Volume One: First Steps on the Path Chapter Three: The Day of Parting

Ye Junze pushed open the door. “Mom, what are you cooking today? It smells wonderful.”

His mother replied cheerfully, “It’s your favorite—braised pork. You’ll be leaving soon, and I’m not sure if the food at the new school will suit your taste. Eat plenty while you’re still home.”

“Alright, thanks Mom. I’ll have three big bowls, I promise.”

“My silly boy, there’s no need to be so polite with your own mother. Come on, eat up before the dishes go cold.”

Seated at the table, Junze ate while his mind wandered to thoughts of his new school. “By the way, Mom, where’s Dad? I haven’t seen him all day.”

“Oh, your father left early this morning. He said he was going to buy you some things you’ll need after term starts. He should be back soon. Don’t worry about him, just eat.”

At that moment, his father came in through the door. “What’s that you’re saying? Don’t worry about me? Oh, I see we’re having braised pork today! I rarely get the chance to eat this. Today, I’m lucky to be your father.”

“Dad, you’re back! Come join us.”

The family sat together, sharing a meal in the warmth of their modest home. Junze had always cherished this kind of life. Even after what happened two years ago, he chose to keep certain things from his parents. They had already endured so much for his sake, and he preferred to shoulder some burdens himself rather than let them worry. The Ye family wasn’t rich, but they were comfortably middle-class in Yanshi, and Junze had never felt deprived. If there was something he wanted, his parents always tried to provide it. In return, all he could do was repay them with outstanding grades.

Whenever neighbors chatted, they would say, “I heard Junze placed near the top of his grade again. Such a good boy—not like my own, who can’t be mentioned in the same breath.” His parents, though outwardly reserved, were always quietly pleased by such words. Every exam became an occasion Junze looked forward to, for he knew his parents would always reward him afterward. Over the years, he had become the “model child” in everyone’s eyes.

Thinking of this, Junze wondered to himself, “I don’t know if academic performance will be as important at the new school. Surely, even in such a mysterious place, grades must still count for something.”

“Junze, what are you thinking about? You’re about to start university. It’s a happy time—make sure you eat properly first,” his mother’s voice drew him back.

“Nothing, Mom. I was just thinking that today’s braised pork tastes even better than usual.”

“You really know how to flatter, just like your old man. After you finish eating, try on the new clothes I bought you. You’re heading off to university soon—you need to look presentable.”

“Thanks, Dad.”

They continued their meal, their conversation drifting from daily trivialities to reminders and advice for Junze as he prepared to leave for university. He listened to every word, finding it anything but nagging. After all, he would soon be living away from home for a long time, and he understood how much his parents must worry.

“Mom, Dad, I’m done eating. I’ll go try on the new clothes now.” With that, Junze took the clothes his father had bought and went to his room.

The clothes fit perfectly, evidence of his father’s careful selection. Looking in the mirror, Junze saw that he cut a rather handsome figure. He patted his clothes out of habit, and as his fingers brushed the pocket, he felt something inside. Curious, he reached in and pulled out a bank card and a note.

“Brat, this is the secret stash your old man has been saving up for years. I was planning to treat myself every so often, but it looks like luck’s on your side. I’m giving it to you instead. You’ll need it at university—after all, you should find yourself a girlfriend, right? Your mother and I both hope you’ll settle down soon. Besides, with a son as good-looking as mine, you can’t have girls paying for your dates. I can’t bring myself to say these things in person, but take care of yourself. And one more thing—don’t tell your mother about this, or I’ll be in trouble.”

After reading this, Junze’s eyes grew moist. In this world, all parents want the best for their children, willing to do anything for them. Only parents give without expecting anything in return. In his heart, Junze thought, “Don’t worry, Dad, Mom. I’ll take care of myself and make sure you don’t have to worry about me.”

Composing himself, Junze opened the door.

“Dad, I tried on the clothes—they fit perfectly.”

“Let me see,” his mother said with a smile. “Oh my, you look so handsome, Junze.”

“Well, of course. Who do you think picked out those clothes? Whose son do you think he is?” his father said with pride. “He’s got a bit of my style when I was young.”

“Listen to you! You were nowhere near as well-behaved as our good son in your youth,” his mother teased.

“Heh, and yet I still became your man in the end,” his father replied cheekily.

Watching his parents banter, Junze felt a deep sense of contentment. A smile crept across his face.

But even the happiest moments must end. The child preparing to leave home, no matter how reluctant, must eventually say goodbye.

“Mom, Dad, I’m heading to the university now. Please take care of yourselves. You’re grown-ups now, so don’t argue over little things.”

“Well, listen to you, telling us what to do now. Make sure you look after yourself at school,” his mother said, her voice tinged with reluctance.

“He’s grown up. It’s time for him to try things on his own. We shouldn’t put too much pressure on him,” his father comforted her.

“I know, but I just can’t bear to let him go. What if he doesn’t eat well or dress warmly enough? Who knows what the school is like? Will our child be able to adapt?” his mother said, her voice breaking.

“Mom, don’t worry. I’ll get used to it. I’m not a kid anymore. As long as you and Dad are happy, I’m happy too,” Junze reassured her.

“Alright, alright. If you get homesick, just come back. We’re in the same city, after all. When you do, I’ll make you more braised pork,” she said, wiping her tears.

The sorrow of parting spread throughout the house. No matter how difficult, farewells must be said.

Junze packed his things. “Mom, Dad, I’m off now. Take care of yourselves.” As he spoke, he pointed to his clothes pocket and winked at his father. “Dad, I really like the clothes. Take good care of Mom for me.”

His father gave him a knowing look. “Brat, you don’t need to tell me that. I always cherish my wife.”

“That’s that, then. Mom, Dad, you don’t have to see me off. I’ve checked the directions—just need to catch a cab.”

His parents watched from the doorway as Junze walked away.

“Alright, don’t cry. Children have to go make their own way in the world. Every generation has its own fortunes. Wasn’t it the same for us?” his father said, holding his wife in comfort. “Let’s wait and see all the great things he will achieve.”

“I know, but after spending every day together, it’s hard to let go just like that,” his mother said, dabbing at her tears.

“Come on, let’s go inside. He’ll call as soon as he gets to school.”

“Junze, I hope you find an even brighter future at your new school.”