Chapter Thirteen: A Mother Knows Her Daughter Best

(1/3)

(1) As Xiao Qi entered the house, her parents had not yet returned, and the house was quiet. She hopped upstairs, humming cheerfully, “Will you still love me tomorrow...”

She quickly took a hot shower, then carefully opened a brocade box containing two carved golden eggplants, laying the one shaped like a little rabbit gently on her palm and examining it closely.

The little golden rabbit was carved so vividly, lifelike and charming. It stood upright with two ears perked, its small hands raised before its chest, eyes fixed straight ahead as if standing guard or searching for a companion.

She pressed the little rabbit to her chest, her face flushing. Gazing at her rosy reflection in the mirror, she said to herself, “Xiao Qi, you’re really hopeless.”

Then she looked at the other eggplant carved like a little ox, which lay there, adorable and quiet as if enjoying a rest after labor. Yet the ox’s eyes seemed to be staring at her continuously, prompting her to scold it playfully, “Look at you, silly thing.”

She arranged the two eggplants on her desk facing each other, comparing them. One appeared lively and spirited, the other simple and endearing. She found this amusing and wanted to keep watching them.

“Xiao Qi, are you home?” her mother’s voice called from downstairs, soon followed by footsteps ascending.

Xiao Qi hurriedly wrapped the two eggplants back into the brocade box and slipped it into the drawer.

Just as she finished, her mother, Jiang Sumei, entered the room.

“Mom, why didn’t you knock before coming into my room?” she teased softly.

“I haven’t seen you all week and got worried, so I forgot to knock. Where have you been these days? Why didn’t you even call?” Jiang Sumei asked gently, looking at her.

“Mom, I was on a business trip in Tongyuan for a few days and just got back today,” Xiao Qi replied with a smile.

“That doesn’t seem right. You seem to be hiding something from me,” Jiang Sumei said suspiciously, noticing the lingering blush on Xiao Qi’s face.

“Mom, your insight is sharp. How could I hide anything from you?” Xiao Qi said with a slightly guilty smile, hugging her mother’s arm.

“Is it about you and Fu Xin? Is there some new development?” Jiang Sumei asked again.

“Mom, what are you thinking? I just finished bathing—it’s hot water,” Xiao Qi said, not wanting to mention Fu Xin, hugging her mother and acting coy.

“I met Aunt Xin a few days ago. She asked about you, said you haven’t visited her for a long time,” Jiang Sumei continued.

“Mom, you always tell me to focus on my career. I’ve been too busy to visit,” Xiao Qi offered, thinking this was a solid excuse.

Seeing Xiao Qi unwilling to talk about Fu Xin, Jiang Sumei dropped the subject and said, “The day after tomorrow is your dad’s and my 30th wedding anniversary, and it’s Sunday. You must stay home with us. No running around.”

“Mom, I remember. How do you and Dad want to celebrate? At home or a hotel? Did you invite anyone else?” Xiao Qi asked.

“We’ll celebrate at home with a good meal. I invited your cousin Jiang Ke and her husband Zhao Jun, plus Fu Xin,” Jiang Sumei said.

“Mom, can I invite anyone else?” Xiao Qi asked.

“Invite Shen Jing too. I’ll have the cook prepare extra dishes. More young people, more lively,” Jiang Sumei agreed immediately upon being reminded of Xiao Qi’s best friend, Shen Jing.

“As you command, Mother,” Xiao Qi said with a grin.

“You’re a grown woman, yet still so childish,” Jiang Sumei chided affectionately, tapping her forehead.

(2)

Xiao Qi’s mother, Jiang Sumei, was a professor at West State University’s Law School. Her name was given by her grandfather, reflecting her ancestral roots in Suzhou and the season of blooming plum blossoms. Though she was over fifty, with slightly curled hair streaked with gray, she did not look old. She was slightly shorter than Xiao Qi, with fair skin and a resemblance to her daughter. Dressed professionally, her demeanor conveyed the intellectual grace and elegance of a female scholar.

Xiao Qi’s father, Bian Guoning, was a professor in the Chinese Literature Department at West State University, originally from West State. He and Jiang Sumei met and fell in love at the university, and now, decades later, they had been together for over thirty years.

Both were part of the 1964 class at West State University and had pursued graduate studies there in 1978. After graduation, they stayed on to teach until now.

