When discussing work, Ye Zhengchen’s mother mentioned, “Old Ye is now the commander of the Nth Military Region… I worked as a nurse for a few years and later focused on taking care of the children at home.”
Hearing “commander,” my parents were stunned, a mix of joy and worry on their faces. Many leaders’ children in Nanzhou had become spoiled and arrogant, with some even causing local scandals.
Out of concern, my mother tentatively asked, “Do you have only one child?” I felt sweat break out on my back and quickly tugged at her.
“Yes,” Ye Zhengchen replied, changing the subject. “Uncle and Aunt, when are you free to visit Beijing?”
Before my mother could respond, his father spoke up. “Zhengchen originally had an older brother who came to the military base to find me when he was young and had an… accident. So I’ve always been strict with Zhengchen, and he’s very motivated…”
Ye Zhengchen’s gaze darkened, lost in thought for a long time.
“I’m sorry! I’m sorry!” His mother hurried to apologize.
“It’s okay, it’s all in the past,” his mother said. “Let’s eat; the dishes are getting cold.”
I glanced at Ye Zhengchen. He smiled at me and mouthed, “Don’t worry, I’m here!”
With him here, what could I worry about? There’s no problem he can’t solve!
On the plane to Beijing, I whispered, “Can you stop arguing with your father in the future?”
“I’m not arguing; this is called resistance!” he replied. “I’ve been resisting Commander Ye’s authoritarianism since childhood, losing every time. But this time is my first victory!”
“Staff Officer Ye, he’s so authoritarian, yet you still resist. If he were more democratic, you’d probably stage a revolution!”
“Where there is oppression, there will be resistance,” he insisted.
“Oppression? You’re a high-ranking official, driving luxury cars, wearing famous watches. How can I not see your privilege?”
“I have no freedom! Do you understand freedom?!”
Discussing political power with a military man was unwise, so I shifted to emotions instead. “Your father cares for you deeply. Maybe his strictness comes from love.”
