Chapter 189

Chapter 189

The moment he said this, Yan Lan and Xu Yuqing were stunned. Looking at Yu Song, whose face still had baby fat, both of them wondered how he could be so understanding.

Yan Lan was even more moved. Looking at him, her emotions surged. "Song, don't worry. Mom will work hard to bring you over. When the time comes, can you go to school there? I'll pick you up right after school."

Go to school? Yu Song, who was about to cry, looked at Yan Lan in confusion. "Is it going to a daycare?"

Still a child, Yan Lan patted his head. His hair was like Yu Wenyao's—short and spiky. If it grew longer, it would look like a hedgehog standing straight up, which is why Yan Lan always had to take him for haircuts.

"Going to school isn't like daycare. Daycare is for playing, while school is for learning knowledge. You'll need to learn a lot to grow up and serve the country and become a useful person."

Yu Wenyao often told Yu Song this. Yu Song knew it, but he couldn't help asking, "Dad says joining the army is serving the country."

"Tsk, don't listen to his nonsense. It's not just joining the army. There are many things you can do if you study well. Think about it, who makes the cars you like? Does your dad know? People with education can make big cars. Isn't that serving the country?"

Yan Lan explained seriously. Yu Song suddenly understood, his eyes brightening. "Mom, you're also serving the country!"

"Ha!" Before Yan Lan could speak, Xu Yuqing couldn't help laughing. Yan Lan looked over, and Xu Yuqing apologized with clasped hands. "I didn't mean to laugh. It's just that Yu Song's face kept twitching when he spoke, and I couldn't help it."

Time was running out, and they couldn't delay any longer. Xu Yuqing gave Yan Lan a meaningful glance, turned around, and left the room to the two of them. As she stepped out, she realized Yu Wenyao had been standing outside the door all along.

Startled by the sudden appearance of an adult, Xu Yuqing asked, "Have you been standing here?"

Yu Wenyao nodded with a bitter smile. "Ah, what's wrong?"

Seeing him like this, Xu Yuqing felt uncomfortable. "Why don't you go in and talk?"

Yu Wenyao seemed tempted but shook his head. "No, let them have some mother-son time." He leaned against the wall, silent.

Seeing this, Xu Yuqing didn't say anything else. "I'll go get our luggage and come back soon."

"Okay."

When Xu Yuqing returned, Yan Lan had already finished. Seeing her red eyes, Xu Yuqing knew the outcome wasn't good. The station was far, so Yan Zi got on her bike. "Come, let me show you my skills."

On the other side, Yan Lan got on the back of Yu Wenyao's bike. The bicycles moved forward one after the other. Xu Yuqing held onto Yan Zi's waist, feeling a bit uncomfortable.

Yan Lan watched as Yan Zi wobbled. Though not riding herself, she still felt nervous. "Be careful! Don't throw us off. How long has it been since you last rode a bike?" She frowned disapprovingly.

Yan Zi gripped the handlebars, a bit indignant but unable to control the bike. However, she wouldn't admit it. "This bike is bigger than before; I'm not used to it!"

Hearing this stubborn reply, everyone couldn't help laughing. Xu Yuqing, sitting behind her, moved her hands from Yan Zi's waist to the seat, gripping the handle tightly.

As long as we don't fall, everything else is fine, she thought. Fortunately, Yan Zi had some experience and gradually got the hang of it. Xu Yuqing breathed a sigh of relief and relaxed her grip, feeling more at ease.

Time flew quickly on the ride. Before they knew it, they arrived. It was time to part again. Xu Yuqing and Yan Zi were okay, but Yu Wenyao's eyes were filled with tears, which he tried to hold back. "Wife, don't worry. Go ahead. I'll take care of the child!"

Yan Lan forced a smile, trying not to show her emotions. "Okay, remember to take care of yourself too. Apply medicine if you get hurt. If you can't find anyone, ask your mom or a comrade."

Yu Wenyao sniffed, his voice hoarse. "Mm."

Seeing him like this, Yan Lan felt even more reluctant to leave, but there was no choice. The train was about to depart. "Alright, we're leaving."

She grabbed the suitcase from Yu Wenyao, pulled Xu Yuqing, and walked away without looking back.

