Chapter: 2754
He Yuanjiang was really happy today. His only daughter had not only escaped danger but had also come back safely. What made him even happier was that this experience had taught her to be more aware of the dangers in the world. She wouldn’t blindly chase unrealistic dreams anymore. Plus, she had promised Charlie Wade that she would stay and help him, which meant they could live together in the safe and comfortable city of Jinling for a long time.
Feeling joyful, He Yuanjiang had a few more drinks. After a few rounds, he started to feel a bit tipsy. He thanked Charlie Wade several times, then turned his attention to his daughter. With a mix of drunkenness and affection, he said, “Zhiqiu, you and Charlie are about the same age, but he has been married for four years. Maybe it’s time you think about your own future?”
He Zhiqiu had sipped on half a bottle of red wine, and although she wasn’t drunk, her cheeks were slightly flushed. When she heard her dad bring up her personal life, she felt embarrassed. “Dad, please don’t worry about that. Many of my friends are still in school. It’s okay to get married in your 30s if you’re still studying.”
Then she suddenly remembered a lie she had told him and quickly added, “Also, have I told you everything about my situation?”
He Yuanjiang looked at her thoughtfully for a moment before sighing. “Even if you like girls, shouldn’t you find a girlfriend at your age?”
“I…” He Zhiqiu was taken aback. She thought her father would bring this up regarding Charlie Wade, and she suddenly felt very uncomfortable.
He Zhiqiu felt embarrassed and didn’t know how to respond. Charlie Wade suddenly remembered what He Yuanjiang had mentioned about He Zhiqiu being quite rebellious and having a different perspective on relationships than most girls.
Thinking about this, Charlie recalled the two female hostages he had seen in Hamid, Syria. Without thinking, he asked, “Zhiqiu… in Syria, didn’t your two female companions have partners?”
He Zhiqiu was taken aback by the question. It took her a few seconds to process it before she replied shyly, “Mr. Ye, what are you talking about? Those are just my classmates… there’s no way I could have a partner…”
Charlie felt relieved upon hearing her response and said, “Oh, that’s good. It’s good if you don’t.”
Meanwhile, He Yuanjiang was sipping wine, feeling a bit bored. He raised his hand and said, “Honestly, I think Dad might be out of touch. This society has changed, and it’s not uncommon anymore. In many countries, including the United States, it’s legal to marry whomever you choose. If you find the right partner, you can get a marriage certificate there.”
He Zhiqiu was extremely embarrassed and quickly responded, “I think you must have had too much to drink. You should drink less!”
He Yuanjiang shook his head and said seriously, “I’m not drunk. I’ve actually wanted to say this for a long time. I just didn’t find the right moment until now, when you’re back safe. I want to take this chance to share my feelings with you.”
Before He Zhiqiu could respond, he continued, “What Dad really wants…”
You can be happy and healthy in your own way; you don’t have to live how I want you to. Life is short, so it’s important to follow what makes you happy. That’s the best way to live.