Life always imposes too much on people

Li Zhiming felt somewhat uncomfortable and said, "Mom, please don't say that. It makes me quite upset. Is there something I did wrong that made you angry..."

Li Zhiming realized that he had to say something

Li Zhiming took his mother out of the consultation room and couldn't help but mutter under his breath, "What has happened to doctors nowadays? Do they take pleasure in retaliating against patients? Mom, let's change hospitals. To hell with their academic authority. In Beijing, there aren't many authorities left; I refuse to believe we can't find someone who can speak properly."

Are you coming? I want to take my aunt to eat something delicious

Watching the two of them enjoying each other's company, Li Zhiming, who had suffered a heavy blow that day, felt as if he were melting like ice cream

"It was Xiaofu who insisted that I drive this car, so I could pick her up and drop her off from work. Usually, I take the initiative to cover the expenses for maintenance and fuel. She doesn't like to drive much, and since I have the time, it makes sense. Moreover, our relationship has reached this point."

Zhiming... if I say I don't want to take care of your mother, would you be angry

Xiaofu chuckled softly, grabbed the keys from the table, stood up, and said, "Let's go!"

What wind has blown you here today, learning to skip work on your first day? Although my father is backing you, it shouldn't be too exaggerated

Zhihao was idly biting the straw of his cola when he saw Li Zhiming and immediately stood up as if by reflex, almost saluting. Li Zhiming was very pleased with his reaction. Yes, this is the sense of respect that a younger brother should have for an older brother who is striving outside. Children should not be spoiled; once they are spoiled, there is no end to it, especially with boys

This matter has been settled! We have a free nanny; I will call Xiaofu to take care of you, allowing her to fulfill her duties as a daughter-in-law in advance. She usually has a light workload at her job, so taking care of you will not take much of her time

"Then how long do you think is appropriate to raise it?" Li Zhiming said with utmost respect.

A bucket of water, to be precise, a full bucket of dirty water, accompanied by a scream that could pierce through the roof, poured over Li Zhiming from head to toe in a manner that was overwhelming and exuberant

She is Meng Chunjiao, meticulous yet foolish, seemingly simple yet profoundly wise, experiencing misfortune, and deeply understanding me, Meng Chunjiao.

Tumor? ! '' Xiaofu spilled the coffee in her hand, splattering some on herself, and frantically searched for a tissue. Li Zhiming shook his head inwardly and handed over the tissue from his pocket

Ah? Cooking? You are well aware of my limited culinary skills...

At this moment, this song is so out of place that Li Zhiming decisively pressed the next track, and "Small Town Story" began to play.

On his first day at work, Li Zhiming wore a mid-range brand suit that he had purchased on sale, looking exceptionally dashing. Xiaofu did not like to drive, and since she had taken on the great task of being driven, her car was temporarily being driven by Li Zhiming. In the morning, as Li Zhiming drove on the Fifth Ring Road, he rolled down the window, and a gentle, fresh breeze blew in. The greenery outside was vibrant and full of life. He listened to a CD by Xu Wei, gazing at the brilliant sunlight ahead, and suddenly felt a sense of having no regrets.

Aunt, look, he always bullies me

Out of a mindset that he could not quite explain, Li Zhiming timely intervened to stop her

"Mom, please don't say such discouraging things, you will be fine." Li Zhiming understood the meaning behind his mother's words, and tears immediately welled up in his eyes. He wiped them away and tried hard to smile, "No one knows a child better than a mother; you hit my soft spot with just one poke, and if you say more, it will only make me overthink."

I don't need money for the time being, I just want... to ask you to take care of my mother, is that alright? She is already in Beijing now, and since you have a relatively light workload, it would be sufficient for you to go and cook for her every day.

Hanging up the phone, Li Zhiming glanced at himself in the mirror and suddenly burst into laughter. That smile was somewhat bittersweet, as life had transformed from a tragic drama into an absurd one

Upon arriving at Li Zhiming's small studio apartment, he took out the key to unlock the door, while his mother followed behind, feeling somewhat reserved. Li Zhiming shook his head and smiled at her

Li Zhiming is now impeccably dressed in a suit, looking quite dapper. Although she is also clean and tidy, there exists an invisible yet unfathomable chasm that has been sharply drawn between the two of them.

