The north wind howled, blowing the leaves off the trees lining the road, with rain mixed into snowflakes. A paper umbrella tilted towards one side, held by Zhang Guoqing over Zhou Jiao.
"Brother, move your elbow over a bit."
Zhang Guoqing smiled indifferently and said, "It’s okay, just a few more steps. This time Fang Fei had a daughter, he’s happy about it, but his wife is a bit upset. Be careful later."
Zhou Jiao snorted with laughter.
"If you like her, talk more. If not, we can sit for a while and leave. I already gave a gift right after their daughter was born. We’re just going for a quick visit now."
Zhou Jiao nodded. She didn’t want to meddle in other people’s affairs. To her, this attitude was sickening! What’s wrong with having a daughter as the first child? Her in-laws didn’t mind, but she’s being petty. Why doesn’t she consider that she’s a woman too, where do these sexist thoughts come from?
At the Fang house, Zhou Jiao noticed quite a crowd in the living room; even the eldest daughter of the Fang family was there with her family. Was this a full family gathering?
"I heard you just got home today, why not spend more time with your child, come by tomorrow?" Grandma Fang stood up with a smile, taking Zhou Jiao’s hand warmly.
"I missed Xiao Min. Is she inside?"
"You sisters have such a special bond. Quickly, go inside and see our little one, she’s so adorable."
Zhou Jiao nodded repeatedly with a smile, glanced at the crowd, nodded, and left. Greeting everyone one by one would be quite tiring.
"Xiao Wu, come sit over here."
Zhang Guoqing moved over next to Mr. Fang, "Is my brother Xiao Fei on duty tonight?"
Mr. Fang nodded, "Are you heading to the camp during the holidays?"
"Not sure yet, I’ll check in a few days." Zhang Guoqing glanced around and joked, "Grandpa Fang, are you having a family meeting? Should I step out?"
"You can listen in. Your niece is having her full month celebration, and we are debating whether to hold a banquet."
Zhang Guoqing replied with a smile, "Only your family is so united and democratic. Mr. Fang, if you give the order, these uncles, aunts, and uncles will follow your lead without objection."
Aunt Fang laughed heartily, "This child, Xiao Wu, really knows how to talk, no wonder everyone likes you. Come to the market in a few days, I’ll save some good things for you."
"That sounds great. Auntie, you are like a real aunt to me!" Zhang Guoqing chimed in with her. She was opportunistic but no doubt very skilled.
He didn’t bother thinking about how she’d change if he was down and out. They weren’t even related; how could you demand genuine treatment?
"Is your mother-in-law home?"
Zhang Guoqing smiled and nodded, "Come over to my place if you have time. My mom is usually at home when she’s not on duty; you old friends can chat."
Aunt Fang’s smile became even more sincere, "Not today; it’s too late. I’ll find her for shopping later."
"That sounds good. She’s usually busy, working or taking care of us, and you all can relax by going out together."
Everyone present watched them happily. Aunt Fang’s second aunt chuckled, aware of Lin Lishan, who also lived in the big courtyard. What’s there to unwind from?
Such a fortunate woman; who wouldn’t envy her? A doting husband, protective daughter and son-in-law, their grandson ready to fight anyone for her.
"Come on, tell me how that wireless connection project is going?" As their conversation ended, the technically inclined Father Fang turned to Zhang Guoqing to chat.
Wow, this was the perfect question for Zhang Guoqing. As long as it wasn’t sensitive, academic topics made great conversation at gatherings.


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