Xiao Qi was their only daughter, their cherished gem. They loved her dearly yet did not spoil her—strict but not harsh, free but with boundaries, respectful yet not indulgent. Raised in such an environment, Xiao Qi was well-mannered and intelligent, beautiful but humble, smart without pretension, earnest without stubbornness, upright but not reckless, talented without arrogance.

Her well-rounded virtues earned her great favor among their colleagues and friends. Every household with a son around Xiao Qi's age wished to have her as their daughter-in-law. Whenever the topic arose, her parents welcomed it with smiles but never intervened, leaving the choice entirely to Xiao Qi.

The Fu Xin mentioned by Jiang Sumei was the only son of Professor Fu Tianyue, a colleague of Bian Guoning, a year older than Xiao Qi and currently a master’s student under Bian Guoning. Bian Guoning described Fu Xin as hardworking but lacking talent, far from outstanding and unsuitable for academic research. He accepted Fu Xin only as a favor to Fu Tianyue, who had long admired the beautiful and intelligent Xiao Qi and hoped to unite the two families through marriage. Fu Tianyue had even volunteered to become co-in-laws with Bian Guoning.

Bian Guoning neither approved nor disapproved, insisting the children handle their own affairs without parental interference. Jiang Sumei held the same view, neither encouraging nor obstructing, confident Xiao Qi would make the right choice.

Fu Xin’s mother, Xin Lifang, was anxious about the match, frequently visiting Jiang Sumei for meals, chats, and shopping, acting as if the two families were already closely connected. Whenever marriage between Fu Xin and Xiao Qi was mentioned, Jiang Sumei always replied that young people had their own opinions and should decide for themselves, urging Xin Lifang not to worry too much.

When Fu Xin was invited to Bian Guoning and Jiang Sumei’s 30th anniversary celebration, Xin Lifang assumed Xiao Qi had accepted him and was overjoyed, immediately preparing gifts with Fu Tianyue for the occasion.

Fu Tianyue commissioned a famous calligrapher from Sichuan Province to create a work as a gift for Bian Guoning. Xin Lifang bought a piece of Shu embroidery for Jiang Sumei. She also had a silk scarf given to her by someone else that she hadn’t worn, which she asked Fu Xin to give to Xiao Qi.

Xiao Qi and Fu Xin had known each other since childhood. She neither liked nor disliked him, treating him as an ordinary friend. Thus, when Jiang Sumei mentioned inviting Fu Xin, Xiao Qi didn’t mind or object.

Xiao Qi immediately called her best friend, Shen Jing: “Jing, the day after tomorrow is my parents’ 30th wedding anniversary. You must come—I only invited you.”

Shen Jing had been close to Xiao Qi since elementary school; they attended the same schools all the way through university and were inseparable, sharing everything. Shen Jing cherished freedom and disliked routine nine-to-five jobs; she owned a bar and wrote occasionally, living a carefree life.

“Xiao Qi, this is an important day for Professors Jiang and Bian. I need to prepare a gift. Tell me what I should bring,” Shen Jing said as soon as she answered the call.

“Jing, don’t buy anything. Just bring your boyfriend—that’s the best gift. Professor Jiang talks about you every day, always asking when you’ll get married,” Xiao Qi teased.

Xiao Qi was truthful—Jiang Sumei had already accepted Shen Jing as another daughter.

(2/3)

“Men? I long for freedom. Looks like dear Aunt Jiang will be disappointed,” Shen Jing laughed.

“You’ve been missing for a week. Where have you been? Hanging out with Fu Xin all day, forgetting me?” Shen Jing turned the teasing back on Xiao Qi.

“Dear Jing, please stop. I’ve been on a business trip. I called you as soon as I got back. Do you have a conscience? Who said Fu Xin is my boyfriend? I never admitted that,” Xiao Qi replied quickly.

“Will Fu Xin come to the party the day after tomorrow?” Shen Jing asked.

“It was Professors Jiang and Bian who invited him, not me. He can come or not—it’s none of my business. You should come early—I’ve missed you,” Xiao Qi said.

“You’re just stubborn. I’ll definitely come—I don’t want to miss the good food and drinks,” Shen Jing laughed.

After hanging up, Xiao Qi thought about Qin Ke. Should she bring him too? Smiling to herself, she hurried into her room.

(3)

In the morning, Xiao Qi went downstairs to the dining room for breakfast, seeing her father, Bian Guoning, reading the newspaper and drinking milk.

Bian Guoning was a year older than Jiang Sumei, of medium build, with a square face always smiling kindly, resembling a northerner. But his height, just over 1.7 meters, and fair skin revealed his southern roots.

