Chapter 141-150

Chapter 141: New Recruits' Three Months Training Period, It's Over! (5)


Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


"The one who doesn't get selected need not to be discouraged, for after the new recruits' three-month training period, the advanced training camp will accept applications on a monthly basis. As long as you continue to perform well, you'll get in ."


Chen Haoyang did not deliver an ultimatum. Hearing that, Gu Qingjiu heaved a sigh of relief.


That was okay. She didn't mind who would enter first as long as she made it in.


If the new recruits' period spanned over two years and the advanced training camp accepted names every month, it was impossible for her to not get in.


"Okay, I've already said this much. You two don't have to prepare anything but confirm that you'll be joining the army. After going back to your respective families, I'll let you know the decision once you've returned. Attention, at ease, dismissed!"


Chen Haoyang left, leaving Gu Qingjiu and Xie Ya behind.


Just when Gu Qingjiu was about to leave, Xie Ya smiled as she said, "Gu Qingjiu, if you made it in, I will reveal to everyone that you got in via unscrupulous means."


That thinly veiled threat caused Gu Qingjiu to frown slightly, but at the same time, it amused her.


"What you're implying is that if I were to get in, it's because I used underhanded means? Which underhanded means are you referring to? Chief Instructor? Or Commander Huo?"


With no bubbling concerns on her expression, she looked at Xie Ya and said all of that without hesitation.


Seeing how easily she admitted it, Xie Ya obviously felt displeased. "Other than pulling a pretense every day, what else do you know? Let me tell you, I will definitely enter the advanced training camp before you do!"


"Whether or not you get in is none of my business. But to say that I'm acting around, aren't you posing on high airs as well? If I were to get in before you, then you'll claim that I must've used underhanded methods? Your way of thinking is such a joke. Why aren't you wondering why both of our names were submitted? Will the rest of the recruits think both of us used underhanded methods?"


Even if she were to enter first, she wouldn't feel that she was incomparable to Xie Ya.


To put things down frankly, other than she was a martial poweress, Xie Ya didn't look like she had anything else which was outstanding just based on her everyday training. And now, there was this extra clause about how she might not be the brightest pea of the pile.


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As expected of someone who hangs out with Feng Meiyun!


Gu Qingjiu's words which had no sense of censor made Xie Ya's expression harden.


Apparently, after failing to make Gu Qingjiu speechless, it made Xie Ya upset.


Meanwhile, Gu Qingjiu, who could no longer be bothered with her, turned around to leave.


Knowing that Yu Bao'er would not continue in the army and that she might be alone in the future gave Gu Qingjiu a foul mood.


Xie Ya just happened to serve herself up at Gu Qingjiu's gunpoint.


It was rare for her to blatantly shoot someone else down.


When they first arrived, she was not as close to Yu Bao'er as they were now.


After she had gotten used to it, she felt that having a friend like her by her side was pretty nice.


So when Yu Bao'er decided upfront that she didn't want to join the army, she couldn't help but feel stifled.


Back at the dormitory, Yu Bao'er was already packing her belongings.


Jiang Yu and Feng Meiyun were packing their things as well.


There were three more days before the three months were up. They would get a week to return home afterward.


Because they wouldn't be allowed to go home for the next two years during the training period.


Even for New Years'.


And the one week break was for them to bid their farewells to their family.


Because Yu Bao'er would not come back anymore, she had a lot of things to pack.


When Gu Qingjiu saw that, she went forward to help Yu Bao'er pack her things. She asked softly, "Have you talked about this with your family? Did they agree?"


Yu Bao'er didn't look like she was in a great mood as well. She nodded as she pulled a grim smile. "They agreed."


Chapter 142: New Recruits' Three Months Training Period, It's Over! (6)


Hearing her say that, Gu Qingjiu did not know what to say as well.


She felt a sort of stifling sadness within.


It felt like she had to be separated from a friend she had just made.


Seeing Gu Qingjiu's quiet expression, Yu Bao'er spoke, "Don't be like this. After I go back, we can still talk to each other every week through video calls. Don't worry."


As she spoke, she suddenly leaned closer to Gu Qingjiu's ears, and she whispered, "Plead the Chief Instructor to let you out every week so we can go shopping every weekend."


Gu Qingjiu couldn't help but laugh. Yu Bao'er wished!


If she was really so thick-skinned, she had nothing to worry about!


Yu Bao'er laughed sheepishly. She was just joking since she knew that Gu Qingjiu wouldn't plead with the Chief Instructor for such matters.


