Howard fell silent. He knew Jiang Feng was telling the truth. A more secure placement plan… a plan that would protect her safety, keep her under control, and buy her time for treatment and recovery…

A thought, like lightning breaking through the dark clouds, suddenly shone in his mind!

This idea is so bold, so unconventional, yet it seems to be... the only viable path at present!

He stood up abruptly, his eyes becoming incredibly determined: "Captain Jiang, please give me some time! I'll think of a solution!"

After leaving the National Security Office, Howard didn't linger for a moment, heading straight for the Military Region Political Department. His steps were brisk, his expression solemn, as if he were about to carry out a crucial mission involving life and death.

Under the astonished gaze of the political commissar, he picked up a pen and unfolded a blank marriage application form. He took a deep breath, the pen hovering above the "Applicant's Name" column, pausing for only a second, before forcefully writing two names that penetrated the paper:

Applicant: Howard

Respondent's name: Mingzhao

...

Meanwhile, a thousand miles away in the capital, in a quiet and heavily guarded courtyard house.

A middle-aged man in a well-pressed Zhongshan suit was sitting at his desk reviewing documents. His wife, Qin Mingxian, a graceful and well-maintained woman, entered carrying a freshly brewed cup of tea.

"Old Huo, take a break and have some tea." Qin Mingxian gently placed the teacup on the table.

"Hmm." Huo Jianguo put down his pen and rubbed his temples.

Just then, the family orderly strode in, holding a telegram: "Sir, Madam, this is an urgent telegram from the military region, addressed to Commander Huo's superiors and forwarded to the family."

Huo Jianguo took the telegram and unfolded it. Qin Mingxian also curiously leaned over to look.

The telegram was very brief, consisting of only one line.

"Clatter!" The lid of the teacup in Qin Mingxian's hand slipped and fell onto the clean floor, shattering into pieces.

Her eyes widened, her well-maintained face filled with shock and disbelief, and her voice suddenly rose, becoming so shrill it almost cracked:

"What?! Howard filed for marriage registration?! Who's the bride? Mingzhao? Seventeen?! Her identity needs verification?! Old Howard! What... what on earth is going on?!"