Chapter 90: The Art of Getting Along

Zhou Jiao, her face full of worry, said to Old Master Lin, “Grandpa, when you go back this time, you have to keep an eye on my mom. Make sure my dad is really safe, okay? And see if all the loose ends with my uncle have really been tied up. This is really important—we can’t just take their word for it.”

Old Master Lin nodded.

Zhou Jiao continued, “And about my dad’s job—I talked to my mom last night about transferring back to the Northeast, and honestly, I’m worried. I know my grandpa best, and I’m afraid of him. But if they stay in Beijing, will they get caught up in factional struggles? I don’t want my dad to climb any higher. I just want him and my mom to live a peaceful, stable life. There’s nothing more important than the family being together and safe. Can you help me analyze the situation?”

Old Master Lin nodded again. “There are factions everywhere, even in the Northeast. It all depends on your skills, and your dad isn’t lacking in that. Besides, after all these years, who knows what he’s really thinking? I’ll ask him when I see him.”

Zhou Jiao thought for a moment and nodded. “I guess we can only wait until we see him in person. We’ll talk then. Grandpa, can you pass on a message for me? Tell my dad he doesn’t need to worry about me—he should do whatever he wants, as long as he and my mom are safe. He doesn’t need to try and get me any kind of background or connections. I can work hard for myself.”

“I understand. I’ll make sure to tell him. Anything else?”

“Yeah, just tell him not to always keep my whereabouts in mind when he’s thinking about work arrangements. Xiao Wu and I won’t stay in the Northeast forever. According to our plan, we’ll be leaving soon anyway. As for where we’ll go, tell him not to worry about it. I’ll decide once I know where they end up.”

Old Master Lin chuckled. “Alright, is there anything else? Tell me everything, so I can pass it all on when I see him.”

Zhou Jiao shook her head. The rest was personal, so she’d talk to her dad directly later. “Nothing else for now. If I think of anything, I’ll tell him myself. It’s all small stuff anyway.”

Old Master Lin took a slip of paper from his pocket. “Here’s Grandpa’s phone number—direct line. If there’s an emergency, you can reach me right away.”

Zhou Jiao flashed him a sweet, ingratiating smile, looking at him hopefully. “Grandpa, could you maybe talk to… you know who?” She pointed upward.

Old Master Lin raised an eyebrow. “He doesn’t bother with small matters. What is it? Tell me.”

Zhou Jiao tugged at her mother’s hand coquettishly. Lin Lishan smiled and said to her father, “She wants some of his calligraphy, and she hopes he can write a few words to leave behind as a family heirloom for Ping An when he grows up.”

“Oh? What do you want him to write? It can’t be just anything, and there’s no guarantee you’ll get it. If you just want ordinary calligraphy or paintings, I have plenty—ancient calligraphers too, as many as you want.”

Zhou Jiao rolled her eyes at her grandpa. “Not those. Can you grant me just one wish this time? Just one. My dad and uncle are coming back, and I love calligraphy the most. I want his calligraphy, Grandpa—can you get me two pieces? No need for poems, just something like ‘Zhou Xiaozheng is a good comrade.’ If he could add something like ‘enduring humiliation for the greater good’ or ‘pillar of the nation,’ that’d be even better.

I want to keep it for Ping An as a family heirloom, so future generations know the hardships of their ancestors. So they know their grandpa was amazing—even the leader praised him.

I bet you don’t have anything like that, Grandpa? You should get one for Uncle too, with ‘Comrade Lin Aiguo is a good comrade’ written on it. That way, in the future, the Lin family will have something in Beijing that was praised by the leader.”

Old Master Lin said gruffly, “I have his calligraphy in my study, but not what you’re asking for. I’ll try, but it’ll have to wait for the right opportunity. He’s so busy—how am I supposed to ask?”

“Grandpa, you’re the best! Please get one for me, so I can keep it. I don’t care, you have to help me get one. When I’m back in Beijing, I’ll come find you for it.” Zhou Jiao pouted and pleaded pitifully.

Old Master Lin, unable to resist her pestering, relented. “Alright, I get it. I’ll find a way to get it before the New Year, okay? Anything else? If not, let Xiao Wu come in.”

Zhang Guoqing was outside looking out the window. When he heard Old Master Lin call for him, he went in right away.

He walked over to Old Master Lin, who motioned for him to find a stool and sit down.

Old Master Lin asked, “So, you’ve decided on the Armed Forces Department? Didn’t Zuo Lin say he could arrange a job for you at the Public Security Bureau? Isn’t that good?”

Zhang Guoqing replied, “Grandpa, I’ll be honest—I don’t plan to stay there long-term. I just want to spend some time at the Armed Forces Department to get to know some people. The Public Security Bureau is good, but it’s not what I want.”

Old Master Lin looked at the two of them and asked, “Then why don’t you tell me your future plans? Do you trust Grandpa?”

Zhang Guoqing and Zhou Jiao exchanged a glance, both understanding each other’s meaning. Zhou Jiao nodded.

Old Master Lin and Lin Lishan smiled at the two young people.

