《Rebirth: Solely Cherished by the Devoted Commander》


 Chapter 1: Back Again?

    <h4>Chapter 1 - 1: Back Again?</h4>

    In the early hours of midsummer, just as dawn broke, the fields were already bustling with activity.

    Sun Chan bent over in the corn rows, weeding, with bruises on her face and body from her husband''s beatings. Her arms were too weak to lift, but her husband would never do these chores. If she didn''t hurry, the crops would be ruined.

    After working for several hours, she was so exhausted that she saw stars. As she tried to stand, her legs gave way, causing her to copse onto the ground. The earth was scorching, and the pain made her groan, but she couldn''t move at all.

    Bitterness welled up in Sun Chan''s heart, yet she felt relieved: I might just work myself to death like this...

    In a daze, she felt a cold sensation as water was poured over her head, soaking her entirely. In the heat, it made her shiver all over, and then someone pushed her hard, with a familiar voice ringing in her ears.

    "All you do is eat and sleep! Abandoned and humiliated, yet you still have the nerve?"

    Sun Chan sat up, dazed. Wasn''t she dead? How could she still be scolded for not working now that she''s in the underworld?

    Looking at her adoptive mother, Zhao Xiuxia, who appeared much younger, she was momentarily confused about what was happening.

    Her eyes nced around at the shabby courtyard, the mud walls, and missing ss patched up with stic bags.

    Everything was so familiar. Sun Chan suddenly covered her mouth, terror filling her eyes. She had been reborn twenty years ago, to the day before her engagement!

    Zhao Xiuxia was still nagging, but Sun Chan''s heart was overwhelmed with excitement, unable to hear anything clearly.

    Zhao Xiuxia was her adoptive mother, widowed early on, with only one son and one daughter under her care.

    But the son had some mental issues and couldn''t speak at four years old; her daughter Sun Lijuan was three years younger, clever and lively, and also quite pretty.

    Zhao Xiuxia wasn''t adept at farm work, which kept the Sun Family poor, and her son was a fool. Zhao Xiuxia was always worried about her son''s marriage. Coincidentally, when the son turned five, someone found a newborn baby girl abandoned near the vige well.

    Zhao Xiuxia took her in and named her Sun Chan.

    From a young age, she was raised as a child bride, with the n to marry her off to serve the son when grown, but the son died of an illness before turning twelve, ruining her ns.

    Over the years, Sun Chan worked at home like a servant, handling farm chores, feeding pigs, washingundry, and cooking. Zhao Xiuxia and Sun Lijuan constantly mistreated her.

    Seeing she was seventeen and attractive, they began plotting to sell her for money. Who knew this stubborn girl would find herself a partner, but luckily it failed, or they wouldn''t get any bride price.

    Seeing Sun Chan was unresponsive, Zhao Xiuxia jabbed her forehead with her finger, "Just know how to y dead and not work, huh? Am I supposed to handle farm work?"

    Sun Chan dodged her hand, indifferent to her words, as heaven had given her a chance to start anew. She would take control of her fate, and she''d rather die than marry Zhou Jinzhu!

    "Hurry to the fields to work, or I''ll deal with you!"

    "When have I ever beenzy? Don''t I handle all the chores at home? I only got sick for a few days, and you treat me like this? No matter what, you have to let me recover for your sake so I can marry and earn you money." Sun Chan''s tone was mocking, the resentment and helplessness of decades towards her adoptive mother surfacing.

    "You wretched girl... But, you''re agreeing to the engagement?"

    Sun Chan had always opposed this marriage, even falling ill because of it. Zhao Xiuxia worried if she pushed too hard, she''d drive her to death, causing trouble, and losing the bride price would be impossible then.

    Without responding, Sun Chan slid her feet into her shoes and walked out.

    "Where are you going? To find Ding Hu again?"

    "What if I am?"

    Initially suppressing her temper, Zhao Xiuxia couldn''t hold back upon hearing this, shouting, "That stinking kid''s family is dirt poor, with a crazy mother. I''ve advised you countless times to end it, and you didn''t listen. So what now? He turned around and hooked up with Liu Mei, going to Liu Family as a live-in son-inw. Aren''t they humiliating us in the same vige?"

    Speaking of it, the idea of Ding Hu and Liu Mei being together was suggested by Sun Chan''s sister, Sun Lijuan.

    She and Zhao Xiuxia both wanted Sun Chan sold for a good price, so how could they let her marry a poor guy? Sun Lijuan encouraged her friend Liu Mei to pursue Ding Hu, and even though Liu Mei wasn''t pretty, her family was wealthy, and eventually, they got together.

    Returning to life, Sun Chan had no hatred for Sun Lijuan because Ding Hu was aplete scumbag.

    Zhao Xiuxia strained her neck, saying, "This time, no matter what you say, I''ll have you marry whoever I choose!"

    "Is it marrying me or selling me? Sounds nice indeed." Sun Chan replied slowly, "Do you think I don''t know? Selling me for a five-hundred-yuan bride price to a drunken old widower, he''s a beast. I will never marry him!"

    Thinking of that person made Sun Chan''s heart clench tightly.

    In her past life, Ding Hu greedily pursued wealth and abandoned her. Heartbroken, Sun Chan let Zhao Xiuxia arrange her marriage to Zhou Jinzhu.

    She realized toote that Zhou Jinzhu was an abusive scumbag. His former wife hanged herself, unable to bear his beatings. He did nothing but drank gambled and crazily abused his wife.

    She endured several miscarriages from beatings, while her family took money from him and constantly urged her not to divorce.

    Sun Lijuan used money from the Zhou Family for a small business and married in the city, living happily. But Sun Chan was left unable to bear children and had to adopt a son from Zhou Family rtives.

    Liangliang... The thought of that poor child deeply saddened Sun Chan. She hoped after her death the boy would return to his parents, otherwise he would suffer as well.

    "You stupid girl, don''t hope Ding Hu will help you anymore. Prepare for the engagement tomorrow. I refuse to believe you can defy me!" Zhao Xiuxia adopted a mother''s authority, lecturing her.

    Sun Chan ignored her, took the washbasin, and squatted in the yard to wash her face.

    Her hands returned to their delicate and fair form, with some calluses. When she died, her hands were rough as tree bark, full of cuts, despite being only in her thirties, but looking fifty.

    Zhao Xiuxia followed her out, saying, "I''ve raised you for so many years, you owe me plenty. Anyway, we''ve already received the Zhou Family''s betrothal gifts, so you must marry. Marriage is decided by parents."

 Chapter 2: I Want to Leave Here

    <h4>Chapter 2 - 2: I Want to Leave Here</h4>

    Sun Chan sneered, "If I had known you would treat me like this, I would have rather starved to death by the well than suffer a lifetime of hardship."

    "You... you heartless girl! Is this how a daughter should behave? It was already hard enough for me to raise you!"

    "I started working for you when I was three or four years old. I have never freeloaded at home. I owe you nothing. If you doubt me, why not ask others to judge? I''m just afraid you''ll get scolded." With that, Sun Chan walked straight out.

    "Stop right there! How can you go to the fields without a hoe?"

    Sun Chan didn''t stop. She wasn''t heading to the fields. She had matters to resolve; she wanted to leave this vige.

    In her past life, she envied the girls from the same vige who went to the city for work and school, but her husband feared she''d run away and never let her go to the city even once.

    So, her entire life was trapped in that barren and isted ce, toiling like a donkey for years, ultimately dying of exhaustion in the cornfield.

    Since she was reborn, she wanted changes to happen.

    Sun Chan went to Wang Dan''s house. They were primary school ssmates, of the same age. Wang Dan now worked at a department store, and Sun Chan wanted Wang Dan to help her find a way out in the city.

    Wang Dan was very pragmatic and astute. In her previous life, she advised Sun Chan several times not to rush into marriage: "People in the city marry when they''re over twenty. You''re only seventeen and can''t even get a marriage certificate yet, so why rush? Work hard in the city for two years, then see. Besides, the man you''re marrying isn''t great. Why not reconsider?"

    But in her past life, Sun Chan was too weak-minded, pressured by her mother and sister; coupled with Ding Hu''s abandonment, she married nheless.

    Zhou Jinzhu was the kind of person who once drove Wang Dan away with a broom, using her of corrupting his wife.

    And Sun Chan didn''t dare confront anyone for fear of being beaten, feeling sorry for Wang Dan in retrospect.

    Just as Sun Chan stepped into Wang Dan''s yard, she heard voices inside. There was also a bicycle by the window, a luxury item for countryside folks worth over three hundred yuan!

    In the vige, only wealthy families could afford this during gift-giving asions.

    Wang Dan seemed very angry, shouting, "I can''t ept this! Either send your sister and her child away, and I''ll agree, or we break off. Without you, I can still find someone to marry!"

    "Dandan!" Wang Dan''s mother Liu Yun reprimanded, "Watch how you speak!"

    "Mom, leave it be. Captain Gu, this is my life. I can''t agree to such demands. Let''s end it. You''re a good man, but we''re not suited. You should go back." Although Sun Chan hesitated about hiding, the door opened and a tall man walked out, dressed in military uniform, in his twenties, looking genteel. Sun Chan had never seen him before, so she only nced and quickly lowered her head.

    Liu Yun escorted him out, appeasing him with a smile, "My Dandan is young; she''s the only child at home, and a bit too headstrong. I''ll scold herter. Please don''t take offense."

    "Auntie, it''s okay. Rtionships require mutual consent. I do have family difficulties that ordinary girls can''t ept. I have things at home, so I''ll head back first. Please don''t scold her." Despite the treatment, Gu Junming remained calm, showing no anger and even defending Wang Dan, which impressed Sun Chan.

    Liu Yun apanied him outside cautiously.

    Gu Junming merely nced at Sun Chan before riding away.

    Only when she saw Sun Chan did Liu Yun feel displeased; her daughter''s rtionship had just ended, and her mood was already bad. Plus, Sun Chan was a pushover, from a poor family. Could she being for a loan now that she''s engaged?

    "Chan''er, what brings you here?"

    "I wanted to discuss something with Dandan." Sun Chan knew discernment, sensing their disdain. But the matter was urgent; she was set to be engaged to Zhou Jinzhu tomorrow, so she had to persist.

    Wang Dan came out and, seeing her, instantly said with a smile, "Sun Chan, you''re here? Sorry you had to witness it. Things didn''t work out with my match. He''s a captain, but his sister is divorced with a child, his father is blind, and his mother is sick. Living together after marriage is unbearable for me, so I ended it."

    Wang Dan spoke candidly, leaving Sun Chan unsure how to respond, only managing a reluctant smile.

    "Yes, it seems like we were not destined."

    "Indeed, I still wish to find someone better." Wang Dan was attractive, with a round face and big eyes, a fuller figure fitting the beauty standards of that era.

    Liu Yun remarked, "You shameless girl! Tomorrow the vige will be buzzing with gossips, calling you arrogant!"

    "What''s wrong with that? I can''t risk my future for reputation. Mom, hurry and make me some food; I''m hungry!"

    "You''re already old enough, yet you want me to serve you!" Although Liu Yun was displeased, she went inside. She didn''t want her daughter''s burdens to be heavy; ending it was better than a bad match.

    Wang Dan handed a stool to Sun Chan, "Do you want to try some freshly picked persimmons?"

    "No need." Sun Chan took a deep breath before resolutely saying, "Wang Dan, can you take me to the city?"

    Wang Dan was stunned, looking at her in great surprise, "Have you really made up your mind?" This girl, always bullied by her stepmother and sister, was easy to manipte. Wang Dan couldn''t stand it sometimes, hence her advice. Unexpectedly, she was willing to go to the city.

    Sun Chan nodded, "I''ve thought it through. Relying on others is not as good as relying on myself. I want to go out and see the world. Even if I don''t make money, I won''t regret it."

    "Okay! d you''vee to terms. But does your mother know about this?"

    Sun Chan bit her lip and shook her head, causing Wang Dan some difficulty.

    "You know your mother''s temper. If she uses me of leading you astray, that would be trouble for me."

    Sun Chan urgently pleaded, "Rest assured, I''ll never involve you nor tell anyone you helped me. Please, Wang Dan, you know what kind of life I lead at home. I don''t want to marry Zhou Jinzhu!"

    "Well... okay, I''m going back the day after tomorrow. You can find me at my house then."

    Sun Chan said, "No, I''ll go to the city, then find you there."

    Tomorrow she was set to be engaged to Zhou Jinzhu. If she didn''t leave now, her life would be over.

    Wang Dan also thought meeting in the city was best. If someone saw her, she could say they met by chance.

 Chapter 3 The First Love is a Jerk

    <h4>Chapter 3 - 3 The First Love is a Jerk</h4>

    Wang Dan said, "That works, juste to the mall where I sell scarves to find me."

    "I''m really grateful to you, um... do I need to prepare anything?"

    "Well, not much, just a few clothes, toiletries, and some travel expenses. As for amodation, you can stay at my dorm first, and move out once you find a job." Wang Dan felt especially sympathetic toward this poor little sister.

    Sun Chan kept expressing her gratitude as Wang Dan saw her out.

    Walking on the road, Sun Chan felt a little nervous. She had no money on her now. But even so, she had to leave, believing that the heavens would not forsake her.

    I want to leave the vige and see the world outside!

    On the way back, she was preupied with this major decision and didn''t notice someone approaching, nearly colliding with them.

    Sun Chan didn''t look up and instinctively stepped aside to let the other person pass first.

    "Sun Chan, it''s me. I came to find you." The person was a tall, strong man with thick brows and big eyes, giving off an honest vibe. He was wearing a slightly worn white shirt and was none other than her former partner, Ding Hu.

    Ding Hu''s family resented Sun Chan for being adopted and insisted that if she married into the family, she wouldn''t bring any dowry. This caused constant friction, eventually leading to their breakup. Furthermore, his family was in debt for pesticide and seed money to the vige, which they couldn''t repay each year. Left with no choice, hepromised and got engaged to Liu Mei.

    These past few days, he had been feeling distressed, wanting to find Sun Chan but not daring to. He could only wander around her house. Who knew such a coincidence would ur today?

    Sun Chan looked just as beautiful as before, with her shiny ck hair. Though her clothes were tattered, they couldn''t hide her elegant demeanor.

    Ding Hu''s heart warmed: This is the woman I truly love.

    But upon seeing him, Sun Chan didn''t disy any joy. Instead, she showed a trace of disgust, frowning and stepping back a few steps: "Do you have any business with me?"

    "Don''t be like this, Chan''er, I truly care about you."

    Sun Chanughed coldly inside, care?

    In her past life, Ding Hu always professed his care for her. Even after marriage, while living in the same vige, close to each other, he never helped once when she suffered. Sun Chan never med him, as after all, they were each living their own lives.

    But this man, on a rainy day, crawled into the shed where she was taking shelter to take advantage of her. Only after biting and scratching him did she manage to drive him away,

    When Liu Mei discovered his wounds, Ding Hu even framed Sun Chan for seducing him.

    Liu Mei stormed over with a rolling pin, causing a scene. The entire vige pointed fingers at her, calling her shameless and promiscuous, clinging to her past love despite being married for years. Zhou Jinzhu even beat her so badly that she couldn''t get out of bed for several days.

    Ding Hu continued behaving as if nothing happened, trying to take advantage of her behind others'' backs.

    He even said, "If you ept me, I won''t say anything to anyone. Otherwise, with just one word, you''ll be the one suffering!"

    Frightened, she avoided him as much as possible, and with the vigers'' scorn, her life was as miserable as a rat running across the street. The thought of his past actions filled her with hatred.

    It was good they broke up, or marrying him would have led to the same miserable fate!

    Ding Hu spoke tenderly, "I came to see you. I know you haven''t been well these days."

    "Nothing''s wrong." Sun Chan replied coolly, "Since you''re engaged, just live well with her. Why keep looking for me? You should hurry back."

    Ding Hu opened his mouth but his heart sank: "Sun Chan, can''t you be a bit less cold? I didn''t want to break up with you either, it was my parents who forced me. Why can''t you understand me at all?" When he first brought up the breakup, she kept crying and begging him to stay, so he thought it safe toe looking for her, hoping for some warmth behind his wife''s back.

    But who would have thought she''d turn so cold?

    "Heh, so because you''re wronged, even if you''re married, we should still continue. You want me to be your mistress? What do you take me for?" Sun Chan mocked, "Since we broke up, we shouldn''t associate with each other anymore. I never realized you had such poor character before?"

    Ding Hu looked embarrassed, hanging his head, "Sun Chan, I''m forced too. But I really care about you. If afterward, you have any problems in the vige, just tell me. I will help you."

    "There''s no need. I won''t need it, and besides, I won''t stay in the vige."

    "What? You''re leaving? That can''t be, aren''t you going to get engaged to Zhou Jinzhu?" He looked at her in disbelief. He had waited for so long, hadn''t even held her hand!

    Sun Chan smiled, "Who said I''m going to get engaged to him? If I want to go, I''ll go, it''s none of your business."

    This shameless person, knowing I was about to enter a pit, not only didn''t care but also wanted to take advantage.

    Ding Hu panicked, still wanting to keep her by his side. After all, he really couldn''t stand Liu Mei''s appearance, while Sun Chan was more delicate. How could he have had a rtionship for so long and never even held her hand? What a loss.

    Ding Hu blocked Sun Chan, "Wait for me, Sun Chan. I don''t have feelings for Liu Mei, I''m willing to divorce her. Give me time, once my family''s debts are paid, I''ll surely divorce her."

    Sun Chan looked at him coldly, feeling a wave of nausea: "If you have no feelings for Liu Mei, why marry her? And why should I wait for you? It''s over. You know the most important thing to our vige people is reputation, don''t you? How dare you want me to live with you ambiguously? Forget it. Don''t bother me again in the future!"

    "Sun Chan, that''s not what I meant. Please hear me out..." He said while grabbing Sun Chan''s hand, attempting to pull her into his arms.

    "Get away! Or I''ll shout until the whole vige knows. See how shameless you are!" Sun Chan suddenly pushed him away, her face flushed with anger, her breathing quickened. Thinking of his shameless behavior in her past life, her face filled with rage: "You''re quite the big man, doing such disgraceful things, aren''t you afraid of others pointing fingers at you?"

    Ding Hu felt unwilling, knowing she still liked him once, how did she suddenly be like this?

    He was about to soften his words and try to mend things when a woman''s scream came from behind, "You shameless slut, what are you doing flirting with my man in broad daylight!" It was Liu Mei.

    Her body was stout, her shirt tight against her plump figure. Her dark skin, bulbous nose, and small, angry eyes red at the closeness between the two, seething with jealousy. She wished she could tear that pretty face of Su Chan''s, storming over with anger.

    Sun Chan, no longer the timid one from her past life, let out a coldugh, waiting for her toe.

 Chapter 4 Confrontation

    <h4>Chapter 4 - 4 Confrontation</h4>

    Ding Hu nervously said to Sun Chan, "You should leave first."

    "Why? If I leave, who knows how you''ll gossip about me with your wife," Sun Chan said, not even ncing at Ding Hu.

    Liu Mei pointed at Sun Chan and started yelling, "Have you no shame? I''m his fianc��e now, and you still dare to flirt with him?"

    Sun Chan sneered, "Watch your mouth. I haven''t been flirting with him. Besides, what''s there worth flirting over him? Since I was a child, I''ve heard from the vigers that people who despise the poor and love the rich are not to be trusted. Even women are like this, men are even more shameless. I must have been blind before, but from now on, I''ll be more wary. Even if he was given to me for free, I''d refuse."

    Liu Mei was so choked by Sun Chan''s words that she couldn''t speak, ring at Ding Hu, "What exactly is going on?"

    Ding Hu never expected Sun Chan to talk like this, and seeing his fianc��e angry, he grew very nervous.

    He held Liu Mei''s hand, "Let''s go. I just happened to run into her and exchanged a few words. That''s all."

    "That''s nonsense! Can''t you see this vixen has been pulling you in? From now on, don''t talk to her, or I''ll rip your face apart!"

    Ding Hu bowed his head and tugged at Liu Mei, "Let it go, it''s not easy for her either, don''t, don''t hold a grudge."

    Did he just admit it was Sun Chan seducing him?

    Sun Chan always had a good temper, buting back to life, she wouldn''t hold back when others threw dirt on her.

    She swung at him with a p, the sound crisp, her hand even went numb from the hit. Ding Hu''s face quickly swelled red, staggering almost to the ground.

    Both Ding Hu and Liu Mei stood agape; Sun Chan had never dared to speak loudly in the vige, so how could she dare hit someone?

    Sun Chan coldly stared at Ding Hu, "Do you know why I hit you? I''m a girl who hasn''t married yet, and you dare ruin my reputation to my face��don''t you deserve a beating? You instigated this, your fianc��e nders me in front of you, and you don''t even stop her. It''s so disgusting it makes me want to vomit, I won''t forgive you, you need to exin to her right now what really happened! You might not care about losing face, but I do!"

    Ding Hu''s face went white and red, unable to argue at all.

    Liu Mei lunged to scratch her face, "You little brat, have you learned to curse people now!"

    Sun Chan forcefully pushed Liu Mei aside. She''d done farm work for years, whereas Liu Mei lived infort��no match for her. Liu Meinded hard on the ground, crying out in pain, her mouth full of curses.

    "Someonee and see this hussy, seducing my fianc��e, shameless tramp!"

    Sun Chan coldly replied, "Stop your tantrum! It''s just a chance encounter, and you start cursing and fighting? Are you really that scared I''ll steal Ding Hu?"

    With those provoking words, Liu Mei wouldn''t stand for it, "Don''t tter yourself! You''re just some bastard from nowhere, dirt poor, and actually think you can rival me? Why should I fear you!"

    Sun Chan didn''t mind, "Then why are you so anxious? The way you hurry and worry, anyone looking might think you can''t control Ding Hu. If worstes to worst, dig out his eyes��the vige has plenty of women anyway, so you don''t have to keep fretting every day."

    By now, many vigers returning from the fields had gathered, curiously watching the three arguing.

    Liu Mei didn''t want to be the subject of gossip either, spat on the ground, got up, and dragged Ding Hu forward, "Stay away from Ding Hu from now on, or I''ll show you no mercy!"

    Sun Chan sneered, "Who''d care about a person like that, you''d better keep him in check."

    With that, she turned and left.

    All the way, Ding Hu stole nces back several times, but all Sun Chan showed was her back, walking away so resolutely. His heart felt as if it were soaking in vinegar, unbearably sour. He felt this was Sun Chan ming him for having gotten engaged. How could he win her back?

    As she made her way home, Sun Chan was gued by headaches, how could she get some money? Leaving home without money wouldn''t do.

    Zhao Xiuxia had never given her money; dating Ding Hu was solely because of his sweet talk. She never acted like other girls, asking for money all around. What should she do now?

    She shook her head, it didn''t matter, let''s get to the city first and deal with it then. After all, she had hands and feet; she wouldn''t starve.

    She pondered all the way back home, and as soon as she entered the yard, she heardughtering from the east room. It was her elder sister, Sun Lijuan.

    She was studying at a vocational school in the city.

    This time she was home because their mother wanted to arrange a marriage between Sun Chan and Zhou Jinzhu, thinking she coulde back for a good meal, and she had been plotting over the gift money from the Zhou family for quite some time, wanting heaps of things.

    Just as Sun Chan entered, Zhao Xiuxia came out, carrying a small basin to the vegetable garden, smiling as she spoke to the daughter inside, "I''ll stir-fry cucumbers with eggs for you, toss some tomatoes, and cook all the cured meat fromst time!"

    "Alright! At the school cafeteria in the city, we barely eat meat once a week," Sun Lijuanughed, "Mom is the best!"

    "Once we sell off that girl, I''ll buy delicious food for you every day! And get you some nice clothes!"

    "You better mean it!"

    Zhao Xiuxia was about to reply when she saw Sun Chan standing before her, wearing a half-smile. Zhao Xiuxia''s smile stiffened, her expression a bit uneasy.

    Though her favoritism for her daughter was evident, she still had to maintain appearances. To bluntly state her intentions like this could lead to conflicts with Sun Chan, and the vigers would certainly have something to say about her. But then, she reasoned, Sun Chan had eaten for free at home for seventeen years, so she stood her ground confidently.

    "You came back without a word, are you mute? Your sister is studying hard in the city, I''m making some food for her, got a problem with that? Look at the long face you pull, like I owe you something!"

    Sun Chan replied, "Did I say anything? If she''s tired of studying, she coulde back and join me in farming; farming''s a breeze." Sun Chan had good grades, yet Zhao Xiuxia forced her to drop out after primary school, while Zhao Lijuan repeated studies for three years until she was neen, barely getting into a vocational school��her peers had long since graduated.

    Zhao Xiuxia simmered but waved it off, "Fine, I''m not holding it against you. Hurry up and feed the pig, you do nothing every day! Just loaf around!" After saying this, she went to pick cucumbers in the courtyard. Soon, only one day was left; once the marriage was arranged, she''d be part of the Zhou family, no matter her reluctance.

    Sun Chan had the same idea; once the families were engaged, she''d have a hard time escaping, so she decided she would run away tonight!

    At this moment, Sun Lijuan walked out from inside. She wore a red shirt and white pants, the trendiest attire only city folks could afford. Her hair was not in the long braid customary in the vige, but in a neat ponytail. Although not strikingly beautiful, she appeared quite fair.

 Chapter 5 Retribution in This Life

    <h4>Chapter 5 - 5 Retribution in This Life</h4>

    "Hey sis, you''re back! Haven''t seen you for days, and you''re looking even more radiant!"

    Sun Chan didn''t speak. Her previous life was so miserable. Besides the relentless torment from Zhou Jinzhu, her sister didn''t spare her either, using the money from selling her to enjoy her own good life and constantly speaking ill of her to Zhou Jinzhu, ensuring he would beat Sun Chan every day, fearing that she might live well.

    As for why, Sun Lijuan had personally said, "I excel in everything over you, except I don''t look as good as you. Now you''re ugly and old, I can be at ease. A wild child looking so good? There''s just no justice!"

    After being reborn, Sun Chan naturally had nothing to say to this vicious-hearted sister and directly walked past her.

    But Sun Lijuan stopped her: "Why aren''t you speaking? Dissatisfied with the marriage? You haven''t even asked around, do you know how great the Zhou family''s conditions are? They''ve been hunters for generations and used to be the richest family in several neighboring viges. So many girls want to get married but can''t!" Her mouth curved up, eyes full of excitement. It''s five hundred yuan! Even this wretched girl can be sold for so much.

    Sun Chan nodded, "If they''re so great, why don''t you keep them for yourself?"

    Su Lijuan was stunned, thenughed: "Look at what you''re saying, aren''t I pursuing an education? Could it be you''re still thinking of Ding Hu? Give up, he''s about to get married, we''re genuinely looking out for you."

    "Yes, your immense grace and virtue towards me, I''ll remember them for life." With that, she returned to her room.

    Sun Lijuan frowned, thinking to herself, why is this sister so different from before?

    At dinner, Sun Chan didn''te out to eat, iming she felt unwell, much to Zhao Xiuxia''s delight. She fried eggs, stewed meat, and steamed a pot of white rice, the best meal, not something she''d waste on the worthless girl.

    The two were eating when Sun Lijuan suddenly told her mother, "I still think that wretched girl is acting strange. She only recently broke up with her boyfriend, how can she readily agree to marry Zhou Jinzhu? She''s definitely hiding something."

    "What''s the difference if she agrees or not? As long as she''s engaged, she''s part of the Zhou family, we don''t need to manage her, Zhou family will take care of her themselves. If she dares notply, Zhou Jinzhu will beat her to death!"

    Zhao Xiuxia dismissed it, eating a bite of egg, thinking it was worthwhile to bring back this worthless girl, five hundred yuan enough for them to live luxuriously.

    A young, radiant girl basically given for free to a widower; during festivals, wouldn''t Zhou Jinzhu honor this mother-inw?

    Sun Lijuan looked outside, then said, "Mom, how about you call Zhou Jinzhu over tonight, make it a done deal, then Sun Chan won''t be able to rebel once she''s tainted."

    "What are you doing?" Zhao Xiuxia lightly hit her daughter''s shoulder, whispered, "If this gets known, it won''t be good for your reputation. After all, her registration is still at home."

    "Don''t worry, she won''t dare tell anyone, Zhou Jinzhu will profit naturally and won''t spread the word. You just wait to collect the money. I always felt something was off with this wretched girl. If she escapes, we''ll be left with nothing."

    "Alright, after dinner, I''ll go find Zhou Jinzhu." Zhao Xiuxia agreed.

    "Then you hurry, I''ll keep that wretched girl steady over here."

    They didn''t know that Sun Chan was standing at the door, listening carefully to their conversation. Hearing Sun Lijuan''s scheme, she clenched her teeth in hatred, fists tightly balled up.

    Being your workhorse all these years, and you''re still vicious to me! Determined to drain all my blood dry!

    She slowly retreated, returning to her room.

    Zhao Xiuxia quickly ate her meal then went out to find Zhou Jinzhu.

    Sun Lijuan entered Sun Chan''s room; it''s the side room, no sunlight in the afternoon, very small, andcking electric wires due to Zhao Xiuxia''s reluctance to spend on electricity, so it''s dark.

    "Sun Chan? Are you asleep?"

    No answer, Sun Lijuan was puzzled, searching around for a long time but couldn''t find anyone.

    Sun Lijuan cursed, "This wretched girl! I knew she had other ns!" She didn''t notice earlier, did she sneak away? She hurriedly ran outside.

    Just then, Sun Chan emerged from the shadows, holding a wooden stool, and smashed it onto her shoulder.

    Sun Lijuan, almost at the door, did not expect someone to attack from behind, felt excruciating pain, and groaned as she fell to the ground.

    Sun Chan''s heart raced; she''d never done something this thrilling in two lifetimes. She fumbled in her pocket, finding about twenty yuan, took a few notes, nning to put them back but remembering the suffering from her past life, her resolve bolstered by their plotting earlier, she stuffed all the money into her own pocket, then took her pre-packed bundle, grabbed some cornbreads from the kitchen, picked cucumbers and tomatoes from the courtyard, before fleeing with her belongings.

    Not long after, Zhou Jinzhu followed Zhao Xiuxia into the yard; they didn''t speak much, afraid of neighbors overhearing. Upon reaching Sun Chan''s door, Zhao Xiuxia opened it and shoved Zhou Jinzhu inside.

    Zhou Jinzhu grinned, "Thank you, mother-inw, I''ll always remember your kindness towards me!"

    "No need for politeness, we''re family now, get on with it. But your betrothal gift..." Zhao Xiuxia worried he''d haggle after sleeping with her.

    "Rest assured, our family keeps our promises, don''t I understand your sentiment? There won''t be a shortage."

    Zhao Xiuxia, satisfied, smiled; once he was inside, she closed the door, locking it.

    After tonight, let''s see what you do! Even unwilling, you must marry.

    She went to the next room, listening for anymotion.

    Inside, Zhou Jinzhu hadn''t yet seen clearly when he was tripped and fell, cursing, fortunately holding a shlight, he shone it, seeing a long-haired girl lying there, unable to make out her face.

    Zhou Jinzhu hesitated, what''s going on? Perhaps she''s drunk too?

    Forget it, who cares! She''ll be mine anyway. He carried the girl onto the bed.

    While he was kissing her, Sun Lijuan awoke, immediately screamed upon seeing the shadow over her, "Ah, ah, mom! Help, there''s a hooligan!" she struggled violently, cold sweat dripping.

    Zhou Jinzhu disregarded her, getting handsy, "I''m your partner, we made a deal, both sides now settled."

    "F*** your mom, look closely at who I am!"

    Zhou Jinzhu paused, the voice... next moment, Sun Lijuan''s p came flying.

 Chapter 6: Overnight Escape

    <h4>Chapter 6 - 6: Overnight Escape</h4>

    "I''m Sun Lijuan, let go of me! Filthy animal, do you really think you''re deserving of me?"

    Who is Zhou Jinzhu? All his life, he''s only bullied others. When did he ever let anyone bully him like this? Hearing her words, his anger boiled over, and he started wrestling with her.

    "I don''t care who you are! I came in here to be the groom! Why am I not good enough for you? I haven''t evenined that you''re uglier than Sun Chan! You better behave yourself!"

    Sun Lijuan was filled with rage. Since childhood, she outshone Sun Chan in everything, except appearances.

    Now this lowlife dared to criticize her looks as inferior to Sun Chan!

    Just as she was about to curse, she smelled the reek of alcohol from Zhou Jinzhu''s mouth, almost making her vomit, and she pushed him away in disgust: "Get off me!"

    "Why should I get off?" Zhou Jinzhu, bing more excited, started pulling at her clothes, grabbing hard at the flesh on her waist.

    Su Lijuan cried out in pain, and the two of them were wrestling on the kang bed.

    "Mom! Come here, help me!"

    At first, Zhao Xiuxia didn''t care, spat on the ground, "Pah, acting all virtuous, huh? Once you''ve slept with him, that''s your life, so why not go obediently and make some money for your olddy?"

    But gradually, she noticed something was off. Why does it sound like Juan''er''s voice? She hurriedly went over to open the door, and the two on the kang bed were already tangled in a fight, with Sun Lijuan initially acting cocky, butter bursting into tears.

    "Let go of me! Let go... I''m not Sun Chan!"

    "I don''t care, I''m going to be the groom!"

    Zhao Xiuxia let out a shout, rushing over to yank his cor, dragging him off the kang bed: "Are you crazy? How dare youy a hand on your elder sister-inw!"

    Luckily, Zhou Jinzhu had drunk a few more sses during dinner, feeling a bit muddled,cking enough strength, otherwise it would have been done.

    Sun Lijuan pulled the quilt around her, sobbing loudly, with clothes ripped apart and pain all over her body, utterly miserable.

    Zhao Xiuxia began cursing too, "What''s going on here? Where''s that wretched girl Sun Chan?"

    "She knocked me out and ran off! Mom, you have to stand up for me!" Sun Lijuan was bruised all over, hurting so badly that tears kept flowing, as she clung to her mother, crying. Zhou Jinzhu just chuckled, thinking it''d be nice to get both sisters.

    "Get out!" Zhao Xiuxia furiously, wielding a chair, chased Zhou Jinzhu out.

    Zhou Jinzhu was nonchnt, "Doesn''t matter who, I''d be willing to marry Sun Lijuan."

    "Pah! Look at yourself, my girl got into vocational school, she''ll marry someone from the city in the future, why should you marry her? Get out!" With Zhou Jinzhu''s character, only Sun Chan, a primary school graduate, matched him!

    "You think I''d leave just because you tell me to? The person is gone, who will I get engaged to? The bride price was 500 yuan!" Zhou Jinzhu wasn''t stupid.

    Zhao Xiuxia felt burning rage at the loss of 500 yuan slipping away!

    Sun Lijuan gritted her teeth, "Our engagement continues as usual. I''ll just bring the person back directly when the timees! You may leave now."

    "Will your words hold? Otherwise, maybe I''ll settle for you." Outside, the moonlight shone on Sun Lijuan''s shoulder.

    Zhou Jinzhu couldn''t help but swallow. Sun Lijuan wasn''t as pretty as Sun Chan, but having never done farm work, her skin was fair and tender, not bad.

    Sun Lijuan, enraged, cursed and grabbed a pillow from the bed, hurling it: "Get lost! You filthy scoundrel, I''d rather die than marry you!"

    Zhao Xiuxia tugged him outside: "You still want to marry Sun Chan! Lijuan won''t graduate for a few more years. Doesn''t your father want you to bear a son? You''ve already settled with Sun Chan, and now you''re messing with your elder sister-inw, aren''t you afraid others will talk behind your back? Go home, stop dawdling! I promise you a bride!"

    Being such amotionte at night, vigers had heard it, and when Zhao Xiuxia drove Zhou Jinzhu out, a crowd had gathered outside, craning their necks to watch the spectacle.

    Zhou Jinzhu didn''t care, swaggering out of the Sun Family''s home.

    Zhao Xiuxia wished she could find a hole to crawl into, forcefully pushing the people aside, mming the door shut.

    "What are you looking at? Sun Chan got into a fight with Zhou Jinzhu, it''s nothing, just move along!" In the dead of night, Zhou Jinzhu in Sun Chan''s room was no good business. Eventually, people could say whatever, they''d just pour dirty water on Sun Chan.

    Unfortunately, everyone had heard it was Sun Lijuan''s voice inside but didn''t say anything.

    After driving the people away, Zhao Xiuxia hurried to Sun Lijuan: "Juan''er! Are you alright?"

    Sun Lijuan threw herself into her mother''s arms, sobbing: "Mom! That little wretch knocked me out, stole my money, and nearly got me defiled by that filthy rogue! You have to stand up for me, boo-hoo..." She still wanted to marry into the city, but what if news spread!

    "That wild child, I''ll definitely avenge you! I''ll go call the family to catch her back, after all, there''s only one road in the vige, and it hasn''t been long, she''s probably still in the vige now! How dare that little wretch!" Zhao Xiuxia seethed with anger, wishing she could torment Sun Chan right now!

    She didn''t consider that if it weren''t for her and her daughter scheming against her, Sun Chan wouldn''t have done this.

    "Fine, make sure to catch her, then throw her directly onto Zhou Jinzhu''s bed!" Thinking about the humiliation tonight, Sun Lijuan trembled with anger, eyes red. She also worried, what if the wretch didn''t return, and Zhou Jinzhu insisted on marrying her? She definitely didn''t want to marry that scoundrel.

    Zhao Xiuxia didn''t have the heart tofort her daughter, quickly running to find someone to bring Sun Chan back.

    Meanwhile, Sun Chan was hurrying along the vige road with her bundle, her mind only focused on one thought: to leave this vige.

    Finally, she reached the small stone bridge at the vige entrance and took a deep breath. There, arge boundary stone marked her previous life''s farthest point, never going past, but this life, she arrived here and would continue going forward.

    Sun Chan moved even faster, not knowing whaty ahead. But no matter what, she would bravely face it; she wasn''t afraid to suffer. She wanted freedom, she would never return to this nightmare ce!

    She walked onto an utterly unfamiliar path, following the highway, resting whenever tired, eating dry food to stave off hunger.

    She kept walking for who knows how long, growing sleepy, leaning on a tree, nodding off.

    But no sooner had she sat down, than voices and numerous shlight beams illuminated far behind her.

    Sun Chan''s mind buzzed �� they''re on her trail!

    She couldn''t afford to be tired, swiftly moving ahead, but several pursuers were on bicycles, catching up quickly, one sharp-eyed person spotting her silhouette ahead.

 Chapter 7 I Am Not a Thief

    <h4>Chapter 7 - 7 I Am Not a Thief</h4>

    "Found her! Is that Sun Chan? Over there!"

    Everyone shouted, and Zhao Xiuxia''s heart soared when she heard someone say they spotted her in the front.

    She told her family that Sun Chan knocked out her sister and stole the family''s money before running away, which made it a serious criminal act. Plus, Zhao Xiuxia promised to give a twenty-dor reward if they caught her!

    So everyone was full of energy in their pursuit.

    Sun Chan dashed rapidly along the winding mountain path. She absolutely couldn''t follow the same path as her past life; if she was caught tonight, she would either be beaten to death or vited by Zhou Jinzhu. She would rather die!

    Sun Chan turned a corner and saw a car parked halfway up the road. In the shadows of the roadside grass stood a person, seemingly relieving himself.

    The person tidied up his clothes, returned to the car, and started the engine. Sun Chan nced back at the increasingly closer shlight beams and quickly climbed onto the car.

    The car was too tall, and in her haste, her right ankle hit a protrusion on the car, nearly causing her to fall off. The car was already starting, and she knew it was a matter of life and death; if she fell, she''d be done for. Ignoring the pain, she clung onto the truck bed, strenuously climbed inside, and copsed into the vehicle. She heard a cracking noise from her right foot, and tears welled up due to the intense pain.

    Poor Sun Chan, on her first day back, was this unlucky. Truly tragic.

    The driver had no idea someone had already hidden on top, and drove off just like that.

    When the vigers caught up, the wide road was deserted, with no one in sight.

    The grass on either side wasn''t very tall and couldn''t hide anyone. After searching around to no avail, everyone looked at each other in disbelief. Where was she? Zhao Xiuxia ran over and, seeing no one captured, angrily pped her own thigh.

    "Damn girl, after beating someone and stealing money, she just ran like that, utterlywless!"

    Someone said, "I think I saw a car parked here just now. Did she get on it?"

    "Yeah! I saw it too, it was a military vehicle. Did the girl jump on it to escape?"

    Zhao Xiuxia pped her thigh, nearly crying, "Oh no! What are we going to do!"

    Tomorrow was the day Sun Chan and Zhou Jinzhu were betrothed. If the Sun Family failed to produce her by then, what would Zhou Jinzhu do? Not to mention that this incident happened at night; if it somehow affected her own daughter, Sun Lijuan, ending up as Zhou Jinzhu''s wife, it''d be over!

    Zhao Xiuxia cursed in distress, while Sun Chan, now drowsy, had already fallen asleep inside the car.

    She was terrified and in severe pain from her ankle, barely catching any sleep. She was surrounded byrge crates, unsure of what they contained, but they were quite clean, so she leaned against one. Though it was summer, thetter half of the night was quite cold. She huddled up, enduring until the early dawn when she finally drifted off to sleep.

    At some point, the car suddenly tilted and stopped, jolting Sun Chan awake as she hit a crate.

    Sun Chan looked outside and realized they seemed to have reached a town. On either side of the street were factories and buildings, with many shops lined along the road, although it couldn''tpare to the towns she''d seen on TV.

    Yet to Sun Chan, this was already quite a bustling scene.

    At this moment, someone eximed, "Captain Gu, look at what''s inside the truck!"

    Sun Chan hadn''t fully understood what was happening, then saw a hand reach in, grabbing her swollen ankle. Overwhelmed with fear and the pain, she screamed.

    Both she and Xiao Wu were startled, with Xiao Wu thinking it was a rat, only to realize it was a person!

    Xiao Wu quickly picked up a stone from the ground and pointed it inside, "How dare you steal! Come down immediately!"

    Terrified, Sun Chan shielded her face with her hands and hastily said, "Please don''t kill me! I didn''t mean it!"

    "Don''t scare her!" Gu Junming, calm andposed, restrained Xiao Wu and spoke inside, "Who are you? Come out now." His voice was very pleasant.

    Sun Chan supported herself against the car and stood up.

    Xiao Wu didn''tment, surprised to find it was a female thief.

    Gu Junming approached and held her arm, "How did you get on the car? Come down first."

    Sun Chan timidly nced at Gu Junming. Both paused in surprise, as Gu Junming remembered he''d seen her once in Wang Dan''s courtyard. She was small and slender, with eyes like a startled doe.

    "You''re from Xiangyang Vige?"

    Sun Chan nodded.

    "Stealing military supplies will get you jailed. You should turn yourself in," Xiao Wu said.

    Sun Chan anxiously said, "Please don''t capture me! I didn''t intend to steal; I had no other choice. I didn''t want to be taken back to be a drunkard''s wife. My foster mother sold me, so I had to hop on this car. A lot of people were chasing me, sorry!"

    Her anxious words were a bit scrambled, bing more incoherent as she tried to exin.

    But Gu Junming understood and nodded at Sun Chan.

    "Stop crying,e down first." Gu Junming extended a hand to her.

    With his help, Sun Chan struggled to get off the car, her right foot already swollen like a bun. As soon as she touched the ground, she leaned forward, caught by Gu Junming.

    Sun Chan felt like she''d hit a wall and quickly bowed her head in thanks.

    "It''s okay," Gu Junming said without looking at her, instead surveying the surroundings, "I''ll take you to the nearby hospital for a bandage."

    Xiao Wu nced at him, "Captain, do you believe her?"

    Gu Junming''s expression was calm, "I''ve seen her in the vige. If she was really stealing, she wouldn''t have fallen asleep on the car. She could''ve thrown things down when we weren''t paying attention. We stopped quite a few times along the way. Nothing''s missing, and she''s right here."

    Xiao Wu said nothing.

    Gu Junming looked at Sun Chan again, "Don''t be nervous. Human trafficking is illegal. Nobody can force you to marry someone you don''t like, even if it''s your family."

    Sun Chan lowered her head without speaking, thinking to herself, I know you''re right, but in the vige, I have no say. Zhao Xiuxia always suppresses me, saying she raised me for nothing. What can I do?

    Seeing her silent demeanor, Gu Junming assumed she didn''t understand thew and said again, "When you go back, I can talk to the people in the vige so they won''t make things difficult for you."

    "I can''t go back. They''ll sell me again!" Sun Chan hurriedly said.

    Having gone through such hardship to escape, she couldn''t return again.

    Seeing her resolve, Gu Junming decided not to press further. He nodded, "Let''s get you to a hospital first. If you dy with that foot, you won''t be able to walk."

 Chapter 8 Female Doctor

    <h4>Chapter 8 - 8 Female Doctor</h4>

    Sun Chan hastily refused, "You''ve already helped me by rescuing me, I can go on my own." She only had a little money, taken from Sun Lijuan, with no money to see a doctor for her foot.

    In her past life, she had been beaten more severely, and just endured it.

    Sun Chan refused a few times to no avail. Gu Junming was insistent, "I''m a soldier, how can I leave an injured civilian here?" He then turned to Xiao Wu and said, "You drive back, I''ll take her to have her foot looked at."

    "Okay." Xiao Wu suddenly chuckled softly, "The military hospital is just ahead, Doctor Bai works there, she''ll be pleased to see you."

    Gu Junming slightly frowned, "What nonsense? Do you think this is your own turf to casually gossip about a military doctor? Are you not afraid of disciplinary action?"

    Xiao Wu quickly stopped joking, gave a military salute, and drove off.

    Sun Chan was moved; the person Wang Dan disliked actually had a military doctor interested in him. Truly, everyone has different tastes.

    At this moment, Gu Junming helped Sun Chan to her feet, "Let me assist you, let''s walk slowly."

    Sun Chan was very embarrassed, doing her best to walk on her own, "Thank you ... Gu, Captain Gu. You are really good people."

    "It''s nothing." Gu Junming checked his wristwatch, "I think we should eat first, it''s not office hours for the doctor yet, you must be starving, right?"

    "No need, I have some provisions. I can just eat this." She went to take the bundle from her hand, revealing the dry food inside.

    Gu Junming nced at what she carried, frowning slightly. It turned out to be a corn bun, already so hard it couldn''t be broken. Swallowing it would certainly scratch the throat, her life must be tough.

    "Save this forter,e with me."

    She could only hobble along, being guided by him into a small restaurant across from the hospital.

    There weren''t many people inside, Gu Junming bought oil cakes and tofu pudding, along with a te of pickles, and ced them in front of her.

    "Eat up, and we''ll go see the doctor after."

    Sun Chan hadn''t eaten dinner the previous night. Now seeing the golden, fried oil cakes, her stomach burned with hunger.

    She swallowed her saliva and cautiously started eating. This was a delicacy she never tasted in her past life. At Zhou Family, she did the hardest work but could only eat cornmeal and potatoes to stay full, and even then sometimes couldn''t get enough to eat, let alone have oil cakes.

    Gu Junming nced at her; the girl''s eyes were red, as if she had cried.

    But he didn''t ask, not wanting to hurt the girl''s self-esteem.

    "Have you thought about what you might do once you get to the city?"

    "Mm, I was hoping to rely on ... a friend, she''s working in the city." She didn''t mention Wang Dan''s name, feeling that it might be awkward since she was someone who rejected him.

    Gu Junming nodded. Nowadays, more people were migrating to the city for work, but this girlcked academic qualifications, looked frail, what could she possibly do? He started considering if he knew anyone who could help.

    Sun Chan, sitting across from him, felt ufortable. She had never been alone with a man before, nor was she good at small talk. Gu Junming was also not a talkative person. They ate in silence. Gu Junming nced at Sun Chan; despite being so weak, she dared to escape on her own with nothing, firm and resolute.

    By now more people wereing in for breakfast, Gu Junming knew it was about time. Seeing Sun Chan put down her chopsticks, he asked, "Are you full? I''ll take you to get your foot checked."

    Sun Chan nodded, and Gu Junming helped her up.

    At this moment, the small restaurant''s door opened, a woman in military uniform walked in. Upon seeing Gu Junming, she greeted him excitedly and briskly walked over.

    "Junming! Is it really you? Did youe to see me?"

    This woman had fine eyebrows and big eyes, fair skin, and exuded an air of youthful spirit. Though in her mid-twenties, she still looked very youthful as if she were eighteen or neen, with a bit of childishness, like a girl who had been spoiled.

    Shepletely ignored Sun Chan beside him and quickly approached.

    Gu Junming''s tone was very polite, "I came to the city to transport some items, and I''ll be going back shortly. This is a fellow viger I met on the road, her ankle is sprained, I thought to treat it here."

    Bai Fannughed lightly, "That''s not a big deal, I''ll just find a specialist to take a look at her."

    "Haven''t you had breakfast yet?"

    "No! I saw you through the window and wanted to confirm. You think my grandpa lets me skip meals toe out?"

    Gu Junming smiled, "Yes, Old Master Bai has always been indulgent with you."

    Mentioning Old Master Bai made Gu Junming''s expression slightly darken.

    Bai Fann didn''t notice his reaction and said with a grin, "Of course, I''m his only granddaughter, let''s go."

    Gu Junming and Bai Fann helped Sun Chan, one on each side, to walk out.

    Along the way, Bai Fann continuously chatted with Gu Junming, whose responses were very concise, courteous yet distant.

    Upon reaching the hospital, he went to register.

    Bai Fann said, "No need, I can just take her in directly."

    "We can''t do that, since we''re in military uniforms, we must follow procedures, no favoritism." He said as he walked swiftly to line up.

    Bai Fann bit her lip watching his back, feeling somewhat displeased with his attitude.

    She had already made her interest evident, yet why was he still so distant? She heard he even returned to the vige recently for a matchmaking. Prefer a vige girl over me? Wasn''t this a p in the face? Luckily, she heard the match didn''t seed, otherwise, it would be infuriating.

    Bai Fann looked back at Sun Chan. Her hair was a bit messy, bangs covering half her face. Her clothes were shabby and dirty, the shoes almost worn out. She quickly turned her head away in distaste.

    However, thinking about it, if it weren''t for this country bumpkin, she wouldn''t even have a chance to interact with Gu Junming, so she begrudgingly asked a few questions.

    Sun Chan knew she wasn''t fond of her, so she kept her responses brief.

    The two of them took her to see an orthopedic doctor. Her foot was swollen so badly, barely touching it made her wince, but she didn''t react much, bearing the pain.

    Gu Junming nced at her, thinking if it were someone else, they might have cried already. She was small in stature but very strong-willed.

    The doctor inspected her foot and said she needed to stay in the hospital for a few days. Otherwise, she might end up limping for life.

    Hearing this, Sun Chan almost fainted; she couldn''t afford a hospital stay.

    But Gu Junming said, "Don''t worry, I''ll help you all the way. You wouldn''t want to be a cripple for life, right?"

    Sun Chan was both touched and embarrassed, "Captain Gu, you''re truly a great person. I''ll make sure to earn money soon to repay you."

    Gu Junming nodded and went to handle the paperwork.

    Only Bai Fann and Sun Chan were left sitting in the corridor.

    Bai Fann looked at Sun Chan, "How did you meet

 Chapter 9 Hospitalization

    <h4>Chapter 9 - 9 Hospitalization</h4>

    "I just got to know him recently. Thanks for his help." Sun Chan didn''t want to borate.

    Upon hearing this, Bai Fann thought that vige women are usually very stubborn. When they see a man being nice to them, they can''t wait to offer themselves and cling to him. Do they think he will marry a vige woman so she can have a chance too? She must cut off this idea.

    Bai Fann said to Sun Chan, "Captain Gu is a responsible person who talks nicely with everyone. Thest time he went back to the vige for matchmaking was only because he couldn''t refuse the matchmaker. But he is not likely to marry a vige woman. His family... he is very prestigious."

    Sun Chan nodded, "Is that so." At this moment, her mind was upied with thoughts of how to earn money to repay Captain Gu, and she barely noticed Bai Fann''s implications.

    Bai Fann frowned slightly, wondering if this woman was truly naive or pretending.

    Gu Junming paid the fees and returned, helping Sun Chan arrange a ward and even leaving some money for Sun Chan.

    Sun Chan hurriedly declined, "You''ve been good enough to me; I can''t take more of your money." The favor owed was already too much, and she was certainly anxious.

    Seeing her strong reaction, Gu Junming didn''t insist further, "Then take good care of your injuries, andter find your friend."

    "Thank you, Captain Gu. Can you give me the receipt for the fees you paid? I''ll definitely repay you when I earn some money."

    Gu Junming gave her a higher regard because of this gesture. Although he hadn''t expected her to repay him, he was impressed that she was a small but decisive girl and still handed the receipt to Sun Chan, asking Bai Fann to escort her to the ward.

    Bai Fann felt this vige girl was trying to tter Gu Junming. Is it really that easy to make money in the city? This woman didn''t seem cultured, and was thin as a rake. It''s impossible for her to repay that money. She must be exploiting Gu Junmin''s sympathy. How shameless, even retreating tactically.

    "Go to the ward yourself; I have no time." Bai Fann said, then left.

    Sun Chan wasn''t expecting her to escort her. Seeing her nasty attitude, Sun Chan merely nodded and turned away, as nobody owed her anything.

    Bai Fann caught up with Gu Junming, taking his arm with a smile, "Brother Ming, you haven''t visited for a while. Isn''t it time to check on my house? My grandpa is always asking about you. I''m definitely bringing you home for dinner; otherwise, he''ll me you!"

    Gu Junming avoided her hand, seriously saying, "I''m on duty this time and have already spent considerable time helping this countrywoman, so it''s impossible to eat with your grandfather. He was in the military too, he''ll understand. I''ll visit him during my holiday. Also, you''re in the military; you can''t keep disregarding discipline by grabbing people publicly."

    Bai Fann''s face alternated between pale and flushed, feeling a wave of sadness but quickly regaining her smile.

    "Sure,rade Gu Junming, it''s just that I''m too happy to see you, so I lost myposure a bit. I''ll correct myself. Please supervise and guide me, Captain Gu."

    Gu Junming said to her, "I''m leaving now. Please take care of this girl for me; she''s having a tough time alone in the city."

    "Got it, don''t worry, she''s quite nice."

    He nodded and strode off, showing no sign of attachment.

    Bai Fann bit her lip, revealing a look of disappointment. She''d liked him since her teen years, but he''d always maintained an inscrutable distance from her.

    After Gu Junming left, Bai Fann returned to the ward and saw Sun Chan, who was staring nkly while sitting on a hospital bed. "Do you need anything from me?"

    "No, thank you, doctor." Sun Chan smiled at her.

    Bai Fann curled her lips and turned away, leaving the ward. If you don''t need anything, that''s your issue; I asked you, after all.

    Sun Chan''s foot was wrapped like a zongzi, making it very inconvenient to walk. Butpared to others in the ward, she was much luckier. The ward housed four people, including someone with a broken leg, another with a fractured arm wrapped in gauze, and thest was a pitiful uncle with multiple broken bones; his whole body wrapped in bandages, making movement extremely difficult.

    It''s said he was working at a quarry and got buried under rocks, barely surviving.

    Not long after, the families came to visit, including several grandkids visiting the one in the middle, making the ward very noisy. But the uncle opposite had no visitors.

    Sun Chan leaned on her bed, gazing at the blue sky outside. It''s rare for her in both lives to be this leisurely, yet her heart felt restless as she didn''t have much money; how could she live idly like this?

    While she was dazing off, she suddenly heard someone say, "Young girl, can you help me?"

    Looking up, she saw a sincere-looking woman in her thirties, dressed ordinarily.

    Sun Chan hurriedly got up, "What is it you need?"

    The woman replied, "I need to wipe Old Ma''s body, but I strained my tendons yesterday, so it''s a bit strenuous. Could you help me?" She nced at the man with multiple fractures.

    Sun Chan nodded and tiptoed over. Together they turned over the uncle, and Sun Chan identally bumped his arm during the process, frightening her into apologizing.

    The uncle simply shook his head, saying nothing.

    "Thank you, young girl."

    "No problem," Sun Chan smiled.

    The woman wiped his body with a damp cloth and asked how he was doing.

    The man''s voice was weary, "I''m hungry."

    The woman chuckled, "Don''t worry, I''ll wipe you down first, then get you some food. How about baozi for breakfast?"

    The man nodded, "I want to eat blood sausage at noon."

    "That''s not possible; your daily meal allowance is only four yuan. The cafeteria food is so expensive; if you eat blood sausage, you''ll have to skip dinner. Let''s have meat stir-fried with celery for lunch."

    The man sighed and said no more. The woman quickly wiped his chest with soap, rinsing it off and finished the work.

    Lacking strength in her hands, she asionally needed Sun Chan''s help to move the man''s body.

    When the woman went out to dump the water, the man needed to use a bedpan, so she found a pot under the bed, pulled up the screen beside the bed, handed it to him, and left.

    Sun Chan also went outside to escape the awkwardness.

    The woman smiled at her, "Thanks for your help earlier."

    "Is he your husband?" Sun Chan couldn''t help but ask.

    "No, I''m a hospital caregiver. He''s a widower with no family, so I''m hired by the quarry owner to take care of Old Ma for five yuan a day." The woman''s response was straightforward.

    Sun Chan then understood why there wasn''t much intimatemunication between them. It turns out she was a caregiver assisting with personal care.

 Chapter 10: Scheming

    <h4>Chapter 10 - 10: Scheming</h4>

    "Auntie, is the work of a caretaker tiring?" Sun Chan asked.

    "Yes, it''s quite tiring and also pretty awkward," she said andughed, "Actually, in our line of work, taking care of people doesn''t differentiate between men and women. At first, I felt quite awkward, serving people with their bathroom needs and wiping them. My husband wasn''t happy about it either, but there are so many mouths to feed at home, and his little earnings weren''t enough. Now we''re used to it. Why, do you also want to do it?"

    Sun Chan hesitated for a moment and then said, "I came to the city to seek a friend. I need to talk to her first."

    "Rest for a couple of days, and wait until your foot gets better. If you really want to do it, I can introduce you. Nowadays, many city folks are rich; when the elders at home get sick, they don''t want to personally take care of them. We can earn a bit of money too."

    Sun Chan nodded, thinking it would be nice to have a job, but no matter what, she had to let Wang Dan know she was safe. However, with her leg in its current state, it was quite troublesome.

    At that moment, Bai Fann was in the office making a phone call, leaning against the table, ying with the phone cord, her tone slightly coquettish.

    "Grandpa, you talk to Gu Junming yourself. He keeps refusing me, and I''m too embarrassed to ask him out again."

    Bai Fann''s grandfather, Bai Chuan, was sitting on the sofa holding the phone, his brow furrowed in displeasure.

    "The Bai Family and the Gu Family have always had good rtions. Don''t worry about this matter, I''ll make sure you see him." Bai Chuan was very unhappy. Gu Junming was too disrespectful, always refusing my granddaughter even though she is in such good condition. Clearly, he doesn''t take me seriously!

    Bai Fannughed, "I understand, I''m always assured when you''re handling things, Grandpa."

    "I''ll call him; he wouldn''t dare not toe." Bai Chuan''s tone was quite assertive and then added, "But Lan''er, do you really insist on being with him? His family is veryplicated, can you ept that?" This granddaughter was pampered by him since childhood, what does she know aboutpromise and dealing with people?

    "Don''t worry, Grandpa, I''ll try my best!" Bai Fann was very confident.

    "Alright then, since you''ve said this, I''ll agree to help you find a way."

    "Thank you, Grandpa!" Only then did Bai Fann feel at ease to hang up the phone.

    Bai Chuan didn''t actually call Gu Junming, but Gu''s father, Gu Zishan. Though being in a high position now, Gu still remained respectful towards Bai Chuan.

    He was sitting initially but instantly stood up: "Is it Old Master Bai?"

    "It''s rare that you still remember me, huh?"

    "How can you say that, I''ll always remember your grace for giving me a second chance."

    Bai Chuan shared a few pleasantries with him before getting to the point: "Let''s not talk as if we are strangers, I want your son toe over for a meal at our ce, but he has been hesitant and unwilling, what do you say, Old Gu? Let hime for a visit."

    Gu Zishan hesitated for a moment and replied with a bitter smile, "You know our family situation; he stopped listening to me long ago, it''s just not possible for him toe. How about this, it''s his grandfather''s birthday at the end of this month, he will definitelye then."

    "Well... alright then. I''ll let Lan''ere over then."

    In any case, a meeting is a meeting, Bai Chuan settled for the next best option, exchanged a few more pleasantries, and then hung up the phone.

    Bai Chuan''s hand tapped on the desk, furrowing his brow slightly. For many years now, the rtionship between Gu Zishan and his son has shown no improvement. Can Gu Junming''s future be assured like this? If it weren''t for his granddaughter''s persistence, Bai Chuan wouldn''t have agreed to her involvement with Gu Junming.

    Besides, the incident back then... he''ll forever remember the hatred in the eyes of that child in his teens.

    For years, he had been subtly or overtly giving hints to his former subordinates to suppress Gu Junming, under the guise of ''training,'' though he knew the true intent.

    That''s why despite being twenty-five, Gu Junming was still just a smallpanymander. But he knows that Gu Junming applied to be posted in the toughest location, intending to earn promotions throughbat merits. It was getting harder to hold him down. Bai Chuan had a premonition that once Gu Junming rose up, his peaceful days would be numbered.

    This meeting with Gu Junming was also partly to gauge the situation, as the Bai Family could only consider marriage alliances with sensible people.

    Gu Zishan called Gu Junming''s camp, mentioned his grandfather''s birthday, and the need to meet. Gu Junming only gave a short acknowledgment.

    "I heard you have a mission next month, and it''s often dangerous, can you... please be very careful." He knew that suggesting not to go would inevitably be rejected by Gu Junming, so he let it go.

    Gu Junming said, "Thank you for your concern, sir. Do you have any other matters?"

    "About you and Bai Fann..."

    "We''re not suitable for each other. I will return for my grandfather''s birthday, but I''m in a hurry to leave and probably can''t stay long. Also, my marriage is something my parents will decide for me, so there''s no need for you to worry, sir."

    Gu Zishan mmed his fist on the table, causing the tea to ssh: "Don''t you realize whose son you are? How many years have gone by, and you still remain so stubborn!"

    Gu Junming chuckled coldly, "You owe them a lifetime. You refuse to face it and dare not take responsibility, but it''s alright, I''ll repay them for you. Do you have any other matters, sir? If not, I need to return to training." He hung up the phone and walked out with determined strides.

    Gu Zishan copsed onto the sofa, rubbing his forehead, his face full of frustration and grief.

    Sun Chan stayed in the hospital for two more days and felt that her foot had improved a lot. During these days, she helped Aunt Wang look after Brother Ma. Tasks like turning him over, which required physical effort, were shouldered by Sun Chan since Aunt Wang''s hand hadn''t healed yet.

    Aunt Wang felt much relieved and, feeling embarrassed to give her money, expressed her gratitude by giving her a few loaves of bread: "These are health supplements given to my husband at the mine, hope you don''t mind."

    "How could I possibly refuse?"

    The loaf had a slightly dull color, clearly made from inferior flour, but the filling was meat. Eating one could fill a whole day''s meal without needing any side dishes, which made Sun Chan very grateful.

    "Thank you so much."

    Aunt Wang chuckled, "It''s nothing. Eat as much as you like! I owe you a big favor after all."

    With the bread, Sun Chan didn''t need to buy food. In the ward, some canned food containers were left behind after being eaten, which she cleaned and used for herself. Early in the morning, she''d fill up a bottle with water, and together with the bread, it would suffice for the entire day.

    However, just staying here wasn''t feasible; she still wanted to earn money to repay Gu Lianzhang as soon as possible.

    One morning, after a doctor examined her, the redness and swelling subsided, allowing her to walk a bit.

    Sun Chan was delighted, and her first task was to go to the department store to find Wang Dan. The store was situated in the city''s most central area and was considered quite luxurious. Therefore, she found it after just a few inquiries.

    The mall had three floors, with many peopleing and going. It was Sun Chan''s first time here, so she looked around curiously.

 Chapter 11 Wang Dan is Very Straightforward

    <h4>Chapter 11 - 11 Wang Dan is Very Straightforward</h4>

    The young peopleing in and out of the mall were all dressed in fashionable clothes, while she wore a coarse cloth shirt, the knees of her pants were bulging, and her shoes were worn out to the extreme. She felt a bit sad; having lived through two lifetimes and dying in the 21st century, she had never worn a single good piece of clothing.

    Her bum of a husband, however, wore shiny and smooth clothes. Not to mention her stepmother and sister who sold her off to make money, they were one of the wealthiest in the entire vige. All she could do was envy.

    Sun Chan wanted to earn money, so she could also wear beautiful clothes.

    Upon entering the main gate, she saw counters selling Snow Cream, shampoo, soap, floral water, mirrors, and even perfume. Sun Chan''s eyes looked at these things, feeling they were very novel.

    The salesperson saw Sun Chan''s attire and just curled their lips, ignoring her.

    Wang Dan''s counter selling scarves was on the second floor. Upon climbing the stairs, you could immediately see rows of scarves hanging behind the counter. Red, green, and yellow ones. Below were some more mature colors for middle-aged and older people, purple-red, brown, and floral scarves fondly worn by the vige women.

    Quite a few young girls were looking at them, but most of them were just looking. A single scarf cost at least seven or eight yuan, usually a few days'' wages for someone with a formal job, how could ordinary people afford that?

    As she walked up the stairs, she saw Wang Dan talking to a young man.

    Wang Dan was wearing a white blouse and a ck skirt, with a yellow scarf tied around her neck. With thick double eyelids and a slightly plump figure, she was considered a fortuitous symbol in those days, the type of daughter-inw beloved by mothers-inw.

    The young man in front of Wang Dan was well-dressed, his eyes fixed on her: "Dandan, I''lle to your home to propose on Saturday."

    Sun Chan was taken aback, was Wang Dan engaged?

    Wang Dan brushed her hair, smiling: "You don''t even have a formal job now, how could my parents let me marry you?"

    The young man was a bit anxious: "Dandan! My family has even prepared a marriage house. You can''t just..."

    Wang Dan pushed him: "Stop it, all my girlfriends who got married have at least a family with a building." She finished speaking and held up two fingers to him: "Two conditions, a dowry of 880 yuan, and a t in a building, otherwise let''s not discuss it."

    The young man stamped his feet in anger: "Don''t you have any feelings at all?"

    Wang Danughed: "My mom already said about the dowry, we won''t take a penny. I''m the only child, we can''t sell a daughter to fill the gap like other families, this money is for us to live on. You don''t have a job, so you''re just freeloading? It''s good to use this money to do some small business. As for the t, I know your family can afford it, that''s why I''m asking. If your family doesn''t value me and buys a single-floor house instead of a t before we''re married, I''d be quite upset. Are you hiding your feelings from me? If so, then forget about it."

    The young man''s tone softened: "I see, but howe you always bring this up before our wedding, can our feelings be measured in money? It hurts!"

    "Talking about feelings costs more than money." Wang Dan smiled at him: "I gave you the conditions, I have a formal job and don''t need money, but if you want to do business and your parents don''t want to chip in, do you expect my family to support you? I''m doing this for your own good, aren''t you always saying how your mom meddles? If you can make money, they won''t be able to interfere with our life."

    The young manughed: "I get it, wife, you''re the best. I''ll talk to my parents when I get back!"

    Sun Chan only went up after a while, Wang Dan wasbing her bangs while looking in the mirror. Seeing here, she quickly waved: "You''re here!"

    "Yeah, I had a little something to do, so I''m here to find you now."

    Wang Dan grabbed Sun Chan''s hand and brought her into the counter, whispering: "I''ve heard! You''ve run away from the Sun Family, you are so brave."

    "How''s the vige?"

    "Oh, your mother is about to go crazy! It''s a big mess!"

    She told Sun Chan that the day after she ran, Zhou Jinzhu''s parents came making a fuss, smashing Zhao Xiuxia''s house to pieces, stirring the whole vige. Zhou Jinzhu sat on the kang and refused to leave, demanding Zhao Xiuxia bring her back.

    "If you don''t get Sun Chan back, I''ll sleep with Sun Lijuan!"

    That almost made Zhao Xiuxia faint from anger. She was unreasonable, but not a match for that rogue, and she almost got beaten by this convenient son-inw.

    Sun Chan bit her lip: "She brought it upon herself."

    Zhao Xiuxia knew early on that person was scum, forcing her to marry for money, and now she''s reaping what she sowed!

    Wang Dan sneered: "Zhao Xiuxia is clever enough to send Sun Lijuan back to school. So now it''s only Zhao Xiuxia bringing her maternal rtives to argue with them, then stating that if they don''t find you and settle the marriage with the Zhou Family within a month, they''ll have topensate the Zhou Family for their loss. You better be careful if Zhao Xiuxia sees you, you''ll be done for."

    Sun Chan smiled: "This is the new society, and it''s in the city, I''ve never heard of anyone daring toe directly to kidnap and sell people. I won''t go back!"

    Wang Dan looked at Sun Chan curiously: "I realized you''ve really changed!"

    "Yes, people have to change. I don''t want to be stuck in the countryside all my life, being the wife of a scumbag."

    "What if your adoptive mother uses filial piety as an excuse and uses you of being ungrateful?"

    Sun Chan said: "I''ve been doing hardbor for years in the Sun Family, done everything I should. Just because she raised me and kept me alive, it doesn''t mean I should be a beast of burden and sacrifice my whole life to repay her, does it?"

    She had already thought it through, she would earn money in the city, and then give Zhao Xiuxia some pension money in the future, but have nothing more to do with her. As for Sun Lijuan, she had no obligation to support her.

    "d you''ve figured it out!" Wang Danughed: "People should be a little selfish. If you always consider others, people won''t thank you, they''ll instead think you''re a pushover they can bully."

    Sun Chan thought about it, wasn''t that the truth?

    "Oh, by the way!" Wang Dan grabbed Sun Chan: "Your ex is engaged to Liu Mei. The scene was quite lively, but the banquet and everything was all paid by the Liu Family. From now on, Ding Hu is part of the Liu Family."

    "Is that so, great. It''s nice to have apanion in life." Sun Chan smiled. It was much the same in her previous life when they got engaged just a few days before she married Zhou Jinzhu.

    Wang Dan curled her lips: "At the wedding, Ding Hu was like a servant, circling around the Liu Family. A man like that with no heart, you shouldn''t think about him anymore. In the end, he only cares about the Liu Family''s money, or why else would he be with such an ugly shrew."

 Chapter 12: Misunderstood

    <h4>Chapter 12 - 12: Misunderstood</h4>

    Sun Chan smiled faintly: "He chose his own path. As long as he doesn''t regret it, that''s fine. He and I aren''t suited for each other. Even without Liu Mei, we would have broken up."

    That kind of beast, he was so excessive in his past life, I''ve already seen through him. In this life, of course, I need to keep my distance.

    Wang Dan was relieved to see her react so calmly.

    When talking about how she escaped, Sun Chan didn''t hide anything and told the truth. Wang Dan lifted her pant leg and looked at her ankle with distress.

    "It must have been really hard for you. It must have hurt a lot, right?"

    "It''s nothing." Sun Chan also mentioned the situation with Gu Junming: "Actually, you know the person who saved me."

    Wang Danughed: "What a coincidence! The idea of meeting him was my rtive''s, really. I already had someone, but they didn''t agree. But seeing the matter with Gu Junming fall through, they finally gave in."

    Sun Chan thought of the young man she just saw and nodded with a smile; it seemed Wang Dan was really getting married.

    Wang Dan suddenlyughed: "I see you two have such a fate, why not get together. I actually think Gu Junming is nice, just that his family burden is too heavy to handle."

    "What kind of joke are you making?" Sun Chan thought of Gu Junming''s appearance, feeling inexplicably flustered, and her face turned red as she hit Wang Dan''s arm: "I''m telling you my worries, and you''re making fun of me? Besides, there''s a doctor who likes him. How could he ever like me? Being alive now is hard enough for me, anything else I haven''t even considered."

    Gu Lianzhang is a good person, I''m not worthy of him.

    Wang Dan was a bit surprised: "Ah, his partner is a doctor? That''s great, earns well and can help him. I couldn''t do it, I''m too selfish. Even if he''s a good person, if the benefits after marriage are less than the disadvantages, I can''t marry."

    Sun Chan chatted with her for a while longer. When talking about how to stay in the city, she started worrying again.

    Wang Dan said: "You can stay at my ce for now. They''re hiring cleaners in our building, but unfortunately, the probation month pays only fifty bucks, without meals."

    Sun Chan hesitated, that sry was really too low. The ce to stay also had no way to cook meals, so she''d have to eat outside. Calcting it, besides food and some basic livingmodities, she wouldn''t be able to save even ten bucks. Gu Junming had spent money to have her hospitalized, treated, and bandaged, costing about forty to fifty bucks, wouldn''t it take half a year to pay back?

    Thinking of this made her stressed out.

    Wang Dan said: "There''s not much good work here either. I suggest you look for other jobs first. If nothing works out,e back to sweep. Find a horse while riding a donkey."

    Gratefully, Sun Chan held Wang Dan''s hand: "I''m really bothering you."

    Wang Danughed: "No worries! We''re from the same vige, we should look after each other."

    She led Sun Chan to a window and pointed to the row of bungalows behind the mall: "I live in the first house on the left. Come over after you''re discharged tomorrow, I get off work early."

    "This is already great, I don''t know how to thank you." Sun Chan, reborn into this life, had encountered really harsh people but also selflessly helpful people, which made her feel warm.

    Wang Danughed: "I won''t talk much with you, if my boss sees, I''ll get my pay docked."

    Sun Chan felt grateful, her eyes reddening: "I''ll pay you back once I''m capable."

    "Alright! When I get married, give me a big red envelope." Wang Danughed heartily.

    Sun Chan bid her farewell and walked back.

    With a ce to live, the next concern was finding work. She''s not afraid of hard work, as long as she can earn money, she''s willing to put in the effort. Sun Chan is now inclined towards bing a caregiver. After all, the pay there is somewhat higher.

    She returned to the hospital room and before she even opened the door, she heard arguing. It was a man and a woman�� the woman''s voice was Bai Fann''s. She was having an intense argument with a man inside.

    Sun Chan hadn''t even had time to figure out what was happening when the door got mmed open. Bai Fann stormed out, her face flushed red, fists clenched, clearly quite angry. In her haste, she almost stepped on Sun Chan''s foot.

    Sun Chan hurriedly stepped back, making way for her.

    Bai Fann froze for a moment upon seeing Sun Chan, then gritted her teeth and said: "Are you eavesdropping on us?" A vige girl daring to watch me make a fool of myself?

    Sun Chan quickly said: "I''m not, I just got back. I wasn''t eavesdropping. I don''t know anything!"

    "Hmph! How could it be such a coincidence? Stop pretending to be innocent!" Bai Fann sneered coldly, refusing to believe it. She already thought Sun Chan was a schemer, and if Gu Junming knew about her argument with this person, it certainly wouldn''t leave a good impression!

    A patient''s family member quickly followed, grabbing Bai Fann to hit her, but fortunately others held him back.

    Someone said: "Don''t fight; this is the military hospital, do you want to get arrested?"

    "What kind of doctor are you? I ask you, did you even look at the medicine you prescribed for my mom? Is this for an olddy to eat? Do you think we can''t read? The words clearly say it''s for miscarriage prevention and pregnancy reactions! How can you be so irresponsible and still be a doctor?" This person was someone Sun Chan recognized, the son of thedy with the broken arm. Quite filial.

    The elderlydy came over to persuade her son: "Forget it, it''s not a big deal, she did rewrite the prescription, so let''s leave it at that."

    "How can we just let it go! This woman is usually so domineering and rude. Just asking about the condition is like we owe her money, and now she has the nerve to be so arrogant after making a mistake? No manners!"

    Bai Fann was very frustrated. Grandpa had clearly promised her to have Gu Junming over for dinner, but instead it turned into visiting his grandpa at the end of the month. Since she and Gu Junming hadn''t confirmed their rtionship, what position would she go as? It was such an embarrassing situation. Pushing it isn''t a deal; even after marriage, people would gossip that she isn''t worthy.

    And she had called Gu Junming several times, only to hear he was out training, couldn''t be reached, which made it even more annoying.

    As a result, she was a bit absent-minded while prescribing for patients, and made a mistake. Now the family was here to call her out. Bai Fann regretted it a bit, but more than that, she felt this patient was pretentious, so many issues for someone from the countryside.

    "Didn''t you not take the medicine? Just return it and that''s it. Why isn''t this over yet?" she said impatiently.

    "What do you mean? I''m definitely going to file aint against you!"

    "Do as you please. Nothing actually happened, so the higher-ups won''t handle me!"

    The man pointed at Bai Fann: "Watch out, next time if you''re so careless, I won''t be polite!" With that, he stormed off angrily, and the others dispersed as well.

 Chapter 13 Caregiver

    <h4>Chapter 13 - 13 Caregiver</h4>

    Bai Fann bit her lip and gave Sun Chan a fierce re before striding away.

    Sun Chan felt really unlucky, caught in this unwarranted disaster. However, she knew that no matter how much she exined, Bai Fann wouldn''t believe that she hadn''t been eavesdropping. She could only wait for Bai Fann to be in a better mood before addressing it.

    Just then, Aunt Wang arrived, carrying a bag of dumplings. She smiled at Sun Chan and said, "Where did you go early this morning?"

    "I went to check on someone in our vige. Aunt, about the nursing job you mentionedst time..."

    "What, have you decided to do it?"

    Sun Chan nodded, "I''m just worried I won''t do well."

    "Howe? I''ve seen how earnest you are; it''s just physical work, you''ll be fine. As it happens, there''s a child who had an appendectomy, and his parents are out of town temporarily, so they can''t rush back. You need to care for him for a few days, just head over in a bit. It''s three yuan a day. How about it?"

    Sun Chan was thrilled, "Sure, I can do it!"

    She never thought she''dnd a job so directly. It was quite exciting for her.

    Aunt Wang actually wanted to keep the job for herself, as taking care of a child was rtively easy. However, considering her current job was a long-term one and that man was still bedridden with no clear recovery time, her ie was stable. But this child''s condition was short-term. Once done, she''d have to find a new job, so she generously offered it to Sun Chan.

    Sun Chan was led by Aunt Wang to a ward downstairs where a child, around seven or eight years old, was still asleep.

    Aunt Wang whispered to her, "Just make sure to clean him up a bit. He hasn''t passed gas yet, which means farting! Wait until he does before giving him water or food, and don''t let him walk around. Oh, and make sure no unfamiliar people take him away. Do your best, and ask me if you''re unsure about anything."

    "Thank you so much, Aunt!" Sun Chan said gratefully, seeing Aunt Wang off and then returning to look at the child.

    She had just sat down when the child opened his eyes, "Sister, I want some water."

    Sun Chan replied, "You can''t have water right now, hold on a little longer."

    "But I''m really thirsty," the child said, looking at Sun Chan with a forlorn expression.

    Sun Chan thought for a moment and then fetched a cotton swab, wet it, and dabbed it on his lips. "Hang in there, sister will stay with you."

    The child nodded and held onto Sun Chan''s hand, "I''m scared."

    "I''m right here with you, don''t worry," Sun Chan gently stroked his hair. Seeing this child made her think of Liangliang, the child given up for adoption, sharing the same fate as hers. She wondered what Zhou Jinzhu would do to him after her death. Would he find him a good stepmother or just abandon him?

    Thinking of Liangliang, Sun Chan was particrly gentle with this child.

    In just an afternoon, the two became very good friends.

    Bai Fann was reported by a patient''s family for prescribing the wrong medicine.

    The hospital leadership criticized her, but since she came from a backgrounded family, her work, though not remarkable, hadn''t had any major mishaps. So, they didn''t dwell on it, merely telling her to be more careful in the future.

    Bai Fann verbally agreed but didn''t take it seriously.

    Walking down the corridor, ready to leave work, she happened to see Sun Chaning out with a basin of water and greeted Bai Fann.

    "Hello, Doctor Bai."

    Bai Fann, with her hands in herb coat, saw Sun Chan''s friendly demeanor, which soothed her anger. She slightly lifted her chin and asked, "What are you doing here?"

    "I''m working as a caregiver, helping to take care of a child."

    Bai Fann gave her a once-over, "Can you really take care of someone? Like administering medicines, you need to be literate for that."

    "I can read." In her previous life, Sun Chan finished elementary school, and even farming and selling pesticides required recognizing many characters. Moreover, Zhao Jinzhu liked watching TV, and there were always captions. Over time, she learned a lot.

    Bai Fann frowned slightly and then waved her hand, "Well, do your job well then! Keep yourself upied instead of eavesdropping on others." With that, she left.

    Sun Chan sensed Bai Fann''s animosity but couldn''t do anything about it. So long as her conscience was clear.

    Sun Chan cared for the child for two consecutive days, catching sleep at his bedside at night and having no time to find Wang Dan. After the child could eat regrly, she bought porridge and fed him slowly, treating him as her own and loving him dearly. Children are very perceptive and knew that this sister genuinely cared for him, making him depend on her more.

    When the child experienced pain from his wound, Sun Chan would hold him and soothe him gently, which built his reliance on her.

    At first, Bai Fann had no opinion on Sun Chan caring for the child. It was merely a few yuan a day job, not interfering with her affairs. But upon overhearing a nurse talk, she learned that the child''s parents were actually officials from the neighboring city''sbor bureau.

    This time they had gone to Beijing for a business trip with an important task, temporarily unable to return. The child was left with his grandmother here, who became suddenly ill while watching him. The grandmother also wasn''t in great health and was recovering in another hospital, unable toe over.

    Upon hearing this, Bai Fann was intrigued, "Are you serious?"

    "Mm, someone overheard the director''s phone call. He sounded so enthusiastic, indicating this is a well-connected family. Otherwise, they wouldn''t have arranged a private ward for her here."

    Bai Fann remained silent, having grown up observing how her grandfather socialized. Knowing this was a good opportunity, she realized that the local hospital couldn''tpare to that in neighboring X City. If she could transfer, there''d undoubtedly be a bright future. The most crucial point was that Gu Junming''s station was there. If closer, they''d meet more often, which would naturally lead to things falling into ce.

    Yet, her grandfather resisted helping her in this regard, not yet decided about letting Bai Fann and Gu Junming be together.

    She had to rely on herself!

    Bai Fann didn''t go home after her night shift but headed straight to the ward the next day.

    Sun Chan was wiping the child''s face with a wet towel. The child, leaning against the bedside, grinned, "Sister, I want to eat buns!"

    "That''s not possible," Sun Chan said with a smile, "Your stomach isn''t well yet, you''ll have to wait a bit. Today''s porridge has century egg and vegetables, it''s delicious. I''ll get you a bowl in a moment."

    The child pouted but still agreed.

    Bai Fann entered with a smile, "It''s mealtime, anyway. Since I have no pressing matters, I''ll stay with him while you get the food."

    Sun Chan felt incredulous, "Isn''t this inappropriate? You must be tired after your shift, you should go home and rest."

    "It''s no big deal," Bai Fann responded, sitting next to the bed with a smile, "I''ll watch over him. You go ahead with your work."

 Chapter 14 Slap

    <h4>Chapter 14 - 14 p</h4>

    Sun Chan had already politely declined several times, but Bai Fann refused to leave, so she had no choice but to thank her and go out to buy porridge. When she returned to the door, she heard the heart-wrenching cries of a child.

    She rushed in to see the child lying on the floor, crying constantly, the sound piercingly sharp, while Bai Fann was sweating profusely, roughly pulling at his shoulder.

    "Enough! Stop crying! I just wanted you to get up and walk a bit, it''s good for your health. Why are you crying?"

    The child pushed Bai Fann''s hand away, still crying.

    Bai Fann, who had neverforted a child, felt a mess inside. Seeing Sun Chan arrived, she quickly got up.

    "I don''t know what''s wrong with this child, forget it. You better quicklyfort him. I''ll go prepare a lunchbox to make it easier for him to eat." She said and ran off as if fleeing.

    "Mingming, don''t cry, be strong." Sun Chan wiped his eyes with a towel, and afterforting him for quite a while, he finally stopped crying.

    By the time Bai Fann returned with a lunchbox and a spoon, Sun Chan had already calmed the child.

    Inside, she felt somewhat resistant and dismissive, thinking that these tasks were not something a doctor like her should be doing. Mingming was a bit scared seeing her and kept hiding behind Sun Chan.

    Bai Fann tried to force Mingming to eat, but he avoided her and didn''t pay any attention.

    Bai Fann finally lost her patience, throwing the spoon into the lunchbox: "You feed him, be careful, let him eat slowly."

    She was still angry when she got downstairs, thinking that a brat wouldn''t stop crying. If it weren''t for your parents, would I be treating you like this?

    For several days, whenever Bai Fann had time, she would go to Mingming''s side, though she didn''t really help, yet she gained a good reputation. Finally, the day came when his parents came to pick him up.

    They expressed gratitude towards Bai Fann, who had stayed by their son''s side.

    As for Sun Chan, Bai Fann had already sent her out to clean the lunchboxes and water basins.

    Bai Fann smiled and said, "It''s nothing, with a child alone in the hospital, I was worried something might happen, even though there''s a caregiver, but she''s from the same vige and illiterate, without any medical knowledge, and often not in the ward, so I was also concerned and came by more often."

    The two quickly took out some gifts to give to Bai Fann. They also felt a bit dissatisfied with the caregiver, wondering why the child was left unattended and why the doctor had to watch over him.

    Bai Fann declined, "It''s our duty in this profession to take care of patients, I can''t ept these things."

    Their impression of her improved even more, and they even talked about inviting her for a meal.

    Bai Fann was pleased at heart but outwardly refused hastily, "It''s what I should do."

    Mingming''s mom smiled and said, "It''s just a meal, Mingming also wants Dr. Bai to join us, right?"

    But Mingming ignored herpletely, looking around, until he saw Sun Chan returning with the lunchbox, he excitedly waved and shouted, "Sister!"

    Sun Chan smiled and walked over, "Are your parents here to pick you up?"

    "Yes!" Mingming turned to his parents and said, "This sister has been with me these days, she''s really nice! That doctor just kept pulling me and yelling at me, it was scary and painful, and she kepting to my side these days, I don''t like her, I like being with sister."

    Bai Fann''s face changed.

    Mingming''s mom smiled and pulled him, "Nonsense, the doctor wanted you to exercise so that you can recover quickly. Let''s go home."

    "She''s annoying, asking what day you''d be back and what job you have..."

    "Mingming!" Mingming''s mom tugged his arm to stop him from speaking.

    The child''s father smiled at Sun Chan, "Thank you."

    "It''s nothing, it''s what I should do." Sun Chan smiled at him, then squatted in front of Mingming, carefully instructing what he should and shouldn''t do, information she''d learned from other caregivers these days.

    Mingming hugged Sun Chan and gave her a kiss on the cheek.

    Inside, Sun Chan felt a sweet joy, very happy.

    Bai Fann said, "Sun Chan, go and help Aunt Wang, don''t just think about cking off whenever you have nothing to do."

    Sun Chan felt a bit displeased but didn''t want to argue with her in front of the child, so she turned and left. Bai Fann squatted down, gently advising Mingming on what to be careful about, but Mingming seemed not to hear and turned to find his mom.

    Mingming''s parents, having been in officialdom for years, immediately understood the situation. Their attitude towards Bai Fann cooled significantly, and they left without saying more, nor did they mention the meal.

    Bai Fann was furious, feeling like she had lost all face, thinking that the child must have been incited by Sun Chan to treat her so coldly, even causing discord between her and the two officials!

    She stormed off to Aunt Wang''s ward to confront Sun Chan, pushing the door open to find the two womenughing, having heard the word "doctor" vaguely said.

    Bai Fann felt her mind buzz with anger, stormed in, and pped her without thinking.

    The room was full of people who were stunned to see Bai Fann behave like this.

    "I hit you, you dissatisfied? How dare you gossip about others! It''s no surprise you''re from the countryside, uneducated and only know how to gossip!"

    Aunt Wang hurriedly said, "No, we were talking about something else..."

    "Shut your mouth!" Bai Fann cut Aunt Wang off, ring at Sun Chan, "You better be careful in the future! Don''t let me catch you making mistakes!" She turned to leave.

    Sun Chan said nothing, pulled her shoulder back, and gave her a hard p. The people in the room all shouted.

    Bai Fann waspletely unprepared for Sun Chan to hit her, staggering back a few steps, her face felt as if it were on fire.

    She shook with anger, trying to hit back, but several people held her back.

    Bai Fann shouted, "You hit me? How dare you! You think you''re capable, you, a country bumpkin who can''t even wash behind her ears, dare to hit me?"

    Sun Chan sneered, "So having manners means you can hit people indiscriminately? When did I ever talk about you behind your back? Everyone in the room heard our conversation, we were talking about the doctor downstairs who''s going to give our ward some roasted corn. You didn''t ask questions and just hit? So what if Ie from the vige, I''ve never troubled you, why do you treat me like this?"

    "Get lost! A person like you shouldn''t be in this hospital!"

    "Hah, I''m not your servant, why should I listen to you? Is this hospital owned by your family?" Sun Chan coldly looked at Bai Fann, "I know you''ve always looked down on me, you''ve always picked on me over trivial things, but today you came and pped me, this can''t just end like this!"

 Chapter 15: Holding a Grudge

    <h4>Chapter 15 - 15: Holding a Grudge</h4>

    "What do you want?" Bai Fann suddenlyughed, "You''re just a crappy caregiver, cleaning up messes in the hospital, and you still want to argue with me? Who gave you the confidence? Believe it or not, with just one word from me, you won''t be able to stay in this hospital?"

    Aunt Wang''s face turned dark at this statement, but she was used to being looked down upon; she held Sun Chan back and advised, "Forget it, making a fuss benefits no one."

    Bai Fann smiled smugly and turned to leave.

    But Sun Chan said, "We''re in a new society where everyone is equal, why should I be looked down upon just because I do manual work? Why should people p me around and threaten me?" Her voice was not loud, but everyone in the ward heard it, and they all looked her way.

    Bai Fann gritted her teeth, "Alright then, go ahead and file aint, I want to see what you can stir up today!"

    "Let it go, Sun Chan..."

    "Aunt Wang. I never make trouble, nor do I fear it." Sun Chan knew that Aunt Wang cared for her, but today, if she endured this, she wouldn''t be able to respect herself, let alone Bai Fann.

    The middle-aged man who had previously shed with Bai Fann over a medication error remarked, "This woman looks down on everyone with her nose in the air, disrespects people, her medical skills aren''t great and even prescribes the wrong medicine, yet doesn''t see her own conduct, huh! She should leave the hospital sooner rather thanter!"

    The others dare not offend anyone, so they remained silent but did not support Bai Fann either.

    "Zhuzhu, what nonsense are you spouting! Shut up!" the olddy shouted.

    "Did I say anything wrong? Quack doctor, fraud!"

    "You... you all..." Bai Fann was livid, pointing at Sun Chan, "You dare incite the patients against me? Just wait and see!" She rushed out, but Sun Chan quickly went out and pushed Bai Fann aside, leaving first as she knew where the dean''s office was from her time in the hospital.

    Seeing her really going, Bai Fann was a bit shocked and then furious, this woman really dares!

    Sun Chan quickly knocked and entered, the dean frowned when he saw her, "What''s the matter?"

    "Yes, I need to report something to the dean." Sun Chan told him everything Bai Fann had done, "Although I''m just a caregiver, I have my dignity and respect, and I can''t ept Doctor Bai humiliating me without reason."

    "You''re spouting nonsense!" Bai Fann stormed in angrily.

    "Is there some misunderstanding? Doctor Bai, calm down." The dean didn''t think the matter was significant and hoped Bai Fann would say something nice to resolve it.

    Bai Fann, spoiled and unaware of tact, stomped and said, "Dean, she only knows how to mess things up for the patients'' families behind the scenes, and speaks ill of me in the ward. She brings her gossip from the countryside and now Mingming''s parents are against me! Look at her rogue demeanor, just a lowly caregiver, disgusting to look at..."

    Sun Chan sneered, "Dean, you see, she''s clearly looking down on me, smearing me with false charges to hit me. I didn''t know, as caregivers, we could disgust Doctor Bai so much."

    Only now did Sun Chan realize Bai Fann''s anger was because Mingming''s parents were superiors and Mingming was close to her, causing Bai Fann to lose her chance to interact with them, making Sun Chan despise Bai Fann even more.

    "In barrennds, despicable people arise, such should stay in the vige, yet she dares toe here..."

    "Enough!" the dean said sternly, "And you''re calling yourself a doctor? Calling people lowly and from the vige��what kind of spirit is that? Twenty years ago, you''d be arrested for that! Mr. Sun, don''t mind at all, I will certainly ensure she improves her work attitude!"

    Sun Chan nodded, "Yes, thank you, dean."

    "Dean, how could you be so unfair! What is she worth that you''d help her and not me?" Bai Fann, very angry, had her mouth crooked, looking very fierce, a demeanor Bai Chuan disliked very much, criticizing her many times to change it, but today, angered by Sun Chan, she reverted.

    "Your emotions are unstable, don''t report to work for now. Reflect on your actions temporarily. I''m very busy and don''t have time to deal with these minor issues. Step out." The dean intended for her to apologize to Sun Chan and resolve the matter, but Bai Fann was such a fool, that if he was too explicit, Sun Chan''s side wouldn''t let it go, so he suspended her to calm things down,ter nning to call Bai Chuan.

    Bai Fann was stupefied, her eyes instantly red from anger.

    Sun Chan''s heart filled with a mocking smile; knowing what Bai Fann was like, her status still secured her just a short suspension, not withholding her pay. That''s the difference.

    Bai Fann entirely misunderstood the dean''s intention, only feeling she lost face in front of Sun Chan, red angrily at Sun Chan, and stormed out. The door mmed with a loud bang.

    The deanforted Sun Chan a little more before sending her out. He was quite upset too; what''s up with Bai Fann? Such a doctor could still bring undue shame to the institution; offending a caregiver might not matter, but if she offends others with connectionster, won''t it be big trouble? So he just removed her from the list for future training sessions.

    Sun Chan returned to the ward, and Aunt Wang nervously said, "Sun Chan, if she holds a grudge and doesn''t let you work, what will you do?"

    Sun Chan smiled, "Don''t worry, I''ll just do my job. This hospital isn''t hers; can she just drive me away? I won''t let her insult me for nothing."

    Bai Fann returned home and cried bitterly, determinedly hating Sun Chan.

    She wanted to find her grandpa to have him get Sun Chan expelled through the leadership, but unfortunately, he was away for a conference, so she had to hold off for now.

    The next day, the hospital admitted a severely ill patient, originally intended for Sun Chan. Bai Fann had kept an eye on this, and upon learning about it, quickly called the colleague, said a few words, and they refused to let Sun Chan take it; thus, the job opportunity vanished.

    Aunt Wang found out and advised Sun Chan not to get upset.

    Sun Chan smiled, "It''s alright, I''m thinking of resting a bit, staying at the hospital I haven''t visited any friends."

    While confronting Bai Fann, she foresaw wearing thin shoes but didn''t regret it; reborn, she wouldn''t be bullied, no one could trample her dignity. As for work, that woulde eventually; Bai Fann''s capabilities couldn''t block everything.

 Chapter 16: Improper

    <h4>Chapter 16 - 16: Improper</h4>

    Wang Dan was quite happy to see Sun Chan, and on the way back she told Sun Chan, "I''m getting married on National Day."

    Sun Chan eximed in delight, "Really? Congrattions!"

    "Yeah, his parents were stubbornly refusing to agree to buy an apartment. Even though they have money, they won''t spend it and even said that I''m marrying up by moving from the vige to the city, and wanting too much would just make peopleugh. I wasn''t worried; if they didn''t agree, the engagement would be off. In the end, they still had to listen to me. Their son likes me; if they want to scheme, they have to see if they have the capability." Wang Dan said proudly.

    Sun Chan smiled and said, "With your personality, you surely won''t be a pushover once you''re married."

    She also talked about her job as a caregiver at the hospital.

    Wang Danughed and said, "Not bad! But this job relies on luck, and you''re young, most people wouldn''t really dare to hire you. You''ll have to endure for a while."

    Sun Chan nodded; what she said made sense. She also had no education. In her previous life, when the caregiver industry developed, it required qualifications. She was just a primary school graduate, so it seemed it wouldn''t be easy to do this kind of work. Moreover, now that the child was discharged from the hospital, she was out of a job again, with no choice but to wait for opportunities.

    Such insecure work,bined with Bai Fann''s meddling, was really a bit troubling.

    Anyway, she still earned money, and it felt really good. Adding it to what she took from Sun Lijuan, it was more than thirty cents in total. To pay back the money owed to Gu Lianzhang, she''d have to keep working hard.

    Wang Dan''s little house where she lives with her colleague was quite tidy. Although it wasn''t big, the yard and the main gate were done nicely.

    At that moment, Wang Dan was holding the key ready to open the door, only to find the main gate was unlocked. She froze and puzzledly said, "At this time, everyone should be out at work, what''s going on?"

    Sun Chan pulled Wang Dan back: "We''d better not forcefully go in; if we run into troublemakers, it wouldn''t be good."

    Wang Dan quickly hid behind Sun Chan upon hearing that, "What should we do?"

    Sun Chan took a few steps closer, held her breath, and listened carefully for a while, then turned back and said, "It seems like there''sughter."

    "Huh?" Wang Dan listened closely; indeed, a thief wouldn''t be so brazen.

    Sun Chan moved even closer to the door and heard a flirtatious conversation between a man and a woman.

    "Stop it! What if someone sees us?"

    "Who woulde at this time? Aren''t they all at work?"

    The girl said, "Still, we shouldn''t. Let''s go back. I told the leader I was going to deliver something; it wouldn''t be good if I''mte. Ah ah!"

    Wang Dan suddenly cursed angrily and directly opened the door, just in time to see a man and woman yfully pulling at each other.

    The girl was only about eighteen or neen, average-looking but quite stylish, with permed hair, her clothes a bit untidy, a blush on her cheeks. The man beside her was good-looking, dressed well, but his eyes were shifty, clearly not trustworthy. His hand was around her slender waist, and his belt wasn''t even done up properly.

    Sun Chan wasn''t a naive girl; she immediately understood what was going on, and her face turned red with embarrassment.

    It''s only thete 80s, and between a man and woman, at most, they might hold hands. How could something like this happen? And in a shared dormitory, no less.

    Both of them eximed in surprise, hastily fixing their clothes.

    Wang Dan stared directly at the small bed outside the room, which was her bed!

    Because she was expecting Sun Chan, she had changed the bedding, but seeing the messy traces, there was no need to ask, they must have messed around on her bed!

    The girl was indeed thick-skinned and said with a smile, "Oh, it''s Wang Dan. My friend came over, and we stayed here for a while. We didn''t do anything; don''t think too much about it."

    "Lin Hongmei, I don''t want to say much to you. In an hour, wash my bedding. Don''t bring anyone here again! Don''t you have any decency?" Actually, Wang Dan could have said something nastier, but seeing the man didn''t seem decent, she let it be. Offending such a bully could cause trouble in the future.

    The man nced at Wang Dan; she was physically robust and didn''t catch his interest.

    Then his gaze fell on Sun Chan, and his eyes instantly lit up. Though the girl was poorly dressed, with hair covering half her face, she had a unique charm. Being a seasoned yer, he found himself captivated upon first nce.

    Sun Chan didn''t pay attention to him, only observing the room, which had three beds inside and five people living there. Although not big, it looked quite tidy. She envied them; how nice would it be to have a room like this one day?

    Wang Dan''s insults left Lin Hongmei feeling embarrassed, but thinking she might marry someone wealthy renewed her confidence.

    "Do you have to be so petty? You''re bringing your friend here to stay too, and I didn''t say anything about it. Same rules for everyone." Lin Hongmei originally intended to bring him into her room, but her bedding was too old. It was a rare catch of a wealthy one. She didn''t want him to see her being shabby, so they stayed here. Unexpectedly, they got caught red-handed!

    Wang Dan''s eyes burned with anger as she heard her words: "You call me petty? Do you want me to tell the Director about this and see what he''ll say? Then you won''t even be able to keep your job. I''m giving you some face, so don''t push your luck!"

    Sun Chan tugged at her arm, trying to stop her.

    Coldly, Wang Dan said, "I''ll give you an hour. If it''s not washed clean, I''ll go straight to the Director!" After saying that, she turned and mmed the door shut as she left.

    On the way, Wang Dan was still furious. Sun Chan said, "After all, she''s your colleague. It''s not good to make things too tense."

    Wang Dan snorted, "Lin Hongmei sells men''s clothing. It''s been heard that a wealthy man has been pursuing her for a while. It''s probably this Han Dong. His family is quite wealthy, both parents are in business. But I think he''s not a decent guy."

    Sun Chan nodded. Now, although doing business can earn more money, people generally feel that having a formal job looks more respectable. Given their age and still out hustling, it shows they''re quite farsighted.

    Wang Dan angrily pped a telephone pole, "I''m so mad! It''s disgusting!"

    Sun Chan counseled, "You''re getting married soon. Just hold on a little longer, and you''ll move out soon. Why get yourself worked up?"

    Wang Dan worriedly said, "Once I leave, you won''t have a ce to stay either. Renting on your own is too expensive."

    Sun Chan smiled, "We''ll take it one step at a time. I can''t always bother you. Besides, if Sun Lijuan shows up, they''ll assume you took me in. And as you''ve seen, with people like that around, it''s inconvenient for me to stay here." Sun Chan thought it would be best to quickly find a full-time caregiver job, allowing her to stay in the hospital.

 Chapter 17: Making Plans

    <h4>Chapter 17 - 17: Making ns</h4>

    "Ugh! The heavens are unfair, letting Sun Lijuan live so well while you have to suffer." She patted Sun Chan on the shoulder.

    Sun Chan smiled but said nothing. The heavens had already given her a chance to be reborn, which was merciful enough.

    While the two of them were outside strolling, inside the room, Lin Hongmei was struggling to wash sheets and duvet covers.

    Lin Hongmei was crouching on the floor washing, while a many on another bed, carefree, his long legs swinging, looking like he couldn''t care less.

    "Can''t you help me?" Lin Hongmei was full of anger.

    "How can I help you? I don''t even wash my own clothes at home." Han Dong yawned, looking out the window.

    "You don''t care now, but if she speaks out, I''m done for."

    "What''s the big deal? Just deny it. It''s not like we''ve been caught in the act or pinned to the bed." Han Dong suddenly sat up, looking at Lin Hongmei, "Right, do you know the girl with Wang Dan? What''s her name?"

    Upon hearing this, Lin Hongmei got anxious and mmed her clothes into the basin: "What do you mean? I''m with you, and you''re thinking about someone else?"

    She had been arguing with Wang Dan just now and hadn''t noticed what the girl behind her looked like. She wasn''t stupid; hearing Han Dong''s words ignited her anger instantly.

    Han Dong said nothing, while Lin Hongmei, her hands still soapy, pointed at him, "Asking about another woman in front of me? What do you take me for? Are you ying me?"

    Han Dong, smiling, grabbed her hand, "Do you need to be so angry? I was just asking casually."

    "Cut it out!" Lin Hongmei''s chest heaved with anger, her eyes wide: "I''m a girl from a decent family, not some shameless woman. I''m with you because you said you''d marry me. Are you bored now that you''ve got me and want to dump me? If you dare to dump me, I''ll use you of being a rogue. If I can''t have it good, neither can you!"

    In the past, fooling around couldnd you in jail, even get you executed. But now it''s just a two-month detention. Han Dong had been there before, just dreaded the nagging from his family, especially his brother, who was fiercely ruthless. What if he found out and broke Han Dong''s legs?

    Han Dong quickly, smilingly, grabbed her hand, "I was just asking casually, why so angry? That country girl doesn''t catch my eye. She was making eyes at me when she came through the door. I found it amusing."

    Lin Hongmei, upon hearing this, cursed instantly, "Shameless! Doesn''t she see who she is, having delusions about my man!" The little vixen Wang Dan brought back wasn''t decent. Trying to hook up with my guy at first sight, is she out of her mind?

    Han Dong tilted his head, catching sight of her shirt cor, loose and revealing whiteness beneath.

    A thought stirred within him. He got off the bed, one hand on her waist, seeking a kiss, but Lin Hongmei pushed him away: "Stop it! Now that I''m yours, when will you marry me?"

    "I can''t rush things, can I? You know myst rtionship is still haunting me, and it''s been less than a month since we fully broke up. I don''t care, but I fear my parents will think you''re frivolous. Just wait, I promise to take you home."

    Lin Hongmei finally smiled, sitting back to wash the sheets. Thinking of her future luxurious life as a wealthy wife made her heart flutter.

    Han Dong nced at her, thinking, This type wants to marry me? Dream on! The girl earlier was really pretty, seemed very poor, and hadn''t seen much of the world. Doesn''t seem like it would cost much to get her. He began plotting how to woo her.

    When Sun Chan and Wang Dan returned, they found everyone gone, the sheets and covers washed and hanging outside. Wang Dan sighed with relief, taking the old cover to rece it: "Just bear with me for a few days."

    Sun Chan thanked her, "Really, thank you."

    "No need for that, let''s cook."

    The girls living together took turns cooking. Today, Wang Dan got off early, so it was her turn.

    Sun Chan felt guilty about staying and eating for free, so she offered to cook, making a two-grain rice with a small pot on top, filled with washed eggnt. Once the rice was done, the eggnt was steamed, mixed with chili, garlic, soy sauce, and salt, it tasted great. Sun Chan also stir-fried shredded potatoes and made a cold dish with bok choy. Wang Dan just helped out with little tasks.

    Just as the food was ready, outside came the sound of girls talking andughing as they returned.

    Apart from Lin Hongmei they had seen earlier, there were three girls, all young women. Because Wang Dan had mentioned it beforehand, they were friendly, greeting Sun Chan. Seeing they were easy-going, Sun Chan felt relieved. A house full of Lin Hongmeis wouldn''t be good.

    "Let''s eat. Today''s meal is cooked by Sun Chan," Wang Dan smiled.

    "Really? It looks delicious!"

    "Yeah, you really know how to cook."

    While washing her hands, Lin Hongmei raised her head, "Has the price of rice gone up again? I don''t mind her staying, but our rice, flour, oil, and food are split five ways. Add another person, how do we settle this? Do you want us to go hungry or cover her share?"

    Wang Dan widened her eyes, but Sun Chan held her back, smiling at Lin Hongmei, "I asked Wang Dan before and have a rough idea of your daily food expenses. I''ll calcte the days I stay and settle up, don''t worry."

    The others quickly tried to smooth things over, "No worries, you''re not here every day."

    A round-faced girlughed, "Lin Hongmei, you''ve said countless times you want to marry a rich man, why so stingy? Afraid your inws will say you can''t manage a household?"

    Everyoneughed at this.

    Only then did Lin Hongmei fall silent, ring at Sun Chan.

    After dinner, amidst someughter and chatter, they cleaned up and got ready for bed. No one said much, but Lin Hongmei stomped around, seemingly looking for trouble, yet remembered she should remainposed as a future rich wife, so she stayed quiet.

    Wang Dan and Sun Chan shared a bed. Sun Chan felt awkward squeezing in, so she curled up to avoid leaning against her. Tossing and turning untilte at night, she finally fell into a daze and drifted off.

    She didn''t know when suddenly there was a thumping noise, someone was banging on the door.

    "Open! Open the door!" a sharp woman''s voice demanded.

 Chapter 18 A False Alarm

    <h4>Chapter 18 - 18 A False rm</h4>

    Sun Chan felt as if she had been electrocuted, and all the hairs on her body stood up. She sat up straight away, nervously looking in the direction of the yard. It sounded like Sun Lijuan''s voice. Could it be that she hade looking for her?

    "I came all the way here, are you still pretending to be dead? Come out!"

    Sun Chan''s heart was pounding. Was it Sun Lijuan herself, or did she bring a lot of people with her? Was she going to be taken back tonight?

    Wang Dan and a few other girls had been woken up by themotion. Upon hearing the voice, Wang Dan quickly became alert too, pulling on her clothes and heading outside.

    Sun Chan also packed up her things a bit: "If things don''t work out, I''ll leave. I can''t let you be troubled, I can just jump out from the small courtyard at the back."

    Wang Dan shook her head and said, "I won''t let her in, this is my ce. Can she juste as she pleases?"

    "But..." Sun Chan didn''t want to burden her, but Wang Dan waspletely unconcerned and firmly held her hand.

    The woman outside continued to smash the door: "Damn bastard! I just finished my night shift, and you can''t evene to pick me up? Are you looking to die?"

    It turned out to be the neighbor woman. From the sound of it, her husband was drunk and hadn''te to pick her up from her night shift, so she was throwing a fit outside.

    It was actually a false rm, but Sun Chan was startled into a sweat. It felt as if all her strength had been drained away, and she leaned against the wall.

    Wang Dan held her hand: "Don''t worry, it''s not her, everything''s fine."

    Sun Chan let out a bitter smile. She thought, although nothing happened today, there was no guarantee that such a thing wouldn''t happen in the future, and she would continue to burden Wang Dan.

    Lin Hongmei leaned against the doorway, half smiling. She was already dissatisfied with Wang Dan bringing Sun Chan along, and seeing their reactions, she could tell there was definitely something going on.

    She muttered: "What are you two worried about? Did Sun Chan do something she shouldn''t have?"

    She nced at Sun Chan. Upon closer look, she was indeed somewhat attractive, which made her even more resentful.

    "Alright, continue sleeping, what does it have to do with you?" Wang Dan gave her a look.

    "That''s not right. We all live together; if she did something wrong, I don''t want to be implicated."

    Wang Dan sneered: "And you''repletely innocent and free of mistakes? Worrying about others? I can barely manage with old bedding with Sun Chan right now! One more word, and don''t me me for speaking my mind!" Wang Dan''s one sentence rendered Lin Hongmei speechless. She angrily went back, covering her head with a nket.

    Sun Chan temporarily settled at Wang Dan''s ce. Apart from Lin Hongmei''s continuous cold remarks, everyone else was pretty kind to her. However, she herself didn''t want to stay there, not wanting to affect Wang Dan. She also started nning for herself, thinking about what to do if Zhao Xiuxia found her. In such a small town, it was only a matter of time.

    Fortunately, on the third day, the hospital admitted an elderlydy who was paralyzed and unable to care for herself. She was staring with two cloudy eyes, calling out. She was incontinent, even worse than the uncle Aunt Wang was taking care of.

    Though she had several sons and daughters-inw, none of them were willing to take care of her. They just wanted to hire a caregiver.

    Aunt Wang quickly introduced Sun Chan for the job. Bai Fann tried her best to block and obstruct, but since the job was exhausting and dirty, no other caregiver wanted to take it.

    In the end, they had to hire Sun Chan. Upon knowing the news, Sun Chan was very happy.

    Bai Fann was so angry in the office that she threw files around, feeling very depressed. She remembered that day when she pped Sun Chan and even suspended her for three days, causing her to miss out on an opportunity to study abroad. She was trembling with rage, but grandfather only said, "You were too impulsive, offending people without knowing. I spoke to the director, you can go next time."

    "Grandpa! I don''t care; you must fire her!"

    "Enough, I''m busy. Don''t bother me with such trivial matters!" Bai Chuan wrapped up the conversation and headed to the study. He was preupied with other important matters, having no time to deal with such minor issues.

    Knowing there was no room for overturning the situation, Bai Fann wished Sun Chan would disappear immediately, but this woman stubbornly stayed, just to get on her nerves!

    Because the rtives requested 24-hour care, they set up a small bed next to the patient''s bed where Sun Chan stayed, so she didn''t have to go to Wang Dan''s anymore.

    Sun Chan worked very diligently,bing hair, washing face, wiping body, cleaning up the excrements, doing all well. The rtives were quite satisfied.

    Although the olddy didn''t make it and passed away less than a weekter, Sun Chan''s reputation for being responsible and caring spread. More people started seeking her services, and Sun Chan''s wallet gradually grew fuller.

    The money gave Sun Chan unprecedented confidence. In her past life, she had no money, and her fate rested in someone else''s hands. But in this life, she decided to strive hard for herself, to live, and live with dignity!

    Wang Dan suggested she buy some nice clothes, but she refused. She was not particr about eating or dressing; since she worked every day, it was inconvenient to wear nice clothes.

    With money, she first visited a bookstore and bought several books, all about how to care for patients. She realized she knew very little about medical knowledge and had to catch up, so as not to identally hurt someone, which was not a joke. She seized every opportunity to read and learn, while working as a caregiver to earn money. In less than a month, she lost a considerable amount of weight, but her spirits were high.

    Han Dong secretly inquired about Sun Chan''s whereabouts, looking for her for quite some time before discovering her location. But Sun Chan always remained distant, entirely ignoring him.

    She wore shabby clothes daily, upied with taking care of people, fetching water, delivering meals, assisting patients with personal care. Some unreasonable patient rtives spoke harshly, and he couldn''t help wanting to punch them when he overheard, but Sun Chan always calmly listened and exined. Her temperament was mild but not submissive. She hardly suffered losses, having quite an interesting character.

    Sun Chan naturally knew someone was always discreetly watching her, but she couldn''t be bothered to acknowledge it, pretending not to know.

    That day, the patient Sun Chan was caring for was discharged. She was about to look for Wang Dan when a young aide stopped her.

    Her name was Li Zhaodi, from the same vige as Aunt Wang. She had been around for two weeks already, and she was quite familiar, from a pretty impoverished family with four or five sisters and a younger brother. She wore patched-up clothes, and her family tried to sell her several times to exchange for dowry.

    She managed to escape, and Sun Chan felt sorry for her, remembering her own past. So, while providing meals sometimes, she would asionally bring her a bun.

    Li Zhaodi was naturally very grateful, calling her "Big Sister" repeatedly. Sun Chan felt it was nice to have a rtive.

 Chapter 19 Pursuit

    <h4>Chapter 19 - 19 Pursuit</h4>

    Sun Chan was carrying a basin to the washroom to wash some towels.

    As soon as she stepped out, someone blocked her path: "Hey! I finally found you."

    Sun Chan looked up at the person in front of her, and cautiously took a few steps back: "What do you want?"

    Han Dong was trying to act cool, wearing a floral shirt and bell-bottom pants, with a pair of sunsses hanging around his neck. Ever since seeing Sun Chan that day, he couldn''t forget her. Seeing her now, his face lit up with a smile; she truly is beautiful!

    "Don''t get mad, I just want to chat with you."

    Sun Chan said coldly, "Chat about what? I don''t know you."

    Han Dong stepped closer: "Lin Hongmei''s friend is my friend. Isn''t it normal for us to get to know each other? Let''s connect."

    "I''m not friends with her, go find someone else to connect with." She finished speaking and headed towards the washroom with her basin.

    Not giving up, Han Dong took out a watch and waved it in front of her: "Isn''t it pretty? It''s a Shanghai-made watch, I bought it when I went to the provincial capital. If you like it, I''ll give it to you now. Later I''ll treat you to dinner. Do you like hotpot? I''ll put the watch on you, and then we''ll go eat." He said, reaching out to grab Sun Chan''s hand.

    He had pursued many city girls before, and when they saw the watch he gave, the excitement and envy in their eyes couldn''t be hidden��and they were city dwellers. How about someone from the countryside?

    Before he could touch Sun Chan, she suddenly pushed Han Dong aside: "Get away, who cares about your stuff! Stop harassing me, or I won''t be polite!"

    What kind of person is this? Thinking a watch could buy her off? Just like Lin Hongmei, willing to give herself?

    Han Dong was stunned, unable to believe it for a moment: "You actually pushed me?"

    "Please show some respect." Sun Chan red coldly at him and entered the washroom, closing the door heavily.

    Standing to the side, Han Dong wasn''t angry; instead, heughed, finding it very amusing. This girl has character, spicy and intriguing, quite interesting.

    He had found his goal to strive for during this time, and walked away whistling.

    Han Dong started buying her things every few days, all trendy clothes and shoes, but Sun Chan didn''t ept them, nor did she pay him any attention. Han Dong wasn''t the type of thug who would force himself upon someone; he just followed her around, finding her more attractive with each passing moment.

    So virtuous��if she were to marry into his family, his parents would probably be overjoyed. They''d definitely be pleased.

    Then he was startled by his own thought: No way, for the first time he wanted to marry a woman, and the woman turned out to be a vige girl?

    But this girl was indeed special. Han Dong saw her joking with patients, eyes squinting, corners of her mouth turned up, and his mood improved as well. He walked over, but as soon as Sun Chan saw Han Dong appear again, her face changed swiftly, her brows furrowing slightly, biting her bright red lips as if tasting the hawthorn candy he bought in the provincial capital.

    "What exactly do you want?"

    "I don''t want anything, I just came to see a patient."

    Sun Chan said nothing, red at him, and turned to leave, while Han Dong watched her retreating figure, finding her truly adorable.

    That morning, Han Dong came over again with a cloth bag to find Sun Chan.

    At that time, there were no stic bags; people used flower cloth to sew bags, so nothing inside could be seen. The contents made the bag bulging, but its contents couldn''t be seen.

    Seeing Sun Chaning out, looking displeased, he smiled: "What''s up? Is it because you saw me? You shouldn''t be like this."

    "It has nothing to do with you." She wasn''t unhappy because of him; she had taken a job yesterday but was dismissed after only one day. Although no reason was given, Sun Chan knew Bai Fann was behind it, feeling very upset.

    "This is for you; it will cheer you up." Han Dong handed the bag to her.

    Sun Chan was very resistant: "What is this?"

    "Don''t worry, I''m not trying to lure you with anything valuable. It''s some fruit my big brother brought back from the south, which we don''t have here yet. I wanted you to try it." He opened the bag for Sun Chan to see; it was filled with mangoes, lemons, and two small dragon fruits.

    These fruits she hadn''t eaten in her previous life. For Northern locals, they were too luxurious. So asionally, Zhou Jinzhu would buy some and eat them himself. Later, when she returned home to work, she would see Sun Lijuan and Zhao Xiuxia eating them but wouldn''t get any herself. She pretended not to see and never asked.

    Seeing these things reminded Sun Chan of her previous life''s miserable days. She said nothing, her eyes turning red.

    Han Dong froze; Sun Chan had always been very tough and distant in front of him, and he never expected her reaction to these fruits to be this sad. Her expression revealed an extraordinary sadness, as if she had endured the hardships of the world, yet she was only seventeen years old��how could she be so unhappy?

    Suddenly, a surge of emotion rushed to Han Dong''s heart: "Tell me, who bullied you? I''ll help you teach them a lesson!"

    Sun Chan realized her inappropriate behavior and wiped her eyes, saying: "It''s not that, I''m just worried about not having work. These things are rare, so keep them for yourself."

    Yet Han Dong insisted on putting them in her hand: "How can you be like this? You don''t want valuable things or free fruits, how can we be friends?"

    "But I don''t want to be friends with you. Just respect me; I don''t want your food."

    "Take it. I guarantee once you ept it, I won''t pester you anymore."

    Sun Chan was taken aback; his request was quite odd.

    Han Dong continued: "Don''t worry, you are different in my heart from those other women. I won''t let you be bullied." He said this quickly and left, not even looking directly at Sun Chan.

    Because seeing Sun Chan like this made him ufortable, with a vague ache in his heart. He went to the mall to inquire tactfully, learning from Lin Hongmei''s colleagues that Sun Chan''s adoptive mother and sister treated her badly, and she had run away from home.

    In her life, she probably hadn''t eaten anything delicious, not even a proper meal.

    No way! I want to give her the best food in the world, so she won''t be this unhappy!

    Not long after, Han Dong returned, not of his own will, because he hurried too much whileing down the mall steps and twisted his ankle.

    Limping back to find Sun Chan, he was drenched in sweat.

    Sun Chan was dazing at the hospital entrance, having contacted several aunts about work but none wanted her; Yang Ban was determined not to let her remain here.

    Seeing him return again, Sun Chan felt a bit helpless: "What happened to you?"

    "My foot... hurts... I fell down the steps." He looked at Sun Chan pitifully.

    Sun Chan noticed the problem and quickly walked over to grab his arm: "You should be more careful. Wait, I''ll register you for an appointment!" She handed the cloth bag back to Han Dong and quickly ran downstairs.

 Chapter 20: Cheap Emotions

    <h4>Chapter 20 - 20: Cheap Emotions</h4>

    She stayed with Han Dong to finish seeing the doctor, then asked the doctor for bandaging. At first, Han Dong was very happy, butter her attitude became very cold. She handed him the receipt and turned to leave.

    Han Dong hurriedly stopped her, "Wait, why are you leaving me like this again? You''re the caretaker, take care of me!"

    "You don''t need to be hospitalized."

    "No, I''m not feeling well, I still need to be hospitalized." But having such an opportunity to get close to Sun Chan, how could Han Dong let it slip by?

    Han Dong immediately went through the hospitalization procedures and asked Sun Chan to take care of him.

    Sun Chan looked at him somewhat speechlessly, Han Dong smiled and patted her shoulder, "Don''t feel pressured, treat me the same as you treat others. No need to be particrly nice."

    "I won''t be nice to you."

    "Sun Chan, you were clearly concerned about me just now!"

    Sun Chan sighed, "Because I''ve realized that I''m too easily moved." She walked into the corridor.

    The fruits, thinking of the suffering she once endured, Han Dong merely gave her some fruits, and her heart softened. Perhaps it was because she longed too much for human concern.

    She finished paying for Han Dong, suddenly remembering a woman from a past life in the vige. She willingly married a scoundrel, did all the chores outside the house throughout her life, and when she was hard to deliver her fourth child, her husband refused to pay to send her to the hospital, and she died from massive bleeding on the earthen bed.

    Sun Chan once asked her why she married that man, "You''re not me. Your parents are still alive, you have options."

    The woman reminisced with a face full of happiness, "My parents only liked my younger siblings, no one ever cared about me, only he treated me well."

    And what he called treating her well was just once when she was doingundry under the scorching sun, he came with a fan in hand and fanned her a few times.

    "Such hot weather, you''re working hard."

    Just that one gesture, and she felt this person was concerned about her.

    Sun Chan shared this story with Han Dong, "I feel like my feelings are simr, thinking I''m quite pitiful. If you continue like this, maybe you can truly move me. After all, no one has been kind to me since I was a child."

    The sunlight from the window shone in, her skin almost transparently white, her pink ears, and eyes with tears made Han Dong a bit flustered.

    "I don''t think you really want to use a few fruits to trap me for life, goodbye." She said and was about to leave.

    But Han Dong resolutely refused, spreading his arms to block her way, "Sun Chan, I won''t pursue you anymore. I promise! Believe me. I... I swear."

    Sun Chan sighed, "Then you can stay."

    "Great! Well, I feel like eating a mango." He followed her with a cheeky grin, but his heart felt sour.

    "You said you''d give them to me, you''re eating them yourself." Sun Chan said so, but she still took them out. He persistently stayed with Sun Chan, chatting, but Sun Chan just responded indifferently.

    Not long after they got to the ward, the door opened, and several doctors came in for rounds.

    Bai Fann was also there, saw Sun Chan sitting next to a patient, and her eyes flicked. This woman had found a new job again.

    Sun Chan pretended not to see her and didn''t speak. Bai Fann purposely stayed a little longer, "Go and get some water to wipe the area clean, look how dirty it is here, it''s not good for the patient''s health."

    Sun Chan went out. She knew what Bai Fann was trying to do; if you want to make trouble, just do so.

    When Sun Chan returned, she heard Han Dong shouting, and several other patients in the ward were trying to persuade him.

    "I was wondering why Sun Chan never had a job, it''s because of you stirring things up! She''s young, from the vige, can''t she be a caretaker? Then many caretakers at your hospital wouldn''t have a job! You say your medical skills aren''t great, full of bad water, be careful you toxic person can''t find a match, or even if you can, can''t have kids!"

    Bai Fann angrily retorted, "What''s your quality? I''m going to report you to the security department!"

    "What''s your quality? You sent my caretaker away and whispered in my ear saying you wanted to date me, I didn''t want to, so you ndered me!"

    "You''re a shameless scoundrel!" Bai Fann was almost dying of rage.

    "Shameless scoundrel, yet youe close to me, let''s go see the leader to reflect on who is truly shameless?"

    Bang! The door opened, Bai Fann stomped out in a huff, not seeing Sun Chan, walked in the opposite direction. In a rush, she sprained her ankle, walked limping down the corridor, so angry that tears fell.

    Sun Chan couldn''t help but lift the corners of her mouth, she finally faced some disadvantage.

    Seeing her return, Han Dong greeted Sun Chan, "Come, I stood up for you."

    Although Sun Chan gave him a re, she was still very grateful in her heart.

    Han Dong originally wanted to stay for a few days, but unfortunately, he was picked up that afternoon. Sun Chan went to buy dinner at the time and only saw that he was gone when she returned.

    The patients in the same ward gave her ten yuan, "That''s from the family, they said you''ve worked hard, and since his illness isn''t serious, he''s gone to recuperate at home."

    Sun Chan saw the bag of fruits still nicely ced there, unsure of her feelings.

    Although this job was gone, since Bai Fann was scolded by Han Dong, she didn''t dare to randomly interfere, otherwise, if the mindless guy held on to her, she''d be in real trouble. So Sun Chan quickly found another job, she kept some of the fruits, and the rest were given to Wang Dan.

    Wang Dan was also very happy, "Such good things, can I send a few to my partner''s family?"

    Sun Chanughed, "Don''t send the lemons, they can whiten."

    "Got it." Wang Dan cherished these few fruits dearly.

    Lin Hongmei, after work, noticed and covertly hinted she wanted some, but Wang Dan didn''t pay any mind, making Lin Hongmei so angry she gnashed her teeth. Realizing Han Dong hadn''te to find her for quite a while, her heart sank bit by bit.

    It took Lin Hongmei three days to find Han Dong at a game hall he frequented, "When exactly are we getting married, make it clear!"

    "Since you''re asking like this, let me be direct, my parents don''t agree." Han Dong said, a cigarette between his lips, smiling at her.

    "You''re lying!" Lin Hongmei shouted anxiously, "When you were taking advantage of me, why didn''t you say your parents disagreed! Now that you''ve used me, you don''t want to take responsibility, dream on, you''re a rogue, I''ll sue you! You must marry me, and you have to give me ten thousand yuan for the dowry, so I can marry gloriously. After that, I must manage your money, otherwise, I won''t let you go!"

    Han Dong''s eyes narrowed, "Then go ahead and sue me! If I''m afraid, I wouldn''t be Han Dong. If I end up in jail, do you think my parents would amodate you? We''re just dating, who said you can''t have that and have to get married after? This isn''t the old society! Who are you threatening?"

    Han Dong initially had charming eyes, which instantly turned fierce, scaring Lin Hongmei into a shiver, she dared not stop Han Dong, letting him leave swaggeringly.

    In reality, Lin Hongmei didn''t truly dare to report, once reported, regardless of Han Dong''s oue, she wouldn''t be able to marry for life.

 Chapter 21: Rarely Did So Well

    <h4>Chapter 21 - 21: Rarely Did So Well</h4>

    Lin Hongmei doesn''t hate Han Dong, but she hates Sun Chan. Ever since he met that fox spirit, his attitude changed; she definitely seduced him and ruined her chance to be a wealthy wife!

    At the hospital, Li Zhaodi, introduced by Aunt Wang, had been waiting for some time, and finally someone introduced a patient who had just undergone heart surgery.

    Who knew that just as she got the job, she would awkwardly ask Sun Chan, "Can you watch the patient for a while? I need to send a telegram home today to tell them I found work, or else they''ll worry about me. I''ll be back soon. The patient just had surgery and hasn''t woken up yet, so it won''t trouble you much."

    Sun Chan thought going a bitter wouldn''t be a problem, so she agreed.

    "You''re so great, thank you, Sun Chan." Li Zhaodi was very happy and ran off quickly.

    Sun Chan went into the ward. The patient looked very frail, with closed eyes and still unconscious. She quietly sat by the bedside. She intended to read a book, but to her surprise, Han Dong came through the door.

    Sun Chan was shocked and feared waking the patient, "What are you doing here?"

    Han Dong was a bit frustrated, "Why are you always like this? You know I''m not pursuing you anymore, can''t we just be friends?"

    Sun Chan calmly looked at him, "Friendship should happen naturally. Your forceful approach is ufortable for me. Just because you''re serious for once, doesn''t mean I have to ept it, right?"

    "What kind of man do you like? I''ll change!"

    "What do you like about me? I''ll change."

    Han Dong looked defeated; he thought he wasn''t bad-looking, had money, yet he couldn''t catch her eye.

    Sun Chan said, "Friendship happens naturally, not because you keep pestering. We won''t just be friends that way."

    "I won''t pester you, but don''t ignore me either. Why don''t you just point out my ws and, once I change, you''ll see my sincerity."

    Sun Chan nced at him, "My friends are all doing something meaningful. I don''t like youing to the hospital every day."

    "Got it, I''ll find something to do." You could have said earlier that you liked career-oriented people.

    Sun Chan stopped talking. Over time, she realized Han Dong wasn''t necessarily bad, just a bit twisted regarding romantic rtionships; he looked down on women, thinking small favors could win them over, which she disliked.

    "Don''t worry, I understand what you mean, and I''ll improve. My big brother says I''m smart, and once I improve, I''ll surely surpass others." Han Dong was excited, confident he could win her heart since she finally wasn''t ring at him.

    Sun Chan said, "Men and women should keep their distance. Stop looking for me all the time; it affects my work."

    "Understood! I''ll head back now and see you in a couple of days!" Han Dong walked off, grinning.

    Su Chan reluctantly smiled and picked up her book.

    Li Zhaodi returned in less than an hour, said some grateful words, and Sun Chan politely replied before leaving.

    That night, she stayed at Wang Dan''s ce. When everyone returned to see Sun Chan there, setting the table, she made hand-pulled noodles paired with sour beans; it tasted great.

    Wang Dan warmly invited everyone to eat, "Haven''t tasted Sun Chan''s cooking for a long time,e and try it!"

    "Great! It smells delicious!" Everyone cheerfully washed their hands.

    Seeing Sun Chan, Lin Hongmei''s eyes red, and she stormed in, grabbing her cor as if to hit Sun Chan.

    Everyone was shocked; Wang Dan swiftly grabbed her wrist, "Are you crazy? What did Sun Chan do to you that you''d start hitting her?"

    "Han Dong was supposed to be mine, but she keeps seducing him. Shouldn''t I hit her?"

    She was nearly mad, wondering how her man could be lured away by such a clueless vige girl!

    Sun Chan coldly looked at Lin Hongmei, "Stop spewing nonsense, why would I seduce your boyfriend?"

    "You dare say he hasn''t approached me? You''re a natural fox spirit..."

    "What are you talking about!" Sister Du, the oldest, shouted, "What are you saying? We''re all unmarried young girls here, doesn''t your talk disgust you?"

    "I don''t care, Sun Chan, swear to me! If you ever meet him, may you die a horrible death!"

    Sun Chan sneered, "Why should I swear? Whether I see him or not, what does it have to do with you? If you''re so afraid of losing your boyfriend, go blindfold him! Then no one will see him, and he''ll behave."

    "What are you saying..."

    Sun Chan continued, "I''ve never heard of a wife who won''t let other women talk to her husband. Besides, you haven''t married him yet. Act normal! Don''t disgrace yourself!"

    Wang Dan apuded silently, surprised to see Sun Chan so fierce!

    If not for those awful remarks earlier, she wouldn''t bother. Instead, Lin Hongmei not respecting herself tried picking a fight?

    Lin Hongmei lost her mind, still trying to scratch Sun Chan''s face, but everyone stopped her.

    Wang Dan red, "Lin Hongmei, consider that guy so frivolous a treasure! Clearly he''s toyed with you. Now that he''s done, why aren''t you confronting him? Do you dare? Just came here to bully Sun Chan, being tough on the weak!"

    The other girls didn''t speak, but their expressions said it all.

    Sister Du advised, "Enough, enough, he might be busytely, or there''s stuff happening at home. Talk to him; if it doesn''t work out, just let it go; rich folks aren''t easy to join."

    Lin Hongmei realized no one supported her, feeling humiliated, then thought her possible fortune might have slipped away. She grew increasingly upset, ran to her room, sprawled on the bed crying loudly, skipping dinner. She indeed dared not confront him; what if he doesn''t reform one day, she''d be left empty-handed.

    Everyone saw her cry, went over tofort her with a few words, but Wang Dan pursed her lips, thinking she deserved it. She chose the road; she must walk through it kneeling if necessary. Who cares!

    The next day, Sun Chan went to the hospital to check for any temporary caregiver work. Who knew as soon she entered, two women grabbed her, one pulling and hitting her, shouting, "You despicable homewrecker! How could you be so evil? Aren''t you afraid of bad karma?"

    "I don''t know what you''re talking about." Su Chan dodged her punches and kicks.

    The other woman yelled at her, spitting, "You dare act innocent; my big brother''s health copsed under your care! If he dies, could you afford topensate? You clueless fool, killing people without consequences!"

 Chapter 22: Wrongfully Accused

    <h4>Chapter 22 - 22: Wrongfully used</h4>

    Sun Chan frowned and said, "I don''t know anything! What''s going on? Take me over to have a look. If it really has something to do with me, I''ll definitely give you an exnation!"

    "Alright! We''re reasonable people. Come with us and take a look."

    The problemy with the man Sun Chan helped Li Zhaodi take care of yesterday.

    Last night, the man suddenly started vomiting non-stop. Vomitus entered his windpipe, and he nearly died. He was rushed to the operating room for emergency treatment and then to the ICU, and he still hasn''t woken up.

    Li Zhaodi was so scared that she stood outside the door crying.

    The family members grabbed her to ask what happened, and she just said she had been taking good care of him and that nothing would ever happen!

    "Actually, during the day, I went out to send a telegram, and it was Sun Chan who was watching over him."

    That''s why the family was waiting at the hospital entrance to settle the score with Sun Chan.

    It wasn''t just them; Bai Fann also came, watching her with a hint of a smile and saying with schadenfreude, "It must have been that she gave the patient water. Otherwise, such a thing wouldn''t happen. You can''t me Sun Chan, as she doesn''t understand these medicalmon knowledge, being from the vige and barely literate. She surely didn''t do it on purpose."

    It seemed like she was defending her, but in reality, she was harming her.

    Sure enough, the family members started shouting together: "You don''t understand anything, how are you a caregiver? What exactly is going on at your hospital? You wicked girl, are you not afraid of retribution for causing deaths without any remorse?"

    Someone even wanted to hit her, but other patients watching the scene stopped them.

    Ignoring Bai Fann, Sun Chan looked at Li Zhaodi''s red, tearful eyes and walked over, saying, "When I was with him, his surgery had just ended, and he never woke up. Mingming was the one who gave the patient water, why me it on me? You''re new here. I don''t believe Aunt Wang didn''t tell you before caring for patients!"

    Li Zhaodi shivered all over. Indeed, Aunt Wang had told her, but she''d forgotten. Her mind was only preupied with saving up some money in the city and going back to find a good partner to marry. Why would she pay attention to Aunt Wang''s nagging? The patient kept saying he was thirsty; who''d think giving a bit of water would lead to this?

    Now that something so serious had happened, of course, she couldn''t admit it. What if the patient died? Wouldn''t she lose her newly gained job?

    So, Li Zhaodi shouted, "That''s not true! He was already awake! You harmed the patient and are turning the me on me? Sun Chan, my aunt said you were a good person. I didn''t expect you were so good at framing an innocent person, wasting my aunt''s help for you!"

    The crowd buzzed with discussion. Bai Fann said, "That''s not surprising. This woman is always like this. Last time she even hit me, a doctor, but I didn''t mind. But she went straight to the dean toin about me. A typical case of the guilty party taking the lead in using others."

    Sun Chan red over, and Bai Fann lifted her chin, as if to say, "What can you do?"

    "This is too much! You despicable person, if she dies, we''ll hold you ountable!" The family members once again came rushing over, punching and kicking. Sun Chan dodged to the side but still got a few kicks. She gritted her teeth and looked at Li Zhaodi: "How can you be like this? Don''t you have a conscience saying that?"

    Li Zhaodi didn''t take it seriously. After all, she had no background, just a girl from the vige with no parents; at most, she''d get angry��what could she do? So she cried out: "Sun Chan sister, you can''t ruin me like this! It was clearly you who did it!"

    Sun Chan''s heart turned icy cold. She always intended out of goodwill, even spending her own money when she had none, yet she didn''t expect to be bitten back like this. It was a matter of life and death, and Li Zhaodi could lie tantly with open eyes!

    Aunt Wang hurried over, got hold of Li Zhaodi, and asked what''s going on. She didn''t say anything, just kept crying.

    Bai Fann frowned and said, "Sun Chan, you also shouldn''t be heartless. After all, Aunt Wang was the one who introduced you to the job. ming it on Li Zhaodi is simply morally corrupt!"

    Sun Chan calmly said, "I didn''t do it. This is Li Zhaodi framing me. When the patient recovers, they''ll naturally be able to say who really gave him the water."

    Li Zhaodi''s face stiffened and then she continued to cry. Worry seeped into her heart: What if the patient said something?

    Aunt Wang looked at Li Zhaodi and then at Sun Chan, stamping her foot and covering her face in tears: "What is going on!"

    The patient''s family members were also baffled, not knowing who was really responsible.

    Li Zhaodi pushed Aunt Wang away, grabbing Sun Chan by the cor: "It was you! You did it!"

    "Let go of me!" Sun Chan coldly pulled her hand away.

    Li Zhaodi sobbed and shouted: "You''re so wicked, Sun Chan, you''re going to ruin my whole life!"

    Sun Chan saw her turning the tables, snorted coldly, "Ask your conscience, Li Zhaodi!"

    At this moment, someone from the back of the crowd rushed over and pped Li Zhaodi across the face. Her face instantly swelled, almost knocking her unconscious. The person wanted to hit again, but was pulled aside by others��it was Han Dong.

    Han Dong originally came to share good news with Sun Chan that his parents had arranged a job for him at the Hydroelectric Bureau as a clerk. He proposed this request when he returned home yesterday, making his parents so happy since he''d been rebellious for so long and wouldn''t listen. Now he wanted to shape up!

    They immediately made calls overnight to acquaintances and secured the job. Who would have thought he''d encounter such an incident when reporting the good news?

    Han Dong pointed at her nose and said, "Shameless, I was right beside the patient when Sun Chan was looking after him. He wasn''t awake, yet you dare smear her!"

    Aunt Wang helped Li Zhaodi up: "Are you okay, not hurt?" Now she mostly understood; Sun Chan couldn''t have done such a thing, but she couldn''t bring herself to expose Li Zhaodi. Ashamed, Aunt Wang didn''t dare meet Sun Chan''s eyes. Naturally, she didn''t pursue Han Dong hitting Li Zhaodi either.

    Li Zhaodi sniffled and said, "Aunt, it''s alright, as long as Sister Sun Chan can calm down, it doesn''t matter what happens."

    Sun Chan frowned, "What do you mean? Are you saying I had him hit you?"

    "I know I have no connections, but everything I do is with a clear conscience." With her head down, Li Zhaodi wept continuously, appearing utterly aggrieved.

    "This woman isn''t being honest! See how I deal with her!" Han Dong wanted to hit her again.

    Sun Chan stopped him, "Don''t make trouble. You''re not helping by doing this��you''re harming me! A grown man hitting a woman, do you think that''s honorable?"

    Han Dong couldn''t argue with her and pointed at Li Zhaodi, "How can you be so evil, ming your mistake on her? Don''t let me see you, or I''ll hit you every time I do!"

    Bai Fann turned back and said, "Go to the security department and have Sun Chan and this person arrested! Killing a patient and still beating people and making threats��what kind of behavior is this? Sun Chan should be fired immediately! She must not remain in the hospital!"

 Chapter 23: Slap, Slap, Slap

    <h4>Chapter 23: Chapter 23: p, p, p</h4>

    Li Zhaodi felt relieved; having offended Doctor Bai, she had no future in the hospital anyway��being kicked out was inevitable! She��d deal with the aftermathter.

    Someone went out to spread the news.

    Sun Chan stopped him and said to Bai Fann, "Everything needs a basis. Han Dong was wrong to hit someone, and I will make him apologize to Li Zhaodi. But it��s uneptable for her to have almost harmed a patient; I won��t tolerate this false usation."

    "Do you have evidence to prove your innocence?" Bai Fann sneered, "You say it��s not true, and so it��s not? While caring for the patient, there was a man nearby, as he himself admitted, right? If all caregivers were like you, how could patients survive? Who knows what you two did behind everyone��s back; ugh, disgusting!"

    Sun Chan trembled with anger; this woman was actually using such matters to smear her name!

    Before she could speak, Han Dong immediately said, "Darling, you know I like you, so why be so jealous over something so trivial? And you��ve involved Sun Chan too?"

    "What did you say?" Bai Fann shrieked, "Shut up!"

    Han Dong chuckled, "Last time you tried to hook up with me when I sprained my ankle, and now you��re jealous again? Although you like me so much, I can��t date you because I don��t like you. Feelings can��t be forced."

    Everyone around burst outughing. Bai Fann��s face turned pale; she thought she was articte, but faced with someone so shameless, she was at a loss.

    "Sun Chan, I won��t argue with you. Look at how you harmed the patient like this; better hand it to the police for handling!" She said, turning to leave.

    This time, Sun Chan had already figured out the w and coldly said, "Wait a minute! Doctor Bai, being a doctor, you should know, if a cardiac surgery patient was given water, when would such a reaction ur��shouldn��t it be acute? When I looked after this person, it was around eight in the morning. If I truly fed water, how could it be that the symptoms appeared in the middle of the night? Does that match up in time?"

    Bai Fann��s face changed immediately, never expecting Sun Chan to say something so professional.

    Li Zhaodi also didn��t expect Sun Chan to speak like this and raised her head to look at her, half her face swollen from Han Dong��s p.

    Sun Chan continued, "Doctor Bai doesn��t know? Then let��s find another doctor to ask. I don��t believe all doctors are as ignorant and ipetent!"

    Bai Fann raged, "What did you say? You��re just a caregiver; what right do you have to nder me?"

    "How did you nder me just now? Though I��m not as good as you, I still know to do things with a clear conscience. Clearly, you found the problem, but to drive me away, you pretended not to hear. Not letting me find other doctors to testify?"

    Bai Fann gritted her teeth, then suddenly sneered, "Fine! Go find another doctor, see who will help you!"

    She couldn��t believe it; these were all her colleagues, would they really offend her for a caregiver like Sun Chan without reason?

    Han Dong said, "I��ll help you ask. There��s not just one hospital in this world. Our family knows a few experts; we��ll help you find out."

    Bai Fann snorted disdainfully, "Who are you? Just a hooligan, and you im to know doctors?"

    "Auntie, no need to be so harsh. I just disliked your crudeness and won��t date you, no need to insult me like this."

    Bai Fann nearly fainted with anger; what did he call me? Auntie!

    Han Dongughed, "My father is Han Jinshan. Got it now? I��ll immediately tell my mom toe and testify for Sun Chan."

    Bai Fann��s face went through a dramatic change, her heart involuntarily contracted.

    She never expected Sun Chan to be connected to Han Jinshan��s family!

    Their family, renowned nationwide since the Republic of China era, donated all their property and shops to the country during liberation, avoiding catastrophe twenty yearster, and instead skyrocketed, with the patriarch even bing a deputy mayor.

    After the economic reform, Han��s descendants returned to business, establishing themselves as premier entrepreneurs in the provincial city.

    Han Jinshan was a standout in the Han family, connected with people in the provincial city, with rtives linked to the military region.

    Meanwhile, his wife, Tian Jinhua, dubbed the ��First Knife in Surgery,��mands trust; more importantly, the rtionship between the Han and Gu families, if Gu Junming finds out about this...

    While hesitating, Han Dong had already stepped forward, "Whose office phone can I use to call my mom and have her testify for Sun Chan?"

    Bai Fann didn��t know what to do, and by then Han Dong had reached an office door, being held back from entering.

    "Let me go! I need to make a call. Then call the police and see who dares to bully Sun Chan!"

    Seeing Han Dong fight so hard for her, Sun Chan felt inexplicably touched inside; he might seem carefree, but he was helpful at critical moments. Yet, what about Li Zhaodi? Usually wouldn��t raise her voice but dared to harm like this; truly can��t judge a book by its cover.

    By this time, the patient��s family also understood and collectively grasped Li Zhaodi: "Who fed the water?"

    "No, not me!"

    "What kind of person are you! Can��t admit what you did, trying to frame someone else?"

    Aunt Wang was so angry she pped her, "You��re killing me! How could you do such a thing!"

    "Auntie, help me... boohoo..." Li Zhaodi cried incessantly, pleadingly looking at Sun Chan, hinting for her to intercede.

    But Sun Chan looked the other way; she��s no saint, why forgive you for doing such a thing!

    Amidst the ongoing chaos, the surgery room door opened, and everyone rushed over.

    The doctor said, "It��s okay now. Post-op care needs attention, absolutely no water can be given, or there could be severe reactions in a short time."

    The patient sighed in relief, walked inside, and one of the women first bowed in apology to Sun Chan; Aunt Wang, too, apologized to her. Sun Chan smiled.

    "It��s not a big deal, don��t worry about it."

    The family pointed at Li Zhaodi, "You get out! We don��t need you anymore!"

    Li Zhaodi went limp, slumped to the ground, "Will anyone hire me again? What am I to do, Aunt Wang, you must help me!"

    Aunt Wang couldn��t bother with her, went up to Sun Chan, "This whole thing..."

    Sun Chan said, "I��m alright, you take her to find a job elsewhere, I won��t mention it."

    Aunt Wang sighed, pulling Li Zhaodi up.

    Li Zhaodi didn��t look back, hanging her head as she walked away.

    Han Dong, furious, said, "Not even a ��sorry��? I really want to fix her!"

    "Forget it." She pulled Han Dong��s arm, preventing him from going over to hit.

    Bai Fann had long slipped away, having not only failed to drive Sun Chan out, but also embarrassed herself for personal grievances��truly a humiliating scene.

 Chapter 24 Zhao Xiuxia Is Very Distressed

    <h4>Chapter 24: Chapter 24 Zhao Xiuxia Is Very Distressed</h4>

    Bai Fann realized that ever since she met Sun Chan, her luck had never been good! Truly a jinx.

    Everyone dispersed.

    Han Dong then said to Sun Chan, "I��ve found a job."

    "Really? That��s great. Make sure to work hard," Sun Chan said with a smile. "From now on, you should focus on something serious and make the most of your circumstances."

    "Sun Chan!" He hesitated for a moment, then said, "Would you be willing to give me a chance? How about us being together..."

    "We��ll always be friends." Sun Chan patted his shoulder, "Keep it up. No matter what happens, I��ll support you."

    Han Dong looked at her helplessly, knowing that his family��s background was significant and his parents were extraordinary, yet Sun Chan still rejected him. She really was... so different. Looking at her beautiful face, he felt a sudden stir in his heart, but quickly turned his head away.

    Indeed, he didn��te by in the following days; he went to work instead. Although he couldn��t do much at work, his parents were very relieved.

    As for Li Zhaodi, she searched around but couldn��t find a caretaker job. After what happened, no one would hire her, and eventually, she ended up working as a vegetable washer at a daycare.

    ording to Aunt Wang, she worked herself to exhaustion, and her monthly sry was less than thirty yuan. Sheined about being tired every day; it��s unlikely she��llst long.

    Bai Fann asionally saw her at the hospital and red at her harshly; Sun Chan tried to avoid her and avoid speaking with her. It wasn��t because she feared her, but engaging with such people was a pure waste of time. She was very busy and didn��t want any dealings with her.

    Sun Chan was striving diligently, and her life showed some promise. However, Zhao Xiuxia from the vige was in trouble. That day, she came back from the fields in the afternoon, exhausted to the point her legs felt like they would break. She copsed onto the kang bed, unable to get up.

    Zhao Xiuxia was full of regret! Why didn��t she keep an eye on Sun Chan back then? Otherwise, she wouldn��t have to endure this work! Now her daughter was studying outside, the family��s fields needed tending, the pigs needed feeding, the garden needed tidying, and water needed fetching forundry and cooking. Additionally, she had to do the shared mandatorybor in the vige. Not to mention, Zhou Jinzhu harassed her every few days, demanding people in a terribly rude manner.

    And just as she was thinking about it, he showed up, walked in, and addressed Mother-inw, "Sun Chan��s always missing, so how about Sun Lijuan instead? Anyway, I��ve seen what needed to be seen. With Sun Chan gone, just marry her to me."

    Zhao Xiuxia was fuming with rage, suppressing her anger as she said, "Don��t worry; Sun Chan is right in the city. Once we have news, we��ll have her back for the wedding!"

    "I��m eager to have a son, y��know! When will it be? Don��t think you can fool me, old hag!"

    Zhao Xiuxia got up to chase him away, "Even if I don��t mind how you speak to me as your mother-inw, it��s just these few days. Wait a bit; I won��t trick you, okay? We all live in the same vige. How could I deceive you?"

    Zhou Jinzhu cursed and left, while Zhao Xiuxiay back on the kang bed, cursed Sun Chan for a while, and just as she felt a bit sleepy, she heard someone shouting from behind the house, "Zhao Xiuxia, your woodpile is on fire!"

    Through the ss, she could see thick ck smoke billowing, prompting Zhao Xiuxia to shout anxiously for help, then fetched water from the well, and after a long effort, they finally put out the fire; however, the woodpile was mostly burnt.

    No need to ask; it must have been that damned Zhou Jinzhu!

    As she cleaned up the remaining wood, all soaked and tossed aside, entirely unusable, she cursed loudly. Not daring to curse the Zhou Family, she could only curse Sun Chan, "That damned slut, when I find you, I��ll surely kill you! I raised you, and you end up backstabbing me? You��re nothing but a disaster star, a home-wrecker!"

    Just then, two people walked past the outer courtyard. They were Ding Hu and Liu Mei, heading to the supply and marketing cooperative to buy cigarettes, alcohol, and candies for their wedding. Ding Hu originally stood tall, but since being with Liu Mei, he seemed to hunch over; he��d been scolded so much he had no temper left. He was nowpletely controlled by the Liu Family.

    Hearing Zhao Xiuxia cursing Sun Chan, Ding Hu��s face slightly changed.

    Beside him, Liu Mei scrutinized his face, "What��s up, you two are done, yet you still think about her? If you love her, I��ll call off the wedding to amodate you! Let��s see how you get together!"

    "No, I��m just wondering where Sun Chan could have gone. Running away like this is so irresponsible."

    Ding Hu thought Sun Chan was just casually saying she wanted to leave; who would��ve thought she would actually run away? Who knew what she was doing in the city? Everyone said city folks were liberal; she might have lost her virtue already. When Ding Hu thought of Sun Chan��s pure face, he felt it was a waste. Why was he so dumb when they dated, never even held her hand, and now she��s with someone else, while he��s stuck with a woman like this? Whenever he thought of his innocence being ruined by this shrew, he felt distressed.

    Liu Mei snorted, "Ding Hu, let me tell you, drop those twisted thoughts! Don��t even think about Sun Chan, or I won��t give you a single penny of pocket money! I won��t pay a cent towards your family��s debts either." Finishing her words, she sashayed away.

    Ding Hu watched her sturdy figure walk away, angry yet helpless, and could only follow Liu Mei ahead.

    Zhao Xiuxia continued to shout inside the house, "Life can��t go on like this; I must find that damned tramp!"

    Time flew by, and Sun Chan had been working at the hospital for almost a month.

    That day, she was carrying a basin to the ward when she saw Bai Fann, dressed youthfully and morously, walking out. Bai Fann then retreated.

    Two passing young nurses spoke softly, "Doctor Bai looks so pretty today."

    "Yes, it��s her fianc����s grandfather��s birthday; of course, she has to dress up."

    Sun Chan pondered whether it was Gu Lianzhang. Her hand instinctively touched her clothes pocket, but she knew Bai Fann wouldn��t help if she asked to pay back money, so she continued carrying her basin.

    Bai Fann knew that Gu Junming was waiting at the hospital entrance; she dressed up specifically, wearing a ck skirt and white mid-heel leather shoes, with her long hair cascading over her shoulders. No matter the time, Gu Junming always stood there straight, his figure like a towering tree. Bai Fann ran over, her admiration in her eyes unmistakably in.

    "What brings you here?"

    "Your grandpa called the camp to have mee pick you up. Let��s go." Gu Junming maintained his usual gentle attitude, neither too close nor too distant.

    "Really? My grandpa must have a great rtionship with you! He��s actually been in contact?"

    Gu Junming remained silent. During this time, Bai Chuan had been doing whatever he could, probably aware of his impending downfall, attempting to fight onest time. However, Gu Junming acted as if he knew nothing, letting him do as he pleased.

    Gu Junming turned to leave, inadvertantly noticing a young girl supporting an elderly man with a cane, taking a walk in the courtyard.

 Chapter 25: They’ve Come Looking!

    <h4>Chapter 25: Chapter 25: They��ve Come Looking!</h4>

    Gu Junming noticed the dimples on the little girl��s cheeks, and his heart stirred. This girl was paler and more spirited than the first time they met. Her eyes sparkled with vivacious light, unlike the haggard and panic-stricken appearance she had before.

    "What are you looking at?" Bai Fann asked.

    "It��s Sun Chan. Has she been staying here all the time?" Gu Junming looked at her and said.

    Bai Fann couldn��t hide the disdain in her words: "She works here as a caregiver. The hospital��s caregiver market really needs some cleaning up. Is this a job anyone without an education can do?"

    Every time she saw Sun Chan, she wished she could rush over and kick her, hit her, curse her. But thinking of her status, she could only walk past coldly. Last time had already embarrassed her greatly, and the most important was Han Dong; she didn��t want to offend this person.

    Gu Junming slightly furrowed his brows: "I think her care is quite good. Generally, when the elderly fall ill, it��s the family who takes care of them. There��s no requirement for educational qualifications. In this line of work, experience and kindness are most important."

    "Yes, you��re right. Let��s go, otherwise we��ll bete." Bai Fann forced a smile.

    Gu Junming nced at Sun Chan again before striding away.

    Sun Chan didn��t realize Gu Junming was nearby watching her, otherwise she would have returned the money to him. After subtracting the cost of buying groceries and rice for Wang Dan, she already saved over seventy bucks, repaid his hospital fee and still had over thirty bucks left. This was the biggest wealth in two lifetimes.

    Sun Chan returned to the ward, and just as she carried out the basin, she saw two people walking down the corridor. Sun Chan didn��t have time to think much and quickly hid back �� it turned out to be Zhao Xiuxia and Sun Lijuan!

    Sun Chan leaned against the door, panting rapidly. These two hade to the hospital too!

    It turned out that Sun Lijuan couldn��t stay in the city all the time. That day she ran out of money and returned home to get her living expenses. Even though she returned early in the morning, she found Zhou Jinzhu already waiting at the vige entrance. Seeing her return, without a word, he dragged her into the field, intending to make her his wife.

    "You think you can hide? I do nothing every day but wait for you! You��re going to be my wife!"

    Sun Lijuan screamed: "Let go of me, you filthy rogue, I won��t marry you!"

    "Fine, pay up! Or give me Sun Chan, or else you won��t have it easy!" He said as he reached to grab her clothes.

    If it weren��t for some vigers passing by, Zhou Jinzhu would have vited her.

    Her clothes were torn, and there were marks on her neck from his grip. Amid the vigers�� gossip, she cried and ran home, holding her mother and sobbing: "It��s all Sun Chan��s fault! If this continues, I��ll lose my innocence, mom, you have to stand up for me!"

    Zhao Xiuxia was already feeling unwell due to the firewood stack incident, groaning on the bed. Hearing her daughter was assaulted, she sat on the bed crying and cursing. If such a reputation were to spread, what decent family would propose marriage! Zhou Jinzhu had been pestering them for so long; what would happen if this continued?

    But the family had no savings and still had to pay for her daughter��s school fees. Every year around this time, they used to have Sun Chan go harvest wheat and do odd jobs for money, but this year Sun Chan ran away. Who would they send to earn money? They even lost five hundred bucks of wedding money! The more Zhao Xiuxia thought, the more anxious she became. Her daughter kept shaking her arm, demanding she find a way, until she fainted from the stress.

    Sun Lijuan was terrified, quickly took leave and rushed her mother to the hospital for a check-up. Fortunately, it was nothing serious. But remembering Zhou Jinzhu was someone who meant what he said, they both felt anxious and didn��t notice the person who swiftly hid.

    Sun Lijuan walked worrying: "What should we do, mom? Paying him might be the only way. Or else I��ll have to marry him."

    "No way, I don��t believe she only has your twenty-something bucks. Where else could she have hidden it? She��s probably in the city, a countryside dweller can��t hide anywhere special!"

    "Mom, do you think she could have gone to find Wang Dan?"

    Zhao Xiuxia pped her thigh: "You��re right! In our vige, she��s the only one who speaks to that wretch asionally. She��s most likely with her! We��ll go find her, and if she doesn��t hand over the person, I won��t leave!"

    The two of them discussed and walked off.

    Sun Chan had thought of that too. Most likely, they would go looking for Wang Dan for her, so she took leave and headed towards the mall.

    Wang Dan was quite surprised to see her: "What��s wrong? You look exhausted."

    "Nothing, my stepmother will demand you hand me over. Just don��t admit ever seeing me. I won��te to your ce again." Sun Chan wiped the sweat from her forehead and said.

    Wang Dan nodded: "I understand. Don��t worry, I won��t be afraid of those two scumbags!"

    "Then I��m leaving!" Sun Chan quickly turned and ran away.

    Before long, Sun Lijuan and Zhao Xiuxia arrived. As soon as they got upstairs, they cursed and demanded Wang Dan hand over the person: "Our daughter was doing well in the vige and was about to get married. You seduced her out here! If you don��t hand her over today, I won��t be polite!"

    Wang Dan crossed her arms, indifferent to the onlookers�� gossip: "What do you exactly want?"

    Sun Lijuan looked at her indifferently: "You don��t want to lose your job because of some outsider, do you?"

    "Exactly! Not handing her over will mess up your job!" Zhao Xiuxia was a shrew, fearing nothing; she sat on the ground and started wailing: "My good daughter was led astray by you to the city and now she��s missing. Hand her over quickly, or I��ll fight you to the death!"

    Wang Dan had already prepared a response and coldly sneered: "Which eye of yours saw me abduct your daughter? Stop spouting rubbish here, leave quickly, or I��ll call security to detain you for a few days, then you��ll behave! You really think I��m Sun Chan, letting you bully and suppress me? Try bullying me and see if my dad won��t beat you to death!"

    The two saw her so justified and began to doubt, perhaps they really had made a mistake? Wang Dan��s dad was tough, and if her job was lost, their lives wouldn��t be spared.

    Sun Lijuan gritted her teeth and said: "Wang Dan, it��s better to tear down a temple than ruin a marriage. You caused my sister to leave the vige, ruining her good marriage, ruining her life. Don��t you feel guilty?"

    Wang Dan��s finger was almost poking Sun Lijuan��s face: "Bah! You almost sold someone into a pit calling it a good marriage. Shameless! Don��t think I don��t know about Zhou Jinzhu just because I��m in the city. He��s a thorough viin and rogue! For a few hundred bucks of dowry, you want to push a good girl into a hell. Since he��s so good, you should marry him, don��t be embarrassed. After all, he dragged you into the cornfield; who knows if he seeded or not!"

 Chapter 26: Come back with me and get married!

    <h4>Chapter 26: Chapter 26: Come back with me and get married!</h4>

    Sun Lijuan was about to faint; the matter between her and Zhou Jinzhu had even spread to Wang Dan in the city. It seemed that everyone in the vige knew! What should she do!

    Wang Dan continued to curse. She was always bold in speech and deeds, her words sharp and fierce, nearly overwhelming the mother and daughter. Even Zhao Xiuxia could hardly withstand it.

    "Shameless! Trading your daughter for money, I��m embarrassed for you, pfft!"

    "What are you saying? Talking like this before marriage? How thick-skinned of you..."

    "If you can do it, why can��t I say it? We��re all from the same vige, have some face, or don��t make me say nice things! If you have evidence that I was with Sun Chan, produce it. Otherwise, falsely using people as if we��re in the vige, where whoever makes noise gets to be the boss, I��m not easily bullied!"

    "You little brat..."

    "Stop cursing me! I haven��t eaten a grain of your family��s rice. Why should I be cursed by you? Say one more useless word, and I��ll tell my uncles!"

    Wang Dan��s father had seven or eight brothers, each quite unreasonable. If they reallyined, there would be no advantage, and they would have to give up. The two left the mall, deciding to quietly follow and find Sun Chan!

    Just as they were about to leave, someone followed them from behind; it was Lin Hongmei. She had been eavesdropping for a while, and the corners of her mouth lifted in a smile!

    Sure enough, that brat was in trouble, running away from a forced marriage! I knew she wasn��t decent, always eyeing my man with those lustful eyes.

    "Is Sun Chan the person you��re looking for?"

    "Do you know where she is?" The two asked, delighted.

    Lin Hongmei smiled and said, "Of course. I know quite a bit. But, you see, we just got to know each other; I can��t help for nothing, right?"

    Zhao Xiuxia secretly cursed this woman as cunning and handed five yuan to Lin Hongmei. Lin Hongmei took it with a smile without speaking. Zhao Xiuxia gritted her teeth and handed over another five yuan. Only then did Lin Hongmei say, "She did stay for a few days, but she mostly stays in the hospital."

    The two asked curiously, "Hospital?"

    "Yes, she��s working as a caregiver in the hospital. But this has nothing to do with Wang Dan; she imposed herself and was driven away." Lin Hongmei was not foolish. Wang Dan was a tough cookie, her partner from the city, well-off; offending her would mean trouble in the mall. So she didn��t include Wang Dan in the story.

    "That brat actually found a job?" Sun Lijuan wasn��t convinced. This girl hardly went to school, yet she managed this?

    "Yes, she earns quite a bit. I saw her with a small bag the other day, bulging, at least ny yuan."

    Seeing the greedy expressions on the faces of this mother and daughter, Lin Hongmei was delighted. Soon, you��ll be taken back to the countryside for marriage. How can you seduce my man then? Once she��s gone, Han Dong won��t see her, and naturally, he��lle back to me.

    Zhao Xiuxia and Sun Lijuan hurried to the hospital, filled with anger and excitement. Sun Chan actually made money? Great! Take her back to Zhou Jinzhu, and then take all her money!

    "Mom, since she can now earn money, we can��t sell her for just five hundred yuan. We should ask Zhou Jinzhu��s family for more!"

    "Good daughter, why are you so smart? At least eight hundred and eighty! This is a money tree; wait a year and let her marry next year!"

    The two of them schemed for a long time. Sun Lijuan��s heart was delighted. If they had that much money, she could buy a bicycle, a watch, and nice clothes. Her ssmates would envy her then!

    Sun Chan naively thought that by avoiding Wang Dan and being careful at the hospital, everything would be fine. But she didn��t expect to be betrayed by Lin Hongmei.

    She had just finished feeding the patients and was going out to wash lunchboxes when Sun Lijuan and Zhao Xiuxia cornered her.

    Sun Chan wasn��t too surprised to see them, she just smiled, "You found me?" She showed no fear and wasn��t afraid, which shocked Zhao Xiuxia a bit but soon ignited her anger.

    "You little brat, where do you think you can run? Come back with me and get engaged to Zhou Jinzhu! Or I��ll beat you to death!" Zhao Xiuxia stepped up and pped Sun Chan, who grabbed her wrist and forcefully pushed her away. Zhao Xiuxia stumbled back several steps into the wall. She looked at Sun Chan in shock and couldn��t say a word.

    She actually dared to fight back? Back in the vige, she could do whatever she wanted with her.

    Sun Lijuan screamed, "Sun Chan, are you crazy? How dare you hit your mom? Are you that inhuman?"

    In the days apart, Sun Chan had be fairer and more radiant. Although her clothes were shabby, she was still beautiful, especially her skin, extremely white. Yet she herself, having never done farm work, still had rough skin. How could she not be driven to jealousy? She nearly wanted to rush over and scratch her face!

    Sun Chan said coldly, "Did she ever treat me like a daughter? How dare she me me? Knowing what kind of beast Zhou Jinzhu is, wanting to marry me off, that��s not something a person would do. I will never agree."

    Zhao Xiuxia put her hands on her hips and sneered, "Heh, does it matter if you agree? I raised you, you have to listen to me. You��re just a bastard from who knows where; it��s enough that I supported you! And now you��re being picky?"

    Sun Chan was unusually calm, "You raised me just to sell me?"

    "So what if I did? me your bad luck, a bastard by the well. If I knew you were so ungrateful, I should have drowned you as a baby! Now that you��re alive and even making money, you want to run when it��s time to be filial to me? Dream on!"

    Everyone around frowned. This woman��s words were too harsh.

    Sun Chan��s heart was long numb. She had no sorrow at all, just looked calmly at her foster mother.

    "I won��t go back. I��ve been working since I was three or four, like a ve for you all these years, without a proper meal. The grain I grew could have long repaid your so-called upbringing. Even if you kill me, I won��t go back! And I have no money for you!"

    "If you don��t listen, I��ll beat you to death now!" Zhao Xiuxia lunged and started hitting and kicking Sun Chan. It wasn��t something she hadn��t done in the vige, she was quite familiar.

    Sun Chan looked at the growing crowd, offering no resistance, enduring the beating with unusual calmness. Her face and body were covered in bruises, her face swollen.

    The more Zhao Xiuxia thought, the angrier she became, "Bitch! Brat! If not for you, would your sister have almost been taken advantage of by Zhou Jinzhu?"

    "You��re the ones willing to marry into a thug��s family. How is it my fault!"

 Chapter 27 Resistance

    <h4>Chapter 27: Chapter 27 Resistance</h4>

    Zhao Xiuxia cursed and hit, treating Sun Chan like a ve. Many people couldn��t bear to watch. Everyone pointed fingers. Initially, Sun Lijuan was quite happy to see her getting hit, but gradually she noticed the way people were looking at her wasn��t right, so she quickly tugged at her mother��s sleeve.

    Zhao Xiuxia panted, cursing with the harshest words, while Sun Chan remained expressionless, wiping the blood from the corner of her mouth.

    "You��ve hit and cursed me, the money from the grain I earned for working for you is enough topensate. You��ve meddled in my and Ding Hu��s marriage, so I don��t owe you anything. Making me marry a worthless guy, not possible. From today on, you��re not my mother."

    "Delusional! You can never repay the kindness of raising you in a lifetime! Bring the money you earned quickly. Do you know how much we��ve lost because Zhou Jinzhues to cause trouble daily?"

    Sun Chan sneered, "Take me to court, however, it��s ruled, I��ll pay you ordingly. I won��t give you a penny more. You also have a daughter, aren��t you afraid of retribution for treating me this way?"

    The surrounding people were also discussing: "How can you do this, woman! The girl is so young, yet you treat her like an animal!"

    "Exactly! You��re a human, you can��t even treat an animal like that, can you? Ruining her marriage anding here with such audacity to force her to marry!"

    "I can control whoever I raise, even if I beat her to death, it��s my choice!" Zhao Xiuxia shouted.

    Sun Chan smiled, "Go ahead and beat me to death, but you��d still have to pay for it with your life. But having a mother who��s a murderer, what kind of person could Sun Lijuan marry in the future?"

    Sun Lijuan��s face turned ugly, she��s educated and understood Sun Chan was right; this little wench is sly!

    She pulled Zhao Xiuxia, then looked at Sun Chan, "No matter what grievances, you��re still a Sun,e back with us quickly, don��t make Unclee over, it won��t be as simple then."

    Zhao Xiuxia cursed, "Stop wasting words with her. Since I raised her, she should look after me in my old age, where can she run! Lijuan, help me catch her!" She grabbed Sun Chan, trying to drag her down the hallway.

    Sun Chan struggled, unwilling to go, Sun Lijuan got anxious, "Do you really want to drive mom to something unfortunate?" She came up, intending to hit her.

    But just as Sun Lijuan approached, Sun Chan suddenly lifted a foot and kicked her right in the stomach.

    Sun Lijuan never expected that the sister who��d always endured everything at home would dare to hit her; the kicknded solidly, making her let out a gasp and sit on the ground. Then before she could react, Sun Chan pped her hard a few times, making Sun Lijuan��s face swell.

    Sun Lijuan screamed in a mix of shock and anger, "You bitch! I��m your sister, you dare hit me? I��ll kill you right now!"

    Zhao Xiuxia also rushed to hit, but was stopped by the crowd.

    Sun Chan grabbed Sun Lijuan��s head and mmed it against the wall, at first, Sun Lijuan struggled but eventually could only endure it passively. Her forehead started bleeding, her eyes rolling back from the pain.

    Zhao Xiuxia shouted, "Daughter, you beast, how dare you hit my daughter!"

    Sun Chan grabbed Sun Lijuan and flung her aside. The mother and daughter crashed into each other, copsing to the ground. Before Sun Lijuan could start cursing, Sun Chan rushed over and furiously grabbed her hair, pping her repeatedly, venting all the resentment from her past life and the anger from now onto Sun Lijuan.

    Sun Lijuan was utterly defenseless, tears of pain streaming down as she cursed, "You bitch, I��ll kill you, you little beast..."

    "Whether I like it or not, no matter why my foster mother raised me or how terribly she treated me, I ate her family��s food. Even if I lived like a ve, I always owed her. She can hit me, but who are you to bully me? I��ve never received your kindness. From now on, if she hits me, I��ll hit you. You won��t bully me. Otherwise, even if I die, I��ll drag you down with me!"

    Zhao Xiuxia and Sun Lijuan were both dumbfounded. How did this dead girl be like this?

    Sun Lijuan wanted to curse again, but seeing the cold look in Sun Chan��s eyes, as if she really would kill her, didn��t dare speak.

    Zhao Xiuxia reached out to pull Sun Chan��s arm, trying to drag her outside, but Sun Chan struggled, refusing to go. She kicked Sun Lijuan again, leaving her squatting on the ground.

    "You dead girl!" Zhao Xiuxia clutched her heart in pain, hitting Sun Chan thoughtlessly.

    Aunt Wang couldn��t help rushing over, holding her back: "Sister-inw, it��s not old society now, you can��t just hit and kill your children, try killing one? Truly shameless, you��re not her pimp, to raise her up just to sell her?"

    "Exactly, your own daughter is raised plump and healthy. The foster daughter is skinny as a stick and you want to sell her, what kind of person are you!"

    "Ugh! Get lost! Our family affairs have nothing to do with you!"

    The crowd was full of sympathy for Sun Chan and had nothing good to say about Zhao Xiuxia and Sun Lijuan.

    Sun Lijuan and Zhao Xiuxia wanted to quickly drag her away, Sun Chan pressed her lips, hitting Sun Lijuan with force.

    Zhao Xiuxia pulled at Sun Chan, "If you don��te with us, we��ll stay here every day, don��t think about having peace!"

    Sun Chanughed coldly, refusing to speak. What��s there to worry about? She��s just a caretaker, it��s not a formal job, anywhere will have a meal for her.

    Sun Lijuan, rescued by her mother, face covered in bruises, blood at the corner of her mouth, hair pulled out in tufts and thrown on the ground, felt like her body was falling apart, dared not approach Sun Chan again. This woman went to the city and got smart, and the hatred in her eyes is quite obvious, she can��t be allowed to get stronger, or she��ll surely retaliate.

    At this time, the hospital security came over: "What��s with all the noise? Keep it up and we��ll arrest everyone!"

    Aunt Wang shouted, "They��re trying to catch the daughter and sell her here!"

    But the person impatiently waved it off: "Hurry and leave, we don��t care what your issue is, figure it out yourselves, don��t disturb the patients at the hospital!"

    Every day there��s trouble at the hospital, daily headaches dealing with this, who has time to manage this mess.

    "Did you hear that, you bitch, hurry up ande with us!" Zhao Xiuxia went to grab Sun Chan again.

    Sun Chan dodged: "I��m not going. I have patients to care for, you two hurry and leave, stop getting in the way here."

    "You bastard..."

    "Mom. Let��s go!" Sun Lijuan is a vocational school graduate, if they get arrested causing trouble at the hospital, it��s not going to look good for her back at school, and she still wants to marry into a good city family. So she dragged her mother outside, before she left, gave Sun Chan a re: "Don��t think about escaping!"

 Chapter 28 Sun Chan’s Revenge

    <h4>Chapter 28: Chapter 28 Sun Chan��s Revenge</h4>

    Sun Lijuan dragged her cursing mother away, escorted by security.

    The two went out and immediately called the vigemittee of the neighboring vige, urging her uncle toe quickly. They waited in the hospital courtyard, refusing to believe she would leave without a confrontation.

    The crowdforted Sun Chan for a while before dispersing. Aunt Wang checked her injuries: "Are you okay?"

    "Auntie, I��m fine, don��t worry." Sun Chan smiled at her.

    At that moment, the family members of the person Sun Chan was taking care of came over and gave her several days�� worth of wages, even handed her an extra ten yuan.

    "Youngdy, we can��t employ you anymore, you should leave quickly, otherwise there will be trouble. You are able-bodied and hardworking, even if you go to another city, you can make a living there."

    Sun Chan knew she meant well, thanked her while taking the money, and her eyes reddened.

    Aunt Wang was also distressed, such a pitiful child, she escorted Sun Chan out of the hospital: "Don��t leave through the front gate, those two must be waiting there. Go through the fence at the back. There��s a missing piece, so you can go through there, don��t let them catch you."

    Sun Chan wiped away her tears: "Thank you, Auntie!"

    "No need for thanks, dear. You��re such a good kid, but life isn��t fair to you." Aunt Wang touched her hair.

    Sun Chan smiled: "I��m okay, it��ll get better." She took a few steps away and said to Aunt Wang, "I want to ask you a favor. If you can, could you go to the First Department Store and tell a friend of mine that I��ve left? Her name is Wang Dan, she sells scarves on the second floor."

    Aunt Wang sighed: "Alright. I understand, you go on."

    Sun Chan originally thought she could earn more money here, but who would��ve thought they would find her so quickly. She couldn��t stay here and left through the back of the hospital.

    Sun Lijuan and Zhao Xiuxia waited outside, scrutinizing everyone who came out.

    Before long, Zhao Xiuxia��s family members arrived. Two brothers came but didn��t stay outside guarding; they went directly into the ward looking for her. Asking around, they found she had already escaped and immediately started cursing angrily.

    Returning to Zhao Xiuxia, they told her, and she shouted furiously: "That wretched girl! She��s definitely gone to find Wang Dan again! Go find her!"

    But this time, they miscalcted. Sun Chan wasn��t there at all. They even followed Wang Dan to her home but didn��t see any trace of Sun Chan. They asked Lin Hongmei, who betrayed them, but she hadn��t returned at all.

    "What? You didn��t catch her?" Lin Hongmei was surprised.

    "Don��t mention it! We had caught her, but she managed to escape!"

    Lin Hongmei pursed her lips, what idiots. But since she had escaped, Han Dong wouldn��t seed, which was good news.

    Zhao Xiuxia was furious, and Sun Lijuan��s face twisted even more, it was infuriating. What to do now!

    Although her brothers from her parental home hade, they could only bully Sun Chan; Wang Dan wasn��t someone easily bullied. Just thinking about her father��s axe - when it came to thend dispute, he dared to threaten even the vige chief. They had to give up, returning to the vige together.

    Zhao Xiuxia��s older brother sat on the kang, puffing on his pipe: "Sister, I��m telling you, you handled this really foolishly. How could you let her leave? In a hospital this big, she just slipped away. Should��ve dragged her away at once, after all, it��s a family matter, who��s gonna intervene?"

    Zhao Xiuxia burned with anxiety: "I was worried about the impact on Lijuan! Who knew that wretched girl would be so cunning now! Brother, what do we do now? Zhou Jinzhu won��t let our family off easily."

    "We have no choice, we mustpensate Zhou Jinzhu��s family with money."

    Sun Lijuan protested first: "Uncle, no way! Why should wepensate him?"

    "What else can we do? Zhou Jinzhu is a thug, you can��t mess with him. We can��t watch over you every day; what if he bullies you? Otherwise, we��ll help you find someone to marry, then you won��t have to worry anymore. There are a few good young men in our vige."

    Sun Lijuan didn��t want it; she wanted to marry into the city, preferably bing an official��s wife. Why should she marry a viger? Zhao Xiuxia was both angry and regretful, they shouldn��t have left. She cried in frustration.

    Zhao Xiuxia couldn��t bear her daughter marrying a viger either. After all, they had worked hard to get her through technical school; she could get a job in the future. Why marry a farmer?

    But for now, they couldn��t find Sun Chan and had no other options. After discussion, they gave the Zhou Family fifty yuan inpensation and called in the vige chief to mediate, settling the matter.

    Zhao Xiuxia watched Zhou Jinzhu leave and said: "We��vepensated you. Don��t harass my daughter again, or I��ll haunt you even in death!"

    Zhou Jinzhu spat on the ground: "It was you who insisted on marrying into our family. I reluctantly agreed, with how ugly Sun Lijuan is, I��d be embarrassed to have her even as a footwash maid, ugh!"

    The mother and daughter red in outrage, furious with Sun Chan, waiting for the chance to teach her a lesson!

    "Mom, when we find her, let��s sell her to an even worse family!"

    "Right, didn��t the surrounding mountains have families with several bachelors? I��ll marry her off there without epting money, just to ruin her life!"

    The two women cursed Sun Chan through gritted teeth, but without seeing her, their venom was useless.

    Meanwhile, Sun Chan had reached Sun Lijuan��s school.

    She couldn��t let those two torment her for nothing. Why should they force her to leave her home while they lived so well?

    The vocational school Sun Lijuan went to was quite mediocre. Her grades were too poor, she had repeated several years and barely scraped through. However, the school��s leadership had strong political awareness, and when they heard Sun Chan was there to report something, they immediately brought her in.

    After entering the hospital, a patient��s family had given her a few sets of clothes, and she also went with Aunt Wang to the nearby morning market to buy some. Though not very stylish, she no longer attracted undue attention. But this time, she wore clothes she��d brought from the vige, ones she wore while caring for patients, tattered with patches, her hair disheveled, and bruises from her mother��s beatings visible. Although she hadn��t looked in the mirror, she knew the impression she left.

    Once inside, she began to cry andin, starting with how Sun Lijuan and her mother Zhao Xiuxia exploited her at home like a servant, even wanting to sell her to local thugs for money. They would beat her if she didn��tply, and hinder her employment opportunities.

    The principal��s brow furrowed in shock.

    Sun Chan continued to cry: "I fled from home, wanting to support myself by working as a nurse aide, but they chased me to the hospital, beating and cursing me, wanting to marry me off to hooligans for a bride price! Leader, please seek justice for me! My sister is an educated person; how could she do such things! Just for her to eat well and dress nicely, they��re sacrificing my entire future!"

 Chapter 29 Resistance

    <h4>Chapter 29: Chapter 29 Resistance</h4>

    The principal, upon hearing this, angrily mmed the table: "At this time and age, is there still such feudal dross! This unhealthy trend must be curbed!"

    The teacher of Sun Lijuan was called over, and upon hearing this, he was stunned. Since when did Sun Lijuan have a sister?

    Sun Lijuan never considered Sun Chan as family. She told outsiders that she was the only child in her family, an only daughter. This was rare in the 1980s. Many people envied her. She was proud, dressed well, ate well, and had good social skills, and was very popr in her ss. Some of the boys in the city, seeing that although her family was from the countryside, the burden was rtively light and the family was well off, thought they might try to make a move since she could be assigned a good job after attending vocational school.

    Who would have thought that Sun Lijuan had such a malicious side!

    After Sun Chan finished telling the story, she didn��t care about the consequences. She bowed to the principal and teacher, then got on the train, heading to the neighboring X City.

    Although she hadn��t left the vige in her previous life, she had heard from others in the vige about how prosperous the economy was over there, with many people working hard for a living. Although it wasn��t apparent now, within ten years, it could develop into a veryrge city.

    In this lifetime, Sun Chan was unrestrained; she was going out to explore!

    Moreover, her wallet still had nearly a hundred dors which could temporarily keep her from starving. She felt secure, and thus was at ease on the train.

    At this time, Bai Fann had already gone to the Gu Family with Gu Junming. She didn��t know about Sun Chan��s affair. If she had been there, knowing she was driven away, she probably would have pped her hands in delight.

    The two bought some gifts on the street. Gu Junming didn��t like doing these formalities, but Bai Fann insisted, saying it was a gesture for grandpa, so Gu Junming agreed. He insisted on using his own money and not hers.

    Along the way, it was Bai Fann who was talking andughing, while Gu Junming only asionally responded with a few words. However, she didn��t seem to realize and continued smiling brightly.

    The Gu Family lived in a bigpound in the city, and the living environment was even better than that of the Bai Family.

    Gu Junming��s grandfather, Gu Dongfang, had joined the revolution at about eleven or twelve years old. Now, he was retired and at home but still spirited. He didn��t have any formal celebrations for his birthday, celebrating quietly at home with family.

    When the two arrived, Gu Dongfang��s daughter-inw, Wang Guihua, was in the kitchen cooking with the maid.

    Hearing Bai Fann��s voice, Wang Guihua hurriedly went out to greet her, holding Bai Fann by one hand. She enthusiastically smiled and said: "Lan is here? Haven��t seen you for so long, you��ve be even more beautiful!"

    "Hello auntie!"

    "Hello, you came with my Mingzi? That��s wonderful." Wang Guihua smiled warmly and patted Bai Fann��s face, the satisfaction on her face visible to everyone present. She was Gu Zishan��s second wife but was very warm towards Gu Junming, letting him sit on the sofa and pouring him tea.

    Gu Junming politely greeted Wang Guihua: "Auntie, where��s my grandpa?"

    "In the study discussing things with your dad. Old Master Bai is also here," Wang Guihua said with a smile.

    Bai Fann blushed slightly and looked shyly at Gu Junming.

    Gu Junming remained unmoved, turned and walked towards the study: "Then I��ll go and see him."

    "Junming, let��s go together, I��ll greet grandpa," Bai Fann said with a smile.

    "Never mind, you can chat with my aunt. We��ll meet again at dinner." Gu Junming didn��t stop walking and went straight in.

    Wang Guihua pretended not to notice Bai Fann��s disappointment, smiled, and pulled Bai Fann into the kitchen: "Come, let��s cook together. We women don��t understand men��s business, no need to bother with it."

    Bai Fannughed: "I��m not good at cooking. Don��t me me."

    "How could I? We��ll all have to get used to your taste in the future, so get some practice in first!"

    One sentence made Bai Fann��s face turn red. She smiled with pursed lips and followed her into the kitchen. Since there was a cook, the two only did some basic tasks, like picking vegetables and peeling onions. Even if Bai Fann were to do it, she wouldn��t be able to.

    Wang Guihua constantly praised Bai Fann for being sensible: "Junming is lucky. If my son could have such a wife in the future, that would be great."

    Bai Fann pretended not to understand and smiled: "Brother Juntao is also twenty-two already, he hasn��t thought of finding a partner?"

    "Him, he just joined the military. He says family shoulde after career. He doesn��t even consider marriage, and doesn��t let me worry. I think he��s right, he��s steady, and his future partner won��t be bad."

    "Yes, Brother Juntao is a very meticulous person," Bai Fann agreed with a smile, but in her heart, she didn��t think much of it. Gu Juntao was the son of Wang Guihua and Gu Zishan. Unlike Gu Junming, who left home young, he was overly coddled by his parents. Aplete mama��s boy, he waszy, had no ambitions in life, and was somewhat overweight, looking nothing like a young man anymore; he was very average.

    However, he was obedient, and Bai Chuan had once thought of marrying his granddaughter to him. After all, marrying into the Gu Family was beneficial. Gu Junming was too challenging to control. Gu Juntao was a better option.

    Bai Fann firmly opposed: "Grandpa, he��s several years younger than me! Besides, if it weren��t for the old master��s connections, Gu Juntao might not even pass his physical exam. Such a person won��t have any prospects. I would never marry him, even if I died."

    Seeing her attitude, Bai Chuan dropped the idea.

    Wang Guihua, of course, knew what her son was like. Fortunately, she only hoped he would take a civil post, and transitioning to a government office in the future would be good enough.

    The atmosphere between the two women was harmonious, but in the study, it was tense with undercurrents.

    Gu Junming walked in to find his grandfather and father seated formally. On one side was Bai Chuan, and all three were looking at him seriously. He then smiled slightly.

    "What��s this? Are you going to examine me?"

    "Junming, have a seat," Gu Dongfang pointed to the seat in front of him, getting straight to the point: "I heard you applied for this mission?"

    Gu Junming sat down and nodded: "Yes, why, doesn��t grandpa want me to go?"

    Gu Zishan on the side said: "It��s not that we don��t want you to go. It��s just that we heard this time candidates are all above battalion level. As apanymander, if you go, people might not see it as bravery but as ambition, doing whatever it takes for promotion, which might not be good for you. Your grandfather and I don��t want you leaving such an impression. We��ve never used family connections for your matters, and such gossip wouldn��t please anyone."

    "Father thinks I might ruin your reputation?"

    "You... how can you say that? When did I ever say such a thing!"

 Chapter 30: Refusing Marriage

    <h4>Chapter 30: Chapter 30: Refusing Marriage</h4>

    "Grandpa, is that what you think too?" Gu Junming ignored him and looked directly at the old man.

    Gu Dongfang didn��t speak, but his eyes showed the same attitude as Gu Zishan��s.

    Gu Junming looked at Bai Chuan, "Chairman Bai truly cares about my affairs, I am very grateful." His tone was very sarcastic. Over the years, Bai Chuan��s suppression of him was something he was well aware of, he wasn��t a fool. This time, Bai Chuan probably came to use the birthday celebration as an excuse to cancel his spot abroad.

    "This has nothing to do with me, I��m just an outsider here for the birthday feast." Bai Chuan hurriedly waved his hand with a smile, "But Junming, recklessness for credit is undesirable, you��re too conspicuous, which isn��t good. Why not take it slow?"

    Gu Junming��s expression was calm, and he said indifferently, "A soldier who doesn��t want to be a general is not a good soldier. I am willing to contribute my blood and passion for my country. I��m about to turn twenty-six, and if I don��t work hard this time, I might face transfer by the end of the year. I don��t want to take off my uniform. I hope grandpa and father understand."

    The Gu Family father and son didn��t say anything for a moment, they had been soldiers all their lives, of course, they couldn��t let their son change professions.

    Only Bai Shan frowned slightly, "You don��t have to do this necessarily. Actually, there is a civilian position in my artillery regiment, your qualifications and abilities are enough for it..."

    "No! Chairman Bai, I appreciate your kindness. I don��t like working in civilian positions, nor do I fear bleeding and sacrifices. I��m a soldier, I can��t just think about my own interests and let others make sacrifices while I live afortable life, that��s not what a soldier should do. This time, I was normally admitted through examinations, the selection was fair and just, there wasn��t any backdoor dealings, so there won��t be any gossip. I hope the chairman can rest assured. I will do my utmost toplete my mission!" He saluted Bai Shan.

    Gu Dongfang nodded in satisfaction, "Good! Truly worthy of being one of us Gu Family! When I first heard about it, I worried you were taking extremes just for promotion, I misunderstood you. You must work hard and shine for the collective, fearless of sacrifices."

    Gu Junming stood up and saluted, "Yes, I will do my best, don��t worry grandpa!"

