Chapter 21 – He Zhiyuan

“Let’s go, time to head home,” Zhong Youliang said, seeing his old friend’s face turn pale with frustration thanks to his troublesome son. He couldn’t help but sigh — daughters really are better.

“Daddy, I want to ride the big horse,” little Lingling looked up at her dad expectantly.

“Of course.” Zhong Youliang gladly obliged. He lifted his daughter onto his shoulders, waited until she was steady, then began jogging in a playful, uneven pace.

All the way home, little Lingling’s delighted cheers rang out. If they hadn’t reached home, Zhong Youliang felt like he could’ve run a few more laps just to hear her giggles.

After the shoulder ride, the bond between Xiao Zhong Ling and her father grew rapidly. Even at mealtime, she was reluctant to leave his arms. Zhong Youliang was just as unwilling to set her down and was about to feed her himself when He Jingshu gave a warning cough.

Zhong Ling obediently slid off and sat properly, using a small spoon to eat her food, bite after bite. She didn’t even mention wanting her dad to feed her anymore.

He Yashu was happy to see the father-daughter bond, but seeing how Zhong Youliang spoiled his daughter, she thought, If I don’t step in, this little girl will be pampered rotten. She wouldn’t be able to handle that.

“Mommy, I’ll go wash the dishes,” said little Zhong Ling cheerfully, carrying her bowl to the kitchen.

“I’ll help too,” said Zhong Youliang, genuinely proud of his daughter. Look at her, washing dishes at such a young age. So well-behaved.

“I’m taking Lingling to see my old superior so he can meet her too,” said Zhong Youliang eagerly. Ever since He Yashu agreed to move with the military, he couldn’t wait — he immediately wanted to show off his daughter.

“Sir!” Zhong Youliang saluted as he set his daughter down.

“Ah, Xiao Zhong, this your daughter? She’s beautiful,” said He Zhiyuan with a kindly smile. He and his wife had no children, so he had a soft spot for them.

“Lingling, greet Grandpa,” Zhong Youliang said as he picked her up.

“Hello Grandpa, I’m Zhong Ling.” Little Zhong Ling had been introducing herself ever since arriving at the base and never showed impatience. Her mom told her it was polite and that others introduce themselves too. To be a well-mannered baby, she even added a sweet, soft smile for He Zhiyuan.

“Come here, let Grandpa hold you,” He Zhiyuan melted, delighted as he took her into his arms.

“Sir, I’d like to file an expedited request to have my wife and daughter officially move with me,” Zhong Youliang said proudly, eyes fixed on his daughter.

“Your wife agreed to join the military life? Expedited processing still takes around 20 days.” These days, it was common to request it — many couldn’t read well and often messed up the paperwork.

“That’s fine. Lingling only met her dad at three years old. I don’t want her to forget me after we leave,” Zhong Youliang chuckled.

“You rascal. With a daughter like that, of course you should take good care of her. I’ll approve it,” said He Zhiyuan, eyes still full of affection for little Zhong Ling.

“Thank you Grandpa! I like Grandpa the most!” Little Zhong Ling chimed sweetly.

But Zhong Youliang was instantly sour. Shouldn’t she like her dad the most? How can Grandpa be her favorite?

“Sir, we’ll be heading back now. Her mom’s waiting with dinner,” he said, clearly jealous.

“Alright, take care. When you’re free, bring Lingling to visit my wife too — I’m sure she’ll love her,” said He Zhiyuan warmly.

“Will do.” Zhong Youliang’s impression of the commander’s wife was of a gloomy, somber woman — rarely smiling. But holding this adorable little bundle of joy? Who could resist that? Suddenly, he was full of confidence.

“Mom!” As soon as they got home, little Zhong Ling leapt into He Jingshu’s arms.

“Jingshu, the commander approved our expedited request,” Zhong Youliang announced with a grin.

“Alright. I’ll find time to send a telegram to my parents,” said He Jingshu calmly, not surprised.

Zhong Youliang then brought up visiting the commander’s wife. Since He Jingshu didn’t have a job, she figured it was good for their daughter to be exposed to more of the world, so she readily agreed.

Zhong Youliang, ever the overthinker, felt giddy inside seeing her agree so easily. This is just perfect.