Chapter 70: Contentment Brings Happiness

The dumplings stuffed with dandelion and egg had a delicious aroma, and Xiao Qingru complimented Xu Muzhou as she enjoyed them.

Xiao’s father, feeling slightly left out, chimed in, “Half of these are my handwork. Why aren’t you complimenting me?”

Quickly, Xiao Qingru replied, “No wonder each dumpling is perfectly thin skinned and filled to the brim. It must be thanks to you, Dad very generous!”

“Alright, alright, just eat,” said Xiao’s mother, scooping another generous portion for everyone. “Tomorrow is back to work, so let’s eat well tonight.”

In these times, every person’s food rations were carefully allotted. Though they had come over to enjoy a meal, Xu Muzhou and Xiao Qingru had actually brought their rations with them. Xiao’s mother, not knowing whether to be exasperated or proud, simply encouraged them to eat more.

After dinner, they chatted with her parents until dusk. Then the couple headed back to their apartment in the dormitory block. Since they had already bathed during the day, they only needed a quick wash before heading to bed.

Xu Muzhou had been thinking about what Xiao’s father had mentioned earlier, wanting to discuss it with Qingru early on, just in case they needed time to resolve any differing opinions.

“Wife, I need to discuss something with you.”

“What’s that?” Xiao Qingru asked, putting on her face cream in front of the mirror without turning around.

“I’d like to apply for an exchange and training program in the capital.”

Xiao Qingru paused. “You never mentioned this before. Why so sudden?”

“Your dad gave me a heads up. I only just found out about it. The timing is still uncertain, it depends on when the organization notifies us. I think he wanted me to start preparing mentally.”

He added, “And for you to prepare as well.”

Xiao Qingru continued applying her cream. “No need for me to prepare. Go for it. It’s a rare opportunity.”

Xu Muzhou hugged her from behind. “Aren’t you going to miss me?”

“Of course I will. But would that make you give up on such a big opportunity?”

Honest as always, Xu Muzhou shook his head. “No, it wouldn’t.”

She nudged his stomach with her elbow. “Then why are you talking so much? You’re such a drama king.”

A drama king? Xu Muzhou chuckled, kissing her earlobe. “I want to go for the exchange program, but I also want to see how much you’ll miss me.”

“Comrade Xu, that’s called vanity.”

Xu Muzhou: “…”

Fine, he was vain.

The seriousness and potential sadness of the moment eased after this lighthearted exchange. “Actually,” he said, “if you didn’t want me to go, I could stay.”

Xiao Qingru turned to look at him earnestly. “As long as it’s not a serious matter, never give up on your goals for anyone else. Not even for me.”

They loved each other deeply and could give up many things for each other, but Xiao Qingru knew such sacrifices could be dangerous. If things changed, it could lead to resentment. So, as long as circumstances allowed, it was better to keep a clear mind.

Xu Muzhou understood. A couple should support each other’s growth, not hold each other back.

“Are you listening to me?” She pinched his side, the firmness of his waist surprising her enough to make her hand hurt.

A sudden spark ran through him, and he immediately grasped her mischievous hand. “Yes, I’m listening.”

“So, should I apply tomorrow?”

“Go ahead. I’ll have a quiet time for a while.”

Xu Muzhou sighed, “I’d better make the most of it while I can.”

She nudged him. “Stop it. We have an early start tomorrow.”

“Then we’d better start early tonight.”

Before she knew it, she was on the bed.

Xiao Qingru tried to push him away, “I haven’t brushed my hair yet.”

“You don’t need to at night.”

“It feels uncomfortable if I don’t.”

“Fine, I’ll help you afterward.”

Soon after, Xiao Qingru realized that Xu Muzhou really did know how to “prove himself,” and she was too overwhelmed to argue anymore.

The next day, Xu Muzhou went to speak to his superiors about the training exchange.

“We were planning to put you on the list,” his leader said. “But since you and Comrade Xiao just married, we were unsure and intended to speak with you first. Good that you came in yourself.”

Xu Muzhou kept his tone serious. “I am committed to following the organization’s arrangements.”

“Have you discussed it with Comrade Xiao?”

“She fully supports my work. Please don’t worry.”

The leader nodded, smiling. “Growing up in the army, after all, makes a difference.”

Xu Muzhou’s pride was evident. “My wife is amazing!”

“You’re one lucky man, Xu. So many admired her, and you were the one to win her heart.”

Xu Muzhou thought to himself that whether it was in work or romance, a direct and decisive approach would always yield better results.

The leader continued, “The program begins in two weeks. It’s a three month, intensive exchange program. Make sure you’re well prepared.”

“Yes, sir!” he replied.

Three months could feel long or short, but for newlyweds, it was bound to be a little difficult.

Xiao Qingru would miss him, but she didn’t show it. She didn’t want him to worry about her and be distracted from his training.

And thinking about those who couldn’t live with their spouses because they didn’t have military family status, Xiao Qingru felt a sense of contentment about their temporary separation.

Contentment really was the key to happiness.