Time flies, and in the blink of an eye, Li Jianguo and I have entered our twilight years. Looking back on the past feels like yesterday, yet it also seems like a lifetime ago.
That day, I was busy in the kitchen preparing dinner for the family. Suddenly, a burst of cheerful laughter from the yard interrupted my thoughts. I set down what I was doing, wiped my hands, and walked to the window.
There were my two mischievous grandsons playing tag in the yard, their joyful voices ringing out. Da Bao's wife, Xiao Fang, sat in a wicker chair, knitting a sweater while smiling at the children as they played.
Seeing this warm scene filled my heart with a surge of warmth. Over the years, our family has grown larger and larger, with children and grandchildren all around us, each living happily.
Da Bao has now become an outstanding engineer and is highly valued at his workplace. He married the virtuous Xiao Fang and blessed me with two lovely grandsons. Every time I see their family together in harmony, I feel an immense sense of satisfaction.
Er Bao chose to enlist in the military and has become a proud soldier. His wife is a gentle and kind elementary school teacher. Last year, they welcomed a lively and adorable daughter, adding even more joy to our big family.
As for my youngest daughter, Xiao Yu, she inherited my culinary talent and has become an excellent chef. Now she runs a bustling restaurant in the city. Every time I visit her restaurant and see her busy yet happy demeanor, I feel proud of her.
Although the children have their own families now, they remain very filial, often coming back to visit me and Li Jianguo. During holidays, they always bring their families back for reunions, filling our home with laughter and joy.
Just as I was lost in these memories, I heard Li Jianguo's voice behind me: "Lin Xiaohui, what are you thinking about?"
I turned around to see Li Jianguo standing at the kitchen door with a gentle smile on his face. Though time has left its marks on him, to me, he still looks like the handsome young man he once was.
"I was thinking how truly happy we are," I replied with a smile.
Li Jianguo walked over and gently took my hand. "Yes, we really are happy. Having spent so many years together watching our children grow up and now having lovely grandchildren, I feel there is nothing more I could wish for."
Hearing this, my eyes couldn't help but well up with tears. Li Jianguo and I exchanged smiles, and deep affection shone in our eyes. We had weathered the storms of life together, supporting and encouraging each other, becoming each other's strongest pillar of support.
"By the way, the children are coming back for dinner tonight. What are you planning to cook?" Li Jianguo asked.
I smiled and replied, "I plan to make a few signature dishes: Braised Lion's Head, Sweet and Sour Ribs, steamed bass, and Stir-Fried Tomatoes and Eggs, which the children love the most."
"Then I'll help you with the vegetables," Li Jianguo said as he moved to assist.
I quickly stopped him, saying, "You really shouldn't help; last time you nearly dismantled the kitchen. Why don't you go play with the grandkids in the yard? They love listening to your stories."
Li Jianguo shook his head with a smile and turned to walk toward the yard. Watching his back, my heart was filled with happiness and gratitude.
Just as I was about to continue cooking, the doorbell rang suddenly. I wiped my hands and went to open the door. Standing outside was Xiaoyu, her face beaming with a joyful smile.
"Mom, I have great news to tell you!" Xiaoyu exclaimed excitedly.
"What is it?" I asked curiously.
Xiaoyu smiled mysteriously and gently touched her belly. "I'm pregnant!"
Upon hearing this news, I widened my eyes in surprise, momentarily at a loss for words. I tightly embraced Xiaoyu, tears streaming down my face uncontrollably.
"That's wonderful, Xiaoyu! You're going to be a mom!" I said excitedly.
Xiaoyu's eyes turned red as she said, "Yes, Mom. Now I truly understand how you felt back then. I will take good care of my children just like you did."
I stroked Xiaoyu's head, my heart filled with pride and comfort. Watching my daughter about to become a mother reminded me of my own parents. Though they are in another world, I believe they would be proud of me.
That evening, the whole family gathered together to celebrate Xiaoyu's good news. Looking at the table full of dishes and hearing the laughter of my family, I felt an immense happiness. I glanced around and saw the joyful smiles on everyone's faces, filling my heart with gratitude.
I couldn't help but remember the day I crossed into this world. Back then, I was lonely and helpless, filled with fear and confusion about the future. But now, I have a happy and complete family, a loving husband, understanding children, and adorable grandchildren. I am deeply thankful to fate for giving me this opportunity to come to this world and gain new family and a new life.
As I looked at the warm and harmonious scene before me, I knew that not only had I changed the fate of my children, but I had also changed my own destiny. I cherish everything I have now and every moment spent with my family.
As night deepened, the children gradually said their goodbyes and went home. Li Jianguo and I stood at the door, watching them leave. The night breeze gently brushed against us, carrying a faint fragrance of flowers. Leaning on Li Jianguo's shoulder, I softly said, "Jianguo, thank you for giving me such a wonderful life."
Li Jianguo wrapped his arm around my shoulders and gently replied, "Lin Xiaohui, it should be me thanking you. You made my life so beautiful; you gave me this happy home."
We exchanged smiles, fingers intertwined, slowly walking back home. In the night, our figures gradually blended into one another, just like our lives—tightly bound together, never to be apart again.
Comment 0 Comment Count