Chapter 98.2

Two days later, Gu Qinghan found time to take Lele to the kindergarten for enrollment. As they neared the school, Wen Nuan pointed it out to Lele and said, “Lele, that’s the school where you’ll be studying in the future. Are you excited about going to kindergarten?”

By now, Wen Nuan’s belly was noticeably showing. Lele glanced at her mom’s pregnant belly, her little face filled with curiosity as she asked, “Mom, why do I have to go to kindergarten?”

The little girl had recently developed a habit of asking whimsical questions. This winter, especially, since Wen Nuan had been spending most of her time at home with her, teaching her to read and draw, Lele’s questions had only increased in number and imagination.

Wen Nuan thought for a moment before answering. “Because going to kindergarten will help you make lots and lots of friends, and it will make you even smarter.”

She knew Lele enjoyed playing, especially with other kids, brothers, and sisters. When Sister Guihua had cared for her previously, Lele often tagged along when visiting neighbors. Back then, Lele hadn’t been very good at speaking, but now she could form long sentences and express herself clearly. Keeping her cooped up at home any longer wouldn’t be good for her.

Letting her meet more playmates would definitely be a positive change.

Gu Qinghan, who was walking alongside them, reached out to tousle Lele’s hair and added, “You’ll also develop good habits and learn how to take care of yourself.”

Lele tilted her little head, causing her long pigtails to sway twice with the motion. With an innocent curiosity, she asked Wen Nuan, “Mom, then why don’t you and Dad have to go to school?”

Wen Nuan patiently replied, “That’s because your Dad and I went to school when we were little. Now that we’re grown-ups, we have to go to work instead.”

Lele frowned slightly. “Can I just go to work instead? I don’t want to go to school.”

“…”

Wen Nuan said firmly, “No, you can’t. You’re still a little child.”

Lele let out a disappointed “Oh,” before quickly brightening up. “Then I’ll go to school tomorrow, and the day after, I’ll start working.”

Wen Nuan raised her head to exchange a helpless look with Gu Qinghan. How were they supposed to explain to a child that schooling lasts until adulthood?

Nevertheless, Lele eagerly grabbed their hands and dragged them into the kindergarten.

The enrollment process was simple: they just needed to register Lele’s name and provide her parents’ occupations.

Since kindergartens at this time didn’t operate on a term system, Lele could start attending as soon as the following week.

When they left the kindergarten, Lele’s mood had noticeably lifted compared to when they arrived.

Wen Nuan gently said, “The teachers really like Lele. You’ll get to start school next week.”

Gu Qinghan chuckled and added with a smile, “Who wouldn’t like our adorable daughter?”

Wen Nuan looked at his proud expression and couldn’t help but laugh in exasperation.

Lele, walking a little ahead, suddenly stopped in her tracks. She turned to Gu Qinghan with a bright smile and said, “Dad, don’t forget to buy me a schoolbag! I want a pink one!”

Gu Qinghan searched his mind for options. In this era, the only bags he’d seen were army-green satchels. He hadn’t come across anything pink.

While Gu Qinghan was momentarily at a loss, Wen Nuan smiled and said to the little one, “When we get home, Mom and Aunt Guihua will make you a pink bag.”

Lele’s face lit up, and she eagerly nodded. Grabbing one of Wen Nuan’s hands and one of Gu Qinghan’s, she pulled them forward excitedly. “Let’s go home now, Mom! You can make it for me!”

Gu Qinghan quickly stopped her, not allowing her to tug Wen Nuan along like that. “We still need to take Mom to the hospital for her check-up, remember?”

Before they left the house, Gu Qinghan had already explained to Lele that they’d go to the hospital after the kindergarten visit. He hadn’t expected the little one to completely forget.

Upon hearing his reminder, Lele grinned, revealing a few tiny teeth. She said with excitement, “Dad, you promised to buy me an ice pop! We’ll go get it after!”