    Gu Zishan didn��t speak either, feeling his son��s words about sacrificing others�� interests were somehow alluding to his own past actions, his face faintly flushed. Bai Chuan saw the father and son were swayed by Gu Junming��s few words, knowing it was pointless to say more, he could only let it go. Although he was smiling, he cursed inwardly, what stubborn and foul stone in thetrine pit! Hopefully, this time fails, so you can taste the harshness of reality.

    Gu Junming naturally noticed Bai Chuan��s expression, his face unchanged, wearing a calm expression.

    At this moment, Wang Guihua knocked on the door, "Dinner��s ready, Jun Tao is back too."

    "Great! It��s rare to have the whole family together." Gu Dongfang, being older, naturally liked the feeling of being surrounded by people.

    Gu Junming maintained a calm demeanor, it was hard to discern his feelings towards this younger brother.

    The table in the dining room was filled with dishes, with an old man��s favorite braised fish in the center.

    When they arrived, Bai Fann was setting the table with the help of the nanny, and Gu Juntao was pouring wine into each cup. Gu Junming raised his eyebrows, he hadn��t seen this brother for months, yet he��d gained a lot of weight, seemed his meals were notcking.

    Upon seeing them approaching, Bai Fann greeted sweetly, "Happy birthday, grandpa!"

    "Good! Lan is very virtuous." Gu Dongfang sat down with a cheerful smile.

    Gu Juntao greeted his brother, exchanging a few words about army affairs, neither too far nor too close, and then everyone was seated.

    The men at the table weren��t much for talking, fortunately, Wang Guihua and Bai Fann were chatting to liven up the atmosphere, preventing awkward silences.

    Wang Guihua suddenlyughed, "Junming. Is it time to think about settling down now?"

    Bai Fann��s hand holding the chopsticks tightened, she sneakily nced in Gu Junming��s direction.

    Gu Junming chuckled, "My marriage matters are not urgent for now, you don��t need to worry."

    "How can it not be urgent? Twenty-five is old for a young man, isn��t it?" Bai Chuanughed, "Us old folks are all waiting to attend you young people��s weddings."

    After he spoke, everyoneughed.

    Bai Fann felt grandpa was being too obvious, her face flushed. She shyly nced at Gu Junming.

    Gu Junmingughed, "I��d rather have achievements at work before considering this. Why not have Bai Fann��s wedding first? She��s the same age as me, a prime age, her work is good too. I��m sure there��ll be suitable young talents for her."

    Gu Junming actually drew a clear line with her directly at the table, speaking so inly and ruthlessly that everyone was taken aback.

    Moreover, Bai Chuan said he was considered old at twenty-five, and he mentioned Bai Fann��s age too, that��s a p in the face, isn��t it? Wang Guihua didn��t show it but thought Gu Junming��s words were quite venomous.

    Gu Dongfang didn��t know about these underlying currents, only regretted missing out on marrying Bai Fann, but it wasn��t a big deal. Just like himself, future partners would be his parents�� concerns, no need to worry.

    Bai Chuan suppressed his inner resentment,ughing as he said, "Back in the day, we didn��t dy marriage even during revolution, but nowadays, the young men and women aren��t in a rush."

    "Exactly. The children have grown up, can��t do much about it." Gu Dongfang said regretfully, "Seems we��ll have to wait a while longer for great-grandchildren."

    Bai Chuan smiled faintly, but inwardly a fire was zing. His old face was hard to maintain.

    Gu Juntaoughed, "Brother, I thought you were often together... is it really not?"

    "Absolutely not." Gu Junming lowered his head, picking food for grandpa, "I am just a soldier, Fann is a top student at the military medical university, we differ greatly. Such rumors are too excessive, I will investigate them when I go back."

    Wang Guihua furrowed her eyebrows lightly, being just a stepmother, it wasn��t appropriate for her to speak, nor could shefort Bai Fann, after all, it hadn��t been mentioned that Bai Fann liked Gu Junming.

    Bai Fann��s face turned pale, but she quickly smiled and said, "Indeed, I want to find a good partner too, with all these rumors, who dares to pursue me?"

    Wang Guihuaughed, "Now people are idle, have some fish." She picked food for Bai Fann.

    Bai Fann ate, but the food tasted like wax, Gu Junming��s words felt like a big p on her face, all along, everyone thought they were going to be together. She believed that despite Gu Junming��s coldness, it might be due to his character, who would��ve thought he truly didn��t like her!

 Chapter 31 Unwilling

    <h4>Chapter 31: Chapter 31 Unwilling</h4>

    Mingming knows Gu Junming has no feelings for her, yet she shamelessly tags along to attend his grandfather��s birthday party. If people found out, they would surelyugh at her! She held back her tears several times.

    Bai Chuan was also suppressing his anger, his fists tightly clenched under the table. This brat dared to humiliate the Bai Family like this! His several attempts to form an alliance were rejected by Gu Junming, and he couldn��t even secure a marriage for his granddaughter. Bai Chuan haspletely given up on Gu Junming.

    Because of this incident, Bai Fann stopped speaking. Except for Gu Juntao, everyone else knew about Bai Fann��s feelings for Gu Junming, but Gu Junmingid it bare without a trace of subtleness, making things awkward and the atmosphere palpably tense.

    After eating for a while, Gu Junming put down his chopsticks and stood up, "Grandfather, I need to head back to X City. I only took a six-hour leave this time, so I have to go now."

    "Alright, your work is important. Go ahead."

    Gu Junming bid everyone a simple farewell and then left.

    Bai Chuan also sat for a little longer before directly taking his leave, and naturally, the Gu Family warmly saw him off.

    Once everyone had departed, Gu Dongfang returned to her room to rest.

    Wang Guihua had the maid clean up the table, sighed, and said, "Even if he doesn��t like her, he shouldn��t reject her like this. A girl��s self-esteem gets hurt!"

    Gu Zishan said nothing. He personally preferred to maintain closer ties with the Bai Family, but since his son didn��t like it, he couldn��t force him. His son had already been quite wronged over the years, so how could he force him into anything?

    Gu Juntao said, "Mom, Sister Lan doesn��t like my brother. Didn��t she say they were just friends? Why are you worried?"

    "Go, go, what business is it of yours?"

    Gu Juntao didn��t mind and happily went upstairs.

    Wang Guihuained to Gu Zishan again, "I��m just the stepmother, so it��s hard to say anything, but when you have time, talk to your son. With a personality like his, he��ll suffer in the army. Offending the Bai Family like this, what future can there be?"

    Gu Zishan replied unhappily, "If he doesn��t like her, he shouldn��t be forced to be together. Do you think the only way to seed is to rely on the Bai Family? Are you looking down on me or my son?"

    "That��s not what I meant, I wasn��t..."

    "You don��t understand military matters, so don��t ask! I only spoke to him because I listened to you, and then my son mocked me. When have we ever raised someone in the Gu Family who is afraid to face life and death?"

    Wang Guihua realized her husband was upset and kept quiet. Although she came from a high-ranking family, her parents didn��t really raise her, and once married, she wasn��t aware of the rtedplexities.

    Bai Fann started crying again on the road. She really didn��t know how to face Gu Junming and the Gu Family in the future. She couldn��t believe Gu Junming could be so heartless!

    "Enough!" Bai Chuan frowned and said, "Now, everything Grandfather can do for you has been done, and you know Gu Junming��s intentions. This brat didn��t reject your arrival to their house because he wanted to refuse you face-to-face. If you keep entangling him, the Bai Family would be aughingstock! You��re not allowed to go find Gu Junming anymore!"

    "But Grandfather, why... why doesn��t he like me? What��s wrong with me?" Bai Fann sobbed more intensely, feeling more and more wronged.

    From childhood, everyone said she was smart and beautiful and came from a noble background. Even though her parents were deceased, they sacrificed for the country, making them a family to be admired. Why did Gu Junming reject her so coldly?

    Bai Chuan knew the primary reason Gu Junming rejected Bai Fann was that he didn��t want any involvement and that the two could never stand on the same side. But he couldn��t say that to his granddaughter, so he just patted her shoulder and said, "Alright, I will find someone for you to date and get married soon. I will definitely find someone better and with a higher position than Gu Junming."

    "No! I can��t give up like this. How will my colleagues and friends see me? I won��t give up!" Bai Fann cried more loudly, her unwillingness overshadowing her sadness.

    Bai Chuan slightly frowned, feeling his granddaughter was spoiled and a bit unreasonable! But he knew anything he said now would fall on deaf ears, so he didn��t argue with her, deciding to let time cool things down first.

    Sun Chan, after hours of bumpy travel, finally got off the bus and looked at therge city X City in front of her, feeling a bit lost. The city was muchrger than the town she lived in before. Although it was only the 1980s, there were already many tall buildings, the streets were wide, and various small cars were driving around.

    Unfamiliar with everything here, Sun Chan didn��t dare to wander around. She first found a guesthouse to stay.

    She asked for the cheapest room, then went out to find work.

    She went to several hospitals to ask if they needed caregivers. But she hit walls everywhere.

    No one knew her, and she was young, so no one trusted her.

    Sun Chan, unfamiliar with the paths, managed to visit only four or five hospitals before it turned dark. She bought a bun and returned to the guesthouse, eating while pondering what to do next. Though tired, she didn��t feel bitterness or grievance; as long as she didn��t have to marry a man she didn��t like, no matter what, she could manage.

    While lost in thought, loud quarrels and fights erupted from the opposite room, creating chaos.

    Sun Chan couldn��t help but listen because it was too close. Lying on the bed, she heard voices talking about a man fooling around and being caught by his pregnant wife, who was causing a scene.

    "Wang Dabao, I��m carrying your child now, and you dare to treat me like this? You know how life was in your family before! As soon as life got a little better, you started acting like this. What did I ever do to you? You have no conscience!"

    Everyone was chatting, and some were advising the woman to have an open mind.

    "Guihua, I was wrong, please stop crying; it��s bad for your health." The man was almost crying.

    "Now you care about me? Then why did you do it!" The woman cried, "The two of us have endured so many hardships together and couldn��t even have a full meal. With my family��s help, I started a small business, and just as we saw a bit of hope, you cheated. Can you justify this? Can you justify it to the child I��m carrying?!"

    A man said awkwardly, "Guihua, please calm down. I was wrong. I really was. Let��s go home and talk about it."

    "Step aside, I want to find that fox spirit and ask her properly. Who gave her the audacity! I took her in, gave her work, and paid her, yet she dared to take someone else��s man! Let me go beat her!"

    More sounds of quarrels followed, and another girl said, "You really misunderstood, sister-inw, there��s nothing between me and him! Please let me go!"

 Chapter 32: Saving Lives

    <h4>Chapter 32: Chapter 32: Saving Lives</h4>

    The womanughed angrily, "No problem with you two being in bed together? I��ve caught you in the act, and you still shamelessly deny it, disgraceful!"

    The other woman��s voice was soft and weak, "Da Bao, help me out, will you? Sister-inw is angry, and we really don��t have that kind of rtionship!"

    "Shut it, fox spirit! How dare you call him Da Bao? You��ve already gotten into bed with him, what else is there to deny? I��ll tear that fox spirit face of yours!" Guihua��s voice changed, filled with ss hatred and national animosity towards this woman.

    Another round of banging sounds, and the woman screamed, "Don��t hit me, please spare me, sister-inw, I��ll quit my job now and leave, okay?"

    Everyone shouted, "The fox spirit is trying to run!"

    Guihua also screamed not to let her escape, but Sun Chan was worried about the pregnant woman��s nervousness��what if something happened? Just as she opened the door, she heard Guihua��s miserable cry, followed by a thud as something fell to the floor, and someone shouted.

    "Ah! There��s blood, what should we do now?

    The husband was also terrified, "Wife, Guihua!"

    Something indeed happened! Sun Chan opened the door to see a woman in her twenties sitting on the ground, painfully clutching her stomach. Her face was haggard, her clothes were nice, and the man beside her, dressed in a suit, appeared to belong to such a scene.

    He anxiously supported her arm, "Guihua! Get up, let��s go to the hospital."

    Guihua screamed in tears, "Wang Dabao, that woman did this to me! Aren��t you human?"

    Wang Dabao pped himself hard, and his face swelled in an instant, "I was really wrong, but let��s talk about thister. Saving you is the priority now."

    As he helped Guihua up, he saw the blood on the floor, his vision went ck, and he loosened his hold. If it weren��t for Sun Chan and another woman going over to support her, Guihua would have fallen again.

    Wang Dabao leaned against the wall, struggling to speak, "I can��t see blood, Guihua, you just go to the maternity hospital! I��ll wait for you there!" After saying that, he ran off quickly.

    Someone burst out cursing, "What kind of person is this? His own wife is giving birth, and he just runs off without a care!"

    Most people just watched themotion, but when it came to actually dealing with it, they couldn��t do it, so gradually they all left.

    Only Sun Chan and the woman who helped earlier stayed. Sun Chan saw that at the door of the room where Wang Dabao had juste out, there was a quilt thrown, and she quickly grabbed it, letting the woman support Guihua outside.

    "Get to the hospital first!" Guihua cried out in pain with every step, tears continuously streaming down.

    "I really regret it! Why did I have a child with someone like this? My life is so bitter..."

    Sun Chan supported her waist,forting her, "It��s okay, big sister, you��ll be fine. Don��t think about anything now, think about your child, you need to be strong. Deep breaths, deep breaths!"

    Fortunately, having read something about maternity care before, sheforted her as the book suggested.

    The other woman helped hail a tricycle, saying she had to catch a train and left.

    Only Sun Chan apanied the pregnant woman to the hospital. She ced the quilt on the tricycle, let Guihua lie on it, and held her hand to calm her down.

    She smiled at Guihua, "In our vige, the women say seeing blood first before childbirth is a good sign, you��ll give birth soon, don��t worry. Deep breaths, don��t overthink."

    "Thank you, girl, I really... ahh!" She screamed in pain again, her body constantly twitching.

    Sun Chanforted her, feeling very anxious herself, she wasn��t a doctor, what if a life was lost?

    Luckily, they arrived at the hospital quickly. Sun Chan paid the fare, but the driver didn��t take the money, "Just get her inside quickly, don��t waste time."

    "Thank you, uncle!" Sun Chan supported her as they entered the hospital until a few nurses helped Guihua into the delivery room, where she finally breathed a sigh of relief.

    Then a nurse approached her to pay the fee.

    Sun Chan frowned, "Has her husband note yet?" How can he be so uncaring?

    "I don��t know. You should pay the fee first."

    She didn��t have much money on hand, but she didn��t hesitate, as it was a matter of life and death, and paid forty yuan for hospitalization. After waiting outside for a while, there was still no sign of anyoneing.

    Wang Dabao was nowhere to be found. Guihua��s screams from the delivery room made Sun Chan feel waves of sadness, and she suddenly thought of her own mother.

    Zhao Xiuxia said she was thrown to the side of a well, probably to drown her, but the perpetrator couldn��t bear it and left her there.

    Why did my mom have me if she didn��t like me or want me?

    In her past life, Sun Chan often thought about her origins and hoped that one day her biological mother woulde to take her away from her suffering, but it never happened even after a lifetime. In this life, she��s given up hope. Maybe her biological mother had long forgotten about her.

    But now this unfamiliar pregnant woman made her think about these things again. Sun Chan wiped her eyes and sighed.

    Why can��t I just let go? The mystery of her origins was a lifelong heartache spanning two lifetimes.

    "Wah!" The baby��s cries brought her back to reality, indicating the baby was born. Sun Chan quickly went over.

    The doctor came out, "It��s a boy, both the baby and the mother are safe, but the mother lost a lot of blood and will take some time to wake up. The baby is being ced in an incubator for now."

    "Thank you!" Sun Chan sighed in relief, things were finally okay.

    Just then, rushed footsteps echoed in the hallway��Wang Dabao arrived, carrying some items: a thermos, a towel, a nket, and an insted jug, presumably containing soup or porridge. He was sweating profusely, having been out for so long to take care of these tasks.

    Wang Dabao gasped, "How is it? Is my wife okay?"

    Seeing he first expressed concern for his wife, Sun Chan��s impression of him improved slightly, though she still spoke coolly, "She��s still sleeping, gave birth to a boy."

    Wang Dabao jumped up joyfully, then spun around in circles with his things, "Great! Miss, thank you so much! I really don��t know what to say, my wife has it so tough!"

    Sun Chan said nothing, this man still had a bit of conscience.

    Guihua remained unconscious on the bed, her face pale as paper. The baby had been taken away by the nurses.

    Wang Dabao, indeed a person of the world, was well-mannered, first obtaining the bill and reimbursing the hospitalization fee Sun Chan had paid, then repeatedly thanking her.

    Sun Chan said, "It��s no problem for me; just take good care of your wife." She said and proceeded to take her leave.

 Chapter 33: Making Friends

    <h4>Chapter 33: Chapter 33: Making Friends</h4>

    Who would have thought Wang Dabao would say, "No, you can��t leave yet. Neither Guihua nor I are locals here. We��re unfamiliar with the area, just discussing a small business deal. I��m about to head into the mountains. Can you help take care of her for a few days? I see you��re meticulous. Let��s say I hired you!" After saying so, he handed Sun Chan a hundred yuan.

    Sun Chan was startled, "No, I can��t take your money, and you don��t even know me. How can you give me money? What if I take it and leave? Besides, it��s too much." She earned only a few yuan per day as a caregiver, yet he gave a hundred, not fearing she��d run off!

    "Miss, you were the only one to help my wife just now, so I know you��re a good person. This money isn��t just for you; it��s her nutritional fee. Buy her whatever she needs. I��ll be back in three or four days. I know what I did is wrong; I was out of my mind. There��s still a month until the due date, and something like this happened. If I weren��t shameless, my wife wouldn��t be like this!" After finishing, Wang Dabao pped himself.

    Sun Chan couldn��t say anything more; Guihua had no way to take care of herself alone, so she nodded.

    Wang Dabao finally smiled, "I knew you were a good person!" He nced at his watch and said hastily, "I won��t make the train soon, I��ll leave now. Miss, everything is up to you, please take good care of her!"

    After saying that, he returned to kiss his wife, then left reluctantly.

    Sun Chan exhaled; it hade to this, she couldn��t ignore it. Besides, he had given money. She took care of the child and Guihua in the hospital. Guihua regained consciousness at night, seeing Sun Chan, who was nodding off nearby. She struggled to sit up.

    "Miss..."

    Sun Chan woke up immediately, "Sis, you��re awake? Your husband came earlier. He said he had business to do and left money for me to take care of you. Whatever you need, just let me know. I��ll help you."

    Guihua couldn��t help crying again, and Sun Chan hurriedly consoled her, "Sis, you can��t cry now, or it��ll hurt your eyes."

    "Wang Dabao, that heartless guy, I shouldn��t have let my family help him with his business!" she gritted her teeth.

    "Don��t think about it, sis," Sun Chan advised. "Right now, you need to take care of yourself and the child."

    Speaking of the child made Guihua feel better. Seeing the baby sleeping beside the bed brought a gentle smile to her face.

    Sun Chan breathed a sigh of relief.

    For four days straight, Sun Chan took care of Guihua in the hospital. She even checked out of the guesthouse room because she had ruined a quilt andpensated ten yuan. Sun Chan felt it was a bit much, considering current quilts cost three to five yuan, but she had to pay. She was at fault first.

    Sun Chan was exhausted, only able to rest briefly on the edge of the bed while Guihua was awake during the day, or take short breaks in a chair. She bought fabric to make diapers for the baby, borrowing scissors.

    Her work was conscientious and diligent, and since Wang Dabao had given ample money, she bought good soup, eggs, and porridge from the restaurant downstairs. Guihua had excellent meals every day. The baby was able to drink milk soon, despite being born prematurely; it was quite healthy.

    The people in the neighboring beds were envious; knowing they were strangers, they said, "We thought you were sisters!"

    "She��s like my sister; no one has treated me so well before." Guihuaughed.

    Sun Chan felt warm inside. In her previous life, she��d served Sun Lijuan during confinement, exhausting herself, but it was expected, and if she slipped up a bit, she��d get beaten and scolded.

    Zhao Xiuxia said she gave Sun Chan a life, so working herself to death was only right. Now having someone appreciate her made Sun Chan quite happy.

    When Guihua and Sun Chan had free time, they chatted about their lives. Guihua��s family was from a vige in the outskirts of X City, fairly well-off. She had several brothers who were doing quite well in the city, some even holding government positions.

    The family originally wanted to find her a live-in son-inw, but Guihua fell for the impoverished Wang Dabao. She married him despite opposition, living a hard life together. She managed to borrow some money from her family and started collecting mountain walnuts and hazelnuts with her husband, selling them in the south and dealing in timber on the side, finally making a bit of money.

    "Wang Dabao was very honest before, but since having some money, his thoughts have changed, and the woman he hooked up with was also one of our hired workers! I never expected it!" Guihua smiled bitterly, "He rushed off, probably to take that little b***h with him, but there��s nothing I can do."

    "That can��t be true; I saw he was rushing for business,"

    "Business is real, but taking women is real too. If not this floozy, there��d be another. But I won��t let this slide." She said coldly.

    Sun Chan, being an outsider, couldn��t say much, only advising: "I see he cares about you genuinely. Talk properly when you get back. For the child��s sake, you need to stay calm."

    Guihua nodded and asked about Sun Chan��s situation, which she revealed honestly.

    Upon hearing that she was sold by her adoptive mother and sister, Guihua cursed angrily, "They say vige people are honest, honest my a**! Some are full of bad intentions, clearly bad people, yet they can marry you off! Even if you were adopted, you can��t be their ve for life!"

    Isn��t Zhao Xiuxia��s logic just like that?

    Sun Chan smiled, "I��m out now, not nning to return. Once Broes back, I��ll look for another job, see if there��s suitable caregiving work."

    Guihua pondered, "This is a big ce, caregivers are connected. As a non-local, people won��t trust you easily, not allowing you in. Hmm, do you know how to read?"

    Sun Chan nodded, "A little."

    "That��s good!" Guihua nodded, "Alright, I��ll introduce you to a job. Guarantee it��ll be good. It��ll help find a partner too."

    Sun Chan smiled, not holding much hope, and took the baby��s diaper out to wash.

    On the fifth day, just as Sun Chan had bought breakfast for Guihua, Wang Dabao returned.

    He looked disheveled and tired, carrying many items.

    Upon entering, Wang Dabao ced the items by the bed and, smiling, held his wife��s hand, "Wife, I��m back! Let me see you and the baby!"

    Seeing him, Guihua drooped her eyelids, "Get out."

    Wang Dabao��s face stiffened, "Wife, I truly regret it."

    "I don��t want to see you; leave!"

    She grabbed the things he bought and threw them, scattering fruit everywhere. Wang Dabao stood still, not knowing what to do.

 Chapter 34: Frightening Soul

    <h4>Chapter 34: Chapter 34: Frightening Soul</h4>

    Marital conflicts, Sun Chan found it hard to persuade them, feeling very awkward.

    At that moment, the child suddenly started crying. Wang Dabao hurriedly picked up the child and gently rocked him: "My son, Bao, my treasure."

    The child quickly quieted down, biting his finger and smiling at him. Wang Dabao was even happier, indeed father and son are connected at heart.

    Guihua remained calm, didn��t get angry, and even picked up a bowl of porridge and started drinking slowly.

    "Guihua, I was wrong..." Wang Dabao moved closer, only to be pushed aside by Guihua.

    "I have nothing to say, let��s get a divorce. I��ll keep the child, and you go have one with that fox spirit."

    Wang Dabao, anxious and scratching his ears, pped himself hard: "Wife, with you like this, you can hit me or curse me, just please don��t divorce me."

    Guihua spat disdainfully and didn��t even look at him.

    Sun Chan quickly made an excuse and left. Let them talk it out themselves.

    Sun Chan thought Wang Dabao probably hadn��t eaten, so she bought some buns and fried dough sticks. She ate a few sticks alone in the hospital courtyard, waited for about an hour, and then returned, seeing the couple talking andughing while looking at their child. It seemed the storm had passed. Reflecting, she understood, this was the 80s; divorce wasn��t easy, especially with interests involved.

    Sun Chan smiled and walked over, cing the food beside the table: "Brother, have some please."

    "Thank you so much! Your name is Sun Chan, right?" Wang Dabao smiled: "Thank you so much for the past few days! We��re being discharged today, I��m taking her back for confinement. I��ll remember your great kindness for the rest of my life." He did not hold back, grabbing a bun and eating it heartily.

    Sun Chan smiled and said: "I didn��t do much, it��s better to rest at home than in the hospital. It��s busy here, and not warm."

    She took out the remaining few tens of money from her pocket: "I��ve kept track of expenses for meals and other things over these days, see..."

    Guihua reached out to stop her arm: "If you really consider me a sister, keep it. You saved my life; we haven��t even given you a thank-you fee."

    Sun Chan initially refused, struggling for a while, and then, feeling slightly embarrassed, epted it, feeling like the money was burning in her hand.

    "Then, sister and brother, I will leave now. I��ll visit you when I get a chance."

    "Don��t go! Didn��t I say I��d introduce you to a job? You should goter."

    Sun Chan was taken aback: "Huh, what did you say?"

    "Don��t worry, the ce I��m rmending is good, it��s a sanatorium in X City. The work environment and benefits are nice, and I��ve seen you take care of people very well. I��ve been thinking in the past few days about how to help you; isn��t this ce quite suitable? My brother from my maiden family manages a few things there, you just go, and I��ll call my brother downstairster to arrange." Guihua said cheerfully.

    Sun Chan hurriedly waved her hand: "No way, sister. I��m not educated, and I��m from the vige, how could I get into such a good ce?"

    Wang Dabao also said: "You saved my wife��s life, it��s only right we help you. When I wasn��t here, I heard you took good care too. We couldn��t thank you enough."

    Sun Chan was a bit worried, afraid her education wasn��t sufficient.

    Guihuaughed and patted her hand: "Rest assured, people with enough education don��t want to go, and without education, they can��t get in; you��re not worse than them, just go."

    Sun Chan was very surprised; just because she helped someone briefly, she had the chance to get a good job opportunitiy.

    She thanked them, and Guihua gave her the address of the sanatorium.

    Guihua grasped her hand, repeatedly telling her the address of her home: "Just in the suburban vige of this city, everyone in our vige is named Wang, you��ll know by asking."

    "Alright, I��ll definitely visit if I have time."

    Wang Dabao prepared for his wife and child to be discharged, and Sun Chan departed. It was already afternoon, as dusk approached, she realized she could only go tomorrow, so she found a room in the previous guest house. While paying, she noticed a man acting suspiciously beside her, constantly watching her as she held her money handkerchief.

    Sun Chan looked at him cautiously; he was in his thirties, somewhat chubby, with a fierce expression, unsure of when he started following her. Sun Chan didn��t say much, directly went to her room, and locked the door from inside.

    She nervously listened to the sounds outside, and sure enough, heard footsteps and faint door pushing sounds.

    Sun Chan shouted: "Who��s there?"

    The person didn��t respond, walked away directly, and Sun Chan heard a door opening sound, likely from a close distance.

    Sun Chan��s heart thumped: is he watching her?

    She had about a hundred yuan in the handkerchief, with what��s left from Wang Dabao and wife,bined with what she brought. But she kept therge bills in a pocket close to her body, and the money handed over for the room was only three to five small bills, yet still got noticed.

    Sun Chan was extremely nervous, didn��t dare leave the room, but the call of nature couldn��t be ignored, when the night came she needed the restroom. However, the guest house��s restroom was outside.

    She wanted to endure it, but by midnight couldn��t hold it anymore, quietly pushed open the door, walked out, locked the door, and swiftly ran towards the restroom with the key. What was a short corridor felt like a long, arduous journey to her.

    She was still panting from the exertion while using the restroom.

    Returning, she looked around and saw no one in the corridor, then went back to the room, everything was quiet.

    Just when Sun Chan rxed, ready to open the door, she felt a chill on her neck, then a hand covered her mouth and nose. A low voice sounded near her ear: "If you want to live,e with me! Where��s your money, I need to search you thoroughly!"

    His tone was extremely vulgar, then started pulling Sun Chan toward an opposite room. The knife was constantly drawing against her neck!

    Sun Chan felt her scalp tingle, this person wanted not only money but intended to harass her!

    She knew clearly she mustn��t follow into the room; otherwise, things would be bad. She suddenly jabbed his stomach with her elbow and bit his hand. He groaned in pain.

    Sun Chan screamed: "Help..."

    Unfortunately, she only uttered one word before being covered again.

    The man angrily kicked her, forcibly dragging her inside: "Behave, or I��ll undress you right here! It��ll be you embarrassed!"

    Were she another girl, she might��ve been terrified, but Sun Chan had lived two lives, understood life and death, how could she be scared?

    She constantly struggled, firmly grasping the doorknob, refusing toply.

    His knife rose: "You bitch, aren��t you afraid of dying?!"

    Sun Chan red at him with eyes full of hatred: "If I die, you won��t escape either!"

 Chapter 35: 2 Encounters

    <h4>Chapter 35: Chapter 35: 2 Encounters</h4>

    The man was taken aback to see the little girl so defiant, his raised knife momentarily unable to strike. He had only intended to take advantage, thinking the girl would be concerned about her reputation and wouldn��t dare speak out even if something happened. But unexpectedly, she showed no fear of him. He pulled her in with all his might, but Sun Chan was used to working, and her strength was formidable. She firmly grasped the door frame and refused to be pulled inside.

    In the midst of this stalemate, someone shouted sternly from the corridor, "Let her go!"

    The man trembled in fear, not knowing what was happening. Someone in the corridor had already pounced like a leopard. In the moonlight, he could see the man wearing military attire, standing tall and straight.

    Sun Chan heard a thud behind her, and the man fell to the ground. She also heard the sound of a knife cutting through skin and screamed, worried that the soldier had been hurt. She rushed over, pressed down on the man��s shoulder, and mmed his disheveled hair against the floor.

    With two people against one, it was much easier. The soldier kicked the man in the lower back, causing him to scream and attempt to flee. The soldier grabbed him again, and with a punch rendered the man unconscious, twisting his wrist and using his belt to tie him up, all in one swift, decisive motion.

    "Little girl, are you alright?"

    Sun Chan found the voice familiar and upon closer inspection, recognized Gu Junming. She excitedly grabbed his arm.

    "Leader Gu! I��ve finally found you." As she pulled, Gu Junming��s wound was tugged, and he groaned.

    "I��m sorry, did I hurt you?" Sun Chan frantically apologized.

    Gu Junming smiled: "It��s nothing. For us soldiers, this kind of injury is no big deal."

    At this point, the hostel staff and other guests, having heard themotion, came out to see what happened. As the room lights turned on, they could see clearly what was going on. Seeing a soldier pinning down a knife-wielding youth scared them all, especially when they saw a small girl involved as well. They began to specte about the situation.

    Gu Junming told the hostel staff sternly: "This man tried to rob and kill me, but I managed to capture him. Please arrange to call the police! This youngdy is from the opposite room. She came over to help when she saw what was happening. This has nothing to do with her." After speaking, he revealed his arm wound, shocking everyone into silence.

    Sun Chan was momentarily stunned, then understood; he must have been worried about gossip. After all, a man and a woman fighting in the middle of the night would make for awkward rumors.

    Gu Junming asked Sun Chan to wait in her room until the police arrived, then he woulde over.

    He looked into the corner andmanded: "What are you waiting for? Make the call!"

    Only then did Sun Chan realize there was a soldier standing over there.

    It turned out Gu Junming was on his way back to his unit, but received orders en route to find a new soldier who couldn��t handle the training and ran away. Gu Junming and a few soldiers had been searching separately for a day ording to clues from civilians, who said the runaway was hiding in the hostel. He checked each hostel in turn.

    Having finally caught the runaway, as he was about to bring him back, he unexpectedly encountered this situation. The young soldier was terrified and stood still in the corner.

    Upon hearing the leader��smand, the soldier hurried out to make the call.

    Sun Chan nervously sat on the bed, worried about Gu Junming��s injury.

    She waited until he returned, then hurriedly went over to inspect his wound.

    Gu Junming said: "It��s alright. The innkeeper helped me wrap it with a towel, it��s just a minor cut."

    Looking at the towel, Sun Chan noticed it was a bit dirty and wrapped too tightly, hindering blood flow. She found a new towel from her luggage and helped him re-bandage it.

    "What will happen to the bad guy?"

    Gu Junming snorted: "At least twenty years." Attempted assault on an active-duty soldier is no trivial offense. He didn��t dare reveal his attempt to molest her, as that would only result in a harsher sentence!

    Sun Chan finally felt at ease and satisfied!

    Gu Junming said: "You��re very skilled at bandaging."

    "Yes, I worked in the hospital as a nurse aide for a while, so I know a bit about these things." She saw the blood on Gu Junming��s arm and her voice trembled. Though he said it was nothing, she knew how much it hurt. It was her carelessness that caused this.

    Gu Junming watched her gentle actions, a faint tenderness appearing on his otherwise cold face.

    "I��ve seen you work as a nurse aide. Why did you stop?"

    Sun Chan smiled: "Because my stepmother came to find me, trying to drag me back and marry me off to a loser. I had no choice but to keep running away."

    Back then, when she escaped, Gu Junming was the one who rescued her, so she had nothing to hide and told him everything.

    "I only want to escape, to be as far away from them as possible. But I know, they fear I might live well, they wish nothing but to drag me into hell, to suck me dry for their benefit."

    "Your household registration is still with them, which will be a big problem for school or marriage in the future. You should think about getting it transferred elsewhere,pletely severing ties with them." Gu Junming��s realistic concerns were what Sun Chan feared to face.

    "Look at my family background; who would choose me? Even if the person didn��t mind, their family would definitely reject me. Zhao Xiuxia would demand a huge dowry, I might as well just live this life as it is."

    Sun Chan had resolved to never marry or rely on them for anything.

    Gu Junming looked at her calm expression and felt ufortable inside. What kind of life had she led these years, constantly exploited by her stepmother, yet she could face such injustice with suchposure. She was very strong.

    Sun Chan then smiled and said, "Oh, I almost forgot! This is for you!" She took out her money, totaling over forty yuan, and handed it to Gu Junming: "You paid for my hospital bills when I was hospitalized. I��m able to repay you now, though it��s a bitte, isn��t it?" It was exactly forty-two yuan and thirty cents, neatly rolled together, prepared for a long time.

    Sun Chan held the money, waiting for a long time without him taking it, realizing Gu Junming was gazing at her. She curiously asked, "What��s wrong? Is the money incorrect?"

    Gu Junming quickly diverted his gaze from her, mesmerized by her beautiful eyes. He coughed several times, unsure why he was briefly enchanted.

    "You keep it." He returned the money to Sun Chan.

 Chapter 36 New Job

    <h4>Chapter 36: Chapter 36 New Job</h4>

    "That��s not possible, Commander. I still have some money with me, enough to get by for a while. Besides, someone introduced me to a job; I have a new job starting tomorrow. You��ve saved me twice already, how can I possibly ask you for money?" Sun Chan said with a smile, feeling somewhat proud.

    Gu Junming could only nod and put it away.

    There was a knock on the door, it was the young soldier, timidly saying, "Commander, we should return to the team."

    "You��re not running away?"

    The young soldier hurriedly said, "I guarantee I won��t run away again. I��m willing to ept any punishment, just don��t let me get expelled!" He had seen the Commander��s bravery earlier and felt quite envious; he also wanted to train well.

    Gu Junming snorted, lucky for you! He stood up and bid farewell, "Sun Chan, until we meet again."

    Sun Chan nodded with a smile, saw him off, but shortly after, the door was knocked again, "Sun Chan, it��s Gu Junming."

    Sun Chan quickly opened the door, "Commander Gu, you have something else?"

    "Here��s this for you. If anything happens to you, call me every Tuesday and Friday afternoon." Gu Junming handed her a note with the phone number of his camp.

    Sun Chan gratefully took the note. In a foreignnd, encountering such a kind person, she felt deeply grateful. After a while, she smiled at Gu Junming, saying, "Really, thank you so much, Commander Gu."

    "I��m not being polite. If you need anything, you can truly reach out to me." Gu Junming said and then turned to leave.

    The girl��s eyes had reddened earlier; he had an impulse to hug her, offering support and warmth, but quickly regained his rationality.

    After seeing Gu Junming off, Sun Chan paused for a moment and decided to take a nap. While making the bed, she discovered that the money given to Gu Junming was perfectly ced under the pillow. They were so close together, yet she had no idea how he put it there.

    Sun Chan felt a stir in her heart, clenching the money in her palm. She knew that Commander Gu wouldn��t ept the money no matter what; she had to think of another way to repay him. He��s truly a good person.

    Sun Chan slept uneasily for a while, then got up early and went to the sanatorium.

    This ce was quiterge and had a nice environment. There are several four-story buildings, pretty good for the time. But what��s most surprising is that behind this ce is a vast stretch of mountains. Inside, there��s a rarely visited forest rumored to be near a military base��s station.

    Though only a part belongs to the sanatorium, it��s still quite amazing. The scenery here is also quite good.

    Sun Chan went to the guard room and reported her name.

    The old guardughed cheerfully, nodding to her, "Were you rmended by Director Wang? He had already made arrangements;e with me."

    Sun Chan was stunned; she never thought Wang Guihua��s brother would have such connections.

    The guard took her to an office on the second floor at the front. Inside, a middle-aged man walked her around: "Our main work here is caring for the elderly��s diet, hygiene, cooking, and taking care of those who can��t manage by themselves. You��re new, so start by doing some odd jobs in the cafeteria! Eighty yuan a month, after probation, a hundred and twenty."

    Sun Chan promptly agreed; the job��s pay was quite reasonable.

    She began working here at the cafeteria, which had five people. Apart from the man in charge of cooking, the rest were women, chatting while working, acknowledging Sun Chan only with nods.

    These people were somewhat unfriendly, giving her the hardest tasks, but she didn��tin. Peeling potatoes, kneading dough, or cleaning, she managed them well and seemed to be in a good mood every day.

    In her past life, besides doing this every day, she also had to farm Zhou Jinzhu��snd, and thend of Zhao Xiuxia. She had to wash and clean for the Zhou Family, taking care of everyone; otherwise, she would��ve worked herself to death.

    Now, she was much more rxedpared to then, not to mention that she could earn a sry.

    Seeing Sun Chan work so diligently, everyone felt embarrassed about tiring her, and her days were getting better. She was kind-hearted and diligent, so she quickly became friends with them.

    Except for a girl named Liu Qingshuang, about the same age, who looked decent but just couldn��t stand her, always dropping things and being sarcastic while working with her.

    Sun Chan pretended not to notice, as long as she wasn��t directly insulted, she wouldn��t respond.

    Liu Qingshuang felt irritated, unable to find a chance to deal with her, just stewing in anger. She certainly hoped Sun Chan wouldn��t stick around.

    Sun Chan wasn��t sure how Wang Dan was doing, so she wrote him a letter describing her situation.

    Wang Dan quickly replied, telling Sun Chan that Sun Lijuan was in trouble.

    Before leaving, Sun Chan had made a serious report against Sun Lijuan. When she went to school, the teacher called her to the office to inquire about her family situation. Only then did Sun Lijuan realize she��d been set up by Sun Chan; she hurriedly exined, saying it was all her mother��s idea, and she didn��t know.

    The teacher pped the table: "Are you fooling a three-year-old? Sun Lijuan, you were present at the time; your mother was doing what, and you didn��t know? Look at what your sister wears, and look at what you wear, aren��t you afraid of gossip? Go back and tell your mom, arranging a marriage is absolutely not allowed! Also, your membership application wasn��t approved, you need to reflect on your mistakes!"

    Sun Lijuan had no choice but to nod while leaving the office, gritting her teeth in anger! All her life she had a smooth sail, buttely has been unlucky, mainly because of Sun Chan!

    This matter quickly spread in school, and those boys who used to interact with her all ignored her. Turns out her well-off life was bought with her sister��s paycheck, no point pursuing her anymore. Sun Chan��s dream of marrying into the city became difficult to achieve.

    Wang Dan also informed Sun Chan that he��s getting married on October 1st, hoping she coulde back.

    Sun Chan felt a bit helpless; less than a month remained, and without leave, she probably couldn��t go back.

    Just then, Liu Qingshuang passed by, eyeing her ntingly, "Reading love letters? Let me see."

    Sun Chan put away the letter and was about to leave.

    "Stop right there! Sun Chan, I suspect you��re seeing someone! You must let me check your letters, absolutely no improper person is allowed to work here!" She spoke confidently.

    Sun Chan sneered, "Why should I show you? Just because this letter is not a love letter, even if I am seeing someone, how is that improper? You��ve been seeing someone for a while, and I haven��t said anything about you."

 Chapter 37: Oppose

    <h4>Chapter 37: Chapter 37: Oppose</h4>

    Liu Qingshuang red: "Am I the same as you? I have a city residence permit! But I can��t say this out loud, the leaders will criticize me if they find out."

    "How are we different? Everyone is equal in a socialist country!"

    "Anyway, you have to show me the letter! You��re up to no good, who knows what kind of shameless things are written in it!" As she spoke, she tried to grab it, but Sun Chan pushed her aside.

    Sun Chan pushed her hand away: "I can show it to you, let��s gather all the leaders and read this letter out loud. If it��s a love letter, I��ll resign, if it��s not, you resign. How about that?"

    Liu Qingshuang��s face turned pale. Seeing Sun Chan so confident, she didn��t dare to act rashly. If word got out about her ndering a colleague and trying to snatch a letter, it would certainly make her future mother-inw look bad.

    So in the end, Sun Chan obviously didn��t show her the letter, making Liu Qingshuang stomp her feet in anger.

    Someone nearby told her: "Ignore her! She originally wanted to get her boyfriend��s sister in here to work, but even after talking to the bosses several times, they didn��t agree, and you got in instead. That��s why she��s upset with you." This girl, Yang Liu, looked graceful and was quite kind.

    Sun Chan was enlightened: "So that��s how it is! Seems like a lot of people want to work here."

    "Exactly! This is a good ce. Work for a few years and you can be official, and there��s even a chance to get housing in the city. Plus, the benefits are good."

    Sun Chan opened her mouth, surprised that Sister Guihua could help her get such a good job! She thought about visiting Guihua during break to thank her properly, while feeling a bit anxious, as her status here was somewhat unofficial.

    On this day, while Sun Chan was picking up steamed buns, Liu Qingshuang carried a basin of water and passed by from behind.

    "Move, make way for me!"

    Sun Chan had stood off to the side as much as possible, but Liu Qingshuang��s basin still sshed some water on her, soaking her back. It was alreadyte autumn, and Sun Chan shivered from the cold.

    Liu Qingshuang eximed: "I told you to get out of the way, why didn��t you? I have to go back and refill!"

    Sun Chan said nothing, but the cook next to her was unhappy: "Liu Qingshuang! You soaked her clothes and didn��t even offer to pay, yet you still me her? The road is so wide, how could you ssh water on someone?"

    "She blocked the road herself, why me me?"

    "If you sshed water on me and had the same attitude, believe me, I��d p you! Apologize now!"

    Liu Qingshuang bit her lip angrily and red at the cook.

    Sun Chan didn��t want her colleagues to fight, so she grabbed a towel to wipe off: "Forget it. It��s not a big deal."

    "Hmph. Smart move!" Liu Qingshuang left with the basin.

    But she didn��t stay smug for long; that afternoon, while in the restroom pulling up her pants, arge basin of cold water sshed down from above, chilling her thoroughly, and she screamed, running out like a drenched rat, but everyone had left. She insisted it was Sun Chan��s doing.

    But Sun Chan was in the backyard picking beans at the time, not having any chance to go over.

    And so the matter was left unresolved, leaving Liu Qingshuang furious enough to faint.

    Yang Liu smiled at Sun Chan. She had seen Sun Chan running from the restroom, jumping through the windows of the two offices.

    Besides working in the cafeteria every day, Sun Chan went to the bookstore to buy many books about nursing, eager to learn about this field. She knew that with only a few years of education, it was impossible to attend nursing school, but gaining knowledge was still beneficial.

    However, Liu Qingshuang kept eyeing her maliciously, finding various ways to trouble and argue with her. If someone else was in her shoes, they would have cried and quit long ago, but Sun Chan? She had been oppressed by many people in two lifetimes, and was already well-trained. She simply ignored Liu Qingshuang, giving her no advantage.

    Originally, they were in the same dorm room, top and bottom bunks, but Liu Qingshuang would flip around like a pancake on the top bunk, always dropping things, and when she couldn��t find them, she��d im Sun Chan took them. Others in the dorm thought Liu Qingshuang was being unreasonable and told her as much, prompting her to make a scene, even calling the Dormitory Director.

    "Sun Chan! It was peaceful in the dorm before you arrived, now you��re stirring up chaos."

    Sun Chan nced at her: "Really trying to drive me away? Why?"

    "Who��s driving you away? Today you have to rify, Director. We can��t keep someone who talks nonsense like this!"

    Sun Chan said: "I��ve got a clear conscience, ask the next dorm who causes trouble every day."

    "Director..."

    "Alright! It��s not a big deal." The Director moved Sun Chan to a different dorm.

    Liu Qingshuang was not satisfied; just changing dorms? She couldn��t believe she couldn��t drive Sun Chan away with her scolding! But Sun Chan kept ignoring her, leaving Liu Qingshuang frustrated.

    That day the cafeteria was making stuffed buns, each worker got tworge turnip and meat buns for lunch. Sun Chan finished washing bowls, took her buns to the little grove out back, and sat reading while eating.

    She was engrossed when a caretaker rushed over, asking: "Did you see an old man in a hospital gown? I just went to the restroom, and now he��s gone! He should be nearby, why can��t I find him?"

    Sun Chan quickly finished her meal and began searching around. By then, the sky had started to darken; clouds were thick, and rain threatened. Everyone grew more frantic.

    If something truly went wrong, it would affect the entire elderly care center, so all doctors and nurses hurriedly began searching.

    Large raindrops began falling on Sun Chan and the others, soon turning into a heavy downpour.

    "We need to go back. This area is all woods, we could be struck by lightning!" Amidst the heavy wind and rain, several shes of lightning fell.

    Everyone could only run back, hoping the old man had returned on his own.

    Sun Chan walked for a bit, and amidst the thunder and lightning, thought she saw a figure hiding in the bushes. Her heart jumped; she wanted to call for the others, but they had already run off, and she didn��t quite know the terrain, leaving her alone.

    She wiped the rain from her face, walked over, and crouched by the bushes: "Is it you, Sir? Come out, it��s raining too hard!"

    The old man said nothing, eyes fixed on her, then suddenly turned to leave.

    Sun Chan hurriedly chased him: "Sir!"

    Another sh of lightning, and the tree next to her split in half, making Sun Chan scream and cover her ears. At that moment, the old man��s foot slipped, and he rolled down the hill.

 Chapter 38: Torrential Rain

    <h4>Chapter 38: Chapter 38: Torrential Rain</h4>

    Sun Chan hesitated for a moment, seeing the lightning above the sky, shing through the lush trees. She hesitated for a few seconds, and then her worry surpassed her fear. She walked over to the hillside, reached out her hand, and said, "Come on, I��ll pull you up."

    The old man was soaked all over, his clothes crumpled and sticking to his body. He was covered in mud, looking extremely embarrassed but spirited. He first nced at Sun Chan warily, snorted, and said, "Don��t bother about me, go back!" After saying this, he quickly walked forward. Despite the heavy rain and poor footing, the old man indeed moved swiftly, truly admirable.

    Sun Chan gritted her teeth, slid down the hillside, and ignoring the mud on her body, continued to follow him.

    The heavy rain continued to fall, with the two of them chasing after each other. Soon they walked out of the forest and arrived at the entrance of a cave at the foot of a hillside. This ce was very remote, with few people evering here.

    Sun Chan followed him, panting heavily with chest pain from exhaustion, and her body was numb from the rain.

    Sun Chan shouted to him, "Chief, what��s happening?"

    The old man was visibly stunned to find Sun Chan still behind him. "You��re still here?"

    "Old chief, go back. Everyone is looking for you."

    The old man was a bit impatient: "I��m fine! Don��t worry about me! I��m catching a thief!" He supported his knees with both hands, panting, suddenly seeing the old man crouching down, walking towards the cave, grabbing a stone from the ground. Sun Chan was curious about what he was doing, when she saw a young guy dash out from the forest in front, carrying arge bag, running out. The old man rushed over, threw the stone at him but missed, then simply threw himself on the guy.

    The two began wrestling on the hillside, covered in muddy water, looking as bedraggled as could be.

    The guy struggled continuously. Seeing the old man couldn��t subdue him, Sun Chan ran over and helped the old man hold him down.

    The old man shouted, "It��s none of your business, go your way!"

    "No! I want to help you!"

    "You..."

    Sun Chan saw the guy grab a handful of mud and throw it at the old man��s face. She quickly dashed over, grabbed his arm, and the two began wrestling. The old man stood up and kicked the guy in the back, causing him to grunt and fall t, no longer moving. The bag he was holding fell over during the struggle, revealing a pile of Hericium mushrooms.

    Sun Chan had only seen these on magazines and TV. They were precious supplements. In the 1980s, not many were artificially cultivated, so such a quantity of Hericium mushrooms was worth a fortune! It turned out this guy was here to steal Hericium mushrooms from the forest!

    "Don��t waste time, pack these things up," the old man said as he went over to catch that guy. Sun Chan hurriedly packed things up, also worried that the old man might get hurt.

    The guy pleaded, "Old sir, please spare me. My family is poor. I just wanted to earn some money."

    "Shut up! I��ve caught you several times! And look at your watch and clothes, is this how a poor person lives? You��re just taking advantage here! How did you get in here? There��s a military area ahead; we must interrogate you thoroughly, perhaps you��re a spy!"

    Sun Chan couldn��t help butugh, in this era, there��s still talk of spies, the old man was as vignt as ever.

    The guy hurriedly shouted, "How can you say that, you��ve seen me before, haven��t you? I��m not an enemy agent, I��m just a thief, please forgive me!"

    Everyone knows from watching movies that enemy agents get shot!

    "Ha, letting you go with so many Hericium mushrooms would cost the public huge losses! Follow me!" He said, tightening a belt around the guy��s wrists.

    Then a sh of lightning struck again, and two more trees fell to the ground, splitting into pieces.

    Sun Chan couldn��t help but scream, but the old man wasn��t afraid. He twisted the man��s arm, walked over, and grabbed Sun Chan��s wrist.

    "Let��s go, I��ll take you back. The road here is difficult. Tell me, with such a small courage, how are you a soldier?" The old man held Sun Chan��s hand as they took a detour out of the forest, heading back. Though speaking firmly, he was after all elderly, tired from capturing someone and walking such a long way. His footsteps began to slow. Along the way, he nearly fell several times, saved only by Sun Chan holding him, almost exhausting her.

    "You littlerade! With such physical condition, can you even be a soldier? Walking so slowly, you really need to exercise more!"

    "Chief, I��m not a soldier..."

    "Don��t try to justify. I know you well! You don��t eat enough, only care about maintaining your figure, so that��s why your steps are weak! Without striving forward, only knowing to look good, how can you seed?"

    The old man criticized Sun Chan, leaving her speechless, as she silently carried the bag of Hericium mushrooms and supported him. If he fell, he might break a bone. The young guy kept pleading, but the old man wouldn��t let go, eventually tiring him out.

    Meanwhile, everyone at the canteen sat in the hall. Having heard that the old chief was missing, they had also gone out to search, returned soaked without finding him, and could only wait for news here.

    Sun Chan had gone out to find him but had not returned, making everyone worried.

    With such heavy rain, the vast surrounding forests, and difficult roads, what if something really happened?

    Liu Qingshuang wasining about Sun Chan, "We are all concerned for the chief��s safety, searching everywhere, and yet who knows where Sun Chan has gone, hiding out instead of helping. Such a person should not stay at the canteen!"

    Yang Liu retorted angrily, "Liu Qingshuang, have you confirmed everything before you speak? What if Sun Chan went out to search, not ck off, how can you say that?"

    "If not cking, what is it, you��re defending her now, if it��ster found that she wasn��t searching, you��d resign with her?" Liu Qingshuang didn��t believe Sun Chan would search. She wasn��t familiar with the road, and even if she entered, it would likely turn out badly, hopefully scaring her into resigning on her own.

    By then her partner could join.

    Yang Liu coldlyughed, "Sure! If she indeed went searching, you resign."

    Liu Qingshuang bit her lip, ring at her. Though Yang Liu never spoke of her family background, judging by her attire and meals, she was clearly not from an ordinary family, so it was better to restrain oneself.

    After a moment of silence, Yang Liu saw that the rain continued relentlessly, and it was getting dark.

    She was bing anxious, standing up and saying, "No, something must have happened to Sun Chan, I��m going to check."

 Chapter 39: She Must Be Driven Away!

    <h4>Chapter 39: Chapter 39: She Must Be Driven Away!</h4>

    The head chef held her back: "No way, if anything happens to you, how can we exin to the higher-ups? You can��t go."

    "But Sun Chan just arrived; how would she know the terrain over there? What if something happens?"

    Liu Qingshuang said: "I doubt she even went. No need to look for her. She��s probably hiding somewhere."

    Yang Liu looked at Liu Qingshuang: "Don��t go too far. Saying awful things in lighter situations is one thing, but you dare talk like that when lives are at stake? If something happens, can you take responsibility?"

    "It��s true! It��s pouring outside, and she goes out to show off right after arriving, clearly wanting to attract attention. How can people not talk?" She didn��t dare argue with Yang Liu, only muttering under her breath.

    Just then, a little soldier ran in from outside, drenched in rain. He wiped his face: "We found Sun Chan; she asked me to let you know everything��s fine, no need to worry."

    "Where is she?" Everyone asked simultaneously.

    The man smiled: "Sun Chan found the oldmander and is now at the infirmary. They even caught a thief together! The three of them are covered in mud, looking quite the mess!"

    Everyone breathed a sigh of relief and was very pleased. So many people couldn��t find the old man, but only Sun Chan did, earning credit in the process. It��s an honor for our cafeteria!

    Only Liu Qingshuang was unhappy, biting her lip. That damned girl, why is she so lucky? Had I known, I would have tagged along. She stole such a big achievement!

    The master cookughed: "Our cafeteria has something to be proud of this time; let��s make something tasty for Sun Chan!"

    "Sure thing!" Yang Liu nced at the sulky Liu Qingshuang and quickly ran over to prepare chicken soup. Being out in such heavy rain for so long is not a joke. She needs a good replenishment.

    Sun Chan was running a bit of a fever, but fortunate for her youth, she recovered quickly. The old man was talking loudly in the neighboring room,ughter asionally drifting over.

    Sun Chan��s mouth twitched; this old man really is full of energy.

    When Yang Liu arrived, she saw Sun Chan shaking, wrapped in twoyers of quilts and clutching a hot water bottle, pale-faced.

    Yang Liu took a thermos over, gently smacking her shoulder in concern: "You really scared us! Don��t do that next time!"

    Sun Chan smiled and nodded: "Got it!"

    Back then, who would have thought this old man had such energy? She thought he had dementia and wandered off, not realizing he had focused on catching that thief. Had she known, she wouldn��t have impulsively followed him.

    Yang Liu smirked: "That old man was praising you just now."

    Sun Chan was surprised: "He��s praising me?"

    Wasn��t he alwaysining I walked too slow and was timid, dragging things down? How could he speak so well of me?

    "Yes, he said you��re kind-hearted, knowing there was danger ahead, yet still concerned for his safety, following him. Being such a good person."

    Sun Chan smiled; this old man is truly a soft heart beneath harsh words.

    Yang Liu said: "Now you��re more secured here, don��t pay attention to that nasty woman."

    Sun Chan nodded slightly, feeling a bit sad. She always wanted to make friends wherever she went; why do some people just refuse to ept her?

    She rested in the ward for several days, during which all the cafeteria workers came to see her, bringing food and words of encouragement, except Liu Qingshuang, who stayed sulking.

    Liu Qingshuang was now anxious; she really wanted to get rid of this woman!

    Her family was average, her parents not particrly capable, but her brother married well. Her entire family leaned on her sister-inw for a long time to get Liu Qingshuang a job at this elderly care home.

    Her sister-inw was very displeased: "My father never bowed to anyone in his life, even during my job change, there was no worry. Now we��ve given my sister-inw this chance, begging grandfather and grandmother, losing face entirely. Remember, just this once; we won��t handle her matters in the future, don��t expect anything."

    Nobody utteredints despite her sour attitude; everyone remained thankful.

    Liu Qingshuang��s future husband��s family in X City was average; his parents both teachers who retired early to pass on the jobs to their two children. However, her future sister-inw was wild and crude, almost beat a kid to death at work, got fired, now unemployed, sleeps all day, starts arguments everywhere, and can��t find a partner.

    The mother-inw said, "Since you��ve managed to secure a job at such a good unit, can you find a position for her? Then she can live in the dormitory; when you and Gangzi marry, you can have a suite. Otherwise, after marriage, you��ll have to share a room with her, quite inconvenient."

    Back then, housing was indeed tight, situations with four or five kids and a couple living in one room were real. It��s not much to have three people in a room, but who doesn��t want their own space, especially with such a troublesome sister-inw underfoot. Better to have her out.

    Most importantly, if she arranged work for her sister-inw, she��d be of value to her inws, a show of contribution ensuring no mistreatment.

    Liu Qingshuang promised with a firm chest tap; the cafeteria was short one slot, she guaranteed talking to management would get it. Who��d have thought before she could mention, the position was taken by Sun Chan, could she ept that?

    Imagining her mother-inw and sister-inw��s sneers and ridicule, Liu Qingshuang fumed. Her chances were already elevated finding a teacher; they showed no warmth pre-marriage, how would her married life be? Besides, she heard, her fianc�� was already secretly dating with the condition of securing employment for his sister. If he seeded, would he even want her anymore?

    After work, Liu Qingshuang didn��t go home, sitting by the courtyard��s flowerbed lost in thought, how to chase Sun Chan away?

    At that moment, she spotted a woman in a white coat approaching from afar. Her face instantly lit with a ttering smile as she rushed over.

    "Doctor Bai, you��ve returned. Here to see the oldmander?"

    The person wasn��t a stranger but Bai Fann.

    She frequent visited here to provide free consultations for the elderly leadership, thus everyone knew her. Bai Fann was also in a down mood, only nodding slightly: "I heard the oldmander got caught in the rain, I came to check."

    "Your medical skills are superb, surely a quick recovery!" Liu Qingshuang continued shadowing, showing no discerning sense.

    "Haha, you go about your business, don��t mind me." Bai Fann said coldly.

 Chapter 40: Adding Fuel and Vinegar

    <h4>Chapter 40: Chapter 40: Adding Fuel and Vinegar</h4>

    Since Gu Junmingid things bare with her, Bai Fann hasn��t been in a good mood.

    Even though she hasn��t heard any gossip at work, she feels guilty, always thinking they��re mocking her behind her back for throwing herself at a guy and getting dumped. The more she thinks about it, the more upset she gets! She��s a proud woman and can��t tolerate such humiliation. So she��s been in a slump.

    Yesterday after work, her grandfather told her that the old chief was sick and asked her to visit him.

    Bai Fann sat on the sofa, frowning: "There are doctors over there too, I won��t go. Otherwise, people will definitely mock me and say I��m trying to cozy up to them!"

    "Don��t talk nonsense! Does your grandfather��s status require you to suck up?"

    Bai Fann fiddled with her nails: "That��s true. But I still don��t want to go. It��s my day off, and taking a bus is tiring."

    Bai Chuan was left speechless by her response, increasingly exasperated with this granddaughter. Although outwardly things seemed fine, the actual power in his hands was gradually slipping away, cing him in a precarious position. This was a sign that the higher-ups no longer wanted him in ce and were hoping he would voluntarily step down. How could he be willing to retreat from the stage of power just like that? Yet now his position is so unstable, and his granddaughter can��t help at all! It��s really maddening.

    If Gu Junming sessfullypletes his current task, he��ll definitely get promoted, and Bai Chuan��s position will be even more at risk.

    Thinking of Gu Junming made Bai Chuan clench his fists involuntarily.

    The old chief has a special status; his several children now hold real power in the military district, forming a connection with their family would be advantageous. But Bai Fann just won��t understand!

    Looking at Bai Fann��s delicate face, Bai Chuan swallowed his anger: "I��ll send a car to take you over. Go see him; the old chief is an older revolutionary, it will do you good to have more contact with him! Plus, you need to seize the opportunity, you know? His eldest son is thirty, yet still single. You could give it a try."

    Before he could finish, Bai Fann interrupted him: "Grandpa! I already said I��m not considering marriage for now. Why are you bringing it up again!" She was annoyed and turned to stride upstairs.

    Bai Chuan could only say: "Alright, if you don��t want to talk about marriage, that��s fine. Just be polite when you see him; you��ve been creating too much fusstely."

    "Got it," Bai Fann said softly,

    This time she came to X City not only to check the old chief��s health but also to see Gu Junming. She refused to believe it: given her own excellent qualities, why wouldn��t he be interested? She intended to create all sorts of chances to be with him until she won his heart. Then what?

    Marry him? No, she��d dump Gu Junming, exact her revenge, and show everyone that he was beneath her!

    From childhood until now, has there ever been anything Bai Fann wanted and couldn��t get? Of course, she was unwilling to let it go. It wasn��t about liking or disliking anymore; this had wounded her pride��it��s intolerable!

    The son of Mr. Yan didn��t interest her either. She always had many admirers and didn��t need to cozy up to someone to secure a rtionship.

    Now, her head was filled with these thoughts, making her uninterested in conversing with a temporary worker in the cafeteria.

    But Liu Qingshuang, oblivious as she was, still followed her around. Bai Fann was annoyed and ignored her no matter what she said. Liu Qingshuang eventually realized she wasn��t wee and forced a smile, intending to leave after saying goodbye.

    Just then, Sun Chan walked in from the side, with Yang Liu beside her, both carrying cabbages and radishes towards the cafeteria, chatting andughing quietly as they went.

    Bai Fann was stunned. What��s she doing here! The only person in her life who dared to hit her was here!

    Liu Qingshuang sneered: "Truly conniving! Whenever she finds someone with connections, shetches on shamelessly!"

    Bai Fann frowned slightly: "Who are you talking about? Sun Chan?"

    "Oh, I just said it casually. I��m off to my work." Startled at the mention of Sun Chan, Liu Qingshuang got scared that her instigation would upset Bai Fann.

    "Don��t go just yet." Bai Fann stopped her: "Don��t worry, I won��t retaliate against you. Just tell me, is that woman up to something disgusting here again?"

    Liu Qingshuang was overjoyed at these words, finding a like-minded ally atst!

    She began embellishing tales of Sun Chan��s wrongdoings, sucking up to leaders,zing around, and being slippery.

    "The old chief went out to catch a thief; what does that have to do with someone working in the kitchen? Yet she tagged along and was even brought back by him. If it weren��t for her, the old chief wouldn��t have caught a cold! She��s just seeing people with wealth and power and trying to cozy up. These vige women, whenever they see someone capable from the city, they cling on right away. Maybe she��s aiming to be the chief��s wife!" She was speaking rather maliciously here.

    But her main goal was to get rid of Sun Chan, so she was pouring dirt on her. Bai Fann had indeed encountered a simr situation: a nurse at theirpound developed feelings while taking care of the chief, and they ended up getting married despite a twenty-year age difference. She became the chief��s wife, strutted around arrogantly, and her family rose along with her.

    Bai Fann sneered inwardly, so she really does want to climb up the socialdder! This woman is truly shameless, daring to hit me publicly and then y the victim! She truly doesn��t have any decency!

    After attending Gu Junming��s grandfather��s birthday, Bai Fann took two days off. When she returned to the hospital, she learned about Sun Chan. She didn��t know much, just heard that Sun Chan��s mother and sister wanted her to return to the vige to get married, but she refused and ran away.

    Bai Fann thought Sun Chan was vain and didn��t want to go back to the vige to suffer, but since she left, good riddance; seeing her only caused distress. Yet in such a short time, she��d already improved and found a high-end job, even connecting with Mr. Yan, infuriating Bai Fann even more.

    Liu Qingshuang cautiously said: "Doctor Bai, when you see the old chief, you must remind him that this woman is wicked and should not be used."

    "Rest assured." Bai Fann sneered coldly: "This ce has no room for such a harmful element; I��ll make sure she leaves quickly!"

    With that, she marched straight to the ward.

    Liu Qingshuang, behind her, was all smiles. Atst, she had rid herself of this trouble. No, I have to inform my sister-inw. Time to get back to work! She quickly rushed outside to call and share the good news!

    Bai Fann went to the ward, where the old man was reading a newspaper.

    "Old Chief, I��m here to see you," she said, smiling as she walked in.

    Seeing her arrive, the old chief nodded with a smile: "Ah, it��s the girl from the Bai Family. What brings you here?"

 Chapter 41: Calling to Account

    <h4>Chapter 41: Chapter 41: Calling to ount</h4>

    "I heard you were ill, so I specifically came to see you." Bai Fann approached warmly.

    "Aren��t you going to work? I��m doing quite well, no need to make such a long trip. It wouldn��t be good if people said I��m getting special treatment."

    Bai Fann��s face stiffened slightly��was this old man so ungracious? But she quicklyughed: "I came during my break, please don��t misunderstand. My grandfather said you��ve been friends andrades for many years and asked me to take good care of you, otherwise he wouldn��t be at ease."

    The old man��s expression didn��t improve any, he just smiled: "Thank you for your trouble. But I��m really fine. How about you help me check my blood pressure and temperature to see if everything��s normal?" Joking! Friends with that old bastard? Feigning innocence. What a joke! Mr. Yan was quite put off by Bai Chuan; if not for some mutual friends, they would��ve already fallen out. But he didn��t want to make things difficult for the young woman, so he extended his arm to humor her and send her away.

    Bai Fann measured the blood pressure and said with a smile: "You��re getting on in years; you should be careful not to catch a cold." She started taking his temperature. She mentioned a few points of caution, and the old man simply listened quietly, with a smile on his face.

    Those who knew him well were aware that Mr. Yan wasn��t a kindly old man; the more he liked someone, the more he would yell at them. The kinder he was, the less he considered you part of his own.

    But Bai Fann didn��t know that; she thought she had won Mr. Yan��s favor. So she gathered the courage toin: "I heard the other day you went to the woods with a young girl, and she got injured too?"

    "Yes! That little girl is brave! Very strong, just too thin, and not very much exercised." At the mention of Sun Chan, he smiled, remembering that day when she got soaked trying to help him capture a thief. That��s a daughter of the army, no pretense!

    Bai Fann felt extremely ufortable inside, she was actually praised!

    No need to hurry, I��ll soon ensure your ruin!

    Bai Fann said with a smile, "Actually, she works as a caregiver at my hospital, so I know a bit about her. Old sir, you mustn��t be fooled by appearances."

    "What do you mean? Are you saying I��mcking in discernment?"

    Bai Fann noticed Mr. Yan��s somber expression and knew he was angry but pretended not to know, just sat there peeling an apple, and continued to eye-drop Sun Chan: "Girls these days have so many thoughts. Especially those from poor ces, who will stop at nothing for a better life. She ran away from a wedding, that��s not simple."

    "Ran away from a wedding?" The old man slightly frowned: "What happened?"

    Bai Fannbined what she had heard with some artistic embellishment and told the old man: "Her mother and sister arranged a marriage for her, she looked down on him for being from the countryside and didn��t want to stay there farming, so she ran to our hospital, and then had a big quarrel with them in the corridor. She��s unfilial to her mother and even had security throw them out, then ran off. Who would��ve thought she��d turn up here working as an aide. Her character... well, you best be careful, old sir. You saved her this time, but the word now is that she protected the leader. So, is she aiming for a formal position?"

    Daring to use even an officer, can such a girl be good? She believed that saying this would surely make Mr. Yan furious and drive her away.

    Back in these days, the expectations for girls were quite stringent, and reputation was very important.

    Running away from a wedding was already a huge usation. Especially since she fled for the splendor and wealth of the city, treated her mother and sister so poorly��it was outrageous!

    Hence Mr. Yan��s demeanor turned serious, his previously kind eyes now filled with coldness.

    Bai Fann saw andughed: "Actually, it��s not something that can��t be dealt with. I��ll have a word with the leadership here in a moment, and they can directly send her back. Without this job, she won��t want to leave but will have to. Such a person with dubious intention isn��t suitable to take care of leaders here."

    The old man pondered for a moment and then suddenly shouted, "Xiao Liu!"

    An orderly hurried in, saluted: "Sir?"

    "Go bring Sun Chan to me!"

    "Yes, sir!" Seeing the old chief in a bad mood, he didn��t dare to ask more questions and ran off immediately.

    Bai Fann quickly said, "Old sir, such a small matter, why bother to summon her? With your high status, why get involved? Just have the unit investigate and they��ll find out."

    Once her grandfather made a call, could Sun Chan still stay here?

    But the old man waved his hand: "No, even criminals need a chance to exin themselves, can��t convict them out of nowhere."

    Bai Fann forced a smile: "Does the old sir really trust her that much? I think you should just leave it to me. She��s no big deal."

    "This is my principle. That��s how it will be."

    "Then I��ll stay with you." Bai Fann decided not to leave, wanting to see Sun Chan lose face in front of her, dreaming of currying favor with the leader? Dream on!

    Soon, they saw the orderly return, knocking with Sun Chan in tow.

    Sun Chan was also out of breath, she was reading when summoned. The orderly only mentioned urgency without specifics, so she hurried over, quite anxious.

    The leader��s room was spacious, with sofas, tables, chairs, and even a TV, with a few flower pots on the windowsill. Very elegant.

    As Sun Chan entered and saw Bai Fann, she noticed Bai��s mocking and gloating expression, thinking you didn��t expect this, I��ve caught you slipping. Zhao Xiuxia and Sun Lijuan had made a scene at the school, this couldn��t be hidden from Bai Fann��seeing her like this, Sun Chan understood. She calmly stepped in front of Mr. Yan.

    "Sir, did you need me for something?" She didn��t address Bai Fann, nor did she look at her, but faced the old sir directly.

    "You still have the nerve to speak?" Before the old sir could respond, Bai Fann took the lead: "Did you thinking here means no one knows your past? Why didn��t you go back when your mother and sister came to fetch you to the countryside? Weren��t they chased away by you? We��ve been taught from young to respect and be filial to our parents. How could you abandon your fianc�� from the vige and run away? Is that eptable?"

 Chapter 42: Retaliate

    <h4>Chapter 42: Chapter 42: Retaliate</h4>

    Sun Chan stared directly at Bai Fann, "Doctor Bai, on the day my adoptive mother came, you weren��t supposed to be at the hospital. Who did you hear these things from?"

    Mr. Yan slightly twitched his brow upon hearing the words ��adoptive mother.��

    Bai Fann sneered, "If you don��t want people to know, don��t do it yourself. You really have a thick skin, to be chased out of the hospital and thene here eagerly, wanting to reach the heavens in one step? Truly ambitious beyond measure!"

    "Everything you��re saying hasn��t been thoroughly investigated. Just because you heard some gossip, you determine I��m vain and materialistic? Isn��t that a bit excessive? I haven��t even gotten engaged, so how could there be a broken engagement? Also, I��m working here, relying on my own efforts to earn a living. Who am I currying favor with? Doctor Bai, you��ve been degrading my character, is this the kind of upbringing your family taught you? It��s truly disheartening!" Sun Chan retorted with righteousness.

    Bai Fann was so upset her chest hurt; she was being looked down upon by a country girl!

    "Even now, you won��t admit it..."

    Sun Chan interrupted before she could finish, looking at the old man: "I��ve already reported my situation to my sister��s school. My adoptive mother, Zhao Xiuxia, wanted to sell me to a local vige scoundrel for a dowry of five hundred yuan. I couldn��t tolerate it and ran away. That day, she almost beat me to death because I refused to be sold off. You can verify this."

    Of course, Bai Fann didn��t believe her, thinking it was just an excuse to return to the countryside.

    She sneered, "You really know how to argue! I��ve heard it all��you only suck up to people in power, andtch on as soon as you see someone in good circumstances. Shameless! Even after I��ve exposed you, you dare not admit it. Old man, such a person cannot be tolerated, must be expelled! Disgusting!"

    "Doctor Bai, please watch your words! I may not have your privileged background or education, but I am also a person with dignity and self-respect, equal to you! What right do you have to trample on my character just because you look down on me? At the hospital, you tried in every possible way to get rid of me, now I��m working here, why do you still want me gone? Just because you want to show off your superiority by forcing me back to the vige? To me, it��s people like you who can��t stand others doing well that are truly nauseating!"

    In her days working here, she had heard many conversations from the chiefs and speeches during leaders�� meetings, and had learned quite a lot, making Bai Fann speechless and pale, standing up in anger.

    Mr. Yan lightly tapped his fingers on the table, sensing there was more to this��apparently they had a previous conflict. Bai Fann seemed to really dislike this girl?

    Bai Fann hurriedly said, "Sun Chan! Don��t act out in front of the leader! Your petty tricks won��t escape the chief��s eyes! Give it up. Do you think this is your vige entrance, fighting like a shrew? So uncivilized!"

    She once again disyed her old habits��eyes skewed, mouth twisted, full of spiteful and petty demeanor. The old chief slightly frowned, proving indeed one of Bai Chuan��s children, rather unimpressive.

    Sun Chan calmly replied, "I was just reasoning with you, never attacking you personally, yet you keep calling me uncivilized and a shrew. Is this the education you received? All in all, every step I take is with dignity and I��ve never tried to curry favor with anyone. My conscience is clear! If you don��t believe me, the chief can investigate to see if there are any fabrications!"

    Bai Fann rarely quarreled, being oppressed by someone she deemed inferior was unbearable, and her features twisted in frustration.

    "Chief, look at this woman, utterly unreasonable. You can��t let someone like this stay here, around the leaders every day, clearly harboring ulterior motives, she just wants to marry into the city..."

    "Enough." Mr. Yan waved his hand, "Mind your manners. You weren��t this impulsive before, Bai Fann. I can tell you have a big grievance against Sun Chan, so you��re unable to objectively see the issue. Let me say one thing��Sun Chan never had any solo contact with any leaders, this is her first time here, and hasn��t asked for anything just because she saved me."

    "She��s just hiding her ulterior motives, ready to seduce..."

    Mr. Yan spoke coldly, "How can you speak so nastily? Are you implying I have something going on with her? You��re being too much!"

    These words clearly questioned the old chief��s character, something Mr. Yan foundpletely uneptable��it was an immense insult to the character of an old revolutionary!

    "No, that��s not what I meant, I meant she��s insidious..."

    "Do you think someone who fought in revolutions and tackled spies couldn��t see through a young girl��s deceit?"

    Bai Fann hurried to exin, but the more she tried, the messier it got, seeing Sun Chan��s mocking smile, her face instantly turned pale, wishing she could p her, truly despicable!

    At this point, the director rushed over, "Mr. Yan, I heard you have issues with one of our employees? I quickly came over to check. Sun Chan is a temp worker here, if there��s a problem, I will take responsibility! I will definitely fire her."

    His father was once Mr. Yan��s subordinate, so every time he saw him, he felt quite intimidated, thus the director was a bit apprehensive before the old man.

    Sun Chan noticed Liu Qingshuang��s smug expression behind him and understood it was Liu Qingshuang who knew of the situation and came to add insult to injury.

    No need to ask��it was her who told Bai Fann about the alleged saving-for-gain incident.

    Mr. Yan spoke impatiently, "There��s no problem, I��m not some big figure, no need for rm. Doctor Bai misunderstood, Sun Chan is a good girl. She saved me a few days ago, fell sick after getting caught in the rain, and I haven��t had the chance to thank her. Today, in front of the director, state your request, I will certainly reward you."

    This was indeed a good opportunity; he thought the girl had it tough and wanted her to request something to secure her position here.

    Sun Chan shook her head, "Chief, I have no requests."

    "If you don��t ask now, I won��t acknowledge itter." Mr. Yan frowned, "How can this little girl be so coy? Just say it!"

    Sun Chan smiled, "I just want to work honestly here. Truly haven��t thought about anything else."

    "So pretentious..." Bai Fann saw Mr. Yan��s stern expression and swallowed thest word.

 Chapter 43: After modification - 43 You Should Resign

    <h4>Chapter 43: After modification: Chapter 43 You Should Resign</h4>

    Bai Fann knew that she couldn��t allow any unpleasantness while trying to foster family ties between her grandfather and the Yan Family during her visit. So, she ultimately held back and said nothing further.

    Mr. Yan turned to the director: "Did you hear that? Everything��s fine, don��t cause unnecessary trouble. I��m not a tyrant, the entire nursing home isn��t here just to serve me, right?"

    "Yes, yes, I was wrong. We��ll be leaving now, sir. We won��t disturb your rest," the director replied and then left, giving Liu Qingshuang a fierce re as he departed.

    There she was, in the office writing a report when suddenly she barged in, iming that the old chief was angry and wanted to fire Sun Chan, and even asked him to sign off on her sister-inwing to work. Luckily, he came to confirm first; otherwise, if the person was brought in and Sun Chan ended up being unaffected, what then?

    Liu Qingshuang was startled and quickly followed him, speaking softly: "Director, please listen to me! She is really cunning and despicable, not suitable for working here. It should be my sister-inw; she��s diligent and has a good nature..."

    The director wouldn��t listen: "This nursing home isn��t yours; just because you say someone shoulde, I have to let them in? Do your job well! If you cause more trouble, you won��t have to stay." After saying this, without looking at her, he walked away briskly.

    Liu Qingshuang stood there, almost in tears.

    There��s Doctor Bai, but why can��t it be done? The phone call has already been made; she wille tomorrow. There��s no way to chase her out now, is there?

    She was really dumbfounded this time, not knowing what to do.

    Meanwhile, Bai Fann noticed that Sun Chan hadn��t been driven away as she had wished. Her reputation had been entirely lost recently, all because of Sun Chan. She truly didn��t know what to do. Mr. Yan asked, "Alright, you��ve seen my health. How am I doing?"

    Bai Fann, focused on currying favor and wanting to get rid of Sun Chan, hadn��t given him a proper check-up. When Mr. Yan asked, she felt flustered, her face turning red.

    "Um... It��s good, really good."

    Mr. Yan could see that this girl wasn��t genuinely concerned about him but was just trying to get close.

    He smiled kindly: "Since it��s good, you should go back! It��s gettingte, tell the driver to be careful on the road."

    "I understand, sir. I��ll head back now," she said, turned around, and left without a nce at Sun Chan standing nearby.

    Sun Chan, naturally, didn��t greet her either.

    Bai Fann sat inside the car, covering her flushed face with her hands, almost crying. She had traveled so far to see Mr. Yan, yet wasn��t even invited for a meal; if people found out, would she still have any face left? Thinking about this made her hate Sun Chan even more, feeling that this woman was her nemesis for life. Only when she reached the camp did she realize Gu Junming wasn��t there either, leaving dejectedly.

    Sun Chan said, "Well sir, I��m leaving now. Please rest."

    "Wait a moment!" The chief looked at Sun Chan: "You don��t have any wishes? I��m genuinely wanting to help you; if you want to be officially recognized..."

    Sun Chan quickly replied with a smile: "I understand, but I think things are fine as they are now. I��ll work hard; I don��t want people to gossip about you helping me. Besides, if we did that, wouldn��t it prove that my intentions in approaching you are impure?"

    Who knew Mr. Yan would p the table: "What��s the matter with you, young girl? I say something, you argue back? It��s settled then! Let��s not say any more, I��ll inform the director to make you officially recognized!"

    Sun Chan, firm in her stance, replied: "If you really do that, then I��ll have to leave here. I don��t want people talking behind my back every day, saying I got the job by cozying up to the chief. I can��t agree to that. If there��s nothing else, I��ll be heading out." She bowed and walked out directly.

    Mr. Yan watched her leaving figure, not speaking for a long time, a trace of a smile on his lips.

    As Sun Chan was leaving, she saw Liu Qingshuang waiting outside. Seeing here out, Liu rushed over and grabbed her arm, looking at Sun Chan excitedly: "I need to talk to you, please help me!"

    Sun Chan looked at her coldly: "What is it?"

    "Resign, please!" Liu Qingshuang said, tears forming in her eyes: "Sun Chan, we��ve known each other for so long; I know you��re kind, and I know you wouldn��t make things difficult for people. To be honest, I want my sister-inw to work here; I��ve already discussed it with my inws, and we can definitely get her in! But now that you��re here, they give me a hard time every day and even incite my partner to treat me badly. If I don��t find her a job soon, my rtionship will fall apart."

    Sun Chan frowned slightly, looking at Liu Qingshuang: "Why should I resign? Just because you want to live, do I have to die?"

    "Sun Chan, have mercy on me..." She kept crying: "Your character and abilities are good; you��ll surely find work elsewhere. It��s not easy for my sister-inw, I��m begging you to help me!"

    Sun Chan sneered: "If you��re so concerned about her, why don��t you give up your job? I haven��t even seen the back of your sister-inw��s head, why should I give her my job?"

    "How can you be like this!" Liu Qingshuang shouted, frustrated: "If I lose my job, will my partner still want me? It��s not easy for me to find a partner with such good conditions. How can you be so selfish not to consider helping me?"

    Why doesn��t this country girl understand my words? I��ve pleaded so much, yet she remains unmoved!

    Sun Chan grew more disgusted with this woman: "Selfish? Why don��t you ask the leader who��s more selfish between us? Just because I��m kind, you can openly bully me? You want to please your sister-inw by sacrificing me? Even when you��ve previously insulted my reputation, letting me suffer without help?"

    Yang Liu had already told her that when she was lost outside, Liu Qingshuang not only mocked her but also prevented anyone from helping. Luckily, nothing happened; if people really believed Liu Qingshuang and ignored them, both the old chief with unclear head and not recognizing the way, the elderly, and the thief could all be in danger. How selfish could one be, and now she dared to yell at her.

    "If you want your sister-inw toe in, resign yourself! Sacrifice for your inws; they��ll be grateful. Otherwise, go ask someone else; see who is willing to give up their job for your sister-inw. Do you think I��m a pushover, easy to bully? No way! I don��t covet what��s not mine, but I won��t easily give up what��s mine!" Sun Chan said, then pushed past Liu Qingshuang and walked away briskly.

 Chapter 44: Came Looking

    <h4>Chapter 44: Chapter 44: Came Looking</h4>

    Liu Qingshuang bit her lip, watching her back. This woman really doesn��t know what��s good for her! What to do about tomorrow? Without a job after her sister-inw arrives, won��t she eat her alive? She��s going crazy, yet Sun Chan has no intention of giving up her job. It��s really too difficult!

    Why can��t Sun Chan consider her situation a little? It��s all her fault! Liu Qingshuang gritted her teeth, clenched her fists, thought for a moment, and then went to the Director to request leave to return to the city.

    There��s only one night left, she must make Sun Chan submit. I have to go hard, dare not listen to me, and I��ll make you lose face so you can��t survive!

    Sun Chan didn��t know her n. Since it was full of old leadership cadres inside, the canteen had a "Remembering Hardship, Thinking of Sweetness" day, with very simple meals, only cabbage stewed with potatoes, plus two sorghum and cornmeal buns.

    The spinach soup, however, was free to drink. Arge pot was ced over there, with bright green spinach boiled in water with a little salt, no oil spots, and not a single egg, so almost no one drank it.

    For Sun Chan, who had suffered enough hardships, this meal was already quite good. She ate with enjoyment alone, but Yang Liu kept frowning. She already didn��t feel much like eating. After hearing about Liu Qingshuang��s demands from Sun Chan, she was even more furious, rolling her eyes awake.

    "What nonsense! She tells you to give it up, and you do? Who is she to! Let here to me, see if I don��t tear her hair out, it makes me so angry!"

    Sun Chan pressed her down with a smile: "It��s okay, it��s not a big deal. I��m just not agreeing. Does she think she can kill me?"

    "Not a big deal! What shameless people in this world!"

    Sun Chan smiled, thinking you haven��t seen my stepmother yet; you��ll drop your jaw then.

    The two were eating when someone came in through the canteen door, looked inside, and walked straight toward Sun Chan, stretching his arms out with a face full of joyful excitement upon seeing her.

    "Finally found you! I��ve missed you so much, I thought I��d never see you again!"

    Sun Chan��s mouth twitched, what was he saying in public?

    The one who came was indeed Han Dong. The guy actually ran to X city!

    This time he wasn��t in a floral shirt and bell-bottoms, but in a simple white shirt and ck pants, with shiny ck leather shoes, looking very refreshed.

    Though Sun Chan was angry, she couldn��t help but smile: "Could you mind your influence a bit, Han Dongrade."

    "Aren��t I happy to see you?"

    "That still doesn��t mean you can hug, sit down. Have you eaten?"

    Han Dong was not polite, quickly grabbing the cornmeal bun from Sun Chan��s te and gobbling it up: "I came after hearing your news, how could I have had time to eat, I��m starving!"

    Yang Liu on the side curiously asked: "Who is this? Your boyfriend?"

    Sun Chan hurriedly denied: "No! He��s my... brother."

    Han Dong widened his eyes: "What? I��m clearly much older than you, and you little girl dare call me your brother? Besides, I just temporarily said we��re not dating, but I still want to pursue you, now how did I be your brother?"

    "You��re my brother because I say so. I need to talk to him alone." Sun Chan greeted Yang Liu, then took Han Dong aside. Of course, to ask what was going on.

    Han Dong exined, saying he got his parents to find him a job, worked honestly for a few days, and then couldn��t take it anymore. He came during lunch break to show Sun Chan his change, who knew she had left, and heard she was beaten up badly before leaving, and got fired by the patient��s family at the hospital.

    This made Han Dong anxious, so he hurried to the market and shopping mall to find Lin Hongmei.

    Lin Hongmei was missing him like crazy, thinking about nothing, hoping to marry him and be a rich man��s wife.

    The dorm roommates were toozy to care, her heart was burning with desire. When dating him, she didn��t even know where his house was, only met when Han Dong came to find her. She thought after driving Sun Chan away, she could be with Han Dong again. So when she saw Han Donge, she was about to cry,

    "Why did you onlye now, I knew you had me in your heart." She emoted: "I forgive you, let��s just register for marriage now, don��t waste time anymore."

    "What are you talking about? I��m asking, where did Sun Chan go, didn��t she live with you guys before, where could she have gone now?" He directly asked.

    Lin Hongmei��s smile froze instantly, as if a thunderbolt struck her head; he really is into Sun Chan! Even after driving her away, he still thinks about that bitch!

    Han Dong saw her silent, asked again: "Did you hear me, do you have her news, where is she now..."

    Lin Hongmei suddenly rushed into Han Dong��s arms and started tearing: "You heartless guy, seduced by a fox spirit, dumped me, and came to me for news. I��ll tell you! She��s in the countryside with a husband, but she didn��t like him and ran away, her mom and sister chased after her, she wouldn��t return, she just ran, she��s a fickle bitch, and you still think of her?"

    Just as she finished, Wang Dan couldn��t take it, she had long seen Han Dong go to the men��s department, heard them call Sun Chan��s name, came over to listen. As Sun Chan worked there, she hadn��t told anyone, how could Zhao Xiuxia find out, she seriously suspected Lin Hongmei secretly told someone.

    Now hearing her insult Sun Chan, she got angry, pointed at her nose, and shouted, "Stop throwing mud, when did she get married, she just didn��t want to be sold to a slob by her stepmother in the vige, Zhao Xiuxia is a malicious woman, almost beating Sun Chan to death for her daughter!"

    "Stop defending her, if not for Sun Chan leading, would Han Dong have dumped me? You��re all shameless animals!"

    Wang Dan coldly smiled, pointing at Han Dong: "If he really liked you, would he look for someone else? I don��t know others, but I know Sun Chan; she doesn��t even fancy Han Dong!"

    Lin Hongmei went mad with anger, and Han Dong also felt ufortable, what does this mean? Am I really that bad?

    The two girls started arguing, and everyone separated them.

    Wang Dan said: "No matter what, Sun Chan is already gone, Lin Hongmei, your nder won��t work, if I hear you say one more bad word about her, see how I deal with you!"

 Chapter 45: Poisonous Scheme

    <h4>Chapter 45: Chapter 45: Poisonous Scheme</h4>

    Lin Hongmei was still cursing Sun Chan as being indecent: "Luckily, she left, otherwise how could it stop with just staying by my boyfriend��s side? She��d better stop pestering him, or I won��t be polite!"

    Wang Dan red at her: "Was it you who told Sun Lijuan about what happened to Sun Chan in the hospital?"

    "So what if it was me? Who asked her to be so shameless and seduce people? You need to be careful being with someone like her, your inws won��t be happy!"

    Han Dong��s face becamepletely grim. This woman was hopeless, but thinking about it, he felt a bit guilty since he was the one who first said she flirted with him. It was his fault that Sun Chan got cursed by Lin Hongmei and fell into such bad luck.

    Wang Dan was very upset. You��re not willing to let Sun Chan meet Han Dong, are you? Then I��ll make sure they meet, just to spite you!

    She simply pulled Han Dong aside: "I have her address!"

    "Really?"

    "Yeah. We were in correspondence. You should properly apologize to her." She gave the address to Han Dong.

    Han Dong, very excited, immediately followed the address.

    Sun Chan sighed: "Aren��t you supposed to be at work?"

    "That job is really boring. I��m not naturally the type to sit in an office. If it weren��t for you, I wouldn��t be doing it."

    Sun Chan gave him a re: "Stop saying things like that. My reputation is already not great now, being used of vanity, not willing to return to the countryside, trying to climb up high branches. If you keep talking that way, Lin Hongmei will want to kill me, and nobody will want me for the rest of my life."

    "Lin Hongmei ispletely unrted to me now. I gave her two hundred yuan and a watch, and we��repletely done." If no one wants you, I want you, but he didn��t dare say that out loud, trying hard to make a good impression.

    Initially, he wanted to offer her five hundred yuan, but before he could speak, Lin Hongmei took the initiative: "I can��t just sleep with you for nothing. Two hundred yuan and a Hongmei watch. If you don��t agree, I��ll use you of molesting me!"

    Han Dong was all too eager to agree, and they broke it off like that.

    Sun Chan nodded: "That girl isn��t very stable, breaking up is the right move. Don��t ever do such things again. Let��s go eat."

    "You really see yourself as my elder sister, don��t you? Why do you sound so elderly when you speak?" Han Dong looked at her curiously. She��s only seventeen but speaks like an elder.

    Sun Chan smiled slightly, having lived another life, isn��t she just like an elder? Sun Chan took Han Dong back, and on the way, she asked how he got in: "You��re not an employee here, nor do you have an introduction letter. Did you climb over the wall?"

    "Do I need to climb walls? I got my mom to call the director here, and that��s how I got in. I used toe here often as a kid. She was furious when she found out I quit my job, but there��s nothing she can do if I like you." Han Dongughed casually.

    Sun Chan didn��t think his background was impressive, just thought this guy lived really freely and easily.

    She bought another meal with meal tickets, and the three of them ate together. Han Dong was naturally good with words, and in a few lines, he made Yang Liu giggle and very happy.

    After dinner, Han Dong escorted the two girls to the girls�� dormitory and went to the local guesthouse to rest.

    As soon as they entered the hallway, they saw several girlsing out together. It turned out Liu Qingshuang was missing. A note was left on the table, saying her sister-inw was forcing her to find a job, and Sun Chan wouldn��t give up her position, so she couldn��t go on living. Everyone hurriedly went out to look for her.

    Yang Liu frowned upon hearing this: "What is this, moral coercion? Your issues with your sister-inw are for you to solve, why drag Sun Chan into it? Have some shame, let her die for all I care!"

    Sun Chan pulled her back: "Forget it, why are you so hot-headed?"

    "Yeah, Yang Liu," a young girl said. "Let��s split up and look for her. They��re conducting an excellent unit evaluation here, and if she really dies, it will definitely affect things. The director called and asked us to look for her, and he��ll be here shortly."

    Yang Liu sneered: "Whether she lives or dies is none of my business! I��m going to sleep. If the director finds out, I��ll take the punishment myself." With that, she stormed back to the dorm.

    Yang Liu left, but Sun Chan couldn��t just leave it, so she joined the others in searching since her name was specifically mentioned in the letter. Though the thought of it made her uneasy, if something really happened, her job would definitely be affected. Damn that woman.

    Sun Chan and the others split up to search around the flowerbeds, considering if she was really nning to end it, she wouldn��t choose a pleasant ce. She wanted to check if anyone was near the pond at the back.

    Just as she was looking, a shadow suddenly approached from behind, lunging in Sun Chan��s direction.

    Sun Chan acted quickly, kicking the person on the kneecap, causing him to grunt and fall to the ground. Despite the pain, he still held onto Sun Chan��s leg, and before she could call for help, he covered her mouth tightly, preventing her from making any sound.

    Hearing Liu Qingshuang��s voice: "Cousin, hurry! Help me strip her clothes!"

    "I��m on it!" The person stood up.

    Sun Chan understood. Liu Qingshuang got her cousin involved to ruin her reputation!

    Behind her, Liu Qingshuang said: "You forced me. I asked you nicely, and you didn��t agree, so I had no other choice. When you��re found here naked, people will think you were fooling around with someone, and the organization won��t want someone like you!"

    "Mmmph..." Sun Chan struggled constantly, feeling immense hatred inside. Damn Liu Qingshuang!

    In this era, issues around male-female rtionships were still taken very seriously, especially in such a good unit. They couldn��t have any scandals. If she was found naked, even if nothing happened, it would be disastrous!

    Thinking about this made Liu Qingshuang involuntarily joyful. With her sister-inw��s issue resolved, she could marry smoothly too!

    As for what happened to Sun Chan, she didn��t care! Coming from the countryside, her reputation wasn��t important. She could just go back to farming.

    But little did she know, her cousin had different ideas.

    Sun Chan used all her strength to resist, but the two of them were very strong, and they quickly pinned her to the grass. The cousin even tried to kiss her neck.

    Sun Chan was extremely upset, why did she go out of her way to help her? Seeing Liu Qingshuang wasn��t in the dorm, she was actually worried she��d reallymit suicide, but they were actually trying to harm her! It��s too much! Is this even human?

 Chapter 46: Losing Face

    <h4>Chapter 46: Chapter 46: Losing Face</h4>

    "Liu Qingshuang, you��re not human, boo hoo..." Sun Chan��s words were cut off as the man covered her mouth. Her heart was pounding wildly, filled with rage, this was truly shameless! Even more shameless than Zhao Xiuxia!

    Liu Qingshuang proudly held her shoulders down: "Don��t me me! Who asked you to fight with me for the job. I told you to leave, but you wouldn��t. Don��t worry, my cousin won��t really do anything to you! Just taking some pictures, if you agree to resign, we��ll let you go! We��ll return the photos too; if you don��t agree, I��ll have to make you lose face publicly!"

    As she spoke, she shook the camera in her hand. She was determined to do whatever it took to get the job for her sister-inw!

    Sun Chan red at her with eyes full of hatred.

    Seeing Sun Chan like this, Liu Qingshuang understood she wouldn��t give in: "Then there��s no choice, you��ll only have yourself to me for your disgrace! You should��ve given the job to me!"

    Sun Chan said nothing, her hands began to feel around her surroundings and came upon a stone. The man was already breathing heavily.

    "Cousin, what are you doing!" Liu Qingshuang suddenly saw her cousin, his cheeks flushed, wanting to kiss Sun Chan, and she was instantly terrified.

    "Go stand guard outside! I can��t help you for nothing, can I? I deserve some reward, right?" Her cousin hurriedly unbuttoned his shirt; the girl was quite pretty. He thought he might as well make her his wife, since his family was poor and couldn��t afford one, and even if she resisted now, he��d eventually win her over. Then he could beat and scold her as he pleased, and dare her to resist?

    "Let go of me!" Sun Chan cried, not in fear but in rage, it was simply too vile, too shameless.

    "You forced my hand!" Liu Qingshuang thought for a moment and walked quickly outside. It might as well end here. After all, she wouldn��t forgive herself.

    In the future, if she married her cousin, she��d just give Sun Chan some extra wedding money!

    Sun Chan consciously gave up resisting, rxing the man��s attention.

    He was dreaming of marrying her when suddenly there was a heavy blow to the back of his head. Sun Chan��s hand was still holding a stone, but she hadn��t struck him, so what was going on? She was puzzled when he copsed heavily on her. Sun Chan grunted and then saw Han Dong.

    He was holding a muchrger stone, speaking softly: "Damn it! Someone dares to bully you? Watch me handle him!"

    It turned out he had returned to the guesthouse, only to remember he forgot to give Sun Chan the food he��d brought for her, so he rushed back. Seeing her in the distance as she seemed to be seeking someone, he followed and discovered she had been deceived. Anger surged within him, prompting him to rush over and knock the person out.

    Seeing Han Dong, Sun Chan��s mouth was agape, just as she was about to speak, he put his finger to his lips. He pulled Sun Chan up, recalling what had just happened, and kicked the man hard. Hey there motionless, with some blood on his head.

    Han Dong then headed straight for Liu Qingshuang.

    Liu Qingshuang heard footsteps and turned back, asking: "Is it done? Boo hoo..."

    Han Dong didn��t wait for her to see him, using the stone in Sun Chan��s hand to gently knock her on the temple. Her eyes rolled back and she fainted.

    Meanwhile, people outside had begun shouting Liu Qingshuang��s name loudly, making their way over.

    Sun Chan walked outside with a livid face: "I��m going to tell them what these two did!"

    "No," Han Dong stopped her, saying: "If this gets out, they��ll face the consequences, but what about you? Would you let them ruin your good name? Trust me, don��t say more, just leave. I��ll cover for you, saying the two are dating here, ensuring you��re not implicated. They won��t dare say much."

    His words made sense, even if it was proven he intended to assault her, Sun Chan would still be gossiped about. That��s why Liu Qingshuang dared to be so bold. After all, Sun Chan would be the one disgraced, giving them confidence!

    "What about you?"

    "I��ll leave immediately. Just go, if people see this it can��t be exined." Han Dong urged her to leave.

    Sun Chan was furious, but there was no better option. She kicked Liu Qingshuang again, then tossed the two together, and ran out to the woods to call for help, telling them she found Liu Qingshuang.

    Soon after heading out, she met her coworkers, who greeted her, asking if she saw Liu Qingshuang.

    "We��ve looked everywhere, but didn��t see her! Did something happen?"

    "Actually, I saw a silhouette on the edge of the woods, not sure if it was her," Sun Chan bit her lip and said.

    "Really? Why didn��t you go find her?"

    "Well..." Remembering earlier, Sun Chan��s face turned pale, really hard to say: "Let��s just go check first, we��ll talkter!"

    Together, everyone walked towards the woods, Sun Chan trailing behind, pondering how to exin this matter to them. Couldn��t just say the two were messing around, right? When they reached the edge, the girls in front all screamed and ran back, covering their eyes.

    "Oh my! What is that? So disgusting!"

    An older married sister spat on the ground: "Ugh! Absolutely disgraceful!"

    Sun Chan was stunned, craning her neck to see, feeling a bit muddled.

    The two were stark naked hugging each other. It wasn��t supposed to be like this, it must��ve been Han Dong��s doing, the fellow was really bold and reckless, daring to do such a thing? Sun Chan was anxious, swaying slightly, luckily supported by the older sister behind her. As for Han Dong, he was long gone.

    "No wonder Sun Chan looked so unhappy earlier, seeing such a thing, how could she be okay?"

    "What do we do now?"

    "Get some guys to help, how can we handle this?" After all, there was still a naked man over there. Though the sister was married, they couldn��t be too brazen.

    Everyone went to find security, and someone threw clothes over the two, feeling quite disdainful. What a mess! Liu Qingshuang��s figure wasn��t really great, not very fair either, giving many of the young onlookers a shock!

    The sister took Sun Chan��s hand: "You must��ve been scared just now, take some calming medicine when you��re back."

    Sun Chan said with effort: "I��m fine, really. I��m just a bit ufortable."

    "Good, that��s right, we��re modern youth, we must be brave," the sister said.

    The older sister was also somewhat rattled, such an eye-sore wasn��t for young unmarried girls like Sun Chan to see. If this were to spread, the entire unit��s reputation would be ruined, but such a big deal likely couldn��t be kept hidden. Plus, those searching girls�� continuous screams had already attracted the security guards�� attention, they were rushing over.

 Chapter 47: The Outcome

    <h4>Chapter 47: Chapter 47: The Oue</h4>

    Someone asked what to do, should it just be handled internally with a disciplinary action.

    The eldest sister firmly said, "Absolutely not! This must be reported."

    A young girl hurriedly said, "Isn��t it bad to do this? Won��t Sister Qing Shuang be in trouble, can she still work here? They��re just dating, it��s not a heinous crime, so why make it such a big deal? Why not resolve it internally in the canteen? Deduct a few months�� bonuses?"

    This girl was quite kind-hearted. A few others quickly agreed.

    However, the eldest sister yelled, "What do you know! This isn��t about dating or not. It��s the fact that outsiders were casually brought here, and in such a ce.... Here.... Do you know what kind of ce this is? It��s a ce where old cadres and revolutionary leaderse for recuperation. If something truly happens, can you take responsibility? If word gets out, how will it reflect on our unit? Do we still want to be a model unit?"

    This eldest sister used to work at the city��s generalbor union but never had the opportunity for promotion. She was ultimately pushed aside to the canteen here. She finally encountered an issue where she could showcase her working ability, so of course she wouldn��t let it go. This is a workers�� quality issue and must be firmly dealt with!

    Everyone fell silent.

    The eldest sister saw that everyone agreed with her, so she quickly went to make a call to the Director.

    Sun Chan was not concerned with how Liu Qingshuang and her cousin were dragged to the security department, or how the two of them shouted and begged for mercy. She returned to her dormitory, knowing the other party wouldn��t let her go, but she wouldn��t admit anything. She was so frightened by such a scare that she felt muddled, and in the evening she developed a fever. Her face was flushed, and she kept coughing.

    Yang Liu was terribly worried: "How can this be? I��m going to call Doctor Wang from the health office!"

    "Don��t go!" Sun Chan pulled Yang Liu back: "It��s already sote, I��m just scared, I��ll be fine." She wasn��t only frightened by Liu Qingshuang and her wicked cousin but also by Han Dong. How daring and reckless this guy is! He actually dared to do such a thing!

    Yang Liu said, "Sun Chan, did those two really go bare naked... well...?"

    Sun Chan coughed a few times and then said, "I don��t know."

    It was already good enough not to throw mud at you.

    Yang Liu sighed, walked out, and soon returned with a wet towel to ce on her forehead. As for Han Dong, he had long gone back to sleep.

    No wall is without cracks. That very night, Liu Qingshuang��s incident spread throughout the entire sanatorium.

    It was said that she brought a man over to steal things and incidentally forced Liu Qingshuang. Some even said this man wanted to peep and saw Liu Qingshuang, then they ended up together. Others said the two had long been together, messing around with Liu Qingshuang. Otherwise, how could they be so daring to fool around outside? As for how they were beaten, maybe it was during Liu Qingshuang��s resistance. Some even said that someone couldn��t stand it and beat this adulterous pair. In any case, there were various opinions, and everyone was so excited they didn��t sleep well all night. They had dark circles under their eyes the next morning.

    The leadership quickly learned about this matter, and their face turned as ck as the bottom of a pot��unbelievable!

    "The nature of this is particrly vile, morally extremely corrupt! The male must be detained, the female expelled, sent directly home."

    A subordinate said, "But what if she was forced?"

    "Forced? A decent girl��s staying upte and unting around near the woods? Can��t have her!"

    The leadership made the decision, and the notification was passed down.

    When Liu Qingshuang woke up, she found herself lying in the security department with someone else��s clothes draped over her. She panicked, and after hearing the decision about her, she waspletely dumbfounded, then screamed, "Don��t fire me! I can��t lose this job!"

    "With your reputation like this, if our unit keeps you, wouldn��t we beughed at to death? It��s not possible anymore, you better think about your future."

    Without a job and with no good reputation, hugging someone else naked, could her parents-inw still want her? Her family was initially dissatisfied with her anyway!

    But who listened to her? She was utterly finished. She thought of the causes and consequences��it was Sun Chan!

    She gritted her teeth and shouted, "How can you do this to me, it��s clearly Sun Chan! She��s the one who set us up!"

    The Director frowned, "Are you saying Sun Chan knocked you two out and then stripped your clothes?"

    "It was her! She did it, my cousin and I couldn��t have been together. We were just taking a walk by theke, discussing marriage matters, and she set us up. She��s so vicious, I want to sue her!" Seeing things hade to this, she couldn��t let Sun Chan have it all! Even if she died, she��d drag her down with her.

    The cousin also said it was Sun Chan who hit him, and she must not be let go!

    Someone came to the dormitory to find Sun Chan, asking her to confront Liu Qingshuang.

    Yang Liu angrily said, "Can��t you see she��s like this? How can she go confront? Do you have a brain? Sun Chan is only eighty pounds, how could she knock two people out, thinking she��s a martial arts master?"

    The few people felt wronged, why are we being scolded, we��re just following orders.

    Sun Chan struggled to sit up on the bed: "I��ll go talk to her."

    She had already anticipated that the two might do this to her, and she had nned to deny everything. How could she have the strength to deal with both of them? Besides, they wouldn��t dare reveal their real intentions. But before she went for the confrontation, her cousin already confessed.

    At this point, someone hurriedly came over andforted Sun Chan: "You don��t have to go, it��s nothing to do with you. That bastard confessed himself!"

    He said he lost control when his cousin took him around. He was willing to do anything to seek his cousin��s forgiveness.

    Sun Chan was stunned. What��s going on?

    When she saw him, she understood. His face was bruised, and his arm was dislocated. When asked what happened, he said he identally caused it himself. He also said when things were getting intimate with Liu Qingshuang, she heard someone calling her name and regretted it, so she hit him with a stone, identally hitting her own head too. So they both passed out.

    Liu Qingshuang screamed, "No! How could Cousin do this, it wasn��t like that, it was Sun Chan!"

    "Bah!" The eldest sister spat, "How could Sun Chan beat you two? I just can��t believe it! You two messed around on your own, what does it have to do with others? I knew you didn��t get along with her, but you have to implicate her in this, are you shameless?"

    With this, Liu Qingshuang was directly fired, and her cousin was detained for three months.

    Liu Qingshuang kept crying at the gate, but there was no way to restore the situation.

    She could only carry her luggage home but was driven away by her parents before she even reached the alley entrance: "Get out at once! We don��t have someone like you in our family!"

 Chapter 48: Irreversible

    <h4>Chapter 48: Chapter 48: Irreversible</h4>

    Mrs. Liu was both angry and heartbroken, pulling her daughter and constantly scolding her through tears: "You wretched girl, what are you up to? Are you so desperate for a man? You have a fianc�� but still sneaked into the woods with your cousin? Not only did you harm us, but you harmed your cousin too!"

    Now, not only is the daughter ruined, but even the son of her brother��s family is done for.

    People had alreadye earlier to wreak havoc, and the good young man was thrown into the detention center. How could his reputation remain intact? They were already poor, and now finding a partner would be even harder! Originally good rtions between the two families were now at odds. All of this was caused by Liu Qingshuang, this unfilial daughter!

    Liu Qingshuang saw her usually doting parents suddenly be so heartless, and she cried too.

    "It��s not my fault, I was framed!"

    "Shut up! Wasn��t it you who took your cousin there? What else is there to say? You were caught naked and your reputation is ruined!" Mr. Liu was so enraged he wished he could strangle his daughter: "I��ll pretend I never had a daughter like you! Don��te home; it��s embarrassing! You live a good life and only know how to disgrace yourself! Hurry up and find a date to get married! Once a daughter is married, she��s like water sshed out. Any future incidents will have nothing to do with us. Let��s just leave it at that!" If it had been another man, it wouldn��t have mattered; she could just marry him straight away. But it was her cousin, and thew doesn��t even allow such marriages! How absurd!

    Anyway, once married, even if the mother-inwter finds out, just deny it to the end, and surely the son wouldn��t divorce her over this.

    However, as she was plotting, her future mother-inw arrived. Seeing Liu Qingshuang��s grim expression from a distance, Liu Qingshuang��s mind buzzed, nearly causing her to copse to the ground.

    She remembered that she personally called yesterday, asking her mother-inw to take her sister-inw over there, saying the job was arranged. There was no need to ask; given the situation, they must have heard about her incident.

    Mrs. Liu was very nervous, letting go of her daughter and quickly walked over: "Inw, you are..."

    But the woman acted as if she hadn��t heard, bypassed Mrs. Liu with a stern face, and walked to Liu Qingshuang, throwing a red cloth bundle in her face: "These are some of the clothes you gave our family before. Calling off the engagement!"

    Liu Qingshuang frantically tried to grab her: "Aunt..."

    "Don��t touch me, filthy!" The woman gave Liu Qingshuang a dirty look without saying another word, she walked away directly.

    Originally, she wasn��t very satisfied with this daughter-inw, but considering she had a decent job and could help get her own daughter in too, she reluctantly agreed.

    Yet, bringing her daughter along to find people earlier in the morning, she heard what Liu Qingshuang did, almost fainting from it. She was a highly respected teacher, and now she��s being mocked because her future daughter-inw fooled around with another man in the woods. Her lifelong reputation was ruined! If they really got married, spit from the gossip would probably drown her!

    Mrs. Liu wanted to chase her, but Mr. Liu pulled her back: "Forget it, things are like this now. Why chase? Pack things and let the girl leave!"

    "Mom, help me!" She threw herself at her mother: "I was truly wronged, my cousin and I did nothing!"

    Mrs. Liu pushed away her hand, reluctantly saying: "Keeping you here, I wouldn��t be able to face your uncle! You��ve messed up his son��s life so much, you better note back for now, or you��ll be the one getting beaten! Go to your Third Grandpa elsewhere, wait for the situation to settle down and thene back."

    Liu Qingshuang anxiously tugged at her sleeve: "No, Third Grandpa��s ce is the countryside. I won��t go! Mom, please, beg Aunt, I can��t call off the engagement. I don��t want to end the engagement!"

    The thought of going to that impoverished and isted ce, having to do farm work, made her want to die!

    "We have no choice..."

    "Cut the nonsense, whether you go or not is up to you, you figure it out if you don��t go!" Mr. Liu yelled, pulling his wife away in a huff.

    Liu Qingshuang stood on the street with her suitcase, crying out loud; yesterday she was still a worker that everyone envied for the good treatment, but today she became a notorious figure, losing her job, her engagement, even her parents didn��t want her.

    She went back to the sanatorium, ready to fight Sun Chan to the bitter end, but to her surprise, she wasn��t even allowed in.

    Liu Qingshuang took a bold approach and shouted outside: "Sun Chan, you shameless thing, seducing my cousin and harming me. May you die a horrible death! I won��t let you off!"

    Having heard, Sun Chan came out, looking at her through the iron gate.

    Liu Qingshuang cried in anger: "Are you satisfied now? Happy? You��ve ruined me so terribly, my reputation and job are both gone!"

    Sun Chan sneered: "You feel aggrieved now? Last night when you tried to harm me, did you ever think about how I��d live afterwards? You still have the nerve toe to me, if I reveal the truth, both of you could be executed!"

    Liu Qingshuang shuddered all over, knowing Sun Chan wasn��t lying, but still couldn��t ept it: "My cousin said he��s willing to marry you, you being from the countryside..."

    "I��m from the countryside, just because someone wants me, should I marry them? Should I marry a lousy rascal? You��ve bothered me time and again, I couldn��t be bothered. Did you think I��m easy to bully? You deserve all this, stop bothering me!" Sun Chan said and turned away, unable to quell her anger at the thought of what Liu Qingshuang had done to her.

    Liu Qingshuang was unwilling, still crying and cursing about how Sun Chan ruined her entire life, but then the security director stepped out.

    "For now, find a ce toy low,ter you can find a new job, nobody will know about this. If you keep making trouble, we��ll detain you for three months for disrupting production. If you tarnish your reputation, you might as well forget about getting married!"

    Feeling helpless, Liu Qingshuang had no choice but to go to Third Grandpa��s home, or else her entire life might be ruined.

    Once she left, a shadow shed across the side bushes, it was Han Dong.

    The security chief smiled: "This n really worked, we don��t even need to bother arresting people."

    "It��s all my brother��s idea, someday soon I��ll treat you all to a meal." Han Dong finished, whistled, and leisurely went to find Sun Chan.

    At that moment, the cafeteria had Sun Chan drinking porridge, feeling unwell so she couldn��t eat much.

    Seeing Han Dong sitting opposite her, she slightly frowned.

    "Why aren��t you happy?" Han Dong smiled.

    "Isn��t what you did too immoral? I didn��t expect you to do this." After all, it involved a girl��s entire life, which was hard for her to ept.

    "Being merciful to your enemies is being cruel to yourself, my brother said if we don��t uproot her, she��ll still harm you, and this matter, no matter what, is a problem. We can��t let her get away; otherwise, her words could be taken seriously. There��s no other way. Think about it, if they seeded, would she feel bad for you?"

 Chapter 49 Brothers

    <h4>Chapter 49: Chapter 49 Brothers</h4>

    Sun Chan didn��t speak, and she agreed. Of course Liu Qingshuang wouldn��t feel sorry for her; if something really happened, Liu would stomp on her all the way to death. No matter what, Liu Qingshuang still had her own family to rely on, while Sun Chan had absolutely no one.

    "Don��t worry, that cousin won��t dare to say a word more, unless he wants to be executed by firing squad!" Han Dong didn��t know where he got a boiled egg from, peeled it for her, and put it in the porridge bowl: "My big brother won��t say more either, he��s a really good person! Although he��s not my biological brother, ever since he returned from the countryside, he��s lived at our house for four or five years, being part of our family till he joined the army at eighteen. We��ll meet up sometime."

    Sun Chan certainly hadn��t thought about meeting his big brother, but she thought what he said was indeed reasonable.

    When the timees, Liu Qingshuang just has to say: "My cousin hooked up with Sun Chan, meeting secretly in the middle of the night."

    Then it would be indefensible, and anyone associated with such messy affairs would have their reputation ruined.

    "Eat!" Han Dong said, "What are you thinking? Feeling unwell?"

    "I know you��re doing this for my own good. No matter what, thank you." Last night, Sun Chan kept having nightmares, memories of being bullied by Zhou Jinzhu and Ding Hu in her past life, the terrifying look of Liu Qingshuang��s cousin, all scared her awake several times. Adding on a fever, her clothes were soaked in sweat but she didn��t dare to tell anyone, her heart was in turmoil.

    Han Dong looked at her small, pale face, feeling a bit reluctant: "I��m about to leave soon, you should quickly forget about this!"

    Because he got involved over here, causing trouble, his big brother scolded him. He said he could help resolve the issue, save this girl, but he had to hurry home. Han Dong agreed.

    Sun Chan nodded: "Thank you."

    "No need to be polite. Eat!"

    Sun Chan picked up the spoon and looked at the egg in the bowl, momentarily dazed. Having lived two lives, the times when she ate eggs were pitifully few.

    Han Dong got anxious: "Thinking about the past again? That��s not okay, you have to look forward!"

    Sun Chan nodded: "Alright, I��ll look forward." While eating the egg, she couldn��t help but think of the harsh treatment from her adoptive mother. Two lives, and it wasn��t easy to forget the shadows of the past.

    Seeing her carefully eating the egg, Han Dong felt distressed, wishing he could give her the best things in the world, just so she wouldn��t feel sad. Hence, both their expressions were heavy.

    "What are you two doing? Arguing?" At this moment, Yang Liu came over with a lunch box filled with stir-fried shredded potatoes and steamed buns.

    Han Dong stood up: "No, I��m leaving, Sun Chan can��t bear to part with me."

    Sun Chan, annoyed, used chopsticks to tap his hand, but Han Dong justughed and didn��t mind.

    Though Yang Liu and Han Dong hadn��t spent much time together, she understood his personality, knowing he was joking, and bid farewell with a smile.

    Before leaving, Han Dong put three books on the table: "For you."

    This time, he had thought carefully, since Sun Chan seemed to really like reading. If she refused to ept valuable things, then giving books would do. Sure enough, Sun Chan was delighted to see them.

    "Thank you! How much..."

    "It��s not a big deal. Just treat me to a meal someday, I��m leaving now!" He dashed out, not giving Sun Chan a chance to pay.

    Sun Chan had no choice but to let it go; looking at the books, two were rted to nursing, and another was a selection of foreign novels. She couldn��t let go of them, cherishing them dearly.

    Yang Liu didn��t pay much attention, and after a few bites said suddenly: "Hey Sun Chan, tomorrow our side is doing a joint performance with the military, they��re signing people up, do you want to join?"

    Sun Chan paused, suddenly thinking of Gu Junming, who had mentioned he was in X City. If it was a joint event, would she get to see him?

    But she quickly shook her head, wondering what she was thinking. They��d met only twice, how could she be like this! Besides, he was Doctor Bai��s boyfriend.

    Yang Liu waved a hand in front of her: "Are you going or not? What are you thinking?"

    Sun Chan shook her head: "I��m not going. I work in the cafeteria; what��s the point of going? I can��t perform either."

    Yang Liu smiled: "Then I won��t go either. It��s a day off; how abouting home with me? I told Mom about you, you��re my good friend!"

    Sun Chan smiled: "Sorry, I want to visit Sister Guihua. She was the one who introduced me to this job, and she had just had a baby not long ago."

    A few days ago, Sun Chan had just received a month��s sry and sent a dress to Wang Dan as a wedding gift. She couldn��t go back herself, apart from nning to buy something to visit Wang Guihua as a kind gesture.

    Yang Liu could only let it be upon hearing this.

    While working in the kitchen, Sun Chan thought of Gu Junming again. He had given her his phone number back then, which she kept but never called, thinking there was nothing important to say, and calling would just waste his time��so embarrassing.

    What she didn��t know was that at this moment, Gu Junming was on the phone, with Han Dong on the other end.

    Han Dong was distressed: "Big brother! Help me think of a way to make her ept me! I really like her and want to make her happy. When I see her sad, I feel like being pricked by needles, and seeing her smile makes me happy too."

    Gu Junming frowned: "You rascal! You called the battalion early in the morning just for this? I��m not your mother, who wants to listen to you say such things?" Hearing Han Dong��s confession, he felt goosebumps rise on his body.

    "Big brother. I want to marry her, please help me."

    Gu Junming said: "Stop bbering. You��ve said such things not just once."

    "This time I��m serious..."

    "I��m busy here, if there��s nothing else, stop babbling. Get back home right away, or I��ll deal with you next time." Gu Junming mercilessly hung up the phone. Previously, he had cleaned up countless messes for him, and this time it was even more outrageous. He even stripped them naked and put them together, luckily this pair was not good people; otherwise, he wouldn��t care at all.

    Gu Junming didn��t know who the girl Han Dong was talking about. Over the years, Han Dong had encountered many women, and he was tired of listening to it.

    Hanging up the phone, Gu Junming strode outside, but right then the leader came in and stopped him: "Just in time, Deputy Battalion Commander Gu, tomorrow we have a joint event with the nursing home, you��ll be in charge. A new official always brings three fires, let��s see how you do." He patted Gu Junming on the shoulder with a smile.

    This time, with this task, Gu Junming and his brothers risked their lives, crossing the border, with several soldiers injured. He himself had a fragment graze his back, but in the end, they sessfullypleted the mission, meriting a first-ss medal for the team, and he himself earned a second-ss medal and was promoted to Deputy Battalion Commander.

 Chapter 50: Three Encounters

    <h4>Chapter 50: Chapter 50: Three Encounters</h4>

    Gu Junming only regarded this as a task and agreed to it.

    The leader added, "Oh, right, do you remember Doctor Bai? She��s alsoing. This time, she��sing with the arts troupe. Since you��re injured from carrying out the task, she can take a look at you."

    "My injury is fine. I just remembered that I need to go to a nearby vige to draw some maps tomorrow, so I can��t go. I think you should assign this task to someone else." Gu Junming knew very well why Bai Fann wasing. He would not give any opportunity for a private meeting, nor let rumors bind him to her again. If this kept going on endlessly, the organization might make him submit a love report for Bai Fann��s reputation.

    Binding himself to her through gossip? Gu Junming��s opinion of Bai Fann was getting worse.

    The leader knew his temperament and had to let it go: "You��re really something. Fine, hurry back then."

    "Yes!" Gu Junming saluted and left.

    Meanwhile, Bai Fann was packing her luggage downstairs. Since it was a social gathering, she prepared a few pretty dresses. Shepared the clothes against her body, imagining the surprised expression Gu Junming would have upon seeing her, which made her feel secretly smug.

    Since thest time she was rejected, Bai Fann kept asking around for news about him. This time, upon hearing about the gathering, she nned to attend and captivate him with her charm.

    But thinking about meeting people from the health retreat, she couldn��t help but remember the frustration from when sheined to Mr. Yan and failed, which soured her mood. She forcefully tossed the dresses into the suitcase. Damn Sun Chan; if not for her nder, Mr. Yan wouldn��t despise her!

    The door opened and Bai Chuan strode in. Seeing Bai Fann busy with clothes, he said, "Already packing summer clothes?"

    Bai Fann quickly held up a dress, smiling: "No, I��m going out. Grandpa, how does this dress look?"

    "Not great." Bai Chuan didn��t even feel like humoring his granddaughter, as he sat on the sofa and lit a cigarette.

    Bai Fann was stunned. She put her suitcase aside and walked over: "Grandpa, you said you quit smoking. Why are you...?"

    "Gu Junming got promoted to Deputy Battalion Commander and was awarded a personal second-ss merit."

    "Really!?" Bai Fann was instantly overjoyed: "Grandpa, he definitely won��t switch careers then, right?"

    "No, he won��t." Bai Chuan frowned. Given the current situation, Gu Junming��s future was bright, but Bai Chuan didn��t feel the slightest happiness, looking at Bai Fann. "Lan, you haven��t forgotten about his grandfather��s birthdayst time, have you? You��re still not giving up? Didn��t I tell you to go on a blind date with Political Commissioner Wang��s son? What��s the use of still thinking about Gu Junming!"

    Bai Fann said, "Don��t worry, Grandpa. I already know why Gu Junming is like this towards me."

    She took the cigarette from her grandfather��s hand and put it aside: "My friends say it��s because his position wasn��t high enough that he always rejected me. I believe what he thinks deep down ispletely different from what he says. Now that he��s been promoted, he won��t reject me anymore."

    Bai Chuan looked at his granddaughter, so angry he almostughed. How could this girl be so muddle-headed! It wasn��t self-doubt keeping him from being with you; he wanted topletely distance himself from the Bai Family!

    He really wanted to just expose the truth to her, but thinking about it, unless she figured it out for herself, she��d never truly be content. Even if married to someone else, she��d never forget Gu Junming, so he decided to say nothing and let her hit a wall on her own.

    "So, Grandpa, can I go?"

    Bai Chuan nodded: "You can, but you have to promise me that if this time Gu Junming still doesn��t ept you, you��ll go on a blind date with Political Commissioner Wang��s son. You��re already twenty-five; you can��t drag this out any longer."

    Bai Fann thought for a moment, then firmly said: "I have confidence. He will ept me for sure. Grandpa, wait for my good news. Gu Junming is just too self-conscious to ept my feelings."

    "Alright. Let��s leave it at that." Bai Chuan went upstairs.

    Bai Fannughed as she picked up her dress and continued choosing.

    Early the next morning, Sun Chan set out. She had been working here for a month, but it was her first time going to the surrounding viges. All around were cornfields, rapeseed fields, and vegetable gardens. Coming from a vige herself, she was already familiar with such scenes and felt a sense of nostalgia.

    She held a bag containing some fruits Han Dong had given her earlier. She also bought powdered milk and malted milk from the small shop in the canteen, filling the bag full. Enjoying the scenery as she walked, she was in a good mood.

    Halfway there, she heard the engine sound of a car from behind and quickly stepped aside. The road was still dirt at that time, and as the car passed, dust flew, making Sun Chan cover her mouth and cough.

    The car, however, stopped about ten meters ahead, and as the door opened, a man in olive green jumped out.

    Seeing him, Sun Chan��s heart skipped several beats. She smiled and ran over, "Captain Gu!"

    She didn��t recognize the rank, so she didn��t know he was promoted.

    From the car, Gu Junming had seen a petite figure ahead, and his heart lifted with anticipation. As the car drove closer and confirmed it was Sun Chan, he quickly got out to greet her.

    "It really is you!" he couldn��t help but smile. He was genuinely happy. Though neither said much, they saw the joy in each other��s eyes.

    Sun Chan smiled, "I��m going to visit an elder sister. Does the Captain have some errands?"

    "Yes, there��s a task."

    "Oh, then Captain, you go on ahead."

    "Come on up, there��s plenty of room in the car. I��ll give you a ride."

    Sun Chan hurriedly declined, but Gu Junming, without giving her a chance to refuse, picked up her bag and walked ahead.

    The car was spacious enough. Sun Chan could have sat next to Gu Junming, but seeing a smaller space in the back, she sat there instead, cing her bag next to Gu Junming.

    Gu Junming understood her shyness and timidity, recalling the contrast of her bravery the night they fought against the criminals together. He couldn��t help but smile; this little girl was so proper.

    The driver was still Xiao Wu fromst time and had a slight recollection of Sun Chan, nodding to acknowledge her.

    The car started again.

    Gu Junming asked, "How��s work on your side?"

    "Pretty good." Though nervous, Sun Chan talked openly about her work situation, of course skipping the incident with Liu Qingshuang.

    "I can tell; you seem in high spirits." He wanted to ask if she knew about the scandal in the canteen but figured such a pure girl shouldn��t have her ears sullied and decided not to mention it.

 Chapter 51: Want a Divorce

    <h4>Chapter 51: Chapter 51: Want a Divorce</h4>

    Sun Chan��s hair no longer carries therge braid typical of rural origins; now it��s cut into a ponytail, bangs swept up, revealing a smooth forehead and bright eyes. She wears a white shirt and gray pants, the standard uniform issued by her workce. Despite its simplicity, the outfit entuates her graceful appearance.

    "Really?" Sun Chan said with a smile, "I actually feel I��ve gained a bit of weight."

    "You��re not fat at all, you should eat more."

    Sun Chan pressed her lips into a smile. Gu Junming looked at her rosy lips, coughed a few times, and nced out the window.

    Suddenly, Sun Chan remembered, "Didn��t they say we were going to have a gathering between our side and your troop? Why didn��t Commander Gu go?"

    "Hmm, I have a mission."

    Sun Chan recalled he had mentioned it earlier, and smiled apologetically.

    From the side, Xiao Wu chuckled, "He��s no longer amander. He��s now the Deputy Battalion Commander!"

    Sun Chan quickly smiled and said, "That��s good news! Being Deputy Battalion Commander must be quite a big position, right?"

    Xiao Wu turned the steering wheel, smiling but saying nothing.

    Gu Junming said, "Not really that big. Everyone I came out with has basically moved up already; I��m thest one. My abilities aren��t very great actually."

    Sun Chan quickly said, "How could that be! I believe Deputy Battalion Commander must have worked hard to earn that position. Next time, you��ll surely do even better. Honestly, sometimes moving up takes a bit of luck."

    Gu Junming smiled at her, she was the first in his circle to genuinely feel happy about his promotion.

    Even his grandfather felt his promotion was slow considering his background and age, with someints in his words.

    Bai Chuan had meddled several times, though unable to stop his advancement. But he advised Wang Guihua to send him to a certain ce for a clerical position, so he could take care of his brother Jun Tao.

    Gu Zishan surprisingly didn��t oppose Wang Guihua and agreed. One phone call was all it took to have someone send the transfer order.

    Gu Junming firmly opposed it, very disappointed, and argued with his father, saying if forced, he would switch careers. After hanging up angrily, Gu Zishan finally gave it up. Father and son hadn��tmunicated for about ten days due to this matter.

    "Deputy Battalion Commander, what are you thinking about?" Sun Chan noticed Gu Junming��s face didn��t look good and grew nervous.

    "Nothing." Gu Junming suppressed the irritation inside, smiled, and said, "I was just thinking today��s mission might be tough. Might not be able to get out all day."

    Sun Chan said, "Ah! Then you guys won��t have a ce to eat?"

    Xiao Wu casually said, "We��ll just eat somepressed biscuits, we��re used to it."

    Sun Chan said nothing as the car stopped at the vige entrance, she got out and kept thanking them.

    "It��s nothing, go ahead." Gu Junming nodded at her and closed the car door.

    Sun Chan watched the car drive away before entering the vige. Little did she know, Gu Junming kept watching her through the rearview mirror.

    Guihua��s house was easy to find; asking around, she soon found it at the vige entrance, with its spacious courtyard and two-story building. Such houses were rare in the 1980s countryside, showing the family��s good condition.

    Guihua was in the courtyard, sunbathing with her son. She wore a red shirt and ck pants, her figure not yet recovered, looking somewhat plump. She stared straight at the corn drying ahead, lost in thought as Sun Chan entered unnoticed.

    "Big Sis!" Sun Chan greeted her with a smile.

    Seeing Sun Chan enter, Guihua quickly stood up, surprised, and said with a smile, "You��re here!"

    "I��vee to see you, Big Sis. You look well." Sun Chan handed over some things.

    Guihua didn��t stand on ceremony and epted them directly, "I was thinking of buying baby form, but the small shop in the vige isn��t good, and I can��t get out."

    "Isn��t Big Brother around?"

    Guihua��s face changed, and she snorted, "Don��t mention him. I��ve decided to treat him like he��s dead, whether hees back or not!"

    Sun Chan knew something was up but didn��t question, only offering casualfort. She yed with the child in Guihua��s arms, noticing he��d grown robust with his mother��s attentive care.

    Guihua asked about Sun Chan��s situation at the nursing home and nodded, "You��re a solid kid, wherever you go, you��ll stick it out."

    After hesitating, Sun Chan said, "Big Sis, you seem unhappy. I��ve read in books that women can have emotional issues after childbirth... just feeling down..."

    "It��s not feeling down, I��m ready to die!" Guihua impulsively burst into tears. Her crying made the child cry too. Sun Chan hurriedly held the child, gently patting his back.

    Guihua wiped her tears with her sleeve, saying, "I want to divorce Wang Dabao."

    "Big Sis! Don��t be impulsive; the child is still young." Sun Chan has lived two lifetimes; when she died in her past life, it was already the 21st century, but even then, not many people in the vige were divorced unless the husband was gambling or in jail and life was unbearable. Otherwise, no one would seek divorce. Yet, Guihua chose divorce despite living a prosperous life.

    Guihua continued, sniffling, "Everyone says he��s so good to me, but deep down I know, he��s only for the son. Since I got pregnant, he��s not concerned about me. Last time, that fox spirit has already moved in with him in the city. I��m just an abandoned wife! I dare not tell others; I��d be ridiculed. I��ve only told you."

    Sun Chan sympathetically looked at Guihua.

    Listening to her recount her miserable days, with the child crying daily and only her to look after him, unable to get proper sleep. Wang Dabao used business as an excuse, not returning home for days, and when he did, he just yed with the child for a while, left some money, and left. He wouldn��t even eat a meal at home.

    Guihua wiped her tears and said bitterly, "I didn��t agree to meet the men my family introduced, choosing Wang Dabao because I thought he was good to me. But now, what��s the point? The beast made a fortune using my family��s connections and no longer cares about me. I��ve decided, once the child gets through the day, I��ll divorce him."

    Sun Chan��s mouth opened slightly; actually, she hoped Guihua wouldn��t divorce, as the vigers�� gossip and disdain could overwhelm someone.

    Guihua looked at her, "I know what you��re going to say. If you truly care for me, don��t stop me. I��d rather be a real widow than remain in a dead marriage. He doesn��t love me anymore, and I don��t care for him either."

    "But your family wouldn��t agree, right?"

 Chapter 52: Subtle Influence

    <h4>Chapter 52: Chapter 52: Subtle Influence</h4>

    Guihua knew that she didn��t want her to get a divorce, so she said, "You know? He��s now starting to transfer money, asking me for money every now and then, saying it��s for business. I��m no fool, I��ve hidden all the family��s money bit by bit. It��s clear he doesn��t want to live well with me! I can��t let him keep deceiving me. I��ve already talked to my brother, and if he doesn��t agree to my divorce, I��ll die. By then, everything at home will belong to Wang Dabao. Later, he��ll find a young and pretty wife, and if they can stomach that, then they��ll force me to stay put." As she spoke, her eyes were red.

    Sun Chan felt very upset, "Big sis, I��m not good at giving advice. I just hope the child won��t be affected no matter what happens."

    "Of course. Baby is my life! Why would I give the child I worked so hard to bring into this world to him? It��s not like I don��t have money to raise them!" Guihua said with a coldugh.

    Sun Chan nodded, feeling that what she said made sense.

    Guihua said, "Have lunch here today, I��ll make something delicious for you. There��s not much here, but lots of mountain goods, like wood ear mushrooms, regr mushrooms, they��re very fresh! Do you like wild hawthorn fruit? My parents sent me a lot, try them!"

    Sun Chan hurriedly handed the child to Guihua, "Let me do it, big sis, you try my cooking too."

    "Alright! Let��s sit and have a good chat between sisters." Guihua smiled, looking at Sun Chan who stood up, and nodded, "You look much better than when we first met."

    Sun Chanughed, "Maybe it��s because I��ve been eating well."

    Guihua brought out lots of hawthorn fruit for Sun Chan to eat, while Sun Chan tidied up the dishes and chatted with Guihua.

    In her past life, Sun Chan had never left the vige and was very conservative. While Guihua was familiar with the world of business, having witnessed a lot of hypocrisy and ttery, she especially liked honest Sun Chan. Sometimes, Guihua would exin some outdated ideas to her, helping Sun Chan understand how women could live differently.

    Sun Chan was incredibly grateful, feeling like her world had suddenly be much clearer.

    The wild grass on butter mushrooms was particrly difficult to clean, but these mushrooms were especially plump. With a bit of meat and a quick braise with pak choi, the taste would be especially delicious. Since Guihua couldn��t eat overly salty food right then, Sun Chan first filled arge bowl for Guihua, adding salt to her ownter.

    She also soaked some wood ear mushrooms in hot water and made scrambled eggs with them, and Guihua even started braising half of the chicken her family sent the day before.

    Sun Chan hurriedly said, "We��re not outsiders, don��t go to such lengths!"

    "Silly child, half a chicken scares you this much? Eat your fill! I��ve long grown tired of it." Guihuaughed, giving her a yful swat on the backside.

    The child fell asleep, and Guihua took them into the cradle inside the house, then came out to help Sun Chan with the cooking.

    Sun Chan cut up the chicken, added some vermicelli, and braised the chicken. She also fried up a te of peanuts, prepared two bowls of rice, and the two sat at the small table in the courtyard to eat.

    The mushrooms were exceptionally delicious, and Sun Chan ate several in a row.

    Guihua asked Sun Chan how she had been over this period, and Sun Chan didn��t hold back, detailing her encounter with danger at the hotel and the incidents she encountered after going to the nursing home.

    Guihua wasn��t surprised about Liu Qingshuang��s situation, "I��ve been in business for years, and I��ve met almost all kinds of shameless people already. It��s good for you to know people like this now, so you can guard yourself against being harmed by them in the future. Remember, don��t trust anyone easily; who knows what��s beneath a person��s surface."

    Sun Chan nodded.

    Guihua was quite interested in Gu Junming and Han Dong, "Both seem to have quite the connection with you, maybe you and one of them could be a good match?"

    Sun Chan��s face flushed, "That��s not the case at all! The Deputy Battalion Commander is with a doctor, and someone like Han Dong, we are also not suitable, big sis, don��t joke about it."

    Guihua smiled, "You don��t get it, the ones who were wild before, when they really fall for someone, they be exceptionally serious. But I think you fancy the soldier more."

    Sun Chan was flustered, "That��s not true, I can��tpare to her."

    Even though she disliked Bai Fann, she couldn��t deny the difference between them��family background, capability, and profession. Any man would choose Bai Fann over her, and she felt a little disheartened.

    Guihua smiled, "I know what��s on your mind. You��ve moved to the city, but you��re still timid and fearful of getting hurt. Be more confident. You��ve already had the courage to leave the vige and dare to escape an arranged marriage; what else is there to be afraid of?"

    Sun Chan nodded, indeed, although she was living a second life, some things were still deeply rooted and hard to change. It��s time to be brave.

    "I��m thinking, once I divorce Wang Dabao, I want to open a small hotel in the city, what do you think? A couple of floors, so impressive! We can earn a lot then."

    Sun Chan��s chopsticks paused, then she looked at Guihua, "Isn��t that too risky? The cost is very high."

    What if it failed? But she didn��t dare to voice this thought.

    Guihua ced some mushrooms in Sun Chan��s bowl, "One must have a spirit of adventure! I��ve already thought it through, we can open a hotel near the bus station, where there��s lots of foot traffic, perfect for a hotel. But you do have a point, I can start with a small house, rent it and divide it into several small rooms, make money first and then expand, how does that sound? Do you want to help me?" Not waiting for Sun Chan to respond, Guihua smiled again, "Look at my memory, you already have a job. I will find one or two waiters then. You focus on your work; it��s a formal job, after all. Over time, you might even get promoted and be assigned housing."

    Sun Chan smiled, "I never thought working for the public was all that great, but I just started, it wouldn��t be right to leave so soon."

    "Alright, I��m not in a hurry." Guihua then shared her ideas about opening a hotel with Sun Chan. She talked about how to set up the facade, decoration, and the basicyout inside, she had these ns in her mind already. In her previous life, Sun Chan saw many hotels on TV, plus Zhou Jinzhu often brought the young widow to hotels in the city and would shamelessly brag to her.

    So Sun Chan was able to give some advice, and Guihua��s eyes lit up, "I didn��t realize you��re quite thoughtful."

    "Ah, just talking nonsense, when are you nning to open the hotel, big sis?"

    "Can��t do it now. First, the child is too small and needs someone. Also, during our marriage, if a hotel is built, Wang Dabao will definitely want to meddle, it might be his! Just like with the mountain goods trade, I started it, but now I��mpletely excluded! Everything I��ve worked so hard to earn has benefited him and that fox spirit!" Guihua said with gritted teeth.

 Chapter 53 Firm Stand

    <h4>Chapter 53: Chapter 53 Firm Stand</h4><h4></h4>

    Sun Chan said, "Men are all heartless."

    Ding Hu and Zhou Jinzhu, each more ruthless than the other.

    "That��s right. Everyone thinks that getting a divorce is bad for your reputation. But a woman can��t rely on a man for her whole life. Have you ever seen a man who couldn��t live after getting divorced, while women may act like they��re dying after a breakup? You��re still young, remember, never put your happiness in a man��s hands." As she spoke, she ced a chicken drumstick in Sun Chan��s bowl.

    Sun Chan nodded, secretly admiring her. Despite Guihua��s troubled marriage and poor choice in a husband, her mind was always clear, and she had drive in her career. If she had the courage to divorce in her previous life, she wouldn��t have ended up so miserably.

    After they finished eating, Sun Chan prepared to leave.

    Guihua smiled and said, "Why don��t you stay here for a day? Wang Dabao won��t being back."

    "No need, I have to work tomorrow."

    "Alright, let me pack these dishes in a lunchbox for you to take home."

    Sun Chan hastily declined.

    Guihuaughed and said, "It��s no big deal, there��s too much for me to eat alone. These have salt added, and I can��t eat them, they would just go to waste. Next time youe, just bring the lunchbox back."

    Guihua deftly found an aluminum lunchbox, washed it, put in the mushrooms, filled it with rice, added a chicken drumstick, and packed a big bag of mountain dates and hazelnuts for Sun Chan.

    Looking at the lunchbox, Sun Chan suddenly suggested, "How about I take this meal to the Deputy Battalion Commander instead, since he didn��t have lunch? But this lunchbox..."

    Guihua smiled and said, "Sure, take it to him. The lunchbox isn��t worth much, it��s fine."

    Sun Chan epted the lunchbox, saying, "Alright! If I see any suitable baby form, I��ll buy it for you and bring it next week."

    "Great! With the child so young, I can��t go out to buy it myself. Oh, next time, get me some toilet paper too. The quality at the vige store is poor. And some peanut candy as well."

    Sun Chan agreed to everything and reminded Guihua to take care of herself. Just as she was about to leave, the sound of a car engine came from outside, and a gray car pulled up at the door, kicking up a lot of dust.

    In these days, having a car at home was quite rare, and Guihua��s house was among the first to have one.

    Wang Dabao got out of the car, his hair immactely groomed, wearing a tan suit, and carrying a briefcase. He gave off a very tacky vibe.

    Seeing Sun Chan, Wang Dabao was first surprised, seeing that this girl had be more and more beautiful, and he smiled, "Sun Chan is here?" His eyes roamed all over Sun Chan��s body, making her ufortable.

    "Yes, I came to see my sister and was just about to leave." Sun Chan greeted him and headed straight out.

    Under normal circumstances, he would have tried to get handsy, but today he had pressing matters, so he went directly to Guihua, "I told Boss Li that I��d pay him this afternoon, but I��m a bit short on funds. Can you give me three thousand first?"

    Guihua lowered her eyelids and said, "Where in the house is there money?"

    "What do you mean there��s none? Didn��t you get the money from the Wang Family Vige��s mountain products?"

    Guihua oh-ed with a prolonged tone, "That money, it��s really unfortunate. My brother from my family was also short on cash earlier, so I lent it to him."

    Wang Dabao��s face instantly turned sour, probably not expecting to not get the money back.

    Guihua said, "Sun Chan, thank you for visiting me today. You should hurry up and go home."

    Sun Chan realized that Guihua didn��t want her to see this, quickly agreed, and had just stepped out the door when she heard Wang Dabao shouting.

    "How could you just lend out money so freely, several thousand at a time? That��s my money, and you lent it out without saying a word?"

    "You��ve been gone for over ten days. How could I find you?" Guihua��s voice got louder, "What��s yours about it? You know well how you started your business, right? My brother from my family gave you the money to help you, and now when he needs a little loan, you��re not happy? Don��t fear peopleughing at you if it gets out!"

    "It��s not that... I��m just short on money... I��m not saying you can��t lend it out... but you should at least tell me!"

    "Enough with the act! I know what you think. Your money is yours, and ours is yours, selfish to the core! If you��re really short on cash, sell the apartment in the city!" Guihua mocked with a sneer, "Do you know how expensive the apartments in the city are? One is over twenty thousand, and you could get several times three thousand from that."

    Wang Dabao hurriedly denied it, "When did I buy an apartment! ��They say pregnancy makes you dumb for three years��; why are you so suspicious?"

    "The second floor opposite the department store, changed ownership on the eighth ofst month, in the name of that fox spirit. Don��t think that just because I��m at home taking care of the baby, I don��t know anything. Wang Dabao, I��m telling you again, divorce, and don��t expect to get a penny from me again. My brother also promised not to give you any benefits. Keeping me is of no use to you!" Guihua was extremely aggressive, waking up the child sleeping inside.

    The courtyard fell into silence. Sun Chan felt tense, clenching her fists, afraid Wang Dabao would hit her, and not daring to leave.

    Wang Dabao finally stammered, "Guihua, I... it wasn��t... I was just having fun with her..."

    Guihua��s voice filled with sorrow, "Just having fun and you gave her a twenty-thousand-dor apartment? All these years of hardship and suffering with you, and what did you buy for me? I��m not even as good as a fox spirit!"

    "No, we��re a family..."

    Guihuaughed mockingly, "Ha, a family? When I needed your attention most during pregnancy, you held her, protecting her from me hitting her! During my postpartum month, you ignored me, took her around messing about, and bought her an apartment with our money. You want to have the best of both worlds, do you think I��m stupid? I was blind to live with you, but I can��t stay blind forever. In short, it��s divorce, or wait for me to find another man. If you want my family to help you again or give you money, dream on! Now get out!"

 Chapter 54 Delivering Meals

    <h4>Chapter 54: Chapter 54 Delivering Meals</h4><h4></h4>

    Crash! The door was mmed shut as Wang Dabao was kicked out. He angrily kicked the door a few times, causing it to bang loudly, but no one inside responded. Instead, he heard a child��s cry.

    Wang Dabao��s face was full of rage. He stopped kicking the door, scratched his head, and then hurriedly got into his car and left, still looking furious.

    Sun Chan emerged from the corner, her brows tightly furrowed.

    Such a good woman like Guihua, and he doesn��t know how to cherish her. Just after gaining a little bit of sess, he starts having bad intentions. I really don��t know if he��s clever or foolish.

    Sun Chan picked up her lunch box and left, thinking about the ce Gu Junming mentioned for testing, and then she headed there.

    There was a sign here: Unauthorized persons keep out.

    She looked inside and saw dense woods, which were seldom frequented. Sun Chan trudged her way in, one foot deep, one shallow. Mosquitoes were everywhere, and soon she was bitten several times, making her itch.

    Sun Chan braced herself and kept going. Beyond the woods was a vast grasnd where she vaguely saw two people in military uniforms setting up poles and taking photos. There had been surveyors in her former vige too, which had seemed novel at the time, and everyone went to have a look, so seeing this now didn��t surprise her.

    Unconsciously, she walked over, but after a few steps, she halted.

    Sun Chan suddenly remembered something. He already has Bai Fann. What does it mean for me to bring him food?

    Suddenly, she felt a void in her heart, an indescribable feeling.

    In front of Bai Fann, she felt a bit inferior. Of course, Sun Chan understood the woman��s disdain for her, but she had the credentials to be contemptuous: a good family background, beauty, and she was a military doctor. It was rumored they were dating, so what did bringing him food mean? Just a fatherless, motherless girl from the vige...

    So, Sun Chan changed her mind, turned around, and started walking back, feeling empty inside.

    After only a few steps, she felt as if she had stepped on something that made her ufortable. When she looked down, she was almost scared to death. A child��s arm-thick snake over a meter long quickly wrapped around her right foot and slithered rapidly up her leg.

    Sun Chan��s scalp tingled as she couldn��t help but scream. The bag with the lunch box in it flew out: "Ahhh! A snake!"

    At this moment, Gu Junming was sitting on the grass recording data while Xiao Wu went to find firewood.

    He heard the voice and was stunned. Was it Sun Chan��s?

    He hurriedly stood up and looked around, seeing a figure near the distant meadow. His heart dropped! He quickly hurried over; Sun Chan was frantically crawling on the grass, with the snake chasing her relentlessly.

    Gu Junming shouted loudly: "Sun Chan, don��t move, there��s a marsh here!"

    But he was still a step toote. Sun Chan realized one of her legs was slowly sinking into the swamp below.

    Terror struck her as she desperately tried to pull her leg out, but the more she struggled, the deeper she sank. Cold sweat covered her forehead.

    As Gu Junming ran, he pulled off his belt from his waist. "Take a deep breath, don��t struggle! The more you struggle, the faster you sink! Hold on!" Speaking, he was already at her side, lying down, and tossed the belt over.

    One of Sun Chan��s legs was already sunk above the knee, and it was getting deeper. She really thought she was going to die here today. Luckily, Gu Junming had thrown the belt over.

    Sun Chan held tightly as Gu Junming pulled her out, urging, "Take a deep breath, rx! Don��t struggle!"

    Sun Chan nodded, her body slowly inching outward.

    As soon as she emerged from the swamp, they both copsed onto the grass.

    Sun Chan��s pants were covered in mud, and she felt embarrassed and terrified. She had just rushed in without thinking, and if she had died, it would have been her fault. But if she had implicated Gu Junming, wouldn��t that be her sin! Now her heart was filled with regret, her eyes reddened, and tears fell one by one.

    "I��m sorry. I caused you trouble." Sun Chan cried with her head down.

    Gu Junming wasn��t angry, smiling as he said, "You came looking for me?"

    "Deputy Battalion Commander... the snake!" she pointed at Gu Junming��s ankle, a bit panicked as the snake curled up again.

    "It��s okay, this snake isn��t poisonous. But there are swamps everywhere; don��t wander around." Gu Junming picked her up horizontally and kicked the snake away with one foot.

    "But you..."

    "It��s safer this way, it��s okay."

    "No, let me down." Sun Chan leaned against him, feeling very uneasy.

    "It��s really dangerous here, hang in there. I��ll carry you out." Gu Junming carried her out of the woods. She was as light as a feather in his arms, worrying him that he might hurt her by carrying her.

    "Sorry, Deputy Battalion Commander, I really shouldn��t havee!" Sun Chan was so ashamed she didn��t know what to say, questioning if she��d gone mad.

    Gu Junming leaned close to her ear and whispered, "I��m not angry, don��t worry."

    The warm breath blew into Sun Chan��s ear, causing her whole body to tremble. She nced at Gu Junming and saw his intense gaze fixed on her. Startled, she lowered her face again, shadowed by her long eyshes.

    Gu Junming felt a stir in his heart, this girl really was beautiful. While he worked that morning, he thought how nice it would be if she came by. But he also thought about how dangerous it was here, so she probably wouldn��te.

    Who knew she really came! A surge of joy filled his heart, and he didn��t know why he missed seeing her, even though they��d only met a few times. Yet seeing her still brought enormous joy.

    "Nevere to such a ce again in the future." Even while holding someone, he didn��t feel tired at all. His breath was steady. He gently ced her on the edge of the grass.

    "Did youe looking for something?"

    "Actually, I wanted to bring you guys something to eat. Oh! I threw the bundle away!" Sun Chan just wanted to cover her face; how could she have done something so silly!

    Gu Junming chuckled, retraced his steps, and quickly brought the bundle back.

    "Is this it?"

    Sun Chan took the bundle. Fortunately, the stic bags inside were tightly wrapped, and the rice absorbed the broth without spilling much. She cautiously opened the lunch box: "Actually, it was made at that big sister��s house. I always think eating biscuits isn��t good. I just thought of bringing some food suddenly, nothing else..." The more anxious she was, the more tongue-tied she became. She just felt a bit foolish.

 Chapter 55 Getting Along

    <h4>Chapter 55: Chapter 55 Getting Along</h4><h4></h4>

    Gu Junming didn��t say much, just smiled and said, "That��s great, I��m starving." Of course, he noticed her fluster, but he had no intention of exposing it.

    "I wonder if I shouldn��t havee. Did I bring you trouble?" Sun Chan didn��t know what to say, her ears turning red.

    "No trouble." Neither of them spoke, just stood facing each other, seeing themselves in each other��s eyes, both a bit embarrassed.

    Xiao Wu shouted, he was looking everywhere for firewood.

    Only then did Sun Chane back to her senses and said, "You can keep the lunchbox after eating, and when you see me again, I��ll give you another. Oh, and these walnuts and hawthorn berries, you can take them to eat." She took out the rest of the things from her pocket.

    "Okay, I��ll have a few." He knew she was shy, which made him happy inside, and took out a few dates, eating them in big bites.

    Sun Chan was happy to see him eat: "Then I��ll leave now."

    "Wait a minute! Your pants are in that state now, that��s not okay, right?"

    Only then did Sun Chan remember the swamp earlier, looking down to see one legpletely covered in mud.

    Gu Junming said, "There��s a small pond ahead, you can wash your pants clean, and they will dry if you roast them over the fire."

    "But I..." She was wearing thin autumn pants underneath, feeling embarrassed to take them off.

    "Don��t worry, I��ll start another fire for you."

    Xiao Wu was by the river, crouching under a makeshift stove of piled stones, trying to start a fire to boil some water, but he couldn��t get it going no matter what, blowing dust all over his face. Seeing Gu Junming, he quickly waved.

    "Boss, you better do it. I really can��t!" Then he saw Sun Chan behind Gu Junming. Luckily he was careless, often stepping into mud pits, and didn��t notice Sun Chan��s pants condition.

    "Someone brought us food, we don��t need to eat biscuits for lunch." Gu Junming shook the lunchbox.

    Xiao Wu��s mouth fell open, then heughed, "Isn��t that great? But quite dangerous, right? She just came in like that?"

    "Yes." Gu Junming didn��t say much more, but his eyes and brows were filled with joy, because she came here for me.

    Xiao Wu didn��t know what to say, if these two got together, what about Doctor Bai? Why does the boss like a vige girl instead of her?

    Gu Junming crouched on the ground, blowing on the embers under the stones, soon lighting the fire: "Find some more firewood, we can roast the food over the fire, add some water, and it��ll be ready to eat."

    "Yes!" Xiao Wu ran forward.

    Gu Junming said to Sun Chan, "You go wash up, we��ll head forward to see if there are any fish, I��ll catch one." With that, he left.

    Sun Chan quickly took off her pants, even the autumn pants underneath were dirty, hurriedly crouching by the river, first washing her feet, then washing the muddy pants legs in the river, crouching there, cing the pants leg over the mes to roast, from afar could see Gu Junming and Xiao Wu talking by the river, Xiao Wu wanted to return several times but was pulled back by Gu Junming,ter obediently rolled up his pants and went into the river to catch fish.

    Xiao Wu tried several times, but the fish always slipped away from his hands, making him exim loudly in frustration.

    Gu Junming was quick and decisive, catching a fish and holding it tight, throwing it onto the shore, making Xiao Wuugh heartily with great joy.

    By the time Sun Chan had roasted her pants dry and put them on, the two were already back.

    After a simple tidy up, Sun Chan ced the fish on the fire to roast, the taste was quite good.

    While eating the food Sun Chan brought over, Xiao Wu finally understood why the boss liked her. It turns out her cooking is delicious, that��s why the boss likes her.

    "Truly, capturing a man��s heart starts with his stomach." He muttered under his breath.

    Gu Junming patted the back of his head, "What are you thinking, hurry up and eat!"

    "Yes." Xiao Wu ate the fish in big bites, even though he didn��t join the mixer, eating such delicious food was not bad either.

    Sun Chan left on a bike with the two of them, all the way Xiao Wu nodded off sleepily. At first, he tried to maintain his image, butter couldn��t help it and just fell asleep.

    Gu Junming and Sun Chan started chatting quietly.

    He asked Sun Chan about her future ns: "At your age, you should be studying."

    Sun Chan bit her lip, "I was pulled out right after finishing primary school by my mom... Zhao Xiuxia. She wants to support her own daughter."

    Originally, Sun Chan��s studies were much better than Sun Lijuan��s, but the one who dropped out was her.

    "That��s not a problem, there are adult schools, night schools, and open universities now, all of which don��t require much in terms of qualifications, as long as you continue aiming higher in the future."

    "Really?"

    "Of course, and the tuition isn��t expensive." He smiled as he looked at Sun Chan.

    A fire of hope suddenly ignited in Sun Chan��s heart. Yes! I want to study, I want to fulfill the dreams I didn��tplete in my past life.

    Gu Junming said, "Don��t worry, I��ll help you check out the enrollment matters and help you borrow textbooks. What field do you want to study?"

    Sun Chan thought and said, "I want to be a teacher in the future, teach students. Or, I could go into nursing."

    "Alright." Gu Junming nodded with a smile, "Having a dream and then working hard for it. Also, these two types of schools are free now. The burden is quite low."

    The two chatted along the way, Gu Junming felt veryfortable with her, although she was young, she was very sensible, which made his affection for this girl rise steadily.

    But Bai Fann couldn��t feel happy at all. She dressed beautifully to join the troop��s mixer, only to find out Gu Junming wasn��t there. After asking around, she learned he went to do something else.

    Upon subtly asking the leaders, she found out Gu Junming initially agreed to participate but changed his mind knowing she wasing.

    "Even if Gu Junming isn��t here, it��s fine. There are many excellent officers and soldiers here, Doctor Bai can also enjoy many wonderful performances! Thank you for supporting our troop!"

    Bai Fann felt it was quite ironic, his words sounded nice, but who knows how he mocks her behind her back, the whole thing felt like a bucket of cold water poured over her, leaving her chilled to the bone.

    Gu Junming, do you really not want to see me? I thought that now you��re a Deputy Battalion Commander, you could be a match for me, so why are you avoiding me! Is what grandpa said true, do you really have no ce for me in your heart!

    The whole wee event passed by in a blur for her, many people looked at her with questioning eyes, not knowing why this woman was there. She wasn��t a performer, just sitting there with a cold face.

    She held on until dinner time, finally couldn��t bear it, just left without joining the evening party. Outside, the sun was already setting, darkness was nearing.

 Chapter 56: Shame and Fury

    <h4>Chapter 56: Chapter 56: Shame and Fury</h4><h4></h4>

    At this moment, she saw Xiao Wu jump down from the car; he had just returned. Listening to the singing not far away, he was eager to join in the fun.

    Bai Fann hurried over, looking around: "Did you go with Gu Junming? Where is he?"

    Xiao Wu quickly smiled and said, "Oh, it��s Doctor Bai, our boss went for the equipment."

    "Did only you two go? Was it very hard? There was no ce to eat."

    "Not hard at all! Someone brought us food."

    Bai Fann��s heart raced, and an ominous premonition surged in her heart: "Who brought the food? Was it a woman?"

    "It was Sun Chan, that girl fromst time. She��s met our boss several times now, cooks really well, but uh, Doctor Bai, where are you going..." Xiao Wu regretted seeing her expression, wondering if she was angry.

    Bai Fann was beyond angry now! Her face contorted, looking especially terrifying.

    Her heart felt like it was on fire! This country bumpkin always opposes me!

    Making me lose face several times wasn��t enough; now she wants to snatch Gu Junming away from me!

    This bitch had set her sights on Gu Junming from the first time she hurt her foot! People like Sun Chan, from a lower ss, would obviously use every opportunity to climb up thedder, even clinging to him when he��s out on missions, utterly cheap and disgusting!

    Gu Junming, you��d rather choose a poor lowly woman over me, what will others think of me if they find out I��ve lost to her! She clenched her fists, gave a vengeful nce in the direction of the camp area, and turned to leave.

    The driver looked at her, knowing she was in a bad mood, so he said nothing.

    Bai Fann suddenly wiped her eyes in anger; at first, she felt lost about Gu Junming, but now it wasplete hatred, not to mention Sun Chan.

    After returning home, before Bai Chuan even asked, he saw Yang Ban with swollen eyes, gritting her teeth. The shoes on her feet creaked on the floor.

    Bai Chuan frowned and said, "Lan, you and Gu Junming..."

    "Don��t mention his name in front of me again!" she shouted: "I hate him, I hate him to death!"

    Bai Chuan was quite calm: "What��s so great about him that makes you like this?"

    "Don��t say anymore, Grandpa." Bai Fann said with a gloomy face: "I was stupid before, but no more in the future."

    Bai Chuan patted his granddaughter��s shoulder: "Then find some time to meet with Political Commissioner Wang��s son. You��re twenty-five, not young anymore. It��ll be hard to find someone after a few more years."

    "You decide, Grandpa, I have no objection." Bai Fann said and then ran upstairs.

    Bai Chuan picked up the newspaper, finally, this granddaughter hase to her senses. Gu Junming is just a small Deputy Battalion Commander, no family backing him, sooner orter he��ll fare badly over there. I can casually find a w to get him demobilized, let��s see how he can still be arrogant then?

    Bai Fann went upstairs and copsed onto her bed. Once she closed her eyes, she remembered pping herself, humiliated in front of everyone by a small thug. She couldn��t sleep at all, still wanting to be with Gu Junming? Sheer dreand! Tossing and turning in bed for most of the night, she suddenly sat up.

    She suddenly recalled that Sun Chan��s mother and sister had once caused a scene at the hospital; it��s said that her sister is still in vocational school, unwilling to get married in the countryside, found a good job in X City, now even seducing Gu Junming, dreaming all good things will fall into herp? Dream on!

    Having thought of the n, Bai Fann went back to sleep.

    As for Gu Junming, after Xiao Wu mentioned she hade to find him, he said nothing. It was a thorough refusal; she wouldn��t chase after him anymore. This was good for everyone.

    Before resting, he wrote a very simple letter sent to Sun Chan, a confession letter, hoping Sun Chan would improve together with him and live together.

    He read it several times and then, assured, put it into an envelope. He was someone used to proactively pursuing things, and of course, his wife was something he needed to settle himself.

    Bai Fann didn��t sleep all night, and the next day she went to find Aunt Wang, but saw that Li Zhaodi fromst time was pulling Aunt Wang, asking to borrow money. The two were tussling in the corridor.

    "Aunt, please have pity on me! I only make a few dozen bucks a month now, and my family still wants half from me. I��m soon to be paid; I��ll return it all to you then."

    Aunt Wang looked helplessly at her niece: "It��s not that I don��t want to lend to you, we have several kids to feed at home, and your uncle��s health isn��t good. There��s really no money left. I��m telling you, cut down on buying those clothes and shoes! You want to look as pretty as people in the city, but how can you afford it with that little money? For a few days, just eat at the cafeteria with me, I��ll buy you food. Don��t think about the money anymore. I don��t have money to lend you, need to go, I��ll wait for you at the cafeteria at noon."

    Aunt Wang was also at a loss with this niece. Notpetent, yet terribly vain, hasn��t been here long and already buying lipsticks and hair clips like city folks, how can she afford it? Borrowed several times but never gave it back, she didn��t dare lend anymore.

    Watching Aunt Wang��s back, Li Zhaodi gritted her teeth, it��s just a few bucks, really? But besides her in the city, there��s no one else to rely on, she still had to rely on her for lunch, so she could only endure.

    Then someone behind her said, "Li Zhaodi, do you want money?"

    Li Zhaodi turned around and saw the doctor fromst time, hurriedly smiled tteringly to greet, "Doctor Bai!"

    Bai Fann went with her to a corner, straightforwardly handed her ten bucks, asking her to help find out about Sun Chan��s matters.

    "I want to know which school her sister attends."

    Li Zhaodi didn��t know what Doctor Bai was up to, but she herself hated Sun Chan thoroughly. If not for her, she��d still be working as a caregiver here, earning more, having Aunt��s help, it wouldn��t be so tiring, she messed everything up, and of course, she agreed fully.

    Aunt Wang didn��t know her niece had such intentions, during lunch casually mentioned and it all came out.

    Sun Chan was at the sanatorium,pletely unaware of their plot. Since interacting with Gu Junming, she also set a new life goal. After inquiries, she wanted to apply to the Open University��s Primary Education program.

    Because this didn��t require prior education qualifications, only needed to pass the exams. And this program was quite suitable for Sun Chan.

    Yang Liu, knowing Sun Chan��s n, was very supportive: "Sun Chan! You really have ambition, my family has junior high school textbooks, I��ll have them sent to meter. If there��s anything you don��t understand, just ask me."

    "Thank you, Yang Liu," Sun Chan said gratefully.

    "Oh, it��s nothing," she patted her chest andughed: "We��re friends, we should help each other."

 Chapter 57: Something’s About to Happen

    <h4>Chapter 57: Chapter 57: Something��s About to Happen</h4><h4></h4>

    The next day Sun Chan received a letter, and upon seeing the contents, her face flushed red and her heart raced. It felt as if everything around her ceased to exist! Gu Junming was confessing his love to her! He said he would submit a love report and marry her in the future!

    Sun Chan felt happiness hade too suddenly, and she was a bit overwhelmed, tears started rolling down.

    If in this lifetime she could truly be with someone she loves, it would be worth it! But then she thought about her own situation... Her heart started to be immensely chaotic.

    Yang Liu saw her absent-minded and chuckled, "What��s wrong with you?"

    "If your friend had far inferior conditionspared to you, what would you do? He has really good conditions," Sun Chan hesitated and asked.

    "It��s simple, you improve yourself, don��t you?" sheughed.

    Sun Chan thought about it and seriously nodded. She couldn��t change her background, so she had to make efforts in other areas to be worthy of Gu Junming.

    She hadn��t even thought about how to reply to Gu Junming yet, and Han Dong had arrived.

    This time, he came wearing a suit, his hair slicked back in the trendiest city style. Seeing him, Sun Chan couldn��t help butugh. Han Dongughed and said, "Don��t mock me! I��m about to be a boss now; I must dress a bit more maturely."

    "Be a boss? You��re quitting?"

    "I was never destined to work in an office!" Han Dong said with a grin, "I think it��s too boring, so I resigned. I got some seed money from my parents and want to try selling some fruits from the south."

    Sun Chan was surprised, not expecting him to make such a bold move! The fruit business was tough at that time, but if he really seeded, it could be quite profitable.

    Han Dong asked Sun Chan to treat him to a meal, and ate four or fiverge buns.

    Sun Chan spat, "You��re here to freeload?"

    "I��ve got money; I��ll reimburse you," Han Dong gobbled his food while ncing around, "Where��s that woman who hurt youst time?"

    "She left long ago." Sun Chan sipped her porridge slowly, "The fruit business has a lot of risks. What if the quality is poor or it goes bad?"

    Han Dong said, "My parents say the same thing. I also said I wouldn��t invest heavily; the only bit of seed money is borrowed from my mother! I��ll pay it back, don��t worry. I��ll run it carefully."

    Sun Chan felt that although he usually acted carelessly, he actually seemed quite reliable when talking about business.

    Even though things had soured between Han Dong and Lin Hongmei, Lin Hongmei often visited the arcade Han Dong used to frequent, so she knew a bit about Sun Chan��s friends.

    "Wang Dan and her husband are doing well, but it��s said she��s quitting her job."

    "She��s quitting?"

    "Yes, she said selling scarves her whole life is pointless. She��s using the dowry money and some funds from her family to sell clothes, but Lin Hongmei still looks down on her, saying she��s foolish for giving up a stable job. But I think Wang Dan is smart."

    Sun Chan nodded with a smile. He was right; Wang Dan was indeed smart. Most of that generation of entrepreneurs in thete 80s became sessful, while that store wouldn��tst for a few years before bankruptcy. Those employees in their forties would beid off without any skills, finding it hard to get work.

    In her past life, she heard Wang Dan did business in town, but she never saw her in the vige and didn��t know what happenedter.

    After lunch, Han Dong hurried off, saying he wanted to buy a batch of oranges, "Oranges taste good at this time and are cheap. I��ll get you a crate, eat and share it if you can��t finish it."

    Sun Chanughed and said, "It��s nice knowing you, always having fruits to eat."

    Han Dong left with a grin, thinking as he walked, once I achieve sess, I��ll propose to you then.

    Yang Liu��s books arrived, and apart from studying Sun Chan worked every day, her life was very fulfilling.

    But she never imagined she was about to face a storm.

    It was a sunny day outside, she was drying green bean strings outside the cafeteria when she suddenly saw Yang Liu hurrying over.

    "Sun Chan! Something happened! Your fianc�� is here, wreaking havoc at the reception area, says he wants to take you back home!"

    Sun Chan froze, "Fianc��?"

    "Yeah, he came with your sister, saying he wants to take you back to get married."

    Sun Chan gritted her teeth, "I really didn��t expect this brute coulde over here."

    She gathered herself and headed to the reception room with big strides, her heart nearly jumping out, shameless scum! Can��t stand me doing well?

    By this time, Zhou Jinzhu had already smashed everything in the reception room that could be broken. Several people couldn��t hold him back, and he yelled, "My wife ran away silently, I knew it wasn��t good! If you hadn��t taken her in, she��d have gone back to the vige! Bring my wife out now, or I won��t be polite!"

    The staff all frowned; no wonder the wife wanted to run, what kind of person is this!

    On the side, Sun Lijuan looked at the surroundings and jealousy tinged her eyes red.

    If it weren��t for a woman finding the school two days ago revealing Sun Chan��s whereabouts, she wouldn��t have known the damn girl who couldn��t even speak before had fled to such a good ce to work.

    A month��s sry was high, eating well, living well, and reportedly could even be permanent and receive housing!

    Sun Lijuan was furious enough to puke, she took leave and went back to the vige the same day to inform her mother.

    Zhao Xiuxia also cursed, "I��m busy doing chores at home, dead tired, while she��s out livingvishly!"

    The two discussed and decided to find Zhou Jinzhu. Once sold off, everything would be settled!

    After receivingpensation from Sun Lijuan��s family, Zhou Jinzhu started blind dating, but due to his infamous reputation, no good women wanted to marry him. The matchmakers introduced him only to widows with children or people with disabilities.

    Zhou Jinzhu wouldn��t ept, his heart was set on finding someone good.

    Upon hearing from Zhao Xiuxia that Sun Chan was wearing good stuff, eating well, and had lots of money, he was instantly tempted. Imagine marrying her home and casually bullying her while she earns money, how could he find any better bride?

    Zhou Jinzhu red sideways at Zhao Xiuxia, "This time don��t trick me!"

    "Rx, we��ll directly take you to seize her! If that damn girl doesn��t return, we won��t leave. Cause a scene at her workce and see if she has face to keep working! No ce to work eventually will bring her back!" Sun Lijuan recalled the time at the hospital when the damn girl dared to hit her, she was furious. This time, let��s see what she can do!

    Zhou Jinzhu then said, "Causing a fuss is fine, but how can you mess up her jobpletely! Doing this isn��t very decent!"

    If his wife got a house in the city, even he could move in. The city girls were so pretty, each one a gem! Once tired of ying, he could dump Sun Chan and find a government official��s daughter!

 Chapter 58 Shameless

    <h4>Chapter 58: Chapter 58 Shameless</h4>

    Sun Lijuan, of course, understood what Zhou Jinzhu was thinking and gritted her teeth in hatred. Why was it her turn for this kind of job? Even with a technical school diploma, she could only get into a factory. What was so great about that little bitch?

    Zhao Xiuxia, on the other hand, was very calm: "Zhou Jinzhu, this time we want eight hundred for the bride price. You know, our Sun Chan can make money, and she��s getting prettier too."

    Zhou Jinzhu red and shouted, "Are you trying to extort us? Can you raise the price at thest minute?"

    "If you��re not willing, we��ll introduce her to someone else. Anyway, someone like her is in demand, and a widower in Houshan Vige is willing to offer nine hundred! Even buying a mule costs a lot!" Sun Lijuan sneered.

    Zhou Jinzhu thought it over. Yes, with her looks, she could do farm work and make money, more suitable than a mule.

    He pped his thigh: "Fine, eight hundred it is! But let��s make it clear, once she��s brought over, we immediately share a room! Can��t have a repeat ofst time where it wasn��t counted after being set!"

    "Alright! No need for a wedding, just take her home once you��re back in the vige and start living together. But let��s make it clear, she can��t register for a marriage license with you yet, so she��s still part of the Sun Family. She��ll also have to help with our household��s farm work. If anything happens, she has toe back! And if there��s time, Sun Chan should alsoe back to cook and doundry!"

    "Alright, alright!" Zhou Jinzhu couldn��t care less; after all, he wouldn��t have to do those chores himself. As long as it didn��t prevent him from marrying and having sons.

    Sun Lijuan was delighted, Sun Chan, don��t think that you can just do as you please. Once you return to the vige, won��t everything go back to the way it was? A fate of being bullied by others? Just watch how I��ll deal with you then! I��ll scratch your pretty face first!

    Sun Lijuan had bullied Sun Chan since childhood and absolutely couldn��t see her doing better.

    After the families were done bargaining, they set out the next day, with Sun Lijuan nning to bring several uncles to capture her.

    Zhao Xiuxia said, "Are you stupid? If you tell them, won��t it mean sharing the money again? Last time we couldn��t find her in the city and I still gave them thirty yuan and treated them to a meal. This time we��ll go quietly! The three of us can��t catch her alone?"

    Sun Lijuan thought it over and agreed.

    They had everything nned well, but Zhao Xiuxia was in a hurry when leaving and identally twisted her waist, copsing to the ground, unable to move. She cried painfully: "Oh my, my waist!"

    "Mom, what do we do, let��s see a doctor first!" Sun Lijuan anxiously helped her mother up.

    "No way," Zhou Jinzhu said urgently. "It��s been a year already! You keep dragging it out, what if Sun Chan gets wind and runs away? No matter what, we must bring Sun Chan back today!"

    Zhao Xiuxia also thought it was better to bring her back sooner rather thanter. If that damn girl ran away again, and the money was gone, it would be terrible!

    She bore the pain and said to Sun Lijuan, "You two go ahead, I��ll find a barefoot doctor and get some sters. I��ll take the next bus; it��s easy to find the ce, you go quickly, don��t let her escape."

    "Mom, you��d better hurry. I don��t like being alone with Zhou Jinzhu." She nced disdainfully at Zhou Jinzhu.

    Zhou Jinzhu sneered, "Don��t worry! I have no interest in you, so ugly! Ugh!" He said and walked out.

    Sun Lijuan was furious, her liver hurt. Recently, for some reason, her face had been breaking out with lots of pimples, painful and itchy, and medicine was useless. Now being insulted by the likes of Zhou Jinzhu, how could she not be angry?

    She stomped her foot in anger: "What a jerk! Mom, look at him!"

    Zhao Xiuxia, holding her waist, said: "It��s not a bad thing if he doesn��t like you. Do you really want to be his wife? Let��s just get Sun Chan off our hands to him, then you can go to school with peace of mind! You��re just anxious, that��s why you��re breaking out."

    Thinking about Sun Chan��s miserable life toe, Sun Lijuan was pleased. She nodded: "Okay, I��ll go with him first, you better hurry!"

    "Don��t worry, don��t worry. I��ll stick the ster and head over."

    So Sun Lijuan and Zhou Jinzhu came to X City. Along the way, neither spoke, mutually displeased with each other.

    They finally got to the sanatorium, and after some discussion, Sun Lijuan and Zhou Jinzhu made a scene, the purpose was singr: to quickly bring Sun Chan back!

    When Sun Chan rushed over, she saw Zhou Jinzhu smashing things, while someone was roughly pulling on her shoulder.

    "Behave yourself!"

    "Bring my wife out, or I��ll cause a scene!" Zhou Jinzhu had the look of a scoundrel.

    Sun Chan��s supervisor was displeased as well. This ce couldn��t just let anyone create chaos. At first, they said they were workers�� rtives, which is why they were let in. Who knew it would turn into this!

    He approached Sun Chan and said, "You need to handle your matters immediately. If this continues, we can��t keep you here!"

    Sun Chan apologized: "I��m sorry, I didn��t know they��de. I��ll make them leave right away."

    "Knew it was a mistake to keep someone from the vige. Shouldn��t have epted you back then." The supervisor was angry; ever since Liu Qingshuang caused a ruckus, he��d wanted to dismiss Sun Chan too, but Mr. Yan liked her, so he��d tolerated it until now, no more tolerance.

    Sun Chan said no more, took a deep breath, and went inside.

    Sun Lijuan ran over quickly, grabbing her arm, a fake smile on her face: "Sister, we finally found you! Come back with us, brother-inw worked hard toe from so far. Don��t be stubborn,e back with me."

    Others would think she had just left after a fight with her husband.

    Sun Chan backhanded a p, sending Sun Lijuan flying straight into the wall. Everyone in the room was shocked, including Zhou Jinzhu, he��d never seen Sun Chan like this.

    Sun Lijuan��s ears buzzed, her face burning with pain; she covered her face and shouted: "Sun Chan, are you crazy?"

    Sun Chan sneered, "Crazy? You are the crazy ones! When did I ever agree to be a family with Zhou Jinzhu? I said from the start I wouldn��t marry Zhou Jinzhu! If I were willing, I wouldn��t have left back then. Are you deaf or insane, why do you keep tangling me up, afraid I might live a single good day?"

 Chapter 59 Outbreak

    <h4>Chapter 59: Chapter 59 Outbreak</h4><h4></h4>

    "Mom worked so hard to raise you, and you say that..."

    "I have no ties with Zhao Xiuxia, and you, anymore. If she wants retirement money, let her sue me. I��ll pay, but don��t expect to gain a single cent from me! And this bastard, get lost now, I won��t marry you!"

    Zhou Jinzhu shouted with eyes wide open, "You��ve got some nerve, haven��t you? Do you look down on your father? I��m telling you, I��ve already agreed with your mom, there��s over eight hundred in dowry, youe with me now, or you won��t be working here anymore!"

    "Even if I don��t work here, I won��t let you bully me! Eight hundred bucks? Even if it��s eight thousand or eighty thousand, what does it matter to me?" Sun Chan scoffed, and then told those around her, "I was an orphan picked up by the Sun Family, living like a servant since childhood. At just seventeen, not even an adult, Zhao Xiuxia is forcing me to marry this thug. Everyone can see what kind of person he is, right? If I marry someone like that, would I have a way out? My sister is counting on selling me, living a good life, eating good food and wearing nice clothes��can a person really do such a thing?"

    The crowd began discussing among themselves. At first Sun Lijuan had told everyone that her sister was escaping from the countryside driven by vanity, but now they understood��how could this man be anything good!

    The family mother actually sold Sun Chan for a few hundred bucks!

    Everyone red at Sun Lijuan with anger, growing more disgusted with Zhou Jinzhu.

    Sun Lijuan tugged on Zhou Jinzhu��s arm, "Don��t waste words with these people, this is a family matter, who can interfere?"

    "You��re right!" Zhou Jinzhu lifted his arm to hit her, "You wretched woman,e back with me and see how I deal with you!"

    The memories of being abused and bullied by Zhou Jinzhu in her past life vividly came back to Sun Chan, her hatred surged. I endured your oppression for more than twenty years, if this life continues being bullied by you, there��s no point in living!

    Seeing Zhou Jinzhu��s ugly and vicious faceing closer, without thinking, Sun Chan grabbed a teacup from the table whose owner she did not know, and smashed it against Zhou Jinzhu��s shoulder.

    Bang! A muffled sound, hot water sprayed on his face, the ss shattered directly, and the burning pain made him scream.

    "Damn woman, how dare you hit your husband! Let��s see how I��ll deal with you!"

    Sun Chan fiercely pushed Zhou Jinzhu, "Get lost! I don��t even know you, what you discussed with Zhao Xiuxia has nothing to do with me. Why should I marry you? Come at me and I��ll fight you to the death, I would rather die than marry you!" Sun Chan��s eyes were zing, filled with hatred. This further enraged Zhou Jinzhu.

    To im a woman like you, who has no parents, is a favor to you, yet you don��t appreciate it?

    "You wild spawn by the well, watch me beat you to death!" He lunged forward again.

    "Even without parents, I��m better than a beast like you who only bullies women!" Sun Chan clenched her fists, ready to fight him to the death.

    At this time, the security staff hurriedly arrived, grabbing Zhou Jinzhu, followed by a breathless Yang Liu, it turned out she hadn��t followed Sun Chan because she went to find help.

    She grabbed Sun Chan, "Are you okay?"

    Sun Chan shook her head, "I��m fine, I won��t go with these two people!"

    Zhou Jinzhu shouted, "Let go of me! You people let go of me, I��m taking my wife home!"

    Yang Liu sneered, "Sun Chan is only seventeen this year, when did she be of marrying age? Calling her your wife, aren��t you shameless? Or do you just want to be a rogue?"

    "Her mom agreed to it..."

    Sun Chan said coldly, "Zhao Xiuxia is not my mom, she doesn��t decide my marriage. Sun Lijuan is her daughter, if you want a wife, go marry Sun Lijuan."

    Sun Lijuan screamed, "I don��t want him! You insolent girl, you think you��re so tough now?" She stepped forward to hit.

    Yang Liu shouted, "Why are you still standing there! Take these two mad people to the police station, this is a ce where veteranmanderse to rx, troublemakers can��t be let off lightly!"

    A few people dragged Zhou Jinzhu outside. Zhou Jinzhu kept struggling, "Let go of me, let go! Sun Chan, you��re so heartless, kicking out your husband!"

    Sun Chan rushed over and pped him hard, "Shameless bastard, I would rather never marry than marry someone like you, who said I was going to marry you!"

    Yang Liu frowned, "Sun Chan, don��t get angry. Lock him up for a few days, and he��ll behave!"

    The security staff really obeyed, kept dragging Zhou Jinzhu outside. Zhou Jinzhu, never having suffered such a loss in his life, was hit so hard by Sun Chan his face was swelling. He began swearing viciously.

    "Sun Chan, see how many days they can lock me up! When I get out I��lle after you, drag you out and make you my wife, I won��t let you be with anyone else, even if you date someone, I��ll ruin it, by then who can you even marry!"

    Sun Lijuan was pleased, "Yes, that��s how you should handle her, see if this little brat stays arrogant."

    Sun Chan sneered, "Fine, since that��s the case, I might as well kill you right this moment, I��d rather be executed than get involved with a beast like you!" She finished speaking and suddenly picked up a shard of the broken bottle from the ground, aiming at his neck.

    No one around expected Sun Chan to do that, everyone gasped in shock, Sun Lijuan widened her eyes, too stunned to speak.

    Sun Chan had lost all reason, with only one thought left, if he ruins me and drags me back to the vige, I might as well kill him, then get executed, at least I��ll leave this world clean!

    The ss scratched through Zhou Jinzhu��s clothes, but didn��t pierce his skin, yet it made Zhou Jinzhu scream in fear, this woman was insane,pletely insane!

    Yang Liu was also taken aback, hugging her around the waist, "Sun Chan, calm down,e back!"

    Sun Chan struggled, "You heard him, he��ll cling to me for life, if I let someone like him ruin me, I might as well kill him! Let me go, I��m going to kill him!"

    Yang Liu and several coworkers couldn��t hold her back.

    At that moment, a hand stretched out from behind, pulling Yang Liu aside, fiercely grabbing Sun Chan��s wrist, dragging her several meters away.

    "What��s going on here?" A deep male voice.

    Sun Chan didn��t recognize this person, but many others did, shouting out in unison, "It��s Director Yan!"

    This man was about the same height as Gu Junming, but paler, with a very stern expression, he was Commander Yan��s son, Yan Kai. He was visiting his father, passing by the reception room, heard themotion inside, came over to see, and found a female attendant threatening to kill, so he came in to stop her.

 Chapter 60: Why Don’t You Want Her?

    <h4>Chapter 60: Chapter 60: Why Don��t You Want Her?</h4><h4></h4>

    Sun Chan was panting heavily and nced at the person; he was a soldier.

    She tidied her hair. Her voice trembled continuously: "This man wants to forcefully marry me and threatens me if I refuse!"

    "Put down the ss shard, trust me. This is the new society; no one can force you to do something you don��t want." With that, he snatched the ss from her hand. Sun Chan had used so much force earlier that she didn��t realize her hand was bleeding.

    Yang Liu ran over and grabbed her hand: "Are you okay? Does it hurt?"

    Sun Chan didn��t speak, ring at Zhou Jinzhu as if she wished she could bite a chunk out of him.

    Sun Lijuan was unwilling to give up, hurriedly saying, "Zhou Jinzhu, are you a man or not? Can��t even control your own woman. You should just take her back; after all, you��re a couple..."

    Sun Chan rushed over before she finished speaking and grabbed her neck tightly: "Who is a couple with her! You��re just a spiteful person who can��t stand to see me happy, aren��t you?"

    She hated Zhou Jinzhu and equally hated Sun Lijuan. In previous lives, she had schemed behind her back, taking money from Zhou Jinzhu! Her own flesh and blood were devoured by these mother and daughter, while trampling her!

    Sun Lijuan��s face turned blue, her tongue sticking out, nearly fainting from suffocation.

    If it weren��t for Yan Kai��s timely intervention, Sun Lijuan might have been dead. She sat on the ground, coughing constantly, tears streaming down. Her face and neck were smeared with Sun Chan��s blood, looking terrifying.

    Sun Chan was restrained, her hands immobilized, so she resorted to kicking Sun Lijuan: "You cannibalistic mongrels, I��ll fight you to the end!"

    "Calm down!" Yan Kai had never seen such an impulsive woman before, so small yet so strong that even he, a soldier, struggled to control her.

    Zhou Jinzhu looked at Sun Chan��s condition, his mind in chaos.

    Originally, he valued Sun Chan being obedient and sensible, capable of work, but she��s like this! Bringing her home might lead to her poisoning the family someday!

    Sun Chan��s expression, with bloodshot eyes and gritted teeth, reminded him of his own mother, who cursed for days over trifles.

    Zhou Jinzhu suddenly shouted: "No more! I don��t want Sun Chan! Eight hundred yuan for a shrew? Forget it!"

    Sun Lijuan became anxious upon hearing this: "What are you saying? We��ve agreed on this; how can you say no?"

    Eight hundred yuan, all in vain?

    Absolutely infuriating!

    "I don��t want her! Let me go, I don��t want her!" He struggled free from those restraining him, pointedly indicating Sun Chan, and coldly dered: "Listen, it��s me who doesn��t want you. With such a fiery attitude, you��ll never get married. I don��t want you, Ding Hu doesn��t want you. Just wait and see how you��ll find a husband!"

    Sun Chanughed, genuinely pleased: "Fine, remember your words. Be a man, don��t speak like you��re farting. If youe pestering me again, I��ll tear your mouth apart!"

    Zhou Jinzhu was a typical male chauvinist, incited by Sun Chan to shout: "You lousy girl, you think you��re all that? Even if you kneel down begging, I won��t have you!" With that, he stormed off in anger.

    Su Lijuan was in a panic. What��s happening? It��spletely different from what was agreed! We were supposed to take Sun Chan back! She tried pulling Zhou Jinzhu back, but he harshly brushed her aside.

    "Get lost! Don��t touch me."

    Sun Lijuan red at Sun Chan, teeth clenched: "You really are ruthless! Just wait and see!"

    She hurriedly followed, but Sun Chan stopped her at the door: "Hold on! Who told you about my job here?"

    Sun Lijuan��s eyes glimmered, then she snorted: "Why should I tell you? You know who knows you��re here. Sun Chan, you��re really obnoxious! Don��t think you can keep working here. Just wait and see!" With that, she left.

    Sun Chan pondered. Wang Dan was unlikely; if she betrayed, someone would��vee earlier. Besides, she wasn��t close to Sun Lijuan, and she was married, so a connection with Sun Lijuan seemed imusible.

    Han Dong didn��t even know Sun Lijuan, leaving Bai Fann as the only possibility.

    Bai Fann had spoken ill of her to Mr. Yanst time and was rebuked. Considering past conflicts, a retaliatory act wasn��t impossible.

    Sun Chan clenched her fists, staring at Sun Lijuan��s departing figure, feeling anxious.

    Even upon her rebirth, she hadn��t harmed anyone, yet they couldn��t tolerate her happiness!

    Yan Kai walked up to her: "You should get your hand checked; it��s still bleeding."

    Sun Chan lowered her head, noticing her injury only now with the rxation of her tension. The pain now became evident.

    "Thank you, Leader. I��ll go get it checked." She managed a smile for Yan Kai and headed outside.

    Feeling ufortable all over, Yang Liu grabbed her again: "Are you alright? You��re trembling."

    "I��m fine." Sun Chan barely managed to say this before losing consciousness with a ckout.

    Before fainting, she saw Yan Kai rushing to hold her forehead, shouting something. She wanted to say she was fine, but couldn��t make a sound.

    Sun Chan was taken to the infirmary.

    Zhou Jinzhu and Sun Lijuan were already kicked out of the sanatorium.

    Sun Lijuan watched Zhou Jinzhu walk ahead, furious, and rushed to grab his arm.

    "What��s wrong with you? Don��t you know why you came? If they know you were kicked out, you��ll be aughingstock!"

    Zhou Jinzhu shook Sun Lijuan off, impatiently: "Go away, I don��t want to talk to you!"

    Damn it, eight hundred yuan for a shrew for a wife; it��s a scam! Besides, with her temper, she can��t work for the family. Better to buy a mule instead. He cursed Sun Lijuan under his breath, wishing he could kick her to death.

    But Sun Lijuan was relentless behind him: "Are you a fool? You see Sun Chan��s earnings, they��d be yours if you took her home. A wife like that, and you��re scared of her? Have some pride, manly man or not?"

    She wanted Zhou Jinzhu to take Sun Chan back!

    Zhou Jinzhu turned to re at Sun Lijuan, his teeth clenched: "Shut up!"

