Chapter 30: Reaction

On Monday, as soon as Lin Qiao entered the office, she noticed several new chemistry books on Group Leader Gao’s desk.

Before Lin Qiao could ask, Group Leader Gao spoke up, “If I don’t hurry up and learn some new things, Class One and Class Two will fall behind.”

“That’s not likely. Your two classes are doing quite well,” Lin Qiao said with a smile, pulling out a chair to sit down.

“How is it not likely? Old Qi told me the other day that they’re planning to recruit a few young college graduates in the second half of the year. It would be best if they also studied physics.”

Compared to chemistry experiments, physics requires more equipment, making it harder for all students to participate.

But Vice Principal Qi wasn’t just talking. The impact of fresh blood on the school was evident, as seen with Lin Qiao. One class improved by 2.1 points, another by 4.3 points, all in just half a month—something unimaginable before.

“When you young folks grow up, us old guys will be ready to retire.” Group Leader Gao, not even forty yet, sighed, “It’s time for class. I need to check if the small auditorium is available.”

When Lin Qiao led the two classes in experiments on Saturday afternoon, it was too late for him to apply. But he wasn’t in a hurry. Once Lin Qiao finished, the other classes would know how to do it, and he just wanted his students to try it themselves.

Just as he stood up, Old Qu came in, “Xiao Gao, the small auditorium isn’t available. Old Zeng asked me to tell you.”

“Not available?” Even Lin Qiao was surprised, as her application had been approved the previous Monday.

Group Leader Gao raised an eyebrow, “Why not?”

Old Qu was stumped and caught off guard. “Old Zeng didn’t say. Should I ask again?”

“Never mind, I’ll ask myself.” Group Leader Gao said, heading out.

Old Qu turned to Lin Qiao, “Old Zeng wants to see you in his office.”

This was a rejection of Group Leader Gao’s application and a summons for Lin Qiao. They exchanged a glance.

“I’ll go first,” Lin Qiao said. After all, Old Zeng had asked for her first, and it wouldn’t be good for both of them to go together.

Group Leader Gao had no objections and sat back down.

Lin Qiao had been at the school for a month, always dealing with Vice Principal Qi, and hadn’t met Old Zeng yet. She had heard about him, though. Old Zeng had returned two years ago after being sent away to raise pigs, losing his position as principal. Such situations were common back then, especially in schools. But with recent reforms, those who had seized power were pushed out, and the old guard returned. After ten years of raising pigs, Old Zeng wasn’t quite suited to school life. His age and the toll of those years showed, so most school affairs were managed by Vice Principal Qi, with Old Zeng making only important decisions.

Seeing Old Zeng, Lin Qiao noticed he looked older than his fifty-something years. He had rough hands from heavy labor, and more importantly, his eyes were somber, lacking enthusiasm for education.

Lin Qiao’s heart sank. As expected, Old Zeng said, “I’ve heard complaints that you’ve used the small auditorium and school resources multiple times for experiments that aren’t useful for teaching.”

Multiple times… using school resources… not useful for learning…

If the person who complained had no ill intentions, Lin Qiao wouldn’t believe it. She didn’t rush to speak, waiting for him to finish before saying, “I thought those ten years were over.”

Her words struck a nerve, and Old Zeng was stunned.

Lin Qiao wanted to put herself and him in the same position, “I thought the days of being watched and afraid to speak were over. I didn’t expect that even with national reforms, some still engage in such petty tricks.” Her sharp gaze seemed to question and anger.

Old Zeng’s questioning paused, recalling his own past struggles.

Lin Qiao didn’t press further, seeing his silence, she continued, “Of course, I wouldn’t call it a trap without reason. You should know I was substituting for Teacher Jiao after his injury.”

Old Zeng nodded, aware of this. Otherwise, he wouldn’t have thought her complaints were childish.

“Do you know the chemistry scores of the two classes I taught?” Lin Qiao asked.

Old Zeng was unsure, as it was just a monthly test, not a major exam, and he didn’t teach classes.

“If you knew, you wouldn’t say that. Class Three’s average score improved by 2.1 points, and Class Four’s by 4.3 points.”

Old Zeng was surprised. Even with Teacher Jiao, such improvement was rare.

“So I say it’s a trap,” Lin Qiao defended herself, “I designed these experiments to motivate students to study hard.”

She was just a substitute teacher, and as long as she did her job without any major issues, no one would criticize her, even if the grades of the two classes she taught slipped a bit, especially Class Four. After all, she took over midway and given her age; it was already commendable that she managed to keep the classes from falling apart completely. But she didn’t let that happen, and because of her efforts, Group Leader Gao and Vice Principal Qi had always admired her.

