Back then there was a bully in Heping Village called Wang Laohu. He was the village secretary’s nephew. Relying on his uncle’s influence he tyrannized the village and no one dared stand up to him.
One day Jiang Shuiying went up the mountain alone to cut pigweed. Halfway up Wang Laohu blocked her path. He reached out to touch her face.
Stop that.
A roar rang out from behind the trees. Lu Qingnian rushed forward clutching a firewood knife and stood before her face flushed with anger.
Brother Qingnian Wang Laohu stared. I thought you had left to join the army. Why have you come back.
I haven’t left yet Lu Qingnian’s eyes blazed with fury. Wang Laohu if you so much as touch her I will kill you.
Do not threaten me Wang Laohu snapped back. I am not afraid of you.
They began to fight. Lu Qingnian was young and quick but Wang Laohu was large and powerfully built. They struggled for a long time neither gaining the upper hand. Finally Lu Qingnian seized a stone from the ground and brought it down hard upon Wang Laohu’s head. Wang Laohu howled clutching his head as blood seeped through his fingers.
Just you wait he scrambled away. I will have my uncle arrest you.
Lu Qingnian did not pursue him. He turned and pulled Jiang Shuiying into his arms. It is all right do not be afraid he said his voice trembling. I am here you are safe.
Jiang Shuiying buried her face in his chest and wept aloud.
Later the village secretary did come with men to take Lu Qingnian away. He claimed Lu Qingnian had deliberately assaulted someone and would be sent to the authorities. Villagers gathered around the courtyard and pleaded for him. Qingnian only acted to save someone. Wang Laohu is a brute and got what he deserved. Are you going to arrest people without knowing the truth. Is there no law.
The secretary could not go against the crowd and backed down but he spoke with menace. Lu Qingnian you will pay for this. This is not over.
That night Lu Qingnian’s mother locked him inside the house to keep him from going out.
Jiang Shuiying finished speaking her eyes glistening with tears. Lu Qingnian sat silent his hands slowly clenching into fists. Wang Laohu and the secretary. Those names sounded familiar. And that embrace. The warmth the faint scent of soap on her skin it all felt remembered. He looked up at her moonlight falling across her face. The girl of sixteen and the woman before him merged into one. The same eyes the same strength.
Jiang Shuiying he said softly but firmly. Whatever the reply says whenever it comes I believe you.
Tears welled in her eyes once more.
August arrived and the army prepared a celebration for Army Day. The entire division rehearsed performances and decorated the grounds with great excitement.
One afternoon Lu Qingnian came for dinner and spoke casually. There is a gathering the day after tomorrow evening. Would you and Niannian like to come. He paused surprised by his own invitation.
May we Jiang Shuiying’s eyes lit up.
Yes he said looking down at his food the tips of his ears turning pink. I will ask Wang Jun to reserve seats.
Wonderful Jiang Shuiying beamed. Niannian your father is taking us to the celebration.
Niannian ran from the room and threw his arms around Lu Qingnian. Is it true Old Man.
It is Lu Qingnian replied resting his hand gently on the boy’s head. The soft hair and warmth felt comforting.
On the evening of the celebration Wang Jun came to escort them. Sister‑in‑law Niannian come along. I have secured the very best seats right near the front.
Jiang Shuiying took Niannian’s hand and followed him into the auditorium. It was packed full of people. Red flowers and banners hung above the stage marking the occasion. Wang Jun led them to their seats which indeed offered a clear view of everything. Jiang Shuiying smoothed Niannian’s clothing. He looked around wide‑eyed with excitement.
Mother when will it begin I cannot wait.
Just then a woman in a white coat sat down beside them. It was Zhao Xueting. Jiang Shuiying’s brows drew together.
What a coincidence Zhao Xueting spoke with a hint of sarcasm. I did not expect you would be admitted. Surely this is not an event open to just anyone.
That is a strange thing to say Jiang Shuiying replied calmly. Qingnian invited us.
Zhao Xueting’s expression hardened. You are on such familiar terms. Do not imagine that having a child makes you his responsibility. When that letter arrives your true colours will show.
Jiang Shuiying smiled and said nothing. We shall see she thought.
The program began with choruses dances comic skits and solos. Niannian watched clapping enthusiastically. The eighth performance was announced. Next to perform is Doctor Zhao Xueting from the division hospital with a song called Azalea.
Applause filled the hall. Zhao Xueting glanced triumphantly at Jiang Shuiying before taking the stage. Her voice was sweet and clear earning warm applause. Instead of leaving the stage she held the microphone.
Thank you she said her gaze resting on the front row. This song is dedicated to someone very special. To Battalion Commander Lu Qingnian of the First Battalion.
The audience murmured and turned toward Lu Qingnian who sat frowning. Zhao Xueting continued her tone soft and affectionate. You were injured three years ago and I looked after you. I have been at your side all this time. I hope I may remain there always.
Silence fell then followed by louder applause and calls from the crowd. Be together. Be together.
Zhao Xueting stood on stage looking toward him waiting for an answer. Jiang Shuiying’s fingers tightened in her lap. Niannian squeezed her hand. Mother do not be afraid. He belongs to us.
Jiang Shuiying looked at her son and felt reassured. Yes. This was her man and her child. She had nothing to fear.
Zhao Xueting waited several seconds seeing no response. Brother Qingnian she called out in a sugary tone say something.
The crowd began chanting again. Be together.
Just as Lu Qingnian began to speak Jiang Shuiying stood up. Every eye turned toward her. Lu Qingnian looked around surprised. Holding Niannian’s hand she walked steadily down the aisle toward the stage her head held high and her expression calm and resolute. The hall fell quiet.
Zhao Xueting watched her approach her face paling. What are you doing coming up here.