Side Story 4: Meeting the Future Mother-in-Law

Compared to Yan Wenhua’s relatively smooth discovery of Yu Tian and Yan Ming’s relationship, Yu Tian now recalled that her mother’s reaction had been far more complicated.

Just like Yan Wenhua, Yu Tian’s mother, Song Chunxiang, didn’t use trendy social media platforms. She was completely unaware of the KissCam GIFs circulating online or Yu Tian’s social media presence, let alone the fact that her daughter was dating Yan Ming. However, Song Chunxiang had repeatedly expressed her hope that Yu Tian would focus on her studies and strive to become a leading figure in medicine. Due to this constant encouragement, Yu Tian had never found the right moment to reveal that she was already in a relationship.

“Little Yu, it’s wonderful that you’ve decided to return to school for further studies. Mom always felt regretful about your previous decision to step away from medicine. All those years of medical training shouldn’t go to waste—it’s such a pity! But at the time, you had just injured your hand and were deeply traumatized. You avoided anything related to hospitals and doctors because it brought back painful memories. I understood that and didn’t push you.”

“You were hurt in the hospital by a patient, so I assumed you might have developed some psychological scars. You avoided anything related to medicine, and I didn’t dare bring it up. Still, I thought even if you couldn’t become a surgeon, there were other paths—internal medicine, medical research, or becoming a professor at a medical school. Those are all excellent options.”

Song Chunxiang grew increasingly enthusiastic: “Being a medical school professor is such a noble profession! It’s no less respectable than being a doctor, and the environment is pure. Spending a few more years in academia isn’t a bad thing. You’re straightforward by nature, and focusing on research while living a simple life suits you well.”

After breaking free from her abusive ex-husband, Lao Dai, Song Chunxiang stopped attending blind dates. She embraced her independence and formed a close-knit group of friends—women who were either widowed like her or lifelong singletons. Together, they traveled frequently and enjoyed life to the fullest. By this stage in her life, Song Chunxiang had come to realize that while men were optional, money and health were indispensable. As long as she could find joy in life, everything else would fall into place.

Although Yu Tian hadn’t said much, Song Chunxiang had learned some details about her daughter’s hand injury from Qi Sihao. If not for someone named Zheng Tingfu, Yu Tian wouldn’t have been at the hospital that day, and the unfortunate incident might have been avoided. Though Qi Sihao didn’t elaborate further, respecting Yu Tian’s wishes, Song Chunxiang wasn’t naive. She knew that Yu Tian’s social circle was relatively small, consisting mostly of female friends and Qi Sihao, the neighbor she’d grown up with. The fact that Zheng Tingfu had invited Yu Tian to his consultation room suggested they were close—perhaps even in a romantic relationship.

Though Yu Tian had denied it, Song Chunxiang’s intuition was sharp. She understood that Zheng Tingfu was likely Yu Tian’s boyfriend at the time. This explained why Yu Tian had waited in his consultation room, only to be abandoned when the man fled, leaving her to face the consequences alone. That incident shattered Yu Tian’s dream of becoming a surgeon.

If Yu Tian hadn’t dated Zheng Tingfu, her life might have turned out very differently. She might have followed a path similar to Qi Sihao’s, rotating through departments in a hospital. Recalling how fragile and despondent Yu Tian had been after her injury, Song Chunxiang’s heart ached.

It was rare for Yu Tian to reconsider her stance and decide to face medicine again, pouring her energy into returning to school. Song Chunxiang was determined to ensure her daughter wouldn’t repeat past mistakes.

“Little Yu, you’re still young. Focus on your studies while you’re in school. I’m not one of those old-fashioned parents who constantly pressures their children to marry and have kids. A girl’s youth is precious, and you should make the most of this time. Publish papers, participate in research activities, and meet influential people in your field. Don’t get distracted by romance—prioritize your career.”

Song Chunxiang spoke from the heart: “I married your father too young, and soon after, you were born. Raising you and managing household chores tied me down. I had always wanted to learn a foreign language and become a translator, but that dream was put on hold. Now, even though I have time and attend senior university classes, my memory and learning ability aren’t what they used to be…”

“Many young people today choose not to marry or have children, and I fully support that. Don’t worry about me—I’m open-minded. Whether you want to marry or have kids is entirely up to you. At your age, with advancements in medicine, late marriage and childbirth aren’t issues. There’s no need to rush into relationships.”

From Qi Sihao, Song Chunxiang also knew that Zheng Tingfu was several years older than Yu Tian. This led her to generalize her disapproval: “In short, you’re only in your first year of graduate school. Focus on your studies—it’s the most important thing. Academic pursuits require patience and dedication. Don’t let romantic entanglements hold you back. Most importantly, avoid those senior medical students.”

