Assistant Architect by Xi He Qing Ling

Chapter 149: Object

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T/N: I wanted to let the people following the book know that my postings will be scarce in the following couple of weeks due to schedule changes. I have vacation coming up and at that time, I’ll be able to devote the hours it takes to translate the remaining chapters. I’ll hopefully be done by the end of the summer. I’ll probably take a short break then start another project. If people have requests for a future a project, feel free to comment, send me a direct email at [email protected] or txt my line ID Snowynotes.

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FatherZhang snorted and interrupted her: “You are acting like the country folkwho moved the whole family into the big city. You didn't need to bring thekitchen-sink."

MotherZhang glared at Father Zhang then glanced in Gu Yu direction, expecting him tosay something.

Rarely in his Father's defense, this time Zhang Siyi spoke up:"Mom, Haicheng is not without lychees. Every time you see me, you give me so manythings. I am very happy knowing you have good food to eat so there is no needto give it all away. If I need something, I'll buy it here."

Zhang Siyi'smother smiled and scolded him: "How can a family member say there is no need? Didyour rabbit brain break? When did you learn to talk that way to your family?"

In allhonestly, Zhang Siyi didn't know why he talked back to his parents. Probablythe reason was the result of being with Gu Yu. He was actually very nervous andfeeling guilty. He knew that his parents may never approve and be satisfied withhis life's decision and as a result, Zhang Siyi felt a sense of worry and loss.

When theyarrived at Yuanshan Garden, Gu Yu first dropped them off out front to unpackthe car and then he drove around to the parking lot. When Zhang Siyi's Mother steppedout of the car, she said: "This is a really nice area to live in."

Proudly,Zhang Siyi introduced his parents to his home: "This area is the old city andthe nearby buildings are protected." Through the portcullis and across thecourtyard, he took his parents to his home. When he opened the door, Townhousewas there wagging his tail to greet them.

Ms. Zhangwas surprised: “Hey, there is a dog!”

Zhang SiyiSaid: “Well, you needn't be afraid. He is very docile and doesn't usually bark.“

When hismother heard Zhang Siyi say 'you needn't be afraid' she chuckled and smiled. Shefelt like for the first time, the tone her son emulated was a little bit likean adult.

Changing hisshoes, Father Zhang asked: "You and Gu Yu have to go to work, but also havetime to take care of a dog?"

Zhang Siyi:“There isn't much more time needed to take care of him. After eating, wetake the dog out for a walk. It's not a hassle."

FatherZhang continued: “Your mother also mentioned various business trips and youare expected to be going abroad soon. How will you take care of the dog whenyou leave?"

Zhang Siyi:“The pet shop has foster care facilities you can register your dog with."

Looking atthe golden retriever, mother Zhang suddenly remembered: “Isn't this thesame dog your friend bought and posted pictures on your social media page? Whatwas it…? The son of Heartless Han?"

Puzzled,his Father asked: "Who is the son of Heartless Han?"

Zhang Siyi’smother answered: “His original roommate that he rented an apartment with.The one that had the accident at home and now is abroad."

Zhang Siyismiled and said: “Ha-ha, you even remembered that.”

Mother Zhangquipped: “I am your mother. What is there that I do not know? I havegathered all information and read every message on your social media pages. Youused to post frequently about what you did everyday including your meals. Nowthat you are at work, you post so much less. Are you too busy at the company?"

By thewarmth of his mother statement, Zhang Siyi heart was moved. It was as Gu Yusaid earlier. Only a mother would care about the details of what he ate and didevery day.

Afterputting away the packages, Zhang Siyi went to show his parents the house.Previously, when he was a roommate with his friends, he didn't feel the need toshow his parents the apartment. Afterall, it was only one room he rented with twoother friends, but now there is a difference. With his relationship with Gu Yu,this house is not only his place of residence, but his home as well.

Like asmall master, Zhang Siyi proudly showed his parents his room and the livingspaces both upstairs and downstairs.

Thedownstairs living room is mainly used for receiving and entertaining guests.The upstairs terrace is more of an intimate setting where they can relax atnight. It is a good place to read books or play a game of chess at the smalltable on the platform. If the weather is good, the sliding glass door can beopened to let the fresh air come inside.

Mother Zhanglooked around and sighed: "It really is a good environment. Old Zhang, you seethis place that these two live in. Studying architecture in the end was goodfor your son. Its more beautiful then the places on TV."

