Jiang Hao returned home, where Jiu'er had already had the cook prepare a meal and wait for him. While eating, Jiang Hao said, "I'm going out for a while tomorrow to take care of something."
"You're going far away?" Jiu'er asked.
"Not too far. Maybe ten days or so," Jiang Hao said.
During the Republican era, a journey of more than ten days probably meant no more than reaching a neighboring province in most people's minds. Jiu'er had no idea Jiang Hao could fly. Ten days was enough for him to make several trips around countries all over the world.
"Then be careful, dear. I'll pack your clothes," Jiu'er said.
After dinner, Jiu'er rummaged through chests and cabinets to prepare Jiang Hao's luggage. He did not stop her, instead sitting on the kang bed, drinking tea and watching her bustle about.
Having someone willing to busy herself like that for you was, in fact, a kind of happiness.
By ten that night, Jiu'er had finally finished packing. Two suitcases held long robes, suits, shoes, changes of underwear, everyday necessities, and more. Everything had been arranged neatly and with great care.
Jiang Hao smiled and pulled Jiu'er into his arms. "A brief parting makes lovers feel like newlyweds. Let's eat our fill before I leave."
Jiu'er gave Jiang Hao a seductive wink.
The next day.
Jiang Hao left.
Two hours later, he appeared at Shenyang's East Gate.
The streets were desolate, nowhere near as bustling as they had been during Zhang Zuolin's time. The few passersby all wore anxious expressions and hurried along, terrified of drawing the attention of the Japanese soldiers standing guard.
Those bastards were not human. If they took a dislike to someone, they could drag them away and stab them to death with bayonets without any reason