Chapter 64: Willingly Share Three Lifetimes of Beauty With You

"Old Duan and his big mouth—I should have never trusted him. I knew he wasn't reliable," Lin Zhaowei said with a laugh, shaking his head, his demeanor unconcerned. At his age, everything necessary had already been prepared; his sole worries remained his daughter and Xiaobai. But what use was worry? In life, so often fate is set, like Lin Jingyu's insistence on marrying Chen Songyuan, or Lin Wanbai's resolve to wed Fu Juxing. These were beyond his control; whether their future was bright or troubled, that was theirs alone to bear. All he could do was his utmost, until the moment he closed his eyes for good.

Lin Jingyu asked, "Old Duan said you refuse to have the surgery. Why?"

"I'm already this old. If you put me on the operating table, isn't that asking for my life?"

"But if you don't have the surgery, you..."

Lin Zhaowei waved his hand, "Enough. Don't worry. I know my own affairs."

Heart surgery was no minor operation, yet not having it was far riskier. Lin Jingyu frowned deeply, silent for a while, and soon her eyes reddened, tears spilling down. The courtyard was tranquil, her quiet grief drawing her father's attention; he turned and saw her crying, covering her mouth.

He had meant to smile, but seeing her cry, he couldn't. No matter how old his child grew, he could never stand seeing her tears.

He sighed, took a handkerchief from his pocket, and handed it to her. "What's there to cry about? I'm still alive, aren't I?"

"Dad, when we get back, you must listen to Old Duan and take care of yourself. Leave the company to me and Zhouye; we'll manage, no problem. I know you're worried about Songyuan, but your daughter isn't a fool—I've grown up, and I have a brain. Seeing you, at your age, still holding down the company, it makes me feel bad. Dad, I'm really an unfilial daughter."

"It's late to say that, but hearing it brings me comfort. Still, there's no need for such words between father and daughter. Look, the little one has already avenged me. In time, you'll understand my worries and anxieties; there's plenty for you to fret over."

He meant Xiaobai.

Lin Jingyu held his hand, wiped her tears. "Dad, you must be obedient. From now on, I'll take care of you. This family will be carried by Zhouye and me. Even if you don't trust me, you should trust Zhouye—he's capable, he'll manage the Lin family well."

"I trust you both."

"And you can rest easy with Xiaobai. She's smarter than me, more cunning, and when trouble comes, she'll be more responsible than I ever could be."

Lin Zhaowei looked at her, smiling and shaking his head. "Both of you were raised by me. How could I not know your sense of responsibility? I know you better than anyone. You're both excellent, clever, and capable of facing anything. But what I want isn't a daughter who's a superwoman, exceedingly outstanding—that's all extra. I just want you to become the best version of yourselves."

"My wishes are simple. I just want to see you both safe and happy, to live a peaceful life. If you marry the men you love, that's happiness enough. I just hope you can remain happy."

His words brought fresh tears to Lin Jingyu's eyes. She lowered her head, lips pressed tight, unsure what to say.

"Dad, honestly..." She looked at him with watery eyes. "During the New Year, why must you make me cry? You're impossible!"

Lin Zhaowei chuckled, then looked back and coughed, saying, "How long do you plan to hide? You're grown up. Still playing hide-and-seek with your grandpa?"

Lin Jingyu blinked, following his gaze, and saw Lin Wanbai step out from behind the shrubbery.

"Grandpa, do you have eyes on the back of your head? I hid so well and you still spotted me!"

"Listening behind walls, is that fun?"

She grinned and sat next to Lin Jingyu, handing her a tissue from her pocket. Lin Jingyu tapped her lightly and accepted it, wiping her tears. "Why are you up so early? No heat in the room, couldn't sleep?"

"A mother knows her daughter best."

"We're the same. I couldn't sleep from the cold either. They must've cut corners, not even installed heating—thinking we'd never come back, so they skimped?"

