Lin Ying sighed softly and continued, "I've thought about it. If you really don't come back, I'll definitely be heartbroken, but life goes on. I'll raise the children well and continue to use my medical skills to help more people. So, you don't need to worry too much about me, and you don't need to feel that you have to retire from the army for my sake."

As Zhao Qinghuai listened to Lin Ying's words, he felt increasingly uneasy. He held Lin Ying's hand tightly, his voice a little hoarse: "Wife, I know you are very strong, but I just can't bear to let you carry all this alone anymore. When I think about how hard you work when I'm not around, it feels like needles are pricking my heart."

Lin Ying shook her head slightly, a faint smile appearing on her face: "It was tough, but I got through it. Besides, I had the villagers with me; they all took good care of me and the children. What I want to say is, I've seen your feelings for the army."

In particular, I've always felt that our relationship is mutual, and I don't want to one day have to take responsibility for all your unhappiness after you leave the military.

From now on, whether you withdraw or not, that's your own decision, not something you actually do because of me, do you understand?

Zhao Qinghuai was silent for a while before slowly saying, "I've been thinking about this for the past two days. All those years in the army, those life-and-death experiences, the sense of accomplishment after each mission, and the camaraderie with my comrades—it's not something I can easily give up. But when I think of my family and you all, I feel that I should stay here, stay with you, and fulfill my responsibilities as a husband and father."

Lin Ying gently patted his hand and comforted him, "This is indeed a difficult decision, but don't put too much pressure on yourself. Just follow your heart. Look, whether you stay in the army or come back after your service, our family will always be here waiting for you. The children and I will always support you and be proud of you."