From Modern Struggles to Timeless Love: A Pharmacist's Tale

Chapter 11: A Gentle Touch

Zhang Wei quietly entered the bedroom, his footsteps light as he approached Li Mei's bedside. He gazed at her sleeping form, the soft rise and fall of her breath comforting yet worrying him.

Gently, he reached out and brushed a strand of hair away from Li Mei's forehead, his fingers lingering on her warm skin. He could feel the heat radiating from her feverish body, and concern etched itself on his face.

As he looked at Li Mei, he couldn't help but notice how her illness seemed to make her even more delicate and beautiful. Her features, though tired and pale, held a serene elegance that captivated him.

But alongside his concern for her well-being, a pang of jealousy pierced his heart whenever he saw the way Cheng Yong looked at her with admiration. It was irrational, he knew, as Cheng Yong was a good friend and meant no harm. Yet, a part of him couldn't help but feel possessive of Li Mei, wanting to keep her all to himself.

Just as Zhang Wei was lost in his thoughts, Li Mei stirred, her eyes fluttering open. Her gaze met Zhang Wei's, and a faint smile tugged at the corners of her lips.

"Zhang Wei," she murmured, her voice soft and weak. "I'm awake."

Zhang Wei's face lit up with relief and affection. "Li Mei, you're finally awake. How are you feeling?"

Li Mei sighed, her voice filled with exhaustion. "I still feel weak, but I'm feeling much better now."

Zhang Wei leaned in closer, his voice tender. "I'll take care of you, Li Mei. Just rest and let me handle everything."

Li Mei blushed and nodded gratefully, her eyes avoiding Zhang Wei's. "Thank you."

Zhang Wei gently squeezed her hand before standing up. "I'll bring you some food and your medicine. It's important to keep your strength up."

Li Mei sat on the edge of her bed, her heart filled with gratitude for the caring and devoted husband she had in Zhang Wei. It had only been a few weeks since she had transmigrated into this world, and yet, Zhang Wei had been a constant source of support and love.

But despite their growing closeness, Li Mei couldn't help but feel a hint of shyness. They were still in the early stages of their relationship, and there were moments when she wondered if she truly deserved the love and attention Zhang Wei showered upon her.

Li Mei also thought of her career in this world. As a pharmacist in her previous life, Li Mei longed to continue her studies and become a licensed pharmacist in this world as well. She wanted to make a difference, to use her knowledge and skills to help others. No! What she wanted to do was make money in this world so her family now doesn't have to live in poverty anymore.

Money is essential after all.

Zhang Wei returned to the bedroom, carrying a bowl of warm congee and a plate of steamed buns. He smiled at Li Mei, who was sitting up in bed, looking much better than before.

"Here, I brought you some food," he said, sitting down next to her.

Li Mei's face flushed as she looked down at the food. "Thank you. But I can feed myself."

Zhang Wei chuckled. "I know you can, but let me take care of you."

Li Mei shook her head, her hands fidgeting with the blankets. "It's okay, really. I don't want to trouble you."

Zhang Wei persisted, reaching for a spoon. "It's not trouble at all. Let me feed you."

Li Mei hesitated for a moment, then relented. "Okay, but just a little bit."

Zhang Wei scooped up a spoonful of congee and held it out to Li Mei, who obediently opened her mouth. As Zhang Wei fed her, Li Mei couldn't help but feel a warmth in her chest. It was comforting to have someone care for her so much.

But at the same time, Li Mei felt a sense of shyness. She had only been married to Zhang Wei for a few weeks and was still getting used to their relationship. She felt embarrassed to be fed like a child in front of him.

After a few spoonfuls, Li Mei blushed and pushed the spoon away. "I'll finish the rest myself, thank you."

Zhang Wei nodded, a smile still on his face. "Of course. Whatever makes you feel comfortable."

Just as she was lost in thought, the door burst open and the twins came laughing and chattering away. Zhang Wei and Li Mei both smiled at the sight of them, their worries momentarily forgotten.

Zhang Wei smiled at Li Mei's shyness and handed her the bowl of rice. "Alright, I'll leave it to you then. But if you need any help, just let me know."

Li Mei nodded and took a small spoonful of rice, blowing on it gently before putting it into her mouth. As she ate, she felt a sense of comfort wash over her.

After a few bites, Li Mei's gaze flickered up to meet Zhang Wei's. "Zhang Wei, there's something I want to talk to you about."

Zhang Wei put down the towel and turned his full attention to Li Mei. "Call me husband. Ahem."

Li Mei sat up in bed, feeling slightly better now that she had eaten and taken her medicine. She looked at Zhang Wei, who was sitting by her side.

"Zhang Wei, I've been thinking," Li Mei began, her voice serious.

"What's on your mind?" Zhang Wei asked, looking at her with concern.

"I want to take the college entrance exam," Li Mei said resolutely.

Zhang Wei's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "The college entrance exam? But why?"

"I want to become a pharmacist," Li Mei said, a hint of determination in her voice. "I know I can do it, and I want to contribute to our family's income."

Zhang Wei looked at her with admiration. "I'm proud of you, Li Mei. But the exam is really difficult, especially during these times. Are you sure you want to take it?"

Li Mei nodded, her expression firm. "I'm sure. And I want you to take it with me, Zhang Wei. We can study together and help each other out."

Zhang Wei shook his head with a small laugh. "I don't think I'll pass if I take it. Besides, who will take care of you and the kids? If you want to take the college entrance exam, I'll definitely support you in anyway I can."

Li Mei beamed at him. "Thank you, Zhang Wei. I promise I'll make you proud."

As Zhang Wei got up to leave the room, Li Mei called out to him.

"Zhang Wei?" she said with a mischievous glint in her eye. "If you change your mind and decide to take the exam with me, I'll even let you be my study partner."

Zhang Wei laughed, shaking his head. "Nice try, but I'll stick to taking care of the kids."