The auspicious dragon heralds the end of the old year, while the jade rabbit welcomes the new spring. In this joyful moment of family reunion, with lanterns and decorations brightening the atmosphere, Xiao Yuzhe An happily embarks on a journey back to Shanghai with his beloved child, Lu Yichen.
Along the way, Lu Yichen chirped like a cheerful little bird, chattering non-stop: "Daddy, will we see Grandpa and Grandma, and Grandpa and Grandma from Mom's side in Shanghai? Will they remember me?" Xiao Yuzhe An smiled as he ruffled his son's hair: "Silly boy, how could they forget you? They talk about you every day."
As they reached the front door, laughter and chatter filled the house. The door creaked open, and Lin Dongzhe and Xiao Ting came out to greet them with Lin Xin Yi. Lu Yichen couldn't wait to break free from his father's hand and dashed toward Lin Xin Yi: "Sister Lin Xin Yi, I've missed you so much!" Lin Xin Yi joyfully grabbed Lu Yichen's hand: "Brother Lu Yichen, I've missed you too! Come inside; everyone is waiting for you."
Song Ying hurried over with a loving smile, wrapping her arms around Lu Yichen and showering him with kisses: "My precious grandson, I've finally been waiting for you! Were you tired on the way?" Lu Yichen sweetly replied: "Not at all, Grandma! I even brought gifts for you!"
Lin Wufeng emerged from the kitchen, flour dusting his hands and a broad smile on his face: "We were just waiting for you to come home for the reunion dinner. I made your favorite sweet and sour ribs."
At that moment, Huang Ling and Teacher Zhuang also approached. Huang Ling took Xiao Yuzhe An's hand with concern in her eyes: "Child, after a year apart, you look even more spirited!" Teacher Zhuang nodded with a smile beside her: "Yes, seeing everyone doing well puts us at ease."
The family gathered around a table filled with delicious dishes, steam rising and aromas wafting through the air. Lin Wufeng raised his glass, looking at the children with hopeful eyes: "In this new year, our family can gather together joyfully; that is our greatest blessing. May this new year surpass the last, bringing peace and happiness to everyone. May the children’s careers flourish and their studies succeed, while our elders remain healthy and strong. May our home always be surrounded by love and laughter." With that, he tilted his head back and drank it all in one go.
Song Ying smiled as she added: "Indeed! This past year had its storms and rainbows, but as long as our family stays close together, there’s no obstacle we can’t overcome. Moving forward, we hope for smooth paths for the children and robust growth for our grandchildren. We old folks will continue to contribute to the family; seeing everyone happy is our greatest hope."
At the table, Lin Dongzhe spoke about a new project at work: "Our company recently took on a big project. Although it won’t be easy, with my parents' guidance behind me, I’m confident I can do well." Xiao Yuzhe An chimed in: "I feel the same way; such opportunities are rare and must be seized. Plus, having family by my side gives me confidence; no challenge feels too daunting."
After finishing their meals, the children ran off to play. Lu Yichen raced around with a toy car while Lin Xin Yi chased after him: "Wait for me, brother! Let me play too!"
Outside, colorful fireworks burst into bloom in the night sky, dazzling all who watched. Inside, laughter intertwined with joyful chatter filled the air.
In this warm moment of reunion, each heart brimmed with hopes and expectations for what was to come. Time may pass quietly and appearances may change gradually, but this deep bond of kinship will forever shine brightly like those brilliant stars that illuminate their paths ahead. They understood that no matter what storms they might face on their journey ahead, as long as they stood together as a family—united and unwavering—they would surely overcome any difficulties and welcome countless happy new years. This is life in its truest and most beautiful form—a story of this big family that remains eternally happy and warm through every passing year. In days to come, they will continue to write their ordinary yet precious story filled with love and care, making their home an everlasting refuge of happiness for everyone—a bond that flows endlessly through time, growing ever richer and deeper.
(THE END)
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