Raising Cubs in the 1950s [MTL]

Chapter 11-15

Chapter 11

Having found a new job after his outing, Zhang Jianjun was in a good mood. Even the lingering pain of spending money today had diminished considerably.

"Jianjun, you seem to be in good spirits. Did something good happen?" Zhao Lin arrived at the meeting point just as Zhang Jianjun did. Noticing the subtle smile on his face, Zhao Lin took the initiative to inquire.

"Well, something good did happen, and I have you to thank for it!" Zhang Jianjun briefly explained the situation regarding the job offer from the store. However, he didn't disclose the specifics of the work or the compensation, and Zhao Lin understood without pressing further.

"It's all your own ability, Jianjun. It has little to do with me. Ah, those who can read and write are highly sought after!" Zhao Lin still harbored some regret about not learning to read more in his early years. However, his family was poor at the time, and even if he wanted to study, they couldn't afford to support him. It was a matter of circumstance and fate.

"I've been delayed by something. It's been quite a while, hasn't it?" Zhao San arrived late, surpassing the agreed-upon meeting time by the time he reached them. He felt a bit embarrassed about it himself. But Zhang Jianjun and Zhao Lin knew that he wasn't the type to act without reason, so they didn't blame him and offered some comforting words instead.

"I ran into a friend from our previous workplace in the city. He's taken on a big project there and couldn't handle it alone, so he asked if I could help him out. Unexpectedly, our conversation went on longer, delaying our return to the village." Zhao San explained the reason for his tardiness, wearing a smile on his face. It seemed he was quite satisfied with the new job he had found.

None of them were petty individuals, and after the explanations, they began discussing their achievements of the day, chatting and laughing along the way. Finally, when the moon was high up in the sky, they arrived back at Qingshan Village.

"Dad, you're finally back?!" Zhang Jianjun and Zhao Lin hadn't even reached the doorstep when a small figure swiftly ran out from the house and came to Zhang Jianjun's side.

"Dad's back! Didn't Dad promise Xiaojun that he would definitely come back? Why don't you trust Dad?" Seeing his reliant son, Zhang Xiaojun, Zhang Jianjun couldn't help but be touched. He bent down and lifted Zhang Xiaojun onto his shoulders. Fortunately, Zhang Xiaojun didn't have much weight on him, making it easier for Zhang Jianjun to carry him. Otherwise, after a busy day, he truly wouldn't have been able to lift him.

Although initially surprised, Zhang Xiaojun gradually grew accustomed to being on his father's shoulders and was overjoyed in his heart. He had become one of those who had been carried on his father's shoulders, and it made him feel a little excited just thinking about it!

"Aunt, this is the salted fish I bought today. Tomorrow, we can add some flavor to our meals. And this is the grain I bought." Zhang Jianjun handed over the items he had bought today to Zhang Chunlan, keeping the relationship harmonious. He didn't want to be seen as someone who took advantage of others for food and drink. Prolonged dependence could easily lead to conflicts, especially due to poverty. If he wasn't well off himself, how could he afford to support others?

"Jianjun, why be so polite, Auntie doesn't need you to keep buying things for the family. Save some money for yourself. It'll be a long time before Xiaojun gets married and has children!" Since she was addressed as "Auntie," Zhang Chunlan, as an elder, felt the need to worry more. Although she felt a little sorry for Zhang Jianjun, she understood his intentions and eventually spoke her mind.

"Auntie, I understand, but you and Uncle have taken us in, providing us with a shelter. I can't just do nothing. Don't worry, I found a job in the city, and I'll start in a couple of days. I have hands and feet, and I can read a few characters. The times are peaceful now, and with some effort, I can definitely support me and my son." Zhang Jianjun felt grateful for Zhang Chunlan's kindness, and he earnestly replied to her question.