Mother finally smiled. Having aged and endured the fatigue of travel, she needed to take a nap first. After seeing her fall asleep, Li Zhiming called a friend in Beijing to contact the hospital. Having stayed in the hotel for a while, he was fortunate to know a few friends familiar with this system. After finishing the call in the restroom and confirming all the arrangements, he sat on the toilet and smoked a cigarette

This thing surely won't do any harm if I eat it, anyway, I'm using my dad's card; he is a water bottle man, completely oblivious to money.

Li Zhiming sighed, "Mom, from now on, no matter what happens, you must be the first to tell me, the first, do you understand? If you don't tell me, who else can you tell? Seeing you bear it all alone, how can I not feel distressed?"

What are you supporting? It makes it seem like my mother is very seriously ill.

Indeed, you are not mistaken; Li Zhiming encountered an unexpected calamity in a conference room of a five-star resort

I am just doing a little something casually, it's not tiring. You must be Xiaofu, right? Come, let me take a good look at you.

8

I am timid, and you know that. Well... if you need money, just feel free to ask me. Although I haven't saved much since I started working, my father has money.

2

"I wouldn't dare, I wouldn't dare." Li Zhiming immediately broke into a sweat, but there was also a smile on his face. Li Zhiming particularly appreciated this aspect of his future father-in-law; one could call it a sense of humor, or, less charitably, one could say he was always unserious. Although Li Zhiming appeared serious on the outside, he was also a rather unserious person on the inside. Whenever he met his father-in-law, he often felt a sense of regret for not having met him sooner. "I really haven't changed the subject; what I mean is, even if I want to pursue this, Xiaofu might not necessarily want it. I haven't even saved up my 'three hundred' yet, so how could I dare to easily marry Xiaofu?" Although Li Zhiming appeared serious on the outside, he was also a rather unserious person on the inside. Whenever he met his father-in-law, he often felt a sense of regret for not having met him sooner. "I really haven't changed the subject; what I mean is, even if I want to pursue this, Xiaofu might not necessarily want it. I haven't even saved up my 'three hundred' yet, so how could I dare to easily marry Xiaofu?"

"Zhiming, Mom actually has nothing major to discuss, it's all because Zhihao asked me to come..." Mom explained to Li Zhiming, who understood that she was afraid of making him worry

Nanny? Zhiming, I think we should not spend this money...

Li Zhiming sat down on the chair, looking deflated, in a damp suit that had a slight odor

"Well, I won't say anything next time." Chun Jiao smiled innocently, taking small steps to the door. Suddenly, she paused, turned around, and sincerely said to Li Zhiming, "Thank you, Zhiming. I originally... I originally thought you would pretend not to know me."

"Cough, it's nothing, just a bucket of water, it will disperse upon contact with water. I never expected to run into you here, how many years has it been since we last met?" Li Zhiming attempted to ease the awkward atmosphere on site by reminiscing.

Go buy some supplements for our mother, she has come to Beijing, and I must make an appearance as soon as possible

Do not understand yet force yourself to understand

Ah? Why?

This impact is essentially equivalent to a girl appearing before you on your wedding day, standing there with tearful eyes and saying: Your Majesty, do you still remember the summer rain lotus by the Daming Lake back in the day...

Li Zhiming looked at the clock; his mother had slept for half an hour. For an afternoon nap, this duration was just right. He woke his mother and took her to the hospital

Mother, that is an outdated mindset; Xiaofu has not shown any signs here that she cannot wait.

Tears flowed down without warning, and Li Zhiming appeared quiet and sorrowful, as if he had aged instantly. Five minutes later, he stood up, and in the mirror, he saw a tall and imposing figure. Li Zhiming knew that he had long been the pillar of this family

In Li Zhiming's office, Chun Jiao was wearing a standard cleaner's uniform, freshly laundered to the point of being almost blue.

Then let's come back in a month to check it out again said the angel in white with a smile that was neither a smile nor a frown as she looked at Li Zhiming, while Li Zhiming only wished to rip off those nonexistent wings and devour him alive

This... is not very appropriate, after all, she is a young lady from Beijing, spoiled and pampered, how can you expect her to take care of mother...

