Love and Desire in the Sea [Complete] - 29

Love and Desire (186)

Chapter 184

On the way home, Mao Yuqin kept holding Ru Han and looking at him, asking him questions. Halfway there, Mao Yuqin excitedly whispered to Ouyang Mei, "Meizi, this child looks just like your brother when he was little, so much like him. Your brother had the same face and mannerisms when he was little, just like him." Ouyang Mei nodded and looked at Ru Han, whispering, "He also looks like Dongdong when he was little." Mao Yuqin nodded and whispered, "Yes, this child is definitely ours, definitely our child, no doubt about it, just like him, so much like him." Although Ru Han could hear Mao Yuqin and Ouyang Mei's words, he didn't understand what they meant, and he didn't know what they meant by "looks like him." Mao Yuqin and Ouyang Mei kept looking at him, making him a little uncomfortable.

Liu Yan, sitting in the passenger seat, didn't hear Mao Yuqin and Ouyang Mei's conversation. She glanced at Ouyang Yiming from time to time, but didn't dare to talk to Ouyang Yiming who was driving.

She was afraid of distracting him. At that moment, Liu Yan felt a complex mix of emotions. She had so much to say to Ouyang Yiming, but she knew it wasn't the right time. Watching Ouyang Yiming skillfully drive the car, looking at his face that she could never forget, Liu Yan thought to herself, "I'm finally back with my lover, finally I can be with my man, finally our child can live with us..." Amidst this excitement and exhilaration, she also felt a pang of indescribable grievance and sorrow. She longed to throw herself into Ouyang Yiming's arms and cry her heart out, to pour out all her longing, all her grievances, all her bitterness...

It seemed as if a frail, helpless woman, who had suffered so much longing and grievance, had finally returned to the side of the strong man she so deeply loved. They had met, they were reunited, and all she wanted was to be held, embraced, and kissed by this man... Ouyang Yiming also turned to look at Liu Yan beside him from time to time, and his feelings seemed to be no different from Liu Yan's. The woman beside him, the love of his life, the woman he longed to have for a lifetime, the woman who also loved him deeply and had already borne him a son… He only wanted to hold her tightly in his arms, to cherish her, to love her, to kiss her…

He thought that for the rest of his life, he would use all his love to protect this woman beside him, and never let her suffer any injustice again… Passing by Wuchaomen Park, Liu Yan's heart pounded. She turned her head and glanced at it a few times, then thought of the big tree where she and Ouyang Yiming had countless dates, and the countless times they had made love under that tree. Thinking of it, she blushed, thinking to herself that she must come here with Ouyang Yiming in a few days. Deep down, she also had a very deep affection for that tree. Ouyang Yiming glanced at Liu Yan looking into the park, and naturally, he too thought of that big tree, and of what they had done under it. Her face flushed slightly, and when she turned and met Liu Yan's gaze, they smiled at each other, and her heart skipped a beat again…

On the way home, they passed the east wall of the hospital where Liu Yan had worked and lived for many years. At that moment, a pang of sorrow rose in Liu Yan's heart, and she lamented, "If I hadn't left this place back then, I wouldn't have been separated from Ouyang Yiming for so many years, and that irreparable thing with Zhang Lei wouldn't have happened." Besides her own sorrow, a deep sense of guilt towards Ouyang Yiming welled up within her. She silently said to herself, "Ouyang Yiming, I'm sorry. I will regret the mistakes I've made for the rest of my life, but I will never do anything to wrong you again. I will be a good wife to you, a good mother to our children. I will be a virtuous wife and loving mother, devoted to my husband and children. Yiming, I will love you faithfully for the rest of my life…"

The car entered the residential area and stopped in front of a building. Ouyang Yiming turned to Liu Yan and said, "We're home." Tears welled up in Liu Yan's eyes. After getting out of the car, Mao Yuqin said to Ruhan, "Grandson, we're home." Ruhan didn't reply. Ouyang Yiming took Liu Yan's hand, pointed upstairs, and said, "Look, the third floor, the third floor is our home. We're home..." Liu Yan nodded vigorously, tears streaming down her face. Seeing Liu Yan's tears, Ouyang Yiming felt a pang of sadness and unconsciously put his arm around her shoulder, leading her towards the stairwell. Mao Yuqin and Ouyang Mei watched from behind, their hearts filled with emotion and reflection... Ouyang Yiming took out his key and opened the door. At that moment, Liu Yan didn't step forward, her eyes fixed on the room, tears streaming down her face again. She turned to Ouyang Yiming and asked, "Our home?"

Ouyang Yiming nodded vigorously and said, "Our home, our home with the children..." Liu Yan trembled, tears streaming down her face, and murmured, "I've finally, finally come to our home..." Ouyang Yiming uttered a soft "Mmm," but couldn't suppress the sorrow in his heart. Liu Yan rested her head on Ouyang Yiming's shoulder, oblivious to everyone else. At that moment, she was unaware of anyone else, only of herself and the man she loved. Ouyang Yiming embraced her and led her inside… After entering, Liu Yan looked around and suddenly realized that their son and Ouyang Yiming's family were also in the apartment. Her face flushed slightly, and she quickly broke free from Ouyang Yiming's embrace, wiping away her tears. She glanced shyly at Mao Yuqin and Ouyang Mei before lowering her head. She immediately looked up at Mao Yuqin and said, "Mom, put Ruhan down quickly. Carrying him upstairs is tiring."

Ouyang Mei said, "Just now, I wanted to carry Ruhan upstairs, but Mom wouldn't let me. She didn't want me to carry him." Mao Yuqin smiled and said, "It's not tiring, it's not tiring at all. Come sit down." The group sat down, and Ouyang Yiming went to the refrigerator, opened the door, and took out a few cans of drinks, saying, "I've never boiled water here by myself. There are drinks and mineral water here." The group took the drinks, and Ouyang Mei said, "Sister Yanzi is here. From now on, this feels like home." Mao Yuqin opened a drink and handed it to Ruhan, telling him to drink slowly. Then she looked up and said, "We should get the things we need quickly. We'll be living a comfortable life from now on, and we can't lack anything."

Ouyang Yiming said, "I'll go shopping with Liu Yan another day." Liu Yan nodded. Ouyang Yiming stood up, took Liu Yan's hand, and said, "Come on, let me show you around. See if you need anything."

Liu Yan stood up, her face instantly turning red again. She glanced at Mao Yuqin and Ouyang Mei, then said to Ouyang Yiming, "Let's wait a bit before we look." Mao Yuqin looked up at them and said, "You two go ahead and look."

Only then did Liu Yan follow Ouyang Yiming.

Ouyang Mei watched them enter the bedroom, then peeked into Mao Yuqin's room and said, "Mom, can you believe how deep my brother and Sister Yan's feelings are? If you ask me, it seems like my brother's feelings for her are even stronger than his feelings for Sister Hui." Mao Yuqin nodded. Ouyang Mei said, "You can see it clearly from my brother and Sister Yanzi's eyes and expressions. Now I understand that the person my brother truly loves is Sister Yanzi. If my brother's feelings for Sister Yanzi were slightly weaker, he wouldn't have given up Jia Ruorui. I'd heard my brother talk about them before, but I never imagined they would love each other like this." Mao Yuqin said, "The key is the child." Ouyang Mei said, "No, it's not just because of the child. It's true love; I can see it in their every move."

Mao Yuqin nodded and said, "I can see it too. Your brother and Liu Yanzi truly have feelings for each other. We should bless them for being together. But..." She paused. She sighed softly, glanced at Ru Han, and whispered to Ouyang Mei, "My biggest regret is that Liu Yan was married to another man." Ouyang Mei nodded and said, "Sigh, it would be perfect if none of that happened. Actually, as long as two people love each other, it doesn't matter." Mao Yuqin said, "I'm afraid people will gossip about your brother." She sighed deeply and said, "It's such a tragedy. How could her parents bear to break them up? Apart from the disparity in their family status, these two children are a perfect match." Ouyang Mei didn't speak, but her mind drifted to Xu Hui. If Liu Yan's parents had agreed to Ouyang Yiming and Liu Yan's marriage back then, how heartbroken Xu Hui would have been! At this moment, Ouyang Mei's mind was somewhat confused. After a while, she thought that perhaps everything was predestined. If Xu Hui hadn't passed away, even if Ouyang Yiming and Liu Yan were deeply in love, they would never have been able to be together in this life.

A large, fashionable double bed was placed in the bedroom. Ouyang Yiming said, "I didn't buy anything else; you can decide on the wardrobe and everything else." Liu Yan nodded and asked:

"You live here every day?" Ouyang Yiming said, "I don't live here permanently. My workplace has a dormitory room for me to rest in, and I spend most of my time there." Suddenly remembering something, he said, "Liu Yan, I live here all by myself; there's never anyone else here." Liu Yan glanced at him and said irritably, "Silly girl, I didn't mean anything by it." Ouyang Yiming glanced at the door, walked over, pulled Liu Yan into his arms, and pressed his lips to hers. Liu Yan was stunned for a moment, then hurriedly pulled away, blushing, and said, "Mom and my sister are in the living room, tonight..." Ouyang Yiming felt a tingling sensation in his heart and whispered, "I really miss you." Liu Yan's eyes reddened and she said, "I miss you even more." After saying that, she quickly added, "Bear with it, okay?

" Ouyang Yiming nodded.

After visiting all the rooms, they returned to the sofa in the living room. Ouyang Yiming said, "I don't know how to decorate either, it's all up to Liu Yan." Liu Yan glanced at Mao Yuqin and said, "I don't know how to decorate either." Ouyang Mei said, "You two should discuss it. This house belongs to you and Ruhan, so Ruhan should also give his opinion." She reached out and touched Ruhan's face, saying, "Is it little Ruhan?" Ruhan didn't understand, but still managed to say "Yes." This made everyone laugh. Ruhan was a little confused, but he smiled too. Ouyang Yiming reached out and hugged Ruhan, a surge of joy and happiness as a father welling up inside him. At this moment, he really wanted Ruhan to call him "Dad" a few more times, a word that stirred his heart and soul, yet also felt strange and unfamiliar. He glanced at Mao Yuqin and Ouyang Mei but still felt too embarrassed to say it to Ruhan. At that moment, he still felt like he was in a dream: "Am I really a father now? Am I really a dad now?" He felt overjoyed and excited... After

talking for a while, Liu Yan asked about Ouyang Mei's workplace and whether Mao Yuqin was busy. Mao Yuqin then asked Liu Yan about her job, and Liu Yan said, "My parents are processing my transfer. I'd like an easier job so I can take care of my child and Yiming." Mao Yuqin and Ouyang Mei were touched by this. Ouyang Yiming said, "What do I need you to take care of? We can hire a nanny for the child. You still need to think about your career." Liu Yan smiled and said, "I don't have any grand ambitions. I just want to take good care of this family and the two of you. I don't have much education or ability. If I had my sister's education and skills, I would consider my career. But no matter what I do, I will do it seriously."

Ouyang Mei said, "You're still doing this for my brother and Ruhan." Mao Yuqin said, "You two should think about this carefully and discuss it seriously." She paused and asked, "Liu Yan, are you going back this time?" Liu Yan said, "I'm not planning to go back. There are some things I can't take on the plane. Mom said she'll send something over later, depending on what we need here." Mao Yuqin nodded. Liu Yan said, "Mom, Yiming, sister, my mother asked me to apologize to you before I came. She said she was sorry to you, especially to Yiming." Ouyang Yiming felt a pang of sadness upon hearing this. Mao Yuqin said, "Actually, parents always think of their children's best interests and wouldn't want to harm them. Never mind, there's no need to apologize

. It's good that you're together now." Liu Yan nodded. She also occasionally added food to Ouyang Yiming's plate, and when she felt she was being a bit overbearing, she would occasionally put some on Mao Yuqin and Ouyang Mei's plates. Ouyang Yiming ate with his head down, saying little, but occasionally glancing at Liu Yan.

After dinner, back home, Mao Yuqin asked Ruhan, "Ruhan, would you like to sleep with Grandma and Auntie?" Mao Yuqin, being an experienced woman, naturally understood the passion Liu Yan and Ouyang Yiming felt after meeting, and of course didn't want the child to affect them. But she didn't want to say it directly, and didn't know if Ruhan would be willing, or if he would be noisy in the middle of the night. Ruhan didn't answer Mao Yuqin's question, but turned to look at Liu Yan. Liu Yan's heart skipped a beat; she understood Mao Yuqin's meaning, blushed, and asked Ruhan, "Would you like to sleep with Grandma?" "Ruhan, raised by a nanny since childhood, wasn't too bothered by spending the night with Liu Yan, so he nodded. Although Ouyang Mei was still a girl who hadn't experienced anything between men and women, she understood her brother's feelings and possible actions after meeting Liu Yan. She blushed and looked down at Ruhan, saying, 'Ruhan is such a good boy. He sleeps with his aunt and grandma tonight, and his aunt will tell him lots of stories.'

Ruhan excitedly said, 'Auntie, I love listening to stories. Auntie, can you tell 'The Wild Swans,' 'The Old House,' 'The Frog Prince,' 'The Emperor's New Clothes,' 'Little Red Riding Hood,' and 'Snow White'?' Ouyang Mei was astonished. Of course, she knew Ruhan was talking about stories from Grimm's Fairy Tales and Andersen's Fairy Tales. She glared at him and said,

'This kid knows so much! Of course I can tell them, and your grandma can too. Who tells them to you?' Ruhan said, 'My aunt tells them to me, and my mom tells them to me.'" "Liu Yan said, 'Ruhan likes listening to stories, so I bought a book and will read it to him after he reads it. My nanny does the same; she tells him more stories.' Mao Yuqin said happily, 'That's good. A child's thirst for knowledge is cultivated from a young age.' She paused, looked at Ruhan, and said, 'Ruhan, let's go over there, and let your aunt tell you stories you haven't heard before.' Ruhan excitedly said repeatedly, 'Okay, okay!' Mao Yuqin turned to Liu Yan and whispered, 'Can the child leave you at night?'