    Then he continued walking forward, tall cornfields on either side. It was a long way to the bus station. As he thought more, he grew angrier. What was I doing here? All due to Zhao Xiuxia and Sun Lijuan, those two bitches always causing trouble.

 Chapter 61: Serves You Right

    <h4>Chapter 61: Chapter 61: Serves You Right</h4><h4></h4>

    Sun Lijuan was exceedingly anxious at this moment��eight hundred bucks just gone like that? She had been talking behind Zhou Jinzhu for ages, all just to persuade him to bring Sun Chan back as his wife. Zhou Jinzhu thought this Sun Li Juan was a bit like his mom, endlessly prattling on and on, like an annoying fly buzzing around��what a nag!

    At home, Sun Lijuan was being spoilt by her mother beyond measure. Seeing Zhou Jinzhupletely ignoring her set her aze with anger. She furiously shoved his shoulder: "I��m talking to you, can��t you hear, you useless good-for-nothing! You can��t even handle a little girl, what��s the point of your existence?"

    Zhou Jinzhu stumbled,nding on his butt, and stared back at Sun Lijuan with fury.

    Sun Lijuan snorted��turns out he was indeed a worthless bum! With one hand on her hip and the other pointing at Zhou Jinzhu, she eximed, "Idiot, fool, no wonder Sun Chan doesn��t want you. With your kind, even throwing money around won��t get you a good wife. Expect to stay a bachelor for life!"

    After her tirade, she even kicked Zhou Jinzhu, walking ahead,pletely oblivious to the fire of fury in the man��s eyes.

    Who could��ve guessed, after only a few steps, a hand from behind grabbed Sun Lijuan, dragging her into a nearby cornfield.

    Sun Lijuan shouted, "What are you trying to do? Acting like a thug, let go!"

    Zhou Jinzhu grinned wickedly, "Isn��t that exactly what I want to do��y the thug? Weren��t you saying I��d never get a wife? Let me show you if I have the skills to get a wife!"

    Sun Lijuan couldn��t help but shudder; seeing his beastly gaze, her soul seemed to soar beyond the firmament. She had forgotten what kind of person Zhou Jinzhu was, focused solely on getting Sun Chan to exchange for money, not remembering past events at all!

    "Zhou Jinzhu, let go! My mom will be here soon to find me. Your wife isn��t me, it��s Sun Chan! No, go away, bawling..."

    Sun Lijuan was dragged into the cornfield by Zhou Jinzhu, her mouth covered, as he tore at her clothes, cursing all the while.

    "Stinking woman, for badmouthing me, looking this ugly and still daring to flirt!"

    "If you dare touch me, I��ll report you, have you executed!" Sun Lijuan fought back with her fists and kicks.

    Zhou Jinzhu sneered, "Go ahead, by then you��ll be paraded as a public spectacle in shame, and it won��t be good for you either!"

    This was truly a case of evil meeting evil. Who would have thought Sun Lijuan was so proud in her past life, yet was bullied by Zhou Jinzhu in this life.

    To be honest, Zhou Jinzhu had no interest in her, not as attractive as Sun Chan, with bad skin, covered in e, and blood stains on her neck and face from earlier scratches from Sun Chan. Just looking at her made him nauseous, but recalling her contempt for him, he acted purely out of spite.

    Sun Lijuan screamed a few times, but her mouth was finally stuffed with a foul sock.

    After an unknown length of time, a gust of wind blew by, rustling sounds echoed from the cornfield, along with the faint sound of sobbing.

    Zhou Jinzhu spat on the ground while dressing, "Pah! Dare to insult me, now you��ll remember this!"

    "Zhou Jinzhu, you��re not human!" Sun Lijuan sobbed, her clothes torn to shreds, her body bruised and battered, she was in enough pain to nearly faint.

    She had hoped to marry someone with authority, be an official��s wife, at the very least marry someone wealthy.

    Now look at this, vited by a lowlife, that beast wasn��t a human at all!

    Zhou Jinzhu felt ted, whistling, "Watch your mouth next time!"

    Sun Lijuan grabbed a handful of dirt and threw it at Zhou Jinzhu��s face, "Even so, I��ll never marry you!"

    Zhou Jinzhu sneered, "When did I say I wanted to marry you? If I had to find a wife, I��d look for a good one. You��re not fit! Disgrace!" After speaking, he walked away, leaving Sun Lijuan sobbing in the dirt. How was she going to handle this? She had always been domineering, but now she couldn��te up with a single solution.

    After a long while, Sun Lijuan finally emerged from the cornfield, her body burning with pain, limping as she walked, tears streaming down her face, both aggrieved and furious.

    Zhao Xiuxia was rushing in, her backache much better after applying a patch.

    Her mind was still calcting how to spend the over eight hundred��first buy her daughter a bike and a watch, then rent a ce in town, let Sun Chan handle the farmwork, so she could enjoy life in the city!

    Seeing her daughter from afar, she hurriedly ran over, "How did it go? Did Zhou Jinzhu leave with Sun Chan?"

    Seeing her mother, Sun Lijuan immediately burst into tears, "Mom, I was vited! That beast Zhou Jinzhu did it!"

    "What did you say?" Zhao Xiuxia��s mind went nk, nearly fainting on the spot. Her precious daughter was really... Getting closer confirmed it, her daughter covered with wounds, and blood stains on her pants, she looked utterly pitiful.

    Zhao Xiuxia cried, losing all sense of direction, "My poor Juan��er, how could this happen? Damn Zhou Jinzhu, does he want to have both sisters?"

    Sun Lijuan gritted her teeth, "Sun Chan, that wretched girl, wouldn��te out. Everyone inside was helping him, Zhou Jinzhu said he didn��t want her anymore. Can��t get a wife so he takes it out on me, what do I do, mom! Wailing..."

    Zhao Xiuxia cursed in rage, damn Sun Chan, ruining things repeatedly, now dragging her own sister into misery!

    "Mom, what do I do now? Just let him bully me for nothing?" Sun Lijuan seethed with hatred for Zhou Jinzhu, wanting nothing more than to kill him!

    Zhao Xiuxia gritted her teeth, "We��ll have to swallow this loss. Pretend you got bitten by a dog. But we��ll find an opportunity to deal with himter. Right now, getting Sun Chan back is crucial!" Shecked shame, not finding any disgrace in what happened with Zhou Jinzhu, mostly worried it would affect her future marriage prospects.

    Sun Lijuan nowid all her resentment on Sun Chan.

    "That wretched Sun Chan is ruthless now, if we don��tpletely ruin her, she��ll surely seek revenge on us in the future."

    "Heh, is there only one Zhou Jinzhu without a wife in the world?" Zhao Xiuxia squinted her eyes, venomously said, "We��ll sell her off to the mountains. Sell her to those widowers who can��t find wives as wives!"

    Sun Lijuan pped in approval, "Yes, she has to repay my suffering tenfold!"

    But Zhao Xiuxia and Sun Lijuan couldn��t do it alone, they had to seek help from rtives. The more remote the origin, the tougher the conditions, the higher the offering. Zhao Xiuxia��s elder brother Zhao Long at least found one, a family with two sons, reportedly making decent money hunting in winter, but having a bad temper, previously his wives were bullied into jumping into the river.

    Upon hearing Sun Chan was beautiful and capable of making money, they agreed on a dowry of two thousand, with the condition she serve as a wife for both brothers without seeking another.

    Zhao Xiuxia��s eyes shone at the price, "Great! So much money, no problem!" She couldn��t care less about Sun Chan��s fate. With this much money, she could already save for her daughter��s dowry.

 Chapter 62: The Heart Has Turned Completely Black

    <h4>Chapter 62: Chapter 62: The Heart Has Turned Completely ck</h4><h4></h4>

    Sun Lijuan was also overjoyed, and her brothers wanted to share the money, so they all agreed to go. Sun Lijuan originally wanted to go with them, but unfortunately, she was weak and constantly bleeding, struggling to get out of bed, so she had to give up.

    "Mom, give her a good beating before sending her into the mountains!" Sun Lijuan instructed.

    "Don��t worry!" Zhao Xiuxia sneered, "Those two brothers are not good people, they��ll definitely make her suffer! Let her be arrogant, not willing to marry Zhou Jinzhu, now she��ll spend her whole life in the mountains!"

    Thinking of the life that Sun Chan would endure for theing decades, she was extremely excited and happy; a wild child abandoned by the well, totally undeserving of a good life!

    Zhao Xiuxia, along with the brothers, headed back in a grand manner, her mother was bound to see her, wasn��t she? As long as they lured her out, they could directly put her into a sack and send her to the mountains.

    But who knew, when they arrived, the main gate was tightly shut, not letting them in.

    "The leadership has instructed that after this big incident, any visiting family members must have permission from the person inside before they can let them in. Sun Chan won��te out to see you."

    Zhao Xiuxia pped her thigh in anger: "What��s going on! I��m the wretch��s real mother, and I��m not allowed to meet her! Such an ungrateful child! Tell her to get out, I��ve raised her for nothing for years? You��re just a gatekeeper, why put on airs, hurry up and let Sun Chan out or I won��t leave!"

    The guard sneered, "She doesn��t want to see you, what��s it got to do with me? Better leave, or we��ll call the police! This ce is full of senior leaders, it��s not a ce for you to make trouble!" After saying that, the person walked away. They even tried to use the vige tricks of being shameless!

    Seeing the person leave, Zhao Xiuxia and the others dared not curse. If they really got taken by the police, it would be troublesome.

    Zhao Long started smoking again, "If you hade to us from the start, this wouldn��t have happened. Now, who knows how long it will take to find her. Plus, I heard things are getting stricter, those involved in trafficking are scared. They say they��re being shot if caught. Keep dragging it on, and no one will dare to buy."

    Zhao Xiuxia felt a tightness in her chest, sat on the ground, and cried. What is this! That little wretch is fine, but her precious daughter was ruined, and now two thousand is just at hand yet out of reach, so frustrating and infuriating.

    When Sun Chan woke up, her hands hurt, and she was sweating profusely, dreaming of being beaten and scolded by Zhou Jinzhu in her past life, the despair and sorrow were vividly clear. Although she couldn��t move, her mind was very clear, constantly reminding herself never to return to her old path!

    She opened her eyes to see Yang Liu looking at her with red eyes, holding her hand tightly upon seeing her awake.

    Sun Chan looked at Yang Liu with gratitude; she really was a good person. Then she saw the hospital��s director behind her, looking at her displeasedly, but due to Mr. Yan and Yan Kai��s presence, he didn��t dare to say something.

    Mr. Yan said, "Are you alright?"

    Sun Chan hurriedly said, "It��s because of the leader..."

    "Just lie down!" Mr. Yan waved his hand, frowning slightly, "I heard from Yan Kai that those people want to sell you?"

    "Yes, I want to resign and leave here as soon as possible."

    "No way!" The director quickly said, "You��re doing well, why resign?"

    He knew that the old Sir Yan cared for this little girl, at the start he really wanted to fire Sun Chan, but seeing the Yan family��s attitude now, he absolutely couldn��t do so, otherwise people would think him selfish.

    Sun Chan gave a bitter smile, "You don��t understand my stepmother and sister, they will definitelye back and make trouble, continue selling me for money, Zhou Jinzhu doesn��t want me, they can sell me to the mountains for more money." In her past life, she heard about what kind of ce Xiong��er Ridge was.

    Zhao Xiuxia often scolded her when she was young, "You just eat and do no work, be careful, I��ll sell you to Xiong��er Ridge!"

    The terrain there is remote, surrounded by mountains. Once someone is sold there, it��s hard to get out, and the local customs are fierce,pletely ignorant ofw and discipline. They think beating their wives is okay, if they die, just bury them and find another. So, ever since the vige was established hundreds of years ago, countless girls disappeared in the mountains, bing wrongful spirits.

    In her past life, she agreed to marry Zhou Jinzhu quickly, fearing being sold into the mountains.

    Yang Liu trembled with rage, "What era is it, and things like this still happen! It��s outrageous!"

    Sun Chan bit her lip, "The price they offer is high, my stepmother won��t give up."

    The director looked back at Yan Kai, though the old Mr. Yan was dignified, the one with actual power was Yan Kai.

    Even though Yan Kai was meeting Sun Chan for the first time, he had heard her name several times before. Earlier, the old Sir Yan mentioned her several times over the phone, about that rainy day and the confrontation with Bai Fann.

    "This little girl may seem delicate, but deep inside she��s extraordinarily stubborn, with a strong backbone! It��s just a pity she hasn��t studied much, if there��s a chance, she should be helped."

    So when he saw Sun Chan arguing with those two coercers this time, Yan Kai didn��t find her rude; instead, he felt the girl had character.

    Now hearing Sun Chan wanted to leave, he frowned, "You want to leave just because those people are after you?"

    Sun Chan nodded, "My stepmother, though widowed, has many brothers on her side, so no one dares to bully her. This time, after a spat with them, they��ll definitelye back with others. I can��t hide here forever; they��ll catch me eventually. I can only leave."

    Yan Kai said, "And then? Where do you n to go? Are you going to spend your life running from them, abandoning your job because of them?"

    Sun Chan didn��t speak, fleeing from the vige to the town was no good, nor was fleeing to X City. Should she flee to the provincial capital, or another province?

    What if she encountered familiar people who searched her out again?

    Yet if she didn��t leave, and those people continued to cause trouble at the sanatorium, catching her off guard and seizing her... Zhao Xiuxia showed no humanity towards her.

    Yang Liu also said, "You can��t leave, it��s not your fault, why should you leave?"

    "But I don��t want the fights because of me to affect the sanatorium��s work."

    Yan Kai frowned, "This isn��t just about you, it��s been years since the founding of New China, and there��s still human trafficking. This trend needs to be curbed! I won��t allow it, I��ll speak to myrades here, just don��t concern yourself with this issue anymore."

    Yan Kai elevated the issue to a new level. It��s not just personal grievances but a serious social problem!

 Chapter 63: Response

    <h4>Chapter 63: Chapter 63: Response</h4>

    He said to Sun Chan, "Don��t be afraid, we��ll help you. If you just leave like this, you��ll end up being bullied for a lifetime. Anyway, take a rest for now." After finishing, Yan Kai nodded to his father, "Dad, let��s go. Let her rest first, I need to discuss something with you."

    Mr. Yan agreed andforted Sun Chan with a few words, "I can see you��re a girl with great courage and determination. Hang in there."

    Sun Chan nodded, "Thank you, sir."

    Mr. Yan noticed her pale face, frowned slightly, but said nothing, and left with Yan Kai.

    The two of them went into the corridor, Mr. Yan then said, "Are you really going to stand up for her? You don��t seem to have the authority to bring anyone along."

    Yan Kai replied indifferently, "The ravine Sun Chan mentioned is right around the border area. Also, the criminals there are very cunning; recently during investigations, once we got just a little close, they immediately retreated."

    Mr. Yan paused for a moment before nodding, "Very good. This n to mislead the enemy and kill two birds with one stone, truly my son is capable of thinking of it."

    "As long as you don��t oppose, I��ll take people up the mountain. Now I need to report this to superiors. Let��s act early!"

    Mr. Yan patted his son��s shoulder, showing great satisfaction with his son��s smart mind.

    In Yan Kai��s eyes, there was a hint of excitement and anticipation. This was the first thing he thought of after hearing Sun Chan talk about Xiong��er Ridge, in peaceful times, opportunities like this are rare, and he urgently needed capital for advancement.

    Meanwhile, Yang Liu helped Sun Chan back to her dormitory room. Along the way, Sun Chan felt her entire body aching, she was about to fall ill due to Zhou Jinzhu and their provocations. She never imagined her adoptive mother and sister to be so cruel! Even if she left the vige and county, they wouldn��t let her go.

    Yang Liu helped Sun Chan onto the bed, feeling a severe headache, she did not want to continue to be entangled with Zhao Xiuxia, she must find a way to make them stop for good, otherwise once Zhou Jinzhu is gone, they might sell her to an even worse family!

    Yang Liu saw her frowning and softly said, "Sun Chan, don��t worry, the officer��s son is very capable, he will definitely help you."

    Sun Chan didn��t speak; she felt embarrassed troubling the officer. Considering the time, today is Tuesday, possibly she could make a call, she coughed a few times and then said, "Yang Liu, can you help me make a call."

    "Sure, to whom?"

    She found the piece of paper left by Gu Junming before, "Gu Junming, he is... he��s my big brother." Sun Chan finished with a blush, feeling very embarrassed, but at this moment, Gu Junming was the only one who could help her.

    With no further thoughts, Yang Liu took the note and went out.

    After Yang Liu left, Sun Chan fell asleep on her bed, drifting between dreams and wakefulness, periodically dreaming she was sold to someone, facing daily beatings and scolding, dreaming of running in the mountains, clearly everywhere was road, yet there was never an exit, only people chasing and beating her, feeling desperate, she kneeled on the ground crying bitterly.

    Sun Chan suddenly sat up, breathing heavily, covered in cold sweat, clutching the nket beside her tightly, waves of hatred rose in her heart toward Zhao Xiuxia.

    You might not love me, might use me, demand I repay you for raising me, but why do you insist on ruining me like this? Two lifetimes, can��t you show me even a little humanity?

    Gu Junming sat under themp mending socks, the room��s furnishing was simple, a few books on the table in front of him, alongside a globe, with an aluminum lunch box on top. His eyes swept over the lunchbox, feeling a tug at his heart, wondering how Sun Chan was doing. The letter he sent, she still hadn��t replied.

    Just as he thought of her, someone knocked on the door outside: "The Deputy Battalion Commander has a call!"

    Gu Junming frowned slightly, "Whose call is it? For family calls, just say I��m not here."

    Lately, his father had been pushing him hard to return home for matchmaking.

    Since hest mentioned being unsuitable with Bai Fann, Gu Zishan started searching for candidates, wanting him to settle down with a woman sooner, the rtionship between father and son already as such, hoping to sooner have a grandson, hoping to bridge generational closeness.

    Wang Guihua very enthusiastically even personally introduced him to a cultural female soldier she knew through her father: "This girl��s background is good, all from military families, it will be beneficial to your future, cherish this opportunity."

    Gu Zishan also thought it was quite favorable, persuading on the phone, "This girl��s parents are in the provincial city, they could be greatly beneficial to your career..."

    Gu Junming firmly interrupted his father��s words, "My wife doesn��t need any background, just needs to be the person I love, that��s enough. I absolutely won��t let her be a tool for my promotion. After all, I��m not like you."

    "Gu Junming! What are you saying..." Gu Zishan trembled with anger, "Do you think I��m a petty person relying on women?"

    "My marriage, I decide for myself, you don��t need to worry." Gu Junming hung up the phone.

    In theing days, as long as it was Gu Zishan calling, he wouldn��t answer, so when he heard of the call, Gu Junming��s first thought was his father pressuring marriage again.

    "It��s a woman. Her voice sounded unfamiliar," the young soldier smiled cheekily.

    Gu Junming suddenly felt some anticipation and quickly went to take the call.

    On the other end was Yang Liu��s voice, "I��m Sun Chan��s friend, something��s happened to her!" Yang Liu quickly exined everything, hearing that even in X City, Sun Chan was being troubled by her adoptive mother, Gu Junming tightly grasped the receiver, stirred, with a sharp glint in his eyes, yet his voice remained calm.

    "I understand, thank you." He hung up the phone.

    Yang Liu heard the beeping sound from the phone, was momentarily stunned, wondering what sort of person was this, hearing such a serious situation, yet showing no emotional tone, was he an iceberg? Sun Chan actually thought this man was reliable.

    Yang Liu angry and frustrated returned, intending toin but seeing Sun Chan already asleep, decided not to, sighing.

    She��s already suffered enough misfortune, why provoke her more.

    If it really doesn��t work out should I ask my dad for help? She quickly dismissed her thought, pursing her lips, no way she��d beg him even if she died. Hmph!

    Zhao Xiu and a few brothers didn��t leave, instead found a nearby guesthouse to stay in temporarily, still nning how to sell Sun Chan.

    Zhao Xiuxia was furious, head aching, developing a few red spots on her forehead, "I can��t have taken care of her for nothing all along. This isn��t over! If she seizes the chance to run away, then what? No, I must go back, drag her out!"

    She finished speaking and made to leave, but was stopped by several brothers.

    Her elder brother Zhao Long said, "The little girl is right in there. You think, with such a good job, who would willingly give it up? As long as she doesn��t leave, we��ll find a way."

 Chapter 64 Strategy

    <h4>Chapter 64: Chapter 64 Strategy</h4>

    Zhao Xiuxia hurriedly said, "Big brother, you��re right! What should we do? We can��t dy any longer! I have to quickly go back and see my daughter."

    Her precious daughter was harmed because of that bitch Sun Chan, who caused her to be bullied by Zhou Jinzhu. Of course, she couldn��t say this aloud.

    Zhao Long said, "Tomorrow, go and apologize to Sun Chan. Ask her to meet you."

    "Why should I?" Zhao Xiuxia red. "I raised her, even if she has to die, she��d still have to listen to me! She expects me to bow down and admit my mistake? She should see if she��s worth it first!"

    Her brother Zhao Biaoughed, "Sis, it��s easy for you to say. If you tell her to die, would she listen? If she really listened, she would��ve gone back to live with Zhou Jinzhu long ago, right?"

    Zhao Xiuxia��s face changed. Since the girl left the vige, she had truly changed. Sharp and indifferent, not listening to a word,pletely uncontroble.

    Zhao Long said, "You need to be adaptable. As long as shees out to meet you, it��s easier to handle. Be a bit nicer, and when you coax her out, our people can directly abduct her. Others won��t interfere, after all, it��s a mother looking for her daughter. If she doesn��te out, even the leaders would gossip."

    "That��s right, big sister. Otherwise, we��ll waste money every day waiting here. No one��s tending to the crops either." Zhao Biao, being impatient, was a little frustrated.

    Zhao Xiuxia thought for a moment, then gritted her teeth and said, "I understand. I��ll say some nice things to this little tramp and give her a little sweetener."

    Early the next morning, when Sun Chan woke up, everyone in the dorm was gone. Yang Liu left her some porridge and a note asking her to rest, saying she had helped request leave.

    She felt grateful in her heart, gently touching the warm porridge bowl with her hand.

    Thedy downstairs came up and said someone was looking for her: "It��s someone in military uniform, looking quite spirited."

    Sun Chan was excited. She put on her clothes and went downstairs, seeing Gu Junming on the first floor with sharp eyebrows, a starry gaze, and a serious expression.

    "How did youe..." She walked over, though she had asked Yang Liu to make a call, she was still surprised to see him here.

    "I left at midnight." Gu Junming, straightforward, said: "Let��s discuss what to do now."

    Sun Chan was dressed inly in a blue overcoat and ck pants, a very ordinary attire, yet she looked veryforting. However, she seemed thinner, which made one feel sorry for her.

    Sun Chan lowered her head and said, "I don��t want to hurt anyone, I just want them to stop bothering me."

    "I understand. I just met Yan Kai and know he is preparing. Let��s eat first."

    Sun Chan didn��t feel like eating but thought it was a chance to talk with Gu Junming and agreed.

    The two walked outside together, keeping a moderate distance. People were conservative these days, and being too intimate wasn��t appropriate.

    "Zhao Xiuxia will definitely sell me to Xiong��er Ridge. It��s the closest to X City, and the terrain is difficult. If they catch me, they need to sell me quickly, it must be there."

    "We thought of that too." Yan Kai was actively preparing to go to Xiong��er Ridge, and Gu Junming roughly knew Yan Kai��s n.

    In fact, they had some disputes over this matter. Yan Kai��s suggestion was for Sun Chan to pretend to be tricked by her mother, then they would quickly enter the mountains to rescue her, which was rejected by Gu Junming: "Xiong��er Ridge isn��t an ordinary ce, the people there are shameless and vicious. If they harm Sun Chan halfway, or discover the tracking, or act out of desperation, what will you do?"

    Yan Kai frowned and said, "Without someone being tricked in, how can we find an excuse to rescue? I assure you my people will ensure her safety, you can rest assured."

    "Better safe than sorry, we can��t risk the lives of the people." Gu Junming firmly stood his ground.

    Yan Kai and Gu Junming had dealt with each other before, knowing each other for years, serving in different military regions, but aware of each other��s existence. Yan Kai held a higher position, but he knew Gu Junming was no ordinary person, capable and strategic, with recent battle achievements, so he paid attention to this potential rival. However, they usually had a good rtionship.

    This time, neither was willing topromise on using Sun Chan as bait.

    Yan Kai suddenly looked at Gu Junming and asked, "What is your rtionship with Sun Chan...?"

    Gu Junming didn��t hesitate: "The rtionship you��re thinking of. We can��t risk her." He thought to himself, this woman is the one I love and definitely can��t be a scapegoat for someone else��s sess.

    Yan Kai suddenlyughed; he should have figured. Running here in the middle of the night to argue for so long, this woman definitely wasn��t just a simple friend. However, Gu Junming even considered marrying someone with no background who wouldn��t help his career, which seemed overly noble. But ultimately, it was beneficial for himself, and since it was Gu Junming��s choice, he didn��t say much.

    "In any case, I won��t let Sun Chan act as bait." Gu Junming reiterated his stance.

    "Then what should we do?" Yan Kaipromised, not wanting to be enemies with Gu Junming because of Sun Chan.

    "I��ll think about it, I��lle up with a n. I��m going to eat now, you should visit the old chief too." Gu Junming said and went to find Sun Chan.

    The two talked slowly along the path to the canteen.

    Gu Junming secretly watched Sun Chan��s profile, her eyes like autumn water, her delicate brows slightly furrowed, looking very calm. She hadn��t uttered a single word of resentment or grievance to him.

    From the few words she said before, it was clear that Sun Chan must have suffered a lot in her seventeen years of life, making him feel heartache.

    Sun Chan suddenly stopped and looked at him: "I��ve thought of a n."

    Gu Junming was stunned, realizing she had been thinking of a n just now.

    Sun Chan exined her idea, and Gu Junming listened with a frown, then said: "Will it work? If they don��t follow your n, things might get messy."

    "Don��t worry, I know Zhao Xiuxia best. She will definitelye for me, trick me out, then we can counter their plot. After this, she won��t dare mess with me again."

    Gu Junming looked at Sun Chan, thinking how calm this small person was.

    "Alright, let��s go with your n."

    "What about the other women trafficked there?" Sun Chan slightly frowned, "There are quite a few people tricked to that ce."

    "Don��t worry about that, I��ll discuss it with Yan Kai, leave the specific matters to me. I can��t enter your dorm, I��ll have someone bring you some foodter."

    Sun Chan hurriedly said, "You��ve already been troubled enough, no need to be so courteous."

    Gu Junming smiled, "You don��t need to thank me. Saving the people is our duty. Besides, my feelings for you aren��t ordinary."

    Sun Chan avoided his gaze, feeling her heart slightly warm.

 Chapter 65: Taking the Bait

    <h4>Chapter 65: Chapter 65: Taking the Bait</h4><h4></h4>

    "We can discuss thister; let��s solve the problem first."

    Sun Chan blushed and nodded.

    Gu Junming walked a few steps with a cheerful smile, suddenly turned back, and took her hand. Sun Chan felt panicky at first, then realized something cool was in her palm. She looked down and saw a piece of crispy candy wrapped in red stic, a white candy block, small and shiny.

    Gu Junming smiled at her, "When my sister was a child, she went out to pull weeds and got scared by a mouse. She kept crying, so my dad gave her this candy to eat, and she felt better after eating it. Here, take it and don��t be afraid."

    "Okay." She wanted to say that she wasn��t a child anymore, but she still smiled and nodded.

    "Wait for my news." Gu Junming said and left.

    Sun Chan sucked on the candy, her eyes felt a bit teary. In two lifetimes, this was the first time she ate such a delicious candy.

    Yan Kai met with Gu Junming, who told him Sun Chan��s solution.

    "How is it? Finally, we found a woman to be cannon fodder, but we can guarantee the hostage��s safety, right?"

    Yan Kai replied, "No problem."

    Sun Chan returned to the dormitory and washed the dirty clothes she had changed out of. Just as she finished hanging them out to dry, Yang Liu came in, cing a lunchbox in front of Sun Chan.

    Inside was cabbage and potato slices, along with two cornmeal pancakes, handed to Sun Chan: "Your lunch."

    "Who sent it?" Sun Chan regretted asking after she did; Deputy Battalion Commander Gu mentioned sending food. If the other dormitory members heard, it wouldn��t be good.

    Yang Liu squeezed her eyes, smiled, and said, "Of course, I gave it to you. Eat quickly." While lifting the lid, she pulled Sun Chan aside, giggling, "What��s your rtionship with the Deputy Battalion Commander?"

    "No, no rtion. He��s really just an elder brother I know." She was too shy to lift her head.

    "Humph! Going all mysterious, I��ll interrogate youter." Yang Liu knew well but didn��t expose her, yawned, and went to sleep.

    Sun Chan just ate this for lunch; dinner was with Gu Junming and Yan Kai in the cafeteria.

    Mainly discussing Zhao Xiuxia��s situation, making a preliminary contact.

    Yan Kai listened to Sun Chan��s idea, feeling a bit surprised; this girl wasn��t as weak as she appeared.

    The next morning, after eight o��clock, just as Sun Chan predicted, Zhao Xiuxia arrived. She stood outside the door, intentionally wearing old gray clothes, her hair disheveled, not making a fuss, but covering her face crying, looking haggard, like a pitiful yet loving mother.

    She told the guard, "Let me see my daughter! My daughter did something wrong; I��m here to apologize!"

    Her manner made the guard feel sympathetic.

    Sun Chan soon arrived, wearing a brand new uniform, looking at her indifferently: "What are you here for? Trying to sweet-talk me into being sold to Zhou Jinzhu? Don��t dream; I��m not going. If you don��t leave, you��ll end up losing more."

    "You... this child, what are you saying?" Zhao Xiuxia suppressed her inner anger, slut, my daughter suffered under Zhou Jinzhu, that beast, and is still lying on the bed in pain, yet you dress so well, it��s infuriating!

    Sun Chan deliberately pulled up her sleeves to adjust her hair, "Hurry up with whatever you need to say; I��m busy." She wore a Plum Blossom brand watch, borrowed from Yang Liu. Sun Chan knew Zhao Xiuxia��s character very well, having known her for decades across two lifetimes.

    "Ah, how much is this watch?" Zhao Xiuxia��s eyes lit up the moment she saw the watch.

    "Less than a hundred bucks." Sun Chan pushed her hand away indifferently, "The sry here is high; sometimes we pick mushrooms from the back to sell. Oh, not mushrooms, but monkey head mushrooms."

    Zhao Xiuxia froze, then excitedly grabbed Sun Chan��s arm, "Are you serious? That stuff is valuable; even city folks can��t afford it!" This girl actually has the money to buy such a precious watch! Clearly, she��s gotten rich! Zhao Xiuxia hasn��t eaten monkey head mushrooms even once in her life. No wonder she didn��t run away as she used to; she��s reluctant to leave the good things here, right?

    "Of course." Sun Chan nced at her, "These are cesmon folk can��t ess, so the things inside grow exceptionally well. We take them out, even a kilo of the best can sell for dozens of bucks. They say if it��s the very best, one kilo can fetch over a hundred."

    Zhao Xiuxia started calcting; if I could go in, besides selling Sun Chan, I could make a huge profit!

    Her eyes darted around, then she grabbed Sun Chan, "Can you take me in?"

    Sun Chan shook her head urgently, "No way! We can��t just go in; it��s illegal, and we can only stealthily pick some under cover of night. No way for outsiders like you; I��d get expelled."

    "What are you talking about!" Zhao Xiuxia red, "Your uncle and I aren��t outsiders; picking mushrooms is illegal? Do what you��re told; why are you babbling so much?"

    Sun Chan sneered, "I understand! So you��re not here to apologize, but to take advantage, I knew you weren��t sincere. Keep dreaming; I��m going back!"

    Zhao Xiuxia hurriedly grabbed her, "What are you saying! Of course, I��m here to apologize, your sister knows she��s wrong and is reflecting. You can marry whoever you want in the future; I won��t interfere."

    "Are you serious?"

    "Of course!" Zhao Xiuxia patted her chest, "Do I ever go back on my word? Just take me in and let me pick some monkey head mushrooms, and we��ll call it even."

    Sun Chan saw the greed on Zhao Xiuxia��s face and snickered inside, outwardly nodded, "Fine. I��ll take you to find monkey head mushrooms. After tonight, our mother-daughter rtionship ends. Don��t forget your promise."

    "No problem! I��m straightforward! Let��s set a time; take me in tonight." Zhao Xiuxia casually agreed, and after tonight you��ll be in the mountains, I don��t care what happens to you! She and Sun Chan

    Sun Chan agreed, set to meet at nine in the evening, where she would lead them in to find monkey head mushrooms.

    As Zhao Xiuxia left far away, Yan Kai and Gu Junming stepped out from the shadows. Yan Kai said, "Well done. You have quite a talent for acting."

    Sun Chan smiled, "Don��t make fun of me; I was so nervous my voice was shaking. Almost fainted."

    Gu Junming smiled at her, "You��re very brave. Don��t worry, leave the rest to me."

    Meanwhile, Zhao Xiuxia��s brothers wereining; they had been waiting in the front cornfields for half the day, ready to act, but saw Zhao Xiuxia return alone, wearing a satisfied smile.

    "Didn��t you say you��d lure her to the cornfield? Why did youe back alone? Where is she?" Zhao Biao grabbed a half-cooked corn cob, eating while peeking outside.

    Zhao Xiuxia said excitedly, "That girl has a way to make money! Behind her workce in those mountains at the back, there are monkey head mushrooms. She agreed to take me to fetch a bag tonight, then sell her, and besides, it��s easier to act at night."

 Chapter 66: Out of Luck

    <h4>Chapter 66: Chapter 66: Out of Luck</h4><h4></h4>

    The group of brothers heard about the monkey head mushrooms and got tempted. That��s quite a delicacy! Though a bit disappointed, they thought it wasn��t too much to waste an afternoon and agreed.

    Zhao Xiuxia waited with them in the cornfield all afternoon, eating and trampling, almost destroying the whole cornfield.

    At longst, around midnight, Zhao Xiuxia had her brothers follow from a distance. She went to the sanatorium entrance and, sure enough, saw Sun Chan waiting there. Only the streetlights flickered, the main gate was locked, but a corner of the small gate was open. Seeing Zhao Xiuxia approaching, Sun Chan turned and walked inside, and Zhao Xiuxia quickly followed.

    "You brat... wait for me! Why are you walking so fast?"

    Sun Chan said coldly, "What if we��re discovered if we don��t hurry?"

    Zhao Xiuxia followed Sun Chan into the mountains and woods, where it was uneven everywhere. Zhao Xiuxia fell a few times, while Sun Chan walked ahead without sparing her a nce.

    The forest was wet and slippery; Zhao Xiuxia got herself covered in mud, nearly breaking her leg. Yet that bitch Sun Chan didn��t react at all. Furious, she leaned against a tree, rubbing her ankle, seething with hatred. That little brat is getting worse. Does she think I don��t dare to do anything to her?

    I��ll deal with you when the timees!

    Sun Chan finally stopped in ce. She stood before a big tree and pointed to the bushes inside: "The monkey head mushrooms are on the tree over there. Go pick them, but not too many. Otherwise, the authorities will notice."

    "Let me see?" Zhao Xiuxia walked up to the big tree with her bag. Indeed! Her heart raced suddenly! Pairs of yellow monkey head mushrooms grew all over the ce! How much would these be worth?

    Sun Chan stood aside coldly, "Hurry and pick them. Stop dawdling and leave quickly!"

    As Zhao Xiuxia opened the bag, sheughed, "Sun Chan, thank you. Today��s yourst day as my daughter. Not only did you earn me two thousand bucks, but you also helped me find these many monkey head mushrooms!"

    Sun Chan frowned, "What do you mean?"

    "Don��t you know? I��ve already sold you to Xiong��er Ridge!" Zhao Xiuxiaughed. Behind her, Zhao Biao rushed forward to grab Sun Chan by the neck. He followed, but only he managed to sneak inside; the rest were blocked by the gatekeeper.

    Sun Chan red coldly at Zhao Xiuxia, "You just can��t stand to see me doing well, can you?"

    "Even my own daughter didn��t live well, how can a bastard like you live better? Go serve those brothers in the mountains properly!" Zhao Xiuxia said while pushing Sun Chan.

    Sun Chan staggered a few steps, unable to stand firm, as Zhao Biao came over and dragged her towards the bushes.

    "Let go of me... mmph mmph..." Sun Chan��s voice gradually faded as Zhao Biao covered her mouth.

    Zhao Xiuxiaughed happily, spat gleefully on the ground, "I��ll see how beautiful you are now!"

    In the bushes, Zhao Biao dragged Sun Chan forward, while she kept struggling.

    Zhao Biao kicked her a few times, "Still won��t behave? Just wait till I finish you off!"

    "You abduct me, do you think people outside will let you go?" Sun Chan gritted her teeth.

    "I��m your uncle, taking you out for matchmaking, is that illegal? Come on!" He dragged his unrted niece like a sick stray dog. His face twisted in a grin, resembling his sister Zhao Xiuxia��selfish and malicious.

    Sun Chan��s neck was being choked; she couldn��t breathe at all.

    Yet just as he was stepping out of the forest, a few people blocked his way.

    There were two soldiers, followed by a gun pointing at his face. Zhao Biao saw the dark barrel of the gun, his eyes almost popped out. A handgun, in these parts? Was this a bandit?

    While he stood paralyzed with fear, Gu Junming already grabbed his arm, pulling Sun Chan away. He checked her up and down, concerned.

    "Are you in much pain?"

    Sun Chan shook her head, she had grown ustomed to being beaten. Gu Junming turned and gripped Zhao Biao��s right arm, pulling forcefully.

    Crack! He dislocated her arm entirely, but before Zhao Biao could cry out, Yan Kai covered his mouth from behind.

    Gu Junming kicked his chest, causing Zhao Biao to crash into the tree behind him, his ribs aching, unable to call out as the pain blinded him in bursts: "Don��t kill me, please don��t kill me, I��m just bringing my niece for matchmaking..."

    "I��m not his niece; I don��t know him," Sun Chan said expressionlessly.

    Zhao Biao was desperate, "Sun Chan, do you want to get me killed?"

    Gu Junming expressionless, walked over and shoved a handful of dirt into his mouth, kicking him viciously between his legs,nding another brutal beating. Gu Junming��s face remained nk as he struck harshly. Yan Kai, holding Zhao Biao��s shoulder, was a bit worried: what if he got killed in the process?

    Zhao Biao had never suffered such severe punishment in his life, his whole body convulsing continually.

    "Stop hitting me... Do these soldiers hold a grudge?"

    Casually ncing at the standing Sun Chan filled with hatred, he suddenly realized the brat had found support!

    Gu Junming sneered, "Do you still not know why you��re being beaten?"

    "Trafficking women, attempting murder to silence? Minimum of thirty years, call the police station," Yan Kai said from the side.

    Zhao Biao crawled towards Sun Chan, "Please don��t report me. Sun Chan, tell them, I��m your uncle. Let them release me!"

    Sun Chan coldly smiled, "Would my uncle sell me to Xiong��er Ridge? Don��t deny it. Didn��t the otherse to back you up? They��ll all be caught in one sweep soon!"

    Zhao Biao��s mouth gaped; when did the pushover be like this? If all the brothers from the Zhao Family were locked up, the family reputation would be in ruins, and the younger ones hadn��t even married yet!

    He suddenly grinned, pleading, "I won��t target you anymore; please forgive me and let me go!"

    Sun Chan turned away, ignoring him entirely. Gu Junming hauled him up by the shoulders, giving him a p across the face, nose bleeding from the strike, his cries muffled again by Yan Kai from behind.

    Gu Junming looked at him, saying, "This is to get you acquainted with the situation. You know? People in prison get beaten daily. You��d better start toughening up!"

    "What do you mean... do soldiers get to assault people at will? If I get arrested, don��t think you��ll escape either!" He spoke bravely, though his voice trembled.

    Sun Chan sneered, "Still trying to threaten us? You acted suspiciously in the forest, obviously up to plotting against me. Theserades stepped up to act justly; why shouldn��t they beat you?"

    "I was wrong; I don��t dare anymore..." This time, he was truly scared out of his wits. Crying desperately, knocking his head repeatedly.

 Chapter 67: Caught the Wrong Person?

    <h4>Chapter 67: Chapter 67: Caught the Wrong Person?</h4><h4></h4>

    Seeing that the intimidation had taken effect, Gu Junming finally said, "I��ll give you a chance to forgive you, take Zhao Xiuxia to the vige. Let��s consider this matter settled."

    "Wh... what?" His mouth hung open in shock as he looked at him. "They want a young woman; my sister is too old, they won��t want her..."

    "Who really wants you to sell your sister? We��re not traffickers!" Gu Junming gave him a kick. "It��s just to scare her a bit. After bullying Sun Chan for so many years, are we going to let it slide? Don��t worry, we��ll bring her back afterward. You go out with the people; if your brothers ask, just say it��s Sun Chan delivering someone over, and we��ll be right behind to rescue."

    "But... but my sister..."

    Yan Kai grabbed his cor like a chick, "But what? Do you really want to end up in jail? I��d be happy to help you."

    "No, I��m just tagging along, I��ve really done nothing!" Zhao Biao regretted it deeply; he hadn��t gained a single penny, had been beaten like this, and still had to betray his sister!

    "You have no other choice," Sun Chan spoke softly, yet every word made his heart jump. "You were going to sell me to Xiong��er Ridge; I am the witness. If you don��t agree, I��ll never let you go. Even if my reputation is destroyed, I��ll make sure you go to jail, and all the Zhao Family as well!"

    Gu Junming said indifferently, "You need to have a life to go to jail; hope his body can withstand our beating! If you die, it��ll be seen as an act of heroism on our part."

    Zhao Biao finally broke down, "No, I can��t take the beating, I don��t want to die!"

    "So you need to be sensible. If you deliver her, not only won��t you be to me, but you��ll also have merit." Yan Kai was skilled at ideological work. "Think about how many women at Xiong��er Ridge don��t want to go there? You won��t be short of bonuses either. You��re contributing to the people."

    Zhao Biao said hesitantly, "Are you really just teaching my sister a lesson?"

    Sun Chan didn��t answer, Yan Kai threw him to the ground. "If you understand, go tie up Zhao Xiuxia and throw her into the bag."

    Zhao Biao rolled around on the ground several times, his bones nearly falling apart. He knew if he didn��t agree today, he was dead. Human trafficking is a serious crime!

    After all, Zhao Xiuxia is an old widow, what harm coulde her way? Just deliver her and rescue her right back.

    He hesitated as he looked at Sun Chan, "Niece, she might not be your real mother, but she��s raised you for so many years. You can��t let her down! What if she��s beaten to death..."

    "We��re soldiers; we��re not going to take lives," Yan Kai said.

    Zhao Biao thought about it; the monks might run away, but the temple won��t. Our trafficking is our fault, but if she��s dead, it��s on you!

    He agreed right then, "I��ll go get her now, but you absolutely can��t harm my sister��s life!"

    "Less nonsense," Gu Junming kicked him down the slope. He grunted as he rolled down, fortunately, the terrain was soft, and he quickly got up and went with the bag.

    Zhao Junming said, "Alright, you��re done here; go back and rest."

    "But that��s my foster mother; what if something happens to her?" Although she hated Zhao Xiuxia, Sun Chan didn��t want anything bad happening to her.

    Gu Junming straightened his hat, "Don��t worry. I said nothing will happen, and nothing will. Go back; wait for news tomorrow morning."

    Sun Chan nced at Gu Junming and slightly nodded.

    Yan Kai looked at the two, smiled, and turned to leave.

    Sun Chan took a deep breath, then turned and left; the dormitory was asleep.

    Yang Liu was half-asleep and saw Sun Chan returnte, curiously asked, "Where did you go?"

    "Mm, had some things to do."

    Yang Liu curiously asked, "So mysterious? Is it something good?"

    Sun Chan��s eyes sparkled, dimples appearing on her cheeks, "I��ll tell you tomorrow."

    Yang Liu thought Sun Chan had always been like a littlemb, gentle and kind, but why did her smile earlier seem so evil?

    Sun Chan settled down and went to sleep, but Zhao Xiuxia was unlucky.

    She was picking monkey head mushrooms, calcting how much she could sell them for, when suddenly a hand reached out from behind and squeezed her neck. Zhao Xiuxia eximed, but her opponent didn��t stop, squeezing harder, and soon Zhao Xiuxia lost consciousness. Zhao Biao made sure she didn��t resist, then took out the rope and towel from Zhao Xiuxia and tied her tightly.

    Threw her into the sack.

    "Sis, I��m forced to; don��t me me."

    Yan Kai and Gu Junming stood nearby watching, not offering help; it was a family matter, how could they intervene?

    Even if it came to a confrontationter, it would be Zhao Biao acting alone; no way to pin it on them.

    The guy carried his sister on his shoulder, smiled at the two, "There really is a bonus, right?"

    "You��ll get it, go on. We have men following closely behind," Yan Kai assured.

    Zhao Biao agreed and staggered out; having been beaten, he moved slowly, Yan Kai and Gu Junming followed at a leisurely pace.

    "Sun Chan��s idea is clever; the calction is clear," Yan Kai said.

    Gu Junming frowned slightly, dissatisfied with the summary, "She��s not calcting; she��s resisting."

    Zhao Xiuxia woke halfway through, constantly struggling, crying out, but it was useless; her brother was obsessed with the bonus. He rationalized that apologizing to his sister afterward would be enough.

    Zhao Xiuxia was nearing fifty; did someone really want her as a wife?

    When he reached the gatehouse, he felt nervous, fearing they would stop him; but the guard had been informed, and he passed smoothly, relieved. How could he know it was all prearranged otherwise?

    The other Zhao brothers all came over, seeing him alone, they naturally asked where Zhao Xiuxia was.

    Zhao Biao had thought about it on the way and quickly said, "Sis is picking monkey head mushrooms over there, she asked us to go ahead because she alone isn��t suited for Xiong��er Ridge. Is the vehicle ready?"

    "Got it; we hired a coal truck, it��s right ahead! Let��s hurry up," Zhao Long said.

    The others agreed; knowing Zhao Xiuxia��s personality well��greedy and selfish��they imagined she��d seize any chance to pick mushrooms and wouldn��t know when to stop. They were eager to earn two thousand yuan, so they wouldn��te back for a while.

 Chapter 68: Very Absurd

    <h4>Chapter 68: Chapter 68: Very Absurd</h4><h4></h4>

    They didn��t stop and quickly left, taking advantage of the darkness to get in the car and head straight to Xiong��er Ridge.

    The bag was never opened and was tossed to the very back of the truck bed. At first, Zhao Xiuxia struggled a bit inside, making muffled noises, but was kicked by Zhao Long: "Be quiet, or I��ll throw you down for the wolves right now!"

    Zhao Xiuxia was both anxious and angry, having trouble breathing. On top of being betrayed by her own brother, she fainted directly. Zhao Biao felt embarrassed seeing his sister in the bag, but he had already thought of an excuse: when he caught Sun Chan, she escaped in the darkness, and he grabbed the wrong person.

    Otherwise, he would end up in jail, and he couldn��t have that!

    Xiong��er Ridge was covered in steep peaks. Although the terrain was perilous, there weren��t many nts, making it look barren and terrifying from afar. People inside the mountains struggled to get out, and those outside found it even harder to get in. Because they wanted to buy a bride, those two bachelors were already waiting early at the entrance of the mountain pass.

    The car stopped, and a few brothers from the Zhao Family grabbed the bag with the person in it off the truck. The bag hit the ground, and Zhao Xiuxia moaned in pain, twisting her body continuously. She couldn��t have imagined being sold by her own brothers! It was simply outrageous!

    The two brothers who came to buy her were short and stocky. They walked over without saying a word, grabbed the bag, and opened it to check. Confirming it was indeed a living person.

    Zhao Biao��s heart was on edge, but fortunately, under the moonlight, he saw only ck hair, a small frame, wearing a maroon shirt, with a white neck, definitely a woman.

    Zhao Xiuxia quickly moved her body to struggle, but the two soon tied the bag again and casually tossed it into the cattle wagon behind them. Zhao Xiuxia hit her head on the wooden nk of the vehicle and fainted again.

    Zhao Long, being the oldest, reached out for the money. The two nced at them and handed over an envelope. A thick stack of cash made the brothers�� hearts race; they all huddled to split the money. They had agreed beforehand they wouldn��t help for free��two thousand yuan, Zhao Xiuxia would get eight hundred, and the remaining four brothers would get three hundred each. Zhao Biao took the money and, seeing the opportunity, turned around and left.

    "Where are you going? Not taking the car?"

    Zhao Biao said, "I��m going to town to y mahjong. Is it easy for me to get a bit of money?"

    He thought to himself, if I stay on the truck and those two brothers realize something��s wrong and chase us, I��d be in trouble! He dashed out of the bushes, caught a small truck heading to town, paid ten yuan, hopped on, and left.

    His brothers couldn��t be bothered with him either and drove off.

    The two brothers quickly took the person to the vige. The vigers were already aware of their n, and many bachelors came to watch the spectacle. On such a dark and windy night, having been single for a long time, they inevitably had a restless heart, urging the two brothers to take a look at who they bought.

    "For two thousand yuan, she must be pretty, right? If she��s ugly, we��d be at a loss."

    The elder brother thought about it and threw the bag on the ground: "Let me inspect the goods first!"

    The younger brother also leaned in, everyone saying Sun Chan was a beauty, they had to take a look.

    But when they tore open the bag and removed the gag, a scream came out: "Damn you, Zhao Biao, I��m your sister, and you set me up like this!"

    Why was her voice so coarse! The two leaned in for a look and simultaneously shouted in surprise��who would have thought they��d spent two thousand yuan on a middle-aged woman! Old and ugly, scared into wetting herself, and an unpleasant smell wafted over when they got close.

    Their faces turned ck, and they started cursing together: "Damn it, the Zhao Family dared to deceive us! Chase!"

    One of them gave Zhao Xiuxia a fierce kick, then hastily headed outside. Zhao Xiuxia��s ribs hurt terrible, feeling as if they might break��it was terrifying.

    The entire Xiong��er Ridge stood united, with the young ones rushing out to catch the perpetrators, and the old ones dragging Zhao Xiuxia back towards the vige. Zhao Xiuxia struggled and was dragged along the ground.

    "You��ve got the wrong person. You should have caught my daughter. Let me go!"

    But who listened to her? If they couldn��t bring the person back, she would be the only clue and couldn��t be let loose!

    Zhao Xiuxia cursed furiously: "Let me go, or my brothers back home will deal with you! You bastards, let me go!" She was fierce like a tigress when she bullied Sun Chan at home, but she forget that this was Xiong��er Ridge! These people never saw women as full human beings and could tolerate her behavior. Wasn��t she crazy!

    Several men grabbed Zhao Xiuxia��s hair and beat her up.

    "Shut up, you damned woman! Or we��ll beat you to death!"

    Zhao Xiuxia quieted down, being thrown into the woodshed of those two brothers once they reached the vige. Outside, several wolves barked at her continuously, baring their teeth, drooling��Zhao Xiuxia was utterly terrified.

    "Help, someone save me! Ahh! Damn Sun Chan, I��ll kill you!" But she didn��t consider that if Sun Chan hadn��t known her well, it would��ve been her caught at Xiong��er Ridge tonight. Unfortunately, a woman like her will never introspect; she only harbors hatred towards Sun Chan, believing it��s all her fault!

    Zhao Xiuxia didn��t think Zhao Biao had set her up either, thinking it might��ve been a mistake in the dark. Otherwise, why would her brother deliberately do such a thing?

    The people of Xiong��er Ridge, despite their hasty efforts, couldn��t catch up with the Zhao Family men, who had left by car. But they knew the ce; the monk can run away, but the temple can��t, so they��d pursue them tomorrow!

    They clench their fists as they returned to deal with the old woman!

    These two brothers were known for their fierceness and bravery in the vige, and having taken such a big loss today, how could they swallow their pride!

    Along the way, the vigers mocked the brothers�� foolishness.

    "You guys are impressive, spending two thousand yuan without checking whether it was an olddy or a young girl. My wife only cost fifteen hundred and just turned twenty this year! You brought back an old woman; are you mental? Or do you prefer older women?"

    The crowd burst intoughter.

    Someone said, "Perhaps the woman looks old, but her flesh is tender!"

    A skinny man with a mustacheughed: "Come on, isn��t having a woman good enough? She cost two thousand yuan; you should cherish her��maybe in a few years, you can have a chubby son!"

    These two were even angrier upon hearing this. Were they the type to take anything in their hunger? Is any woman good enough? One that old could bear children? Bah! They cursed and swore the whole way, wishing they could kill those Zhao Family bastards!

 Chapter 69: Deserved

    <h4>Chapter 69: Chapter 69: Deserved</h4><h4></h4>

    So the two returned home and went straight to the woodshed, where Zhao Xiuxia had already been cornered by those big dogs with nowhere to escape.

    Though they couldn��t bite her, their frenzied appearance was truly terrifying. She kept screaming, her whole body trembling. Her legs shook like they had no control, and her pants were soaked with urine several times. Seeing the Liu brothers arrive, they held back the dogs, and Zhao Xiuxia breathed a sigh of relief, crawling and begging them to let her go.

    "Big brothers, it was my brother who made a mistake. It was too dark, tomorrow we will definitely..."

    "Where��s our wife?" p! The eldest pped her, and Zhao Xiuxia fell hard to the ground, her mouth instantly filled with blood.

    She cried out in pain, "I��m really not lying to you! Please let me go!" People from Xiong��er Ridge are truly ruthless! They hit like they��re going to beat someone to death!

    The eldest of the Liu family shouted, "Do you really think we��re easy to fool? Spending two thousand to buy an old woman, you really dared to do that, making us lose facepletely, do you think we��re fools?"

    The two didn��t care about anything and just unleashed their anger with punches and kicks.

    Zhao Xiuxia had never suffered such pain before, crying out for her parents, her pants soaking wet from urine.

    "No, I really want to give you Sun Chan, but how would I know she got caught by mistake? Please let me go, I��ll get Sun Chan over for you..."

    "Shut up! I��m telling you, I don��t want a woman anymore! Return the money immediately!"

    Zhao Xiuxia was already scared to death! Hearing them ask for the money, she hastily agreed.

    "Alright, I��ll return the money, tomorrow I��ll have my brother pay it back, please don��t hit me!" Zhao Xiuxia sobbed, cursing internally countless times. Damn Sun Chan, I��ll endure this time, repay the money, and then sell you to someone else! Next time, two thousand won��t be enough; I��ll sell for three thousand!

    "You��re smart, very obedient, but listen, besides what we gave you before, you mustpensate us half, I want four thousand!" The eldest of the Liu family sneered.

    Zhao Xiuxia was shocked: "What did you say? Obviously, it was two thousand, since when did it be four thousand! You are so unreasonable..."

    The second brother kicked fiercely, hitting Zhao Xiuxia��s stomach, and with a scream, she flew away, her body heavily crashing into the dirt wall behind her, a scattering of dust falling on her head, almost knocking her out.

    The eldest sneered, "You dare say we��re unreasonable? I��m telling you, four thousand means four thousand, if you don��t agree, don��t think about leaving Xiong��er Ridge! We don��t care about you, but there are those sixty-something bachelors here who definitely want a wife!"

    Zhao Xiuxia shivered, is this a ce for people to stay? Beaten and cursed every day, she definitely didn��t want to stay, quickly saying: "I understand. I��ll give you the money! Just let me go!"

    "Write an IOU! I won��t trust the crap from your mouth!"

    The two found a piece of burnt ck wood from the woodshed and tore a piece of white cloth from the window sill, making Zhao Xiuxia write an IOU for four thousand on it. Zhao Xiuxia and the Li brothers didn��t know many words, used circles for the words they couldn��t write, determined they wouldn��t believe her if she dared not acknowledge itter!

    Zhao Xiuxia shakily finished writing: "Can... can I leave now?"

    "Alright, two days for you. We��ll ask for the money the day after tomorrow!"

    The two grabbed Zhao Xiuxia and tossed her out directly. She rolled on the ground several times, didn��t dare curse, struggled to stand up, limped forward.

    The mountain road was rugged, Zhao Xiuxia walked for ten hours until it was midday, finally reaching the roadside, near exhaustion. She gged down a horse-drawn carriage, headed towards the station, covering her face as she sobbed, in pain, tired, hungry, mixed with hatred for Sun Chan, various emotionsbined, those who saw her in such a state thought she was a beggar.

    Zhao Xiuxia now only wanted to go home, nothing else.

    What she didn��t know was, as soon as she left, a group of people began to act, without electricity in the vige, people slept early, countless shlights flickered outside, soon the geese and dogs at home were startled and called, quickly waking everyone in the vige.

    The crowd was astonished, were they being robbed, the men in the household grabbed tools and charged outside.

    For a moment, the whole Xiong��er Ridge was in chaos, the sounds of fighting, curses, women��s screams and children��s cries filled the air. Some even held kitchen knives ready to fight, thinking they were bandits. Onlyter did they learn it was peopleing to rescue the women!

    Yan Kai and Gu Junming cooperated with the city police, already infiltrating the mountain valley, waiting for the right moment. After a whistle sounded, several hundred people simultaneously acted, searching house to house.

    Zhao Xiuxia further didn��t know that when she was forced to write the IOU, Gu Junming was standing right outside the woodshed.

    Yan Kai softly reminded beside him: "Should we go in?"

    "No need." Gu Junming said: "Zhao Xiuxia isn��t one of the trafficked women; their situation is just a debt dispute, doesn��t need our interference."

    Yan Kai raised his brows, said nothing more. Zhao Xiuxia had done something so outrageous to Sun Chan, there had to be some kind of lesson.

    Zhao Xiuxia left, and the operation began, with no intention of dealing with her.

    Yan Kai had everyone in the vige gathered at the grain drying space.

    Though these people were quite fierce, they behaved quietly in front of so many people.

    Of the seventy-six households in the vige, thirty were involved in trafficking, some women had already had children. They dressed poorly, looked haggard, seemingly living bad lives; some were so tormented that they were insane, it was even heard some women who couldn��t live went to die, and were casually buried outside the vige��s hillside.

    Gu Junming frowned: "Absurd! Aren��t you afraid of legal punishment for harming lives!"

    "What are you saying? It��s just a woman, die and find another..." a tall sturdy man stopped speaking, silenced by Gu Junming��s intimidating gaze.

    Yan Kai said: "In the new society, men and women are equal, what you��re doing is illegal. The women here didn��t want to enter; we��re responsible for taking them away."

    Since some women were already in their fifties, some even having grandchildren, those who didn��t wish to return were left.

    The others who cried and begged to leave, Yan Kai had people take those women onto vehicles to leave, while the men fumed furiously, but couldn��t do anything, with so many people watching, they didn��t dare make any moves.

 Chapter 70 Heart-to-Heart

    <h4>Chapter 70: Chapter 70 Heart-to-Heart</h4><h4></h4>

    And the families involved in the buying and selling were taken to another car, handcuffed, and directly taken away.

    As for the instigators, the Liu brothers, Gu Junming did not arrest them, but he knew that these two would not have good days ahead in the vige. After all, it was they who initiated the trouble. If they hadn��t made a big fuss about buying people, these people wouldn��t have been brought here. After this incident, they will surely make enemies with the vigers, let them fight it out amongst themselves.

    Afterpleting this task, Yan Kai made an excuse to leave with a few people. Heading an hour forward from Xiong��er Ridge, the path led to a deste area on the border, taking the opportunity to rescue these women, he was granted a chance to investigate along the borderline. Truly a clever person.

    Knowing what he was going to do, Gu Junming said nothing much, reminding him to be careful.

    Yan Kai patted Gu Junming on the shoulder, got in the car, and left.

    Their action was smooth, but Sun Chan remained anxious, she hardly slept through the night. As soon as dawn broke the next day, she got up. She wanted to wait for news from Gu Junming.

    From afar, she saw a military vehicle approaching, Sun Chan��s heart raced, running to the doorway.

    Gu Junming also jumped out of the vehicle, and the two hurried toward each other, with only arge gate separating them. It was too early, the gatekeeper had not woken up, preventing the gate from being opened.

    "Why are you out so early?"

    "Was Xiong��er Ridge very dangerous?"

    Both spoke simultaneously, and thenughed together through the gate.

    When Gu Junmingughed, his eyes were bright and looked very good, even better than the teachers from the city who taught here in the past. Besides, that teacher was someone whom all the girls in the vigeter fancied.

    Sun Chan said, "How are the Zhao Family people? She won��t... won��t be executed, right?"

    Though she hated Zhao Xiuxia thoroughly, she couldn��t help but feel uneasy thinking about her being sentenced, having been raised by her. She only wanted to be free; if people found out, she would never return to vige life.

    "I let Zhao Xiuxia go. Don��t worry, I��ll make sure she no longer dares to have any ideas about you."

    Sun Chan��s eyes glimmered: "Really?"

    "I came to find you to take you back. I��ll use this incident topletely separate your household registration from Zhao Xiuxia. From now on, you will have an independent registration. Whether it��s marriage or school, it will have nothing to do with them."

    "Thank you, Deputy Battalion Commander!" Sun Chan��s eyes were filled with joy. If that��s the case, she would never have to be involved with Sun Lijuan, Zhao Xiuxia, and others again!

    "Today we leave. I��ll help you with your leave, consider it as cooperating with our operation. How about inviting me for breakfast?" Gu Junming smiled at Sun Chan.

    "Okay! But how do you get in?" She hesitantly looked towards the guardroom, expecting the gatekeeper to be sound asleep.

    At that moment, Gu Junming grabbed the railing with one hand, climbed up a few steps, and then jumped directly over the more than two-meter-high gate.

    Sun Chan was taken aback with wide open mouth, while Gu Junming shushed her: "Let��s go, eat."

    Along the way, Sun Chan felt like she was almost floating, thinking about severing ties with the Sun Family, the sky seemed bluer, and everything turned better. Gu Junming looked at her happily and lightly walking, feeling gratified, this is what a seventeen-year-old girl should be like.

    Eating in the canteen, Gu Junming in his military attire looked impressive, many people nced over, curiosity in their eyes. What��s the rtionship between these two?

    Actually, Sun Chan felt somewhat embarrassed, she couldn��t go around exining he was helping her, so she acted as if she didn��t know.

    Gu Junming said: "Sun Chan, from now on just focus on living well, leave the rest to me. I��ll shelter you through the wind and rain."

    "Huh?" Sun Chan was taken aback, looking up at Gu Junming.

    Gu Junming bowed his head, eating heartily, Sun Chan felt a bit dazed, did she mishear?

    Taking leave was easy, Sun Chan��s workce was very cooperative, it was a major case, even Commander Yan��s son was involved, how could they not support it? Their employee cooperating with the investigation was expected.

    Thus Gu Junming drove, taking Sun Chan back to the vige, this was the first time the two were alone together for such a long time. Sun Chan was a bit nervous, but soon got used to it.

    Gu Junming talked about the matters at Xiong��er Ridge: "Those who beat and caused deaths will be sentenced, while most will be released. Many women will return home, some older women are in despair, and others consider staying in the vige for the sake of their children��s future; it��s all their own choice."

    Listening to him, Sun Chan suddenly thought of her own origin.

    Zhao Xiuxia��s words echoed in her ears: "I see it as a wild child, surely born from some girl pregnant out of wedlock, who can only leave you at the edge of a well, or else an unknown origin couple. Who��ll want you? Your origin is so poor, it��s good that I��m raising you!"

    Sun Chan��s tears suddenly welled up, those abducted women were willing to stay at Xiong��er Ridge for their children, yet her parents abandoned her. Was it really as Zhao Xiuxia said, her origins were indeed rotten?

    Turning the steering wheel, Gu Junming said: "Sun Chan, don��t overthink, that chaotic era saw many tragedies, in fact, I too was an abandoned child."

    "Huh?" She looked up at Gu Junming.

    "I was born during turmoil, my grandfather was implicated, my father was instigated, filed for divorce to abandon my mother, and led the oppression against my grandfather and uncle. She was sent to the countryside, suffered greatly, gave birth to me, but passed not long after. The family of my uncle��s oldrade adopted me; without them, I��d have starved early on."

    "Don��t be sad." Sun Chan bit her lip looking at Gu Junming.

    His expression was calm: "I��m not sad."

    His mother and grandfather were oppressed, yet his father stood on their blood and tears to advance, even married the daughter of the provincial leader. When Gu Junming could return to the city at ten, his previous home was gone. Seeing his splendid stepmother and nearly same-aged half-brother, he left.

    If not for Han Dong��s parents forcibly keeping him until he joined the military in his teens, Gu Junming would likely have ended up a farmer in the vige.

    Gu Zishan exined countless times, they considered the broader situation then, only those actions could save the Gu Family, he secretly protected the safety of his grandfather and several uncles. But regardless of how nicely said, his mother and grandfather had died, uncles severed ties with the Gu Family, himself, married and with children, the traces his mother left at home were nearly gone.

 Chapter 71 Confession

    <h4>Chapter 71: Chapter 71 Confession</h4><h4></h4>

    "I am like you, lonely and helpless,ughed at by others, but never gave up. Sun Chan, you must also be strong and look ahead. Your parents must love you as much as my mother loves me; they just can��t protect you. You have to live well to reassure them."

    Sun Chan nodded, tears silently falling down. This was a knot in her heart for two lifetimes, which only Gu Junming could see.

    Watching Sun Chan with her face like a pear blossom in the rain, Gu Junming felt a slight tremor in his heart and wanted to wipe away her tears. But he worried about startling her and could onlyfort her gently.

    "Don��t cry, I won��t talk about this anymore..."

    Sun Chan wiped her eyes and smiled apologetically, "Thank you, Deputy Battalion Commander. From now on, I won��t think about my past anymore."

    "That��s good." Gu Junming coughed a few times, "People must look forward."

    "And what about those who raised you? How are they?" Sun Chan couldn��t help but ask.

    Gu Junming said, "They live in the vige next to yours, Xiangyang Vige. Both of them are quite old. My father is in poor health and can��t do much of the farm work. After helping you with your matter, I��ll also visit them and help with the autumn harvest at home. Oh, I have an elder sister whose husband used to hit her. I insisted on their divorce, and now she lives with our family and takes care of her children. My nephew studies quite well. As long as he wants, I��ll support his education."

    Sun Chan nodded. She already knew this from when Gu Junming was seeing Wang Dan. But suddenly she wondered why Gu Junming was detailing these matters, feeling a bit embarrassed.

    "I want to provide for them in their old age. In my eyes, they are my true parents. You... you won��t disdain my family situation, will you?" After saying this, Gu Junming��s face turned red, but fortunately, his skin was dark, so it wasn��t too noticeable.

    Sun Chan��s ears turned red; the implication was too clear.

    But does he only want to date her? He has never said such things before. The progress seemed too fast. Could it be her misunderstanding? Her mind was in chaos, and she couldn��t look at his face.

    "Sun Chan, would you be willing to try being with me?" He finally asked, appearing calm on the surface, and focusing on driving, but his palms were sweating. "Only if you marry me will they stop trying to harm you. What if you encounter a scoundrel? So, I will protect you. I will treat you well for a lifetime."

    "But we..."

    "Yes, we haven��t met many times. But with our simr backgrounds, we��ll havemon topics. I��m willing to wait until you��re twenty. During this period, whether you want to work or study, I support you. I like you." Hisst sentence was barely audible. Gu Junming had never confessed before; this was his limit.

    Moreover, hisrades generally only saw their wives a few times before marriage. For some, the marriage was arranged by their parents, and meeting meant the wedding night. At least we��vemunicated several times, so it��s not very abrupt, right?

    Sun Chan was deeply moved. Gu Junming was truly a good person.

    How could a man in the vige agree to let his wife continue studying?

    Getting married meant endlessbor, farm work, household chores, serving inws, quarreling with sisters-inw and little sisters over trivial matters. She had to have children, and they had to be sons. She didn��t want to live through her past life��s days again.

    Most importantly, the person in front of her was someone she liked too, and that was enough.

    "Deputy Battalion Commander, do your colleagues all pair with people with better conditions? Will I hold you back?" For instance, Bai Fann, in every aspect was superior to her, and she feared being just an orphan might hinder Gu Junming��s future.

    Gu Junmingughed, "Who said that? The officers from the city mostly pair with working-ss families, and many battalionmanders andpanymanders from the countryside marry hometown wives. It��s not as exaggerated as you think. I��m just an ordinary person; I can only rely on myself."

    Sun Chan nodded, neither of them spoke further, quietly watching the road ahead together.

    Gu Junming didn��t need to ask if Sun Chan agreed; it wasn��t necessary anymore. His hand was already holding hers, and Sun Chan��s face was as radiant as a peach blossom. She dared not look at him yet didn��t struggle.

    Gu Junming knew it was settled, and heughed heartily, very pleased. Sun Chan couldn��t resist hitting Gu Junming��s shoulder.

    "What are youughing at! Focus on driving."

    Gu Junming chuckled, "Yes, you��re perfect this way. Live happily and always keep smiling."

    Sun Chan was silent for a while, then nodded earnestly, "Hmm, I promise you, I will happily live from now on."

    In her past life, being able to eat enough, suffer fewer beatings, or nap for a moment while working was satisfying enough, but now she realized Gu Junming was right.

    She not only had to live but live well; she owed nothing to Zhao Xiuxia or anyone else.

    By the time the car reached the town, it was nearly noon. Gu Junming parked at the local barracks, deciding to take Sun Chan back to the vige.

    He said to Sun Chan, "Let��s eat first; there��s a tough battle this afternoon."

    "Hmm." Sun Chan thought of Zhao Xiuxia and her brothers and Sun Lijuan, her expression turning slightly serious.

    Gu Junming took Sun Chan to the restaurant where they ate the first time. As he opened the door, Gu Junming quickly held her hand, feeling its warmth, which made his heart itch. But upon entering, he released it again.

    He was in uniform, after all, so needed to keep up appearances.

    "Do you still want the same thing asst time?"

    "I want wontons; I haven��t tried them yet." Sun Chan smiled at Gu Junming. In her past life, she heard vige girls talk about how delicious wontons in the city were: chicken soup, seaweed, and poached eggs, better than dumplings. This was what she thought the most about when she went to bed hungry each night.

    Gu Junming smiled and nodded, though his heart felt sour because she couldn��t experience even such simple cuisine! He decided he wouldn��t let her endure another day of hardship.

    They ordered two bowls of wontons, and Gu Junming said, "After we finish things, we��ll go straight to my home; we probably won��t have time to eat, so let��s buy some things to get by."

    Sun Chan nodded, "Okay."

    So they bought some biscuits and a bag of tea eggs. Sun Chan felt a bit dazed; were they really heading to his home so soon? Yet she felt secure, following someone so steadfastly. That feeling was quite nice.

    Both were skilled in farming, and they discussed how to handle the autumn harvest.

    The server brought over two bowls of wontons, cing them before the couple.

 Chapter 72: Tit for Tat

    <h4>Chapter 72: Chapter 72: Tit for Tat</h4><h4></h4>

    It��s already autumn now. Bai Fann is wearing a long white coat with ck pants and brown leather shoes, her long hair draped over her shoulders, and a white scarf around her neck, dressing with a lot of poise. A tall soldier stands beside her, evidently her partner.

    Bai Fann sees Sun Chan and Gu Junming sitting together, and a sudden burst of anger erupts from her chest.

    The man next to her says, "You look unwell, what��s wrong?"

    Bai Fann shakes her head, forcing a smile, "It��s nothing."

    Since thest gathering, after not seeing him there, shepletely gave up on Gu Junming, and all her love turned to ashes, leaving only hatred. Initially, Bai Chuan wanted to introduce Yan Kai to her, but after calling Mr. Yan several times and subtly mentioning it, Mr. Yan rejected it.

    Bai Chuan realized that Mr. Yan was dissatisfied with Bai Fann, anger filling his heart, but there was nothing he could do.

    He then arranged for Bai Fann to go on a blind date with Wang Hu, the son of the battalion��s staff officer, Wang.

    Wang Hu has been in the army for many years, thirty-one years old, and already at deputy regiment level because he was busy with work and never considered marriage, his family elders were very anxious, urging him constantly.

    Wang Hu met Bai Fann, felt they were quitepatible, and they started seeing each other.

    Bai Fann restrained much of her character. Their rtionship was pretty good, and both families were pleased with this oue, but Bai Fann��s heart was agitated.

    Wang Wu��s attitude towards marriage was more like that of the older generation, where feelings weren��t important; marrying was for having children and living life. So his dating felt more like carrying out a duty.

    Bai Fann was ipatible with him, but considering his status and family background were stronger than Gu Junming��s, she could only force herself to maintain the rtionship.

    They originally nned to dine at a better restaurant, but passing by this small shop, Bai Fann suddenly remembered meeting Gu Junming herest time and suggested dining here.

    Unexpectedly, upon entering, she saw Gu Junming and Sun Chan together, their attitude so intimate.

    Bai Fann��s heart suddenly ached, almost suffocating her. Indeed, she lost to Sun Chan!

    Sun Chan saw Bai Fann and remembered Zhao Xiuxia bringing people to cause trouble for her, nearly selling her to Xiong��er Ridge, and her face turned cold.

    Gu Junming stood up at this moment to greet them.

    Bai Fann smiled as she introduced, "This is my partner, Wang Hu, just a grandson of a friend of my grandfather��s, this one is..."

    Gu Junming smiled and said, "This is my partner, Sun Chan."

    Sun Chan��s face heated up, Gu Junming naturally understood her panic and shyness, tightly holding her hand, Sun Chan struggled, but he had no intention of letting go.

    Wang Hu greeted Sun Chan politely, his attitude very gentle. Since the restaurant was crowded, the waiter arranged for them to sit together.

    Bai Fann��s heart was filled with mixed emotions, wondering why someone as smart as Gu Junming could be tricked by her, how foolish! She suddenly thought if Gu Junming had been distant because he had already been seduced by Sun Chan, having to keep a distance from herself?

    Thinking this, Bai Fann felt somewhat relieved. This scheming girl, shameless!

    Bai Fann was determined to embarrass Sun Chan, so she smiled at Sun Chan, "You two haven��t known each other for long; when did you start together? I didn��t expect it to be so quick. Could it be...there��s something I don��t know about? Sun Chan, you are truly bold, even more fashionable than us city girls."

    Gu Junming frowned, saying nothing, while Wang Hu earnestly ordered dishes, not noticing what she was saying.

    Sun Chan calmly responded, "Why do your words sound strange to me? ording to you, it��s like I used some kind of plot."

    Bai Fannughed, "See, I didn��t say anything, why are you so angry?"

    "If others hear it, they might get angry too, because listening to Doctor Bai��s words suggests I did some shameful things, forcing Gu Junming to be with me? Is this what you mean?" Sun Chan harbored considerable hatred towards Bai Fann. If it weren��t for Wang Hu��s presence here, she would have wanted to p her, and naturally wouldn��t hold back.

    Wang Hu had just finished ordering and noticed Sun Chan��s angry expression. This delicate-looking girl speaks so sharply, is there some prior conflict?

    He looked at Bai Fann and gently asked, "You originally knew each other?"

    Bai Fann pressed her lips and said with a smile, "Yes, Sun Chan is a nurse at our hospital, not very educated, but she does well. Unfortunately, her mother and sister came causing trouble, saying they wanted her back in the vige to marry, but Sun Chan refused, so she went outside to work. Turns out she found Gu Junming. This time, your partner is much better than the vige farmer. Your mother will certainly be happy and won��t make trouble again."

    Sun Chan��s heart burned with anger, Bai Fann��s mouth is so vicious! Indirectly pointing out that Sun Chan is a woman who worships materialism, abandoning her originally arranged marriage upon finding better conditions.

    Sure enough, hearing Bai Fann��s words, Wang Hu nced at Sun Chan with doubt.

    Gu Junming still said nothing, tightening his grip on Sun Chan��s hand.

    He didn��t want to quarrel with women; more importantly, he knew when he and Sun Chan marry, they would face rumors and many might attack her background and identity. He hoped Sun Chan could let go of these constraints in her heart.

    Sun Chan smiled at Bai Fann, "I think Doctor Bai misunderstood; that person wasn��t my partner. My adoptive mother and sister wanted to sell me to azy man in the vige for five hundred yuan. I wasn��t willing, so they brought him home to humiliate me, trying to forcefully resolve things. I had no choice but to escape from home. This wasn��t a good marriage; otherwise, I wouldn��t have kept fleeing. You can ask Deputy Battalion Commander Gu, as he was the one who encountered me when I escaped."

    "I see... I wasn��t aware of this..." Bai Fann bit her lip and said with a smile, "Consider it my misunderstanding of you." She didn��t expect Sun Chan to directly spill all the family ugliness, leaving her with nothing to say.

    Sun Chan smiled, "I��m rather curious; Doctor Bai has always taken an interest in my affairs, even informing my adoptive mother when I was hiding in X City, urging them to catch me back. Why is it that you weren��t aware of this matter then?"

    "I didn��t!" Bai Fann subconsciously raised her voice. What��s this woman trying to do, trap her? What would Wang Hu think?

    Turning around, Wang Hu was also looking at her in confusion, Bai Fann forced a smile, "It��s all a misunderstanding, not like that."

 Chapter 73 Comparison

    <h4>Chapter 73: Chapter 73 Comparison</h4><h4></h4>

    Gu Junming said, "Yes, Bai Fann might have been deceived by your foster mother, and did something wrong with good intentions. Don��t me her."

    Sun Chan nodded, "I know, Doctor Bai is very well-mannered and would never do such a thing." She turned towards Bai Fann��s direction, smiling, "My foster mother and sister came to X City and made a scene, even brought my uncles, trying to sell me to Xiong��er Ridge. Fortunately, Gu Junming and Vice Commander Yan helped me, and I survived. Only then did I realize that a woman really needs someone to rely on, that��s why I��m with Gu Junming now. You could say you��re our matchmaker, thank you so much."

    Sun Chan finished speaking and lowered her head shyly, as if facing her matchmaker.

    Regarding Bai Fann and Gu Junming��s rtionship, although Gu Junming didn��t say it outright, Sun Chan understood that Bai Fann liked Gu Junming, so she used this to attack her.

    Bai Fann��s face was pale. This woman hadn��t been seen for days, yet had be so bold as to attack me? Just someone who came out of the vige, and she managed to figure out that I was the one informing! Using it to attack my character!

    "Sun Chan, what you said is really too much!" Bai Fann looked aggrieved, "Just because we had a little conflict at work, you frame me? Which eye of yours saw me telling your mother and sister about this?"

    Anyway, she had Li Zhaodi spread the news, it had nothing to do with her, denying it was all that was needed, what else could be done!

    "I didn��t say anything, did I? I��m just thanking you for being the matchmaker between me and Gu Junming."

    "That��s not what you think, you just think I��m a bad woman, almost got you sold, you despicable little person!"

    Sun Chan nced at her, ignored her, and continued eating wontons. As if she hadn��t heard a thing. Bai Fann was furious, wanting to continue arguing with Sun Chan, but Wang Hu stopped her.

    "It��s all a misunderstanding, no need to argue over such trivial matters."

    "But Sun Chan misunderstood, I need to make it clear. She��s not the only one who knows in X City..."

    "Sun Chan didn��t say anything," Gu Junming said, "We all believe you were deceived by that mother and daughter. Doctor Bai, there��s no need to say more, just eat well."

    Gu Junming clearly understood that it was Bai Fann who brought Zhao Xiuxia and others over, but she hadn��t considered the potential danger Sun Chan might face. His face no longer showed any smile, and his tone was particrly cold.

    How malicious must a woman be to do such a thing, ruining someone��s life out of jealousy!

    "Forget it, forget it, it��s not even a big deal. They aren��t even angry." Wang Hu didn��t think much, and just as the ordered dishes arrived, he invited Bai Fann to eat.

    Gu Junming and Sun Chan hadn��t ordered dishes, so Wang Hu invited them to eat together, but neither of them picked up a chopstick, only eating wontons.

    Bai Fann was full of anger but didn��t want to leave a bad impression on Wang Hu, so she had to endure for now.

    Sun Chan noticed a detail: while eating, Wang Hu only cared about himself and hadn��t asked Bai Fann what she liked when ordering dishes. Initially, she thought they got along well and didn��t need to ask, but Sun Chan noticed that Bai Fann didn��t even look at two of the dishes, only ate the scrambled eggs beside them.

    Sun Chan quietly asked Gu Junming, "Does Bai Fann not like eating celery?"

    "Yes, she never eats it, and she doesn��t like lotus root slices either. My stepmother knows, so whenever she visits, she��ll remind the aunt." Gu Junming thoughtfully poured her a bit of chili oil, "You like spicy food, right?"

    "Yes." Sun Chan nodded. When working in the fields, sometimes a chili and a corn cake make a meal. Chili is a delicacy for her.

    "My parents also like spicy food. When we eat together, it saves making separate dishes. Truly, if you��re not family, you don��t enter the same door." Gu Junming said with augh.

    Sun Chan shyly nudged his leg under the table.

    These two were quite happy, but Bai Fann was not so pleased.

    Bai Fann knew well Wang Hu��sck of consideration, but usually didn��t mind since she didn��t really like Wang Hu.

    But Gu Junming��s consideration for Sun Chan hurt her heart. She always thought Gu Junming wasn��t expressive or didn��t know how to show emotion, yet he showed such warmth, just not towards herself.

    Sun Chan and Gu Junming finished their wontons and bid farewell.

    Bai Fann forced a smile, "Congrattions to you both. When will we get to taste the wedding candy? Grandpa Gu will certainly be very happy if he knows."

    Gu Junming understood what Bai Fann meant in her words.

    Gu Zishan always hoped he would be with a woman who had a background. He wouldn��t agree to him marrying a vige girl without support or even much literacy.

    Gu Junming said, "My marriage cannot be dictated by them. Whoever raised me has the right toment on my marriage. You continue eating, my partner and I are leaving."

    Gu Junming pulled Sun Chan and headed outside. At the doorway, he turned to Bai Fann and said, "I hope to tell them myself about this, to give them a surprise. If you say anything first, I��ll be disappointed. Only you two know about Sun Chan and me, if it gets out, it can only be you who said it."

    Bai Fann nearly bit her lip till it bled, yet felt no pain. He doesn��t trust me, doesn��t trust me!

    Sun Chan said, "Doctor Bai isn��t someone who meddles, she should have learned from the incident with my foster mother. Don��t worry."

    Bai Fann was fuming, forcing a smile, "Don��t worry, I won��t say anything. It��s good news, you should tell them soon."

    "You��re right, I��m about to take her back to the vige to discuss the engagement. Goodbye." Gu Junming said and took Sun Chan away.

    Bai Fann leaned back on the chair, her chopsticks nearly being squeezed to the point of breaking. If Wang Hu hadn��t been there, she might have lost it.

    Wang Hu didn��t notice she hadn��t eaten all along, focusing on his own meal, then stood up saying, "Let��s go back, I need to return to the camp today."

    "Okay." Bai Fann put down her chopsticks and walked out with him.

    Wang Hu��s car was parked by the roadside. He got in by himself, and Bai Fann, holding back her anger, got in from the other side.

    Along the way, neither said much. Wang Hu��s mind was upied with Yan Kai and Gu Junming��s visit to Xiong��er Ridge. It was indeed a great opportunity, and he was actually waiting for an opportunity to enter Xiong��er Ridge. Who knew they would quietly snatch the credit before he even thought of a good n. His mind was a bit chaotic.

 Chapter 74 Returning to the Village

    <h4>Chapter 74: Chapter 74 Returning to the Vige</h4><h4></h4>

    Bai Fann was filled with depression and couldn��t dispel it. After saying a few words to Wang Hu, she found him absent-minded and not responding to her at all. She decided not to say anything more. Wang Hu took Bai Fann to the hospital entrance and was about to leave.

    Before getting into the car, he suddenly said, "Let��s get married by the end of the year. It��s just when we��re not too busy, and my father will be back from the grassroots. We can just get it done, otherwise, we��d have to take leave then."

    "So soon, there��s less than two months left."

    "It��s not soon. My mom will prepare the things needed for the wedding, you just need to file the report and take leave for that time."

    Bai Fann suddenly felt a wave of irritability. Am I really handing over my entire life just like this?

    But recalling her grandfather��s words, he very much hoped for them to get married soon. Seeing the New Year approaching when she would turn twenty-six, finding someone with such good conditions wasn��t easy, so she could only nod and smile.

    "Then I��m leaving." Wang Hu got in the car and drove off.

    It happened to be shift change time, and many colleagues saw her alighting from a military vehicle, with that person��s rank higher than Gu Junming before, all envying her greatly, eyes shining brightly.

    Bai Fann returned to the unit, naturally being pulled aside by people to chat, with faces full of envy.

    "Your boyfriend��s conditions are really good! And he��s handsome too!"

    "Isn��t that so? Instructor Wang is quite the handsome man, many women must be dying of envy!"

    Bai Fann smiled, not saying much. She also felt quite proud; marrying into such a family is something many people can only dream of. Plus, his position has more room for development than Deputy Battalion Commander Gu Junming. Who knows when he might get promoted!

    A wave of pride surged in Bai Fann��s heart, and the depression in her heart diminished significantly. Someday, I��ll put you all beneath my feet!

    On Gu Junming��s side, he had brought Sun Chan and found someone with a tricycle hauling bricks, gave him a yuan asking to help send the two back to the vige. Gu Junming jumped on first, held Sun Chan��s hand, and the two sat on the tall stack of bricks, bumping along toward the vige.

    Throughout the journey, Sun Chan was very nervous. Gu Junmingforted her, "Don��t worry, no matter what, I��m by your side."

    Sun Chan nodded. Looking at the familiar fields,rge paddies, and the people working within them, she felt an indescribable emotion, neither pure joy nor sadness. She only hoped to leave here smoothly this time, andpletely sever ties with Zhao Xiuxia��s family, not needing to worry about being sold by them.

    But why would Zhao Xiuxia willingly give up on this money-making opportunity?

    She asked Gu Junming how to deal with it: "Zhao Xiuxia hasn��t sold me; she must be gnashing her teeth in hatred, won��t easily return my household registration."

    Gu Junmingughed and said, "Leave the rest to me. Later, just make it clear you want to leave the home."

    Sun Chan had a stomach full of questions, but seeing Gu Junming��s calm demeanor, she felt at ease. In her two lifetimes, she��s relied on herself, very tired. But in this life, she finally has someone to rely on; now she feels very secure.

    The journey was very bumpy. Gu Junming had her lean closely against him. Though neither spoke, the atmosphere was very warm.

    At this time, Zhao Xiuxia was sitting at home wailing uncontrobly. These past two days have been anything but peaceful.

    Not long after returning to the vige, the homes of several of her brothers were smashed to ruins by a few men. Besides Zhao Biao who escaped, all the other men were beaten so badly they couldn��t get up from the kang. Naturally, the ones who acted were the two brothers from Xiong��er Ridge.

    The two brothers were taken to the station, given a talking-to, then released, only to return to Xiong��er Ridge and face disdain from everyone.

    All the wives of the vigers, except for some old and ugly ones or those reluctant to leave their kids, practically all left. The vigers med everything on them, and the two were immediately enraged.

    Fine, you got the money and gave us an old hag to fool us, but that��s nothingpared to taking people and snatching away the vige women, leaving us to face scorn! In a fit of anger, they brought people to the vige and looted the homes of Zhao Xiuxia��s brothers. The money they��d just received was all snatched back.

    These brothers were incapacitated, and their wives angrily ran to Zhao Xiuxia and scolded her, "We helped with good intentions! But what did you do? Our men were beaten that badly, you need topensate us!"

    "Yes, I will, I will, but Sun Chan isn��t here now..." She��s still dreaming of selling off Sun Chan.

    Those women got impatient: "You want to sell? Ask around the nearby viges if anyone dares buy now? It��s your own mess, we��re considering our familial ties not asking for much, a hundred each family, you��re married, have no kids, and in the future, don��t call us for anything, our men won��t have time!"

    "That��s right, you a widow, visiting us for weddings and funerals isn��t auspicious! Avoid it if you can from now on!"

    Zhao Xiuxia felt stifled inside; she��d often support her maiden family! Nevercked gifts for any family matter, most of the money from selling Sun Chan had been divided among them, and now just over this incident, they all turn against her, where were their words when they profited?

    But she didn��t dare voice her dissatisfaction, else her maiden family wouldn��t help in the future. Life for her and her daughter in the vige wouldn��t be good.

    After making Zhao Xiuxia write an IOU, the women angrily walked off, taking an old sow along, iming to help their men recuperate. After being beaten so badly, of course, they needed to recover.

    Zhao Xiuxia didn��t dare stop them, smiled and sent them out, then cried upon re-entering.

    "What sin have Imitted? It was a good deal, why did it end up like this?"

    In the kangy Sun Lijuan, slowly sitting up, looking pale, her hair disheveled, eyes surrounded by dark circles.

    Since being bullied by Zhou Jinzhu, upon returning home, she fell gravely ill, continually bleeding, too scared to go to the hospital or report it, only daring to ask the vige doctor for some pain relief medicine.

    She took leave from school, not daring to go outside.

    Only just getting slightly better, people from her uncle��s family came, scolded them, took plenty before leaving, Sun Lijuan couldn��t get up, couldn��t stop them, so she simply pretended to faint.

    Seeing her mother constantly crying, she felt terribly upset.

    Other kids have everything arranged by their parents, like this vocational school she��s in, most students from the city, already have post-graduation ns, only she��s left hanging, with such issues developed, how could she not be upset.

 Chapter 75: My Partner

    <h4>Chapter 75: Chapter 75: My Partner</h4><h4></h4>

    If you don��t hurry to find someone to marry, you��ll have to return to the vige and at most be a clerk for the vigemittee.

    With such a low sry, at best you��ll have to find a farmer, Sun Lijuan can��t even dare to imagine staying in the vige, working in the fields every day, doingundry, cooking, taking care of her parents-inw...

    Sun Lijuan shivered all over; she definitely doesn��t want to do farm work, nor find a pauper and suffer for a lifetime! How would that be different from Sun Chan? Now that such a thing has happened, she��s starting to get a bit anxious too.

    If it weren��t for her mother��s ipetence, how would she be so unlucky! And that detestable Sun Chan!

    Ever since she knocked herself out at midnight and ran away, she��s no longer that meek pushover she used to be, even daring to hit people! How did she be like that?

    Zhao Xiuxia held her daughter and cried over her ill fate, Sun Lijuan couldn��t even be bothered to speak to her.

    "That damned Sun Chan, I must make her suffer!"

    Sun Lijuan frowned, "Let��s take this slowly. Don��t cause trouble for Sun Chan yet."

    Zhao Xiuxia is foolish, but Sun Lijuan isn��t. That night, it was obvious that Sun Chan had colluded with her uncle to send her mother to Xiong��er Ridge. She might have already found herself a strong backer, and not just any backer, otherwise, she wouldn��t be this brazen. If we confront her now, we might suffer more.

    Zhao Xiuxia smacked her daughter, "Do you me me too?"

    "Mom, I��m just saying! You could have just bagged her and sold her right away, but no, you had to look for some monkey head fungus. Not only did we not get any money, but it also turned into such a big mess, and we even ended up in debt."

    "I was just..." Zhao Xiuxia was at a loss for words.

    Not knowing what to do, the front door suddenly opened, and Sun Chan walked in with big strides.

    The two of them clearly saw it through the window, their mouths agape, then they shouted in unison.

    "You wretched girl, you still dare toe back!" Zhao Xiuxia began to look around for something, first grabbing a broom, but Sun Lijuan pulled her and switched it with a feather duster, "Use this!"

    "Yes, this one hurts more, I��ll beat her to death!" Zhao Xiuxia charged out with a mix of new and old grievances.

    Through the ss, seeing Sun Chan dressed in clean clothes and looking much better, Sun Lijuan��s eyes med with anger!

    How dare you live better than me when you were supposed to be beneath my feet!

    Zhao Xiuxia lunged forward, wielding the feather duster, "You wicked girl, you betray your family and your sister��s! Watch me beat you to death!"

    Just as the feather duster was about to smash down, a hand reached out and grabbed it firmly, and with a strong yank, Zhao Xiuxia felt like her arm was going to break. She had to let go, just to watch the feather duster fly away.

    Beside Sun Chan stood a man in military uniform, looking very imposing and stern. His eyes seemed to pierce through anyone he looked at.

    Zhao Xiuxia yelped in fear, taking a few steps back before pretending to be calm, "Who are you? What do you want?"

    "I��m Sun Chan��s partner. I came back with her," Gu Junming��s voice was low and deep.

    "Partner...?" Zhao Xiuxia shrieked, "Who does she have as a partner? She��s my daughter, I decide who she marries, I won��t agree, so you better leave and stay out of our family affairs!" She attempted to strike again, but Gu Junming held her shoulder down.

    "Calm down, throwing a fit won��t solve anything."

    "I��m telling you... Ow!" Zhao Xiuxia couldn��t finish her sentence as Gu Junming��s grip made her whole body go limp, unable to even stand straight.

    Sun Lijuan, already feeling unwell, was furious upon hearing that Sun Chan had found a partner, and he was a soldier, seemingly with a high position. She was so angry she almost fainted.

    She stormed out of the room furiously, ignoring her own difort, and coldly sneered at Sun Chan, "Mom, Sun Chan is back, now it��s easier to handle. You should go to Xiong��er Ridge and have them take her back!" Marrying a soldier? In her dreams!

    "Yes, I��ll go right now," Zhao Xiuxia thought, not knowing if sending her over now would appease the two brothers�� anger, but she couldn��t muster the four thousand needed and hoped Sun Chan could cover the debt.

    As for how Sun Chan would live in the future, she couldn��t care less.

    Zhao Xiuxia hurried to leave, but the door was blocked by Gu Junming, "Auntie, the two brothers from Xiong��er Ridge are still detained."

    Zhao Xiuxia sneered, "You��re lying! They obviously came back, don��t try to fool me!" They were smashing and looting at her brother��s ce just the day before yesterday!

    Gu Junming said, "They weren��t detained for human trafficking; they were detained for smashing and looting at the vigers�� ce, intentionally injuring people, so they��re detained and can��te out for half a month."

    "Really? Do you really know this?"

    Gu Junming nodded, "Yes. We��ve been keeping an eye on those two��s movements."

    "Then shouldn��t they owepensation?" Zhao Xiuxia asked urgently, as her brother��s family still owed a hundred.

    Gu Junming said, "Since I had them arrested, naturally, letting them go is also my call."

    "You had them arrested? Who exactly are you?" Zhao Xiuxia didn��t recognize military ranks. But he seemed to have some power.

    "I��m Sun Chan��s partner, as I said." Gu Junming smiled politely at her.

    Though his voice was calm and his smile fitting, Zhao Xiuxia couldn��t help but feel frightened; what exactly is this man?

    From being bagged and sent to Xiong��er Ridge, beaten up, owing a debt of four thousand, her brothers being beaten, those two brothers detained, this chain of events��could they all be rted to him?

    "Was it you who sent us to Xiong��er Ridge? You bastard, I raised you, and you dare harm me?" She jumped three feet high, pointing and cursing at Sun Chan.

    Sun Chan sneered, "You��re quite imaginative, when did we send you there? It��s your own doing."

    Sun Lijuan red intently at Sun Chan, "You deliberately harmed Mom, don��t you believe it? No matter how much resentment you hold, Mom raised you. How can you be so heartless? Just because you found a good match, you think you can do this?"

    Hearing Sun Lijuan��s words, Zhao Xiuxia realized that it might indeed be the case; her own partner was teaching her a lesson. She rushed up to pull Sun Chan��s hair, "You bitch, harming your own mother to death! I raised you from the dirt and grime, and this is how you repay me! I��ll beat you to death!"

    She��d always been like that, always handling Sun Chan however she wished for seventeen years.

    But this time, Sun Chan didn��t stand there waiting to be beaten, she grabbed Zhao Xiuxia��s wrist and gave a hard push, Zhao Xiuxia, unprepared, stumbled back and fell to the ground. Zhao Xiuxia, beaten so badly a few days ago that all her bones felt broken, let out a miserable scream as she fell.

 Chapter 76: I Want to Change My Household Registration

    <h4>Chapter 76: Chapter 76: I Want to Change My Household Registration</h4><h4></h4>

    "You��re my daughter, and you dare to hit your mother? I raised you!" Zhao Xiuxia gritted her teeth. This little brat shouldn��t have been cared for!

    "I��ve said it, you��re no longer my mother." Sun Chan said calmly.

    The vigers soon gathered around. Zhao Xiuxia��s house had been causing uproars for the past few days, so her family��s affairs couldn��t be hidden. She wanted to sell Sun Chan but ended up getting beaten; everyone who saw it muttered, "Serves her right!"

    Sun Chan said, "In front of all the vigers, I��ll make clear what I said at the hospital that day. I will no longer recognize you as my mother. From now on, Sun Family��s affairs have nothing to do with me."

    "You��re dreaming! I raised you, you can��t..."

    Sun Chan interrupted her, "You raised me, no matter what the purpose was, I called you mother, and I wouldn��t fight with my sister over good things. You denied me education, fed me with gruel and vegetables, made me do farm work from a young age, beat me or scolded me whenever you felt like it, I��ve endured all that. But you went too far by trying to sell me to Zhou Jinzhu, and then to Xiong��er Ridge, I absolutely cannot bear it! You tried to sell me, and I didn��t report you to put you in jail, that��s already more than gracious. If you want someone to be filial to you, you should at least act human!"

    Zhao Xiuxia was so angry she started shouting and wanted to hit people, but she was stopped by Gu Junming. Although he lightly held her arm, Zhao Xiuxia was unable to get close to her.

    Sun Lijuan also wanted toe over and hit someone, but with a slight movement, she felt a rush of heat below. She didn��t dare to approach, only standing there, seething with anger.

    Seeing Sun Chan��s partner being handsome and dashing, but she herself was ravaged by Zhou Jinzhu, that beast, in the cornfield, her face turned greenish with hatred. Yet she dared not move recklessly, fearing the vigers would find out. Her heart was urgent and furious!

    Sun Chan said, "I want to transfer my household registration out now. We won��t have any rtions from here on."

    "You��re really not going to care about me?" Zhao Xiuxia��s voice changed. She hadn��t thought this way before; she couldn��t bear to let Sun Lijuan take care of her in her old age, not to mention that she wouldn��t do farm work, so she nned to sell Sun Chan, and then let Sun Chan support her. All the work would be done by Sun Chan, and with no money, Sun Chan��s husband would pay.

    Who would have thought Sun Chan wouldn��t recognize her anymore and even wanted to transfer her household registration!

    Sun Chan continued, "I won��t care about you, but I won��t be stingy either. We can go to the vige chief, and I��ll provide you with the usual elderly support fee as every viger does, but nothing more. You raised me for seventeen years, supporting you for a lifetime is more than enough."

    Zhao Xiuxia��s face turned blue, pointing at Sun Chan, unable to speak, tears streaming down from the anger.

    "I raised you only to get this result? Such unfilialness, how heartless you are!"

    "Do you mean I should obediently let you sell me to Xiong��er Ridge to be filial to you?" Sun Chan sneered, "You are a mother too, aren��t you afraid of being gossiped about? Selling me to benefit you and Sun Lijuan, enjoying life while I suffer, aren��t you afraid of retribution?"

    Zhao Xiuxia wanted to say she wasn��t afraid but remembered past events and stayed silent. She sat on the ground, beating her legs, wailing, "I raised such a worthless brat, I��m so angry I could die!" Tears and snot were all over her face.

    Sun Chan looked at her coldly, not a hint of remorse. More and more vigers gathered, most sympathizing with Sun Chan because everyone has seen how she lived over the years. To think of exchanging her for money, selling her to Xiong��er Ridge, who does such things? Though some elderly vigers felt Sun Chan went too far.

    After all, she was raised by her, sacrificing is still expected; her attitude is too cold.

    Gu Junming wanted to invite the vige chief, nced back, just in time to see Liu Yun, Wang Dan��s mother, standing over there; they had met before during the matchmaking.

    Liu Yun saw Gu Junming and felt awkward too, "It��s really you? I thought you looked simr from behind!"

    "It��s me, Aunt. Please call the vige chief. We need to resolve this matter today."

    "Got it, I understand." Liu Yun quickly left; after all, he had met her daughter previously, and now Wang Dan was married, she still found him good.

    Soon the vige chief arrived. Did he not know about the Zhao family��s matters? He immediately set up a table in the yard, and several parties involved sat down. Sun Sunchan and Gu Junming sat together, facing the fiery Zhao Xiuxia and Sun Lijuan. Vigers stood outside watching the show.

    The vige chief was someone who��d seen the world, recognizing Gu Junming��s epaulettes, knowing her rank wasn��t low, and showed some respect.

    "You��re here to transfer Sun Chan��s household registration today, correct?"

    "Yes," Gu Junming replied, "As they say, a forced melon is not sweet. Since so much has happened, the mother and daughter can��t possibly live together. Aunt Zhao shouldn��t hold onto Sun Chan forever; you aren��t a solitary elder; you have another daughter."

    "Of course I have a daughter!" Zhao Xiuxia retorted angrily, "But I can��t just raise her for nothing, right? Now when she can earn money, she flies away once she��s grown wings? Aren��t you afraid of being drowned in spit by others?"

    Sun Chan said indifferently, "I��m not afraid; my conscience is clear. It��s not that I won��t care about you; I��ll still provide you with living expenses. What else do you want? Must I cut my flesh to feed you both?"

    "You little wench, all you know is to talk nonsense! When did I ever do that?" Zhao Xiuxia said, grabbing a cup from the table and sshed water on Sun Chan��s face, soaking her hair and clothes.

    Gu Junming��s expression darkened. Before he could speak, Sun Chan grabbed a cup from her table and sshed it on Sun Lijuan��s face, who screamed.

    "What are you doing? Want to die?"

    "I told you, whatever your mother does to me, I��ll pay you back double." After saying, Sun Chan sshed another cup of Gu Junming��s water onto her face.

    Luckily, it wasn��t boiling hot, but Sun Lijuan still whined in pain. Zhao Xiuxia rushed over tofort her daughter.

    "Are you alright?"

    Sun Lijuan red at Sun Chan, saying nothing.

    Sun Chan took a towel handed by someone to wipe her hair, looking at Zhao Xiuxia trembling with anger, feeling an immense sense of satisfaction inside.

    Sun Lijuan said at that moment, "Don��t think because you found yourself a guy outside that I��m afraid of you! You��re not even married yet, bringing him here, what if he turns out like Ding Hu, you��ll still be abandoned, let��s see how arrogant you be then? I bet he��s not even gonna marry you, just toying with you! With your personality, who would really want to marry a parentless wild child like you?"

 Chapter 77 Bargaining

    <h4>Chapter 77: Chapter 77 Bargaining</h4><h4></h4>

    Sun Lijuan thought that after saying these words, Gu Junming would definitely be very angry. After all, her boyfriend was still involved with another man, he would definitely be furious. But unexpectedly, Gu Junming wasn��t angry, he just took out a handkerchief to wipe Sun Chan��s hair.

    Sun Chan, thinking there were many people around and feeling embarrassed to let him wipe, took the handkerchief and wiped her face twice, then looked at Sun Lijuan.

    "Since you��re someone who graduated from a vocational school, think about your job cement. You shouldn��t go too far. Gu Junming is an active serviceman, if you nder him for ying with women, be careful, he might send you to a military court!"

    Upon hearing the words "military court", Zhao Xiuxia and her daughter were stunned. After all, they had never left the vige, and hearing about going to court, they were naturally scared. Especially since Sun Lijuan wanted a good job in the future, she certainly couldn��t cause trouble.

    Seeing the two were being honest now, Gu Junming said: "Since Aunt has taken care of Sun Chan for over ten years, we are also not heartless people, you can propose conditions. As long as I can do it, I will definitely help you."

    Sun Lijuan thought it over, wiped her tears and said: "Sun Chan, since you look down on us now and want to climb higher, we won��t make it difficult for you. Just leave!"

    "Juan��er, what are you doing!" Zhao Xiuxia was anxious, why give up on her, this isn��t...

    Sun Lijuan held her mother��s arm and then looked at Gu Junming: "You��re a soldier, does your word count? You said conditions could be negotiated, if we agree to transfer Sun Chan��s household registration, will you give us anything?"

    "Yes. As long as it��s not too much, I will agree to your demands."

    Sun Lijuan said: "Fine, now the house is in such chaos, owing so much debt, Sun Chan can��t just leave like this."

    Zhao Xiuxia hurriedly said: "That��s right! Four thousand pluspensation for my rtives, no less than four thousand five! If you want to take the household registration, this money shoulde from you, after all, you caused this matter!"

    Sun Chan coldlyughed: "You fail at human trafficking, then me me for it, expecting me topensate your losses, your skin is really thick!"

    "If you don��t listen, I won��t give you the household registration! You can forget about living well for life! I��m not in a hurry, let��s see how you get married then!" Zhao Xiuxiaughed smugly.

    Everyone around was very dissatisfied, this woman was afraid her adopted daughter would live well!

    Sun Chan wasn��t angry because she already anticipated what kind of character her adoptive mother possessed.

    The vige chief furrowed his eyebrows, this woman was truly obnoxious. For years, she never participated in any obligatorybor the vige had, always came to snatch things when distributed. The vige tolerated her because she was a widow, now she openly extorts her adopted daughter, it��s really too much, but he himself had no rtion to this matter, and didn��t want any trouble.

    Sun Chan didn��t speak, Gu Junming had stated earlier, to follow his lead.

    "So, are my mother��s demands not excessive?" Sun Lijuan said: "I have another request, that when I graduate, you arrange a formal job for me. If you agree to both, just transfer the household registration out."

    "Right!" Zhao Xiuxia said: "Also, every month you provide me fifty yuan for living expenses, until I die. This way, we��ll just part ways in the future!"

    People around pursed their lips, this woman��s face was really thick!

    Gu Junming lightly tapped the table: "These demands are difficult for anyone to meet. I can agree to one of your requests with your daughter, either solve the debt issue or give her a job, besides that, Sun Chan will give you twenty yuan per month for living expenses. Because both I and my fellow soldiers send only this much to our parents too."

    "No way!" Zhao Xiuxia shouted sharply: "I don��t agree, you should leave immediately, I won��t transfer the household registration!"

    Sun Lijuan coldly looked at Sun Chan, the more she looked at Gu Junming, the more handsome she found him. She wondered how this wench managed to seduce Gu Junming. Sun Chan walked in the vige without even lifting her head, how did she hook up with this man?

    Gu Junming said: "People, if I can catch them, I can release them. By then, if the two brotherse to your house causing chaos, it wouldn��t be good."

    "Why cause chaos? They are breaking thew by doing this!" Sun Lijuan said angrily.

    "Paying off debts is only natural. Why can��t they cause chaos?" Gu Junmingughed: "You have promissory notes in your hands with them, right? Even if reported to the police station, there��s nothing they can do."

    Zhao Xiuxia opened her mouth, her face turned blue. If those bastardse again, the house might be torn down.

    Gu Junming continued: "When those two from Xiong��er Ridge harm you two, we can naturally transfer the household registration, otherwise we��ll use a more straightforward measure, use you of human trafficking, throw you in jail, then we can conveniently transfer the registration, these two methods, I don��t want to use, so don��t push me."

    Zhao Xiuxia couldn��t speak anymore, seeing how ruthless this person was, he would do as he says!

    She pulled her daughter��s arm asking for her opinion.

    But at this moment, Sun Lijuan��s eyes kept being fixed on Gu Junming, not even noticing her mother��s actions.

    Zhao Xiuxia was anxious, originally wanted to use Sun Chan��s household registration to threaten her, but now was being surely blocked by Gu Junming, Sun Chan didn��t say a word, leaving everything to Gu Junming.

    Gu Junming appeared amicable and reasonable, but was quite difficult and even somewhat threatening.

    "Considering Sun Chan has lived with you for many years, I also don��t want to involve the police to handle this. But if Ick capability, I can only let them manage it." If you push me too hard, I��ll arrest you! Then even if you don��t want to transfer the household registration, you will have to.

    Zhao Xiuxia ran out of options, started crying again: "This daughter we raised with effort has harmed us to this point, now just walks away, what do I do now! I can��t live, this is taking my life!"

    Sun Chan coldlyughed: "Those unaware might think I��ve done something unforgivable, but clearly you tried to sell me and failed, resulting in offending people from Xiong��er Ridge, being punished like this, and now you me me? Otherwise, how about we go to the police station and let them judge!"

    Sun Lijuan naturally didn��t want that, she held Zhao Xiuxia��s arm, thought for a moment, said: "How about this, you solve the four thousand yuan debt, also find me a job, as for the living expenses, we won��t ask for them, I will have a sry and can naturally support mom."

    Sun Lijuan still considered her own interest more, with a year and a half until graduation, she realized it was impossible to make Sun Chanpromise further.

 Chapter 78: Separation from Household Registration

    <h4>Chapter 78: Chapter 78: Separation from Household Registration</h4>

    She wanted to sort out her job situation first and foremost.

    As for the debt issue, there��s still a bit left from mother��s side, but since they��re all family, it should be resolved easily. The opportunity is fleeting, and she must seize the moment to secure a job!

    Zhao Xiuxia eximed anxiously, "I raised Sun Chan, why shouldn��t she support me in my old age? All the conditions must be met. The family��s debts, my pension, and Lijuan��s job..."

    Gu Junming replied calmly, "I can agree to Sun Lijuan��s demands, but your demands are exorbitant. Let��s let the authorities decide."

    Zhao Xiuxia was still unhappy, stalling for an hour and repeating the same arguments. Sun Chan and Sun Lijuan remained silent while Zhao Xiuxia howled, and Gu Junming kept stating, "Follow Sun Lijuan��s demands, or we��ll take it to court."

    "Are you done yet? Who has the time to listen to your nonsense?" the vige chief said, a bit annoyed.

    From behind, Liu Yun frowned and said, "Zhao Xiuxia, thatrade is just a soldier, and from the countryside. He also has elderly parents and a sister to support; he can��t afford so much. Don��t go overboard!"

    Wang Dan had also spoken to her about Sun Chan, and Liu Yun, having a favorable impression of Sun Chan, was a bit upset seeing Zhao Xiuxia acting so arrogantly.

    Zhao Xiuxia was infuriated, "Mind your own business!"

    The vige chief stood up, "If you can��t decide, I��ll go back first ande back when you��ve figured it out."

    Zhao Xiuxia hurriedly held him back, "You can��t leave, you need to stand up for me!"

    The vige chief rolled his eyes; demanding such arge sum for no reason, and being so bold about it��what nerve.

    Sun Lijuan whispered a few words to her.

    Zhao Xiuxia��s eyes lit up, then she said, "Okay! I agree with you all. But if you want to marry Sun Chan, shouldn��t there be a bride price? A thousand isn��t excessive, right?"

    Sun Chan said, "Gu Junming is a soldier, not a businessman, how can he have that much money? There won��t be a bride price."

    "That��s not okay! After raising you, you can��t even give a bride price? Does that make sense? Just give the bride price, and we��re done! Otherwise, I��ll never agree, even if it kills me! Look around, which vige daughter��s marriage doesn��te with a bride price!"

    Gu Junming said, "I can give you the bride price."

    Sun Chan frowned at Gu Junming, while Zhao Xiuxia quickly interjected, "That��s what you said, I didn��t force you!"

    Gu Junming smirked, "Of course, I mean what I say, but a thousand��s not happening. I��ll give ording to the vige��s standard. Sun Chan, how much?"

    Sun Chan frowned silently, and a woman nearby said, "It��s usually two hundred, three hundred if the family��s well-off."

    Zhou Jinzhu was forced to give five hundred back then due to his poor circumstances, otherwise, he wouldn��t have had to.

    Gu Junming simply said, "Alright, I��ll give three hundred. But Sun Chan is only seventeen now, and it��s still three years until marriage. I��ll naturally provide the bride price then."

    Zhao Xiuxia was about to protest, but Sun Lijuan stopped her, whispering, "By then, we��ll raise the price. If he doesn��t pay, we��ll create a scene at his workce; he won��t dare not to pay!"

    Zhao Xiuxia thought for a moment and agreed. By the time they marry in three years, the bride price will surely be higher, and they should seize the chance to demand a lot.

    With Zhao Xiuxia finally relenting, both families drafted an agreement, with Gu Junming helping to resolve the 4000-yuan debt and arranging a formal city job for Sun Lijuan, along with the 300-yuan bride price. There would be no living expenses, and all ties would be severed.

    Zhao Xiuxia, not very literate, listened as Sun Lijuan read the agreement aloud. After a long contemtion, she reluctantly agreed. With a sullen face, she went inside, brought out the household registration booklet, and tossed it at Sun Chan��s face. But Sun Chan swiftly stepped back and grabbed it, her movements agile.

    Zhao Xiu scoffed and spat on the ground. Sun Lijuan lowered her eyelids, focusing on the importance of her job, and held her peace.

    Both parties said no more, quickly heading to the town. Gu Junming, having previously coordinated with the locals, went straight to the officials to draft the document and press fingerprints.

    With the new household registration issued, Sun Chan was no longer Zhao Xiuxia��s daughter.

    Zhao Xiuxia gave Sun Chan a hateful re, while Sun Chan looked back calmly, her gaze full of indifference. She was truly liberated now.

    Sun Lijuan didn��t hurry off. She approached Gu Junming with a smile, "Brother-inw, what kind of job have you set up for me?"

    The way she addressed him was very familiar.

    Gu Junming said, "You haven��t graduated yet, no need to rush. I said I��d arrange it, and I will."

    "Any chance I could call your office? What��s the number?"

    Gu Junming��s voice turned cold, "No, you can��t. We��re very busy."

    "You��re going to be my brother-inw; it makes sense to keep in touch, doesn��t it?" Sun Lijuan��s voice took on a coquettish tone. After all, he��s a Deputy Battalion Commander, with a decent sry and allowances. Compared to Sun Chan, an elementary dropout, I��ve clearly got the better prospects.

    Gu Junming nced at Sun Lijuan, his tone t, "Do you not understand what ��severed ties�� means? If you don��t, you can look it up in a dictionary. Sun Chan doesn��t recognize you as her sister, and naturally, I don��t either. No need to try and forge a connection. Go home, your mother is waiting."

    Sun Lijuan��s smile froze. She saw Sun Chan watching her with a smirk, eyes full of mockery. She wished she could find a hole to crawl into, damn Sun Chan! Just wait!

    Clenching her fists, she stormed off, seething at the thought of punching Sun Chan��s face.

    You still have three years before you can marry him. I can mess things up with Ding Hu, just as I can with him!

    Gu Junming said, "By the way, let your mother know that you and Sun Chan are no longer rted. If you continue to exploit her, it couldnd you in jail."

    Sun Lijuan didn��t reply, striding away.

    Sun Chan received her independent household registration and was overwhelmed with emotion, on the verge of tears.

    Gu Junming patted her shoulder, "It��s over now. No one will guilt-trip you about filial piety anymore."

    "But the price feels too high; it makes me ufortable," Sun Chan reflected on how Gu Junming had been assisting her since they met, feeling uneasy.

    "We didn��t spend a dime on those debts. If those two brothers don��t want to go to prison, they won��t ask Zhao Xiuxia for money anymore; they��ve already gotten plenty of benefits. If they still ask for money, they��d be pushing their luck. As for Sun Lijuan��s job, I��ve already decided where to ce her; she��ll end up in a situation she regrets."

    "Oh? Where are you sending her?" Sun Chan asked curiously.

    Gu Junming chuckled and said, "I��m going to get her a job at the town government."

    Sun Chan blinked. That��s a pretty decent job?

 Chapter 79 Sisterly Heart-to-Heart

    <h4>Chapter 79: Chapter 79 Sisterly Heart-to-Heart</h4>

    Both of them had been outside for a while, and Sun Chan couldn��t help but ask Gu Junming, "Why did you arrange such a good job for her?"

    Gu Junming replied, "It��s not good at all; it��s a clerk job in the poverty relief office, specializing in rural investigations. It seems like a good city job, but it��s actually rooted in rural neighborhoods year-round, facing those opportunistic troublemakers who aren��t easy to deal with �� they��re willing to fight over just a dor. Sun Lijuan should enjoy the fun of work."

    Beforeing, he had already decided to use resolving Sun Lijuan��s job situation as a condition to help Sun Chan out of her predicament, so he had already arranged her path ahead of time.

    After listening to Gu Junming��s words, Sun Chan couldn��t help butugh. Let��s see how much she enjoys being bullied when the timees.

    Gu Junming continued, "As for the dowry, don��t take it too seriously. Asking for dowry when marrying off a daughter ispletely natural, and I can��t help you argue against that. Besides, three years from now, who knows what will happen? Don��t worry, I��m not very clever, but I��m never at a disadvantage, so you can be sure of that."

    Sun Chan nodded, "I believe you."

    Gu Junming said, "Don��t let these people affect your mood; thinking about your future is what��s most important. Also, don��t feel guilty. Since we��re seeing each other, I should help solve your problems; otherwise, what would you need me for?"

    Sun Chan replied with a smile, "Okay."

    Because Zhao Xiuxia had been causing drama, they finished these matters by evening and didn��t have time to go to Xiangyang Vige, so they had to stay overnight temporarily.

    But Sun Chan absolutely wouldn��t go to Zhao Xiuxia��s house, so she decided to stay at the vige head��s ce for a night.

    However, halfway there, Liu Yun came up to them, smiling, "Sun Chan, my Dandan just got back! She heard you returned to the vige, so why note to our house? You too,rade, okay? Wang Dan��s dad is working in the city and isn��t home, so it won��t be inconvenient."

    Sun Chan was delighted, since she hadn��t seen Wang Dan in a long time.

    Gu Junming declined; he had once been a suitor for Wang Dan, and since he and Sun Chan were only dating and not married, it wouldn��t be appropriate to stay together, so they parted ways.

    He went to the vige head��s ce, while Sun Chan and Liu Yun went to Wang Dan��s.

    Throughout the journey, Liu Yun was much more enthusiastic toward Sun Chan than she was in the vige, because Sun Chan��s partner wasn��t an ordinary person, and building good rtions had benefits. Sun Chan was well aware of this and wasn��t annoyed; it was just natural for one��s daughter��s sake, not to mention Wang Dan had helped her. Seeing Wang Dan being so clever, it seemed she inherited it from her mother.

    Wang Dan was sitting in the yard stringing chili peppers, threading them into long strings to hang at the door to dry, ready for winter consumption. The ground was covered in red chilies, which looked quite nice. When she saw Sun Chaning in, she quickly got up to greet her.

    Sun Chan giggled as she held Wang Dan��s hand, and Wang Dan looked her up and down, "Sun Chan, you��ve be prettier!"

    "You��re the one," Sun Chanughed, as Wang Dan wore a red jacket, white trousers, and had her hair permed, with not a trace of a viger��s image.

    The two of them strung peppers while chatting, and though Wang Dan had gotten married, her personality was as straightforward as before. She told Sun Chan that she and her husband were now doing some knitwear wholesale business.

    "We just sell sweaters, pants, plus cotton hats, gloves, socks, and such; the business is quite good."

    Sun Chan nodded with a smile, "I see you have the look of a small business owner."

    "Of course," Wang Dan giggled, "Everything else is illusory; having money is what��s real."

    Her mother-inw used to think her daughter-inw was a bit domineering, but now seeing her idle son being led by his wife on the right path and making money, she is quite pleased.

    "Didn��t your partnere?" Sun Chan asked.

    "His great-uncle is sick today, so he went to keep himpany, and I came home to check on things. Unexpectedly, I ran into youing back! I know you��re fighting with Zhao Xiuxia and wanted toe out to see, but my mom won��t let me, saying she knows my temper, worried that as a new daughter-inw I��d go out to quarrel, afraid my mother-inw would be unhappy. What��s the big deal anyway!"

    Sun Chan was struck dumb for a moment, "His great-uncle is sick, don��t you need to care?"

    Wang Dan chuckled, "Why should I care? Apart from his parents, whom I must visit if they��re sick, the rest I won��t bother with; I haven��t eaten a bite of their food, not even seen them. His rtives are his own business; my rtives, I��ll take care myself. I��m married to him, not sold to him, right?"

    Sun Chan was dumbfounded; in the vige, taking care of elders is the woman��s responsibility, ignoring them would be highly disrespectful. But Wang Dan viewed it so lightly, her perspective was indeed quite trendy.

    Wang Dan held on to Sun Chan, chuckling quietly, "I��ve always sensed you and that Gu Junming would hit it off, though you never admitted it. Now you two are truly together, right?"

    Sun Chan��s face turnedpletely red as she shyly nudged Wang Dan��s arm.

    Wang Dan said, "Since you��ve chosen such a person, you should be mentally prepared; his family��s burdens are heavy �� a divorced sister, parents with poor health, you��ll definitely be very busy in the future."

    Sun Chan smiled, "It��s okay; I can handle it. I��m not afraid of hardship. As long as we��re doing well, that��s all that matters."

    "That��s good, I know you��re virtuous, and Gu Junming is a good man, so you two will surely have a good future together." Wang Dan patted Sun Chan��s shoulder.

    Liu Yun cherished her daughter, so dinner was particrly sumptuous with baked pancakes, a big pot of stewed potatoes and beef, plus scrambled eggs with leeks, ck fungus with cabbage �� a table full of delicious food.

    During dinner, Liu Yun kept giving her daughter food, "Eat more, I��m telling you, it��s been a month since you and your husband got married, right? Any sign yet?"

    Wang Dan blushed, "Mom! It��s only been a few days; you��re even more anxious than my mother-inw."

    "What do you understand? Early birth is better thante, now when you have a baby, I can help you look after them. Later, with this old body of mine, how could I manage? So, have one soon!"

    Wang Dan pouted, not taking it seriously.

    Liu Yun first reprimanded her daughter for being ignorant, then worried about her going out underdressed and cold, fearing she��d catch a cold.

    Sun Chan watched the mother-daughter rtionship and felt quite envious.

    That night, the twoid in bed together, talking about their experiences in the city. Wang Dan told Sun Chan that doing business now is typically profitable.

    "Though those in the city with formal jobs look down on us vendors, we earn real money! Sun Chan, if you have some capital, you should consider it. You definitely won��t regret it!"

    Sun Chan nodded and shared her ns, "Actually, I��ve thought about it. I want to do something with food. This has a rtively low cost; I can afford it, and even if it doesn��t work out, the loss won��t be much."

    "In X City?"

    Sun Chan pursed her lips and smiled, tacitly agreeing.

 Chapter 80: Midnight at 3 o’clock

    <h4>Chapter 80: Chapter 80: Midnight at 3 o��clock</h4>

    Sun Chan had this idea for a long time. She felt she wasn��t suited for the work at the sanatorium, and all the scheming among colleagues and various social interactions were not what she was good at.

    There had been constant turmoil before, and now such a big incident had erupted again. Although the director didn��t say anything, she knew he was very dissatisfied. If it weren��t for Mr. Yan and Yan Kai, she probably would have been fired right then.

    Rather than putting others in a difficult position, it would be better to resign herself. She had never mentioned her idea of starting a business to anyone before, but now, when Wang Dan asked, she spoke up.

    "That��s a good idea! How much do you need now? I can give you some money," said Wang Dan, as she reached to give Sun Chan some cash. It��ste autumn now, but Wang Dan sleeps in just a small white tank top, and when she sat up, the quilt slid down, revealing her pale arms. Sun Chan quickly covered her up again.

    "What are you doing? Be careful not to catch a cold! I haven��t decided what to do yet. No rush."

    "Alright, just let me know when you need money; I might not have much, but a thousand or eight hundred isn��t a problem." Wang Dan paused, then smiled and said, "I��m not afraid, but don��t tell anyone else. Otherwise, everyone will be asking me for loans."

    "I know what I��m doing," Sun Chan smiled andy down with her.

    Somehow, Lin Hongmei was mentioned.

    Wang Dan sneered, "I heard she wants to reconcile with Han Dong again."

    "Really? Weren��t the two of them done for?"

    Wang Dan said, "I guess she found someone whose conditions aren��t great and wants to reel him back in. But she can��t find him at all, supposedly not in this area, no one knows where he went."

    Sun Chan thought to herself, thest time he said he went south to do a fruit business, probably hasn��t returned?

    Wang Dan chatted with her for a while before falling asleep.

    In the middle of the night, Sun Chan got up to use the bathroom and vaguely saw someone standing outside. In the vige, there��s usually no thief, everyone locks up and goes to sleep.

    Now, it��s easy for someone to get in.

    Is it Gu Junming? No way, he wouldn��t sneak around like this.

    Sun Chan cautiously walked over, casually picking up a pickaxe near the pigsty: "Who is it? Speak up! Otherwise, I��ll scream!"

    "Don��t scream, it��s me, Sun Chan. Open the door, I have something to say to you." It was Ding Hu��s voice. His voice was deep and excited.

    Sun Chan��s heart sank as she coldly responded, "Ding Hu, what are you trying to do in the middle of the night? You��re married now, and I have someone too. What do you have to say to me? Leave now."

    Ding Hu��s hand gripped the bars, his voice filled with pain and grievance: "Don��t leave, Sun Chan. I��ve really missed you during the days you were gone. Now that you��re back, let me see you?"

    During the day he was busy farming and hadn��t heard about themotion with Sun Chan and Zhao Xiuxia.

    After dinner at home, upon hearing his mother-inw��s family talk, he realized Sun Chan returned, with a military boyfriend. They discussed terms for a long time before moving her household registration out of Zhao Xiuxia��s house.

    Mrs. Liuughed, "Sun Chan really has skills, in just a few days in the city, she hooked up with a soldier, escaped from Zhao Xiuxia. I heard he��s a battalionmander. The future��s bright."

    Mr. Liu, a kind-hearted man, puffed on his pipe and said, "Originally, it was our family that wronged her. Now she found someone good herself, we can feel relieved."

    Liu Mei nced at the dazed Ding Hu and mmed her chopsticks: "We��re eating, why discuss someone else��s affairs?"

    Ding Hu didn��t dare say a word, his mind was shaken by this news. Sun Chan managed to find someone? He felt that since he was once close with Sun Chan, she should think of him for life, how could she find someone else?

    Ding Hu still thought when he made money he could divorce Liu Mei and return to find Sun Chan, but she turned and found a match!

    And such favorable conditions too, a battalionmander! How much sry would that be! They say he looks spirited too?

    Ding Hu was nearly losing his mind but dared not show it. Only after the wife��s family fell asleep did he sneak out to find Sun Chan. He believed she had feelings for him and wouldn��t easily be with someone else!

    Sun Chan, under the moonlight, looked so elegant and beautiful. Ding Hu��s heart stirred, quietly saying, "Sun Chan,e out. Let��s talk..."

    Sun Chan sneered coldly, "You��re a married woman, and I have someone too, yet you��re tangled up here? You might not care about your face, but I do, hurry up and leave, otherwise, I��ll wake Wang Dan��s mother and daughter, let��s see what face you��ll have."

    After finishing her words, she turned and walked away.

    Ding Hu anxiously said, "Don��t leave, I��ve always thought of you and never forgot you. Believe me, I really... ah!"

    Before he could finish, someone poured a bunch of sour, rotten stuff on his head. It was swill for feeding pigs that Sun Chan scooped out and poured on him.

    "Sun Chan, what are you doing?" Ding Hu was covered in swill, the smell so overpowering he was about to vomit.

    Sun Chan threw the shovel aside, snorted: "Next time you bother me, I won��t throw pigswill but hot water to scald you! In your mind, am I so shameless to have an affair with a married man?" Finished speaking, she mmed the door and left.

    Ding Hu was anxious and angry but dared not go inside. He knew Wang Dan��s mother and daughter��s temperament well; if things got big, he��d be the one suffering. He could only swallow his anger and return home, vomiting several times from the stench on his way. He sat in the yard to bathe, dared not heat the water, and caught a cold from the chilly autumn air the next morning.

    Liu Mei saw her feverish husbandying on the bed and said disdainfully: "What a useless man! Work a few days and get sick. What do I feed you for, like a spoileddy, useless at everything, eats everything clean? I was blind back then to let you be a son-inw! Think of how much debt was paid off for your family, seeing you annoys me! With so much autumn harvest work, you won��t do it, shall I?"

    A slew ofints made Ding Hu��s anger re.

    His inws ignored it, letting their daughter treat him poorly. Ding Hu deeply regretted being so foolish to abandon Sun Chan.

    Lying on the bed, Ding Hu thought about Sun Chan��s graceful face and slender figure, wishing to hold her tight; but recalling her indifference, felt blocked up inside, his heart in turmoil, worsening his illness. He couldn��t get out of bed the next day and naturally got scolded again by his wife and inws.

 Chapter 81: Going Home

    <h4>Chapter 81: Chapter 81: Going Home</h4>

    Ding Hu felt increasingly wronged. Before marriage, the work in the fields was done by his parents, and he didn��t have to worry about anything. When he was with Sun Chan, she was also a skilled worker and would help him from time to time.

    And now? Every day he works like a donkey at the Liu Family��s and has to endure their scolding. What kind of life is this? If he had married Sun Chan back then, would he be this miserable? It��s hateful how Sun Chan is also so cold-blooded and heartless now. She��s found someone better and forgotten me, such a fickle woman!

    Here he resents Sun Chan and also Liu Mei, and the thought of going to the city starts to take shape in his mind. Let me go make big money in the city! Far away from all of you!

    Sun Chan naturally had no idea nor did she care. She got up in the morning for a wash, helped Liu Yun feed the pigs, and was sweeping the yard when Gu Junming came over. He was looking spirited, smiling as he walked in.

    Sun Chanughed and said, "Is the kang in the vige chief��s house warm?"

    Gu Junming smiled silently and, taking advantage of Liu Yun not paying attention, whispered, "The vige chief��s wife wants her nephew from her mother��s side to join the army. He��s already twenty-four, way over the age limit, so I didn��t agree, and she got mad. She chased me out without breakfast."

    Sun Chan couldn��t help butugh, "The vige chief must not know about this, or he��d definitely hit that wasteful wife of his. He still wants to win you over. Yet, she won��t even let you have a meal."

    "Even if she did, I wouldn��t help her for personal gain. Besides, their food doesn��t look good at all."

    The two of them joked quietly for a while, then Liu Yun came out. Both proposed to leave.

    Liu Yun hurriedly held them back, "Have breakfast before you go, it won��t take long."

    Gu Junming smiled, "We should have gone back yesterday, but somehow got dyed. If we don��t go home for breakfast, my parents will be unhappy. Thank you very much for your hospitality."

    Liu Yun had no choice but to let it go. It was all Zhao Xiuxia��s doing. Meanwhile, Wang Dan packed some cucumbers and tomatoes for Sun Chan and urged her to visit when possible.

    Sun Chan also said a few heartfelt words to Liu Yun before leaving with Gu Junming.

    Watching them leave, Liu Yun pointed at her daughter��s forehead with her finger, "You silly girl, I urged you to date Gu Junming back then, but you refused. Now he��s the Deputy Battalion Commander! Look how handsome he is; I liked him back then. It��s toote for regrets now."

    "So what? My boyfriend earns more than him even as a Commander. Hurry up, let��s eat. I need to go back to do business. When I earn a lot of money, I��ll buy all the good stuff for you and dad." Wang Dan cheerfully hugged her mother��s arm.

    Liu Yun shook her head with a smile. This girl is married but still acts like a child.

    When Su Chan and Gu Junming reached the vige entrance, they saw a maning over.

    It was Ding Hu. He hadn��t fully recovered from his illness, and hisplexion was poor. He coughed a few times as he approached.

    Sun Chan said coldly, "I have nothing to say to you."

    "I didn��t want to talk to you," he said as he went up to Gu Junming. "Don��t think that just because you��re with Sun Chan now, you can be smug. Sun Chan is always like that, worshipping the powerful and stepping on the weak. If she meets someone more capable, she��ll definitely dump you too!"

    Gu Junming, unexpectedly, just coldly nced at Ding Hu and walked away.

    Ding Hu was dumbfounded. How could this guy not be angry at all?

    He then turned to Sun Chan, "What kind of mind-controlling potion did you feed him?"

    Sun Chan sneered, "Ding Hu, what are you trying to do by acting like this? Destroy me? You��re such a despicable creature! In my life, I��ve been deceived badly by Zhao Xiuxia and Sun Lijuan, but the thing they sessfully did was make us fall apart. Let me give you some advice, live your life well and mind your own business, you really are shameless!" With that, she walked away.

    Ding Hu staggered, looking at Sun Chan��s back for a long time before realizing that she was reallypletely different from before.

    Neither Gu Junming nor Sun Chan mentioned what just happened. Such a person like Ding Hu was not worth talking about.

    The weather was nice, and it was downhill all the way. After walking for more than an hour, they arrived at Xiangyang Vige.

    This was where Gu Junming had lived for over ten years. Corn stalks and sorghum canesy on both sides, as it was about to be the leisure farming season.

    Gu Junming told Su Chan, "The soil here is more alkaline; whenever the air is humid, it looks like there��s white frost everywhere. It��s very barren, and grain yields are low. We can only grow some sour jujubes, sweet sorghum, and corn. Life is tough."

    Sun Chan nodded, "The two viges are very close, but thend is quite different."

    "Yeah, there aren��t many people farming in Xiangyang Vige now; most have gone to work elsewhere." He smiled, "I lived so close to you, yet we never met before."

    Sun Chan felt simrly. In her past life, she never left the vige; fortunately, in this life, she decided against living that way, or her future would still be bleak, and she wouldn��t have met Gu Junming.

    Gu Junming pointed at two earthen houses in front andughed, "That��s my home."

    The house wasn��trge, but it was tidily organized. The yard was filled with sweet potato vines, the vegetable plot was well-kept, and the line for drying clothes had a few gray coats dripping with water.

    "My sister is at home," Gu Junmingughed, "Whenever she��s home, everything is sparkling clean from morning till night."

    Sun Chan thought of meeting Gu Junming��s family members and suddenly felt nervous.

    Gu Junming held her hand, "Don��t worry, I��m here."

    "No, someone might see." Sun Chan pushed his hand away.

    Gu Junming knew she was shy and didn��t press her further.

    As they were walking, two people approached the fork in the road, heading to the same house.

    A woman around forty, carrying a small basket filled with boiled chestnuts and some sour jujubes, was apanied by a girl of about eighteen or neen. The girl wore a patterned blouse, with two long braids hanging in front, looking quite pretty, with fair skin and big eyes that were quite striking everywhere she went.

    The woman saw Gu Junming and greeted him warmly, "Is Mingzi back? Do you still remember us? I��m your Aunt Qiuyue. Here, Miao Miao, you��ve been thinking about Brother Gu all the time, and here he��s back. Say hello!"

    She said this while pushing the girl beside her towards Gu Junming, who almost stumbled into her arms.

    Gu Junming instinctively stepped back to avoid the iing girl, "Aunt, don��t do this; we��re not kids anymore. People will gossip if they see us."

    The girl bit her lip, a look of dissatisfaction on her face.

    Sun Chan slightly frowned at Gu Junming; who was this girl?

 Chapter 82: Don’t Want to Be the Chief’s Wife Anymore?

    <h4>Chapter 82: Chapter 82: Don��t Want to Be the Chief��s Wife Anymore?</h4>

    Gu Junming said to Sun Chan, "Aunt Ding is our vige head. My nephew identally fell into the river before, and it was Su Miao who helped save his life."

    "That��s right," Qiuyueughed, "Our two families are meant to be connected. My daughter Su Miao has always been thinking about her Brother Junming! Who knew she would meet him as soon as she came."

    This was said with skill, if Gu Junming was interested, it was for the best, if not, it could just be taken as a joke, purely a probing move.

    Su Miao quickly turned around and pulled her mother, yfully scolding, "Mom! What are you talking about? When did I ever say that? If Brother hears it, he��ll think I��m indecent. If you keep talking, I��ll leave!" After saying that, she stomped her foot and was ready to leave.

    Ding Qiuyue hurriedly stopped her, "We��re all from the same vige, what��s the big deal? Right, Gu Junming?"

    Su Miao gave Gu Junming a shy nce, expecting some kind of reaction from him upon hearing this. But his expression remained calm, not even ncing at her, which made her somewhat disappointed.

    Su Miao��s father is the vige head of Xiangyang Vige, and their family��s conditions are quite good in the vige. His wife, Ding Qiuyue, naturally held her head high, wanting to find someone good for her daughter. In the beginning, she didn��t pay attention to Gu Junming in the vige, thinking he was a brat unattended by his parents, raised by the Wang Family, and didn��t even look at him directly.

    However,ter on, he was suddenly taken back to the city by his father, and only then did they realize his father was a city official! Later, they heard he joined the army and was promoted, so these years they always found excuses to show up in front of the Wang Family people. Who knew they��d run into him today.

    Ding Qiuyue was daydreaming when suddenly Gu Junmingughed and said, "Aunt, don��t joke around, my partner is right beside me. What if she gets mad at me and ignores me when we go back?"

    Ding Qiuyue was stunned, originally thinking Sun Chan was just passing by, who would have thought she was actually with him?

    Su Miao looked upset, "She��s your partner?"

    Gu Junming held Sun Chan��s hand, "Yes, I��m dating, nning to get engaged, and I came back to show my parents."

    Su Miao forced a bitter smile, "Brother Gu is getting engaged? This girl... she��s really pretty."

    I was the first to notice him! Over the years, I��ve always helped your family. I look prettier than this girl, so why choose her? Ding Qiuyue was also quite unhappy, in the vige, everyone knew her daughter had her eyes on Gu Junming, that��s why she��s still not engaged at twenty. Now, he quietly found a partner, isn��t that a p in the face?

    Gu Junming had no interest in guessing what these two were thinking, with a couple of simple words he excused himself, holding Sun Chan��s hand as they walked past them. Sun Chan felt the gaze from behind, like two sharp swords, making her ufortable, but she ignored it, taking a few steps with Gu Junming before letting go of his hand.

    "What��s wrong, are you jealous?"

    "Hmm," Sun Chan smiled faintly, "A Bai Fann in the city and a Su Miao in the vige, you really are popr."

    Gu Junming chuckled, "Do you really think they like me? If I took off this military uniform, I��d probably be nothing. But you��re different, even if I returned to toiling in the fields, you would surely stay with me. Right?"

    Sun Chan saw his gentle smile, and her heart twitched gently. In her past life, she never felt this way, is this what it��s like to truly like someone? Her cheeks blushed, as she nodded slightly.

    The two of them, lost in their own world, made Su Miao and Ding Qiuyue behind them look like their eyes were shooting sparks.

    Su Miao was so angry she was about to cry, turning to leave.

    But Ding Qiuyue grabbed her by the hand, "Where are you going?"

    "He already has someone, why should I meddle here? Isn��t this embarrassing enough? I��m leaving! Why endure being hated here?"

    Su Miao��s looks were top-notch among the nearby viges, always admired from a young age, she had her pride. Who would��ve thought she��d be pped in the face by Gu Junming, she couldn��t take this blow and was about to leave.

    But Ding Qiuyue stopped her daughter, "Are you stupid? It��s not final yet, is it? Can you decide major life events on your own? I don��t think that girl looks like she��s from the city. She��s probably nowhere near our family��s standards. You can��t give up until thest moment."

    "But mom..."

    "Do you want to marry a farmer, not be the wife of a chief? Think about your aunt, she just went to some lousy university, but because she found a good match, what��s her life like now?"

    Hearing the words ��wife of a chief�� made Su Miao tremble a bit. Yes, what does face matter? Once married, I could live in a small mansion, even have a driver. I can��t give up!

    Moreover, I did save his nephew��s life once, even if he marries me, it would be fully justified.

    Thinking of this, Su Miao adjusted her clothes and followed her mother inside.

    Sun Chan had just reached the main room in the courtyard when the door opened, and a woman in her thirties came out. She looked ordinary but was obviously a kind person. She held a basin full of clothes, wearing simple clothes.

    She saw Gu Junming and Sun Chan, paused for a moment, then smiled happily, "Junming, you��re back! Why didn��t you give a heads-up?"

    She put the basin on the ground and came over, looking up and down at Gu Junming, "You��ve lost weight again! Are you eating well in the army?"

    Gu Junming smiled and introduced, "This is my sister, Wang Shufen. This is my partner, Sun Chan."

    Wang Shufen watched her brother bring his girlfriend home, her face showing an honest smile, "Great! Dad and Mom have been saying you��re getting too old to find a partner, this is a surprise!"

    Gu Junmingughed, "Where are Mom and Dad?"

    "Yesterday, they went to celebrate great-uncle��s birthday, and stayed over. I reckon they��ll be back soon. Aren��t you busy? Howe you had time toe back?"

    Wang Shufen was just about to chat with Sun Chan when Ding Qiuyue and her daughter came around, "Shufen, Miao Miao and I came to see Gu Junming and brought some food, don��t be polite, it��s for Kangkang." She ced the basket on the stone table in the yard.

    Su Miao pursed her lips and smiled, "Kangkang looks so smart, does well in school too, I like him a lot."

    Kangkang is Sun Shufen��s son, now eight years old, studying at the vige��s elementary school.

    Back then, Wang Shufen hadn��t divorced, and she was working in the fields with her child. Exhausted, she fell asleep, and the child ran off almost drowning in the nearby river. Su Miao happened to pass by and saved him, otherwise, he would��ve drowned in the pond.

 Chapter 83: The Conditions Aren’t Great Either

    <h4>Chapter 83: Chapter 83: The Conditions Aren��t Great Either</h4>

    The two people kept mentioning Wang Shufen��s son from the moment they arrived today, which surprised her a bit, but she still smiled and thanked them.

    "You��re so thoughtful, always thinking about our Kangkang."

    Gu Junming appeared calm, showing no particr emotion.

    "Brother Junming! These dates are from the tree at our ce. If you like them, I��ll bring more for everyone to enjoy." Su Miao nced at Gu Junming and then lowered her head to look at her shoe tips, her face full of girlishness.

    Ding Qiuyue hurriedly said to Gu Junming, "Yes, these foods are probably not found in the city, and they aren��t worth much."

    Gu Junming replied, "In the army camp, we don��t have much of these kinds of food."

    Su Miao felt a surge of happiness: "Then you should ept..."

    "But the trees behind my girlfriend��s workce are full of them, and she often brings them to me. It��s no trouble; you should keep them for yourselves. I don��tck any. You��re too kind."

    From Gu Junming��s words, two messages were clear: one, he didn��t want to ept Su Miao��s goodwill, and two, his current partner had a job. After speaking, Gu Junming smiled at Sun Chan. Sun Chan, feeling quite uneasy, nudged him, and Wang Shufen, seeing her brother like this, couldn��t help but smile.

    "Is she really your girlfriend?" Ding Qiuyue asked, still not giving up.

    "Yes, her name is Sun Chan." Gu Junming gently held Sun Chan��s hand, looking dotingly.

    Su Miao bit her lip without speaking. Ding Qiuyue looked at Sun Chan: "Which vige are you from?"

    "The neighboring vige."

    "Oh." Ding Qiuyue felt reassured, knowing all the reputable and wealthy families in the adjacent vige; it was surely a child from a not so poor family.

    The condition is not great; even with a job, the family burden wouldn��t be light.

    Despite her inner grumbling, Ding Qiuyue disyed a smile: "This girl, she looks like a blessed girl. What do your parents do?"

    Sun Chan said, "My parents have passed away." In her past life, she had given up on finding her real parents, and there were no further connections with Zhao Xiuxia, so she considered herself an orphan.

    Ding Qiuyue felt even more delighted��being an orphan without family support is most frowned upon in the vige. Without family backing, being a lone entity, no one would want to take such a daughter-inw, no matter how beautiful she is.

    Wang Shufen��s face also showed a bit of displeasure as she looked at her brother. This wasn��t very good, was it?

    But Gu Junming said, "Sun Chan had a hard life before, but she��s a good girl. I really want to be with her. Sister, will you support me?"

    Wang Shufenughed, "Of course. I think Sun Chan is quite good, you better treat her well."

    Since her brother was willing, she didn��t say much. Back in those days, after being driven out and divorced with her child, it was Gu Junming who went against everyone��s opinion and took the mother and son back to their family. Naturally, she wouldn��t make things difficult for him now.

    Ding Qiuyue, hiding her thoughts, warmly took Sun Chan��s hand: "Yes, this girl is sensible! My Miao Miao is an only child, spoiled by her father and me to be quite unruly. Though her father is the vige head, he��s quite meek at home. You must have helped a lot with the farm work at home; you look so grounded, I must let Miao Miao learn from you."

    The implied message was that your family had no prospects. No one would choose a girl with no manpower or money.

    Gu Junming said, "Yes, she indeed did a lot of work and suffered a lot. I must treat her well."

    Ding Qiuyue felt stifled��was this person pretending to be ignorant or genuinely clueless!

    Su Miao nced at Gu Junming, a ripple arising in her heart. Initially enamored by Gu Junming��s conditions, she now realized he truly was a good man. Handsome, with a father who was a chief, and so kind to others��a good husband indeed.

    If only I could marry him, how wonderful it would be! She resolved firmly in her heart to be with Gu Junming.

    Su Miao looked at Sun Chan; their appearances weren��t too different from each other. She asked, "I wonder what job you do?"

    Sun Chan smiled, "I work in the canteen of the sanatorium. Eighty a month, a hundred and twenty after bing regr staff, and if you work a few years, you can even get an apartment." Sun Chan wouldn��t typically divulge this to others, but she could clearly see the mother and daughter��s intentions, thus she openly shared it all.

    After hearing this, not only did Ding Qiuyue��s face darken, but so did Su Miao��s. Originally thinking she was just an orphan without a promising job, they hadn��t expected her to be quite capable, having such a good job. Didn��t this mean her daughter had no hope?

    As the mother and daughter duo were at a loss for words, urgent shouting sounded from outside, and everyone turned to look.

    An elderly couple hurriedly walked inside. The old man was at the front, although frail, he stood upright like someone who had served in the military. Despite his shabby clothes, he looked vigorous. The olddy followed him inside.

    Sun Chan remembered hearing about it before, that Gu Junming��s father was blind, but it seemed not to be entirely true��perhaps just some vision problems. Just then, the old man staggered, and Sun Chan quickly stepped up to support him.

    "Are you okay?"

    "I��m fine." The old man waved his hand, unable to see who was in front of him: "Is it Shufen?"

    "No, it��s not." Sun Chan felt a bit embarrassed, unsure how to introduce herself.

    Ding Qiuyue red at her daughter, and Su Miao quickly reacted, stepping forward to help support the old man as well.

    "Uncle, you��re back? Walking such a long way must have been exhausting?"

    "Is it the Su Miao girl?" The old man looked rather unwell initially, but recalling that Su Miao was the vige head��s daughter, he forced a smile.

    No one had spoken yet when suddenly someone rushed in from outside.

    "Dad, Mom, let me see Kangkang. He��s still my son; how could I not care?" A well-dressed man in his thirties walked in, tall and sturdy, with cunning glints in his small eyes. At the sight of him, Wang Shufen��s face turned ugly, and Gu Junming jumped up, exuding a murderous aura.

    Originally intending to introduce Sun Chan, who would have thought such a situation would ur, with his ex-brother-inwing to the door.

    The old man anddy were furious, standing at the door refusing to let him in, yet the man shamelessly forced his way in.

 Chapter 84: Want to Remarry

    <h4>Chapter 84: Chapter 84: Want to Remarry</h4>

    Gu Junming whispered to Sun Chan, "This Liu Qiang is a rogue. When he got divorced, it was very messy. We have to sort this out before I introduce you to them. Sorry about this."

    "It��s okay, you go ahead, don��t let your parents suffer a loss." Sun Chan gave Gu Junming a gentle push.

    The olddy angrily said, "What are you doing here? You were the one who said you didn��t want our Shufen, and when you got divorced, the child was having a fever. You wouldn��t care if you lived or died, not a dime was given, and now you��re back here talking like this? Do you really think our family is an easy target? That you can do anything you want?"

    "Mom, you can��t say that!" The man, despite getting a face full of spit, was still grinning. His skin was really thick!

    "Ugh, you shameless thing! And you dare to call me mom?" Wang Shufen gritted her teeth and said, "Leave now! Or I won��t be polite!"

    "Shufen, don��t be like this. Back then, when I insisted on a divorce, it was just out of spite. Who would��ve thought you would agree? I had to go through with it for the sake of face. I was just trying to scare you so you wouldn��t divorce me. Who knew you actually would? How could I bear to leave you?"

    The olddy spat right in the man��s face, "Ding Quan, we watched you grow up. Since when did you be so shameless? Divorce is not a joke! You nearly got your child killed, and you still have the nerve to talk! If you don��t get lost, I��ll beat you today!" She said this while rushing forward, grabbing his cor to hit him.

    The man didn��t dare push her away, and could only smile apologetically, calling Wang Shufen to help stop the fight, "I��m Kangkang��s dad, are you going to stand by and watch mom hit me?"

    Wang Shufen said nothing, searching for a shovel, her eyes red, looking ready to hit someone.

    Sun Chan and Gu Junming quickly held back Wang Shufen. In her heart, Sun Chan felt deeply moved. Wang Shufen, who was so honest, knew to awaken and divorce, while in her past life, she just endured the suffering. Perhaps others lived more happily.

    Seeing such a situation, Ding Qiuyue knew that today wasn��t the day to discuss matters with Gu Junming and didn��t want to stick around to cause difort. She quickly took her daughter and left without saying a word; she just nodded to Mrs. Wang.

    As they left, the man shot a nce at Su Miao, his eyes lighting up. This girl had grown more attractive these past few years. Su Miao felt an odd gaze, nced at the man, and lowered her head in disgust.

    But the man thought she was being shy and focused on today��s main issue without flirting.

    He steadied himself and turned to his ex-wife, "Shufen, let��s go back. You��ve been upset for years, it��s time we reconciled. My parents said as long as youe back, we��ll forget the past."

    Wang Shufen was trembling with anger, "Shut up! Who��s upset with you? Back then, how many improper women did you fool around with? You gambled and drank, engaged in all sorts of vices, sold everything in the house, even mortgaged the house, and now you have the nerve to ask me back? You��re not human! Dream on if you think I��lle back!"

    Even after so many years, the humiliation she and her son suffered at her inws�� was still vivid. Wang Shufen��s voice broke with tears.

    "Your parents said I and the child were bad luck, always trying to drive us out, not even giving us a bowl of rice. I endured silently, hoping you��d speak for us with your parents, but what did you do? Just cursed at me, saying I was disloyal and should divorce. Later, I found out you wanted to marry that young widow, kicking me and our sick son out! Now that the widow doesn��t want you, you��re back for me? You heartless bastard! Get out!"

    She reached out to push Ding Quan, who stumbled back, face embarrassed, not knowing what to say.

    "Calm down, it��s all in the past..."

    "Ugh! Past, you say? The things your Ding family did, we��ll never forget!" Mrs. Wang also furiously said, "Your family wants to move on, but what about us? Do you think we��re so easy to bully?"

    Ding Quan tried to cate her with a smile, "Mom, don��t be mad, I��m here to apologize. Please don��t be angry."

    "Who��s your mom! Get out now!"

    "Mom, I know you��re kind-hearted. Can you tell my brother-inw for me, that I sincerely regret..."

    "If you have something to say, say it directly. No need to go through others." Gu Junming walked over.

    Ding Quan got startled. He hadn��t expected his brother-inw to be visiting his inws today!

    Gu Junming��s eyes shed with a cold light, making Ding Quan shiver, and he forgot what he was about to say.

    He came today hoping to take Shufen back and remarry her. He thought the young widow was great��young, pretty, charming, and sweet-talking, unlike Wang Shufen, whom he saw as dull and unappealing. So he didn��t hesitate to kick her out.

    Recently, when buying clothes for the widow in town, he heard that Huang Shufen��s brother��s biological father was a high-ranking officer and supposedly wealthy, which made him regret his decision. How could such good family connections go unused?

    The widow was fine, but connecting with a high-ranking officer was a better deal. He told his parents, and the family was thrilled. They discussed and decided toe for Wang Shufen.

    Wang Shufen might not be much, but her brother was influential! If they could reconnect, imagine the benefits! Later, they could move to the city, get into politics, and there��d be plenty of young women around. The widow would be nothing inparison.

    So he came thick-skinned, not expecting Wang Shufen to refuse reconciliation and wanting him gone as soon as they met.

    "You can��t be heartless. A night together is a bond for life..."

    "Get out." Gu Junming��s tone was calm, but his eyes were chilling.

    The whole courtyard fell silent, and Ding Quan opened his mouth but didn��t dare speak a word. He instinctively wanted to run but knew it was futile; if he left now, there��d be no hope.

    Ding Quan gathered his courage and looked at Wang Shufen, "Mother of my child? You can��t just leave me like this. I truly regret it. You��re the only divorcee here, and everyone in the vige talks behind your back. If I reconcile with you, you can hold your head high again."

    After he said this, the Wang Family��s faces grew even darker. He was the one who insisted on divorce. Why didn��t he care about his wife��s reputation then? Now he ys the good guy?

 Chapter 85: Meet the Future Daughter-in-Law

    <h4>Chapter 85: Chapter 85: Meet the Future Daughter-in-Law</h4>

    "Leave it alone." Wang Shufen said coldly, "I��d rather bear this bad reputation for life, but I will never be with you again. I won��t marry you even if I die, get lost!"

    At this moment, the old man who had been silent suddenly went into the yard and grabbed a stool, forcefully smashing it over the man��s head, "I��ll kill you, you beast!"

    The man quickly dodged to the side, "Dad, please, please! I really have changed! Ouch! Dad, hit me more gently!"

    The old man��s attacks were strong, striking the man wildly. Soon, the man was bleeding from his nose and begged for mercy, but the old man showed no signs of stopping, "I��ve killed people on the battlefield, why would I fear a beast like you? What did I tell youst time? Divorce means severing ties, if you evere to my door again, I��ll kill you! Are you thinking we Wang family have no one, letting others bully us like this!"

    The man was utterly shocked; the old man usually appeared weak, but today he resembled a suddenly awakened fierce tiger. The man was beaten so badly he fled everywhere, inadvertently noticing Sun Chan standing in the corner, seemingly easy to use as a shield!

    Thus, Ding Quan didn��t even think before moving to hide behind Sun Chan. Gu Junming reacted quickly, pulling her close into his embrace.

    Sun Chan bumped into his sturdy shoulder, saw the guy trying toe over, so she quickly pretended to be unsteady, extended her leg and tripped him. That guy staggered and nearly went down to his knees; before he could stand up, something hit him hard on the back and he knelt on the ground, eating dirt.

    Before he could get up, the old man��s stool smashed down hard, "I��ll beat you to death, see if you dare to bully my Shufen again!"

    The man was struck down, lying on the ground crying out, "Stop hitting, Dad, I was wrong! Spare me, please!"

    "Who are you calling Dad! Get out, you aren��t even as good as a beast!" Father Wang hit even harder, while Mrs. Wang pulled him over, hitting and cursing at the same time. They only had one daughter; even though the family wasn��t well off, she was lovingly raised. The marriage with the Ding Family happened because the two grandfathers got along, but who knew the Ding Family was amiable on the surface but mean and harsh behind the scenes, bullying the weak and fearing the strong. Marrying their daughter into such a beast-like family almost killed her within a few years. Now, they have the nerve to want reconciliation?

    "You even knew to bring cakes when visiting a widow but what are you bringing whening to take your wife home? Since my daughter married you, did you ever buy her a piece of candy? Even back when Kangkang was born, it was our family who paid!"

    Ding Quan hurriedly said, "No, Mom, I��m sincere..."

    "Get out! Get out!"

    The elderly couple rushed to beat him, Ding Quan covered his head as he fled, and after a few blows, his bones seemed about to break. Limping, he walked out, still shouting as he looked back, "Wife, I will definitely bring you home, you and our son are my life!"

    One of the old man��s stools flew out, hitting his heel exactly, Ding Quan grunted, rolled twice on the ground, and then stood up without looking back, limping away.

    Once Ding Quan left, the old man squatted on the ground clutching his heart, coughing violently, with an expression of intense pain.

    Mrs. Wang and Wang Shufen quickly ran over to support him, "Are you alright?"

    Gu Junming said nothing, quickly went indoors, and soon returned with the medicine his father usually took. Sun Chan also scooped argedle of water from a big jar inside. The two helped the old man take the medicine.

    Mrs. Wang was breathing angrily, "I��ll go and cause a scene at the Ding familyter, let the whole vige know how shameless they are!"

    Wang Shufen buried her face and started crying, "Dad, it��s my fault, I��ve dragged down the maternal family!"

    "I��m fine; I don��t know why this beast insists on remarrying, and won��t give up. You should first bring the child back. It wouldn��t be good if the Ding family takes the child as a threat." Although the old man��s health was poor, his mind stayed clear, "Shufen, go and get Kangkang back, we have your mother here."

    Wang Shufen was briefly stunned, then she understood and answered. She wiped her tearful eyes and agreed before leaving. Worried about her grandson, Mrs. Wang instructed Gu Junming to take good care of them before leaving too.

    The yard was left with only three people, Sun Chan helped the old man sit down. Since her rtionship with Gu Junming hasn��t been discussed yet, she wasn��t sure how to address him.

    The old man, gasping for breath, looked at Sun Chan and squinted, "Isn��t this girl Su Miao? Howe you��ve gotten so skinny?"

    Sun Chan couldn��t help but smile.

    Gu Junming walked over and helped his father sit down, "This is my girlfriend, Sun Chan. I brought her back."

    "Ah... ah!" Father Wang first eximed in surprise, then smiled joyfully, "Really, you have a girlfriend? Let me see!" Without looking at her face, he raised Sun Chan��s hand and touched it, then let it go.

    "Good, good girl." From the calluses on her hands, he could see she was used to hard work, not azy wife.

    Gu Junmingughed, "Yes, she��s indeed very good. I brought her today to meet you. I��d like to have your approval on our engagement."

    "Great, great! Get married early and have children soon!"

    Sun Chan blushed, as she hadn��t yet reached the legal marriage age. Nheless, Gu Junming responded with a cheerful agreement.

    Father Wang asked about Sun Chan��s family situation and didn��t look down on her for being an orphan. Instead, he instructed Gu Junming to treat her well.

    "I don��t want her to end up like Shufen. You two must live harmoniously and happily."

    Sun Chan and Gu Junming agreed together.

    Just as the conversation went on, Wang Shufen and her mother returned dragging a small boy. He was dressed in a slightly worn sports outfit, skinny like dry wood, and his eyes were full of fear. That was Ding Quan and Wang Shufen��s son, Ding Kang.

    Wang Shufen pulled Ding Kang to greet them, "Say hello to your uncle, that��s your future aunt."

    Mrs. Wang smiled, "It was too rowdy earlier, didn��t get to greet you well. This girl is really pretty."

    Sun Chan blushed, realizing Wang Shufen had told her mother on the way.

    Wang Shufen pushed Ding Kang forward, but he timidly kept hiding behind his mother, too scared to speak.

    Sun Chan went over to greet him proactively, but he still wouldn��t speak, kept his head down, twisting his face in distress.

    Mrs. Wang sighed, "Isn��t it because he was beaten before? That entire family is beasts, pitying my daughter and grandson!" As she spoke, tears welled up in her eyes.

    Gu Junming persuaded, "Let it go, Mom, it��s all in the past. Now it depends on my sister��s decision; does she want to go back?"

 Chapter 86 Satisfaction

    <h4>Chapter 86: Chapter 86 Satisfaction</h4>

    Wang Shufen bit her lip and said, "I will never go back. Today is a good day for my brother to bring someone over, let��s not talk about this. Let��s entertain the guests properly!"

    Mrs. Wang quickly agreed, "I almost forgot about this. Today we should make something delicious. Do you need me to go to the little shop to buy some canned food? Didn��t Kangkang say he wanted some before? Also, should we buy a fish from Wang��s fishpond?"

    For the vigers, having a fish outside of holidays is the best treat. Conveniently, Wang��s fishpond is on the east side of the vige, making it easy to buy.

    Sun Chan wanted to stop her, but Gu Junming held her back, "It��s your parents�� goodwill. You should just ept it. Go help Mom pick some vegetables!"

    Sun Chan nodded, and the family cooperatively made the meal. Wang Shufen went to the shop to buy two cans of food, one with fruit and the other with luncheon meat, and also bought a fish back.

    Sun Chan and Mrs. Wang went to the vegetable garden; although small, it was well-maintained.

    The two women picked some bok choy, green beans, and also took out some pickled meat. Sun Chan helped Mrs. Wang make vegetable pancakes, and they prepared four or five dishes, plus a tomato and egg soup. Seeing Sun Chan cook properly, Mrs. Wang was very satisfied.

    This girl is really nice, diligent, and straightforward.

    But upon further thought, if her son could marry such a daughter-inw, it would naturally be good, but would the Gu Family agree? She started to worry for Sun Chan.

    Sun Chan looked sideways at Mrs. Wang, "What��s wrong, Auntie? You look unhappy. Did I do something wrong?"

    "No, let��s set the table and eat."

    With the food ready, everyone gathered around the table to eat. Ding Kang was very reserved at first but soon started eating heartily, almost choking a few times from eating too fast.

    Wang Shufen patted his back, "Eat slowly. There��s plenty!"

    Sun Chan nced at Gu Junming, noticing his bad mood. Though she was now well-off, her sister and parents still couldn��t have good things to eat. Reluctant to say anything directly, she held it in.

    Mrs. Wang, a bit embarrassed, exined, "The money Mingzi sent is a lot, but we��re saving it for his future wedding and dowry, so we didn��t spend it. Plus, there��s Kangkang��s expenses. Don��t worry, we eat well enough regrly."

    Even though he wasn��t her birth child, she had thought of these things in advance.

    Gu Junming smiled, "I��ll send an extra ten dors starting next month."

    "No need," Father Wang bluntly refused, "We are farming here and don��t have many expenses. Rest assured, we may be frugal, but not when ites to the children��s diet. We��ll make sure Kangkang eats well."

    Wang Shufen felt a bit embarrassed, feeling she was burdening her family.

    Sun Chan held her hand and gave aforting smile.

    Talking about saving for Gu Junming��s wedding, Sun Chan hurried to say she didn��t want a dowry.

    Wang Shufen said, "Sister-inw, you must be joking. How can we not have a dowry? People in the vige wouldugh at us. Just listen to Mom and Dad."

    Sun Chan felt shy, looking at Gu Junming. His eyes flickered, but he didn��t say anything.

    Mrs. Wang ced a piece of fish on Sun Chan��s te, "Eat, girl. Look at how thin you are."

    Sun Chan obliged, eating heartily, and naturally served dishes to Father Wang. His eyesight wasn��t good, so she took care of him while eating, even removing the fish bones.

    Father Wang was very satisfied with Sun Chan, finding her hardworking and considerate to elders, a good daughter-inw. He smiled, "When are you two getting married?"

    "Once Sun Chan turns twenty, we��ll get our marriage certificate," Gu Junming replied straightforwardly. This matter wasn��t discussed with Sun Chan before, making her ears slightly warm.

    "But the Gu Family side..."

    "They have no right to interfere with my affairs," Gu Junming said outright, "During my hardest times, they abandoned my mother and me, ignoring us. I lived with him for less than a year since birth, there��s no bond. He has a new wife and son, and no reason to manage me."

    Mrs. Wang looked worried, "But..."

    "Let it go," Father Wang said, "Gu Zishan, such a coward, isn��t qualified to meddle in your affairs. Besides, he did disgusting things in his own marriage, what right does he have to interfere with Mingzi��s matters!"

    Mrs. Wang, always obedient to her husband, said no more. Having heard some about Gu Junming��splicated background, Sun Chan listened to what he chose to share and didn��t pry, which Father Wang appreciated. She wouldn��t push her husband to acknowledge the capable father-inw, seeking benefits, showing her sensible side.

    Mrs. Wang smiled, "Actually, you don��t have to wait until twenty. In the vige, people often celebrate with a banquet first, then officially register when old enough, and start having children!"

    "Exactly, have the child first. It��s been years since we��ve had a celebration in the Wang Family," Father Wang said.

    Gu Junming smiled, "No rush, I want Sun Chan to do what she wants first. After marriage, she��ll have to handle children, losing some freedom. I hope she explores while she��s young."

    Sun Chan gratefully looked at Gu Junming, appreciating how understanding he was.

    "Then let��s get engaged first," Father Wang waved his hand, giving the two a directive. Everyone elseughed.

    "We came back for the engagement. Sun Chan doesn��t have parents, so we��ll keep it simple. Just in time to help Mom and Dad with the harvest."

    Father Wang nodded with a smile, "Alright, let��s invite the vige chief and a few Wang Family rtives for dinner tonight, and set this marriage."

    Sun Chan blushed and whispered to Gu Junming, "The old man really looks like a leader, very imposing."

    The smile faded on Gu Junming��s face, "You��re right, if it weren��t for some matters, he wouldn��t have returned to the vige. He was indeed a leader."

    Sun Chan looked at Gu Junming inquisitively, but seeing him say no more, she didn��t ask further.

    Father Wang, Mother Wang, and Wang Shufen kept a calm demeanor, as if they hadn��t heard, which was hard for the Wang Family to ept.

    Ding Kang was only focused on indulging himself, not caring about these things.

    Sun Chan gave him another piece of meat, to which Ding Kang grinned at her and continued eating.

    Father Wang said, "You took leave toe back, right? Once you��re done, head back to your main responsibilities."

    "The engagement is my main responsibility. Plus, with the autumn harvest, I need to help in the fields," Gu Jianming smiled.

    "Alright, I��ll just see if you haven��t forgotten how to farm. If you mess up, I��ll hit you," Father Wang chuckled.

    Everyoneughed.

    They had a pleasant meal, but the atmosphere at Su Miao��s wasn��t as good.

    Su Miao returned home, went straight to her small room,y down without a sound, and didn��t evene out to eat lunch.

 Chapter 87: Unwilling

    <h4>Chapter 87: Chapter 87: Unwilling</h4>

    Su Miao��s husband, Su Minjian, red at the small room with a gloomy face: "Whose grown daughter doesn��t work during the day, just lies around? Make her get up, otherwise she won��t find a husband."

    Which good young man would want such azy woman as a wife? Even being the vige head wouldn��t change that.

    Su Miao was already in a bad mood, and hearing her father talk about finding a husband made her feel even more wronged. She angrily swept everything off the kang onto the floor.

    Ding Qiuyue sighed: "The girl is not feeling well, let her lie down."

    "What��s wrong? Is someone bullying our daughter? Or is she sick?" Although Su Minjian was very dissatisfied with his daughter��sziness, he cared deeply, and quickly asked his wife when something seemed off.

    Ding Qiuyue said: "Isn��t it just about finding her a match? I was considering letting her marry Gu Junming, but who knew? He quietly brought back a fianc��e. If she were a city woman with good conditions, we would ept it. But her conditions are worse than our Su Miao��s; can she take that lying down?"

    After hearing Ding Qiuyue��s words, Su Minjian snorted: "You really have long hair and short knowledge. What is so great about Gu Junming? He��s just a soldier. What benefits can he bring you?"

    Ding Qiuyue said: "It��s said that his father��s a chief! If our daughter marries him, she��ll be well off."

    "Forget it!" Tian Minjian waved his hand: "If he were really the son of a chief sent here to foster, why does the family never visit? And if Gu Junming��s father is so capable, howe he��s still only apanymander?"

    The news of Gu Junming��s promotion hadn��t been spread yet, and Gu Junming hadn��t told his parents, so they didn��t know.

    Ding Qiuyue pondered and then said: "Could it be boasting?"

    "That��s not necessarily true, but Gu Junming��s mother is dead, and his old man can��t possibly stay alone forever. I think Gu Junming��s situation is not good."

    With that, Ding Qiuyue understood. Gu Junming isn��t favored; his family must neglect him, prefer the younger son, and Gu Junming has to rely on himself. Will our girl have good days if she marries over? She better be lucky. So Ding Qiuyue doesn��t think favorably of this either.

    Su Minjian struck a match to light a cigarette: "I��ll find a good match for our girl, guaranteed she��ll not suffer. The cattle farmer from the front vige, the Liu Family, looks good to me. Their youngest son is smart, their family conditions are good, our girl marries over, she��ll manage the house, live in abundance."

    Ding Qiuyue took a nce at her daughter��s room: "Still a farmer?"

    "What��s wrong with a farmer? There��s food, drink, and money to be made, no mother-inw above, enviable to many!"

    "That works too. The girl��s grown up, resolving it early is good for us, saves us worry."

    The couple thought of the best future for their daughter, unaware that Su Miao was already infuriated.

    She came out of her room wearing shoes with a grim face. Without saying a word, she hurried outside.

    Ding Qiuyue called out several times, but Su Miao didn��t respond. Ding Qiuyue grabbed her: "Where are you going?"

    "I just want to marry Gu Junming, I won��t marry anyone else! If you force me, I can only die."

    "Are you crazy? He��s already brought his match!"

    "So what? What are her conditions? I can lose to anyone, but losing to her, I��m not willing! I will surely marry Gu Junming. I��m going to confess to him!"

    Ding Qiuyue urgently held her daughter: "What nonsense are you doing? Gu Junming��s family conditions are just so-so, listen to your father, he��s crossed more bridges than you��ve walked roads, be sensible..."

    Su Miao didn��t speak, she wasn��t with Gu Junming for the conditions, his personality was great, she should have acted first, she felt dissatisfied, believing if given a chance, she would surely win Gu Junming back.

    The three were caught up in the turmoil when a green shadow appeared at their door, none other than Gu Junming. Seeing hime in, Su Miao��s family of three froze.

    Ding Qiuyue was the first to react, quickly walked over smiling: "Why are you here, Mingzi,ing to see our Miao Miao?"

    Su Miao nced at Gu Junming, her heart raced, did he change his mind?

    Gu Junming said to Su Minjian: "Tonight, I��m getting engaged to Sun Chan, can the vige heade over?"

    Su Minjian was startled: "Getting engaged tonight?"

    "Yes, the vige head should have a drink with me, I��ll go buy some wine now."

    "Okay... sure, congrattions." He patted Gu Junming on the shoulder, his daughter had no chance now.

    Gu Junming finished speaking and turned to leave.

    Ding Qiuyue sighed, turned back to see the vicious look in her daughter��s eyes, and was startled. Miao Miao had never been like this, rather frightening.

    Su Miao sneered coldly, returned to her room, unwilling to lose Gu Junming. She refused to spend her life in a vige, marry a farmer, and tend crops. She wanted to enjoy city life.

    Su Miao thought, even if they were engaged, so what? There��s still divorce after marriage! Even if there��s no way to be with him, she must establish herself in the city, and her asset was having saved Mrs. Wang��s son��s life.

    Huang Shufen divorced, Gu Junming��s real father did too, sooner orter these two would split.

    That night the vige was lively, though Gu Junming��s family didn��t invite many people, vigers soon knew the Wang��s son was engaged, the match a vige girl.

    Everyone talked openly, thinking Gu Junming had been deceived, otherwise, with such good conditions, finding someone in the city exceeded this, right? Why this urgency to marry, was something up?

    Many women secretly looked at Sun Chan��s belly, unaware that Sun Chan was cheerfully greeting people.

    Still, it seemed decent enough; some brought food, fabric, indicating congrattions, Mrs. Wang epted them with a smile.

    Sun Chan didn��t want an engagement gift, just dinner. She had long seen through these superficial formalities.

    Wang Shufen and her mother cooked fish, stewed meat, also made homemade noodles, Ding Kang was excited, spinning around his mother wanting to eat delicious things.

    The vige head and a few close rtives came for dinner. The marriage was settled.

    Mrs. Wang and the women set their own table, before the meal, she took a silver bracelet from her wrist and handed it to Sun Chan, a bit thin, the color faded, but still the elder��s sentiment.

    "This is for you, pass it down to your daughter in the future."

    Sun Chan quickly took it, put it directly on her hand.

    Mrs. Wang was satisfied: "Good child, let Mingzi buy you gold in the future."

 Chapter 88: Using Favor for Personal Gain

    <h4>Chapter 88: Chapter 88: Using Favor for Personal Gain</h4><h4></h4>

    Wang Shufen also joked yfully, filling the room with a joyous atmosphere.

    During the meal, Su Miao came over, staying very calm, and even smiled as she congratted everyone, not showing any hint of displeasure. Later, she left with her father.

    Sun Chan also felt it was a bit strange, but didn��t think much of it. After all, she would be leaving the vige soon. What kind of tricks could she y?

    At night, when it was time to sleep, Sun Chan was arranged to stay in the small house in the western side courtyard. Since they were only engaged, living together wasn��t appropriate.

    The small house was a bit damp from not being used by anyone, so Mrs. Wang brought a lot of firewood to burn outside.

    Wang Shufen helped by wiping with a cloth for a long time. She said apologetically, "I originally wanted you to sleep in my room, but my son fell asleep, and it��s not easy to wake him up. This ce is more spacious."

    "It��s okay, I can sleep here. It��s quite spacious," Sun Chan said with a smile as she smoothed the bedsheet, which was the mostmon red and white checkered pattern with a few patches, just like back home.

    Gu Junming came over with a new quilt.

    Sun Chan quickly took it andid it on the kang. The two of them looked at each other happily.

    Wang Shufen pursed her lips and smiled, walking out.

    Sun Chan and Gu Junming finished making the bed on the kang together. She looked around, at the mottled walls, the cab in the corner, the single dim yellow bulb on the ceiling, sitting on the edge of the kang, with a slightly nk expression.

    "What are you thinking about?" Gu Junming asked while wiping the dust with a cloth. It wasn��t actually that dirty; he just felt uneasy doing nothing.

    Sun Chan smiled and said, "The house I lived in before had the sameyout. The walls were also covered with newspapers, even the window color was the same, but there wasn��t a bulb in the room, and the kang mats were worn out."

    "You lived too hard in the past," Gu Junming said in a low voice, standing in front of her: "I��ve always been thinking, maybe one day, I could bring the girl I love to see where I live and tell her, this is where I live. This wish has finallye true."

    Sun Chan looked up and could see his handsome face; he was very close. Silence engulfed them, and each could hear the other��s breathing and feel the intense gazes. She suddenly became flustered and lowered her head.

    Luckily, Gu Junming just stood there briefly and then said with a smile, "You should sleep, we��ll talk tomorrow."

    "Okay." Sun Chan��s face turned red as she saw Gu Junming off, feeling all flustered inside.

    Gu Junming also felt a little awkward earlier, but figured that since they��d eventually be married, looking wasn��t a crime and calmed down. The vige night was quiet, with only a few dog barks. His parents�� room had also turned off the lights. As Gu Junming prepared to return to his room, he suddenly heard a rustling sound near the main gate.

    Though it was very quiet, Gu Junming, being a former scout, immediately asked warily, "Who��s there?"

    His first reaction was that Ding Quan had returned, instinctively raising his fists, ready to rush over and hit someone.

    "Don��t hit, big brother. It��s me!" came the delicate voice of Su Miao from behind.

    She looked anxious; under the moonlight, dressed in a floral shirt, Su Miao looked particrly charming and graceful. She looked at Gu Junming with timid eyes, brimming with watery light, truly a delicate flower mirrored on water, evoking pity.

    Su Miao was quite confident in her appearance, thinking she couldn��t fail to attract him.

    But Gu Junming didn��t notice her looks at all and frowned, "Didn��t you leave with your father? Why did youe back?"

    "I just want to ask you, are you really going to marry her? She��s an orphan, with no father or mother. In the vige, that��s practically considered a widow. People may not even want to marry her home, yet you are willing to marry her? Is she really that great? She��s not even as good as me!"

    She was pretty, from a good family, and even went to junior high, so how could she notpare to Sun Chan?

    Su Miao stepped forward, firmly saying, "Do you feel sorry for her? You don��t necessarily have to sacrifice your whole life, do you?"

    "What exactly do you want to say?" Gu Junming stifled his urge to p her: "Sun Chan is great. We have a lot inmon and we will definitely marry. It��ste, better go back, otherwise being seen won��t be good for your reputation."

    He turned and left.

    Seeing Gu Junming��s back, Su Miao couldn��t hold back any longer, she hugged Gu Junming��s waist from behind. Who knew he would forcefully shake her off, causing Su Miao to stumble from the strong impact.

    Gu Junming��s eyes were full of coldness: "What are you doing?"

    Su Miao was so aggrieved she almost cried. The most sought-after flower of ten miles, pursued by countless suitors, yet Gu Junming alone treated her this way. She had humbled herself to this extent, and he still wouldn��t ept her. How could she not feel cold?

    "I like you so much..."

    "Stop saying that," Gu Junming said coldly, "I��m already engaged. Just take care of yourself. I won��t tell anyone about this. We live in the same vige, and I wouldn��t say anything unpleasant. Respect yourself."

    "But I��m not reconciled..."

    "Su Miao, as long as I shout loudly, all the neighbors will wake up, and by then your face will be gone. Do you not want to get married in your lifetime?"

    Su Miao bit her lip, thought for a moment, then made up her mind: "Before I leave, I want to say something important."

    Gu Junming didn��t speak but didn��t rush her away either.

    "No matter what, I once saved your nephew��s life. Doesn��t your Wang Family owe me a favor?"

    Gu Junming frowned slightly, not knowing what she was up to, but what she said was true, so he nodded and said, "And so?"

    "I want you to find me a good job in the city," Su Miao said seriously, "Don��t worry, I don��t want something too good, just enough to make a living, as a way for your Wang Family to repay my favor. Actually, when I saved him that year, my dad said to have you engaged to me. Under those circumstances, your father probably would have agreed, right? But I thought we��d take it slow, now that you don��t like me and are with someone else. Since that��s how it is, I��m not forcing it. If you repay this favor, then we won��t have any ties in the future."

    Gu Junming felt this woman was trying to use her favor for benefits, but she had indeed saved his nephew, so it wasn��t unreasonable for her to ask for a reward, and he agreed.

    "Alright, but jobs in the city aren��t easy to find, at best it might just be a temporary job," Gu Junming couldn��t guarantee.

    "It��s okay! I��ll work hard," Su Miao responded. As long as there��s a chance, she will cling to a man to climb up, even if it can��t be Gu Junming, she can find a man of good standing. Considering her ability and looks, staying in the vige as a farmer��s wife was really beneath her. How could the vigers possibly be good enough for her?

 Chapter 89 Deep Affection

    <h4>Chapter 89: Chapter 89 Deep Affection</h4><h4></h4>

    Gu Junming frowned and thought for a moment, then said, "Alright, I��ll think of a way to help you. I��ll send you a message when the timees."

    "I want to go with you. Although my family is not wealthy, we have some savings, and we have a rtive in the city. Staying for a few months shouldn��t be too difficult. Just let me know when you leave, and I��ll follow you. Or are you worried that if we��re together all the time, you��ll be enchanted by me?" She didn��t wait for Gu Junming��s reply before turning around and leaving.

    Joking aside, waiting around could mean waiting ten years or more with no answer, and Su Miao didn��t believe him.

    Watching her walk away, Gu Junming couldn��t help but feel disgusted. In his impression, the vige girls were all nice. Who knew there would be someone so selfish and shameless.

    Although the matter with this woman wasn��t exactly troublesome, her recent actions made him very ufortable.

    As he was thinking, he looked up and saw Sun Chan standing at the door, watching him with a faint smile.

    Gu Junming quickly walked over: "You heard everything? Su Miao doesn��t want anything with me; she just wants a chance to get into the city."

    Sun Chan smiled and said, "I know, I��m not angry."

    She had justid on the kang bed when she heard themotion outside. She quickly came out to see Su Miao there, immediately alert, but after listening to their conversation, she was relieved.

    If Gu Junming was interested in someone like Su Miao, there��d be no need for her to be with him anymore.

    Gu Junming said, "My family does owe her a favor, which should be repaid."

    "I understand. I don��t like owing favors either," Sun Chan smiled.

    "Since we��re settling the matters of Sun Lijuan and Su Miao this time, why not add your name to the mix? After all, we owe people one favor already," Gu Junming thought it wouldn��t be right not to help Sun Chan find a job.

    But Sun Chan refused: "Forget it, for those two, even if there��s a bit of backdoor, they do have some education. Strictly speaking, it��s not excessive. But I don��t even have an elementary school diploma. If someone catches wind of this, it would be terrible. Don��t worry about me. I can work and survive on my own."

    Gu Junming was moved and held her hand: "Thank you for understanding me."

    Sun Chan��s ears turned red, making Gu Junming feel a warmth in his heart, and he held her hand a bit tighter.

    "Sun Chan... little girl..."

    Feeling flustered, Sun Chan shyly pushed him away and quickly returned to her own room.

    She looked at the moonlight outside, thinking about the things that had happened in the past few days. No matter if it was herself, Wang Dan, Sun Lijuan, or Su Miao, these vige girls all wanted to go to the city. But living in the city wasn��t easy.

    With only a little savings now, the future was really uncertain, and she too wanted to be someone in the city. But she didn��t want to rely on Gu Junming, so she felt uneasy. Plus, the kang bed was very warm, making her think about what kind of business to start. She tossed and turned until thetter half of the night before she finally fell asleep.

    She wasn��t the only one who had an uneasy night. Su Miao also felt embarrassed after being tly rejected today.

    After learning about her ns, Ding Qiuyue said nothing. It��s natural for people to want to move to the city. Besides, Gu Junming did owe her a favor.

    But her father, Su Minjian, disagreed with her going to the city: "I��m the vige chief. No matter who you marry, I can look after you. But what can you do in the city? All these years, you��ve rarely even washed a bowl!"

    Su Miao argued defiantly, "Is it wrong for me to want to be like my aunt and live in the city?"

    "But your aunt has an education."

    "I went to middle school too, Dad. I��m not convinced. Why should I marry some country boy and live my whole life like that?"

    Ding Qiuyue also tried to persuade, so Su Minjian said reluctantly, "Fine, but I��ll only give you three months. If you can��t find a stable job, you��lle back and marry. You��ll be twenty-one after this year, and if you keep dying, you really won��t be able to get married! You think you��re a big deal, but it��s your mom who��s reluctant to let you marry. Keeping you at home is bing a grudge!"

    Su Miao grudgingly agreed, determined to make it big in the city and prove her worth to everyone who looked down on her. With such thoughts, she drifted off to sleep.

    Early the next morning, Sun Chan got up to help Wang Shufen with breakfast.

    The flour at home was running low, so Sun Chan mixed it with cornmeal and sorghum flour to make bread. She cooked some eggs in the big pot for the elders and children, along with leftovers fromst night, making for a hearty breakfast.

    When breakfast was ready, Gu Junming returned with severalrge bundles of firewood. It would be enough tost them for quite a while.

    Everyone gathered around the table. Father Wang took a bite of the bread first, and only then did everyone else start eating.

    Sun Chan was quite nervous��what if it didn��t taste good? When she looked up and saw Gu Junming smiling, she bashfully lowered her head again.

    Father Wang then said, "You two eat up and then be on your way. We only have a little over an acre ofnd. We can manage it ourselves."

    Gu Junming smiled and said, "Dad, since there��s not much work, leave it all to me. Trust your own son; I won��t tire myself out."

    Everyoneughed.

    Gu Junming then mentioned Su Miao��s desire to move to the city: "Once I handle this, our debt to them will be repaid. Her father is the vige chief. If we help her, there should be no problem with any big or small matters in the vige."

    "As long as it doesn��t trouble you," Father Wang said indifferently.

    Wang Shufen felt a little embarrassed: "It��s all our fault. If it weren��t for Kangkang, we wouldn��t have put you in this difficult position."

    "It��s nothing. We��re family, no need for formalities."

    Mrs. Wang, however, had many concerns: "If something happens to her, if she meets bad people in the city and learns bad things, the Su family won��t forgive us..."

    "I��m thinking of getting her a job at a kindergarten. There she��ll meet fewer people. If she still manages to go astray there, it would be her ownck of moral integrity," Gu Junming said, considering the issue.

    He could tell that Su Miao was no easy character and didn��t want her having too many opportunities to interact with people.

    Mrs. Wang nodded in agreement, and the matter was settled.

    After breakfast, everyone went out to work. This area was alkaline soil, which didn��t yield good harvests, but the Wang Family still nted a small plot of rice. Sun Chan was an experienced farmhand, working meticulously, and soon had arge section of rice cut and piled by the field. Father Wang and Mrs. Wang borrowed a cart to take the rice to the vigemittee for processing.

    Seeing Sun Chan working so hard, barely straightening her back, Gu Junming felt a pang in his heart and went over to take the sickle from her hand.

 Chapter 90: Seeking Refuge

    <h4>Chapter 90: Chapter 90: Seeking Refuge</h4><h4></h4>

    "You take a break first, I can handle it."

    "It��s alright, I can do it." Sun Chan took a deep breath and smiled sweetly. She really didn��t mind doing so much work; it was much easier than her previous life. She picked up his military water bottle, took severalrge gulps, and then handed it to Gu Junming.

    Gu Junming didn��t take it. Instead, he grabbed her hand and said, "Let me do it, you��re not our familyborer. It��s too tiring for you!"

    Seeing her bright smile, her cheeks slightly red from the sun, and the beads of sweat on her nose, he couldn��t help but lower his head and kiss her forehead. Sun Chan was stunned, then saw Gu Junming turn around to harvest the rice. Upon closer inspection, his ears were red.

    Sun Chan looked at him for a few seconds, then pursed her lips and started tough.

    After the two finished their work, they went back to eat a simple meal before taking a viger��s bumpy car to leave. Gu Junming��s leave was up, and he had to head back quickly.

    Father Wang just said a few words telling him to be a good soldier, standing by the roadside with his hands behind his back, looking very serious. Yet Mrs. Wang seemed a bit reluctant, handing the boiled eggs left over from the morning to Gu Junming. She turned her back to her son, fighting tears. Wang Shufen and Ding Kang also stood at the side to see him off.

    Gu Junming shouted loudly, "I��ll be back for the New Year, Mom, don��t worry!"

    "Alright, I got it, go back and treat the girl well!" Father Wang waved his hand, watching the vehicle go farther and farther.

    Su Miao��s house was at the vige entrance, so the vehicle went past the Tian Family first.

    There was no need for Gu Junming to find her; Su Miao was waiting at the door herself.

    She was wearing a white jacket, woolen pants below, and ck leather shoes, the attire only city folks had. Her hair wasn��t braided but tied in a ponytail like Sun Chan��s.

    She actually looked down on Sun Chan, but admittedly, tying her hair like that looked quite nice, so she followed suit.

    Su Miao was holding a small bundle and, without saying much, threw it onto the bumpy car, then smiled and extended her hand to Gu Junming.

    "Big brother. Sorry to trouble you."

    Before Gu Junming could say anything, Sun Chan quickly went over, grabbed her wrist, and pulled her up: "Be careful, don��t bump into the car."

    Su Miao was unhappy inside. She intended for Gu Junming to hold her onto the car; what are you getting in the way for? So stingy!

    Her eyes rolled, and she deliberately scratched her nails against Sun Chan��s wrist with force, nning to scratch her first and say it wasn��t intentionalter. They couldn��t possibly argue with her over this matter.

    Sun Chan saw her fingers turning a direction and knew she was up to no good. When she exerted force, Sun Chan suddenly pulled her hand back, dodging her nail attack, and in return, grabbed Su Miao��s wrist.

    Su Miao��s force missed its target, and her whole shoulder banged against the side of the car, hurting so much she was in tears.

    Sun Chan hurriedly said, "What happened? Did you zone out? Be careful, okay? Let��s try again, I��ll grab you up."

    Gu Junming said, "Let me help you!"