Xiao Qi smiled warmly, “Good morning, Professor Bian!”

Bian Guoning put down the paper and smiled, “Xiao Qi, you should call me Dad, not like a stranger. The milk’s cold; do you want me to warm it?”

Xiao Qi sipped the milk and smiled, “Cold or warm is just right. Dad, the day after tomorrow is important. Mom wants to make it grand. Why are you suddenly so sentimental?”

“That’s your mom’s idea—she insisted on a ceremony. Just let her have her way. You must be home the day after tomorrow,” Bian Guoning laughed.

“What are you two whispering about?” Jiang Sumei came out from the kitchen carrying a plate of steaming soup dumplings.

“Professor Jiang, it’s Professor Bian talking about you behind your back,” Xiao Qi said with a smile.

“Nothing wrong with a ceremony; life needs some color. Your dad used to know how to create a romantic atmosphere, but now he’s becoming an old scholar in the Chinese department,” Jiang Sumei laughed.

“Mom’s right. Dear Professor Bian, where’s your refined charm? Your harmonious melody?” Xiao Qi feigned surprise.

“Two women putting on a show. Fine, fine, I’ll go along with you,” Bian Guoning said as he got up to go to work. While dressing, he asked, “Xiao Qi, how’s work lately?”

“Dad, broadening my horizons, feeling happy,” Xiao Qi replied casually.

“I want details,” Bian Guoning smiled.

“Professor Bian, you better get to work. I’ll tell you everything later,” Xiao Qi urged, laughing.

After he left, Jiang Sumei leaned close and smiled, “Xiao Qi, where does this happiness come from? Tell Mom.”

In a good mood, Xiao Qi recounted her recent trip to Tongyuan: how she made a commitment, worked overnight to solve technical issues within twelve hours, winning over the client; how she admired the stunning scenery of the Daba Mountains; how she dealt with the sly Jia Yunsheng at a banquet, feeling triumphant; how she dazzled everyone at the dance; and a harrowing moment on the plane.

Listening to Xiao Qi’s animated narration, Jiang Sumei was alternately amazed and alarmed, but saw no fear in her daughter, who seemed rather exhilarated.

“Rain sounds linger on the pillow, restless sleep long. The same Daba rain, tonight most vexing. Mom, this poem is wonderful,” Xiao Qi murmured.

“Hidden in Shu city waiting for recognition, yet unseen until the Daba night rain. This line touches my heart,” Jiang Sumei said, her face flushing.

Seeing Xiao Qi’s shy expression, the mother knew well—her daughter was in love.

She fixed her gaze on Xiao Qi and said, “Xiao Qi, you’re in love.”

Xiao Qi said nothing but nodded.

“That’s great. Is it Fu Xin?” Jiang Sumei asked excitedly.

“Mom, why bring up Fu Xin again? It’s a killjoy,” Xiao Qi frowned.

Jiang Sumei stopped eating and stared at her daughter. “Xiao Qi, if not Fu Xin, then who? You just got back from a trip and already like someone else?”

“Mom, I won’t tell you,” Xiao Qi put down her chopsticks and stood up.

“The day after tomorrow, yes, the day after tomorrow, bring him home so we can meet him,” Jiang Sumei stood too.

“Mom, he might not want to come,” Xiao Qi said.

“No, Xiao Qi, you must bring him. Though we believe in democracy at home, when it comes to your lifelong happiness, your father and I can’t just stand by. We have to give it our blessing,” Jiang Sumei said seriously, like she was addressing her students.

“Alright, Mom, I’ll try,” Xiao Qi said, looking at her caring mother and giving in.

“Mom, can you pack me a breakfast to go?” Xiao Qi asked.

Seeing her compliant daughter, Jiang Sumei packed a large breakfast.

“You’re so good, Mom. Thanks. I’m off to work,” Xiao Qi kissed Jiang Sumei’s cheek, grabbed two apples from the fridge, and happily left.

Watching her leave, Jiang Sumei was thoughtful and immediately called Bian Guoning to recount Xiao Qi’s demeanor in detail.

Bian Guoning was unconcerned and smiled, “Sumei, I trust our daughter’s judgment. I want to see who this young man is who’s captured Xiao Qi’s heart.”

(3/3)

(4) Early morning, Qin Ke called his boss, Zhou Pinyi, at the office: “Boss Zhou, the Tongyuan issue has been resolved. I’m reporting to you now.”

“You’re only reporting now? I was worried sick at the office,” Zhou Pinyi said.