I understand. At that moment, if someone discovers that we know each other, it will be even more difficult for you to speak. After all these years, you are still so easily overly sensitive, fearing that others will misunderstand you

The instigator is Li Zhiming

Li Zhiming appeared in the lobby looking completely refreshed. Today is not a weekend, and there are not many guests, only a few companies from out of town staying for meetings. He methodically arranged his responsibilities, and by the time the morning had passed, no one mentioned the earlier incident. Like snow leaving no trace, those in the hotel industry always professionally bury any unpleasantness in an instant. As for whether the melting snow heralds spring or something else, no one has ever considered it. Like snow leaving no trace, those in the hotel industry always professionally bury any unpleasantness in an instant. As for whether the melting snow heralds spring or something else, no one has ever considered it

"Quite good, quite good." Indeed, it is quite good; Li Zhiming has no temper with her, so the two of them are particularly harmonious.

"Chun Jiao, what are you doing here?" Li Zhiming's voice was as dry as if a cactus had grown in his throat

Sigh, I really don't think it's a big deal. I only came this time because Zhihao insisted that I do so. You know, my health has always been quite good

The shadow? '' Li Zhiming's bag on his shoulder sank, and he slowly turned around, '' Mom, why didn't you tell me earlier? ''

Do you really understand

"Zhihao, wait a moment!" Li Zhiming called out to him, taking a few steps forward, and pulled out his wallet from his pocket. "You are home alone, so I will give you some money, just in case you need it."

Li Zhiming lit a cigarette, and his head involuntarily drooped down, "My mother is ill"

Li Zhiming forced a smile, extended his hand, and in a tone that was half weak and half commanding, said, "Xiaofu, give it to me, I will just take one."

"Let's eat at home, Xiaofu, Auntie will make you Shandong cuisine"

However, all wonderful feelings are fleeting; Li Zhiming's sensation quickly vanished within ten minutes after he started work

Ha," Li Zhiming also laughed, then shook his head, "Still, Chun Jiao, you understand me. How have you been lately?"

Should I say you are foolish or should I say you are clever? She is my mother, and it is certainly like writing a college entrance examination essay, where one must first downplay before elevating, do you understand? Sigh, I need to return to the hotel; today is my first day at work, and I must see it through to the end

In the office, Li Zhiming first encountered his future father-in-law, Sun Wen, who was the direct superior of Li Zhiming's immediate boss. Therefore, Li Zhiming felt as nervous as a quail in front of him. He spoke to Li Zhiming in a grand manner, and when he saw that no one was around, he asked Li Zhiming with a slight smile and a serious tone: "How have you and Xiaofu been recently?"

In a moment, the culprit and the towel appeared before Li Zhiming simultaneously. Just as Li Zhiming was about to make an example of one to warn others, the culprit raised his head, and Li Zhiming was instantly struck.

Before entering the conference room, Li Zhiming deliberately waited until just before the meeting was about to start, striving to create a sense of being the center of attention.

It is precisely because everything has been going well that one must pay attention as one ages. You are no longer in your youth.

Then I will take my leave, as there is still quite a bit of work to do. You can change out of your clothes later and just throw them on the sofa; I will come and take them to the laundry. At this moment, Chun Jiao became professional and efficient. Li Zhiming knew that this was part of the training at this five-star resort, and as for her efficiency, that was something Chun Jiao had possessed since childhood

Whether you do well or not is secondary; the key is to make my mother, your future mother-in-law, feel your sincerity

After the peak of check-ins, Li Zhiming attempted to return to the office for a drink of water and to catch his breath. A long career can always teach you how to take a breather amidst busyness; there is no leisure to be stolen in the workplace, only laziness.

"Can you let me finish? Is that okay?" Zhihao has also learned to interrupt Li Zhiming, "Mom is sick!"

Mother no longer spoke, grasping Li Zhiming's hand to signify compromise

Zhiming ... ...

"I can't let you two exchange information like this. Keep it down, will you? You need to help maintain my grand image."

This is not a trivial matter, but let's not discuss it any further. The important thing now is for you to take good care of yourself. Starting today, you should eat various supplements at home; your son has plenty of money.

Chun Jiao clearly recognized Li Zhiming, her eyes widened with uncertainty

Then you bought it for your dad to eat, I understand my mother's personality; she would absolutely not accept such a heavy gift

Mother affectionately reached out to pull Xiaofu onto the sofa, while Li Zhiming began to wipe the unfinished floor, listening attentively and somewhat nervously to the initial conversation between the two.

Anxiously watching the doctor examine his mother's X-rays in the consultation room, Li Zhiming felt his legs weaken under the doctor's serious expression. His mother remained silent, her heart as calm as still water, which made Li Zhiming feel even more distressed.