    "No need, it��s just Su Miao��s hand slipping." Sun Chan smiled and said, "Come on, Su Miao. Get up, make sure to hold on tight this time."

    Su Miao cursed numerous profanities in her heart, but she dared not act up further and obediently held onto her hand to get on the car.

    This girl was not as easy to bully as she appeared on the surface. She looked like a littlemb but could bite you when you��re not expecting it. But she couldn��t mention this to Gu Junming, otherwise, if it made a scene, they would know she started causing trouble first; she could only swallow her pride in silence.

    Gu Junming and Sun Chan sat in the corner of the car, whispering andughing. Su Miao sat to the side, her expression calm, who knows what she was thinking.

    Gu Junming nced at Su Miao and whispered to Sun Chan, "You really surprised me just now. What if something had happened, what would you do?"

    "You noticed?" Sun Chan stuck out her tongue.

    "With your personality, I��m relieved. Because I��m often at the barracks, sometimes I may not be able to be with you. So you��ll have to handle some things on your own; you��re so smart, I knew you��d never suffer a loss."

    Sun Chanughed, "Although sometimes I can handle things myself, I still hope, at crucial moments, you��ll be by my side."

    Gu Junming nodded, "Okay, I promise you."

    Su Miao on the side, although she didn��t know what they were saying, seeing the twoughing so happily made her even more annoyed, so she simply turned her head away and ignored it.

    The car arrived in the city by dusk. They got off the car, and Su Miao smiled and said, "Are you two staying here?"

    "We are going to X City; where are your rtives here? I can take you there."

    Su Miao smiled, "Yeah, it��s my aunt��s house; both my aunt and uncle work at the power bureau, they had asked me over before. Could I trouble you to take me to that neighborhood?" She naturally handed her bundle to Gu Junming as she said this, ncing at Sun Chan.

    This time I��ll see if you can snatch it away; it��s heavy, you can carry it if you want.

    Gu Junming, without saying much, took the bundle: "I��ll take you there."

    Holding the bundle in one hand, he took Sun Chan��s hand and walked forward. Although Su Miao sessfully got Gu Junming to carry the bundle, she still couldn��t gain any advantage and felt her chest tighten again.

    Su Miao��s aunt��s house was nearby, with arge security room. Su Miao stood at the door, somewhat proudly pointing to a lit room not far away: "My aunt��s house is on that second floor."

    Back then, living in an apartment building was rare, especially in a good neighborhood like her uncle��s family. When her aunt married into such a family, it caused quite a stir in the vige.

    That��s why having an aunt as an example made Su Miao even more confident she could stay in the city.

    Gu Junming looked at the building, raised an eyebrow without saying much, and put the luggage aside.

    "Can you go up by yourself?"

    "Aren��t youing up to have a look? My uncle loves soldiers. He��d be thrilled to see you," Su Miao smiled.

    Gu Junming declined, saying to her, "I need to go back. I��ll call someone I know about your job tomorrow, once it��s arranged, I��lle find you."

    "Who are you asking for help? Is it an official? Can I meet them? Don��t worry, I won��t make any unreasonable requests. I��m just purely curious," Su Miao��s eyes sparkled, a look of anticipation on her face.

    Gu Junming nced at her and pretended not to hear, then turned and left.

    Su Miao shrugged, scared I��d know your connections, huh? Stingy! She went straight to the security room.

    The old guard over there eyed Su Miao, then made a call to her aunt��s house.

    Su Miao was initially a bit confident; she thought her clothes were better than Sun Chan��s. But seeing the old guard��s disdainful look, she suddenly felt unsure, wondering if she still looked so rustic?

 Chapter 91 Some Helplessness

    <h4>Chapter 91: Chapter 91 Some Helplessness</h4><h4></h4>

    She bit her lip and stood up straight, looking at the lights of the various buildings outside the window. I will establish myself in this city,

    Sun Chan walked a few steps, turned back to Gu Junming, and said, "I think this Su Miao will be quite troublesome. She has high ambitions but not much capability."

    "You��re right, and she��s also hypocritical and cunning." Gu Junming continued his stride.

    Sun Chan couldn��t help butugh, "Earlier, when you found out the location of her uncle��s home, you seemed to recall something. Are you acquainted?"

    "Sort of, my brother lives opposite this family. He��s quite a clueless guy, but he seems to have improved recently. It��s toote today, not convenient; I��ll introduce you another day."

    "Why didn��t your brother join the army?"

    Gu Junming thought for a moment and then smiled, "That��s a good idea. Maybe I��ll have him attend a training camp to instill some sense into him."

    Sun Chan nodded, and the two of them hurriedly bought tickets and headed back to X City.

    Meanwhile, Han Dong just finished bathing and sneezed as he came out of the bathroom, rubbing his nose, "What��s going on? Is someone bad-mouthing me behind my back?"

    Han��s mother, Tian Jinhua, was reading a medical magazine and looked up, "With all the trouble you��ve caused, it��s a wonder you��re not being cursed at." The woman in her forties had an intellectual aura.

    "Mom! I��m not the same as before. I��ve been diligently working in business; you��re just biased!"

    Han��s father, Han Jinshan, also came over, tall with sharp eyes, "Are you going to X City tomorrow?"

    "Yes, I��m going to meet someone." Han Dong stretchedzily and thought of Sun Chan.

    Over the years, enduring hardships down south, experiencing suffering like never before, his body had thinned considerably. Fortunately, he shipped the fruits back and made a significant profit. He eagerly wanted someone to share his happiness.

    The little girl, does she wonder about me?

    Han Jinshan frowned, "Just back from the south, and instead of resting at home, you��re looking to bother some girl again?"

    Han Dong dried his hair with a damp towel, "I��m not bothering anyone! I��m pursuing. I truly like her! Don��t doubt it, this time I genuinely want to find you a daughter-inw."

    Han Jinshan and Tian Jinhua exchanged looks and shook their heads. This troublesome child had been causing mischief since his teens, asionally dating various girls dramatically, which then inevitably faded away. His words had long lost credibility.

    Han Jinshan said, "If you could be like Gu Junming, would we still need to worry?"

    "Exactly, if we had sent you to the military, all these troubles wouldn��t exist."

    "Dad, Mom! I��m serious this time. My brother is great, but I also..."

    Thud! Han Dong shrank his neck as intense door banging startled him.

    Immediately, the sound of a couple��s argument echoed in the hallway. They were surprised; the Zhao Family opposite had always been quiet. How could such amotion arise?

    Outside were Su Miao��s aunt, Su Jinxiu, and uncle, Zhao Yingjun, both watching TV at home when they received a call saying Sun Jinxiu��s niece from the vige had arrived and was waiting at the gate.

    At the time, Zhao Yingjun��s face looked unpleasant, "Whye seeking refuge without prior notice? Is this some act-before-informing tactic? Really treating us insignificantly?"

    Su Jinxiu said, "Perhaps something happened at home. I��ll ask her. Don��t be hasty." She married this man above her station, a vige girl marrying a city cadre��s child, causing envy among many, but only she knew the true nature of it.

    "What could be the matter? Vige life involves farming, eating, and sleeping. Wasn��t I clear with you? Don��t provide them our address unnecessarily. You didn��t listen; look where that got you now? My mom always said not to marry someone from the vige. I have no idea what possessed me to marry you. If vige folkse leeching every few days, how would I endure it?"

    Pregnant, Sun Jinxiu listened to her husband��s biting words, suppressing her irritation to cate Zhao Yingjun, "I��ll see what she��s up to. If it��s not urgent, I��ll ask her to return. Don��t be angry."

    "It��ste now. Forcing your niece out would only lead to gossip about us! Fine, you enjoy with your dear niece; I��m not participating." Zhao Yingjun said while grabbing his clothes, heading out.

    "Where are you going?"

    "Back to the unit dormitory! Seriously annoying, I can��t tell if this ce belongs to the Sus or the Zhaos, having to make room for your family!"

    Su Jinxiu got angry too, arguing with him in the hallway, "How many have you invited over? Today��s your schoolmates, tomorrow your cousins. I��m heavily pregnant yet cooking and cleaning for them. My niecees for the first time, you haven��t even met her, and you��re already using her of mooching off us? Why not talk about your kin?"

    "What��s wrong with my family? They��re all cultured!"

    "Cultured?" Su Jinxiu sneered, "When your money went missingst time, wasn��t it after they came? Every time they visit, our rice and oil are halved, don��t think I don��t know? I might be from the vige, but I��m not penniless for you to look down upon! If you��re capable, don��t marry me!"

    Zhao Yingjun nearly blurted out, marrying you willingly was thest thing I wanted! But he swallowed it back.

    Their age gap was significant; he was with Su Jinxiu while his wife was deathly ill, having a scandalous affair and getting her pregnant.

    His wife conveniently passed away, and Su Jinxiu caused a huge fuss to enter the household. If they made a spectacle, he��d be the one embarrassed.

    Their argument continued in the hallway, Zhao Yingjun worried about being overheard, grabbed his wife, but Su Jinxiu, fuming, didn��t lower her voice, "If you can��t stand me, I��ll leave, sparing you the sight!"

    "Stop arguing!"

    Tian Jinhua wanted to intervene, "She��s heavily pregnant, after all. Don��t make a scene unless something bad happens. Han Dong, go take a look."

    Han Jinshan said, "Forget it, it��s nothing major. If Zhao Yingjun realizes we heard him, he��ll be difficult to deal withter."

    Han Dong naturally wouldn��t meddle, heading to his room to pack his belongings, ready to see Sun Chan tomorrow.

    Before long the couple left, and the hallway returned to peace.

    Zhao Yingjun intended to leave but became frozen upon seeing Su Miao. The girl was exceptionally attractive, nothing like someone from the vige. Su Jinxiu sensed Zhao Yingjun��s stare, and her heart sank.

 Chapter 92 Preparing to Resign

    <h4>Chapter 92: Chapter 92 Preparing to Resign</h4><h4></h4>

    Su Jinxiu is well aware of who Zhao Yingjun really is. After all, she was never quite the upright person in their rtionship. Now, seeing the way her husband looks at a young girl, Su Jinxiu��s heart clenches tightly.

    She doesn��t let it show for now, and with one hand holding her waist, she walks over with a smile: "You��re here, Miao Miao."

    Su Miao goes up to greet them: "Auntie, Uncle! Dad and mom asked me toe and check on you both. Is this a bad time?"

    "Not at all,e on in and let��s talk," Zhao Yingjun squints his eyes, the crow��s feet at the corners showing clearly.

    Su Miao was worried her uninvited arrival might be unwee, but seeing Uncle wasn��t angry at all, she finally felt relieved.

    He even took her luggage himself, earning her genuine gratitude.

    "Sorry for the trouble, Uncle."

    Zhao Yingjunughs, "Aren��t you starving? How about trying your uncle��s cookingter? I��ll make you some wontons!"

    "Great, thank you, Uncle!" Su Miao knows whether she can stay depends on Zhao Yingjun, so she ttered him meticulously, making himugh heartily.

    Su Jinxiu walks by the side, seeing how Su Miao knows only to fawn over her uncle and doesn��t even ask about her condition despite herrge belly, she is fuming inside, fists clenched tight under her sleeves, but in the end, she says nothing.

    While the currents are raging silently in the Su family, over at the Gu Family, the atmosphere isn��t much better.

    Gu Zishan was very upset. In the afternoon, one of his former subordinates came by with some documents, telling him that he had seen Gu Junming in the city, only then learning that his son had taken leave to return to the vige.

    Gu Zishan had made it very clear to him, he wasn��t allowed to see his foster parents. He could send money but to avoid contact, yet clearly, his son took his words as mere background noise!

    Just the thought of his foster father in the vige made Gu Zishan��s heart tighten. He must be very smug now, having taken his son away...

    Wang Guihua ced a cup of tea on the table: "You don��t have to be angry, maybe he was busy with work and had to go back. After all, his foster parents did raise him all those years. Not going back when somethinges up just isn��t right either."

    "If he has no regard for me, why should I care? He can do whatever he wants, I don��t care at all!" Gu Zishan said he didn��t care, yet he smashed the teacup on the side, spilling water all over the table.

    Seeing the old man was almost simmered down, Wang Guihua smiled: "Don��t forget, you still have another son, you worry too much about Juntao��s marriage. You should reconnect with your old colleagues and see which family has a suitable girl for our Juntao. He��s been the least of your worries, always obedient, he��s been with us since childhood."

    Gu Zishan nodded, now that there��s no hope for Gu Junming, the second son is indeed quite promising.

    Wang Guihua wasn��t just looking for a daughter-inw from a good family, but also nning for her son��s future. She was determined to make Gu Juntao the pride of the Gu Family, showing everyone that the best son of the Gu Family is Gu Juntao, not Gu Junming.

    Sun Chan and Gu Junming were at the entrance of the sanatorium, getting ready to say goodbye.

    They arrived in X City, and when they were in the city center, Gu Junming bought her a few sets of clothes, which Sun Chan hastily refused, but Gu Junming insisted on buying them for her.

    "When getting engaged, others have clothes and gifts, this is already apromise for you."

    Almost without negotiating price, he bought Sun Chan a coat, leather shoes, a scarf, a sweater, and even had her change into them, having the store clerk cut off the tags, so she could wear them out directly.

    Sun Chan felt a bit troubled, "Isn��t it too expensive? I could just make something myself from a piece of fabric."

    "It��s no problem." Gu Junming beamed at Sun Chan, her new off-white fleece coat and ck corduroy pants made her look much more elegant: "I always thought about when I��d be able to do this too, when I��d see my friends buy clothes for their girlfriends, and now it��s finallye true."

    Sun Chan blushed with embarrassment.

    The clothes she changed out of were packed into a big bag and carried by Gu Junming to the entrance of the sanatorium. Along the way, they didn��t talk much, but it never felt lonely either.

    Gu Junming��s hand brushed against Sun Chan��s a few times, they held hands briefly only to let go soon after, probably afraid of being seen. When passing by a field, they saw some wild mushrooms by the roadside, and Gu Junming hopped down the slopes, quicklying back with arge handful, which Sun Chan took and peeled to eat, feeling sweet inside in more ways than one.

    At the entrance, both of them were a bit shy to say anything sentimental, so Gu Junming handed the bag to Sun Chan.

    Sun Chanughed, "What would you like? I��ll buy it for you next time."

    "I want you to gain a bit more weight. Next time I see you, I want you to be plumper so you��re more cuddly."

    Surprisingly, Gu Junming actually said such a thing, making Sun Chan��s face flush instantly, giving him a yful shove on the shoulder.

    "Are you really going to resign?"

    "Yes." Sun Chan nodded, "It would be better for everyone this way. I��m going to find Sister-inw Guihua first, rest assured, I��ve already nned to start a small business." She had a hundred-plus bucks on her, enough to stay at a guesthouse for a while even if she didn��t have a job. Therefore, Gu Junming wasn��t too worried.

    "I see, then once you��re settled, give me a call. During this time, if anythinges up, you can always call me."

    Sun Chan nodded, "Okay, be careful on your way."

    He watched until Sun Chan��s figure disappeared before he turned and left.

    Sun Chan returned to the dormitory with her luggage, just in time to see Yang Liu squatting and cleaning the floors. Seeing her return, Yang Liu promptly ran over, beaming and grabbing her arm: "What brings you back?"

    "Why, not happy to see me?" Sun Chanughed.

    "No, that��s not it. You know I didn��t mean it that way. How did it go, everything alright?"

    Sun Chan nodded, "How was it here while I was gone?"

    Yang Liu shrugged and said, "Same old! Recently the Director has been recruiting, he probably doesn��t want to keep you anymore, seeing as Mr. Yan and Director Yan aren��t around. Seems like he��s trying to handle things his way first! It really pisses me off, this wasn��t your fault to begin with, why should you be med?"

    "It��s okay. I��ve been thinking about resigning too. I want to learn while I��m young and do things I��ve always wanted to do." Sun Chan spoke with Yang Liu while packing her things.

    She had indeed firmly decided to resign.

    Seeing her determination, Yang Liu asked about her ns.

    Sun Chan smiled and said, "I n to start a small business, and then maybe study a bit. I worked as a caregiver before, I want to learn some nursing, maybe get into a vocational school."

    Yang Liu��s eyes widened, then she looked at Sun Chan, "You really have ambition! I admire you!"

    "What��s there to admire? I don��t even have an elementary school diploma, not sure if I can even keep up." Sun Chanughed bitterly.

 Chapter 93 Encounter

    <h4>Chapter 93: Chapter 93 Encounter</h4>

    Zhao Xiuxia pulled her out in her sixth grade second semester, because her exam scores were excellent in the ss. At the market, they happened to run into the principal, who said to Zhao Xiuxia, "Cultivate Sun Chan well, she will definitely have a future, maybe even be the first university student from the vige." Because of these words, Sun Lijuan cried at home all night, refusing to eat or drink. Tofort her daughter, Zhao Xiuxia forcibly pulled Sun Chan out of school, forbidding her to continue studying.

    This was the most regrettable thing for Sun Chan in her previous life. Now given a second chance, she thinks that although she doesn��t have the ability to go to college anymore, perhaps she could at least try for a self-study technical secondary school.

    But now it seems a bit difficult to pursue, with only a primary school education, there are many things she��s unfamiliar with.

    "Well, just take your time. I can lend you my middle school textbooks, just have him send them over," Yang Liu said with a smile. "Actually, my dad is a teacher... but I don��t keep in touch with them anymore."

    "What happened?"

    "Nothing much. My grandmother doesn��t like me going home, says I bring bad luck to my younger brother. When I was little, she even poked me with needles! Every time I go back, she wants to hit me, scold me, and she��s always trying to send me away as far as possible. My parents treat me well, and that makes her unhappy." Yang Liu rarely talks about family matters with Sun Chan; she thought Yang Liu was cheerful by nature, unaware she had such unhappy memories.

    In many families where males are favored over females, Yang Liu��s grandmother went too far. Fortunately, her parents were rtively kind to her, and because of this issue, her mother had fierce conflicts with her grandmother, almost leading to a divorce. After having a younger brother, the grandmother��s attitude improved quite a bit.

    However, the past trauma was already there, so Yang Liu seldom went home.

    Sun Chan said, "I don��t know how tofort you."

    Yang Liu smiled and said, "I don��t care about it anymore. I was thinking, if your business does well, can I join you? I��m so tired of my current job. My grandmother arranged it through her contacts, and in two or three years, I haven��t saved a penny. She secretly says I��m just a waste who only knows how to enjoy herself. I��m not happy about it."

    Yang Liu wasn��t much of a dreamer, taking life as ites. However, living under someone else��s roof didn��t feel great. She decided to hold on tight to Sun Chan, who seemed like a big tree offering shelter.

    Sun Chan smiled, ruffling her hair, "Alright, if I make money, I��ll definitely let you help out. But don��t quit your job now. Who knows what the future holds?"

    Yang Liu nodded, "Alright, I��ll listen to you."

    That evening, Sun Chan went to talk to her boss about resigning. The boss thought, you really know your ce; I hadn��t even figured out how to let you go yet, and you took the initiative. They quickly agreed to her resignation request and even gave her a few extra days of sry.

    As Sun Chan left the boss��s office, she thought to herself, had she known it would be this easy, she might have saved the position for Liu Qingshuang. But even if she did, it wouldn��t have benefited him.

    That night, Sun Chan stayed one more night at the sanatorium and left early the next morning. Yang Liu was reluctant to part with her, even stuffing a bag of her own cookies into Sun Chan��s hands.

    Sun Chan walked out with her bag, and at the entrance, she saw Han Donging from afar, carrying a lot of fruit and a big package.

    Seeing Sun Chan, he excitedly waved, "Where are you going?"

    Sun Chan smiled and walked up to him, "I��ve resigned. I��m preparing to leave. What about you?"

    Han Dong was taken aback, thenughed, "You��re not doing this job anymore? That��s great,e with me, let��s do business together."

    "How could that work?" Sun Chanughed and said, "Even close family members keep clear ounts, and it��s even less appropriate between us. Besides, I can��t do big business. I just want to start small on my own."

    Knowing this girl has always been stubborn, Han Dong didn��t persuade further. He patted Sun Chan on the shoulder and said, "Let me treat you to a meal, on ount of my recent good earnings from selling fruit."

    Sun Chan nodded with a smile, "Sure. I also want to explore the city and think about what kind of business to start."

    The two headed into the city. X City was muchrger than the county town where Sun Chan lived. The buildings were beautiful, and many shops were already showing development potential. Since she nned to sell food, Sun Chan focused mainly on the snack shops around. The mostmon items sold were buns and various noodles, and she thought maybe she could sell pancakes or potato cakes. These ingredients weren��t expensive, and cooking them was rtively simple.

    After wandering through many ces, Han Dong finally asked, "Hungry? What do you want to eat? My treat."

    "Anyce is fine," she replied.

    "Don��t underestimate me; let��s eat something good!" Han Dong insisted and dragged Sun Chan into a more upscale restaurant in the area.

    They sat in a corner, and Han Dong ordered a dozen dishes in a row. Sun Chan hurriedly said, "Don��t order so much, I can��t eat it all. It��s such a waste."

    "No worries, just eat. I��m so happy to see you, I ended up ordering more. Don��t worry, whatever��s left I��ll keep for dinner."

    Sun Chan nced at Han Dong, "You��ve matured quite a bit."

    Han Dong chuckled proudly, "I��ve always been mature."

    He shared various incidents encountered while doing business, like spending days and nights unable to sleep on the truck, almost being handed counterfeit bills worth thousands, and dealing with roadside thieves. Sun Chan listened, also feeling nervous with each story.

    Amidst their animated conversation, another guest entered the restaurant. Han Dong became curious when he saw the neer.

    "What is he doing here?"

    Sun Chan turned to look. It was a somewhat plump military officer with a friendly face, smiling broadly, and walking alongside a woman. This woman appeared to be in her twenties, also in military uniform, very beautiful and graceful.

    The two walked in together and sat at a table right behind Sun Chan.

    In those days, there were no private rooms, so you could see them clearly.

    Curious, Sun Chan asked, "Why the curious look, what��s up?"

    "I know that person, but not very well... never mind, let��s eat," Han Dong said, not wanting to discuss it with Sun Chan, though he found the situation a bit strange.

    The young man was Gu Juntao, though he and Han Dong weren��t acquainted.

    However, Han Dong had seen a family photo of Gu Juntao��s entire family and knew this was his half-brother from his stepmother. Moreover, he had just heard from his mother that Gu Juntao was meeting potential marriage partners, with his mother introducing girls from good families. What was the situation here?

    Judging by the two��s demeanor, they clearly weren��t just acquaintances. Did he start a rtionship without telling his family?

 Chapter 94: Heartbreak

    <h4>Chapter 94: Chapter 94: Heartbreak</h4>

    Sun Chan turned her back to their direction, even though she didn��t want to listen, she asionally caught some of their conversation.

    The woman said to Gu Juntao, "This is thest time we meet, and afterwards we shouldn��t meet again."

    "What are you talking about?" Gu Juntao set her chopsticks down with a cheerful smile, saying, "Don��t overthink it, I��ve said it. No matter what the problem is, the two of us will face it together."

    The woman nced at Gu Juntao, then pressed her lips together and said, "Stop joking around. We arepletely unsuitable for each other, you should know this; you have a promising future, I��m older than you... and I��m a widow."

    Her husband was also a soldier before, butter he died during a mission, leaving her widowed. They met through work, and their feelings quickly warmed, leading them to be together.

    Gu Juntao remained silent, his expression very serious.

    He knew what kind of people his parents were, especially his mother, who was keen for him to find someone who could benefit his career.

    The woman saw the difficult expression on Gu Juntao��s face and said, "You��ve helped me a lot before. Even if you break up with me directly, I won��t me you, rest assured. I won��t make a fuss, I know in my heart I��m unworthy of you..." Her voice was tinged with a sob as she finished speaking.

    "Don��t say things like that, you��re such a wonderful person, I know better than anyone. Yang Hongying, listen to me, in this life, I will only marry you. If I can��t marry you, I��d rather remain single forever." His words were loud enough that everyone in the restaurant heard, and some couldn��t help butugh.

    Yang Hongying was very anxious, holding onto his arm: "Stop it!"

    Gu Juntao ignored her and grabbed her hand: "Listen to me, from the very first day we were together, I knew who you were. I still chose to be with you, which means I don��t care. This is the new society! What my mom says doesn��t count. You��reing home with me tomorrow."

    Yang Hongying was anxious: "No way..."

    "What do you mean no way?" Gu Juntao pped the table: "I make the decisions! Don��t think I��m joking. You are my wife!"

    In his haste, he said what his grandfather often said, causing those around them tough even harder.

    Yang Hongying was overwhelmed with embarrassment and pushed Gu Juntao away before running out.

    Gu Juntao hurriedly chased after her: "You haven��t even eaten, where are you going?"

    Han Dong watched his figure and said, "I used to hear that the second son of the Gu Family was cowardly and ipetent, but who would have thought he��d be resolute in matters like this."

    "Because he wants to be with someone he likes," Sun Chan thought to herself. How interesting, his surname is Gu too.

    "I think there��s a high chance this won��t seed. Forget about Uncle Gu, Aunt Gu would never agree. But it��s not our business, so let��s not bother."

    Sun Chan felt regret for that woman, as in the vige, men with decent family conditions, if their wife died, their second wife could be someone good, even a young maiden. Nobody says anything about it. But if a woman loses her husband and remarries, she can only seek those lower. It seems the city isn��t much better.

    She wondered if she could be together with Gu Junming?

    Were his city parents, who had reportedly good conditions, going to ept her?

    She started to let her thoughts wander.

    Han Dong noticed the faint blush on Sun Chan��s face, feeling an ominous premonition: "Sun Chan, are you in a rtionship?"

    Sun Chan didn��t conceal anything, nodding: "Yes, I met someone recently, he��s in the military."

    Han Dong��s heart sank, tightly gripping his chopsticks, forcing a smile: "Why? I��ve said I��ll change my ways, why won��t you give me this chance? Am I really that bad?"

    Sun Chan hurriedly said: "You��re a good person, it��s simply that we��re not suitable, don��t overthink it. It really depends on fate."

    Han Dong didn��t speak for a while, ying with the chopsticks in his hand, feeling a mess inside.

    Back then, he promised not to pursue Sun Chan anymore, which was why she agreed to continue being friends with him. me it on his light-heartedness during their first meeting, which made Sun Chan wary of epting him.

    Sun Chan said, "We will be good friends, and you��ll find a suitable girl."

    "I understand." Han Dong replied a bit dispiritedly, "Is he good to you?"

    "Yeah." Sun Chan��s mind recalled Gu Junming��s image, feeling her heart lightly burn: "He��s an earnest person."

    "Let me have a look someday and help advise you."

    Sun Chan nodded. At this time, the dishes were served, and Sun Chan helped set the table.

    Han Dong suppressed the bitterness in his heart, knowing that if he continued to pester Sun Chan given her temperament, she probably would sever all ties with him in the future. Fine, I��m just going to be your friend then. He smiled, "Let��s talk about something else, have you thought about what business you want to start?"

    "Yes, I want to make food. Sell some cheap foods, like tea eggs or meat buns. Then once I��ve saved up a bit, I��ll open a small storefront." Sun Chan smiled and said, "Actually, I want to lean on a big sister I know, to see if she can help me figure out a way to rent a ce."

    Even though she had some money now, she was unfamiliar with the area and feared being deceived.

    Han Dong thought for a moment and said, "How about you take over a fruit stand? Anyway, I supply fruit, so I could provide you with some stock, which would be cheaper than if you bought it wholesale yourself."

    Sun Chan was somewhat tempted, but still had reservations, "Is this feasible? The upfront cost is substantial, right?"

    "What��s the worry! Or you could work for me first, and once things are developing you can start your own business. Let me tell you, the profit margin in the fruit business is quite good. The two of us partner up, my fruit wholesale is sold to anyone, rest assured, I won��t cut any corners for you, everything is strictly business."

    Sun Chanughed, "After one trip to the south, you appear quite the big boss."

    Han Dong helped Sun Chan with the food, "I��m not that capable; it��s the connections my dad made in the south. I��m just learning bit by bit from others. So it��s settled. For your first business venture, since the initial capital isn��t much, just find a small storefront."

    Sun Chan nodded.

    Han Dong then asked where the location was, and Sun Chan replied, "Still in X City."

    She wanted to be closer to Gu Junming, so he coulde see her if he was on leave.

    Seeing Sun Chan��s expression, Han Dong felt another pinch in his heart. Even though he had decided to support her, he couldn��t help but feel unsatisfied thinking about how it was his first time seriously liking someone.

    "What��s his name? Is he really that good?"

    Sun Chan felt a bit embarrassed, waved her hand, "You��ll meet him eventually, let��s not talk about it now."

 Chapter 95 Marriage Matters

    <h4>Chapter 95: Chapter 95 Marriage Matters</h4>

    "That��s fine then. When I meet him, I��ll definitelypare myself to him. I refuse to believe I��m any worse."

    "He might not be better than you in some aspects. But we arepatible." Sun Chanughed, "You��ll find someone suitable too."

    Han Dong smiled. For the first time in his life, he tasted the bitterness of heartbreak. It was quite unpleasant.

    However, he��s a positive person who doesn��t dwell on emotions for long. He quickly adjusted his mood and enjoyed a meal with her.

    Han Dong said, "You can��t stop seeing me just because you have a boyfriend now. You can��t just interact with one man for your entire life. We��ll be business partners in the future. Don��t worry, I might bully anyone else, but I won��t do anything to you."

    "Thank you, Han Dong." Sun Chan was sincerely grateful; he had helped her a lot.

    Han Dong waved his hand, "I should be thanking you. If it weren��t for you, I��d still be stuck. My parents quite like you too."

    Sun Chan chuckled, "Your parents must be very open-minded."

    "Definitely!" Han Dong then shared many interesting stories about his parents.

    After finishing their meal, the two of them took a stroll around town, primarily checking out rental properties. Prices were simr all around; the rent in X City was quite expensive. Especially those storefronts by the road, a ce around thirty square meters surprisingly charged forty bucks a month.

    Sun Chan had less than two hundred bucks total and couldn��t afford it, so she had to forget about it.

    Han Dong said, "Let me handle it! I��ll pay."

    "No!" Sun Chan quickly stopped him, "Even close brothers should keep financial matters clear. It��s generous of you to help, and I��m grateful, but you can��t help without principles. I think I��ll rent a ce inside instead. As for selling fruits, I can sell them door-to-door to save on rent." She had already nned to buy a second-hand bicycle from the junkyard, and use it to carry fruits, along with a simple scale.

    Han Dong was a bit helpless, "You��re really stubborn."

    Sun Chanughed, "I believe I can seed. If I rely on youpletely, making money wouldn��t make me happy."

    After circling around, they found a small adobe house near the street. Although it was small, it was clean inside and not far from the roadside, which satisfied Sun Chan.

    Thendlord was a teacher, and the house belonged to his mother, which had been vacant since her death.

    With winter approaching, he was concerned about the pipes freezing due to long periods without heating, which would affect the entire alley. Thus, he was eager to rent it out at only fifteen bucks a month, payable every three months.

    "If you rent it, I��ll give you the coal pieces from my coal storage too."

    Grateful, Sun Chan immediately paid three months�� rent and got the key.

    The ce was dusty all over, but Sun Chan didn��t have time to clean it; she nned to visit Sister-inw Guihua first. Locking the door, she and Han Dong headed for the bus station.

    Han Dong said, "I��m relieved it was so easy to rent it. When will you start the business? I��ll deliver fruits to you."

    Sun Chan smiled, "You��re more anxious than I am. I need to discuss it with my sister first. Let��s talk after we have everything arranged."

    Han Dong agreed, wrote down his phone number in a notebook, and gave it to Sun Chan. He personally apanied her to a tricycle bound for Guihua��s vige, "Remember, tell me anything, and I��lle to help immediately."

    As the vehicle started, Sun Chan waved from the seat, "You should head back. Thanks for visiting me today!"

    "Why be so polite? Helping you is also for my business��s benefit. If you manage to establish yourself in X City, my fruits will sell better, won��t they?" He waved goodbye with a smile.

    Watching Sun Chan go further, Han Dong kicked a pebble by his foot and turned to leave. Well, a real man need not fear having no wife!

    Meanwhile, Gu Juntao had caught up with Yang Hongying, and they stood on the street looking at each other.

    Yang Hongying��s eyes suddenly reddened.

    Gu Juntao said, "Come home with me."

    "I... I need time to prepare."

    "Prepare for what? My mom is urging me to go on a blind date. I don��t want to be separated from you." Gu Juntao held her hand.

    Yang Hongying paused and replied, "Then next weekend, we��ll go to your ce."

    Better to rip the band-aid off than let pain linger. There��s no escape from reality. She had already decided to break up with him.

    Gu Juntao was delighted and smiled, "Don��t worry, ever since I was little, no matter how much my mom disapproved, she eventually agreed with what I did. Don��t overthink it, let��s go eat." He tried to lead her back to a restaurant.

    Yang Hongying stopped him, "Forget it, time is tight, and you have to head back soon. Let��s eat stretched noodles instead. It��s been a long time."

    "Alright! Rest assured, I��ll listen to you in everything from now on." Gu Juntao said, smiling at her warmly.

    Yang Hongying gave him a slight smile, but her heart was filled with despair.

    Gu Juntao was unaware of her thoughts, pondering if he could find a chance to ask his older brother for help. In his family, only his brother could lend a hand. As long as his brother could assist, he reckoned half of the problem might be solved.

    Gu Junming had just returned to the troop and heard that Gu Zishan had called him four or five times. Worried that something might have happened at home, he quickly called back.

    Upon hearing his voice, Gu Zishan hurriedly issued an order, "You muste back this weekend; I have something to tell you."

    "I��m very busy."

    "Busy with what? Visiting your foster parents in the vige?" Gu Zishan said coldly.

    "They raised me, and I see them. Do you disapprove as well, Commander? If not for them, I��d be dead by now."

    Gu Zishan pondered, "After all these years, are you still angry with me?"

    "How could I be? Seeking advantage and avoiding harm is human nature." Gu Junming said, "If there��s me, me my mother for her poor judgment in people."

    Infuriated, Gu Zishan felt like he was about to cough up blood. "Back then, the decision was jointly discussed with your mother; it was the only way to preserve the Gu Family. Otherwise, both families would perish!"

    "Hmm. Then your speedy marriage to Wang Guihua after my mother��s death was also her idea? Without hesitation, not even a year wasted��truly remarkable."

    Gu Zishan was choked up, unable to utter a word. He wanted to tell his son the higher-ups pressured him; circumstances forced his hand, or else the Gu Family would have been doomed.

    But he couldn��t voice it because others faced simr predicaments, yet maintained a strong marital bond, while he was the one to abandon his original wife for another. It boiled down to his cowardice and fear of losing everything. He worried about the rtives on Gu Junming��s mother��s side implicating him, prompting a clean break. This was what Gu Zishan least wanted to admit, especially as a man who had seen the battlefield��how cowardly!

 Chapter 96: Going to See Guihua

    <h4>Chapter 96: Chapter 96: Going to See Guihua</h4>

    Gu Junming smiled, "Does themander have anything else? If not, I need to get busy."

    "Wait a moment!" Gu Zishan suppressed his inner bitterness and said, "Now that your brother is about to have a blind date and get married, you should resolve your personal issues soon too. Since you don��t like the person we found for you, find someone yourself. Your grandfather is getting old, and he hopes to see you marry and have children soon. Your mother��s only worry on her deathbed was your marriage, and it��s something I owe her."

    Upon hearing him mention his mother, Gu Junming felt a pang in his heart. He thought about it and realized it was indeed time to settle matters with Sun Chan sooner. He couldn��t let her heart remain unsettled, and even though Sun Chan didn��t say anything, Gu Junming knew she worried about not being epted by his parents.

    Gu Junming said, "Okay, I��ll bring my partner home next weekend."

    "Are you serious? Whose daughter is she? Did you meet her in the army?" Gu Zishan was delighted, surprised that Gu Junming quickly found someone to marry!

    "You��ll find out when the timees. She��s a good girl." Gu Junming hung up the phone.

    Gu Zishan paced back and forth, excitedly rubbing his hands together. Gu Junming was so busy in the army that he wouldn��t have had the time to meet other women. It must be a girl from the army, so the conditions can��t be bad!

    Wang Guihua came over with some fruit and saw Gu Zishan pacing back and forth. Sheughed, "What��s going on? Did Jun Tao call? Why didn��t you let me know?"

    "It wasn��t the second son, it��s the eldest. Junming has found a partner!" Gu Zishan sat down and contentedly patted the sofa beside him. "I trust his judgment; the girl must be good."

    Wang Guihua saw the smile at the corners of Gu Zishan��s eyes and wasn��t pleased. The treatment of the two sons was so different, wasn��t it? Jun Tao never saw you being so attentive when he was looking for a partner. You always im to favor the second son the most.

    Gu Junming is just a soldier without any background! What��s so special about him? What kind of good family girl could he find anyway? If he did find someone, wouldn��t I know something about it? It��s most likely just a vige girl!

    She waited to see a joke, but outwardly she smiled, "Really? With Junming��s conditions, the one he found shouldn��t be bad, I better prepare well."

    "Prepare then! Make sure Jun Taoes back as well! Our family should have a good meal together. Wait, if the girl��s parents are in town, shouldn��t we invite them as well?"

    Wang Guihuaughed, "You��re really impatient; let��s meet the children first! When both parents meet, they��ll discuss marriage, and that��s too abrupt, isn��t it?"

    "Alright, I��ll go check on Dad." Gu Junming stood up and walked towards the stairs.

    As Wang Guihua watched her husband leave, her smile immediately faded. Jun Tao was also going on a blind date, but he didn��t even ask about it and left everything to her! How could this not make her angry?

    Wang Guihua called Gu Juntao��s office, but he wasn��t there. They said he was on leave and had gone out. Wang Guihua hung up the phone unhappily, thinking about it, still feeling uneasy, she picked up her bag and walked out.

    She��s nning to contact some good sisters and must introduce a girl with the best conditions.

    Sun Chan had already gotten on the bus to find Guihua. On the way, she asked the driver to stop for a bit, and then she got off to buy a lot of milk powder, diapers, and malt extract, all packed in a big bag. These were what she neededst time, and Sun Chan remembered them.

    When the bus arrived at the entrance to the vige, it was already afternoon, and she quickened her pace, hoping to return to the city.

    Just as she was halfway there, a car drove up from behind. Sun Chan instinctively stood at the side of the road to let it pass, but who knew the car stopped right beside her.

    The car door opened, and Wang Dabao stuck his head out with a smile, "Is it Sun Chan? I thought it looked like you. Are you here to see my wife?"

    Sun Chan nodded at him, "I want to talk to Sister Guihua about something." Suddenly, she saw a woman sitting in the passenger seat, wearing a red dress, looking very seductive, around twenty-seven or eight years old, with a flirtatious gaze looking at Sun Chan.

    Sun Chan��s first feeling was that this woman was that fox spirit, daring to boldly bring her back home like this!

    Wang Dabao seemed afraid that Sun Chan might misunderstand and quickly said, "This is Zhao Hong, my secretary."

    "Is this the girl you know?" Zhao Hong smiled warmly, "Get in, let us give you a lift."

    Sun Chan smiled and said, "No, I want to go to the small shop to buy something else. It��s not far from your house. You guys go ahead, I��ll be there soon."

    "No need to be polite; just hop in. I��ll help you carry your things." Wang Dabao started to get out of the car.

    Sun Chan saw there was a little shop nearby and said without looking back, "No need to trouble; I��ll be quick."

    Wang Dabao had no choice but to give up, but just as he was driving away, he clearly heard Zhao Hong say, "How unappreciative! Such a hypocrite!"

    Sun Chan pretended not to hear, but inside, she was fuming. Shameless woman! No wonder Guihua was so angry; with such a woman following Wang Dabao, it shows Wang Dabao��s taste isn��t great either.

    She went to the small shop and bought two cans of food and a bag of peanuts.

    The shopkeeperdy saw Sun Chan��s unfamiliar face and smiled, "You��re not from this vige, are you?"

    "No, I��m here to see Sister Guihua." When she paid, she suddenly smiled and asked, "I wonder how she��s doing now. Is she still running a business with her husband?"

    "Yes, they��re discussing divorce now." The woman lowered her voice, "You know, for such a couple, who��ve had the best life in the vige, they��re even going to get divorced! Everyone says Guihua lost her mind after giving birth... Oh dear! Look what I��m saying; don��t take it to heart, I was just joking!"

    Sun Chan pursed her lips and smiled, "It��s fine, it��s mainly Wang Dabao��s issue. Guihua has no problem."

    "Hehe, men are just like that, aren��t they? But once she divorces him, what kind of person can she find in the future, especially with a son, it��ll be hard to remarry! If you��re close, maybe try to persuade her, don��t make a fuss."

    Sun Chan didn��t say anything, before she used to think that was right, but now she understands, divorce is nothing, why should one live life swallowing grievances!

    She walked to Guihua��s doorstep and saw Guihua leaning there to wee her. Sun Chan smiled and ran over with her stuff.

    Guihua smiled, "You��re looking more radiant!"

    "Sis! What are you saying, you��re the one bing more beautiful!"

    Guihua wore a white jacket and was much thinner thanst time we met.

    "Yeah." Guihua smiled, "Isn��t divorcing quite the physical undertaking, so I lost weight."

 Chapter 97 Divorce and Big Quarrel

    <h4>Chapter 97: Chapter 97 Divorce and Big Quarrel</h4>

    "Where��s the baby?" Sun Chan looked around. She saw a pile of furniture, pots, and pans in the yard, and Wang Dabao��s car was parked there, but there was no sign of him.

    Guihuaughed, "My brother took our son to my house. Today is myst day here, and soon my family wille to move my stuff. This house will be hers from now on, she must be very happy."

    Sun Chan was stunned, "He won��t even give you the house?"

    Guihua whispered, "That��s how men are. At first, he kept begging me to forgive him, but as soon as he saw I was determined to divorce, he flipped out and wanted to kick me out with nothing."

    Sun Chan bit her lip, her face turning white with anger. What kind of person is this! He took full advantage of Guihua��s family, was unfaithful outside, hooked up with another woman, and still has the nerve to leave her with nothing! Such a person is a bastard!

    "Why are you angry?" Guihua grabbed her,ughing, "I��ve already transferred all the savings, and took all the valuables. Anyway, the house in the countryside is worthless, he can have it if he wants! Now he has nothing left but a broken-down car and that stinky woman."

    Sun Chan couldn��t help butugh out loud, Guihua really had a humorous way of speaking.

    Herughter hadn��t stopped when Wang Dabao burst out in anger. Zhao Hong followed him, her face livid, clearly upset about not finding any of the belongings.

    Wang Dabao stood in front of Guihua, "Where are the bank books?" He couldn��t y it cool any longer.

    "Gone." Guihua replied indifferently, her eyes half-closed.

    "What about the business money?"

    Guihua smiled faintly, "I��m just a woman, how would I know about money? Didn��t you say that business matters are not for me to handle? I have no idea where your money went, maybe ask Zhao Hong, it wasn��t used to buy a house."

    Zhao Hong quickly said, "No, I don��t have a house!"

    "Oh, it wasn��t for you? For which sly fox then? Last time, Wang Dabao admitted it, the house was probably sold to fund the business, and you won��t be happy for long."

    Wang Dabao��s eyes turned bloodshot with rage, pointing at Guihua��s nose, "Are you kidding me? I��ve been doing business for years, and I have nothing? I used to give you two, three thousand at a time, where did that money go?"

    "You must be joking!" Guihua sneered, "Who gave you the capital to start your business? My family did! Now you won��t repay with interest? When did you give me two, three thousand? Any proof? Everything good goes to you, now I am too old for you, you force me to divorce, and expect me to leave with nothing, how clever you are! Did your brains grow in the wrong ce, thinking everyone else is a fool?"

    Wang Dabao staggered, his eyes rolling back, pointing at Guihua, "Was it me asking for a divorce? Weren��t you the one always asking for it, I had no choice but to..."

    "Bah! You brought that sly fox spirit home and dare to me me?"

    Zhao Hong on the side scoffed, "Sister, I��m just a secretary, I did nothing. You don��t want to live your life, that��s your problem, don��t throw dirt on me."

    "You shameless thing, was I talking to you? Who told you to butt in!" Guihua pped Zhao Hong across the face.

    Zhao Hong held her face and let out a moan as she fell to the ground, screaming: "Murder! Help me, Dabao!"

    Wang Dabao was already frustrated from not getting the money, and now seeing his dear Zhao Hong getting pped, he was furious, he punched Guihua in the face: "How dare you hit Honghong? You shrew, I��ll kill you!"

    Sun Chan was shocked, a strike of that force on Guihua would surely kill her! Without thinking, she rushed over to push Wang Dabao away.

    Wang Dabao��s punch missed Sun Chan, but the force was still strong, pushing Sun Chan into the wall.

    Guihua felt a chill in her heart: "You heartless bastard, you hit me over a lowlife, I��ll fight you to the death!" She rushed forward to fight Wang Dabao, Sun Chan wanted to stop her, to calm her down, but she couldn��t.

    Wang Dabao��s face was immediately covered in scratches, swearing in pain, he kicked Guihua in the knee.

    Guihua fell to her knees, Wang Dabao and Zhao Hong both rushed in, Sun Chan was terrified, shielding Guihua.

    "Stop fighting! Can��t we just talk this through peacefully?"

    Guihua was filled with hatred towards that man, she pushed Sun Chan away: "Let theme at me, let me see how this pair of scum dare to hit me today!"

    Wang Dabao grabbed her by the neck, eyes filled with hatred: "Where��s the money! Where��s the money!"

    Zhao Hong suddenly came over to grab her waist, the two of them wanted to take Guihua on together.

    Sun Chan once again went over to pull Zhao Hong��s arm away.

    Zhao Hong cursed, "Get lost! What��s it to you!"

    "It��s a matter between the couple, what��s it to you? Or are you the mistress? So shameless?" Sun Chan pushed her away hard.

    Zhao Hong was burning with anger, wanting to help her dear husband with money, but now money��s gone, and she��s being cursed!

    Seeing Sun Chan��s gentle and weak appearance, she seemed like an easy target, so she lifted her hand to strike: "You little bitch, get lost! I��m with the boss, so what, what��s it to you? Are you interested in Wang Dabao? Too bad, he won��t like someone like you! Don��t think I can��t see you acting slutty all the time!"

    Sun Chan was also enraged, pping her across the face: "Shut your filthy mouth!"

    She had donebor work for years, her arms were strong, and she kicked and pulled hair, beating the woman to howling screams. Zhao Hong, who usually did nothing, was no match for Sun Chan, quickly falling to the ground.

    Guihua grabbed Wang Dabao��s shirt, pulling: "I bought this shirt! And the pants, give them back too!"

    Pushing and pulling, grabbing his thighs, Wang Dabao let out a scream: "Let go, Guihua, let go first!"

    The four of them were tangled up in a fight in the yard, vigers came rushing over to separate them. Wang Dabao��s clothes had several rips, his nose was bleeding, Zhao Hong��s face was swollen, and arge patch of her hair was pulled out, she cried out loud.

    "Dear, this bitch hit me!" She pointed towards where Sun Chan was.

    ```

 Chapter 98: Settling

    <h4>Chapter 98: Chapter 98: Settling</h4><h4></h4>

    Sun Chan didn��t say anything��Guihua had helped her before, so she should help too. Besides, this woman was so shameless, she needed a good lesson!

    Wang Dabao was initially furious seeing Zhao Hong getting beaten, but when he turned his head and saw the delicate and lovely Sun Chan, he was at a loss for words, hesitant to hit or scold her because she was so beautiful.

    Someone tried to mediate, saying: "Let it go, Guihua! You��re husband and wife, why has it be like this?"

    Guihua suddenly burst into tears: "Everyone saw it, huh? Bringing that little whore here to bully me, I can��t live like this! I can��t y dead inside here pushing me around, I��ve left with nothing and still can��t live well! I won��t live anymore!" She suddenly dashed towards the big wall behind her to ram into it.

    Seeing Guihua about tomit suicide, everyone around cried out in rm and rushed to stop her.

    "Guihua, what are you doing?"

    "Think it through! Don��t be foolish!"

    The crowd managed to save Guihua amidst the chaos.

    Sun Chan did not move this time, as she truly didn��t believe Guihua would go so far as to seek death. What a joke, with all the valuables in her hands, would she really die?

    Not only Sun Chan thought this way, Wang Dabao felt the same. Both believed Guihua was too malicious; she took advantage of everything inside and still wanted to ruin my dignity outside!

    Wang Dabao angrily shouted: "Stop pretending to be weak in front of everyone, you took all the valuables from the house and..."

    "Spent all the money to buy a building for your fox spirit! You took the car, the business, and the vige��s house plot! You said you��d leave me with nothing, and I agreed, yet you��re still not satisfied, bringing Zhao Hong over to push me to death?"

    While she was talking, the sound of a tricycle came from outside, and Guihua listened to it, then immediately rushed out.

    "Brother! Wang Dabao is bullying me to death!" she cried out in usations.

    "That bastard, ruined our sister��s life and now dares to be arrogant!"

    Wang Dabao knew trouble wasing when he realized it was her brothersing. He grabbed Zhao Hong and tried to flee outside, but it was toote. Four or five robust men surrounded them and beat them vigorously. Many people tried to intervene, yet Zhao Hong ended up beaten until her face looked like a pig��s head, crying out miserably. Wang Dabao kept screaming it was a misunderstanding, but nobody listened, the more he cried injustice, the fiercer they beat him.

    "You brought this whore back just to anger my sister, you asked for it!"

    Guihua stopped crying, asked the vigers for help loading things onto the vehicle, and didn��t even look at the battlefield over there.

    "Let��s go." She said to the stunned Sun Chan.

    Sun Chan was taken aback: "Ah?"

    "These things, my brother will take directly back to my parents�� home. I��m not staying here anymore, heading straight to the city. If we dy, there won��t be a car." She pulled Sun Chan along without stopping.

    "But aren��t you going to tell your brothers?"

    "No need, I already told them before."

    Sun Chan knew Guihua was decisive, but she didn��t expect her to be so straightforward, packing her bags, packing off her husband and the mistress, then leaving immediately without wasting a minute.

    They jumped onto a vehicle leaving the vige, sitting in the back of the carriage. The vehicle kept bouncing, while the scenery on either side sped past.

    Guihua suddenly said: "All my kindness towards him these years was wasted, now I��ve finally understood that I��m just someone to be toyed with. From now on, I will live for myself."

    She told Sun Chan she ns to settle down in the city and then bring her child there: "I must expand my business so I can provide for my child and vent some anger. Didn��t he always look down on me? I��m going to see who��s better at business! I��m about to open a hostel!"

    Sun Chan said: "Sister Guihua, I know you��re a person with ideas, but you can��t act rashly in such matters. You have to take it slow, right? A business opened out of spite might not necessarily make money."

    Guihua smiled and leaned against Sun Chan: "I know, I��m just angry. From now on, I��ll be alone."

    She said this, then closed her eyes and started crying. No matter how astute a woman might be, being abandoned by her husband is a pain she can��t escape; Sun Chan understood her sorrow and let her lean on her shoulder, crying softly.

    Sun Chan patted her shoulder lightly and whispered: "Don��t be like this, sister, try to see things differently."

    After crying a while, Guihua felt better and mentioned the ce to stay in the city. Originally, Guihua nned to stay in a hostel, but Sun Chan told her that she rented an apartment in the city and nned to sell fruits through Han Dong.

    Guihua was a bit surprised, then smiled: "You sneaky one, you��re nning to start your own business quietly?"

    Sun Chanughed: "It��s just something small. Sister Guihua, temporarily stay with me. It��s not safe with theings and goings at the hostel!"

    "Alright, I��ll trouble you then."

    "There��s no need to thank me." Sun Chan felt happy to be able to help Sister Guihua and felt a sense of fulfillment.

    Meanwhile, Wang Dabao and Zhao Hong were beaten up by Guihua��s brothers and driven out of the vige.

    Luckily, they ran quickly, only the car��s windows were smashed, otherwise, the damage would��ve been worse.

    Zhao Hong sat in the back seat crying, while Wang Dabao felt irritated.

    He didn��t expect this woman to be so ruthless. Who knew she had such a scheme? Transferring all that money wasn��t something done overnight; she must��ve started back when she was pregnant!

    Looking again at the pig-headed Zhao Hong beside him confused him further��was dealing with this really worth losing all help in future business?

    Zhao Hong stayed quiet, seeing his expression turned bad; if sheined, he��d probably throw her out.

    Resentment brewed in Wang Dabao��s heart, he couldn��t let her take the family��s money and just leave!

    They went to the rental house, finding it equipped with basic kitchenware left by the previous tenants. They bought the missing items like oil, salt, soy sauce, etc., in one trip.

    Guihua spent money on new nkets and mattresses. Sun Chan found it extravagant, as ordinary families lived frugally, they typically bought fabric and cotton to make their own.

    "I can��t live in your home for free, consider this my weing gift." Guihua patted Sun Chan��s hand, stopping her from saying more.

    Sun Chan didn��t want to argue anymore, and justplied, as both fetched and cleaned the items together, despite the exhaustion, their hearts felt relieved.

    One felt reborn after finally divorcing, and the other had a small ce of their own in X City.

 Chapter 99: Preparing for Work

    <h4>Chapter 99: Chapter 99: Preparing for Work</h4><h4></h4>

    The two of them cleaned up a bit, lit the stove, and didn��t use any special ingredients. Since both of them were tired, Sun Chan just made scrambled eggs and cooked a few pancakes. They didn��t even have chairs, so they sat on the edge of the kang to eat.

    While eating, Guihua asked Sun Chan what she nned to do in the future.

    Sun Chan smiled and said, "I don��t have much capital right now, so I��ll just sell some fruits. I��ll also make some snacks to sell, something on the side. If I can make some money, great; if not, it��s no big deal."

    Guihua chuckled. She had money in hand and had been nning to rent a house to open a small inn for a while, hoping for Sun Chan��s help. However, seeing that Sun Chan seemed unwilling, she decided to probe a bit.

    "I have no problem with money. Now it��s just about finding reliable people. But you don��t seem willing."

    Sun Chan grinned and said, "I still want to study, and never thought about doing business long-term. I��m not good with words and don��t quite understand business matters, so I��m afraid I can��t help you."

    In her previous life, even though Sun Chan lived to be over forty, she was always living a hard life in the vige, knowing nothing about business. It wasn��t her area of expertise, so she wisely refused so as not to hold Guihua back.

    "Really? That��s such a shame," Guihua said regretfully. "Where can I find two trustworthy people?"

    Sun Chan suddenly thought of Yang Liu and quickly smiled, "I know someone, a colleague from the wellness center. She��s very outgoing and doesn��t want to do temp work there forever. I��m not sure if she��d be interested?"

    "As long as the person is honest and hardworking, it doesn��t matter who we hire, right?"

    The twoughed and chatted for a while, then got on the kang, lying under the quilt, which was warm from the stove. It felt incrediblyfortable. They didn��t have any curtains, so they could see the moonlight outside through the window. Sun Chan suddenly thought of Gu Junming, wondering what he was doing.

    She then felt embarrassed, blushing as she closed her eyes. As for the future, Sun Chan was filled with confidence, hoping to establish herself in the city, save some money, and then study properly, hoping one day to have a future with Gu Junming...

    Her mind was a jumbled mess. Why was she thinking of Gu Junming again? She turned over to sleep and saw that Guihua next to her was already asleep. She closed her eyes too.

    The next morning, Guihua tidied up and left first: "I need to check on things at home; the child is still with my big brother. I��ll be back in the afternoon."

    "Okay! I��ll get my things ready too," Sun Chan said with a smile, "I��ll cook dinner, you juste back and eat."

    Guihua agreed with a smile, "I��ll bring some pots and pans, otherwise we��ll have to buy them."

    Before leaving, she took the diapers and such that Sun Chan had bought for her. There was no chance to give them back when they had a spat in the vige, involving Guihua and Wang Dabao. Only then did she remember.

    Guihua didn��t mind such trivial things, but was still touched that Sun Chan was always thinking of her. She said a few words and then left.

    Sun Chan had a simple breakfast, then went out to check the nearby recycling stations. There were many things there. Although they weren��t in new condition, they were cheap. Sun Chan had very limited funds, so she had to save money this way.

    She first picked out a second-hand bicycle. The bell and the seat at the back were a bit problematic, but everything else was fine, although the appearance was a bit rusty. The person there wanted forty yuan for it.

    Sun Chan bargained with him, and finally settled on thirty-four yuan. She also spotted a wooden shelf in the corner. When she asked for the price, the boss, seeing it was cumbersome and that white mold had grown on the surface, waved his hand.

    "It��s yours! It��s hard to even burn firewood with this thing. Why do you want it?"

    Sun Chan smiled, "I thought I could clean it up and use it as a shelf to put things on."

    She pushed the bike out, then went around a few more recycling stations, bought a few chairs, which didn��t cost much because they were old and wobbly. She also picked up a long stic rope and spent three yuan on a scale. That was basically all the equipment she needed to sell fruit.

    She didn��t have much money left, but Sun Chan felt a sense of security in her heart.

    She went home and found a hammer to fix those chairs with a few simple knocks.

    In her past life, she��d done all sorts of jobs, so this was no big deal for her. After fixing them, she carefully cleaned all the things she had bought.

    Time flew, and it was noon. Sun Chan cooked some noodles for herself and went out to the phone booth.

    She wanted to call Gu Junming. Although she already had his phone number, it was the first time she was calling him. She thought it might take a while to reach him, but Gu Junming picked up the phone quickly.

    "This is Gu Junming."

    "I... I��m Sun Chan."

    Gu Junming couldn��t help but smile. She finally reached out to me. He had been waiting for news these days, growing anxious when she hadn��t contacted him. Was she resigning? How was she going to stay in X City? All these questions ran through his mind. Unfortunately, she hadn��t reached out at all, making him worry.

    Sun Chan, startled, asked, "Howe you answered so quickly? Were you waiting for my call on purpose?"

    "I was worried about you. I��ve been waiting by the phone at this time every day. Finally, it paid off."

    Sun Chan was delighted, a blush spreading over her cheeks. She briefly exined about quitting her job, "I��m nning to sell some fruits. I��ve rented a ce. If you have time,e visit."

    "Okay," said Gu Junming, "but are you sure you can handle it alone?"

    Thinking of the petite young girl having to take on so much, Gu Junming couldn��t help but feel a pang of heartache.

    "I��ll be fine," Sun Chanughed. "The fruit will be delivered to me directly. I just need to walk the streets to sell them. Once I��ve saved enough, I��ll rent a storefront. If Sister Guihua��s inn gets going, I can rent a space from her, right? Selling food and fruits near the inn wouldn��t be a bad idea." Sun Chan envisioned that most guests at the inn were from out of town, so buying some fruit or food for their journey would be natural, and business should be good.

    "But I still think it��s too hard on you."

    "It��s only temporary," Sun Chan said. "I want to save some capital, as I��ll need it either for school or opening a shop."

    Gu Junming replied, "Alright, do what you think is best. Give me your address, and I��ll help you whenever I can."

    "Okay." Sun Chan recited her address and then was about to hang up the phone.

 Chapter 100: Going into the Fruit Business

    <h4>Chapter 100: Chapter 100: Going into the Fruit Business</h4><h4></h4>

    Gu Junming hurriedlyughed and said, "You��re in such a rush. It��s really hard for me to finally get your call."

    Sun Chan said apologetically, "Don��t you have rules? I feel bad if I take up too much time on the phone."

    "Yeah, I have something else to tell you," Gu Junming drummed his fingers on the table and said with a smile, "Come home with me this weekend."

    Sun Chan was taken aback: "Didn��t we just go back..."

    "Not to the vige. To the Gu Family, I want to introduce you to my father and grandfather."

    Sun Chan��s mind buzzed. She was truly shocked. Are they really going to... meet her future inws?

    She felt a bit resistant to this, after all, her family background was quite different from Gu Junming��s. What if she gets disliked? Mainly, she doesn��t want Gu Junming to have any more conflicts with his family.

    Gu Junming reassured her a bit, telling her not to worry: "I��m choosing my own wife; it��s got nothing to do with them. Do you have the confidence to walk this path with me?"

    "Alright. I��ll do my best," Sun Chan smiled: "Don��t worry, although I seem clumsy, I��m actually quite strong."

    Gu Junmingughed: "Rest assured, I will definitely protect you with all my strength."

    After exchanging a few words, Gu Junming had to get busy, and they had to hang up the phone.

    Sun Chan paid fifty cents to the phone booth operator and walked back quickly, her heart pounding with excitement. She pressed her hand against her chest, constantly telling herself, don��t be afraid, you��ll be someone who can support Gu Junming.

    In the afternoon, Sun Chan heard the sound of banging on the door outside; it turned out Han Dong had arrived, having hired a tricycle to bring over several boxes of fruit.

    Sun Chan quickly went out to greet him: "So soon!"

    "Yeah, my goods just got transported here, so I��m delivering them to you," Han Dong had calmed down quite a bit thesest few days. Unable to be with her, he decided to be a good business partner. He also understood that his feelings for Sun Chan didn��t necessarily equate to love. He just felt she wasn��t doing so well and had some sympathy for her.

    Besides, he didn��t want to lose her as a friend, so he cheerfully came to see her.

    He pointed to the fruits inside: "There��s a box of apples here, these are oranges, thirty pounds, freshly picked, and this big box is fifty pounds of tomatoes. They all look good to me. Each box is twenty yuan. I��m giving them to you at cost."

    Sun Chan smiled: "You don��t make any money, aren��t you busy for nothing? You should ask for more."

    But Han Dong shook his hand: "No need. I have arge volume, so I��ve already made a profit. Actually, I didn��t even want to take your money, but I know you wouldn��t agree. Don��t be polite with me."

    Sun Chan had no choice but to agree, and together with Han Dong, they carried the fruit into a small warehouse room, which was colder and could preserve them.

    "Sell them first, if they sell well, I��ll bring more over."

    Sun Chanughed: "I don��t know yet, likely not easy to sell. There are plenty of people selling fruit now."

    "True, but don��t worry, these fruits are not easy to spoil." Han Dong had carefully selected these fruits for her, fearing she might lose money.

    As they were talking, Guihua came back, carrying a bunch of food and a pile of pots and bowls. She wiped her sweat while walking: "Oh my, I��m exhausted."

    Sun Chan quickly went to help her: "What are you doing, bringing back so many things? Aren��t you worried about overworking yourself?"

    "I brought back a pot, a pair of bowls, and some vegetables like cabbage and potatoes. Can��t eat yours every day," she looked up and saw Han Dong, smiled: "Who��s this youngd? Looks pretty good! Your boyfriend?"

    Sun Chan frantically shook her head: "No, just a friend."

    "I do wish, but sadly he already belongs to someone else," Han Dong said cheekily.

    "Hmm, you��re not bad too." Guihua nced at him, thinking that she doesn��t know whether Sun Chan��s boyfriend is better than this. If not, she��d decisively let her give up on him and go with this young man.

    Han Dong asked if there was anything he could help with, and Sun Chan showed him the bicycle: "This bike I bought isn��t really in good shape."

    "Alright, I��ll help you check it out. By the way, do you know how to use scales? If you don��t know how to use scales when selling goods, it��s a disaster."

    Sun Chan was embarrassed: "Not really. I��ve just realized I don��t know anything."

    "That��s easy, I��ll teach you!" Guihuaughed as she came over. She used to sell mountain goods with Wang Dabao before, so she knows how to use scales. She pulled Sun Chan over and taught her which weights represent one pound, which ones are several ounces. Sun Chan quickly memorized it and got it right after a few tries.

    "Besides knitting socks, you have to learn to do ounts; no one buys things in whole numbers. You need to handle slight off amounts," Guihua taught her calction skills for half a day, finally seeing some effect.

    Sun Chan also listened attentively, cooking while practicing.

    Han Dong also added on the side: "Remember, be brave, don��t feel sorry, we��re here to make money."

    "I��ll remember," Sun Chan said gratefully: "If it weren��t for you guys, I really wouldn��t know what to do."

    Guihuaughed: "Just wait until you earn money, treat us to a meal."

    "Sure!" Sun Chan quickly agreed.

    For dinner, Han Dong stayed to eat, they had steamed rice, cabbage, and tofu stew. In addition, Guihua brought back some mushrooms, and made mushroom soup.

    The three of them had a meal together. Han Dong and Guihua are both in business, so they seemed to sharemon topics, chatting about many things from the South, while Sun Chan listened quietly, finding it all fascinating.

    Han Dong heard that Sun Chan would be meeting her inws this weekend and asked, "Are you scared? How about I go with you? If anyone bullies you, I��ll speak out for you!" he said, patting his chest.

    Guihua couldn��t help butugh: "Are you kidding? How could you apany her to meet her inws?" Then she couldn��t help worrying and looked at Sun Chan: "But honestly, this isn��t easy. They��re high-ranking people living in bigpounds, with high status. If they say something unpleasant, just bear it; if it��s really unbearable, just forget it..."

    Sun Chan smiled: "I��ve already mentally prepared myself, sister, don��t worry."

    Han Dong sneered: "Does having a good status mean they are necessarily good people? I don��t think so; there are those with good conditions where I live, but they��re vile."

    "Really? How are they vile?" Guihua asked curiously.

    But Han Dong waved his hand: "Forget it, they��re filthy matters. Let��s not tell Sun Chan, we shouldn��t pollute her innocent little heart."

    Sun Chan couldn��t help blushing: "What are you talking about? I��m not a child." Living two lifetimes, she didn��t think there��s anything she shouldn��t hear.

    But Han Dong justughed silently, not intending to borate.

 Chapter 101: Filth

    <h4>Chapter 101: Chapter 101: Filth</h4><h4></h4>

    Actually, what he��s talking about is precisely the matter with Zhao Yingjun across the street. Although he hasn��t seen it, and his parents haven��t been very detailed, a few words are enough to understand.

    Ever since Zhao Yingjun��s wife��s niece Su Miao moved in, he��s been leavingte and returning early every day, especially good to the people at home, always filled withughter and happiness.

    Just the day before yesterday at noon, when Han Dong��s mom Tian Jinhua was going home, she happened to see Zhao Yingjun��s house had the door unlocked, and he was holding Su Miao��s hand. Su Miao was extremely flustered, pushed Zhao Yingjun away, and Tian Jinhua left immediately. She told her husband as soon as she got home.

    Han Jinshan frowned and then put down the newspaper: "Don��t spread gossip arbitrarily."

    Tian Jinhua curled her lips: "Am I just bored? Just telling you."

    These few words were overheard by Han Dong, and he instantly understood this dirty affair. Although he��s quite a flirt, it��s all consensual; there��s nothing as disgusting as involving with younger rtives!

    His wife is pregnant too, but this isn��t something he can tell Sun Chan.

    And he doesn��t know Sun Chan knows this Su Miao. Right then, he changed the subject.

    Guihua asked Han Dong: "When are you going to get fruits again?"

    "I��ll go tomorrow." Han Dong was eating mushrooms voraciously: "Do you want me to bring anything?"

    "Yeah, I��d like you to bring me some illustrated magazines rted to decoration, since we want to make the lodge look nice and trendy." Guihua had saved a lot of money over the years, so she didn��t care about the price, just the effect.

    "Alright!" Han Dong smiled at Sun Chan: "What about you? Want anything?"

    Sun Chan thought for a moment and smiled: "I also want to read books, get me some textbooks."

    Han Dong agreed without hesitation; it��s nothing.

    Guihua nced at Han Dong and said with a smile: "I think you��re quite a good young man. Let me introduce you to someone."

    Han Dongughed: "Big sis, Ick everything but not girls, you don��t have to worry about that."

    His eyes quickly nced over Sun Chan; he couldn��t forget her for now and didn��t want anyone else, better to develop his career first.

    Guihua knew well but smiled and said nothing. Sun Chan was thinking about business for tomorrow and didn��t notice the looks between them.

    They were in good spirits, but Su Miao felt terrible.

    She came here for a promising future; Gu Junming had helped her find a canteen job, but she couldn��t start until next month. Initially afraid of being disliked by her aunt, but her uncle didn��t mind; it��s just her aunt��s expressions were unpleasant, often making her do chores, nitpicking, asionally saying hurtful things. Su Miao, pampered since childhood, has been doing all sorts of work here and feeling quite tired.

    Especially now that her aunt is increasingly unfriendly, she feels both angry and nervous. What should she do?

    She didn��t bring much money, so she didn��t dare move to an inn directly, unsure when she��d receive her sry.

    If not, go find Gu Junming? Su Miao thought, maybe if she yed pitiful, Gu Junming wouldn��t ignore her. If she could be closer to him and something happened, that would be great, having him responsible for her future.

    She gradually started thinking of leaving, and Gu Junming had previously written a letter home, so she had already found out where his unit was.

    Who would have thought just the day before yesterday, something happened. While sweeping, Zhao Yingjun unexpectedly grabbed her hand!

    Although she quickly pushed him away, this incident stuck in her mind like a thorn. She is now extremely angry and disgusted but vaguely proud. After all, her looks are stunning; otherwise, this well-experienced man wouldn��t be attracted. Can she use this for some benefit? Ideally, find a good job.

    So she didn��t rush to leave, contemting how to gain advantage.

    Su Jinxiu took a nap, came out with her big belly, and saw Su Miao squatting over there mopping the floor, her figure slender, skin fair, thinking about her husband��s recent kindness to Su Miao, her anger surged fiercely.

    "Such cold weather, why are you leaving the door open? Want to freeze me?"

    "No, I��m mopping here, opening the door to let the floor dry faster..."

    "Can��t you squeeze the cloth a bit drier? I��m pregnant now, catching a cold will affect the baby. You��re grown up, don��t you know this?"

    Su Junxiu looked at Su Miao��s young, beautiful face, seething with hatred. Zhao Yingjun��s temper had been good recently, no longer disdaining her for being from the vige buting home earlier, but not because of her pregnancy, because of this Su Miao!

    She��s now fat and bloated, certainly inferior to this little flower. And this little flower is her niece!

    Su Miao wasn��t patient either, swallowed her anger, closed the door, and returned to her small room silently.

    She sat at the edge of the bed, filled with agitated emotions. Better to leave soon! Her aunt treated her like this, wouldn��t let her uncle help her, and even if he agreed, it probably wouldn��t work. After much contemtion, the only way was through Gu Junming.

    If she couldn��t find a chief like Gu Junming, she could at least rely on him to find a decent position.

    Thinking of this, Su Miao packed her luggage and went inside, coincidentally meeting Zhao Yingjun returning, carrying a bag full of chicken, duck, fish, and meat, along with two bags obviously containing clothes, he looked at her smiling.

    "I got off work early today, bought clothes for you all."

    Su Miao initially intended to say she was leaving, but Zhao Yingjun took out the clothes: "Look, coats for you and your aunt, one each."

    They were two cashmere coats, one red and one ck, very stylish, clearly not cheap.

    Su Miao liked the clothes very much, making it hard to say she was leaving.

    Zhao Yingjun shoved the clothes to Su Miao: "Try them on! These kinds of clothes aren��t often in the mall, if the size doesn��t fit, we should exchange them quickly."

    "But uncle, this is too valuable; I can��t ept it." Such a coat would cost at least one and a half months of a worker��s sry; she couldn��t afford it, but it was too lovely, making her hesitate.

    "No need for courtesies. You��ve worked hard taking care of your aunt recently; this is a thank-you gift. But why are you holding a bag?" Zhao Yingjun finally noticed her bag.

    Su Miao hesitated: "Actually, I n to stay elsewhere for a while. I��ll be working soon, can��t stay here forever, besides my aunt is about to give birth."

 Chapter 102: Aunt and Niece

    <h4>Chapter 102: Chapter 102: Aunt and Niece</h4><h4></h4>

    "Then you definitely can��t leave! I��m counting on you to take care of your aunt. Why are you leaving now?" Zhao Yingjun raised his voice towards the door of his wife��s bedroom, "You, a young girl, came to seek refuge with us, and now you��re leaving after staying a few days. If people find out, won��t they criticize us? Did your aunt say something? Jinxiu,e out! Did you say something to her?"

    Su Miao hurriedly said, "No, Aunt has been very nice to me..."

    "Don��t worry about it. I��ll talk to her myself." Zhao Yingjun grabbed her arm and pressed her down on the sofa, then walked toward his wife��s room.

    Su Jinxiu, holding her waist, came out. She had actually heard the noises outside for a while. Hearing that Su Miao was leaving made her initially quite happy, but upon realizing Zhao Yingjun was concerned, it affected her profoundly, and she walked out with a stern expression.

    "I didn��t dare let her leave; I didn��t even know what was going on here. Su Miao, tell me, how did I offend you to make you say such things in front of your uncle?"

    Su Miao stood up and said, "Aunt, it��s not like that. I��m about to start work, and I can��t stay at your ce forever. I really didn��t mean it; I just didn��t want to trouble you..."

    "Don��t say that. I��ve never disliked you. I have a big belly and can��t go out; I��m counting on you to keep mepany." Su Jinxiu held Su Miao��s hand gently and said warmly. In her heart, she cursed, "Wretch, you��re nothing but a fox spirit. If you don��t want trouble, then leave quickly. Now that my husband is back, you��re starting to act? Just a cheap woman who knows how to seduce her own man!"

    Su Miao wasn��t naive; she could see her aunt��s hidden animosity. Tears almost came down, from both grievance and anger. How did I offend you? Is it just because Uncle likes me? Everyone in the vige says this aunt is lucky, but it doesn��t seem that way.

    "Alright, I say you can stay if you stay! Why all the fuss?" Zhao Yingjun frowned, "This is my home. Is having a rtive stay here causing you trouble? Jinxiu, you��ll annoy everyone like this, is that what you want? You��re pregnant, so I won��t argue with you. The niece will stay here; don��t say more."

    Su Jinxiu��s chest heaved in anger, "When did I say she wasn��t wee? Su Miao, you just stay here. If you don��t, your uncle might even divorce me!" After speaking, she mmed the door and went back to her room.

    Su Miao nervously nced at Zhao Yingjun.

    Zhao Yingjun patted her shoulder and said in a low voice, "When I held your hand earlier, it wasn��t intentional��I was just concerned for you, definitely didn��t mean anything. Feel free to stay here; your aunt is pregnant, so understand she��s not in a good mood."

    Su Miao nodded, looked down without saying a word, unsure whether to trust him.

    "Go change your clothes, and I��ll make chicken for you all." Zhao Yingjun said and then headed to the kitchen with the ingredients. He was a veteran at this, never attacking aggressively at first��he preferred being indirect and wanted Su Miao to gradually ept him. So he didn��t rush to get closer to her.

    The kitchen soon emitted waves of meat aroma.

    In the vige, how could Su Miao eat meat every few days? Her resolve wavered a bit.

    She nced at her aunt��s room, then looked at the clothes in her hand, deciding not to leave. If she did, where could she get to eat meat, poultry, and fish every day? Who would buy her clothes?

    Anyway, it��s just a few days until I settle at the factory, and then I��ll leave.

    Su Miao made up her mind, feeling toozy to please her aunt, and went back to her small room with her bag.

    Since it seems there��s no good will towards me, why say anything to Su Jinxiu? It��s all in vain, just a waste of effort.

    Unable to meet Gu Junming, Su Miao decided to write him a letter, telling him about being edged out by her aunt. Surely, it would arouse his sympathy and help create a good impression first.

    While Su Miao schemed about Gu Junming, another woman was thinking about Gu Junming in the same way.

    Bai Fann was sitting on the sofa reading a newspaper, but she couldn��t focus on a single word. Her mind was filled with what Grandpa had told herst night.

    Bai Chuan said, "I heard Gu Junming ns to bring his girlfriend home this weekend. He��s at an age where this time, it��s likely leading to marriage."

    Bai Fann was stunned at that moment, and then a storm of excruciating pain swept through her heart, driving her insane as if countless needles were piercing her mind. She clenched her fists so tightly that her nails dug into her flesh.

    Why? Why doesn��t he ept me? How could he have a new girlfriend so quickly! Could it be Sun Chan? No way! Their family wouldn��t ept a woman like her.

    Bai Chuan added, "You��re now engaged to Wang Hu, and the wedding is imminent. Don��t involve yourself with unnecessary distractions and don��t meddle in his affairs, or it might cause conflict if Wang Hu finds out."

    "No!" Bai Fann instinctively refuted, "When have I ever cared about his affairs? I��ve long cut off contact."

    "Do you really think I don��t know?" Bai Chuan said sternly, "You��ve been inquiring about his matters in the military; this is something I��mpletely aware of. If I know, Wang Hu certainly will too. Stop meddling! Or you��ll lose the marriage with Wang Hu, and what future will you have?" Bai Fann, albeit resentful, couldn��t refuse.

    Just the thought of Wang Hu made Bai Fann��s heart burn.

    Given his high status, it wasn��t hard for him to find out anything, but sadly, he had never shown any interest in Bai Fann��s affairs. His mind was consumed by work, treating dates with Bai Fann like duties. He would meet up only to leave soon after; even calls were scarce during the week. Bai Fann��s inherent romantic nature and longing for love were gradually crushed to nothing.

    She gingerly asked her grandfather, "What if I break up with Wang Hu?"

    "What are you saying?" Bai Chuan��s eyes widened, "Don��t joke around. What��s going on now, you��re about to get married in less than two months, and you��re thinking of canceling? Do you want the Bai Family to lose face?"

    Bai Fann quicklyughed, "I��m joking, Grandpa. Look how worked up you��ve gotten."

    "Whether it��s a joke or not, put those thoughts away quickly!" Bai Chuan did not soften his tone, "Everyone knows about the two of you now. If you really separate, he can just find another girl, but where does that leave you? Do you think you can marry into such a distinguished family again?"

    Of course, Bai Fann understood she wouldn��t be able to. This marriage to Wang Hu was already reaching above her station. But she truly wasn��t reconciled to it; who wants to spend a lifetime with someone who��s oblivious to romance?

 Chapter 103 Selling Fruit

    <h4>Chapter 103: Chapter 103 Selling Fruit</h4><h4></h4>

    The moment she thought about the fiery days she was living now, she hated Gu Junming even more!

    Looking at the newspaper in her hand, she thought to herself, no matter what, she had to know if Gu Junming was going to take Sun Chan��s family along.

    If it really is that wretch, she must find a way to break them up. If I��m not happy, you can��t be either!

    When Bai Chuan went downstairs, he saw his granddaughter grim-faced while staring at the newspaper, not knowing what she was thinking. But he didn��t approach her, as long as she sessfully married Wang Hu, everything could be discussed. Her obsession with Gu Junming would naturally fade once he got married.

    Sun Chan over there didn��t know about Bai Fann��s curse and got up around three o��clock.

    She first started steaming the rice, then tidied up her bicycle, taking three types of fruit to sell, about ten pounds each, ced them in a basket, covered them with a small nket, and secured them on the back seat of the bike, then put the scale inside as well.

    Sun Chan had been saving up change during this time, always using whole bills when buying things, keeping all the change in her pocket to useter for giving out change. As she kindled the fire, she pondered which route to take today.

    When Guihua got up, Sun Chan had already sliced the potatoes, ready to put them in the pot.

    "You got up without waking me? Why are you so diligent? Let me cook! You go freshen up." Guihua quickly went over.

    Sun Chan chuckled, "I��m just used to it." She washed her face, then wrote a letter to Yang Liu, nning to ask her if she wanted to partner with Guihua to do business, and also requested her to greet Mr. Yan on her behalf.

    Mr. Yan was very kind to Sun Chan, and when she left, she didn��t inform him, which made her feel a bit guilty. She ced the letter carefully, nning to mail it when passing the post office.

    Once the meal was ready, the two of them had a simple meal by the stove.

    "Shall I go with you?" Guihua seemed a little uneasy.

    Sun Chan shook her head with a smile, "No need, I only took ten pounds of each fruit, if I can��t sell them all, I��ll juste back. You should focus on your own tasks. The kids need proper attention too, right?"

    Guihua sighed, "You know, I have a few brothers helping out here. But you have to rely on yourself."

    "You guys are helping me as well. I��m fine." Sun Chan replied indifferently; she was full of energy now.

    Having eaten, Sun Chan wrapped a scarf around her face. It was already November, the weather was quite cold, and given that she would be going home with Gu Junming over the weekend, she didn��t want her face to get too chilled.

    She loaded the fruits onto her bicycle and went out, wandering through the streets selling fruits and tomatoes. Thanks to Han Dong��s assistance, she got them all at cost price, so her fruits were two cents cheaper per pound than those at the mall, selling for a dor a pound.

    At first, she felt embarrassed to shout out, but after a while, it became unnecessary, she couldn��t just wait for people toe and ask.

    Back then, people��s living conditions weren��t great, fruit was considered a luxury, but her fruits were quite popr due to their lower prices.

    The men were at work, while women and elderly folks would buy a few pieces for their kids to taste.

    Sun Chan was busy weighing and collecting money, feeling quite delighted.

    Her bicycle wasn��t very well maintained, making it heavy and slow, so she decided to stay in the nearby bungalow area and shout slowly, not nning to go too far. With over thirty pounds of fruit, more than half of it was sold quickly, surprisingly good business.

    Just as she was shouting, a woman in a floral shirt came out from inside, "How much for the persimmons?"

    "One dor a pound." Sun Chan replied with a smile.

    The woman frowned, "That��s expensive, fifteen ounces for two pounds, I��ll buy more." She said, grabbing two persimmons.

    Sun Chan shook her head with a smile, "I wouldn��t make any profit doing that, I can��t sell them like that." She turned to leave.

    The woman pouted disapprovingly, "Swindler."

    As Sun Chan was walking away, she suddenly noticed a pile of scrap iron in the woman��s yard, mainly pieces, wires, and some steel cables she couldn��t name, feeling intrigued. She turned back andughed, "Why do you have so many scrap materials at home?"

    "My husband works as a machinist; he brought some unused materials from work. Why, do you want them?"

    Sun Chan chuckled, "Yes, if you��re willing to give them to me, I��ll trade with you."

    At the time, iron was worth twenty cents, but Sun Chan knew that within a few months, the construction industry here would rapidly develop, and scrap iron prices would soar quickly, peaking at one dor twenty per pound. Many people made fortunes by collecting scrap iron, seeing the woman��s yard filled with such materials sparked her idea.

    She considered umting them first, then selling them when the prices rose.

    The woman was naturally willing, "My husband brings these home every now and then, but the scrap collectors don��t want them, they��re heavier than wine bottles yet worthless. If you want them, I��ll give them to you."

    "Alright! I��ll give you more."

    The woman quickly agreed and went inside to fetch the scrap iron.

    Sun Chan calcted them at twenty-two cents each, and with all the odds and ends weighing a little over twenty pounds, Sun Chan calcted four and a half pounds of fruit for her, also gifting her tworge persimmons.

    The woman carried a big bag of fruits, "You really are generous! Be sure toe by again, my husband brings them home every so often."

    Sun Chan agreed and pushed the bike to leave. Such heavy materials naturally needed to be put back at home.

    She pushed the bike to the alley entrance, leaned against a pole to rest, and prepared to take out the keys. Unexpectedly, the bike suddenly ttered, almost falling to the ground, scaring Sun Chan into quickly supporting it. If it had fallen, it would be quite challenging to pick it up.

    Just when it seemed hopeless, fortunately, a big hand reached over, held the bike handle, and kept it upright. Sun Chan was about to express her gratitude, but upon turning around, she smiled right away.

    Gu Junming smiled warmly at her, Sun Chan was both surprised and delighted, "Why are you here?"

    "I have a mission, but I came to see you first."

    "You��re so busy, you shouldn��t have."

    "It��s alright, I have an hour." Gu Junming nced at his watch and pushed the bike forward, "I also wanted to see what your ce looks like."

    "But we haven��t tidied up well, I hope you don��t mind." Sun Chan cheerfully took out the keys to open the door.

    Gu Junming looked around; although it wasn��t arge house, the venttion was quite good, and it wasn��t damp; the coal blocks in the coal cer seemed few, but there was still plenty of grain and vegetables inside. This slightly reassured him.

 Chapter 104 Sweetness

    <h4>Chapter 104: Chapter 104 Sweetness</h4><h4></h4>

    Walking inside, she saw the bedroom was tidied up quite nicely. The second-hand chairs and cabs they bought were all wiped clean, and covered with cotton cloth, giving off a very cozy feeling.

    Sun Chan poured a ss of water for Gu Junming: "Have some water. Is it a bit simple here?"

    "How could it be? You��ve seen my ce. It��s not as good as here. This ce even has a ceiling. Houses in the vige don��t use shavings, it gets really cold in winter." He smiled faintly.

    Sun Chan smiled and said, "Then in winter, let��s send some money back to have your parents put a ceiling inside. Otherwise, it��s easy to catch a cold. There��s still a kid at home, Kangkang is so small."

    Gu Junming shook his head: "I have sent quite a lot of money home, but they are reluctant to spend it. They just save it, no matter what I say, they don��t listen to me, it��s frustrating."

    Not having seen her for several days, she was still so considerate, remembering his nephew, Gu Junming felt very touched.

    "Then let��s go back! We can do it ourselves, that would be fine." Sun Chan was already thinking about how to do it. In her past life, she had seen others do it��buy some shavings first, then redo the ceiling with wooden boards.

    While she was lost in thought, everything suddenly went dark as she was firmly embraced by a pair of arms.

    "Can��t you hear me talking?"

    "I was distracted, thinking about fixing the ceiling." Sun Chan was really startled and struggled lightly: "What are you doing? What if someone sees us?"

    Gu Junming chuckled: "Who would see? Don��t you like me holding you?"

    "No, I just didn��t expect..." Sun Chan��s voice trembled a bit. She didn��t expect Gu Junming to suddenly hold her. But given their rtionship, intimacy was inevitable.

    Gu Junmingughed: "You��re my girlfriend, we��re supposed to spend a lifetime together. I can��t say much else, but I can promise I��ll be good to you for a lifetime." He gently patted her back and stroked her hair, which was very smooth.

    Sun Chan gently hugged his waist: "Yes, I��ll be good to you too, and to your family."

    Gu Junming tightened his grip, holding her slender waist tightly. He wished he could merge her into his own body, but was afraid of hurting her. This girl had captured his heart from the first time he saw her. He worried about her being alone outside, feared her foster mother and sister might bully her, and was anxious she might choose another man who treated her well over him.

    From the moment she didn��t oppose dating him, he finally felt at ease. Confident in her identity as his fianc��e, he could treat her well, and he was very happy, so he spoke out directly.

    "I really wish you could marry me soon?"

    Sun Chan smiled: "I can��t, you have to wait. I��ll only be eighteen after the new year. I can��t marry yet."

    "Okay, I��ll wait for you." Gu Junming kissed her forehead. Sun Chan��s face instantly turned as red as an apple.

    In her past life, although she married Zheng Jinzhu, he showed no tenderness, caring only about having children. So Sun Chan knew almost nothing about romantic feelings between men and women. Being treated this way by Gu Junming made her nervous, but she still gently responded to his kindness.

    Seeing her embarrassment, Gu Junming felt a bit embarrassed too, so he let her go and sat her down beside him.

    "Sorry, I got a bit carried away earlier."

    Sun Chan quickly waved her hand: "No, I wasn��t ming you. I... I really like it."

    "I��m heading back soon, haven��t had dinner yet." Gu Junming smiled at her.

    Sun Chan eximed and quickly got up: "Sorry, Ipletely forgot. I��ll go make you something to eat now."

    Gu Junmingughed and pulled her hand: "I was kidding, I��ve already eaten. I just think you��re really cute when you��re flustered. You really seem like a little wife."

    Sun Chan spat lightly, then couldn��t help butugh. She did act a bit silly just now.

    Looking at her face, Gu Junming��s heart softened; he wanted to kiss her rosy lips, but he restrained himself, fearing of rming the already panicked girl.

    Even though Gu Junming said he had eaten, Sun Chan still went to the kitchen, turning the leftover morning rice into soy sauce fried rice, and made a persimmon egg soup. She brought it to the table for Gu Junming.

    Gu Junming nced at it and said with a smile: "You make food look really good."

    "It��s nothing special, just home cooking. Eat up." Sun Chan smiled and said, "I��ll make some pickles tomorrow, do you like sauerkraut? I can make dumplings for you."

    Gu Junming ate heartily: "Sure, if there are radishes and cucumbers, pickle some of those too. If there��s extra, I��ll take some home." Gu Junming dly started eating, although it was a simple meal, he was very happy eating it. He finished a big bowl and drank tworge bowls of soup.

    Sun Chan smiled: "Alright, will fifty pounds of radishes and peppers be enough? It��s a bitte to buy now; autumn vegetables are usually bought in October."

    "It��s not toote now, the weather��s warm this year."

    Gu Junming and Sun Chan chatted about autumn vegetables for a while. They were both from farming backgrounds, familiar with such matters.

    After they finished eating, Gu Junming fixed Sun Chan��s bicycle again, much better than before. She was startled by the amount of scrap metal.

    He was a bit surprised: "How did you gather so much stuff?"

    "Well, prices will rise soon, I want to make some money." Sun Chan grinned: "Then we can have some extra ie."

    "Alright, just don��t overwork yourself." He said with a smile.

    Sun Chan nodded, watching Gu Junming neatly cing the iron pieces and wires at the entrance of the storeroom, thinking it was much more organized than the woman��s house before, and didn��t take up much space.

    An hour passed quickly. Gu Junming washed his hands, getting ready to leave.

    Sun Chan felt a bit reluctant, following him out through several alleys. Gu Junming turned back to her: "Go back. I��lle pick you up on Sunday. You don��t need to buy anything; I��ve already bought it. Juste with me."

    Sun Chan��s face warmed, nodding in agreement.

    Gu Junming wanted to give her another hug, but since it was still a public street, he just squeezed her hand and quietly told her, "Be sure not to catch a cold. It doesn��t matter if we don��t earn money, just don��t wear yourself out. I��ve been thinking of you."

    Sun Chan softly replied, "I��ve been thinking of you too."

 Chapter 105 Meeting

    <h4>Chapter 105: Chapter 105 Meeting</h4><h4></h4>

    "I know. I��m leaving, take care of yourself, wait for me toe over." He finished speaking and took her hand.

    "Alright, you take care too. Don��t worry about me." Sun Chanughed.

    When Gu Junming turned his hand, she felt a coolness on her wrist, looked down and saw that it was a watch, identical to Gu Junming��s. She couldn��t help but smile, remembering how she had used the watch to make Zhao Xiuxia think she made money selling monkey-head mushrooms. She wanted to say something, but unfortunately Gu Junming had already walked away.

    Sun Chan touched the watch, her heart filled with a sweet feeling, knowing when someone truly cares for another, it��s palpable. Knowing that Gu Junming was thinking of her, her heart was full of happiness, and even her steps on the way home became lighter.

    In the afternoon, Sun Chan tidied up a bit, packed up some fruits, and continued pushing her cart to sell them. The business wasn��t great in the afternoon, with few buyers. Sun Chan wasn��t anxious, as she walked around the streets and alleys. Her voice was clear and crisp.

    Almost every household had their doors open, drying autumn vegetables. This time, she paid attention to see if the other families had scrap metal, if they did, she would ask if they wanted to trade it for some fruits. Just like in the morning, many people were pleased. Fruits were rare back then, and scrap metal could easily be brought from work, but it was heavy, took up space, and didn��t sell well, not as much as wine bottles.

    So Sun Chan��s business improved, pushing out dozens of pounds of fruit, and returning with a heavier load. The back seat of her cart was filled with iron wires and iron pieces.

    Guihua had already returned, washing clothes in the yard. Seeing Sun Chan pushing her cart back, she was startled, wiped her hands on her pants, and quickly greeted her, "What are you doing with this? It��s so heavy, can your small frame handle it?"

    Sun Chan giggled and said, "It��s fine! Just leave these iron pieces for now, they��re bound to rise in price."

    Guihua didn��t mind the small money, "You sure know how to make deals. You��ve be a scrap collector."

    "I��ll only do this once," Sun Chan thought to herself, once everyone knows these are going to rise in price, they won��t sell to her anymore.

    Sun Chan helped Guihua finish washing the clothes and hung them in the yard, then went inside together. She had already cooked at her mother��s home, with leek boxes and some brought chili sauce, the taste was great.

    The two just ate like that.

    Guihua told Sun Chan, "I looked around a few ces and none seemed right, a bit pricey. Tomorrow I��ll go check elsewhere, maybe near the train station. If not, the bus station."

    "Alright, if you need my help, just say so." Sun Chan was also hungry, devouring several leek boxes.

    Guihua was quite satisfied, smiling, "You, girl, seem easy to please. If I still had a brother, I��d introduce you to him. Wouldn��t it be nice to have you as a sister-inw?"

    "Don��t joke around, Guihua. I know nothing, you��re always helping me, sis."

    Guihua noticed the watch on Sun Chan��s wrist, but didn��t mention it, changing the subject instead.

    At night, when she was resting, she remembered she forgot to send a letter to Yang Liu, what a mess! She quickly took the envelope out, ced it by her pillow, nning to send it for sure the next day.

    That afternoon, Gu Junming returned to the barracks, in high spirits. His feelings for Sun Chan had grown stronger. But his good mood ended at the barracks�� gate when he saw an uninvited guest.

    Gu Junming��s brow immediately furrowed. It was Bai Fann. He disliked this woman; he was indifferent to her before, but now he was somewhat repulsed.

    Bai Fann looked thinner, dressed in a beige trench coat, appearing very elegant and with poise.

    But Gu Junming saw in her eyes a sort of indignation; he had rejected her, someone with good conditions, for a country girl, and she had never been happy about it. Otherwise, she wouldn��t have repeatedly shown animosity towards Sun Chan.

    Seeing him, Bai Fann walked over with a smile, "Hello, long time no see, how have you been?" She tried to act dignified, but her voice shook; she was now engaged and hardly saw Gu Junming, but he was still doing well, proving she meant nothing to him.

    Not acknowledging it at first, she now had no choice but to face reality.

    Gu Junming replied coolly, "Pretty good. Is there something you need?"

    "I actually heard you��re bringing your girlfriend home, so I came to ask. Is it true?" Bai Fann knew Gu Junming was direct, and talking nonsense would only make him more annoyed.

    Gu Junming nodded, "Your information is quite up-to-date, was it Wang Hu who told you?"

    "Not him, my grandfather knew. Anyway, we��ve grown up together, it��s inevitable I��d be concerned about your matters. Is it Sun Chan?" she forced a smile, questioning why she had to mention her in front of me?

    Are you afraid I have any intentions towards you?

    Gu Junming said, "Yes, it��s Sun Chan. I really like her and want to marry her. I always have to bring her to meet my parents."

    Although Bai Fann was mentally prepared, hearing him say it aloud, her heart ached. She bit her lip, clenched her fists, asking herself - why? What��s so good about her that makes you do this? Where am I inferior to this poor and lowly person?

    But those words, Bai Fann couldn��t bring herself to ask, only showing a faint expression of worry.

    "Is that so, but your parents won��t agree. Gu Junming, I know you��re not one to listen to advice, but I must say, you should give up. Think about it, what kind of person is Sun Chan? What kind of family are you from? How could they agree to this? This action will only humiliate Sun Chan."

    Gu Junming smirked, looking at Bai Fann, "And? Are you suggesting I break up with her?"

    "Prolonging the pain isn��t better than enduring it for a short time. Despite being from the countryside, Sun Chan isn��t simple-minded. I��ve noticed it many times, she gave up on her vige suitor, clinging to your good prospects. She��s indeed a scheming person and will do anything to stay by your side this time! You really can��t continue like this, listen to me, it��s for your own good. We��ve known each other for years, would I lead you astray?"

    Gu Junming��s heart was burning with anger. She was the one who revealed Sun Chan��s whereabouts yet spoke self-righteously! She almost got her killed, and now has the nerve to speak ill of her! Sun Chan, though, hadn��t said a word about her.

 Chapter 106: Aggrieved

    <h4>Chapter 106: Chapter 106: Aggrieved</h4><h4></h4>

    Bai Fann kept on going, unable to understand why Gu Junming could ept a woman like that: poor, deceitful, and vain! If I say a bit more, as long as Gu Junming shows the slightest bit of doubt, it would be easier to handle this.

    "Besides, her family is a big problem too. Her adoptive mother and sister are difficult to deal with. Once they find out your identity in the future, they will definitely entangle endlessly with you, and by that time..."

    Gu Junming finally lost his patience and interrupted her: "I��ve known you for years, yet I didn��t realize your character was like this. Are you really a soldier? Are soldiers supposed to have your kind of quality? Can��t stand to see others doing well?"

    Bai Fann had a lot more to say, but upon hearing Gu Junming��s words, she immediately fell silent, her face turned pale, and she felt dizzy. What did Gu Junming mean by that? Saying I have no character? Is that how he sees me in his eyes?

    Gu Junming said, "There��s no need to talk about the past. We��re not that close, so you don��t need to worry about my future. Even if I end up picking someone bad and get unlucky, that would be my choice. If you continue to bother me, I��ll have a talk with Wang Hu and ask him how he manages his wife, who badmouths others every day. You��re a college student, acting like a shrew at the vige entrance, truly disappointing."

    After saying that, he left directly.

    Bai Fann was left trembling, and by the time she came to her senses, Gu Junming was long gone, and no one paid attention to her.

    The soldier standing guard at the door heard their conversation but remained unresponsive like a statue.

    Bai Fann turned away in pain, quickly walking forward, tears streaming down her face as she walked.

    She was truly in such pain and shame! The words Gu Junming said felt like ps on her face. Since attending Gu Junming��s grandfather��s birthday party and being rejected by Gu Junming when marriage was brought up by the elders, she had been humiliated constantly! Now, Gu Junming didn��t even care about the years of friendship and said such absolute, harsh words!

    Bai Fann was in unbearable pain, ultimately cing all the me on Sun Chan. If not for that bitch, she wouldn��t have been so unlucky; it was all because of her! She gritted her teeth, wishing she could tear Sun Chan to pieces.

    Just because she had some looks, she used vile and despicable means to take away Gu Junming!

    "I won��t let you have your way, I won��t let you marry into the Gu Family!" She made up her mind, wiped away her tears, and walked away resolutely. At first, she wanted to make a phone call but then decided to go in person, to let Sun Chan be directly humiliated by the Gu Family members, to let her taste the shame she had suffered!

    Bai Fann took a car back home, arriving at night,zily took off her shoes, and went inside. After all, X City was too far from here, so she was very tired and didn��t want to say much.

    Bai Chuan was sitting on the sofa, feeling unhappy, and asked as soon as he saw his granddaughter enter: "Where did you go?"

    Bai Fann was taken aback and then said, "I went to X City, what��s up? I finally got a day off, can��t I go wherever I want?"

    "Wang Hu came to pick you up today, saying it was his grandfather��s birthday. And you weren��t even there! How do you behave as someone��s daughter-inw?"

    Bai Fann was annoyed and sat on the sofa: "Aren��t we not married yet? Besides, he didn��t say so in advance, a call would have been enough. How would I know he had something on? I��m not supposed to wait like a subordinate at home, awaiting his arrangements, right? I��ll go wherever I want."

    Bai Chuan was a bit breathless: "You know what kind of family Wang Hu��s is, right? Shouldn��t you try to ingratiate and find out? His grandfather is a leader in the military, you could easily find out when his birthday is!"

    Bai Fann couldn��t hold it anymore, stood up, and said, "Grandfather, I��m marrying him, not bing the Wang Family��s servant! If he doesn��t tell me things, why should I be proactively digging around? Did his grandfather give me candy? Why should I curry favor? I do have a sry, why should I live so burdensomely?"

    Bai Chuan pped the table: "Because you are someone��s daughter-inw! You should do these things as a daughter-inw! I saw Wang Hu��s face didn��t look good when he left."

    "When has his face ever looked good?" Bai Fann retorted with a sarcastic smile.

    Wang Hu holds a high position, yet behaves like a block of wood, with no emotions involved, only looking for me when there is something needed or useful, without a single call normally. She had long thought of breaking the engagement countless times in her heart but knew it was really impossible now.

    Bai Chuan rubbed his forehead: "You��re aware of my difficult situation now, right? Look at the previous years during holidays, how many people came, and now look at this year, who��sing to our house? If you can��t hold onto Wang Hu, our family is finished. Without power, we��ll have to move out; you really want to live in a humble dwelling? Come and go by bicycle?"

    Bai Fann didn��t answer, sitting opposite Bai Chuan. Of course, she didn��t want to experience such hardships.

    Bai Chuan said, "I won��t say much more. I��ve prepared some gifts for you to take to Wang Hu tomorrow. I told him you went to X City for volunteer medical work, so don��t slip up." With that, he went upstairs.

    Bai Fann agreed, looking at the gifts in the corner, thinking of how Gu Junming defended Sun Chan, she was even more furious.

    The next day, when Wang Hu came to pick her up for work, Bai Fann naturally followed Bai Chuan��s instructions to exin things. Bai Chuan was urging from the side too: "This girl came backst night and wanted to call, but I didn��t let her since the old folks were definitely asleep. Don��t take it to heart, we work together after all, don��t let it interfere."

    Bai Fann also handed Wang Hu the gifts: "I know it was your grandfather��s birthday, but I was really caught up, these are some fine walnut powder and calcium tablets, good for the old gentleman��s health."

    She had applied some light makeup, her eyes glistening as she looked at Wang Hu.

    Wang Hu didn��t think much of it, just felt that it wasn��t good for the granddaughter-inw to be absent, but now knowing the reason, he nodded and epted the gifts, saying: "I was a bit disappointed yesterday, but thinking about it now, it��s indeed my fault, I didn��t mention it beforehand, I��m sorry."

    "It��s nothing," Bai Fann smiled: "We��re all family, why bother with the formalities? Let��s go, shall we have breakfast outside?"

    "Sure, what do you want to eat?"

    "Hmm, wonton, maybe."

    Bai Fann remembered that was what Gu Junming and Sun Chan were eating when she saw them.

    Wang Hu didn��t object, and the two left just like that.

    Bai Chuan watched them leave, nodding in satisfaction; as long as Wang Hu was concerned about her, everything would be fine.

 Chapter 107: Competition relationship No.107

    <h4>Chapter 107: Competition rtionship No.107</h4><h4></h4>

    Wang Hu and Bai Fann went out on a date, just as nd as before. Bai Fann asionally mustered up some courage to tell a couple of funny jokes, but Wang Hu just responded with a "hmm" and didn��t pay much attention.

    She started talking about the hospital��s matters, he didn��t understand. She asked about things he didn��t want to discuss, Wang Hu said it was confidential. She inquired about his parents�� health condition, Wang Hu said everything was fine.

    Bai Fann felt a rush of anger in her heart! It was as if mes were shooting up to her chest.

    But there was nothing she could do; he��s been like this since the first day they met. If she didn��t like it, they could just break up, right? But she wasn��t willing to let go, so she could only endure it.

    Bai Fann felt wronged and pained inside, but Wang Hu was oblivious, not even sensing it. He had something on his mind, ate halfway, and suddenly looked up at Bai Fann: "Have you seen Gu Junming recently?"

    Bai Fann was startled: "What did you say?" She gripped the spoon hard, fearing he knew she had gone to see Gu Junming. What if he got mad? By looking at Wang Hu, he didn��t seem like someone with a good temper. What if he broke up with me?

    Wang Hu didn��t continue to pursue it, calmly said: "Gu Junming and I are currentlypeting for a spot."

    The higher-ups want to establish a new unit in X City, a highly regarded new field army, which is a rare promotion opportunity. Wang Hu applied early on; who knew after the news broke, Gu Junming also put in an application, and another guy, Yan Kai, was also eyeing this opportunity, and quickly submitted an application too.

    Wang Hu analyzed that among the three of them, he held the highest position, but had mostly done desk jobs, which weren��t all that appealing; the most experienced was naturally Gu Junming, and the one most valued by the higher-ups was Yan Kai. It was really tricky, especially since Gu Junming and Yan Kai had achieved big sessst time at Xiong��er Ridge, earning high praises from above. Particrly Yan Kai, not only did he rescue women but also skillfully captured several criminals at the border. Truly promising.

    Wang Hu asked Bai Fann because he remembered that Bai Fann had a good rtionship with Gu Junming, so he casually asked. He wasn��t a sneaky person, wouldn��t do something like probing for information.

    Who knew Bai Fann was feeling guilty like a thief, thinking he was hostile towards Gu Junming and disliked her interacting with him. If he got angry, wouldn��t she lose her chance of bing the wife of a chief? She hurriedly said: "I just went to see him casually, without any other intentions. Don��t misunderstand me? Our two families have known each other for many years, I must go, as my grandfather insisted I do so." She first cleared herself by saying her grandfather asked her to do it. It had nothing to do with her.

    Wang Hu nodded, unconcernedly said: "Really? He didn��t mention what he��s busy with these days?"

    Bai Fann bit her lip and said: "Nothing much, he just said he��d bring his girlfriend home over the weekend for the old man to see."

    Wang Hu absentmindedly "hmm��ed". He personally wasn��t interested in it at all. Now the three of them werepeting to join that unit to umte opportunities for advancement, but it was unfortunate that at most only one person could go. Even if others were allowed for the sake of face, going in as an assistant might mean a worse future than now.

    Wang Hu tapped the table with his hand, his brows furrowed. Then he asked her: "Is your grandfather busy? Does he know about the establishment of the new unit recently?"

    Bai Fann shook her head: "My grandfather hasn��t told me about work matters, otherwise, should I ask for you?"

    "No need." Wang Hu nced at Bai Fann, not at all resembling someone from a prestigious family, timid to an extreme, but he only had one requirement for his wife, which was to continue the family line, nothing else mattered.

    Bai Fann looked at Wang Hu��s cold eyes, feeling unsure, smiled faintly and said: "I really have nothing to do with Gu Junming, don��t misunderstand, I��m going to marry you, why don��t you believe me?"

    Wang Hu looked at Bai Fann puzzled: "What are you talking about? I��m just thinking of when we can have a meal with Gu Junming. After all, we��re all in the military, not lovers." You must understand both yourself and others to always win.

    Bai Fann let out a breath,ughed and said: "Is that so? How about we go on the weekend, that��s probably when Gu Junming is free."

    "That��s not good." Wang Hu frowned and nced at Bai Fann: "Why get in the way of him meeting his girlfriend? Another day."

    "It��s not like you meet a girlfriend for a whole day, right? We could go early, and leave when he arrives. Or maybe in the evening? After all, Gu Junming is very busy, it��s not easy for him toe back, I��m doing this for your good." Bai Fann really wanted to see what kind of mess would ensue.

    Hopefully, Gu Zishan would get so angry and kick Sun Chan out, let her seduce Gu Junming! Put you to shame. Anyway, if I went there, I wouldn��t leave, you guys couldn��t drive me away, right?

    Wang Hu thought about it and agreed: "Then we��ll go early, meet and talk a bit then leave."

    "Alright then." Bai Fann smiled and lowered her head to eat.

    While Wang Hu was trying to probe into Gu Junming, at the same time, Yan Kai also wanted to see who could grasp this opportunity.

    Yan Kai of course knew that now the three of them werepeting for this position, he saw it very seriously but appeared very calm. At the moment, he was talking with Mr. Yan, who had recently not been at the sanatorium, but returned home, usually staying there for several months each year.

    Yan Kai peeled an apple for his father: "In short, that��s the kind of subtle rtionship we have. I too feel my chances aren��t great, but not impossible. After all, during the Xiong��er incident, my contribution was greater than Gu Junming��s."

    He risked his life capturing criminals at the border. As for Wang Hu? He didn��t even consider him,pletely out of question. If it weren��t for the Wang Family��s high status, Wang Hu would have been retired long ago.

    After listening to his son, Mr. Yan thought for a moment, frowned and said: "Wang Hu, although earnest, isn��t quick-witted, very rigid. Assigning him to thought education tasks is alright, but in managing a unit, hecks experience and capability. Mentioning him is merely giving face to Mr. Wang, he��s just a runner. If you want topete, do it with Gu Junming?"

    Yan Kai said: "Yes,st time we cooperated, and I realized he is indeed good, I have great respect for him."

    Even though he was in apetitive rtionship with Gu Junming, Yan Kai was a gentleman. He wouldn��t speak ill or say sarcastic words.

 Chapter 108 Worries

    <h4>Chapter 108: Chapter 108 Worries</h4><h4></h4>

    Yan Kaiughed, "I think this person is not only strong in ability but also excellent in choosing partners. Look at Sun Chan, she��s sensible and smart. I believe she will make a great couple in the future. Why didn��t you seize the opportunity well?"

    He had previously considered introducing Sun Chan to Yan Kai, but unfortunately, just as this idea emerged, Gu Junming reported a rtionship, saying they would marry when she turned twenty.

    Yan Kai just smiled after hearing this, but he didn��t agree in his heart. He thought Sun Chan, being an orphan, may have some advantages, but she had no support behind her, and he definitely wouldn��t marry a woman like that. He wanted to find someone at least equal to or slightly higher than himself to have somemon ground, right?

    Mr. Yan nced at him and said, "Are you pretending to be silly? Don��t you know my thoughts about you? You��re not young anymore. Do you really want to stay single for life?"

    "No," Yan Kai smiled, "I��ll talk about it after I finish this task. Work is urgent right now. I need topete well with Gu Junming."

    "Hmm,st time in Xiong��er Ridge affairs, you had the upper hand over Gu Junming, but it wasn��t because he was poor; it was because Gu Junming repaid your kindness. Never think if he takes action, he��ll do worse than you."

    Yan Kai nodded, "Yes. I know, I admire Gu Junming for this."

    "Alright, you go out. I get irritated seeing you always return alone."

    Yan Kai smiled, got up, and walked out. His father was of that personality, talking about caring matters but in a cold tone. Yan Kai was aware of the rtionship issue, he wouldn��t be unable to find, just aiming to find someone he truly likes.

    Yan Kai came out of the room and instructed the maid to make some noodles for his father. Yan Kai was from the north and loved handmade noodles. The maid agreed and quickly went to the kitchen. Just as she was going to her room for rest, someone walked in.

    Seeing the persone in, Yan Kai immediately smiled and walked over��it was Yang Hongying.

    Seeing Yan Kai, Yang Hongying shivered, almost dropping the things in her hands, "Co... cousin, why are you at home?"

    "Are you afraid of me?" Yan Kaiughed uncontrobly, "Am I that scary?"

    "I��m here to see the old man, not afraid of you, just didn��t expect you to be home." Yang Hongying was very embarrassed.

    She was afraid of this cousin since she was little, his words and actions were always serious, no one dared to be carefree in front of him. Additionally, Yang Hongying had a marriage before, which Yan Kai strongly opposed, but she insisted, only for her husband to die soon after their marriage. Remembering Yan Kai��s concern words, she felt regretful and sad. At that time, her parents insisted on the marriage, saying the other party had prospects, who knew it ended up such?

    Yan Kai was nice to her, although they were distant rtives, he was still very concerned. He helped her sit down, "Don��t worry, it��s all in the past. You��re still young, good days are yet toe."

    "I know, cousin." She was twirling her fingers.

    Yan Kai sighed too, his good cousin��s marriage was so short before her husband��s passing, leaving her with a husband-killer reputation.

    Her husband had an ident while transporting supplies during duty. It was supposed to bring a good reputation, yet he had drunk too much himself leading to the ident, causing two other soldiers�� deaths too. Hence, her husband��s name wasn��t good, Yang Hongying lived even harder, soon to retire and unsure of her future.

    Yan Kai thought maybe he could help find her a better job, but she joined the army straight after middle school; her education wasn��t high, hard to find.

    Noticing Yan Kai was distracted, Yang Hongying bit her lip and said, "Actually, I came because there��s something I need to say. I wanted to ask the old man��s help, but now only you can help."

    "Go ahead, say anything you want. I��ll try to help." Yan Kai pulled a chair to sit opposite her.

    Yang Hongying��s eyes turned red, "I have someone, and I need to meet his family."

    Yan Kai stared surprised, that fast?

    Yang Hongying made up her mind and told all at once, choosing to face it head on,e what may!

    Yan Kai listened with his brows furrowed tightly as the situation unfolded��it was Gu Junming��s brother!

    After Yan Hongying finished, she quietly looked at her cousin with deep anxiety��what if he refused to help?

    "Do you know what kind of person his stepmother is?" he frowned. Wang Guihua was a very snobby woman, her family background was good a few years ago, but after her parents died, it became obviously bad. Now, her focus was finding a good match for her son. Yan Kai knew this well. Now, his cousin wanted to marry her son��crazy?

    Yang Hongying lowered her head, nervously ying with her fingers, "But Gu Juntao promised he would help me, and he wants to walk this road together with me. I feel we can make it if we try hard and��..."

    "Don��t be silly!" Yan Kai waved his hand, "He��s three years younger than you; he��s still a kid. How could he have such ability? Stop dreaming. I��ll speak with the old man and find you a good match."

    "But I..."

    "You and Gu Juntao won��t work, better break up soon."

    Yang Hongying��s eyes were full of tears, aggrieved and sad, "Cousin, I really like him. Can you help me? Just let me try once, just thisst time. I��ll go to the Gu Family over the weekend to hear their decision. If they really don��t ept me, I��ll be willing to ept it."

    Yan Kai looked at his cousin who had already lost her parents, and a husband, and remembered her haggard face at that time; how could he hurt her heart now? Never mind, might as well let her try.

    Thinking this, Yan Kai said, "Alright, I��ll help you look into it, say what needs to be said for you, but we both know what the oue might be; to be honest, I��m not optimistic."

    Yang Hongying wiped her tears, "I understand, if it doesn��t work out, so be it. At least I tried."

    Yan Kai worried she might get humiliated, but since she was willing, what else could he do?

    That night, Yang Hongying stayed at Yan Kai��s home and joined for noodles.

    Yang Hongying was very reserved when seeing Mr. Yan; she was timid since childhood and could not be ingratiating. The Yan Family wasn��t close, but Mr. Yan always cared for her without ming her reticence.

    "Doesn��t Hong Ying seem to have something on her mind? Doesn��t look well?" Mr. Yan asked.

    Yang Hongying panicked as she nced towards Yan Kai.

 Chapter 109 Wang Dabao Visits

    <h4>Chapter 109: Chapter 109 Wang Dabao Visits</h4><h4></h4>

    Yan Kai thought for a moment, deciding to keep this matter from his father. Anyway, the n was unlikely to seed, making her understand this thoroughly could also be a relief, and she could find an average family to marry into.

    Sun Chan sold fruit for two more days. Business was average; the persimmons sold out, but the apples looked a bit wilted. Fortunately, they were just leftovers and were sold off cheaply at five yuan for three jin overnight. Finally, everything was sold.

    She pushed her cart home. It was already the end of the year, nights came early, and it started to snow lightly. The road wasn��t easy to walk on, and the alley where Sun Chan lived was somewhat secluded, so she walked quickly. Somehow, she felt someone was following her, which made her nervous, worrying someone might be trailing her.

    She dared not ride her bike, just pushing it quickly, and the person behind her was speeding up to keep pace. Sun Chan even considered abandoning the bike and running, but realizing she might not be able to outrun him, she was relieved to see the lights at home. She shouted loudly: "Sister Guihua! Open the door quickly..."

    Before she finished, the person behind her put an arm around her neck, restraining her.

    If it were an ordinary girl facing this situation for the first time, she would probably have already been frightened out of her mind. However, having already encountered such incidents before, she was very calm. She had already drawn a bamboo stick from the fruit basket and held it in her hand, and as soon as the person grabbed her, Sun Chan��s bamboo stick pierced into the back of his hand with all her might.

    The person cried out in pain: "You damn woman, are you looking to die?"

    Upon hearing the voice, Sun Chan instantly knew who it was��Wang Dabao!

    She began to struggle. Wang Dabao, who had gradually fallen from grace, was initially grateful to her. But after his wife divorced him, he started targeting Sun Chan, who was far more beautiful than his ex-wife or his mistress. Marrying her would also be a good way to provoke Guihua!

    So he had been keeping tabs on them all along. It was pure chance that while aimlessly wandering the streets today, he saw Sun Chan pushing the cart selling fruit. He decided to follow her, never expecting this girl to retaliate.

    Wang Dabao��s hand was covered in blood, and his anger surged as he pinned her: "I might as well kill you today!"

    Sun Chan couldn��t overpower him. She struggled twice and fell to the ground with Wang Dabao, the bicycle toppling over beside them. Wang Dabao grabbed Sun Chan, trying to drag her to the roadside where his car was parked, nning to take her away. Once in the shadows, he intended to handle the matter, making sure any cries would be in vain.

    "Come over here!" He dragged Sun Chan along the ground.

    Sun Chan struggled and shouted, "You weren��t like this before��how did you be so shameless!"

    "Haha, you encouraged my wife to divorce me and took all the family property. Shouldn��t I teach you a lesson?"

    "I only met your wife three times. By the time I got involved, you were already divorced. How is it my fault?"

    "Doesn��t matter. I decide. I just don��t like you people!"

    Wang Dabao continued dragging Sun Chan towards the car. Sun Chan was furious; this person was aplete scoundrel! They scuffled, and both were soon breathless from exhaustion.

    Guihua was getting anxious too��why hadn��t shee back thiste? She grabbed a shlight to go out and meet Sun Chan.

    As soon as she opened the door, she saw two people rolling on the ground, the man d in a big cotton coat, obscuring his features. But the woman was unmistakably Sun Chan!

    "What��s going on here?" she eximed and quickly ran over.

    "Wang Dabao is trying to bully someone!" Sun Chan shouted.

    Guihua shouted in anger, "You damned rascal, what do you think you��re doing?"

    She went over to help, and with both women being strong, it was more than enough to tackle Wang Dabao. Plus, Sun Chan had a bamboo stick in her hand, and soon Wang Dabao was beaten into a swollen mess, constantly crying out in pain. He was very regretful; he never expected such a petite girl to have so much strength. He couldn��t manage to take her away, and now Guihua caught him!

    "Let go of me, you vicious woman!" he cried, blood spurting from his nose.

    "You��re the shameless one! Sun Chan, take him to the police station!" Guihua clenched her teeth in anger: "He should be locked up for a few years to teach him a lesson."

    Frightened by the thought of jail, Wang Dabao immediately knelt on the ground, pleading: "No, honey! One night as a couple, a hundred days of grace. It wasn��t intentional��I was just drunk. Give me another chance! I don��t want to go to prison!"

    Guihua angrily kicked Wang Dabao in the groin: "I must have been blind to have married a beast like you! Where was your courage when you were bullying someone just now?"

    Wang Dabao fell sideways, unable to get up from the pain.

    His cotton coat waspletely torn, cotton stuffing flying out; his hair had been pulled out in clumps, leaving him utterly disheveled.

    Guihua looked back at Sun Chan standing there, showing no intention to call the police, and shouted: "I told you to call the police! Can��t you hear me? Why aren��t you listening?"

    Sun Chan looked at Guihua, torn: "Sister, if he goes to jail, what about your baby?"

    Guihua was stunned. Yes, if the child had such a father, it would cause gossip in the future. Divorce had already drawn unwanted attention, not to mention if the child��s father became a convict...

    Wang Dabao, hearing Sun Chan��s words, reacted quickly. He hurriedly crawled over and said: "Yes, dear. If I go to jail, it won��t be good for our child. Please, for the baby��s sake, forgive me. I��m really sorry; I got carried away and was misled. It was all Zhao Hong��s doing, saying you urged us to divorce. That��s why I did it. It was my poor judgment..." He burst into loud sobs.

    Sun Chan looked at Wang Dabao with disdain. What a low-life.

    Clearly, he was the one at fault, preying on someone walking alone at night with ill intentions, now shifting the me onto a woman!

    After thinking, Guihua reluctantly decided not to let her son be embarrassed, plus Sun Chan wasn��t seriously harmed. With a sneer, she kicked Wang Dabao to the ground, then grabbed the board from Sun Chan��s hand and began to hit him indiscriminately. Wang Dabao clutched his head rolling around on the ground.

    He actually wasn��t weak, and if he fought Guihua desperately, he might not lose. However, he had been suppressed by Guihua for so long, he forgot he could resist, so he just took the beating.

 Chapter 110: Scheming

    <h4>Chapter 110: Chapter 110: Scheming</h4><h4></h4>

    Sun Chan saw that if the fight continued, something would surely go wrong, so she stopped her: "Forget it, let him go on the street!"

    Guihua said, "Today I��ll let you off, but if you dare to mess with us again, I��ll kill you. Even if I have to risk my life, I won��t let you, you beast, bully my sister!"

    "Yes, yes, I won��t dare again."

    "Get lost! If I see you again, I��ll cripple you!" Guihua kicked him once more.

    Wang Dabao limped to his car and drove away quickly.

    Guihua grabbed Sun Chan and looked her over: "Are you okay?"

    Sun Chan shook her head: "Don��t worry, I��m fine, but Wang Dabao knows where we live now..."

    "Rx, I know that bastard, he won��t daree back. Plus, I practically kicked his family jewels. What do you think he can do?" Guihua said boldly.

    Sun Chan��s face turned red when she heard this. Can you say things like that to a young girl? Even if she was reborn, it��s still embarrassing.

    Guihua helped to straighten the car: "From now on, don��te home sote. What if something happens?"

    "I know, from now on I��ll be back by four." Sun Chan was still shaken, focusing only on shopping, what if something happened?

    The two went home, ate dinner, washed up, and the earlier events left no impression on their minds.

    Meanwhile, Wang Dabao went home and copsed on the bed, groaning. The house that was previously transferred to Zhao Hong has now been sold due to business turnover, and the two are currently renting a bungalow.

    Zhao Hong was busy cleaning the furnace ash at home. She wasn��t used to such rough work and was a bit dusty.

    Looking up to see him in this state scared her, she grabbed him: "Darling, what��s wrong with you? Were you robbed?"

    "Hmph! It was my ex-wife who beat me up!"

    "That bitch, how could she do this, hasn��t she screwed you over enough? Took all the money and now bullies you?" Zhao Hong hurriedly reached to touch his wound.

    "I think the one screwing me over the most is you!" Wang Dabao went into the tiny room and copsed on the bed, grabbed a pillow and covered his head: "Get out! I don��t want to see you!" Ever since Guihua found out about her, Zhao Hong, things haven��t been good! Now I��m left with nothing, business is worsening by the day, and how did I ever fancy a woman like this? She��s not even that good-looking!

    Zhao Hong gritted her teeth and walked out, feeling aggrieved. She originally thought she would live a life of luxury with Wang Dabao, but who knew she��d suffer with him! And he doesn��t appreciate it, her mood has been getting worse.

    Although she had no skills, she had a few rtives with backgrounds. Why endure such hardship!

    Wang Dabaoy there for a while and suddenly remembered something. He came out and asked, "Didn��t you say before that you have a grand-uncle who��s a leader? Amander in the army?"

    Zhao Hong replied listlessly, "So what if I did? Our family��s not well-off, he doesn��t want to bother with us."

    "What��s his name again?"

    "Gu Dongfang." Zhao Hong said, "What do you want to do? We��re not soldiers, can��t use that connection."

    "You are so dumb and inflexible! So many veterans have joined public security andw enforcement! If he just speaks up, is there any problem that can��t be resolved? Usually, you couldwork instead of shopping! Do you expect him toe see you? This weekend, bring gifts, and we��ll visit grand-uncle!"

    Zhao Hong said nothing, thinking her grand-uncle was okay, but his daughter-inw was hard to deal with, likely won��t work out.

    Wang Dabao said, "We can��t keep living like this. We need to find a way to make some business. Your grand-uncle��s involved with the army, let their canteen buy some of my mountain goods or something, isn��t that great?"

    "Why? We never visit them... would they agree? I think we should drop it."

    "Just go as told!"

    "But I..."

    Zhao Hong didn��t finish her sentence before seeing Wang Dabao��s bloodshot eyes, gritting teeth, his face still swollen, looking scarier like he might eat her any second, frightened her into silence.

    Wang Dabao said, "My wife can��t just freeload. Back then, Guihua helped me make so many business connections, her family gave lots of benefits, you got so much from me, and now a simple favor is too much?"

    Zhao Hong gritted her teeth, thinking he was so heartless.

    But Wang Dabao��s next words made her happy: "If this business works out, I��ll marry you, and we can have a good life together."

    Zhao Hong certainly wanted to be official. She had been with Wang Dabao for quite a while, even had an abortion, and if she didn��t marry him soon, she might not find another suitable one. Besides, a skinny camel is bigger than a horse, even though Wang Dabao had business issues, he��s still better off than an average worker.

    Reminded of how her grand-uncle treated her well long ago, she gritted her teeth and nodded: "Fine, we��ll visit this weekend. I��ll make the request, maybe it��ll work. Just a chance to get back at that Guihua! She took your money, can we just let it go?"

    Wang Dabao pped his thigh, "I almost forgot! Better make that bitch cough up what��s mine. Ouch!" The excitement made him forget his wounds, grimacing in pain.

    "Alright. It��s settled. Honey!" She snuggled against him coquettishly, "I��ll listen to you, am I good to you?"

    Wang Dabao felt a stir in his heart, but immediately the pain in his groin made him scream, pushing Zhao Hong away: "Stay away from me, don��te near me these days! That vile woman��s strikes are really vicious!"

    Zhao Hong inwardly sneered, you fool, oppressed by your wife for so many years, and you haven��t improved at all! Can��t even beat a woman. Watch how I make Guihua hand over the money. This time, I should handle the finances.

    This couple schemed about asking the Gu family for help to get some ideas and retrieve some of Guihua��s money.

    Gu Junming and Gu Juntao both nned to bring their partners to the Gu Family, feeling a bit uneasy, as neither of their partners were the kind their parents would like.

    Wang Hu and Bai Fann also prepared to visit, but for different reasons. Yan Kai was to settle his cousin��s marriage. And probe Gu Junming��s intentions.

    It��s likely Gu Zishan didn��t know their home would be so lively that weekend.

    Early that day, Wang Guihua got up, busy in the kitchen, though she did nothing much herself, just kept the helpers on the run. She wasn��t concerned about Gu Junming��s affairs, just happy her youngest son was finally finding a girlfriend. Soon, they would have a family, and he��d be grown up!

 Chapter 111 Establishing Connections

    <h4>Chapter 111: Chapter 111 Establishing Connections</h4><h4></h4>

    "There��s way too much of this fish, and the old man doesn��t like it. Who bought it? And what are those things? The leaves on these vegetables are all rotten, what��s going on? And are these tomatoes even correct? Didn��t I say I needed the ones with pointed bottoms?" Wang Guihua kept criticizing with a frown.

    The maid said nothing; weren��t these bought by you anyway? It��s not the first time she��s pretending to be knowledgeable. She just kept cooking, ignoring Wang Guihua.

    Gu Dongfang was in a good mood today; both of his grandsons brought their partners over. It seems he��ll soon have descendants and hold a grandchild, extremely joyous. He changed his clothes early and went down to the first floor.

    Gu Zishan happily poured his father a cup of tea and handed over a newspaper: "Don��t worry about Jun Tao, Guihua will keep an eye on him. I worry about Gu Junming, Dad, you know he��s not very obedient. Who knows if he��ll bring back an unsuitable wife. Guihua has mentioned several times that if it doesn��t work out, she��ll find a good girl."

    Gu Dongfang sighed: "Back then, I was still in the Northwest and didn��te back. The caring you have towards them has beencking. Jun Tao has always been cared for by you two, but Junming has never been close to family members. When he marries, it must be done well. You hardly managed him when he was young, and now you��re interfering in his life; your rtionship will never improve this way."

    "Yes, Dad, those years were my fault." Gu Zishan felt very ashamed by his father��s words.

    Whenever he thought of Gu Junming, his emotions becameplicated, knowing he wronged his eldest son. Yet despite his effortster, his son never gave him the chance. Just like Wang Guihua said, now that he��s getting married, he merely notified them without intending to seek their opinions.

    Gu Dongfang nced at his son and said nothing more, though his heart bore resentment towards him. From a military family, yetcking backbone! But his only son endured hardships and is now quite old, what can be done?

    Gu Juntao came down the stairs at this time: "Grandpa, Dad, you don��t have to be so nervous. Juste out when the guests arrive; it��ll be timely enough." He appeared calm but somewhat tense.

    Originally, he nned to bring Yang Hongying along, but who knew Yan Kai would say he��s bringing her in person, leaving him to wait at home.

    Gu Zishan nced at his second son: "Still not saying who it is? ying mystery, is it fun?"

    "You��ll know when the timees, I guarantee you��ll be satisfied. It��s a pretty girl, also military." Gu Juntao chuckled.

    Gu Zishan nodded approvingly, considering a military family surely promising.

    Wang Guihua saw her soning down and hurriedly walked over, patting his clothes: "Change into something more spirited?"

    Gu Juntaoughed and waved his hand: "Wearing my uniform, I think it��s quite good."

    "Right! Since it��s a military family, wearing a uniform is appropriate." Gu Dongfangughed. Although this grandson hasn��t got the ideal physique, he still looks quite spirited.

    Soon, guests arrived, brought in by a little soldier. It was Zhao Hong and Wang Dabao, the soldier saluted: "Sir, these two im to be your rtives."

    Zhao Hong immediately smiled at Gu Dongfang: "Granduncle, I came to see you!"

    After pondering for a while, Gu Dongfang smiled: "It��s you, Honghong. Guihua, let them in."

    The little soldier saluted and left directly.

    When Wang Guihua weed them, she felt a bit displeased. She��s always looked down on such small-time households, not to mention they seemed toe to take advantage. Yet considering the old man��s face, she greeted with a smile.

    Wang Dabao had been beatenst night, still had some swelling on his face, but smiled as he approached.

    "Granduncle, I��m Zhao Hong��s partner. It��s the weekend, and I specially came to see you." He said, handing over his gift.

    It was some top-quality bird��s nest, and though Wang Guihua held no good impression of these two, she was satisfied to see this. It��s a great gift to give her son for nourishment. She thus prepared to receive it with a smiling face.

    Upon raising her head and seeing her husband��s re, she hurriedly said: "We can��t ept this; we mustn��t take things recklessly."

    "We juniors are merely visiting our elders, absolutely no other intentions." Zhao Hong quickly said: "Please ept it. Otherwise, I genuinely wouldn��t know if I shoulde next time."

    Seeing Gu Dongfang say nothing more, Wang Guihua quickly epted the gift: "Sit, please sit, have some tea."

    Ignoring Gu Zishan��s gaze, she put the gifts aside.

    Zhao Hong chatted with Gu Dongfang a few words, and he was quite happy, having a girl to tell him jokes amidst a family full of men was rare. But Wang Dabao felt anxious; being a clever fellow, he understood there must be esteemed guests arriving soon based on the kitchen��s hustle, feeling a bit uneasy about how to speak up.

    The old man inquired about Wang Dabao��s profession, Zhao Hong quicklyughed: "He��s in business."

    Looking at Wang Dabao, Gu Dongfang nodded with a smile: "You��re sensible, aren��t you? Since you have a boyfriend, get married soon. You��ll also reassure your family early on."

    "Yes, we��re discussing it now." Zhao Hong nced at Wang Dabao.

    Wang Dabao barely managed a smile; he felt nothing for Zhao Hong now, unable to break up so casually dragged things along.

    Seeing his expression, Gu Dongfang felt displeased but knowing this wasn��t his ce, he refrained frommenting. Though observing this man wasn��t impressive, he disregarded his swollen face, indifferent to its cause.

    Everyone in the Gu Family knew Zhao Hong was here for a specific reason today, but since they weren��t stating it, they naturally didn��t inquire, just exchanged small talk.

    Wang Dabao realized the main topic hadn��t been addressed, pushed Zhao Hong strongly.

    Though unwilling, Zhao Hong reluctantly started: "Granduncle, actually, we came today with a little request..."

    "What is it?"

    "It��s about your military mess hall..."

    Before she could finish, others arrived outside, Bai Fann and Wang Hu came together.

    Bai Fann smiled: "Old man, we came to see you."

    These two surely were notable figures, not just considering Bai Fann but for Wang Hu as well, requiring proper hospitality. Both Gu Zishan and Wang Guihua approached them warmly.

    Wang Guihua smiled at Bai Fann: "Haven��t seen you in a while, Fann. You��ve gotten prettier!"

 Chapter 112 Everyone is Here

    <h4>Chapter 112: Chapter 112 Everyone is Here</h4><h4></h4>

    "Where? I��ve gained weight recently." Bai Fann said, then shyly nced at Wang Hu beside her. When someonepliments your partner, do you really not feel anything?

    Who would have guessed Wang Hu didn��t notice her look and was just engrossed in shaking hands and talking with Gu Zishan? Bai Fann felt slightly suffocated as she wondered if it wasck of sentiment or simply disinterest in her!

    But after all this time, she was used to it, and it��d be hard to say anything in front of others, so she just smiled and greeted Wang Guihua.

    Wang Guihua was so astute, there was no way she��d miss it, but she just pretended not to know and let the two sit down, "Wang Hu hasn��te over in a while, has he? Today we should make sure to have a good meal together."

    Wang Huughed, "I��ll be leaving soon, just wanted to chat a bit with Gu Junming."

    "He��ll be here shortly. I heard he��s bringing someone special," Wang Guihua chuckled.

    Zhao Hong and Wang Dabao suddenly felt awkward. There��s clearly something big going on today, and it seems they didn��t n on having them stay for dinner?

    Wang Dabao red at Zhao Hong, thinking, Look at the mess you got us into! How are things now?

    Zhao Hong was helpless: How was I supposed to know today would turn out this way?

    Just as they were pondering, someone else came in from outside, it was Yan Kai with Yang Hongying.

    Gu Dongfang stood up, "Wow, what a coincidence, how did you get here?" He��s been friends with Mr. Yan for many years, so he was quite excited to see his friend��s child.

    "Your reaction is making me feel unwee," Yan Kai teased.

    "No way! You��re giving me... quite a surprise!" Gu Dongfang went over and patted him on the shoulder.

    Wang Hu greeted Yan Kai and shook hands, the two were rivals now, knowing each other��s intentions but notying them bare. Gu Juntao went to chat with Yang Hongying.

    He whispered, "Calling reinforcements?"

    Yang Hongying blushed slightly, "I was afraid it would get ugly."

    "I��ve got you." Gu Juntao firmly held her hand, "We��ll definitely make it work."

    But Yang Hongying jerked back as if shocked, taking several steps back.

    This is the Gu Family home! What if others see?

    Gu Juntao naturally understood her concerns and wasn��t angry, he just released her with a smile.

    Though Yang Guihua didn��t notice, Wang Hu saw immediately and furrowed his brow slightly, thinking, This isn��t good.

    Yang Hongying is a widow, there must be some issue between her and Gu Juntao.

    He usually doesn��t meddle in such affairs, nning to leave early.

    Bai Fann saw Yan Kai over there and was surprised, her grandpa had always wanted to draw the Yan Family closer, but they were impossible to invite! She turned to Gu Zishan andughed, "Was this prominent guest invited by Uncle Gu?"

    Yan Kai said nothing; he, like his father, despised the Bai Family��s way.

    Gu Zishan smiled, "No, I really didn��t expect it! But since he��s here, he��s a guest. Please, sit."

    Wang Dabao was in a gloomy mood, this was a disaster, the things he wanted to say wouldn��t be said, pulling Zhao Hong, "Let��s go. Let��s head back first, with so many guests here today, they probably won��t have time for us."

    Zhao Hong didn��t respond, and Wang Dabao, very annoyed, turned to see Zhao Hong intently staring at Yan Kai, as if dreaming of finding such a handsome man in the world.

    Dressed in a military uniform with perfect stature and features, she had thought such handsomeness could only be seen on TV!

    Wang Dabao was furious, stomping hard on her foot. This wretch! How could I divorce Guihua for her, and yet she��s openly ogling another man!

    Yan Kai naturally wasn��t aware and did not look their way.

    Zhao Hong, finallying to her senses after being stomped, whispered, "Let��s go, let��s head back."

    Anyway, they familiarized themselves with the ce today, so next time they��ll juste straight here. They were about to say goodbye, but Wang Guihua and her husband were chatting with Yan Kai, Wang Hu and Gu Dongfang were engrossed in conversation, and Yang Hongying sat cautiously on the side, troubled, not really in the mood to look at the Gu Family��s guests.

    Wang Dabao, although a lecher, was irritated enough at the moment to not notice the beautiful woman.

    Gu Juntao brought a cup of hot water for Yang Hongying and ced it beside her. Yang Hongying bit her lip and stayed silent, not looking at him.

    Zhao Hong braced herself to speak, but before she could, the final pair of guests came in �� it was Gu Junming apanied by Sun Chan.

    The moment he entered, the room��s atmosphere shifted.

    Though Yan Kai and Wang Hu would be reluctant to admit it, Gu Junming exuded an undeniable dominance. Neither of them could achieve this aura.

    Sun Chan nervously bit her lip, but Gu Junming gripped her hand tightly, refusing to let go.

    Gu Juntao saw the two of them and moved behind Yang Hongying, who shook her head, pointed at Wang Guihua, and went over to Yan Kai.

    Gu Juntao didn��t have Gu Junming��s courage, so he had to let it go for now.

    Gu Junming had gone to see Sun Chan early, Sun Chan was really anxious, not sleeping well at night, she got up early, changed into several outfits, and did her hair multiple times.

    Guihua smiled, "Just wear a ponytail, my red coat would look great on you. And I��ve also prepared the leather shoes for you."

    "But isn��t this too expensive? I can just wear my own jacket," Sun Chan said, feeling a bit embarrassed.

    "What��s the big deal? Whoever I like gets my stuff; what kind of rtionship do we have? You apanied me through my toughest times, so naturally I think of you first when there��s something good. Don��t be so formal with me, just take it! Otherwise I wouldn��t be able to live with you."

    Finally, Sun Chan thanked her and put it on. A red coat with a white sweater underneath, itsrge cor flipped out, ck trousers, and ck leather shoes, looking extremely fresh and beautiful.

    Guihua also handed her a lipstick and face cream, encouraging her to doll up.

    When Gu Junming arrived, seeing Sun Chan cutely standing at the doorway, smiling at him, he was stunned.

    The little girl in front of him had skin as fair as snow, with big, bright eyes, so strikingly beautiful, what virtue or capability did he possess to have such a beautiful girlfriend? He felt incredibly lucky and emotional.

    Sun Chan shyly asked, "Does it look bad?"

    "No, it looks lovely." Gu Junming turned and said, "Let��s go, I drove here, we��ll eat on the way."

    Sun Chan didn��t think much about it, she followed Gu Junming out. She felt something strange, why was Gu Junming saying so little today?

 Chapter 113 Stirring Up Trouble

    <h4>Chapter 113: Chapter 113 Stirring Up Trouble</h4><h4></h4>

    The two of them arrived at the entrance of the Gu Family, Gu Junming was holding some gifts in one hand and holding her hand in the other: "Remember, I��m here for everything, you don��t need to say much, I want to confirm the rtionship with you."

    Sun Chan nodded, she was about to turn eighteen, an adult, and in two years she could marry Gu Junming. She hoped to grasp her own happiness in this lifetime.

    When Sun Chan and Gu Junming entered the Gu Family, everyone inside was stunned, their expressions especially strange.

    Wang Guihua and Gu Zishan were surprised by the little girl��s beauty, she looked like she stepped out of a painting!

    Among the people here, Wang Hu, Bai Fann, and Yan Kai had all seen Sun Chan, but not this beautiful. Bai Fann was especially jealous to the point her eyes turned red. This bitch! How many days has it been since she established her rtionship with Gu Junming? And she had Gu Junming buy clothes and dress her up, right? This outfit must cost over two hundred yuan, right? He actually splurged on her!

    Wang Dabao and Zhao Hong looked as if they had seen a ghost upon seeing Sun Chan. Why was she here!

    Wang Dabao was even more terrified, his legs went weak, his mouth gaped wide open, almost about to faint.

    Sun Chan nced lightly at Wang Dabao. She didn��t want to ask why he was here, but his presence was indeed unpleasant.

    Wang Dabao immediately excused himself, pulling Zhao Hong away without turning back. He initially wanted to report her misdeeds and have the old man discipline Sun Chan and Guihua, who would��ve thought she was actually the girlfriend of the Gu Family��s eldest son! If she told Gu Junming aboutst night��s events, wouldn��t I be doomed!

    The Gu Family naturally did not keep them.

    As soon as they were outside, Zhao Hong grabbed him anxiously and asked, "What��s going on? You left so quickly, people might think you��re a thief!"

    "Nothing, let��s go," he walked towards his car.

    "No way, did something happen between you and Sun Chan? Did she cause the injuries on your body? Exin clearly!" Zhao Hong wasn��t stupid, who is Wang Dabao? He can��t move when he sees a pretty girl!

    Wang Dabao shook off her hand, angrily said, "What nonsense are you talking about? Let��s get going! If you don��t go, I��ll leave by myself, look at what you��re saying, I knew you were useless, can��t get anything done!" He said as he strode out of the courtyard.

    Zhao Hong was so furious, she red at him fiercely as she got into the car.

    Everything gets med on me! If you��re so capable, go ask someone yourself! But now things havee this far, what can be done? Who else can I marry but him?

    Suddenly, an image of Yan Kai��s handsome face shed through Zhao Hong��s mind, stirring her heart. If only she hadn��t been with this beast and aborted the child. Maybe if her granduncle had matched them, she could have married him. Both were full of angst and didn��t speak a word on the way.

    Meanwhile, there was also a very peculiar atmosphere in the Gu Family.

    Wang Guihua, being thedy of the house, hurriedly approached: "Junming��s back, this must be..."

    "This is my girlfriend, Sun Chan," Gu Junming said tly.

    Bai Fann came over at this moment andughed, "Gu Junming, congrattions, Auntie, I know this girl, she��s from the vige, used to be a caregiver, andter because her fianc�� wanted to drag her back to the vige to get married, she caused a scene and went to the sanatorium,ter seemed to have a fight with her sister and adoptive mother, and quit, right?" She didn��t heed Wang Hu��s several warning nces and just embellished all the stories about Sun Chan and Gu Junming.

    It was clear from her words how much she despised the poor and loved the rich, always looking for new opportunities.

    Bai Fann just wanted to see her being kicked out, today I��m going to let her be thoroughly humiliated!

    Gu Junming didn��t speak, his eyes shot out two cold beams, Bai Fann, her heart is despicable! She��s here to wreck the situation today.

    Bai Fann didn��t look at Gu Junming, if I can��t have him, I��ll surely destroy him!

    As for Wang Hu, at that time, I��ll just apologize, anyway, Sun Chan��s identity will be revealed sooner orter.

    Sure enough, upon hearing these words, Wang Guihua felt aplex mix of emotions in her heart, a bit angry, somewhat pleased, and even more schadenfreude. Well, didn��t you always say the Gu Family��s eldest son is a well-rounded talent, now he��s found a girlfriend like this, what will you do?

    Gu Zishan��s face was very unpleasant: "What��s going on? Gu Junming? You��re dating a girl like this?"

    He was clearly very disappointed, no family background, no future, not even parents!

    "What do you mean by a girl like this?" Gu Junming said tly: "Is it illegal toe from the vige?"

    Gu Zishan said coldly: "Whether she��s from a vige or a city is not the point, she has a fianc�� and still despises the poor and loves the rich, that��s not eptable!" He was truly disappointed, how could his son find such a person? No family background, and an orphan too! How can she assist his son!

    Bai Fann said: "Sun Chan��s rtionship with her adoptive mother isn��t that good, it��s also because of that fianc�� causing trouble."

    Before Gu Junming could speak, Yan Kai said, "Comrade Bai Fann, you need to speak with evidence! I can��t speak for other matters, but Sun Chan does not have the rtionship of being a fianc�� with that person, and her adoptive mother and sister nearly sold her to Xiong��er Ridge. I haven��t known Sun Chan for long, but she is definitely not the kind of girl who��s vain!"

    Wang Hu also said on the side, "Bai Fann, you��re a soldier, is it right to humiliate a girl like this? Your family is from the city, and this girl is from the vige, are you looking down on her like this?"

    Bai Fann was rebuked by her own partner, her face exceptionally unsightly. Her eyes welled up red, looking towards Wang Guihua.

    "Auntie..."

    Gu Zishan frowned silently, Wang Guihua said, "Is there a misunderstanding about this? Fann has never been like this person..."

    Sun Chan didn��t speak, meaning to say, I am such a person?

    Gu Junming said faintly, "No, Bai Fann has always been like this. This time Sun Chan almost got sold, and it was she who sent the message to Sun Chan��s adoptive mother. I��ve already forgotten what I don��t want to remember with Bai Fann, to sum up, Bai Fann, whether Sun Chan used to work as a caregiver or she had no job and farmed, what��s it got to do with you, did you spend a dime to support her? What are you jumping around here for? Are you into me, afraid that I��ll marry someone else? Let me tell you, I won��t marry in my life, and I won��t marry a woman with a vicious mind like you, understand?"

    Everyone was shocked looking at Gu Junming, Bai Fann��s body shook a bit, she never in her dreams imagined Gu Junming would give her no face at all, humiliating her in front of so many people!

 Chapter 114: Too Wronged

    <h4>Chapter 114: Chapter 114: Too Wronged</h4><h4></h4>

    She covered her mouth and started to cry: "I didn��t, I didn��t leak information, I��m not that kind of person, I just said what I knew..."

    "What the hell is it to you!" Gu Junming said, "You have someone, and I��m puzzled why you keep meddling in my business! If you��ve got nothing to do, then go prepare your dowry. If you keep bothering me, I won��t let it go!"

    Wang Hu stood over there, a smile suddenly appearing on his lips. At this point, if he didn��t understand, he��d be a fool. It turns out his fianc��e has always had feelings for Gu Junming. He wasn��t exactly angry or disappointed, just a bit annoyed.

    Gu Junming wanted to say more, but Sun Chan pulled him back: "Let it go, don��t say anymore."

    She also felt that Gu Junming��s words were indeed a bit too much, but how many times had they tried to save Bai Fann some face? And how does she act? Each time more outrageous than thest. This time she knew clearly Gu Junming was here with someone, yet she had to stir things up!

    Her obvious objective is to make Sun Chan lose face and disrupt this marriage; it��s utterly shameless.

    Bai Fann couldn��t possibly admit defeat at this stage, biting her lip she said, "I don��t mean that to you! I just wanted to give you a little wake-up call out of our many years of friendship!"

    "I only ask you to stay away from me, you don��t need to associate with me anymore." Gu Junming said calmly.

    Bai Fann��s face burned, feeling ashamed as if stripped naked in front of everyone. Gu Zishan and his wife, Yan Kai, must all know now how much she likes him, yet he just coldly breaks up with her because of that vige girl! She shot a venomous re at Sun Chan, wishing she could tear that pretty face apart.

    Sun Chan looked at Bai Fann calmly; she could see that Bai Fann must like Gu Junming a lot, otherwise she wouldn��t act like this, making it awkward for the Gu Family whenever they see her.

    Gu Zishan listened to Gu Junming��s words and immediately shouted, "What the heck are you saying! Apologize to Bai Fann at once! And to Wang Hu! She��s got a boyfriend, what are you saying!"

    The families are close friends, besides the rtionship between himself and Bai Chuan, how can things get so bad? Not to mention Bai Fann has brought her fianc��, isn��t this making trouble! And now she��s offended both the Bai Family and Wang Hu families, what to do in the future?

    Gu Zishan was incredibly worried, inside already resenting his son to the core!

    Gu Junming said, "I won��t apologize! Sun Chan indeed has no parents,es from the countryside, doesn��t have a prominent family background, but she has always been hardworking, capable, and sensible. I love her, I want to marry her. I won��t allow anyone to look down on her!"

    He said it and pulled Sun Chan tightly, crashing her into his embrace.

    Sun Chan, noticeably tense, gently pushed against Gu Junming��s shoulder: "What are you doing?"

    "You are mine!" He held her hand firmly with a strongly determined gaze.

    Gu Zishan was trembling with anger, pointing at Gu Junming, "You rebellious brat! Beast!"

    Gu Junming sneered, "Being with Sun Chan makes me a rebellious son?"

    "How can you face Bai Fann..."

    "Don��t say anymore, I won��t apologize to her; she��s simply overstepping!"

    "I disapprove, you��re too immature, go apologize to the Bai Family immediately! And I absolutely don��t agree with this marriage unless I die!" Gu Zishan was so angry he looked like he was about to have a heart attack, gasping for air, his face reddened with bulging veins.

    Sun Chan silently shed tears, feeling so hurt. Everyone was looking down on her, Zheng Wu, Zhao Xiuxia, Bai Fann, it��s alright, but even Gu Junming��s father looks down on me!

    Gu Junming naturally knew what Sun Chan felt, heart aching for her, he wiped her tears away with his hands: "I��m here for you. No one can hurt you. Be brave, I��m with you!"

    Sun Chan nodded slightly, "I understand. I��m always by your side."

    Bai Fann saw the two gazing at each other and really couldn��t stay any longer; she directly pushed past Wang Guihua, covering her face and ran out crying. Half of it was anger, half was pain and unwillingness, am I really inferior to this little tramp? I will make sure you don��t have it easy!

    Wang Guihua anxiously shouted a few times behind her, but Bai Fann didn��t hear. The door banged loudly.

    "You beast, I��ll beat you to death today!" Gu Zishan suddenly erupted, rushing forward to p his son��s face, stopped by Wang Guihua and Yan Kai.

    "Let go of me! I must beat this wretched thing to death!"

    "Calm down, let��s talk this through," Yan Kai said calmly.

    A few people tried desperately to hold Gu Zishan back, preventing him from going forward.

    The crowd was in chaos while Gu Dongfang watched Sun Chan coldly.

    The young girl timidly pulled Gu Junming, constantly persuading him, Gu Junming, who was almost in a rage and had clenched fists, looked like he was on the verge of a sh with his father.

    But for some unknown words she spoke, he managed to calm down, standing quietly and watching his father lose it, with no intention to avoid it.

    The aunt from the kitchen had already prepared the meal but dared note out; can they still have dinner today?

    Wang Hu also took this moment to leave: "I will find out what��s going on and have Bai Fann apologize." He said and walked away, not even waiting for the Gu Family to acknowledge him.

    She caught up to Bai Fann, who was walking very slowly; she knew Wang Hu would definitelye out.

    Bai Fann never imagined Gu Junming would tear up his rtionship with her sopletely, so her situation now was dire. If she��s not careful, Wang Hu and her marriage will be finished.

    But if she apologizes now, there��s no chance of reconciliation; she��ll have to think of another way.

    Now hearing his footsteps, Bai Fann felt a bit relieved, turned around to look at him, and with a choking voice said: "Since I��m already that kind of person, why do you still follow me?"

    Wang Hu said: "Why did you try to stir up their rtionship?"

    Bai Fann said with a wry smile: "In your eyes, am I that kind of person? I have no animosity with Sun Chan, why should I target her?"

    Wang Wu looked at her tear-stained face, feeling a bit ufortable. After all, she is his fianc��e, being cursed like this, it��s indeed not good.

    Bai Fann saw she received nofort, and felt blocked inside: Look at how Gu Junming treats her, that��s what being in a rtionship looks like, but Wang Hu? Why doesn��t he know how to stand up for me, defend me?

    But she couldn��t express herself, she endured her inner irritation, smiled calmly and said: "I really just thought it was for Gu Junming��s good. If you saw a friend together with a vain girl from the vige, would you ept it? I��ve known him for many years, I never thought he would find such a girlfriend."

 Chapter 115 Instigation

    <h4>Chapter 115: Chapter 115 Instigation</h4><h4></h4>

    Wang Hu frowned and said, "What you said was indeed inappropriate, maybe it was too much. From now on, you shouldn��t..."

    As he spoke, he leaned towards Bai Fann to pat her shoulder.

    Bai Fann forcefully knocked his wrist aside, gritting her teeth, she said, "I see you have no feelings for me at all. If you��re unwilling to be with me, it��s better to call it off!" After saying this, she walked straight ahead.

    Wang Hu strode forward, grabbing her: "Alright, we��re about to get married, what are you making a fuss about? There��s less than a month left, if people find out, what will they think? I didn��t say I don��t want to be with you."

    To be honest, Wang Hu didn��t have much feeling about love between men and women, and he was still quite dissatisfied with Bai Fann��s behavior today, but after all, she was his fianc��e. Besides, he thought Gu Junming being with a vige girl wasn��t very wise, if he had a good rtionship with him, he might have said the same, so he wasn��t too angry.

    "Are you just with me for the sake of face? You don��t trust me! If I really wanted to cause trouble, would I use such a stupid method? I would definitely say it secretly to the Gu Family, right? I said this because my heart is sincere, but no one believes me." Bai Fann burst into tears.

    Wang Hu always perceived Bai Fann as gentle and polite, seeing her cry like this, he didn��t know what to say for a moment, after a while he said, "I believe you, but from now on, don��t interfere with Gu Family matters. Come have dinner with me tonight."

    Bai Fann nodded, finally feeling relieved, if they really broke up, she would be finished.

    She nodded, "I understand. Since Gu Junming doesn��t care about me as a friend, I won��t say much more."

    She knew what kind of person Gu Junming was, once he said something, he would do it, after that, he wouldn��t associate with her. If she couldn��t marry Wang Hu, she wouldn��t be able to fight against Gu Junming, she needed to hold on to Wang Hu, or else she wouldn��t be able to exin to her grandfather.

    Wang Hu nodded, "Alright, other people��s affairs have nothing to do with me, let��s go eat."

    "Okay." Bai Fann wiped away her tears and added, "Because of me, you didn��t get to talk to Gu Junming."

    "There��s no need." Wang Hu said, "Seeing Gu Junming so impulsive today, I know what kind of person he is. Let��s go back."

    He strode away, Bai Fann thought for a moment, ultimately didn��t say anything, and followed Wang Hu.

    Praying in her heart that this position must be obtained by Wang Hu, to thoroughly crush Gu Junming beneath his feet! And that damned Sun Chan, wait and see! She clenched her fists, a fleeting grim expression shed across her face.

    The two walked away, the atmosphere at the Gu Family was extremely oppressive. Gu Zishan leaned angrily against the sofa, his eyes wide open, Gu Dongfang was silent, saying nothing.

    Wang Guihua patted her husband��s shoulder, her face looked terrible, but in her heart, she was apuding.

    Great! Wonderful, let them show off, see how they��ll return to this home in the future, the Gu Family will be my son��s from now on!

    Gu Juntao, Yan Kai, and Yang Hongying werepletely dumbfounded, what was this all about?

    We haven��t even dealt with our own matters yet, and you��re already making a scene here? Can we still talk about our situation?

    Yang Hongying whispered, "Why don��t wee another day..."

    "No way." Gu Juntao held her back, "Since it��s already like this, let��s just say it all at once! Otherwise, there will be no end to it, what choice do we have?"

    "Cousin, what do you think?"

    Yan Kai didn��t speak, he was somewhat distracted looking at Sun Chan, such a lovely and fragile girl, what a miserable fate she had, if she were sold to Xiong��er Ridge, she might not have survived a few months, right? Luckily, she was rescued. Otherwise, her life would have been ruined just like that, which is really frightening to think about.

    At this moment, Gu Dongfang finally spoke up, "Enough, stop causing trouble! Gu Zishan, why are you making a scene in front of so many people? I see this girl is not bad, she looks good. Her character seems fine, so what if her family background is poor? Since childhood, I��ve been orphaned, and my grandparents begged for a living beforeing north, and didn��t we end up living a good life? Come, let me have a look at you."

    Sun Chan was stunned and looked at Gu Junming.

    Gu Junming nodded, "Go ahead."

    Sun Chan walked up to Gu Dongfang, and said softly, "Hello, sir."

    "Hmm, how old are you?"

    "Turning eighteen after the New Year." Sun Chan said, "I want to marry the Deputy Battalion Commander, I hope you can ept me, I will do my best."

    Gu Dongfang looked at her, calmly, "If you��re not epted, can you break up?"

    Sun Chan shook her head, "No. I know I have many shorings, but I will really try to improve myself. Although I can��t change my origins, I will do my best and take good care of Gu Junming."

    "Good! Though young, you already have the awareness needed to be a military wife. You also know that he often won��t be by your side, if you encounter difficulties in life, can you ovee them?"

    Sun Chan hurriedly said, "Yes! I want to help him reduce his burdens, not hold him back."

    Gu Dongfang was satisfied in his heart, smiled, and nodded approvingly. He didn��t have much criticism of the family background of the wife his grandson chose, as long as the person was good. It was much better than bringing home a spoiled heiress who knew nothing.

    Gu Zishan saw his father was actually satisfied, his face turned red with anger: "How old is Gu Junming this year, he��s twenty-six after the New Year! This girl still has two years to go before she can marry! Then he��ll be twenty-eight to get married, isn��t that ridiculous?"

    "I like her, I��m willing to wait." Gu Junming sneered, "During your second marriage, weren��t you the same age? Isn��t Aunt eight years younger than you? You can, why can��t I?"

    Wang Guihua��s face became very unpleasant, Gu Zishan��s face turned livid, is this his son? Clearly, he��s here to collect debts!

    Just as he was about to speak, Gu Dongfang held down his arm with one hand: "Shut up. What do you want to do, trying to hit someone? Is this house run by you or me?"

    "But Dad..." Seeing his father��s icy gaze, Gu Zishan quieted down immediately, no, his father was getting angry.

    Gu Dongfang continued to look at Sun Chan, "I want to ask you, do you have any ns for the next two years?"

    Sun Chan said, "I want to make the most of my age and study hard, my foster mother dropped me out before finishing primary school, I really love learning, I��ll apply for evening sses, or radio and TV university, to umte knowledge."

    Wang Guihuaughed, "A little girl who still loves learning! But in that case, tuition is not a small burden, right? Fortunately, Gu Junming��s sry is not low now, otherwise, in other households, it would be a big burden."

 Chapter 116: Fury

    <h4>Chapter 116: Chapter 116: Fury</h4><h4></h4>

    Wang Guihua is just looking for an opportunity to stir up trouble. This woman is so poor, she will have to rely on Gu Junming for support in the future.

    Yan Kai and Yang Hongying, as outsiders, couldn��t say much. Meanwhile, Gu Juntao was distracted, thinking about how to confess his own matters to his parentster, so no one stopped her.

    Sun Chan wasn��t na?ve; she could see that Wang Guihua didn��t like her. She smiled faintly and said, "Auntie, rest assured, I��m doing some small business now. Previously, I worked as a temp and a caregiver and have saved some money. I don��t expect anyone to pay my tuition. I can support myself."

    Wang Guihua thought she was weak and easy to bully, but unexpectedly, she was met with such a firm attitude in return, and she couldn��t help but look in Gu Zishan��s direction, somewhat surprised.

    Gu Zishan kept a stern face and said nothing. He was extremely dissatisfied with this daughter-inw. However, his family��s manners and his status prevented him from saying anything unpleasant to the girl, so he remained silent.

    Gu Dongfang smiled and said, "You��re a keen learner. So, what are you doing now?"

    "I sell fruit," Sun Chan replied calmly.

    Wang Guihua��s lips curled up, suppressing her inner contempt. But since she had nothing to do with Gu Junming, she decided not to say anything.

    Gu Junming said, "There��s nothing shameful about doing business. Whatever she does, I support her."

    "You��re quite something!" Gu Zishan sneered. "You know the high hopes we hold for you, don��t you? How have you acted? Who have you let down? Do you really have the nerve to say these things?"

    Gu Junming replied calmly, "Do I have to marry the daughter of a high-ranking official to prove myself to the Gu Family? Has it be a tradition for the Gu Family to rely on women? If those officials�� daughters don��t marry into our family, will we starve? You look down on yourself and me too much. Unfortunately, I don��t have your good fortune with worthy families offering you their daughters."

    Wang Guihua felt like she had swallowed something disgusting. Is this a direct insult?

    "Shut up!" Gu Zishan, furious with embarrassment, stood up to strike again, but was stopped by Gu Juntao and Yan Kai.

    Gu Zishan shouted, "Shut your mouth, you��re just asking for it!"

    Gu Junming remained indifferent: "I brought someone here not to seek your eptance, but just to inform you. Even if you don��t agree, I still n to marry her."

    Gu Zishan sneered and said, "Fine, you��re very determined, aren��t you? If you��re so resolute, I��ll say no more. You go ahead and marry Sun Chan; you��re not wee here!"

    "Alright, no problem. I��m leaving now."

    "Get out, get out!"

    With a swoosh, a teacup shattered on the ground.

    Gu Junming looked calmly at his father, then took Sun Chan by the hand and walked out.

    Gu Dongfang shouted, "Who told you to leave? Gu Zishan, are you pretending I��m dead? Are you really going to drive my grandson and granddaughter-inw away like that? Are you nning to kick me out when you��re upset one day?"

    Gu Dongfang rarely got so angry, his voice was deafening, and everyone around him was left with ringing ears.

    Gu Zishan was too afraid to speak at that moment, having always feared this father.

    Gu Dongfang said, "Come here, Sun Chan!"

    Gu Junming tightened his grip slightly, and Sun Chan nodded to him to show he needn��t worry, then walked over herself.

    She was calm andposed, showing no signs of fear or pandering, her expression steady. Sun Chan knew she couldn��t disappoint Gu Junming, who liked her so much, and needed to have confidence in herself.

    Gu Dongfang looked at her for a while, then took out a small jade carving from his pocket and handed it to Sun Chan. It was a light green small jade tiger, exquisitely crafted and very lively. The tiger, about the size of a date, stood fiercely baring its teeth, incredibly lifelike, even the whiskers were clearly visible.

    Gu Dongfang said, "The Gu Family used to have some good stuff, but it was all confiscatedter. This piece was left by my mother, so I��m giving it to you. You��ll be the granddaughter-inw of our family, so pass it on."

    "Dad!" Gu Zishan and Wang Guihua eximed in surprise, Wang Guihua��s voice especially changed.

    Gu Zishan thought his father hadpletely lost it; how could they ept such a daughter-inw?

    Wang Guihua had once had someone appraise this jade tiger; it was high-quality old mine jadeite, worth at least a hundred thousand yuan! She had always thought it would go to Gu Juntao and his wife, so how did it end up with Gu Junming?

    But she couldn��t voice this out loud. Is a daughter-inw allowed to covet her father-inw��s assets?

    Gu Dongfang said to Gu Zishan, "Our Gu Family may have a high status now, but we��ve weathered storms to get here. We can��t look down on people from humble beginnings. This young girl is sensible, reliable, and willing to sacrifice, and I like her very much. Gu Junming is in his twenties, not a child, and if he marries, and you approve, help him out. If not, don��t interfere, and don��t me me if I��m not polite!"

    Wang Guihua quickly said, "Dad..."

    "No more on this matter!" Gu Dongfang scolded. "Gu Zishan, you came from a poor soldier��s background. When did you be so worldly, vicious, snobbish? It��s disgusting! Go read the works of Chairman Mao to cleanse your mind! How can you lead soldiers with this mentality?"

    Wang Guihua quickly fell silent, and Gu Zishan gritted his teeth in silence. Confronted in front of so many people by his son and scolded harshly by his father, he had lost facepletely.

    Gu Dongfang turned again to Sun Chan: "Alright, you two take care of yourselves. That��s all I can do for you. In theing years, live well. Since you��ve said you won��t need us in the future, we won��t intervene if any issues arise. Understood?"

    The implication was that whatever problems might arise, they wouldn��t need to involve the family, and marrying for Gu Junming��s background would be wishful thinking.

    Sun Chan nodded and said sincerely, "Thank you for the opportunity, sir, I will definitely get along well with him."

    "Good, as long as you understand. We��ll have a meal togetherter."

    "We should be going," Gu Junming said. "It��s gettingte. I should hurry back to X City."

    "Alright, probably no one else could eat much either." Gu Dongfang rubbed his forehead.

    Gu Junming and Sun Chan bid farewell to everyone and then left briskly.

    Gu Zishan took a deep breath, suppressing the anger inside him.

    Wang Guihua sighed, "I really didn��t expect that. I thought the elder one would find someone... never mind, let��s leave it to fate. How about you, Juntao? Weren��t you going to bring your partner over today?"

 Chapter 117 Escalation of the Situation

    <h4>Chapter 117: Chapter 117 Esction of the Situation</h4><h4></h4>

    Wang Guihua was somewhat displeased, whose daughter is this? They said they woulde to visit, but still haven��t arrived. Quite ady, huh?

    Yang Hongying nervously clenched her fists, biting her lips, feeling extremely tense, and subconsciously looked at Gu Juntao.

    Gu Juntao nodded at her, indicating it was fine, walked over, and held Yang Hongying��s hand: "My girlfriend is already here; today I brought her to meet you. I wish to marry Yang Hongying."

    Yan Kai also stood up, feeling very nervous, worried about his cousin.

    Wang Guihua was utterly dumbfounded, as if her brain had been hit by something heavy, her ears buzzing, watching her son��s mouth moving but notprehending what he��s saying, only feeling dizzy and thinking the sky was falling.

    The son she raised lovingly from childhood, whom she ced infinite hopes upon, who would have thought he found a widow! And a widow three years older than Gu Juntao! If word got out, the Gu Family would lose all face!

    Gu Zishan said nothing, his face like a sculpture.

    To be honest, he never had great expectations for Gu Juntao. His second son wasn��t gifted; his abilities were average, so he never expected much from him. Therefore, the blow wasn��t as hard as Wang Guihua��s. Besides, he was still mentally exhausted from being provoked by Gu Junming earlier, thus he had no reaction.

    Gu Dongfang was also silent, his expression very calm, unable to tell what he was thinking.

    His heart was in a mess too. He never dreamt that both grandsons would find such matches. Gu Junming chose an orphan, but at least she was a decent girl; Gu Juntao��s girlfriend was a widow, more outrageous than his brother��s choice!

    But his rtionship with Mr. Yan was so good, and Yang Hongying was Yan Kai��s cousin. If the attitude was too harsh, there would be troubleter on. The eldest found Sun Chan, which at most would only lead to some gossip, but finding Yang Hongying... truly troublesome.

    Wang Guihua��s lips quivered, her voice hoarse: "You... what did you say? Say that again... Yang Hongying is your..."

    "Yes, she��s my girlfriend. Yang Hongying and I want to get married."

    An eerie silence fell over the room, terrifying in its quietness. Yang Hongying nervously looked at Wang Guihua and Gu Zishan, both silent. Yang Hongying was mentally prepared but felt extremely sad.

    It wasn��t going to work, dreaming about it from the start was a mistake.

    Wang Guihua looked at Yang Hongying and sneered, "I absolutely won��t agree! Yang Hongying, you��re nothing but a useless widow, a few years older than my son. Don��t you know people have pride and shame? You��re harming my son, and even if I have to risk my life, I won��t ept you!"

    "Sorr- sorry..." Yang Hongying cried even more miserably than Sun Chan earlier.

    Gu Juntao anxiously grabbed her hand: "Don��t cry, I said I wouldn��t give up on you, we will be together for life!"

    "I don��t agree, get out, get out!" Wang Guihua shouted, then rushed at Yang Hongying like a beast, attempting to grab her face.

    Everyone was shocked; Gu Zishan and Gu Juntao grabbed her arms together. Both were soldiers, but Wang Guihua had surprisingly strong strength, pushed them aside, and charged towards Yang Hongying. Her fingertips were about to grip her neck when Yan Kai intervened, grabbing her wrist and swinging it to the side.

    Wang Guihua tried to hit Yang Hongying again but was blocked by Gu Juntao. She struggled to push through but couldn��t break free from Gu Juntao, shouting angrily, "Don��t stop me! I won��t spare her, if she��s here, I won��t be! I won��t agree!"

    "Mom! Why are you hitting her?"

    Wang Guihua waspletely different from her usual graceful and gentle demeanor, with messy hair, red eyes, extremely furious.

    "What right does Yang Hongying have to enter our Gu Family, does she deserve it, a widow? Do you want outsiders tough their heads off? I raised you painstakingly, just for you to repay me like this! Bringing such a... such woman to anger me!" Wang Guihua didn��t dare say too many bad words, breaking down in tears. The Gu Family had never seen her so out of control, showing her extreme disappointment.

    "Mom, what are you saying!" Gu Juntao shouted, "How can you curse people? I absolutely cannot let you bully Hong Ying, Grandpa, help me say something! I must marry Yang Hongying!"

    Yang Hongying covered her face and sobbed, "I knew this would happen ages ago, let��s break up!"

    Seeing her crying, Gu Juntao felt a sharp pain in his heart, rushed over to shake her shoulders, excitedly said, "You promised me! You won��t give up! I��ll be with you, always be together!"

    "What together? You��re not allowed to be with this cheap woman!" Wang Guihua cried.

    Yan Kai coldly said, "My cousin has had a tough fate, marrying a man who was not responsible, truly unlucky. Even if you disapprove, just say it directly, no need to humiliate her like this. Why call her a cheap woman?"

    "That��s my son; I can��t let him be with you! I��ve lived for you all my life, Gu Juntao, how can you break my heart like this!" Wang Guihua sobbed a few times, clutching her heart, looking very distressed, her body weak until she copsed on the ground.

    Gu Zishan quickly supported her: "What are you doing? No one died in the family, is there a need for this?"

    "He is our only child, how can you be so indifferent..."

    Gu Zishan held his wife, very troubled, dissatisfied with Yang Hongying, but Yan Kai and his father were friends of the family...

    Yang Hongying and Wang Guihua cried loudly, each more aggrieved, helpless.

    Gu Juntao knelt and threw himself in front of his mother, also crying, "Mom, pleaseplete us! You��ve always pampered me since I was little; why are you like this now?"

    "To marry her, unless I die!" Wang Guihua pointed at Yang Hongying, wanting to say something but suddenly her eyes rolled back, and she fell to the ground.

    Chaos filled the room again.

    "What happened?"

    Gu Dongfang urgently said, "Your mom just fainted, quickly take her to the hospital!"

    Gu Zishan and Gu Juntao supported Wang Guihua, and Gu Dongfang went to make a phone call.

    Yan Kai saw Yang Hongying��s face was pale like a sheet of paper, on the verge of copse, and hurriedly held her, "Let��s go back first, you��re not feeling well. We��ll talk about thister."

    Yang Hongying was shaking all over, feeling as if she had fallen into an ice hole, wanting to speak but only rolled her eyes back, speechless, and then fell to the ground.

 Chapter 118: Irreparable

    <h4>Chapter 118: Chapter 118: Irreparable</h4><h4></h4>

    Gu Juntao was just supporting his old mother, and seeing his girlfriend faint, he was frantic. He hurried back, grabbed her hand, and shouted loudly, "Hongying! How are you, speak to me, speak!"

    The nanny had been in the kitchen and hadn��te out. Now seeing both of them faint, she hurried out to help, constantly sighing in her heart. The Gu Family, calm for decades, seemed to be facing trouble!

    The ambnce arrived quickly, and everyone hurriedly and flusteredly got the two of them onto the ambnce.

    Gu Juntao held Yang Hongying tightly. He was inherently gentle. Seeing her like this now, tears kept streaming down his face.

    "Don��t scare me! Hongying, we will definitely be together. Trust me, don��t pass out!"

    Gu Zishan put his wife on the ambnce, turned his head and heard his son talking like this, instantly flew into a rage, pped him, causing Gu Juntao to fall in the car, his cheek swelling up immediately.

    "That��s your mom. Do you even care about your parents? You only know she��s your girlfriend, have no filial piety at all, are you an animal?"

    Gu Juntao didn��t say a word, knowing he was too impulsive. But he was really worried about this woman. She suffered so much, was now humiliated by his mother, could he just ignore her?

    Yan Kai came over and patted Gu Juntao on the shoulder, "Don��t worry, I��ll take care of my sister, you go send your mom."

    "But Hongying..."

    "Let��s talk about it when everything calms down. Go see your mom!"

    After Yan Kai finished speaking, he carried his sister and walked straight out. She didn��t want to be in the same hospital as Gu Juntao��s mother, luckily, he drove out himself.

    Gu Juntao watched Yan Kai leave with Yang Hongying, and felt very sad.

    Gu Zishan grabbed him, "What are you thinking? Close the door, let��s go!"

    The fire truck quickly drove away. Gu Dongfang stood at the door and sighed, thinking it was a good time for the family to reunite, but who knew so many things would happen. He shook his head and turned back inside.

    Although he could force Gu Zishan to ept Sun Chan, he knew he had no power over the matter concerning Yang Hongying.

    He understood Wang Guihua��s character very well, even if the family was torn apart and unable to live together, she wouldn��t agree.

    At this time, Gu Junming didn��t know that the trouble his brother caused was even bigger than his own. Now that everything was out in the open, and a result was achieved smoothly, he felt pretty good.

    Sun Chan walked beside Gu Junming, her expression serious, not knowing what she was thinking.

    Gu Junming asked with a smile, "What��s wrong?"

    "Nothing." Sun Chan said, "Your dad doesn��t like me."

    "What does he matter?" Gu Junming said with a faint smile, "You don��t need to take his words seriously. He has no control over me."

    Sun Chan nced at him, a little nervous, "I��m worried I might affect you..."

    "He was like this before you came." Gu Junming held Sun Chan��s hand, "Didn��t grandpa acknowledge you? That��s a good thing, let��s not talk about it anymore. It��s this time, let��s go eat something good. How about the wontons fromst time?"

    Sun Chan nodded, smiling brightly and followed Gu Junming, "Okay!"

    Watching her blooming smile, her eyes curved and bright, Gu Junming felt moved and wanted to lean in and kiss her lips. But he quickly restrained this impulse, coughed, grabbed her small hand, and walked forward. Neither spoke, but both felt very happy inside.

    Gu Junming walked her to the alleyway near her home before leaving. He kept reminding her.

    "Don��t work too long in the business,e home early and don��t get too tired."

    Sun Chan couldn��t help butugh, "Then what money would I earn?"

    "It��s fine not making money, my sry can support you without any problem."

    Sun Chanughed and said, "Then what would I do sitting at home every day, be silly? Don��t worry, I know what I��m doing." She didn��t want to be supported by anyone. The Gu Family already looked down on her, she wanted to live with dignity.

    Before Gu Junming left, he looked around to make sure no one was there, hugged her tightly, then ran off like he was escaping. Sun Chan��s face was still red when she returned home.

    Returning to the t, Guihua grabbed her, "How did it go, smooth or not?"

    Sun Chan took off her cotton-padded jacket, sat on the edge of the kang, and briefly recounted the events.

    Guihua pondered, "It seems half sessful, but I think it��s nothing significant! That woman is a stepmother, she won��t care about you. Your father-inw may be upset, but your grandfather and husband both like you, so it��s not a big deal."

    Sun Chan blushed, lightly hitting Guihua��s arm, "What are you talking about? We aren��t married yet, how can you address it like that."

    Guihuaughed heartily, "Isn��t that quite normal? It��s just a matter of time!"

    "By the way, I saw Wang Dabao. He and Zhao Hong went to the Gu Family, not sure for what."

    Hearing Sun Chan��s words, Guihua��s face turned very unpleasant, stood up and said, "Why else? Naturally digging around to find connections, wanting money from me, to avengest night? But since you��re so connected with the Gu Family now, that brat probably won��t dare to say anything anymore. I��m going to doundry. I brought some covers and sheets from home, let��s wash them for a change."

    "I��ll go with you." Sun Chan changed clothes and went to doundry with her in the outer yard. Hanging them outside, they quickly turned into ice clusters. Sun Chan thought, it��s almost the New Year, I��ll be eighteen soon.

    Guihua said to Sun Chan, "I found my ce, diagonally across from the train station. When I open it,e help if you��re free."

    "Okay." Sun Chan agreed readily.

    Now it was gettingte, so just after four the outside was dark. Sun Chan put on her cotton-padded jacket and prepared to lock the door, when the gate suddenly banged open.

    Sun Chan was startled, "Who is it?"

    "It��s me!" It was Han Dong��s voice.

    He walked in while shouting to the people behind him, "Hurry and move in! Just put it here."

    Only then did Sun Chan notice there were two more people behind him, one holding two boxes of fruit.

    "I brought up the fruits, thinking you might be selling out, so I specially delivered some over." After saying this, she let those two people leave. She and Sun Chan moved things inside.

    Of course, the ce for fruits couldn��t be too warm, so they stayed in the outside corridor. There were two boxes of oranges, a box of apples, and a box of tomatoes. In winter, tomatoes are almost as valuable as fruits, quite profitable, especially brought by Han Dong.

    "It��s really too much trouble for you." Sun Chan felt very embarrassed. It��s rare someone sells fruits and has the other person personally deliver them. Moreover, Han Dong charged her at cost price.

    Han Dong said, "What��s the big deal? Got anything to eat? I haven��t eaten, I��m starving."

 Chapter 119 What to Do with the Fruit

    <h4>Chapter 119: Chapter 119 What to Do with the Fruit</h4><subtxt> Sun Chan hurriedly said, "You haven��t eaten yet? You can eat our leftovers. I��ll cook some noodles for you now."

    "That��s fine, as long as there��s something to eat. I can��t be picky now." He followed quickly inside, couldn��t make homemade noodles in time, so he used some leftover noodles, added two eggs, and Han Dong ate heartily and was very satisfied.

    Guihua looked at him andughed, "Why do you look like a starving ghost reincarnated? Haven��t you eaten at all?"

    "I was kicked out of the house by my parents, drove for hours to get here, I��m starving." Han Dong ate like a hungry wolf, not raising his head.

    "Why did you get kicked out?" Guihua asked curiously, "Could it be you were messing around with another girl?"

    Sun Chan had told Guihua about Han Dong��s situation, and naturally, Guihua knew he was quite the womanizer.

    Han Dong raised both hands and said, "Can you not say that about me? My parents wanted me to go on a blind date, and I didn��t want to, so I ran away."

    Turns out Han Jinshan found a colleague��s daughter for him, a middle school teacher, reportedly very pretty, a well-bred youngdy, especially skilled at ssical poetry, wanted him to meet her and if suitable, set the marriage, and marry next year, which terrified Han Dong.

    With his mouth full of noodles, Han Dong muttered, "I don��t want that, if I��m with a bookworm every day, talking about literary stuff, I��d definitely go crazy! So my parents kicked me out."

    Sun Chan chuckled and pushed some cucumber pickles in front of him, "You always talk like that."

    "I��m not wrong at all," Han Dong said, "I still want to find someone cheerful like myself, not for another ten years at least." At the mention of his marriage, he thought of that awful Lin Hongmei, still lingering around his neighborhood.

    He didn��t know how she��d tracked him down, even found his home, couldn��t get into theplex, just waited nearby, once again caught Han Dong pleading to marry him.

    Han Dong deeply regretted getting involved with someone like her! Luckily most of the time he��s not home now, otherwise, who knows how his parents would handle it. He��s already moved on from his feelings for Sun Chan, and realizes their personalities don��t match��forcing it wouldn��t make him happy.

    He��s matured a bit after this incident.

    Sun Chan thought, Han Dong is in his twenties now, waiting ten years would mean he��d be nearly forty to get married? His parents must be worried. She wanted to advise him but was cut off by Han Dong.

    "Alright, if you really consider me a friend, don��t talk about this, talk about something else!" He put the big bowl on the table edge and said, "I��m leaving in a few days, heading south, before I go my mom wants me to bring a letter to my big brother, I want to invite him to meet, are you going?"

    Sun Chan shook her head with a smile, "I don��t know your big brother."

    "But my big brother is also in the military! He��s in X City, same ce as your guy. If you want to know anything, just ask him, isn��t that simpler?" Han Dong said, "More friends mean more paths, my big brother is a good person, high-ranking too, it could be helpful."

    Sun Chan thought it over and agreed. They nned to meet this weekend.

    After dinner, Han Dong left, grabbing a bottle of cucumber pickles from Sun Chan��s house on his way out, "These are tasty, I��ll take them home for my mom to try."

    "Where are you staying? Do you have a ce in X City, or are you staying at a hotel?" Sun Chan asked curiously.

    Han Dong chuckled, "A friend��s ce, don��t worry. Definitely not sleeping on the street."

    Guihua nced at him, smiled, thinking to herself, this guy still isn��t being honest, probably has a sweetheart somewhere.

    But this time she guessed wrong; Han Dong went to Yan Kai��s house, his mom Tian Jinhua knew Mr. Yan and had treated him before, the rtionship was good, Han Dong was following his mom��s orders to check on Mr. Yan, and bring some new nutritional products.

    After sending Han Dong off, Sun Chan sorted the fruits, the big, good-looking ones priced at two yuan a pound, very small and scarred ones priced at one yuan fifty or five yuan for three pounds. Guihua had nothing to do so she helped.

    Guihua chuckled, "This apple is a pity, look, it��s wilted on the outside, hard to sell such big apples, the topyer in the box is fine, but the ones below aren��t great. Han Dong must��ve been swindled."

    Sun Chan quickly emptied the box of apples, if all were like that, Han Dong would be in trouble, thankfully only a few were, Sun Chan breathed a sigh of relief. But these few apples were big, almost seven or eight ounces each.

    Guihua picked one up, looked at it, and said, "What a pity, these fruits are nice. But since they don��t look good, can��t sell them well. We could make them into canned goods."

    Sun Chan was startled, then grabbed Guihua, "What did you say?"

    "Make canned goods, it��s easy, peel and core them, then cook in sugar water, or make candied fruit, actually candied fruit isn��t just hawthorn, other fruits can work too! It could be more profitable than just selling fruits."

    "Canned goods are easy to make, if possible, I��d like to learn how to make candied fruit." Sun Chan said.

    Guihua thought about it and said, "Then I��ll ask around for you? I know an old man who seems to know how."

    Sun Chan was delighted, she sorted the good fruits together, preparing to sell them the next day, and the ones already wilted or damaged, she set aside and put in sugar water, soon the pot was ready, and the room was filled with a sweet fruity smell.

    Guihua put the big pot outside to chill, came back smiling, "Later we��ll bottle them and sell them together, canned fruits like these sell for three yuan in stores, you can sell them for one yuan fifty or two yuan, guaranteed to have buyers."

    Sun Chanughed, "That��s what I was thinking too."

    "You really have a knack for business, little girl. Once my hotel is up, I��ll source goods from you." Guihua said.

    Sun Chan smiled and thanked her, "Once our business is stable, bring your baby over. You miss him, don��t you?"

    "I don��t really miss him, whenever I see him, I think of his father, it��s frustrating." Although she said that her smile faded, who wouldn��t miss the child? He��s only a few months old, but she��s too busy now to manage.

    It was alreadyte, both were a bit sleepy, put out the stove and went to bed.</subtxt>

 Chapter 120 Su Miao’s Matter

    <h4>Chapter 120: Chapter 120 Su Miao��s Matter</h4><h4></h4>

    Before falling asleep, Sun Chan recalled that today��s trip to the Gu Family was quite smooth overall. She will try harder to make Gu Zishan ept her in the future.

    Things went smoothly for her, but at the Yan Family, it was a gloomy scene.

    Yang Hongying had woken up early and was brought back to the Yan Family by Yan Kai. She sat on the sofa, wiping her tears, lookingpletely drained, her face as pale as paper, and she appeared very worn out.

    Both Mr. Yan and Yan Kai wereforting her, but it wasn��t very effective. Everyone knew there was practically no room for maneuvering in this matter.

    Yang Hongying forced a smile and said, "Cousin, don��t worry about me. I anticipated this possibility all along. The Gu Family won��t ept me, and I can ept that. It��s just that it was troublesome for you today."

    Yan Kai frowned slightly and said, "What is our rtionship? Why say such polite words? I truly hope things go well for you."

    "Yes, I understand." Tears fell again from Yang Hongying��s eyes.

    Mr. Yan said, "I think we should pause on this matter. I��ll find time to talk with the old man from the Gu Family."

    "No need..." Yang Hongying didn��t want to lose face any further. What happened today had thoroughly extinguished any spark and hope inside her heart. She smiled and said, "I think we should just break up. Anyway, I can survive on my own."

    "How can you, as someone from the military, say such things? Has Gu Juntao really given up? Gu Dongfang hasn��t even said anything yet! You mustn��t surrender yourself to despair like this!" Yan Kai irritatedly tugged at his cor while looking at his cousin.

    Such a wonderful girl, lively and cheerful, just because of marrying someone, does it mean her life is ruined?

    Gu Juntao��s personal conditions were average, but Yan Kai didn��t fancy him at all, and couldn��t fathom why they would pick his sister apart.

    Yang Hongying forced a smile, stood up, and said, "I should go back."

    Mr. Yan naturally wanted to keep her, but Yang Hongying insisted on leaving, and could only have Yan Kai apany her back.

    As the two were just stepping out, they saw Han Dong rushing in hurriedly: "Is everyone here? I came to see the old man!"

    Yan Kai hurriedly greeted him, but Mr. Yan just nced at Han Dong, unwilling to acknowledge him��such a sly and idle brat. Heard his family wanted him to join the army and he tly refused, not sure why Tian Jinhua ended up with such a troublesome child.

    Yang Hongying kept her head down and left, Yan Kai was not familiar with Han Dong and just nodded, exchanging a few pleasantries before leaving.

    Han Dong curiously asked, "What��s going on? There��s a fight?"

    "There��s a small issue. Have a seat." Mr. Yan pointed to the sofa ahead.

    "Alright, old man, I came to check on you." Han Dong noticed they didn��t mention anything, so didn��t pry further. He handed over gifts and said a few words.

    "Is everything okay with your family?"

    "Pretty good."

    "I heard your dad seems to be having heart problems and had an episode?"

    Han Dong��s expression shifted a bit, then he chuckled and said, "It was the neighbors making a fuss, something happened, furniture fell over. My dad was sleeping and got startled, but it��s nothing serious now. My mom also said it��s fine."

    "Neighbors, aren��t they mostly families of officials? How could they cause such amotion?" Mr. Yan didn��t pay much mind, just remarked casually.

    Han Dong, who loved gossip, initially wanted to share more of the juicy drama, but seeing Mr. Yan��sck of interest, he had to let it pass.

    He stayed for a while longer before finding a hotel to book a room and went to sleep.

    In the stillness of night, most families were asleep, except Zhao Yingjun��s home which was still brightly lit. Su Miao sat on the sofa wiping tears while Zhang Yingjun and his wife, Su Jinxiu, were arguing furiously in the bedroom. The cause was Su Miao.

    Yesterday, Su Miao felt unwell andy down at home. As she was sleeping, she felt something constantly on her arm. When she opened her eyes, she saw her uncle grinning at her.

    She was so frightened that she sat up immediately, Zhao Yingjun hurriedlyforted her but tightly held her hand. Every hair on Su Miao��s body stood as she hurried to push him away. But Zhao Yingjun was already about to kiss her.

    At that moment, Sun Jinxiu came in, saw her husband and Su Miao like this, and went berserk, rushing at Su Miao with ps and curses. Su Miao initially put up with it, but after a while couldn��t stand it.

    "Why are you hitting me? What does this have to do with me? I was sleeping soundly here, but it was uncle who came to me. Why me me and not him?"

    Zhao Yingjun said, "I didn��t do anything. I saw my niece��s nket fell on the ground and helped pick it up!"

    "Scoundrels! Both of you are scoundrels!" Su Jinxiu knew deep down this wasn��t her niece��s fault, but still felt her anger boiling inside. What a situation! If people find out, what face will she have? Additionally, she was now pregnant, how could she quarrel with her husband? If they divorced, could she find anyone better?

    Right then she wanted Zhao Yingjun to kick Su Miao out quickly, while Zhang Yingjun felt guilty, denying everything vehemently, never admitting it, and as they argued, a cab identally fell, which startled the Han Family.

    The Han Family heard themotion next door and gradually understood, what... what kind of situation is this?

