Chapter 84

The next day, Zhou Honghan and Mother Ning, two elders, came to Su Ye’s house to plan the banquet menu and process for the wedding celebration.

The elaborate preparations left Su Ye feeling a bit overwhelmed. Zhou Honghan said regretfully, “It’s a pity the current times aren’t great. If you and Xiangqian had married a few years earlier, your mother-in-law would have hosted a grand wedding banquet for you.”

Now, they could only manage a simple meal. Zhou Honghan planned to kill her three home-raised chickens to use for Su Ye’s banquet.

Mother Ning sighed as she said to Su Ye, “Exactly! When your mother-in-law got married back then, it was such a big event. If you had married into the family two years earlier, even if there weren’t delicacies like abalone or shark fin, there would definitely have been a pair of roasted suckling pigs.”

Su Ye smiled and replied, “It’s just a formality. Let’s keep it simple. At this point, it’s not convenient to host something too extravagant. Being able to set up even one table is already great.”

Zhou Honghan suggested, “The wild boar Xiangqian caught last time—there should still be some left in the canteen, right? Let’s set aside ten pounds of pork belly and three pounds of pig’s trotters to make braised pork and Scholar’s Pig Trotters!”

Gu Xiangqian nodded. “Sure, I’ll let the canteen know in advance.”

Mother Ning added, “And we should invite Chef Yang to cook! He’s been looking forward to making your wedding feast for years. His meat buns and soup buns are the best, and everyone loves them!”

At this moment, Fang Xiulian and her husband, Li Maogang, arrived as well. When Fang Xiulian saw the long list of dishes being planned, she was amazed. This wedding banquet was shaping up to be far more lavish than a New Year’s feast. Nowadays, only Su Ye and Gu Xiangqian could still manage to include meat on the menu.

Fang Xiulian smiled and said, “Brother Xiangqian and Sister-in-law are finally having their wedding banquet! Maogang and I are planning to contribute ten pounds of pork belly to help. We need to host this properly, so Sister-in-law can head to university with everything settled. With so many young, handsome guys at university, I’m worried she might forget about Brother Xiangqian if we don’t bribe her first!”

“There’s no need for ten pounds of pork belly, just come and enjoy the banquet,” Su Ye said, keeping her composure. She thought to herself, That ten pounds of pork is coming out of my pocket anyway—what’s the difference between taking it from my left hand or right hand?

Everyone burst into laughter at Fang Xiulian’s comment. Mother Ning added, “What nonsense! Just look at your Brother Xiangqian. Where could you find anyone more handsome than him?”

The group continued laughing and chatting cheerfully. Gu Xiangqian smiled modestly, while Su Ye pretended not to hear. Mother Ning nudged Su Ye and boldly asked, “Xiao Su, don’t you think so too?”

Su Ye had no choice but to nod awkwardly. While Gu Xiangqian’s other strengths might not stand out as much, his face was undeniably a standout feature. It wasn’t just rare to find someone like him in college—meeting someone like him even after entering the workforce would be a stroke of luck. Otherwise, she wouldn’t have been so bewitched by his looks.

Gu Xiangqian unexpectedly smiled and said, “Alright, stop teasing her. She’s shy and can’t handle your jokes.”

The lively and joyful atmosphere made Su Ye feel, for a moment, as if she truly had a home here, surrounded by people who genuinely cared about her.

—

The next day, Su Ye arrived at school as planned for an interview with the school newspaper. The interviewer was an old acquaintance, Reporter Xia, who had once written an article that helped underprivileged students return to school.

Reporter Xia grasped Su Ye’s hand tightly and exclaimed, “I never imagined it would be you, Teacher Su!”

Su Ye’s life story could truly be described as extraordinary. Coming from a poor region, she defied the odds to become a specially appointed science teacher at the top high school in the area. During her tenure, she inspired a love of learning in her students and collaborated with them to create a “green factory” that turned waste into profits. The earnings were used to help impoverished students return to school, earning her the title of Provincial Outstanding Teacher.

Now, she has made a remarkable achievement in the college entrance exams, securing admission to Tsinghua University. On top of that, the study materials she compiled helped many of her students get into universities. Each of these accomplishments could easily be the subject of a standalone feature article.

It’s incredible that such an exceptional person exists in real life, someone truly deserving of admiration.

After giving a brief overview of her background, Reporter Xia asked her one final question: “What has been your driving force?”

For food and for going home! Su Ye thought, though those words couldn’t be spoken aloud. Just last night, she had returned briefly, and comparing the current era with sixty years ago left her filled with complicated emotions.

Without hesitation, Su Ye answered, “For the dream of a prosperous China.

“Sixty years ago, our gates were humiliated and forcibly opened by foreign cannons. We were compelled to sign unequal treaties and cede our lands. Sixty years later, the sons and daughters of China have sacrificed their blood and flesh to establish the New China.

