Chapter Twenty-One: The Gift

(I)

Bian Xiaoqi walked into her home and found, as expected, that her mother, Jiang Sumei, had returned from Beijing and was sitting in the living room watching television.

Happily, she sat down beside her mother, hugged her arm, and smiled, "Mom, you’re back so soon? Did you have a good time in Beijing?"

Looking at her beaming daughter, Jiang Sumei laughed, "I’ve been away for nearly a month. Do you think I came back too early? It seems you’ve been doing just fine and don’t need your mother anymore."

"Mom, I have indeed been happy. I signed two contracts, the equipment has been delivered and put into use, the payments have been collected, and I even received a generous bonus," she reported to Jiang Sumei with excitement.

"Anything else?" Jiang Sumei pressed.

"That's all," she replied, feigning indifference.

"Did Qin Ke come to Xizhou again? And did he come to the house?" Seeing her put on an act, Jiang Sumei asked directly.

"Oh! Mom, do you have clairvoyance? Nothing gets past you," she exclaimed in surprise.

"No one knows a daughter better than her mother. Your eyes told me," Jiang Sumei said, looking at her.

"Mom, Qin Ke did come to Xizhou, and he came to help me. If it weren't for his help, I could never have completed the equipment installation and payment collection in Northern Sichuan so quickly," she answered truthfully, then added, "I did invite him to our home. He made noodles for me, but he didn't stay the night."

"At least you were honest and didn't break your promises. Your father and I weren't home, the housekeeper doesn't come to cook, and you don't know how to cook. I saw that the bag of noodles in the kitchen was half empty, and I also saw the 'Long Xiang Si' poem that Qin Ke wrote."

"Mom, you went into my room and looked through my things again."

"I did it out of concern for you. In a few decades, you won't have a mother left to worry about you. By the way, how do you plan to spend your bonus? Tell your mother."

"Mom, you and Dad have raised me for over twenty years, providing for my education and all my extracurricular lessons, spending a huge amount of money and effort. In the past, I earned little and couldn't help you even if I wanted to, but now that I'm earning money, it's my turn to show my filial piety. I'm giving you ten thousand yuan."

"That’s more like it. It’s good to know you appreciate your parents' sacrifices. What about the rest?"

"Mom, I’m going to the headquarters of Company A in Hedong in two days to report on my work, and while I'm at it, I’ll go with Qin Ke to visit his hometown. I want to buy some gifts for his parents. Also, Qin Ke’s younger sister, Qin Yan, got into T University this year, and I plan to buy her a laptop."

"A child from a rural area getting into T University—that’s not easy! It’s truly something to be happy about," Jiang Sumei remarked.

"Mom, I’m also curious about how a farming family managed to raise such outstanding university students. What kind of gifts should I buy? Could you please give me some advice?"

"Don't worry about how expensive they are; just make sure they are practical. You’re smart enough to know what to buy."

"Mom, there’s one more thing I need to tell you. Qin Ke has received an offer from Company C in Beijing with a monthly salary of nearly ten thousand yuan. He’s starting there at the beginning of September."

"What are your plans for the next step?"

"Mom, I’m going to resign and move to Beijing as well."

"What kind of work do you want to do in Beijing? I saw your aunt in Beijing this time, and she asked about you."

"I’m not relying on anyone in Beijing; I’m relying on myself. If Qin Ke can find a job he likes, I can too. I believe in my own abilities, and I hope you will believe in your daughter, too."

"I do believe in your abilities. But wouldn't it be more convenient to have a relative there? Your aunt is family, after all."

"Mom, are you agreeing to let me go to Beijing?" Bian Xiaoqi asked, snuggling up to Jiang Sumei.

"Even if I didn't agree, would it matter? You’ve grown up so much, but you’ve never been away from your father and me for this long. I’m worried you won’t be able to take care of yourself. It’s always best to be at home; every day away is a struggle," Jiang Sumei said, tenderly stroking her hair.

"Mom, I can take care of myself. Plus, I’ll have Qin Ke. And I’ll come back to see you often," she said, feeling her mother's love.