Lin Zhaowei said, "The installers will come this afternoon. Neither of you are as robust as this old man. I slept soundly and didn't feel cold at all. Two people sharing a bed, and still cold?"

Lin Jingyu laughed, "Older folks sleep with separate blankets." She spoke with a meaningful glance at Lin Wanbai. "Young people are different—full of vitality, yet afraid of the cold?"

"Fu Juxing is still recovering, his energy is low. But he's not afraid of the cold—I am." She clutched her hand warmer, never letting go.

The three sat in the cool courtyard for a while, then returned inside.

The old house, after all, was old. Renovated without changing the foundation, many features were simply not usable.

In the end, the heating was never installed.

They brought in more old-fashioned heaters, closed all the windows and doors, and the house felt warmer.

Lin Jingyu soon went to the kitchen, checking if any dishes needed supplementing or improvement.

Only Lin Zhaowei and Lin Wanbai remained in the hall.

"Sitting at home is dull. Why don't you accompany me for a walk?"

Lin Wanbai agreed instantly, without hesitation.

Lin Zhaowei smiled, "Now you can leave Fu Juxing behind?"

"There are servants, and aside from his legs, he's perfectly fine. He can take care of himself."

"Then I'll happily borrow your time."

Lin Wanbai smiled, though her smile seemed a bit weak.

Before leaving, she grabbed a new hand warmer and helped Lin Zhaowei out the door.

Outside, a long lane paved with bluestone stretched ahead, old and slightly damp. Lin Wanbai carefully supported her grandfather as they walked slowly.

The morning air was crisp. Firecrackers sounded near and far, children hopped and ran about, lively and festive.

It was New Year's Eve; all shops in town were closed.

They reached the town center, where a stage was being set up, and chose a spot to sit.

"I hear there'll be opera every day during the festival."

"Where do they find performers? Don't they need to go home for the holiday?"

"The troupe is local—opera enthusiasts, and the mayor provides costumes and props for free. I sponsored the stage."

Lin Wanbai was surprised. "You enjoy opera?"

"I'm not especially fond—your grandmother loved it. She always said she'd sing opera when she got old."

"Can you sing?"

"A little, but not well."

"Then tomorrow, Grandpa, you should perform, and we'll all cheer for you."

He waved his hands, "Don't torment these old bones."

Lin Wanbai laughed, "It's rare to see you shy like this."

Lin Zhaowei gazed at the distant stage, speaking softly, "If only your grandmother were here. It's hard to believe I've spent so many years alone. She was always afraid of death, but when the time came, she was calm. She was remarkable—I've missed her for so many years. Love and marriage are a kind of learning: how can two people live together for a lifetime without growing tired, how can feelings remain fresh? It takes a lifetime to learn and improve."

"Of course, it's not just one person's effort—it takes both. Love fears dullness; marriage fears turmoil that breaks bones. I remember your grandmother once said, 'Men are fickle: the more you care, the more they take themselves seriously.' For a woman to remain fresh in a man's eyes, she must have her own career. You can't revolve around him alone; you need your own circle, your own pursuits. No matter how much you love each other, you need space."

"Anything done to excess will backfire."

Lin Wanbai understood. Resting her chin in her hands, she tilted her head and smiled at him. "So how did Grandma keep you wrapped around her finger?"

At this, Lin Zhaowei's smile deepened. Even after all these years, the memories between them were vivid. He paused, then shook his head with a smile. "She was an enchantress, utterly captivating—I only ever thought of her. There's no woman better than her in this world."

Lin Wanbai touched her cheek, laughing. "Then there's no man better than you—Grandma was lucky, and I'm a bit jealous."

She pouted playfully.

Lin Zhaowei was delighted, his face full of joy and relaxation.

Lin Wanbai, inexplicably, felt her nose sting. Remembering what Lin Jingyu had said, she hugged Lin Zhaowei. "Grandpa, I don't want to immigrate anymore. I want to stay by your side."