Liu Yan blushed again and said, 'He can. He's always slept with the nanny since he was little; he doesn't care about me.' Mao Yuqin said, 'That's good.' She turned to Ouyang Yiming and said, 'Take us to the guesthouse.'" Ouyang Yiming understood Mao Yuqin's meaning, and blushed as he agreed. Liu Yan suggested they go together, saying she wanted to see Ouyang Yiming's workplace.

On the way, Ouyang Yiming said to Mao Yuqin, "Mom, you can rest in my dorm. There's a phone in my room, so you can let us know if anything happens." Liu Yan knew Ouyang Yiming was worried about Ruhan causing trouble in the middle of the night, so she said, "Ruhan won't cause trouble." Ruhan then said, "I'm a good child." Everyone laughed. Mao Yuqin said, "Ruhan is a good child, a good child." She then asked Ouyang Yiming, "Is your bed big enough?" Ouyang Yiming said, "Yes, it's big enough. I was given a double bed."

After saying a few words at Ouyang Yiming's dorm, Mao Yuqin said to Ouyang Yiming and Liu Yan, "You can go back now." Liu Yan then told Ruhan to listen to her grandmother and aunt, and Ruhan nodded, saying, "Ruhan will listen." Ouyang Yiming quietly tugged at Liu Yan, who understood. Outside the door, Mao Yuqin called out to Ouyang Yiming, approached him, pulled him aside, and whispered, "Yiming, I've seen your relationship with Liu Yan. As long as you two are happy for the rest of your lives, I have nothing more to say. As your mother, of course I wish you both well. Since you've decided to be together, I believe you've thought it through carefully. You should treat her well. In the future, say what needs to be said, and never say what shouldn't be said. What I mean is, never hurt her with your words. You should understand what I mean. I can also see that Liu Yan is a very strong-willed person; you must never hurt her pride. Liu Yan is determined to be with you; otherwise, she wouldn't have given birth to your child. Although I don't particularly admire Liu Yan's initial actions, I'm very clear about her feelings for you. You must respect each other to have a good life together. Of course, Meizi and I have also seen your feelings for her since you met." But I hope your feelings for her are genuine, not just a fleeting impulse. Since you've accepted her, you should treat her well. Alright, I won't say any more. You two should get your marriage certificate done as soon as possible, otherwise, it'll be a mistake if others find out you're living together. Go on."

Ouyang Yiming nodded, blushing, and said, "I understand." He then walked away. Downstairs

, Ouyang Yiming said to Liu Yan, "Do you know what Mom told me?" Liu Yan turned to look at him. Ouyang Yiming said, "Mom told me to get our marriage certificate done soon, because she's worried we'll make a mistake living together like this." Liu Yan nodded and said, "I thought of that, and I brought a letter of introduction." Ouyang Yiming said, "That's great! Let's go get it done tomorrow or the day after." Liu Yan felt a surge of warmth in her heart, and tears welled up in her eyes again. She understood the significance of having a marriage certificate; for so many years, hadn't she been hoping to become a real couple with Ouyang Yiming? The crucial point was that Ouyang Yiming's mother had now suggested they get married, meaning she was accepted by Ouyang's family. A mix of bittersweet emotions welled up inside her, and tears streamed down her face without her realizing it.

Entering the office, Ouyang Yiming closed the door and led Liu Yan inside. Liu Yan looked around, then turned to Ouyang Yiming and said, "Yiming, I really didn't expect you to progress so quickly. In my heart, you've always been the best man, but I never imagined you could develop to this level in just a few years." Ouyang Yiming said, "It's all because the leaders value me." He was quite proud as he spoke. He suddenly thought, "If I had gone with Liu Yan after graduation, what unit would I be assigned to now? But I can imagine I would never have achieved what I have now. Is all of this predetermined?" People often say that every loss has its gain, and perhaps that's really true. Thinking about this, he felt a strange sense of relief and comfort. He thought, "Perhaps life is like this; good things don't always favor one person, and bad things don't always fall on one person's head. Now, Heaven has given me the woman I love and my son again, and I should be content with everything..." His heart pounded with emotion as he looked at Liu Yan, pulled her into his arms, and after a moment of eye contact, their lips met. At that moment, neither of them could control themselves; their almost frantic kiss made them forget where they were...

After a while, Liu Yan, panting, said, "Let's go home." Ouyang Yiming nodded, his face flushed. At that moment, their desire was so intense... The moment they entered the house and closed the door, Ouyang Yiming bent down and picked up Liu Yan. Liu Yan wrapped her arms tightly around Ouyang Yiming's neck, buried her head in his chest, her chest heaving, her breath coming in ragged gasps. They stopped in front of the bed in the bedroom, their eyes meeting, without a word, their hands trembling as they began to unbutton each other's clothes. Finally, finally, two smooth bodies were presented to each other's eyes. There was no careful appreciation, no utterance. Ouyang Yiming picked up Liu Yan, gently placed her on the bed, and hastily pressed down on her…

The moment he penetrated, Liu Yan tightly hugged Ouyang Yiming's neck, breathing heavily. As Ouyang Yiming thrust impatiently, Liu Yan murmured, "Yiming, I love you, I love you…" This couple, who hadn't experienced the sweetness of love for years, now felt only primal desire, only the pleasure of release. With Liu Yan's calls and moans of pleasure, they both reached climax so quickly… They lay together, as if their bones had been pulled out. Liu Yan tightly hugged Ouyang Yiming's waist, and after a few breaths, a sudden pang of sorrow gripped her heart, and tears streamed down her face as she sobbed.

Ouyang Yiming looked up at her in alarm and asked, "What's wrong?" He tried to get up, but Liu Yan hugged him tightly, crying, "Yiming, I'm finally back by your side, finally your woman. All these years I've thought about you every day, longed for you every day, and today, today I've finally waited for it. Yiming, I will never leave you again in this life, never again. I love you, I love you, Yiming, there's no one else in this world I'll care about like you. Yiming, can you know how much I've missed you these past few years? I was almost collapsing, Yiming, I missed you so much, so much..." Tears streamed down Ouyang Yiming's face. Come on, he nodded vigorously and said, "Liu Yan, I know, I know. Liu Yan, I've never forgotten you all these years, you're always in my heart! Liu Yan, in this life, I will never let you leave me again, never again..." Liu Yan said, "Yiming, in this life, even if I die, I will die by your side. Without you, my life would have no meaning. I want to serve you for the rest of my life." Ouyang Yiming said, "Liu Yan, in this life, no matter what we experience, as long as you are by my side, I will be the happiest. I will cherish you and love you well..." Liu Yan nodded, sobbing.

Ouyang Yiming still struggled to get off Liu Yan's body. Only then did he worry that his tall body would crush Liu Yan. After they cleaned themselves up, Ouyang Yiming sat on the edge of the bed and held Liu Yan in his arms. Liu Yan said, "Yiming, a few days ago, I was so worried that you wouldn't accept me anymore. I was really scared." Ouyang Yiming said, "You too, you've been divorced for so many years, why didn't you let me know?" Liu Yan said, "I always thought you and Xu Hui were doing well. I didn't want to disturb your lives, even though I love you, I still couldn't bear to. How could I have imagined Xu Hui..." Ouyang Yiming said, "You're really foolish. That time you came to see me, why didn't you explain everything to me? What couldn't we discuss? Even if you were determined that we could never be together, why did you still get pregnant with our child? Didn't you think about how many things you would encounter in the future if we couldn't be together in this life?"

Liu Yan She said, "Back then, I didn't think about anything else. I just thought I loved you. Even if we couldn't live together, I wanted to have a child with you. I didn't think much about it. I've never regretted it, really. I did think that when the child grew up, I would tell you that the child was yours, and I hesitated because I thought it would affect your life. Now, now I don't have to worry about this anymore, and I don't have to worry about Ruhan anymore." She paused and then said, "Yiming, Jinling lied to you when she told me that I hadn't considered personal matters these past few years. I can't hide it from you. A few months ago, I started dating someone, a university professor. I used you as a benchmark when we were together, but no one can enter my heart. The reason I wanted to find someone back then was because I was worried that Ruhan would soon..." "He needs to grow up, and I'm afraid a single-parent family will affect his development. Actually, I just want to find a father for Ruhan. But I don't have feelings for him. Yiming, nothing happened between us, absolutely nothing. Even holding hands was on the day we broke up. Do you believe me?" Ouyang Yiming said, "I believe you." Liu Yan said, "Actually, deep down, I still feel like I'd be letting you down if I were with anyone else. I always feel like I've let you down because I'm married.

Actually, I understand that deep down, I've always considered you my husband." Ouyang Yiming said, "Liu Yan, although Xu Hui and I were together for a few years, we didn't spend much time together. Not long after I started working, Xu Hui went abroad to study for two years. Although before she went abroad, I..." She got her marriage certificate. But neither of us ever did that kind of thing. Liu Yan was startled and looked up at Ouyang Yiming, asking, "You...you two never did?" Ouyang Yiming said, "I'm not lying to you. Xu Hui remained a virgin until her death. She was a woman I don't quite understand, but I admired her self-respect; she was so pure." Liu Yan exclaimed inwardly, "How could this be? Did Xu Hui not want such a thing?" She looked at Ouyang Yiming and said, "This is truly incomprehensible." She sighed after a moment's thought and said, "These past few years...these past few years have really been unfair to you." Ouyang Yiming thought of Xu Hui, unsure whether not having had that kind of relationship with her was a comfort or a sorrow, but he certainly admired Xu Hui's purity.

Liu Yan thought to herself, "Ouyang Yiming wouldn't lie to me. While Xu Hui's purity is admirable, it's a shame she's lived such a short time; such women are rare. Ouyang Yiming has truly suffered a lot in this regard these past few years." Ouyang Yiming said, "Liu Yan, Jinling hasn't told you about the child. My family's intention is not to publicly announce that Ruhan is our child. This is because I'm the Party Secretary of the research institute, and we're afraid that having a child with you a few years earlier would affect me..."

He paused, then immediately continued, "Liu Yan, I suddenly realized that when you go to your new unit, it's not good for people to gossip about you being pregnant with my child before marriage, and having my child after marrying someone else. You're a female officer; you also need to be mindful of the impact. That would be bad for your reputation, and it would affect your future leadership. We can't let others talk about this." "I don't want people to talk about you either. Getting married and divorced is normal; it'll have far less impact than this being discussed so much." She spoke with some excitement, then paused and added, "It just feels a bit unfair to the child." Liu Yan thought for a moment and said, "The child is with us; whether it's public or not doesn't really matter. Wouldn't we love our child? Yes, you're right. Since we're living together, I don't need people gossiping about this behind my back, and I don't want this child to affect your career. This is the right way to handle it."

Ouyang Yiming blushed and said, "I was only thinking about how it would affect my career; I didn't even consider you. Now I'm thinking of you; I'm such an idiot." Liu Yan said, "Don't say that. Actually, I really didn't think about the impact on me. These things need to be considered; this is good for both of us."

Ouyang Yiming said, "Jinling was worried that telling you would affect your mood, but I thought you'd understand if I told you openly. Jinling also said that if we don't publicly acknowledge that it's our child, according to policy, we can have another one later. Actually, I don't really care if we don't have another one." Liu Yan said, "I do care. I want to have another one, regardless of gender. I didn't give birth to Ruhan openly for your family, and I must give birth to another child for your Ouyang family openly. I'm willing." Ouyang Yiming said

, "Let's wait a couple of years, until Ruhan is a bit older. Right now, I just want to enjoy the time we've lost." As he spoke, he stroked Liu Yan's breasts with both hands. Liu Yan tilted her head back and put her mouth towards him. After a while, Ouyang Yiming said, "I've thought about it." Liu Yan then moved her body to the side and lay down. Ouyang Yiming then pressed down on her… That night, the couple made love many times…

cried many times, and said many things they had kept hidden in their hearts for the past few years… The next morning, when they woke up, the sun was already high in the sky. Liu Yan blushed and said, “Mom and the others are about to tell us what happened.” Ouyang Yiming felt embarrassed and hurriedly said, “I’ll go arrange their dinner. I’ll pick them up later. You should go to sleep.” Liu Yan said, “How can I sleep? You wash your face and go quickly. I won’t go. I’ll wait for you at home.” Ouyang Yiming… After thinking for a moment, he hurriedly grabbed his glasses and put them on, glancing at his watch before saying, "The cafeteria has already opened." As he spoke, he reached for the phone and dialed his dormitory. He then spoke to Mao Yuqin, who answered, "Mom, you haven't eaten yet , have you?"

Mao Yuqin replied, "Not yet, we just got up a little while ago." Ouyang Yiming quickly said, "Okay, wait there a moment, I'll come pick you up and bring you here to eat." He hung up and said to Liu Yan, "There are food stalls right at the main gate, I'll bring them over and we can eat here together." Liu Yan nodded, blushing.

Ouyang Yiming chuckled twice and said, "I've never gotten up this late before." He dressed as he spoke, quickly washed his face, and drove to his workplace.

Ouyang Yiming picked up Mao Yuqin and the others; Liu Yan had already finished washing up. The family ate breakfast at a snack shop near the entrance of their residential complex. Back home, Mao Yuqin said, "If you have time these next few days, hurry up and buy some household necessities. The children and you can't eat out all the time; home is more hygienic." Liu Yan said, "We'll buy them in the next couple of days." Mao Yuqin said, "Also, hurry up and find a nanny. That way you can relax a bit and the children can be taken better care of. You're both young, and work is very important. You can't just keep thinking about taking care of them; women should have ambition too." Liu Yan blushed and nodded. Mao Yuqin took Liu Yan's hand and said, "Child, we can all see your relationship with Yiming. As your mother, I wish you happiness."

Liu Yan's heart instantly ached, tears welled up, and she cried out, "Thank you, Mom," before tears streamed down her face. With tears in her eyes, Mao Yuqin said, "Child, it really wasn't easy for you two to get together. I just hope you both cherish this, and that you two can have a good life together. That's our wish as parents. Well, your sister and I are both very busy with work, teaching classes, and we have to go back soon. You and Yiming should take some time to go home. Your grandfather is still there; he's the head of our family." Liu Yan nodded tearfully.

