201
Instructor Yan, Company Commander Geng, and the other company leaders had noticed Tao Zhigang's abnormal behavior.
One day, Instructor Yan, who was the secretary of the party branch, officially represented the company branch to talk to Tao Zhigang." Sigh, why is Tao Zhigang staying at home alone and not going out to have a gathering with everyone?"”Instructor Yan asked with concern when he stepped into the reconnaissance class and saw Tao Zhigang lying alone in the room in a bad mood.
"Uh, Instructor Yan, it's you.”Hearing Instructor Yan's voice, Tao Zhigang sat up reluctantly." I've had a headache these two days.”
"Oh, then you should look for the team doctor?”Instructor Yan walked forward with concern and touched Tao Zhigang's forehead with his hand." But it's okay. It doesn't look like a fever."”
"Instructor, please have a seat." Tao Zhigang gestured to an orange beside him.
"Yes." Instructor Yan then sat down." Tao Zhigang, other than your headache, do you have any other problems?”
"Uh, no, no other problems.”Tao Zhigang denied.
"Is there really no other problem? I see that you've been a little off since you came back from the training team. You've been listless all day and seem to be very depressed, as if you're suffering from a burden.”
"Uh, no, no, Instructor, I don't have any mental baggage.”Tao Zhigang tried his best to cover it up.
"Actually, we all know that you were called out and criticized because you delayed the competition to accompany your family to Shanghai at the end of the training team. You felt embarrassed when you returned to the company, right?”The instructor finally revealed Tao Zhigang's thoughts.
"Cough, I really can't figure it out.”Tao Zhigang said in frustration," It was such a coincidence that I was delayed from returning to the team to take part in the competition because I had to send my family off.”
"Tao Zhigang, don't always think about the mistake you made at the end of the training team. As far as we know, you performed well in most of the early stages of the training team. Whether it was in the special training of scouting and capturing prisoners, or in the water to strengthen physical training, participate in group learning and competition activities, or abide by the team rules and discipline, he still did a good job. Especially from your training results and competition rankings, your performance is still quite outstanding.”In response to Tao Zhigang's paranoia, Instructor Yan helped him analyze and conclude with encouragement.
"Sigh, this time, I feel like I've let down the company and everyone.”After a pause, Tao Zhigang asked with concern,"In addition, I'm also worried that the mistake I made at Chongming training this time will affect my application to join the party organization.”
"Tao Zhigang, the matter is already in the past. Don't keep hiding behind the bull's toes. It's not good to act so dejected and worried. Now that he had returned to the company, the most important thing was to look at himself again, completely let go of the burden of thinking, and strive to go into battle lightly. He could not be depressed because of a small mistake above, which would delay his greater progress below.”
Instructor Yan finally stood up and was about to end the conversation." As long as you can learn from this lesson, dispel your worries, cheer up, continue to work hard to create conditions, and strive to get closer to the party organization, I think the party organization will still welcome you very much.”
After listening to Instructor Yan's warm words of comfort and looking at his stalwart figure as he walked out of the door, Tao Zhigang was so touched that tears welled up in his eyes. His heart suddenly felt a lot better.
Tao Zhigang, who had put down the burden of his thoughts, integrated himself into the company's collective life with a new attitude. He continued to invest in a series of activities such as standing guard, labor training, and duty with the soldiers.
As the calendar flipped, the end of the year approached day by day. It was also the third year of Tao Zhigang's military service on Hengsha Island. According to the relevant regulations, he could now apply for home leave. He could then go to the civil affairs department with his lover, Yao Cuiping, to register a marriage certificate.
202.
However, just as Tao Zhigang was looking forward to a bright future, the tension at the southern border had also escalated from a local friction to a full-scale one. This had affected the pulse of millions of soldiers and civilians in our country, and even the entire army. As the Chinese government issued warnings and followed the central arrangements, the various military regions had secretly mobilized their troops and entered a state of combat readiness.
Tao Zhigang's island unit was the same as the entire military unit. They began to invest in an unprecedented activity of " actively mobilizing the front line and signing up to participate in the war." Tao Zhigang took this opportunity to work hard and gamble. He wanted to avenge the fact that he was called out and criticized by the Chongming Island training team for delaying his return to participate in the competition. He wanted to regain his glory and rewrite a new chapter in his life.
Then, he realized that his promise to visit his family at the end of the year and settle the marriage registration with his lover, Yao Cuiping, would eventually come to naught. Just as she had expected," I don't know what changes will happen to us when the Spring Festival comes this year."”
Following that, Platoon Leader Wei, Tao Zhigang, Guo Yunlong, Pan Yue, Chen Juntao, Zhang Hu, and the others were approved by the higher-ups to participate in the "Central South Counterattack" and became the "most lovable people of the new generation in China". After they went to the front line in Yunnan, a series of dramatic changes happened in their lives. It was exactly what Tao Zhigang recalled when he came back from Yunnan by car...
203
" Oh-" The train stopped and roared again. Tao Zhigang, who had attracted attention, ended most of his memories since he became a soldier. What made him sigh deeply was that the life he and his comrades had gone through in the army could be said to have gone through hardships, life-and-death tests, and bloody battles. This was something that ordinary people could not experience.