Xu Yuqing saw her demeanor and felt heartbroken. Why weren't there good schools in North City? Then their family wouldn't have to separate.

After getting on the train, Yan Lan put aside her melancholy. The car was nearly empty, but she remained cautious. She took out a notebook and pen, wrote a few words, and handed it to Xu Yuqing. "Take a look."

Xu Yuqing read: 'I brought six hundred yuan. I wonder if it's enough.'

Taking the pen, she scribbled: 'It should be enough. If not, we can go back later.'

Seeing Xu Yuqing's response, Yan Lan felt relieved. She had bought everything except a house. Thinking about buying a house made her nervous, but seeing Yuqing's calmness reassured her.

The journey continued, and Yan Lan, who hadn't slept well the night before, soon fell asleep despite the uncomfortable seat.

Seeing Yan Lan asleep, Xu Yuqing quieted down and took out a book. It was her professional textbook, and though the formal content hadn't started yet, Xu Yuqing wanted to get a head start.

Time passed quickly while reading. Before Xu Yuqing realized it, the train had arrived. The conductor announced the stop, and Xu Yuqing woke Yan Lan. They each grabbed their suitcases and hurried off the train.

After getting off, they didn't rush back. Xu Yuqing looked around, hoping to find someone knowledgeable about the area. Yan Lan, however, had more experience. She wandered around the exit and approached an older station worker.

"Comrade, I'd like to ask where I can go to reach the university?"

At the mention of Harbin University, the man's eyes lit up, and he enthusiastically began explaining.

Yan Lan smiled, looking at him. "Comrade, how long have you worked here? Your demeanor is impressive. You seem very reliable."

Everyone likes compliments. The man's attitude improved further. "Indeed, I've been working here for twenty years and am always the best employee!"

Yan Lan showed admiration, giving him a thumbs-up. "Brother, you're amazing! Actually, I'm here to study, and I have a child who needs to go to school. Are there any houses for sale nearby, preferably close to Harbin University?"

Smiling, Yan Lan secretly slipped a pack of cigarettes into his hand.

Xu Yuqing saw him hesitate before pocketing the cigarettes. They exchanged a brief glance, and Xu Yuqing quickly looked away, feeling awkward.

Clearing his throat, the man said, "Hmm, there aren't many houses for sale. Let me think." He checked the cigarettes, noting they were expensive, and his face brightened. "There is one that might fit your requirements. The son of the family died young, and the daughter married. The elderly couple wants to sell their house and move closer to their daughter. But they can be difficult."

Yan Lan saw hope and asked, "How difficult?"

He waved his hand. "They used to live in the village. Their son got a job and was allocated a house. When he died, they went to the factory demanding compensation. That's how they got the house. Otherwise, textile factory houses aren't given to outsiders."

Yan Lan hesitated, thinking it might be expensive. Xu Yuqing pondered, "Are there any other options?"

"Yes, but it's quite far from the school. It depends on where you plan to send your children to school. However, the schools available are all affiliated with the organizations. If you buy a house at the Textile Factory, you won't have to worry about finding a school."

The Textile Factory... Yan Lan hesitated. She wasn't sure what the environment was like there. What if it wasn't good? Moreover, the choice of school was paramount. If the school and the residential area were similar, why should she separate Yu Song from the place he grew up?

Sensing her hesitation, the man across from them guessed it might be due to financial concerns, worried that his offer of cigarettes might not be enough. He quickly added, "You should go and ask. It's just a bit more expensive. This couple moved out without a word once they got the money!"

"They're eager to sell this house too. If you stand firm, the price won't be much higher."

Xu Yuqing nodded and looked at Yan Lan. Yan Lan hesitated but finally decided to take a look before making a decision. If it was suitable, it might be their best option.

The two bid farewell to the man. "Shall we go directly to the Textile Factory?" Xu Yuqing asked.

Yan Lan nodded. "But we aren't employees; will they let us in?" She hesitated, but Xu Yuqing wasn't concerned. The Cannery also had family housing. While the factory itself couldn't be entered freely, the family housing was different, especially those farther away, which were unguarded.

It's just ordinary housing, Yan Lan nodded. They got into the car and headed towards the Textile Factory, bumping along the way.