Walking aroundwith his hands clasped behind his back, Zhang Siyi's father was very satisfied.The collection of books and elegant atmosphere in the home was the perfectresidence for a scholar.

Scratchinghis head Zhang Siyi said: "Hey now, this is Gu Yu's work. I just sit back andenjoy it." Zhang Siyi smiled and wanted to brag about Gu Yu to his parents forthem to understand — This wonderful man is your son’s boyfriend!

His Father lecturedhim: "Know that you are enjoying another's achievements. Living together is nobetter then living at home. There is no babysitter to cook and do your laundry.Don't be lazy and take advantage of it. Although Gu Yu is older than you, thereis no good reason for him to take care of you to this extent."

Hearing hisfather’s lecture, Zhang Siyi wasn't as resentful towards him as he had been inthe past. He was happy to explain his living conditions: “I know. Thedivision of labor is very clear. He cooks and I wash the dishes. On odd days Iclean, and on even days he does. On the weekends we have time to do laundry andfinish chores together."

In fact, althoughthe rules were clearly stipulated, Zhang Siyi was very lazy sometimes and wouldforget. As a result, Gu Yu would still clean-up for him. Listening to his dad,Zhang Siyi only reacted and realized that he hasn't received a bonus from Gu Yuin a long time. It seems, Zhang Siyi really does need to listen to his fatherand earn some bonus points in the future.

Mother Zhangsmiled: “No wonder the home is very clean. My friend always complainedabout the pet hair getting all over the place, but I don't see any here. It's avery tidy."

In the pasttwo months, Gu Yu was adamant about brushing the dog properly and keeping thefamily clean. He was more dedicated then the dog's original father.

As theywere talking, Gu Yu came back and the three of them went downstairs to decideon a place to eat.

Gu Yu:“You have had a long trip and it's not too early anymore. How about we geta quick bite to eat downstairs?"

Ms. Zhang wasvery polite: “We brought a lot of dishes and can eat the dumplings oncethey are cooked."

Gu Yu lookedat the time: “I'm afraid you are hungry now, and cooking the food willtake some time. There is a small place that is inexpensive down the street thatmakes very good dumplings. We can eat a little now and prepare a nice dinnertogether for later."

After listeningto Gu Yu, Zhang father nodded: “Zhang Siyi should have arranged it so hewould take us out to dinner. And by the way, I am pleased to have you join us.Now, you are going to be the host. Isn't that too much of a bother?"

Gu Yusmiled briefly and said: "Uncle, you are polite. You rarely come visit. It'sonly proper for me to be the one making the invitations for dinner."

The more motherZhang heard Gu Yu and witness his actions, the more she liked him. While theywere walking to the restaurant, she held Zhang Siyi back a little and asked: "GuYu is thirty. Does he have a girlfriend? You are living with him now. Does yourpresence affect his personal life?”

Feelingguilty, Zhang Siyi heart was tight and pretended to not know: "Not that I knowof."

His mother hadheard Zhang Siyi's explanation for moving and living with Gu Yu. She commented:"He was originally living alone. In order to help you, he has sacrificed hispersonal life. You need to pay attention to the consequences of your actions. Hurryand move out. Don't bother people and cause unnecessary trouble. You know?"

Zhang Siyi:“Oh…” Hey, in fact, he isthe “object” of Gu Yu! ╭(╯_╰)╮

The smallrestaurant was indeed very close. When its late, Zhang Siyi and Gu Yu often gothere to eat since the price is moderate and the food is good.

Afterlunch, the four people went shopping nearby. Zhang Siyi told his parents aboutthe origins of the distant mountain villa. He pointed out the variousarchitectural styles and characteristics of the nearby old buildings.

However, because the expert is present, where Zhang Siyi was wrong, Gu Yu still pointed out his mistakes and corrected him.

Zhang Siyirarely had the opportunity to showcase his knowledge in front of his parents.Since Gu Yu kept correcting him, the result wasn't what he wanted. Feelingannoyed, they bickered with one another. However, even if the words expressedsounded like they were fighting, their gestures and mannerisms suggestedsomething more akin to flirting.

Even though Zhang Siyi's father didn't think much of the scene before him, Zhang Siyi mother had been exposed to those-kinds-of-stories. Although she knows she shouldn't, she couldn't help her mind from wandering…… In fact, her son and Gu Yu are also a good match.

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