If so, it can be called love

Perhaps I should return to Shandong, and come back after a month. No one is cooking for Zhihao, and the college entrance examination is approaching

Mother, is this how you behave when you come to my place? If outsiders see this, they might think I treat you poorly

Li Zhiming gave Chun Jiao a glance and said in a cold, emotionless voice devoid of any color: "Please come with me to the office."

"Alright, Mom, let's hurry and go with Brother. There are so many people here that I'm feeling dizzy. I will take the next bullet train back to Shandong; it only takes four hours, and I can still make it in time for evening study sessions." Zhihao had a look of disinterest in the conversation, turning to leave. Li Zhiming looked at his back and thought to himself, when did this kid grow to be almost as tall as I am.

1

Sorry... Spring Jiao's voice was very soft, like a mosquito

I am at Beijing Station

For the first time, Li Zhiming felt a fleeting sense of powerlessness regarding his future with Xiaofu. However, he quickly burned away this moment of helplessness. He told himself that precisely because of this, he should strive desperately to cherish it.

"Hello, brother, this is Zhihao." Zhihao's voice was immersed in a sea of noise

Li Zhiming seems like the most incompetent actor, playing a story that even he cannot believe, and the name of this story is called reality

I am not as spoiled as you think, am I, Zhiming

Mother detected the fleeting choked sob in Li Zhiming's voice, pursed her lips, reached out to pat his shoulder, and remained silent, saying nothing more

Li Zhiming approached, silently picked up the small travel bag placed aside, and slung it over his shoulder. The bag was light, yet it should contain all of his mother's treasures

What are the three points? Has the country introduced a new policy?

Li Zhiming's position after changing jobs is that of a lobby manager, a role that is both the most demanding and the most soulful in a hotel. The employees under his supervision are undoubtedly the most outstanding yet the most challenging group to manage in the entire hotel, making this inaugural speech particularly significant

"As long as it is benign, as long as it is benign." Xiaofu's face was filled with fear, her hand instinctively placed on her chest, as if to hold down her heart that was about to leap out.

Go ahead, come to my house for a meal when you have time. I will prepare delicious braised chicken pieces and taro for both of you to enjoy

It is precisely because you are not a foreigner that you are not allowed to make the purchase. If it were a foreigner, I would be secretly pleased from the sidelines

Li Zhiming asked for leave from his future father-in-law, merely stating that his mother had come to Beijing and was feeling a bit unwell for a check-up. Being as astute as Sun Wen, he naturally did not inquire further, only expressing appropriate concern, reassuring Li Zhiming, and allowing him to leave

You rascal! In the future, my father-in-law will give Li Zhiming a hard pat on the shoulder and say, "Trying to change the subject with me? You're a bit too naive, aren't you?"

However, Li Zhiming does not believe that tears are only unrecognized in Moscow; it is the same everywhere.

Ah, Mom said that your work is important, don't...

Beijing Station? What are you doing in Beijing? You are now a senior in high school, every second counts..." Before Zhihao could finish his sentence, he was interrupted by Li Zhiming, and countless negative thoughts surged into his mind: adolescent rebellion? Running away from home? Escaping after a passionate murder?

When it comes to illness, my mother fell silent, while Teresa Teng sang: "It seems like a painting, it sounds like a song, the true, the good, and the beautiful of life are all included here"

This is unrelated to whether Li Zhiming likes Xiao Fu; it pertains to nature. Regardless of whether Li Zhiming is a man who dissolves the wind in his blood, this is significant for him concerning the future of the latter half of his life

What are you saying? Li Zhiming's legs are a bit weak, what illness is it? Is Mom with you? Let Mom answer the phone

Li Zhiming adjusted his emotions and stepped out of the restroom. Xiaofu and his mother were discussing something about him, and the two of them were laughing joyfully

At the McDonald's across from Beijing Station, which was crowded to the point of despair, Li Zhiming encountered Zhihao and his mother. Amidst the throng of heads, his mother spotted him and first offered him a somewhat pale smile, a smile that was a bit ingratiating and carried a hint of "I hope I’m not causing you trouble," which made Li Zhiming's nose tingle and quickly enveloped his vision in a layer of gentle mist.

3

Does she understand? What does she understand? Does she know that I, Li Zhiming, am a fickle and ungrateful person who would absolutely forget my roots for wealth? Moreover, what do I even consider as wealth? In his heart, Li Zhiming continuously echoed such a monologue with a roar.

"Chun Jiao, really, it's nothing. I know I shouldn't have interrupted you just now..."