Jiang Yu didn't hear what Yu Bao'er whispered, but she caught what she had said prior to that. In a shocked tone, she asked, "Bao'er, you're not coming back?"


Yu Bao'er was not that close with her, but she did not ignore and instead opted for a soft sound of acknowledgment.


Jiang Yu couldn't react in such a short time. Even Feng Meiyun who was packing her things turned to stare.


"Then... in the future, wouldn't it just be Qingjiu?"


The way she said that was weird, so the two didn't utter a sound.


Yu Bao'er continued packing her things before she suddenly sighed. "Don't worry Qingjiu. I will send you things once I'm out so that you won't get hungry or cold in here."


Gu Qingjiu became overwhelmed with joy.


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Yu Bao'er laughed at her own words as well.


Gu Qingjiu looked at Yu Bao'er's smiling expression that was so refreshing. This young lady's face exuded an aura of youthfulness and those eyes were filled to brim with loveliness.


It exhibited the beauty of girls their age.


How lucky she was—to be reborn and be able to meet these people.


This was a life she wouldn't have been able to picture in her previous lifetime.


Other than her parents, there were other people who treated her nicely and cared for her.


Suddenly recalling what had happened in the past, Gu Qingjiu felt her eyes watering.


When she thought about what Yu Bao'er had said, it was true.


It was just a two-year period. With the ease of communication lately, there wasn't a reason they couldn't keep in touch.


Gu Qingjiu was just worried. No matter how close they were, if they only relied on online means, they would eventually lose heart and their friendship would gradually fade away. That happened so frequently.


Yu Bao'er was one of her few good friends. Qingjiu only hoped that she could cherish what she had.


...


Three days later, the three months' period for the new recruits officially ended.


A few hundred or so of Gu Qingjiu's batch mates were carrying big and small bags. All had faces of relief, the joy of freedom, and the longing for their family members.


All of them boarded the chartered bus feeling excited.


After not returning home for three months, the longing for their home probably reached its peak.


Gu Qingjiu and Yu Bao'er carried their belongings as they mixed in the crowd and boarded the bus.


There were no instructors present to send them off, and they all relied on self-responsibility.


And the army also had a fixed rule stating that they had to return within a week.


After boarding the bus, Gu Qingjiu turned back and looked at the rows of buildings.


It was a big day for new recruits like them, but for the regulars and leaders of the camp, it was just like any other.


It had been a long time since Gu Qingjiu went to visit Doctor Nan and she did not bump into the Chief Instructor as well.


She thought about how Yu Bao'er wouldn't be here next time and that she would not even have a person to talk to.


Chapter 143: Meet Up


Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


Gu Qingjiu sat on the bus as she admired the surrounding scenery.


On her way back, Gu Qingjiu could see the people residing in the mountains; the red lanterns hung high up, exuding a festive atmosphere.


Because it hadn't been too long since New Years', Gu Qingjiu could still make it for the Spring Lantern Festival.


They had spent the New Year in the army.


Because they couldn't return home, the army had arranged a celebration for the new year for the new recruits and regulars.


But perhaps because they weren't at home, Gu Qingjiu felt that the festive feeling in the army was lackluster.


Following the advancement in technology, some traditions for celebrations were no longer as religiously followed.


Even during New Year, the streets slowly became more vibrant.


For city people, they would rather spend the New Year at home.


Though it was with the exception of the various activities at night, which made the city bustle slightly more.


Gu Qingjiu was actually a little against celebrating the New Year.


Because she remembered back in the Yu family that whenever they celebrated New Year, Yu family members would gather and chatter happily. But she, on the other hand, would always be relegated to being locked in her room.


She couldn't describe how neglect felt in that situation, but the only thing she recalled was that their various actions chilled her down to the bone.


Looking at the scenery outside, Gu Qingjiu easily sunk into her memories. Yu Bao'er who started feeling drowsy after boarding the bus had her head drooping, falling onto Gu Qingjiu's shoulders from time to time.


Gu Qingjiu supported her chin with her palm as she looked at the passing scenery. The beautiful scenery of the riverside was reflected in her eyes.


After a three hours' journey, the bus finally arrived at the city's interchange.


When they were about to alight, Gu Qingjiu woke Yu Bao'er up.


"Bao'er, wake up. We're almost there.."


For Yu Bao'er to stay asleep for the entire three hours, you got to give it to her.