At this moment, dusk had fallen and the sky had already turned dark.
Tao Zhigang looked out of the window and saw a "Jiangcheng Station" stop sign. It reminded Tao Zhigang that they had already arrived at Jiangcheng City. It was time to take a long-distance bus.
He quickly woke Gao Jun." Gao Jun, wake up. We're at Jiangcheng Station. Get ready to get off."”
"Ah, we're already at Jiangcheng Station?" Gao Jun, who had attracted his attention, quickly rubbed his sleepy eyes and looked outside in surprise." Sigh, Zhigang, if you didn't wake me up in time, I might have overslept."”
"Yes, I saw that you were sleeping soundly during the journey, so I didn't have the heart to wake you up early.”Tao Zhigang took his luggage from the rack and urged Gao Jun to hurry up and bring his things. He was going to take the long-distance bus.”
"It's already so late. How can we take the long-distance bus?”Gao Jun followed Tao Zhigang to pick up his luggage and came to the joint carriage. He looked at the gradually late weather through the window and said.
"Uh, yes, I didn't think of it just now. It's so late, so there might be no overtime bus.”Tao Zhigang suddenly understood. I was so focused on getting home that I forgot that there would be no buses at night.”
"Haha, I see that you are eager to return home. You are so anxious that it is as if you have lost your mind.”Gao Jun took the opportunity to mock.
"I'm the only one who's anxious. Aren't you?"
"Yes, I'm in a hurry too, but the journey is so long. We have to go through several turns by car. What's the use of being in a hurry?”
"Haha, no wonder. I saw that you could keep your composure. You slept in the car like you were in a daze and almost missed getting out of the car.”At this moment, Tao Zhigang also took the opportunity to mock Gao Jun.
"Hahaha, yes, it seems that we are both the same. It's as if we have been muddle-headed all the way.”
Gao Jun and Tao Zhigang followed the crowd to Jiangcheng Station.
"Then we should go find a hostel.”Tao Zhigang was the first to mention.
"Yes, find a hotel, have a meal, take a good shower, and have a good night's sleep.”Gao Jun looked relaxed.
"I'll get up tomorrow and take the early bus. Then, I'll be able to go home leisurely.”Tao Zhigang quickly added with joy.
204
After getting off the train, Tao Zhigang and Gao Jun took the bus to a small hostel near the Jiangcheng Long-Distance Coach Station.
At night, Tao Zhigang couldn't help but think of Yao Cuiping, who he had dated five or six years ago, who had studied at the Jiangcheng International Language Institute in the city. As time passed, Yao Cuiping had already married and had children, while he had just returned alone. It could be said that " the peach blossoms are still the same, but the person is not the same." Everything had become a thing of the past.
Although Tao Zhigang felt a chill in his heart, he still felt regretful that he could fulfill his life's persistent pursuit and repay his motherland.
、、、、、、、
205.
Early the next morning, Tao Zhigang and Gao Jun, who had rested for a short night and were slightly relieved of their fatigue, took their tickets and continued to take the long-distance bus to South Edict.
Tao Zhigang and Gao Jun, who were sitting in front of the car window, looked at the fields, mountains, and rivers on the land of their hometown. They felt especially close to each other.
"Sigh, Zhigang, in another two to three hours, we'll really be home.”Gao Jun said with a sigh,"It's been more than ten years since we last met!"”
"Cough! "Isn't that so? It's really time to miss home. I don't know how many times my parents and siblings have been looking forward to me, especially my old mother at home. I don't know how many times she has looked at me," Tao Zhigang said bitterly.
" Sigh, Zhigang, we're almost home. Don't mention these sad things in the past. It's so intoxicating that I'm about to cry again..." Gao Jun couldn't help but feel a little sad and choked."Let's talk about something happy when we get home, so that our family won't feel even sadder when they see us coming back with a sad face.”
"Yes, Gao Jun, what you said makes sense. We're almost home. We want to show them a triumphant return to comfort our loved ones.”After hearing Gao Jun's touching words, Tao Zhigang suddenly came to a realization.
As the long-distance bus traveled unsteadily and saw the familiar roads along the way, Tao Zhigang couldn't help but recall the time when he signed up for the army and wore green military uniforms with Gao Jun, Huo Dayong, Liu Tiezhu, Pan Yue, and other fellow countrymen to board the train to the Shanghai Garrison Guard.
206.
Thinking back to being a soldier, Tao Zhigang had a different feeling in his heart.
He had an indissolvable bond with the soldiers. It was in the second half of the 1970s when Tao Zhigang was sent to a small mountain village in southern Fujian as an intellectual youth. When he was in Class 7, he began to muster his courage and made up his mind to realize his dream of becoming a soldier in the army.
It was in the second half of the first year when Tao Zhigang received the news of the autumn recruitment. As the only educated youth, he resolutely submitted an application to his brigade, requesting to actively enlist in the army. However, when he was reported to the Commune to participate in the physical examination, he was rejected by an unwritten clause that he could not join the army for less than two years due to the limited number of recruits allocated at that time.
