Volume One, Chapter 12: The Conflict Sparked by Childcare

The arrival of Cheng’s parents instantly brought a lively atmosphere to the home. Though the apartment spanned over 120 square meters, the living room felt crowded.

Chunrong Liu sat between Cheng’s father, Jiancheng Cheng, and his mother, Lan Bai. Cheng and Xiang Zheng held hands, standing quietly by their side. Sister Zhao, having finished washing the fruit, slipped into the kitchen.

“Mother-in-law, the two kids aren’t married yet, but Cheng is already living here. I hope we haven’t caused you any trouble. On their behalf, I want to thank you for your hard work,” Jiancheng Cheng set the tone for today’s conversation.

Chunrong Liu’s satisfaction with Cheng was beyond words. “Father-in-law, you’re too polite. Ah Xu is a polite and reliable young man. Our Xiang Zheng is truly fortunate to have his care.”

Lan Bai, her hands trembling, took a rectangular box out of her bag. It was not small, and the Old Fengxiang jewelry brand logo caught the eye.

“I’ve heard from Cheng that his girlfriend is exceptionally beautiful. It’s a pleasure to finally meet her today. I didn’t prepare much, but please accept this small token.”

When she received her son’s call, she wasn’t sure what to buy. The brand’s spokesperson was the ageless goddess she admired and knew well.

Initially, she thought of buying a bracelet, but Jiancheng Cheng insisted that a first meeting should not be too modest, so the gift was upgraded.

Xiang Zheng took it excitedly; it felt heavy in her hand, likely more than one piece—perhaps a set.

“Thank you… Auntie, thank you for raising such an outstanding son.”

Although they had their marriage certificate, Xiang Zheng hadn’t dared to call them “mom” and “dad” directly.

The quick marriage was her idea, fearing Cheng’s parents might not agree.

She had browsed matchmaking forums and online communities before. Traditional thinking favored women who were teachers or doctors; salespeople were less welcomed.

Her words moved Lan Bai to tears, who praised her as a good child.

Xiang Zheng had made a good first impression on her in-laws, smiling softly as she glanced at Cheng.

“I told you, my parents would like you. Xiang Zheng really did her homework for your sake,” Cheng replied to his wife.

Jiancheng Cheng saw the mutual affection between the two; with a glance and a gesture, any discerning person could tell it was perfect.

“We came this time to discuss the wedding. You decide how to handle things in the capital; we’ll follow local customs. Back home, we’ll have a big celebration. We can’t shortchange little Zheng. Cheng is the most educated and successful among our relatives; it should be a grand event.”

After he spoke, the room fell silent for a moment.

Everyone was watching and listening carefully. Cheng thought about his decision, which was quite shocking—he wasn’t sure how his parents would react. He explained, “Mom, Dad, Xiang Zheng and I have discussed it. We won’t hold the wedding for now. First, her department is undergoing personnel changes, and she’s facing a promotion; second, we have a small wish—to have our baby present at our wedding someday.”

“Is that so?” Jiancheng Cheng rubbed his stubble, his expression darkening.

He had already informed aunts and uncles about the upcoming wedding, and now, with just a few words, it was off. Awkward!

“Our Cheng family finally has an heir. Your father and I have been hoping for this for so long,” Lan Bai chimed in. “By the way, how will you raise the child?”

Another sensitive topic.

Though their minds were made up, it was hard to be understood.

Xiang Zheng shifted slightly and smiled, “My mother isn’t very well, but we have a nanny at home who can help…”

Jiancheng Cheng, impatient, cut her off, his eyebrows furrowed. “How can you trust a nanny? A couple of years ago, there was news right here in our provincial capital— a nanny set fire; the employer’s family suffered terribly. If no one else can help, have your mother come assist.”

“That’s right. I’ve seen plenty of parenting advice online. I know things are different now; kids are precious and not as stubborn as before. Rest assured, I’ll learn as I go and take good care of the baby,” Lan Bai said confidently about her future childcare plans.

Cheng: “…”

Xiang Zheng: “…”

Chunrong Liu: “…”

The decision was too sudden for everyone.

Perhaps Cheng’s parents were open-minded enough, but living under the same roof for a long time would magnify every little flaw, likely leading to chaos.

Moreover, the family was complicated. The age-old mother-in-law and daughter-in-law conflict, if not handled well, could be explosive.

“Mom, you’ve worked hard all your life. Don’t worry about us now. Our family’s situation has improved; Dad’s garment processing factory isn’t busy anymore. If you’re free, go travel and see the world. We’ll take care of the child ourselves,” Cheng said, easing a weight off Xiang Zheng’s heart.

She couldn’t imagine facing her mother-in-law every day without losing her mind.

“If your mother doesn’t come, will you just rely on a nanny? I’m not convinced. That’s my grandchild too!”

Jiancheng Cheng suddenly stood up, his gaze searching for the nanny in the house.

“Don’t get upset. Besides the nanny, isn’t there Xiang Zheng?” Lan Bai understood her husband’s temper and quickly soothed him, afraid to scare her daughter-in-law.

With the conversation reaching this point, Xiang Zheng felt it was time to lay her cards on the table. The truth couldn’t be hidden any longer.

“Mom, Dad, Cheng and I have discussed it. After giving birth, I will return to work. Today’s modern career women balance independence and family.”

“After all this talk, you’re still insisting on leaving the child with a nanny, right?” Jiancheng Cheng’s words carried a hint of anger.

“I’ll take care of the baby myself. You can rest assured now, can’t you?” Cheng looked around and declared this earth-shattering decision.

Jiancheng Cheng’s face tightened, slowly cracking under the weight of the news.