The mother of the era is reborn to support her cannon fodder children!

Chapter 478 "Is it stipulated by law?"

Ning Xiao gave a vague answer, saying, "My brother has some personal matters to attend to."

Gu Zhiyao muttered, "Private matters?"

"What personal matters could you possibly have that you can't even go home?"

She just muttered about it casually, without thinking of delving into it further.

Everyone has the right to privacy.

"Never mind, I hope Mom won't be disappointed."

Hearing this, Ning Xiao breathed a sigh of relief in a corner where Gu Zhiyao wasn't paying attention.

He couldn't lie to Yaobao. If she pressed him for an answer, he really wouldn't know how to respond. Luckily, she didn't ask anymore.
-
Lin Zhao was overjoyed to see her daughter and son-in-law and personally went to the kitchen to cook a meal for them.

Ning Xiao and Gu Zhiyao went to the kitchen to help.

Noticing that her husband was in a good mood, Gu Zhiyao turned to look at Ning Xiao.

"What good news? You look very happy."

Lin Zhao also looked over curiously.

"It's nothing." Ning Xiao's voice was soft and gentle. He was very relaxed in the Gu family, like a fierce beast returning to its lair, rolling around with its soft belly exposed.

"It suddenly reminded me of things from my childhood," he said.

"When you were little? What was that?" Gu Zhiyao asked curiously.

She's very image-conscious and afraid her husband will think about her past scandals, so she absolutely has to ask him about them.

"It's not something embarrassing for you," Ning Xiao stated beforehand.

Gu Zhiyao breathed a sigh of relief, but said, "I didn't ask that. Besides, I didn't have any embarrassing stories from my childhood."

Lin Zhao knew that her daughter cared most about her image, so she chimed in, "Yes, you have no embarrassing stories. You've always been well-behaved and quiet, a very quiet little girl."

The person who wrongly accused her brother after she wet the bed must not be Gu Jiazhiyao.

Gu Zhiyao herself didn't believe it and couldn't help but laugh.

She nudged Ning Xiao's arm. "You still haven't told me what you just remembered from your childhood."

Ning Xiao lowered his brows slightly, his tone tinged with emotion, "In the past, Yu Bao and Heng Bao would help Mom tend the fire in the kitchen, while you and Qian Bao would sit at the kitchen door. Every time Mom cooked a meal, she would let you try some, and you were so happy. I was so envious back then. I thought it was so good to have a mother like Aunt Lin."

He smiled and said, "I never thought we'd actually become family."

Gu Zhiyao looked at her husband in surprise, "You didn't start thinking about me when we were kids, did you?"

Ning Xiao looked horrified, with black lines appearing on his forehead. "How could this be?! I'm not a beast. How old were you back then? If I had any filthy thoughts, how would I be any different from an animal!"

He spoke with righteous indignation, and was quite frightened.

"That's not necessarily true." Gu Zhiyao had her own twisted logic. "Maybe you've heard what the villagers are saying and want to be my childhood sweetheart. If that happens, you'll become part of my family."

Ning Xiao remained silent for a moment.

After a moment of silence, Gu Zhiyao froze, exclaiming incredulously, "Really? You really thought that?!"

"No!" Ning Xiao quickly denied, afraid of being misunderstood. "That's right, someone really did say that to me."

“I scolded those people, but I didn’t take it to heart. It was only when you suddenly mentioned it that I remembered.”

Gu Zhiyao pouted, "Some people's mouths are so gossipy, it's so annoying."

Lin Zhao looked at her angry daughter and comforted her with a smile, "There are people like this everywhere. Didn't you encounter them at the TV station?"

“That’s true, just ignore it,” Gu Zhiyao said.

She comes from a good family, is good-looking, and her husband is a talented young man. She has no shortage of people who are jealous of her. She knows that people talk about her behind her back, but as long as it's not too outrageous, she never pays attention to it.

Ning Xiao was worried that Zhi Yao's gentle nature would make her vulnerable to being bullied, so he said with concern, "You have to fight back occasionally and show your strength. Don't be too easy to bully. Human nature is complex, and people always bully the weak and fear the strong. Don't be too easy to bully at the TV station either."

Hearing this, Lin Zhao, who was about to remind her daughter to shut up, glanced at the well-matched young couple, and smiled.

With someone else taking care of Yao Bao's affairs, she can worry less about it in the future.

Gu Zhiyao was making dumplings, her tone light and cheerful, "I know, my parents raised me so well, they've never let me suffer any grievances since I was little. You're the same, you spoil me in everything, how could I let outsiders bully me? Don't worry."

Actually, Gu Chenghuai had already made some connections with the TV station. He didn't make any excessive demands about abusing his power for personal gain, but simply asked them to take better care of his daughter. At least, the rumors about Yaobao being spread because of Jiang Rong shouldn't happen again.