Gu Qinghan: “…”

“Let’s get the ice pop when we head home later. For now, we’ll go to the hospital first,” Gu Qinghan said decisively.

At this time, ice pops weren’t widely available; they had to be purchased from the Supply and Marketing Cooperative. However, the cooperative was in the opposite direction of the hospital. If they detoured to buy the ice pop, they might not have enough time for the hospital visit.

Lele nodded thoughtfully, then flashed a mischievous smile at Gu Qinghan. “Dad, you have to remember, okay? If you forget, I won’t talk to you anymore.”

Gu Qinghan raised an eyebrow and asked curiously, “How are you going to not talk to me?”

Lele hummed thoughtfully, tapping her chin as she considered her response. Then she broke into a cheeky grin. “Like Mom does—kick you out to sleep in another room!”

Wen Nuan, who had been quiet until now, couldn’t help but laugh. She pinched Lele’s chubby cheek gently. “You little rascal! When did Mom ever kick Dad out to sleep in another room?”

And even if she had tried, Gu Qinghan wouldn’t have left anyway!

Lele tilted her head back proudly, looking at Wen Nuan. “But Dad goes to the other room to sleep at night all the time…”

The little girl paused before adding innocently, “Oh, and it seems like you go there too, Mom.”

Wen Nuan and Gu Qinghan exchanged a quick, flustered glance. Memories of their countless “private moments” in the small room rushed to mind, making them both feel a little panicked.

What exactly had this little rascal seen?!

In an attempt to change the subject, Wen Nuan pulled a chocolate out of her pocket and handed it to Lele. “Nonsense! You must have been dreaming. Here, eat some chocolate and calm yourself.”

Gu Qinghan: “…”

The family continued their journey to the hospital, chatting and laughing along the way. They headed straight for Doctor Zhao’s office.

Gu Qinglan, who was waiting for them, waved enthusiastically. “Sister-in-law, over here! I already registered you.”

The night before, Gu Qinglan had stopped by the family compound and mentioned to Qinglan that she planned to accompany them to the hospital today. To their surprise, Qinglan had gone ahead and booked the appointment.

“But you’ll have to wait a bit. Doctor Zhao is helping out in another department and should be back in about ten minutes.”

It was a pleasant day, so Wen Nuan had only worn two layers of clothing. Her baby bump was even more pronounced now. Seeing this, Gu Qinglan muttered under her breath, “Hmm, it does look bigger than the usual baby bump. Maybe you’ve just been eating too much, Sister-in-law. You’re probably just gaining weight.”

Wen Nuan shot her a mock glare. “You’re the one gaining weight, Gu Qinglan!”

In reality, Wen Nuan hadn’t been eating much. She ate smaller, frequent meals that made it seem like she ate a lot, but she was mindful about her diet. She avoided greasy food and always skimmed the oil off her soups. It wasn’t likely she had gained much weight, especially after dealing with severe morning sickness in the early months.

Lele, noticing Gu Qinglan’s teasing, puffed up her cheeks and huffed. “Auntie, you’re the chubby piggy! Mom is a pretty Mom!”

Gu Qinglan burst into laughter at the child’s bold words. She playfully pinched Lele’s cheeks. “Oh? Well, Auntie is a pretty Auntie!”

Lele swatted Gu Qinglan’s hand away and declared seriously, “Auntie, from now on, you can’t pinch my cheeks anymore!”

Gu Qinglan looked puzzled and asked her, “Why? Did Auntie hurt you?”

However, she didn’t seem to have used much force; it was just a gentle pinch.

Who could resist when the little one was so chubby and fair, looking utterly adorable?

Lele shook her head and said to Gu Qinglan, “Because I’m not a baby anymore! I’m going to kindergarten next week!”

Gu Qinglan couldn’t help but laugh. She pinched Lele’s cheek again and said, “Kindergarten kids are still babies!”

Lele snorted, puffed up her cheeks, and retorted indignantly, “I am NOT a baby!”

