《Reborn As Lucky Star》


 Chapter 1 - 1 Unlucky Loss-making Goods

    Chapter 1: Chapter 1 Unlucky Loss-making Goods


    Yue Qingqing was awakened by a racket.


    "Rouhui, since you''ve had a daughter, the Li Family hasn''t even bothered to look in on us once. Don''t you understand? We can''t keep this child."


    "Wuu wuu, Mom, what should I do now? Why am I so unfortunate to give birth to something that loses us money?"


    "Mom won''t harm you. Now we can only have one child, and if you can''t give birth to a boy, some other woman will benefit. Anyway, the Li Family will definitely want a boy."


    Losing money? Can only have one child?


    Such bewildering words flooded her ears, and Yue Qingqing tried to ask, but she could only let out a faint whimper.


    "What are you crying for, you money loser!" the middle-aged woman spat harshly.


    Finally, Qingqing realized that she, struck dead by a thunderbolt, had somehow become an infant unable to speak.


    She opened her eyes to see this peculiar world but found her vision completely blurred.


    She had heard that newborns take some time to see clearly, which she hadn''t expected to be true.


    Her master said that babies carried innate Qi within them, and cultivating with it could yield faster progress.


    Yue Qingqing closed her eyes to try and attract more spiritual energy into her body, but she noticed the spiritual energy in this world was so thin it was almost non-existent.


    She sighed in her heart, only to make a concerted effort to use the innate Qi she was born with to open her meridians.


    "I''ve already found out. That woman sitting on the chair outside can''t have children. If you give them the child, they will surely take her back home."


    The young woman hesitated, "But they look like they''re from the countryside; their clothes even have patches. If we send the child there..."


    Her mother-in-law had scrimped and saved half a year''s worth of money to take her to the hospital for a checkup, which revealed that she was infertile; Zhang Ying even considered throwing herself into a river.


    What sins did she commit in her past life to deserve such a bitter fate?


    "Wah!" The sound of a baby''s crying suddenly filled her ears, and Zhang Ying jolted upright, doubting her hearing.


    Looking around, she saw a small bundle beneath her chair.


    "Is this... a child?"


    Zhang Ying incredulously looked at the infant still in swaddling clothes, suspecting this to be some cruel joke by the heavens.


    When Yue Jiandong arrived with a steaming cup of water, he found Zhang Ying stiffly holding a bundle, motionless.


    "Where did this child come from? Ying, we can''t be doing something wicked!" Yue Jiandong feared that his wife, distressed, might commit an irreversible act.


    "No, it''s unwanted by others, it''s a girl." Zhang Ying pointed for him to see; in the swaddling clothes was also a note, and while she couldn''t recognize the words above, she did know the numbers below, which were the child''s birthdate.


    Yue Jiandong had learned some reading from his employer. He read the note, which clearly said the child was given to those with fate, truly a foundling.


    "Jiandong, let''s raise this child. It''s the heavens feeling sorry for me, sending her to me." Zhang Ying looked up at her husband with hopeful eyes.


    Yue Jiandong''s face stiffened. As the eldest son, he knew all too well his family''s situation: the money for today''s hospital visit had taken his mother a long time to scrape together, and they had no means to care for another child.


    Especially a girl.


    But meeting Zhang Ying''s tear-filled eyes, he could only clench his teeth and utter a firm "Mhm."


    It seemed this child was not fortunate enough to enter a well-off family, and would have to endure a life of hardship with them.

 Chapter 2 - 2 Leave the Child Behind

    Chapter 2: Chapter 2 Leave the Child Behind


    "Well, if it isn''t Jiandong, what are you and your wife carrying so tightly wrapped?"


    "Picked up a child? A girl? Sigh, what''s the use of bringing home a foundling girl."


    Yue Jiandong and Zhang Ying made their way back to the village, encountering many fellow villagers.


    Everyone was curious about how the couple went to the city for a doctor''s visit and ended up picking up a child.


    Once they heard it was a girl, expressions quickly shifted from surprise to a mix of sympathy and scorn.


    In those days, girls were worthless, especially after the country only allowed one child per family; the river behind the village often drifted with the bodies of female infants.


    Some people even suffocated female infants and buried them in the ground to be trampled upon, to deter future girls from being born into their family.


    The Yue Family was already one of the poorest in Daye Village; Yue Jiandong must have lost his mind to bring home such a money-losing burden.


    Daye Village wasn''t large, and news spread throughout the village quickly.


    Laughter and ridicule were incessant.


    As the couple neared their home, Lin Chunju, having already received the news, was waiting at the doorway.@@@@


    Catching sight of her mother-in-law from a distance, Zhang Ying''s grip on the child tightened, wishing she could shrink into a ball.


    Zhou Ergou''s wife next door mocked purposely, "Look, Jiandong''s wife, what treasure are you cradling? Let us have a look."


    Lin Chunju shot her a fierce glance and briskly retorted, "Mind your own business, and stay inside your house."


    After listening to Zhang Ying''s words, Lin Chunju''s face darkened, "All you know is that this child was abandoned by others? What if they turn the tables and accuse you of stealing the child?"


    Yue Jiandong hastily explained, "We waited a long time at the hospital and asked the nurses. They all said there were no mothers who lost their children, so we brought the child home."


    "Can''t you see the situation at home? Your brother''s wife just had a baby, and things are already tight. Now you bring another mouth to feed; I think you find it too luxurious here!"


    The couple bowed their heads and took the scolding, not daring to utter a word.


    Yue Qingqing in the swaddling clothes sensed trouble and began to cry, having already experienced the male preference of this world on the journey, fearing another abandonment.


    Because she had not been properly fed since birth, her cries were feeble, like a kitten gasping for air.


    Lin Chunju frowned and peered into the wrap; the child within had lost her newborn redness, looking white and tender.


    Her barely open eyes were like black grapes with drops of water hanging from them, her rosy little mouth slightly open, quivering.


    Zhang Ying implored her mother-in-law, "Mother, this child is so well-behaved. On our way here, she never cried or fussed; even when she wanted to urinate, she would hum quietly. Please, let''s keep her."


    Lin Chunju''s expression remained stern and unspoken.


    Seeing her mother-in-law''s expressionless face, Zhang Ying dropped a bombshell, "Mother, the doctor said I can''t have children. Please, I''m begging you, let me raise her."


    Yue Jiandong was startled, "Yingzi! What are you talking about?"


    He quickly knelt down, "Mother, it''s me, I''m the one who can''t have children, not Yingzi."


    Zhang Ying also immediately knelt beside him, clutching the child tightly.


    "Mother, please let''s keep this child."

 Chapter 3 - 3 The Inversion Is Fortunate

    Chapter 3: Chapter 3 The Inversion Is Fortunate


    Lin Chunju rolled her eyes, "Alright, no one said about leaving anyone behind, all of you get up."


    The two exchanged glances, then finally let out a sigh of relief and stood up.


    Zhang Ying brought the baby over to Lin Chunju in an attempt to curry favor, "Ma, could you give the child a name?"


    Accepting the baby with a disgruntled air, Yue Qingqing still couldn''t see clearly and sniffed like a puppy.


    Um... A nice person.


    Now she felt at ease, knowing she wouldn''t be thrown out again.


    "The weather is nice today, so let''s call her Qingqing."


    Yue Qingqing clapped her hands excitedly, that name was good, exactly the same as what her master named her in her previous life.


    Yue Jiandong remarked with wonder, "Ma, look, she seems to be smiling. She must like the name you chose."


    Seeing her simple and endearing appearance, Lin Chunju couldn''t help but soften her heart.


    "Let your younger brother and sister-in-law nurse the child for now. Now that you have a child, you must take on the responsibilities of being parents."


    The couple nodded violently, and Lin Chunju carried Yue Qingqing into the second room.


    Wang Xiaoni had been all ears and heard everything clearly, hurrying to take the baby when her mother-in-law came in.


    "Ma, hand her to me."


    When Yue Qingqing was placed into Wang Xiaoni''s arms, she smelled food and began to suckle desperately.


    Wang Xiaoni, watching her frantic and hungry state, felt a surge of pity.


    "Xiaoni, take care of the child too, and I''ll add an extra egg for you every day."


    "Ma, how could I, I''ve already been nursing along."


    Lin Chunju decisively said, "Enough, it''s settled then."


    "It''s really fortunate. Just enough for one per room, and the extra one is for Xiaoni to nourish her, as she is nursing two babies."


    Wang Xiaoni repeatedly waved her hands, "Ma, you have the extra one."


    Without leaving any room for dispute, Lin Chunju distributed the peaches and was about to put away the one for her youngest son when the door was pushed open.


    Jiannan, only sixteen years old, with his voice preceding him, called out.


    "Ma, look what good thing I''ve brought from the mountain."


    Lin Chunju snapped at him right away.


    "I''ve told you the mountain is not safe, and yet you go rolling up there again?"


    Yue Jiannan, one hand on his head and the other hidden behind his back, kept wincing and uttering "ouch."


    "Ma, go easy, I''ve got a rabbit here."


    Everyone saw that Yue Jiannan was indeed holding a half-dead rabbit in his hand, plump and round, making mouths water just by looking at it.


    "This rabbit was found under my tree; it must have run into something. Ma, the saying ''waiting under a tree for rabbits'' turns out to be true."


    Lin Chunju glared at him, "Shut up, wash your hands and eat. Go to the mountain less in the future, or if I catch you again, I''ll skin you alive one layer at a time."


    After much hubbub, the family finally sat down together at the table for their meal.


    Yue Qingqing, held in Zhang Ying''s arms, stared intently at the rabbit.


    She could finally see things a little clearer; the rabbit looked so white and cute and must taste very nice.


    All the people around the table were amused by her longing expression.


    Yue Jiannan said in wonder, "Is this child really just born? She seems so smart."


    With two pieces of good news in the family, Lin Chunju''s mood also improved, and she found Yue Qingqing''s expression quite extraordinary.


    This child seemed to be a lucky one.

 Chapter 4: Black Mist

    Chapter 4: Chapter 4: Black Mist


    The next morning, Yue Qingqing was awakened by a delightful fragrance.


    Lin Chunju opened the pickling jar and scooped out the now well-pickled wild vegetables.


    She blanched them quickly in boiling water, then added minced garlic, chopped green onions, celery, and daylilies.


    After adding a few drops of oil, she stir-fried the bean sauce thoroughly, sprinkling a little rice vinegar before pouring it all onto the wild vegetables.


    With a sizzle, the oil released all the fragrant aromas of the vegetables.


    An indescribable scent of sour and spicy filled the entire house.


    Last night, after the adults had fallen asleep, Qingqing had practiced for a while, enhancing her senses far beyond those of an average baby.


    When Zhang Ying carried her to the table, she saw several men of the Yue Family devouring the mixed wild vegetables and slurping their porridge.


    The freshly stuck cornbread was golden yellow, its edges slightly crispy.


    Yue Qingqing''s saliva flowed uncontrollably.


    Zhang Ying could only, with a blushing face, take her to Wang Xiaoni''s room.


    "Sister-in-law, I''m sorry to trouble you again today," she said.


    Wang Xiaoni grinned, "What are you talking about, sister-in-law? Your child is just like my own daughter to me!"


    Yue Qingqing could only sadly drink her milk, praying that she would grow up quickly.


    After the household''s labor force had gone to work, Lin Chunju also came to Wang Xiaoni''s room.


    "Mother, I was just going to our field to see if I could be of any help."


    "Really?" Lin Chunju narrowed her eyes.


    Jiannan was a posthumous child and born premature; his two older brothers and sister had always taken care of him from a young age.


    Because of his weakness, he usually couldn''t handle the physical labor of farming but enjoyed fishing by the river or setting traps in the mountains for birds and wild rabbits.


    The reason why few villagers ventured into those mountains was not only because they were undeveloped but, oftentimes, large ferocious animals came down to forage.


    Only Jiannan, unaware of his own limits, regularly ventured there.


    Seeing his mother''s expression, Jiannan got nervous and hurriedly promised, "Truly, I''m older now, I should start pulling my weight around here."


    Lin Chunju''s expression softened a bit, "Alright then, just make sure you come back early."


    Just as Jiannan received the permission to leave, the baby girl in Lin Chunju''s arms suddenly began to wail.


    Her heart-wrenching cries nearly caused Jiannan to fall over.


    "Mother... what''s wrong?"


    While crying, Qingqing stared intently at Jiannan.


    Others might not see it, but Qingqing could see it clearly.


    Jiannan was shrouded in a cloud of black mist, so thick and terrifying that it sent chills down her spine.


    This was an omen of great misfortune; if Jiannan stepped out that door, he would never return!

 Chapter 5 - 5 The Cost of Changing Fate

    Chapter 5: Chapter 5 The Cost of Changing Fate


    The cries of the baby continued wave after wave, leaving the two people completely at a loss, their hearts feeling as though they were being squeezed.


    Lin Chunju reached out to check and frowned, "She didn''t poop or pee either..."


    Yue Jiannan was even more clueless and ventured, "Is she hungry?"


    "Impossible, your second sister-in-law just fed her."


    Seeing that they didn''t understand her intent, Yue Qingqing could only try to stretch her hand toward Yue Jiannan.


    Yue Jiannan stared at her chubby little paw, troubled, "This girl... she doesn''t want me to hold her, does she?"


    The response to him was an even louder cry from Yue Qingqing.


    With her current cultivation base, she could not change fate without touching the concerned person.


    Lin Chunju was out of ideas, "Try holding her."


    Yue Jiannan hurriedly took Yue Qingqing in his arms.


    The tiny baby was not heavy to hold, but it felt as though he was holding a thousand jun, making Yue Jiannan fearful of making any sudden movements.


    His way of holding the child was anything but standard, yet astonishingly, the baby stopped crying.


    "Since I was young, children have liked me, look even my older brother''s daughter..."@@@@


    Just as they breathed a sigh of relief, they saw Yue Qingqing suddenly grab the button on the front of Yue Jiannan''s collar.


    "What is she doing."


    More than two years old, Yue Xingxing was sitting in the courtyard with her grandmother, her head down, staring at some unknown bug, and it took a long time before she raised her head.


    The house was quiet, and no one noticed Yue Qingqing quietly opening her eyes.


    So tired, too tired.


    In her previous life, she had remained in the Qi Refinement Realm because changing fate required a significant cost.


    It drained her cultivation base and entangled her with karma.


    Unless it was for several elder martial brothers and her master, Yue Qingqing rarely took action.


    This time, she had prepared for her spiritual energy to be completely depleted.


    After all, the Yue family had treated her well; as the master had said, whether in life or in immortality, the most important thing is to be grateful and repay kindness.


    Unexpectedly, after her energy circulated through her meridians, she found that only the temporarily stored spiritual energy in her body had been exhausted.


    Thus, her energy plummeted instantly, yet her realm did not fall back to the bottom.


    After a while, Yue Qingqing finally understood the key.


    The ways of the Heavenly Dao are unpredictable, but every drink and every peck is preordained.


    Being a soul from a Different World, its karmic ties should remain in the original world, and now in this unnamed world, her past karmas naturally severed.


    Realizing this, Yue Qingqing couldn''t help but widen her eyes.


    Doesn''t this mean that she is now not governed by the laws of the Heavenly Dao and can change fate for others at will?

 Chapter 6: A Blessing in Disguise

    Chapter 6: Chapter 6: A Blessing in Disguise


    Yue Jiannan had not returned by dinner time.


    The braised rabbit that had been prepared the day before was set on the table, yet no one had an appetite.


    Lin Chunju anxiously waited at the door, repeatedly questioning the brothers Yue Jiandong and Yue Jianxi.


    "He really didn''t go to the fields?"


    "Did you see him on your way back, did you ask anyone?"


    The two had already gone out to search but hadn''t seen even a shadow.@@@@


    Yue Jiandong, thinking ahead, had also checked by the river, thankfully he hadn''t seen any clothing floating on the water.


    "Mom, don''t worry for now, big brother and I will go out and look again."


    Yue Jianxi had just taken a sip of water and was hurrying to rush out again when Lin Chunju stopped him.


    "That damn kid probably went to the back mountain again. He caught a rabbit yesterday, and today his heart has gone wild; he really thinks he can be a hunter. Don''t go look for him, let him perish out there."


    The house fell into a silence so profound you could hear a pin drop.


    Even Yue Xingxing sensed that something was off and sat silently on her chair.


    Lin Chunju was breathing heavily, and only Yue Qingqing, held in Zhang Ying''s arms, babbled, oblivious to the world.


    But no one could understand what she was trying to express.


    Zhang Ying hushed her softly, trying to quiet her daughter.


    Following Yue Qingqing''s gaze inadvertently toward the door, she suddenly cried out.


    Zhang Ying timidly asked, "Jiannan, what happened to you?"


    "Don''t even mention it, I caught a rabbit yesterday and thought I''d try my luck again today to see if I could find another one to improve our meals."


    The couple Yue Jiandong and his wife exchanged glances; his mother had guessed right.


    "But I never expected to encounter a bear."


    Although Yue Jiannan stood whole before them, everyone couldn''t help but inhale sharply.


    Bears were almost the most terrifying animal in the mountains, and even experienced hunters couldn''t be sure of escaping unscathed.


    "I saw it running towards me from a distance and ran for my life. At a critical moment, my clothes got caught on a branch."


    Yue Jianxi was immediately taken aback, "Then you were really in trouble?"


    Yue Jiannan, almost proud, lifted his collar, "Luckily, I have a big life. The branch just passed through here, I stumbled and rolled down the mountain, and in the end, I was fine, and the bear ran away."


    Everyone marveled at Yue Jiannan''s luck, only Lin Chunju kicked him twice with the tip of her shoe.


    "Why weren''t you carried off by the bear, you damn fool? Do you dare to go to the back mountain again?"


    Yue Jiandong''s long-awaited broom finally came down, Yue Jiannan screamed, yet he dared not dodge, only clutching his chest, immobilized.


    "I haven''t finished speaking yet. When I rolled down to the bottom of the mountain, guess what I found?"


    He carefully pulled out a bundle tied up with grass string from his embrace.


    When he unwrapped layer upon layer of leaves, a yellow-white plant resembling a radish with a mass of roots appeared.


    "Mom, is this the ginseng you were talking about?"

 Chapter 7 - 7 Late Night Conversation

    Chapter 7: Chapter 7 Late Night Conversation


    Ginseng!


    This was the precious medicine that could hang onto life, as Mother used to say.


    Lin Chunju took the leaf, examining it carefully for a few minutes.


    Nobody in the room dared to breathe heavily, though Yue Qingqing wanted to lean over for a look, her poor head just couldn''t bear it.


    She could only faintly see the object in Lin Chunju''s hand, emitting a gentle glow.


    "No mistake, it''s ginseng," Lin Chunju''s voice quivered slightly.


    Yue Jiannan cracked a smile, "Look at our luck, a blessing in disguise. Now you know you shouldn''t have hit me."


    "Big brother, you can give me a good beating!"


    No sooner had he spoken than Yue Jiannan felt like he was hit by a torrential downpour in his life.


    In the midst of his pleas, Lin Chunju said coldly, "Today you''re lucky, but you can''t always be so fortunate. Without giving you a lesson today, next time you might end up a skeleton on the mountain."


    Once the cries of agony ended, Yue Jiannan hung his head like a frost-bitten bok choy, looking pitiful.


    "Alright, let''s eat," Lin Chunju said to Zhang Ying, "Take away the third one''s bowl; let him go hungry."


    Yue Jiannan''s voice was almost a whine, "Mother, I really know I was wrong."


    Lin Chunju wasn''t softened, instead, she took the braised rabbit meat to reheat it on the stove.


    The rich aroma of the sauce enveloped the rabbit meat, which, after being boiled twice, was even softer and melted in the mouth.


    Zhang Ying even had an extra bowl of rice just with the broth.


    Yue Jiannan watched his two older brothers with a gloomy face, his mouth moving unconsciously as they chewed.


    After safely storing away the ginseng, Lin Chunju went to sleep.


    In the middle of the night, Yue Jiannan''s stomach growled incessantly, preventing him from falling asleep.


    Being at the age where he could eat the most, going hungry was even worse than getting beaten.


    Then he heard a knock at the door, and Yue Jiandong came in holding a bowl.


    "Big brother!" Yue Jiannan''s eyes lit up, eagerly stretching out his hand to receive it.


    But Yue Jiandong dodged, "Did you realize your mistake today?"


    Yue Jiannan nodded frantically, his eyes riveted on the bowl like a starving wolf, "I know."


    Yue Jiandong slammed the bowl down on the table with force.


    "You don''t know! You surely think it''s no big deal, you''re alive, aren''t you? But have you ever considered, if something happened to you, how would Mother go on living?"


    Yue Jiannan had always been afraid of his big brother and shrank his neck, saying in a small voice, "But you''re still here, aren''t you?"


    "Nonsense, is that the same? You don''t see it, but Mother has to be tough out of necessity. A widowed mother raising four children¡ªif she wasn''t tough, she''d have drowned herself long ago."


    "Our father died trying to save someone and was slandered by that family. Mother was so furious she went into labor, barely managed to give birth to you, and it nearly cost her half her life."


    "Though she doesn''t speak of it, out of all of us, the ones she worries about the most are Qingqing and you. If something happened to you, Mother couldn''t rest even in death."


    Feeling both ashamed and guilty, Yue Jiannan wiped his eyes with his hand, "You''re right, big brother, I''m good for nothing. At my age, I''m still making Mother worry. I won''t go to the back mountain anymore."


    Yue Jiandong clapped him on the shoulder, "Good that you''ve realized. I was a bit too harsh today, don''t hold it against me."


    "How could I blame you? It was I who worried everyone."


    "Eat up, this is what Mother left in the pot, still warm."


    Yue Jiannan finally got to eat the rabbit meat he had been longing for, and as he bit into it, he couldn''t help but let tears run down his face.

 Chapter 8 - 8 So Much Money?

    Chapter 8: Chapter 8 So Much Money?


    "Mom, I''m prepared to head into the city, don''t worry," Jiannan announced with newfound steadiness, his things packed before dawn had even broken.


    Lin Chunju''s demeanor softened considerably, as she packed several freshly made roll cakes for him.


    "Be careful on the road, and don''t lose yourself," she cautioned.


    As she saw him out to the doorway, something else came to mind, prompting her to call Jiannan back.


    "Wait a moment," she said.


    She turned and brought Qingqing from the inner room of the second house.


    The wakened baby yawned, her dewy eyes barely open.


    Jiannan, puzzled by the gesture, stared into his little niece''s eyes.


    "Mom, what''s this for?" he asked.


    Lin Chunju watched her granddaughter, waiting until the infant showed no reaction before nodding with satisfaction.


    "Alright, off you go," she instructed.


    Jiannan walked out the door, confused, and it took him a moment to come to his senses.


    After breakfast, the Yue family prepared for work, but Zhang Ying was stopped by her mother-in-law.


    "Yingzi, how did you come across this child?" she inquired.


    Zhang Ying, uncertain of the meaning, repeated the story she had previously told.


    "I was crying in the hospital chair, Jiandong had gone to fetch hot water, and suddenly I heard a child crying nearby. I looked down and found Qingqing. At that moment, I felt as if heaven had bestowed a child upon me," she recounted.


    As Lin Chunju listened, she kept an eye on Qingqing''s reactions.


    Before securing it, he peeked outside to check for any onlookers, adopting the air of a thief.


    "Do you know how much the ginseng fetched?" he excitedly asked.


    The Yue family members all began to guess.


    "Fifty?"


    "Eighty?"


    "Could it be over a hundred?"


    Bending down to remove his shoes, Jiannan pulled out two thick wads of cash from beneath the insoles.


    "Three hundred, the ginseng sold for three hundred yuan!"


    Jianxi was momentarily stunned, nearly spilling the bowl in his hand.


    Could a single piece of ginseng truly be worth so much?


    Yet Chunju calmly stated, "It''s about right; the shopkeeper probably suppressed the price for being a newcomer. Otherwise, it could have been higher."


    The family was left agape; such a small herb had earned them nearly half a year''s income.


    Chunju looked around, her gaze unintentionally sweeping over the child in Zhang Ying''s arms.


    Her last verdict sealed the matter, "This stays within us; not a word to outsiders."


    If word got out that the Yue family, known as impoverished, had such a stroke of luck, it could stir up no end of trouble.


    Moreover, since the herb was found in the mountains, if someone in the village sought to make an issue, claiming it was public property, they could force the Yue family to share the money.


    Considering these potential consequences, the Yue family members fell silent, their excitement brewing inwardly.


    This was three hundred yuan, after all; the Yues, impoverished for so long, had never before seen so much money.

 Chapter 9: Widow Lin Kills Her Husband?

    Chapter 9: Chapter 9: Widow Lin Kills Her Husband?


    Three hundred yuan was a considerable sum, especially for the Yue Family.


    But not a single family member dared to flaunt it; everyone acted like they had their mouths sawn shut, even more somber than usual.


    Early in the morning, Lin Chunju took out five yuan.


    "Jiannan, go to Butcher Liu''s at noon and get a few pounds of meat."


    Yue Jiannan replied with an ''ah'', "Mom, didn''t you say that wealth should not be flaunted? Why are we eating meat then?"


    Lin Chunju pouted, "The money won''t breed children if it''s just lying around; better to improve the family''s diet. Your second sister-in-law now needs to nurse two babies; she needs to regain her strength."


    Yue Jiannan then took the money and ran out quickly.


    In the courtyard, Yue Xingxing heard the word ''meat'' and unclearly clapped her hands, saying, "Eat meat, meat good."


    Lin Chunju picked her up, her smile only ever so tender when facing the child.


    "Xingxing is a good girl; when our family has money, we''ll eat meat every meal."


    At that moment, Zhou Er Gou''s wife happened to be heading out to dump water and overheard the comment, letting out a snicker.


    "The sun''s still out, and you''re already dreaming?"


    The Yue Family was the poorest in Daye Village, yet they still dreamt of eating meat at every meal.


    Lin Chunju, without even bothering to acknowledge her, waved her off like a fly and carried the little granddaughter back into the house.


    Zhou Er Gou''s wife, feeling embarrassed, spat and splashed out the water in her basin forcefully.


    The wish to live as a carefree idler in this life seemed to have a bit of a chance of coming true.


    The village chief, surnamed Zhang, was well-respected in the village.


    Upon seeing Zhou Er Gou''s wife disheveled on the ground, he sighed.


    "Sister-in-law from the Lin Family, what happened here? Why did it come to blows?"


    Zhou Er Gou''s wife, covering her face, wailed hoarsely, "I can''t live anymore; Widow Lin wants to kill me, she''s going to beat me to death."


    Village Chief Zhang''s eyelid twitched; Zhou Er Gou''s wife was known for being a gossip and troublemaker in the village, and this was not her first offense.


    Now she was complaining without making any sense, endlessly shrieking until it hurt everyone''s ears.


    It was Lin Chunju who coldly said, "She called me a husband-cursor and insulted old Yue for his untimely death."


    Zhou Er Gou''s wife immediately clammed up, her face still covered and silent.


    In the village, calling someone a widow who brings bad luck or a star of death was something that, if heard by the person involved, could lead them to come at you with a knife.


    Getting beaten for it was well-deserved.


    Zhou Er Gou''s wife cursed inwardly; who knew Lin Chunju''s ears were so sharp.


    The villagers murmured among themselves, and even Village Chief Zhang thought Zhou Er Gou''s wife got what she deserved.


    Zhou Er Gou, red-faced with shame, kept apologizing to Lin Chunju, but Lin Chunju paid no heed and turned to look at the onlookers instead.


    "Wang Jinshun, you, come out."


    "In front of everyone here, tell us, how exactly did my husband die?"

 Chapter 10: Reckless Talk Invites Disaster

    Chapter 10: Chapter 10: Reckless Talk Invites Disaster


    The crowd watching opened up a gap, and the middle-aged man who was called out looked embarrassed.


    "This... What does your man''s death have to do with me?"


    Seeing this, everyone couldn''t help frowning.


    Who didn''t know that, over a decade ago, Wang Jinshun accidentally fell into the water, and Yue Dashan, who happened to pass by, dove in to save him without even taking off his clothes.


    Wang Jinshun struggled desperately, causing both of them to be unable to surface.


    Yue Dashan used his last breath to push the man ashore, but he himself never made it back up.


    Lin Chunju looked at him coldly, her gaze making Wang Jinshun''s head hang lower and lower.


    He felt guilty.


    It was true that Yue Dashan had died for him; at the time, Lin Chunju was pregnant and taking care of three other children.


    The head of the production team said Yue Dashan was the only labor force in the family.


    With him gone, it was very hard for the widow and orphans to survive in those times, so they made Wang Jinshun give half of his work points and food to the Yue Family every month.@@@@


    Wang Jinshun immediately backtracked, claiming that Yue Dashan didn''t save him, that he had been swimming in the river, and Yue Dashan drowned himself by being a busybody, so it had nothing to do with him.


    He felt he had done nothing wrong, although Lin Chunju had given birth prematurely due to this incident, and the child that was born, Yue Jiannan, was not healthy, but after all, didn''t he survive?


    Now aren''t all members of the Yue Family living well? What fault did he have!


    Thinking of this, Wang Jinshun raised his head, "Yue Dashan drowned in the river because of his own misfortune."


    There is cause and effect in the Tao, and irresponsible words must bring disaster.


    With Wang Jinshun''s performance, Er Gou''s wife became aggressive again.


    "From now on, everyone in the village should stay away from Widow Lin, be careful not to be cursed by her."


    Zhang, the village chief, said angrily, "The government has long said that we should break free from feudal superstitions, and from now on, no one is allowed to say such things!"


    Er Gou''s wife pursed her lips and, not daring to confront the village chief, picked up the basin from the ground and went back inside.


    Her hair still disheveled, but she looked like a cocky, victorious rooster.


    Wang Xiaoni trembled with anger, leaning against Lin Chunju.


    "Mom, don''t listen to her nonsense; your fate is very good, and it will get better and better."


    Lin Chunju patted her back.


    "You go back inside quickly, don''t catch a cold."


    Village Chief Zhang sighed and dispersed the crowd.


    "Alright, go about your business, don''t just stand here foolishly."


    Turning back, he consoled Lin Chunju, "Sister-in-law of the Yue Family, don''t mind these words, the events of the past... sigh, justice is in people''s hearts."


    Yue Qingqing pursed her little lips and struggled to poke her head out from the swaddling, watching the direction Wang Jinshun left.


    Wang Jinshun''s retreating figure was enveloped in darkness.

 Chapter 11 - 11 The Natural Laws are Clear and Bright

    Chapter 11: Chapter 11 The Natural Laws are Clear and Bright


    At night, when the Yue Family heard what had happened, they trembled with rage.


    Yue Jiannan''s reaction was the strongest.


    "That bastard Wang Jinshun, if it weren''t for him, would I have been fatherless as soon as I was born? I... I''ll fight him to the death!"


    The youth''s eyes reddened as he shouldered the hoe from the corner of the wall, ready to run out the door and fight desperately.


    Yue Jiandong held his brother tightly in his arms.


    "What''s the use of being rash, is his life worth your life?"


    Yue Jianxi, not eloquent, kept urging repeatedly, "Little brother, put the thing down."


    Zhang Ying, looking from one to another, was so anxious that she broke into a sweat.


    But Yue Qingqing''s eyes were fixed on the braised pork on the table.


    Fat intermingled with lean, the pork was coated with a deep red sauce made from fermented tofu, continually giving off an enticing aroma.


    As for Yue Jiannan...


    It''s nothing, his Qi Fortune was very normal.


    After all the fuss, it was Lin Chunju who slammed her hands on the table.@@@@


    "Big brother, don''t stop him. Let this scoundrel get beaten by someone else, then he''ll learn his lesson."


    Yue Jiandong thought about it and agreed. After all, Wang Jinshun was someone who labored in the fields, possessing considerable strength.


    In contrast, Yue Jiannan was naturally frail. As a child, the slightest breeze would give him a runny nose, and it was only in the past couple of years that he had started to get better.


    His mother made him swear never to seek revenge on Wang Jinshun.


    His mother said he was young and should not be blinded by hatred; he was the eldest, responsible for leading his family to a better life, instead of constantly squabbling with the rats in the ditches.


    His mother said so much, some of which Yue Jiandong still remembered, but some had been forgotten.


    However, there was one sentence he remembered most clearly.


    Heaven''s justice is clear; retribution is certain.


    Those words, like an echo in the wind, had resonated in Yue Jiandong''s mind for over a decade.


    But is there really such a thing as retribution under the heavens? So many years had passed, and Wang Jinshun was still very much alive and well.


    "Yiyaya..."


    The infantile voice interrupted Yue Jiandong''s reverie. He followed the sound and saw Yue Qingqing swinging her little fists at the braised pork on the table.


    Zhang Ying cooed affectionately and amused, "Qingqing be good, wait until you''re older to eat."


    As if understanding, the little girl''s face showed indignation, and in a huff, she buried her head in Yingzi''s arms.


    Yue Jiandong couldn''t help but grin, his mother was right, there was no need to be blinded by hatred.


    Might this child indeed be a gift from the heavens?


    This good mood lasted until the next day at noon.


    Yue Jiandong had just finished his work when, as he took off his straw hat and sat by the edge of the field fanning himself, a figure in the distance came running, shouting incessantly.


    "Elder of the Yue family, come with me quickly!"


    "Your youngest brother is about to fight with Wang Jinshun, you better hurry and stop them, or it''ll be too late to prevent trouble!"

 Chapter 12 - 12 Retribution is Inescapable

    Chapter 12: Chapter 12 Retribution is Inescapable


    Yue Jiandong was suddenly startled. Could it be that the third brother became angrier as he thought about it last night, and really went to confront Wang Jinshun today?


    But with his slight frame, who could he even beat?


    "Uncle Wei, could you please explain in detail what happened?"


    "Aiyah, it''s too much to explain in a sentence or two, just come with me quickly."


    Jiandong hurried to the riverside, where a throng of people had already formed a crowd.


    "Excuse me, please let me through."


    Upon seeing Jiandong, the onlookers parted way to make a path.


    Under the large willow tree on the riverbank, Yue Jiannan was clenching his fists tightly and panting heavily like a little calf.


    Wang Jinshun stood before him with a crooked smile, deliberately leaning in and pointing at his own face.


    "Come on, you wanted to hit me, right? Well, strike me then."


    Yue Jiannan trembled all over, his fists making a cracking sound as he strained with all his might not to throw a punch.


    Seeing this, Wang Jinshun became even more arrogant and spat on Yue Jiannan''s face.


    "Coward, weakling!"


    "Just like your dad, a coward, you may well be a short-lived ghost too."


    A roar erupted from Yue Jiannan''s chest, and his fist fiercely smashed towards Wang Jinshun''s face.


    Halfway through, however, it was grasped by a hand as large as a fan.


    "Third brother, he''s doing this on purpose to provoke you."


    The onlookers immediately gasped.


    The harshest insult in the village was to be called a ''finished household''. Surely the eldest of the Yue family wouldn''t actually fight him to the death over this.


    Some people saw Wang Jinshun''s intentions and whispered among themselves.


    "Wang Jinshun was also saved by Yue Dashan. Why does he hate the Yue family so much?"


    The clever ones replied, "It''s like owing a debt. At first, you feel guilty for owing money to someone. But once you realize you can''t pay it back, you start wishing the creditor would just drop dead."


    "These years have been peaceful enough. But yesterday, Widow Lin exposed Wang Jinshun in front of so many people; he must hate the Yue family to the core."


    "Tss, no wonder he cursed them with ''finished household.'' The eldest of the Yue family won''t actually hit him, will he?"


    Yue Jiandong stood unflinchingly, took hold of his brother''s sleeve, and said in a deep voice,


    "Let''s go. Don''t stoop to arguing with a rat."


    Seeing Wang Jinshun''s thin, rat-like face, the crowd couldn''t help but burst into laughter.


    Wang Jinshun, furious and exasperated, chased after their departing figures with insults.


    "The whole Yue family is a bunch of weaklings, none with true grit. Widow Lin is a born calamity star; the Yue family deserves to be poor for generations!"


    In his zeal to curse them, he failed to notice the path under his feet.


    The ancient willow tree, with its gnarled, thick roots buried in the soil, jutted out in relief.


    Wang Jinshun tripped over it fiercely, his body went limp, and he rolled into the river.


    With a splash, water flew in all directions.


    The crowd stood dumbfounded.

 Chapter 13 - 13 The Vow Comes True

    Chapter 13: Chapter 13 The Vow Comes True


    "Ah, someone come quick, someone''s fallen into the water!"


    "Wang Jinshun fell into the river."


    The person in the river bobbed up and down, his head surfacing now and then to cry for help.


    "Save me..."


    "Help, hurry and save me."


    The shrill screams echoed over the river, as the two brothers of the Yue Family returned to the scene.


    "Brother, this bastard has fallen into the water." Yue Jiannan couldn''t believe his eyes.


    Yue Jiandong didn''t speak, but that phrase echoed in his mind again.


    Justice is clear, and retribution is certain.


    More and more people gathered at the riverbank, all pointing and discussing the situation in the river.


    Daye Village was next to the river, and many people could swim, with Wang Jinshun being the odd one out.


    Normally, there would certainly have been warm-hearted people diving in to save him, but upon recognizing who had fallen in, no one was willing to go into the water.@@@@


    It was a joke, more than a decade ago Yue Dashan saved Wang Jinshun, but ended up implicated to death. His remaining children and wife almost didn''t survive.


    Plus, everything he had done just now had been witnessed by everybody, so even fewer people were willing to help.


    Such an ingrate, what if he bit back after being saved?


    The village head, who had hurried over, directed the capable swimmers on the shore to pull Wang Jinshun out of the water.


    Although he didn''t like Wang Jinshun, as the village head, he couldn''t just stand by and watch him drown.


    The rescue didn''t go smoothly though.


    Wang Jinshun struggled too violently, almost dragging his would-be rescuers down with him.


    Fortunately, there were several people and all of them strong young men.


    They had no choice but to knock Wang Jinshun out before dragging him to the shore.


    Once on shore, everyone realized Wang Jinshun''s right leg was broken, probably from hitting a rock or something when he rolled down the bank, now it hung limp and twisted.


    No one knew who exclaimed first.


    "Yesterday, Wang Jinshun seemed to swear that if he lied, he would break his leg."


    "Not just that, after Yue Dashan died trying to save him years ago, now in broad daylight he managed to fall into the river all by himself."


    The more the crowd thought about it, the more mysterious it seemed.


    Even the village head felt a chill, and couldn''t help shivering.


    "Alright, stop talking, let''s get him to the clinic first."


    The onlookers fell silent, but the rumors in the village could not be suppressed.


    He had just made a pledge yesterday, and today his leg was broken.


    Can this really be explained as mere coincidence?

 Chapter 14: Biting Back

    Chapter 14: Chapter 14: Biting Back


    Lin Chunju carried Yue Qingqing out of the courtyard.


    The little baby in her arms was excessively curious, her round and big eyes always liked to look around, appearing both naive and cute.


    Just as they reached the entrance of the courtyard, they happened to come across Er Gou''s wife scrubbing clothes at the door.


    When the woman caught a glimpse of Lin Chunju, she bolted into the house as if she''d seen a ghost.


    She moved so quickly that she nearly tripped over the threshold.


    As the door creaked shut, a faintly panicked scream could still be heard from inside.


    Zhang Ying was getting ready for work and raised her eyebrows in surprise at the scene.


    "Mom, she acted as if she had met with evil spirits."


    Lin Chunju snorted lightly, "She''s guilt-ridden."


    The rumors in the village these few days had been getting more and more far-fetched. Some said the heavens couldn''t stand Wang Jinshun repaying kindness with ingratitude while others claimed Yue Dashan''s spirit had returned and was showing its might after seeing his family bullied.


    There were a hodgepodge of stories; the village head even held a meeting specifically to tell everyone not to spread idle gossip without reason.


    The more he emphasized this, the more seriously people gossiped privately.


    Er Gou''s wife was ignorant, and remembering that she had cursed Lin, the widow, she would rather bury her head under the blankets when sleeping at night.@@@@


    Zhang Ying, who had also been frequently asked about these matters, smiled at the words.


    "Mom, I''ll have to trouble you and my sister-in-law to take care of Qingqing while I go to work."


    Zhang Ying looked back three times with each step she took, clearly finding it hard to leave.


    Seeing this, Lin Chunju said, "The autumn harvest is almost over. You and your older brother can stay at home and spend some time with the child for the next few days."


    Although tempted, Zhang Ying shook her head, "No, we still have to plow the fields."


    In the village, after the autumn harvest, diligent families would plow the fields before the freeze, so that the seedlings would sprout faster, have fewer diseases and pests, and yield a bit more the following year.


    Lin Chunju feigned dissatisfaction, "There''s still some time left. Resting at home for a few days won''t delay anything."


    Her daughter''s big eyes were staring at her, her skin, growing whiter, shining like a freshly steamed bun in the sunlight, tempting one to pinch it.


    However, thinking of the Yue Family''s situation, Zhang Ying still steeled her heart.


    "I heard that taking advantage of the end of the autumn harvest, Village Head Zhang is planning to organize people to dig ditches."


    Digging ditches was physically demanding work, but the government would not skimp on payments, and all the able-bodied men in the village were eager to sign up.


    Zhang Ying would also have to deliver water and food, leaving her no time to rest.


    After hearing this, Lin Chunju sighed inwardly and did not persuade her further.


    Alas, in the end, it was because the Yue Family was too poor. It would be better if they could be a little richer.


    Although there was still money from the last ginseng sale hidden away in a cabinet, relative to the overall situation of the Yue Family, it was merely a drop in the bucket, not enough for urgent needs.

 Chapter 15 - 15 What鈥檚 wrong with Qingqing?

    Chapter 15: Chapter 15 What''s wrong with Qingqing?


    The government officially announced the news that they were preparing to construct a water conservancy project.


    Digging canals would pay wages daily, with rates equivalent to those of urban workers.


    It happened to be at the tail end of the autumn harvest when the village''s working-age population was largely idle, so families eagerly signed up.


    For the sake of fairness, Village Chief Zhang gave priority to households facing difficulties when selecting participants.


    The Yue Family landed a spot, awarded to the strong and able-bodied Yue Jiandong.


    Though the job paid well, it was hard work.


    Early in the morning, Lin Chunju got up to cook for the family, with Zhang Ying lending a hand.


    Wang Xiaoni, who had just come out of her confinement period, could do some lighter chores.


    Having lain around for days, she felt uncomfortable and wrapped a headscarf tightly around her hair first thing in the morning, then set to clean the courtyard, inside and out.


    Tiny Yue Xingxing lay at the edge of the bed, watching over two little ones smaller than herself.


    "Stop sleeping, you lazy... lazy eggs."


    Yue Qingqing couldn''t help but laugh at her serious demeanor.@@@@


    Her eyes, like dark grapes, curved into crescents, and the corners of her mouth lifted in a pretty arc.


    Yue Xingxing opened her eyes wide in curiosity.


    Then, she poked Yue Xiaohu''s chubby cheeks with her finger, "Why aren''t you laughing?"


    Under the table, Yue Jiandong quietly took his wife''s hand.


    The two of them exchanged a glance, and then simultaneously lowered their heads.


    Lin Chunju noted this scene with inward glee.


    Jiandong was a good kid, tall and strong, and not only that, but also bold yet careful. If the Yue family hadn''t been so poor, he wouldn''t have married at twenty-eight.


    Zhang Ying''s past circumstances had been even tougher. She had grown up under a stepmother, treated almost like a beast of burden, and had barely managed to scrape through to adulthood.


    Initially, Zhang Ying''s stepmother demanded twice the usual bridal price before agreeing to let her marry into their family.


    Fortunately, they led a harmonious life together. She rarely smiled before they had children, but now, it seemed their wishes had come true.


    Thinking this, Lin Chunju looked at Yue Qingqing sentimentally.


    Although Qingqing was a girl, since she had come to the family, everything that happened to the Yue family seemed to be good fortune, though whether it was coincidence or not was unknown.


    As she cleaned the dishes by the stove, Lin Chunju envisioned a brighter future.


    Digging canals was tiring, but it paid well, which could help the main household build some savings.


    Suddenly, an alarmed cry came from outside.


    "Qingqing... what happened to Qingqing?"


    Hearing the shout, Lin Chunju nearly dropped the bowl she was holding.


    After steadying her shaken nerves, she hurriedly ran towards the front courtyard.

 Chapter 16 - 16 Capricious Actions

    Chapter 16: Chapter 16 Capricious Actions


    From the kitchen to the front yard was only a short dozen steps, but Lin Chunju''s mind conjured many terrifying thoughts.


    Had the child bumped into something? Fallen? Had the neighbor''s daughter-in-law done something spiteful?


    But what appeared before her eyes was Yue Qingqing comfortably lying in Yue Jiandong''s arms.


    Lin Chunju was puzzled, "What happened? Why were you shouting?"


    Zhang Ying was somewhat scared, worried that her mother-in-law disliked her daughter, and only kept her head down, not daring to make a sound.


    Yue Jiandong explained in a low voice, "Mother, it''s nothing, it''s just that Qingqing has been clinging to me and doesn''t want to let go."


    He had only intended to hold his daughter before leaving, but the little girl would not let go once she was in his arms.


    Lin Chunju frowned at Yue Qingqing, but the latter had no intention of making eye contact and just clung to her father. Anyone trying to take her away made her tug at her neck and cry.


    The crying was so harrowing and the look so pitiful that it deterred anyone from touching her.


    Lin Chunju also tried to pick her up, but Yue Qingqing cried like a whistle brought to life, causing the neighbor''s daughter-in-law to stick her head out.


    Zhang Ying became more anxious.


    Her mother-in-law was always unbending, and if Qingqing delayed Yue Jiandong from getting to work, she would definitely be disliked.


    She could only muster the courage to explain, "Mother, Qingqing might have a bit of separation anxiety, just coax her a bit and she''ll be fine."


    However, Lin Chunju simply waved her hand, surprisingly showing no sign of anger.


    "Let''s see."


    See? See what?


    The neighbor''s daughter-in-law, peeking out, silently scoffed.


    The Yue Family was poor, yet they had so many issues.


    In any normal family, who would care what a troublesome child thought, a spanking would surely make her release her grip?


    Yue Jiannan, always clever, procured a rattle-drum from Yue Xingxing''s hands.


    Gently shaking it in his hand, the pellets struck the drum surface, producing a thudding sound.


    Yue Qingqing''s attention was indeed captured.


    "Sweetie, do you want this?"


    Yue Jiannan stretched out his arms, trying to coax Yue Qingqing out of her big brother''s embrace.


    Yue Qingqing''s little face suddenly showed a furious expression.


    She thought of her master''s stubborn donkey mount in her past life, always stopping halfway, with the master dangling a carrot in front of it.


    She... was actually receiving the same treatment!


    Yue Qingqing cried loudly, causing even more chaos among the onlookers.


    Zhang Ying looked desperate, afraid her mother-in-law might throw her daughter out and anxious about not reaching work on time.


    "Mother, what should we do?"


    Wang Xiaoni''s eyes were full of sympathy. Qingqing usually never fussed, much easier to handle than her own little rascal. Why was she suddenly being so stubborn today?


    Lin Chunju furrowed her brow tightly, deep in thought.@@@@

 Chapter 17 - 17 Give Up Wages

    Chapter 17: Chapter 17 Give Up Wages


    In the Yue Family, it had always been Lin Chunju who called the shots. When she fell silent, no one else dared to speak up, and all they could do was anxiously fret in private.


    In that instant, Lin Chunju thought through a lot, replaying everything that had happened since Yue Qingqing arrived home in her mind.


    She finally made up her mind.


    "Then we won''t go."


    "Mother!" Zhang Ying cried out in alarm, afraid her mother-in-law had lost her senses.


    "Don''t be angry, I''ll coax her again, she''ll be fine with some more coaxing."


    Zhang Ying''s voice was tinged with tears, nearly begging as she reached out to Yue Qingqing, "Baby, be good, come down."


    Yue Qingqing pouted, her eyes misty with tears.


    It wasn''t that she was disobedient, but she simply couldn''t make this trip.


    When her grandfather held her, she wanted to change his fortunes, but she realized she couldn''t.


    It proved that the matter involved more than just Yue Jiandong alone; after all, her cultivation base was too weak to harness much spiritual energy.


    With no other choice, she could only resort to this method.


    Besides, she had taken a considerable risk. If the Yue Family sensed anything unusual about her, who knew if they would cast her aside, deeming her a demon.


    Fortunately, Lin Chunju had no such intention and instead repeated her decision to everyone.


    "Let''s not go. Eldest brother can rest at home today."


    "Chief, since the Eldest Yue won''t go, aren''t you short one man? Look, how about my husband? Tough skin, strong muscles, he''s good for the job."


    Zhou Ergou thumped his chest loudly to prove the point.


    Although Chief Zhang felt the Zhou household was prone to skimping and might not work wholeheartedly, since they needed an extra hand, he nodded in agreement.


    "Go register your name, and come along."


    Er Gou''s wife burst into loud laughter, delightfully yelling towards Yue Jiandong''s retreating figure.


    "No wonder the Yue family is poor, they even let a money loser get away with it."


    Yue Jiandong turned and looked at her coldly, causing Er Gou''s wife''s scalp to tingle, but she mustered up the courage to snort back.


    "What are you looking at? I''m not wrong."


    The bystanders were curious about the reason, and Er Gou''s wife exaggerated the story she had witnessed.


    The villagers couldn''t help exclaiming.


    "Really? All because of a baby."


    "The Yue Family is really foolish, to go through with such a thing when they are already short of money."


    "From the city, who knows what kind of wealthy diseases she''s caught."


    Once Chief Zhang knew the reason, he was somewhat displeased as well, but after all, he was a decent person.


    "Stop gossiping, everyone, come to the clearing for roll call."


    Yue Jiandong clenched his fists as he walked back, feeling in his heart as though a jar of spices had been overturned, both bitter and astringent.

 Chapter 18: Something Went Wrong

    Chapter 18: Chapter 18: Something Went Wrong


    The Yue Family''s house seemed shrouded in clouds.


    Zhang Ying pursed her lips as she held Yue Qingqing, occasionally letting out a light sigh.


    She didn''t have the heart to blame her daughter, but still, she felt it was a pity.


    The Yue Family had to stretch every penny, and watching a money-making opportunity slip through their fingers was hard to ignore.


    Although Yue Jiandong didn''t say what had happened when he came home, Lin Chunju could guess a thing or two from his expression.


    "Stop frowning, it''s rare you get a break; spend some time with your daughter."


    Yue Jiandong rubbed his face, trying to pull together a smile, then went back to check on his mischievous little girl.


    "Qingqing, what on earth are you thinking about?"


    Yue Jiandong rubbed his daughter''s cheek with his chin, and Qingqing, disliking the stubble on his face, cried out "ah ah", trying to push his big face away with her little hands.


    Zhang Ying couldn''t help but let out a pleased smile at the scene.


    Her mother was right, having some spare time to spend at home with her daughter wasn''t so bad.


    After playing for a while, Yue Jiandong held his daughter in front of him, and Qingqing looked at him with big, woeful eyes.


    "Oh, this skin is way too delicate."


    Zhang Ying slapped him lightly, not pleased, "You''ve rubbed Qingqing''s cheeks all red."


    She was usually gentle, and it was only at times like these that she showed a bit of coquettish anger.@@@@


    "She needs to relieve herself."


    Wang Xiaoni, full of envy, said, "Qingqing is so easy to raise. She always finds a way to let the adults know when she needs to urinate or defecate, and she never pees the bed. So sensible."


    In comparison, Yue Xiaohu was much more trouble, as the other clothesline was filled with his diapers.


    Zhang Ying held her daughter tenderly. Before she could respond modestly, an annoying voice came from outside.


    "Know nothing, if she were obedient, she wouldn''t have caused that incident this morning. I tell you, she''s nothing but a jinx."


    The speaker was indeed the wife of Second Zhou from next door.


    The Yue family''s yard was very close to hers, but their relationship was extremely poor.


    Jiandong said it was because after Second Zhou''s wife moved into the Zhou house, she thought she could take advantage of the widow next door.


    Unfortunately, Lin Chunju was tough and did not tolerate any nonsense, which led to a few altercations where Second Zhou''s wife not only failed to benefit but was caught and beaten twice.


    A grudge was set.


    Usually, Zhang Ying would not even talk to her, but when it involved her daughter, she couldn''t hold back.


    "You''re talking nonsense. My Qingqing is no jinx."


    "She would be, if she hadn''t..."


    Second Zhou''s wife, hands on her hips and acting superior, was about to say more when someone breathlessly ran up from a distance.


    Upon closer look, it was the eldest son of Village Chief Zhang.


    "Something''s happened! Anyone whose men dig ditches, go to the dam and check it out¡ªthere''s been an accident!"

 Chapter 19: A Good Child

    Chapter 19: Chapter 19: A Good Child


    Has there been an accident?


    From the eldest Zhan''s voice alone, it was clear that the incident was no minor matter.


    Otherwise, why would he go from house to house asking questions? It must have affected more than just one or two people.


    Zhang Ying and Wang Xiaoni exchanged a look, their faces filled with dread.


    Er Gou''s wife cried out loudly and rushed forward, gripping the eldest Zhan''s arm tightly.


    "What happened? Tell me clearly, what happened to my man?"


    The eldest Zhan was tripped up and nearly fell.


    "When they were digging the ditch, the ground collapsed, and many people fell in. The hole was so deep, I heard some couldn''t get up at all."


    Everyone who heard it found it terrifying, and Er Gou''s wife''s eyes rolled back, nearly fainting.


    "Don''t faint just yet; go and see your man; he might not have fallen in."


    Upon hearing the reassurance from the eldest Zhan, Er Gou''s wife took a deep breath.


    "Exactly, my man has great luck, unlike some short-lived ghosts. I... I''m going now."


    She staggered away quickly.


    The Yue Family, being indirectly insulted, chose not to argue, her heart filled with shock.


    Lin Chunju gasped in shock upon receiving the news.


    "Has something really happened?"


    While life had roughened Lin Chunju''s exterior to resemble the other villagers, her courage and insight were incomparable.


    Yue Qingqing was certain that Lin Chunju had noticed her difference.


    What would she face next? Being abandoned was the best outcome, being burnt as a demon would be truly unlucky.


    Her eyes whirled before she managed a pitiful expression.


    She looked both well-behaved and heartbreakingly adorable, trying not to cry.


    Lin Chunju observed without losing focus, taking in everything.


    The Yue Family held their breath, feeling that something big was about to happen.


    After a long moment, Lin Chunju suddenly broke into a smile.


    "Good child, Qingqing is a good child."


    Zhang Ying''s tightly held heart finally settled, and Yue Jiandong also sighed in relief.


    Lin Chunju gently caressed Yue Qingqing''s cheek with her palm, carefully avoiding the calluses on her fingers.


    The baby''s skin was too soft, making one afraid to exert any force.


    Lin Chunju smiled again and handed the child back to Zhang Ying.


    "Yingzi, take good care of her; this child is blessed."


    Zhang Ying nodded firmly and held Yue Qingqing close to her heart.


    Lin Chunju also let go in that moment, regardless of the child''s oddities, since Qingqing was picked up by Zhang Ying it was destined to be a Yue Family child.


    That she could remind the Yue Family to avoid disaster despite the risks showed that the child was inherently kind-hearted.

 Chapter 20: Too Bizarre

    Chapter 20: Chapter 20: Too Bizarre


    It wasn''t until the evening, when the people who had gone to the dam started returning, that the Yue Family learned about what had accurately happened.


    At first, everything was normal; the village chief assigned tasks to everyone, and they all worked hard.


    Even though it was already autumn, the scorching sun still made everyone feel as if they were almost melting.@@@@


    After eating the dry food they had brought at noon, everyone started feeling sleepy involuntarily, and the pace of their work gradually slowed down.


    The accident occurred at this time.


    No one knew who first shouted that the ground had cracked, only then did someone notice a winding crack had appeared underfoot without their knowing when.


    There was no time to run, the crack split open violently.


    Like a ferocious gaping mouth, it viciously swallowed the people around it.


    The pit was three to four meters deep, not very deep, but falling in unexpectedly, many people were dazed with stars before their eyes, and could not get up as if their bodies had fallen apart.


    The village chief was extremely anxious, sending his eldest son to go house to house to notify everyone, while organizing the remaining people for the rescue.


    They also had to watch out for any "newly grown" cracks under their feet.


    Although there were no collapses afterward, the work for the day was definitely off.


    Counting the numbers, a total of about a dozen villagers had fallen into the pit.


    Fortunately, someone had shouted a warning beforehand, and most of the people who fell had some preparation, managing to protect the vital parts of their bodies. When they were rescued, it was found that they only had scratches and nothing serious.


    "No matter, if you don''t pay up, I''ll sit at your doorstep wailing, let everyone see how the Yue Family''s bad luck spreads to my family."


    Yue Jiandong knew there was no reasoning with such a scoundrel, "Then go ahead and cry, see if anyone cares."


    Saying this, he turned to go back inside, but Ergou''s wife''s expression changed, and she rushed up and sat down on the ground, really about to start screaming.


    Lin Chunju''s cold voice came from inside the house.


    "Dare to make a sound and see, didn''t you think about why today only your family and Wang Jinshun''s family were so unlucky?"


    Ergou''s wife, who had just opened her mouth, suddenly closed it, almost biting her tongue.


    Thinking it over, the most seriously injured today were her own man and Wang Jinshun''s eldest son.


    Ergou''s hand was broken, and he would need quite a while to recover.


    Wang Daming was even more unlucky. When he fell, he landed on his stomach, and unfortunate enough to hit a sharp, large stone below.


    According to the clinic''s staff, it seemed he had injured that place, and he didn''t have any children yet.


    Wang Jinshun had previously cursed Yue Jiandong to be childless by the riverside, but now...


    The more Ergou''s wife thought, the more she felt a cold sweat at her back, noting that those who had offended the Yue Family recently had all met bad ends.


    Wang Jinshun broke his leg, his own son also had an accident, and her own man too...


    Lin Chunju''s sinister voice seemed to echo in her ears, Ergou''s wife suddenly covered her mouth and dragged Ergou into the house.


    They couldn''t afford to provoke them, the Yue Family was too ominous!

 Chapter 21: The New Year is Approaching

    Chapter 21: Chapter 21: The New Year is Approaching


    A month had passed since the collapse.


    The government had people investigate and finally figured out the cause.


    Decades ago, many villages had people digging tunnels or air-raid shelters because of the war.


    Which it was is not known anymore; one can only guess it was one of the two.


    Because the person who dug it only made a shape and then stopped halfway.


    After decades of weathering and geological changes, the structure was already crumbling from the inside, though it wasn''t apparent from the outside.


    This time, when the ditch was being dug, it just happened to loosen an opening, resulting in bad luck for the surrounding people.


    Once these circumstances were investigated and understood, Chief Zhang reorganized the workforce to dig the ditch.


    This time, detailed arrangements were made, and no accidents occurred again.


    After all the detours, Yue Jiandong also joined in to work the second time around and naturally got his wages without a hitch.


    Rumors that had been suppressed in the village started flying around again.


    Especially after Wang Daming visited the town hospital and discovered he really had lost the Ability to reproduce, the spread of rumors reached its peak.


    Everyone had the same thought¡ª


    One must not provoke the Yue Family, for who knew what might happen.


    When it came to this, people would always cite the Wang Jinshun Family as an example.


    Wang Jinshun''s leg had healed but he didn''t walk smoothly, almost becoming a semi-cripple.@@@@


    Not to mention his son, although the government had compensated them a large sum of money, what good was it when he was bereft of descendants?


    With just a light roll in the water, no additional seasonings were needed; the natural taste was mouthwateringly tender and fresh.


    Yue Qingqing, the little foodie, could always finish two bowls while holding her little bowl, even more than Yue Xiaohu, causing Zhang Ying to worry each time that her daughter might overeat.


    Fortunately, Yue Qingqing practiced Spiritual Energy every night; her body was stronger than ordinary children''s, and she never got sick or felt unwell.


    With the arrival of winter, Daye Village was covered in a white snowy blanket.


    This was the leisure period of the year, and families spent more and more time indoors.


    Thanks to this year''s good harvest, in addition to the income from ginseng and ditch digging, the Yue Family would have a comfortable winter for once.


    The Yue Family bought some cured pelts from the village''s old hunter, and Zhang Ying made hats for the three children so they wouldn''t freeze their ears when going out.


    Yue Qingqing, wearing a little bear-shaped hat, was held up by Lin Chunju in the yard as usual.


    The snowflakes gently landed on her cheeks and quickly melted away, like a cool kiss.


    A smile that wouldn''t fade played on Lin Chunju''s face.


    "The New Year is approaching."


    Yue Qingqing watched the sky nostalgically.


    In the past, although she was a cultivator, her master always gathered her and her four fellow disciples to celebrate the New Year together like ordinary folks.


    Red paper cutouts adorned the windows, and the most boisterous junior brother always used a Spell to make the snow in the yard drift and whirl into various shapes.


    At these thoughts, Yue Qingqing felt inexplicably sad.


    She had come to a Different World all alone; she had no idea how her master and senior brothers were faring.


    They must have been very sad after she was struck to death by lightning.

 Chapter 22: New Year鈥檚 Eve Knocking on the Door

    Chapter 22: Chapter 22: New Year''s Eve Knocking on the Door


    Daye Village was steeped in the flavor of the New Year.


    Starting from the twenty-third of the last lunar month, every household began to clean and prepare for the worship of the Kitchen God.


    In the pot boiled the sweet and rich molasses, filling the house with an un-dissipating sweetness.


    Sweet cakes were placed on the table, and biting into one would release the bean paste filling into the mouth.


    It was said this was to bribe the Kitchen God, to seal his mouth with honey so that when he reported to the Heavenly Court, he could only speak well and not complain.


    Yue Qingqing, too, was fed a small bite of molasses by Zhang Ying with chopsticks, the sweetness causing her eyes to squint into slits, and the slight melancholy in her heart instantly vanished.


    The following days were perfect for visiting the market, and Yue Jiandong took Yue Qingqing with him to the marketplace.


    In the past two years, buying things had become much freer, with less need for coupons, and enthusiasm for trading had greatly increased.


    Yue Qingqing was dazzled as she looked around, wishing her eyes could stick to the colorful stalls.


    At this time, stalls selling Spring Festival couplets and cakes were the most popular.


    Despite the same old phrases of fortune, longevity, wealth, and happiness written on them, which many villagers might not even understand, it didn''t hinder their enthusiasm for buying couplets.


    As Zhang Ying said, these were customs passed down by the ancestors, ensuring a good year and prospering in the next.


    Yue Jiandong, who could read, picked out an auspicious couplet.


    The first line read, "Sailing winds bring perpetual prosperity," and the second, "Every endeavor raises you higher," with "Fortune Shines Above" as the horizontal inscription.@@@@


    Lin Chunju had always said Yue Qingqing was the little lucky star of the family, and this couplet caught Yue Jiandong''s eye at first glance.


    Finally, Yue Jiandong also bought some firecrackers and fireworks from the stall at the entrance.


    These were to be set off on New Year''s Eve, as it was said the louder the noise, the more you sweep away the bad luck, leading to a smoother coming year.


    On the evening of New Year''s Eve, the Yue Family gathered around the table.


    The three men had neatly groomed their hair and looked exceptionally spirited.


    The women also bound their braids with bright ribbons, which under the bright firelight in the house, added a bit more charm.


    The table had more meat dishes than in past years, looking exceedingly abundant.


    Yue Jiannan had been swallowing saliva since the afternoon when the enticing smell wafted from the stove.


    "Time to eat dumplings," Lin Chunju said as she scooped them out of the pot with a large slotted spoon.


    The dumplings were stuffed full, looking like little ingots with their plump bellies.


    "Alright, let''s eat."


    Lin Chunju symbolically picked up a chopstickful of vegetables, and then everyone began to eat.


    Just then, a knock sounded at the door.


    The noise was light, but the people inside heard it instantly.


    Yue Jiannan frowned and muttered quietly, "Who would come during the New Year''s festival?"


    Everyone fell silent, and the sound from outside became clearer¡ªit was the intermittent sound of crying.

 Chapter 23: The Daughter鈥檚 Return

    Chapter 23: Chapter 23: The Daughter''s Return


    On the night of Chinese New Year''s Eve, an inexplicable cry came from outside the house.


    Yue Jiannan held his chopsticks without daring to move, his arms covered with goosebumps.


    Mom, the more he thought about it, the more unsettling it felt.


    Lin Chunju glanced at Yue Qingqing, who was being held by Zhang Ying, making sure her granddaughter was fine before boldly speaking up.


    "I''ll go open the door and see what''s going on."


    Yue Jiandong stood up first, "Mom, I''ll go."@@@@


    The door opened, and the dry, cold wind from outside whooshed into the room, as a young woman with swollen eyes stood outside.


    "Brother!"


    Like finding her mainstay, the woman stumbled into the house.


    Yue Jiandong hurried to catch her, "Xiaofang, you... why have you come home on New Year''s Eve."


    Lin Chunju abruptly stood up.


    The visitor was none other than her daughter, who had already been married off.


    Yue Jianxi quickly went to close the door; Yue Jiannan rushed over and used his sleeve to wipe away Yue Xiaofang''s tears.


    "Sister, what happened? Did you come back alone?"


    As soon as this was said, Yue Xiaofang''s tears threatened to fall again.


    But she lifted her head, clumsily wiping her cheeks dry with the back of her hand.


    "Alright, food is the most important thing during the New Year, and it''s good that Xiaofang came back for it; let''s all enjoy a good family gathering."


    Lin Chunju ladled some dumplings into her daughter''s bowl.


    The Yue family tried to eat as merrily as if nothing had happened, with Yue Jiannan cracking jokes on the side and occasionally making everyone laugh.


    Yue Jianxi gloomily offered food to his sister.


    Yue Xiaofang remarked in surprise, "Home seems much more abundant this New Year than before."


    Yue Jiandong laughed, "We were lucky to get paid for a digging job a few months back, organized by the village."


    Yue Xiaofang gasped in alarm, "I heard that the digging collapsed halfway through, brother, you weren''t hurt, were you?"


    The family hastily reassured her, explaining everything that had happened.


    Only then did Yue Xiaofang relax, repeatedly expressing relief, "Thank goodness, it''s good that Qingqing is such a lucky star."


    Seeing her daughter begin to relax, Lin Chunju gave her eldest son a look.


    Yue Jiandong understood, "Sister, let me pour you a glass of water."


    He picked up the bowl of water from the table and, as though accidentally, splashed some out onto his sleeve.


    "Such a big person and still so clumsy."


    Lin Chunju feigned scolding, rolling up her daughter''s sleeve to wipe it.


    Yue Xiaofang wanted to stop her but was too late. As the sleeve was pushed higher, it revealed a mass of densely packed bruises, some old and faded, others clearly new.


    A single glance was enough to send shivers down one''s spine.

 Chapter 24: Covered in Scars

    Chapter 24: Chapter 24: Covered in Scars


    The wounds could no longer be hidden.


    No further questions were needed, everyone understood why Yue Xiaofang had come back on New Year''s Eve.


    The snow outside was so heavy; anyone returning to their parent''s home in such weather must have endured severe beating.


    The most honest Yue Jianxi trembled with anger, "Ma Jinbao that beast, he actually laid hands on you."


    Her sister had chosen this husband herself.


    People in the village generally sought brides from families with some wealth, at the very least, a bride who wouldn''t be a burden.


    With three sons in the Yue Family, everyone feared Lin Chunju would demand a triple dowry, making it harder for the sons to find wives.


    They also worried that because of the poor condition of the Yue family, Yue Xiaofang might dig into her husband''s family to support her own people.


    Thus, even though Yue Xiaofang was beautiful and capable, no matchmakers had come calling.


    It was only when Ma Jinbao from a neighboring village happened to visit and saw Yue Xiaofang that he claimed to have fallen for her at first sight and eagerly sent someone to propose.


    Lin Chunju did not like Ma Jinbao.


    She felt that although he spoke nicely, his eyes were always sizing up everything inside and out of the Yue Family, revealing his calculating nature.


    Yet, Yue Xiaofang agreed.


    She felt that as a daughter, once she came of age, she would become water that had been thrown out and needed to make space for future sisters-in-law.


    Despite repeated persuasions from the three brothers of the Yue Family, Yue Xiaofang insisted on marrying herself off to Ma Jinbao, the only suitor who came forward.


    To be beaten to the point of fleeing back home showed how much she had suffered.


    Yue Jiannan moved to a corner to pick up a hoe, "I''m going to fight him right now."


    This time it was not only him, even Yue Jianxi rolled up his sleeves, eager to rush to the Ma Family immediately.


    "We definitely need to go, but we must find out the full story and plan carefully before we go. What''s the use of rushing over there like hotheaded youths?"


    Lin Chunju hugged her daughter, letting Yue Xiaofang cry her heart out.


    The sounds of sobbing echoed around the room as Yue Xiaofang wished she could pour out all her grievances.


    The three grown men of the Yue Family''s chests heaved with breaths, their hatred for Ma Jinbao reaching its peak.


    He was the one who came and promised to treat Xiaofang well, and it was also he who had beaten her to a bruised and battered state on New Year''s Eve.


    He truly was a beast!


    After Lin Chunju felt her daughter had cried enough, she took a handkerchief, gently wiped her face, and led her back to her room.


    Zhang Ying and Wang Xiaoni also went along with her.


    Yue Xiaofang bit her lower lip and stripped off her clothes. Only then did the women see the various scars covering her entire body, with horrifying marks even on her thighs and around her waist.


    Zhang Ying, whose heart was the softest, burst into tears.


    "How could Ma Jinbao treat you like this?"


    Yue Xiaofang bowed her head low, "It''s not just him, my mother-in-law and sister-in-law have also hit me."

 Chapter 25 - 25 No Way Out

    Chapter 25: Chapter 25 No Way Out


    Yue Xiaofang changed into her mother''s clean clothes and sat on the bed, staring blankly at the ground.


    She sighed, "Mom, I really regret not listening to you back then."


    In fact, the Ma family had a bad reputation in the village, and Ma Jinbao''s mother¡ªLi Zhaozdi¡ªwas known in the village as a gossipy woman who always liked to stir up trouble among neighbors.


    Ma Jinbao''s father was taciturn, and the household was practically ruled by Li Zhaozdi''s word, with Ma Jinbao always following his mother''s arrangements without question.


    When they married Xiaofang, half of it was also arranged by his mother.


    What they valued was Xiaofang''s gentle nature, not a daughter-in-law who dared to talk back to her mother-in-law in the village.


    Xiaofang had hastily married herself off without understanding these matters clearly.


    When she first married into the Ma family, because of the generous dowry, aside from throwing all the work her way, the family hadn''t done anything too outrageous.


    Xiaofang, diligent and hardworking, didn''t fuss over these things.


    Once the Ma family used Xiaofang''s dowry to lease the Fruit Orchard, Xiaofang was even more dedicated to her responsibilities, often working from before dawn until after dusk before returning home.


    But as the Ma family gradually prospered, Li Zhaozdi began to dislike Xiaofang even more.


    She often whispered in Ma Jinbao''s ear that Xiaofang''s family was poor and couldn''t offer any help, and felt that Ma Jinbao was too good to his wife, worried that he might end up under her thumb in the future.


    Because of the work in the Fruit Orchard, Xiaofang, exposed to the sun and wind, gradually lost her former beauty.


    There could actually be such a family in the world.


    Zhang Ying and Wang Xiaoni cried until they looked like tearful messes.


    Lin Chunju, frustrated, said, "Why didn''t you speak up earlier? Every time you came, you were always dressed so tightly, even in summer, I always felt something was off!"


    Otherwise, they wouldn''t have let her eldest son perform today to test the waters.


    Zhang Ying sobbed, "The Ma family must have thought your parents'' house wouldn''t care about you, that''s why they went to such extremes. Any woman with brothers at her parents'' home wouldn''t have been bullied like this."


    Xiaofang was both embarrassed and ashamed, "It''s my fault; I can''t stand up for myself, and still have to worry mom and my sisters-in-law."


    If it weren''t for her son in her arms, Wang Xiaoni would want to go to the kitchen, grab a kitchen knife, and fight with the Ma family to the death.


    "What are you talking about? It''s always said that the merciful get bullied, you''re just too good-natured."


    Lin Chunju banged the table, "We''ll go to the Ma family tomorrow, mom will help you get a divorce!"


    Xiaofang went pale with shock, "Divorce?"


    She dared not reveal the truth to her family, fearing that the Ma family would send her back to her parents'' house.


    Yue''s family was already poor, and with her as another mouth to feed, it would be even harder.


    Moreover... moreover, how many women abandoned by their in-laws could have a good outcome?

 Chapter 26 - 26 Going to Settle Accounts Together

    Chapter 26: Chapter 26 Going to Settle Accounts Together


    Yue Qingqing could probably guess what her grandmother meant by "divorce"¡ªit was the "he li" from her era.


    Mortals could go through "he li," and among cultivators who pursued their own desires, there wasn''t even the pretense of a formal relationship.


    People stayed together happily, and when things weren''t to their liking, they naturally parted.


    To practitioners, a cultivation partner was merely a comfort along the path of cultivation, never something that those who sought the path to immortality would regard highly.


    Therefore, she couldn''t understand Yue Xiaofang''s anxiety.


    Lin Chunju patted her daughter''s hand, "Don''t worry, the world is a better place now, men can live without women, and women can also leave men. The Ma Family has tormented you so much, and we''re not to be trifled with either."


    Yue Xiaofang wanted to say more, but Zhang Ying couldn''t help frowning.


    "Xiaofang, you''ve only been married for a few years, look at how tormented you''ve become. His family clearly wants to wear you down to death. If something happens to you, what am I supposed to do?"


    Yue Xiaofang hung her head, finally making up her mind.


    "Mother, I''ll listen to you, as long as you don''t mind me clinging to our home eventually."


    Lin Chunju embraced her, "Silly child, I would only mind if you kept everything bottled up like a tightly sealed gourd. Even a child who falls knows to cry, but you don''t tell your mother anything."


    Zhang Ying and Wang Xiaoni also kept wiping away tears, hugging and crying together for a while.


    After they had consoled each other and made their plans, they all sat together in the outer room to keep vigil for the New Year.


    Wang Xiaoni added, "She''s our little lucky star too."


    Yue Jiannan then told about the ginseng, and when Yue Xiaofang heard that the family had made so much money, she also shared in their joy.


    Lin Chunju said, "Now you know, the Yue Family''s life is much better than before, even if you come back home, your mother can support you."


    The guilt and unease in Yue Xiaofang''s heart finally eased somewhat.


    They were supposed to keep vigil, but with a trip to the neighboring village the next day, the Yue Family decided to go to sleep one after another.


    Even soldiers going into battle first got a good night''s sleep.


    In the morning, everyone got up early. The aroma from the kitchen wafted through the air, and upon seeing such a familiar scene, Yue Xiaofang almost cried.


    There''s no place like home, however poor, it was warm.


    After a hearty breakfast and packing some dry food, Lin Chunju led the family out, like a general leading her troops.


    Only Wang Xiaoni was left at home to take care of Yue Xingxing and Yue Xiaohu.


    Yue Xiaofang asked in surprise, "Is Qingqing also coming with us?"


    The Ma Family was always unreasonable, and it was uncertain what would happen next, and if Qingqing got hurt, she would be to blame.


    Lin Chunju carefully wrapped Yue Qingqing in a small blanket, adjusted her little bear hat, and made sure she was protected from the wind before replying.


    "If I didn''t bring Qingqing with us, I wouldn''t feel at ease at all."

 Chapter 27 - 27 A Halo of Light

    Chapter 27: Chapter 27 A Halo of Light


    ```


    The village where Ma Jinbao''s family lived was called Jinshan Village, which was closer to the town than Daye Village.


    Compared to the muddy mountain paths of Daye Village, the roads in Jinshan Village were noticeably smoother, and one could even see donkey carts loaded with goods on ordinary days, were it not for the New Year.


    Though both were villages, the people of Jinshan Village always felt superior to those from Daye Village.


    This was evident from the Ma Family''s arrogant attitude towards Yue Xiaofang.


    Along the way, Lin Chunju and the others discussed their strategy.


    "Although we are in the right, we are still not from their village, so it would be best to find someone respected in the village to uphold justice first."


    Zhang Ying said with concern, "Mother, people tend to be protective of their own, even if Xiaofang says the Ma Family isn''t well-liked in the village, what if they bully us as outsiders and take Ma Jinbao''s side?"


    Lin Chunju was also worried about this, but could only speculate, "Let''s see how it goes. I''ve heard that the village chief of Jinshan Village is a decent person, not biased, and he''s an old acquaintance of Chief Zhang."


    Even though she said this, there were inherent prejudices between the villages, and despite their fierce arrival, they were not very confident.


    The Yue Family men always doted on their wives; in their mind, a man who lays a hand on a woman is no man at all.


    But this didn''t prevent the prevalent attitude of bossing around wives in most of the surrounding families.@@@@


    Only if a woman was beaten to death might someone intervene.


    If she had even a breath left, no one would bother to ask.


    "I''m fine. It''s just that Qingqing, so young, has to suffer because of me."


    Lin Chunju carried the child higher and said irritably, "Qingqing is much warmer than you; her constitution is better. Look what they did to you."


    Yue Qingqing also cooperated by showing a smile.


    Having cultivated for more than half a year, even though Spiritual Energy was scarce in this world, with the help of Innate Qi, she had developed some Cultivation Base.


    She could not only shroud her body in Spiritual Energy to fend off the cold but also concentrate it in her eyes to see farther and higher.


    Wait, what''s that halo of light up ahead?


    Yue Qingqing immediately began pointing excitedly in the direction of the glow.


    "Is there something over there?" Lin Chunju whispered in a voice so low that only the two of them could hear.


    Yue Qingqing nodded lightly and pointed again with a cry.


    Children of little more than half a year sometimes have strange behaviors, and although Yue Xiaofang saw this gesture, she didn''t think much of it.


    But Lin Chunju turned her head and decisively said, "Let''s go check it out."


    Yue Jiannan was confused and said, "This road is surrounded by wasteland, there''s nothing interesting to see. Let''s just hurry to Jinshan Village."


    Lin Chunju, however, paid him no heed and headed straight in the direction Yue Qingqing had pointed; the Yue Family had no choice but to follow.


    ```

 Chapter 28: Saving People is Important

    Chapter 28: Chapter 28: Saving People is Important


    ```


    The road is usually frequented by people and donkey carts, so the snow doesn''t seem too thick.


    However, the snow in the wasteland on either side of the road has accumulated for who knows how long, and when you step into it, there''s a feeling of stepping into emptiness, as if there''s no bottom.


    "Mom, I''ll go ahead and clear the path for you; you just follow my footprints," said Jiandong.


    Yue Jiandong probed the path, the thick snow reaching his knees, making every step extremely difficult.


    Yue Jianxi and Yue Jiannan followed closely behind, trying to pack down the snow to make it easier for the women behind them to cross.


    Lin Chunju asked Yue Xiaofang to stay on the road.


    "The snow is too thick; you''re weak, stay here and wait for us," she said.


    Jiannan couldn''t help complaining, "Mom, you used to beat me for going to the barren hills. Today, on such an important occasion, why must we walk into the wasteland? Is there gold buried here?"


    If she weren''t holding her granddaughter, Lin Chunju would have smacked him on the head.


    "Less nonsense, just move forward," she snapped.


    So Jiannan had no choice but to grumble quietly to himself as we watched the path.


    Around the wasteland, some irregular trees grew, all of them quite old.


    After shedding their leaves, only the thick branches were left, covered with a layer of silver white.


    After several minutes of silent walking, just when Jiannan was about to start complaining again, Jiandong suddenly shouted.


    "There''s someone behind the tree, and they''re hurt!"


    Only then did everyone notice, amidst a few trees, an elderly man in a green military coat lay in the snow, part of his leg buried in it.


    Around him were sporadic brownish bloodstains which burnt several holes into the white snow.


    Zhang Ying, anxious, said, "Otherwise, let''s leave a few people to look after him here, while the rest go find someone in Jinshan Village. Ask a hunter from the village to bring tools for the rescue?"


    "He won''t last, he might die any minute now," someone objected.


    With saving a life being paramount, Jiandong gritted his teeth and attempted to pry the trap open.


    The sharpened spikes cut through the palm of his hand, and his blood flowed along.


    Jiandong was already very strong, but he couldn''t open the clamp completely.


    Seeing this, Jianxi also helped out, each of them holding one side of the trap, straining with all their might.


    The dripping blood hit the ground, and as Chunju looked on with distress, she didn''t stop them.


    After all, they were saving a human life.


    With a snap, the bottom spring finally gave way, and the iron clamp fell helplessly to the sides.


    "Thank you... thank you," said the old man.


    His white hair was tousled by the wind as he struggled to rise.


    But the leg that had been trapped was powerless, and in the end, Jiandong had to stabilize him.


    Seeing this, Chunju decided to change the plan, "Eldest son, second son, quickly take this man home first; we''ll follow the original path to Jinshan Village."


    Jiannan protested anxiously, "But if big brother and second brother don''t go to support us, the Ma family will definitely not back down. What if they start something in front of us again?"


    He knew he was not physically strong, not a match for Ma Jinbao, and his mother and sister-in-law were even less capable.


    The old man being supported by Jiandong suddenly looked up.


    "That''s perfect, I''m also from Jinshan Village. You can take me there on your way; it won''t delay anything," he said.


    ```

 Chapter 29: Meeting in the Village

    Chapter 29: Chapter 29: Meeting in the Village


    "Since we were both headed to Jinshan Village, things just got easier."


    He had only taken a few steps and had not yet reached the main road when the elderly man stumbled and nearly fell to the ground.


    Yue Jiandong touched the man''s neck and immediately understood.


    "He''s been frozen for too long in the snowstorm, and he''s lost too much blood. His body temperature is dangerously low now."


    Lin Chunju thought for a moment, "Both of you move fast. Carry him to the village first. We''ll follow slowly behind. Oh right, the third one should go too¡ªthree men can take better care of each other."


    All three nodded. Yue Jiandong took off his thick coat and motioned for the elderly man to lie on it.


    "How can this work with so much snow?"


    The elderly man repeatedly shook his head, but Yue Jiandong settled him on the coat without further discussion.


    "I''ll be fine. I''ll be too hot when I start running."


    He and Yue Jianxi each grabbed an end, pulled together, and lifted the elderly man.


    "I know a shortcut. We can take that route to get there faster, but it''s not very stable. Big sister and your daughter-in-law should stick to the main road."


    Lin Chunju nodded. The Yue brothers carried the elderly man toward the shortcut, and Yue Jiannan wrapped the man''s military coat tightly around him.


    "Mom, we''ll take the elder to the village. You go ahead."


    "Okay!" Lin Chunju agreed crisply, holding Yue Qingqing as they walked outside.


    The elder kept talking, "Are you from Daye Village? From what I heard, you''re standing up for a daughter who married out?"


    Although Yue Jiandong had saved the man, he was cautious and did not say much, only giving a noncommittal hum.


    Realizing his wariness, the elderly man introduced himself, "My name is Ma Baoguo, and my family has been in Jinshan Village for generations."


    Yue Jiannan frowned, "You''re also a Ma? What is your relation to Ma Jinbao?"


    Ma Baoguo explained, "The Ma surname is prominent in our village. Many people share it, and it''s said that we all descend from the same clan. But in modern times, there''s no real connection anymore, aside from the surname."


    The three men exchanged glances, their worries deepening.


    Since they were originally from the same clan, tied by shared blood, seeking justice for their sister would be even more difficult.


    Apparently unaware of their concerns, the elder continued.


    "As for Ma Jinbao, I''ve heard of him too. Not a good man. You must be Yue Xiaofang''s family, right?"


    Yue Jiandong nodded, "Yes, we are her brothers."


    The elderly man looked at Yue Jiandong, who was only wearing a shirt, sighed as if he wanted to say more, but Yue Jiandong stopped him.


    "Elder, please don''t talk now. Save your strength. We need to focus on the road; it would be troublesome if we took the wrong path."


    The elderly man had no choice but to remain silent, his gaze shifting to the brothers'' palms, still stained with blood.


    They had been cut several times while rescuing him, yet they each held onto the coat, tirelessly carrying him home.


    So, this was the family of Yue Xiaofang?

 Chapter 30: A Narrow Encounter

    Chapter 30: Chapter 30: A Narrow Encounter


    In Jinshan Village, the Ma Family had only lazily gotten out of bed.


    Li Zhaodi went to the back kitchen and saw the messy bowls and chopsticks around the stove, and couldn''t help but curse.


    "Haven''t seen a ghost shadow all night, might as well be dead outside."


    Ma Jinbao was anxious and a bit scared, "Mother, should we go out and look for her? What if something happened?"


    Li Zhaodi scornfully said, "What could happen? Her guts are smaller than the tip of a needle. Is she daring enough to run back to her mother''s home? Besides, that shabby family of hers, hmph."


    Compared to worrying about Yue Xiaofang, Li Zhaodi was more troubled about what to do with the pile of dishes.


    Ever since a diligent and easy-to-handle daughter-in-law came into the family, she essentially became a person of leisure, leaving all the chores for Yue Xiaofang while her own lazy habits were already cultivated.


    Ma Cuicui, yawning, came over, "Mom, I''m hungry. Why isn''t the food ready yet?"


    "Eat, eat, eat, that''s all you know. With Yue Xiaofang cursed and gone, who''s going to cook?" Li Zhaodi glanced at her daughter''s sturdy waist, "You should eat less too, or you''ll have trouble getting married later."


    Ma Cuicui disdainfully said, "Now that our family has money, just add more to the dowry. How could I not get married off?"


    "Who can give their daughter such a large dowry? Do you think I am like that brainless old woman from the Yue family? Besides, you''re such a grown girl; you should do some work. Wash these dishes."


    Ma Cuicui was displeased, "I won''t. Let Yue Xiaofang clean them when she gets back."


    The two pushed back and forth, neither willing to do the work.


    Once they found her, they would put her to work first and then beat her.


    This time, they would surely beat Yue Xiaofang so badly that she would be unable to get out of bed for days, and she would never dare to run away again.


    Ma Jinbao actually had some concerns, "Mother, you hit her too hard last time, no one should really be pouring boiling oil into someone''s mouth."


    Li Zhaodi awkwardly replied, "I was just scaring her a bit. Can''t a mother-in-law lay down the rules for her daughter-in-law?"


    "Let''s not be so heavy-handed after we find her this time."


    Li Zhaodi spat, "Really, marrying a wife and forgetting your mother. What now? Feeling pity for her? Your mother struggled her whole life, and at this age, I still have to put up with your complaints."


    "It''s mainly because if she''s hurt, there''ll be no one to do the work." Ma Jinbao, who feared his mother''s anger the most, quickly said, "I misspoke, don''t be angry, let''s go find her first."


    Only then did Li Zhaodi set her face and went out with her son.


    All this time, Ma Zhuzi, who should have been the head of the family, simply sat at the doorstep, puffing on his dry pipe.


    He watched his son and wife leave without saying a word.


    Just as they reached the entrance of the village, Li Zhaodi and Ma Jinbao happened to bump into Lin Chunju and her two companions.


    Lin Chunju had originally planned to wait for her son before going to the Ma family together.


    Meeting on this narrow path, seeing Li Zhaodi''s deeply wrinkled malevolent face, and thinking of the wounds on her daughter, she couldn''t hold back any longer.


    Lin Chunju placed the child in Zhang Ying''s arms, rolled up her sleeves, and charged forward.

 Chapter 31: Persistent Harassment

    Chapter 31: Chapter 31: Persistent Harassment


    Never underestimate an enraged mother.


    Lin Chunju, like a ferocious beast, pinned Li Zhaodi firmly underneath her.


    Her palm came down heavily, every strike eliciting a scream from Li Zhaodi.


    Li Zhaodi might look sturdy, but it was all flabby flesh she had put on in recent years; she couldn''t muster enough strength to turn over.


    Ma Jinbao didn''t react at first, dumbfounded in place.


    Only when his own mother started screaming like a slaughtered pig did he rush to push Lin Chunju away.


    In the process, Lin Chunju seized the opportunity to land a punch on Li Zhaodi''s face.


    "Ah!"


    Li Zhaodi covered her mouth, and a moment later, spat out half of a broken tooth.


    Lin Chunju stood up, dusting the dirt off her body.


    "Pah, serves you right!"


    With the broken tooth lying in the palm of her hand, Li Zhaodi, shaking, pointed at Lin Chunju and her group, "Beat... beat them."


    Her speech was starting to whistle.


    Ma Jinbao, already seething with rage, raised his foot to viciously kick Lin Chunju.


    Lin Chunju may have been a good fighter among women, but she certainly couldn''t match the strength of a grown man.


    Ma Jinbao didn''t care whether she was his mother-in-law or not; putting his full force into the kick, it would have been unbearable for Lin Chunju at her age had it landed.


    Li Zhaodi, with her mouth covered, grinned maliciously while Zhang Ying wished she could stand in front of Lin Chunju to protect her, but she was holding a child in her arms.


    "No wonder the mother-in-law came to fight with her life on the line, who wouldn''t be angry in this situation?"


    Li Zhaodi shrank her neck and wore a guilty expression but spoke defiantly, "What''s wrong with beating her? If she doesn''t obey, she should be beaten. Should I let her climb onto my neck instead?"


    Lin Chunju coldly said, "Xiaofang has been in the village for quite some time now. Everyone has seen what she''s like. What did she do to deserve your family''s bullying?"


    Yue Xiaofang''s hair was a mess, pulled askew by Ma Jinbao, and her bruises made the villagers too ashamed to protect one of their own.


    "Li Zhaodi, you have to have a conscience. Your daughter-in-law has always been hardworking and uncomplaining, taking on all the household chores. She''s practically been the only one looking after that large fruit orchard, and you still have the heart to beat her?"


    "Exactly, if my daughter-in-law were like that, I''d be smiling so hard my face would crack. I wish I''d had my son seek a matchmaker to propose."


    "Sigh, you still can''t beat someone like this. Ma Jinbao, your wife is good enough."


    Li Zhaodi''s face turned shades of red and green, and with her true colors exposed, she lashed out in desperation.


    "What''s it to you? Mind your own business, you lot are like dogs chasing mice¡ªthis is my family''s affair." She pointed at the men in the crowd who had spoken well of Yue Xiaofang.


    "You''re defending her so much; what is she, your mistress?"


    "You! What nonsense are you talking about?" the man retorted in haste, "I just couldn''t stand by and watch."


    "I''m putting it out there today; this is my daughter-in-law. What we do behind closed doors is family business. Anyone who pokes their nose into it is saying that they''re having an affair with her."


    The people who were indignant just moments ago fell silent.


    It''s said that even honest officials find it hard to settle family disputes. No matter how unreasonable Li Zhaodi''s actions were, they, as outsiders, seemed to have no place to intervene.


    Besides, Li Zhaodi''s words were so unpleasant; where would they dare to get involved and risk getting tainted?


    Seeing that no one spoke up, Li Zhaodi snorted from her nose and pointed at Yue Xiaofang.


    "You think you have backups because your family''s here? Let me tell you, once you married into my family, you became one of us." She commanded Ma Jinbao.


    "Beat her, beat this disobedient bitch to death. Let''s see who dares to stop us today!"

 Chapter 32 - 32 Playing the Blame Game

    Chapter 32: Chapter 32 Playing the Blame Game


    Ma Jinbao, who always obeyed Li Zhaodi¡¯s words, raised his hand and violently slapped toward Yue Xiaofang¡¯s face.@@@@


    Yue Xiaofang had long been frightened by the beatings, and her earlier courage had only arisen from the need to protect her mother.


    Seeing the palm strike coming, she instinctively closed her eyes and raised her hands to protect her head.


    Just at that moment, Ma Jinbao¡¯s wrist was firmly grasped.


    The person¡¯s strength was immense, like a pair of iron pliers, causing Ma Jinbao to cry out in pain involuntarily.


    He feared his wrist would be crushed.


    Yue Jiandong looked down at him from above, his gaze sharp as a knife, causing Ma Jinbao, who tended to bully the weak and fear the strong, to instantly go weak in the knees.


    ¡°Coward, only good at hitting women,¡± Yue Jiandong said as he violently flung away his hand, causing Ma Jinbao to fall to the ground with a thud.


    The three brothers of the Yue Family arrived late to the scene, and Li Zhaodi swallowed her saliva, quietly taking two steps back.


    At that moment, someone shouted, ¡°The village chief is coming!¡±


    The onlookers dispersed, and an ordinary-looking middle-aged man walked into the center of the crowd.


    It was none other than the village chief of Jinshan Village¡ªMa Shulin.


    Lin Chunju¡¯s eyebrows were tightly furrowed, feeling that she had been rather rash in taking action.


    Turning her head, she saw Yue Qingqing giving her a sweet smile.


    Lin Chunju¡¯s mind immediately steadied, yet she didn¡¯t notice her youngest son making faces next to her.


    Li Zhaodi, crying crocodile tears without any consequences, wailed for a while without hearing the village chief speak, feeling embarrassed as if she couldn¡¯t continue the act.


    ¡°Village, Village chief,¡± Ma Cuicui tentatively called out.


    Suddenly, Ma Shulin asked, ¡°Li Zhaodi, you said your daughter-in-law ran out for no reason, then how did she get the injuries on her arm?¡±


    Li Zhaodi sneered, ¡°Who knows how she got them? She¡¯s capable of calling her family over, isn¡¯t she capable of framing me?¡±


    ¡°Did you look closely? The injuries on her arm are both new and old. Yue Xiaofang just returned to her mother¡¯s home last night, how could she have inflicted months-old scars to frame you?¡± he said.


    Li Zhaodi opened her mouth but found herself at a loss for words.


