Rebirth: Sensational Military Wife in 70s...

Chapter 7: Another Date (Part 1)

Lu Weiguo had mentally prepared himself for the possibility of the woman's shocked scream at any moment. Seeing Shi Father and Shi Mother's reactions confirmed his expectations.

His gaze was initially not on the main character of the date, as he was concerned that his appearance might frighten her. However, this time, he did not hear any terrified shrieks.

Feng Wei was aware of the intimidating effect Lu Weiguo's face could have and was momentarily hesitant to speak, afraid of further alarming the family. The atmosphere grew a bit tense, with the other diners in the restaurant casting curious glances their way.

Some observant patrons, noticing the setup, guessed that this might be a blind date. Given the contrast between the woman's ethereal beauty and the man's stern appearance, they felt a pang of regret.

Shi Tingyu, feeling the scrutiny, took her parents' hands and spoke up, "Comrades Feng and Lu, this is my father and mother."

Her words seemed to serve as a signal. Feng Wei regained his conversational demeanor, and Lu Weiguo's tense demeanor slightly eased.

For the first time, Lu Weiguo focused on the woman he was supposed to meet. Shi Tingyu's exceedingly beautiful face caught his eye, causing his narrow, sharp gaze to flinch.

As the surrounding noise faded, all he could see was her face, which was gently illuminated with a smile. Feng Wei noticed Lu Weiguo's dazed expression and nudged him, prompting Lu Weiguo to respond.

Maintaining a stiff demeanor, Lu Weiguo greeted Shi Father and Shi Mother. "Uncle, Auntie, hello. I'm Lu Weiguo."

Shi Mother hesitated to shake his hand, so Shi Father took over the task. Shi Mother, worried, glanced at her daughter.

Shi Tingyu, however, was unfazed by Lu Weiguo's appearance and smiled warmly, showing no sign of being affected by his looks.

Feng Wei directed Shi Tingyu to sit across from Lu Weiguo. Lu Weiguo sat upright, his hands resting on his knees, occasionally rubbing them slightly. His dark eyes, sharp and focused, were fixed intently on the woman across from him.

Shi Tingyu felt the weight of his gaze acutely. When their eyes met, she noticed his eyes shift slightly away, revealing his discomfort. This subtle reaction was only apparent to her due to her sensitivity to people's emotions.

At that moment, the waiter announced that the food was ready. Lu Weiguo promptly stood up and went to the window to fetch the dishes.

Observing the bowls and chopsticks, Shi Tingyu instinctively rinsed them with hot water. When Lu Weiguo returned and saw her handling the bowls, he extended his arm to take the bowl from her.

Shi Tingyu noticed that his ears had turned red. She handed him the bowl with a soft, "Oh," and he took it without getting too close, keeping a slight distance between their hands.

Shi Tingyu's eyes briefly lingered on Lu Weiguo's hands—large, rough, and calloused. The sight was more striking than any hands she had previously drawn.

The emotional impact was fleeting, and by the time she looked up again, Lu Weiguo had already disposed of the water used for rinsing the utensils and had returned with a glass of water, washing all the other utensils at the table.

Feng Wei watched in astonishment as Lu Weiguo performed these meticulous actions, almost unable to believe his eyes. This level of attentiveness was unusual for Lu Weiguo.

After the bowls and chopsticks had been rinsed, everyone began to eat. Lu Weiguo and Feng Wei ate rapidly, finishing their meals in mere minutes.

Shi Father and Shi Mother, seeing this, also put down their utensils, focusing on the purpose of their visit: the matchmaking. Whether they were full or not was secondary.

Shi Tingyu followed suit, putting down her chopsticks once she was no longer hungry.

Realizing their apparent eagerness to finish, Feng Wei cleared his throat and attempted to smooth things over. "We soldiers are used to eating quickly. Please, take your time and don't feel rushed."

Lu Weiguo glanced at Shi Tingyu and added, "Please, eat at your own pace."

His voice was low, with a rough, gravelly quality that hinted at his serious nature.

Shi Tingyu, taking his words to heart, continued to eat until she felt satisfied, then put down her bowl and chopsticks.

When it was clear that Shi's family was done eating, Lu Weiguo began sharing details about himself.

"I'm Lu Weiguo, a battalion commander in the Jinling Military Region. I'm 28 years old, and my parents work back in our hometown in the Eastern Province."

Shi Tingyu listened attentively.

Feng Wei observed closely, noting that Shi Tingyu did not appear shy or overwhelmed. There was no indication of the instant infatuation that sometimes occurs at such meetings.

He also noted Lu Weiguo's unexpected proactive attitude. Considering Shi Tingyu's beauty, it was only natural for Lu Weiguo to be more forward.

Shi Tingyu then asked, "Do you have any siblings?"

"I have an older brother who is married. I have a nephew who is eight years old and in the first grade."

Shi Tingyu nodded, interpreting from Lu Weiguo's knowledge about his nephew that he maintained a close relationship with his family, despite his military duties and limited communication in that era.

Lu Weiguo continued, "I am currently a full battalion commander, with a monthly salary of 101 yuan. There are additional allowances for missions."

"If our relationship progresses and deepens, you would be able to live in the family quarters with the troops after marriage."

"Whether you work or stay at home, I will respect your choice."

Shi Tingyu's eyes brightened. She was relieved to hear that if they married, she would not be pressured into working against her will. Lu Weiguo's terms were appealing: no need to care for in-laws, a choice in employment, a decent salary, and an honest character. Despite his stern appearance, he seemed genuine.

She was also satisfied with his physical appearance. She was not one to change her aesthetic preferences based on others' opinions. Lu Weiguo's well-built physique would be appealing to many women in any era.