Relatives in a Foreign Land (7)

In an office within Zhongnanhai, Xiao Liji paced back and forth, her expression a mix of worry and impatience.

"Director Xiao..."

"Is there news about Xiao Feng?" she interrupted before even seeing who had entered. The usual image of a formidable businesswoman was gone, replaced by the anxious concern of a mother.

"Uh… it's me, Old Song," said Song Commander, scratching his head in confusion. "What's wrong? Has Feng'er gone missing again?"

"Ah, it's you, Old Song." The emotional whiplash left Xiao Liji feeling a bit stifled. She asked flatly, "What brings you here so late?"

"Well… uh, I just happened to be passing by Zhongnanhai and noticed your office light was still on. Thought I'd stop by and say hello," Song Commander replied awkwardly, his words stumbling over themselves—a stark contrast to the composed demeanor expected of a high-ranking military commander.

His bumbling explanation might have been amusing under different circumstances, but Xiao Liji wasn't in the mood to laugh. It wasn't just her worry for Zhuifeng; she also understood that Song Commander's so-called "coincidences" were anything but.

Since returning to China, Song Commander had a habit of coincidentally appearing wherever she was, even making frequent trips to N City under the guise of work while she cared for the comatose Zhuifeng.

Once or twice might have been plausible, but over a dozen instances? For someone of his position, it was far from normal. Xiao Liji had observed him carefully and realized his intentions were not purely professional.

As a widow who had endured years of hardship, she had often yearned for a partner to lean on. But every time the thought crossed her mind, she would see Zhuifeng's face, and the notion would vanish. She feared his disapproval or disappointment, especially knowing how much guilt already weighed on their relationship.

While her feelings for Song Commander had deepened over time, she buried them for Zhuifeng's sake, snuffing them out before they could grow.

She sighed softly, casting an apologetic glance at Song Commander, which only added to the awkward atmosphere.

Thankfully, a knock on the door broke the tension as an aide stepped in. "Director Xiao, the Young Master has returned. Should I let him in?"

Xiao Liji hesitated, her gaze flicking toward Song Commander. While she had nothing to hide, she worried that Zhuifeng might misunderstand.

Song Commander, noticing her hesitation, forced a bitter smile. "Director Xiao, I'll leave you to your family reunion. Take care."

He turned to leave, his steps heavy with disappointment.

As he reached the door, Xiao Liji's heart softened. "Old Song," she called, her voice hesitant. "If you don't have any pressing matters, why don't you join us for a late-night snack? Feng'er hasn't properly thanked you for saving his life back then."

Though Song Commander hadn't played a significant role in Zhuifeng's rescue, the invitation wasn't lost on him. Whether it was meant as a courtesy or a genuine gesture, it gave him an excuse to stay a little longer.

"Mom!" Before Song Commander could respond, Zhuifeng burst into the room like an eager child, throwing himself into Xiao Liji's arms. "I'm sorry! I was so excited to see Grandpa Wang that I lost track of time. I didn't mean to worry you!"

Xiao Liji's stern demeanor melted instantly. Holding him close, she gently stroked his back. "It's alright. Just call me next time if you're going to be late. By the way, did you officially make Grandpa Wang your god-grandfather?"

"Yep! Mom, you're not upset, are you?"

"Of course not, silly boy. I owe him a lot for taking care of you. I should find time to visit and thank him properly."

"Thanks, Mom!" Zhuifeng beamed, then noticed the unfamiliar man standing nearby. Slipping out of Xiao Liji's embrace, he asked curiously, "Mom, who's this? Let me guess—are you Uncle Song?"

Song Commander was startled. "How did you know?"

Zhuifeng stepped closer, studying him intently. "Because Mom always mentions you. And I have to say, you look quite dashing in that uniform!"

"Really?" Song Commander's heart swelled with joy. Though the words were directed at him, his eyes were full of hope as he glanced at Xiao Liji.

Xiao Liji's face turned slightly awkward. "Feng'er, don't spout nonsense. This is Uncle Song, the man who saved your life. Show some proper gratitude."

"Oh." Zhuifeng shot Song Commander a mischievous grin behind his mother's back before bowing slightly. "Thank you for everything, Uncle Song."

"Feng'er, there's no need to thank me. Your mother has done so much for us. Besides, for her…" Song Commander caught himself mid-sentence, realizing he had nearly said too much.

"Alright, enough of that," Xiao Liji interrupted hastily. "I'm starving. Feng'er, how about we go out for a late-night meal?"

"Great idea! Uncle Song, you're coming too, right?" Zhuifeng thought for a moment before adding, "Why don't you invite your son as well? I heard he works in Zhongnanhai too."

Song Commander hesitated, glancing at Xiao Liji. "I'm not sure if he's on assignment. With the Olympics going on, security is stretched thin."

Meeting her son's hopeful gaze, Xiao Liji sighed and picked up the phone. "Xiao Fei, bring the car around. We're heading out." Setting the phone down, she explained, "Xiao Fei isn't on duty right now. He's technically my personal driver." She glanced at Song Commander. "You don't mind, do you?"

"Why would I mind? I'm grateful he's even managed to make it into the Ministry of State Security. All that boy knows is racing. I should be thanking you for giving him a chance," Song Commander said with a bitter smile.

Zhuifeng tilted his head, his expression reminiscent of a playful child. "Uncle Song, that's not fair. Big Brother Song's racing skills earned him the title of 'God Of Racing' in Beijing. That's not a hobby—it's a talent!"

"Maybe," Song Commander admitted reluctantly. "But unless his title is recognized nationwide, it doesn't mean much."

"That's easy to fix. Let him compete in the Nüwa Cup—our Oriental Group sponsors it, and it's highly regarded."

Xiao Liji gently brushed a speck of dust off Zhuifeng's shoulder and said, "You've forgotten that he's with the Ministry of State Security. Exposure is the last thing he needs. Even as my driver, his primary role is classified. Participation in public events is out of the question."

Realizing the truth in her words, Zhuifeng sighed and dropped the subject, though his lips still pouted in dissatisfaction.