    Ma Cuicui, unwilling to accept this, retorted, ¡°So what? She¡¯s the mother-in-law. What¡¯s wrong with disciplining her daughter-in-law?¡±


    Ma Shulin drawled, ¡°Do you know that in recent years, the country has been cracking down on such behavior? To beat someone like this, you could go to prison.¡±


    Upon hearing this, the three members of the Ma Family shuddered, growing fearful.


    Go to prison? Surely it couldn¡¯t be that serious.

 Chapter 33 - 33 Household Matters

    Chapter 33: Chapter 33 Household Matters


    Ma Cuicui, young as she was, became terrified at the mention of ¡°imprisonment¡± and plopped down on the ground.


    ¡°I won¡¯t go to jail, I don¡¯t want to go to jail. Mom, it¡¯s all because you always beat Yue Xiaofang. Last night, you even tried to pour hot oil into her mouth, and as for you, brother, you kicked her so hard last time that she couldn¡¯t get up for ages. I... I never hit her that hard.¡±


    The onlookers were all shocked. Were the members of the Ma Family even human? To abuse a daughter-in-law like this, no wonder Yue Xiaofang wore long sleeves and pants regardless of whether it was hot or cold.


    Ma Jinbao was also startled into silence, his lips quivering, unable to make a sound.


    But Li Zhaozhuang, possessing a bit of cunning, retorted with her neck stiff, ¡°Village chief, fighting and going to jail are matters for outsiders, but I¡¯ve never heard of anyone being jailed for hitting their own family.¡±


    ¡°Besides, there are plenty of people in the village who beat their wives. If you¡¯re going to arrest, you¡¯d have to arrest half the village. What¡¯s that saying? Right, ¡®the law does not punish the many.¡¯ You can¡¯t scare me with that.¡±


    Ma Shulin snorted, ¡°Scare you? I¡¯m just stating the facts. They¡¯re not from my Jinshan Village. Why would I go out of my way to scare you because of them?¡±


    And that made sense to everyone. The village chief had no ties to the Yue Family, and as expected, he would naturally side with his own villagers.


    It was just that the Ma Family had gone too far. If hot oil had actually been poured into someone¡¯s mouth, it would have scalded their insides. If someone had died, jail was inevitable. The village chief was right.


    Li Zhaozhuang argued back, ¡°Yes, I beat her, but she¡¯s alive and well right now. The police surely can¡¯t arrest me and put me in jail for that.¡±


    She then repeated her earlier reasoning, ¡°Even a fair official would find it hard to settle household affairs. How I beat my daughter-in-law is my own business, and I won¡¯t beat her to death.¡±


    But what the village chief Ma was waiting for was precisely these words, ¡°So you say this is a domestic affair, and outsiders should not intervene?¡±


    Instinctively feeling something was amiss, but with her daughter and son desperately looking to her for guidance, Li Zhaozhuang decided to stay tough.@@@@


    Lin Chunju sneered, ¡°Dear mother-in-law, let¡¯s consider this part of our domestic affairs, shall we?¡±


    Li Zhaozhuang covered her face, as another tooth started to wobble from the impact.


    Yue Qingqing clenched her small fists tightly within her mother¡¯s embrace, silently cheering on her grandmother.


    A duet of wails from Li Zhaozhuang and Ma Jinbao echoed under the skies of Jinshan Village, yet the listeners were unmoved.


    She was a precious maiden who had married into your family from another village, and this is how you treat her?


    Pah, serves you right!


    Ma Cuicui trembled uncontrollably to the side, not daring to step in. In the confusion, she didn¡¯t even know who had kicked her twice, but her ribs throbbed painfully.


    Ma Shulin said indifferently, ¡°Your own people are human beings, and others are not? Since you say that not killing them counts as a domestic affair, then settle it amongst yourselves. I can¡¯t interfere either.¡±


    After a while, Li Zhaozhuang and Ma Jinbao had been beaten until they were barely breathing, their bodies curled up on the ground like shrimps.


    Yue Jiandong stopped his beating and looked at his sister.


    ¡°Xiaofang, every debt has its debtor. Whatever humiliation they put you through, now it¡¯s time they tasted the same.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang stared blankly at the two of them; the memory of being tormented replayed vividly in her mind.


    They were like demons, instilling fear in her, making her afraid to resist.


    As Yue Xiaofang approached step by step, the two trembled all over; Ma Jinbao, wiping the blood from his face, begged in a low voice.


    ¡°Xiaofang, we¡¯ve shared a marriage for years; I know I was wrong. Please, just let me and Mom go.¡±

 Chapter 34 - 34 Sudden News

    Chapter 34: Chapter 34 Sudden News


    Yue Xiaofang had been sheltered and raised by the three Yue brothers since she was a child, her personality so gentle that it could even be described as timid.


    Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t have been bullied to such an extent.


    She stood in front of Ma Jinbao, staring straight at him, yet she did not make a move.


    ¡°Sister, don¡¯t be soft-hearted, have you forgotten how he bullied you?¡± Yue Jiandong¡¯s brows were tightly furrowed.


    Ma Shulin sighed inwardly, knowing that if a person does not stand up for themselves, no amount of help from others is of any use.


    But Ma Jinbao¡¯s eyes lit up, ¡°Xiaofang, I will definitely treat you well in the future, it was all my fault before, I... Ah!¡±


    Before he could finish his words, Yue Xiaofang ruthlessly stepped on his face with the sole of her shoe, causing Ma Jinbao¡¯s features to contort in pain.


    ¡°How did I beg you back then? You and your mother beat me until I was covered in blood. I knelt down and begged you to stop, why didn¡¯t you show any mercy then?¡±


    ¡°I would often come back from the Fruit Orchard to find the doors of the house locked, and I could only sleep in the pigsty.¡±


    ¡°Ma Jinbao, people¡¯s hearts are made of flesh, but your family¡¯s hearts must be made of iron. My mother, fearing I would be bullied, emptied our savings for my dowry, and this is how your family treats me?¡±


    Yue Xiaofang still did not feel relieved, and fiercely kicked Ma Jinbao twice more.


    ¡°Uncle is named Ma Baoguo, and it turns out he¡¯s the village chief¡¯s father. We only found out after we brought him there.¡±


    Lin Chunju then came to a realization. Everyone has their biases, and it was unlikely the village chief of Jinshan Village would take their side.


    However, after Ma Shulin arrived, although he seemed to not take sides, he cleared many obstacles for them and even taught Ma Jinbao and his mother a lesson.


    So there was this relationship involved.


    Yue Jiannan lowered his voice, ¡°When we brought him there, the village chief was so grateful, thanking us a thousand times. That¡¯s when we learned that uncle planned to fish in the river by the wasteland this morning.¡±


    Despite the cold weather freezing the river surface solid, there was still a layer of flowing water beneath. By breaking an ice hole, it was possible to actually catch a few fish from underneath.


    Yue Jiannan couldn¡¯t help but admire his uncle¡¯s leisurely pursuit, it was just unfortunate that he accidentally stepped into a hunter¡¯s trap. Had it not been for them, he would have likely met his demise there that day.


    ¡°Mother, I think with the village chief¡¯s help, sister can definitely get a divorce,¡± said Jiannan.


    Lin Chunju nodded absentmindedly, ¡°But right now, the most important thing is what exactly happened to Xiaofang, how could she just faint out of the blue?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s probably because she was too emotional, she should be fine,¡± said Jiannan, ever the optimist.


    However, after arriving at the medical room and conducting a thorough examination, the conclusion reached left everyone shocked.


    No one had expected that Yue Xiaofang was actually pregnant.

 Chapter 35 - 35 Yue Xiaofang鈥檚 Decision

    Chapter 35: Chapter 35 Yue Xiaofang¡¯s Decision


    After hearing the verdict of the village doctor, Yue Qingqing sighed in her heart.


    When she first saw Yue Xiaofang, the latter was enshrouded in a gray haze with a hint of milky white within it.


    That belonged to the aura of the fetus in her womb.


    During this time, Yue Qingqing had come to understand this world as well.


    Resources were scarce, and survival was tough.


    Women whose husbands had died found it extremely difficult to live on in such times, not only because of the material conditions but even more so due to the idle gossip and sneering of others.


    Lin Chunju¡¯s husband died saving someone, yet she was still called a husband-killer, not to mention those whose husbands died of illness.


    And those women who were sent back home by their husbands were in an even worse situation; women weren¡¯t considered labor force, and their birth families usually weren¡¯t very welcoming.


    Even if there was a family that adored their daughter and took her in, the rumors and gossip from the outside world would prevent the family from holding their heads high.


    As for those who returned home with their child after getting a divorce, Yue Qingqing had never heard of such a case.


    You could get a divorce, but the child had to stay with the husband¡¯s family.


    Now that both families had completely fallen out, yet the child in Yue Xiaofang¡¯s womb had become an uncertainty, would the Ma Family really be willing to let Yue Xiaofang go home?


    The most important thing was, what did Yue Xiaofang think?


    Yue Xiaofang woke up from her unconscious state to find herself lying on the hard bed of the medical office.


    Lin Chunju gently placed her hand on her daughter¡¯s lower abdomen, ¡°Don¡¯t get agitated; you¡¯re carrying a child now.¡±


    The warmth from her mother¡¯s palm, through her clothes, finally made Yue Xiaofang realize she didn¡¯t hear wrongly.


    ¡°There¡¯s a baby inside me?¡±


    It must have been that night two months ago when Ma Jinbao came home drunk, venting his bestial lusts on her in the middle of the night. Yue Xiaofang didn¡¯t dare to resist and could only silently weep in the darkness.


    But unexpectedly, it was that disgusting experience that led to her becoming pregnant.


    Yue Xiaofang had always wanted a child; she had dreamt of it, always feeling that if she had a child, the Ma Family wouldn¡¯t bully her like this.


    More importantly, she genuinely loved children.


    She would, like her mother, carefully raise her child, teach him many lessons, and sing him to sleep.


    Just thinking about it, Yue Xiaofang couldn¡¯t help but cry, burying her face in her hands and sobbing.


    Yue Jianxi¡¯s thoughts weren¡¯t as intricate, and he whispered persuasively, ¡°Xiaofang, this child isn¡¯t coming at a good time; we should still go to the hospital in the city...¡±


    Before he could finish, Lin Chunju cut him off.


    ¡°Don¡¯t listen to your second brother spouting nonsense; this child is yours, and it should be up to you to decide.¡±


    After crying for a while, Zhang Ying borrowed a towel from the medical staff and wrung it out for her to wipe her face.


    Yue Xiaofang cleaned her cheeks, sniffled, her eyes still red.


    ¡°Mom, I¡¯ve made up my mind,¡± Yue Xiaofang resolved, gingerly cradling her stomach with her hands, ¡°This child, I want to keep it.¡±

 Chapter 36: Just Be More Generous

    Chapter 36: Chapter 36: Just Be More Generous


    Mother knows her daughter best, Lin Chunju could actually guess what her daughter¡¯s decision would be.


    But to hear her say it out loud, she could not help but sigh.


    ¡°Xiaofang, although Mom respects your decision, I hope you think it through, raising a child isn¡¯t that simple, especially with the Ma Family...¡±@@@@


    As she was speaking, the people arrived, and a messy commotion came from outside the clinic.


    Li Zhaozhi was really like a cockroach that couldn¡¯t be killed¡ªjust moments ago she had been at death¡¯s door, but upon hearing that Yue Xiaofang was pregnant, she got back up again. Not only that, she even brought the whole family over.


    For fear of trouble, Ma Shulin and others stopped them outside, but they couldn¡¯t stop their voices from coming through.


    ¡°Xiaofang, this child is the Ma Family¡¯s seed, you must keep it, otherwise... otherwise I¡¯ll go to Daye Village and smash my head to death at your mother¡¯s house.¡±


    The sharp voice grated on her eardrums, and Lin Chunju¡¯s eyes suddenly flashed with murderous intent.


    ¡°Do it! Do it now.¡±


    Seeing Lin Chunju charging to the doorway, Li Zhaozhi panicked, covering her mouth, fearful that even her remaining teeth might be destroyed.


    Ma Jinbao¡¯s face was a mix of blue and purple, swollen as if he had been stung by wasps.


    ¡°Wife, it was all my fault before. I shouldn¡¯t have hit you; it was my mistake, please forgive me.¡±


    He hurried forward a few steps into the room and dropped to his knees with a thud, lifting his arm to slap his own face.


    The smacking sound echoed in the room, each slap louder than the last.


    The female village doctor couldn¡¯t help but intervene, ¡°Xiaofang, what¡¯s the dispute between you and Ma Jinbao? Between husband and wife, a fight at bed-head leads to a reconciliation at bed-foot. Now that you¡¯re pregnant again, why not go home with him?¡±


    Ma Jinbao had been husband and wife with Yue Xiaofang for a few years after all. Seeing the signs, he followed the lead and crawled on his knees a few steps toward Yue Xiaofang.


    He began to knock his head down with a thudding sound.


    ¡°Xiaofang, I will definitely treat you and the child well in the future.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang did not utter a word, when an unexpected person was dragged in by Li Zhaozhi.


    It was Ma Jinbao¡¯s father¡ªMa Zhuzi.


    Ma Zhuzi still had his usual honest appearance, hunching his back, holding a smoking pipe in his hand.


    ¡°Xiaofang, I know you¡¯ve been wronged, the Ma Family owes you an apology, but I¡¯ve never laid a finger on you, you have to admit that.¡±


    Ma Zhuzi took a breath, his honest-to-goodness demeanor unavoidably evoking a hint of sympathy.


    ¡°After all, you are spouses, and now Jinbao has realized his mistake, why don¡¯t you be magnanimous and forgive him?¡±


    Seeing Yue Xiaofang still silent, he slapped Li Zhaozhi without preamble.


    ¡°Apologize to Xiaofang!¡±


    Li Zhaozhi, holding her face, did not dare to show any temper and bowed her head lower and lower.


    ¡°I was wrong, I deserve to die, I won¡¯t dare again.¡±


    She was in tears, but Yue Xiaofang still did not lift her head.


    Finally, Ma Zhuzi could not hold back, ¡°Alright, the fault of the son is the father¡¯s failing. Since you still harbor resentment, I¡¯ll kneel in Ma Jinbao¡¯s place and apologize to you.¡±


    As he spoke, his knees softened, and he was about to kneel down.

 Chapter 37: Be a Witness

    Chapter 37: Chapter 37: Be a Witness


    Ma Zhuzi, being an elder, would make the Yue Family seem unreasonable even with a just cause if he were truly to kneel in front of everyone.


    Yue Jiandong fiercely used the top of his foot to block his knee and, with both hands, lifted Ma Zhuzi and held him in place.


    Lin Chunju coldly said, ¡°Stop disgusting us with such tactics. Is this how you admit your wrongdoing? It¡¯s clearly forcing Xiaofang to go back.¡±


    ¡°Just one kneel can cancel out the abuse that Xiaofang suffered? Then I will kneel for you too, and you can come and beat up Li Zhaozhi every day, can¡¯t you?¡±


    Li Zhaozhi, startled, couldn¡¯t help but step back, and that¡¯s when the surrounding people started to see clearly.


    They had previously thought Yue Xiaofang to be heartless, but on second thought, wasn¡¯t the Ma Family just putting on an act and using this method to coerce Yue Xiaofang?


    If the father-in-law really knelt to his daughter-in-law, how could Yue Xiaofang continue to face others?


    Yue Jiandong saw clear as day that the most calculating in the Ma Family were not Ma Jinbao and Li Zhaozhi but the seemingly honest and weak Ma Zhuzi.


    He kept saying he never hit his sister, but was he blind when his wife and son were hitting her?


    Wasn¡¯t it just that they wanted to use Xiaofang as a servant without facing a bad reputation?


    A typical case of taking advantage of a situation and still playing the victim.


    A few light words and pretending now tilted the scales among the onlookers; indeed, it was a clever calculation.


    Having been through hardships, Lin Chunju was no pushover, and she asked her daughter softly.


    Yue Jiandong said angrily, ¡°Whether a boy or a girl is born is determined by fate. If my sister gives birth to a girl, are you going to kill the person?¡±


    Li Zhaozhi wanted to speak again, but Ma Zhuzi, seeing trouble, slapped her again.


    ¡°Don¡¯t listen to her nonsense. From now on, the Ma Family will definitely treat Xiaofang sincerely, regardless of whether it¡¯s a boy or a girl; all are progeny of the Ma Family.¡±


    If they didn¡¯t agree, the Yue Family, with their temperament, might forcibly abort the child rather than let Xiaofang return.


    Initially, Lin Chunju brought so much dowry, and the Ma Jinbao family thought they could easily manipulate this mother-in-law. They truly had not expected her to be so intense and fierce, not even Li Zhaozhi could handle her.


    After Ma Zhuzi said these words, Lin Chunju turned to the village chief.


    ¡°Then please be our witness; regardless of whether my daughter gives birth to a boy or a girl, the Ma Family should not mistreat her. That includes in the future, and if I ever find out Xiaofang is being bullied by you, even if it costs me my life, I¡¯ll make sure you suffer.¡±


    Each word seemed to be squeezed through clenched teeth; Ma Jinbao and his mother exchanged glances, feeling a throbbing pain in their bodies.


    ¡°Alright, and not just me, the people of the village will also bear witness; if the Ma Jinbao family acts like animals again, no one will spare them.¡±


    Li Zhaozhi was still somewhat defiant in her heart.


    Even if Lin Chunju was formidable, she was still an outsider to the village.


    Could she control things forever just because she did for a while?


    Once her precious grandson was born, Xiaofang would have no way to escape. When the door was closed, it would still be her decision that mattered.


    As if seeing through her thoughts, Lin Chunju pointed at Ma Jinbao¡¯s family, ¡°An oral agreement won¡¯t suffice. Since you have agreed, swear an oath to the heavens.¡±

 Chapter 38 - 38 Lin Chunju鈥檚 Plan

    Chapter 38: Chapter 38 Lin Chunju¡¯s Plan


    Clearly, the strange occurrences in Daye Village had not yet spread to this area.


    Therefore, upon hearing Lin Chunju¡¯s request, not only was the Ma Jinbao family amused, but also the onlookers.


    In this day and age, superstitions had been debunked, and no one believed that making an oath could come true, as many young men and women carelessly made promises when courting.


    If oaths really could come true, there would be thunder strikes and lightning everyday.


    However, for the sake of the child in Yue Xiaofang¡¯s womb, although it was eerie, Ma Jinbao and his folks still raised their hands to swear.


    ¡°If we mistreat Yue Xiaofang again, let our entire family suffer, may we choke even when drinking water, and may thunder strike us dead!¡±


    Yue Qingqing was surrounded by a weak flow of Spiritual Power, and the Heart-Seeking Curse had taken effect.


    Under the Heavenly Dao, cultivators never dared to make oaths lightly, which is why the Heart-Seeking Curse was also known as the most useless spell.


    Unexpectedly, in this world where Spiritual Energy was weak, it still had this use.


    Yue Xiaofang saw her family off to the edge of the village, both apologetic and reluctant, ¡°Mom, I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯ve let you down.¡±


    Lin Chunju touched her daughter¡¯s cheek, ¡°Go back now, don¡¯t catch a cold. No matter what, mom is always your support, you can come back anytime.¡±


    After this ordeal, the Ma Jinbao family would probably never dare to stop Yue Xiaofang from returning to her parental home again.


    The events of New Year¡¯s Eve ended in a way nobody had anticipated.


    Yue Xiaofang turned back and went to Ma Jinbao¡¯s house, arriving at the door just as Li Zhaodi was putting on a smiling face to greet her.@@@@


    Yue Qingqing leaned into her mother¡¯s embrace, turning her head toward Jinshan Village.


    Some things might also be destined by heaven.


    The matter with Yue Xiaofang wasn¡¯t over yet.


    After the day¡¯s unrest, it was evening by the time they returned home.


    Wang Xiaoni, holding her child, waited in the outer room and immediately approached as people entered.


    ¡°Mom, why didn¡¯t Xiaofang come back with you? Didn¡¯t you agree she would get a divorce?¡±


    Lin Chunju sighed, waving her hand dismissively.


    Zhang Ying quietly explained the previous events and aftermath.


    Wang Xiaoni remained silent, being a mother herself, she could understand Yue Xiaofang¡¯s thoughts.


    ¡°Let¡¯s eat first, I have something to discuss after dinner,¡± Lin Chunju said in an unusually solemn tone, making everyone uneasy during the meal.


    After tidying up the dishes, everyone sat at the table.


    Lin Chunju let out a deep breath, ¡°The Yue Family is still too poor.¡±


    This statement had been silently acknowledged many times in their hearts. If the Yue Family weren¡¯t so poor, would the people in the village look down on them? Would Yue Xiaofang have married into another village only to be bullied?


    ¡°But poverty shouldn¡¯t lead to low aspirations; with so many mouths to feed, we need to find a way to make money,¡± Lin Chunju said, tapping her finger lightly yet firmly on the table.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t we make some money from selling ginseng before? I plan to use that money to lease a plot of land in the village. What do you all think?¡±

 Chapter 39 - 39 Jin Aijun鈥檚 Promise

    Chapter 39: Chapter 39 Jin Aijun¡¯s Promise


    Land was the very foundation upon which the village people¡¯s lives depended.


    The gap between the rich and the poor in each household mainly depended on how much land they occupied.


    The Yue Family had three brothers, yet they only had one plot of land¡ªnot enough to even consider splitting.


    So when this news was suddenly heard, everyone was emotionally stirred.


    Even Yue Qingqing vocalized her opinion twice, and Zhang Ying laughed while touching her little nose.


    Yue Jiandong was the most composed and recovered the quickest, ¡°But our family¡¯s three hundred dollars might not be enough. I heard that now leasing land requires a lease of over ten years.¡±


    Yue Jianxi also scratched his head, ¡°And with the land in the village being so sparse, who would want to rent to us? Leasing barren land is not worthwhile either.¡±


    The barren land had long been uncultivated, covered in weeds, making the soil fertility poor.


    It would need several years of good maintenance to yield a good harvest, something the Yue Family could not wait for.@@@@


    Yet Lin Chunju was resolute, ¡°Old man Jin passed away half a year ago, and his only son, Jin Aijun, has been apprenticing with the old carpenter for several years now and won¡¯t become a farmer either.¡±


    Upon hearing this, the Yue Family realized Lin Chunju had long planned this and knew everything thoroughly.


    ¡°We might not have enough money, but we can talk to Jin Aijun and pay him for the land in installments, increasing it a bit every year.¡±


    Yue Jiandong nodded, ¡°Junzi and I have a good relationship; he should agree.¡±


    Lin Chunju decided, ¡°Good, eldest, you go tomorrow and feel him out. If he agrees, we¡¯ll go talk to the village chief.¡±


    That night the Yue Family slept very well, filled with dreams of hope and anticipation for the future¡ªall sweet dreams.


    Ever since she stopped breastfeeding at night, Yue Qingqing had been put back in the eldest brother¡¯s room.


    Finally, unable to bear it anymore, Yue Jiandong flicked his finger on his head, ¡°Don¡¯t talk while eating; you¡¯ll choke soon enough.¡±


    Even so, the rest of the Yue family was also restless.


    Yue Jiandong finished his breakfast at double speed and walked quickly towards Jin Aijun¡¯s house.


    Jin Aijun had just gotten out of bed, and his face showed surprise when he opened the door.


    ¡°Brother Yue, why are you here so early? What do you need?¡±


    Yue Jiandong looked around, ¡°Let¡¯s talk inside.¡±


    Once Jin Aijun understood Yue Jiandong¡¯s intentions, he seemed troubled.


    ¡°Brother Yue, I indeed have no plans to farm, but this land is the legacy my father left me. I can¡¯t just give it away.¡±


    Yue Jiandong quickly grasped the deeper meaning in his words.


    ¡°Junzi, you can rest assured, I am not looking to lease the land for free. We might not have much money at home, but we can pay the rental for one year upfront, and depending on the harvest, we¡¯ll increase the rent next year.¡±


    Jin Aijun was startled, unable to help himself from saying, ¡°Where does the Yue Family get their money?¡±


    Yue Jiandong didn¡¯t tell the truth, ¡°Ah, it¡¯s all from mother¡¯s dowry before. We had no other choice but to sell them in town a while back.¡±


    Many people in the village knew that Lin Chunju came from a wealthy family and having some valuables was not surprising.


    But little did they know that during those tough years, Lin Chunju had already sold everything she had.


    Jin Aijun¡¯s face brightened, thumping his chest in assurance.


    ¡°Brother Yue, rest assured, we brothers have been close since childhood. I will definitely lease this land to your family.¡±


    Yue Jiandong felt a weight lifted off his chest and a surge of joy rose within him.

 Chapter 40 - 40 Stirring Trouble

    Chapter 40: Chapter 40 Stirring Trouble


    After Yue Jiandong returned, he shared the news with everyone, and it was as sweet as honey to them.


    Even Lin Chunju had a smile on her face.


    ¡°Good, let¡¯s finalize this matter early. Tomorrow... no, this afternoon we¡¯ll go find the village head,¡± she said.


    Yue Jiandong smiled and said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ve discussed it with Junzi. He¡¯s also off today, and he¡¯ll go to Village Chief Zhang¡¯s house this afternoon; I expect they¡¯ll both be here by evening.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s great, that¡¯s great,¡± Lin Chunju finally could relax.


    She hugged Yue Xiaohu now and then held Yue Qingqing.


    ¡°When you grow up, our family can often eat sugar and meat!¡±


    Yue Xingxing, unable to contain her excitement, exclaimed, ¡°Grandma, me too!¡±


    ¡°Xingxing can have some too.¡± Lin Chunju picked her up, her smile so broad she could hardly close her mouth.


    ¡°It¡¯s going to be a bit tiring tonight. Let¡¯s make some extra dishes; after all, the village head is making the trip on such a festive occasion.¡±


    Zhang Ying and Wang Xiaoni nodded, their faces beaming with smiles, not feeling tired in the slightest.


    By evening, the table was set with steaming dishes, and Zhang Ying wiped clean the stools she had moved over.


    But the guest they were waiting for didn¡¯t show up.@@@@


    Yue Jiannan had been standing in the outer courtyard for quite some time, shivering from the cold.


    A useless investment, no matter how pretty she is.


    Since she already knew the outcome, Lin Chunju appeared calm.


    ¡°Village Chief, Aijun, let¡¯s have dinner together first. We can talk about matters after the meal,¡± she said.


    Village Chief Zhang and Jin Aijun both waved their hands, with Jin Aijun looking particularly ashamed.


    Wang Jinshun wanted to disgust the Yue Family, but no one offered him chopsticks.


    Village Chief Zhang cleared his throat, ¡°Sister-in-law of the Yue Family, Aijun came to see me today, wanting to rent the land to your family. I agreed to witness this and was about to prepare the report for the government.¡±


    ¡°But not long after, Aijun and Wang Jinshun came back to me, saying that the land should be rented to Wang Jinshun¡¯s family. He clearly broke his promise, so he asked me to come and speak about it.¡±


    The Yue Family was both angry and anxious, as Wang Jinshun has only a son and a daughter, and the land they owned was more than enough for them. Why would he snatch the land they had eyed?


    The sight of the Yue Family¡¯s angry expressions delighted Wang Jinshun immensely.


    After his leg was broken, people in the village said it was his karma.


    Though Wang Jinshun didn¡¯t believe in karma and found it weird, especially after his son became impotent, his hatred toward the Yue Family deepened.


    During the idle time in winter, Wang Jinshun made it his business to watch the Yue Family and naturally discovered the meeting between Yue Jiandong and Jin Aijun.


    His mind was fairly agile, and he quickly guessed the intentions of the Yue Family.


    No way will they turn their luck around!


    He was determined to block the Yue Family¡¯s path!

 Chapter 41 - 41 Seeking Another Way Out

    Chapter 41: Chapter 41 Seeking Another Way Out


    Yue Jiandong asked Jin Aijun, ¡°Junzi, when it¡¯s all just renting land, why did you rent it to Wang Jinshun¡¯s family?¡±


    Jin Aijun, with his head lowered, said, ¡°Brother Yue, I know I¡¯ve wronged you, but he offered to pay me five years of rent in one go.¡±@@@@


    Wealth sways people¡¯s hearts; even if two people are close, in the end, it¡¯s the tangible benefits that matter.


    Wang Jinshun, due to his son¡¯s incident, had received a large sum of compensation from the government, which made him much wealthier compared to the Yue family.


    Yue Jiandong shook his head and patted Jin Aijun¡¯s shoulder, ¡°I don¡¯t blame you. Anyone would have been tempted.¡±


    Far from feeling relieved, Jin Aijun only felt more distressed.


    ¡°Actually, I asked Mayor Zhang to come today because I was hoping he could mediate. The land my old man left is quite large; why not split it in two and rent half to each family?¡±


    Mayor Zhang discussed with Wang Jinshun, ¡°Your land is already not small, plus you only have you and Daming, two men in the family, and with your bad leg, you might not always be able to look after it.¡±


    ¡°Better to resolve enmity than to hold a grudge. Yue Dashan truly saved you back then, and for that alone, you should agree to Junzi¡¯s proposal.¡±


    Wang Jinshun sneered, ¡°My leg may be lame, but it doesn¡¯t affect farming. Besides, whether or not the land can be farmed is my family¡¯s business, and even as mayor, you can¡¯t control that.¡±


    Mayor Zhang was at a loss for words.


    Wang Jinshun added, ¡°And I sure don¡¯t dare to farm land with the Yue family. Who knows if I might catch their poverty disease?¡±


    Mayor Zhang paused at the doorway, misunderstanding Lin Chunju¡¯s intent, ¡°Sister-in-law Yue, don¡¯t worry. When the village has suitable land for contracting, I will consider the Yue family first.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve misunderstood, I wanted to ask if the fish pond to the south of the village is available for contracting?¡±


    Mayor Zhang was taken aback, ¡°The fish pond? But that pond has been abandoned for quite some time.¡±


    This fish pond had been in the village for a long time, and it wasn¡¯t that no one had ever thought about it, but after one or two years, there were no profits to be had.


    Many people said that there were rivers nearby the village, and if one wanted to eat fish or shrimp, one could just go fishing. Who would bother with a fish pond?


    Since it had been neglected for so long, the drainage channels were clogged, and the water that accumulated had turned into a stagnant pond.


    In the summer, it emitted bursts of foul smell, attracting many mosquitoes and insects, and villagers would take detours to avoid it.


    Yet Lin Chunju was resolute, ¡°No problem, just tell me if it¡¯s possible to rent.¡±


    Mayor Zhang, trying to be kind, cautioned her, ¡°It¡¯s possible, sure, but it won¡¯t make money, you know. You shouldn¡¯t make a hasty decision out of desperation.¡±


    ¡°You know my family are skilled fishermen, and over time we¡¯ve become familiar with the habits of fish. There might be a way out,¡± Lin Chunju analyzed.


    ¡°Besides, the rent for the fish pond should be cheap, right?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s for sure, after all, nobody wants it. Although it¡¯s considered the village¡¯s communal property, if your family really wants to rent it, our village committee will discuss it, and the price will definitely be low. Think of it as fixing a stinky ditch and contributing to the village environment.¡±


    Wang Jinshun, listening on the side, suddenly interjected, ¡°Mayor Zhang, my family is also capable of contracting that fish pond.¡±

 Chapter 42: 42nd Chapter: Contracting the Fish Pond

    Chapter 42: 42nd Chapter: Contracting the Fish Pond


    Village Chief Zhang was really annoyed now, ¡°Wang Jinshun, can your family be in two places at once? Having finally earned a little money, you might as well contract all the village land.¡±


    Wang Jinshun pursed his lips and stopped talking; he just couldn¡¯t stand to see the Yue Family do well, who would care about a broken pond anyway.


    Lin Chunju wasn¡¯t in a hurry, speaking leisurely, ¡°Forget it, it was just a casual mention. If you¡¯re willing to pay, I¡¯ll let you have it.¡±


    Her attitude made Wang Jinshun feel uneasy, fearing this might be a pitfall laid by the Yue Family.


    Besides, however he thought about it, the fish pond was no better than a stinky ditch, hardly worth anything.


    ¡°Forget it, I think that broken place suits the Yue Family just fine; I won¡¯t contract it.¡± Wang Jinshun swaggered away, feeling his task of annoying the Yue Family was accomplished.


    ¡°I¡¯ll discuss it with the village committee tomorrow, and we can sign the contract the day after.¡±


    Village Chief Zhang was a man of action, not willing to delay matters even during the New Year period.


    Lin Chunju repeatedly thanked him and had Yue Jiannan pack some meat for him to take back.


    Village Chief Zhang initially refused but eventually had to take it with him.


    Jin Aijun was getting ready to leave as well, but Yue Jiandong also prepared a bowl for him.


    Jin Aijun said with embarrassment, ¡°Big Brother Yue, how can I have the face to eat your family¡¯s food?¡±


    After everyone had left, Yue Jiannan, who had a belly full of words, couldn¡¯t hold back any longer.


    ¡°Mom, are you really planning to contract the fish pond? Wouldn¡¯t it be better to contract a fruit orchard like my sister?¡±


    Lin Chunju analyzed for him, ¡°Our Daye Village doesn¡¯t have the convenience of transportation like Jinshan Village. Fruit is the kind of thing that spoils quickly, and if we can¡¯t transport it after harvest, it would all rot in the orchard, maybe not even covering the cost of saplings.¡±


    Yue Jiandong continued after his mother, ¡°Plus, ever since Xiaofang¡¯s fruit orchard started making money, many families in Jinshan Village have begun planting fruit trees; once there are more growers, the price of fruit will also not be good.¡±


    Yue Jiannan then understood, but still had some reservations, ¡°But we¡¯ve never managed a fish pond before.¡±


    Lin Chunju answered him with just four words.


    It¡¯s all up to us.


    Thanks to Wang Jinshun¡¯s vigorous promotion, the news of the Yue Family contracting the village¡¯s spoiled fish pond spread quickly.


    There were all sorts of remarks, but most were laments about the fate of the Yue Family.


    ¡°No helping it, one has to accept their fate, the Yue Family seems destined to be poor for generations.¡±


    ¡°I heard it¡¯s the widow Lin who sold her bottom-of-the-trunk dowry to scrape up the money. Tsk, it¡¯s just like throwing money into the water.¡±


    ¡°From now on, it¡¯s better to steer clear of their house, weird enough as it is, who knows if their brains aren¡¯t right either.¡±


    The last sentence was said by Er Gou¡¯s wife, who had the nature of forgetting pain once the wound was healed, once again flaunting her presence before the Yue family.


    Under the skeptical gaze of the people, Yue Jiandong, representing the Yue Family, formally signed the contract with the village.

 Chapter 43: Preliminary Work

    Chapter 43: Chapter 43: Preliminary Work


    Considering the fish pond was almost abandoned, the village offered a very low price.


    However, since the Yue Family signed a ten-year contract all at once, it still amounted to a substantial expense.@@@@


    Village Chief Zhang maintained a peculiar expression of wanting to say something but stopping himself throughout the entire discussion and eventually couldn¡¯t hold back.


    ¡°Jiandong, although you have taken on the fish pond contract, you should still focus more on your own land. After all, this is the root of us farmers,¡± he finally managed to say.


    This was to ensure the Yue Family had a safety net, lest the fish pond losses later leave them unable to afford even food.


    Yue Jiandong solemnly thanked him and took his two brothers to see the pond the next day.


    The fish pond was located south of the village, not too far from the Yue Family¡¯s home.


    It was the midst of winter, and thankfully, the smell was not too bad with a layer of ice on top, beneath which one could vaguely make out a variety of garbage that was also frozen.


    Having been abandoned for too long, it had almost become a garbage dump.


    Yue Jiannan shook his head upon seeing it, ¡°It¡¯s too dirty, how are we going to clean this up? The fish would get sick and die if we put them in here.¡±


    While measuring the pond¡¯s dimensions with his feet, Yue Jiandong reassured, ¡°No worries, it¡¯s already much better than I expected. This pond is large and deep enough to raise a good number of fish.¡±


    Yue Jianxi rubbed his hands, which were red from the cold, ¡°We can¡¯t do much now, the ground around is frozen solid. Let¡¯s wait for the spring thaw and then properly fix up the pond.¡±


    ¡°Then we¡¯re leaving the fish pond in your charge,¡± his brothers declared.


    Yue Jiandong spoke earnestly, and Yue Jianxi also patted his shoulder.


    Feeling the entrustment of his brothers, Yue Jiannan felt a warm glow in his heart.


    He wasn¡¯t entirely useless after all.


    This year¡¯s spring arrived earlier than usual, bringing the chill of the thawing snow.


    But for the Yue Family, this was a signal.


    Once the ground thawed, the cleanup of the fish pond officially began.


    On the day they were preparing to go out and work, Lin Chunju had them take Yue Qingqing with them to keep her beside them while they worked.


    The small cart that Jin Aijun had made for the Yue Family was ready, evidently made with care, sturdy and beautiful.


    Yue Jiandong was puzzled, ¡°Qingqing is still too small; it could make her sick to be out in the cold.¡±


    Yue Qingqing smacked the small cart, indicating her spirit was not afraid of the cold or fatigue.


    Seeing this, Lin Chunju laughed, ¡°She can¡¯t stay still at home; besides, there aren¡¯t many people around there, so it¡¯s also good for her to go out and see the scenery.¡±


    With no options left, they had to take Little Bean along as they headed out.

 Chapter 44: The Partridges of Early Spring

    Chapter 44: Chapter 44: The Partridges of Early Spring


    The ground in the village was uneven, and though the cart had shock absorbers, it was still very uncomfortable to sit in.


    The cart¡¯s wheels rolled over the bumpy surface, jolting Yue Qingqing so much that she saw stars.


    Yue Qingqing quickly reached out to her dad, and Yue Jiandong, smiling, picked her up and held her close to his chest.


    ¡°Wanting daddy to hold you, are you?¡±


    Yue Qingqing leaned against Yue Jiandong, feeling both warm and steady, much more comfortable than sitting in the cart.


    Thus, she ingratiatingly nuzzled the neck of this human vehicle, her fuzzy hat brushing against him, making Yue Jiandong unable to resist laughing.


    Yue Jianxi picked up the cart, looking enviously at the father and daughter ahead.


    The villagers all said daughters were worthless and sons were valuable.@@@@


    His own rascal son, only slightly younger than Qingqing, did nothing but eat and sleep, facing him solely with his buttocks each time he came home.


    How could his son be as affectionate as a daughter? Even Xingxing often hugged his neck, calling him daddy.


    Yue Qingqing, blissfully unaware that Yue Xiaohu was being unjustly criticized, was finally out on a ¡°long trip,¡± feeling her eyes couldn¡¯t take in enough of the sights.


    Daye Village still preserved relatively primitive scenery; a few towering trees sporadically lined the main road of the village, probably older than Yue Jiandong.


    The wild chicken in his hands weakly flapped its wings, resigning itself to closing its eyes.


    Spring was the perfect time for wild chickens to forage, as they could dig beneath the soil, now soft from thawing, to find freshly sprouted seeds and plump insects.


    This wild chicken was unfortunate, its sharp beak stuck in the cracked mud at the edge of the pond.


    The soil here was harder, and when its beak got stuck, it froze; despite struggling, it was ultimately picked up easily by the Yue brothers.


    Yue Jiandong was overjoyed, ¡°We haven¡¯t eaten meat in a while, perfect for an extra dish tonight.¡±


    Ever since they had signed the contract for the fishpond, the Yue family had returned to tightening their belts; although Lin Chunju tried various ways to enrich their meals, they still lacked meat.


    ¡°Lucky Qingqing reminded us in time, had anyone else seen it, it definitely would have been picked up,¡± Yue Jianxi felt the weight in his hand, continuously swallowing saliva.


    After a discussion, the two decided that Yue Jianxi would first take the wild chicken home, then return to continue working.


    Along the way, many people saw this scene, and those who had just been speaking ill of the Yue family¡¯s luck were stunned.


    Spring¡¯s wild chicken meat is tender and rich, and those with pregnant women at home all hoped to somehow catch one for soup, which was very nourishing.


    Wild chickens were cunningly elusive, flying away at the slightest rustle.


    Even setting traps with broad beans often failed to catch them, frequently resulting in wasted food and effort.


    The Yue family casually picking one up like this, their luck was simply too good!

 Chapter 45: Sudden Promotion

    Chapter 45: Chapter 45: Sudden Promotion


    With this interlude, both of them felt much more vigorous as they worked.


    It was the best season for pond maintenance, the sediment in the pond frozen to just the right consistency that it could be steadily scooped out with an iron shovel.


    The accumulated trash on top was also cleared out in the process.


    Excessive sediment could deteriorate the water quality and cause various diseases in the pond fish.


    However, it couldn¡¯t be completely cleared away either, since the sediment also had the capability to fertilize, retain nutrients, and regulate the nutrient level of the water.


    The Yue Family also planned to plant some aquatic plants in the pond to enrich its environment.


    Yue Jiandong had a farmer¡¯s knack for relying on nature for sustenance. The amount of sediment left was neither too much nor too little, carefully measured with knotted cords.


    The cleared sediment was piled to the side, to be carted away in a wheelbarrow once it was all clean.


    The two worked with great enthusiasm, soon sweating profusely in the spring day that still carried a hint of chill.


    While they worked, Yue Qingqing was left to amuse herself in the wheelbarrow nearby.


    At first, Yue Jiandong was quite worried, occasionally checking his daughter¡¯s little nose to see if it was cold, and then pouring some water for her from a small cup.@@@@


    Having come to the Different World, Yue Qingqing was no longer constrained by the Heavenly Dao, but due to the scarcity of spiritual energy, her path to cultivation was not much easier than before.


    Yet, considering her current age, this realm was rather frightening.


    Perhaps this was the cause of her previous life and the fruit of the present.


    In her previous life, the Heavenly Dao couldn¡¯t accommodate her rapid progress and would knock her down to her original state. Although she advanced with difficulty in this life, she no longer had to endure such suppression.


    Indeed, misfortune leans on fortune and fortune hides within misfortune.


    A profound and mysterious sensation emerged in her mind, and Yue Qingqing closed her eyes like an old monk entering meditation.


    If another cultivator were present, they would see the thin spiritual energy in the area gather and swirl around her.


    Like a reverse tornado enveloping Yue Qingqing, she was at the very eye of the storm.


    Large beads of sweat dropped from her forehead, impurities within her body expelled with the sweat through her pores.


    Soon Yue Qingqing was drenched in sweat, her clothes sticking clammily to her body.


    But she felt refreshed and invigorated, involuntarily exhaling a breath of turbid air.


    In such a state, she unexpectedly ascended two levels in realm consecutively.


    Her current cultivation base was now the fourth level of the Qi Refinement Realm, an unimaginable feat in this spiritual environment.

 Chapter 46 - 46 It Really Stinks

    Chapter 46: Chapter 46 It Really Stinks


    However, she had no idea that she had been sitting for several hours, and it was now dusk.


    When she opened her eyes, she found her father staring at her with a worried expression.@@@@


    ¡°Baby! What¡¯s wrong with you?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Yue Qingqing was stupefied, slightly frightened that she might have given something away, tilting her head and feigning ignorance.


    Yue Jiandong indeed noticed something was amiss, but he completely misunderstood the situation.


    ¡°This is no good, she¡¯s sweating so much, her clothes are totally drenched. She must be sick.¡±


    Yue Jiandong took the jacket he¡¯d left aside while working and draped it over Yue Qingqing, wrapping his daughter tightly and immediately started running back home.


    Yue Qingqing, who was already feeling a bit warm, felt even more overheated and dizzy with this additional layer.


    By the time they arrived at the Yue family home, her little face was bright red.


    The family was startled when they saw her.


    ¡°What happened here?¡± Lin Chunju had been in the middle of cooking dinner and rushed out upon hearing the commotion.


    The two brothers were panting heavily, still out of breath.


    Yue Jiandong¡¯s face was filled with guilt, ¡°At first, I was paying attention, but then I got caught up in the work and forgot about her. I thought Qingqing wouldn¡¯t walk far, but when I finished, I found that she seemed off.¡±


    As for what was off, Yue Jiandong couldn¡¯t quite put his finger on it. She just seemed asleep and didn¡¯t respond when called, drenched in heavy sweat.


    Yue Qingqing stared at the ceiling, pretending nothing was amiss, but the family smelled around and wouldn¡¯t let her off so easily.


    In the end, Zhang Ying carried her to prepare a bath.


    Motherly love is great, but even Zhang Ying couldn¡¯t help but hold her nose in the face of her dirt-covered child.


    ¡°My little darling, did you secretly roll in the mud? How did you get so dirty?¡±


    After softening a loofah sponge with boiling water, then soaking it in warm water, it could easily scrub off a thick layer of mud-like substance from Yue Qingqing¡¯s body.


    As for the outer layer of clothing stained with smelly sweat, they had already been soaked in a basin and scalded with boiling water.


    Yue Qingqing at first pretended to be just a baby, unaware of anything.


    But when the removed filth became too much, she could only move closer with a flattering expression, trying to charm and beguile.


    Zhang Ying felt that the dirt was somewhat unusual but didn¡¯t dwell on it, rinsing her daughter repeatedly with warm water.


    Once she was thoroughly cleaned, they noticed that Qingqing¡¯s skin was even whiter and brighter than before.


    She was already cute and rosy, but now she looked more like a little jade carving.


    The phrase ¡°delicately carved and polished¡± was a literal description, not just a figure of speech, when it came to her.


    Zhang Ying held her daughter, again unable to part with her, ¡°Such a good girl.¡±


    Smelling the fresh scent that was now on her body, Yue Qingqing finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    It seemed she would have to be more careful in the future about leveling up; that ordeal had been too intense.

 Chapter 47: Something at the Bottom of the Pool?

    Chapter 47: Chapter 47: Something at the Bottom of the Pool?


    The aftermath of the incident lasted several days.


    Although the final conclusion was that it had been a false alarm, Yue Jiandong dared not take his daughter with him again.


    After all, she was still too young, and it would be too late if something were to really happen.


    Moreover, besides taking care of the fish pond, they also needed to do spring plowing.


    With many people and activities around the farmland, encountering someone with bad intentions like Wang Jinshun again could lead to unpredictable accidents.


    Yue Qingqing was cooped up at home for several days, watching the wild birds fly freely outside her window every day, her heart filled with a faint sadness.


    Ah, to want and not be able to have.


    Finally, the day Yue Jiandong returned home, he saw Zhang Ying holding their tearful little daughter.


    ¡°She¡¯s been watching the doorway, probably waiting for you to come back.¡±


    Yue Jiandong¡¯s heart overflowed with emotion as he picked up his daughter and rubbed her cheeks with his stubble.


    ¡°Missed daddy, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    Yue Qingqing¡¯s cheeks turned slightly red from the rubbing, and her little hand tremulously pointed towards the doorway.


    Yue Jiandong still didn¡¯t catch her meaning, ¡°I know you missed dad, tomorrow dad will come back early.¡±


    Yue Qingqing continued to point, her large eyes welling with tears.


    ¡°Alright, alright, daddy will stay with you, I won¡¯t go out today.¡±


    Adults, truly a species hard to communicate with.


    Zhang Ying added a small cape to her daughter, wrapping everything below her neck tightly.


    ¡°They say keep warm in spring and cool in autumn; a little sweat is fine, mom will bathe you when we get back.¡±


    Yue Qingqing bashfully covered her face with her little paws.


    This time, arriving near the fish pond, Yue Qingqing was astonished.


    The previous garbage dump had changed completely; the edges of the fish pond were neatly constructed, and some aquatic plants were planted at the bottom.


    The rippling green waves looked quite elegant.


    This was a characteristic of the Yue family, probably also influenced by Lin Chunju.


    Although the family was poor, everything was arranged neatly, and even patched clothes had nice patterns on them.


    In earlier years, they were even ridiculed for being poor yet meticulous, and there were sarcastic comments about behaving like a landowner¡¯s daughter.


    Seeing his precious daughter¡¯s astonished expression, Yue Jiandong couldn¡¯t help but boast to the little one.


    ¡°Looks good, right?¡± He had put a great deal of effort into the renovation, with every inch marked by a stretched string.


    Later, when more flowers and plants are transplanted to decorate, it will almost resemble the pond of a wealthy family¡¯s estate in the past.


    Yue Qingqing nodded, staring unblinkingly at the pond.


    Seeing her reaction, Yue Jiandong grew even more proud, intending to place his daughter in a pushcart nearby to finish the final touches.


    However, Yue Qingqing grabbed his collar and would not let go, pointing ah-ah at the bottom of the pond.


    With the experience from previous times, Yue Jiandong gradually sensed something unusual about his child.


    ¡°Do you think there¡¯s something under there?¡±

 Chapter 48: Return to the Rightful Owner

    Chapter 48: Chapter 48: Return to the Rightful Owner@@@@


    Yue Qingqing nodded, her eyes unblinking as she stared at the bottom of the pond.


    Last time she came with Yue Qingqing, she was left aside and hadn¡¯t discovered anything.


    But now, being held by Yue Jiandong and overlooking the entire fish pond, she noticed a shimmering luster at the very bottom.


    It flickered slightly in the ripples, but Yue Qingqing couldn¡¯t make out what it was.


    Ordinary families wouldn¡¯t pay it any mind.


    The Yue Family, although not as blindly convinced of Yue Qingqing¡¯s fortune as Lin Chunju was, still privately believed that this little girl was a lucky star reborn.


    Without giving it much thought, Yue Jiandong took off his shoes, rolled up his trousers, and jumped into the pond.


    Yue Qingqing gestured clumsily with her hands from the side as if to direct him.


    A baby directing a grown man would certainly seem absurd to anyone else, but these two seemed completely natural.


    ¡°Aw, aw!¡±


    Seeing Yue Jiandong¡¯s palm press down on the glowing spot, Yue Qingqing became so anxious she nearly leapt out of her stroller.


    Yue Jiandong understood and groped around in the mud until he found an odd, hard lump.


    Ele pulled out the mud-covered lump, and after rinsing it in the water, its warm luster became even more apparent.


    ¡°Jade!¡±


    Yue Jiandong exclaimed, still wet from the climb he took no time to dry his trouser legs, spreading the item on his palm for a closer look.


    Yue Jiandong pulled out the mutton-fat jade from his chest pocket, and Lin Chunju glanced over nonchalantly, then suddenly froze.


    ¡°This... this is my jade.¡±


    ¡°Yes, just now Qingqing kept pointing at the bottom of the pond. I jumped down and found it,¡± he said.


    Lin Chunju didn¡¯t hear what her son was saying, reaching out mechanically to take the jade from Yue Jiandong¡¯s palm.


    Even without understanding the value, Zhang Ying and Wang Xiaoni could tell that this pure white jade, free from any impurities, was something special.


    The jade was circular and evenly thick, with only a character carved in the center.


    The extending cloud-like patterns wrapped around the character, giving the central ¡°Lin¡± a lifelike, animated quality.


    Ignoring the material of the jade, the craftsmanship alone would qualify it as a work of art.


    Lin Chunju gently caressed the carved character with her fingertip, her eyes full of nostalgia.


    ¡°Ah, I never thought it would be found again.¡±


    That year when they were robbed, the family lost many things, but Lin Chunju cared most for this piece of jade.


    It wasn¡¯t just because it was valuable; it was almost her only link to her previous life.


    But who could have imagined such a coincidence would occur?


    The Yue Family had contracted that fish pond, and this piece of jade was just at the bottom of it.


    All these days the two brothers cleaned it out with an iron shovel, and yet this small item wasn¡¯t disposed of with the rest of the trash; it had been just pressed under the mud that was left behind.


    Could this be the legendary return of lost property to its rightful owner?

 Chapter 49: The Decline of the Family Fortune

    Chapter 49: Chapter 49: The Decline of the Family Fortune


    Lin Chunju reminisced for a while, but after all that she had gone through, she quickly regained her composure.@@@@


    The first thing she did was to send Yue Jiandong off to continue working.


    ¡°Spring days are short, don¡¯t delay the schedule, and returning so abruptly like this might arouse suspicion,¡± she said.


    Yue Jiandong realized she had a point, agreed, and then took Yue Qingqing and her little cart to continue to the fishpond.


    Once they arrived at the spot, he first carried the child in his arms for a tour around the area.


    ¡°Baby, see if there is anything good around here.¡±


    Was he using her as a human detector?


    Yue Qingqing puffed her cheeks and randomly pointed in a direction.


    Yue Jiandong actually trotted over there with her and looked up to see a tree.


    ¡°What¡¯s buried under the roots of this tree? It couldn¡¯t be gold, could it?¡± Yue Jiandong said, rubbing his hands excitedly.


    But Yue Qingqing pointed to the slightly green fruit hanging from the tree.


    Um, she wanted to eat it.


    He had always noticed the gluttonous trait in the child, and Yue Jiandong chuckled, feeling a bit mischievous as he picked a fruit and wiped it on his sleeve.


    Unwrapping it layer by layer, the mutton-fat jade was presented again before everyone¡¯s eyes.


    The jade, carefully cleaned once more, appeared even more lustrous and translucent.


    The light in the house was rather dim compared to the daytime, yet the jade¡¯s luster captured everyone¡¯s attention firmly.


    Yue Jiannan couldn¡¯t help but swallow, and asked a question he had long been wondering about.


    ¡°Mom, everyone in the village says you came from a wealthy family. Just how wealthy were you?¡± he inquired.


    Lin Chunju rarely made a joke, but she made an exaggerated gesture with her hands in front of her chest.


    ¡°Even wealthier than this,¡± she said.


    ¡°So, why did the family fall from grace?¡±


    Not just Yue Jiannan, but both daughters-in-law were eagerly looking at her for an answer.


    Lin Chunju sighed, ¡°At that time, I was only a little older than you and didn¡¯t understand much. I only heard my brother say that our family had made a deadly enemy, who took the opportunity to ensure our doom.¡±


    Seeing Yue Jiannan about to ask more, she waved her hand.


    ¡°So many years have passed, and the memories have faded. There may have been some historical reasons as well. I remember that within half a month, one by one, the family members met with misfortune, and soon my brother and I were orphans.¡±


    ¡°All the servants in the house fled, the kind ones at least said goodbye to us, and the treacherous ones took valuable things away. When my brother tried to stop them, they looked fierce enough to kill.¡±


    ¡°One night, my brother said that since the family had fallen to such a state, it would be better for him to leave and seek a future elsewhere.¡±


    ¡°When he left, the house was stripped bare, anything of value was either stolen or snatched, leaving almost nothing but me and the personal jade he had carried since we were young. One for each of us, look, this is mine.¡±

 Chapter 50: The Ownership of the Jade

    Chapter 50: Chapter 50: The Ownership of the Jade


    Having held back his words for a long time, Yue Jiannan finally couldn¡¯t help but say, ¡°Mom, why didn¡¯t your brother take you with him?¡±


    Back then, Mom was just a little girl without any family to care for her, how could her brother heartlessly leave her behind?


    Lin Chunju shook her head, ¡°He always loved me and originally planned to take me with him, but later, my sister-in-law came to me secretly. She said my brother was determined to make his way in the world and bringing an unmarried young girl could attract too much trouble along the way, and he might not be able to protect me.¡±


    The Yue family members looked at each other, feeling that there was truth to her words, but essentially, wasn¡¯t it just because they found Lin Chunju to be a burden?


    Yue Jiandong also felt that his long-standing doubts were finally resolved, ¡°So Mom, in order to stay in Daye Village, you hurriedly married Dad?¡±


    ¡°Yes, your dad also had no parents left, only a small piece of infertile land, known in the village as a poor household. At that time, I had no other choice, fortunately, he was a good man and treated me well,¡± she said.


    Speaking of her late husband, Lin Chunju¡¯s face showed a nostalgic expression.


    Zhang Ying mustered the courage to ask, ¡°Mom, didn¡¯t uncle ever come back? Or send any messages?¡±


    Lin Chunju shook her head, then looked at the jade on the table.@@@@


    ¡°This jade arrived by coincidence, the family was poor before, and I always thought that if it wasn¡¯t stolen, it could be sold for some money. Now that times are better, there¡¯s no need to sell it anymore, perhaps in the future, it might even help recognize our family through this piece of jade,¡± she said, laughing.


    While talking, Lin Chunju also laughed, ¡°Previously, times were intermittently chaotic, I don¡¯t even know if he¡¯s still alive, it seems impossible that we could meet again.¡±


    Lin Chunju seldom spoke about her own background, and everyone listened with great interest.


    After fixing the fish pond, Yue Jiandong and his brothers made a special trip to the city and after asking several places, they finally found reasonably priced fish fry that were not prone to diseases.


    It was unknown who spread the news, but on the day they released the fish fry, half the village gathered at the Yue family¡¯s fish pond to watch.


    Yue Jiandong followed the fishmonger¡¯s instructions by feeding them egg yolks before entering the pond, and after testing the water temperature, he released the fry into the pond.


    In the eyes of the Yue family members, this was like sowing seeds full of hope.


    But to the villagers, it was almost like proof of the Yue family squandering resources.


    Fortunately, after many years of hearing gossip, the Yue family members had become immune to it.


    No one noticed the mark on Yue Qingqing in the cart, nor the undetectable spiritual energy drifting above the fish pond.


    The pond water was momentarily dyed golden before reverting to a shallow green.


    After the crowd of onlookers dispersed, the three brothers walked back.


    As they reached the door, they instinctively felt the unusual atmosphere.


    Yue Jiannan looked at the half-open door, hearing faint noises of argument inside.


    ¡°Do we have guests at home?¡±


    But if they were guests, why would they be arguing so vehemently, almost like debt collectors had come.

 Chapter 51: The Death of the Unruly Girl

    Chapter 51: Chapter 51: The Death of the Unruly Girl


    Yue Jiandong¡¯s heart sank, and he immediately pushed the door open.


    The voices finally poured clearly into the ears of the listeners.


    ¡°We are all from the same village, and our families are connected by marriage. Now that the Yue Family is prospering, it¡¯s time to give a helping hand.¡±


    ¡°Our Yingzi is a good child. So many matchmakers came knocking at our door, and I chose Jiandong because he seemed reliable. Mother-in-law, for the sake of this relationship, you should also pay up, shouldn¡¯t you?¡±


    Lin Chunju coldly said, ¡°When you received the bride price, you said that Yingzi was as good as sold to the Yue Family. Are you trying to go back on your word now?¡±


    The woman speaking was rendered speechless, but quickly tried to find footing, ¡°Mother-in-law, even though Yingzi has married into your family, the bond with her own brothers is still there, like bone connected to tendons. How can it be truly cut off?¡±


    ¡°Save me those empty words. I haven¡¯t seen you care about Yingzi all these years.¡±


    Lin Chunju was sitting on a chair in the outer room, with Zhang Ying standing by her side, her expression one of suppressed endurance and anger.


    Yue Jiannan¡¯s ears were assaulted by the noise coming from the woman sitting across from them, legs arrogantly crossed.@@@@


    She was around forty, dressed in a popular red outfit of the day.


    The dark-skinned man sitting beside her looked significantly older, and had not uttered a word since the beginning.


    Seeing this scene, Yue Jiannan felt his teeth ache and muttered to his second brother.


    ¡°Why has Niu Lihua come? Didn¡¯t she always look down on our sister-in-law, swearing she¡¯d never step foot in the Yue family¡¯s home?¡±


    While speaking, she reached out to touch Yue Qingqing¡¯s cheek.


    Zhang Ying quickly stepped forward, hoping to move her daughter away.


    But before Niu Lihua could touch Yue Qingqing, just as her fingers grazed the collar, a sharp pain shot through her, as if she had been shocked by electricity, causing her hand to involuntarily drop.


    Right at that moment, Zhang Ying arrived and picked her daughter up from the stroller.


    Static electricity was common in spring. Niu Lihua shook her hand and thought nothing more of it, cursing inwardly.


    But on the surface, her smile remained unchanged, ¡°Oh dear, I just wanted to play with the child because she¡¯s so cute, why are you so nervous?¡±


    Yue Qingqing could feel Zhang Ying¡¯s slight trembling. The fear she had for this woman seemed to run deep to the bone.


    Niu Lihua¡¯s shrewd gaze circled Yue Qingqing.


    ¡°However, speaking of which, this child is after all adopted. Who knows which family¡¯s bastard she is. She may never truly warm to you, not as much as your own children would.¡±


    For her child¡¯s sake, Zhang Ying for the first time ever plucked up the courage to talk back to Niu Lihua.


    ¡°You¡ªyou¡¯re talking nonsense, Qingqing is my child, always has been and always will be!¡±


    Niu Lihua disdainfully curled her lip, looking toward the man beside her and deliberately sighed.


    ¡°Old Zhang, look at this girl. She has only been married off for a few years, and now she talks to me with this tone, worse than an enemy.¡±


    Zhang Tieniu, who had been silent since entering the Yue household, finally raised his head, his murky eyes set on Zhang Ying.


    ¡°You disrespectful girl, defying your elders over a bastard child. Kneel down and kowtow to your mother as an apology!¡±

 Chapter 52 - 52 Nominal Adoption

    Chapter 52: Chapter 52 Nominal Adoption


    The remarks were given without any courtesy, but the Yue Family was not one to be trifled with either.


    Lin Chunju stood up at once, pointing at Zhang Tieniu¡¯s nose.


    ¡°Say that word again, and I swear I¡¯ll chop you up with a kitchen knife!¡±@@@@


    Her voice was loud, startling Niu Lihua into retreating a couple of steps.


    ¡°You, you wouldn¡¯t dare.¡±


    Lin Chunju scoffed, ¡°Why don¡¯t you try me and find out?¡±


    Yue Jiannan taunted in a mocking tone, ¡°Mom, no need for you to dirty your hands, I can handle it. I heard someone say I¡¯m not of age yet, so even if I did something, I probably wouldn¡¯t get a heavy sentence.¡±


    Such an assured tone indeed frightened the two of them.


    Yue Jiandong spoke coldly, ¡°Once Yingzi married into our family, she became one of us. What are you to criticize her like this?¡±


    Zhang Tieniu trembled with anger, not expecting his useless daughter to be so well protected.


    Niu Lihua completely lost face and finally realized that Lin Chunju¡¯s reputation for being fierce in the village was not without basis.


    If it weren¡¯t for the thought of scouring something from the Yue Family, she would have turned and walked away.


    The Yue Family used to be so poor they weren¡¯t even worthy of a visit, were they?


    With the conversation having reached this point, even thick-skinned people might find it hard to stay any longer.


    But Niu Lihua still wanted to make a final struggle. She secretly pinched Zhang Tieniu¡¯s arm, signaling him to speak up.


    Zhang Tieniu chewed on his back teeth over and over before finally parting his lips.


    ¡°Yingzi, I know you bear some grudges, but I did indeed raise you and marry you off when you were of age. Now that the household is in difficulty, you can¡¯t just wash your hands of us.¡±


    ¡°Besides, like your mother said earlier, the baby you picked up outside...¡± He swallowed the words forcefully and changed what he was about to say, ¡°We don¡¯t know where that child comes from. What if his biological parents come looking for him one day? He might just pack up and leave.¡±


    Yue Jiannan said sarcastically, ¡°What¡¯s it to do with your family? Mind your own radishes, it¡¯s none of your concern.¡±


    Zhang Tieniu didn¡¯t even glance at him but continued to speak directly to Zhang Ying.


    ¡°You have a daughter in your house, and she can¡¯t carry on the family name. Jiandong can¡¯t die without someone to drop the offering lid for him. Let me tell you the truth, your brother¡¯s wife is already pregnant. We paid for a secret check, and it¡¯s a boy in her belly.¡±


    ¡°Once the child is born, your mother and I can officially adopt him over to Jiandong. Wouldn¡¯t you have a son then?¡±


    Carrying on the family line was of utmost importance in the village; any family without a son couldn¡¯t hold their head up high.


    Ever since the country allowed only one child, families with only daughters were subject to ridicule.


    Niu Lihua refused to believe that, with such a big bait dangling before the Yue Family, they could resist taking the bite!

 Chapter 53 - 53 Greedy Eyes

    Chapter 53: Chapter 53 Greedy Eyes


    Niu Lihua was confident, watching Zhang Ying¡¯s face turn paler by the moment.


    Zhang Ying held her daughter close, feeling as if a hammer was repeatedly striking inside her chest.


    The life she had led since marrying into the Yue Family had been a lot happier than she had expected, with the only imperfection, perhaps, being her own inability to conceive.


    She had never done a single bad thing, so why was heaven punishing her like this?


    If... if she did as Niu Lihua suggested, allowing Zhang Jinhe¡¯s child to be adopted by Jiandong.


    Then Jiandong would truly have an heir.


    ¡°Mother...¡± Zhang Ying bit her lower lip and looked at Lin Chunju.


    But for the first time, the latter surprisingly ignored her, instead exchanging a glance with her eldest son.


    Both of them immediately understood Niu Lihua¡¯s scheme and coldly sneered.


    Yue Jiandong was the first to ask, ¡°Right now, the household registration only allows for one child. What exactly do you mean by having the child adopted by me, and how would that work?¡±


    Niu Lihua was prepared, ¡°We¡¯d like to put the child directly onto your household registration, but national policy won¡¯t allow it, ah. But it¡¯s not a problem, as long as we all understand in our hearts, just have Jinhe¡¯s child call you ¡®dad¡¯ and Zhang Ying ¡®mom¡¯ from a young age, as if it¡¯s you who are raising them.¡±


    Lin Chunju scoffed, ¡°Sounds nicer than a song, what do you mean ¡®adoption in name¡¯? The child will be raised in your home, the household registration stays in your home, but you say it¡¯s a child of the Yue Family? You think we¡¯re fools to be played like that.¡±


    Niu Lihua explained, ¡°There¡¯s no other way, due to the national...¡±


    ¡°Stop dragging the nation into this, you think I, Lin Chunju, am a fool? We provided a dowry for your son, took in a daughter-in-law, and now everything¡¯s agreed upon quite nicely, talking about calling Jiandong ¡®Dad¡¯ and Yingzi ¡®Mom¡¯. Once the child is actually born, won¡¯t it be whatever you choose to call it?¡±


    As shrewd as Niu Lihua was, she was out of options and could only call for Zhang Tieniu.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go, can¡¯t you see the mother-in-law doesn¡¯t welcome us?¡±


    Zhang Tieniu followed behind Niu Lihua with his head down, scratching his heart out in misery.


    If it hadn¡¯t been for his daughter-in-law¡¯s family taking advantage of having a son and demanding a high price, they wouldn¡¯t have needed to approach the Yue Family for the dowry money with their family¡¯s wealth.


    Niu Lihua glared fiercely at Zhang Ying, thinking this wretched girl was quite lucky. After marrying her off to the poorest family in the village, she never expected that there might be a chance for her to turn things around.


    With this thought, she rudely barged toward Zhang Ying.


    ¡°Move out of the way, good dogs don¡¯t block the path!¡±


    Zhang Ying, with her head lowered and still immersed in her own emotions, was caught off guard and nearly toppled over.


    Without the time to stabilize herself, she instinctively held her child tightly.


    Fortunately, Yue Jiandong quickly reached out to help, and Zhang Ying finally didn¡¯t fall.


    Yue Jiannan was angry and anxious, and raised his fist, ready to strike.


    Zhang Tieniu hastily grabbed Niu Lihua¡¯s sleeve and dragged her away, scared.


    However, Niu Lihua¡¯s gaze remained fixated on Yue Qingqing.


    In that moment, when Yue Qingqing had been jostled in Zhang Ying¡¯s arms, the mutton-fat jade hidden at her chest slipped out along the neckline.


    The oily jade, free of any impurities, immediately caught Niu Lihua¡¯s attention, her eyes brimming with greed.

 Chapter 54 - 54 Niu Lihua鈥檚 Idea

    Chapter 54: Chapter 54 Niu Lihua¡¯s Idea


    Under the glaring eyes of the Yue Family, Zhang Tieniu finally dragged Niu Lihua out.


    ¡°What are you staring at? Waiting to get beaten?¡±


    It took Niu Lihua a moment to recover, licking her lips, ¡°Did you see the jade on that wretched girl¡¯s neck?¡±


    ¡°What jade?¡±


    Niu Lihua gestured, ¡°This big, obviously very valuable.¡±@@@@


    Zhang Tieniu misunderstood Niu Lihua¡¯s intention and erupted in anger, ¡°The Yue Family allows a good-for-nothing to wear gold and jade, yet they are reluctant to contribute to their daughter-in-law¡¯s brother¡¯s dowry.¡±


    Niu Lihua quickly covered Zhang Tieniu¡¯s mouth, ¡°Don¡¯t shout here, let¡¯s talk at home.¡±


    She silently complained that this man was really too stupid, completely missing her point.


    Sigh, if it hadn¡¯t been for the Zhang Family having some property, why would she have married such a fool.


    The couple had just arrived home and hadn¡¯t even had a chance to drink water.


    Zhang Jinhe had already heard the noise and climbed out of bed abruptly.


    ¡°Dad, Mom, how much money do we need?¡±


    Niu Lihua shrieked, ¡°What are you talking about? Taohua has just been married for over a year, hasn¡¯t even settled in yet. If she takes out money, what will her in-laws think of her? Zhang Tieniu, are you even human?¡±


    Zhang Taohua was the first child she had carried in her womb; how could Niu Lihua bear to see her suffer?


    Zhang Tieniu shrank back, whispering, ¡°Isn¡¯t this really the last resort? Plus, our family gave her so much dowry initially, she should take some out to help her brother get through the threshold.¡±


    Nothing is more important than their own precious grandson, moreover, if not for the excessive dowry given during Taohua¡¯s marriage, the family wouldn¡¯t be unable to afford the dowry now.


    Niu Lihua pointed at his nose, ¡°Look at you, Zhang Tieniu, instead of asking Zhang Ying for money, you choose to dig into Taohua¡¯s dowry. I must have been blind to marry you.¡±


    Now Zhang Tieniu didn¡¯t dare to make a sound, hanging his head as Niu Lihua lectured him like a child.


    Zhang Jinhe impatiently said, ¡°What¡¯s all this noise about? This won¡¯t work, that won¡¯t work, I might as well not marry this wife, remain a bachelor forever. I¡¯m going to tell Xiaoling right now that my parents won¡¯t pay, let her abort the child and marry someone else, alas, dire fate of paired mandarin ducks.¡±


    Zhang Tieniu hurriedly stopped him, not letting Zhang Jinhe leave the house.


    In the midst of the noisy argument, Niu Lihua casually sat in her chair.


    ¡°I actually have an idea.¡±


    The father and son turned their heads to look at her, Niu Lihua squinted her eyes, a cold smile playing on her lips.


    ¡°Old Zhang, didn¡¯t I just tell you about the jade pendant on that bastard¡¯s neck? That thing looks like it¡¯s worth a lot of money ...¡±


    If they could get it and sell it, not only the dowry, but the family might even afford to build another house.

 Chapter 55: Showing solicitude when there is nothing wrong

    Chapter 55: Chapter 55: Showing solicitude when there is nothing wrong


    As the three Yue brothers had agreed before, after the release of the fish fry, both Yue Jiandong and Yue Jianxi visited the fish pond less frequently.


    Yue Jiannan took on the responsibility of feeding the fish fry by himself.


    True to trust placed in him, he appeared at the fish pond on time every day, pouring the prepared fish food with a clatter.


    Even the fish in the pond recognized him, swimming over whenever they saw Yue Jiannan.


    At a glance, it was a dense mass, very spectacular.


    Seeing his enthusiasm, Yue Jiandong advised with a smile, ¡°Only feed them twice a day, overfeeding can easily kill them.¡±


    ...


    Yue Jiannan¡¯s eyes sparkled, ¡°Brother, don¡¯t worry. I even went to the city earlier and bought some books on fish farming. Now I¡¯m clear on these things.¡±


    Zhang Ying remarked in surprise, ¡°The youngest is starting to read books now?¡±


    Previously, Lin Chunju had forced Yue Jiannan to attend school, but he really could not continue after junior high and dropped out.


    Yue Jiannan blushed, ¡°Now that the nation is promoting science, I should also farm fish scientifically.¡±


    Lin Chunju rarely encouraged him with a few words, ¡°Good, keep it up.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I assure you there won¡¯t be any issues.¡±


    With that, Yue Jiannan crouched down to look at Yue Qingqing on the small pushcart.


    ¡°Do you want to come and see the fish with me?¡±


    Yue Qingqing nodded eagerly, reaching out her hand pleadingly for Yue Jiannan to hold her, her appearance very obsequious.


    The Yue family members all laughed, this little one only showed this expression when it came to eating and going out.


    Seeing Yue Jiannan¡¯s expression, Zhang Jinhe smiled and pushed the cigarette closer to him again.


    ¡°Nevermind, I can¡¯t.¡±


    Yue Jiannan pushed it back anyway.


    Mother was right, unsolicited offers of help are from scoundrels or thieves.


    Zhang Jinhe didn¡¯t mind, lit the cigarette with a matchbox, and soon the smoke spiraled upward.


    ¡°Actually, I did warn my mother before. Although we didn¡¯t come from the same belly, we still share half the bloodline, why go to such extremes?¡±


    Yue Jiannan responded, ¡°Who says no, look at the days my sister-in-law lived in your house, even the doctor said her body was too frail to bear children due to the sins your family committed.¡±


    ¡°Alas, I was just a kid then, didn¡¯t understand anything, but now I do, and I very much regret it.¡±


    Yue Jiannan¡¯s expression softened a bit, ¡°Seems you¡¯re somewhat sensible after all, but you should apologize in person to my sister-in-law, I won¡¯t convey it.¡±


    Zhang Jinhe smiled, ¡°I¡¯m just too embarrassed to face her, hey, what book are you reading?¡±


    After some conversation, Yue Jiannan¡¯s animosity towards him had lessened somewhat, so he raised the novel cover to show him.


    ¡°Oh, looks pretty interesting, let me borrow it to read.¡±


    Zhang Jinhe grabbed the book page, catching Yue Jiannan off guard.


    There was a ripping sound, and the book split down the middle.


    ¡°What are you doing!¡±


    Zhang Jinhe said nothing, grabbed half the book, and ran.


    Yue Jiannan immediately got upset, unsure of what Jinhe was up to, and took off after him.


    By the desolate fish pond, soon only Yue Qingqing was left sitting alone in the small pushcart.

 Chapter 56: Unexpected Complications

    Chapter 56: Chapter 56: Unexpected Complications


    Ever since Zhang Jinhe appeared, Yue Qingqing could sense that something wasn¡¯t right.


    The sinister aura about him was too obvious to ignore.


    She didn¡¯t let on that anything was amiss and just wanted to see what he was up to.


    She continued to watch with some confusion even after the two men had run off into the distance.


    That¡¯s it?


    After all, not even she could imagine that someone would be malicious enough to harm a young child.


    ...


    Before she could react, the sound of disordered footsteps rapidly approached.


    ¡°Alright, there¡¯s no one around, let¡¯s get on with it quickly.¡±


    ¡°Lucky it¡¯s the Yue Family¡¯s third child; if it had been the eldest, it would¡¯ve been more troublesome.¡±


    Recognizing the familiar voices, Yue Qingqing turned her head and saw Niu Lihua and her husband coming into view.


    As they got closer, they faced Yue Qingqing¡¯s grape-like big eyes.@@@@


    Zhang Tieniu, seeing the child¡¯s delicate features, suddenly felt a wave of reluctance.


    ¡°Lihua, are you sure you didn¡¯t make a mistake the other day? Who in the village would put valuable things on a child?¡±


    Niu Lihua replied impatiently, ¡°Absolutely impossible. That jade was shining brightly, and the Yue¡¯s fondness for this ¡®wild child¡¯ is well-known throughout the village.¡±


    Suddenly looking up, she saw the pond not far away.


    Zhang Tieniu panicked, ¡°Lihua, you... what are you thinking?¡±


    ¡°With such a small child, sometimes they can roll out of their carts, and if they accidentally fall into the pond, who knows which mud pit the jade will end up in.¡±


    As she muttered to herself, Niu Lihua walked towards the pond, holding Yue Qingqing.


    If the damn girl won¡¯t let go, let¡¯s see if she keeps holding on once she¡¯s drowned.


    Zhang Tieniu was greedy, but he still couldn¡¯t bring himself to kill.


    ¡°Forget it, let¡¯s think of another way for the dowry. Put her down.¡±


    ¡°Shut up!¡± Niu Lihua turned and glared at him, her eyes red with rage.


    ¡°If it weren¡¯t for your worthlessness and your daughter! If only the Yue family was willing to pay, would I have to do this? It¡¯s all your fault!¡±


    Years of repressed habit made Zhang Tieniu dare not speak, and he could only watch the scene unfold helplessly.


    ¡°In the end, you¡¯re just an unwanted bastard; you deserve to die.¡±


    Standing at the edge of the pond, Niu Lihua was one step away from stepping in.


    She suddenly lifted Yue Qingqing high.


    Yue Qingqing¡¯s eyes fixed on her, the pupils reflecting a twisted face.


    ¡°What are you looking at.¡± Niu Lihua grew even angrier, wanting to gouge out those eyes.


    She pushed down with her arms, forcefully pressing Yue Qingqing towards the water.

 Chapter 57: Ghosts? Or Evil Spirits?

    Chapter 57: Chapter 57: Ghosts? Or Evil Spirits?


    ¡°Lihua, think this through, murder will cost you your life.¡±


    Zhang Tieniu tried to make one last effort to save her, but only received Lihua¡¯s sneer in response.


    ¡°People only pay with their life for murder when they¡¯re caught, and who else is here?¡±


    Although she was about to be forced into the water, Yue Qingqing¡¯s face showed no sign of panic.


    Her eyes flickered, and her small hand pinched a spell.


    Lihua¡¯s body suddenly shook, and her arms involuntarily tightened, lifting Yue Qingqing back into mid-air.


    ...


    Zhang Tieniu thought she had come to her senses and secretly breathed a sigh of relief.


    ¡°Quick, while no one is back yet, let¡¯s take the jade and leave quickly.¡±


    Unexpectedly, Lihua seemed not to hear his words, turning and walking step by step toward the pushcart.


    Her steps were stiff, like a puppet being pulled by strings.


    ¡°Lihua?¡±


    Zhang Tieniu felt something was off and called out a few more times.


    Lihua blankly set Yue Qingqing back in the pushcart and then returned to the pond.


    She stretched out her arms, and with a plop sound, her body forcefully slapped against the water.


    Like a large rock, she sank straight down.


    Zhang Tieniu watched, dumbfounded, and it took him a few seconds to react.


    ¡°Are your eyes not working? Such a big pond and you accidentally fell in?¡±


    Yue Jiannan, after all, was not stupid and quickly understood what was happening.


    ¡°I was thinking why Zhang Jinhe seemed crazy, turn out you were luring me away from home? What exactly are you up to?¡±


    Zhang Tieniu struggled in desperation, ¡°It really was an accident, we didn¡¯t do anything.¡±


    ¡°You weren¡¯t trying to steal fish fry from my pond for a dowry, were you? You are really heartless.¡± Yue Jiannan became angrier by the minute, ¡°I¡¯m going to get the village chief, I want to call the police!¡±


    Zhang Tieniu grabbed Yue Jiannan¡¯s sleeve, ¡°No, no, we didn¡¯t even bring a bucket, how could we steal fish fry?¡±


    Yue Jiannan looked at his guilty expression and instantly knew there was a problem, scooped up Yue Qingqing, and turned to find the village chief.


    Zhang Tieniu fumbled for a while and pulled out several crumpled, wet bills from his pocket.


    ¡°We are relatives after all, there¡¯s no need to make it so ugly, look...¡±


    Yue Jiannan sneered, his five parts suspicion immediately became full certainty.


    ¡°You think you can bribe me? No way!¡±


    Yue Jiannan, holding the child in his arms, was calling out all the way, and eventually gathered half the village.


    Upon hearing the situation, the village chief, followed by a crowd eager for drama, angrily headed to Zhang Tieniu¡¯s house to demand justice.


    The door was opened, and Zhang Tieniu had already changed into dry clothes.


    For some reason, Lihua was still dressed in her soaking wet clothes, puddles forming around her feet.


    The village chief made an aggressive start, ¡°Zhang Tieniu, be honest, what were you doing at the Yue family¡¯s pond today?¡±


    Before Zhang Tieniu could respond, Lihua, upon seeing the village chief and Yue Jiannan, who was holding Yue Qingqing, suddenly let out a piercing scream.


    ¡°A ghost! No, not a ghost, she¡¯s a demon! Burn her quickly!¡±

 Chapter 58 - 58 Has Niu Lihua Gone Mad?

    Chapter 58: Chapter 58 Has Niu Lihua Gone Mad?


    Everyone at the scene jolted at the shout.


    Zhang Tieniu¡¯s face turned white, wishing he could slap Niu Lihua twice.


    They should be thinking of ways to muddle through the situation, yet this woman was still making a fuss.@@@@


    Village Chief Zhang frowned, ¡°Don¡¯t talk nonsense. It¡¯s a new era; there are no ghosts or monsters.¡±


    Niu Lihua, as if deaf, opened her mouth wide and issued a gurgling noise from her throat, clearly terrified to the extreme.


    Yue Jiannan looked bewildered. ¡°What nonsense are you spouting? Do you think you can fool anyone with this act?¡±


    ...


    As he spoke and moved closer, Niu Lihua was so frightened that she fell down on her buttocks and started to crawl backwards using all four limbs.


    ¡°Get lost, get away, don¡¯t come any closer.¡±


    Yue Jiannan was frustrated. He might not be strikingly handsome, but he was at least well-featured. Did he deserve to be treated like some vile monster?


    Yue Qingqing knew she was the one Niu Lihua was afraid of, and she even curved her eyes in a smile at Niu Lihua.


    To others, it was a cute and obedient smile, but to Niu Lihua, it seemed like a monster baring its fangs, eliciting another round of screams.


    ¡°Forget it, I can¡¯t be bothered to haggle with you. Twenty it is.¡±


    Yue Jiannan pocketed the money and took Yue Qingqing home.


    Seeing that there was no more excitement to be had, the crowd gradually dispersed.


    They took the sensational news of Niu Lihua¡¯s madness back to their neighbors.


    How could someone just go mad out of the blue?


    Zhang Jinhe only came back in the evening, kicking the door open, his voice distorted with anger.


    ¡°What the hell did you two do? Why is the whole village saying mother has gone mad?¡±


    The house was in darkness, Zhang Tieniu frowned as he sat by the table, Niu Lihua was hunched over in a corner of the wall, shivering continuously.


    Seeing that no one responded, Zhang Jinhe grew angrier and more annoyed, ¡°Do you realize Xiaoling¡¯s family wants to call off the marriage unless the bride price is doubled? Otherwise, they¡¯ll abort the child tomorrow.¡±


    On a normal day, Zhang Tieniu would have jumped to his feet, but the series of bizarre events from today had deflated his spirit.


    ¡°Let them abort it then. Our family can¡¯t even come up with the original bride price, let alone double it.¡±


    Zhang Jinhe was furious, ¡°What? Then what did you two do all day? Where is the jade pendant?¡±


    Zhang Tielin glanced at Niu Lihua, ¡°We didn¡¯t get the jade pendant, and your mother... she¡¯s gone mad.¡±


    It was just an excuse he had made up on the spur of the moment, but now, looking at Niu Lihua, it seemed that she truly had gone mad.

 Chapter 59 - 59 Qingqing is Sick

    Chapter 59: Chapter 59 Qingqing is Sick


    Yue Jiannan triumphantly brought Yue Qingqing back home.


    He recounted the event and, as if presenting a treasure, dug out two ¡°Great Unity¡± banknotes from his pocket.


    ¡°Mom, look!¡±


    Looking at her son who was beaming with joy, Lin Chunju frowned tightly and showed no intention of taking the money.


    ¡°Give me Qingqing.¡±@@@@


    Lin Chunju took her granddaughter from Yue Jiannan¡¯s hands and carefully examined her.


    ...


    Yue Jiannan, puzzled, said, ¡°Mom, when I went there, Qingqing was sitting well in the stroller.¡±


    Lin Chunju scolded, ¡°Idiot, can¡¯t you use your brain to think? If it was just an accident that she fell into the pond, it would have been good enough if Zhang Tieniu didn¡¯t ask our family for compensation, let alone happily give you money. Clearly, he wanted to calm the situation down.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Yue Jiannan suddenly realized something.


    ¡°I... How did I not think of that.¡±


    He stood frozen like a pillar.


    Lin Chunju, too lazy to deal with her self-proclaimed clever son, finally found a faint red mark on the back of Yue Qingqing¡¯s neck.


    It was obviously strangled unexpectedly.


    ¡°Mom, I was wrong. You should hit me.¡±


    Lin Chunju¡¯s face turned iron blue, ¡°Not every mistake can be fixed this way. You are no longer a child. You must think before you act!¡±


    Luckily, Qingqing is no ordinary child; if it had been anyone else, today¡¯s outcome might have been very different.


    Even though she suspected that Niu Lihua might have been scared insane, Lin Chunju still felt it was not enough.


    That someone could harm even such a small child, a person like that is a scourge just by being alive!


    When the brothers returned home in the evening, Yue Jiannan took the initiative to talk about the incident, head bowed, face filled with shame, like a criminal waiting for judgment.


    However, Yue Jiandong couldn¡¯t care less about blaming him, ¡°How is Qingqing now?¡±


    Zhang Ying pursed her lips, feeling very upset, ¡°She has a fever. We had a doctor come in the afternoon. He said she¡¯s too small for medication; she can only endure it.¡±


    ¡°Brother, it¡¯s all my fault. I didn¡¯t take good care of Qingqing.¡± Yue Jiannan was so distressed that he hadn¡¯t even touched a drop of water since the afternoon.


    The usually lively little niece now lay in bed with her eyes closed, her complexion dreadfully pale.


    And all this was due to his neglect.


    The Yue Family was unaware of the real reason, simply assuming the child had been frightened.


    Yue Jiandong sighed, seeing his brother¡¯s distress and not reprimanding him further.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to check on Qingqing.¡±


    He approached the bed, reached out to feel her temperature, and found his daughter¡¯s forehead burning hot.


    This was the first time Qingqing had fallen ill since they had adopted her.

 Chapter 60 - 60 Shooting Yourself in the Foot

    Chapter 60: Chapter 60 Shooting Yourself in the Foot


    The consequences of overusing Spiritual Power were very serious.


    Yue Qingqing had been lying in bed for three whole days, having all sorts of strange dreams.


    In her dreams, she met her master, who unlike the otherworldly figure that other cultivators imagined, looked very much like a farmer from the mortal realm.


    Always wearing a dusty cotton-padded jacket with his grizzled beard trailing down to his chest, he had to be careful not to dip it into his soup when he drank.


    Yue Qingqing couldn¡¯t help but want to complain.


    ...@@@@


    Though he had long ceased to need mortal food, her master still liked to sneak her into villages in the mortal realm.


    Using Curse Techniques to steal mundane food from people¡¯s stoves to share with her.


    Sometimes the household didn¡¯t notice the silver hidden in the firewood pile and thought it was a weasel stealing their food.


    In her dream, her master was smiling and chatting with her.


    ¡°Qingqing, do you like the life you have now?¡± he asked.


    Yue Qingqing nodded and then shook her head, ¡°I like it, but it¡¯s a pity that you and my senior brother are not here.¡±


    Her master laughed heartily, his beard trembling.


    Then... Yue Qingqing heard an anxious voice beside her ear.


    ¡°Her eyelids twitched, seems like she¡¯s waking up.¡±


    She slowly opened her eyes to see Yue Jiannan¡¯s worried face before her.


    He looked nothing like the vigorous youth he usually was, with messy hair and cracked lips, dark circles under his eyes.


    Yue Qingqing noticed changes in her father¡¯s appearance as well, the stubble rubbing her cheek had grown longer.


    Because of her condition, no one in the Yue Family could relax, even Yue Xingxing scarcely played outside the courtyard, frequently coming by the bed to check on her.


    Wondering why her older sister was always lying in bed.


    At dinner time, the house was filled with laughter that had been absent for a long time.


    After a while, Yue Qingqing learned bits and pieces about what happened to Zhang Tieniu¡¯s family through conversations with her family members.


    Niu Lihua may or may not have gone mad, but people in the village found she never stepped foot outside her house again.


    Her son¡¯s marriage unexpectedly didn¡¯t fall through.


    After failing to gather enough for the bride price, the bride¡¯s family threatened to make their daughter terminate the pregnancy, but Zhang Jinhe actually took a knife and ran to their doorstep.


    Claiming that if she didn¡¯t marry him, he would kill the whole family.


    Zhang Tieniu stayed indoors and did nothing to stop his son¡¯s reckless behavior.


    The bride¡¯s family, originally only wanting more money, didn¡¯t want to risk a life and had no choice but to marry their daughter into the Zhang Family.


    Under the threat of Zhang Jinhe, the wedding was hastily arranged with not many banquets set.


    People said that neither family was happy at the wedding, with Niu Lihua not showing her face at all.


    The bride¡¯s family argued about the bride price even as they sent their daughter away.


    Zhang Jinhe revealed the knife tucked in his waistband, compelling the bride¡¯s family to hand over their daughter with trepidation.


    This was not making relatives; it was almost the same as making enemies!


    The Yue Family watched coldly from the side, predicting that Zhang Tieniu¡¯s family would not have good days ahead.


    This was the retribution for evil deeds, trying to scheme against others, only to lift a rock and crush their own feet.

 Chapter 61: Lin Chunju鈥檚 Worries

    Chapter 61: Chapter 61: Lin Chunju¡¯s Worries


    If one carefully measured, last time¡¯s excessive use of Spiritual Energy wasn¡¯t entirely without benefits.


    Yue Qingqing discovered that her meridians seemed to have widened slightly, and although she hadn¡¯t advanced in level, the Spiritual Energy she could mobilize after recovery was more abundant than before.


    Indeed, in moments of crisis, one often realizes their potential, which is why many cultivators from her previous life always went out to experience the world, walking on the edge of life and death.


    Time quietly slipped away when no one was paying attention, and in the blink of an eye, several months had passed.


    Feeling her own weakness, Yue Qingqing practiced with exceptional diligence.


    She always tried her best, using pouting, acting cute, and her gaze, to convince the Yue Family to take her outside to better sense the Spiritual Energy of heaven and earth.


    ...


    Yue Jiannan originally didn¡¯t dare to take her to the fish pond again, but Lin Chunju forcefully persuaded him to take her out a few times.


    As Lin Chunju put it, ¡°If you choke on food once, will you never eat again? Where¡¯s the logic in that?¡±


    Yue Jiannan had no choice but to obediently take Yue Qingqing out, but he didn¡¯t dare leave her side for even a step.


    Yue Jiandong and Yue Jianxi were at their wits¡¯ end with Yue Qingqing but occasionally took her to the fields.


    She would sit quietly on the cart without crying or fussing, like an old monk in meditation.


    This behavior astonished many people, and they marveled that the Yue girl was not ordinary.


    Beyond sensing Spiritual Energy, Yue Qingqing also heard many local gossips.


    Every family had its own joys and sorrows, but for the Yue Family, time seemed to pass even faster.


    The two young children at home learned to walk and gradually began to speak some simple words.


    Yue Qingqing, fearing exposing herself, followed Yue Xiaohu¡¯s lead completely.


    When Yue Xiaohu progressed to shaky but upright walking, Yue Qingqing tentatively took her first steps.


    After Yue Xiaohu finally mumbled the words ¡°dad¡± and ¡°mom,¡± Yue Qingqing naturally followed suit.


    When Zhang Ying heard her daughter¡¯s voice, she held her and cried for a while.


    For this poor woman, that call of ¡°mom¡± was probably the most moving sound in the world.


    Walking and talking greatly facilitated Yue Qingqing, allowing her to further expand her range of activity.


    From then on, she needed no adult to carry her, as she could walk with her little short legs to the outer courtyard and observe the thin yet real swirl of Spiritual Energy in the air.


    The children in the family grew day by day, but this touched upon another concern for Lin Chunju.


    The date of Yue Xiaofang¡¯s delivery was drawing nearer!


    In recent times, Yue Xiaofang had returned a few times, and each time Ma Jinbao was with her, appearing much more compliant and careful with the Yue Family.


    But Lin Chunju didn¡¯t let her guard down in the slightest.


    Finally, as the days neared Yue Xiaofang¡¯s expected delivery date, Lin Chunju would lean against the doorway every morning, waiting for news from Jinshan Village.


    But no word came from Ma Jinbao¡¯s family...

 Chapter 62: It Should Have Been Born by Now

    Chapter 62: Chapter 62: It Should Have Been Born by Now


    Early this morning, Lin Chunju felt her right eyelid twitching non-stop, making her restless.


    After the meal, she stopped Yue Jiandong.


    ¡°Let the second brother go to the field alone today, you come with me to Jinshan Village,¡± she said.


    Yue Jiandong had been observing his mother¡¯s behavior for a while and immediately understood.


    ¡°Alright, shall we set off now?¡± he asked.


    Lin Chunju nodded, ¡°My chest feels tight, and I¡¯m just not comfortable. I¡¯m worried something has happened at Xiaofang¡¯s.¡±


    ...


    In those days, childbirth was extremely dangerous for women, like passing through the Ghost Gate Pass.


    While many women in cities nowadays give birth in hospitals, village women still have to rely on midwives as they did in the past.


    If complications arise during childbirth, even the most experienced midwife is not a doctor, and many lives are lost that way.


    Wang Xiaoni tried to comfort her, ¡°Mother, don¡¯t worry, she probably just hasn¡¯t given birth yet. Otherwise, someone from Jinshan Village would have surely brought us word.¡±


    Lin Chunju sighed, ¡°I can¡¯t help but worry...¡±


    Yet, spoken to like that, she again began to doubt whether she was overreacting.


    It was autumn now, the season of harvest.


    Everyone was busy getting the mature crops from the fields into the barns for drying, lest an unexpected rainstorm renders a half year¡¯s hard work in vain.


    It was also known as the rush of autumn, almost the most important time of the year.