If Principal Zeng were twenty years younger or hadn’t gone through those ten years, he would also appreciate such a young person, but…

He raised his hand to calm her down, “Don’t get excited. I called you here just to understand the situation, not to criticize you.”

Lin Qiao wasn’t excited; she was just trying to take the initiative. However, this time, he didn’t give her a chance to speak and continued, “But about the small auditorium, you did apply for it, and the chalk meant for teaching was used to make those chalk bombs, right?”

Lin Qiao couldn’t deny that.

Principal Zeng sighed, “It’s good for young people to want students to learn more, but you also need to consider other aspects. For example, the budget—using so much chalk and reagents can easily be criticized. Moreover, I heard your experiment wasn’t very safe.”

He came from a time when even small issues could be blown out of proportion and turned into mistakes, so he naturally hoped young people would be more cautious.

“Since someone has reported this to me, it means there are already concerns. You should be more careful in the future.”

This implied that she shouldn’t conduct experiments with students. Just as Lin Qiao was about to say something, there was a commotion outside, as if something had happened.

Principal Zeng went out to check and saw a few middle school students running towards the infirmary.

“Wasn’t it supposed to be simple? So many high school students did it without any issues. How did Teacher Zheng manage to blow up a petri dish?”

“Keep your voice down, be careful not to be overheard.”

“Let them hear. She hurt herself when doing it and couldn’t even keep up with the students. I want to see how it’s done…”

The students were clearly going to get a first aid kit, but this Teacher Zheng was really inexperienced, especially at a time like this.

Lin Qiao felt a sinking feeling in her heart. Sure enough, Principal Zeng glanced at her, “I told you this experiment was dangerous. If you’re confident and can ensure nothing goes wrong, do it yourself. As for the students, let them watch. Didn’t you learn well without doing experiments?”

She had taken plenty of lab classes; it was these experiments that made her fall in love with chemistry.

Lin Qiao wanted to argue, but seeing how far the conversation had gone, she knew it was pointless. She nodded and returned to the office.

Group Leader Gao saw her expression and knew it wasn’t good news, “What happened?”

“Sorry, but it looks like your two classes won’t be able to do the experiment.” Lin Qiao explained the situation, “Someone’s targeting me, and your classes got caught in the crossfire.”

Group Leader Gao frowned, “Who would be so mean-spirited, not wanting to see others succeed?”

Seeing Lin Qiao sitting quietly, more subdued than usual, he tried to comfort her, “It’s not your fault.”

“I know.” Lin Qiao wasn’t going to blame herself for this, but she was angry.

Teachers should all want the best for their students. If there’s competition, it should be fair and open. Otherwise, what’s the point of playing these games?

Besides, who else besides Group Leader Gao was in direct competition with her? He hadn’t complained, so why should anyone else?

As expected, the students in Class One and Class Two were disappointed. Although Group Leader Gao demonstrated the experiment in class, it was different from doing it themselves.

Soon, Classes Three and Four found out too. When Lin Qiao entered Class Four, she saw the students looking dejected. She paused, placing the dried chalk on the desk, “What’s wrong? Don’t you want your experiment results? I could just break them for fun.”

“Who said we don’t want them?” There was an immediate response, but the enthusiasm was low.

“Then I’ll call out the names, and you can come up group by group to get them. You must break them here, no taking them after class.”

“Okay.” The students were still not very enthusiastic. Junzi, who was more familiar with Lin Qiao, directly asked, “Teacher Lin, are we really not allowed to do experiments ourselves anymore?”

They hadn’t been able to do experiments before, but they never knew how fun it could be until they did a couple with Lin Qiao. Going back to the old, boring way of learning was hard to accept.

Lin Qiao looked up and saw pairs of eyes filled with disappointment and a hint of hope, which made her heart ache.

In her original time, during the information explosion, children were exposed to various fun experiments from a young age, losing their curiosity by the time they reached middle school. But these children, due to various reasons, were always in a state of knowledge scarcity. Even a drop of water in their dry sponges was enough to make them happy.

Lin Qiao didn’t realize her voice had become very gentle, “Who said you can’t do experiments anymore?”

Junzi instinctively glanced at Qi Huaiwen, “Didn’t the principal tell you not to let us do them?”

Qi Huaiwen didn’t speak, but his peach blossom eyes looked over, indicating he had heard the news and shared it with everyone.

“The school is just worried about your safety,” Lin Qiao didn’t tell the children about the adults’ petty issues. “Besides, if we can’t do experiments at school, we can do them at home. There are many small experiments we can do at home. If necessary, I’ll pay out of my own pocket to make sure you can do the experiments.”

