Chapter 103

Chapter 103

"Tang Qingqing, how do you plan to spend that day?" Tang Jidong's voice pulled Tang Qingqing's attention back.

Tang Qingqing was slightly taken aback and took a moment to understand what Tang Jidong meant.

"I'd rather wander around the city. I've been in Yang City for so long without going anywhere. But first, I want to explore the city and buy something for my master, and then visit some scenic spots."

No one knew how difficult it was for Tang Qingqing to say these words.

That voice kept trying to stop her, but Tang Qingqing refused to comply.

After saying this, she felt an inexplicable emptiness, as if she was about to lose something.

Moreover, that voice did not give up, persistently urging her to change her mind.

Tang Qingqing thought of the male protagonist in the book. Honestly, she was indeed curious about him.

In the book, the male and female protagonists were very happy. Although the male protagonist had been married before and had two children, his first marriage was arranged by the organization due to age, with little emotional depth between them; it was more out of a sense of responsibility.

The male protagonist and his ex-wife only spent a short time together, merely living together, which was different from the deep love and companionship between the main characters.

The two children lost their mother at birth, so they fully accepted the female protagonist as their mother, without any estrangement.

Regardless of whatever storms occurred outside, the family of four lived happily together, enjoying their small life.

Such a life held little attraction for the current Tang Qingqing. She felt she was still young and wanted to focus on her career rather than enter into marriage.

Although both could coexist, she believed it was a different lifestyle, not suitable for her current situation.

However, after reading so many stories, she couldn't help but wonder what the male protagonist looked like.

But that curiosity wasn't enough to make her obey that inexplicably appearing voice.

Tang Qingqing roughly guessed what that voice was—probably the so-called plot deity, insisting she attend the cultural performance, likely wanting her to meet the male protagonist and bring the plot back on track.

Tang Qingqing was unwilling. She didn't want to marry so early, nor did she want to take on the responsibility of two young lives right away.

She often struggled to take care of herself, needing reminders to eat, let alone handling such a heavy responsibility.

If she got married, no matter how energetic or smart she was, she couldn't possibly manage both taking care of children and studying, while occasionally helping the Public Security Bureau solve cases. She was already struggling to balance both.

As for missing out on a good man, Tang Qingqing didn't care.

Would this benefit Tang Zhenzhen?

Tang Qingqing still refused to sacrifice her future just to spite Tang Zhenzhen.

There were plenty of men; she could find another if she wanted.

The female protagonist and the male protagonist in the book were a perfect match, but that didn't mean the current her would be compatible with him.

She differed greatly from her character in the book, now being a completely different person. Thus, the pairing wouldn't work anymore.

The more Tang Qingqing thought about it, the clearer her mind became, further solidifying her resolve not to get involved.

As for why she didn't directly agree to Tang Jidong's suggestion, it was purely because she didn't want to make things easy for Tang Zhenzhen.

Tang Jidong suddenly suggesting this idea made Tang Qingqing realize there was something off.

Tang Jidong: "Why don't we go play first and then go shopping?"

Tang Jixue rolled his eyes: "Second Brother, what kind of arrangement is this? The streets are the most lively on National Day. If you're not exploring the city that day, you'll be in some remote area. How foolish."

"Tang Qingqing, Third Brother will take you out on National Day! There will be many activities in the city, and fireworks for an hour in the evening! They are all beautifully shaped ones, which you've never seen before."

Tang Qingqing's eyes lit up: "Wow, for that long?! That must cost a fortune."

Fireworks are beautiful but extremely expensive. In the countryside, families who can afford fireworks during the New Year can brag for a whole year.

During the previous New Year, she bought some sparklers and small fireworks, and Tang Xingqiang and Tang Xingsheng fawned over her the entire holiday.

"Then I'll bring a camera and take some photos of you. You can send them to your master later, so he can see too."

Hearing this, Tang Qingqing was deeply moved.

Her master was the person she cared about the most in the world. As long as he was there, she felt confident in everything she did.

This place was just a temporary residence; where her master was, that was her true home.

Tang Jixue noted this.

"Third Brother, thank you."

"What are you thanking me for! Just remember, taking photos at night might make your eyes glow green. Don't scare your master."

"Then take some during the day as well."

Although Tang Qingqing often wrote letters to Old Liu, she hadn't thought about sending photos until now.

Adding her photos to the letters would surely make the old man even happier.

Tang Jixue: "Sure, let's take the bus and wander around the city that day. We'll take pictures of our city's famous landmarks, so he can see what it looks like now."