    On the other hand, the fish in the pond would take another month or two to grow big enough to catch, and it was hard to predict the actual yield.


    Yue Jiandong, also anxious about his sister, hurriedly followed her out the door.


    The two of them also took Yue Qingqing with them, which comforted Lin Chunju a bit.


    This time the journey to Jinshan Village was during autumn, and the road was free of ice and snow, which made the travel much smoother.


    Driven by their anxiety, practically wishing they had an extra pair of legs, they arrived at Jinshan Village in almost half the time it took before.


    Just as they reached the entrance to the village, they happened to run into an acquaintance.


    ¡°Village Chief Ma!¡± Lin Chunju called out.


    Ma Shulin turned around, recognized them, and his face immediately lit up with a smile.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you Yue Xiaofang¡¯s family? Are you here to see your daughter?¡± he said.


    ¡°Yes, Xiaofang is due to give birth soon, right? We waited a long time without any news, so we decided to come and see for ourselves,¡± Lin Chunju explained.


    Ma Shulin was aware of how much this family cared for their daughter, ¡°That¡¯s what I thought, coming over during the busy farming season. But she probably hasn¡¯t given birth yet; I haven¡¯t heard of any good news from Ma Jinbao¡¯s family.¡±


    In those days, families with newborns, even if they couldn¡¯t afford a feast, would at least give some red eggs to their close neighbors in the village as a token of good fortune.


    Hearing Ma Shulin say this, Lin Chunju relaxed, thinking she might have been overly anxious.


    However, while they were talking, a woman passing by with a basket overheard their conversation and butted in.


    ¡°That¡¯s impossible, is your daughter the one married to Ma Jinbao, the woman from outside the village?¡±


    Lin Chunju felt a tightening in her chest, ¡°Yes, yes, my daughter¡¯s name is Yue Xiaofang.¡±


    ¡°The day before yesterday, Ma Jinbao¡¯s family already called for the midwife. The child should have been born by now,¡± said the woman.


    Lin Chunju panicked, while Yue Jiandong, supporting his mother¡¯s arm, asked in a grave voice, ¡°Are you sure there¡¯s no mistake?¡±


    The woman rolled her eyes, ¡°Can¡¯t be wrong. The midwife is my sister-in-law, been in the profession for many years. She told me it was strange how the Ma Family asked her to come over quietly at night without alerting anyone.¡±

 Chapter 63 - 63 Gathering and Scattering of Thunder

    Chapter 63: Chapter 63 Gathering and Scattering of Thunder


    Adding a child to the family is a joyous occasion; every birth is cause for celebration.


    But who ever heard of a midwife making a midnight call, insisting on silence?


    Sensing something amiss, Lin Chunju¡¯s body wouldn¡¯t stop trembling.


    Ma Shulin hurriedly offered comfort, ¡°Big sister-in-law, don¡¯t worry. Let¡¯s go over to Ma Jinbao¡¯s place right now.¡±


    Yue Jiandong saw his mother about to collapse and promptly picked up Yue Qingqing from her arms, while supporting his mother with his other hand as they headed towards Ma Jinbao¡¯s house.


    The woman who had been talking also realized something was wrong.


    ...


    It was highly unusual for a child to be born without the maternal family being notified. There surely must be something fishy going on.


    This woman was also known for her love of gossip, which was why she had struck up a conversation with Lin Chunju and the others.


    She quickly called over a few sisters with a similar fondness for excitement, and they all followed along.


    The village men were mostly out rushing to harvest their crops, while the women sat in front of their houses, washing clothes or sewing shoe soles.


    Looking up and seeing this group in a hurry, they immediately asked, ¡°Where are you all off to in such a hurry?¡±


    The woman in the lead explained the situation, and these others also became intrigued. Dropping their work, they followed as well.


    Soon after, a crowd of women was trailing behind Lin Chunju and the others.


    Lin Chunju was beside herself with anxiety, no longer able to manage the crowd.


    Meanwhile, inside Ma Jinbao¡¯s house,


    Ma Cuicui collapsed to the ground, bursting into tears.


    ¡°Mom, it¡¯s too terrifying, I can¡¯t do this anymore, I don¡¯t want to be struck by lightning.¡±


    Li Zhao Di was also startled but still cursed vehemently, ¡°Nonsense, you good-for-nothing girl, hurry up. Don¡¯t let Yue Xiaofang¡¯s family come knocking.¡±


    Ma Cuicui shook her head desperately, ¡°No, if you want to do it, you do it yourself. I don¡¯t want to touch her.¡±


    She was acutely aware that if she truly made a move, that rumbling thunder would surely strike down on her without mercy.


    Not far away, on the bed, Yue Xiaofang lay unconscious, her body drenched in sweat, the bloodstained sheet beneath her drying, with more breaths out than in.


    But Li Zhao Di was still not at ease, fearing that the daughter-in-law¡¯s family would come looking for them, and that Yue Xiaofang would wake up and accuse them.


    She had experienced their ruthlessness before, and if these people found out what had happened, her own life would likely be at stake.


    Frustratingly, Ma Cuicui was as timid as a mouse, scared into sitting on the ground by a mere thunderclap, so utterly useless.


    The voice of Ma Zhuzi came from the outer room, ¡°Stop the noise and get this dealt with quickly.¡±


    Li Zhao Di had no choice but to glare fiercely at her daughter, then picked up the pillow that Ma Cuicui had inadvertently dropped on the floor.


    ¡°Get out of the way; it seems I must do this myself.¡±


    Step by step, she approached the bed, looking down at Yue Xiaofang from her imposing height.


    ¡°It¡¯s your own fault for giving birth to a money-losing good-for-nothing. Better luck in your next life,¡± she said.


    After her words, the pillow in her hand descended.

 Chapter 64: The Missing Child

    Chapter 64: Chapter 64: The Missing Child


    Boom!


    Outside the window, a sudden peal of thunder coincided with the sound of the door being kicked open.


    Ma Zhuzi¡¯s pipe fell to the ground with a crash.


    ¡°Who is it!¡±


    At the door, Lin Chunju stumbled in.


    ¡°Xiaofang, Xiaofang, where are you?¡±


    ...


    Yue Jiandong, holding Yue Qingqing, hurriedly followed, with Ma Shulin standing behind him and many of the village women who loved a spectacle.


    These women were all speaking at once.


    ¡°What just happened? How did it suddenly start thundering when it was clear just a moment ago?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s as if the heaven is angry.¡±


    ¡°Eh, what a strong smell of blood, did Ma Jinbao¡¯s family just slaughter a chicken?¡±


    The leader of the women immediately realized something, ¡°It¡¯s not a chicken, it¡¯s that this woman has just given birth.¡±


    While they chattered outside, Lin Chunju searched from one room to another and finally found the room where Yue Xiaofang was.


    Ma Cuicui sat on the ground, with Li Zhaodi standing beside her, frozen like a statue.


    A pillow was thrown on the floor, and the daughter, whose life or death was uncertain, lay on the bed.


    Watching the Yue family leave, Ma Shulin glared menacingly at Li Zhaodi.


    ¡°You better explain yourselves clearly; she is in this state, why didn¡¯t you send her to the clinic?¡±


    Li Zhaodi, who had been shivering ever since the Yue family entered, found her courage again now that they were gone.


    ¡°Mayor Ma, which childbirth isn¡¯t perilous? It¡¯s just a little sickness and pain.¡±


    This heart-wrenching statement was too much even for the bystanders.


    All that blood on the bed¡ªcould a mother-in-law really just stand by and watch indifferently? Is she even human?


    The leading woman said sarcastically, ¡°Your daughter-in-law was almost dying from childbirth the day before yesterday, and you let her suffer at home for two days? How is this different from murder?¡±


    Feeling guilty, Li Zhaodi hid the pillow behind her back.


    ¡°You gossiping wretch, stop spreading lies; how did I commit murder?¡±


    Seeing her reaction, onlookers immediately began to speculate.


    Why is she trembling? Maybe there¡¯s truth to the accusation? If Yue Xiaofang¡¯s family hadn¡¯t arrived, she probably would have died in Ma Jinbao¡¯s house.


    Ma Shulin suddenly realized something was amiss, ¡°You just gave birth the day before yesterday, where¡¯s the baby?¡±


    This shocked everyone, and they only then realized¡ªfor a woman who just gave birth lying on the bed, why was there no sign of a baby?


    After such a big commotion upon their arrival, not even a cry was heard.


    Just then, a metallic clanging sound came from the entrance.


    The crowd looked up and saw Ma Jinbao, who hadn¡¯t appeared until now, coming home.


    In his hand, he held an iron shovel, and upon closer inspection, fresh mud was still clinging to it.

 Chapter 65: Call the Police

    Chapter 65: Chapter 65: Call the Police


    Everyone¡¯s gaze stiffly followed the iron shovel, a terrifying conjecture spreading in their minds.


    ¡°Ma Jinbao!¡±


    With a roar from the village chief, Ma Jinbao looked up, only then realizing so many people had come to his home.


    His first instinct was to turn and run.


    Ma Shulin, without a word, chased after him.


    ...


    Although Ma Jinbao was much younger than the village chief, Ma Shulin had a father who was a soldier, and he had developed his speed chasing after his father every day.


    It didn¡¯t take long before Ma Jinbao was kicked to the ground.


    ¡°Why are you running?¡±


    Ma Jinbao stammered, ¡°I... I got startled by you all.¡±@@@@


    The onlookers caught up and bombarded Ma Jinbao with questions.


    ¡°Your wife is sick in bed after giving birth, where did you go?¡±


    ¡°Where is your child? Why is there no sight of him?¡±


    ¡°What were you going to do with that iron shovel just now?¡±


    Ma Jinbao couldn¡¯t answer any of them, sitting on the ground with his head lowered.


    Li Zhaodi and Ma Zhuzi arrived, gasping for breath, with Li Zhaodi protecting her son.


    ¡°What are you doing, Chief? He¡¯s not a criminal. What¡¯s the meaning of this?¡±


    ¡°Xiaofang, don¡¯t move, you¡¯re still on IV,¡± Lin Chunju quickly held down her daughter¡¯s hand.


    It took a lot of effort from Yue Jiandong to rewrap his sister in the blanket, preventing her from thrashing around.


    Yue Xiaofang struggled incessantly, knocking the IV stand almost to the point of falling over, prompting the doctor to quickly inject her with a sedative.


    After a moment, Yue Xiaofang lay back limply on the bed, finally quieting down.


    Yue Qingqing noticed that her breathing was very unstable, indicating she was on the verge of collapse.


    Lin Chunju¡¯s voice choked with sobs, ¡°Such sin... such sin.¡±


    From Yue Xiaofang¡¯s demeanor and screams, they could roughly guess the reason.


    Yue Xiaofang had likely given birth to a daughter, and this child was probably already...


    The clinic fell silent, the doctor had already gone out quietly, leaving only the Yue Family members inside.


    After an indeterminable amount of time, Yue Xiaofang awoke again.


    But this time, she seemed as if all her vitality had been drained from her, numbly staring at the ceiling, silent.


    Lin Chunju and Yue Jiandong didn¡¯t dare to provoke her and didn¡¯t speak.


    Lin Chunju stayed by the bedside, gently stroking her daughter¡¯s hair.


    Yue Qingqing sat obediently on a stool beside her, suddenly turning towards the door.


    ¡°Someone¡¯s coming.¡±


    The door opened, and Ma Shulin walked in with two men wearing police uniforms.


    One of them saluted and looked towards the woman on the bed.


    ¡°Hello, may I ask if this is Yue Xiaofang and her family?¡±

 Chapter 66 - 66 How to Have a Baby?

    Chapter 66: Chapter 66 How to Have a Baby?


    People of this era harbored an instinctive fear of the police.


    Lin Chunju glanced at the two men, hesitated, and asked, ¡°Have you come to...¡±


    The two police officers were one tall and one short.


    The taller one noticed Lin Chunju¡¯s concern and introduced himself, ¡°My name is Ma Qiang, an officer from the Jinshan Village police station.¡±


    The shorter one also introduced himself, ¡°I¡¯m Fang Ming.¡±


    The two presented their police badges, which Lin Chunju took and examined carefully.


    ...


    Village Chief Ma glanced at Yue Xiaofang, who lay on the sickbed, sighed in his heart, and said to Lin Chunju, ¡°Sister-in-law, I called the police, have Xiaofang talk to them, what exactly happened?¡±


    Fang Ming stood beside the bed, notebook in hand, ready to take notes.


    Yue Xiaofang, however, still had vacant eyes, as if she hadn¡¯t seen him at all.


    Ma Qiang could only turn to Lin Chunju, signaling her to communicate with her daughter.


    Lin Chunju whispered, ¡°Xiaofang, tell the police comrades what happened.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang¡¯s eyes moved slightly, but she did not speak.


    Suddenly, Yue Qingqing stepped forward, lifted her arm, struggled to reach over the sickbed and grasped Yue Xiaofang¡¯s hand.


    The more Village Chief Ma pondered deeply, the more he felt a chill run down his spine, not to mention the Yue family.


    A clicking sound came from the room, which was actually Yue Jiandong clenching his fists tightly.


    ¡°I want to kill those beasts!¡±


    He charged towards the door but was intercepted by Ma Qiang before he could reach it.


    ¡°Comrade, calm down a bit, let¡¯s first thoroughly investigate the situation,¡± Ma Qiang said.


    Lin Chunju called out, ¡°Come back! Have you forgotten what mother told you?¡±


    Yue Jiandong felt as if he was back in that late night, with his mother standing at the door, earnestly telling him not to let hatred blind him.


    But... but his sister was already in this state.


    He would rather exchange his own life for the lives of those beasts.


    In the end, Yue Jiandong did not leave the house, which relieved the two officers present.


    But they too were somewhat worried.


    ¡°But on that day, only the Ma Jinbao family and Yue Xiaofang were in the room, and now each side has their own version of the story...¡±


    The Ma Jinbao family would definitely not admit to Yue Xiaofang¡¯s account.


    Yue Qingqing was still holding Yue Xiaofang¡¯s hand, naively asking, ¡°Auntie, how do you have a baby?¡±


    Fang Ming shook his head; such a young child had no idea what had happened and could only repeat the adults¡¯ words.


    Yet Ma Qiang suddenly had an idea, ¡°Giving birth requires a midwife. Aside from them, the midwife must know the real situation; we have to find this person!¡±

 Chapter 67: It鈥檚 Not Easy to Get Justice

    Chapter 67: Chapter 67: It¡¯s Not Easy to Get Justice


    Ma Qiang and Fang Ming had just stepped out of the medical office when they were stopped by Ma Zhuzi.


    ¡°Police officers, please wait a moment.¡± He caught up to them, fumbling in his coat pocket and pulled out two slender city cigarettes, stuffing them into their hands.


    Fang Ming replied coldly, ¡°I don¡¯t smoke.¡± and returned the cigarettes to him.


    Ma Qiang, on the other hand, took one but simply rolled it between his fingers, eyeing Ma Zhuzi with a meaningful look.


    ¡°What do you want with us?¡±


    Ma Zhuzi seemed to recognize Ma Qiang, smiling all over his face, ¡°I didn¡¯t realize until I got closer, you¡¯re Ma Liu¡¯s son, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    ...


    In Jinshan Village, most of those surnamed Ma knew each other, and their relationships could be traced back several generations.


    Hearing Ma Zhuzi¡¯s words, Ma Qiang said with a half-smile, ¡°Yeah, should I be calling you ¡®Uncle¡¯ according to our seniority?¡±


    Ma Zhuzi grinned, looking honest, ¡°You¡¯re working for the government; I couldn¡¯t possibly accept you addressing me like that. I just wanted to ask how Xiaofang is doing?¡±


    Jinshan Village was expansive, and in their line of duty, they would often rely on the bicycles uniformly provided by the government.


    With a push on the pedals, the two officers quickly vanished from Ma Zhuzi¡¯s view.


    He stood up straight and looked in the direction the police had left, with a faint smile emerging at the corner of his mouth.


    After riding a great distance, Fang Ming couldn¡¯t help but comment, ¡°This man seems honest enough on the surface, but I didn¡¯t expect him to be so articulate.¡±


    Actually, before questioning Yue Xiaofang, they had learned about the situation from Ma Shulin and some other villagers of Jinshan Village.


    They were well aware of how Ma Jinbao¡¯s family had mistreated Yue Xiaofang.


    From their experience in handling cases, discerning right from wrong wasn¡¯t difficult; just by asking several villagers and observing the behavior of those involved, they could make a quick judgement.


    Ma Qiang¡¯s demeanor changed from relaxed to serious as he looked into the distance.


    ¡°I have a premonition that Ma Zhuzi¡¯s family might be even smarter than we think. It won¡¯t be so easy for Yue Xiaofang to get justice.¡±


    Their voices were lost in the wind as the wheels continued to roll on the ground, dissipating into a sigh behind them.


    Cases like this were not unique. In these times, it was all too difficult for girls to be born safely.


    What was even more unfathomable was that those who often snatched away their lives were family members tied by the same blood.

 Chapter 68: Obtaining the Truth

    Chapter 68: Chapter 68: Obtaining the Truth


    Two police officers found her sister-in-law through Pan Xiaoyue, who was the leader of the previously gathered onlookers.


    With the sound of determined knocking, a middle-aged woman with her long hair wrapped in a headscarf opened the door.


    She was startled to see the policemen at the door.


    ¡°What are you doing at my house?¡±


    Pan Xiaoyue squeezed in, ¡°Sister-in-law, the village chief asked me to bring the police to ask about Ma Jinbao¡¯s family situation.¡±


    The midwife¡¯s brows immediately furrowed deeply, stepping aside.


    ...


    ¡°Come in and talk.¡±


    Sitting in the outer room, Fang Ming took out a notebook and got straight to the point, ¡°Were you the midwife who delivered the baby that day?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°When did you go there?¡±


    ¡°The evening before last, it was already dark when I went.¡±


    Fang Ming asked again, ¡°When was the childbirth?¡±


    ¡°It had already started by the time I arrived, Ma Zhuzi secretly found me.¡± The midwife glanced at Pan Xiaoyue.


    If it hadn¡¯t been for running into Pan Xiaoyue just as she was leaving, who always had a nosy nature and insisted on delving into everything, probably no one else would have known about this incident.


    Not calling a midwife in advance was done for the convenience of committing the deed.


    Little did they know, Yue Xiaofang would struggle in her labor, with the baby stubbornly refusing to come out as if foreseeing the impending doom.


    Fearing the possibility of a son dying in the womb, the Ma Jinbao family had no choice but to call a midwife in a hurry.


    When the midwife saw Yue Xiaofang, she was already hanging on to half a life but still insistently protecting the child in her womb.


    However, the birth of the child nearly took the rest of her life as well.


    All Yue Xiaofang could do was watch helplessly as the midwife handed her daughter over to Li Zhaodi, who then turned and left the house with the baby.


    What happened after that, the midwife did not know, as the Ma Jinbao family gave her a sum of money to keep her quiet and sent her away.


    Now aware of the facts, the two police officers decided to leave.


    Pan Xiaoyue, who was usually talkative, for once remained silent throughout the whole ordeal.


    After being escorted to the door by her sister-in-law, she heard the midwife, who had been in her profession for many years, suddenly talking to herself.


    ¡°I will never do this job again.¡±


    The midwife would never forget how Yue Xiaofang had pleaded hoarsely and desperately just to have her child returned to her by Li Zhaodi.


    In this world, for a little girl to survive was difficult, but for a woman to live was even harder.


    Stepping outside, Ma Qiang waved Fang Ming over.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go, it¡¯s time to find the Ma Jinbao family and settle this.¡±


    ¡°Right, and let¡¯s get the Yue Family involved too; they deserve to know the truth.¡±

 Chapter 69: Sand in the Eyes

    Chapter 69: Chapter 69: Sand in the Eyes


    In the medical room, Yue Qingqing looked at Yue Xiaofang, who was silently shedding tears, and felt very uncomfortable.


    She couldn¡¯t help but sigh.


    Originally, the family of Ma Jinbao swore that if they abused Yue Xiaofang, not only would their entire family suffer bad luck, but they would also be struck dead by lightning.


    But the Yue Family had never anticipated that this family would actually harm their own flesh and blood.


    Such an action was utterly beastly, yet it did not break their oath.


    Lin Chunju sat by the bed, hugging her daughter¡¯s shoulders and humming a song softly just like when she was a child, carefully soothing her.


    ...@@@@


    Yue Xiaofang had lost the emotions she had shown earlier in front of the police and now leaned against her mother like a puppet.


    Her expression was numb, yet tears continued to flow down her cheeks.


    At that moment, the door of the medical room was pushed open, and the doctor came in.


    ¡°Xiaofang, Village Chief Ma asked your family to go to the open space in front of the village committee,¡± he said.


    Yue Jiandong and Lin Chunju exchanged glances, guessing that the police had probably found out the truth.


    Having sharp ears, Li Zhaodi immediately heard the comments and yelled at the speakers, ¡°Nonsense! What rubbish are you spouting? Yue Xiaofang, that wretched girl, gave birth to a loss-making child. She deserves to die.¡±


    Before she finished her sentence, Li Zhaodi¡¯s stomach was fiercely kicked, causing her to fall to the ground.


    Lin Chunju straddled her, punching frantically.


    This time Lin Chunju was much more fierce. Li Zhaodi felt like her nose was about to break as blood trickled down, covering her face with a bloody mess.


    When Ma Jinbao saw his mother mistreated, he raised his arm to strike Lin Chunju.


    Before he could reach her, Yue Jiandong punched him square in the chest, making him feel as though his bones had cracked.


    The villagers were agape, finding the scene eerily familiar.


    However, although the Yue Family had fought fiercely before, they had always pulled their punches.


    This time, both Lin Chunju and Yue Jiandong were fighting with lethal intent.


    The ground soon became stained with dots of fresh blood. Ma Cuicui, terrified, screamed incessantly.


    Ma Jinbao and Li Zhaodi had no strength even to scream and felt they were moments away from being beaten to death.


    Ma Zhuzi hurriedly turned to Ma Qiang, ¡°Police comrade, they are beating people! Hurry... arrest them.¡±


    Ma Qiang rubbed his eyes and asked Fang Ming, ¡°The sandstorm is so strong this autumn. Could you see if there¡¯s sand in my eyes too? I can¡¯t see a thing.¡±


    Fang Ming glanced at the two people gasping for air, coughed and said, ¡°Not just you, my eyes seem to have gotten sand in them as well.¡±

 Chapter 70: Time for Popularizing Law

    Chapter 70: Chapter 70: Time for Popularizing Law


    A moment later, the police had persuaded the Yue family to disperse.


    After all, they couldn¡¯t really beat someone to death, as that would cost them their own lives.


    Ma Jinbao and Li Zhaodi could hardly stand up anymore, their appearances too miserable for words.


    Yet thinking about what they had done, it was impossible to feel any sympathy for them.


    Ma Shulin asked Lin Chunju, ¡°How is Xiaofang doing?¡±


    Lin Chunju¡¯s eyes were slightly red, ¡°Not good, she¡¯s still lying in bed.¡±


    ...


    Not speaking, not uttering a word, just staring blankly.


    Ma Shulin also felt terrible, ¡°It¡¯s my fault, I should have paid more attention back then.¡±


    ¡°How can this be blamed on you? They were intent on taking my daughter¡¯s life, being more cautious wouldn¡¯t have made a difference.¡±


    While they were talking, Ma Qiang announced the investigation results in front of the whole village.


    Upon hearing that it was another newborn girl who had been killed by her family, the villagers showed mixed emotions.


    Some felt the family was too cruel, as despite being a girl, she was still their own child.


    Others felt indifferent; these days a girl was not valued much, dead was just dead.


    ¡°How can the state imprison someone over this?¡±


    Hearing these reactions, Ma Qiang scoffed, ¡°Whether or not you should go to jail for this isn¡¯t up to you, nor is it up to me, it¡¯s up to the law.¡±


    The villagers didn¡¯t understand much about the law, but they naturally held Ma Qiang¡¯s words in awe.


    A couple of years ago during the crackdown, they had heard about some people in other places being shot just for stealing a few dollars.


    Now that Ma Qiang said killing your own child was against the law, although they didn¡¯t understand, they prudently gave up any malicious thoughts.


    Village Chief Ma concluded, ¡°From now on, every family must register with me before a daughter-in-law is due to give birth. The midwife must report to me the day after the birth. If the numbers don¡¯t match up, or if a child dies inexplicably, the family must take responsibility.¡±


    With Ma Qiang¡¯s words as the foundation, the villagers could only nod in agreement, while secretly complaining.


    Heavenly Master, what if it¡¯s really a girl? Please bless our family to have a son.


    After using Ma Jinbao¡¯s family as a vivid example in legal education, Ma Qiang and Fang Ming took out handcuffs, shackled Ma Jinbao and his family, and locked them onto the back seat of a bicycle.


    Ma Zhuzi stiffened his neck, ¡°Officer Comrade, by what right do you treat us like this? The child Yue Xiaofang bore wasn¡¯t killed by us, she died of illness on her own.¡±


    Ma Qiang responded coldly, ¡°Whether it was or wasn¡¯t is still unknown, but you are suspect in her killing; come with me to the station for an investigation.¡±


    Ma Qiang then instructed Fang Ming, ¡°I¡¯ll take the suspects back for interrogation first. You bring a couple of brothers here, and follow the soil on that shovel to find where the body is buried.¡±


    Fang Ming picked up the shovel and acknowledged with a grunt.


    The police leisurely pushed the bicycle, like the parade of prisoners in ancient times, and took them back to the station.


    Li Zhaodi watched her own and her son¡¯s wrists shackled, feeling both enraged and anxious, and she fainted outright.

 Chapter 71 - 71 Red Neck, Painful

    Chapter 71: Chapter 71 Red Neck, Painful


    Although Ma Jinbao¡¯s family was taken to the police station, the case was not yet closed.


    Lin Chunju, however, decided to take her daughter back to Daye Village first.


    Yue Xiaofang¡¯s condition was very wrong.


    These past few days, she knew to open her mouth to eat when she was hungry and to drink water when thirsty, and she would go to the toilet by herself as usual.


    But beyond that, Yue Xiaofang didn¡¯t have any normal behaviors, always staring out the window with a vacant look, for half a day at a time, without even shifting her gaze.


    Lin Chunju had seen this kind of situation when she was young.


    ...


    It was a mother whose child had been kidnapped; after searching for several days without success, she would sit day after day on a dirt pile at the entrance of the village.


    Gazing foolishly into the distance.@@@@


    Lin Chunju¡¯s mother told her that the woman had gone mad.


    Lin Chunju was worried that Yue Xiaofang had also gone mad.


    Yue Qingqing, however, asked Lin Chunju to wait a bit longer, ¡°Grandma, someone might come looking for us later.¡±


    Lin Chunju could only suppress her worries and stay.


    Just as Yue Qingqing had said, shortly afterward, a police officer came to knock on the door of the medical room.


    Before leaving, Ma Qiang specifically came to find them; the tall, thin man seemed somewhat desolate.


    ¡°Ma Zhuzi is very stubborn, admits to nothing, just says the child was a difficult birth and didn¡¯t breathe upon birth, they buried the child early to spare Yue Xiaofang from excessive grief,¡± he said.


    Yue Jiandong angrily responded, ¡°That¡¯s a pack of lies. Then why didn¡¯t they send my sister to the medical room?¡±


    Ma Qiang shook his head, ¡°Ma Zhuzi claimed it was because Yue Xiaofang had just given birth, and they were worried that moving her might cause severe bleeding, planning to wait a couple of days before calling a doctor, just when the in-laws happened to show up.¡±


    Although everyone knew the family was lying, Ma Zhuzi was indeed clever; his lie was seamless, leaving no evidence of murder.


    Ma Qiang, with many years of experience in law enforcement, knew that domestic abuse between family members was often the hardest to prove, and yet the most cruel.


    Especially in this era, many times he felt powerless even with the desire to help.


    The little girl Lin Chunju was holding spoke up.


    ¡°The baby was in pain.¡±


    Ma Qiang was startled, ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    He knew the child, Yue Qingqing, who despite not having asked her exact age, clearly looked to be only one or two years old.


    But through the few encounters they had, he found her to be very intelligent, and even precocious.


    Always well-behaved, not rowdy like other children, but whenever those clear eyes looked at you, it felt like she understood everything.


    Yue Qingqing looked up, pointing to the infant in Yue Xiaofang¡¯s arms.


    ¡°Neck red, pain pain.¡±

 Chapter 72: Want to Talk to Her?

    Chapter 72: Chapter 72: Want to Talk to Her?


    Yue Qingqing¡¯s words were not without merit; her senses were exceptionally keen. From the moment she saw the baby¡¯s corpse, she had noticed what seemed to be marks on its neck.


    However, these marks were almost indiscernible to the naked eye due to the livor mortis.


    As a cultivator, one could investigate the cause and effect of an incident through retrospective spell casting, although the present Yue Qingqing was unable to cast such spells.


    Even if she could cast them, the locals would likely consider her a monster.


    In the era Yue Qingqing lived, among the commoners there was a profession called Death Investigator, who could determine the method of murder by identifying the wounds on a deceased, thereby pinpointing the murderer.


    Oh, if only her third senior brother from the Cultivation Healing Path were here; his meticulous nature would surely have revealed something.


    ...


    Upon Yue Qingqing casually mentioning this, Ma Qiang immediately realized something.


    ¡°Marks on the body? Comrade Yue Xiaofang, could you let me see the child?¡±


    Yue Xiaofang immediately recoiled in fear, as if someone might snatch the infant from her arms.


    Yue Qingqing softly said, ¡°Auntie, the police uncle is catching the bad guy.¡±


    Glazed over, Yue Xiaofang¡¯s gaze shifted, and she handed the baby over.


    Ma Qiang examined the body carefully, yet realized he was no expert; he could not discern anything beneath the livor mortis.


    ¡°Sorry, I can¡¯t really make it out. We need a professional forensic expert for this.¡±


    Until one day, Yue Qingqing squatted next to Yue Xiaofang, looking at her quietly.


    ¡°Auntie.¡±


    Something flickered in Yue Xiaofang¡¯s eyes, and her gaze fell on Yue Qingqing.


    ¡°Would you like to talk to her?¡±


    After a long pause, Yue Xiaofang finally spoke, her voice hoarse from disuse, raspy like gravel.


    ¡°Her? Who is she?¡±


    Yue Qingqing gently took her hand, ¡°The baby, she¡¯s watching you. Do you want to talk to her?¡±


    Yue Xiaofang opened her mouth, thinking she had misheard.


    No, she must have misunderstood, after all, children say the darndest things.


    Even in her grief, she knew the baby had gone to another place and couldn¡¯t possibly be watching her.


    Just as Yue Xiaofang was about to look away, she suddenly felt a pain in her fingertip.


    Yue Qingqing had pricked her with something, causing a drop of blood to roll from her fingertip.


    As this drop of blood hung in the air, it suddenly emitted a dark aura.


    A thrilling sensation rose within her, and Yue Xiaofang heard a crisp voice at her ear.


    ¡°Mommy!¡±

 Chapter 73: The Fate Is Not Yet Over

    Chapter 73: Chapter 73: The Fate Is Not Yet Over


    Yue Xiaofang stared blankly into the air.


    At dusk, the remnants of the setting sun spilled onto the ground, a translucent shadow floating in midair.


    ¡°Treasure, my treasure!¡±


    Although Yue Xiaofang should have felt frightened, the throbbing connection of blood made her eyes brim with tears.@@@@


    She actually knew clearly that the shadow before her was her child who had passed away prematurely.


    ¡°Mom, don¡¯t cry.¡±


    ...


    The shadow moved closer, seemingly trying to wipe Yue Xiaofang¡¯s cheeks with its tiny palms.


    But it couldn¡¯t touch Yue Xiaofang¡¯s face at all and passed right through.


    Yue Xiaofang hurriedly wiped her tears away, feeling lively for the first time in many days.


    ¡°Won¡¯t cry, Mom won¡¯t cry, my treasure is so good.¡±


    ¡°Mom regrets, it¡¯s Mom¡¯s fault for not protecting you, allowing those beasts to harm you.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang looked up, trying hard not to let tears fall, staring unwaveringly ahead.


    ¡°Not at all, Mom is good, I knew it when I was in your belly, you liked me so much, always told me stories, and even stroked me through your belly.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be sad, otherwise I will be sad with you, Mom.¡±


    The child¡¯s voice was very tender, yet it struck Yue Xiaofang¡¯s heart one word at a time.


    Lin Chunju sat by the bed, apparently wiping her tears with the back of her hand, but hurriedly dried her cheeks and smiled upon seeing her awake.


    ¡°Xiaofang, you¡¯re awake? Are you hungry?¡±


    Although she didn¡¯t expect an answer, Yue Xiaofang sat up from the bed and looked at her own hands.


    After moments, she touched her lips.


    Due to not eating or drinking properly these days, her lips were dry and rough, but clearly, there were no wounds on them.


    It must have been a dream then, how silly, even Qingqing appeared in the dream.


    Seeing her daughter like this, Lin Chunju¡¯s grief welled up suddenly, and she gently hugged her daughter¡¯s shoulders.


    ¡°Xiaofang, don¡¯t be sad anymore, the child would hurt too, knowing you are like this.¡±


    It sounded like thunder exploding by Yue Xiaofang¡¯s ear, and she nodded immediately.


    ¡°What Mom said is true, I... I¡¯m not sad anymore.¡±


    Even if it was only a dream, Yue Xiaofang worried that her weakness might worry her treasure, turning her into a lingering ghost, unable to reincarnate.


    ¡°I¡¯m hungry, I want to eat!¡±


    Lin Chunju was overjoyed, ¡°Great, what do you want to eat, I¡¯ll make it for you right now!¡±


    ¡°I want to eat Mom¡¯s fried pancake, put more tenderloin in it.¡± Yue Xiaofang tried to make her voice sound more cheerful.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll have your brother go buy the meat right now.¡±


    Yue Qingqing, who had been sitting quietly in the outer courtyard, looked towards the house unnoticeably and then gazed up at the sky.


    From today onwards, Yue Xiaofang should be able to become stronger.


    As for that child, actually, her bond with Yue Xiaofang was not yet finished, if there is a chance in the future...

 Chapter 74: The Child Who Especially Loves Cleanliness

    Chapter 74: Chapter 74: The Child Who Especially Loves Cleanliness


    Jinshan Village Police Station.


    Ma Qiang waited anxiously, his eyes fixed desperately on the automatic exchange telephone on the desk.


    This was the only telephone in Jinshan Village, specially approved initially to facilitate communication with the city bureau.


    Seeing him like this, Fang Ming couldn¡¯t help but say, ¡°Brother Qiang, you have no relation to the Yue Family, and the day before yesterday you even made a special trip to the city for this. Now, you¡¯re just waiting for a message that might not come. Why bother?¡±


    Ma Qiang glanced at him sidelong, ¡°Do you think I¡¯m doing this for the Yue Family?¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it?¡± Fang Ming asked, puzzled.


    ...


    Ma Qiang snorted through his nose, Forget it, don¡¯t bother arguing with a fool.


    He just hoped the leaders in the city could bring news soon.


    This case was really typical. If it could end well, it would be good news for the girls in the surrounding villages, even those in the city.


    Perhaps it was his deep obsession, but just then the phone suddenly vibrated, and the piercing ringtone sounded.@@@@


    But to Ma Qiang, this noise was like music from heaven; he pounced on it like a hungry tiger leaping at food.


    ¡°Is this Ma Qiang? Yes, the leaders are very concerned about this case. Last night, they arranged for a doctor from the city hospital to come over. They probably set off this morning.¡±


    There was just one thing: Cao Qi was different from them, often appearing somewhat haughty and rarely showing a smile.


    Let alone smiling like today, showing all his teeth.


    ¡°I was ordered to come with Dr. Yan. He is a treasure of the nation; I couldn¡¯t feel at ease not accompanying him.¡±


    Cao Qi eagerly stretched out his hand to welcome them, and only then did the two notice that there were also two other people sitting in the donkey cart.


    Or rather, a man and a teenager.


    The man wore gold-rimmed glasses and had a warm smile, clearly an easy-going person.


    ¡°It really is Dr. Yan.¡± Fang Ming gaped. Yan Qiying¡¯s face had appeared more than once in the newspapers; even a resident of Jinshan Village like him could recognize him at a glance.


    Yan Qiying, completely down-to-earth, smiled at the two men and reached to help the child sitting in the back seat down.


    The boy looked somewhat like Yan Qiying but his expression was sternly mature.


    He shook his head, refusing the offered hand, and with a frown, pulled a pair of semi-transparent gloves from his pocket.


    After blowing them up, he slipped them on and then climbed down the side of the donkey cart by himself.


    Yan Qiying coughed lightly and introduced him to Ma Qiang and his friend, ¡°This is my son, Yan Sinian. The boy is a bit of a clean freak.¡±


    Ma Qiang¡¯s lips twitched, a clean freak? That was the first time he had seen a child so obsessed with cleanliness.


    Despite having traveled on a donkey cart, his clothes were without a single wrinkle, all smoothed down after he got off.


    These days, why did he always run into such unusual children?

 Chapter 75: A Helping Hand?

    Chapter 75: Chapter 75: A Helping Hand?


    ¡°The leaders in the city are taking this case very seriously, and they¡¯ve specially dispatched Doctor Yan to assist. This is a rare opportunity, and you must all perform well.¡±


    Cao Qi, with a stern face, finished instructing his two subordinates before turning his head to face Yan Qiying, where his expression immediately changed.


    ¡°Hehe, Doctor Yan, I¡¯m afraid we¡¯ll have to trouble you again.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s no bother, it¡¯s what I should do.¡±


    Seeing how much respect the director had for Yan Qiying, Ma Qiang felt doubtful. Why bring his son along too?


    If it were just for a free trip, there were surely better places than Jinshan Village.


    ...@@@@


    Unaware of his subordinate¡¯s thoughts, Cao Qi, smiling, said to Yan Qiying, ¡°You must be tired from the journey, shall we go have a meal first? The food at our office is quite good.¡±


    But Yan Qiying waved his hand, ¡°We¡¯re here to handle business, let¡¯s take a look at the situation first. After all, a body can¡¯t wait, and the sooner we look, the more clues we might find.¡±


    Ma Qiang became serious with respect, feeling that his previous internal doubts about the man were completely unreasonable.


    Especially upon arriving at the location, Ma Qiang was even more taken aback when he saw the child, Yan Sinian, take a small box off his back and pull out a square toolbox.


    Yan Qiying shook his head, ¡°Although I¡¯m not a professional forensic doctor, I know that sometimes, odors can be important pieces of information.¡±


    Ma Qiang couldn¡¯t help but glance at Sinian, ¡°Doctor Yan, your son is so young, it¡¯s not appropriate for him to witness this scene.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, he¡¯s used to it.¡±


    The offhand comment from Yan Qiying left everyone present in shock.


    Sinian walked up as if accustomed to it all, skillfully fixing the blade of a scalpel to its handle with forceps.


    A child so loving of cleanliness, faced with a body covered in livor mortis, didn¡¯t show the slightest sign of distress and directly handed the surgical knife to his father.


    Yan Qiying took it, making an incision from the throat downward.


    Sinian, composed, assisted, closely observing the condition of the body.


    ¡°The face, lips, and nails presented cyanosis.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s a distinct feeling of swelling in the face.¡±


    ¡°The lividity is dark deep purplish-red.¡±


    One after another, professional terms spilled out of the child¡¯s mouth, leaving Ma Qiang and the others too stunned to speak.


    Sinian looked up, stating calmly, ¡°Taking everything into consideration, the likelihood of a death caused by asphyxiation is as high as eighty percent.¡±

 Chapter 76: The Same Surname as My Junior Sister

    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@@@@

 Chapter 77 - 77 Unrepentant

    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@@@@

 Chapter 78 - 78 You Are Not Right

    7FVFYvFSO49pcFf6Z5a8sfPxtN3GPkt4P1LlhLDt6QpDw5y4rucalIfmDIG8mUIWKb/U0kNT8VVJ+c7Ao/jsXvk8ODtz2UPEpRC6AO1ZGJpb1M/RHgIXcCaWlrc0kqfNXCRuND8Z8I7oUO5BuK5brxlgK5EXiutcGsy8NfGzp5wTxy3jGfuJLOWxBswiRPj8PddtQNwBmiBeuZpBbmHtMVUGBVBF3tCzGeMU2ULLu+34YbVm+iO8nmMaYE0/crnkHYA9ddxFcannWDtDgrPzIq2VllcgNT388qSPQtk3+aFrucK6Fyu6nsEJTNZssjwsa3SbnO1oh/ww2JVytqTNGGRQj9TlPoyaM3qoJn/gffWBZ1kb3Pf2kdZ1AP3A2QGLYKqOFLdOnMbWgHY7r2sAbyqdSRtdlKT1jNQ5gYTJn+VSxhamxbxpARqhLyAEetbRP/ccV63u4RyQZRA6DOUdes2fXN0oVppTmbQVgNYeM5JuMQOMSij6PNiUCyURbD4+yubYqPwLZQudPlIfMc+sRNNRFEnfG7JdR2K8dMcVTcxWG5fKqqZrBQpBHX/e/kXuyZrL4uzCH5UMXwPi45EO6XWX/3Ns7qRhOO7FoQfDVztIZ9gz6/bCY93BeFPblqSdBSKi/Fz1JOOmj2l5Tl/X9Vc6yckTlu4udjGr1oLw4V5yorlV/QthmU8MBXEd5duubwxF91lphQWRClcRjzkFqWIjnmroT93ppdUI8DKZkeNHu5MwO4xfaAXthRTFXJ6euazzJOaVy0qn9YxiMZ7Qf/VBYUX0jAzy8SM8jxDK2lgpd1ZyRS0YSYzCuhp/a5+anMU7mvdTFj0dqjr8/a/8VnE2Q65Dl6gN2nENXRvOldAcBSDX3rnQyFdBVsr/rPo7jRGnBYksbUYfPzpNsTwzHkqdnZmXlzLB+TUg+3pKa4TvieyYYZlOMT779/3zb1ut3cHvx/EscTrS0F+G2MQ3ll5+2x+o/hYOZrISB2/CnEX71YTsVfKh8poOwEanZ28HtHQ574XcBA6rGrj8ideKWNaLo9zH5LdL9l0/sVmCN7PyNItEstVrJCz3P3kAEqDKQ/5El2R+ju6cp7JApW0lpo3VG5rpbnvVi84T/+jygNxKEqN+7VJAqSEty3Q6uyZYG2YFQv6KvbKP6p32WTFU3msjI12TyJ3mkNiDfCcz5nlQKNHLhEYfxHgOWL+5J8E7qXXJIclvleGCcIg/GhjF6JCscXm3UyBszd3gt0LMdj5UEb0ZPcK8vpIxmIOCyNrp+0iGdDGjzV2qPD6B0H2hbF6UD/IfpY6BoxeLEDXA6RJv3OhsAKdPdVA54mBDsQwr8qw7bNn+OoOLuL8gdCDvdlOBtVyGa+gH0WcW3HlUogQPYF2pRPDCCvIdvAbfZCvy8oHdmHUOKx67yqxQ+C9lnazQ9Y4Dj1IbDKutMtZqk4eXf3/KCGReOV3p6leS7E8p7XmGqxncD6k0XGVpiB/DvaAqhbjZM8ZxiGs68xQxzhOs0kbS8+etaSdt5F8ZZo8ojes70+jlOT85fITpWTs8EJyFMJeyybOS6EJTuHivky0GEQ3F/sAXY3e8v95uIIY50jyobyhf/UA+Zt9DomT2RM+6Jpuw6YPphVaRw5uRgBa7BuoyIZnoLZ5xrqcLpbgE30Bf5BUJE2za5NoW2XfSykbh7m6PXxmNK21gz1c70Lv9bVX0YoFt5ef3uLovC4MAOxIs2/hQVmZq9SKcugo4vwWkoIZkGCzng1TXeh98WNVZ5LOEG65gjQUGhIqbPPY5Sj4EIkZE8+hurdU641lhBSQXdMVVM1rqhi2EGTrUw26t02+43TNHOo1NC//1Qf2yrohnlzn5fhpQg674chbeKe8sKwesquf2aUNi+I8wMewUt7CoJrFItliMWITBozyWMhoVHWoB6VvGACMXR8V04C2ltgP3PFR9QGfkhvNwkY8bzORgzPx2M89f3tOX95sVC2AMPiqOEvmMpXXbMeE6t6PQcOW7gzz9BamgwpdogaeUwyNe5QO7C3FxFtQCo9KBznWyfroX8PfV0woza8m0EEQdSlAB5O6oRt1cZLtWhHkiFku7RHMWQ5fDsVz/Rv1x1zi13gR+7674upVZ2GxCHmJN85IdGInG80cmxIoXheye/KSELadOCBM/p6/HkWTXJ+9KvRY0fkljtPYpLrqWga1rP+Sbln/SkeA8xMQZaYmyN1FamAY6abL6AeyC8L85ixlHvxGSIWKdMhDPMb4viM4H3CK8I7l6r6ppd2vyRmH7hVX8YmtA2SvUeTPQNau8IAlq482IR/fhQG898cl4Fw3NvF5i5mGK+FN2g7r10w/6tLGUPszLRgXpQVmAqXVeRyB4TL5/n5Stjwx2MCBNy+b2UoPSY5gBgIfFJQu7pVUlBksTdn9l/v1DzS/IxuV9pVduqeT3cXsy3nekqlZvokVkhQnSDsXLAcqWWBHbhyfYW8hsJGLxna3AO7ch9VvvTSUCUtUfkAuTG3gEITiqahajRxHwUAk5R1vj97ZGyldWMa6AdXn3BM3yBN/up+3cPRJExTJeSEOj1ImBiUavCmek6O5RmEw+j/w3P1HXSrL+eBCDk/ds7PGpZBk1M0oaZS24bk0R7hc90L13vRRIJPJvND+NJ+fXyMEHqIwGKuxNMPU9wZNeRiMKXgad9+pyX//BKzhcvB8Vg8aZpsoU4cW2/lFaMLiguFRlKo0LyLNqi8c5WMUfJDi/ZQLHPqvm6JY1jdfpU+IoZtsyoqidVXYW7bse6tR2l6BguF+R3OydxuSLj59VCJkLwyQnmeYgvcEoI+P80v1PW5LKjldL66YPWnVk3a1PUojjJ1caynZIHZzF9Ys7aebT6KstzYSVcgYXmUuHRumyiqlUO8VrxjyDCqOGU/QvX5skZrzqmTvEBLvWHH4EVC41hZvKwqNq0H9EIvZxBxBhbjUQd87tunQZ0kKHESdAO/BIPsOB1uWkBKvhVkqkYQabtVeurSYXQT19Th1itWV08oK3f7KcPLs1Ztk9ux3YGsNLo1sT6mXdWfDFWUwzPHDbrRYH+fPUbpDgCHh8liIxRzf1u+rgmBq+eAAz8TVJwqOU84hbXLaRWGfV+RXhMRmLw7Tf2up6mrgftb43cgdJVy6hJBsZkNiMmUNQ/WzmqjN5O1FTlvDsdHnTysj/rohUOgIPgvDLCKSpOw9rFTeXwXYwoRAG9/d13j851os5/XfIpH2J6jWTCYZM+WbDQDNvGtACUa4huD+c3AJ7LbtDD+5OFiO6n/yTxWMXMDLIdR1jzns8WUVqCnqjKFUc9KLB5OL2FWdj9SgrFwIsWsopUxjr0KV8HsZLGWqy/GMqRyC+WOwZL+w7w8tHeCnYfPxyDbBrIqkFmP+wudI3YFGNrod80yQgeiTpGme1gstOs76cu2vzcrNN+hf6qr7bdevMbxdn8zOM9JwO5vTinFRJIr5a5mbyCQXc4EXCzPuYBAsPuBQavR/27vilbEnVVjJ+ThwlvPoPdRjXJlokvzwDrqqrq6z8qN25BXixBdr+awTwlCgQPaWaptGHXBawsxipwYS5Y4mmAiqOSWMbg9VRAUDXlvJbuF1o1rPaepSE9Kh3iwmhw3D6sFKrzDXJdrHUWT7xDNt3P5MWYv5KBBDR7BscSUZEz1W7uJloUR5lvcb0/gbtZ5u/H/vYkoOCV+9gtztOlH0fgbCF69nPLoD3uGa2Qog3gCtWypvmNe1XsFzCqWY42ZOqIQCopka5vJSkga9Gci0/hCDm2YERqH8XKGZhC6Ochjlsjf8kuytTvMqsplkY9l5XS0rcGljPWg/b1FJmuelkltqiC5F9Xfij+dppQ2aAW/XFFnk82ocmyd7CZilxgPElTAinjeMZqtVX0V8WW86xzH/geoMWnnMrOx38l4rDaitmIoWktWUogNmEb2MJJuM3NIcudibWNewyqKFJtS2z961v6rbn3U/lMXd/jwTXKVIB7OUCWDipuBYIShbeZ0NWyDr76HXyy9AM6TJlGQEBZP4QtF8nLNyg1G/cGhvX5yr+MN7O14y3lAfCFVAt5D0InXDarRzK7utc6sliEE9rG6m8h88+HdcZr1VbrIkNT1ZEowZaOtpseEJ/HdrWGavJ88McF8wzM4HT0OrWzKVrI7hW2fNcrwQv9i8BVbBProjTcUac1Aelqcwq0o5vboxm1ItZTmn16mIvuBirI0TVtPsjAMe8cKKkQc7+DtyFg3qHI2XpDfR5pteqPgYq56lA7c4fC/c9HqD8Uq36Jl7db14XIg6vaFU9QBpI1bZxFXkwTQzRemcZFHyXbVeiQ/b7KofnPhiDW4BDFoPaenfOPBLBPti0dUBZPMvaV7GKLNNQAji7MGTLtz31LCMml1cxWVwdo/QNfxV8OCvZWUriAWT8C8hHxEbdrMN2iL4tnAH9wIMNZmbYNqmmERVW2bpKAPdphFcGA014VoAGFGwV/Vdv/d7JMrPnsjRFQXNnmoTbSNlveMAe3zAhNJ5waWZnXF90xJvHoeJ6ovrm4AxH5hv4QGo5liS/B6RN6xNSxTZzw+8JrjBN4TOjFXo0s0iEI4UkQbpQBtR9I4WBCf28URoIZTwefnusf8Qqi3IEOjp2OiNgX8BRVFlOrW/TRUD+yrSDSOwHipsOW7HaW1Q5BU6ZIG9lPuhluPhoJCXHxJeOa5OWn+31trBKroCnRZBrRyc9rY3Xd5wagzbGM2L7cllLBrl4BUqqXdizqIht3nhU+0Mzweb+rGBqnQSWAztGsExx/+BL8Fe1ZNFYZUQND9lo86c/VShfkPXFN3bGl+/UdKv4StBzKaBgoQ+Q2HDQrjBB5EulCM0ytQXxOiys9gUuasuc4bucOSgCNARnYQNkO9Bfv9eZpzHPK9QuTADPabEUWAmgGCVi0N5B+Euq6b9pqo0TI7tmF4YjMqpNHDBLKEjGJqmec+AOub2eMCjCqWq19I5DzhZ+k1k/+r5pNeUnxirLUxCrgzpXliOcX/On14qQe6gsUYVQALEyyM4wxQ4NqGGPg+8v8TB7HIgYA8Ki9eJaLzP9bEiEy/z4+bW4DmcWtEEvjL3WEvnvpo5CJW/LvYogPWT3ZntMPtIeNqQCA0B8SnYfz2VNA6m6WsGOTQl0sfwz9aJQmqzpZWcQcWaAsW8Xml6FkNwtRVusQtXxn3phd2TDOfFnBHYqtHlj0BvDp9SmrGff2CUcrw6y93rVZi2kYVDF56IiTW6yC+A7qzRHz6vZ4EYmvEyCQXLu2B26A25ldyGdEiCZexUmImjBIv7k44GFrtDMwVBRIZCNT32RoUvlfkfK9qPvzW3I4SqZAv+nvpJezVqwa1mH3+ttNAgm+fBkLFdXCsOBGGiJgzY+PGRH/85h9vR8se8Ookyk6H7X00BR7RES9E33EPCgupbWoZUvkPrXQUOPFMjFYBnZtlODYcZrjEQWe5aBYsyMvtGC6sFwJKHJgTIlWZWlNr+9ZKogyKJZn+l+gd9x9y74Z45wriSxTjqEBI/ufCewui/uQ10TcEiQ8vehVHtKcm10i63XIb9P+fV/G7VmyhZcIjGuD9si5PUNAl63i83iWcIx46AClZvkx83SaXEWa3+iG4k4cm7O4hNnDEC89H9yhifuJWeqxo/Lw9pTu9Aaw7fYejcZZ9VErLGzRYC2yPtG9mF7gb51Q7rFFZ+NLSo2nqlEygAeXmVqrXdZgm2QCGrJgziKI2NOzSZOAGNMY/Kr21E7YV7B2rynNAlmcB0JEqIHxbvNdTh+I3PekMQZXrlQ+uEz7UmxQo3/GHdElhHCl8qrRJuxTTJ6VoRFEYCZKau9yF7LEnRmF+n0Bb50gvEdqdUrM/P2fLhmyfNU6bY8KzaYtNiFg99IN4KPvvjG+ZgdcC4fI0mU+ofHSWhC8yohXR7+qnckRHkxTFwsg1cnuVno/4EADp3G90YxZU8cgf3tO4FXIsDtQdZVK9nmt9jLmUQHyucYa3oLSxRmpaYSFp2wn5W5uJnfbTCohIkbtHboYxs9NyaCNg4T42C9XzDTJ4PKQxWB/v4smXeYfcgKUYqh2vyYKfwTBWKqCkeTcRYyglG3lF1FQ8DWeOMn3sqCQ48bxNo/nlJsr6M+gkDQN0geVwTSjP471FcExsx32mbiV8f8NzFkcdnq+eR61ettnykiUvmmtLuRpHolrQPGOE4mMDzKx+l0WvTkA4Upq1F4TcvZTR4WdLovUB3SY2xsC55I38ztKhd/Q4wO4p/nUP8X/0p3Cu96VluKpKxhgNszb7zh1XPuAizMkxm2r0i+3ZcRohMxPn2x80rJDyn3AzjHK/lDqFybMNJxWhjWx8sw2oPLILcx4Vs0WyIVXBAl9vZhLcc/MI8Sl2y3FzdpL0nBkUWfFiNGhc/McrVWEz0nh/32j+8cZJypeCgv7tTnrp84WXSFFC/ObmVfgkT0LRb8/apxkZYlnbgAaKxiOjdGS+C/BXndRgLS+EeYZcKxeTANECaI+m5u77e0O9RHRo4nCchYvuVuXI5vdMr0+7UOCkJ38iifno6tYKf255cstJCzlRREhd6NpuFO8lGfXiAK9X2WgfFmwH2x+/cX/6dHoh/W/ffpiSOvslA8KhYvpeyF+z3bnZn814Cqo9AUJCYcLclIkKpRnMoqPKSl6dSMVDvSaWEFedpZId3sjE4bbc5cvWAcSbBF3+VGQtFnRdYFrEp+wYiHN8bDdj37Ykcioort8bntrrx3YERz/5hT44+1wxM7caHj158W5fKQVUpzTdvREN5sSBRbPv/AaGRGIBzJSjo3hH+w7CKFDLi6lCQJofSWDDoR8R51W+IEtysjeionorBQH259lwKYtkKgF30d+bUEcTtzqCQx000nAKNI7LdmeJNtoB93gfSXj1WXXSy2AZ+8unp5fG3v/lgdSUgIMK52/FdTm+Wqsf4b4iSOX/E7d9fng122EqeMVwvxN++Xd7Y3@@@@

 Chapter 79: 79: Skills Comparable to a Tailor

    Chapter 79: Chapter 79: Skills Comparable to a Tailor


    Yue Qingqing could see the Qi Fortune on people.


    The word ¡°Qi¡± encompasses myriad aspects.


    It could reveal a person¡¯s general character, such as whether one possessed a noble energy or a harmonious temperament.


    At the same time, it could also reveal short-term fortunes, whether ominous or auspicious.


    Together, these aspects formed the Qi Fortune.


    However, this Qi Fortune was not fixed and would change with every thought or action, instantly turning a saint into a demon, and vice versa.


    ...


    Yue Xiaofang¡¯s usual energy wasn¡¯t very good, always showing a mass of gray-green.


    Yet when she picked up a needle and thread, her energy would transform, turning from gray-green to a vibrant green, bursting with vitality and pleasing to the eye.


    This phenomenon wasn¡¯t unusual; many people are always hesitant in fields they aren¡¯t good at and wouldn¡¯t achieve much.


    But when they switch paths, they might suddenly excel and even become leaders in their new fields.


    Yue Qingqing took a few small steps and squatted beside Yue Xiaofang, watching her tailor.


    Yue Xiaofang was using a charcoal pencil to draw lines on the fabric, needing no extra tools, relying solely on her Eye Power to draw the lines straight and even, as if measured with a ruler.


    At that time, Zhang Ying and Wang Xiaoni had not yet married into the family and curiously said, ¡°Really? That happened?¡±


    Lin Chunju proudly said, ¡°Back then, when Li Dazhong¡¯s daughter was getting married, the bridal gown handed down in their family was gnawed by rats, so they had to ask Xiaofang to make an emergency bridal gown, and gave her two old hens for it.¡±


    Wang Xiaoni remembered and exclaimed, ¡°That bridal gown was so beautiful, I still remember it after all these years; it was exchanged for old hens.¡±


    Two old hens weren¡¯t a small price, but thinking back to how Li Xiaoya looked in her bridal gown, she felt it was worth it.


    Any woman whose family could afford it would want to marry in the most beautiful attire.


    A woman gets this chance only once in a lifetime.


    Being praised so lavishly by everyone, Yue Xiaofang¡¯s face turned so red it almost bled, awkwardly mumbling, ¡°Not at all, it¡¯s not that exaggerated.¡±


    Yue Qingqing, wearing her new clothes, ran up to Yue Xiaofang and hugged her legs.


    ¡°Auntie, do you want to be a tailor?¡±


    ¡°Ah?¡± Yue Xiaofang was flustered, ¡°This... I really can¡¯t do this.¡±


    Lin Chunju, however, suddenly felt like she had been hit on the head, ¡°Right, Xiaofang, you¡¯ve still got the skills after all these years, why not pick it up again?¡±


    Yue Xiaofang was still declining, ¡°Mom, let¡¯s not.¡±


    But Lin Chunju was decisive, ¡°It¡¯s settled then. First thing tomorrow morning you¡¯ll go find Old Lady Zhou who lives at the village head. She has the keenest news, and you¡¯ll ask her to help inquire if any family needs help making clothes.¡±

 Chapter 80: 80: The Ways of the World Have Changed

    Chapter 80: Chapter 80: The Ways of the World Have Changed


    Widow Zhou was an old widow in the village, but she lived a decent life thanks to her keen business acumen.


    In Daye Village, nothing big or small, from weddings and funerals to whose hen laid two extra eggs, could escape her notice.


    If someone was idling and needed work, or if a family was building a new house and lacked labor, seeking her help was always a safe bet.


    She could guarantee satisfaction for both the employer and the employee.


    The external gate to Widow Zhou¡¯s house was always open; Yue Xiaofang hesitated at the entrance.


    Yue Qingqing looked up with her little face, ¡°Auntie?¡±


    ...


    Yue Xiaofang bit her lip and took Yue Qingqing¡¯s small hand as they walked in.


    A few women had already gathered in the outer court, occasionally in pairs. The recent harvest had been completed, so there were more people free of farm work.


    The women sat at the threshold with a rush mat spread out in front of them, on which a pile of corn cobs was placed.


    With a basket in front of them, the women took a cob in each hand and vigorously rubbed them together.


    The corn kernels would fall into the basket, gradually forming a peak.


    Widow Zhou did not join them; she reclined in a rocking chair in the corner of the yard, squinting as she basked in the sunlight.


    Following the voice, Yue Xiaofang saw a woman not far off deseeding corn cobs, staring at her with mockery in her eyes.


    This person was He Zhenzhen, the wife of Wang Jinshun.


    Because of the longstanding feud between the two families, she always looked down on members of the Yue Family.


    If it were any other member of the Yue Family, they would have argued with her.


    But Yue Xiaofang, biting her lip, could not utter a word.


    Seeing her like this, He Zhenzhen intensified her attack, ¡°The world has really changed; a woman divorced by her in-laws still has the gall to show her face. If I were her, I¡¯d hang myself with a rope if not feeling ashamed to hide at home, let alone be seen in public.¡±


    Even when faced with someone as mild as clay, Yue Xiaofang couldn¡¯t contain herself, ¡°The country now allows women to divorce; what right do you have to say this about me?¡±


    ¡°You dare talk back? How shameless,¡± He Zhenzhen dropped the gauntlet, ¡°Let¡¯s see who dares to have this bringer of misfortune make clothes for them. Wouldn¡¯t they be afraid of luck turning against them if they wore her creations?¡±


    The women who had been interested just moments ago now all nodded in agreement. A woman cast out by her in-laws was akin to the source of a plague; everyone would steer clear.


    Fearing that their families might mistake them for being restless too.


    Yue Xiaofang¡¯s fingernails dug deep into the palms of her hands, and her lips trembled without stopping.


    It was clear that those people were beasts, even willing to harm their own flesh and blood.


    Yet in the eyes of these people, she was the one beyond redemption.


    What kind of world was this!

 Chapter 81: 81: Stupefied to the Point of Recklessness

    Chapter 81: Chapter 81: Stupefied to the Point of Recklessness


    Hearing He Zhenzhen¡¯s words, Old Lady Zhou frowned.


    ¡°Enough, focus on your work and cut the chatter.¡±


    He Zhenzhen, unconcerned, laughed mockingly, ¡°Yes, after all, we still have work to do, while some people are sent back home, only to be useless freeloaders.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang glared at her, ¡°Who are you calling useless?¡±


    ¡°Whoever is useless knows it themselves. Not only giving birth to a child that caused a loss but also getting that child killed, if such a person isn¡¯t useless, then who is?¡±


    She pinpointed Yue Xiaofang¡¯s soft nature, repeatedly calling her useless, her words spewing out like a machine gun.


    ...


    However, she did not expect Yue Xiaofang to rush over and slap her hard across the face.


    The crisp sound echoed in the courtyard, and He Zhenzhen covered her face, her eyes wide with shock.


    She never imagined that Yue Xiaofang could have such a moment of strength.


    The extreme surprise even made her forget to fight back immediately.


    Yue Xiaofang said slowly and clearly, ¡°If I hear one more word about my daughter, I¡¯ll come to your door with a kitchen knife tonight.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just a worthless life anyway, we might as well die together.¡±


    He Zhenzhen looked into Yue Xiaofang¡¯s eyes and realized that she was not bluffing.


    She was supposed to grab Yue Xiaofang¡¯s hair and pin her to the ground for a good beating.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care. Whoever starts trouble in my place has to leave.¡±


    He Zhenzhen still wanted to argue, but the others around began to urge her.


    ¡°Just leave it, go back for today, and Old Lady Zhou will call you next time there¡¯s work.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t stand here, you¡¯re holding up our work.¡±


    Seething with anger, He Zhenzhen could only carry her basket to be weighed and left with her meager earnings.


    In the evening, the Yue Family gathered together for dinner.


    Yue Jiannan asked enthusiastically, ¡°Sister, what did Old Lady Zhou say to you? With your skills, I bet people will be knocking on our door tomorrow.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang managed a forced smile and responded, ¡°That¡¯s still an uncertain thing.¡±


    Yue Jiannan wanted to ask more, but Lin Chunju stretched out her arm to knock him on the head.


    ¡°Shut your mouth and eat your food quietly,¡± she instructed.


    Yue Jiannan shrank his head and muttered quietly, ¡°How can I eat with my mouth shut.¡±


    This earned him another eye roll from Lin Chunju.


    Zhang Ying and Wang Xiaoni exchanged a silent glance, both guessing that things probably didn¡¯t go well today.


    Sigh, it was plain to see, the gossip outside was too vile; Xiaofang¡¯s temperament couldn¡¯t endure it.


    Yet, what no one expected was that after dinner, a guest unexpectedly arrived at their home.


    Old Lady Zhou came to visit in person.

 Chapter 82: 82: Assess Your Own Weight

    Chapter 82: Chapter 82: Assess Your Own Weight


    Lin Chunju hurried to welcome the visitor inside.


    Granny Zhou held the basket of eggs that Yue Xiaofang had delivered that morning. The Yue Family members saw it, and their expressions froze, realizing something.


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t able to get things done, the items still need to be returned.¡±


    Lin Chunju refused, ¡°Keep it. The help is secondary; this is the child¡¯s way of showing respect to you.¡±


    Granny Zhou waved her hand dismissively and sat on the chair Yue Xiaofang had moved for her.


    ¡°Xiaofang, you¡¯re a good girl, and you have a fine craft. Don¡¯t listen to the crap those villagers say. It¡¯s not your fault life is tough.¡±


    ...


    Granny Zhou had lost her husband early and had no children of her own, so she naturally understood how vicious gossip could be.


    It was already hard for a woman in this world, and some women went out of their way to harm those even more pitiful than themselves.


    Granny Zhou despised these kinds of people the most.


    Yet, she also felt helpless, unable to change anything.


    He Zhenzhen might be detestable, but her words represented the thoughts of many in the village.


    In their eyes, Yue Xiaofang was someone unlucky, and naturally, no one would want what she made.


    Yue Xiaofang pursed her lips, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Yet, in this village, aside from her family¡¯s home, there really was nowhere else where she could belong.


    Granny Zhou then changed the subject, ¡°But your craftsmanship is wasted in the village. Have you ever thought about selling it in the city?¡±


    The wife of Second Dog immediately showed a look of disdain, ¡°You should come to our house instead, why go to the Yue Family? That family brings bad luck. Recently, Xiaofang was just kicked out by her in-laws.¡±


    Granny Zhou gave her a stern look, ¡°Shut your mouth, or you¡¯ll bring disaster with your words.¡±


    The wife of Second Dog pursed her lips, seemingly wanting to argue but daring not to.


    Granny Zhou said coldly, ¡°Today I¡¯ll teach you a lesson. Have you heard about the incident in Jinshan Village lately?¡±


    The wife of Second Dog was taken aback, ¡°What happened?¡±


    In those times, information was scarce. Even for two neighboring villages, there wasn¡¯t much known about each other.


    But Granny Zhou had her own sources of information.


    ¡°The in-law family of Yue Xiaofang had an accident. Who knows if it was because of autumn¡¯s dryness or something else, but their Fruit Orchard caught fire. Much of the orchard was destroyed, and they¡¯d planned to pick the fruit to sell in the city in a few days. Now, a year¡¯s work has gone to waste.¡±


    Granny Zhou spoke dispassionately, but the wife of Second Dog broke out into a cold sweat.


    ¡°And that¡¯s not all. During the fire, Ma Jinbao, Xiaofang¡¯s former husband, went to the canal to fetch water and ended up tumbling in. They say he wasn¡¯t lightly injured.


    Everyone was in a panic trying to put out the fire, and by the time it was over, they found him; he¡¯d been soaked in water for hours. They took him to a hospital in the city afterward, and he¡¯s still there now.¡±


    The wife of Second Dog¡¯s mouth dropped open as she recalled many past events.


    Granny Zhou snorted coldly.


    ¡°People should know their weight and understand who they can provoke and who they cannot.¡±


    After dropping that remark, she leisurely walked away, leaving the wife of Second Dog standing there stupefied.


    After a long while, the wife of Second Dog stiffly craned her neck, her gaze towards the Yue family house filled with awe.

 Chapter 83: 83: Going into the City

    Chapter 83: Chapter 83: Going into the City


    After Old Lady Zhou left, Lin Chunju made up her mind.


    ¡°Xiaofang, Old Lady Zhou is a well-known and knowledgeable person in the village. You might as well give it a try,¡± she suggested.


    Yue Xiaofang was still worried. ¡°What if no one wants it?¡±


    ¡°If no one wants it, then no one wants it. At least you have to try,¡± Lin Chunju responded.


    Lin Chunju had always been decisive and action-oriented, while Yue Xiaofang tended to be indecisive.


    Zhang Ying also encouraged her, ¡°You just finished making some clothes and have some fabric left, why not make some small items? It¡¯s not a big deal, and there¡¯s no loss.¡±


    ...


    Yue Xiaofang pursed her lips, and after a long pause, she nodded, ¡°Then I¡¯ll give it a try.¡±


    Seeing her agree, everyone couldn¡¯t help but beam with joy.


    They had all noticed Yue Xiaofang¡¯s privately sullen mood these past days.


    Regardless of whether this venture succeeded or failed, at least it would give Yue Xiaofang something to do and prevent her from feeling sorry for herself.


    Yue Jiandong instructed his brother, ¡°Little brother, when the time comes, accompany Xiaofang to the city.¡±


    Yue Jiannan nodded, ¡°That¡¯s okay, but what about my fish pond? I need to start fishing in half a month, and I need to feed them on schedule these days.¡±


    ¡°No problem, let the second brother feed them for you on that day.¡±


    Yue Qingqing also tugged at Yue Xiaofang¡¯s sleeve, her face full of desire, ¡°Auntie, Qingqing wants to go to the city.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang couldn¡¯t resist those adorable eyes and immediately agreed, treating her like a precious treasure.


    Yue Jiannan maintained his usual confidence, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, the last time I was selling ginseng, I scoped out the area and memorized the routes.¡±


    Lin Chunju glanced at him, thinking to herself that with Qingqing there, of course, she would be at ease.


    Now that they had a goal, Yue Xiaofang was full of vigor and quickly made several pairs of gloves.


    They were both warm and good-looking, with flowers and plants outlined on the surface with thread, bringing good mood to anyone wearing them on winter days.


    She figured that even if she couldn¡¯t sell these gloves, the family could use them.


    Not a loss!


    By mid-month, Yue Xiaofang and Yue Jiannan finally decided to set out today.


    Early in the morning, Qingqing was dug out of bed and dressed up by the women of the Yue family.


    The Yue family members all had a good sense of aesthetics, and given Yue Qingqing¡¯s own remarkable appearance.


    Once she washed up and changed clothes, she looked as radiant as a nymph under goddess Guanyin, bringing joy to anyone who saw her.


    Yue Jiannan excitedly hoisted Qingqing onto his shoulders, securing her there.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go, we¡¯re heading to the city!¡±

 Chapter 84: 84: Eye-Opening Experience

    Chapter 84: Chapter 84: Eye-Opening Experience


    The city was a place akin to heaven in the villagers¡¯ eyes.


    In earlier years, it was said that not only did no family in the city go hungry, but they all ate fine grains.


    However, in the past two years, as food production increased, there were fewer families in the village who really couldn¡¯t afford their meals.


    Yet for the people of Daye Village, the city was still a coveted place.


    If a family had a relative in the city, it would come up in conversation within three sentences.


    Yue Qingqing and two others had arranged to meet the donkey cart that was going to the city to sell goods early.


    ...


    Sitting in the cart, they felt the bumpy country road.


    The smell wasn¡¯t very pleasant either.


    But none of them had any complaints; they were all thinking about what they would do once they got to the city.


    Yue Xiaofang clutched the cloth bag tightly, which contained her few days of harvest. Although it looked pretty good, it still made her uneasy.


    She always felt it might not be pretty enough.


    Yue Jiannan, on the other hand, was full of excitement and was vividly describing his last trip to the city.


    ¡°I had planned to ask for prices in a few more shops, but one shop liked my goods so much they wouldn¡¯t let me leave; they insisted on buying them on the spot.¡±


    What met her eyes was a scene completely different from Daye Village.


    The wide streets were free of mud, and the ground beneath her feet was very smooth, without any worry of stumbling over rocks.


    The roads were busy with tricycles loaded with goods.


    A tinkling sound rang out as people on bicycles weaved through.


    ¡°From here, carts and donkey carts like ours aren¡¯t allowed in anymore; you¡¯ll have to walk.¡±


    The old man opened his eyes, yawned, and prepared to lead the donkey and the goods to find customers.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll pay you the fare for the trip here; we¡¯ll meet here in the afternoon.¡± Yue Jiannan excitedly settled the bill and, holding Yue Qingqing, walked towards the city center.


    Yue Xiaofang had been to the city before to buy fruits, but she had been in a rush then, only focused on how to preserve the fruits and sell them for a good price, and had never truly browsed around.


    Yue Jiannan comforted her, ¡°Don¡¯t stress about it; if it doesn¡¯t work out, we can just treat it as a trip to the city for fun, especially good for broadening Qingqing¡¯s horizons.¡±


    Yue Qingqing also said in a babyish voice, ¡°Auntie is not scared.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang took a deep breath, then boldly nodded.


    ¡°Great, where shall we go first?¡±


    Yue Jiannan, who was daring, casually asked a fashionably dressed passerby for directions.


    Sure enough, the person knew, ¡°Head to East Street, just to the end of this road, then turn in there. That area is a street full of clothing stores, lots and lots of shops.¡±


    After thanking him, Yue Xiaofang, with a nervous heart, walked towards the fabled clothing street.

 Chapter 85: 85 Consignment

    Chapter 85: 85 Chapter Consignment


    Yue Xiaofang watched endlessly, her timidity growing by the minute, feeling a strong impulse to turn around and flee.


    ¡°Let¡¯s just forget it, they definitely won¡¯t appreciate my craftsmanship.¡±


    Yue Jiannan said helplessly, ¡°Sis, now that we are here, we should at least walk around, otherwise, how will we explain to mom when we go back?¡±


    Yue Xiaofang pursed her lips tightly, ultimately not wanting to disappoint Lin Chunju, ¡°Well... let¡¯s just take a look first.¡±


    Yue Qingqing blinked her eyes, but was very interested in another matter, ¡°Auntie, what is the mainland?¡±


    In those hawking calls, at least four or five claimed to have newly imported clothes from the mainland.


    ...


    To the people of Daye Village, the city was already an impressive place, but from the way these people described it, the mainland seemed to be even more superior?


    Yue Xiaofang did not brush her off, and explained patiently, ¡°The mainland refers to some coastal cities in the south, which are more developed and wealthy, and many fashionable things originate from there.¡±


    Yue Qingqing nodded her head, seemingly understanding.


    It turned out there were skies beyond skies.


    The shop was bustling with activity, but the shop owner brightened when she saw Yue Qingqing and personally attended to them.


    ¡°Are you buying clothes for the child? She really looks lovely, how did she grow up to be like this?¡±


    Yue Jiannan smiled proudly, though he was accustomed to the villagers admiring Qingqing¡¯s beauty, hearing the city folks praise her sounded particularly pleasant.


    Fortunately, he also didn¡¯t forget the main purpose, ¡°We¡¯re not buying clothes for now, mainly wanting to ask if it¡¯s possible to consign goods here.¡±


    The shop owner frowned, ¡°This is a ready-to-wear store, selling branded merchandise, I don¡¯t sell homemade items.¡±


    Being sharp in business, she almost immediately noticed that this family wasn¡¯t wealthy; had it not been for the child¡¯s attractiveness, she wouldn¡¯t have attended to them personally.


    The shoes and clothes made in their rural home were not only simple in design but also mostly rough.


    She had a wide client base and many returning customers¡ªwhy would she do something that undermines her own reputation?


    But before she could finish, when she saw the items Yue Xiaofang brought out from the cloth bag, her eyes couldn¡¯t look away.


    ¡°Did you make all these?¡±


    The craftsmanship was much better than she had expected!

 Chapter 86: 86 Limited to 10 sets

    Chapter 86: Chapter 86 Limited to 10 sets


    Yue Xiaofang felt a bit embarrassed as she nodded, ¡°Just some small things I¡¯ve made recently, to show as samples, I can make regular clothes, too.¡±


    The proprietress held the gloves and hat, examining them over and over, ¡°You must have studied this specially.¡±


    At this point, Xiaofang also knew she couldn¡¯t be too honest, so she pursed her lips and stayed silent.


    The proprietress expressed her feelings, ¡°I guess it¡¯s a family heritage craft, even better than the stuff out of big factories, and the style is quite fashionable.¡±


    Items from factories are made with machines, so although the stitching is neat, they still lack the care of handwork.


    Yue Jiannan spoke with pride, ¡°That¡¯s right, my sister¡¯s skills are famous throughout the village.¡±


    ...


    Xiaofang¡¯s face immediately turned red, but she was very pleased with the proprietress¡¯s appraisal in her heart.


    However, after looking for a while, the proprietress regretfully returned the items to them.


    ¡°Big sister, your stuff is good, but it¡¯s not convenient for me to sell here. For one thing, it¡¯s hard to set a price; for another, my customers are quite brand-conscious, many specifically ask for factory-made goods. Handcrafted items may not sell at a good price, and it would be a pity to sell your craftsmanship so cheaply.¡±


    Xiaofang felt somewhat disheartened, but since the proprietress had put it this way, she couldn¡¯t very well say she was willing to sell at a low price.


    Yue Jiannan¡¯s face showed no sign of disappointment; after all, he had been prepared and knew it wouldn¡¯t be a success on the first try.


    ¡°Thank you very much, we¡¯ll look around some more. We wish you a booming business.¡±


    Who would have known the proprietress then gave them a tip, ¡°Wait a moment, do you see the third store at the street corner, the one with ¡®Orchid Pavilion¡¯ written above it?¡±


    The proprietress bit her lip, ¡°Ten bucks! Just for two hours, I¡¯ve never offered such a high rate before.¡±


    ¡°Deal!¡±


    So Qingqing watched, wide-eyed, as Jiannan practically sold her into child labor.


    Initially, Xiaofang also felt it wasn¡¯t right, but... but the proprietress¡¯s offer was just too tempting.


    Qingqing went behind the curtain to try on the clothes from the proprietress¡¯s shop, and the slightly trendy clothes instantly looked much more sophisticated on her, looking just like specially tailored high-end children¡¯s attire.


    The proprietress, unable to take her hands off Qingqing¡¯s cheek, gestured for her to stand at the entrance.


    ¡°Come take a look, freshly imported kids¡¯ clothing styles from the mainland, limited to only ten sets, first come, first served!¡±


    Customers who were just browsing unconsciously entered the store when they spotted Qingqing standing at the entrance.


    ¡°Is it the style this girl is wearing? I¡¯ll take a set.¡±


    ¡°Only ten limited sets, right? I¡¯ll buy two.¡± Such beautiful clothes would also make great gifts.


    ¡°Do you have a similar style for boys? Yes, that¡¯s right. I¡¯ll take one.¡±


    The ten sets of clothes quickly sold out.


    Just as Jiannan was about to ask if they should have Qingqing change into another outfit, he saw the sales staff bring out another ten sets from the stockroom...


    The proprietress personally called out, ¡°Limited to ten sets, first come, first served!¡±


    Jiannan realized why the shop was so big; it was truly run by a shrewd business person.

 Chapter 87: 87: The Material is Too Common

    Chapter 87: Chapter 87: The Material is Too Common


    Two hours went by, and Yue Qingqing found her role as a model quite relaxing.


    Worried that she¡¯d get tired standing at the door, the shop owner even moved a small stool for Yue Qingqing to sit on.


    This kind of treatment brought about a rich return.


    The shop owner¡¯s family originally sold more adult clothes, with children¡¯s clothing being the least popular.


    After all, there were plenty of families who doted on their children, but the financial conditions of each household had only improved slightly from before.


    Children are growing all the time, and clothes that fit today might not fit in two months.


    ...


    Therefore, many families would wear the hand-me-downs from their relatives¡¯ children to save money.


    But today, with Yue Qingqing as the little model, families with children felt joyful at the sight and thought of their own little cutie.


    The silver in their wallets grew legs and scurried into the shop owner¡¯s cash box.


    Yue Jiannan did some mental math and realized why the shop owner was so willing to spend the ten yuan¡ªthey were indeed making a tidy profit.


    Just in a short while, they¡¯d sold dozens of sets of clothes.


    If these families dressed their children well, they might also come back more often.


    The corners of the owner¡¯s eyes creased with a smile, ¡°Here, this is your money, hold on to it tightly. This street is crowded, and there are many pickpockets. You must be careful.¡±


    ¡°May I help you with something?¡±


    Yue Jiannan immediately replied, ¡°We were referred by Wei Yan and have some business with the boss.¡±


    ¡°Referred by Wei Yan? Please, have a seat; I¡¯ll go find the boss,¡± said the clerk as she went inside.


    Clearly, the owners on this street knew each other, and even the clerks were familiar with the name Wei Yan.


    Moments later, a portly man with a hint of affluence came in through the back door.


    The man had a soft measuring tape draped around his neck, and his shirt was marked with chalk stains.


    Yue Jiannan mused to himself, not expecting that a place named Orchid Pavilion would have a male tailor for an owner.


    ¡°Hello, I¡¯m Shi Yongshou, the owner of this store. What can I do for you?¡±


    Yue Jiannan gently pushed Yue Xiaofang forward, ¡°We were wondering if it would be possible to consign goods here?¡±


    ¡°Consign goods?¡± Shi Yongshou looked at Yue Xiaofang sideways, ¡°Are you really referred by Wei Yan? I don¡¯t accept just anything here.¡±


    Xiaofang mustered her courage and took out her items.


    Shi Yongshou picked them up and scrutinized them with narrowed eyes.


    ¡°This... The design is fine, but the fabric is too common.¡±


    With that one sentence, the hearts of the three from the Yue family sank to the bottom.

 Chapter 88: 88: Worthy to be Compared Side by Side?

    Chapter 88: Chapter 88: Worthy to be Compared Side by Side?


    Yue Jiannan sighed in his heart.


    In fact, from the moment he entered the store and saw the interior de?cor, he had also beat a retreat, knowing that today¡¯s business was likely to fall through.


    Yue Xiaofang bit her lip and reached out to take her things back.


    A tug, but they didn¡¯t budge.


    Shi Yongshou, with his hand raised, said indifferently, ¡°The customers here have high standards, and you must use the materials I provide to make things.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang looked up incredulously, wondering if this person meant...


    ...


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you understand?¡± Shi Yongshou handed her items back to Yue Xiaofang, ¡°I can let you take them home to work on, and you can also have the extra materials, but you must ensure the quality. If my customers are not satisfied, our cooperation will be canceled.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang nodded hurriedly, ¡°Okay!¡±


    ¡°Come with me, and I will discuss how to calculate your pay.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang excitedly followed Shi Yongshou, and as the two were about to step through the back door, the sound of glass doors being pushed open and hitting wind chimes rang out crisply.


    Shi Yongshou turned around, immediately putting on a warm smile.


    ¡°Madam Zhuang, what brings you here today?¡±


    The woman who entered was dressed in the height of fashion, as if she had stepped right out of a fashion magazine.


    Her long hair was curled into soft waves, her eyes were big, and her skin was extremely fair.


    Yue Xiaofang couldn¡¯t help but steal glances; the clothes on this woman fit better than anyone else on the street, obviously costing a pretty penny.


    But as soon as she thought she couldn¡¯t possibly have any connection with her, the little doubt was immediately cast aside.


    Zhuang Rouhui did not linger long; after having her measurements taken, she left.


    Her neck was slender, like a proud swan.


    As she walked out of the store, many eyes fell upon her.


    Yue Jiannan couldn¡¯t help but sigh, ¡°You can tell she¡¯s someone substantial, very impressive indeed.¡±


    Shi Yongshou had already put away his obsequious smile and casually remarked.


    ¡°She is quite wealthy indeed, her man used to work as an official, made it big once, but seemed to have stumbled later and chose to go into business, even has branches in the provincial city.¡±


    The clerk also expressed envy, ¡°I heard Madam Zhuang had boy and girl twins, blessed with both a son and a daughter in one birth, and still managed to keep her figure so well after childbirth.¡±


    Shi Yongshou was more knowledgeable, ¡°I heard it¡¯s not her first birth.¡±


    The clerk was astonished, ¡°Ah? But isn¡¯t everyone only allowed one child now?¡±


    Shi Yongshou didn¡¯t continue, just waved his hand dismissively, ¡°These are the affairs of clients; why pry so deeply? Go back to work.¡±


    The clerk had no choice but to embarrassingly return to sorting clothes.


    Shi Yongshou looked at Yue Xiaofang, ¡°By the way, can you read? If you want to take work from here long-term, you¡¯ll need to sign a contract with me.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang, filled with excitement, quickly put the thought of that woman out of her mind.


    ¡°I can read!¡±


    She never imagined her craft could actually feed her, that her work would be sold in such a fine shop.

 Chapter 89: 89: Stand Up Straight

    Chapter 89: Chapter 89: Stand Up Straight


    One afternoon, Lin Chunju¡¯s gaze hardly left the door, occasionally raising her head to look.


    Zhang Ying noticed her mother-in-law¡¯s concern and comforted her softly, ¡°Mom, don¡¯t worry. The journey back and forth is a bit long, and there might be some delays. It might be nighttime before they get home.¡±


    Lin Chunju shook her head, as her elder daughter-in-law had come to comfort her, even though she had almost scalded her hand while pouring water earlier, clearly more anxious than herself.


    Fortunately, the two¡¯s worries didn¡¯t last long. Yue Jiannan¡¯s noisy voice suddenly burst into the yard.


    ¡°Mom, sister-in-law, we are back.¡±


    Zhang Ying hurried to greet them, and only relaxed after seeing smiles on all their faces.


    ...


    She hugged Yue Qingqing tightly, showering her with kisses.


    ¡°Was Qingqing a good girl today? Did you have fun in the city?¡±


    Yue Qingqing¡¯s face was covered with kiss marks, and she quickly nodded, ¡°Good! Fun!¡±


    Yue Jiannan chuckled heartily, ¡°Sister-in-law, you can rest assured. Not only was Qingqing good, but she also made some money.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± both were startled.


    Yue Jiannan pulled out a big bill and handed it to Lin Chunju.


    Lin Chunju, disliking her self-deprecation, corrected, ¡°They¡¯re neither your relatives nor your friends, why would they pity you? Either you are competent or you¡¯re not. Now that you have the job, just do it well and don¡¯t keep being afraid.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang¡¯s back was slapped, and she had to straighten up.


    ¡°Mother is right, I will definitely do it well!¡±


    Lin Chunju was then satisfied, believing that whether poor or rich, one must at least show some spirit.


    Don¡¯t hunch your shoulders and cower, people look at your demeanor and think it easy to bully you.


    Yue Jiannan was so excited, he could hardly wait to proclaim the fact that Yue Xiaofang had received work from the city to the entire village.


    See, you said my sister was unlucky, even the city folks recognize her craftsmanship now!


    Lin Chunju glanced at his expression and knew exactly what Yue Jiannan was thinking.


    ¡°You too, don¡¯t wander off, we have serious business to attend to. Just today, the eldest and the second brother went down to the fish pond and thought it was about ready. They plan to harvest in two or three days.¡±


    Yue Jiannan cared about the fish pond more than anyone, immediately dispelling his previous thoughts.


    ¡°In two or three days? I was planning to nurture them for another week.¡±


    ¡°A few days won¡¯t make much difference. Let¡¯s harvest directly while the weather is good. The second brother is already preparing the fishing nets. Tomorrow, you and the eldest brother should also visit the surrounding villages, gather the buyers we talked about, and settle the payments on site.¡±


    Yue Jiannan nodded, feeling the pressure.


    After feeding the fish for so long, it was finally time to see the results.

 Chapter 90: 90 Preparing for Fishing

    Chapter 90: Chapter 90 Preparing for Fishing


    The Yue Family¡¯s fish pond was ready for harvesting, and the news spread quickly throughout Daye Village.


    Now that the busy farming season had passed, many people headed toward the pond after breakfast to watch the excitement unfold.


    There were two most common methods of fishing from the pond.


    Previously, most would drain the water from the pond and catch the fish directly from the dried bed.


    The advantage of this method was convenience and speed; after selling the fish, the pond would freeze over in winter, and they could refill it with water and stock it with fish fry the following spring.


    However, the Yue Family planned to use another method, encircling the pond with a large net from one end to the other, with several people on each side pulling the net, ¡°scooping¡± up the fish inside.


    ...


    This method was much more troublesome, involving not only many preparations beforehand but also continued maintenance of the pond during the winter.


    But the benefit was that the offspring of those ¡°escapes¡± could be raised as new fry, and the fish that were not harvested would grow fatter and larger by the next year.


    Yue Jiannan, usually the most talkative at home, was unusually silent today.


    After setting the fishing net, he paced around the pond, circle after circle, staring at the swimming fish, lost in thought.


    Yue Jianxi asked in confusion, ¡°Third brother, don¡¯t you feel dizzy?¡±


    Village Chief Zhang frowned, appearing troubled, ¡°Not many, basically one or two fish each. You know the nature of these people, after Wang Jinshun instigated, those who had originally ordered all backed out.¡±


    A few days before, Lin Chunju had asked Village Chief Zhang to help find out how many in the village wanted to buy fish, so the Yue Family could sell to them at a lower price.


    After all, winter was approaching, and many households were thinking of making fish soup to nourish their bodies and put on some fat for autumn.


    But Wang Jinshun claimed that the fish from the Yue Family had only been raised for a year, so they would surely be small and lack nutrients.


    Many suspected that Wang Jinshun, having a hard time himself, didn¡¯t want others to have it better.


    This year, when harvesting the crops, everyone knew that even though Wang Jinshun had contracted two plots of land, his yield was only 30-40% higher than the previous year.


    After calculations, it wasn¡¯t even certain he could recoup the rental cost.


    He was simply biting off more than he could chew with not enough hands, yet he insisted on running both ends.


    However, influenced by Wang Jinshun¡¯s words, many villagers still got cold feet.


    Even though the Yue Family said they were willing to sell at a discount, it was their first year raising fish, and who knew what they could produce.


    If they committed to buying in advance and upon harvesting, they found the fish smaller than wild ones from the river, whether they wanted them or not, they would likely have to swallow their pride.


    Due to this concern, there weren¡¯t many in the village who were willing to buy fish in the end, with the remaining being those who had good relations with the Yue Family, like Granny Zhou and Jin Aijun¡¯s household.


    But with only these few families, who were buying for their own consumption, how much could they really purchase?

 Chapter 91: 91 Unqualified Yue Family Compensates

    Chapter 91: Chapter 91 Unqualified Yue Family Compensates


    Hearing Village Chief Zhang say so, Lin Chunju fell silent.


    Yue Jiandong took a deep breath and made his decision.


    ¡°Forget it, no matter what happens in the end, we¡¯ve got to first pull it up and take a look,¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve already notified several people in the village with ox carts or donkey carts. If there¡¯s really too much left over, we¡¯ll haul it to the city and try our luck. Maybe the restaurants there will want it.¡±


    Village Chief Zhang worried about the Yue Family in his heart; only the best products from all the villages were sent to the city.


    If even the villagers didn¡¯t want to buy Yue Family¡¯s fish, how could the city folks possibly want them?


    ...


    This was nothing but a pipe dream.


    A few moments later, the fish pond was surrounded by people.


    After the farming lull, the village barely had any excitement, and now there was finally something interesting to watch. Almost every household had someone come to see.


    People from the neighboring village who had agreed to come and buy the fish arrived with horse carts or ox carts, piled high with empty baskets ready to hold the fish.


    Wang Jinshun and his wife He Zhenzhen also stood among the crowd, both watching the fish pond with cold eyes.


    In the past two months, because of the poor harvest, their family had been solidly ridiculed by others for a long time.


    But now, after listening to what the villagers said, he started to doubt the fish pond.


    ¡°Yue Jiandong, why didn¡¯t you tell us about this situation before?¡±


    Yue Jiandong did not offer an extensive explanation but told him the truth, ¡°Previously, this place was indeed abandoned, but we¡¯ve put a lot of effort into cleaning it up after leasing it. We also conduct regular checks, and the fish inside definitely won¡¯t be diseased.¡±


    Wang Pengfei said with a stern face, ¡°But I just found out that your fish pond was only leased this year, the fish inside may not be well fed, and if they¡¯re small, I won¡¯t want them.¡±


    Yue Jiandong gritted his teeth, ¡°Me saying more now is worthless. Let¡¯s fish out one net for you to see, and if it¡¯s not up to the standard, you can turn around and leave, okay?¡±


    Wang Pengfei grunted, and a short man behind him was not letting it go.


    ¡°That¡¯s it? We came all the way here, and you expect us to leave empty-handed if your stuff isn¡¯t up to par? That¡¯s not how business is done.¡±


    Yue Jiandong felt both anger and frustration, knowing this person probably also saw that the fish might not have many buyers and was deliberately trying to take advantage of the Yue Family, hoping to extort a large sum.


    Yet, at this moment, if he didn¡¯t say something, these people would walk away and spread unpleasant rumors afterward.


    The Yue Family fish pond had a ten-year lease, and the business naturally needed to continue for the long term. If their reputation was ruined, all the efforts in the future would be in vain.


    However, just then, Yue Jiannan, who had been silent until this point, suddenly spoke up.


    ¡°If the fish caught today don¡¯t meet your expectations, our Yue Family will compensate each of you five yuan.¡±


    ¡°But if the catch meets the standard, then the price you pay must be increased beyond what was agreed upon. Is that acceptable?¡±

 Chapter 92: 92: Casting the Net

    Chapter 92: Chapter 92: Casting the Net


    Not only the few buyers but even the spectators were stunned.


    Where did Yue Jiannan get such confidence from? After all, he was just a naive young man, truly fearless because of his ignorance.


    The short man¡¯s eyes darted about, ¡°You mean if you don¡¯t meet our requirements, you¡¯re willing to compensate us?¡±


    This time, Yue Jiannan didn¡¯t look at his brother or mother and nodded directly.


    ¡°That¡¯s right!¡±


    The short man raised his eyebrows, calculating in his mind.


    ...


    Probably this guy hadn¡¯t considered that whether they met the standard or not was still up to them, huh?


