He had never thought about what his future wife would be like. It always seemed too far away for him.
Today, the two of them went out to get their marriage certificate. Mom and brother didn’t oppose it, but it’s based on the condition that everything goes smoothly. If they felt it was inappropriate, they definitely wouldn’t agree to her being with Han Yi, which would be troublesome.
She’s not that old now, even if Mom agrees for them to date, she wouldn’t let her get married so early. Besides, they are thinking of letting her attend night school. She knows Mom and brother too well; if she goes to night school, they’ll definitely want her to graduate before getting married.
Three years, she can’t wait that long; it’s certain that Han Yi can’t wait either. Why such a good condition, such a rush to get married? There must be a reason. Otherwise, he wouldn’t joke about his lifelong happiness.
"Did you bring photos?" As soon as they entered the civil affairs office, the staff inside asked.
The two shook their heads.
"Without photos, you can only use the old version of the marriage certificate. The new certificate has a photo section. Comrades, why don’t you go take a photo and come back in a few days? It’s a good opportunity, having a photo as a keepsake is nice. If you’re not willing, we can give you the old version today." The staff kindly showed them a new marriage certificate.
Lin Wan didn’t expect this to happen and turned to Han Yi, saying, "Let’s go take photos. I want the new version."
"Alright, if you like, let’s take them." Since it’s his first time getting married, Han Yi didn’t know much. He just knew that his fellow soldiers went back to get married with only their military introduction letter and officer’s ID.
"Comrade, do you want the photos in black and white or color?" Lin Wan asked, and the staff paused, saying, "These days, the new versions are in black and white, but there are one or two in color. You choose which one you want; we don’t have regulations on that." Although there’s a new version, some couples still use the old version without a photo to save money, or use black and white photos. Color photos are expensive, and most families can’t afford them.
The old version will probably be discontinued by the end of this month. They still suggest using the new version.
Lin Wan took Han Yi to the store where she developed restaurant menu photos. The main thing is the owner himself can develop the photos, so there’s no long wait.
"Can the photos be ready today?" Han Yi seemed very anxious about the marriage certificate.
"Comrade, if you aren’t short on money, considering you’re a regular customer, you pay five bucks, and I can rush it for you—the photos will be ready in two hours." He had just changed the film a few days ago, and developing now would waste quite a bit.
"Alright, please rush it for me."
Lin Wan puzzledly tugged on Han Yi’s sleeve and said, "Why spend so much more? We can wait two days."
Han Yi shook his head, "I have to return to the team tomorrow, probably won’t be back for another month or two."
"... Oh." Hearing he’d leave tomorrow, Lin Wan felt a bit lost.
Han Yi noticed Lin Wan’s thoughts but didn’t know how to explain. He secretly mustered some courage, raised his hand to hold Lin Wan’s hand, and said, "Sorry, I’m a soldier; I have to bear this responsibility. Rest assured, I’ll accompany you whenever I have time."
Lin Wan looked up straight at him, smiling, and said, "It’s just unfamiliar for now; I’ll get used to it gradually. Don’t worry, I’ll wait for you to come home peacefully."
Lin Wan wanted to say we’re husband and wife but thought that they hadn’t registered yet, and in the end, didn’t say it.