“Not all medical professionals are good people. In fact, male doctors often have young, attractive nurses and admiring female patients or family members around them. Their profession makes them prone to temptation, and the hospital environment can be fiercely competitive. We already have one person in the family with medical expertise—you don’t need more.”

Song Chunxiang’s words were heartfelt, but Yu Tian felt increasingly awkward.

“Mom… actually, I’m already in a relationship…”

Song Chunxiang’s eyes widened in shock.

Yu Tian swallowed nervously: “And… he’s a senior from our medical school…”

Not only a senior, but a graduate senior?!

Song Chunxiang’s brows furrowed: “A Ph.D. or a master’s degree?”

Yu Tian replied proudly: “Ph.D.!”

Unfortunately, Song Chunxiang wasn’t impressed. How old must a graduated Ph.D. be? Older than Zheng Tingfu, who was already several years Yu Tian’s senior!

Could it be that Yu Tian, having lost her father during adolescence, subconsciously gravitated toward older men? The thought made Song Chunxiang feel guilty.

Before she could dwell on it further, Yu Tian’s next statement sent her emotions spiraling in another direction:

“Mom, next weekend, could we arrange for both families to meet? Actually, we were already planning to…”

Yu Tian’s plan seemed perfect. She intended to introduce her boyfriend as a highly accomplished Ph.D. alumnus from her school and department, hoping her mother would praise him before revealing his identity—officially announcing their relationship.

However, despite her careful planning, Yu Tian hadn’t anticipated Song Chunxiang’s reaction.

“What kind of shameless man is this, taking advantage of being a few years older than you? Did he deceive you? You’ve only just returned to school—how could you let him trick you into a relationship? And he’s already graduated! Did he meet you during an alumni event at your school?!”

Song Chunxiang’s anger stemmed from concern. Yu Tian had always been a level-headed child, not one to impulsively jump into relationships. Song Chunxiang knew she shouldn’t interfere, but Zheng Tingfu’s betrayal had been a wake-up call. Had she been more aware of Yu Tian’s social circle and warned her about Zheng Tingfu’s flaws, perhaps Yu Tian wouldn’t have continued associating with him.

Now that Yu Tian had worked hard to return to school, Song Chunxiang was determined to protect her daughter’s progress from any ill-intentioned man.

“Have you… slept with him?” Song Chunxiang asked bluntly, her gaze piercing.

Yu Tian immediately replied: “There’s no chance of pregnancy—I’m continuing my studies!”

Realizing her slip-up, Yu Tian inwardly groaned. Her response inadvertently confirmed that something had happened between them.

Sure enough, Song Chunxiang’s expression darkened, her eyes reddening with frustration.

Yu Tian felt the misunderstanding deepening and quickly tried to clarify her boyfriend’s identity.

At that moment, the doorbell rang insistently. With no choice, Song Chunxiang composed herself and opened the door.

To her surprise, Yan Ming stood outside.

This was the son of one of her former blind-date candidates—a talented attending physician. When Song Chunxiang had suffered an eye injury caused by Lao Dai’s domestic violence, it was Yan Ming who noticed the signs and called the police. He also performed the surgery to treat her injury.

Song Chunxiang had always held Yan Ming in high regard. Although her brief relationship with his father ended due to her own reasons, Yan Ming bore no grudge. Every time they met, he greeted her warmly and respectfully, calling her “Auntie.” His handsome and upright demeanor made him stand out, often drawing admiration from Song Chunxiang’s friends, who mistook him for a celebrity.

Song Chunxiang had always marveled at how small the city could feel. While she hadn’t encountered Yan Wenhua since their breakup, she frequently ran into Yan Ming—at the café near Yu Tian’s studio, the supermarket, the bakery near her home, the market, and even the flea market Yu Tian frequented.

Yan Ming had personally performed her eye surgery and regularly accompanied Yu Tian to check on her post-operative recovery. His care and professionalism left Song Chunxiang secretly impressed on multiple occasions. She often lamented that it was such a pity they hadn’t become family.

Especially on the day of her discharge, seeing Yu Tian and Yan Ming together—her beautiful daughter alongside the handsome and accomplished Yan Ming—made for a striking sight. If only she had felt a spark with Yan Wenhua, Yu Tian could have had a brother like Yan Ming, someone with both knowledge and integrity.

Ah, what a missed opportunity.

Although things hadn’t worked out between her and Yan Wenhua, Song Chunxiang had noticed that Yan Ming and Yu Tian occasionally interacted. Seeing Yan Ming at her doorstep wasn’t entirely unexpected for Song Chunxiang, even though she had just been blindsided by the news of Yu Tian dating an older man. Still, she managed to muster a smile as she greeted him.