Arriving at the Textile Factory, they realized it was close to Hacheng University, just a short turn away. They walked towards the residential area, noticing the Textile Factory's affiliated primary school, which seemed quite large. Yan Lan asked a few questions and learned that students from other backgrounds also attended.

So Yu Song shouldn't have any problems attending school here.

The environment looked much better than the Military District's residential area.

Entering the residential area, Xu Yuqing took a good look around. There weren't many people around, and they eventually found an old man sitting under a tree. Yan Lan approached him and asked, "Hello, sir. I heard someone is selling a house here. Could you tell me where it is?"

The old man, smoking a cheap pipe, stood up slowly and asked, "Why are you asking about houses for sale?"

Seeing his tone change, Yan Lan sized him up and decided, "I heard from relatives. Our place is a bit crowded, so we're looking for a new house. If it's suitable, we'll buy it." Yan Lan smiled.

The old man held his pipe and gestured for them to follow. Without waiting for them, he started walking.

The Textile Factory's residential area looked spacious, unlike some cramped areas in Jing City where four families shared a small house. Many trees were planted, and some residents even grew vegetables. As they walked further, they saw children playing in a designated area while their parents sat nearby on small stools.

Xu Yuqing glanced at Yan Lan. This environment was indeed nice. When the younger one grows up, Yan Lan's mother would have an easier time. Now, the only issue was the price.

They continued walking until the old man finally stopped in front of a four-story building. Clothes were drying on the ground floor. He led them to a middle apartment and said, "This is it."

He unlocked the door, and as they entered, Xu Yuqing gave Yan Lan a thumbs-up. Despite its exterior, the inside was surprisingly clean.

Yes, very clean.

Xu Yuqing and Yan Lan exchanged glances, surprised by how new everything looked, considering the elderly couple had lived there for years.

Noticing their reactions, the old man proudly said, "My wife went to buy groceries. She decides the price. Look around, but this house is truly clean. My wife is meticulous and doesn't even allow smoking inside."

Yan Lan was delighted with the condition. This exceeded her expectations. Her mother would love it, especially since it was move-in ready.

However, revealing their satisfaction could weaken their bargaining position. Yan Lan changed her expression and looked around critically. "It seems a bit dark."

Indeed, the living room was dim because clothes were drying outside.

Xu Yuqing circled the rooms and frowned, "There are only two bedrooms. That's not enough space."

The old man's expression soured. Xu Yuqing stopped, and the room fell silent. Yan Lan cleared her throat and asked, "When will your wife return? If the key isn't ready, we can look elsewhere—"

Before she finished, a thin elderly woman entered. Xu Yuqing greeted her first, "Auntie."

The woman surveyed the room and noticed their luggage. "You're here to see the house?"

Yan Lan nodded awkwardly, "Yes."

The aunt was clearly more experienced than the old man. Xu Yuqing felt a sense of unease, similar to dealing with He Xiuhua.

The woman put down her bag, filled with scraps of cloth and rotting vegetables. Xu Yuqing and Yan Lan exchanged glances. Yan Lan spoke, "Auntie, the house is nice, but it's a bit cramped. How much do you want for it?"

Xu Yuqing chimed in, pretending to be dissatisfied, "Sis, we've been saving for this. Buying a cramped house isn't worth it."

The woman observed their performance and changed her shoes, then approached them. "We're being honest. This house is great, and you can see that. We wouldn't sell it if not for our daughter. Twelve hundred yuan, and we can move out tomorrow."

Twelve hundred yuan!

Xu Yuqing's expression changed. This price was too high, especially for a two-bedroom house. Yan Lan was equally shocked. She had saved for years, and this house...

Their hesitation was evident. The woman sipped water and said, "If you're serious, eleven hundred yuan."

Xu Yuqing shook her head, "Sis, let's go. They don't seem sincere about selling."

Yan Lan reluctantly agreed, "Alright."

They turned to leave, but the woman saw Yan Lan's satisfaction earlier. She hesitated but chased after them.

"Wait! Come back and talk!"

Xu Yuqing and Yan Lan, who had been stopped by her, showed surprise in their eyes. It was Xu Yuqing's idea to walk away so decisively earlier. If she hadn't stopped them, they could have changed their minds later.

