This statement coincidentally matched what Mina said in the afternoon, making me unable to resist opening my already closed eyes again to look at Xiao Minxing's face through the hazy light.
He was also looking at me, his palm having moved from his stomach to my face, his rough fingertips gently stroking my cheek as he asked, "What's wrong?"
I asked him, "Don't you like your own children?"
Xiao Minxing shook his head and then said, "I do like them very much, especially the one you gave birth to. But giving birth is really painful. I remember you used to be so lively and loved going out to play. Back then, I wouldn't let you go out, and you would sneak out every time. But now? You can't even step outside the door; you stay at home all day long. Your whole personality has changed because of this, and it makes me very sad."
I placed my hand on his chest, scratching lightly through his pajamas intentionally or unintentionally, unable to hide my happiness as I said, "I'm willing to do this, willing to have children for you, willing to change myself for you, willing to do everything I can for you."
Xiao Minxing tightened his grip and pulled me closer into his embrace, and we fell into a comfortable silence.
Outside, the wind howled and rain poured that night, but inside it was warm enough to melt a person. The years of searching for him and the sadness from past misunderstandings seemed to be washed away by the storm. By dawn, both of us had become new versions of ourselves, unrelated to the past.
Mina's matter was set for half a month later, and by this time many companies that weren't too busy had already started their New Year holidays.
Zhuo Feng's company also closed early for the holiday with a long break.
However, Xiao Minxing did not; he still had endless work every day. He rushed off to the company early in the morning and returned late at night. Sometimes I would miss him particularly much, especially when I heard firecrackers occasionally going off outside or saw fireworks blooming in the dark sky from afar; it reminded me of our childhood together.
Since we met again, this was our first Spring Festival after just getting married. It was a false pregnancy and revenge; there was not a hint of joy. Now that we had finally reunited, I particularly wanted to celebrate a warm New Year with him.
That day when Xiao Minxing returned from outside, he told me, "Mina's matter has been settled."
I was still immersed in the beautiful dream of running outside with him to set off fireworks and laughing together when I suddenly heard this and didn't understand what it meant.
Xiao Minxing took off his coat as usual, washed his hands and face before coming back to lie on my belly and listen for a moment. He then gently kissed my forehead and said, "It's about what we discussed last time. I talked with Mina later and also chatted with Zhuo Feng. After this New Year, when work resumes, Mina will resign from his company. However, she will still have her share of bonuses and stocks related to Zhuo Feng; she will just work at another company."
“Did Zhuo Feng agree?” I hurriedly asked.
Xiao Minxing paused for a moment before saying, “He agreed.”
Now I started to worry about where Mina would be working. According to Xiao Minxing's previous comments, it seemed like she was going to help someone manage a company, but who would feel comfortable handing their company over to Mina?
Moreover, her expertise is in design; suddenly managing a company might put too much pressure on her or lead to other issues.
When Xiao Minxing heard my question, he patiently explained, “In business, the most important principle is that if you doubt someone, don’t use them; if you use someone, don’t doubt them. Since others have chosen her, they must have a thorough understanding of her abilities. You have to believe that no one would throw money away carelessly. So you really don’t need to worry about this. Besides, Mina has been in this industry for so many years; both her interpersonal relationships and personal abilities are very good. She should be able to handle it.”
“Did you help her find this job?” I asked Xiao Minxing.
He quickly replied, “Not exactly. I just happened to know about this company, so I recommended her to check it out. Just a couple of days ago, before Zhuo Feng's vacation, she already went there, and today the company also gave feedback. So overall, this matter is settled.”
“So that means next year Mina will also become a boss?” I asked with a smile.
Xiao Minxing nodded and said, “Yes.”
I was happy for Mina; changing her environment and job would be good for her right now. Perhaps it would broaden her horizons, and maybe before long, that mysterious ex-boyfriend and Zhuo Feng would fade from her life, allowing her to start anew.
Before going to bed, Xiao Minxing said to me again, “The due date is getting closer and closer; she could give birth at any time. Sister Liu also told me she’s going back home. What should we do?”
I looked at him helplessly, unsure of what to think.
To be honest, I was scared being at home alone. If labor started and I called Xiao Minxing immediately, it would still take him some time to get back from work. During that time, I couldn’t even imagine what might happen.
I couldn’t even bring myself to say that he should not work and stay home with me.
If our days were as pleasant as before and his company didn't have so many troubles, it would be fine. Now that I know he is overwhelmed, it really feels excessive to make such a request.
He paused for a moment and asked me, "How about we ask Mina to come take care of you?"
It would be great if Mina could come, but she has already taken care of me a lot during my marriage and pregnancy. Besides, she has her own pile of worries now; I can't keep dragging her into my issues, can I?
After thinking it over, I said, "Forget it. You're about to take a break anyway. Why don't I just go to work with you from now on? That way, if something unexpected happens, at least we'll be together."
Xiao Minxing thought for a moment and said, "It's too cold outside right now; I'm afraid you'll catch a chill."
The two of us sat in silence, leaning against the headboard.
After a long while, he spoke again, "How about I ask my mom to come take care of you for a few days? In the meantime, Mina can come keep you company. That way, it won't be too tiring for one person. I'll try to bring some work home; there should always be two or three people around, so it should be fine."
His mom? That strange woman from the Xiao Residence?
I looked at Xiao Minxing skeptically, unsure why he suddenly brought her up. From what I've observed, he hasn't even spoken to her much himself. Although we have resumed our roles as husband and wife, that doesn't seem to matter much to Mrs. Xiao.
She has always acted as if she couldn't see me.
Xiao Minxing squeezed my hand and said, "Don't worry. Although she doesn't talk much usually, she does care about us. It's just that there are too many trivial matters at the old house that keep her quiet."
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