At that time, Tao Zhigang felt a little angry, but he was not discouraged. He continued to work hard in the countryside and continued to create good performances. When the autumn recruitment began in the second half of the second year, he went to the brigade with confidence again. Then, he passed the physical examination and political examination smoothly. When he was about to be officially recruited, he was persuaded and mobilized to carry forward his style because of the limited number of places allocated by the Commune and Brigade at that time. He had no choice but to give up the spot to the relatives of the officers who were in the same brigade.
However, Tao Zhigang still did not give up. He continued to follow the path of being a soldier and persisted until the second half of the third year. Finally, there was a new opportunity to sign up for the army.
At this time, the country's political situation changed. The new central leadership replaced the old system, and a wave of reforms was set off on all fronts. The college entrance examination system was immediately restored in education, and the various "five schools" were demoted to the countryside. The educated youths in Class 7 were also facing the prospect of being promoted. It was in such a time full of bright prospects and great opportunities that Tao Zhigang chose to be a soldier.
As he had been sent to the countryside for training for nearly three years, he had already reached the age of 20 years old. In order to avoid another accident, he racked his brains to find a brigade leader and begged them to hide his age by one year. Then, as in previous years, he went through a physical examination, political examination, and finally, he was admitted as he wished. Finally, he realized his dream.
However, when Tao Zhigang was faced with the prospect of applying for a university or getting a promotion, he still chose to join the army. Some teachers, classmates, and educated friends who were familiar with him felt that it was incomprehensible. They even thought that he was stupid.
Indeed, Tao Zhigang himself had already been sent to the countryside for three years. He had endured many hot and cold days, wind and rain, and the hard work of training. Now, he had to go to the army for a few more years and experience an even more rigorous life and death test. Moreover, it would also delay his age and delay his future family.
Tao Zhigang's mother especially felt sorry for her son. Seeing that it was his turn to be promoted and get a chance to apply for university, how could she bear to let him sign up for the army again? She could not help but feel her heart ache. She wanted to try her best to persuade her son. He had already been demoted for three years. He could not stand so many crimes in the countryside. Why did he have to suffer in the army again? It would delay his youth and affect his personal marriage in the future.
Mrs. Tao was especially optimistic about her son's academic performance. He had been at the top of his class when he was in primary school, and he had always been in the top three in his class when he was in middle school. Now that the college entrance examination system had been restored, as long as her son studied hard and tried to get into a university, she was confident that he would get a diploma.
Everyone, including his lover and classmates, felt sorry for his decision to join the army. They all wanted to persuade him to give up on enlisting in the army and fill in his college application instead. They were also very familiar with his past studies. According to his past academic results, with the restoration of the college entrance examination system, as long as he studied a little, it was very likely that he would be able to continue to enter university.
However, none of them could persuade Tao Zhigang to become a soldier. He was born to be a stubborn person. Once he decided on a path, even if you sent ten old cows, you could forget about pulling him back...
This was also due to the influence of his love of watching feature films about soldiers fighting when he was a child. Later, when he was in middle school, he liked to read about the Soviet Union. It was related to the edification brought by the famous book " How Steel was Tempered " created by Tolovsky. Gradually, he developed a special liking for soldiers, allowing the idea of being a soldier to firmly take root.
Although most people felt that it was a pity that he had given up on his job, especially the chance to apply for university.
However, because they could not win against Tao Zhigang's stubbornness, they could only give up on arguing with him and retain their personal opinions.
Among them, Mrs. Tao was the first to make concessions. In order to fulfill her son's ideals, not only did she not continue to hold him back, but she also accompanied him to the community to participate in the registration, physical examination, political review, until he was officially accepted as a soldier.
After that, Tao Zhigang's lovers and classmates gave up on persuading him. They compromised and congratulated him, encouraging him, and preparing to send him off.
207.
The news of Tao Zhigang becoming a soldier quickly spread like the autumn wind to the community, brigade, and his parents 'unit.
Especially the small village where he had stayed in seclusion, it was like the golden autumn sun that had risen again. The members of the village were extremely proud of Tao Zhigang for representing their village and becoming a soldier! According to the old man in the village, it had been fifteen years since their village had produced a soldier. Now, only Tao Zhigang, an educated youth who had been demoted, had become a soldier and brought glory to their village.
After a few days of enlistment, Tao Zhigang, who was finally accepted, came to the village in a brand new military uniform. With the help of the two educated youths, they began to pack their luggage and bid farewell to the small mountain village.
After learning of this news, the members who had already prepared to send him off immediately rushed to his "Five. Class Seven, go.
"Tao Zhigang, even if you're a little promising this time, you'll still be able to help our village when you become a soldier.”A middle-aged production team leader patted Tao Zhigang's shoulder and praised him.
"Cough, if you count it, it has been fifteen years since a soldier has appeared in our village.”The accountant of the production team next to the captain also sighed." This has filled in a gap for our village.”
"What's wrong with that? Being a soldier is the duty and responsibility of us young people. I've long had this wish.”Tao Zhigang said calmly to the villagers who came to send him off.
"However, young man, being a soldier is a tough job. You can't regret choosing this path.”At this moment, an old man walked up and patted Tao Zhigang's chest.
"Oh, grandpa, please don't worry. This is the path I chose. How can I regret it?”Tao Zhigang said confidently to the grandpa.
