Chapter 21: Conflict

Ou Cheng looked at Leng Mohan with a helpless expression. “Was I talking to you back then? I told you, in the army, avoid conflict; use words instead of fists. But when have you ever listened to me? You always go against me, and every time, I have to clean up your mess. I’m really doing you a favor.”

Leng Mohan lightly touched his nose, understanding that his squadron leader had indeed handled many difficult situations for him.

He calmly said, “I’ve already checked on the approval process; everything is going smoothly, and it should be approved soon. As for the house, there are no new buildings available, but we still have some vacant properties in the old district. You can go and take a look and choose one you like.”

Ou Cheng offered a suggestion, “The yard next to my house is vacant. I went to check it yesterday. Although the exterior looks a bit dilapidated, the interior is in very good condition. The floor is neatly tiled, and the layout of the bathroom and kitchen is very reasonable, clearly a careful renovation by the previous occupants.”

“You can go and take a look. If you think it’s suitable, we’ll settle on that. That way, when you’re on a mission, my wife and I can also help look after Luo Jiaojiao.” Ou Cheng knew about Luo Jiaojiao’s situation; a pampered young lady was indeed a bit difficult to handle.

A glimmer of brightness flashed in Leng Mohan’s eyes. In the army, the only people he truly trusted, besides his squadron leader, were his squadron leader’s wife.

When he went on missions, he would definitely need their help looking after Luo Jiaojiao.

After all, it would take Luo Xingchen two or three months to get here, and Luo Xingchen lived near the military hospital, far from here.

Leng Mohan knew that a near neighbor is better than a distant relative. If the house next to the squadron leader’s was vacant, he thought it would be an excellent choice to move there.

“Okay, I’ll go and take a look. If it’s suitable, we’ll settle on it. If not, I’ll just renovate it. I’ll start packing and preparing to buy furniture tomorrow.” Leng Mohan had already made a mental list, planning to borrow money to buy things. After all, he would have to support a delicate wife, and the expenses would be considerable.

“Do you have enough money? Otherwise, I’ll lend you some for renovations and furniture. Also, you and Jiaojiao are married. Although you don’t plan to have a grand wedding, you should still buy her things; don’t let her feel wronged.”

“Enough. I haven’t really used my salary all these years.” Leng Mohan then remembered that he hadn’t even prepared the legendary “three turns and one ring” for Luo Jiaojiao. He had only bought her some clothes, and the food didn’t count. It seemed he really needed to start preparing.

“Squadron Leader, I have two days left before I return to the army; there’s not enough time. I need to pack the house, prepare furniture, and buy various things. Can you give me two more days off?”

“I don’t even have time to accompany Jiaojiao to buy large items. This week is too rushed for me. We’re not having a wedding, but at least I need time to be good to her. You can’t just say you want me to be good to her without giving me the actual time to do it.” Leng Mohan’s gaze held a hint of earnestness.

He spoke again, “Please give me two more days. I guarantee I’ll train seriously and will not slack off.”

Ou Cheng hesitated. After all, the month-end competition was imminent, and any mistake could affect the overall situation.

Leng Mohan saw his concern and softly said, “Don’t worry, I’ll give them two more days of rest. I’ll check their training in the morning. I’m confident in my abilities; first place will still be ours. I’ll also participate in morning exercises as usual.”

Ou Cheng’s worries eased slightly. He nodded. “Okay, I believe you. Remember what you said; if you don’t get first place, you’d better reflect on yourself.”

Although the saying goes, “The early bird gets the worm,” with Leng Mohan’s protection, those who wanted to target him would have to think twice.

Hearing Leng Mohan’s assessment, he felt relieved about Luo Jiaojiao’s personality. As long as she was kind-hearted, she could learn household chores gradually. Leng Mohan also mentioned her beauty, so he wouldn’t let her overwork.

Ou Cheng still worriedly advised, “We know Jiaojiao’s background. She was used by Luo Jiahui to build connections, and she knows almost nothing about housework. You need to be more tolerant and patiently teach her. Don’t be too harsh on her, or she might not get along with you.”

“I understand. Now I need to go see the house. When I’m on a mission, please take care of her and Aunt Qin.” Leng Mohan earnestly requested.

Ou Cheng was surprised. This was the first time he had seen Leng Mohan so humble. He nodded. “Don’t worry, with your background in the army, who would dare to cause trouble? And with your ruthless methods, who would dare to invite trouble?”

Leng Mohan felt relieved.

“Go ahead. It’s best to take Luo Jiaojiao with you to look at the house. After all, it’s where you’ll be living; it should satisfy both of you.” Ou Cheng suggested, hoping he would involve Luo Jiaojiao in this important decision.

“No need, I can go alone. She’ll listen to me; if I say it’s suitable, she won’t object.” Leng Mohan’s tone was firm.

Ou Cheng helplessly shook his head and teased, “When will you change your domineering personality? Be careful not to scare the girl away.”

Leng Mohan didn’t think so; he believed he was doing it for her good.

“Squadron Leader, if there’s nothing else, I’ll go.” Leng Mohan turned and left.

Ou Cheng watched his back and sighed helplessly, “Go, go. You make me angry every time you come back. I can’t do anything about you.”

Leng Mohan was also speechless; he didn’t really anger him, did he?

Leng Mohan glanced at the squadron leader, relieved that he wasn’t really angry. Now the most important thing was to quickly see the house, then get the key from the logistics department, and clarify things with Wenwen at the broadcasting station. He knew he had to clear things up with Wenwen; he couldn’t let anyone talk nonsense in front of Luo Jiaojiao.

He thought of Luo Jiaojiao’s bright eyes. Whenever he mentioned his relationship with other girls, those eyes would lose their luster, like a moon obscured by clouds.

He could see that Luo Jiaojiao, while seemingly strong on the surface, was sensitive and fragile inside. He didn’t want to see her hurt by misunderstandings.