PCJ – Chapter 162 Every Family Has Its Own Problems

After changing the name, Zhang Manyin originally planned to take Zhang Jiaohua home immediately. However, Luo Changjun was very enthusiastic and insisted on inviting Zhang Manyin and his grandson to his home for a meal.

“My father always mentioned the time you sold wine on New Year’s Eve. He also said that if you ever came to the station to find me, I must bring you home. If I don’t invite you, he won’t show me a good face,” Luo Changjun said, managing to get Zhang Manyin and Zhang Jiaohua into his car. Luo Changjun drove a green canvas-covered Jeep, which was essentially his vehicle as the station chief.

It was Zhang Jiaohua’s first time in a car, making him both curious and nervous. Once seated, he didn’t know where to put his hands.

The old street was narrow, but there were few people and cars, so they drove quickly. Zhang Jiaohua and his grandfather were tossed back and forth in the back seat.

“Are you feeling car sick?” Luo Changjun asked worriedly, turning his head.

“We’re fine,” Zhang Manyin replied, showing no signs of discomfort.

Though Zhang Jiaohua felt a bit dizzy, it didn’t seem too serious.

Luo Yongming was reading a newspaper at home, wearing reading glasses. After a long look, he recognized Zhang Jiaohua. “Oh, it’s you, Zhang Jiaohua. Come in, come in, sit down. Is this your grandfather? Old brother, make yourself at home.”

Luo Yongming could see that Zhang Manyin was a bit reserved after entering the house.

“By the way, Jiaohua, I should call you Zhang Jiaohua now, right? Your name has been changed, hasn’t it?” Luo Yongming looked at Luo Changjun.

“It’s been changed. I personally took them to the household registration department to change it,” Luo Changjun said, pouring water for Zhang Manyin and Zhang Jiaohua.

“Jiaohua, do you know why I suggested you change your name to these characters?” Luo Yongming asked.

Zhang Jiaohua shook his head.

Luo Changjun handed the water to Zhang Manyin, while listening carefully to what Luo Yongming would say.

“Jiaohua, you’re different from other children. When I first saw you, I knew you were different. At such a young age, you knew to use the scent of wine to attract customers. It’s truly remarkable. You must study hard in the future to bring out your intelligence. Education and transformation!” Luo Yongming said with great emotion.

“This little guy is really something. He just cured my swollen lymph nodes,” Luo Changjun couldn’t help but mention how Zhang Jiaohua had treated his ailment.

Zhang Jiaohua was surprised not to see a hostess in the house.

Luo Yongming, in a good mood today, personally cooked a few dishes. Luo Changjun went to the kitchen to help but was driven out.

“The old man lives here alone. He refuses to live with us. He’s a stubborn old man, there’s no way around it. He loves meddling in others’ affairs and often offends people. This time, I was surprised he was genuinely helping you change your name,” Luo Changjun said cheerfully after being driven out of the kitchen.

Zhang Jiaohua realized why there was no hostess in the house. Luo Yongming’s wife had probably passed away. He had noticed a framed photo of a dignified and gentle woman in the house, likely Luo Yongming’s wife. Luo Changjun’s family didn’t live with Luo Yongming. They were here today likely because of him.

During the meal, Luo Changjun tried to persuade Luo Yongming to live with them.

“Dad, you should come live with us. Zhang Xia always asks if you won’t come because you have something against her. She insists on bringing you over and promises to treat you like her own parents. People might think we’re neglecting you if you keep living alone in the old house,” Luo Changjun said, feeling a bit aggrieved.

“Changjun, I’ll never leave the old house in this life. You know why. I’ll explain to Zhang Xia. I’m fine here. Don’t worry about me. If I moved in with you, how could I be at ease knowing your mother is alone here? If I hadn’t focused so much on work, your mother wouldn’t have left us so early. It’s all my fault,” Luo Yongming said emotionally, tears welling up in his eyes.

“Sorry, sorry, my father was always busy with work before he retired. When my mother fell ill, it was too late when we found out. He feels very guilty. My brother never came back after joining the army because of this,” Luo Changjun regretted bringing this up in front of guests.

Luo Yongming quickly composed himself. “Sorry, sorry, old brother Zhang. Our family matters affected you.”

Zhang Manyin sighed. “I thought city people had a life a hundred times better than us in the countryside, like living in heaven. I didn’t expect you to have your troubles too.”

“Yes, every family has its difficulties. Don’t let my situation affect you. Enjoy your meal,” Luo Yongming said, putting down his chopsticks and walking into his room alone.

“Sigh, it’s my fault. The old man was finally in a good mood, and I shouldn’t have brought this up,” Luo Changjun said regretfully.

“You were just being filial,” Zhang Manyin said.

“My wife is actually very nice. She often brings our son to visit the old man, hoping to bring him over, but he refuses. My wife thinks he doesn’t like her,” Luo Changjun said with a wry smile.

When Zhang Manyin and Zhang Jiaohua were ready to leave after the meal, Luo Yongming came out of his room holding a few books, all thick and well-bound.

“Jiaohua, take these books home and read them well. With your parents working away, books will accompany your growth,” Luo Yongming said, handing the books to Zhang Jiaohua solemnly.

Zhang Jiaohua hesitated, unsure whether to accept or refuse.

“Take them. If you don’t, the old man won’t be happy,” Luo Changjun seemed to see Zhang Jiaohua’s hesitation.

Zhang Jiaohua accepted the books.

“Changjun, you have a car. Drive them back. Meizi Village is a few hours’ walk,” Luo Yongming insisted.

“Alright, I don’t have anything to do this afternoon. Driving over won’t take long,” Luo Changjun agreed enthusiastically.

“Actually, I went to your village last year. You must have heard about the giant python on one of your mountains?” Luo Changjun said casually as they drove.

“Yes, we heard the armed police captured it,” Zhang Manyin said.

Zhang Jiaohua had a vivid memory of it.

“I can’t tell you the rest. I don’t know much myself; I was mainly responsible for the perimeter security,” Luo Changjun said.