Done. That is absolutely no problem." Qi Jizong smiled broadly. "I told you, your brother’s talent is perfect for the Cultural Center. You just wouldn’t agree before. Now you finally see it."
Xie Zhong waved his hand and chuckled softly. "My thoughts have changed. It is good that I have opened my mind. Besides, working at the Cultural Center will make it easier for the children to study later. I even plan to send Ani to the Children’s Art Competition there."
Hearing this, Zhu Yanyi’s eyes lit up. It was just an art contest, but it meant getting her name known to important people. In her past life, she had participated too and won a third prize. Back then, someone had suggested she study art professionally, but her family was poor, and Xie Zhong had already passed away, so they didn’t push it. She had misunderstood then, thinking art had no future. Later, she realized that good art was a promising career. But she grew old and lost the chance. No wonder people said, "If you don’t work hard when young, you will regret it when old."
This life was different. Hearing Xie Zhong mention the contest felt special.
Seeing Zhu Yanyi’s bright eyes, Xie Zhong said calmly, "I will help you get a spot. But you must design the work yourself. I will not give you any hints."
"Okay," Zhu Yanyi nodded. "Grandpa, don’t worry. I know what to draw."
If painting was just painting, one would become a mere art addict. Zhu Yanyi would never be that. Although she was simple, living two lives meant she understood the deeper meaning of art. Xie Zhong wanted her to choose her own path. If she became an art addict, she would accept it as art. But if she understood the meaning, it would help her in life.
Zhu Yanyi understood, so she had already decided what to draw.
Xie Zhong nodded, then turned to Zhu Yanli. "You must prepare too. There is a Children’s Music Competition this summer. You should try it."
"Okay, Grandpa." Zhu Yanli paused for a moment, then nodded. She felt nervous, but her eyes shone with excitement. She clearly wanted to join.
Zhu Shun Yao looked surprised from the side. "Why is An’ni joining a music contest?"
Zhu Yanyi remembered she hadn’t told Zhu Shun Yao about Zhu Yanli’s change of plans. She smiled at her. "I know about this. Sister doesn’t want to be a teacher. She wants to be a professional musician."
"Oh," Zhu Shun Yao nodded. "Will it be tiring?"
Zhu Yanyi tilted her head and thought. "It shouldn’t be too tiring. At least not as tiring as me. But Dad reminded me, Sister, you must start morning exercises every day. No matter what job you do, you must keep your body healthy."
"Morning exercises?" Zhu Yanli looked listless. "I hate sports the most."
"It’s okay. You will get used to it," Zhu Yanyi comforted her without much sincerity.
"Fine." Zhu Yanli knew she couldn’t escape. She would have to accept it.
Zhu Yanyi looked at Zhu Shun Yao again. "Dad, are you not angry?