    Knowing Zhao Yingjun had that... never imagined it would be so disgraceful!

    Su Jinxiu, heavily pregnant, caused quite a ruckus, crying and yelling until she fainted directly from anger, even bleeding.

    Zhao Yingjun feared it might turn deadly, and hurriedly ran next door to seek help from Tian Jinhua.

    Tian Jinhua helped send her to the hospital immediately, both families were restless.

    Meanwhile, Su Miao anxiously waited at home for a day, afraid to abruptly leave, knowing if a problem arose her parents wouldn��t spare her.

    Sure enough, today when Su Jinxiu returned and saw her alright, she finally breathed a sigh of relief, yet soon Su Jinxiu demanded Zhao Yingjun drive Su Miao out: "With her, there��s no room for me. I can��t bear to see her! If you wish to bring ruin and disgrace, then keep her!"

    Zhao Yingjun felt incredibly annoyed: "If she goes out like this, what would the neighbors think? Our reputation would be ruined!"

    "We have long lost face together. Zhao Yingjun, I still have one in my belly now. If you have any conscience, there��s nothing more to say, quickly send her away." Su Jinxiu wept.

    "But she��s your own niece..."

    "I don��t care!" Su Jinxiu, seeming insane, tossed her bag at Su Miao��s feet: "Leave immediately, I��ve fed you long enough, always freeloading. Is this how you repay me?"

    Su Miao gritted her teeth, ring at Su Jinxiu, thinking, who asked you to keep me for free, clearly I had to work, not daring to do anything at home, serving you tirelessly, yet you look down on me?

 Chapter 121: Schemes in the Heart

    <h4>Chapter 121: Chapter 121: Schemes in the Heart</h4><h4></h4>

    Moreover, everyone says her aunt is living well, but now it seems like this; what kind of husband did she marry, something like a beast! She originally could have left with dignity, but seeing her aunt like this, she thought about it and really couldn��t swallow this. So she had a sense of stirring things up.

    She said, "It��s toote now, I��ll leave first thing in the morning."

    Su Jinxiu continued to shout, "No way, get out, don��t you understand humannguage? Get out right now!"

    Su Miao jumped up: "In the middle of the night, where does aunt want to drive me to? I don��t even know what evil thing I��ve done, uncle, if you also think I shouldn��t be here, just say the word, and I��ll leave without a second thought. If I��ve done nothing wrong yet get driven out in the night, and it gets back to the vige, I won��t be able to live. I haven��t done anything, why are you treating me like this?" As she finished, her eyes reddened, and she began to sob softly.

    Su Jinxiu was so furious seeing her niece so defiant that she almost fainted. Seeing her husband��s eyes fixed on Su Miao, she was even angrier. Both women had their grievances, and they both started to cry.

    Su Jinxiu nowadays was just a shrew; she had been pestering persistently during her pregnancy, which had long annoyed Zhao Yingjun.

    Now, because of pregnancy, her body was bloated, and she looked haggard. But look at Su Miao, her face was charming, like a flower with dew, delightful to behold.

    Zhao Yingjun waved his hand impatiently, "Enough! Su Jinxiu, even if you are unreasonable, have some limits. Your niece is like this, what else do you want? You won��t be satisfied until you drive her out, will you? You��re pregnant, yet you��re being so vicious!"

    Su Jinxiu screamed as soon as she heard her husband defending someone else, "Get out! All of you get out, or I��ll die right here in front of you!"

    She ran to the kitchen and grabbed a kitchen knife, waving it at her husband and niece, "If you don��t get out tonight, I��m going to fight to the death with you! I��ll let everyone in the neighborhood see how shameless you are!"

    Both saw Su Jinxiu shing around madly and were terrified. Zhao Yingjun, though lustful, was concerned about his reputation. He pushed aside Su Jinxiu��s wrist and then grabbed the luggage, thrusting it into Su Miao��s hands.

    "Alright, your aunt has gone mad! You bettery low for now, I��lle find you when I have time," he said, not waiting for Su Miao��s response, and pushed her out directly.

    The door mmed shut, leaving Su Miao out in the cold corridor.

    From the room came the sounds of Su Jinxiu��s cries and uproar, but soon it quieted down. Su Jinxiu wasn��t foolish; she fought hard for her marriage and couldn��t let it go to waste. It was enough to drive out that fox spirit.

    Meanwhile, Su Miao, on the corridor, gave a cold smile, picked up her luggage, and walked out. What a bunch of bastards! One day, I��ll have you all kneeling at my feet.

    As she walked out of the neighborhood, she saw the gaze of the gate guard, somewhat inexplicably contemptuous. It made her feel particrly ufortable, but she still held her head high and walked out inrge strides.

    In fact, she had money on her; if she stayed in a hotel outside, she could manage it for a month. But Su Miao thought, what if she went to find Gu Junming? Driven out by her aunt overnight, how pitiful, maybe she could get some care from him; he did promise to find her a job.

    So that night, she took a vehicle to find Gu Junming, thinking that if he arranged a ce for her to stay, she might be seen by others, and over time, someone might gossip.

    By then, she could be ambiguous, letting others think she was his girlfriend.

    Su Miao was a young maiden; if her reputation was ruined, she would have no choice but to marry him.

    With this n, she took the bus overnight to Gu Junming��s camp. But who knew that upon arrival she was told that because of an earthquake in the nearby city, the entire battalion had gone for disaster relief and was not there.

    No one knew who she was, so naturally they didn��t dare let her into the camp. So Su Miao hit a dead end, returned angrily, found a hotel, sat there, wasted her ticket money, didn��t see the person, was wronged by her uncle, and the more she thought about it, the angrier she got, sitting on the bed fuming.

    Su Miao gritted her teeth, "I definitely won��t be unlucky forever. I will be great, driving you all mad with jealousy!"

    But ultimately, she was still unwilling to give up, wanting to wait for Gu Junming to return, and then seek refuge with him.

    Su Miao started scheming against Gu Junming.

    Sun Chan had no idea of Su Miao��s intentions. That night, after both she and Guihua had gone to bed, there was a knock at the door, and they both got a bit flustered, hurriedly reached out and knocked, "Who is it?"

    "It��s me, the Deputy Battalion Commander sent me to deliver a message."

    It was Xiao Wu they had met before.

    Sun Chan quickly went over to wee him in, and Xiao Wu handed Sun Chan a letter.

    Opening it, she saw just a few lines, very scrawly: Earthquake in a neighboring city, I have to go on a mission, aiming to return soon. I��lle find you then.

    Sun Chan looked nervously at Xiao Wu in front of her, "Has your Deputy Battalion Commander left?"

    "Yes, I have to go too. But I need to prepare some things and deliver messages to several battalionmanders and regimentalmanders�� families, going overnight! He was afraid you��d worry, telling me to let you know, don��t worry, there��s no more earthquake, it��s very safe."

    "Then... then I��ll get you a cup of water, sit for a while, wait a moment!" Sun Chan hurriedly started looking for things.

    She thought about it, these people going for disaster relief, having trouble eating and drinking, might be staying in tents, certainly very inconvenient.

    So she first got out all the freshly baked pancakes from the kitchen, then threw the remaining eggs into the pot to boil, the stove was very hot, so they��d be cooked soon. After cooling them in cold water for a moment, she packed them into a bag, also found some fruits, and Guihua helped out on the side,ying out some pickles and such.

    Sun Chan had been selling fruit outside, so she prepared many cotton gloves, knitted somerge cotton socks, which she also got out, handing them all to Xiao Wu.

    Xiao Wu smiled, "You��ve thought it through well, we have everything else, just no cotton socks."

    "It��s nothing, use them for you two." Sun Chan took out some money to give to Xiao Wu, but he refused.

    "Don��t worry, the higher-ups provide my clothes, food, and lodging for free. I must go, I have quite a few more homes to visit." Xiao Wu soon left.

    Sun Chan saw him out, nagging him to tell Gu Junming to be careful.

    Xiao Wu thought, no wonder the Deputy Battalion Commander likes this young sister-inw so much, she may be young, but she��s very caring, unlike the othermanders�� wives who only worry, one even cried, yet didn��t think of these things at all.

 Chapter 122: Went for Disaster Relief

    <h4>Chapter 122: Chapter 122: Went for Disaster Relief</h4><h4></h4>

    Sun Chan was worried about Gu Junming, and she didn��t sleep well all night. The next day, she had a bit of a cough.

    Guihua said, "You should rest. Take care not to get sick."

    "No need, I��d only worry more if I stayed at home." Sun Chan still decided to continue selling fruit, and on the way, she bought a dozen or so canning jars from the supply store, intending to make canned fruit to sell.

    Additionally, she remembered that she hadn��t mailed the letter to Yang Liu, so she patted her own head and sent it off.

    She pushed her bicycle along the streets, selling fruit, not just in the alleys but also on the main roads. By the end of the morning, business was quite good. At noon, she didn��t go home to eat; she bought a bun from a bun stall and ate it dry. Around three in the afternoon, the sky began to darken, and she went home, still scared from thest incident with Wang Dabao.

    Guihua had already rented her shop. Seeing Sun Chan return, she smiled and said, "How��s the selling? Tomorrow,e and see the new inn with me. I��m going to do it up well!"

    Sun Chan was delighted to hear this, "That��s great news! Do you know how much money it cost?"

    "I practically invested all my savings into it," Guihua smiled, "If this doesn��t work out, I��ll be penniless and end up selling fruit with you."

    Sun Chan quicklyughed, "No way, you��re amazing, Sister Guihua. You won��t lose money."

    "Don��t worry, when I do things, I do them decisively. Even if I lose, I won��t regret it. I��m way better than that Wang Dabao, just a useless fool who still wants to do business. He��ll lose everything sooner orter," she sneered.

    Sun Chanughed, "He��s indeed not great, but he��ll know your worth sooner orter."

    "Let��s not talk about him, let��s make dinner."

    The two of them made dinner together.

    After dinner, Sun Chan started counting the money. Today, she calcted and realized she had sold thirty jin of fruit. After deducting costs, she had a profit, which was more than the hundred or so yuan that a worker earned monthly. Sun Chan thought, now she could open a bank ount and deposit the money.

    Whether for future schooling or marriage, money was essential... The thought of marriage made her think of Gu Junming, and her face warmed. She was worried about him being on a mission, her mind was all over the ce.

    Guihua, after washing the dishes, saw Sun Chan staring nkly at the money on her bed and smiled, "What are you thinking?"

    "Nothing much, I just feel that selling fruit, though tiring, really makes money."

    "You call this making money? Wait till I open the inn; then you��ll know what real earnings are," Guihua said confidently.

    Sun Chan nodded and smiled, "I believe you. I��ll work hard too."

    The two tidied up and went to sleep. Sun Chan still missed him very much and didn��t sleep well.

    At that time, Gu Junming had been busy in the earthquake zone for a day and a night. This time the earthquake wasn��trge, but because it was close to the surface, many buildings copsed, with people trapped inside. In some ces, they could use machines, but in others, they could only dig by hand. As soon as they arrived, they risked their lives saving people. Although it was winter, everyone was sweating. Seeing those trapped being rescued, Gu Junming felt very proud.

    It wasn��t until midnight that Gu Junming was reced and returned to camp, which was just a makeshift shelter. He gathered snow in a basin to melt on the stove. Right now, everyone��s focus was on saving lives, so food and drink were secondary. The lunchbox with two buns and stewed cabbage was frozen solid. Gu Junming frowned and ced it by the stove, intending to eat itter.

    Xiao Wu came in as Gu Junming was washing his face.

    "Boss! I��m here!"

    Gu Junming nced at Xiao Wu, "Why are you only back now? cking off, not willing to work?"

    "I swear, boss, you can��t imagine how unlucky I was. Battalion Commander Wang��s wife found out he was on a rescue mission and went into earlybor in her panic. I couldn��t just leave her, so I rushed her to the hospital. Only after she gave birth to a big chubby boy did I make it back," Xiao Wu exined ruefully, reflecting on how he��d carried a pregnant woman weighing over 170 pounds down from the sixth floor. Wasn��t easy, was it?

    Gu Junming gave Xiao Wu a kick, "Can��t you be more tactful? Besides, there��s no real danger here to scare someone like that."

    Xiao Wu scratched his head; how was he supposed to know it was so serious?

    "Be careful next time, get lost now."

    "Oh, I almost forgot." As he reached the door, Xiao Wu hurried back and handed over the items Sun Chan had given him.

    "Little sister-inw asked me to give you this. It��s some food and socks. I took an egg, two fruits, and a pair of socks. I��m off." Xiao Wu hurried off, fearing another kick from the Deputy Battalion Commander.

    Gu Junming, who was starving, devoured two or three eggs right away, since they didn��t get cold easily. The pancakes had been kept in the car and were still warm, so Gu Junming gobbled them up, eating pickles alongside while looking at the socks, feeling a warmth in his heart.

    It wasn��t just Gu Junming; Wang Hu and Yan Kai were also there, albeit in different directions.

    Wang Hu went to a steel factory to rescue some valuable machinery, while Yan Kai helped maintain order. During an earthquake, there are both good people and not-so-good ones. Some might use the opportunity to loot, so precautions were necessary.

    So, the three didn��t run into each other, but they all understood that this was a good opportunity, and none wanted to lose. They aimed to do their best.

    Faced with such a major event, Yan Kai couldn��t deal with Yang Hongying��s matter.

    Gu Juntao wanted to go, but Wang Guihua had someone hold him back, "You��ve never done this kind of work, so why go and cause trouble?"

    She had just returned from the hospital, looking very worn out, having broken down several times over her son and Yang Hongying. Her only thought now was to control her son and stop him from messing up further. Her previous education was too lenient, leading the child to act on whims and make mistakes. She needed to be stricter in the future!

    Gu Juntao was agitated, "Mom! My big brother and Yan Kai went! I��m a soldier too, why won��t you let me go?"

    "Enough, you know why you became a soldier, don��t you? You��re not suited for it; just stay safely in the rear," Wang Guihua dismissed her son��s thoughts, he��s simply not cut out for it.

    Gu Juntao looked incredulously at his mother, "You look down on me that much? Am I that foolish?"

 Chapter 123 Very Dissatisfied

    <h4>Chapter 123: Chapter 123 Very Dissatisfied</h4><h4></h4>

    "What I��m saying is true. You were able to join the military because of your father��s influence..."

    Gu Juntao clenched his teeth and turned to leave: "If that��s the case, I��d rather just quit the service. You think I��m useless, so what��s the point of being in the military?"

    "Are you crazy?" Wang Guihua hurriedly got out of bed to stop her son: "Just hang in there a bit longer; once you get promoted, you can transfer to a good ce. If you apply for discharge now, what can you do? You��ll only end up as a worker!"

    She believed she was deeply concerned about her son, but who knew Gu Juntao only felt greater pain upon hearing this.

    "Mom, what do you mean? If I don��t have the ability, how can I get promoted? With so many talented people, why choose me?"

    "What��s wrong with you? Have you forgotten who your grandfather and father are? With them around, you��ll get promoted too. Don��t be like your brother, who just rushes forward recklessly. What��s the use of that?" Wang Guihua looked down on Gu Junming, thinking he��s just being pretentious: "Not leveraging connections and relying solely on hard work will lead to a life without sess!"

    Gu Juntao wasn��t the type to argue with his parents, but his heart was heavy with unspeakable frustration. Not allowed to be in a rtionship or go to the disaster area��what��s he supposed to be, a waste?

    "What��s with that look? Has Yang Hongying poisoned your mind? I knew she��s trouble; she can��t stand seeing you do well!"

    Gu Juntao said, teeth clenched: "I don��t feel well, I��m going back to the unit." He turned and walked away.

    Wang Guihua hurriedly followed: "You��re not allowed to go to the disaster area, do you hear me? I��ve already informed your leaders; you won��t be able to go!"

    Gu Juntao stomped downstairs and ran off quickly.

    Wang Guihua clutched her chest in anger, thinking, it��s all Yang Hongying��s fault. Since she started dating Gu Juntao, he��s be so disobedient. They have to break up!

    But she also knew it wouldn��t be easy. Even this time, when she pleaded and cried from her hospital bed, he refused to break up. It��s infuriating! Wang Guihua decided to find some time to negotiate with Yang Hongying and make her disappear.

    Knowing that resolving this wouldn��t be easy, she decided to first look for Gu Zishan, thinking he must intervene in his son��s affairs.

    Gu Zishan was feeling down, mostly because of Gu Junming. This morning, he��d received a call from a provincial military district leader, who subtly hinted that Gu Junming should not be looking for a partner. After the New Year, a senior official��s daughter would be transferring over for an internship. She��s of simr age and had reportedly learned in the same ce, and wasn��t opposed to having Gu Junming around.

    Gu Zishan didn��t particrly like Sun Chan, now he was even more displeased! Giving up such a well-bred youngdy to choose a vige orphan? He couldn��t understand it.

    While pondering how to force Gu Junming to break up, his wife entered.

    Looking weary, clearly still troubled by Gu Juntao. Things have been chaotic these past few days.

    Wang Guihua sat across from him, and for a moment neither spoke.

    Gu Zishan finally broke the silence: "If you ask me, Juntao and Yang Hongying aren��t impossible."

    "What are you saying? You want Juntao with a widow?" She looked up in disbelief,pletely unexpected that he would say such a thing!

    "We know exactly what Juntao is like: average in talent and average-looking, with little future prospects. Contentment brings happiness. Despite her circumstances, Yang Hongying has the support of Mr. Yan. Yan Kai deeply cares for his sister and won��t let her suffer. If they get married, it could benefit the Gu Family as well. Contentment brings happiness, as long as Gu Juntao is happy. You��ve introduced so many girls, but none of them were interested in him."

    Wang Guihua was so angry her chest hurt, her nails almost digging into her skin. So this is how you see my son! Yet she said nothing, and Gu Zishan thought she understood, so he continued speaking.

    "On the other hand, Gu Junming supposedly saved many people in the disaster area; the leaders even specially praised him. He��s the hope of the Gu Family. The eldest son and heir... I just told you, General Wang called and said the leader��s daughter arriving after the New Year is quite interested in Gu Junming..."

    "I��m talking about Gu Juntao��s issues, why bring up the eldest?" Wang Guihua shot up: "If you have any capability, get them to break up. The old man has already agreed! You��re deceiving the eldest, and the second son was just picked up?"

    She simply couldn��t take it anymore, trying to keep Gu Juntao down everywhere, yet who knew she��d lose so thoroughly! The eldest catches the eye of a leader��s daughter, while the second is left with a widow...

    "What are you saying? I��m just stating the facts, don��t be upset."

    "How about this, let Juntao meet that leader��s daughter. The Gu Family and our Wang Family aren��t ordinary families, right?"

    Gu Zishan frowned: "What nonsense are you talking? She has eyes on the older brother; how can you mix the younger brother into it? Besides, that woman will be twenty-seven after the New Year! Juntao is only twenty-three."

    "What��s wrong with that? We��re not marrying her for love, it��s about family status. It��s not about idyllic romantic partnerships." Wang Guihua was very righteous.

    "You��re simply talking nonsense!" Gu Zishan was angry: "Such a prestigious family, willing to consider Gu Junming purely because they like him! Do you really think they want to hitch themselves to you and support your son? Does your son rival an immortal in looks,pelling her to marry and bolster the Gu Family? Stop dreaming!"

    "It��s all for my son��s sake! I only have this one child, who else should I help?" Wang Guihua started crying.

    Seeing his wife cry, Gu Zishan could only sigh: "Honestly, Juntao really is just average..."

    "That��s your excuse! Anyway, I��d rather die than agree to a marriage with Yang Hongying. As for your Gu Junming, do as you please, I haven��t interfered before and won��t in the future!" She finished speaking and walked out, mming the door loudly.

    From the start, Gu Junming was cold as ice towards his stepmother. When he was young, she indeed was too harsh, but that doesn��t justify treating her like an enemy for over a decade, right?

    If Gu Junming gets married to that woman and rises in status, what good times await them?

    She absolutely couldn��t allow Gu Junming and Sun Chan to break up.

    Wang Guihua inadvertently sided with Sun Chan. She went to find Yang Hongying, nning to tackle her side first, only to learn Yang Hongying had taken leave and returned home. Without meeting her, Wang Guihua had to return for now.

    She thought, even if you can hide, I don��t believe you can escape forever. You��ll break up sooner orter.

    Upon returning home, she learned Gu Juntao went to the disaster area, despite pressure from above, he resolutely went anyway.

 Chapter 124 Yang Liu Has Also Arrived

    <h4>Chapter 124: Chapter 124 Yang Liu Has Also Arrived</h4><h4></h4>

    When Wang Guihua found out, she was so angry she fainted on the spot.

    The household was in chaos, and they rushed her to the hospital.

    Gu Dongfang usually didn��t deal with family affairs, though he was aware of his daughter-inw��s bias toward Gu Juntao. Initially, he was angry, but he knew Gu Juntao wasn��t exactly capable. So, not going was fine with him. But when Juntao defied his mother��s wishes and went to the disaster area, he was stunned for a moment, then smiled with satisfaction.

    After all, he has Gu Family blood, definitely not a coward! But Gu Zishan was endlessly worried, visibly more worn out these days.

    Sun Chan had been worried about Gu Junming, dreaming at night about Junming falling into a big pit or being hit by stones, waking up scared and drenched in cold sweat.

    She didn��t dare talk to Guihua, so she deliberately kept herself busy, spending any free time at the storefront Guihua had rented. It was a good spot, near the train station, and in front of it was an inn, which was not sessfully managed, thus rented out.

    They took over now, and it didn��t even need a major renovation, just some simple fixing. Guihua was busy every day getting people to organize the ce.

    The flooring needed recing, as did the wallpaper, curtains, and bedding.

    Sun Chan helped for two days,ing in the morning and leaving in the afternoon. After all, the fruit still needed to be sold fresh outside, and several jars of fruit preserves she��d made needed selling too��earning them a total of about thirty yuan a day.

    Sun Chan was busy with selling fruits and helping with the Guihua Inn, and still had to cook at night, leaving her exhausted.

    Fortunately, on the third day, Yang Liu arrived with her luggage, and since Sun Chan was close to the station, she went to pick her up.

    Yang Liu had lost some weight. Seeing Sun Chan, she immediately hugged her: "I��ve missed you so much! How have you been?"

    Sun Chanughed, "I��ve missed you too! You��re really not regretting it? That was a good job you left."

    "Yeah, because it was such a good job, many people wanted me out! You wouldn��t believe how fierce thepetition is now. Better to leave early than be fired, which isn��t a good look."

    Yang Liu told her that dozens of temporary workers had joined the sanatorium, just the cafeteria had gained four or five new staff members, allpeting for employment. So many fighting for two permanent positions, the rivalry was intense.

    "I was often framed, losing things, much food spoiled, and people iming it was my fault. Denying it was useless; no one believed me. I got docked wages several times, had no choice but didn��t want to fall back on my father. Your letter came just in time, so I quit right away!" Yang Liu said with relief.

    She and Sun Chan were both temporary workers, kind-hearted with no background, finding themselves helpless due to the intensepetition.

    Sun Chan regretted not sending the letter earlier.

    Yang Liu asked, "What work is there? Tell me quickly, I can��t wait! I want to make a good effort and not let you down!"

    Sun Chan couldn��t help butugh: "It��s not me, the inn is my friend��s."

    "Okay, it doesn��t matter whose it is, let��s just get to work. I��m running low on money, otherwise I��ll be going hungry."

    Yang Liu was very eager, and Sun Chan took her to Guihua��s ce. She and Guihua got along well, both having lively personalities, chatting away merrily.

    Sun Chan was introverted in the vige, tormented in the past, afraid to speak. But alongside these two, she too started enjoying the conversation.

    Yang Liu didn��t move elsewhere, temporarily staying in the house Sun Chan rented.

    With Yang Liu, Sun Chan didn��t have to go to the Guihua Inn every day; she started selling fruits again. Guihua found an old man who taught Sun Chan how to make sugar-coated hawthorn. Making syrup is aplex process, and initially, it didn��t go smoothly. So she learned gradually, though she made many jars of fruit preserves.

    With the cold weather, fewer people were out. Those feeling peckish saw her goods and came out to take a look. She sold at a lower price than the market, even cheaper by a few cents, so business was good.

    Besides selling apple preserves, Sun Chan also sold hawthorn and pear ones, buying less fresh fruits from the market, cooking them into preserves to sell. No rush, they wouldn��t spoil quickly, and leftovers could be eaten.

    Han Dong came by once; the news was the same, due to the earthquake, they could only wait and see about his big brother.

    Sun Chan asked, "Is it dangerous?"

    "Don��t worry, things are almost settled. My big brother is fine; your partner should be the same."

    Sun Chan smiled but didn��t say anything. As long as they��re safe, hurry home.

    The Guihua Inn was being set up sessfully, running smoothly.

    Two weekster on the weekend, just on New Year��s Day, Han Dong arrived early. He saw Yang Liuing out of the coal shed and was surprised: "Oh, why are you here?"

    "Can��t I be here?" Yang Liuughed, "I��m living here now."

    "You can��t just live here rent-free."

    Sheughed, "Got it. Don��t worry, I��ll pay when I have money."

    They joked as they went inside, found Sun Chan. Han Dong said, "Today I saw my big brother. Just got back. Since it��s a holiday, let��s visit!"

    Sun Chan thought, maybe he��s with Gu Junming at the same ce, wondering if Junming is back too? The thought made her anxious. Hastily preparing, she left with Han Dong.

    Yang Liu said with a smile, "You should eat something, otherwise, if you faint from hunger, the trip will be in vain."

    Sun Chan blushed, having forgotten she hadn��t eaten.

    Han Dong chuckled softly, thinking to himself, looks like she��s quite fond of the other person, I have no chance.

    Han Dong hadn��t eaten either, so they grabbed a bite��boiled noodles, each bowl with an egg, plus a few pickled veggies on the table.

    The four tidied up the table and ate breakfast together, Guihua being the eldest, sitting at the innermost part of the heated tform.

    Han Dong and Sun Chan sat opposite each other, Yang Liu the youngest, took a chair and sat below.

    Breakfast was simple, but the pickles were quite plentiful, and they chatted with Guihua about the inn ns while eating. Both Han Dong and Guihua had some understanding of business. They exchanged ideas, with Sun Chan and Yang Liu listening intently. Guihua wanted Yang Liu to help find a few people.

    "You��ve worked as a server at a sanatorium, you should know what quality service is. Help me pick a couple of good ones; I don��t wantzy types."

    "No worries," Yang Liu said with a smile, "I��ll work hard!"

    Guihua��s promised wages were much more than the sanatorium��s cafeteria, and she even promised that if there was a future, Yang Liu could be promoted to management. Of course, it��s worth the effort.

 Chapter 125: Visiting

    <h4>Chapter 125: Chapter 125: Visiting</h4><h4></h4>

    Guihua said again, "This ce is fine, but the room on the first floor is a bit too damp. If peoplee, should we lower the price or redo it? But if we do that, heating will cost a lot. It��s a bit inconvenient." She was really worried, even though she had quite a bit of money, she realized that it really wasn��t much when it came time to use it; it disappeared like running water.

    No one said anything; it was quite a hassle.

    Han Dongughed and said, "I think we should just leave it as it is, or give it to the staff to live in."

    "The staff have a ce; there��s a former warehouse I��ve set up as dormitory-style amodation. But there are quite a few rooms on the first floor, and if they��re left empty, it��d be a waste. If people find out about the amodation, what if they don��t like it?"

    Sun Chan thought for a moment and said, "I have an idea, you could use some of these first-floor rooms for business."

    "Business?"

    Sun Chan said, "Yes, those rooms aren��t very big. You can open ss windows on the outside, set up counters inside, and sell things like breakfast or daily necessities. You could also sell things that train travelers often buy, and it would be convenient for residents to buy items like toilet paper and towels."

    Han Dong said, "But this house isn��t warm..."

    Sun Chan smiled and said, "Let��s put stoves on the first floor, and chimneys, let them burn their own stoves. We don��t have to supply coal ourselves. If they don��t mind the cold, they can use our heating system. If they��re afraid of the cold, they��ll have to buy their own coal. How about it?"

    "Great idea!" Guihua pped the table excitedly, "Why didn��t I think of that? Let me think; I��ll keep a room to sell some daily necessities myself, and rent out the rest. Running a breakfast shop is too troublesome, I won��t do it, I��ll let someone else do it and just collect rent. Also, Sun Chan, I��ll give you a counter to sell fruit. I almost forgot about it."

    She had previously thought of setting up a stand outside for her to sell during the summer, but now it��s just perfect, no need to worry about her being cold.

    Sun Chan hurriedly waved her hands, "I��ll rent, no need for that. If you don��t charge me, I can��t rent it, you must charge."

    Guihuaughed, "This girl is sincere! Fine, I��ll charge you half then, no more arguing."

    Yang Liu listened on the side, stunned, thinking Sun Chan is indeed smart,ing up with something the two business owners didn��t even think of, and so easily.

    Sun Chan was very grateful, saving half the rent meant a lot of things. They were all very good to her, and she had made quite a few friends in this life.

    After breakfast, Sun Chan went to the barracks with Han Dong. Han Dong drove a small car, but because of the snow on the road, he wasn��t driving very fast.

    Sun Chan thought about Gu Junming, wondering if everything was going smoothly for him.

    Han Dong said, "Being a soldier is really not easy! I used to think about what they could do, finishing exercises and eating, but who would have thought they had to go to dangerous ces."

    Sun Chanughed, "Soldiers are very great."

    "Of course. You, the future soldier��s wife, are equally great."

    Sun Chan��s face blushed, future soldier��s wife... she would indeed be one in the future.

    Gradually, they saw a green area up ahead, with a spacious yard full of parked cars. Sun Chan��s heart started racing, she was about to meet him again. Did he get hurt?

    At this moment, Han Dong eximed, "Isn��t that woman the one who lives across from us?"

    Sun Chan stretched her neck to look, at the guardhouse, a girl in a ck padded jacket was waiting to see someone. Wasn��t it Su Miao?

    Su Miao had a pretty determined personality; she hade several times in the past few days, staying in a hostel, barely eating or sleeping, determined to solve Gu Junming��s work issue.

    Not only that, but the most crucial thing was to involve him; otherwise, if her aunt��s family��s matters were exposed, her reputation wouldn��t be good, making marriage difficult.

    As for whether Gu Junming would be angry, well, after marriage, she could coax him. In their generation, marriage was for life.

    The moment Sun Chan saw Su Miao, she immediately understood what she was trying to do and said calmly, "She��s here to see my boyfriend."

    "What did you say?" Han Dong looked at her in surprise.

    "She��s from the same vige as my boyfriend and was pestering himst time. I have no idea what she is up to this time."

    "Really shameless. No wonder such things happen!"

    Sun Chan curiously asked what happened, but Han Dong didn��t say anything, just parked the car.

    Meanwhile, Gu Junming had already quickly walked out from the barracks. He heard a young girl was looking for him and thought it was Sun Chan, so he was very happy.

    He was exhausted in the disaster area, but unlike before, he didn��t just fall asleep as soon as his head hit the pillow. This time, he thought about Sun Chan for a long time, with all the fruits, food, and warm socks she brought. Who wouldn��t be envious? His longing for Sun Chan was bing more urgent.

    He expected to finally see his beloved, but who knew at the gate, he saw Su Miao��s smiling face, and his expression immediately turned sour.

    Su Miao pretended not to see it, gathering her emotions, and started to cry.

    But just then, Han Dong called out, "Big brother! Sun Chan, this is my big brother."

    Sun Chan eximed, "You said he��s your big brother?"

    "Yeah, why? You know him?"

    Sun Chan��s face turned red, nodded, and smiled.

    Han Dong immediately understood, damn, the person she��s dating is my big brother! And to think he never mentioned his brother��s name before! This is awkward, from now on I��ll have to call her sister-inw.

    Gu Junming, hearing this, looked over and immediately smiled, but it wasn��t at Han Dong, it was at Sun Chan standing behind him.

    Ignoring Su Miao, he quickly ran over and held Sun Chan��s hand, "You��re here?"

    Sun Chan nodded, embarrassedly withdrawing her hand, "I came with Han Dong to see you."

    "You know each other?"

    "It��s a real coincidence!" Han Dong chuckled, "The three of us all know each other but didn��t realize it!"

    After exining everything, Gu Junming also found it quite coincidental.

    Su Miao, standing behind them, was like having a bucket of cold water poured over her, standing there dumbfounded.

    Never in her wildest dreams did she think she��de all this way, hoping for sanctuary and amodation, only to be disrupted by Sun Chan!

    But since it hade to this, she couldn��t just be sent away, right? So she thick-skinnedly approached them.

    "What a coincidence, you��re here too, Sun Chan." She said with a smile.

    Sun Chan looked at her calmly, "What do you want with my boyfriend?"

    Su Miao nced at Gu Junming and bit her lip in grievance.

    Gu Junming was puzzled too, "Yeah, what do you want? I heard you��vee looking for me several times."

 Chapter 126 Thick-Skinned

    <h4>Chapter 126: Chapter 126 Thick-Skinned</h4><h4></h4>

    Su Miao was furious in her heart, what��s so good about this woman? I��m not bad-looking either, why am I not as good as her! Is something wrong with Gu Junming��s eyesight? Why choose her over me!

    For a moment, everyone was speechless. Gu Junming was calm, but Han Dong was getting a bit annoyed.

    "I say, do you have anything to say or not? If not, we��re leaving. You know how hard it is for a couple to meet, don��t you? You��re dawdling here, wasting time!"

    Su Miao gritted her teeth, tears streaming down, and rushed over: "Brother Gu, please help me. I can��t go back to my aunt��s house. I��m really miserable!"

    Seeing hering over, Gu Junming instinctively dodged to the side. Su Miao slipped and almost fell to the ground, but luckily Sun Chan and Han Dong each held her arm, while Gu Junming didn��t even give her a nce.

    He is a rather decent person, but he��s not a fool. Su Miao leveraged her past favor of saving his sister��s son to follow him into the city wanting a job and care, definitely not a kind-hearted woman, so he doesn��t like her and certainly won��t let her get close to him.

    Su Miao felt even more aggrieved, tears welling up in her eyes: "Are you going to treat me like this?"

    "Su Miao, what exactly is the matter? Please say it directly. I just got back from the disaster area, and I��m very tired. I want to have a good rest. If it��s a family conflict, I can��t interfere." Gu Junming said.

    Su Miao��s heart was burning hot. She couldn��t cry about what her aunt and uncle did in front of two other people! But if she didn��t say, would Gu Junming think she��s just causing trouble?

    She bit her lip and cried: "I��m really wronged! My aunt and uncle bully me, and now I don��t know what to do. I don��t ask for much, just hoping your station can arrange a ce for me to live. After all, you said you would arrange work for me."

    Gu Junming said: "How could my station let just anyone in? There are many important equipment here, all very confidential, can��t be leaked. For your job, I��ve already contacted it for you, go tomorrow, it��s at the dining hall of the government office, the���� is still����, and there��s a dormitory for singles."

    Upon hearing this, Su Miao felt very conflicted. Having a job is a good thing, but she does nothing at home, can she do it well? And it��s only a temporary job that can��t be made permanent; sooner orter she��ll have to go back to the vige, and she can��t live with Gu Junming. Wouldn��t it be a waste of effort?

    She thought for a moment and bit her lip, saying: "Brother, this job, I can��t do it. Is there any other work? Is there anything at your unit? I can do anything..."

    "The troop doesn��t need people." Gu Junming frowned: "I��m not someone with connections everywhere. You helped my sister back then, so I asked someone to find you a job. When I mentioned the canteen job, you didn��t object. Now we��ve found it for you, and you say you can��t do it?"

    Gu Junming thought to himself, I can ask people to arrange a good job, but you also need to have education and ability. With nothing, only wanting an easy life, it��s impossible.

    "Then can I stay with you temporarily, just tell others I��m your sister..."

    Han Dong sneered: "You��re really dreaming. Why should my brother arrange a ce for you? My future sister-inw hasn��t asked anything from my brother, yet you, an outsider, feel quitefortable making all these demands!"

    Gu Junming nced at Sun Chan, thinking, she really never thought of getting anything from me, just wants to be good to me. What are these other women!

    Su Miao felt embarrassed by Han Dong��s words: "I��m from the same vige as Brother Gu, what��s wrong with helping each other? Don��t look down on me for being from the vige."

    Han Dong sneered: "If you do things that attract disdain, don��t me others for looking down on you! Sun Chan is from the vige, why do I like her? How did you get kicked out, you think I don��t know? We��re neighbors after all!"

    Su Miao was shocked, this thing can��t be known to Gu Junming!

    She looked at Gu Junming crying: "Why does this person keep targeting me, I haven��t offended him at all! Please help me, Brother Gu, I came to the city alone, you are the only rtive I can rely on. Brother, my uncle always bullies me, my aunt doesn��t ept me. I saved Kangkang, you can��t just ignore me..."

    If it weren��t for Sun Chan and Han Dong being there, Su Miao would have wanted to throw herself into Gu Junming��s arms to pour out her grievances.

    Sun Chan frowned as she looked at her, is this moral coercion?

    Sun Chan said: "There were earthquakes in several nearby cities, you know that, so many things waiting to be done. Gu Junming is so busy now, how could he possibly pay attention to you? Everything that could be done has been done, what exactly do you want? Unless just because you saved someone, you want to be tied to my boyfriend for life?"

    Su Miao suddenly red up: "This is between me and Brother Gu. What are you meddling in? Why are you, this little bitch, so unnecessary? If it weren��t for you seducing Gu Junming, he��d be mine already!"

    Sun Chan said: "When did Gu Junming be your brother? Han Dong is his real brother. Don��t randomly attach kinship."

    "I helped him, how can you be so ungrateful!"

    "Because you helped Kangkang, he brought you out and arranged a job. Otherwise, do you think there are so many people in the vige, why care for you just because you��re from the same ce? Many people from the vige know Gu Junming. If everyone like youes, wouldn��t it be chaos? Then Gu Junming wouldn��t do anything else, just arranging jobs for vigers. Don��t push it too far." Sun Chan said coldly, looking at her.

    Han Dong quickly said: "Thick-skinned indeed! I��ll just say it openly to Brother and Sister-inw. This Su Miao fought for favor with her aunt, tried to please her uncle, don��t know what antics, couldn��t win against her aunt, got kicked out, and now came to find you. If her character goes wrong, wouldn��t it tarnish Brother��s reputation?"

    Once these words came out, Gu Junming immediately shouted: "What are you saying? Don��t speak recklessly!"

    Han Dong snorted, stopped talking. If this got out, wouldn��t a girl��s reputation be ruined?

    Su Miao cried even harder: "It��s not true, they��re bullying me... Brother, you speak for me, I really can��t live at their house!"

    Gu Junming said: "I don��t have a better solution now. Either I give you money, and you go back to the vige, or you go to the canteen. I can��t keep bending rules for you, I��m just a soldier."

    Han Dong said from the side: "If you��re always relying on others for help, better hurry back to the vige, don��te to the city, not everyone can establish themselves in the city."

    Su Miao almost died from anger.

 Chapter 127: Su Miao Was Furious

    <h4>Chapter 127: Chapter 127: Su Miao Was Furious</h4><h4></h4>

    Su Miao thought Gu Junming was so kind, how could he possibly ignore her? It must be these two who are causing trouble! That damned Sun Chan, and that mysterious Han Dong, she��d rather not even look at them, and went straight to Gu Junming. She hugged his shoulder and started crying nonstop.

    "Brother! I��m having such a hard time right now, and they��re treating me like this. You can��t abandon me! I came out of the vige, and if I go back like this, wouldn��t I lose all my face? Who would marry me then? You have to help me think of a solution!"

    Gu Junming gently pulled Su Miao away, looking at her sternly: "I��ve made myself very clear with you; I can only help you get a job in a cafeteria, but beyond that, I��m helpless."

    Su Miao bit her lip and looked hatefully at Sun Chan behind her: "It��s all your fault! If it weren��t for you, I wouldn��t be like this. Are you even fit to be a military wife, so vile and selfish, always inciting my brother to treat me poorly!"

    Sun Chan had been enduring for a while, but now that the insults reached her, she coldly sneered: "How am I selfish and vile? You��ve been bothering my boyfriend repeatedly, did I say anything? Wanting a good job, a ce to stay, wanting him to take care of you, aren��t you a bit too excessive? You say you��re afraid of losing face if you go back to the vige directly. Do you really think pestering Gu Junming every day helps your reputation? Or perhaps your true intention isn��t what it appears; you just want to marry Gu Junming? Fine, as long as Gu Junming says a word, I��ll make it happen for you, so you can stop insulting me behind my back!"

    Even Gu Junming and Han Dong had never seen Sun Chan this fierce before, they were all stunned, and Su Miao was grinding her teeth in hatred; she couldn��t possibly say she just wanted to marry Gu Junming!

    Su Miao angrily said: "Sun Chan, you mayck education, but you can learn. But casually insulting people like this isn��t right. My rtionship with Gu Junming is pure, how could you..."

    "Shut up! How much do you know? Just because you��ve read a few more books, does that give you the right to seduce my boyfriend?" Sun Chan interrupted her, looking toward Gu Junming: "You decide for yourself, whether you want her or listen to me. If you continue to have unclear ties with her, I��m breaking up with you!"

    "You��re too much, Sun Chan. Why do you force brother to treat me like this, we��re from the same vige?" She cried.

    Gu Junming said: "Being from the same vige doesn��t mean I have to manage all your affairs." He held Sun Chan��s hand. Sun Chan shook it off, but was quickly held by Gu again.

    Gu Junming said: "When did I say anything to her, don��t be angry."

    Sun Chan looked toward Su Miao, her eyes were red, she couldn��t speak.

    Sun Chan said: "My boyfriend is mine, no one can take him away. If you dare to bother him again, I won��t let it go. Anyway, I haven��t studied much, but I��m ready to do a few things that are uncultured and without quality!"

    Su Miao thought to herself, surely all this gentleness and kindness is just a facade? Yet Gu Junming saw her true colors and wasn��t angry; instead, he smiled warmly at Sun Chan. Gu Junming thought to himself, my wife��s angry words are quite charming too.

    Su Miao��s fingernails were about to break, she was simply infuriated!

    Han Dong looked towards Su Miao: "Not leaving yet? Afraid they won��t split? If you stay, you��ll also lose face; why bother?"

    Su Miao bit her lip until it bled, feeling utterly unwilling in her heart, yet still unwilling to leave just like that. Why should I, who came to the city, be bullied by everyone? Aunt, uncle, neighbor, Gu Junming��s partner, all bully me?

    She felt really unwilling, thinking to herself, I refuse to be bullied by you all my life, I��ll put you all underfoot sooner orter.

    Thinking of this, Su Miao said: "Alright, Brother Gu, I��ll ept your kindness and go to the agency cafeteria. Alone in the city, there are always issues I can��t resolve by myself. For Kangkang��s sake, you can��t ignore me either."

    Sun Chan raised an eyebrow, in just that brief moment, this girl had changed several forms of address for Gu Junming.

    Gu Junming suppressed his inner dislike: "I��ve always been busy; sometimes I can��t help even if I want to. I��ll call backter. You can start working tomorrow. This matter is also to repay you for saving Kangkang originally."

    In other words, I won��t help you in the future.

    Su Miao just pretended not to understand, smiled and nodded at Gu Junming: "I know you��re not a heartless person. I��ll leave first," she turned around looking aggrieved.

    Han Dong sneered: "That woman carries heavy thoughts, Brother, be cautious. Don��t fall into a trap one day and get entangled for life."

    "What are you talking about?"

    "I��m quite experienced with women. Oh well, forget it, let��s not talk about this." Han Dong quickly retracted his words, thinking, why am I saying this in front of these two?

    Gu Junming shot him a re and said to Sun Chan: "I have another task tomorrow, I took the afternoon off, let��s go eat."

    Sun Chan, disrupted by Su Miao��s arrival, was rather upset, but thinking Gu Junming was going to be busy again, not knowing when they��d meet next, how could they waste time, so she nodded in agreement.

    Han Dong thought for a while and decided to stay as a third wheel, otherwise, how would she get back to the city herself; driving, she��d have to walk.

    The three of them went to a nearby small restaurant, since they all had simr tastes, ordering wasn��t a problem.

    Gu Junming kept picking food for Sun Chan, afraid she wouldn��t eat well, and Sun Chan also put all the meat in Gu Junming��s bowl.

    Han Dong ate boisterously, was their showing off affection necessary in front of me?

    Gu Junming said: "How��s your business?"

    Sun Chan smiled: "Sister Guihua rented me a counter on the first floor; I��m selling fruits there. Don��t worry, everything is smooth now."

    "That��s good, once I��m done, it��ll be the New Year, on the thirtieth, I��ll have New Year��s Eve dinner at the Gu Family��s, and on the first day, we��ll go back together. Mom and Dad will be happy to see you." Gu Junming thought, Sun Chan has no family, her only foster mother and sister are like that, what��s worth returning for? Better if I take her home for the New Year, let her experience the warmth of family.

    Sun Chan��s heart filled with warmth, nodding, she said: "Sure, I��ll go back with you."

    Han Dong said: "I��ll go back with you too. I haven��t been to the vige yet. Didn��t you say your parents�� cooking is tasty?"

    Gu Junming nced at him: "You better forget it. When you get married, I��ll bring you back."

    "What does that have to do with marrying?"

    "There are too many young women and wives in the vige, I��m afraid you won��t be able to resist making mistakes again. My dad isn��t just mildly strict, you can try it if you don��t believe. Hardly likely, but during the New Year, you might just get your leg broken." Gu Junming said calmly.

 Chapter 128: Sun Lijuan’s Trouble

    <h4>Chapter 128: Chapter 128: Sun Lijuan��s Trouble</h4><h4></h4>

    Sun Chan couldn��t help butugh, and Han Dong anxiously defended himself: "I��ve already changed, why don��t you believe me?"

    But Gu Junming didn��t listen at all and just kept serving Sun Chan food. This guy could never stop flirting with young girls in this lifetime.

    While Han Dong was in the restroom, Gu Junming said to Sun Chan: "Don��t worry, I know my limits. I won��t get ambiguous with any woman."

    Sun Chan nodded: "I believe you, it��s just that you��re too nice and a lot of people like you."

    Gu Junming chuckled lightly: "I��ve told you, they don��t like me, they like the things I can bring them. If I were a farmer, would you still follow me? They would only scorn me. Enough about that, let me see your ID card."

    Sun Chan was puzzled but took it out and showed it to him, and Gu Junming nced at it before handing it back.

    "What��s up?" Sun Sunchan asked curiously.

    "Nothing," Gu Junming said. "After the New Year, you��ll be eighteen. Just two more years and I can marry you. I��m a bit impatient to bring you home."

    Sun Chan didn��t expect Gu Junming to say something like that, and her face instantly turned red.

    Gu Junming held her hand: "Take good care of yourself; I will treat you well for the rest of my life."

    Sun Chan made a sound of agreement and gently withdrew her hand, feeling it wasn��t appropriate with so many people watching.

    Gu Junming also felt a bit embarrassed andughed as he served her more food.

    Sun Chan stirred the rice in her bowl: "Isn��t the disaster area still very dangerous?"

    "Not dangerous. The aftershocks have basically stopped, just some reconstruction work left. Wrapping it up." There were actually still dangers, but he wouldn��t tell Sun Chan, not wanting to worry her.

    Sun Chan remained uneasy: "Please be very careful, don��t go under those copsed structures. The roads are slippery with snow, be watchful when walking. How��s the food? Should I get you some more warm socks?"

    Gu Junming hurriedly said: "No need, everything��s fine, and I can still wear the ones you gave me. I��ll be back in a few days. Wait for me."

    "Mm." Sun Chan smiled and nodded.

    They gazed at each other lovingly, and Han Dong had actually returned long ago. Seeing the two of them together, he felt a pang of jealousy, hesitated to interrupt, then smiled, turned, and went to pay the bill, supporting them. It was really quite nice this way; after all, I never counted as much. As long as that young girl can always be this happy, that��s enough.

    Sun Chan and Gu Junming were ready to leave after eating. Gu Junming saw her to the car and instructed Han Dong to take good care of his girlfriend before leaving.

    Han Dong smiled and promised: "Don��t worry, no one will bully her. Who would dare to bully the Brigade Captain Gu��s girlfriend? If they disobey, I��ll deal with them."

    "Stop talking nonsense, and be careful when doing business. Don��t let anyone deceive you."

    Han Dong chuckled: "It��s good enough if I��m not the one deceiving others, who��s going to cheat me?"

    Gu Junming gave a few more reminders, then waved goodbye to them before turning around to leave as the car drove away.

    As he reached the camp entrance, he remembered something.

    Bai Fann was about to marry Wang Hu, and he was worried he might not make it back in time, considering asking Han Dong to send a red envelope, but he forgot. Oh well, his father would definitely go, or he could give one to Wang Hu when he sees him. He wasn��t nning to attend the wedding.

    Sun Chan sat in Han Dong��s car, watching the snowkes fall outside, and suddenly thought of Zhao Xiuxia. Whenever it snowed, she would often send Sun Chan out to collect firewood, gone all day.

    Zhao Xiuxia would stay home with her daughter, roasting sweet potatoes and corn, sometimes frying melon seeds and peanuts.

    They might be enjoying good food now. In her previous life, Sun Chan would feel sad thinking about this��why couldn��t they be a bit nicer to her? Even if they weren��t her biological family, they��d lived together for so many years. But now, she didn��t care at all. Because someone was taking care of her now, she was no longer alone.

    That pang of sadness and painsted only a moment, quickly reced by calmness.

    Han Dong nced at her side profile, a faint smile gracing her lips, dimples forming on her cheeks, probably thinking of Gu Junming.

    He dropped Sun Chan off at home, then drove to see another girl. Extremely beautiful and charming, the kind of girl Han Dong��s parents disliked the most.

    When the girl saw Han Dong, she was startled, then kicked him: "I thought you were dead! Howe you thought of me, get lost!"

    Han Dong picked her up in his arms and carried her inside: "Well, here I am."

    "Go die, I��m getting married next month... sob sob..."

    Han Dong didn��t let go, his hands roving more boldly, and soon the door was shut.

    When everything settled down, Han Dong looked at the woman sleeping beside him, massaged his forehead, feeling this bad habit was never changing. He hadn��t even nned on doing this today; maybe it was because of being provoked by those two. Fortunately, this woman felt the same way, just ying around. Another one like Lin Hongmei, who demanded marriage after one night, would be hard to bear.

    He thought of Sun Chan again, then shook his head quickly, trying not to let himself think.

    While he was thinking of Sun Chan, Zhao Xiuxia and Sun Lijuan in the vige were both gritting their teeth thinking about Sun Chan as well.

    Now, things weren��t going too well for those two.

    Since Sun Lijuan was messed with by Zhou Jinzhust time, she��d stayed in bed for a few days before going back to school. She felt it was shameful and thought to keep it secret. If no one talked, what could happen?

    Zhou Jinzhu didn��t care either; after what happened, they��d even greet each other in the vige. He��d even asked Zhao Xiuxia to find a well-behaved pretty girl nearby. He had even asked Sun Lijuan to introduce her ssmates to him, which infuriated Zhao Xiuxia to the point of cursing him out and driving him away.

    "Are you just a beast? Don��t you know what you��ve done? Just for the sake of appearances, you even troubled us!"

    Sun Lijuan was filled with fury too, what a beast! But she couldn��t fall out too badly with Zhou Jinzhu, or else, how would she live in the vige if this got out? If she weren��t worried about marrying into a good family, she��d have reported him and had him executed!

    Originally, she thought she could swallow her pride and let it go, nning to wait until graduation next year, when Gu Junming��s promises would be fulfilled, then deal with it.

    Unexpectedly, her period never came, though she wasn��t regr anyway, so she didn��t think much of it. But just now, she asked Zhao Xiuxia for a roasted sweet potato, and as soon as she took a bite, her stomach churned, and she dashed to the bathroom, vomiting heavily.

    Zhao Xiuxia, anxious, grabbed her: "What��s wrong? Did you catch a cold?"

    Sun Lijuan returned to her room with a pale face, unsteady on her feet. She had a vague sense something was wrong. Her chest felt swollen, and she��d been having frequent stomach issuestely.

    "Tell me what��s going on, please. Don��t scare your mom!" Zhao Xiuxia tried to take her arm.

 Chapter 129: What About the Child

    <h4>Chapter 129: Chapter 129: What About the Child</h4><h4></h4>

    Sun Lijuan irritably pushed Zhao Xiuxia��s shoulder: "Don��t touch me right now!"

    Zhao Xiuxia was pushed by her daughter and stumbled, nearly sitting on the ground, but at this moment, she couldn��t care less. She grabbed Sun Lijuan��s hand urgently and said, "Girl, tell me, what exactly is going on? You have to speak, how else can I help you?"

    "I think I��m pregnant." Sun Lijuan said calmly, her fingernails digging deep into her flesh.

    Zhao Xiuxia��s mind buzzed, almost causing her to sit on the ground: "How did this happen? No way, it��s impossible..."

    It was just once with Zhou Jinzhu, how could it be such a coincidence? Damn creature, and that little bitch Sun Chan! If she had obediently married Zhou Jinzhu, would any of this have happened?

    "Why is it impossible?" Sun Lijuan said each word slowly and then red fiercely at her mother, "What should I do, Mom? You tell me, what should I do? It was your stupid idea to sell her off, could I be this unlucky otherwise?"

    Zhao Xiuxia sat on the side, patting her thighs with both hands, tears streaming down: "What should we do? My poor child, how could you get pregnant? Damn Sun Chan, she��s to me for all of this. What will our Juan��er do in the future?" Now she felt like she could tear Sun Chan into pieces!

    "Enough." Sun Lijuan couldn��t stand to see her mother just crying without a n, and stood up irritably: "Instead of crying, why not think about what to do!"

    "What else can we do? Of course, we can��t keep it."

    The two braved the snow that day to go to the city and find a doctor for an examination. They had it all figured out: once they confirmed the pregnancy, they would say it was an extra birth. Anyway, regtions were strict, they could just pull some strings, pay some money, and have the procedure done. But unexpectedly, after an examination, the doctor said Sun Lijuan��s body was extremely fragile. If this pregnancy was terminated, she might not be able to have children in the future.

    "You really have to think it over. If there really is a miscarriage, you must inform the husband first."

    The mother and daughter nearly fainted together. Sun Lijuan didn��t even know how she managed to get out of the hospital. A true countryside girl, she understood the importance of offspring; who would marry a woman who couldn��t have children? No matter how beautiful you are, it wouldn��t matter.

    They didn��t speak a word along the way, and when they reached the vige, Zhao Xiuxia cursed Zhou Jinzhu once more and wiped her tears.

    "I��ll go and talk to the Zhou Family." She said as she walked out.

    Sun Lijuan hurriedly grabbed her: "Where are you going?"

    Zhao Xiuxia looked back at her, "Just listen to me, dear girl. I know you are unwilling right now, but you are already pregnant and can��t abort this child. You have no choice but to marry him. Do you expect someone else to marry you? We��ll just demand more dowry money then! We live in the same vige, I promise no one will bully you."

    Sun Lijuan sneered coldly: "I would rather die than return home for that beast!"

    "But this child of yours..."

    "I will find a father for it myself!" Sun Lijuan clenched her fists.

    She kept thinking of thest time she saw Gu Junming, tall, handsome, and with prospects. If she could frame him with this child, it would be perfect. Now the only thing to do was to find a chance to spend a night alone with him. Just one night, and she could cling onto him. As for the timing discrepancies, she could just im it was a premature birth.

    Sun Lijuan said, "I want to marry Gu Junming."

    Zhao Xiuxia��s mouth gaped open, trying to speak several times without any wordsing out, her heart churning. Had this girl gone mad? Could he even want her?

    "Juan��er! If you didn��t have this child, I would force that bitch Sun Chan to give him to you even if it killed me. But now, with your situation... I��m afraid it won��t work."

    "It has to be Gu Junming." Sun Lijuan gritted her teeth, "His is a military marriage, once you��re married, it��s not easy to get divorced. Besides, he won��t be by my side all the time. For the birthdate, just make up a lie. There won��t be any issues. Even if something seems off in the future, as long as there��s no solid evidence, it won��t matter."

    "But you doing this..."

    "We��re going to X City, we need to find that bitch first. Once we find her, we can find Gu Junming. I just need one opportunity. Mom, you have to help me!" Sun Lijuan grabbed her mother��s wrist earnestly, looking at her intensely.

    Zhao Xiuxia, already heartbroken for her daughter and feeling indignant that her daughter wasn��t living as well as Sun Chan, agreed without much hesitation.

    The two packed up and went to find Sun Chan. Sun Lijuan thought along the way, "I��m already almost four months along, it has to be soon. Otherwise, I��ll really show!"

    The mother and daughter rushed anxiously towards Sun Chan, plotting along the way.

    Sun Chan had already settled into the shop Guihua provided, which wasn��trge but neatly arranged with various fruit disyed inside. A small stove was set up inside, making it warm and tidy.

    Han Dong had sent over several baskets of fruit again, and Sun Chan sorted through them one by one. Guihua and Yang Liu were helping too. The women chatted andughed, quite cheerful.

    Guihua said, "My hotel will open before the New Year, you all have toe and support us! Bring Gu Junming too."

    "No problem," Sun Chan replied with a smile, "He said he��lle back then."

    "Aren��t you worried he��s not around you all the time?" Guihua curiously asked.

    Sun Chan smiled and shook her head, picking outrge apples: "What should I worry about? They��re all colleagues."

    "There are also beautiful women among colleagues andrades. What if he��s charmed away by someone?" Guihua said.

    Yang Liu giggled, "Yeah, now the female soldiers�� uniforms look so nice, they seem so spirited."

    "He won��t." Sun Chan replied confidently. If he could be with a female soldier, it would have happened already. Why wait until now? Thinking of his resolute dedication reassured Sun Chan.

    Guihua and Yang Liu exchanged a nce, understanding their close rtionship.

    Sun Chan sorted the fruits by appearance and size; the ones that didn��t look good were taken home to make fruit cans and sold off. Many people catching trains would buy them.

    Guihua and Yang Liu were busy preparing for the hotel��s opening, and Sun Chan��s stall was opening with the hotel, so aside from pushing a cart to sell fruit for a few hours each day, she would go to help.

    One day when Sun Chan was going to the hotel, she happened to run into Bai Fann.

    Bai Fann was with Wang Hu, and they wereing from the street, holding some peanuts and melon seeds and such. It looked like they were preparing for a wedding.

    Bai Fann saw Sun Chan and felt displeased. This woman constantly reminded her of her failures; it was truly unbearable.

    Wanting to avoid her, Wang Hu had already seen her and walked over with a smile, "Are you busy?"

    Recalling Bai Fann��s earlier troubles, Sun Chan found it hard to smile, and just slightly nodded her head.

 Chapter 130: Argument

    <h4>Chapter 130: Chapter 130: Argument</h4><h4></h4>

    This is all because of Wang Hu, otherwise, Bai Fann wouldn��t be paid any mind at all.

    "You��ve returned. Gu Junming, is heing back too?" Sun Chan said with a smile.

    Bai Fann bit her lip, as if she was worthy of knowing about Gu Junming��s affairs! Who let Gu Junming ept such a woman as his partner.

    Wang Hu grunted, "He should being soon."

    He wasn��t very happy. Originally, he intended to build up political achievements, but he was unexpectedly called back by the leadership halfway, saying that now he��s getting married, the remaining work isn��t that crucial, so he was allowed to return.

    Wang Hu requested several times, saying work was a priority, and the people upstairs said, "Don��t make it difficult for me. It was your partner��s grandfather who spoke up, and indeed, your wife is a martyr��s descendant, which isn��t easy, so just focus on preparing for the wedding."

    Wang Hu felt a sudden surge of anger, absolutely absurd! Bai Chuan could be so muddled? Upon returning and asking, he learned that it was Bai Fann who pretended to be his grandfather and wrote a letter to the people upstairs.

    As it turned out, Bai Fann, with the wedding approaching, had nothing arranged, and Wang Hu��s parents were both officials, not caring about anything, believing that just giving money was sufficient. Bai Fann had no parents, and all these things had to be handled by herself, which caused a lot of anxiety, and she could only call people back, anyway, it was all wrap-up work, it couldn��t be indispensable, right?

    Wang Hu was boiling with rage and was about to call Bai Fann. More harm than good!

    But his parents persuaded him, "After all, it��s a once-in-a-lifetime event, why make things bad with the bride. It��s not easy being a military wife. Just let it go this time, when there��s a chanceter, persuade her properly. Don��t start amotion before marriage."

    Only then did Wang Hu hold back, but there he was, swallowing his anger, and upon hearing Sun Chan��s words, he got even angrier, his face turning dark. The likelihood of getting that position this time appeared slim, he was probably the one being brushed off first.

    Bai Fann didn��t notice Wang Hu��s mood, after all, his expressions were the same throughout the year.

    She smiled at Sun Chan, "Sister Sun is really getting prettier. Ever since you��ve been with Gu Junming, your attire, and aura are different from back when you were a caregiver. Truly found a good partner."

    That was indeed true. Sun Chan wore a light blue cotton jacket, a white long scarf, and ck leather shoes, all gifts from Guihua, which made her look good no matter how she dressed. It was a pleasing sight.

    She told Sun Chan, "A woman must love herself, dress nicely, while you��re young and pretty, wear nice clothes, take care of yourself, don��t always look worn out. I was foolish back then, not dressing well, and what happened? My husband was snatched by a sly fox! Later, buying clothes was toote, the best years had passed, so you can��t follow my old path."

    Now when Sun Chan went out, she felt quite confident.

    But Bai Fann��s words were clearly notpliments, just stirring trouble.

    Sun Chan coldly stared at Bai Fann, "So what are you trying to say, that I love vanity, cling to status, and don��t know how to save money? Only city folks like you can dress well, so should I always remain a vige girl? I haven��t spent your money on clothes, why meddle in my affairs?"

    Once these words were said, Wang Hu frowned, this girl��s temper was really fierce. Remembering what had been said at Gu Family��s ce, it certainly must have been hard for Gu Zishan with this youngdy too.

    Bai Fann looked at Sun Chan in shock, instinctively raised a hand to hit, but thinking of her fianc�� beside her, she held back, "Is that necessary? I didn��t say anything, did I? Haven��t you worked as a caregiver? Can��t people mention it? Can you be an adequate military wife now?"

    Sun Chan replied, "I don��t know if I can do it well, but I guarantee you won��t do it well, stirring trouble, gossiping, those are the worst traits. Your husband works in ideology, I think you should learn well. Don��t be like the vige women, making a fool of yourself!"

    Bai Fann was furious, this woman dared to speak to me like that!

    "What did you say? Say it again!"

    However, Sun Chan didn��t even nce at Bai Fann, and said to Wang Hu, "I have something to do, I��ll be leaving now."

    "Alright, be careful on your way, it��s slippery." Wang Hu couldn��t help but remind Sun Chan, seeing the shoes she wore, afraid she might trip. But after saying it, Wang Hu felt shocked and awkward, since when did he say such a thing, paying attention to what a woman wore! It was purely unconscious remarks. Probably subconsciously, he thought about when Bai Fann embarrassed her earlier at the Gu Family��s ce, trying to make it up now.

    Sun Chan just gave him a smile without understanding him, and walked away. Ignoring Sun Chan.

    And Bai Fann was utterly stunned,pletely unresponsive, what was the matter, her husband has always been indifferent, yet he showed concern for someone else��s shoes, and what about me? Have you ever cared about me?

    Wang Hu said, "Alright, let��s head back now. My mom said she��ll buy the bed sheets and covers, next we just need to check the restaurant��s menu, we��ll go after lunch."

    "Wang Hu," Bai Fann said through gritted teeth, "You like Sun Chan?"

    Wang Hu deeply furrowed his brow, "What are you talking about! Since when did I like Sun Chan?"

    "When have you ever cared about me? Whether I wear more or less, have you ever managed anything about me? Now you dare to mind someone else��s partner, are you doing it deliberately?" Bai Fann was extremely angry.

    Just now she was retorted by Sun Chan, Wang Hu remained silent, yet was concerned about others, what kind of business is this!

    Actually, Wang Hu hadn��t been paying much attention to the conversation between the two girls, his thoughts were upied with the position matter.

    Seeing Bai Fann in this state, Wang Hu found it irrational, "It��s not a big deal, just a polite remark, why are you so angry?"

    "Why am I angry? Do you have a heart, or is itpletely not with me?" Bai Fann was also filled with anger at this stage. Everything had to be managed by her alone, her fianc�� was like a cold mountain.

    Wang Hu kept silent, feeling she truly wasn��t cute at all. His mother had never been this hysterical.

    Bai Fann, seeing him like this, got even angrier and threw the items in her hand, "Forget it! You simply don��t understand emotions, better not get married, otherwise, I��d be left alone and get no careter!"

    She finished speaking and turned to leave.

    Wang Hu ncing at the items thrown on the ground thought for a moment, then turned and walked in another direction, ignoring it.

    He really didn��t understand why she suddenly went mad, clearly, he��d been amodating her a lot, even after being called back forcefully, didn��t me her, and now she was angry over such minor stuff, truly not what a good wife should do.

 Chapter 131 Hidden Dangers

    <h4>Chapter 131: Chapter 131 Hidden Dangers</h4><h4></h4>

    Bai Fann saw the things on the ground and opened her mouth wide. She was originally acting on impulse, thinking Wang Hu woulde over and persuade her, but who knew he would just leave like that without a care. She couldn��t help but start crying. What kind of situation is this? The person she��s about to marry can be so indifferent?

    Bai Fann shouted loudly at Wang Hu��s back, "Stop! Are you not going to marry me anymore?"

    Wang Hu had no response at all. Bai Fann gritted her teeth and continued, "... If you don��t want to marry, then let��s not. I won��t die without you, but don��t regret it! You selfish jerk!"

    Wang Hu paused for a moment but didn��t turn back and continued walking forward. Seeing that Wang Hu had no intention of realizing his mistake, Bai Fann followed angrily. She was both mad and frustrated; why didn��t he show any care for her?

    Meanwhile, the peanut candy on the ground was left unattended, eventually picked up by passersby.

    Bai Fann returned home crying. Seeing his granddaughter like this, Bai Chuan couldn��t help but feel agitated. What��s going on again? Ever since the decision to get married, arguments would break out every few days. Can things be okay after the marriage?

    Bai Chuan forced himself to be patient and went to Bai Fann��s room, only to find her throwing all the wedding clothes out of the closet onto the floor while crying. He frowned and said, "What��s wrong now?"

    Bai Fann cried, "I��m not getting married anymore; I can��t go through with this!"

    "Nonsense!" Bai Chuan shouted, "The invitations have already been sent out, and you think just saying you��re not marrying will settle it?"

    "But he doesn��t like me at all. He��s so cold, caring about others but not me!" She cried as she recounted her experience, "I really can��t stand Wang Hu anymore. He doesn��t care for me at all, less than a stranger would. How can I spend my life with him? He left me on the street, Grandpa. I��m really upset. Please don��t force me. Let��s call off the engagement!"

    Bai Chuan was burning with anger, but seeing the tears on his granddaughter��s face, he could only sigh after a while and waved his hand, "Forget it, maybe I��ve spoiled you too much, which led to this. You��re about to marry a soldier, to be a military wife. Do you think you can handle such responsibility with your temperament? You think marrying into the Wang Family is just for enjoyment? You have responsibilities. The whole Wang Family will depend on you to take care of your inws, husband, and raise children!"

    "Why should I do that? Aren��t there maids for that?"

    "What are you saying! How old are you, and you still don��t understand. No wonder Gu Junming doesn��t like you!"

    Bai Fann felt a wave of irritability and gritted her teeth, "What did you say! Are youparing me to that vige girl?! Do you know how shameless she is? First stealing Gu Junming, now flirting with Wang Hu. It��s outrageous!"

    Bai Chuan regretted his words after speaking and sighed, "You are much better than that vige girl, but sometimes you need to show vulnerability. Men have their pride, and they were deceived by that woman. Wang Hu is career-oriented; it��s not that he doesn��t care about you."

    Bai Fann started crying again. She felt unfortunate; why, despite her looks and family background, was she not as good as Sun Chan! Thinking about Wang Hu��s concern for Sun Chan just now made her grit her teeth in hatred. It wasn��t because she liked Wang Hu so much; the main issue was that Wang Hu had never shown any concern for her. What kind of sorcery did that woman use!

    "How about you call Wang Hu?"

    "Why should I be the first to call? I��m not calling!"

    Bai Chuan slightly frowned, seeing he couldn��t persuade her, he could only leave. After hesitating, he decided to call the Wang Family first.

    At this time, the atmosphere in the Wang Family was also very bad.

    Wang Hu went home and told his parents about not wanting to get married, which resulted in a scolding from the elders of the Wang Family.

    "Do you think this is child��s y? Marry when you want, separate when you want? Even if Bai Fann is immature, you are still in the wrong!" Mrs. Wang said angrily.

    Father Wang also said, "You must apologize immediately! Otherwise, everyone willugh at our family!"

    Mrs. Wang sighed, "Bai Fann is indeed a bit capricious, but she��s still a young girl. Is it right to leave her on the street like that? I know your personality very well; you��ve been distant with everyone since childhood, and it��s probably made others unhappy for a long time. This time it erupted."

    As they were talking, a call came from Bai Chuan, sincerely admitting fault, "I��ve already scolded her properly. Now she��s crying at home, embarrassed to apologize. I��m helpless, with parents gone early. Could you forgive us, has Wang Hu been angry? Lan said he hadn��t eaten and feels really awkward."

    "Oh no, it��s our family��s fault. We��ll have Wang Hu go to your home. In the evening, let here over for dinner. I��ve just borrowed a wedding dress for her; everyone wears such things nowadays." Mrs. Wangughed.

    Exchanging a few pleasantries, Mrs. Wang hung up and looked at Wang Hu, "Go and bring Bai Fann back. Don��t be so stubborn again, or you��ll embarrass your parents!"

    Wang Hu thought about it. Although he didn��t particrly like Bai Fann, he didn��t really dislike her either. Everyone��s anxious before the wedding, so anger is inevitable. Without saying much, he stood up and went out.

    Father Wang sighed, "I don��t even know if this kind of marriage will work out."

    "Don��t worry. Bai Fann seems nice to me, just a little temperamental. It��ll be fine over time," Mrs. Wang said. She and her husband had married after meeting just once and didn��t think emotions were that important.

    When Wang Hu arrived at the Bai Family, he patiently said a few words to Bai Fann.

    Bai Fann thought about it. With the wedding called off, where else could she find someone better? In the end, it was Wang Hu��s qualities that satisfied her.

    Bai Fann nodded, acquiescing.

    On the surface, the two reconciled, continuing preparations for the wedding. Although they stopped arguing, they didn��t talk unless absolutely necessary, making Bai Fann feel even more aggrieved.

    Wang Guihua received the invitation and felt extremely frustrated. Bai Fann was getting married, but what about her own son? He was still making a fuss over that widow, preferring to go to the earthquake zone instead ofing back.

    Her once obedient son had be rebellious like this, and she found that woman to be just an enchantress. It was outrageous!

    At this moment, Wang Guihua was truly worried, fearing that one day her son might submit a love report and then bring someone home to marry. What then?

    Gu Zishan was unreliable, and Gu Dongfang was indifferent; she had to take action herself.

    After waiting a few days, she went to find Yang Hongying again.

 Chapter 132: Grand Opening

    <h4>Chapter 132: Chapter 132: Grand Opening</h4><h4></h4>

    Today, Yang Hongying went to submit her discharge report. Her education level is rtively low, and her capabilities are poor. Initially, she stayed in the army because of her ex-husband. Now that she has reached the appropriate age, she thought it better to take the initiative to discharge herself rather than wait to be asked to leave.

    Just as she left the army, she saw Wang Guihua at the entrance. She couldn��t help but feel her legs go weak. After thest incident, Yang Hongying was even more afraid of Wang Guihua and didn��t dare to meet her eyes.

    Wang Guihua saw the delicate and charming Yang Hongying, and her anger boiled within. It was just this kind of vixen that lured her son. Think you can make me ept you? Dream on!

    Yang Hongying whispered, "Hello, Auntie."

    Wang Guihua sneered, "I can��t bear to be called Auntie by you. Your ex-husband was on good terms with my husband, he should call me ��Sister-inw��. You should just call me ��Sister-inw��."

    Yang Hongying��s face turned pale instantly as if she had been pped hard. Calling her ��Big Sister�� meant crossing generations!

    Wang Guihua continued, "I don��t want to talk about anything else with you. You are a good girl, but I don��t agree with you marrying my son. You��ve been married, even though you don��t have a son, you should understand a woman��s concern for her son. Do you think with your conditions you deserve my son?"

    Without caring that there were others passing by, she said coldly, "I don��t care what means you��ve used to seduce my son, I will never ept this, even if it kills me. You better give up. For my son, I am willing to do anything! You don��t need to try anymore. I won��t ept it unless I��m dead."

    Yang Hongying couldn��t help but shed tears, feeling heartbroken. She said nothing.

    Wang Guihua said, "That��s enough. You don��t need to be so pitiful. You look so good, your family isn��t bad, and you have a capable cousin. It shouldn��t be a problem for you to get married. If you stop seeing my son, I might think more highly of you. But if you��re shamelessly determined to enter our family, haha, just wait and see. I��m not someone easy to deal with!" She finished speaking and left.

    Yang Hongying wiped her tears. She was already exhausted because of this matter, and hearing Wang Guihua��s words made her even more determined to leave.

    Sun Chan had been waiting for news from Gu Junming these days, but unfortunately, there��s no way to contact him. She made a call once, only to hear that he��s not back yet, so Gu Junming��s situation is unknown. Feeling anxious but having no recourse, she decided to focus all her energy on helping prepare for the inn opening.

    Until the day of the Little New Year, Guihua��s inn opened. Guihua made such a big scene with several thousand firecrackers, many people came for the festivities, and both Sun Chan and Yang Liu were helping in the store.

    Han Dong had been out for a while, bringing in arge batch of fruits. With the New Year approaching, this purchase was quiterge. Traveling back and forth thousands of miles wore him out, and he caught a severe cold along the way, but still managed toe back to help in thest two days.

    Seeing Han Dong return despite his illness, Guihua was very moved, patting his shoulder, "Good brother, you should go home and rest. We can manage without you. I appreciate your gesture."

    "No need to be polite," Han Dong smiled, "I also want to share the joy. If you be sessful in the future, hopefully, you��ll help a brother out." He happened to see Sun Chan as he spoke.

    She was with Yang Liu putting up curtains in the room. The beige curtains looked very elegant, and the sunlight outside made her face look even better.

    Sun Chan was now cheerful and talkative, unlike the timid demeanor when she first left the vige. Who knows what she said to Yang Liu that made them bothugh.

    Seeing her blooming smile, Han Dong couldn��t help but show a smile himself.

    Guihuaughed, "Good words, okay, I��ll pull you up in the future. Help me out well!"

    Han Dong agreed, "Whatever you need help with, just let me know."

    "Go mop the floor then. Having a big businessman like you help me mop is an honor!" Guihuaughed slyly.

    "Alright, I��ll be the big boss helping you mop." Heughed, rolling up his sleeves.

    With the firecrackers finished, the inn was officially open.

    The ce wasn��trge, but the location was quite good and the price for amodation was not high, so they had guests on the opening day itself. Yang Liu and several hired staff were busy attending to the guests.

    In their haste, she bumped into Han Dong, who was carrying several tablemps, causing him to stagger. He quickly extended a hand to steady her.

    "Be careful, beautifuldy, these items are expensive; you won��t be able to pay for them if they break."

    Yang Liu blushed, smiled, and nodded, passing by him.

    Han Dong spent half the day busy before approaching Sun Chan. She was wiping the wainscoting with a rag.

    Han Dong asked, "Why isn��t my brother here? It��s almost New Year, yet he isn��t back?"

    Sun Chan smiled, "I guess he��ll be back in a couple of days." Thinking about Junming spending New Year��s Eve outside made her a bit worried, but she understood that it��s the duty of a soldier and there��s nothing to be done.

    Everyone was busy when an unexpected visitor arrived at the inn, Wang Dabao.

    They all nced at him and frowned. This guy clearly came with ill intentions.

    Wang Dabao was dressed in a yellow suit, a white tie, with a cotton overcoat. His hair was styled to stand upright, looking impressive but his face showed his roguish nature as he scanned the surroundings.

    "Who is he?" Yang Liu wondered.

    "Sister Guihua��s ex-husband." Sun Chan exined briefly, and everyone frowned.

    This guy obviously came to cause trouble.

    Guihua strode over, "Do you need something?"

    Wang Dabao sneered, "Of course I have something, our family��s opened an inn, how could I note to see it?"

    Guihua��s face turned ugly, "Our family? You have the cheek to say that! This inn was set up by me alone, what��s it got to do with you?"

    "When we divorced, you took all the valuable stuff from home without leaving me a penny. How could I agree to that? So, this inn has my share too! It��s only right to help out, isn��t it?"

    Wang Dabao finished speaking and sat by the door, clearly intending to stay put. Guihua was fuming and about to rush over to settle scores.

    Seeing the inn��s decent size, Wang Dabao was feeling pleased. Last time he went to the Gu Family to im rtions, but it happened they had something else going on, so nothing was discussed; they left instead, leaving him quite disappointed.

 Chapter 133: Drive Away

    <h4>Chapter 133: Chapter 133: Drive Away</h4><h4></h4>

    Later, Zhao Hong took me a few more times, but Old Man Gu clearly didn��t want to help. He would chat andugh, but when it came to serious matters, he wouldn��t respond.

    Thest time, Gu Dongfang happened to be looking for Yan Kai, and Wang Guihua simply didn��t let them into the courtyard. Of course, Wang Dabao didn��t know the backstory and thought the old man was ignoring them, so he cursed angrily and dumped Zhao Hong as soon as he got back.

    No matter how much Zhao Hong cried and pleaded, Wang Dabao didn��t look back. She was like a wilted flower, not particrly attractive, only knew how to spend his money, and couldn��t help him at all, so why keep her around?

    After breaking up with Zhao Hong, Wang Dabao started thinking about getting back with his ex-wife. After all, they had been married for years and had a son. Most importantly, she was great at business and making money.

    He thought that if he sincerely admitted his mistakes, it wouldn��t be hard to remarry her, and once he had money, he could find any beautiful woman he wanted.

    What he found out shocked him; his ex had opened a hotel! So he rushed over.

    Guihua pointed at the door, "Get out right now! We��re divorced. What I do is none of your business!"

    "Honey, you can��t say that. You threw me out with nothing, and now you have your business. Weren��t we married? What��s yours is mine, right?" Wang Dabao grinned as he reached for his ex-wife��s arm.

    Guihua was furious, pointing at his nose, yelling, "Shameless bastard! Do you not know how our family��s money was earned? The opportunities provided by my family were lent to me as capital, and you just enjoyed it. I made most of the business decisions. Thanks to you, didn��t you get the house in the city? Could you have earned a two or three million apartment on your own? Don��t be so shameless! I gave you a house for nothing, and wasn��t the money you spent on women ours too? I��ve never asked you for child support either!"

    In front of so many people, Wang Dabao felt embarrassed and muttered, "You��d better agree to give me half of the hotel, or else I won��t leave. I��ll cause trouble every day and make sure you can��t do business!"

    Hearing this, Guihua��s face turned green with anger, and she gritted her teeth, charging forward, "I��ll kill you!"

    Seeing a fight about to start, Sun Chan quickly stopped Guihua, "Big sister, don��t fight. It��s the first day of opening; if you make a scene, it won��t look good or be auspicious. Don��t stoop to his level!"

    "So what? Let this beast ruin my business?"

    "I��ll go talk to him." Sun Chan strode over.

    Seeing Sun Chan, Wang Dabao��s eyes squinted at her. This girl looked better every time he met her.

    Sun Chan had always been quite pretty, but when she first came from the vige, she was timid and introverted, with hair covering most of her face, wearing old-fashioned clothes that didn��t do her justice. Now, she had blossomed like a flower.

    Wang Dabao instantly forgot about the beating he receivedst time and stepped forward to speak.

    Before he could say anything, Sun Chan spoke, "I��ve been remembering the day you tried to molest me, behaving like a hooligan! If you don��t leave now, I��ll report you to the police station. I��ll have them capture and execute you! You know that being a hooligan isn��t a minor offense, right?"

    "What did you say..." Seeing her cold expression, he was dumbfounded and struck silent.

    "If you have any ability, make money yourself. If you don��t, then live a good life. Why must you rely on women? It��s really contemptible. When I first met you, I thought you had some decency, but now I see you��re truly shameless. If you don��t leave now, I��ll call the police!" Sun Chan said coldly.

    Han Dong also walked over, "Did this guy bully you? I��ll deal with him!" His eyes narrowed with a murderous look.

    Wang Dabao was already not very brave, and with Han Dong��s demeanor, he was startled and started backing away in fear.

    Yang Liu also came over at this time, "Since he was being a hooligan, go ahead and report him! Get him out so he doesn��t disrupt our business."

    "No, no, don��t call the police! I��m leaving, I��m leaving now!" Wang Dabao was so frightened he scrambled away.

    Guihua tried to hit him several times but was stopped.

    Sun Chan had no intention of blowing the whole thing up either. She certainly didn��t want Guihua��s son to have a father who went to jail, so it was just a scare tactic. After all, they weren��t heartless people.

    Once he was gone, everything quieted down.

    Guihua angrily pounded the table with her fist, "That shameless scoundrel! How was I so blind to marry him back then?"

    "Big sister! Today is a good day; why do this to yourself? Let��s happily do business. Look, we have so many customers." Sun Chan smiled, "Look, we��ve all been busy all day, when can we have some good food to celebrate?"

    "Alright, I get it. I��m on it. You��re pretty good with words." Guihua smiled as she nced at Sun Chan, who was now also fond of joking.

    That night, after they were finished with their work, theyid out a table in the hotel��s first-floor lobby, full of dishes they loved.

    After dinner, Han Dong was going to drive them back. Guihua wanted to return to her family since several brothers were busy and could note to help until the next day, so Han Dong drove Sun Chan and Yang Liu back to their house.

    Sun Chan got up very early in the morning, so she quickly fell asleep against the window. Along the way, Yang Liu and Han Dong chatted. Both were jovial and had a lively exchange. Sometimes, Han Dong nced out the window, and Yang Liu thought he was admiring the snowyndscape. But she didn��t know that what the window ss reflected was Sun Chan��s figure.

    Once home, Han Dong didn��t stop and went straight back.

    The two girls washed up quickly and went to sleep on the kang (a traditional heated bed).

    Inside,rge logs were burning, sent by Guihua��s family, making it very warm. Yang Liuy awake in bed, unable to sleep.

    Sun Chan asked curiously, "What��s wrong? Is it too hot on the kang?"

    "No," Yang Liu smiled sheepishly, "It��s just... I have something I want to ask you."

    "Go ahead, ask."

    "Han Dong... does he have a girlfriend?"

    Sun Chan was first stunned, thenughed, "You��ve taken a fancy to him, haven��t you?"

    Yang Liu murmured, "Yes. I think he��s quite nice. Can you help me find out what he thinks? If he doesn��t like me, I won��t cling on."

    Sun Chan quickly said, "Be a bit more confident; you��re so lovely. He��s bound to like you. I should have thought of it sooner. I��ll ask him for youter." She was confident that Han Dong, who hadn��t looked down on her back when she had nothing but a caregiver job, would surely appreciate Yang Liu as well.

 Chapter 134: Want to be a Matchmaker

    <h4>Chapter 134: Chapter 134: Want to be a Matchmaker</h4><h4></h4>

    Sun Chan was genuinely happy for her friend. Han Dong used to like her, butter she saw how he changed, from a carefree young man to a small business owner. Yang Liu was also a kind girl, so she was willing to help matchmake them.

    Sun Chan was happy at first, but then she hesitated a bit: "You know, I don��t have a good rtionship with my family. I guess there��s no dowry..."

    Sun Chan quickly patted her shoulder: "What are you thinking? Han Dong is not that kind of person. I��ll help you out. You two will definitely do well in the future. With two people living a good life, there will be a bright future."

    Yang Liu blushed, "We��re not even together yet. You don��t need to be in such a hurry."

    "Alright, I got it. Just wait for the good news." Sun Chan said with a smile. It was the first time she was ying matchmaker, she was a bit nervous but also excited.

    Although Yang Liu was shy, she was also a straightforward girl. After talking with Sun Chan, she pulled up the quilt and went to sleep. Sun Chan, however, was so excited that it took her a long time to fall asleep.

    The next day, Sun Chan opened her fruit shop, located in the corner of the hotel lobby. Travelers staying or passing by and getting ready to catch a bus woulde by to buy fruit. Seeing so many peopleing, Sun Chan was very happy.

    She just stayed in the small room inside every day, lit the small stove, and called out to customers when they came to buy something. If no one came, she stayed inside to read.

    Now she didn��t need to push a cart out to sell, so she had plenty of time.

    She started reviewing ording to her original n. She hoped to take the TV university exam. She had onlypleted grade six, so it was quite difficult for her. She could only mark the parts she didn��t understand and wait to ask Gu Junming about them.

    Sun Chan really wanted to ask what Han Dong thought, but he caught a cold after returning home and hadn��t been around.

    Yang Liu felt a bit disappointed and also a bit relieved, just waiting slowly.

    At lunchtime, Sun Chan suddenly had a feeling, she didn��t know why, just had a sense that Gu Junming was about to return.

    So, Sun Chan called the army, and sure enough, Gu Junming had returned.

    Gu Junming��s voice was a bit hoarse, he must have been very tired: "I just got back, I was just about to let you know."

    "Are you okay? Should I go over and see you?" Sun Chan asked with concern.

    Gu Junming replied: "No need, you��re busy now, too. I��m going to be on vacation soon, I��lle see you the day after tomorrow."

    "Alright. Gu Junming... are you... are you okay? I want to see you." She finished the sentence and then remembered she had already asked, feeling a bit embarrassed.

    Gu Junmingughed: "Wait for me, I��ming to see you soon."

    After hanging up the phone, she sat by the side, giggled stupidly for a while, and then began to daydream.

    Yang Liu saw Sun Chan in a daze, then walked over and waved her hand in front of her face, "What are you thinking about?"

    "I need to go out for a bit." Sun Chan finally couldn��t hold back. She hadn��t seen him for so many days, so she really couldn��t sit still. She hurriedly packed up and was about to leave.

    Yang Liu grabbed her: "Forget it. Didn��t he say he��sing soon? There��s no car and it��s far away."

    "I still want to see him, it��s okay, I��ll be back in the afternoon. Watch the stall for me, alright?" Sun Chan quickly packed a little and set off.

    Sun Chan transferred buses twice to get to the camp. As soon as she reached the gate, she saw Gu Junming. Sun Chan raised her hand to greet him, but then she saw two people, her foster mother Zhao Xiuxia and Sun Lijuan. Her heart tightened slightly, what was going on? Were they here to see Gu Junming?

    Sun Chan said nothing and quietly followed along.

    Gu Junming didn��t know Sun Chan hade. He walked with Zhao Xiuxia and Sun Lijuan ahead.

    The two came to find Gu Junming, saying they had something important to discuss.

    Gu Junming looked at them coldly: "I made it very clear to youst time, the debt issue is resolved, but now we��re just strangers. The only remaining issues are your job and the bride price, but those will be resolvedter. You should understand that clearly."

    Zhao Xiuxia was very angry: "You��re my daughter��s fianc��, how can you talk like this! Be careful I report to your unit, have you discharged immediately!"

    Gu Junming coldly said: "My fianc��e��s household registration was transferred from your ce. A total cost of over four thousand yuan was paid and even these human traffickers from your family were released. You should be well aware, no need for me to repeat it. If you say it again, I won��t let it slide so easily."

    Zhao Xiuxia was fuming. How could this person not soften his words at all!

    She wanted to shout something, but Sun Lijuan didn��t want to make things too ugly, after all, she still needed help. So she quickly grabbed Gu Junming and forced a smile: "Actually, I have something to ask of you."

    "Other than those two matters, I won��t get involved in anything else," Gu Junming said and then was about to leave.

    Zhao Xiuxia and Sun Lijuan quickly blocked Gu Junming on either side: "You can��t leave!"

    Gu Junming frowned, used his arms, and pushed the two of them out: "What exactly do you want? Just say it, no need for this tugging."

    Sun Lijuan stumbled and almost fell to the ground, but her mother caught her.

    Zhao Xiuxia angrily said: "And you call yourself a soldier, treating the people like this?"

    Gu Junming was indifferent to her criticism: "Exchanging pulls between men and women, is also not good for your reputation. Precisely because I��m a soldier, I should pay more attention to military appearance and discipline. I also advise both of you, it��s better to be mindful of the influence."

    Zhao Xiuxia was seething with anger.

    Sun Lijuan biting her lips said: "Actually, it��s like this, when my mother and I were in the countryside, we thought about how my sister hadn��te home in a long time, we missed her very much and didn��t know how she was. We also realized what we didst time wasn��t very good, so we decided not to ask for the bride price debt anymore, just let here home for the New Year. If you don��t believe it, we can even draw up an agreement."

    Zhao Xiuxia was anxious to shout, but was stopped by Sun Lijuan.

    Gu Junming looked at the two of them, frowning slightly, but said nothing.

    Sun Lijuan smiled: "Otherwise, it��s okay if she doesn��t go home. You juste with us to a ce, write up the agreement. To be honest, people in the vige are scolding us terribly now, we��re embarrassed to go home. It would be a help for us. Otherwise, we can��t go back, and you wouldn��t want to see us freezing outside, would you? How about you just witness us signing an agreement for her, and we��ll leave."

    Gu Junming thought for a moment and agreed. It wasn��t about the money, it would be good to sever ties with them as soon as possible.

 Chapter 135: Dazed

    <h4>Chapter 135: Chapter 135: Dazed</h4><h4></h4>

    "There��s a hotel up ahead, let��s go there," Sun Lijuan said excitedly as Gu Junming seemed to give in, hastily suggesting.

    Gu Junming nodded and proceeded forward.

    "Why not ask for the bride price..." Zhao Xiuxia waited until they had walked a good distance before urgently grabbing Sun Lijuan, "We don��t have much money now, that dead girl��s money won��t give us a cent!"

    "Shh. How would he agree toe with us otherwise? Mom, don��t get involved! As long as we get to a room in the hotel, everything will be fine. Did you bring the vial of drugs?"

    Zhao Xiuxia nodded, "That��s how it is, I understand now. You really are smart."

    "Gu Junming wouldn��t take us to his dormitory, so this is the only way. We��ll act ordingly when the timees."

    Zhao Xiuxia nodded, and the two of them quickly followed Gu Junming.

    Sun Chan had been hiding behind a utility pole, overhearing the two talking sporadically about hotels and drugs, her heart skipped a beat. Are they trying to trap someone?

    Sun Chan hurriedly followed, very tense.

    Zhao Xiuxia and Sun Lijuan booked a room, saying they��d stay there today, Gu Junming didn��t say anything and followed them inside.

    Once in the room, the two invited Gu Junming to sit down.

    However, Gu Junming refused, wouldn��t drink water, and didn��t want to waste words with them: "Weren��t you going to make a written agreement? Write it now. I��ve got business with my unit��my leave isn��t long. Please hurry."

    Sun Lijuan was resentful, this man is utterly unromantic, like a block of wood! What��s so good about Sun Chan, that he would go all out for that wretch?

    Zhao Xiuxia hinted to Sun Lijuan, who thought to herself, "No choice but to stabilize him first," took out a sheet of paper and began writing. Sun Lijuan was extremely unwilling, after all, why not demand the bride price? But since these words were already spoken, she had no choice but to brace herself and slowly write. Then she found an opportunity to nod at Zhao Xiuxia.

    At that moment, Zhao Xiuxia had already taken a vial of drugs from her bag, supposedly able to knock out an animal, very potent. Applying this to a towel to cover the mouth and nose could render someone unconscious.

    Once Sun Lijuan took off her clothes and theyy together, Gu Junming could not dispute it!

    Zhao Xiuxia went to the bathroom, poured out the drug, which had a very unusual aroma, Zhao Xiuxia crinkled her nose, wondering about the smell! Holding the sock towel as she walked out, who knew she would faint at the door.

    This drug was way too strong, she had used too much, and the enclosed space of the bathroom was thest straw, she hadn��t even done anything to Gu Junming yet, and she was about to pass out. Zhao Xiuxia groggily thought, "Not good! What��s happening to me?"

    She thought she needed to stay strong, her daughter was waiting for her; she thought, "I��ll knock Gu Junming out first, then wash my face and everything will be fine." But due to the effects of the drug, she opened the wrong door and opened the main entrance. Disoriented, she stumbled holding onto the door frame heading outside.

    Coincidentally, Sun Chan happened to walk in, ready to inquire which room they were in, sparing the effort as she saw Zhao Xiuxia.

    Half-consciously holding a towel, Zhao Xiuxia staggered a few steps then copsed to the ground.

    Sun Chan was startled, rushed over to check her breathing was normal, then nced at the towel, recalling the snatches of conversation between the two, she understood what was happening, cursing under her breath. What shameless beings��trying to knock out Gu Junming to do something wicked?

    Sun Chan ignored the woman, grabbed the towel, and holding her breath, walked further inside.

    By now, Sun Lijuan had almost finished writing the agreement; she started to grow anxious, wondering why her mom hadn��t reacted yet after being in there for so long��it was just dealing with drugs, what could be taking so long! But then she thought, once unconscious, this piece of paper would be null, why worry, so she continued writing in a steady hand.

    Just as Gu Junming asked her to sign, suddenly saw Sun Chan, eyes widening, almost shouting.

    Sun Chan ced a finger over her lips, signaling him not to speak.

    Gu Junming nodded, unable to restrain a smile.

    Sun Lijuan looked up and saw Gu Junming��s smiling face, heart leaping��did he like her?

    "Brother Gu, you must think carefully about this marriage. My sister doesn��t know anything, and she��s an orphan..."

    Gu Junming replied, "Have you signed your name? I��ll sign mine, and we��re done."

    He was not willing to say much more with this woman.

    Sun Lijuan resentfully signed her name, nced outside, wondering what her mom was doing!

    Everything seemed so difficult!

    But before she could turn her head, a handkerchief was suddenly brought over, covering Sun Lijuan��s mouth and nose. She felt an irritating scent and then her eyes rolled back in a faint.

    Gu Junming finally spoke, "What brings you here!"

    Sun Chanughed, "I went to your barracks looking for you, saw these two greeting you, so I followed. They were nning to harm you."

    "Harm me? nning to steal money?"

    Sun Chan chuckled and pointed at his chest, "No, from what I know about them, I��d estimate they��re nning to steal a person."

    Sun Lijuan always had high ambitions, naturally wanting to find a senior official in the city, Gu Junming was wealthy, looked good, had a bright future, naturally caught her eye. If she knocked him out and forced the matter, Gu Junming wouldn��t be able to argue, he��d be left with either jail or marriage.

    Sun Chan didn��t expect her older sister to be pregnant already, otherwise, she��d be even angrier.

    "Steal a person?" Gu Junming was initially puzzled, then turned red-faced, thoroughly disgusted!

    Sun Chan said, "I��d think they��d wake up in a while; let��s go."

    Gu Junming said, "What if they stubbornly im I harmed them?"

    "Indeed. What should we do?"

    "Call the police station."

    Sun Chan was stunned, "Huh? Why?"

    Gu Junming chuckled, "This is a drug, right? If someone gets knocked out, it needs to be investigated, otherwise, during the New Year, having criminals around wouldn��t be good."

    Sun Chan pped her hands andughed, "Really smart!"

    Gu Junming took her hand, "Got the towel? Hurry, wash hands, don��t knock yourself out."

    "Got it." Sun Chan smiled and ran out.

    They informed the innkeeper, then Gu Junming called the police, and soon officers arrived from the station.

    Gu Junming exined, as she was writing the agreement, he went to the bathroom, and upon returning, both were unconscious. Not knowing what had happened, he promptly reported it to the station.

    The station took it seriously��not to be taken lightly! Was this a drug-rted robbery attempt?

 Chapter 136 Framing

    <h4>Chapter 136: Chapter 136 Framing</h4><h4></h4>

    The police station set up a dedicated investigation team to look into this matter, and when Sun Lijuan and her mother woke up, they were already in the hospital, with uniformed officers guarding them. The two were immediately stunned.

    A female officer came over holding a notebook: "You��re awake? We need to verify some details with you now."

    "What details?" Sun Lijuan��s voice trembled slightly.

    "Weren��t you two knocked out by a drug?"

    Sun Lijuan thought for a moment. It seemed like they knew about the drugging incident. There was no way to hide it now. She could only bite the bullet and pressed her face, crying, "I��m too ashamed to live! What should I do?"

    "What exactly happened?" The female officer frowned. Wasn��t it just being drugged? Was it such a big deal?

    "I was just... by Gu Junming... boohoo..." Her expression was terribly pitiful.

    Seeing her daughter say this, Zhao Xiuxia immediately started crying too, "Who would have thought this bastard Gu Junming could do something like this? What do we do now?"

    The female officer frowned, "What are you talking about? What exactly did Gu Junming do?"

    "Don��t you know? He... vited me... boohoo... Isn��t this why you came?" Sun Lijuan wiped her tears and said, "Ie from the countryside. If this gets out, I can��t live anymore."

    Zhao Xiuxia also said, "We won��t pursue it. Gu Junming just has to marry my daughter." In her mind, she assumed the drug��s effects were too strong, and they had identally knocked themselves out. Sun Lijuan thought her mother had identally drugged her. Of course, this couldn��t be spoken of, so they decided to me it all on Gu Junming!

    Sun Lijuan covered her face and sobbed, "He was the one who drugged us and vited me. Boohoo..."

    This was a very serious usation against a soldier. They didn��t even consider what kind of charges he might face. Regardless, since he was the son of a chief, he could surely settle it. By then, they��d graciously forgive him, and Gu Junming would surely be willing to marry her to save himself.

    The female officer immediately said, "How is that possible! You were drugged by a criminal. It was Gu Junming and his partner who called the police, and they immediately brought the motel owner over. You were not vited. Did you hallucinate because of the drug?"

    Upon hearing this, the faces of the mother and daughter changed drastically. What was going on?

    Sun Lijuan hurriedly said, "How long were Gu Junming and I alone in the room? Only we know! After he drugged my mom, he... He��s afraid of being exposed, that��s why! Boohoo, I don��t even have a partner, how can I live in the future!"

    Finishing her words, she lunged at the window, acting as if she would jump. Although drugged, she had more strength and youthpared to Zhao Xiuxia and managed to reach the window.

    Zhao Xiuxia also started crying, struggling to get out of bed, "Daughter, think it through! This is a new society, and he��s a soldier. I refuse to believe there are so many shameless people and unreasonable situations in the world!"

    She wanted to go help, but was stopped by the female officer. Her whole body copsed on the officer, who was nearly out of breath, almost fainting, and yelled, "Don��t move!"

    "My daughter, you can��t die! If you die like this, I��ll sue, right up to the provincial, to the central level! I won��t let Gu Junming continue his arrogance!"

    Sun Lijuan sobbed, preparing to retreat from the window, "This unfilial daughter has only death left."

    "Comrade, hurry and arrest Gu Junming, he bullied our girl..." Zhao Xiuxia remembered, shaking the female officer��s arm.

    The female officer frowned, seeing through these two as troublemakers, yet they spoke so confidently, should someone really be arrested?

    At that moment, someone outside shouted, "There��s no need to arrest anyone, I��m here!"

    With a tter, the hospital room door opened, and Sun Chan walked in with Gu Junming.

    Two or three police station officers stood beside them. When Sun Lijuan saw Sun Chan now, her face turned extremely ugly. This damned girl had be so pretty!

    Well-dressed, with a rosyplexion, nothing like the countryside girl she remembered. And Gu Junming was holding her hand tightly! So shameless! Seducing Gu Junming! If it weren��t for her, would she need to go through such lengths?

    But no matter what she did, Gu Junming wouldn��t spare her a nce.

    Sun Chan said calmly, "You see that? I knew these two had bad intentions, framing you and setting you up."

    Gu Junming coldly acknowledged but said nothing. He felt a chill in his heart. If it weren��t for Sun Chan, these two��s n might have seeded. After all, who could tell for sure in matters like these? A man and a woman alone in a room, and the only witness was her mother. If Sun Lijuan insisted she was vited and died, what could be done?

    Earlier, he heard the two speaking to the female officer outside the door, and anger boiled within him. How shameless! What were they trying to do? Pin this on him?

    Su Miao was already horrible enough, yet they managed to be even more disgusting.

    Zhao Xiuxia was already furious seeing Sun Chan, and hearing her speak fueled her rage. She howled and attempted to hit, but the drug hadn��t worn off, causing her to slump back onto the bed.\p>

    "You damned girl, get over here! You shameless bitch, selling yourself wasn��t enough, you even want to ruin your sister to please men!"

    The female officer restrained her, "Calm down!" using an active-duty soldier was audaciously shameless. She walked over to pull Sun Lijuan back, "Behave, try tomit suicide again, and I��ll detain you!"

    Sun Lijuan didn��t dare to say more. She didn��t want to end up detained either, yet seeing Gu Junming��s cold expression made her nervous. However, other than stubbornly hanging on, she had no other options.

    Sun Chan said coldly, "You know the truth. Sun Lijuan, why try to seduce Gu Junming and ruin himpletely? What do you gain from it?"

    Sun Lijuan cried, "No, I didn��t! Everything I said is true, these two conspired to trick you! I was really vited by Gu Junming." Regardless, she was determined to hang onto Gu Junming!

    Later, she would im he forcibly tore her clothes; let��s see how they handle it!

 Chapter 137 Sharp Confrontation

    <h4>Chapter 137: Chapter 137 Sharp Confrontation</h4><h4></h4>

    Sun Lijuan remembers, back then in the vige, there was a widow just like that. She had her eyes on a man from a neighboring vige, but the man himself liked someone else. Yet one night, the widow stubbornly entered the house, iming to deliver something. Although she only stayed for a while, soon she imed to have been bullied, causing a huge stir. In the end, the man had no choice but to marry the widow. It is said that the couple is now living quite well.

    Sun Lijuan thought, that man was just a farmer who held his reputation in such high regard; Gu Junming would be even more cautious.

    Sun Chan didn��t get angry, she just smiled: "Do you really think this is the vige? Do whatever you say goes? Isn��t this a hospital? Get a doctor here. Sun Lijuan wants to frame you, I think it��s no ident. There might be a reason, maybe there��s some problem, afraid it can��t be covered up, and wants to me you?" She looked at Gu Junming.

    She had known Sun Lijuan for two lifetimes!

    Sun Lijuan always acted modest and quiet in front of well-off men. When has she been so desperate clinging onto someone like this unless she had no choice? Is it because she��s pregnant and wants to quickly find someone to take the fall? She immediately had this thought.

    Gu Junming nodded: "Your idea is good. Let��s do it."

    But upon hearing they were going to find a doctor, Sun Lijuan panicked immediately: "No! I��m fine, don��t say such useless things, your fiance bullied me, you just want to confuse everyone, I must sue Gu Junming!"

    "I��m doing this for your own good." Sun Chan smiled: "Didn��t you say Gu Junming bullied you? Perfect, let the doctor help with the examination. If you were really bullied, it can be found out, then I can give you Gu Junming."

    Zhao Xiuxia quickly said: "Why check, can��t believe your own family sister? Just let Gu Junming go now!"

    Gu Junmingughed, this woman directly reveals her intention? Sun Lijuan angrily pushed her own mother.

    The female officer stood up too: "Alright, I��ll go now, even if it��s a conviction, a doctor needs to confirm it, doesn��t it?" Actually, she wanted to find a neurologist, it��s clearly a mental issue, when she was delivered her clothes were intact, everyone watched, yet she ims to have been molested, isn��t it a mental problem?

    Sun Lijuan��s face turned ugly, her lips moved but couldn��t say anything to stop the doctor from being called.

    Gu Junming coldlyughed at this moment: "What kind of society is this? Want to frame someone with mere words? Let me tell you, whether or not you were really bullied, it will be known with a doctor��s examination; does what you say it is, still havew and justice?"

    Seeing the coldness in Gu Junming��s eyes, Sun Lijuan couldn��t help but shiver, this person... so terrifying.

    Zhao Xiuxia��s drug effect mostly wore off, she hurriedly rushed over and pulled the female officer: "No, you can��t call the doctor!"

    "Why not? Didn��t you say you��re standing up for your daughter? This is also a way to send Gu Junming to jail! But keep in mind, if you��re framing, you will be sent to military court!" Sun Chan sternly said.

    The two were terrified having never seen Sun Chan so formidable before, they immediately shivered.

    Zhao Xiuxia steadied herself: "You brat, you��re my daughter, is that how you talk to me?"

    Sun Chan stared directly at her: "Are you senile? I��ve already spent so much money breaking off our mother-daughter rtionship, how many times do you need me to say it? You raised me like an animal for so many years, and demanded so much money when I left, still not satisfied, now you bring your daughter over, what exactly do you want?"

    "I say you..."

    "Officer, don��t waste your time, I suspect these two are conspiring to frame, go to the underworld and find out clearly." Gu Junming didn��t want to waste words with them.

    Sun Lijuan urgently said: "No! I won��t sue, don��t call the doctor..."

    She was anxious to escape, but staggered, and fell to the floor under the bed.

    Zhao Xiuxia rushed over in panic wanting to help her daughter up, but due to the drugs, she ended up pressing down on her daughter��s back.

    Sun Lijuan was pregnant, having inhaled that anesthetic, her body was already in difort. Plus Zhao Xiuxia��s weight pressing down, she suddenly felt breathless, chest tightness, a rush of sour liquid surged up. She couldn��t hold back and vomited, hitting her mother��s face.

    Disgusted, Sun Chan turned her head away, Gu Junming frowned but kept his distance.

    Zhao Xiuxia yelled, grabbed the bed sheet to wipe her face. The officer outside shouted: "Don��t damage public property!"

    But Zhao Xiuxia ignored it, wiped her face down and looked for a basin, to fetch water: "I��ll wash it off for you Juan��er."

    Sun Lijuan felt humiliated and frightened, lifted her head to see Sun Chan avoid her direction, her expression extremely loathsome. Her heart twisted painfully, how once far inferior to herself people now tower over her, heavens are truly unfair!

    Lowering her head, she saw Sun Chan��s hand firmly held by Gu Junming in his beast-like grip, inciting even more anger.

    She thought, she definitely couldn��t let her child be discovered, thus suddenly rose up, mustered all her strength, charged towards Sun Chan: "You cannot stand to see others good, wish to ruin my reputation? I��ll fight with you?"

    Her n was to pretend to faintter, then frame Sun Chan by saying her bones broke, anyway, when that timees Sun Chan being at fault; no choice but to back off from forcing her. Who knew she stepped on her own vomit earlier, directly slipped, and fell to the floor.

    In the midst of several people eximing, Sun Lijuan felt sharp pain in her belly, then warm fluids flowed down her trouser leg. Sun Lijuan screamed: "Mom, Mom ah, my stomach hurts!"

    Zhao Xiuxia fetched a water basin and returned to find her daughter lying in filth, her pants soaked with blood, her whole body convulsing.

    Crash! The basin hit the ground, sshing water everywhere, she rushed to hold Sun Lijuan: "Daughter oh! Juan��er, what��s wrong? Help my daughter quickly!" she cried desperately.

    The police station��s notice couldn��t be ignored, they quickly helped her onto the bed, and a doctor was found promptly. Sent into the operating room.

    Zhao Xiuxia couldn��t go inside, could only weep and wail outside. She was truly nervous and in pain, as her daughter suffered inside. What if something fatal happens? What if the truthes out? What to do?

    Follow current novels on freewe(b)novel.c(o)m

 Chapter 138: Unlucky

    <h4>Chapter 138: Chapter 138: Unlucky</h4><h4></h4>

    Sun Chan and Gu Junming sat far apart, both wanting a resolution.

    Gu Junming saw Sun Chan��s calm expression and smiled, patting her hand, "What are you thinking about?"

    Sun Chan smiled and said, "I think, although Zhao Xiuxia was terrible to me, she was genuinely good to her daughter." In her previous life, she harmed me thinking she could get more resources for her daughter. As for me, I didn��t have much family affection in either life.

    Gu Junming naturally understood Sun Chan��s thoughts and held her hand tightly, "I won��t say any unnecessary words. Just watch how I act. I won��t let you be bullied or continue to suffer. I��ll take care of you."

    "Hmm, I believe you." Sun Chan smiled.

    The door of the operating room opened. The doctor came out with a serious face, and Zhao Xiuxia rushed over, grabbing the doctor��s hand.

    "How is my daughter?"

    The doctor said, "The child couldn��t be saved. Take good care of yourself. It��ll be... difficult to have children in the future, so take it easy." Actually, he wanted to say it��s almost impossible to have children, but he was afraid she couldn��t take it, so he put it gently.

    Zhao Xiuxia had heard such words before and wasn��t too shocked; her heart was filled with bitterness. If only her daughter had listened to her and married Zhou Jinzhu, wouldn��t it have been nice? Instead, she insisted on Gu Junming, and this is the result...

    "That was Gu Junming��s child. He bullied my daughter..."

    "Shut up!" Sun Chan yelled, "Based on the timing, Gu Junming and Sun Lijuan didn��t even know each other! The first time they met was when we went back to the countryside to negotiate household registration issues. I was with Gu Junming the whole time. How could he have bullied her? Who do you think you are, harming people like this every day?"

    "How dare you talk to me like that?" She trembled with anger, these two bitches caused this, if it weren��t for them, my daughter wouldn��t have had this ident? She quickly rushed towards Sun Chan and Gu Junming, raising her hand to grab Sun Chan��s neck, "Bitch! Little brat, if it weren��t for you, a jinx, your sister wouldn��t be like this. She can��t have children, and I won��t let you have a good time either!"

    But before she could get any money, Sun Chan pped her.

    Zhao Xiuxia couldn��t have dreamt that this daughter, whom she had bullied since childhood, would actually hit her, leaving her stunned. Her face stung with pain, and she pointed at Sun Chan, unable to speak.

    Sun Chan said coldly, "Didn��t you forget? I��m not your daughter anymore! You bullied me till I was seventeen, and you��re still not satisfied? How did your daughter��s childe about? Did youe to use Gu Junming of the child this time? Don��t you have any shame!"

    "How dare you hit me? I gave birth to you and raised you. You are my child. How dare you hit me, you ungrateful heartless wretch... I will make sure your reputation is ruined in the vige, so you can��t hold your head high..."

    "Whatever." She said coldly, "I don��t care about my reputation, nor about what you say about me. I just want to live well in this life, and I won��t take your abuse anymore! You bullied me before, and I can��t believe you want to ruin my boyfriend��s reputation now. Can��t you stand to see me well? When I was with your family, I worked like a dog and gave you many benefits before you agreed to let me leave. And now youe back to ruin me, are you even human?"

    Zhao Xiuxia cursed and rushed over again, but this time a fewrades held her back.

    "Are you crazy? Be quiet!"

    "Let go of me, I want to beat this stinky girl to death!"

    She struggled a few times but was unsessful, having not eaten for a few meals left her without any strength, thus she had no energy to fight with several police officers. Throughout, Gu Junming was shielded by Sun Chan, not allowing him to go forward.

    Because Gu Junming wouldn��t know how to hold back, and Zhao Xiuxia herself was ill-intentioned, if Gu Junming identally touched Zhao Xiuxia, she might feign injury or death to entrap him, who knows what would happen then.

    Gu Junming understood Sun Chan��s intent and smiled at her, "You��re clever."

    "I��m not clever, I��m just trying to stay alive. Otherwise, this mother and daughter would have killed me." Sun Chan sighed.

    "Are you going to pursue it further?"

    "Forget it. Let��s scare them a bit and leave it. After all, they lost a child."

    Gu Junming nodded and went aside to talk to a head officer of the police station. That person was also acquainted with the Gu Family, so he was nice to Gu Junming, and showed a bit of sympathy. Despite having a good background, because he��s from the countryside, these kinds of people alwaystch onto him, what bad luck.

    By the time Sun Lijuan woke up, the police station people were already by her side. Sun Chan was also standing coldly aside.

    Sun Lijuan��s whole body was aching terribly. She struggled to sit up and say, "What do you want?"

    "Your mother caused a disturbance and was detained for three days. We want to know what you think. What��s your n?"

    Sun Lijuan��s vision went ck, almost fainting, "What happened to my mom?"

    Sun Chan said, "Your mom is in deep enough trouble, falsely iming the child is Gu Junming��s. At that time, Gu Junming wasn��t even with you, there��s no way to deny it."

    "You clearly set me up..."

    "If you keep talking nonsense, we��ll charge you with defamation. You can forget about school and go chew on prison food!" Sun Chan said.

    Sun Lijuan grabbed the bedsheet tightly, gritting her teeth without a word. She couldn��t possibly say she wasn��t pregnant and was wrongly used with so many police officers watching. To climb up to Gu Junming now is harder than ascending the sky, what a wretch among wretches! Now all she could do was try not to go to prison.

    This Sun Chan is now too difficult to deal with, like a stone in atrine, foul and hard, sharp in character, ruthless in words and actions, what to do! It really infuriates me!

    She thought for a moment, then sobbed, "Sister, please don��t be angry, it��s all my fault. Back in the vige, I didn��t know who wronged me, I was momentarily confused and listened to mom��s malicious words, I didn��t mean to, sister, forgive me, for the sake of our childhood bond..."

    "No need for extra words." Sun Chan threw out a piece of paper, "Sign your name!" It was the paper from when she tricked Gu Junming that she��d written, renouncing the betrothal gifts.

    "Why..."

    "As if I don��t know you? You guys initially agreed to a certain amount of betrothal gifts, but by the time it came, it would only increase. Let��s just scrap this, I won��t give you the betrothal gifts, but Gu Junming will still arrange a job for you. Otherwise, you desperately need this betrothal money, but once you��re in prison, don��t even think about finishing school and getting a job."

    Sun Lijuan��s facial features twisted with hatred, so this is where you��re waiting for me, huh? You can only choose one of the two.

 Chapter 139: Resentment Escalation

    <h4>Chapter 139: Chapter 139: Resentment Esction</h4><h4></h4>

    This time, not only did Sun Lijuan��s wrongful usation fail, but it also messed up the n she and her mother had to demand a bride price. It was truly a case of trying to steal a chicken and losing the rice used to lure it. But she had to agree; the police were right there, and she had tried to frame Gu Junming without sess. Besides, she still had a job to keep.

    As long as she made it to the city, everything would be fine.

    Sun Lijuan picked up a pen, signed her name, and tossed it to Sun Chan. Sun Chan picked it up and turned to leave.

    "Stop!" Sun Lijuan looked at Sun Chan: "Don��t think you��re in the clear this time. Gu Junming is a top leader, and you��re just an illegitimate child. Do you really think he��ll stay good to you forever? Just wait until he gets tired of you, and then you��ll be left crying."

    Sun Chan sneered: "You��d better take care of yourself. I��ll tell you once more, live your life well, and don��t cross me, or you��ll only get unlucky." With that, she left.

    The police officers said a few words to Sun Lijuan before leaving as well. They didn��t have a good impression of this girl at all. Losing her virginity was one thing, but trying to frame her brother-inw to climb up the socialdder? What kind of person does that?

    Sun Lijuany alone on the cold bed, tears streaming down. She had always been proud and ambitious; when had she ever been this humiliated? Now her body was ruined, and she could never have children again. It was all Sun Chan��s fault��from the moment she refused to marry Zhou Jinzhu and left the vige, nothing had gone smoothly for her!

    "Just you wait, if I have to die, I��ll take you down with me," she said through gritted teeth. Naturally, she hated Zhou Jinzhu just as much, and she wouldn��t let him have a peaceful life either. She was determined to find a way to deal with him!

    While Sun Lijuan was seething with anger and enduring her illness,

    Sun Chan and Gu Junming had already left the hospital with light steps. Although the matter was resolved, Sun Chan wasn��t in a great mood either.

    "Those two always me others for their misfortunes. I can��t imagine how much they hate me now."

    Gu Junming frowned slightly: "Don��t worry about them. We��ve let them off the hook a few times already. One more incident like this, and we��ll let them go to jail. If it weren��t for Zhao Xiuxia raising you, selling you off to Xiong��er Ridge alone would be enough to press charges."

    Sun Chan sighed: "Even though it wasn��t great, she did raise me. It��s not that easy to be so heartless."

    Gu Junming didn��t reply. Though he understood Sun Chan, he still thought she was too kind.

    In winter, night falls early, and it was alreadypletely dark. Sun Chan felt a bit regretful: "I wanted to have a nice meal and chat with you, but who knew we��d run into such a situation? It��s really unfortunate."

    Gu Junming smiled and didn��t say much, simply embracing her.

    Sun Chan was startled and pushed Gu Junming: "What are you doing? We��re on the street."

    "There��s no one around," Gu Junming patted her back. "I��ve taken a few days off to spend with you, and then we can go back to the vige for the New Year together."

    Sun Chan nodded: "Do you want to stay at my ce? Don��t go back; the army camp is too far from where I live."

    Gu Junming shook his head with a smile: "Aren��t there a lot of people staying there already?"

    "They��re all staying at the inn," Guihua took her son there. Staying at the inn, they could look after the shop, and Yang Liu went with them too. Originally, they were going to ask Sun Chan over, but since she was worried that not lighting the stove would freeze the pipes and cause problems for the neighbors, she decided not to go.

    Gu Junming nodded: "Alright, I��ll go with you."

    Sun Chan was very happy and didn��t think about any inconveniences of men and women. Gu Junming smiled and shook his head; even though she was eighteen, she was still like a kid.

    The two didn��t eat out but returned to the house. The stove��s embers had gone out. Sun Chan quickly rekindled the fire, steamed a pot of rice, simmered some potatoes and cabbage, and fried a te of pepper eggs for the meal.

    Both Sun Chan and Gu Junming were hungry, so they ate heartily. Gu Junming shared some stories about his disaster relief efforts, avoiding the dangerous parts and only talking about the mundane ones, yet Sun Chan was still frightened for him.

    "You��re really working hard."

    "It��s okay, it��s what I��m supposed to do in the first ce."

    Sun Chan, feeling a bit shy, asked, "Will you get promoted?"

    Gu Junming chuckled: "Maybe." This time, the soldiers he led saved employees from a factory workshop, earning a merit award. Meanwhile, his twopetitors had encountered some problems, so if nothing unexpected happened, he��d get the position he wanted.

    Sun Chan was delighted and ced a piece of egg on his te: "You��re amazing, here��s a reward for you."

    "Alright." Gu Junmingughed. "Since I have nothing else to do, I��ll help you sell fruit tomorrow."

    Sun Chan nodded enthusiastically. To other couples, this might seem normal, but for her, it was precious because Gu Junming, being a soldier, couldn��t often be around.

    After eating, Sun Chan heated some water in arge aluminum basin on the stove for him to wash up.

    Then she found a thick quilt and set it up in the small room next door, where Yang Liu used to live. It was originally used for storage, but after Yang Liu came, they cleared it out for her.

    While she was making the bed, Sun Chan suddenly realized she would be spending the night alone with Gu Junming, and her actions slowed as her ears turned red.

    Gu Junming walked in, drying his face with a towel: "You don��t need to make it too hot. I��m used to sleeping in cooler ces and don��t want to overheat."

    Startled, Sun Chan identally pricked her finger and let out a light yelp.

    Gu Junming quickly went over and helped her up: "What��s wrong?"

    "Nothing, you sleep," Sun Chan said shyly, pulling her hand away.

    Gu Junming, certainly aware of her nervousness, didn��t say much, just smiled and patted her shoulder: "Alright, you sleep early too." He climbed directly onto the kang (a heated brick bed).

    Sun Chan went to the room next door, hesitated for a moment, and ended up locking the door. She felt quite embarrassed.

    Hearing the sound from that room, Gu Junming smiled helplessly. Though his wife was nearby, there wasn��t much he could do. He didn��t want to scare her. Better get some sleep. He quickly fell asleep after getting under the covers, while Sun Chan tossed and turned a bit before finally drifting off.

    Early the next morning, Sun Chan got up, started the stove, and reheated the leftover food from the night before in the pot to get Gu Junming up for breakfast.

    Gu Junming, already ustomed to early rises in the army, was up by then, sitting on the kang writing in a ck notebook.

    Curious, Sun Chan asked, "What��s that?"

    Gu Junming tapped the notebook: "I��m thinking of helping you get into a school. Studying on your own is fine, but it��s not very systematic. You��d definitely be confused. You should start attending sses with the middle schoolers."

 Chapter 140: Han Dong’s Heart

    <h4>Chapter 140: Chapter 140: Han Dong��s Heart</h4><h4></h4>

    Sun Chan looked at Gu Junming in surprise.

    Gu Junming said, "When the timees to take exams at Electric University, it won��t be as difficult. Physics starts from the second year of junior high, chemistry in the third year, you can follow along and learn again. These are all schools I can help with, and we can find one close to where you live. Plus, you don��t need to go every day, so it��s better to find one with good connections."

    Sun Chan blinked, staring nkly at Gu Junming.

    Gu Junming looked up at her, "What��s wrong? Overjoyed to the point of silence?"

    Just as he finished speaking, he felt a moment of darkness as his lips were blocked by two soft, warm lips. He felt like his whole body was electrified, leaning over there, his eyes deepening.

    But Sun Chan didn��t seem to notice, she let go of his neck,ughing cheerfully.

    "Really, thank you so much. I don��t know anyone, studying by myself is exhausting too. If possible, listening to the teachers for math, physics, and chemistry would be great. I really... boo hoo..."

    Gu Junming saw her rosy lips move up and down, and couldn��t resist anymore. He pulled her into his arms with one hand and kissed her back forcefully. Sun Chan��s hands were weakly pressed against his chest, her whole body feeling hot, and Gu Junming��s hand was forcefully touching her back, several times wanting to press her onto the bed but ultimately restraining himself.

    After a while, he finally let go of her, silence fell between them, Sun Chan��s heart was about to jump out, her face red as if about to drip blood. She had just sensed a certain part of his body, pressed tightly against her leg. Flustered and emotional. Fortunately, he finally let her go, otherwise, if they were together before marriage, wouldn��t it be inappropriate?

    "You... are you angry?" Gu Junming felt he had offended her, a bit embarrassed, "Sorry."

    Sun Chan shook her head, not wanting to be so pretentious, stood up and said, "I��m fine, wash up and eat."

    Gu Junming put away his things and followed her out. Neither of them mentioned the incident again, but both were thinking about not getting too close in the future. That would be a mistake.

    After eating, Gu Junming and Sun Chan went to Guihua��s inn.

    Guihua was outside, directing staff to shovel snow. Seeing Sun Chan bringing a soldier along, she knew it was her boyfriend and quickly greeted them with a smile.

    Gu Junming smiled and said, "Thank you, big sister, for taking care of Sun Chan all this time."

    "No, actually, speaking of it, she took care of me more often. I��m not good at cooking orundry. She just spoils me," sheughed heartily.

    Guihua felt Sun Chan had good taste and quite liked him too, so she spoke a bit freely.

    "Great! I knew Sun Chan wouldn��t be with Han Dong, just found someone better. Isn��t this the case now! Han Dong isn��t as dependable as you, so rest assured, Sun Chan won��t be snatched away!" Guihua said with a broad smile.

    Sun Chan hurriedly tugged on Guihua��s arm.

    Guihua quickly added, "Look at what I said! Han Dong is a nice guy, just teasing, just teasing!"

    Gu Junming nced at Sun Chan, who quickly said, "It really isn��t that kind of rtionship. Just friends."

    "I didn��t think anything. I was just thinking, if that brat bullies you, I��d beat him to death."

    Gu Junming of course knew what kind of person Han Dong was. Lustful and fickle, without any patience. He needed a good warning now. Guihua��s business was getting busier, and they didn��t have time to say anything more and went inside to work.

    No one took those words to heart, but just as Yang Liu came out to take the trash, she heard Guihua��s remark and was stunned.

    What��s this? Did Han Dong ever like Sun Chan? But Sun Chan never told her that.

    Yang Liu initially felt a bit ufortable but then understood it was probably to avoid making her feel awkward. However, she��s confident in herself; she looks good, is a city girl, notcking in anythingpared to Sun Chan. If she could be with Han Dong, she would be happy without worrying about Han Dong��s previous affections.

    Since it��s the end of the year, many people were returning home, so the inn was quite crowded. During the busiest time, Sun Chan asked Gu Junming to help keep an eye on the fruit stand while she went out to help clean up.

    When Gu Junming was young, he often went to town with his sister to sell vegetables, so he could do the math and knew the scales, no problem. Just a bit regretful, finally spending some time with his sweetheart and she��s busy helping others, unable to say much��what a pity.

    The inn had plenty of tasks, changing bed sheets, sweeping floors, and preparing simple meals for guests. It was tiring work, making one��s back ache. She remembered Han Dong.

    Even though he came from a good family, he never minded the fatigue of working. Even when Guihua kept him busy, he joked around without anyints.

    She remembered him bumping into her thest time, making her feel even shyer, her heart entirely captured by Han Dong.

    Meanwhile, Han Dong wasing down from another girl��s bed, dressing with his back to her. They met asionally while shopping when the girl didn��t have enough money to buy clothes, and Han Dong covered the rest.

    They hit it off with flirtatious nces.

    The girl looked at him coquettishly, "How long are you leaving this time? Not going out with me?"

    Han Dong pulled on his jacket, half-jokingly, "It��s New Year��s, you know? Not spending time with parents, just looking for men, your parents raised you for nothing. You��re a real good-for-nothing."

    The girl kicked Han Dong with her fair leg, "Earlier you said I was your sweetheart for life, forgot so soon. Truly heartless."

    Han Dong chuckled because could you really trust words said on the bed? Of course, he understood she was joking, the girl was quite captivating.

    He pulled out his wallet, took out a fewrge bills, and tossed them to her, "Buy yourself some nice clothes. You like watches, right? Buy one."

    The girl counted the money, smiled at him, "What do you take me for?"

    "You don��t want it? I��ll take it back," he said, leaning down to grab the money.

    "Why wouldn��t I want it? Not expecting you to stay with me forever, it��s only right to get some benefits," the girl hurriedly shoved the money under the pillow, wrapped her arms around Han Dong, blinking her long phoenix eyes, "Who can really win your heart?"

    Han Dong pinched her chin, "Certainly not you."

    "Hmph! I don��t expect it either. I just want to see who can really tame you, you heartless phnderer."

    Han Dong smiled without responding, dressed, and left without hesitation.

    He had been upset over Sun Chan for a while but wasn��t so painfully distressed. Being a wanderer at heart, he couldn��t stop himself from drifting.

 Chapter 141: Exploiting Relationships

    <h4>Chapter 141: Chapter 141: Exploiting Rtionships</h4><h4></h4>

    If Han Dong knew someone was thinking about marrying him, he��d probably be scared out of his wits.

    When he got home, he saw Zhao Yingjun across the hall, hurriedly carrying things out in front, his wife Su Jinxiu had already given birth to a big chubby boy, and the couple��s irritations from Su Miao had vanished along with her departure.

    Han Dong watched his back with a slight frown, truly an incorrigible fellow. To eveny hands on his wife��s niece is beastly.

    But thinking it had nothing to do with him, he paid it no more attention.

    Back home, Han Dong naturally first endured a scolding from his dad and mom, which he was long used to, responding with a cheeky smile.

    Tian Jinhua said: "During the New Year, you��re not allowed to go out. Uncle Yang ising back to celebrate."

    Han Dong frowned: "What does Uncle Yanging back for the New Year have to do with me? I don��t know him."

    "How old are you this New Year? He��sing back for Tiantian��s marriage arrangements, that girl..."

    Not waiting for her to finish, Han Dong just said he was tired and went into his room, truly annoying! Ever since he turned twenty-two, every meeting seemed to have this alone. That Yang Tiantian is even more nauseating, he absolutely does not want her!

    Tian Jinhua sighed helplessly, ncing at her husband.

    Han Jinshan didn��t care, flipping through the newspaper, he had long been resigned to this son.

    "You heartless thing, your son is like this and you don��t care? Yang Tiantian��s family background isn��t bad. Don��t you talk it over with your son? Do you want him unmarried for life?" Tian Jinhua said.

    Han Jinshan slightly frowned: "The background is good, but she��s been spoiled by her parents beyond recognition."

    "Isn��t that because something happened to Yang Family��s second child? Then they spoiled their eldest daughter a bit more."

    "A bit?" Han Jinshan snorted: "She��s almost worshipped like an ancestor, with terrible character and morals. Yang Bingtao had some abilities in his life, but it��s a pity his daughter was spoiled rotten. Let me state this first, I don��t want a daughter-inw like that." He got up, tossed the newspaper aside, and went into the room.

    Tian Jinhua tidied up the newspaper, also sighed, and thought Yang Family had indeed been through some tragedies back then, otherwise, they wouldn��t have ovepensated with Tiantian, ending up like this.

    Things weren��t too harmonious here, but the household across, Zhao Yingjun��s family, was getting along well.

    Su Jinxiu was gently rocking her baby; for her, everything was sufficient with a son. Since she had given birth to the boy, her position was very stable, and she no longer worried about Zhao Yingjun divorcing her.

    Su Miao had left anyway, so things were quite peaceful recently. She wasn��t checking on Zhao Yingjun as strictly as before, intending to get out of bed to greet him when she saw him return.

    Zhao Yingjun appeared indifferent, ncing at his wife only to shift his eyes away. Due to the pregnancy, Su Jinxiu had developed many butterfly spots on her forehead and arms, and her figure had be particrly plump, entirely losing her previous elegance and beauty.

    He held her shoulders: "Rest up. No need to get out of bed." Then nced at his son��s face: "How��s the kid today? Sleeping well?"

    "Sleeping and eating, pretty much. He��s doing good." Su Jinxiu smiled and said, "He��s been thinking about Daddy all day."

    Seeing his son was also quite pleasing to Zhao Yingjun, after all, he had someone to follow in his footsteps. After a while of pampering the child, he went to the kitchen to cook.

    Leaning back on the bed, Su Jinxiu thought, maybe this was just life. Zhao Yingjun was a bit cold to her, but so what? He was, after all, a forty-year-old man, what possible romantic notions could there still be? Things were quite good as they were now.

    But in the kitchen, while Zhao Yingjun was chopping vegetables, his thoughts were with another woman, Su Miao.

    Su Miao had gone looking for Zhao Yingjun today.

    She had gone to see Gu Junming before, but not only did she not get closer to him, it only annoyed him. It was truly a waste of effort. Left with no choice, she went to work in the canteen where she had to do all the dirty, tiring jobs. Every day during the harsh winter, her hands were all cracked from dealing with water. Those employees bullied neers, and in frustration, Su Miao resigned.

    Shey restless on the hotel bed, having nearly exhausted all the money she brought from home. With the New Year approaching, she knew she had to at least return home with something decent.

    But with little money left and no job, she could only hole up in the small inn, asionally encountering some dodgy characters, making her quite nervous, yet she had no courage to face Gu Junming again.

    Before understanding, she thought Gu Junming was honest and kind-hearted, but who knew he was cold both inside and out. Except for that damn Sun Chan, he didn��t care about anyone��s business and held no sentiment for his fellow vigers. Going again wouldn��t earn her even a shred of vige goodwill.

    Su Miao wasn��t stupid, she might still need Gu Junming in the future.

    Since she couldn��t rely on him, there was only...

    Fists clenched, Su Miao was out of options and had to wait for Zhao Yingjun to get off work at his workce.

    She knew Zhao Yingjun��s intentions towards her, but if it meant a better life, she could only endure it. What else could she do? Return to the vige to farm? She really wasn��t willing, not when there was such a good prospect ahead!

    Seeing Su Miao made Zhao Yingjun overjoyed, she was far prettier than his wife by a hundred times.

    Not to mention, because of his wife��s childbirth, he hadn��t touched a woman for so long now.

    The sight of this young beauty was too much, he couldn��t help but rush over, saying, "It��s you, Su Miao! What have you been up totely? I��ve always worried about you. Your aunt is also looking out for you, always wanting to know how you��ve been, but she just gave birth not long ago, don��t mind her." As he spoke, he reached to take her hand.

    Anyway, greeting as elders and juniors isn��t inappropriate.

    Seeing him reminded Su Miao of the day she got kicked out, filled with hatred in her heart!

    Flirt when you want, then kick aside with no benefit. Such shamelessness!

    But living under someone else��s roof, she could only pretend not to remember.

    She smiled, dodging his salty hands: "Thanks for your concern, Uncle. I got introduced to work at the cafeteria, but with New Year around the corner, I resigned, thinking to head home and put my parents�� minds at ease, but I..."

    Zhao Yingjun, having been around women, understood immediately, pulling out severalrge bills from his pocket.

    "It��s not easy being out there alone. Your aunt was pregnant and caused a stir, forcing you out like that makes my face red. Don��t me her. Take this money."

    Su Miao hastily refused a while but eventually epted: "Thank you, Uncle! Once I make something of myself, I��ll surely honor you and Aunt!" Her smile was like a blooming flower, making Zhao Yingjun��s heart feel drunk.

 Chapter 142: Escaped

    <h4>Chapter 142: Chapter 142: Escaped</h4><h4></h4>

    "What are you being polite for?" Zhao Yingjun, while giving the money, took hold of Su Miao��s hand: "Look at you, you��ve worn yourself out, we must not have taken good care of you!"

    Su Miao couldn��t turn hostile after epting the money, so she said with a smile: "Thank you for your concern, Uncle."

    "Which hotel are you staying at? I��lle find you. You don��t have to work every day now, right? If I see you��re missing something there, I��ll help you get it. Then I��ll send you back home."

    Su Miao nodded: "Thank you, Uncle. I��m staying at the East Wind Inn. It��s gettingte, I should head back. You should go home early too."

    "I��ll walk you back, no rush." Zhao Yingjun insisted on taking Su Miao to the inn.

    All the way, he made countless inappropriate remarks, even tried to follow her into her room, saying he wanted to see if anything was missing. Su Miao thought to herself, I must be crazy to let you into my room, would that end well?

    She replied with a smile; "It��s already dark, Uncle should go back. Aunt just had a baby not long ago, she must be wishing for you to spend more time with her. If she sees you not returning, she might get upset. How about tomorrow, I��ll wait for you here."

    Zhao Yingjun thought she had a point and decided toe over tomorrow at noon instead. He had already spent quite some money, so he nned on getting close to the girl then. She wouldn��t be able to say anything.

    He said a few more pleasant words, squeezed her little hand, and reluctantly left.

    Su Miao watched his back with resentment, let out a coldugh, and hurried back to her room. She bolted the door and was ready to rest.

    She originally nned to stay for the night and leave the next day, but as shey in bed ying with the money, she thought it over and sat up. No way! Better to leave early and avoid more trouble. What if this leches at night? She immediately got up to pack and took the train home that very night.

    Zhao Yingjun didn��t know Su Miao��s n. As he chopped vegetables in the kitchen, humming a tune, he thought about his niece��s slender waist and delicate face, almost drooling.

    Su Jinxiu, while eating, nced at her husband��s smiling face and thought, could it be he��s done being mad at me? It��s been so long, finally, he shows a cheerful demeanor.

    Zhao Yingjun fantasized about it, but when he went over at noon the next day, he found out Su Miao had left early. He was so enraged he nearly passed out, his eyes went ck.

    Great! You took my money and just ran off! Do you think this is over? Was I not cautious enough for a snack seller? He went home to discuss with his wife about going back to her hometown for the New Year.

    Su Jinxiu was dumbfounded: "What did you say? I just finished confinement a few days ago, our child is still small! Besides, my parents aren��t around anymore, we��d only go to my brother��s ce, what��s the point? I even had a spat with Su Miao..."

    "Precisely because you had a spat, it��s your chance to smooth things over! Think about it, would Su Miao just let it go if she went home? She��d definitely spread bad things about you! I��m doing this for your good. Besides, you��ve given birth to a son, and I care for you, don��t you want to show off a little? It��s settled then, dress the kid warmly, we��ll be there in one night." Zhao Yingjun went into the room.

    Su Jinxiu, biting her lip, looked at her child. How many times had he rejected the idea of going back to her parents�� house, saying she was a disgrace being from the vige? Yet now, all of a sudden, he��s heading back. Is he still thinking about that wretch Su Miao?

    But what can she do, now that she has no power or influence? Fine, let��s go back. I��ll keep an eye on you every day, and I��ll see if you two can still hook up right under my Su family��s noses. If so, I��ll concede.

    Su Jinxiu also wanted to show off a bit. After all, marrying a city leader was something the vigers hadn��t seen yet. People had to see it. Once they agreed, they began to pack.

    Sun Chan and Gu Junming had already decidedst night to return to the vige. Unexpectedly, just before leaving, Gu Junming called from the courtyard. Then he learned that the next day was Wang Hu and Bai Fann��s wedding. Wang Hu was adamant that Gu Junming attend, so he had no choice but to agree.

    Additionally, Gu Zishan informed Gu Junming that his younger brother had left home.

    Gu Junming was taken aback: "What did you say? Why did Gu Juntao leave?"

    Gu Zishan sighed: "Your brother came back from the disaster area, went to find Yang Hongying, but she was already gone, no idea where to. Yan Kai couldn��t reach her either. Your brother said he went to find her, and hasn��t returned since."

    Gu Zishan wasn��t too worried about his son. No matter what, he still held an official position. He wouldn��t just disappear for good unless he gave up being in the military.

    However, Wang Guihua almost went crazy, searching everywhere. In this cold winter, where could she find him!

    Gu Zishan��s attempts to console her were futile. He could only let her be. With Gu Dongfang away with the troops, even he wasn��t informed.

    "In any case, this family isn��t in the New Year spirit anymore, let them fuss around." He sighed. He had hoped for a New Year��s Eve dinner, but now it seemed that was off the table. It was all too exasperating.

    Gu Junming said: "I understand, I��ll ask some of his closerades. He should be back soon. You��re attending Wang Hu��s wedding too, we��ll talk then."

    Gu Zishan hesitated for a moment, then said: "Your brother��s marriage already caused dissatisfaction, as his older brother, you can��t act recklessly too. I know you��re not pleased with the idea of breaking up, but our Gu Family cannot have both an orphan and a widow as daughters-inw. That��s just uneptable. Trust me, after the New Year, one of your old ssmates is being transferred here. She��s highly educated and about your age..."

    "Dad. If you still want me to acknowledge you, stop talking about this. I��ve made up my mind, and I won��t change it. No matter how good the conditions are, if I don��t like her, it��s pointless. Please understand me." Gu Junming calmly hung up the phone.

    Gu Zishan could only sigh heavily, rubbing his swollen forehead on the other end of the line. Was heaven punishing him for divorcing his first wife amidst hardship? Now both sons ended up like this...

    Gu Junming turned back to Sun Chan with a smile: "We can only go back in the afternoon."

    "It��s okay." While he was on the call, Sun Chan was beside him and heard everything Gu Zishan said. She didn��t get upset since she was used to being unweed. As long as Gu Junming liked her, that was enough.

    While eating, Sun Chan asked: "Should I go?"

    Gu Junming looked at her expression, finding it hard not tough: "Of course you should go. Are you afraid of her?"

    "But we��ve already torn all pretense." Thest few times they met, Sun Chan had left Bai Fann no face at all. Therefore, she felt that if she went, most likely she wouldn��t be weed.

 Chapter 143 Encounter

    <h4>Chapter 143: Chapter 143 Encounter</h4><h4></h4>

    "I��m going because Wang Hu invited me, not because of Bai Fann, but if you��re not going, then I��m not going either. Let��s finish up and go home." Gu Junming served her some food. Sun Chan had stir-fried cabbage and tomatoes, with two chili peppers added, giving it a sour and spicy taste. She also made a potato sauce, which went well with rice.

    The ingredients were simple, but Gu Junming thought it tasted great, and he could eat another bowl of ricepared to being at home.

    Sun Chanughed, "Then I��ll go. After all, it��s her wedding that she��s worried about. What should we give as a wedding gift?"

    "Just give what you feel like. You��re the one managing the money." Heughed.

    Since Gu Junming came back, he had been giving her his sry to manage, and there was quite a bit of money in the savings book. Gu Junming rarely spent money, except for sending money home, buying cigarettes and alcohol for Gu Dongfang, he basically saved up everything. There was now almost two thousand yuan. It��s definitely a considerable amount, but Sun Chan didn��t n to spend it since she was earning enough from her business now.

    Sun Chan chuckled, "If we were just looking at Bai Fann, we��d give ten or eight yuan and be done with it, but your rtionship with Wang Hu is pretty good, so let��s give twenty."

    "Alright, as you wish, madam." He smiled and gave a mock military salute.

    Sun Chanughed and tapped Gu Junming on the shoulder, then started cleaning up the dishes.

    The two of them changed clothes and went out. Sun Chan was wearing a newly bought cashmere coat, pale pink, which matched her fair, jade-like face. Gu Junming wore a military overcoat, looking heroic and charming, very fitting.

    The two chatted andughed as they headed to the wedding venue. On the way, a small car brushed past them. Gu Junming quickly realized how close they were and hurriedly pulled her aside, the sharp sound of the car engine screeching by, as it stopped right next to Gu Junming��s side.

    "Are you okay?" Sun Chan nervously tugged at Gu Junming, looking him up and down.

    Gu Junming waved his hand, "I��m fine." His eyes nced at the small car, thinking it��s quite unruly for such a narrow road to have cars passing.

    But he wasn��t nning on making a fuss, yet the person in the car was angry, opened the door, and came down.

    It was a girl in her twenties, with long hair, wearing a long white coat, tall and slender, her eyes disdainful, looking at them with an arrogant face.

    "Have you no eyes? How do you walk?"

    Sun Chan frowned, taking a nce at the girl in front of her. She was quite pretty, how could she be so impolite?

    Gu Junming willingly didn��t want to argue with the girl, turned around intending to leave.

    The girl quickly came over and grabbed the two, "Hey, I��m talking to you! Are you just going to walk away like that?"

    Sun Chan felt angry, forcefully pushing her hand away, "Don��t be unreasonable, this is relentless!"

    "You dare hit me? Do you know who I am?"

    Sun Chan sneered, "No matter who you are, you have to be reasonable in your actions. Driving your car in such a tight spot, almost hitting people, without apologizing, still holding us up relentlessly? Are you some high official��s offspring trying to bully us?"

    The girl had never been treated like this since childhood. Her eyes widened, shouting loudly, "What did you say? I��m warning you, apologize quickly, or I won��t be polite!"

    "I did nothing wrong, why apologize? I won��t be afraid of you." Sun Chan stared directly at her.

    The girl snorted, "You pathetic! You think you��re worth dealing with me?"

    Sun Chan wasn��t angry but calmly said, "Our country believes in equality for all. You think just because you have money you can bullymon folk at will? How about we find a traffic cop right now and see who��s right!"

    The girl went to grab Sun Chan��s cor, raising her hand to p down, "I��m bullying you, so what!"

    Sun Chan quickly backed away, the girl exerted too much force, stumbled, as there was all ice underfoot, and sat down on the ground, groaning in pain, tears dropping instantly, with the inside of her pants tearing with a ripping sound, splitting the crotch. Onlookers covered their mouthsughing.

    The girl��s face turned blue with anger and stood up, trying to kick Sun Chan, but Gu Junming stopped her, "Stop!"

    The new pants were ruined,ughed at in public, fury burned in her chest. She looked up, seeing Sun Chan standing aside, fingers trembling. Sun Chan was actuallyughing, still daring tough!

    "Wretch! Who told you tough?"

    Sun Chan sternly said, "Why are you insulting me? Let everyone judge! You recklessly drove your car, almost hit people, came down pompous, yelling, hitting people. What more do you want?"

    The crowd also criticized, this young girl was too excessive. The girl cared less and rushed over to fight again.

    Gu Junming, who had been standing there, suddenly had a sh of murderous intent in his eyes, the girl shuddered involuntarily, dared not bully anymore.

    After thinking it over, her hand almost poked at Gu Junming��s nose, "Since you��re in the military, leave your name. I��ll have my dad deal with you! My dad is a general, you won��t have a good oue!"

    Gu Junming initially had a cold expression, but hearing her say this, a smile suddenly appeared at the corner of his mouth, yet matched with chilling eyes, making it extremely intimidating.

    The girl had a moment of panic, then thought this poor guy was scared senseless? Or intended to fight back desperately against her? She retreated a few steps.

    "What, afraid to say your name? Then admit your mistake properly! Young miss will forgive you!"

    Gu Junming sneered, "I know plenty of generals, but none are as arrogant as you. I��m curious who your father is. I wish to report above, to pay attention to the image of military families."

    The girl was stifled. Had the nerve to challenge me? She looked at her watch, then stomped her foot.

    "Enough, young miss is busy, no time to waste words with you. Just wait! Aren��t you just an impoverished soldier from X City? I��ll definitely find you, make you retire after the New Year!" She said this, got in the car, and drove off.

    Gu Junming waspletely unconcerned, walking forward with Sun Chan.

    Sun Chan said, "Was she lying?"

    "Unlikely, I saw the inspection-free emblem inside the car. What she said might be true."

    "Ah! If that��s the case... Will it affect you?" Sun Chan felt a bit fearful, fearing it might cause trouble for him.

    Gu Junmingughed, "You think the army is run for some person? Rest assured, it��s not that serious."

    If this matter blew up, the ones in trouble would only be this arrogant, abusing official cars for private use girl and her father. His eyes nced at the car��s license te and memorized the number.

    They simply treated this incident as a minor episode, didn��t take it seriously, and Sun Chan never expected this event would be a turning point in her destiny.

 Chapter 144 Bai Fanglan Gets Married

    <h4>Chapter 144: Chapter 144 Bai Fann Gets Married</h4><h4></h4>

    Bai Fann��s wedding was held in a hotel near the military district, and it was quite lively. Looking around, more than half were wearing military uniforms, and the atmosphere was very solemn. Many leaders attended, most of whom knew Gu Junming, so naturally, greetings were exchanged upon meeting.

    Wang Hu was over there greeting guests, and upon seeing Gu Junming, he was very warm. Although he was the groom, apart from a boutonniere on his chest, he wore nothing special, still d in a military coat.

    He enthusiastically shook hands with Gu Junming, "When are you returning to the quake zone?"

    "After the New Year. Are you going back?" Gu Junming replied.

    "Yes. Isn��t it because of the New Year? I need to visit the soldiers staying in the disaster zone." Wang Hu specializes in ideological and political work, and such tasks are indeed more suitable for him. But this cannotpare to Gu Junming��s credentials.

    He knew Gu Junming had earned more merits this time, feeling a burning urgency in his heart; if this continued, he would indeed lose. Even Yan Kai received a third-ss merit this time, plus the previous aplishment at Xiong��er Ridge, leaving Wang Hu at a disadvantage. Thinking of this, he lost all mood for the wedding.

    The two talked briefly about the troop arrangements. Sun Chan didn��t speak, just smiled faintly, youthful and radiant.

    Wang Hu nced, found her quite pleasing to the eye, and nced again, meeting Sun Chan��s gaze. Feeling a bit ill at ease, he realized staring wasn��t appropriate. She meant nothing by it, but worried others might misinterpret. After saying a few words to Gu Junming, he shifted his attention elsewhere.

    After Wang Hu left, Sun Chan said to Gu Junming, "He doesn��t like me, does he? His eyes were fierce."

    "No, he doesn��t know you. He��s the same with everyone. Cold, but actually, he��s okay." Gu Junming didn��t dwell on it, holding her hand, heading to the registration desk, where someone waited there to write down guest names and collect gifts.

    Sun Chan put the money in a red envelope into the bag. They hurried to catch a ride; if not for Gu Zishan and others noting, Gu Junming wouldn��t have attended, intending to leave shortly.

    Bai Chuan was greeting some veteran cadres when he suddenly saw the pair and became instantly displeased, but greeted them with a smile anyway.

    "Isn��t this Gu Junming? Heard you��ve done well in the quake zone."

    "Thank you for your concern, sir." Gu Junming replied indifferently.

    "Haven��t seen my granddaughter, have you? Come, she��d be delighted to see you!"

    "No, it��s inconvenient for me now. She must be busy." Gu Junming said dryly and led Sun Chan away without exchanging more words.

    Bai Chuan thought to himself, doesn��t know how to cultivate rtionships, yet can be a battalionmander? Is the troop short-staffed? He looked down on Gu Junming from the bottom of his heart, thinking with Wang Hu��s family background, it was right for his granddaughter not to marry him! Moreover, this promotion required significant effort; he must ensure Wang Hu rises, having thought out a n for Gu Junming.

    Bai Chuan constantly watched, this time determined to find an opportunity to pin down Gu Junming! Toss him into a barren corner to endure! Let him be a deputy battalionmander for life! Bai Chuan felt smug as he walked away withrge strides.

    Meanwhile, Bai Fann was extremely unhappy, sitting in front of a mirror sulking.

    As the bride, she was well-dressed, in a red coat and a bright red scarf, sitting there with the trendiest red flowers on her head, someone brushing her face with red rouge.

    Bai Fann��s face rarely saw heavy makeup, bright red lipstick making her look even more charming, surrounded by several colleagues making jokes, yet Bai Fann simply couldn��t cheer up.

    Last night, Wang Hu called to say after the wedding he��d leave on a mission, leaving Bai Fann to care for the elders at home. She thought it over; being a military spouse, she couldn��t be like ordinary civilians and agreed, saying nothing further.

    But then Wang Hu immediately told her that the gift money received at the wedding was to be collectively arranged by his parents, and his sry wouldn��t be handed over for the time being, at least not until three yearster, when they had children.

    Bai Fann was instantly furious, clenching her fists and gritting her teeth, she demanded, "Whose idea is this, your parents�� or yours?"

    It��s another sign of Wang Hu��sck of emotional intelligence, saying such things the night before the wedding. He genuinely didn��t see it as an issue; Bai Fann wasn��tcking money, her parents were easygoing, so who managed the finances didn��t matter? Since they lived together anyway.

    Upon her inquiry, he said, "Both my parents�� and my idea. You aren��t considering quitting your job, so why handle this? I��ve seen my mom��s ounting; it��splex, dealing with social exchanges and the like, and you might not have the time or energy. Let��s leave it at that. It��ste; you should sleep early, there��s a wedding to host tomorrow." He hung up without soothing her, going straight to sleep.

    Bai Fann listened to the dial tone on the phone, stunned for a while before sweeping everything off the table onto the floor, hating so much her nails dug into her flesh, eyes zing, wished she could storm into Wang Hu��s house causing a scene, cancel the wedding, let them all go to hell!

    But she couldn��t, already registered, any further uproar would mean divorce, not cancetion, and how disappointed would her grandfather be? She couldn��t manage this consequence.

    Now, although sitting there being beautified, listening to auspicious words, inside she felt like dying.

    Soon, Wang Hu entered with people, after amotion among the group bringing him in.

    Everyone joked with the bride, "Is the groom here?"

    Bai Fann truly had no mood until Wang Hu lifted her to go outside, forcing a smile. The wedding procedure was simple, after speeches from leaders and parents, the banquetmenced.

    Bai Fann sat there in a daze, wondering, is this my marriage?

    Wang Hu rarely smiled either, pondering how to turn the tide?

    When the couple toasted at the table with Sun Chan and Gu Junming, seeing the increasingly beautiful Sun Chan, Bai Fann smiled faintly, her face indifferent.

    Wang Hu raised his ss, "Thank you foring. May you both marry soon."

    Sun Chan and Gu Junming exchanged auspicious words and took a sip.

    Originally thought to be wine, it turned out to be water.

    Sun Chan nced at Gu Junming, her smile curling warmly.

    Just as she was about to leave, Bai Fann leaned close to her ear and whispered, "You bumpkin, just wait and see. The Gu Family won��t let you in. Want to rise above your station? Dream on!" With those words, she walked away.

 Chapter 145 New Marriage

    <h4>Chapter 145: Chapter 145 New Marriage</h4><h4></h4>

    Sun Chan blinked, thinking to herself, what kind of situation is this? She didn��t really take Bai Fann��s words seriously, just wondered if she might have had too much to drink. What kind of bride acts like that? Bai Fann went off with Wang Hu to another table, Wang Hu, needless to say, looked dazed, and Bai Fann had the same indifferent expression. Her smile looked as if it was painted on.

    Bai Chuan was anxious inside, wondering what was up with his granddaughter. How immature!

    Sun Chan recalled what she��d just said and couldn��t help but smile. How much must Bai Fann resent her?

    Gu Junming curiously asked, "What��s up?"

    "Nothing, let��s go."

    The two were in a hurry to catch the bus, so they left without eating after toasting. Father Wang and Mrs. Wang didn��t know him well, so they just exchanged a few polite words and saw them off.

    The gifts they had prepared to take back were temporarily left at Guihua��s inn, so the two went there first.

    Guihua quickly stopped her: "I knew you were heading back, so I specially prepared this. Take it back with you!"

    Besides the fruits and clothes Sun Chan had prepared earlier, Guihua brought out a box. Each bottle was over a foot tall, made of dark green ss, with a clear oil inside that looked high-end.

    "This is olive oil; take it home for the elderly. It can be used in sds or stir-fries."

    In the nies, this was quite a rare item. It wasn��t the most expensive thing, but the thoughtfulness was rare. Sun Chan looked at Guihua in surprise.

    Guihuaughed and said, "I got this to honor your inws. Aren��t you going to thank me? Take it with you!"

    "Yes, thank you, Sister Guihua!" Sun Chan said with a smile as she epted the gift.

    Their rtionship was good, and it would seem awkward to refuse any longer.

    Yang Liu also brought out some dried wood ear mushrooms and shiitake mushrooms: "These were picked while I was working at the sanatorium, and they��re delicious. Take them back for the elders."

    "Thank you so much!" The countryside didn��t reallyck these, but it was her thoughtful gesture, so Sun Chan dly epted them with a smile.

    Gu Junmingughed and said, "My parents are getting quite the deal now."

    "Aren��t they! You better treat our Sun Chan well. We��re all her family!" Guihuaughed.

    They chatted and joked for a while, and Guihua walked them out a long way, until she could no longer see them, then sighed and returned home.

    In past years, she would also be busy preparing to visit her inws; seeing the two of them so happy made her feel a bit envious. She thought to herself, forget it, better focus on the business!

    Gu Junming and Sun Chany in the sleeper berth of the train, thinking about the couple Bai Fann and Wang Hu; they both seemed so expressionless. Getting married was supposed to be a joyous asion, but they made it feel like someone owed them a hundred yuan, which made them chuckle.

    Gu Junming peeked down from his upper berth and asked, "What are you thinking about?"

    "Oh, I was thinking about how Wang Hu and Bai Fann both had such expressions, without any hint of joy."

    Gu Junming hadn��t noticed it before, but now that he thought about it, indeed, the two didn��t seem very happy.

    "Every couple is different. Wang Hu... he��s a bit more stoic." What he wanted to say was dull, but since Bai Fann liked him, it was fine. Although the train wasn��t cold at all, Gu Junming still covered her with his military coat in the middle of the night.

    "Be careful not to catch a cold. Hurry and sleep, we have a long way to go in the morning."

    Sun Chan smiled, and when he went back up, she pretended to check the time and pulled his hand. Gu Junming felt a tingle in his heart, the sensation of her fingertips grazing the back of his hand kept him awake for a long time.

    The two felt sweet in their hearts, but newlyweds Wang Hu and Bai Fann were not as fortunate.

    After a busy day, they returned to their new room. Mrs. Wang came over to say a few words to Bai Fann, speaking kindly, but her intention was clear. Since they would be living together, she would be in charge, and she took the wedding money, telling her not to think too much.

    Bai Fann smiled and said, "It��s okay, Mom. Wang Hu told me about it, and I don��t mind. I��m clueless; it��s better for you to manage the household."

    Mrs. Wang was pleased to pat her hand, "It��s good that you understand. I��m just waiting to hold a grandchild." And then she left.

    Bai Fann��s face dropped immediately, and she didn��t want to say a word. She sat on the bed upstairs, overwhelmed with emotions. She felt like she might have to live a sorrowful life forever, with an indifferent father-inw, a controlling mother-inw, and a loveless husband.

    Wang Hu also came upstairs, and after washing up, they exchanged a nce, feeling somewhat awkward.

    "You must be exhausted, let��s sleep early," Bai Fann knew if she didn��t speak, he probably wouldn��t talk at all that night.

    Wang Hu simply grunted, turned off the lights, and they both got under their respective quilts, lying down together.

    After a long silence, Wang Hu finally put his hand on Bai Fann��s shoulder and leaned over.

    Bai Fann felt a bit nervous; she had no experience, and Wang Hu was clueless as well. After some fumbling, they finally consummated the marriage.

    Bai Fann thought it was rather uninteresting besides the pain, and Wang Hu was not a romantic. Afterward, he quickly fell into a deep sleep.

    Shey there staring at the ceiling,forting herself. No matter what, I married up. Which of my colleagues wouldn��t envy me? I live in a detached house, own a car. They��ll never achieve this.

    Even if Sun Chan married Gu Junming, so what? They can��t have a house as nice as this one. Gu Junming and his father don��t get along, they can only live in the small house allocated by the military. You��re still not as well off as I am.

    Feeling a sense of pride, she soon fell asleep.

    The next morning, Sun Chan and Gu Junming got off the train, transferring a few times by bus, and finally finding a local viger selling mountain goods by horse-drawn cart, heading toward Gu Junming��s hometown.

    Sun Chan, exhausted from the past two days, leaned tightly against his chest, dozing off in the innermost part of the cart.

    Gu Junming unbuttoned his coat and ced her against his chest, making the petite woman incredibly endearing.

    Just as the cart reached the vige entrance, the sound of a tractor chugging was heard from behind. The road was too narrow, so the cart driver quickly pulled over to let the other vehicle pass.

    Someone on the tractor recognized Gu Junming and Sun Chan and immediately waved, "You��re back?"

    It was none other than Gu Junming��s sister, Wang Shufen.

    After months apart, she looked somewhat thinner, wearing a ck cotton jacket, her cheeks red, and a green headscarf. Her eyebrows and eyshes covered in ayer of white frost.

    Gu Junming and Sun Chan hastily greeted her, and Wang Shufenughed, "We��ll talk when we get back, you don��t need to get off!"

    As they spoke, the tractor chugged past.

    Sun Chan asked, "What��s big sis up to?"

 Chapter 146 Father and Son Talk

    <h4>Chapter 146: Chapter 146 Father and Son Talk</h4><h4></h4>

    Gu Junming frowned slightly, "My sister is probably out making money again."

    This sister has always been thrifty and responsible. She never misses a chance to earn a little money, even though he sends money home on time every month, she still wants to save some for the kids. She��s been trying hard to save money.

    Sun Chan nodded, "Elder sister is a good person, such a pity that Ding Quan is so bad."

    "Don��t mention him," Gu Junming said tly, "Fortunately, they��re divorced now. Otherwise, I��d have to hit him every time Ie back."

    "You can��t do that, you are a soldier, how can you hit someone for no reason? Better find a corner and beat him up there," Sun Chanughed.

    Gu Junming held Sun Chan��s hand, "What are you worried about? In the vige, it��s all about whose fist is the hardest. If I hadn��t been away in the military for so long, I don��t think Ding Quan would dare treat my sister like that. Families without sons in the countryside all endure this kind of suffering, or else the countryside wouldn��t be so male-centered."

    Sun Chan thought about it, and indeed, in her past life living in the vige, those families with many sons were never bullied.

    Then Gu Junming added, "But it doesn��t matter to me. Having a daughter is fine too."

    Sun Chan blushed and shot him a re, how indiscreet!

    Gu Junming, however, felt his heart skip a beat. This little girl was quite cute when she was angry.

    Traveling by cart, they were much slower than Wang Shufen, so by the time they arrived home, Wang Shufen along with Father Wang and Mrs. Wang, was already outside with Ding Kang to wee them. Seeing the two of them walk in with big bags, everyone was delighted.

    "You��re back! My uncle��s back!" Ding Kang was very excited.

    "Did the long journey tire you out?" Mrs. Wang quickly walked a few steps and took Sun Chan��s hand.

    Sun Chan smiled and said, "I��m fine."

    "Come inside and warm up! I didn��t know you wereing today, so I didn��t prepare anything special. Tomorrow morning, I��ll kill a chicken!"

    Sun Chan said shyly, "No need to trouble yourself, we��re all family."

    "It��s no trouble." The olddy was very fond of Sun Chan, and continued to speak to her with a smile.

    Over there, Ding Kang had already started ying with his uncle. Ding Kang had grown much taller and bolder in the few months they hadn��t seen each other. The two practiced wrestling in the snow in the yard, and in no time, Ding Kai was tossed into a snow pit by Gu Junming. Everyoneughed.

    Wang Shufen helplessly said, "Stop fooling around! You��ve juste back, what if you catch a cold?"

    "I won��t, I��m not cold at all!" Ding Kangughed merrily.

    The whole family went inside, and Wang Shufen and the olddy started preparing a meal. Sun Chan wanted to help but was firmly sent back.

    "You just rest well! You can cook tomorrow. There��s nothing good to eat, just make do for a day."

    Sun Chan could only sit by the edge of the kang, while Father Wang and Gu Junming chatted for a while about military matters. Although the old man was no longer there, he always kept an eye on the military��s development, and his insights were quite remarkable.

    "By the way! Did your family agree to your rtionship?"

    Gu Junming smiled faintly, "Though things weren��t running smoothly, my grandfather supported it, so it��s fine. As for my father, I stopped caring about his opinion long ago."

    "No need to listen to him! Passing up such a good daughter-inw, only someone as foolish as Gu Zishan would do such a thing. Having power and wealth, would that make you happy? Look at Wang Guihua, so shallow, only favoring the youngest son, and see how he turned out? And he still wants his son to inherit the Gu Family, what a joke!"

    Sun Chan helped wash the red dates outside, pretending not to hear.

    Gu Junming said, "I don��t talk much about their affairs, and in the future, Sun Chan and I won��t be living with the Gu Family. In short, this thing is pretty much settled, Sun Chan will only be eighteen after the New Year, so we��re not in a hurry." He didn��t care at all about not inheriting the Gu Family��s wealth, nothing to brag about. He could certainly support his wife on his own.

    "Hmm, how��s your job going?"

    "For this position I��m striving for, there are two others, each with their own strengths..."

    He briefly exined the situation.

    Father Wang smoked a pipe, and after listening, said; "I won��t say much else, just be very careful about Bai Chuan. Wang Hu is now his grandson-inw, so by all means, he��ll help him. Originally, he never liked you, and if he wants to look for a chance to get at you, it��s possible."

    Gu Junming frowned and said, "Allpetition is fair and just."

    "That��s where you don��t understand. That��s just the kind of person Bai Chuan is. How did I get ousted back then? Wasn��t it because he exposed my rtionship with a nurse? Though times were turbulent back then, sometimes you had to do what you must to survive. I reported him, he reported me. But like Bai Chuan, to hold on and push it to higher-ups, that��s rare. Once he decides to ruin you, he��ll stop at nothing until he��s sessful."

    Saying this made him full of anger. That nurse had a fianc�� who was hisrade, their rtionship was good, and after he sacrificed himself, he looked after her more and exchanged letters several times. Who would��ve thought Bai Chuan noticed early on and kept several letters for ten years! Then during the critical moment ofpeting with Wang Fu, he took them out, not using him of wrongdoing, but the vague nature of it made people wonder what was going on.

    Having an affair behind the wife��s back?

    At that time, such an usation was quite severe. Bai Chuan pushed it up to the top in one go, letters as evidence, and with the parties involved deceased, there was no way to verify, and that��s how he lost the opportunity and carried the stigma of seducing a friend��s girlfriend, returning to the countryside, ruining a lifetime. By the time things were cleared up, he was old, the old man was in poor health, feeling unable to serve the country anymore, hence declining to go back, but the grudge against Bai Chuan was deep.

    Gu Junming had known some of this before, but today he learned the full story.

    Sun Chan, not knowing this before, now heard the old man speak and frowned silently, surprised by how excessive Bai Fann��s grandfather was. No wonder the rtionship between Gu Junming and him had always been lukewarm.

    The old man said, "This person kept my letters for ten years, imagine how scheming he is? During that movement, he swayed left and right, being friendly with one today and someone else the next day, being a turncoat for over ten years, yet came out unscathed, even got promoted. How many people did he harm? Besides that spineless Gu Zishan, who didn��t look down on this bastard?"

    Hearing his own father being scolded, Gu Junming felt no embarrassment at all. His father was indeed a disgrace in this regard and he couldn��t me Father Wang for speaking ill of him.

 Chapter 147: Go to the Door

    <h4>Chapter 147: Chapter 147: Go to the Door</h4><h4></h4>

    Sun Chan thought for a moment and said, "If he really wants Wang Hu to take over, he might use the same trick."

    "That��s possible. Anyway, we should be careful," the old man said.

    For a moment, the three of them fell silent. Nothing was as important as Gu Junming��s job. There was no mood for chatting and joking.

    It wasn��t until Ding Kang ran in to y that the old man began to smile again.

    Gu Junming said, "Dad, don��t worry. Everything I do is aboveboard; I��m not afraid of his investigation."

    "That��s the best. We don��t harm others, but we can��t let others harm us! Still, it��s best to be on guard; that guy��s not well-intentioned. At his age, he still won��t retire, thinking he can be a leader his whole life? Your dad is bad enough, but his character isn��t even as good as your dad��s!" The old man couldn��t stand Bai Chuan one bit.

    At this moment, the olddy called out, "Wash your hands for dinner!"

    Sun Chan hurried to help set the table. There weren��t many dishes avable in winter, but it was clear that the meal was quite sumptuous: sauerkraut stew, shredded potatoes, seaweed sd, and arge bowl of mushroom stew with vermicelli. Just looking at it, you could tell it would taste great.

    Everyone sat down and started eating in a lively atmosphere.

    Gu Junming then asked Wang Shufen what she had been up to earlier.

    Wang Shufenughed and said, "Isn��t there someone getting married in the town? I went to help out, made some quilts and new clothes, and earned some pocket money."

    "Didn��t I send you money?" Gu Junming gave his nephew a big serving of mushrooms. "Sister, working on the farm is hard enough as it is; you don��t need to do anything else. What would I do if you wore yourself out?"

    Sun Chan also said, "Yes, exactly, sister-inw. Sewing is especially tiring on the eyes and fingers."

    In her previous life, she mended clothes and bedding for the whole family; by her twenties, her eyes were already as worn out as an old woman��s.

    Wang Shufen hurriedly replied with a smile, "Don��t misunderstand! I really was just helping out, only worked two or three days. It��s mostly because we��re neighbors and it would be bad to refuse if someonees asking for help."

    Gu Junming smiled and said, "It��s not that I don��t want you to work! I��m just concerned about your health."

    "I��m fine. I��ll make the bedding for your and Sun Chan��s wedding too."

    Sun Chan was eating seaweed when she heard this and started coughing in a hurry, "No need, sister... cough, cough..."

    "No need to be polite, I��ll make it; you just need to focus on preparing for the wedding," Wang Shufen said with a smile.

    She felt really embarrassed, and everyoneughed. The young woman hadn��t even married into the family yet, but everyone already considered her one of their own.

    Mrs. Wang was very fond of this girl and kept putting food into her bowl.

    Though the old man didn��t talk much with Sun Chan, he was also smiling.

    Just then, footsteps were heard in the courtyard. A middle-aged woman in a colorful cotton jacket walked in. Seeing who it was through the ss, the whole family��s expression soured. Sun Chan thought to herself, it must be Ding Quan��s mother.

    Wang Shufen tightly held onto Ding Kang��s hand, looking very anxious, "Why is she here?"

    "Don��t be afraid! She��s no longer your mother-inw, just focus on eating your meal!" Mrs. Wang said, looking at her husband.

    The woman had already walked in, her sharp face wearing a sycophantic smile, "Eating? Inws?"

    Father Wang said nothing, his face frosty.

    Mrs. Wang sneered, "You��re divorced; what inws?! Seems like your memory is failing!"

    "Sigh! I��m here to apologize, aren��t I? My Ding Quan has been thinking about Shufen for the past few months. Isn��t it almost New Year? He wants to bring her back. Shufen, after holding a grudge for a few months, hasn��t your anger subsided? Come back with me."

    Father Wang said nothing, taking a sip from his cup.

    For months now, Ding Quan had been causing trouble off and on, utterly shameless. Now it seems he thinks he��s powerless, so he sent his mother instead?

    Wang Shufen had long since given up talking to this venomous woman, not being one to enjoy arguments, she kept her head down and said nothing.

    The woman tried to cozy up to Gu Junming, but he didn��t even raise an eyelid, merely serving Sun Chan more food.

    "Oh my, this youngdy is pretty, is she Mingzi��s partner?"

    Another moment of silence.

    Sun Chan had heard that this woman was vicious. Wang Shufen almost got worked to death in those few years she was married. Sometimes they wouldn��t even give her food, and if she was disliked, they��d make her sleep in the grinder shed.

    So she wouldn��t acknowledge her at all.

    The woman was infuriated, cursing internally with countless vulgarities. What ungrateful folks they were! An old woman like her was treated so rudely. Wang Shufen used to be as meek as dough, but after going back to her family��s home, did she be strong?

    But ultimately, she dared not erupt, instead smiling as she looked at Ding Kang, "Kangkang has grown so much,e, let Granny hold you?"

    "I��m not going back!" Ding Kang shouted, "You always hit me and hit my mom, never let us eat. We��re not going back!"

    With those words, the woman instantly fumed, "Wang Shufen, how could you say such things to a child? What good wille from teaching him like this? Never mind, I won��t waste words, you needn��te back, but my grandson must return for Chinese New Year."

    Seeing that she��d been here a while and no one had given her a good face, she couldn��t hold back any longer. Her objective was the grandchild after all, she had to bring him back.

    "Come home with me!" Her action was swift, darting forward to grab Ding Kang��s arm. With a yank, Ding Kang nearly fell to the ground, catching himself on the table, knocking two dishes to the floor.

    Ding Kang cried out in pain, Wang Shufen frantically rushed to snatch her child back, "You never cared before, and now you have the nerve to want my child? I won��t give him to you!"

    "You vile woman, I��m your mother-inw, he��s our Ding Family��s seed, why should I give him to you?"

    Gu Junming and Mrs. Wang blocked the woman, stopping her from pulling any further, while Wang Shufen struggled to reim her son. Ding Kang, more understanding now, didn��t cry, only gazed at his grandmother with hateful eyes.

    "I��d rather die than go back with you; you��re all bad people!"

    The woman simply sat on the ground, making a scene, "At my old age, to be beaten by my own daughter-inw, I don��t want to live anymore! My grandson doesn��t recognize me, and it��s all because of you Wang Family, you shameless barren lineage, I won��t let this go!" The Wang Family only had one daughter, Wang Shufen, with no sons, so there were indeed those who would call them "barren" behind their back, but this was the first time someone dared to say it to their face.

    Father Wang was sitting on the heated brick bed, but suddenly smashed the cup in his hand, grabbed the feather duster at his back, and swung it at the woman.

    "You don��t want to live? Then I��ll make it happen; I��ll beat you to death, make you pay for your life, and let you carry on your tantrums in our home!"

 Chapter 148: The Great Chaos

    <h4>Chapter 148: Chapter 148: The Great Chaos</h4><h4></h4>

    The old man wielded a feather duster and blindly struck the woman.

    He had been to the battlefield and killed people, and though his body wasn��t what it used to be, he was more than enough to handle someone like Ding Quan��s mother. Soon, the woman was beaten until she cried out, her face and neck covered in bruises, running away quickly.

    "Someone��s killed! Help! Old Wang Family has killed someone!"

    The old man wanted to continue hitting, but Gu Junming rushed forward and snatched the feather duster away.

    "Dad, calm down, your health is important!" Wang Shufen also supported her old father.

    "I��m fine! That damned old hag bullied your sister back then, now she��s got the nerve toe asking for the child, I��ll beat her to death!" The old man shouted as he grabbed a chair and charged to the door, throwing it.

    Though the woman ran fast, she was still hit on the back of her heel and fell t on her face.

    But she dared not shout in pain, hurriedly crawling out, still shouting the Wang Family was bullying her.

    The old man leaned against the door frame, coughing violently.

    Sun Chan and Mrs. Wang quickly went over to support the old man.

    Sun Chan said, "Sir, why don��t you sit down first."

    The old man really wanted to chase after and hit her, but since she was his future daughter-inw, he agreed.

    Mrs. Wang handed over a cup of water: "At this age, why are you still getting angry, not caring about your health?"

    "What a shameless woman! But why is she suddenly wanting the child now?" the old man frowned and said, "Didn��t she say she��d ignore it for life?"

    Wang Shufen held her son with one hand, sighed, "She��s probably trying to use the child to pressure me into remarrying. She knows my brother has a family in the city, so she��s ying this trick."

    "Dream on!" Father Wang said coldly, "Keep an eye on this child, absolutely can��t let the Ding Family take him. With their kind of character, sending the child over would only make him suffer!"

    Wang Shufen nodded, feeling deeply guilty, all because she insisted on marrying Ding Quan despite being deceived by him, causing the whole family distress.

    Sun Chanforted, "Everyone, don��t feel bad. Once we settle in the city, you can bring Kangkang along."

    "What are you saying?"

    Sun Chan smiled and said, "I��m selling some fruit now and nning to go back to school; then, Big Sister can help me."

    Wang Shufen also wanted to enter the city. The schools there taught well and could avoid the harassment from Ding Quan��s family. But she was divorced with a child, which was a burden wherever she went.

    Sun Chan said at this moment, "Big Sister, don��t be shy, if the business expands, we��ll need more hands. It��s better to use family members. Then Kangkang can also get a good education."

    "Really? I��ll definitely work hard. I don��t have any other grievances, just hoping for Kangkang��s well-being." Wang Shufen said gratefully.

    Mrs. Wangughed, "We��ll talk about thister, let��s eat. Tidying up, don��t let that old hag affect our mood."

    Wang Shufen and Sun Chan cleaned up the dishes on the ground, and everyone continued to eat, quickly forgetting that incident.

    After dinner, Sun Chan proactively washed the dishes.

    Gu Junming remembered to take out the things he brought. The Wang Family elders were certainly happy, not caring whether the things were valuable or not. It was a good thing they always kept in mind. After all, not being biological, who would��ve thought after all these years, he��d still be so filial.

    The atmosphere at Wang Family was good, but Ding Quan��s family was not.

    The grandson wasn��t brought back, the old mother was beaten, and Ding Quan was anxious, scratching his head.

    "I think this won��t work out, don��t hope for it. Your wife doesn��t want to live with you now, better find someone else!"

    Ding Quan was somewhat annoyed, "Who can be with me like this? No money at home, and divorced."

    "What do you want? Wasn��t it you who proposed the divorce before? Now you regret it, but it��s useless."

    "Find another wife for your son!" Mrs. Ding wiped her face with a towel, gritting her teeth in pain. Wasn��t it said that the old man from Wang Family was injured on the battlefield? How could he still hit so fiercely!

    Ding Fu peeled corn with droopy eyelids, toozy to care about his son��s affairs. The family was originally poor, marrying a wife was costly, better live this way.

    But Ding Quan said, "No way! I must get the child back!"

    Mrs. Ding frowned, "I think forget it, they aren��t giving him anyway; we have no money to raise him. When I went there, they were eating with several dishes! Our family has salted vegetables every day! Your son, she��ll raise him well."

    "I don��t care, anyhow, my son must be brought over!" He stormed into the small room angrily.

    The Ding Family elders only thought their son wanted to use the child to force Wang Shufen to return, but actually, Ding Quan had different ideas.

    He heard from someone outside the vige while drinking that boys at least sold for three or five thousand. Ding Quan was now so poor he��s practically urinating blood, with that amount, he could live well, find another wife, wouldn��t that be great! Children can be born again.

    So he tossed and turned on the kang, unable to sleep, thinking how he could steal the child back.

    Gu Junming could return, this was no easy matter.

    The Ding Family was unhappy, and so was Su Miao.

    She had returned two days ago, having a row with her parents.

    Before leaving, she promised her parents that if she didn��t make progress in the city, she��de home, find someone, and get married. She had been out for several months, except for a temporary job that Gu Junming helped find in the cafeteria, she hadn��t found any other work. Living off her savings, she��d spent all the money her parents had given. Of course, the money Zhao Yingjun gave, she dared not use. She nned to go back to the city after spring.

    Still, she needed to rely on Gu Junming to find a job for her!

    Su Minjian, though a farmer who hadn��t traveled far, was quite clear-headed and said to his daughter, "Su Miao, you��re not young anymore, don��t think about those outside fantasies. What does that have to do with you! Others live in buildings, drive cars, eat gourmet food, that��s their business, has nothing to do with youing from a vige! While I��m the vige head, quickly find a goodd to marry. This is settled, don��t mention going to the city anymore!"

    Su Miaoy on the kang crying, "I don��t want to be a farmer, and I don��t want to marry a mud leg!"

    "Shut up! You��re no celestial being! Barely literate, can��t make a go of it in the city! The city and the countryside are totally different! A dozen years ago, going into the city needed an introduction letter, not everyone could enter! Better not dream, I don��t agree with you going to the city! Just bringing trouble to Su Jinxiu!"

    Upon hearing her father mention Su Junxiu, Su Miao grew more annoyed, throwing a pillow off the kang, covering her ears.

    "I won��t listen, I won��t listen, I won��t marry a countryside man!"

    "You looking for a beating?" Su Minjian stood up wanting to enter the room to hit her but was stopped by Ding Qiuyue.

 Chapter 149 Shameless Su Miao

    <h4>Chapter 149: Chapter 149 Shameless Su Miao</h4><h4></h4>

    "Can��t you just talk to the child kindly?" She felt for her daughter, but didn��t know what to say.

    After all, what her husband said was exactly what she was thinking. All she could say was, "The New Year ising, let��s keep it peaceful. What��s the point in fighting every day?"

    "This girl��s heart has gone wild. What are you saying? Aren��t you a countryside girl? Don��t you want to marry a countryside guy? Do you really think you��re that special? Let me tell you, we can��t ignore you anymore! If this continues, you��ll just go down the wrong path! I��ll talk to Aunt Four immediately to introduce someone for you. Ideally, you��ll get married right after the New Year!"

    Aunt Four is the vige��s professional matchmaker, quite famous.

    It��s quite simple for young people in the vige to find a match. They just meet up, make sure they don��t find each other unpleasant, and then discuss the bride price. Some even decide after just one meeting.

    So Su Minjian decided, his daughter��s situation must be settled after the New Year. Once she��s married off, it��s no longer his worry.

    Su Miao felt like her heart was stuffed with straw, the turmoil indescribable.

    And there was even more chaos, as Sun Jinxiu and Zhao Yingjun came this afternoon!

    They should havee earlier, but Zhao Yingjun had overtime at work, so they were dyed until now.

    Su Junxiu hugged the child, wrapped tightly, but the child still seemed to have a cold. Zhao Yingjun med her for not taking good care of the child. She was infuriated. It was you who insisted oning here, ignoring things on the way, and now you��re ming me!

    Zhao Yingjun arrived at the Su Family, pushed the door open, and walked in energetically: "Big brother! Sister-inw, we��re here!"

    The Su Family was startled and quickly weed them: "Why did youe!"

    Zhao Yingjun is a leader in the city, back then when Su Jinxiu married him, it shocked the whole vige. So, they were particrly warm to Zhao Yingjun. He looked around the inside of the house, not showing any dissatisfaction. After all, the Su Family��s conditions were top-notch in the vige. The vige chief, with plenty of benefits, having an only daughter, wouldn��t becking.

    Ding Qiuyue greeted them cheerfully, as she was her husband��s sister. There wasn��t much feeling, as long as the face diplomacy was observed. She looked at the child, said a few auspicious words, and brought peanuts and melon seeds for them to snack on.

    Zhao Yingjunughed: "What? Su Miao isn��t at home?"

    Su Jinxiu was holding the child, hearing this, her eyes dimmed, gritting her teeth slightly.

    "She��s here! She��s sulking with her dad, sleeping in the small room. I��ll go greet her." Ding Qiuyue didn��t think much. Being an elder, after all, they stayed at your house before, you shoulde out anyway.

    Su Miao��s mood was already like being in a frying pan. The noise outside was so loud, how could she not hear it?

    This guy even came looking! Originally thought after cheating him out of money, she��d soon disappear, and that��d be it. I��d just avoid you in the future. Who knew Zhao Yingjun would chase me to the door? What is this? Wanting the money back?

    Why should I return the money? You took advantage of me first, and you rudely kicked me out withoutpensation, is that okay?

    She greedily held onto this money, feeling justified!

    The most important thing is, her parents won��t let her out now, and if she wants to go to the city, they definitely won��t support her. Is it okay not to have money now? No matter what, this money can��t be returned!

    Ding Qiuyue came over: "Hurry and go, your aunt and uncle are here."

    Su Miao bit her lip, not moving, just pretending to be unwell.

    "You sulk with your dad, but why ignore your aunt? They took care of you..."

    "Mom! I didn��t even tell you. When I lived at their house, in the end, I was kicked out!" She sat up, angrily said: "Anyway, I hate her. I��m not going!"

    Ding Qiuyue was stunned: "What did you say?"

    "Aunt used her pregnancy to treat me like a servant, had a bad temper, always disliked me, then fought with uncle, used me of instigating it. Finally, aunt said I stole money, that��s why she kicked me out. Myst few days were spent outside, they��re afraid I��ll report them. Mom, I don��t want to see them!"

    Su Miao said half-truths to get herself off the hook, never mentioning the ambiguity with Zhao Yingjun or epting his money.

    After hearing that, Ding Qiuyue was furious! The sister-inw usually had a bit of arrogance, she tolerated it, after all, she didn��t see her often. But she didn��t expect her daughter to suffer such a grievance in the city! She even thought her daughter was well taken care of. Shameless Su Jinxiu!

    Though her daughter stayed there, didn��t pay Su Jinxiu, she did send a bunch of cotton and some local specialties. Unexpectedly, she treated them this way.

    "Doing such things, still having the face toe over! I��ll go to her!"

    Su Miao grabbed her mother��s arm: "Mom! Less trouble is better. I just won��t show up. Just say I��m not feeling well, and if uncle demands money from you, don��t give it. Also, don��t believe anything he says."

    Ding Qiuyue patted her daughter��s shoulder, turned and walked out.

    Back in the main room, she said with a smile: "Su Miao has a cold and isn��t feeling well, said she��s afraid of spreading it to your baby, so she��lle over when she��s better."

    Su Jinxiu didn��t mind, holding the child and watching. The child��s face was red from the cold, praying they wouldn��t catch a cold.

    Zhao Yingjunughed coldly inside, is she afraid I��lle ask for the money?

    Actually, he didn��t care about those few hundred bucks. He��s experienced in love affairs, a master at working with women, naturally not caring about that money, but being deceived is intolerable.

    But outwardly, he remained calm: "Is that so? Then take good care of her. The New Year is near."

    "Exactly." Ding Qiuyue said smilingly to Su Jinxiu: "My daughter said, during her stay at your ce, you always took care of her. I should take good care of you too."

    Su Jinxiu felt guilty being stared at by the sister-inw. After all, she had troubles with Su Miao, she didn��t believe Su Miao didn��tin. Is Ding Qiuyue resentful?

    Sheughed: "It��s all in the family, I have nothing to say, doing anything is expected. Just that, during my pregnancy, I had a bad temper. If I angered Su Miao, please forgive me."

    Su Minjian didn��t notice,ughed and said: "You two rest first, I��ll go kill a chicken."

    "No need, we��re all family, don��t be too polite..." Zhao Yingjun tried to stop him.

    "Guests are here, how could we not kill a chicken?" Su Minjian walked out.

    Ding Qiuyue saw Su Jinxiu��s matter-of-fact demeanor, anger surged.

    You dare humiliate my daughter and still want our family to kill a chicken!?

 Chapter 150 Mutual Hostility

    <h4>Chapter 150: Chapter 150 Mutual Hostility</h4><h4></h4>

    But Ding Qiuyue was a shrewd and mature woman, she wouldn��t reveal her thoughts. She smiled and said, "Why not kill two? There are also some sausages already made at the back of the house, I��ll bring them over together for you."

    Zhao Yingjun politely declined a little, continually expressing thanks.

    However, Su Jinxiu, who was sitting there, just smiled broadly and was just coaxing the child without speaking.

    Her heart was full of rage, she even suspected her husband and Su Miao already had that kind of rtionship. It��s New Year, Su Miao must have seduced him over. With this matter, how could she have any good feelings towards Ding Qiuyue? That shameless woman originally took advantage of her brother being drunk to climb into bed, forcing Su Minjian to break up with his girlfriend at the time; now her daughter is even more disgusting!

    Sister-inw and sister-inw are originally natural enemies. In previous years, they barely maintained a superficial rtionship, but this time, because of Su Miao��s matter, both sides harbored resentment.

    Although dissatisfied in heart, the preparations on the surface were notcking. Ding Qiuyue prepared arge table of dishes, enthusiastically inviting Zhao Yingjun and Su Jinxiu to eat. Su Minjian went out to call several times before Su Miao came in from the side room.

    She looked sickly,cking spirit, and upon entering just lowered her head and called out, "Aunt, Uncle is here?"

    Zhao Yingjun greeted her cheerfully, "Miao Miao, sit down. You seem to have gotten sick over the New Year." He��s not in a hurry, there is plenty of time to spend with her.

    Su Jinxiu��s hand tightened, but her face still bore an unnatural smile.

    Su Minjian saw his daughter like this, still thinking she was focused on going to the city, and instantly became even angrier.

    "A girl��s ambitions are bad if too big! You, day after day, don��t understand things, only know to run outside. Be sensible, just find a match in the vige, you��re over twenty, don��t think about those unrealistic things." Su Minjian patted his daughter��s shoulder.

    Su Miao was quite dissatisfied in her heart, but it wasn��t good to argue with her father. She just gave a faint smile, "Dad, I��m thinking since Brother Gu Junming is helping, finding a job shouldn��t be hard, right? Although I can��t work in the canteen, if you and he talk, maybe he can help find something a bit easier. I really don��t want to just settle." Why should I marry a farmer!

    Ding Qiuyue had heard Su Miaoin about Gu Junming before. Of course, Su Miao wouldn��t admit to seducing Gu Junming. She just said he was too arrogant and looked down on those who came from the same vige. He��s always been dismissive, casually finding her a lousy job just to fob her off.

    Ding Qiuyue thought to herself, that guy really isn��t good. No matter what, my daughter saved your life. You don��t want to marry my daughter, this is how you repay her? What a bastard. During New Year, I��ll go to your house to demand you arrange a job for my daughter. Otherwise, don��t even think your family��s reputation in the vige will be good!

    Su Minjian angrily said, "You think my words mean nothing now? I said you can��t go to the city, and you��re counting on others to help? They don��t owe you anything, when will you grow up?"

    Zhao Yingjun gave Su Miao a puzzled look. Who is Gu Junming? Could he be Su Miao��s lover? You��re purposely flirting with me to get money and favors, but secretly found someone else?

    At this time Su Jinxiuughed and joined in, "Isn��t it true? During Su Miao��s time in the city, I also felt that she always thought differently from us ordinary folks. She should be thinking about marriage and domestic life at her age, but all she thinks about is new clothes, good food, just like when she was a child. Obviously, Brother and Sister-inw pampered her."

    Su Minjian was indeed unhappy upon hearing this. Heart so unsteady, unrealistic, how could she live well?! He��s determined not to let his daughter go to the city again.