Gu Qinglan smiled and asked, “If you’re not a baby, then what are you?”

Lele raised her little face proudly and looked at Gu Qinglan, saying, “I will be a little kid soon!”

Gu Qinglan’s eyes lit up, and she clapped her hands in mock excitement. “Wow, amazing! Our Lele is going to be a little kid soon!”

She then noticed how the little one was beaming with pride, almost wagging her imaginary tail, and said, “Shall we go let Grandpa Zhao check on your mommy’s little baby now? What do you think?”

Lele turned around, took Wen Nuan’s hand, and said in her sweet, childlike voice, “Mom, follow me. Don’t be scared, okay? I’ll tell Grandpa Zhao not to give you any shots.”

Wen Nuan couldn’t help but laugh at her daughter’s attempt at reassurance but still responded with a smile, “Then Mom has to thank Lele.”

Just as they were about to enter Doctor Zhao’s office, they saw Li Yunhua returning alongside Doctor Zhao.

Seeing the two renowned medical professionals together put Wen Nuan at ease. She smiled and greeted them, “Doctor Li, Doctor Zhao.”

Li Yunhua stepped forward, giving Wen Nuan’s belly a quick glance before saying, “Congratulations, Comrade Wen Nuan, and Captain Gu.”

Both Wen Nuan and Gu Qinglan replied in unison, “Thank you, Doctor Li.”

Doctor Zhao, following behind, said, “Why are you all still standing around? Come inside and sit down. Let’s go, come in.”

The group followed Doctor Zhao into his office. After washing his hands, Doctor Zhao said, “Qinglan, please close the door.”

Then, turning to Wen Nuan, he said, “Comrade Wen Nuan, have a seat.”

It had been months since Wen Nuan last saw Doctor Zhao. She felt that he looked even more energetic and youthful than before, so she obediently sat down in the chair.

Doctor Zhao exchanged a glance with Li Yunhua, and then they began checking Wen Nuan’s pulse.

After a while, Doctor Zhao looked over at Li Yunhua and said, “Why don’t you come take a look as well?”

Li Yunhua chuckled and teased, “Is there something you’re unsure about?”

Even so, he walked over to Wen Nuan, took the seat Doctor Zhao vacated, and placed his fingers on her wrist to examine her pulse.

Gu Qinghan stepped forward anxiously, placing his hands gently on Wen Nuan’s shoulders from behind. His voice trembled slightly as he asked, “Doctors, is my wife okay?”

Hearing the nervous quiver in his voice, Wen Nuan was startled; it was the first time she had seen him so distressed. She reached out to hold his hand, giving his palm a comforting squeeze.

Doctor Li Yunhua and Doctor Zhao exchanged glances before breaking into smiles.

Doctor Li looked at Gu Qinghan and said with a chuckle, “Your wife is fine—this is your doing.”

Everyone in the room held their breath, waiting for an explanation. Doctor Li added with a smile, “Congratulations, Comrade Wen Nuan is carrying twins.”

“Tw…twins?” Gu Qinghan wiped his face with his hand, clearly unfamiliar with the concept of twins.

He hesitated and then asked, “Twins… is it dangerous? If it’s dangerous, then—”

Wen Nuan, still reeling from the shock of the announcement, was suddenly deeply moved by Gu Qinghan’s concern.

Doctor Li adjusted her glasses, smiling reassuringly. “There’s no need to worry. Comrade Wen Nuan is in good health. As long as she takes proper care of herself, there shouldn’t be any risks.”

Doctor Zhao nodded in agreement. “No need to stress. I’ll be here. I’ll visit the family compound every month to check on her. Just focus on resting and nurturing the babies.”

Doctor Li turned to Wen Nuan, asking in detail about her recent pregnancy symptoms and eating habits. Before Wen Nuan could respond, Gu Qinghan jumped in, answering on her behalf. He meticulously recounted her symptoms, dietary habits, and even her daily routine in precise detail.