Because she had been too excited about leaving, she didn't sleep much the night before, resulting in her lack of energy on the bus.


Gu Qingjiu originally wanted to chat a little with Yu Bao'er, but she guessed that it was fine.


"Ah... Ah?"


Yu Bao'er woke up groggily as she looked around with blurred eyes. As if she was still in her dreams, she mumbled, "We're here? It's so fast..."


She mumbled on before retrieving her cell phone from her pocket to check the time.


The bus stopped steadily at the interchange's allocated parking. Gu Qingjiu and Yu Bao'er carried their respective bags as they alighted with the crowd.


The bus driver was also an army personnel. Seeing these new recruits who looked like they finally returned to human society, he reminded, "It's one week. By then, those who plan to return to the army, remember to be on time."


Even if they were not in the camp, the new recruits all replied, 'affirmative' with respect. This orderly manner did not spark any curiosity from the people around them, though.


It has been like this every year. There would be many new recruits walking by around.


Like this endless crowd.


Yu Bao'er's house was at the city center of Dayi City, so she and Gu Qingjiu had to take separate buses.


Seeing that she would separate from Gu Qingjiu, Yu Bao'er couldn't bear it.


"Xiao Jiu'er, remember to contact me as often as you like if you want to chat."


She was a person of boisterous personality, but when she looked at Gu Qingjiu, despite knowing that they both resided in the same city, Yu Bao'er's eyes started to water.


Probably the atmosphere was too solemn, Gu Qingjiu joked, "It's not like we won't see each other anymore. You don't have to be this sad. We can arrange to go out and play together tomorrow."


Chapter 144: Great Aunt


Although they were not at the same place, it was still convenient to meet up.


Hearing that, it somehow lifted the sad atmosphere for a little bit. Yu Bao'er smiled back. "Okay."


Gu Qingjiu nodded as she smiled, too. "I will call you tomorrow when I come out. You just have to remember to answer your phone."


She had experienced so many of these farewells that Gu Qingjiu could remain calm throughout.


After placating Yu Bao'er, they waved goodbye and brought their own bags onto their respective buses.


Because they left the camp early, it was barely noon when they arrived at the city center.


She had long informed her family that she would go back for lunch, so Qi Yuefeng should be waiting for her at home.


When she arrived downstairs, she saw a few cars parked below the building.


The car models were familiar—all Gu family's relatives.


Gu family had quite a lot of relatives and they had good relationships with each other, something that was hard to come by nowadays.


Gu Qingjiu's grandparents passed away early on, so it left the Gu family with three brothers and an elder sister.


The eldest was Gu Qingjiu's aunt, Gu Shouyan, who had a strong personality since she single-handedly raised her three younger brothers and with that, she was the backbone of Gu family.


Gu Qingjiu's father, Gu Hong, was the second child of the family.


He had two younger brothers.


The third child, Gu Li.


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The youngest, Gu He.


Within the Gu family, the three sons were all promising. His two younger brothers both had families and currently reside overseas, only coming back every New Year to visit. It was only Go Qingjiu's aunt who regularly visited their family.


But because she was adopted, Gu Qingjiu had always felt like this aunt didn't actually really like her.


On the surface, however, she would still politely treat Gu Qingjiu.


In her previous life, when she heard that her Gu parents passed on after an accident, her Great Aunt hated her more.


Which was why this familiar car parked under her apartment complex caused those memories to surge up.


In her previous life, her parents died because of her.


The reason her aunt didn't like her was that she was adopted, and she feared that she wouldn't be close to the family. Gu Qingjiu's adoptive parents treated her well, but they were also scared that if she returned to her biological parents, she would gradually forget about them.


Although Gu Qingjiu said that she was forced to return to the Yu family, her aunt did not believe her.


The Yu family was a prestigious and wealthy noble family. It was a great honor to be part of it, so who in their right mind would reject it?


The reason Gu Qingjiu knew about the hatred her aunt held for her was that it was her aunt who informed her about her adoptive parent's death when she visited her in prison.


Until then, she couldn't forget the cold piercing hatred in Gu Shouyan's eyes as she stared right at her.


As if she wanted to strangle her with her own hands.


But no one could blame her for it. No matter who it was, they wouldn't be able to accept that the younger brother they so painstakingly raised would die because of an adopted daughter.


Even if Gu Qingjiu's adoptive parents passed on because of a traffic accident, it still happened in North City.


Gu Qingjiu was in North City then, so their reason for being there would definitely be counted on Gu Qingjiu's head.