Zhang Guoqing looked at them and said, “For the next two years, we’ll work while studying—learning about government administration. Jiao Jiao will stay home with the child and keep studying too. If we get the chance, we’ll go to university.

He glanced at Old Master Lin and his mother-in-law, then continued, “If we graduate from university, I’ll go into administration. As for what Jiao Jiao wants to do, she’ll decide within two years, before she chooses her major. Our future path will depend on the situation. This place is too remote—we have to go out and see the world before we can decide.”

“That’s a good plan. You can always adjust it later. What do you think about your father-in-law’s job? Do you want him to stay in Beijing? If you’re both planning to be in Beijing, then there’s no need for them to come back.”

Zhang Guoqing was silent for a moment, then shook his head firmly. “My father-in-law should have his own plans. Besides him, the key is you, Grandpa—it depends on what you want. If he stays in Beijing alone, he’ll be in danger.

If he’s tired after all these years, it might be safer to return to another military district.

But if you want him to stay in Beijing, then Uncle shouldn’t transfer to another military district. With both of them in Beijing, no one would dare mess with them. If they’re both in Beijing, you’ll need to keep a low profile—just hold on to military power, don’t side with anyone. You came up as an orderly for the leader—just listen to him and ignore everyone else. Grandpa, if things get chaotic, you’re the only one I’d dare say this to.”

“Mm, go on. Lishan, go outside and make sure no one comes in.” Old Master Lin motioned for Lin Lishan to leave and sat up straight, looking Zhang Guoqing in the eye.

Zhang Guoqing continued, “Most of the people from CX have come back, and now it’s all about re-dividing military power. Who’s willing to give up what they have? One campaign after another. If we look back at the founding of the Song Dynasty, or how Li Shimin built the Tang Dynasty—history tells us how to avoid and go with the flow. Whether the East suppresses the West or vice versa, as long as you stick to being the leader’s orderly, you can’t control others and they can’t control you. Don’t you think so, Grandpa? I’ve read Capital, Records of the Grand Historian, and Zizhi Tongjian, and looking at today, I feel like history just keeps repeating itself.”

Old Master Lin patted him on the shoulder. “Not bad, young and promising. So many people can’t see what’s right in front of them, but you already get it. Go out and see the world early, broaden your horizons, and your future will be limitless. But what we said here stays here—never repeat it elsewhere.”

Zhang Guoqing nodded solemnly. If he wasn’t worried about the old man forming factions, taking sides too early, and dragging his father-in-law into the mess—affecting his own plans—he wouldn’t have said any of this. People’s hearts are unpredictable; who can you really trust? Other than Jiao Jiao, he could never fully trust anyone. Be cautious, keep a low profile, prepare for the worst, and always be ready—that’s what he always reminded himself."

"**Chapter 91: Laughing About the Best of the Best**

Old Master Lin looked at the young couple with satisfaction. At such a young age, they already saw things clearly and had planned out their futures—truly outstanding.

“Grandpa is just waiting for you two to come to the capital. I’ll talk to your dad about his job as well and see what he decides. He’s seen a lot over the years, gained plenty of experience, and he’s always been very capable. There’s no need to worry about him—you’ll understand when you meet him.”

Zhou Jiao glanced at the two of them and smiled. “Brother, you still have time to keep Grandpa company for a bit. You two can have a good chat in private. Let Mom come in now.”

Lin Lishan came in, smiling. “I’ve been waiting outside this whole time. It’s getting late—when are we leaving? Dad, check your watch.”

Zhang Guoqing quickly said, “Grandpa, before you came in, my mom already said we should eat before leaving. Everything’s ready. Let’s go have something to eat, then we’ll hit the road.” He turned to Zhou Jiao. “Jiaojiao, is there anything else you want to say to Grandpa?”

With tears in her eyes, Zhou Jiao looked at the old man. “Grandpa, you have to take good care of yourself. And please send my regards to Grandma. As for my dad, please make sure he doesn’t give me any more little brothers or sisters.”

Old Master Lin was touched, but her last sentence made him burst out laughing. Lin Lishan rolled her eyes at her. “Don’t worry, your dad’s a soldier, and your mom’s there too. Dad, we’re in a hurry, let’s eat first. If she thinks of anything else, I’ll tell you when I get to the capital.”

The three of them laughed as they walked out to the main hall, where everyone was waiting for them. Father Zhang quickly invited Old Master Lin to the seat of honor, and the Zhang sisters helped Lin Lishan to her seat as well.

Zhang Guoqing opened the wine and poured everyone a glass. Old Master Lin was already chatting with Father Zhang, so Zhang Guoqing sat down to join the conversation, listening to everyone joke and laugh. All the while, he was thinking if there was anything he’d forgotten to take care of. Halfway through the meal, he quietly slipped away to check on Jiaojiao in the west wing—he just couldn’t help worrying about her.

Seeing him, Zhou Jiao said happily, “Brother, I was just thinking about the things you need to pack. Go get your stuff together. I can’t get out of bed. The clothes I’ve changed out of are for Mom to wash, but you should take two more sets with you. Take the new sweaters Second Sister-in-law made for you—they’re in the wardrobe. Bring some money, and don’t forget your military vouchers—they’re good nationwide.”

