Assistant Architect by Xi He Qing Ling

Chapter 214: Fireworks

___________________

Chapter 214: Fireworks

Zhang Siyi saw Gu Yu beckoning him to come over. Zhang Siyi nervously looked around and got up, and walked around the coffee table to sit.

Originally sitting beside him, his sister grabbed a cushion and sat on the floor, leaving a space for Zhang Siyi to sit. Once Zhang Siyi left his seat, with unspoken understanding, Gu Yu’s parents closed the gap and leaned together.

Gu Yu reached out to grasp Zhang Siyi’s hand and guided Zhang Siyi to sit closely next to him. Gu Yu intertwined his fingers with Zhang Siyi as they both looked at Gu Yu’s parents. With emotion, Gu Yu addressed his parents.

“Dad. Mom. I’m sorry for concealing my sexual orientation for so long. It was rather immature of me. In this country, which focuses on the tradition of filial piety, I, as a gay man, can’t be romantically involved with women to continue future generations. I’m deeply ashamed for having hid this because I never expected you to understand and receive your blessing. I didn’t think coming out would be so easy. What you said suddenly, makes me feel unbelievably happy. From the bottom of my heart, thank you very much. To have you as parents is the greatest asset in my life.”

Although Gu Yu paused his quivering speech several times to recover his solemn tone, he courageously kept talking. His hoarse but serious voice was particularly dramatic against the musical background of the Spring Festival Gala.

With their intertwined fingers, Gu Yu held Zhang Siyi’s hand up and said: “Let me take this opportunity to formally introduce you to the person I intend to spend my life with, Zhang Siyi.”

Zhang Siyi looked at Gu Yu’s Father and Mother. He was already feeling emotional over Father Gu’s ‘chat’. Originally, he thought he would have a long drawn out battle with family in order to gain acceptance for his relationship with Gu Yu. Did he ever think it would be this easy? From the bottom of his heart, he followed Gu Yu’s sentiments and took a moment to thank his parents: “Uncle, Aunt. Thank you for your understanding!”

Gu Yu glanced at Zhang Siyi and laughed: “Why are you calling them Uncle and Aunt? They have already accepted you, so call them properly.”

Zhang Siyi: “…”

Together, the family laughed out loud. Mother Gu had covered her mouth. Both parents narrowed their brows and looked back at Zhang Siyi expectantly.

Having been introduced to the family like a young daughter-in-law, Zhang Siyi was  beet red. He was a little shy and tentatively called: “Mother, Father.”

Gu Yu’s Father laughed loudly and the others followed suit. The tense air surrounding them evaporated. He patted Mother Gu’s back and said: “It’s time for his Red Envelope.”

Mother Gu reacted and immediately took out a Red Envelope from inside a clothing pocket and handed it to Zhang Siyi with a smile.

Gu Yu and Zhang Siyi were very surprised. His parents even prepared a red envelope? It must have been determined a long time ago!

Not sure if he should accept the Red Envelope, Zhang Siyi looked at Gu Yu. He gave Zhang Siyi a nudge and said with a smile: “It’s a parents’ gift. Take it.”

“…….” Taking the Red Envelope, Zhang Siyi said thank you again. Although his heart was full of joy, he also felt guilty. In essence, he had quietly married himself off without his biological parent’s consent…. Dad, Mom… Sorry! (& _ &)

Gu Yu asked his dad: “How could you have a Red Envelope ready ahead of time? Were you so convinced I was bringing home my lifetime partner?”

Father Gu snorted then said: “When you can worry about a pumpkin for so long, let alone a person, do you think I don’t know about your head-strong personality? Once you make a decision, do you ever give up?”

Zhang Siyi, Gu Yao: “Poof!” The pumpkin !! (≧▽≦)

Gu Yu: “……”

At this time, Gu Yu’s Father seriously inquired: “Does Zhang Siyi’s parents know about this yet?”

Head hanging low, Zhang Siyi felt even more guilty and answered with a no.

Sighing, Father Gu pointed his finger at his son and shook his head: “To go after Secretary’s Zhang’s son….. I really don’t know who gave you the courage.”

Gu Yu silently smiled at Zhang Siyi with eyes full of love.

Feeling a little embarrassed, Zhang Siyi felt the need to explain: “No. He didn’t….. It was mutual. We are in love.”

Rubbing Zhang Siyi’s lower back, Gu Yu smiled.