Mao Yuqin said, "Last night, I talked to Yiming about getting your marriage certificate. You're both government officials; living together like this isn't legal, it has a bad influence, and it's a mistake. Get it done as soon as possible." Ouyang Yiming said, "We'll get it done as soon as possible." Liu Yan nodded. Ouyang Mei took a step closer, glanced at Ouyang Yiming, and turned to Liu Yan, saying, "Sister Yanzi, brother, I wish you both a lifetime of happiness." Liu Yan thanked her and then hugged Ouyang Mei. After letting go, she looked at Mao Yuqin and Ouyang Mei and said, "Mom, sister, don't worry, I will definitely take good care of Yiming and the baby.

I will be grateful to Yiming and you for accepting me for the rest of my life." Mao Yuqin hurriedly said, "Child, please don't say such things again. You haven't had it easy these past years, and it's not like you did anything wrong. Alright, let's not be so formal. We can't help you much here, so hurry up and get what you need." After saying that, she hugged Ruhan, who was pregnant with Ouyang Yiming's baby, and said, "Ruhan, Grandma and Aunt are going back to work. In a few days, we'll go back to our hometown with your parents. Your great-grandfather, grandfather, and uncle miss you."

Ruhan nodded. Mao Yuqin kissed Ruhan on the cheek, and Ouyang Mei took her and hugged her, saying, "In a few days, when we go back to our hometown, Aunt will also have a holiday. Aunt will tell you stories then, okay?" Ruhan nodded in agreement.

That morning, Mao Yuqin took the car that brought her back to Panzhou. Ouyang Yiming sent another car to take Ouyang Mei back to Shanghai. That same morning, Ouyang Yiming had his assistant bring a blank letterhead stamped with the official seal, obtained a marriage certificate, and in the afternoon, he and Liu Yan went to the district civil affairs bureau to register their marriage. Holding the bright red marriage certificate, tears welled up in Liu Yan and Ouyang Yiming's eyes again. Sitting in the car, Liu Yan cried, "Yiming, today is the most important day of my life, the happiest day. I... I finally belong to you." Ouyang Yiming cried, "This is a joyous day for our family of three. Liu Yan, for the rest of my life, I will take good care of you and cherish you." Liu Yan then sobbed softly. Ruhan timidly called out to his mother. Liu Yan looked at Ruhan and smiled, saying, "Ruhan, Mom is okay. Mom and Dad are happy, very happy." Ruhan looked at Liu Yan and Ouyang Yiming with puzzled eyes; he still didn't understand why they would cry when they were happy.

Ouyang Yiming thought for a moment and said, "Let's go to the mall." Liu Yan asked, "What for?" Ouyang Yiming said, "To buy some things." Liu Yan didn't think much of it. Unexpectedly, when they arrived at the mall, Ouyang Yiming carried Ruhan straight to the jewelry counter. He stopped and said to Liu Yan, "Liu Yan, you can choose what's in here." Liu Yan pulled him aside a couple of steps and whispered, "I thought you were here to buy household things. I'm a soldier; I can't wear these things." Ouyang Yiming said, "Whether you wear them or not, I'll buy them for you. I should have bought them for you before we got married, but our situation is special. Now that we're married, I should buy them for you even more. You absolutely must." Liu Yan was touched and said, "Why are you doing this?" Ouyang Yiming said solemnly, "Listen to me, it's a must."

Liu Yan looked at him, knowing she couldn't change his mind, and looked at a few cheaper necklaces and rings. Ouyang Yiming looked for a while, but then chose the more expensive necklace and ring and bought them. Liu Yan was so moved she almost cried.

In the days that followed, Ouyang Yiming and Liu Yan discussed the wedding arrangements, planning to consult their families after returning to their hometown. They also agreed that the wedding would not take place until after the anniversary of Xu Hui's death. As for the various rumors that quickly spread throughout the research institute, Ouyang Yiming pretended not to know. Fortunately, no one asked him directly, so there was no need to explain. As Mao Yuqin spoke these words, she couldn't help but blame Liu Yan's mother. She thought to herself, "Now you regret it, now you want to apologize? Not only did you not consider Yiming's feelings, but did you even consider that Liu Yan is your own daughter? Just looking at Liu Yan's feelings for Yiming now, one can imagine how much pain she suffered back then. If you hadn't forced Liu Yan, she wouldn't have given in so easily. Now you've ruined your own daughter, married and divorced, and only now you regret it? Are you even a mother? Do you deserve to be a mother? A mother is supposed to care for her children, but how can you forcibly separate a loving couple? If Yiming wasn't good enough for your daughter, that would be one thing, but you broke them up for the sake of your family's status. How can your behavior be forgiven!"

But no matter how much Mao Yuqin thought or how angry she was, she knew she couldn't say anything to Liu Yan.

Liu Yan wanted to say a few more words about how she felt sorry for Ouyang Yiming, but after thinking about it, she decided to say it in front of Ouyang Yiming alone and stopped herself.

They ate dinner at a restaurant near the neighborhood that evening. Before ordering, Ouyang Mei let Liu Yan choose. Liu Yan said, "I'll just order sweet and sour fish." Ouyang Yiming felt a surge of warmth in his heart, knowing that Liu Yan had ordered this dish for him. He thought for a moment, but couldn't think of anything Liu Yan liked to eat. He secretly cursed himself for being a jerk; Liu Yan had remembered that he liked sweet and sour fish. Then he thought about how they hadn't eaten together very often, but he had once mentioned to Liu Yan in casual conversation that he liked sweet and sour fish. It was truly rare that Liu Yan had remembered so clearly after all these years, and a feeling of gratitude for Liu Yan's deep affection for him welled up within him. Mao Yuqin looked at Liu Yan and asked, "You also like sweet and sour fish? Xiaoming loves it the most." Liu Yan blushed and said, "Ruhan and I both like it." Ouyang Mei laughed and said, "It's true that birds of a feather flock together. The three of you all like it, that's what makes a family! Do you know how to make it?"

Liu Yan said, "I do, I'm pretty good at it." Ouyang Mei said, "My brother is in for a treat."

While eating, Mao Yuqin carefully picked out the fish bones for Ruhan and said to Liu Yan, "You have to be careful when children eat fish."

Love and Desire (187)

Chapter 185

On the fifth day after Liu Yan arrived in Jinling, Ouyang Yiming led his delegation to the German company Lemeet for inspection and signed a contract on behalf of the research institute to purchase five plastic steel profile production lines and related technology import contracts; and two plastic steel door and window manufacturing equipment and related technology contracts.

On the evening of July 4th, Ouyang Yiming returned to Jinling. Knocking on the door, Liu Yan opened it with a smile and asked, "Why didn't you call to let me know you were coming?" Ouyang Yiming smiled as he watched Liu Yan close the door, put down his suitcase, and said, "I missed you so much!" He then hugged Liu Yan and kissed her. Liu Yan was startled, blushed, and quickly pushed him away, smiling shyly and whispering, "There's someone home." Ouyang Yiming looked up and saw Ru Han standing timidly a few steps behind Liu Yan. He hurriedly went over, picked him up, and asked, "Ru Han, did you miss your dad?" Ru Han smiled and said, "Yes, I missed my dad." Just then, a blushing girl of about eighteen or nineteen years old came out of a room. Ouyang Yiming was startled again. Liu Yan glanced at Ouyang Yiming and said, "This is Yunyun, whom we hired to take care of Ru Han." Ouyang Yiming suddenly realized that Liu Yan's hasty push wasn't because of Ru Han, but because this girl was home. He figured that the girl had probably seen him hugging and kissing Liu Yan when he came in, which was why he blushed. Looking at the girl, Liu Yan said, "Hello, I'll be troubling you from now on." The girl said shyly, "It's no trouble at all."

Liu Yan said to the girl, "This is Ru Han's father, you can just call him Brother Ouyang." The girl shyly called out "Brother Ouyang," took two steps over, and picked up Ouyang Yiming's suitcase.

Liu Yan told her to take it to their bedroom.

Ouyang Yiming sat down on the sofa with Ru Han in his arms. Liu Yan poured a glass of water and placed it on the coffee table in front of him, asking, "Have you eaten yet?" Ouyang Yiming said, "Not yet. We landed in Shanghai, and they went directly to Panzhou. Our connections in Shanghai sent a car to bring me here." Liu Yan said, "I'll go make you something." Turning to the nanny, she said, "Yunyun, quickly go outside and buy some groceries so your Brother Ouyang can have a few drinks first." As she spoke, she handed her the money and told her what groceries to buy. The nanny agreed and went out. Liu Yan turned back to Ouyang Yiming and said,

"Ru Han, come down quickly, let your father wash his face." Ru Han agreed. Ouyang Yiming said, "Wait a minute, wait a bit before washing." He then picked up Ruhan and stood up, saying, "Ruhan, look what Daddy brought you." He turned to Liu Yan and asked, "Where's my suitcase?" Liu Yan said, "It's in our room. Look at you, just wash your face first." Ouyang Yiming chuckled twice and carried Ruhan into the bedroom.

After putting down Ruhan, Liu Yan opened her suitcase, took out several toys, and placed them on the bed, saying, "Dad bought these for you. Do you like them?" Ruhan said, "Yes." Liu Yan came in at this moment and saw the toys on the bed, saying, "Why did you bring him so many? We already have so many at home." Ouyang Yiming said, "These are all well-known German brands. Look at this, a Ditch car model; this is an Aisong wooden educational toy; this is a Big Company plastic building block toy; this is Xianbao..." Liu Yan picked them up and looked at them, saying, "Foreign toys are so exquisite." Turning to Ouyang Yiming, she asked, "How much did these cost?" Ouyang Yiming said, "Why do I care how much they cost for my son?" Liu Yan laughed and said, "You'll spoil him too." Ouyang Yiming chuckled. Liu Yan

then asked Ruhan, "Did you thank Dad?" Ruhan looked up at Ouyang Yiming and said, "Thank you, Dad." After saying that, he continued looking at the toys. Ouyang Yiming said to Liu Yan, "I also brought you something." Liu Yan looked at him.

Ouyang Yiming bent down and took an exquisite box from his suitcase, saying, "Couple's watches, Glashütte Original, an old German brand, they started producing watches in the 1940s."

He handed it to Liu Yan. Liu Yan looked at it and asked, "How much does this cost?" Ouyang Yiming replied, "Not very expensive, about five thousand yuan." Liu Yan glanced at him curiously and said, "Why did you buy such an expensive watch?" Ouyang Yiming chuckled and said, "Couple's watches, they're worn together, so when we wear them, our hearts are together too. Looking at the watches will remind us of each other." Liu Yan's heart stirred; she thought to herself, "It's really touching how thoughtful Ouyang Yiming is." Upon opening the box, two exquisite watches, one large and one small, caught her eye. She exclaimed, "They're really beautiful! I almost don't want to wear them!" Ouyang Yiming said, "We bought them to wear, what's the point of keeping them? From today onwards, we'll both wear them." He took the women's watch and said, "Here, let me put it on you."

Liu Yan said, "I'll cook for you tonight." At this point, Ru Han clamored to see them. Liu Yan said, "These belong to Mom and Dad, you can't play with them." Ouyang Yiming said, "Let him see them." Liu Yan scolded, "You spoil him so much." Turning to Ru Han, she said, "He can only look, he can't play with them." Ru Han agreed. He looked at them but wasn't interested, so he went back to playing with his toys. Liu Yan said, "I'll go cook for you. Hey, have you noticed the new things we've got?" Ouyang Yiming said, "Really? I hadn't noticed. I just wanted to see you and our son as soon as I got home." Liu Yan giggled and said, "We've got some little things these past few days. I've already looked at the cupboards, but I can't make the decision by myself. Let's go buy them together in a couple of days when you're free."

Ouyang Yiming said, "Okay, I'll go check in the living room." He bent down to pick up Ruhan. Ruhan went to get his toys, but even with both hands, he couldn't carry them all. Ouyang Yiming and Liu Yan laughed. Liu Yan said, "Nobody wants yours. You and Daddy go out first, I'll get them for you." Ruhan said, "Take them to Auntie's room." Liu Yan said, "Okay." Ruhan smiled brightly as Ouyang Yiming held him and let him play with the toys.

As they were leaving, Ouyang Yiming asked Ruhan, "What did Mom buy?" Ruhan replied, "Mom bought a lot of flowers." Ouyang Yiming then noticed a flower stand in the corner, with a hanging plant on it, its branches cascading down to the middle of the stand, adding a touch of greenery to the room. Ruhan said, "There are many more on the balcony." Ouyang Yiming said, "Really?" Turning his head, he saw several paintings hanging on the wall. Although the pictures of beautiful women were somewhat mediocre, they still added a homely atmosphere compared to the previously bare walls. Entering the balcony, he indeed saw several potted herbaceous and woody plants, two of which were in full bloom. A warm feeling welled up in his heart; this felt like a home, truly a home…

Back on the sofa in the living room, Ruhan struggled to get up, his mind naturally on the toys. Looking at them, Ouyang Yiming felt a surge of sweet fatherly joy. Just then, the nanny entered the room. Ruhan ran over, calling out "Auntie," waving the toys in her hand and saying, "Daddy bought these for me, and I have so many more!" The nanny said, "Really?" Ruhan then took her hand and said, "Come here, come see the toys Daddy bought for me." The nanny smiled and said, "Shall I put down the groceries I bought for your dad? He hasn't eaten yet." Ouyang Yiming went over and took them, saying, "You stay with Ruhan." The nanny said, "I'll go cook for you." Ouyang Yiming said, "No need, your Sister Liu is cooking." Ruhan then took the nanny's hand and skipped into the room.

