's room after having fun to teach them. He should teach his children not to humiliate their father in front of strangers.
Tangtang admitted that he had made a mistake and vowed that he would not repeat it. Guoguo emphasized his determination as well. As a result, Xu Ran was satisfied and returned to his room.
He even determined that he could hug Liu Tong and enjoy their private night together. It was true that their home was soundproof.
_____
The seventh day of the third lunar month, when tiny Baozi had been in the world for a hundred days. Since the daybreak, the Xu Ran family had been active. Tangtang and Guoguo did not attend school today since they had requested leave from Fuzi the day before.
Xu Ran had borrowed tables, chairs, bowls, and chopsticks from his neighbors, and they had been delivered to his house on a daily basis since early morning. Breakfast had already been prepared by the time the sun rose.
After breakfast, they started to prepare the formal feast.
Xu Ran anticipated that the entire town would attend, so he arranged two more tables for the Qin family.
There would be two rounds of feasts, with twelve tables of food set up for each round. With all of the tables in place, the previously vacant yard appeared to be a touch busy.
Xu Ran had previously prepared the melon seeds and sweets. He needed to go greet the guests himself, so he delegated the duty of recording the present list to the village chief.
The family of the village chief arrived early as well. They came shortly after finishing their breakfast. Five kilos of rice and some veggies were given by the village head's household.
The presents from the village may not have been as attractive as the money provided from the town, but they were functional. Rice and vegetables could be prepared to eat, and it was simple to repay the favor in the future.
Xu Ran preferred these.
Then, on and off, people from Xu Village came over. It was a busy day, but not too hectic, because everyone was taking advantage of the opportunity to relax. Around nine o'clock, Xu Ran noticed two carriages approaching from the village's far end.
It might be Qin Shuwu and the others, Xu Ran speculated. They did not specify when they would arrive, although it was close to that time. As the carriages approached, Xu Ran approached to meet the guests.
He was absolutely correct. Qin Shuwu and the rest were transported in carriages. One of the carters turned out to be Qin Shuwu, while the other was the shopkeeper.
The carriages also carried an elderly couple from the Qin family. The brothers of the Qin family, who had not brought their wives, were among the others. Several children exited the second carriage, followed by Housekeeper Zhuo.
Xu Ran greeted them one by one, "Sworn Dad and Daddy, Housekeeper Zhuo, shopkeeper, Brother Qin..."
The children of the Qin family proceeded to welcome Xu Ran as uncle after welcoming everyone else. Liu Tong was standing near the doorway as Xu Ran turned around. He waved and motioned for him to come over.
The entire family was dressed up today, especially the three children. Tangtang and Guoguo wore the red coats, while Baozi wore a new outfit designed by Liu Tong.
Baozi has been in good health since the croton seeds incident. In addition to superb diet, he was plump and fair, like a steamed bun and luring people to taunt him.
Baozi could now grin. Elder Qin Daddy quickly carried Baozi after Liu Tong arrived, addressing him as loving grandchild. Elder Dad Qin encircled him as well. Xu Ran approached Housekeeper Zhuo and the shopkeeper to greet them.
"Brother Qin, there are too many visitors today," Xu Ran told Qin Shuwu. "It's possible that I won't be able to join you. You can discover Shuwen yourself because you've been here previously and he's also inside! So, bring your younger brothers along."
Qin Shuwu smiled. "It's rare for me to come to your place. Are you treating me like this?"
Xu Ran said, "Didn't you say you didn't want me to stand beside you at the ceremony? I'm paying attention to what you're saying. Find a suitable playing area. I'm going to introduce myself to the others. I'll leave you alone."
"Fine, you brat, go!" Qin Shuwu gave him a nudge.
Xu Ran walked to Housekeeper Zhuo and the shopkeeper. "Housekeeper Zhuo, shopkeeper, I didn't expect that you will come."
Housekeeper Zhuo looked very happy, "Of course I shall come. Today is not only your child's special day, but is also a joyous occasion."
"Oh, what is it?" Xu Ran asked with curiosity.
Housekeeper Zhuo took out a letter from his pocket and handed it to Xu Ran. "That's it, Young Master's letter arrived yesterday!"
Housekeeper Zhuo was beamed with joy when he said this. Xu Ran took the letter, on which were four words, "For Shuwen's Eyes Only."
Xu Ran felt certain it was written by Zhuo Yun, even though he didn't recognize his handwriting. He gave Housekeeper Zhuo the letter back and said, "Please come inside and deliver this letter to Shuwen, housekeeper Zhuo. He's been anticipating it for a long time. I'm curious as to how happy he will be when he receives it."
"Sure, sure, sure. I'll send this letter to master. I'll go now," With the words, Housekeeper Zhuo pulled the shopkeeper inside.
Originally, he had planned to take a closer look at his house, but now he completely forgot it.
When Xu Ran looked around, he noticed Elder Daddy Qin still holding Baozi and conversing with Liu Tong. Qin Shuwu and his companions were nowhere to be found. To Liu Tong, Xu Ran replied, "Why don't you bring Sworn Daddy into the room, Tongtong? Shuwen has received a letter from Zhuo Yun. Let Sworn Daddy to check. Outside, I'll take care of everything."