With some apprehension, Gu Yu’s Father calmly asked Zhang Siyi: “Are you the only child in your family? Although young peoples’ concerns over love and marriage are less constrained then they used to be, you are with a man. Your parents are unlikely to accept it.”

Zhang Siyi was silent. Indeed, how many parents can also be as understanding as the Gu family?

He scratched his head in wonder: “I haven’t really thought about when I should tell them.”

Gu Yu’s father looked at Zhang Siyi sharply: “If your parents object, will you regret being with Yu?”

Zhang Siyi froze and immediately shook his head: “No. If they opposed it, I would only regret being separated from him.”

Assuring them both, Zhang Siyi held Gu Yu’s hand tightly: “I have decided to spend my life with Gu Yu.”

Father Gu looked slightly worried. He nodded with a smile and said: “I didn’t expect someone as young as you would be so brave. No matter what their future attitude will be, remember that parents always want their children to be happy. All problems can be solved with communication. If there is an issue, at least, you and Gu Yu have a permanent home here and safe haven.”

Zhang Siyi felt hot and was almost moved to tears.

Gu Yu whispered in his ear: “We are no longer two against four, but five against two.”

Not understanding what Gu Yu was talking about, Zhang Siyi sat silent and motionless, however after a few seconds, he quickly grasped his meaning and nodded in affirmation. Now that both Gu Yu’s sister and his parents were on his side, Zhang Siyi was full of hope for the future.

After everything was said and done, there wasn’t anything else to gossip about and thus, Zhang Siyi and Gu Yu could relax uninhibited. The family watched the Spring Festival Gala happily. Since their relationship wasn’t a secret, they no longer had to hide their affection.

Gazes with love and affection; you touch my hand; I rub your waist; feeling each other’s warmth…. Feelings that have been bound for so long were suddenly liberated and as a result, an unhindered loving side was boldly displayed in front of the family.

With their parents’ acceptance and understanding, good feelings saturated the air and everyone except for Gu Yao felt joyful. She, on the other hand, had to endure the newlyweds display of affection for two days alone!

In the middle of the program, Zhang Siyi laughed wholeheartedly over a skit. However, Gu Yu didn’t find it funny and they unknowingly bickered like a married couple.

Since Zhang Siyi’s opponent was Gu Yu, he didn’t have much of a chance at winning. Sure enough, after a few words, Zhang Siyi was shut down.

This kind of scene was familiar to Gu Yao in Haicheng. Typically, her brother was exceedingly refined and courteous to his elders, but the younger the person was, the more her brother’s tongue was poisonous.

It was the first time Father Gu witnessed his son bully Zhang Siyi. He couldn’t help speaking up and try to educate his son: “Yu, Zhang Siyi is younger than you so you need to take care of him more. He isn’t related by blood so you can’t just bully him around, like your sister. You better be careful because one of these days, you will return home to an empty house and you will never find him.”

Gu Yu: “…”

Gu Yao: “…” Why am I so bitter? _ (: 3 」∠) _

Zhang Siyi had already been blasted by Gu Yu. Hearing Father Gu’s declaration suddenly, was like a downpour during a long dry drought. He almost jumped up from the sofa in excitement. He glared at Gu Yu, silently saying: Did you hear? Don’t bully me!

Gu Yu saw Zhang Siyi’s mischievous expression and raised his eyebrows in response. He grinned: “Hmmm …”

Zhang Siyi: “…” Oh shit! (= 皿 =)

After a while, Gu Yu grabbed a mandarin orange from the coffee table and gently peeled it. He sectioned off a piece and raised his hand to give it to Zhang Siyi. Instinctively, since his attention was on the TV, Zhang Siyi opened his mouth to be fed and Gu Yu put it in his mouth.

After a dozen pieces, Zhang Siyi asked in a small voice: “Why are you feeding me something?”

Gu Yu took a freshly peeled mandarin and said: “Didn’t my dad just tell me to take care of you? Eat more, Gu Yao has never been treated this way.”

Zhang Siyi: “…”

Watching their behavior, Father and Mother Gu began to worry again. When it comes to love, why does it seem like their son acted like a kid from elementary school?

Near midnight, Gu Yu gathered Zhang Siyi and Gu Yao to watch the fireworks together.

