Lin Wenbin let Lin Xiaoxiao ramble on. He knew that the more upset she was, the more she talked nonsense—it was her way of coping with worry and fear. Deep down, she just couldn't stop thinking about their parents.

When she finally calmed down, he gently reasoned with her: "The fact that you had that dream means you have a gift of foresight. Since you didn't see anything bad happen to Mom and Dad, it means they're safe. And as for that imposter living in your body—she's not having an easy time either. With Fu Dongcheng keeping watch, no one can take advantage of the situation."

He knew his friend well—ruthless in business, but fiercely loyal to those he cared about. Entrusting the family's affairs to him had been the right decision.

But Lin Xiaoxiao still couldn't let it go. "Then why can't I see them in my dreams? I just want to know if they're okay."

Lin Wenbin thought for a moment. "Maybe the dream version of you doesn't have a passport. So you can't go abroad."

Lin Xiaoxiao stared at him. "You're impossible."

Lin Wenbin, however, wasn't worried. His parents were wise and romantic souls. His mother had always been a strong businesswoman, armored and sharp—but that was out of duty to the family. In truth, she was a dreamer at heart. After he returned from studying abroad, she handed everything over to him and retired without looking back.

His father was dedicated to medicine, and the only thing that truly preoccupied him was his wife.

Now, free of all burdens, they were probably finding their own way to grieve—and live the life they'd always wanted.

Lin Xiaoxiao remained downcast for two days after the dream, but soon turned her attention back to Li Yunlan's health. Fortunately, Li Yunlan was getting regular check-ups and avoiding surgery where possible—so long as she wasn't under any further stress.

On her day off, Zhou Xiaoling dragged Lin Xiaoxiao out for some shopping and fresh air. They ended up with nothing to buy, so they went boating on Beihai Lake instead.

A gentle spring breeze blew, and apricot blossoms lined the shore. It was a Sunday, and the lake was full of families and couples out on dates—most of them choosing to row boats.

Couples drifted leisurely across the water, chatting about their dreams, work, and studies—a perfectly peaceful scene.

Lin Xiaoxiao and Zhou Xiaoling rented a small boat and paddled aimlessly.

Zhou Xiaoling was enthusiastic. "When Xuanxuan and the others are older, I'll bring them boating. And in the winter, I'll take them ice skating—I'm really good at it."

As she spoke, she kept looking around, eager to gossip. "See that couple over there? Definitely a blind date. They haven't said a word to each other this whole time. I bet the girl isn't interested—she keeps checking her watch."

Lin Xiaoxiao laughed. "You're such a busybody. Just wait till your aunt sets you up on a date—you'll be the same."

Zhou Xiaoling waved a hand. "Not me. I'd just say it straight: if it's not working, it's not working."

After a moment, Lin Xiaoxiao asked, "If Lin Zihao comes back safely this time, will you tell him how you feel? If you like him, you should try. If it doesn't work out, at least no one's time is wasted."

After all, Zhou Xiaoling wasn't getting any younger—especially in this day and age. Lin Xiaoxiao hoped she would find happiness sooner rather than waiting endlessly for Lin Zihao.

Zhou Xiaoling nodded firmly. "It's fine, really. I've already decided—I'm okay even if I never get married. I'm not that eager anyway. And with my personality, I doubt my in-laws would like me."

Lin Xiaoxiao disagreed. "What are you talking about? We all love you. You're lively and you know your own mind."

Zhou Xiaoling grinned. "But what if I end up disliking my husband and can't help punching him?

You think his parents would still like me then?"

Lin Xiaoxiao had to admit she had a point. She could only hope Zhou Xiaoling would find a man who cherished her just the way she was.

After boating, they went to Tianqiao Theater to listen to pingshu—storytelling. But Lin Xiaoxiao kept checking the time, worried about the babies. Had they started crying?

Noticing her restlessness, Zhou Xiaoling reassured her, "Don't worry—Qianqian and the others are fine. There are plenty of people at home looking after them. They're only a month old—they probably don't even know how to miss their mom yet."

Lin Xiaoxiao knew that was true. Since she wasn't breastfeeding, the babies weren't especially attached to her. Still, she couldn't relax. "Let's just head back," she said finally.

Seeing she was too distracted to enjoy the show, Zhou Xiaoling agreed to leave early.

On the way home, she asked, "Why don't you have my brother buy you a ladies' watch? That one you're wearing is the one he got issued, right?" After a pause, she added, "If money's tight, I can buy you one."

Lin Xiaoxiao shook her head. "No, this one is fine. I like it. I wouldn't trade it even for a big gold watch."

Zhou Xiaoling understood. It was something her brother had worn—a keepsake that reminded Lin Xiaoxiao of him. For once, even carefree Zhou Xiaoling found herself hoping her brother would come home soon.

Otherwise, by the time he returned, the kids might already be running around.

They hurried straight home. When they reached the gate, they saw two black sedans parked outside.

Military green jeeps were common, but these official-looking cars were rare—usually assigned to high-ranking officials.

Zhou Xiaoling looked puzzled. "The license plates look like they're from Shanghai. Maybe Uncle's back?"

Lin Xiaoxiao knew Zhou Xiaoling's uncle worked abroad, so she was curious too.

Before they could step into the yard, Zhou Liyun rushed out and gently pushed them back outside. "Don't go in just yet."

Zhou Xiaoling was intrigued. "Why? Who's here that we can't see?"

Zhou Liyun frowned. "Visitors from Shanghai. They're looking for someone. Just... stay out for a while. The children are asleep. Take a walk around the block."

Lin Xiaoxiao's heart skipped a beat. Shanghai... and they were looking for someone. She couldn't help wondering if it had something to do with Zhou Xiaoling's family—after all, her father was an orphan, and they shared the same surname.

Zhou Liyun looked annoyed. "How rude of them to show up like this."

But Zhou Xiaoling didn't overthink it. "Who are they looking for? I want to see what's going on."

Zhou Liyun held her back. "Grown-up business. You kids don't need to get involved. We're out of soy sauce anyway—go buy a jin, and get some red bean curd while you're at it."

Lin Xiaoxiao sensed that Zhou Zhennan had sent Zhou Liyun to stop them. If he didn't want them inside, he had his reasons. She tugged Zhou Xiaoling's arm. "Let's go shopping. We can ask Mom and Dad about it later when the cars are gone."

Zhou Xiaoling turned reluctantly, mumbling, "Why all the secrecy? You'd think it was some kind of enemy."

Zhou Liyun gave her a light smack on the shoulder. "Enough out of you. Go on now—don't come back until those cars are gone."