    How was this any different from just handing over the money to them?


    Five yuan wasn¡¯t much to them, but earning that by just making a trip back and forth was something they were happy to do.


    Only Wang Pengfei still kept a straight face without speaking. Unlike these small traders, his own business was already fairly large, and he didn¡¯t care about the money at all. He just thought about not making a trip for nothing.


    But since the others weren¡¯t speaking, he simply kept his mouth shut too, just waiting to see how the Yue Family would wrap things up.


    Wang Jinshun sneered, ¡°He must be out of his mind.¡± Even he sensed something was off.


    He Zhenzhen thought she could trick the Yue Family badly with just a few words and felt very pleased with herself.


    ¡°Mom, today I made a decision on my own,¡± Yue Jiannan said, hanging his head in apology.


    Lin Chunju patted his arm, ¡°Go pull the net.¡±


    Moreover, these fish were lively and still flapping after being pulled ashore, looking very spirited and certainly not sick.


    Wang Pengfei, who had been listless by the side, suddenly rushed forward, his face brimming with an eager smile.


    ¡°Jiandong, I had no idea your family¡¯s fish were this big. Let¡¯s weigh them, I¡¯ll take them all!¡±


    The appearance of these fish was too appealing; full-bodied, just what distinguished restaurants nowadays were lacking.


    The rest of the buyers were not pleased, ¡°How is this fair? We all agreed beforehand, and now you want to take everything for yourself?¡±


    Wang Pengfei snorted, ¡°Just now you were saying they wouldn¡¯t meet the standard and Yue Family would have to compensate you. Isn¡¯t it better if I take them all? I¡¯ll even cover those five yuan for the Yue Family.¡±


    The short man was both angry and anxious, ¡°I... I¡¯ll raise my price.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll also raise the price, by thirty percent!¡± Wang Pengfei, all smiles, ¡°Yue brothers, when you mentioned it to me earlier, I hurried here immediately. You wouldn¡¯t disappoint me, would you?¡±


    These days, many sharp-minded people in various villages were collecting quality poultry and seafood to send to the city, and it wasn¡¯t just Wang Pengfei¡¯s business.


    But if he could buy all the Yue Family¡¯s fish, then the restaurants would have to beg him to sell to them.


    Having good sources was most important.


    Wang Pengfei knew the ropes well and was willing to raise the price just to secure this batch of fish.


    ¡°Why should it be you? I¡¯ll increase my price too,¡± protested the owner of the smoked fish business.


    The fish were really too big; if they could buy them for New Year goods, they surely wouldn¡¯t earn any less.


    The same people who had just been making things difficult for the Yue Family quickly began arguing fiercely over who should get more and who less, almost wishing they could take all of it for themselves.


    The spectators from Daye Village watched from the side, completely dumbfounded.

 Chapter 93: 93: The First Net of Fish Sold

    Chapter 93: Chapter 93: The First Net of Fish Sold


    ¡°`


    These people quarreled back and forth, eyes locked in a standoff that looked liable to escalate into a brawl.


    Yue Jiandong, however, paid them no mind, rummaging through the fishing net to pick out over a dozen hefty fish.


    He placed them into baskets and handed them over to several people who had placed orders for fish.


    Jin Aijun scratched his head out of habit and said sheepishly, ¡°Brother Yue, these fish are quite large, two would be enough.¡±


    ¡°Take them, we agreed on three, you¡¯re getting three, no less.¡±


    ...


    He finished speaking and then handed some to Granny Zhou.


    Granny Zhou received them with a chuckle, ¡°The Yue Family is truly blessed.¡±


    After giving some to Chief Zhang, the chief couldn¡¯t help but laugh, ¡°It seems my concerns were misplaced; your fish are really big, you won¡¯t have any trouble selling them.¡±


    Chief Zhang¡¯s youngest son, with a finger in his mouth, cheered, ¡°We¡¯re having fish for dinner tonight.¡±


    The village children all listened enviously and turned to look at their own parents almost simultaneously.


    The villagers¡¯ faces turned red.


    At the beginning, Yue Jiandong had said that weighing the fish for fellow villagers would be too troublesome, so he decided to charge by the number of fish instead.


    Sometimes when he couldn¡¯t comprehend the content, Yue Jiannan would take out a few fish in two small tanks and raise them using different methods to see which one worked better.


    Most importantly, while other fishpond owners couldn¡¯t be bothered, lazily throwing in some water plants and calling it feeding time, he was diligent in his care, adding powdered shrimp and eggshells to supplement the fish¡¯s diet.


    At the outset, many villagers criticized Yue Jiannan for such extravagant feeding practices, calling him a profligate.


    So no matter how skeptical the villagers were, Yue Jiannan remained confident about the fish pond.


    He was finally able to find his own worth in this small pond.


    Meanwhile, Wang Pengfei and the others finally came up with a share after discussing amongst themselves. They personally rolled up their pant legs and waded into the pond alongside the three Yue brothers to draw the nets.


    All to expedite the harvesting of the fish.


    However, the Yue Family¡¯s fishpond really exceeded their expectations; not only were the fish heavy, but their total number was not insignificant either.


    With so many people working together, they still only managed to harvest fish from half the pond.


    Wang Pengfei didn¡¯t care about his somewhat clean clothes getting muddied, his smile never left his face.


    ¡°Yue brothers, once I sell this batch of fish, let¡¯s pick another auspicious day to catch the rest,¡± he said.


    Yue Jiandong nodded, ¡°Alright, let¡¯s do it two days from now.¡±


    Wang Pengfei quickly agreed, secretly rubbing his hands together, figuring he should bring some inexpensive gifts for the Yue Family next time.


    The Yue Family seemed to value relationships deeply; it would be best to strengthen ties with them in hopes of securing an exclusive contract for their fish in the future.


    ¡°`

 Chapter 94: 94 Village Gossip

    Chapter 94: Chapter 94 Village Gossip


    Under the envious gaze of the villagers, the Yue Family finally drew in the net.


    Yue Jiannan grinned as he lifted the fish basket, carrying three fish reserved for his family.


    He¡¯d chosen the largest ones, and although there were only three, they were quite heavy; he nearly threw his back out lifting them.


    Yue Jiandong hurried to help him, casually ruffling his brother¡¯s hair, ¡°You¡¯re really something, keeping it low-key and then surprising the family like this.¡±


    ¡°Hehe, I learned it all from books, I really regret not taking Mom¡¯s advice to read more seriously.¡±


    Yue Jiannan tried to hide the pride on his face, but it was no use, so he just beamed a wide smile.


    ...


    ¡°It seems that even though I can¡¯t farm, I do have a skill to get by.¡±


    Lin Chunju gave him a sideways glance, ¡°Hmm, not bad, having a skill is necessary to get a wife, in a couple of years Mom will find you a good one.¡±


    Yue Jiannan¡¯s expression turned odd in an instant, ¡°Mom!¡±


    Yue Jianxi couldn¡¯t help but chuckle, ¡°The youngest is getting shy.¡±


    It was understandable, considering their mom had always worried that Jiannan lacked the skills for farming and that their poor family circumstances would make it hard to find a wife.


    Now that he had shown his ability to raise fish, families in the village with eligible daughters would surely consider him seriously.


    ¡°We don¡¯t care; you need to take responsibility.¡±


    Wang Jinshun raised his walking stick as if to strike someone, ¡°Being obstinate, huh? Get lost!¡±


    He Zhenzhen chimed in, ¡°My Jinshun can¡¯t walk well; if he gets hurt, watch out, we¡¯ll have you arrested.¡±


    Seeing Wang Jinshun being so unreasonable, people could only curse under their breath and disperse.


    Wang Jinshun was seething with anger as he glared at the fishpond.


    He Zhenzhen was like a worm in his belly, cursing out loud, ¡°Those damn Yue Family members are just too lucky.¡±


    She couldn¡¯t help blaming Wang Jinshun, ¡°Back then, why did you insist on leasing that piece of broken land? It¡¯s no better than this fishpond. After the fish were stocked, I could have come to feed them without you and Daming having to run around.¡±


    ¡°Talking about it now is useless.¡± Wang Jinshun¡¯s expression turned even darker.


    Initially, this place was just a trash-filled, stinking ditch; if he had known...


    He Zhenzhen pursed her lips, saying no more, and just spat in the direction of the fishpond.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go back; the Yue Family will have their bad luck soon enough.¡±


    She went to pull Wang Jinshun, but couldn¡¯t move him.


    Wang Jinshun squinted at the fishpond, lost in thought.

 Chapter 95: 95: Trouble at the Fish Pond

    Chapter 95: Chapter 95: Trouble at the Fish Pond


    In the evening, upon returning home, Lin Chunju prepared three fish in different ways.


    She stewed one with tofu to make fish soup, and the other two were made into braised fish.


    Yue Qingqing didn¡¯t wait for Zhang Ying to pick out the bones for her and just buried her head and ate with difficulty.


    Zhang Ying was so frightened that she ate the meal with her heart in her throat, terrified that the child might choke on a bone.


    Yue Xingxing and Yue Xiaohu were gobbling up their food as well.


    Ever since they had taken over the fish pond management, the Yue Family always had to tighten their belts, but now they could finally eat some meat.


    ...


    And this was fish they had produced themselves.


    Jiannan chewed each bite carefully and savored his meal with an extra sense of ritual.


    Everyone at home watched him with amusement, thinking that Jiannan seemed more mature, yet still had a childish side to him.


    After dinner, Chunju recorded the money they made that day in the accounts.


    ¡°We made a total of 325.6 yuan from selling fish today. I¡¯ll set aside a portion of this money as a dowry for the third child¡¯s future marriage,¡± she said.


    Everyone nodded, ¡°Jiannan is not young anymore. It¡¯s time to consider settling down.¡±


    Jiannan blushed but couldn¡¯t help fantasizing.


    Marrying a wife, huh, what should the woman he marries look like?


    It would be best if she had a gentle temperament and was willing to listen to him.


    ¡°Xiaofang, I am going to take the child out to pee, you lay down first.¡±


    In the village, it was usual to urinate into a chamber pot placed under the bed at night,


    but Chunju sometimes preferred cleanliness and would go to the outdoor toilet.


    Xiaofang didn¡¯t question it and nodded.


    ¡°Mother, be careful with Qingqing. It¡¯s dark outside.¡±


    Chunju hastily acknowledged and carried Qingqing outside the house.


    ¡°Qingqing, what¡¯s happened?¡±


    Qingqing pointed towards the south side of the village, ¡°I feel like there¡¯s going to be trouble at the fish pond.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    Qingqing shook her head, ¡°I¡¯m not sure, it¡¯s just a guess.¡±


    There had been a change in Jiannan¡¯s aura, but with Qingqing¡¯s current ability, she could only predict that something bad was about to happen without being able to deduce the specifics.


    Qingqing suspected that the fish pond was likely to be the source of trouble. Considering how much Jiannan cared about the fish pond, he might have a hard time if something did go wrong.


    Even though it was just a baseless suspicion, Chunju slapped her thigh, deciding it was better to believe than to ignore.


    ¡°Go back to your mother¡¯s side and be good. Grandma will call for help!¡±


    Chunju returned to the room and woke up the men of the Yue Family.


    ¡°My eyelid has been twitching. I have a bad feeling about the fish pond. Come with me and let¡¯s check it out,¡± she urged.

 Chapter 96: 96: It Really Is You

    Chapter 96: Chapter 96: It Really Is You


    The three brothers walked along, with Lin Chunju following behind.


    The cold wind howled on the chilly autumn night, and they were so hurried when they left that they even forgot to put on an extra layer of clothing.


    Yue Jiannan shivered uncontrollably, ¡°Mother, it would be the same if we came to look tomorrow. Why did you insist on calling us at this late hour?¡±


    They were exhausted from a day of fishing, sustained only by the thrill of it.


    Just when they finally took baths and felt they could sleep soundly, they were roused by Mother in the middle of the night.


    Now they felt sore all over their bodies.


    ...


    Lin Chunju glared at him, ¡°What if someone had ill intentions and tampered with the fish pond? If we come tomorrow, the fish might all be dead.¡±


    Yue Jiannan sneezed, then rubbed his nose and muttered softly, ¡°You speak as if it¡¯s true, but that¡¯s all your speculation.¡±


    Lin Chunju rolled her eyes in the dark, though it was hardly noticeable, ¡°Quit your blabbering and walk faster.¡±


    Yue Jiandong, however, thought Mother¡¯s suspicions made sense, ¡°The Yue family has been poor for too long, and the people in the village have looked down on us, but today we made a good sum of money, and so many eyes in the village are watching. It¡¯s hard to ensure no one will be jealous of our family.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Yue Jiannan felt a bit scared, ¡°Really? We worked hard for a year, and what was once a garbage dump is now prospering. Why would they be jealous?¡±


    Yue Jiandong had followed Mother and seen the warmth and coldness of human relationships.


    Although it was embarrassing to disturb Chief Zhang so late, the person showing up at the Yue family¡¯s fish pond in the middle of the night clearly harbored no good intentions.


    Lin Chunju wasn¡¯t planning to handle this privately; the village chief had to witness it.


    Yue Jiannan, worried, glanced at the fish pond and quietly lowered his body to head in the direction of the village chief¡¯s home.


    ¡°Eldest, second brother, go and restrain that person so he doesn¡¯t succeed,¡± she instructed.


    The two agreed and quietly circled around to approach from behind.


    Wang Jinshun held a white plastic bottle in his hand as he approached the edge of the fish pond.


    The water of the pond at night shimmered, and the fish inside seemed to sense something, leaping frantically out of the water before plunging back in with a splash.


    The moonlight, heavy and serene, reflected on the water, outlining the man¡¯s shadow.


    Wang Jinshun scoffed, ready to unscrew the cap and pour out the contents of the bottle.


    However, in that instant, a sudden force from behind brought him crashing to the ground.


    There was more than one assailant, one of whom twisted his arm, securing his hands behind his back.


    The other picked up the plastic bottle that rolled on the ground.


    Yue Jiandong twisted the face of the man pinned on the ground towards him and couldn¡¯t help but snort.


    ¡°Wang Jinshun, it¡¯s you after all.¡±

 Chapter 97: 97: How to Solve?

    Chapter 97: Chapter 97: How to Solve?


    It wasn¡¯t long before Village Chief Zhang arrived with his eldest son in tow.


    ¡°Wang Jinshun? What are you doing here so late?¡±


    The light from the flashlight swept across Wang Jinshun¡¯s face as Village Chief Zhang felt a surge of irritation.


    Why couldn¡¯t this man keep to himself and had to go looking for trouble with the Yue Family?


    How did Yue Dashan ever end up saving such an ingrate.


    The light dazzled Wang Jinshun so much he closed his eyes, defending himself, ¡°I... I couldn¡¯t sleep and just came out for a walk to clear my head.¡±


    ...


    ¡°Your home is on the east side, and for a walk, you come all the way to someone else¡¯s fish pond?¡±


    Village Chief Zhang wasn¡¯t a fool and obviously wouldn¡¯t be fooled by his few words.


    ¡°Caught red-handed and still not telling the truth? What exactly are you here for!¡±


    Yue Jianxi handed over a bottle he had picked up from the ground to the village chief.


    ¡°Village Chief Zhang, look at this.¡±


    Village Chief Zhang took it, shone the flashlight on it, and his son exclaimed.


    ¡°Dad, isn¡¯t this pesticide?¡±


    Everyone in the village was familiar with this white plastic bottle.


    Eventually, the village chief would step in, and the guilty person¡¯s crimes would be declared in front of all the villagers, subjecting him to their scorn.


    Of course, some would plead on their knees in private, or offer money as compensation for a settlement.


    Village Chief Zhang wanted to hear how the Yue family planned to handle it.


    Lin Chunju looked at Wang Jinshun, who also glared back at her unflinchingly.


    In his eyes, there was the uneasiness of being caught, animosity towards the Yue family, but not a trace of regret.


    ¡°Call the police,¡± she said.


    Lin Chunju was thoroughly annoyed with Wang Jinshun; the man was like a mangy dog to her.


    He had acquired this debt many years ago, and if the Yue family were living a poor life, Wang Jinshun might feel a twinge of remorse in his midnight reveries.


    But as soon as the Yue family started to do well, Wang Jinshun would involuntarily fear their retribution, dread Lin Chunju settling the score with him even more.


    This man was inherently crooked, and Lin Chunju had no intention of being a Bodhisattva that saves all beings.


    Village Chief Zhang was taken aback upon hearing her resolution, not expecting Lin Chunju to decide so decisively.


    Normally, among villagers, unless blood was shed or a fatality occurred leading to legal action, it was rare to resort to the police for settling disputes, after all, you couldn¡¯t avoid seeing each other eventually.


    But then, thinking about Wang Jinshun¡¯s past with the Yue family, he could understand Lin Chunju¡¯s mindset.


    Wang Jinshun¡¯s deeds were simply unforgivable.


    He nodded his head, ¡°Alright, then we¡¯ll call the police!¡±

 Chapter 98: 98: Skilled in Calculation and Prediction

    Chapter 98: Chapter 98: Skilled in Calculation and Prediction


    Wang Jinshun¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief; he hadn¡¯t expected Lin Chunju to actually be so resolute.


    At this moment, he finally felt a hint of regret.


    ¡°I was wrong, Sister Lin, I lost my mind,¡± he said, ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have done something so beastly.¡±


    Wang Jinshun suddenly stood straight and began to plead with Lin Chunju.


    ¡°Please forgive me this once, I will not dare to do it again, I will definitely not bother the Yue Family ever again.¡±


    ¡°Please give me a chance, I really know I was wrong.¡±


    ...


    Wang Jinshun fell to his knees, kowtowing so fiercely that his forehead quickly got smeared with mud, looking extremely disheveled.


    Lin Chunju said coldly, ¡°Stop your acting; I am not going to forgive you this time.¡±


    If Wang Jinshun really had poisoned the pond, not only would the fish be ruined, but the water would have to be completely changed.


    Business relies on trust, and if Wang Pengfei came by and couldn¡¯t collect the fish, he might not be willing to cooperate with the Yue Family in the future.


    The fish pond business would be basically ruined!


    With Wang Jinshun harboring such malicious thoughts, what use was there in his feigned repentance now?


    Seeing that Lin Chunju was showing no sign of relenting, a fierce light appeared in Wang Jinshun¡¯s eyes, but he still kept his head down, attempting a final struggle.


    This calamity of a man made Yue Jiandong so angry he feared he wouldn¡¯t be able to resist kicking him a few times.


    News in the village spread quickly, and by the next daybreak, after every household had breakfast, the story of Wang Jinshun being caught attempting to poison the Yue Family¡¯s fish pond had spread throughout the village.


    While others were shocked, they were also reflective that the Yue Family had actually chosen to call the police.


    Some felt Lin Chunju had gone too far, after all, they were all from the same village, and making a scene like this was unsightly.


    Others thought it was the right thing to do; if not for Wang Jinshun, the Yue Family wouldn¡¯t have suffered for so many years. It was all karma.


    Besides, this karma was one that Wang Jinshun had brought upon himself.


    If he hadn¡¯t harbored bad intentions, would he have been sent to the police station?


    However, most felt that the Yue Family¡¯s luck had been incredibly good.


    They just happened to go check on the fish pond in the middle of the night and actually discovered something was wrong.


    The woman from the household next to the Yue Family gave an animated recount, ¡°I just happened to go out to dump the foot-washing water last night when I saw them heading out.¡±


    ¡°Lin Chunju is amazing; she calculated with her fingers that there would be trouble, and from now on, nobody in the village should mess with the Yue Family¡ªthey can foresee it.¡±


    Ever since the advice from Old Lady Zhou last time, and connecting it with many other strange occurrences, she dared not offend the Yue Family in the slightest now.


    With the way the woman next door put it, some people in the village actually started to believe, and even those who didn¡¯t still thought the Yue Family was meticulous and careful in their dealings.


    Those who had harbored certain thoughts after the Yue Family suddenly became wealthy all lay low and extinguished those unspeakable bad intentions.

 Chapter 99: 99: You let him out

    Chapter 99: Chapter 99: You let him out


    The turn of events far exceeded Wang Jinshun¡¯s expectations.


    The police sternly told him that the act of poisoning in the Yue Family¡¯s fish pond was of a heinous nature, and Wang Jinshun would definitely go to prison.


    Wang Jinshun opened his mouth to beg for mercy, but the police didn¡¯t entertain him.


    With both eyewitness and physical evidence, and Wang Jinshun¡¯s own admission of guilt, all that was left was to follow procedure.


    The police notified Wang Jinshun¡¯s family to bring him some essential living supplies during his detention.


    He Zhenzhen saw her husband through the iron gate.


    ...


    In just two days, Wang Jinshun¡¯s beard had grown quite a bit, making him look extremely unkempt.


    ¡°Jinshun, how did you get caught, how could you be so careless,¡± she asked.


    He Zhenzhen wailed and dabbed at her eyes, causing the nearby police officer to frown and glare at her.


    These two really are a couple, one poisoned the pond, and the other also looks like no good person.


    Listen to what she¡¯s saying! What does she mean by ¡®carelessly caught¡¯? He shouldn¡¯t have done it in the first place.


    Wang Jinshun scowled, ¡°Shut up, what¡¯s the use of crying.¡±


    He Zhenzhen sniffled and hung her head low, ¡°I brought you some warm clothes. When can you come out? Caidie was asking about you just this morning.¡±


    Wang Caidie, the couple¡¯s daughter born in their middle age, was usually rather spoiled.


    ¡°Lin Chunju, are you intent on harming others, by all means? Why did you call the police?¡± she demanded.


    Lin Chunju took off her apron, wiped her hands, and did not bother to respond.


    Angry and annoyed, He Zhenzhen raised her voice, ¡°What do you mean by staying silent? Are you feeling guilty?¡±


    Wang Xiaoni couldn¡¯t help but retort, ¡°Your man did something wrong, and you still think you¡¯re in the right?¡±


    He Zhenzhen put her hands on her hips, ¡°So what? Isn¡¯t your fish pond fine now? But my man is locked up in the police station, all because that widow Lin Chunju stirred up trouble.¡±


    Lin Chunju looked at her coldly, ¡°What a fitting lid for every pot.¡±


    He Zhenzhen was enraged, ¡°Who are you insulting?¡±


    ¡°Oh, you can tell it¡¯s you being insulted? You have quite the self-awareness,¡± Lin Chunju replied, without losing her cool.


    He Zhenzhen, raising her voice, shouted, ¡°I can¡¯t be bothered to argue with you, just release my husband.¡±


    ¡°What does it have to do with me? The police took him, go talk to the police yourself,¡± Lin Chunju said.


    He Zhenzhen didn¡¯t have a clue about the processes involved, ¡°It was your call to the police that got him arrested; if you stop pressing the issue, won¡¯t he naturally come back?¡±


    Lin Chunju found it laughable, ¡°Do you even understand the law? How long he stays locked up and whether he can be released has absolutely nothing to do with me.¡±


    He Zhenzhen truly didn¡¯t understand.


    In her mind, since Lin Chunju was the one who called the police and got someone arrested, if she just softened her stance and let the matter go, Wang Jinshun would naturally be safe.


    What did that last remark by Lin Chunju mean, then?


    It must be an excuse to shirk responsibility!

 Chapter 100: 100: The Son of a Mouse Will Know How to Dig Holes

    Chapter 100: Chapter 100: The Son of a Mouse Will Know How to Dig Holes


    For the next half hour, He Zhenzhen stood at the Yue family¡¯s doorway, causing a loud and obnoxious scene.


    Insults were hurled one after another.


    Lin Chunju, however, remained as immovable as a mountain, pretending she couldn¡¯t hear, engaging not a single bit.


    She even urged Zhang Ying and Wang Xiaoni to hurry up and deliver the meals so the men wouldn¡¯t go hungry.


    Looking at the troublemaker at the door with difficulty, Zhang Ying said, ¡°Mom, I¡¯d rather stay with you.¡±


    Lin Chunju snorted lightly, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, can she really overpower me?¡±


    ...


    Zhang Ying thought about it and agreed.


    Before she had married into the family, she had heard that her mother-in-law was unbeaten in fights within the village.


    If anyone dared to bully the children because the Yue family was poor, Lin Chunju would chase after them with a knife.


    Zhang Ying, not fully aware of the specifics before, had been quite worried about what her fate after marriage would be.


    Having heard this, Wang Xiaoni was completely reassured, ¡°Sister-in-law, let¡¯s just do as mom said and hurry with the meals, they must be getting anxious.¡±


    The two of them bypassed He Zhenzhen and left the house, this indifferent attitude only infuriating her more.


    As she endlessly railed on and even the women from the neighboring houses came out to watch the spectacle, Lin Chunju maintained her calm and unconcerned demeanor.


    Yue Xiaofang was inside the inner room, rushing to finish some clothes, and finally stuffed some cotton into her ears because of the noise.


    Yue Xiaohu was soundly asleep on the bed. This child had always been good at eating and sleeping¡ªhe always needed to nap for an hour or two after lunch.


    This habit was unshakeable, not even He Zhenzhen¡¯s shouting could wake him.


    Yue Qingqing and Yue Xingxing sat outside on little stools, each taking dried apricots from the snack pockets sewn into their tops and popping them in their mouths.


    They watched He Zhenzhen for a while as if watching a drama.


    He Zhenzhen, her voice hoarse from yelling, finally realized that this method was useless.


    Where other families might feel embarrassed, Lin Chunju had long stopped caring about her reputation.


    ¡°Let them talk, it¡¯s not as if I am losing any flesh over it.¡±


    Taking a deep breath, He Zhenzhen decided to change tactics.


    ¡°Tell me, just how much money will it take to settle this? We can just pay it.¡±


    Lin Chunju finally looked up at her, ¡°Like I said, seeking me out is futile.¡±


    ¡°You!¡± He Zhenzhen raised her voice and was about to start insulting again, but her throat was already too sore to bear it.


    However, she came prepared that day.


    He Zhenzhen pushed the young girl standing behind her, ¡°Caidie, go, she¡¯s the reason your dad can¡¯t come home.¡±


    Although He Zhenzhen and Wang Jinshun were average-looking, Wang Caidie was quite cute and seemed rather docile.


    She walked a few steps forward, coming close to Lin Chunju.


    ¡°Grandma, could you please let my dad go? I miss him, please let him come home.¡±


    Lin Chunju¡¯s fondness for children was well known in the village.


    Wang Caidie¡¯s timid words inevitably made Lin Chunju frown.


    ¡°Please, let my dad come back. Don¡¯t let the police take him away.¡±


    The girl¡¯s eyes were brimming with tears, and her nose scrunched up, making her look extremely pitiable.


    Lin Chunju shook her head, turning to He Zhenzhen, ¡°Take your child and leave. I am telling you for the last time, I cannot handle this matter.¡±


    ¡°Wang Jinshun did wrong, and it¡¯s not up to me to forgive him. It¡¯s for the judge to decide his punishment. But whatever the consequence, it¡¯s his own fault, and creating a scene here for a year would be useless.¡±


    Seeing Lin Chunju¡¯s expression, He Zhenzhen¡¯s heart sank.


    Perhaps the Widow Lin was telling the truth.


    But this made her hate her even more; if it wasn¡¯t for Lin Chunju calling the police, none of these events would have followed.


    ¡°Caidie, let¡¯s go. We won¡¯t beg her.¡±


    Lin Chunju sighed internally, feeling uneasy.


    Wang Jinshun was a good-for-nothing, pitying this child.


    Yet before she could recover, she saw Wang Caidie dash toward Yue Qingqing and Yue Xingxing.


    She reached out with both arms and fiercely pushed; Yue Qingqing dodged but couldn¡¯t grab the girl beside her in time.


    Yue Xingxing fell on her backside, and the candy fell from her hands to the ground, picking up dirt and causing her to burst into tears.


    Wang Caidie angrily shouted, ¡°It¡¯s all because of your family. If it wasn¡¯t for your family, my dad wouldn¡¯t have been incarcerated, and you¡¯re all bad people! You should all die!¡±


    Lin Chunju watched in shock as Wang Caidie ran out the door, too stunned to react.


    Such a small child could change faces so quickly and knew better than to provoke an adult, instead turning to push her own peers.


    Is this what they mean by ¡®like father, like son¡¯?

 Chapter 101: 101 Yue Jiandongs Idea

    Chapter 101: Chapter 101 Yue Jiandong¡¯s Idea


    After He Zhenzhen left with her daughter, Yue Qingqing hurriedly helped Yue Xingxing to her feet.


    Yue Xingxing was still bawling when suddenly a candy was stuffed into her mouth.


    So sweet!


    Fearful that the candy would fall out, Yue Xingxing quickly clamped her mouth shut.


    For a moment, she even forgot to cry, carefully savoring the taste instead.


    Yue Qingqing breathed a sigh of relief, reflecting that greedy children are indeed easier to appease.


    ...


    She peeled a candy for herself as well and contentedly sucked on it.


    Seeing this, Lin Chunju finally relaxed, went inside, and wrung out a cloth to wipe Yue Xingxing¡¯s face clean.


    Yue Qingqing asked Lin Chunju, ¡°Grandma, what will happen to that person at the end?¡±


    If Wang Jinshun was to be detained, it would be somewhat better, but if he was really released, she reckoned there might be further trouble ahead.


    He would never reform.


    ¡°Grandma doesn¡¯t know either.¡±


    Although Lin Chunju had been more educated than most folks around, she still wasn¡¯t very clear about legal matters.


    But after delivering Wang Jinshun to the police station, the police gave them a brief explanation.


    The incident didn¡¯t seem to have caused any consequences, but the potential danger was substantial.


    It was something called the crime of endangering public safety by dangerous means, a serious offense.


    If it had caused serious harm, it might have resulted in a death sentence.


    Upon hearing this, Wang Jinshun nearly fainted.


    However, the police also told him that, luckily, since he hadn¡¯t put the substance in at the end, he likely wouldn¡¯t be executed.


    In a way, the Yue family¡¯s timely intervention had saved his life.


    After hearing all this, Yue Qingqing nodded, only half-understanding. She too didn¡¯t know much about the world and needed to start learning from scratch.


    A verdict required time, and the Yue family soon put the incident out of their minds.


    The Yue brothers used to hate Wang Jinshun to the bone.


    But when he was actually locked up, they didn¡¯t feel much turbulence, simply cursing that it served him right.


    The rest was left to the law to handle.


    Mainly because the Yue family was busy, very busy.


    Wang Pengfei soon brought people for the second time to collect fish, this time arriving with two ox carts and hiring some hands specifically for transporting the goods.


    Compared to the last time, Wang Pengfei¡¯s attitude was much warmer, and he took out a pack of high-grade cigarettes to offer to Yue Jiandong.


    Yue Jiandong smiled and waved his hand, ¡°I don¡¯t, I can¡¯t smoke.¡±


    The men in Daye Village nearly all smoked, typically the homemade tobacco of the village.


    However, for the former Yue family, even the cheapest roll of tobacco was a luxury they couldn¡¯t afford.


    Therefore, none of the Yue brothers smoked.


    Wang Pengfei put the cigarettes away, watching his people move the baskets of fish onto the carts.


    ¡°I heard the government is planning to build roads, at least to first level the main roads of the villages. Now, with trucks and lorries introduced by the state, it would be convenient if they could enter the village,¡± he said.


    Yue Jiandong had once seen such vehicles by chance on his trip to the city; they had much larger capacity and faster speeds compared to ox carts and horse-drawn carriages.


    He nodded in agreement, ¡°If that¡¯s really so, it would be very convenient. When the time comes, us three brothers will learn to drive. We will definitely need it later on.¡±


    Wang Pengfei gave him a sidelong glance and casually remarked, ¡°Yue brothers, you really have an active mind. Truck drivers in the future will surely earn a good income.¡±


    But Yue Jiandong knew that no matter how much a truck driver earned, they certainly couldn¡¯t compare to businessmen like Wang Pengfei.


    With this thought, Yue Jiandong suddenly had an idea.


    Previously, being a businessman was looked down upon, but now, with the economy loosened, many clever people were figuring out various ways to get rich.


    Previously, the Yue family was poor, and Yue Jiandong only thought about how to increase the yield from their land so that his family could have enough to eat.


    But now, as the money in his hands slowly increased, Yue Jiandong¡¯s thoughts began to change.


    Perhaps... he could also try his hand in this area?

 Chapter 102: 102: Guaranteed to Fall In

    Chapter 102: Chapter 102: Guaranteed to Fall In


    Although Yue Jiandong had such thoughts, the Yue Family had only just started to prosper, and many matters required careful and long-term planning, so they could not be rushed.


    He had no choice but to keep this idea to himself for now and see if there would be an opportunity in the future.


    But some seeds, once they begin to take root, are destined to sprout one day.


    After the fishpond harvest, the men of the Yue Family suddenly had much free time.


    Though some fish were left in the pond, their vitality would significantly decrease come winter, and they wouldn¡¯t require much feeding.


    Previously accustomed to being busy, Yue Jiannan felt quite uneasy finally having some leisure time.


    ...


    As winter approached, the village had many idle people like Yue Jiannan.


    In those times, there were few entertainment activities. Older people could still gather to chat and gossip about each other¡¯s bits and bobs.


    The younger ones couldn¡¯t stand the loneliness and started turning to card playing.


    Some people in the village even organized card games, bringing out mahjong or the popular poker.


    A group of people in the room, some playing, some watching.


    Many smoked homemade tobacco; the room was wreathed in smoke, and entering suddenly could make one cough continuously.


    Soon, some felt merely playing cards wasn¡¯t exciting enough, suggesting putting things or even ration coupons as stakes.


    Nowadays, the living standards were improving, and the younger generation had some money saved.


    This trend quickly spread throughout the village, and the three men of the Yue Family were also invited to join the card games.


    Both Yue Jiandong and Yue Jianxi did not go.


    Yue Jiandong, having plans in mind, always took trips outside, paying attention to the situations in the nearby villages.


    He occasionally visited the city, simply having no time.


    Yue Jianxi simply disliked such environments; he hardly interacted or boasted with outsiders.


    Finally having some free time, he preferred to stay at home helping his wife with the children, or fixing the family¡¯s farming tools and furniture.


    Only Yue Jiannan, being young and unable to withstand the loneliness, was persuaded by a few friends to check it out.


    He had never dealt with poker before, but being clever, he quickly grasped the rules after watching for a while and found them simple.


    Noticing Yue Jiannan¡¯s expression, someone made space and said, ¡°Why don¡¯t you play a few rounds?¡±


    Yue Jiannan touched his nose and sat down.


    Although it was his first time playing, he was very lucky; in just two or three hours, he had won nearly two yuan.


    This unexpected success thrilled Yue Jiannan, and by the end, he could hardly bear to leave the table.


    It was not until dinner time that Yue Jiannan reluctantly went home to eat.


    The nights in Daye Village were very quiet; since they were reluctant to waste electricity, only a few households had electric lights, most still used the old kerosene lamps.


    In this dim environment, the card players disbursed, leaving only a few men in the house.


    The man leading them was You Zhichao, with a noticeable black mole beside his nose, making him look somewhat fierce.


    As the organizer of the card games, You Zhichao¡¯s family¡¯s circumstances were average, but he led a comfortable life and had several juniors calling him Brother You.


    You Zhichao instructed a few men to tidy up the cards, sweep the floor, then turned to ask a chubby young man beside him.


    ¡°What do you think about today¡¯s situation, Zhu Fei?¡±


    Zhu Fei was holding a deck of cards, shuffling and cutting them between his hands, making a rustling sound.


    ¡°Not bad, laid some bait, these fellows will still come tomorrow.¡±


    You Zhichao paid special attention to Yue Jiannan, ¡°How about Yue Family¡¯s youngest? His family was poor for many years, and has just started earning some money, he should be easy to draw out.¡±


    One newly rich is akin to a petty man gaining power, both showing off their vanity, making them the easiest to lure.


    Zhu Fei thumped the cards down on the table, his palms slickly fanning them out into a neat arc.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Brother You, I guarantee I¡¯ll get this naive kid hooked.¡±

 Chapter 103: 103: Serve the People

    Chapter 103: Chapter 103: Serve the People


    Returning home, Yue Jiannan poured himself a large cup of water using the thermos.


    Holding the enamel mug, he guzzled the water into his throat, which made Lin Chunju feel that something was off.


    ¡°What were you up to today? Didn¡¯t you even drink water outside?¡±


    Caught up at the card table, Yue Jiannan, fearing someone would take his spot, wouldn¡¯t even budge to pour some water, let alone go to the restroom.


    At Lin Chunju¡¯s question, he suddenly felt embarrassed, ¡°Just hung out with some friends, didn¡¯t do much.¡±


    Yue Jiannan instinctively didn¡¯t tell the truth, worried about being scolded by Lin Chunju.


    ...


    Lin Chunju frowned and stared at him, ¡°Why does your clothes smell so strongly of smoke?¡±


    ¡°Do they?¡±


    Yue Jiannan sniffed his arm, ¡°You know how it is, everyone in the village smokes, I accidentally picked up the scent.¡±


    Worried about further questions from Lin Chunju, he quickly whined in an elongated tone, ¡°Mom, is the food ready? I¡¯m starving.¡±


    Lin Chunju originally planned to ask more, but then thought about it¡ªher son was grown and had his own life. Asking more would seem bothersome.


    ¡°Dinner is ready, just waiting for you. Go help bring the dishes from the kitchen.¡±


    Yue Jiannan felt relieved as if granted amnesty, and dashed to the kitchen.


    These days, the food at home had improved a lot, with meat appearing almost at every meal.


    Usually, Yue Jiannan had to eat two big bowls to feel full, but today, his mind was all on the card table and thinking about how to win big tomorrow.


    He barely tasted his food and felt full after just a few bites.


    Luckily, the family didn¡¯t notice much.


    Yue Qingqing was happily munching on the bacon in her bowl, barely lifting her head.


    All night, Yue Jiannan¡¯s dreams were filled with the sound of shuffling cards, and he was up early in the morning with red eyes, ready to leave the house.


    In the outer yard, Yue Jianxi was fixing farming tools and glanced up, ¡°Jianxi, skipping breakfast?¡±


    Yue Jiannan couldn¡¯t wait to leave, and answered offhandedly, ¡°I¡¯m going to the village head to buy a pancake.¡±


    Uncle Wang¡¯s pancakes were large and round, stuffed with marinated meat coated in bean sauce, and tasted amazing.


    In the past, the Yue family would seldom think of buying food outside.


    But lately, times had gotten better, and Lin Chunju gave Yue Jiannan more allowance as a reward for his good job with the fish farming.


    Yue Jianxi opened his mouth to instinctively advise his brother to spend cautiously but saw him rush out like a gust of wind.


    Is that pancake really so delicious? Why the rush?


    Yue Jianxi shook his head and continued bending over his work.


    Yue Jiannan, in a mad dash, grabbed a pancake and ran to the house door, pushing it open when a wave of smoke hit him in the face.


    If it had been the day before yesterday, Yue Jiannan would definitely have frowned in displeasure.


    Today, however, he showed a surprisingly enjoyable expression, and if someone had offered him a cigarette at that moment, he surely would not have refused.


    Yue Jiannan gulped down the pancake in just a few bites, choking and rolling his eyes backward.


    You Zhichao watched this scene and exchanged a concealed glance with Zhu Fei at the card table, both simultaneously laughing.


    Yue Jiannan hurriedly found an empty seat, grabbed the cards dealt to him, and started another day¡¯s amusement.


    Today his luck wasn¡¯t as good as yesterday¡¯s, with wins and losses, but overall, he ended up slightly earning something.


    Until lunchtime, Yue Jiannan hadn¡¯t left the card table.


    Even though his stomach growled with hunger, his eyes saw only the suits of the cards.


    Fortunately, You Zhichao was considerate enough to have his wife bring a large pot of rice, selling each portion very fairly, without making much profit.


    Even though the cooking wasn¡¯t nearly as tasty as home-cooked meals, Yue Jiannan still bought a portion and wolfed it down.


    Yue Jiannan couldn¡¯t help but sigh, ¡°You Ge, you are truly a good man, not even making money off the meals.¡±


    You Zhichao laughed heartily, his black mole by his nose quivering.


    ¡°Of course, it¡¯s all about serving the people, making everything convenient for everyone.¡±


    Yue Jiannan gave him a thumbs up and dived back into the card game.

 Chapter 104: 104: Definitely Turn the Tables

    Chapter 104: Chapter 104: Definitely Turn the Tables


    In the not-so-spacious room, the sounds of mahjong and poker intertwined.


    Expressions of regret and cries of excitement rose and fell.


    However, in such an environment, Yue Jiannan seemed bizarrely unable to see the people around him or hear any superfluous noise.


    It appeared that only the cards in his hands could catch his eyes.


    Yet sometimes, the noise was too loud and inevitably disturbed him.


    Yue Jiannan was about to place a bet when suddenly he heard a scream from the neighboring table.


    ...


    ¡°I... how did I lose?¡±


    All the cash in front of him had been swept away by the winner, leaving only a crumpled, empty cigarette pack.


    ¡°Hurry up and step aside; others are waiting behind you,¡± someone urged the man to leave the table, but he clearly did not want to.


    ¡°I can turn the tables; I¡¯m sure of it!¡± he clung to the table, refusing to leave despite others shoving him.


    Spectators around them buzzed with comments.


    ¡°Mao Hui, you have no money left. How can you turn the tables?¡±


    ¡°Just go home and bring some money; your house isn¡¯t far, it¡¯ll only take a moment.¡±


    Some who had stayed long in the room faintly recalled that Mao Hui seemed to lose a considerable amount of money every day.


    His family was not wealthy to begin with; after all, how much could he still bring?


    Mao Hui gritted his back teeth; he knew all too well that besides a few bags of grain, all the cash at home had been lost at this card table.


    His mind was full of irritation, not over losing the money, but because he couldn¡¯t come up with any extra cash.


    Mao Hui felt that he could definitely change his luck in the next round; he was so close to winning just before!


    He looked at You Zhichao with a face full of pleading,¡±You Zhichao, lend me some money. I¡¯ll pay you back once I win.¡±


    You Zhichao stroked his chin, troubled, ¡°Isn¡¯t that risky? What happens if you cannot pay me back? I¡¯m not into risky deals.¡±


    ¡°I can pay you back; I¡¯m sure I will!¡±


    You Zhichao shook his head, urging him off the table, ¡°Forget it, stop playing if you¡¯ve lost money, and go home to rest early.¡±


    The more he was urged, the more Mao Hui couldn¡¯t bear to leave, desperately pleading, ¡°You Zhichao, please do me this favor. I just need twenty, and I¡¯ll give you twenty-five tomorrow.¡±


    You Zhichao hesitated, ¡°What if you can¡¯t pay it back?¡±


    ¡°I still have land at home; I¡¯ll compensate you with the land if it comes to that,¡± Mao Hui was downright obsessed, with his mind completely fixed on turning the tables.


    He believed that once he had the money, he could not only break even but also make a large profit.


    In the beginning, he had been quite lucky and won quite a bit.


    You Zhichao seemed to be persuaded, sighing helplessly, ¡°Alright, then I¡¯ll write an IOU, and you need to sign it.¡±


    Soon, You Zhichao produced an IOU with handwriting as ugly as worms, but Mao Hui hurried to sign it impatiently.


    ¡°You can read, so don¡¯t claim later that I duped you.¡±


    Mao Hui nodded repeatedly, taking two large denomination bills from You Zhichao.


    ¡°Thank you, You Zhichao; I will definitely repay you.¡±


    The people at Mao Hui¡¯s table stopped making a fuss and continued to play cards with smiles on their faces.


    This interruption, however, made Yue Jiannan sharply pause, a thought flickering through his mind.


    Yet in the next game, Mao Hui actually won big and managed to recover three dollars¡ªalmost all of his interest.


    People around him congratulated him, and Mao Hui was all smiles himself.


    Seeing this, Yue Jiannan relaxed and continued to focus on the cards in his hand.


    Hey, he had dealt a good hand this time; he was sure to win.


    Money came too quickly in such card games; had he known about this kind of place earlier, wouldn¡¯t the Yue Family have become rich long ago?


    Why then had they been poor for so many years?


    As Yue Jiannan pondered, he placed his notes down in front of him.


    ¡°I¡¯ll match it, double the bet!¡±

 Chapter 105: 105 Indifferent

    Chapter 105: Chapter 105 Indifferent


    Yue Jiannan came home even later today than yesterday.


    With winter¡¯s arrival, it grew dark early, and Yue Jiannan could hardly see the road beneath his feet as he walked.


    But his spirits were high.


    The day had started with wins and losses, yet towards the end, his luck turned so good he ended up earning twice what he had the day before.


    Yue Jiannan touched the money in his pocket, feeling everything had come so easily.


    Making money this way was much easier than raising fish.


    ...


    Not to mention feeding the fish in the pond every day, he also had to constantly watch for any sick fish or any floating at the top.


    It was endless worry, day after day.


    By the time Yue Jiannan got home, the dishes on the table had gone cold, and Lin Chunju¡¯s face was ashen.


    ¡°Where have you been? If you¡¯re not coming home, at least send someone to inform us! Your two brothers went out looking for you and didn¡¯t catch a glimpse of you anywhere.¡±


    In the past, Yue Jiannan would readily admit his wrongs, but today, whether it was the money in his pocket giving him confidence or some other reason,


    he just casually responded, ¡°You guys should have eaten first, no need to wait for me.¡±


    With a smack, Lin Chunju slammed her chopsticks down hard on the table.


    ¡°Yue Jiannan, tell me the truth today, where the hell have you been?¡±


    Zhang Ying and Wang Xiaoni were startled, shuddering. It was rare for the mother-in-law to call someone by their full name like that; she was truly furious.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you yesterday? I was just out playing with friends. Mom, I¡¯m already a big guy; I couldn¡¯t possibly get lost, could I?¡±


    Lin Chunju grew even angrier, ¡°Oh, so you¡¯re all grown up now, and I can¡¯t control you anymore, is that it?¡±


    Yue Jiannan argued, ¡°It¡¯s only that I came back a bit late, why are you making such a big deal out of it? Is it worth it?¡±


    ¡°Only came back a bit late?¡± Lin Chunju repeated, giving Yue Jiannan a cold stare.


    Her gaze was icy as frost.


    ¡°We finally have a little nest egg in the family, and you go off to gamble just like those others!¡±


    Yue Jiannan was startled, he hadn¡¯t expected his mother to know even this.


    Yue Jiandong stared at his brother, ¡°When you didn¡¯t come back by supper time, mom had me and second brother go out to look for you, and I had to ask around to find out where you were.¡±


    After Yue Jiandong came back and told mom, he wanted to drag the third brother away from the gambling table.


    But Lin Chunju stopped him.


    Bringing Yue Jiannan back in front of everyone would surely lead to a commotion.


    After all, Yue Jiannan was young and hot-blooded, with a strong sense of pride.


    If he faced a loss of face in public, he might take a reckless attitude and choose not to come home at all afterward.


    So the family waited, hungry, for Yue Jiannan to come home before causing a scene, but they didn¡¯t expect him to act so indifferent.


    Busted, Yue Jiannan kept his head down, not speaking a word, while Lin Chunju¡¯s every word pierced his ears.


    ¡°When I was your age, I had my share of experiences. I saw rich families with assets think they were secure, yet some of their descendants took to opium, others gambled, and in the end, many decent people became worthless, stuck in the mud, unable to be helped by their families, dragging everyone down with them.¡±


    ¡°No matter how substantial the family wealth, once it¡¯s tainted by either of these two vices, even mountains of gold and silver will be squandered! The Yue Family isn¡¯t some exceptionally wealthy family, we can¡¯t afford such reckless waste.¡±


    ¡°Others were tempted as well, why didn¡¯t your two brothers go? Because they know it¡¯s no good. You¡¯re young and don¡¯t understand many things. Your mother can teach you, but she can¡¯t be there to control you all your life!¡±


    Lin Chunju gave a long speech, and Yue Jiannan heard it all, but it didn¡¯t sink in at all.


    No matter how mysterious or terrifying mom¡¯s words were, they couldn¡¯t outweigh the money in his pocket.


    Those people losing their fortunes had nothing to do with him, Yue Jiannan.


    With such good luck, how could mom be so sure he couldn¡¯t win back mountains of gold and silver?


    Seeing his attitude, Lin Chunju realized what was going through Yue Jiannan¡¯s mind.


    She took a deep breath, ¡°Alright, we¡¯re all hungry, let¡¯s eat first. After dinner, third son, you come to my room with me.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Yue Jiannan replied, glancing at the broom not far away.


    It looked like he was in for another beating. Well, let it come. Once he won a lot of money in the future, mom would surely not be angry anymore, and who knows, she might even apologize to him.

 Chapter 106: 106 Lets Play Too

    Chapter 106: Chapter 106 Let¡¯s Play Too


    The Yue family¡¯s dinner was exceptionally quiet.


    Only Yue Xiaohu and Yue Xingxing occasionally spoke a few words, had their heads patted by family members, and then continued to bow their heads and focus on their rice bowls.


    Speaking of fear, Yue Jiannan was certainly scared.


    But he didn¡¯t think he was wrong.


    Indeed, gambling was not a good thing, but since he was on the winning side and the money hadn¡¯t left his pocket, how could he be scolded for being a wastrel?


    Having barely managed to eat his meal with trepidation, Lin Chunju turned around to collect the bowls.


    ...


    This, however, made Yue Jiannan feel even more uncomfortable.


    If Lin Chunju had just beaten him without a word, he definitely wouldn¡¯t have thought much of it.


    But now, caught in uncertainty, he was unclear about what his mother intended to do, and fear began to layer in his heart.


    He finally couldn¡¯t take it anymore and whispered to Yue Jiandong.


    ¡°Big brother, can you just tell me what mother is planning to do?¡±


    Death is only a stroke beyond the line, what¡¯s the meaning of leaving him hanging like this?


    Yue Jiandong replied irritably, ¡°Who knows.¡±


    After speaking, he ignored Jiannan. His brother was smart, but sometimes he was so impetuous that it made one feel like giving him a beating.


    Yue Jiannan then went to ask his second brother, but Yue Jianxi didn¡¯t pay any attention to him at all and turned to take the two children back to the room.


    Yue Jiannan stood there, feeling somewhat upset.


    He had only gone out to play for two days and even brought back winnings, yet his family was treating him with such an attitude.


    Finally, Lin Chunju came back from the kitchen and said indifferently to Yue Jiannan, ¡°Come with me.¡±


    Yue Jiannan let out a sigh of relief, picking up the broom on the ground.


    Lin Chunju frowned, ¡°What are you doing with that? Put it down.¡±


    Yue Jiannan put the broom back in the corner, it seemed that today his mother was preparing to beat him with something else.


    Yue Qingqing also followed into the room, trotting with her short legs.


    Yue Jiannan instinctively wanted to pick her up, but Yue Qingqing dodged past him and even stuck out her tongue at him.


    Yue Jiannan could only lower his head and follow behind.


    After entering the room, he found that there wasn¡¯t any ¡°torture device¡± set up inside, and everything looked as usual. Yue Jiannan finally broke down.


    ¡°Mother, just get it over with,¡± he pleaded.


    Lin Chunju looked at him and took something out of the wardrobe.


    Yue Jiannan looked closely and was surprised to see something very familiar ¨C it was the deck of playing cards he had been using recently.


    Lin Chunju leisurely opened the pack, ¡°I had your second brother rush out to buy these. You like playing cards, right? Let¡¯s play too.¡±


    Yue Jiannan felt a chill, ¡°What are you planning to do?¡±


    Lin Chunju glanced at him and started shuffling the cards.


    It was evident that Lin Chunju hadn¡¯t played much before, as her movements were clumsy and several cards flew out.


    Yue Jiannan picked them up from the floor and placed them back in the deck.


    Yue Qingqing sat obediently next to her grandmother, her large, grape-like eyes glancing now at the cards, now at Yue Jiannan.


    It took a while for Lin Chunju to deal the new deck and place it on the table.


    ¡°I¡¯ve never played this thing before, I don¡¯t know how to do it, let¡¯s just play the simplest game of high card wins,¡± she suggested.


    Seeing that his mother really wanted to play cards with him, Yue Jiannan was petrified and remained silent for a long time.


    It was Lin Chunju again who urged him, ¡°How much money do you have in your pocket? We need a stake to play cards, right?¡±


    Yue Jiannan just let go, partly out of spite, and took out all the money in his pocket. He counted it in front of Lin Chunju.


    It added up to seventeen yuan and three jiao, which was quite a bit more than the pocket money Lin Chunju had originally given him.


    ¡°It¡¯s all here,¡± he said.


    Yue Jiannan deliberately placed the money in front of Lin Chunju with a hint of pride on his face.


    Lin Chunju glanced at it and grunted, then took out some money from the cabinet.


    ¡°Then let¡¯s begin. We¡¯ll just play high card wins, one yuan per bet,¡± she declared.


    Yue Jiannan nodded casually, ¡°Okay.¡±


    As he watched his mother getting ready to play cards, Yue Jiannan finally relaxed.


    However, he didn¡¯t notice the sweet, yet definitely malicious smile appearing on Yue Qingqing¡¯s face as she sat next to Lin Chunju.

 Chapter 107: 107 Continue

    Chapter 107: Chapter 107 Continue


    ¡°You deal the cards,¡±


    Lin Chunju pushed a stack of cards toward Yue Jiannan, and Yue Jiannan, without any hesitation, took them and shuffled twice.


    His movements were deft, indicating he had indeed played quite a bit over the past few days.


    The rules of the game were simple enough.


    Each player got one card; both bet, and the one with the higher card won, taking all the chips.


    Yue Jiannan dealt the cards, one in front of him and another in front of Lin Chunju.


    ...


    Yue Jiannan placed one yuan in the middle, and Lin Chunju did the same.


    ¡°I...¡±


    Just as Yue Jiannan was about to speak, Lin Chunju, without even looking at her card, tossed it aside.


    ¡°I lost this round. Continue,¡± she said.


    Yue Jiannan, baffled, took back both yuan and flipped over his card. It was a 9.


    Curious, he picked up Lin Chunju¡¯s discarded card, only to find a 5.


    ¡°Indeed, mine is higher, but why wouldn¡¯t you check your card?¡± Yue Jiannan thought Lin Chunju didn¡¯t understand the rules.


    Lin Chunju, growing impatient, said, ¡°Just continue.¡±


    Yue Jiannan dealt the cards again, feeling utterly confused, as Lin Chunju still didn¡¯t even glance at hers before discarding it.


    ¡°I lost, continue,¡± she stated.


    Yue Jiannan checked and saw that he¡¯d won again.


    Winning the first two games made him quite proud.


    ¡°See, I do have a bit of a talent for this,¡± he boasted.


    Lin Chunju just gave a cold smile, saying nothing more.


    Yue Jiannan shuffled and dealt once more. Lin Chunju looked at the card in front of her, yet again without turning it over.


    ¡°Raise,¡± Lin Chunju added another yuan, and Yue Jiannan revealed his card, seeing a Q.


    Not many cards could beat that.


    He felt reassured and matched the raise.


    Lin Chunju, expressionless, said, ¡°Raise again.¡±


    Yue Jiannan chuckled, ¡°Mother, you should take a look at the size of your card. How can you win by guessing like this?¡±


    ¡°None of your damn business, are you raising or not?¡± Lin Chunju retorted bluntly.


    ¡°Raise!¡± Yue Jiannan was defiant.


    The two of them went back and forth until the pot reached five yuan.


    Yue Jiannan was hesitant to follow, mainly because he was afraid his mother couldn¡¯t afford the loss and would end up thrashing him.


    ¡°Forget it, let¡¯s show,¡± Yue Jiannan flipped over Lin Chunju¡¯s card and it turned out to be a K.


    The money he had just won was gone in a blink of an eye, and he was even three yuan in the hole.


    Yue Jiannan found it odd.


    But he had dealt the cards himself, and the deck was new; moreover, Lin Chunju clearly had not known how to play cards before, so there seemed no way she could have cheated.


    His gaze then fell on Yue Qingqing¡¯s face; everyone in the Yue family knew that despite her young age, Qingqing was clever and not to be underestimated.


    If Yue Qingqing had been standing behind him, Yue Jiannan might have suspected the little one was signaling to their mother.


    But Yue Qingqing was sitting properly beside Lin Chunju, clearly unable to see his cards.


    Besides, his mother hadn¡¯t even looked at her own hole card.


    ¡°Why stop playing? Can¡¯t handle a loss?¡±


    Lin Chunju scoffed, and Yue Jiannan was immediately provoked.


    ¡°Who says I can¡¯t handle a loss? Continue!¡±


    However, what followed only made Yue Jiannan more confused.


    Whenever his mother discarded her card without a second glance, it was surely lower than his; if she raised, her card was definitely higher.


    Towards the end, Yue Jiannan felt as if he had encountered a ghost. Lin Chunju clearly hadn¡¯t looked at the cards, she hadn¡¯t even touched them, so how did she know which were higher or lower?


    He couldn¡¯t find a reason, and the more he thought about it, the more uncomfortable he became. Whenever Lin Chunju placed a bet, he started to panic.


    The money in front of him was quickly disappearing.


    Yue Jiannan scratched his head, feeling a sense of helplessness as if all his efforts were futile.


    Before long, his spot was completely empty.


    In just a quarter of an hour, all of Yue Jiannan¡¯s money had ended up in front of Lin Chunju, not a single yuan left.


    The sound of cards scattering echoed.


    Yue Jiannan could no longer hold onto the cards, and they spilled all over the floor.


    Lin Chunju bent down, picking up the cards one by one and stacking them in front of her son.


    ¡°Continue!¡±

 Chapter 108: 108 I Know I Was Wrong

    Chapter 108: Chapter 108 I Know I Was Wrong


    Upon hearing the word ¡°continue,¡± Yue Jiannan couldn¡¯t help but shudder.


    ¡°I... I have no money left, how can I continue?¡±


    Lin Chunju sneered, ¡°You might be out of money, but you still have family¡ªyou have your brother, your sister, and your old mother to give you money.¡±


    ¡°You can mortgage the house and land to pay off debts, the Yue family rented a fish pond, you can also exchange that for money.¡±


    Yue Jiannan¡¯s face turned paler and paler, and he tried to argue, ¡°Mother, I cannot...¡±


    Lin Chunju cut him off, ¡°You think you cannot now, but those who get carried away at the gambling table and want to turn things around don¡¯t care about the consequences, as long as they can keep you gambling, you would dare sign any document.¡±


    ...


    Yue Jiannan immediately thought of Mao Hui; wasn¡¯t that person exactly like that?


    Lin Chunju stood up and hurled playing cards at Yue Jiannan.


    The cards slammed into his face, the edges cutting painfully across his face.


    Yet that jolted Yue Jiannan to a better sense of reality.


    ¡°Wait until there¡¯s no house, no land left, and with three children at home, you could even consider selling these children, have you thought about that?¡±


    Yue Jiannan¡¯s body turned ice cold, as if frozen.


    In the village, there had always been looked-down-upon gamblers who, in the heat of the moment, had even mortgaged their wives and children, only to end up having a hand chopped off.


    But even so, he still habitually squeezed in at the gambling table.


    In the end, that man disappeared without a trace, villagers guessed he died in some filthy ditch.


    No family members ever bothered to look for him, to claim his body.


    Previously, Yue Jiannan had never thought about these things because he felt he was lucky, always winning money.


    But today, his mother, who doesn¡¯t know how to play cards, had managed to make him lose miserably, which made Yue Jiannan more and more scared as he thought about it.


    Soon, his entire back was soaked with sweat.


    ¡°Mother!¡±


    The ground was covered with playing cards, and Yue Jiannan suddenly knelt down.


    ¡°I realize my mistake, I shouldn¡¯t gamble.¡±


    Lin Chunju didn¡¯t help him up.


    Gambling is no trivial matter, and Yue Jiannan, being young, could be easily coaxed into falling back into it.


    If this root wasn¡¯t cut from the start, who knows, he might be lured back to the gambling table again.


    ¡°Stay at home for the next couple of days and keep yourself grounded.¡±


    Yue Jiannan agreed shamefully, and only then did Lin Chunju let him get up, and they together picked up the cards from the floor.


    Lin Chunju gathered the playing cards and handed them to him, ¡°Take this deck back to your room and think hard about it.¡±


    Without saying anything harsher, Yue Jiannan felt as if he had been slapped hard across the face, his cheeks burning red.


    He hesitated for a long moment before taking the cards.


    ¡°Mother, I understand now.¡±


    Yue Jiannan hung his head and left the room, Lin Chunju breathed a sigh of relief.


    ¡°Grandma, don¡¯t be mad.¡± Yue Qingqing climbed into Lin Chunju¡¯s lap, softly consoling her.


    Lin Chunju stroked her hair, ¡°Qingqing, I¡¯m lucky to have you around.¡±


    Before Yue Jiannan came back, Lin Chunju had thought of many strategies, eventually deciding on this method.


    During the game, Yue Qingqing was sitting right beside her.


    If they were losing the game, Qingqing would tap once in her palm; if winning, she¡¯d tap twice.


    For Yue Qingqing, all this was too easy to accomplish.


    She didn¡¯t even need to use her Spiritual Energy to see the perspective cards; she could just look up and read Yue Jiannan¡¯s energy to know the outcome.


    ¡°I think Uncle truly realizes his mistake; he will surely change.¡±


    Lin Chunju sighed, ¡°Let¡¯s hope so. The boy isn¡¯t bad-natured; he just always thinks he¡¯s smarter than he is, not realizing the world is full of smarter people.¡±


    Outsmarting oneself, that¡¯s exactly what it means for people like the third brother.


    Just as Yue Qingqing had said, Yue Jiannan was truly suffering.


    Especially when he returned to his room and flipped the playing cards over and over again, unable to find any tricks, he was even more startled and frightened.


    He couldn¡¯t see through his mother¡¯s tricks, let alone those of the more experienced people out there.


    Yue Jiannan was indeed clever and quickly realized something about his streak of good luck over the last few days.


    These people had probably let him win from the start.


    If it hadn¡¯t been for his mother¡¯s severe warning, he probably would have ended up ruined at the gambling table!

 Chapter 109: 109: The bait is gone, and so is the fish

    Chapter 109: Chapter 109: The bait is gone, and so is the fish


    The next day, Yue Jiannan didn¡¯t dare to go out again and honestly nestled at home.


    He got up in the morning and, with a broom in hand, silently cleaned the entire courtyard inside and out until it was spotless.


    Zhang Ying and Wang Xiaoni only realized after they woke up that their work had been stolen by the third brother.


    Exchanging glances, both were surprised.


    Everyone had seen Yue Jiannan¡¯s attitude the day before, which was clearly defiant.


    But looking at him today, he seemed like a good child who knew his mistakes and had corrected them; no one knew how his mother had educated him.


    ...


    On the other side, the mood of You Zhichao, Zhu Fei, and the others was not so wonderful.


    They were all ready today, intentionally planning to make Yue Jiannan lose some money.


    Not a large amount, just a little, to make him feel his luck was just slightly off and that he would surely bet more the next day to win it back.


    You Zhichao¡¯s method was actually learned from people in other villages and completely grasped the psyche of a gambler.


    Tried and true.


    Most young people would easily take the bait.


    Once they were truly mired in it, even if their family members pleaded with them earnestly, they couldn¡¯t be persuaded.


    But although the two men had a comprehensive plan, their main target hadn¡¯t shown up.


    They waited and waited, and by noon, there was still no sign of Yue Jiannan.


    Zhu Fei began to lose patience and had someone swap out for him at the card table, then quietly walked over to You Zhichao¡¯s side.


    ¡°Brother You, should we go to his house and have a look?¡±


    If Yue Jiannan had never showed up, that would have been that, but these past two days, to get him hooked, the two had invested a significant amount of their own money.


    Now that the bait had been swallowed and the fish had yet to be caught, there was no way they would remain calm and collected.


    After pondering for a while, You Zhichao also felt frustrated, ¡°Let¡¯s go have a look, we can¡¯t let him just slip away.¡±


    After the harvest season, every household had some spare cash, which was why they could continue running their card games.


    However, they didn¡¯t target just anyone; they disdained to cheat those who were either too poor or lacked family support.


    It was targets like Yue Jiannan, the pampered youngest son of a family that had just earned a significant amount of money from contracting a fish pond, who they focused on.


    Their plan was at least to win the money Yue Family had made from selling fish, but now, just as they¡¯d started, the person had disappeared.


    ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll find a couple of people who get along well with Jiannan to accompany us and take a look.¡±


    You Zhichao nodded, continuing to hold down the fort, while Zhu Fei took some people with him to the Yue Family¡¯s home.


    Zhang Ying was hanging clothes in the outer courtyard when she looked up and saw several familiar faces approaching their house.


    She hurriedly turned back to her room as Lin Chunju had instructed.


    ¡°Mother, someone¡¯s here, probably looking for the third brother. I saw one of them who often hangs out with him.¡±


    Lin Chunju responded and looked at Yue Jiannan.


    ¡°What now? People are coming to your house, aren¡¯t you going to join them?¡±


    Yue Jiannan hurriedly appeased her with a smile, ¡°Mother, I definitely won¡¯t go; I... I¡¯ll go check on how sister¡¯s clothes are coming along.¡±


    He looked guiltily and went to find Yue Xiaofang, while Lin Chunju took Yue Qingqing by the hand to the outer courtyard.


    They arrived just as Zhu Fei and the others came to the door.


    ¡°Oh my, Auntie Lin, it¡¯s been a while, and this must be Brother Yue¡¯s daughter beside you, she¡¯s grown so pretty.¡±


    Zhu Fei¡¯s face was full of smiles, which, complemented by his chubby cheeks, made him appear naturally harmless and quite likable.


    Lin Chunju also played along amiably, ¡°It has been a long time indeed. Are you guys looking for the third one?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, we finally got some free time and arranged to hang out with Jiannan. We agreed to go out together today, but he didn¡¯t show up. Did he oversleep or something?¡±


    Lin Chunju feigned confusion, ¡°Impossible. The third one left early in the morning.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Zhu Fei was genuinely perplexed at this point.


    Lin Chunju elaborated, ¡°Didn¡¯t he say he was going to the neighboring village? Didn¡¯t you arrange to meet up?¡±


    Zhu Fei suddenly remembered something, and his expression quickly darkened.


    Lin Chunju watched as he fell silent, then Zhu Fei hastily put on a smile again.


    ¡°There might have been some miscommunication, I guess. I¡¯ll arrange another time with Jiannan. I¡¯ll be off now.¡±


    ¡°Mhm.¡± Lin Chunju watched their retreating figures and, after a moment, let out a cold snort.


    ¡°Pah, no-good rascals!¡±


    Yue Qingqing mimicked the action and spat as well.


    Those who harm others will eventually harm themselves; these people¡¯s days ahead wouldn¡¯t be easy.

 Chapter 110: 110 I Have an Idea

    Chapter 110: Chapter 110 I Have an Idea


    Zhu Fei returned and spoke to You Zhichao about the situation.


    ¡°Couldn¡¯t find anyone; Widow Lin said he had gone to another village.¡±


    You Zhichao narrowed his eyes, touching the mole on his face, ¡°He wouldn¡¯t have gone to Zhang Maz¡¯s, would he?¡±


    After all, he had learned this whole setup from Zhang Maz.


    Daye Village was ultimately poor, and the card games You Zhichao ran were never played for high stakes, but at Zhang Maz¡¯s place, it was said that the losses and wins could be in the tens or even hundreds.


    Could Yue Jiannan have won for a couple of days, started thinking he could be the gambling god, and purposely gone to a bigger venue to play?


    ...


    Zhu Fei felt this was indeed the truth, ¡°You saw Yue Jiannan yesterday, he was deep in his addiction; he definitely wouldn¡¯t quit overnight.¡±


    You Zhichao sighed, as it was impossible for him to go to another village to look for him.


    Moreover, since Zhang Maz was somewhat his mentor, it wouldn¡¯t be proper for him to go to his games, as it would easily cause problems.


    After much thought, You Zhichao could only grimly say, ¡°Forget it, it turned out to be a boon for Zhang Maz.¡±


    Feeling discontent, he wanted someone to vent his frustrations on.


    You Zhichao strode over to a man, and with a fierce kick, he kicked the man¡¯s chair.


    The man jumped in shock and turned around, seeing it was You Zhichao, he immediately gave a pitifully obsequious look.


    ¡°You Ge...¡±


    You Zhichao said nastily, ¡°Mao Hui, you promised you¡¯d pay back the money today. Where is it?¡±


    ¡°I, I¡¯m just a bit short, but rest assured, I can win it back right away.¡±


    As if he could win it back, You Zhichao swooped a knowing glance over the few people at the card table.


    ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll wait for your repayment today, but if you don¡¯t have it by tonight...¡±


    You Zhichao smirked coldly, making Mao Hui shiver uncontrollably.


    In fact, he had lost a considerable amount of money yesterday, leaving only a pitiful few banknotes.


    Thinking of the money he owed You Zhichao, he wouldn¡¯t dare to come today, but how could he recover his losses if he didn¡¯t come?


    Moreover, this ordinary card table, like a hook, was irresistibly captivating to him.


    He didn¡¯t even feel like eating this morning, just eager to get here quickly.


    ¡°You Ge, I¡¯m sure I can win!¡±


    Mao Hui insisted repeatedly, while You Zhichao shook the paper in his hand.


    ¡°No problem, it¡¯s written right here anyway. If you can¡¯t pay it back, the interest doubles. You¡¯ll keep paying until you¡¯re clear. And if need be, you can still mortgage your family¡¯s land.¡±


    Mao Hui looked like he was about to cry, his hands trembling as he held the cards, but he was crazily reluctant to leave.


    He could make a comeback...this time he surely wouldn¡¯t lose!


    Meanwhile, the Yue Family remained completely unaware of all this.


    Lin Chunju had no idea that her offhand remark had caused Zhu Fei and You Zhichao to misunderstand.


    She had even prepared herself for the next time these people came, thinking of how to handle them.


    But for the next few days, it was very quiet, and surprisingly, no one came to cause trouble.


    They didn¡¯t come to cause trouble, yet Lin Chunju was not willing to let them off the hook.


    Lin Chunju took Yue Jiannan to visit Mayor Zhang specifically, and told him all about these matters.


    Mayor Zhang didn¡¯t need her to come; he had already sensed something fishy.


    ¡°Sigh, I¡¯ve actually noticed recently¡ªmore than one person has approached me in the village, entrusting their lands to You Zhichao and Zhu Fei,¡± Mayor Zhang said.


    He didn¡¯t say that it wasn¡¯t just Daye Village; surrounding villages faced similar situations.


    These card games, like a plague, quickly spread among the young people in each village.


    Lin Chunju asked, ¡°I remember it was mentioned before that the state doesn¡¯t allow these activities, right?¡±


    Now, with few recreational activities, many villages easily develop these bad habits, with some malicious people setting traps specifically.


    Causing many families to be ruined, even selling the land passed down from their ancestors.


    Such cases became so numerous that the state simply issued a ban, and organizers were to be arrested and jailed.


    Mayor Zhang helplessly shook his head, ¡°These people are very cunning, always having someone on lookout at the entrance. Any slight movement is detected, making it hard to catch them.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Yue Jiannan got an idea, ¡°Mayor Zhang...I actually have an idea.¡±

 Chapter 111: 111: Die Far Away from Me

    Chapter 111: Chapter 111: Die Far Away from Me


    That day, You Zhichao and Zhu Fei were pleasantly surprised to discover that Yue Jiannan had come again.


    They had thought this fat sheep was about to be slaughtered by someone else, but unexpectedly, he had returned to the mercy of their own blade.


    A smile on You Zhichao¡¯s face was almost impossible to hide, ¡°Little brother Yue, haven¡¯t seen you in a few days. What brings you here today?¡±


    Yue Jiannan let out a sigh and couldn¡¯t help complaining, ¡°I went to play in another village for a couple of days, but I always felt that my luck isn¡¯t as good as it is here. Maybe this place is my feng shui treasure land.¡±


    You Zhichao chuckled inwardly, thinking that when you, an outsider, go to play there, they surely won¡¯t think about playing the long game and fishing for big fish like I do. No wonder you can¡¯t win.


    But he didn¡¯t show it on his face, and very enthusiastically found a spot for Yue Jiannan, ¡°Come, come, have a good time at Brother You¡¯s place. If you¡¯re thirsty or hungry, just say the word, I¡¯ll have someone take care of it for you.¡±


    ...


    Yue Jiannan acted as if he was flattered, thanking him repeatedly.


    He couldn¡¯t help but rue his own blindness. If You Zhichao didn¡¯t have designs on him, why would he be so attentive?


    It¡¯s a pity that every time he sat down at the card table, his mind would fog up, unable to distinguish between man and dog.


    You Zhichao gave Zhu Fei a hand signal.


    To firmly hook Yue Jiannan, this big fish, and to prevent him from getting away again, the two of them put in a lot of effort.


    Yue Jiannan had been winning money for three consecutive days, each time more than the last.


    His behavior became increasingly wild, and the bets he placed were several times larger than before.


    You Zhichao felt the time was right. After sharpening his knife for several days, he prepared to slaughter him today.


    That day, Yue Jiannan didn¡¯t arrive first thing in the morning; in his words, he was held up by his old mother at home.


    Zhu Fei knew that Widow Lin was a rare clever person in the village, and didn¡¯t ask further.


    After all, Yue Jiannan, this fish, had already been hooked by them. Just pulling on the line a bit would reel him in; he wouldn¡¯t get away again.


    When the time came, even if Widow Lin was shrewd, she would have to shell out a lot for her youngest son.


    The poker table soon livened up, and amidst the choking smoke, Yue Jiannan lost a few hands and seemed a bit agitated.


    The others playing deliberately provoked him with their words, and Yue Jiannan, somewhat annoyed, quickly clamored to ¡°play a big one.¡±


    You Zhichao watched from the side, sneering in his heart.


    However, just at that moment, a commotion arose outside the house, and everyone immediately stopped in their tracks, on alert.


    Soon, someone hid the playing cards from the table, and money was stuffed back into pockets.


    Upon opening the door, it turned out to be Mao Hui.


    Having not seen him for several days, Mao Hui looked extremely wretched, his face bruised and battered as though he¡¯d been severely beaten.


    He also walked unevenly, dragging one leg behind him.


    You Zhichao frowned upon seeing him, ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    Mao Hui knelt on the ground and started kowtowing, ¡°Brother You, I beg you, please give me back my land. My parents are about to beat me to death. Please give me a way out.¡±


    You Zhichao was impatient, ¡°Debts must be repaid; it¡¯s a principle of heaven and earth.¡±


    Mao Hui pleaded desperately, ¡°All together, I owe you no more than seventy or eighty yuan. My family¡¯s land can fetch at least two hundred yuan a year in rent. You can¡¯t be so heartless.¡±


    He didn¡¯t know what had come over him at that time; he was so eager to turn his losses that You Zhichao had him take out three IOUs in a row, each for an increasing amount.


    In the end, even though he only owed thirty, You Zhichao had him write down a debt of fifty, and the interest kept doubling daily.


    When all was tallied, it turned out he had to repay You Zhichao seven or eight hundred yuan, and so he had to use his family¡¯s land to cover the debt.


    By the time his family found out about it, Mao Hui had already completed the paperwork.


    His old mother, unable to bear it, cried every day at home.


    One moment, she wanted to hang herself; the next, she wanted to jump into the river.


    Mao Hui¡¯s father often beat him with a stick. No matter how much Mao Hui knelt and begged for mercy, it was to no avail.


    Mao Hui had indeed given away his family¡¯s lifeline.


    If it weren¡¯t for the fact that he was the only son in the family, his old man might have beaten him to death.


    Looking at the person in front of him crying his eyes out, You Zhichao felt not a shred of sympathy.


    ¡°It was you who wanted to gamble in the first place. If you¡¯re a man, don¡¯t whine about losing.¡±


    He turned to go back inside, but his leg was seized by Mao Hui, who clung on for dear life.


    ¡°Brother You, I beg you, if you don¡¯t help me, you¡¯re sending me to die.¡±


    You Zhichao lifted his foot and kicked Mao Hui, sending him rolling on the ground.


    ¡°Get lost, and if you¡¯re going to die, die far away from me!¡±

 Chapter 112: 112: There is Always Knocking at the Door

    Chapter 112: Chapter 112: There is Always Knocking at the Door


    Everyone saw what happened.


    But it didn¡¯t bring any feelings to the people at the table.


    The winners thought their luck was booming and firmly believed they wouldn¡¯t end up in that situation.


    The losers were even more absorbed, their eyes bloodshot as they stared at the card table.


    Only Yue Jiannan, who had things weighing on his mind, watched this scene, feeling numb from the spine up.


    Mao Hui used to be a young man envied by the village, the only child in his family, exceptionally loved by his parents, which made others jealous of his life.


    ...


    But now he looked just like his mother described, like trash stuck in the mud.


    After someone helped Mao Hui away, You Zhichao greeted people in the room with a smile again.


    ¡°Let¡¯s continue, don¡¯t lose the fun.¡±


    Human joys and sorrows do not convey, no one took Mao Hui¡¯s situation to heart, at most, they casually lamented his poor luck, wondering if he didn¡¯t wash his hands after using the restroom.


    He used to win money quite often when he first came here.


    The room became lively again, with You Zhichao pacing back and forth, occasionally greeting those who won more money with a grin.


    After distributing a round of cigarettes, You Zhichao stepped outside again.


    The weather had already turned cold, yet a few men stood like pillars outside, puffing out smoke while looking around.


    ¡°Nothing unusual today, right?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, You bro, we¡¯re watching. If anything happens, we¡¯ll notify inside right away.¡±


    You Zhichao nodded and then returned to the room satisfied.


    There were a few people in the room he was always watching, including Yue Jiannan.


    Yue Jiannan had lost two rounds but won a big one afterward, which made him quite proud.


    You Zhichao watched from a distance and sneered inwardly.


    Just then, the door was knocked on again, and the alert people in the room paused, stowing the cards again.


    Since there was no alarm from outside, You Zhichao casually opened the door, only to find no one there.


    But wait...


    He looked down and saw two little bundles at his feet.


    ¡°We¡¯re here to find uncle,¡± Yue Xingxing said before she could finish, coughing incessantly, choked by the smoke inside.


    ¡°Looking for uncle,¡± Yue Qingqing repeated, peeking curiously into the room.


    The children were so attractive that everyone in the room involuntarily stopped and stared curiously at the two kids.


    No one knew how they had found the place.


    Yue Jiannan hastily threw the freshly dealt cards aside, ¡°Sorry, I have to skip this round; I need to check on the kids at home.¡±


    The dealer, who was just about to heavily cut into Yue Jiannan¡¯s stack, twitched a corner of his mouth, thinking the guy was lucky.


    ¡°How did you find this place?¡± Yue Jiannan squatted down.


    Yue Xingxing, seeing so many people in the room, hid frightened behind Yue Qingqing.


    But it was the younger Yue Qingqing who replied nonchalantly, ¡°Grandma said it¡¯s time to eat.¡±


    ¡°Then how did you find your way here?¡±


    ¡°Asked people.¡±


    Yue Qingqing¡¯s mature behavior was greatly admired, even You Zhichao couldn¡¯t help but laugh.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you go back and eat first? Don¡¯t let your mom find this place.¡± He also had heard of Widow Lin¡¯s temperament and doubted he could handle her.


    Yue Jiannan was reluctant, ¡°I¡¯m on a good streak here...¡±


    Zhu Fei also helped persuade, ¡°Coming back in the afternoon will be the same; we¡¯ll save a spot for you.¡±


    They were afraid Lin Chunju would find the place as she might even flip the card table when she arrived.


    ¡°Ah, alright, you guys better save me a seat.¡±


    Only then did Yue Jiannan walk outside, his face clearly unhappy, which made You Zhichao feel even more reassured.


    This man was already addicted; he definitely wouldn¡¯t stop coming.


    Not long after Yue Jiannan left, someone knocked on the door again.


    Being disturbed repeatedly and without any special alerts from outside, You Zhichao didn¡¯t think much this time.


    He assumed it was just someone looking for him again.


    Annoyed, he opened the door...

 Chapter 113: 113 Dust Settles

    Chapter 113: Chapter 113 Dust Settles


    ¡°`


    The swarm of police left You Zhichao dumbfounded.


    Zhu Fei hadn¡¯t even had time to tell everyone to put things away before he was pressed down on the table.


    ¡°Don¡¯t move, someone has reported you for gathering to gamble, come with us to the station.¡±


    The news that several people from the village had been arrested for gambling quickly spread throughout Daye Village.


    Those whose families were not affected felt some relief, some were reflective.


    ...


    But those with family members who had been taken away sought connections by every means possible.


    However, the police also said that the participants would have their gambling funds confiscated and be detained for a few days until after they had received education and were released.


    Only the organizers of the gambling would be heavily punished.


    You Zhichao and Zhu Fei couldn¡¯t figure it out, they had clearly arranged for people to keep watch outside, but when it mattered most, those people turned out to be unreliable.


    After the police had recorded the confessions and secured the evidence, they put all these people together.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on with you guys?¡± You Zhichao looked at them with a grim face.


    Those who were supposed to have come in to give a warning all wore a bitter look.


    ¡°Bro You, I... my stomach suddenly hurt.¡±


    ¡°I went home to eat.¡±


    ¡°Someone I know greeted me from a distance, so I went over to chat for a bit.¡±


    Each person had this or that kind of excuse, coincidentally leaving You Zhichao and Zhu Fei speechless.


    You Zhichao could only grind his teeth and say, ¡°Don¡¯t let me find out who reported us, when I get out, I¡¯ll kill him!¡±


    They suspected many people, possibly those they had previously swindled, or even the envious villagers.


    In the end, Zhu Fei concluded, ¡°Maybe it¡¯s that kid, Mao Hui.¡±


    You Zhichao remembered Mao Hui¡¯s resentful gaze as he was carried away and nodded, ¡°Probably him, didn¡¯t expect he actually had it in him.¡±


    As for Yue Jiannan, they completely disregarded him.


    If Yue Jiannan didn¡¯t show up anymore, he would definitely be the first one they suspected.


    However, Yue Jiannan kept acting like he was hooked, and when it all added up, he actually won quite a bit of money from them.


    With a continuous winning streak, Yue Jiannan would have to be crazy to tip off the police.


    Zhu Fei sighed, ¡°That guy was called back home to eat at the last minute, really hit the jackpot...¡±


    Otherwise, he would surely be locked up like them right now.


    After some time, the participants were let go, the police also disclosed You Zhichao and Zhu Fei¡¯s cheating tactics in the card games.


    Their illegal earnings were fully returned, and the fields of Mao Hui and others were also given back to them.


    However, some of these people had a sudden realization, a sense of fear washing over them.


    Yet others still felt it was only bad luck that they¡¯d encountered cheating dealers, and they were still addicted to gambling, contemplating moving on to other villages.


    Mao Hui was one of these people, and his ending was not a good one.


    Two years later, You Zhichao was released from prison and wanted to find trouble with Mao Hui.


    Only to discover the guy had secretly sold all his family¡¯s assets and, taking the money, disappeared into some gambling scene, never to be heard from again.


    His elderly parents had to be kicked out of their home by creditors and start all over again.


    From then on, they acted as if they had no such son, only often weeping in secret.


    But all these were later stories; at least for now, Daye Village had returned to its former tranquility.


    Yue Jiannan was really scared this time and did not dare to go out except to visit the fish pond for several days in a row.


    Lin Chunju couldn¡¯t stand to see him like this.


    Sometimes, when people are young, it is inevitable that they make mistakes, but it¡¯s not worth becoming so timorous because of that.


    One morning after breakfast, she called Yue Jiannan aside specifically.


    ¡°Third one, what are you planning to do?¡±


    ¡°Go to the fish pond,¡± Yue Jiannan assured again and again, ¡°Mom, don¡¯t worry, I definitely won¡¯t go to those messed-up places anymore.¡±


    Lin Chunju nodded, ¡°Mom believes you, but the fish pond is going to freeze over soon, and the fish inside won¡¯t need you to feed them for now; you don¡¯t always have to go over there.¡±


    Yue Jiannan looked down at his toes and said nothing.


    He knew, of course, that the fish pond didn¡¯t need tending now, but other than that there was nowhere else he wanted to go.


    He didn¡¯t really like hanging out with his previous buddies anymore, always worried that they might betray him.


    Lin Chunju patted her son¡¯s back, ¡°What¡¯s the matter? I¡¯m not criticizing you. I stopped you because I have something I need you to do.¡±


    Yue Jiannan¡¯s eyes lit up, ¡°What is it?¡± He had been nearly bursting from staying in lately.


    ¡°`

 Chapter 114: 114: Entering the City Again

    Chapter 114: Chapter 114: Entering the City Again


    Seeing her son¡¯s expression, Lin Chunju pointed towards the house.


    ¡°Xiaofang isn¡¯t she taking on jobs in the city? She¡¯s made two deliveries, and the boss really appreciates her craftsmanship,¡± she said.


    Yue Jiannan, as if he had been praised himself, proudly said, ¡°That¡¯s because my sister is blessed by the heavens with her skills, even the city folks can¡¯t compare to her.¡±


    ¡°Right, but after all, she is a girl, and I worry every time she goes to the city alone, not to mention that traveling back and forth wastes time she could spend working.¡±


    Yue Jiannan understood, ¡°Mom, are you suggesting I go to the city to make deliveries?¡±


    Lin Chunju encouraged him, ¡°You are brave and have your own way of doing things, I think you are the best person for this task.¡±


    ...


    Praised by Lin Chunju like that, Yue Jiannan scratched his head and laughed, ¡°Mom, you really have a good eye for talent.¡±


    Once this child is complimented, his tail starts to wag to the sky.


    Lin Chunju found it amusing, ¡°Alright, that¡¯s settled then. Your big brother sometimes goes to the city as well, you can go together, and if possible, you can also take Qingqing with you.¡±


    Yue Jiannan, having received a new task, was instantly overjoyed.


    ¡°No problem, but what has big brother been doing in the city lately?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure, he probably has his plans.¡±


    Lin Chunju had a lot of confidence in Yue Jiandong, so she didn¡¯t even ask him for details.


    Ever since he was young, her eldest son had been sensible, never causing her any extra concerns.


    Yue Jiannan agreed without asking further. Others might wonder, since the elder brother goes to the city, why not let him take the goods? But Jiannan thought surely mom believes I¡¯m more reliable; she wouldn¡¯t even trust my brother with this.


    Yue Jiannan was the legendary optimist.


    Like the weeds between the fields, no matter how many times they are trampled on, just give them a little water and they spring back to life.


    And so, Yue Xiaofang was greeted with her brother¡¯s silent harassment.


    While she was working, Yue Jiannan would watch intently with his head propped up by his hand.


    With his eager look, he seemed to be complaining about how she wasn¡¯t finished yet.


    Yue Xiaofang felt enormous pressure as if a supervisor was standing right beside her.


    It was Yue Qingqing who couldn¡¯t stand it anymore and went up to him.


    ¡°Uncle, I want some honey,¡± she said.


    The honey was in a cupboard above the stove, which Yue Qingqing could not reach.


    Yue Jiannan reluctantly led her to the kitchen, ¡°You can only have a spoonful, don¡¯t eat too much, okay? I heard eating too much sugar can cause cavities.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± she replied.


    ¡°Come to think of it, I haven¡¯t had any for a long time either, I¡¯ll make a couple of bowls later.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯ll rot your teeth!¡±


    ¡°Kids¡¯ teeth, not adults¡¯.¡±


    Yue Qingqing felt helpless. Alright, consider yourself an adult then.


    Yue Xiaofang, watching their retreating figures, finally breathed a sigh of relief and sped up her work.


    Finally, after two days, Yue Xiaofang finished the new batch of goods, and Yue Jiannan was excited and thrilled.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to the city tomorrow!¡±


    Yue Jiandong put down his chopsticks, ¡°Good timing, I¡¯m going tomorrow as well. We can go together.¡±


    Yue Qingqing struggled to lift her head from the bowl.


    ¡°I¡¯m coming too!¡±


    Yue Jiandong thought for a moment, after all, it was two adults, plus Qingqing was sensible and never wandered off, it shouldn¡¯t be hard to take her along.


    ¡°Okay, you come too.¡±


    And so, there was one more excited person.


    In the early morning, Yue Qingqing went out to the courtyard to practice as she usually did, only returning to the house when she smelled the fragrance of food.


    Lin Chunju originally wanted to pack something like rolled pancakes for the three, but then she changed her mind.


    ¡°Everything will be cold by the time we get there, and it won¡¯t taste good. It¡¯s better to eat at a restaurant in the city and try something new.¡±


    Lin Chunju was very adaptable. When the family was poor, she could endure hardship, and now that the family was better off, she wouldn¡¯t let her family suffer.


    Yue Jiannan cheered instantly, as he had always wanted to try the restaurants in the city.


    Yue Qingqing licked her lips, full of anticipation as well.

 Chapter 115: 115: Four Seas Restaurant

    Chapter 115: Chapter 115: Four Seas Restaurant


    Although this wasn¡¯t his first time in the city, Yue Jiannan still felt like his eyes weren¡¯t enough to take everything in.


    ¡°Wow, big brother, look over there.¡± Yue Jiannan pointed at the enormous object not far away, his mouth agape.


    Yue Jiandong glanced in that direction, ¡°That¡¯s a Jiefang truck, not something you see often in the city, only one or two of the biggest factories have them.¡±


    Thick black exhaust fumes billowed from the rear of the truck, causing nearby bystanders to cover their noses, yet they still looked on with envy.


    Yue Jiannan clicked his tongue in admiration, ¡°This thing is way more impressive than a tractor.¡±


    In the village, wealthy families would go out of their way to buy a tractor for farming.


    ...


    Most of them were hand-held tractors, and only really rich families could afford those that ran on diesel.


    If a family had a tractor, it would attract the attention of neighbors for at least half a month.


    But in Yue Jiannan¡¯s eyes, compared to this huge truck, the tractor simply paled in comparison.


    Yue Jiandong chuckled, ¡°Our village doesn¡¯t even have a proper road, so this kind of truck couldn¡¯t make it in.¡±


    Yue Jiannan nodded thoughtfully, ¡°That¡¯s why I haven¡¯t seen one before. Brother, how come you know so much? I remember you haven¡¯t been to the city much before either.¡±


    Yue Jiandong slapped him on the head, ¡°Nonsense, I¡¯m your brother; isn¡¯t it normal for me to know more?¡±


    Yue Jiannan rubbed his head, not thinking too much about it, his gaze following the truck, ¡°So impressive. It would be amazing to sit in it just once.¡±


    He started to fantasize about climbing onto the truck, feeling the majesty of looking down on everything.


    Many others felt the same as Yue Jiannan. A lot of young people found it novel and craned their necks on tiptoes to get a better look.


    A vehicle is a man¡¯s little lover; this saying applies to every era.


    Some even noticed that a little boy was sitting in the passenger seat, prompting them to take a few extra glances.


    Yue Qingqing, however, had no interest whatsoever and eagerly eyed the various snack stalls at the street corners.


    With a loud bang,


    pure white popcorn burst from the machine, filling the street with its sweet and tempting scent.


    The truck drove off, and Yue Jiannan withdrew his gaze, taking Yue Qingqing by the hand to leave.


    But when he tugged, she didn¡¯t budge, as if her feet were nailed to the ground.


    ¡°Qingqing?¡± Yue Jiannan was puzzled.


    Yue Qingqing just looked up at him, sweet and adorable, then glanced again at the popcorn machine.


    Yue Jiannan resigned himself to handing her back to his big brother, and he took out some money from his pocket to buy some popcorn.


    Yue Qingqing¡¯s eyes curved into little crescents.


    ¡°Here.¡±


    Yue Jiannan handed a small bag of popcorn to Yue Qingqing, teasingly complaining, ¡°You little one, why are you such a glutton? If you¡¯re outside, you¡¯ll be called a food barrel.¡±


    Yue Qingqing tilted her head innocently, as if she couldn¡¯t be more guiltless if she tried.


    As if to say, I didn¡¯t even ask for it; you¡¯re the one who offered to buy it.


    Yue Jiandong was helpless, bending down to playfully scrape his daughter¡¯s nose bridge, ¡°You, little doll, are too cunning.¡±


    He casually picked off some crumbs from the corner of her mouth.


    The three of them crossed several streets and entered a clothing district.


    The owner of Orchid Pavilion had met Yue Jiannan before, so the process of handing over the goods was swift.


    Shi Yongshou even complimented him, ¡°Your sister¡¯s craftsmanship is really good. The scarf she made last time was very popular with the customer, and her friends have placed a few orders too.¡±


    Yue Jiannan took the materials for the next delivery and said a few flattering words.


    Yue Jiandong was surreptitiously taking in the shops around the street, noting important details in his mind.


    After they left the store, Yue Jiannan had a substantial amount of money on him¡ªYue Xiaofang¡¯s earnings.


    ¡°Brother, we need to be careful. New Year¡¯s is coming up, and there are more thieves around.¡±


    Yue Jiannan surveyed the crowd around him with a vigilant gaze.


    He even managed to shoot a few menacing glances at several men, causing them to glare back.


    Yue Jiandong couldn¡¯t help but gently pat his back, laughing, ¡°Relax a bit. It¡¯s getting late; let¡¯s go have dinner.¡±


    ¡°Sure, I saw a Sichuan restaurant at the entrance of the street we came in through. It looked pretty good.¡±


    Yue Jiandong waved his hand grandly, ¡°We¡¯re not going there. Today, we¡¯ll eat at the Four Seas Restaurant.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Yue Jiannan was stunned, ¡°Brother, what are you thinking? Is Four Seas Restaurant really a place we can go into?¡±

 Chapter 116: 116 Going Solo

    Chapter 116: Chapter 116 Going Solo


    No wonder Yue Jiannan was surprised.


    Four Seas Restaurant was one of the most famous long-established restaurants in the city, and several generations of chefs there had connections with the Imperial Chef family.


