Chapter 128: Slightly Drunk, Soothing the Heart 3_1
"Stop blabbering and go clean yourself, you stink! It's almost time for dinner!" said the political commissar's wife, pushing her daughter-in-law. The couple didn't seem to mind that Chen Ya'nan wanted to be a woman soldier; judging by Chen Zheng's reaction, he seemed to like Chen Ya'nan's spirit.
With so many guests, the table was packed. Being a newlywed couple, He Teng and He Zhilan were naturally the target of everyone's teasing. He Teng's glass was continuously filled, and even Zhilan, who had a low tolerance for alcohol, was forced to indulge in a few drinks. Eventually, perhaps realizing that Zhilan was a girl, and a rather inexperienced drinker at that, they let her be.
However, as a man, He Teng was not as fortunate. Zhilan sat by his side, watching him down one drink after another, worrying that he might get completely drunk.
"Ah, the only problem with the He family is that they live too far from the army. We saddened that we missed their wedding feast because of the distance. If they lived closer, we'd definitely have been there to celebrate!" someone randomly brought up the fact that none of the soldiers had been at He Teng and He Zhilan's wedding. They then refilled their glasses, suggesting a toast in lieu of the wedding celebration.
Although soldiers may appear stern, they certainly know how to enjoy themselves, hence the birth of the term 'jolly soldiers'.
The suggestion of a toast was met with thunderous applause and cheers of approval. Everyone agreed - it was a splendid idea!
"Absolutely! It's a wonderful idea!" chimed in political commissar Chen Zheng. He would have thrown another wedding feast for He Teng and He Zhilan if circumstances allowed it!
A lively event - who doesn't love being a part of it? Especially when it involves a usually taciturn individual. People were tripping over each other to join the spectacle!
Zhilan now understood why He Teng had forewarned her. It was quite apparent that he had anticipated how rowdy this bunch could be!
"Come on! Stop gawking at your wife! She's right here next to you – she's not going anywhere!" the political commissar's wife urged.
He Teng was indeed gazing at Zhilan; he remembered that during their wedding, she had thrown the ceremonial toast onto the ground. He wasn't sure whether she'd be comfortable with a similar toast now, or whether she might make a scene.
Luckily, after a few seconds, Zhilan returned his gaze with a blushing face. There was no sign of discomfort or anger in her eyes, only slight unease.
"Let's drink," He Teng finally said, taking the glass in front of Zhilan and handing it to her. He only picked up his own glass after Zhilan reluctantly reached out to accept hers.
They were drinking ordinary beer. However, Zhilan could barely hold her liquor. She had already flushed a bright red from the few drinks she'd had earlier and the constant teasing. Now, even the skin behind her ears had turned red.
She took the glass, her hand trembling slightly. The brim-full beer spilled onto the back of her hand. She looked at He Teng. His gaze held a clear emotion which she struggled to understand. Then, suddenly leaning towards her, he moved his glass around her arm.