Lighting off fireworks during New Year’s has long been a distant memory for Zhang Siyi. When his grandfather was still alive, they would light fireworks during New Year’s at his house. Later, when he passed and the family spent New Year’s at home, it was strictly forbidden to light fireworks in the city. After spending time abroad for several years during the holiday, he hadn’t had the chance to experience the fun of a traditional Chinese New Year with fireworks for a long time.

Gu Yu went with Zhang Siyi and Gu Yao to the roof deck and at 11.55 at night, the surrounding night sky lit up with various fireworks.

Zhang Siyi was ecstatic: “I thought we couldn’t lite fireworks off. I didn’t bring any.”

Gu Yu said aloud: “It is like this every year for ten to twenty minutes around midnight.” Taking out a surprise, he revealed a few firework sticks called a roman candle: “Come on, let’s also celebrate.”

Gu Yao and Zhang Siyi were very excited: “Wow! Where did you get them?!”

Gu Yu winked at them and mysteriously said: “I asked a friend to buy them and had them hidden here.”

Squealing in delight, the two walked over to grab the stick. He asked his sister: “Can you really do it?”

Gu Yao: “Why can’t I hold it? I’m not a kid!”

Gu Yu laughed and said: “So brave!”

Right before midnight, Gu Yu lit the three roman candles and in a line, they pointed them up in the same direction. Gu Yao screamed in delight as a bright pink bloom shot out of the stick with a bang and flew up into the sky. Gu Yu firework stick was next and an orange bloom burst out larger than Gu Yao’s. Zhang Siyi’s held his roman candle steadily, but nothing happened.

The roman candle only had ten shots. After watching five rounds burst out of Gu Yao’s, Zhang Siyi spoke up: “Gu Yu, did you lite mine? It’s not working!”

With his own fireworks in his hand, Gu Yu looked over at Zhang Siyi and wasn’t sure if his was lit or not. Gu Yu moved over to stand behind him and while Gu Yu gave him the roman candle to hold, he wrapped his arms around Zhang Siyi waist then placed his hands back onto Zhang Siyi’s hand’s holding both sticks: “Lets hold them.”

As Zhang Siyi held the two roman candles, the closeness of Gu Yu breath tickled his ears. Together, they watched the fireworks shot out a bloom one after another. In his lover’s arms, Zhang Siyi’s heart warmed quickly.

On a roof across the way, someone began to count down and shouted: “Ten, nine, eight…”

One after another, Zhang Siyi felt the pulse of the two roman candles shooting out a firework bloom.  He shouted excitedly: “Ahhhhhhhhh!  It’s coming out now! “

A dazzling red and then a gorgeous purple burst forth and flew into the sky! Gu Yu followed the voices from rooftops and shouted: “Seven, six, five …”

Gu Yao interjected sadly and said: “Oh, darn. My firework is out.”

Zhang Siyi continued the countdown: “Four, three, two …”

In unison, they screamed: “Happy New Year !!!”

Watching the blasts of the roman candle, Zhang Siyi was still giddy over the fireworks and laughed. He was about to say something when he heard Gu Yu affectionately speak into his ear: “Siyi, I love you.”

_________________________

Assistant Architect by Xi He Qing Ling

Chapter 213: Coming Out

_____________________

At eight in the evening, the screen was full of flowers and the host joyfully wished everyone a Happy Chinese New Year. The familiar music on the television from the Spring Festival prelude filled the otherwise silent room.

Trembling, Zhang Siyi was sitting between Father and Mother Gu, waiting for the inquisition.

“Zhang Siyi. So how does it feel now that you have worked for a year and a half?” Father Gu calmly asked while raising his teacup.

Putting his hands on his knees as if he was reporting to a teacher, Zhang Siyi solemnly responded:” Very Good Sir.”

Gu Yu’s Father paused for a moment then stated: “You are now living together with Yu and Yao, yes? “

Zhang Siyi: “… Hmm. “

Father Gu slowly drank from his teacup then faintly asked: “His house only has two rooms. Where do you stay?”

Zhang Siyi: “Uh, well, I stay with Elder Gu in his room.”

Father Gu smiled: “He really doesn’t treat you as an outsider, does he. Heh.”

Zhang Siyi: “…”

After his statement, Zhang Siyi could feel his face start to race. Despite the music from the TV, Zhang Siyi couldn’t hear anything.

