Chapter 2074: Extra Story 56: Another Year

Chinese New Year’s Eve dinner was shared only with her uncle’s family and Xiao Bai and the others. After dinner, each person returned to their courtyard to stay up for New Year’s Eve.

With his beloved wife on his left and his excellent son on his right, Ah Jiu’s heart had never felt so content. Seeing the bright red paper cuttings on the window made him feel even happier.

“This year we still can’t celebrate New Year with Royal Mother. I painted a picture of Little Bun and sent it back to her before, and also sent a letter,” Wufu said.

Ah Jiu responded, “Your health is important, don’t over-exert yourself. From my perspective, Royal Mother will only become more longing after seeing the portrait.”

Wufu could imagine that scene and couldn’t help but smile, “It’s just a simple sketch, nothing too demanding.”

“I’ll keep it for a few days; since we’re free, why not invite an artist tomorrow to paint a portrait of our family of three?” Ah Jiu pondered aloud.

Wufu agreed with the idea and nodded.

On Chinese New Year’s Eve, the couple teased their son while exchanging trivial information, including discussions on people appointed in various positions after conquering the land.

When Wufu learned that Ah Jiu placed Eagle Hall people in several key positions, she couldn’t help but be surprised and asked, “Aren’t you afraid they’ll become too powerful?”

The Eagle Hall has remained unfaltering for two hundred years; now inserting people in important positions—who knows if they might desire to overturn things if fed well?

“The Eagle Hall is currently controlled by the Mei Family; in the future, it will be in the hands of Changsheng. The power of Changsheng is your power,” Ah Jiu said. “Wufu, I won’t allow anyone the chance to look down on or bully you.”

Moved by her words, Wufu said, “A tree standing out among others is bound to be destroyed by the wind; you’re putting me in a difficult position. A wife’s family being too strong isn’t beneficial for you.”

“This is what I’m willing to give you, it’s of no concern.” Ah Jiu chuckled softly and hugged her shoulders, saying, “Actually, giving it to you is also giving it to him.”

He gently touched his son’s face and said, “Right now, we’re managing this for him; in the future, he will need to rely on himself. If he can’t uphold it, then he’d better step aside sooner rather than later.”

“Who talks about their own son like that?” Wufu clicked her tongue.

Ah Jiu said, “Wufu, I’m only giving him sixteen years.”

Wufu looked at him, awaiting his next words.

“We’re conquering this land for enduring peace and so that no one dares to oppress us as we journey across the world. Wufu, you don’t enjoy being confined to the palace’s small area, and neither do I. Like you, I prefer traveling further to see the world. So, I’ll only guard this for them for more than ten years; afterward, don’t expect me to occupy my time accompanying you across the ends of the earth… ah, look at you, why are you crying?” Ah Jiu hastily wiped her tears.

Wufu sniffled, pretending to complain, “Isn’t it because of you, annoying.”

She was touched; this person thought just like her.

What’s more fulfilling than a partner having the same values, whose thoughts revolve around her? These words from him could truly be considered genuine declarations of love.

“Let’s work hard for another decade or so,” Ah Jiu said as he kissed away her tears.

Wufu nodded.

Crackle-pow! Suddenly, the sound of firecrackers echoed from afar. They glanced at the small foreign clock on the table—it was past midnight, a new year had begun.

Crackle.

Fireworks illuminated the night sky; Ah Jiu donned a large cloak, took her hand, and walked to the corridor, embracing her and wrapping her entirely in the cloak, watching the brilliant fireworks blossom like flowers.

“Happy New Year,” Ah Jiu kissed the top of her head.

Wufu turned her head, kissed his lips, and smiled back, “Happy New Year.”

Another year has passed; the storm is over, an era of prosperity is approaching.