Su Rong also chimed in: "Old Three, buy more film. Qingqing rarely takes photos, right? Take more this time."

If not for Tang Jixue's reminder, Su Rong would have forgotten.

Their family had owned a camera for a long time, starting with a black-and-white one and now a color one.

There were many photos of the children in the family, especially of Tang Zhenzhen. The photo albums were piled up like a mountain, capturing every important holiday and event from her childhood to the present.

Tang Qingqing, however, had not a single photo, which left Su Rong feeling quite uneasy.

Tang Jidong: "Mom, what about Zhenzhen?"

Su Rong was taken aback, almost forgetting about this issue.

If Tang Jixue took the camera, they wouldn't be able to take photos of Tang Zhenzhen.

She knew how much effort Tang Zhenzhen had put into this cultural performance; she had never worked so hard before, showing just how important it was to her.

It would also be difficult to borrow a camera for such a big event, as everyone needed one.

Su Rong felt torn; both sides were important, and she couldn't choose one over the other.

Tang Jixue: "What's the problem? We can rent one from a photography studio."

Su Rong was surprised. "Photography studios rent cameras?"

"They always have," Tang Jixue replied. "When business is slow, they can make some extra money by renting out their cameras."

Tang Jianguo slammed his teacup on the table. "That's using public property for personal gain! We can't rent such a camera!"

Hearing this, Tang Jixue felt a surge of anger.

"Fine, I'll rent one from a private photography studio. That should be acceptable, right?"

Tang Jianguo had no response.

"Qingqing, I know someone who runs a photography studio. His camera is much better than ours. He will definitely take beautiful photos of you. I wanted to rent his camera earlier, but since we have our own, I didn't mention it. This situation works out perfectly."

Tang Qingqing's cold gaze softened slightly. "Whatever works."

After Tang Qingqing went upstairs, Tang Jixue started to vent.

"Second Brother, were you hit by a door or something? How could you ask such a stupid question in front of Qingqing? And Dad, can't you pick a better time to talk about principles? Mom, you too—why hesitate when Qingqing is here? You can figure out a solution for Zhenzhen later. With your usual behavior, it's no wonder Qingqing doesn't feel close to you!

I'm really fed up with all of you. If you don't want to acknowledge Qingqing as your sister and daughter, then say it outright. Don't be so disgusting!"

Without waiting for a response, Tang Jixue stormed upstairs, unwilling to engage further.

The three people in the living room stood there silently, looking grim.

On the evening of September 30th, Tang Qingqing found herself unable to concentrate on her reading due to an incessant voice in her head.

There wasn't any specific sound, just a persistent urge to go see the performance.

Tang Qingqing was well aware that she had no interest in attending, yet the thought kept popping up.

This feeling was akin to a smoker trying to quit, constantly tempted by an inner voice. Those with weak willpower might easily give in.

She didn't sleep well that night, plagued by enticing dreams where her life became wonderfully happy after watching the performance.

Although Tang Qingqing couldn't recall the content of her dreams, the sweet sensation lingered, tempting her to change her mind.

Seeing the dark circles under Tang Qingqing's eyes, Tang Jixue was alarmed.

"Qingqing, did you stay up all night because you were excited?"

Tang Qingqing, usually calm and composed, merely smiled without explaining.

Tang Jixue had already planned their day trip and enthusiastically discussed it at the breakfast table.

To Tang Qingqing, his words sounded like a buzzing noise, making her increasingly annoyed by the interference.

Why should anyone interfere with her own decisions?

The more she felt this way, the more determined she was not to let such voices win, lest they continue to affect her in the future.

"Third Brother, let's leave now."

"Now? You haven't had breakfast yet."

Tang Qingqing: "We can eat out, try something different!"

Their breakfasts, though nutritious and delicious, were limited in variety.

"Sure! Today, I'll make sure you eat and enjoy everything. Trust me, I know all the best places in town. Wait a moment, I'll grab a camera."

Tang Jixue led Tang Qingqing through various alleys and into a small, unassuming shop.

Though the place was small and cluttered, it wasn't dirty, just crowded with many items.

"Don't judge this little shop by its appearance. The rice noodles here are fantastic. Even the most discerning foodies from Guangdong Province give it a thumbs up. They use only the finest new rice and follow strict preparation methods."

The rice noodles arrived quickly, and Tang Qingqing tasted them. Indeed, they were delicious.

Tang Qingqing had never tried rice noodles before and immediately fell in love with them.