Recalling all these, Gu Qingjiu clenched her fists as her heart squeezed tight.


Now that she was back, none of what had happened in her precious life had taken place yet. Her aunt only felt slight repulsion for her as an adopted daughter, but it was not to the stage of disdain. She had to change all these!


Chapter 145: Older Sister Qingjiu, Pretty


Gu Qingjiu carried her bags as she walked to her house door.


The mini-mart downstairs was closed since Chen Yanhong's family probably went back for New Year as well.


Since her family was not around, the main entrance downstairs should be locked.


Gu Qingjiu's family could only leave from the backdoor.


Chen Yanhong was scared that the Gu family would steal things from her mini-mart.


Who would want her things!?


Gu Qingjiu frowned as she entered through the back entrance.


Actually, she didn't want to stay there.


With the Gu family's financial means, they could actually afford a bigger house.


Gu Hong was a manager of a small company. Although the company wasn't a huge one, Gu Hong expanded it single-handedly that it earned relatively well each year. The owner adored Gu Hong and gave him a salary of tens of thousands a month and a few hundred thousand yuan more of bonus each year.


In Dayi City, it was considered quite a high salary.


But then, the Gu family were not wasteful people. Dayi City's cost of living was not too high either, so the Gu family's bank account had at least a few hundred thousand yuan saved in it.


And it was considered as a well-to-do family in the local area.


But ever since Gu Hong moved to Dayi City, he was nostalgic about the old times. Moreover, the housing conditions were not bad, so he had no intention of moving houses.


The conditions were not the best, but Gu Qingmo and Gu Qingmo were not spoiled kids, so they had no complaints about it. But in the eyes of a family like the Yu's, they were only considered as an ordinary family, though.


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Hence, Gu Qingjiu didn't live extravagantly.


The Gu family enjoyed keeping a low profile.


At that moment, the familiar surroundings seemed to emit uneasiness. It was as if she did not make any changes and could only follow what her life dictates.


Entering the army was only her first step in getting away from the Yu family, but here must be more than that.


As she thought about it, she'd already reached the entrance to her house.


Gu Qingjiu repeatedly pressed on the doorbell.


Not a while later, she could hear rustling from inside.


The door opened to reveal a small, exquisite face.


She had twin braids, a snowflake designed woolen hat, and she was donned in a cute child's winter attire—looking as cute as a doll.


She was around seven to eight years old.


"Older Sister Qingjiu!"


This doll-like girl recognized Gu Qingjiu, and her eyes twinkled before rushing up to hug Gu Qingjiu's legs!


Gu Qingjiu curiously raised her brows. "Xiaoxi, you can recognize me even like this?"


This young girl was the youngest daughter of her aunt, Gu Shouyan.


She was Gu Qingjiu's youngest cousin.


Gu Shouyan had a son and a daughter. The son was about twenty-years-old.


The couple initially tried hard for another child, but they couldn't get pregnant anymore. When they finally did so, she was already thirty-seven-years old.


The whole family was elated when the child was born, for she was the daughter they had been waiting for a long time.


Because they conceived the child only when they were at an old age, they favored this daughter the most. Gu Shouyan doted on her like never before.


She educated her in her own way rather than doting on her endlessly, so Gu Xiaoxi was still respectful and mature for her age.


And Gu Xiaoxi liked Gu Qingjiu a lot.


While Gu Qingjiu loved this child, too.


Energetic, cute, respectful, and good with words, she was a treasure!


Gu Qingjiu did not expect Gu Xiaoxi to recognize her in an instance!


"Because Older Sister Qingjiu is pretty!"


Chapter 146: Family Members, Gathered Together (1)


Just after she had said that the child was good with words, Gu Xiaoxi's words made her feel all warm and fuzzy inside.


Gu Qingjiu smiled widely and carried Gu Xiaoxi up with an arm while the other dragged her luggage in.


The living room was still arranged in a familiar way. Father Gu and Great Aunt's husband, Yao Liguo, were chit-chatting on the sofa as they watched the television.


When they saw Gu Qingjiu enter, shock colored Yao Liguo's face. "This is... Qingjiu?"


Gu Qingjiu nodded as she smiled. "Great Uncle, I'm Qingjiu. It's been a long time."


He was a straightforward person who preferred not talking much.


In the family, Gu Shouyan was the one with a stronger personality.


"Isn't this change too drastic?" Gu Hong smiled from the side. "To have changed this much from staying three months in the army was something we didn't expect as well."