"They didn't speak properly," Mother advised Li Zhiming, "I think the attitude is quite good, and what was said is all the plain truth"

Alright, thank you for your hard work

Xiaofu raised a victorious smile and skipped joyfully to the counter to check out. Li Zhiming watched her figure, feeling both a sense of comfort and sadness in his heart

This is not for me to decide; you need to show my mother how you are not spoiled.

Aunt, this is to help me see you clearly, to prevent the true nature of your big bad wolf from being revealed after it is too late. Xiao Fu deliberately pouted her lips

4

Chun Jiao smiled broadly once again, this time completely unguarded, her white teeth candidly revealing eight of them, as if flowers blooming in the spring breeze

Hehe, Xiaofu, you can just relax and eat to your heart's content.

Once they got in the car, Mother sat in the passenger seat, and Li Zhiming fastened her seatbelt. He took out a CD to play, it was Teresa Teng's, which Mother loved to listen to

Li Zhiming patted her on the head, "Is it really necessary? It's not like you have cancer, why are you so scared."

There is no harm in secretly enjoying oneself

Before Zhihao could finish speaking, Zhiming hung up the phone. Regardless of whether today is the first day of work, one should perform well.

The air in the office seemed to freeze in an instant, as they were immersed in a wonderful haze, as if in a stalemate

The first song is "When Will You Return Again," a song that both Mom and Dad like. When I was young, Dad told Li Zhiming that the melody of this song is cheerful yet very sad, but Li Zhiming did not understand; now I finally understand, yet I somewhat do not want to understand

"Hehe, mom is smiling so widely that she can't close her mouth. If he dares to bully you, just come and tell auntie, he will get what he deserves"

Can we stop saying these unfamiliar words? I am feeling unwell all over now

Li Zhiming glanced at the price; a small box costs 4,900. He looked again at Xiaofu's gaze and realized he could not refuse, so he could only smile wryly and nod in resignation

Li Zhiming, who is not particularly sentimental, suddenly found himself surrounded by a sense of loneliness, and he felt a somewhat affected sting in his nose

"Hi, those things on television are all fake, do you believe them?" Li Zhiming attempted to change the subject

Xiaofu, my mother only has a benign tumor and does not need this thing

Where are you going

She pouted, "No smoking! You need to learn to cherish your body, alright? Based on the principle of looking out for other girls' welfare, I must also stop you."

"Don't say that, you absolutely won't have any issues, I won't allow you to have any problems." Li Zhiming felt a lump in his throat again; he believed that he had exhausted his quota of sentimentality for the entire year in just one day.

"Brother, don't listen to Mom. The doctor said there are shadows in the abdomen and still said it's nothing serious!" Zhihao scoffed

Li Zhiming resembled a large Michelin baby slug, awkwardly wiping the water off his body

Is there a tumor in the abdomen

I am afraid you will worry ... ... At first, I just felt pain in my abdomen, and I didn't think it would be a serious issue ... ... '' Mother seems timid, as if she were a child who has done something wrong

Li Zhiming, you must come back. What is there for me to say to your mother? This is already my limit

Having known me for these past few years, what kind of person do you think I am

Do not say anything more, you will be fine

"Auntie is the best," Xiaofu said, resting her head against her mother's embrace, resembling a docile little lamb; this was her trump card

"No need, Mom left me her pension savings book, so I just use it for meals every day, it doesn't cost much. If I need anything, I'll just call you." Zhihao smiled with a hint of innocence and naivety, then turned and ran away. His back was youthful and vibrant, leaving Li Zhiming momentarily stunned, as he realized that these two words had already drifted a bit far from him.

Li Zhiming gently picked her up; she was so thin that she seemed to be nothing but a pile of bones

With a smile on his face, like a victorious little rooster, Li Zhiming began his inaugural speech with a leisurely pace

5

I thought she had changed, and I also thought I had changed, but the reality is that we are both still the same as before

"Let's go!" Li Zhiming turned to his mother and said

It should be benign. The few words slowly uttered by the doctor sounded like heavenly music to Li Zhiming's ears, and he almost wanted to grab his mother's hand and spin around on the spot. However, the patient's various health indicators are quite poor, so I recommend waiting for a while before proceeding with the surgery, as this is a major operation. Moreover, considering the situation at the hospital, even if we schedule the surgery now, it would take about half a month before a bed becomes available.

