Press "PandaGuides" above to follow us!
A love story from Chengdu has captured attention across the internet as a 67-year-old baozi shop owner, Hu Rong, and her 44-year-old boyfriend, Amu, prepare to get married after a three-year relationship. Despite a 23-year age difference, the couple has decided to pursue marriage, defying conventional views on age and relationships.
Hu Rong, who has two daughters from previous marriages, met Amu, a native of Fujian, online. At first, Hu was hesitant, believing the age gap was too wide for a romantic relationship. However, Amu’s patience and kindness eventually won her over. To be closer to Hu, Amu moved from Fujian to Chengdu, where he now helps Hu in her baozi shop. Despite occasionally being mistaken for her son by customers, Amu remains devoted, supporting Hu both emotionally and practically.
Hu’s life has been shaped by significant challenges. Her first husband passed away after just four years of marriage, leaving her with a daughter, and her second marriage ended in divorce in 2013. Amu, too, has a past marked by hardships, including a previous marriage that ended in separation. These shared experiences seem to have brought the couple closer, creating a strong bond.
The couple’s relationship has sparked varied reactions. Hu’s daughters are supportive yet concerned, especially her eldest, who worries about what might happen if her mother eventually needs more care. Hu, however, has taken a pragmatic view, stating, “Even married couples can end up separating. As long as I am happy now, that’s enough.” Some friends are supportive, while others are skeptical, yet Hu is determined to follow her heart.
Netizens have shared diverse opinions on the relationship, with some praising Hu’s resilience and confidence. “It’s inspiring to see Hu following her heart,” one commenter wrote. Another compared Hu to a “strong woman” archetype, adding that even independent women need companionship. Others cited examples like French President Emmanuel Macron, who married a woman 24 years his senior, noting that age gaps in relationships aren’t unique to China.
Amu’s family has yet to meet Hu in person, though he reassures her that he is committed to staying with her, regardless of any familial objections. He expresses a desire to marry her formally, saying that a marriage certificate would provide a greater sense of belonging. Hu, while somewhat cautious, is optimistic about moving forward and has agreed to meet Amu’s family to discuss their plans.
For now, the couple is focused on building a future together. Amu is learning to manage the baozi shop, eager to share Hu’s workload. Although Amu has expressed an interest in having children, he is content with just being by Hu’s side. “I promised to grow old with you,” he told her, “and I intend to keep that promise.”