Because of this, the TV station leaders realized that Gu Zhiyao's family background was so extraordinary. Her father was actually a high-ranking officer in the military region, and her mother was from the Lin family in Haicheng. The family had capable people in various industries, many of whom they couldn't get in touch with even if they tried to use connections. Gu Zhiyao definitely had to be taken care of!
Regular footsteps could be heard outside the clean kitchen.

A handsome young man appeared at the door.

"They're making dumplings. I've come back just in time, Mom. I want a big bowl."

Lin Zhao was overjoyed to see her youngest son, who hadn't returned for three months. She ran over and looked Gu Zhiqian up and down.

"Eat as much as you want," she said with a smile. "Why did you suddenly come back? Were you staying home for a few days?"

"Half a month." Gu Zhiqian washed his hands and went into the kitchen to help.

Ning Xiao shoved a rolling pin into his hand. "Let's roll out the dough together. Mom and Zhiyao are wrapping them too fast, I can't keep up."

Gu Zhiqian took it and started working efficiently.

He has two older brothers who are very protective of their younger brothers. He was never required to do housework growing up, but he does all of them, including cooking.

"With your help, things are so much better," Ning Xiao said with a smile.

He was afraid that if he was too slow, his wife would complain.

Gu Zhiqian smiled faintly.

"Mom made the filling, it smells so good, I want to have another late-night snack tonight."

Lin Zhao: "Okay, I'll freeze some in the fridge later and cook them for you tonight."

"Mmm." Gu Zhiqian was satisfied. He hadn't even finished his meal yet, and he was already thinking about the next one.

Gu Chenghuai returned at this time.

"The third brother is back."

Gu Zhiqian smiled and said, "It's me, Dad."

"How long will you stay?" Gu Chenghuai asked.

There was no room for him in the kitchen, so he didn't squeeze in. He planned to tidy up the dining table later.

"Half a month," Gu Zhiqian replied.

He was referring to the time spent at home, not the time spent traveling to and from the hotel.

Gu Chenghuai nodded. "That's good. Spend more time with your mother."

"Mhm," Gu Zhiqian replied. "Wherever Mom wants to go, I'll go with her."

Lin Zhao said, "I want to go boating."

"Is there a specific place, or is anywhere fine?" Gu Zhiqian searched his mind for places where he could row a boat and quickly formed a travel plan.

"Anywhere is fine, as long as the environment is nice, I want to go somewhere to relax."

“Alright, I’ll make a plan to make sure Mom is happy,” Gu Zhiqian said immediately.

"Okay, it's a rare opportunity to go out with you, I'm really looking forward to it." Lin Zhao thought about taking lots of photos.

The third child doesn't spend much time at home, so there aren't many photos of him compared to other family members.

Hearing this, Gu Zhiqian felt a mix of emotions.

A flicker of guilt crossed his eyes. His parents had raised him to adulthood, yet he couldn't be by their side often; he was truly unfilial.

Before he could feel guilty for even two seconds, Gu Chenghuai spoke up.

“Your mother doesn’t like to be bothered, so you should keep a close eye on her and make sure she’s safe. If she gets hurt, you will be held responsible.”

Gu Zhiqian was interrupted, and that sudden display of affectation vanished without a trace.

His hands continued moving as he glanced at the tall figure blocking the light at the doorway.

“Dad, I’m your son too.” He emphasized, “My grandfather often said that the youngest son and the eldest grandson are the lifeblood of the old man. I’m also the youngest son, and I don’t feel any of your favoritism.”

"Stop being so dramatic, just roll out your dumpling wrappers," Gu Chenghuai said expressionlessly.

Gu Zhiqian sighed and resignedly sped up his work.

“Brother, I’m the youngest. I’m the one who’s the lifeblood of my grandparents and parents.” Gu Zhiyao’s eyes curved into crescent moons.

“That’s right, I’m convinced.” Gu Zhiqian said earnestly.

Gu Zhiyao burst out laughing and fell against her husband, completely losing all the elegance she usually maintained in public.

"No, my little brother is also the apple of his grandparents' and parents' eye. When you're not home, his grandparents and maternal grandparents always ask about you."

"It is my fault for being unfilial." Gu Zhiqian stood tall and upright, and the only people he felt sorry for were his family who had given him endless love.

"After I've helped my mom relax, I'll go back to see them."

Gu Zhiyao added, "And your great-uncle, he and your great-aunt miss you too."

"I will." A hint of warmth appeared in Gu Zhiqian's eyes.

"I've delivered the message, but unfortunately I have to go to work and can't go with you," Gu Zhiyao said regretfully.

"Going to work means no freedom, sigh," she remarked.

With the rapid pace of social development and the increase in private enterprises, the so-called "iron rice bowl" is no longer available. Through observation, Lin Zhao noticed that many people seemed more tired and their energy was not as good as before.

She couldn't say whether it was a good thing or a bad thing, she could only sigh.

Life has improved, and it's not so difficult to eat meat and wear new clothes anymore, so why are people unhappy instead?

They all looked like puppets.