What exactly is this concept? Sun Wen feigned seriousness, "I have been watching many television matchmaking programs recently, and I am quite anxious. There are not many reliable young men like you and reliable young women like Xiaofu. When will you two get things sorted out for me?"

"Who is it!" Li Zhiming felt his voice tremble, and the corner of his eye quickly swept over his future subordinates, each of their faces turning red like radishes. Li Zhiming knew that they were all brimming with laughter.

However, when her hand reached for a box containing nearly 1,000 ginseng roots, Li Zhiming realized he had to intervene

Dear esteemed employees of Austin, I am your new direct supervisor. As we meet for the first time, I look forward to your support. My name is Li Zhiming

Li Zhiming felt extremely distressed. He bit his lip and placed her on the bed. The door closed, and he sighed as he slumped down on the sofa

You need to change your temper; whenever something happens, you get angry immediately, just like your father.

I mean, just in case ... ...

She is already very tired from the journey, so let's wait until we meet to discuss it. We are planning to take the subway to your place; at which station should we get off

They sat down on the chairs in front of Starbucks, and Li Zhiming took out a cigarette, which was snatched away by Xiaofu.

Mother smiled, still reserved, "You have grown up, you are no longer a child. Mother has come to your place, so I can be considered half a guest."

After saying this, she quickly closed the door and left. This is Chun Jiao; she understands that Li Zhiming would not know how to respond.

Li Zhiming knew that someone as sensitive as her must have been somewhat hurt by the moment he just recognized her as himself and then stopped it

I am not an outsider after all

"I see your face is so long it might touch the table," Xiaofu leaned over, resting like a kitten on Li Zhiming's shoulder, and softly said, "I'm sorry, Zhiming, could you forgive my selfishness just this once? Youth is so short, and I am not yet ready to bear such a great responsibility"

As soon as he stepped into the office, his phone rang, and Li Zhiming's heart suddenly began to race inexplicably. He picked it up to see that it was a call from Zhihao. It was strange; shouldn't this child be in his senior year classroom at this time, diligently working on his exam papers like a silkworm spinning silk?

Twenty minutes later, Li Zhiming arrived at Xiaofu's workplace. He glanced at his watch; it was 2:30 PM. Meanwhile, Xiaofu had already been waiting at the entrance of the Starbucks in front of the office, her smile radiant. Li Zhiming parked the car and walked over, and she handed him a cup of "Frappuccino".

I sent my mother back home, and she leaned sideways on the sofa, falling asleep shortly after

Then forget it, I was just saying it casually, I still have the money to hire a caregiver

"That would be more like it. I estimate that if I had just said a year, he would have echoed that too"

This is exactly right! What a trivial matter, seeing you handle it so seriously, as if the Kuomintang were planning to retake the mainland.

Not expressing oneself and not truly feeling that way are two different matters; a mother is a woman, and a mother understands a woman's heart

A man must first establish a family before pursuing a career. Moreover, you are in your prime, and the woman cannot wait.

The primary task now is to persuade Xiaofu to take care of Mother, thereby indirectly providing them both with an opportunity to accompany each other in their later years

Xiaofu hesitated for a moment and obediently handed the cigarette to Li Zhiming, "What’s wrong, Zhiming? What happened?"

In that moment, Li Zhiming's heart suddenly tightened.

Mother smiled with a hint of embarrassment, wiped the sweat from her face, resembling a child who had done something wrong

After Chun Jiao closed the door and went out, Li Zhiming was momentarily lost in thought. He then checked the time and hurriedly went out to retrieve another set of clothes from the trunk of the car. He was indeed a person who was always prepared for the unexpected. Xiaofu had laughed at him countless times, comparing him to a squirrel, a person with a reserve mentality. Li Zhiming also joked that she was a flower in a greenhouse, unaware that life could catch one off guard at any moment. However, after the laughter, he couldn't help but feel envious of Xiaofu. If everyone's life were as fraught with anxiety as his, what would be the point of living? It would be better for everyone to imitate the collective suicide of sperm whales.

6

"What happened? Where are you?" Li Zhiming knew that this child was not yet at a level where he could engage in conversation with him. As the elder brother, he was destined to be disliked and labeled with a "do not disturb" tag.

These three characters resonate powerfully, as if an atomic bomb fell on Hiroshima, and Hiroshima is Li Zhiming

"Is mom sick? What illness does she have?" The concern in Xiaofu's tone was genuine, and Li Zhiming felt a sense of relief.