“Everything seems fine,” Doctor Li concluded, nodding in approval. “No major issues, just be mindful of her diet and ensure she gets some extra fruit.”

The two doctors then took turns explaining various precautions and care tips. Gu Qinghan, seemingly out of nowhere, produced a notebook and pen, diligently jotting everything down.

Doctor Li, seeing his meticulous note-taking, looked slightly surprised.

In her many years of medical practice, she had rarely encountered a husband so attentive and caring. While she had treated many expectant mothers of twins, most came for their checkups alone or accompanied by sisters, mothers, or mothers-in-law.

Of course, some husbands came along, but their first question upon learning of the pregnancy was often, “Are they boys?”

Doctor Li found herself growing increasingly fond of this young couple. She made sure to explain everything in great detail, leaving no room for confusion.

“That’s about it,” she concluded. “If you have any questions later, don’t hesitate to come back and ask.”

Gu Qinghan closed his notebook, slipped his pen away, and nodded at the two doctors. “Thank you both.”

Wen Nuan, resting her hand on her belly, still found it hard to believe. Inside her, two little lives were growing.

Lele suddenly leaned in close to Wen Nuan, her soft little hand pressing against her belly as she smiled brightly and asked:

“Mom, do you have two little babies inside your tummy?”

Wen Nuan nodded, “Yes.”

Lele gasped, her eyes widening in excitement. “Then that means we’re going to have two little babies? So, Mom will have one, and Lele will have one!”

Wen Nuan smiled, hugging her child and giving her a kiss.

Before they left, Gu Qinghan stayed behind in the office, not sure what he was discussing with Doctor Zhao and the others.

Gu Qinglan, on the other hand, was over the moon. Although she had heard of people expecting twins before, Wen Nuan was the first person she knew to be having twins! It made her feel awed by the wonder of life.

Wen Nuan laughed as she watched Gu Qinglan curiously touch her belly, saying, “Qinglan, you’re a nurse, and you’re still making such a big fuss.”

“I’m just happy for you, really happy for you!” Gu Qinglan said, wrapping her arms around Lele. Both of them pressed their faces to Wen Nuan’s belly. “But sister, you’ll have to be extra careful from now on and eat more.”

“Luckily, it’s spring and summer now, so I can pick fruit for you every day!”

Lele immediately raised her hand, saying, “Auntie, I want to go too! I want to pick fruit for the little babies!”

Gu Qinglan cupped the little one’s face in her hands and kissed her. “Alright, we’ll go together.”

When Gu Qinghan came out, Gu Qinglan had already left to take care of something, so Wen Nuan curiously asked him, “What did you talk about with Doctor Zhao and the others?”

Gu Qinghan remained calm and said, “Just some precautions. Come on, let’s go home now.”

He then picked up Lele, saying, “Dad will carry you.”

Wen Nuan didn’t ask any more questions. Sometimes, Gu Qinghan could be very careful, though she wondered if the doctors ever found him overly cautious.

Lele smiled sweetly and said, “Okay!”

“Dad, don’t forget to buy me some ice pops, okay?”

Gu Qinghan glanced at the sweat on the child’s forehead and laughed, “I’ll buy you two!”

The little one beamed, showing off her neat, tiny teeth. “That’s awesome! I love Dad!”

“……”

She only loves him when there’s food!

By the time they went to the Supply and Marketing Cooperative to buy the ice pops and returned to the family compound, it was already noon.

The little one had an ice pop in each hand, alternating bites, and marched ahead with great pride.

Just as they were thinking of telling her to slow down, the little one dashed off with both ice pops toward the last row of red-brick houses.

Gu Qinghan chuckled in resignation. “Forget it, she’s probably eager to go tell Sister Guihua and the others the good news.”

Wen Nuan saw how happy Lele was and didn’t want to stop her, figuring they were already so close to home.

Just as they reached the front gate of the compound, they heard a deep, loud voice calling out, “What? Twins?”