Capítulo 1385: Chapter 1386: The Little Widow of the Courtyard 113 Xiao Min is also considering what to do with the newborn child. “This place isn’t suited for raising a child.” Although grandparents are here, they have their own matters to tend to and can’t help with childcare. “How about letting my mom come over?” Zhao Lei is thinking about this situation as well. “Are you suggesting mom bring along Xiao Xi?” Although over the years, we’ve received the family photos taken in Capital City and know that Zhang Yu is taking great care of Xiao Xi, as a mother, even knowing the child is well, there’s always that sense of longing for the child. Xiao Min at least accompanied the child for several months, but Zhao Lei, despite being a father for several years, hasn’t seen his daughter. “How about we ask?” Things are much better now than they were a few years ago. Even though the residential area is some distance from their research institute, they can meet daily. Zhao Lei thought about it and went to ask the leader. The leader knows Zhao Lei’s family situation, “Your mom can come over.” “However, the environment here can’t compare to that of Capital City,” the leader said bluntly. “Exactly.” Zhao Lei is also aware the environment here can’t match Capital City; “I’ll ask my mom again.” Zhao Lei wrote a letter to Zhang Yu, letting her make the choice herself. After receiving the letter, Zhang Yu pondered for a moment and brought it up with Zhao Hong and Xiao Yi. Zhao Hong and Xiao Yi were slightly taken aback, “Mom, you should go.” Zhao Hong thought it over. Although reluctant to part, realizing Zhang Yu wishes to see Zhao Lei. Xiao Yi nodded, indicating he had no issues with it, “At that time, I’ll have Old Man Wang stay over.” When Zhang Yu is around, him staying here doesn’t stir gossip, but with Zhang Yu gone, leaving just the two of them, Xiao Yi can foresee the rumors. The best solution is having Old Man Wang over, “I’ll stay below with Old Man Wang.” “Then I’ll go,” Zhang Yu thought it over and concluded this was the best solution. “Your brother has never seen Xiao Xi; your sister hasn’t had any news since leaving Capital City.” “Even with photos, there’ll certainly be longing.” With home not being an issue, Zhang Yu quickly wrote back to Zhao Lei for him to send an invitation letter as that’s necessary for her travel. Having decided to go, preparations need to be underway, including making the pork floss and fish floss. There’s also fish jerky and clothes they need to bring. When boarding, Zhang Yu carried large bags, grateful that the train was direct and for securing hard-sleeper tickets, or else it would have been arduous. Since it’s the starting station, Xiao Yi helped deliver the items to the train, then approached train staff to inform them of the situation. “Don’t worry,” Zhang Yu waved, signaling her capability. In fact, she’s stored important things in space, leaving large baggage outside. After a two-day journey, the train halted at a small station, and there weren’t many people left aboard. Looking at the barren town outside, Zhang Yu inhaled deeply, unloaded with help, “Thank you.” Through a handshake, Zhang Yu discreetly handed over a ticket, knowing giving money is inappropriate and liable to cause trouble. The train staff found something in hand, initially intending to return it. “You have a child, it’s Zhang’s milk powder coupon,” Zhang Yu discerned he’s recently become a father, knowing he’d need it. Upon hearing it’s a milk powder coupon, he truly needed it, “Thank you, ma’am.” “Thank you?” Zhang Yu humorously replied; the young man was indeed considerate and often checked in. While they were just brief interactions, they deterred some people; otherwise, with just an old lady and a child along with bulky luggage, someone would surely have been up to something. Carrying luggage, Zhang Yu led Xiao Xi into the small waiting area to await pick-up. Zhao Lei mentioned in the letter someone would come to get them. Yet, be it in the waiting area or outside, there’s no vehicle present, “Grandma,” Zhao Xi said somewhat anxiously. Initially delighted to finally meet her parents, the prolonged train ride left the little girl feeling down. The desolation added to a child accustomed to Capital City proving a tad unsettling. “We’ll wait here for daddy. Xiao Xi, shall Grandma mix you some milk?” Although fretful, with night slowly falling and uncertain of the pickup time, Zhang Yu remained composed. Taking the opportunity to fetch hot water, she inquired to the staff and learned there’s a small inn beside the station, serving travelers overnight, offering relief. At least in the absence of a pick-up, knowing there’s somewhere to stay relaxed her considerably. Just as she thought she’d be spending the night there, a young man in military attire entered the waiting area, glancing around before noticing those waiting. Spotting them, Zhang Yu wondered whether he’s their pick-up. Approaching, he said, “Zhang Yu, Zhao Xi, from Capital City?” Quickly nodding, Zhang Yu affirmed, “Yes, yes.” “We’re colleagues of Researcher Zhao Lei, here to escort you,” handing over Zhao Lei’s letter along the way. Upon receiving it, Zhang Yu saw notes from Zhao Lei including secrets only shared between mother and son. “Thank you much,” Zhang Yu said, pulling Zhao Xi along while intending to retrieve luggage, only to find the man lifting the largest ones. Tʜe source of this ᴄontent ɪs NoveI★Fire.net She only needed small pieces, observing, “It’s hard to make such a trip.” Packing felt as though lacking, needing more, yet things piled on. Not bringing them seemed a waste too. “It’s no issue.” The man effortlessly carried the bags. Exiting the station, Zhang Yu discovered a convoy, at least a dozen vehicles parked outside. Zhang Yu realized they were collecting supplies, asking “Us?” “It’ll be cramped,” he guided her into a car. Observing a space beside the driver, Zhang Yu understood it’s reserved for them. “Really sorry, how long until reaching there?” “Smoothly, by this time tomorrow,” the young escort said before moving ahead. Fine, Zhang Yu acknowledged there was nothing to do but remain silent. On the car, embracing Zhao Xi, both fell into a deep slumber. The driver looked at the sleeping grandson and grandmother, sincerely impressed; had anticipated she’d ask something. On a previous trip, picking up a family member, the constant questions led the accompanying soldier to wish he’d stop talking. Upon waking, Zhang Yu noticed darkness outside. Feeling slightly hungry, she inquired, “Do you all not rest?” “Grandma, I’m hungry,” Zhao Xi awoke confused, noticing they’re still in the car, “Haven’t arrived yet.” “After a while, a wind-sheltered spot can be found for resting.”