“Auntie, I came to visit you,” Yan Ming said politely.

Dressed in dark clothing instead of his usual white doctor’s coat, Yan Ming appeared more composed and striking, exuding an aura that made people hesitant to approach him casually. Yet, Song Chunxiang couldn’t help but feel fondness toward him.

She opened the door wider to let him in, only to notice he wasn’t empty-handed. Both his hands were full of gifts, with additional items placed beside him on the ground. At a glance, she recognized expensive items like cordyceps, lingzhi mushrooms, American ginseng, and high-end skincare products.

Song Chunxiang was well aware of Yan Ming’s affluent background and generous nature, but this amount of gifts felt excessive.

“These are all for you, Auntie. Please accept my heartfelt offerings,” Yan Ming said calmly, as if it were perfectly natural.

Stunned, Song Chunxiang watched as Yan Ming carried the lavish gifts inside one by one. After a moment, she regained her composure and called out to Yu Tian, who was standing awkwardly nearby, to make tea for Yan Ming.

Yu Tian, still visibly uneasy, barely glanced at Yan Ming before retreating into the kitchen without so much as a greeting. Left alone in the living room, Song Chunxiang and Yan Ming began chatting intermittently while waiting for the water to boil.

Despite the casual conversation, Song Chunxiang’s mind remained troubled. The revelation that Yu Tian had secretly started dating an older boyfriend—and planned to introduce him to the family next week—left her deeply unsettled.

Perhaps it was Yan Ming’s dependable and composed demeanor that made her feel comfortable opening up. Seeing Yu Tian still occupied in the kitchen, Song Chunxiang decided not to hold back.

“Yan Ming, can I ask you something? Do you know... does Little Yu have a boyfriend now? Someone older?”

Yan Ming looked momentarily surprised but quickly masked his reaction. His relaxed expression turned tense as he repeated, “An older boyfriend? Did Yu Tian tell you this?”

Song Chunxiang nodded worriedly. “He’s quite a bit older—already graduated from medical school, and with a Ph.D., no less. He must’ve been old even when he graduated.”

“You’re also a graduate of their school, Auntie. I was wondering if you knew anything about Little Yu’s boyfriend. What kind of person is he?” Song Chunxiang’s anxiety grew palpable. “Little Yu is naive. I’m afraid she won’t stand a chance against someone so much older and smarter. You know how cunning some Ph.D.s can be. Surely, you’ve heard rumors within your circle about him?”

She realized her request might be unfair. Yan Ming was clearly dedicated to his work and probably indifferent to gossip. But desperate to protect Yu Tian, she saw no other option.

“I’m just worried, Yan Ming. This man seems suspicious. Rushing to meet parents so soon—it feels off. If he were truly an outstanding Ph.D. graduate like you, why would he be in such a hurry? It’s as though he’s afraid this opportunity will slip away. Something doesn’t add up...”

True to his character, Yan Ming listened attentively, his expression growing increasingly grave. Though doctors often faced life-and-death situations with detachment, Yan Ming seemed unusually empathetic, absorbing Song Chunxiang’s concerns deeply.

“Auntie, there’s something I need to say...”

But Song Chunxiang didn’t give him a chance to speak. Her suspicions about Yu Tian’s boyfriend continued to mount. “Let me finish first. I suspect this man either has flaws or isn’t particularly good-looking. Last time, Qi Sihao mentioned that among Ph.D.s in your school, at least four out of ten are bald. I’m really worried...”

“Mom!”

Yu Tian interrupted, carrying a tray of tea and pouting slightly. She set the cup down in front of Yan Ming and glared. “What are you talking about?”

Song Chunxiang didn’t mince words. “I’m talking about your boyfriend. Is he trustworthy? As the man, shouldn’t he have visited me first before rushing to meet the parents? Since he’s also a Ph.D. graduate from your school, he must be an alumnus. Yan Ming should know him. Today, with Yan Ming here, why don’t you tell us his name? I trust Yan Ming to give an impartial assessment of his character.”

Yu Tian stared, dumbfounded. Yan Ming fell silent.

Confused, Song Chunxiang looked between them. “What’s going on? Yan Ming, do you know something? Is this man unreliable?”

Finally, Yu Tian spoke, her expression a mix of embarrassment and disbelief. “Mom, have you considered that Yan Ming might not exactly qualify as an impartial third party in this situation?”

Before Song Chunxiang could process this, Yan Ming finally broke his silence.

“Auntie, it’s my fault. I’ve been meaning to visit formally, but work kept getting in the way. These gifts are a small token of my sincerity.”