Now that they were stopped, it was the old lady who felt frustrated. Xu Yuqing wanted to continue being difficult, but seeing Yan Lan follow her back with an apparently angry look, she asked, "That house is so small. Why go back?"

Yan Lan paused, turned around, and looked at her with difficulty. "If you really aren't satisfied, we can leave? Shall we go see the other place?"

The other place? The old lady panicked upon hearing this and quickly intervened. No matter how many people were selling houses, they all needed buyers! Her health was declining, and she still needed her daughter's care. "Young lady, don't rush. Let me tell you, that room is quite large! Dividing it into two wouldn't be a problem! Just take a look!"

Xu Yuqing knew she couldn't push too far and reluctantly nodded, slowly walking back.

Yan Lan didn't inspect the house much and sat down with the old lady. The old man of the house was nowhere to be seen, seemingly uninvolved.

The old lady's attitude improved significantly. She tapped her mouth and smiled. "Young lady, just tell me how much you're willing to pay!"

Not following the script, Xu Yuqing pursed her lips. Seeing Yan Lan's hesitant expression, she tried to recall how He Xiuhua used to bargain. She circled the house and said, "Six hundred then. Look, this house isn't big."

Six hundred!? The old lady exclaimed, looking at Xu Yuqing with disapproval. Her gaze was sharp. "Daughter, you can't say things like that!"

Xu Yuqing gave a cold laugh. "How is it wrong? Six hundred yuan can buy a job, and less than six hundred would do. Four hundred yuan would suffice. I can get an apartment after five years, and if I perform well, it could be sooner!"

...

Her words left the old lady speechless. It was true; nowadays, hard work always brought rewards, but this price was too low!

"How can you talk like that? You've seen my house. It's brand new, the walls are white. People would believe it's new!" She pointed at the walls, the floor, and the ceiling, urging Yan Lan to look closely.

Yan Lan and Xu Yuqing exchanged glances, understanding her intention. Yan Lan didn't want to be too harsh, considering the old lady was elderly. "Tell us your price. If it's reasonable, we'll agree. I don't want any more trouble."

Tell us your price...

The old lady fell into deep thought. She opened her mouth several times but quickly closed it, unable to speak. After much deliberation, she finally said, "Eight hundred, eight hundred yuan!"

She said it firmly, as if there was no room for negotiation. Without eight hundred yuan, she'd rather keep the house.

A brief silence followed, and Xu Yuqing subtly nodded. Yan Lan glanced at her and smiled. "Eight hundred, okay."

Hearing this agreement, everyone present breathed a sigh of relief. Even the old man inside came out. The old lady's eyes sparkled with joy. "Really? When will you give the money? Let me clarify: you need to pay first before I can process the paperwork. Once it's done, I'll move out immediately!"

Her assurance relieved Yan Lan, even though it was a bit expensive but within her budget.

Xu Yuqing also relaxed, but knowing that delays could cause problems, she pulled Yan Lan aside. "Sister Yan Lan, are you paying now or waiting until the paperwork is done?"

Yan Lan hesitated. "I don't have enough cash on me. I need to go back to get it."

Hearing this, Xu Yuqing gave her a reproachful look. "I was planning to buy it too. Do you think I wouldn't bring money?"

Xu Yuqing's words made Yan Lan's eyes light up. Yes, borrowing the money now and repaying it later would work. The priority was bringing the child over. Seeing Yu Song's condition, Yan Lan felt truly distressed.

"Yuqing, can we finish the paperwork today?" Yan Lan asked excitedly.

Xu Yuqing understood Yan Lan's eagerness but had to temper her enthusiasm. "Sister, I know, but today is a day off. The housing office won't open until tomorrow, and we need approval from the Textile Factory leadership."

Given that the house originally belonged to the Textile Factory, the paperwork couldn't be avoided. "Sister, give one hundred yuan as a deposit and write a contract. We'll take a day off tomorrow to finalize everything," Xu Yuqing suggested, having carefully considered every word.

Yan Lan eagerly agreed. "Yes, yes. Let's go inside and discuss it. We'll send a telegram right away to prepare everything."