“Yu has always been a very independent person since he was child. He always did what he wanted and never cared about what his parents thought. In personal matters, he seemed to be at a loss. For so many years, we’ve never saw him have a close relationship with anyone. He used to be so arrogant that we worried he wouldn’t be able to meet someone.” Gu Yu’s Father glanced at Zhang Siyi and smiled at him. “You are the first one he brought home.”

In nervousness, Zhang Siyi heart pounded in his chest. As beads of sweat formed on his brow, his mind became numb and there was a dull buzz in his ears, blocking out all sounds…. Wha, what does Gu Yu’s Father mean exactly…? What he said, no one would misinterpret it as ‘ordinary friends’…… right?

Starting to panic, Zhang Siyi tightened his hands on his knees in order to stop him from shaking. He glanced in the direction of the kitchen with pleading eyes….. These questions… Your Father…..What should I do? Gu Yu.. help me!

The background music of the television program was too loud for those in the kitchen to notice. There was no way Gu Yu and his sister could know what was going on. Suddenly, Zhang Siyi felt a warm hand on his knee. Gu Yu’s Mother had reached over to hold Zhang Siyi hand.

Zhang Siyi was trembling and nervously looking at Gu Yu’s Mother. She was watching him with gentle eyes and patting his hand in comfort. Although she couldn’t speak, she was soothing him in such a tactful way.

Her small comfort appeased Zhang Siyi’s trembling soul. With a red neck and ears, he hurriedly retracted his eyes and looked down at the floor, like he was a criminal caught red-handed. He quietly stammered out: “Uncle, Aunt….you….. you…… know……”

Part of Zhang Siyi thought when Gu Yu Mother’s knew the truth, she would show revulsion, but all she did was give Zhang Siyi one reassuring squeeze of his hand. Next to him, Gu Yu Father just sighed and continued to drink tea, like nothing happened.

…….They know. They really know everything……

Since their reaction was so calm and tolerant, unlike his imagined anger and resentment, the nerves and stress that weighed on him, ever since entering Gu Yu’s family’s home, were instantly relieved. His tearful and welling emotions almost overwhelmed him. He slowly relaxed and felt at ease.

His moment of respite didn’t last long however, in another minute, Zhang Siyi panicked again.  ….They might know, but what do they think about a relationship between two men? Will they accept it?

Although he wanted to say more, neither Father Gu nor Mother Gu inquired further. The three of them sat quietly together watching TV. After a while, Gu Yu and his sister came over with a fruit platter.

When Gu Yu reached over to place the fruit tray on the coffee table, Gu Yu caught site of the three of them. Zhang Siyi winked at him with a strange expression on his face.

Little did he know, while he was cleaning up the dishes, Zhang Siyi was being interrogated by his parents. He pretended to be calm and asked: “Has the Spring Festival Gala begun? Why are you just sitting here quietly watching it?”

Father Gu smiled wide and said: “We already chatted.”

Gu Yu laughed and asked: “Oh? What did you talk about?”

Father Gu: “You.”

Gu Yu was stunned. He smiled: “Hmm? What about me did you talk about?”

“We talked about when will you be honest and talk with me and your mom.” Father Gu put away his smile and placed his teacup on the coffee table with a decisive ‘thunk’.  

Practically jumping out of his seat by the intense atmosphere, Zhang Siyi sat sandwiched between Father Gu and Mother Gu, shivering like a little lamb.

Gu Yu: “…”

Father Gu glanced at Gu Yao and squinted at her. He asked: “Yao Yao knows, right?”

Gu Yao: “…”

Zhang Siyi always thought Gu Yu was terrible when get got angry. When he saw Senior Gu do the exact thing Gu Yu does when he gets angry, he knew from whom he got it; like father, like son.

Gu Yu’s expression changed. He looked back and forth between Zhang Siyi and his parents for a moment and finally understand what had happened.

“You… When did you know?” The volume of his voice was subconsciously submissive and lowered by two degrees.

“Is knowing when that important now?” Father Gu sternly stated. Although he didn’t lose his temper in front of Zhang Siyi, Father Gu had shown the most authoritarian attitude ever.

The original festive holiday became a ‘coming out’ inquiry instead. Zhang Siyi was so frightened he sat motionless. Gu Yao didn’t say a peep. Gu Yu was forced to analyze the situation alone.

As his mind was mulling over the sudden change, Gu Yu quickly thought about any details that might have revealed his relationship. He recalled the shadow photograph he posted online, but his parents weren’t in the group chat. However, since he himself taught his parents how to use the internet, he couldn’t cross out that possibility completely.