Ouyang Yiming carried the groceries the nanny bought into the kitchen and saw Liu Yan cutting meat, so he asked, "Why are you still cutting meat?" Liu Yan said, "I'm making you meat noodles." Ouyang Yiming put down the groceries and said:

"Don't bother, I'll just eat something simple," Liu Yan said. "It's already prepared, don't worry about it." Ouyang Yiming smiled and said, "I bought so much food, I won't eat much." As he spoke, he hugged Liu Yan from behind, resting his chin on her shoulder, and said, "I'm not hungry, I just missed you." Liu Yan turned her head and looked up at him, saying, "Me too." Then she said, "Let go quickly, there are people at home."

Ouyang Yiming said, "They're in the room, come and give me a kiss." Liu Yan then leaned over and kissed Ouyang Yiming on the cheek, saying, "Go wash your face quickly, I'll prepare the food, it'll be ready soon." Ouyang Yiming leaned over and kissed Liu Yan on the cheek, then let go and went to the bathroom.

When he came out, Liu Yan had already plated the groceries and put them on the dining table. Seeing Ouyang Yiming come over, she asked, "What do you want to drink?"

Ouyang Yiming said, "Anything is fine." Liu Yan said, "It's so hot, how about some beer?" Ouyang Yiming agreed. Liu Yan then took two cans of Tsingtao beer from the refrigerator. She poured a full glass and placed it in front of Ouyang Yiming, then sat down on the stool next to him. Ouyang Yiming looked at her and said, "Have a drink with me." Liu Yan said, "I've already eaten, you should eat quickly." Ouyang Yiming picked up the glass and said, "Then just have a sip, keep me company." Liu Yan smiled and said, "Okay, okay, I'll have a sip." She took the glass and drank a sip. She handed it to Ouyang Yiming, saying, "You drink first, I'll make you some noodles later." Ouyang Yiming nodded. At this moment, Liu Yan wanted to say a few things to Ouyang Yiming, but then thought better of it and stopped herself. So she said, "I bought some flowers these past few days since I had nothing much to do. I don't know if you like them."

Ouyang Yiming said, "I like them. This feels more like a home; it's very cozy. Don't buy any paintings. I have some calligraphy and paintings by well-known calligraphers and painters from Panzhou. I'll frame them and hang them in the living room when I have time." He paused and then said, "What kind of flowers do you like? I'll have the gardener at my workplace get some for you. It's so hot; don't go out." Liu Yan said, "I forgot you have a gardener at your workplace. I was just hoping to get some flowers so the air in the house would be fresher. I haven't done much for your study yet. I'm afraid I won't do a good job and you won't like it, so I wanted to wait until you come over."

Ouyang Yiming said, "I'll do it. There's no rush." He paused and asked: "Where is this nanny from? Did your aunt find her?" Liu Yan said, "My cousin found her. Her name is Zhou Yunyun. She's from a rural area in Ma'anshan. She used to work as a nanny for one of my cousin's colleagues. A while ago, that colleague's younger sister graduated from middle school. Her grades weren't good, and she felt she wasn't cut out for school, so she came to help take care of her brother's child. That's how my cousin introduced Yunyun to our family. She came just two days after you went to Germany. I've seen her these past few days and she seems quite good. She's a very honest and hardworking girl, and she's good at taking care of children and cooking. She has a relative who works in the Political Department, and she was introduced to that family by that relative. We know her well." Ouyang Yiming nodded.

After chatting for a while, Ouyang Yiming also finished two cans of beer. Liu Yan asked if she wanted more, and Ouyang Yiming smiled mysteriously and said, "No, I have work tonight." Liu Yan asked suspiciously, "What kind of work do you have tonight since you just got home?" Ouyang Yiming laughed, leaned closer, and whispered, "Our work." Liu Yan instantly understood, laughed, and playfully hit him, saying, "I really thought you had something else to do." Ouyang Yiming laughed. Liu Yan smiled and stood up, saying, "I'll make you some noodles."

After dinner, they talked about their trip to Germany in the living room, watched TV, and played with Ruhan. After a while, Ruhan said she wanted to sleep. The nanny took Ruhan to bathe and return to her room. Ouyang Yiming and Liu Yan took showers one after the other and returned to their bedroom. Ouyang Yiming had already taken out the pair of couple watches and put one on. Seeing Liu Yan enter, he pulled her into his arms and sat her on his lap, saying, "Come on, try this on." Liu Yan smiled, wiped her left wrist clean, and extended it. Ouyang Yiming helped her put it on, then held out his own left wrist, looking at it against his, and said, "People are a pair, and watches are a pair too. From today onwards, neither of us can take them off." Liu Yan laughed and said, "Not even when I shower!" Ouyang Yiming said, "This watch is waterproof and shockproof, so you don't have to take it off."

Liu Yan laughed again and said, "Okay, I'll wear it all the time." Looking at the watch on her wrist, she added, "It's quite expensive, though." Ouyang Yiming said, "Don't worry about whether it's expensive or not." . "As he spoke, he stretched out his hand to pull Liu Yan's head, stretched out his mouth to kiss her, and said, "I miss you so much." Liu Yan smiled red-faced and said, "I think so too." Ouyang Yiming picked her up and put her on the bed. He hurriedly took off Liu Yan's clothes and pressed her on her... After resting for a while, the two of them sat on the bedside. Liu Yan said, "My work will be finalized in the near future. I am basically determined to work in the Cultural Department of the Political Department of the military region. It has not been finalized yet. The cross-military transfer will take some time." Ouyang Yiming asked: "Really?" Who told you? "Liu Yan said: "Mom called a few days ago. Ouyang Yiming said "Oh". Liu Yan said, "My aunt and my cousin also came to our house the day before yesterday." Ouyang Yiming was shocked again and asked, "Really?" Liu Yan glanced at him and said, "Auntie said that we should go to her home when we have time." "

The reason Liu Yan didn't tell Ouyang Yiming this while eating was because she was afraid of affecting Ouyang Yiming's mood. She knew in her heart that the harm her family had done to Ouyang Yiming would still leave scars in his heart.

Ouyang Yiming blushed upon hearing this. Although he didn't want to associate with Liu Yan's family of high-ranking officials, he had thought about it many times. Since he was married to Liu Yan, regardless of his feelings, he would have to interact with and accept her family. So he said, "You've been very busy since you arrived, and then you went to Germany. Actually, since we live so close, saying you don't have time isn't an excuse. We should have visited your aunt's family earlier. Now that your aunt has come to our house first, I really feel bad."

Liu Yan said, "I've been to your aunt's house several times these past few days, and I told them you really don't have time right now. Don't worry, they won't blame you."

Liu Yan knew Ouyang Yiming's true feelings, but she didn't want to say it outright. After all, it was her family who had let Ouyang Yiming down. Although her aunt had nothing to do with this, she knew Ouyang Yiming didn't want to see them. Ouyang Yiming said, "Okay, let's buy some things in a couple of days and take Ruhan with us." He was still reluctant as he spoke, but he knew he couldn't refuse. After all, he was a man, and he couldn't let people think that a man who had become a leader in the research institute was petty because of past events. In fact, it shouldn't be like that.

Liu Yan was naturally happy to hear Ouyang Yiming's words. She also wanted her family to recognize her husband as excellent and generous. So she said, "Then, I'll buy some things tomorrow and go tomorrow night." Ouyang Yiming agreed, saying, "I have to go to work tomorrow. When you buy things, you can't let your aunt think we're stingy. Buy something a little more expensive, since it's my first time visiting." Liu Yan understood that Ouyang Yiming didn't want to lose face in front of her family, so she said, "Okay, I know what to buy."

The next evening, the three of them went to Liu Yan's aunt's house. Ouyang Yiming, having seen many important occasions, didn't feel particularly reserved meeting Liu Yan's aunt and uncle, who were high-ranking officials. He spoke fluently and behaved with propriety. After chatting for a while, everyone in Liu Yan's aunt's family was quite satisfied with Ouyang Yiming, but no one mentioned Liu Yan's marriage to Zhang Lei or her mother's interference in their union. They all knew that bringing up these things now would make the atmosphere awkward, but they did offer many words of blessing for their happiness and urging Liu Yan to cherish their marriage. When saying goodbye, Liu Yan's aunt said to Ouyang Yiming, "We live so close by, so come home whenever you have time. Now that you and Liu Yan are married, you're both like our children. Next time you come, don't just come over after dinner; have a few drinks with your uncle too." Ouyang Yiming smiled and agreed.

The next morning, shortly after Ouyang Yiming arrived at work, Tang, the former deputy mayor of Panzhou City who had become the deputy director of the Provincial Forestry Department, came to his office. As soon as Deputy Director Tang entered, Ouyang Yiming hurriedly stood up and walked over, saying, "Director Tang, I was just saying I'd like to come to your office to report sometime. You were so reluctant to go to Germany this time." Deputy Director Tang sat down, took the tea Ouyang Yiming offered, and said, "Since I've left the research institute, and the affairs I manage in the province don't align with yours, there's no reason for me to go with you. But I'm still worried about the research institute.

Did the trip go smoothly?" Ouyang Yiming then recounted the details of his trip to Germany to Deputy Director Tang.

After listening, Deputy Director Tang said that the project was very promising, and he firmly believed it would have great development and a good market. Then he said, "Yiming, I'm here today not only for the research institute, but also for a personal matter." He paused, staring at Ouyang Yiming, and said, "It's about you." Ouyang Yiming's heart tightened, and after a moment, he blushed and asked, "Is it about me and Liu Yan?" Deputy Director Tang said, "I don't know her name, but it's about you and a female soldier." Ouyang Yiming said, "Director Tang, I didn't expect this to reach your ears so quickly. I was just looking for an opportunity to tell you." Deputy Director Tang asked, "I heard she's a soldier with a child? Are you living together?" Ouyang Yiming blushed and said, "Yes, she has a child, and we live together. But we've already registered our marriage." Deputy Director Tang was quite surprised and asked, "Registered your marriage?" Ouyang Yiming said:

“Yes, I received her before going to Germany.” Vice Mayor Tang stared intently at Ouyang Yiming and asked, “What’s this female soldier’s background? How did you end up marrying a married woman with a child? Tell me what happened.”

Ouyang Yiming said, “No one has asked me about this yet, but I know people will talk about it behind my back. Director Tang, I won’t hide it from you, Liu Yan was my first love, before Xu Hui.” He then recounted in detail his relationship with Liu Yan, and how Liu Yan’s parents separated them because of their class distinctions. Of course, he didn’t mention that Ru Han was Liu Yan’s child whom she had secretly conceived earlier. If before he was concerned about his own reputation, now he prioritized Liu Yan’s. He didn’t want anyone to have any negative feelings towards Liu Yan.

After listening, Deputy Director Tang said, "I always thought Xu Hui was your first, but I didn't expect you had such a passionate relationship before her." Ouyang Yiming blushed and said, "Very few people know about my relationship with Liu Yan, but Xu Hui does." Deputy Director Tang said, "Since you've already registered your marriage, I believe you have genuine feelings for each other. Otherwise, you, Ouyang Yiming, wouldn't have registered so quickly. This matter has already reached the ears of the Panzhou Municipal Party Committee. Someone called me yesterday afternoon to tell me about it. I thought to myself, you, Ouyang Yiming, wouldn't be so confused as to live with a woman without any formalities. I said at the time that there must be a reason. Now that you've registered your marriage..." " The marriage certificate makes it legal.

Okay, I'll explain to them." Ouyang Yiming said, "Actually, not many people have asked me about this. If someone did, I would have explained." Deputy Director Tang said, "I was afraid you'd make a mistake.

Some leaders in Panzhou City think I'm the one who helped you get promoted, so they spoke to me first. Once you have the marriage certificate, you're a legally married couple. I wish you happiness. Have you considered when to hold the wedding?" Ouyang Yiming said, "It's not decided yet. Liu Yan and I have discussed it, and the wedding will be very simple. It will be after Xu Hui's anniversary." Deputy Director Tang nodded and said, "Okay, I'll be your witness then. Let's get together sometime." Ouyang Yiming thanked him. After talking for a while, Deputy Director Tang went back.

That evening, Ouyang Yiming told Liu Yan that July 7th was Ouyang Dongdong's big exam day and he wanted to go home during those days. Liu Yan agreed. So Ouyang Yiming called home, and Mao Yuqin answered the phone. Ouyang Yiming inquired about Ouyang Dongdong's condition before the exam. Mao Yuqin said, "Dongdong is doing very well and is very stable. He's still not in a rush and goes to the nearby No. 9 Middle School to play basketball every day." Ouyang Yiming said, "The exam is the day after tomorrow. How can he participate in such strenuous exercise?"

Mao Yuqin said, "I'm very worried, but I can't control him. How about I call him over, and you can talk to him?" Ouyang Yiming agreed. Mao Yuqin called Ouyang Dongdong over. Ouyang Yiming said, "Dongdong, it's not that I'm worried you won't study well or do well on the exam these next few days; I have absolute confidence in you. Even if you don't want to rest, we won't agree. But now that you have your exams coming up, I still don't approve of strenuous exercise like basketball. What if you fall and hurt yourself? Wouldn't that interfere with your exams? I suggest that if you want to exercise these next few days, you play table tennis or badminton."

Ouyang Dongdong said, "It's okay, I'm not interested in those sports. Hey, brother, when are you coming back? I want to see my little nephew." Ouyang Yiming said, "I was planning to go back in the next couple of days. I definitely have to come and cheer you on for your exams. Here's what I'll do: I'll arrange my work tomorrow. If I can't get home by tomorrow, I'll be home the day after tomorrow." Ouyang Dongdong said, "As long as I see my big nephew, getting into Peking University or Tsinghua University won't be a problem." Ouyang Yiming chuckled and said, "In that case, I'll definitely take him with me."

Mao Yuqin took the phone and spoke a few words to Ouyang Yiming before letting Liu Yan take the call. Liu Yan took the receiver and called out, "Mom." Mao Yuqin said, "Liu Yan, your grandfather misses you and the child."

Liu Yan said, "Mom, Yiming and I discussed taking the child back tomorrow." After a few words, Mao Yuqin asked if Ruhan was there. Liu Yan said, "Yes." Then she called Ruhan over and said, "Your grandma wants to talk to you."

