“Alright, Mom,” Zhao Ran promptly addressed her as such.
“Mhm, coming into work today? How was the business trip? Did you get to have some fun?”
“It was quite good. I got back pretty late yesterday, so I didn’t have time to come see you. Yueyue went to work early this morning—she told me to check in with you, hehe,” Zhao Ran said jokingly.
Over this period, Zhao Ran had gotten along very well with his girlfriend’s family. While Yueyue’s mother had a rather imposing presence, she was always gentle and kind toward him. Her father went without saying—also a genuinely good-natured man. They already felt like a harmonious family, so Zhao Ran spoke more freely now, not as reserved as he had been initially.
After hearing him out, Yueyue’s mother said, “She’s always like this. Xiao Ran, although Yueyue is a bit older than you, she’s not as steady. Please make sure to look after her and give in to her whenever you can.”
Zhao Ran hurriedly replied, “Not at all, not at all. She’s just a bit scatterbrained—doesn’t have messy or complicated thoughts. She just loves to have fun, but she’s very reasonable. I really like her, and I’ll take good care of her.”
“Mhm, I feel reassured knowing you’re keeping an eye on her.” After chatting with Yueyue’s mother for a bit, Zhao Ran quickly returned to work. Talking with her for too long still made him somewhat uncomfortable, especially at the workplace, which wasn’t as relaxed as being at home.
Zhao Ran had heard from Yin Yue that her mother’s birth name was Zheng Yao. Although she had her family’s support, her personal capabilities were undeniable. She had been outstanding from elementary school all through university. Some people are just cut out to be leaders—she was elected student council president as a sophomore. Beautiful and intelligent, she had plenty of admirers.
But few dared to pursue her. There were a handful who tried, but her icy demeanor kept them at a distance. Eventually, most could only admire her from afar. Right after graduating university, she was directly assigned to a position. Her father understood her well—he knew she was cut out for a career in politics. Worried that if she climbed too high and got older, finding a husband would become even harder, he quickly reached out to old colleagues and comrades to arrange introductions for his daughter.
Back then, although Zheng Yao was independent, she was actually quite supportive of the arranged meetings. She attended every one. And surprisingly, she actually met someone—Yin Yue’s father.
Though Yin Guozheng’s name might sound plain, he was a man of talent. The son of her grandfather’s comrade, he took a liking to Zheng Yao at first sight. She may not have fallen for him instantly, but she didn’t dislike him either. Combined with Yin Guozheng’s persistent pursuit, things naturally fell into place over time.
Yin Yue heard that her mother also saw her father as sufficiently honest and obedient—someone who could look after the children and manage the household without opposing her. She thought finding someone like that wouldn’t be bad.
And so, she married him.
Zhao Ran thought about it—his father-in-law really had it tough.
But then again, Yueyue’s mother treated him quite well. She was beautiful, and beauties are entitled to have strong personalities.
Besides, last time, Yueyue’s mother mentioned that after he returned, they could go for morning runs together. She said Yin Yue’s father, being a literary type, disliked physical activity. As for Yin Yue—well, staying up late was no problem, but waking up early for exercise was out of the question.
Since Zhao Ran had the same work schedule as her and his job wasn’t too strenuous, it was a good chance to get some exercise.
Zhao Ran happily agreed.
That evening, Zhao Ran and Yin Yue went to her parents’ place for dinner. The housekeeper left after preparing the meal, and the family sat around the table eating and chatting in a very warm atmosphere.
Yin Yue’s father said, “Having one more person at the table really makes it livelier. It’d be even better soon with a little one added.” He then glanced at his daughter.
Yin Yue immediately buried her head in her meal and didn’t respond.
Zhao Ran had no choice but to say, “Dad, there’s no need to rush. We’re still young.” Her father replied, “I’m just saying—look at her, she doesn’t even dare answer me.”