Lin Zhao felt that this situation would worsen. She was just a grain of sand in the era and couldn't change anything. She could only try her best to influence the people around her and help them avoid some detours.

"Your job is pretty good," Lin Zhao said to Gu Zhiyao. "You have regular hours, high pay, and good benefits. Be content."

Gu Chenghuai also said, "You will always have a way out. Even if you don't work, you will never go hungry in your life."

"I know, I was just expressing my feelings. Work hasn't affected my mood," Gu Zhiyao quickly explained, noticing the looks in her parents' eyes.

She's really not a pitiful little thing.

The job is really good.
-
The next day.

Upon learning of Gu Zhiqian's return, several groups of people from the Gu family arrived early in the morning.

They were all arranged marriages for him.

Lin Zhao dismissed one after another.

I was just about to get a sip of water when another one came.

"Is Lin here? I haven't disturbed you, have I?" The visitor arrived uninvited and stood at the door, looking around.

Lin Zhao looked speechless. "Sorry to bother you."

The person who spoke smiled awkwardly, but didn't leave.

She walked in, sat on the sofa, and said, "Sister Lin, I've come here with some good news."

Lin Zhao's expression was indifferent. "Oh? I, the lady of the house, didn't know about my family's happy occasion. I had to be told by someone else. I'm such a failure as a family."

These words, neither too serious nor too mild, made the visitor's eyelids twitch.

Thinking of the hefty referral fee, she stubbornly refused to leave, laughing and replying, "Lin, you're really joking."

"Are you playing dumb with me...?"

She dared not keep them in suspense any longer and went straight to the point: "I'm here to propose marriage for your Zhiqian. What could be better than a good thing? Don't you think so?"

Lin Zhao had nothing to say; she didn't want to speak.

I've already sent several people away; I just want to be alone for a while!
The speaker didn't seem embarrassed and continued, "The girl I'm talking about is well-behaved, pretty, and a nurse at the military hospital. Her family is well-off; both her parents are government officials. She's about the same age as your Zhiqian, so she's a perfect match for him. What do you think?"

"I don't think so," Lin Zhao replied with four words, his impatience almost overflowing.

"At least let the two kids meet. Maybe they'll hit it off. Your Zhiqian isn't getting any younger. If you don't find someone soon... all the good girls will be married off." The matchmaker continued to persuade him.

"So what?" Lin Zhao retorted.

"How can a person not get married..."

“Why not? Does the law require marriage?” Lin Zhao interrupted her rambling. “His father and I don’t have any requirements for our children in this regard. They can get married if they want, or stay single if they don’t. It’s all up to them. You’ve probably made a wasted trip here, sister-in-law.”

Seeing her resolute gaze, the matchmaker knew better than to say anything more, lest she offend someone.

She gave a slight smile. "Okay, Lin, feel free to come find me anytime if you need anything. I'm heading back now."

Lin Zhao stood up, watched the person leave, then plopped down and rubbed his temples.

"This is so early in the morning...it's really a headache."

Gu Zhiqian approached, sat down next to Lin Zhao, and massaged her head.

"I'm sorry to have troubled you with my matter," he said apologetically.

Lin Zhao pulled her son's hand down, patted Gu Zhiqian's hand, and said reproachfully, "Why are you being so polite with me? I was just dealing with a few people, it didn't take much effort."

It's just annoying.

Some people act like they have nothing better to do than stare at other people's business, all in a lecturing tone.

As I said before, she doesn't urge her children to get married, so why should outsiders interfere? They're being far too nosy.

"Mom, if I never get married, will you feel ashamed?" Gu Zhiqian asked.

He hadn't thought about it.

But I only found out today that no matter how outstanding he is, his mother is also under pressure for him not to get married.

"How could that be!" Lin Zhao said with a face full of disapproval. "You are my pride, and the four of you siblings are the greatest pride of my life. If you don't want to get married, then you don't have to. What's wrong with that? I said a long time ago that I don't force you to get married. You can choose the lifestyle you like."

"Also, marriage is not a task or a target that must be completed. It should be something you want to do, something you feel will make you happy, not something you do for the sake of face or because you feel you should. What does 'should' mean? There aren't that many 'shoulds'."

Her eyes were gentle. "I just want my child to be happy. Everything else is meaningless and I don't care about anything else."

Gu Zhiqian's dark eyes seemed to light up as he looked at Lin Zhao. "Mom, I don't want to get married. I want to dedicate my life to scientific research. What do you think?"

"I think it's great," Lin Zhao said without hesitation. "As long as you're happy."

After saying that, she smiled leisurely, "I had already thought of that."

"Hmm?" Gu Zhiqian asked, sounding puzzled.

Lin Zhao didn't say anything more.

Because Qianbao is too smart, there are very few people in this world who can keep up with him. They don't even have a common language, so how can he find a partner?
Gu Zhiqian saw the answer in his mother's eyes and didn't ask any further questions.

He has the most enlightened parents in the world, which is the most important treasure in his life.

(End of this chapter)