No, he is already an adult and won't starve. Just listen to me, take good care of him at home, and I will find a caregiver to look after him and prepare meals for him

Be good, baby, I believe in you! Kisses. "Li Zhiming held the steering wheel with one hand and sent this perfunctory text message with the other, then tossed the phone onto the passenger seat, no longer wanting to deal with it.

The morning sunlight streamed in through the window behind her, falling on her shoulder, as she lowered her head, not daring to look at Li Zhiming

I am truly sorry. If you have a change of clothes, may I take them to the laundry department to have them cleaned for you? Chun Jiao finally lifted her head, her eyes filled with concern and a pitiful look. Of course, Li Zhiming realized that the object of this concern was not him, but rather his outfit.

At this moment, Li Zhiming feels a bit like hitting himself

As soon as the words left his mouth, Li Zhiming regretted it. What nonsense is this? How good can it be to work as a cleaning lady in a hotel? Can one fly to the moon?

Aunt, you just arrived in Beijing today, and I am the host, so how can I let you cook? But look at me, I have been spoiled by my father and I can't even make a single dish

Confident and eloquent, Li Zhiming had absolutely no idea that in approximately ten seconds, disaster would strike.

Li Zhiming patted Xiaofu's head and said, "It's nothing, I understand"

Then let's get things done sooner. You are not young anymore, having a child is always a good thing. While your mother is still in good health, she can help you take care of the child.

Aunt, I should have come to see you long ago. However, every year when Zhiming comes home, it just so happens that I am unavailable.

"That is hard to say." The doctor seemed rather dismissive of Li Zhiming's question. Li Zhiming understood that perhaps his question was so foolish that it made the doctor chuckle in disbelief. However, regardless of the doctor's disdain, Li Zhiming could not accept it, either psychologically or physically. Hard to say? You are a doctor, and you tell me it's hard to say? Li Zhiming almost cursed under his breath, but he forced a smile on his face, saying, "You have experience; any advice would be appreciated, perhaps a month?"

Hmm?

Li Zhiming walked out of his future father-in-law's office, and he was unaware that a fine sweat had already formed on his forehead. He had an inexplicable sense of detachment towards his elders; no matter how kind the other party was, Li Zhiming's nerves could not help but remain tense. Xiaofu had scolded Li Zhiming several times, saying that this was one of the inherent flaws of a "Phoenix Man." However, Li Zhiming did not share this view; he believed that one must show utmost respect to their elders, which was his life creed. Additionally, another reason for the fine sweat was that since Sun Wen had said so, Li Zhiming knew that the matter of marriage was imminent. Like all normal men, at this juncture, Li Zhiming's only instinct was to subconsciously escape

Xiaofu almost raided Tongrentang for purchases, and Li Zhiming did not stop her, knowing that she was expressing her apology in her own way

Are you still in good health? There is no rush to handle matters. I am 28 years old, in the prime of my life. I would like to achieve some significant progress in my career before proceeding.

When Li Zhiming and Xiaofu entered the house carrying bags of various sizes, their mother was already awake, busily mopping the floor with a "huff and puff" sound. Upon seeing this, Li Zhiming snatched the mop away from her and almost reproachfully said to his mother: "What are you doing? Do you have to push your son to his death before you are happy?"

Understood! I need to discuss this matter with Xiaofu again, so... am I going to the office now?

At the moment Li Zhiming turned around, he saw a flicker of emotion in Chun Jiao's eyes that could barely be interpreted as the flame of "meeting an old friend in a foreign land" or some other sentiment, which extinguished in an instant. She followed him like a maid who had made a mistake, timid and apprehensive.

After stepping out, just as the car started, Xiaofu's text message came in

Countless times, Li Zhiming had thought about his encounter with Chun Jiao, but no matter how hard he tried to figure it out, he never expected it to be this one

At this moment, Li Zhi can indeed shed tears, and he can also pretentiously let the wind dry them.

Let's go, Mom! I will support you

Well, as for the matters of you young people, I shall not interfere. However, everything is now in place, so do take care of it yourselves

7

Li Zhiming's face suddenly stiffened, but he tried his best to make it look less unsightly. Xiaofu's actions were, in fact, quite justifiable; after all, why should she be expected to work like a servant for him?

How could one dare

"Alright, alright, I won't say anything more. Mother will live well and wait to hold her grandchild."

"Alright, let's talk about it later. What matters now is your health."