    It was said that the boss was an influential figure with extensive connections, and Four Seas Restaurant was just one of the projects under him.


    Therefore, even before the crackdown, not many people dared to cause trouble at Four Seas Restaurant.


    In this city, only a few people could host their wedding feasts at Four Seas Restaurant, and they had to wait in a long queue.


    A wealthy family from the village once attended a banquet at Four Seas Restaurant and bragged about it for a full three months afterward.


    ...


    Yue Jiannan even doubted whether his brother¡¯s mind had been corrupted by capitalism, ¡°Brother, we¡¯ve made some money, but we¡¯re not at the point where we can be so extravagant, are we?¡±


    Yue Jiandong couldn¡¯t help but laugh and cry, ¡°Nonsense, do you think I don¡¯t know that?¡±


    ¡°Then what is this about today?¡± Yue Jiannan¡¯s gaze shifted to the little one beside him.


    ¡°Even bringing Qingqing here to see the world seems a bit too much.¡±


    The innocent Yue Qingqing, ¡°???¡±


    Yue Jiandong had no choice but to explain, ¡°It¡¯s not as mysterious as you think. Four Seas Restaurant has three floors in total, with the top floor reserved for banquets, which we can¡¯t even think about. The middle floor has private rooms, which are also quite expensive.¡±


    ¡°But the ground floor is open to the public, the prices are just above average, but not so high that we can¡¯t afford it.¡±


    Only then did Yue Jiannan relax, but he still had doubts, ¡°But you also said the prices are above average, why don¡¯t we just find a random eatery and make do with a meal, why must we go to such a grand restaurant?¡±


    Yue Jiandong told the truth, ¡°I asked Wang Pengfei, and the best supplies on his side are all delivered to Four Seas Restaurant. They demand high quality here, but they also pay a high price, so I want to go and see for myself.¡±


    Yue Jiannan was startled, ¡°Brother... you¡¯re not thinking of going into business on your own, are you?¡±


    Although Yue Jiandong had not told his family about his decision to do business, he had not intended to keep it a secret either. Since it had come up, he might as well lay it all out.


    ¡°After all, Wang Pengfei is a middleman who makes a large profit from the difference in price. Our village isn¡¯t that far from the city, so there¡¯s no need to be exploited by someone in the middle.¡±


    Yue Jiannan didn¡¯t expect that his brother, who was usually quiet, would harbor such ambitions.


    However, having grown accustomed to the hard life of facing the loess and turning one¡¯s back to the sky in Daye Village, Yue Jiannan still worried, ¡°But what if we can¡¯t sell our goods? At least with Wang Pengfei, there¡¯s a guaranteed income, rain or shine.¡±


    Yue Jiandong shook his head, ¡°Wang Pengfei seems enthusiastic, but he intends to monopolize the supply. He¡¯s not very easy to deal with, and I¡¯m afraid he¡¯ll drive down our prices later.¡±


    Since the last time they had harvested fish from the pond, Wang Pengfei had been pestering Yue Jiandong, wanting to sign an agreement that would give him exclusive rights to sell the fish from the Yue Family¡¯s ponds.


    At first, Yue Jiandong had agreed, but when he saw a line in the contract stating that the price of fish each year should be estimated according to the market value by Wang Pengfei, he became concerned.


    If it were someone illiterate, they probably wouldn¡¯t care about such a detail, but not only could Yue Jiandong read, he was also very smart, and he immediately realized that this line was specifically designed to trap the Yue Family.


    The entire contract emphasized the need to guarantee the weight and quantity of the fish and required the Yue Family to assume all risks.


    But as for the price, it was said to be estimated based on market fluctuations, which in reality meant the buyer had the final say, didn¡¯t it?


    Yue Jiandong would never sign such an unfair treaty, and his opinion of Wang Pengfei had changed.


    The idea of starting his own business grew stronger.


    Going to Four Seas Restaurant this time was actually a part of Yue Jiandong¡¯s long-term plan.


    After hearing his brother¡¯s explanation, Yue Jiannan nodded and stopped fussing. He suddenly lifted Qingqing onto his shoulders.


    ¡°Alright, today we¡¯ll bask in our big brother¡¯s glory and go enjoy some good food.¡±


    Yue Qingqing clapped her hands in excitement, constantly swallowing saliva.


    In the midst of the brothers¡¯ analysis, she hadn¡¯t taken much to heart, remembering only one point.


    The food at Four Seas Restaurant... was really delicious!

 Chapter 117: 117 Tripped Over Flat Ground

    Chapter 117: Chapter 117 Tripped Over Flat Ground


    Four Seas Restaurant is nestled in the most luxurious district in the city center.


    The rare European architectural style makes it stand out uniquely along the entire street.


    At the entrance stands a milky white musical fountain, its water sparkling in the sunlight.


    Many children hesitate to leave the fountain¡¯s side, while nearby parents, feeling the weight of their wallets, grit their teeth and take their little treasures inside.


    The polite staff at the door, lined up in two rows and wearing white gloves and tailored suits, plaster on their professional smiles.


    Seeing such a grand setup, those who lack confidence simply stop at the door, unable to step forward.


    ...


    Jiannan¡¯s face was Full of hesitation. ¡°Brother, are you sure you brought enough money? Don¡¯t end up having us wash dishes to pay the bill.¡±


    Jiandong stroked his chin, ¡°Worst comes to worst, I¡¯ll just have to wash more dishes, so I can get out earlier.¡±


    Although it was clearly a joke, Jiannan got scared and stared mournfully at the restaurant¡¯s entrance for a long time before squeezing out a sentence.


    ¡°If worst comes to worst... We could ask those at the top floor hosting the wedding banquet if they need a flower boy, and we can offer Qingqing up.¡±


    Qingqing, being pretty, should fetch a higher price than both of them.


    Yue Qingqing was swallowing her saliva, enticed by the delicious smells wafting from inside. ¡°Do flower boys get to eat nice food?¡±


    The Yue brothers: ¡°...¡±


    They really have to keep an eye on this little food lover so she doesn¡¯t get lured away by a few tasty treats someday.


    The waiter, ever so courteous, ushered the three of them inside.


    There was none of the embarrassment of being thrown out due to their attire that Jiannan had imagined.


    Although the decor inside also followed a European style, screens thoughtfully placed between seats ensured ample privacy for guests.


    Jiannan cautiously seated himself on the lacquered chair.


    He rubbed his hands on his clothes several times before daring to open the gold-embossed menu.


    ¡°Brother, I feel like even if they were selling peanuts here, they¡¯d be priced like braised pork.¡±


    He had never dined in such a fancy place before and felt unsure about where to put his hands and feet.


    The waiter brought over a high chair, referred to as a baby chair, and placed Qingqing onto it.


    Yue Qingqing grinned sweetly at him, finding the chair to her liking as it allowed her to sit level with the table, making it easier to eat.


    The waiter was dazzled by her smile and later brought in a fruit plate, claiming it was a treat for the child.


    Jiannan was astonished.


    Fruit was a rarity back in their village; aside from the wild fruits they picked, families seldom indulged in buying them.


    His little niece¡¯s smile was indeed priceless.


    He encouraged Qingqing, ¡°Keep smiling, and who knows, maybe you can even get a plate of braised ribs out of it.¡±


    Yue¡¤Happiness-for-Hire¡¤Qingqing: ¡°...¡±


    Jiandong was absorbed in the menu, calculating how many ingredients they would need daily based on the recommended dishes and the flow of customers he had observed since their arrival.


    How much of the demand could be supplied by their own fishpond.


    Jiannan, on the other hand, focused solely on the prices at the back of the menu.


    One glance was enough to see that everything was expensive.


    Fortunately, it wasn¡¯t to the point where they couldn¡¯t afford it, although they might wince at the expense for several days after the meal.


    Qingqing was only interested in the pictures on the menu, thinking this and that looked tasty.


    She didn¡¯t bother with the text, after all, she couldn¡¯t understand it.


    She was completely illiterate in the characters of this era.


    As the three focused on the menu, each from a different perspective, the waiter stood by with a patient smile, showing no signs of impatience.


    After perusing the menu, Jiandong ordered three homestyle dishes and a soup.


    Despite the foreign decor, the restaurant still served authentic Chinese cuisine, though the prices certainly felt as though they included import taxes.


    While they were ordering, a truck pulled up outside the restaurant, the same one they had seen before.


    Because of a prior notification, the restaurant manager personally went out to welcome them.


    The little boy from the passenger seat carefully stepped down onto the stool the manager had brought over.


    The child had a fair complexion and, despite his young age, his good looks were evident.


    A man resembling a bodyguard stood in front of him, while the manager attended to him with caution.


    ¡°Young Master, the private room upstairs is all ready for you, and your favorite dishes have been prepared,¡± the manager said with a fawning attentiveness that exceeded that usually reserved for esteemed guests.


    After all, this was the sole heir to their boss¡ªJiang Jingze.


    Jingze hummed an acknowledgement, his expression serious as he headed inside. Despite his young age, he carried an air of nobility.


    However, just as he reached the door, there was a thud¡ªhe unexpectedly took a tumble on the flat ground.


    Strangely enough, everyone around him acted as if this was normal.


    They simply watched as the young master dusted off the dirt and climbed back to his feet.


    Once inside the restaurant, Jingze looked around but, contrary to his usual routine, he didn¡¯t head upstairs.


    ¡°I¡¯ll dine in the main hall today.¡±


    After all, that old fortune teller had said he would meet his benefactor here today.


    With a bit of luck, perhaps his streak of bad luck would also come to an end.

 Chapter 118: 118 The Old Sages Arrangement

    Chapter 118: Chapter 118 The Old Sage¡¯s Arrangement


    Hearing Jiang Jingze¡¯s order, the manager didn¡¯t hesitate for a second.


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll rearrange it for you right now.¡±


    As the only son of the Jiang Family, Jiang Jingze¡¯s status was basically unquestionable.


    Plus, he¡¯d been very opinionated since he was Little Bean¡¯s age, and even his old man often had no way of dealing with him.


    Jiang Jingze was led to a quiet corner on the first floor, not because he liked solitude but rather...


    Plates clattered to the floor all of a sudden, and Jiang Jingze discovered, with a blank expression, that his cufflinks had snagged the tablecloth.


    ...


    Accidentally pulling on it, everything atop the table had crashed to the ground.


    Fortunately, not many people noticed in this corner, so the manager hurried over with a waiter to squat down and tidy up the debris on the floor.


    ¡°Young master, are you okay?¡±


    Jiang Jingze touched his nose, ¡°I¡¯m fine...¡±


    He was used to it by now.


    People around him probably were used to it too.


    Jiang Jingze had always suspected that in his past life he must have been a ruthless bandit, for his bad luck began from the moment he was born.


    He was the type whose teeth would get stuck even when drinking water, who could trip and fall into a ditch just by walking on the road.


    The fact that he¡¯d lived to this age was all thanks to being born into a good life.


    His family was wealthy, his parents were harmonious, and he was an only child.


    Some relatives envied him, whispering behind his back that Jiang Jingze was a jinx, yet ironically his dad¡¯s business only grew bigger and everyone in the family was healthy.


    Except... he himself was incredibly unlucky.


    Because his son was truly extraordinary, Jiang Chengren would worship at temples and kneel before Buddhas he saw.


    He didn¡¯t know how much incense money had been scattered away, having had several thousands¡¯ worth of gold statues made for the deities of the Nine Heavens.


    Yet still, Jiang Jingze remained unlucky wherever he went, a lifelong jinx.


    This nearly pushed Jiang Chengren to become a staunch materialist.


    From then on, he turned a blind eye to the monks who came to beg and the Taoist priests who asked for donation money, reporting them to the authorities as scammers whenever encountered.


    However, some old man found his way to Jiang Chengren not long ago.


    Somehow, this man rekindled Jiang Chengren¡¯s belief and he even offered a hefty sum to keep the old man around.


    But that old charlatan said he had no power to change fortunes, leaving behind only a few key pieces of information before drifting off.


    Such selfless behavior deeply moved Jiang Chengren, and he treated the old man¡¯s few words as a lifeline, insisting that Jiang Jingze strictly follow them.


    The first was that he should eat lunch today on the first floor of their own restaurant.


    To avoid any mishaps on the way, Jiang Jingze deliberately rode in the family factory¡¯s truck, arriving at the Four Seas Restaurant with trepidation but, thankfully, safely.


    Of course, Jiang Jingze didn¡¯t believe a word from that old fanatic, who looked crazy and unkempt with a big beard, far less convincing than the scammers who had sought handouts from his family in the past.


    He looked all around, waiting for the stooge the old charlatan had arranged.


    But after a long wait, all he got was dish after dish being served.


    Never mind, he might as well eat.


    Jiang Jingze, who had always lived by the principle of one less meal at a time, couldn¡¯t be bothered to think too much about it.


    On the other side, the Yue Family thoroughly enjoyed their meal; the Four Seas Restaurant lived up to its reputation, with even the homestyle dishes being mouth-wateringly delicious, making one want to swallow their tongue.


    Yue Jiannan wiped his mouth, ¡°I thought mom¡¯s cooking was the best, but I didn¡¯t expect there to be someone better out there. This big restaurant really lives up to its name.¡±


    Yue Jiandong casually replied while thinking about how to connect with the management of the restaurant later.


    But Yue Qingqing suddenly frowned, ¡°Dad...¡±


    Yue Jiandong quickly looked at his daughter, ¡°Baby, what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°I want to... I want to...¡± Yue Qingqing¡¯s face turned red, struggling to utter the words ¡°go to the bathroom.¡±


    Yue Jiandong understood right away, lifting his daughter from the high chair.


    ¡°Jiannan, I¡¯m taking Qingqing to the restroom, you keep eating.¡±


    Yue Jiannan, holding his chopsticks, felt there was something odd about that sentence...

 Chapter 119: 119: First Encounter

    Chapter 119: Chapter 119: First Encounter


    Yue Jiandong, following the waiter¡¯s directions, led his daughter through the hall to the washroom.


    It must be said that the restrooms in the Four Seas Restaurant were decorated with utmost elegance, making even a visit to the toilet a pleasant experience.


    However, Yue Qingqing didn¡¯t feel any pleasure, as she suddenly experienced a stomachache...


    Despite practicing daily, she hadn¡¯t reached the state of Fasting, so eating grains sometimes led to physical reactions.


    ¡°Dad, you can go back first, I know the way.¡±


    Yue Qingqing felt uneasy about making Yue Jiandong wait too long, but there was no way he would be at ease.


    ...


    ¡°No worries, Dad will wait right by the door.¡±


    Only then did Yue Qingqing enter with her face flushed red.


    Yue Jiandong waited by the door, his eyes scanning the restaurant.


    Everything about the Four Seas Restaurant, from the decor to the quality of food, was first-rate. If they could supply their fish here...


    It was at that moment he spotted a lean man walking by, the manager previously mentioned by the waiter.


    The man, noticing Yue Jiandong¡¯s persistent gaze, seemed puzzled.


    As the manager of a large restaurant, Zheng Tianbo naturally had the basic hospitality skills and soon approached Yue Jiandong.


    ¡°Hello sir, I¡¯m the manager of this restaurant. Is there something troubling you, or do you have any suggestions for us?¡±


    Yue Jiandong¡¯s Adam¡¯s apple moved, but in an instant, he made up his mind.


    ¡°Hello, manager, my name is Yue Jiandong.¡±


    ¡°Alright, Mr. Yue, you were saying?¡±


    Yue Jiandong quickly organized his thoughts and shared his ideas with Zheng Tianbo.


    Zheng Tianbo remembered the batch of fish, since it was not easy to get a sufficient quantity of good-quality fish from the surrounding villages.


    ¡°You mean you want to partner directly with us?¡± Zheng Tianbo was somewhat tempted.


    His partnership with Wang Pengfei wasn¡¯t very pleasant, either.


    The Four Seas Restaurant had high standards for quality, but Wang Pengfei occasionally engaged in subpar substitutions and last-minute price hikes, which greatly dissatisfied Zheng Tianbo.


    However, there were few in the surrounding villages who had the courage to do business, and even fewer who could completely replace Wang Pengfei.


    This man standing before him named Yue Jiandong seemed decent and well-educated, which somewhat moved Zheng Tianbo.


    ¡°Okay, please come up with me to discuss this in detail.¡±


    Faced with this great opportunity, Yue Jiandong shook his head, ¡°Sorry, my daughter is still inside, I need to wait for her to come out.¡±


    Zheng Tianbo glanced at the Seagull watch on his wrist, ¡°But I have something to attend to later, I only have time now.¡±


    However, he could understand Yue Jiandong¡¯s parental concerns and, to some extent, he admired Yue Jiandong even more for it.


    If a person could leave their child behind to follow him so hastily, displaying such a lack of responsibility, Zheng Tianbo wouldn¡¯t dare to cooperate with them.


    After a moment¡¯s thought, Zheng Tianbo called an idle waitress over.


    ¡°Mr. Yue, tell me your table number and what your daughter looks like, and I¡¯ll have Xiao Zhang escort her over later. Is that okay with you?¡±


    Yue Jiandong, knowing Yue Qingqing¡¯s intelligence and now having this additional assurance, felt relieved.


    ¡°No problem, my daughter¡¯s name is Yue Qingqing, and she¡¯s very beautiful with big eyes...¡±


    Yue Jiandong described her to the waitress until she repeatedly assured him, and only then did he finally follow Zheng Tianbo upstairs to discuss further.


    When Yue Qingqing came out of the washroom, she found her father really was gone, replaced by a young server.


    The server¡¯s eyes turned to hearts upon seeing her.


    ¡°You must be Mr. Yue¡¯s daughter, right?¡±


    While Yue Jiandong boasted of his daughter¡¯s beauty, she inwardly thought, which parent doesn¡¯t find their child beautiful? They should have mentioned more distinctive features.


    But now, seeing her in person, she was indeed overly, excessively beautiful.


    Beauty was certainly this child¡¯s most defining feature!


    ¡°Ah, yes,¡± Yue Qingqing was startled for a moment but noticed the server harbored no malice.


    ¡°Your father has gone upstairs with our manager. Would you like to go back to your seat with Auntie and eat something?¡±


    The server crouched down, eyeing Yue Qingqing¡¯s small face, with a real urge to pinch it.


    Yue Qingqing seemed to catch the server¡¯s intent, taking a wary step back before she obediently nodded, ¡°Thank you, Auntie.¡±


    The server was smitten to the core by this adorable little dumpling.


    Just as she reached out to hold the little girl¡¯s hand, a loud noise came from behind them.


    Both turned around.


    Not far from the washroom, a boy suddenly fell over, and for some unknown reason, he tumbled a couple of times, rolling right up to Yue Qingqing¡¯s feet.

 Chapter 120: 120: An Inexplicable Sense of Familiarity

    Chapter 120: Chapter 120: An Inexplicable Sense of Familiarity


    Yue Qingqing¡¯s first reaction was surprise, wondering how on such flat ground he had managed to fall so disastrously.


    A second later, it turned into deep shock.


    The aura from his body was definitely the most terrible she had ever seen; could this be the legendary ¡°colorful black¡±?


    To have survived until now, he must be very strong!


    Jiang Jingze finally managed to stop rolling and was preparing to get up as usual.


    The moment he looked up, he locked eyes with Yue Qingqing¡¯s shocked face.


    ...


    The two stared at each other, and time seemed to freeze for a second.


    Compassion in Yue Qingqing¡¯s eyes grew stronger. She hadn¡¯t expected the boy to be so handsome.


    The thought of such a handsome boy being so unlucky made her feel sorry for him.


    Yet Jiang Jingze felt a buzz in his head, as if it had been fiercely smashed by a hammer.


    It wasn¡¯t painful, but it left him feeling dazed.


    When this girl with clear eyes looked at him, Jiang Jingze felt an inexplicable sense of familiarity.


    But he didn¡¯t know where this familiarity came from and could only attribute it to...


    ...his falling a bit too hard this time.


    Jiang Jingze stood up and smoothed out his clothes.


    He wanted to leave as if nothing had happened, yet somewhat curiously couldn¡¯t bear to leave and eventually he stood in front of a waiter.


    ¡°Are you helping her find her family?¡±


    He appeared very serious, much like a little adult.


    The waiter, who definitely recognized the boss¡¯s son, hurriedly answered, ¡°I was just about to take the young lady back to her seat.¡±


    Jiang Jingze casually hummed, ¡°Go ahead with your work, I¡¯ll take her there.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± The waiter thought he misheard and was about to ask again when Jiang Jingze waved his hand.


    ¡°I see the restaurant is quite busy. You go do your tasks.¡±


    Although this kid was much younger than his own nephew, the waiter still obediently followed the order.


    ¡°Okay, okay.¡± Could such a small child really be so smitten by a pretty little girl that he couldn¡¯t move on?


    The waiter looked back three times with each step, marveling at how incredible kids are these days.


    ¡°Which table are you at?¡± Jiang Jingze walked confidently to Yue Qingqing¡¯s side and naturally took her hand.


    Soft and small.


    He treated Yue Qingqing like a little sister, but little did he know, she actually thought of him as just a child.


    Having her hand held didn¡¯t feel odd to her; she naturally followed along.


    ¡°Table three.¡±


    Jiang Jingze held the little girl¡¯s hand and couldn¡¯t resist gently squeezing it, his ears and neck immediately flushing red.


    Yue Qingqing didn¡¯t notice: instead, she was observing the aura around him, increasingly feeling horrified.


    His level of misfortune was far beyond her imagination.


    In her two lifetimes, this was the first time she had encountered such a case.


    Even those unlucky ones who had been afflicted by a Curse Technique before seemed better than his aura.


    Jiang Jingze walked very slowly, and of course, it was definitely not because of his short legs.


    He mainly worried about falling in front of the little girl again.


    Scaring her would not be good.


    Unfortunately, no matter how slowly he walked, they eventually reached their destination.


    Yue Jiannan was shocked to see a handsome young boy bringing his niece back.


    ¡°Qingqing, you... Where¡¯s... your uncle?¡±


    ¡°Dad went to speak with the manager,¡± Yue Qingqing explained.


    ¡°Then who is he? Where are his family?¡± Yue Jiannan scrutinized Jiang Jingze, noting from the boy¡¯s dress that he clearly came from a wealthy family.


    Could it be that seeing how pretty Qingqing was, he followed her and got separated from his family?


    It seemed only then did Yue Qingqing remember, tilting her head as she looked towards Jiang Jingze, ¡°Oh right, who are you?¡±


    Jiang Jingze cleared his throat, ¡°I...¡±

 Chapter 121: 121: Death Trial

    Chapter 121: Chapter 121: Death Trial


    At that moment, the manager hurried over.


    ¡°Young master, I finally found you.¡±


    Though the waitress had been sent away by Jiang Jingze, she couldn¡¯t really just leave things be; she went to find the manager.


    The manager didn¡¯t have time to talk to Yue Jiandong in detail and quickly went downstairs.


    He just happened to witness the young master bringing the girl to her seat.


    With just a glance, his mood became very complex.


    ...


    The young master is still so young, yet... he¡¯s learned to judge by appearances?


    What he should be worried about is the young girl, not their obviously overly precocious young master.


    Jiang Jingze showed a kind of displeasure at being interrupted and turned to look at Yue Qingqing.


    ¡°My name is Jiang Jingze.¡±


    Yue Qingqing blinked and only after a long while realized what the other party meant.


    ¡°Oh, my name is Yue Qingqing.¡±


    The adults on both sides looked at the two children with conflicted gazes.


    Yue Jiandong, following behind the manager, felt especially conflicted.


    He had only left for a moment, and there was already a little boy approaching his treasure?


    Qingqing was only so little, and he could already imagine the swarm of admirers she might face in the future.


    Suddenly, a sense of powerless rage at the thought of his cabbage being dug up by some pig arose within him.


    The atmosphere was oddly eerie and awkward.


    It was the manager who smoothed things over.


    ¡°Young master, would you like us to clear your meal, or...¡±


    Jiang Jingze indifferently said, ¡°Clear it, I¡¯m full.¡±


    Looking at the expressions of the people around him, he knew he had no reason to stay any longer.


    He felt oddly depressed, yet he couldn¡¯t show the slightest bit on his face.


    ¡°I¡¯ve brought you here, so I¡¯ll be leaving now.¡±


    Young Jiang Jingze turned to leave, his steps slow and hesitant as if waiting for a sign to stay.


    Yue Qingqing, however, simply let out a naive ¡°Oh¡± and watched him go.


    The air around him was indeed very special.


    Among the crowd, he stood out sharply like dark clouds, now gathering more densely.


    Yue Jiandong¡¯s heart ached for no reason. This boy indeed looked very handsome, much more so than the village kids, but his daughter didn¡¯t need to look at him so intently, right?


    Just then, with a thud, Jiang Jingze fell down again.


    Yue Qingqing showed an expected expression of sympathy on her face, and Yue Jiandong was startled and reached out to help.


    But he noticed that Zheng Tianbo, who was nearest, hadn¡¯t even bent his waist.


    Yue Jiandong was full of question marks.


    Isn¡¯t this your young master? Are people these days so proud that they refuse to ¡°bow for five bushels of rice¡±?


    And even with his commanding presence, at the core, he¡¯s just a little boy, right?


    Under the critical gaze of the Yue brothers, the manager could only sheepishly explain, ¡°My young master isn¡¯t really comfortable with other people touching him.¡±


    Yue Jiannan: ¡°...¡± He clearly saw that kid holding Qingqing¡¯s hand earlier.


    Jiang Jingze indeed got up by himself, with a numbness and an habitualness that shouldn¡¯t be there at his age.


    Yue Jiandong¡¯s expression immediately turned severe. This child¡¯s movements were too practiced; he couldn¡¯t be mistreated often, could he?


    Before the waves of sympathy could surge in his heart, Jiang Jingze had already walked away under the respectful gaze of the manager.


    Embarrassed, Zheng Tianbo said to Yue Jiandong, ¡°Mr. Yue, I need to take care of our young master. Our business discussion will have to wait until next time.¡±


    Yue Jiandong nodded understandingly, and they set another time.


    Yue Jiannan suddenly felt admiration; in just the time it took for a meal, his older brother had really made a connection with the manager.


    The manager even gave them a very nice discount before leaving, bringing Yue Jiannan¡¯s satisfaction with the meal to its peak.


    After negotiating for a while, Yue Jiandong called the waitress over to pay the bill.


    The group was ready to leave.


    However, as they reached the entrance, they found that the little boy from earlier was also there.


    Yue Jiannan¡¯s mouth twitched. He couldn¡¯t be waiting for their niece on purpose, could he?


    Although Jiang Jingze was young, Yue Jiandong, as a father, looked at him with an unfriendly gaze.


    Jiang Jingze, however, ignored everyone else and only looked at Yue Qingqing.


    He didn¡¯t know why, but he just wanted to make a special trip to say goodbye.


    Yue Qingqing stared at him, and her expression suddenly changed.


    In just over ten minutes, the air about him changed into a murderous aura, intense enough to be frightening.


    Jiang Jingze might soon face a deadly calamity.

 Chapter 122: 122 Jiang Chengrens Panic

    Chapter 122: Chapter 122 Jiang Chengren¡¯s Panic


    Jiang Jingze stared at Yue Qingqing with a troubled look.


    She was clearly younger than himself, yet where did this eerie sense of familiarity come from?


    Could I have met this little sister before?


    Yue Qingqing also furrowed her brows, unsure of what to do.


    She surely couldn¡¯t tell him directly that he was on the brink of death.


    Although he was just a kid, there were always adults around him, and if anything was discovered, she would be the one in trouble.


    ...


    But to watch someone march towards their death without doing anything was something Yue Qingqing couldn¡¯t bear.


    The two children stared each other down, their looks drawing the attention of many people, with several adults looking over and murmuring in amazement.


    Yue Jiandong, however, felt extremely uncomfortable and hurriedly took his daughter¡¯s hand and bid the manager farewell.


    Jiang Jingze silently nodded at Yue Qingqing as a way of saying goodbye.


    Yue Qingqing turned back every three steps, causing Yue Jiannan to tease her involuntarily.


    ¡°Qingqing, stop looking, or your eyeballs will fall out.¡±


    Jiang Jingze withdrew his gaze as the driver rushed over, ¡°Young Master, are we going home now?¡±


    Jiang Jingze hummed an affirmation, preparing to climb onto the truck.


    The fortune-teller¡¯s prophecy hadn¡¯t come true at all, it seemed the other party was indeed a fraud.


    One without professional ethics at that, not even arranging a shill.


    Just as he stood on the chair ready to climb onto the vehicle, Yue Qingqing finally made up her mind and broke free from her father¡¯s grasp.


    Her little legs scurried towards him.


    Jiang Jingze halted his actions, momentarily pleased.


    ¡°You... don¡¯t go up there,¡± Yue Qingqing pointed at the imposing vehicle.


    Jiang Jingze was puzzled, ¡°Why not?¡±


    Yue Qingqing tried to act clueless, ¡°It¡¯s too high, dangerous.¡±


    The childish words amused the observers, Zheng Tianbo found the girl quite entertaining.


    Not many Jiefang trucks were available throughout the country, only his boss had the clout to buy one.


    What danger? This was clearly a symbol of status and power.


    Jiang Jingze shook his head, ¡°It¡¯s not dangerous, do you want to try?¡±


    Yue Qingqing shook her head like a rattle-drum, having the chance to live again, she didn¡¯t want to seek her own demise.


    Yue Jiandong finally snapped to his senses and quickly came over to take his daughter¡¯s hand, ¡°Qingqing!¡±


    This girl was just too out of character today.


    Yue Qingqing was dragged away by her father, but she didn¡¯t forget to turn back and warn Jiang Jingze.


    ¡°Don¡¯t go up, okay?¡±


    Jiang Jingze watched as the little girl disappeared from sight, his lips curving up involuntarily.


    ¡°Young Master?¡± the driver asked, bewildered by Jiang Jingze¡¯s reaction.


    ¡°You go back first,¡± Jiang Jingze waved his hand, signaling the driver to take the car back first.


    The manager became anxious, ¡°That¡¯s not a good idea.¡±


    He was well aware of the young master¡¯s unusual condition and had thus been very careful in every aspect.


    Now that the young master wasn¡¯t planning on going home and wanted to stay in the restaurant, whose responsibility would it be if something happened mid-way?


    He could only suggest subtly, ¡°The boss will surely be worried.¡±


    Jiang Chengren was well-known for his deep love for his son, he would be anxious if he didn¡¯t see Jiang Jingze for half a day.


    But he could understand, as anyone with such an unfortunate son would hardly have peace of mind.


    Having made up his mind, Jiang Jingze turned and walked back into the restaurant.


    ¡°You call him and tell him I¡¯m waiting for someone.¡±


    Perhaps the person the old fortune-teller mentioned might still show up?


    Four Seas Restaurant, being the highest-end establishment in town, had installed an automatic telephone from the very beginning.


    Apart from facilitating reservations for valued customers, its primary use was to report on the young master¡¯s whereabouts.


    Zheng Tianbo, resigned, went to make the call unwillingly.


    However, that afternoon, Jiang Chengren unexpectedly rushed to the restaurant in person.


    He looked utterly shaken as he arrived at the entrance, ¡°Where is Jingze? Where is my son?¡±


    Zheng Tianbo had never seen his boss like this, and was stunned into a stammer, ¡°He¡¯s... upstairs.¡±


    Jiang Chengren breathed a sigh of relief and bolted for the upstairs.


    Zheng Tianbo watched his retreating figure, though it was nearly winter, the boss¡¯s back was drenched in sweat.

 Chapter 123: 123 Someone Comes to Visit

    Chapter 123: Chapter 123 Someone Comes to Visit


    Jiang Chengren finally found his son in the office and quickly dashed over in long strides.


    ¡°Jingze, you¡¯re alright!¡± He reached out to embrace his son but quickly withdrew his hand.


    He was mainly worried about using too much force and accidentally fracturing Jiang Jingze¡¯s bones.


    Given his son¡¯s luck, such a low-probability event was not impossible.


    Jiang Jingze looked at his dad, baffled, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°I just received a message that our car flipped over, right onto the side you usually sit on.¡±


    ...


    When the driver had called him from a public phone booth earlier, it had terrified Jiang Chengren out of his wits, and he had almost forgotten about the call from the restaurant manager before that.


    He didn¡¯t know if it was a tire or something that the car had hit on the road, but it just flipped inexplicably.


    Since the car flipped towards the passenger side, the driver wasn¡¯t hurt, but if Jiang Jingze had been in the car, he definitely wouldn¡¯t have survived.


    Jiang Jingze couldn¡¯t help but swallow his saliva, finally showing some fear.


    After all, no matter how mature he seemed, he was still just a child.


    ¡°I... I¡¯m really unlucky,¡± he said.


    Jiang Chengren spat a few times, ¡°Don¡¯t talk nonsense, this isn¡¯t bad luck, it¡¯s good fortune. Tell me, how did you suddenly change your mind?¡±


    Jiang Jingze thought for a moment and then told his father what had happened.


    Jiang Chengren said emotionally, ¡°It seems the master was right; if not for him, you might have already been in trouble.¡±


    Jiang Jingze wanted to object, but he didn¡¯t know what to say.


    He would rather believe it was all a coincidence than admit that the crazy old holy man was a hermit with great wisdom.


    ¡°But you, kid, usually don¡¯t care about anyone; why are you so mindful of a little girl?¡±


    Seeing his son was not in danger, Jiang Chengren indulged in a bit of human gossip.


    ¡°We are now in the New China, which promotes free love; don¡¯t even think about arranging a child marriage or anything.¡±


    Jiang Jingze gave his unreliable old dad a cold look, not sure what he was rambling about.


    He was still just a child, after all.


    He just thought the little girl he met looked strangely familiar, that¡¯s all.


    Getting no response from his son, Jiang Chengren chuckled to himself and then spoke seriously.


    ¡°Regardless, since they¡¯ve shown kindness to our family, I heard their family is preparing to collaborate with our restaurant, right? It¡¯s a good opportunity to send some gifts through the manager, share some profits, and repay them.¡±


    Jiang Chengren was after all a businessman who didn¡¯t like owing favors to others, and he made a quick decision.


    Meanwhile, the Yue brothers took Yue Qingqing back to Daye Village.


    After Yue Jiannan handed over the goods and money to Yue Xiaofang, he vividly described to the family what had happened that day.


    The focus was on the few unspeakable interactions between the little child and their Qingqing.


    This earned Yue Jiannan a smack on the head from Yue Jiandong.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you have a filter on your mouth? How old is our Qingqing? What are you talking about?¡±


    Yue Jiannan stuck out his tongue from the smack but continued making faces.


    Lin Chunju, however, caught the gist from his jumbled description, ¡°Big brother, are you planning to do business afterward?¡±


    When the conversation turned serious, Yue Jiandong became solemn and nodded.


    ¡°Mom, I also want to give it a try. The country is talking about reform and opening up, and I think we should find ways to live better days,¡± he said.


    Lin Chunju pondered, ¡°You have to think it through, no one from the Yue family has ever been in business before.¡±


    In this era, being a businessman was not a glorious profession.


    Yue Jiandong was undaunted, ¡°I¡¯ve thought about this for a long time, there are many people in the city doing business, our family can give it a try too.¡±


    Lin Chunju just smiled, ¡°Alright, since you¡¯ve made up your mind, go ahead. If it doesn¡¯t work out, we can always go back to farming.¡±


    With his mother¡¯s approval, Yue Jiandong finally felt a weight lift from his chest.


    Days later, just as Yue Jiandong was planning another trip to the city to meet the manager of Four Seas Restaurant, suddenly loud noises came from the courtyard outside.


    ¡°Is anyone from the Yue family here? Come out quickly, someone is looking for you!¡±


    ¡°Someone specifically came from the city to find you!¡±

 Chapter 124: 124 Definitely Committed a Crime

    Chapter 124: Chapter 124 Definitely Committed a Crime


    Someone came looking from the city?


    Yue Jiandong frowned, unable to discern the situation.


    He only heard the noise outside growing louder and closer to his own home.


    He hesitated, then walked to the door and opened the gate of the outer courtyard.


    There stood Zheng Tianbo, travel-worn, his suit stained with many streaks of grey and white from dust, looking more disheveled than when they first met.


    Upon seeing Yue Jiandong, he couldn¡¯t help but complain, ¡°You¡¯ve given me quite a hunt.¡±


    ...


    Zheng Tianbo¡¯s face bore a wry smile; his boss had ordered him to cooperate with Yue Jiandong as soon as possible and, incidentally, deliver a gift to the Yue Family.


    But he had been waiting, to no avail, for days on end.


    Fearing accusations of incompetence, Zheng Tianbo had no choice but to find a way on his own.


    Fortunately, Yue Jiandong had mentioned they were from Daye Village, at least giving Zheng Tianbo a direction to follow.


    It had not been easy for him to bring people here; having arrived in the village and made inquiries, he learned that the Yue Family was in fact famously impoverished, and only this year had their circumstances somewhat improved.


    With idle time on the journey, the locals, noticing his attire, were eager to chat, and Zheng Tianbo indulged them in conversation.


    According to them, the Yue Family was quite sinister; anyone who crossed them seemed to end up unlucky.


    The family¡¯s married daughter had only recently been sent back home, and it was rumored that she had even caused her former father-in-law to eat a bullet.


    Another person listening might well have formed a negative opinion of the Yue Family.


    But Yue Jiandong¡¯s daughter was credited with saving the life of his own young master, and Zheng Tianbo also had a favorable impression of Yue Jiandong; just a taste was enough to appreciate the flavor.


    It seemed the Yue Family¡¯s sudden rise to wealth had induced envy in many villagers.


    Zheng Tianbo finally arrived at the Yue Family¡¯s doorstep and had just steadied himself when he heard people around snickering and gossiping.


    ¡°Could they have offended someone to have someone come all the way here looking for them?¡±


    ¡°I told you, the Yue Family has been eating meat every meal lately. Even if they made a fortune selling fish, it wouldn¡¯t justify such waste. They must have done something wrong.¡±


    ¡°Tsk, tsk, I keep seeing the Yue Family running to the city lately; couldn¡¯t be that they¡¯re heading to the city to...¡± The speaker brought his forefinger and middle finger together in a pocket-picking gesture.


    The Yue Family members¡¯ faces suddenly darkened. Ever since their home conditions had improved, the village had not lacked those speaking ill of them with sarcastic tones.


    Had it now gotten so brazen that they were spreading rumors right in front of them?


    Amid these murmurs, Zheng Tianbo straightened his clothes and was all smiles as he shook Yue Jiandong¡¯s hand.


    Yue Jiandong: ¡°?¡±


    Zheng Tianbo: ¡°Mr. Yue, remember the cooperation we agreed on earlier? But you went quiet afterward, forcing me to come looking for you.¡±


    His half-serious complaint immediately silenced the onlookers.


    Yue Jiandong, however, was completely bewildered.


    The man before him was the manager of the Four Seas Restaurant. Yue Jiandong was the one in need, so it hardly seemed a trifle that would have brought the manager to his door.


    Fortunately, he quickly realized that Zheng Tianbo was there to clear the Yue Family¡¯s name.


    Yue Jiandong promptly shook Zheng Tianbo¡¯s hand as if they were old friends, patting him affectionately on the shoulder, ¡°Manager Zheng, how did you find my place? Let¡¯s go inside and talk in detail.¡±


    ¡°Right on!¡± Zheng Tianbo instructed his followers, ¡°Bring in the gifts for Mr. Yue.¡±


    The young men were quick-witted, catching the manager¡¯s drift, and deliberately opened the parcels in front of everyone present.


    The onlooking villagers, who had initially thought that this strange visitor couldn¡¯t be anything but a shill for the Yue Family, were instantly wide-eyed upon seeing the contents of the parcels.


    Nutritional supplements whose packaging alone spoke of luxury, several sleek and glossy fox fur neck warmers, and several cans of milk powder that no one in the village ever dared to buy.


    There were also various candies and pastries for children, sporting foreign letters on the bags that were unfamiliar to the villagers.


    But perhaps most eye-catching of all was an exquisite red envelope, unsealed, through which the villagers could see a thick stack of the significant colors of large banknotes.


    All... all of this was for the Yue Family?

 Chapter 125: 125: Discussing Cooperation

    Chapter 125: Chapter 125: Discussing Cooperation


    Yue Jiandong had just entered the house with Zheng Tianbo when the onlookers had not yet reacted.


    They stared intently at those things.


    Having shown off enough, the people Zheng Tianbo brought began to pack up and prepare to head inside.


    A bold villager stepped forward and grabbed one of them, ¡°Um, may I ask what you are looking for the Yue Family for?¡±


    Why would they bring such valuable things?


    These people didn¡¯t know the inside story, only repeating Zheng Tianbo¡¯s explanation.


    ...


    ¡°It¡¯s our manager looking to cooperate with the Yue Family.¡±


    ¡°Manager?¡± The villagers chewed over this slightly unfamiliar term, feeling it sounded high-end, ¡°What manager?¡±


    ¡°The manager of Four Seas Restaurant, alright, stop pulling on me, I need to go inside.¡±


    The speaker extricated his sleeve in a few swift tugs and followed the others inside.


    The people outside were stunned, looking incredulously at each other as if to confirm what they had just heard.


    ¡°Four Seas Restaurant? The Yue Family is actually going to cooperate with Four Seas Restaurant?¡±


    ¡°No way, how could that be possible...¡±


    The reputation of the Four Seas Restaurant was known even to the people of Daye Village.


    Yet the Yue Family, known as a poor household in the village, how could they be related to the Four Seas Restaurant?


    They even brought so many gifts...


    The faces of those who had deliberately disparaged the Yue Family in front of Zheng Tianbo turned gloomy, wishing they could slap themselves hard.


    If only they had known the Yue Family had such good fortune, why would they have spoken ill of them and not tried to curry favor instead?


    The people outside were full of regret, but inside the house, Yue Jiandong was very clear-headed.


    ¡°Manager Zheng, what exactly are you here for?¡±


    He didn¡¯t believe the other party had really come to discuss a partnership.


    The fish from the Yue Family was good, but not so good that someone would make a special trip for it.


    Zheng Tianbo smiled broadly, ¡°Mr. Yue, don¡¯t be so tense, I definitely have good news. By the way, is your daughter here?¡±


    Yue Jiandong immediately became alert, and his thoughts wandered off track when he put two and two together.


    ¡°Is it your young master who has taken a liking to Qingqing? You better leave quickly. We are in a new society now; if you dare mess around, I will call the police.¡±


    ¡°No, no, that¡¯s not what I meant.¡± Zheng Tianbo quickly grabbed Yue Jiandong, looking somewhat amused and distressed, ¡°I¡¯m here to thank your child on behalf of my boss for saving his life.¡±


    Yue Jiandong listened skeptically as the other party recounted the whole story, and his expression gradually relaxed.


    He felt somewhat embarrassed...


    It seemed his thoughts had been somewhat untoward.


    Indeed, the kids were only so young, how could he think in that direction.


    Yue Jiandong could only show an awkward yet polite smile.


    ¡°Haha... So it¡¯s like that... Well, you don¡¯t need to take it to heart, it was all a coincidence.¡±


    ¡°These are gifts from the boss; I also just happened to discuss a potential partnership with Mr. Yue.¡±


    Looking at the valuable gifts, Yue Jiandong quickly refused, ¡°Although I would certainly welcome a partnership, there¡¯s no need for gifts. It¡¯s just something the kids mentioned casually, and it¡¯s good fortune for your young master.¡±


    If the young master could be considered fortunate, then would there be any unfortunate people left in the world?


    Zheng Tianbo thought sarcastically, but he insisted on leaving the gifts at the Yue Family¡¯s home.


    ¡°I am acting under orders, please don¡¯t make this difficult for me.¡±


    After pushing back and forth for a while, since Zheng Tianbo¡¯s team outnumbered him, the gifts were ultimately left behind, but they firmly refused the money.


    Afterward, Yue Jiandong and Zheng Tianbo finalized the details of their cooperation, and Four Seas Restaurant clinched the deal for all of the Yue Family¡¯s fish for the coming year.


    Yue Jiandong would also purchase some quality poultry and grains from the village to send to the restaurant.


    The two talked until dusk was nearly upon them before Zheng Tianbo prepared to leave.


    Through this conversation, he gained a certain understanding of Yue Jiandong.


    Although coming from a rural background, Yue Jiandong was daring in his thoughts and ideas and was smart as well.


    Despite having never done business before, he seemed to understand a lot naturally and didn¡¯t share the greed of people like Wang Pengfei.


    Zheng Tianbo made up his mind that as long as Yue Jiandong didn¡¯t cause any trouble, this partnership could definitely be sustained for a long time.

 Chapter 126: 126: Wang Pengfei Visits

    Chapter 126: Chapter 126: Wang Pengfei Visits


    Yue Qingqing didn¡¯t get home with Yue Jiannan until around dinner time.


    The two had played around the fishpond and were a bit sweaty.


    As soon as she entered, Yue Qingqing¡¯s eyes stuck to the table.


    ¡°Dad, where did all these come from?¡±


    The colorful bags of snacks were naturally a child¡¯s kryptonite.


    Yue Qingqing, the foodie, couldn¡¯t stop swallowing saliva, even ignoring the delicious smell wafting from the kitchen.


    ...


    ¡°These are all for you.¡± Yue Jiandong recounted the day¡¯s events.


    Yue Qingqing blinked, oddly relieved.


    She had also made up her mind to say those few words earlier.


    Fearing that the other party would notice something and cause trouble later on.


    Fortunately, they only brought over some stuff and didn¡¯t bother too much, so it seemed they didn¡¯t suspect anything.


    Yue Qingqing happily picked up a bag of candy, ready to open it and share with the two kids.


    Lin Chunju came out with a plate, ¡°Leave it for now, eat it after dinner.¡±


    Yue Qingqing had to reluctantly stop her hands, staring pitifully at Lin Chunju.


    Unfortunately, in the whole family, only Lin Chunju had a bit of resistance to this tactic.


    ¡°No way, you¡¯re still growing, and snacks can¡¯t replace meals.¡±


    The three kids could only sit at the table with drooping heads, holding their rice bowls.


    This scene made everyone in the family laugh.


    Yue Xiaofang couldn¡¯t help but feel emotional, ¡°Now Jiandong¡¯s business has settled down, our family¡¯s days are going to get better and better.¡±


    Lin Chunju also couldn¡¯t help but reveal a slight smile.


    Now that each of the three kids had their own paths, the Yue Family was no longer the poor family in the village that anyone could bully.


    Early the next morning, Yue Jiandong went to find Grandma Zhou.


    Since he promised Zheng Tianbo to collect the best ingredients, he definitely wouldn¡¯t do a shoddy job.


    Grandma Zhou, who knew everything about the village like the back of her hand, was naturally the best choice.


    Grandma Zhou had always had a good relationship with the Yue Family, responded eagerly, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, leave it to me, absolutely no problem. You are paying more than usual, nobody would be unwilling.¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll be troubling you, I need to collect a batch of the best quality.¡±


    ¡°Of course, my eyes will keep watch for you.¡±


    With Grandma Zhou¡¯s promise, Yue Jiandong could finally relax, ready to head back home.


    Before reaching his doorstep, he saw from a distance several uninvited guests standing at the door.


    They looked aggressive, as if they had come for revenge.


    The person in the lead he recognized, it was Wang Pengfei, who came to buy fish before.


    ¡°Yue Jiandong, get out here!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t hide inside like a turtle, you dared to steal my business, don¡¯t you have the guts to face me?¡±


    ¡°Come out quick, or I¡¯m going to throw paint.¡±


    A few of them were actually holding paint cans, emitting a pungent smell.


    Today Lin Chunju happened to go to the fields to check on the second child turning the frozen ground, and Wang Xiaoni had just left to deliver meals.


    The only ones left at home were Yue Xiaofang and the three children.


    Hearing the ferocious voices outside, she originally didn¡¯t dare open the door, but she was also worried that they would really splash paint on the door.


    Usually, only debt collectors would do such a thing.


    If a family¡¯s door was splashed with red paint, everyone in the village would avoid them.


    Yue Xiaofang gritted her teeth and opened the door.


    ¡°Who are you, what do you want with my brother?¡±


    Finally seeing someone, Wang Pengfei looked her up and down and snorted, ¡°You¡¯re the Yue family¡¯s daughter who was sent back to her parents¡¯ home?¡±


    Yue Xiaofang frowned, ¡°Who are you?¡±


    ¡°Humph, you might not know me, but your brother does. Tell Yue Jiandong to stop being a turtle. If he¡¯s a man, he¡¯ll come out to face me!¡±


    If this had been before, Yue Xiaofang would definitely not have dared to raise her voice in such a situation.


    But with the confidence she had gained over time, she was becoming more and more like Lin Chunju.


    Hearing her family being insulted, she couldn¡¯t hold back and retorted.


    ¡°Watch your language. How has my brother provoked you?¡±


    Wang Pengfei spat at her, ¡°Get lost, is it your place to speak?¡±


    Saying that, he roughly pushed Yue Xiaofang, ready to lead his men directly into the Yue Family¡¯s home.

 Chapter 127: 127: A Tough Nut to Crack

    Chapter 127: Chapter 127: A Tough Nut to Crack


    Yue Xiaofang stumbled backward.


    Seeing the others ready to burst in like bandits, she quickly steadied herself and stretched her arms across the doorway.


    ¡°You can¡¯t enter, what right do you have to barge into my home?¡±


    Her shoulder throbbed with pain, probably bruised a great deal.


    Wang Pengfei clenched his fists, ¡°Good dogs don¡¯t block the way, I am definitely going to find Yue Jiandong today. If you stop me again, don¡¯t blame me for being rude.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang gritted her teeth, ¡°I told you, my brother is not here.¡±


    ...


    Wang Pengfei was completely infuriated, ¡°I¡¯ve heard long ago that you¡¯re a wretch who caused your father-in-law¡¯s death. It¡¯s no wonder your first husband used to beat you. How come he didn¡¯t beat you to death?¡±


    ¡°You!¡±


    Yue Xiaofang¡¯s pupils dilated as she watched Wang Pengfei¡¯s fist descending towards her cheek.


    But before the blow landed, a dull pain erupted from Wang Pengfei¡¯s lower back as he was fiercely kicked to the ground.


    Yue Jiandong, his face contorted with rage, stepped onto Wang Pengfei¡¯s chest, ¡°You dare to hit my sister?¡±


    Wang Pengfei, gasping for air under the pressure, had his associates rush forward in a hurry.


    However, something eerie occurred; though their fists were aimed at Yue Jiandong, with a flash, they ended up striking Wang Pengfei instead.


    Wang Pengfei took several hits to his face and stomach, howling in pain.


    Seeing his own men beating him, he was enraged to the point of spitting blood.


    ¡°Have you all gone mad?¡±


    The men looked at each other, too shocked to speak.


    Yue Jiandong didn¡¯t care about anything else. All he knew was that Wang Pengfei had just dared to hit Xiaofang.


    He pressed down hard with his foot, making it hard for Wang Pengfei to breathe.


    ¡°Beat him!¡± Wang Pengfei shouted hoarsely, feeling as if his internal organs were about to be squeezed out.


    Then...


    His face was ruthlessly beaten a few more times.


    Yue Jiandong, filled with rage, was momentarily stunned.


    How much hatred did Wang Pengfei¡¯s men have against him?


    Yue Xiaofang felt her clothes tug, and turning around, she saw a little head poking through the door crack.


    ¡°Auntie, come in.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang hurried inside and squatted in front of Yue Qingqing.


    ¡°Qingqing, were you frightened?¡±


    Yue Qingqing shook her head, placing her little hand on Yue Xiaofang¡¯s shoulder with a look of sympathy.


    ¡°Does it hurt?¡±


    Yue Xiaofang had been pushed hard without noticing earlier.


    Yue Xiaofang rubbed her head, deeply moved, ¡°It¡¯s okay, auntie doesn¡¯t hurt.¡±


    But glancing outside again, Yue Xiaofang grew worried.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know who these people are, and big brother definitely can¡¯t handle them alone.¡±


    As she spoke, she made to rush out again, but Yue Qingqing clutched her sleeve.


    ¡°Auntie, go find the police.¡±


    With Yue Xiaofang¡¯s slight build, going herself would be of little use.


    Although Yue Qingqing hadn¡¯t been in this world long, the concept of seeking help from the police when in trouble was deeply ingrained in her mind.


    A true child of New China, raised under the red flag.


    Yue Xiaofang hesitated, ¡°But my brother...¡±


    Yue Qingqing spoke firmly, ¡°First, go find the police.¡± There won¡¯t be any trouble here.


    Her daily dedication to Cultivation Base training had significantly improved her abilities.


    Still, being so young, she couldn¡¯t hold on for long.


    Yue Xiaofang bit her lip and decided to do as Yue Qingqing suggested.


    She ran out following the wall¡¯s edge while Wang Pengfei watched helplessly, unable to stop her.


    Moreover, he felt increasingly unable to breathe, his eyes beginning to show signs of congestion.


    Wang Pengfei could only plead, ¡°Yue Jiandong, let me go.¡±


    Yue Jiandong replied coldly, ¡°It was bad enough that you came to my home, but you dared to harm my family.¡±


    Wang Pengfei¡¯s breaths grew fainter, feeling as if he would pass out any moment.


    The men he had brought were intimidated, none of them expected Yue Jiandong to be such a tough opponent.

 Chapter 128: 128: Conjunctivitis

    Chapter 128: Chapter 128: Conjunctivitis


    Seeing Wang Pengfei gasping for air with difficulty, the people around him grew fearful, exchanging glances, feeling an urge to flee.


    If someone were to die today, it certainly wouldn¡¯t be a matter to jest about.


    Wang Pengfei saw nothing but a piercing white before his eyes, and for a moment, he was completely blind.


    At that instant, he regretted looking for trouble with Yue Jiandong immensely.


    He had seen Yue Jiandong a few times before and always thought the man was nothing more than a slightly clever country bumpkin.


    But now, he could genuinely feel that Yue Jiandong might actually take his life.


    ...


    The next second, Yue Jiandong finally moved his foot away, and with one hand, he hoisted Wang Pengfei up.


    ¡°Cough cough cough!¡±


    His lungs filled with air again; relief and panic from a narrow escape intertwined.


    Wang Pengfei¡¯s look towards Yue Jiandong was now filled with terror.


    ¡°Yue Jiandong, I underestimated you!¡±


    With a release of his hand, Yue Jiandong let go, and Wang Pengfei fell back to the ground, face-up.


    ¡°Doing business is something both you and I can do, who gave you the right to splash paint at my place?¡±


    After coughing a few more times, Wang Pengfei got up from the ground and said, ¡°Blocking someone¡¯s livelihood is like killing their parents, Yue Jiandong. You took my business; I won¡¯t let you off.¡±


    Yue Jiandong glared, and Wang Pengfei involuntarily shrank back.


    Finally, the police arrived and took the whole group away.


    Since Wang Pengfei was the one who started the fight, and there were no serious injuries on either side, the police ended up detaining him alone for a lecture.


    The two buckets of paint he brought were also confiscated.


    Wang Pengfei kept his head down, not saying much, but as soon as he left the police station, he glared hatefully in the direction of the Yue Family.


    The people by his side tried to persuade him, ¡°Brother Wang, let¡¯s just drop it, Yue Jiandong is a ruthless character.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, and the police said that if we had injured Yue Jiandong, we would definitely go to jail.¡±


    No matter what Wang Pengfei thought, they didn¡¯t dare come again.


    Wang Pengfei said angrily, ¡°Shut up, I have my own plans.¡±


    It was clear that an outright confrontation wouldn¡¯t work, but he was determined not to let Yue Jiandong and the Yue Family off easy.


    Truth be told, Wang Pengfei was aware that the manager of Four Seas Restaurant had been dissatisfied with him for quite some time.


    Even if it wasn¡¯t Yue Jiandong, someone else would have taken his place.


    But Wang Pengfei was still bitter.


    He still remembered the first time he met Yue Jiandong; the man nearly talked his ear off, just trying to get him to come to harvest fish from the pond.


    Now he was about to be overshadowed by him.


    Humph, just a mud-legged peasant! Thinking he could turn over a new leaf stepping on him?


    Wang Pengfei would never allow such a thing to happen.


    Lin Chunju and the others didn¡¯t find out about the incident until they returned from the fields, and they were immediately fearful.


    ¡°Thank goodness Jiandong got back in time. If those people had really broken in...¡±


    Damaging the stuff in the house was the least of their worries; there were three children at home, after all.


    If an accident happened, no amount of money could compensate for it.


    Wang Xiaoni and Zhang Ying held their children tight, feeling relieved but still scared.


    Yue Jiandong may have been ruthless with Wang Pengfei, but he was gentle and reassuring with his family.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be scared. Today was okay since Xiaofang was sharp to call the police. They¡¯ve already scolded them; Wang Pengfei definitely won¡¯t dare to come again.¡±


    Lin Chunju shook her head, ¡°Hearing you say that, that person came to our door with paint, and he dared to break into the house. Even though he¡¯s suffered a loss this time, he might not give up easily. We should still be careful.¡±


    Yue Jiannan angrily said, ¡°Brother hasn¡¯t even started his business properly and Wang Pengfei already knew about it. It must have been noticed when the manager came last time. Someone has been tipping him off.¡±


    Yue Jianxi sighed, ¡°Jealousy really does turn people red-eyed.¡±


    The Yue family realized that as they gradually became wealthier, more and more petty and jealous people were surfacing.


    Looked down upon when poor, yet wealthy success brings envy and hate.


    Lin Chunju looked around at her family, her gaze resolute, ¡°Regardless, we live our lives well, and we¡¯ll keep on improving.¡±


    Everyone nodded in agreement.


    ¡°Yes, definitely better.¡±

 Chapter 129: 129 Ma Jinbao Appears Again

    Chapter 129: Chapter 129 Ma Jinbao Appears Again


    A few days had passed since the incident, and Wang Pengfei hadn¡¯t come to cause trouble again.


    Perhaps it was the warning from the police last time, or maybe he was intimidated by Yue Jiandong.


    At least, he hadn¡¯t appeared in Daye Village again.


    Meanwhile, Yue Jiandong had received his first batch of goods.


    He and Granny Zhou carefully inspected them, and after confirming there were no issues, prepared to deliver them to the city.


    Early one morning, Yue Jiandong and Yue Xiaofang left home together.


    ...


    Yue Jiandong was heading to the city, while Yue Xiaofang was going to a sundry shop on the west side of the village to buy some daily necessities.


    The two chatted and laughed along the way, with Yue Xiaofang accompanying her brother to the edge of the village.


    She pulled out a pair of leather gloves from the cloth bag she was carrying.


    The outside was made of smooth, fine sheepskin, while the inside was warm cashmere.


    Not only did they look stylish, but they were also very warm.


    ¡°Brother, it¡¯s cold now, and your hands are getting chapped from picking up the goods every day. Wear these,¡± she said.


    Yue Jiandong hurriedly waved his hands, ¡°Such fine material, it would be a pity for me to use it.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s a pity? Don¡¯t feel burdened, this was made from leftover material from the last job. The boss from Orchid Pavilion said I could use it,¡± she reassured him.


    Only then did Yue Jiandong carefully accept them and put them on, only to find they fit perfectly.


    He felt a surge of warmth in his heart, yet deliberately put on a stern face and asked, ¡°Did you make some for mother?¡±


    Yue Xiaofang couldn¡¯t help but roll her eyes, ¡°Of course I made mother¡¯s first before yours. I haven¡¯t finished making our second brother¡¯s yet. There¡¯s no more material left, so Jiannan won¡¯t get any.¡±


    After all, Yue Jiannan wasn¡¯t tilling the fields anymore, and he no longer needed to feed the fish, so gloves weren¡¯t much use to him.


    Relieved, Yue Jiandong admired the gloves from every angle, pleased with every glance.


    ¡°Xiaofang, thank you,¡± he said.


    Yue Xiaofang disliked such formalities, ¡°Why thank me, your own sister? Hurry to the city, the ox cart is waiting for you.¡±


    Her personality had become much livelier than before, seeming to have completely shed the shadows of the past.


    When Yue Jiandong left, a goofy smile hung on his face, and he didn¡¯t know where to put his hands, fearing he might soil them.


    Seeing her brother¡¯s expression made Yue Xiaofang burst into laughter as well.


    She cheerfully walked towards the grocery store.


    After buying a round of goods, Yue Xiaofang carried her fabric bag back, pondering what chores to do today.


    Having just finished hemming trousers yesterday, she thought she might work on some small items today, perhaps to speed up the completion of their second brother¡¯s gloves.


    She walked and thought at the same time.


    Midway, however, she encountered someone she didn¡¯t want to see at all.


    After two months, the face of Ma Jinbao reappeared in her sight.


    Unpleasant memories surged, and Yue Xiaofang felt her skin crawl all over.


    Ma Jinbao had been discharged from the hospital not long ago, seeming to have recovered as usual.


    A pretty woman, with hair curled into large waves, accompanied him. Yue Xiaofang was not unfamiliar with her appearance.


    Pan Xiumei, a well-known young widow from Jinshan Village.


    In the past, Ma Jinbao often spoke in her presence, one moment praising Pan Xiumei¡¯s beauty and unfortunate life, the next claiming Yue Xiaofang was not as gentle and virtuous.


    Back then, Yue Xiaofang, tormented by his family, never dared to talk back to Ma Jinbao. Even if she sensed something, she pretended to be ignorant.


    Ma Jinbao was also sizing up Yue Xiaofang with squinted eyes.


    Having not seen her for a while, Yue Xiaofang¡¯s complexion had improved significantly, slowly regaining the look she had before her marriage.


    The clothes she wore were no longer drab. They looked like city styles, which unexpectedly made her look somewhat radiant.


    Seeing how Yue Xiaofang looked now, Ma Jinbao thought of the news that someone had shared with him, and walked over arrogantly with the woman by his side.


    ¡°Yue Xiaofang, I heard you¡¯ve made it big now. I came especially to see you,¡± he said.

 Chapter 130 130: 130: Speak Clearly

    Chapter 130: Chapter 130: Speak Clearly


    As Ma Jinbao drew closer, the nauseating feeling intensified.


    Yue Xiaofang almost couldn¡¯t suppress the urge to vomit.


    She pinched herself hard, trying to stand up straight.


    The ones who should be afraid were they who had done something wrong, not herself.


    Yue Xiaofang wanted to walk past him without a word, but Ma Jinbao grabbed her wrist.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be in such a hurry to leave, after all, you¡¯re a woman I¡¯ve slept with. Let¡¯s catch up a bit.¡±


    ...


    ¡°Get lost!¡± Yue Xiaofang broke free from his grasp and glared at him fiercely.


    Ma Jinbao had deliberately waited near the Yue Family home, and many people had seen this former son-in-law.


    The Yue Family was now the most scrutinized family in Daye Village, without much competition.


    Especially the grievances between Yue Xiaofang and the Ma Jinbao family had spread widely, not just in Daye Village and Jinshan Village, but also in the nearby villages.


    Therefore, many people had come out to watch the excitement, and quite a few were stretching their necks out the windows, looking over here.


    Ma Jinbao let go of her hand, ¡°Yo, can¡¯t even be touched anymore? What¡¯s with the act of the virtuous and chaste woman?¡±


    Yue Xiaofang enunciated every word, ¡°What do you mean by that?¡±


    ¡°I heard you¡¯ve made quite a bit of money in the city. You know very well how you got that money.¡±


    The insinuating words of Ma Jinbao reminded many people that the visits of the Yue Family to the city indeed had become more frequent.


    Not to mention the men of the family, it seemed that Xiaofang herself had also made several trips.


    Public opinion is a knife that kills without drawing blood; the buzzing of gossip made it impossible for Yue Xiaofang to just walk away.


    ¡°Make yourself clear, what are you trying to say exactly?¡±


    Ma Jinbao snickered, ¡°The one doing shameful things isn¡¯t me, so what can¡¯t I say? You, Yue Xiaofang, have earned money by selling your body, losing all face for yourself and your family, and now you still pretend to have integrity?¡±


    The allegation stirred up a storm among the onlookers, who were taken aback to hear such news.


    Yue Xiaofang was stunned for a moment, disbelieving her own ears.


    After a while, she suddenly charged forward, crashing into Ma Jinbao like a cannonball.


    Caught off guard, Ma Jinbao was knocked to the ground.


    ¡°You want to ruin my reputation, drive me to death? Then let¡¯s die together!¡±


    Yue Xiaofang picked up a stone beside her and smashed it down on Ma Jinbao viciously.


    Ma Jinbao, frightened, turned over on the ground and scrambled away.


    ¡°Have you gone mad?¡±


    Xiaofang¡¯s decisiveness shocked the onlookers, and the doubts that had just filled the air turned to astonishment.


    Yue Xiaofang didn¡¯t at all seem like someone who had done wrong.


    Seeing the situation, Ma Jinbao immediately raised his voice, ¡°Yue Xiaofang, people have personally seen you returning from the city loaded with money and goods. What other way is there to make money so quickly, if not by spreading your legs?¡±


    His companion Pan Xiumei added fuel to the fire, ¡°The clothes you¡¯re wearing are also unique in our village. That fabric, it¡¯s clearly not something we country folks can afford.¡±


    Listening and looking, the crowd seemed to think there was some truth to what the two said.


    Yue Xiaofang wished she could tear this couple apart with her bare hands.


    Just then, the Yue Family heard the news and rushed over.


    Lin Chunju stood in front of Xiaofang, her eyes full of hatred as she looked at Ma Jinbao.


    Ma Jinbao gave her a smug smile, and the surrounding whispers gradually reached Lin Chunju¡¯s ears.


    ¡°I said a long time ago, the Yue Family has been poor for so many years. If they were going to prosper, they would have done it long ago. How come they suddenly have money this year?¡±


    ¡°Yue Xiaofang doesn¡¯t seem like anything good, always dressing up so flashily. Which divorced woman dresses like that?¡±


    ¡°Once people lose their morals, they¡¯re capable of anything. Isn¡¯t Xiaofang following her mother? I heard the Lin widow used to be quite good-looking. Has she really been honest all these years?¡±

 Chapter 131 131: 131: Defend Honor with Blood

    Chapter 131: Chapter 131: Defend Honor with Blood


    In this world, ruining a woman couldn¡¯t be easier.


    Just add some fuel to the fire about her romantic scandals and fabricate some baseless stories.


    Soon, she would become the slut in everyone¡¯s eyes and be humiliated to death.


    Hearing the surrounding gossip, Yue Xiaofang trembled all over.


    Lin Chunju sensed something was wrong and covered her ears with her hands, but could not shut out the mouths of others.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t!¡± Yue Xiaofang cried out, while the onlookers just watched her coldly.


    ...


    ¡°I really didn¡¯t!¡± Her cries were heart-wrenching.


    However, the crowd acted as if they hadn¡¯t heard, buzzing with excitement in their discussions.


    ¡°This morning I saw her give the Yue Family eldest a pair of gloves, made of sheepskin no less. Who in the village could afford that? It must have been a gift from her lover.¡±


    ¡°Why did Ma Jinbao¡¯s family beat Yue Xiaofang before, why not someone else? Surely it was because Yue Xiaofang was not chaste.¡±


    ¡°His family killed all her children, maybe because Yue Xiaofang was cheating, and the kids weren¡¯t even his.¡±


    Gossip burrowed into the ears of the Yue Family, one after another stated with certainty, all aiming to throw Yue Xiaofang into an abyss of irredeemable darkness.


    Yue Jiannan swung his fists at the people around him and shouted loudly, ¡°Shut up, my sister is not what you say she is¡ªall her money comes from working as a tailor in the city!¡±


    Zhang Ying wept copiously, ¡°Xiaofang is innocent, it¡¯s the Ma family who were the beasts.¡±


    But the louder they were, the more guilty they appeared.


    Ma Jinbao, embracing Pan Xiumei¡¯s waist, walked up to Yue Xiaofang with disdain on his face.


    ¡°I must have been blind to marry a flirtatious woman like you, wasting my father¡¯s life, but luckily I woke up in time.¡±


    ¡°Now Xiumei is pregnant and will definitely give birth to a precious son, unlike you, who only gave birth to a liability, pah!¡±


    Pan Xiumei lifted her hand to tuck her hair behind her ear, her face all smiles.


    ¡°Xiaofang, I should actually thank you. If it wasn¡¯t for you, how would I have found such a fine man? Tell me, we¡¯re both wives, why has Ma Jinbao never laid a hand on me? Think about it yourself.¡±


    Her daughter being insulted like this nearly snapped the last cord of sanity in Lin Chunju¡¯s mind.


    She surged to her feet, ready to fight those two.


    But she was firmly embraced by Yue Xiaofang, ¡°Mother!¡±


    The onlookers watched Yue Xiaofang as if she were a joke, the disdain and malice in their eyes nearly spilling over.


    A few men leered at Yue Xiaofang with blatant lust.


    One of them, a scoundrel, laughed deliberately, ¡°Yue Xiaofang, why do you only sell yourself in the city? Us fellow villagers have some money too, don¡¯t let outsiders have it all.¡±


    Yue Jiannan suddenly charged forward, lifting his fist towards the man¡¯s face.


    But before he could reach him, he was restrained by other men.


    ¡°Alright, he was just joking, why start hitting him?¡±


    ¡°If your family is not feeling guilty, why be so agitated?¡±


    Yue Jiannan was frail, struggling several times without getting any closer to the scoundrel, frustrating himself to the point of almost vomiting blood.


    The scoundrel, known in the village as a wastrel, with no skill or education, abandoned by his parents, had not managed to find a wife even nearly at thirty.


    In the village, he spent his days peeping at young wives bathing, and had been beaten numerous times.


    This was the first time someone attacked him and was restrained.


    The scoundrel was thrilled, becoming even more arrogant, ¡°What¡¯s the matter? If you can do such things, are you afraid of people talking? You are just a discarded shoe sent back by your husband¡¯s family, nothing you do would be surprising.¡±


    ¡°I figure since nobody wants you, might as well I make do, but don¡¯t expect a dowry from me. The Yue Family should pay me instead!¡±


    Laughter erupted among the crowd.


    Amidst this mocking laughter, Yue Xiaofang¡¯s gaze shifted to a wooden post not far away.


    Now, no matter what she said, she could not prove her innocence; perhaps her death would suffice.


    She was resolved to use her blood to preserve both her honor and that of the Yue Family!

 Chapter 132 132: 132 Thunderous Snowfall

    Chapter 132: Chapter 132 Thunderous Snowfall


    The Yue family was seething with anger, yet they failed to notice Yue Xiaofang¡¯s expression.


    By the time Lin Chunju realized what was happening, Yue Xiaofang had already charged fiercely toward the pillar.


    In an instant, all noise came to an abrupt halt.


    The onlookers¡¯ laughter seemed to get stuck in their throats.


    Everyone watched, eyes wide, as Yue Xiaofang¡¯s head neared the pillar.


    ¡°Xiaofang!¡± Lin Chunju¡¯s eyes were about to split open, as though she had fallen into an icy pit.


    ...


    At that moment, the pillar suddenly broke.


    It split into two without any warning.


    Yue Xiaofang missed and fell to the ground due to inertia.


    Zhang Ying and Wang Xiaoni hurried over and clung desperately to Yue Xiaofang.


    Lin Chunju was completely limp and barely managed to stagger to her daughter¡¯s side.


    ¡°Xiaofang, why are you so foolish...¡±


    Yue Xiaofang was unable to speak, staring blankly at the pillar.


    As if a pause button had been released, the villagers began to react again.


    ¡°Did you see that? Just as Yue Xiaofang was about to hit the pillar... How did it just break on its own?¡±


    ¡°It was perfectly fine, how could this happen?¡±


    Then, someone suddenly shouted, ¡°It¡¯s snowing!¡±


    Feather-like snowflakes began to fall abruptly, without any sign beforehand.


    After the weather turned cold, Daye Village had seen two or three snowfalls.


    But those were always faint flurries, the kind that would melt by the next day.


    This time, however, the snow fell thick and fast as if it cost nothing, quickly blanketing the ground in white.


    Ma Jinbao stood dumbly in place, lost in thought.


    After a long while, someone finally spoke.


    ¡°Why is it suddenly snowing so heavily? It¡¯s almost like...¡±


    She glanced at Yue Xiaofang and swallowed the rest of her words, shivering uncontrollably.


    In dramas they say that when a person is wronged, snow will fall even in June.


    The pillar Yue Xiaofang aimed for was normally used by villagers to tie up livestock, and even oxen and horses couldn¡¯t pull it down.


    Yet it had split cleanly in half.


    The brave among them stepped forward to look and saw it was as if sawn by a saw, with not a splinter in sight.


    Boom!


    Thunder rumbled through the sky, exploding above Daye Village.


    ¡°Heaven is angry, it must be enraged.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t clear who was speaking, but their voice quivered.


    The people from the Yue family, who had just been so sure of themselves, couldn¡¯t help but shiver and back away, trying to blend into the crowd.


    But as they approached, everyone else moved aside, as if afraid of being struck by lightning along with them.


    At that moment, Lin Chunju suddenly realized something and moved swiftly toward Ma Jinbao.


    With a slap, Ma Jinbao¡¯s head jerked to the side.


    ¡°For slandering Xiaofang, you deserve to be struck dead by lightning.¡±


    Boom!


    With Lin Chunju¡¯s curse, the thunder sounded again.


    The lightning piercing the clouds looked like a giant dragon.


    Ma Jinbao was intent on arguing.


    ¡°I... I didn¡¯t, it was Yue Xiaofang herself!¡±


    A bolt of lightning struck fiercely at Ma Jinbao¡¯s feet.


    Though it was broad daylight, the exploding lightning almost blinded everyone, and sparks flew along the ground.


    Ma Jinbao screamed in terror and abruptly sat down on the ground.


    Pan Xiumei also screamed involuntarily, covering her belly and trying to approach Ma Jinbao, but was pushed away by a man.


    Ma Jinbao knelt and crawled a few steps away.


    ¡°It was me! I framed her. Someone paid me to do it; I really didn¡¯t want to stir up trouble with her again.¡±


    ¡°Who told you to come?¡±


    With tears and snot running down his face, Ma Jinbao dared not hide anything anymore.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know him; only that he¡¯s a businessman from a nearby village. He paid me to do this and told me the Yue family had become wealthy. He asked me to find a way to smear dirt on Yue Xiaofang.¡±


    ¡°Spare me, I¡¯ll go, I¡¯ll leave right now and never appear before you again.¡±

 Chapter 133 133: 133 Thank You

    Chapter 133: Chapter 133 Thank You


    ¡°`


    Ma Jinbao crawled on all fours, trembling at every crash of thunder ringing in his ears.


    Pan Xiumei lay on the ground, clutching her stomach and wailing incessantly.


    ¡°My stomach, my stomach, my child.¡±


    She had been shoved by Ma Jinbao a moment ago and now felt as though a knife was incessantly churning inside her.


    Ma Jinbao knelt on the ground, knocking his head on the floor repeatedly, ¡°Spare me, I dare not, I really dare not.¡±


    ...


    He took all the money out of his pockets.


    ¡°This is the money that person gave me. I was possessed, Xiaofang, please spare me.¡±


    A gust of wind whipped up the money from the ground, stark against the swirling snowflakes.


    But everyone present just watched wide-eyed, not daring to step forward and scramble for it.


    It was as if this were joss paper from the Underworld, and taking it would summon King Yama to claim their lives.


    Yue Xiaofang¡¯s voice was hoarse with hatred as she glared at Ma Jinbao, ¡°Get out!¡±


    Ma Jinbao, as if granted a pardon, helped Pan Xiumei and ran away.


    Bloodstains dotted the ground, seemingly dripping from Pan Xiumei¡¯s trousers.


    After Ma Jinbao rolled away, the onlookers from Daye Village didn¡¯t dare to linger long.


    Scared witless as if they had seen a ghost, they took off running.


    But one of them suddenly slipped on the ground, crashing onto a rock, and his forehead was bloodied at once.


    He didn¡¯t have time to cry out in pain, simply holding his head and running off into the distance.


    Lin Chunju helped Yue Xiaofang up, her face filled with fear.


    ¡°Why would you be so rash, child? Let them talk if they have nothing better to say¡ªyour life is what¡¯s most important.¡±


    Zhang Ying also spoke through sobs, ¡°If something happened to you, what would your family do? Your mother¡¯s eyes would surely be cried blind.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang regained some strength and hung her head in shame.


    She had only been thinking of proving her innocence and had indeed forgotten about her family in that instant.


    Wang Xiaoni wiped away her tears, ¡°Let¡¯s go home first.¡±


    Only Yue Jiannan stood there dumbly, scooping up a handful of snow from the ground.


    The snowflakes melted in his palm, the icy sensation making Yue Jiannan shiver.


    Was it not a dream after all?


    Had the heavens truly been watching over the Yue Family, recognizing their wrongs?


    But why hadn¡¯t they revealed themselves earlier, letting the Yue Family suffer such humiliation for over a decade?


    While Yue Jiannan¡¯s thoughts ran wild, his gaze suddenly fixed on the haystack not far away.


    Behind the haystack almost half as tall as a person, a pale pink sleeve poked out.


    It was the fabric Yue Xiaofang had specially bought for the two girls in the family on her last trip to the city; it was unique in Daye Village.


    Yue Jiannan didn¡¯t hesitate, rushing over immediately.


    ¡°Qingqing!¡±


    Yue Qingqing lay half-supported behind the haystack, her small face so pale it was shocking, lips devoid of color.


    No one knew when she had hidden herself there.


    ¡°It hurts,¡± Yue Qingqing muttered softly, leaning lightly against the haystack.


    Her head felt like it was about to explode.


    Yue Jiannan quickly carried the child back into the house.


    ¡°Mother, sister-in-law, come quick, what¡¯s happened to Qingqing?¡±


    Zhang Ying, who had just calmed down, was suddenly gripped by fear and took the child from Yue Jiannan¡¯s arms.


    Yue Qingqing tried to shake her head and say something comforting to her mother with a smile.


    But her head tilted, and she fainted.


    When she woke up again it was night, and the house was brightly lit by candles.


    Yue Qingqing shook her head; the warm towel on her forehead slid down onto the pillow.


    ¡°Bao, you¡¯re awake!¡± Zhang Ying had been sitting by the bed, holding her daughter¡¯s hand all this time, not daring to leave.


    Yue Qingqing¡¯s headache was less severe, and she slowly sat up.


    While Yue Qingqing had been unconscious, Wang Xiaoni had fetched a doctor, but he couldn¡¯t determine the cause.


    He could only speculate that she had been frightened by the day¡¯s events.


    The doctor advised the family to watch for any fever following and left after prescribing some medicine.


    The family was in a frenzy, and even Yue Xiaofang couldn¡¯t afford to be sad or upset.


    Upon hearing that Qingqing was awake, Lin Chunju immediately came over and embraced her granddaughter.


    ¡°Qingqing...¡± Thank you.


    Perhaps Lin Chunju was the only one in the family to have guessed what had happened.


    She couldn¡¯t say this thank you out loud in front of everyone, but she etched it into her heart.


    Qingqing was their family¡¯s lucky star.


    ¡°`

 Chapter 134 134: 134: Trust in Science

    Chapter 134: Chapter 134: Trust in Science


    The incident with Yue Xiaofang had significant lingering effects.


    The village head had to convene several whole-village meetings to educate everyone on the common knowledge about winter dry thunder and snowfall.


    The central message was that everything was a coincidence, and people should not believe or spread rumors or engage in feudal superstitions privately.


    Indeed, some listened, but those who were present that day couldn¡¯t quite get over it.


    A pillar thick as a bowl breaks just like that, and you want me to believe in science?


    The lightning, as if it had eyes, strikes right at Ma Jinbao¡¯s feet, and you want me to believe in science?


    ...


    The person who badmouthed Yue Xiaofang falls and hits his head on a rock, staying home for a long time without being able to go out, and you want me to believe in science?


    Of course, the village head also emphasized.


    Although it was a coincidence, everyone shouldn¡¯t blindly follow hearsay and ruin others¡¯ reputations.


    It¡¯s indisputable that Yue Xiaofang works for a tailor shop in the city.


    The village head even circulated a contract provided by the Yue family around the village.


    Those who could read were astonished by the numbers on it.


    Only then did they realize that Yue Xiaofang earned much more per garment than they had imagined.


    Many, with varying thoughts, specifically went to the Yue family to apologize, hoping to mend neighborly relations.


    Lin Chunju was very indifferent toward these people.


    Out of respect for being fellow villagers, she didn¡¯t throw them out.


    But no matter what the others said, she didn¡¯t respond, leaving many to leave in disquiet.


    Yet they didn¡¯t dare slander the Yue family behind their backs, fearful of being struck by ¡°eye-equipped¡± lightning during a rainy day.


    Mrs. Zhou made a special trip to visit Xiaofang at the Yue family.


    ¡°You child, you have experienced too little. Why torment your own life like this?¡±


    Yue Xiaofang bit her lower lip, ¡°I just couldn¡¯t help it in that moment.¡±


    ¡°Yes, after you die, indeed no one will say anything, but if you¡¯re gone, what use is anything else? In a few months, who will even remember what they said? Only your family will grieve for a lifetime.¡±


    Seeking death for the sake of reputation just causes pain to loved ones and joy to enemies.


    Mrs. Zhou, well-informed, shared some gossip she heard from Jinshan Village while chatting with Lin Chunju.


    She heard that after Pan Xiumei returned, she nearly lost her baby and was later sent to a city hospital by Ma Jinbao, where spending a lot of money finally stabilized her condition.


    Li Zhao, already displeased that Pan Xiumei was a widow, tolerated her because she was pregnant.


    This time, she didn¡¯t make it easy for Pan Xiumei over the money spent.


    The mother-in-law and daughter-in-law, with Ma Jinbao in between, caused endless strife in the family.


    Initially, Pan Xiumei demanded a grand wedding upon marrying into the family, which Ma Jinbao had agreed to.


    But with this disturbance, the Ma family, unsure if the child could be safely delivered, naturally disagreed with holding a wedding now.


    Pan Xiumei had no choice but to swallow her complaints and bear the grievances.


    Mrs. Zhou concluded, ¡°I see their own days are messy enough; add to that Ma Jinbao being terrified, he will definitely not dare to cause trouble again.¡±


    Yue Jiandong clenched his fist, ¡°If he dares come again, he won¡¯t return in one piece.¡±


    He had just learned about the incident after returning from the city and was furious.


    If Ma Jinbao dared to trouble his sister again, he was prepared to take revenge, even at the cost of his own life.


    He also suspected that Wang Pengfei was probably the one who instigated Ma Jinbao to go to Daye Village, although there was no evidence, but he kept this account in mind.


    He would definitely find a way to settle the score!


    Mrs. Zhou changed the topic, ¡°Oh, Wang Jinshun¡¯s verdict came in, he¡¯s been sentenced to three years.¡±


    With all that had happened recently, the Yue family had really forgotten about that person.


    Mrs. Zhou chuckled, ¡°Actually, despite the troubling events, there¡¯s a silver lining.¡±


    ¡°He Zhenzhen has been keeping quiet ever since her husband¡¯s verdict, hiding from you like a mouse, not daring to show her face.¡±


    Indeed, in today¡¯s Daye Village, who would dare trouble the Yue family.


    Although still filled with jealousy, her life was obviously more important.


    He Zhenzhen probably thought the same.


    Later, the Yue family heard that not long after Wang Jinshun was imprisoned, He Zhenzhen quickly remarried.


    She married a relatively wealthy widower in the village, a butcher named Zhang.


    Her son, Wang Daming, did not change his surname, but her daughter, Wang Caidie, quickly changed hers to Zhang following her new father.


    From beginning to end, they didn¡¯t dare trouble the Yue family again.

 Chapter 135 135: 135: Speak of the Devil

    Chapter 135: Chapter 135: Speak of the Devil


    Two weeks had passed, and the New Year¡¯s Spring Festival was just around the corner.


    ¡°We¡¯re home!¡±


    The tinkling sound of the bell drew closer and closer.


    Zhang Ying walked to the outer courtyard and saw her husband getting off the new bicycle. With a kick of the stand, he steadied the bike.


    He reached out and lifted Yue Qingqing off the back seat.


    Yue Qingqing¡¯s face was wrapped in a fluffy scarf, revealing only her small, tender cheeks and a pair of bright, lively eyes.


    ...


    She was dressed very warmly, resembling a puffed-up cotton candy.


    So sweet and adorable, it made one almost want to take a bite.


    That¡¯s exactly what Yue Jiandong did, gently biting his daughter¡¯s cheek.


    ¡°Let me see just how thick our treasure¡¯s skin is.¡±


    Before he could leave a mark, Zhang Ying pushed him away.


    ¡°What are you doing? You¡¯ll hurt Qingqing again.¡±


    Zhang Ying was usually a gentle, good-natured person, showing fierceness only when it came to her daughter.


    Her protective instincts made even Yue Jiandong admit defeat.


    Yue Jiandong grinded his teeth, ¡°This kid is such a little foodie. Whenever she sees something tasty at a stall, she can¡¯t move past it, looking like she never gets enough to eat at home.¡±


    Zhang Ying held Yue Qingqing and kissed her firmly twice, then countered each point.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it normal for kids to love food? Besides, the New Year is just a few days away. We should buy some snacks and sweets.¡±


    As she spoke, she nuzzled her nose against her daughter¡¯s cheek, her tone affectionate and tender.


    ¡°Qingqing is the best, isn¡¯t she?¡±


    Yue Qingqing replied in a babyish voice, ¡°Exactly.¡±


    Yue Jiandong couldn¡¯t stand it anymore, took the cured meat and couplets hanging from the bike¡¯s handle, and walked towards the house.


    ¡°Mom, let¡¯s hang the couplets later.¡±


    Lin Chunju responded and took the items to the table, then directed Yue Jiannan.


    ¡°Third son, go get some more fish from the pond for the New Year¡¯s Eve dinner. How can we have a meal without fish?¡±


    Yue Jiannan readily agreed, ¡°You didn¡¯t even have to mention it, I remember. I was just thinking about cutting a hole in the ice in the fish pond these days to let some air in and catch a few fish while I¡¯m at it.¡±


    He beamed and approached Yue Jiandong, ¡°Brother, let me ride your bike to the pond.¡±


    As the family¡¯s finances had improved over time, many new items had been added to the household, including Yue Jiandong¡¯s bicycle.


    It was a well-known brand, reputed for its excellent quality even on rough and uneven paths.


    Yue Jiandong usually rode the bicycle for his errands. Every time the bell rang, it drew lots of admiration.


    Although bicycles were not uncommon in the village, this brand was not cheap and not everyone could afford it.


    Many people realized only later that the Yue family was no longer the poor household that had to split a penny into several pieces.


    Yue Jiandong readily handed over the bicycle key and cautioned his brother, ¡°Feel free to ride it, but there¡¯s a lot of ice around now. Be careful not to fall.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, don¡¯t you know my skills already? I can ride no hands.¡±


    Watching Yue Jiannan run out the door, Yue Jiandong smiled and shook his head.


    ¡°This kid, always so energetic, yet he never quite settles down.¡±


    He was much older than his brother and had watched him grow from a baby always crying for milk to the person he was now, feeling quite moved.


    Yue Jianxi said meaningfully, ¡°He¡¯s not getting any younger; mom should start looking for a match for him.¡±


    Wang Xiaoni, who was busy with the children, couldn¡¯t help but look up and interject.


    ¡°Do you brothers even need to worry about that? Mom¡¯s already prepared, and if it weren¡¯t for the upcoming New Year, people would already be knocking on our door.¡±


    While they were talking, a noise came from the outer courtyard.


    ¡°Is Sister Lin around?¡±


    Zhang Ying, just as she was taking off Yue Qingqing¡¯s thick coat and hanging it up, glanced outside.


    The woman standing at the courtyard gate was Dong Cuifen, the village¡¯s well-known matchmaker.


    She and Wang Xiaoni exchanged glances and instinctively smiled.


    Talk about timing.

 Chapter 136: 136: For Whom It Comes

    Chapter 136: Chapter 136: For Whom It Comes


    Lin Chunju wiped her hands on her apron and came out to meet the visitor.


    ¡°What brings you here today?¡±


    As she spoke, Lin Chunju grabbed a handful of candy from the table and stuffed it into Dong Cuifen¡¯s front pocket.


    ¡°It¡¯s just in time for the New Year, to take back for the kids to try.¡±


    Dong Cuifen politely declined twice before finally taking a seat with a big smile on her face.


    The candies from the Yue Family were all purchased from the state-owned stores in the city, a different breed from those homemade ones from other villages.


    The cream candy melted in the mouth, so sweet and rich, that it felt like it could sweeten one¡¯s very heart.


    She wasn¡¯t willing to refuse them at all.


    Seeing the current state of the Yue Family, Dong Cuifen felt even more confident about her visit.


    ¡°Sister Lin, my visit today isn¡¯t just an ordinary social call; I¡¯ve come on a mission.¡±


    Lin Chunju was ready for this, thinking that her son had finally reached this day, her heart overwhelmed with mixed emotions.


    In the village, marriages typically happened early, with girls getting betrothed at sixteen and boys at eighteen.


    The two families would first have a formal betrothal drink and hold the wedding banquet a couple of years later.


    In the past, parents arranged marriages, and simply having the ceremony was enough to be considered husband and wife.


    In recent years, the country required marriage certificates, but many in the village didn¡¯t fuss over it.


    Source: , updated on ?¦Ï¦Í??.§ã?


    Many didn¡¯t bother with a certificate or held the wedding banquet first and waited until the appointed day to register.


    Previously, due to poor conditions at home, it took several years for a few kids in the family to get married.


    Fortunately, now that the family¡¯s circumstances had improved, Yue Jiannan would be eighteen in nominal age after the New Year.


    Lin Chunju thought about promptly matchmaking for him to settle down his heart, so he wouldn¡¯t keep behaving like a wild monkey without proper form.


    ¡°Sister Dong, actually, I¡¯ve been hoping for your visit.¡±


    Without being able to help it, Dong Cuifen broke into a grin, ¡°It seems you¡¯re getting anxious too.¡±


    ¡°Yes, my third son isn¡¯t getting any younger. It¡¯s time to find him a wife...¡±


    Mid-sentence, Dong Cuifen suddenly coughed, interrupting Lin Chunju.


    ¡°Sister Lin, my visit this time isn¡¯t for your third son.¡±


    Lin Chunju tilted her head and looked at her, confusion in her eyes.


    It seemed that the only child of suitable age in the household was Yue Jiannan; surely, it couldn¡¯t be about the Little Beans, that would be too ridiculous.


    Dong Cuifen lowered her voice and leaned in closer to Lin Chunju, ¡°I¡¯m here for Xiaofang.¡±


    ¡°Xiaofang?¡± Lin Chunju was a bit stunned; her mind couldn¡¯t quite make the connection.


    It wasn¡¯t her fault, considering that in those times it was rare for widows to be matchmade again, and many idle villagers would gossip behind one¡¯s back.


    As for women who had been sent back home after divorce, they had even less market value, with the mean-spirited ones even calling them ¡°worn-out shoes¡± behind their backs.


    Lin Chunju had thought that if anyone dared to insult her daughter like that, she would tear their mouth apart.


    In such circumstances, Lin Chunju never expected Dong Cuifen to come specifically for Xiaofang.


    With a smile on her face, Dong Cuifen said, ¡°Yes, Qiu Hong¡¯an¡¯s son from our village, named Qiu Maode, a tall and sturdy young man, he took one look at Xiaofang and was smitten.¡±


    Lin Chunju furrowed her brows and pondered for a moment; she had an impression of the person Dong Cuifen mentioned.


    The Qiu Family, much like the former Yue Family, was one of the less wealthy households in the village.


    Qiu Maode¡¯s family had even more sons than the Yue Family ¨C a total of five ¨C and Qiu Maode was the eldest.


    At thirty-five or thirty-six, Qiu Maode indeed had a good build and appeared very strong.


    To Lin Chunju, he always seemed like the diligent ox of the family, bearing burdens without complaint.


    The Qiu Family had many sons but only one piece of farmland, so life was tight for them.


    It was said that they were planning to rent more land this year and were discussing borrowing money with some relatives.


    Because Daye Village was not large, such news spread quickly, and even Lin Chunju, who was not familiar with his family, had heard about it.


    With matchmaking being proposed at such a time, Lin Chunju couldn¡¯t help but wonder.


    Yet she didn¡¯t show anything on her face, simply nodding, ¡°I understand, but I still need to discuss this with Xiaofang and hear her thoughts on the matter.¡±


    Dong Cuifen exclaimed, ¡°How can such a big decision be discussed with a child? Isn¡¯t it all up to your word whether it goes through or not?¡±


    But Lin Chunju disagreed, ¡°We still need to consider what Xiaofang thinks.¡±


    Dong Cuifen slightly pursed her lips, ¡°Sister Lin, not to be rude, but Xiaofang was indeed the belle of the village in her day, yet she¡¯s been married off before, and there¡¯s unpleasant gossip about her outside. Given her situation, it¡¯s good enough that anyone is willing to have her; why be so picky?¡±


    Hearing Dong Cuifen speak like this, Lin Chunju¡¯s face immediately darkened.

 Chapter 137: 137: Have You Thought About Remarrying?

    Chapter 137: Chapter 137: Have You Thought About Remarrying?


    Lin Chunju was unwilling to hear people speak of her daughter in such a manner, but she wouldn¡¯t go so far as to cause a scene on the spot.


    After all, this was the way of the world, and Dong Cuifen¡¯s words probably represented the thoughts of the majority.


    Suppressing her irritation, she spoke in a low voice, ¡°No matter what, our family needs to discuss this behind closed doors. Regardless of how others see Xiaofang, in my heart, she is a treasure. We can¡¯t just decide based on a few words.¡±


    Dong Cuifen¡¯s line of work was, after all, dependent on reading people¡¯s faces.


    Upon seeing this, her heart skipped a beat, and she hastily gave her mouth a moderate tap.