However, Tang Jixue only allowed her two servings with different fillings. "Save some space for other things. Don't stuff yourself just because they're tasty; you won't be able to enjoy anything else later."

Tang Qingqing was still not satisfied. She had a big appetite now, and after eating two servings, her stomach still felt empty.

"Third Brother, you're amazing. How did you find such a place?"

Tang Jixue smiled and said, "Pretty good, right? I brought Zhenzhen here before, but she complained. She wanted to leave even though we were already here. She doesn't appreciate good food. You're much better than her!"

Tang Qingqing chuckled. "Third Brother, there's more to your words than meets the ear."

Tang Jixue laughed awkwardly. "Nothing escapes your eyes."

The scene from yesterday made Tang Jixue realize that they often overlooked Tang Qingqing's feelings in their daily lives.

Unlike Tang Zhenzhen, who always made a bigger fuss than necessary.

Don't be fooled by her seemingly aggressive demeanor; she declared upon entering the house that she and Tang Zhenzhen could never be friendly.

In reality, she was a quiet person who didn't like to express herself, keeping both good and bad feelings inside, which made everyone overlook her emotions.

"Third Brother, I don't mind those things."

Hearing this, Tang Jixue felt even worse. "No matter what others do, Third Brother will always treat you well."

Tang Jixue spent the whole day out with Tang Qingqing, taking several rolls of film. They returned home in the afternoon with bags full of purchases.

If it weren't for the inconvenience of carrying so many things, they would have stayed until the fireworks at night.

As Tang Qingqing walked past the convenience store, the owner called out to her.

"Qingqing, where have you been? Someone came looking for you and waited for a long time outside your house. They bought soda twice from me."

Tang Qingqing's heart skipped a beat. "Who was looking for me? Was it the Public Security Bureau?"

This couldn't be another serious case during the festival. The situation seemed grave if it was a case.

"It probably wasn't them; he wasn't wearing a police uniform. But he looked tall and strong, like someone in the military."

"In the military?"

A figure flashed through Tang Qingqing's mind, but she quickly dismissed it.

After thanking the store owner, Tang Qingqing hurried home.

From a distance, Tang Qingqing saw a familiar yet unfamiliar figure, and her pace gradually slowed down.

The neighbor's aunt said, "Qingqing, you're finally back! Someone came looking for you, but no one was home. He stood outside waiting for a long time. I asked him to come in, but he refused."

"Qingqing, who is this person? He looks handsome. Is he from the Public Security Bureau?"

The Public Security Bureau often sent young male officers to see Tang Qingqing.

Usually, it was the younger ones who ran errands, and most of the force was male, so it was usually male officers who visited her.

At first, some people gossiped, wondering if the young man was Tang Qingqing's boyfriend.

But over time, they became numb to it.

The older ladies still liked asking Tang Qingqing about these visitors, but not out of gossip; they just wanted to introduce them to potential partners.

Tang Qingqing smiled, and the neighbor's aunt was momentarily mesmerized. The Tang family's girl was truly beautiful; even she couldn't look away.

"Aunt Li, this is my friend."

With that, Tang Qingqing ran towards the tall figure ahead.

Tang Jixue followed behind, frowning. He had never seen Tang Qingqing smile so happily at anyone.

He quickened his pace, eager to see who this person was. As her brother, he needed to vet him.

"Yi Ge!"

Tang Qingqing's clear voice made the imposing Tang Jixue stop abruptly.

Tang Jixue sized up the tall man. As a man himself, Tang Jixue had to admit that this guy had a great appearance. His build and looks were outstanding.

Tang Jixue was usually very confident, believing himself to be incredibly handsome. But seeing Zhai Hongyi, he had to admit his superiority.

Not only did he look good, but his aura was impressive too. Most importantly, he had a sharp mind!

Tang Qingqing was overjoyed. She never expected Zhai Hongyi to appear here.

They hadn't seen each other for a long time, although they kept in touch through letters. Seeing him again evoked an indescribable feeling.

Familiar yet different, and not as she remembered.

Zhai Hongyi used to be tall, but he was still a teenager then. Now, his shoulders were broader, and he looked even taller. His features were more defined and mature, exuding a steady and mature aura with a hint of hidden aggression.

The youthful innocence was gone, but his presence was sharper than ever.

As Tang Qingqing approached, she felt slightly uncomfortable until Zhai Hongyi turned and smiled at her, dispelling any sense of strangeness.

Seeing Tang Qingqing, Zhai Hongyi was even more surprised.