A tinge of pride was laced within his tone.


Yao Liguo sized Gu Qingjiu up. Seeing her perfect posture even as Gu Xiaoxi were on her arms, her eyes were bright but determined, and her entire form seemed to emit confidence unlike that of the gloom from before. He nodded his head in satisfaction before he praised. "Gu Hong, not withholding the fact that she made the right choice, her entire aura seemed to have changed, too!"


Yao Liguo stuck his thumb up and at this moment, Gu Shouyan walked out from the kitchen.


She was already forty-five years old and time has left obvious traces on her face.


But she maintained herself well, so it wasn't showing too badly.


Because she had to lead the employees in her company, her facial features appeared a little cold and strict, even with her pursed lips.


She was clad in a navy blue jacket paired with a long dress of the same color. Her stockings were nude, and her black stilettos clicked on the floor. Around her neck was a pearl necklace.


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Within that exquisiteness, a trace of an unforgiving nature seemed to exude through.


She looked like a career woman.


When Gu Qingjiu saw Gu Shouyan, her heart clenched a little.


Perhaps it was because the last time she saw Gu Shouyan, she was glaring at her with hatred. The present Gu Qingjiu frowned slightly, and she looked amicable.


But unlike her usual self, Gu Qingjiu greeted loudly, "Great Aunt!"


This greeting made her feel a little guilty for some reason.


She remembered how magnificent and collected her Great Aunt was, but her bright and glorious persona crumbled down to a haggard state when she next saw her in the jail.


Gu Shouyan eyed Gu Qingjiu and a trace of shock flashed across her old-fashioned eyes before she looked at Gu Xiaoxi. "Hmph. Looks like your strength improved, too. I guess it wasn't completely useless for you to join the army."


To carry Gu Xiaoxi with a single arm was something the Gu Qingjiu in the past would never be able to do.


Since she couldn't tell if it was a compliment or an insult, Gu Qingjiu lowered her head slightly and awkwardly laughed as if not knowing how to reply.


"It's the new year. Can you not treat this child like how you scold your employees? You're scaring her!"


Yao Liguo stood up to defend Gu Qingjiu.


Gu Hong laughed casually. "Older Sister has always been this way. It's probably Qingjiu, who hasn't seen her for a long time, who is not used to it. Kids are all like this. Qingjiu put down your luggage. We will go shopping with Great Aunt and her family."


Gu Qingjiu nodded and placed Gu Xiaoxi down. "Okay!"


Gu Xiaoxi immediately tugged on Gu Qingjiu's wrist. "Older Sister Qingjiu, I want to follow. I wanna see your room, too!"


Usually, when she wasn't around, Mother Gu wouldn't allow anyone to enter Gu Qingjiu's room.


Chapter 147: Family Members, Gathered Together (2)


"Sure."


Gu Qingjiu smiled as she slightly kneeled down and caressed her cute little face.


She brought Gu Xiaoxi in as she unpacked her bags.


When Gu Xiaoxi entered Gu Qingjiu's room, she curiously looked around.


But she simply looked and did not touch anything.


An obedient and mature child.


Gu Qingjiu unpacked the clothes which she initially brought to the camp and kept them.


She always cleaned her clothes properly, so even if she did not wear them, she could easily donate them to charity organizations.


After she had stayed in the camp for a long time, she had a slight OCD when stacking things.


For example, the blanket which Qi Yuefeng placed on her bed for her, Gu Qingjiu had to take it out and fold it again into a neat square.


But because of the difference in the material of this blanket and the one used in the army, the square was not very uniform.


Gu Xiaoxi looked from the side with twinkling eyes.


"What. Older Sister Qingjiu, you folded it so nicely!"


Children always expressed their amazement at such neat things.


Gu Qingjiu laughed lightly. After she had unpacked, she looked at Gu Xiaoxi and said, "I have a computer here, do you want to play?"


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Gu Xiaoxi shook her head before replying softly, "Mom does not allow me to."


It startled Gu Qingjiu.


Gu Xiaoxi was her Great Aunt's favorite, but for some things, she would definitely not excessively spoil her.


For things like food, or things to wear and use, she would always buy expensive things for Gu Xiaoxi. For entertainment purposes, she had things like tablets, computers, and a laptop, but she had an allocated time to use them.


And it was governed strictly.


The reason Gu Xiaoxi behaved so well was tied with Great Aunt's teaching methods.