"Xiaoqi, you have the right to pursue your own happiness, but remember: a woman must have her own career. Never depend on any man, even if he is your husband," Jiang Sumei said solemnly.

"Mom, I’ve taken your words to heart. Your daughter will definitely be independent and strong," she said firmly.

(II)

The next morning at eight, Bian Xiaoqi called Qin Ke first, telling him she had things to attend to and could only meet in the afternoon. Then, she called Shen Jing. Shen Jing was clearly still asleep and grumbled, "I say, Miss High and Mighty, what time is it that you’re bothering me? Don’t you know I’m a night owl?"

"Sister Jing, please, get up! Let’s go shopping together. My treat for lunch—order whatever you want," Bian Xiaoqi pleaded, changing her usual tone.

"You’re being nice for no reason; there must be a catch. Tell me, what do you want?" Shen Jing asked.

"Sister Jing, I want to buy a laptop and some clothes, and I need your advice," Bian Xiaoqi said.

"Didn't you just buy a computer last year? A new laptop costs over ten thousand yuan; that’s too extravagant. Did you strike it rich?"

Bian Xiaoqi then told Shen Jing about her bonus.

"Then I’m definitely going to take advantage of your generosity today. Let’s meet at the computer mall in an hour." Shen Jing, now energized, got up quickly to get ready.

The computer mall was located in the most prosperous part of Xizhou, surrounded by high-rise buildings, wide streets, and bustling crowds. Bian Xiaoqi wore a white dress and carried an exquisite black handbag. Shen Jing was in a blue dress, carrying a stylish white bag. Both beauties wore sunglasses, their long hair flowing, looking poised and elegant. They inadvertently became a beautiful sight on the busy streets of Xizhou, causing many passersby to stop and stare.

One of Shen Jing’s childhood friends ran a brand-name computer store, and the two walked in, chatting and laughing. When beauties visit, they naturally get the best prices. Following Shen Jing’s advice, Bian Xiaoqi chose a laptop of the same brand and color as the one at home, but with the highest specifications, costing twelve thousand yuan. She also picked out a small, pretty portable music player suitable for a young girl, which cost five hundred yuan. After testing, both devices worked perfectly. Carrying their purchases, they then headed to the city's largest department store.

Bian Xiaoqi wandered near the middle-aged and elderly autumn and winter clothing section, her attention fixed on mid-range, plain-styled, but thick and warm cashmere sweaters.

Shen Jing asked, "Xiaoqi, are you buying these for Aunt Jiang and Uncle Bian? These styles are too old-fashioned."

Bian Xiaoqi replied, "Sister Jing, these aren't for my parents."

Shen Jing, being quick-witted, immediately understood and laughed, "You’re not buying these for Qin Ke’s parents, are you?"

Bian Xiaoqi nodded and smilingly told Shen Jing about her plan to visit Qin Ke’s hometown.

Shen Jing sighed, "You’re already acting like a daughter-in-law before you’re even married."

"Love, you are truly magical; you’ve captured my beautiful, proud little sister so easily," Shen Jing teased, as if reciting poetry.

"Sister Jing, it’s very sweet," Bian Xiaoqi said, trying to provoke her.

"I’m not jealous," Shen Jing laughed.

"That’s only because you haven't met an outstanding man worth giving up your single life for," Bian Xiaoqi teased her back.

"Oh! Where are you? Come and take away this beautiful, enthusiastic, and generous Sister Jing of yours!" Bian Xiaoqi mimicked Shen Jing’s tone.

Watching the two sisters play around, the salesgirl was amused and gave Bian Xiaoqi several discounts. In the end, following the sizes Qin Ke had provided, she bought a gray cashmere sweater for his father and a dark red one for his mother.

They then moved to the section for young women. Shen Jing pointed to a light beige suit and said, "Now that you’ve earned money, a girl should dress up. I think this outfit suits you perfectly."

"Okay, I’ll listen to you, Sister Jing. Let’s buy it." Bian Xiaoqi trusted Shen Jing’s taste.

She also bought a pair of blue jeans, a denim jacket, and a white pullover based on her own size.

Shen Jing helped her carry the bags, saying, "I say, little sister, are you trying to buy out the store? You’re being way too good to yourself. But this isn't your style; you never wear denim jackets."