"Zhigang, you've been training in our production team for nearly three years. You've done a lot of good things for everyone, especially in the first line of production and flood control. In addition, you've also made some contributions to solving the problem of the village children going to school and taking care of the elderly in the 'five guarantees' household. You've left a good impression on the villagers..."
"Captain, don't mention the past anymore. That's what we should do when we send educated youths.”Tao Zhigang replied humbly.
"Alright, let's not talk anymore. Now that you're leaving, the team doesn't have anything valuable to give you. We just prepared some gifts for you on the way.”As he spoke, the captain took a big red flower and red satin from the accountant and put it on Tao Zhigang. Then, he took a big bag of food and handed it to Tao Zhigang.
"Oh, Captain, I can accept this red and flowery dress. As for this big bag of gifts, I can't accept it casually. Moreover, the army has rules. Other than the necessary military luggage, other private gifts are forbidden to be brought along.”Tao Zhigang tried his best to avoid explaining.
"Look, this stubborn temper is coming back.”The team leader gestured to the members who were sending him off behind him." This is the goodwill of the members of our production team.”
"That's right, Tao Zhigang. This is the goodwill of our production team members.”Immediately, all the members present responded.
"I appreciate your kindness, but I'll leave the things for you.”Tao Zhigang insisted.
At this moment, the old man in front of him walked to Tao Zhigang's side with a pair of jade birthday cakes."Little Tao, you don't accept things from the government, but you have to bring this pair of jade longevity cakes that I gave you. Do you know what this means?”The old man stuffed the cake into Tao Zhigang's shoulder bag and said mysteriously,"You often help me carry water and grow vegetables. Now that you're leaving, I can't think of anything to give you. I'll choose this pair of cakes. May they bless you to rise in the army every year and be safe every year.”
The grandpa's words immediately caused the entire hall to cheer.
Then, an old woman walked over with a pair of new cloth shoes and a walking stick." Where's Xiao Gang?”
" Oh, auntie, I'm here." Tao Zhigang quickly went forward to help her when he saw the familiar old lady from the village.
"Xiao Gang, are you going to join the army?”The old lady touched Tao Zhigang's body and asked reluctantly.
"Yes, Auntie. I'm a soldier now. I'm leaving, but I'll come back to see you in the future.”
" But auntie still remembers that you helped me feed the pigs many times," the auntie said as she remembered.
"Ahem, auntie, why did you mention that?”
"Oh, that has made auntie feel bad.”
"Aunty, there's no need to return the favor.”Tao Zhigang tried his best to comfort the auntie.
"No matter what, it's a good thing that you're a soldier now. Come, I've given you a pair of 'Thousand Layers Underground'. Bring it to the army and wear it. When the time comes, I'll guarantee that you can travel thousands of miles and win more battles.”
Then, a middle-aged woman walked forward with her child."Zhigang, you've put in a lot of effort to help our child go to school. Now that you're leaving, our family has cooked some red eggs for you to eat on the way. We guarantee that you'll be able to make more contributions in the army and receive more awards.”
The interesting and straightforward words of the two old men and women caused waves of laughter from the fellow villagers who were present to send them off.
After a short pause, the two educated youths who were helping with the luggage came over and reminded Tao Zhigang,
"Oh, Little Tao, your luggage is already packed.”
"Zhigang, it's getting late. We should hurry up and leave.”
"Uh…" Tao Zhigang, who was overwhelmed, finally came back to his senses. He quickly turned to the members who were sending him off and said his final farewell."My fellow villagers, I appreciate your kindness. Please return. I'm going on my way now.”
208.
Then, the captain, accountant, and villagers insisted on escorting Tao Zhigang and his two accompanying educated youths to the village entrance.
Tao Zhigang turned around and said to everyone,""Alright, fellow villagers, please wait.”
At this point, the team leader and accountant finally spoke to the members who were sending them off.
"Alright then, I'll send you here.”
"Everyone, please go back."
Then, they had no choice but to say their final goodbyes to Tao Zhigang.
"Little Tao, I hope that you will work hard in the army and continue to make progress.”
"Then we won't send you off anymore. Have a safe journey.”
"Yes." Tao Zhigang nodded and replied. Suddenly, he remembered something important that would affect his political future." Sigh, Captain, I remember now. I've submitted two applications to the brigade before, and I have a strong desire to join the party organization. I wonder if the brigade branch has discussed it?”
" Yes, I remember that after receiving your application to join the party and understanding your strong desire to join the party organization, the brigade's party branch combined your good performance in cutting the queue and going to the countryside with your full understanding of the party organization. After repeated discussions and research, they decided to report the materials that you have met the requirements to join the party to the Commune Party Committee...
However, I didn't expect that while waiting for this approval, you suddenly proposed to sign up for the army and had already left. In my opinion, it's too late to implement it.”The team leader seemed to be helpless as he replied to Tao Zhigang," Cough, I've been inspected by the organization for two to three years. It's really hard to come by. What a pity.”
"Captain, can you report my situation to the military party?”Tao Zhigang pleaded with the captain.
"Hmm, that's a good idea." At this moment, the accountant looked at the captain and nodded in agreement.
