Rebirth in the 50s: The Couple with the Hidden Space novel Chapter 541

Chapter 541: Chapter 424: This Prodigal Son!

After sending off Li Qinglin, Zhou Xiaozheng’s second urgent telegram arrived again.

Mother Zhang finally picked an auspicious day for the journey.

They attended a farewell banquet organized by friends and relatives.

The night before their departure, the couple took gifts and personally visited the old principal.

The old principal’s home was simply furnished. For years, this elder had supported impoverished students, and now he was eating throat-scratching cornbread and a plate of pickled vegetables.

"Why haven’t you returned to Beijing yet? Don’t miss the registration deadline."

Zhang Guoqing hurriedly stopped him when he was about to get up, "Please, continue eating first. We’re leaving tomorrow, and we wanted to say goodbye before we go."

The old principal’s wife was a refined old lady who wore cheongsams for many years, only changing her attire in the last couple of years. At this moment, she had her grandson serve two cups of warm water.

"Let’s eat first and then talk. Xiao Wu, you’re like family, no need for formalities."

"It’s Mistress who says it best. Slowly enjoy your meal, there’s no rush. We’d like to sit for a while too. If you’re gulping down your food, does it mean you don’t want to entertain guests?"

The old principal laughed, "You, young man, are always so witty, making everything sound reasonable. This time when you two return to Beijing, study hard and strive to contribute more to the country, achieve significant accomplishments, and benefit the people."

Zhang Guoqing waved his hand, "Please don’t pressure me. I’m just an ordinary citizen, doing my duty is enough. Those goals are too lofty and hard to reach. Spare me from that."

The old principal jestingly scolded, "Such lack of ambition. I want to live a few more years to see your future achievements. Retreating before the battle is not like you."

"Wandering through life, one inevitably gets hurt. Weather changes unpredictably; stability is best. Honestly, I haven’t thought of accomplishing anything major. Keeping my family safe is enough of a wish for me."

The old principal and his family laughed heartily.

"You’re due to retire this year, aren’t you?"

After finishing his meal, the old principal returned to his chair, took a sip of tea, and shook his head, "I can’t let go of the school. Currently considering."

Zhang Guoqing and Zhou Jiao exchanged a glance, then laughed, "If you don’t retire, how will other teachers get a chance? Retire early, enjoy family life, and accompany Mistress on some outings."

The old principal looked at him skeptically, then turned to Zhou Jiao, who had been smiling, "Do you agree with Xiao Wu’s view?"

Zhou Jiao nodded, "Companionship in old age is essential. You’re always busy working; you should spend the remaining years with Mistress. Detached from mundane affairs, peacefully enjoying old age and calmly observing the changes in the world would be wonderful."

The old principal’s hand holding the cup trembled a bit as he smiled at his wife beside him, "It seems these young ones are standing up for you. How did you recruit them?"

"Haha, with warm water."

The old principal laughed heartily, not every time with just warm water.

After discussing this topic, the couple began to share amusing anecdotes in unison.

After sitting for over half an hour, Zhou Jiao discreetly left the gift behind, stood up to bid farewell with Zhang Guoqing, and left.

After they left, the old principal silently held his tea, and no one knew what he contemplated. The only difference from the usual was that when the new semester began, he was never seen at the school again.

Early the next morning, Zhao Chuan Guang came to the county again in his car.

Before getting in, Zhang Guoqing and Zhou Jiao took a deep look at their parents, siblings, mentors, and friends like Zhao Dashan and Zuo Lin, and a tearful Zhao Yuanyuan.

"Xiao Wu, look after Jiao Jiao outside. Discuss issues between the two of you and take care of the child." — This was Mr. Zhang’s advice.

"Remember to eat well and stay warm outside, return home early for New Year. Your mother will be waiting at home for your return." — This was Mother Zhang’s cheerful words.

Many people’s reminders and cheerful words were deeply etched in their minds. They were truly reluctant to part with these friends and relatives who had shown them kindness and care. Fortunately, they still had time to reunite.

Zhang Guoqing looked at his parents, suppressing his emotions, and solemnly told Zhang Guofu and his sibling, "Brother, second brother, I’m entrusting our parents to you. Once I’m settled there, you guys escort them onto the train."

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