Zhang Guoqing didn’t answer. He just walked over and hugged her, listening to her nag. When she finished, he said, “Are you feeling uneasy? I’ll be back in a few days. Make sure you and the baby are safe at night, and be careful with the lamps. I’ve already told Mom to sleep on the outer bed. If you fall asleep, don’t accidentally bring things out of thin air. Take care of yourself and the baby. I’ll go to the provincial capital and tell you all about it when I get back.”

“If I suddenly conjured up some gold, do you think Mom would really believe I’m a golden child? Haha, that would be hilarious.”

Zhang Guoqing helped her sit up on the kang bed, then got up himself. “Jiaojiao, do you have any bags? You can’t just carry a ragged sack, can you?”

Zhou Jiao burst out laughing. “A ragged sack is perfect—it fits your hardworking, frugal image. Brother, you should look in the mirror—you look so scruffy. Get a haircut this time, make it short like the soldiers, or even shorter. Those fancy bags are too trendy. Only this black bag is for Dad’s clothes—I don’t even know how it got packed. I’m keeping the clothes for the memories, and the bag too, so don’t lose it. Bring it back to me. When my confinement is over, let’s sneak out and burn some paper money.”

After saying this, she felt a pang of sadness. She wondered if, after their family left, anyone would help burn paper money for her ancestors. Thankfully, she had photos of her grandparents. Maybe one day she could go to XL and find them.

Zhang Guoqing stroked her hair. “Are you missing your parents?”

Zhou Jiao shook her head gloomily. “Not really. I just miss Grandpa. Who will pay respects to them during the holidays in the future? When can we go find them? Do people like that even exist in this world? Grandpa and Old Master Lin look so alike—maybe they’re related?”

Zhang Guoqing shook his head regretfully. “No, I’ve tested it before. They’re from different places—one from the south, one from the north—original locals. Forget it, let’s not dwell on it. If we get the chance, we’ll visit XL someday. It’s just a tiny place—you’ll know when you see it. But think about our ages—what would we even say if we found them? Haha.”

Zhou Jiao thought about it and laughed. “If I said I was their granddaughter, they’d probably send me to a mental hospital. Haha, so funny.”

“Alright, better to keep it as a memory. If fate allows, we’ll meet again. Go pack your things.”

Zhang Guoqing was helpless. Isn’t it only pregnant women who get emotional like this? She must be bored. He went to the outer room and brought back two medical books and an ancient text. She’d fall asleep after reading just a bit, so he wasn’t worried about her eyes during her confinement.

“These are the books I bought yesterday. You can read them if you’re bored, but take care of your eyes.” He handed them to her and went to pack, since time was tight.

Zhou Jiao flipped through the books. The two medical books were good—she’d look for more when she had the chance. She figured he must have bought three sleep-inducing books for her, worried about her eyes.

“Young man, you’ll have no friends if you keep hiding books from them. Does your wife know you do this? Does your son know?”

“Hehe, tell that girl I’m no longer tempted by her. To avoid making mistakes, I firmly resist all beauty. And ask her—what’s with the sideways glances and flirty eyes? Does her man know? Does her son know?”

“Haha, that girl says you’ve passed the test. You can go out for a walk now, but remember the Three Obediences and Four Virtues, and the Eight Honors and Eight Shames.”

“Make your mother-in-law feel at ease, and your wife happy. Always remember: your wife is right, your wife is right, your wife is always right.”

“Court dismissed. You may rise.”

“Yes, ma’am!”

Just then, Lin Lishan and Zhang Meili came in, laughing out loud.

Zhang Meili teased, “You two are going to end up with no friends, just joking around by yourselves. Does your son know how silly you are?”

Lin Lishan was laughing so hard she could barely stand up straight. “Xiao Wu, ‘Your wife is right, your wife is right, your wife is always right’—that’s brilliant! You henpecked husband, does your mom know? Does your dad know? Oh, I can’t take you two anymore!”

Zhou Jiao waved at them. “All right, all my dear ministers, if you have something to report, speak up. If not, court is dismissed.”

Zhang Guoqing saw everyone outside with their things, ready to go. Knowing it was time, he quickly replied,

“Reporting to Your Majesty, your humble servant will escort the Emperor Emeritus back to the palace. Your Majesty, remember to rest well and be careful with the lamps. I’ll hurry back with good news.”

Zhou Jiao waved her handkerchief. “Go on, go on. No matter how far you send someone off, you must part in the end. Take good care of the Emperor Emeritus on the road, General, and come back for your reward.”

Zhang Guoqing winked at her, then left with the still-laughing Lin Lishan and Zhang Meili. Even outside, everyone was still chuckling.

Zhang Guoqing saw the cloth bag by Mother Zhang, picked it up, and headed out—he had to leave first before everyone laughed themselves silly.

Father Zhang led the family to see Old Master Lin and the others off at the gate, standing by the car and repeatedly inviting them to visit again when they had time. The others were still laughing so hard they couldn’t speak, only nodding.

Xiao Zhou and the others opened the car doors. Xizi quickly got in, and Zhang Guoqing didn’t say anything—letting him come back with his mother-in-law would be convenient."