Li Zhiming saw her lips slowly coming together, gradually about to form his name.

If something were to happen to Mom ... ...

Is it appropriate for you to drive the girl's family car like this? Mother casually asked.

You rascal! While you haven't studied other subjects well, you have certainly learned to be quite glib.

Just as Li Zhiming was momentarily immersed in happiness, his phone rang. Upon checking, he saw it was the hotel calling, and he walked silently to the bathroom to answer it

It should be me saying sorry, fortunately it is you, otherwise I would definitely have been fired

Those with insight quickly handed over a full box of tissues and then turned around to fetch towels from the housekeeping department

"That works too." Xiaofu was taken aback for a moment, but she readily agreed, although her gaze towards Li Zhiming was already one of seeking help. Li Zhiming knew that Xiaofu was afraid of chatting with her parents, and the way things had turned out today had already given her enough face, yet he still pretended not to see and hurriedly left the house.

Therefore, she unilaterally terminated this conversation to spare Li Zhiming from any embarrassment

Li Zhiming has finally developed a sense of fear towards life, a fear of loneliness, and a fear of being unloved.

Mother is ill, so why are you still taking the subway? Wait for me at Beijing Station, I will arrive in half an hour. It will be crowded there, take good care of Mother.

It is comforting that, no matter how one puts it, Xiaofu is a kind girl. Yet it is saddening that such a wonderful girl, who deserves to be cherished for a lifetime and is free from worries about food and clothing, why, of all people, did she have to be with him

"Chun Jiao, I truly have no other intentions. At that moment, instinctively, I just..."

However, soon, Li Zhiming decided not to think too much. A new official takes office with great enthusiasm; he must first ignite his own initial spark.

Ah, the two of you pushing and yielding to each other here makes me a bit uncomfortable. Mom, listen to Xiaofu, let's go out to eat today. Xiaofu, I will try my best to come back on time; if Mom gets hungry, you can take her to eat first.

Then can I buy this cordyceps sinensis? It is anti-tumor.

"You child..." Mother shook her head, still smiling, but her eyes had become somewhat misty. "Zhiming, the reason I say this is to help you understand that some things in this world should be taken lightly. Just like our relationship as mother and son, it is all a matter of fate. I cannot express how proud I am to have a child like you. However, fate is something that will eventually come to an end one day..." Just like our relationship as mother and son, it is all a matter of fate. I cannot express how proud I am to have a child like you. However, fate is something that will eventually come to an end one day..."

It is not rush hour; in Beijing at around 10 o'clock, the traffic is so smooth that it brings one to tears

"It's quite good," Chun Jiao said without sensitivity, smiling again, "The work here is not hard, and the benefits are good. I can save quite a bit of money every month."

Are you angry with me

"What does it matter whether she is a miss or not? She is your future daughter-in-law, and it is her duty to take care of you in any city. It is settled just like that"

That's good, that's good... Li Zhiming truly had nothing more to say, and he touched the non-existent beads of sweat on his head.

The person standing in front of Li Zhiming, whose face was filled with embarrassment, turned out to be his high school girlfriend, Meng Chunjiao

Zhiming... to be honest, even if my parents were ill, I wouldn't have the determination to take care of them. I am quite clear about myself; I believe I was born without the ability to care for others. Do you think this works? I will pay to hire a caregiver for our mother, the best kind, which would definitely be much better than me taking care of her myself.

The hospitals in Beijing are filled with people as far as the eye can see, a myriad of sorrowful and bleak clouds hanging heavily in the air, and Li Zhiming, influenced by the atmosphere, feels even more anxious.

Li Zhiming's smile is still frozen on his face

"Manager Li, something big has happened, you need to come back quickly." The receptionist's words struck Li Zhiming like a bolt from the blue, is this what they mean by misfortunes never come singly?

At the very least, it is the same as when we were still in love with each other.

Well, the tumor is merely benign

Alright, I will find time to go over in the next few days, as the cravings in my stomach have been stirred up

Houses, cars, and money, this really has nothing to do with the country; it is all a result of the rampant spread of negative social trends.

At that moment, the entire world fell silent

Living is too lonely; it is time to find someone to walk through life with me

"Don't say anymore," Chun Jiao's lips curled into a faint smile, yet it made Li Zhiming feel a pang of heartache, "I understand."

In a place like our hometown, it is better not to go. A girl as delicately crafted as you might find it difficult to adapt if you went there