Bian Xiaoqi laughed, "Sister Jing, these aren't for me; they’re for Qin Ke’s younger sister, Qin Yan. She just got into T University this year."

Shen Jing said with a touch of jealousy, "With a sister-in-law like you, this Qin Yan is so lucky. I wish I had a sister-in-law like you, but too bad I don't have a brother. I suppose the laptop and the music player are for her, too?"

Bian Xiaoqi nodded again and smiled, "Such a smart girl deserves all of this. Who knows, maybe I’ll benefit from her success in the future as her sister-in-law."

"My dear sister, aren't you embarrassed? We’re not even there yet, and you’re already calling yourself her sister-in-law. God! Are all women caught in the whirlwind of love this crazy?" Shen Jing teased her while sighing dramatically.

"Haha!" Bian Xiaoqi hugged Shen Jing, laughing until she doubled over at her friend's exaggerated expressions.

"No way, you’re spending so much money on his sister, I’m hurt. So, for lunch, I’m definitely not going to be polite," Shen Jing said, pretending to be angry.

"Okay, okay, my dear Sister Jing, to soothe your wounded heart, we’ll eat wherever you want, without hesitation," Bian Xiaoqi laughed.

At noon, they went to a French restaurant on the top floor of the Xizhou Mansion, the highest building in the city. They sat by the window, looking out over the entire city of Xizhou. The restaurant was quiet, with gentle music playing in the background. The two beautiful young women sat across from each other, elegantly sipping French red wine and cutting into Australian filet mignon, enjoying the delicious food and the view.

"Sister Jing, I’m leaving Xizhou for Beijing soon," Bian Xiaoqi said, holding up her glass.

"I’m not surprised at all. After your crazy shopping spree this morning, nothing you decide would surprise me," Shen Jing said, swirling her wine and smiling.

"It’s a pity I won't be able to go shopping or eat with you often," Bian Xiaoqi said with a touch of sadness, then added, "Sister Jing, I’ll come back to Xizhou often. Besides, I can invite you to come to Beijing to visit."

"Xiaoqi, I sincerely wish you the best. Your future is limitless, but don't forget your old friend here." Shen Jing finished her wine in one gulp.

"Sister Jing, we will always be best friends, now and in the future." Bian Xiaoqi also drained her glass.

(III)

After saying goodbye to Shen Jing, Bian Xiaoqi returned home with her bags. Professor Bian Guoning had also returned from Shanghai. Seeing his daughter breathless, he laughed, "Xiaoqi, today isn't a special occasion, so what’s with all this heavy shopping?"

She smiled, "Dear Professor Bian, I’m flying to Hedong tomorrow. Since you’re back, you can see me off."

Bian Guoning looked at Jiang Sumei and said, "It’s been less than a month, and Xiaoqi and Qin Ke’s relationship has progressed this quickly?"

"There’s more to come—next month, you and I will be empty-nesters," Jiang Sumei replied.

"What do you mean? Is Xiaoqi getting married?" Bian Guoning asked in surprise.

"Dad, what are you thinking? Not that fast! At least three years from now; that’s what Mom decided," Bian Xiaoqi said, feeling embarrassed.

"Your father is busy with his own affairs all day; he doesn't know how to care about his daughter anymore," Jiang Sumei complained, then turned to Bian Xiaoqi, "Xiaoqi, why don't you ask Qin Ke to come over for dinner tonight?"

"Mom, that’s a great idea," Bian Xiaoqi said happily.

Bian Xiaoqi called Qin Ke, who was at the office chatting with Luo Tong. Luo Tong had finished the technical training in Tongyuan and returned to Xizhou last night. Qin Ke had tried to give two hundred of his eight-hundred-yuan reward from Zhou Pinyi to Luo Tong and one hundred to Sun Shuqiang, but both adamantly refused, saying it was Qin Ke’s achievement and they didn't deserve it. Qin Ke insisted on sharing the rewards, and finally, Luo Tong used that three hundred yuan to treat Qin Ke to lunch, which settled their mutual modesty.