    ¡°Look at me, sometimes I speak without thinking. Xiaofang is skillful and earns a lot; she certainly won¡¯t have trouble finding a husband. It was the Qiu Maode family who pleaded with me for a long time before I put my face out there to make this visit.¡±


    If this had been the Yue Family of before, Dong Cuifen would have left with a disgruntled expression at the first sign of displeasure, but now she spoke with much more politeness.


    Lin Chunju¡¯s expression softened a bit, ¡°I also thank Dong Meizi for keeping us in mind, you¡¯ve worked hard.¡±


    As she spoke, she grabbed a handful of dried fruit and placed it in her hand.


    Dong Cuifen¡¯s remaining grievances immediately dissipated, and she said with a full-faced smile, ¡°I¡¯ve really taken advantage of this visit, thank you so much, Sister Lin. If there¡¯s anything else you need in the future, just come to me.¡±


    ¡°Agreed!¡±


    Lin Chunju saw her to the door, and as Dong Cuifen glanced at the new stone mill in the Yue family¡¯s courtyard, she added another comment.


    ¡°I hadn¡¯t heard that the third child was looking to be matched before today. If you trust me, you can also leave this matter to me; I guarantee I¡¯ll find someone who pleases your heart.¡±


    Lin Chunju said a few words of thanks and saw her out.


    Zhang Ying and Wang Xiaoni were working nearby, but their ears perked up all the same, listening to the entire exchange.


    Source: , updated on ??¦Í?0.§ã¦Ï


    Watching Lin Chunju head back into the house, they discussed quietly.


    ¡°Yingzi, do you think Mom would really be willing to let Xiaofang get married again?¡±


    Zhang Ying thought for a moment, ¡°I think what Mom said was heartfelt; she would definitely consider Xiaofang¡¯s own feelings.¡±


    In those days, most people still believed that a woman had to rely on a husband to survive.


    From this perspective, Dong Cuifen¡¯s remarks weren¡¯t entirely wrong; someone like Xiaofang would indeed have a difficult time finding a match in Daye Village.


    As for marrying into another village, Zhang Ying felt that after what they had gone through with Ma Jinbao, that brute, their mother would absolutely not consider it.


    Wang Xiaoni was knitting rapidly, her voice low as she said,


    ¡°Actually, having Xiaofang stay at home with us is great; as a family living together, it¡¯s better than anything else. Why should she have to marry out at all?¡±


    Zhang Ying couldn¡¯t help but glance at Wang Xiaoni a few times, not expecting the usually honest and down-to-earth Xiaoni to say such a thing.


    If outsiders heard it, they would surely scoff; in their eyes, a daughter should be like water splashed out of the home, how could she cling to her parental home for life?


    But in fact, Zhang Ying felt the same way; Xiaofang¡¯s temper couldn¡¯t be gentler, and with the whole family living together, they scarcely had any conflicts, let alone arguments.


    If Xiaofang were to get married... who knows how she would be treated by the other party.


    Meanwhile, Lin Chunju entered the room and sat beside her daughter, watching her work the needles swiftly.


    Yue Xiaofang was engrossed, and it took a while before she noticed someone beside her, which startled her.


    ¡°Mom, I didn¡¯t even notice you coming in.¡±


    Lin Chunju smiled and picked up what her daughter was making, inspecting it, ¡°I just came in to have a look. Our Xiaofang really is skillful.¡±


    In the past, Yue Xiaofang would undoubtedly have been very modest, but now she just pursed her lips and smiled.


    ¡°I¡¯m just following after Mom.¡±


    ¡°You little girl,¡± Lin Chunju hugged Yue Xiaofang¡¯s shoulders, seeing her in a good mood, she carefully broached the subject.


    ¡°Xiaofang, have you ever thought about remarrying?¡±


    A gentle and delicate question, yet it caused Yue Xiaofang¡¯s face to change drastically.


    ¡°Mom, what do you mean by this?¡±


    Has she been at home for so long that even her mother has started to find her a nuisance, just like those people outside?

 Chapter 138: 138 Why Dont You Want to Marry Me?

    Chapter 138: Chapter 138 Why Don¡¯t You Want to Marry Me?


    No one knows a daughter like her mother.


    Seeing Yue Xiaofang¡¯s expression, Lin Chunju knew what she was thinking.


    She reached out and pointed hard at her forehead, ¡°You ungrateful little thing, is this how you think of your mother?¡±


    Yue Xiaofang felt a slight pain between her brows, but her heart settled, ¡°Mom, you¡¯re perfectly fine, why bring up such a scary topic?¡±


    Lin Chunju spilled the beans, detailing how Qiu Maode had come looking for a matchmaker.


    Yue Xiaofang listened while continuing the work in her hands.


    Only after her mother finished speaking did she respond, ¡°That so-called Qiu Maode, I don¡¯t even know him, I can barely match a face to the name.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t think it¡¯ll work?¡±


    ¡°No way!¡± Yue Xiaofang put her things down and turned to look seriously at Lin Chunju.


    ¡°Mom, I don¡¯t want to get married. Can I just rely on the Yue family in the future?¡±


    ¡°Why not? I¡¯d be happy to death. From now on, you¡¯ll stay beside me and we¡¯ll live together, just the two of us.¡±


    Only then did Yue Xiaofang start to feel cheerful, resting her head on Lin Chunju¡¯s shoulder.


    Having made up her mind, Lin Chunju felt it was better to reject the proposal sooner rather than later, to avoid creating any undue expectations in the other party.


    So when Yue Jiannan came back, she sent him out again.


    ¡°Youngest, go to Dong Cuifen¡¯s place for me and deliver a message.¡±


    Source: , updated on ?¦Ï¦Í?0.§ã¦Ï


    Yue Jiannan, who had just come in sweating, had no complaints and simply asked, ¡°What for?¡±


    ¡°She came asking about your sister¡¯s intentions on behalf of Qiu Maode.¡±


    Yue Jiannan immediately turned to Yue Xiaofang, ¡°That definitely won¡¯t do. Sister, Qiu Maode is already thirty-six and you just turned twenty-three after the New Year. That¡¯s a thirteen-year difference, what gives him the right to be a cradle-snatcher?¡±


    The so-described ¡®tender grass¡¯ Yue Xiaofang was rather pleased, ¡°So I¡¯m just staying at home every day, you don¡¯t find me annoying, brother?¡±


    ¡°How could I? The shoes you make for me are both nice looking and sturdy, really warm too. When I wear them out, everyone¡¯s envious.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang playfully hit him, ¡°You rascal, always thinking about the things your sister makes for you.¡±


    Yue Jiannan just chuckled, ¡°Even if you didn¡¯t make anything you¡¯d still be my sister. Anyway, I¡¯ll go over there and turn him down for you. Qiu Maode can forget about becoming my brother-in-law.¡±


    As he ran outside, he still remembered to grab a sturdy lad.


    ¡°Qingqing, do you want to come with me?¡±


    ¡°I do!¡± Yue Qingqing happily agreed, being lifted onto the rear seat of the bicycle.


    Zhang Ying hurriedly followed, calling out, ¡°Youngest, ride slowly.¡±


    Yue Jiannan had already pedaled off, his bell clanging in the distance, his voice carried by the wind.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, sister-in-law!¡±


    Zhang Ying couldn¡¯t help but laugh at the sight; the silly boy didn¡¯t even think about it.


    He had just gotten back, and why did his mother send him off to deliver a message again?


    It was to get Dong Cuifen to check him out discreetly, to facilitate introducing a girl to the Yue family.


    No one in the family really paid any mind to this matter, least of all Yue Xiaofang herself.


    She had firmly decided not to marry.


    Her last marriage had subjected her to experiences akin to hell, and with her family¡¯s help, she had managed to escape. How could she possibly jump back into the fire pit?


    But what Yue Xiaofang didn¡¯t expect was that, once again on her way to the grocery, she was stopped by someone.


    Looking up, she saw it was none other than Qiu Maode, who had sent someone to her door.


    Qiu Maode was very tall, like a small mountain blocking Yue Xiaofang¡¯s way.


    Yue Xiaofang looked up at him, her brows furrowed tightly.


    Yet Qiu Maode, with a rather pleased self-perception, smiled at Yue Xiaofang, ¡°Do you know who I am?¡±


    ¡°I know.¡± Yue Xiaofang took two steps back, ¡°What do you want with me?¡±


    Qiu Maode tilted his head, examining Yue Xiaofang, ¡°Why are you unwilling to marry me?¡±


    Yue Xiaofang answered expressionlessly, ¡°I don¡¯t even know you.¡± She then took another step back.


    But Qiu Maode pressed closer, ¡°It¡¯s not too late to get to know each other now, Yue Xiaofang. I liked you the moment I saw you.¡±

 Chapter 139: 139: Marry Her Back

    Chapter 139: Chapter 139: Marry Her Back


    This remark left Yue Xiaofang numb from the tips of her hair to her heels.


    It wasn¡¯t shyness, it was fear.


    She remembered what Ma Jinbao was like back then.


    When the matchmaker had come to her door, he spouted some nonsense about love at first sight, but then he treated her so horribly afterward.


    With the lesson learned, Yue Xiaofang didn¡¯t say another word, she turned her head and ran.


    Qiu Maode had thought that with his looks, coupled with the words he just spoke, even if a girl didn¡¯t blush to her ears, she wouldn¡¯t bolt like that.


    Yue Xiaofang was still shaken when she got home, almost unable to hold the soy sauce bottle steady in her hand.


    Lin Chunju, her hair wrapped up, was cleaning the beams atop a stool when she saw this and immediately stepped down.


    ¡°What happened?¡±


    ¡°Just now on my way back, I ran into Qiu Maode blocking my path.¡±


    After Yue Xiaofang explained what happened, Lin Chunju waved the feather duster twice in the air.


    ¡°No way, how can such a coincidence happen in this world? He must be waiting for you every day.¡±


    Lin Chunju, with her old hand experience, felt something was off.


    Even though it¡¯s the idle season right now, the new year is coming, and every household has lots to do.


    Where would Qiu Maode find so much free time to squat by the road and wait for her every day? It might be that his family was taking turns to watch and report.


    Before, Lin Chunju only thought they were interested in Yue Xiaofang, but now she had other suspicions.


    If it was truly a coincidence, that would be one thing, but if the entire Qiu Family was watching Xiaofang, it would be fishy.


    Worried about what else might happen, she earnestly cautioned Yue Xiaofang.


    ¡°Take Qingqing with you when you go out these next few days to prevent Qiu Maode from ambushing you again.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang looked puzzled, ¡°Huh?¡±


    How did taking Qingqing along have anything to do with Qiu Maode blocking her way again?


    Knowing that she didn¡¯t understand, Lin Chunju had to explain differently.


    ¡°Think about it, if he¡¯s always running into you, wouldn¡¯t that set tongues wagging in the village? Having a child with you is much more convenient, even if you two talk, with Qingqing there, people can¡¯t gossip about what you two might be doing in private.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang nodded, half understanding, ¡°Anyway, I¡¯ll listen to Mom.¡±


    Only then did Lin Chunju feel satisfied.


    Meanwhile, Qiu Maode returned to the Qiu Family, dejected. As soon as he entered, he heard a cacophony of voices.


    ¡°How¡¯d it go? Did Yue Xiaofang agree?¡±


    ¡°What did you say to her? Can she marry in quickly?¡±


    ¡°It would be best to hold the wedding right after the New Year. I¡¯ve already talked to the Liu Family, and once we get the money, we¡¯ll sign the contract and take over their land.¡±


    The Qiu household was noisy, and Qiu Maode felt like his head was about to explode.


    ¡°Enough, stop talking. Yue Xiaofang ran at the sight of me, she has no intention of marrying in,¡± he said.


    As soon as he spoke, there was a brief pause but then the voices grew even louder.


    ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t a woman who has been divorced not be willing?¡±


    ¡°If it weren¡¯t for her being able to make money with her skills, our family wouldn¡¯t consider letting someone like her marry in.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s with all the airs from a worn-out shoe? Has the Yue family become wealthy, and she¡¯s gotten too proud?¡±


    Qiu Maode¡¯s mother took her eldest son aside, ¡°Maode, tell your mother what¡¯s going on. Is Yue Xiaofang deliberately posing to put on airs?¡±


    Qiu Maode frustratedly ran his fingers through his hair, ¡°No, it seems like she really dislikes me.¡±


    Qiu Hong¡¯an¡¯s wrinkled face immediately showed his displeasure, ¡°Tch, she thinks she¡¯s worthy?¡±


    It was one thing for the village girls to not want to marry into their family, but what reason did a woman of Yue Xiaofang¡¯s status have to be unwilling?


    A man wanting her should be cause for her to light incense in gratitude.


    ¡°Forget it, Dad. Should we figure out another way to ask relatives for some money?¡±


    Qiu Hong¡¯an was unhappy, ¡°Borrowing money needs to be repaid. I think we need to find a way to bring Yue Xiaofang into our home.¡±


    ¡°I heard that when she got married off before, the Lin widow gave quite a dowry. Now that she¡¯s marrying for the second time and the Yue family is doing well, they¡¯ll double the money at least.¡±


    Thinking of this, he issued a firm order, ¡°No matter what means we use, we have to get Yue Xiaofang into our house.¡±

 Chapter 140: 140: If Gentleness Doesnt Work, Use Force

    Chapter 140: Chapter 140: If Gentleness Doesn¡¯t Work, Use Force


    To talk about how the Qiu Family came to set their sights on Yue Xiaofang, we have to start with the incident that happened last time.


    When the Qiu Family first heard about the matter, although they thought Yue Xiaofang was to the point of bumping into pillars, and with the divine warning from the heavens, they were certain she was innocent.


    But they still cursed a few times at home about how a woman had been divorced and sent home, still couldn¡¯t stay out of trouble, and guessed that no man would dare to marry her in the future.


    Later, the Yue Family sought to prove their innocence by having Elder Zhang bring out the contract for everyone to look over.


    Only then did the Qiu Family realize that Yue Xiaofang¡¯s tailoring skills could earn so much money.


    As their kids grew older and the Qiu Family wanted to rent more land, they were begging and borrowing money from everyone.


    But the relatives, adhering to the principle of rescuing the needy but not the poor, were very reluctant to give money.


    After all, the Qiu Family had too many children; nobody knew when they could get their money back if they loaned it out, so it was basically like throwing money into the water.


    And the Qiu Family¡¯s stinginess was widely known.


    Even their eldest son was of such an age and yet unmarried, isn¡¯t it because the family didn¡¯t even want to pay a dowry?


    Initially, when the Yue Family was poor, they still scraped together a dowry to marry off a daughter, despite going hungry.


    But the Qiu Family always hoped that some girl would be a few sandwiches short of a picnic.


    They hoped that not only would she not ask for money, but she would also bring a dowry and marry into their family to bear children and take care of them all.


    As life in the village improved for others, the Qiu Family¡¯s children grew up unable to afford homes of their own, which made the Qius as anxious as ants on a hot pan.


    It was then that someone suggested, since the Yue Family had money and Yue Xiaofang had money and no one in the village dared to marry her, why not just marry her into their family?


    Old man and lady Qiu pondered it and thought it was a solution.


    Unbeknownst to her, Yue Xiaofang became the Qiu Family¡¯s lifesaver.


    As for who should marry Yue Xiaofang, the brothers in the family pushed the responsibility around until Qiu Hong¡¯an had no choice but to designate his eldest son to make the sacrifice for the family.


    Qiu Maode was not pleased; he was indeed no longer young, but he hoped to find a woman who had not been used by anyone else, not willing to marry Yue Xiaofang, who he saw as secondhand goods.


    Yet, after secretly observing her from his hiding spot, his mind changed.


    Yue Xiaofang was indeed attractive, her hands skilled, wearing clothes she made herself, looking like a city dweller.


    He noticed that most of the Yue Family¡¯s clothes were her work as well, the designs standing out from the rest.


    With his desire inflamed, Qiu Maode immediately had his father contact Dong Cuifen to make a marriage proposal.


    They fully expected that, given Yue Xiaofang¡¯s situation, any man willing to take her would be met with an immediate nod of approval.


    But what they got instead was a refusal, and a categorical one at that.


    This left Qiu Maode extremely displeased.


    Having no other choice, the Qiu Family resorted to constantly spying and deliberately arranged for Qiu Maode to intercept Yue Xiaofang, seeking an audience with her.


    But the outcome was the same.


    Thinking about the way Yue Xiaofang had looked at him just now, Qiu Maode sighed, ¡°I feel like she looks at me the same way she¡¯d look at a rat, with complete disgust in her heart. She won¡¯t agree to marry into the family.¡±


    Seeing his dispirited manner, Qiu Hong¡¯an kicked Qiu Maode, ¡°If Yue Xiaofang doesn¡¯t marry into the family, what about your brothers? How will we lease the land? The Yue Family can rise up, so why must our Qiu Family remain poor forever?¡±


    His brothers also complained one after another.


    ¡°Brother, try again, okay? I¡¯m depending on you to bring a sister-in-law home to earn some money, so I too can afford a wife.¡±


    ¡°Let Dong Cuifen go and talk nicely again. You might be on the older side, brother, but older men can be more caring.¡±


    ¡°Yue Xiaofang must be shy. Chasing a girl requires persistent wooing.¡±


    Qiu Maode blocked his ears, feeling that seeing her a few more times would change nothing; Yue Xiaofang simply wasn¡¯t interested in him.


    Qiu Maode¡¯s mother suddenly spoke up, ¡°If soft approaches don¡¯t work, let¡¯s be more forceful.¡±


    Qiu Maode was startled, ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Qiu Hong¡¯an seemed to have an epiphany and sneered, ¡°Women, they¡¯re all the same. Find a way to force yourself on her, and what choice will she have left then?¡±

 Chapter 141: 141: Friend Visits

    Chapter 141: Chapter 141: Friend Visits


    After hearing his parents¡¯ words, Qiu Maode was shocked.


    ¡°The authorities will arrest us for this.¡±


    Although he was uneducated, he knew this was illegal.


    His mother, frustrated with his lack of understanding, smacked him on the head.


    ¡°You should realize that in circumstances like this, a woman can only grit her teeth and swallow her losses. She¡¯ll just have to listen to you obediently. Who would she dare call the police?¡±


    Yet, Qiu Maode was still frightened.


    Though he was the eldest at home, he was always timid and obedient to his parents.


    Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have been assigned the task of marrying Yue Xiaofang.


    ¡°The Yue Family has three brothers, and they are united. If they find out, they will beat me to death!¡±


    Qiu Hong¡¯an¡¯s frown was so deep it could have trapped a fly. He even wondered if his son¡¯s head was made of solid elm, why couldn¡¯t he understand?


    ¡°Yue Xiaofang is damaged goods anyway. Even if something really happened between you two, others might think you¡¯re the one at a loss.¡±


    ¡°Exactly!¡± the family members chimed in to bolster Qiu Maode¡¯s courage.


    ¡°If her brothers come looking, just say she seduced you. Make a big fuss about it; then she can only marry you.¡±


    ¡°You aren¡¯t married yet while Yue Xiaofang has already been with a man. People will probably blame her, not you.¡±


    ¡°She might not dare to speak out. Otherwise, she would be drowned in spit. Be brave, and once you marry her, our family won¡¯t have to be so poor.¡±


    ¡°Brother, our whole family is counting on you now!¡±


    At home, Qiu Maode was often overlooked, and his mother doted on his younger brother instead. Otherwise, they would have found him a proper wife by now.


    For the first time, his family entrusted him with a major responsibility.


    At last, Qiu Maode decided to risk it. After all, it wasn¡¯t Yue Xiaofang¡¯s first time. By doing this, he could provide her a home, which was honorable enough towards the Yue Family.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll think of a way.¡±


    Qiu Hong¡¯an looked at him meaningfully, ¡°Big brother, you¡¯re the hope of our entire family.¡±


    On the other side, Yue Xiaofang had been frightened by the incident for several days.


    Later on, she asked Yue Jiannan to accompany her to the grocery store.


    Fortunately, Qiu Maode hadn¡¯t shown up again, which somewhat reassured Yue Xiaofang. She also wondered if she and her mother were overthinking things.


    Qiu Maode might just be desperate for a wife due to his age; if it weren¡¯t her, it would be someone else.


    As the end of the year neared, there were too many miscellaneous things to handle.


    Yue Xiaofang was also thinking about making a few pairs of new shoes for the kids at home and gradually forgot about this person.


    That afternoon, Yue Jianxi and Yue Jiandong went out to purchase New Year goods, and Yue Jiannan went to the fish pond to read.


    The women were either hanging clothes or fiddling with the pickle jars in the kitchen.


    While Yue Xiaofang was working, she heard Zhang Ying calling out in the yard.


    ¡°Xiaofang, someone is looking for you.¡±


    Having just finished sewing, Yue Xiaofang bit off the thread with her teeth and walked out.


    There, she saw a familiar face she had not seen in a long time.


    ¡°Xiaoxue, why are you here to see me?¡±


    Yue Xiaofang was delighted and hugged the girl standing in the yard.


    Guo Xue jokingly pinched her nose, ¡°You have the nerve to ask, you came back to the village, and you didn¡¯t come to see me.¡±


    Before Yue Xiaofang got married, the two were pretty close, but having married into families far apart, their youthful friendship had faded.


    Yue Xiaofang, feeling somewhat embarrassed, rubbed her nose, ¡°You know, thinking that you were married, it seemed improper to visit you at your in-laws¡¯ place.¡±


    Lowering her head, she added, ¡°Besides, with my status now, coming to see you might have caused you trouble.¡±


    Guo Xue glared at her, ¡°What do you take me for? From now on, just come and see me whenever you like; my mother-in-law won¡¯t say anything.¡±


    Guo Xue had become pregnant shortly after her marriage and successfully gave birth to a healthy baby boy, which solidified her place at her in-laws¡¯, giving her the confidence to make such assertions.


    Listenting to Guo Xue, Yue Xiaofang also felt relieved, and the two laughed and joked for a while.


    Zhang Ying, while beating a quilt, called out to them.


    ¡°Don¡¯t just stand there chatting in the yard; come inside. Let Xiaoxue try the pastries that came back yesterday.¡±


    However, Guo Xue waved her hand, a mischievous smile on her face, ¡°I actually came to take Xiaofang out for a stroll.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang was stunned, ¡°Go out for what?¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you bored of being cooped up at home every day? We haven¡¯t seen each other in a long while; let¡¯s take a walk together. I¡¯ve never seen your fish pond.¡±


    After thinking it over, Yue Xiaofang nodded in agreement.


    ¡°Alright!¡±

 Chapter 142: 142 Guo Xues Thoughts

    Chapter 142: Chapter 142 Guo Xue¡¯s Thoughts


    Guo Xue smiled with anticipation, ready to give Yue Xiaofang a surprise later.


    She had always had a good relationship with Yue Xiaofang and even cried for a while when she heard about her ordeal.


    Every time her own life went smoothly, she would think of Yue Xiaofang and wonder what she would do in the future.


    Although her family seemed to treat her well, these days a woman still needed a man to get by.


    Otherwise, when the time came, her mother might keep her, but her sisters-in-law would surely disdain Yue Xiaofang.


    So when Qiu Maode asked for her help to invite Xiaofang out, Guo Xue agreed immediately.


    According to Qiu Maode, Xiaofang was hard-working, capable, and pretty despite having been married before; his whole family genuinely liked Xiaofang.


    Qiu Maode said he was introverted and felt too shy to ask Xiaofang out himself.


    He could only ask Guo Xue to do this favor.


    Seeing Qiu Maode stumbling over his words, Guo Xue thought that he probably was as shy as he claimed to be.


    Although he was a bit old, he seemed to truly like Xiaofang and wouldn¡¯t mind her past, making him a suitable match.


    Zhang Ying, hearing the two were going out, didn¡¯t forget to remind them, ¡°Xiaofang, put on your hat and gloves. It¡¯s cold now; don¡¯t catch a cold.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang crisply agreed, bundling up completely before she reached the door, only to turn back again.


    Guo Xue asked her anxiously, ¡°What have you forgotten now?¡±


    Yue Xiaofang carried Yue Qingqing out from the kitchen.


    Qingqing had just been eyeing the kimchi with desire and was suddenly taken out, looking a bit dazed.


    Seeing this, Guo Xue exclaimed with envy, wishing she could take the child home with her.


    ¡°Is this your big brother¡¯s child? I saw her once from afar before, but I didn¡¯t realize she was even more beautiful than they said.¡±


    She then asked, puzzled, ¡°Why are you bringing a child with you when you¡¯re going out?¡±


    Yue Xiaofang, embarrassed to say it was her mother¡¯s order, vaguely replied, ¡°The child likes going out, and the weather is clear today, so I¡¯m taking her for a walk.¡±


    Yue Qingqing licked her lips, just about to say something.


    Suddenly, she looked up, noticed the expression on Yue Xiaofang¡¯s face, and nodded promptly.


    ¡°Auntie, going out to play.¡±


    She stretched out her arms to hug Yue Xiaofang¡¯s neck, planting a kiss with a kimchi flavor on her face.


    It was both milky and sweet.


    Guo Xue couldn¡¯t take her eyes away, feeling an immense craving.


    ¡°It¡¯s such a pity we can only have one child now. Having a little girl like her would be so heartwarming.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang loved Yue Qingqing as her own daughter and was happier to hear others compliment her than if they had praised herself.


    She hoisted the child up on her arm to make sure Qingqing was more secure.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go, we can leave now.¡±


    Zhang Ying just watched them with a warm smile, reminding Xiaofang not to forget to come back before dinner.


    Once outside, Guo Xue still marveled, ¡°Your sister-in-law seems pretty good to you.¡±


    Mentioning this made Yue Xiaofang¡¯s face break into an unstoppable smile.


    ¡°Everyone at home treats me well. My two sisters-in-law care for me even more than if I were their real sister.¡±


    Guo Xue marveled in amazement. Living under the same roof, it was normal to have friction, as even the upper lip still bumps into the lower lip at times.


    The harmony in the Yue Family was indeed rare. Could it be because they used to be poor and had to stick together to strive outward?


    Thinking various thoughts, Guo Xue still couldn¡¯t help asking, ¡°But even if your sisters-in-law are good to you, after all, there¡¯s a difference. Haven¡¯t you ever thought of getting remarried?¡±


    Yue Xiaofang¡¯s expression grew dim, ¡°I really haven¡¯t thought about it; I feel my life is quite good as it is.¡±


    Seeing her expression, Guo Xue thought Yue Xiaofang was just pretending to be strong and not wanting to show weakness.


    In her heart, she even felt a bit noble thinking that, once she made the match later, Xiaofang would surely have to thank her.


    Yue Xiaofang hadn¡¯t seen Guo Xue for a long time and wasn¡¯t keen on discussing this topic any further.


    The two quickly started reminiscing about old times.


    As Yue Xiaofang walked with Guo Xue, she talked without paying attention to the path beneath her feet and didn¡¯t notice that they were straying farther and farther off course.

 Chapter 143: 143 Qiu Maode Appears

    Chapter 143: Chapter 143 Qiu Maode Appears


    The two of them walked for who knew how long before Yue Xiaofang realized they had entered a forest.


    Because of the winter, the surrounding trees were all bare, looking stark naked.


    The ground was covered with a layer of snow that hadn¡¯t melted, and sometimes, stepping on it would crunch dry branches underneath.


    There was a snapping sound, startling one unexpectedly.


    Yue Xiaofang, holding onto her precious child, walked for a bit and felt that something was not right.


    ¡°Xiaoxue, why did we come here?¡±


    Guo Xue acted mysterious, ¡°This is pretty close to your family¡¯s fish pond, going through here, we can just see the ¡®Cornucopia¡¯ the villagers talk about.¡±


    But there was clearly an easier way to go to the fish pond, why take this path?


    Yue Xiaofang was somewhat puzzled, but trusting Guo Xue, she didn¡¯t voice her questions.


    She just thought that maybe they were so engrossed in their conversation that they didn¡¯t notice taking a wrong turn.


    A while later, Guo Xue, with her sharp eyes, saw Qiu Maode sticking his head out from behind a large tree not far away.


    ¡°Oh no...¡±


    Hearing her companion¡¯s voice, Yue Xiaofang hurriedly asked, ¡°Xiaoxue, what¡¯s wrong with you?¡±


    ¡°My stomach hurts so much, I must have eaten something bad this morning.¡±


    Guo Xue clutched her stomach, her expression one of extreme pain.


    Yue Xiaofang got scared, ¡°I¡¯ll take you to the infirmary right now, just bear with it.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no time, I... I need to find a place to ease myself.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang was still puzzled even after Guo Xue ran off in a hurry.


    She had a stomachache, so why was she running so fast?


    Crack...


    The sound of breaking branches made Yue Xiaofang turn around abruptly.


    Qiu Maode¡¯s tall figure cast a long shadow on the snowy ground.


    In an instant, Yue Xiaofang seemed to understand something but couldn¡¯t bring herself to believe that her good friend would abandon her here.


    Qiu Maode stared at Yue Xiaofang, coming closer step by step.


    Those bloodshot eyes made Yue Xiaofang retreat continuously.


    ¡°What do you want? Don¡¯t... don¡¯t come any closer.¡±


    Qiu Maode¡¯s Adam¡¯s apple bobbed up and down as he gulped several times before speaking.


    ¡°Yue Xiaofang, I indeed wanted to marry you smoothly into my family, but you just wouldn¡¯t listen, so I have to use this method.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang, dragging Qingqing along, turned and ran, while Qiu Maode followed behind leisurely.


    Like a hunter who enjoys teasing his prey.


    ¡°If you come any closer, I¡¯ll scream,¡± Yue Xiaofang said with a trembling voice, suddenly tripping over a tree root and falling to the ground.


    She only had time to let go of Yue Qingqing¡¯s hand before rolling on the ground.


    Her scarf lay scattered beside her, and her hair was now disheveled.


    Qiu Maode stared at Yue Xiaofang¡¯s neckline, laughing in a somewhat lewd manner.


    ¡°Go ahead and scream. If someone comes, I¡¯ll just say you seduced me, and then you¡¯ll have to marry me whether you like it or not,¡± he said.


    Yue Xiaofang bit her lower lip so hard that it almost drew blood.


    What Qiu Maode was saying was right.


    If someone really did come, they¡¯d likely think she was shameless, that¡¯s just the way the world worked.


    Thinking this, a ferocious light flashed in Yue Xiaofang¡¯s eyes, as if she had made some sort of decision.


    Qiu Maode was oblivious to her determination; he thought Yue Xiaofang was like meat on his chopping board.


    His gaze became more lecherous.


    ¡°Don¡¯t think too highly of yourself; in the end, you¡¯re someone who¡¯s been played with. When you think about it, you¡¯re the one who¡¯s getting the better deal,¡± he said.


    ¡°Being away from your mother¡¯s home for so long, don¡¯t you feel lonely? Maybe after a while, you¡¯ll even thank me,¡± he added.


    Yue Xiaofang¡¯s lips quivered, ¡°Qingqing, run.¡±


    She didn¡¯t want Qingqing to witness what was about to happen.


    Yue Qingqing sat on the ground, forming a spell with her hands.


    Seeing her not moving, Yue Xiaofang¡¯s voice became more and more desperate, ¡°Qingqing, be good! Run! Quick!¡±


    Only when she saw a wisp of black mist gradually take form in the air and coil around Qiu Maode did Yue Qingqing finally let go and truly turned to flee.


    Qiu Maode didn¡¯t bother with the child running into the distance; he just kept walking closer to Yue Xiaofang.


    Yue Xiaofang, with her hands behind her back, nervously felt around.


    She finally gripped a sharp stone buried underneath the snow.


    Qiu Maode finally reached her, bending over to look at Yue Xiaofang from a superior position.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, once you marry into the family, as long as you obediently listen and work hard to earn money, we won¡¯t treat you badly,¡± he said.


    As he spoke, he unbuttoned his collar and leaned in closer.


    His thick lips were about to press onto Yue Xiaofang¡¯s cheek.


    With resolve flashing in her eyes, Yue Xiaofang raised the stone where Qiu Maode couldn¡¯t see and smashed it down heavily.

 Chapter 144: 144 Bullying Decent Men and Women

    Chapter 144: Chapter 144 Bullying Decent Men and Women


    The stone¡¯s sharp edges almost cut Yue Xiaofang¡¯s hand.


    Yue Xiaofang threw the stone down with all her might.


    If the blow had been accurate, Qiu Maode would have been left either dead or with his head cracked and bleeding profusely.


    However, at that instant, a loud crash suddenly erupted.


    A large tree not far away broke in half and came crashing down.


    It struck Qiu Maode right in the waist, causing him to howl in pain.


    Yue Xiaofang¡¯s eyes widened, and the stone in her hand loosened and rolled away unconsciously.


    Qiu Maode was pinned down by the tree and couldn¡¯t move; his arms stretched out desperately.


    His fingers pressed into the frozen ground, trying to push himself out.


    Yue Xiaofang seized the opportunity to get up and run away.


    It took quite a while for Qiu Maode to finally crawl out, clutching his waist and barely able to stand.


    His eyes dark and sinister, he stared in the direction Yue Xiaofang had escaped and hobbled after her.


    By the fish pond, Yue Jiannan was squinting, holding a book and reading when suddenly Yue Qingqing burst out from the side.


    ¡°Uncle, something bad happened!¡±


    Yue Jiannan was startled; the book in his hand dropped to the ground.


    ¡°What happened?¡±


    ¡°In the grove, someone is bullying Auntie.¡±


    Yue Jiannan hoisted Yue Qingqing onto his shoulder and started to run.


    He ran so fast that Yue Qingqing hastily grabbed his tuft of hair, using another hand to point him in the right direction.


    ¡°Over there, almost there!¡±


    The grove wasn¡¯t far from the fish pond, and Yue Jiannan quickly arrived at the scene.


    ¡°Sister!¡±


    Yue Jiannan finally found a terrified Yue Xiaofang.


    From beginning to end, Yue Xiaofang hadn¡¯t shed a tear, but at that moment, she could not help but feel her eyes turning red.


    ¡°Third brother... he, he tried to assault me.¡±


    Yue Jiannan rushed forward and punched Qiu Maode in the face.


    With a howl, Qiu Maode fell backward, and his hand, covering his nose, was quickly stained with blood.


    He was taller and stronger than Yue Jiannan, but due to his waist injury, he was utterly powerless to resist.


    Yue Jiannan gave him a vicious beating, and Qiu Maode lay on the ground, unable to get up.


    Yue Xiaofang was no longer as timid as she had been in the past; she walked over and kicked Qiu Maode harshly.


    She even deliberately stamped on him hard below the belt.


    Qiu Maode¡¯s body curled up like a prawn, clutching his groin and screaming in agony.


    Yue Jiannan was startled but still felt unsatisfied.


    He turned around, found a stout stick, and prepared to whip Qiu Maode a few times.


    At that moment, however, Yue Xiaofang became more rational and grabbed her brother.


    ¡°Let it be, hitting him more could lead to trouble, and we could get bitten back by the Qiu family later.¡±


    Yue Jiannan snorted coldly but felt that if he didn¡¯t subdue this man today, he would surely keep troubling his sister in the future.


    A woman¡¯s reputation is priceless, and today, fortunately, the fish pond was close enough for him to arrive quickly. But what if he wasn¡¯t so lucky next time?


    There¡¯s no such thing as a thief being wary for a thousand days.


    Yue Jiannan, after all, was full of cunning ideas, and after a moment of thought, he actually came up with a plan.


    ¡°Sis, go call people over.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang didn¡¯t catch on, ¡°Call people over?¡±


    But if the villagers were called over and found Qiu Maode attempting to assault her, things would definitely become messy.


    There would be all kinds of speculation, and some would undoubtedly accuse Yue Xiaofang of shamelessly seducing him.


    Yue Jiannan insisted, ¡°No worries, just call people, the more the better.¡±


    As he spoke, he took off his coat and tossed it on the ground.


    He then rolled around on the ground a bit.


    He wrinkled his pants and got his hair covered in snow.


    ¡°Help! Help me!¡± Yue Jiannan yelled at the top of his voice.


    ¡°Qiu Maode, this shameless man, tried to assault me, a decent married man.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang: ¡°???¡±


    Qiu Maode: ¡°!!!¡±


    Yue Qingqing: ¡°...¡±

 Chapter 145: 145: No Defense for a Hundred Accusations

    Chapter 145: Chapter 145: No Defense for a Hundred Accusations


    Yue Jiannan screamed as if his life depended on it, his neck strained.


    ¡°Help, someone come quickly!¡±


    ¡°Is anybody there, hurry and save someone!¡±


    Qiu Maode was so frightened he wanted to run away.


    But as he stood up, Yue Jiannan kicked him down and continued to shout.


    ¡°Help!¡±


    Qiu Maode truly felt he was the one who should be crying for help.


    Xiaofang finally understood what was happening and held onto Qingqing, rushing to call for help.


    When the villagers heard there was trouble in the small woods, they hurriedly dropped what they were doing and rushed over.


    Most of them were there to watch the commotion.


    But when they saw Yue Jiannan, his sweater half pulled off, screaming and accusing Qiu Maode, they were utterly shocked.


    Yue Jiannan sniffled, his face the picture of grievance, clinging tightly to the hem of his sweater.


    ¡°I was sitting well by the fish pond when Qiu Maode suddenly came from behind and dragged me here.¡±


    ¡°I cursed him for being mad, but he said he had liked me for a long time, and today he must have me.¡±


    Yue Jiannan bit his lower lip, looking as pitiful as one could be.


    ¡°Fellow villagers, to think there are such men in the world, he... he actually tried to lay hands on me.¡±


    Qiu Maode almost spat out a mouthful of blood, ¡°You¡¯re talking nonsense!¡±


    Yue Jiannan stomped his foot, kicking up a patch of snow.


    ¡°I¡¯m talking nonsense? Then explain, with the New Year approaching, why aren¡¯t you at home? Why come to my side of the fish pond?¡±


    Qiu Maode wanted to say that he wasn¡¯t coming to the fish pond but instead intended to lure Xiaofang into this piece of woods.


    It had always been deserted here, convenient for making a move.


    But he couldn¡¯t utter a word of this, his lips trembling, unable to even let out a fart.


    Seeing his state, the villagers were dumbfounded.


    ¡°Never would have thought Qiu Maode was like this, totally disgusting, even thinking about doing that to a man...¡±


    ¡°Just saying, why wouldn¡¯t he marry at his age, turns out he has such a preference, tsk tsk!¡±


    Another man, his face dotted with pockmarks, cursed confidently, ¡°I saw it coming. The way Qiu Maode used to look at me was off. Only now do I understand why.¡±


    Qiu Maode was so angry he was close to going mad, ¡°No, it¡¯s not like that, I was after Yue Xiaofang...¡±


    Yue Jiannan cut him off and gave him a fierce kick.


    ¡°Shut up, you want to use my sister as a shield at this time? Are you even a man? Since you dared to bully me, why don¡¯t you dare to admit it now!¡±


    ¡°Who was it that kept saying he liked me just a moment ago, pah!¡±


    Yue Jiannan fully played the drama king, his performance so vivid that those who were still somewhat doubtful immediately believed him.


    ¡°People these days, really! Qiu Maode, don¡¯t use Yue Xiaofang as your excuse. Could Xiaofang beat you up like this? It¡¯s obviously been done by a man.¡±


    ¡°This is a disgrace to the Qiu family, sigh, how could our village produce such a disgusting creature?¡±


    Qiu Maode was at a loss for words and, overwhelmed with frustration, fainted.


    Yue Jiannan saw this and immediately proclaimed loudly, ¡°See, you couldn¡¯t take it when everyone hit the nail on the head, could you?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s lucky my sister happened to bring Qingqing by the fish pond and noticed something was wrong, calling people over, or who knows what might have happened to me today!¡±


    He spoke with such certainty that the others also thought Qiu Maode must be feigning unconsciousness out of guilt.


    The situation was absurd yet laughable.


    The onlookers held back their laughter while comforting Yue Jiannan.


    ¡°Lucky that nothing serious happened, we¡¯ll all vouch for you, your innocence is still intact.¡±


    Yue Jiannan nodded vigorously, ¡°Exactly, I still need to find a wife in the future, I¡¯m not like Qiu Maode.¡±


    Then someone spoke to Xiaofang, ¡°Quick, take your brother home, the poor boy must have been scared witless by all this.¡±


    Upon closer examination, Yue Jiannan wasn¡¯t even of age yet, his appearance youthful and handsome.


    Qiu Maode, by comparison, was nearly twice Jiannan¡¯s age and had never found a woman. Perhaps this is what he was into.


    Everyone was amazed, while in full view of all, Xiaofang helped the ¡®victim¡¯ Jiannan slowly walk back home.


    Qiu Maode lay silent in the snow, unattended.


    Not one man from the village dared to help him, fearing their own ¡°virtue¡± might be tainted by him.

 Chapter 146: 146: Ultimately Relying on Men?

    Chapter 146: Chapter 146: Ultimately Relying on Men?


    Yue Xiaofang supported Yue Jiannan as they headed home.


    Along the way, Yue Jiannan¡¯s facial expressions continuously shifted among wanting to cry but having no tears, being at a loss for words, feeling utterly aggrieved, and attaining sudden enlightenment.


    Those who saw him couldn¡¯t help but ask what had happened.


    Before Yue Jiannan could even open his mouth, some onlookers vividly explained the cause.


    The rest then looked at Yue Jiannan with a mix of amusement and sympathy.


    ¡°I really didn¡¯t expect someone like that to come from the Qiu Family, I really feel sorry for you.¡±


    ¡°Ah, such a fine young man, and he was almost ruined.¡±


    In this era, if a woman encountered such an incident, she might end up being the one scrutinized and criticized by everyone, even if she was the victim.


    The next day, she might very well end up hanging from a beam.


    But when a man encounters such an event, everyone just finds it absurd.


    Even then, looking at Yue Jiannan, people started to think he had strikingly handsome features ¡ª no wonder someone took a fancy to him.


    Not until they reached the courtyard at home and Yue Jiannan shut the door did he quickly put on his coat and shook it off.


    ¡°I¡¯m freezing to death, it¡¯s so cold out.¡±


    Zhang Ying was startled, ¡°It¡¯s so cold, why didn¡¯t you wear your coat?¡±


    Yue Jiannan snorted in laughter, ¡°Wasn¡¯t it just to let others see how aggrieved I was?¡±


    Zhang Ying and Wang Xiaoni immediately closed in.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Third Brother, who bullied you?¡±


    Yue Xiaofang quickly stepped inside to pour water for her brother, ¡°It¡¯s me who encountered something.¡±


    She then recounted the day¡¯s events, still shaking from the close call, ¡°Thank goodness mom told me not to forget to bring Qingqing along, she really helped a lot. If Qingqing hadn¡¯t called Third Brother, I don¡¯t know how today would have ended.¡±


    Zhang Ying and Wang Xiaoni both felt fright after hearing it.


    Yue Xiaofang hugged Qingqing and smothered her with kisses.


    ¡°Qingqing, what would your aunt have done without you.¡±


    Yue Qingqing giggled and nestled into Yue Xiaofang¡¯s embrace.


    Yue Jiannan held a porcelain cup to warm his hands, swishing the hot water in his mouth before finally swallowing it.


    It took him a while to gather himself.


    ¡°After this incident, not to mention the Qiu Family needing just a few words, even if they had a hundred mouths, they couldn¡¯t clear this up. I wonder how they¡¯ll ever find daughters-in-law in the future.¡±


    Having distanced herself from her fear, Yue Xiaofang thought back to her brother¡¯s antics and couldn¡¯t help but laugh, holding her belly.


    ¡°What¡¯s going through your mind, how could you even think of such a method? I was so angry initially, but I nearly burst into laughter watching you curse that beast in a hushed voice.¡±


    Yue Jiannan gave her a resentful glance, ¡°For your sake, sister, I was even ready to give up my chastity, so stop laughing.¡±


    He cared about his dignity too, okay?


    Wang Xiaoni couldn¡¯t contain her laughter either, ¡°What chastity could a man possibly have, don¡¯t worry, it definitely won¡¯t affect your chances of finding a wife. Maybe the village girls will think your charm is a great draw and be even more willing to marry you.¡±


    Looking at the women laughing together in the courtyard, Yue Jiannan heaved a sigh to the sky and dejectedly entered the house.


    Forget it, mother will surely understand his noble actions when she returns.


    But when Lin Chunju came back, she also laughed.


    She laughed so hard she couldn¡¯t straighten her back.


    ¡°Oh my, Third Brother, you really had it tough.¡±


    The laughter from his older brothers was even louder, each trying to outdo the other.


    Yue Jiannan completely despaired of this world.


    He buried his head in his bowl, deciding to convert his sorrow into appetite.


    After dinner, Guo Xue came to the Yue Family.


    She called Yue Xiaofang out, looking puzzled, ¡°Xiaofang, what¡¯s going on here?¡±


    How could such a ridiculous rumor about Qiu Maode wanting to assault Yue Jiannan spread in the village?


    Yue Xiaofang furrowed her brows and went through the events briefly.


    Guo Xue was speechless for a long while.


    ¡°Xiaoxue, if you really consider me a friend, don¡¯t do things like this anymore.¡±


    Guo Xue murmured to herself, ¡°But... but all I did was out of kindness.¡±


    ¡°But everyone thinks differently, and we all choose different paths. You are just forcing your own ideas onto me.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t believe a woman has to rely on a man to survive, your so-called kindness and goodness could become a knife in someone else¡¯s hands.¡±


    Guo Xue¡¯s complexion turned ugly, and after a long time, she finally spoke, ¡°Xiaofang, how could you say such things, you¡¯ve changed.¡±


    What was her fault? Everything she did was meant to secure Yue Xiaofang¡¯s future.


    Despite the current warmth and closeness with her family, once she stayed long enough, things would surely not remain the same.


    She was thinking about Yue Xiaofang¡¯s future life, believing that marrying a man and having a son to lead a harmonious life was the ultimate goal, wasn¡¯t it?


    Yue Xiaofang studied this once-close friend, slowly shook her head, and turned to go inside.


    She had once thought the same way, but reality had slapped her hard in the face.


    The friendship of their younger years had eventually crumbled in the wind as their circumstances changed.


    Hopefully, Guo Xue would one day understand that in this world, only relying on oneself is the most dependable option.

 Chapter 147: 147 Introducing a Partner to the Third Child

    Chapter 147: Chapter 147 Introducing a Partner to the Third Child


    That day, Qiu Maode was carried back by the Qiu family members who received the news.


    The men in the village didn¡¯t dare get involved in this matter.


    They suddenly all became like women from the feudal era, as if merely touching the hem of Qiu Maode¡¯s clothes would lead to being fancied by him.


    The next thing they knew, they themselves might be the ones dragged into the groves.


    There was no need for the Yue family to retaliate against the Qiu family.


    As long as Yue Jiannan colorfully recounted the day¡¯s events in public, Qiu Maode would be metaphorically whipped again and again.


    In just a short span of two or three days, people in the village would avoid the Qiu family whenever they saw them.


    Some even speculated that since none of the Qiu brothers had married, perhaps they all shared that ¡°problem¡±.


    Who would dare to marry their daughter into the Qiu family now? That would be asking for trouble.


    Qiu Maode, having failed in his endeavor, ironically became a hot topic in the village.


    The Qiu family was furious, yet they didn¡¯t even dare to show their faces.


    The entire family was now completely isolated by the villagers.


    Whenever the village women saw them, they would spit contemptuously and curse the family for not knowing shame, for trying to drag men into the groves in broad daylight.


    The reaction from the village men was even more severe, brushing off their sleeves as if they had touched something dirty whenever the Qiu family members looked at them twice.


    They would also curse fiercely, ¡°Stop staring, or I¡¯ll punch you,¡± as if afraid of becoming the Qiu family¡¯s next target, using this method to assert their innocence.


    Dong Cuifen made a special trip to apologize, holding Lin Chunju¡¯s hand and not letting go.


    ¡°Sister Lin, it¡¯s my fault for not seeing Qiu Maode for who he was. I never anticipated he could be so disgusting, and I almost pushed your daughter into disaster.¡±


    Now, the village people¡¯s attributions towards the Qiu family grew more intense.


    Many men firmly stated that Qiu Maode had shown an interest in them before.


    But although they boasted looks comparable to Pan An, that was not their cup of tea, and so they had righteously rejected Qiu Maode.


    Thus, even Dong Cuifen suspected that Qiu Maode¡¯s initial proposals were actually a ruse to marry Yue Xiaofang so he could openly get close to Yue Jiannan.


    Lin Chunju, in turn, comforted her, ¡°Ah, you can¡¯t be blamed. We also didn¡¯t know he was like that in the beginning.¡±


    As Dong Cuifen listened to her, she felt even more guilt-ridden, ¡°Ah, I botched Xiaofang¡¯s situation, but don¡¯t worry, I will definitely make sure to arrange Jiannan¡¯s matter beautifully. After all, he¡¯s been wronged, and I will surely compensate him well.¡±


    The wronged Yue Jiannan stood by, taking the opportunity to sigh.


    The family members, struggling to contain their laughter, watched his performance while Lin Chunju earnestly patted Dong Cuifen¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Sister Dong, Jiannan¡¯s lifelong happiness is now entrusted to you.¡±


    Dong Cuifen agreed wholeheartedly and left.


    In fact, the Yue family hadn¡¯t taken the matter to heart since Yue Jiannan really wasn¡¯t that old after all, and he could still have his fun for a couple more years.


    But to their surprise, Dong Cuifen took the matter very seriously, proposing several potential suitors.


    The one to conclude the list was actually the daughter of a wealthy villager¡ªYu Yaxian.


    The Yu family was considered wealthy in the village, owning over forty acres of land, and they had to pay for laborers during the busy farming seasons every year.


    With only one son and one daughter, both were brought up in affluence.


    They were the envy of Yue Jiannan since he was young.


    Yu Yaxian, although a girl, was also pampered by her parents.


    Her name was uniquely selected by someone paid by the family, unlike those of others.


    Lin Chunju had not expected that Dong Cuifen could pull off such a connection.


    Dong Cuifen felt honored, ¡°Yu Yaxian said she had seen Jiannan and thought he was not bad, so she agreed to meet him once.¡±


    Lin Chunju nodded eagerly, ¡°This is an opportunity beyond our wildest dreams. I¡¯ll go ask for Jiannan¡¯s opinion right away.¡±


    ¡°If you think it could work, let¡¯s set the meeting for the 28th day of the Lunar New Year at the Yue family home. We¡¯ll treat it as a normal village visit, so that whether it works out or not, it won¡¯t harm the youngsters¡¯ pride.¡±


    Lin Chunju thought the suggestion was good, ¡°Alright, you¡¯ve truly thought this through.¡±


    And so, Comrade Yue Jiannan¡¯s first matchmaking meeting commenced.

 Chapter 148: 148 Blind Date Begins

    Chapter 148: Chapter 148 Blind Date Begins


    On the twenty-eighth of the twelfth lunar month, Yue Jiannan was roused from bed by his eldest brother before dawn.


    He put on the new clothes Yue Xiaofang had prepared especially for the New Year.


    The whole family then watched as he washed and groomed.


    Yue Jiannan¡¯s back tingled under their scrutiny.


    He dared not carelessly wipe his face with a towel as he usually did, but reluctantly scrubbed it over and over again.


    Lin Chunju, with a stern face, dragged him to the yard for inspection.


    Only when she was sure he wasn¡¯t yawning and shedding dandruff like usual did she nod in approval.


    Just as Yue Jiannan breathed a sigh of relief, his eldest brother came over with a long canister, shaking it up and down.


    ¡°What¡¯s this?¡±


    ¡°When I delivered goods to the city, I noticed a lot of young men putting this on their hair, so I bought a can for you yesterday.¡±


    Yue Jiannan looked down, only to hear a hissing sound.


    A mass of foam-like substance was sprayed onto his head.


    His hair was slicked back and soon hardened.


    Yue Jiandong then handed him a pair of leather shoes, ¡°These are also new, made of real leather, you should be careful not to scuff them.¡±


    For this blind date, the Yue family had indeed spent a fair amount of money.


    But it was the same for every household in Daye Village; after all, it was a matter of utmost importance in one¡¯s life and couldn¡¯t be taken lightly.


    There were also many who would borrow shoes and clothes from their neighbors to look presentable for a blind date.


    After being decked out from head to toe, Yue Jiannan nervously accepted the scrutiny from his entire family.


    ¡°Does it... look okay?¡±


    Yue Jianxi, seeing his brother¡¯s anxious appearance, couldn¡¯t help but smirk.


    You rascal who¡¯s always so overconfident, finally meets his match today.


    However, the women were all seriously sizing him up.


    Zhang Ying examined him from head to toe, ¡°I still feel like something¡¯s missing.¡±


    Wang Xiaoni clapped her hands, ¡°His hair doesn¡¯t seem shiny enough, perhaps add some scented oil?¡±


    Zhang Ying immediately went to the kitchen, ¡°Right, right, I¡¯ll go get it.¡±


    Yue Jiannan hastily interjected, ¡°Let¡¯s not, I feel like even a fly would break its legs if it landed on my hair now.¡±


    But the others didn¡¯t care and dabbed a bit of oil onto his hair with their fingers.


    His hair looked as if it could reflect light.


    It truly matched the aesthetic of the era.


    In any case, people on that black-and-white TV at the village chief¡¯s house often sported such hairstyles.


    Yue Jiannan felt uncomfortable from head to toe, but the family seemed quite pleased with his appearance.


    ¡°Not bad, what a handsome young man.¡±


    ¡°Our third son has inherited his mother¡¯s brows and eyes, very attractive!¡±


    Upon hearing this, Yue Jiannan couldn¡¯t help but straighten his back.


    But before he could show off, the Yue family¡¯s attention shifted again.


    ¡°Is everything inside the house cleaned? Wipe the table one more time.¡±


    ¡°Is the ground in front of the door swept? Sprinkle some water on it, the wind is a bit strong today, don¡¯t want any dust kicking up.¡±


    Yue Jiannan, crouched in a corner drawing circles, was completely forgotten by the family.


    And so, amidst great anticipation, the Yu family finally arrived with Yu Yaxian entering the outer courtyard.


    Yue Qingqing and Yue Xingxing peeked out the window.


    Yue Xingxing asked with innocent excitement, ¡°Is my little uncle going to get a bride, can we eat delicious food now?¡±


    Her impression of weddings was largely focused on the plates of braised pork knuckles served at the banquet.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±


    Yue Qingqing craned her neck and finally caught sight of the other main character of this blind date.


    Yu Yaxian had clearly dressed up for the occasion.


    She wore a long skirt in fashion at the time, and her shiny black hair was braided into two plaits resting alongside her face.


    Upon being welcomed in, she smiled sweetly, a small dimple on one cheek making her look even sweeter.


    Yue Qingqing had a hunch that this was exactly her little uncle¡¯s type, though the aura of the other party was...


    But matchmaking was a matter that depended on both parties involved, and Yue Qingqing knew the saying that it¡¯s better to tear down ten temples than to destroy one marriage.


    As expected, the usually boisterous Yue Jiannan appeared somewhat slow-witted today, staring at Yu Yaxian¡¯s face for a long while without saying a word.


    His cheeks began turning visibly red at a rapid pace.


    Lin Chunju stealthily pinched him, and Yue Jiannan then stutteringingly opened his mouth.


    ¡°Please, come in and have a seat.¡±


    Like a clueless goose, Yu Yaxian, seeing his demeanor, flashed a hint of triumph in her eyes, her smile deepening.


    Yue Jiannan was completely smitten by her dimples at that point.

 Chapter 149: 149: Is This Settled?

    Chapter 149: Chapter 149: Is This Settled?


    Yu Yaxian¡¯s family was welcomed all the way into the house.


    Yu¡¯s mother subtly sized up the Yue Family home, noticing that the outer hall had acquired quite a few new items recently.


    Her face bore a smile, but her eyes seemed indifferent, making it hard to tell whether she was satisfied or not.


    Yu¡¯s father was accompanied by Yue Jiandong, and they casually discussed this year¡¯s harvest and the New Year¡¯s goods prepared by the family.


    Zhang Ying and Wang Xiaoni stood on either side of Yu Yaxian, attentively asking her if she was thirsty or hungry.


    Today, Yu Yaxian¡¯s brother, Yu Siyuan, also came along.


    He knew Yue Jiannan from before, and their conversation was more relaxed, mainly revolving around Yue Jiannan¡¯s fish pond.


    Yue Jiannan finally snapped out of his previous state and regained his usual cleverness.


    From time to time, he made witty remarks, making Yu Yaxian purse her lips and laugh.


    Lin Chunju watched from the side and realized that both young people had a good first impression of each other; this matter could probably work out.


    Although everyone knew it was a matchmaking session, they only referred to it as a casual visit.


    Yu¡¯s mother began by praising Yue Jiannan with a smile.


    ¡°Now everyone in Daye Village says Jiannan is capable. Who would have thought that one could raise such fatty fish in a pond? I was amazed when I first heard about it.¡±


    Lin Chunju humbly responded, ¡°This lad used to be good-for-nothing, only getting slightly better these past two years.¡±


    ¡°You are too modest about your own child; I say, with Jiannan¡¯s skills, he¡¯s bound to live an increasingly prosperous life.¡±


    Lin Chunju¡¯s smile looked as if she had celebrated the New Year in advance, ¡°He still needs to push himself harder, always needing someone behind him to crack the whip and make him work properly.¡±


    That brought them to the point, and Yu¡¯s mother glanced at her daughter.


    Yu Yaxian subtly nodded, then quickly lowered her chin, her face showing a hint of shyness.


    Yu¡¯s mother then continued, ¡°Speaking of which, my daughter is about the same age as your youngest, just a few months younger. She used to be very spoiled at home too, but she has started to understand things better these days.¡±


    Yu Yaxian playfully rebuked, ¡°Mother!¡±


    Yu¡¯s mother smiled warmly, ¡°What? You¡¯re embarrassed now?¡±


    Turning to Lin Chunju, ¡°This girl has always had high standards. Apart from her brother, she rarely praises anyone. But recently, she¡¯s mentioned your Jiannan, saying that he¡¯s capable and skilled.¡±


    ¡°The villagers all said that the fish pond wouldn¡¯t be successful, but he managed to make it work, which is quite remarkable.¡±


    Lin Chunju then called out to Yue Jiannan, ¡°You should take Yaxian to see that precious fish pond of yours.¡±


    Yue Jiannan, who had been restless, immediately responded and, blushing, looked at Yu Yaxian.


    Yu Yaxian gave a slight smile and quietly followed Yue Jiannan.


    The two young people went outside, and Lin Chunju and Yu¡¯s mother continued their nuanced conversation.


    They were almost at the moment of truth.


    Yue Jiannan led Yu Yaxian all the way to the edge of the fish pond.


    The wind blew snow onto his face, which almost melted before touching him.


    Yue Jiannan¡¯s face was so red it could nearly fry an egg.


    It wasn¡¯t until they reached the edge of the fish pond that the temperature of his face finally returned to normal, and his speech became more fluid.


    ¡°Don¡¯t think just because it¡¯s winter and the pond is frozen, there aren¡¯t any fish alive underneath. In a couple of days, I¡¯ll cut a hole in the ice and fish out a couple to send to your house.¡±


    Yu Yaxian stood under the tree by the pond and called his name, ¡°Yue Jiannan?¡±


    Yue Jiannan, wishing he could melt with the snow, hurriedly responded, ¡°Yes, yes, anything you need?¡±


    ¡°Do you like me?¡±


    Yue Jiannan hadn¡¯t expected her to be so direct and nodded vigorously, like a pecking chicken.


    ¡°Yes! Definitely! The moment I saw you, my heart started thumping. I was thinking, ¡®Fairy Sister was in my dreams just yesterday, how has she descended to the mortal world today?''¡±


    Yu Yaxian chuckled, ¡°What a smooth talker!¡±


    The two chatted for a while, and it wasn¡¯t until lunchtime that Yue Jiannan led everyone back home.


    Seeing the expressions of the two young people, the household felt reassured.


    It looked like things had worked out!

 Chapter 150: 150 The Yu Familys Demands

    Chapter 150: Chapter 150 The Yu Family¡¯s Demands


    After this meal, the two of them were basically settled.


    Yue Jiannan was extremely pleased with Yu Yaxian, wishing he could have the wedding banquet the following day.


    It was Lin Chunju who dampened his enthusiasm, ¡°The Yu Family says the child is still young, so they can only have an engagement ceremony first, and get married in a couple of years.¡±


    In the village, it was rare to adhere so strictly to tradition, but since the Yu Family cherished their daughter, Lin Chunju naturally wouldn¡¯t object.


    Yue Jiannan scratched his head in frustration, ¡°Ah? That long still?¡±


    Furthermore, the Yu Family had laid out many conditions.


    In the old days, marriage required ¡®three turns one ring¡¯.


    These included a radio, a bicycle, a sewing machine, and a watch.


    For the Yue Family¡¯s current situation, these were no big deal.


    However, what the Yu Family demanded were the three most fashionable items in the city nowadays: a television, a washing machine, and a refrigerator.


    Lin Chunju counted the money in her hand, feeling a bit tight.


    Not counting the cost of getting electricity, just a refrigerator alone would cost between six hundred to eight hundred yuan.


    Not to mention the Yu Family also proposed that Yue Jiannan should build a new house, as the current residence was too cramped.


    If you added up the cost of building the house and buying furniture, it seemed endless.


    On the twenty-ninth of the twelfth lunar month, during the negotiation, Lin Chunju tactfully suggested that the sum of all requirements was quite substantial.


    ¡°Could we first build the house, and then add the three main appliances after Yu Yaxian moves in?¡±


    Yu¡¯s mother looked at Lin Chunju with a smile that wasn¡¯t quite a smile.


    ¡°My girl has been brought up with the utmost care, never lacking anything at home. Surely, we can¡¯t have her feeling inferior after getting married, hiding under the quilts every day and shedding tears.¡±


    With these words out in the open, what more could Lin Chunju say.


    Fortunately, she could comfort herself with the thought that Yu Yaxian wouldn¡¯t be marrying into the family for another two or three years.


    Now the eldest was in business, the second was farming, and Jiannan was managing the fish pond.


    Tightening their belts and gritting their teeth, somehow they would figure out how to save the money.


    After all, they had not easily persevered through the hard times, overcoming eighty-one hardships, just to falter at the last bow.


    There were four children in the family, and Yue Jiannan¡¯s marriage was the last concern, with the others able to offer some support.


    Zhang Ying and Wang Xiaoni didn¡¯t feel the family lost out on the third sibling¡¯s marriage; on the contrary, they turned around and persuaded Lin Chunju.


    ¡°Mom, the Yu Family is one of the wealthiest in the village. It¡¯s understandable they want to marry off their daughter with dignity, let¡¯s just agree to it.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s most important is that the third brother himself is happy. Anyway, whether it¡¯s the house or the furniture, in the end, it¡¯s all for the young couple to use.¡±


    Lin Chunju sighed, ¡°The Yu Family also demanded a three hundred yuan engagement gift. No family in the village has ever made such a lion¡¯s demand for an engagement.¡±


    If the money was for a dowry, Lin Chunju would have accepted it.


    Generally, an engagement present was just a formality, not highly priced, and she felt the Yu Family¡¯s attitude was a bit too much.


    Yue Jiandong said in a deep voice, ¡°It¡¯s fine, I¡¯ve made some money from my business recently. If you¡¯re short, I¡¯ll cover it.¡±


    Lin Chunju glanced at Zhang Ying and shook her head.


    ¡°You need to look after your own household, keep the money for yourself.¡±


    Zhang Ying immediately said, ¡°Mom, Jiandong is the eldest brother after all, it¡¯s right for him to pay!¡±


    Yue Jiannan, listening on the side, grew anxious.


    ¡°No way, we can¡¯t let the whole family stop living just because of my wedding.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll go talk to Yaxian. She definitely won¡¯t lack anything, but we need to give our family some time.¡±


    Lin Chunju quickly said, ¡°Come back here! Where do you think you¡¯re going? This isn¡¯t your place to speak, we adults will find a way.¡±


    But Yue Jiannan ignored her and rushed out of the house.


    By the time he arrived at the Yu Family¡¯s courtyard, Yu Yaxian was coincidentally building a snowman in the yard.


    Upon seeing Yue Jiannan, she tilted her head and looked at him, ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    ¡°I...¡± Yue Jiannan, short of heroic breath, suddenly couldn¡¯t utter a word.


    Yu Yaxian then walked over, slipping her hand into his pocket.


    ¡°My hands are just cold, can you warm them for me?¡±


    Swallowing hard, Yue Jiannan slid his own hands into his pockets as well, his originally intended words completely forgotten.

 Chapter 151: 151 My Wife, I Will Support Her

    Chapter 151: Chapter 151 My Wife, I Will Support Her


    Yue Jiannan only felt that Yu Yaxian¡¯s palms were so small; they could be completely enclosed in his own when curled into fists.


    Her cold body temperature gradually warmed under his grasp, and Yue Jiannan couldn¡¯t help but laugh foolishly, unable to speak.


    Yu Yaxian asked him, ¡°What did you come to find me for?¡±


    ¡°I... I...¡±


    Jiannan stammered, struggling to find a reason.


    ¡°I missed you.¡±


    Yaxian pursed her lips and smiled, withdrawing her warmed hand from Jiannan¡¯s pocket.


    ¡°Then let¡¯s walk and talk,¡± she said.


    The two of them walked out of the courtyard.


    Jiannan took a step back and, while Yaxian wasn¡¯t paying attention, quickly brought his palm to his nose and sniffed.


    Even though there was no discernible scent, Jiannan was certain he had caught a whiff of fragrance.


    He believed he had been discreet, but Yaxian caught these gestures in the corner of her eye, and her smile grew even brighter.


    The two of them walked and talked, with Yaxian mostly initiating the conversation and Jiannan responding in various tones.


    It was an utterly one-sided banter.


    After all, although he had read numerous books of all sorts, it was Jiannan¡¯s first time being in love.


    He felt that if he spoke too much, his heart might just leap out of his throat.


    After chatting for a bit, Yaxian changed the subject, ¡°When shall we have our engagement banquet?¡±


    ¡°The sooner, the better, of course.¡±


    ¡°Did your family agree to what my mother said yesterday?¡±


    Yaxian raised an eyebrow at Jiannan. With the atmosphere at that point, Jiannan could only nod, steeling himself.


    Only then did Yaxian break into a smile and took the initiative to interlock her arm with Jiannan¡¯s.


    ¡°After we have our engagement banquet, we¡¯ll get married in a couple of years.¡±


    The girl at his side drew closer and closer, and Jiannan found himself at a loss for words, his tongue starting to tie in knots.


    ¡°Well... that sounds good,¡± he said.


    ¡°But I¡¯ll have to go away for school later on, so we might not be able to see each other very often.¡±


    Jiannan let out a ¡°Huh,¡± ¡°Are you still in school?¡±


    ¡°Why are you so surprised? Haven¡¯t you heard people in the village talk about it? My mother sent me to the city to study a long time ago; I¡¯m staying at my uncle¡¯s house.¡±


    On reflection, Jiannan thought there might indeed have been talk about this.


    But he was never interested in those gossips, and they went in one ear and out the other.


    Only now did he have an epiphany; no wonder he had heard of Yaxian¡¯s name in the village but rarely seen her.


    It turned out she had gone to study in the city.


    Jiannan couldn¡¯t help but regard her with respect, ¡°Then you are really incredible. When I was younger, my mother also constantly pushed me to study, but I always found it boring, and I quit halfway through, going back home. Later, our family didn¡¯t have much money, so my mother didn¡¯t insist on my schooling anymore.¡±


    Looking up at the sky, Yaxian¡¯s face filled with longing, ¡°I¡¯m currently in high school, and in a few years, if I study well and pass the exams, I might become a college student.¡±


    Jiannan suddenly fell silent. The restoration of the college entrance exam hadn¡¯t even been a decade, and in the eyes of the villagers, college students were like the favored children of the heavens.


    He looked down at his feet at the leather shoes his brother had bought and then glanced at Yaxian.


    He suddenly felt a great distance between them.


    Yaxian seemed to notice something and sighed, giving him a gentle punch on the arm with her little fist.


    ¡°Why have you gone silent?¡±


    Jiannan forced a smile, ¡°I¡¯m just thinking that you are really impressive.¡±


    Yaxian winked at him, ¡°No matter how impressive, I¡¯ll still end up being your wife, right?¡±


    Her words immediately dispelled all of Jiannan¡¯s anxieties, filling his heart with warmth.


    Yaxian¡¯s following remarks also sounded so pleasant to his ears.


    ¡°Jiannan, once we have our engagement banquet, I¡¯m basically your wife, aren¡¯t I?¡±


    Jiannan said excitedly, ¡°Of course you are.¡±


    ¡°Since I¡¯ll be your woman, you¡¯ll definitely have to take care of my tuition and living expenses, right? It can¡¯t still be my family paying.¡±


    Slapping his chest in assurance, Jiannan said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll take care of my wife!¡±


    Yaxian laughed quietly, and the dimples on her cheeks appeared even more adorable.

 Chapter 152: 152: Have You Settled on Her?

    Chapter 152: Chapter 152: Have You Settled on Her?


    The Yue Family was also worried that Yue Jiannan might recklessly go to the Yu Family and cause some trouble.


    Little did they expect that the silly boy would come back only to smile foolishly.


    It was only upon questioning him that they learned he hadn¡¯t even dared to fart in front of Yu Yaxian.


    Instead, he had solemnly promised to bear the burden of her future educational and living expenses.


    At this point, even the naive Wang Xiaoni sensed something was off.


    ¡°If they were married, naturally it would be right for the third brother to provide, but nothing has been decided yet...¡±


    Yue Jiannan said righteously, ¡°Wouldn¡¯t everything be settled once we had the engagement drink?¡±


    An engagement is just that, an engagement. They hadn¡¯t truly held a wedding banquet or registered the marriage.


    Wang Xiaoni opened her mouth but found it hard to voice these concerns.


    Zhang Ying remembered some past events she had heard about in the village more than a decade ago.


    Back then, Daye Village had hosted several sent-down youths, both male and female.


    One of the male youths had taken a fancy to the daughter of the production brigade captain, and they had held a banquet in the village, with all expenses paid by the girl¡¯s side.


    The youth was basically counted as having married into the girl¡¯s family.


    Since the man was not very healthy, the girl¡¯s family had spent quite a bit on medical expenses for him, had tried to spare food for him during hard times, and didn¡¯t usually make him work the fields.


    After all, the girl¡¯s family had plenty of brothers and didn¡¯t miss the workpoints that the youth would earn.


    The brothers-in-law simply did the work for him.


    Later, the woman became pregnant and had a child, and everyone in the village felt their family was thriving.


    However, once the country allowed the sent-down youths to return to their cities, that particular youth dusted off his hands and left his wife and child behind to resume life in the city.


    The woman, heartbroken, held her child and wept daily. Her brothers, furious, went to the city to find him.


    They discovered that the youth had married another woman in the city and flatly denied knowing them.


    When they confronted him, he pointedly remarked that they were not married officially without a marriage certificate.


    He even threatened to call the police, claiming they were causing a disturbance in his home. The brothers were detained and lectured by the police.


    Once the news was brought back, the woman, clutching her child, threw herself into the river.


    Everyone who heard the story couldn¡¯t help but sigh. The villagers commented on how well that family had treated the youth, only to raise an ungrateful wolf.


    Yet Zhang Ying felt it was somewhat inappropriate to compare her story to Yu Yaxian¡¯s situation.


    After all, the Yu Family was a major household in the village and unlikely to behave in such a manner.


    Lin Chunju frowned slightly and asked Yue Jiannan.


    ¡°Have you thought this through? Are you certain you want to marry Yu Yaxian?¡±


    Yue Jiannan¡¯s eyes drooped as he muttered softly, ¡°I like her anyway, loved her the moment I saw her.¡±


    ¡°Besides, Yaxian also said that once she gets into university or college, all her expenses will be covered by the state, and she¡¯ll even secure a job placement after graduation.¡±


    Lin Chunju said expressionlessly, ¡°If she does get into university, she¡¯ll be the first college graduate from Daye Village. Do you think she¡¯ll still have eyes for you?¡±


    A college graduate could stay in the city after finishing school, immediately transitioning from a rural to an urban identity, a status not at all similar to rural life.


    The Yue Family was now footing the bill for the engagement money as well as Yaxian¡¯s tuition and living expenses.


    If later the other party denied the arrangement, they couldn¡¯t just drag them back to get married.


    That would be illegal.


    But Yue Jiannan was confident, ¡°That won¡¯t happen. Yaxian said no matter what, she would be my wife.¡±


    Lin Chunju looked at her youngest son, completely blinded by first love, and sighed.


    ¡°Since it¡¯s the wife you¡¯re marrying, mother won¡¯t be the evil one to break you two apart. Just make sure you won¡¯t regret it.¡±


    Clear joy spread across Yue Jiannan¡¯s face as he understood his mother had agreed, immediately raising his voice, ¡°Thank you, Mom!¡±


    Yaxian was such a good girl, he was sure they would get along well.


    In just two more years, he too would be able to embrace his wife.


    By then, with a plump baby added to their lives, their days would surely be sweet and joyful.

 Chapter 153: 153: Progress Together

    Chapter 153: Chapter 153: Progress Together


    Yue Jiannan and Yu Yaxian¡¯s engagement dinner was arranged for after the New Year.


    Once the villagers heard that the Yu Family was joining with the Yue Family, they were initially too shocked to speak.


    But then they thought about how all the brothers of the Yue Family had become successful, and it didn¡¯t seem so surprising.


    Especially when they heard that the Yue Family had already given three hundred as a betrothal gift upfront, they couldn¡¯t help but click their tongues in amazement.


    They truly hadn¡¯t expected the Yue Family to be so generous for a daughter-in-law; there were very few in the village who could offer such a high engagement gift.


    Consequently, many families with daughters regretted not acting sooner, thinking they had let the Yu Family snatch such a good deal.


    Amidst everyone¡¯s congratulations, the Yue Family welcomed the New Year.


    On New Year¡¯s Eve, the dishes on the table were much more abundant than the previous year.


    Some particularly delicious ones were even brought home in advance from the Four Seas Restaurant by Yue Jiandong.


    Once heated on the stove, the aroma wafted from inside the house to the yard.


    Yue Jiannan got up early to catch several fish from the pond, and after delivering them to the Yu Family, he brought the remaining fish home.


    Seeing his reluctant demeanor, it seemed he almost wished he could bring the Yu Family¡¯s girl back with him.


    ¡°Brother, next time you go to the city, could you buy some books for me? Yaxian said some textbooks are hard to find, and you know many people now, so you definitely have a way,¡± Jiannan said.


    Yue Jiandong nodded in agreement, ¡°Write down the names of the books for me, and I¡¯ll take a look.


    Lin Chunju wasn¡¯t the kind of mother-in-law who felt uncomfortable seeing her son and daughter-in-law getting along well.


    But she also couldn¡¯t stand to see Yue Jiannan acting so sentimental and turned to continue working in the kitchen.


    Yue Qingqing then sidled up to her uncle, and to her delight, Yue Jiannan scooped her up.


    ¡°If only Yaxian could give birth to a girl as pretty and clever as Qingqing in the future,¡± he mused.


    Zhang Ying shook her head with a smile, ¡°Now every third word from you is about Yaxian.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right,¡± boasted Jiannan, clearly proud.


    Qingqing looked up at Jiannan with big, innocent eyes and asked, ¡°If your wife is studying, why aren¡¯t you studying?¡±


    Yue Jiannan was taken aback, ¡°Why should I study?¡±


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t the TV always say that you should ¡®make progress together¡¯?¡±


    Lately, Yue Qingqing particularly enjoyed visiting the village head Zhang¡¯s house with Yue Xingxing to watch his newly acquired black-and-white TV.


    Village head Zhang had a chubby grandson, and every time Guingqing visited, she would bring some tasty treats from home.


    It was a bribe for the child to let them watch TV.


    An amicable agreement was reached, and village head Zhang found the whole situation quite amusing.


    When Yue Qingqing said this, Yue Jiannan scratched his head thought that maybe there was some truth to it.


    Yue Jiandong chimed in, ¡°Carrying one book or two doesn¡¯t matter; whatever textbooks Yaxian is buying, you should get a copy for yourself to study.¡±


    After pondering for a moment, Yue Jiannan said, ¡°But what¡¯s the use of my studying? I can¡¯t attend university.¡±


    His words were met with Yue Jianxi¡¯s impassioned input, ¡°How can you say there¡¯s no use? Mom has always said that education brings understanding.¡±


    Zhang Ying also encouraged, ¡°The fish farm went well this time, and didn¡¯t you learn a lot from books? I think maybe by reading more, you could earn more money.¡±


    With everyone weighing in so vociferously, Yue Jiannan came around to the idea as well.


    ¡°Alright! I¡¯ll study hard too,¡± he declared.


    That evening, the whole family gathered around the table together.


    Contemplating the various events of the past year, Lin Chunju couldn¡¯t help but become emotional.


    ¡°We¡¯ve come through the ups and downs, and life at home has been getting better. I hope each year will be better than the last,¡± she said with feeling.


    Everyone nodded in agreement, and Jiannan joked, ¡°Sis, last year at this time you were still knocking outside the door.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang¡¯s face flushed, but she quickly laughed it off, ¡°At that time, all I had was despair and thoughts of better off dead. Lucky I came home!¡±


    Home, where all the dark clouds dispersed.


    After a round of laughter and commotion, Yue Jiandong, as if by magic, pulled out a bottle of liquor and poured some for his mother and younger brother.


    Seeing the envious look in Yue Jiannan¡¯s eyes and considering that he was no longer the small child he once was, Yue Jiandong also poured a cup for him.


    Yue Jiannan gulped down a big mouthful but ended up choking and coughing repeatedly.


    Seeing his comical distress, the three children in the house all laughed heartily.

 Chapter 154: 154: Time Flies By

    Chapter 154: Chapter 154: Time Flies By


    After dinner, nearing midnight, Yue Jiandong took the three little ones out to set off firecrackers.


    The cracking and popping sounds made one¡¯s eardrums tremble.


    Yue Xingxing screamed and covered her ears.


    Yue Xiaohu was quite brave, wanting to go closer to pick up the duds that hadn¡¯t gone off.


    He was strictly stopped by the adults at home.


    Yue Jiandong had specifically bought some fireworks from the city.


    Unlike the firecrackers that only made noise, the fireworks exploded into brilliant colors.


    Although the fireworks the Yue Family set off were only a bit higher than the houses, they still attracted many people from the village to watch.


    The children were even dancing with joy.


    Yue Qingqing squinted at the fireworks and thought about her fellow apprentices back home.


    In the past during New Year¡¯s, her younger apprentice brother would also use spells to create various patterns.


    Back then, Yue Qingqing always found him noisy and annoying, but now she couldn¡¯t help but miss him.


    However, there probably wouldn¡¯t be another chance to see him again.


    Seeing her in a daze, Yue Jiandong reached out to support her by the underarms.


    With a little effort, he lifted her up and perched her on his shoulder.


    With a pop, the fireworks Yue Jiannan lit exploded, and it seemed Yue Qingqing could almost touch them.


    She couldn¡¯t help but giggle.


    In fact, life was not bad like this; only if she could grow up faster.


    The television said that the world outside was vast, and she still hoped to see more landscapes.


    As if hearing Yue Qingqing¡¯s prayers, the days flew by quickly.


    Smoothly, three years passed.


    It was spring again.


    Yue Jiannan had just stocked the fishpond with fry and turned to ask the exquisitely beautiful little girl next to him,


    ¡°Qingqing, how does Uncle think the fishpond looks this year?¡±


    The girl in front of him had extremely fair skin and large, bright eyes.


    Her cheeks still had baby fat, looking as adorable as she did three years ago.


    Yet her features were even more refined than before, clearly showing the signs of growing into a stunning beauty.


    This appearance was unique in Daye Village.


    Many people said that Yue Qingqing resembled those child stars on television, and perhaps they might see her there in the future.


    Yue Qingqing, with one hand behind her back as usual, pinched a spell, and the mutton-fat jade on her chest flashed momentarily.


    Golden mist enveloped the fishpond above, and the fry below swam about more vigorously.


    Having done all this, there was not even a drop of sweat on her forehead as she smiled at Yue Jiannan.


    ¡°It¡¯s very good, not only in the village but now even the city knows about Uncle¡¯s fishpond.¡±


    After three years of continuous cultivation, Yue Qingqing was just a step away from achieving Foundation Establishment.


    Simple spells no longer drained much of her spiritual power.


    Yue Jiannan laughed heartily, mussing Yue Qingqing¡¯s hair, ¡°Let¡¯s go home!¡±


    As the children grew, he could no longer simply pick up Yue Qingqing or carry her on his shoulder like before.


    But that didn¡¯t hinder the Yue Family¡¯s love and care for Qingqing.


    The past three years had been just as the Yue family hoped, getting better and better.


    Yue Jiandong¡¯s business had grown from small to large, initially just handling poultry from Daye Village to the city.


    Once the business reached a certain scale, he started expanding to other villages.


    Because of his sincere way of doing business combined with his acumen, he was now a supplier to several large restaurants in the city, specializing in high-quality products.


    Some restaurants even exclusively accepted Yue Jiandong¡¯s goods despite lower-priced alternatives, fearing the quality wouldn¡¯t match up.


    Besides raising fish, Yue Jiannan¡¯s fishpond also housed other aquatic life like shrimp and crabs.


    Around it, they grew a circle of vegetables and raised waterfowl like ducks,


    Following what was written in books about creating an aquaponics system.


    This was also unique in these villages.


    Each year, the harvested fish and shrimp were of such high quality, and even the ducks were plump and robust, fetching high prices.


    ¡°Uncle, let¡¯s hurry up; Dad is bringing food from Four Seas Restaurant today,¡± Yue Qingqing said.


    Yue Jiannan chuckled, tapping her head, ¡°After all these years, why are you still so gluttonous?¡±


    The Yue family¡¯s meals had been consistently good over the years, but the little one¡¯s fondness for food hadn¡¯t changed at all.


    Yue Qingqing just giggled adorably, leaving nobody able to utter any redundant words.


    Before they reached the door, a figure suddenly dashed out diagonally, nearly colliding with Yue Jiannan.


    Even before the figure approached, Yue Qingqing lifted her hand slightly, causing the person to stagger to one side, rolling aside.


    ¡°Crazy, what are you doing?¡±


    Yue Jiannan looked at the other party, still shaken, as the man raised his head, looking disheveled and destitute.


    ¡°I¡¯m here to find Yue Jiandong. Please, let him spare me,¡± he begged.

 Chapter 155: 155: Visit the Wife Tomorrow

    Chapter 155: Chapter 155: Visit the Wife Tomorrow


    Yue Jiannan listened, utterly perplexed.


    ¡°What nonsense are you spouting? My elder brother is a legitimate businessman. Who are you?¡±


    The man got up from the ground, covered in dust.


    ¡°You don¡¯t recognize me?¡±


    Yue Jiannan squinted, studying him, and finally recognized something familiar in the man¡¯s disheveled face.


    ¡°It¡¯s you, Wang Pengfei!¡±


    It was indeed the man who had once envied his brother for stealing his business and had come to their door.


    Later, when his schemes had failed, he was also behind enlisting Ma Jinbao to destroy Yue Xiaofang¡¯s reputation in Daye Village.


    Back then, Yue Jiannan had despised him intensely.


    But looking at Wang Pengfei¡¯s current state, he had almost failed to recognize him.


    ¡°Please, ask Yue Jiandong to let me go. I¡¯ve lost everything now; he should be satisfied, right?¡±


    Wang Pengfei pleaded repeatedly.


    Yue Jiannan frowned; he hadn¡¯t forgotten how this man¡¯s actions had nearly driven his sister to crash into a pillar.


    ¡°Qingqing, let¡¯s hurry home.¡±


    Yue Jiannan took Yue Qingqing¡¯s hand, ignoring Wang Pengfei completely.


    Wang Pengfei gritted his teeth, a fierce glint flashing in his eyes as he focused on Yue Qingqing.


    This was Yue Jiandong¡¯s only child.


    If Yue Jiandong wouldn¡¯t give him a way out, then he¡¯d let Yue Jiandong taste the agony of losing a heart¡¯s piece.


    However, before he could lunge and grab the child, a sharp gust of wind suddenly blew.


    Sharp stones, lifted by the wind, accurately struck his head.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Wang Pengfei screamed, clutching the back of his skull as he knelt on the ground.


    Yue Jiannan turned his head in confusion and glanced over, ¡°What¡¯s wrong with him?¡±


    Yue Qingqing looked innocently, ¡°I don¡¯t know, maybe it¡¯s divine retribution.¡±


    Yue Jiannan quickly took Yue Qingqing home to avoid being affected by this man¡¯s divine punishment.


    That evening, after Yue Jiandong came back, they learned the reason.


    Years ago, when Yue Jiandong guessed that Wang Pengfei had enlisted Ma Jinbao, he knew it was useless to confront him then and just kept the grievance in mind.


    Over the past two years as Yue Jiandong¡¯s business flourished, he happened to hear about a merchant duped by Wang Pengfei.


    The merchant had paid a high price for goods, which Wang Pengfei had intentionally delivered at night.


    Since they had cooperated seamlessly a few times before, the merchant hadn¡¯t paid much attention.


    When he went to use them the next day, he discovered the seafood had begun to smell rotten.


    No one knew what trickery Wang Pengfei had used before, as they still appeared fine externally.


    The restaurant owner was unwilling to be the sucker and went to the village to confront Wang Pengfei for justice.


    Wang Pengfei asked the owner to produce evidence cheerily.


    But with the night passed, where could the owner find such evidence? He could only swallow the bitter loss.


    On the way back, he was even sacked and beaten, presumably also done by Wang Pengfei.


    Although the owner didn¡¯t cooperate with Wang Pengfei after that, he couldn¡¯t stomach the grievance.


    When Yue Jiandong learned about this vendetta, he sought out the owner, and together they set a trap for Wang Pengfei.


    The owner first pretended to transfer ownership of the restaurant, managed by a distant relative.


    Wang Pengfei heard the news and came to propose a cooperation with the new owner.


    The relative asked for a contract, which Wang Pengfei didn¡¯t take seriously and agreed to after a cursory glance.


    When he tried the same old trick, the new owner called the police as soon as Wang Pengfei turned to leave.


    The contract required compensation several times over due to the large amount of the goods involved.


    Not only that, other restaurant owners, once aware of this incident, also ended their partnerships with Wang Pengfei.


    Eventually, Wang Pengfei couldn¡¯t keep his finances rolling and, faced with massive compensations, lost his fortune within days, with his followers dispersing.


    It was said that some even extorted money from Wang Pengfei, threatening to expose his past deeds if he didn¡¯t pay up.


    At last, having tracked down that his misfortune was Yue Jiandong¡¯s doing, Wang Pengfei had come to seek retribution.


    After hearing the full story, the Yue family couldn¡¯t help but sigh.


    This man really brought it upon himself; no wonder he ended up like this.


    Yue Jiannan said indignantly, ¡°It¡¯s good that I ignored him today. If he ever shows up again, he must be thrown out.¡±


    Yue Jiandong smiled indifferently, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, he won¡¯t come knocking again.¡±


    Wang Pengfei had wronged too many in his past.


    Once any of his former subordinates successfully extorted money from him, the rest would swarm him like relentless parasites.


    He would be too busy dealing with them, leaving no time to trouble the Yue family. He¡¯d probably have to flee soon.


    Knowing Wang Pengfei¡¯s fate, the family ate an extra two bowls each at dinner.


    After dinner, Yue Jiannan belched and went to find Lin Chunju.


    ¡°Mom, I¡¯m going to the city tomorrow.¡±


    Lin Chunju asked, ¡°Again to see your future wife?¡±


    Yue Jiannan chuckled sheepishly, scratching his head a bit embarrassingly.


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s been a while since I¡¯ve seen her. I¡¯ll sneak to her school tomorrow to surprise her.¡±


    Lin Chunju nodded approvingly, ¡°Sure, you¡¯ve been supporting her for three years; it¡¯s time to check on her.¡±

 Chapter 156: 156: Take Me With You

    Chapter 156: Chapter 156: Take Me With You


    Three years isn¡¯t so long, nor is it short.


    It was enough time for Yue Qingqing to grow from a tiny dumpling into a little dumpling, and enough for Yue Jiannan to grow from a green youth into a good man who dotes on his wife.


    The Yue Family was well-known in Daye Village for cherishing their daughters-in-law, and Yue Jiannan carried on this tradition to the fullest.


    In these three years, thanks to fish farming, he had earned some money, but each trip to the city also meant spending quite a bit.


    While others went to the city to buy nice things, Yue Jiannan would collect goods from the village to bring into the city.


    It was as if the city was a place of starvation and dire need, and Yu Yaxian was the poor little orphan living there.


    Even someone as honest as Yue Jianxi couldn¡¯t help but see his brother as behaving much like Li the lame¡¯s dog.


    Every time it saw its master, it would eagerly jump up, wagging its tail wildly for a thrown bone.


    If any mother saw her son behaving like this before marriage, she¡¯d definitely have a few words to say.


    Lin Chunju, however, was not bothered, always comforting herself with the thought that ¡°Children and grandchildren will have their own blessings.¡±


    She would turn a blind eye; out of sight, out of mind.


    After all, the money was all Jiannan¡¯s own doing; the family only provided the betrothal payment.


    She¡¯d mentioned it to the Yu Family twice since the children at home were all of similar age.


    Even by the village¡¯s standards, it had been long enough since the engagement to have a wedding.


    However, Yu¡¯s mother would respond with a deflection, saying the child was preparing for college entrance exams, and they would discuss it after the results.


    Lin Chunju calculated that it would be at least another half year.


    She then asked Yue Jiannan for his opinion.


    Yue Jiannan was initially quite reluctant.


    He too was a man in the prime of youth, yet his progress with Yu Yaxian at most amounted to sneaking kisses when no one was around.


    In the presence of others, they might not even manage a peck on the cheek.


    At night, lying alone on his hard bed, Yue Jiannan longed to have his wife beside him to embrace.


    The home promised to the Yu Family was already being built, and most of the furniture had been bought; even the refrigerator and washing machine were brought back home.


    All that was left was a large color TV, and Yue Jiannan planned to save a little more over the next couple of months, maybe ask his brother for a loan, so he could buy it from the city.


    Now the day had arrived, yet the Yu Family kept delaying, year after year. When would it ever end?


    He went to find Yu Yaxian to propose that, given they were of age, they could just get a marriage license first.


    They could hold the wedding banquet after the exam results came out.


    Yu Yaxian gazed at Yue Jiannan with puckered lips, looking pitiable.


    ¡°A wedding happens only once in a lifetime; I want to marry you with my diploma in hand and in style. Now everyone in the village says you¡¯re capable, and I must prove worthy of you.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Yue Jiannan¡¯s grin nearly split his face, and he had no objections whatsoever.


    Sometimes, villagers would teasingly jest with Yue Jiannan.


    ¡°Yue the Third, you¡¯ve been engaged for three years, why isn¡¯t your wife home yet? Be careful or she might run off with someone else.¡±


    Yue Jiannan would spit back fiercely, ¡°Nonsense, my wife¡¯s heart blooms toward me with sincere devotion; you know nothing of romance. Be careful, or I won¡¯t sell you my fish.¡±


    Yue Jiannan¡¯s fish were a sought-after delicacy in the city¡¯s big restaurants; selling them to the villagers was all about local camaraderie.


    That person would then close his mouth and nod in agreement, ¡°Yes, yes, we¡¯re uneducated and lack culture; we don¡¯t understand your young people¡¯s romance.¡±


    But inside, they would scoff.


    Seeing you, lad, always running errands for the Yu Family to the city, each time Yu¡¯s young lady came back, she¡¯d be on her bicycle, loaded with big and small bags.


    Yet the Yu Family never seemed too affectionate toward their son-in-law.


    Is this what you call romance? I am afraid, very afraid.


    Yue Jiannan didn¡¯t care about these comments; his mind was filled with thoughts of visiting his betrothed in the city.


    However, upon leaving the house that morning, he felt an added weight on his leg.


    Looking down, he saw Yue Qingqing clinging to his pant leg, her dumpling face looking up at him.


    ¡°Uncle, take Qingqing with you.¡±


    Yue Jiannan was amused at the sight, the kiddo was dressed neatly, not a hat or glove missing.


    This wasn¡¯t a last-minute whim; she had been plotting this for a while.


    ¡°Why would you go with Uncle to the city to see his fiance?e?¡±


    Yue Qingqing¡¯s eyes rolled, ¡°I¡¯ll accompany you to visit.¡±


    ¡°Be good, stay at home. Uncle will bring you back some treats.¡±


    Yue Jiannan peeled his niece¡¯s hands off and headed for the door, but Yue Qingqing scurried back and clung to him again.


    ¡°Please take me with you, I¡¯ve been really good.¡±


    Yue Jiannan was about to call out for his mother, Lin Chunju, to deal with this little one.


    But on second thought, considering how the family usually spoiled Qingqing, he figured he¡¯d probably be the one to end up in trouble if he called his mom over.


    ¡°Well then, after we arrive, Uncle will leave you in the reception room to chat with Old Zhang, okay?¡±


    He certainly didn¡¯t want an extra light bulb interfering with his alone time with his fiance?e.


    ¡°Got it!¡± If it weren¡¯t for you, I wouldn¡¯t even go to the city.

 Chapter 157: 157: Pick up the Wife and Take You Away

    Chapter 157: Chapter 157: Pick up the Wife and Take You Away


    Walking on the road out of the village, Yue Jiannan touched the gloves he held in his arms.


    He had specifically asked his sister to make them for his wife.


    Though spring had arrived, the weather was still somewhat cold; he didn¡¯t want Yaxian to freeze her hands.


    Yue Jiannan also planned to buy some things from the village to take with him.


