Huo Jingnian’s lips curved faintly. We will stop at the Civil Affairs Bureau to register later. You can give it to me then.
Qiao Zhiwei nodded. Very well. Only it will be far less expensive than this ring.
Huo Jingnian nodded. Then you can make it up to me later.
Qiao Zhiwei paused. Can you not accept something graciously?
Huo Jingnian considered for a moment then said In this matter you are entering this marriage with me. Everything I provide is naturally my responsibility. Whatever I give you should accept freely without comparing worth or value.
She fell still. Had he truly forgotten the terms and the limited nature of their arrangement? Yet his expression was so soft as if he had stepped fully into the part. Even his usual sharp features had relaxed into something gentle. Or perhaps she was imagining things as she had before. It was a relief that only yesterday he had spoken so plainly before everyone about why he must marry her. Even if her heart was reading more into the moment she would not break the spell. From every angle and whatever his motive his support was a great benefit to her. And he was still the one she owed.
Is there anything here you would like changed he asked.
No it is perfect she answered at once. The room had been designed and arranged with great care.
Is there anything else you would like added he asked again.
Nothing more she said. Everything she could have thought of and everything she had not was already in place. And since their marriage was not real there was no need to trouble him further.
Satisfied Huo Jingnian smiled. Then let us go and collect our marriage certificate.
Yes.
She stepped out and found Qiao Zhilan having tea at the pear wood table in the hall. Zhilan we should be going.
Qiao Zhilan set down her cup and came over smiling. It is clear you are very pleased.
Qiao Zhiwei nodded. Beyond the value of the house itself every detail was beautifully and tastefully finished.
Qiao Zhilan took her arm. Are you going to the Civil Affairs Bureau today? I can go home on my own.
There is no need I will see your sister home to collect something first Huo Jingnian said.
Very well.
The car pulled up at the Qiao family gate. The sisters went inside together. Qiao Zhilan was in bright spirits. I do not know why but seeing how thoughtful he is today I have completely forgiven what he said yesterday. He really is so good for you. He may be practical but he is a hundred times better than Huo Jingchen.
Her moods shifted quickly. Qiao Zhiwei smiled. Try not to dwell on these things.
Why not.
Because if you hope for too much you will only be disappointed when reality does not match your expectations. You saw that only yesterday.
Qiao Zhilan tilted her head. Is it not possible that he spoke those words only for Uncle Huo and the others to protect his reputation?
I already spoke up on his behalf Qiao Zhiwei said. If he had felt even a little differently he would not have set aside our feelings so completely. Everyone there yesterday understood what was said. He could have chosen his words more gently yet he did not. He meant every word for Uncle Huo and for us as well.
Qiao Zhilan’s lips formed a pout. He was telling you that apart from the debt and Grandfather’s kindness you should not expect anything more.
Qiao Zhiwei nodded. Something like that.
Qiao Zhilan fell quiet.
Qiao Zhiwei patted her shoulder gently. It does not matter. What matters is that he is helping us. We should be grateful and not look for something that is not there.
Qiao Zhilan understood. We must focus on earning enough to repay him and finding our parents.
Qiao Zhiwei smiled with relief. Exactly. I will get my gift. Rest here.
She came out with a small box and saw Huo Jingnian waiting by the passenger door. Sit here he said holding it open.
She accepted the gesture without hesitation and got in. Thank you.
He closed the door and returned to the driver’s seat. Where is the gift.
She handed him the box. I saw this belt when Lanlan and I were shopping for clothes. It seemed to suit you so I bought it. I hope you like it.
A belt he smiled.
He opened the box and unfolded it slowly. It was black matte leather with a fine even grain and a heavy silver steel buckle. The sunlight caught the buckle as he turned it casting a bright shifting light across his face and eyelashes like flowing platinum. For a moment Qiao Zhiwei found herself watching captivated. She pulled herself back startled. When had she begun admiring men like this.
Fortunately he did not notice. Do you like it she asked quietly.
Very much he said. He folded it carefully and returned it to the box. He glanced at her saw she was safely settled and drove off.
They arrived at the Civil Affairs Bureau. She got out and walked in beside him. The timing was just right two couples had just finished their business. They took their seats before the registrar. The official who had looked quite serious broke into a smile seeing them. Your identification and household registration books please.
Here they are.
Fill out the forms then proceed to the photography room.
We have photographs already Qiao Zhiwei said placing them on the desk together with their documents.
Well prepared the official said approvingly.
Huo Jingnian placed his application form household papers and identification alongside hers. The registrar noticed his military status and treated him with extra respect. Everything went smoothly and soon they held their marriage certificates.
Back in the car Huo Jingnian turned his certificate over in his hands studying it closely. Is something incorrect Qiao Zhiwei asked.
The certificates were simple folded pages handwritten in duplicate. It would not be unusual for details to differ slightly.