He patted her shoulder. "Don't listen to your mother. I'm fine—it's nothing serious."

"I know it's nothing serious, but even so, I don't want to leave. I want to stay and accompany you in your twilight years. They say old folks like their children and grandchildren around, a lively family. The Lin family is small, so if I leave, it'll be even quieter. Maybe you should've made Mom give me a younger brother." She huffed.

"Your mother's fear of death—having you was her greatest courage. She'd never do it again. It's not about quantity; it's about quality. Having a granddaughter like you is enough for me. If you do things well, you're no less than any man."

Lin Wanbai snorted, "You never say it, but you've raised me as a boy!"

"Equality for all. Of course, you had to learn what boys learn."

Lin Wanbai laughed, "That does sound reasonable."

"I'm the most reasonable elder there is."

"Yes, yes," she nodded repeatedly.

After sitting awhile, they rose to head back.

Lin Zhaowei grew serious. "Don't let my illness affect your decisions. If immigration is right, then go. I think you're absolutely correct—you've shown me your mind is still clear. I believe you'll eventually find the happiness you want."

"You think I'm right?"

"Of course." He took her hand, and though she clutched her warmer, it was still cold.

His hands were exceptionally warm. He wrapped hers in his palms, gently rubbing them. "As long as you're happy and don't hurt yourself, that's the greatest reward you can give me. Remember that."

Lin Wanbai looked at him and finally nodded.

They wandered a bit more before returning home.

Fu Juxing was already up, sitting in the hall with Lin Zhouye.

As they entered, they heard lively conversation, both men smiling—a rare sight, like the sun rising in the west.

In three years of marriage, Lin Wanbai had never seen them so at ease together.

Fu Juxing was always friendly, but Lin Zhouye rarely engaged; such warmth between them was unprecedented.

Lin Zhaowei asked, "What are you talking about, so happily?"

"Nothing much—just about Juwan. I spotted an eco-city project and chatted with him. His company's planning is meticulous; it's a shame he let go of Juwan. If he ran it himself, within a few years, the name would be renowned in the country."

Fu Juxing was modest. "Uncle, you're too generous."

Lin Zhouye smiled, "Excessive humility is insincere. Having ambition and ability is no bad thing."

Lin Wanbai said, "Isn't humility a virtue? Or do you always accept praise, saying you're so outstanding? I don't see that—you're a hundred times more modest than Fu Juxing."

He scoffed, "I say one word, you say ten. So protective?"

"Is that a problem?"

"No, not at all."

Lin Zhouye drank his tea, letting the topic drop.

Lin Zhaowei sat down, and Lin Wanbai naturally took her place beside Fu Juxing.

"Where's Songyuan?"

"Big brother's helping big sister in the kitchen."

Lin Zhaowei nodded, saying nothing more.

And so began a leisurely time of cracking sunflower seeds.

Lunch was made by Lin Jingyu herself—a few simple dishes. Wearing an apron, she said, "Get ready—I'm personally cooking tonight's New Year's Eve feast!"

Lin Wanbai glanced at the dishes. "Impressive, looks like you've improved a lot."

"Of course!"

"Surely Dad was teaching you step by step, right?"

"Actually, not this time. I spent a year learning, and this is all my own work."

Chen Songyuan nodded, "She's telling the truth—I really didn't help."

"Enough chatting, start eating, hurry!"

Lin Jingyu was bursting with excitement, her eyes shining. This was her big reveal after a year of effort, finally able to show off her cooking.

With her urging, everyone began to eat.

Each sampled a dish.

"Well? How is it?" Lin Jingyu looked at them expectantly, knowing this was her best effort yet.

She'd worried about unfamiliar equipment, fearing the food wouldn't turn out right.

But with Chen Songyuan and the chef's help, she did even better.

Lin Wanbai looked astonished. "Mom, you're amazing! Who taught you? Give me their name so I can learn too!"