Though he was indeed a Ph.D. graduate and several years ahead of Yu Tian, Yan Ming reassured her. “I skipped grades during school, so I’m not as old as you might think. And as you can see, my hair is still thick. There’s no need to worry about that.”

His tone was earnest. “As for rushing to meet you, yes, I admit I’m eager. Little Yu is exceptional, and since returning to school, she’s surrounded by potential rivals. While I may not be too young anymore, I’m certainly not ancient. I genuinely want to settle down and start a family—but only with her consent. Her career and ambitions come first. As for children, that’s entirely her choice.”

He paused, looking apologetic. “The reason we haven’t met sooner is because I haven’t officially introduced myself. Every time you visited, Yu Tian insisted I leave beforehand. Once, dinner was ready, but I had to leave before eating. It was raining that day, and she didn’t even offer me an umbrella. Let’s just say it left both physical and emotional scars...”

Hearing these details, Song Chunxiang finally pieced everything together. Yes, Yan Ming lived in an upscale neighborhood far from here. Their frequent encounters suddenly made sense.

Her gaze shifted to Yu Tian, whose face was flushed as she lightly nudged Yan Ming, pretending Song Chunxiang hadn’t noticed. The unmistakable signs of young love were everywhere.

Song Chunxiang began to question whether her injured eyesight had dulled her perception. How had she missed the obvious chemistry between Yu Tian and Yan Ming? Looking closely now, their gazes practically dripped with affection.

But...

While she would fiercely oppose any unknown man taking her daughter away, if it were Yan Ming...

Song Chunxiang couldn’t help but feel delighted.

Yan Ming continued apologizing profusely for not visiting sooner and promised to make up for it in the future. He praised Song Chunxiang’s cooking until she beamed with pride.

However, this pleasant exchange was cut short when Yan Ming received an urgent call. Excusing himself, he stepped outside to take it.

Left alone with Yu Tian, Song Chunxiang fixed her with a pointed glare. “You little troublemaker! Your boyfriend is Yan Ming, and you didn’t tell me sooner?! Why didn’t you introduce him properly? Look how miserable you’ve made him! It’s like you’re denying him recognition...”

Yu Tian was speechless. “Mom, who’s been lecturing me daily about focusing on my studies and avoiding relationships? I didn’t dare tell you! Only after securing the top grade in my year did I feel confident enough to mention it. I was terrified you’d accuse me of neglecting my goals.”

“Yan Ming isn’t just anyone! Dating him means learning from him—it’s a good thing! If you’d told me it was Yan Ming, I wouldn’t have criticized you.”

Song Chunxiang sighed. “And another thing—why did you kick him out every time I came over? That’s no way to treat a guest! From now on, make sure he’s well-fed before leaving, understood?”

Lowering her voice conspiratorially, she added, “Good job, by the way.”

“Huh?”

Winking mischievously, Song Chunxiang teased, “I’m not old-fashioned, you know. Sometimes, you have to seize the moment. Clearly, you’ve done that, and it’s working. A reserved guy like Yan Ming needs that push to solidify your relationship. I forgive you for moving things along so quickly. With someone like him, it’s understandable to act preemptively.”

Yu Tian wanted to protest: Mom, you’ve got it all wrong! It’s not me being proactive—it’s him! This guy may look aloof in his white coat, but underneath...

Fortunately, Song Chunxiang’s lecture was interrupted when Yan Ming returned from his call. His expression was apologetic. “Auntie, there’s been an emergency at the hospital—a car accident victim with severe eye injuries. I must go immediately.”

“Go, go!” Gone was any trace of hostility toward doctors. Song Chunxiang practically beamed. “Little Yu, see him off! Doctors sacrifice so much for their patients, always ready to respond at a moment’s notice!”

Five minutes later, Yu Tian accompanied Yan Ming to the parking lot.

“My mom privately told me to ensure you eat properly next time,” Yu Tian muttered, unable to suppress her irritation. “Who’s the shameless one claiming they didn’t get fed? When have we ever denied you food?”

Yan Ming chuckled softly. “When I say ‘eat,’ I don’t mean just food. You know what I mean. Remember those times when dinner was ready, everything prepared—even the utensils bought—but then you kicked me out because your mom was coming?”

“...You have the nerve to bring that up!”

“But now Auntie has spoken. Next time, I’ll make sure I’m fully satisfied before leaving.” Smiling, he pinned Yu Tian gently against the car door and gave her a brief, breathless kiss. “Alright, go back inside. It’s cold out here. I’ll head to the hospital to save a patient. Remember to welcome me properly when I return.”