The former tomboy had grown into a young woman, taller and more beautiful, standing out in a crowd.

He used to ruffle her hair like he did with Wang Heizi, but now he wouldn't dare.

"How did you get here? Why didn't you tell me beforehand!"

"Saying it in advance would ruin the surprise."

The two of them contained their excitement, standing face to face, constantly examining each other, searching for familiar traces.

But when they spoke, the sense of estrangement vanished instantly, as if they were back in the countryside.

Even though their appearances had changed significantly, their feelings remained undiminished.

Tang Qingqing realized they were still standing foolishly at the door and quickly opened it, leading Zhai Hongyi inside, completely forgetting about Tang Jixue.

Seeing his sister completely ignore him, Tang Jixue felt a mix of emotions.

His admiration for Zhai Hongyi diminished somewhat due to Tang Qingqing's differential treatment.

Zhai Hongyi smiled, "I wasn't sure if I could make it on time, so I didn't say anything in advance."

"If I hadn't come back to put something away, you'd have been waiting here for ages!"

Zhai Hongyi smiled, softening his sharp features.

"You waited for me for so long before; what does a short wait matter?"

Tang Qingqing looked Zhai Hongyi up and down, remembering what happened then, feeling a lump in her throat.

"Yige, are you alright now?"

Even though she knew the situation from letters and it had been a while, seeing him brought back those memories.

The helplessness she felt when Zhai Hongyi was taken away still made her uncomfortable.

This was a past neither she nor Wang Heizi liked to mention; it always brought sadness.

"Don't worry, everything is fine now. I'm different from before; I won't leave without saying goodbye again."

Only then did Tang Qingqing smile, holding back the tears that welled up in her reddened eyes.

Watching Tang Qingqing, Tang Jixue felt a surge of emotions.

He never knew Tang Qingqing had this side to her!

She always seemed calm and composed, sometimes even cold.

In this family, she often appeared distant, tough, and prickly, but facing Zhai Hongyi, she was like a little girl.

"Oh right, Yige, this is my Third Brother, Tang Jixue. Third Brother, this is Zhai Hongyi, the one Wang Heizi often mentions, Yige."

After a while, Tang Qingqing remembered there was someone else present.

Tang Jixue gave her a resentful look; he had been standing there unnoticed for so long.

Tang Qingqing felt embarrassed; Tang Jixue had spent the whole day with her, and she had forgotten about him in her excitement.

Zhai Hongyi stood up and greeted Tang Jixue, "Hello, Third Brother."

Tang Jixue replied, "You're a few months older than me."

Zhai Hongyi's birth date was well known to Tang Jixue, all from what he heard from Wang Heizi.

The two of them talked endlessly, especially about Zhai Hongyi, learning from his spirit.

Zhai Hongyi smiled, not explaining further.

"Tang Qingqing: Yige, how long can you stay in Yang City?"

"I have to leave early the day after tomorrow. This time, I can't stay long. During winter break, I'll come back and stay longer."

Tang Qingqing hesitated, "During winter break, I want to go back to Rongshan Brigade. I want to spend New Year's with my master."

Traveling back and forth was not easy, and Tang Qingqing wanted to spend more time with the old man.

"In that case, I'll go back with you. If I don't, Old Liu will scold me."

Zhai Hongyi lived with Old Liu for some time, and their relationship was good, despite not saying nice things about each other. In reality, they cared for each other.

Whenever Zhai Hongyi sent something to Tang Qingqing and Wang Heizi, he never forgot Old Liu.

"Will you have enough time?"

Zhai Hongyi was busier during breaks, especially winter break.

"Don't worry. Things are stable now, and I'm freer than before."

Hearing this, Tang Qingqing was delighted, "That's great! My master and Wang Heizi will be thrilled to see you. Wang Heizi's business is getting bigger, and he's meeting all sorts of people. You need to set him straight and keep him on the right path."

Tang Qingqing kept in touch with Qin Sa and knew Wang Heizi was surrounded by unsavory characters. Although he wasn't doing anything illegal yet, staying with such people could lead to trouble.

Zhai Hongyi nodded, "That kid needs a good talking-to."

Tang Jixue couldn't help but interject, "Qingqing, if you leave, we won't be able to celebrate New Year's together. Can't we—"

A family shouldn't be separated during New Year's.

"Third Brother, my master is alone, and I must go back. There are so many people here; one more or one less doesn't matter."

"It's not the same," Tang Jixue felt uneasy. "Can't we bring him here?"

Tang Qingqing laughed, "New Year's should be celebrated at home."