Chapter 14: The Beginning of the Third Year

The third year of high school had finally arrived, and with it, a fresh wave of excitement and anticipation. Sun Miaohong was especially spirited today. The beginning of the school year often felt like a new chapter in a book—full of potential and promise. Today, her mood was radiant, and she was eager to share this optimism with her family and friends.

Without waiting for her boyfriend to reply, Sun Miaohong, with a bright smile, addressed him directly. "Since you're here already, why don't you join us? It's just a simple meal, Lei Zi. What do you think?"

Su Lei, ever the affable and supportive figure, responded with his characteristic warmth. "My dear wife, you're absolutely right! Here's what we'll do: you all go ahead and buy the groceries, and I'll hop on my bike and pick them up for you."

Sun Miaohong's smile widened, clearly pleased with this arrangement. "That sounds perfect. Thank you!"

Despite her initial hesitation, Su Yun couldn't bring herself to decline the kind invitation. After a brief moment of contemplation, she nodded in agreement. The offer was too generous to refuse.

After a short wait, Qin Ju and her companion were joined by their second uncle, Su Lei. With his usual charm, Su Lei suggested they come to his home for dinner before heading back to their village. Qin Zhonghui, feeling slightly awkward about the unexpected hospitality, agreed with a modest smile.

In truth, their families were not particularly close. Due to their demanding jobs that kept them away from home for much of the year, opportunities for family gatherings were rare. This lack of frequent contact made Qin Zhonghui feel somewhat uneasy in his second uncle's presence.

Su Lei, who worked at the Education Bureau, was a lively and engaging person. He had a way of making people feel at ease. Turning to Qin Zhonghui, he said, "Come on, Xiaojiu, you sit in the front while your dad takes the back seat."

"Alright!" Qin Ju responded with enthusiasm.

The bicycle, though not the most comfortable, was a significant asset for that time. The Forever brand bicycle was a symbol of both status and practicality, offering a touch of luxury that stood out in their community.

As they pedaled along, Su Lei turned to Qin Zhonghui and asked with genuine concern, "So, after your visit to the doctor, what did he have to say about your condition?"

"It's alright," Qin Zhonghui replied, his voice subdued.

From her seat at the front, Qin Ju chimed in, "The doctor advised that Dad needs to be more careful with his hands. If not, he might face difficulties with cooking in the future. Additionally, his stomach problems are attributed to poor eating habits."

Qin Zhonghui sighed softly but chose to remain silent, grateful that his current position on the bicycle allowed him to keep his emotions concealed.

Su Lei spoke with earnest concern, "You must not neglect the treatment for your stomach issues. Take good care of yourself. You and Xiaoyun have worked so hard all your lives, striving to earn a living and make sacrifices. Don't let your health deteriorate because of it. Sometimes, the smallest price is worth paying for the greater good."

"Indeed," came Qin Zhonghui's quiet but appreciative response.

As Su Lei was family, he chose his words carefully, avoiding too much direct criticism. Instead, he shifted his focus to Qin Ju, who was on the brink of beginning her senior year of high school.

"Xiaoju, you're going to be a senior when school starts, right? Make sure you put in your best effort and aim for a place in college!"

Sitting on the bicycle's beam, Qin Ju's hair was gently tousled by the breeze. Her confident smile reflected her determination as she replied, "Absolutely, I'm determined to succeed."

Despite her reputation as a diligent student, Qin Ju had been hindered by unfortunate circumstances, missing out on the college entrance examination. This time, she was resolute in seizing the opportunity, fully aware of how crucial the exam was for her future.

For children from impoverished backgrounds, the college entrance examination represented perhaps the most equitable opportunity to change their lives. Only those with unwavering determination could traverse the challenging path to success.

Meanwhile, as Su Yun accompanied Sun Miaohong to purchase vegetables, she discreetly bought two kilograms of mutton. Despite the expense, she felt it was inappropriate to allow her second sister-in-law to bear the entire cost.

Sun Miaohong initially resisted the gesture but eventually accepted with gratitude. Observing Xiao Shi, who appeared subdued and spoke minimally, she commented, "You made the right decision to bring Xiao Shi to the county for his studies. I remember him being quite lively two years ago. Now, he seems a bit listless. When he arrived, he called me aunt and then fell silent."

Su Yun, reflecting on the difficulties Xiao Shi had faced, pursed her lips and responded, "I made a mistake before. I thought leaving him at home would be fine, but I didn't anticipate that the boy from the third family would be so troublesome and bully Xiao Shi. This time, Zhong Hui and I have decided to find work in the county and support the children's education ourselves."

Sun Miaohong nodded in agreement, "That's the right approach. Once we return, I'll have your second brother look for a suitable house. If we find one, I'll help you find additional work."

Su Yun, feeling deeply appreciative, expressed her excitement, "Thank you so much, second sister-in-law!"

Sun Miaohong responded warmly, "There's no need to thank me. We're family, after all."

Su Yun was deeply touched by the support and kindness extended to her and her family. It was a rare and precious gesture that made her feel hopeful for the future. Despite the challenges ahead, the thought of having such supportive relatives made the journey seem a bit more manageable.

As the evening wore on, the family gathered around the dinner table. The meal was filled with lively conversation and the comforting aroma of home-cooked food. Su Lei and Sun Miaohong's hospitality was a balm to Su Yun's weary spirit, providing her with a sense of belonging and reassurance.

As they enjoyed the meal, Su Lei took the opportunity to discuss future plans and explore ideas for improving their situation. The discussion shifted to the practicalities of finding work and housing, and everyone contributed their thoughts and suggestions. It was clear that while challenges lay ahead, there was a shared commitment to supporting one another and finding solutions.

The evening was a reminder of the importance of family and community. Despite the difficulties they faced, the sense of togetherness and mutual support provided a glimmer of hope for a brighter future.

As the meal concluded and the family began to prepare for the next day, there was a sense of optimism in the air. The support and encouragement from Su Lei and Sun Miaohong had bolstered Su Yun's resolve, and the prospect of a new opportunity to improve their situation was both exciting and reassuring.

(End of this chapter)

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