"Okay, then I will go to the brigade's party branch tomorrow to discuss it. Let them sort out the 'application form' that you submitted above and the brigade's party branch's opinion on your joining the party organization and report it to the township party committee for approval into a file. Then, send it to your military party organization.”The team leader comforted Tao Zhigang on the spot." That's it, Tao Zhigang. Don't worry. Don't worry too much. Leave this to me."”
"Alright then. Thank you for your concern for me.”In the end, Tao Zhigang left the small mountain village that had made him suffer for three years with the two educated youths who accompanied him.
209.
Leaving the rural village. Tao Zhigang, from Class 7, took the bus back to his parents 'home.
According to the countdown, there was not much time left before the departure time set by the army. Therefore, he quickly sorted out the items that he really needed to bring at home and the military luggage that was issued to the army.
Tao Zhigang's family was originally a "38" style veteran cadre family. Other than a few pieces of old-fashioned furniture and a few certificates of honor pasted on the wall, there was nothing valuable in the house.
However, Tao Zhigang was born in this family and usually felt very warm. Especially when he was about to be separated from his family, he felt particularly attached.
Just as Tao Zhigang was immersed in sorrow, a group of former classmates and teachers rushed to his home to congratulate him and say their final goodbyes.
Tao Zhigang and his mother were busy entertaining the guests.
"Sigh, Tao Zhigang, you didn't even inform us when you became a soldier and are going to Shanghai.”A middle-aged Mr. Fang with his eyes crossed asked first with humor.
"Teacher Fang, look at what you're saying. It's mainly because time was too rushed and we didn't have time to inform you. "In addition, I also took into account that you guys are busy with work and I'm afraid that I'll take up your precious time.”Tao Zhigang arranged for the teachers and students to sit down and pour tea while explaining tactfully based on the truth.
"Actually, I already guessed that you would still be a soldier.”A girl sitting next to Mr. Fang glanced at Tao Zhigang and said.
"Then why?" Tao Zhigang felt that it was a little fresh and quickly asked.
"Because everyone knows about your stubborn temper. The year before last, you didn't leave. Last year, you didn't leave. This year, you must go for the third test. I remember you once said,'I won't stop until I'm in the army.'”The girl who spoke blushed. She was Yao Cuiping, Tao Zhigang's classmate from junior high and high school. She was eighteen years old, with a pair of phoenix eyes on her oval face. Two short hair strands were tied behind her neck, and her slim figure exuded a youthful aura, making her look very beautiful and moving.
"What, he's been a soldier for three times already?”Teacher Fang couldn't help but be surprised." Tao Zhigang, you really have some determination!”
"He's definitely hiding something about being a soldier.”Yao Cuiping said, knowing Tao Zhigang very well.
"It seems that our Little Yao knows Tao Zhigang the best.”Teacher Fang deliberately teased again.
In fact, Yao Cuiping and Tao Zhigang had already become close friends. When Tao Zhigang and Yao Cuiping were in the same class in school, they had already planted the seeds of their first love. After graduation, they continued to date each other and their relationship deepened.
As the development matured, the relationship between the two finally began to be confirmed. At this time, Tao Zhigang joined the army and was about to go to the Shanghai Garrison Guard. Yao Cuiping could no longer hold back her complicated feelings. She wanted to send Tao Zhigang off before they parted ways. She wanted to settle the matter of the two of them for many years and secretly set a lifelong relationship with her lover Tao Zhigang.
At this moment, with the help of his mother, Tao Zhigang arranged the melon seeds, fruits, and snacks for everyone. Then, he sat down and glanced at Yao Cuiping. He said shyly,"Ha, you can still remember what I said and guess my thoughts. As expected of my close friends.”
"That's true. I remember that when you were in school, you were more energetic than anyone else when it came to military training activities. Whether it was camping, field training, or bombing, you performed better. In addition, you often liked to watch military films and books about the war.”Yao Cuiping, who had admired Tao Zhigang in her early years, steadily weighed two melon seeds in her hands and reminisced about Tao Zhigang's past in school.
"You see, the one who understands you the most in this world is Cuiping.”At this moment, Teacher Fang took a sip of tea and said with a hint of humor and earnestness.
"Teacher Fang, look at what you're saying." Instantly, Yao Cuiping's face turned red from embarrassment.
Tao Zhigang lowered his head in embarrassment.
Following that, everyone pursed their lips and laughed in silence. As for the relationship between Tao Zhigang and Yao Cuiping, the teachers and students present were already well aware of it.
"What's there to be embarrassed about? You guys used to be classmates in the same school, and the two of you have established a relationship for such a long time. Now that Tao Zhigang is in the army, you're going to break up.”Teacher Fang wanted to use this occasion to further clarify the relationship between Tao Zhigang and Yao Cuiping, so that they could be better matched together to achieve their wish.
"Tao Zhigang, you heard what Teacher Fang said.”
"That's right. The two of them are about to break up.”
"Tao Zhigang, as a man, you should take the initiative at this time.”
The other three students tasted the desserts and drank their tea as well.
This made Yao Cuiping and Tao Zhigang feel shy and bury their heads deeper.
"Sigh, Tao Zhigang, when are you guys officially setting off?”In order to ease the atmosphere, Teacher Fang naturally changed the topic.
