Amidst the hustle and bustle of this world, time rolls on, finally arriving at a highly anticipated holiday. The city's streets and alleys are already adorned with lights, with vibrant neon lights flickering, cheerfully expressing the joy of the holiday. Shop windows are decorated with exquisite window grilles and hung with festive red lanterns. A rich festive atmosphere permeates the air, as if sweeping away the past gloom and fatigue.
The home of Jiang Zhi and Shen Qingchen was also filled with the warm festive atmosphere. At dawn, the first rays of light still brought a hint of coolness, and Jiang Zhi quietly got out of bed, her heart full of anticipation for this special day, wanting to give her family a big surprise. In the kitchen, all kinds of ingredients had already been neatly arranged, the fresh fruits and vegetables exuded an enticing fragrance, and the plump fish waited to be transformed into a delicacy on the table. Jiang Zhi tied on the apron with small flowers printed on it. This apron was a gift from her children a few years ago. Although the colors on it were a little mottled, it was full of love. Every time Jiang Zhi tied it on, a warm current surged in her heart.
Her bare hands flew, the knife clattering against the chopping board with a rhythmic "clacking" sound, like a cheerful morning song. Soon, the plate was filled with finely chopped vegetables, and the fish was perfectly prepared. On the stove, a stew pot was steaming, simmering the children's favorite sweet and sour pork ribs. The sweet and sour aroma gradually filled the air, tempting everyone's appetite. Jiang Zhishi would occasionally lift the lid to check the heat, her eyes filled with concentration and tenderness. The rising steam blurred her face, but it also painted a beautiful picture of maternal love.
Shen Qingchen also woke early. He didn't disturb Jiang Zhi, who was busy in the kitchen, but went to the children's room. Gently pushing open the door, his lips curled up as he looked at the children sleeping soundly, his eyes filled with doting. He walked to the bedside and placed a gentle good morning kiss on each child's forehead, like a blessing from a guardian angel. "Hey babies, wake up! Today is a special day," he whispered, his voice filled with irresistible tenderness.
The children opened their eyes sleepily, startled at first, then realized it was a holiday and immediately cheered. The younger sister jumped up from the bed like a happy little rabbit, threw herself into Shen Qingchen's arms, and said softly, "Dad, I really want to eat the delicious food made by Mom soon!" The older brother was a little calmer. While putting on his clothes, he smiled and said, "I also prepared gifts for Mom and Dad!" His bright eyes flashed with a mysterious light, and he was obviously full of confidence in his gifts.
The family gathered in the living room, laughter and joy filling the air. Jiang Zhi brought out plates of delicious dishes from the kitchen, each one a testament to her care and attention. On the table, carefully prepared sweet and sour pork ribs, vibrant red in color and smothered in a thick sauce, were crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, a sweet and sour flavor instantly radiating on the tongue. The steamed sea bass, succulent and tender, was sprinkled with shredded scallions, ginger, and soy sauce, creating a fragrant, melt-in-your-mouth experience. There were also a variety of seasonal vegetables: stir-fried broccoli, vibrant green and crisp, and baby cabbage with vermicelli and garlic sauce, soft and fragrant. The combination of meat and vegetables whetted the appetite.
Chen Qingchen stood up, picked up the red wine bottle, and poured a glass for Jiang Zhi and himself. The red wine swayed in the crystal glass, like a burning flame, reflecting the happiness in their eyes. He raised his glass, looked at Jiang Zhi affectionately, and said, "My dear, you have worked hard for so many years. Every holiday has the taste of home because of you. This glass is for you." Jiang Zhi's eyes were filled with tears of emotion. She gently clinked her glasses and responded, "We have gone through so many ups and downs together. With you and the children by my side, I feel that everything is worth it. Cheers."
The children followed suit, raising their juice glasses. The older brother said solemnly, "Mom and Dad, I wish you eternal youth and happiness. We'll be together as a family forever!" His younger sister echoed him, nodding frantically, her cheeks flushed with excitement, like ripe apples. The family's glasses clinked together, creating a crisp, sweet sound, a melody of happiness.
After dinner, the living room lights were dimmed to a soft, inviting glow, like a warm, yellow moonlight. The children mysteriously returned to their rooms, and soon emerged, each clutching a carefully prepared gift. Jiang Zhi's younger sister was the first to run over, handing her a beautifully wrapped box tied with a pink bow—her favorite color. "Mom, this is a gift I made for you. I hope you like it," the younger sister said, blinking her eyes, her gaze filled with anticipation.
Jiang Zhi carefully opened the box, revealing a family portrait figurine made of clay. Though the craftsmanship was a bit immature and the figures were a bit crooked, each face beamed with a brilliant smile, a microcosm of their family's daily happiness. Jiang Zhi's eyes instantly welled up. She hugged her sister tightly, kissing her again and again, saying, "Baby, this is the most precious gift I've ever received. I love it so much." Her sister giggled with joy at the compliment, her tiny arms tightly clasping Jiang Zhi's neck.
The elder brother walked over to Shen Qingchen and handed over a homemade leather wallet. Although the stitching of the wallet was not so neat, it could be seen that a lot of effort had been put into it. There was also a simple pattern engraved on the leather, which was the initials of their family names. "Dad, you are usually busy with work. I hope this wallet can accompany you and remind you of us when you see it." There was a hint of shyness in the elder brother's voice, but it was full of sincerity. Shen Qingchen took the wallet, looked at it carefully, and was deeply moved. He rubbed his brother's hair vigorously and said, "Son, you have grown up. This is the coolest gift Dad has ever received. Thank you."
Jiang Zhi and Shen Qingchen also prepared gifts for the children. Jiang Zhi took out the beautiful princess dress she had bought for her younger sister. The pink skirt had layers of layers, was embroidered with delicate patterns, and was accessorized with a sparkling crown and magic wand. When her younger sister saw the dress, her eyes lit up like stars. She couldn't wait to take it and tried it on herself, saying, "Wow, I really want to put it on right now! I want to be the most beautiful princess!"
Shen Qingchen gave his brother a set of the latest technology model components, which contained various mechanical parts and electronic components, which could be assembled into small robots, aircraft, etc. His brother was so excited that his face flushed, and he hugged the box to study it, "Thank you, Dad, I will definitely be able to assemble the most amazing thing!"
The family gathered around the sofa, sharing gifts. The warm atmosphere was like a mellow wine, intoxicating. Outside the window, the city sky was lit up by fireworks, and the colorful fireworks bloomed in a dreamy sea of flowers. Jiang Zhi leaned in Shen Qingchen's arms, and the children snuggled beside them. They quietly admired the beautiful night view, their hearts filled with gratitude for life and longing for the future. In this bustling world, this moment of warmth and tranquility was like a safe haven, soothing their weary hearts. They knew that this was the ordinary yet precious life they had always pursued. As long as the family was together, every day in the future would be just as beautiful.
Continue read on readnovelmtl.com
