Chapter 51: Preparing to Return to School
Chapter 51: Preparing to Return to School
Gong Xianjin took the letter, carefully opened the envelope, quickly read it, folded it up, and put it back in the envelope.
"Zhou Jiefang's matter should be resolved properly soon! Go back and tell him to prepare to return to school and continue his studies. Although no official notice has been issued yet, the list of educated youth who have been approved to return to school has been finalized, and Zhou Jiefang is on it. He just needs to stay at home and wait for the notice to return to school to arrive."
Gong Xianjin looked delighted and said with a cheerful smile.
"Not only that, his parents' transfer orders to return to the city have also been issued. You know, his father is a professor in the physics department, so his return is probably not far off. As for his parents' transfer orders, it seems they have already been issued."
After a brief pause, Gong Xianjin continued, "However, the situation regarding his elder brother is still under review. But I imagine it won't be long before the whole family is reunited in the capital!"
"Is that really true? I'm so happy! I'm overjoyed! It's even more exciting than being able to return to the city myself!"
Zhao Yuan could not hide his excitement and happily replied.
"Haha, since that's the case, why don't we go and have a few drinks together to celebrate? Now that we're in the capital, it's only right that I host the event."
Gong Xianjin said happily.
"Brother Zhao, have you ever thought about taking the college entrance exam? I heard Zhou Jiefang talk about it, and he raved about you! Especially your English and chemistry scores, which are simply outstanding and truly remarkable!"
As Gong Xianjin walked forward with light steps, he turned to Zhao Yuan beside him with great interest and asked a question.
Upon hearing this, Zhao Yuan frowned slightly, a hint of helplessness and bitterness appearing on his face, and slowly said:
"Sigh... Brother Gong, to be honest, I've decided to give up on taking the college entrance exam. After all, I have three young children to feed and a wife to take care of. My only decent subjects are English and chemistry. Even if I did get into university, given our current financial situation, I'm afraid we wouldn't be able to afford the tuition and other expenses. So, instead of indulging in unrealistic dreams, it's more practical to work hard and earn money to support my family."
After saying this, Zhao Yuan sighed softly, his eyes revealing a firm yet slightly regretful expression.
However, at that moment, the somewhat somber atmosphere was suddenly broken by Zhao Yuan's next words. He smiled broadly and said to Gong Xianjin:
"However, Brother Gong, although I may never have the chance to study at Peking University, I've at least had the opportunity to meet Professor Gong and Zhou Jiefang from your esteemed institution, so I guess I'm connected to Peking University! How about this, let's go to the university cafeteria together for a meal? Hehe, everyone says Peking University is a dream destination for countless students. Since I'm destined to miss it, being able to have a meal there and experience the atmosphere of Peking University life can at least make up for some of my regrets!"
At the end, Zhao Yuan couldn't help but burst into laughter, his eyes sparkling with excitement and anticipation.
Upon seeing this, Gong Xianjin was taken aback for a moment, then readily nodded in agreement:
"Haha, no problem! Let's hurry up and head to the cafeteria to try the delicious food there!"
Before they finished speaking, the two exchanged a smile and then stepped into the spacious, bright, and bustling cafeteria of Beijing University...
After finishing the meal, Zhao Yuan bid farewell to Gong Xianjin.
"Thank you, Brother Gong. I look forward to seeing you again next time."
"Definitely. Next time I come to Beijing, I'll drink with Zhou Jiefang until we drop. Today was a bit rushed."
Gong Xianjin said.
After leaving Peking University, Zhao Yuan headed straight for Xidan, wanting to see how bustling Xidan had become.
Despite the lack of advanced technology, the prosperity of Xidan was already evident. People dressed in simple but neat clothes walked briskly but orderly along the streets of Xidan.
Billboards on utility poles showcase the latest products and technologies, while dappled sunlight filters through the sky, illuminating the rustic blue-brick buildings and red doors and windows.
The signs of time-honored shops swayed gently in the breeze, and the occasional shouts of traditional craftsmen could be heard.
The old tram slowly passed by the intersection of Xisi Road, and the bicycle bells on the roadside rang out one after another. The sound of bicycle bells and the conversations of pedestrians intertwined, forming a unique melody of this era.
Street vendors called out their wares, attracting the attention of passersby with fresh fruit, steaming hot buns, and various handicrafts.
Children played in the streets, while adults browsed various daily necessities in the shops, their faces beaming with longing for a better life.
Zhao Yuan strode into a bustling shopping mall. His heart was filled with love and care for his family, and he prepared to choose special gifts for them.
The first thing that catches the eye is the wide variety of books. Zhao Zhaodi loves books the most, and Zhao Yuan carefully searches for books suitable for her.
After careful selection, he finally found a beautifully illustrated fairy tale book. The book is brightly colored and beautifully illustrated, seemingly transporting children to fantastical worlds. He believes Zhao Zhaodi will love this delightful gift.
Next, Zhaoyuan went to the toy counter, his eyes immediately drawn to an adorable plush doll. This doll had soft hair and a sweet smile, just like a real little princess. He knew Zhaolaidi would definitely love this doll; she adored the doll he bought for her last time, even designing all sorts of beautiful clothes and hairstyles for it herself. Thinking of this, Zhaoyuan bought the doll without hesitation, eagerly anticipating the look of surprise on his daughter's face when she received the gift.
Then, Zhaoyuan went to the clothing section, wanting to choose a special gift for his wife, Lin Fangfang. He immediately took a liking to an exquisite silk scarf. The scarf was soft and smooth, embroidered with beautiful patterns. Zhaoyuan imagined how beautiful and charming Lin Fangfang would look wearing it, and couldn't help but smile happily.
Finally, Zhao Yuan didn't forget the youngest member of his family—infant Zhao Nana. He went to the baby supplies section and carefully selected a small, exquisite rattle. This rattle was brightly colored and had a clear, melodious sound, which could accompany Zhao Nana through happy times.
After selecting gifts for all his family members, Zhao Yuan felt incredibly gratified. But he didn't stop there; instead, he continued browsing through the mall, searching for more delicious food to bring home.
As he passed a long-established Beijing snack shop, an enticing aroma wafted towards him. Unable to resist the temptation, Zhaoyuan went inside and bought a pound of sweet and soft donkey rolls, a pound of smooth and delicate pea flour cakes, and a pound of uniquely flavored aiwowo (glutinous rice cakes). These were all local specialties that were hard to find in his hometown, and he couldn't wait to let his wife and daughters taste these delicacies from Beijing.
Zhao Yuan walked out of the mall laden with bags and packages, his heart filled with a sense of accomplishment and happiness.
These gifts, though not expensive, contained his deep love and concern for his family. Filled with joy, Zhaoyuan embarked on his journey home, eager to share this happiness with his family.
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