Gu Yu thought his father’s guess was based on that photo. Unexpectedly, his father said something very surprising. “When you were seventeen years old.”

Gu Yu’s stunned expression was obvious. Even Zhang Siyi and Gu Yao were dumbfounded.

Father Gu looked over at Mother Gu and thundered again: “Maybe even earlier.”

Gu Yao: “…”

Zhang Siyi: “…”

Gu Yu: “…”

Father Gu slowly explained: “When you were seventeen years old, I accidentally discovered that you were taking out gay-related books from the Ningcheng Library. At that time, I had doubts and talked to your mother in private. I didn’t expect your mother to know earlier than I.”

Mother Gu looked at Gu Yu in worry. Soon, with a pacifying look, she nodded at him slightly as if to encourage him positively and not to be afraid.

Gu Yu heart was calm and looking towards his Father again, he waited for his next words.

Father Gu said: “Your mother has always been careful. She told me that you were particularly cold to girls early on. At that time, information was scarce and I did not understand what gay meant. When I learned about it, I was very shocked. I wanted to talk to you and guide you, but your mother stopped me. She said one of her relatives was also like you. Because he liked the same sex, his father beat him and broke his legs and thus, became disabled.”

Gu Yu interrupted him in shock: “Was it…”

Father Gu looked up and nodded: “Yes. Your cousin.”

Gu Yu’s cousin was a very gentle and beautiful person. He was a brilliant artist and an excellent opponent in chess. When Gu Yu was a kid, whenever he went to his grandmother’s house, he loved to play with his cousin. It was such a pity that he was crippled.

Moreover, not only did his cousin never marry, he had only lived until thirty-five years old. When Gu Yu was fourteen, an age where death was traumatic, his cousin died. Since it affected him deeply, he suffered for a long time. Only today had Gu Yu learned the secret about his cousin from his father.

The jubilant background music was in stark contrast to the tragic topic of discussion. Pausing for a moment of silence, everyone looked at Father Gu expectantly, waiting for him to continue the story.

“After listening to your mother tragic story, I longer felt the need to straighten you out. Your Mother and I researched more about homosexuality in private to have a better understanding of your sexuality. We knew you were an independent and intelligent child who was more mature then the average kid. In order to respect you, we never asked partially because, we were afraid you would rebel. We patiently waited for your trust and take the initiative to open up your heart to us. We waited for thirteen years until you brought someone home for Chinese New Year and yet you still didn’t say anything.”

Looking Gu Yu in the eye, Father Gu slammed the table with his hand and loudly demanded: “Were you ever planning on telling us!?”

Trembling, he was deeply touched. Gu Yu opened his mouth slightly to speak, but no words came out.

Someone could only be patient for so long. Out of love and respect, his parents waited, and waited, and waited…. for the truth that Gu Yu thought he buried and kept secret for thirteen years. It wasn’t any wonder that his Father was angry and upset.

“It wasn’t like I wasn’t going to say anything. I didn’t want to take the risk before I thought the time was right…..” Gu Yu whispered.

Father Gu was angry and ridiculed him: “We watched you grow up; your thoughts and your feelings. Do you think your Mother and I wouldn’t notice? Playing mental games, do you think you are in control of everything? In the eyes of parents, you will always be a child!”

Gu Yu lowered his eyes and weakly apologized: “I’m sorry.”

A little emotional, the corner of Mother Gu’s eyes was red. Watching how uncomfortable her son was, she immediately reached across Zhang Siyi’s body, to pull on her husband’s sleeve.

Father Gu sighed helplessly. He regained his tea cup and lifted it to his mouth to drink. He steadily said: “About your sexual orientation; we didn’t know how long you intended to hide from us, so we tried not to put pressure on you.”

Gu Yu: “…”

It’s no wonder his parents never pressured Gu Yu about marriage. From the beginning, they knew the truth.

Father Gu looked at Zhang Siyi’s pale and frightened face and smiled at him. His tone relaxed: “It wasn’t until last year when Gu Yu returned home that we noticed a small change in him. A month later, Zhang Siyi came to visit for Chinese New Year and we knew a seed was planted and growing….. Anyway, you have found somebody to love and share your life with. Your Mother and I are very happy for you.