Ruhan asked, "Which grandma?" Liu Yan said, "Your grandma on this side." As she spoke, she put the phone to Ruhan's ear, and Ruhan timidly called out "Grandma." Mao Yuqin responded with "Yes, yes" twice and said, "Ruhan, do you miss your grandma?" Ruhan said, "I miss grandma." Mao Yuqin asked, "How about you come home with your parents these next few days?" Ruhan said,

"Yes." Then Ouyang Dongdong took the phone and told Ruhan that he was his uncle. Ruhan was a little flustered and didn't know what to say. Ouyang Yiming took the phone and said, "Ruhan hasn't even met you yet, how can he call you that?" He then said a few more words to Mao Yuqin and hung up. Liu Yan then called her aunt's house again, saying she was going back to Panzhou in the next couple of days and asked her aunt to help her if she needed to register after completing the formalities. Liu Yan's aunt said no problem.

The next morning, Liu Yan went to the market and bought some things. After lunch, Ouyang Yiming took Liu Yan and Ru Han back to Panzhou. Ru Han fell asleep not long after they set off.

Liu Yan said, "Yiming, this is my first time going home, and I'm really a little nervous."

Ouyang Yiming turned to look at her and smiled, saying, "People say that an ugly daughter-in-law is afraid to meet her in-laws. My wife is as beautiful as a flower, what is there to be afraid of? Besides, although my beautiful daughter-in-law hasn't met her father-in-law, she has met her mother-in-law." Liu Yan smiled slightly and said, "There's something I still need to say. When we get to Panzhou, I think you and Ru Han could do a paternity test." Ouyang Yiming frowned upon hearing this, turned to look at her, and remained silent. Liu Yan said, "Listen to me, I won't feel at ease without this paternity test. It's not just for you, but also for your family. We need to give your elders an explanation. I don't want them to have any lingering doubts; that wouldn't be fair to Ru Han."

Ouyang Yiming said, "Liu Yan, you saw how Mom and Mei Zi treated Ru Han last time they came..." Liu Yan interrupted, "I know, but I won't feel at ease without it. After all, there's no evidence. I just want some proof to put my mind at ease." Ouyang Yiming thought for a moment and said, "I feel it's unnecessary." Liu Yan said, "This is also for Ru Han's sake. I just want your family to be able to completely accept Ru Han, without any doubts."

Ouyang Yiming thought to himself ... "Originally, I had completely accepted Ruhan in my heart, believing that Ruhan was my son, without any doubt. The more Liu Yan insisted that Ruhan and I do a paternity test, the more it proved that Liu Yan was certain that Ruhan was my son. But whether my family would have doubts, and whether they could completely accept that Ruhan was the Ouyang family's child, was uncertain. Liu Yan wanted the Ouyang family to completely believe that Ruhan was definitely their child, and didn't want Ruhan to suffer any injustice. It seems that she only felt at ease after doing this paternity test. But, wouldn't such a test have errors?

What if there are any mistakes in the test? Wouldn't that backfire?" Feeling troubled by these thoughts, she said, "Let's talk about it when we get home." They arrived in Panzhou around 5 PM. Ouyang Yiming parked the car at the "Xiucai Lane Hotel." Liu Yan carried Ruhan, and Ouyang Yiming carried some things as they walked into Xiucai Lane. Immediately, neighbors greeted Ouyang Yiming and then looked at Liu Yan and her son with curious eyes. As Yu walked forward, some people greeted Ouyang Yiming, but no one asked him who Liu Yan and her son were. Ouyang Yiming was aware of the suspicious looks and thoughts on people's faces. At first, he was a little nervous and uneasy, but gradually he calmed down and thought to himself, "Think what you want. I'll have to face it eventually."

Thinking this way, he felt much more at ease. Liu Yan, however, seemed extremely uncomfortable. She glanced at Ouyang Yiming and whispered, "Does everyone in this alley know you?" Ouyang Yiming replied, "I grew up here; they're all neighbors." Seeing Liu Yan's expression, he understood her concerns. He stopped and said, "Come on, let me hold the child. You carry the things." Liu Yan understood Ouyang Yiming's thoughts and was instantly moved. Her eyes reddened, and she said, "No, no..." Ouyang Yiming said, "Listen to me." He handed the things to Liu Yan and took the child in his arms.

As they walked forward, Ouyang Yiming smiled and greeted everyone, occasionally saying to Ru Han, "We'll be home soon, soon..." Under Ouyang Yiming's influence, Liu Yan's emotions gradually calmed down. Although she didn't greet anyone, she was able to look people in the eye.

Love and Desire (188)

Chapter 186

The gate of the Ouyang family's old house was open, and a tea table was set up in the shade of the lush pomegranate tree in front of the west wing. The whole family sat around the tea table, drinking tea and talking.

When Ouyang Yiming appeared at the gate with Liu Yan and the child, everyone stood up and went to greet them. Ouyang Mei ran ahead and sweetly called out to Liu Yan, "Sister Yanzi."

Liu Yan responded. Ouyang Mei looked at Ru Han and called out, "Ru Han, did you miss your aunt?" Ru Han smiled and nodded. Ouyang Mei giggled and reached out to hug Ru Han.

Mao Yuqin and the others then came forward. The old man, Ouyang Anping, and Ouyang Dongdong had smiles on their faces and their eyes looked back and forth between Liu Yan and Ru Han. Ouyang Yiming introduced the old man and Ouyang Anping to Liu Yan. Liu Yan blushed and called out "Grandpa" and "Dad". Before anyone could introduce her, Ouyang Dongdong called out, "Sister!" Liu Yan looked at Ouyang Dongdong and asked with a smile,

"This must be Dongdong, right?" Ouyang Dongdong blushed and nodded, saying, "Yes," and hurriedly took the things from Liu Yan's hands. Mao Yuqin smiled and said to Liu Yan, "Come and sit down quickly, you must be tired from the journey." As she spoke, she took Liu Yan's hand and walked into the courtyard, her eyes fixed on Ruhan, whom Ouyang Mei was holding, and asked, "Ruhan, did you miss Grandma?" Ruhan nodded. All eyes turned to Ruhan's face. Mao Yuqin smiled and said, "Your great-grandfather missed you the most." The old man smiled, his eyes narrowing into slits. Ouyang Mei looked at the old man, then turned back and said, "Ruhan, let great-grandfather hold you." Ruhan didn't say anything. Ouyang Mei handed Ruhan to the old man. The old man reached out and hugged him, looking at Ruhan and chuckling happily. Mao Yuqin said, "Dad, I said this child looks just like Yiming when he was little, don't you think?" The old man looked and nodded a few times, saying, "Yes, yes, just like Yiming when he was little." Everyone laughed. Liu Yan felt particularly comforted at that moment, but she still couldn't suppress the turmoil in her heart.

At this moment, Ouyang Yiming turned his head and glanced at the west wing. His heart suddenly tightened, and he hurriedly turned his head away, thinking to himself, "Xu Hui, Liu Yan and the child have come to the house. I think you already know in heaven. You won't blame me, you won't blame me, right..." As he spoke to himself, he felt flustered.

Everyone sat down around the square table under the pomegranate tree. The old man held Ruhan and looked at him with a particularly happy smile on his face. Mao Yuqin looked at Liu Yan and asked, "Are you tired?" Liu Yan replied, "No, I'm not." Mao Yuqin said, "Take a break, have some tea first." After a pause, she immediately added, "Why don't you go wash your faces first, then come back and eat watermelon?" Ouyang Yiming then took Liu Yan to the washroom.

While washing her face, Liu Yan said to Ouyang Yiming, "I don't know why, but even after seeing Dad and Grandpa, I still feel uneasy, a little flustered." Ouyang Yiming said, "Maybe it's because it's the first time meeting them and you're a little reserved." Liu Yan thought for a moment and said, "It doesn't seem like that. It seems like... I'm just worried that they don't truly acknowledge Ru Han." Ouyang Yiming frowned and said sarcastically, "You, didn't you see how happy Grandpa and Dad were to see the child? Don't think so much." After saying that, he thought that Liu Yan was taking this matter too seriously. It seemed that without a paternity test with Ru Han, Liu Yan would forever be burdened by this worry.

Liu Yan hummed in agreement and then remained silent. For some reason, ever since Liu Yan entered the Ouyang family's old house and saw the old man, she felt uneasy and anxious, as if she owed this family something. This feeling wasn't as strong when she saw Mao Yuqin and Ouyang Mei in Jinling. Now, however, she felt increasingly uneasy.

Back at the table, the watermelon was already laid out. The two sat down, and Mao Yuqin said, "I put it in the refrigerator to chill at noon." Liu Yan said, "Thank you, Mom." The old man looked at Ruhan and said, "Sweetie, eat watermelon, eat watermelon." He took a slice and handed it to Ruhan. Liu Yan looked at Ruhan and said, "Ruhan, come down and eat, don't get it on Great-Grandpa." Ruhan agreed and came down.

Ouyang Mei took a slice of watermelon and handed it to Liu Yan.

After finishing the watermelon, Ouyang Dongdong washed his hands with a basin of water. Everyone sat down, and Mao Yuqin sat Ruhan on her lap, looking at him and asking, "Do you like our home?" Ruhan nodded and said, "Yes." He wriggled down, ran to a tree, looked up, and exclaimed, "What's up there?" Ouyang Dongdong got up and went over, saying, "That's a pomegranate. Come here, let Uncle hold you and let you see." He picked Ruhan up, picked one, and handed it to him, saying, "You can only play with it, not eat it." Ruhan asked, "Why?" Ouyang Dongdong said, "It's not ripe yet, it won't taste good." Ruhan nodded, seemingly understanding.

Ouyang Yiming called out to Ouyang Dongdong, saying, "Come here, let me ask you something." Ouyang Dongdong said, "It's about the exam again." Ouyang Yiming laughed and said, "The exam is tomorrow, how's your preparation?" Ouyang Dongdong said, "It's fine." He turned to Ruhan and said, "Shall we go see the birds?" Ruhan said, "Okay." Ouyang Dongdong said, "Let's go." He put his hands on his hips and lifted Ruhan up, saying, "Come on, ride on Uncle's shoulders." Ruhan rode on Ouyang Dongdong's shoulders and giggled. Mao Yuqin called out "Dongdong," hurriedly stood up, took a few quick steps over and picked up Ruhan, raised her hand and slapped Ouyang Dongdong, saying, "You're so clumsy, you're so tall..."

Ouyang Dongdong chuckled and said, "It's okay, I can hold on tight." Mao Yuqin said, "That's still not good, hold on properly." Ouyang Dongdong then took Ruhan and hugged her, saying, "Look how scared your grandma is." He walked away as he spoke.

Mao Yuqin turned and sat down, looking at Liu Yan who was smiling, and said, "Dongdong is still just a child." Liu Yan said, "Dongdong is quite tall." Mao Yuqin said, "About the same height as Yiming, 1.77 meters." Liu Yan said, "I heard from Yiming that Dongdong's grades are very good." Mao Yuqin said, "That's right. To be honest, I'm very proud of my three children; their academic performance has always been good. Dongdong will have no problem getting into a top university."

Ouyang Mei said, "She only wants to go to Tsinghua or Peking University." Liu Yan smiled, thinking to herself, "Ruhan is a descendant of the Ouyang family; when Ruhan grows up, she will definitely be like them, and will surely become a very learned person." Mao Yuqin looked at Liu Yan and asked, "Hasn't she started working yet?" Liu Yan said, "Not yet, the paperwork isn't finished, but it'll be soon." Mao Yuqin nodded and asked, "Have you found a nanny?" Liu Yan said, "Yes, I have, it's going well." "That's good," Mao Yuqin said. "That's good, you'll have an easier time from now on.

Yiming can't really help much with the family." Liu Yan turned to look at Ouyang Yiming and said, "There's not much going on at home, he doesn't need to worry about anything." She looked up at the old man and said, "Grandpa's health is quite good." The old man laughed heartily and said, "My health is good, my appetite is even bigger than Xiaoming's." Liu Yan said, "Old people should exercise more." The old man said, "I can't sit still all day, I walk these birds every day, it makes me feel good." Liu Yan said, "A good mood is the most important thing. Grandpa, when you have time, you should go and stay in Jinling for a while." The old man said, "

Okay, I'll go when the weather is cooler." After chatting for a while, Liu Yan said, "This old house is quite big, I've only heard Yiming mention it before." Ouyang Mei said, "Sister, let me show you around." As she spoke, she stood up, greeted everyone, and got up to follow Ouyang Mei.

Mao Yuqin watched Liu Yan leave, then turned to the old man and asked, "Dad, do you think Xiaoming's wife is pretty good?" The old man said, "She's good, not bad." Ouyang Anping looked at Ouyang Yiming and said, "As long as you two are happy, we old folks will be content." Mao Yuqin said, "Yes, now when we look at the child and then at Liu Yan, we feel heartache for her."

Ouyang Yiming said, "Grandpa, Liu Yan is a very good person. You'll get to know her better eventually." The old man said, "Xiaoming, don't underestimate your grandpa just because he's old. He's still very perceptive. Just because she gave us a son, we can't do anything against our conscience. She's a great contributor to our family." Mao Yuqin said, "That's one aspect, but the key is the relationship between the two children. Okay, as long as you two are happy, we'd be more than happy! Yiming, you two can have another one. Your grandpa is hoping you two can give the Ouyang family another son

." Ouyang Yiming smiled and said, "Let's think about it in a couple of years. Ruhan is still young. We want to wait until Ruhan is a little older." Mao Yuqin said, "Of course, this is something you two should decide."