She had to admit that when it came to educating her children, Great Aunt was fully capable.


Since she said she couldn't play, Gu Qingjiu would not try to coax her to play, too.


If she broke Great Aunt's rules, she might get scolded.


Besides her things from the past, there was basically nothing interesting in her room.


After unpacking, Gu Qingjiu brought Gu Xiaoxi out.


From the living room, Gu Qingjiu heard the exciting sounds of a multi-kill from her older brother's room.


She walked to Gu Qingmo's room and pushed the door open.


Gu Qingmo's room looked similar to Gu Qingjiu's room. The theme color was sky blue, but he had arranged the furniture differently.


Seated in front of the computer table beside the bed were two people, one of whom was Gu Qingmo while the other was Gu Qingjiu's older cousin, Great Aunt's son, Yao Yanshen.


And it was worth mentioning that Great Aunt's son followed his father's surname, while Xiaoxi followed Great Aunt's surname.


Gu Qingmo was playing with his computer while her cousin was fiddling with his tablet.


One of them was clad in a black jacket while the other was in a gray jacket.


Hearing the sound of the door opening, they didn't bother to look who it was for they were so engrossed in their games.


Gu Qingjiu called out softly, "Older brother! Cousin!"


Hearing her call, both turned around. Seeing that it was Gu Qingjiu, Gu Qingmo didn't have a big reaction. "Oh, you're back?"


After that, he turned his head back to the screen.


Rather, it was Yao Yanshen who revealed a shock expression upon seeing Gu Qingjiu.


Gu Qingjiu's change essentially shocked everyone in the family.


Yao Yanshen stared at Gu Qingjiu as he gaped visibly. "Qing... Qingjiu?"


Gu Qingjiu nodded as she smiled teasingly at her older cousin. "You don't have to be this shocked."


Gu Qingmo didn't give Yao Yanshen a chance to continue being shocked. He tugged on his sleeves as he urged Yao Yanshen, "Come back, don't ditch me!"


No matter how shocked Yao Yanshen, he could only hold it back and return to his game first.


Chapter 148: Family Members, Gathered Together (3)


The Gu family's genetics were not bad.


Yao Yanshen, who took after Great Aunt, had good looks as well.


He was the same handsome city boy like how Gu Qingmo was.


But this older cousin was like her great aunt—he treated the members of the Gu family pretty well, but towards Gu Qingjiu he wasn't as affectionate.


For Gu Qingmo, it was because he had regarded Gu Qingjiu as his true younger sister that he doted on her, but Yao Yanshen who rarely saw much of Gu Qingjiu didn't feel as deeply towards her.


He didn't give much regard to this younger cousin in name.


Even back then, Gu Qingjiu could feel that people like Yao Yanshen liked to interact with pretty girls; wooden girls like Gu Qingjiu didn't much catch his fancy.


Gu Qingjiu could laugh away the matters of the past now, but she remembered that back then she felt upset for quite some time because Yao Yanshen disliked her.


Perhaps Gu Qingjiu wasn't used to being repulsed that way.


Because in the past, when Gu Qingjiu tried to speak with Yao Yanshen, the latter would ignore her.


Especially since at that time, he was at a rebellious and carefree age and in his second year in high school.


Because they rarely met, only a few times a year, Gu Qingjiu never told her family about this.


Seeing Yao Yanshen's shocked reaction, she understood why he was behaving this way.


It's undeniable that most people are after the visuals only.


When she returned to the living room, her great aunt walked out again.


Seeing Gu Qingjiu, she took the initiative to speak to her, which was pretty rare. "You need to return to the troops after a week, don't you?"


Gu Qingjiu nodded. "Yes."


"I heard that one needs to stay in the troops for two years and isn't allowed to go home." Gu Shouyan had a thoughtful look on her face. "You sure you've decided? It's not so easy to spend two years in the troops. You can't even return home once, so you won't be seeing your family for two years. Even if you can endure it, have you thought about your parents' feelings?"


There was an indistinct sternness in her voice.


Gu Qingjiu knew her great aunt was reproaching her.


Standing from her younger brother and his wife's viewpoints, she didn't wish to see Gu Qingjiu join the military.


Gu Qingjiu kept quiet for several seconds, subtle darkness flashing across her eyes before she raised her head again. She replied, "Great Aunt, I've discussed it with my parents. It's only for just two years."


If she could enter the advanced training camp, it might be longer than two years.


But she said nothing about that.