    Zhao Yingjun slightly frowned, but Su Jinxiu didn��t care, and that sort of talk only increased Su Miao��s anger again.

    Su Miao thought about it, thenughed, "Isn��t that right? I said those things because Aunt you mentioned it first! You said you couldn��t eat when pregnant, so you had Uncle cook for you all day,ining about this being salty, that being spicy. Uncle is so busy at work and still has to cook for you several times a day, ande the weekend, he��s dragged to shop by you. You��re the one who was greedy but med me, right? I really feel sorry for Uncle. Isn��t that right, Uncle?"

    After she finished, she threw a seductive nce at Zhao Yingjun.

    Zhao Yingjun was really captivated this time. He wasn��t unaware this girl was getting back at her aunt, but he was naturally promiscuous. Being looked at by such a beauty, how could he not be moved?

    At that moment heughed, "Isn��t that right! For the sake of this son of mine, your aunt is just exhausting me."

    Su Minjian snorted, "Xiu��er, have you also be so ignorant? Using the child to torment your husband, is this something you should be doing? You have no powering from the vige, tormenting your husband like this without knowing how to cherish! Really foolish!"

    Su Jinxiu nearly spat blood in anger, clutching the small nket wrapped around the child, forcing a smile, "Xiu��er only knows how to joke."

    "I��m not joking. If anyone is childish, it must be Aunt. Didn��t you say before that you wouldn��t care for me all your life, calling me a dead girl, why don��t you go somewhere else, that��s just what kids always say when arguing." Su Miao smiled as she looked at Su Jinxiu. You��re unting power in our house? I��ll crush you!

    "I didn��t..."

    "How could you not? Ask Uncle." Of course, Su Miao loathed Zhao Yingjun too, but she felt no fondness for this woman who drove her away either.

    Sun Jinxiu red at Su Miao, Zhao Yingjun held her arm, "It��s all just ying around, if you take it too seriously, it loses its fun."

    "Enough!" Su Minjian said, "You women talk about useless things every day, let��s drink, let��s drink!" He didn��t care about this, as long as it didn��t affect the big picture, arguments were fine. Living under one roof without arguments would be strange.

    Su Jinxiu angrily finished eating and returned to her room to pack up and go home.

    But Zhao Yingjun didn��t agree, "You were already in the wrong. It��s good enough they didn��t spread the matter of you driving her away, and now you��re giving them attitude?"

    "Zhao Yingjun!" Su Jinxiu pointed at his nose, "You shameless person, having your mind set on Su Miao. Otherwise, why would I drive her away? Do you dare to tell them what kind of person you are right now?"

    Zhao Yingjun was extremely annoyed, "Enough, shut up." If it weren��t for her giving birth to a son, he��d really want to divorce her. It was just a matter of ying around, so why make such a fuss? He inherently had no sense of shame, and wouldn��t think of Su Miao as his junior either.

 Chapter 151: Coming to Steal the Child

    <h4>Chapter 151: Chapter 151: Coming to Steal the Child</h4><h4></h4>

    "No matter what, if you don��t want me to spill the beans, you��reing with me. Otherwise, I��ll take the child and go home by myself!"

    "How are you going to leave in such cold weather? Besides, there are no buses at night. You think you can walk to the train station? You wouldn��t even make it to the city overnight!" Zhao Yingjun forcefully held her shoulders. "Just settle down!"

    Su Jinxiu angrily retorted, "You just can��t let go of that wench, Su Miao..."

    Before she could finish, Zhao Yingjun covered her mouth. "Keep babbling, and I��ll divorce you! Seems like you don��t want to live peacefully!" After saying that, he flung Su Jinxiu��s arm away and copsed onto the bed.

    Su Jinxiu sat on the side and started to cry, covering her face. But no one was there tofort her. She started to guard her husband fiercely, determined not to let him sneak out at night to find Su Miao. In truth, Zhao Yingjun didn��t have such intentions. Who would approach a girl in her parents�� house in the middle of the night? He was a lecher, but not a madman.

    If he got caught, wouldn��t they beat him to death?!

    The coupley silently in bed; Su Jinxiu ring at her husband��s back, her chest burning with anger, wanting to strangle him!

    Zhao Yingjun had been involved with many women before, and she had turned a blind eye. But to think he would woo his own niece!

    If word got out, it would be better for him to die and for her to be a widow than to be despised by others!

    Su Jinxiu reached out her hand but withdrew it before touching him, still afraid. All night, she tossed and turned like a pancake, unable to sleep.

    Su Miao was also sleepless. The stove in the house was very hot, with thick quilts, making her heart more restless.

    All she could think about was how to get to the city! Whenever she thought about her father��s attitude, she felt a chill in her heart. Although he loved her, he always kept his word. And Zhao Yingjun, would he let her go so easily? She was extremely nervous.

    The Su Family each had their thoughts, and another person, Ding Quan, was also sleepless, sneaking along the road.

    He had decided to sell his son for money, seeing that the New Year was approaching, and there were more gamblers in each vige. His hands were itching, but how could he gamble without money?

    Now, the only thing that could bring him fortune was this child. Besides, the people over there said that if they hadn��t heard about the child before the New Year, they would leave.

    Even his old mother had been kicked out today, so he wouldn��t be sessful going himself. He knew how much Wang Shufen despised him.

    With two or three days left before the New Year, he made a decision to steal the child.

    Back when he was the son-inw of the Wang Family, he got a key to the front door, and he intentionally didn��t return it after the divorce.

    He was initially nning to steal some money or something, but every time they went out, the old man carried the money with him, so he never seeded. This time, he was stealing his son, so he brought the key with him.

    Ding Quan changed into a lightweight cotton jacket, holding a brown-yellow pesticide bottle in his hand, which contained homemade knockout drops he bought from a neighboring household. He didn��t know the ingredients, but it was supposedly quite effective.

    He nned to sedate his son and take him away to sell overnight.

    The countryside was frugal with electricity; during this era, few could afford TVs, so it was mostly pitch-ck. Only the asional bark of a dog broke the silence, with no one on the roads.

    Ding Quan reached the Wang Family��s door, checked his surroundings, and started unlocking the door, shivering from the cold and nervousness. It took him a long while to open the door, then he proceeded to Wang Shufen��s room.

    His heart was pounding, knowing that besides Gu Junming, there was Old Wang, a tiger not to be messed with!

    Just as he was about to open the lock, he heard a woman��s voice from a nearby room: "Who��s there!"

    The voice wasn��t loud, but it startled Ding Quan so much that he slipped and fell on the ground.

    Sun Chan was getting up to use the bathroom. Their toilet was behind the vegetable garden, so she took a shlight and stood at the door, hearing Ding Quan��s noises.

    She shone the shlight and saw someone, immediately crying out loudly, "Thief! Gu Junming, there��s a thief!"

    Ding Quan panicked and lunged at Sun Chan, trying to cover her mouth, but she misunderstood, thinking he was going to assault her.

    After all, she��d only seen Ding Quan once before, so she didn��t recognize him, and fiercely kicked him in the groin, changing his screams as he writhed in pain on the ground.

    Meanwhile, the doors of other rooms were flung open. As soon as Gu Junming heard the noise, he leaped from the bed like a leopard, grabbing his cotton jacket with one hand and a poker in the other, rushing outside. Seeing someone on the ground, he didn��t hesitate to jab the poker twice, then kicked him.

    Old Wang also came out, "Who��s there!"

    Mrs. Wang anxiously said, "Still a thief in the vige?"

    Sun Chan shone her shlight over.

    The crowd shouted, "You brat, came to our house?"

    The old man swung his hand, "I��ll beat you to death!"

    "Dad! Stop hitting me, I��m begging you, ah!" hey on the ground.

    The old man, seeing his sneaky demeanor, grew even angrier, coughing as he hit him.

    With such amotion, Wang Shufen and her son also woke up.

    Ding Kang wanted to run outside but was held back by Wang Shufen, "Don��t meddle! Who knows what this bastard is up to!"

    Though he��s Ding Kang��s father, and seeing him beaten, a son should step in, but knowing how despicable this guy was, a beating was due, so he pretended not to hear.

    Ding Quan, being beaten, wailed, "Shufen, it��s me! I��m Ding Quan, help me out."

    "Why are you here, and with our house��s key?" Gu Junming sneered coldly. He had seen that the front door wasn��t damaged, clearly opened with a key.

    "I came to see my wife..." He couldn��t admit he wanted to steal his son to sell.

    "Sneaking into our house at night to see your wife?"

    The old man pped him hard and was about to hit again when Gu Junming and Mrs. Wang stopped him, "Forget it, let him go! It��s the New Year, and we��re all vigers; something goes wrong, it��s not good."

    Gu Junming yanked the guy by his cor and threw him out, "Get lost! Come back, and I��ll kill you!"

    Ding Quan nearly passed out from the fall but managed to roll and crawl away.

    The Wang Family didn��t think much of it, assuming he came to cause trouble with Wang Shufen.

    Mrs. Wang said, "We should change a lock."

 Chapter 152: A Fierce Fight

    <h4>Chapter 152: Chapter 152: A Fierce Fight</h4><h4></h4>

    "Hmm, this little brat. So conniving, holding onto the key for so long, who knows how much stuff he��s swiped from our house!" Father Wang spat and went back inside.

    "Mom, make sure Dad takes his medicine before sleeping." said Gu Junming.

    "Mm, I know, you go to sleep." Mrs. Wang nced at Sun Chan, "Frightened, weren��t you? Stay with him a bit."

    Gu Junming agreed.

    Wang Shufen, holding her son inside, thought, Serves you right! Can��t beat you to death!

    Ding Kang nced outside, "What are we going to do?"

    "What do you mean, do? Go to sleep. Remember how he used to beat you before."

    Ding Kang thought, indeed, that old man was never nice to him, so he justy down with his mom.

    Gu Junming, seeing everyone had left, ran over to Sun Chan: "Were you scared?"

    Sun Chan smiled, "I��m fine, you go back. You��re not wearing anything on the bottom, careful not to catch a cold."

    Gu Junming only had time to pull on some thermal pants, still wearing long johns underneath.

    "Alright, if you��re scared, I can help chase away your fright." Gu Junming offered seriously.

    Sun Chan pushed Gu Junming gently, "Really, I��m fine, hurry back." She��s truly not afraid, having seen so much before, she��s gotten used to it.

    Gu Junming, looking into her eyes, couldn��t help but feel a flutter in his heart, but s, she��ll only be eighteen after the New Year, still two years away.

    "What��s wrong, aren��t you going back?"

    Gu Junming looked around, cupped her face, kissed her hard, and ran back.

    Sun Chan stood there, blushing with surprise, almost forgetting about going to the bathroom.

    Gu Junming went back to the kang, thinking of her lovely face, feeling a sweet satisfaction that his beloved was sleeping just across in the other room. Even if he couldn��t reach her, he felt content.

    The Wang family stirred for a bit, then quieted down once more.

    But things were bleak for Ding Quan, his n to steal his own sonpletely failed, and he hobbled back, his coat snagged and ripped by the stove hook in several ces, cotton flying out continuously.

    It was cold already, now even colder.

    He swore in anger, "Damn! So fucking mean, don��t let me stand above you, or I��ll kill you all!" He is a grudging man, but his abilities are sorelycking.

    As he walked near the Su family��s yard, he suddenly saw two shadowsing out, it was Su Jinxiu and Su Miao.

    Neither of them could sleep due to anger, meeting while going to the bathroom at night, eyes ring with animosity, they agreed to go outside and talk.

    Sun Jinxiu cursed angrily, "You shameless slut, even have the nerve to ask why I scold you? You��re after my man!"

    "Your man is worth anything? Me going after him? Stop spewing nonsense! You bitch. Who let youe to my house for the New Year?"

    "I��ve lived here for over twenty years, this is my home, you��re going to be married off sooner orter!" Su Jinxiu retorted angrily.

    Su Miao sneered, "Married daughter, spilled water, not to mention, this house was passed from grandpa to my dad, I��m his only child, this house will be mine, you think it��s yours? But don��t worry, no matter how vicious I am, I��m not as vile as you, driving people out in the middle of the night! You go back to sleep. Don��t be an eyesore here."

    Su Jinxiu��s chest hurt from the anger, "You ill-bred trollop! You know why I kicked you out? Should we let the whole vige know?"

    "Haha, you��re old and ugly, can��t keep your man, see any young girl and think they��re after your husband? Don��t worry, your husband, even free, I wouldn��t take, also don��t forget, you rose to the top by hanging onto him, in the old society, you��d be nothing but a bed-hopping maid, acting high and mighty with me! I��m just ignoring you, if I really went after him, where would you stand? He��ll ditch you sooner orter! Pfft!" Su Miao finished and turned to leave.

    Su Jinxiu couldn��t hold back, grabbed her hair, "Stand still, you slut!"

    Su Miao, caught off guard, fell to the ground, before Su Jinxiu could react, she kicked Su Jinxiu down as well.

    "Bitch! Shameless, seducing my husband!"

    "You��re the shameless one, thought I didn��t know how you seduced my uncle back then? Just because we��re family, I don��t bother to expose you! You kick me out, thene to my home and disgust me, truly shameless!"

    The two weren��t far apart in age, filled with fury, they started to tear into each other on the snowy ground. Their voices were loud, and soon enough, Su Minjian and Ding Qiuyue came running out from the noise.

    Both rushed out hurriedly, and even Zhao Yingjun, who had been asleep, came out quickly.

    The two women rolled back and forth in the snow, noses filled with snow, pulling each other��s hair, each striking harder than the other!

    "You bitch, I��ll kill you!"

    Su Miao sneered, "If you don��t kill me, you��re not human, you��re a beast!"

    "Let go! Let go of each other!"

    Sun Minjian was furious, rushing over, seeing the neighbors�� lightsing on, people draping on coats to watch themotion. As the vige head, having such issues at home, he wished he could find a hole to hide in!

    "What is going on!" Ding Qiuyue rushed over to separate them, of course, biased towards her own daughter, pinched Su Jinxiu��s waist several times, making her cry in pain, before she could retaliate, Su Miao��s mother had already pulled her up.

    Ding Qiuyue patted the snow off her daughter while scolding, "How could you do this! She��s your aunt! You��re an adult now, how can you do such shameful things, you��re about to get married, letting people know, is it right? Isn��t it embarrassing?"

    On the surface, she was scolding her daughter, but in reality, she was scolding Su Jinxiu. You��re a grown-up, married, and still fighting your niece, this is our home, don��t you have any shame?

    Su Jinxiu, red-eyed, was about to charge over, Zhao Yingjun grabbed her, "Stop! Aren��t you embarrassed enough? Want everyone tough at us even more before you��re satisfied?"

    Su Jinxiu red angrily at Zhao Yingjun, "I��m bullied by them, and you me me!"

    "Shut up! At big brother��s ce, hitting your niece, isn��t that too much?" He turned to Su Minjian with an apologetic look, "Sorry, Xiu��er has been unpredictable since her pregnancy, she must have had a fit now, please don��t mind."

    "I��m not being unreasonable! It��s Su Miao��s fault!" She pointed at Su Miao and shouted, "She��s shameless!"

    Su Miao covered her face, sobbing, "I��m sorry, Aunt! I won��t go to your house again. I was wrong."

 Chapter 153: The Child is Missing

    <h4>Chapter 153: Chapter 153: The Child is Missing</h4><h4></h4>

    Before Su Jinxiu could speak, Su Miao continued crying: "I stayed at Auntie��s house for a while before, I��m grateful to you, but I also worked for you. I did household chores as well, andter when you chased me away, I didn��tin to my dad. Why are you so relentless? You beat me in the middle of the night, using me of seducing Uncle! How am I supposed to live in the vige if you say that about me? I know you��re pregnant and not in a good mood, but you can��t treat me like this! I don��t want to live anymore!"

    She said she was about to hit the low wall of the house.

    The crowd gasped in shock, and Ding Qiuyue quickly intervened to stop her. The mother and daughter cried together: "What are you talking about!"

    "Mom, it hurts so much! I��m from the vige, does that mean Auntie isn��t from the vige? Always assuming the vige women want to seduce her husband!"

    Su Minjian frowned without speaking, looking at his sister.

    Su Jinxiu felt faint, almost passing out, this wretch! Spoke out first, now if I say she seduced my husband no one will believe it!

    Zhao Yingjun, with a stern face, turned and pped Su Jinxiu: "What do you take me for? A beast in human skin? How can I enter this house? We��re husband and wife, and you insult me like this?!" No matter the thoughts, it��s uneptable for the wife to speak them out directly, especially in front of so many people.

    Su Jinxiu staggered from the p, her mind quickly clearing. She dared not say more, only covered her face and cried.

    The neighbors watching saw Su Jinxiu standing there so fierce, broader and taller, cursing, while Su Miao stood in front petite and delicate, pitiful, thinking Su Jinxiu was shameless.

    Su Minjian waved his hand: "It��s all augh, huh? Everyone��s drunk, and it��s gotten noisy. No big deal, hurry home, it��s quite cold, head back quickly!"

    "Vige chief, you should head back too, it��s pretty cold." The crowd couldn��t say much and went back together.

    All thinking how Su Jinxiu had changed in the city, treating her niece so harshly, looking down on vigers? Aren��t you from the vige too!

    After everyone left, Su Minjian said: "Alright, go back inside."

    "Brother!" Sun Jinxiu began crying in grievance.

    "Enough!" Su Minjian said: "I��m d you visited, but you��re busy too, with New Year��s around the corner, I need to give money and gifts to vigers, I don��t have time to entertain you. Head back tomorrow morning." He didn��t expect his daughter suffered so much at Sun Jinxiu��s house, even being chased away.

    But Su Miao hadn��t said anything, truly understanding, yet Su Jinxiu was too out of line!

    Seeing her brother treating her so coldly, Sun Jinxiu felt even more wronged, why doesn��t anyone believe me!

    Zhao Yingjun held Su Jinxiu, eyes full of warning: "Say one more word and I��ll divorce you! Head back tomorrow, you��ve disgraced mepletely!" He finished and left, not returning to his room, instead going to his brother-inw��s to apologize.

    Su Jinxiu trudged back to the room, heart in turmoil.

    She was the one being bullied! How could Su Miao turn it around with just a few words? No one believes me! Fine, I��ll leave tomorrow, anyway I bore Zhao Yingjun a son, if he wants a divorce, it��s a delusion!

    Crying, she returned to the room, slipping off her shoes climbing onto the bed, but as soon as shey down, she remembered something, where is my son?!

    She immediately sat up, then her mind buzzed, the small nket where her son was supposed to be still there, but the quilt and the child were gone!

    Su Jinxiu screamed and rushed out.

    Zhao Yingjun was apologizing to Su Minjian: "It��s all Xiu��er��s fault, we actually came to apologize this time, she��s been unstable since pregnancy..."

    "Never mind uncle, it��s nothing, I understand auntie." Su Miao wiped her tears: "No matter what, when I was in the city, you took good care of me. Both in money and material, you gave me plenty, I��m very grateful."

    Zhao Yingjun smiled: "Don��t say that, it was necessary to do. Although your aunt didn��t do well."

    This Su Miao was truly sly, saying things he couldn��t do anything about, how could he ask for the few hundred bucks back?

    Su Miao kept her head down, secretly delighted, no need to pay back, he��d be embarrassed to ask, Su Jinxiu badmouthing me didn��t work, I won this time.

    Then she thought of Gu Junming, how she easily dealt with others but had no way to handle him? It was infuriating!

    Ding Qiuyue felt it was time to speak, surrounded by city leaders, couldn��t offend them too much, maybe Sha Wujing could be useful.

    But before she could speak, the front door swung open with Su Jinxiu bursting in frantically.

    Zhao Yingjun annoyed: "What��s wrong now?"

    "The child, the child is gone! What do we do, the child was just stolen!" Su Jinxiu said and copsed to the ground crying,pletely exhausted.

    The crowd stood shocked at her words. Zhao Yingjun quickly ran outside, back to his room, and sure enough! Large footprints on the bed, someone must��vee in while everyone was outside, took the child and ran!

    "What do we do! What do we do now!" Zhao Yingjun was startled.

    Su Minjian hurriedly said: "It��s someone from this vige, they can��t get far. I��ll mobilize vigers to stop them!"

    He��s sharper than most, hence a vige chief.

    The couple just arrived today, only a few knew there was a child at home, someone must��ve intended theft, saw the child and got tempted to steal. So it��s gotta be a local viger!

    "Little brat, daring to steal our Su family��s child, risking his life! I��ll find them!"

    Su Jinxiu cried a few times, eyes rolling, then fainted.

    Zhao Yingjun didn��t care tofort her, followed Su Minjian to find people.

    Ding Qiuyue couldn��t hold Su Jinxiu alone, called Su Miao for help.

    Su Miao nced at Su Jinxiu in disgust: "Always causing trouble!"

    "Alright, didn��t the child go missing? It��s your fault too, if you hadn��t quarreled with her, would this have happened?"

    Su Miao listened and frowned without speaking.

    Ding Qiuyue added: "If the child is found then it��s fine, but if not, expect Su Jinxiu to hate you for life! You��re always my worry!"

 Chapter 154 Seeking

    <h4>Chapter 154: Chapter 154 Seeking</h4><h4></h4>

    How could Su Miao not understand these things?

    If it hadn��t been for her and Su Jinxiu being at odds, the child would never have been stolen! Although she used a strategy to make everyone think Su Jinxiu was unreasonable, the truth was she wasn��t doing well either. At the very least, she had asked her uncle for money. If her uncle, in a moment of anger over the lost child, revealed the truth, her life would be over.

    So she was extremely anxious. Where on earth was the child? Who was so wicked!

    She was so worried that blisters quickly appeared on her lips.

    The person was, of course, Ding Quan. This guy initially saw the two women arguing and thought it was just entertainment. But gradually, as the whole family came out and many surrounded them, he suddenly had an idea.

    The vige head��s family was not just wealthy. If I could take the opportunity to sneak in and steal something to sell, it would be good. So, he quietly went inside while everyone was watching. Who would have guessed that the ce he entered was precisely the room where Su Jinxiu and Zhao Yingjun were staying? Inside, he saw the child asleep under the moonlight and almost instantly decided to throw away the outer nket and wrap the child in a small quilt to carry him away, running nonstop toward another vige.

    Su Minjian and Zhao Yingjun started a nighttime search with the vigers, blocking all vige entrances. However, after several hours, with dawn approaching, there was still no sign of the child. Several vigers had caught a cold in the freezing weather. But since it was the vige head��s family, they dared not say anything and continued searching.

    "This can��t go on!" Su Minjian, anxious as could be, eximed, "This can��t go on! If it continues, the child will surely be taken away, I need to find Gu Junming!"

    Although Su Miao had spoken ill of Gu Junming and was at odds with him, the man was indeed capable! Regardless of embarrassment, she ran to Gu Junming��s house.

    Having been through a disturbance caused by Ding Quan, they had just fallen asleep, only to be awakened again.

    Gu Junming was the first to rush out, surprised at the sight outside: "What happened?" It looked like there were a dozen young men from the vige, all carrying shlights, with frost forming on their brows and eyelids. What could be happening in such cold weather?

    Su Minjian, panting heavily, pleaded, "Gu Junming, please help us! My sister��s eldest son is missing, just now. We beg you, help us find him! If the child isn��t found, our entire family won��t survive!" His voice trembling with emotion.

    Su Minjian had been the vige head for decades, and he had never been this way. The vigers felt sad too. For the local people, a son is a lifeline!

    Zhao Yingjun supported Su Minjian, "Brother, it��s not your fault. My wife was being unreasonable."

    "No, it��s my daughter��s fault for being so troublesome. Now if Da Bao is lost like this, my wife and I really..."

    Gu Junming said, "It��s only been a couple of hours, and there��s no vehicle in the vige, they shouldn��t have gone far. I��ll follow you and help find him!"

    By this time, Wang Shufen and Sun Chan of the Wang family, along with others, were also up and aware of what was going on.

    Gu Junming put on a padded coat and was about to leave when Sun Chan was also ready, saying, "Let��s look together."

    "You stay behind! It��s the coldest time now."

    "It won��t be cold once we start moving, and I can��t sleep anyway. Come on, I��m well prepared withyers!" Sun Chan smiled slightly, holding Gu Junming��s hand.

    Seeing her determination, Gu Junming didn��t argue further and took her along.

    Sun Chan and Su Miao were equally beautiful, but unfortunately, Zhao Yingjun was too consumed with worry about his son to notice. They followed Gu Junming, cing all their hope in him.

    However, Gu Junming didn��t hurry towards the vige entrance but headed back to the Su family.

    Zhao Yingjun asked, "Brother Gu, what are you doing?"

    "Hmm, anyone who came must have left traces, we just need to search for them."

    Sun Chan agreed, "Indeed, there must be clues."

    Su Minjian sent the vigers home to rest, following Gu Junming. These people were freezing, and he couldn��t let them continue without rest. Soon, they reached the Su family home.

    Su Miao saw Gu Junming and brightened up, rushing over, "Brother Gu, you came?"

    Gu Junming nodded silently, entering the small room where Zhao Yingjun stayed and soon found the footprints. Sun Chan looked at them and said, "It��s a man��s footprint."

    "Indeed. Quiterge." Gu Junming continued examining, then followed the trail with a shlight into the yard, where the footprints led to the back door.

    Everyone��s hearts tightened as they followed Gu Junming.

    In carrying the child, Ding Quan naturally couldn��t use the main door to avoid detection, while the back door had no neighbors nearby. Fortunately, a lot of snow remained uncleared, with many footprints visible leading out from the back door. They continued to follow these footprints.

    Zhao Yingjun��s heart was pounding, "Can we keep tracking?"

    "No, beyond here is the main road, there won��t be any visible footprints."

    "Then what do we do?" Zhao Yingjunmented, "Is there still no result?"

    "Not necessarily," Sun Chan suddenly remarked.

    Everyone focused on Sun Chan.

    Sun Chan stepped forward and picked something up from the roadside, holding it in her hand, "Look, what is this."

    They hurried to see, it was a clump of cotton stuffing. Sun Chan walked a few steps further and found another piece of cotton.

    "There was also cotton stuffing behind the yard just now," Sun Chan looked at Gu Junming.

    Gu Junming eximed, "Ah! It��s Ding Quan!"

    "What?" Su Minjian was shocked, looking at Gu Junming, "You think it��s Ding Quan?"

    Sun Chan nodded, "That��s right. I think it��s him."

    "But what on earth is happening?"

    "Hmm," Gu Junming frowned, "Before you came tonight, he ran to our house, and we beat him up. I tore his cotton jacket, and as he left, cotton was flying out. Looks like he��s the one who took the child."

    Su Minjian cursed, "That damn bastard! Stole from our family, I curse your ancestors! I��m going to their house to find him now!"

    Without waiting for Gu Junming to speak, Hua Fei also headed towards Ding Quan��s house along with everyone else.

    Ding Quan��s house wasn��t far. They lived in poor conditions, the house was falling apart. The couple woke up startled at themotion, seeing it was the vige head before greeting.

    Sun Minjian cursed, "Get Ding Quan, that damned bastard out here!"

    "Can��t we discuss civilly, vige head?"

 Chapter 155 An Anxious Heart

    <h4>Chapter 155: Chapter 155 An Anxious Heart</h4><h4></h4>

    Su Minjian spat with rage: "Slowly tell? He stole my sister��s child! Find that damn bastard for me!"

    Zhao Yingjun also clenched his fists, and said viciously: "If he returns the child now, that��s fine. But if he dares not to return the child, I��ll fight him to the death!"

    These two usually bully Wang Shufen like tigers, but at this moment they were suddenly frightened and shivering, unable to cope.

    Mrs. Ding trembled and said, "We don��t know, Ding Quan is not here, just checked his room, he��s not home."

    These two can��t control their son normally, knowing he often gambles, so when they found out he was missing, they didn��t care.

    Of course, Su Minjian didn��t believe it, so he rushed in to search, even checked the bathroom, but didn��t see anyone.

    Sun Chan nced around and, not seeing any cotton, said: "He might not have returned."

    Gu Junming thought for a moment, then turned and left.

    Su Minjian hurriedly followed: "Where are you going?"

    "To those gamblers�� homes. Aside from gambling, he has nothing good going on."

    The crowd found several gamblers, and one of them was intimidated by Gu Junming and revealed that someone wanted the child. The Su Family heard this and it felt like a thunderbolt!

    "I��m afraid by now, he must��ve sold the child." Gu Junming��s face darkened: "Initially he came to our house, not to try to get my sister to remarry, but likely intending to sell the child!"

    Zhao Yingjun and Sun Min cursed again, but when they went to the ce where the child was sold, they found the big iron gate locked, and the people had left. It was Sun Chan who found tire tracks on the ground.

    "It seems this family has a car. After getting the child, they fled overnight. As for Ding Quan, he probably slipped away with the money to hide." Sun Chan frowned.

    Zhao Yingjun managed to stand still, but Su Minjian was already close to copsing. He was anxious and stressed, cold and exhausted, being old made it worse.

    Gu Junming supported Su Minjian: "Vige head, don��t worry for now. The child has likely been bought by a wealthy family, so they��re safe for now. Besides, we don��t have a car, can��t chase after them. It��s better to go back and rest. I promise to help you get the child back."

    <subt>freew\ebno\vel..(c)om</subt>

    "Gu Junming..." Su Minjian looked at him with embarrassment.

    Honestly, when Gu Junming joined the army, he never cared for the Wang Family, cut back on the homestead, and often made things difficult when the vige asked for money or materials, or when voluntarybor was needed. Now with this, Su Minjian felt terrible shame.

    Gu Junming said: "The nation��s cracking down on child trafficking now. As a soldier, I definitely won��t ignore such behavior! No matter whose problem it is, I have to act, and I��ll report this to the higher-ups. Rest assured, now��s just before Spring Festival, the crackdown is severe, we won��t let off this bastard Ding Quan!"

    Though Zhao Yingjun was anxious, he knew nothing could be done now, and he also persuaded Su Minjian to return.

    "This evening there��s not even a car, we can��t walk to chase them, let��s head back. Brother, your health is important." Zhao Yingjun regretted so much, had he known, he would never havee to the vige, losing his son!

    Gu Junming and Sun Chan escorted them back, the atmosphere was heavy, the snow underfoot crunching loudly.

    Gu Junming said: "We need to find Ding Quan first, does he have rtives?"

    "He was your ex-brother-inw. Don��t you know?" Su Minjian asked, then realized his tone was inappropriate, coughed a few times, and added: "That guy has many dubious friends, can��t necessarily find rtives."

    Gu Junming didn��t mind it, since his own family lost a child, he was also anxious.

    <subt>\n(o)v.e\l</subt>

    Sun Chan said: "Isn��t Ding Quan short on money?"

    "Of course he��s short on money, otherwise why sell the child? He owed quite some gambling debts." As it was Gu Junming��s fianc��e, Su Minjian was respectful.

    "If he��s short on money, and got some, might he continue gambling?"

    The men were all startled, Zhao Yingjun quickly said: "I think the same as this youngdy! Even if he runs to the city, he��ll certainly look for gambling ces."

    "Yes, I��ll report this, we��ll search the city��s and town��s gambling dens, surely will find Ding Quan, once he��s found, we��ll have the child��s whereabouts."

    Talking, they arrived at the Su Family, naturally Su Minjian and Zhao Yingjun were endlessly grateful to these two, without them, there wouldn��t have been progress.

    Gu Junming exchanged a few polite words, and then left with Sun Chan.

    Seeing the husband return with the brother-inw, their faces purple from the cold, Ding Qiuyue immediately cried out in distress, quickly pulled them to sit by the stove, brewed a big pot of ginger tea for them, and it took a while for them to recover.

    Su Jinxiu was still groggy, hasn��t woken, with a big towel on her forehead.

    Although Qiuyue was unwilling, she could only take care of her.

    Su Miao saw her father return and followed in, but before she could speak, Su Minjian grabbed a broom and hit his daughter��s face with it.

    "Damn girl, if not for you, would the child be missing?!"

    Su Miao felt a sharp pain, her face instantly turning blue and purple, clutching her face and sobbing: "I was wrong, uncle, I was wrong, dad, I won��t argue with aunt anymore."

    Ding Qiuyue dared not say more, just held her daughter and cried.

    "Forget it, brother, it��s not her fault, we have to go to the city tomorrow, let��s rest." Zhao Yingjun looked pitifully at Su Miao and said no more, directly went back to his room, feeling too dispirited to think of anything else.

    Su Miao approached her father: "Dad, I was wrong."

    "Ah! What can I say to you?" He sighed, having pampered his daughter so many years, what else could he do?

    "Dad, is there news of Da Bao?"

    "Gu Junming did a great job today." Su Minjian warmed by the fire, exined what happened.

    Su Miao was initially delighted, knowing Gu Junming was smart and capable, but gradually felt ufortable, realizing Sun Chan was so clever?

    Su Minjian said: "I used to wonder why with your better conditions, Gu Junming didn��t choose you, now I see it. This girl is important not for looks or status, but brains!! She may seem inconspicuous outside, but she��s smart! In the future, she might achieve great things."

    After speaking, he stood up: "Sleep, we have to find people in the morning."

    Ding Qiuyue patted Su Miao: "Come on. Be good in the next few days, don��t make your dad angry, don��t fight with your aunt."

    She sighed, and left.

    Su Miao clenched her fists, biting her teeth, staring at the fire in the stove, feeling jealous, thinking how shameless this woman was, clinging to Gu Junming, living at his house without marrying!

 Chapter 156: The city is also quite depressing

    <h4>Chapter 156: Chapter 156: The city is also quite depressing</h4><h4></h4>

    Actually, she knows it doesn��t mean much. In the vige, once engaged, spending the New Year��s at the man��s house is only natural. But she��s just jealous and wants to pick a fight with her.

    "She��s just a wretched orphan! Why does everything go smoothly for her while I��m so unlucky!" She stomped her foot and went back into the house.

    Gu Junming and Sun Chan went back together too. Both drank ginger tea, prepared by Wang Shufen. Father and Mrs. Wang, unable to stay awake, went to sleep with their grandson. Sun Chan was a bit groggy and leaned against Gu Junming, her eyes hardly open.

    Wang Shufen said, "It��s about to be light; are you two going to sleep?"

    Gu Junming said, "I��ll nap for a bit. I need to head out at dawn. Can you stoke the fire and let Sun Chan sleep here for a while?"

    "Sigh, but what��s going on?" Wang Shufen asked, puzzled.

    Gu Junming exined the situation, and Wang Shufen��s face turned pale instantly, shaking with anger, her voice changing.

    "Ding Quan, that brute! Gambling and drinking is one thing, but now he��s done something like this, even stealing a child!"

    "Yeah." Gu Junming said, "I��ll try to get the child back before the new year, hoping they haven��t sold them to the South, just local, or else it��s trouble. Regardless, Ding Quan must go to jail this time. Don��t sympathize with him; he��s reaping what he sowed."

    "I won��t sympathize with him; it��s just hurting you, isn��t it? In this freezing weather, having to find someone..."

    "It��s fine as long as the child is safe. So young, in this cold, any ident could be fatal."

    Wang Shufen gritted her teeth: "I��m worried about Kangkang. If people know what his father did, what will be of him!"

    "It won��t happen. Be careful. When we take Kangkang to the city, who will know his past? As long as he studies well, he can have a good future."

    "I��m always causing trouble for you." Wang Shufen sighed. Though saying that, if the father bes a prisoner, the child may not have a good future, at least not in the army.

    Gu Junming offered a fewforting words, and by then Sun Chan��s head was already drooping onto his arm, sound asleep.

    Seeing her like this, Gu Junming��s face showed a tender expression, gentlyying her down on the bed.

    Wang Shufen hurriedly got up to find a quilt: "You rest for a bit; I��ll take care of her."

    Gu Junming nodded, looked at Sun Chan, and went outside.

    He slept for an hour or two in his room when Su Minjian and Zhao Yingjun arrived. The three said little and went straight out. Before leaving, Wang Shufen handed them several baked cakes and sweet potatoes, warm andforting, to eat on their journey.

    By the time the elders of the Wang Family woke up, Gu Junming had been gone for a while, and Sun Chan was still sleeping.

    Wang Shufen prepared breakfast and called the elders to eat, sharing the news behind her son��s back: "Mingzi went to find someone. Sun Chan helpedst night and was exhausted, sleeping."

    Father Wang, furious, coughed again: "Brute! I never thought he was good in the first ce, and now he��s even worse, huh?"

    Mrs. Wang said, "Mingzi is doing the right thing. No matter what, we can��t let the child suffer. Warm up food for Sun Chanter."

    "Got it, Mom. But the New Year is approaching..." It��s almost the 29th, tomorrow is New Year��s Eve. People are leaving. And it��s all because of her ex-husband, Wang Shufen couldn��t feel more embarrassed.

    Father Wang said, "It��s okay. Soldiers should have some awareness! Can��t just think about their ownfort and ignore the people��s issues; we should prepare well ourselves and not hold Mingzi back."

    "Got it, Dad." Wang Shufen agreed.

    The vige was tense before the new year, and the Gu Family in the city didn��t have a good holiday atmosphere either.

    Gu Juntao returned, but only after Gu Junming asked several people before he left to find him. The boy had gotten much thinner; the once plump face was now sharp. He walked in with a scruffy beard, face full of coldness,

    The family was stunned seeing Gu Juntao; he had lost at least 20 pounds.

    <sub>f .r e\ewebnov(e)(l).c om</sub>

    Seeing her son like this, Wang Guihua immediately cried out in anguish, went over and pulled him to look him up and down: "Son, what��s happened to you? Are you not eating well? Tell me, don��t scare Mom! I won��t argue with you again."

    Gu Juntao gently pushed her hand aside: "I��ve applied for discharge."

    "What did you say?" All three shouted together.

    Gu Juntao said in and simple: "And one more thing, Yang Hongying and I have already registered for marriage."

    Wang Guihua staggered, almost passing out, supported by Gu Zishan, who rebuked angrily: "What are you talking about? Didn��t you see your mom��s condition?" He was also furious.

    Gu Juntao said, "Yes, I see. But I��m telling the truth. Yang Hongying almost died, I can��t fail her. I took the household register when I left, none of you noticed, right?"

    Indeed, no one noticed because Gu Juntao used his independent register for the military.

    No one thought he would act first and informter. If still in the army, there would��ve been news at Gu Zishan��s end when he married, but he had already applied for discharge. Along with the batch of December soldiers, the family had no idea. It meant he had discharged before going to the quake area, volunteering rather than seeking achievements.

    Gu Dongfang was surprised looking at his grandson and thought, never before realizing his grandson had such strong determination!

    It was all stimted by his own mother; her words stabbed into Gu Juntao��s heart like knives.

    Doesn��t this mean, I��m just a waste, you want me to follow your instructions, marry the woman you chose, should I be a waste all my life? If I can��t be with the one I love, what��s the point of anything?

    Gu Juntao searched everywhere for Yang Hongying, practically going crazy, even falling seriously ill.

    In the end, Yan Kai couldn��t take it anymore. He told him Yang Hongying had returned home.

    She didn��t obey the assignment but returned there to be a teacher, a temporary worker without certification.

    The sry was low, excluded by many teachers, the ce was poor, the ssroom was a row of bungalows, the canteen hardly filling the staff.

    She had almost resigned to fate, thinking she would spend her life there. She fell ill, weakened so she could be blown down by the wind.

    At midday, she went to the canteen to get food and saw Gu Juntao��so shabby, so bleak, yet smiling as he walked step by step with a tattered bag in his hand, looking so pitiful.

 Chapter 157 It’s Almost New Year

    <h4>Chapter 157: Chapter 157 It��s Almost New Year</h4><h4></h4>

    The lunchbox in her hand was suddenly thrown to the ground. She couldn��t care less and rushed over, all the grievances she had suffered before turned into tears. She hugged Gu Juntao and cried intensely, feeling extremely wronged. Gu Juntao held Yang Hongying tightly, ignoring theughter of the students around them and the shocked teachers, and kissed her hard.

    The two of them registered their marriage certificate that afternoon. Gu Juntao told her that he had applied for a transfer to a government job with no real responsibilities and took Yang Hongying away immediately because he didn��t want her to suffer in such a ce.

    Gu Juntao was determined this time: "I will never leave you again. I��ve taken a big step forward, and I hope you can take a small step too. Stop avoiding me."

    Yang Hongying sobbed and agreed: "I��m sorry, Jun Tao. You only retired for my sake."

    "No need to apologize! I was never an excellent soldier; I could never advance based on my abilities anyway, and I don��t really care about that. As long as we can be together and enjoy a simple life, I don��t want to be involved in other people��s affairs."

    Yang Hongying was naturally happy and hugged Gu Juntao, crying continuously.

    She grew up spoiled, and she had suffered too much during this time; everyone around her bullied her, secretly calling her a widow. She didn��t eat or sleep well.

    Gu Juntao felt even more sorry for her and immediately took her back.

    Nowadays, she acted recklessly and revealed everything truthfully: "Grandpa, Dad, Mom, I know I��ve disappointed you with what I��ve done, but I can��t give her up. If you can ept me, I��ll bring her back for the New Year. If you can��t, then I��m sorry, but I��lle back alone in the future. Please stop hurting Yang Hongying; I��m the one who insisted she marry me."

    Wang Guihua trembled all over, tears streaming uncontrobly: "Why? Are you really going to hurt your mother like this just for a divorced woman? Do you know how high my expectations are for you? Are you stabbing a knife into your mother��s heart? Did I raise you so well just for you to marry a widow?"

    "Mom, I��ve grown up, and I have my own thoughts. Stop forcing me to do things I can��t do. I��m sorry for disappointing you, but I��ll make it up to you in the future." Gu Juntao bowed and then turned to leave.

    "Stop!" Gu Zishan shouted, "The New Year is just around the corner, where are you going?"

    "But if you don��t ept me..."

    "You��ve already registered your marriage, can you just not ept it? Tell Yang Hongying toe over for a meal tomorrow."

    "No!" Wang Guihua said anxiously, "You can��t agree to that!"

    "What else can be done if you don��t agree now? Should they divorce? Do you want Gu Juntao to be a man with two marriages?"

    Wang Guihua held her handkerchief and sobbed uncontrobly. She knew there was no way there would be a divorce, but to ept this kind of daughter-inw, she just couldn��t bring herself to be satisfied!

    Gu Dongfang said, "Juntao, you��ve made your decision and have an idea for yourself. We can��t control you, but I hope this is thest time you make us sad. Do you understand?"

    Gu Juntao knew this meant that his grandpa had forgiven him, and he quickly responded with a smile, "Yes! I understand, Grandpa. Hongying is a good girl. With time, you��ll see."

    "Since she��s already part of our family, ask Mr. Yan and Yan Kai if they would like toe over, if they don��t mind, to have a meal together!"

    "Okay, I understand. I��ll go tell her right now." Gu Juntao breathed a sigh of relief. No one mentioned hosting a wedding for them, but Gu Juntao didn��t care about that anymore. As long as they epted his wife, it was better than anything else.

    Wang Guihua suddenly stood up and ran into her room. Without closing the door, they could hear her crying out loud. No one spoke, and Gu Zishan simply sighed.

    These two sons, he couldn��t control either of them!

    The atmosphere for the Wang Family��s New Year was doomed to be unpleasant.

    Bai Fann��s side wasn��t much better. Mainly because Wang Hu and Father Wang were not home. These past few days, she helped her mother-inw clean rooms, wash clothes, change bedspreads and curtains, make dumplings, steam buns, and fry meatballs, exhausting her to the point of tears.

    Her household skills were really inadequate, and Mrs. Wang didn��t say much about it. After all, Bai Fann was an aplished schr who spent all her time studying, and she was quite amodating. However, even with that, Bai Fann couldn��t handle it.

    At night, she fell rigidly onto her bed, staring at the ceiling, feeling nothing but regret in her heart.

    Wasn��t it good for me to be the youngdy of the Bai Family? Why did I insist on marrying into the Wang Family, where my husband is indifferent to me, hasn��t even called once in all these days, and has no feelings for me at all? My father-inw doesn��t care about anything, and my mother-inw is only focused on making me a good wife and mother. I��m going crazy.

    But since it��s the path I chose, I can only continue walking it.

    The next morning, Mrs. Wang called her to get up: "We should buy some Spring Festival couplets and firecrackers, also some gifts, maybe some tobo, alcohol, and tea to sell. You��ll have to visit the rtives with me, since Wang Hu and your father-inw aren��t here this year, it��s just the two of us."

    Bai Fann felt like her whole body was falling apart but didn��t dare to lie in bed for too long, so she got up with Mrs. Wang.

    After a simple breakfast, they went to the market. It was the most bustling time, with every family out shopping for the New Year. Bai Fann stood among the crowd and saw many farmers carrying mountain goods and holding chickens, ducks, and fish.

    They wore simple smiles and some even smoked traditional tobo pipes.

    A trace of disgust shed through her eyes. Why are you all joining in the fun? There are already too many people in the city, and now you��re alling here! How annoying.

    Just then, someone tapped her on the shoulder, and when she turned around, she saw a girl in a red cotton-padded jacket standing in front of her, looking a bit haggard, but still dressed quite fashionably.

    She hesitated for a moment, thinking she had seen her somewhere before.

    "Sister, do you remember me? I��m Sun Lijuan! Sun Chan��s sister."

    <sub>f r\eew,eb novel.c(o)(m)</sub>

    This time, Bai Fann remembered. She had previously given the news, letting her and Zhao Xiuxia know about Sun Chan��s whereabouts, and they went to X City to cause a scene. Afterwards, Sun Lijuan got clever, and since she��s a doctor, she went to the hospital to find Bai Fann, but Bai Fann simply said she was busy and left. It was evident that her attitude was cold, so Sun Lijuan wisely left.

    From then on, the two had not seen each other until now.

    Bai Fann forced a smile. She wasn��t familiar with her and didn��t want to say much, only saying, "I��m apanying my mother-inw to buy New Year��s goods. I won��t disturb you."

    "Oh, Sister Bai, you��re married? What does your husband do? Is he doing well?"

    Bai Fann hummed in response, very indifferent, not wanting to answer.

    Sun Lijuan was selling chickens today because her family was very poor, and for her to buy a new set of clothes for the New Year, Zhao Xiuxia took a few chickens from home to sell, but business wasn��t going well, so Sun Lijuan was a bit frustrated, not expecting to see Bai Fann here.

 Chapter 158 Bai Fanglan Celebrates New Year

    <h4>Chapter 158: Chapter 158 Bai Fann Celebrates New Year</h4><h4></h4>

    "Sister Bai, don��t rush. It��s rare for us to meet, let me treat you to a meal." Sun Lijuan said with a smile.

    Bai Fann was annoyed, why act so close? Who��s your sister!

    But seeing her mother-inw selling dates nearby, she didn��t want her to notice her losing her temper.

    She said, "No, it��s almost New Year, I��m too busy. Maybe next time."

    "Big sister, to be honest, I want to know where my sister lives now?" Sun Lijuan said with a smile, "You know, the rtionship between my sister and me is not good. She doesn��t like me, but I don��t want us sisters to lose contact, right? I still want to see her."

    Bai Fann felt a stir in her heart, this woman was clearly looking to cause trouble for Sun Chan!

    If it means troubling Sun Chan, then it��s a good thing!

    Sun Lijuan saw her expression and secretly rejoiced. With this woman, I can find trouble for Sun Chan. If I��m not doing well, I definitely won��t let you do well!

    Bai Fann said with a smile, "I don��t know where Sun Chan lives, but I��ve heard she��s running a fruit stall now. Seems like it��s near the train station?"

    Sun Lijuan said, "I see, thank you, I��ll go and find her. Next time I��ll treat you to a meal." Seeing Bai Fann��s dislike for her, she quickly and tactfully took her leave.

    Bai Fann and her mother-inw bought dates and a bunch of things, then headed home walking instead of taking a vehicle.

    When they got home, before even catching a breath, Mrs. Wang said with a smile, "Let��s eat a little first, then wrap frozen dumplings. Also need to prepare chicken, duck, fish, and meat, remove scales and freeze the fish, there��s some cleaning, mopping to do. So much before the New Year, hard work until the New Year��s Eve, then we can rest. The maid has gone home for the holidays, otherwise, it wouldn��t be so tiring."

    Seeing there was still so much work after a busy morning, Bai Fann bit her lip without speaking, her face darkened.

    Even after New Year��s Eve I can��t rest, still need to apany visits to rtives. I don��t know how the Wang Family has so many rtives! Ugh, I��m gonna go crazy at this rate.

    Bai Fann thought for a moment and said with a smile, "My grandfather will be alone during the New Year, I want to go see him. His leg isn��t good. Though I said it��s busy here, he keeps calling, not visiting isn��t right..."

    Mrs. Wang, upon hearing this, said with a smile, "In that case, visit him in the afternoon."

    "Alright. I��ll try toe back early to help you with work."

    Mrs. Wang thought, is this work helping me?

    Bai Fann hurriedly tidied up, put on her coat, and left. When she returned to the Bai Family, she didn��t have time to say much to her grandfather, she went straight to the bedroom and slept.

    Bai Chuan frowned, is she exhausted? Being someone��s wife always ends up this way, this child really doesn��t understand. But then again, the Wang Family hasn��t treated Bai Fann, the new daughter-inw, well either, so forget it, can��t interfere.

    <sub>f.re(e) w.e(b)nov el.c.om</sub>

    Mrs. Wang understood she had escaped, smiled a bit helplessly, people say having a daughter-inw makes things easier, but still need to do things yourself.

    She didn��t expect toin, but at that moment Wang Hu called.

    He asked and found out his wife went back to her maiden home, leaving his mom to do all the work, got angry immediately.

    "Outrageous! How can a wife behave like this?" he said coldly, feeling disappointed with his wife.

    Mrs. Wang said, "Your wife is exhausted, she��s never done such work before, and you say this? Let me ask you, in these days, have you called her,forted her? No, right? Don��t be like this, your cold nature is something your father and I are used to, but others aren��t, hearts be cold, how will it get better? I��m waiting to hold a grandchild!"

    "I understand, I��ll call her. I��ll return on New Year��s Day, stop working so hard, just buy something, like dumplings, there��s no need to make them ourselves." Wang Hu hung up, thought for a while but still didn��t call Bai Fann.

    He really had no feelings for this woman, neither liked nor disliked, wouldn��t think about her when out. Even on calls, wouldn��t know what to say. Thought if she��s tired, let her rest.

    When Bai Fann returned the next day, heard Wang Hu called but didn��t call her.

    Mrs. Wang said with a smile, "He��s busy, and straightforward, I have his number. Here, call himter."

    Is he angry? I��ve worked like a ve in your family for days without a nice word, and just because I wasn��t there when he called, he��s like this?

    And now you want me to call, am I really that cheap! She nodded with a smile but didn��t call.

    So she became even colder towards Wang Hu, worked less diligently, and Mrs. Wang just pretended not to notice.

    Wang Hu returned on New Year��s Day, stayed for a day before leaving, Bai Fann��s demeanor was indifferent, not a trace of love after reunion, didn��t nce at Wang Hu, nor did Wang Hu say any affectionate words to her.

    Father Wang and Mrs. Wang frowned, said a few words to lighten the mood, the couple barely smiled and exchanged a few.

    Bai Fann helped in the kitchen, the family of four simply ate, rested, didn��t keep watch for the New Year.

    Wang Hu went to the study to discuss things with Father Wang, Bai Fann went upstairs to rest.

    Shey in bed, couldn��t help but cry. She wanted to go home, but Bai Chuan had gone to the provincial capital and told her, from now on the Wang Family is her home. She wasn��t allowed to return casually.

    Bai Fann stared at the ceiling, silently shedding tears at first, then bit the corner of the quilt and cried, her shoulders shaking. Her husband doesn��t like her, has no feelings for her, this cold home gives her face in front of others but what else does it offer?

    Her husband hasn��t even entrusted her with managing his sry. Won��t speak a word to her.

    She thought of Gu Junming, how he cared for Sun Chan, vividly remembered, something she could never have in this life. Thinking about it made her hate Sun Chan even more, if it weren��t for that seductress enticing Gu Junming, she wouldn��t be in this unfortunate position!

    In her subconscious, Bai Fann resolutely refused to admit that Gu Junming didn��t like her, but felt given time she had a chance, all because Sun Chan snatched him away.

    When Wang Hu went upstairs, Bai Fann was already asleep.

    He saw Bai Fann��s swollen eyes, pillow damp, froze in ce.

    She cried during the New Year? Wang Hu felt somewhat guilty. He indeed was too harsh on Bai Fann. Though he didn��t like her, turning a good girl into this felt quite regrettable.

    He didn��t say anything, took off his clothes,y beside her. He reached out several times but couldn��t bring himself to embrace her. Finally, turned over and slept.

 Chapter 159: Returned

    <h4>Chapter 159: Chapter 159: Returned</h4><h4></h4>

    The next morning, when Bai Fann woke up, she found two shopping vouchers beside her pillow. She knew what these were.

    They were benefits given by the military, which could be used to receive military-grade leather shoes, cotton-padded jackets, biscuits, and bread��all of high quality.

    Mrs. Wang walked in smiling, "You��re up? Wang Hu said when he left that you weren��t feeling well, so you don��t have to visit with me. You can rest at home or visit a ssmate if you want. I��m giving you the vouchers; buy whatever you want. It��s just a shame the shops are closed until the fifth day of the New Year."

    Bai Fann was startled by Wang Hu��s thoughtfulness and quickly smiled, "I didn��t even know when he left. Sorry, Mom. I slept too deeply."

    "No problem, just rest up."

    Mrs. Wang left. Bai Fann held the vouchers, somewhat dazed. This was a kindness to her, right?

    She chuckled bitterly. She once had many suitors, starting from college, when many boys liked her and tried every means to get close to her. At that time, she was very proud, thinking they were only interested in her family��s power. And she had someone she liked and wouldn��t be moved. But now, she had fallen to the point where two vouchers warmed her heart.

    How pitiful it was.

    She held the vouchers, thinking that Sun Chan must have some too, after all, Gu Junming was of high rank.

    "That cheap woman really is lucky." She sneered, got up, and went to wash.

    The person she cursed, Sun Chan, was already up.

    In the vige, the New Year atmosphere was more intense. From the moment they woke up, they heard the sound of firecrackers outside.

    Sun Chan and Wang Shufen got up early. Wang Shufen helped Mrs. Wang organize the cooking, while Sun Chan pasted couplets with glue.

    In the countryside, the mostvish meal is usually eaten on New Year��s Eve. Lunch and breakfast are just simple meals to get by.

    Gu Junming wasn��t there, so everyone had little appetite, Wang Shufen even less so, worried about the impact of her ex-husband��s deeds on Kangkang��s future.

    It had snowed a little outside. Sun Chan pasted the couplets and then swept the snow from the yard. As she swept, she watched the road, anxiously waiting for news from Gu Junming, wondering why he hadn��t returned after leaving several days ago.

    Seeing her like this, Mrs. Wang smiled, thinking, this daughter-inw truly cares about Mingzi.

    The Wang Family was also worried about Gu Junming, anxiously waiting for him. They didn��t have the mind to eat, just swallowed a few frozen dumplings to get by.

    Ding Kang noticed his uncle was always absent, so he asked what was going on, but they just brushed him off casually.

    Finally, in the afternoon, as the sky was turning dark, Gu Junming returned. His clothes were covered in ice crystals and were torn in several ces, making him look quite miserable. He had some wounds on his face and neck as well. The whole family gathered around when they saw the scene.

    "What happened? Did something happen?"

    "Yeah, something happened while rescuing a child." Gu Junming nonchntly smiled, "Just minor injuries."

    "Did you find the child?" Father Wang asked.

    "Found them. Dad, don��t worry, the child is fine." Gu Junming replied with a smile.

    Mrs. Wang helped remove his clothes, revealing injuries underneath. Several scabs on his sweater had solidified, shocking her so much she nearly sat down in fright.

    Gu Junming hugged her, "Mom! Just superficial wounds, no worries!"

    Sun Chan was chilled, grabbing Gu Junming��s arm, "What exactly happened?"

    Wang Shufen gritted her teeth, "Was it that beast who hurt you? If it was him, I��ll find him and fight to the death!"

    "Not his doing; he��s been caught now too." Gu Junming briefly exined.

    It turned out they took a car to the city and, following Sun Chan��s previous instructions, sought out the gambling ces there and found Ding Quan as expected.

    He was engrossed in gambling with a dubious woman at the time, holding several thousand yuan in his hands, eager to try his luck here.

    Before he could get started, he was seized by Su Minjian, who, along with Zhao Yingjun, pressed him to the ground and beat him up without a word.

    Ding Quan screamed in pain and initially refused to confess, "I don��t know what��s going on; why beat me for no reason?"

    "You��re trying to y dumb at a time like this?" Gu Junming coldly smirked, "How much did you sell the Su family��s child for? The money in your hands came from selling the child, didn��t it?" He retrieved the stash hidden in Ding Quan��s underwear and threw it at his face.

    "This money was borrowed!"

    "Borrowed from whom? Ding Quan, since we��ve found you today, there��s no escape! If you don��t admit it, I��ll send you to the jail, and don��t even think about getting out for thirty years!" Gu Junming wasn��t just threatening; there was a crackdown going on. Execution could be a possibility.

    Su Minjian sneered, "Don��t forget I��m a vige chief. My authority might not be big, but I can deal with you easily! If you can��t get past this, don��t even think about continuing to live in the vige."

    <sub>\n(o)v.e\l</sub>

    Zhao Yingjun also coldly eyed him, wanting to skin him alive.

    Ding Quan was utterly terrified, not a bold person by nature, and quickly spilled the beans, "It was someone named Sun San, who opened a clothing store in the city. His wife introduced it, saying a wealthy family wanted a boy."

    Su Minjian kicked him hard, "Take us there immediately!"

    "Yes, I��ll take you right away. Please stop hitting me."

    All the way there, Su Minjian and Zhao Yingjun asionally beat him, with a desire to tear this man apart!

    When they reached Sun San��s home, they found only him there; his wife had taken the child to meet with the buyer at the bus stop. Gu Junming hurriedly chased ahead, stopping by the police station to report the case. The higher-ups took it very seriously, and two officers joined the pursuit. The culprits took a bus to the countryside, while Gu Junming and the others drove a police car and chased all day, finally catching up.

    In a remote vige, the locals shockingly resisted, sshing cold water and using knives, causing injuries.

    Both Gu Junming and Zhao Yingjun were injured; Su Minjian twisted his leg, but none of the injuries were severe.

    "Now Zhao Yingjun has brought the child back. No serious problems; rest assured, all the criminals including the buyer have been caught. The child has a slight fever but seems fine."

    Everyone breathed a sigh of relief. Despite the injuries, finding the child was something worth celebrating. The buyer was reportedly generous, willing to pay forty thousand yuan for the child, but the middlemen siphoned most of it, leaving Ding Quan with only a small fraction.

    All those involved were arrested, with Ding Quan still morously demanding to be freed.

 Chapter 160: Obvious Contrast

    <h4>Chapter 160: Chapter 160: Obvious Contrast</h4><h4></h4>

    He shouted, "I also did a good deed despite my crimes. You can��t treat me like this! Gu Junming, I��m still your brother-inw!"

    Gu Junming sneered, "You��re no longer part of our family. Even if you��re my brother-inw, I won��t let you go!"

    "We��re from the same vige. If you dare to steal our child, I��ll fight with you!" Su Minjian couldn��t care less about being the vige chief now. He picked up a stone from the ground and was about to hit Ding Quan with it. But Gu Junming stopped him; if you hurt him, you still have to paypensation.

    Everyone felt frightened inside. If they were hurt by people from that vige, it wouldn��t be good. Father Wang didn��t care; as someone who had been on the battlefield, he thought a little injury to his son was nothing.

    Mrs. Wang said, "You should change your clothes. Check the wounds; there should be gauze at home, right? Find it, and I��ll help you change it."

    "Mom, let Sun Chan do it." Wang Shufen smiled.

    "Yeah, I��ll do it." Sun Chan said and blushed.

    Mrs. Wang smiled and nodded. She didn��t say anything else, as it was most fitting for her to do it.

    Wang Shufen and the others were about to head back. Before leaving, she said, "Let��s not make fish tonight. Let��s make something light."

    Gu Junming hurriedly smiled and said, "Don��t let me affect your festival, I can eat some meat. You eat what you want."

    Ding Kang shouted a few more words at his uncle and then went out to y. He didn��t know what his father had done.

    Mrs. Wang was making New Year��s Eve dinner with her daughter, and with her son back, her mood improved.

    Sun Chan was helping Gu Junming change clothes and bandage the wounds, relieved to see that his injuries were just superficial.

    "Try not to get water on these wounds for a few days. If you get a fever, take some medicine."

    "I understand. I��ve already taken medicine." Gu Junming stared straight at Sun Chan.

    She was not even a meter away from him, his gaze was too direct, making Sun Chan��s ears feel hot. Coupled with helping him bandage his wounds, seeing his exposed muscles, she felt inexplicably flustered. In her previous life, although she got married and had a marital life, she was always passive and fearful during those times.

    She never felt this kind of panic before; her heart was pounding, and she didn��t dare to look up.

    "Why are you staring at me?" She nudged Gu Junming.

    Gu Junming simply smiled, saying nothing. After finishing the bandaging, he grabbed Sun Chan��s hand and kissed the back of her hand: "Thank you, my wife, you��re so good to me."

    Sun Chan��s face reddened, and she pulled her hand back, "We��re not married yet, why call me your wife."

    "It��s only a matter of time." He lightly embraced her into his arms.

    "It��s New Year��s Eve today, haven��t you called the city?" Sun Chan changed the subject.

    "No, I haven��t had the time. Only the vigemittee has a phone; I��ll call tomorrow instead. I need to rest; I haven��t slept well for two days." He was very tired, kissed her forehead, and copsed onto the kang bed.

    Sun Chan helped cover him with the quilt, watching him fall asleep, and then went out to help cook the meal.

    Mrs. Wang stewed an old hen with potatoes, a dish that was both tasty and sweet. She also made spare ribs, fried balls, dumplings, and some northeastern home-style dishes; the dinner was very sumptuous.

    But Gu Junming kept sleeping, so they didn��t wake him. Setting aside a portion for him, everyone ate together.

    Mrs. Wang kept serving food to Sun Chan, making her feel embarrassed.

    "Don��t be shy, eat more."

    Ding Kang also served her food: "Eat, Aunt!"

    "Yes, eat more. You��re not very strong." Wang Shufenughed.

    Father Wang nodded repeatedly: "Yes, being too skinny is not good. Serve her more meat!"

    Sun Chan was very touched in her heart. So many people cared for her, something she never experienced in her previous life.

    It was her first time having New Year��s Eve dinner with so many people. They all treated her as family, and she secretly decided to treat them well in return.

    Meanwhile, things were much more deste at Sun Lijuan��s ce, dozens of miles away.

    In previous years, they would go to her uncle��s ce for New Year. But ever since the incident at Xiong��er Ridge, Zhao Xiuxia and Zhao Biao, Zhao Long, had cut off contact. Even when they went, those sisters-inw would treat them with disinterest. Although the Xiong��er Ridge people didn��te to the vige to cause trouble, they would yell and curse when they asionally met during the market day, hating Zhao Xiuxia to the core.

    Zhao Xiuxia could only spend New Year��s with her daughter in the vige.

    However, the mother and daughter were incapable of managing anything, idle and dependent. The vige��snd was there, but now Sun Chan wasn��t home to work; who would farm it? So the yield was pitiful, and they had no money left.

    Zhao Xiuxia was helpless. On New Year��s Eve, there were only a few cabbage dumplings and a big bowl of tofu with potatoes on the table.

    Sun Lijuan had never suffered like this before, took a few bites, and startedining: "I can��t eat this! Ma, there��s no meat!"

    "Isn��t there meat in the dumplings? Just make do."

    "You call this meat?"

    Sun Lijuan irritably said, "Every household is eating delicacies, and you want me to eat this?"

    "What can we do? So much money spent on your treatment, and you have to go to school! Draining our resources with no ieing in, I can��t make money appear for you! This is already good enough. After these dumplings, I don��t know when we can have another decent meal." Zhao Xiuxia was also exasperated.

    Life is extremely difficult now, luckily there are some corn grits, but they won��tst until summer, won��t they?

    Sun Lijuan gritted her teeth, "That damn Sun Chan, it��s all her fault! If it weren��t for her, we wouldn��t be in this mess!"

    Normally, Zhao Xiuxia would have joined in cursing Sun Chan, but today she was too tired: "Think about your future! Cursing her won��t help, you can��t have kids now, and can��t change anything by cursing her to death. Thank goodness Gu Junming promised to find you a job. Try finding someone divorced with kids when the timees."

    Sun Lijuan was extremely annoyed, but she knew her mother was right. The more she thought about it, the more irritated she became; she threw down her chopsticks and walked out.

    "Where are you going?"

    "Just going for a walk. Don��t follow me!" Sun Lijuan said impatiently and ran out.

    Walking in the vige, hearing the sound of firecrackers, she started feeling anxious.

    As she walked, she saw a figure ahead��it��s Ding Hu, Sun Chan��s first love. <i>Correct content is on ebnov(e)l</i>

    Sun Lijuan smiled slightly and walked towards him.

    Ding Hu had been kicked out by his wife.

    Last year, he had the idea to go to the city to work, and after much persuasion, Liu Mei agreed. Who would��ve known that he��d lose the money right after getting off the train, wandering around the city for two days like a headless fly, before borrowing money from a fellow viger to return home.

 Chapter 161 Malicious Instigation

    <h4>Chapter 161: Chapter 161 Malicious Instigation</h4><h4></h4>

    And so, Ding Hu returned home with nothing, only to get a thorough scolding from his mother-inw��s family.

    "Spent so much money going out to work, but just stepped out and came back, not a cent earned, instead losing a few hundred! Tell me, are you even a human? You��re just like a pig!"

    "You should really think about what��s the value of living like you do! If I were you, I would��ve died a long time ago! Bah!" Mr. Liu finished cursing and went for a smoke.

    Liu Mei was also disgusted to death, wondering how she ended up choosing such an idiot!

    This whole winter, Ding Hu didn��t have it good, getting scolded like a grandson every day, and was kicked off the bed by his wife several times, not daring toin, being verypliant.

    Today was New Year��s Eve, and he got scolded again by Mrs. Liu for not cooking the dumplings well.

    Liu Mei said, "Just looking at you irritates me! Even on this festive day, you��re a nuisance here, get back to your own home for dinner and let us have some peace! Useless thing!"

    Liu Mei��s parents didn��t speak on his behalf, they were very dissatisfied with this son-inw, silent in nature, not quite up to mark, and most importantly, they��ve been together for so long and their daughter still isn��t pregnant! The initial reason for bringing him in was just to have a child, but so long after the marriage, their daughter��s belly isn��t showing any signs. He eats quite a lot but can��t aplish any household tasks. Even going out to work he can lose money! Raising such waste is truly a waste of grain!

    If it weren��t for their daughter being really unattractive and having a bad character, they would��ve had the two divorce long ago.

    So, humiliated, Ding Hu was driven out, walking back towards his own home. A live-in son-inw can��t spend the New Year at home, and since his ce is so poor, probably without anything good to eat, he��s a thousand times unwilling to go back, but it��s still better than freezing to death on the road, right? So he walked towards his home.

    Correct content is on freew.ebnovel.c om.

    He met Sun Lijuan head-on, but Ding Hu ignored her, wanting to walk around her, but Sun Lijuan stopped him, raising her arms to block his path, looking at him with a smile.

    "Wait up."

    Ding Hu looked at her in confusion, "What do you want?"

    "I want to talk to you."

    "Hehe, with the way I am now, what could we possibly talk about?"

    Sun Lijuanughed, "We��ve lived in the same vige for quite a while, we��re friends, I��m just concerned about you."

    Ding Hu suddenly lifted his head, ring at Sun Lijuan fiercely, his eyes filled with hatred!

    Back then, the one who egged him on to break up with Sun Chan and get involved with Liu Mei was this vile woman!

    He raised his hand with intent to hit her, but thinking about it, if he truly did, and Sun Lijuan stirred up trouble at Liu Mei��s home, it wouldn��t be any good for him. So he could only lower his hand and try to walk past her.

    Now he��s physically and mentally exhausted, aging a decade overnight, and although Liu Mei��s family has a bit of money, they��re just an average countryside family, and after marrying, he gained nothing, treated like a mule every day, long devoid of any spirit.

    Sun Lijuan said, "Do you want to go find Sun Chan with me?"

    Ding Hu froze, standing still staring at Sun Lijuan, "What did you say?"

    "I��m going to find Sun Chan after the New Year, she��s selling fruits now, living well, dressed nicely, looking increasingly pretty, as her sister, seeing her do well, I��m also quite envious. Want to check it out?"

    If Sun Chan gets ruined by this guy, she definitely wouldn��t live, she��s in trouble, it��s my good days then!

    Ding Hu thought for a while, then chuckled; "You don��t get along with Sun Chan, trying to use me? Let me tell you, I��m not getting involved! I finally see through you, you made us separate not for my good, just to make her unhappy, when she��s unhappy, you are happy? You really think I��m a fool, huh? Now you��ve ended up like this, no matter how jealous, there��s no use, your sister simply has a better destiny than you, hah, thinking you can outrun her?"

    Sun Lijuan��s face turned pale, she couldn��t believe Ding Hu had such thoughts?

    Since she was young, she couldn��t stand Sun Chan, prettier than herself, with skillful hands, more popr in the vige, it made her seethe, just a bastard, huh? Deserves all your praises? So she seized every chance to bully Sun Chan.

    Zhao Xiuxia also didn��t care, after all, picking Sun Chan initially was for her own son to have a wife, with her son dead, just waiting to sell her at a good price at the right age, who cares about her well-being? Seeing Ding Hu with Sun Chan unsettled Sun Lijuan, also worried about fetching a lower price, considering his family��s poverty, so she meddled in breaking them apart.

    Sun Lijuan, unwilling to give up, smiled lightly, "I don��t care about what you think; you say it��s not, but... you��ll feel it, won��t you? But are you really okay with seeing someone you once liked living with someone else? Now Sun Chan��s living city-like, quite elegant, even her fianc�� is a city leader��s son, something you gave up, now thriving, you have no feelings?" Sun Lijuan��s tone was sour, filled with jealousy.

    Why is that vile one��s life so good! I��m just slightly less attractive than her, not much worse! She hasn��t studied much either! Why does she have such luck! And thinking ofst time she tried to frame Gu Junming, thwarted, with Gu Junming��s icy gaze, and Sun Chan��s mocking smile, she wanted to find a hole and hide.

    Without even having a child, forever losing the right to be a mother... her hatred was finally uncontainable.

    But Ding Hu chuckled coldly, "Stop with all your nonsense! We��ve found our partners, Ick ability, and I admit it! I wronged her back then, her good life is a gift from heaven. You inciting me to go to her? Just don��t constantly envy your sister, quit backstabbing, aren��t you afraid of karma!"

    Ding Hu was so fed up that he didn��t want to deal with Sun Lijuan, heading straight outside.

    Sun Lijuan yelled, "You��ll just live your life taking crap at Liu Mei��s home, that��s all you��ll amount to, loser!" Then she angrily rushed home, frozen dead!

    Ding Hu quickened his pace with a few steps, but slowly his pace gradually stopped. What Sun Lijuan said actually made quite a bit of sense.

    Am I really destined to live as a live-in son-inw forever?

    Sun Chan now has her own business, if I can reconcile with her, we could partner up for some business in the future, she��d put up the money, I��d manage the stand, live together for a while, and once settled in the city, with money, I��ll divorce Liu Mei and marry Sun Chan.

    Never having to live with those fools who look down on me again!

 Chapter 162 Torture

    <h4>Chapter 162: Chapter 162 Torture</h4><h4></h4>

    He was still thinking, even if we can��t get a divorce, I��m not losing out! Sun Chan is so good-looking, can cook and doundry, and can still be with me in bed, isn��t that better than holding a big fatdy?

    Of course, Ding Hu didn��t dare let Sun Lijuan know about these thoughts. Just now, he spoke so righteously, suddenly changing would make people look down on him, but he got the idea, so he gradually began to n.

    He nned to first find her in the city, then tie her up, throw her onto the bed, and once they were husband and wife, it would be easy to handle.

    With Sun Chan��s personality, she surely wouldn��t look for a second man. Although I��m not as good as that soldier, after all, I was the first one to date her. Women are supposed to be faithful to the end.

    "She shouldn��t have gone after that city person, it��s simply vanity! I need to give her a good lesson!" He spat on the ground.

    The more Ding Hu thought, the more he felt his idea was right, and he wasn��t as dispirited as before. When he returned home, he got nagged by his family.

    "Why did youe back? You don��t even know what the house is like. If you eat, we won��t have anything left to eat tomorrow!"

    He didn��t say anything, just ate some randomly, which was just some corn buns and a few cabbage and meat dumplings. He thought to himself, isn��t their poor living in the vige because everyone��szy? Shouldn��t he find a wife like Sun Chan, more diligent? Thinking like this, he went to sleep on the kang.

    fre ewebnove l

    In his dreams, he even dreamed of holding Sun Chan, but unfortunately, he woke up in excitement. He smacked his lips, nope, I have to hurry and find her. He turned over and continued to sleep. Even though the food wasn��t good, he was in a particrly good mood because of the hope.

    He already started thinking about how to prepare the rope. How to plead and confess to her.

    Ding Hu is a pure scoundrel. He always thinks about himself, never considering those he hurt, but he can��t feel it himself, only thinks God is taking care of him, giving him another hope.

    Gu Junming and Sun Chan had New Year��s Eve dinner in the vige and were going back early on the first day. The Gu Family was waiting for Gu Junming, and besides, he only had a few days of annual leave, so he had to hurry back.

    The Wang Family elders and children sent them to the door and went back, while Wang Shufen apanied them to the vige entrance.

    "Don��te back next year for New Year��s, such a hassle, you can only stay for a day." Wang Shufen felt sorry for her brother.

    Gu Junmingughed, "Isn��t this year special? Because of the child, otherwise, I could stay a few more days."

    Wang Shufen sighed, damn Ding Family!

    Ding Quan was arrested. His parents were afraid of being retaliated against by Su Minjian in the vige. They had run away early, previously iming to love their grandson so much, but they didn��t even look once? It shows they knew the inside story and wanted to sell their grandson! Actually, they were wronged, they really didn��t know.

    But whether they knew or not, having a son in jail, life in the vige was no good.

    When the three passed by Su Miao��s house, they happened to see Su Miao hurriedly running outside, almost bumping into Gu Junming��s arms, but the nearby Wang Shufen pulled her back, preventing anything bad from happening.

    All three were wondering, was this person doing it on purpose?

    Su Miao had done simr things before. Was it her way of trying to date him and failing?

    So they all gave Su Miao unfriendly looks.

    Actually, this time Su Miao wasn��t doing it on purpose. She was startled too.

    She looked up at them in a panic, "Oh, it��s you, Happy New Year."

    Gu Junming responded with a faint "Hm," this woman wasn��t good. Although not as vicious as Lijuan, simr enough, needed to be guarded against.

    Su Miao stood there, feeling very upset inside! Do you really dislike me to this extent now?

    At this time, Ding Qiuyue came out, "You hurry and apologize to your aunt! If you don��t behave, mom won��t care for you anymore!"

    Su Miao didn��t make a sound. She wasn��t having a good time these days either, with the child gone, her aunt cursing her on the kang every day.

    She still couldn��t get up, her hair a mess leaning against the kang edge, her forehead squeezed purple dots, her face ferocious, pointing at Su Miao and constantly cursing, "You��re just a fox spirit! You flirt with everyone, still want to harm my son, you��re a slut, and you still dare not admit it? You staring at me with those lewd eyes, want to curse me? I��d beat you to death!" She threw everything she could reach on the kang. Su Miao stood there silently, not daring to leave.

    If she left, Su Jinxiu would go crazy, running outside screaming. She could only endure it.

    Ding Qiuyue was guilty, not letting her daughter fight back. Treated her well with good food and drinks, but when upset, there was beating and scolding.

    So, both Su Miao and Ding Qiuyue were tormented together.

    Luckily, in the end, Gu Junming managed to rescue the child. Just a slight cough, everything else was fine.

    Originally thought that once the child was found, Su Jinxiu would calm down, but she still cursed whenever she thought about it.

    Su Minjian felt guilty toward his sister this time and didn��t say anything.

    Zhao Yingjun didn��t want his wife to speak negatively, nor did he help Su Miao.

    Just now, it was because Su Jinxiu found the water too cold when drinking and wanted to hit her, Su Miao got mad and ran out.

    She tearfully said, "I know I fought with my aunt and lost the child, but I apologized, and my aunt recovered, but she still lies on the kang every day, orders me to work, and hits and scolds me. Mom, I really can��t take it. You might as well just beat me to death!" She finished, crying sobbingly, appearing extremely pitiful, mainly wanting Gu Junming to see.

    He helped find the child, knew the inside story, it��s not my fault, nor did I tell Ding Quan to take the child.

    Ding Qiuyue was also troubled, "But what can you do now? You can only endure for now. It would be best if Brother Gu could help, after all, you are the benefactor who found the child, Jinxiu will listen to you."

    But who knew Gu Junming would say, "It��s hard for an honest official to decide family affairs. It��s inconvenient for me to interfere too much. I think, since you��re all one family, it hasn��t escted to the point where you��d turn against each other for this matter, better talk it over nicely. If Jinxiu is upset, let her say a few words, I have to catch a train, so I��ll go first."

    Gu Junming finished and left mercilessly. Sun Chan and Wang Shufen naturally wouldn��t stay either, nodded as a greeting, and left.

    Su Miao felt even more wronged, "How can he be like this!"

    "Because what you did was too much, every time you show your annoying side to Gu Junming!" Ding Qiuyue was really a bit desperate! Her daughter wasn��t stupid, why had she left such a bad impression in front of Gu Junming every time!

 Chapter 163: Two Exceptional Women

    <h4>Chapter 163: Chapter 163: Two Exceptional Women</h4><h4></h4>

    Su Miao was about to speak when Su Jinxiu inside shouted again: "Is no one taking care of me? Almost killed my child first, and now you want to kill me? Su Miao,e in here and pour me some water!"

    Su Miao gritted her teeth: "That damn shrew!"

    "Just bear with it, can you beat her up again or what? Serve her well for a few days until she leaves, then it will be over. After all, this time it��s your fault!" Ding Qiuyue patted her shoulder.

    Su Miao held back her anger and went back, poured some water and brought it over. But Su Jinxiu took it without drinking, simply coldly nced at Su Miao, then sshed the water onto Su Miao��s face and head.

    Su Miao shouted from the burn: "What are you doing?" She quickly grabbed a towel to wipe her face. This woman is a mad dog!

    Su Jinxiu sneered: "Did you use such hot water to try to harm me?"

    "You just said earlier it was too cold and you didn��t want it!"

    "So you use it this hot? I see you just deserve a beating! You got sshed but are you not satisfied?" Su Jinxiu leaned by the bed, a towel covering her forehead, with a strange smile on her lips: "Even if you��re not satisfied, what can you do about it? You seduced my husband, caused me to lose my child, none of these things can be written off like this! Go pour me another cup."

    free.webno(v)e\l.(c)om

    Su Miao red fiercely at Su Jinxiu.

    Su Jinxiu sneered: "Do you dare not obey me? Fine, in a while I��ll tell everyone in the vige that I caught you on the bed with my husband, that I lost the child because I argued with you. Let��s see who��s embarrassed! I��ll make it so you can never live in the vige again! Even my brother being the vige head can��t save you!"

    "You��re simply spewing nonsense!"

    "I��m talking nonsense, but the people in the vige believe it. We used to get along well, but why did that change? Isn��t it because you, the flirt, seduced my husband?"

    Anyway, everyone knows the two of them argued, but no one knows exactly why. If Su Jinxiu dared to say such a thing, it would meanpletely tearing our faces apart. Even if Su Miao had a hundred mouths, she couldn��t exin.

    Su Miao bit her lip, really wanted to kill her, but didn��t dare to make a scene. After all, Su Jinxiu is married, she��s not afraid, whereas Su Miao is an unmarried young woman. What can she do? She thought for a while, then just turned and walked out.

    Su Jinxiunguidlyughed on the bed: "You��re just a lowly seed, trying to be a city person? Want to be like me? Do you have that ability? I��m not as good-looking as you, not as young as you, but now I��m living in a small building, have a formal job, what about you? Can��t even find a temporary job in the city. With your character, you still want topare with me? Pah, bitch! One must have self-awareness!"

    Actually, Su Jinxiu wasn��t so mean before, but this time her husband actually brought her back to the vige. The purpose is too obvious, Zhao Yingjun values Su Miao so much. This bitch almost made her son lost, she couldn��t easily forgive her.

    Su Jinxiu deeply hates Su Miao, wants to humiliate her thoroughly. But can��t do more harmful things. Just hopes by scolding her this time she will remember and stay away from her husband.

    Su Miao is actually a cunning and cold person, outwardly shy and quiet, but full of schemes inside. She went out, grabbed a towel to wipe her face, boiled some new water, then went to her own room.

    Sat there dazed, eyes filled with vicious expression, her hand grasping her pants. This pair of blue, genuine pants. This was fabric given by Su Jinxiust year, her mother didn��t dare to cut it, and only made pants for her by New Year.

    She gave a bitter smile, what can she do? The others in the city have lots of good things.

    "Yes, I��m just poor, just climbing for high branches, just not as good as you. But I��m good-looking, better than you. Just you wait and see."

    I��ll make you lose your husband and child, make you regret for life! Dare to humiliate me?

    She gritted her teeth and thought, then went to Zhao Yingjun��s room.

    Zhao Yingjun was packing his luggage, ready to leave tomorrow.

    Zhao Yingjun found itughable too, why did hee? Made a scene, almost lost the child, wife argued with Su Miao, hit him whening back, searched for the child exhaustingly, yet had tofort his wife��s emotions. Not that he loved her much, just that this woman threatened him, saying if he dared to treat her badly, she��d directly reveal his scandal with Su Miao.

    Zhao Yingjun naturally didn��t ept: "I only talked to her a couple of times, why are you still making this fuss? Almost lost the child because of this, and you��re still stirring!"

    "Hmph! I��ve known you not for just a day or two, don��t I know what you��re thinking? Anyway, don��t push me, I��m irritated!"

    Zhao Yingjun obviously didn��t want things to blow up, had to let this woman bully Su Miao. He smoked, looked irritably out the window, better go back, there��s plenty of women in the city, what��s the fuss here for.

    At this point Su Miao walked in, he was startled for a moment, then self-deprecatingly smiled. Herees theint, right? Yeah, these two days, his wife kept bullying her, he dared not advise.

    Who knew, Su Miao came in and smiled at him: "Uncle Zhao is leaving, right?"

    "Yes, Miao Miao, have a seat."

    Su Miao shook her hand with a smile: "Forget it, I won��t sit. I��ve got the water boiling for my aunt, she wants to drink. This is for you."

    Turns out it was the money Zhao Yingjun had given before. Zhao Yingjun frowned slightly: "This is..."

    "This was the money you lent me before, I was in a hurry to leave at the time, couldn��t return it, who thought you��de? I can return the money now. I caused some trouble while staying at your ce, it was all my ignorance, can��t me others. I was overestimating myself, insisted on staying and being a nuisance." She finished and choked up.

    Her originally beautiful face now had a pitiful look.

    Zhao Yingjun was instantly moved: "This is... don��t cry." If it wasn��t in someone else��s ce, he might have embraced her.

    "I won��t say much else. No matter what, I��m an unmarried girl who will have to get married. Aunt said such things about me just to ruin me, I won��t appear around you them this lifetime, just hope she leaves me alone. After all, we didn��t do anything bad at that time, right? I was just thinking it��s good to have someone care for me since I��m alone outside, who thought aunt would think otherwise. I��m really..." She stopped, sobbing, extremely pitiful, gave Zhao Yingjun a deep look, and turned to leave.

    ```

 Chapter 164 Pedal

    <h4>Chapter 164: Chapter 164 Pedal</h4><h4></h4>

    Zhao Yingjun grabbed her: "Don��t go! It��s all my fault, I couldn��t protect you..."

    But Su Miao wouldn��t listen at all. She suddenly pushed him away, tears streaming down her face, she sobbed, "Let��s just leave it like this! Don��t harm me anymore. The nicer you are to me, the more aunt wants to ruin me! I��m so foolish, insisting on..." After she finished speaking, she turned and walked out without looking back.

    Zhao Yingjun stood there, stunned by her ambiguous words before she left. What did she mean by this? Insisting on me... Could it be she has feelings for me?

    Su Miao��s beautiful face, her soft figure, such a woman��s admiration made Zhao Yingjun feel on cloud nine.

    It wasn��t until Su Minjian came in calling out a few times that Zhao Yingjun snapped back to reality.

    "Brother!" He felt embarrassed, yet there was an elusive sense of pride in his heart.

    "What are you thinking about?"

    "Nothing, I��m just thinking that we��re leaving tomorrow, hoping my child doesn��t catch a cold, also worrying about my wife��s health."

    "This time you��re really in for it! Oh, remember to wear extra clothes. I��ll bring two small quilts for you." Su Minjian had built up some camaraderie with him while looking for the child together recently. He handed Zhao Yingjun a cigarette and lit one for himself, seemingly having something to say but unable to start.

    Then Zhao Yingjun said, "Brother, is there something you need to say? Just say it, no need to hold back given our rtionship."

    "Well, what I want to talk about is Miao Miao��s matter."

    Zhao Yingjun felt a pang in his heart: "What��s the matter?"

    "Your wife��s attitude towards her, you��ve seen it. This time the child got lost and the situation has be too big. Now there are already some gossip in the vige. This is not good. I also don��t want her to stay in the vige, but with so many people spreading rumors that she was the one who lost the child, it��s not good. I��m thinking maybe she should go away for a while. But you know, our family has stayed in the countryside our whole lives, how do we handle this!"

    Zhao Yingjun was ecstatic; since Su Miao has feelings for him, having her by his side wouldn��t be a bad thing.

    He said, "Since niece has such a thought, I��ll go back and ask our boss. I��ve heard that some good units are hiring temporary workers recently."

    "Hmm, but your wife and my daughter are always fighting, I��m afraid it won��t work. She wouldn��t agree."

    Su Minjian was also feeling dejected, having been strong all his life yet never having begged anyone before. Saying this was embarrassing, but seeing his daughter crying and then being chased out by his sister left her aggrieved.

    Ding Qiuyue told Su Minjian their daughter must not stay in the vige: "With such ugly rumors spreading, how can she find a partner? It��s better for her to leave for a while and thene back. Your sister bullies your daughter, I can��t say much. But since Su Miao isn��t married, I��m afraid people will gossip in the vige, what if she can��t take it?"

    After listening to his wife, Su Minjian came over seeking help.

    Correct content is on

    Zhao Yingjun said: "Don��t worry, brother. I��ll arrange for her to stay in ourpany dormitory. Although I can��t be considered someone with great abilities, arranging a job should be no problem."

    Zhao Yingjun had never liked countryside people, and hadn��t interacted with them before. Otherwise, the other time Su Miao wouldn��t have begged Gu Junming to help arrange for a job. This time Zhao Yingjun volunteered to propose, and he arranged good jobs.

    Su Minjian suppressed his inner excitement, awkwardly saying, "How could this be good, it��s already troubling you, this time it was all because of my daughter��s mistake..."

    "This wasn��t Su Miao��s fault, it was my wife who was unreasonable. Both were at fault, how can you just me your daughter? Moreover, when my son got lost, you also exerted yourself, we are a family, if not help her who to help? Just don��t tell Xiu��er about this, I��m afraid she��d not understand and stir trouble, anyway they won��t be living together, if she doesn��t see, she won��t think more."

    Su Minjian said, "I understand, we��ll keep it quiet. Her temper isn��t good, you bear with her. Actually, she wasn��t like this before. Perhaps it��s due to losing the child recently, she��s stressed."

    These two were, of course, talking about Su Jinxiu.

    "Don��t worry, I��ll call the vigemittee, once the notification is received, it��s settled."

    Su Minjian continuously agreed, relieved after arranging his daughter��s job situation. As he went out, he let out a long breath of relief. Ding Qiuyue was just taking out a cabbage from the cer, seeing her husband��s expression, she hurriedly asked: "How is it?"

    Su Minjian whispered to her.

    Ding Qiuyue was so excited she almost fainted, it��s done!

    Zhao Yingjun really is good!

    What he can arrange is naturally excellent ces, not where ordinary people can go! Like departments of public security, banks, taxation authorities, even as temporary work is fine. If my daughter can be a city person, the marriage prospects would be easily dealt with!

    Meanwhile, Su Miao stood by the window, a smile on her lips. She understood the reason Zhao Yingjun agreed to arrange a job for her wasn��t just her father��s pleading but more due to her earlier disy of weakness and ambiguous confession. Are men always so confident? Thinking that if you act this way, I like you?

    I must stand out, Zhao Yingjun is nothing, just a stepping stone, I will use him to find someone better, wait and see.

    As for Su Jinxiu, she didn��t regard her at all.

    On thest evening that Zhao Yingjun and his wife were staying here, Ding Qiuyue made a big dinner, being extremely enthusiastic, even helped amuse the child, showing great ttery in her demeanor.

    Su Miao imed she was tired and ufortable, so simply stayed out. Su Jinxiu was quite pleased, thinking to herself, this wretch finally got sensible, doesn��t dare unt in front of my husband, still afraid I��d expose her am I?

    Little did she know Su Miao didn��t want to cause any trouble before leaving, making Zhao Yingjun change his mind.

    Zhao Yingjun, Su Minjian, and Ding Qiuyue naturally wouldn��t speak of it. A pleasant meal was had.

    Early the next day, they took the child and left. Su Minjian had a matter in the vigemittee, so didn��t see them off.

    Before departing, Su Miao came out too, Su Jinxiu ignored her.

    Su Miao stood at a distance, wearing a pink cotton jacket, blue pants below, a snow-white scarf wrapped around her neck, her eyes tenderly nced at Zhao Yingjun. She said nothing, just slightly nodded at Zhao Yingjun, then turned and went back inside.

    Ding Qiuyue sighed, "This girl, she��s feeling shy, Xiu��er, don��t be angry, I��ll speak to herter."

    "It��s okay, sister-inw, but nowadays Miao Miao isn��t young anymore, it��s better to find someone and get married. Otherwise, staying at home too long, trouble is bound to arise." Su Jinxiu��s mouth was sharp enough to offer no face at all.

 Chapter 165: Sarcasm

    <h4>Chapter 165: Chapter 165: Sarcasm</h4><h4></h4>

    Ding Qiuyue just smiled without speaking, cursing countless profanities in her heart.

    Zhao Yingjun frowned without saying a word, holding the child and walking ahead.

    "Wait! Why are you walking so fast?" Su Jinxiu followed him.

    Once the figures were gone, Ding Qiuyue spat on the ground, "Pah! Nasty woman, bullying my daughter, let��s see how you end up!"

    Su Miao took off her clothes at home and leaned against the quilt stack on the kang. Originally, she wanted to take a nap, but unexpectedly, she found a letter under the quilt and smiled when she nced at it.

    It was written by Zhao Yingjun, not bad. It said: I��ll arrange a good job for you.

    Inside the envelope was the money Su Miao had returned to him.

    Su Miao unapologetically took the money and then burned the letter, casually looking out the window. The weather was nice, and spring wasing. The various households in the vige had quieted down.

    Gu Junming and Sun Chan returned to the Gu Family, just in time for Gu Juntao to bring his partner here for the New Year.

    Yan Kai came along, ying chess with Gu Zishan.

    Yang Hongying was quite diligent, helping with picking vegetables over by the kitchen. The two men were in a good mood, but Wang Guihua��s face was waxy yellow, looking much more haggard, clearly just recovering from a serious illness. Her expression was also unpleasant, like someone owed her two hundred bucks.

    In fact, she had been lying in bed all morning, unwilling to move, and it was Gu Zishan who forcibly got her up.

    "No matter how it is, the second daughter-inw is here for the holiday, and you, as the mother-inw, lying there like this, is it right?"

    Wang Guihua, angry, hit her husband with a pillow, "Leave me alone! I��ve already epted this damn daughter-inw, isn��t that enough? Do I have to put on a smiling face for her? Kowtow to her? Why should I?"

    "Because you are thedy of the house, Dad can��te back from the army, and today Yan Kai is here. What does it look like for you to be lying here! Come down immediately, or we��ll get a divorce!"

    Wang Guihua was almost angered to death by her husband but had no choice. It��s not the right time to quarrel with him, especially concerning their son. What if he leaves home again!

    "Hurry down! Don��t make me drag you down!" Gu Zishan snorted and left in a huff.

    Though he was awkward at the beginning, after some time, he epted it. It��s already like this, so can they really divorce?

    Besides, Yan Kai is a good man. Marrying Yang Hongying means they have secured a good one. Also, he knows exactly what his second son is like. Being able to marry Yang Hongying is already impressive. She��s pretty and considerate, nothing to criticize.

    Wang Guihua, frustrated, cried for a while but still tidied up and came downstairs.

    Yang Hongying nervously looked upstairs, and when she saw hering down, she shyly greeted her. She was very nervous, knowing her actions had really irked her mother-inw. Yan Kai also hurried over.

    Wang Guihua nced at Yang Hongying and said, "You��re here?"

    "Yes. Auntie... no, mom. I was wrong, I��m sorry."

    Gu Juntao quickly presented a bag of things, "Mom, this is something your daughter-inw brought for you."

    "Hmm." Wang Guihua drooped her eyelids, not even ncing at the stuff, "I don��t have the strength to speak these days, you don��t need to treat me so well either, I��m just a dying old woman, don��t bother. If I die, you can live happily ever after."

    "Enough!" Gu Zishan suppressed his anger, "Since you��ve epted this matter, don��t spout nonsense! Isn��t it unlucky to say such things during the New Year!"

    Wang Guihua stopped speaking and just sat on the sofa. After a while, she said some cold words, basically beating around the bush, making it very ufortable for everyone.

    Finally, Gu Zishan couldn��t stand it, "Aren��t you cooking? Making everyone starve on New Year��s?"

    "Haven��t I already got a daughter-inw? Why should I do the cooking?"

    "I��ll do it then." Yang Hongying hurriedly went to the kitchen to cook. The aunt was picking vegetables while watching Yang Hongying, thinking to herself, who knows how the future will be, this girl is quite pitiful.

    Not long after, Sun Chan and Gu Junming arrived, and they also brought some things, drinks and health products bought on the way. Wang Guihua was indifferent to the two, but because of her resentment towards Yang Hongying, she was especially warm towards Sun Chan and Gu Junming.

    ???????????????????????.?????

    "Coming all this way and still bringing things? We��re family, no need for this, right? Junming, you must treat Sun Chan well, it��s hard for her as a girl, seeing her makes my heart ache."

    Gu Juntao frowned slightly but didn��t speak. Yan Kai smiled faintly, this woman really doesn��t like Yang Hongying, but luckily the two families don��t live together, or I wouldn��t be at ease. Only Gu Junming remained calmly silent, his expression tranquil.

    Sun Chan felt particrly ufortable and said to Wang Guihua, then went to the kitchen to help.

    Wang Guihua said, "No need for you! You��re the apple of Junming��s eye, sit down and chat with Auntie. This girl, the more I look, the better. Beautiful and simple. I just like you like this, much better than those unpresentable ones. By the way, how��s it going back to the vige for New Year?"

    "Pretty good."

    "Did the widow from the east side of the vige get married? That woman is not great, clinging to any good man she sees, so annoying. I heard it from Zishan. Didn��t he go there once?"

    Sun Chan nced at Gu Junming awkwardly.

    Gu Junming said, "I haven��t heard about it, we only mind our own business, other people��s matters, we��re not interested."

    In the kitchen, Yang Hongying��s eyes reddened, tears about to fall.

    Gu Zishan was almost enraged, saying under his breath, "Enough, no one will think you��re mute if you don��t speak!"

    "How can you say that! I��m just fostering rtionships, aren��t you satisfied, what more do you want?" Wang Guihua gritted her teeth too.

    Sun Chan had already stood up, "I��ll go help, Auntie, you sit first."

    She went into the kitchen, seeing the nanny washing rice, with Yang Hongying wiping her eyes, she pretended not to see and helped to pick vegetables.

    During this time, Yan Kai acted as if he knew nothing; he still hoped his sister could live a good life, so he didn��t help or speak up. Seeing Gu Juntao��s apologetic expression, he thought, at least you understand.

    The two had met only once before, very unfamiliar, but now their identities had changed. They were going to be sisters-inw, so despite the awkwardness, they still started chatting.

    Hearing that Yang Hongying and Gu Juntao had already registered for marriage, Sun Chan was shocked. That was fast!

    Yang Hongying felt quite bashful and said to Sun Chan, "We didn��t hold a wedding, isn��t it bad?"

    "What��s bad about it?" Sun Chan skillfully picked green beans, "Gu Junming and I also agreed, we��ll just invite people to a meal, there��s no need for a big event."

 Chapter 166: Ways of Love

    <h4>Chapter 166: Chapter 166: Ways of Love</h4><h4></h4>

    Yang Hongying sighed, "I know my mother-inw doesn��t like me; what she said really hurt. She seems to quite like you."

    Sun Chan pointed outside, "Does she really like me? She��s just trying to annoy you. Don��t let it get to you. You know my background, you��re a city person, you were in the army, and you have your brother. I��m an orphan from the vige, without connections or money. They surely dislike me, but we��re kindred spirits. Luckily, our partners love us sincerely and consistently. So we are happy."

    Yang Hongying blushed slightly. Indeed! If it were anyone else being opposed by their family like this, they would have given up long ago. Gu Juntao chased after her from so far away and even retired from the army for her sake, he was a good one, which made her feel better.

    The two daughters-inw and an aunt cooked together. The chicken, duck, fish, and meat were prepared in advance, so they were served soon. Mr. Yan and Gu Dongfang weren��t there, so there was no need to worry about health issues. Some oily dishes were also served.

    Braised pork, scallion stir-fried pork, and steamed pork, rare to see on the table, were served, making Gu Zishan and Yan Kai, who loved meat, very happy.

    "You actually know I like this!" Gu Zishanughed as he ate a big piece of braised pork.

    Yang Hongyingughed and said, "Jun Tao said you like this meat dish the most, so I learned it specially."

    "Great, not bad." Gu Zishan gave a thumbs up.

    "Mom, this is what you like, the crispy fried purple mushrooms. Try it."

    Wang Guihua hummed in response, picked up a piece of garlic sprout, and started eating. Yang Hongying bit her lip, and Gu Juntao patted her back, picking some dishes for her, "Eat what you like."

    "Okay." Yang Hongying forced a smile.

    Yan Kai saw Sun Chan only eat cold sd and shredded potatoes, andughed, "Afraid of getting fat?"

    Sun Chan said, "No, I��ve been eating too much meat these days, feeling a bit greasy, it��s nothing."

    Gu Junming poured a cup of tea for her, "Drink this, it will relieve the greasiness."

    Sun Chan smiled, took it and drank.

    Gu Zishan thought to himself, truly from a poor family, couldn��t handle even a bit of meat. The head daughter-inw was like this, Gu Family��s luck must be bad, right?

    The meal was tasteless and uneventful, asionally Wang Guihua would say some sharp words, but everyone ignored them.

    Gu Junming saw Sun Chan almost finished eating, so he put down his chopsticks.

    "Finished eating? Let��s go back then, it��s dark already." After such a long train ride, hardly rested, and ate such a tiring meal, he wanted to go back quickly to rest.

    Sun Chan hurriedly stood up, she was done long ago.

    Wang Guihuaughed, "Leaving already? Stay a bit longer."

    "No, my vacation is almost over, I��ll take her home first, I need to go back to the army."

    "Alright then, visit when you have time! I��m always weing you here." Wang Guihua was very enthusiastic, Gu Zishan was very calm. Just gave his wife a fierce re.

    Yan Kai bid farewell too, and gave Gu Junming a look, obviously wanting to talk.

    The three of them left, Wang Guihua went upstairs, ignoring Yang Hongying and Gu Juntao.

    Gu Zishan nodded to the couple, "Clean up and rest early. Stay here and don��t leave tonight."

    Yang Hongying agreed, watching her father go upstairs.

    Gu Zishan closed the door and started quarreling with his wife, "Can we continue living like this? If not, we should separate then. Two sons, why is your attitude like this? Talking about widows in the vige, what will Gu Juntao and his wife think?"

    Wang Guihua sneered, "Nothing I say is right? Your temper improved after having a daughter-inw? Or do you think having Yan Kai will get you another promotion? Unfortunately, there��s nothing for you to sell out this time. You can��t get promoted with your abilities!" She regretted it after saying it, these issues were old news, yet she brought them up again.

    "What did you say?" Gu Zishan raised his hand to hit, his eyes almost popping out. What nonsense is this woman saying!

    Wang Guihua stiffened her neck, bringing her face closer, "Go ahead! Hit me!"

    Gu Zishan didn��t hit her eventually, pointed at her nose, "Watch your words, no one is a fool who can��t understand your meaning. Yang Hongying is our family��s daughter-inw now, if you act like this again, get out!"

    "Why should I get out? Without me, would the Gu Family be here now? You want to sacrifice my son to please Yan Kai? Shameless, I just won��t be nice to Yang Hongying, let��s see what you can do?"

    Gu Zishan almost flipped the table hearing these words; when did he rely on Yan Kai to get promoted?

    The two had a heated argument.

    Downstairs, Yang Hongying was terrified. Though she didn��t know what was said, apparently, they were fighting.

    Gu Juntao held her hand, "Let��s get some rest."

    "But upstairs..."

    "Isn��t it because they��re dissatisfied with us? What else could it be?" Gu Juntao didn��t care at all, took her hand into a room on the first floor.

    Yang Hongying anxiously thought about the two upstairs, wondering if they would start fighting. Just as she was thinking, she was suddenly hugged by Gu Juntao. His hands weren��t idle either.

    "What are you doing?"

    "Wife, I miss you..." Gu Juntao��s voice was muffled, kissing her chin and neck.

    Yang Hongying was nervous and frightened, what��s wrong with this person, upstairs they��re so chaotic, yet you��re... What if something happened upstairs, wouldn��t we have to go up?

    But she couldn��t struggle free, Gu Juntao hugged her and fell onto the bed, pressing on her.

    At this moment, upstairs there was a thump, like a chair falling to the ground.

    The two froze for a moment, Yang Hongying blinked, "What happened?"

    Gu Juntao dared not move, waited for a moment, then kissed her lips, "Nothing."

    After a while, there was no response from upstairs, things calmed down.

    Gu Juntao continued, he was happy, but pitiful Yang Hongying didn��t enjoy it at all, staring at the ceiling the whole time, afraid of more sounds, but fortunately, it finally quieted down. She sighed with relief and hugged Gu Juntao tightly.

    "You won��t change your heart, will you?"

    "Silly. I��ll be good to you for a lifetime. Why else would I marry you?" Gu Juntao felt bad for his wife, getting bullied by his own mom today, he didn��t know how else tofort her, only actions could prove it. Also thought, maybe having a child would improve things?

    Upstairs, Gu Zishan cleaned up the messy room, red at Wang Guihua, and left with a quilt.

    The two had a fight, Wang Guihua grabbed the chair, almost hit his head, shattered it. It was the first time Gu Zishan slept apart from her, going to the old man��s room.

 Chapter 167: Pleading

    <h4>Chapter 167: Chapter 167: Pleading</h4>

    Wang Guihua slumped onto the bed, feeling very regretful, wondering why she had to bring up that matter. Time has passed, even if he had betrayed others for gain back then, which was disgraceful, it was also a forced situation. Besides, he had been feeling guilty all these years and had been doing good deeds to make amends.

    Why did I have to mention it? No wonder he was so angry.

    But I didn��t want to say all this, it was all Yang Hongying��s doing. If it weren��t for her, would I have quarreled with Old Gu? Would I have said such things in a fit of anger?

    It��s all her fault! Wang Guihua was even more annoyed with Yang Hongying.

    Yang Hongying knew Wang Guihua didn��t have a good impression of her, so early the next morning, after a simple breakfast, she said her goodbyes, and Jun Tao left together with her.

    The atmosphere at home was suffocating, he felt it best toe back less often until his mother could ept Yang Hongying.

    Gu Zishan didn��t say much; he couldn��t keep his eldest son, let alone this younger son whom he hadn��t really ced hopes on. Let them be.

    "What��s the rush? Juntao, how long are you going to keep sulking? This is your home, where else are you going to go?" Wang Guihua looked at Yang Hongying with some dissatisfaction, thinking, this bitch has stolen my son away!

    Yang Hongying, terrified, kept her head down, not daring to meet her mother-inw��s eyes.

    Gu Juntao didn��t like her attitude, and calmly said, "Mom, my work assigned me to be on duty this afternoon. The apartment I rent is closer to my workce, so it��s more convenient to go back. I��lle back to see you in a couple of days."

    "You��ve found a wife and forgotten your mother, huh! Juntao, you��re only twenty, and you��re neglecting your mom?"

    "Mom, I��ll be twenty-three this New Year. I��m not a child anymore. I can live independently, don��t worry."

    Wang Guihua wanted to say more, but Gu Zishan gave her a stern look and said to them, "Alright, you two go back. Give me a call if you need anything. Do you have enough money?"

    Yang Hongying and Gu Juntao exchanged a nce, not expecting their father to say that.

    "It��s enough, Dad. Yang Hongying and I have saved up a bit."

    "There��s no need to be polite with us. You two got married without a word, and you probably don��t have much for furniture and such? Go take a thousand yuan for them." Gu Zishan said coldly to Wang Guihua.

    Wang Guihua was extremely unwilling: "Where am I supposed to get money at this time of year? The banks are closed, I only have two hundred yuan on me, take it." She��d be willing to give her son ten thousand, but when she thought of that woman, she didn��t want to give even a penny. Why should I spend money on that widow!

    Gu Zishan suddenly stood up, seeming about to explode in anger, scaring Wang Guihua so much her shoulders stiffened: "You, what are you doing?"

    In the end, Gu Zishan held back his anger: "I told you to take the money, go get it. Isn��t there money in the bottom drawer in the upstairs cab?"

    Wang Guihua, legs weak from fear at her husband��s gaze, still went upstairs to get the money. Damn it, how does he know where I hide my private stash? And he hasn��t acted like this in years! Last night��s words really stirred him up.

    Yang Hongying was, of course, very embarrassed, declined to ept it, but in the end, Gu Zishan forced it into her hand.

    "Take it! You two alreadypromised by not having a wedding. Buy whatever you need!"

    "Okay, thank you, Dad." Yang Hongying choked up.

    Gu Zishan nodded, Wang Guihua was filled with hatred yet said nothing, only her eyes were frightening.

    The two of them left the Gu Family��s courtyard together, Yang Hongying breathed a sigh of relief, nearly sitting on the ground, and was supported by Gu Juntao.

    "Are you alright? You were that scared?"

    "I��m fine. It��s just that I think your parents are both... both..."

    "Both have bad tempers?" Gu Juntao��s mouth curled up: "Don��t worry, neither of them are bad people; it��s just that they couldn��t ept it at the moment. See, my dad has already epted you; it��s just my mom left. I know how to coax her. Let��s go watch a movie."

    "But you have to work overtime."

    "I was lying. How else could we leave? Now that Dad has supported us with so much money, you can return the money we borrowed from Brother Yan Kai."

    Yang Hongying nodded: "Yeah. I feel embarrassed too, he��s helped enough already, it��s awkward to borrow money from him."

    Finding a ce, sorting work, rice, noodles, grain, and oil, Yan Kai helped with all of it. It really feels bad to trouble him any further.

    "Let��s go, wife, let��s go watch a movie." Gu Juntao smiled as he wrapped his arm around her waist, she blushed and struggled: "Stop it. People are watching!"

    "Who cares? We��re a married couple! Actually, not being in the military is great; we can be as intimate as we want. It��s really nice." Before, when both of them wore uniforms, they didn��t even dare to hold hands. Now they can be so open!

    "You..." Yang Hongying struggled but eventually went along with Gu Juntao.

    As long as it wasn��t rted to the Gu Family��s affairs, the rtionship between the two was still good. They watched a movie together, bought some things, and went back home to count. They took out the three hundred-plus yuan they had borrowed from Yan Kai earlier, ready to return it to him.

    At this time, Yan Kai was sitting with Gu Junming in a superior��s office, looking very serious.

    Yesterday they went out together, and Yan Kai told Gu Junming something, that was about the child trafficking case in the vige before. Ding Quan and some others indeed partnered in trafficking children and were rightly arrested. But there was a person in this case, the buyer, whose identity was rather different.

    The person was a rtive of a well-connected military district leader. After being taken away, he imed not to know about the child trafficking. He said he just wanted to adopt a child, as the couple had been married for years without having children, and wanted to adopt a smart and young child. Knowing that the countryside had many poor families with many children, they asked for help to find one, and gave some money as a nutritional fee, as it was customary when adopting children from the vige, which wasn��t buying and selling.

    "He just wanted to give some symbolic money, but the other party thought he was buying a child, which caused this trouble. That person went through several connections and asked me to request you to write a statement, saying this matter has nothing to do with this buyer."

    Gu Junming remained silent, seemingly lost in thought.

    Sun Chan also said nothing, knowing she was not involved in this matter and it was not her ce toment.

    "What do you really think, do you want to let him go, or not?" Yan Kai also didn��t want to get involved, as he wasn��t one to favor backdoor dealings. But this time, the person asking for a favor had a significant background, and he had no choice but to speak up.

    "Actually, this matter..." Gu Junming slightly frowned, then said, "If what he said is true, it doesn��t really count as a crime, but I always feel things won��t be that simple."

 Chapter 168: The Problems Detected

    <h4>Chapter 168: Chapter 168: The Problems Detected</h4>

    After pausing for a moment and seeing Yan Kai remain silent, Gu Junming continued, "He paid tens of thousands, supposedly to help that poor family. Isn��t tens of thousands too much? I think he��s just making excuses. And considering so many people, the quick operations, and the transportation provided, I don��t believe it��s just an isted case."

    Yan Kai became alert, "Do you mean there��s a gang involved?"

    Gu Junming said, "When we arrested these people, I specifically looked at their testimony. The ones below like Ding Quan, I found that none of them knew much, but the ones higher up clearly had been doing this often. And when we chased the children to a ce, the vigers even confronted us with daggers, clearly feeling untouchable. We can��t cover up just because that person is a rtive of a leader, or else many families�� children will suffer."

    Sun Chan silently nodded in agreement; it was exactly like this. In her past life, she seemed to have heard about how many people stole children from remote viges, and these children were bought by some people with money.

    "Are these children being sent to those families in the South without good kids?"

    Sun Chan said, "I��ve heard that some are rtively lucky and can go to good families, even be adopted abroad, but most children suffer greatly. Some say people buy children specifically to teach them to steal, rob, andmit crimes. Some had their legs broken and were made into beggars, performers, and some were used for organ transntation. Some girls grew up and fell into hell."

    Such a scene persisted even until the time she was about to die, with not much improvement; it was still frequently said that such situations urred in remote viges, scaring vigers so much they didn��t even dare to send their children to school.

    Gu Junming nced at Sun Chan, and Sun Chan said, "Did I say something excessive? I��m just a bit worried." She had heard that a very smart child from a neighboring vige was abducted, and yearster became deformed while begging in the city. Although pitiable, his parents no longer recognized him. They acted like he was dead.

    "You might be right," Gu Junming said. "Our decisions could affect many people, so we can��t act recklessly."

    Yan Kai initially thought it was just a matter of giving face and making a statement, but he didn��t expect it to be so serious!

    Thinking it over, Yan Kai said, "Don��t misunderstand me; I��m not asking you to be partial. If it��s that serious, we should report it to the higher-ups. Hopefully, it��s all a misunderstanding, but if something doese up rted to this person, we can��t just ignore it."

    "Okay, let��s go together tomorrow."

    With that, the two didn��t have the mood to talk anymore and simply parted ways.

    Returning to the house, Sun Chan found the room clean, knowing it was Guihua and Yang Liu who often helped out.

    Sun Chan started the stove, made some food, and ate with Gu Junming, then simply settled down to sleep, naturally still in separate rooms.

    The two were exhausted from several days of hard work and could finally sleep well, resting soundly.

    The next day early, Gu Junming and Yan Kai went to see the leadership.

    The leader, hearing such spection, took it seriously but did not hastily act: "That rtive is Mr. Yang��s nephew."

    "Mr. Yang? The one transferred from Beijing?"

    "That��s right. He��s well-connected; without solid evidence, offending him could be troublesome. I think you should try to find more evidence."

    Yan Kai remained silent, thinking, it��s really a troublesome matter!

    Gu Junming asked, "Where is this person right now?"

    "Currently, he��s at Mr. Yang��s home," Yan Kai said. "Probably worried about being caught, so he��s found someone to protect him."

    The group hesitated. They couldn��t just go and arrest someone, could they?

    Gu Junming said, "Then let��s go have a look. It��s the New Year, and we should visit the elders."

    The leader��s eyes lit up, "Exactly! I happened to study with him before, I��ll go with you! I should have some influence, right?"

    Gu Junming smiled, and the leader��s face turned serious, "What? Worried I��ll take credit from you?"

    Yan Kai said, "Leader, you misunderstand us. We��re all worried that if there truly is an issue, then fine, but if there isn��t, you��ll be in the same boat with us, and offending Mr. Yang could mean trouble, like getting penalized or facing retaliation."

    "Nonsense! We��re only visiting for New Year; we��re not saying we��re doing anything. There can��t be that much to it. Get ready, let��s go. Oh, grab something from the room next to mine, nothing too expensive."

    Yan Kai and Gu Junming immediately stood to salute.

    Both knew clearly that this time the risks were high; without evidence, they couldn��t just arrest anyone.

    Sun Chan had already gone to the inn, then saw Yang Liu outside sweeping snow. Seeing Sun Chan returning, she waved joyfully.

    "You��re back?"

    Yang Liu was wearing a green cotton jacket and a white scarf, giving off a vibrant feel, making her skin appear even fairer. After the New Year, she had grown into a youngdy.

    "Did you know? It��s us who helped sell your fruits, and business was great! I��ll give you the ountster."

    Sun Chanughed, "That��s great! Thank you!"

    "Just a thank you verbally? No real action?" Yang Liuughed.

    Sun Chan jokingly took her broom, "I��ll help you sweep the snow!"

    "No! I want you to cook me a delicious meal today. I love your dishes the most."

    "Alright then." Sun Chan stood there chatting with her, and then Guihua came out too. She had been resting for several days; today was her first day back at work. Seeing Sun Chan also made her happy, and she joined in their conversation,ughing a bit.

    "Han Dong came yesterday and left when he saw you weren��t here," Guihuaughed.

    Sun Chan nodded, "Really? Is he busy over the New Year?"

    "Probably busy? I didn��t ask. He dashed off like a monkey when he saw you weren��t there."

    Yang Liu, hearing Han Dong��s name, felt a bit disappointed. Last time, running into Han Dong, her heart had been set on him, but Han Dong evidently had no intention towards her, caring more about Sun Chan. He came, heard Sun Chan wasn��t there, and turned to leave.

    Yang Liu felt a bit sad, but didn��t dare show it.

    After all, in such matters, girls should be a bit reserved.

    Sun Chan was oblivious, but Guihua could see clearly and found a chance to pull her aside, whispering, "When will you talk to Han Dong? If it��s not going to work out, it��s better early before Yang Liu falls too deep. Matters of the heart, who can really say?"

    Sun Chan nodded, "Even I��m not sure about Han Dong��s feelings."

    "You really don��t know?"

    "Really don��t know."

    Guihua wanted to make a few jokes, but considering Sun Chan was already engaged, she decided against it. Besides, it wouldn��t be good if Yang Liu found out.

 Chapter 169: Enemies on a Narrow Road

    <h4>Chapter 169: Chapter 169: Enemies on a Narrow Road</h4>

    Guihua and Yang Liu took out the ounts and money from sales while she was away and gave them to her. Sun Chan felt embarrassed. She wanted to share some with Guihua and Yang Liu, but was refused.

    "You��ve helped my shop a lot too."

    Yang Liuughed, "That��s right, we��re sisters, let��s not talk about it. But you really need to study hard, weren��t you saying you wanted to apply for the TV University?"

    Sun Chan said a bit sheepishly, "Yeah, if you hadn��t mentioned it, I��d have forgotten. I haven��t been studying at all these days!"

    "Oh, by the way, those irons you saved up before can be sold now, right? I heard that the price has increased; it��s selling for one yuan a pound!" Guihuaughed.

    Sun Chan chuckled, "I��ll wait a bit longer to sell, I��m not in a rush."

    In her previous life, she vaguely remembered that the highest price could reach one yuan and thirty-four cents, so she wasn��t nning to sell now. The money from her vige could fetch quite a sum, effectively bing an unexpected fortune.

    At this point, Guihua again brought up her wasteful husband, Wang Dabao, "That guy had the nerve toe to our house during the Chinese New Year, saying he wanted to apologize and hoped I��d return home. Ugh! With things like this, how could I possibly forgive him! My brothers all chased him out together."

    "What happened afterwards?"

    "Who knows, they say he went out of town, saying he��de back to show me what he��s achieved. Who wants to see that! Even if he became the president, it would have nothing to do with me. I despise men who are fickle, he can��t be wanted, you all should be careful too. You can��t want someone who is so promiscuous." Guihua said bluntly.

    Sun Chan justughed, Gu Junming wasn��t that kind of person. Yang Liu listened and felt a bit moved, again thinking about Han Dong, who was said to be promiscuous as well, feeling confused, but also knowing it probably couldn��t work out.

    They entered the inn, Sun Chan looked at her shop, inside were fruits sent by Han Dong, along with tomatoes and cucumbers, even sweet potatoes. Seeing these things, she was stunned.

    "I bought these." Yang Liuughed, "Don��t you have a stove here? When there��s nothing to do, you can roast a couple, or throw in a couple of potatoes to eat, they��re very sweet. I��m very fond of them."

    As they were speaking, people started arriving outside, some wanting to buy fruit, others needing a room, everyone started getting busy and stopped talking. Sun Chan sat there waiting for Gu Junming, unsure how his matters were progressing.

    She didn��t know, Ding Hu from the vige had already set off, calcting on the train how to possess her, not just her body but also her money and shop, all needed to be acquired. Now Sun Chan had be Ding Hu��sst shortcut to changing his current situation, so he was determined to seed.

    Meanwhile, Sun Lijuan went to Liu Mei��s house, pretending to borrow an ax, knowing Ding Hu went to visit rtives, aware that her incitement had taken effect? Heh, Sun Chan, damn bitch! Hope by the next meeting you��re dead too, I��ve been unlucky, can you stay well? She nned to go see Sun Chan��s plight in a couple of days, and get some money from Ding Hu to spend. At that time, he definitely wouldn��t dare to make a fuss.

    Gu Junming and Yan Kai went to the Yang Family, where the old man was a well-known distinguished figure in Beijing, who came with a special mission, living in a much better ce than the familypound of the Gu Family.

    Gu Junming and Yan Kai went along with their leader, registered their names, and waited a long time before going in together. The area of the vi wasrge, outside it looked very simple, even though it was winter, outside the courtyard were lush pine and cypress trees, all green, giving a fresh feeling.

    As they entered, Gu Junming saw a man in his fifties sitting over there, with sharp eyes, clearly a wise and intelligent elder. Next to him was a man in his thirties, gentle, wearing gold-rimmed sses, precisely the ultimate buyer of trafficked children on this asion. He imed he wanted to adopt.

    "You��vee?" The man stood up, shaking hands with Yan Kai and Gu Junming��s superior, "Old Song, long time no see."

    Old Songughed, "Indeed, I heard you were spending the New Year here, came specially to visit. This is..."

    "This is my distant rtive, Zhao Feitian."

    This person had seen Gu Junming earlier, when he saw him now, his expression didn��t change, then heughed, "Hello, we��ve met that day."

    "That day?" Mr. Yang frowned slightly, "What happened?"

    "There was a misunderstanding. Didn��t I want to adopt a child with my wife, so I asked someone to find a family in the vige with poor conditions and many children, thinking it could help. Who knew it turned into an incident. This one is Gu Junming, the hero who rescued the child."

    Mr. Yang smiled slightly, "You are Gu Junming? The hero of the disaster area? I��m Yang Xiong. This earthquake has been hard on you."

    "Thank you, Chief, for your praise. I am a soldier, this is what I should do!" Gu Junming saluted, without being affected by the presence of the famous person.

    Yan Kai��s eyes dimmed, thinking, this time Gu Junming really gained fame, the higher-ups all know about him, how sessful could I be now? His heart started pounding. Yet outwardly calm, he greeted Yang Xiong.

    Yang Xiu, after listening to Old Song��s introduction, smiled, "Yan Kai? Also good."

    "Thank you, Chief!"

    They hadn��t spoken many words when a girl��s voice was heard upstairs, "Grandpa, who is this person, why did you let hime! Send him away!"

    This voice sounded quite familiar.

    Gu Junming looked over, a girl wearing a white sweater, beneath a ck cotton skirt, very trendy attire.

    She looked pretty, eyes revealing arrogance and hatred, he raised an eyebrow, this girl was the one encountered at the wedding of Wang Hu and Bai Fann, the two sides were quite unpleasant, unexpectedly meeting here.

    Yan Kai whispered, "Does she know you? Why such an expression?"

    Gu Junmingughed, "Yes, and seems we��ve be enemies, quite hateful."

    "What��s the matter?"

    "It��s nothing serious."

    Yan Kai was initially panicked, having offended Mr. Yang��s granddaughter, wondering what to do, but seeing Gu Junming still calm, he rxed, secretly admiring Gu Junming.

    It��s still him, no matter the situation, manages to stayposed,pletely unperturbed, couldn��t help thinking of four words, the demeanor of a great general!

    Thinking this, Yan Kai felt low in spirits again, why couldn��t he do the same?

    He was lost in thought here, the girl had already run to Yang Xiong��s side, pointing at Gu Junming, wanting him evicted.

 Chapter 170 Failing to Accuse

    <h4>Chapter 170: Chapter 170 Failing to use</h4>

    "Kick him out, no, you send someone to arrest him!" The girl felt waves of hatred seeing Gu Junming. She had never been so embarrassed in her entire life, it was all because of him and that woman. Now, bumping into him at her own home, how could she let him off easily!

    Yang Xiong slightly furrowed his brows: "Yun��er, don��t be so unruly! What did he do for you to have him arrested?"

    "Grandpa, didn��t I tell you before that someone bullied me? That scoundrel is him! He humiliated me in front of so many people, tore my clothes, it��s him, Grandpa, you can��t let him off!" The girl pointed at Gu Junming, gritting her teeth, attempting tobel him as a thug.

    Zhao Feitian��s heart stirred.

    Yan Kai and Old Song also looked at Yang Yu in shock: "This is..."

    Yang Yu said: "It��s not like that at all."

    "Just because you say it isn��t, doesn��t mean it��s not! You deliberately bullied me!"

    "If I really bullied you, with so many people watching, and even your driver there, why didn��t you shout to have me caught? You��re not the type to shy away from confrontation. ndering a soldier is a serious crime." Gu Junming was calm, showing no fear despite Yun��er��s high status.

    Yun��er��s face turned red with anger, thinking he was arrogant even in this moment, daring her to do something about him.

    Zhao Feitian stood up with a smile: "Gu Junming looks like a serious and responsible man, and in broad daylight with his girlfriend. How could he abuse his power, Yun��er? Isn��t there some misunderstanding here?"

    "What misunderstanding? Uncle, mind your own business!" Yun��er interrupted Zhao Feitian impatiently and red at Gu Junming: "Why aren��t you talking? Feeling guilty? Ha, I said I wouldn��t let you off! As long as I��m here, your life won��t be easy. I am a cadre��s child!"

    Gu Junming sneered internally, is this kind of person really a cadre��s child?

    He simply recounted the event, including what the girl said and did at the time. Mr. Yang��s expression gradually turned quite grim.

    "Your car drove against traffic, almost hit my fianc��e, and then you wouldn��t stop fighting, eventually falling and tearing your own pants. It wasn��t me harassing you, that��s quite a distortion of the truth! The ck and white of this matter is already very clear. Miss Yang��s memory is poor, so let me help you recall. Do you remember now?"

    "Shut up!" Yun��er cried sharply, filled with hatred, knowing her identity, yet Gu Junming remained unfazed, not yielding an inch. A bit of fury and shame sprung up in her, turning to pull Mr. Yang��s arm: "Grandpa... help me vent my anger!"

    Mr. Yang frowned: "Let me ask you, when did you start using the family car to roam around? What have you done?"

    "I just went out on a whim..."

    "On a whim? Don��t you know that��s a government car? Who allowed her to take the car out? Without my permission, using a government car for personal use?" He turned to look at a young officer outside.

    The officer trembled in fear, lowering his head, not daring to speak.

    "It��s, it��s my mom, she said I��m new here, not familiar with the ce, so it was like that, it��s not a big deal!" She retorted, pouting.

    "Hmm, I see, the way you are now is all because of your parents spoiling you! Using a government car for personal matters, driving against the traffic, causing trouble, and yet you have the nerve to falsely use others? Are you trying to harm your father, or ruin my reputation?" Mr. Yang roared, causing echoes in the room, the closest one, Zhao Feitian��s ears buzzed, feeling extremely tense, is Mr. Yang serious or just putting on a show? If he can��t help, am I doomed this time?

    Old Song tried to interject but Yang Xiong waved him off, stopping him from speaking: "No need to say more, I will personally report this matter to the superiors, write an investigation report, and I also want to see what kind of things my good granddaughter has done, if there��s any scandal I��m unaware of outside!"

    "Grandpa! No, it��s clearly this person being unreasonable..."

    "Enough!" Yang Xiong coldly said; "I will thoroughly investigate this matter. If it has nothing to do with Gu Junming, and it��s your fault, falsely using him, I will not forgive you. Also, no more having people drive you out anymore!"

    Yun��er looked at Mr. Yang in shock, almost crying, she had been pampered since childhood, her requests almost never denied, yet today she was scolded for an outsider, feeling deeply humiliated and hurt.

    "Grandpa, why have you changed so much?"

    "While you were young, you��ve endured a lot of hardships, seeing you a bit spoiled and willful was tolerable, but now you��re not young anymore, in your twenties, still so immature and domineering, it can��t go on like this! I think you should find a military unit to train and discipline yourself, otherwise, who knows what you��ll be over time." Mr. Yang felt ufortable at heart, his son and daughter-inw were sent away because of him those years, so many things happened, even losing a child. Seeing them spoiling their daughter, he said nothing, but he didn��t expect the child would be like this!

    She��s already been spoiled beyond measure, if not managed, she might go astray.

    Of course, Yun��er was dissatisfied, but Yang Xiong had already stopped her, not allowing her to speak: "Enough, don��t you know where you��ve gone wrong? Go upstairs and reflect, I��ll talk to your parents."

    Yun��er knew her grandfather��s temper; once he decided, it wouldn��t change, so she could only sulkily head upstairs. Before leaving, she gave Gu Junming a fierce re, thinking you��d better watch out! I won��t let you off easy, my grandpa might not deal with you, but my dad can! She stomped upstairs, her steps venting her displeasure.

    Zhao Feitian said with a smile: "Yun��er is young, a little unruly. Don��t be angry, old man, at this age, there��s a bit of rebellion, but she��s not bad at heart."

    "Yun��er is not so young anymore. I know what��s going on, no need to persuade." Yang Xiong nced at Zhao Feitian indifferently.

    He didn��t like this so-called distant rtive, never doing anything solid, just good with his mouth.

    In past years, he engaged in some spective business, earning a lot of money, Yun��er��s mother helped quite a bit too, but now doing business isn��t illicit, nothing to say about it. But better restrain it in the future!

    Given his sensitive status, if something happens, it wouldn��t be good for his reputation.

 Chapter 171: Selfless and Just

    <h4>Chapter 171: Chapter 171: Selfless and Just</h4>

    Zhao Feitian listened to Yang Xiong, smiled lightly, and sat back down, seemingly unaware of the elder��s coldness towards him.

    Yan Kai and Gu Junming exchanged a look but remained silent. Yang Xiong didn��t seem to have any intention of covering anything up, which was good.

    Old Song exchanged a few pleasantries before steering the conversation towards the child trafficking gang.

    It was reported that Gu Junming and the others encountered violent resistance from the vige militia and even got injured.

    Yang Xiong immediately frowned, looking at Zhao Feitian: "Didn��t you say they were all sensible vigers? How could such a thing happen? Even using knives to hurt people?"

    "No, I really don��t know about this! There must have been a slip-up in their instructions. I��m not familiar with those vigers."

    Gu Junming said: "This child is from our vige, so why did he end up in a vige on the outskirts of the city?"

    "This... I don��t know... maybe... maybe just passing through?"

    Yan Kai chuckled: "You��re in the city and they��re in the suburbs; how could they just pass through there? Moreover, I��ve investigated that vige is notorious for child trafficking, with many children sold from there."

    Everyone��s faces changed, especially Yang Xiong, who was already frowning.

    Zhao Feitian hurriedly said: "Is it that serious? I��m a city dweller and rarely visit there. Asking me seems pointless." He truly was an old hand, with a strong mental fortitude.

    Gu Junming said tly: "Since you intend to adopt a child, you should know how important such matters are. You should be clear about the child��s origins, shouldn��t you? How could you trustingly ept a child without even meeting these vigers? Didn��t the person who delivered the child tell you their identities? Two have confessed already, frequently contacting you."

    Zhao Feitian lifted his head, meeting Gu Junming��s eyes��sharp as knives��and felt a bit flustered, yet he still smiled.

    "It��s my fault. In my eagerness to adopt a child, I neglected the underlying matters. I apologize." He stood up and sincerely bowed to apologize. How could you prove anything against me without evidence?

    Gu Junming smiled faintly: "Is that so? Seems you��re just well-intentioned but misguided."

    As Zhao Feitian was about to rx, Gu Junming continued: "I will thoroughly question the underlying things and hope you truly have no dealings with them��just a misunderstanding."

    Yan Kai added: "They operate systematically, bringing in children without question, even ignoring the holidays, directly driving to the city in the middle of the night to evade our tracking. They��re even bold enough to use knives; one can see they��re used tomitting crimes regrly?"

    Old Song also said: "Indeed, seems like the work of a habitual gang."

    "Elder, I really don��t know!" He began pleading with Yang Xiong.

    Yang Xiong said: "If you didn��t do it, what are you worried about? Just cooperate with the investigation; no one will trouble you."

    "Yes, elder." Sweat covered his forehead��does this mean I��m on my own?

    Old Song said: "We came here today initially worried��what if you were involved? Should we inform Mr. Yang? Now that you��ve imed it��s unrted, it��s a relief; it has nothing to do with you. We can conduct a proper investigation."

    Upon hearing this, Zhao Feitian regretted deeply��what does this mean? If the investigation reveals something, am I doomed?

    But before he could react, Yan Kai and Gu Junming were already holding his arms, one on each side.

    "Alright, since we��ve all reached a consensus, no need for extra words. Come with us."

    "No! It��s the New Year, anding with you now is inappropriate; I��m a businessman with some reputation��how could you just arrest me like this? If it gets out, who will cooperate with me? This ruins my reputation..."

    Old Song chuckled: "No need to worry; we��ve considered that. If you��re innocent, we��ll personally vouch for you. If anyone doubts you, just send them to me."

    "But this way, what about the Yang Family��s reputation? I��m a rtive of the Yang Family..."

    Yang Xiong waved: "Don��t say that. It��s merely assisting the investigation��it doesn��t mean you��re being arrested. If you��re innocent, we lose nothing. Go on back."

    Old Song, seeing the matter settled, breathed a sigh of relief, stood up to bid farewell.

    Yang Xiong wanted to invite them for a meal but knew they wouldn��t stay, especially with Yun��er around��who dared linger?

    Helplessly, Zhao Feitian was taken away.

    Of course, the investigation wasn��t handled by Gu Junming and the others; they were merely key witnesses. The interrogation was led by the captain of the criminal police squad, an oldrade of Old Song, hence they provided full assistance.

    Yan Kai, seeing the person taken away, breathed a sigh: "Will this old guy ever face justice?"

    Gu Junming said: "There��ll be a way. Thanks for your help this time."

    "No need for thanks. Your holiday doesn��t have many days left; make sure to rest."

    "Agreed." Gu Junming smiled. It��s time to properly spend some time with Sun Chan.

    Yan Kai and Gu Junming bid farewell and walked ahead, suddenly eximing before turning back: "Look at my memory! I almost forgot a very important thing��someone filed aint against you, alleging inappropriate entanglement with a widow during disaster relief."

    Hearing this, Gu Junming frowned: "Who is this?"

    "Ha, unknown. But there��s an investigation ongoing. Best be cautious. When the tree stands out, the wind will break it; you��re outstanding now, catching people��s eyes."

    Yan Kai, despite being apetitor to Gu Junming and Wang Hu, always conducted himself honorably and never stooped to such matters, thus having disdain.

    Gu Junming said: "I didn��t do it, nothing to worry about."

    "Could it be Wang Hu... after all, he��speting with both of you, and he��s in a challenging position now."

    "No. Wang Hu is too straightforward, focusing solely on work; his pride wouldn��t allow such actions." Actually, Gu Junming already had a hunch who might be behind it.

    Bai Chuan falsely used his adoptive father back then��won��t he continue to falsely use me? Gu Junming remained calm, unafraid of these rumors.

    "Anyway, better prepare in advance; I must go."

    The two were now considered rtives, so they were closer than before.

    Gu Junming exchanged a few casual words, saw him into the car, then turned back.

    On the way back, Gu Junming��s chest burned with anger. Bai Chuan! All these years, still using the same disgusting tricks!

 Chapter 172 Someone Wants to Frame

    <h4>Chapter 172: Chapter 172 Someone Wants to Frame</h4>

    Sun Chan had been selling fruit all afternoon. As darkness gradually fell outside, she packed up her things and prepared to leave.

    She was just considering whether she should head back without waiting for Gu Junming, when she saw him pushing the door open and walking in.

    Yang Liu quickly greeted him, "You��re back? It looks like it��s snowing outside!" Today was her shift; Guihua had gone home to look after her child.

    "Yes, the wind is strong." Gu Junming stomped his feet to shake off the snow from his shoes, then called to Sun Chan, "Let��s go, I��ll take you home."

    Sun Chan agreed and walked over with a smile. She handed her bag to Gu Junming and reached out to wrap her arms around his, as the ground was too slippery to walk easily.

    Gu Junming teased, "Are you scared?"

    "Yeah, isn��t it painful to fall?"

    "Rest up when you get home, then read some books. Try to enroll in the open university next year."

    Sun Chan nodded bashfully, "I know, I��ve been a bitzy recently. How��s your business going?"

    Gu Junming exined the situation, and Sun Chan said, "It seems that Zhao Feitian is the insider."

    "But without evidence, it won��t work. This person is very cunning; he alwaysmunicates in a single line. And the person assigned to practice with him has escaped. The intermediary doesn��t know who the person above is or who wants to sell a child, while Zhao Feitian only mentioned wanting to adopt with his wife. No other implications."

    "Hmm. You said he��s a repeat offender, so was he ever caught before?"

    Gu Junming paused, "You mean..."

    "If something goes wrong, his story will surely be the same: he wants to adopt a child. See how many times this has happened, let them see if there are simr secret operations; it��s best to thoroughly verify with Zhao Feitian��s wife. Unless his wife is also a repeat offender like him, contradictions will certainly arise. Approach it from others!" said Sun Chan.

    "Got it!" Gu Junmingughed, "Every time I��m with you, listening to you talk, it feels like finding rity amidst confusion."

    Sun Chan, embarrassed, replied, "I��m just talking nonsense."

    She had watched many TV dramas in her past life and learned from them.

    Gu Junming also mentioned that someone reported he was involved with a widow in the disaster area, and he wanted to preemptively warn her in case Sun Chan gets upset should someone talk to her about it.

    Sun Chan was furious upon hearing this, "That person is really bad, attacking you like that."

    "Because of such rumors, everyone prefers to assume the worst. Even if there��s nothing, you end up stained with gossip. He calcted that I wouldn��t be able to defend myself."

    Sun Chan stood still, and Gu Junming stopped too, both staring at each other under the streetlight.

    "What��s wrong? It��s very cold. Let��s go home."

    Sun Chan held onto Gu Junming��s arm, "What do we do? What if you��re falsely used like your father was?"

    "It won��t happen," Gu Junming said, "I believe the organization will vindicate me. I was just helping that woman move things, and her only son was injured. I stayed at her ce for a while. She begged me to help her son join the army, but I said he was too young. I didn��t agree, and though she was disappointed, she didn��t say anything else."

    Sun Chan replied, "I��m worried that if the woman was bribed to say things she shouldn��t, what do we do? You always believe that the innocent will prevail, that justice exists. But don��t forget, there were people like your father who were wronged for many years."

    Gu Junming remained silent, knowing it was possible. If the widow was so poor, what if someone offered her a lot of money to speak falsely? What if someone satisfied her conditions to frame me?

    "I��ll go back. I need to rify things with her and stop her from spreading lies."

    Sun Chan shook her head, "I��m afraid that won��t work. Since the opposition dared to write a letter using you, it means they��ve almost done everything needed. If you go back now, you might just fall into their trap and be used of being guilty. If things escte, it won��t be good for you."

    Gu Junming was silent for a while, then said, "Am I just supposed to wait and do nothing? I can��t y such conspiratorial games."

    Sun Chan thought it over, "How about we use this opportunity to catch the mastermind behind it all?"

    "How do we catch them?"

    Sun Chan leaned in and whispered a few words in Gu Junming��s ear, surprising him.

    "Can it really be that simple?"

    "Yes, I think it will be. Just investigate it thoroughly," she said.

    Gu Junming nodded with a smile, "Alright, I��ll go first thing in the morning. You really are a smart one. When I��m with you, I don��t need to make decisions for many things."

    "What��s so smart about me? I haven��t even finished elementary school." Sun Chan was humble, knowing she still had a lot to learn.

    Gu Junming took her hand, "You��re a treasure, and I��m lucky to have discovered you. That is my fortune."

    Sun Chanughed as she looked at him, "Since when did you learn to be so smooth-talking?"

    "I��m being sincere."

    As they talked andughed, they walked off into the distance, returned home, tidied up briefly, and rested. Gu Junming was preupied, determined to catch Bai Chuan, the sly old fox!

    Over on Yang Liu��s side, she watched them leave enviously, wondering when she could be this happy herself. Just thinking about it made her face flush slightly; if only Han Dong understood her feelings.

    Han Dong was sneezing from Yang Liu thinking about him, rubbing his nose as he went on a blind date at a restaurant.

    Across from him sat a very pretty girl, elegant and attractive, from a schrly family. She was now a middle school teacher, speaking pleasantly, but Han Dong was about to fall asleep, as he didn��t like girls like her!

    If he were to marry her, he��d have to listen to her chatter all day long, wouldn��t that be maddening?

    He thought about Sun Chan, who wasn��t very talkative, yet he never felt bored around her. Just seeing her made him happy.

    Why was that? Was it because she was beautiful?

    No, Sun Chan��s looks were just above average. He��d met plenty of women prettier than Sun Chan, yet why couldn��t he forget her? Was it because he couldn��t have her?

    Han Dong was lost in thought, and the girl in front of him timidly asked, "Do you not like my talking? I feel I��ve been a bit chatty tonight."

    "It��s nothing. It��ste, let me walk you home."

    The girl smiled and stood up, thinking that him offering to walk her home meant he was satisfied with her?

    She was personally very satisfied with Han Dong: a good family background, handsome appearance, and he supposedly ran his own business, bing a big boss!

    Things were different nowpared to years ago, businessmen weren��t discriminated against as much anymore.

    Han Dong escorted the girl back to her residential area and was about to leave.

    The girl asked, "Um, are you going to be around on the fifteenth of the first lunar month? Will youe over for the Lantern Festival?"

    "No." Han Dong smiled, "I��m a dutiful son. You head back, and be careful while walking."

    Han Dong turned and strode away.

    The girl watched him walk off into the distance, sighed, and then returned home.

 Chapter 173 Refusal

    <h4>Chapter 173: Chapter 173 Refusal</h4>

    Han Dong didn��t know the girl��s name, only her surname was Yang. Coincidentally, this Yang Zhen was actually the cousin of the spoiled youngdy Yang Yun whom Gu Junming had met. They were about the same age, butpletely different in character.

    Yang Zhen greeted her grandfather, went upstairs, took off her coat, and sat on the bed in a daze.

    Yang Yun was sulking in the room, and when she saw her cousin return, she came over. Today, she was scolded by her grandfather for being immature, and he even told her to go to the military after New Year for training. When sheined to her father, he simply said: "When has your grandfather ever been wrong? Just follow his arrangements."

    Yang Yun was unwilling to suffer in the military, couldn��t sleep, and knowing her cousin went for a matchmaking, she hurried over to ask about it.

    Yang Zhen smiled: "Not good."

    "What do you mean by ��not good��? Was it unsessful? You didn��t fancy him? I heard he hasn��t even graduated high school! What��s so great about him? If you don��t like him, don��t meet him anymore, even just giving him a nce is showing him respect."

    Yang Zhen didn��t speak. How could she say that it was the other party who didn��t fancy her?

    Han Dong was very handsome, although he seemed casual and carefree, he was full of elegance inside. And he was doing so well in business, so he was clearly clever, unlike anyone she had met before.

    She fell for him the moment they met, but he didn��t like her. There was nothing she could do.

    Yang Zhen was a smart person. Since Han Dong didn��t fancy her, she didn��t n to keep in contact with him. She was just a bit unhappy; it was hard to find someone she liked, only to end like this.

    Yang Yun snorted: "Don��t worry! You��re only twenty-four years old after New Year, why rush? It��s not like you can��t get married."

    "My parents are anxious, too. They��re not your parents, they��re both in the military, with plenty of choices at hand. My conditions aren��t as good as yours. If I get older, it��ll be even harder to find a suitable one."

    Yang Zhen��s parents were both esteemed intellectuals, which sounded nice but actually meant they were poor, not the kind of poverty where they couldn��t eat, butpared to those around them, they didn��t stand out.

    Earlier, the gap between the two sisters wasn��t obvious, but in recent years, suitors for Yang Yun came in waves, while Yang Zhen��s side was deste. Even with better character and looks than Yang Yun, people��s attention was still on Yang Yun.

    Yang Yun felt pleased hearing this andughed: "Don��t worry, cousin. I��ll tell my dad, and he��ll introduce someone from the military to you."

    "Okay, thank you. It��ste, I should sleep. You should rest early too."

    Yang Yun saw her cousin issuing a dismissal, but didn��t get angry. After a failed matchmaking, it was understandable, so she got up and left.

    As she closed the door, she curled her lips. This cousin was inferior to her in every way, and now couldn��t even find a match, which added some disdain in her heart as she turned away.

    Han Dong had found a restaurant, drank some sullen wine, and when he left, he passed by the hotel again, not wanting to leave. It was awfully cold, and driving wasn��t an option.

    He happened to see Yang Liu instructing some night guards, preparing to rest.

    "Don��t sleep too soundly. If someonees to stay, quickly register them. There are still some rooms above the second floor; avoid letting anyone stay on the first floor, it��s not warm."

    The night guards quickly agreed. Yang Liu was just about to go upstairs, unintentionally nced up, and saw Han Dong standing there, feeling unexpectedly joyful, she quickly approached.

    "Why are you here? It��s quitete."

    Han Dongughed: "I went to a matchmaking, with someone who shares your surname Yang, but it didn��t work out, so I came around. I��ll stay here, too, toozy to move. Ouch!" he said as he tripped.

    Yang Liu held him, saying: "Be careful! Did you drink so much because it wasn��t smooth?" Hearing he had a matchmaking felt quite ufortable to her, but hearing it didn��t go well, she felt relieved, yet realized, even if this time wasn��t sessful, he��d eventually find someone suitable, and her mood soured again.

    "The woman was too beautiful, I��m afraid I can��t afford to keep her, what if she runs away?" he joked.

    "How can you joke at a time like this? Come in." Yang Liuughed as she helped him into one of the rooms.

    Han Dong fell onto the bed. He wasn��t really drunk, just ufortable, mentally weary.

    Yang Liu pulled over a nket and slowly covered him. Seeing him lying there with closed eyes, lightly breathing, hisshes were long, eyebrows nicely shaped, cheeks flushed, and Adam��s apple moving.

    Yang Liu��s heart suddenly raced. She extended her hand, slowly touched his lips, he didn��t wake up. Finally, unable to control her emotions, she leaned down and kissed his lips.

    But just as she touched them, Han Dong suddenly opened his eyes.

    Yang Liu was startled, almost screamed, nearly fell to the floor, caught by Han Dong��s grasp.

    Furious inside, she thought she was being foolish, how could she do such a silly thing? Stumbling, she stood up, leaned against the wall behind, embarrassedly lowered her head, face flushing.

    Han Dong got up, opened his eyes to look at her, his gaze was very clear, not a hint of drunkenness.

    "You like me? So want to kiss me?"

    Yang Liu was so nervous her heart was about to leap out: "No. No. I just... just wanted to find something, don��t misunderstand."

    "Best not." Han Dong chuckled and yawned: "I��m a yboy, fickle, but I don��t like messing with what��s close, because it��s hard to manage after. Even if I slept with you, it doesn��t mean I��ll marry you, so I don��t want you to get hurt. Let��s be friends instead."

    Her face turned ghostly pale, unable to say a word.

    "Frightened? So you see, someone like me can��t be a qualified husband, you��d better give up early. Find a stable, honest man to marry, like Gu Junming, aren��t women all keen on that sort?"

    Otherwise, it was obvious he pursued Sun Chan first; condition-wise, Gu Junming wasn��t superior to him, so why would she choose to be with Gu Junming? Simply because she wanted a stable man to live with, wasn��t it?

    Yang Liu forced a smile and finally asked: "You like Sun Chan, don��t you?"

    "Yes."

    "But she already has a partner, they��re very good together, she will marry Gu Junming."

    Han Dongzily said: "Sometimes I think, maybe it��s because she doesn��t like me, so I like her and can��t forget? Aren��t people all so masochistic? Whatever, why talk about this, I wouldn��t ruin their rtionship anyway. You really scared me earlier, don��t do that next time."

    Yang Liu didn��t respond to him, just said a bit bewildered: "I want to know, what��s so good about Sun Chan? She��s just from the countryside, without much education, why do you like her so much?"

 Chapter 174: It’s Here

    <h4>Chapter 174: Chapter 174: It��s Here</h4>

    Her circumstances are much better than Sun Chan, who��s an orphan, right? Even though her family background isn��t great, she��s still a city girl and doesn��t look bad either.

    She didn��t realize that as she said this, a trace of resentment shed in her eyes. She didn��t even know she could resent Sun Chan.

    Han Dong said, "I don��t know either. You don��t need to dwell on this issue. I might stop liking her tomorrow. That��s just how I am."

    "She knows you like her but still wants to introduce me to you. Is she trying to show off or something?"

    "Why is there so much overthinking involved? You women just love to overthink! Alright, big sis, my head is killing me, I want to go to sleep." Han Dong pulled the nket and turned to sleep.

    Yang Liu walked out of the room and slowly headed back. Her tears fell non-stop.

    She was rejected like this without confessing, it was like being pped with rejection, she felt so humiliated, Han Dong must think she��s a lowly woman, and thinking of this, made her heart ache more. She really liked him, if they got married, she��d surely live well, but unfortunately...he didn��t need her.

    As soon as Yang Liu left, Han Dong opened his eyes, his brows furrowed together. He didn��t care whether a woman liked him or not. But it was clear Yang Liu was taking out her resentment on Sun Chan. That��s not good.

    Women are really troublesome. You don��t like me, and you hate me for liking you? What��s that about? Sun Chan always says Yang Liu is lively, open-hearted, and kind, but it seems like she��s a bit too na?ve.

    Yang Liu tossed and turned all night, clutching the nket and quietly crying, she couldn��t be more upset.

    Since there��s nothing to say, she got up early. While cleaning the room, she passed Han Dong��s room, hesitated for a moment, but still didn��t go in. She��s a very conservative girl, having been rejected, she dared not go and tangle anymore.

    But she thought it would be good to see him, at least give a greeting. So she loitered around, her expression was dazed.

    When Gu Junming came over with Sun Chan, she was still lost in thought, not noticing them.

    Sun Chan came over, smiled and waved in front of her, "What are you thinking about?"

    Yang Liu was startled, then smiled at Sun Chan, "You��re here? Han Dong drank too much yesterday and stayed over. You should wake him up; it��s gettingte."

    "Oh, alright." Sun Chan walked over to knock on the door, and then pushed it open, saying, "He left early. He��s not here."

    It turns out Han Dong left halfway through the night to go home, feeling unwell, he didn��t want to stay here.

    Yang Liu��s heart sank; does he hate me so much? Doesn��t even want to see me for a second? Had to leave directly in the dead of night, afraid I��d cling like yesterday? The more she thought, the more she felt wronged, Yang Liu didn��t say anything, turned around and went upstairs.

    Sun Chan was very curious, wondering what happened?

    Gu Junming said, "I think she might have been crying." Her eyes seemed a bit swollen.

    "Why?" Sun Chan asked in confusion.

    "Maybe because of Han Dong? When you said he left, her expression changed."

    Sun Chan felt troubled. Could it be that they talked and Han Dong rejected Yang Liu? Sigh, but it��s difficult tofort her in this situation.

    "She��ll figure it out herself, you should talk to Sister Guihua to encourage her a bit. You don��t need to talk to her; I don��t think she��d want yourfort." Gu Junming said.

    Sun Chan wanted to ask why, but thinking about Han Dong��s feelings towards her before, she just nodded, "You go do your work, it looks like your boss wants to talk to you."

    "Alright, I��m going. Be careful, wait for me toe back and pick you up." He said, nced around, took advantage of no one noticing, pulled her hand briefly, and then turned to leave.

    Sun Chan felt sweet inside, and went to the fruit store to get ready for opening. She didn��t know someone was looking around for her: Ding Hu. He had just gotten off the train, asking around and looking everywhere near the station, determined to find Sun Chan.

    Finally found her, turns out it��s a hotel, first floor sells fruits, Sun Chan was doing business here?

    Who knows how much she earns in a year? Doesn��t matter, when the timees, I��ll first tie her up and throw her on the bed.

    Sun Chan tidied up, the shop opened, she held a math book, reading while doing business.

    Last night, Gu Junming had discussed with her, she��d mark what she didn��t know, and let him help exin, and if possible, attend a lesson at school.

    Sun Chan started with the hardest subject, math. She was initially a bit nervous; after all, she hadn��t even graduated elementary school, the first-year courses might be a problem, but now it seemed fine, she was doing well with the basic questions.

    Yang Liu had duty yesterday, today she was resting, while Guihua was busy downstairs; Yang Liu unusually didn��te down to greet Sun Chan. Sun Chan didn��t go up to find her either, thinking maybe she could talk to her at noon; she really didn��t want to lose Guihua as a friend.

    Who knew Yang Liu didn��te looking for her at lunch either, Sun Chan felt a bit uneasy.

    Seeing Yang Liu walk outside, she followed, "Are you going to eat?"

    "Yeah, there��s buns opposite; I��ll buy two to get by."

    "Come eat at my ce, I brought food this morning: tbread and scrambled eggs, also brought noodles, we can cook some and eat together with Sister Guihua?"

    Yang Liu nced at Sun Chan, her gleaming eyes, sharp chin, skin white and delicate; where is there a hint of countryside? The more she looked, the more beautiful she seemed, no wonder Han Dong liked her, I must be a joke.

    "What��s wrong, Yang Liu?"

    "Nothing, I just want to stroll outside, not nning to eat." She said and walked away indifferently.

    Sun Chan felt her coldness, so she didn��t say anything more, feeling a bit ufortable inside, wondering why things turned out like this.

    She returned to her fruit stall, lost in thought, then Ding Hu showed up.

    Seeing Sun Chan sitting there, looking even prettier than a flower, Ding Hu��s heart almost flew out. She��s so beautiful, how could I have been so stupid to dump her and be with Liu Mei, that sow!

    Upon hearing footsteps, Sun Chan thought it was a customer, quickly looked up, saw tattered clothes, face blue from cold, it was Ding Hu!

    Seeing him, her mood worsened, she coldly stood and said, "What are you here for?"

    Ding Hu felt a surge of anger inside, but still forced a smile, "What are you talking about, we are fellow vigers, even dated, why such an attitude? Could it be you cling to higher branches now and don��t want to acknowledge me?"

    Sun Chan found him terribly annoying, thinking of all the disgusting things he did in a previous life, it was all for himself, selfish and shameless, didn��t want to say a single word more to him.

    "I have nothing to say to you. How you see me is up to you. Leave immediately, please don��t disturb my life!"

 Chapter 175: Impropriety

    <h4>Chapter 175: Chapter 175: Impropriety</h4>

    Ding Hu wanted to lose his temper, but soon softened again, thinking he was supposed to lure her out. He smiled and said, "I��m here in the city to work, but I don��t know anyone and don��t have much money. Do you think you could help me find a job?"

    "I don��t have a job for you."

    "How could you not? Isn��t this a hotel? You could talk to the boss for me, I��d be fine working here. Just for the sake of our past rtionship..."

    Sun Chan quickly interrupted him: "You��re married now, you should keep your distance. Yet you came here to say these things to me? You have no shame, I still need practice with that! If Liu Mei finds out about you pestering me here, she��ll only curse at me, and you��ll just hide in a corner without making a sound!"

    Ding Hu put on a yful smile: "You��re worried about that! Rx, we��ll keep it a secret together so she won��t find out." As he spoke, he reached to hold Sun Chan��s hand, "I know you��ve been wronged. I will definitely make it up to you in the future..."

    "Get lost!" Sun Chan forcefully pushed Ding Hu away, grabbed a fire poker from the ground, and pointed it at him. "Get out now! You want to work here? Don��t even think about it! We broke up, it��s over, and I already have someone. What do you think you��re doing here?" Trying to take advantage just now?

    Ding Hu��s face darkened, this girl was really tough to deal with now!

    Seeing no one around, he suddenly seized the poker from her hand, grabbed her cor, and dragged her outside. When soft won��t do, he went hard; he had to get what he wanted today!

    Sun Chan began to struggle: "Let go of me! Let go, let go of me! Help, sob sob sob..."

    Ding Hu grit his teeth as he covered her mouth with force, simultaneously dragging her outside.

    It was a coincidence that there weren��t many customers; Guihua was in the innermost room on the second floor, unable to hear anything. He directly dragged her out, nning to get her into an alley, knock her out, and take her away.

    Yang Liu casually bought a couple of buns, feeling very upset. She knew it wasn��t Sun Chan��s fault, but jealousy made her treat Sun Chan poorly, leaving her regretful and sad.

    She walked listlessly nearby and suddenly saw a man grabbing Sun Chan, immediately startled.

    Ding Hu whispered to Sun Chan: "Be good ande with me, I promise to treat you well!"

    Yang Liu was displeased with Han Dong��s matter, but she wasn��t a bad person. Seeing Sun Chan being bullied fired up her anger; she rushed over to grab Ding Hu: "What are you doing! Let her go!"

    Ding Hu shouted: "Mind your own business, you stinky woman! Careful or I��ll hit you!"

    "Who do you think you are, grabbing people on the street and unting your power! Hey, someone��s being kidnapped! Sister Guihua!" She shouted aloud, and Ding Hu panicked; though he wasn��t very brave, now he just wanted to take Sun Chan away quickly!

    "Move!" Sun Chan saw Yang Liuing to help and used all her strength to knock Ding Hu away, running towards Yang Liu.

    Ding Hu grabbed her hair, trying to pull her over, causing Sun Chan to sit on the ground.

    As he prepared to drag her by force, Yang Liu was furious. What kind of person is this!

    She nced around, spotting a coal pile beside the hotel. At this time, heating was done independently with coal, and a shovel was ced there. She picked up an iron shovel for handling garbage, snuck behind Ding Hu, and smacked him on the shoulder, causing Ding Hu to copse wailing on the ground.

    Meanwhile, Guihua had led several staff members out from inside. Seeing Sun Chan coughing continuously with disheveled hair, she hurried over: "What��s going on here?"

    Sun Chan coughed a few times: "Call the police, this man tried to kidnap me!"

    Ding Hu was about to pass out with pain, but hearing the word "police," he panicked and urgently shouted: "What��s our rtionship, how could you call the police!"

    Guihua sneered: "What rtionship do you have with her? Go ahead and tell us!"

    "We��re together!"

    "Shameless!" Guihua spat, "Her man is a soldier, what are youpared to that, pretending to be her man, your face is thicker than a wall!"

    Yang Liu also raged: "I saw with my own eyes you grabbing her neck and pulling her hair, is this what someone who cares about her would do? You��re an animal, bullying a woman and trying to take advantage. What use is someone like you!"

    Speaking this, she picked up the shovel to continue hitting him, while everyone around criticized Ding Hu.

    Sun Chan looked at Yang Liu with gratitude; though there was some conflict between them, when it mattered, Yang Liu never hesitated to help her. Seeing her, Yang Liu quickly said: "You��re still here, tidy yourself up, this looks too messy."

    "No need, I��ll stay like this until the policee." Sun Chan replied.

    Several clear finger marks were on her neck, her hair torn off in a patch, and in the struggle, she bumped her nose causing blood to flow. Yet she wasn��t anxious, either in this life or the previous, Ding Hu��s actions were disgusting enough, she would not let him bully her again.

    Ding Hu anxiously said: "Sun Chan, don��t be so cruel, can��t you? We��re from the same vige!"

    Sun Chan sneered: "I should have been tougher on you in the vige. If I had any temper, being dumped wouldn��t end just like that. I��d certainly make you miserable!"

    Back then in the vige, dating was almost synonymous with marriage.

    Ding Hu dumped Sun Chan for the Liu Family��s money, something incredibly foul, but Sun Chan was rather timid, and Zhao Xiuxia didn��t defend her either. Ding Hu��s family was extremely poor, with nothing to squeeze from him.

    If it were any other family, a good daughter dating someone who suddenly dumped her would cause an uproar.

    Ding Hu awkwardly said: "I didn��t mean it that way, I genuinely have feelings for you..."

    "You��re still saying that!" Sun Chan coldly replied: "I only thought since we��re fellow vigers, breaking up wouldn��t matter, even if it was over, it wouldn��t be significant. But you took advantage of that, thinking I was easy to bully, chased me here, and did such despicable things! You want to drag me somewhere to shame me or sell me? If caught, you��d just say ��we��re from the same vige�� and be done with it! You��re married, I also have someone, and you still want to bully me? Dream on! Yang Liu, call the police now, no one can bully me!"

    Memories of this man from two lifetimes surged in her heart, hatred piercing her intensely.

    Sun Chan thought she��d almost forgotten, but seeing Ding Hu again, she clearly remembered how he tried to take advantage and falsely used her of seducing him!

 Chapter 176 Release Me

    <h4>Chapter 176: Chapter 176 Release Me</h4>

    Yang Liu responded and hurried inside. She had been wondering why she was angry with Sun Chan. It hadn��t been easy for her all this way, an orphan who had no one to treat her well. Now she only had Gu Junming, and here she was, resenting her just because she couldn��t win Han Dong��s heart��she must be crazy!

    Hearing that they were going to call the police, Ding Hu was really frightened. He stood up to run but was caught by Guihua and Sun Chan, one on each side. Ding Hu struggled and shouted, "Let go of me, I won��t bother you again!"

    Sun Chan said, "If apologizing after making a mistake resolved everything, then I could just go aroundmitting murder and arson! Wouldn��t the world be a mess? Today you must learn your lesson, I��m not listening to your pleas. Reflect on it properly!"

    "I don��t want to, go away!" Ding Hu was really terrified. He didn��t want to be taken to the police station, especially if the Liu Family found out, it would be even more troublesome. So he tried to forcefully push them away and run out. But Guihua and Sun Chan, being used to physical work, wouldn��t let him escape. Though Ding Hu clenched his teeth and used all his strength, he still couldn��t break free, nor let Sun Chan and Guihua control him.

    The three of them wrestled like this, rolling in the snow.

    Yang Liu hung up the phone, came out, and saw the scene, screamed in fright, and rushed to grab him. Three women trying to seize a man; sometimes Yang Liu and Sun Chan would nce at each other, their eyes filled with warmth, and their minor conflict soon vanished into thin air.

    Just as Ding Hu was about to be subdued, someone in the crowd behind screamed, "What are you doing to my husband! Let go, you wicked woman!"

    It was Liu Mei. After her husband deceived her to get out, Liu Mei felt something was wrong. How could this guy be so diligent? It was a big holiday, and there was no work to be done, so what was he really doing?

    Perhaps he found a lover; the money he imed to losest time wasn��t lost but given to an affair?! With this chain of thoughts, Liu Mei became furious. Without a word, she secretly followed her husband, trailing behind him all the way to X City.

    Unfortunately, she took the wrong path when she got off the train, so she lost sight of him and had been anxiously wandering around, wondering where he had gone. She was about to find him when she saw a crowd gathered ahead, fighting. At first, she wanted to watch the show, but then she saw Sun Chan entangled with Ding Hu and two unfamiliar people! What was going on!

    Liu Mei came over and pushed away Sun Chan and Yang Liu��s wrists, and they let go. By this time, Ding Hu was like a stray dog, with no strength left, and there was no worry about him escaping.

    "What the hell is going on!" Liu Mei shouted.

    Ding Hu stammered, ncing at Liu Mei, "We��ll talk at home."

    "Talk about what at home? Talk right here!" She smacked him at the back of his head.

    Ding Hu staggered from the hit, "It��s nothing major..."

    "Hurry up and speak, don��t dawdle, or I won��t be nice!" She said while looking at Sun Chan. In her heart, she more or less understood her husband must have pulled some inappropriate act to bully Sun Chan and got caught. But airing dirtyundry in public would be disgraceful, and since Liu Mei always disliked Sun Chan, even amidst anger, she couldn��t show it. Instead, she aimed her temper at Sun Chan.

    Ding Hu said, "I was just passing through here and happened to meet Sun Chan, said a few words, had a bit of a misunderstanding, and this started, really there��s nothing much." He cast a pleading look at Sun Chan.

    Sun Chan looked coldly at Ding Hu, not saying a word.

    Liu Mei said, "I see, she seduced you, didn��t she? One look, and you can tell she��s no good, a truly disgusting woman! Answer me, did she seduce you? Tell me, did she?"

    "Yes, yes." Ding Hu��s voice grew smaller.

    Liu Mei red at Sun Chan, "You really have a knack for it! Seducing men from so far away, people can still catch the scent of your tailswitch."

    Sun Chan frowned, "Mind your words!"

    "I said it, so what! Let everyone see, such a shameless fox spirit, seducing other people��s husb��"

    p, p, p! Before she could finish, several heavy psnded on her face. Sun Chan had been using a separator, hitting Liu Mei so hard that she directly sat on the ground, ears ringing, dumbfounded for quite some time. When she finally realized what had happened and lunged at Sun Chan, she received another p.

    Liu Mei, knocked against her husband, took several steps back with him.

    Liu Mei red at her, gritting her teeth, "You actually dare to hit me?"

    "Keep spouting nonsense, and I��ll keep hitting you!" Sun Chan said, expressionless.

    Guihua sneered then, "Truly a spineless coward, daring to do such shameless things, but not daring to admit it? Now you��re trying to shift the me, don��t you see what kind of person your husband is��ugly, foolish, as poor as he is��why would our Sun Chan��s partner, with such good conditions, like someone like you?"

    "What are you saying..."

    Guihua turned to Liu Mei, "And you��re just the same; don��t you know what kind of person your husband is? Clearly, he had ulterior motives, and you insist on wrongly using the woman involved! Someone like him is rubbish, only you would treasure him; who would like that!"

    Liu Mei bit her lip, "You��re all in this together, obviously protecting her!"

    Sun Chan looked at Liu Mei, "No one needs to protect anyone. I called the police; no matter how capable I am, the authorities aren��t siding with me. Whatever happened will be clear naturally."

    Liu Mei froze, then shrieked, "Don��t call the police!"

    Yang Liuughed, "Didn��t you say it was Sun Chan��s fault? We called the police so shouldn��t you be happy? What are you worried about?"

    "Don��t call the police!" Liu Mei pulled her husband back, "Let��s forget about this matter, don��t go!"

    Sun Chan quickly stepped forward to grab her, "Don��t leave, I��ve been too lenient in the vige, so everyone thinks I��m easy to bully. But not this time; I won��t let you off. Your husband attempted inappropriate acts, attempted to kidnap me, almost strangled me; there��s no way I��ll just let this slip!"

    The clear marks on Sun Chan��s jade-like neck and the firm expression on her face, along with a calm and cold look in her eyes, panicked Liu Mei inexplicably. She suddenly realized this girl was really different from those in the vige.

    Suddenly, Ding Hu lunged at Sun Chan. Guihua thought he was going to attack again, but he knelt before Sun Chan instead.

    "I��m begging you, spare me this time! I dare not do it again, really, I dare not. Another moment, and heaven will strike me dead!"

 Chapter 177: No Longer Soft-hearted

    <h4>Chapter 177: Chapter 177: No Longer Soft-hearted</h4>

    Liu Mei felt utterly humiliated. Wasn��t this just admitting straight out that he��d done something wrong? She had just told him to say it was Sun Chan who seduced him. But now, she couldn��t care about that��she couldn��t let her husband go to jail!

    Sun Chan said, "Let��s go to the alley over there. I don��t want to talk to you here."

    She walked over; there were too many onlookers here.

    Ding Hu and Liu Mei quickly followed. Ding Hu had gone to great lengths to get Sun Chan toe here with him. Now she finally came, but he knew he couldn��t handle this woman, and he probably never would. Guihua and Yang Liu, worried, brought some people from inside to follow along, blocking both sides of the alley.

    Yang Liu said, "Actually, there��s no need to worry. The police will be here soon."

    Guihua said, "I��m just afraid of cornered dogs jumping over the wall. Neither of these two are any good! A shameless couple."

    Yang Liu nodded in agreement, thinking to herself, exactly, one is ugly but thinks she��s pretty, the other is ugly and thinks even uglier thoughts.

    All she knows is to protect her husband. She knows he��s at fault but still wants to drag Sun Chan down.

    By this time, Liu Mei and her husband had followed Sun Chan into the alley. Sun Chan didn��t rush to speak, just looked at them indifferently, wanting them to speak first. But Ding Hu was already scared witless and said nothing.

    Liu Mei had been holding back her anger, but now seeing Sun Chan��s attitude, she couldn��t help it anymore.

    "Hey, what do you want from us? Can you stop pretending and say what you want?"

    "Is this how you ask me for something?" Sun Chan looked at her coldly. "Seems like you don��t want your husband out."

    Liu Mei panicked, "Sun Chan, please don��t! We��re from the same vige. You know I��m not a bad person, I��m just afraid you��ll take my partner away. But I know you��re not that kind of person. I��m a petty person... Please forgive us, I was wrong..."

    She couldn��t help but cry, while Ding Hu hid behind her like always.

    Sun Chan said calmly, "Even though it seems you��re a bit sincere this time, I won��t let him go."

    "Please don��t do this..." Liu Mei was about to kneel.

    Sun Chan stopped her with a hand, "Listen to me first. I won��t tell them you want to kidnap and molest me. Ding Hu, you admit to them that you were in a bad mood and went to smash up our hotel. This way, you��ll be detained for at most half a month, and you won��t have topensate for the damages, just reflect well inside."

    When Ding Hu heard this, he nearly sat on the ground. He didn��t want to go inside for half a month! There aren��t any good people in there, he��d definitely be beaten!

    He hoarsely said, "I��m begging you, forgive me this time. I promise in the future..."

    "I don��t believe you. I��ve already been very understanding because we��re from the same vige. You should be punished for doing wrong. Otherwise, I��ll just tell the truth that you wanted to kidnap and molest me��at least twenty years!"

    At this, the couple shivered again. Compared to twenty years, a few days aren��t so bad. After all, he can stille out, right? And if it��s not said, the vigers won��t know he was taken in.

    "Okay, I got it," Ding Hu said dejectedly, "Sun Chan, it��s all my fault."

    Sun Chan smiled wryly, "Actually, I��m at fault too. I should have beaten you up hard from the start, caused a scene when you got married, let others know how shameless you are. Then you would avoid me whenever you saw me, why bother getting tangled over and over again?"

    These words made Liu Mei and Ding Hu very ufortable. Although both were selfish and despicable, they weren��t fools. They naturally understood what Sun Chan said was true.

    Ding Hu left her halfway through, and Sun Chan had already been very forgiving, ming no one, causing no scenes, nor asking forpensation. Yet the ones who relentlessly clung on were still them, even wanting to molest her.

    If this were known to the vigers, they��d be mocked relentlessly.

    Sun Chan continued, "Actually, I want to know who incited this. Although you��ve never been good, you wouldn��te to look for me for no reason. Besides, I��m in X City and haven��t told you. How did you find this ce?"

    Wang Dan knew where I was, but she no longer lived in the vige. So, it must be that bitch.

    Sun Chan said, "Was it Sun Lijuan? No one else would be this malicious hoping I��d fall."

    Ding Hu trembled, then said, "Yes, it was her. During the New Year, she told me you were living well, had money, and were doing business, and I got so angry that I wanted to... wanted to see you. Get some money to spend." Better than saying wanting to molest her as a concubine, Liu Mei might hit me lighter.

    Hearing this, Liu Mei trembled with anger and turned to walk forward.

    Ding Hu hastily stopped her, "Wife, where are you going?"

    Liu Mei turned back and pped him, "How could you listen to Sun Lijuan? Are you stupid? How many truthful wordse out of that bitch��s mouth? She can��t wait for you to get into trouble! She herself is a mess and can��t stand others doing well. After being wrecked by Zhou Jinzhu, she hopes Sun Chan gets messed up too, and you listen to her?"

    The matter between Sun Lijuan and Zhou Jinzhu was hardly a secret. Mainly because Zhou Jinzhu liked to brag, he would boast while drunk about how he messed up Sun Lijuan in the cornfield. People kept quiet about it, thinking Sun Lijuan would graduate next year and probably be assigned to a good ce, fearing she��d be needed someday! So, no one wanted to provoke the offender.

    Hence, no one mentioned this in front of Sun Lijuan, so Zhao Xiuxia and Sun Lijuan didn��t know.

    Liu Mei utterly despised Sun Lijuan��average-looking with high aspirations. She got messed up by Zhou Jinzhu yet pretended to be pure, aiming to marry into a good family? Now this bitch came to incite her husband. How absurd!

    Ding Hu was deeply regretting now, "I was wrong, wife, it was a moment of confusion..."

    "There��s hardly a time you��re smart!"

    Just then, a police car drove over, and Sun Chan saw Yang Liu waving, signaling them toe over.

    Liu Mei gave Ding Hu a push, "You��re rarely sober. Reflect well for this half month, I��m going home!" Liu Mei didn��t want to see this husband any longer. Why didn��t he just die!

    Ding Hu grabbed her, "Wife, don��t leave, I know I was wrong..."

    "Fine, I won��t tell others. Luckily it��s only half a month, juste home then and work properly��otherwise, if my parents find out, you��re dead. I��m giving you onest chance," Liu Mei said fiercely.

    Liu Mei also worried. Given her looks, a divorce would mean her family finding another husband wouldn��t be any better, and who knows if she could even have children. So, she��d keep this one for now, at least he��s obedient, and deal with itter.

 Chapter 178: Reputation Worsened

    <h4>Chapter 178: Chapter 178: Reputation Worsened</h4>

    Knowing his wife wouldn��t leave him, Ding Hu was relieved and followed her, saying many sweet words to Liu Mei before leaving. Although Liu Mei didn��t respond, it seemed she was softened.

    In front of the people at the police station, Ding Hu confessed ording to Sun Chan��s instructions and was quickly handcuffed and arrested.

    Before leaving, Sun Chan approached him, and Ding Hu said softly, "I��m sorry."

    Sun Chan replied coldly, "This is thest time I��ll show you mercy. If you keep targeting me, I won��t forgive you."

    "Yes, I understand. I��ll definitely change." It was only now that Ding Hu realized this woman truly had no feelings for him anymore. And he was no longer the weak person he once was.

    Handcuffed and leaning against the car, he was taken back to the police station, thinking to himself, I��ve really shed with city life.

    The first time I came out, I lost money; the second time, I got detained. I should just stay in the vige and stop strutting around. But this time, the one who led me to make mistakes was Sun Lijuan, that wicked woman. When I get back, this won��t end easily! Just you wait!

    Sun Lijuan was lying on the bed, sneezed inadvertently, and wondered who was thinking of her. Could it be a sess?

    If Sun Chan were ruined by this guy, she��d be too embarrassed to face anyone. That��d be really great.

    Haha, she thought maliciously, then hang a sign around Sun Chan��s neck calling her a ��loose woman�� and parade her around the vige for the vigers to humiliate her!

    She couldn��t helpughing, as if Sun Chan��s misfortune was right in front of her.

    But who knew, on the third day, Liu Mei showed up in their yard. She had a gloomy face and it was unclear what she was thinking.

    Sun Lijuan greeted her with a smile, "What brings you here to see me?" This woman shouldn��t know that Ding Hu went to find Sun Chan, right?

    Liu Mei came over and, without a word, grabbed her hair and pulled forcefully. Sun Lijuan struggled continuously.

    "What are you doing? Let go of me, let go!"

    They both fell into the snow.

    Liu Mei didn��t say a word and just started beating her. She couldn��t possibly say that her husband was persuaded to assault Sun Chan and now got arrested, so she stayed silent. Liu Mei was strong, and Sun Lijuan, having just miscarried and not fully recovered, was no match for her. It wasn��t long before her face was covered in blood, and she screamed rolling on the ground.

    "Let go of me, let me go! Are you crazy, you mad sow, let go of me!"

    "Why should I let go of you? You tricked my husband, what good does it do you, you bitch!!" She couldn��t help but say.

    Sun Lijuan was shocked: "What happened? Didn��t he seed..."

    Smack, smack, smack! Liu Mei pped Sun Lijuan three times, "Seed my ass, you just know how to use people to harm others. Do you know how unlucky my husband is now! I��ll kill you!" She sat atop Sun Lijuan, scratching desperately, and soon Sun Lijuan��s face was a bloody mess. Sun Lijuan screamed and fought back, even causing Liu Mei��s nose to bleed.

    Zhao Xiuxia was inside stoking the fire when she heard themotion outside and rushed out. Seeing Liu Mei attacking crazily, with her daughter pressed underneath, she screamed and rushed over.

    "What are you doing! We all live in this vige and have a good rtionship, why are you fighting!" She lunged forward, shoved Liu Mei away, and pulled up her daughter.

    Liu Mei spat, "Who��s close with her! She��s a worthless person who never does anything, just knows how to stir up trouble, a wretch! Listen up, Sun Lijuan, don��te spreading nonsense to my husband, or when you appear before us again, I won��t be polite!"

    "How dare you curse me!" Sun Lijuan also got angry, "Go look in the mirror at your ugly face before you insult me! What are you, a sow, so ugly it bites dead, and you still dare to insult me!"

    She looked down on Liu Meipletely; if her family didn��t have money, she wouldn��t even have spoken to her.

    "Stop spouting nonsense!" Zhao Xiuxia tugged her arm.

    Liu Mei sneered, "Yes, I don��t look as good as you! Because you��re pretty, that��s why you hooked up with Zhou Jinzhu, isn��t it? How��s the cornfield, you two had a good time, right?"

    Once she finished speaking, Zhao Xiuxia and Sun Lijuan were shocked, yelling, "You��re talking nonsense!"

    "Me, talking nonsense? Who in the vige doesn��t know? Zhou Jinzhu already spread your affairs all over the ce, and you��re still acting pure here? Bah! Shameless thing. You��re not even as good-looking as Sun Chan, yet you act high and mighty here. Just go y loose with your shoe, I won��t care about your life, but if you mess with my husband, don��t me me for not giving you face!" Liu Mei finished, turned, and left.

    Outside, without anyone knowing when, several curious wives had gathered and were whispering.

    It was clear they had heard Liu Mei��s words, and they were pointing and murmuring.

    Sun Lijuan was so angry her chest hurt. A person like her was meant to marry into a good family, but now her reputation was ruined by someone like Zhou Jinzhu��what good is left? Who could marry her? And despite everything said, it��s all true!

    Sun Lijuan cried woozily back to her room.

    Zhao Xiuxia rushed to appease the onlookers, "Don��t listen to her nonsense, it��s just two sisters having a spat; it��s not true. Go back home, it��s cold out!"

    After speaking, she also went inside.

    Sun Lijuany sobbing on the bed while Zhao Xiuxia sighed and approached her, "Crying now won��t help, this woman is a lunatic, she��ll definitely spread it."

    "Why am I so unlucky! That damned Zhou Jinzhu, going around talking!"

    Zhao Xiuxia said, "Don��t cry. Later, when you��re working in the city, who cares what they say? Just deny everything."

    Sun Lijuan quickly sat up, wiped her tears, "It��s all that damn sun Chan��s fault! If it weren��t for her, I wouldn��t be so unlucky!"

    Zhao Xiuxia nodded, if not for adopting her, her daughter wouldn��t be so miserable, would she? The mother and daughter sat together cursing her thoroughly, but now there was no other way. They could only wait for graduation and leave the vige once Gu Junming found a job.

    They didn��t consider that the real problem was they constantly tried to harm Sun Chan, and Gu Junming was still Sun Chan��s fianc��.

    Soon rumors spread in the vige that Sun Lijuan had seduced Ding Hu, then got beaten by Liu Mei, who exposed her past fling with Zhou Jinzhu.

    Sun Lijuan was already deeply troubled, and upon hearing herself being associated with the two worst men in the vige being talked about, how could her mood not be affected? She felt like coughing up blood.

    "Damn Liu Mei, I��ll never let this go!"

 Chapter 179: The Thief’s Heart Never Dies

    <h4>Chapter 179: Chapter 179: The Thief��s Heart Never Dies</h4>

    Sure, here is the trantion:

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    Sun Lijuan was so angry when she heard that she smashed several bowls and refused to eat. She pulled her mother and cried.

    "When did I ever have any dealings with a fool like Ding Hu? It��s all that damned Liu Mei��s fault for harming me. Mom, go to Liu Mei��s house and settle the score. I can��t stand it! Make them shut up!"

    She didn��t dare go to Liu Mei��s ce herself, even though Liu Mei hadn��t said anything when she hit her. But judging by the situation, Ding Hu definitely didn��t seed. If he had seeded, things wouldn��t be like this. That bitch Sun Chan managed to escape another crisis!

    Zhao Xiuxia saw her daughter��s dissatisfied expression and sighed helplessly: "This isn��t something I can just decide on myself! If you ask me, you should just endure it for now. Look at the state of things at home, we��re not doing well. The other day, I even borrowed some money from Liu Mei��s father. Plus, during spring plowing, we have to borrow a cart from Liu Mei��s house. We can��t afford to offend her too much. Besides, if things escte, won��t your reputation suffer even more? Listen to me, just endure it. After a few days, no one will be talking about it anymore."

    Sun Lijuan was naturally unwilling, but she knew things were different nowpared to before.

    Her uncle��s side didn��t care anymore. Before, Sun Chan could go out and earn some money, whether it was harvesting corn or nting rice; she could make a hundred or eighty yuan, all of which Zhao Xiuxia controlled.

    But now who at home is working? Just eating without earning, what can be done about this!

    Thinking of this, Sun Lijuan got even angrier: "That cheap Sun Chan, ever since she got that boyfriend, she��s been showing off! She hasn��t even sent us a single yuan, acting like we��re dead!"

    Zhao Xiuxia sneered: "Yeah, that shameless woman isn��t much, but she��s skilled at seducing men. And that guy seems pretty wealthy; do you think she��s saved up quite a bit?"

    "Why talk about this! No matter how much money it is, it doesn��t concern us. Are you even daring to find her?" Sun Lijuany irritably on the bed.

    Thest incident blew up too much, and almost got to the police station. Zhao Xiuxia didn��t dare to cause any more trouble, but she wasn��t willing to let it go just like that. She thought for a moment and pulled her daughter��s arm.

    "Isn��t Gu Junming��s hometown in the vige?"

    "Yes, I heard before it��s not too far from our vige."

    "I��ve made up my mind. Let��s inquire and go to Gu Junming��s old home! Their son married my daughter, are we just going to let it be?" Zhao Xiuxia wore an expression of pride, finally thinking of a way to get money.

    Even though she agreed with Gu Junming not to ask them for money, it didn��t mean she couldn��t ask his parents for it. Besides, the daughter married into their family, asking for a dowry is reasonable. Once we get the money, even if Gu Junming��s parents tell him, we won��t return it��they can��t kill us, right?

    Gu Junming is in the military, he shouldn��t dare to do anything like that.

    Sun Lijuan, who had been crestfallen and without hope, perked up upon hearing about a way to get money. She sat up: "Mom, the early bird catches the worm. Let��s go now and get the money; it��ll be done, saving us the trouble in case Gu Junming remembers something and tells others."

    "Alright, I��ll get ready and we��ll go!" The mother and daughter donned their cotton jackets, ready to leave.

    Who knew that as soon as they stepped out, they ran into Zhou Jinzhu, who was stumbling over while drunk. The mother and daughter felt extremely ufortable seeing him and turned to leave, but Zhou Jinzhu sneered and approached.

    "Where are you going? Are you the one spreading recent rumors?"

    Sun Lijuan gritted her teeth: "It wasn��t me!"

    "Let me tell you, Sun Lijuan, even if you shout across the whole vige that I slept with you, I still won��t marry you. You��re so ugly, I regret sleeping with you. I��m not marrying you, remember that!"

    Without waiting for Sun Lijuan to respond, he turned and walked away.

    Sun Lijuan was furious and rushed over to hit him, but Zhao Xiuxia held her tightly by the waist: "Enough! Even if you beat him, does it solve the problem? If this blows up, he can say anything, and you��ll have no choice but to marry him. Are you really willing to be tied to him for a lifetime? Getting the money is what��s important now."

    Sun Lijuan thought to herself, "You just wait and see, I won��t let you off easily!" She followed Zhao Xiuxia and left.

    Meanwhile, Sun Chan had no idea she was being schemed against again. She was checking ounts with Yang Liu; the fruit sales had been good these days. Sometimes when she was too busy, she asked Yang Liu to help look over things.

    Yang Liu was a bit angry with Sun Chan earlier because of Han Dong, but she soon came around and they were as close as before. Watching Sun Chan tidy the ount book, counting every piece of change and putting it into her pocket, she smiled.

    "Is this for saving?"

    "No, this is for stocking up. The savings are already set aside."

    Yang Liu said: "Seeing how profitable your business is, I��m envious."

    Sun Chanughed and held her hand: "Don��t worry. Sister Guihua told me that once the hotel develops, she��ll make you the deputy manager. Don��t lose sight of the bigger picture��my fruit stand isn��t worth anything."

    "But why don��t you do this too?" Yang Liu was curious, considering she only got to know Sister Guihua through Sun Chan. In terms of closeness, she didn��tpare to Guihua and Sun Chan.

    Sun Chan shook her head with a smile: "I��m not suited for business; I just want to earn some pocket money. You��re the clever one; this is for you."

    As the two were talking, the hotel door opened and Gu Junming walked in withrge strides. He always had a cold expression, but today seemed even more frosty��absolutely terrifying!

    Yang Liu was nearly trembling, stood up, said a few words, and ran away.

    Sun Chan invited him in, helped him take off his cotton coat, and smiled: "Warm yourself by the fire. Are you upset?"

    Gu Junming smiled: "Looks like you were right; he really wants to frame me. If you hadn��t warned me, I��d be in trouble. It��s truly despicable. The tactics used years ago are still being used now!"

    Sun Chan patted Gu Junming��s hand; at this moment, words offort were unnecessary.

    Gu Junming leaned against the side, lost in thought, but never mentioned what actually happened. Sun Chan didn��t ask. The small stove��s me was bright red, and Sun Chan threw in a few sweet potatoes and found two big potatoes��grilled them, they tasted delicious too.

    Gu Junming spoke: "The higher-ups might ask you some things, just tell the truth when the timees."

    Sun Chan looked at him and said: "Is it about that widow?"

    "Yes." Gu Junming nodded: "We��re dating, and there��s this rumor; your side will certainly ask questions too."

    "I understand; I��ll speak properly and won��t hold you back."

 Chapter 180: Unappreciative

    <h4>Chapter 180: Chapter 180: Unappreciative</h4>

    "I��m not worried about you, you��re a smart girl, and very kind." Gu Junming smiled and held her hand. He already knew about Ding Huing to cause trouble, and in the end, Sun Chan still let go of that thug.

    He thought to himself, I can��t just let this guy stay inside for a few days and that��s it. I need to take good care of the guesswork, make sure he stays away from my wife in the future.

    Sun Chanughed at this moment: "I��m not very smart, I��m rather simple, and I don��t have much education, let alone ambition. I just want to make some money, study well, and be with the person I like."

    Gu Junming looked at Sun Chan��s bright eyes, his heart skipped a beat: "Who is the person you like?"

    Sun Chan didn��t say anything. She looked outside, saw no one, then suddenly leaned in to kiss his lips, quickly letting go, and looked at him with a smile.

    The blush on her cheeks resembled a sweep of rouge, bright like peach blossoms. She rarely acted so proactively, mostly because she saw Gu Junming was in a bad mood, so she did this.

    Gu Junming was taken aback, then he pulled her into his arms tightly, and kissed her back with force.

    Sun Chan��s soft body pressed tightly against Gu Junming, her hands weakly pushing against his shoulders. His wanton invasion drained her of all strength, as she breathed lightly, her eyes filled with sparkle.

    "You��re wearing a military uniform, aren��t you afraid of being seen?" Her voice trembled a little, but she wasn��t angry at all.

    "I��m not afraid." Gu Junming reluctantly let go of her: "When can we get married?"

    Sun Chan lowered her head andughed: "Two years from now."

    "Yes. That��s right, two more years." He held Sun Chan��s hand, gently patting it, not knowing what he was thinking. He didn��t want to take her before marriage, slowly suppressing the fire in his heart. She was still too young.

    The stove was very warm, both of them felt that this was really toofortable right now, and were toozy to move.

    "When will we have the conversation?" Sun Chan finally came back to herself, asking about the matter.

    "Tomorrow morning. Are you nervous?" he said.

    Sun Chan shook her head, leaning against his shoulder: "How about you, have you done what you needed to do?"

    "Yes, I��ve reported the situation."

    "That��s good. We��ll just wait and see." Sun Chan yawned, closed her eyes. Gu Junming patted her hair, helped to turn over the sweet potatoes in the stove, soon the room was filled with the aroma of sweet potatoes. He didn��t wake Sun Chan up, ced the sweet potatoes on the stove lid, the longer the time, the better the taste.

    Over at Bai Chuan, he made a call to get Bai Fann and Wang Hu over, saying he had something important to discuss.

    Bai Fann and Wang Hu had been getting along welltely. Last time Wang Hu had given her shopping vouchers, and afterward, they got closer, even went out for a meal.

    Bai Fann also thought that this was the person she would spend her whole life with, sulking wouldn��t do any good, so she followed the steps down, and the two reconciled. They originally nned to buy some mutton and make dumplings for the family.

    But they received Bai Chuan��s call in the morning saying there was something to discuss, so the two came over quickly.