Actually, everyone in the Ouyang family was quite satisfied with Liu Yan's appearance and temperament. But the elders of the Ouyang family still had some regrets. In their eyes, Ouyang Yiming was already a very outstanding child, and a child like him should find a woman without any flaws to be his wife. Although Liu Yan gave birth to a descendant of the Ouyang family, she still married another man. However, everyone was aware of Ouyang Yiming's feelings for Liu Yan; they now lived together and had obtained their marriage certificate, making them husband and wife in name only. Therefore, despite their regrets, no one dared to say anything to Ouyang Yiming. But if the Ouyang family compared Liu Yan to Xu Hui, their feelings leaned more towards Xu Hui.
That evening, the family set up an eight-immortal table in the courtyard, prepared a feast, and sat together. During the meal, Liu Yan picked up her beer glass, stood up, and said, "Grandpa, Dad, Mom, Sister, Brother, this visit marks my official entry into the Ouyang family. To be honest, I feel a little uneasy about entering this family, after all, I did something wrong to the Ouyang family.

But I really didn't want to get married back then, I really had no choice. My feelings for Yiming are incomparable, I know that myself. Please forgive Liu Yan, forgive the mistakes my family made. My mother is also very regretful now, but there's no way to undo it. I thank Yiming for not disliking me, and I thank everyone in this family for accepting me..." Ouyang Yiming pulled Liu Yan aside. The old man said, "Child, please don't say such things. You haven't done anything to wrong the Ouyang family. As long as you're doing well, we're happy!

" Mao Yuqin said, "Liu Yan, don't say or think like that anymore. Once you've entered the Ouyang family, you're part of the Ouyang family. We know your relationship with Yiming best. Okay, this is the last time you'll say such things. Don't say them again." Ouyang Mei said, "Sister, if you keep thinking like this, we'll feel uneasy too. It's rare for our whole family to be here today. Come, let's drink to our family's reunion today!" After everyone drank and sat down, and after eating, Mao Yuqin took Liu Yan's hand and said, "Liu Yan, women understand women best. Even though I'm your mother-in-law and much older than you, I still understand your feelings. You haven't had an easy time these past few years. Please don't say such things again.

" Liu Yan nodded with tears in her eyes.

After dinner, the family sat around the eight-immortal table and talked. Ouyang Dongdong was playing with Ruhan in the open space of the courtyard, Ruhan's giggles echoing throughout the yard. After a while, Ouyang Yiming called out to Ouyang Dongdong, "Dongdong, you need to rest now, you have an exam tomorrow." Ouyang Dongdong said, "It's okay."

Ouyang Mei ran over and said, "Ruhan always plays with you, it's time for him to play with me for a while." She picked up Ruhan and said, "Uncle has an exam tomorrow, how about playing with Auntie?" Ruhan said, "Okay." Ouyang Mei then carried Ruhan into her room. Ouyang Dongdong stood by the octagonal table for a moment and said to Liu Yan, "Sister, I'm going to rest." Liu Yan smiled and responded.

Ouyang Yiming, however, said, "Sit down, I want to talk to you." Ouyang Dongdong said, "The same old thing." Ouyang Yiming laughed and said, "Well, we still need to talk!" Ouyang Dongdong said, "You two talk, I'm going to sleep." Saying this, she turned and walked away, and Ouyang Yiming got up and followed her.

Mao Yuqin smiled and said to Liu Yan, "Look, she's still a child." Liu Yan smiled and said, "She's never been that big." She paused and said, "It's so nice to be with the whole family." The old man said, "I've been looking forward to all of you coming home." Mao Yuqin said, "It's not easy to get together at home often these days; the children all have their own jobs." The old man nodded and said,

"I understand all that. I may wish for it, but I can't let you all spend all day with this old man." As they were talking, Liu Yan seemed to have something on her mind and whispered to Mao Yuqin, "Mom, I want to talk to you alone." Mao Yuqin stood up in response.

The two walked away and stopped in front of the east wing. Liu Yan said, "Mom, please don't blame me for what I said. I talked to Yiming on the way here, and he was reluctant, but I think it's definitely going to happen."

Mao Yuqin looked at her and asked, "Is it about your wedding? I've talked to your grandfather and your father about it, and we were just saying we wanted to discuss it with you two. Your wedding is a must. We all understand that just getting a marriage certificate is too simple." Liu Yan hurriedly said, "Mom, you misunderstood. Whether Yiming and I have a wedding is entirely up to you. I'll do whatever you say. I wanted to talk about Ruhan."

Mao Yuqin had initially thought Liu Yan was talking about the wedding. Their family had discussed this before. Even disregarding Liu Yan's perspective, Ouyang Yiming had never had a wedding, and she couldn't let him have such a regret. Although Liu Yan was divorced, since she had entered the Ouyang family, there should still be a ceremony,

no matter how big or small. It would comfort Liu Yan. For a woman, Mao Yuqin believed that having a wedding was still very important. Of course, they had considered that if Ouyang Yiming held his wedding here, the neighbors would gossip a lot if Liu Yan brought a child with her. They had also discussed that it would be best for Ouyang Yiming and Liu Yan to hold their wedding in Jinling, so the whole family could go there. In the end, they decided to respect Ouyang Yiming and Liu Yan's wishes; if they wanted to hold the wedding at the old house, no one would object. Mao Yuqin had also wanted to discuss this matter with Ouyang Yiming and Liu Yan during their visit.

Hearing Liu Yan mention Ru Han's situation, my heart skipped a beat. I asked, "Ru Han? What about Ru Han?" Liu Yan said, "Ouyang Yiming and I have already obtained our marriage certificate. I'm thinking of changing Ru Han's surname back to mine after my work is settled in a few days. He's still surnamed Liu with me now."

Mao Yuqin said, "Actually, the child's surname isn't that important. He's an Ouyang family child anyway. Of course, if you're willing to change your surname to Ouyang, our family will be happy."

Liu Yan said, "We still need to consult with the family about this." Mao Yuqin said, "Of course you have the right to do this, and we'd be even happier to know. And Yiming wouldn't be unwilling to do this either!"

As she spoke, I was suspicious. Changing Ru Han's surname is perfectly normal; there was no need to bring it up separately. I thought, maybe she has something else to say. Sure enough, Liu Yan said, "Ruhan and Yiming haven't done a paternity test yet..."

Mao Yuqin suddenly realized and hurriedly said, "Liu Yan, I don't think it's necessary. Just looking at Ruhan's appearance, we're already certain this child is from the Ouyang family. Wait a minute, look at Yiming's childhood photos; they're practically identical. I said Ruhan and Yiming looked very alike when they were little, just like that. We have no doubt about that."

Liu Yan felt a little relieved, but still said, "Mom, I've thought about this for a long time. A paternity test is definitely necessary, even though I know very well that the child is Yiming's. Otherwise, I won't feel at ease." Mao Yuqin said, "Liu Yan, are you worried that our family might have doubts?" Liu Yan nodded without speaking.

Mao Yuqin said, "We know your relationship with Yiming. Even if we're not convinced Ruhan is from the Ouyang family, we'll still consider Ruhan a descendant of the Ouyang family. Don't bring this up again." Mao Yuqin's words didn't have any other meaning, but Liu Yan's heart skipped a beat. Although she understood that Mao Yuqin's words were meant to express her point of view, Liu Yan genuinely didn't want the Ouyang family to have any doubts about Ru Han. So she said, "Mom, I think I should still make it. I really want to make it for Yiming and Ru Han."

From Liu Yan's attitude, Mao Yuqin understood that Liu Yan was confident and knew that Ruhan was Ouyang Yiming's child. She also understood that Liu Yan's insistence was to put the Ouyang family at ease. Although Mao Yuqin felt it was unnecessary, since Liu Yan insisted, she could only say, "Well then, I'll talk to Yiming." Liu Yan said, "Okay, you try to persuade him."

At this moment, Ouyang Mei carried Ruhan over. A few steps away, Ruhan called out, "Mommy, I want to sleep." Mao Yuqin went to meet him, picked him up, and asked, "Ouyang Ruhan, how about sleeping with Grandma tonight?" Ruhan nodded. Mao Yuqin immediately became excited and said, "My darling, sleep with Grandma, sleep with Grandma!"

Liu Yan said, "I'll take him to give him a bath." Mao Yuqin said, "I'll do it, I'll take him to bathe." Turning to Ruhan, she asked, "Is that okay, Ruhan?" Ruhan nodded in agreement. Mao Yuqin happily kissed Ruhan on the cheek, laughing and saying, "Going to take a bath, our Ruhan is going to take a bath." She took a few steps, stopped, and turned back to Liu Yan, saying, "I'll talk to Yiming about it tomorrow." Liu Yan nodded.

Liu Yan and Ouyang Mei returned to the table and sat down. Ouyang Yiming was already sitting there, talking to the old man and Ouyang Anping about Ouyang Dongdong's exam tomorrow. Ouyang Yiming looked at Liu Yan and Ouyang Mei who had just sat down and said, "When we took the exam, we really didn't have Dongdong's confidence. We were definitely a little nervous back then. Dongdong has a very good mindset." Ouyang Mei said:

“Dongdong has such big ambitions! Do you know what he wants to do in the future?” Ouyang Yiming said, “I don’t know, he hasn’t told me anything.” Ouyang Mei whispered, “He didn’t tell anyone, only me, and he told me to keep it a secret.” Liu Yan asked, “What does he want to do in the future?” Ouyang Mei said, “He wants to be a mathematician.”

Ouyang Yiming exclaimed, “This guy has such high aspirations!” Ouyang Anping said, “Dongdong is most interested in mathematics.” Ouyang Mei said, “Dongdong told me there’s something very beautiful in mathematics; he said mathematics is aesthetics. I was somewhat interested in mathematics back then, but I didn’t really feel any beauty in it. Dongdong’s biggest wish is to be a student of the mathematician Wu Wenjun. He said he greatly admires Wu Wenjun’s research on topology, and even more so his research on ancient Chinese mathematics in number theory, algebra, and geometry. That’s his wish.” "To become a great mathematician like Wu Wenjun!" Ouyang Yiming smiled and said, "As long as he has that ambition, that's good. If he can really develop in this direction, it will be an honor for our whole family. I will cover his tuition fees." He turned to Liu Yan and asked, "Is that right, Liu Yan?" Liu Yan smiled and said, "Of course it should be like that. As the eldest brother, you must fulfill your obligations." The old man smiled and said, "It's good that you all can take care of each other in the future. Having this kind of heart is the greatest comfort to an old man. Blood is blood, and no matter what, blood relatives are the closest."

The old man's words were not meant to be, but when Liu Yan heard them, she thought of Ru Han. She thought to herself that she should at least have Ouyang Yiming and Ru Han do a paternity test. Although she knew in her heart that Ru Han was Ouyang Yiming's child, and the Ouyang family also said so, without verification, the Ouyang family would still have some doubts. Of course, she hoped that Ru Han could be as successful as Ouyang Yiming and his two siblings, and she wanted everyone in the Ouyang family to have no doubts. Ruhan's bloodline must be fully recognized by everyone in the family.

That night before going to bed, Liu Yan brought up this issue again with Ouyang Yiming. Ouyang Yiming said, "You see, everyone in the family treats Ruhan as their closest relative now, is there still any need for that?" Liu Yan said, "I see that. But Yiming, I have been married before, so please promise me, let's do it. Once the result is out, I'll be at peace, and your family won't have any more doubts." Ouyang Yiming sighed and said, "You're taking this too seriously. Actually, I understand your thoughts. As for you, you want to completely prove that Ruhan is a descendant of this family. I've thought about it too, and I want to be able to provide strong proof so that the family has no doubts. But Liu Yan, to be honest, it wasn't easy for us to get back together after going through so much. I'm really afraid, really afraid that if there's any deviation, wouldn't that cause a lot of trouble?"

Liu Yan quickly said, "Yiming, don't worry too much about me. My heart is only for my child. Don't worry, no matter how the test is done... " "This child is definitely yours, Ouyang Yiming's, I know that best. But it's not enough for just the two of us to know. Ruhan will change his surname to Ouyang in a few days, and everyone needs to accept him as a descendant of the Ouyang family." Ouyang Yiming said helplessly, "Since you insist, then do it. If you don't, I think you'll feel uneasy even if everyone in the family completely believes it. Okay, I'll talk to Mom about it tomorrow." Liu Yan said, "I've already talked to Mom about this. You can discuss it with Grandpa, Dad, and Mom tomorrow. Don't be angry." Ouyang Yiming smiled and said, "You're so stubborn." But he was a little uncomfortable with Liu Yan's insistence on this matter.

Liu Yan looked at him and knew that he was still somewhat unwilling, but she was happy that Ouyang Yiming had agreed. She smiled and hugged him, saying coquettishly, "So it's because you love me and cherish me." As she spoke, she leaned in and kissed him. After a while, all of Ouyang Yiming's unhappiness vanished. In the midst of a tender and soothing kiss, Ouyang Yiming's hand caressed Liu Yan's plump breasts. Liu Yan's arm moved along Ouyang Yiming's back. Ouyang Yiming's erection was already hard and swollen. Liu Yan felt it, moved her hand away from Ouyang Yiming's back, and grabbed the hot penis in front of her. At this moment, her crotch was already wet... Love and Desire (189) Chapter 187 In the middle of the night, Ouyang Yiming had a dream. In the dream, Ouyang Yiming came to a hillside. The mountains were green and the water was clear. The flowers were fragrant, butterflies were in flocks, and birds sang melodiously... There was a large green meadow, with many colorful flowers blooming among the grass. Ouyang Yiming strolled on the meadow, enjoying the charm of nature.

Suddenly, he saw a flower, a white flower the size of a saucer. The flower was peculiar; a single stem supported this enormous white blossom, without a single green leaf to complement it.

The flower was so dazzling, as if the entire green field had grown solely for it. The pure white petals appeared so pristine and noble. Ouyang Yiming ran closer, bent down to examine it closely, and inhaled a strange, intoxicating fragrance. He vaguely felt he had smelled this scent somewhere before, but couldn't quite place it.