“Boss Zhou, I was too busy these past days with so many engagements. I just got back to West State last night,” Qin Ke laughed.

“Show off all you want. No need to report anymore—I know everything. Who else dares to make such a commitment? Solving the problem in twelve hours—well done, you didn’t disgrace the company. Assigning Luo Tong to patrol in Tongyuan was also a smart move,” Zhou Pinyi praised.

“Boss Zhou, I’m not calling to brag. I want to ask if you can fulfill the promise you made me earlier?” Qin Ke said.

“I knew you wouldn’t call for nothing. Don’t worry, I won’t break my word. Hurry back, collect your money and take a vacation,” Zhou Pinyi said.

“Boss Zhou, I want to take my vacation in West State,” Qin Ke expressed.

“What’s wrong? Is the grass greener here? Lu Juan has asked about you several times; she even asked me today when you’d return,” Zhou Pinyi laughed.

“Boss Zhou, I...” Qin Ke felt uneasy hearing Lu Juan’s name again.

“Speak up, don’t hesitate,” Zhou Pinyi urged.

Thinking of Xiao Qi, Qin Ke stopped wavering. “Boss Zhou, please tell my wife to tell Lu Juan that we’re not suitable. I have someone else I like now.”

“Ha, I like your straightforwardness. But you’ll have to come back and say that to Lu Juan yourself,” Zhou Pinyi laughed.

Qin Ke hadn’t wanted to see Lu Juan again, but out of respect for Zhou Pinyi and his wife Du Yufen, he reluctantly agreed. “Alright then.”

When Xiao Qi arrived at the office, Qin Ke had just hung up the phone. She asked if he’d eaten breakfast; he said he hadn’t yet after calling the company. She then pulled out the breakfast she’d brought from home.

Seeing the plentiful breakfast, Qin Ke devoured the soup dumplings, fried egg, milk, and apples quickly, then smiled, “Xiao Qi, the breakfast was delicious. Thank you.”

Xiao Qi pretended not to have overheard his call and asked, “Anything important at work?”

“I hadn’t reported to my immediate boss, Zhou Pinyi, for several days. I just called him to update on my work in Tongyuan,” Qin Ke said.

“And?” Xiao Qi nudged, noticing his happy expression.

“Also, I asked him to fulfill his promise, and he agreed,” Qin Ke said happily.

“What promise?” Xiao Qi asked.

“He promised a three-day vacation and 800 yuan cash reward if I solved the Tongyuan problem,” Qin Ke said joyfully.

“How do you plan to spend the reward, Boss Zhou’s gift?” Xiao Qi asked.

“Xiao Qi, I’ll give you the 800 yuan. The carved eggplants are my gift to you,” Qin Ke said.

“That’s your reward—you earned it. I won’t take it, but you have to treat me,” Xiao Qi said.

“Deal. You deserve credit too. We’ll have a good time in West State for three days and eat well,” Qin Ke said happily.

“Anything else?” Xiao Qi asked, wanting the full story of the call.

“That’s all,” Qin Ke said calmly.

Seeing he didn’t want to say more, Xiao Qi let it go and said, “Qin Ke, I need to tell you something.”

“What is it? Say it. If I can, I won’t hesitate,” Qin Ke said.

“My mom wants you to come to our house as a guest the day after tomorrow,” Xiao Qi hesitated, then whispered.

“Ah? That’s so soon. Is it appropriate?” Qin Ke looked surprised.

“Soon? We’re already like this. What’s inappropriate? You’re not scared, are you? What are you afraid of?” Xiao Qi asked anxiously, cheeks flushed, fearing he might back out.

Qin Ke looked at her thoughtfully and said, “I’m not scared. Let’s go. I was going to visit your uncle and aunt sooner or later anyway.”

Seeing Qin Ke agree, Xiao Qi relaxed and smiled, “My parents are really nice. You’ll like them. Just behave well, and they’ll like you too.”

Qin Ke smiled, “Xiao Qi, this is my first time meeting your uncle and aunt. I should bring a gift, can’t go empty-handed.”

“No need. I’ve already prepared it,” Xiao Qi said, pulling a finely wrapped brocade box from her bag.

“What’s this?” Qin Ke asked, curious.

“I won’t tell you. You’ll know in time. My parents will love it. Just bring it with you,” Xiao Qi said mysteriously, smiling.

Qin Ke held the box, unable to guess what was inside, but touched by Xiao Qi’s thoughtfulness.