“In my vision, our nation will be peaceful, stable, and prosperous, where everyone has enough to eat and a place to call home. China is the sleeping dragon of the East, merely taking a brief rest. When it awakens, it will soar across the skies.

“When that day comes, it will erase all the chaos and humiliation of the past. It will show the world that their past contempt and prejudice were born of ignorance and arrogance. It will allow every Chinese person to stand tall and proudly declare, ‘I am Chinese, and I am proud of China.’ Until then, I will dedicate all my efforts to building our nation!”

Although Su Ye didn’t look at the live stream comments, the screen at that moment lit up with a flurry of messages:

【Oh my god, I feel like crying…】

【Such a passionate and inspiring dream. Go for it, Teacher Su! We’ll always support you!】

【Our dream has come true! Our country is truly incredible. Not only do we have the most advanced ￥#% but also the most powerful @#￥% (Comment contains sensitive content and has been censored).】

Reporter Xia was taken aback, genuinely shocked by Su Ye’s words.

He had expected her to talk about overcoming adversity, rising from her rural roots, and her personal determination to change her fate. Instead, Su Ye delved into a deeper and grander vision. While the ambition seemed too lofty, or perhaps it was because she was still young, after a brief moment of surprise, Reporter Xia smiled encouragingly and praised her.

“Young people’s ambition is admirable. It’s a great dream. I truly hope that one day, China will be as you envision it.”

【Based on Teacher Su’s track record of never boasting, she’s probably not exaggerating this time either.】

【Gotta say, Reporter Xia seems a bit skeptical. Please believe in Teacher Su!】

—

At the Qian Family,

When Qian Xiaohe received her acceptance letter, she didn’t dare bring it home, afraid her parents might tear it up. Fortunately, with so many children in the family, her father was constantly drunk, and her mother couldn’t be bothered to pay attention to the academic performance of a “useless girl.”

Her mother offhandedly remarked, “The boy next door, Congcong, got into a water conservancy school. Didn’t you take the high school entrance exams? Why hasn’t that Teacher Su of yours come to find you?”

Seeing her daughter remain silent, she poked her in the head and scolded, “Useless! You’re the only one on this entire street who couldn’t get into high school! If I’d known this would happen, I wouldn’t have wasted all that money on your education. You might as well have gotten married early!”

It wasn’t a concern for her daughter, she was simply ashamed of losing face in front of the neighbors. Other families’ daughters were already working in factories to earn money, while hers had been forced into schooling by a teacher’s insistence.

Qian Xiaohe’s forehead was red from the poking, but she laughed coldly inside. Getting into a water conservancy school? If they had paid any attention, they’d know she ranked first in the entire school.

Her father sneered, “I heard that Teacher Su of yours never even attended middle school. She’s just got a primary school diploma. How is she even qualified to teach middle school? She’ll ruin her students! She’s got no real skills—studying with her is a waste!”

Qian Xiaohe retorted, “Teacher Su is the best teacher.”

Father Qian was so angry that he grabbed something to hit her with. “You dare talk back to me? She’s nothing but a lousy teacher. A good teacher wouldn’t have only a primary school education! I’m going to the school to report her! And as for you, your education is done. Don’t say I didn’t let you study. Tomorrow, your mother will take you to see the matchmaker.”

Father Qian, realizing that hitting her might leave visible marks, put down the object in his hand and instead gave her a harsh kick.

—

At No. 1 High School.

After finishing her interview with the newspaper, Su Ye was about to head home when she unexpectedly ran into Qian Xiaohe at the school gate. Qian Xiaohe shyly smiled at her and walked over quickly, full of happiness.

Reporter Xia, who still remembered Qian Xiaohe somewhat, greeted her warmly, saying, “So it’s Xiaohe! You look much healthier than before. Did you take the high school entrance exams this year? How did you do? Students taught by Teacher Su must have done well.”

Su Ye placed a hand on Qian Xiaohe’s shoulder and smiled. “Of course, she ranked first.”

Reporter Xia was delighted and congratulated Qian Xiaohe, praising her. “That’s incredible—just like your teacher! Xiaohe, you might not know this, but your teacher topped the science track this year and got accepted into Tsinghua University. You should definitely learn from her example.”

Qian Xiaohe stood there in a daze, joyfully staring at Su Ye. The news shocked her far more than learning that she had been accepted into a vocational high school! Her eyes shimmered with excitement and tears—her teacher was the top scorer!

Su Ye might never realize how much confidence she had just given Qian Xiaohe. At this moment, it was as if sunlight enveloped Qian Xiaohe, filling her with warmth and completely washing away her pain. She felt as light as a feather, as though she could stretch out her hand and touch the blue sky, daring to reach for her dreams.