"Is it good?"

"It's wonderful—I almost cried."

Lin Jingyu winked at her, "You'll get a big red envelope this year."

Lin Wanbai raised her eyebrows.

Lin Jingyu insisted everyone answer, and they all said it was good, making her very happy and more confident about the evening meal.

Chen Songyuan said, "I said it was delicious, but you didn't believe me."

"You always say it's good, no matter what I make. Of course I didn't believe you."

"Now you know I was honest."

She grinned, sweet and silly.

...

In the afternoon, the whole family sat in the hall. It was cold outside, and even with sunshine, no one wanted to go out.

It was rare for the family to sit together like this, watching TV, chatting, drinking tea. Lin Wanbai lay under a blanket, nestled against Fu Juxing, her head on his arm, drowsy and wanting a nap.

She listened to their voices, her lips curled in a smile, her heart full. She wished her family could always be so harmonious and warm.

Like that, she napped against him for a while.

When she woke, only she and Fu Juxing were left in the room.

Still groggy and cold, she wrapped herself tighter in the blanket, rubbed her eyes. "Where did everyone go?"

"Grandpa went to rest, Uncle stepped out for a call, Mom and Dad are in the kitchen preparing dinner."

Lin Wanbai stretched. "Looks like we're the only ones with nothing to do."

"So, what do you want to do?"

"Nothing, really. Just sitting here watching TV with you is nice." She said, then threw herself into his arms, curling up—since no one was around, she could indulge a little.

Their spot caught the sunlight, golden warmth bathing them, a soft radiance gilding their surroundings. Lin Wanbai's smile was especially vivid in the light.

She wrapped her arms around his neck, sprawled across him. Her pupils, lit by the sun, turned amber, her eyes sparkling. In a low voice, she said, "While no one's here, kiss me."

She pouted exaggeratedly.

Fu Juxing chuckled, his lips curling upward, revealing white teeth, his smile angelic.

Lin Wanbai froze, feeling her heart stir—that was the feeling of falling in love.

She thought she might be hopeless; after all these years, that thrill was unchanged, just as when she first fell for him.

She was done for, truly done for.

Not waiting for him, she leaned in and kissed him.

His lips tasted sweet as honey, making her shiver inside.

She remembered her father's words—love should be restrained, never too much.

But she couldn't help herself; she was like an open dam, all feelings pouring out, unwilling to hide anything.

She hugged him tightly, chin on his shoulder, and said, "I'm the happiest person in the world."

He smiled softly, kissed her ear.

Lin Zhouye finished his call, came to the doorway, saw them cuddling, and quietly left.

But he didn't go far; he stood under a tree in the front yard, idle.

...

As dusk fell, the house lights glowed. With a bit of decoration, the old house took on new charm, illuminated beautifully.

Lin Wanbai helped Lin Jingyu in the kitchen. Most dishes were made by the chef; she contributed a few herself. Some dishes she didn't know how to make, but after this experience, her interest in cooking grew.

At six sharp, the New Year's Eve dinner began.

Everyone changed into festive, formal attire, gathering for the meal.

Lin Zhaowei raised his glass, stood, and said, "In the new year, may everyone's wishes come true and progress be made."

Each person added their own auspicious words, clinking glasses, and drank.

They sat down and began to eat.

Inside and out, the house brimmed with holiday cheer, everyone's face radiant with joy.

Lin Jingyu said, "All that's left is to have a child or two running around—then it'd be even livelier."

She glanced at Lin Wanbai, then at Lin Zhouye, considering urging him to marry, but remembering he'd decided to wed Fu Miao, her smile faded, and she turned back to Lin Wanbai. "After the New Year, you'll be twenty-six. Maybe it's time to think about having a child."

At the mention of children, Lin Wanbai realized her period had been late—she'd been busy and forgot.

