Jiang Xiaoyue, being like a child, would play with Xibao after meals, kneeling on the kang and playing with pebbles.
It wasn’t Xibao’s first time seeing such a game, after all, there were plenty of games for the children of the Wanglou Brigade. But he was young and had long forgotten about it, so now that he saw Jiang Xiaoyue playing, his eyes followed the pebbles around, a picture of innocence.
Feng Qingxue gently tugged at Fang Ning’s sleeve, and the two used the excuse of washing dishes to step outside.
In a low voice, Feng Qingxue told Fang Ning about Qiao Desheng’s request, saying, "I’ve explained everything, it’s your decision. If you agree, I’ll arrange for you two to meet. If not, I’ll ask him not to disturb you anymore."
Fang Ning, slightly taken aback, said softly, "So he’s the one who wrote that letter, causing me great trouble. Had it not been for you, Feng Qingxue, I would’ve ended up like Jin Zhuzhu and the rest. I’m still traumatized by the incident. It’s only been a few days, I don’t have the capacity to think about settling down for life. Besides, come spring or summer, we’ll probably leave, either returning to the Capital or continuing our consoling tour. The idea of getting married is too distant for me."
Feng Qingxue nodded, "Since that’s how you feel, I’ll tell Comrade Qiao exactly that. But, Fang Ning, there’s something I hesitated to say, fearing that you might take it the wrong way, like I’m speaking up for comrade Qiao."
"Do tell, there’s no need to hold back among us."
"The majority of soldiers across the country are single, and there’s a squad’s worth of them asking for my aid in finding a spouse. The state takes this issue very seriously. More than a decade ago, when soldiers from the Northwest expressed their wishes, how many female soldiers, high school girls, and virtuous women were dispatched from all over the country? Countless. Being part of the arts troupe in the army is a hot commodity. By a certain age, even if you don’t want to get married, the military will arrange a match for you, and we can’t choose based on age, looks, or personality. You’ve seen what happened with Bai Xue."
Fang Ning was silent after hearing that.
Being like a blooming flower, Bai Xue married an old man. She seemed to be in a comfortable position, but only those involved knew the real taste of it.
None of the young girls would want such a marriage where they’re overshadowed by an old tree, unless it was for fame and fortune. At least Fang Ning herself wouldn’t, as she couldn’t bear the thought of marrying an old man.
Feng Qingxue sighed, "Fang Ning, not all things in life are under our control. Instead of waiting for a forced match, wouldn’t it be better to find a revolutionary partner ourselves? Even if you don’t marry right away, you can date upfront, openly interact, isn’t it common for soldiers and their families to live apart? I wish to accompany the army, and yet Xibao’s father is still indecisive! Comrade Qiao can perform his duty, you can sing your songs, there’s no conflict."
"Give me some time to think about it, I’ll get back to you in a few days." Fang Ning knew Feng Qingxue meant well, she wouldn’t bring up the unseemly behavior in the army if it wasn’t sincere, "Ever since Bai Xue got married, there have been many discussions behind closed doors in our troupe, fearing the army would randomly match us up. As for Fengying, could you perhaps find her a suitable partner first? She feels she’s of age and fears an arranged match from the army, as long as it doesn’t interfere with her stage performances."