Gu Qingjiu gazed at Gu Shouyan, not at all feeling any pressure as they both locked eyes.


There was a resolute look in her gaze.


Gu Shouyan was a senior executive in a foreign company and was a leader who had the effect of making others feel pressured at work.


When she was with the Gu family, she was also the big sister whose words were non-negotiable. When her expression turned cold, there weren't many people who didn't fear her.


In the past Gu Qingjiu was afraid of her, too.


But never mind those things she had been through—she already had to put up with the Chief Instructor in the military. Hence, facing her great aunt, she didn't feel the slightest bit of pressure.


Seeing Gu Qingjiu look straight into her eyes with a resolute gaze, Gu Shouyan's brow slightly furrowed.


Her lips had just slightly parted, and she was about to speak when Gu Hong interrupted.


"Qingjiu, your great aunt is just saying that out of concern. No need to take her so seriously. Whatever your decision is, you have our support."


He was clearly helping Gu Qingjiu out of this predicament, and also his way of getting Gu Shouyan to stop talking about it.


Hearing Gu Hong's words, Gu Qingjiu responded with a 'yes.'


Next to them, Yao Liguo tried to be a mediator as well.


"The child has her own choice. Stop talking about this. It's New Year, don't make everyone unhappy."


Chapter 149: Family Members, Gathered Together (4)


Gu Shouyan wasn't mad upon hearing her husband and younger brother's words, but she darted her gaze towards Gu Qingjiu.


Sitting on a single-seater sofa next to Gu Hong, Gu Qingjiu started paring fruits.


Gu Xiaoxi pounced over and grabbed Gu Qingjiu's legs. "Sister, I want to eat that."


Gu Qingjiu nodded and moved her away. "Okay, Sister will prepare it for you. But you shouldn't stay so close to Sister because I'm holding a knife. You might get hurt by accident."


Gu Xiaoxi obediently nodded, and she then retreated two steps.


After Gu Qingjiu had cut the apple, she handed half to Gu Xiaoxi.


By then, lunch was nearly ready. Qi Yuefeng, who was carrying the dishes from the kitchen, glanced at Gu Qingjiu and threw her a look.


Gu Qingjiu immediately followed her to the kitchen.


"We told your great aunt about you joining the military earlier in the morning. She disagrees as well; hence, whatever your great aunt says later, just let her be. In any case, we still support your decision, if that's what you really want."


Perhaps Qi Yuefeng heard Gu Shouyan's words when she was in the kitchen earlier on.


The corners of Gu Qingjiu's lips arched up; listening to such heartwarming words warmed up her heart.


"Mm. Mom, I know."


She helped bring out the utensils and bowls, and Gu Xiaoxi too bounced away to call Gu Qingmo and Yao Yanshen for lunch.


...


"Aiyoh. Qingjiu truly underwent a great transformation in the military!"


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At the dining table, Yao Yanshen exclaimed such a sentence. In the past, he pretty much ignored Gu Qingjiu, but now he even took the initiative to talk about her.


Humans are like that. Gu Qingjiu secretly mused in her heart; but then, she didn't feel it was wrong or anything.


He was merely superficial.


And he wasn't abominable or anything. After all, there wasn't any feud between him and Gu Qingjiu.


"I'm so sick of hearing this."


Gu Qingmo laughed exaggeratedly as she looked towards Gu Qingjiu.


Gu Qingjiu smiled lightly but said nothing.


However, after he had said that line, the topic quickly switched to something else at the dining table.


It was something Gu Qingjiu was concerned about too—Gu Qingmo's girlfriend.


Her great aunt's husband was the one who brought it up.


Hearing his girlfriend mentioned, Gu Qingmo smiled involuntarily. "Great Uncle, soon. I estimate she'll be back during summer break, and I can then bring her home. Let me tell you guys, my girlfriend is pretty, sensible, and capable!"


"Look at you, at the mention of your girlfriend you're grinning from ear to ear," Qi Yuefeng said. "Since she's so capable, why aren't you even showing Mom a photo when I asked for it?"


Gu Qingmo had even asked Gu Qingjiu to help him hide the fact that he had a girlfriend. But then again, he was still the one who couldn't hold himself back from hiding from his parents when he called his girlfriend at home. It was Gu Hong who first sensed it, and in the end, Gu Qingmo confessed about his girlfriend.


Gu Hong knowing such a secret was equivalent to the entire Gu family knowing.


Hence, even his great uncle asked about it.