At that moment, a profound reverence and awe arose within him for this flower. He thought, perhaps this is a celestial flower, one that does not exist in the mortal world. Suddenly, a thought, an impulse, a fear that someone might come and pluck the flower, that someone might accidentally trample it, that a storm might destroy it… In short, in that instant, Ouyang Yiming wanted to do everything in his power to protect the flower, as if it were his duty to protect it, as if only he could protect it. He thought for a long time but couldn't figure out how to completely protect it. He thought that now, all he could do was stay here, preventing anyone or any animal from approaching it, from damaging it, from taking it away… If a storm came, he would use his body to shield it from the wind and rain; if the sun blazed down, he would shield it from the sun… So he sat down beside the flower, his eyes fixed on the flower that captivated him… Suddenly, he heard someone call "Yiming," a voice so warm and familiar. Turning around, he was stunned—it was Xu Hui! Xu Hui, dressed in a pure white wedding gown, smiled and slowly walked towards him. Ouyang Yiming was stunned. After a moment, he snapped to his senses, jumped to his feet, and called out Xu Hui's name as he went to greet her. The two stood face to face, looked at each other for a few moments, and then embraced.

Both wept, weeping for a long time, embracing for a long time… As they separated, Ouyang Yiming

, with tears in his eyes, asked, “Xu Hui, I missed you so much. Where did you go? Why didn't you even come to see me? Are you doing well?” Xu Hui, with tears in her eyes but a smile on her face, said, “Yiming, I went to where I belonged, where I belonged. I'm doing very well now, very well. I can see you often.” Ouyang Yiming said, “Then why didn't you come to see me? Do you know how much I missed you? Was anyone bullying you there? I… I was so worried that you were being bullied all by yourself, I was so worried…”

Xu Hui smiled and said, "No, no one will bully me. My sisters all love and care for me, and my master especially likes me." Ouyang Yiming asked suspiciously, "Your master? Who is your master?" Xu Hui said, "Yiming, we could never be husband and wife. I don't belong to the mortal realm. I am an emissary of the Great Brahma King. You should keep this to yourself and not tell anyone else, including Liu Yan. As for how I came to be by your side in the mortal realm, that's a secret and cannot be revealed to others. I came down here to do a few things for the Heavenly King and also to tell you about Liu Yan and your child." Ouyang Yiming was somewhat alarmed and asked, "You know...you..." "You know about my marriage to Liu Yan?

You know about the child? Are you angry?" Xu Hui smiled and said, "I know everything. I'm not angry, I won't blame you. You two are meant to be husband and wife in this life. It's a blessing from many lifetimes." Ouyang Yiming said, "It's good that you're not angry. I was afraid you would be angry. Xu Hui, you...you know, I...I love Liu Yan." Xu Hui said, "I know, I know you still love her the most." As she spoke, her eyes reddened, and she paused before saying, "Yiming, this child is indeed yours, born to you by Liu Yan, a descendant of the Ouyang family, absolutely true. You mustn't have the slightest doubt."

Ouyang Yiming asked in surprise, "You know all this?" Xu Hui nodded. Ouyang Yiming said, "I have no doubts, and our family believes me too. It's just that Liu Yan is always worried about our family, afraid they won't believe us, afraid they'll have doubts." Xu Hui said, "I know all that. I came here to talk to my family about it. Liu Yan is a good woman; she will take good care of you for the rest of her life, she will love you for the rest of her life. I feel at ease with you being with her." Ouyang Yiming nodded. Xu Hui smiled and said, "Alright, I should go now. I'll come to see you when necessary." Ouyang Yiming hugged her tightly, tears streaming down his face, saying, "I won't let you go, I won't let you go..."

Xu Hui smiled and said, "I don't belong to the mortal realm. Listen to me, I still have a few things to do. Remember, you must cherish Liu Yan by your side for the rest of your life, love her, and cherish her." Ouyang Yiming said through tears, "I will, I will..." Xu Hui smiled contentedly, and suddenly a few large tears fell from her eyes, disappearing into Ouyang Yiming's tight embrace. Ouyang Yiming stood there, tears streaming down his face, stunned for a long time. When he turned to look at the flower, it was gone... The next morning, when he woke up, Ouyang Yiming remembered the scene of seeing Xu Hui in his dream very clearly, even remembering every single word of their conversation. He turned to look at Liu Yan sleeping beside him, wondering: How could he only dream of Xu Hui so long after her death? How could he remember their conversation, including every gesture, so clearly? Xu Hui said she was an emissary of Brahma, could Xu Hui really be a celestial being now? After thinking for a while, he still felt suspicious about everything in the dream.

Liu Yan opened her eyes, looked at Ouyang Yiming beside her, her eyes filled with confusion, then suddenly filled with panic. She reached out and hugged Ouyang Yiming, saying, "Yiming, I had a dream."

Ouyang Yiming's heart tightened, and he asked, "A dream? What dream?" Liu Yan said in a panic, "I... I dreamed of Xu Hui." Ouyang Yiming stared at Liu Yan, his mouth slightly agape in shock. Liu Yan said anxiously, "Xu Hui told me not to mention the paternity test for Ru Han anymore, saying you'd be unhappy." Ouyang Yiming slowly came to his senses, his heart pounding wildly. He thought to himself,

"It seems everything in this dream is real; it really is Xu Hui who sent me a message in my dream." Liu Yan said, "I don't know why I had this dream. I usually can't remember my dreams after waking up, but this dream is particularly vivid." Ouyang Yiming said, "Liu Yan, don't be afraid. It seems like Xu Hui is sending us a message in a dream. I also had a dream, and I dreamt of her too. She said Ru Han is my biological child and that I shouldn't have any doubts. She said you're a good woman who will love and cherish me for a lifetime, and that I should cherish you and love you too..." Just as he was about to say what Xu Hui had said in the dream—that she was an emissary of Brahma—he suddenly remembered Xu Hui's instructions and stopped abruptly. Liu Yan stared at him wide-eyed and said, "It seems this is true, it really is." Ouyang Yiming said, "Yes, yes."

Liu Yan shed tears and murmured, "Xu Hui is such a good girl, truly. Xu Hui, don't worry, I will definitely take good care of Yiming and the child." After talking for a while and sighing, the two got up. Just as they went out, they saw Ouyang Mei talking to Mao Yuqin at the door of the east wing. Ouyang Yiming pulled Liu Yan and walked over.

Before they got close, Ouyang Mei heard footsteps, turned around, and saw the two of them. She quickly waved and said, "Brother, sister, come quickly." Ouyang Yiming and Liu Yan hurried over to them. After they stopped, Ouyang Mei said, "Sister Hui appeared in my and my mother's dreams last night, saying that Ruhan is our family's child, your own flesh and blood, Ouyang Yiming." Ouyang Yiming and Liu Yan exchanged glances, then turned back to hear Mao Yuqin say, "Yes, it was Xu Hui who appeared in our dreams, to tell us that Ruhan is a descendant of the Ouyang family." Liu Yan burst into tears again, murmuring, "Xu Hui, Liu Yan thanks you, thank you." Ouyang Yiming asked, "Is Xu Hui the one in the wedding dress?" Mao Yuqin and Ouyang Mei said, "Yes." Ouyang Yiming asked, "Did Xu Hui say she came specifically to tell us this?" Mao Yuqin and Ouyang Mei exchanged glances, then turned back to look directly at Ouyang Yiming. Ouyang Yiming said, "Xu Hui appeared in both my and Liu Yan's dreams last night to talk about this matter." Mao Yuqin and Ouyang Mei exclaimed in surprise. Liu Yan said with tears in her eyes, "Yes, she appeared in my dream too. Xu Hui, Xu Hui, thank you, thank you."

Mao Yuqin composed herself and said to Liu Yan, "Liu Yan, don't mention the Ruhan appraisal again. Xu Hui was worried that we wouldn't believe her, so she came to tell us. Liu Yan, we've actually believed it all along. Come and see Yiming's childhood photos later; he's a spitting image of him. We all believe it." Liu Yan choked up and said, "I won't say it again."

Turning to Ouyang Yiming, she said, "Yiming, I want to go to the west wing to see Xu Hui and offer her some incense." "Mao Yuqin said, 'You all wash your faces and come together later. I often go to the west wing to see Xu Hui.' She paused and said to Liu Yan, 'Liu Yan, I... I also treated her like my own daughter. Xu Hui was a good child. Look, even after she's gone, she still cares about our family and even appeared in our dreams. I...'

As she spoke, tears streamed down her face, and she thought to herself, 'Xu Hui, my child, I really miss you, I really miss you. How could you leave so early...' She couldn't control herself as she thought of this, tears streaming down her face, and she turned and walked away.

Liu Yan saw Mao Yuqin's expression and her tears, and she still knew clearly that everyone in this family had an indescribable affection for Xu Hui.

After washing up, Ouyang Yiming, Liu Yan, and Ouyang Mei went into the west wing and offered incense before Xu Hui's portrait on the table in the outer room." Looking at the portrait, Liu Yan said, "Good sister, don't worry, I will take good care of Yiming and love her for the rest of my life..."

Mao Yuqin bought breakfast from the street. After eating, Ouyang Yiming asked Ouyang Dongdong, "Are you ready?" Ouyang Dongdong said, "I'm ready." Mao Yuqin said, "Make sure you bring your exam admission ticket and everything." Ouyang Dongdong said she knew. Ouyang Yiming said, "I think I should drive you." Ouyang Dongdong said, "Let's not. If I, a student, have to be driven to the exam, people will talk." Ouyang Yiming said, "Then we have to go later too!" Ouyang Dongdong said, "Actually, you don't need to go. It's my exam, not yours. Why do so many people need to go?" He bent down and touched Ruhan's face, saying, "Ouyang Ruhan, Uncle is going to take the exam. Wait for me at home. I'll buy you something delicious when I come back." Ouyang Ruhan nodded. Ouyang Dongdong turned around, pushed his bicycle, and smiled at everyone, "I'm going to fight. Everyone, wish me luck!" Everyone laughed. Ouyang Dongdong smiled and waved to Ruhan, saying, "Ouyang Ruhan, wait for me at home. Say goodbye to your uncle." Ruhan giggled and waved back. Ouyang Dongdong went out the door, hopped on her bicycle, and rode off. Mao Yuqin called after her, "Be careful riding, slow down..." Ouyang Dongdong responded with "Yes, yes," but didn't slow down. Once

inside, Ouyang Yiming said, "I'm going to check out the industrial park near my workplace later." Liu Yan said, "Go ahead, we'll stay home. It's so hot, we won't go out." Ouyang Yiming agreed. Ouyang Mei said, "If it weren't so hot, we would have gone to Panlong Mountain." Liu Yan said, "There will be plenty of opportunities later. I'm just worried Ruhan won't be able to handle it."

Ouyang Yiming drove to his workplace and went upstairs to Vice President Wang's office first. After discussing some matters, Vice President Wang brought up Liu Yan's situation again. Ouyang Yiming smiled and asked, "Are there many versions of the story?" Vice President Wang said, "I don't know much about the discussions below, but some leaders from the Municipal Party Committee and the Science and Technology Commission asked me about it a few days ago. I really didn't know. I couldn't ask you while you were in Germany for your inspection, so I couldn't answer them. But yesterday when I went to the Science and Technology Commission, I heard that Mayor Tang had called about your situation. Have you already obtained your marriage certificate?" Ouyang Yiming said, "Yes, we've obtained the marriage certificate, so we're officially married. Let people say what they want." Vice President Wang nodded and said, "Yes, you can't stop people from talking. Have you set a date for the wedding?" Ouyang Yiming said, "It's not set yet. It's just a formality. Let's wait and see." After talking for a while, Ouyang Yiming went to check out the industrial park at the back. Vice Dean Wang said, "I have some things to attend to, so I won't keep you company." Ouyang Yiming replied, "I'm just taking a look around; you go about your business."

After inspecting the mechanical production workshop and the asparagus production workshop, they moved to the sugar company's production workshop. Entering the first-floor delivery section, they saw two people squatting in a corner playing chess. Ouyang Yiming walked over and asked, "Is it allowed to play chess during working hours here?" One was a newly recruited operator, and the other was a recent college graduate assigned to the institute for an internship in the workshop. Neither of them recognized Ouyang Yiming. They looked up at him. The operator asked, "Hey, what brings you in? Outsiders aren't allowed in the production workshop." Ouyang Yiming smiled and asked, "Is it allowed to play chess in the production workshop?" The operator seemed impatient, his face hardening as he asked, "What are you doing here? Who are you looking for?" Ouyang Yiming said, "I'm just looking around." At that moment, a woman rushed over and respectfully called out to Ouyang Yiming, "Dean Ouyang!" Upon hearing that it was Dean Ouyang, the two chess players hurriedly stood up, their faces flushed, and bowed their heads in silence. Ouyang Yiming asked the college student, "Which section are you from?" The student replied, "I'm a recent graduate, interning in the hydrolysis section." Ouyang Yiming asked, "You came from the hydrolysis section to the delivery section just to play chess?" The student said, "The hydrolysis was under pressure, so... I was wrong."

Ouyang Yiming asked, "Let me ask you a question. If the steam valve leaks and the pressure gradually increases without anyone watching, what might happen to the hydrolysis tank?" The student remained silent. Ouyang Yiming said, "You don't know? Let me tell you, when the pressure rises to the tank's pressure limit, it might cause a tank blowout, and in severe cases, an explosion. The entire sugar processing workshop could be rendered unusable. The crucial issue is that it could injure many workers in the workshop. Do you understand the serious consequences of leaving your post without authorization? If that happens, you'll be committing a crime?" The student trembled, his voice shaking, "Dean Ouyang, I was wrong."

Ouyang Yiming said, "Go back to your post." The student hurriedly walked away.

Ouyang Yiming turned to another woman and said, "You go to your post too." After she left, Ouyang Yiming asked the woman who had arrived later, "What's your position?"

The woman replied, "I'm the section chief of the handover section." Ouyang Yiming asked, "Didn't you know someone was playing chess in your section?" The woman said, "I...I didn't notice..." Ouyang Yiming said,

"You didn't notice, did you? Didn't you realize you're not doing a good job as section chief?" The woman blushed and lowered her head, remaining silent. Ouyang Yiming asked, "Is your manager here?" The woman said,

"He's...in his office, I think." Ouyang Yiming said, "Go to work."