    However, Qingqing tugged at his sleeve, ¡°Let¡¯s go earlier, or we¡¯ll miss the bus.¡±


    In the three years not only the cities, but also the surrounding villages, had developed rapidly.


    The government had funded road repairs, and the once rugged mountain roads had become much smoother.


    When the first truck arrived, villagers spread the word excitedly.


    Many elders kept stepping back at the sight of it, intimidated by the dark fumes and alarming appearance.


    But later, there were even buses that went directly to the city; although they only ran two or three times a day, they provided great convenience.


    Now, aside from some naive kids who still chased after the vehicles, everyone else had gotten used to them.


    Yue Jiannan glanced at the quartz watch on his wrist, ¡°Okay, we can buy things in the city as well.¡±


    Once he got to the school and fetched Yaxian, he would take her to the International Trade Building to buy some new clothes for spring and summer.


    She would definitely look beautiful in them.


    Arriving at the bus stop, Yue Jiannan craned his neck anxiously, his eager look causing those around him to chuckle.


    ¡°Jiannan, going to the city to see your wife again?¡±


    He laughed sheepishly, ¡°Yeah, she¡¯s been busy studying recently; it¡¯s been a while since I saw her.¡±


    The elderly lady chuckled, ¡°Not bad, good man who dotes on his wife. If I¡¯d known earlier, I¡¯d have introduced my granddaughter to you.¡±


    Yue Jiannan hastily said, ¡°Oh no, please don¡¯t say that, if Yaxian hears it, she¡¯ll be unhappy.¡±


    The old lady, half amused and half exasperated, shook her head, believing Yue Jiannan would definitely be henpecked in the future.


    She bent down to play with Qingqing, who had been pretty since childhood and possessed a particularly soft and sweet temperament.


    In the village, she called everyone uncle, auntie, grandpa, and grandma so adorably, she swindled countless candies with her charm.


    After a long wait, the bus finally arrived, raising a cloud of dust as it pulled into the station.


    The conductor, familiar with Yue Jiannan, said, ¡°Off to see your wife again? How come you didn¡¯t bring any goodies this time?¡±


    ¡°Heh heh, I¡¯ll buy them in the city.¡±


    ¡°That makes sense.¡±


    The conductor took the money and tore the tickets, then looked down at Qingqing.


    ¡°Little darling, would you like to sit with auntie?¡±


    Yue Jiannan quickly declined, ¡°No need, I¡¯ll sit at the back with the child.¡±


    Qingqing waved her hand politely.


    The conductor watched her walk towards the back with a longing gaze, feeling her heart melt.


    ¡°Once we¡¯re in the city, you must hold onto your uncle tightly. If it gets crowded and we get separated, remember to wait right there for me, don¡¯t run off, okay? And don¡¯t take candy from strangers.¡±


    Yue Jiannan repeated his admonishments tirelessly, sincerely worried for the child who was so endearing.


    If he were a kidnapper, he would certainly have devised a plan to spirit Qingqing away.


    As Yue Jiannan¡¯s eagerness mounted, eventually the bus reached the city.


    Yue Jiannan held Qingqing¡¯s hand as they walked toward the school.


    Yu Yaxian attended the school in the city, where students of varying ages bustled at the entrance.


    After all, it had only been more than a decade since the restoration of the college entrance examination; many children were brought to school at an older age by their parents.


    Some were already adults by the time they were in middle school.


    But as the saying goes, ¡°Knowledge changes fate¡±; in those days, not just college students, but even junior college students were considered the favored ones.


    Upon graduation, the national government would allocate them jobs, granting them an innate official status.


    Therefore, if there was even the slightest chance, parents would grit their teeth to provide their children with an education.


    But schools didn¡¯t accept just anyone; one had to have some foundation.


    To pass the school¡¯s examination and keep up with the curriculum.


    Yue Jiannan always left Yaxian¡¯s packages in the guard room whenever he brought her things, and he was very familiar with Old Zhang who manned the school gate.


    ¡°Old man, this is my little niece, could you please watch her for me? I need to go find my wife in the school.¡±


    Seeing Qingqing reminded Old Zhang of his own granddaughter, so he nodded his agreement, albeit with some confusion.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you usually bring stuff? Why do you need to go inside today?¡±


    ¡°I want to give her a surprise.¡±


    After settling Qingqing, Yue Jiannan hurried off, unable to contain his excitement.


    Yet, Qingqing grasped his sleeve, ¡°Uncle, remember to take me home, okay?¡±


    Yue Jiannan couldn¡¯t help but smile; the child was usually quite brave and clever, yet it seemed she too worried about being left behind by adults.


    He ruffled Qingqing¡¯s hair carelessly, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, once your uncle picks up my wife, I¡¯ll take you with us.¡±

 Chapter 158: 158: An Unexpected Encounter

    Chapter 158: Chapter 158: An Unexpected Encounter


    Before, Yue Jiannan had never really stepped into the campus of Yizhong.


    The reason was unclear; it might have been due to inferiority, or perhaps because Yu Yaxian always arranged their meeting places outside the school.


    Therefore, it was his first time setting foot in this place during the three years.


    But Yue Jiannan had long committed to memory the information about his wife¡¯s school and would often think of it while reading by the fish pond.


    He didn¡¯t know if Yaxian was hungry or thirsty.


    During classes, he wondered if she would daydream like he did when he was a child.


    Yue Jiannan stood in front of the academic building waiting, reaching into his coat to touch the gloves he kept there.


    There was still a quarter of an hour until the end of the last morning class.


    Then, Yaxian would come down from this building and look up to see him.


    Would she dive into his arms as usual?


    But in school, it wouldn¡¯t be appropriate, so holding hands would suffice.


    While thinking, Yue Jiannan covered his face to keep his overly radiant smile from startling others.


    The minute and second hands on his watch moved so slowly, but he finally managed to endure until the class bell rang.


    Suddenly, an impulse struck Yue Jiannan, and without knowing why, he hid behind a large tree next to the steps of the teaching building.


    A surprise naturally required an unexpected way of appearing.


    Seconds later, students came down the steps in droves.


    Their faces mostly carried smiles as they chattered with those next to them.


    Some even walked down together with boyfriends.


    In those days, because people generally went to school later, many high school students were of an age to seek partners.


    It was natural to find a ¡°comrade for mutual progress¡± within the school.


    Many students came from well-to-do families and parents were not as opposed to early dating as they would be in later generations; in fact, they might even be happy about it.


    Some of the older ones were even married already.


    Yue Jiannan waited anxiously and finally saw Yu Yaxian.


    He couldn¡¯t wait to step out from behind the tree but then noticed a young man accompanying her.


    The young man wore glasses and looked refined.


    A dark cyan scarf was wrapped around his neck, indicating from his attire alone that he came from a well-off family.


    Yu Yaxian laughed and chatted as they walked down the stairs together.


    A pang hit Yue Jiannan unexpectedly, and he withdrew behind the tree again.


    He must be a classmate, so chatting and walking down together was no big deal.


    Yue Jiannan did not consider himself the type of man who wouldn¡¯t let his wife talk to other people.


    Yet, seeing the sweet dimples on Yaxian¡¯s face, he always felt somewhat choked up.


    As Yu Yaxian talked, several close female friends giggled as they passed by them.


    ¡°Yaxian, are you whispering sweet nothings with your Brother Song from home again?¡±


    Yu Yaxian looked at the young man with shy embarrassment on her face and did not retort.


    Yue Jiannan felt a buzzing in his head; sounds around him seemed to drift away,


    And yet they distinctly floated into his ears.


    ¡°Yaxian, you and Song Qiming have been dating for quite a while now, when can we drink to your wedding?¡±


    ¡°Exactly, hold a trendy Western-style wedding, and I¡¯ll be your bridesmaid.¡±


    Yaxian¡¯s cheeks turned crimson, her small dimples growing deeper.


    Yue Jiannan stood behind the tree, watching her expressions intently.


    Every time Yaxian showed this demeanor, he was always enraptured, agreeing to whatever she said.


    Song Qiming was clearly moved by Yaxian¡¯s appearance as well and laughed heartily.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, once the college entrance exams are over, I will certainly give Yaxian a clear answer.¡±


    Yu Yaxian looked up at him, her eyes sparkling.


    Finally, Yue Jiannan couldn¡¯t hold back any longer and burst out from behind the tree.

 Chapter 159: 159: Dispirited and Distracted

    Chapter 159: Chapter 159: Dispirited and Distracted


    ¡°Yaxian!¡±


    Yue Jiannan¡¯s sudden appearance startled everyone on the steps.


    Yu Yaxian¡¯s face turned pale as she watched Yue Jiannan draw closer and closer.


    The surrounding people looked at Yue Jiannan in surprise, not knowing why his eyes were red-rimmed.


    Yue Jiannan stepped onto the stairs, but Yu Yaxian suddenly stepped back.


    ¡°Who is he?¡± Yue Jiannan looked at Song Qiming, his hands trembling at his sides.


    It must be a misunderstanding, it has to be.


    How could Yaxian do such a thing?


    Hop was evident in Yue Jiannan¡¯s eyes, as long as Yu Yaxian would give him an explanation, he would surely nod and believe her.


    But Yu Yaxian bit her lower lip, saying nothing.


    Instead, the short-haired girl next to her stared at Yue Jiannan, showing realization.


    ¡°So you¡¯re the countryman Yaxian mentioned who keeps pestering her? Hey, stop bothering Yaxian all the time, she¡¯s already taken by someone else.¡±


    Yue Jiannan was shocked, looking at Yu Yaxian.


    ¡°The countryman who¡¯s always pestering you? Is that how you describe me to them?¡±


    Yu Yaxian didn¡¯t speak, her eyes flickering away.


    The crowd exchanged glances, sensing that something was amiss.


    Song Qiming frowned, ¡°Yu Yaxian, I hope you can give me an explanation.¡±


    After speaking, he swept away, and Yu Yaxian hurriedly followed him.


    ¡°Senior Song, it¡¯s not what you think... please... please wait for me.¡±


    A few female students whispered among themselves while looking at Yue Jiannan, but Yue Jiannan was oblivious to them.


    He walked back aimlessly, his steps quickening until he suddenly started to run.


    Various thoughts and images churned in Yue Jiannan¡¯s mind.


    The joy of drinking engagement wine, the flutters he felt every time he saw Yu Yaxian, and the frequency of his heartbeat when he called her his wife.


    But these images shattered inch by inch, and Yue Jiannan¡¯s chest hurt as if it were on fire.


    He was running so fast that he crashed into someone unexpectedly.


    ¡°Ouch!¡±


    The girl fell to the ground at the sound, and Yue Jiannan abruptly stopped in his tracks.


    The girl he had knocked down had a pair of phoenix eyes and was very pretty; she frowned slightly, holding her shoulder.


    Her friend hurried to help her up, rebuking Yue Jiannan without courtesy, ¡°Why are you running so fast in the campus, are you blind?¡±


    The girl quickly stopped her, ¡°It¡¯s okay, he probably didn¡¯t mean it.¡±


    ¡°Sorry...¡± Yue Jiannan apologized instinctively, walking towards the school gate like a zombie.


    ¡°What kind of person is that, just saying sorry and that¡¯s it?¡±


    The friend grumbled while massaging the girl¡¯s shoulder, comforting her, ¡°Yushan, does it still hurt?¡±


    Lin Yushan shook her head, then suddenly noticed a pair of gloves on the ground.


    She quickly picked them up and chased after Yue Jiannan.


    ¡°Classmate, you dropped your gloves.¡±


    Yue Jiannan turned around numbly.


    He saw the pair of gloves that he had originally intended to give Yu Yaxian, now in the hands of another person.


    They must have fallen from his pocket during that collision.


    ¡°Classmate, are you all right?¡± Lin Yushan asked, waving a hand in front of his face with some concern in her eyes.


    Yue Jiannan came to his senses and coldly said, ¡°The gloves are yours now.¡±


    After saying that, he turned and left.


    ¡°Wait, I can¡¯t take these...¡±


    Lin Yushan¡¯s words trailed off as Yue Jiannan quickly disappeared from sight.


    Her friend took the gloves, touched the material, and looked surprised.


    ¡°This is high-quality sheepskin, wow, he really splurged. He must have bumped into you on purpose, are people these days gifting in such special ways?¡±


    The friend was envious, and rightly so; Yushan, as the school¡¯s recognized belle, probably had people know she never accepted gifts, and this person must have thought of this strategy.


    Lin Yushan shook her head, frowning, ¡°It¡¯s too valuable, I can¡¯t accept it.¡±


    ¡°But he didn¡¯t even leave a name. However, since he¡¯s your admirer, he will surely appear again.¡±


    Lin Yushan looked in the direction Yue Jiannan had vanished, feeling an intense worry.


    The man had seemed so distraught; she hoped nothing bad would happen to him...

 Chapter 160: 160: Something Strange

    Chapter 160: Chapter 160: Something Strange


    Yue Jiannan unknowingly walked towards the back of the school gate.


    The road was filled with various noisy sounds, but Yue Jiannan felt as if he was cut off from the world, unable to hear anything.


    He watched the endless stream of people, and for a moment, felt utterly disheartened.


    He even thought about just throwing himself in front of a truck and ending it all.


    But in that moment, he suddenly thought of Yue Qingqing.


    The child was still waiting for him in the porter¡¯s lodge.


    Yue Jiannan, as if waking from a dream, suddenly shivered violently.


    It seemed that only in that moment did he return to the real world.


    He hurriedly went back to school.


    Upon entering the porter¡¯s lodge, Yue Qingqing was chatting with Old Zhang, who was so delighted that he couldn¡¯t stop smiling.


    He was rummaging through the cabinet to find something for her to eat.


    ¡°Uncle!¡± Yue Qingqing suddenly turned her head and saw Yue Jiannan.


    Before Yue Jiannan could approach, she quickly walked over and stretched her arms to embrace her uncle.


    ¡°Uncle, hug me.¡±


    Yue Jiannan held the soft, little bundle.


    Even though he was an adult and Yue Qingqing was still a child,


    he felt as if he found some kind of strength from her.


    The turmoil inside him slowly calmed down, a feeling of being healed enveloped his whole body.


    ¡°Uncle will take you home now.¡±


    Yue Qingqing looked up and into Yue Jiannan¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°I was good, waiting for you, I knew you wouldn¡¯t leave Qingqing behind.¡±


    Yue Jiannan took a deep breath, his nose slightly tingling.


    The road home seemed longer than when he came, yet he felt two completely different emotions.


    Yue Jiannan watched the flying dust outside the window, beginning to think calmly about what to do.


    The sourness of a young, naive first love meeting betrayal was bound to bear bitter fruit.


    Yue Jiannan thought he could swallow this bitterness as if nothing had happened.


    But the Yue Family couldn¡¯t.


    He wasn¡¯t stupid; now that he thought about it, many things seemed suspicious.


    Even the arranged meeting at the beginning was off.


    The Yu Family was a major household in the village, and the village always followed the principle of matching families of similar status.


    Although the Yue Family had developed quickly over the last three years, at that time, they weren¡¯t likely to catch the attention of the Yu Family.


    Yet, after just one meeting, he and Yu Yaxian were settled.


    Given the Yu Family¡¯s status, the idea of marriage fraud seemed particularly absurd.


    Under normal circumstances, the Yu Family had no reason to do something that could potentially destroy their reputation.


    There might be some hidden issues he didn¡¯t know about.


    Having regained his composure, Yue Jiannan finally found some clues, but he needed to discuss them with his family.


    Yue Jiannan managed to keep his cool.


    He waited until after dinner to bring up the matter when Zhang Ying asked how his visit with his wife went.


    ¡°What?!¡±


    Wang Xiaoni could barely hold onto her chopsticks, unable to believe her ears.


    ¡°How could... That¡¯s impossible.¡±


    It was fortunate that Yue Jiannan waited until everyone was nearly done eating, or else none would have had an appetite.


    Lin Chunju asked him, ¡°Are you sure? It¡¯s not a misunderstanding? A woman¡¯s reputation is very important; we can¡¯t just accuse someone wrongly.¡±


    Yue Jiannan nodded, ¡°I heard and saw everything clearly.¡±


    Zhang Ying kept muttering back and forth, ¡°How could... There are really people like that in the world.¡±


    Yue Jiandong analyzed from a more rational perspective.


    ¡°I think the latter part of what our third brother said was quite right, there¡¯s probably more to the Yu Family¡¯s story.¡±


    Yue Jianxi said in confusion: ¡°But the village hasn¡¯t heard anything.¡±


    Daye Village was just a speck of a place; if the Yu Family had any significant issues, they would know.


    Yue Jiandong said gravely, ¡°If it¡¯s not in the village, maybe something happened in the city, doesn¡¯t Yu Yaxian¡¯s uncle live in the city?¡±


    ¡°But if there really was an issue, it would have been three years ago, how can we find out now?¡±


    Yue Jiandong, no longer the person he once was, had the savvy far beyond that of Daye Village through years of experience.


    ¡°No worries, I¡¯ll think of something. Anything that has happened will leave a trace, our family can¡¯t just let this go.¡±

 Chapter 161: 161 What is the Old Swindler Up To

    Chapter 161: Chapter 161 What is the Old Swindler Up To


    Yue Jiandong was a decisive man; he took Qingqing to the city early the next morning.


    Originally, he had thought about going alone.


    But as soon as his daughter heard he might be visiting the Four Seas Restaurant, she licked her lips and looked at him with eager eyes.


    Yue Jiandong had no choice but to bring the little foodie with him.


    Once in the city, Yue Jiandong made a beeline for the Four Seas Restaurant and found Zheng Tianbo.


    Perhaps it was because he had been managing the Four Seas Restaurant all this time, Zheng Tianbo seemed to have put on weight, looking much more prosperous.


    He was always smiling, which made people feel happy just looking at him.


    Seeing Zheng Tianbo¡¯s aura, Yue Qingqing could tell that he had been living a good life these past three years.


    That golden, glittering aura was clearly one of wealth. With such a manager at the helm of Four Seas Restaurant, it was no wonder that business was booming.


    As soon as Yue Jiandong entered the door, Zheng Tianbo spotted him.


    ¡°Old Yue, what brings you here today?¡±


    It was still a good half a month away from the agreed delivery date.


    Their cooperation over the past few years had gone smoothly, and their relationship had grown closer than before, making their conversations less constrained.


    Yue Jiandong got straight to the point, ¡°I need a favor from you.¡±


    Knowing Yue Jiandong was not one to ask for help lightly, Zheng Tianbo immediately nodded.


    ¡°Let¡¯s talk upstairs.¡±


    Once in Zheng Tianbo¡¯s office, Yue Jiandong stated his request.


    Zheng Tianbo listened attentively and even became a bit angry when he heard the full story.


    ¡°Your brother has been supporting someone for three years, and only now he discovers that the person has another significant other in school?¡±


    Yue Jiandong nodded, ¡°Yes, my younger brother has been wholeheartedly devoted to her, never expecting to encounter such a situation. But we suspect that there¡¯s more to it, and that the Yu Family might have had issues from the start.¡±


    Zheng Tianbo didn¡¯t hesitate, slapping his chest in assurance.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Old Yue, I have some connections in the city. I¡¯ll definitely try to find out more for you.¡±


    Yue Jiandong quickly thanked him, ¡°I really appreciate it, but your business comes first. If you can¡¯t find anything, it¡¯s okay.¡±


    ¡°No problem, I have my ways,¡± replied Zheng Tianbo confidently.


    He then looked at Yue Qingqing with fondness and said, ¡°Qingqing is getting prettier by the day, truly a beautiful young lady in the making. You¡¯re going to have a lot on your hands when she grows up.¡±


    Yue Qingqing tilted her face upward and smiled sweetly at Zheng Tianbo, her smile tinged with ingratiating charm.


    After all, her father often brought her delicious treats from the Four Seas Restaurant.


    Zheng Tianbo sighed with emotion, feeling an urge to whisk the little sweetie back to his own home.


    Upon hearing Zheng Tianbo¡¯s words, Yue Jiandong felt both proud and anxious.


    He thought he¡¯d better keep a close eye on things in the future, to ensure no crafty young man could easily deceive his precious daughter.


    Zheng Tianbo had the chefs prepare a few of Yue Qingqing¡¯s favorite dishes and packed them for Yue Jiandong to take home.


    He also accompanied Yue Jiandong to the entrance, waiting until their figures had disappeared from sight before returning inside.


    Not long after entering the restaurant, a doorman came to announce that the young master was about to enter.


    Zheng Tianbo quickly turned to welcome him.


    In three years, Jiang Jingze had grown much taller, his face losing its baby fat, revealing handsome and distinct features.


    It was clear that he would grow into a charming young man, assuming he was able to grow up safely.


    Zheng Tianbo had an extra mat placed at the entrance, fearful that Jiang Jingze might stumble, but fortunately, the latter managed to enter steadily.


    Jiang Jingze looked to Zheng Tianbo and asked indifferently, ¡°Is the kitchen ready?¡±


    Zheng Tianbo hurriedly nodded, ¡°Yes, it¡¯s all ready for you.¡±


    He truly didn¡¯t understand the young master¡¯s habits.


    Despite having a wealthy father, he insisted on regularly visiting the Four Seas Restaurant to have a master chef teach him culinary skills.


    Why should such a young lord endure this hardship? And besides, kitchens are dangerous, aren¡¯t they?


    What Zheng Tianbo didn¡¯t know was that Jiang Jingze was even more puzzled than him.


    Ever since narrowly escaping disaster more than three years ago, Jiang Chengren treated the words of the old shaman as sacred and dared not defy them.


    The old shaman had claimed that to ensure Jiang Jingze¡¯s safety for life, it was essential for him to master the culinary arts.


    That was why his parents, with tears in their eyes, had their son start by flipping spoons and develop calluses on his palms.


    At a young age, Jiang Jingze¡¯s skills were already sufficient for him to be a head chef at any ordinary restaurant.


    Jiang Jingze truly couldn¡¯t comprehend it; while most swindlers conned for money, what was this old shaman really after?

 Chapter 162: 162 Thinking of a Way

    Chapter 162: Chapter 162 Thinking of a Way


    After leaving Four Seas Restaurant, Yue Jiandong felt it still wasn¡¯t safe enough.


    After all, three years had passed, and although Zheng Tianbo was well-connected, he might not be able to uncover the full picture.


    Yue Qingqing was slurping her saliva, hugging the lunch box tightly in her arms.


    If she hadn¡¯t been thinking about eating with her family, this little one would probably have found a place to sneak a few bites by now.


    Yue Jiandong couldn¡¯t help but laugh at his daughter¡¯s behavior, when suddenly a flash of inspiration struck him.


    Food is essential to life, and no matter the era, there¡¯s never a shortage of restaurants.


    Big restaurants have high turnover, but small eateries are often situated near residential buildings.


    They welcome and bid farewell to regular customers.


    Many owners and proprietresses are chatty, and over time, not only have they come to understand their customers¡¯ tastes like the back of their hand, but they also know everything about their families.


    Yu Yaxian¡¯s uncle¡¯s family must have frequented these kinds of small eateries; perhaps he could find out some news from three years ago through them.


    He immediately raised his arm and hailed a tricycle, then lifted Qingqing onto it before climbing on himself.


    ¡°Driver, please take us to Yez Road.¡±


    Yue Jiannan used to talk about going to Yez Road to make deliveries when he entered the city every day.


    Jiandong had heard it so often that he was familiar with it, never expecting it to come in handy at this time.


    ¡°Hold on tight, all right.¡±


    Tricycles back then were somewhat like the taxis of later years, just much more rudimentary.


    There was an added seat behind the motorbike¡¯s front, providing a complete 360-degree panoramic view.


    In the biting chill of early spring, as it roared into motion, the wind stung the face.


    Otherwise, why would there be the saying about the February spring breeze being as sharp as scissors?


    Yue Jiandong quickly covered Yue Qingqing¡¯s face with his sleeve to block the wind.


    Yue Qingqing sat obediently, with a slight release of Spiritual Energy from her body.


    Yue Jiandong suddenly felt something was off, as in winter, riding a tricycle would usually have one shivering cold.


    But today, his whole body felt pleasantly warm.


    However, he just assumed the weather was gradually warming up, without giving it much thought.


    Upon reaching the destination and paying the driver, Yue Jiannan looked up at the housing complex in front of him.


    This area was one of the older residential ones in the city; its exterior appeared more worn compared to the buildings in the city center.


    He didn¡¯t know which building Yu Yaxian¡¯s uncle lived in, so he could only turn his gaze to some of the eateries around the neighborhood.


    One of them had an old sign that read ¡°Auntie Zhang¡¯s Home Cooking.¡±


    The words ¡°home cooking¡± were shrouded in a layer of soot due to prolonged exposure to smoke, indicating its age at a glance.


    Yue Jiandong walked in with Qingqing; the proprietress was a middle-aged auntie with a friendly appearance.


    A blackboard hung on the wall, with the menu written in chalk, along with the prices.


    Upon hearing the sound of customers, the proprietress pointed to the blackboard.


    ¡°The menu is up there; rice is charged separately, and children are half price,¡± she said.


    Yue Jiandong stepped forward and said, ¡°Hello, I¡¯m not here to eat.¡±


    ¡°Ah?¡± The proprietress paused, ¡°No need for newspapers, we already subscribe at home.¡±


    Yue Jiandong quickly shook his head, ¡°No, I¡¯m asking if you need supplies? We have fresh vegetables and meat.¡±


    ¡°Supplies?¡± The proprietress declined politely, ¡°We don¡¯t need any; our vegetables are grown by our own relatives.¡±


    Yue Jiandong knew that was just an excuse and introduced himself further.


    ¡°My name is Yue Jiandong, I specialize in supplying some of the city¡¯s restaurants. Because we often have large orders, sometimes there are leftovers that aren¡¯t good to take back, so I was wondering if it would be convenient for you to take some? I can offer you a discount.¡±


    The name precedes the person, and the proprietress expressed her surprise, ¡°Oh, Mr. Yue? I¡¯ve heard of you; don¡¯t you only supply to big restaurants?¡±


    Yue Jiandong was certain inside, it looked like this deal was pretty much settled.

 Chapter 163: 163: Stabilize Him First

    Chapter 163: Chapter 163: Stabilize Him First


    The following matters were discussed smoothly, and the two agreed not to sign a contract first.


    Next time Yue Jiandong brought goods over, the lady boss could buy them on the spot if she liked them; if not, Yue Jiandong would take them away.


    In this way, there was no need to pay a deposit, and it was convenient and fast.


    The slightly worried lady boss immediately agreed and was convinced that the man in front of her was not a swindler.


    After settling this matter, Yue Jiandong took Yue Qingqing back home and rode the tricycle to the village bus station.


    After getting home, Yue Jiandong shared his thoughts with his family.


    ¡°If we ask directly, they might not be willing to tell us, and they might even turn around and tell Yu Yaxian¡¯s uncle, which would alert the snake and make the investigation more troublesome,¡± he said.


    ¡°So I thought about getting closer to the lady boss first. This matter cannot be rushed,¡± Yue Jiandong said particularly to his younger brother, ¡°Even if we¡¯re angry, we need to take it step by step.¡±


    Yue Jiannan nodded in agreement, ¡°You¡¯re right, brother, I understand.¡±


    Yue Jiandong then felt relieved as he had initially been worried that his brother would be blinded by anger.


    He hadn¡¯t expected that Yue Jiannan appeared even stronger than he had imagined.


    In fact, Yue Jiannan wasn¡¯t strong, nor was he indifferent.


    What he had given up over three years wasn¡¯t just money or effort, but his youthful sincerity and passion.


    Yet, Yu Yaxian had cruelly stabbed him in the heart, a wound that ached to his bones, and Yue Jiannan didn¡¯t know when it would heal.


    But the more it hurt, the more he wanted to know the truth.


    For this, Yue Jiannan was willing to be patient.


    While Yue Jiandong tried to find out the reasons, Yu Yaxian returned to the village.


    In the past, Yue Jiannan had always specifically gone to the city to pick her up, but this time she came back alone.


    The villagers who saw her come and go were puzzled.


    Once home, Yu¡¯s mother took the luggage from her daughter and could not help but snort.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t Yue Jiannan go to the city to pick you up today? Why did he let you come back alone?¡±


    It was only when she took Yu Yaxian¡¯s hand that she found it ice-cold, which made her even more angry with Yue Jiannan.


    ¡°I¡¯ve told him you¡¯re not well, you can¡¯t stand the cold. He promised in front of me to have Yue Xiaofang make you a pair of gloves, why hasn¡¯t he kept his word?¡±


    Yu Siyuan added from the side, ¡°Maybe he forgot. Yue Jiannan wouldn¡¯t neglect it, he¡¯s been good to his sister for three years¡ªwho else can do that much?¡±


    Yu¡¯s mother humphed, ¡°That¡¯s as it should be. Our Yaxian is beautiful and studious, what virtues or abilities does Yue Jiannan have?¡±


    But no matter how good he was to his sister, it was all in vain now.


    Yu Siyuan felt a bit of sympathy for Yue Jiannan but ultimately did not express his feelings.


    After all, the scheme was set by the family from the start, and he was one of the beneficiaries.


    Yu¡¯s mother rambled for a while before giving in to curiosity, ¡°Yaxian, why aren¡¯t you saying anything?¡±


    Yu Yaxian replied anxiously, ¡°Mother, Yue Jiannan came to the school to find me.¡±


    ¡°To find you?¡±


    Yu¡¯s mother was about to dismiss the matter, but then she realized something and her eyes widened.


    ¡°He hasn¡¯t found out, has he?¡±


    Yu Yaxian nodded, her voice trembling, ¡°He just happened to see me with Song Qiming.¡±


    ¡°You should have said you were on the way with a classmate.¡±


    ¡°It was too late, and he heard what he shouldn¡¯t have¡ªhe caught us red-handed.¡±


    Seeing her daughter¡¯s panic, Yu¡¯s mother became flustered as well.


    She couldn¡¯t help but curse, ¡°That damned Yue Jiannan! There¡¯s only half a year left, why did he have to go to the school to find you? Didn¡¯t you tell him not to go to the school before?¡±


    ¡°I did, but who knew he would come in this time, and just happen to bump into us.¡±


    Hearing this, Yu¡¯s mother paced back and forth anxiously like an ant on a hot pan.


    After a moment, she gritted her teeth, ¡°Well, why don¡¯t you go find Yue Jiannan and talk to him again?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Yu Yaxian was surprised, ¡°What should I say?¡±


    ¡°Just say you were confused for a moment; there¡¯s not much time left anyway, you need to hold him steady!¡±


    Yu¡¯s mother spoke with certainty, ¡°Right now, the village hasn¡¯t even whispered a word, perhaps the Yue Family isn¡¯t planning to make a big fuss.¡±


    Yu Siyuan also said, ¡°Yes, after all, there¡¯s three years of affection. I think Yue Jiannan is deeply into you, he should be able to forgive you.¡±


    Yu Yaxian bit her lower lip and nodded, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll go try.¡±

 Chapter 164: 164 Yu Yaxians Tears

    Chapter 164: Chapter 164 Yu Yaxian¡¯s Tears


    When Yu Yaxian arrived at the Yue Family¡¯s doorstep, Lin Chunju was sweeping the yard.


    Seeing Lin Chunju¡¯s figure, Yu Yaxian immediately felt a sense of timidity.


    It was rare for someone in the village not to be afraid of the Widow Lin.


    Although Lin Chunju had been kind to her before, Yu Yaxian always felt fear whenever she saw those sharp eyes.


    Especially now that her actions had been exposed, she had no idea how to face her.


    Yu Yaxian swallowed hard and turned to head back home, but was spotted by Lin Chunju, who called out to her.


    ¡°Are you looking for Jiannan?¡±


    Lin Chunju was the most level-headed person in the family, and her face showed no special expression upon seeing Yu Yaxian.


    After all, before everything was clear, the Yue Family hadn¡¯t decided what to do.


    Lin Chunju even thought that, after all, Yu Yaxian was just a young girl.


    If she had uncontrollably fallen for someone else at school, although Jiannan would definitely be heartbroken, it wasn¡¯t necessary to condemn her outright.


    As long as the Yu Family made an apology and returned whatever needed to be returned, that would be the end of it.


    But if this incident was a trap against the Yue Family from the very beginning, then that would be a different matter altogether.


    Hearing Lin Chunju¡¯s voice, Yu Yaxian steeled herself and stepped forward.


    ¡°Auntie Lin, hello, I just got back from school and wanted to ask if Jiannan is at home?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s here. Wait a moment, I¡¯ll go call him.¡±


    Lin Chunju turned to go inside, leaving Yu Yaxian with a churning mix of feelings.


    She hadn¡¯t expected Lin Chunju to react like this. Did this mean that Jiannan had not actually told his family about the incident?


    Yu Yaxian inexplicably felt relieved.


    As soon as Jiannan came out, she immediately approached him as usual, with small dimples appearing on her cheeks.


    ¡°Jiannan, I came to see you.¡±


    Jiannan didn¡¯t speak but stood at the door looking at her.


    Yu Yaxian¡¯s heart pounded, fearing Jiannan would say something he shouldn¡¯t.


    She reached out to hug Jiannan¡¯s arm, tears welling up in her eyes.


    ¡°Can we go out to talk? Just to your fish pond?¡±


    The fish pond was a special place for the two of them, as Jiannan often said it was where they sealed their love.


    Later, when they had their wedding, it would be best to set up a few banquet tables by the pond.


    Each time, Yu Yaxian would pretend to be bashful and tap gently on his chest, and then Jiannan would hold her and kiss her on the lips.


    Now, Yu Yaxian purposely mentioned the fish pond, and Jiannan did indeed sigh and began to walk out with her.


    However, he quickly walked two steps ahead and shook off Yu Yaxian¡¯s hand.


    Yet, Yu Yaxian felt a surge of joy and followed him, matching his pace.


    In the end, they didn¡¯t get to the fish pond. Halfway there, Jiannan asked her,


    ¡°At school, I asked you for an explanation that you didn¡¯t give. Can you explain now?¡±


    With just that one sentence, tears cascaded down Yu Yaxian¡¯s face.


    ¡°Jiannan, I¡¯m sorry, I know I was wrong.¡±


    Jiannan frowned at her, not reaching out to wipe away her tears.


    Yu Yaxian cried even harder, resembling a pear blossom bathed in the rain.


    ¡°The man you saw that day was a senior above me. He didn¡¯t do well on the college entrance exam last year due to some issues, so he repeated a year and is now in my class.¡±


    ¡°I was just consulting with him often at first, since he was also my senior after all. But as time went by, he confessed that he liked me.¡±


    Yu Yaxian sobbed, ¡°I know I¡¯ve wronged you, it¡¯s all my fault, but only now do I realize that you¡¯re the one I love the most.¡±


    Jiannan¡¯s expression remained indifferent, neither believing nor disbelieving as he asked her simply,


    ¡°So what¡¯s the reason for your visit this time? Do you want to break off our engagement or have you already broken things off with him?¡±


    Upon hearing this, Yu Yaxian immediately lifted her head to look at him.


    ¡°Jiannan, I promised to be your wife, don¡¯t you want me anymore?¡±


    Her pitiable appearance was more than most could bear to see.


    What about Jiannan, who had once given her his deep affection?

 Chapter 165: 165 Indifferent

    Chapter 165: Chapter 165 Indifferent


    Yue Jiannan thought about many things from three years ago.


    The girl who had asked him with a smile whether he was interested in her still stood before his eyes.


    But things were different, and people had changed.


    Yue Jiannan looked down at Yu Yaxian and asked her, ¡°Do you really want to make a life together with me?¡±


    Yu Yaxian¡¯s nose turned red as she hurriedly tried to express her feelings, ¡°Of course, I do.¡±


    ¡°But if you get into college, you¡¯ll be one of the elite. How could someone like Yue Jiannan be worthy of you?¡±


    A quick flash of emotion passed through Yu Yaxian¡¯s eyes, but she soon said, ¡°The person I like is you.¡±


    Yue Jiannan gazed at her, not saying another word.


    It was not until Yu Yaxian started to feel a bit panicky that Yue Jiannan hummed a response and asked her again.


    ¡°If we were to have our wedding sooner, would you be willing?¡±


    Yu Yaxian was startled for a moment, ¡°Sooner...¡±


    ¡°Three years ago when we got engaged, it was said that once we were of age and my family had prepared everything promised to your family, we would get married.¡±


    Yu Yaxian was silent, and Yue Jiannan started to calculate for her.


    ¡°I¡¯ve worked hard these three years. My family has also helped a lot. The new house is built, the refrigerator and washing machine are both big brands that everyone in the village praises. All that¡¯s missing is a color TV, and we can go to the city to buy that at any time.¡±


    As he listed these things one by one, Yu Yaxian couldn¡¯t think of an excuse to put it off and could only give a strained smile, ¡°I¡¯m going to be yours sooner or later, what difference does it make if it¡¯s a bit earlier or later? I still have exams in half a year, why not wait until I¡¯ve got the admission notice to do all this?¡±


    ¡°You said it yourself, sooner or later it doesn¡¯t matter, so why can¡¯t we do it now?¡±


    Yu Yaxian¡¯s eyes brimmed with tears, and she bit her lower lip, ¡°Jiannan, we¡¯ve had three years of feelings between us. Don¡¯t you trust me?¡±


    Yue Jiannan watched her react, and suddenly let out a laugh, ¡°Alright then, as you wish.¡±


    He said this and began walking back the way they came.


    Yu Yaxian hurriedly caught up to him in a few quick steps, ¡°Jiannan, are you angry?¡±


    Yue Jiannan walked at an even pace and casually responded, ¡°No.¡±


    But in that moment, he suddenly realized that he had been blinded by so-called love in the past, unable to see many things clearly.


    It was only after truly giving up that he was able to see things for what they were.


    In order to meet the Yu Family¡¯s expectations over these three years, he had shed his lazy habits, leaving home before dawn and returning only after dark.


    Aside from raising fish, he also learned to buy herbs from the villagers like his brother did, to sell in the city.


    Worried about not having anything to talk about with Yu Yaxian, Yue Jiannan would study whenever he had free time, not wanting to become an uneducated brute who couldn¡¯t keep up with his wife.


    However, just then, Yue Jiannan finally couldn¡¯t lie to himself anymore.


    From the beginning, it was likely that Yu Yaxian had never really liked him.


    Yue Jiannan had no regrets about everything he had given. After all, even if it hadn¡¯t been for Yu Yaxian, he would have been just as devoted to anyone else.


    But he couldn¡¯t let his family continue to be deceived alongside him.


    And so, Yue Jiannan walked to his family¡¯s doorstep, with Yu Yaxian relentlessly following him into the courtyard.


    ¡°Jiannan, have you forgiven me?¡±


    After that moment, Yue Jiannan seemed to have completely let go, ¡°It¡¯s almost time for lunch. You should go back early too.¡±


    Yu Yaxian watched Yue Jiannan¡¯s retreating figure as he went inside, her brows furrowed tightly.


    In the past, she had always had control over Yue Jiannan¡¯s emotions, making him happy or sad at her whim.


    Even before coming here, she had been quite confident in her heart.


    But at this moment, Yu Yaxian finally felt that things might no longer be within her control.


    After some thought, she decisively turned and left the Yue Family¡¯s house.


    Since things had turned out this way, there was no sense in continuing to cling to the issue. It would be better to go home early and think of a strategy.

 Chapter 166: 166: Village Gossip

    Chapter 166: Chapter 166: Village Gossip


    The Yu Family had a straightforward and brutal approach, summed up in five words.


    Strike first to gain the advantage.


    Soon, the village was abuzz with many rumors targeting Yue Jiannan.


    That day, as Yue Jiannan was on his way to the fishpond, he noticed that people¡¯s gazes towards him were all off.


    ¡°I really didn¡¯t see this coming, Yue Lao San turns out to be this kind of person.¡±


    ¡°I was wondering why he went to the city every day, thinking he was so lovestruck, but I never expected...¡±


    Yue Jiannan frowned, though he didn¡¯t know exactly what people were whispering about, he keenly sensed their strange glances were all aimed at him.


    Finally, at noon, a close acquaintance specifically came to the fishpond to find him.


    Looking all sneaky, ¡°Tsk tsk, Jiannan, take me with you next time you go to the city.¡±


    Yue Jiannan put down his book, turned his head, and said, ¡°Wei Lao Er, if you want to go to the city, just go by yourself, why do you have to make me take you? Don¡¯t have legs?¡±


    Wei Lao Er chuckled, ¡°I do have legs, but can¡¯t find the way, unlike you who goes often and knows the place like the back of your hand.¡±


    Yue Jiannan slapped him on the back, ¡°Stop beating around the bush, and talk straight.¡±


    Wei Lao Er lowered his voice, ¡°People in the village say they saw you go to the city¡¯s hair-washing salon?¡±


    As he spoke, he made a lewd gesture, clearly indicating this so-called hair-washing salon was no decent place.


    Yue Jiannan was furious, ¡°Bullshit, where did you hear that? It¡¯s all nonsense.¡±


    Wei Lao Er pouted, ¡°Everyone¡¯s saying it, you go to the city so often, clearly not to see Yu Yaxian, but to do that stuff.¡±


    Yue Jiannan realized something was wrong, ¡°Everyone¡¯s saying so?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, if it were false, why hasn¡¯t Yu Yaxian come out to refute it?¡±


    Wei Lao Er got a bit angry too; he had a good relationship with Yue Jiannan, and was upset that he was pretending to be unaware.


    If he was really going to see the Yu girl each time, she would have come out to clarify as soon as she heard the news.


    That morning, a gossipy sister-in-law intentionally pried a few words at the Yu family¡¯s home, and Yu Yaxian immediately had tears in her eyes, still obstinately saying that Yue Jiannan shouldn¡¯t be that kind of person.


    This very attempt to cover up made people all the more convinced of the gossip¡¯s truth.


    Yue Jiannan, who had been calm the day before, was now genuinely angry.


    Did the Yu Family have to be so vile? Did being a man mean he didn¡¯t care about his reputation?


    If Yu Yaxian had respectfully called off the engagement, he would have actually respected her.


    Now, dumping this slander on his head, what was this about?


    Despite his young age, Yue Jiannan couldn¡¯t hold back his anger and made a trip to the Yu Family.


    There he didn¡¯t get to see Yu Yaxian,


    Yu¡¯s mother and father received him, and only served him a cup of cold tea, saying Yu Yaxian was not at home.


    They also skilfully used familiar Tai Chi skills to usher Yue Jiannan back without mentioning the rumors.


    Yue Jiannan returned with his anger unabated.


    No sooner had he left than Yu Yaxian emerged from the inner room, her face covered in tears as she walked around the yard.


    A keen-eyed neighbor noticed that Yu Yaxian¡¯s face was flushed, seemingly marked with a handprint.


    Her arm also bore bruises.


    Seeing the neighborly auntie looking curiously at her, Yu Yaxian immediately covered half her face, managing a forced smile and responded briefly.


    She kept reiterating, every time Yue Jiannan went to the city, it was to see her, and he had never done anything wrong.


    The neighborly auntie nodded significantly and with abundant sympathy.


    Within a couple of days, the news that Yue Jiannan had done misdeeds in the city had been exposed, and he had beaten his fiance?e demanding she insincerely clear his name spread throughout the village.


    The young women of the village were infuriated upon hearing this, wishing they could stab Yue Jiannan with their stares.


    Even the men felt Yue Jiannan was indeed despicable, worrying that the good girl from the Yu Family would end up in a terrible marriage.


    The same Yue Jiannan who had been praised as a good man half a month earlier, quickly became a despised rat in the gutter, everyone after him.


    The villagers unanimously believed that a girl from a distinguished family like Yu Yaxian marrying into the Yue Family was already marrying beneath her, and now she was being subjected to such inhuman treatment.


    Any parent of the Yu Family who cared for their daughter would have ended the engagement with the Yue Family much earlier!

 Chapter 167: 167: Three Men Make a Tiger

    Chapter 167: Chapter 167: Three Men Make a Tiger


    Yue Jiannan¡¯s rumors grew more exaggerated by the day, initially fueled by the Yu Family.


    As time went on, it was the village¡¯s turn to unleash their imagination.


    Someone said they had heard from their second uncle¡¯s daughter-in-law that they saw Yue Jiannan in a city hospital.


    He looked sneaky, too scared to even greet people, clearly suffering from some disgraceful disease.


    There were even claims that Yue Jiannan had been unclear and unclean outside, even having an illegitimate child.


    These rumors were detailed and, despite their absurdity, some people believed them.


    In recent days, various relatives and neighbors from the Yu Family visited, all indirectly advising the mother to call off the arranged marriage.


    Seeing their own daughter about to become a college student, how could she possibly marry a man tainted by disease and unknown promiscuity?


    Mother Yu kept wiping her tears, ¡°Ah, the engagement was set three years ago, how can we just call it off now?¡±


    Yu Yaxian came out at the right moment to speak, and onlookers, seeing the girl¡¯s graceful demeanor, felt even more sympathy for the Yu Family.


    Father Yu sighed next to her, ¡°We drank the engagement wine back then, and we even accepted gifts from the Yue Family, we cannot be those who break promises.¡±


    Someone angrily said, ¡°Nowadays, people who get married get divorced too, isn¡¯t Yue Xiaofang in such a situation? Are you going to push your daughter into a fire pit just for a meager engagement fee?¡±


    The Yu Family members all bowed their heads and said nothing; the villagers could only lament their honesty.


    Zhang Ying and Wang Xiaoni were so angry they felt chest pain, saying initially they were all deceived by Yu Yaxian.


    A beautiful young girl, yet so deadly and decisive.


    According to the malicious behavior of this family, even if Yu Yaxian and the younger son broke off the engagement, the younger son¡¯s reputation would be completely ruined.


    How could he ever find a wife in Daye Village in the future?


    Lin Chunju was also angry, but her mind remained clear, ¡°Let them talk, the bigger the fuss now, the more they will see what the Yu Family tries to do once the truth comes out.¡±


    Zhang Ying quickly went to ask her husband, ¡°How is your inquiry in the city going?¡±


    Yue Jiandong nodded solemnly, ¡°Zheng Tianbo has found some clues, and I have become somewhat acquainted with the lady boss near my neighborhood; it¡¯s just about this week¡¯s effort.¡±


    Zhang Ying knew Yue Jiandong¡¯s character, he would never exaggerate, hearing this she felt a bit relieved.


    But during this period, the Yue Family was simply overwhelmed.


    Various pointing fingers and idle gossip followed them like a shadow, and their family was almost isolated in the village.


    Yue Jianxi was often ridiculed by people around him even in the fields, and some deliberately kicked aside the Yue Family¡¯s farming tools, as if afraid of contagion.


    The matchmaker Dong Cuifen who had initially brought the two families together made a special visit.


    She spoke politely to Lin Chunju, but hinted that the Yue Family should take the initiative to dissolve the marriage to avoid harming the girl.


    Lin Chunju was not annoyed, after all, sending someone away at this time would only provide grist for the rumor mill.


    She just smiled, ¡°Since I was young, I heard the saying ¡®Three men make a tiger,¡¯ and now I have encountered it. Let me put it this way: if the Yu Family wants to break off the engagement, let them come to do it themselves, rather than being hermits at home and using the villagers as their tools.¡±


    Dong Cuifen was choked up, yet had no way to refute.


    She also felt it was quite meaningless to eagerly plead on behalf of the Yu Family.


    ¡°Now that I have your word, I am reassured. I will go back and ask the Yu Family.¡±


    As for the Yu Family, they naturally did not dare confront the Yue Family face-to-face; if word got out that they were at fault, the public sentiment would definitely turn against them.


    Moreover, if they initiated the divorce, they would have to return the money from the Yue Family.


    The three hundred yuan for the engagement was definitely to be returned, and the tuition and living expenses that Yue Jiannan paid for Yu Yaxian¡¯s education over the years were probably unavoidable...


    However, Mother Yu had her calculations; with the Yue Family inflexible and unwilling to visit to terminate the marriage, could they withstand the saliva dousing their heads?


    Moreover, could the adults in the family endure this, let alone the children?

 Chapter 168: 168 Bullying Yue Xingxing

    Chapter 168: Chapter 168 Bullying Yue Xingxing


    Just as Mother Yu had anticipated, the adults of the Yue Family had indeed lived through the darkest days.


    The idle gossip, however harsh, couldn¡¯t cause much harm as long as they were ignored.


    But the children lacked such strong psychological resilience.


    That day, Yue Xingxing returned home earlier than dinnertime.


    Lin Chunju found this odd and asked, ¡°Xingxing, why didn¡¯t you go to school?¡±


    Although not many families in the village valued education, there was still a simple schoolhouse.


    Lin Chunju had sent Xingxing to school as soon as she was old enough.


    Yue Xingxing was a well-behaved child and had never skipped classes like the other kids.


    Yue Xingxing shook her head haphazardly, ¡°Grandma, it¡¯s nothing. I just don¡¯t feel quite well today.¡±


    As Lin Chunju was about to question further, Yue Xingxing ran back into her room.


    The old Yue family home had been expanded over the past three years, much larger than before, allowing the three children to each have their own room.


    Though small, these were their domains, and Lin Chunju required everyone to knock before entering anyone¡¯s room.


    ¡°Qingqing!¡±


    Lin Chunju called Yue Qingqing out of her room and shared her concerns about Yue Xingxing¡¯s unusual behavior.


    ¡°Help me find out what¡¯s really going on,¡± she said.


    Yue Qingqing agreed and went to Yue Xingxing¡¯s door, gently knocking.


    No one responded, so Yue Qingqing tentatively pushed the door open a crack and peeked inside.


    She saw Yue Xingxing with her face buried in the pillow, soaked with tears.


    ¡°Sister, why are you crying?¡± Yue Qingqing hurried to the bedside.


    Upon hearing her voice, Yue Xingxing lifted her head and hastily wiped her cheeks.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine. I¡¯m just feeling a bit down,¡± she mumbled.


    Yue Qingqing, though pampered as a child, had grown to become more sister-like with age.


    Kicking off her shoes, Yue Qingqing jumped onto the bed and cajoled, ¡°Tell me, you¡¯re even keeping it from me now?¡±


    Looking at Qingqing¡¯s demeanor, Yue Xingxing¡¯s eyes reddened again, threatening more tears.


    Startled, Yue Qingqing promptly embraced her, patting her back gently with small hands, and whispered in imitation of Zhang Ying, ¡°Don¡¯t cry, don¡¯t cry, I¡¯m here.¡±


    Yue Xingxing sniffed and immediately felt embarrassed.


    Thinking that Qingqing was still young and might not understand, she decided to confide in her a bit.


    ¡°The children at school are talking about our family, saying really nasty things, cursing grandma, cursing my uncle, cursing my aunt, and more...¡±


    Yue Xingxing, influenced by her family since childhood, couldn¡¯t bring herself to repeat the swear words.


    Those children, repeating what they heard from their parents, said that Lin Chunju was a hard-luck widow, Yue Jiannan was shamelessly philandering, and that he, a toad, was lusting after the swan meat of Yu Yaxian.


    They also said Yue Xiaofang was disgraceful for being sent back home by her husband.


    Most despicable was Wang Caidie, no, she was now Zhang Caidie.


    They claimed her former father, Wang Jinshun, was framed by the Yue family, that he was still in prison, and wouldn¡¯t be released until next month.


    It was bad enough they insulted others, but Zhang Caidie also called her little sister an unwanted mongrel, unknown whose child she was, tossed away and picked up by the Yue family as though a treasure, when in fact she was nothing but a jinx.


    Yue Xingxing dared not relay these words to Yue Qingqing; in her memory, her sister had always been by her side, how could she be the mongrel they spoke of?


    It was because of this that Yue Xingxing didn¡¯t believe a word they said, seeing it as sheer fabrication.


    Yue Qingqing, being playful and cute, continued to comfort her before going to explain the situation to Lin Chunju.


    Lin Chunju was truly angered and discussed the matter with Yue Jiandong after dinner.


    ¡°We¡¯ve been ignoring the past rumors, but when it comes to the children, it can be most cruel. If Xingxing is being bullied, the scars can last a lifetime,¡± she said.


    ¡°I¡¯ll keep her home from school for the time being. We must get to the bottom of this as soon as possible!¡±


    Yue Jiandong responded gravely, ¡°Mother, don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ve nearly finished investigating, and I¡¯m heading into town tomorrow just for this reason!¡±

 Chapter 169: 169: The Hidden Truth from Three Years Ago

    Chapter 169: Chapter 169: The Hidden Truth from Three Years Ago


    Yue Jiandong set out before dawn that day.


    Yue Qingqing originally wanted to go into the city together.


    But she got up early, only to find she¡¯d missed the chance, not catching a glimpse of her father¡¯s shadow.


    Fortunately, it wasn¡¯t dusk yet when Yue Jiandong returned.


    Yue Jiannan hurriedly poured a glass of water for his brother, who tilted his head back and gulped it down.


    Yue Jiannan felt somewhat guilty, realizing his elder brother must have been exhausted from traveling on his behalf, without even taking time for a drink.


    Seeing his expression, Yue Jiandong patted Yue Jiannan on the shoulder, as if to say there was no need for many words between brothers.


    Lin Chunju urged, ¡°Stop being so ceremonious, brotherly love can wait. Just tell us what you¡¯ve found out!¡±


    Yue Qingqing also dragged a small stool over to sit by, waiting to hear what had actually happened.


    Yue Jiannan announced his investigative conclusions, which he had pieced together from what Zheng Tianbo and the tavern owner¡¯s wife had said.


    It was not far from the truth.


    Three years ago, Yu Yaxian¡¯s uncle got into trouble for fighting and nearly blinding someone, which could have landed him in prison for years if reported to the police.


    Yu Yaxian¡¯s uncle wanted to settle the matter privately, but the other party demanded an exorbitant sum of 3,000 yuan.


    Even now, there wasn¡¯t a family in the village worth ten thousand, and although the city was wealthier, 3,000 yuan was not an amount a typical family could afford.


    Though Yu Yaxian¡¯s uncle had moved to the city because of a worker¡¯s quota and became the envy of the village, he could not come up with such a large sum of money.


    He had to beg the Yu Family, which was well off, and Yu Yaxian¡¯s mother, who enjoyed helping her brother, led the family to discuss and decide to sell many valuables in the city, but it still wasn¡¯t enough.


    Yu¡¯s mother then thought of selling some of the farmland, which immediately caused uproar amongst the family men, big and small.


    Yu Deyou was not willing to bankrupt the family for his brother-in-law, and Yu Siyuan was even more adamant that future farmland would be his inheritance. He felt that, even though the uncle was family, his own interests were paramount.


    The image of father and son Yu standing adamantly in front of Yu Yaxian¡¯s uncle¡¯s house, demanding accountability, was still fresh in the tavern owner¡¯s wife¡¯s memory.


    In the eyes of the Yu men, selling the mother¡¯s dowry lands was one thing, but selling their own farmland was absolutely out of the question!


    But Yu¡¯s mother, in modern terms, was a complete ¡°brother-obsessed demon.¡±


    She wept silently at home every day, recounting the care her brother had shown her when they were younger, which distressed the entire family, ruining their meals.


    The Yus only had Yu Yaxian in support of their mother, but Yue Jiandong suspected it wasn¡¯t out of familial affection, but because her uncle had an urban residence permit.


    Without that permit, which allowed Yu Yaxian to study in the city, her education would likely be interrupted if her uncle went to jail.


    After much family tug-of-war, the Yus secretly sold more inherited valuables and finally raised the needed amount.


    The Yu Family had become like ¡°donkey droppings¡± ¨C all shine on the outside.


    Apart from the farmland, there was hardly anything of value left in the house.


    The farm would not yield until autumn, but they couldn¡¯t even afford seeds and pesticides in the meantime.


    Yu Yaxian also needed to continue her education, which was another significant expense.


    The Yus were proud and had sold their possessions secretly in the city, maintaining their appearance as the village¡¯s prominent household to outsiders.


    Nobody knows whose idea it was, but they decided to exploit Yu Yaxian¡¯s marriage prospects.


    They arranged an early marriage for their daughter, taking a substantial amount of money to cover the family¡¯s expenses, while also finding a fool to pay for her tuition and living costs.


    The Yu Family¡¯s calculations were clear, and they somehow thought of the Yue Family.


    According to Yue Jiandong¡¯s guess, the Yus saw the Yue Family¡¯s sudden wealth and believed they could come up with the hefty sum.


    They probably felt that marrying Yu Yaxian off to them was beneath her and expected the Yue Family to agree readily and comply with their demands.


    After all is said and done, the most important reason was that the Yue Family was made up of honest people.


    Honest people are easy to bully.


    By stalling with various demands, the Yus aimed to wait until their daughter finished her exams and became a city dweller, then marry her off to another city resident.


    It followed naturally that they would break things off with Yue Jiannan.


    And how would they handle it if things got awkward with the Yue Family? Isn¡¯t the answer clear from what the Yus are currently doing?

 Chapter 170: 170: Yu Mus Determination

    Chapter 170: Chapter 170: Yu Mu¡¯s Determination


    Yue Jiandong, after years of experience, had long ceased to be nai?ve.


    Basically, from the gathered clues, one could almost pinpoint the thoughts of the Yu family.


    This matter indeed turned out to be a conspiracy from the beginning to the end.


    Yue Jiannan slammed the table furiously, ¡°This is utterly shameless!¡±


    His sincere heart, however, had been exploited in someone else¡¯s scheming.


    Wang Xiaoni looked at him with sympathy, and Yue Jianxi exchanged glances and shook their heads.


    Xiaofang, who had always protected her brother, said angrily, ¡°The Yu family has gone too far, I must confront them for an explanation.¡±


    Zhang Ying sighed, ¡°It¡¯s useless, it¡¯s been three years, we have no evidence if we confront them now.¡±


    But Yue Jiandong suddenly interjected, ¡°How can there be no evidence?¡±


    Zhang Ying looked at him perplexedly, ¡°What evidence? It¡¯s been so long.¡±


    ¡°We may have no physical evidence, but we can find witnesses.¡±


    The crowd was enlightened.


    Lin Chunju nodded, ¡°The boss is right, now that the Yu family has done such a dirty deed, it means they are panicked, and the more panicked they are, the more likely they are to slip up.¡±


    Otherwise, why would they desperately seek a cure?


    The crowd nodded unanimously, and Yue Jiannan said with shame, ¡°Ah, because of my issue, the entire family is burdened.¡±


    Xiaofang frowned, pretending to be annoyed, ¡°We are all family, isn¡¯t saying that slapping our faces, Young Third?¡±


    Yue Jiannan then hastily apologized, and Lin Chunju watched with an additional sigh.


    The Yue family faced many difficulties, but no matter how tough the situation, as long as everyone was united, they could always find a way through.


    This was also the reason the Yue family could climb out of the mire.


    If it were like many families that are not harmonious, constantly falling out over in-law issues, no matter what they tried, nothing would be successful.


    A harmonious family leads to prosperity in all things.


    The Yu family had not expected the Yue family to endure so much, thinking that the village gossip was so bad, even preventing Yue Xingxing from going to school.


    Lin Chunju had to confront them no matter what to break off the engagement, but she waited two or three days without any news.


    Gossip is like a knife that can kill, but it can¡¯t literally hold a blade to someone¡¯s neck.


    The Yue brothers did what they had to do, completely disregarding others¡¯ looks, which actually made the Yu family anxious.


    Yu Yaxian was about to go to the city for school, and she discussed with her mother before leaving.


    ¡°Now Song Qiming has started to suspect me, and it¡¯s taken me a lot of effort to pacify him. Now that we¡¯ve openly fallen out with the Yue family, yet they refuse to break off the engagement, what if the college senior hears about these rumors? How can I continue with him thereafter?¡±


    Although Song Qiming did not get into college last year for various reasons, Yu Yaxian was very confident in him, convinced that he would be admitted this year.


    Moreover, the Song family was also considered wealthy in the city, far beyond the humble rural origins of the Yue family.


    Yu Yaxian was unwilling to give up such a favorable marriage.


    Yu¡¯s mother furrowed her brow, originally thinking to let her daughter stabilize Yue Jiannan first to smoothly get through this period.


    After all, once Yu Yaxian got into college and married Song Qiming, their family could move into the city and naturally break ties with the Yue family. No matter how bad the villagers spoke, it wouldn¡¯t matter.


    But being stuck in limbo was always worrisome.


    After much thought, Yu¡¯s mother made up her mind, ¡°Then you need to find a way to bind him to you.¡±


    Yu Yaxian was initially confused, but upon meeting her mother¡¯s gaze, she understood and blushed.


    ¡°But I¡¯m not yet married to Song Senior.¡±


    Yu¡¯s mother patted her daughter¡¯s hand, ¡°Men always cherish their first woman a bit more. Once you¡¯ve given yourself to him, even if he knows anything, it won¡¯t matter; you¡¯ll already belong to him.¡±


    Yu Yaxian thought for a while and finally nodded.


    ¡°Then... I¡¯ll try.¡±

 Chapter 171: 171: Leaving Evidence

    Chapter 171: Chapter 171: Leaving Evidence


    That day, Yue Jiandong took his little treasure into the city, but not to deliver goods.


    Upon arriving in the city, Yue Jiandong headed straight for the photo studio.


    The owner of the photo studio warmly received them. ¡°Big Brother, are you here for photos? Your girl is so pretty, she¡¯ll definitely look like a little model in pictures.¡±


    Yue Jiandong smiled and said, ¡°I do want a keepsake, but I don¡¯t plan to shoot indoors. I want to take her to the park for the photos.¡±


    Such a request wasn¡¯t strange at all, and the owner immediately understood.


    ¡°Big Brother, do you want to rent a camera? We have Seagull and Phoenix brand cameras, as well as some imported from abroad. Do you have any experience with photography?¡±


    Yue Jiandong shook his head, and the owner recommended another model to him.


    ¡°Then use the foolproof Franca camera, you just press the shutter, and since the little girl is beautiful, the shots will be great no matter what.¡±


    The owner handed the camera to Yue Jiandong with great care.


    Yue Jiandong checked the location of the shutter button; it really was very convenient.


    ¡°Alright, then this one.¡±


    ¡°No problem. But I have to make it clear, the camera uses film which costs seventeen yuan per roll. If you get it developed here, I can give you a discount and only charge you ten yuan.¡±


    ¡°Return the camera before two in the afternoon to be charged for a half-day¡¯s rental, any later and you¡¯ll be charged for a full day.¡±


    Yue Jiandong agreed to each point, and after paying a deposit at the counter, he put the camera into the bag that the owner provided and hung it around his neck.


    Encountering such a generous and non-haggling customer, the photo studio owner¡¯s face was full of smiles.


    ¡°Take care now. Oh, and remember to keep the film inside the camera. If it gets exposed to light, it can¡¯t be developed.¡±


    Yue Jiandong asked about a few other things to be mindful of; luckily, a foolproof camera is specifically made for people who don¡¯t know a thing about photography. It¡¯s not difficult to use.


    It just uses up film; every press of the shutter button burns money.


    But for his brother¡¯s affair, Yue Jiandong wouldn¡¯t fret about the expense.


    Yue Jiandong pulled the photo studio owner to the doorway and squatted down to take a picture of Yue Qingqing.


    Yue Qingqing stood by the tree, smiling with crescent eyes when she heard a click.


    The owner nodded and leaned in to check, ¡°That¡¯s right. Just like that.¡±


    Feeling reassured, Yue Jiandong carried his daughter and did a little hop-skip toward the gate of First Middle School.


    Yue Qingqing and her dad lurked around the school with the camera as a cover, not looking out of place.


    A teacher just happened to exit the school and gave a knowing smile upon seeing this scene.


    ¡°Bringing your daughter to see her future school?¡±


    Before Yue Jiandong could speak, Yue Qingqing said out loud, ¡°Dad wants me to study hard so I can attend school here later.¡±


    The teacher found her well-behaved appearance endearing and was instantly delighted.


    ¡°Don¡¯t just photograph outside the gate, you can come in for a visit too. Take more pictures of the child at school.¡±


    With permission granted, Yue Jiandong proudly led his daughter into the campus.


    As fate would have it, not long after they entered the campus, they happened to see Yu Yaxian and Song Qiming being affectionate under a willow tree.


    Yue Jiandong quickly hid behind a flowerbed with his daughter, and Yue Qingqing popped out her little head to observe the situation.


    With her keen senses, she clearly heard every word the two said.


    Clearly, Yu Yaxian was very skillful, sweet-talking Song Qiming into complete submission.


    The two happened to mention Yue Jiannan, with Song Qiming¡¯s face showing nothing but pity.


    ¡°It¡¯s your kind heart. Someone pestering you like that, is just a toad lusting after a swan¡¯s flesh. From now on, don¡¯t give him a nice face just because he¡¯s a fellow villager.¡±


    Yu Yaxian played the victim, ¡°I know, I only have you in my heart anyway.¡±


    Song Qiming then held her hand, ¡°Once our college entrance exams are over, I¡¯ll take you home to meet my parents.¡±


    ¡°Senior Song, you¡¯re so good to me. I really want to marry you soon.¡±


    The two began to embrace and cuddle right there on the school grounds, and with Song Qiming¡¯s youthful vigor, he quickly became overwhelmed by Yu Yaxian¡¯s deliberate teasing.


    Click, click.


    Yue Jiandong secretly took pictures of this scene with his camera.


    At the sound of the shutter, however, he shrank his neck, worried that he might startle them.


    Unknown to him, his daughter had already set up a barrier; not even the sound of thunder would disturb the couple, let alone the camera¡¯s shutter noise.


    After some affectionate moments, Yu Yaxian, her cheeks flushed, clung to Song Qiming¡¯s waist.


    ¡°Senior Song, I heard that your aunt recently bought you an apartment near the school. Could you take me for a visit?¡±


    Song Qiming caught on immediately, eager to hold Yu Yaxian¡¯s hand.


    ¡°We have a break coming up at noon. Why don¡¯t I take you there to rest a bit?¡±


    Yu Yaxian bashfully nodded her head, and the two walked towards the school exit.


    Yue Jiandong, unable to hear their conversation, was somewhat puzzled.


    Yue Qingqing tugged at her dad¡¯s sleeve, ¡°Dad, let¡¯s follow them!¡±

 Chapter 172: 172: Developing Film

    Chapter 172: Chapter 172: Developing Film


    The two of them walked and stopped, secretly following Yu Yaxian and Song Qiming.


    Whenever a passerby glanced their way, Yue Qingqing immediately struck a photo pose, while Yue Jiandong pretended to lift his camera.


    In this way, they managed to bluff their way through and followed him to the alley where Song Qiming lived.


    Song Qiming¡¯s family indeed had money, having bought him a house with a yard rather than an apartment building.


    This also conveniently allowed Yue Jiandong to hide around the corner to take photos.


    Standing at the front of the yard, Yu Yaxian looked up at Song Qiming¡¯s house, visibly more agitated.


    Song Qiming was agitated in another way.


    He had been with Yu Yaxian for some time now, and her attitude towards him had always been a game of hard to get.


    The two had hugged and kissed, but they had never gone all the way.


    He had never expected that today Yu Yaxian would clearly reveal such intentions, and as a man, there was no reason for him not to agree.


    Seeing Song Qiming¡¯s eager appearance, Yu Yaxian let out a sigh of relief and cooed, ¡°Senior, you know I¡¯m not that kind of girl, it¡¯s just because I like you so much that I...¡±


    Song Qiming immediately nodded and said, ¡°We¡¯ve known each other for so long, don¡¯t I know what kind of person you are? Don¡¯t worry, I will definitely take responsibility.¡±


    All Yu Yaxian wanted was this promise, and she weakly snuggled into Song Qiming¡¯s arms.


    ¡°Senior, then you have to treat me well.¡±


    With a beauty in his arms, Song Qiming had no ration left and wished he could seal the deal sooner.


    In a flurry, he vowed, ¡°Yaxian, don¡¯t worry, I swear I will never leave you, otherwise let me be unlucky forever and never graduate from college.¡±


    Yu Yaxian nodded with satisfaction, ¡°Me too, let¡¯s never part in our lifetime.¡±


    No sooner had she spoken than Song Qiming scooped her up and carried her into the house.


    Click, this moment was fully recorded by a simple camera.


    Yue Qingqing also pinched a spell, and a grey chain invisible to mortals tightly wrapped around Yu Yaxian and Song Qiming.


    Several golden seals were attached to it.


    It was the familiar Heart-Seeking Curse, but this time Yue Qingqing did not activate the Curse Technique immediately; instead, she temporarily sealed it.


    Just waiting for the day to unveil it.


    She could see that Yu Yaxian and Song Qiming were both using each other, each with their own agendas.


    The two were now enamored, but when their interests clashed one day, would they still be as sweet as they are now?


    When the Heart-Seeking Curse activates then, they would truly be inseparable for life, and then there would be quite a drama.


    Yue Jiandong patted the little one¡¯s head, ¡°What are you daydreaming about? Let¡¯s find a place to develop the film.¡±


    Yue Qingqing touched her head innocently, pouting as she followed her dad.


    What daydreaming, I am clearly doing something serious.


    Yue Jiandong found another small photo studio and paid extra to rush the development of the film.


    After all, if the owner of the rental camera saw the contents, he would definitely become suspicious.


    Yue Qingqing played the innocent sidekick, innocently asking Yue Jiandong.


    ¡°Dad, weren¡¯t you taking pictures of me? Why did we come to sister¡¯s school?¡±


    Yue Jiandong answered in a furious tone, ¡°If I hadn¡¯t come, I wouldn¡¯t have known that she¡¯s not studying daily, but romancing instead.¡±


    After coming out of the dark room, the master sympathetically patted Yue Jiandong¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°Girls grow up, sigh, let her be, doesn¡¯t our country advocate free love now?¡±


    Yet inside, he sneered, thinking the girl in the pictures was too shameless; if it were his daughter, he would probably be extremely angry.


    Yue Jiandong sighed heavily as he pocketed the photo and hurriedly went to return the camera.

 Chapter 173: 173: Complete Falling Out

    Chapter 173: Chapter 173: Complete Falling Out


    After returning home, Yue Jiandong placed the photos on the table.


    His photography skills were mediocre, but at least the foolproof camera could autofocus, and the faces of the two people were clearly captured.


    Some photos showed the two of them head to head, talking on campus, others displayed them holding hands as they walked down the street.


    There were even pictures of the pair embracing in front of a residence and Song Qiming lifting Yu Yaxian up.


    Zhang Ying and Wang Xiaoni, both traditional women from the village, picked them up, glanced at them a few times, and immediately blushed and put them back.


    Lin Chunju examined each photo carefully under the oil lamp, with Yue Xiaofang also sitting beside her, looking on.


    Yue Jiannan picked up a photo of Yu Yaxian and Song Qiming hugging each other and frowned without saying a word.


    Although he told himself to let go every day, his heart still felt a sting at the unexpected sight of this scene.


    Yue Xingxing and Yue Xiaohu wanted to look at the photos, but the adults in the family took them away.


    Wang Xiaoni earnestly educated them, ¡°You can¡¯t look at these, looking will give you sties.¡±


    Yue Xingxing nodded obediently, indicating she absolutely wouldn¡¯t look.


    Yue Xiaohu asked loudly, ¡°What¡¯s a sty?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll know when you grow up, but either way, you can¡¯t look, or else you won¡¯t get any meat tonight.¡±


    Yue Xiaohu immediately dared not get any closer, indifferent to whether he would get a sty or not, but meat was something he couldn¡¯t go without.


    Yue Xiaofang asked her mother, ¡°Now that we have the photos in hand, when should we go to the Yu family?¡±


    Lin Chunju smiled coldly, ¡°No rush, now that Yu Yaxian has given herself to someone else, the Yu family must feel they have something to rely on. I guess once they get the news, they¡¯ll try to force the Yue family into breaking off the marriage.¡±


    Yue Jiandong immediately said, ¡°I¡¯ll bring that person over first.¡±


    Lin Chunju nodded her head and instructed Zhang Ying and Wang Xiaoni.


    ¡°Clean out the storage room in the next two days to make a guest room, we will have visitors.¡±


    Both of them nodded and immediately turned to get busy.


    Just as Lin Chunju expected, once Yu Yaxian had someone bring a letter back, the heart of Yu mother became active.


    The family sat together, discussing.


    ¡°Yaxian wrote in her letter that Song Qiming¡¯s family is really rich. The house he bought for her is so big and even has a yard, it can¡¯t be secured in the city without spending thousands of dollars.¡±


    Yu Siyuan¡¯s eyes gleamed, excitedly saying, ¡°Anyway, now that my sister is his person, and they are of age, just let them go register their marriage.¡±


    From this point, it was clear that the Yu family¡¯s minds were sharper than those in the village.


    While the villagers were still stuck on the idea that having a wedding banquet makes a couple, Yu Siyuan already understood the concept of legally binding someone.


    Yu mother sighed, ¡°If you can think of this, do you think Yaxian hasn¡¯t? But Song Qiming has said, they will definitely get married, but they have to meet the parents first. After all, they are still studying.¡±


    Yu Deyou said with indifference, ¡°Anyway, it¡¯s come to this, would that boy dare to abandon my daughter? I¡¯d post big-character posters on their door if he does.¡±


    Yu Siyuan glanced at his father, ¡°We have to be careful, lest we get played by them.¡±


    He didn¡¯t dare to say that his own family was playing the Yue family just like that.


    The Yue family provided both money and effort, and over the years, without any guilt, Yu mother and father made use of Yue Jiannan as a son-in-law, for which Yue Jiannan had expended so much energy.


    A rough estimate totaled the fish, shrimp, and ducks sent over to be over a hundred kilograms.


    But in the end, didn¡¯t they come away empty-handed? No, that¡¯s wrong, Yue Jiannan earned himself a bad reputation.


    Hearing the unspoken words in her son¡¯s comment, Yu mother snorted coldly, ¡°What do you mean by that? Your sister is so smart, could she be outplayed by someone? Don¡¯t stick your elbows out.¡±


    After saying that, she added ominously, ¡°If things go smoothly with Yaxian¡¯s affair, we should completely break with the Yue family.¡±


    Previously, she had contemplated leaving a way out, but seeing her daughter was about to marry into the city, Yu mother no longer bothered to interact with the Yue family.

 Chapter 174: 174: Breaking Off the Engagement

    Chapter 174: Chapter 174: Breaking Off the Engagement


    Yu¡¯s mother quickly made a decision and had someone send a letter to the city.


    That day, Daye Village had an unexpected visitor.


    Yu Yaxian¡¯s uncle¡ªTao Huamao.


    Tao Huamao, originally from Daye Village, had moved to the city after being selected as a worker, so he still had some acquaintances in the village.


    As soon as he entered the village, he hurried to the Yu Family to accuse them with great fury.


    ¡°I saw Yue Jiannan in the city, flirting with some woman. And you want to marry my niece to that kind of man?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care about any engagement; I just know that my niece is a living person. I¡¯ll pay the three hundred yuan for the engagement if I must, but I can¡¯t just watch as Yaxian is thrown into the fire pit.¡±


    ¡°She is supposed to be a college student. Yue Jiannan did such things, is he worthy of her?¡±


    The noise quickly alerted the neighbors.


    Stepping outside, they saw Yu¡¯s parents being scolded, their faces flushed red, while Yu¡¯s mother wiped her tears and argued.


    ¡°Ah, the engagement is already set, how can we call it off? Wouldn¡¯t that let others point fingers at us?¡±


    Soon, a familiar neighbor persuaded, ¡°I think her uncle has a point. If anyone has broken their promise, it would be the Yue Family, who engaged Yaxian but allowed Yue Jiannan to do such things.¡±


    Yu¡¯s mother sighed heavily, seemingly persuaded.


    So it was that Tao Huamao led a group march to the Yue Family¡¯s home.


    In his anger, Tao Huamao kicked open the gate of the Yue family courtyard.


    This startled Yue Xingxing and Yue Xiaohu, who were in the courtyard.


    They shouted for their grandma and hurried back inside the house.


    Only Yue Qingqing moved a small stool to a corner with interest and sat down to watch the drama unfold.


    ¡°Yue Jiannan, come out here!¡±


    Tao Huamao yelled loudly, which drew the surrounding neighbors out.


    Due to Yue Jiannan¡¯s recent reputation, the onlookers showed understanding glances.


    Break off the engagement? It should have been done sooner, considering what Yue Jiannan is like.


    The fool had been pretending for years, seemingly often going to the city to bring things to Yu Yaxian, but he was so vile behind the scenes.


    Many young women looked on with disdain; they had once thought Yue Jiannan was one of the best men around, but now felt they had been blind.


    ¡°You shameless thing, why don¡¯t you tell us all just what you¡¯ve done, and you still want to marry my niece?¡±


    ¡°Pah! What are you worth?¡±


    ¡°Come out here, I am here today to break this engagement and give your family back the three hundred yuan!¡±


    The Yu Family, ever calculating, mentioned only the three hundred yuan for the engagement and completely ignored the money Yue Jiannan had spent over the years to support Yu Yaxian¡¯s university education and the gifts he gave to the Yu family.


    After all, these villagers probably didn¡¯t know about that.


    Tao Huamao cursed several times, and finally, Yue Jiannan pushed open the door.


    As soon as he appeared, he was greeted with a circle of spit.


    ¡°Pah, shameless!¡±


    ¡°Anyone with any shame would have broken off the engagement themselves, not wait for others to come knocking.¡±


    Hearing the surround voices, Tao Huamao felt even more certain about today¡¯s actions.


    ¡°Yue Jiannan, we all know what you did in the city, I will definitely not let my niece marry a beast like you.¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Yue Jiannan even had a smile at the corner of his mouth, appearing quite relaxed.


    Despite his doubts, Tao Huamao looked even angrier and was about to roll up his sleeves as if he was ready to beat Yue Jiannan.


    But he was stopped by the Yu family members.


    Yu¡¯s mother whispered persuasively, ¡°Jiannan, consider that my daughter and you are not fated to be together. I¡¯ve already put my pride aside to break this engagement... I hope you can find someone more suitable in the future.¡±


    The villagers collectively scoffed, wondering who would be blind enough to marry their daughter to Yue Jiannan.


    Yue Jiannan, as if he hadn¡¯t noticed the disapproval from everyone else, just stared at Tao Huamao.


    ¡°Since the Yu Family has even brought Yaxian¡¯s uncle today, fine, I was just thinking it¡¯s also time for you to meet someone.¡±

 Chapter 175: 175: Seeing Is Believing

    Chapter 175: Chapter 175: Seeing Is Believing


    Things hadn¡¯t developed as she predicted, and Yu¡¯s mother¡¯s breath hitched.


    The doors of the Yue Family swung open once more, and Lin Chunju and others emerged one by one, but the last to step out was a face unfamiliar to most.


    Tao Huamao¡¯s complexion dramatically changed, and he couldn¡¯t help but take two steps back.


    The newcomer had fairly regular features, except for his eyes, which looked odd.


    One was wide open and angry, while the other drooped as if it couldn¡¯t close, squinting into a mere slit.


    This person stared at Tao Huamao and took steps toward him.


    With each step he took, Tao Huamao stepped back, as though he had seen a ghost.


    Indeed, Tao Huamao had once been forced by this man to sell all the valuables from his and his sister¡¯s homes, nearly losing his house and his worker¡¯s quota as well.


    In Tao Huamao¡¯s eyes, this man named Gun Ming was far more terrifying than any specter.


    ¡°It¡¯s been nearly three years, hasn¡¯t it, Tao Huamao? Do you still recognize me? When you blinded one of my eyes, I only made you pay three thousand yuan; considering that, you got off quite cheaply.¡±


    Tao Huamao didn¡¯t dare say a word, for fear that Gun Ming might bring up the past and ask him for money again.


    The villagers were astounded when they heard the figure of three thousand yuan.


    ¡°Three thousand yuan? How could Tao Huamao come up with such an amount? Is that what he earns as a worker in the city?¡±


    ¡°Impossible, his salary is only about sixty yuan a month, isn¡¯t it? It¡¯s higher than what people in the village earn, but he couldn¡¯t possibly have that much money.¡±


    The Yu Family was thrown into disarray upon unexpectedly encountering Gun Ming; even the quick-witted Yu mother was left speechless.


    The shadow Gun Ming had cast over them was indeed too deep.


    Lin Chunju stared straight at Yu¡¯s mother, ¡°Three years ago, the Yu Family sold all their valuables to scrape together money for Tao Huamao, and then came up with the idea of a deceitful marriage, knocking on the Yue Family¡¯s door to be their scapegoat.¡±


    ¡°For the past three years, it was Yue Jiannan who paid for Yu Yaxian¡¯s education and living expenses. Now, with their daughter about to attend college, they have the audacity to spread rumors in the village, using such low tactics to break off the engagement.¡±


    ¡°Tch, every person in the Yu Family has a heart blackened through and through. If it weren¡¯t for the third brother visiting the school and just so happening to witness Yu Yaxian getting cozy with someone else, we would¡¯ve been kept in the dark still.¡±


    Yu¡¯s mother¡¯s face turned iron blue, ¡°You¡¯re spouting nonsense, don¡¯t try to pin this on my family.¡±


    But seeing Tao Huamao¡¯s cringing demeanor, the crowd felt that the story was very likely true.


    Just a moment ago, he had come busting in full of bluster, but now he wished he could shrink away like a turtle retreating into its shell.


    That was precisely why Yue Jiandong had insisted on bringing Gun Ming to the village.


    Disputing with mere evidence, the Yu Family might have retorted sharply.


    But faced with the person they had wronged three years prior, it would be difficult for them to lie with their eyes open.


    Yue Jiandong started to tally the debts with the Yu Family.


    ¡°Not counting what my brother sent to your family over these three years, just the money spent on Yu Yaxian¡¯s schooling and living amounts to three to four hundred. Not to mention all the gifts he brought each time for Yu Yaxian and the Yu family. Now, with a mere mention of a three-hundred yuan engagement gift, you think you can wipe the slate clean? Where in the world does it work that easily?¡±


    The house of the Yue Family used high-quality materials, and the furniture inside was made from expensive wood, not to mention the presence of a refrigerator and washing machine.


    Thinking of this shifted the villagers¡¯ sympathies slowly toward the Yue Family.


    The neighbors of the Yu Family suddenly had a moment of clarity, recalling that no one had actually witnessed the rumors they initially heard.


    Including the time they went to inquire by themselves, they had only noticed the bruises on Yu Yaxian¡¯s arm that she purposefully revealed.


    But as for the actual truth, nobody really knew.


    It was the evasive attitudes of the Yu Family that had led everyone on.


    Gathering her courage, Yu¡¯s mother attempted to justify, ¡°Even if we did pay someone three years ago, what does that have to do with our engagement to your family? You even dare to slander my daughter¡¯s reputation; you¡¯re utterly heartless.¡±


    ¡°Slander your daughter¡¯s reputation?¡±


    Yue Jiannan suddenly burst into laughter and pulled out a stack of photographs from his chest,


    scattering them into the crowd like confetti.


    ¡°They say seeing is believing, so let¡¯s let everyone take a good look for themselves!¡±

 Chapter 176: 176 The Yu Family Plays Dirty

    Chapter 176: Chapter 176 The Yu Family Plays Dirty


    Yu Siyuan was the closest to the crowd when he picked up a photo from the ground, his face turned pale immediately.


    ¡°Dad, Mom, the people on this...¡±


    He brought it over to his parents, and it was indeed a picture of his own daughter embraced with a man.


    Yu¡¯s mother clutched her chest as darkness flickered before her eyes.


    The villagers also picked up the photos, unable to help but inhale sharply.


    Although photos had only recently become common, the villagers often gathered to watch TV and were aware of what they were.


    In those days, without the photo editing technologies of later times, everyone believed that photos developed from film must be real.


    Just now, when Lin Chunju said that Yu Yaxian was fooling around outside with someone else, the people did not fully believe her.


    After all, the face-saving Kung Fu of the Yu Family was impeccable, and Yu Yaxian had a good reputation in the village.


    However, at this moment, when they saw the bold girl throwing herself into a man¡¯s arms in the photo, the villagers¡¯ gazes at the Yu Family instantly changed.


    The village always had fair-weather friends, especially when evidence was right before their eyes, and the crowds readily changed their tune.


    ¡°Look at this, I¡¯ve always said Yue Jiandong isn¡¯t that sort of person, we¡¯ve all seen how good he¡¯s been to Yu Yaxian, how could he possibly do such a thing?¡±


    ¡°The Yu Family really has no shame, their daughter claims to be studying outside, but is this what she¡¯s learning¡ªto seduce men?¡±


    ¡°Disgusting, this photo makes me want to vomit just looking at it.¡±


    The speaker, while voicing their disgust, quietly slipped a photo into his pocket.


    Yu¡¯s mother suddenly screamed and charged forward, trying to tear the photos into shreds.


    The villagers stepped back in fright at her behavior.


    Yue Jiandong added indifferently, ¡°Go ahead and tear them, I still have the negatives. I can print as many as you¡¯d like, and then distribute them from the start of the village to the end¡ªlet everyone know whether it¡¯s Yue Jiannan¡¯s fault or if Yu Yaxian is worthless?¡±


    Yu¡¯s mother hesitated in her movement, then sat on the ground and wailed.


    ¡°You¡¯re soulless, why would you take photos like this, how will my daughter face anyone now?¡±


    ¡°Just because we owed the Yue Family a bit of money, do you have to destroy my daughter¡¯s life?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s someone who¡¯s going to college, Yue Jiannan, can you really be so heartless?¡±


    She cried pitifully, but the villagers felt no sympathy.


    ¡°Wasn¡¯t it your family that accused others first, slandering Yue Jiannan, treating us like pawns?¡±


    ¡°Pah! Your daughter herself messed around with a random man; a dog who¡¯s fed for three years can become familiar, but your Yu Family just can¡¯t,¡±


    ¡°Yue Jiannan was so good to your family, heartfelt, isn¡¯t your daughter¡¯s reputation a reputation, and his not?¡±


    This was the backfire brought by public opinion¡ªthe extent to which the villagers had sympathised with the Yu Family was now the extent of their hatred.


    Treating the old man like a fool to be spun around, pah!


    Tao Huamao, after all coming from the city, could at least speak up at a time like this.


    ¡°Alright, we admit defeat this time. What do you want to do with us? We¡¯ll just compensate you with money!¡±


    Yue Jiandong asked him, ¡°Compensate? You think you can get away with the same three hundred you paid for the engagement?¡±


    Tao Huamao clenched his teeth and said, ¡°We can add more. Yue Jiannan indeed spent quite a bit on Yu Yaxian, but it was all out of his own volition, wasn¡¯t it? No one forced him.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Yue Jiannan couldn¡¯t help but laugh out of anger, ¡°Alright, by your logic, I shouldn¡¯t want a penny.¡±


    Yu¡¯s mother, upon hearing this, stopped crying, ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I don¡¯t want the money; I want to sue you for marriage fraud and see you go to jail!¡±


    Yu¡¯s mother¡¯s eyelids fluttered and she fainted on the spot.

 Chapter 177: 177 Cant Come Up with the Money

    Chapter 177: Chapter 177 Can¡¯t Come Up with the Money


    The farce ended with the mother being carried back home by the Yu Family.


    The villagers had watched a great drama unfold. It would likely take several months for the matter to settle down and quickly became the hottest topic in Daye Village over tea and meals.


    In the end, Yue Jiandong escorted Gun Ming to the village entrance and gave him the agreed-upon reward.


    But Gun Ming laughed and pushed it back, ¡°These past few days the meals at Yue Family¡¯s were exceptionally good, full of meat every meal, just consider it as meal expenses.¡±


    He wasn¡¯t there for the money, but entirely because he hated Tao Huamao.


    Initially, in the factory, Tao Huamao had been jealous over a female worker and picked a fight with him.


    He repeatedly gave in, but the other party, taking advantage of his drunkenness, ruined one of his eyes.


    Gun Ming demanded three thousand Yuan, purely to bring ruin to Tao Huamao¡¯s family, because no amount of money could bring his eye back.


    Unexpectedly, Tao Huamao¡¯s sister had married into the relatively affluent Yu Family of Daye Village, who managed to scrape together the money.


    The money couldn¡¯t erase Gun Ming¡¯s hatred, so when Yue Jiandong came to him, he agreed without a second thought to help out.


    Seeing the outcome for the Yu Family with his own eyes, he felt very satisfied!


    On the other hand, the Yu Family urgently called Yu Yaxian back from the city to discuss the matter together.


    Yu Yaxian sobbed, ¡°Mom, I absolutely cannot go to jail. I¡¯m about to take the college entrance exam. Once I become a college student and marry Qiming, our family can rise again. But if I go to jail, my life is over.¡±


    Yu¡¯s mother¡¯s forehead was covered with a dark plaster, and her eyes were lifeless.


    Seeing her mother not speaking, Yu Siyuan said anxiously, ¡°Uncle, originally it was because of your problem that our family resorted to this measure. You cannot just ignore this.¡±


    Tao Huamao¡¯s eyeballs whirled, but he did not respond.


    Yu Deyou sneered and produced an IOU.


    ¡°Huamao, this was the IOU you wrote back then, you owe the Yu Family exactly two thousand Yuan, you haven¡¯t forgotten, have you?¡±


    Tao Huamao was startled and immediately looked towards Yu¡¯s mother, but she still had that vacant expression.


    Yu Deyou hummed in his heart, thankful he had wisely kept the IOU in case Tao Huamao denied the debt.


    Yu¡¯s mother cried and fussed over it repeatedly, but he didn¡¯t destroy the IOU, just in case it might serve a purpose one day.


    And indeed, it had come in handy.


    With the IOU in their possession, Tao Huamao could only grit his teeth and say, ¡°Let¡¯s ask the village chief to mediate. We¡¯ll see how much money Yue Family wants to not take us to court, and I¡¯ll try to gather some funds.¡±


    Although the village chief disdained the Yu Family¡¯s deceitful marriage behavior, as the village chief, he didn¡¯t want the matter to escalate to the courtroom either.


    After all, in those days, suing someone in the village was still considered a shameful act.


    The Yue Family had already discussed this outcome.


    Yue Jiannan had mentioned that suing the Yu Family was more about scaring them.


    The elder brother had also consulted a lawyer known to Zheng Tianbo, and it seemed proving such a case in court would be challenging.


    They could at most order the Yu Family to return the substantial expenses of the Yue Family.


    Therefore, Lin Chunju planned to take advantage of the Yu Family¡¯s guilty and confused state, and have them return everything with interest.


    After several rounds of discussion, it was decided that the Yu Family must return one thousand eight hundred Yuan to the Yue Family, otherwise they would meet in court.


    Seeing the Yue Family would not budge, Yu¡¯s mother just sat on the ground after returning home.


    ¡°How will we handle so much money? The Yue Family is too merciless, showing no regard for three years of relationship. Demanding so much as soon as they spoke, it¡¯s like they want to take a piece of flesh from me.¡±


    Yu Siyuan angrily said, ¡°It¡¯s not just a piece of flesh, they want to swallow us whole, skin and all.¡±


    The Yu Family, furious, smashed many plates and bowls, wishing that the Yue Family would drop dead.


    Yet they didn¡¯t consider what they¡¯d have become if not for the Yue Family¡¯s cleverness.


    Yu Yaxian, having no other options, had to make a last-ditch effort, ¡°I¡¯ll go talk to Yue Jiannan again.¡±


    That man was very soft-hearted, maybe she could persuade him.

 Chapter 178 - 178 178 The Third One Also Wants to Go to

    ?Chapter 178: Chapter 178: The Third One Also Wants to Go to College Chapter 178: Chapter 178: The Third One Also Wants to Go to College Yu Yaxian really did come to the door, and was coincidentally seen by the wife of the neighbor, Er Gou.


    The neighbor¡¯s wife immediately showed contempt and spat viciously.


    ¡°Shameless, cuddling and hugging with a wild man.¡±


    Indeed, her relationship with the Yue Family wasn¡¯t that great, but she still looked down on such a flirty woman.


    Yu Yaxian bit her lips, leaving a mark.


    She could only comfort herself not to care about what the people in the village were saying now.


    Once she got into university, she would become the golden phoenix that flew out of the mountain nest.


    And after marrying Song Qiming, all anyone would have for her were envy and jealousy.


    After a long time of building herself up mentally, Yu Yaxian finally raised her hand and knocked on the outer courtyard door,


    The one who came out of the house just then was Yue Jiannan.


    As their eyes met, the tears in Yu Yaxian¡¯s eyes immediately fell.


    ¡°Jiannan...¡±


    Yue Jiannan opened the courtyard door and asked her indifferently, ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    ¡°To compensate for this sum of money, my family has decided to sell all our land, how will we live on? Haven¡¯t we been together for so long, doesn¡¯t that mean anything to you?¡±


    Yu Yaxian¡¯s tears kept falling down her cheeks, forming solid droplets as they hit the ground.


    ¡°Yes, I know I made a mistake, but I was just being foolish for a moment. Doesn¡¯t everyone have times when they are foolish? I¡¯ve seen the affection you¡¯ve had for me over these years. I really do want to marry you...¡±


    Yue Jiannan looked at her, tilting his head as if looking at a stranger.


    Yu Yaxian talked a lot, from their first meeting to the sweet times in between, talking until her mouth was almost worn out.


    Yet Yue Jiannan¡¯s expression remained indifferent, and she finally couldn¡¯t bear it anymore.


    ¡°Jiannan, what will it take for you to let the Yu Family go? If it really comes to it, I...¡±


    A blush crept over Yu Yaxian¡¯s face as she took a big step forward, her fingers touching the buttons of her coat.


    ¡°As long as you let off my family, I¡¯m willing to do anything.¡±


    Even the neighbor¡¯s wife, who had sneaked back into her room to peek through the window, was shocked. Could there really be such a shameless person in this world?


    This girl was really going all out.


    Yue Jiannan suddenly lowered his head and laughed, his laughter growing from a low chuckle to a loud guffaw, tears streaming from his eyes.


