Chapter 255: The Phoenix Man Who Soared Before the Apocalypse (61)

His eyes shimmered with tears, but he quickly wiped them away. “Why am I talking about this on such a good day? I’m really getting old, getting all sentimental. You’d better get going. If you’re late to the bakery on the next street, you’ll probably have to wait in line.”

Old Wang glanced at the time. “Ah, you’re right. I’d better hurry.”

Waving his hand, he rushed off toward the bakery.

It was a newly opened internet-famous bakery. Word had it that the pastry chef used to work at a five-star hotel, and ever since it opened, the place had been packed.

Honestly, back in the day, he never would’ve imagined eating a five-star hotel dessert for the price of an ordinary cake.

When he arrived, sure enough, there was already a long line outside.

Old Wang quickly joined the queue. Just then, he overheard the people in front of him chatting and laughing.

“Mingyang Base really is amazing. It was worth all the trouble me and my buddies went through to get here. Before, I couldn’t even dream of eating bread like this.”

“Exactly. All the facilities here are just like before the Apocalypse. And don’t even get me started on the unique currency system. Unlike other bases where everything has to be traded for Core Crystals, we regular folks can’t just go out and kill zombies that easily.”

“You’re right. Using Core Crystals always felt unfair. Now with the point system, everything’s clear and straightforward. This base is like a dream come true. I’m never leaving.”

Hearing this, Old Wang couldn’t help but smile. These young people sure were amusing.

But his thoughts drifted off.

Five years ago, he had made the boldest decision of his life—coming to this unknown base. And it turned out to be the best decision he ever made.

Back then, the base was severely understaffed. As soon as they arrived, they were thrown into various research and development projects.

Shen Xiuyan was a decent man and offered generous pay. With just his own income, Old Wang could support his entire family.

Not to mention, his son had returned to his old profession at the base, continuing to teach and educate.

His granddaughter was growing up healthy and happy, just like any normal child.

Thinking of this, he couldn’t help but laugh out loud.

Time ticked by, and it was almost Old Wang’s turn.

Just then, a commotion rippled through the crowd, followed by a wave of hushed whispers.

Old Wang looked toward the source of the disturbance. No wonder everyone was so excited.

A car had pulled up by the street, and out stepped a family of three. The man among them was none other than—Shen Xiuyan.

He was admired by many, practically a savior in everyone’s eyes and the most powerful protector of the base.

Shen Yiyang bounced excitedly as he said, “Daddy, Daddy, it’s this store! Mommy brought me here last time and the cake was sooo good!”

At five years old, he was already speaking fluently, proudly showing off his treasure trove to his dad.

Worried he might trip in the crowd, Shen Xiuyan swiftly scooped him up into his arms.

“Is that so? Then let’s buy more this time so you can eat to your heart’s content.”

Shen Yiyang’s chubby little face lit up with a dazzling smile. “I knew Daddy was the best!”

Su Mingyue, walking a step behind, shook her head helplessly. “You’re spoiling him again. Watch him skip dinner tonight!”

“Hehe.” Father and son gave her identical goofy grins.

“You two better cut it out.” Su Mingyue reached out with a slender finger and tapped each of their foreheads.

The big one and the little one immediately put on their best obedient faces, like a perfectly timed photo.

Everyone watching couldn’t help but laugh.

They looked on with envy at the warm scene. That must be Shen Xiuyan’s wife. No wonder the “Loving Husband Shen” image never faltered. Only Su Mingyue could turn a hardened warrior into a soft-hearted man.

And let’s not forget their son, a mini version of Shen Xiuyan, sweet enough to give you a toothache.

If you asked who the most envied woman in the base was, it would undoubtedly be Su Mingyue.

Rumor had it she was a pampered heiress before the Apocalypse, and afterward she had a husband who doted on her like no other. She hadn’t suffered a single hardship.

She was the very picture of a woman who had won at life.

Old Wang saw them walking toward the line and immediately waved. “Young Master Shen, here for some bread?”

“Yeah, my little one’s been craving it.” Shen Xiuyan looked up and recognized an old acquaintance. He patted Shen Yiyang’s little butt. “Say hi to Grandpa.”

Shen Yiyang wasn’t shy at all. Clinging to his father’s neck, he chirped sweetly, “Hello, Grandpa!”

“Good, good. Yiyang is so adorable. He’s about to start school, right?”

“Yeah, soon. He’s going to your son’s school. Make sure he keeps an eye on Yiyang for me.” Ever since his son was born, Shen Xiuyan had never stopped worrying.

“Of course!” Old Wang thumped his chest. “I’ll tell my boy as soon as I get home.”

The bakery owner, having heard the commotion outside, rushed out in excitement.

“Young Master Shen, what an honor! Please, come in!”

Shen Xiuyan turned to Old Wang. “I’ll head in first, then.”

“Take care.”

It was the most justified case of cutting in line anyone had ever seen. No one said a word against it. In fact, everyone thought it was only right.

After all, the man built this dream-like base. What’s a little privilege? Totally fair.

Once they went inside, everyone’s envious gaze shifted to Old Wang. Who would’ve thought he knew Shen Xiuyan? Truly, you can’t judge a book by its cover.

Feeling the weight of all those admiring stares, Old Wang straightened his back with pride.

Back at home, Shen Xiuyan brought in a pile of pastries. “Mom, Dad, we just bought these. Try some.”

“Ah, great.” Mother Su saw Shen Yiyang eyeing the treats and smiled. “Yiyang, come here. Tell Grandma which one you want.”

Shen Yiyang ran over with a bright smile. “Thank you, Grandma!”

The two of them happily munched on bread together.

Father Su watched with delight. His eldest grandson was just too cute—he couldn’t get enough of him.

Suddenly, he remembered something. “Oh right, dear, split some of the bread and send it over to Xiuyan’s parents.”

Shen Xiuyan waved it off. “No need. Mingyue already went. She should be back soon.”

Father Su nodded in satisfaction. “Good, good. Thankfully, my daughter is always so thoughtful.”

Shen Xiuyan said proudly, “Of course. She is my wife, after all.”

Father Su: “…”

Excuse me, Su Mingyue’s surname is Su. She was my daughter first before she became your wife.

Who exactly are you showing off to?

Shouldn’t I be the one feeling proud?

Seriously, this guy’s got a bad case of love-brain.

This son-in-law of his was great in every way—except when it came to his daughter. Then he completely lost perspective. Oh wait, now he had to add Yiyang to that list too.

Still, the wide grin tugging at the corners of his mouth didn’t match his internal complaints at all. He looked thoroughly pleased with his son-in-law.