Seeing their eyes light up like lamps, she raised an eyebrow, “I can manage that, but you have to show me good grades.”

After class, Lin Qiao went to see Vice Principal Qi, “Is our school’s budget really insufficient for students to do experiments?”

She noticed the school buildings were new, and the desks and chairs weren’t old. Compared to the rural middle school she attended, it didn’t seem like the school was lacking funds.

Vice Principal Qi didn’t hide anything from her, “Occasionally doing small experiments is fine, but building a lab requires state funding.”

Seeing Lin Qiao remain silent, he continued gently, “Compared to a few years ago, things are much better now. Don’t rush. Take it step by step.”

Teachers who endured those ten years are patient. For Vice Principal Qi, having students listen attentively and teachers teach peacefully is more important than anything else. “Don’t worry, the country needs talent and will certainly prioritize student development and increase investment in education.”

Lin Qiao nodded. That evening, after dinner, she went upstairs to write a report.

If others could voice their concerns, why couldn’t she?

She decided to write a letter to the Ministry of Education, explaining the importance of hands-on practice in learning and advocating for the establishment of labs in middle schools. She didn’t even need to put in much effort. By drawing from her own experiences and those of her students, she could write a compelling and logical argument.

After writing until her neck ached, Lin Qiao realized she had empathized with those students. Despite acting normal since arriving, she always remembered this was just a book. This was the first time she felt such empathy.

Yes…

Everyone here is so vivid, with their own joys and sorrows, desires and needs. Even those far from the main plot are more than just characters in a book.

Lost in thought, she felt a large hand on her neck, gently massaging.

The man didn’t speak, and the pressure wasn’t heavy, but it brought her back to reality. She turned and asked, “Where do I send a letter to the Ministry of Education?”

Ji Duo had noticed something was off with Lin Qiao all day. Her bright eyes occasionally seemed distant, clearly preoccupied. After dinner, she went upstairs to write, and he didn’t disturb her. Seeing her stop to rub her neck, he reached out to help.

Instead of asking what was wrong, Ji Duo offered a straightforward solution, “Give it to me, I’ll mail it for you.”

That’s what Lin Qiao appreciated about him. He rarely asked about the details but always provided the most direct solution.

“Wait, let me add some finishing touches.” Lin Qiao felt his palm was warm, and the massage was more distracting than helpful. She pulled his hand away, “You’ve reached this position. You must have written reports before. Help me check for any needed changes.”

When it came to writing, Lin Qiao, a 21st-century traveler, couldn’t compare to this down-to-earth soldier.

Ji Duo didn’t leave. He placed his hand on the back of her chair and glared over the content she was reviewing. Their relationship hadn’t fully crossed the final boundary, but their physical closeness was evident. If someone else did this, Lin Qiao would feel they were being ambiguous. With Ji Duo, it felt natural, and she even pointed out a few uncertain parts for him to review.

Lin Qiao wasn’t skilled in this era’s report writing. Ji Duo pointed out two areas and pulled a chair over to help her write.

They say handwriting reflects the person. Ji Duo’s writing was bold and grand, contrasting with his stern appearance, revealing a hint of elegance.

Lin Qiao had seen enough of his contradictions in the past two days and quickly focused on the content.

Lin Qiao’s approach was emotional, aiming to resonate with readers. Ji Duo’s was more macro, elevating the argument. Halfway through, he paused, “Let’s stick with your original version.”

Lin Qiao was puzzled, but he explained, “For those in power, genuine emotion is more impactful than lofty ideas.”

Lin Qiao didn’t know how he reached this conclusion, but upon reflection, it made sense.

“Then no changes.” Lin Qiao re-read the letter and prepared to seal it. Ji Duo added, “Make another copy to send to the leader’s mailbox.”

The current leader valued talent development and promoted the resumption of college entrance exams. Writing to the Ministry of Education might not be as effective as writing directly to him.

Lin Qiao quickly made another copy and handed both to Ji Duo, rubbing her slightly sore wrist, curious, “Aren’t you going to ask what happened?”

“I can guess some of it.” Ji Duo collected the letters and tore up the drafts.

This habit of carefulness is typical of those in confidential work.

Ji Duo spoke little, and unlike others who talk more after drinking, he became even more reserved, always maintaining a cautious restraint.

Lin Qiao didn’t know what shaped these habits but simply explained the school incident.

“Your principal is afraid of criticism,” Ji Duo commented, “Some things only those who’ve experienced them understand.”

Indeed, Lin Qiao couldn’t fully grasp Principal Zeng’s feelings, having never faced repeated interrogations and accusations during his time at the farm. After ten years of seemingly endless time, some returned with passion, while others became weary.