Having a house provided her peace of mind. At least if Yu Song didn't want to leave, she could bring him along. There seemed to be a daycare nearby, which would help if Yan Lan's mother didn't want to come.

They hurried back inside. The old couple watched them return and breathed a sigh of relief, fearing the young couple might change their minds.

Yan Lan walked in and said to the old couple, "I need to move in soon. Here's one hundred yuan as a deposit. We'll finalize the paperwork tomorrow morning and pay the rest then."

This news delighted the old couple, who nodded enthusiastically. "Good, good!"

With the major issue suddenly resolved, Yan Lan felt a sense of relief on their way home. "Finally, a huge burden has been lifted."

She smiled, and Xu Yuqing couldn't help but laugh. "I need to find a house in the Textile Factory too. We can't live apart."

Yan Lan chuckled. "Exactly. Why not make this house bigger, or get two, and we can live together forever."

Xu Yuqing laughed. "We don't need men. We can share a bed and save the cost of another house."

Though she was joking, Yan Lan's eyes lit up, finding the idea appealing.

"I think it's a great idea. We can stay here together. Their men can't come out anyway."

Xu Yuqing burst out laughing. "If Brother Yu finds out what you said, he'll hate me."

Hate? Yan Lan giggled, covering her mouth. "Let me tell you a secret. Brother Yu bites his fingers when he sleeps, just like a child. Look at Yu Song; he never does that."

Her bright eyes scanned the surroundings, afraid Yu Wenyao might suddenly appear. This was a long-kept secret. Even at night, Yan Lan would wake up to his biting.

Xu Yuqing couldn't imagine the tall Yu Wenyao biting his fingers and shook her head. "That image is terrifying."

Yan Lan laughed. "When we first got married, I was shocked too."

Who would have thought such a burly man would bite his fingers?

Xu Yuqing chuckled. "Sister Yan Lan, please spare your husband some dignity. Otherwise, I'll laugh every time I see Brother Yu."

As they walked back to school, enjoying the gentle breeze, they chatted about their husbands' quirks.

"Sister Yan Lan, let me tell you something. Xie Junli once learned something somewhere and knelt down during an argument..."

Xu Yuqing sighed, still feeling the psychological impact of that incident.

Yan Lan's eyes widened in surprise, sensing something ominous. Indeed, Xu Yuqing continued, "I asked why he suddenly knelt down. He said Brother Yu taught him that it doesn't matter what a man does wrong; just kneel and beg for forgiveness."

After a long silence, the two women stared at each other without saying a word. After a while, Yan Lan patted Xu Yuqing's shoulder, "When we get back, I'll give him a piece of my mind. Where has that man ever knelt before? Clearly he was just messing with you!"

Xu Yuqing hadn't expected the truth to be like this. But thinking about that night, although she found the kneeling unusual, she still felt happy when she thought about Xie Junli's intentions.

The two continued talking as they walked, finally reaching the bottom of Yan Lan's dormitory building. Though they wanted to keep chatting, both were tired. "Go back and rest. I'll come find you for dinner tonight."

"Okay."

Xu Yuqing nodded, watching Yan Lan walk up the stairs. She must have slept poorly last night, as she yawned while climbing.

Xu Yuqing stood there for a few seconds, then quickly turned and walked away. It wasn't far—just two buildings away. It was around three in the afternoon, and most people were resting, so the streets were empty except for birds in the trees.

She slowly walked back to her dormitory, standing outside the door and listening. Hearing no sound, she stepped lightly and carefully opened the door, walking inside.

The windows were covered by curtains that everyone had chipped in to buy because it was too bright otherwise, making it impossible to sleep during the day. Jiang Jianing had made them; her craftsmanship was excellent.

Xu Yuqing gently placed her suitcase down, not bothering to unpack. She slowly climbed into her bed and lay down.

Sighing contentedly, she soon fell asleep after the long walk at noon. She woke up to the murmur of voices in the dormitory, rubbing her eyes and checking her watch. She had slept for over half an hour.

Slowly getting out of bed, she asked, "Did you guys just wake up?"

Liu Pei turned to Xu Yuqing, her eyes shining. "You're finally awake! You wouldn't believe it, but after you left on Friday, many male classmates asked if you were married!"

