The doctor couldn’t help but sigh as he looked at the pregnant woman in front of him, who had a noticeably large belly. They had been diligent in their visits, and with the past gossip surrounding Miao Xing, who had been discharged from a military hospital, everyone in the medical field was quite familiar with the couple. Since their first visit, perhaps even He Xuezhong herself was unaware of the changes happening to her.
Usually, pregnant women tend to look less attractive than before their pregnancies, with their swollen bellies, various pregnancy symptoms, and the unavoidable weight gain. Many obstetricians had seen quite a few of such transformations. However, this was the first time they had seen someone who looked even better while pregnant.
During her first examination, He Xuezhong had a slightly yellowish complexion and would often reveal her shyness when looking at people. Although she tried hard not to show it, her discomfort was easily noticeable. In contrast, looking at her now, her previously rough and yellowish skin had transformed into smooth and fair skin, clear of any blemishes. Even her delicate features seemed to have brightened over the past few months, creating a soft and captivating appearance.
When she looked at others, she displayed a charm and grace that were palpable. It’s no wonder, as she had a loving husband who didn’t burden her with household chores in the faculty dormitory. Instead, he encouraged her education and even hired others to help with preparing pregnancy meals, fearing she might tire herself.
Amid a myriad of pregnancy meal suggestions from the obstetrics department, Lin Shiheng was the first to follow through with a menu habitually. With a caring husband, a beloved career, and the privilege of focusing solely on her studies without the need to cook or wash clothes, it was no surprise she looked so well.
Anyone could see that He Xuezhong was in excellent condition, yet Lin Shiheng remained anxious, always accompanying her for check-ups. He was aware that He Xuezhong had passed her entrance exam and was preparing for the official medical licensing examination in four months. She was very diligent, seizing every opportunity to study.
Diligent and determined individuals always earn admiration, which was true for He Xuezhong. With her gentle personality, swift grasp of medical knowledge, and a strong bond with her husband, the likelihood of staying close after graduation was high. Their choices for hospitals were limited to military hospitals or their own hospital, and given that they could potentially be colleagues in the future, the nurses and doctors also took the initiative to build a good relationship with their future coworker.
As He Xuezhong approached her due date next month, the doctor, even though she was in great condition, still dutifully reminded her of various precautions. Watching the handsome man in military uniform before her attentively take notes deepened the doctor’s sentiments.
Such a devoted husband, simultaneously achieving success and attending to responsibilities; how could there be such a perfect man in the world? It’s no wonder that young nurses brightened up at the sight of him and couldn’t stop chattering after he left.
“I’ve noted everything down, do you have anything to add?” the doctor asked with a smile, shaking his head. “No, she’s in great health, and the baby is healthy too. It should go smoothly. If you’re still worried, you can bring her in for admission a few days before her due date.”
After confirming all of the doctor’s advice was clear, Lin Shiheng revealed a relaxed smile on his handsome face. “Great, we’ll do that. Thank you, doctor.” After bidding farewell to the doctor, he supported his pregnant wife, who was finding it hard to move with her belly, and walked out, occasionally whispering gentle reassurances.
“Let’s take it slow; there’s no rush. We can just stroll around the mall a bit.”
Upon hearing this, He Xuezhong hurriedly said, “Don’t buy me any more clothes! My size has changed; those clothes won’t fit once the baby is born. It would be such a waste.”
“You’ve worked hard, so you deserve a nice treat. Don’t worry; I just received a bonus, and we’re not short on money.”
He Xuezhong felt touched but also somewhat helpless. “The money is all with me, so I know we have it. But these clothes will only get a short use; it’s so wasteful. I can wear the old ones; there’s no need to buy new ones.”
Zhou Qianqian walked down the hallway with the examination form and happened to overhear this. Seeing the couple chatting happily and heading her way, she quickly turned and hid in a patient’s room.
Having been pregnant for three months, she was in the most uncomfortable phase of morning sickness and feeling unbearable, she came to the hospital. She had originally planned for her husband to accompany her since it was his day off, but he slept in and refused to go with her. In desperation, Zhou Qianqian sought out Miao Xing, hoping for some company.
After being dismissed, Miao Xing hadn’t worked since and was available all day, but when Zhou Qianqian asked her, Miao Xing declined, stating she needed to study.
With no other choice, Zhou Qianqian took a cab alone, but on the way, she couldn’t hold back and ended up throwing up everywhere. Though a kind stranger offered her tissues, the nauseating odor clung to her.
Zhou Qianqian had never liked Lin Shiheng and, after learning from Miao Xing that Zhang Yanming was ostracized in the army due to Lin Shiheng’s machinations, she maintained a cold attitude towards him and his wife, not wanting them to see her in such a miserable state.
She had never questioned Miao Xing’s words and firmly believed Lin Shiheng was a hypocrite, unable to truly care for his wife. The tenderness they witnessed towards He Xuezhong was nothing more than a facade for them to see.
Yet, at this moment, hiding behind the door of the room, Zhou Qianqian heard the gentle voice of that man coaxing his wife in a way reminiscent of a parent soothing a child.
“There’s no way someone pregnant should still be wearing old clothes. Be good and listen to me! You’re not saving money to furnish this old home, are you?”
“And let’s buy some little clothes for our baby too. I heard that baby clothes should be bought early, boiled in hot water, and then dried in the sun nicely to soften them. It’s not too early to buy now.”