Luo Tong was now officially the technical manager for the Southwest region of Company A. Knowing that Qin Ke would resign and leave for Beijing after returning to Hedong, he used the spare time to ask Qin Ke for advice on technical issues. Qin Ke shared his experiences and problem-solving strategies from his time in Shanxi, Henan, and Northern Sichuan, leaving Luo Tong in awe. Luo Tong lamented that if he had faced the same problems, he wouldn't have been able to solve them as quickly or effectively. Qin Ke comforted him, saying there was plenty of time, and he would definitely succeed.

When Bian Xiaoqi arrived at the office, she greeted Luo Tong, "Luo Tong, you’ve worked hard in Tongyuan. Congratulations on your promotion to technical manager of the Southwest region."

Luo Tong laughed, "Manager Bian, I’m not worthy; I’m still far behind Brother Qin and need to keep learning from him."

"Good, humility leads to progress. Luo Tong, you’ll definitely do well," Bian Xiaoqi teased and encouraged him.

"Oh, Brother Qin just said the same thing. Are you two in sync?" Luo Tong joked, laughing.

The three of them burst into laughter.

After booking their flight to Haiyuan for the next day, Bian Xiaoqi and Qin Ke said goodbye to Luo Tong and headed to her house.

Qin Ke wanted to buy some wine, but she stopped him, saying Professor Bian had plenty of wine and there was no need, which made Qin Ke feel warm inside.

Upon arriving home, Bian Xiaoqi told Jiang Sumei and Bian Guoning, "Dad, Mom, Qin Ke wanted to buy gifts for you, but I stopped him."

Bian Guoning laughed, "Xiaoqi, you’re not even married yet, and you’re already showing favoritism."

Bian Xiaoqi immediately said, "Dad, I’m going to Hedong tomorrow, so you have to give me two bottles of your wine."

"Sumei, look at this, she’s already taking things out of the house. Is she really my daughter?" Bian Guoning joked to Jiang Sumei.

"I’m already starting to get used to it," Jiang Sumei laughed.

At the dinner table, Qin Ke formally reported his next steps to the two professors, and Bian Xiaoqi did the same.

Bian Guoning said, "Young people should have ideals and fighting spirit. Go out into the world, explore, and achieve something that makes you proud. This will always be your home; this is your base."

Jiang Sumei said, "You two are both going to be far from your parents, so be sure to care for and support each other, and discuss things together."

Qin Ke said, "Uncle Bian, Aunt Jiang, being loved by Xiaoqi is the greatest honor of my life. Loving Xiaoqi is my lifelong responsibility."

Bian Xiaoqi, however, said, "I can finally fly away and don't have to listen to Mom and Dad’s nagging anymore."

The two professors laughed heartily at her words.

After dinner, Bian Guoning brought out two bottles of Luzhou Laojiao for Qin Ke to take to his father. Jiang Sumei brought out a piece of newly purchased blue wool fabric for Qin Ke to take to his parents so they could have coats made to their own measurements.

Qin Ke thanked them repeatedly.

After seeing Qin Ke off, Bian Xiaoqi started packing her luggage.

Seeing her wandering near his wine cabinet again, Bian Guoning said, "Why don't you take two bottles of Jiannanchun as well?"

Bian Xiaoqi hugged his arm and smiled, "Thank you, Dad."

"Xiaoqi, there are two bottles of Wuliangye missing from my storage room. Did you take those, too?"

"Dad, you knew? I thought you didn't keep track of your wine. Well, thank you for those as well, Dad," Bian Xiaoqi said, acting spoiled.

"Haha, you little rascal, I’m not senile yet," Bian Guoning said, tapping her forehead with affection.

Jiang Sumei walked over and said, "Xiaoqi, you said you wanted to give us ten thousand yuan. We appreciate your filial heart, but we don't need it. Keep it for yourself."

"Mom, you’re so nice, better and more generous than Dad. Dad is so stingy," Bian Xiaoqi said, hugging her arm and smiling sweetly.

The elderly couple couldn't help but laugh at her antics.

Finally, Bian Xiaoqi packed two suitcases—a large one that had to be checked and a smaller one to take on the plane.