The next morning, Ji Duo took Lin Qiao’s letters to the military camp. Before reaching the office, he saw a figure leaning against the door, idly twirling a hat on his finger. It was Ji Ze.

Ji Duo was used to his nephew’s nonchalance and didn’t bother to comment, “What’s up?”

“Uncle, you’re here?” Ji Ze quickly straightened up and saluted, “Good morning, Captain Ji!”

Seeing that he had not stated his purpose, Ji Duo entered the office, picked up the phone, and asked for the addresses of the Ministry of Education and the leader’s mailbox.

Ji Ze curiously glanced at the letters on the desk, “Who wrote these? Doesn’t look like your handwriting.”

“Your aunt wrote it,” Ji Duo said as he efficiently filled out the address and found two stamps from the drawer to stick on.

Hearing it was Lin Qiao, Ji Ze’s face immediately showed some discomfort. “She’s quite impressive, huh? Her handwriting is pretty good too.”

Ji Duo noticed and paused, looking at him. “She’s not some ignorant country girl. She graduated from high school and is currently a chemistry teacher at the school for military dependents. She has the right and the qualifications to make suggestions based on what she observes.”

This made Ji Ze even more uncomfortable. He indeed didn’t know much about Lin Qiao, previously out of unwillingness and now out of avoidance.

Having said what needed to be said last time, Ji Duo didn’t want to lecture his nephew every time they met. He asked again why Ji Ze had come.

This time, Ji Ze didn’t waste words. “In two weeks, it’s Grandma’s 60th birthday. I wanted to ask what you’re planning to give her so we don’t give the same thing.”

“Didn’t Grandma say not to give gifts?” Ji Duo looked up at his nephew.

The Ji family had always been low-key, and Xu Li wasn’t one for extravagance. Birthdays, whether for the old man or herself, were just family gatherings for a meal.

Ji Ze knew this too. “It’s not something valuable or bought. If you’re not giving anything, I’ll just give something simple.”

Without waiting for more questions, he stood up from the chair in Ji Duo’s office. “Uncle, you’re busy. I’ll head back now.”

Ji Duo frowned but didn’t say anything more. “Close the door on your way out.”

However, his nephew’s visit reminded him. At noon, he told Lin Qiao about it. “Next Friday, get off work early. It’s Mom’s birthday.”

“Mom’s birthday is next Friday?” Lin Qiao was completely unaware. “Why didn’t you tell me earlier?”

“Mom said not to celebrate, just to have a meal together.”

“Mom said not to celebrate, and you really won’t?” Lin Qiao thought this was typical straight-man talk. “If you give her more gifts, will she really get mad?”

Ji Duo’s father was someone who never gave gifts, and no one had ever told Ji Duo he should. He frowned slightly and sat down to discuss it with Lin Qiao. “What do you think we should give?”

He genuinely didn’t know what to give, rather than not wanting to give anything. Lin Qiao went to the fridge to get an ice cream bar, but just as she was about to unwrap it, the man glanced at her, “The doctor said you should eat less cold food.”

He was probably used to giving orders, as his tone often sounded like he was instructing.

Having been under his control recently, Lin Qiao paused and put the ice cream back, “Think of something yourself to give. I have my own gift.”

In ten days, the handmade soap she was making would be ready. She planned to make liquid soap that evening so it would be ready for Xu Li’s birthday. On Xu Li’s birthday, Lin Qiao took two classes off in the afternoon and went to the old house, where Ji Jun’s family was already present, except for Ji Ze. Xu Li was wearing a festive red short-sleeved shirt.

The clothes were probably bought by Ye Minshu, who kept complimenting how good they looked. However, she didn’t seem as spirited as she did when Ji Jun was promoted.

Ji Jun was sitting and chatting with the old man, looking calm and smiling.

Seeing Lin Qiao and Ji Duo return, Xu Li immediately smiled, “Xiao Yan sent a package for you. I put it in your room. Don’t forget it when you leave.”

If Xu Li hadn’t mentioned it, Lin Qiao would have forgotten that Ji Yan said she would send her something nice.

Lin Qiao nodded and presented her gift, “Happy birthday, Mom. I made these myself. Try them out; they’re better than store-bought.”

The handmade soap, wrapped in wax paper, was arranged in a row of six, along with a large bottle of liquid soap.

“Did you make all of this?” Xu Li was pleasantly surprised and intrigued. Seeing the liquid soap, she was puzzled, “What is this?”

“Liquid soap,” Lin Qiao replied.

Seeing Xu Li still confused and even Ye Minshu looking puzzled, Lin Qiao suddenly realized.

Could it be that liquid soap didn’t exist yet at this time?