Chapter 50: Returning Home

Once Qin Lang finished arranging everything at the base, they finally headed back, arriving just in time for New Year’s Eve at the Qin family home.

As soon as they walked in, Professor Song warmly approached, immediately taking Lin You’s hand and looking her over carefully. Concerned, she asked, “Yoyo, has Qin Lang been taking good care of you? You look like you’ve lost some weight.”

Lin You chuckled, “No, not at all! Look, I’ve actually gained a little.” She squeezed her cheeks to show.

Still not fully convinced, Professor Song led Lin You inside, all the while asking, “Really? So, what have you two been eating?”

Meanwhile, Qin’s father took Qin Lang’s luggage and, exchanging a knowing glance, shook his head with a small smile as they walked into the house.

Once they reached the living room, Professor Song had Lin You sit on the couch, closely observing her complexion and spirit. Though she couldn’t tell if she’d gained weight, seeing that Lin You looked healthy and in good spirits put her worries to rest, clearly, the couple was doing well.

Lin You noticed that Professor Song herself seemed in good health, too. It was obvious that having Qin’s father by her side during this period had lifted her spirits. It seemed true, after all, that a woman’s happiness often flourishes with her partner’s support.

Both women shared a mutual understanding, smiling as they held each other close.

The two women chatted on the sofa, while the men busied themselves in the kitchen, bringing food to the table as they finished. When Qin Lang walked over, he bent down with a grin, saying, “Ladies, shall we start dinner?”

Lin You stifled a laugh at his formal tone, but Professor Song ignored him completely, leading Lin You over to the table. Lin You glanced back at Qin Lang, trying not to giggle at his mixed expression of amusement and exasperation.

Qin Lang sighed. “Mom, your son’s back, too. Couldn’t you spare me a look?”

Professor Song rolled her eyes. “Go see your dad we still haven’t finished catching up.”

Left standing, Qin Lang looked over to his father, who simply patted his shoulder and ushered him to the table.

Over dinner, the four of them shared stories and discussed plans for the New Year. The room was filled with warmth and laughter.

In the past, New Year’s Eve in the Qin household was often quiet, with Qin’s father usually spending it with his soldiers on duty and Qin Lang staying at the base. Often, it was just Lin You and Professor Song, and occasionally, Professor Song would be called to work a last-minute hospital shift. This reunion, with all four of them together, felt especially precious. They raised their glasses, savoring the moment.

---

Later, in Qin’s father’s study.

Qin’s father looked seriously at Qin Lang. “You’ve met the Lu family now. Are they trustworthy?”

Qin Lang nodded. “The Lu family is wealthy but keeps a low profile. Lu Li has no intention of taking over the family business, and Lu’s father is already stepping back.”

“Lu’s father is gradually pulling out of the capital’s business scene.”

Qin’s father nodded approvingly. “In a market like this, knowing when to step back is rare.”

He then added, “It’s good that Yoyo has family like them.”

He looked at his son, reflecting, “If the Lu family had found Yoyo earlier, you might not have had a chance. Fate is strange that way.”

Qin Lang nodded, silently grateful. If she hadn’t married him early on, the Lu family’s status might have put her out of his reach.

Qin’s father’s voice grew firm. “Everyone in our family should treat Yoyo well. We can’t let her suffer.”

“Yes, sir.”

The two continued to discuss work and policies.

---

In the bedroom, Lin You and Professor Song continued talking. Professor Song brought out the new jewelry, bags, and clothes she’d bought for Lin You, proudly showing each item.

Lin You, realizing how much Professor Song had splurged, shook her head with a laugh. “Mom, that’s too much! I hardly have time to wear all of this, and I’ll be leaving soon.”

Professor Song sighed, “I know, but I just can’t help it. When I see something beautiful, I have to buy it.”

Lin You gently teased, “Then maybe don’t go shopping as often.”

That opened a floodgate for Professor Song. “Yoyo, now that I’m not on duty much and younger doctors handle most surgeries, I have more free time. When Old Qin doesn’t come home for dinner, and with you gone, I don’t feel like cooking just for myself, so I eat out. And while I’m out, I end up shopping!”

Lin You nodded sympathetically, understanding that cooking for one can feel lonely.

“You don’t know how often I miss you during those times.”

“I miss you too. But next time, please save the shopping for yourself and Dad.”

Lin You got up and took out the gifts she’d bought for them back in the capital.

For Professor Song, there was a shawl, a pair of jade bracelets, a watch, and some outfits. For Qin’s father, she’d bought some warm clothing and health products, mindful of his official position.

Professor Song smiled, “Yoyo, you tease me about shopping, but you’re just as indulgent!”

Lin You laughed, unable to respond.

Just then, Qin Lang entered. Curious, he asked, “What’s so funny?”

Before Lin You could answer, Professor Song said, “Oh, we were just laughing at our shared love of shopping. Like mother, like daughter.”

Qin Lang glanced at the items and smirked. “Yoyo has nothing on you, Mom.”

Professor Song raised an eyebrow. “Oh, so you’ve forgotten your mother for your wife?”

Qin Lang shot back, “Look who’s forgotten her son for her daughter in law!”

Both burst into laughter, sharing a hug.

“Mom.”

“My boy.”

Once Professor Song returned to her room, Lin You went to freshen up. Qin Lang tidied the bed, then lay back, resting his eyes.

When Lin You emerged, she noticed he appeared to be asleep. She went back into the bathroom to dry her hair. Hearing the hair dryer, Qin Lang got up and joined her, taking the dryer from her hands.

“You weren’t asleep? Did I wake you?”

“No, I wasn’t asleep anyway.”

“Maybe I should cut it short before we go back.”

“Sure, just a bit.”

Afterward, Qin Lang lifted her onto the bed, glancing at the clock, which read past midnight. He gently kissed her forehead and murmured, “Sleep now.”

“Mm, goodnight.”

“Goodnight.”