"Oh, tomorrow morning." Tao Zhigang immediately raised his head and replied.
"Uh, time is quite rushed. It seems that we came at a coincidence. Otherwise, if we were one step late, we wouldn't have been able to see you.”Teacher Fang said, feeling lucky.
After a pause, Teacher Fang sipped his tea and sighed."Cough! Zhigang, in the past, I had high expectations for you in your studies! "When you were in school, your liberal arts results were very good. Now that the college entrance examination system has been restored, as long as you study a little more, you have a good chance of getting into university. However, you chose to join the army and give up literature for martial arts. This is indeed unexpected and regretful.”
"That's right! Now is a good opportunity. With the foundation of your academic performance in school, you can be admitted to a good university with a little bit of effort. When you come out and get a fancy diploma, how popular will it be?”A chubby boy sitting opposite Mr. Fang, who also had a pair of glasses on his nose, peeled an orange and said slowly.
"Cough! Tao Zhigang, it's not that you're unhappy, but as an old classmate, you're really stupid. What's the point of being a soldier now? Isn't it just fulfilling your obligations? Putting aside the hardship and the possibility of sacrificing his life at any time, it was better to prepare to apply for university or stay at home to wait for job assignments. "Moreover, thousands of years ago, Confucius, the teacher, once said,'Parents should not travel far when their children are around.'"Another lively girl with an apple face and shaved ears said directly while munching on melon seeds.
"As Tao Zhigang's old classmate, I don't agree with your idea.'Parents shouldn't travel far when their son is around.' That's an old tradition from the past. Nowadays, men have ambitions everywhere. Moreover, it's currently a period of political change. The college entrance examination system has just been restored, and there are few places. Therefore, I think that it's completely right for Little Tao to choose to be a soldier!”A tall, dark-skinned boy sitting next to Tao Zhigang stood on Tao Zhigang's side and refuted his original opinion.
"Actually, Tao Zhigang wanted to go to the army to fulfill his dreams. He remembered that when he was in middle school, he had read the famous book "How Steel was Tempered" more than once. He admired the master of the book, Paul. Then, he took the initiative to ask for progress and worked hard to create the conditions. Finally, when he was in the third year of junior high school, he gloriously joined the Chinese Youth League.
After that, he often took Paul's inspirational maxim as his motto.”Then, a handsome boy sitting on the other side of the stage, who had long admired Tao Zhigang, also voted in favor of Tao Zhigang's ideals in school. Then, he stood up and walked up to Tao Zhigang." Can you still remember the proverb that Paul wrote?”
"Yes, of course I remember." Tao Zhigang immediately answered frankly.
"Then recite it again, and let us all listen and learn.”At this moment, Teacher Fang, who seemed to have been inspired by the students, suggested on the spot.
"Yes! Let Tao Zhigang recite it for all of us.”
"Yes! Tao Zhigang, recite it again. This way, we can all receive some education and inspiration.”
The teachers and students present followed suit and cheered.
"Everyone is looking forward to you. Why don't you recite it for everyone to hear?”In the end, Yao Cuiping also looked at Tao Zhigang affectionately and said softly to Tao Zhigang.
"Oh, okay, okay, I'll embarrass myself again.”Tao Zhigang, who was praised by everyone and encouraged by his lover Yao Cuiping, stood up and began to recite seriously,
"Life is the most precious thing to humans. Life only belongs to a person once. A person's life should be spent like this: when he looks back on the past, he will not regret his mediocrity and waste his time, nor will he feel guilty for being despicable and living a vulgar life. This way, before he died, he could say,'I have dedicated my whole life and all my strength to the most magnificent cause in the world-the struggle for the liberation of mankind.”
Tao Zhigang finished reciting the main core soul maxim of Paul's book, and then he recited another maxim of Paul's excitedly." Steel is burned in fire and refined in high cooling, so it is very strong. Our generation has also been trained in struggles and hardships, and we have learned to never be discouraged in life.”
"Oh, good, good recitation!”
"Tao Zhigang, you have a good memory."
After hearing Tao Zhigang's perfect recitation, all the teachers and students present clapped and cheered.
In particular, Teacher Fang said emotionally,"Cough! Tao Zhigang, I really couldn't tell that you were a fan of Paul. Look at how muddle-headed I am as a teacher. I always hoped that you would have some achievements in your studies, but I didn't expect you to have other ambitions. Now I understand.”
Then, the two students who didn't understand Tao Zhigang earlier also expressed their apologies." So Tao Zhigang had his own reasons for choosing to join the army. It really can be said that everyone has their own aspirations and can't be forced. It seems that although we are Tao Zhigang's old classmates, we don't really understand him.”
At this moment, Mother Tao, who had been busy outside, walked into the house and greeted him." Oh, Zhigang is ready to eat. Help me clean up the table."”Then, she turned to the teachers and students and said," Sigh, tell him. Don't even think about talking to him. I know his temper. As long as it's something that he has set his mind on, he will persist to the end. Even if you send ten old yellow cows, don't even think about pulling him back.”
"Yes, his aunt is right. Tao Zhigang was a little stubborn in school.”
"Especially when it comes to studying.”