Liu Tong nodded and said to Elder Daddy Qin, "Daddy, Let's go inside now. We cannot keep talking at the doorway. You haven't seen Shuwen for a long time, have you? Let's go and find Shuwen."
Elder Daddy Qin nodded. "Okay, let's go in and talk."
Liu Tong led the way in front while Elder Daddy Qin followed behind him.
As they walked, they talked about the house.
Following their departure, Xu Ran went to the entryway to greet visitors. As he looked back, he noticed a carriage approaching from the village's entrance, clearly going towards their house.
Xu Ran was stumped as to who it was. After all, he only knew a handful of individuals who could drive a carriage, and they were already here. Is it conceivable Zhuo Yun has returned?
The carriage came to a halt in front of Xu Ran's residence just as he was estimating the identities of the onlookers. Xu Ran didn't take long to see the people exiting the carriage.
He wasn't familiar with the person driving the carriage but he knew very well the two people who got off.
Mr. Chen and Doctor He!
Xu Ran never expected that the two would come.
They were already at his doorway, so he didn't have time to react. Xu Ran grinned and walked over to them to greet "Doctor Chen, Mr. Chen He, you two are very exceptional visitors!"
Mr. Chen glared at Xu Ran, "You don't even inform me of the child's one-hundred-day celebration, Xu Ran! With our relationship, you don't even tell me something like this."
'Our connection is between a buyer and a seller!' Xu Ran scratched his nose and murmured in his head. 'Lets not make it seem like I've let you down, okay?'
Before he could answer Mr. Chen, Doctor He came over too. He said, "Xu Ran! I'll call you that way! What's your relationship with that Qin? When I met him today, he said he was coming to your house, but he refused to take me here with him. Tell me whether he is here. If he has come, I'll beat him up. Don't think that I can't find my way here without him taking me."
Xu Ran was sweaty. It turned out that he was here to fight, not for him. However, Xu Ran honestly answered Doctor He's question, "Doctor He, Brother Qin's father is my adopted father, and he is also my big brother. This is our relationship."
Doctor He slammed Xu Ran on the shoulder, "Is he here? I will settle the score with him!"
Xu Ran said, "Doctor He, don't be angry. Today is my son's day, you can't be like this! Even if you want to beat him up, you'll have to wait for a few days."
Mr. Chen also consoled him, "Old He, Xu Ran is right. You can beat him up tomorrow. After that, I'll treat you in my restaurant for dinner."
Doctor He was behaving in a juvenile manner. When Mr. Chen finished speaking, he nodded and agreed, saying, "Keep in mind what you said. You must take me out to dinner."
Dinner worked!
Doctor He did not sense anything, but Mr. Chen was a little embarrassed. He was really just casually talking.
Xu Ran smiled. "Mr. Chen, Doctor He, please come in. I'm a little busy today. Help yourselves."
Mr. Chen waved his hand. "We are the crashers in the party. It's good that you didn't kick us out."
"What are you talking about? We're already so near, Mr. Chen, like you mentioned. I'm not sure how I'm going to get rid of you. And, since we're on the subject, why are you here with Doctor He?"" Xu Ran asked.
"Well, it's a long story."
Then Mr. Chen began to speak about his meeting with Doctor He. They'd met a few times before, but they didn't know each other particularly well.
This morning, Docgtor He met the Qin Shuwu family and learned that Qin Shuwu was visiting Xu Ran. Then he suggested that they meet together.
Qin Shuwu, on the other hand, was ruthless in his rejection. Then, while walking about, Doctor He ran into Mr. Chen, who was on his way to the restaurant.
Because the two had met before, Mr. Chen inquired, and Doctor He replied, "blah blah blah." As a result, Mr. Chen learned of Xu Ran's child's one-hundred-day celebration. Then he casually mentioned that he was heading to Xu Ran's house as well, and when Doctor He mentioned that he was going to find Qin Shuwu to settle the score, the two met up.
Xu Ran was speechless after listening the whole story.
Was Doctor He dim-witted?
Xu Ran took a look at Doctor He and realized that this Doctor He was nothing like the one who had fought Qin Shuwu in the clinic back then!
However, it just demonstrated that he didn't know everything there was to know about him.
Xu Ran ushered Doctor He and Mr. Chen into the room and they were taken to Qin Shuwu and the others. He had to walk to the front to welcome the visitors, so any subsequent brawling would be out of his hands.
The candies were still distributed by Tangtang and Guoguo today. They have a lot of experience with it.
People from the village, for the most part, brought everything over. However, there were far too many people arriving; nearly every member of each family was present. Today's preparations, according to Xu Ran, were insufficient.
He could see why so many people were upset when they were handing out candies earlier. They'd brought their entire family to eat!
However, he thought that because these people were so used to it, they did it on a regular basis. Xu Ran couldn't say anything since he wasn't in a position to. As more guests arrived, he went to the kitchen to tell them to prepare extra food in case it became awkward if there wasn't enough.
06.17.21