Rebirth: Sensational Military Wife in 70s...

Chapter 8: Another Date (Part 2)

Once Lu Weiguo had finished explaining his situation, Shi Tingyu began to share details about herself.

"I'm Shi Tingyu, twenty-two years old. Besides my parents, I have an older brother who is currently a company commander in the military."

Lu Weiguo already knew these details and nodded in acknowledgment.

Suddenly, Shi Tingyu's expression turned serious. She addressed Lu Weiguo, "What I'm about to say is very important and might influence your decision."

Shi Father and Shi Mother looked at her with concern.

Shi Tingyu fixed her gaze on Lu Weiguo's narrow, sharp eyes and spoke in a low, serious tone, "Our family has a background of studying abroad. Four years ago, we were brought back to the country. Recently, we've been reported, and my parents might be sent to a lower position at any time."

"This might have some impact on you."

Shi Tingyu wasn't sure how much a daughter's family being sent to a lower position would affect her future husband, so she only mentioned it might be a problem.

Lu Weiguo's expression remained unchanged. His voice was still deep and calm. "It's okay. I don't mind."

He was pleased that she was honest with him. With his military achievements, even if Shi's parents were demoted, it wouldn't significantly affect him.

Having joined the military at eighteen, Lu Weiguo had spent most of his service in the battlefields of Vietnam, returning to China only occasionally. His eight years in military service and ten years in total had hardened him, making him resilient to potential problems.

Shi Father, observing Lu Weiguo's sincerity, reassured his daughter, "If it comes to that, you should announce it publicly and sever ties with us. It should not affect your life."

Hearing this, Lu Weiguo was moved by the depth of parental concern. "There's no need to go that far."

Feng Wei chimed in, "Yes, Professor Shi, it's not that serious. Even if it were, married daughters generally aren't affected."

Traditionally, misfortune does not extend to married daughters, and that still holds true.

As time passed and the conversation continued, the restaurant staff's irritated glances made it clear it was time to leave. Shi Tingyu suggested, "Let's head back. The staff might want to clear us out soon."

The group agreed and left the restaurant.

Outside, Lu Weiguo offered to drive Shi Tingyu and her parents home. Shi Father and Shi Mother accepted.

They all climbed into Lu Weiguo's jeep. During the drive, the atmosphere was pleasant, mainly due to the conversation between Shi Father, Shi Mother, and Feng Wei.

Shi Tingyu sat in the back, where she could observe Lu Weiguo's profile in the dim light. The darkness and lack of streetlights allowed her to see only the vague contours of his face—his defined jawline, a mix of severity and roughness.

Lu Weiguo, sensing her gaze from the back seat, felt a bit tense. His previously neutral expression turned colder.

As they neared the residential area, Lu Weiguo couldn't help but ask, "Uncle, Auntie, and Shi Comrade, what do you think of me? Does Shi Comrade want to continue developing this relationship?"

Feng Wei was taken aback. Wasn't it usually his role to mediate and communicate between both sides?

Shi Father and Shi Mother were also surprised. The prolonged silence made Lu Weiguo realize he might have been too hasty.

He decided to express his genuine feelings. "If Shi Comrade and I are to continue, I need to submit a report, and the approval process takes time."

Shi Father and Shi Mother understood that Lu Weiguo was moving forward with genuine intentions. They knew they could not afford to wait too long.

Lu Weiguo, understanding their urgency to find a good match for Shi Tingyu, and impressed by her own qualities, decided to ask directly.

Shi Mother quietly took Shi Tingyu's hand. Shi Tingyu reciprocated the gesture and said to Lu Weiguo, "I think you're quite a good person."

She trusted her judgment. Although it was only their first meeting, she believed a person's true nature could be discerned through their eyes and subtle actions.

Feng Wei was delighted. It was rare for young women to be so direct, and Shi Tingyu's positive assessment was noteworthy.

He happily said, "I'll have Old Lu submit the report right away. I'll keep an eye on the process and push for a speedy review."

Although Shi Father and Shi Mother were still a bit uncertain, they had no choice but to proceed.

"Thank you, Comrade Feng."

Lu Weiguo, considering his duties at the base, said, "I'll draft the marriage report tonight. During the approval period, if you have any concerns or thoughts, feel free to let me know."

Feng Wei added, "If you need anything or want to discuss further, you can come directly to the base."

Lu Weiguo turned his head slightly, his gaze fixed on Shi Tingyu in the darkness. "Shi Comrade, the base may not offer much flexibility for time off in the coming days. I hope you understand."

"It's fine. I understand," Shi Tingyu replied. She knew that military schedules were strict and inflexible.

With everything addressed, everyone felt relieved.

When they reached the research institute's residential area, Lu Weiguo and Feng Wei did not enter. After bidding farewell, Shi's family returned home and held a small family meeting.

The main topic was Shi Tingyu's feelings.

"Xiaoyu, we just want to know one thing: do you genuinely feel that Lu is a good match? Are you not feeling forced?"

Shi Tingyu smiled. "I like his appearance and personality. Such a person is less likely to attract trouble. I'm very satisfied."

With his daughter's affirmation, Shi Father had no more questions. He went to consult with an older colleague from the research institute, Professor Li, who had been working there for over a decade. Professor Li's son was also a company commander in the Jinling Military Region, potentially in the same battalion as Lu Weiguo.

Professor Li provided a thorough account of Lu Weiguo's background. He described him as a heroic figure who, despite being often rejected due to his looks, was a man of great character. His reputation among the soldiers was impeccable, and his family appeared to be supportive, frequently sending care packages.

With this information, Shi Father felt reassured.

Returning home, he intended to discuss the matter further with his daughter but found that she had already fallen asleep.

Shi Father: ...