Sparkling with the joy of acceptance, Gu Yu and Zhang Siyi looked deeply into each other’s’ eyes. They could see their lives together flash before their eyes. As the dust settled, finally, their hearts landed in safe waters and had no need to feel afraid.

______________________________

Assistant Architect by Xi He Qing Ling

Chapter 212: Guest

_________________

Gu Yu’s casual and indifferent tone made Zhang Siyi feel annoyed. Was there anything more irritating then having ones’ hard work mean less in the face of another, like Gu Yu, who didn’t study at all?

Luckily for Zhang Siyi, he wasn’t in high school during the time Gu Yu was in high school. A gifted student like Gu Yu was rare. Even He Chengtian continued to shoulder resentment towards Gu Yu over their past years together in high school.

Gu Yu probably wouldn’t even understand what a normal person went through during high school. Just like now, after his flippant remark, Gu Yu patted the bed next to him and said: “You will sleep here, right?”

Even though Zhang Siyi was really angry, he couldn’t resist Gu Yu request. Almost all of the cells in his body tingled with excitement despite his annoyance.

Since they weren’t large men, as a double sized bed, it was big enough for them to lie down together, albeit very snug. They should be able to sleep comfortably enough. Since the bed they normally slept in at home in Haicheng was a king size bed, Gu Yu was worried Zhang Siyi would refuse.

Staying close with Gu Yu, there was no way Zhang Siyi wouldn’t want to, but unfortunately, he was a guest and only a thin wall separated themselves from his parents. After feeling so excited, he suddenly felt awful.

Thinking about when he arrived earlier, Zhang Siyi felt a little embarrassed: “How can you say that to your dad earlier!?”

Gu Yu laughed: “I’m testing their bottom line. I usually joke around with my Dad while at home. You don’t have to be so nervous.”

Zhang Siyi felt a little envious over Gu Yu’s relationship with his Father. Unlike their easy going bantering, there were clear status boundaries between Zhang Siyi’s Father and himself. He would never joke around with his own father.

In contemplation, Gu Yu held his chin. He mused: “My parents’ reactions weren’t too strange. I think their ability to accept us will be better than I anticipated.“

Thinking of something else Zhang Siyi interrupted: “Hey, does your mother really not speak?”

In affirmation, Gu Yu softly said: “Hmm.”

Since his expression remained calm, curious, Zhang Siyi was bold enough to ask: “Is she deaf?”

While furrowing his brow, Gu Yu shook his head and responded: “No. It’s a bit complicated….. My mother’s family were scholars that had some social standing within the local area. My grandfather was an official when my mother was five. When she turned nine, she witnessed my grandfather’s persecution and was killed. She was greatly traumatized and since that time, she wouldn’t speak.”

Even though Gu Yu could have brushed aside the issue by saying ‘yes’, he truthfully explained the real reason to Zhang Siyi.

There was a big shock in Zhang Siyi’s heart. The tragic history was too far away from his generation. He never expected that such pains would be left on the loved ones of those around him.

“Then, is it a psychological problem?” Zhang Siyi asked.

“Probably, we don’t really know. There weren’t obvious medical ailments. When my father married my mother, he thought she was physically disabled. Later, with the development of information, we learned from newspapers and television that her lack of speech was likely caused by a problem with the central nervous system. It’s a type of aphasia. Gu Yu sighed and sadly said: “since she was already used to a life without speech, we never forced her.”

With a pained expression, Zhang Siyi furrowed his brows and lamented: “It’s a pity.” …… Gu Yu’s mother is so beautiful. She should have been the perfect person.

Gu Yu smiled bitterly and said: “It is a pity, but my mother believes that there is a gain to every loss. With the loss of her voice, she has gained a happy and perfect family.”

He looked down, and said: “When I was a child, I thought all mothers couldn’t speak. At some point in my youth, I realized that it was only my mother who couldn’t talk. When I was older, asked my father about it and he told me the truth. He joked about it and said that if my mother was able to talk, he wouldn’t have been able to marry her.”

Zhang Siyi didn’t know whether to feel bad about her situation or feel happy for his family. Indeed, the love between members of the Gu family was clear. With exceedingly well-mannered and prosperous children, the family was picture perfect. A shadow of doubt crossed Zhang Siyi’s mind. What if his mother knew her son liked men? Would she still feel the same happiness?