Suddenly, she spat out the wine she had just swallowed, and began to cough.

Fu Juxing put down his chopsticks and patted her back. "Drink slowly."

Lin Wanbai wiped her mouth with a tissue. "I'm fine."

Lin Jingyu said, "You're not so young anymore. If you can, have a child."

Before, they hadn't urged her, but now, with her father's health declining, she thought a grandchild would cheer him. But with Fu Juxing and Xiaobai's shaky relationship, it wasn't suitable.

Now, things were different.

Lin Wanbai replied, "Got it."

Lin Zhaowei said, "Children are fate. Let it happen naturally—no need to rush."

"Dad, with that attitude, you'll never have a great-grandchild."

He laughed, neither agreeing nor disagreeing.

After eating, the elders handed out red envelopes.

Only Lin Wanbai was of the younger generation; the rest were elders.

Lin Jingyu kept her word, giving her a huge, thick red envelope.

Lin Zhouye sent his via WeChat.

Lin Zhaowei didn't give money, but gifted her a fine jade pendant for protection.

There were two, a matching pair.

Lin Wanbai walked up to him and said, "I have a gift for you too."

"What is it?"

She bent down and kissed his cheek. "A loving kiss."

Lin Zhaowei smiled, his eyes crinkling with joy.

He patted her hand. "You little rascal."

The room was filled with laughter. Lin Wanbai truly felt she was the happiest person in the world.

...

That night, no other activities were planned; the family sat together watching the Spring Festival Gala.

When midnight arrived, they went outside to set off fireworks.

At twelve, the night was lively, snowflakes drifting from the sky.

Lin Wanbai stood with Fu Juxing, his hands covering her ears. With a boom, fireworks burst in the night sky, dazzling and fleeting.

The whole sky flashed with color.

Lin Wanbai looked up, silently making a wish: may her grandfather live long; may those she loves have their wishes fulfilled, safe and happy; may she find happiness.

She turned to Fu Juxing, who happened to be looking at her.

With fireworks exploding, they couldn't hear each other.

But she saw his lips move: I love you.

She smiled, beckoned him with her finger. He leaned down, and she kissed his lips, then whispered in his ear, "When dreams fade, I'd gladly spend three lifetimes with you."

She promised him three lifetimes.

But the firecrackers were loud; perhaps he didn't hear.

She wouldn't repeat it. She looked up at him, smiling brightly, joyfully.

In such moments, words were pointless; she told him with her eyes, of her deep and abiding love.

...

The next morning, the old house was silent, everyone still asleep.

Snow fell outside, the town blanketed in white.

Lin Wanbai woke late; the bed was especially warm as Fu Juxing held her close. Pressed tightly together, they were even warmer.

After washing and dressing, she drew open the curtains. The window was fogged; she traced a small circle and peered out, startled by the scene.

"Fu Juxing, it's snowing!"

Delighted, she opened the window. A gust of cold wind rushed in, freezing her; she quickly shut it again, rubbed her face, and looked embarrassed. "It's even colder now."

Fu Juxing was dressing, smiling at her. "Then put on another layer."

He wore only light clothes, unfazed by the wind.

She fetched him a down coat, matching hers.

Seeing him bend to put on shoes, she hurried over, placed the coat on the bed, knelt to take the shoes from his hands, and helped him put them on. "After the New Year, your leg should be healed."

"Yes, then you won't have to work so hard."

"I'm not working hard." After the shoes were on, she stood and helped him up. "I feel quite happy."

Then she helped him with his coat, adding a scarf.

Outside, the snow had been cleared by the servants.

They went out; breakfast was ready.

Everyone woke at different times; four meals were prepared.

When they entered the main hall, only the steward was there. Everyone else was still in their rooms—too cold, and with nothing planned for the first day of the New Year, everyone was lazy.

The steward said, "The old master is up, enjoying the flowers in the back garden."

Older people, after all, can't sleep in even if they want to.