"That's good. If a person wants to improve, they have to have a strong drive.”
"However, a person with a bad temper like him has a good or bad personality. The good thing is that he can maintain integrity and persevere to the end. The bad thing is that he always loses out in the end.”
"Hahaha…"
Mother Tao's words caused the teachers and students to laugh and cheer.
As Tao Zhigang and his classmates cleaned up the table, they saw Tao Zhigang's sister-in-law helping their mother serve wine and food.
Then, Tao Zhigang accompanied the teachers and students to a banquet. Then, under the arrangement of Teacher Fang's camera, they took a few more group photos together as a memento. They were busy until the next night. The teachers and students who sent them off left gifts before leaving.
Before they parted, under everyone's suggestion, Yao Cuiping was the only one who stayed behind to accompany her lover Tao Zhigang for another night to exchange more feelings with him.
210.
The night was quiet and the moonlight was bright.
Tao Zhigang and Yao Cuiping were quietly walking along the mountain path lovingly. At this moment when they were about to part, they were so reluctant to part.
Soon, they entered a pine forest.
The stream gurgled and the silver light blew.
Yao Cuiping and Tao Zhigang naturally chose a slightly larger patch of grass and sat down.
"Little Yao, I chose to be a soldier this time. Maybe I disappointed you?”Tao Zhigang asked Yao Cuiping.
"I'm fine, I just feel sorry for you.”Yao Cuiping lowered her head and replied shyly.
After a moment of silence, Yao Cuiping took out a silk bag from her waist and stuffed it into Tao Zhigang's hand." Hey, this is some change I've saved up. Take it to the new recruits for emergency use. I heard that it's very tough to be assigned to the new recruits.”
"Uh, Little Yao, you don't have to do this. I'm a soldier now, how can I use your money? Moreover, we can also receive some allowance when we go to the army.”To Yao Cuiping's surprise, Tao Zhigang refused to accept it.
Yao Cuiping looked at Tao Zhigang in surprise."Zhigang, what's wrong with you tonight?"
"Little Yao, let's break up. Don't continue.”Tao Zhigang suddenly said.
"Why? We've been in a relationship for several years and we get along quite well. Why do you suddenly want to break up? Don't you understand my thoughts?”As she spoke, Yao Cuiping's emotions burst out all of a sudden, and tears flowed down her cheeks." Is it because I'm a soldier now and going to Shanghai that you look down on me for having a change of heart?”
" Cuiping, don't be angry. Let me explain to you slowly. I didn't mean to break up with you. In fact, I like you very much, but I…" Tao Zhigang panicked when he saw Yao Cuiping crying. He accidentally shook off the money in the silk bag that Yao Cuiping had given him. At the same time, the silk handkerchief that appeared in front of Tao Zhigang had a pair of mandarin ducks embroidered on it, which made him feel unusually excited. For this reason, he wanted to explain it to Yao Cuiping.
"But what happened to you?" Yao Cuiping asked anxiously.
" But now that I've joined the army, I have to do my duty to protect my country. We've been separated so far away, and I don't know when I'll be able to come back. It'll be very difficult for us to reunite..."
"What's wrong with that? As the saying goes,'All lovers in the world will eventually get married.' Even if you don't come back immediately, I can still wait for you at home.”
"In addition, you still have to apply for university at home to further your studies. You will be able to obtain a university degree, while I will be a poor soldier in the future. At that time, there will be a big difference between the two of us.”Tao Zhigang intentionally revealed his thoughts to Yao Cuiping.
"That's okay, I'm willing!" However, Yao Cuiping insisted on responding to Tao Zhigang without hesitation.
When they were classmates, Tao Zhigang and Yao Cuiping had attended the same class and helped each other with homework. He had secretly competed with Gao Di before the exam was due; They had worked together to edit articles for the school's sports meet. They had once rehearsed together for an art program in the art publicity team organized by the class. No matter how close they got, how close they got to each other, how much they wanted to be together, but they never dared to step out of the thunder pool. They always restrained themselves and respected each other.
However, as time went on, the feelings hidden deep in their hearts became stronger and stronger. A vague sense of " love " was awakening them, especially when Yao Cuiping became more and more mature. When Tao Zhigang was about to leave her side, she no longer wanted to restrain herself. She changed her reserved attitude and wanted to take the initiative to hug Tao Zhigang.
"Mm, you didn't see it. I personally embroidered this 'mandarin duck painting' handkerchief for you as a memento.”Seeing Tao Zhigang's soft-hearted heart wiping her tears with the silk handkerchief embroidered with mandarin ducks, Yao Cuiping couldn't bear it and quickly took the silk handkerchief to put it away.
"No, I just want to use it to wipe your tears and bring it to the army. When I think of you, I will open it and kiss your fragrant tears to comfort my longing for you.”Tao Zhigang took the handkerchief again and wiped Yao Cuiping's tears.
"My eyes are empty, my tears are empty,
To whom do I cast my shadow and cast it away?
A piece of silk of a ruler's length is presented to you with great kindness,
How can I not be sad for you?
Casting pearls and rolling jades, I only steal the fish,
I have no heart to watch the day, I have no leisure to watch the day.
It is hard to wipe the edge of my sleeve on my pillow,
Let him be dotted with spots.
