Chapter 83: Chapter 83: No Bride
Uncle Xia began to enthusiastically strike up a conversation with Huo Shiqian.
As they chatted, Uncle Xia learned that Huo Shiqian had previously been part of the provincial city’s military force and only recently been transferred to another unit.
After a moment’s thought, Uncle Xia asked, “We have someone from our village named He Qing who’s in the provincial city’s military force. Mr. Huo, you served there before. Do you know him?”
A flicker passed through Huo Shiqian’s eyes.
Originally, he only remembered the face, the person who often followed at the heels of his competitor Qiao Canmou. But after that incident occurred, he had looked into He Qing’s specific circumstances.
“I’ve heard he’s being considered for a promotion? Do you know anything about that?” Uncle Xia continued, seizing upon Huo Shiqian’s acknowledgment.
Whenever Huo Shiqian thought about He Qing’s promotion, which was due to the money he had given He Qing for his schemes, Huo Shiqian felt extremely displeased.
A trace of light sarcasm flashed across Huo Shiqian’s lips as he said, “I haven’t heard about it. I guess it’s unlikely to happen.”
Of course, it wouldn’t happen, after he personally intervened.
“Really? It’s not going to happen?” Uncle Xia sounded somewhat surprised and also a bit thrilled, not doubting in the slightest why Huo Shiqian knew so much detail but simply assuming Huo Shiqian had a good memory.
“Yep, he has character issues, and won’t be promoted.”
Not only would he not be promoted, but by this time next year, He Qing would likely be discharged and returning to his hometown.
“Hahaha, the military leaders really have discerning eyes, this grandson truly has character issues!” Uncle Xia laughed heartily, “Straight talk between us, Mr. Huo, I find you very agreeable.”
“If I hadn’t injured my leg and you weren’t on duty, I would definitely have a few drinks with you today!”
In Uncle Xia’s mind, Huo Shiqian had already become an image of a stern yet warm-hearted, proficient military commander.
A glint passed through Huo Shiqian’s eyes upon hearing Uncle Xia’s words.
Their conversation became even more casual.
After a while, Xia Chuyi, having washed up and changed clothes, came out of the room.
Her cheeks were clean and rosy after washing and changing, and her large dark eyes sparkled.
Huo Shiqian continued to drink his tea, casually observing her.
Xia Chuyi really wanted to make a face at him, but because Uncle Xia was there, she refrained.
“Chuyi, you’re not hurt, are you?” Uncle Xia was the first to ask upon seeing her.
“I’m wearing so much, where would I get hurt?” she replied with a laugh, “I just twisted my foot a bit.”
The previous disgrace wasn’t solely because of her foot injury; it was more the despair in her heart.
She had thought that Uncle Xia would repeat his last life’s fate.
Her rebirth, unable to change the destiny of her loved ones, was the biggest blow to her.
Thankfully, thankfully… she glanced at Huo Shiqian.
Their eyes met, and though no words were spoken, they miraculously knew what the other was thinking.
After the silent exchange of looks between them, Xiao Wang and Aunt Xia also came in from outside.
Aunt Xia muttered as she walked in: “Young soldier, you really shouldn’t have. I’m used to doing housework, how could it tire me? Yet you insist on not letting me help.”
Her expression was full of cheer.
Clearly, the two had gotten along very well outside.
“Auntie, please don’t be polite; this is what I should do!” Xiao Wang said earnestly, his hands never stopping. He was holding cleaning tools, and even helped Aunt Xia lift the door curtain.
“Oh, you’re such a good comrade!” Aunt Xia laughed.
Uncle Xia looked at Xiao Wang, who had his hands full of tools, and Aunt Xia, who had a beaming smile on her face.
“Commander Huo, I’d like to ask you something.” Uncle Xia diverted from the previous conversation, suddenly speaking out.
A glint passed through Huo Shiqian’s eyes as he put down his wine glass: “Go on.”
Their tones were noticeably more casual and warm than before.
Uncle Xia glanced at Xiao Wang and then at Xia Chuyi before turning back to Huo Shiqian, “Commander Huo, this driver of yours, Xiao Wang, is he married yet?”
Click, Xiao Wang seemed to hear the sound of a bullet being chambered.