Qian Xiaohe said, “Teacher Su, I want to report to school early. I’ve already contacted a teacher there over the phone.”

Su Ye lifted Qian Xiaohe’s bangs and saw a red mark on her forehead, immediately understanding the situation.

“Alright, I’ll take you. It’s not convenient for you to go alone, and you probably can’t get a train ticket at the last minute. Pack up your things tonight, and I’ll come pick you up tomorrow.”

Qian Xiaohe quickly waved her hands. “No need. I saved up some money over the summer fixing things for people. I’ll go to the bus station to buy a ticket myself. No need to trouble you, Teacher.”

Su Ye wouldn’t take no for an answer. “I’m on break, so I’ve got plenty of free time. Don’t worry—it’s no trouble at all.”

—

The next day.

Gu Xiangqian applied for a day off from the military and accompanied Su Ye to drive Qian Xiaohe to the agricultural technical school in a neighboring city.

It was Qian Xiaohe’s first time riding in such a luxurious and comfortable car. She was so nervous that she didn’t know where to place her hands and feet. Sitting stiffly, she was terrified of damaging the soft leather seats.

They soon arrived at the school, and Su Ye led Qian Xiaohe to handle the enrollment procedures. Qian Xiaohe’s luggage was pitifully sparse, consisting of just a few pieces of clothing for everyday wear, with nothing suitable for winter.

Fortunately, they had come prepared. Gu Xiangqian opened the trunk and took out a brand-new set of bed linens, followed by a washbasin and a hot water kettle, which they delivered to her new dormitory. He also went to the cafeteria to exchange meal coupons for her.

Su Ye counted out a few fabric ration coupons from her pocket and handed them to Qian Xiaohe. “Use these to make a winter coat. If you find yourself in financial difficulty, remember to call me. Don’t try to save too much.”

After that, she took Qian Xiaohe to the teacher’s office building to finalize her dormitory arrangements.

Qian Xiaohe’s new teacher was named Ruan Ruliang. After learning about her situation, he immediately reached out to the school to secure a dormitory for her. Su Ye thought she should properly thank Teacher Ruan.

Once the accommodation procedures were completed, Su Ye brought a pound of milk candies to the office to find Teacher Ruan.

Ruan Ruliang, nearing fifty, had silver streaks in his hair. His desk was piled high with books, materials, and miscellaneous plant specimens, perfectly reflecting the traits of an agronomy professor.

Ruan Ruliang shook his head and said, “There’s no need to be so formal, Teacher Su! I’ve heard about Xiaohe’s situation—anyone else would have lent a hand as well. I’ve had several students from No. 1 High School before, and your school is quite excellent.”

Su Ye responded, “Professor Ruan, we’re very grateful for your help with Xiaohe’s matter. My husband and I are planning our wedding banquet soon, so please consider these as wedding sweets—”

Her words abruptly stopped as her eyes fell on an open notebook on the desk. It was filled with densely written notes. Despite the messy yet forceful handwriting, she could faintly make out phrases like:

“Male-sterile plants, sterile plants unable to self-pollinate, potential for hybridization…”

Su Ye suddenly froze, rubbing her face in disbelief as she studied Professor Ruan. Although his age and personal background didn’t align, a bold thought began to take root. The keyword “male-sterile plants” was simply too significant!

Straightening her posture instinctively, Su Ye’s tone became serious as she cautiously asked, “Professor Ruan, are you currently researching male-sterile plants?”

Adjusting his glasses, Ruan Ruliang replied meticulously, “It can’t exactly be called research—it’s just a curious phenomenon I happened to come across recently.”

Su Ye broke into a broad smile and extended her hand to shake his. “What a pleasure to meet you, Professor Ruan. Allow me to formally introduce myself—my name is Su Ye. I used to teach science at No. 1 High School and am preparing to study at Tsinghua University this year. If you ever need assistance, I’m at your service.”

“Male-sterile plants sound like a fascinating concept. If you have time, could you explain it to me? To be honest, I’ve always been deeply interested in this field. Not choosing agronomy as my major is something I’ll always regret!”

“Fortunately, my student chose it. From now on, Xiaohe will study hard under your guidance, Professor. She isn’t afraid of hardship or exhaustion. Even though she’s a girl, she’s no less capable than the boys. Professor, you simply must accept these candies. Doing research is exhausting—you need to keep your nutrition up.”

Although Qian Xiaohe didn’t understand what had just happened, she firmly nodded. “Teacher, let me learn well under your guidance!”

【??? This is the first time I’ve seen Teacher Su being so fawning?】

【What just happened?】

【What nonsense is this regret about not choosing agronomy? Teacher Su, can you save some face?】

【Judging by the comments above, you’re all liberal arts students—so clueless.】

【If Teacher Su’s hunch is correct… holy crap…】