    Mrs. Wang wasn��t very happy, her son had just returned. It was hard enough to have a family meal together, but thinking Bai Chuan said there was a matter, it must be military affairs, she let the twoe.

    Bai Chuan was in a good mood, weed the two with a smile: "How are things Lan, your first year spent celebrating New Year with your inws, is it ufortable?"

    "Grandpa, I��m doing well." Bai Fann blushed and nced at Wang Hu. Recently, he had truly been treating her nicely.

    Wang Hu, however, didn��t notice her friendly gesture, shook hands and exchanged pleasantries with Bai Chuan, didn��t have any intention of speaking with Bai Fann.

    Bai Fann cursed him inwardly, calling him a wooden block, but she didn��t get angry as she used to, after all, she was used to it. It��s enough that he likes her, then she went to the kitchen to wash fruits, letting them talk.

    Bai Chuan saw the granddaughter wasn��t there, then spoke to Wang Hu: "Have you heard about Gu Junming��s issue? It��s a bit troublesome."

    "Huh?" Wang Hu was stunned: "What issue?"

    "Haven��t you heard? He��s been reported now, saying during disaster relief he got involved with a widow." Bai Chuan raised the teacup, took a few sips, looked at Wang Hu, a smiling face, was evidently pleased.

    Such a thing happening during important disaster relief is truly disgraceful and indicates a wed character. Those above won��t forgive Gu Junming, and Wang Hu and Gu Junming are nowpetitors, once Gu Junming is finished, Wang Hu has much better hopes of winning, so Bai Chuan was saying these things on purpose to curry favor, showing his concern for this grandson-inw, of course, if Bai Chuan needed anything in the future, Wang Hu couldn��t stand idly by.

    Even though Bai Chuan aged another year, he still didn��t have any intention of relinquishing power.

    Bai Chuan said: "I called you over today exactly for this matter, you just need to let your father put a bit more effort in from the military��s side to kick out Gu Junming, ensuring he has no opportunity topete."

    "Gu Junming isn��t that kind of person, I think someone falsely used him." Wang Hu didn��t believe Gu Junming would do such a thing.

    Bai Chuan was displeased, frowned: "You know people��s faces but not their hearts. Plus, you know, your overall capability is not as good as his, he blocks your way, you won��t have the chance to rise! So you have to take advantage. Don��t be so stubborn."

    Wang Hu felt it was unpleasant to hear, what does this mean? Am I really thatcking in your eyes?

    Although he knew he wasn��t as good as Gu Junming, he was confident, he definitely wouldn��t be that much worse, even if he lost this time, he couldn��t use such methods to step on others to climb up!

    "Anyway, listen to me, have your father take actions, your position is a sure thing."

    Wang Hu suppressed his anger and said: "I don��t believe Gu Junming can do something like that. Even if I��m not as good as him, I can��t let Gu Junming be brought down by such baseless usations."

    Bai Chuan was very angry, alright, I helped get this matter settled, and you still act like this!

    Originally he wanted Wang Hu to be grateful, unexpectedly Wang Hu wasn��t pleased and said such things.

    Wang Hu frowned and looked at Bai Chuan: "This has nothing to do with Grandpa, right?"

    "What do you mean by this?"

    "Nothing much. Logically speaking, matters not yet investigated shouldn��t be leaked this quickly, how did Grandpa know about this? Or did you also participate in this affair?" Wang Hu asked directly.

    "So what if I did?" Bai Chuan��s face showed a cold smile: "A gentleman doesn��t fuss over small matters, besides, it��s not a serious issue, once your position is secure, I��ll find someone to clear his name."

 Chapter 181: Lost in Heart

    <h4>Chapter 181: Chapter 181: Lost in Heart</h4>

    Wang Hu didn��t expect Bai Chuan would really frame Gu Junming, and even admit it without any hesitation. His heart ignited with anger, and he stood up abruptly, wanting to say something nasty. But considering Bai Chuan was his elder, he had to suppress his emotions. However, the mes in his eyes were already undeniable.

    Bai Chuan was also infuriated: "What are you doing? Are you here to criticize me? I��ve arranged everything for you, and you act like this��is that resentment I hear? I��m doing this for your good. You��re not as capable as Gu Junming..."

    "Yes, I��m not as capable as Gu Junming, but I have my dignity! I cannot ept your actions!" Wang Hu said as he turned to leave.

    Bai Chuan stood up and shouted, "Stop! Where are you going?"

    "I��m going to exin everything to the higher-ups. I can��t let Gu Junming take the fall!"

    "You��re absolutely... absolutely hopeless! Don��t you understand I��m doing this for your benefit?" Bai Chuan walked over, pointed at him with anger on his face: "I��ve never seen someone like you. If you continue to be this stubborn, don��t even dream of getting promoted for a lifetime!"

    Wang Hu replied calmly, "I would rather never be promoted than harm someone else!"

    "You idiot! Are you deliberately opposing me?" Bai Chuan grabbed a teacup and smashed it on the ground, shards scattered in an instant, water sshed everywhere, some evennding on Wang Hu��s pants.

    In the kitchen, Bai Fann was startled and rushed out: "What��s going on?"

    Neither of them answered her question.

    Wang Hu quietly looked at Bai Chuan: "Grandfather, you��ve always been someone I respect. What you did was indeed wrong. I hope you quickly report it to the higher-ups, otherwise, no one will be able to save you!" He turned and walked out.

    "Where are you going now, to report it and earn merit?" Bai Chuan said coldly: "I chose you as my granddaughter��s husband. I��ve always had a good impression of you, but you would do this? Had I known, I wouldn��t have allowed you to marry my granddaughter!"

    Wang Hu nced at Bai Fann, her pale face and tearful eyes standing over there. He sighed; this was a marriage he chose himself, he couldn��t just ruin it after the rtionship started to mend. He could only say: "I won��t report you, but I absolutely do not support what you��re doing. I hope, grandfather, you act wisely!"

    "Outrageous!" Bai Chuan didn��t appreciate it, angrily said: "Do you even regard me as an elder? I��ve done so much groundwork, and you don��t thank me but instead reprimand me?"

    "Because you were wrong. Bai Fann, do you want to go back with me?"

    Bai Chuan said: "Bai Fann, you are my granddaughter. Which side are you on? Think carefully!"

    Bai Chuan was very angry this time. He truly intended to cultivate Wang Hu, but why couldn��t he understand?

    Bai Fann was stunned; her husband and grandfather, just what kind of situation is this in such a short time?

    "Since you��re not willing, then stay with grandfather!" With Bai Fann��sck of reaction, Wang Hu strode away.

    Bai Fann then came back to her senses and ran to Bai Chuan: "Grandfather, what happened? Why are you two arguing? Is it because of some misunderstanding?"

    Bai Chuan sneered: "Isn��t it because he��s taking himself too seriously? Young people are just young people! So clueless, you stay here. I want to see if he dares to report me!"

    "Why exactly..."

    "Don��t you worry! Just stay here, let me see if he wants you as his wife or if he acknowledges me." Bai Chuan was indifferent, historically speaking, sess is built on the bones of many. How many climb upwards stepping on others�� corpses? Yet, Wang Hu presumes to be pristine, a good person, and we��re all viins?

    Bai Fann hesitated for a moment, and Bai Chuan sternly said: "Don��t forget who raised you! If you only care for your husband, don��t worry about me! If you leave today, don��te back ever again." After saying this, he went upstairs directly.

    Bai Fann stood aside, then returned to the kitchen, wondering what on earth had happened?

    She didn��t leave; she sat on the sofa, feeling very conflicted. By the afternoon, she finally called Wang Hu.

    Wang Hu��s voice was not very good: "Your grandfather doesn��t let youe back?"

    "I��m afraid toe back, what��s going on?"

    Wang Hu thought for a while, then exined the situation. After all, his wife was twenty-six, not sixteen; she should be able to discern right from wrong. To his surprise, Bai Fannughed after hearing the story: "Could such a minor issue have erupted this way?"

    "What do you mean?"

    "Wang Hu, my grandfather was right. He was doing it for your good," Bai Fann said earnestly: "I heard about this job arrangement; it��s a rare opportunity. Even if you take a shortcut, it doesn��t matter."

    Moreover, that person is Gu Junming! As long as Gu Junming is unfortunate, Bai Fann would be happy about it.

    She said: "I know you can��t ept it right away, but you don��t need to argue with grandfather just because of appearances. How about you let my grandfather handle itpletely; you just pretend you don��t know. Later, you can apologize to Gu Junming, and it won��t be a problem. He won��t hate you."

    Wang Hu felt a deep disappointment, his wife thought he was arguing with grandfather because he cared about appearances!

    After Bai Fann finished speaking, all she heard was silence, making her slightly panicked: "Wang Hu?"

    Wang Hu said: "Was this your grandfather��s idea, or your own?"

    "What��s wrong?"

    "I��m very disappointed in you. I thought you were a righteous, kind, and sensible woman, but you surprised me. I misjudged you. Okay, I don��t want to say much more. Your expectations are too high; I can��t meet them. I apologize for disappointing you, but I have my principles in doing things. Tomorrow, I��ll withdraw my application, and tell your grandfather I won��t do something so contemptible. Not reporting him is already my limit." After saying this, he hung up decisively.

    Wang Hu has always maintained his integrity, but his wife and her grandfather have cast a blemish on him that he couldn��t forgive himself for!

    Bai Fann heard the beep from the phone, nearly going mad, wanting to call back butcking the courage.

    She angrily tossed the phone away: "I��m out of my mind!"

    Not knowing whether she was cursing herself or Wang Hu.

    She really felt there was nothing wrong; back when she was in school, she too used some small tactics during student council elections. It��s just strategy; over time, who cares about this? To take it so seriously, Bai Fann fell onto the bed angrily.

    She felt she and Wang Hu couldn��t live together, living with such a person was simply exhausting.

 Chapter 182 Response

    <h4>Chapter 182: Chapter 182 Response</h4>

    Early the next morning, Wang Hu went to the troupe. He had hardly slept all night and left as soon as he got up.

    Father Wang and Mrs. Wang exchanged a nce and shook their heads together.

    A phone call from Bai Fannst night had led Wang Hu to smash things in the house.

    The old couple didn��t know what had happened, but seeing Bai Fann hadn��t returned, they guessed the couple had quarreled. However, their son always disliked talking, so they couldn��t ask.

    Mrs. Wang said, "Had I known it would be like this, I shouldn��t have let him marry so early."

    "It��s not about age, but Bai Fann��s personality being unsuitable," Father Wang sighed.

    Wang Hu should have found someone gentle and amodating, instead of someone spoiled and indulgent. But it��s already like this, what can be done? Should they let the child divorce?

    Wang Hu drove with tightly pursed lips, arriving swiftly at the wrong ce, then directly went to the leader��s office to retrieve his application.

    The leader was very surprised: "You��ve reported this to the upper management numerous times, and we��ve reached the final three-to-two stage. You actually decided to give up? Have you... had any problems?" He wanted to ask if he was crazy, passing through numerous hurdles, only to quit at thest step? Doesn��t this give an advantage to the other two, letting them win without a fight!

    Wang Hu said, "I thought it throughst night. My abilities don��t match Yan Kai and Gu Junming��s, and even if I reached the final evaluation, I might not win. Besides, I also want to study well and apply for an opportunity for further training abroad."

    "Alright, since you��ve decided yourself, I will respect your opinion. Going to study is also good."

    Wang Hu took back the application form and sighed in relief. He would rather have nothing than be involved in this matter. Even if he seeded, he would still be talked about!

    He crumpled the application form into a wad of waste paper and walked out, just in time to bump into Gu Junming and his partner Sun Chan at the entrance. He instantly felt incredibly awkward, unable to avoid them.

    Thinking about it, when did he start fearing seeing others? Wasn��t Bai Chuan the cause of all this!

    Gu Junming and Sun Chan came over to greet Wang Hu.

    Wang Hu hesitated several times before finally saying, "I��ve withdrawn from thepetition. You... you��re good."

    "What do you mean?" Gu Junming was stunned. He knew Bai Chuan was ying tricks behind the scenes, and naturally understood it was for Wang Hu. Who would have thought he would give up on his own!

    "Anyway, I definitely won��t be involved in this matter. Believe me!" Wang Hu said then turned around and left.

    Sun Chan watched his back and said, "He��s a good person."

    "Yeah. Let��s go," Gu Junming said, patting Sun Chan��s back.

    The two went to the leader��s office upstairs. The leader first asked Sun Chan some questions, mainly about her rtionship with Gu Junming and any anomalies during the disaster relief. Sun Chan answered them one by one.

    "Gu Junming is not that kind of person. I believe him and hope the leader can see the truth. He��s not like that. Besides, I��m just a countryside woman. To be honest, even if Gu Junming had that intention, wouldn��t he find someone young and pretty?" Sun Chan said with an embarrassed smile, continuing: "I heard that widow is over forty, think about it, during that cold weather, with an earthquake happening, Gu Junming didn��t bathe for several weeks, with a dirty face and tangled hair, struggling with no ces to eat or stay, and that widow with several kids, she would have the thought to be involved with that? I don��t believe it."

    Several leadersughed. Indeed, in the harsh winter, those soldiers were quite a sight when they returned. They were focused and serious; how could they have the mind for such things?

    Sun Chan continued, "That woman lived with kids together, Gu Junming was there with several people, the only time they were alone was that day repairing houses, but nothing happened, and he left after a few hours, there couldn��t have been anything."

    "But the widow said so, iming Gu Junming..." These words were awkward; it was harassment, after all, he flirted with her.

    Sun Chan said, "I think whatever anyone does is driven by motives. The widow and Gu Junming never met before, with no personal enmity. So ultimately, someone must have paid her, giving her benefits. She was filled with gratitude for the army then, why suddenly change her tune? Probably someone found her and promised something?"

    The leaders exchanged looks, someone said, "Did Gu Junming tell you?"

    Sun Chanughed, "Actually, that��s my spection; the informant was likely someone who had a grudge against Gu Junming."

    "Hmm, you��re smart."

    "I��m not smart; I just believe in Gu Junming��s integrity, he wouldn��t do such things."

    "Alright, you can leave, we��ll certainly investigate thoroughly."

    Sun Chan stood up and spoke a few words to them humbly and proudly, then left.

    A leaderughed, "The youngdy is quite young, but she speaks logically, quite insightful."

    "Indeed. This time clearly someone wants to frame Gu Junming, who could it be?"

    "This perhaps needs to start with that widow; she��s bound to know something."

    Without their investigation, Gu Junming had already resolved the matter, thanks to Sun Chan��s hint earlier. The opposite party must have paid the widow, with money or something else. Money was hard to trace, so looked into this widow��s rtives, her kids�� situation, discovering her eldest son, originally a dropout with no skills, suddenly got employed at a steel factory, and her daughter got specially recruited as an art soldier. Of course, next year, she��d join the medical examination.

    But this woman had no connections, yet could get her daughter enlisted, that was significant capability, and her age wasn��t suitable.

    Gu Junming reported the matter to the upper management.

    The leader summoned the widow; initially, she denied it vehemently.

    "It��s Gu Junming who bullied me! You guys can��t treat me unjustly just because you��re locals. If you don��t help me, I��ll report this above!"

    "Widow Wang, you understand why we��re saying this. You might not care about your reputation anymore, but you should consider your children. If they��re handicapped because of you, future marriages and family will be problematic."

    Widow Wang turned pale: "What do you n to do? Aren��t my children��s matters already settled?"

    "Settled? How did theynd these jobs? Should we spell it out for you? If you��re wise, confess quickly. Otherwise, we��ll send you to a military court, then your life is ruined, and your children would suffer too."

    Thebination of threats and persuasion terrified the widow into confessing everything.

 Chapter 183: Calm Matters

    <h4>Chapter 183: Chapter 183: Calm Matters</h4>

    Widow Wang, despite actually not looking bad, had a sallowplexion due to the years of hardship. She didn��t want to go to jail and cried, "Actually, it was a cadre who came to me; he told me to say this. If I listened to him, he��d arrange a good future for my son and daughter and even gave me a thousand yuan! I was muddle-headed... I had no choice! He threatened that if I didn��t obey, my son would never have a job for life. I was truly deluded!"

    Everyone frowned; what ways could a cadre have to arrange jobs for people? It seemed there was something else going on here.

    Suddenly, Widow Wang raised her head, ignoring the snot and tears on her face, and urgently said, "Comrades, you can treat me any way you like, but my son and daughter��s jobs have already been decided, you can��t change them. Otherwise, I��ll die right here; I won��t let them live like I do! You must promise me!"

    Of course, Widow Wang��s request was unreasonable, but there was no way to deal with her. Saying no would have her create a big fuss in the office; she was desperate, a widow long past caring about her dignity. The authorities could only temporarily lock her up in a small dark room while they quickly sought out the cadre to understand the situation.

    Bai Chuan hadn��t wasted his years in the army and news reached him early.

    He smashed a teacup! And cursed in his mind. He never imagined that Gu Junming was much smarter than that foster father! Who��d have thought he had such a clever mind? That cadre was obviously sent by Bai Chuan, but now he must be silenced.

    Before those people could reach the cadre, Bai Chuan called him: "You know what to say, right? You can��t be saved now, but your future is still long. You made a mistake and will need to leave the army, but after this, what you do will be different, and I can help you. If you reveal me, no one will take care of you, and your brother is also in the army, he will need help in the future too. Think this through."

    The cadre thought, Bai Chuan has been around for years and has a certain level of skill. Now his granddaughter is married to the Wang Family, her future is limitless, not someone to provoke. This matter was probably done for Wang Hu.

    If Bai Chuan were implicated, his brother wouldn��t have a good future either, so he gritted his teeth and took the me himself.

    He admitted to framing Gu Junming with the widow: "I��ve always been jealous of Gu Junming��s ability. We graduated from the same school, why is he already at the regimental level while I��m just a cadre? I just didn��t want him to rise; it��s my fault. No one directed me. I simply can��t stand him!"

    Gu Junming wasn��t familiar with him, merely acquaintances at best; seeing he took the me himself, he slightly frowned and said nothing further.

    If he didn��t admit it, could they use torture to extract a confession? So they quickly decided that he would be forcibly retired without any job arrangements.

    He left the army with a disgraced look.

    The leader asked Gu Junming about the widow��s situation: "She��s been locked up, causing a hunger strike, even attempting suicide, all to secure her children��s jobs. What��s your take on this matter..."

    Gu Junming replied, "We can��t do things without principles; her children came in against the regtions. Are we supposed to keep her daughter just because she can kick up such a fuss?"

    "But if during the New Year someone dies because of thismotion..."

    "I understand, I��ll handle this myself." Gu Junming gave a salute and went directly to the confinement room.

    Widow Wang was making a scene, her hair disheveled, her voice hoarse. Having been confined there all morning, she was focused on one thing: whether she begged or caused amotion, she would give her children a future, even if she had to die in the process. Anyway, she was a person with no shame, having faced countless insults throughout her life. As long as her children had prospects, nothing else mattered.

    Seeing Gu Junming arrive, Widow Wang felt ashamed but started crying immediately, "Mr. Gu, I know it��s my fault, you��ve been wronged, but I had no choice... Your army is sorge, it wouldn��t miss just one daughter of mine. Let me go to jail instead, I��m willing to bear my guilt, but don��t let my daughter be dismissed!"

    Gu Junming said calmly, "When I helped you before, I didn��t expect you to treat me this way."

    "I��m sorry, I had no choice, I��m all they have..."

    "You��re not the only one with such a situation! If everyone we helpedter turned against us, how chaotic would it be? If we fulfill your demands just because you cry and shout, what about everyone else?"

    "You��re not short of one..."

    "We must abide by principles and regtions; I won��t me you, I��ll treat this matter as if it never happened. Let your daughter participate in recruitment as usual; if she qualifies, we��ll keep her; if not, we��ll eliminate her. That��s the most I can do. As for your son, the factory will also offer him an internship period; if he performs well, he��ll stay, if not, he��ll be fired. Let it depend on his ability��isn��t that fair? What do you hope to achieve by causing a scene��get your children promoted to officials?"

    Widow Wang was about to cry and shout when Gu Junming said, "If you continue causing trouble, we��ll record your actions in your daughter and son��s files, and regardless of who it is, future promotions or transfers will be affected. Before you make a scene, better think about what��s best for your children��s future."

    Widow Wang closed her mouth. They hadn��t refused her opportunity; continuing her tantrum wouldn��t benefit her children.

    She looked at Gu Junming, tears streaming down, "I��m sorry, Mr. Gu, I was wrong."

    Gu Junming said, "Mm, stop causing trouble; it��ll affect the children, which isn��t good. You need to return the money you took; if you don��t, you��ll end up in court."

    Widow Wang responded, lowered her head, and dejectedly walked out. She felt too ashamed to face Gu Junming; as he had wholeheartedly helped before, she had nearly gotten him into trouble by turning against him.

    This matter ended as it was. Widow Wang��s children turned out well: her daughterter joined the military, and her son also stayed at the steel factory. But Gu Junming no longer dealt with her issues.

    Although Bai Chuan was not caught, there are no secrets in this world, and quite a few people knew he was behind orchestrating this matter; they all viewed him with much contempt.

    Especially when Wang Hu took back his application, openly pping Bai Chuan in the face. This clearly indicated that not only did he reject Bai Chuan��s favors, but he also inly expressed his stance: I am not in cahoots with Bai Chuan.

 Chapter 184: Not Easy to Mess With

    <h4>Chapter 184: Chapter 184: Not Easy to Mess With</h4>

    After being dismissed, it wasn��t long before the clerk was appointed to the power bureau, and it��s hard to say that Bai Chuan didn��t have a hand in this, although he kept it very secret. Gu Junming thought about it and didn��t do anything, just let someone spread this news unchanged.

    Soon, everyone knew the clerk was well arranged in his job, and who he was close to, who arranged it, was crystal clear.

    Bai Chuan was suddenly surrounded by opinions from all corners, angrily smashing a cup at home.

    "Damn it, Gu Junming! You really are impressive!"

    Gu Junming was not like his adoptive father, who is a stickler and confronts leaders over rumors, and leaves the army in a huff. Nor like his biological father, who would run away to keep himself safe when things happen. Also, the current situation wasn��t like years ago, it��s not a one-man show anymore.

    Bai Chuan thought that dealing with him in the future couldn��t be as reckless as now; this time, it really backfired.

    But fortunately, you don��t have evidence, what can you do about me? Bai Fann heard about Gu Junming��s matter and felt somewhat annoyed in her heart. This Gu Junming really is lucky! However, she didn��t mean to me Grandpa.

    Those who climbed up the ranks usually use tactics, no big deal, but why is Wang Hu so inflexible! Whenever she thought of his rigidity, she felt even more irritated. She didn��t want to go home.

    Bai Chuan looked at Bai Fann and thought, if Wang Hu doesn��t get it under control this time, he wouldn��t be useful in the future. So he didn��t rush his granddaughter back home, decided to wait, Wang Hu needs to bow his head. Would he send his granddaughter back just like that?

    Gu Junming hadn��t even started enjoying yet when he got a telegram from the vige saying Sun Lijuan and Zhao Xiuxia arrived.

    Sun Chan saw the telegram and got furious: "This pair of troublemaking mother and daughter, just what do they intend to do?"

    Gu Junming quickly went to the vigemittee to make a phone call, Wang Shufen was waiting there, the family had been quite chaotic these days.

    When they arrived at the Wang Family, they treated themselves like ancestors, not doing any work here, eating selectively, took a heap of Wang Shufen��s clothes and shoes.

    Zhao Xiuxia said: "I��ve raised my daughter for more than ten years, you can��t just take advantage of her for nothing! We want five thousand for the bride price, and also a house, several new outfits for me and Sun Lijuan, right? City folks get gold rings for weddings, we should too. On holidays, gifts should be given to us, or else, ha, ha, you shouldn��t expect my daughter to marry over!"

    Sun Lijuan didn��t think like her mother, calmly smiled: "My sister has dated several people, each one better than thest, she sure has good taste. Ha ha."

    This hadbeled Sun Chan as a vain and indecent woman.

    Fortunately, the Wang Family had long heard about the characters of this mother and daughter, and they absolutely didn��t expect them to be this shameless!

    At that moment, Mrs. Wang calmed them down and asked Wang Shufen to send a telegram quickly.

    "So, what should we do now? We can��t drive them away after all."

    Gu Junming said: "You go find the vige head, I��ve just helped Su Minjian find his family��s child, this little help can��t be refused. Get a few vigers to rough them up and kick them out."

    "But they are Sun Chan��s mother and sister after all..."

    "No problem. Sun Chan doesn��t care about these two, they are truly greedy beyond measure, give them money this time, and next they��ll want more, shamelessly." Gu Junming looked at Sun Chan opposite him.

    Sun Chan nodded, looking indifferent, what she should give was long given, she didn��t know what these two mother and daughter were up to.

    Gu Junming patted her shoulder: "Let me handle this. Harden your heart, or they��ll bully you for your entire life."

    Sun Chan said: "I understand, don��t worry."

    Wang Shufen hung up the phone and went to the vige chief��s house to inform Su Minjian.

    Su Minjian owed Gu Junming a big favor in the past, now there��s a chance to repay them, so he immediately took a few people to the Wang Family, once inside didn��t waste words, directly dragged the mother and daughter out.

    Father Wang and Mrs. Wang were a bit surprised, but saw their daughter shake her head at them, so didn��t intervene.

    Though they were good people, they really couldn��t tolerate someone causing harm to their family, especially the way they cursed Sun Chan with so many vile words, yet still expected her to support them, provide bride price; they really couldn��t stand such people.

    Sun Lijuan was hauled to the doorway, grabbing the door, screaming: "What do you want! Why are you making us leave!"

    "Without any reason, youe over eating and drinking, we suspect you are ruffians and swindlers! Go to the vige office for investigation!"

    Zhao Xiuxia also struggled desperately, kicking her legs on the ground, covered in dirt, her voice changed: "Are you crazy! We are rtives by marriage!"

    Wang Shufen went over, not in a rush, saying slowly: "Mistaken, we just called Sun Chan, she said she��s an orphan, no mother and sister at all. What��s the point of lying like this?"

    Zhao Xiuxia nearly fainted: "That vile girl, I raised her so many years, yet she doesn��t admit it, such an ungrateful wretch, I won��t let her have it good!"

    Wang Shufen said: "If it��s a family matter, is her household registration book with your family?"

    Sun Lijuan paused for a moment, then said: "That wretch transferred her registration just to shirk support! She really is our child, we aren��t lying, she��s dating your family��s son, isn��t it right to give some money?"

    "Is that so?" Wang Shufen still looked indifferent: "My brother said he has the guarantee letter you wrote, iming that you tried to frame them back then, got exposed, wrote a letter promising not to bother them anymore. Now you think you can scam money while Junming is away? What��s going on should be investigated back in the vige first."

    The faces of the mother and daughter turned pale instantly, couldn��t believe Gu Junming was so cold-hearted! Couldn��t imagine the Wang Family actually sent word to Gu Junming, these cheap people!

    "No, it��s that Sun Chan deceiving, that damned girl really put us in harm��s way!" Zhao Xiuxia shouted.

    Su Minjian said: "Don��t worry, things will reveal themselves. Follow us, we��ll find someone from the township police station, and have Gu Junming summoned back, then we��ll know what��s going on."

    They didn��t give them a choice, started to take the two away.

    Sun Lijuan didn��t want to be caught, pushed these people away: "I don��t want the bride price, I don��t care for this wretched ce, I��m going home!"

 Chapter 185 I’ll Beat You to Death

    <h4>Chapter 185: Chapter 185 I��ll Beat You to Death</h4>

    Zhao Xiuxia was originally dragged on the ground. Now she stood up and said, "Yeah, you better let go of me! We��re leaving! What a nice ce, even begging us toe wouldn��t make us want to!"

    All the people Su Minjian brought sneered at her. You im you don��t want toe, yet here you are, eating and drinking on others�� expense. What are you pretending now?

    Mrs. Wang said coldly, "Our ce is bad, yet you��ve stayed here for several days? You think we��re good people easy to bully, don��t you? Our Mingzi said you��re just a bunch of criminals, and we shouldn��t be polite to you! It��s already lenient not to release the dogs to chase you away. Hurry up and leave!"

    Zhao Xiuxia shouted in anger, cursing Sun Chan all the while.

    Sun Lijuan thought hatefully, am I not getting the money again this time?

    Father Wang stood aside smoking, his face gloomy. He doesn��t like hitting women, but these two are really abominable. Hearing Zhao Xiuxia��s increasingly unpleasant curses, he decided not to hold back and quickly grabbed a broken pole from beside the vegetable garden, striking Zhao Xiuxia.

    "Die, you old shrew! Let me teach you a lesson!"

    Zhao Xiuxia was hit several times on the forehead and back, causing her to lose bnce and fall face-first into the snow.

    Sun Lijuan was extremely anxious and quickly pulled her mother up: "Mom, are you alright?"

    Zhao Xiuxia wailed in pain, "You dare hit me? I won��t leave! If you have the guts, kill me here!"

    Mrs. Wang was very anxious. What if they decide to stay here?

    No one expected Father Wang to be unconcerned, sneering, "I fought in battles against the Japanese, you think you can threaten me? I��m already this old, tired of living long ago! Might as well kill you and contribute to my daughter-inw! Today I��ll beat both the old and the young to death!"

    He said this while swinging the pole at people, several rushed to stop him.

    Su Minjian shouted anxiously, "Old man, killing is against thew!"

    Father Wang gave Su Minjian a look and shouted loudly, "I��m an old rotter, what do I care aboutws? Let me finish them off! Don��t stop me, or I��ll beat you all to death too!"

    Su Minjian turned and yelled at Zhao Xiuxia, "Are you still not leaving? The old man of the Wang Family is notorious for his bad temper around here, do you all have a death wish?"

    "Want to stay in our house? Fine, I won��t beat you to death, but I��ll poison your food with rat poison and see if you die! You shameless things!" Father Wang shouted, spitting, striking Zhao Xiuxia��s back several times with the pole.

    Zhao Xiuxia is precisely the kind who bullies the weak and fears the strong, thinking, such an old man is ruthless, yet he��s a former soldier, afraid of who? Even if he kills us, he won��t face execution, better retreat!

    Pulling her daughter, they flee chaotically, with the old man continuously hitting, even grabbing a handful of Zhao Xiuxia��s hair, making her cry in pain, yelling, "Isn��t it ridiculous? I raised a daughter all for nothing, and you treat us like this? Where exactly was I wrong, that even a little betrothal gift for my daughter is denied? How can you be so unreasonable!"

    Sun Lijuan also cried, "Mom, stop talking. Since sister doesn��t consider us, let��s stop dreaming of being treated as family, you raised her in vain over the years, forget it!"

    "You��re so kind! She can treat her own mother like this, I wonder how well she��ll treat her inws! Bah!"

    Upon hearing this, Wang Shufen was unhappy. Initially, seeing them being beaten, she felt sympathy, but now hearing this makes her think they deserve the beating!

    "What do you mean by that? Clearly, you��re wrong, yet you curse Sun Chan?"

    "You��re siding with that little whore!" Zhao Xiuxia saw the old man rushing over again and retreated a few steps, wanting to leave but feeling unwilling, gritting her teeth she said, "Let me tell you, before she met your Gu Junming, she had dated several people! Who can guarantee she��s innocent, most likely she��s a slut! Even so, your family doesn��t pick, are you stupid?"

    She wanted to continue insulting a bit more, but seeing Father Wang��s pole feared her into retreating again.

    Everyone was furious upon hearing this, even Su Minjian frowned, this woman... insulting her own daughter?

    Sun Lijuan��s face remained calm but felt guilty, the real slut seemed to be her, but she still stuck her neck out, thinking, after all, no one knows, she understands Sun Chan would never speak ill of others.

    Mrs. Wang angrily pointed at Zhao Xiuxia, "We are all mothers here, if you showed any kindness to Sun Chan, she wouldn��t have ignored you now. The gods are watching over us, don��t overdo it! Saying such mean words today, aren��t you afraid of divine punishment!" Mrs. Wang was very angry. Sun Chan is such a good girl, always smiling, never minding extra work, spending money generously, and showing care for Gu Junming, despite her youth, she��s sensible, treating Wang Shufen and Kangkang well too. Alongside even inviting them to the city, one can imagine how much this mother and daughter did to alienate her.

    They came running to Gu Junming��s house causing a scene, ndering reputations with such nasty words.

    If not for the Wang Family being reasonable, knowing Sun Chan��s hardships, in another family, would this rtionship still hold? Clearly, they don��t want Sun Chan to have a good oue. In the countryside, a woman��s marriage is the most important thing in life, how malicious are they to do this!

    "I say this with evidence! She��s been involved with multiple men!" Zhao Xiuxia insisted stubbornly.

    Sun Lijuan remained silent but hoped the Wang Family believed her words.

    Father Wang stormed up and kicked Zhao Xiuxia in the stomach, frightening her to retreat several steps, causing Father Wang to lose his bnce and sit on the ground. Several rushed over to support him.

    The old man was unfazed, coughed for a while, then pointed at her, "Ungrateful woman, get lost! If you all don��t care for that girl, ignore her, stop throwing mud here! Get out of our vige!"

    It was his first time being so angry, even when Ding Quan came to the house, he wasn��t this furious.

    Wang Shufen also rushed to push them out.

    "We won��t say anything, just see what good result Sun Chan can get marrying into your family!" Sun Lijuan was pushed almost to sit on the ground, pulling her mother out, thinking, this vile person has really a lucky fate, even causing such a scene, your family is still so good to her.

 Chapter 186: That’s How I Hate You

    <h4>Chapter 186: Chapter 186: That��s How I Hate You</h4>

    Sun Lijuan was full of hatred in her heart, thinking, I don��t believe it, can you really get married? There are still two years left!

    But right now, they weren��t a match. The old man was cursing and throwing everything in this direction��broken bricks, tiles, even icicles. If any of that hit someone, it would be painfully lethal, so Zhao Xiuxia and Sun Lijuan hurried away.

    Upon seeing them leave, Su Minjian didn��t go after them; after all, this was a family matter and not something he could involve himself in.

    On the way back, Zhao Xiuxia was cursing incessantly. She had been struggling a lot just now, her whole body aching, and another n to get money had failed again.

    "What should we do now! We didn��t get a cent!"

    Sun Lijuan gritted her teeth: "It��s all right. I have just one year left until graduation. No matter what, Gu Junming said he would help arrange a job. Anyway, I��ll make it through this year, and once I have a job, everything will be different. If it doesn��t work out, we��ll borrow some money. All of this should be ounted on their heads."

    "Fine!" Zhao Xiuxia was also full of hate: "Let that little slut enjoy herself for another year!"

    When they got home, it didn��t seem like much at first, but by the evening something was wrong. Zhao Xiuxia felt intense pain in her back and stomach. She lifted her clothes to check and saw a bruise under her ribcage. Cursing once more, during those days there was no ultrasound to check such things, so she could only endure. She thought she might see a herbalist for some medicine.

    Who knew that the next morning she felt something below, and upon going to the toilet, found out her period hade. At her age, she was nearly menopausal, but it wasn��t impossible,ing only asionally every few months, so she didn��t think much and just used some paper. Who would have thought this time it wouldst a whole month and a half, continuously.

    But during that time Sun Lijuan was at school, and no one at home knew, and Zhao Xiuxia didn��t take much care of it, haphazardly using herbal remedies. But nothing could stop the bleeding, and it continued for two months before it finally eased. By then, she felt no pain and had long forgotten about it, not knowing that it had left behind a root for a future ailment.

    Zhao Xiuxia didn��t pay much attention, just assuming it was menopause, but whenever she thought of it, she would scold Sun Chan once again.

    "That damned girl, if it weren��t for you, how could I have so much bad luck? Once I��ve arranged Sun Lijuan��s job, I��ll settle the score with you principal and interest!" Of course, this waster talk.

    Let us rewind to the day they were driven away, in the city, Sun Chan was talking on the phone with Gu Junming, and learned about what they said about her back in the vige. She sighed and fell silent for a long time.

    Gu Junming patted her shoulder: "What are you thinking? Don��t worry, my parents won��t think much of it, they know who you are."

    "I��m thinking, just how much they hate me, wishing I was dumped by you, scorned by everyone, and they even want to sell me off into the mountains. When I was young at that household, I did every type of chore without a day of rest, never ate my fill, yet I never did them any harm, so what makes them hate me so much?" Sun Chan furrowed her brows, her face full of sadness.

    Gu Junming consoled: "I don��t think they hate you, but perhaps they��re jealous of how well you��re living. Such people, living poorly themselves, can��t stand seeing you do well, and would rather pull you down. Only when they see you suffering, can they be happy."

    She nodded: "That could be it. Let��s not talk about it anymore, I need to sort out the fruits."

    Together, they sorted out the fruits from the box, therge and good-looking ones were ced on the front table, while the less appealing ones were ced behind. The good ones were priced at one and a half per jin, whereas the less appealing ones were five yuan for three jin. If they were worse, they would take them home to make preserves.

    Initially, Gu Junming didn��t quite understand, but after doing business for a few days with Sun Chan, he learned more about it.

    Business was doing well, but seeing Sun Chan working over ten hours a day and sometimes helping Guihua with hotel matters, made Gu Junming feel a bit distressed for her.

    "You should focus more on your studies."

    Sun Chan smiled: "It��s okay, I��m not tired at all. Most of the time I��m just sitting. Don��t worry about me."

    What she had now was already very good, Han Dong personally delivered the fruit, saving her the trouble of restocking, otherwise it would be even more tiring.

    Gu Junming still didn��t want her to work too hard, so when customers came, he usually helped with the sales while Sun Chan read books on the side. If there was anything she didn��t understand, she would ask him to exin. Having graduated high school and attended military school, Gu Junming was much more knowledgeable than Sun Chan.

    Moreover, he was very serious and meticulous when exining things.

    "Whenever you have time, go to school and study. There��s no need to feel embarrassed seeing younger students. Everyone is learning after all."

    Sun Chan nodded and smiled: "I haven��t really worried about that. I know you only want the best for me."

    Gu Junming looked at the crowds outside the ss window: "This ce is nice, lots of people and the business isn��t bad."

    "Yes, I make a profit of about twenty yuan a day selling fruit." That was a lot more than most sried workers, and Sun Chan was even pondering whether to sell some simple snacks, but Gu Junming disagreed.

    "Don��t work too hard, focus on your studies. I have money, you don��t need to overdo it."

    Sun Chanughed: "I��m alreadyzy enough. Don��t spoil me too much."

    "So what if I spoil you? You are mine, of course I should treat you well." Gu Junming didn��t think much of it. Seeing Sun Chan lost in thought again, he said: "Don��t worry about it, my parents are fine."

    What Sun Chan was actually thinking about was her previous life.

    At that time, living in Zhou Jinzhu��s house, she was beaten and scolded, and her life was poor. Although Zhao Xiuxia didn��t pity her, she still had a bit of humanity, and during festivals she might even give some small bits of not so good things.

    But in this life, ever since she refused to marry Zhou Jinzhu and ran away to the city, she��d been hated by them, seemingly wishing to kill her.

    She smiled faintly: "I never knew someone could be hated to that extent."

    Gu Junming said: "This is the dark side of human nature, knowing that her own misfortune wasn��t your fault, yet being unwilling to ept it. There��s no need for you to think about them, even if you dug out your heart for them, they wouldn��t be moved."

    Sun Chan said nothing, leaning on Gu Junming��s side.

    Now that Sun Lijuan had a miscarriage and could never have children, and wasn��t good-looking, she indeed harbored intense hatred for her. But why? I am just going to live well, the more you hate me, the better I��ll live.

    Gu Junming said: "Don��t think about those who dislike you, think about me, think about Guihua and Yang Liu, people who care about you."

    "Mm, I understand, I��ll take good care of myself. The less they wish me well, the better I��ll treat myself."

 Chapter 187 Warm and Affectionate

    <h4>Chapter 187: Chapter 187 Warm and Affectionate</h4>

    At lunch, Sun Chan and I cooked some noodles, also made some for Guihua and Yang Liu. We saut��ed some cabbage in the pot and added eggs��simple, but it tasted pretty good. We mixed in some homemade chili sauce, and it was delicious.

    The four of us chatted as we ate, and Guihua, who loves to joke around, made the atmosphere lively.

    Guihua nced at the fruits, "Are they all sold out? When is Han Dong bringing you more?"

    "We��ll just wait. If not, I��ll go get some myself." It��s still New Year, so I didn��t want to trouble Han Dong.

    Just as we were talking about Han Dong, he walked in, and everyoneughed upon seeing him.

    Han Dong brought in two boxes of oranges and a box of bananas, "These are the best. You sell them first. I��ll bring you some pineapplester; they should sell well."

    "These are such valuable fruits; I��m afraid of losing money," Sun Chan said with a smile.

    Pineapples are expensive, and ordinary folks might not want to buy them, but Han Dong waved it off, "You don��t get it. Some fruits are for the rich. If you have them, they��lle to you. Trust me, you��ll be fine."

    "Alright then, if you have lemons, bring me a few too."

    "Okay." Han Dong had the fruits put down. Seeing everyone there and with noodles still in the pot, he quickly took off his coat.

    "You��re eating? Perfect, I��m hungry. Give me a bowl."

    Yang Liu felt a bit awkward seeing him, but after what happenedst time, she hade to terms with it. I like you, but if you don��t like me, that��s fine. We can still be friends, so she greeted him with a smile.

    Han Dong naturally didn��t mind, jokingly saying, "Haven��t seen you in days, why did you gain weight?"

    Yang Liu blushed, "I might have been eating a lot recently."

    "Happy heart, healthy weight. Haha." Han Dong red at Guihua, "Get me some noodles. Am I invisible to you?"

    "Toote! There��s none left for you," Guihuaughed.

    "Who says! Brother, let me try your noodles." Han Dong shamelessly took Gu Junming��s bowl, but Sun Chan had baked some sweet potatoes, which were delicious. Gu Junming didn��t mind, eating sweet potatoes and chatting quietly with Sun Chan.

    Han Dong kicked Gu Junming��s foot, "I don��te by often, and I even bring fruits, yet you��re ignoring me?"

    "Why are you acting like a woman, Gu Junming is about to be not right, let them say a few words, and you can��t stand it," Guihua said, giggling, "Do you perhaps like someone and have some thoughts?"

    Han Dongughed, "No, I just haven��t seen my brother and sister-inw in a while and wanted to chat."

    Guihua smirked but didn��t expose his feelings for Sun Chan, considering Yang Liu was still there. Joking about it wasn��t appropriate. Though no one spoke of it, Guihua had long noticed the love triangle.

    Gu Junming said, "You��re not getting any younger after the New Year, work hard, find a partner to ease your parents�� minds."

    "Don��t worry about me, brother. You should worry about yourself. I heard you arrested Zhao Feitian, and the Yang Family isn��t too happy."

    Gu Junming frowned slightly. Guihua was unaware of the situation, so Sun Chan briefly exined, "They arrested a human trafficker who was a rtive of the Yang Family."

    This rtive was from the family Han Dong had been set up with. Although he wasn��t interested in Yang Zhen, Yang Zhen��s family had a good rtionship with Han Dong��s family, so they mentioned it to Han Jinshan.

    Han Dong knew he had to bring it up, "That eldest daughter of the Yang family spoke poorly of you to her dad; be careful. Yang Xiong is fine, but his son isn��t great, and his reputation hasn��t been good over the years."

    Yang Yun��s arrogance was cultivated by her father. Offending Yang Yun would cause troubleter, but that��s what Han Jinshan said. Han Dong wasn��t interested in it, but knowing someone might harm his brother, he had to say something.

    "Will the Yang family retaliate?" Sun Chan was very worried.

    Gu Junming said, "Everything I do is aboveboard and can withstand scrutiny from above. As for Yang Yun... She might find me disagreeable, but she wouldn��t dare interfere with military operations. I��m not afraid."

    Sun Chan bit her lip, "I��m just worried she��ll scheme against you like Bai Chuan."

    Gu Junming sneered, "I��m not that easily controlled. Don��t worry."

    Han Dong said, "I won��t meddle in your affairs, but it��s never wrong to be cautious. There are plenty of petty people out there."

    "Alright, I got it." Gu Junming smiled, realizing Han Dong was maturing quite a bit over the year.

    Everyone then changed the subject to other topics.

    Yang Liu ate her noodles, asionally ncing at Han Dong, feeling a little lost seeing him handsome and chatty, but she was better than before. I��ll just like him silently. Until you marry, I��ll quietly like you.

    Han Dong finished eating and left.

    Yang Liu and Guihua also went off to get busy.

    Gu Junming helped Sun Chan clean up the dishes, "Focus on your studies. I��m returning to the unit tomorrow. Call me if you need anything. I��lle see you on the weekends. Don��t skip meals."

    Sun Chan smiled and nodded, "Got it. I��m not a kid anymore."

    "Then I won��t nag, but if you don��t tell me, I won��t be happy."

    No matter how long they spent together, they never felt bored. Even when not saying a word, it feltfortable.

    In the afternoon, Yan Kai came by. Seeing them, he was stunned. He just came to buy some fruit but unexpectedly ran into them, so they exchanged a few pleasantries.

    "I didn��t know you��d be selling fruits here. Since I��m an old customer, shouldn��t I get a discount?"

    "Look at that, take them; they��re not anything precious." Sun Chan picked out a few big red apples and some oranges for Yan Kai. She didn��t weigh them, indicating she wasn��t going to charge him.

    Yan Kai didn��t hold back, took them, and then said to Gu Junming, "Did you hear about that Zhao Feitian thing?"

    "Yes. Apparently, he refuses to admit anything, but some leads were found. The Yang family seems unwilling to save him, so it looks like he��ll be convicted," Gu Junming said.

    "Someone like that should��ve been caught long ago. But since we went to the Yang family to arrest him, won��t this be bad for the Yang family? If Yang Xiong has any objections..."

    Gu Junming said, "We��re doing our duty. We can��t avoid arresting someone just because we��re afraid of offending others." After hesitating a moment, Gu Junming shared what Han Dong said.

 Chapter 188 Harmony

    <h4>Chapter 188: Chapter 188 Harmony</h4>

    Yan Kai was indifferent: "Although Yang Yun��s father has some influence, he can��t directly control us. Besides, this time Zhao Feitian��s crimes are well-documented. If he gets involved, wouldn��t he be causing trouble for himself? He wouldn��t dare. But I��ve also heard that this Yang Xiong��s son is quite adept at maneuvering, and his reputation isn��t great. Anyway, I��ll help you ask around. Actually, there��s no need to worry, I��m going with you. If something happens, I can��t escape either."

    Gu Junmingughed: "I wasn��t nning on running. With such a serious matter, can the Yang Family still pull strings? Unless they don��t want to be in the military anymore. Anyway, your family always has intelligence, so help me check it out. If it doesn��t work, I��ll run."

    "Where would you run to? Forget it, my dad is around. It��ll be fine."

    Mr. Yan��s subordinates and friends are all over the world, so his words weren��t just lip service. Gu Junming trusted him, and also knew that Yang Yun��s father probably wouldn��t have a good impression of him. Last time, he offended Yang Yun, and with Zhao Feitian��s issue, Father Yang was thoroughly angry with him. However, Gu Junming remainedposed, believing that as long as he was upright, he couldn��t be easily taken down.

    Yan Kai suddenly pped his head: "Oh, I forgot to mention, we both got assigned to the newly formed unit. Howe you don��t seem too surprised? I thought you��d be thrilled."

    Gu Junming smiled: "What��s there to be surprised about? Wang Hu withdrew voluntarily, so it��s just the two of us."

    Come to think of it, if Wang Hu hadn��t given up, this matter would have been more difficult to handle. The higher-ups would also have to give the Wang Family some face, not to mention that the abilities of the three of us were not that far apart. If we took him out, it would be quite embarrassing.

    But now that Wang Hu has given up, it��s a win-win situation.

    "In the future, you��ll be the leader, and I��ll be the assistant. I��ll be following you from now on. I know you��re famous for being the cold-faced judge, so please go easy on me. Don��t make me lose face; I haven��t found a wife yet. If you cause me to stay single, I won��t agree."

    Yan Kai was in a good mood, so he joked with Gu Junming a bit.

    Sun Chan couldn��t help but smile when she heard this.

    Gu Junmingughed: "You��re the real expert at leading troops. Together, let��s whip those new recruits into shape."

    "Sure! Let��s show them what real soldiers are made of. Otherwise, when the timees, they��ll be useless. Just likest time during the mission, those who got injured did so because they weren��t well-trained." Yan Kai frowned, recalling that during the disaster relief, several soldiers hadn��t even started rescuing others before they were down themselves, either unable to move or with twisted ankles. It was simply outrageous.

    The two chatted a bit more about the unit��s formation, while Sun Chan, who didn��t quite understand, was tending to the stove on the side.

    Yan Kai nced at his watch: "I can��t keep chatting with you; I��m running out of time, I have to go."

    "Alright, I��ll return to the unit tonight as well."

    "See you then." Yan Kai left.

    Gu Junming noticed Sun Chan smiling quietly over there and said: "You seem quite happy."

    "I��m happy if you are. I saw the look in your eyes when you talked about the military; it was different. You really love being a soldier, don��t you?"

    Gu Junming nodded: "I��ve wanted to wear this military uniform all my life. Actually, this is my second favorite thing."

    "What��s your favorite?" Sun Chan asked curiously.

    Gu Junming didn��t speak. Instead, he took her hand, ced it over his heart, and then brought it to his lips to kiss it.

    Sun Chan��s face flushed instantly: "Why did you suddenly..."

    Gu Junming smiled broadly: "Suddenly got so bad? You really are my first favorite."

    Sun Chan turned away to do other things, her face burning. This guy actually knew how to sweet-talk.

    Gu Junming was happy on his end, but Wang Hu was quite upset. He nned to go to military school to further his studies. This was alsopensation from the higher-ups for him. His capabilities were on par, and his failure this time was not a good look. So, he��s going to study in Beijing for a year. This means he doesn��t have many days left at home.

    Bai Fann was waiting at home for him to apologize. She had decided that if he didn��t apologize, she wouldn��t go back. Who knew she��d get the news from her mother-inw that he was leaving and would be gone for two years! She was dumbfounded.

    Her mother-inw said: "I don��t really know why you two are arguing. But regardless, he��s going to Beijing, so don��t hold a grudge. Come back. I��ll make sure my son apologizes properly."

    Bai Fann didn��t know what to say, so she hung up the phone. She felt a sense of humiliation.

    "Does my husband make decisions without even informing me? What do you take me for!"

    Previously, her rtionship with her husband had improved slightly, so she felt a little reluctant now. But going back like this, wouldn��t it be embarrassing? She couldn��t sit still at home and finally decided to go back with her bag.

    Bai Chuan looked at her, feeling exasperated: "What a weakling! He didn��t evene to pick you up, and you��re going back by yourself. What does that look like? If you go back without saying anything, you��ll be under his thumb forever!"

    "Grandpa, he��s going to Beijing; I can��t just ignore it. I... I��m still his wife. I��m going back!" She left directly, ignoring Bai Chuan��s expression.

    Bai Chuan snorted, sitting on the sofa. Going to study in Beijing? Fine, when hees back, he can get promoted too.

    Gu Junming, you got me this time. I��ll remember it; you won��t get away with it in the future!

    When Wang Hu saw her return, he didn��t say anything. The matter had already been settled, and Bai Fann hadn��t been involved, so he wouldn��t take it out on her.

    The family had a meal together, and Bai Fann served Wang Hu some food, signaling her goodwill.

    That night, Wang Hu slept in the same bed as Bai Fann again.

    The two of them didn��t move; Bai Fann was anxious but knew what kind of person Wang Hu was.

    But during dinner, her mother-inw hinted so many times, yet you had no reaction?

    Leaving like this for a year. How could they manage without a child? But if you don��t make a move, where will the childe from?

    While she was anxious, a hand rested on her shoulder, and Bai Fann turned towards Wang Hu. In the moonlight, Wang Hu��s face looked very handsome.

    Bai Fann bit her lip and said: "You... not asleep?"

    Wang Hu didn��t speak, looked into her eyes, and only after a while kissed her lips.

    Bai Fann was a bit nervous, yet sweet. They could count on their fingers how many times they��d done this kind of thing; this was their first kiss. She couldn��t react for a long time, but Wang Hu didn��t stop, and gradually, she responded.

 Chapter 189: Makes No Sense

    <h4>Chapter 189: Chapter 189: Makes No Sense</h4>

    Every time Bai Fann was like a dead fish, but this time she was particrly enthusiastic.

    So Wang Hu also felt it wasn��t bad.

    He thought to himself, although she was mad at him because of what happened before, it wasn��t Bai Fann��s doing, and Bai Chuan wouldn��t have told her beforehand. He had been treating her poorly, finally treating her well for a couple of days, and then starting to cold shoulder her again. He felt really sorry for her, especially since he would be gone for a year.

    So he was particrly attentive to her, and for the first time, Bai Fann felt a sense offort. That��s when she realized that being a woman could be such a happiness, and the two had a very harmonious night.

    When Bai Fann woke up, Wang Hu hadn��t left yet, sleeping with his back to her.

    She touched his shoulder and said softly, "I��m sorry, I was being willful before. I won��t argue with you anymore. I��ll ask my grandpa to forgive you."

    Wang Hu murmured in response, not too happy, what does forgiving me mean? I did nothing wrong. This girl is actually not bad, but because of her unreliable grandpa, her values got all messed up.

    He thought for a moment, turned to look at her, and held her hand: "I hope you��ll be part of the Wang Family, the wife of the Wang Family, not the Bai Family. Can you do that?"

    Bai Fann was taken aback, does this mean he��s asking her to not be with Bai Chuan anymore?

    Wang Hu looked at her again: "Can you do that? Just be my wife, not the granddaughter of the Bai Family. Your grandpa��s decisions are his own; don��t get involved with him."

    Bai Fann bit her lip, not quite understanding what Wang Hu meant, but she figured he was dissatisfied with Bai Chuan.

    "Wang Hu, do you think my grandpa did something wrong?"

    "Yes," Wang Hu said seriously: "He thought by framing Gu Junming, he could help me get that position, but he never considered the harm it would do to Gu Junming. He��s an outstanding soldier too, and no one says, but I understand, that I can��t match his abilities. I can ept failure, but not undeserved sess. Stabbing someone in the back and framing them is what a petty person does."

    "You��re calling my grandpa a petty person? He raised me! Now that I��m married, do you want me to distance myself from him? Do you want me to be seen as an ungrateful granddaughter?" Bai Fann snapped upright, her chest heaving with emotion.

    Wang Hu said, "Do you think what he did was right? If this wasn��t your grandpa, what would you think of this person? Or do you also believe that framing someone for your goals, regardless of the method, is eptable?"

    "But my grandpa said he��d personally clear his name afterward! It��s just a rumor about an old, faded widow; who would really believe she had something with Gu Junming? If he wanted to really ruin him, he��d have picked someone pretty. My grandpa just wanted you to beat him, not to utterly crush him."

    "Do you think that��s the quality a soldier should have? Just because you clean upter, it��s not a mistake? The reason I haven��t spoken out about your grandpa��s actions is because of you and your grandpa, and that��s already against my principles. Next time, if something like this happens, I definitely won��t overlook it."

    Bai Fann didn��t say anything, turning her head away from Wang Hu, thinking why make a big deal out of it? It��s been so long, isn��t letting it go already? Such a stubborn, old-fashioned mindset.

    Wang Hu didn��t want to stop speaking to Bai Fann, feeling very disappointed. At this point, she still thinks he��s making a big deal out of nothing? This is a basic moral issue!

    After a while, Bai Fann said: "I��m sorry, my grandpa indeed didn��t handle this well, I��ll talk to him. I��ll ask him not to target Gu Junming anymore."

    "Okay. After I leave, you stay at home. As for your grandpa, I hope he won��t interfere with my matters anymore. My career, I still want to rely on my own efforts." Wang Hu said as he picked up his jacket, putting it on as he walked out.

    Bai Fann grabbed his pillow and threw it hard to the ground, theny back down. She felt so upset, she actually knew what her grandpa did was wrong, but since it was against Gu Junming, she felt it was just his bad luck. They were so proud, so even if things went wrong once, so what? Can all the good things happen to them?

    Forget it, she didn��t want to think about it anymore. Could he actually divorce her over this? She��d talk to her grandpa after Wang Hu left.

    Meanwhile, Sun Chan started being busy after Gu Junming returned to the army. Besides continuing to sell fruit, in March, she started going to a nearby middle school��s ninth grade to attend a few sses a week.

    This was arranged with Gu Junming��s help. She wore a cotton-padded jacket, tied her hair into a ponytail, and carried a homemade cloth bag, sitting in the back row of the ssroom. Attending a few sses like this allowed her to study more systematically.

    Many students were curious, not knowing what she was doing, older than most of them, not looking like a teacher either.

    Sun Chan felt a bit embarrassed at first, but got used to it over time. After all, she was there to learn.

    Chemistry was rtively easy to learn, as it starts in ninth grade, but physics began in eighth grade, making it a bit challenging. There were many things she didn��t understand, but listening like this was far better than blindly figuring things out at home. When Gu Junming returned, he could also help exin things to her.

    Many students were curious about Sun Chan, but no one intended to get too familiar with her, although someone did target her.

    Because Sun Chan was an adult and dressed well, one look and she seemed well-off.

    This noon, as Sun Chan prepared to head home, whten she reached the school gate, someone stopped her.

    "Stop right there."

    Sun Chan looked up to see a few ninth-grade girls, all tall and imposing, with the leader half a head taller than her.

    "Do you need something?" Sun Chan instinctively stepped back a few steps, sensing these girls were up to no good.

    "What are you doing here?" the leading girl asked.

    "I��m just here to attend sses."

    A girl behind them snickered, "Are you repeating a grade? You look so clueless."

    Sun Chan didn��t want to argue with her and didn��t want to say more, intending to step around them.

    But the leading girl blocked her: "Did I say you could leave?"

    "What do you want?" Sun Chan frowned.

    "We want to go to the store outside, but we��re out of money. Give us some." The girl held out her hand.

    Sun Chan frowned at her, wondering why this girl was acting like some hooligan or thug, trying to rob her money.

 Chapter 190 Making Acquaintances

    <h4>Chapter 190: Chapter 190 Making Acquaintances</h4>

    She thought for a moment and decided not to speak to these people, so she directly mmed into the girl at the head of the group and was about to leave.

    The few girls saw Sun Chan trying to leave like that, and she didn��t seem to be afraid of them at all. They all got angry and went for her bag: "Stop, who said you could leave!"

    Sun Chan gritted her teeth and said, "What do you want to do!"

    "Stop ying dumb here, hurry up and hand over the money!"

    They all thought, if it were an average school kid, there wouldn��t be much money. This woman was older, she must have quite a bit of money, and she seemed to be so honest at school, hardly saying a word. Even if they took her money, she probably wouldn��t dare to speak up. That��s why they surrounded Sun Chan.

    Sun Chan indeed had some money in her pocket because she wanted to buy some cotton fabric to make a pair of cotton pants for Gu Junming. Although it��s getting warm, she would soon take people to the mountains for training, where it��s still very cold and cotton pants are necessary. But it wasn��t much money, just over ten bucks, but she couldn��t let them have it, because that wallet was bought by Gu Junming for her, so why should she give it to them!

    Sun Chan red at the group: "I won��t give you the money, don��t go too far!"

    "This girl dares to shout at us? Let��s teach her a lesson first!"

    The girls grabbed her arms with several hands involved, used to bullying others, they were particrly rough. They grabbed Sun Chan��s arms painfully, which annoyed her. She pushed away a few people, grabbed her bag firmly to the front, ring at them, and kicked them hard several times.

    "Let go! What gives you the right to rob my stuff!" Sun Chan was resolute, refusing to give in.

    "Hillbilly, you better let go, or I��ll beat you to death!" one girl said as she went to pull Sun Chan��s hair.

    There was no way Sun Chan would heed their threats, and she got into a scuffle with the girls again. There was amotion and shouting.

    Other students around stayed far away, since these girls weren��t easy to handle, it was better to stay distant, otherwise they��d get bullied afterward.

    Although Sun Chan was strong, she was still outnumbered and soon got hit several times, her hair got messy, and her bag got ripped apart, revealing her light blue wallet. The girls�� eyes lit up. The leading girl picked up the wallet and ran.

    Sun Chan rushed up in a panic: "You can��t steal, that��s my wallet, give it back!"

    She held onto the girl��s waist firmly. The girl couldn��t break free, cursing angrily.

    "Hillbilly, you��re pretty strong! Let go or I��ll kick you to death!"

    Others came over punching and kicking, grabbing her hair: "Let go! You better let go!"

    But no matter how hard they tried, Sun Chan wouldn��t let go. Even if they took the money, they couldn��t take the wallet! Just then, someone behind shouted, "Wang Hui, what are you doing!"

    "Didn��t do anything, just fooling around." The girls seemed a bit fearless.

    Sun Chan, panting heavily with pain in many ces, shouted loudly: "They stole my wallet!"

    A female teacher came over, looking quite pretty, wearing a beige cashmere coat. Her face looked very displeased, and she grabbed Wang Hui��s wrist, snatching back the wallet and giving it to Sun Chan.

    She sternly said, "Wang Hui, are you trying to see the principal again? If you keep this up, forget about getting a middle school diploma!"

    The girls were very angry but dared not say anything. In their time, having a middle school diploma meant you could get a job. Most of them had little hope for further study, so the diploma was extremely important.

    The leading girl said, "Teacher, we didn��t steal her money, just joking around."

    The female teacher pointed at Sun Chan: "This is a joke?"

    Sun Chan was disheveled, with several scratches on her face, and her clothes were torn, looking quite serious.

    The girls weren��t nervous, still giggling, one of them said with augh: "We were really just joking around, didn��t do much, we��ll leave now."

    The leading girl gave Sun Chan a re, then waved her hand and left with the girls.

    The teacher looked at Sun Chan: "Are you okay? Do you need to go to the clinic?"

    Sun Chan smiled and waved her hand: "I��m fine, just superficial wounds."

    "That��s not okay, look at your hand bleeding,e with me, I��ll bandage it for you." The teacher led Sun Chan to the office.

    Sun Chan looked at her fingers, probably injured when she fell to the ground just now?

    On the way, they talked, and Sun Chan was surprised to learn that the teacher was Yang Zhen, the Chinese teacher at this middle school.

    Sun Chan stood there surprised, looking at her: "You��re Yang Zhen!"

    Yang Zhen was curious: "What��s wrong, you know me?"

    "I��m Han Dong��s friend," Sun Chan said with a smile.

    Han Dong had privately mentioned his blind date, saying the girl��s name was Yang Zhen. Although she had excellent qualifications, he didn��t think he��d get along with her.

    Sun Chan asked why: "Didn��t you say she��s graceful and pretty, why don��t you like her?"

    "She��s not my type. I want someone lively, optimistic, and sensible."

    Sun Chanughed: "Isn��t that Yang Liu?"

    Han Dong red at Sun Chan: "Stop teasing me, I don��t like her."

    "Do you even know what kind of woman you want?"

    "No, no, anyway, don��t worry about it. Before I turn forty, I probably won��t settle down. If I married someone now, it��d only harm her. I��m not thinking about marriage right now."

    Although Han Dong said he didn��t like this woman, he mentioned her several times, saying Yang Zhen was quite beautiful. So Sun Chan had a deep impression of her, unexpectedly meeting her at the school.

    Yang Zhen looked awkward upon hearing Han Dong��s name. She liked him, but he didn��t fancy her. Did he mention her to his friends? Did he say something unpleasant?

    Seeing Yang Zhen��s expression, Sun Chan quickly said: "Don��t worry, he didn��t say anything bad about you, just that you��re very pretty."

    Yang Zhen paused and looked at her: "Did he really say that?"

    "Of course, would I lie? It��s just that he seems unable to settle down right now,"

    Yang Zhen felt sweet inside, did he really say that about me?

    She wanted to hear more about Han Dong but being a woman, she held her own reserve, refrained from asking more, just smiled, and said nothing further. Yang Zhen led Sun Chan to the office and simply bandaged her injured wrist.

 Chapter 191: Gossipy Woman

    <h4>Chapter 191: Chapter 191: Gossipy Woman</h4>

    Sun Chan was very grateful to her.

    Yang Zhen said, "It��s nothing, these students were a bit too much. I��ll bring it to the school��s attention."

    She chatted more with Sun Chan and found out she was here to study, so she said, "In that case, we can��t let them trouble you again next time. Let��s record their misconduct; we can��t let them continue bullying others."

    Sun Chan replied, "I still don��t want to affect their graduation. After all, I won��t be staying here long. They��re causing trouble now, but I think they��ll understand when they grow up."

    "But if they keep doing this, you��ll be the one suffering," Yang Zhen thought. Sun Chan was indeed kind-hearted.

    Sun Chan thought for a moment and said, "I��ll handle it myself. Anyway, my current boyfriend is in the military, so they don��t dare go too far. After all, they��re kids; I still hope not to involve the school."

    Yang Zhen nodded, handed her a few books, and said, "I have some reference materials here. They��re quite detailed; take them home and have a look."

    Sun Chan was extremely grateful and hurriedly took them, saying, "Thank you so much!"

    "No need to be so polite," Yang Zhenughed, "We��re destined to meet, and I think you��re quite nice. I��m willing to be friends with you." She didn��t mention Han Dong since the matchmaking wasn��t sessful. If she did, people might think she still had feelings for Han Dong. In fact, she did, thinking of using this opportunity to get closer to Han Dong, but it��s not something she could openly say.

    Sun Chan didn��t think much of it, gratefully took the books, and said, "Thank you very much, Teacher Yang."

    "Just call me Yang Zhen, no need for ��Teacher.��

    When Sun Chan was saying goodbye, she suddenly remembered her bag was torn, with its contents scattered everywhere. She hurriedly rushed to pick them up, and in her haste, the change in her wallet rolled out all over the ce. The twoughed while quickly picking them up.

    Sun Chan thanked her and left.

    Yang Zhen watched her leave, wondering if having a good rtionship with Sun Chan would lead her to learn more about Han Dong. She found her motives foolish. After all, he didn��t like her; knowing his friend wouldn��t change anything. As she was tidying up the office, she suddenly saw a photo under the desk.

    Yang Zhen curiously picked it up to see it was a photo of the girl and a soldier together. They were standing side by side with sweet expressions; he seemed to be her partner. She ced it in the book, intending to return it to her tomorrow.

    Sun Chan went home and bought cotton. Then she realized the photo she kept in her wallet was gone. She bit her lip, thinking it might have been taken by those girls when they snatched her bag. What a nuisance! But since there were more at home, she simply nned to put a new one in when she returned; she didn��t think much of it. Just as she was about to pay, someone patted her on the shoulder.

    Since she had just been robbed, Sun Chan instinctively stepped back a few steps and looked at the person cautiously, "What do you want!"

    Gu Juntao was startled, thenughed, "Sister-inw, what��s wrong?"

    "Oh, it��s you!" Sun Chan said, embarrassedly smiling, "I thought it was... Sorry."

    Gu Juntao then noticed the injury on her face, "What happened? Did someone hit you? What on earth happened? Was it my brother...?" He began to feel tense inside, wondering if his brother was violent and had domestically abused her. What should he do? Should he stand by this? How could he behave like this?

    Sun Chan hurriedly waved her hand, "No, you��re misunderstanding. I was robbed."

    "What did you say?"

    Sun Chan looked at the cotton seller, who had an astonished expression and was clearly curious, so she hurriedly paid and took Gu Juntao aside. She exined the situation, and Gu Juntao frowned, "What kind of people are they? I��ll go talk to the school and make them discipline those girls!"

    If it were a boy, it would have been something else, but it was several girls. Wasn��t this crazy?

    "I still don��t want to escte the matter," she smiled, "After all, they��re kids. If they receive punishments, the record will follow them for life, wouldn��t it affect them forever? So I thought of asking Gu Junming to scare them a bit, and that��s it."

    "But can��t my brothere? Okay, I��ll scare them," Gu Juntao said with a smile, "Although I��ve retired, I still have my uniform, just without rank. But they probably don��t understand much, so let me handle it."

    Sun Chan felt a bit embarrassed as she was not very familiar with this brother-inw.

    Gu Juntao shrugged, "It��s settled then. If you wait for my brother toe back, who knows what kind of mess these girls would��ve made by then. I��ll handle it; it��s settled."

    "Alright, but be careful; those girls are quite tough."

    Gu Juntao smiled, "Don��t worry, I��m not as good as my big brother, but I��m no push-over either. These people need a good scare."

    "Thank you so much."

    "Why be polite? We��re family. I��ll escort you home."

    Gu Juntao picked up the cotton and walked Sun Chan home.

    The two weren��t too familiar with each other, but Sun Chan wasn��t like she was fresh from the vige and could engage in small talk. Gu Juntao, feeling happy and cheerful due to his marriage, chatted with her, and the atmosphere was pleasant and harmonious.

    When Sun Chan opened the door, a neighbor wasing out to throw trash. This woman, in her forties, usually didn��t interact much with Sun Chan. She nced at Gu Juntao, very curious, "Who is this person, youngdy? Your boyfriend?"

    "No," Sun Chan lowered her head, showing no intention of talking.

    The woman sensed it, pouted, and went back inside.

    Sun Chan generally didn��t interact much with neighbors, so she didn��t pay attention, but Gu Juntao furrowed his brow��these busybodies were the most troublesome. So when Sun Chan opened the door to let him in, he refused.

    "Go inside, Sister-inw. I��ll visit the school tomorrow at noon."

    "Wait!" Sun Chan called out to Gu Juntao and, wanting to give him something, found some fruits to give him.

    "Take them home for your wife to eat. They��re nothing special."

    Gu Juntao hesitated but eventually took them and left.

    Sun Chan returned to her room to make cotton pants.

    The neighbordy spoke to her husband, "The woman next door isn��t any good, living with a partner without being married, and now another manes along��they look close; who would��ve thought at such a young age, she��s quite adept."

    Her husband, smoking and cleaning the ashes, heard her words and red at her, "What are you bbering about? I think this girl is quite nice; stop spewing nonsense over there. Can��t they have a rtive or friends? How did you get such a dirty mind?"

 Chapter 192 Found Out

    <h4>Chapter 192: Chapter 192 Found Out</h4>

    The woman said defiantly, "But you can��t live together before marriage, can you?"

    "Hmph, we did what we��re not supposed to do before getting married, so stop saying what��s pointless!"

    The woman didn��t dare say more but still felt resentful. She was always one to take advantage, and it��s obvious Sun Chan��s family is wealthy. They throw away a lot of food��vegetables, eggs, fish��but never think about sharing some with us. My son is still in school and needs to strengthen his body. Thest time I asked for some cabbage, they only gave me a bowl of cut-up scraps. Stingy! And thinking about how Sun Chan gave that man so much fruit made her even unhappier.

    Her husband is okay, though. He tells this woman not to go ask Sun Chan for anything.

    But the woman still doesn��t listen, thinking, this time I caught her with another man; she would surely have to give me something to shut me up, right? Otherwise, if I spread this around, she��s done for.

    Sun Chan left after lunch to sell goods, and the woman kept waiting. In the evening, she heard the neighbors making noises, so she pretended to go out and dump ashes and followed them outside.

    Seeing Sun Chan indeed outside, she smiled and said, "Sis, your family sells fruit, right? Doing well in business, huh?"

    Sun Chan replied, "Not great, not really making money."

    "Sigh, my son loves fruit too, but you know, life conditions aren��t great now, and not everyone can afford fruit. His dad��s wages barely cover potatoes, so where to buy fruit?"

    Of course, Sun Chan could hear she wanted fruit, but she never got along with this neighbor and was not warm when speaking with her. Plus, the woman was mean and always talked about neighbors behind their back, so Sun Chan didn��t like her and pretended not to understand.

    "There��s no way around it. Wages aren��t high nowadays. Nothing is easy." She finished speaking and went back inside.

    The woman said, "I saw you give fruit to a stranger today. You two have a good rtionship?"

    Sun Chan nced at her, answering coldly, "We��re rtives." What did that mean? Are you checking household registrations, or trying to expose my misconduct?

    Sun Chan ignored her and shut the door, going inside.

    Seeing Sun Chan being so clueless made her even angrier. She cursed quietly, "Hah! Selling fruit doesn��t make you special,dy; I look down on your kind of fox spirit."

    The next day, after Sun Chan left, the woman walked outside to buy tofu and gossiped with the neighbors, spreading nasty rumors about Sun Chan living with her boyfriend, often hooking up with other men, having them at her ce, and more.

    "So young and already doing this? But I heard her boyfriend is an officer in the army."

    "Being in the army doesn��t pay much. She dresses and eats well; doesn��t she need money?" The womanughed.

    This meaning was quite offensive, insinuating Sun Chan relied on rtionships with other men to support herself.

    Everyone was eagerly gossiping when suddenly someone said from behind, "Auntie, is what you said true? Is Sun Chan really such a woman?"

    The woman turned back to see a girl in her twenties, well-groomed and well-dressed, but with an arrogant expression.

    "What��s the matter? Do you know her?"

    The girl nodded slightly.

    The woman felt flustered and quickly said, "I was just talking casually. Didn��t mention names, why youe asking me! I said nothing!" She turned and left.

    No kidding, who knows what rtion this woman has with the neighbors? If Sun Chanes to confront me, I��m doomed!

    But unexpectedly, the girl caught up and grabbed the woman��s arm at the alley, "Don��t worry, I have no rtion with Sun Chan and actually hold a grudge. I won��t betray you; I just ask, is she in a rtionship yet still messing around with others?"

    During her hesitation, the girl already handed her a bunch of cash, mostly small bills, but including a ten-dor bill. The woman��s heart was delighted, quickly collected them, and looked around to see no one was there, then pulled her aside, "I wasn��t just saying for nothing! I saw her yesterday tangled up with a man outside, even nning to meet at some school entrance."

    The girl nodded, then smiled, "Is that so? Alright, I��ve got it." She left afterward.

    The woman patted her chest and left with the money. Anyway, she just said it casually; if questionedter, she��d deny it all. It��s their problem.

    This girl was Yang Yun. Twice, she had been scolded and taught a lesson by Gu Junming and was even rebuked by her grandfather. After the New Year, she was sent to train with the troops, nearly overworked to death, and only got retrieved because her father pleaded.

    She was filled with hatred towards Gu Junming but couldn��t trouble him, so she targeted Sun Chan.

    Yang Yun thought, if she could find trouble for this girl, she��d surely teach her a lesson! She found out where she sold fruit and followed her here.

    She wouldn��t personally dirty her hands, couldn��t endure that hardship; it was one of her father��s secretaries who got the information. She came early to check it out, and unexpectedly heard the woman gossip about Sun Chan, making her ecstatic.

    This woman was really asking for it! If you��re so improper, not telling anyone would be unfair to you!

    Last time your boyfriend treated me that way, this time I won��t be polite!

    She returned home and told her father, "Dad! That Gu Junming fancies himself tough, but his partner isn��t decent. Sneaks around while he��s away. Let him see, I want him humiliated!"

    Father Yang nced at his daughter and frowned, "Is it worth it? You don��t have a big feud with Gu Junming; does it have to be this irreconcble?"

    "I won��t stand for it! Your daughter has many ws and faults, but dad, you ignore them. Why worry about him, and let him speak nonsense in front of grandpa causing me trouble? If you won��t help me vent, I won��t talk to you anymore!" She finished and sat aside sulking.

    Father Yang chuckled, "Alright, I��ll go take a look then." He wasn��t as steadfast as his father; previously, Zhao Feitian had provided him many benefits, proper gifts during holidays, and help with his subordinates�� work arrangements. But now, because of Gu Junming, Zhao Feitian was captured, leaving him without support, very ufortable, and losing potential benefits. Father Yang didn��t dare oppose Gu Junming openly, but secretly retaliating a bit wasn��t out of the question.

 Chapter 193: Photo

    <h4>Chapter 193: Chapter 193: Photo</h4>

    Yang Yun was delighted when Father Yang agreed: "Dad, thank you, you��re always so good to me."

    "You, since you know I��m good to you, you should strive to do better! You��re already in your twenties, you can��t always live under your parents�� protection. You went to the army for just a few days and came running backining, how does that work? Don��t you want a bright future?"

    Yang Yun couldn��t care less,ughing: "Of course I want a bright future. You and mom only have one daughter, I have to bring honor and glory for you both, but I��ll try hard, and you have to treat me well too!"

    Father Yang was startled at first, then smiled faintly: "Yes, we only have you. Who else would we be good to?"

    Yang Yun didn��t notice her father��s expression and looked back at the kitchen: "Smells so good! Are we having fish soup? Let Yang Zhene over. Doesn��t she like fish?"

    "The school isn��t close. Don��t bother."

    "No! You know she doesn��t get to eat well at the dorm. Uncle and Aunt live far away."

    "You��re quite concerned about her. Go call her."

    Yang Yun hummed a tune as she went to make the call. She didn��t really like Yang Zhen but found her cousin weak and useless. She looked down on her softness but felt a sense of satisfaction from it, like inviting her for a meal, a feeling of charity, and Yang Zhen always said nice words that coaxed her into a good mood.

    This satisfied her vanity and made her parents and grandfather think she was a kind person.

    Yang Zhen received Yang Yun��s call. She didn��t really want to go, it was so cold, and the distance was far, but knowing her cousin��s temper, who knew how much trouble it would cause if she upset her. She depended on her uncle and aunt for many things now, so she cheerfully agreed.

    By the time she arrived, Yang Yun was already eating. When she saw Yang Zhen, she pursed her lips: "Came sote, starved to death, not waiting for you."

    "No problem. Where��s grandpa?"

    "Not home, went to a war buddy��s ce."

    Yang Zhen felt troubled. Without the old man, she would be bullied unrestrained. Yet, she still smiled and greeted her uncle and cousin before sitting down to eat. Father Yang didn��t feel much about her and just asked a few casual questions.

    Yang Yun finished eating first. With nothing to do, she picked up Yang Zhen��s bag: "Got anything good to eat?"

    "Don��t touch other people��s stuff!" Father Yang frowned: "You��re not a child anymore, still so immature!"

    Despite saying this, he didn��t seem genuinely angry.

    "What��s the big deal, sister doesn��t have anything private!" Yang Yun didn��t care at all. Yang Zhen was dissatisfied all night but dared not speak up and let her have her way.

    Yang Yun casually grabbed Yang Zhen��s bag, and a book fell out. Along with it, a photo slipped out.

    "Whose photo is this?" Yang Yun was curious. Were there two people standing together?

    She picked it up and became very angry: "How despicable! How do you know these two people?"

    "This was yesterday..."

    "You can��t associate with them, I��m so disgusted by these two!" Seeing Yang Zhen had a picture of Sun Chan and Gu Junming, Yang Yun was deeply annoyed and directly wanted to tear it up. She��s never been humiliated like this, all because of these two, and Yang Zhen even had their photo!

    "Are you friends?"

    "I just met Sun Chan..."

    "Even that��s not okay!" Yang Yun shouted domineeringly: "You mustn��t be with them." She reached out to tear.

    Yang Zhen was very anxious, quickly stopping her: "Stop it, I picked this up, what if you damage it carelessly?"

    Yang Yun didn��t care, she pushed Yang Zhen away, making her stagger and almost fall.

    The photo was torn in half.

    Father Yang couldn��t stand it anymore; how did his daughter turn out like this?

    He stopped his daughter and took the remaining photo: "Enough, don��t act up! Your sister was nearly knocked over by you. What are you trying to do?"

    "Who��s letting her be nice with that wretched girl! Dad, look, this is the nasty girl I mentioned before..."

    "That��s enough, stop rambling!" Father Yang wasn��t going to talk about catching an adulterer in front of others, shut his daughter up, and nned to return the photo to Yang Zhen.

    "Your sister��s immature, don��t take it to heart."

    "It��s fine." The photo was already torn, what could Yang Zhen say.

    Yang Zhen was never one to fuss much. Just as she was about to take it, she noticed Father Yang frozen, staring at the photo, his hand paused. His expression was strange.

    "Uncle, what��s with this girl?"

    "Nothing, nothing." Father Yang thought, how could coincidences like this happen, it must be a mistake.

    Yang Yun pouted: "What��s so special, just a torn photo."

    "Stop talking about this! Your sister has to return to school soon, this is getting out of hand!"

    "Dad..."

    "Enough, don��t we have things to doter? Let your sister eat."

    Yang Yun finally stayed silent, Yang Zhen sat to eat, feeling ufortable, her cousin increasingly outrageous. But her uncle never intervened; if her grandfather were around, it��d be better. Without him, she��s like a tyrant. Yet her uncle pampered her, it was getting worse.

    Still, despite this, many people liked her. Though Yang Zhen was sensible, good at her studies since childhood, her fate was always bad. She chuckled bitterly, truly life is different for different people.

    Yang Zhen ate just a small bowl of rice and took her leave.

    Yang Yun had to go to the Education Committee on the way, so she got off halfway, without knowing what these two would do. Thus, she missed what was about to happen soon.

    As she got off, Yang Yun still instructed her for a while: "Don��t hang out with her."

    Yang Zhen only smiled, said nothing, feeling increasingly unfond of Yang Yun in her heart. Forget it, I��ll stay away from her in the future.

    Sure enough, at noon, when Sun Chan got out of school, she was again blocked by the same girls from yesterday. They stood a bit away from the school gate but were still on Sun Chan��s way.

    There were more girls today, seven or eight of them, their attitudes arrogant, surrounding her together.

    Sun Chan held her bag and looked at them: "You don��t want to study anymore,ing here to make trouble again?"

    "Haha, besides us few, the rest stopped studying long ago. You can��t threaten us with that anymore."

    "Exactly, you brat, you really think you��re special? If you��re smart, give us your wallet! Or else, you won��t end well!" a tall girl shouted.

 Chapter 194 Misunderstanding

    <h4>Chapter 194: Chapter 194 Misunderstanding</h4>

    Sun Chan looked indifferent, without a trace of fear. The girls, seeing her like this, got even angrier.

    "Looks like she still doesn��t know what��s good for her! Let��s teach her a lesson together!" They all rushed over, ready to pull hair and fight, and some even tried to snatch her purse.

    But just as they charged, they were stopped. The girls felt as if their arms were squeezed by pliers,pletely unable to move.

    "Let us go, who are you?" They struggled, looked back, and were all frightened.

    It turned out there were about seventeen or eighteen soldiers standing behind them, all looking at the girls seriously. They were tall and imposing, clearly not to be messed with, and leading them was Gu Juntao.

    Sun Chan was quite shocked; she hadn��t expected her brother-inw to bring so many people to back her up?

    The girls initially wanted to fight, but soon realized theirbat power was too weak. A few firm hits felt like mere scratches,pletely ineffective. The slightest squeeze from the soldiers left them in tears, quickly making them behave.

    The leader said tremblingly, "What do you want?"

    Gu Juntao said, "Shouldn��t I be asking that? What do you want? Thisdy is our leader��s fianc��e; offending her means offending our unit. You caused a ruckus yesterday, and our sister-inw didn��t say anything, yet you dared to act up again today! You��ll just have to go to the unit!"

    Another young soldier said, "Exactly! So brazen, thinking you��re something special? Sister-inw don��t worry, we��ll send these girls to the military court and lock them up for a few years."

    The girls paled in fear: "What did you say? Court...court?"

    "Yes, make you feel the consequences of bullying people!" Gu Juntao snapped coldly.

    "No! We don��t want to go to jail!" The girls cried in fear, and one even knelt to Sun Chan. They only wanted to imitate the thugs they saw on TV, never really intending to do anything bad. Now hearing about sentencing, their lives seemed ruined.

    Sun Chan, seeing how frightened the girls were, felt sympathy and looked at Gu Juntao: "Let them go if they realize their mistakes."

    "Yes, we really were wrong, truly wrong, we��ll never dare again!"

    The leading girl also cried: "I was really wrong, will never act up again, nor ask for money! Sister, please say a word for us!" She pleaded with Sun Chan.

    Sun Chan looked at Gu Juntao: "Let them go. I don��t me them anymore. They are just kids; I won��t make things difficult."

    Actually, some were older than Sun Chan herself, but having lived two lifetimes, she was considered mature.

    Gu Juntao sneered: "Alright, for my sister-inw��s sake, I��ll give you a chance. Write a self-criticism, detailing what you��ve done. This time it will be forgotten; next time, I��ll take you and the letter straight to her. See how your lives turn out."

    "Got it." The girls, unwilling but helpless, squatted down and borrowed paper and pens from each other to write their self-criticisms. Some wrote while crying, feeling very wronged.

    Sun Chan saw the leader crying the hardest and thought, what��s there to feel wronged about? I��ve already spared you once, and you��re still acting up.

    Gu Juntao, far from showing sympathy, made his soldiers narrate the girls�� actions to the passersby. The surrounding people all gossiped, disapproving of the girls.

    They felt ashamed, lowering their heads.

    Gu Juntao said, "Realized your mistakes now? Who made you do such things? Not getting arrested is already lucky. Hurry and write!"

    Once the girls finally finished their self-criticisms, Gu Juntao collected them, ncing casually before giving a scare.

    "Alright, this matter is settled; one more slip-up, and we��ll show no mercy!"

    The girls all agreed quickly and ran away.

    Sun Chan hurriedly thanked the soldiers: "Really, thank you all so much this time. Thank you, thank you."

    "No need to be polite, sister-inw!" These people were all old friends of Gu Juntao, and knowing our sister-inw had issues, they��d naturallye without hesitation.

    Sun Chan smiled: "I��ll treat you all to dinner, then."

    "No, we have to head back; our break��s nearly over." They declined together, just a small matter, what dinner?

    Gu Juntao bid farewell to his friends, thenforted Sun Chan for a bit: "I��m headed back then. My wife is waiting for me."

    "Alright. Let��s have dinner together sometime." Sun Chan was much friendlier to Gu Juntao, feeling unfamiliar and thus reserved with the soldiers, but she smiled warmly.

    Gu Juntao nodded with a smile, noticing some strands of hair on Sun Chan��s arm, likely from the scuffle, and quickly helped her remove them.

    At this moment, Yang Yun, in the car with Father Yang, saw Sun Chan and Gu Juntao chatting andughing, witnessing their apparent closeness, making Yang Yun sneer.

    "See? With Gu Junming not around, this woman��s so shameless!"

    Father Yang said, "It��s not appropriate. Gu Junming, no matter what, is a soldier, and she, as a military spouse, creates such a scene?"

    "Let��s go catch them in the act. See what face Gu Junming has left!"

    "Watch what you��re saying, kid," Father Yang thought likewise but couldn��t outright say it: "We��re letting Gu Junming realize this person��s true colors sooner, not making wild usations."

    "Got it," Yang Yun sulked; anyway, once this blows up, Gu Junming loses face too!

    The car arrived and stopped, Yang Yun quickly got out. Gu Juntao and Sun Chan were walking aside, still chatting.

    Gu Juntao, now discharged, didn��t have a car and took the bus.

    Sun Chan smiled: "Do you have change? I��ll get your bus ticket!"

    "No, I have it." He reached to hold Sun Chan��s arm, preventing her from paying, making their interaction appear even closer.

    Yang Yun approached: "Hey! What��s going on here? In broad daylight, not being cautious with your behavior!"

    Sun Chan and Gu Juntao jumped in surprise, turning to look, not recognizing Yang Yun: "Who��s this?"

    Sun Chan quietly exined, remembering this unreasonable girl, especially sincest time grabbing someone, she shed with Gu Junming. Gu Junming had also told her afterward.

    Gu Juntao nodded: "So she��s from the Yang Family? Heard long ago, unreasonable. Very harsh."

 Chapter 195: What Exactly Do You Want to Do

    <h4>Chapter 195: Chapter 195: What Exactly Do You Want to Do</h4>

    The Yang Family is somewhat renowned for their meritorious achievements, but the younger generation seems to be declining.

    Yang Yun saw the two still talking intimately without any scruples and sneered, "Sun Chan, have some dignity! Regardless of anything, you are Gu Junming��s fianc��e, yet you��re consorting with another man. I��m the one who caught you, and you won��t even correct your behavior. What is this? Do you really think I don��t dare tell Gu Junming?"

    Sun Chan frowned slightly, "Are you misunderstanding something?"

    "What misunderstanding?" Yang Yun aggressively pointed at Gu Juntao, "I clearly saw you twoughing and joking around just now, and you still won��t admit it? It��s just improper!"

    "That��s not the case." Gu Juntao said with some annoyance, "How can a young unmarried girl like you say such things? Aren��t you going too far?"

    "How am I going too far? Are you afraid of being talked about? Dad! What kind of crime is it to consort with the fianc��e of a military man? Just arrest him and send him to a military tribunal!"

    Gu Juntao couldn��t help butugh. They were just scaring those girls; who knew they��d be threatened instead as soon as they turned around.

    Yang Yun snorted. At this point, he was still joking around; he definitely wasn��t a good person.

    She urged her father to help deal with Sun Chan, but when she turned around, she saw her father was lost in thought, showing no intention of helping, and was stunned.

    "Dad!"

    Father Yang stared nkly at Sun Chan, seemingly thinking of something important, but he still didn��t speak.

    Sun Chan also felt very strange, what was up with this man?

    "Dad!" Yang Yun ran over and grabbed her father��s wrist, "What are you thinking about?"

    "So simr, very simr..." Father Yang involuntarily blurted out.

    "What does she look like?" Yang Yun asked curiously, "Dad, aren��t you going to reprimand Sun Chan?"

    Father Yang said, "You said her name is Sun Chan?"

    "Yes, her surname is Sun! I checked, she��s a poor person from the countryside! But she��s very calcting, clinging to a soldier from the city. Dad, aren��t you going to do anything about her?" Yang Yun spoke loudly, full of contempt.

    Father Yang thought, surname Sun, from the countryside, seems like it��s not, but it��s really a coincidence that she looks so simr!

    He originally wanted Gu Junming to have a tough time, but because of this girl, his attitude wasn��t so strong anymore.

    "Forget it, I think there��s probably some misunderstanding?"

    "What misunderstanding!" Yang Yun stomped her feet anxiously, "Didn��t we all see it clearly, the two of them being improper, how did you suddenly change your mind! Dad, did you forget how Gu Junming treated you?"

    Father Yang didn��t speak, thinking of Gu Junming also made him unhappy. So he nodded, instructing the driver behind him to call Gu Junming and have hime over. He also asked to invite one of Gu Junming��s superiors.

    Yang Yun pped her hands andughed, "Quickly arrest them, then send these two to Gu Junming."

    Sun Chan looked at Yang Yun, "Shouldn��t you need evidence when you falsely use others?!"

    "Do I need evidence for what I saw with my own eyes?" Yang Yun sneered, "What, now you know shame? Toote! I won��t let you off, and I will make Gu Junming lose face too! The way you humiliated me back then, I will repay you ten or a hundred times over!"

    Sun Chan didn��t say anything, thinking, this woman truly has been spoiled, with a wicked heart but not a clever mind, actually saying all her thoughts out loud.

    Father Yang carefully looked at Sun Chan again; indeed, her features were very simr. But her temperament was different, and even if that child were alive now, they should be in Beijing, so how could theye from the countryside? Surely, it wasn��t so... so he stopped looking at Sun Chan. There were many people in the world who looked alike, after all.

    Seeing the driver running to the school to borrow a phone, Gu Juntao raised an eyebrow, seemingly concluding there was a misunderstanding, thinking there was something between them, andughed.

    Sun Chan said, "These two really... I��ll go exin!..."

    Gu Juntao whispered, "Since they��re willing to misunderstand, let them pay a price, lest they keep scheming against my brother!"

    "But isn��t this person quite influential?"

    "Although they have some influence, they��re not from the local military, so they can��t interfere, and look at that woman, how annoying. Give her a lesson, so she doesn��t be a gossip in the future!"

    Sun Chan smiled and nodded, saying nothing more.

    Seeing the two still talking andughing without restraint, Yang Yun became more angry. This woman was truly shameless, even caught red-handed and still dared behave this way?

    Father Yang found it strange; was there some hidden situation here?

    At this time, Yang Yun grabbed his sleeve, "Sun Chan��s neighbor. Witnessed Gu Junming and Sun Chan living together before marriage, indecent conduct! This person also went to her house, clearly not a good person!"

    Upon hearing this, Sun Chan immediately frowned, "What nonsense are you talking about!"

    "Anxious now? Unfortunately, I won��t sympathize with you!"

    The driver returned, saying someone woulde shortly.

    Father Yang instructed again, "Since there��s a neighbor as a witness, call them over too."

    Although Sun Chan and Gu Junming were fianc��s, living together in advance wasn��t too excessive, but if they insisted on pursuing responsibility, it wasn��t impossible. Moreover, Sun Chan herself still had improper conduct; men often sought her out. If they can capitalize on this aspect, it could give Gu Junming a hard time.

    He was reportedly about to get promoted, so if something could be done to interfere, it would be quite satisfactory.

    "Sure, no problem." Yang Yun nowpletely forgot how she promised that neighbor earlier. After all, what she said wasn��t wrong, how could one refuse to testify? The driver, understanding the address, left.

    Gu Juntao found it extremely amusing; they were determined to ruin someonepletely. He checked the time and said, "Alright, I��ll go make a phone call to ask for leave, seems like I��ll be backte." He had originally nned to watch a movie with his wife, but now that n was ruined.

    Seeing Gu Juntao leave, Yang Yun, not trusting him, closely followed. She feared Gu Juntao would escape along the way.

    Sun Chan remained calm. For things she didn��t do, no matter how she��s falsely used, it wouldn��t matter.

    Father Yang looked at Sun Chan, "You... is your father��s surname Sun? What did he do?"

    Sun Chan had no good impression of this man, so she didn��t want to respond, saying indifferently, "He was a farmer, he��s already passed away."

    "Do you have any family members?"

    "I have an older sister."

    Father Yang nodded and asked no more, confirming it wasn��t as he thought.

    The two stood apart from each other when someone approached. It was Bai Fann.

    She wasn��t working that afternoon because Wang Hu had gone for training. Feeling upset, she wandered around and unexpectedly ran into Sun Chan and Father Yang!

    She recognized this person; he was a senior official!

 Chapter 196 Confrontation

    <h4>Chapter 196: Chapter 196 Confrontation</h4>

    Seeing the serious expressions on the two people, she was puzzled. What on earth was going on? So she went over to greet them.

    "Hello, Uncle Yang."

    Father Yang saw that it was Bai Fann and said with a smile, "It��s the Bai Family girl. I heard you got married. How is it going?"

    "Pretty good. My grandfather was just talking about the old mantely, saying that if there is time, he would like to have a drink with him."

    "Sure, let hime over when he has time."

    "Isn��t this Sun Chan? What��s happened?" Bai Fann looked at Sun Chan with a half-smile.

    Sun Chan gave a cold smile and didn��t speak. Having been calcted against by Bai Fann so many times, if she could still coexist peacefully with her, that would be unbelievable!

    Father Yang was not as talkative as his daughter and was not a man of many words; he just said, "There��s a matter that needs investigating. If you have something to do, go ahead!"

    Of course, Bai Fann didn��t leave and said with a smile, "Has something happened again with Sun Chan? Ever since she started dating Gu Junming, there have been endless minor and major issues!" She emphasized the word "again" to show that ever since this woman has been with Gu Junming, things haven��t stopped happening.

    Father Yang nodded, "That��s right."

    "What��s going on, Sun Chan? Is it a quarrel this time? Let Sister help you sort it out." Bai Fann looked at Sun Chan with a smile.

    Last time, she met Sun Lijuan at the market and didn��t know if she went to cause trouble for Sun Chan. But seeing Sun Chan��s normal demeanor and hearing nothing about it, she guessed it must havee to nothing.

    Plus, since her husband��s position didn��t surpass Gu Junming, he had to study for a year in separation, with all sorts of resentments and grievances adding up. Bai Fann��s feelings toward Sun Chan had already be twisted.

    Sun Chan turned a deaf ear as if she didn��t hear anything.

    Bai Fann wasn��t angry either, standing there talking with Father Yang, simply not leaving.

    Father Yang thinking that since they intended to take Gu Junming down, they might as well let the Bai Family spread the news, so he let her stay.

    Before long, two cars drove up. Coincidentally, Sun Chan��s neighbor brought Gu Junming and his superior along. The female neighbor was full of regret, concerned about what to do now. She had offended someone with her fast talking. But with the army dispatching people, she didn��t dare not go. Determined, she thought since what she said was true, it wasn��t that big of a deal. So she came over.

    Gu Junming looked serious; having already learned about the situation on the way, he directly took Sun Chan��s hand upon seeing her.

    "Are you alright?"

    Sun Chan shook her head, "I��m okay."

    Bai Fann had already asked the driver about the situation and came over with a smile.

    "Sun Chan, I need to say something about what you did. We are both military spouses, how could you have an affair with someone else behind Gu Junming��s back? And Gu Junming, you too. Before marriage, you lived with her? She only turned eighteen after the New Year, so doesn��t this mean when you were together, she was still underage? This isn��t a minor issue!"

    She spoke mercilessly, both for revenge and seeing Commander Yang wanted to deal with this person, she wanted to help out too.

    Seeing Bai Fann��s aggressive demeanor, Gu Junming smirked coldly, "This is none of your business."

    "I��m also a military spouse. How could I not care? Commander Yang, this matter must be dealt with! Sun Chan was always causing trouble, and now there are moral issues too. It really is disappointing. We absolutely can��t have such a typical example among our military spouses!" Bai Fann said sternly.

    Sun Chan looked at Bai Fann, sighing internally. Before they married, she seemed normal. Howe she became like this after getting married? Could it be marital life isn��t happy?

    In fact, Bai Fann simply hated the two of them, wanting to see them suffer.

    Father Yang gave a look to the driver, who immediately understood and nudged the neighbor, "Speak up!" The neighbor was incredibly nervous and quickly said with her head down, "I��m telling the truth. I often saw mening in and out of her yard, and this person also lives here..."

    She recounted what happened without much exaggeration, but the way it sounded still made Sun Chan seem like a bad person always flirting with men.

    She didn��t dare look Sun Chan straight in the eye, just because Sun Chan didn��t give her fruit, so she said bad things about her.

    Sun Chan gave her a cold nce, thinking to herself that this matter couldn��t just end like this. Unless she retaliated properly, they would really think she had no temper and let them bully her at will!

    Bai Fann thought to herself, It figures! I always felt this woman was shameless, and she turned out to be more despicable than I imagined! Couldn��t figure out why he didn��t choose me and instead chose such a woman, what on earth was he thinking?

    Sun Chan bit her lip and remained silent, her eyes on Gu Junming.

    Gu Junming nodded to her; he believed in her.

    After a silence, Sun Chan didn��t behave as Bai Fann imagined by making a scene or bursting into tears, but quietly stood there, leaving people at a loss.

    Father Yang said, "Just now, you were meeting privately with a man here, and we all saw it. You two were very close."

    Sun Chan said indifferently, "I didn��t do anything."

    "It��se to this, and you��re still like this. I see you��re really beyond saving!" Bai Fann shook her head, helpless.

    Father Yang decided it was unnecessary to say more. He nced at the leader behind Gu Junming, whose face was dark. Didn��t he know who Gu Junming was? Yet you, unrted to this unit, pulled me over during this busy time to deal with rumors spread by gossips!

    Seeing the person didn��t speak, knowing he intended to cover up, Father Yang said, "Gu Junming, do you acknowledge your wrongdoing now?"

    Gu Junming replied, "I��m not wrong."

    "Don��t be stubborn! As long as you admit your mistake, this matter will be let go. Otherwise, your superior is here, and resolving this won��t be easy at all."

    "I��ll say it again. I��m not wrong. Although Sun Chan and I are in the same house, we haven��t done anything, and Sun Chan has never been that kind of person. You don��t need to nder her."

    Sun Chan also said, "I didn��t do anything, and you can��t just insult a person��s character out of nowhere!"

    "Even now, you won��t confess?" Yang Yun said sharply, "We have both witnesses and evidence! You say you didn��t flirt with a man, then who is this?"

    She pushed Gu Juntao forward. Gu Juntao helplessly raised his hands, smiling and nodding at his brother.

    "No choice, big brother, I��m innocent."

    Gu Junming frowned and asked, "What��s this about?"

    "They all say I��m having an affair with her. What do you think?!"

    Bai Fann was originally very pleased but grew pale upon hearing this voice.

 Chapter 197: Escalation of the Situation

    <h4>Chapter 197: Chapter 197: Esction of the Situation</h4>

    Bai Fann used to visit the Gu Family often, isn��t that Gu Juntao��s voice! Could he actually be the one Sun Chan was supposedly involved with! Besides, she knew about Gu Juntao and Yang Hongying.

    These two are so in love, Gu Juntao even broke ties with his mother for this widow, retired from the army to marry her, how could he possibly be with Sun Chan, and Gu Juntao and Sun Chan don��t even know each other, hardly have a chance to meet, how could there be anything!

    Bai Fann��s face turned pale instantly, sensing that this was a misunderstanding.

    She looked at Sun Chan, who was staring coldly at her, seemingly with a hint of mockery in her eyes. Yes, she had just said so many unpleasant things, now realizing it��s a misunderstanding, how shameful it must be!

    But now, she could only stand there boldly, thinking it��s not her who exposed them anyway, even if she said unpleasant things, what could they do to her.

    She held her neck defiantly, looking provocatively at Sun Chan, just a country girl, what does it matter if I insult you?

    Yang Yun frowned and said, "What does this mean? Are they brothers?"

    "Yes. He��s my real brother." Gu Juntao walked over to Gu Junming: "I don��t know what these people are trying to do. It seems they��re looking for trouble."

    Gu Junming nodded: "Maybe they��re bored with their good days, always trying to stir up trouble."

    He hadn��t felt close to this brother from the start, not growing up together, plus he��s Wang Guihua��s son, didn��t like him one bit, but since Gu Juntao��s marriage, their rtionship improved quite a bit, he felt his brother matured.

    Gu Juntao nodded, thinking to himself, this Bai Fann used to seem fine, but now she seems like a troublemaker.

    Yang Yun waspletely unaware, instead feeling he could manipte Sun Chan more: "Since they��re brothers, the things they��ve done are even more disgusting! Sun Chan, how could you do this to anyone?"

    Gu Juntaoughed: "What did Sun Chan do for you to insult her like this? So venomous at such a young age, you��d better be careful not to go unmarried for life!"

    "What��s it to you how I am? You still have the gall tough!" Yang Yun said coldly: "Ask Sun Chan��s neighbors, what have you all been up to!"

    The neighbor trembled slightly, lowering their head even more.

    Sun Chan said calmly: "What are you trying to find out by asking others what we��re doing? Gu Juntao and I haven��t done anything. We walk upright with clear conscience. We��re not people you can insult at will!"

    "Dad, look at how stubborn she is, even when facing her doom! Arrest them!"

    Bai Fannughed: "Sun Chan, I advise you not to be so stubborn. If something truly happens, you��ll be unlucky. It��s fine if Sun Chan doesn��t have a job, but Gu Juntao holds a public office, if this blows up, it��s bad for everyone, so I think you should just confess, don��t drag both brothers down because of you."

    Sun Chan said nothing.

    "Dad, arrest them and let them all go to jail!" Yang Yun became excited, hadn��t expected things to escte like this, now hearing this woman��s words, it��s a big crime! Best if they both end up in jail!

    Gu Junming frowned: "Why are you so vicious at such a young age?"

    "You do wrong, you deserve punishment! Dad, why are you still standing there, arrest them!"

    Father Yang looked towards Gu Junming: "You still have time to admit your mistake now. Don��t let it blow up, it��s bad for everyone. Your fianc��e has had affairs with several men and has close ties with your brother, isn��t that bad?"

    "I did nothing wrong. My fianc��e is being framed." Gu Junming��s eyes coldly swept across their faces: "Engaging in illicit rtionships requires punishment, fabricating false charges also requires punishment."

    "Fine, since you��re unrepentant, we��ll take you away."

    Bai Fann nced at Sun Chan: "You still won��t confess? If you don��t clear things up with Gu Junming, you��ll embarrass him too!"

    Sun Chan said: "Why should I confess to things I haven��t done? You��re all trying to smear me, what��s your motive? Just because you��re in charge, does that mean you can distort the truth?" Her final words were directed at Father Yang, her voice wasn��t loud, but she spoke clearly: "I will pursue this matter to the end!"

    Yang Yun said: "Hmph, a slut, dare to be so arrogant, disgusting!"

    Sun Chan was furious, she��d endured long enough,st time this woman caused trouble, now she��s resorting to personal insults, even trying to wish her dead? Just because of the car incidentst time?

    Without thinking, she pped her directly. Yang Yun never dreamed she��d be hit, her half face swelled immediately, ears buzzing, steps stumbled, then sat down on the ground.

    She was stunned by the p, took a moment to react, screaming: "Dad! Look at this woman..."

    "What about me?" Sun Chan red at her: "You insult me, I won��t be polite!"

    Father Yang frowned slightly, momentarily unable toprehend. This young girl seemed veryposed, could she really be innocent?

    Yang Yun was furious, Bai Fann quickly helped Yang Yun up, secretly delighted, you offended Yang Yun, still think it��ll be fine? I��m going to push things further, make you enemies, see what you��ll do! I��ll fan the mes!

    Bai Fann frowned: "Sun Chan, this is called flying into a rage out of shame, you know? You did something morally wrong, your actions were discovered, so you hit people? Did we say anything wrong? Isn��t Gu Juntao Gu Junming��s brother? You having close private interactions with him is your fault!"

    "Shut up!" Sun Chan turned and fiercely pped Bai Fann too: "You��ve continuously shamed and ndered me, not just her, I won��t let you off either! You��ve plotted against me many times, I thought you��d change after marriage, but you��re still the same, if I don��t do something, I��ll really be looked down on!"

    Bai Fann couldn��t believe she was hit! She was already pped once before, a lifelong humiliation, now even angrier, she charged to grab Sun Chan��s neck.

    "You dare hit me? With your status, can you even touch me?"

    But before she could approach Sun Chan, the brothers Gu Junming and Gu Juntao stopped her: "What are you doing?"

    "Dad, hurry and arrest them!" Yang Yun shouted loudly, pulling her father.

    Father Yang originally wanted to persuade his daughter to let it go, but seeing her face swollen, he wasn��t pleased either, how could this girl hit so hard! He never hit his daughter!

 Chapter 198: Going All Out

    <h4>Chapter 198: Chapter 198: Going All Out</h4>

    He said with a stern face, "Gu Junming, if there��s anything, let��s investigate it together. Whether your fianc��e is wronged or not, it needs to be investigated."

    "Investigate what! For such things, unless caught in the act, who would admit it? Even if it were true, they wouldn��t confess," Bai Fann sneered maliciously, "Besides, no man is likely to admit having anything to do with Sun Chan, right?"

    Gu Junming��s supervisor frowned, "Mr. Bai, your words are a bit over the line."

    "What��s wrong with me?" Bai Fann replied, "Sun Chan has impure motives, otherwise, she wouldn��t abandon her countryside fianc�� just to marry into a better family. What wouldn��t she do?"

    She used to have a bit of girlish modesty, but now that she��s married, she doesn��t fear gossip anymore.

    Sun Chan bit her lip and said, "Gu Junming, report it! I��ll sue everyone involved here!"

    Jun Tao said, "Brother, stay with sister-inw, I��ll go."

    The neighbor, who had been standing in the corner, shrank back anxiously. She started all of this! Afraid of whether Sun Chan really got involved with others, she was bound to get in trouble. Her husband always told her to keep her mouth shut, but now that such a big mess hase up, wouldn��t he kill her?

    She didn��t want to leave with everyone, turned, and was about to leave, but was stopped by someone.

    "Where are you going?" It was Father Yang��s driver, "You��re an important witness, you can��t leave!"

    "Let me go! I have things to do at home. My meal is steaming in the pot! I need to go back!"

    But no one let her go. Father Yang��s side wouldn��t allow her to leave.

    Sun Chan hadn��t intended to let her go either, "You can��t leave! Since it��s a problem you raised, we need to talk it through. Jun Tao, please call the leaders of these people again. I refuse to believe there��s no ce for justice in the world!"

    Jun Tao agreed and turned to leave.

    "Sun Chan, are you really not afraid?" the neighbor pretended to be brave, "If I don��t leave, your life is ruined."

    Sun Chan sneered coldly, "Don��t worry about me! You��d better not think you��re that important; my life is just fine! Previously, I was too weak and honest, letting you all bully me like this. Let��s see how this ys out!" She said as she red fiercely in Bai Fann��s direction.

    "Return to the unit." Father Yang said this and also didn��t look at her anymore, turning to get in the car.

    Sun Chan replied indifferently, "I��m not going to the unit; I��m going to the hospital."

    "What are you going to the hospital for?" he frowned.

    "Of course to get checked! Your daughter says I��m promiscuous, Bai Fann says I seduce men all over the ce. The only way to prove my innocence is myself! How can I, a perfectly innocent person, be humiliated by you?"

    In this life, reborn, she��s still a maiden, never having been with anyone, which is where her confidence lies.

    Bai Fann waspletely stunned; she never thought, not even in her dreams, that the Sun Chan she looked down on was actually so virtuous, still a virgin after being with Gu Junming for so long.

    Yang Yun was taken aback, then understood, "You... how shameless to say something like that!"

    Gu Junming held Sun Chan��s hand tight and said calmly, "She proves her innocence, yet you call her shameless? A single, unmarried girl like you, following my fianc��e home, listening to a neighbor��s instigation, and speaking such harsh words, who do you think you are?"

    "You��re simply..."

    "Alright, shut up!" Yang Yu stopped Yang Yun, pulling her aside by the wrist.

    "Since things havee to this point, why not make a small problem smaller, a small problem resolved?" Father Yang suppressed his inner irritation, trying to appear as calm as possible, "It was my daughter who listened to others�� rumors and spoke nonsense. I hope you can forgive her; she��s still young. Give her a chance. I will bring her to apologize to you personally another day."

    Gu Junming smiled, "Even at her youngest, she��s over twenty, right? Sun Chan is only eighteen. When you all were stepping on her so hard, you didn��t think about her future, did you? I will notpromise on this!"

    Sun Chan also said, "That��s right, this is a matter of principle. None of you can leave. I won��t let you nder me."

    Gu Junming��s supervisor had nothing to say. He was also very upset about the words spoken by those two women. If this issue blows up, Sun Chan��s life could be ruined, and Gu Junming and Jun Tao would be in trouble too. Gu Junming is just about to enter a new unit; isn��t this going to ruin his career? Moreover, he originally didn��t have a good impression of Father Yang to begin with.

    Father Yang frowned slightly, "Gu Junming, are you really giving no face at all?"

    Gu Junming stayed silent, tightly pressing his lips together, looking into the distance.

    "You want to arrest people, you arrest them; you want to release people, you release them? What do you take other people��s dignity and lives for? Just because of your high status, you think you can do whatever you want?" Sun Chan gave a cold smile at Father Yang.

    The atmosphere had stalemated. Jun Tao not only called the people from the police station but also Gu Junming��s supervisor, his own unit��s supervisor, and Bai Fann��s supervisor.

    "Since it��s a serious matter, of course everyone shoulde and see," Jun Tao smiled.

    Bai Fann was anxious, "I was just passing by; why are you involving my leader? I have nothing to do with this matter!"

    "Nothing? Without your insults, it wouldn��t have escted to this degree," Sun Chan looked at Yang Yun, "If you��re unlucky, remember, the most hateful one is Bai Fann."

    Yang Yun bit her lip tightly. She knew that she was bound to be in trouble. Sun Chan was determined to go for a check-up; it showed she was not afraid! She must still be a maiden.

    She turned back and said, "Dad! I��m innocent! I was deceived by that dreadful neighbor! You vile woman, you��ve harmed me!"

    She was once grateful to that neighbor; now she hated her just as much!

    "The woman spouts gossip, and you seize the opportunity to humiliate her, trying to ruin her entire life. Which of the two of you is more immoral?"

    Father Yang said, "Sun Chan, I think this matter..."

    "No discussion! I��m not just doing this for myself but also for those military wives. Just spreading rumors and humiliating others and then apologizing when it��s convenient is not enough?" Sun Chan stood her ground.

    The situation reached a point where they could only go to the hospital together.

    It was actually Bai Fann��s leader who designated the hospital; they were also troubled. Bai Fann��s medical skills weren��t great, and she wasn��t easy-going. How many quiet days had there been, and now all this trouble? They felt embarrassed toe out with her.

    Undergoing such an examination was originally a very shameful thing, but Sun Chan was all in now.

    "I can��t let these people seed."

    Gu Junming hugged Sun Chan and patted her shoulder, "I��m the one who dragged you into this. I��m really sorry."

 Chapter 199: Punishment Above

    <h4>Chapter 199: Chapter 199: Punishment Above</h4>

    Gu Junming certainly needs to apologize.

    "It��s alright, you don��t need to apologize." Sun Chan looked around. The doctor here was found by Gu Junming��s supervisor, very upright, definitely won��t bend the rules. She took a deep breath and then prepared to go inside.

    Gu Junming thought for a moment suddenly: "Otherwise, forget it. After all, things might be hard to exin, and I don��t want you to be discussed by others."

    Sun Chan shook her head and said: "I don��t care about that. I know these people want to use me to hit you, but that��s absolutely impossible. Although I can��t help you, I absolutely won��t drag you down in this matter. Trust me."

    "But you like this..."

    "I��m really fine, I��m going in first." Sun Chan patted the back of Gu Junming��s hand, smiled casually, and then turned and went inside.

    Yang Family father and daughter, Bai Fann, and that neighbor all remained silent. Although there was no expression visible, they were very tense. It seemed Sun Chan was really going to pursue this to the end. The female neighbor��s heart was about to jump out; she had no skills at all, this was going to be bad.

    The brothers of Gu Junming, their supervisor was firmly standing there with a serious face; nobody spoke. Anyway, this matter must have a conclusion, everyone was unhappy with how this had escted.

    It��s enough to target people, but going after them through male-female rtions is truly excessive.

    Yang Yun tugged at his father��s arm: "What should we do now, is this woman really okay? Why did she just go inside?"

    "Enough, shut up!" Father Yang was now thinking about how to suppress the situation. He originally wanted to teach Gu Junming a lesson, who knew it would escte to this! He wanted several times to speak to Sun Chan, but seeing her determined eyes, he ended up saying nothing. This girl��s surface was delicate, but she was actually too resolute, unyielding.

    Yang Yun suddenly said: "Hm, still don��t know if they��ll have some way to sweep this under the carpet, just a lowly woman."

    "Watch what you say!" Gu Junming said coldly: "Everyone��s dignity is equal, what right do you have to insult her like that!"

    "I just can��t stand you, what can you do..."

    "Yang Yun! Apologize immediately!" Father Yang waspletely furious. His daughter being rebellious usually was one thing, but now at such a critical moment, how could she offend people!

    Yang Yun, usually pampered by her father, was very unhappy being scolded like this: "Just an annoying woman, even if I hit or scolded her, so what, they keep targeting us without letting go? I won��t muddle through...!"

    Seeing that she waspletely unyielding, Father Yang could only cover her mouth to make her shut up and apologized to the supervisors.

    "Sorry, my daughter��s emotions are unstable, please don��t be upset."

    The supervisors waved their hands lightly: "No need to say more. Let��s see the result, whatever should happen will happen."

    He also felt regret, the Yang Family were war heroes, how had the third generation ended up with such demeanor!

    "Sun Chan!" Bai Fann couldn��t resist shouting toward the hospital room door: "Don��t be too excessive, such a minor matter, why are you being so aggressive? Stop worrying about this matter. You must want to ruin the Yang Family!"

    She originally relied on the Yang Family to take the lead, but who knew Yang Yun would be so foolish!

    The situation was bing uncontroble, and now she was truly afraid. Bai Fann��s supervisor had not said much, and her face was very unpleasant.

    She also worried about the oue, if Sun Chan was proven innocent, she herself would be reprimanded. She walked up to Gu Junming: "The Yang Family isn��t someone you can provoke easily. Think carefully."

    Gu Junming looked at her coldly: "Stop using others as an excuse. The things you said and did earlier, I have remembered and will never forget them!" He finished and walked to the side.

    Bai Fann was infuriated; a vige girl was only relying on Gu Junming to be so arrogant, and Gu Junming himself had beaten Wang Hu, now his spine was stiffening more every day?

    Just entering a new unit, but not any higher than Wang Hu, truly a prideful and rampant scoundrel! She kept ming Sun Chan and Gu Junming, never reflecting on how she initially provoked the matter.

    Sun Chan took off her clothes andy on the bed, two female doctors gently spoke to her, helping her rx.

    "Don��t worry, we won��t hurt you. If you are afraid, just close your eyes."

    Sun Chan said nothing, smiled, and closed her eyes. After ten minutes, the results were out, and Sun Chan walked out.

    Gu Junming quickly approached and grabbed her: "How did it go?"

    Sun Chan gave aposed smile: "It��s fine, all good."

    The physical examination results came out immediately, so both sides�� supervisors went to the next meeting room to resolve the issue. Naturally, the result was that Sun Chan was still only a girl, having had no intimate encounters, she remained the cleanest and purest maiden.

    After the result was announced, that female neighbor began crying, ashamed and afraid, she ran up to Sun Chan.

    "I was momentarily foolish and muddled, talking nonsense. Please forgive me, I didn��t mean to nder you originally, I just spoke casually. Who knew I��d be brought here; forgive me!" She continually cried.

    Gu Juntao said: "Such malicious behavior, why didn��t you think more before acting? Saying it was just casual talk, an apology won��t suffice. Do you realize your careless words could affect someone��s entire life? It��s people like you in society who don��t gain from badmouthing others, so make false usations behind their backs. This unhealthy trend must be curbed!"

    The woman cried, then looked towards Sun Chan: "Please, big sister, we��re neighbors, I really meant no harm, please forgive me. I won��t do it again."

    The woman cried miserably, tears and snot everywhere.

    In the past, with Sun Chan��s character, she would surely forgive her, but this time Sun Chan had hardened her heart, she would not forgive any of them! Not just this female neighbor, nobody present would be forgiven.

    "No, you must be punished. You��ve spread behind others�� backs not just once. Every time your husband told you off, you said you wouldn��t do it again, but have you ever listened? Don��t say anymore, it��s impossible." Sun Chan didn��t spare a nce at her.

    The woman was utterly terrified now, cursing Sun in her heart for being unreasonable, so stubborn! She hadn��t said much, now that it was confirmed Sun Chan was innocent, wasn��t that enough, she hadn��t lost anything!

    But seeing Gu Junming��s cold stare, she dared not say more, afraid of being hit. His gaze was too frightening.

 Chapter 200: Under Punishment

    <h4>Chapter 200: Chapter 200: Under Punishment</h4>

    The decision was made at the time, Father Yang didn��t investigate the facts and caused such a big issue, it was indeed very excessive, but he never said anything. Moreover, Father Yang only said that his daughter was tricked by that neighbor and just wanted to understand the situation, without intending to do anything excessive, coupled with Yang Xiong��s reputation, so as long as he wrote a written self-examination.

    And since Yang Yun didn��t hold a public office, she could only be criticized and educated, and that was that.

    But originally she was to be specially recruited into the army this March, and she was disqualified because of this incident. Her age already did not meet the conditions to be recruited, she was only given the opportunity due to the Yang family��s face, this time there was no way to forgive her.

    "Her behavior was too excessive, the army definitely cannot ept such a person. So let��s consider introducing her to another profession."

    Yang Yun mmed the table in anger and stood up, saying: "This is too much, I��m not allowed to enlist just because I said a couple of things, why! Just because of some vige girl who��s a nobody?"

    Father Yang also frowned and said: "That��s a person��s whole life. Are you really not going to give any chance? I know this matter was caused by me, but my daughter really didn��t mean anything else..."

    Gu Juntao sneered: "That��s not eptable, this time nothing happened because my sister-inw has a strong mentality, if it was an ordinary girl she wouldn��t withstand such an insult and would havemitted suicide a long time ago, what if someone lost their life, can you just apologize and be done with it? Besides, do you think this girl has any intention of apologizing? Arrogant and haughty, looking down on others, if she were in the army who knows how she��d bully those female soldiers without backgrounds?"

    "I also think so, even if she got in, she��d only ruin Mr. Yang��s reputation." Gu Junming added insult to injury.

    Why do we have to be humiliated by you, while you face no substantial punishment?

    However, since when did my brother be so articte, I really don��t know him anymore.

    Yang Yun screamed: "This is too much! You��re just holding a grudge and want to ruin me?!

    Gu Junming said indifferently: "What about you, when you were harming a person, when did you consider that you might ruin someone��s whole life too? Yang Yun, grow up a bit, how can someone like this enter the army?"

    Father Yang couldn��t speak anymore, he also knew his daughter didn��t have a clue and had lost face!

    "Utterly shameless..." Yang Yun opened her mouth to curse, but was finally pressed down on her shoulder by her father and made to sit there quietly; given the circumstances, they were the ones at fault, leaving a lesson was necessary.

    Moreover, he actually understood well inside, that this kind of punishment was already the best result, and in any case, Gu Junming had nothing to do with their army [department], if Gu Junming pursued the matter to the end, even his own public office wouldn��t be safe.

    This time, they lost both face and standing.

    The Yang family��s result was out, that is Bai Fann.

    Bai Fann bit her lip and said: "I was just passing by. Why am I being dealt with? I don��t ept this."

    "You don��t know what you did? If it wasn��t for you stirring up trouble, things wouldn��t have escted to this extent. As a doctor, a military doctor no less, your morals are corrupted, you repeatedly schemed against Sun Chan, shouldn��t you be punished?" Gu Junming��s gaze was icy.

    Bai Fann still wanted to say something, but her leader already red at her: "Enough, you don��t need to say anything extra. We��ve decided to transfer Bai Fann, first to logistics, dock two months�� sry, and have her write a deep self-examination."

    Bai Fann trembled all over, she was about to faint; transferred to logistics? After her many years studying medicine, and now she had to go to logistics...

    The leader nodded to Gu Junming and left directly. Bai Fann ran out.

    "Leader, why treat me like this? I protest, I really am just a bystander!"

    "This is already the best result, if you keep making trouble, you won��t even keep your job! Reflect properly!" The person couldn��t be bothered to say another word to Bai Fann. After speaking, he strode away; he had long been dissatisfied with her work attitude and character. Yet she kept making trouble, long ago had a conflict with Sun Chan, thinking I wouldn��t remember after the first time? Now you im to be a bystander! If not for Bai Chuan, she would have been fired long ago.

    You embarrass yourself and cause trouble, now you want me to be disgraced with you!

    Bai Fann was full of hatred, her chest heaving, Sun Chan, you are ruthless!

    She didn��t go back, but walked away briskly. Along the way, the mes of anger in her heart were burning fiercely, wishing she could tear Sun Chan apart!

    And the culprit of this matter, the female neighbor, for insulting others�� character and ndering soldiers, was detained for half a month. The female neighbor immediately sat on the ground and screamed: "I��m wronged! I was just speaking casually, why arrest me, I don��t want to! Please save me, I don��t want to go to jail!"

    She rushed over to grab Sun Chan��s leg, but Sun Chan stood up and dodged to the side, not letting her touch her.

    The female neighbor was grabbed, the police officers who came with them before were there, they pulled her up and put handcuffs on her wrists.

    The female neighbor finally cried out in anger: "Su Chan, you set me up, you��re not going to die well! I will definitely get revenge on you, just you wait and see!"

    "Keep talking and you��ll be locked up for another half month!" a staff member shouted.

    The female neighbor shivered, not daring to speak further, and was dragged out.

    During the entire process, Sun Chan seemed as if she hadn��t heard anything, her eyes calm, watching her be taken away. Half a month was enough time for the woman to reflect.

    All the leaders left, and Gu Juntao said something before going back as well.

    Father Yang and Yang Yun sat opposite Sun Chan, Yang Yun��s eyes red, filled with hatred!

    But Sun Chan calmly said: "Let��s leave it at this, I will return now. If anyone continues to target me in the future, I won��t hold back."

    "I��ll see you off." Gu Junming took her hand and walked away.

    Yang Yun finally cried: "Dad! Why, didn��t you say I could join the artillery regiment as an art soldier? You said you��d let me attend military school within three years, let me join the party, at the very least get a deputy regimental level position? Now I can��t get in, what should I do!"

    Father Yang sighed: "It��s already like this, stop thinking about it, find another job. With my connections, it��s not hard to get you a position in a department, just wait. But remember, don��t cause trouble in the future!"

    "Why! Grandpa is a general, you��re an official, my entering the army was a sure thing..." She was about to cry, it was too hateful. From the first meeting, she and those two people were at odds!

 Chapter 201: Bai Fanglan’s Fury

    <h4>Chapter 201: Chapter 201: Bai Fann��s Fury</h4>

    "Causing such a mess, and you still want to get in? This opportunity was hard toe by, with so many people eyeing it. Now if you force your way in, as soon as you sign up, these people��sint letters will flood in! Your father isn��t capable; if you dare, go talk to your grandfather!" Father Yang pped the table and left, fuming.

    On one hand, he was disappointed in his daughter, and on the other, he felt Gu Junming was too much, showing no leniency at all!

    He was a member of the Yang Family; since when had he ever been humiliated like this? After this incident, the grudge between him and Gu Junming was surely set.

    Sun Chan wasn��t feeling well either, after all, she had been falsely used and had to undergo a physical examination to prove her innocence.

    "I was wrong." Sun Chan stopped a few steps away and looked at Gu Junming.

    "What do you mean?"

    "I shouldn��t have agreed to live together. I thought we were boyfriend and girlfriend, and we��d get married sooner orter, so it wasn��t a big deal. As long as we were careful, it would be fine, but I didn��t expect it to impact you so much."

    Gu Junming patted her shoulder, "What are you thinking? We��re in the right, what is there to fear."

    "But so many people are watching you. I think we should be more careful. I��m sorry."

    "Oh you, I never med you. Besides, I should have foreseen this; I��m a man and older than you, but I never thought it would be used against us like this." Gu Junmingughed at himself, "I really am quite the target."

    Sun Chan chuckled, "I read a saying in a textbook, ��The tallest tree in the forest is destroyed by the wind��, you��re an outstanding person, so it��s normal for many people to focus on you."

    Gu Junming held her hand, "You still feel like talking about this? I��m really worried about the neighbors bearing a grudge against you."

    "Hmm." Sun Chan frowned slightly, "I don��t want to be involved with that woman. Help me find a ce to stay, I want to move. If I don��t live there, things will naturally quiet down."

    Gu Junming agreed, feeling a bit of regret inside. The young girl was too young; if she were twenty, they could get married directly, and after applying, Sun Chan could join him in the military, but it��s not possible right now. Still two more years to go.

    Sun Chan saw his expression and knew what he was thinking, said with a smile, "I also want to grow up quickly, but days pass one by one. Don��t worry, okay? I��ll do my best to develop myself in these two years."

    "Okay." Gu Junming pinched her nose, "Let��s go. Let��s eat."

    Since Sun Chan and Gu Junming first met over wontons, they immediately sought a wonton shop when they went out, sharing a good understanding.

    Each had a big bowl of chicken soup wontons, which tasted great and dispelled their bad mood.

    However, Bai Fann wasn��t feeling any better. Wang Hu had already left, so she returned to her parents�� home, where she found her grandfather reading a newspaper. Feeling agitated, she sat on the sofa, unwilling to speak.

    Bai Chuan nced at her, "What��s wrong? What happened?"

    "Nothing. Don��t ask."

    "Did you have a fight with Wang Hu?"

    Bai Fann was even more annoyed, "He��s gone to Beijing; I wish I could fight with him, but can I even manage that? I don��t get it; whether I��m married or not, what��s the difference? Anyway, everyone minds their own business; no one cares about me!"

    Bai Chuan asked, "What happened?" with a slight frown, "Did something go wrong? Is someone bullying you?"

    "It��s that damned Gu Junming and Sun Chan!" Bai Fann angrily recounted the events, avoiding mentioning how harshly she spoke or how she humiliated Sun Chan. Instead, she downyed it, exining how unreasonable Sun Chan and Gu Junming were, then frowned, "I was just a passerby; when did I get dragged into this? I think she just dislikes me and took the chance to get back at me!"

    Bai Chuan frowned in silence, thinking to himself that Gu Junming was taking the chance to avengest time��s issue. I sent a widow to hold him back, and this is how he retaliates? Quite ruthless!

    These people always me others, never considering how they hurt others.

    Bai Chuan asked, "So you got transferred?"

    "Yes!"

    "Hmm, Gu Junming and Sun Chan are a bit too arrogant, thinking I��m too old to deal with them?" Bai Chuan chuckled coldly, "It��s a pity, though I��m old now, mywork isn��t useless yet. I��ll remember this and won��t let them stay this arrogant."

    Bai Fann stood up angrily, "I can��t stand it! I graduated from military medical university, and they want to stick me in logistics? They��re trying to bury me alive! I absolutely refuse! Grandpa, help me! I can��t ept this!"

    Bai Chuan massaged his temples, thinking he must intervene since it��s Gu Junming��s revenge. Besides, with his skills and his granddaughter��s qualifications, finding a job won��t be hard, so he said, "Alright. Take a leave first, don��t go anymore, I��ll help you contact a hospital."

    Bai Fann reluctantly agreed atst. If she were forced into logistics, she��d be drowned in people��s spit! She stormed upstairs in anger.

    Just then, Wang Hu called, and when Bai Fann answered, she felt wronged, "Why are you never here? Why, whenever there��s something, you��re never by my side when I need you!"

    "I��m sorry, you know I��m a soldier. What happened?" Wang Hu, feeling a bit guilty, spoke softly. They hadn��t been married long, but it seemed it was always cold wars or separation, so he felt apologetic.

    Bai Fann, feeling aggrieved, exined everything again.

    She thought Wang Hu would help her like her grandfather, but to her surprise, Wang Hu remained silent.

    "What��s wrong? Why aren��t you saying anything?"

    "I think you��re in the wrong here."

    "What did you say?" Bai Fann felt her ears deceived her, "You actually think it��s my fault!"

    "Exactly, this matter is your fault. If you im to be just a bystander, Sun Chan certainly wouldn��t say anything about you. Knowing things weren��t right, you should have left and not gotten involved, but you stayed throughout, even when they said they would examine to prove their innocence, and you stayed? You should apologize, and your leadership��s decision regarding you was appropriate. Such issues of personal conduct are serious, and one careless move could affect Gu Junming��s career."

    Bai Fann shouted angrily, "Are you speaking like a human? You��re my husband, but you��re taking someone else��s side? Are you really na?ve, or are you deliberately trying to provoke me?"

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 202: Miscarriage

    <h4>Chapter 202: Chapter 202: Miscarriage</h4>

    Wang Hu never expected his high-educated, high-born wife to say something like that, and froze for a moment.

    Bai Fann was still shouting, "You just fancy Sun Chan. Do you think I don��t know? Before we got married, you were already involved with her. Do you think I��m blind? Sun Chan is just a fox spirit. Otherwise, how could shee from the same vige and make you infatuated like this?"

    "Bai Fann, please watch your words! You��re someone with quality, how can you talk like this? When did I ever... Anyway, don��t unjustly use me, I��m just speaking the truth!" Wang Hu said solemnly.

    This woman is really insulting. When did he ever have such filthy thoughts? He can��t even bring himself to say the word "involved".

    "I always deal with problems realistically. You were dissatisfied with Sun Chan from the start, that was clearly your fault. And now you��re trying to make trouble without reason?"

    "Heh." Bai Fann, having been angry the whole day, thought of the gaze between Sun Chan and Gu Junming, and now hearing her husband helping as well, coupled with grandpa��s attitude, she felt marriage and her husband were nothing; family is still the most important.

    She said, "That��s enough, Wang Hu. Let��s break up. When you��re done with your tasks,e back once. We��ll handle the divorce papers. I can��t be morally admirable like you. I��m just a narrow-minded schemer. Where is Sun Chan��s high awareness? But let me remind you, Sun Chan is now focused on Gu Junming, so pestering is useless."

    "You��re too much!" Wang Hu��s face turned ck, "I can see you��re not in a good mood. I��ll call youter."

    "Divorce! I must divorce you..."

    Before she finished speaking, the other party hung up the call. Bai Fann was furious, mming down the phone heavily, then she copsed on the bed and cried bitterly. Thinking of Wang Hu��s dullness and indifference brought sharp pains to her heart. This personpletely doesn��t care about me; I must divorce. I have to divorce!

    Wang Hu felt ufortable after hanging up the phone. Bai Fann truly has problematic thoughts. He can tolerate her bad temper, not doing chores, not liking to associate with his parents, but doing such excessive things without a trace of shame? Isn��t it a bit too much?

    Nevertheless, Wang Hu never thought of divorcing her. He only thought maybe he should find a way to talk with her properly since divorce was umon back then.

    He walked a few steps when a girl in military uniform approached and smiled, "What are you doing, Wang?"

    Wang Hu was startled, then said, "Why are you here?"

    "I also need to make a call. Wang seems in a bad mood. Is there something wrong?" She was his ssmate, youngest in the ss, yet a bright student from a good family.

    Wang Hu grunted, "Nothing, you go ahead and call." He turned around and walked away.

    The young girl shrugged and went inside to make a call. She had a good impression of Wang Hu. It could be said she fell in love at first sight, but Wang Hu was always insensitive to such things, unaware of her intentions.

    Bai Fann hung up at her end, cried on the bed for half a day, hating and cursing, her mind in turmoil, half a dayter she fell asleep in a haze.

    In the middle of the night, she suddenly suffered unbearable abdominal pain, struggling to sit up, then felt a sticky heat beneath her, a buzz sounded in her head. She turned on the bedsidemp and saw the bloodstains underneath. This wasn��t her period, it must be...

    Bai Fann screamed in terror.

    She was rushed to the hospital overnight, and it was just as she had thought, a miscarriage. She was actually pregnant, under two months, and now it was gone.

    Bai Chuan sat on the chair outside, sighing deeply; truly a sin! What kind of family is the Wang Family? How much they anticipated the arrival of this child, and now Bai Fann ruined it. How could they not be angry?

    When Wang��s parents arrived, Bai Chuan hurried to greet them.

    Seeing Bai Fann lying on the bed with a pale face, the anger and fury in their hearts were indescribable. Such a good child, gone just like that!

    Moreover, if it was due to physical reasons or an ident, that��s one thing; yet their son had called before saying Bai Fann caused trouble again and was transferred by her unit. They hade tofort and check on her, to help her adjust her mindset. Now look.

    Bai Chuan said, "Such a thing happened, it��s all our fault, dear inws, don��t be angry."

    Father Wang waved his hand, "It��s fate, can��t me anybody."

    Mrs. Wang��s face was unpleasant, but she forced herself to say, "Don��t overthink it, you��re still young, you will have children in the future."

    Bai Fann bit her lip and cried, "It��s all Wang Hu��s fault! If he hadn��t bullied me like this, how could such a thing happen? My child was killed by Wang Hu!" She really wanted to have a child, waited so long, finally conceived, yet it ended like this.

    Father Wang and Mrs. Wang instantly looked grim, and Bai Chuan hurried to say, "What nonsense are you talking, child! Wang Hu��s fault? You caused an uproar yourself, do you see any couples that don��t have conflicts? Is it necessary to lose the child every time there��s a quarrel? You caused amotion all day, how can you me Wang Hu, what did he say!"

    "I don��t care! Anyway, everything is Wang Hu��s fault, I will never forgive him! Have Wang Hue back, I want a divorce." She cried and turned away, not looking at her inws.

    These two were already furious beyond belief, and seeing their daughter-inw so unreasonable, didn��t know what else to say.

    Mrs. Wang was about to explode, but was stopped by Father Wang, "Enough, losing the child, of course, she��s sad, mood is bad, don��t say anymore. We��ll visit another day."

    Bai Chuan could only watch them leave, on the way the two men said a few words, but Mrs. Wang said nothing. After walking out, she sighed.

    "What is this? Why are we so unlucky, so sinful, to have such a daughter-inw! I can��t take it, since she wants to divorce, let Wang Hue back, discuss it and handle it."

    "Nonsense!" Father Wang said, "How can that be? Stop making a scene, you��re not a child anymore. Is divorce that easy?"

    "But you see..."

    "Wait and see, now everyone is in a bad mood, don��t bother. Let Wang Hu handle it himself."

    Bai Fanny on the hospital bed, scolded by grandpa for being irresponsible, but she acted as if she hadn��t heard. Her heart was filled with hatred, ming Sun Chan, Gu Junming, and Wang Hu, no good person among them, just her misfortune.

    She clenched her fist, cursed Sun Chan, the real culprit of everything, involved with Gu Junming and still want to involve Wang Hu? Even got me fired! I must get revenge!

 Chapter 203 Preparing to Move

    <h4>Chapter 203: Chapter 203 Preparing to Move</h4>

    Father Wang and Mrs. Wang returned home and called Wang Hu to tell him about Bai Fann��s miscarriage.

    "I see, I��ll find some time to talk to her." Wang Hu��s voice was very calm, but inside he was a turmoil of emotions. This was his first child, and Bai Fann lost it. He was already very upset, and after hearing Mrs. Wang��s words, his feelings became even moreplicated.

    Bai Fann is really disappointing!

    But he could onlyfort his parents a bit, didn��t express his opinions about Bai Fann, and went on with his own business.

    Several times he wanted to call Bai Fann, but thinking about what she had done made him feel disappointed. On top of that, he was in a bad mood and worried they might end up arguing directly, so he didn��t contact his wife.

    Bai Fann stayed in the hospital for a few days and then went home to recover. She didn��t contact Wang Hu either.

    She felt very wronged, recovering by herself, injured physically, and not a single visit from her inws or a phone call from her husband, which made her feel even more aggrieved, and so they began a cold war.

    Bai Chuan advised her once: "If you want to me someone, me Gu Junming and Sun Chan. The Wang Family haven��t wronged you. What are you doing this for? Last time in the hospital room, you behaved very inappropriately towards them. They are your elders, why did you throw a tantrum with them? Do you really not want this marriage anymore?"

    Bai Fann replied: "Grandpa, if you really care about me, please don��t pressure me. I don��t want to make a call for now. I want to see just how heartless Wang Hu can be!"

    She turned over and went to sleep.

    Bai Chuan had no choice but to secretly call Father Wang and Mrs. Wang to apologize on behalf of his granddaughter. No matter what, they couldn��t offend the Wang Family. He simply said that his granddaughter was emotionally traumatized and talking nonsense.

    "Once she��s better, she��lle home."

    The Wang Family was very cultured and didn��t say much, but they weren��t very warm either and didn��t evene to visit.

    Bai Chuan was very angry, but seeing his already haggard granddaughter, he couldn��t say anything and had to endure it.

    Sun Chan and Gu Juntao returned home that day and first spoke to a man from a neighboring household. The man didn��t know what had happened at first and greeted them with augh: "You��re here! The young man is looking quite energetic!"

    Gu Junming said, "Sorry, brother, your wife has had some trouble. I need to inform you she won��t being back for now. It��s rted to us."

    "Ah? What happened?" The neighbor was taken aback, his heart racing. Was there a fight?

    Gu Junming exined the situation to him: "That��s it, the leaders from the unit and the police station decided to detain her for half a month."

    The man��s emotions were mixed; he was angry and ashamed, but more than anything, he was furious with his wife! What a disgraceful act; he had long warned her not to speak carelessly, and now it finally backfired!

    He scratched his head, "This troublemaking woman, always talking nonsense! Serves her right!"

    Sun Chan said, "I��m really sorry too. She apologized, and I could have forgiven her to let her out sooner, but I can��t forgive her, so she needs to face punishment to prevent reckless talk in the future."

    "No need to apologize, youngdy. I understand. This is my wife��s fault. She��s always been like this! I knew trouble woulde eventually. Let them detain her; at least this might teach her a lesson! Well, I have things to do, so I��ll be going." With that, he nodded to them and mmed the door behind him.

    Gu Junming and Sun Chan exchanged a look and said nothing, regardless of what the man was actually thinking inside. But he was certainly more sensible than his troublemaking wife.

    Sun Chan asked, "What should we do now?"

    Gu Junming thought for a moment and said, "Let��s pack up our stuff. I��ll find us a ce, and when everything��s ready, we can move out. This time we��ll find an apartment, so you won��t have to keep using the stove anymore."

    "Sounds good."

    The two went inside and packed up clothes, books, and some fruits into boxes. Since they were looking for an apartment, they didn��t need to take coal, which made things easier.

    Sun Chan was worried about the money: "I don��t earn a lot, so I��m worried about affording it."

    "Don��t worry, I��m here. Let��s not rent a small house. It��s in a remote area. If youe homete, I won��t feel safe, and if the neighbors aren��t easy to get along with, it��ll be troublesome." Gu Junming made the decision, not letting her object.

    Sun Chan agreed but didn��t want Gu Junming to pay all by himself since she had some savings too.

    Everything else was fine, but the iron wires and the metal pieces collected in the yard were a bit troublesome. Sun Chan decided to sell them.

    "I��ve noticed there��s an old man outside whoes to collect junk every afternoon. I��ll sell the iron to him."

    Gu Junming said, "If you wait for the recycling people toe by, we can take the stuff to them ourselves and make an extra two cents. Just wait a moment!" After saying this, he went out and came backter with a cart. The two of them painstakingly loaded the iron wires and metal pieces onto it, then together pushed it to the recycling center. On the way, Sun Chan even picked up some ss bottles and cardboard to throw onto the cart.

    Gu Junming said, "Is that necessary? We��re not relying on this to make a living."

    Sun Chan waved her hand, "It��s fine. You know, these bottles go for ten cents each, and the cardboard is forty cents a pound. It doesn��t add up to much, but all together, it��s still quite profitable." Sheughed as she spoke, tossing two more pieces of cardboard from the ground into the cart.

    Gu Junming said, "I never imagined my wife being such a money-lover."

    "Of course! You know I can only make one or two cents profit per pound of fruit sold, sometimes even lose money. But the bottles are all profit." Sun Chanughed, not caring about the looks from the passersby.

    Gu Junming thought to himself how hard it was for Sun Chan to earn money, saving pennies at a time. He resolved to treat her well.

    The two of them pushed the cart together, walking for almost half an hour before reaching the recycling center. The scrap iron weighed eighty-nine pounds, going for one yuan and twenty-five cents per pound, which sold for a total of one hundred and twenty yuan.

    The price wasn��t the best, but since Sun Chan wanted to sell quickly, they had no choice but to take a loss. The bottles and cardboard sold for a total of two yuan and fifty cents, which was a bit less than she expected but still not bad.

    Gu Junming thought it wasn��t too little: "This amount is more than a regr worker��s monthly sry."

    Sun Chan said, "The boxes and stic wrap from my fruit stall can also be sold. I��ll sell them too, and then buy you some ribs."

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 204: The Atmosphere Is Very Good

    <h4>Chapter 204: Chapter 204: The Atmosphere Is Very Good</h4>

    Gu Junmingughed, "That good?"

    "Of course, I��ve been thinking about buying something tasty to give you a proper treat. Even though you have meat in the army, it doesn��t mean you get to eat well." Sun Chan smiled as she tidied up the money.

    On their way back, Sun Chan indeed bought ribs, some chicken, and also some vermicelli and pickled cabbage, spending a total of 50 yuan. Anyway, the weather is cold now, so there��s no worry about it going bad.

    Sun Chan made stewed ribs with radishes and pickled cabbage, steamed rice, and also fried a few eggs. Additionally, Gu Junming made a dish of candied sweet potatoes. He wasn��t particrly good at cooking, but this dish was something his foster father excelled at and had taught him since he was young.

    So many good dishes, it was quite a treat.

    Gu Junming set aside some of the dishes, intending to give them to Guihua and Yang Liu.

    Sheughed, "We should let your brothere and eat with us."

    "Yeah, I forgot if you hadn��t mentioned it! Let��s pack some in a lunchbox, and I��ll take it to my brother. He loves meat."

    "Sure." Sun Chan took out the lunchbox swiftly.

    Once everything was set, the two sat by the table to have dinner together.

    Gu Junming said, "I��m going to be busy starting tomorrow, so I can��t be with you every day. If you need anything, remember to call me. Once I find a ce, I��ll let you know. I��lle over on moving day."

    Sun Chan nodded, "I got it. After the meal, you should leave, right? It��s hard to travel if it gets toote."

    Gu Junming was stunned, then smiled and said, "You��re worried about people gossiping if I stay, huh. Don��t worry, I won��t cause you any trouble."

    Sun Chan blushed, feeling a bit embarrassed, and said, "I just don��t want such things to happen again. Please don��t be mad, okay?"

    Gu Junming held her hand, "Don��t worry, I��m not mad. I don��t want any disturbances either. I didn��t consider it properly before, and that tarnished your reputation. I��ll be more careful in the future."

    "I��m sorry," she said softly.

    Gu Junming pulled her into his arms, "Silly, why apologize? Shouldn��t I be the one to apologize?"

    Neither of them spoke, quietly embracing for a long while. They both felt fulfilled and warm inside. After this incident, their rtionship was even more solid.

    Gu Junming delivered the food to Gu Juntao��s house. The couple was still upset about the day��s events.

    Yang Hongying wasn��t upset about him meddling, as it was right to help his brother. But he didn��t go to work because of it today, resulting in half a month��s bonus being deducted.

    Yang Hongying was upset and tapped his back, "You saw the manager and didn��t ask for leave? Couldn��t you have just told them and avoided the deduction? That��s a lot of money! Enough to buy 20 jin of fish!"

    "I forgot, didn��t I? I��ll talk to the managerter."

    "Wasn��t today a reporting day? Is it still possible to say it now?" Yang Hongying said while washing the dishes, "With that much less in sry, you better not think about eating meat in the second half of the month, though we didn��tck for it during New Year. We��ll just have to live frugally."

    Gu Juntao frowned, "I forgot, it��s tough for you, my wife. Sharing the hardship with me."

    Yang Hongyingughed, "I don��t mind; just make sure you learn from this, so you don��t repeat such careless mistakes. Starting tomorrow, we��ll eat cabbage. We still have some pickled vegetables, that��ll do."

    Gu Juntao sighed, cabbage is fine. When supporting the disaster areas, it was cabbage every day, and nothing happened.

    Thinking of himself before marriage, Wang Guihua wouldn��t let him eat cabbage and potatoes, there was always plenty of fish and meat, which resulted in his build; he��s lost some weight since getting married. It��s a good thing, perhaps.

    Watching Yang Hongying diligently doing household chores, Gu Juntao felt moved.

    What a good woman. Why doesn��t my mom like her? Would it be better if there was a child? He hugged her from behind, wanting to make a baby while there is still time.

    Yang Hongying was flustered, finding him annoying, "What are you doing? I��m busy. Go on, back off for now."

    "Wife, I miss you."

    "Seeing each other every day, what��s there to miss?"

    Gu Juntao said, "I��ll help with the chorester,e over, let��s talk. Come on!"

    Yang Hongying was anxious and angry while fooling around with him, then someone knocked on the door, prompting her to push Gu Juntao��s shoulder.

    "Go see who it is, all you know is fooling around." She tidied her hair.

    Gu Juntao went over, originally feeling annoyed, but when he saw it was his brother, he immediately smiled, "Brother, what brings you here?"

    "This is for you." Gu Junming handed over the lunchbox.

    "Come in, brother! Hongying, my brother��s here!" He opened the box and saw so many ribs, grinning widely. He��s just been saying there��s nothing good to eat, then big brother came to the rescue, wasn��t this a sign from above?

    "No need, it��ste. I��ll head back to the army." Gu Junming said, "I��ll help you with moving in a few days. Will you be free?"

    "No problem! I��ll be there."

    "Then I��ll head out. Say hi to your wife." Gu Junming turned and left.

    Although Yang Hongying came out in a hurry, she still didn��t see her big brother, thinking to herself, this guy is in quite a rush.

    Gu Juntao gave the lunchbox to his wife and exined what happened.

    She smiled and said, "Helping is fine, just remember to ask for leave!"

    "Got it. It��s my mistake." Gu Juntaoughed, "My brother sent something delicious, we��ll have meat tomorrow. We��re so lucky."

    "Good. Congrattions." Yang Hongying smiled warmly and went inside. She was a gentle woman, never losing her temper.

    Gu Juntao said with a smile, "After getting married, my rtionship with my brother is quite good, amazing. "

    "Your brother is a good person, spend more time with him." Yang Hongying went to sweep the floor, but this time, Gu Juntao couldn��t wait anymore. He threw away her broom and took her to the bedroom.

    Yang Hongying said helplessly, "Do we really have to be like this?! What if someonees again?"

    "No one will! Who woulde sote, let��s hurry and make a baby."

    The door closed, and intimate sounds emerged from the bedroom.

    The ce where the couple was staying was small, not the courtyard they had before, with building levels. There was no one to help with the housework, and the food wasn��t great, but Gu Juntao still felt very blessed, this was the image of a home.

    In the Gu Family, Wang Guihua sat dazed on the sofa.

    Since Gu Juntao got married, she often found herself like this.

    Thinking of her son being with a widow, her heart ached like needles were jabbing her. She silently cursed every day, wishing the rtionship would end. Gu Zishan nced at his wife, sighed, and went to his father��s study.

    Gu Dongfang was looking at a map, and when he saw his sone in, he said, "What��s the matter?"

    "Dad, someone from the Yang Family contacted me."

    Gu Dongfang frowned slightly, "Yang Xiong? Is there an issue?"

    "It��s not Yang Xiong, it��s his son, Yang Haijun."

 Chapter 205: Why So Stupid

    <h4>Chapter 205: Chapter 205: Why So Stupid</h4>

    "Oh, what��s wrong?" Gu Dongfang had no goodwill toward Yang Yun��s father. He relied on being a celebrity progeny to do many bad things. If it were Yang Xiong, there wouldn��t be a choice but to give him some face, but as for him, forget it.

    Gu Zishan said, "Yang Haijun��s daughter and Gu Junming had some conflict, and things got really unpleasant. He said the families at least know each other, hoping to give a chance for the families to interact and resolve the conflict. What��s Father��s view on this?"

    He exined the situation because he had heard it from Father Yang. He was naturally more inclined towards Father Yang, only saying it was a misunderstanding and subtly painting Sun Chan as quite petty.

    Gu Dongfang said ndly, "Hmm, this issue indeed caused quite a fuss."

    Upon hearing his father��s words, Gu Junming felt very excited. He hadn��t been fond of Sun Chan, and now, with so many things happening, he couldn��t possibly feel anything positive.

    "Dad, I think this Sun Chan may be young but she isn��tcking in thoughtfulness. If she were to marry Gu Junming in the future, even a small conflict would cause such a ruckus, which isn��t good for Gu Junming. Now, because of this matter, things have soured with the Yang Family. I think it��s better to let them separate."

    "Wasn��t this matter agreed upon already? You don��t need to involve yourself."

    Gu Zishan said, "But with Sun Chan��s temper like this, she��s offended the Yang Family. I��m worried it might not be good for Gu Junming��s future."

    "What nonsense are you talking!" Gu Dongfang pped the table, causing Gu Zishan to tremble all over and looked at his father in shock.

    "Dad, why are you so angry?"

    "You dare ask me why I��m angry? Sun Chan, a young girl, was ndered for inappropriate involvement, and the Yang Family even brought their daughter to point fingers and scold her. Bai Fann also mixed in! If this happened to you, how would you react? Sun Chan is not doing this just to save herself from trouble; if she doesn��t act this way, it��s not only her who will suffer, but your son��s future will be bleak too!"

    "This..."

    "Right now, the Yang Family is worried, and they��ve gone overboard. You��re ming Gu Junming and Sun Chan instead? If it weren��t for Sun Chan, would Gu Junming have been able to go to a new unit? He would have been locked up to write a report! Sigh! How could such a muddle-headed person like you reach this stage? Can��t you see that the Yang family had impure motives from the start? Now that something��s happened and his daughter is in trouble, he remembers our rtionship? When finding leadership to step in early on, why didn��t they think about our family ties?" Gu Dongfang was extremely disappointed in his son, didn��t want to look at him. How could he be so foolish!

    Gu Zishan was reprimanded by his father, and dared not speak. Upon reflection, it wasn��t unreasonable, but he was worried about the Yang Family.

    Gu Dongfang said, "Don��t you know about your son? His future was forged by his own efforts, without relying on any connections. The leaders above certainly know, rest assured, even if the Yang Family wanted to resort to underhanded tactics, it won��t be easy."

    It��s not like several years ago anymore, no matter how powerful the Yang Family might be, they��re already at the end of their strength. Yang Xiong is a good person, Yang Haijun is still so mediocre, what��s there to worry about?

    After a while, Gu Zishan said, "Then I might have been inconsiderate. So should we not meet with them?"

    Gu Dongfang said, "We should meet, I will see Yang Xiong and rify things to avoid any misunderstandings. There��s no need to see the rest, you��re also not young anymore, you should discern right from wrong, yet you��re not even as good as Gu Juntao!"

    Gu Juntao used to be somewhat muddled, but now that he��s married, professional, he��s be much smarter. How could Gu Zishan end up like this? Well, if he were smarter, he wouldn��t have abandoned his original spouse and ended up the way he did with his eldest son.

    Even Gu Junming doesn��t bother with him now, yet he still thinks of using the position of father to suppress Gu Junming, what��s he thinking!

    Gu Zishan was sent out after only saying a few words. Feeling very wronged, what kind of nonsense is this? I just want my son to have a good future, is that wrong? Is marrying a vige girl really good?

    But he dared not say anymore and went back to rest.

    Seeing his wife still there in a daze, he got angry inside.

    "What are you still doing here? Every day doing nothing, just dazing around here, it��s enough, I��m really tired of seeing your face like this!"

    Wang Guihua red at Gu Zishan, "You��re just useless! You��ve handed over our son��s life to a widow without caring, you say I do nothing, are you not just wandering aimlessly!"

    Now Gu Zishan is also semi-retired, he really doesn��t want to retire, but it seems unavoidable, by March, he officially steps down.

    Having been scolded by his father, Gu Zishan was angry enough. Now being scolded by his wife, he couldn��t hold back any longer, "Do you know your son��s character? If he doesn��t marry Yang Hongying, who else can he marry? This is already good enough! If it weren��t for me, he��d be doomed long ago! And expecting to get specialized in the military? Look at Gu Junming, that��s my gene, Gu Juntao takes after you, you needn��t be dissatisfied, anyway, this is how he��ll be in this lifetime."

    With his eldest son, Gu Zishan had high expectations, but with his younger son, he was more objective.

    He thought Yang Hongying��s qualifications were good, she was good-looking, had a decent family background, even had Yan Kai as her cousin. If she weren��t a widow, Gu Juntao wouldn��t have pursued her.

    Wang Guihua was so angry she nearly fainted, "What did you say? Gu Zishan, you��re too much!" She rushed at Gu Zishan��s arm, Gu Zishan pushed Wang Guihua away, and went into his room, mming the door.

    Wang Guihua covered her face, went back to her room crying non-stop, didn��t sleep well all night, and the couple once again started a cold war over their son.

    Hearing themotion outside, Gu Dongfang pretended not to know, not deaf nor dumb, doesn��t act as the head of the household. Wang Guihua, being prideful and arrogant, won��t know unless she manages it herself, just let it be, with time it will resolve.

    Wang Guihua thought in her room, Yang Hongying can��t continue living with the son, especially can��t have kids, so she came up with a n to let the son and daughter-inw move back home.

    Of course, Gu Juntao and Yang Hongying were reluctant, Yang Hongying didn��t dare speak, Gu Juntao just said he didn��t want to return.

    "We cane visit you whenever we have time."

    But Wang Guihua said, "Every family does this, at least live here for a year so that I can properly teach her how to be a daughter-inw; it won��t be long. I��ve raised you all these years, and now you married and don��t care about me anymore? How have I treated you! Forgetten about your childhood dealings? I can��t believe I��ve raised such an ungrateful son! If you don��te back, nevere back for life!"

    She cried and hung up the phone.

    Gu Juntao and Yang Hongying looked at each other, both sighed.

    Meanwhile, Gu Junming arranged a ce smoothly for Sun Chan, it was an apartment found through a formerrade, with results quickly produced, and they moved within three days.

 Chapter 206 Moving House

    <h4>Chapter 206: Chapter 206 Moving House</h4>

    This house belongs to a rtive of the other party, who is currently overseas and cannot return temporarily. The other party doesn��t charge rent, but the only requirement is not to damage the house. Sun Chan was overjoyed. She thought she would lose a lot of money. Who knew the other party wouldn��t charge rent.

    That day, not only did Gu Juntao and his wifee, but Guihua and Yang Liu also came. Han Dong wasn��t here, but after he found out, he sent a friend over with a car to help.

    The young man was quite handsome, standing at six feet one, with dimples when he smiled, and he was very enthusiastic and proactive in moving things.

    Guihua looked at the guy and smiled, saying, "Not bad looking. Quite a match for Yang Liu, isn��t he?"

    Yang Liu hurriedly said, "Sis, what are you talking about? Why are you doing this again!"

    It turns out that recently, as long as Guihua saw a good man, she would say he matched Yang Liu well.

    Yang Liu anxiously said, "Am I that old? You keep wanting to introduce someone to me?"

    Guihuaughed, "I truly think you make a good match."

    Yang Liu then got into an anxious quarrel with her.

    Sun Chan came over with a box of clothes, smiling, "You guys keep fussing around, I��m getting anxious here."

    "We know we��re wrong!" Guihua said with augh and went off to move things.

    Gu Juntao exined the situation to his brother, "What to do? I know what my mom wants, she just doesn��t want us to have a good life. But seeing her cry, I worry about her falling ill if I don��t go."

    Gu Junming nced at Gu Juntao, "I didn��t expect you to be such a caring husband."

    "Of course I care for my wife. You know how difficult it was for me to marry her? Her life has been so tough. I really can��t bear to see her suffer anymore. But my mom raised me, I can��t just ignore her," Gu Juntao said with a headache.

    Gu Junming said, "Go back. If you keep arguing, she��s in the wrong. If you don��t go back, you��re at fault. You��ve managed to stick it out for a year, see. If things get too out of hand, Grandpa won��t ignore it, and your wife can��t be mistreated forever."

    "Got it, I��ll move back next month," thought Gu Juntao, just because her husband died, every time I see my mom it��s like I��m a sinner, I can��t tolerate this.

    Once they finished moving everything, Sun Chan made a table full of good dishes, also cooked some frozen dumplings, and everyone ate together.

    Yang Liu smiled, "Congrattions on the housewarming!"

    Sun Chan said, "It doesn��t really count; it��s just temporary help staying here."

    "Well, work hard, and you��ll have your own house in the future," Guihua said with a smile.

    "Yes, exactly. Work hard," Gu Juntaoughed, "By then I��ll support you, I don��t have money, but I can offer my strength."

    Everyoneughed.

    After everyone left, Sun Chan tidied up the room. The sheets and covers were off-white. The house wasn��t big, but it felt very cozy.

    Sun Chan took a cloth and cleaned the wall surrounds. During this time, Gu Junming helped clean the windows, and tidied up a lot of leftover trash on the balcony.

    Sun Chan said, "This ce is quite close to the main road."

    "Yes, and if you walk a street forward, it��s the Radio and TV University."

    Sun Chan was pleasantly surprised, "Is it that good?"

    "Yes, if you get into the Radio and TV University, it��ll be very convenient formuting to school."

    Sun Chan smiled especially happily, and Gu Junming took her to the next room, "This will be your study room, study well."

    Sun Chan indeed saw a desk inside, along with amp, and a small bookcase filled with books, really giving the feeling of a study, so she smiled and nodded, "Thank you!"

    "No need to be polite, I should treat you well," Gu Junming smiled.

    "To show my gratitude, I��ll make noodles for you tonight."

    Gu Junming quickly said, "No need. I��ll be going back now. I��lle to see you when I��m off."

    Sun Chan nodded and saw him out. Ever since thest incident, the two of them hadn��t spent a night in the same room.

    However, their feelings weren��t affected.

    Sun Chan��s life stabilized. During the day, she sold fruits, helped Sister Guihua, and studied when she had time, visiting school once a week to learn some knowledge.

    During this time, her rtionship with Yang Zhen was also good. Yang Zhen was gentle, and Sun Chan was easy-going. The two asionally chatted together, and Yang Zhen also went to her fruit store for chats, and they became friends this way.

    Things were going well on Sun Chan��s side, but it wasn��t so good on the Wang family��s side.

    Mrs. Wang sat angrily on the edge of the sofa, calling her son. She was usually a reserved person, but she couldn��t control her anger now: "What are we supposed to do now? I just went to the Bai Family again. Bai Fann is always causing a scene and wants to divorce you. I think you really need to seriously consider it. Someone like her, marrying into our family, can��t be that way. She can��t even help with household chores or be a good wife and mother to support a family, right? At least she shouldn��t act so crazy! Not even able to have a child, isn��t that going a bit too far!"

    "What are you saying!" Father Wang was very angry, "Let them decide their marriage for themselves! Coming into one family and leaving another isn��t easy, and do you want them to divorce? What you��re saying is too much!"

    "Am I wrong? Can��t even keep a child, always thinking about her own family! And treating us that way..."

    "Enough, do you want them to divorce?"

    "Divorce if they want, I really can��t stand it!" Mrs. Wang had a splitting headache. The thought of visiting her daughter-inw today, and Bai Fann��s contempt and indifference as though she was a senior elder, looking down her nose at her, really made her too angry.

    Mrs. Wang patiently tried to advise her not to be angry with Wang Hu anymore.

    Who knew that Bai Fann would throw everything from the table to the floor: "Whatever you say is useless! I won��t agree with you! Just get him toe back, I want a divorce." She finished speaking and turned her back to sleep.

    Mrs. Wang was almost angered to death, and Father Wang also sighed heavily.

    "Wang Hu, speak up, what are your thoughts?"

    Wang Hu thought for a moment and said, "She really said she wants to divorce me?"

    "Yes," Mrs. Wang said, "I��ve said and advised everything I should, and she still refuses to agree. We��re getting on in age, when have we ever been treated like this? If you really want us to die early, then continue living with her."

    Father Wang angrily pushed his wife��s arm aside and took the phone, "Don��t listen to your mother, she��s just too angry. Marriage is your own business, think it over yourself, after all, it��s not been long since you got married, getting divorced now isn��t great either."

    Wang Hu said, "I know, I agreed to it, tell Bai Fann, I��ll be back next week during my vacation to directly handle the divorce procedures with her."

 Chapter 207: Divorce Is Forbidden

    <h4>Chapter 207: Chapter 207: Divorce Is Forbidden</h4>

    Wang Hu, worried about his parents�� concerns, said, "Mom, Dad, don��t worry. I can handle this blow. You shouldn��t be too upset either. Bai Fann and I were never meant to be. From the start, things felt awkward between us. Since she despises me so much, I can��t force her to stay. If she can find happiness, I��m willing to let her go."

    Mrs. Wang sighed, "Forget it! I can��t intervene! Take care of your own matters."

    "Isn��t this too much? Getting a divorce just months after the wedding, isn��t that outrageous?" Father Wang still hoped the two wouldn��t divorce. How many couples have divorced nowadays? If Wang Hu wants to move forward, he can��t divorce so easily, or it could cause trouble if someone with ill intentions makes something of it.

    Wang Hu smiled, "Dad, don��t worry. It��s not like decades ago. Marriage is free now. Besides, Bai Fann brought it up first. It won��t have any effect. Let��s leave it at that." He hung up the phone.

    Turning back, he saw the girl in military uniform, hands behind her back, smiling at him.

    Wang Hu was startled, "Yao DianDian, what are you doing? Eavesdropping on my call."

    "I didn��t mean to. I came to make a call too and happened to overhear a few words." Yao DianDian looked at him intently. Wang Hu felt uneasy under her gaze, touched his face, and said, "Is there something on my face? Why are you looking at me like that?"

    "No, I just want to offer my condolences."

    "What nonsense, it��s just a divorce, no one��s dead." Wang Hu thought to himself, this girl��s so young, she doesn��t understand anything.

    Who knew Yao DianDian would say, "Didn��t they say marriage is the grave of love? Your love��s long dead, your marriage��s dead, died twice, of course, I owe you my condolences."

    Wang Hu couldn��t help butugh, what kind of logic is that! Toozy to talk more with her, "Go make your call, I��m heading back."

    Yao DianDian hummed, waved him off, and went to make her call. In her heart, she thought, he��s divorced now, I have a chance. He��s a bit of a blockhead, but a very likable blockhead.

    Wang Hu didn��t know he was being targeted. He asked for leave from his superior and returned overnight.

    Bai Fann was sulking at home while Bai Chuan kept nagging her after the Wang Family left.

    "How could you speak to your inws like that? They are your husband��s parents, your elders! Be careful, they��llin to Wang Hu, and you��ll be divorced!"

    Bai Fann, irritated, turned away from her grandfather, "I��m tired, I don��t want to talk." She never expected a divorce from Wang Hu. She just wanted to stir things up, hoping for Wang Hu��sfort. Since her miscarriage, Wang Hu had ignored herpletely. She was just angry.

    Bai Chuan said, "You��re really out of line."

    Bai Fann sneered, "They��re all good people, and I��m the one with corrupt morals. Otherwise, how could I have been fired? Grandpa, you don��t even help me find a job, just scold me here!"

    "I��m not scolding you, you child, you��re really..."

    "Grandpa, stop talking!" She sat up in frustration, "I never liked Wang Hu that much from the start. It was you who insisted I be with him! He doesn��t care about me, pays no attention. Even after the miscarriage, he stayedfortably in Beijing, showing no consideration, not even a call. My whole life is sacrificed for grandpa!"

    Bai Chuan looked at her. She was willing herself, marrying Wang Hu to garner envy and jealousy, but now that there��s trouble, she mes it on him. But she��s his granddaughter, how could he quarrel?

    "Alright, it��s my fault. What do you want? A divorce?" Bai Chuan asked.

    Bai Fann bit her lip, "Who said that! I want to work. The Wang Family treats me poorly because I��m unemployed. I can��t work in logistics. When can you get me back to work? I can��t stand people staring at me."

    If she returns to the unit and goes to logistics, she��d be drowned in spit.

    "Fine, I��ll think of something. The military hospital is out, I��ll transfer you to the First Hospital. I have an oldrade��s son who��s a deputy director there."

    "Whatever, just hurry it up, I��m sick of staying at home." She closed her eyes and went back to sleep.

    She thought to herself, no matter how much they dislike me, I can easily get a job, much better than someone useless like Sun Chan! She thought to herself; if I ever encounter Sun Chaning for treatment, I��ll definitely show her my strength!

    Bai Chuan sighed helplessly and turned away. Originally hoping his granddaughter could help him, he introduced her to the Wang Family, but who knew it would turn out like this. The Wang Family��s impression of him worsened, from aplishing nothing to causing trouble!

    "I already paved her path so well, yet she walked it like this!"

    After this incident, Bai Chuan lost all confidence in her, letting her do as she pleased.

    Bai Fann wanted to give Wang Hu a hard lesson, so when Wang Hu appeared a weekter to finalize the divorce, she nearly broke down.

    Her job was set, she was about to start, but then came this shocking news!

    But Bai Fann wasn��t one to admit defeat, clenching her teeth, "Do you really want a divorce?"

    Wang Hu said, "Isn��t this what you wanted? I came back specifically for this."

    Bai Fann red at Wang Hu bitterly, his expression as calm as still water, very indifferent.

    She grabbed her coat, "Fine, divorce! No big deal."

    "Stop this!" Bai Chuan rushed over, "Why are you talking about divorce? Marriage isn��t a joke!"

    "Grandpa! Can��t you see Wang Hu doesn��t want me? I have to live with some dignity, can��t let people think I can��t live without him!"

    "You��re talking about dignity now?" Bai Chuan was going mad with anger, he couldn��t persuade Bai Fann, so he had to try Wang Hu.

    He held Wang Hu��s arm, "Let��s discuss this. You have a promising future, you��re outstanding. But once my granddaughter��s divorced, what then? I know she��s inconsiderate, but please give her another chance."

    "Grandpa, what are you saying? Who��s asking him?" Bai Fann gritted her teeth, "Wang Hu! Just go, don��t waste time."

    Wang Hu saw Bai Fann��s pale and haggard face. He felt a bit uneasy. Though he didn��t love this woman, they had lived together for a while, and he was momentarily at a loss. But Bai Fann was relentless, insisting on divorce.

    Bai Chuan went to hold her back, "You can��t go! As long as I��m alive, you two can��t divorce!"

 Chapter 208 Visit

    <h4>Chapter 208: Chapter 208 Visit</h4>

    "Don��t worry about me, Grandpa!"

    She gave a strong push, and Bai Chuan hit the corner of the cab behind him. Just as he was about to speak, he suddenly clutched his chest and fell to the ground, in great pain.

    Wang Hu and Bai Fann shouted together, "Grandpa!"

    Bai Fann was scared to death. Although she had been arguing with Grandpa recently, she knew he was the closest person to her. She rushed over anxiously to support Bai Chuan.

    Bai Chuan��s jaw was clenched tightly, and he couldn��t open his eyes.

    After all, she was a doctor, so she hurried over to perform CPR on him.

    "Grandpa, wake up, I was wrong, I shouldn��t have ignored you, I didn��t mean it, I was wrong!" She cried frantically while performing CPR.

    Wang Hu went to call an ambnce.

    Bai Chuan then opened his eyes, weakly gripping her wrist, "No... don��t get a divorce, otherwise I will certainly die."

    Bai Fann cried, "I understand, I won��t get a divorce! Grandpa, I was wrong! As long as you��re okay, I��ll agree to anything!"

    Wang Hu looked at her and frowned without speaking.

    The two of them took Bai Chuan to the hospital. After the doctor examined him, luckily there was nothing serious; it was likely just a momentary shock. His heart was normal.

    "Grandpa, you really scared me to death," Bai Fann choked up.

    Bai Chuany there without speaking, thinking, If I didn��t pretend to be sick, you��d go through with the divorce. At my age, I still have to be troubled by you, all because you��re a foolish woman!

    Bai Fann��s eyes were swollen, "I was wrong, I��m sorry, Grandpa. Speak to me."

    Bai Chuan ignored her and looked at Wang Hu, "Can you... give her another chance? If you two really get divorced, I won��t rest in peace."

    "Grandpa... Why do you plead with him..." Bai Fann felt ashamed.

    "Shut up!" Bai Chuan red at Bai Fann, then looked at Wang Hu with a vulnerable expression.

    Wang Hu calmly said, "Yes, I will think about it carefully."

    Given the situation they were facing, talking about divorce seemed inconsiderate now. He stayed until the evening; Bai Chuan kept urging him to leave.

    Wang Hu was indeed exhausted, having not rested since getting off the train, "I��ll head back first. I��lle to see you tomorrow."

    "Go ahead, about your parents..."

    "I��ll talk to them, don��t worry," Wang Hu said, and directly left. Bai Chuan signaled his granddaughter several times, but she didn��t react or see him off, so he could only sigh.

    "Grandpa, don��t be like this, I��ll be fine."

    Bai Chuan nced at Bai Fann, "If you get a divorce, I won��t recognize you anymore, and you won��t need to go to work."

    "Grandpa..."

    "You��re driving me to death, with all your abilities! Do I still need to help you? You can find a job on your own, I won��t care anymore."

    Bai Fann started crying, "I was wrong, Grandpa, I won��t get divorced."

    Bai Chuan remained silent, thinking, let it be. No matter what, they can��t get divorced. Pressuring her with work is good too. As for Wang Hu, he is very responsible and probably won��t insist on the divorce.

    After Wang Hu got home, he persuaded his parents a bit; they didn��t want a divorce either, so they settled for a temporary separation.

    During the subsequent period, the two families even found opportunities to let Bai Fann and Wang Hu be alone together. But they didn��t talk much; Bai Fann was resentful, feeling she didn��t receive constion after the miscarriage, upset in her heart. Plus, with her grandfather��s illness, she felt it was Wang Hu��s fault, remaining very cold towards him.

    Wang Hu wasn��t very talkative either, and with her unfilial behavior towards his parents, he was reluctant to speak to her.

    Bai Chuan was anxious but helpless.

    Wang Hu returned after his leave was used up.

    Bai Fann knew he was leaving but didn��t see him off, saying she was taking care of Grandpa.

    Wang Hu felt indifferent; now being with Bai Fann was exhausting, better not to meet.

    Mrs. Wangined, "Where��s the awareness and responsibility of a wife, married for so long, has spent most of her time at her mother��s home."

    "Forget it, don��t care, Wang Hu said he��d deal with it himself? We don��t need her to serve us anyway."

    "I know." Mrs. Wang went to cook, thinking, among those around me, I am the only one who might as well not have a daughter-inw.

    When Wang Hu returned to Beijing, Yao DianDian knew he hadn��t divorced and felt disheartened, but wasn��t impatient. She saw from Wang Hu��s expression that there was absolutely no affection between husband and wife.

    I��m still young; I can wait.

    The weather gradually had warmed up. That day, Sun Chan��s fruits sold quickly, and she sold out before noon.

    It happened to be Sunday, and there were no sses at school, so Sun Chan took the opportunity to take a day off. She returned home and washed her quilts, as well as all her winter clothes like jackets and sweaters. Her balcony was filled with clothes hanging, and the clothes kept dripping water with a basin ced underneath.

    At this time, Yang Zhen came over for a visit since she was free, and to celebrate Sun Chan��s recent relocation, she brought some tasty treats and two books of internal teacher materials for her.

    Although she hadn��te before, the ce was easy to find, so Yang Zhen inquired a bit and found it.

    Seeing those materials, Sun Chan was very happy,ughingly said, "These things are perfect for me, thank you so much! Have you had lunch? Why don��t you eat here."

    "Sure. I��ll grab a bite."

    Sun Chan began making pancakes, not just for Yang Zhen; Gu Junming should being tonight too, need to make more.

    Yang Zhen helped peel potatoes; the two were busy while chatting andughing, when suddenly someone was knocking on the door quite urgently, bang bang, startling them. They hurried over and didn��t open the door, asking through it who it was.

    "It��s me! Who did you think it was?"

    It was actually Han Dong��s voice! She breathed a sigh of relief and hurriedly went over. Han Dong rushed in, wearing a ck suit, looking quite spirited. He smiled broadly at Sun Chan, "Scared you?"

    Sun Chan said, "Couldn��t you knock more gently? You��re going to give me a heart attack!"

    Seeing Han Dong, Yang Zhen was taken aback, then turned her head slightly embarrassed.

    Han Dong wasn��t awkward at all, smiling and greeting, "It��s you, pretty teacher? Long time no see."

    Yang Zhen smiled, exchanged a few words with him.

    Sun Chan said, "Have you gone on any blind dates recently?"

    "Why talk about such unlucky topics?" Han Dongughed, "Make me two pancakes, oh, in a few days, I��m leaving."

    "Where to?"

    "To Shenzhen."

    Sun Chan was stunned, "So far? Do you have to go there to sell fruit?"

    Han Dong chuckled, "Not doing fruit! I��m going to get some clothes. Now southern clothes sell very well here, like jackets, skirts, etc., they cost cheap, and sell for high prices! I want to earn a profit. I might not necessarily sell clothes either."

 Chapter 209: Want to travel far?

    <h4>Chapter 209: Chapter 209: Want to travel far?</h4>

    Sun Chan nodded: "Oh, that��s how it is. Be careful, you��re unfamiliar with the ce, I��m worried about you." The clothes in the south are indeed more fashionable than those in the north. If they could be brought back, they��d make money.

    "Are you going or not? I��ll take you." Han Dong suddenly looked up and said: "You don��t have much to do, right? You can leave the fruit to Yang Liu to sell for two days. It��s not much. Even if you close the shop for two days, it wouldn��t matter."

    "But I still need to study."

    "Just take those two books with you." Han Dongughed: "Are you afraid to go?"

    Sun Chan had never been so far away before. She was a bit tempted but still quite scared.

    Yang Zhen listened and felt envious, smiling: "I want to go too, but I still have sses. But if you can go, you should go. It��s great to see the world, right? Later on when you get married and have kids, you won��t be able to go."

    "Exactly! If I had the money, getting some clothes might earn a bit."

    Sun Chan nodded, wanting to discuss it with Gu Junming. In her previous life, she was always stuck in the vige, but now aftering out, everything felt great. If there��s a chance, she wants to see the world.

    Han Dongughed: "Don��t worry, I won��t bully you, you��re like a sister-inw to me."

    "Who said you��d bully me?" Sheughed.

    Han Dong was interesting��one person he liked, another person who liked him, the three of them eating together without any awkwardness.

    Yang Zhen also felt he was interesting. It��s a pity such a good person didn��t end up with her, she felt regretful.

    Han Dong suddenly patted his head: "Almost forgot to tell you, do you still remember Su Miao?"

    He had wanted to tell her about Su Miao but forgot.

    "Remember the annoying woman who lived opposite our house?"

    "Yeah, I remember. Did she get into something again?"

    Han Dong gave a disdainful smile: "I knew she was trouble from the first time I saw her. She��s now working in the military garment department. She��s a team leader there, thanks to Zhao Yingjun. Zhao is a notorious old lecher, and of course, he paid a price for it. Su Jinxiu found out they were together, which caused a scene. Now Zhao Yingjun is about to get divorced. Their family has be aughingstock in ourmunity."

    Sun Chan thought about the trouble during New Year in the vige, losing a child then, and thought they��d learn a lesson. But things got worse instead. When she first met Sun Miao, she thought she was an eerie woman; turns out she was right, but it��s others�� business, and she didn��t want toment.

    After dinner, Yang Zhen said goodbye, and Han Dong picked up his coat: "I��ll walk with you."

    Yang Zhen felt touched, nodded and smiled. With them being so casual, she couldn��t dwell on it.

    Before leaving, Han Dong said to Sun Chan: "Discuss it with Gu Junming. Before you leave, I��lle to find you."

    "Okay. I��ll think about it." Sun Chanughed.

    She considered it; she had more than five hundred bucks now. If she could get some clothes, maybe she could make some money. Even if not, going out to see the world would be nice.

    Han Dong and Yang Zhen left together, asionally joking along the way. It was nice.

    Yang Zhen said: "You really are a special person."

    Han Dongughed: "Don��t fall in love with me, I know I��m handsome, but if you fall in love with me, that��s no good."

    Yang Zhenughed too: "Okay, I won��t like you."

    Han Dong yawned: "Ah, so empty. I really need to earn more money to be a wealthy and handsome tycoon."

    He said, striding forward. Yang Zhen pursed her lips and smiled behind him.

    That evening, Gu Junming came back. Sun Chan opened the door to see him covered in dust.

    "What happened?"

    "Hmm, we went to carry some sand and cement today."

    "Were you heading to the quake area?"

    "Yes. It��s the start of spring, and reconstruction needs to begin." Gu Junming took off his clothes, handed them to Sun Chan, and went to wash up. He sat down and ate five pancakes and arge bowl of shredded potatoes.

    Sun Chan soaked his outer clothes in a basin, since he had a day off tomorrow and didn��t need to wear his military uniform. There were some of Gu Junming��s clothes here, so she found a shirt for him.

    As she washed clothes, she talked to him about the Su Miao incident. Gu Junming frowned slightly.

    "Not everyone can get into a defense factory; Su Miao has a strong background, yet she��s not military-rted, surprisingly got in."

    Defense factory workers usually are families of military personnel; the sry and benefits are high. Su Miao getting in was obviously irregr.

    But Gu Junming didn��t want to bother since it had nothing to do with them.

    "Su Miao isn��t good; it��s best not to have contact if possible."

    Sun Chan said: "Hmm, she never bothered me."

    "Let��s not talk about her."

    Sun Chan nodded and mentioned Han Dong��s n to take her to Shenzhen: "Do you think I should go?"

    "Do you want to go?" Gu Junming looked up at her.

    Sun Chan smiled and didn��t deny it.

    "If you want to go, go. Is the money enough?" Gu Junming said: "I have money in my savings ount."

    Sun Chan hesitated, smiled: "I thought you��d be upset"

    "Because you��re going alone with Han Dong? Don��t worry, I trust him, he won��t."

    "What do you want? I��ll buy something back for you."

    Gu Junming walked over, ruffled her hair with a smile: "No need, take care of yourself. It��s good to gain experience before marriage."

    Sun Chan blushed and continued washing clothes. Gu Junming helped wring out the clothes and hang them up.

    Gu Junming nced at his watch: "It��ste, I should head back. Sleep well."

    Sun Chan didn��t speak, saw Gu Junming off at the door, wanting him to stay but rememberedst time and didn��t say it.

    Gu Junming smiled: "I��lle over early tomorrow. We can sell fruit together, and I��ll help you with some problems."

    Sun Chan nodded: "Then have breakfast here, I��ll make you dumpling soup."

    "Alright." Gu Junming hugged Sun Chan and turned to leave.

    Sun Chan felt a burst of happiness, closed the door.

    Meanwhile, Su Miao, whom they discussed, was doing well, watching TV in a spacious room.

    Although working at the defense factory with her dorm room, Su Miao was used tofort and wouldn��t live there, so Zhao Yingjun rented her a nearby apartment��a one-bedroom unit. It��s small but enough, and she had some things to avoid others knowing, staying farther away was better.

 Chapter 210 Shameless

    <h4>Chapter 210: Chapter 210 Shameless</h4>

    Su Miao waszily watching TV at the moment, but her mind was a little chaotic.

    She didn��t want people to know about her rtionship with Zhao Yingjun. Ever since he��d found her a job, he��d been acting like a hero, constantly finding ways to bother her and inviting her out every few days.

    Most of the time, it was at night, and Su Miao was well aware of his intentions, so she was extremely annoyed. But there was nothing she could do about it since she had benefited from him.

    Shortly after the New Year, he ushered her back to the city, first introducing her to several good jobs, but none quite suited Su Miao��s preferences. Even though working in the justice system was appealing, it was just a temp job, only serving tea and water, which she didn��t like.

    Later, Zhao Yingjun found her the job she currently has, which finally satisfied Su Miao.

    However, Su Miao hadn��t let this person have his way. She was acutely aware not to let him take advantage easily. She needed to hang on to him steadily and make good use of his resources.

    Zhao Yingjun was now at home, arguing with Su Jinxiu.

    He was utterly annoyed at home and wanted to leave, but his wife, Su Jinxiu, wouldn��t let him: "You are not allowed to go out! It��s sote at night, what do you n to do?"

    Since thest incident in the vige, where they almost lost their child, Su Jinxiu had cut off most contact with her family. She resented Su Miao, her elder brother and sister-inw, and most of all, her husband.

    Zhao Yingjun��s current attitude was extremely cold and sarcastic, not sharing a bed with her; he slept in the guest room every night. If it weren��t for their son, he probably would have divorced her already.

    Su Jinxiu knew it had something to do with her past issues with Su Miao, so she would shame him and Su Miao during arguments: "Have you ever considered what your rtionship with her is really like? If it gets out, it��ll just be aughingstock."

    But Zhao Yingjun didn��t care at all: "What if I just like Su Miao? She��s adorable, pretty, and has a good figure. Look at you, you look like a big fat pig. Why would I like you?"

    "You��re despicable and shameless! I gained weight because of you! You��re an ungrateful rogue, coveting your own niece, are you even human?" Su Miao grabbed a pillow and threw it at his face.

    Zhao Yingjun casually caught the pillow, sneering: "Everyone else might have the right to shame me, but not you! Have you forgotten how you seduced me back then? You didn��te from a proper path, so don��t act all innocent. I��m also not heartless; I won��t divorce you since you gave me a son. But stop telling me these useless things, don��t try to control me, or you��ll find yourself sent back home in disgrace!"

    Originally, Su Jinxiu had hooked up with Zhao Yingjun at the office, with their first encounter scandalously urring in a restroom. Su Jinxiu was determined to marry him and live in the city, even while he was still married, so she wasn��t concerned about shame.

    "You��ve done all sorts of wanton things before, and now you want to be a virtuous wife and mother, how ridiculous!"

    Su Miao cursed: "That bitch, and that foxy slut! I won��t let you get away with this! You��re nothing but filthy animals! I��ll go to your workce and expose all your shameful deeds to the public!"

    "Heh, do whatever you want. Anyway, if I lose face, what benefits do you gain? We don��t have any real connection; you have no evidence to defame me. If you make too big of a fuss, you��ll gain nothing from me in the future!" He mmed the door shut and left. Just then, he ran into Han Dong and his mom, who were out buying some fruit for the evening.

    These days, the two had been arguing nonstop over Su Miao, something the neighbors were quite aware of. Zhao Yingjun came to terms with it��since things were already like this, why care? He might as well endure beingbeled improper, so he just nodded and walked away.

    Han Dong sneered: "What a thing it is! And such a person is still in office? Themon folks are doomed."

    "Lower your voice," Han Dong��s mother, also disliking the neighbors, replied. But since it wasn��t their business, she opened the door and brought her son inside.

    Walking down the road, Zhao Yingjun thought about how troublesome it had been to help Su Miao find this job. It took a lot of connections and effort, yet this girl benefits and still avoids me? I��ve rented her an apartment and arranged work for her; it��s time I got some reward.

    He was actually quite eager. He must have her tonight.

    Seeing her husband leave like this, Su Jinxiu held her child and burst into tears.

    What kind of life is she living now? Wasn��t her life good? Why had it turned out like this? All because of Su Miao! Filled with hatred, she tightened her grip unconsciously, causing the child in her arms to cry out from the pressure.

    Su Jinxiu irritably ced the child on the side of the bed. If not for having the child, her body wouldn��t have changed!

    "Bitch! Just wait, I won��t let you off lightly!"

    Meanwhile, Zhao Yingjun floated along carefree to Su Miao��s ce.

    Su Miao was thinking while watching TV when she heard the sound at the door.

    Someone was opening the door, and Su Miao frowned slightly, already knowing who it was.

    Zhao Yingjun hadn��t mentioned he had a key here, but since he was paying the rent, she had no say in it, so whatever, let him have the key.

    Zhao Yingjun saw Su Miaozily leaning against the headboard and said with a smile, "You��re quitezy."

    "Working makes me tired," Su Miao yawned.

    She wore a pink blouse and white pants, making her skin appear even more fair. Zhao Yingjun, seeing her bright eyes, couldn��t help himself, reaching out to touch her cheek, but Su Miao dodged.

    Zhao Yingjun, displeased, said, "Are you treating me like a fool, toying with me?"

    "Why would you say that?"

    "I��ve done so many things for you, and you know very well what I want, right? You��ve benefited and don��t want to give in; do you really think I have no ways to manage you?" Zhao Yingjun pinched her chin with one hand.

    Su Miao asked, "Have you divorced?"

    "No, but even so, I can still have you."

    He moved in to kiss her, but Su Miao wasn��t in a hurry, pressing her hand against his face.

    Zhao Yingjun impatiently grabbed her hand, pulling her shirt open, then moved in to kiss her lips.

    Su Miao started crying softly.

    Annoyed, Zhao Yingjun said, "If you didn��t want it, why ept my favors in the first ce? Do you take me for a fool, providing nothing but benefits, only to be discarded once you��re done using me?"

 Chapter 211: Her Plan

    <h4>Chapter 211: Chapter 211: Her n</h4>

    "I truly like you, I genuinely want to marry you and be your wife! Yet you just see me as a ything! If this were to be known, you��d merely be talked about for a while, but my entire life would be ruined!" Su Miao began to cry.

    Zhao Yingjun had initially thought, no matter how she sweet-talks, I must get my way. Who would have thought she��d say she loved me, that she genuinely wanted to spend life with me? Such a deration from a woman, even if an act of love, made it difficult to just take advantage of her and say my aim was only to toy with her.