Manager Xie Liang, seeing Ouyang Yiming enter, hurriedly stood up, his face beaming, and said, "Oh dear, when did Dean Ouyang get back?" Ouyang Yiming sat down without a word, and Xie Liang went to pour him some water.

Ouyang Yiming said, "Don't rush, sit down, I have something to say." Xie Liang sat down, noticing Ouyang Yiming's strange expression and becoming somewhat nervous. Ouyang Yiming said, "Manager Xie, it's quite comfortable sitting here with the air conditioning on!" Xie Liang was at a loss, his face flushed, and he looked at Ouyang Yiming without saying a word. Ouyang Yiming said, "I just came from the workshop and saw two operators playing chess. I wanted to ask you, was it the workers' fault or your mistake?" Xie Liang's face instantly turned bright red, and he asked anxiously, "Which section? I..." Ouyang Yiming looked at him and said, "Don't worry about which section it was. First, think about whether you're a competent manager. I've visited all the workshops in the industrial park and haven't found any problems. If you can't do this job, I can immediately find you a more comfortable place. Okay, don't think about how to deal with the workshop workers. The key is yourself. How are you acting as a manager? How are you doing your job? Once you've thought this through, go directly to Dean Wang." With that, he stood up and left.

Back in the office building, Ouyang Yiming told Vice President Wang about the incident. Vice President Wang said it must be dealt with seriously. Ouyang Yiming said, "Some of our department leaders and workers have a weak sense of safety and a poor sense of responsibility. If something happens, it will be too late." Vice President Wang nodded and said, "Xie Liang usually does a good job. What's wrong with him lately? I've been busy and haven't paid enough attention to this. I'll take some time to look into it." Ouyang Yiming knew that Vice President Wang had personally promoted Xie Liang, so he didn't want to say anything more about it. He then talked about the relocation of the entire research lab to Jinling and some other work-related matters.

Ouyang Yiming returned to his office and sat down, then thought about his dream about Xu Hui last night.

Xu Hui had appeared in the dreams of four members of his family, which showed how much she cared for the Ouyang family. But what puzzled him was that Xu Hui said in the dream that she was a messenger of Brahma. Could it be true? Suddenly realizing that the Brahma King Xu Hui mentioned was the Four-Faced Buddha enshrined at Maoshan Temple, his heart pounded wildly. Could Xu Hui have been a messenger of the Four-Faced Buddha in her past life?

Was the master Xu Hui spoke of the Four-Faced Buddha? Then, was Xu Hui never a mortal? He recalled Xu Hui's first visit to Maoshan Temple; her sudden dizziness must have been related to the Four-Faced Buddha. A sense of trepidation crept in. He thought of the moments he had spent with Xu Hui, silently remarking: "Such a pure girl, how could she possibly exist in the mortal world…?" That afternoon, Ouyang Yiming drove to Maoshan Temple. It had been quite a while since he'd been there. Ouyang Yiming parked his car in the open space in front of the temple, stood there for a while, and then slowly entered. Everything was as before; the clear, melodious sound of the wooden fish drum still filled the air with a captivating rhythm. Ouyang Yiming stepped lightly to the entrance, and the sound of the wooden fish drum abruptly ceased. Ouyang Yiming paused at the doorway, startled, when the monk said, "Amitabha, please come in, benefactor." Ouyang Yiming stepped inside and saw the monk sitting there smiling at him. He clasped his hands together and said, "Greetings, Master." The monk returned the greeting and pointed to a prayer cushion about a meter away, saying, "Please sit, benefactor." Ouyang Yiming said, "Thank you, Master. I'll offer incense first." As he spoke, he took several ten-yuan bills from his pocket and put them in the basket. He then took the incense, lit it, and began to pray before the Four-Faced Buddha. His mind drifted to Xu Hui's dream of her being the messenger of this Four-Faced Buddha…

The monk watched Ouyang Yiming offer incense and pray, then closed his eyes. Amazed that the man worshipping Brahma, as described by his master, was actually a crucian carp from the Jade Pool of Heaven, sent by Brahma in a drunken rage to cultivate in the well within the courtyard, destined for reincarnation in the mortal world… After offering incense, Ouyang Yiming returned to the prayer mat beside the monk and sat down, smiling slightly, “Master, you are still in such good health. I haven’t been able to visit you while working out of town.” The monk said, “Amitabha,” and replied, “It’s kind of you to think of me. I am in good health.” Ouyang Yiming said, “You are getting on in years; you must take care of your health. To be honest, it’s quite worrying to see an old man like you here alone.” The monk smiled slightly and said, “I am always protected by Buddha and the Heavenly King.” Ouyang Yiming nodded in agreement. Seeing the wooden fish in front of the monk, a thought struck him, and he asked, “Master, why do monks in the monastery always strike wooden fish? Why are they all carved into wooden fish shapes?” The monk replied, “Fish never close their eyes day or night, just as practitioners should forget sleep day and night to attain the Way.”

Ouyang Yiming nodded, thinking to himself that the fish must have committed a terrible mistake to deserve this. There are many animals in the world that never close their eyes day and night, yet it was precisely the fish that was being beaten by the monks day and night. After thinking for a moment, he decided not to delve too deeply into it, so he smiled and said, "I thought the fish had done something wrong." The monk smiled but said nothing. (Note: Actually, the monk's striking of the wooden fish has a different interpretation, originating from the story of catching six giant turtles with one hook in the *Liezi*. It has absolutely no intention of warning practitioners. The wooden fish carving, with the monk constantly striking it, is merely a reminder of the turtles' negligence and Yu Qiang's lax discipline. This topic is not discussed in this article.) Ouyang Yiming's visit to the temple was naturally about Xu Hui's dream, so he asked, "Master, I have something to ask you. Who is the messenger of the Great Brahma King?" The monk replied, "The Great Brahma King's messengers are seven swans, the smallest of which is the Great Brahma King's favorite." The enlightened monk naturally knew about the swans and Ouyang Yiming's connection. Ouyang Yiming was startled, thinking to himself that yesterday's dream was undoubtedly a message from Xu Hui, and Xu Hui was indeed one of the swans beside the Great Brahma King. But which swan it was, Ouyang Yiming couldn't know, and could only guess—could it be the smallest one? So he said, "Last night I had a dream..." The monk interrupted him, saying, "Dreams are a mixture of reality and illusion. If you choose to believe it, it's real; if you don't, it's unreal."

Ouyang Yiming looked at the monk, not understanding why he had been interrupted. After thinking for a moment, he assumed that the monk might not want to hear about his dream, so he nodded without saying a word. The monk said, "You are also destined to meet the Heavenly King. Please forgive my bluntness." Ouyang Yiming's heart pounded. He asked, "Master, please speak." The monk smiled slightly and said, "I am grateful for your repeated visits, and it is also because you are destined to meet the Heavenly King. I have a few words for you. You are a man of strong emotions. In the future, you should act decisively for the greatest fortune. I predict that there will be a major change in your life before you turn forty. Remember, knowing when to retreat will lead to a brighter future. Never be attached to the past or act on impulse. Make a clean break when necessary, and everything will go smoothly afterward."

Ouyang Yiming was puzzled and asked, "Master, are you referring to life or career? Could you please clarify?" The monk smiled and said, "You will know in time. It cannot be revealed to others." Ouyang Yiming nodded. Since the monk said so, something must happen before he turns forty. How could an ordinary person know the future? This monk must not be an ordinary person. Thinking back to Xu Hui's dream from the previous night, knowing it was a secret not to be revealed, Ouyang Yiming felt a surge of respect for the monk and said, "Thank you for the warning, Master. I will remember it." The monk uttered "Amitabha" and said nothing more. Ouyang Yiming said, "Master, please take care of yourself." The monk clasped his hands together and uttered "Amitabha." Ouyang Yiming got up and went out. After standing in the courtyard for a while, he felt an irresistible pull to go and see the old well. He walked over, looked at it for a while, and felt a subtle, indescribable emotion. After a while, he left.

That evening after dinner, the family chatted for a while in the courtyard. Mao Yuqin called Liu Yan and Ouyang Yiming into the east wing. After they sat down, Mao Yuqin said, "Liu Yan, Yiming, now that you two have obtained your marriage certificate and are living together, you are a complete family. Yiming, all the wages you used to give me, I've been saving for you. Your commissions from work, all the receipts from your workplace, I should now give them to you." Liu Yan looked at Ouyang Yiming, then turned back to Mao Yuqin and said, "Mom, let him stay with you."

Mao Yuqin said, "Now that the child is grown up, married, and has married you, he should be completely entrusted to you." His things should be completely handed over to you. Even without Meizi and Dongdong, I can't leave these things with me after you're married.” Ouyang Yiming said, “If Meizi and Dongdong need them in the future…” Mao Yuqin said, “You're the eldest. Even if they need them, it depends on your willingness as their older brother. If you're willing to help them, it has to be discussed between the two of you. As parents, we will never interfere in such matters. Of course, if you two help them, it's also helping me and your father, but you two absolutely must discuss it carefully. It's a matter of goodwill, not obligation. After all, you have your own complete family.” "

Ouyang Yiming said, 'Mom, as the eldest son, it's my duty. Okay, Mom, we'll keep those receipts and such. You can keep his old wages. I've often lived at home these past few years; I can't expect you to support me now that I'm working.' Liu Yan said, 'Mom, Yiming is right. Let's keep his wages with you.'

Mao Yuqin smiled and said, 'Don't say that. I won't keep any of the wages or these things. They should be kept by you. Okay, don't say anything more.'

She stood up, opened the cupboard, took out a box wrapped in red silk, unwrapped the silk, and took out a large envelope, saying, 'Liu Yan, this contains everything Yiming gave me, including your photos.' Liu Yan took it." Mao Yuqin opened the wooden box and took out the pair of family heirloom gold bracelets, saying, "Liu Yan, these were passed down from our Ouyang family ancestors." She handed them to Liu Yan, who looked at them. Mao Yuqin continued, "These gold bracelets should have been passed down directly to you by your grandmother. She passed away early, so now I'm the only one left to give them to you. Our ancestors passed down two pairs of gold bracelets, which, according to tradition, are passed down to the next generation. I have another pair here, which I will personally pass on to Ruhan's wife when he gets married. These bracelets aren't particularly valuable, but they represent the older generation's hopes for the Ouyang family's prosperity. Our Ouyang family has had only one son per generation for several generations, and these bracelets symbolize the prosperity of the Ouyang family. You must keep them safe."

Liu Yan nodded solemnly, naturally understanding the meaning behind Mao Yuqin giving her these things, especially the heirloom gold bracelets, which held extraordinary significance. At that moment, she felt an extraordinary surge of emotion, thinking to herself, "Now I'm officially a member of the Ouyang family, finally accepted by them." As she thought this, she also thought of the grievances she had suffered over the past few years. A bittersweet emotion welled up inside him, and he felt an urge to cry; tears welled up in his eyes… At that moment, Ouyang Yiming recalled the scene of his grandmother handing the gold bracelets to Xu Hui before she passed away. Thinking of his grandmother and Xu Hui, both no longer in this world, he felt another wave of sadness.

Mao Yuqin smiled and said, “Liu Yan, I feel at ease giving these to you. Live a good life; your happiness is the wish of our Ouyang family ancestors. In a couple of years, give our Ouyang family another son or daughter; the elders will be more at ease in the afterlife.” Liu Yan nodded.

Mao Yuqin looked at Liu Yan’s trembling hands as she wrapped the box, and naturally understood Liu Yan’s feelings. At that moment, she also thought of her own mother-in-law handing the gold bracelets to Xu Hui. Then she saw Liu Yan’s tears falling onto the red silk cloth, and her heart ached, and she wanted to cry too. Unconsciously, she softly called out, "Yanzi." Liu Yan shook her head, her lips trembling as she looked at her mother before suddenly hugging Mao Yuqin and sobbing softly… Mao Yuqin, tears streaming down her face, gently patted Liu Yan's head and said, "Child, the past is the past, don't think about it anymore. Be a good girl." Liu Yan nodded, but couldn't stop her tears. After a while, the mother and daughter separated, and they saw Ouyang Yiming with his back to them, tears streaming down his face.

Mao Yuqin said, "Alright, you shouldn't be sad today. Yiming, Liu Yan, let's talk about your wedding." Ouyang Yiming quietly wiped away his tears and turned around. Mao Yuqin said,

"Your grandfather, your father, Meizi, and I have discussed your wedding. Our opinion is that you two should have a wedding, no matter how big or small, otherwise it just doesn't feel right. I wonder what you two think." Ouyang Yiming said, "Liu Yan and I have also discussed it, but the wedding should be held after Xu Hui's anniversary, otherwise it would be unfair to Xu Hui. Also, we don't want to hold the wedding at the old house; a simple wedding in Jinling will be fine. I wonder what you and Grandpa think." Mao Yuqin said, "That's exactly what we mean. Liu Yan, you're now part of the Ouyang family, and there are some things we can't hide from you. The Ouyang family has lived on this street for generations; we know everyone, from the oldest to the youngest. This place is like a small society; you can find all kinds of people here. The gossip from neighbors is often much harsher than what people say at work. Although we may not care, on our big day, we really don't want people talking behind our backs. We've also discussed it, and it would be best if you held the wedding in Jinling; our whole family will go. Liu Yan, we're just worried that you might feel uncomfortable."

Liu Yan said, "No, Mom, I understand. Where the wedding is held is just a formality. Normally, I don't care much about whether we have a wedding or not, but I don't want Ouyang Yiming to have any regrets. Let's hold the wedding in Jinling."

Ouyang Dongdong had just finished his college entrance exams and felt very satisfied with his answers. On the morning of July 10th, Ouyang Yiming, Liu Yan, and Ru Han returned to Jinling. Two days later, Liu Yan reported to the Propaganda Department of the Military Region Political Department, taking up the position of deputy battalion-level officer. A few days later, Ru Han's household registration was transferred from Jianghan. Liu Yan registered Ru Han's household registration at the local police station and changed his name to Ouyang Ru Han.

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