    ¡°Let off your family? Isn¡¯t all this the result of your family lifting a rock only to drop it on their own feet?¡±


    ¡°My mother taught me from a young age to be honest and to have a conscience. The Yue Family has a conscience, but we can¡¯t stand against those of you with a heart of malice.¡±


    Yu Yaxian sheepishly lowered her hand, her face turning pale.


    Yue Jiannan finally stopped laughing, wiping the tears from the corners of his eyes, ¡°Yu Yaxian, go back. Consider the money a lesson for your family, to let you know that honest people are not to be bullied at will.¡±


    Seeing that Yue Jiannan didn¡¯t even open the gate of the courtyard, Yu Yaxian turned around to go back to the house, but she couldn¡¯t hold back anymore.


    ¡°Yue Jiannan, are you still a man? I¡¯ve also given up my youth for these three years, do you really have to be so petty?¡±


    Yue Jiannan ignored her and pulled open the door.


    Yu Yaxian reached her breaking point and shrieked, ¡°You think you¡¯re worthy to be with me? In the future, both Song and I will be university students, the favored ones of heaven, while you, Yue Jiannan, will always be scratching a living from the soil, nothing but a country bumpkin!¡±


    ¡°Go look at yourself in your pond, you¡¯re just a toad aspiring for swan meat.¡±


    ¡°I admit defeat this time, but you¡¯ll get what¡¯s coming to you, Yue Jiannan. You won¡¯t have a good death!¡±


    With a bang, the door was firmly shut, cutting off Yu Yaxian¡¯s cursing.


    That evening, Yue Jiannan was preoccupied during dinner.


    Finally, he put down his chopsticks and told his family some news.


    ¡°Mom, I want to go to college, too.¡±


    Lin Chunju wasn¡¯t too surprised, only asking him, ¡°Haven¡¯t you always disliked studying? What made you suddenly have this idea?¡±


    ¡°You know, these past few years, I¡¯ve been reading books because of that person. Every time Big Brother brought back two sets of textbooks, I read them seriously.¡±


    Yue Jiandong asked him, ¡°Third brother, are you really sure about this? It¡¯s not just a moment of anger, is it?¡±


    Yue Jiannan nodded firmly, ¡°Yes, if others can go to college, why can¡¯t I? If I don¡¯t get in one year, I¡¯ll study for two years. I must go to college.¡±

 Chapter 179 - 179 179 Study Hard and Improve Together

    ?Chapter 179: Chapter 179: Study Hard and Improve Together Chapter 179: Chapter 179: Study Hard and Improve Together The Yue family was united in purpose; ever since they learned that Yue Jiannan wanted to attend college, they had made many preparations.


    Yue Jiandong went specially to the city to inquire and reported back to the whole family afterward.


    ¡°The college entrance examination is in early July, there¡¯s only a little over four months left. In this time, Jiannan needs to find a school that allows sitting-in, and they must agree to let him take the exam after enrolling.¡±


    ¡°I hear the competition among several schools is fierce now. To enroll students, they conduct examinations and don¡¯t just allow anyone to sit-in casually.¡±


    Upon hearing this, the Yue family began to worry.


    Only Yue Jiannan said calmly, ¡°Brother, I¡¯m not afraid of the exams; I haven¡¯t wasted these past few years.¡±


    Lin Chunju seriously said, ¡°Studying on your own is like groping your way across a river by feeling for stones. Having teachers guide you is different, but you don¡¯t have to rush this year. If it comes to it, you can still take the examination next year.¡±


    Yue Jiandong also said, ¡°That¡¯s right. The teachers at school were saying that there used to be a college entrance preliminary system a couple of years ago where only students who passed the preliminary could take the entrance exam. But that was abolished and now repeating a year is also allowed. If it comes to it, use this year as a trial run.¡±


    Yue Jiannan nodded, his face full of determination.


    He always seemed to joke around day-to-day, but when it came to serious matters, he was never negligent.


    It was like this when he raised fish, and it was the same now with his resolve to study.


    Zhang Ying asked, ¡°Jiannan isn¡¯t registered in the city, and our family doesn¡¯t have relatives there either. If he goes to study, where will he live?¡±


    Yue Jiandong laughed, ¡°We don¡¯t need to worry about that; the school has dormitories. Jiannan can stay at the school.¡±


    It just costs more money.


    After a discussion, the family came up with solutions to all the problems involved.


    Lin Chunju, with her usual vigor, immediately asked Yue Jiannan to pack his things.


    ¡°Once we figure out a plan, you go straight to school, Jiannan. Don¡¯t worry about the fishpond at home; Xiaohu can manage it. We also have some financial foundation now. We can hire others to help with farming.¡±


    At such a time, Yue Jiannan felt a bit ashamed, ¡°Doing this will cause the family to miss out on some harvests...¡±


    Lin Chunju glanced at him sideways, ¡°You wanting to study makes your mother very happy. Whether you succeed or not, at least you¡¯ll learn more. You can always raise fish whenever, but not everyone gets a chance to attend university.¡±


    Wang Xiaoni also joked with a laugh, ¡°Our village hasn¡¯t produced a college student yet. If Jiannan really gets in, that would truly bring glory to our ancestors. The news would probably spread to the surrounding villages as well.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Yue Jiannan began to puff up his chest again.


    ¡°Then I must indeed make our Yue family proud.¡± His demeanor was as if he had already passed the exam.


    Seeing his proud look, the whole family couldn¡¯t help but laugh.


    Lin Chunju playfully teased him for counting his chickens before they hatched yet also secretly felt relieved.


    The third child really had a good nature.


    No matter what setbacks he faced, he would recover after a while and never let himself be trapped in a dead end.


    With Yue Jiannan¡¯s matter settled, Lin Chunju suddenly looked toward Yue Qingqing.


    ¡°Speaking of which, Qingqing is also about the right age to start school.¡±


    Yue Qingqing looked up, her round eyes turning towards them.


    ¡°Now that the Yu family¡¯s issues are settled and Xingxing can continue her studies, it would be good for Qingqing and Xiaohu to start together.¡±


    Zhang Ying expressed her concerns, ¡°Qingqing is still too young, how about next year?¡±


    A mother is always like this, on one hand hoping for her children to excel and on another worrying about them facing too many challenges.


    Zhang Ying was afraid that Qingqing, being young, might be bullied by other children in the village.


    Lin Chunju laughed, ¡°It¡¯s alright, our kids are smart. It¡¯s good to start school early, so it doesn¡¯t delay their education.¡±


    Yue Xiaohu was outside running around, oblivious to the fact that his carefree childhood days were almost over.


    In Yue Qingqing¡¯s eyes was a look of befuddlement, then she glanced at Yue Jiannan.


    Weren¡¯t they just discussing the uncle going to school? How had it suddenly turned to her own schooling?


    Yue Jiannan mischievously squatted down, grasped Yue Qingqing¡¯s hand, and shook it up and down.


    ¡°Comrade Yue Qingqing, we must both study hard and make progress together.¡±


    Yue Qingqing: ¡°Huh?¡±

 Chapter 180 - 180 180 Yue Qingqings Student Career Begins

    ?Chapter 180: Chapter 180 Yue Qingqing¡¯s Student Career Begins Chapter 180: Chapter 180 Yue Qingqing¡¯s Student Career Begins The village school didn¡¯t have many formalities regarding enrollment, not requiring a unified start date within the school year.


    As long as parents were willing, they could send their children to school at any time.


    Regrettably, even though the country had been consistently emphasizing the implementation of nine years of compulsory education, there were not many parents in the village who were willing to send their children to school.


    One reason was tradition, everyone believed that farmers¡¯ descendants should focus on farming rather than learning much; recognizing and writing their own name was considered sufficient.


    Another reason was the issue of promotion rates during that era, as very few students managed to pass the examinations to advance in their studies.


    Let alone a university graduate, having someone in the family who made it to a secondary vocational school was an extraordinary accomplishment.


    Therefore, many in the village believed it was unnecessary to send children to strive for a limited opportunity when they could learn to farm at home.


    Lin Chunju, however, was different; she always instilled the importance of education in her children.


    Not just to stand out, but more importantly, to become enlightened and wise, to understand the world in various ways.


    Early in the morning Lin Chunju specially woke up early and cooked fried dough sticks and sunny-side-up eggs for her three children.


    ¡°Study hard so that you can score one hundred percent on every test in the future.¡±


    Yue Xiaohu devoured his food, the runny yolk from his egg dripping onto his chin.


    The child didn¡¯t yet understand what going to school meant; he just thought it was a change of play space.


    In her previous life, Yue Qingqing was taught by a master and had secretly visited a mortal school.


    She had seen students who couldn¡¯t recite their lessons get struck on the palms with an iron ruler by their teacher.


    Thinking about this, Yue Qingqing couldn¡¯t help but feel anxious.


    Yue Xiaofang wiped her mouth, ¡°Be good, study hard at school, and in a few days, your aunt will make you a new school bag that looks absolutely great.¡±


    Yue Xingxing showed off her own school bag right in front of her younger siblings.


    ¡°You¡¯ll have one very soon.¡±


    When Yue Xingxing stepped out the door, she took on a commanding tone like an adult, holding a hand of each sibling, ¡°Listen to the teacher in school, do not disrupt the class, do you hear me?¡±


    Yue Xiaohu, half-understanding, was distracted by a locust he spotted on the way and chased after it.


    He caught it and was about to put it in his makeshift paper bag to take to school for fun.


    Yue Xingxing sternly prohibited it, ¡°No! The teacher will scold you for that.¡±


    Yue Xiaohu pouted, and only then realized that school might not be as fun as he thought, and he began to fuss about not wanting to go to school halfway there.


    Yue Qingqing ran a fingertip down his face, ¡°Xiaohu, don¡¯t cry. Aren¡¯t men supposed to be brave? Are you scared of going to school?¡±


    Provoked by her words, Yue Xiaohu immediately wiped his tears and proclaimed loudly, ¡°I am not scared! Not at all!¡±


    Wang Xiaoni, watching her son¡¯s tear-stained cheeks, couldn¡¯t help but smile and took out a handkerchief to clean his face.


    There were only three teachers in the school now, two of whom were male educators who were formerly sent-down youths.


    Having no close relatives in the city, they chose to settle down and live in Daye Village after they married.


    The other teacher was a woman who had only completed junior high school, but she was sufficiently competent to teach the few older children in the village.


    The teachers were all pleased to see new students enrolling.


    The eldest among them, Dong Kang, collected the tuition fees and handed two sets of textbooks to Yue Qingqing and Yue Xiaohu.


    Yue Qingqing flipped through them and noticed that the textbooks looked somewhat worn, with dark marks from pencil drawings on them.


    Dong Kang explained, ¡°The conditions are poor now, textbooks are passed down from the older to the younger students, we can only use old ones.¡±


    Zhang Ying quickly agreed, ¡°The most important thing is to learn from the teacher, it doesn¡¯t matter whether the textbooks are old or new.¡±


    As she spoke, she placed a basket she brought with her on the table in the teacher¡¯s dormitory.


    Another male teacher, Lian Wenxing, hastily tried to refuse it, ¡°No need, you¡¯ve already paid the tuition fees.¡±


    Wang Xiaoni said, ¡°They¡¯re just eggs from our own hens, they¡¯re not worth much.¡±


    The teachers declined several times, but ultimately accepted.


    The three children from the Yue family were led to the classroom, and Yue Qingqing¡¯s days as a student officially began.

 Chapter 181 - 181 181 The First Class

    ?Chapter 181: Chapter 181 The First Class Chapter 181: Chapter 181 The First Class Children in the city attend school according to their grades, but the village isn¡¯t as particular about such matters.


    Over twenty kids of mixed ages learn together, progressing at different paces, with the teacher covering several points in a single lesson.


    Some children, having already learned the material, whisper among themselves below.


    Those who haven¡¯t learned can¡¯t hear well due to the noise and can only stare intently at the teacher¡¯s lips.


    The first class was taught by the only female teacher, Sun Yueyue.


    With her apple-shaped face appearing kind and friendly, the kids weren¡¯t too scared of her.


    Even as Sun Yueyue repeatedly stressed not to talk, there were still children chattering away.


    With no choice, Sun Yueyue walked down from the podium again and again, asking the chatty kids to move their stools to the last few rows, while those who hadn¡¯t learned moved to the front.


    Yue Qingqing and Yue Xiaohu were arranged to sit in the first row.


    Yue Xiaohu, on his first day of class, flipped his book back and forth, completely ignoring what the teacher was saying.


    Yue Qingqing was much better.


    After all, no matter how cute she appeared on the outside, at her core, she was much more mature than any of the children present and knew the importance of reading.


    Seeing a pair of big eyes gazing at her, filled with a longing for knowledge, Sun Yueyue finally smiled.


    Sun Yueyue was teaching math, and the first lesson was about Arabic numerals, from 1 to 9.


    Yue Xiaohu looked up and said loudly, ¡°Teacher, Sister Qingqing and I have already learned this.¡±


    Lin Chunju would teach her children at home whenever she had free time.


    The three Yue children had long been able to count from 1 to 100.


    When Sun Yueyue heard this, she asked the two new students to write the numbers again.


    After a while, she collected their work and saw that although Yue Xiaohu¡¯s writing was crooked, the numbers were recognizable.


    Unlike many kids, he hadn¡¯t written the number 3 in such a way that it wouldn¡¯t stand up, inexplicably turned into an ¡°m.¡±


    As for Yue Qingqing, she surprised Sun Yueyue even more. Her numbers were exceptionally neat, prettier than those of children who had been studying for a year or two, almost as if she had practiced in squared paper.


    Yue Qingqing, feeling the teacher¡¯s gaze, lowered her head shyly.


    Although her own era¡¯s counting method didn¡¯t use these numerals, she was nonetheless literate and artistic; learning the new Arabic numerals was naturally simple for her.


    Comparing her to ordinary children was simply a mismatch.


    However, Sun Yueyue knew none of this and kept heaping praise on the two children.


    Yue Qingqing blushed and let it be, while Yue Xiaohu stood up proudly, suddenly feeling the joy of learning.


    Halfway through the lesson, Sun Yueyue had the children in the front and back rows switch places to start on the more difficult material.


    Yue Qingqing sat in the last row but still listened with great interest.


    In her era, mortals also revered knowledge, with the traditional six arts of a gentleman including ¡°rites, music, archery, charioteering, calligraphy, and arithmetic.¡±


    Thus, mathematics had existed since ancient times.


    Yue Qingqing had also heard her master discuss complex problems like ¡°There are objects whose number is unknown: if counted by threes, two are left over; by fives, three are left over; by sevens, two are left over. How many objects are there?¡±


    Cultivators seeking the Great Dao each had their unique cultivation methods, including some Confucian cultivators obsessed with understanding the essence of things as their path to enlightenment.


    Over the course of the day, besides mathematics, the children had also been taught language by Teacher Dong Kang, as well as politics and nature studies by Lian Wenxing.


    The language lessons began with phonetics, while politics and nature covered concepts that the children didn¡¯t yet understand.


    They could only passively absorb the information for the moment, hoping to gradually comprehend it later.


    This was somewhat reminiscent of the criticized rote learning of later ages.


    But for the children of Daye Village, it was also the beginning of their enlightenment to the world.


    Finally, as the sky outside took on an orange hue, the sunset spread, connecting the sky in a spread of rosy clouds.


    The children in the school cheered, ready to go home for their meal.


    Just as they reached the door, the three Yue children were stopped by a girl.


    Yue Qingqing recognized her somewhat.


    Yue Xingxing spoke with displeasure, ¡°Zhang Caidie, what do you want this time?¡±


    Yue Qingqing recalled the girl¡¯s identity; wasn¡¯t she Wang Jinshun¡¯s daughter? Later, due to her mother remarrying, she had changed her surname.

 Chapter 182 - 182 182 Ungrateful Zhang Caidie

    ?Chapter 182: Chapter 182: Ungrateful Zhang Caidie Chapter 182: Chapter 182: Ungrateful Zhang Caidie After Wang Jinshun was imprisoned, the Yue family rarely mentioned news of his family.


    He Zhenzhen, since she had married the village butcher Zhang, had not come to bother the Yue family again.


    The butcher already had a son, who was almost an adult.


    But he seemed to also dote on Zhang Caidie, who had taken his surname; she lacked nothing compared to his own son in terms of food and clothing.


    This was evident from the fact that Zhang Caidie could attend school.


    Zhang Caidie glared at the children of the Yue family, angrily saying, ¡°You actually dare come to school.¡±


    Yue Xingxing still remembered how she had pushed her when they were little and retorted irritably, ¡°We¡¯ve also paid our tuition fees, why shouldn¡¯t we come?¡±


    ¡°The Yue family caused my dad to end up in prison; if it weren¡¯t for you all, I wouldn¡¯t be a fatherless child these years.¡±


    Saying this, Zhang Caidie started crying, wiping her eyes.


    The children around, seeing her like this, all gathered around.


    ¡°Caidie, what¡¯s wrong? Did the three Yue siblings bully you?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s all your fault, making someone lose their dad.¡±


    Children¡¯s worlds are very simple.


    Without considering the cause and effect, they just listened to Zhang Caidie¡¯s words and began to view the Yue family as greatly wicked.


    They also looked with considerable disfavor on the three siblings.


    A burly little boy purposefully bumped Yue Xiaohu with his shoulder, ¡°Get lost, we don¡¯t welcome you here.¡±


    Yue Xingxing, furious, stepped in front of her brother, ¡°Xu Fei, if you keep this up, I¡¯m going to tell the teacher.¡±


    Xu Fei menacingly said, ¡°You dare? Be careful, I¡¯ll beat you.¡±


    His demeanor was arrogant and overbearing; Yue Xingxing clenched her backpack strap in anger.


    Zhang Caidie wiped her tears, yet the corners of her mouth quietly curled up.


    Yue Qingqing witnessed this scene, and once again marveled at how impressive Wang Jinshun and He Zhenzhen were.


    How they had brought up the little girl to be like this.


    Yue Qingqing cleared her throat and slowly spoke, ¡°Zhang Caidie, you say you have no dad, then who is Uncle Zhang to you?¡±


    Zhang Caidie was stunned for a moment, not having figured out how to respond yet when Yue Qingqing bombarded her with questions.


    ¡°You claim the Yue family harmed your dad; wasn¡¯t it your dad who first tried to poison our family¡¯s fish pond? It was the police who arrested him; what does that have to do with the Yue family?¡±


    In the minds of children, the police are there to catch bad people.


    Zhang Caidie had been crying miserably just now, but now they all realized the truth upon hearing Yue Qingqing¡¯s words.


    Whenever Wang Jinshun was mentioned by the adults at home, they always showed a disdainful expression.


    Saying things like he got what he deserved, and it was karma.


    Thinking this way, they no longer saw Zhang Caidie as pitiful.


    ¡°Uncle Zhang earns money to send you to school, yet you say you have no dad; he¡¯s really pitiful ¡ª working hard to raise someone else¡¯s daughter.¡±


    This was truly how Yue Qingqing felt; if Wang Jinshun were still at home, he probably wouldn¡¯t even bother to send Zhang Caidie to school.


    The butcher cared well for this girl, but Zhang Caidie harbored only hatred, remembering only her dad locked up in prison.


    Today, when Zhang Caidie¡¯s words reached the butcher¡¯s ears, it was unknown how much they would hurt him.


    Seeing a stunned Zhang Caidie, who couldn¡¯t utter a word like a wooden chicken, Yue Qingqing shook her head and left with her siblings.


    A potential episode of school bullying was nipped in the bud.


    For several days afterward, Zhang Caidie didn¡¯t dare to act up in front of the three Yue siblings.


    Yue Qingqing only heard it mentioned in Zhang Ying¡¯s casual conversation with Yue Jiandong.


    It turns out Caidie¡¯s words eventually spread to the butcher¡¯s family in the village.


    The butcher didn¡¯t say much, but appeared more reticent than usual in his business these past few days, while He Zhenzhen harshly beat Zhang Caidie, her crying heard by the neighbors all night.


    Yue Qingqing, listening, felt absolutely no sympathy, only somewhat puzzled.


    Could the lack of gratitude, a trait possibly passed through genetics from Wang Jinshun to his daughter?

 Chapter 183 - 183 183 Sending Yue Jiannan to School

    ?Chapter 183: Chapter 183 Sending Yue Jiannan to School Chapter 183: Chapter 183 Sending Yue Jiannan to School Spring had finally arrived, and Daye Village was once again covered in a layer of fresh greenery.


    The villagers shed their thick cotton-padded jackets and started to get busy with spring plowing.


    Yue Jiandong had already found a way to send Yue Jiannan to school.


    It was just such a coincidence that it happened to be the same school Yu Yaxian was attending¡ªthe No. 1 Middle School.


    Yue Jiandong went out of his way to talk to his younger brother, ¡°The director of admissions at No. 1 Middle School happens to be the brother of a business associate of mine. Now, with time being tight, enrolling in other schools may not go as smoothly.¡±


    Yue Jiannan, who could not appreciate his brother¡¯s painstaking efforts more, hastily replied, ¡°Brother, you¡¯ve already had such a tough time finding a connection for me; I would never be picky.¡±


    Yue Jiandong was silent. His concern was about Yu Yaxian and that Song upperclassman being at the school, which he feared might lead to trouble.


    The day before yesterday, the Yu Family had just delivered the compensation money to the Yue Family. Apparently, they had managed to gather the funds by leasing out their farmland on a long-term basis to others.


    Yu Yaxian had not shown her face again, and now she didn¡¯t even come home during the holidays.


    But if the third brother were to study at No. 1 Middle School, an encounter with her was inevitable.


    Yue Jiannan promised, ¡°That¡¯s all in the past. Now, my mind is filled only with my studies. You can rest assured. I know this schooling means the family must once again spend money and make an effort for me, and I will definitely not seek out trouble.¡±


    Only then did Yue Jiandong¡¯s face light up with a smile, and he patted his brother¡¯s shoulder, uttering something like ¡°What great man lacks a wife?¡±


    He also reminded him, ¡°There are only four classes for the grade that requires exams at No. 1 Middle School. I¡¯ve already checked: Yu Yaxian and Song Qiming are in the first class, which is the key class. Because you have no strong foundation, you can only start in the fourth class for now. However, most of the teaching staff is the same.¡±


    Yue Jiannan nodded repeatedly, ¡°No worries, it¡¯s all the same everywhere. It¡¯s all about studying.¡±


    Yue Jiandong laughed, ¡°I¡¯ve spoken with the director and the principal, and we¡¯ll take you there tomorrow. You¡¯ll also need to take a test so they can gauge your level.¡±


    However, since greetings had already been exchanged, the test was more like a formality.


    Yet Yue Jiandong showed a determined expression, ¡°I will definitely do well on the test to make sure I don¡¯t disgrace our family.¡±


    Yue Jiandong couldn¡¯t help laughing heartily, thinking to himself that the Yue Family was quite well-known in Daye Village, but who in the city would recognize them?


    Still, he didn¡¯t want to dampen his brother¡¯s enthusiasm. That evening, he told their mother that he was taking the third brother to school tomorrow.


    Fortunately, everything had been prepared these past few days, so they were ready to leave at any moment.


    It just so happened that the school was on break, and Yue Qingqing started to nag again.


    ¡°Dad, Uncle, take me with you.¡±


    Yue Jiandong couldn¡¯t help but laugh. This child got so excited at the mention of going out; she really couldn¡¯t stay still.


    Since things at the school had already been taken care of and nothing extra was expected for tomorrow, he simply asked the other two children at home.


    ¡°Xingxing, Xiaohu, do you want to go to the city with us?¡±


    Xingxing shook her head. She was a child who preferred quiet, playing in her own courtyard when she was younger, and not enjoying outings as she grew older.


    Xiaohu, on the other hand, pulled out several glass marbles from his school bag that he seemed to have gotten from somewhere.


    ¡°I have plans to play with friends tomorrow.¡±


    He hadn¡¯t been attending school for long, yet he had already made a few friends with whom he could squat and play marbles.


    Lin Chunju couldn¡¯t resist flicking his forehead, ¡°You¡¯re sent to school to study, not just to play. Do you actually study properly during normal times?¡±


    Yue Xiaohu quickly put his hands behind his back and stood at attention.


    ¡°I¡¯ve studied! Now I know that three chicks plus two chicks equal five chicks.¡±


    Lin Chunju then asked, ¡°What about two plus three?¡±


    Yue Xiaohu fumbled with his fingers, struggling to count again.


    The family couldn¡¯t help but laugh at this scene.


    This silly child, claiming to have studied, had probably just memorized what the teacher said.


    Lin Chunju did not ask further, her smile spreading uncontrollably across her face.


    She loved the sound of reading at home; in these children, she saw the hope of the Yue Family.

 Chapter 184 - 184 184 Cleaning the Dormitory

    ?Chapter 184: Chapter 184: Cleaning the Dormitory Chapter 184: Chapter 184: Cleaning the Dormitory Yue Qingqing going to the city was almost a routine trip.


    As soon as she got off the bus, she pointed at the tricycle taxis on the main street.


    ¡°Dad, Uncle, let¡¯s ride!¡±


    Yue Jiandong looked at the things his family had brought, in addition to the newly made soft cotton bedding, there were all sorts of assorted daily necessities, and some local products for the teachers.


    He raised his hand and hailed two tricycles, he rode in one with his daughter, and Yue Jiannan took the other.


    The tricycles were packed full, barely able to fit everyone.


    Yue Jiannan hugged a quilt, his eyes sparkling.


    When they arrived at the school gates, he couldn¡¯t wait to rush in.


    Old man Zhang greeted Yue Jiannan and even asked him, ¡°Did you bring so many things for your wife today?¡±


    Yue Jiannan¡¯s eyes dimmed, but he quickly smiled.


    ¡°No, I¡¯m here to study, I¡¯ll be a student at this school from now on.¡±


    Old man Zhang exclaimed, and after seeing the recommendation letter Yue Jiandong had brought, he finally believed it.


    ¡°Good, study hard, you¡¯ll make something great of yourself in the future.¡±


    He didn¡¯t know how many students he had told this to, but Yue Jiannan was very happy.


    He felt like maybe the old man¡¯s words were a prophecy.


    This time, entering the campus, his mindset was completely different.


    In the past, he always felt an indescribable inferiority, but now his mood was as cheerful as a fish swimming in the ocean.


    Yue Jiandong first took the letters and documents and led Yue Jiannan to the dormitory.


    The dorm supervisor checked them and let them through.


    The dorm conditions were still very harsh in those days, with one dormitory accommodating twelve people.


    Because Yue Jiannan arrived late, he only got an upper bunk near the door and a small cabinet.


    The Yue brothers were used to doing tasks at home, and quickly organized everything neatly.


    The sheets were wrinkle-free, and with a soft quilt on top, even sleeping near the door in the winter wouldn¡¯t feel cold.


    At the far end facing the bed were two hooks, used to hang mosquito nets in the summer, something Yue Jiannan wouldn¡¯t need just yet.


    There was no place to dry clothes in the dormitory; instead, there was a common balcony at the end of the corridor.


    Each time they washed clothes, they had to go to the water room on the first floor.


    Taking a bath was even more difficult, in a small flat fifty meters away from the dormitory.


    Summer was manageable, but in winter, stepping out of the communal bathhouse, hair would freeze hard, as if covered with a layer of ice.


    Although neither Yue Jiandong nor Yue Jiannan had attended school, they could guess that due to the inconvenience of bathing, as the weather warmed, many dorm rooms might emanate unspeakable odors...


    Yue Qingqing curiously surveyed her surroundings, her eyes filled with novelty.


    The only long table in the entire dormitory was placed by the window, distinctly occupied with books belonging to different people.


    Someone had carved a line of words at the corner of the table.


    ¡°There will be times when you ride the wind and waves, and hang your sail to cross the sea.¡±


    There was a palm-sized flower pot on the windowsill, containing a green plant that looked almost dead.


    After looking around, Yue Qingqing smiled and performed a spell.


    A light enveloped the dormitory, lingering for a long time.


    The Heart Clarity Spell.


    This spell ensures clarity of mind and insight into worldly affairs; a student who practices it will surely progress swiftly in their studies.


    The wilted plant seemed to sense something and quietly revived a bit, standing up as if infused with life.


    After completing her spell, the Yue siblings finished organizing.


    Yue Jiandong wiped the sweat from his forehead with his sleeve, ¡°Let¡¯s go, I still need to take you to the admissions director for the exam.¡±


    Yue Jiannan placed a pen in the pocket of his shirt and followed his brother seriously.


    The way he looked was almost like going into battle.

 Chapter 185 - 185 185 Passing the Exam

    ?Chapter 185: Chapter 185: Passing the Exam Chapter 185: Chapter 185: Passing the Exam The director nodded his head when he saw Yue Jiannan.


    He habitually lectured, ¡°Your brother has put a lot of effort into getting you in here, so you better not waste your time on campus. After all, every minute is precious.¡±


    Yue Jiandong hastily replied with a smile, ¡°Our Jiannan is a good kid. He¡¯s been studying hard at home too. Director Miao, are we having the exam here?¡±


    Director Miao took out three already-prepared test papers from the drawer.


    ¡°We¡¯ll skip the other subjects for now, let¡¯s just see your Chinese, mathematics, and political science.¡±


    Director Miao pointed to a desk beside him, and Yue Jiannan hurriedly took the papers and sat down, frantically starting to answer the questions.


    He felt a wave of relief in his heart, as he was quite familiar with these three subjects and wasn¡¯t too scared.


    What he feared most was a foreign language exam. Although his brother had brought back two English cassette tapes from the city and Yue Jiannan sometimes listened to them,


    it was all gibberish sprinkled with a few words he knew. He couldn¡¯t understand the meaning when strung together.


    While Yue Jiannan was answering the questions, Yue Jiandong spoke in a hushed tone, taking out two books and a pen from a briefcase he had brought especially for today.


    Director Miao was just about to say he didn¡¯t accept gifts when he glanced at them and saw that they were newly translated foreign poetry collections from within the country, and the pen was a Parker.


    The gifts might not have spoken of their value outright, but they had certainly reached the bottom of his heart.


    He found himself unable to utter a word of refusal.


    Yue Jiandong familiarly stated, ¡°My younger brother will still be at school for half a year, and he has been physically weak since he was young. Please take care of him, Director Miao.¡±


    Director Miao¡¯s face was all smiles, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I can tell at a glance that he¡¯s a smart kid. I¡¯ll definitely keep a closer eye on him.¡±


    Yue Qingqing blinked at Yue Jiandong.


    After a few years in business, Dad started to resemble Second Senior Brother with that fox-like demeanor.


    On one side, Director Miao started to chat amiably with Yue Jiandong; on the other, Yue Jiannan continued writing furiously, oblivious to the world outside.


    Yue Qingqing thought about it and quietly sat next to Yue Jiannan, watching him complete the exam.


    She suddenly realized she could cheat.


    Each time Yue Jiannan put down an answer, she could determine its correctness based on his aura.


    However, Yue Qingqing had no intention of speaking up, as knowledge was something that needed a genuine foundation.


    She could help her uncle now, but she couldn¡¯t be by his side during the college entrance exam.


    By the time Yue Jiannan finished the set of papers, Yue Qingqing already had a good idea of how he did.


    Most of the answers were indeed correct.


    Sure enough, upon seeing Yue Jiannan was actually competent, Director Miao¡¯s smile seemed even more genuine as he reviewed the papers and marked each answer.


    He wrote down a final score and looked up at Yue Jiandong.


    ¡°Not bad. Your brother has a solid foundation. It seems he really studied hard at home. It would be a pity to place him in class four, but the admission documents have already been approved, and switching classes now would be a bit troublesome.¡±


    Yue Jiandong said excitedly, ¡°There¡¯s no trouble, Director Liao. We are already completely satisfied that my younger brother can attend the school.¡±


    Yue Jiannan looked at his paper, his face showing frustration.


    There were some questions he clearly knew but had neglected while answering the paper.


    That really shouldn¡¯t have happened!


    Seeing the clock on the wall, Director Miao reminded, ¡°You all must be hungry by now. You can go to the canteen on the east side for a meal, just buy the meal tickets directly at the counter.¡±


    The Yue brothers thanked him repeatedly and left the office with Yue Qingqing.


    ¡°You did well, my boy. Keep it up.¡±


    As they left, Yue Jiandong lightly punched Yue Jiannan in the chest, his excitement evident in his expression.


    Yue Jiannan scratched his head, ¡°Hehe, I am going to be a college student.¡±


    ¡°You go on to the canteen with Qingqing. I still have some things to do,¡± Yue Jiandong said.


    Neither Yue Qingqing nor Yue Jiannan asked what he was going to do.


    Seeing the bulging briefcase and his steps up the stairs,


    they knew Yue Jiandong was probably going to give books and pens to the principal and other teachers again.


    Yue Jiannan felt a sense of shame; for his education, his elder brother had truly spared no effort or expense.


    If he did not study hard, he wouldn¡¯t do justice to his brother¡¯s painstaking efforts.

 Chapter 186 - 186 186 Gift for the Girl You Like

    ?Chapter 186: Chapter 186: Gift for the Girl You Like Chapter 186: Chapter 186: Gift for the Girl You Like After stepping outside, Yue Jiannan felt an urge to let out a triumphant yell to the sky.


    Now, he would also be a part of the school.


    Before he could even start boasting with highfalutin declarations, Yue Qingqing grabbed his sleeve.


    ¡°Little uncle, let¡¯s go to the cafeteria.¡±


    How could he have forgotten about the little foodie he had with him?


    Yue Jiannan laughed and cried at the same time, took Yue Qingqing¡¯s little hand, and walked towards the cafeteria as directed by Director Miao.


    Not far away, two girls were also heading in the direction of the cafeteria.


    One of the girls suddenly exclaimed and pointed at Yue Jiannan¡¯s retreating figure.


    ¡°Yushan, the guy up ahead looks like the one you¡¯ve been searching for lately.¡±


    Lin Yushan hurriedly looked up.


    She had been searching for the man who had given her gloves for some time, but to no avail.


    For some reason, Lin Yushan whimsically donned the gloves as though this could somehow make the man reappear.


    For this, Shan An¡¯an often teased her.


    Yue Jiannan was blissfully unaware that he had become the focus of someone¡¯s attention, still discussing with Yue Qingqing the serious business of future studies.


    ¡°Once your little uncle gets into college, you also need to study hard in the village without holding me back,¡± he said.


    Yue Qingqing exclaimed, ¡°So little uncle, like Uncle Li¡¯s family dog, Dahuang, you have hind legs too?¡±


    Yue Jiannan spat out in disgust, ¡°How can it be the same?¡±


    Other people¡¯s kids say the darnedest things, but Qingqing definitely did it on purpose!


    At that moment, two girls came running up to them.


    One of the girls was very pretty with a pair of classical phoenix eyes.


    Yue Qingqing immediately recognized the air about the other girl.


    Those with poetry in their heart always carry an elegance, typical of a young lady from a genteel family.


    Stopping a strange man so abruptly, Lin Yushan¡¯s cheeks turned pink before she could even speak.


    It took her quite a bit of courage to finally muster the words,


    ¡°Classmate, I¡¯ve finally found you.¡±


    Yue Jiannan was taken aback, not recognizing the girl at all, ¡°Who are you?¡±


    Two words left Lin Yushan momentarily at a loss for words.


    Shan An¡¯an, ever quick-witted, said, ¡°Hey, weren¡¯t you the one who gave Yushan the gloves last time? Why pretend not to know her?¡±


    She internally mocked his apparent game of playing hard to get¡ªit was too deliberate.


    Yue Jiannan glanced at the gloves Lin Yushan was wearing and finally remembered.


    Last time, he hadn¡¯t been in the right frame of mind, not even noticing what the girl looked like.


    He later realized he had given away a perfectly good pair of sheepskin gloves, which pained him.


    But as much as it hurt, it was not as if he could search the vast sea of people to ask for them back.


    Now that he had the chance, Yue Jiannan immediately started to say,


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I just recognized you. May I ask...¡± if you could give the gloves back to me.


    Before he could finish, Yue Qingqing fiercely stomped on his foot.


    The rest of Yue Jiannan¡¯s words came out as a scream of pain.


    Yue Qingqing blinked innocently, ¡°Sorry, little uncle, Qingqing didn¡¯t stand steady.¡±


    Shan An¡¯an exclaimed and crouched down, her eyes shining as she gazed at Yue Qingqing.


    ¡°Is this your niece? She¡¯s so pretty.¡±


    Yue Jiannan was used to it.


    These days, especially among women, no one could remain indifferent upon seeing Yue Qingqing.


    He clenched his molars and said nothing.


    Qingqing was so young, yet her stepping was incredibly painful.


    It must be because of all that she eats!


    When brother comes over, he¡¯s got to hear about this.


    Yue Qingqing smiled, her eyes crescent-shaped, ¡°This pair of sheepskin gloves was made specially by auntie, a gift for the girl little uncle likes.¡±


    Lin Yushan¡¯s face turned bright red.


    She looked down at her toes and whispered, ¡°I can¡¯t just take your things for nothing, but I¡¯ve already used the gloves...¡±


    Yue Jiannan was about to say that it¡¯s fine if they¡¯ve been used, she could return them, and he would just wash them again.


    But facing the pretty girl, he felt a little embarrassed to say it out loud.


    Mainly because he had this inexplicable feeling that if he did speak up, he might get stepped on again.


    Lin Yushan then continued quietly, ¡°How about this, I¡¯ll consider buying the gloves from you. How much do you think is appropriate?¡±

 Chapter 187 - 187 187 The Road is Paved

    ?Chapter 187: Chapter 187: The Road is Paved Chapter 187: Chapter 187: The Road is Paved By this point in the conversation, Yue Jiannan, despite his thick skin, felt too embarrassed to ask for the item back.


    But he wasn¡¯t sure how much money would be appropriate to charge.


    The quality of Yue Xiaofang¡¯s craftsmanship at Orchid Pavilion didn¡¯t come cheap.


    The price, when mentioned, sounded almost like robbery followed by a slaughter.


    But then again, even though the material was good, it was leftover from a main project, so strictly speaking, it was hard to put a price on it.


    Yue Jiannan could only bear the heartache and foot pain as he waved his hand, ¡°No need, I already said it¡¯s a gift for you.¡±


    However, Lin Yushan was insistent, ¡°How can I accept this? Please, name a price.¡±


    ¡°No, really, it¡¯s not necessary!¡±


    The two argued for quite a while.


    Yue Qingqing and Shan An¡¯an¡¯s gazes shifted back and forth between them.


    Eventually, Shan An¡¯an couldn¡¯t wait any longer, ¡°Forget it, if all else fails, just have Yushan treat you to a few more meals.¡±


    Yue Qingqing, whose stomach was growling, nodded eagerly, ¡°Uncle, let¡¯s head to the canteen.¡±


    Yue Jiannan glanced helplessly at the little one and agreed.


    Clearly, Lin Yushan was a woman of her word. She ordered the best dishes in the canteen for Yue Jiannan.


    Braised lion¡¯s head, sweet and sour ribs, pan-fried yellow croaker.


    These rich, meaty dishes weren¡¯t cheap.


    Yue Jiannan felt somewhat embarrassed, ¡°There¡¯s no need to order so much; I might not be able to finish it all.¡±


    Lin Yushan shook her head, ¡°What you gifted is quite valuable; these are still not enough.¡±


    Shan An¡¯an mischievously winked, ¡°No worries, if one meal isn¡¯t enough, we can have a few more.¡±


    She hadn¡¯t expected such schemes from someone who seemed like a simple young man.


    There were countless boys in school who wanted to share a meal with Yushan, but none had succeeded.


    Yet this new face had managed to do just that.


    Unable to contain her curiosity, Shan An¡¯an asked, ¡°By the way, what grade and class are you in? Yushan and I have been looking for you for a long time but never found you?¡±


    Yue Jiannan then shared that he had just enrolled in school that day.


    As for his past, he glossed over it vaguely.


    Shan An¡¯an was surprised for a moment, ¡°Does this mean we should actually be calling you ¡®senior¡¯?¡±


    It turned out they were one grade lower than Yue Jiannan.


    Hearing the word ¡®senior¡¯ made Yue Jiannan¡¯s skin crawl, and he quickly corrected her.


    ¡°Just call me by my name; please don¡¯t call me ¡®senior,¡¯ I¡¯m not used to it.¡±


    Lin Yushan watched Yue Qingqing eat with joy and, thinking of something, smiled tenderly.


    She even went and got a bowl of soup, placing it in front of the little one.


    ¡°Be careful, don¡¯t choke.¡±


    Yue Jiannan commented, ¡°She¡¯s just a little foodie; no need to worry.¡±


    Yue Qingqing looked up from her bowl, giving her little uncle a look of innocent pity.


    The hearts of the two girls melted.


    Shan An¡¯an righteously chastised him, ¡°A child is growing; what¡¯s wrong with eating a bit more? You shouldn¡¯t say that about a little girl.¡±


    Lin Yushan nodded in agreement, speaking softly, ¡°Qingqing, tell me if there¡¯s anything else you¡¯d like to eat, and I¡¯ll go buy it.¡±


    Yue Jiannan had nothing to say, only reflecting that this truly was a superficial world.


    Fortunately, the Yue family spent enough time around the little one to have built up some immunity.


    Who knew how many people this girl would bewitch when she grew up.


    Yue Jiannan had just finished eating when Yue Jiandong arrived belatedly.


    Lin Yushan and Shan An¡¯an had already gone to the classroom.


    Yue Jiannan quickly prepared to go to the counter to buy meal tickets to order food for his brother.


    But Yue Jiandong stopped him.


    ¡°No need; lunch break is about to be over. You better go to class. I¡¯ll just buy something quick to eat outside,¡± he said.


    After saying this, Yue Jiandong patted his brother¡¯s shoulder,


    ¡°I¡¯ve paved the way for you; you should be able to get by smoothly in school, and even if you run into those two, you won¡¯t have to worry.¡±


    Without needing further explanation, Yue Jiannan knew his brother had spent the entire afternoon running around on his behalf.


    He earnestly replied, ¡°Brother, you can go home without worry. I¡¯ll take good care of myself.¡±


    With Yue Jiannan¡¯s assurance, Yue Jiandong finally felt at ease and headed back to the village with Yue Qingqing.

 Chapter 188 - 188 188 Wang Jinshun is Released from Prison

    ?Chapter 188: Chapter 188: Wang Jinshun is Released from Prison Chapter 188: Chapter 188: Wang Jinshun is Released from Prison After Yue Jiannan went off to school, the house seemed a lot quieter.


    Lin Chunju occasionally called out to the inside room when she cooked.


    ¡°Lao San, go get me a bottle of vinegar.¡±


    As soon as she spoke, she realized that Yue Lao San had already gone to the city.


    A mother¡¯s worry spans a thousand miles.


    Even though Daye Village now had a bus service to the city, Lin Chunju¡¯s heart was still preoccupied with her youngest son.


    With only one person less at home, everyone felt a great emptiness.


    Fortunately, staying busy somewhat diluted these emotions.


    The people of Daye Village were all busy with spring plowing, and the Yue Family specially hired someone from a family with many brothers to help with the farming.


    Yue Jianxi then started to manage the fishpond.


    Before Yue Jiannan left, he secretly handed over the fish feed formula to his second brother.


    With Yue Jianxi¡¯s attentiveness and meticulousness, Lin Chunju didn¡¯t need to worry about the fishpond at all.


    What troubled her was something else.


    Wang Jinshun was about to be released from prison.


    The adults at home were all on edge, afraid that man would come back to cause trouble.


    Lin Chunju personally went to the school to pick up the three children every morning and evening to prevent any accidents.


    However, contrary to expectations, Wang Jinshun never showed up at the Yue Family¡¯s doorstep from beginning to end.


    The Yue Family soon learned the reason why.


    Wang Jinshun hated the Yue Family, but he was even more infuriated that He Zhenzhen had remarried while he was in prison.


    The first thing he did after his release was to block Zhang the butcher¡¯s door.


    Zhang the butcher wasn¡¯t at home as he had gone to the market to sell meat, leaving only He Zhenzhen and her daughter, Zhang Caidie.


    Facing Wang Jinshun¡¯s fury, He Zhenzhen stood with her hands on her hips, not showing any fear.


    ¡°What are you, exactly, expecting me to be chaste for you? You weren¡¯t gone for three days; it was three years! If I hadn¡¯t remarried, how could I have survived alone with a daughter?¡±


    Wang Jinshun¡¯s voice hoarse, he asked her, ¡°Then why didn¡¯t you choose Daming?¡±


    He Zhenzhen said irritably, ¡°Don¡¯t you know his situation? Which woman in the village would want to marry him, and he still pesters me every day to help him gather a dowry to find a girl, pah, where would I find that? I¡¯ve already done my utmost by leaving the family fields to him.¡±


    In truth, He Zhenzhen lied, as she had initially wanted to bring the Wang Family¡¯s fields as her dowry when she remarried.


    But Zhang the butcher was a decent man, and he returned the fields to Wang Daming.


    Otherwise, with Wang Daming¡¯s character similar to Wang Jinshun¡¯s, how could he not come to argue every day?


    Seeing that He Zhenzhen¡¯s face revealed a sense of justification, Wang Jinshun got so angry that he raised his hand to slap her.


    He Zhenzhen sneered, ¡°Come on, try to hit me, see what happens. I¡¯m not your wife now, if you dare to hit me, I¡¯ll call the police.¡±


    Years of prison life had already broken Wang Jinshun¡¯s spirit.


    Wang Jinshun, deflated, lowered his hand and looked toward the little girl hiding behind He Zhenzhen.


    ¡°Caidie, come with dad. From now on, you¡¯ll be the Wang Family¡¯s future. When you grow up, I¡¯ll find you a good husband.¡±


    He Zhenzhen scoffed, ¡°Sure, then you see if this debt-collecting ghost will go with you. She¡¯s changed her surname now, eats meat and wears new clothes every day; her life is much better than before.¡±


    Wang Jinshun ignored her and pleaded, reaching out to Zhang Caidie.


    Zhang Caidie stepped back at the sight of Wang Jinshun¡¯s unkempt appearance.


    ¡°You can go. I want to stay with mom.¡±


    He Zhenzhen raised her voice, ¡°Get lost now, and if you harass us again, I will call the police!¡±


    Later, when Lin Chunju was taking the Yue Family children to school, she saw Wang Jinshun at the school gate.


    Wang Jinshun ignored them, his eyes fixated only on Zhang Caidie inside the classroom.


    Zhang Caidie, nudged by her deskmate, looked out.


    She immediately covered her face with a book.


    Wang Jinshun sighed deeply and walked away with a hunched back.


    Lin Chunju watched Wang Jinshun¡¯s retreating figure, like an abandoned old dog.


    She couldn¡¯t help but shake her head.


    Latterly, Wang Jinshun disappeared from Daye Village; no one knew where he went.


    Some said he went south to seek his fortune, while others said he was devoured by wild beasts in the back mountains.


    The man who once bore an irreconcilable grudge against the Yue Family vanished from everyone¡¯s sight just like that.

 Chapter 189 - 189 189 Mysterious Old Grandfather

    ?Chapter 189: Chapter 189 Mysterious Old Grandfather Chapter 189: Chapter 189 Mysterious Old Grandfather After Wang Jinshun left, life at the Yue Family resumed its usual tranquility.


    At the dinner table, Yue Qingqing was struggling with a rib.


    Seeing her stuffed cheeks, resembling a little hamster, Yue Xiaofang smiled and added another rib to her plate.


    ¡°How have Qingqing, Xingxing, and Xiaohu been doing at school lately?¡±


    Yue Xiaohu, true to his name, had a tigerish look about him.


    He answered loudly, ¡°School is fun!¡±


    He had finally found friends to catch grasshoppers and play in the mud with.


    Lately, Wang Xiaoni had to change his clothes every day.


    He would leave the house clean in the morning only to return looking like a mud monkey in the evening.


    Yue Xingxing complained with a pout, ¡°Xiaohu doesn¡¯t listen attentively in class, always passing notes with others. Sister Qingqing behaves well, the teacher often praises her.¡±


    Zhang Ying tapped her daughter¡¯s nose and served her a piece of fish.


    Wang Xiaoni asked Xiaohu, ¡°Why don¡¯t you pay attention in class?¡±


    Xiaohu asserted confidently, ¡°School is boring. I don¡¯t like studying; I want to be a soldier and wear a uniform.¡±


    The family was taken aback for a moment, Yue Qingqing swallowed what was in her mouth and explained.


    ¡°A few days ago, Teacher Sun¡¯s boyfriend came to visit her.¡±


    Sun Yueyue had a boyfriend in the military who only came back once every few months on leave.


    Since a soldier doesn¡¯t have many places to spend money, he can save his salary and allowances.


    Before visiting Sun Yueyue in Daye Village, he would always buy a bunch of things in the city.


    Sun Yueyue genuinely liked the children, so whenever her boyfriend visited, the kids always got a treat.


    Seeing the soldier brother in his crisp military uniform, bringing goodies with him, impressed the kids immensely.


    Especially last time when two boys in school had a conflict and started fighting.


    The soldier brother lifted one in each hand, easily separating the two and eliciting admiring cheers from all the kids.


    Seeing Yue Xiaohu¡¯s expression, Lin Chunju¡¯s face fell stern.


    ¡°Do you think just anyone can be a soldier?¡±


    Yue Xiaohu was taken aback.


    Lin Chunju spoke to him seriously, as if to an adult.


    ¡°There aren¡¯t many wars nowadays; the country was even downsizing the military a couple of years back. In the future, they¡¯ll be looking for educated soldiers. If you don¡¯t study hard now, no one will want you in the army later.¡±


    Yue Xiaohu seemed to understand but not quite, yet at his age, he was already adept at reading adults¡¯ expressions.


    Seeing that everyone else remained quiet when Grandma spoke, he knew it was serious.


    All he could do was promise with a grimace.


    ¡°I will study hard from now on.¡±


    Lin Chunju instructed Yue Xingxing and Yue Qingqing, ¡°You two are the older sisters, help Xiaohu out more often.¡±


    Feeling a bit smug, Yue Xingxing tugged Yue Xiaohu¡¯s ear.


    ¡°Did you hear that? Grandma said you have to listen to me.¡±


    Yue Xiaohu huffed irritably in response.


    Yue Qingqing looked on, amused.


    Out in the world, Xingxing always had the bearing of an elder sister, protecting Xiaohu and herself in any situation.


    Only at home would she deliberately tease Xiaohu¡ªsuch was the natural bond between siblings, perhaps.


    After dinner, Yue Qingqing secretly called Yue Xiaohu to the backyard.


    Thinking there was something exciting afoot, he crept over sneakily.


    ¡°Sister Qingqing, what did you call me for?¡±


    Yue Qingqing looked at him seriously, ¡°Do you really want to become a soldier?¡±


    Yue Xiaohu nodded vigorously, ¡°Yes, I want to be a soldier!¡±


    Yue Qingqing observed his vigor, with robust qi and strong bones; he truly was naturally suited for martial arts practice.


    Putting on an air of mystery, Yue Qingqing whispered, ¡°Actually, I met an old man with a big beard in the village before. He claimed he was a master who possessed Peerless Martial Arts, just waiting for a destined disciple.¡±


    Yue Xiaohu¡¯s eyes widened. He often watched martial arts TV shows with Yue Qingqing at the village chief¡¯s home.


    Such shows were quite popular recently.


    Encounters with reclusive experts who emerge from over a cliff, dwell in caves, or even disguise themselves as beggars in markets were common themes.


    The experts in these stories were always those dusty, travel-worn elders.


    Therefore, he didn¡¯t doubt her words for a second and became thrilled, bouncing up and down with excitement.


    ¡°Where¡¯s the old man? I¡¯m the destined one. I want to be his disciple!¡±

 Chapter 190 - 190 190 Iron Simpleton Yue Xiaohu

    ?Chapter 190: Chapter 190 Iron Simpleton Yue Xiaohu Chapter 190: Chapter 190 Iron Simpleton Yue Xiaohu Yue Qingqing struggled to stifle her laughter as she coaxed him, ¡°But, Grandpa said he can¡¯t show himself and can only teach you through me.¡±


    If it had been a smarter child, there¡¯s no way they would have believed that.


    It just so happened that the Yue Family were all sincere people, who had never told a lie to Yue Xiaohu from the time he was born.


    Yue Jianxi and Wang Xiaoni were the most honest among honest people.


    Most parents, seeing their child cry incessantly, would coax them by saying if you stop crying, Daddy and Mommy will buy you delicious treats and fun toys.


    Once the child was pacified, they¡¯d conveniently forget what they had promised.


    But Yue Jianxi and his wife would never do that.


    They either said nothing, or if they said something, they made sure to follow through.


    That¡¯s why Yue Xiaohu was already in school but still didn¡¯t know what it was like to be deceived.


    It seemed he was destined to be duped by Yue Qingqing.


    After hearing what Yue Qingqing said, Yue Xiaohu nodded his head repeatedly, ¡°I get it, all masters have their own temperaments, and many masters even make you do chores before teaching you martial arts.¡±


    Needless to say, this was also learned from the television.


    ¡°Well, today I¡¯ll start by teaching you a few moves on behalf of Grandpa, and you just need to practice diligently after you get home from school each day.¡±


    Yue Xiaohu then asked, ¡°Can I not go to school and just practice at home every day?¡±


    Yue Qingqing shook her head immediately, ¡°No, this is a secret between us and Grandpa. If someone else finds out, he¡¯ll get mad and won¡¯t let me teach you anymore.¡±


    Yue Xiaohu sighed reluctantly.


    It seemed learning martial arts was quite a hassle; you couldn¡¯t tip anyone off.


    ¡°Moreover, Grandpa prefers kids who do well in their studies. If you don¡¯t study hard, he¡¯ll choose someone else to teach.¡±


    No matter how nai?ve Yue Xiaohu was, he started to feel that something was off at this moment.


    ¡°Sister Qingqing, you¡¯re not ¡®donkeying¡¯ me, are you?¡±


    Yue Qingqing pretended to be displeased, ¡°When have I ever lied to you? Plus, if you practice for a few days, won¡¯t you see for yourself whether I¡¯ve lied to you or not?¡±


    Yue Qingqing was the apple of the family¡¯s eye, and since he was little, Wang Xiaoni had taught Yue Xiaohu to be protective of the girls at home.


    Seeing Yue Qingqing unhappy, he immediately put his hands together, both apologizing and making promises.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, please teach me. I¡¯ll practice hard.¡±


    Only then did Yue Qingqing feel satisfied and taught Yue Xiaohu a few foundational moves.


    As she grew up, Yue Qingqing also practiced in secret when no one was around. With Spiritual Energy within her, she naturally achieved twice the result with half the effort.


    However, she could not teach this cultivation to Yue Xiaohu; after all, he was a mortal and couldn¡¯t casually form a celestial bond with her.


    Luckily, the techniques Yue Qingqing taught him not only strengthened his body, but as Yue Xiaohu grew older, they would also make him a formidable person among ordinary people.


    He would not be bullied wherever he went.


    After teaching these movements, Yue Qingqing took great care to instruct him on some important points.


    The first was that he mustn¡¯t let anyone find out, and secondly, he must embody the spirit of chivalry and never use it to bully the weak.


    Yue Xiaohu responded respectfully.


    Just as Yue Qingqing was about to leave, she heard a thud.


    Turning her head, she saw Yue Xiaohu devoutly kneeling on the ground, bowing several times to a certain spot.


    He earnestly said, ¡°Master, your disciple will hide his identity and practice diligently. When I grow up, I will become a martial arts master.¡±


    Yue Qingqing¡¯s head was filled with black lines; Yue Xiaohu had been too deeply influenced by martial arts movies.


    She hurried away, unable to bear watching any longer.


    Xiaohu, don¡¯t blame your sister for deceiving you; this is all a well-intentioned lie.


    And I hope when you grow up and think back to this moment, please don¡¯t look for a crack in the ground to crawl into.


    But what Yue Qingqing never expected was that even when he grew up, Yue Xiaohu never doubted the existence of this unseen master.


    He always believed that there was a Grandpa who recognized his extraordinary potential and took him as a registered disciple through his sister.


    By that time, Yue Qingqing could only feel ashamed for deceiving a child, while marveling at how her uncle and aunt¡¯s honest genes were indeed carved into their offspring¡¯s bones.

 Chapter 191 - 191 191 Yue Xiaofangs Hustle and Bustle

    ?Chapter 191: Chapter 191: Yue Xiaofang¡¯s Hustle and Bustle Chapter 191: Chapter 191: Yue Xiaofang¡¯s Hustle and Bustle Since Yue Jiannan went to the city to study, Yue Xiaofang could only deliver the finished goods to the Orchid Pavilion herself.


    Yue Jiandong advised her, ¡°When I go to the city to deliver goods, I can take yours with me, so you don¡¯t have to make an extra trip.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang, however, declined with a smile, ¡°No need. I was just about to take a stroll in the city.¡±


    She explained, ¡°Now, unlike before, going to the city doesn¡¯t require a production brigade¡¯s permit. It¡¯s good for me to broaden my horizons, see the new styles of clothes in the city, and avoid working in isolation.¡±


    In truth, Yue Xiaofang knew that every time Yue Jiandong went to the city, he had to visit countless restaurants and was busy like a spinning top.


    With Yue Xiaofang¡¯s nature, how could she be willing to trouble her elder brother?


    Yue Jiandong also understood her thinking and knew that no matter what he said, he could not change his sister¡¯s mind.


    He could only shake his head helplessly and tried a different approach, ¡°You¡¯ve made a name for yourself now. Everyone, both inside and outside the village, knows that the Yue Xiaofang from Daye Village has good skills. You might as well open your own store, and people will naturally come to you if they want something.¡±


    ¡°Although the selling price is not as high as selling in the city, it¡¯s advantageous because you don¡¯t have to go to the city to deliver goods. Plus, you won¡¯t have to split the money with Boss Shi. Overall, you will earn more, not less.¡±


    But as soon as Yue Jiannan suggested it, Yue Xiaofang rejected it.


    ¡°Big brother, when I really had no other option, it was Boss Shi who gave me the opportunity. I can¡¯t betray him.¡±


    Yue Jiandong couldn¡¯t help but smile wryly. From a businessman¡¯s perspective, Yue Xiaofang and Shi Yongshou were simply engaging in mutually beneficial cooperation.


    Yue Xiaofang was skilled, and Shi Yongshou¡¯s orders were too many for him to handle, so he outsourced some to her.


    Money was exchanged, and goods were delivered, with no debts between them.


    But the sincere Xiaofang always remembered this act of kindness.


    There had been offers from private tailor shops willing to pay higher prices to poach Yue Xiaofang, but she had never been tempted.


    Now that Yue Jiandong was suggesting she start her own business, catering to the surrounding villages without competing with Shi Yongshou for customers, Yue Xiaofang still felt it was inappropriate.


    Yue Jiandong had no choice but to stop persuading her and only reminded her to be careful.


    ¡°When you go to the city, be cautious and keep an eye out for anyone following you.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang was attractive.


    The years following her divorce not only failed to leave a mark of hardship on her face but actually made Yue Xiaofang more charming than when she was unmarried.


    Although security had improved compared to the past, the road to the city was long, and encountering any lowlifes could be troublesome.


    Yue Xiaofang nodded solemnly, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, brother; I¡¯ll be careful.¡±


    Lin Chunju¡¯s approach to this problem was much more straightforward and rough.


    She suggested that Yue Xiaofang choose to go to the city when Yue Qingqing had time off, taking the child with her.


    In other households, the elders looked after the young ones, but in her family, having Qingqing accompany them felt more reassuring.


    Yue Xiaofang adored Qingqing dearly and considered her child¡¯s eagerness to visit the city as sufficient reason to go.


    Whenever Yue Qingqing accompanied her aunt, she was treated to delicious food, and nothing bad had happened.


    After delivering their goods, they could also take the opportunity to visit Yue Jiannan at school.


    Yue Jiannan said that when Yu Yaxian first saw him at school, she was shocked and scared, even taking two days off because she dared not attend classes.


    Only after realizing that Yue Jiannan had no intention of revealing her shameful secret did she muster the courage to return to her studies.


    Whatever Yu Yaxian told Song Qiming, he certainly looked at Yue Jiannan with contempt when he saw him.


    He even went out of his way to tell Yue Jiannan not to harbor any foolish hopes and insulted him, saying that a country bumpkin attending school was nothing more than a waste of family money.


    Yue Jiannan turned a deaf ear to these words and was single-mindedly devoted to his studies.


    Talking about this, Yue Jiannan couldn¡¯t hide his pride.


    ¡°Sis, I¡¯ve discovered that I am a genius. The teachers all praise my rapid progress. Whenever I encounter a problem I don¡¯t understand, I think it over carefully back in the dorm, and I can always figure it out.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang was delighted for her brother and said excitedly, ¡°Your talent wasn¡¯t evident when you were little. Otherwise, I would have insisted you go to school.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s what is called a late bloomer.¡±


    Yue Jiannan cheekily pinched Yue Qingqing¡¯s cheeks on both sides, stretching them out like a steamed bun.


    ¡°Qingqing, you should learn from your uncle.¡±


    Yue Qingqing, ¡°Ouch... ¡± I really should revoke your ¡®Spell¡¯.¡±

 Chapter 192 - 192 192 The Missing Diamond Necklace

    ?Chapter 192: Chapter 192: The Missing Diamond Necklace Chapter 192: Chapter 192: The Missing Diamond Necklace As the saying goes, train soldiers for a thousand miles to use them at one moment.


    Yue Qingqing had been loafing about with her aunt, and that day she really encountered an incident.


    Yue Xiaofang brought Qingqing and merchandise to Orchid Pavilion, and upon entering, they noticed the odd expressions on several clerks¡¯ faces.


    ¡°Xiaolin, what happened?¡±


    The called clerk shook his head, sighing, ¡°Xiaofang, better let the boss tell you.¡±


    Shi Yongshou emerged from the back, his face also clouded with gloom.


    A chill ran down Yue Xiaofang¡¯s spine.


    ¡°Mr. Shi, was there a problem with the item I delivered last time?¡±


    Yue Xiaofang¡¯s last delivery was a light-colored early spring coat with sleeve and back embroidery that was striking once worn.


    Mrs. Xue, the customer who ordered the coat, was a major client of Shi Yongshou and had placed her order before the new year.


    Yue Xiaofang had exerted a lot of effort on this coat to make it flawless.


    The embroidery took a long time, and it took two months to finally deliver the goods.


    Xue Yunlei liked it very much once she saw it and immediately wore it, only to feel after returning home that her waistline had expanded a bit over the year, so she brought it back to Yue Xiaofang for some alterations.


    Last time, Yue Xiaofang was bringing the altered coat back.


    Shi Yongshou remained silent, frowning at Yue Xiaofang.


    Yue Xiaofang felt increasingly uneasy.


    Yet she felt she had done the work wholeheartedly, so she did not avert her gaze, only looking back puzzled.


    After a long while, Shi Yongshou shifted his gaze, ¡°Mrs. Xue¡¯s diamond necklace is missing, she remembers putting it in the coat¡¯s pocket.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Yue Xiaofang was stunned, ¡°But I didn¡¯t see it.¡±


    There was a trace of sympathy in Shi Yongshou¡¯s eyes, ¡°I said it wouldn¡¯t have been you, but Mrs. Xue doesn¡¯t think so, that necklace was brought by her husband from abroad, and it¡¯s worth a lot, she won¡¯t rest until it¡¯s found.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang angrily said, ¡°Mrs. Xue can report it to the police, and let the police investigate this matter.¡±


    Shi Yongshou shook his head, ¡°Mrs. Xue and her husband have sensitive identities, they do not want the police involved.¡±


    Yue Qingqing saw Yue Xiaofang straighten her back again and again, her voice rising a few degrees.


    ¡°Then let Mrs. Xue have a good look, as I got the coat, its pockets were clean, I didn¡¯t see any necklace at all.¡±


    Yue Qingqing felt reassured, her aunt was no longer the timid person who would shy away at the slightest issue.


    This assertiveness caught the attention of the clerks in the store.


    Shi Yongshou sighed, ¡°Xiaofang, I know this matter concerns your integrity, but you are also aware of Mrs. Xue¡¯s status, if this matter is not investigated thoroughly, she won¡¯t let it go.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang asked, ¡°So what does she plan to do?¡±


    ¡°She said if you still appear here, to have me keep you here and then call her.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Yue Xiaofang grew even more infuriated, truly being treated as a thief.


    She pulled up two chairs, seated Qingqing on one, and then sat down herself.


    She boldly said, ¡°Then please trouble Mr. Shi to contact her.¡±


    Shi Yongshou already did not believe that Yue Xiaofang was responsible for this, and seeing her current demeanor, he was even more convinced.


    However, he also could not afford to offend Mrs. Xue, so he could only pick up the newly installed automatic telephone in the store and dial the number Mrs. Xue had left.


    Mrs. Xue arrived quickly, accompanied by a woman Yue Xiaofang and Yue Qingqing had met before.


    Zhuang Rouhui.


    Both women carried the aura of elite ladies, entering the shop with their necks held high, harsh gazes sweeping over Yue Xiaofang and Yue Qingqing.


    That look made Yue Xiaofang very uncomfortable.

 Chapter 193 - 193 193 A Dog Looking Down on People

    ?Chapter 193: Chapter 193: A Dog Looking Down on People Chapter 193: Chapter 193: A Dog Looking Down on People Mrs. Xue¡¯s brows furrowed the moment she saw Yue Xiaofang sitting in a chair as she entered the room.


    ¡°Yue Xiaofang, stand up for me.¡±


    A few years ago, Yue Xiaofang would certainly have gotten up with trepidation.


    But now, becoming more and more like her mother, Yue Xiaofang merely looked at her.


    ¡°Are you treating me as a criminal, Mrs. Xue?¡±


    Xue Yunlei did not expect Yue Xiaofang to be so bold and was momentarily at a loss for words.


    Standing to the side, Zhuang Rouhui sneered at Yue Xiaofang, ¡°You have a deft hand, and quite the nerve, stealing things and then having the audacity to show up here again. Do you really think we can do nothing about you?¡±


    Yue Xiaofang finally couldn¡¯t help but stand up, her face red with anger.


    ¡°Mrs. Zhuang, please don¡¯t make slanderous accusations. When have I stolen anything?¡±


    Zhuang Rouhui¡¯s gaze fell on Yue Qingqing and she said with a sneer, ¡°A country bumpkin wearing sneakers worth dozens of yuan, and carrying a cartoon watch ¡ª aren¡¯t these evidences enough?¡±


    Yue Qingqing glanced down at the sneakers her father had bought for her.


    She also looked at the Mickey Mouse watch her uncle had given her the last time he sold fish.


    The phrase ¡°looking down on people¡± involuntarily surfaced in her mind.


    Did this woman really believe that country folks should only wear patched clothes and nearly worn-out cloth shoes?


    Yue Xiaofang found it ridiculous, ¡°If you think that constitutes evidence, why not call the police and let them investigate whether the money used to buy these things is clean.¡±


    Xue Yunlei snorted, ¡°Don¡¯t be so defiant. Do you really think I¡¯m afraid to call the police? I heard you were divorced and sent back to your mother¡¯s house. Considering your circumstances, I thought I¡¯d give you a chance to confess and face a lighter punishment.¡±


    Zhuang Rouhui chimed in, ¡°Yunlei¡¯s necklace is worth several thousand yuan. If we call the police, you¡¯ll end up in jail for a few years at least. Think it over carefully.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang was too tired to argue further and said bluntly, ¡°There¡¯s no need for chances. If I did it, then let the police arrest me and put me in jail.¡±


    Xue Yunlei and Zhuang Rouhui exchanged glances, annoyance filling their eyes. They hadn¡¯t expected Yue Xiaofang to be so unyielding.


    But when it came to calling the police, Xue Yunlei genuinely lacked confidence.


    Ever since the loss was discovered, Xue Yunlei had been unable to find the missing item for a long time.


    It was only when Zhuang Rouhui visited and mentioned the embroidered jacket that Xue Yunlei remembered.


    The clasp on her diamond necklace had come loose at a previous banquet, and Xue Yunlei, afraid it would fall off, took it off and put it in her jacket pocket.


    But when she remembered later, it was gone, so she felt that Yue Xiaofang most likely took it.


    Zhuang Rouhui has always disdained those of humble origin and was even more convinced that Yue Xiaofang was the thief upon hearing this.


    However, Xue Yunlei¡¯s family was in business, with some aspects that couldn¡¯t bear scrutiny, and they were afraid of what might be revealed if they called the police over a necklace.


    Thus, they could only use this manner of intimidation, hoping Yue Xiaofang would confess on her own.


    Seeing Yue Xiaofang as unyielding as a brass pea, the two women were momentarily at a loss and felt both embarrassed and furious because they felt manipulated.


    Zhuang Rouhui narrowed her eyes, threatening Yue Xiaofang.


    ¡°If you admit to it and return the item, that¡¯ll be the end of it. But if you continue to be delusional, no one will dare to use your services in the future.¡±


    Shi Yongshou sighed inwardly; he fully believed Yue Xiaofang and saw clearly the insoluble dilemma she now faced.


    Zhuang Rouhui and Xue Yunlei had a lot of influence in the circles of high society.


    If the two of them joined hands to blacklist Yue Xiaofang, she would definitely lose all business through him.


    Not only that, but likely no high-end tailor shop would dare to employ Yue Xiaofang¡¯s skills.


    Yue Xiaofang was both angry and anxious, these two were trying to ruin her livelihood over a baseless accusation.

 Chapter 194 - 194 194 Strange Special Sensation

    ?Chapter 194: Chapter 194: Strange Special Sensation Chapter 194: Chapter 194: Strange Special Sensation At that moment, Yue Xiaofang thought of her older brother¡¯s words.


    A sense of bravery rose within her heart, and since these two insisted on making things difficult, she decided not to work under Shi Yongshou anymore.


    Heaven never seals off all exits; she could always open a tailoring shop in the village if nothing else worked out.


    Thinking this, Yue Xiaofang said coldly, ¡°Have it your way. If I did it, I did it; if I didn¡¯t, I didn¡¯t. Don¡¯t think about slandering me.¡±


    As she spoke, she took Yue Qingqing¡¯s hand. ¡°Let¡¯s go, we¡¯re going home.¡±


    Zhuang Rouhui hadn¡¯t expected Yue Xiaofang to respond like this and her irritation grew.


    She took two quick steps in her sheepskin boots, blocking Yue Xiaofang¡¯s path.


    ¡°You stop right there!¡±


    The sharp voice scraped painfully over Yue Xiaofang¡¯s eardrums, causing her to frown at Zhuang Rouhui.


    ¡°What do you want?¡±


    ¡°You are not leaving today until you explain things clearly.¡±


    Zhuang Rouhui crossed her arms and looked down on Yue Xiaofang from her elevated position.


    Yue Xiaofang took a deep breath, ¡°On what basis? What right do you have to do this?¡±


    Zhuang Rouhui sneered, ¡°On what basis? Because you¡¯re a thief! I¡¯ve seen plenty of people like you who never learn but always dream of reaping where they did not sow, who grow bold at the sight of profit.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t just Yue Xiaofang; the expressions of several shop employees there also darkened.


    Everyone could see that if Yue Xiaofang really had stolen something, she wouldn¡¯t have this sort of attitude.


    But Zhuang Rouhui was aggressively domineering, speaking with a tone that seemed to place herself above others¡ªdid she really think she was superior?


    Just then, a loud thud was heard.


    The sound of a microphone smashing on the counter was particularly jarring.


    Everyone looked in that direction and saw that Yue Qingqing had walked over to the desk where the phone was located, unbeknownst to them.


    She stood on tiptoes, straining to reach the microphone; but because she was small and not tall enough, the microphone didn¡¯t fall into her hands but instead dropped back onto the desk.


    Shi Yongshou was stunned, then heard the little girl¡¯s crisp voice.


    ¡°Auntie, I¡¯ll call the police for you.¡±


    Yue Qingqing tried standing on tiptoes again, hoping to grasp the microphone in her hand.


    But she totally forgot that she actually didn¡¯t know how to use a telephone, having only seen it on TV.


    Yue Xiaofang felt a warmth in her heart as she watched Yue Qingqing¡¯s attempt.


    Xue Yunlei¡¯s expression changed, ¡°Don¡¯t call the police!¡±


    Zhuang Rouhui took several strides forward and with a slap, violently threw the microphone back.


    Looking down and squinting at Yue Qingqing, she felt full of disgust.


    Yue Qingqing blinked, undeterred, stepped onto the stool again trying to reach the phone.


    As Zhuang Rouhui reached out her hand to push her away, the shop employees inhaled sharply.


    The child hadn¡¯t yet steadied herself on the stool; if she were pushed forcefully, she might land headfirst.


    Zhuang Rouhui¡¯s heart was too cruel!


    But just as her hand reached halfway, someone grabbed it fiercely.


    Yue Xiaofang glared viciously at Zhuang Rouhui, ¡°If you dare touch Qingqing today, I won¡¯t let this go.¡±


    The fierce look startled Zhuang Rouhui, but once she came to her senses, she was filled with indignation.


    ¡°Get away, don¡¯t touch me with your filthy hands!¡±


    Zhuang Rouhui shook off Yue Xiaofang¡¯s hand, and Yue Xiaofang, not wanting to argue further, reached over and carefully lifted Yue Qingqing off the stool.


    Yue Qingqing tilted her head to look at Zhuang Rouhui.


    When this woman was about to touch her just now, she felt an inexplicable dull thud in her heart.


    As a cultivator, she had special senses for many things concerning herself; could it be that this woman was related to her in some way?


    Zhuang Rouhui noticed that the child was staring at her and glared back viciously.


    Yue Qingqing pouted and looked away.


    Xue Yunlei finally realized that Yue Xiaofang was a tough nut to crack and began to harbor some doubts whether she had made a mistake.


    She only remembered that she had once put the necklace in the coat pocket; it was Zhuang Rouhui, her close friend, who asserted that it must have been the countrygirl Yue Xiaofang who took it because she liked to gain petty advantages.


    They had come here full of bluster, but the situation had become uncontrollable.


    Xue Yunlei whispered to Zhuang Rouhui, ¡°Forget it; it might not even be her.¡±


    What if they couldn¡¯t retrieve the necklace and ended up attracting the police instead?


    But Zhuang Rouhui was full of humiliation, ¡°No way, it couldn¡¯t have been anyone else.¡±


    Yue Qingqing¡¯s childish voice rang out, ¡°What if it really wasn¡¯t Auntie who stole it? Will you apologize to her?¡±


    Zhuang Rouhui replied without thinking, ¡°Hah, if the necklace is found and it proves that it wasn¡¯t Yue Xiaofang who stole it, we will apologize to her.¡±


    But all this was impossible. Xue Yunlei had already searched for a week without finding the necklace; how could it suddenly turn up.

 Chapter 195 - 195 195 Why Apologize

    ?Chapter 195: Chapter 195 Why Apologize Chapter 195: Chapter 195 Why Apologize Zhuang Rouhui¡¯s words made everyone present find them laughable.


    Who ever determined others as thieves first and then asked them to prove they¡¯re not?


    Moreover, the way Xue Yunlei was afraid to even call the police suggested that her family background might not be clean either.


    Shi Yongshou tried to smooth things over, ¡°Ladies, this matter might just be a misunderstanding. Yue Xiaofang has worked with me for several years, and she has never had any issues with dishonesty. How about we each take a step back? Xiaofang can apologize to you, and Mrs. Xue can go back and look again?¡±


    This offer gave Xue Yunlei a way out, and she was about to nod when she heard Zhuang Rouhui¡¯s sharp voice.


    ¡°Actually, we can let it go. We don¡¯t need the stuff. Consider it a charity to her, but Yue Xiaofang must admit she stole the necklace.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang had no intention of apologizing in the first place, and upon hearing this, she just snorted coldly, making her position clear with her attitude.


    She knew Shi Yongshou wanted her to apologize to keep her job.


    But Yue Xiaofang knew well that reputation was more important than money.


    If she gave in today, she would never be able to clear her name, not knowing how others might twist the story.


    Yue Qingqing comfortably stayed by her aunt¡¯s side, not the least bit panicked.


    After all, the truth would soon come out.


    Because of Zhuang Rouhui¡¯s unreasonable obstinacy, Shi Yongshou felt overwhelmed.


    Having dealt with wealthy women for so many years, he rarely encountered someone so irrational.


    Even Xue Yunlei felt awkwardly embarrassed, as it looked like her friend was trying to help her, but continuing to argue would lead nowhere.


    Just then, the store¡¯s phone suddenly rang.


    Shi Yongshou picked up the phone, and the male voice from the other end came through.


    The automated phone¡¯s volume was loud enough for almost everyone in the shop to hear.


    ¡°Is this Mr. Shi? Is my wife at your store?¡±


    Xue Yunlei immediately walked over and took the phone from Shi Yongshou¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Husband, it¡¯s me.¡±


    ¡°Your necklace has been found, some kid took it as a toy to the kindergarten. The teacher just found the necklace in the school¡¯s toy box and rushed it over.¡±


    Xue Yunlei¡¯s mind buzzed, her cheeks reddening almost to the point of dripping blood.


    She even felt annoyed¡ªwhy did it have to be found right now...


    ¡°Hello? Are you still there?¡± The man asked as there was no response from her end, repeating his inquiry a few times.


    Xue Yunlei hurriedly replied, ¡°Husband, I got it, I¡¯ll be home in a bit.¡±


    After hanging up the phone, Xue Yunlei hardly dared to look at Yue Xiaofang¡¯s face.


    Shi Yongshou could only offer her another way out, ¡°Haha, it seems I was right after all; it was just a misunderstanding. Now that the misunderstanding is resolved, there¡¯s no issue.¡±


    Xue Yunlei could only nod, ¡°Yes, thankfully it was all a misunderstanding.¡±


    Then she turned to take Zhuang Rouhui by the arm, ¡°The necklace is back, let¡¯s go home.¡±


    Zhuang Rouhui frowned and headed towards the exit.


    Before reaching the door, a little figure blocked the way in front of the glass door.


    ¡°Aunties, have you forgotten something?¡±


    Zhuang Rouhui wished she could kick her away, saying irritably, ¡°What more do you want?¡±


    ¡°Adults should keep their promises. You agreed to apologize to my aunty just now.¡±


    Zhuang Rouhui said angrily, ¡°She was just scolded a bit, didn¡¯t lose any flesh, we didn¡¯t make her pay money, why should we apologize?¡±


    She looked arrogantly at Yue Xiaofang, ¡°You had an attitude problem yourself. Had you explained properly from the start, wouldn¡¯t that have been the end of it? Reporting to the police and making such a fuss, we are being magnanimous by not holding it against you this time, and you can continue working here.¡±


    Yue Xiaofang¡¯s eyes widened, unable to contain her amazement at the presence of such a shameless person in the world.


    Before she could speak, Shi Yongshou quickly said, ¡°Let it go, Xiaofang, I have some work for you, come with me.¡±


    Anyone with eyes could see who was in the wrong, but that¡¯s the way the world works.


    If Yue Xiaofang truly wanted to stay, she would have to swallow her pride as if nothing had happened.


    Yet Yue Xiaofang shook her head and said to Zhuang Rouhui, ¡°Madam Zhuang, we both know who¡¯s right and who¡¯s wrong. I don¡¯t need your apology; I just hope you remember that not everyone has to grovel to you, and you should treat others as humans.¡±


    After saying this, she left with Yue Qingqing without looking back.


    Yue Qingqing turned to make a face at the two high-and-mighty ladies.


    ¡°Lame, breaking your word is shameful.¡±


    Zhuang Rouhui clenched her fists, wishing she could kick that annoying little brat away.

 Chapter 196 - 196 196 The Bizarre Curse Technique

    ?Chapter 196: Chapter 196 The Bizarre Curse Technique Chapter 196: Chapter 196 The Bizarre Curse Technique After returning home, Yue Xiaofang was not in high spirits.


    She had not expected her stable job to suddenly develop unexpected complications.


    Initially, Yue Xiaofang had thought it through, that in the worst case, she could open her own shop and be her own boss.


    But when that really seemed to be the only option, she started to feel lost.


    Could someone like her really do business like her older brother?


    Lin Chunju, always sensitive to the emotions of her family, noticed her daughter¡¯s low spirits and quickly asked what was wrong.


    Yue Xiaofang did not hide anything and recounted the whole situation.


    Since the matter had settled, Lin Chunju didn¡¯t make any further comments about the two people involved.


    Instead, she reassured Yue Xiaofang with a smile, ¡°Actually, I have the same thought as your eldest brother, you¡¯ve been often going to the city, and it makes your mother anxious.¡±


    The Yue Family was considered progressive, allowing their children to go to the city frequently.


    In the village, many conservative families wouldn¡¯t let their children visit, fearing traffickers and the possibility of their naive kids being arrested for things they didn¡¯t understand.


    Yue Xiaofang forced a smile, ¡°I won¡¯t go to the city anymore. I¡¯m thinking of opening a tailor shop in the village, but I¡¯m afraid there¡¯s no suitable location and that nobody would come.¡±


    Lin Chunju slapped her forehead, ¡°Isn¡¯t there a ready-made place? The two-story building that was supposed to be your third brother¡¯s marital home is big enough for this exact purpose.¡±


    Anyways, that boy won¡¯t be getting married until he finishes his studies, and who knows when that will be.


    It would be a waste to leave the house empty.


    Yue Xiaofang voiced her concern, ¡°There¡¯s a lot of new furniture and appliances inside, I¡¯m afraid they might get damaged.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that perfect? Move the appliances upstairs. If you¡¯re tired from working, you can stay over without having to run back home. Besides, a house without inhabitants loses its spirit, even if it¡¯s new, it would start to look shabby.¡±


    Persuaded by her mother, Yue Xiaofang¡¯s vague idea began to solidify.


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll give it a try and see if I get any customers; if I do, I¡¯ll continue.¡±


    Lin Chunju patted her hand, ¡°Old lady Zhou said that people have always wanted to commission your work, but they were worried that your fine skills would come at a high price. Now that you don¡¯t have to split the earnings with Boss Shi, you can offer a more affordable price, and customers will definitely flock to you.¡±


    Hearing her mother¡¯s exaggerated tone, Yue Xiaofang let out a chuckle.


    She said bashfully, ¡°We haven¡¯t even taken the first step yet, and mother is talking as if I am about to strike it rich.¡±


    ¡°Just you watch, mother¡¯s intuition is really sharp.¡±


    Seeing that Yue Xiaofang¡¯s eyes were no longer forlorn, Lin Chunju smiled, ¡°Start planning, and I¡¯ll go to the kitchen to prepare the braised meat.¡±


    At the mention of braised meat, Yue Qingqing¡¯s eyes lit up instantly.


    She followed her grandmother into the kitchen, step by step.


    Lin Chunju took the marinated meat out of the jar, placed it on the cutting board, and began to chop it, planning to later add it to the braising sauce for flavor.


    Watching Yue Qingqing crane her neck with the eager look of a little glutton fixated on the meat, Lin Chunju couldn¡¯t help but laugh.


    After laughing, she sighed inwardly.


    Why did the children of the Yue Family face so many hardships?


    The wife of the eldest son couldn¡¯t have children, and the second son had been bullied since he was young, which made him develop a sharp and uncommunicative disposition.


    Jiannan and Xiaofang¡¯s marriage was also problematic.


    Xiaofang had finally found a stable job, only for such an incident to happen out of the blue.


    Sigh, the members of the Yue Family work so hard, but it seems like fate always likes to play tricks on them.


    Her mind preoccupied, Lin Chunju slipped up and the knife slid down along her fingertip.


    The kitchen knife in Lin Chunju¡¯s hand had just been sharpened and was very sharp.


    If it had made a deep cut, it could have sliced off a significant piece of flesh.


    Fortunately, Yue Qingqing had sharp senses and had been watching the meat all along.


    She noticed something was wrong immediately and mobilized her spiritual energy.


    The kitchen knife veered off course, only grazing the skin.


    Only a small cut was made on the fingertip, with beads of blood rolling from the wound and dropping onto the cutting board.


    ¡°Oh, how could I be so careless!¡±


    Lin Chunju quickly rinsed it with water, distressed about the piece of meat on the cutting board that had been stained with blood.


    Well, it looked like it couldn¡¯t be eaten now.


    But Yue Qingqing¡¯s pupils contracted, her gaze fixed on that vibrant red.


    Through her eyes, grey-black worm-like shapes swarmed within the droplet of blood.


    They clustered densely together within the patch of red.


    At a glance, it was enough to make one¡¯s scalp tingle.


    This was... a curse technique?

 Chapter 197 - 197 197 Seeking Fortune from the Yue Family

    ?Chapter 197: Chapter 197: Seeking Fortune from the Yue Family Chapter 197: Chapter 197: Seeking Fortune from the Yue Family How could this be, had she seen it wrong?


    It was the first time Yue Qingqing didn¡¯t trust her own eyes.


    The Yue Family was just an ordinary family, how could they be cursed in this world where spiritual energy was sparse?


    But no matter how much Yue Qingqing rubbed her eyes, the scene before her remained unchanged.


    She couldn¡¯t resist calling out, ¡°Grandma!¡±


    Lin Chunju had just wrapped a clean cloth around her hand, and when she heard Yue Qingqing¡¯s voice so anxious, she immediately misunderstood.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, Qingqing, there¡¯s other meat. We¡¯ll definitely get to eat today.¡±


    Yue Qingqing was both amused and frustrated. Was she so gluttonous in her grandmother¡¯s eyes?


    ¡°It¡¯s not about the meat, it¡¯s the blood!¡±


    Yue Qingqing pointed at the drops of blood that had not yet dried on the chopping board, but Lin Chunju didn¡¯t understand what she meant.


    To her, that drop of blood couldn¡¯t be more normal.


    Yue Qingqing knew she couldn¡¯t explain it in a normal way, so she pulled out the piece of mutton-fat jade from her chest.


    Her fingertips touched a bit of the scarlet blood and wiped it on the mutton-fat jade.


    The previously transparent and lustrous jade suddenly lost its brilliance, as if it was cloaked in a layer of mist.


    When Yue Qingqing exerted some spiritual energy, the faint redness turned pitch black.


    A chilling sensation enveloped Lin Chunju, who didn¡¯t dare blink as she stared at the jade.


    The blackness on the jade seemed to grow legs and quickly crawled downward, about to touch the ground.


    With a flick of her fingertips, Yue Qingqing made the blackness quietly vanish into the air, as if it had never existed.


    The mutton-fat jade regained its original sheen.


    Lin Chunju witnessed this scene with her own eyes.


    Though she had known that Yue Qingqing was no ordinary person, she still felt as if she was in a dreamlike daze.


    ¡°Qingqing, what is this?¡±


    ¡°Someone is borrowing from you, from the Yue Family¡¯s Qi Fortune!¡± Yue Qingqing said with conviction.


    Lin Chunju almost lost her balance, staggering a few times before steadying herself against a nearby cabinet.


    ¡°What does that mean? Grandma doesn¡¯t understand.¡±


    Yue Qingqing pondered how to explain it to her.


    In her past life, Yue Qingqing had heard of Qi Fortune borrowing, just like her own fortune alteration, which was not tolerated by the Heavenly Dao.


    It involves transferring someone else¡¯s Qi Fortune onto oneself while one¡¯s own disasters are borne by the other.


    From the very description, one can tell how sinister Qi Fortune borrowing is, and the Heavenly Dao would never allow such an evil technique to exist.


    Therefore, those who practice the Curse Technique of Qi Fortune borrowing often use their own lives as a stake to succeed in the technique.


    Even greater than the price Yue Qingqing paid for altering her fortune!


    However, there were always cultivators who were adept at exploiting loopholes and found a new rule.


    They discovered that borrowing Qi Fortune is not tolerated by Heaven and Earth, but this restriction does not exist between blood relatives.


    A highly skilled female cultivator, desperate for a child, finally conceived after a hundred years.


    The child, after being born, was cursed by a demon clan elder, doomed to die of a violent illness twenty years after his birth.


    The female cultivator, in order to save her son, defied the heavens and used the technique of fortune alteration, willing to exchange her life for her son¡¯s smooth and peaceful life.


    However, the female cultivator only lost some cultivation base in the end, and the child¡¯s curse was broken.


    The only side effect was that the great fortune originally borne by the female cultivator was transferred to her son, who eventually became a powerful cultivator.


    Evil cultivators with ulterior motives then discovered that the fortune alteration technique could be exercised through blood ties.


    Perhaps in the eyes of the Heavenly Dao, parents caring for their children and siblings looking after their younger ones are acts of kindness, within the permissible scope of the rules.


    But the rigid Heavenly Dao probably never anticipated that afterwards, many clans would have children born to less favored branches for the purpose of borrowing Qi Fortune.


    Doomed from birth to have their Qi Fortune borrowed by the family.


    This person would be plagued by misfortune, unable to advance in cultivation, and the descendants they bore would also suffer from borrowing Qi Fortune due to the same bloodline.


    And those who borrowed from their Qi Path would prosper and flourish with Qi Fortune.


    Therefore, the victims of Qi Fortune borrowing were disdainfully called ¡°human livestock¡± by the evil cultivators.


    They were merely livestock providing Qi Fortune.


    Of course, when the evil cultivators¡¯ deeds were exposed to the world, because they were too cruel and evil, they were eradicated by the cultivators of the Righteous Path.


    But Yue Qingqing had never expected to see such a curse technique in this world again.

 Chapter 198 - 198 198 Bloodline Curse Technique

    ?Chapter 198: Chapter 198 Bloodline Curse Technique Chapter 198: Chapter 198 Bloodline Curse Technique Lin Chunju looked at Yue Qingqing, her mind filled with confusion.


    ¡°What is borrowing Qi Fortune? Was everything I saw just now real?¡±


    Yue Qingqing cleared her throat and decided to tell the truth.


    ¡°It means that someone with the same bloodline as you is using the power of the bloodline to absorb Grandmother¡¯s good fortune, while his misfortune is transferred to you through the bloodline.¡±


    ¡°Because Dad, Second Uncle, Youngest Uncle, and Auntie have your bloodline, they will also have their good fortune borrowed. If we think about the long term, Xingxing and Xiaohu will be the same.¡±


    Yue Qingqing didn¡¯t mention herself, as she was well aware that she did not share Lin Chunju¡¯s bloodline.


    This was also why she only discovered today that Lin Chunju was subject to this fortune borrowing.


    After all, this kind of Curse Technique operates only through the bloodline, and even the most powerful cultivators would find it hard to detect.


    If she hadn¡¯t been able to see Qi Fortune, she probably wouldn¡¯t have been able to find out about this from Lin Chunju¡¯s blood.


    Lin Chunju closed her eyes, feeling waves of dizziness wash over her.


    It took her a good while to finally understand what Yue Qingqing had said.


    Logically, she found it impossible to believe.


    Yet the incidents that had happened to her family over the years made it impossible for her not to believe.


    Before Qingqing had come to their home, the Yue Family¡¯s bad luck was well-known throughout the village.


    Every time their life started to get better, something would seem to happen that brought them right back to square one.


    If Lin Chunju hadn¡¯t been so resilient, she might have hung herself from the house beam long ago.


    The turning point for the Yue Family¡¯s rise was exactly when Qingqing was brought back home by the eldest son¡¯s wife.


    If not for Qingqing, the youngest son would have lost his life in the hills the next day.


    ¡°Borrowing Qi Fortune... borrowing my fortune, the children¡¯s fortune...¡±


    Lin Chunju muttered to herself, suddenly recalling what Yue Qingqing had said.


    ¡°Only through the bloodline?¡±


    Yue Qingqing sighed and nodded, ¡°Yes.¡±


    Lin Chunju felt the world spin around her, almost falling to the ground.


    Yue Qingqing quickly grasped her arm. Lin Chunju, worried about crushing the children, could only grit her teeth and stand firm.


    Tears welled up in her eyes, ¡°How could he do this, my brother couldn¡¯t possibly do these things.¡±


    Yue Qingqing lowered her head, not daring to speak. She once heard from her master.


    There was a young girl who had been pampered by her family from a young age, who would have the stars if she wished it, or the moon if she desired it, especially doted on by her elder sister.


    Although the girl couldn¡¯t cultivate and was frail and ill, she was full of gratitude for her family.


    But only until she was on her deathbed did she realize that she was nothing more than human livestock nurtured by the family.


    The affection the family showed the girl was mere illusion, meant to supply her with Qi Fortune so she could live longer.


    The master said that although the girl was mortal, in her final moment she exploded and died, and because her soul was filled with resentment, she couldn¡¯t reincarnate from the Underworld. Instead, she had to linger unwillingly near her family.


    In the end, her soul was scattered by the very sister who had borrowed her Qi Fortune, vanishing from the world.


    But seeing how utterly heartbroken Grandmother was, Yue Qingqing could only comfort her quietly, ¡°Maybe it was the people around your brother who did it. He might not know about it?¡±


    Lin Chunju shook her head, her jaws clenched so tight she couldn¡¯t utter a word.


    It was a long time before Lin Chunju spoke again.


    ¡°Qingqing, can you tell when Grandmother¡¯s Qi Fortune was borrowed?¡±


    Yue Qingqing pondered for a moment, took Lin Chunju¡¯s hand, and unwrapped the cloth from her injured finger.


    She squeezed gently, and a drop of blood emerged from the wound that was about to heal.


    Yue Qingqing enveloped the drop of blood with Spiritual Energy, halting it midair.


    She bent down and blew on Lin Chunju¡¯s wound, then wrapped it up again.


    Lin Chunju forced a smile at her, ¡°Grandmother will be okay.¡±


    Yue Qingqing blew at the drop of blood in the air, which suddenly increased in volume by dozens of times.


    It swirled around as if it were a fish swimming in midair, its tail flicking back and forth.


    Yet, its surface was covered with black markings, giving it a somewhat fearsome appearance.


    Yue Qingqing observed intently the trail left by the moving drop of blood until the red color faded from dark to light, eventually dispersing into nothingness.


    ¡°It¡¯s been too long, at least thirty years ago.¡±