Pursuing knowledge and scientific discovery has transcended borders, with collaborative efforts leading to groundbreaking advancements in food sustainability, environmental protection, and renewable energy sources. Nutrient solutions have been widely circulated, which were believed to possess all the nutrients the body needs. As Hu Yufeng navigated through this advanced society, she marveled at the wonders of the interstellar era.
Immersed in a world where technology, culture, and human connections seamlessly intertwined, she pondered the role she would play in shaping the future. With her scientific expertise and determination, she aspired to contribute to the betterment of interstellar society, striving to create a world where harmony, progress, and compassion prevailed.
"Food for all!"
Hu Yufeng's life in the luxurious mansion continued with a tranquil rhythm. The admiral's absence due to his military responsibilities left her undisturbed, allowing her to relish in the sense of freedom and peace.
The devoted robotic servants attended to her every need, ensuring her comfort and well-being. With no beasts lurking in the mountains surrounding her, she reveled in the serenity of her surroundings. It was as if she had become the queen of her own domain, unencumbered by the villain's and his father's presence.
In this idyllic setting, Hu Yufeng found herself embracing a newfound relaxation. She slept in until late morning, indulging in the luxury of rest and tranquility. As the days passed, she grew accustomed to this solitary existence and began viewing the mansion as her own sanctuary.
However, the phone call she received one day abruptly shattered the illusion of her newfound serenity. It served as a stark reminder of her role as a stepmother and the challenges that came with it. The voice on the other end of the line belonged to the male secretary of the villain's father, his tone professional and detached.
"Madam, there is something you need to deal with," the secretary informed her. "I received a call from the school this morning. They requested the presence of parents. As you know, Admiral Feng is still away, attending to the border situation, and won't be able to return today."
The reality of being a stepmother came crashing back to Hu Yufeng. The significance of her stepson's remarkable character, and his reluctance to acknowledge her, became apparent once again. She couldn't help but blurt out, "Is it indispensable for me to go?"
The secretary paused momentarily, his surprise evident in his response. Being a stepmother was widely known to be challenging, and being a wealthy stepmother added another layer of complexity, especially with the status of the admiral's wife.
In Hu Yufeng's position, she had been married for quite some time, and under such circumstances, one might expect her to seize the opportunity to assert her presence and demonstrate to Admiral Feng that she would treat his son as her own. However, Hu Yufeng found herself devoid of any interest in involving herself in her stepson's affairs.
As the silence lingered on the other end of the line, Hu Yufeng contemplated her own indifference toward managing her stepson's life. She acknowledged the societal expectations placed upon a stepmother, especially one of her status. Yet, her lack of enthusiasm for assuming a maternal role remained unchanged. She yearned for a life free from such responsibilities, desiring to focus on her own pursuits and personal fulfillment.
While Hu Yufeng's apathy towards her stepson's affairs might be seen as unconventional or even neglectful, she couldn't deny the authenticity of her feelings. She had never desired to be a mother figure, and her disinterest in assuming that role persisted, despite the pressures and expectations placed upon her.
Hu Yufeng took a deep breath, steeling herself for the task ahead. The secretary's plea had sparked a flicker of compassion within her, reminding her of the responsibilities of being a stepmother. Although she still felt a sense of reluctance, she couldn't deny the fact that the young stepson had endured his fair share of hardships and deserved her attention and support.
With a determined mindset, Hu Yufeng began making the necessary preparations for her visit to the military academy. This would be her first time attending as a parent, and despite her initial reservations, a part of her was curious to experience this new role. She realized that her hesitation stemmed more from her own lack of readiness to be a stepmother than any ill feelings towards the villain himself. After all, in the novel, the stepmother and the villain maintain a harmonious relationship, rarely crossing paths or conflicting with each other.
As she sorted through her wardrobe, Hu Yufeng contemplated the significant age difference between herself and her stepson. At forty-five years old, she was only twenty-five years older than him, an unconventional dynamic for a traditional family structure. Nevertheless, she refused to let this deter her from fulfilling her duties as a stepmother. She acknowledged that age didn't necessarily define one's ability to nurture and care for another person.
Once she had selected an appropriate outfit, Hu Yufeng headed towards the military academy, armed with a mix of anticipation and apprehension. The drive was serene, with the lush artificial scenery passing by in a blur. As she approached the campus, she marveled at the impressive architecture and the disciplined cadets marching in perfect unison. It starkly contrasted her experiences as a scientist, but she was determined to adapt to this new environment.
Upon her arrival, Hu Yufeng was greeted by the school staff, who led her to the designated meeting room. The room was adorned with military insignia, reflecting the academy's commitment to discipline and excellence. As she waited for her stepson, she observed the cadets passing by in their crisp uniforms, their dedication to their studies and training evident in their disciplined demeanor.
When the young master finally entered the room, Hu Yufeng couldn't help but notice the resemblance between him and a comic character. His striking features and commanding presence were undeniable, and for a moment, she felt a pang of admiration for the young man he had become.
Despite their lack of interaction thus far, she sensed a strong power within him, a reflection of the challenges he had faced as the admiral's son. As they exchanged pleasantries, Hu Yufeng discovered that her stepson possessed a keen intellect and a maturity that surpassed his peers.