Gu Yu seemed to be able to sense what he was thinking. He took Zhang Siyi hand into his own and squeezed it to comfort him: “Since they believe in these philosophies, I don’t think it will be very difficult for us. They will understand that I can’t take home a daughter-in-law and instead will gain another son-in-law. You will treat them well, right?”

Zhang Siyi nodded vigorously and holding Gu Yu’s hand tightly, he said: “Of course.” Perhaps the beautiful things in life are made even more precious because of their flaws.

Silently, Zhang Siyi leaned on Gu Yu for a while, taking comfort in each other’s presence. He was curious, but also embarrassed. Eventually, his curiosity won out and mustard up the courage to ask: “How do you and your Mother communicate? Sign language?”

“My sister and I can understand sign language used for daily life. I will also teach it to you. However, you don’t have to learn how to do it because my mother can hear. Usually, if there was something urgent she would press a button on the phone in response to questions, but now she can text us directly. She can also write notes. My mother writes very beautifully. Come I’ll show you.”

With Gu Yu’s encouragement, Zhang Siyi got up and followed him to his parent’s room. In the hallway, he saw Father Gu coming out of the kitchen with food in hand. He greeted them both and said: “The food will be ready very soon.”

Responding to his father, Gu Yu said: “I’m going to take Zhang Siyi to see mother’s calligraphy.” He continued down the hallway towards a door and pushed it open.

Across from the bed, there was an alcove with a square bookcase against the wall on one side. Stacked on the shelves were piles of paper. Also, there was a felt covered case.

Gu Yu picked up the case and opened it for Zhang Siyi to see. Inside, there was a pen, brushes and all types of writing.

“Wow! It’s so awesome!” Zhang Siyi revealed his admiration through his actions and words.

Proud of his mother, Gu Yu said: “Isn’t it?”

In fact, as a layman, Zhang Siyi doesn’t understand the nuances of calligraphy.  He doesn’t really know the differences between good or poor-quality writing. The writing looks like those in a copybook sold in bookstores. Anyways, since Gu Yu said it was good, then it must be.

Gu Yao came into the room looking for them: “What are you looking at? It’s time to eat!”

Zhang Siyi carefully rolled up the scroll he was looking at. Smiling he asked: “I’m looking at your mother’s calligraphy. Does Gu Yao write as well?”

Gu Yu replied earnestly: “Yes. She also won first prize in the city’s calligraphy contest when she was a child.”

Zhang Siyi: “So amazing!”

Gu Yao scrunched up her face and said: “Brother don’t patronize me! You know my writing is the worst in our family!”

Zhang Siyi: “Eh? You compare each other’s writing?”

Gu Yao: “Why wouldn’t we? In our family, writing is our status in the family. Mom writes the best. She is the boss and father is second. My brother has worked hard every day in recent years and will probably surpass Father soon. I’ve been lazy since college and haven’t practiced for a long time! “

Zhang Siyi was surprised to learn that Gu Yu practiced calligraphy all the time for the sake of the family’s competition.

Gu Yu sighed and lowered his voice to say: “Hey, no way. Second Brother’s scribbles are so bad. It will take a long time and a lot of work to simply catch up.”

Zhang Siyi: “…” Shit! (= 皿 =)

Gu Yu touched his chin in thought and said: “But certainly, he won’t be at the bottom. My impression of the guy’s writing with the surname He was even worse.”

Gu Yao had a delayed reaction. She blushed suddenly and shouted: “Hey!”

Zhang Siyi was holding his belly laughing. Father Gu called them over to eat. Then the three of them pushed and shoved out of the door.

There were five different dishes and a bowl of soup on the table. Although the food wasn’t fancy, it was full of color and smelled delicious, which made everyone excited to eat.

Just like last year, everyone waited until each of the members of the family sat down before everyone moved their chopsticks.

Father Gu raised a glass toward Zhang Siyi with a smile and said: “Last year, we had two pairs of chopsticks at the table. This year, we have added another pair.”

After hearing Father Gu’s sentiments, Zhang Siyi was frightened again. Wasn’t another-pair-of-chopsticks alluding to him? Did Father Gu guess correctly about their relationship? Or, did he think he was with Gu Yao……? That can’t be right! From the beginning, since he was always with Gu Yu, it was clear his relationship was closer to him than it was with Gu Yao.

His father’s remarks also surprised Gu Yu. He recovered quickly and calmly asked his father: “Didn’t you say ‘hands’ last time?”

Scared, Zhang Siyi picked up his glass trembling. He remembered last year, there was indeed a photo full of hands representing the Gu family posted to social media.