It's hard to gather the pearls on my face with colorful threads,
the old traces of the Xiangjiang River are already blurred.
In front of the window there are thousands of bamboo poles,
Don't you know that there are no traces of fragrance?"
At this moment, Yao Cuiping gently fell into Tao Zhigang's arms and couldn't help but recite a sentence from 'Dream of the Red Chamber', which was written by Lin Daiyu.
"Sigh, how touching!" When he heard the " three unique sentences of writing a handkerchief " in " Dream of the Red Chamber ", which he was more familiar with, Tao Zhigang felt a heartfelt admiration. He remembered that " this was not the description in " Dream of the Red Chamber " where Baoyu was beaten up by Jia Zheng and heard sorrowful sounds in his sleep. When he woke up, he knew that it was Daiyu." He saw that her eyes were swollen like peaches." He said that his pain was fake and comforted her. After Daiyu left, Baoyu missed her and tried to send Xiren away. He ordered Qingwen to go to see Daiyu in the name of sending two old silk scarves. Daiyu understood the meaning and was very excited. She picked up her pen and wrote the three quatrains on her handkerchief.”
"Yes, you can still remember it. Then you really understand the meaning of the poem and understand my current feelings.”Yao Cuiping asked with a hint of anger.
"I understand, I understand now." Tao Zhigang responded as he straightened Yao Cuiping's body. He took out a jade bracelet from his pocket." Cuiping, look. This is my mother's family heirloom jade bracelet. She specially asked me to bring it to you tonight as a souvenir."”
"I didn't expect you to be so bad!" Seeing Tao Zhigang take out an emerald jade bracelet that looked exceptionally crystal clear under the moonlight, Yao Cuiping immediately acted coquettishly and hammered Tao Zhigang's back to vent her anger.
"Now that you've vented your anger, let me put it on for you.”Tao Zhigang took the opportunity to grab Yao Cuiping's fist.
Yao Cuiping also obediently opened her clenched fist and closed it for Tao Zhigang to put it on.
"How is it? Do you like it?" Tao Zhigang raised Yao Cuiping's delicate hand again and asked.
"Yes, I like it!" Yao Cuiping also raised her hand and nodded in appreciation. Then, she leaned on Tao Zhigang's shoulder in intoxication, immersed in the happy atmosphere of love.
Tao Zhigang took the opportunity to pull Yao Cuiping into his arms again and continued to ask,"To be honest, Cuiping, I'm leaving tomorrow. It'll take a long time and we're so far away. How are you going to keep in touch with me?”
"I can always send you letters and visit you at appropriate times.”
"Yes, I heard from the soldiers that after we have served for three years, we can take home leave. At that time, we can come back to see you.”
"That's right. At that time, we can meet again.”
Tao Zhigang and Yao Cuiping were chatting happily.
" But, I'm afraid that you won't be able to withstand the test and will be swayed..." Tao Zhigang still asked with concern.
"Zhigang-kun, don't worry. I won't waver.”Yao Cuiping said firmly.
Hearing Yao Cuiping's sincere attitude, Tao Zhigang finally couldn't suppress his admiration for Yao Cuiping. He leaned down and kissed her forehead passionately. Her face, lips, and Yao Cuiping was like a rippling spring water, soaking in the feelings of a secret crush that had been in her heart for several years. She closed her eyes in intoxication. Tao Zhigang couldn't help but muster his courage and reach out to touch her bulging breasts. She looked a little panicked, as if she was carrying a jade rabbit, running up and down. As his powerful palms rubbed her charmingly, she began to feel a warm current surge into her heart, and her entire body became limp. Then, he continued to extend his hand downwards. She excitedly hooked his shins and kissed him back over and over again. Finally, she could not stop herself from trembling and panting.
Just like that, for the first time, they hugged each other and stuck together like glue. They were passionately intimate and caressing each other.
Suddenly, a bird's cry came from the forest, interrupting Tao Zhigang and Yao Cuiping's love.
"Zhigang, it's getting late. We should go back. You still have to rush out with the soldiers tomorrow morning.”Yao Cuiping took advantage of the moonlight to look at her watch.
"Okay, then."
"Sigh, Zhigang." Yao Cuiping stepped forward and grabbed Tao Zhigang just as he was about to get up." Zhigang, the heavens are the matchmaker, and the earth is the witness. Tonight, we're officially engaged..."
"Well, alright then. Tonight, we'll be engaged for life.”Tao Zhigang also firmly agreed." From now on, you are my most beloved woman.”
"Well, then you're the man I love the most.”Yao Cuiping immediately responded.
"In heaven I wish to be a bird of hope,"
"I'm willing to be a lotus."
"Forever and ever,"
"My heart will never change."
Then, the two of them made a solemn oath to the Sea Alliance.
Apart from the moonlight reflecting the trickling stream and the birds perched on the branches looking around quietly, the mountain seemed especially quiet. It was indeed very late and it was time for people to go to sleep...
At this point, Tao Zhigang had no choice but to help Yao Cuiping up. The two of them hugged each other for a while before straightening their hair and patting their clothes clean. They smiled knowingly and left the forest.
This book comes from：m.funovel.com。