Her eyes sparkled with curiosity, and her tone was gossipy. Xu Yuqing scratched her messy hair, not particularly concerned. "Didn't I say I was married when I introduced myself?"

"Huh, those men, they forget everything when they see your face. They even thought you were lying. Can you imagine lying about being married? That's just crazy." Liu Pei mercilessly criticized them, and Jiang Jiali nodded vigorously. "Exactly!"

Seeing how upset everyone was, Xu Yuqing paid a bit more attention. "It's okay. I'll just ignore them."

But Liu Pei didn't agree. "Let me tell you, if you just show your husband once, no man will dare to bother you again!"

With the physique she had seen, these men would be terrified. Even those who had been to the countryside weren't as strong or as fair-skinned. She believed that as soon as he appeared next to Yuqing, these men would understand what true beauty was.

Hearing Liu Pei's words, the others in the dormitory looked curiously at Xu Yuqing. Jiang Jianing, being older and having seen more, showed a hint of skepticism.

But Liu Pei, always one to stand her ground, saw Jiang Jianing's expression and couldn't help but argue. "I'm not exaggerating. He's really handsome! Yuqing is beautiful, so her husband must be equally handsome!"

Her firm conviction surprised Jiang Jianing, who quickly said, "Alright, I'll wait and see."

With that, the other four roommates all looked at Xu Yuqing. She was still tidying her clothes, not expecting the conversation to turn this way. She laughed and said, "I wish I knew. He's on a mission."

What?

Disappointment was evident on Liu Pei's face, and everyone's curiosity was piqued. "When will he be back? Blame Liu Pei for making me so curious!"

Everyone knew Liu Pei's family background and that they had military connections. If someone who was used to seeing soldiers praised him, it must mean something. The more they thought about it, the more curious they became.

Xu Yuqing, feeling cornered by their enthusiasm, could only admit, "If only I knew. Military missions can't even be discussed with spouses."

Liu Pei's face stiffened, seeing Xu Yuqing's matter-of-fact expression, and suddenly felt a tightness in her chest.

She understood military life well. If his mission couldn't be shared with his spouse, it must be highly classified. The hardships and dangers involved were unimaginable, and losing one's life was common.

No wonder he was so young and already a regiment commander. There's no free lunch, especially in the military. Every honor earned comes at a great cost.

Liu Pei's sudden silence dampened the mood, and the dormitory quieted down. Xu Yuqing finished tidying her new clothes and, seeing the time, prepared to go find Yan Lan for dinner.

As if by telepathy, Xu Yuqing met Yan Lan shortly after descending the stairs. Seeing her, Xu Yuqing couldn't help but laugh, running over and linking arms with her. "Let's go. I'm starving."

Having eaten only once since morning, she was famished. They hurried to the canteen, pushing open the door and heading straight for the serving window.

The food had just been served: two highland millet buns, tofu, cabbage with vermicelli, and tomato soup. Simple and plain, but not very tasty.

Xu Yuqing, driven by hunger, managed to finish her meal, feeling satisfied afterward. "Let's go for a walk to digest."

"Sure, tomorrow we'll have our own place. It feels like a dream!" Yan Lan looked at the sky, marveling at how fast everything was happening.

Xu Yuqing patted her hand. "Let's hope the paperwork goes smoothly tomorrow."

As if jinxed, the next day, Xu Yuqing wished she could go back in time and slap herself for saying that. Watching the old lady arguing with the textile factory leaders, she wiped her sweat.

"How is this house not ours? The contract clearly states it belongs to us, and we even put our fingerprints on it!"

The old lady jumped with every word, her small frame full of energy, pushing the men opposite her back.

"Auntie, I know you're anxious, but please calm down. The land belongs to the textile factory, not just the house. We've let you live here rent-free because of Comrade Zeng's contributions. Now you want to sell it, which doesn't make sense."

The man beside him nodded. "Yes, you can live here because of Comrade Zeng, but selling the house is different. The land belongs to the factory."

The argument went back and forth, with neither side winning.

Yan Lan, listening to the commotion, felt overwhelmed. She never imagined buying a house would involve such complications, but she really liked this place—it was clean and close.

"Uncle and Auntie, leaders, comrades, can I say something? If the land belongs to the textile factory, can we buy it?"