Gu Yu father quipped: “What’s the difference between a hand and a pair of chopsticks?”

Gu Yu: “…”

Zhang Siyi: “…”

Zhang Siyi was dumbfounded. At this moment, his sharp eye caught Mother Gu glancing at Father Gu with a meaningful look of ‘stop teasing’.

Immediately afterwards,  Gu Yu’s father laughed and said, “Okay, let’s eat. The more the merrier! Evening dinner will be even more spectacular!”

Looking at all he options, Zhang Siyi said: “I’m not sure which to eat; meat or fish? They all look so good!”

Father Gu smiled: “Make yourself at home and eat as you please, don’t hesitate.”

Still feeling the shock to his heart, Zhang Siyi nodded.

Even though no one was bothered by Father Gu’s opening remarks, the table remained quiet. This was because of the new ultra-thin TV hanging on the wall in front of the family’s table. While eating lunch, they watched the annual Spring Festival Gala. Even though the program had been running for thirty years, the host voice brought them joy.

Afterwards, Father and Mother Gu cleared the dishes and chopsticks. While they went to prepared the New Year’s Cake, they let the children talk amongst themselves

At first, the three of them pretended to watch TV in the living room. Gu Yu sat for a while, but ultimately, with his own agenda in mind, he told his parents he was going to take out Zhang Siyi and Gu Yao.

As soon as they went downstairs, Zhang Siyi swore. He nervously said: “Shit, does your parents already know everything?”

Gu Yao echoed his sentiments: “I know, right? When my Father said that at the table, I was shocked!”

Zhang Siyi told them about the expressions on Mother Gu’s face that he observed: “It wasn’t just my imagination, right? Really, I think your parents already know.”

“I’m not too sure.” Gu Yu glanced at his sister and asked: “Did you mention anything?”

Feeling wronged, Gu Yao shouted: “I haven’t said anything about it!”

Zhang Siyi was frightened by the situation: “What do we do now?”

Gu Yu watched their frighten antics and stated: “What’s the problem? Isn’t their calm and natural reaction a good thing?”

Zhang Siyi froze for a moment. Hitting his thigh, he thought, yes, if it was this easy, then coming out would be simple and they no longer had to hide. However, because his parents were so calm, it seemed abnormal which made him feel like he was dreaming. He always felt like coming out was going to be a much bigger problem to overcome in the future!

Pondering their predicament, Gu Yu furrowed his brows in thought and said: “Let’s wait and see. You don’t have to be so nervous. If my parents really have guessed the truth, then their method of revelation was very gentle. It just proves how tolerant and accepting they are. Its not too late to be happy, right?”

Zhang Siyi and Gu Yao nodded. Gu Yu was also relieved.

After drinking a cup of coffee and wandering around outside, they returned home early. Gu Yao gave Zhang Siyi an old photo album full of family pictures. Zhang Siyi squealed in delight. He wanted to take home all of Gu Yu’s childhood photos.

At night, with the abundant delicacies present, the Chinese New Year’s dinner was richer than at noon. To name a few, there were pickled big yellow croaker, twice-baked roasted bran, creamed red crab, poached eggs with soy sauce … Zhang Siyi’s eyes glowed. He took several photos to post on his social media page.

Before they ate, Gu Yu proposed that the five of them take a hand photo like they did last year. Zhang Siyi’s hand was added to his family’s portrait. His Father and Mother didn’t show signs of disapproval. They both smiled broadly as if they already regarded Zhang Siyi as part of the family.

After dinner, according to their family’s traditions, brother and sister Gu cleared the dishes from the table and brought them to the kitchen. Zhang Siyi originally wanted to help, but was stopped by Father Gu: “Zhang Siyi, you are a guest. Come and watch the Spring Festival Gala with us.”

Zhang Siyi glanced in the direction of the kitchen for Gu Yu and silently asked for help with his eyes. Not being able to do anything about it, Gu Yu shrugged his shoulders and gave him a I-can’t-help-you gesture. Zhang Siyi had to bite the bullet and sit with his parents alone.

Gu Yu’s Father didn’t sit next to his Mother. Instead, he sat on sofa and patted the seat next to him, offering a place for Zhang Siyi to sit.

Zhang Siyi: “…” Shit! He didn’t want the privilege of being a guest!  (t 皿 t)

_______________________________