"Mom, my girlfriend is a little shy. I've just started dating her, so it's a little inappropriate to send you her photo now. Just wait a little longer. I think I can bring her back home soon and introduce you guys to her during the summer break."


Gu Qingmo was at an appropriate age to be dating, so his family supported his doing so as well. Qi Yuefeng was naturally curious about how his son's girlfriend looked.


But she couldn't do anything about it since her son refused to show her photo.


At the dining table, after Gu Qingjiu's topic passed, they began teasing Gu Qingmo.


Even the usually stern Gu Shouyan wore a smile on her face.


Looking at their smiley faces, Gu Qingjiu felt satisfaction in her heart.


Days like this were truly wonderful.


Chapter 150: You... You're Gu Qingjiu?


After the meal, Gu Qingmo, Yao Yanshen, and Gu Xiaoxi went to see a movie.


Gu Qingjiu didn't really want to go, but Gu Qingmo had already bought her ticket way in advance.


Gu Xiaoxi pestered Gu Qingjiu to go, too. Hence, she couldn't say no.


And with that, Gu Qingjiu had no choice but to return to her room for a change of clothes.


Changing out of her military uniform, Gu Qingjiu put on a thin and loose down jacket and a pair of tight-fitting black pants, and lastly, a pair of fur boots. Although she wore two sweaters underneath, she didn't appear swollen.


Even without makeup, her exquisite face appeared fair, lovely, and youthful-looking. It was a great difference from the Gu Qingjiu of the past.


Because she had short hair, Gu Qingmo even put his baseball hat on her.


It was rather weird to be wearing such a hat during winter, but one couldn't deny that with a good-looking face like hers, it didn't matter what she put on.


Yao Yanshen silently lamented. In the past, he wouldn't use words such as 'good-looking' on Gu Qingjiu.


The four of them quickly went out.


In the afternoon, Qi Yuefeng wanted to go to a teahouse nearby with some people, whereas Gu Hong and the others drove Gu Qingjiu and her group to the cinema.


When they got out of the car, Qi Yuefeng reminded Gu Qingjiu, "Take good care of Xiaoxi. Whatever she wants to eat, buy it for her."


With Gu Xiaoxi in her arms, Gu Qingjiu nodded with a smile, then waved Qi Yuefeng and the rest goodbye.


Although the New Year's mood wasn't so intense anymore, on such a day, there were still plenty of people who came out to play.


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The city center was the most lively and prosperous place in a city and since the New Year's spirit still lingered, the place had a festive spirit amidst all the red decorations. Even the streets were crowded with people coming and going.


Yu Bao'er lived in the city center, so Gu Qingjiu called Yu Bao'er after getting out of the car.


Yu Bao'er quickly picked up. The instant she was invited to come out to play, she readily agreed. The coincidental thing was, Yu Bao'er and her group were coming to the cinema to watch a movie, too. It was just that it was a different movie from the one Gu Qingjiu and her party was going for.


That was right, it was them.


Yu Bao'er had several companions with her.


There was half an hour until the movie started. Gu Qingmo led the group to an eatery near the cinema, and they ordered milk tea for them while they waited.


The eatery was filled with people.


Gu Qingjiu and her party were lucky to snag a table the minute they entered.


As Gu Qingjiu sat there, she played with her phone. Seeing this, Gu Xiaoxi also wanted to play games on her phone, so Qingjiu had no choice but to help her set up the game. While doing such, she felt that someone was sizing her up from the side.


With brows furrowed, she turned her vision towards the pair of eyes looking at her after she had helped Gu Xiaoxi.


She was astonished to see that it was her class monitor, Zhong Xiaoxiao.


Ever since she was reborn, Gu Qingjiu didn't have a deep impression of her classmates. Besides, she had only spent a few short days in class, whereas she had already spent nearly three months in the troops.


If she hadn't run into Zhong Xiaoxiao, Gu Qingjiu would have nearly forgotten her old classmates.


Zhong Xiaoxiao, who was staring at her, had an astonished look in her clear eyes, looking as if she dared not confirm it was her.


Although Gu Qingjiu's transformation was rather great, if one looked carefully she still had the same features as before.


It was no wonder why Zhong Xiaoxiao didn't dare confirm it was her.


Staring back, Gu Qingjiu, who found it amusing, spoke up first. "Class Monitor, you came here to have fun, too?"


With this, Zhong Xiaoxiao widened her eyes and was so shocked she nearly bit off her own tongue.


"You... You're Gu Qingjiu?"

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