May 2nd—Zhou Xiaozheng and Zhou Jiao’s shared birthday. Eighteen years ago, this day welcomed the most precious daughter into Zhou Xiaozheng’s life. Similarly, forty-two years ago, his mother, in the depths of despair from losing her lover, gave birth to him.
That morning, father and daughter stood before the graves of Zhou Jinyu and Gu Mingzhu, burning paper money with heavy hearts. This was their private time for healing, and once they returned to the foot of the mountain, everything would start anew.
"Those who are gone are gone, the living must continue"—after the tears and the pain, life must go on.
Upon returning to the foot of the mountain, the driver took them to the restaurant. By then, the private room was filled with three tables of people, all quietly awaiting the arrival of the father and daughter.
Aside from the Cheng Family, Zhao Chuan Guang and his wife, and several of Zhou Xiaozheng’s life-and-death friends, the Lin Family was notably absent. Whether this was arranged by Old Mrs. Cheng or because Lin Lishan hadn’t invited them, Zhou Xiaozheng and Zhou Jiao did not inquire.
Mr. Lin was out on business, perhaps to avoid this banquet. Without Mr. Lin, the Lin Family seemed even more distanced from the Zhou family.
The banquet was entirely organized by Old Mrs. Cheng and Lin Lishan, and it wasn’t until this morning, before Zhou Xiaozheng and his daughter left, that they were notified. Everything was expected, yet unexpected.
"You’re here, come and eat noodles first. Longevity noodles to live long and happy every day," Old Mrs. Cheng smiled as the pair entered.
"I’m so sorry for being late. When did you all arrive?" Zhou Xiaozheng lightly supported the old lady and greeted everyone.
After sitting down, Zhou Jiao focused on her mother Lin Lishan’s reaction. Seeing no unusual behavior, she didn’t bring it up.
Zhou Xiaozheng symbolically took a bite first, then quickly put down his chopsticks and said, "Everyone, don’t be polite, we’re all family here. Aunt, serve the dishes, please."
"Brother Zheng, we’re in no hurry. You and Jiao Jiao finish the noodles first. The noodles made by the older generation will grant you a long life."
Listening to everyone, Zhou Xiaozheng noticed that a few brothers had come alone, "Why didn’t you bring your families? These days, Ah Guang and your sisters-in-law will need your hospitality, I will go south and return quickly."
"The wives and sisters-in-law couldn’t get off work, we’ll all meet again tonight. Brother Zheng, remember to be there on time tonight."
......
Last night, everyone gathered, and the itinerary for the coming days was set. After the birthday banquet, tomorrow the whole family, except for Lin Lishan who had to arrange for the group’s performance tasks, would head south with Mr. and Mrs. Cheng to visit and pay respects to the old home in Jiangnan.
Returning to Beijing, facing the Lin Family would be a matter for later. Zhou Jiao noticed her parents didn’t mention visiting Mrs. Lin and Gu Ruyi, so she pretended not to hear or see anything.
At this moment, watching Zhao Chuan Guang making a scene to propose a toast, Zhou Jiao’s mind was already made up. Taking advantage of her godfather and godmother staying at the guesthouse tonight, she planned to follow them and return home late to avoid the three Lin Xuezhen sisters.
As the banquet was halfway through the drinks, the atmosphere became even more harmonious and lively. Zhao Chuan Guang, naturally lively, led everyone to relax and joke around.



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