Zhou Jiao thought the conversation should be just about wrapped up. She hadn’t even reached the courtyard when she heard Zhao Yuanyuan burst out laughing. Shaking her head speechlessly, she then smiled silently.
— Truly a pair of fools!
She thought about it and deliberately made some noise to announce her presence. She was genuinely worried that these two young people, caught up in their passion, might forget where they were.
"Jiao Jiao, take me shopping on the streets. I’m leaving tomorrow night," Zhao Yuanyuan shouted loudly, jumping out of Zhang Yuntao’s arms after hearing voices outside.
Zhou Jiao raised her eyebrows in surprise and then swiftly realized it was probably time for them to get married. She laughed, "Make sure to send a telegram before the wedding, I’ll hurry back."
"It’s okay if you don’t make it, but definitely give two red envelopes."
Zhou Jiao nodded with a chuckle, "Congratulations to the happy couple."
Zhang Guoqing and Li Qinglin, having arranged the telegrams, walked in to see Zhang Yuntao grinning from ear to ear, knowing it was settled. They were all happy for him, finally putting an end to the drama.
"Can we head out now?"
"Where to?"
"Today, let’s go shopping and taste some of Beijing’s delicacies. Tomorrow morning we’ll watch the flag-raising ceremony, then visit a few tourist spots for some photos, and after that, we’ll just hang out wherever seems fun. How does that sound?"
Everyone agreed with Zhang Guoqing’s suggestion.
Walking down the street, Zhang Guoqing carried his son and chatted with Li Qinglin about family matters, while Zhang Yuntao walked on the outer part of the sidewalk, protectively chatting with Zhao Yuanyuan, who was walking with Zhou Jiao ahead.
"You see, that’s the power of love. Yuntao took a step forward and found his happiness. Lin Zi, don’t wait around for things to happen. If you want something, go after it."
Zhang Guoqing didn’t know what happened between Li Qinglin and that girl, but he certainly didn’t want him to continue suffering. If someone’s left, you can go find them. Why self-torment?
If it were him, Zhang Guoqing would have already made a move rather than dilly-dally. When he chased after Zhou Jiao, how hopeless was that? Many advised him to give up, but in the end? He still got the beauty.
"I’ll consider it."
"If it’s really impossible, then be decisive and let go. If I’m not mistaken, Uncle Li is probably already picking out prospective daughters-in-law."
Li Qinglin understood the meaning behind his words. If he had someone in mind, he needed to speak up early to prevent his father from opposing him by choosing someone he liked.
"Before finding her, I want to have a thorough talk with my dad."
"Uncle Li thinks of everything for your sake. If the conversation doesn’t go well, don’t get mad, just share your thoughts more, don’t go against him."
Li Qinglin laughed, "You’re truly my dad’s son. Don’t worry, I’ll be careful."
Zhang Guoqing chuckled. With that, the matter was laid to rest. He then changed the subject.
What does it mean to risk life accompanying a gentleman? Zhou Jiao always knew Zhao Yuanyuan was good at shopping. She could happily stroll through every market without buying anything, but she didn’t expect her to be this intense.
From morning until noon, she didn’t even seem to have tired legs.
Nearing noon, Zhou Jiao was dead set against walking anymore, "Let’s eat first. I’ll take you to try something delicious. You say you’re not buying anything, so what’s the fun in shopping?"
"Prices here are similar to the provincial city. I’d be a fool to carry anything back. Ah, I just love the hustle and bustle; it’s so lively."
After lunch, Ping’an was the first to suggest going back. He was too fed up with his aunt, certainly not having fun.
Seeing that the three gentlemen were also losing interest, Zhou Jiao said with a smile, "Let’s go to Houhai for some sightseeing and ice skating."
Before Zhao Yuanyuan could agree, Zhang Yuntao was overjoyed, glad to have the chance to hold his girlfriend’s hand while skating, "That’s a great idea, it’s been a while since we skated together."
Zhang Guoqing had no objections, as long as his wife was happy.
Li Qinglin had even less of a reason to object. What purpose does a man have wandering through malls?


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