    Looking at Su Miao��s tear-stricken, pitiful face, Zhao Yingjun sighed as well. He released her, saying, "I truly didn��t expect you to say this. Whether your feelings are real or feigned, I can��t make a move now. Haha."

    "I am sincere." Su Miao leaned on Zhao Yingjun��s shoulder, sighed, "It��s just that my aunt met you first."

    "So what? As long as you say the word, I��ll divorce her!"

    "My aunt won��t agree."

    Zhao Yingjun sneered, "Her word isn��t thew! Nowadays, marriage is a choice, it��s not about doing whatever one dictates."

    Another reason Zhao Yingjun didn��t mention was that Su Jinxiu had no significant backing, no real support. Who would fear her? Just give her more money when the timees.

    Su Miao, young and beautiful, should be the one to marry into the family.

    Su Miao lightly tapped Zhao Yingjun��s forehead with her finger, "Don��t dream too big. Have you thought about our rtionship? Once she causes a scene, your workce leaders won��t forgive you."

    If it were a typical affair, it wouldn��t be such a concern, but the rtionship here involved rtives. Su Jinxiu deeply hates these two people.

    How could she agree to a divorce? She��d probably cause a disturbance reaching even the provincial or Beijing level.

    Zhao Yingjun, for a moment, was at a loss for words.

    Su Miao grasped Zhao Yingjun��s wrist, saying, "You know so many leaders, find a bold and capable one to help with the divorce. As long as you��re connected with someonepetent, it��s possible to suppress Su Jinxiu."

    "Isn��t that a bit much, involving a leader for a divorce?"

    "Yes, if we��re capable of securing a good job for me, divorce shouldn��t be a problem. We should buy some gifts, visit the leader��s home, exin our situation, they��ll talk to my aunt, and she��ll agree to the divorce. I know what kind of person Su Jinxiu is, cowardly and easily intimidated by authority, when confronted by higher-ups, the issue will be resolved." Su Miao smiled slightly.

    Zhao Yingjun remained silent for a moment, hoping to avoid such debts of gratitude. Especially for the sake of divorce, if the leader knew, they would definitely not be happy.

    Seeing Zhao Yingjun��s reaction, Su Miao began to cry sadly, "If you��re unwilling, that��s fine! My single-minded affection only results in a breakup? Never mind, I��ll resign tomorrow, leave the apartment, return to the vige, find a matchmaker through my father, and settle down with someone decent. Why struggle in the city, facing humiliation?"

    Zhao Yingjun, seeing Su Miao��s reaction, felt overwhelmed with heartache.

    "Don��t marry someone else. I��ll marry you! I��ll speak to the leader, he��ll agree." He held Su Miao tightly.

    Su Miao��s lips curled into a smile, leaving a slight trace on her face before quickly vanishing, "Then I��ll ce my hopes on your shoulders."

    "Mm, trust me. Tonight I��ll stay here with you, alright?"

    She nodded, "Alright, let��s stay together."

    "Let��s sleep," Zhao Yingjun held Su Miao.

    Initially, Su Miao was nervous, but thinking rationally, she realized he wouldn��t dare force anything, especially as she pretended to be weak and vulnerable, truly in love with him. Leaning against him, he wouldn��t dare act untowardly; any attempt would prove his insincerity.

    Instead, Zhao Yingjun experienced a peculiar sensation, yearning for intimacy, yet witnessing her tears and vulnerability as she leaned against him, evoked some excitement inside.

    As they say, a wife is not as seductive as a mistress, a mistress cannotpare to a secret affair, and even an affair barely matches the thrill of seeing but not having, holding the person yet feeling untouchable, was truly a novel sensation.

    All night, he imagined various loving and affectionate scenarios but refrained from touching Su Miao.

    The next day, the two bought some gifts and visited the household that helped Su Miao find work, none other than the Yang Family.

    Regarding this, Father Yang and Zhao Yingjun��s mother are distant rtives. The two families were once closely connected in their younger years despite Father Yang moving to Beijing; ties were never cut off, although not particrly close in recent years, Zhao Yingjun still had to address him as cousin, and given his sessful life, Father Yang did not look down on him.

    Upon their arrival, Father Yang also received them. Coincidentally, Yang Yun was home, noticing the man and woman with gifts entering. Feeling unhappy about it, she descended the stairs slowly, "Are you here again to ask for favors or freeloading?"

    Zhao Yingjun was taken aback, then pretended not to hear, smiling as he changed his shoes, while Su Miao lowered her head, remaining silent in a very obedient and sensible manner.

    "What are you saying!" Father Yang immediately scolded, "You��re in your twenties, yet act brainless! Is this what you call talking?"

    Yang Yun pouted, intending to speak, but Father Yang continued, "Still without a stable job. You had a few matched jobs ruined by your own actions; aren��t you embarrassed to speak!"

    Previously, it didn��t seem too bad, but ever since she caused trouble for Ai Gu Junming, Father Yang became highly irritated with his daughter, incapable and merely indulgent with food, drink, and dressing up, even requiring him to write a guarantee letter, truly troublesome!

    Yang Yun responded, "I couldn��t do those jobs anyway, it��s just random work, why are you getting upset?"

    "Bank, tax office, civil administration, all sought-after jobs, youin about this and that��the workload, the leadership��you want work or a pedestal position? I��ve pampered you too much; let your grandfather handle you when he returns; I��m exhausted, can��t deal with you!"

    Yang Yun hurriedly said, "Dad! You know grandpa��s temperament; if he knows about matters, will he forgive me? You can��t abandon me!"

    If grandpa found out, he��d surely drag her back to Beijing, forsaking herfort.

    "I won��t care! Let grandpa find a temporary job for you, marry someone, I can��t tolerate you anymore."

    "Dad, do you have to scold me in front of others?" Yang Yun stomped a foot.

 Chapter 212: Like-minded

    <h4>Chapter 212: Chapter 212: Like-minded</h4>

    "Go upstairs." Father Yang waved his hand, not wanting to see her at all.

    In the past, he didn��t pay much attention to Yang Yun, just a girl, at most giving her some money, finding a match, and marriage would settle everything. Who knew this troublesome girl would cause so much trouble!

    The incident with Gu Junming not only shattered her dream of joining the army but also left him with grievances. Father Yang disliked Gu Junming, but he was equally dissatisfied with his daughter.

    Yang Yun dared not argue with her father anymore, red at those two people, turned, and stomped upstairs.

    Father Yang smiled at Zhao Yingjun; "Sorry to let you see this. This kid is too thoughtless!"

    "It��s nothing, uncle. They��re just kids; they��ll grow out of it. They just haven��t faced any real setbacks yet."

    Su Miao thought to herself, over twenty years old and still like this, it��s a failure of education. This is what happens in high-ranking families. If it were any other family, she��d probably have been dealt with already!

    Father Yang said, "She hasn��t been allowed to suffer much since she was young and is bing more and more unruly. Forget it, let��s not talk about her, let��s talk about you. Are you here for something?"

    Zhao Yingjun was about to speak when Su Miao smiled and said, "Actually, we��re just here to see you."

    Yang Yun shouted from the staircase, "Such pretense, what��s there to see about my dad? You��re just here for benefits!"

    "Shut up! Get back to your room quietly!"

    Su Miao hurriedly said, "Please don��t be angry with my sister. Her straightforward and frank nature is typical of a military family, honest and straightforward."

    Father Yang looked at Su Miao, truly a good voice, very sweet, pleasing to hear, and she had appealing looks too.

    "Are you Zhao Yingjun��s friend?"

    Su Miao smiled and said, "Not a friend, we��re rtives."

    "Oh yes, thest time I entrusted you to arrange work, it was for her."

    "Oh, is she your wife��s niece?"

    Zhao Yingjun spoke the truth back then, but now regrets it, what if Mr. Yang finds out that he intends to divorce his wife and be with her, wouldn��t that be bad?

    Su Miao stood up and said, "Thank you so much, I know how hard it is to get into a military factory, I��ll definitely work hard and strive to get a permanent position soon!"

    Currently earning a hundred a month, a stable position means a hundred and twenty plus year-end bonuses, and they give out items, everyone around knows she got in through connections, not daring to show a face, and everyone supports her, the job isn��t tiring, truly a good ce to work.

    Father Yang smiled and said, "You��re young but quite sensible. If only my daughter were like you, I��d be very satisfied."

    Su Miaoughed and said, "Ie from a vige, different from the youngdy. I see her as just being spoiled, not really unruly."

    She was good at lightening the mood, Father Yang was delighted, chatting harmoniously with them.

    Su Miao was determined to cling to the power of the Yang Family, seeing Father Yang��s smile, she knew he had no ill will towards her, her first move was sessful.

    Zhao Yingjun didn��t think much, just wanted to ask the person for help, of course, catering to them was essential.

    Father Yang invited the two for lunch.

    Su Miao shyly said, "We shouldn��t, we��re leaving. Maybe another day."

    "Ah! I haven��t been this happy in a long time, you don��t know how much trouble my daughter causes, stay, and if possible, advise Yang Yun. You��re around the same age, making friends would be good. Go upstairs, I��ll chat with Zhao Yingjun."

    Su Miao hesitated for a moment, wanted to help in the kitchen but was refused by Father Yang; they had a maid, where would they let a guest cook. Su Miao went upstairs, observing her surroundings, admiring the environment. Zhao Yingjun��s home, though decent, was just an old house with a mediocre job, waiting for retirement. But the Yang Family! Such luxury, a two-story building, cars for transport.

    Unfortunately, on the way, Zhao Yingjun mentioned they have no son, only a daughter, otherwise, seducing a son would be possible. Such a pity. She thought about it, Father Yang was older but not much older than Zhao Yingjun, not too aged. If she could be with him...

    Su Miao��s lips curled up, marrying Father Yang would be much better than marrying someone like Zhao Yingjun, and it had to be fast, rejecting Zhao Yingjun once or twice was possible, but long-term wouldn��t work. If Zhao Yingjun upied her body, she��d rather die.

    She went upstairs, the second floor was luxurious, only the room at the end was locked, after knocking, she heard shouting inside.

    "Get out!"

    A book directly hit Su Miao��s face, Yang Yun was sitting on the bed, ring at her irritably.

    Su Miao wasn��t angry, picked it up and said, "Why are you upset? Is something wrong?"

    "It��s none of your vige trouble, go away!"

    "You hate me because I came from a vige? Not everyone from the vige is like that." Su Miao smiled and approached, said, "I��m the honest type, some vige women, indeed, are disgusting, one fish spoiling the whole soup! No wonder you dislike vigers. I sometimes feel it��s bad too. But what can be done?"

    Yang Yun nced at Su Miao: "Who are you talking about?"

    "Someone you don��t know, a vige woman I know, relying on some looks, seduced someone capable. Heard she had someone in the vige, but when she caught someone in the military as a leader, she immediately ditched him. Now engaged, clinging together daily, pretending to be pure, disgusting when you think about it!"

    Yang Yun��s heart stirred: "What��s the name of this woman you speak of?"

    "Sun Chan!" Su Miao bit her lip and said, "I��ll never forget this woman in my life!"

    If it weren��t for this woman stealing her chance, she��d have married Gu Junming already, wouldn��t have sought Zhao Yingjun, causing so many problems, and needing to target an old man. Though they met a few times, Sun Chan was always cold towards her, she could tell. So she spoke with gritted teeth.

    She was just casually mentioning it, who knew Yang Yun would shout, grabbing Su Miao��s hand.

    "You actually know that bitch?"

    Su Miao secretly rejoiced, so there��s someone else here upset with Sun Chan?

    Wonderful! Su Miao then feigned fear: "What? You know her too? I was just casually saying..."

    "Stop lying! I know you��re not making this up."

    "Yes, but when did this woman bother you? She��s truly used to unting her power, relying on having a leader boyfriend, bullying everyone. If she bes a general��s wife one day, won��t she crush us honest people?" Su Miao sneered.

 Chapter 213 Deliberate Flattery

    <h4>Chapter 213: Chapter 213 Deliberate ttery</h4>

    Yang Yun snorted, throwing things on the table to the side: "I got conned by that woman; now my dad won��t even talk to me properly! Didn��t you notice just now?"

    "Hmph, I know what kind of person she is! She never considers anyone else, but this time she��s messed with you, it��s really a bit too overconfident." Su Miao said.

    Yang Yun has a bossy personality but not much social awareness. She was happy to meet someone who thought like her, the enemy of my enemy is a friend after all, so she bore no ill will towards Su Miao, pulling her aside to talk about the previous incident, naturally concealing some details.

    Su Miao, being very clever, understood the situation clearly, thinking that this woman is quite foolish. If you want to ruin someone, do you really need to investigate thoroughly? Just spread these rumors, and Sun Chan will never be able to raise her head again.

    Gu Junming��s work would definitely be affected.

    Furthermore, Gu Junming and Sun Chan can��t prove their innocence. After all, it��s being spread quietly! Could they go and confront their superiors? Wouldn��t that look like they��re guilty?

    However, Yang Yun actually went to verify the situation with someone, which just gave Sun Chan a chance to exin? Instead of tarnishing her reputation, you helped her escape damage to her name, aren��t you unlucky?

    But Sun Chan is indeed not easy to deal with. She would really sacrifice everything! If it came to a real fight, this fool Yang Yun wouldn��t stand a chance. Su Miao��s head was filled with random thoughts, but outwardly she agreed with Yang Yun to curse Sun Chan.

    "So young yet full of schemes. Really not a good person."

    Yang Yun sneered: "You��re saying these two have been dating for so long, could she really be a pure woman? And you said she had a boyfriend before; I can��t believe that."

    "Yes, it seems it wasn��t just one. Her adoptive mother found her a fianc��, it was supposed to be fine, but upon meeting Gu Junming, of course, she wasn��t willing. As for whether she��s innocent, that��s not certain because you know money can make anything happen now! Give a doctor a bribe, won��t they say whatever you want them to say? Besides, most of the leaders at the time sided with Gu Junming. You all miscalcted." She said,ughing and pushing Yang Yun��s shoulder.

    Yang Yun mmed the table: "That wicked woman! We were deceived! I��m going to find her now!"

    "What��s the point of going to her now? It��s already decided; you didn��t object then, now it��s no use saying anything, don��t you think?" Su Miao held Yang Yun back.

    Yang Yun frowned: "Are we supposed to let that bitch enjoy her triumph?"

    "Find an opportunityter; after all, your status is far higher than hers, what is there to fear. As long as you keep an eye on her, you��ll definitely catch something." Su Miao replied.

    Yang Yun nodded, ncing at Su Miao: "You really understand the situation well."

    "I was foolish before too, getting plotted against. Whenever people see someone with a background, they swarm, only I couldn��t be bothered with ttery, so I was looked down upon. Initially, Gu Junming and I were from the same hometown; we knew each other for years, and got along quite well... but forget it, I can��tpare to Sun Chan��s shrewdness, youth, and beauty. She��s really got the skill to seduce." The implication seemed to be that without Sun Chan, she could have been with Gu Junming.

    Yang Yun snorted: "Useless! How could you lose to such a bitch. Gu Junming isn��t good either! Fickle thing."

    Su Miao stood there feeling aggrieved, her eyes reddened.

    Yang Yun saw that and felt pleased. She initially had Yang Zhen by her side, who always supported her, but since the photo tearing incident, Yang Zhen hadn��te around. Calls to invite her over went unanswered. She now had a new follower, which was satisfying.

    "Don��t worry, my dad arranged your work, just do it well. If anything happens, just tell my dad and let him take care of you. I won��t let you suffer." Yang Yun reassured.

    "Mm." Su Miao smiled shyly: "Thank you!"

    "Alright, go downstairs now!"

    Su Miao quickly agreed and followed Yang Yun downstairs, seeing how quickly their rtionship had improved, Zhao Yingjun thought, well it��s Su Miao who has the ability, while Father Yang was pleased too, as his daughter had been wronged for some time, having a friend wasn��t bad.

    They had a meal together; during the meal, Su Miao subtly stirred conversation with Father Yang, asionally picking up dishes, speaking, and catching his attention with cute expressions. Father Yang didn��t think much of it, only feeling that the girl was sensible.

    Meanwhile, Zhao Yingjun felt it was deliberate ttery, but not suspicious about anything else. At nearly fifty years of age, what��s there to worry about? After the meal, Yang Yun wanted to keep Su Miao for more chatting. Su Miao certainly kept ttering her.

    Yet it was Su Miao herself who decided to leave: "Let��se back another day."

    "Alright,e over when you have free time. I��ll take you around; I have a car at home." Yang Yun said.

    Su Miao felt envious but smiled: "That��s nice."

    Father Yang also walked them out.

    Zhao Yingjun asked: "Why didn��t you let me speak earlier?"

    "What��s there worth saying?" Su Miaoughed lightly: "Take it slow, leave a good impression on the first visit. You can��t start by discussing anything; even if not Father Yang, Yang Yun wouldn��t be pleased."

    "True. So we..." He wrapped his arm around Su Miao��s shoulder.

    Su Miaoughed, grabbing his hand: "Go back and take a look; although you��re getting a divorce, the child is innocent. If you don��t handle it well, we��ll have issues being together in the future. It��s best to speak nicely if possible."

    Zhao Yingjun thought it over and agreed, but he still escorted Su Miao back and, once inside, showered her with kisses, touching everywhere he could before leaving.

    Su Miao felt sickened by his vulgar grasp, feeling like she could vomit. After he left, she immediately fetched a bowl of water to wash up, cursing him repeatedly in her mind.

    Damn shameless! Trying to take advantage of me? In your dreams!

    The next day, she moved to the factory dormitory, saying she needed to rush a batch of work, essentially waiting around outside the neighborhood for a chance toe. She had to seize Father Yang soon!

    Meanwhile, Zhao Yingjun��s several attempts to visit were fruitless. He was displeased but not too concerned, believing it was due to work.

    Yang Yun became even more disgusted with Sun Chan and Gu Junming, waiting secretly for an opportunity to make them suffer.

    Unaware that people were cursing her, Sun Chan was busy packing up to go to Shenzhen with Han Dong.

    She told the news, and Guihua was of course delighted: "You go on ahead, we��ll sell whatever fruits you have for you! Take a good look at our country��s beautifulndscapes!"

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 214 Humiliation

    <h4>Chapter 214: Chapter 214 Humiliation</h4>

    Yang Liu said congrattions with her mouth, but in her heart, she was dying of jealousy, they were actually going to Shenzhen; she heard that it��s developing really well over there now!

    Not only is she going, but she��s also going with Han Dong! Yet she herself doesn��t stand a chance at all. But she also knows she isn��t in a position to say anything, and she bowed her head somewhat disappointedly.

    Guihua pulled her and consoled, "There��s nothing special about Shenzhen. Next time, I��ll take you there! For now, just stay here with me and watch the shop."

    Yang Liuughed, "I get it, big sister. Say no more."

    If she insisted on going, she feared even Han Dong would be a hurdle she couldn��t cross. In Han Dong��s heart, she��s not as good as Sun Chan, not even as good as Yang Zhen. How could she make such a request?

    Even though she still liked Han Dong, she understood that it was not going to happen, so she jokingly asked Sun Chan to bring back something nice for her.

    Sun Chan immediately agreed, "Don��t worry, I��ll buy all the good stuff."

    "Make sure you have enough money! Don��t buy randomly, just get what��s profitable," Guihua said.

    "Hm, I have money, Gu Junming gave me a few hundred dors again."

    Besides giving her the bank passbook, Gu Junming also gave her a few months�� allowance, he really is a good man.

    Guihuaughed, "Gu Junming is great, and he isn��t even jealous knowing you��re going with Han Dong."

    Sun Chan blushed, "We��re just business partners, besides, he��s my brother-inw."

    Han Dong and Gu Junming aren��t blood brothers, but they��ve known each other since they were young, and have a deep bond, so how could anything happen?

    She didn��t have much stuff, just one big bag. Inside were some towels, toothbrush, soap, and a few changes of clothes. Back then, trains were slow, so you had to prepare a lot of food.

    The weather was getting hotter, so she didn��t dare bring too much food as it would spoil easily. So she brought some biscuits, high-calorie items, and Sun Chan made some dry pancakes at home, along with some pickled vegetables to eat on the way.

    When Han Doni arrived, he saw a pile of pancakes she had wrapped up, and heughed, "No need for all that trouble! I bought instant noodles."

    Sun Chan was stunned, "There��s already instant noodles now?"

    In a past life, she first saw instant noodles in the vige nearly five yearster, but Han Dong had already tossed over a few packs, Sun Chan picked them up and looked at them, and they were just like in her memories, after all, the city was more advanced.

    "What are you looking at? Eat if you want to."

    Sun Chan smiled awkwardly, "I didn��t want to eat, I was just curious."

    "There��s actually nothing much to eat, just make do with it, we��ll eat well when we get there."

    She sewed all her money into her undergarment; if they encountered thieves, it would be bad, so she couldn��t put her money in the bag. Ready to depart, someone knocked on the door.

    Guihua opened the door andughed, "Here to see Sun Chan off?"

    It was Gu Junming and Yan Kai who came together. Both of them were in casual clothes, holding bags in their hands, who knows why.

    Sun Chan blinked, "What��s with you guys..."

    "Going with you," Yan Kaiughed.

    "Huh?" Everyone was stunned.

    Gu Junmingughed, "The army happens to be buying a few vehicles. Also heading to Shenzhen, so I applied to go over there for a look."

    "Our battalionmander had to exert great effort before headquarters agreed. I tagged along shamelessly. Anyway, taking the train doesn��t cost me money, I might as well see the window of the country." Yan Kaiughed.

    Everyoneughed.

    Han Dongughed, "Big brother, you��re really caring for your wife. I��m really jealous, or is it that you don��t trust me?"

    "Let��s go, enough nonsense." Gu Junming red at Han Dong, picking up Sun Chan��s bag.

    Originally, this matter didn��t need Gu Junming at this level, but since he strongly rmended himself, headquarters couldn��t object, so they agreed.

    Sun Chan was thrilled to see Gu Junming joining, and the group sat on a coach preparing to go to Shenzhen.

    Back then, the trains hadn��t sped up, so the journey was slow and taking the train was a painful experience. Luckily Gu Junming found a connection to get sleeper berths, otherwise it would have been exhausting.

    While queuing to board, they unexpectedly met an acquaintance, Bai Fann.

    Bai Fann had gone to a hospital in the city, but since everyone there knew how she got there, they didn��t really like her. Plus, her medical skills were inadequate, so they didn��t dare let her handle things alone, resulting in everyone at various departments shunning her.

    She was idle every day at work. Coincidentally, there was an opportunity to go to Shenzhen for inspection, so Bai Fann was sent.

    Bai Fann knew she was being sent away and was filled with anger, recently Wang Hu hadn��t called her once, and her inws didn��te to see her, she��s lived in misery, and now seeing Sun Chan and Gu Junming still together, so affectionate, made her intolerable.

    Wasn��t it these two who made her life so miserable?

    She sneered, "Really a harmonious couple. Afraid of being found out for their affair here, they ran far away together. Shamelessly pretending to be virtuous; a dishonorable person, yet pretending to prove their innocence, truly despicable."

    Gu Junming frowned; he originally disliked arguing with women, but Bai Fann��s words were indeed harsh.

    Sun Chan frowned and said, "Watch your mouth! Taking a train isn��t dishonorable? So many men and women traveling together, would you dare to call them dishonorable? Don��t think just because you��re a woman, I won��t dare to hit you!"

    Now she had no tolerance for Bai Fann.

    Bai Fann��s face changed drastically, pointing at her just as she was about to speak, when Han Dongughed, "Oh, isn��t this Doctor Bai? Here to spread gossip again? You know, you��re married now, yet still clinging to Gu Junming, always bouncing around in front of him. Meeting and arguing with his girlfriend, is it fun?"

    "When have I ever clung to Gu Junming?" Bai Fann said through gritted teeth, "I wouldn��t even consider him!"

    "Not considering is best! Wang Hu and Gu Junming have such a good rtionship, it wouldn��t be right if you��re trying to cheat on him, would it? Your jealousy of others might reach Wang Hu, and that reputation won��t sound good."

    Bai Fann was extremely angry, but didn��t dare be too rude, Han Dong was a nobody, but his mother is Tian Jinhua! She��s a leader at the hospital she��s in, one wrong word and she could be in trouble.

    Bai Fann snorted from her nose, "I was just thinking about the past incident, wanting to remind you, not trying to make trouble. You��re not married yet, staying so close together, not afraid of mistakes? Gu Junming, I��ve been your friend for many years, I��m just thinking of you."

    Gu Junming gave Bai Fann a cold look, "Don��t bother with me, stay away, that��s best for me."

    Yan Kai couldn��t hold back augh, Gu Junming really had a cold way of speaking.

 Chapter 215 On the Road

    <h4>Chapter 215: Chapter 215 On the Road</h4>

    "Gu Junming! You wererades with Wang Hu, and this is how you treat me?"

    "It��s not because of Wang Hu. My brother would have hit you long ago. How could he have tolerated you until today? Bai Fann, we��re all men and women should maintain distance from each other. You don��t n to be Pan Jinlian, so why are you so close to us? Isn��t Wang Hu enough for you? Stand aside!"

    Everyone aroundughed, and Bai Fann was so angry that tears started streaming down her face. She red fiercely at Sun Chan.

    Sun Chan looked at her calmly,pletely unfazed by her angry re: "Can��t outtalk others, so you re at me? Bully the weak but fear the strong? I don��t understand. If you dislike Gu Junming, why do you keep causing trouble for me?"

    "I won��t waste my time bickering with you!" Bai Fann said, trembling with anger, and stormed off. As she walked away, she wiped her tears, thinking, all this humiliation was caused by them!

    When she boarded the train, Bai Fann looked around, relieved that she wasn��t in the samepartment as them, but couldn��t stop crying. It was truly suffocating!

    When did Gu Junming be an enemy to her? Her life was a mess, her marriage might not survive, while Sun Chan was getting better and better. A vige girl who didn��t graduate elementary school, a despicable woman who didn��t even clean behind her ears, acting so shamelessly!

    Gu Junming showed utter indifference to her misfortune and distress! Bai Fann felt like crying whenever she thought of it.

    On the ground-level shop was a man, in his twenties, somewhat good-looking, who approached Bai Fann when he saw her alone.

    "Are you heading to Shenzhen too? We��ll be on the same journey."

    Bai Fann didn��t bother responding and turned away to lie down. The man smiled, unbothered, knowing the journey was long. He��d take his time.

    Sun Chan and the three others boarded the train, found their seats, andy down. Sun Chan had the lower bunk, Gu Junming was above, Han Dong and Yan Kai were across. As it was evening, they exchanged a few words and then started sleeping.

    In a daze, Sun Chan felt her arm itch. Waking up, she saw a redness on her arm, probably because the bedding was damp. She sat up and ced a nket she brought over it.

    Gu Junming peeked over, "What��s wrong?"

    Sun Chan waved her hand, whispering, "I��m fine. Go back to sleep."

    "Call me if you need anything."

    Sun Chan nodded. Lying on the train, she felt an indescribable happiness. After being reborn for a year, despite being surrounded by bad people, there were more good ones. She would be alright.

    The cabin was stuffy, fearing the food she brought would spoil, so Sun Chan divided it among them the next day, urging them to eat quickly. The four of them ate heartily, enjoying the pancakes filled with spicy pickles, which tasted great.

    Sun Chan worked on her homework while Gu Junming helped solve a problem. If they couldn��t figure something out, they asked Yan Kai, who also studied well.

    Han Dong wasn��t interested in studies and wandered around. Passing through Bai Fann��spartment, he saw a man chatting with Bai Fann. Although Bai Fann was cold, the man was quite attentive, seemingly stuffing a can into Bai Fann��s hands.

    Seeing Bai Fann subtly ept it, Han Dong smirked coldly. This woman isn��t good. Wang Hu married a spendthrift. A can could make her so responsive, showing how starved she was for affection?

    Upon returning, he didn��t mention this, assuming it was an attempt at an affair.

    Yan Kai, however, mentioned his cousin and Gu Juntao during a casual chat.

    "Wang Guihua insists his son bring his wife to live with them, and my cousin really has a headache. They only moved in a few days ago and started arguing. My cousin��s eyes are red, clearly aggrieved. I asked her, but she didn��t dare say. Gu Juntao mentioned it, but I��m an outsider, what can I say?"

    Gu Junming frowned, "They��ve moved in already? I haven��t been home for the past few days. What happened?"

    "It��s just trivial matters. I think you and your wife should be cautious too."

    Sun Chan��s cheeks flushed, secretly worrying for Yang Hongying.

    Apparently, after Yang Hongying and Gu Juntao moved in, Wang Guihua sent the maid home due to health issues, leaving Yang Hongying to do all the housework, cooking, andundry, entirely managing the small vi, exhausting her daily.

    Wang Guihua not only didn��t help but criticized, saying the dishes were either salty or tasteless, clothes weren��t clean.

    Yang Hongying didn��t dare tell her husband, but one day, Gu Juntao returned early and saw his mother berating Yang Hongying in the kitchen. That��s when he realized she was being mistreated. He strode in, pulling the tearful Yang Hongying outside without a word.

    Wang Guihua angrily blocked them, "What are you doing? I didn��t say anything, just mentioned how to scrape fish scales, and she cries, making me look like an evil mother-inw!"

    "You really are a venomous mother-inw!" Gu Juntao frowned, "I love Yang Hongying. I married her for joy, not to be your servant. She doesn��t do chores at her home, so why should she be humiliated here? Did I marry a maid for you?"

    "What are you saying!" Wang Guihua cried out, "I��m only thinking of her improvement. If she can��t handle household chores, won��t it be the same when you live independently?"

    "Do you do household chores? You��ve done nothing and lived in luxury your whole life. Despite not knowing chores, you force your daughter-inw to be perfect. My wife may not match the maid��s standards, but our small household is perfectly fine. That��s more than good enough!"

    Wang Guihua trembled with anger.

    Yang Hongying quickly held Gu Juntao back, "Stop it, Mom means well. Don��t say anymore."

    "Hush!" Wang Guihua pointed at Yang Hongying, "Don��t say nice things here! You��re the one stirring behind the scenes, or why would my son treat me like this?"

    "Enough... Yang Hongying, pack your things, we��re leaving!" Gu Juntao was infuriated, turning and leaving directly.

    Wang Guihua sat on the sofa crying. Yang Hongying felt wronged too and sat crying but didn��t dare leave.

    Gu Juntao tried to take Yang Hongying away, but Wang Guihua threatened if they left, she��d no longer live.

    While themotion was unfolding, Yan Kai and Gu Zishan returned together. Seeing the mess inside, Yan Kai, despite feeling sorry for his sister, could only mildly reprimand Yang Hongying.

    Gu Juntao then exploded in anger and left dragging Yang Hongying away.

    "And then?"

    Yan Kai said, "Then Gu Zishan had a huge argument with Wang Guihua and packed up to leave as well."

    Leaving Wang Guihua alone in the vi to stew. Wang Guihua went to the military base to have a fit at Gu Zishan, but no one paid any heed.

    Sun Chan furrowed her brow, "So they aren��t living there anymore? I��m worried Wang Guihua won��t let this go easily."

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    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 216: Painful Lesson

    <h4>Chapter 216: Chapter 216: Painful Lesson</h4>

    Yan Kai frowned, "Why still stay there? If she continues, Yang Hongying will be bullied to death. It��s better to leave. I��m not saying anything bad about Wang Guihua in front of you, but since she doesn��t oppose the two being together anymore, why keep tormenting the child? What is the reason?"

    He��s been unable to tolerate Wang Guihua for a while now. Is she really treating her son like a treasure? If it weren��t for Gu Junming, his words would be harsher.

    Han Dong chuckled, "Exactly, if my wife were bullied by my mom, I��d be heartbroken too."

    Gu Junming nced at Han Dong, thinking to himself, "Are you married? Don��t seem like it to me. Maybe when you��re fifty."

    At this moment, Sun Chan spoke, "What exactly does Wang Guihua find unsatisfactory about this daughter-inw? Just because she��s been married before? I think she��s great, she��s beautiful, and truly loves Gu Juntao."

    "For her, Yang Hongying having been married before is like an unforgivable sin, an indelible stain. No matter what she does, she can��t be satisfied." Yan Kai sneered.

    "Fortunately, I��m not married to her son, so she can��t say much. But Gu Juntao is doing really well now, standing up for his wife."

    Yan Kai said, "Right! Initially, I was worried about Gu Juntao and my sister, given their young age and with a mother like that, but now seeing how the two of them get along puts me at ease. As long as the husband loves her, everything��s fine."

    "You understand quite well, yet I haven��t seen you find a girlfriend," Han Dong remarked.

    Gu Junmingughed, "Do you want us to find you one? There are quite a few female instructors in the army, and military doctors are not bad either."

    Yan Kai hurriedly said, "Speaking of which, Bai Fannes to mind. Before marriage, she seemed normal enough, just a bit arrogant. Who would have thought she��d be so strange after marriage? I can��t handle that; I want to live a few more years."

    Everyoneughed.

    The trip turned out to be quite easy and rxed.

    At first, Bai Fann ignored that man, but over time, as the man persisted, she could speak a few words.

    The man looked quite good and was caring. His words were charming; he brought her meals twice, and train food is expensive. No matter how coldly she spoke, he never got angry.

    Bai Fann gradually became satisfied with him and regained the feeling of being pursued as she was before.

    When it was time to get off the train, the man offered to help carry her luggage.

    Bai Fann smiled, "Thanks a lot, I��ll just take a taxi, and it��ll only be a little while."

    As she said this, the man smiled and said, "No need for formalities. Taxis are expensive. My friend is picking me up; we can drop you off along the way, don��t be so polite."

    Bai Fann hesitated but agreed. This person seemed to be well-educated and certainly not a bad guy.

    The man handed Bai Fann a bottle of water, "Have some first, I��ll go find my friend."

    Bai Fann took it without suspecting anything and drank it directly.

    Before long, the man helped the slightly dizzy Bai Fann onto the car and drove away.

    When Bai Fann woke up, she found herself naked in bed. The surroundings were rundown; the house was small. Just reaching up, she could touch the ceiling above. It was stuffy and smelled so bad Bai Fann was about to retch.

    She turned her head and saw a middle-aged stranger sprawled nearby, with a tiger tattoo on his body.

    Bai Fann��s mind buzzed, and her blood seemed frozen. She quickly reacted, shivering, as she grabbed her clothes and scrambled to dress. Her head throbbed, though she didn��t know exactly what had happened, she had guessed: she had been drugged and conned.

    At that moment, the person on the bed woke up, chuckled, "You��re Yuan Bing��s woman, right?" speaking in a northern ent.

    "I don��t know Yuan Bing. Who are you?" Bai Fann��s voice trembled.

    "How can you not know him? You two had such a good chat on the train, didn��t you? Last night, the three of us slept together. You were very open; didn��t we have a great time?" The manughed as he put on his pants.

    Bai Fann covered her ears and screamed. Never in her wildest dreams did she expect to encounter something like this! That person on the train turned out to be... a beast...

    Grinding her teeth, she shouted, "I��ll sue you!"

    "Are you kidding? Do you think you can get out?" The man grabbed Bai Fann��s arm and forcefully threw her onto the bed, causing her bones to feel like they were snapping. As she turned to look at him, she was struck twice by a belt.

    "Ahhh! What are you doing?"

    "Doing what? Starting tomorrow, you��ll be entertaining guests! Don��t worry, as long as you do well, we promise to treat you nicely!"

    Never had Bai Fann imagined encountering something like this, of course, she didn��t agree. But the man��s belt was hitting hard. Before long, her skin was torn and bleeding, yet she still refused.

    She red at him with hatred, "If you treat me like this, none of you will survive!"

    The man snorted andshed out again, "What do I care about who you are! Far from the emperor��s reach, whether you agree or not, you have no choice! You��ll never leave here in this lifetime!"

    Bai Fann felt utterly humiliated and vengeful, cursing her stupidity. How could she, an adult, be tricked like this!

    The man cursed with many obscenities as he whipped her with the belt.

    Bai Fann could only pretend to agree.

    The man smiled smugly, "That��s more like it. Though you��re not young anymore, you��re good-looking. Later, I��ll have someone properly train you. Serve the men well!"

    Bai Fann bit her lip until it bled, without even noticing. She waited for the man to drink water, and suddenly dashed towards the window ledge. As the man shouted, she climbed up and pushed open the window. The man cursed as he reached to catch her, but Bai Fann ignored him, jumping straight out!

    "Damn! It��s the fourth floor, are you trying to cause trouble?" The man rushed to the window ledge and looked down.

    Thankfully, Bai Fannnded on a fruit stand below, cushioning her fall before hitting the ground, but her arm was still snapped. She screamed painfully, coughing up blood.

    Such a sight terrified the people around. A person fell from the building, barely clothed, covered in bruises and whip marks��who wouldn��t be scared!

    Bai Fann cried out, "There��s a criminal! Help me!"

    The man, seeing her fierceness, dared not linger and fled quickly.

    Bai Fann was taken to the hospital for rescue. She felt humiliated that she, a university graduate, had been deceived like this. If people found out, how could she face them!

 Chapter 217 Bai Fanglan Wants to Reform

    <h4>Chapter 217: Chapter 217 Bai Fann Wants to Reform</h4>

    So I didn��t dare to tell the truth, only saying I had gotten lost. When asking for directions, they tried to assault me, but I managed to escape.

    The leader here rushed over to check on me. They asked if I wanted to file a report, but Bai Fann frantically refused.

    "Forget it! I won��t be staying here for long anyway. If word gets out, my husband won��t... he won��t be happy."

    At that time, things were quite conservative, and encountering such incidents inevitably led to suspicion, so the leader understood.

    Bai Fann faced this severe situation, suffering a fracture, and needed hospitalization.

    The tasks arranged by the unit naturally couldn��t bepleted; the hospital had to assign someone else for the business trip, leaving them quite dissatisfied with her.

    After leaving the train station and catching a taxi, it took no time to arrive. How could this happen in broad daylight? But such words couldn��t be said, so only somefort was offered.

    In Shenzhen, Bai Fann didn��t have much chance to enjoy the scenery, spending each day in the hospital. She secretly purchased and consumed post-exposure contraceptive pills and quietly took a blood test. Now she could only hope the other party had no disease; otherwise, her life would be ruined.

    Now she didn��t have the energy to resent Sun Chan and others, only praying that nothing happened to her, and she became much morepliant.

    Regret surged in her heart. Why did things turn out this way with Gu Junming and others? If everyone hade and left together, nothing would have happened. But now things were like this: work was unsessful, her husband wanted a divorce, even grandfather was indifferent to her.

    Now, this incident urred, with her being... by two men.

    Bai Fanny there, tears streaming down.

    Once recovered, she went back to the north, leaving this nightmare of a city.

    All she wanted now was to find Wang Hu. Having gone through this, she truly matured, realizing no one owed her anything, and no one was obliged to treat her well unconditionally.

    She didn��t dare to tell anyone about this incident. Bai Fann finally matured, but the price was too heavy. She didn��t know the road ahead would be even harder, with this event causing a severe and irreparable impact.

    She took a car to Beijing, called Wang Hu to apologize, tears streaming: "I��m really sorry. I know it��s my fault! Injured, hospitalized in Shenzhen for a month, I missed you every day. Please give me onest chance! I promise to be a virtuous wife and mother!"

    Wang Hu wasn��t a hard-hearted person, and since love and marriage had a very limited significance in his life, being with anyone was the same. So upon hearing his usually tough and proud wife say this, he had nothing else to say, agreeing to her request, and they stopped discussing separation or divorce.

    Bai Fann went to where Wang Hu was studying. Seeing his wife so emaciated and haggard, wearing clothes that didn��t seem her own, he sighed and went over tofort her.

    Bai Fann embraced Wang Hu, sobbing: "I was wrong! I was really wrong. Please forgive me!"

    I put a green hat on you, but I really didn��t mean it. I will make it up to you!

    Wang Hu sighed deeply but finally forgave her, taking her to stay at the guesthouse for a day.

    He had no intention of touching her, but Bai Fann wouldn��t let him go, constantly kissing him, and provoking him.

    She was truly scared! Her period hadn��te yet, and even though she took the pill, it wasn��t 100% effective. If she really got pregnant, she couldn��t afford an abortion; she��d already had one miscarriage, which was too harmful. So she had no other choice.

    Wang Hu also felt his wife��s actions were out of guilt, so he turned over and pinned her down. Well, if it��s only as constion.

    Neither of them had much enthusiasm, and it was over in a quarter of an hour.

    Yet Bai Fann was content, holding her husband tightly, trembling all over.

    "I��m sorry, Wang Hu."

    "It��s okay, just sleep." Wang Hu patted her shoulder.

    Yao DianDian knew Wang Hu and his wife went out to stay together, pouting, feeling unhappy. She liked him, but what could she do? She didn��t want to be the third wheel, but it seemed she had no chance? Yet unwillingly, she continued to secretly admire him from afar.

    Bai Fann returned to the Wang Family and started learning household chores, her attitude towards her inws remarkably improved, aplete change from before.

    Mrs. Wang found it strange but considered it a genuine awakening, so didn��tment much.

    Father Wang was naturally happy, Bai Fann was nowpletely obedient. If his son returned and they had another child, it would be perfect.

    Bringing the timeline back, Sun Chan and the others had no idea Bai Fann encountered such misfortune. Exiting the train station, they headed to nearby lodgings.

    Because of Gu Junming and Yan Kai, Sun Chan stayed at the military guest house too. The environment was nice, and most importantly, very cheap, which made Sun Chan very happy.

    Han Dong also chuckled: "Thanks for the favor! Otherwise, we��d have spent much more."

    "It��s not like you��recking money."

    "I may notck money, but who doesn��t want to save? Excess money can bite, can��t it? Let��s pack up; we��ll go shoppingter."

    Gu Junming and Yan Kai went to handle official matters, suggesting dinner together.

    Han Dong looked at Sun Chan: "You don��t look well. Why not rest for a while? I��ll go scout the wholesale areas."

    Sun Chan naturally wouldn��t let her go alone and decided to go along, wanting to see what interesting clothes were avable.

    "I��m not tired; I basically just slept on the train."

    "Alright, let��s go!"

    They went to a ce called East Gate, filled with clothing wholesale stalls, many vendors bustling around. It was Sun Chan��s first time seeing so many clothes, dazzling her. The variety was vast, the styles abundant, and everyone wore trendy clothes suitable for the hot weather, usually in shorts and tees, so revealing Sun Chan felt a bit embarrassed.

    She arrived wearing a jacket, fortunately taking it off before leaving, now dressed in a water-red shirt and ck trousers, feeling too in.

    People crowded everywhere, bustling and lively, with very inexpensive clothes, some as low as tens of yuan for a big sack, letting you pick whatever you wanted. Everything was avable.

    People from various ces came to buy, even foreigners.

    Besides clothes, they sold shoes, bags, and all kinds of essories. Sun Chan��s eyes couldn��t take it all in, overwhelmed with excitement. Being a girl, she loved beauty, as everyone does, and adored it all.

    Han Dong spotted some T-shirts with cartoon designs: "These are cheap, let��s buy a few."

    "Okay." Sun Chan and Han Dong squatted down, picking out a pile of clothes, made from cotton, veryfortable, and economically priced, three pieces for five yuan. Han Dong also bought a skirt, water-blue with pearl-like buttons, quite pretty.

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 Chapter 218 Stunning

    <h4>Chapter 218: Chapter 218 Stunning</h4>

    Sun Chan said, "Just buying one?"

    Han Dong flicked the cigarette in his mouth in front of Sun Chan and smiled, "Put it on and take a look!"

    Sun Chanughed, "Don��t be ridiculous. I��ll wear what I have on. This dress is too expensive, and after we get this dress, it��s hard to sell. Most people can��t fit this size."

    This dress is so small that few people can wear it.

    "What��s the fuss? I��m letting you wear it alone, so just wear it properly. Your other outfit looks really hot, it��s ufortable just seeing it! Go on, go on, I��ll wait here!"

    Ignoring her protests, he pushed Sun Chan into a small room inside, where there was no dressing area, just a makeshift room, and she changed inside.

    Han Dong selected some skirts with simpler colors. After all, the north is more conservative than here, and it��s risky to buy colors that are too bright or skirts that are too short. These skirts were also not expensive, so he asked the boss for a big bag and loaded in whatever looked good, all priced at a few bucks each.

    As Han Dong was packing, Sun Chan emerged from inside.

    Seeing her, Han Dong was instantly stunned; standing before him, Sun Chan was as radiant as a flower. She had never worn such sleeveless dresses before, her corbone was delicate, her slender waist was ented with a yellow leather belt. The dress extended just to the knees, the hem hadce patterns and was adorned with tiny white beads, looking very beautiful.

    Sun Chan��s hair was tied in a ponytail, making her look neat and pretty, plus she was a few shades fairer than the surrounding girls, her skin was fine, her eyes like spring water, standing out like a flower. Han Dong was dazed, momentarily unable to respond,ter thinking of himself as foolish. What was happening?

    He had seen many beautiful women, and yet acted this way; it was truly embarrassing.

    The bossughed, "Really looks good! But the shoes aren��t right, change into these! I��ll gift them to you!"

    They were tasseled sandals, not with high heels, but even so, they were the first high-heeled shoes Sun Chan had worn in her life. Standing there, she truly caught the attention of many people.

    Han Dong said, "With a look this good, you should buy lots of clothes and dress up beautifully every day when you go out."

    Sun Chanughed, "I do business, it��s all messy and dirty environment, how can I work if I dress so nice? Let me change back."

    "No need!" Han Dong held her back, "No need, there��s nothing much left, take the clothes out."

    Sun Chan smiled and listened to him, since her current outfit was indeed too warm.

    Han Dong and Sun Chan also bought some shoes and other clothes, and even bought some underwear, the underwear here was quite pretty, with many styles, not something found up north.

    Sun Chan bought a variety in different sizes, with bows,ce edges, and in various colors. She paid for these herself.

    Han Dong wasn��t interested in these and didn��t find it convenient to look on, instead he bought quite a few razors.

    They bought many things, enough for two or threerge bags, very heavy. The two struggled to carry them outside, barely able to take a step. Han Dong hailed a cab to put them inside, but didn��t take them back directly, instead sent them to the post office to ship them back.

    Leaning against one side, Han Dong watched Sun Chan fill out a form, "We��re partners here, we��ll split the earnings fifty-fifty when the timees."

    Sun Chanughed, "This time you led me, you should take more. I��ll just take a little."

    "No need to be polite, I still have to set up a fruit stand. I can��t always follow you selling clothes, being a man buying clothes, probably makes girls feel shy to buy. We work differently, so splitting equally is fine."

    Sun Chan thought about it and agreed.

    On their way back, they bought some food and returned to the guesthouse.

    At that time, Gu Junming and Yan Kai hadn��t returned yet, Sun Chan said, "I��ll go get some water, let��s wash up."

    "Alright. But I��ll go get the water. You rest." Han Dong took the basin and went out.

    Sun Chan sat there, originally wanting to change clothes, but while touching the hem of the dress, she hesitated for a moment and didn��t take it off. This dress was very nice; it would be great if Gu Junming could see it.

    When Han Dong closed the door with the basin, he saw her leaning by the bed, head down, ying with the small beads on the dress. The sunset light spilled over her delicate face, her skin almost transparent.

    Han Dong of course knew that her affections weren��t for him, yet he couldn��t control his heart. He sighed, knocked his head lightly, and turned away.

    Han Dong and Yan Kai returned with a lot of food, all unique snacks from this ce. Pigeon, intestine noodles, radish cake.

    They bought plenty, enough for four people.

    Seeing Sun Chan, both were also quite impressed, Yan Kai didn��t think much, just felt that this young woman was bing more and more beautiful.

    But Gu Junming was clearly transfixed.

    So much so that Yan Kai coughed up, "Can you not? We��re all here, you��re being too obvious!"

    Gu Junming awkwardly replied, "Wash your hands, let��s eat, I��m really hungry."

    Han Dongughed, "After eating I��ll be leaving."

    "So early? Why the rush?"

    "My mother has been worried, said she found me another matchmaking candidate. You all stay a few more days, I have to go." He lied smoothly, not wanting to stay any longer. Watching a woman he liked but couldn��t have made him very ufortable.

    Gu Junming smiled and said, "You shouldn��t mess with girls if you��re not settled yet."

    "Got it. Don��t mention me." He dug into the intestine noodles, then chuckled and said, "This is tasty, let��s eat!"

    Sun Chan tried some and thought it was quite delicious, "Southern food is also quite good."

    "Tomorrow I��ll take you out. Isn��t it a bit dull here?" Gu Junming smiled.

    Yan Kai said, "Count me in, I��m bored too. Even if I��m just a third wheel, I��m willing to light up the path for you."

    Everyoneughed, and Sun Chan thought, she initially found Yan Kai serious, but with time, he turned out to be a great speaker, very entertaining.

    After dinner, Han Dong left, bought a train ticket back, andy on the sleeper bed feeling a bit bored, his mind somewhat chaotic, wondering why he fell for someone like this.

    Unattainable and unforgettable, it was painful.

    Forget it, don��t think about it. His gloom lifted when he arrived in Beijing.

    Because a girl got on, looking very charming, Han Dong suddenly perked up.

    The girl was quickly captivated by Han Dong, their emotions ring rapidly.

    Han Dong thought, isn��t this good? Better not think about those things!

    Sun Chan and Gu Junming spent two days in Shenzhen, went to the market, and also visited the zoo.

    Ate lots of delicious food.

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 219: Su Miao Finally Succeeded

    Although Yan Kai said he wanted to stay with them, he was just joking. His father, Mr. Yan, had rtives here, so he went to visit them the next day.

    Yan Kai only joined them at the train station when it was time to go back.

    Yan Kai smiled at Sun Chan and said, "Haven''t seen you for two days, howe you''ve gained weight?"

    Sun Chan''s face turned red as she bit her lip and said, "I''ve been eating too much these days."

    Over the past few days, she had tried all the street food stalls, from wonton noodles, beef brisket noodles, stinky tofu, to all sorts of unknown snacks. She ate everything, including things like double-skin milk and mango coconut. When she was with Gu Junming, she seemed to eat even more. It''s no surprise she gained weight.

    Yan Kaiughed and said, "Look at you all scared. I''m just joking! I can''t even tell you''ve gained weight."

    Gu Junming said, "Even if you''ve gained some weight, it''s okay. Besides, you haven''t gained any. After we get back, you should study hard."

    "Yeah." She had been ying the past two days and hadn''t done much work.

    When Yan Kai got on the train, he called Gu Junming out for a smoke. Once they were outside, he mentioned something: "An aunt I visited works at the hospital and said something happened to Bai Fann."

    Gu Junming was taken aback and frowned slightly: "What do you mean?"

    Yan Kai said, "That aunt said Bai Fann seemed to have been assaulted. She''s still in the hospital now with whip marks on her body."

    Gu Junming was very surprised: "No way? Must be someone with the same name?"

    Bai Fann isn''t a child. How could such a thing happen?

    "No, they said she was on a business trip from the north, and although the woman wouldn''t admit it, the doctors could tell she''d been assaulted. Apparently, she was rescued from a well-known red-light district, which is notorious for... that kind of ce."

    Gu Junming frowned tightly: "Is it someone she met on the train? Didn''t Han Dong say a man was trying to court her?"

    "Probably. Bai Fann is just too naive. It''s a relief she wasn''t sold to the mountains." Ding Kai thought for a moment and then said, "She caused quite some trouble for Sun Chan before. It''s karma."

    Back then, when they caught Zhao Xiuxia''s brother, they insisted it was a female doctor who leaked the information, leading them to make trouble at the sanatorium. She almost got sold to Xiong''er Ridge.

    Gu Junming didn''t want to bring up past issues: "I think we should just pretend we don''t know about this."

    "Okay," Yan Kai said. "I thought the same. Although we don''t like her, we shouldn''t kick her while she''s down. Hopefully, she''ll learn something from this experience."

    Gu Junming didn''t say anything. Knowing Bai Fann for so many years, he never expected her to encounter something like this. But he couldn''t say he felt any sorrow for her. The two decided to keep this matter a secret.

    Sun Chan was also exhausted and slept through the journey, taking naps along the way.

    asionally, she''d walk out and look at the scenery through the window. The sight of the sprawling rapeseed fields, with their bright yellow, lifted her spirits.

    She smiled at Gu Junming and said, "Let''s travel sometime, I love looking at scenery like this."

    "Sure, I''ll take you around when I have time," Gu Junming said, holding Sun Chan''s hand.

    As soon as the three of them arrived in X City, they saw a military vehiclee to pick them up. Spotting their silhouettes, a young soldier got out, ran over with a serious face, saluted, and greeted them.

    Yan Kai said, "What''s going on?"

    "Well, something happened."

    "What is it?"

    "Actually, while you were away, someone entered the camp."

    Yan Kai suddenly became tense: "Who was it? Could someone have snuck in to steal things?"

    "No!" The young soldier''s face was filled with embarrassment: "Someone was found on the bed in the office with a woman... It happened this morning. The higher-ups are already here."

    "Who is it?"

    "It''s Yang Xiong''s son."

    Gu Junming frowned so much that his eyebrows were almost twisted into a knot. What kind of situation is this!

    "Is this guy crazy? Taking his wife to fool around?" Yan Kai said.

    "Not his wife! The instructor." The man waved his hands in panic: "It''s with another woman."

    This was even more serious. If it had been with his wife, it could only be dismissed as unregted behavior. But with another woman? What on earth is going on!

    This is an unforgivable mistake!

    ording to what the young soldier said,st night, when a soldier was checking the rooms, he discovered that a data room on the first floor still had a light on, which seemed very suspicious. This ce was where some important documents were stored.

    So, they quietly called people to surround the area, pushed the door open, and went inside. They found Father Yang sleeping soundly on the bed.

    Next to him was a girl sleeping soundly as well. She was hugging his neck tightly, and neither of them was wearing clothes.

    The soldiers were all shocked! They frantically woke the people up.

    Father Yang was confused, looking at himself without clothes, with a girl beside him, and immediately called out.

    The girl beside him cried and screamed, trying to kill herself, but had to be restrained.

    Gu Junming and Yan Kai looked grim. At such an age, and yet doing something like this!

    The young soldier said, "Mrs. Yang already knows and is rushing back from the provincial city. Mr. Yang is already there. The higher-ups knew you''d be back today, so they sent me to pick you up."

    "Got it." The two of them had no time to say anything else and quickly headed towards the vehicle. Father Yang wasn''t even part of their forces, yet he came to our camp and brought a woman who wasn''t his wife to fool around, and got caught by the guards?

    This newly established unit became famous overnight, and not because of military achievements but because of something so disgraceful. These two were fuming!

    From the outside guards to those in charge of security, and including Yan Kai and Gu Junming, everyone would certainly face punishment for this, but they still didn''t know what the oue would be.

    When they reached the vehicle, Gu Junming finally remembered Sun Chan.

    He hurriedly turned back and said, "Sorry, I..."

    Sun Chan smiled and waved her hand: "I understand, I''ll take the bus back, so don''t worry."

    "As soon as I''m done, I''lle find you," Gu Junming nodded to her, got in the car, and drove back.

    Yan Kai was both anxious and angry: "How did they get in?"

    "It, it was the soldier in charge who forgot to lock the door."

    Yan Kai was furious, loosening his cor, and said, "Useless! Do you know who that woman is?"

    "Yes, her name is Su Miao, and she kept saying that she, she and Camp Commander Gu are from the same vige."

    Gu Junming was so furious that heughed. This woman had been causing trouble all along. From the moment she made him take her to the city, he knew she was up to no good. Now, she finally managed totch onto a big fish.

 Chapter 220: Hated to Death

    Although Father Yang now holds a sinecure, his conditions are not bad. Coupled with the big name of the Yang Family here, Su Miao is determined to make a move, no matter what. But she really... at her age, she shouldn''t have to settle, yet she''s willing to throw away her dignity for a lifetime of wealth and prosperity.

    However, Gu Junming clearly knows it was Su Miao who set Father Yang up, but he won''t sympathize with Father Yang. If you weren''t alone with her, nothing would have happened.

    Yan Kai frowned and said, "Why bring up Gu Junming for no reason? Just because he''s from the same vige, does that mean you can say anything? Your own affair has nothing to do with Gu Junming, stop talking nonsense!"

    The young soldier quickly said, "Yes, I''m just repeating what she said, but I don''t think she''s a good person either."

    "Forget it, let''s not talk about it now. We''ll discuss it when we get there." Gu Junming fell silent; Su Miao was really getting out of hand.

    At this moment, Father Yang waspletely sober, but he was also stunned.

    He sat there watching the tearful Su Miao, his head throbbing painfully. He could only recall bits and pieces of the night''s events. He remembered meeting Su Miao while out for a walk; she said she wanted to find Yang Yun after work.

    However, Yang Yun was out celebrating a friend''s birthday today and wasn''t home, so Su Miao was about to leave. But then, what happened?

    Su Miao suggested going for a walk, so Father Yang took her for a stroll around the nearby camp. Although he didn''t manage the camp, it was close to home, and no one stopped them out of respect for Yang Xiong.

    Later, Father Yang brought her inside because Su Miao said she needed to use the restroom. But then, it seemed he felt dizzy and was led by her into an unlocked room.

    And so it was that when he woke up, someone had already seen them. But he couldn''t remember ever doing anything with Su Miao! Given the current situation, it really didn''t matter whether anything happened or not.

    The superior arrived and looked at them coldly: "What exactly happened? Were you drunk?"

    Father Yang hurriedly said, "I didn''t drink! I truly don''t know what happened!"

    Su Miao looked at Father Yang''s reaction and sobbed, "I know you me me and resent me, but I don''t regret it. I''ve always admired you. Even if we can''t be together, I won''t regret it. I''m willing to give myself to you."

    Several leaders frowned silently. Father Yang was suddenly exposed. He wasn''t a child; although Su Miao said she wasn''t holding him responsible, this was clearly a strategy to withdraw and then attack. Truly shameless!

    Moreover, he hadn''t drunk any alcohol, so how was he possibly set up? Could it be he was drugged?

    This woman clearly intended to make himpromise. What would happen if the scandal grew, and he didn''t marry her?

    Su Miao knew Father Yang wouldn''t be happy; no one would be happy. But there was no other way. These past few days, Zhao Yingjun had been pressing too hard, even going to the factory to find people.

    Zhao Yingjun also realized something was wrong. Why have you been avoiding me? You''re not some official, just a temporary worker. How can you be so busy that you don''t even have time for a meal? Besides, I heard you frequent the Yang Family. You have time to go there but not to meet me?

    Zhao Yingjun dragged her outside the factory and asked, "Is it because you look down on me? Tell me the truth! I introduced you to a job and helped you meet capable people. So now that I''m not useful, is that it?"

    Su Miao bit her lip and said, "So what if I am! I can just give the house back to you!"

    "Heh, well, no problem, I can get you the job and I can take it away, too. Don''t think that just because you''re close with the Yang Family, everything is stable. I''ll tell everyone how you seduced me, and let''s see which factory would want someone so shameless!"

    Su Miao felt her heart skip a beat. Is he really not going to care about me anymore? She bit her lip, desperately holding his arm and coaxing him for a while, iming she was being threatened by Su Jinxiu, who wouldn''t let her meet with him.

    "She wrote letters to my parents, not allowing me to associate with you. You know what a shrew she is, right? How could I dare meet you? I''m also thinking about our future!"

    Zhao Yingjun shook off Su Miao: "This weekend we meet. If we be a couple and divorce, you won''t need to say sweet nothings anymore. Do as you see fit!" With that, he strode off, giving her no chance to exin.

    Su Miao knew that if she didn''t act quickly, she''d end up as Zhang Yingjun''s mistress.

    Her sort of rtionship with Su Jinxiu meant that even if they got married, her parents would never forgive her, and she''d lose face in the vige. Being with Father Yang would be much better.

    As for Zhao Yingjun''s anger, let him be angry; he couldn''t possibly be a match for the Yang Family.

    These days she hase to understand Father Yang, who doesn''t have a bad temper. She''s young and beautiful, though he might be unhappy initially, but she could easily charm himter on.

    The leader then asked Father Yang, "What are you thinking? With this event, you must take responsibility. Write a discharge report."

    Father Yang despondently ruffled his hair: "I don''t want to be discharged, but I know there''s no other way..."

    Su Miao was taken aback. She just wanted the military to pressure him into marriage, but she didn''t expect the leader would tell him to discharge! What''s the point of being with an old man then?

    Father Yang suddenly stood up: "I, I absolutely cannot be with her! I''ve been framed!"

    "Didn''t you just say that your wife passed away and you would marry me? Why are you denying it now?" Su Miao started to cry.

    Father Yang furiously responded, "When did I ever say my wife passed away! She''s alive and well, working in the provincial city!"

    "You said it! Why did you lie to me?" Su Miao cried even harder, seeming genuinely deceived.

    "I didn''t lie to you, you wretch, you set me up?" Fire zed within Father Yang''s heart.

    When Gu Junming and Ding Kai walked in, they saw Father Yang p Su Miao to the ground. Her slender body rolled a few times on the floor, nose bleeding, hair disheveled, looking utterly miserable, evoking sorrow and tears from onlookers.

    Everyone was shocked, not expecting Father Yang to hit someone!

    Su Miao continued to weep and wail: "How can you treat me like this? Are you denying everything you said before?"

    "I''ll beat you to death!" Father Yang waspletely breaking down, rushing forward to hit her again.

    He was usually aposed person, but this time he truly couldn''t hold back anymore.

    Su Miao didn''t move, thinking, hit me all you want; the more unfortunate you are, the more it benefits me.

 Chapter 221: Who Tricked Whom

    Several leaders hurriedly held onto Father Yang, feeling so angry they ached inside, what a fool!

    Yang Xiong used to be so brave, who would have thought his son turned into an idiot! They understood now they''d been set up, but at this moment, shouldn''t you secretly discuss with the girl how to resolve the matter? Instead of hitting someone! Now, with this p, your justified case has be unjustified, what to do now! A total dimwit!

    One leader saw Gu Junming and immediately said, "Alright, you came just in time! Someone did such a thing at your camp, we can''t say anything, youe and solve it! We can''t meddle in this kind of affair!" An incident over an illicit affair had made a team restless!

    Moreover, Father Yang wasn''t even from their team...

    Yan Kai and Gu Junming walked over, and Su Miao seeing Gu Junming rushed over like flying.

    "Brother Junming! You must help me! We''re from the same vige, you can''t just watch me being bullied for nothing!"

    She learned from Yang Yun''s mouth that Father Yang had conflicts with Gu Junming before, this time seeking help from Gu Junming, she''d definitely get his help!

    Who would''ve thought Gu Junming frowned slightly, mingled in the crowd to dodge, a hint of disdain shing in his eyes.

    Two young soldiers held her arm, stopping her from getting to Gu Junming. Su Miao secretly hated, what''s so great about it!

    Gu Junming said, "We''re just from the same vige, we don''t interact much usually. I don''t know what exactly happened between you two. Rest assured, if he really did something, I won''t engage in favoritism, but on the flip side, if he did nothing, I definitely won''t heed your one-sided words."

    Seeing the chilliness in Gu Junming''s eyes, Su Miao suddenly shivered for some reason, then bit her lip looking at him. In her heart she thought, this damn Gu Junming, doesn''t believe me, does he? Why doesn''t he believe me?

    I''m a girl bullied by others! Being seen by so many people sleeping together with him.

    "Are you trying to help Mr. Yang?"

    "I said, I won''t!" Gu Junming said irritably, "I know you, but to avoid tongues wagging, I won''t meddle in this affair, Yan Kai, you handle it, I''m going to check who exactly was on duty tonight, who was managing the keys? Are they ready not to work?"

    Yan Kai said, "Indeed it should be handled strictly! Who can be let in? Also, the managing soldiers neglected their duties. Many issues have surfaced, we should prepare to hold a meeting, we need to conduct a self-examination too."

    Gu Junming nodded, said a few words to the leaders, and then left. He didn''t even talk to Father Yang, he had nothing to say to this muddled person.

    "Check the body! I didn''t touch her!" Father Yang said.

    Su Miao cried, "Is it necessary to actually do something before being responsible? You touched and kissed, saw the whole body, I even helped you with my hand... what more can you want? I''m really so unfortunate! I said, why didn''t you go to thest step, it turns out you were tricking me, not willing to marry me!"

    People around became petrified, this woman really dares to say anything!

    Father Yang felt humiliated and furious, when had he ever been treated like this, but knew this was self-inflicted, thus hated Su Miao even more!

    The remaining leaders stood up intending to leave, this matter they should handle themselves, too disgusting!

    Just as they stood up, someone broke in again, it was Yang Yun.

    Her eyes zed, charging straight at Su Miao, "You shameless one, you dare seduce my dad!"

    When she returned home, she received a call saying her father was caught, Yang Yun was dumbfounded, and upon hearing it was because her father and Su Miao were caught in such a rtionship at the camp, she felt like she mixed herself, cursed a dirty word furiously, dashed out heading here.

    Yang Yun, having grown up pampered, was now burning with rage, and was incredibly strong, no one stopped her, she knocked someone aside, rushed before Su Miao,nded several ps on Su Miao.

    Su Miao screamed, copsing to the ground, Yang Yun continued tearing clothes, kicking the belly, like a mad shrew tackling her.

    "I wondered why you used to behave so understanding and obediently to me? Turns out you wanted to marry my dad! I knew it, the ones from the countryside are no good! You said you were good, how so disgusting!"

    Su Miao''s face instantly swelled, having been beaten severely earlier, now even more miserable.

    "I''m wronged! I didn''t do anything! It''s your dad... Mr. Yang bullied me, please save me!"

    She pitifully looked toward Father Yang, who was in a mess, his daughter knew, his wife knew, his father would surely know, this matter won''t end well! He had no mood to care about Su Miao''s life or death!

    He irritably nced at Su Miao, "I truly regret, actually inviting a wolf into the house, hereafter I won''t let any rural people into my home, I won''t do good and associate with those lower-ss people!"

    Su Miao felt a heartbreak, he knew I set him up, hates me, doesn''t he?

    Yet now things are like this, she could only bravely face it.

    She bowed her head and cried, "I don''t want you to do anything, since you''ve treated me this way, I find no meaning in living, you first bullied me, then together with your daughter humiliated me, bullied me, what face I have to live! So many saw you holding me, we had spousal rtions, you are heartlessly cruel!" Finishing her words she stood, trying to dash into the wall.

    Gu Junming wasn''t there, Yan Kai hurriedly grabbed Su Miao with people, anyway, she couldn''t be allowed to seek death!

    Everyone hurriedly held her, "You mustn''t do so, anything can be discussed, don''t seek death."

    "Let her die!" Yang Yun sneered, "All she thinks about is wealth and nobility, how can she bear to die! Dad, didn''t you do anything?"

    Father Yang firmly nodded, "I''m sure I''ve done nothing! I was victimized! She gave me a bottle of water. After drinking, I lost consciousness."

    "Fine, let''s go to the hospital for a test!"

    Su Miao shouted, "You''re despicable, it was you who gave me that bottle of water! I drank it too, you made me drink! You want tests, I want tests too, evidently, you wanted to bully me!"

    This really made people speechless.

    Father Yang trembled with anger, "I have no grudge against you, why do you treat me this way!"

    "Why else, isn''t it because our family has power and status?" Yang Yun disdainfully looked at Su Miao, "Even more shameless than Sun Chan!"

    Yan Kai coldly said, "Watch your words! What did Sun Chan do to you, how is this rted to Sun Chan?"

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 222 - 222 Irretrievable

    Even though Gu Junming wasn''t here, I couldn''t let this woman humiliate Sun Chan!

    "Hmph!" Yang Yun moved, but stopped speaking. Then she thought about it: at least Sun Chan and Gu Junming were in love, but this woman? Clearly, the other person didn''t like her, but she clung to him like bark on a tree and refused to let go, insisting on marrying my father even if it meant her death!

    Thinking of this made her even more hateful; she looked up at Su Miao, who smiled mockingly at her, and in a fit of anger, she rushed over and grabbed Su Miao''s neck: "I''ll strangle you! You wretched girl!"

    Su Miao, caught off guard, was pinned down, her neck being choked by Yang Yun. She struggled, but having just taken medicine, her strength hadn''t fully returned, and Yang Yun, who was arrogant and domineering, often bullied others and was very strong, was at full force now. Very quickly, Su Miao''s face turned red and her eyes became swollen.

    Yan Kai shouted, "Yang Yun, let go! Are you trying to kill someone?"

    Father Yang grabbed his daughter''s cor and threw her aside: "Let me! Even if she must die, it should be my doing. I can''t let you be ruined because of me!"

    Yang Yun was thrown to the ground by her father, almost fainting from the pain. Then she saw Father Yang gripping Su Miao''s neck tightly while Su Miao''s hands helplessly iled in struggle.

    "Dad, let me do it! I was the one who let the wolf into the house and spoke to her, so today I''ll finish her off to avenge you!"

    Yan Kai saw the chaos and quickly called for help to separate them, pulling and tugging.

    Su Miaoy on the ground gasping constantly, her fair neck covered in handprints, almost strangled to death!

    Yang Yun was stopped but still wanted to rush over to finish Su Miao. Father Yang''s face was filled with hatred too.

    Su Miao, however, sat quietly, coughing constantly, tears falling continuously.

    Given the situation, I have no choice but to continue. Otherwise, admitting that I''m the one who drugged them, Yang Yun and the others won''t forgive me, Zhao Yingjun won''t spare me, and my parents won''t forgive me either. I can only pretend to be the victim and marry Father Yang.

    Thinking of this, her head lowered, tears fell heavily: "I admit my background is low, with no connections, no one to stand up for me, so when I''m bullied, I don''t dare make a sound. Mr. Yang, when have I ever demanded responsibility from you? Yet you beat, scold, and even want to kill me? Isn''t this a new society where leaders can''t control someone else''s life or death? I won''t ept it!" She wiped her tears and stubbornly looked at Yan Kai.

    "I don''t believe there''s no ce for justice! Either you all kill me together, or I''ll find a ce where I can speak out fairly!"

    Inwardly, Yan Kai thought, thankfully Gu Junming wasn''t entangled with Su Miao! This woman is truly a handful. Knowing what she says is false, yet without evidence, with such strong mental fortitude, she''s too difficult to deal with!

    Yang Yun cursed, calling her a slut, and rushed to hit someone.

    Yan Kai said, "You''re all soldiers! Or family of soldiers, how can you act so recklessly! Restrain her! Who let Yang Yun in? Is this a market where anyone cane in? Take Yang Yun away immediately, and whoever let her in should be confined!"

    The soldiers hurriedly grabbed Yang Yun and led her out, continually struggling, disheveled, looking quite a mess, with her voice somewhat broken: "Let me go, damn Yan Kai, do you know who my grandpa is? Don''t you want to work anymore?"

    But no one paid attention to her. She shouted: "Yan Kai! Are you deliberately opposing me? Aren''t you afraid of my father handling you?"

    Yan Kai sneered at Father Yang: "What''s being said here? If I may say, it''s because you''ve been lenient and indifferent in discipline that today''s disaster could unfold. And now you want to use your position for personal revenge?"

    Father Yang''s face turned very unpleasant, being criticized by someone much younger than himself made him speechless. But lying couldn''t change the reason, so he could only shout at his daughter, "Shut up!"

    Su Miao was pulled up by someone, wiping her tears and looking at Father Yang: "Mr. Yang, you said you liked me, so why hit me? Are you afraid of ruining your reputation?"

    "Shut up!" Father Yang gritted his teeth: "Haven''t you caused me enough trouble?"

    "I''ll kill her!" Yang Yun was already at the door. Upon hearing that, she burned with fury. She grabbed a cactus from the window sill and hurled it at Su Miao.

    Yan Kai shouted for someone to catch Yang Yun, but she had already thrown the pot forward. Everyone watched as it hit Su Miao''s forehead. Bang! The pot shattered, blood poured forth, and she fell to the ground, twitching a few times before going motionless.

    In fact, Su Miao could have dodged it, but thought, without an ident, there''d be no way out, so she decided not to dodge. After a sharp pain, she fell into a pool of blood.

    Everyone froze for a moment, then Yan Kai shouted, "Quickly, what are you doing, get her to the hospital!"

    A few people rushed over to support Su Miao, helping her, where she was struck formed a triangr wound, bleeding non-stop.

    Yang Yun was dumbfounded, she hadn''t expected such a troublesome matter to ensue!

    Could it be that she killed someone?

    Father Yang was also trembling, as if struck by lightning, motionless, and looked shocked.

    Yan Kai loudly called for someone to quickly take her to the hospital. He was really troubled now. If this turned into a big deal, the leaders of this unit would also be in trouble.

    Fortunately, by midnight, Su Miao regained consciousness, but the doctor said there was a scar on her forehead that couldn''t be removed.

    "The young girl hasn''t married yet, has she? This could be troublesome. When fixing her hair, she can use bangs to cover it, but it probably won''t be enough." The doctor left.

    Yang Yun looked at her father, trembling slightly: "Dad! What should I do? If Su Miao sues me, will I go to jail?"

    Father Yang leaned back into the chair, covering his face, "I don''t know what to do..."

    With her face ruined, what choice was there but to marry her?

    Yang Yun cried anxiously: "I was just angry! I didn''t mean to kill her..."

    Yan Kai watched them coldly, silent with pursed lips, thinking: serves them right! Always being so arrogantly domineering.

    But this matter couldn''t be ignored, so Yan Kai went in to discuss countermeasures with her.

    Su Miao''s face was calm, with a bandage wrapped around her head, she looked at Yan Kai: "I have no other demands, I just want Mr. Yang to take responsibility, is that too much? Now my reputation is ruined, my face is destroyed. If he doesn''t take care of me, I only have death left. But before I die, I want to send Yang Yun to jail, and his daughter must pay the price. At worst, we all go down together."

 Chapter 223 - 223 Compromise

    Yan Kai looked at Su Miao: "I know what you''re asking for, but I still want to advise you, have you really thought it through? Is what you''re desperately trying to get now truly happiness? If one day you regret it, no one will sympathize with you."

    Su Miao sneered: "Are you still saying I deliberately framed Mr. Yang? Just because Ie from a vige? Sun Chan is also from a vige, Sun Chan too..."

    "I''ve already said, this has nothing to do with Sun Chan, there''s no need to keep bringing her up," Yan Kai interrupted her impatiently.

    Su Miao sneered, thinking to herself, you''re just trying to please Gu Junming, how despicable! Unfortunately, the person I''m going to marry now is more capable, won''t you still kneel before me?

    She said: "Alright, I won''t mention her anymore. I think everyone is equal. I haven''t done anything bad, and I''m not afraid of your investigation. I''m someone who walks barefoot and doesn''t fear those who wear shoes. Whatever you do to me, I''ll withstand it."

    Both she and Yan Kai understood, how can this thing be investigated? This matter will only get dirtier and messier; the Yang Family is not the kind that can be thoroughly investigated.

    Yan Kai revealed Su Miao''s demands.

    Yang Yun urgently said: "Dad, you can''t agree to it; Mom hasn''t done anything, why do you want to marry her? What about Mom then?"

    Father Yang looked at his daughter, almost wanting to p her to death. If not for her, would he need to do this? But upon reflection, he realized it was his own fault, the root of all trouble; he could only sigh and grab his hair without saying a word.

    After a while, he raised his head: "I agreed; I will soon discuss divorce with Zhao Jieyun."

    "Dad! You can''t divorce Mom..."

    "Shut up! If you don''t divorce, you''ll end up in jail, are you willing?"

    Yang Yun clenched her fists, tears falling continuously. It''s all because of that bitch!

    Seeing his daughter stay silent, Father Yang stood up and staggered out, his face weathered, looking extremely miserable. After going through such an ordeal, he seemed to have aged ten years in an instant.

    Yang Yun could not speak anymore; despite her immaturity, she understood that she''d harmed her father. What to do? Mom was utterly innocent, yet this trouble arose...

    When Su Miao learned that people outside hadpromised, sheughed and leaned against the bed.

    I''ve finally married a powerful figure; from now on, I won''t care about marital harmony, only riches and glory. Dare they not support me? Not give me a good job? Even if they want to divorce me, they have to have a good reason, don''t they?

    She touched her face with her hand; even with a scar, she''s still a beauty in her twenties��who wouldn''t like her? Initially, he wasn''t resistant to me. Take your time; I''m in no rush.

    Meanwhile, Gu Junming dealt with a few soldiers who weren''t working well, demoted two, and transferred the soldier managing the archives directly. The remaining two guarding the entrance were punished with three days of confinement, which immediately tightened everyone''s nerves; they dared not bezy as before.

    He and Yan Kai had a phone conversation about the matter.

    Yan Kaiughed: "Su Miao really seeded in her scheme this time."

    "It''s her own choice; we don''t need to care. I''m going back, you should too."

    The two made arrangements for the next day, and only then did Gu Junming head home, thoroughly exhausted.

    When Sun Chan arrived home, she happened to see Han Dong waiting at the door, surrounded by severalrge bags. The two began sorting out the clothes brought from the south, items that arrived earlier by mail and had reached the train station with her.

    While tidying up, Han Dong asked Sun Chan: "You don''t look well, what''s wrong?"

    "Nothing, Gu Junming mentioned having some business at the troops, and I''m worried he might run into trouble again." She knew he had many enemies, and if anyone plotted against him, it wouldn''t be good.

    Han Dongughed: "Rx, who is my big brother here? Is it so easy to bully him? Let''s hurry up and sort these things!"

    Sun Chan nced at Han Dong, who was radiant with happiness, and his neck had several pink and purple marks; she smiled without saying anything. Are these hickeys? Looks like Han Dong met someone he liked? nning to get married?

    Han Dong was unaware of Sun Chan''s thoughts; the girl was just a random encounter on the train. They had a few entanglements in the city; he gifted her a few gold trinkets, and she walked away cheerfully. Neither asked for the other''s name. How could there be a future? He figured he might never have a definite love in his lifetime. This wasn''t bad either.

    Sun Chan took out a T-shirt and looked at it: "These clothes can be sold on the street, but those remaining suits and dresses probably won''t fetch a good price. The average person won''t spend much money; if we sell them at a counter, it needs a good counter, though not economical."

    "Do you remember Wang Dan?"

    "Of course!" Sun Chanughed: "But it''s been a long time since we contacted each other."

    "When Lin Hongmei called me a few days ago, I asked, Wang Dan just got pregnant, feeling very ufortable, and the doctor advised her to rest quietly; she''s considering getting someone to watch her counter for her. I suggested sending the clothes there to sell."

    Wang Dan rented a counter in an adjacent city''s county. But feeling unwell, the initial three months were unstable, with some bleeding issues, making it impossible for her to manage the stall. Her husband was worried too and wanted to temporarily rent out the counter for some time. Han Dong thought of this.

    "Then we can take turns going there for some time to sell these goods. By the time we''re done, the pregnancy should stabilize, and we can return it to her."

    "Oh, that''s a good idea, but why are you still in touch with Lin Hongmei?" Sun Chan caught the key point.

    Han Dongughed: "I''m not in touch with her; she keeps pestering me. I''mzy about dealing with her, but isn''t this just a chance to find a counter? So, I asked; rest assured, Lin Hongmei has found someone and got married long ago."

    Sun Chan frowned: "Even after getting married, she contacts you? What is that?"

    "Can''t forget old ties, I''m so handsome."

    Sun Chan frowned: "That''s really excessive; it''s unfair to her husband."

    Han Dong thought to himself, I haven''t told you the more excessive part. Lin Hongmei even said over the phone that she wants to have a few more times with Han Dong, iming she''s never forgotten that feeling, her husband is useless, unable to satisfy her at all, and she misses being with Han Dong.

    Of course, he dared not speak of this; if Sun Chan knew, she''d probably vomit and certainly wouldn''t have a good impression of him.

 Chapter 224 - 224 Preparation

    The two of them sorted out the T-shirts one by one, a pile of skirts, and also hung up some pants one by one.

    Because originally these were mailed and just casually rolled up in bags, some of the clothes were full of creases and some had gotten dirty, looking quite unpresentable.

    Sun Chan picked out those dirty clothes, gave them a simple wash, and hung them with small clips on the balcony to dry.

    The ones that were really too wrinkled needed to be ironed t with an electric iron; all this work was done by Sun Chan. Han Dong just helped by sorting the clothes by category on the side.

    "Quite a few of these clothes tend to fade."

    "Yes, exactly. That''s why I mostly chose in colors back then. ck and white can fade, but other clothes can''t. Washing them makes them look too old, and experienced people won''t buy them," Sun Chanughed.

    Han Dong, not being so familiar, had bought quite a few bright-colored clothes and was a bit worried, afraid of losing money.

    Sun Chan quickly picked out a few pieces: "These are synthetic fibers and definitely won''t fade, don''t worry."

    "That''s good."

    There were too many clothes, and after the balcony was full, Sun Chan tied many ropes inside the room and hung the clothes there one by one. Shoes and so on were also all neatly ced in shoeboxes with their sizes and types recorded outside.

    In a short while, the small house was already full. The colorful scene was quite interesting.

    Sun Chan said, "How are we going to transport these clothes over there?"

    "Don''t I have a car? Just cover the clothes with stic bags. When the timees, I''ll stay there permanently and you can go back once a week. I guess these clothes will be sold out in about two months. The remaining small clothes can be sold here; I''ll leave it to you. Where''s a good ce to sell?"

    "I think the early market at the park will be good. Many people sell clothes there. I''ve sold there too," Sun Chanughed.

    "That works, just set the price as you see fit. Anyway, you know the original price, just make sure not to lose too much."

    Sun Chan agreed. She had already calcted the costs, including train tickets and living expenses for their trip to Shenzhen.

    There''s also thebor cost. If it gets too busy and they need to hire staff, that''lle out of the budget. Although the clothing cost wasn''t high, adding these costs meant they couldn''t be sold too cheaply. No wonder even though everyone knows that southern clothes are cheap and stylish, few people dare to really do business.

    Sun Chanughed and said, "I think you''re really good at doing business. You''re also great at choosing clothes."

    "Of course, I may not be good at other things, but I''m confident in my business skills. Trusting me won''t go wrong, I''ll make you prosper."

    Su Chan smiled and said nothing.

    "Oh, can you make me something to eat? I''m starving."

    Only then did Sun Chan realize that it was alreadypletely dark. The two had spent several hours sorting clothes. She hurried to the kitchen because there was no food left, kneaded some noodles, cooked a few eggs, smashed some cucumbers, made some egg sauce, and poured it all over the noodles. It tasted pretty good.

    Just as Han Dong was about to start eating, Gu Junming came over, and as soon as he entered, he said to Sun Chan, "I''m here, is there any food? I''m starving."

    Sun Chan was a bit surprised, "It''s sote, and you haven''t eaten?"

    "Yeah, I''m starving."

    "You only know how to tell me you''re hungry. It''s like I''m a food vendor. I''m not feeding you anymore."

    Gu Junmingughed, "Won''t you feel sorry if I starve?" He said this and leaned in for a kiss on her cheek.

    Someone inside coughed, "Be mindful, there are others here."

    Gu Junming walked in and was surprised to see Han Dong, "Why are you here?"

    "Hmm, can''t I be here?" Han Dong slurped noodles without looking up.

    Sun Chan smiled, "Brother, there are two buns here, do you want the leftover noodles?"

    "Yes, please give me more soup." He changed his shoes and was startled to see all the clothes in the room.

    "Aren''t there too many clothes?"

    "These are too many?" Han Dongughed, "This is not much! If you go all the way to Shenzhen, wouldn''t it be silly not to buy more? There are still a bunch of pedal pushers and bras in the inner room." These two had bought quite a lot this time. Sun Chan had spent all her savings, and coupled with the two or three hundred spent by Gu Junming, there was a lot of capital. If they didn''t sell well, they could lose quite a bit.

    But Sun Chan was quite confident about these clothes.

    Gu Junming initially wanted to take a look inside, but hearing the word ''bras'', he frowned slightly and awkwardly coughed a few times before returning.

    "Brother, why are you so old-fashioned? It''s normal. Don''t you wear underwear yourself? Or is it that Big Brother, you haven''t seen a bra?"

    "Less nonsense." Gu Junming took the bowl Sun Chan handed him. Of course, he hadn''t seen it; he only had an older sister who made her own undergarments.

    But how could he say that? He was a bit curious about what underwear looked like. But he restrained himself and didn''t go to look.

    Sun Chan didn''t know his thoughts and asked what happened at the troupe. Gu Junming exined.

    The corners of Sun Chan''s mouth twitched, this Su Miao, such a schemer.

    Han Dong sneered, "She finally got her way. When she first appeared, I knew she wasn''t a good person. Now look, just as expected!"

    "Father Yang is quite detestable, but being entangled like this, he''s almost ruined, I wonder how his wife will react. Yan Kai and I are also implicated."

    "Fortunately, this woman changed her mind and is no longer pestering you. If such a nasty person got attached to Gu Junming, would there be any good oue? By then, it would be you guys who are ruined and separated," Han Dong said.

    Sun Chan didn''t speak, but frowned and stayed silent. Before, Su Miao wasn''t in such a hurry; why was she now suddenly trying so hard to get married off quickly? Was she being pressured by her parents?

    But whatever the reason, this is how it is now. Father Yang is determined to marry this woman.

    Gu Junming didn''t say much but decided to keep his distance from the Yang family in the future.

    Knowing that Sun Chan nned to sell clothes back in the county town, Gu Junming didn''t object, only saying, "I''ll be on holiday over the weekend, I''ll go with you then. No need to rush; just sell these clothes slowly, they won''t spoil."

    "Hmm, I got it."

    Han Dong smiled, "You guys may not be worried, but I am, I''ve put in a lot of money."

    "Understood, we''ll sell them well," Sun Chanughed.

    After eating, Han Dong and Gu Junming left together.

    Sun Chan saw them off and then picked out the clothes she had prepared for Yang Liu and Sister Guihua to send to them tomorrow. She also bought a bag for Yang Zhen; although she disliked Yang Yun, she quite liked Yang Zhen, newly acquainted friends indeed.

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 225 - 225 Zhao Jieyun

    Early the next morning, Sun Chan went to the hotel run by Guihua.

    Yang Liu and Guihua received the clothes and were very happy. They were both dresses with a cinched waist design. Yang Liu''s was a red and whitebination, and Guihua''s was ck with an irregr skirt hem, all made of fine material.

    The twoughed and said, "The clothes from Shenzhen are really beautiful."

    "Yes, if we sell well this time, I want to go again," Sun Chan said.

    "Well, if you''ll be buying clothes in the morning market, take me with you?" Yang Liuughed, "I also want to make more money."

    "Sure, if Sister Guihua is willing, we can go together and then head to Shenzhen."

    "No problem." Who wouldn''t want the opportunity to make money? Guihua now had some spare cash and didn''t want to just leave it in the bank.

    Even though the fruit stall was still making money, it didn''t necessarily have to be managed by her. She thought if the clothing business could seed, she could have someone look after the stall.

    At lunchtime, Yang Liu came over. Unlike her usual rxed demeanor, she looked rather serious.

    "What happened?" Sun Chan curiously asked.

    "Sigh! My aunt came over, talking about divorce. You know about it, right?"

    Sun Chan nodded, "Try to persuade her to think it through."

    "Sigh, it''s hard for her to think clearly either."

    Yang Zhen didn''t like getting involved in this matter, but since her aunt came, she had to. However, when she went to their house, she wasn''t even let in; Yang Yun drove her away.

    "Are you genuinely here to see me or just to watch the spectacle? Leave! Don''t bother me; don''t think I don''t know your intentions? You just want to see everything in chaos!"

    Yang Zhen said, "I really don''t know what happened."

    "Go! If you don''t, I won''t be polite!" Yang Yun, filled with anger, seeing Yang Zhen''s honesty reminded her of that Su Miao. She initially pretended to be obedient, but who would have thought she''d be so shameless! Yang Zhen is no better!

    Actually, Yang Zhen had only heard from the nanny when she called the Yang Family in the morning that something had happened, involving some scandal, but she didn''t know the details. Her aunt came, and it wouldn''t be right not to visit. Who knew Yang Yun would drive her away? She could only return and sit with Sun Chan.

    "What exactly happened?"

    "Ha." Sun Chan exined the situation and then advised, "You''d better not involve yourself in the Yang Family''s matters in the future."

    Yang Zhen listened with furrowed brows and felt a wave of disgust. Su Miao was shameless, but Yang Yun was also foolish. Forget it, she wouldn''t meddle anymore.

    "My poor aunt."

    "Will she agree to the divorce?" Sun Chan asked, "Isn''t she the victim here?"

    These days, marriage is as crucial to a woman as her life; how could she easily give it up?

    Yang Zhen frowned, "I think she will divorce. My aunt is a very proud person, and I''ve always admired her for that."

    In the Yang Family, Father Yang was very muddled; it was needless to mention the daughter. Yang Xiong was quite good but seldom at home. However, Zhao Jieyun was an admirable woman.

    Sun Chan nodded. Regardless of how this issue would be resolved, the damage to the Yang Family was significant.

    "Let''s not talk about this. How was Shenzhen?"

    "Well, I bought some clothes. Oh, this is for you." She took out a ck bag, the perfect size for books and lesson ns, with floral tassels on the outside and a center adorned with white bead stamens, understated and elegant.

    Yang Zhen eximed and took it, looking it over with eyes full of surprise, "This bag is beautiful!"

    "Isn''t it? I thought it suited you. You can carry it to work. It''s durable, too, and suitable for winter."

    "Thank you, thank you. I''ll buy you something delicious another day."

    "Don''t mention it. I have lots of questions I can''t answer; can you help me?"

    Of course, Yang Zhen agreed and started exining the questions.

    Meanwhile, just like these people thought, the atmosphere at the Yang Family was quite bad.

    Zhao Jieyun sat on the sofa, watching her husband coldly. She wore a military uniform, looking valiant and beautiful, even at her age, unlike ordinary women. There was a toughness between her brows.

    Father Yang was already too ashamed to face Zhao Jieyun, "I know I''ve wronged you, but things have reached this point. If I don''t agree, she''ll cause trouble above, and Yun Yun will go to jail. I really have no choice��"

    Zhao Jieyun looked at Yang Yun, "And you, what do you mean?"

    "Mom, I was wrong." Yang Yun looked at her mother with aggrieved eyes, wanting to hug her like before, but seeing the anger on her face, didn''t dare. She took a few steps back, biting her lip, "I really regret it. I shouldn''t have hit anyone."

    "Go upstairs; when I return, I''ll take you to the provincial city."

    "Mom��"

    "Mom has been busy with work and lost a child, so I''ve always been good to you, spoiling you without bounds. That was my mistake, and this is my punishment. From now on, I''ll no longer favor you."

    Yang Yun started to choke up, wanting to argue several times, but facing her mother''s sad eyes, she couldn''t say anything. After all, it was because of her that her mother was going to lose her marriage.

    "Go upstairs; I need to talk to your father alone."

    Yang Yun left, ncing back as she climbed the stairs.

    Only then did Zhao Jieyun look at Father Yang.

    Father Yang apologized immediately, "Jieyun, you know I wouldn''t dare find another woman behind your back, no matter what! Let alone one who schemed to ruin me!"

    She waved her hand, "No need to say more. The situation has developed to this point, arguing about who''s right or wrong is pointless."

    "Yes, you''re right, wife. I really feel ashamed��"

    "Don''t call me wife anymore," Zhao Jieyun said, "The best course now is to divorce. Once we''re divorced, however you Yang Family wee that woman is your business. Take care. Now, let''s go handle the paperwork and documents."

    Both being in the military, the process was a bit moreplicated, but if both agreed, it was just a procedure to go through.

    Seeing his wife''s cold demeanor, Father Yang felt as if all his strength had been drained. He ruffled his hair and said to her, "Can you give me a chance? If it were true that I had something with Su Miao, I''d deserve whatever oue, but it''s not like that at all. Please believe I have no feelings for that woman."

    Zhao Jieyun looked at him, "I''m really too disappointed in you. We''ve been married for many years, and I know you too well. You wouldn''t do such a thing, but flies don''t bite a seamless egg; you aren''t entirely meless either��"

 Chapter 226: A Wise Woman

    "I know! Please don''t do this!" Father Yang rushed over and grabbed his wife''s hand: "It was my negligence! She had her eye on me early on, and Ipletely didn''t realize it! I was just trapped like this, and I really regret it now! Help mee up with a solution, I don''t want to marry Su Miao!"

    Zhao Jieyun said coldly, "That''s your business, why tell me. If you don''t like Su Miao, why get so close to her?"

    He painfully grabbed his hair: "Jieyun! We were a couple when we were young, we... we lost our child back then and were suppressed like that but never gave up, why... why is it like this now? Believe me, I only want you, I don''t like Su Miao, if such a vicious woman really marries into the Yang family, we''ll be finished!"

    Ruined reputation and mockery aside, what future is there for the daughter and ourselves? A greedy woman like Su Miao demands a lot. If she uses this family''s reputation to do something, anything could happen.

    Zhao Jieyun couldn''t help but feel distressed when thinking about the past years.

    Back then, suffering so much, couldn''t keep the child, had to hand it over to rtives, but after something happened to the rtives, couldn''t contact them, and the child still doesn''t know where they are.

    Now the eldest daughter has be like this, and if the husband divorces her, there''s no hope.

    Zhao Jieyun bit her lip: "Okay, I believe you, I''ll help you, but it''s only for Yang Yun''s sake. I don''t want her to feel guilty."

    "I understand! I know you best, giving me a chance, I thank you!"

    "You need to make things clear to me, exin everything piece by piece. We can analyze it."

    "Okay, I''ll listen to you, whatever you say, I believe it."

    He exined how Su Miao initially entered the Yang family, how she ttered the daughter and himself, frequently visited, and went out for walks with him, then how he ended up asleep.

    Zhao Jieyun kept her brows tightly furrowed, he finished speaking and fell silent, waiting for a long time before hearing Zhao Jieyun say, "Let''s go ask Zhao Yingjun now."

    "Why?"

    "This person is always selfish, never meddles in affairs, and looks down on countryside people, so why did he hold Su Miao in high regard? You don''t know how he and his wife got together? He''s certainly not that kind-hearted! There must be an agenda, ask Zhao Yingjun, find out what kind of person Su Miao is, what her intentions are."

    "I see, okay, let''s go now!" Father Yang was suddenly enlightened.

    Su Miao could never have imagined that Zhao Jieyun was such a woman, originally thinking that this woman would hate the husband for doing such a thing, that a proud woman would divorce instantly, wouldn''t say another word.

    Maybe she would beg the husband not to give up, but thinking that her daughter was about to go to prison, she could onlypromise. A woman in her forties, could shepete with herself?

    She never imagined this woman would be so wise and intelligent.

    Zhao Jieyun didn''t me others and didn''t directly divorce the husband but took him to seek the root of the problems.

    Zhao Yingjun happened to be at home arguing with his wife.

    Actually, it was nothing much, just that Su Jinxiu cooked the food a bit too salty, so he started yelling, "You just dislike me and wish I were dead, right? I didn''t expect I married a vicious woman like you! You shameless woman, get out now!"

    Su Jinxiu had been cating, fawning, humbled herself, but seeing her husband''s indifferent face, she knew it was beyond redemption. She simply decided not to change her approach.

    She looked coldly at Zhao Yingjun, then said, "No need to say such useless things, want a divorce? I''m telling you, there''s no chance."

    "Why are you clinging to me?" He frustratedly pulled at his hair, "I''ve said that I''d give you the house and savings, you wanted to be a city person, now you''ve seeded, what else do you want? Why cling together without feelings? Don''t you think such a person is disgraceful?"

    "How disgraceful? You divorcing me to marry my niece isn''t disgraceful? Let me tell you, Zhao Yingjun, unless you kill me, I won''t ever divorce in this lifetime."

    Su Jinxiu''s only thought was, I''ll drag you down, if I can''t be well, don''t think you''ll be well too!

    Filled with anger, but calmed down instead.

    Zhao Yingjun stood up abruptly, his eyes viciously looking at his wife.

    Su Jinxiu held her sleeping child and looked at him, "Want to hit me? Go ahead! I want to see how you''ll treat me. Let everyone see how you truly treat my niece. I also want to see how you''ll face your workter! If you hit me, I''ll go find your boss and make a scene tomorrow! Still the same, unless I die, I won''t divorce!"

    Zhao Yingjun dared not hit Su Junxiu, kicked over the small table in front, went to the balcony to smoke. This vile woman, why doesn''t she die? So many car idents, unexpected incidents, things falling from above to crush people, why is she unharmed?

    He thought of Su Miao again, her elusive affection toward him was really frustrating! Did she really like me, or was she just using me to climb higher? No way! She''s so pure and kind!

    Actually, people don''t want to face reality, evidently clear already, yet still foolishly dreaming that she has unspeakable difficulties. Thinking it''s because she loves him too much that she hides.

    Su Jinxiu sat on the outside sofa expressionless, anyway it''s like this now, absolutely won''t divorce. If divorced like this, let her husband marry Su Miao, wouldn''t she be drowned by spit? Absolutely not!

    Thinking of Su Miao, she clenched her fist, damn slut, even if I die, I won''t let you have it easy!

    While daydreaming, there''s a knock on the door. Late at night, it startled both Zhao Yingjun and Su Jinxiu.

    Su Jinxiu held the child and opened the door, seeing Father Yang and Zhao Jieyun together, surprised: "May I ask you..."

    "I''m Zhao Jieyun, we''re here about Su Miao, there''s something we want to inquire about." Zhao Jieyun said calmly.

    Zhao Yingjun came over from the balcony, warmly weing them: "Why did youe sote and personally too? Go brew some tea!" He red at Su Jinxiu. In front of outsiders, Su Jinxiu despite everything, maintained dignity and went to the kitchen.

    But Zhao Jieyun waved her hand: "No need, I came tonight with a purpose. Su Miao said she slept with my husband and wants him to take responsibility and marry her. Wanted to ask you, what''s going on with this woman."

 Chapter 227 - 227 Smart

    Bang! tter! There was amotion in the kitchen, the sound of Su Jinxiu''s teapot falling to the ground. She dashed out in a panic: "What did you say? Su Miao and you...?" She looked at Father Yang, thinking, is this guy a scoundrel?

    The baby in her arms was crying loudly, but she couldn''t care less.

    Zhao Yingjun was also shocked: "You slept with her?"

    Father Yang felt deeply ashamed and waved his hand: "I didn''t! I was tricked, you might not believe it, but I really don''t know what happened!"

    He recounted the events of the night: "That''s how it went. My daughter injured her face, she got a scar on her forehead, and if I don''t want my daughter to go to jail, I can only marry her. But I''m not willing! Even though I don''t have much glory, I''m still a tiger from a military family. I can''t disgrace the family. I''ll own up to what I''ve done, but I can''t admit to what I haven''t done!"

    Zhao Jieyun looked at Zhao Yingjun, whose face was pale and whose whole body was trembling, curious about what was wrong with him. Clearly, my husband is the one in trouble, why are you like this? It seems it''s not simple!

    Su Jinxiu understood what was going on and smiled: "Look at you, you''re just worried about my niece. Seeing she''s in trouble, you turned out like this, scaring everyone. Sit down quickly."

    Zhao Yingjun nced at Su Jinxiu, then sat down, looking a bit disoriented, as if a fire was burning in his heart: Su Miao, Su Miao! You wretch! Is this how you treat me?

    I got you a job and a ce to live, yet you trample over me for your own gain!

    You''re something, really amazing! I''ve navigated the world of romance all these years, thinking myself a master, yet I''ve been yed by you!

    His heart was filled with anger, humiliation, mockery, absurdity, and an impulse to kill Su Miao.

    Su Jinxiu had only one emotion �C happiness. No matter what, her husband couldn''t be with Su Miao, which was a good thing! It didn''t matter what Su Miao wanted; as long as she didn''t ruin my marriage, it was fine.

    She also hoped that after this event, Zhao Yingjun woulde to his senses and stay by her side for good.

    Zhao Yingjun''s mind was in chaos, only seeing Su Jinxiu''s mouth open and close as she spoke to Father Yang and Zhao Jieyun, yet he couldn''t hear clearly. It took a while for his brain to put together the pieces.

    Su Jinxiu said: "We really didn''t know it would be like this. We only heard she went to work at the factory connected to the army, but I really don''t know the specifics! Besides, my husband is just her uncle-inw; he can''t manage everything, right? I can''t say much about the girl''s character, but she caused quite a few disturbances while staying at our house. You can ask other neighbors; they can testify. Isn''t that right, Yingjun?"

    The implication being, what she did has nothing to do with us, so you don''t have to worry about offending us.

    Zhao Yingjun looked at his wife, and after a long pause, said: "I''ve always looked out for her just because of my wife. I really didn''t know anything else, and who would have thought she''d have such intentions. If I had known, I wouldn''t have introduced her to you all, even if it cost me my life. It''s all my fault." He tightened his fists and apologized to Father Yang.

    Father Yang waved his hand: "I don''t even know what to say. If I hadn''t spoken with her often, this wouldn''t have happened today. I need to reflect. I just hope my wife can forgive me."

    "You see faces but not hearts. It''s not your fault. But this matter isn''t settled just by her forgiving you. Su Miao is smart; once she''s determined on something, she won''t give up." Su Jinxiu wouldn''t let Su Miao have a good life, so she started to stir up trouble, sighing as she continued: "I''m not trying to speak ill of her, but Su Miao is a very calcting girl. Previously, she rejected all the matches introduced by the vige, not even looking at them. Her heart is so big! Finally, she caught someone with good conditions, she won''t let go."

    "What now!" Zhao Yingjun stood up angrily: "It''s all because of you, this wretched woman! If you hadn''t brought this troublemaker home, the Yang Family wouldn''t have had this incident, it''s all your family''s fault!"

    Su Jinxiu sneered inwardly, thinking that he couldn''t vent his fire and started to me her. Too bad she didn''t care. If he''s capable, he shoulde up with a solution, right?

    The baby who was being soothed in the mother''s arms was about to fall asleep but couldn''t help crying again. Su Jinxiu gently rocked the baby,forting it softly, very tenderly, not angry at all.

    Zhao Jieyun said: "Why are you arguing with your wife? Would you really kick out a rtive who sought refuge with you? How would you return home? It''s not your wife''s fault."

    Zhao Yingjun realized his loss ofposure and quickly said: "It''s my fault. I was just thinking about the harm to your family and couldn''t help but be angry. s, it''s all I who had no eyes and misjudged the person!" These were true words. He sat on the chair back, ran his hands through his hair, not knowing how to face his wife''s gaze.

    "I''ve thought about this. Since this woman has set her mind on seducing my husband, she''s likely prepared, right? I want to go to her current ce and see if I can find out something there."

    "Right, Zhao Yingjun, you should know, right? Weren''t you busy helping her rent a house and move recently? You should know where she lives. You cared so much about my niece, and now this has happened, really sorry." Su Jinxiu said with a smile.

    She would never let Su Miao marry into the Yang Family and enjoy wealth and glory. With this situation, Zhao Yingjun, with his pride, surely wouldn''t be with Su Miao anymore, so there''s no need to worry about him wishing for the past; he''d naturally not hide anything.

    Zhao Yingjun nodded: "Yes, I know where she lives, I''ll take you there."

    He red at Su Jinxiu, then picked up his coat.

    He said nothing along the way, striding ahead without any intention of speaking to the two of them.

    Father Yang was puzzled: "He seems even angrier than I am. Why is that?"

    Zhao Jieyun smirked coldly: "Su Miao is really something. She''s pretty shameless."

    "What do you mean?"

    "Can''t you see the spiteful tone of those two talking? Isn''t it obvious?"

    Father Yang paused, then felt a bit disgusted: "No way, this... this..."

    Zhao Jieyun said: "You fell for this woman''s schemes, no surprise at all. No wonder our daughter ended up like this; your brain, really! Fortunately, you''re dad''s son; otherwise, if you were from another family, you''d be dead several times over! Your work isn''t good, you''re bad at educating your daughter. In the future, I''ll take care of her; don''t interfere. Otherwise, you''ll ruin the child, and you''re finished too."

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 228 Selling Goods

    <h4>Chapter 228: Chapter 228 Selling Goods</h4>

    "Yes, I know." Father Yang changed a lot after the incident, became much more humble. Despite hisck of abilities, he always had a penchant for trouble, which ended up offending Gu Junming,nding him in hot water. Previously, thanks to his wife��s guidance, he avoided mistakes, but separated from her for a few months, and here he was.

    Seeing his wife��s profile, he suddenly remembered something: "Actually, I saw a photo before..."

    "Hmm?"

    He was about to speak when he saw Zhao Yingjun entering a unit building, so he said, "It��s nothing, let��s resolve this issue first."

    Zhao Jieyun didn��t think much of it and continued to follow Zhao Yingjun.

    Zhao Yingjun turned the key and opened Su Miao��s room, but didn��t enter. Inside, he was extremely agitated and enraged, thinking he��d diligently found and helped set up this ce for her, and this wretch repays him like this!

    They saw a bottle on the table, with some light yellow liquid residues inside, and there was a strange smell in the room.

    Zhao Jieyun said, "Hmm, could this be a knockout drug?"

    "It should be. I noticed a smell when drinking water, but didn��t think much of it because it was faint." He sniffed the bottle��s opening.

    "Hmm, call the police then. Have the station handle this affair."

    However, Father Yang hesitated: "This matter... isn��t it a bit inappropriate? After all, I��m a soldier..."

    At its core, he was worried about his reputation.

    Zhao Jieyun nced at Father Yang, he quickly pointed at his forehead: "Your daughter hit someone else��s head, if the police get involved, doing things by the book might risk her ending up in jail."

    This was indeed a concern; even at her harshest, Zhao Jieyun couldn��t bear to send her daughter to jail. She thought: "Alright, Zhao Yingjun, contact the family back home and have Su Miao��s rtivese over. Tell them she��s injured and we need to discuss something with her."

    "Okay, I got it." Zhao Yingjun said tly and went down the stairs.

    Zhao Jieyun said, "Gather all this evidence carefully, we can��t let this woman turn the tables on us."

    "I understand. This woman..." Her husband said no more, feeling uneasy inside.

    Zhao Jieyun had no mood to manage his affairs as she examined the drug: "Where did she get it from? It seems to be some kind of raw material? She��s from a vige, probably got it from work; let��s go ask at her workce."

    "No need to go to her workce, isn��t there an expert neighbor of ours? We can ask him and find out."

    "You sure are clever."

    Father Yang smiled wryly: "Stop teasing me."

    Zhao Jieyun snorted. Although they weren��t nning to report it to the police, they asked a man working at the police station to help inspect the ce. Not wanting to escte things officially, they must still prepare some evidence. Taking photos to preserve it, the primary concern was this woman might turn against them.

    The couple returned and asked their neighbor, learning this liquid is frequently used to lubricate machinery in textile nts, and drinking a small amount can temporarily put someone to sleep, though too much can be toxic.

    Father Yang clenched his fists��had this all been premeditated?

    After expressing their gratitude, Zhao Jieyun led Father Yang home. Now they awaited the arrival of Su Miao��s parents to resolve the issue.

    Zhao Yingjun had intended to go back home but spoke no further, directly heading to the kitchen, drank half a bottle of liquor, getting messily drunk, and stumbled into the room where Su Jinxiu was already asleep with her child. Smelling the alcohol, she woke up.

    Zhao Yingjun clutched a nket and sobbed, then fell asleep.

    Su Jinxiu turned away with a snort; serves him right for being soscivious! But still, she fetched a damp towel to ce on his forehead.

    Then she made some vinegar water; Zhao Yingjun pulled Su Jinxiu into his embrace, falling quickly to sleep.

    Su Jinxiu��s lips curled; now you see the value of having a wife, right?

    Sun Chan wasn��t interested in this affair, and the next day, she headed back to the town along with Han Dong, packing their clothes into the vehicle.

    The two of them had already arranged with Wang Dan and decided to faint at the stall.

    Of course, they saw the pregnant Wang Dan.

    Wang Dan had grown plump, showing a double chin, smiled as she supported her belly: "How are you doing?"

    Sun Chan smiled and said, "Okay."

    "What��s ��okay��? You��re just a great beauty!" Wang Danughed, "It��s so good to be slim, but I��ve gained so much weight now that clothes don��t look good on me."

    "Don��t worry, I found a long skirt for you without a waist, just perfect for summer wear." Sun Chan grinned as she held it up against her. Wang Dan liked it instantly.

    "You remember I love tangerine-orange?"

    "Of course! Though we don��t often connect, you��re my dear friend!" She held Wang Dan��s hand tightly, smiling.

    If Wang Dan hadn��t brought her to the city back then, she wouldn��t be where she was now. She wanted to invite Wang Dan to dinner.

    "Forget it,e to my house in the evening." Wang Danughed, "Leave the stall to you; I��m going home to lie down. The doctor said I need to rest."

    "Sure, but try to eat less. When I worked as a caregiver, doctors advised eating too much could make childbirth difficult."

    "Understood. The doctor said the same; it��s my mother-inw who insists on feeding me so much; I��m being careful now." Sheughed. Soon after, her partner arrived, helped her onto a run-down little car. He nodded and smiled at Sun Chan and Han Dong, and went on his way. He had work, couldn��t linger.

    Han Dong and Sun Chan together ced the clothes in the stall.

    "Look at them, they already have a car. Though not great, it must cost eight to ten thousand, right? Business must be good."

    "Yes, pretty good." Sun Chan smiled, "You��re truly the best among us."

    "Of course, just look who I am." Han Dong replied confidently.

    The twoughed and talked, arranging the clothes.

    Back then in the North, clothes were dull with no attractive colors or styles; even a rare good piece was expensive. But those Sun Chan brought back directly from Shenzhen were colorful and affordable, quickly drawing a crowd.

    Han Dong stood on a chair and shouted, "Come and look! My clothes, fifteen yuan per set! You won��t suffer losses, won��t get duped! Hong Kong and Taiwan imports! Some exported to the United States! Those dresses here are thirty! These underwear... you decide the price, Sun Chan."

    Sun Chan frowned slightly, realizing Han Dong was lying! The clothes each cost only a few yuan yet sold for fifteen?

    However, the locals seemingly trusted it, eagerly gathering to look. Everyone wanted to know, how do foreign clothes look?

 Chapter 229: Going to Wang Dan’s Home

    <h4>Chapter 229: Chapter 229: Going to Wang Dan��s Home</h4>

    Sun Chan couldn��t undermine her! She simply went along and said, "These bras... ten yuan each."

    Han Dong took a look; the little girl wasn��t daring enough to name a price! You could sell them for twelve, such a pity.

    Bras weren��t purchased much back then; most were handmade, but everyone has a love for beauty. Bras with mesh, beads, andce gave a sense of luxury! Ten yuan each was more expensive than other bras, but because of the quality and style, some people still bought them.

    And there were all sorts of shoes, all sandals, with really good-looking designs, though not much exnation was needed. But who cared about quality? They were just seasonal wear; seeing petal-shaped or glittering gold shoes surprised everyone, and they weren��t expensive. Some people put them on and left right away.

    The two of them were both organizing and selling. By noon, they made over two hundred cash, which wasn��t bad at all.

    To celebrate, Sun Chan got a lunchbox for lunch, one that was quite a good meal. She even gave Han Dong the fish from her lunchbox.

    "Thanks for your hard work. We made quite a bit today."

    But Han Dong was clearly not quite satisfied as he ate. "You need to call out, make it lively. Just standing there silently, only working and finding clothes��does that work?"

    Sun Chan blushed, "Sorry."

    "You don��t need to apologize to me. I can��t always be here with you. We should take shifts, right? When I��m not here, if you don��t call out, won��t it be quiet? You need to be more courageous."

    Sun Chan nodded, and in the afternoon, she obviously loosened up and called out loudly. Plus, she had a good figure and looked nice, so when she wore the clothes, she was like a clothes hanger. People who saw how she looked wearing the clothes were clearly satisfied.

    The only issue was that there was no ce to change clothes.

    If it was shoes, one could just find a ce to switch, but clothes couldn��t be changed just standing there!

    Sun Chan found a corner and set up a curtain with fabric on two sides and a wall at the back. If someone wanted to try on clothes, Sun Chan would hold the curtain for them. Although it wasn��trge, it was enough for someone inside to change clothes.

    Han Dong stood outside calling out; the two worked seamlessly together. By afternoon, when the store was closing, Han Dong leaned back humming a little tune, counting the money, looking very rxed.

    Sun Chanughed, "How much did we make?"

    "After expenses andbor, each of us earned one hundred eighty."

    Sun Chan gaped, "So much?" She was so busy she was almost confused, handling the cash was all Han Dong��s job, she really didn��t know they made so much money!

    Han Dongughed, "You��re funny! Who dislikes having too much money, take it!"

    He gave the money to Sun Chan, but Sun Chan gestured, "Let��s keep it together until we finish the business, then divide it."

    "You wait too long, I can��t bear to. I want to spend now." Han Dong put the money in her hands, "Just keep the books straight. I��m nning to go to Shenzhen in a while; if you trust my taste, I��ll bring back a batch of clothes for you. How about it?"

    Sun Chan was thrilled, nodded with a smile, "Really? That��s great! These clothes look fantastic."

    "It��s nothing. When we have money, we��ll bring in a batch of branded ones."

    "But that��s pricey."

    "Expensive is what sets them apart! There are quite a few wealthy people in this city, wearing good clothes. If we sell those high-end clothes, we won��tck customers." Han Dong stretchedzily, "Let��s go find Wang Dan for dinner. Oh, and don��t tell Wang Dan how much we made, to avoid jealousy."

    Sun Chan couldn��t help butugh, "Got it. Can��t believe you thought it through so well."

    "Of course, who do you think I am?" Han Dongughed, "Just follow me; I��ll make you wealthy."

    "Are you recruiting little brothers? I��m your sister-inw. Let��s go; it��s closing time." Sun Chanughed.

    Han Dong said, "I know." He got up and walked out, thinking to himself that he actually wanted her to be his wife.

    The two arrived at Wang Dan��s house, picking up some pastries, two bottles of alcohol, and a carton of cigarettes along the way��themon gifts of that era. Han Dong got the best.

    Wang Dan��s inws were average citizens, never having seen such good tobo and alcohol, warmly weing them inside.

    It was Sun Chan��s first time at Wang��s house; it��s not big, and because of the ceiling, the height felt a bit low, but that was the most popr decoration style of that era.

    Wang Dan��s inws sat with Han Dong; he didn��t have much to say to his own parents. Conversations often turned into arguments, but pleasing other people��s parents came naturally. Soon enough, he had themughing heartily.

    Sun Chan took a look; Wang Dan��s room was very tidy. The sounds of frying and cooking came from the kitchen, and Wang Dan stood at the door, directing her husband to cook shrimp.

    Sun Chan chuckled and walked over, "You��re not tired? Take a break."

    Wang Danughed, "I��ve slept all day, not sleeping anymore. I love eating this!" She whispered, "Thanks to you; I said with guests, we need to serve something. Otherwise, my inws wouldn��t spend. They��re extremely stingy."

    Sun Chan tapped Wang Dan, ncing at her partner, "What are you talking about!"

    "I��m telling the truth, right? It��s not that I demand food; your son wants it! So stingy!" She red at her partner.

    Her partner chuckled, "Honey, don��t be upset. We��re not living together. If you want to eat, I��ll secretly buy it for youter. But while they��re here, just tolerate it a bit. They��ve been poor their whole lives, don��t spend easily."

    "Ugh! Fine, I��ll tolerate it for you."

    Her partner lovingly brushed her hair and went back to work.

    Sun Chan couldn��t help but smile; Wang Dan was truly lucky, having a husband who loved her and pampered her. It didn��t matter whether he was wealthy or not; she could live well.

    Wang Dan asked about the business, and Sun Chan cheerfully replied, "There are many people, but after expenses, we don��t earn much. I��m just trying to keep busy." Knowing Wang Dan wouldn��t be jealous, yet her husband and inws might not be thrilled! Plus, fellow traders wouldn��t be happy with someone doing better.

    Wang Dan pondered, "Once I have my child, should I head south?"

    Sun Chan chuckled, "Sure! We can go together, I��ll set up a stall in X City."

    "Aren��t you selling fruits?"

    "Selling both is fine; the business there isn��t great. I can hire a waiter to keep an eye."

    Wang Dan picked up a bowl of peanuts. "You��re impressive, running a business and studying, can you handle it?"

    She didn��t dare to think about studying, wondering what was driving Sun Chan to self-punishment?

 Chapter 230 Picking a Fight

    <h4>Chapter 230: Chapter 230 Picking a Fight</h4>

    Sun Chan said with a smile, "Aren��t I young now? I can do whatever I want. Once I get married, Gu Junming won��t let me fool around anymore. Better enjoy it while I��m not married."

    "That��s true." Wang Dan agreed, "I can��t do anything now. It��s so frustrating."

    "You��re already lucky. Don��t be ungrateful for the blessings you have."

    Wang Dan��s partner came over and kissed her hair, "Sorry, my dear. Let��s go eat."

    "Got it." Wang Dan picked up some peanuts with a smile, snacking like a little squirrel as she walked.

    Wang Dan��s family, along with Sun Chan and Han Dong, had a meal together, and it was very harmonious.

    Han Dong and Wang Dan��s partner were both charismatic and knew how to liven up the atmosphere, while Wang Dan cheerfully stayed close to her mother-inw, joking and acting sweet, and her mother-inw was very fond of her.

    Watching their interaction, Sun Chan felt inspired. While eating, she thought, who would like a daughter-inw who��s always down? I should also stay optimistic. Withughter and chatter, even if there are some disputes, things won��t be too unpleasant as long as the surface is handled well.

    They wanted Sun Chan to stay, but she refused, saying she had to look after her own stall tomorrow. Han Dong was leaving, so she stayed at the inn. After taking care of Sun Chan, Han Dong left.

    Before leaving, they discussed the next day��s clothing prices, "You can��t set the price too low. You know these folks love bargains; even if you give them the lowest price, they��ll still want you to lower it. So start high and gradually lower it."

    "Yeah, but I feel like my prices are high enough. I��m selling underwear that costs me a few bucks for over ten."

    Han Dongughed, "You! You��ll never make it as a businessperson. Who worries about the buyer when selling things? Don��t worry; they have a price in mind that they��re willing to bear. If it��s too expensive, they won��t buy it. If they can buy it, they can afford it. Wanting to look goodes with a price."

    Sun Chan nodded; that made sense.

    "Right, you should find someone. If you also need to go back, we can��t always be at the stall. Someone needs to look after it."

    Sun Chan thought for a moment, "How about Wang Shufen?"

    "Your big sister?" Han Dong hadn��t met Wang Shufen, but he��d heard about her from Gu Junming. She was divorced and had been living in the vige with her son.

    "Yeah! She��s very reliable, and she wants her son to go to school in the city."

    "That works, talk it over with your older brother. I have to go."

    Sun Chan walked him out, "Be careful, it��s dark at night. Don��t get robbed."

    Han Dong chuckled, turned around, and left. The street outside was cool, the air fragrant with flowers. Walking down the street, Han Dong was in a great mood, though he refused to ponder why he was so happy.

    Sun Chan saw him off, washed up, andy in bed thinking about her mother-inw, frowning slightly. Would Wang Guihua like her? Probably not, right? Thankfully, she��s not her biological mother, and Gu Junming doesn��t let her suck up to her, which is alright. But there might be trouble during the wedding. With these thoughts, she turned over and fell asleep.

    Meanwhile, Wang Guihua, who Sun Chan was worried about, was throwing tantrums at home every day.

    Her husband had been stationed at the army for a long time and hadn��te back. Her father-inw was staying with Mr. Yan, and her son and daughter-inw hadn��te back since thest time. Being alone in the house, she felt an unprecedented sense of sadness and resentment. She was so angry she gritted her teeth, ming Yang Hongying for taking her son away.

    "Fox spirit! A widow still so good at bewitching people? My carefully raised good son, why should you have a im over him? You��re all avoiding me. I��lle find you tomorrow! Let��s see if you can throw me out?"

    Yang Guihua stood up abruptly with that thought, deciding that��s what she��d do. With her mind made up, she went to sleep.

    Though she loathed Yang Hongying, Gu Juntao was still her son whom she��d loved for years; she couldn��t help but care. So on the way, she bought some ribs, fish, and chicken, packed them in a big bag before heading over.

    It happened to be the weekend the next day, and Gu Juntao was off work, having dinner at home with his wife: two bowls of rice, a small dish of chili sauce, a bowl of radish strips, and an omelet with tomatoes.

    Gu Juntao savored the chili sauce, smiling, "Delicious! Who made this? Did you buy it?"

    "Sun Chan gave it to us! She also gave us several types of pickles, all very tasty."

    "Really? Should we try making some ourselves next time?"

    Yang Hongying blushed slightly, "I��ve never made it. We don��t have pickle jars here, but I��ll learn from her. Can we use ss jars?"

    "Never mind. Let��s just get it from my sister-inw. We don��t eat much anyway. Hurry up, eat, and afterwards, I want to talk to you." He gave Yang Hongying a nce, blinking his eyes yfully.

    Yang Hongying��s face turned red. What��s up with himtely? He never seems to tire.

    Their atmosphere was just right, when someone knocked at the door. Gu Juntao went to open it and saw his mother. He secretly thought this was bad, wondering if she came to settle scores.

    Not wanting to make things awkward, he smiled and called out, "Mom, you��re here!" Then he quickly turned back, "Hong Ying, my mom��s here!"

    "Humph! What kind of daughter-inw lets the husband open the door while she eats sofortably when there are guests?"

    "I was closer to the door, so I opened it. Mom, have you eaten? Come have some more." Gu Juntao said with a smile.

    Wang Guihua walked in with a sullen look, seeing how simple their meal was and feeling even more displeased. When had her son been eating so inly? There were even pickles!

    "Yang Hongying, it��s understandable that my son is busy with work and doesn��t have time forvish meals. But howe even on a day off, you still cook so simply? Juntao is the main pir of the family. How can you be so irresponsible? Is our family so poor there��s no meat left?"

    Yang Hongying bit her lip and said nothing. She had been trying to please her mother-inw, but after some time, realized nothing she did could win her favor, so she just gave up, not wanting to say another word.

    Gu Juntao said, "It��s just breakfast, who eats meat in the morning? I couldn��t stomach it either. We��re making dumplings for lunch."

    "Dumplings? Can Yang Hongying roll out the dough? Can she knead it? Isn��t it all you? Before you got married, you were raised gently. Marriage is for someone to take care of you, but look at this, now you��re taking care of her!" Wang Guihua looked around, "Just look at those curtains, they��re dirty. Aren��t you going to take them down to wash? And the leather shoes need polishing. Tsk! You two are a mess. What are you thinking?"

 Chapter 231: Each Has Their Grievances

    <h4>Chapter 231: Chapter 231: Each Has Their Grievances</h4>

    Wang Guihua was dissatisfied with everything she saw. Why wouldn��t she stay in a good home, but would rather suffer outside? She shielded her eyebrows, looked around, wiped everything with her hand, and when she found dust, she said unpleasant things.

    Yang Hongying got up to clean the dishes, without saying a word.

    Wang Guihua angrily said, "What��s your attitude when I say you��re wrong? Why don��t you speak?"

    Yang Hongying nced at Wang Guihua, "No matter what I say, you won��t be satisfied, so I might as well say nothing."

    "You... Jun Tao, look at your wife! Is this how she talks to me?"

    Gu Juntao sighed, "Mom, what do you want? Do you want me to hit my wife?"

    "I would never. I��m just pointing out her shorings so she can correct them, it��s all for your sake." She sighed and grabbed her son��s wrist, "You��ve never suffered, you don��t understand anything, you��re living such a hard life outside, why note home?"

    Gu Juntao said, "I��m doing well like this, mom. I��ve started a family, I��m not a kid anymore, I don��t want to go back."

    "I��m not treating you like a kid, you��re my precious! I can��t bear seeing you suffer!" She was almost crying.

    Yang Hongying, holding the dishes, turned to leave, her face pale, very angry. What��s the meaning of this? Just because I��m with her son, am I abusing him?

    Wang Guihua saw her expression and got furious, following her over: "Yang Hongying, marrying into our family, don��t you know how to behave? Work diligently, make the home better, that��s what a daughter-inw should do. I��m not asking for you to be a perfect wife, but at least keep the house clean and tidy, right? How could I consent to your marriage, and yet you remain so ungrateful!"

    Gu Juntao frowned, "Mom, what are you even saying!" He felt a severe headache seeing Wang Guihua starting to cause a scene.

    "What did I say? A widow wanting to live with her nose in the air? Living at home without humility, who would love her then? I won��t indulge her faults!"

    Yang Hongying was really angry, she threw down the chopsticks in her hand, "Just because I��m a widow, I should be a workhorse, a servant at home every day? Gu Juntao, you talk to your mother. If you also think I��m no good, then let��s divorce!" She stopped cleaning up and mmed the door to the bedroom.

    "You... you... Gu Juntao, look, this is your wife��s true nature!" Wang Guihua was speechless, looking angrily at her son.

    "Mom, we��re doing just fine, as long as you don��t interfere, we��re always good. I know you��re dissatisfied with Yang Hongying, but she��s the person I like, can��t you take it easy for my sake?"

    "When did I scold her! She��s too immature!"

    "Yang Hongying is great, her brother helped find her a job, they��re busy like me every day and only have Sundays off. How can anyone do all the chores you expect? We will handle housework together, don��t worry about it."

    "What do you mean? Housework isn��t her job? The daughter-inw should do these!"

    "Have you done it? I��mughing from anger. You��re asking my wife to do things you never did yourself. Dad and Grandpa��s family conditions were good, allowing you to livefortably your entire life, and that��s fine. I don��t have the ability to make my wife enjoy suchfort, and I��m already quite apologetic about it, so don��t interfere with our lives. We��re living well; why do you have to find faults everywhere?"

    Wang Guihua��s eyes turned red with anger; she couldn��t believe her son, whom she had cherished since childhood, could be like this!

    "Youpletely disregard me, your heart only has your wife! Why am I even here? I��m leaving, I��ll leave now!"

    She finished, grabbing her bag and walking out, crying very sadly.

    Gu Juntao pulled Wang Guihua, "Mom, calm down! What are you doing?"

    "Let go of me. I��ll leave, so I��m not an eyesore to you!"

    Gu Juntao hurriedly turned and said, "Wife,e help me!"

    The door opened, and Yang Hongying came out pale-faced and tear-stained, she held the door weakly and said; "Jun Tao, I��m in pain... my stomach hurts. It hurts so much..."

    Gu Juntao didn��t react at first, somewhat stunned.

    Wang Guihua saw her pants stained red and eximed, "What��s happening?"

    Yang Hongying weakly panted, slowly sliding to the floor.

    It turned out, after going inside, shey on the bed crying. She was pampered growing up and being scolded like this, how could she feel okay? She loudly cried on the bed.

    But as she cried, things felt wrong, her stomach started fiercely hurting, and there was a hot flow gushing out. Struggling from the bed, she took steps walking outside.

    Gu Juntao ran over and pulled her up, "Don��t be scared, I��ll help you!"

    Yang Hongying weakly said, "Jun Tao, am I having a miscarriage?"

    Her period hadn��te for a while, she��d had an inkling but hadn��t told her husband, now this happened, she was worried sick.

    Gu Juntao carried her horizontally, heading outside, "Don��t worry, I��ll take you to the hospital! Don��t cry, I��ll take you right now!"

    "Even if it��s gone..."

    "As long as you��re okay, nothing else matters!"

    Gu Juntao, not caring to speak with his mother, hurriedly ran outside, hailed a taxi, and took her to the hospital. Wang Guihua anxiously followed from behind.

    While waiting outside the operating room, Wang Guihuained, "This child couldn��t even keep a child, what��s going on?"

    "What are you saying?" Gu Juntao was extremely upset, "Is this her fault? You scold her every day, her emotions were already tense! How could her health possibly be okay?"

    "You��re ming me now?" Wang Guihua felt more aggrieved, "She��s been married once, who��s to say it��s not habitual miscarriage? Just divorce her quickly."

    "Mom! Do you have to be like this?" Gu Juntao said angrily, "They��ve only been married a few months. The man��s been on assignments outside, they haven��t been together much! How could there be such an issue, stop talking about her! Otherwise, go back, I don��t want to quarrel with you, I��m very annoyed now!"

    Wang Guihua stopped talking out of anger, but her fury was still evident.

    After a while, the doctor came out, and they both stood up, "How is it?"

    "Two months pregnant, the child is fine, be careful! The mother��s emotions shouldn��t be too agitated. Take good care of the fetus."

    Gu Juntao let out a breath of relief, if this child was lost, his wife would most likely suffer lifelong pain.

    A nurse helped Yang Hongying out, she was pale, holding onto the door, Gu Juntao ran over and took her hand.

    "It��s alright, you take good care, the child��s fine!"

    Yang Hongying smiled faintly, leaning against Gu Juntao��s side.

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 232: Trouble

    <h4>Chapter 232: Chapter 232: Trouble</h4>

    Wang Guihua came over: "You should go home and recover; it��s better for the child." She didn��t like this woman, but she still wanted the child.

    Originally, she meant well, as there was a nanny at home after all, providing more attentive care. However, Yang Hongying heard it and shuddered, frightenedly hiding behind Gu Juntao.

    Gu Juntao tightly held Yang Hongying��s hand and looked at his mother: "Mom, can you just leave us alone? I��m begging you. Can we have a few days of peace?"

    Wang Guihua staggered, stepped back a few paces, and looked at her son��s face in disbelief, never imagining she would be seen as the big viin in his eyes. Her face turned pale, and she didn��t want to say much anymore, stumbling her way out, her tears falling uncontrobly, suddenly thinking it would be better if she died. See how you are so unfilial!

    No one cares about me, no one is concerned, even if I died, no one would care, so why live at all?

    Just like that, Wang Guihua returned home in a daze. Gu Zishan was already home, sitting on the sofa reading a newspaper. He looked at her as she came back and said, "Why aren��t you at home properly, what are you doing?"

    "I went to see the second son, but their whole family ignored me, their attitude towards me..."

    "Did you go meddling with the affairs of Gu Juntao and his wife again?"

    Wang Guihua angrily said, "What do you mean by meddling? I��m concerned about Gu Juntao. What does that woman know? Because she��s always pestering my son, life has be so difficult!"

    Gu Zishan stood up irritably: "Nonsense! You don��t know how to behave, Gu Juntao and Yang Hongying are doing just fine, what are you doing? Insisting on meddling in their affairs! Have you had enough of the good life and must stir up trouble?"

    "You��re the one talking nonsense! Clearly, it��s Yang Hongying who relies on my son��s pampering to bully others here. Her health is poor, and just a few words from me led to a miscarriage! I think this woman is simply no good! I think they should just get divorced, otherwise, with habitual miscarriages, no one will be well off! If because of her, the Gu Family eventually has no descendants, then what?"

    "Shut up!" Gu Zishan��s chest heaved with anger, this disgraceful daughter-inw could bully her daughter-inw to the point of miscarriage, how could he not be angry: "Are you insane? You caused this to happen and still have the nerve to say such things? Wang Guihua, I��m telling you, don��t interfere with their life anymore! Otherwise, don��t think I won��t have the guts to divorce you! No matter if you dislike her, she��s still your daughter-inw! What you��re doing is really too much!"

    Wang Guihua stared at him in shock, unable to speak for a long time.

    Gu Zishan was also deeply angry, so he blurted out these words, feeling somewhat regretful afterward.

    But Wang Guihua took it seriously and coldlyughed: "What did you say? You actually want to divorce me? Fine! Now that I��m of no use to you, you want a divorce. When you knelt down and begged me back then, why didn��t you say I had a bad character? Now that you��re the boss and about to retire, your life has been smooth, and now that my parents have passed away, you start to dislike me? Isn��t that a bit shameless!"

    Gu Zishan��s eyes instantly filled with resentment, thest thing he wanted to recall was that shameful time long ago. To survive, he betrayed his wife and her family, turning to Wang Guihua and Bai Chuan, preserving his own wealth and status, so disappointed was his former wife that she divorced him, which is why Gu Junming was always indifferent towards him.

    Whenever he thought of that time, he felt extreme pain. In order to survive, he gave up his dignity. Although nobody punished him when everything was settled, he couldn��t bear his conscience��s condemnation. Now his wife brought it up again, making him truly furious!

    Wang Guihua shouted: "Gu Zishan, you were just like a dog back then, kneeling in front of my Wang Family people, wagging your tail and begging. You totally didn��t deserve me, had you not gotten me drunk and forced things to happen, would I be with you? You��re just a shameless scoundrel, a traitor, an ungrateful Chen Shimei!"

    Wang Guihua��s harsh words ignited the anger within Gu Zishan��s chest; he raised a hand and pped her across the face.

    "Divorce! We must get a divorce! You look down on me like this, why say these things?"

    "You heartless man!" Wang Guihua fell to the ground and cried loudly.

    Gu Zishan grabbed a cigarette, trembling as he lit it up, looking very agitated. Back then, he chose the Wang Family for survival, but it was clearly the Wang Family who took the initiative to contact him. Wang Guihua got him drunk and forced things to happen. Now she med him? Was this not twisting the truth?

    Wang Guihuay on the ground, thinking of all the grievances she had faced since her son��s marriage, living with Gu Zishan in mutual cold respect, and now her husband dared to hit her! She was overwhelmed with sadness, feeling wronged, she cried and cried until her vision went dark and she fainted.

    Gu Zishan saw that his wife wasn��t responding, was stunned for a moment, then regretfully threw the cigarette on the ground, extinguished it, and helped his wife up.

    "Wang Guihua! Wake up, huh? I was just saying things in anger, are you taking it seriously?"

    Wang Guihua already said nothing more, her face full of tears. She clenched her teeth, fainted there.

    He sighed, carried his wife outside.

    The nanny heard them arguing and went outside to hang clothes, saw them like this when she came inside, was immediately startled, hurried over to help send them to the hospital.

    The doctor examining her said it was a mild stroke requiring hospitalization, Gu Zishan, a big man, couldn��t care for her, so he let the nanny watch her, Wang Guihua wanted her daughters-inw toe and care for her.

    "I have two sons too. Whether you want it or not, you have to let them visit me, right? Otherwise, if word spreads, people willugh at me, none to take care of me, and I haven��t done anything heinous, why are they treating me this way?" She spoke and cried again.

    The people surrounding her bed were all cared for by daughters-inw; she was incredibly jealous.

    Gu Zishan looked at her pale face and sighed: "Alright, eat your meal, I��ll call themter."

    Sun Chan here had no idea what was going on there, she sold clothes in town for two days, business was quite good. Without Han Dong, she didn��t dare make the business too big, lest she couldn��t handle it herself, losing clothes or money would be too costly.

    So every day she only sold one or two kinds, today mainly selling shoes, tomorrow selling underwear, or only pants or t-shirts. Initially, she felt a bit embarrassed, but over time she loosened up, loudly hawking her goods.

    "Export to domestic market clothes,e and have a look, everyone!"

    With time she dared to bargain with people, some customers didn��t haggle at all, it was very profitable.

 Chapter 233: Very Tired, Right?

    <h4>Chapter 233: Chapter 233: Very Tired, Right?</h4>

    Sun Chan wrote down every penny she earned in the ount book. Han Dong trusted herpletely, and whatever amount was reported was the exact sum.

    She watched over the stall every day and had no time to eat properly, buying just a couple of cakes, three for a yuan, sometimes with a bit of pickled vegetable. She was terribly exhausted, and by thest day, she was really struggling to stay alert. All she wanted was to pack up and leave early.

    Just then, someone came up to buy underwear, being quite generous without haggling, they took one piece for fifteen yuan, handing over fifty. Sun Chan was so tired, she didn��t even look and was about to give change.

    At that moment, a hand reached from behind and grabbed the money, handing it back to the person: "This money won��t do, please change it, mate."

    Sun Chan was curious and turned around to see it was Gu Junming, a wave of joy washing over her: "You��re here?"

    "Yes, came to check on you," Gu Junming looked at Sun Chan, noticeably thinner with a sharper chin, and felt a pang of pain in his heart.

    Only then did Sun Chan remember: "Oh, what��s wrong with this money?"

    Gu Junming pointed to the mercury part of the bill and whispered: "Counterfeit."

    Sun Chan was startled, she hadn��t noticed earlier and was shocked that it was fake!

    The person with the counterfeit money initially intended to get outraged, trying to scare Sun Chan into giving them change.

    Yet seeing that Gu Junming looked like a soldier, tall and imposing, they knew better than to make a fuss. They huffed, tossed the clothes aside: "This money is obviously real, but I won��t buy! Fine, won��t argue with you lot!" They strode off briskly.

    Gu Junming sneered: "Such obvious fake money, and still trying to scam? Think we don��t recognize currency?"

    Sun Chan didn��t bother with it further, stowing the clothes away: "Thank you. If it weren��t for you, I��d have lost fifty yuan."

    "You��re thanking me?" Gu Junming found it amusing.

    Sun Chan felt somewhat embarrassed.

    Gu Junming ruffled her thinning hair: "It��s alright, just be more careful next time. How��s business?"

    "Okay, not bad!" Sun Chan nodded with a smile.

    Seeing her dark circles, Gu Junming pinched her cheek with concern: "Look at you, just been a few days and you��ve gotten this thin. Try to rest and ck off when you get the chance!"

    "Han Dong isn��t here, how can I rest? These clothes need to be sold quickly." Once Wang Dan��s pregnancy stabilizes, she needs to return the stall. While chatting with Gu Junming, she kept smiling as she neatly packed away the clothes,ying each piece t in the box.

    Gu Junming said: "My sister ising over, she��ll help you watch the stall. You can leave it to her for a while, we have to go back."

    Seeing the serious look on Gu Junming��s face, Sun Chan knew something was up, she asked: "What happened? Is there a problem?"

    "Wang Guihua is not in good health, we need to go take care of her."

    Though Sun Chan hadn��t married Gu Junming yet, she was already considered the daughter-inw. Now Gu Juntao��s wife had a threatened miscarriage and needed to rest quietly. Although there was a maid, it didn��t look good that neither daughter-inw went.

    Gu Junming said: "You don��t have to strain yourself, just go through the motions, take a casual look. I��m just worried about gossip, but honestly, I don��t want you to handle Wang Guihua. She��s bringing it on herself."

    "What exactly happened?"

    "It��s because of my brother," Gu Junming exined the situation.

    Sun Chan frowned slightly, thinking Wang Guihua had really gotten tired of living well, why insist on meddling in their affairs? People are married and living their lives, what does it have to do with you? Why do you keep interfering, trying to make Yang Hongying and him divorce? Even if they did divorce, it wouldn��t benefit you in any way.

    "You shouldn��t get involved in this. Wang Guihua isn��t my birth mother. Besides, this person... is very stubborn. Won��t listen to advice." Gu Junming had no fondness for this woman, if it weren��t for her, his own mother wouldn��t have died so early, so he remained lukewarm, only because of his father��s earnest request, and Yang Hongying��s need to protect the fetus, he was determined not to let Sun Chan go.

    "I get it," thought Sun Chan, she doesn��t really approve of me. I won��t concern myself, just go for a couple of days.

    Gu Junming said: "Alright, let��s rest, you look worn out. My sister will be here tomorrow."

    "Yeah, let��s go back," Sun Chan nodded with a smile.

    They tidied up a bit, covering the stall with a piece of white cloth, signaling they were closed.

    Together they walked out of the mall, Sun Chan yawned: "Shall we go back and rest?"

    "Let��s eat first. I can tell you haven��t eaten well. Come with me, I��ll get you something nice."

    "Wontons?" She smiled yfully: "Been ages since I had them."

    "Let��s go." Gu Juntao took her hand. Sun Chan was slightly shy, but Gu Junming never let go, just walked together with him. They went to a decently sized restaurant.

    "Not here, it��s too expensive," Sun Chan tugged at Gu Junming.

    Gu Junming chuckled: "It��s alright, I just got my stipend, treating you to a good meal."

    He led Sun Chan inside, ordered two bowls of wonton, and a few dishes from the menu. A mix of meat and vegetables,stly ordering braised pork and two bowls of rice.

    Sun Chanughed: "You��re trying to fatten me up because I��m so thin?"

    "Yeah, seeing you so thin is painful, don��t worry about money, it can be earned again, you must eat well."

    "I wasn��t worried about the money! Justzy to go out and buy food," Sun Chan smiled.

    "What are you talking about? Eating is the most important thing. What if you��re too tired?" He ruffled Sun Chan��s hair.

    Sun Chan awkwardlyughed, it had been exhausting these days, selling clothes during the day and reading at night. There were hardly any hours left for rest.

    Once the waiter left, Gu Junming momentarily didn��t know what to say, just kept holding her hand with a smile.

    Sun Chan smiled back, feeling really happy to be with him.

    The food was served, and Sun Chan noticed the portions were especiallyrge, the table seemed overflowing with dishes, really quite extravagant.

    Embarrassed, she said: "That��s too much, we can��t finish it."

    "Whatever leftovers, we��ll take home." Gu Junming picked up a piece of garlic ribs: "Try this, let me know if more is needed."

    "No more, too greasy," Sun Chan hurriedly waved her hand: "Don��t buy anymore."

    Gu Junming then served her a piece of cold cabbage sd.

    Sun Chan pursed her lips with a smile and began to eat. They were both hungry, but after barely finishing half the dishes, Gu Junming asked for stic bags to pack the rest for dinner.

    Sun Chan and Gu Junming returned to the hotel together, and on the way, she asked about Wang Shufen��s situation.

 Chapter 234 Shared Accommodation

    <h4>Chapter 234: Chapter 234 Shared Amodation</h4>

    Originally, ever since Ding Quan��s incident, the Ding Family parents have been secretlyining, spreading lies, saying that the people in Gu Junming��s family went too far, using Gu Junming��s status as a soldier to bully others, which forced Ding Quan to take desperate measures.

    Moreover, the children in the vige mocked Ding Kang, saying his father didn��t do honest work and sold his child or something, that there was no good in being jailed. So his child must be the same, some even threw stones at him.

    Wang Shufen felt she couldn��t stay any longer. Several times she saw her son with the vige children, rushed over to defend him, only to be bumped by the other parents, resulting in constant arguments between both sides. Being a divorced woman, Wang Shufen had always been talked about, coupled with her kindness, she couldn��t argue well with others. Returning home, she fell seriously ill.

    The elderly of the Wang Family also didn��t want the child to continue being bullied, so they decided to call Gu Junming. They asked Wang Shufen to go seek refuge with Sun Chan earlier. Gu Junming thought it was a good opportunity to help Sun Chan, so he invited Wang Shufen over.

    Sun Chan nodded: "No problem. But can she manage? Actually, I was thinking of having her look after the fruit stall first. After all, she��s from a vige, not very willing to speak. It took me a long time to push myself to dare to speak." She felt Wang Shufen wasn��t a very talkative person.

    "Don��t worry. My eldest sister used to go out to the market in the vige, selling some insoles and vegetables, or something. It��s counted as selling. You just tell her the lowest price, and she can just watch over the sales. Then you can pay her a little sry every day, and when the busy time��s over, take her back to X City."

    Sun Chan nodded: "Alright. I��ll also try toe back earlier."

    The two chatted while talking, returned to the hostel where Sun Chan lived. Sun Chan freshened up briefly, feeling very exhausted.

    But then a problem arose.

    Gu Junming asked around, and there were no empty rooms here. Going to another hotel was too far, and Sun Chan was reluctant to let him leave.

    "Do you... want to sleep here? We can squeeze a bit." She felt a bit embarrassed.

    Gu Junming smiled: "Alright, let��s sleep here then. It��s okay, no one knows us here. No need to worry about gossip. Don��t be nervous."

    Sun Chan bit her lip, blushing, remembering the troubles caused by Yang Yun��sments before, feeling a bit scared. But she didn��t want Gu Junming to leave like that either.

    He touched Sun Chan��s cheek: "Don��t worry, I won��t touch you."

    "No, I��m not worried about that..."

    Gu Junming smiled: "Sleep. I don��t care about these things." After all, not many people are like Bai Fann and Yang Yun.

    Sun Chan got into bed first, scooted over to make space for Gu Junming, leaving most of the space for him. She turned her back to him, pretending to be calm. But when Gu Junming got in too, she felt a bit anxious. He leaned against the edge of the bed, the bed legs creaking, then ced a hand on her shoulder, gently patting.

    "Alright, sleep."

    Sun Chan responded with a hum, hesitated for a moment, then turned and nestled closer to Gu Junming. His scent was pleasant, she sniffed like a little dog.

    Gu Junming stiffened all over but then smiled and held her: "Do you like this smell?"

    "Mm, I really like it."

    "Sleep now." He kissed her hair.

    The two hugged each other, quickly falling asleep.

    Sun Chan was very tired and slept deeply, while Gu Junming breathed in her gentle girl-like aroma, her hair carrying the scent of blossoms. He felt some fluttering of heart, tightened his grip on her hand but restrained his desire to kiss her, quickly falling asleep.

    Sun Chan was used to waking up early. When she woke, Gu Junming��s face was right before hers. She couldn��t help but move closer to peck his nose.

    Gu Junming had already awakened but didn��t move, allowing her lips to continue kissing down his nose.

    Sun Chan raised her head, seeing his eyes open, awkwardly backed away: "You��re awake?"

    "Did you kiss me?"

    "Mm, don��t be mad." Her face turned as red as a baboon��s behind.

    Gu Junmingughed softly, hugged her closer, pressed his lips against her reddened lips, and they kissed passionately.

    After a long, long time, Gu Junming finally released Sun Chan. He suppressed his thought of being with Sun Chan, breathing softly.

    Sun Chan��s touch encountered his leg, and her face instantly turned red, sitting up at the bed��s edge, coughing awkwardly: "I��ll go get some water, let��s freshen up."

    Gu Junming also felt a bit awkward and got up to wash his face.

    After tidying up, the two calmed down; they heated up the leftover food fromst night with the hostel owner, had a simple meal, then headed to the station to pick up Wang Shufen.

    When they arrived, they saw Wang Shufen squatting by the station entrance, wiping her tears, while Ding Kang patted her back soothingly.

    They exchanged a look, then walked over.

    "What��s wrong, big sister?" Gu Junming asked.

    Wang Shufen wore a worn purple jacket, its sleeves frayed at the edges, looking very old. Her hair was messily tied, appearing much more haggardpared to before the New Year. Her life didn��t seem to be going well. Beside her, she had a red cloth bundle, a rare sight now. Compared with the vibrant and youthful people around, she appeared quite disheveled.

    "Big sister, what��s wrong?"

    Wang Shufen wiped her tears: "It��s nothing, don��t worry."

    Ding Kang said: "My mom met an aunt just now; she called my mom a jinx."

    Gu Junming frowned: "Who would chase you here and talk nonsense?"

    "Ran into her by chance, just a rtive of Ding Quan. It��s nothing now."

    Ding Kang said: "They called my mom shameless, said she��s a jinx! Said whoever she marries, they��ll have bad luck, divorced a hundred times..."

    "Enough!" Wang Shufen patted her son��s head: "Don��t talk about it anymore. I��ve forgotten it." She stood up, smiling at Gu Junming and Sun Chan: "In the vige, that��s how they curse divorced women. I��m used to it, but felt wronged when I fought with Ding Quan��s parents before leaving. Clearly, their son did something illegal, yet I��m the one being cursed."

    "Sis, arguing with such unreasonable people isn��t worth it. Since they don��t make sense over there, don��t go back. There are plenty of opportunities in the city; you can live here with Ding Kang."

    "Okay, I also want to see if there are opportunities in the city. I��m bringing my son; I hope it��s not a bother."

    "Sis, don��t say that, we��re family. I��ll help find a boarding school for Ding Kang so he can study there. You just need to focus on earning money." Gu Junming said.

 Chapter 235 Kind Woman

    <h4>Chapter 235: Chapter 235 Kind Woman</h4>

    Wang Shufen quickly agreed, boarding school is good, saves her from being with me, constantly moving and suffering, and I can��t read much, can��t help the child.

    Sun Chan mentioned the idea of having her sell clothes, Wang Shufen was very happy: "I can do it! Leave it to me, no problem."

    Gu Junming said, "Sis, why don��t youe with me to the hotel and rest a bit first?"

    "No need. I heard you��re going back to X City, just take me to the stall directly, I don��t want to waste your time. Kangkang and I haven��t been on the bus for long, we��re not tired."

    Wang Shufen kept insisting, so the two of them had to take them to the mall.

    Sun Chan exined the techniques of selling clothes, wasn��t expecting her to sell them too well, just gave her the minimum price for each clothing, whatever she could sell was fine, mainly wanted her to help watch the stall.

    Wang Shufen listened attentively and replied with a smile: "I��ve sold clothes before, even if I��m not good with words, some people like me being genuine, because I don��t lie, it makes business easier, don��t worry, I��ll make sure to watch over things for you."

    "That��s good. Han Dong should be able toe in the next couple of days, and then we��ll leave it to him." Sun Chan smiled.

    Wang Shufen agreed, and Ding Kang was very well-behaved, staying aside and not having the habit of touching things randomly.

    Sun Chan picked out a white shirt and ck skirt for Wang Shufen: "Elder Sister, you wear this."

    "No, no..." She waved her hand in panic, "I��d rather not wear it."

    "Don��t be so polite. Just wear it, it gives you more credibility when selling clothes."

    Wang Shufen also felt a bit embarrassed since her own clothing was too shabby.

    Sun Chan pulled the curtain for her, letting Wang Shufen change inside. When she came out, not only Sun Chan, but even Gu Junming was taken aback.

    "Sis! You look great in this outfit!"

    She had a great figure, and with her hair tidied and a change of clothes, she looked quite stylish and much younger.

    Ding Kang also pped: "Mom, you look really pretty!"

    Sun Chan smiled and said, "This outfit is a gift for Elder Sister. There are suitable clothes here, feel free to wear them. You should wear nice clothes when you��re young."

    "No need, this set is enough for me. You��re in a partnership with others." She felt a bit shy; she had never worn such pretty clothes.

    Sun Chanughed and said, "Elder Sister, don��t be shy, we��re family. To be honest, I��ve already made back the cost of these clothes, so any sales now are pure profit. I can afford to give Elder Sister clothes fitted just for you."

    She knew Wang Shufen would be too embarrassed to take them herself, so she simply picked two more sets for Wang Shufen, one beige, the other a gray suit dress, both very suitable for her.

    Seeing that Sun Chan was sincere, Wang Shufen epted them.

    Sun Chan and Gu Junming stayed for two more hours, noticing that she was indeed quite good at speaking, and customers who came to look at clothes liked Wang Shufen, who couldmunicate particrly well with older women, much better than Sun Chan and Han Dong, which reassured them.

    Sun Chan arranged for Wang Shufen to stay in a room she had booked at the hotel, which they had rented for a month anyway, so it was free space. Wang Shufen dropped them off at the store entrance with her son and then went back.

    Sun Chan felt a bit guilty: "I went to Shenzhen and didn��t think to buy Elder Sister a piece of clothing."

    "It��s okay. I went to Shenzhen too and didn��t think to buy them anything either."

    "You��re different from me; aren��t you busy?"

    They chatted while making their way to the station, Gu Junming went to buy tickets, and Sun Chan found a spot to sit down.

    She was staring into the crowd outside when suddenly she felt a sharp pain in her shoulder, and someone pressed hard against her, causing Sun Chan to frown in pain.

    "Who is it?"

    A girl in a green dress was leaning heavily on Sun Chan. Sun Chan struggled and finally stood up.

    Seeing who it was, Sun Chan was stunned to find it was someone she knew, Su Miao.

    Su Miao was fighting with another woman, also a familiar face: Su Jinxiu. Behind them were Su Miao��s parents, Su Minjian and Ding Qiuyue, both with sullen expressions,ing over to separate the two. They were all carrying a load of luggage, clearly just returning.

    Su Minjian was holding a child, the son Su Jinxiu had given birth to.

    Unlike a few months ago when the child was wrapped tightly, now he only had a thin nket and was crying loudly, but nobody seemed to care about him.

    Ding Qiuyue rushed over to pull Su Jinxiu apart: "Stop fighting! Isn��t it embarrassing enough?"

    Su Jinxiu angrily replied, "Why are you taking sides? Embarrassing? I didn��t seduce anyone��s uncle, nor did I stick to someone because they��re rich, why say I��m embarrassing!"

    Ding Qiuyue angrily replied, "Aren��t you done? My daughter lost her job, is humiliated, and got beaten by your husband, isn��t that enough? What do you want for this to end?"

    "Your daughter having bad luck ends it? What about me? I��ve been dumped by my husband, I��m divorced, what should I do now? If it weren��t for Su Miao, would I be in such bad luck?" she screamed.

    "You all stop arguing! Shut up, all of you!" Su Minjian was truly on the edge, one was his daughter, the other his biological sister, and they were fighting like this, calling for more trouble with those disgusting rumors, how could one not be angry!

    Su Miao didn��t care, she stood up, tidying her messy hair, and only then did Su Miao notice the triangr scar on her forehead, feeling it was quite odd, what happened?

    Su Miao said, "You chose to marry such a nasty person, aren��t you aware? Stop ming others for everything, alright? Zhao Yingjun is such a thug, you treat him like a treasure, I don��t care at all, seeing him makes me sick! I didn��t do anything with him, why do you keep pestering me? Even if I have no shame, I only flirted with Yang Family people, your divorce is your problem, nothing to do with me, serves you right!"

    "Su Miao! You bitch, hooked my husband to arrange a job for you, climbed up on him, and you have the nerve to say this, I��ll fight you, you bitch!" Su Jinxiu charged at her. Su Miao wrestled with her. Ding Qiuyue decided to join in to help, couldn��t let her daughter suffer alone!

    Sun Chan stood at a distance, slightly frowning, what exactly happened here? Gu Junming returned from buying the tickets, stunned.

    He instinctively grabbed Sun Chan��s hand, pulling her farther away: "What��s happening?"

    "Not sure, seems like they��re fighting because of Zhao Yingjun."

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 236: Struggle

    <h4>Chapter 236: Chapter 236: Struggle</h4>

    "Stop fighting! All of you, stop!" But Su Minjian shouted for a long time, and none of them listened to him!

    He could only grip his hair and sit on the long bench. The child was crying nearby, but he couldn��t be bothered. It was truly depressing!

    Su Miao was fighting viciously with Su Jinxiu, leaving multiple bloody marks on Su Jinxiu��s face with a few scratches. Her hair was also pulled out by Su Jinxiu in clumps, and her clothes were torn.

    Qiuyue was helping from the sidelines, so Su Jinxiu was seriously injured, and Su Miao pped her hard several times.

    Su Jinxiu screamed, "You bitch, I��ll fight to the death with you!" She rushed at the two women like a hungry tiger, and Ding Qiuyue cried out in pain from being hit. Su Miao lunged forward to pull her hair, kicking Su Jinxiu down to the ground. Su Jinxiu tripped up, and Ding Qiuyue and Su Miao also fell to the ground together. In an instant, the three of them were rolling on the ground and swearing at each other.

    The chaos was iprehensible; everyone around was watching the spectacle, and even the iron police came to separate them.

    "You��re being hit! Why can��t you resolve your conflicts at home?"

    "Let go! Release me!"

    "No, this shameless thing, let go of me first! You bitch!" Su Jinxiu kicked Su Miao hard in the stomach.

    "You damn woman, stop bullying my daughter!" Ding Qiuyue yelled as she went to grab her arm, but ended up being bitten hard on the arm by Su Jinxiu.

    Several people couldn��t separate them.

    Su Miao was right in the middle of the fight when she inadvertently looked up and saw Sun Chan standing over there. Her heart skipped a beat as she looked behind her, and sure enough, saw Gu Junming standing just behind her.

    She felt so disheartened; she was so pretty, yet a familiar face saw her in such a disheveled state. But there was nothing she could do now. It was already a fight. Anyway, worse things had happened before. But there was no point in continuing this fight, so she kicked Su Jinxiu away and pulled her mother up to stand.

    The three women stood there fixing their hair, asionally cursing each other.

    Sun Chan said, "Is this because of the Yang Family affair?"

    "I guess so; but there was no news when I left," Gu Junming didn��t know what was going on.

    Su Minjian came over at this time. Last time, they helped him find the child, he naturally had to greet them.

    Gu Junming said, "Uncle, what was itst time?"

    Su Minjian scratched his head, squatted down: "Misfortunes in the family!"

    It turned out Zhao Jieyun had gathered all the witnesses and evidence, and when Su Miao��s parents arrived, she told them the situation. Ding Qiuyue refused to admit it, saying her daughter, who wasdylike and virtuous, couldn��t possibly use someone falsely. It must be that the couple agreed not to divorce!

    "We definitely can��t leave it like this! In the countryside, when something like this happens, we must have a resolution! I don��t care what your problem is; you must give me an exnation for my daughter!" She pointed at Father Yang: "I don��t even mind your age! What else can you say? If you don��t take responsibility, I won��t let you off!"

    But Su Minjian said, "Hold on! Meet your daughter first."

    Zhao Jieyun said: "Yes, let��s put all reasoning out in the open."

    "What do you want to say? ying with my daughter��s emotions, what do you say that��s worth listening to?" Ding Qiuyue pointed at Father Yang. She said to Zhao Jieyun: "Your husband did such disgraceful things and still expects us to speak well of him? That shameless man! He thinks relying on his daughter will help? It��s embarrassing!"

    Father Yang remained silent, shrunk inside his shell without saying anything, relying entirely on his wife to step up.

    Zhao Jieyun looked at her indifferently: "I have always been reasonable. Between a man and a woman, it��s not necessarily true that only the man suffers. You��d better calm down. If making a scene worked, there��d be no need for the police station. Also think about your daughter��s reputation, if this esctes, we definitely lose face, but your family gains nothing from it. This is not the countryside; it��s the city, where reasoning prevails over volume."

    Ding Qiuyue was pressed by Zhao Jieyun��s aura, unable to speak, gritting her teeth for a long time, she turned and left. Su Minjian sighed and followed to the hospital. Su Miao was still dreaming of marrying into the Yang Family, yet who knew Zhao Jieyun would bring her husband and parents to the hospital room.

    Initially, she pretended to be calm: "I��m already his woman, I want to marry him."

    But Zhao Jieyun just smiled, ced the bottle beside the bed: "This should be what you took from the factory; this is what makes people drowsy. I��ve already had my husband examined, and the substance was found in his body. You gave this to my husband; if examined, you shouldn��t have had any rtions with him."

    "Even if we didn��t... but he still behaved indecently with me!"

    Zhao Jieyun chuckled lightly: "Do you know what forensic investigation means? Ever heard of forensic science? When one person contacts another, there will be traces. Although it��s been two days, if examined it can certainly be found out. Were you wearing those clothes that day? My husband still has the clothes from that day, they��ve been examined. If he touched you, nobody can hide, but if nothing happened, there��s no use falsely using him. I suggest you be smart."

    Su Miao didn��t understand these things, but it all seemed profound and mysterious. If this is how it is, wouldn��t she be unable to marry him? How malicious he is, it��s unwillingness! But now it��s probably useless.

    Father Yang said on the side: "I��m not afraid, I��ve done nothing, I won��t marry you!"

    Ding Qiuyue burst into tears, while Su Minjian wished he could yank his daughter off the bed to beat her to death!

    Su Miao bit her lips: "What evidence proves it was me who did it? Maybe he set it up!"

    "Even now you still want to argue? Your coworkers have already testified, they saw you take a bottle from the workshop with their own eyes, this thing was found in the house Zhao Yingjun rented for you, my husband doesn��t even know where you live."

    Su Miao anxiously said: "No, clearly he bullied me..."

    "Su Miao, do you know what it means to falsely use a soldier? You��ll face a military court, you��ll go to jail. All the evidence now proves you tried to climb high by falsely using him; do you still want to argue? Once in prison, convicted women never have a good end, really don��t consider your future?" Zhao Jieyun looked at her coolly.

    "You damn girl! Disgraceful wretch, I should just kill you!" Su Minjian seeing his daughter��s expression knew exactly what��s happening. This was definitely trying to climb high and being rejected! In his heart, he felt shame and anger, how could he raise such a shameless daughter, devoid of any decency!

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 237: Complete Fallout

    <h4>Chapter 237: Chapter 237: Complete Fallout</h4>

    Su Minjian tried several times to rush over and hit someone, but was stopped by Ding Qiuyue. Though she was unhappy, she couldn��t bear to see her daughter beaten.

    All he could do was gasp and say, "It��s no use talking about it now. It��s our fault for not educating our daughter well. Please forgive her."

    Zhao Jieyun nodded, "Alright, parents have a tough heart, I forgive her."

    Su Miao, however, gritted her teeth and shouted, "Your daughter beat me like this. I won��t let it go! Give me ten thousand yuan! I want her in jail to suffer for a lifetime!"

    "You little brat... you��re still like this..." Su Minjian almost fainted, and Ding Qiuyue clung tightly to his waist. She understood her daughter��s thoughts and didn��t find anything wrong. Who wouldn��t want to take a further step?

    Zhao Jieyun wasn��t in a hurry, simply smiled lightly: "Yes, just because my daughter hit you, I��m speaking calmly with you; otherwise, I��d have sent you to prison already! Now I��ll be frank with you. If you don��t pursue my daughter��s responsibility, I won��t pursue your nder against my husband. Additionally, I��ll give you five hundred yuan aspensation. After all, the wound on your face was indeed caused by my daughter. Let��s leave it at that. If you keep pestering my husband, we��ll handle things formally! My daughter injuring you warrants detention at most; your nder against my husband damages military integrity, resulting in at least ten years�� imprisonment. Think about it."

    Seeing Zhao Jieyun��s cold eyes, Su Miao was at a loss for words. This woman was indeed formidable, and she had a premonition she couldn��t win against her...

    Yet she was truly unwilling; her step to riches and glory was thwarted!

    Su Minjian��s eyes almost popped out, and he shouted loudly, "Won��t you admit your mistake? Do you want me to beat you to death?"

    Ding Qiuyue pulled her arm, whispered, "Enough! Stop fighting, daughter! This fortune isn��t ours, just ept it."

    Zhao Jieyun heard and replied, "This isn��t fortune. It��s something that isn��t yours being deceitfully seized, and even if temporarily acquired, it won��t end well. What��s mine, I will defend to the end. Otherwise, wait for awsuit."

    Su Miao felt endless hatred, but had no choice. After thinking it over, she reluctantlypromised, covered her face, and sobbed. She just wanted some benefits! But in the end, she had to settle for five hundred yuan and left the hospital with her parents.

    During this, Father Yang said nothing, and the two parties signed an agreement not to mention the matter or pursue Yang Yun��s responsibility. Signatures and handprints were given, and then Father Yang handed Su Miao five hundred yuan, leaving with Zhao Jieyun without looking back.

    Su Miao watched Father Yang��s back, clenching her teeth in hatred.

    Su Minjian was utterly disappointed with this daughter.

    He scolded her and then insisted on taking Su Miao home that night. He wouldn��t let her stay in the city any longer, fearing what trouble she��d cause!

    He figured since it hadn��t materialized, they��d return to the vige and casually find someone for her to marry! That would stop her from plotting.

    As soon as Zhao Yingjun learned she was leaving, he couldn��t sit still and wanted to go find Su Miao to settle ounts.

    However, Su Jinxiu thought he wanted to continue flirting with Su Miao. Her heart ignited, pointing at him and shouting, "Have some dignity! When did that bitch ever like you or take you seriously? She just sees you as a fool to use, stepping on your head to climb up. Yet now you still want to be with her; do you have no shame? Disgusting to the core!"

    "Shut up!" Zhao Yingjun shouted, "I never said I wanted to be with her!"

    "Stop the nonsense; everyone has dignity. I know what you want to do! You just wish to keep cozying up to her. I��m telling you, you��re delusional! I��m sticking with you for life; see if you dare to be with someone else."

    Zhao Yingjun sat down again, not really nning anything. Who knew Su Jinxiu, holding the child, wouldn��t stop cursing, proudly saying things that triggered Zhao Yingjun: things like wanting to kneel and wash feet for someone who doesn��t want you, sending money and things they despise, a toad wanting to eat swan meat, shamelessly unting himself, only to be harshly rejected by Su Miao, not considering the contempt...

    Zhao Yingjun waspletely enraged, walked over and pped Ding Qiuyue several times: "Divorce! I can��t live with you anymore! Su Miao may not like me, but I love her! She has a slim waist, looks good,pletely different from you, a big fat pig. Why shouldn��t I like her? You foul woman, if you hadn��t driven her away, this wouldn��t have happened!"

    Su Jinxiu was about to go mad, shouting with a rigid neck, "I won��t divorce even if I die! You can kill me if you dare!"

    "Hmph!" Zhao Yingjun��s corner of the mouth curved: "Let��s see if I can divorce!" He finished speaking, grabbed his clothes, and walked out.

    Su Jinxiu initially wasn��t worried, thinking she��d given birth to his son, not even a year old. He could hardly do anything to her!

    But who knew Zhao Yingjun preserved a love letter written by Sun Jinxiu to a then ssmate, shameful in its content. More severely, that ssmate was already married at the time. Known by his wife, the letter was returned to her. Zhao Yingjun discovered it after marrying her, kept it.

    Su Jinxiu wasn��t a virgin when with him, which Zhao Yingjun acknowledged then without caring. But now, wanting a divorce, he surely cared.

    He took it out, not clearly marking the date, iming shemitted adultery during marriage.

    Su Jinxiu wailed and caused chaos multiple times, but since the evidence existed, and Zhao Yingjun found someone to help, the divorce papers were easily settled. Su Jinxiu almost lost her mind, afterpleting the divorce, found her husband rented out the house and moved elsewhere, unable to find him.

    Su Jinxiu grabbed Zhao Yingjun��s cor at his unit, crying, berating, and hitting.

    Zhao Yingjun couldn��t care less: "It��s already a done deal; if you don��t cause trouble, I can give you more. If you persist, not a penny."

    Su Jinxiu knew she couldn��t change anything and calmed down.

    Zhao Yingjun initially wanted custody of the son, but Su Jinxiu refused: "You asshole! You dumped me and still want the child? I will never give him to you!"

    "Alright, if you have the ability to support him, go ahead. Rest assured, I��m not heartless; I��ll provide alimony. You should also improve your bad temper if remarrying; your looks are forgiving, but your personality is unbearable to anyone."

 Chapter 238: How to Retaliate

    <h4>Chapter 238: Chapter 238: How to Retaliate</h4>

    Zhao Yingjun thought to himself, "You don��t want to give me a child, and I don��t care. I can easily find a woman to have a child with. I have a job and a house; I don��t need to care. But I won��t let the matter with Su Miao slide."

    He was filled with jealousy and hatred, nning to seize the chance for revenge.

    Su Jinxiu had taken all the savings from the house, but Zhao Yingjun didn��t begrudge her for it.

    But for a vige woman, divorce is a disgrace, especially when she had been so arrogant about marrying a city man. She could imagine how people would ridicule her.

    Still, she decided to find her brother.

    She thought: "I have nothing now because of that bitch Su Miao, so why should she have a good life? I��ll entangle with you every day. My marriage failed; I won��t allow Su Miao to marry into a good family!"

    With a heart full of vengeance, she followed along, causing a storm along the way.

    Su Miao and Su Jinxiupletely tore into each other, speaking without mercy, and Su Jinxiu said whatever hurtful things she could think of. Su Jinxiu called Su Miao a slut, a shameless trollop.

    Su Miao retaliated by calling Su Jinxiu a sow, shameless, a discarded woman.

    Ding Qiuyue sided with her daughter.

    Su Minjian tried to mediate, but it was useless. As soon as they arrived at the station, another fight broke out, witnessed by Sun Chan and Gu Junming.

    Su Jinxiu cried, "Dear brother! I��m wronged! My husband was seduced by Su Miao, and now my family is ruined. Is there any end to this kind of life?"

    "Shut up! If you couldn��t keep your husband, what does that have to do with me? Even if I did seduce someone, it wasn��t him. He was the one who shamelessly approached me. I avoid him as much as I can; why would I be with him? We are a family, why tarnish my name?" Su Miao said coldly.

    Enraged, Su Jinxiu tried to hit her but was stopped by Su Minjian: "Enough! Stop hitting each other! Isn��t this embarrassing enough?"

    Sun Chan said, "You all should resolve this matter properly. You��re all family, why let it escte like this?"

    "Do we need you to y the good person? You whore! Now that you��ve seduced a man, you think you��re better than everyone?" Su Miao sneered at Sun Chan; "Indeed, winners are kings and losers are bandits!"

    Sun Chan frowned but kept silent, unwilling to argue with this woman.

    Gu Junming was also unhappy: "What are you talking about? When did Sun Chan ever seduce me? Watch your words!"

    "Gu Junming! You can��t pretend not to know I liked you. We were acquainted first, and there was a chance between us! You just like seductive whores with a facade of innocence, but deep down, nothing is too shameless..."

    "Shut up!" Su Minjian pped his daughter to the ground. Being a farmer who worked tirelessly in the vige year-round, his strength was immense. The p left Su Miao��s ears buzzing and stars fluttering before her eyes.

    "Say one more word, and I��ll beat you to death!" Su Minjian shouted.

    Gu Junming said, "We��re all from the same vige. Su Miao is upset and speaks carelessly. I don��t want to argue, but I hope she doesn��t speak like this again next time. Otherwise, I won��t let it go."

    "Yes, I understand, it��s my daughter��s fault." Su Minjian was deeply ashamed.

    During New Year, when the child was lost, Gu Junming couldn��t even celebrate properly as he helped search. Who would have thought that the young girl harbored such filthy intentions and even insulted her suitor��s partner to their face. What is all this?

    Su Miao bit her lip and gave Sun Chan a fierce look. It��s all because of this woman. If she hadn��t snatched Gu Junming away, would I be so humiliated?

    Su Jinxiu had been watching the drama and couldn��t help butugh: "Serves you right! I��ll remember this, and when you return to the vige, I won��t let you enjoy peaceful days. I��ll tell all about your city antics. Let��s see how you could live in the vige, who would want you then?"

    Su Miao yelled, "You shameless bitch! You were the one who drove me out from your family. If not for you, would I be this unfortunate? You deserved to be divorced!"

    "Shut up!"

    "You shut up! If she suffers, what benefit will it bring you? If you want to live peacefully in the vige, behave yourself, or I won��t care about you either!" Su Minjian shouted.

    Both Su Jinxiu and Su Miao stayed silent, ring at each other.

    Su Minjian turned to Gu Junming, "You go ahead with your business. We��ll sit here and wait for the bus back to the vige."

    Gu Junming nodded, took Sun Chan by the hand, and walked aside.

    The two groups went in different directions, sitting in their seats without a word. The child was left unattended, crying for a long time before falling asleep.

    Sun Chan looked with pity, thinking that back then, I was also so young when left by the well, wasn��t I?

    No father or mother, Zhao Xiuxia might have been excessive, but she did raise me. Otherwise, I��d have been long dead by now, unable to have lived two lifetimes.

    The child��s parents are divorced, and the mother doesn��t seem to care much. No one else cares either.

    Not long after, Su Jinxiu needed to use the restroom and mentioned it to her brother before leaving.

    Su Miao, still seated, gazed at the child. A surge of hatred arose in her heart; if it wasn��t for her aunt��s pregnancy, resulting in a son, they wouldn��t have been so arrogant, expelling me from Zhao Yingjun��s ce, from the vige, and losing Gu Junming to Sun Chan, my life has been miserable since! Upon meeting Zhao Yingjun, things only got worse!

    This time, I definitely can��t let things go!

    If I return to the vige, what good will that do? Even if I didn��t want to marry someone from the vige, if I did, Su Jinxiu��s mouth wouldn��t spare me! The vige gossip would chase away anyone interested in marrying me.

    She thought, I might as well take the child back to Zhao Yingjun. It��s a simple life; I wouldn��t return to the vige no matter what.

    Having been fired from that factory, can Zhao Yingjun help me find another job if I ask? If he doesn��t agree, I could sell the child! That would also get me some money.

    She nced at the child again, her eyes fierce.

    Sun Chan was tidying her clothes and noticed Su Miao��s hostile gaze, pulling Gu Junming aside: "Look at Su Miao��s eyes. Would she hurt the child?"

    But just at that moment, a flood of people queued to enter the station, rudely pushing them aside, blocking their viewpletely. Gu Junming stood up and looked around.

    He wondered aloud, "Where is she? I didn��t see her at all."

 Chapter 239: Escaping with the Child

    <h4>Chapter 239: Chapter 239: Escaping with the Child</h4>

    At this moment, Su Miao watched her parents pack their luggage, picked up the child, then turned directly towards the crowd, blending in, and boarded a train.

    She was not taking a train back to X City; she nned to get off at the nearest stop, and would just buy a supplement ticket onboard.

    Once Su Minjian and Ding Qiuyue finished tidying up, they realized their daughter was gone.

    Su Jinxiu also returned from the restroom, saw the two of them looking around, and urgently asked, "Brother? Where is my child?"

    "I don��t know! In just a blink of an eye, Su Miao was gone! Did she take the child with her?"

    Su Jinxiu screamed and grabbed Ding Qiuyue by the cor, pping her several times: "Give me back my child, your shameless daughter, where is she taking my child!!"

    Ding Qiuyue was also helpless, sweating profusely on her forehead, not caring about being hit: "Did she go back to X City? Want to find Zhao Yingjun?"

    "Ahh! This shameless wretch!" Su Jinxiu screamed, pulling her hair. She rushed toward the entrance but was stopped by the ticket inspector since without a ticket she couldn��t enter. Moreover, the train had already left.

    Su Jinxiu shouted, "Someone has taken my son! Save my son. Will Su Miao strangle him? My son..." She rolled her eyes and fainted on the spot.

    The entire station was thrown into chaos once more, and Ding Qiuyue and Su Minjian rushed over.

    Su Jinxiu didn��t just faint; half of her body was twitching, and there were traces of blood from her nose, with foam at her mouth, indicating it was serious.

    "Jinxiu!" Su Minjian cried urgently, "Wake up! What��s going on?"

    Gu Junming and Sun Chan arrived, and upon seeing her, Sun Chan immediately said, "She needs to be taken to the hospital! I used to work as a nurse aid; this looks like a cerebral hemorrhage, very serious, you guys must get her to a hospital quickly."

    "But my daughter and her son..." Ding Qiuyue kept crying, tears and snot all over, who knew it woulde to this; why couldn��t that dead girl just behave herself and not cause such a big issue!

    Sun Chan said, "If she went back to find Zhao Yingjun, we will look for them, don��t worry, if we get any news, we will call back to the vigemittee and tell you."

    "Yes, you should go back." Gu Junming looked at Su Jinxiu, who was already quite overweight and now with such stress, her body shaking continuously. Who knows if she��ll recover?

    Su Minjian really wanted to go with them to find their daughter, but upon seeing his wife, he just couldn��t manage Su Jinxiu alone, so he had to stay.

    He held onto Gu Junming: "Thank you! I... I really have nothing to say!"

    "Don��t worry." Gu Junming replied, "I��m a soldier; I should help the vigers. Besides, we are from the same vige, it��s only right for me to do this."

    Su Minjian nodded, having no time to say more, and helped his wife guide his sister out.

    Time was about right, so Sun Chan and Gu Junming promptly caught a ride back to X City.

    Once on the car, Sun Chan asked Gu Junming, "Which train did she board just now?"

    "That train��s first stop is to Feng City. But that��s close to X City, so I think she��ll get off at the next stop and transfer to a bus for X City. We can just wait at Zhao Yingjun��s home or work."

    "Okay."

    "Sun Chan, are you upset? That I actually took on such a difficult matter."

    Gu Junming felt uneasy, considering how bad Su Miao was.

    Sun Chan smiled and said, "Why would I be upset? Considering my own background, I��m just worried about that child suffering. Regardless, the child is rted to Su Miao, hopefully he won��t suffer, right?"

    Gu Junming shook his head: "I think not, but Su Miao is such a person, it��s hard to say."

    Even being young, she acted very ruthlessly, capable of anything without concern for appearances or consequences, a heartless person, and now she��s enemies with Su Jinxiu too.

    "But on the train, I don��t think she can make a move, we must hurry."

    Sun Chan thought, it��s a pity they didn��t have a mobile phone, otherwise they could have someone waiting on the tform to intercept her.

    Although earlier they talked to the on-board police, their response was that since it was family, it should be fine. They didn��t care, and their attitude was perfunctory, so they just left it at that.

    When they reached X City, they first went to Zhao Yingjun��s office, but Zhao had taken the day off, so they hurried to Zhao Yingjun��s home, only to find it rented out; someone else opened the door, leaving them quite helpless.

    They returned to the office and told the gatekeeper: "When Zhao Yingjun returns, tell him that Su Miao brought his son back, so he should be cautious."

    Gu Junming still felt uneasy, thinking about going to the Feng City station to ask. Su Miao hadn��t cared for a child before, what if by ident the child got hurt?

    Sun Chan said, "Then I��ll go to the hospital by myself, you be careful,e back early."

    "Thank you. If Wang Guihua says anything to you, just bear with it." Gu Junming thought, I am really busy enough!

    "I understand, don��t worry." Sun Chan pulled his hand lightly.

    Gu Junming smiled and touched her cheek, then left directly.

    Sun Chan sighed, you handle your affairs, I still have to meet your stepmother, which is also a daunting task.

    She first went to her fruit stand, since it was on the way and happened to see Yang Liu arranging fruit inside. Upon seeing Sun Chan, Yang Liu quickly smiled and waved: "How did it go!"

    Sun Chan said, "Not well, Gu Junming��s stepmother is sick, and I need to go see her."

    "Don��t be so upset, business has been goodtely. When Han Dong came over, he even sent some pineapples, they sold really well!" she said with a smile.

    Sun Chan said, "Thank you so much."

    "Don��t mention it. Shall I give you the money and the ount book?" she said, about to fetch the book.

    Sun Chan held her shoulder down: "No need, I��ll see the stepmother first, we can settle it when Ie back."

    "Alright. You don��t look too well. Take care."

    "I know, I truly don��t want to go." Sun Chan gave her a helpless smile.

    Yang Liu nodded: "I understand you. I also don��t want to go home, just like you. Want to bring some fruit along?"

    "Sure, give me those Guoguang apples." Sun Chan leaned against the side, toozy to move, really tired.

    Actually, good-looking ones aren��t necessarily the best, the best are those Guoguang apples, though small and dim in color, they taste tart and sweet and are expensive.

    But Yang Liu said, "Trust me, you should take those big and red ones instead. Otherwise, people will think you��re just giving away unsble bad apples, and you might end up being resented instead of appreciated."

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 240: Meeting Face to Face

    <h4>Chapter 240: Chapter 240: Meeting Face to Face</h4>

    "Got it, you seem to understand better than I do. Just grab something for me." Sun Chan yawned; she was truly exhausted these past few days. Selling things, doing ounts, studying �� she was dead tired. At the station, she just wanted to catch a nap, but then something like this happens. Just thinking about having to take care of Wang Guihua was already giving her a headache.

    Yang Liuforted, "It��s alright, just a few visits and then you cane back to rest."

    "Mm. I��m fine," Sun Chan chuckled.

    Just then, the door opened; someone came to buy fruits, and it was a familiar face �� Yang Yun. Behind him was a woman dressed in a military uniform, looking very heroic and spirited. There were many beautiful women, but ones as bold as this one were rare. Moreover, Yang Liu felt the woman seemed familiar in some ways, casting her multiple nces.

    The woman was also stunned when she saw Sun Chan. This girl...

    Sun Chan also found her familiar, blinking as she stared at Zhao Jieyun.

    Yang Yun red at Sun Chan, "What are you doing here? Get out at once! Annoying just like Su Miao!"

    Yang Liu frowned slightly, what��s with this person?

    Sun Chan said tly, "Buy something if you want; I haven��t gotten in your way."

    "A country bumpkin with quite an attitude! Get out now!"

    "This is my fruit stand; if you don��t like it, you can leave. I��m not going anywhere." Sun Chan opened the door, showing her the way out.

    Yang Liu was beside himself with anger, pointing at Sun Chan, "You��re actually kicking me out? Do you need a beating?"

    Zhao Jieyun frowned, "What are you saying? How can a girl talk so rudely?"

    "Mom! This woman is really bad..."

    "I think you��re the one without manners!" The woman apologized to Sun Chan, "My daughter is being childish, please forgive her. I��ve spoiled her too much."

    She couldn��t even make excuses about her daughter��s age, since Sun Chan clearly looked much younger.

    Sun Chanughed, "It��s nothing. If you want to buy something, please go ahead."

    Yang Yun pulled on her mother, "Who wants to buy from you? Dream on! Come, let��s go to another ce. We won��t buy from this bitch!"

    "Are you here to pick a fight today? I haven��t done anything to you, so why are you cursing me for no reason?" Sun Chan said calmly.

    "Don��t think you got away with itst time. It��s not over!"

    Sun Chan sneered, "I didn��t luckily escape anything; I hadn��t done anything wrong in the first ce. What do I need to escape from? Just because your parents are in the military doesn��t mean you can bully people at will, does it? If you run into another Su Miao, you might really end up in jail, right?"

    "You uncultured..."

    "You saying ��bitch�� and ��country bumpkin�� every other word, who��s the uncultured one here? I came from the countryside, but I haven��t wronged you, so why keep cursing me? Even if you have connections, the army won��t back you without principle;st time was proof, wasn��t it?" Sun Chan rarely spoke so aggressively, but she was unwilling to tolerate this girl��s behavior any longer.

    Yang Yun was fuming with embarrassment; because of Su Miao, her parents had repeatedly scolded her, and her allowance was gone. They were even taking her back to the provincial city supposedly to work as a temporary worker for dozens of bucks a month! How could she be happy?

    Now hearing Sun Chan use the name of that woman to mock her, she was overwhelmed with shame and anger, rushing over to hit her, but was stopped by Yang Liu.

    Yang Liu shouted, "What are you doing? If you��re not buying, why hit someone?"

    "I want to hit, what��s it to you? Get out of my way!" She forcefully shoved Yang Liu; if Sun Chan hadn��t stabilised her from behind, she might��ve crashed onto the small stove behind her.

    "Yang Yun!" Zhao Jieyun pulled her daughter back, giving her a few punches on the back.

    "Mom, why are you hitting me!"

    "You��re bing more and more outrageous! Who taught you to have such low manners!? You��re embarrassing me."

    "Mom..."

    "Shut up!" Zhao Jieyun scolded her daughter, then apologized to Sun Chan and Yang Liu, "I��m sorry, my daughter��s in a bad mood and just spouting nonsense. I��ll buy something next time, we��re leaving now." Zhao Jieyun felt humiliated and had no face to stay, dragging her daughter away briskly.

    No matter how Yang Yun struggled, she wasn��t listened to.

    Yang Yun could only follow her mother out with anger in her gut.

    Sun Chan saw Zhao Jieyun as reasonable and didn��t hold a grudge, just nodding.

    "Just you wait and see, this won��t end like this!" Yang Yun yelled out.

    "Yang Yun, if you don��t like us, then just don��te over. You don��t care for us here, and I don��t like you either, so why bother entangling yourself? I��m from the countryside, so what? I��m not stealing or robbing, so why do you need to bully me?" Sun Chan said righteously and intensely, "If youe here to cause trouble again, we��ll call the police! Then the shame will be yours and the Yang Family��s!"

    Yang Yun almost fainted from anger, but Zhao Jieyun forced and dragged her out.

    She felt humiliated and when they reached the street without anyone around, she pped her on the face fiercely.

    It was the first time Yang Yun was pped by her mother. Feeling both wronged and humiliated, tears welled up, "Mom! You��re hitting me over a country girl!"

    "It doesn��t matter whether she��s from the countryside or the city, she was right. If you don��t like it, don��t associate with them. Why trouble them? Don��t I know your character? Spoiled beyond reason, it��s my fault. I always thought you were still young. From now on, you��re not allowed to use the Yang Family��s name to bully people. You��re such a disappointment!"

    "Mom!" Yang Yun stomped anxiously.

    "Last time with Su Miao, you almost caused your father and me to divorce and take that woman in. Aren��t you listening? What do you want? You won��t be happy unless something bigger happens? Why did I raise a daughter like you! Ever since losing your younger sister, I��ve given all my love to you, hoping you��d grow up to seed, but look at you now... I��m such a failure!" Zhao Jieyun was also choked up.

    Seeing her mother like this, Yang Yun realized she struck a nerve rted to her mother��s heartache and could only approach her.

    "Mom, I��m sorry."

    But Zhao Jieyun ignored her, striding away unabashedly.

    Eventually, Yang Yun caught up with her mother. She didn��t care if her father got angry, but she knew if her mother got mad, she definitely wouldn��t let it go. Yang Yun��s future was uncertain, and if her mother didn��t care for her anymore, she��d definitely be in big trouble.

    Zhao Jieyun noticed her daughter trailing behind her in silence but had thoughts swirling in her head about that girl, reflecting, this girl really does resemble me when I was young.

    If the child I lost were alive, would she also be this age now?

 Chapter 241 Visiting the Sick

    <h4>Chapter 241: Chapter 241 Visiting the Sick</h4>

    At this thought, Zhao Jieyun��s heart suddenly lifted, as she stood still.

    Yang Yun almost bumped into her lower back: "Mom, what��s wrong?"

    Zhao Jieyun replied, "It��s nothing, I just remembered something. Let��s go. Didn��t you want to get some apples? Let��s buy them from another ce."

    She thought to herself, therade from back then should have brought the girl to Beijing; why did shee from the vige? But they look so much alike!

    Her heart was filled with doubt, and she missed several times when her daughter spoke to her.

    Yang Yun thought, Mom doesn��t know what she��s thinking. Damn Sun Chan, she��s really showing off, her temper is getting bigger and bigger, as if she��s something special. Hmph! I just can��t stand it!

    When the dayes for me to leave, I��ll deal with her properly once I know where she is.

    Sun Chan finished packing a few pretty apples and was about to leave.

    Yang Liu asked, "Who is that girl? So arrogant, seems quite bullying."

    "Don��t mind her. This girl relies on her family��s resources and doesn��t care about anyone. She��ll learn her lesson in the future."

    "But don��t you think that mother looks a bit like you?"

    Sun Chanughed, "I feel like I��ve seen her somewhere, but I can��t remember."

    "Hmm. Actually, you two don��t look the same, but there��s still a strange simrity, what could it be?"

    Sun Chan didn��t pay attention, busying herself with things, and thought about taking out some change to buy food for Wang Guihua.

    Yang Liu sent her off: "Come back early, okay? Sister Guihua will be here shortly, and we��ll have dinner together, maybe a hotpot?"

    Sun Chan nodded with a smile and chatted a bit, then carried the fruit to the hospital.

    Wang Guihua was lying there, looking pale, but seemed to be out of serious trouble.

    Sun Chan walked over and ced the fruit nearby, "How are you, Auntie? Are you feeling better?"

    In recent days, Wang Guihua calmed down a lot, feeling waves of mncholy, thinking that she had lived quite afortable life. Growing up in a privileged family, she was considered one of the elite. Her family had someone to help with housework, her rtionship with her husband, though not always harmonious, was respectful, with her in charge of big and small matters.

    Except for the inconsiderate Gu Junming; luckily, he rarely came home, and she was toozy to bother with his affairs. Who knew everything would change when her son insisted on marrying Yang Hongying �� not only did the son stop obeying, but the husband constantly lost his temper with her. Why is that? Getting older and being disliked like this?

    She looked at Sun Chan, thinking perhaps it��s because the eldest daughter-inw is unsatisfactory, and the second daughter-inw isn��t to her liking either, which must be why she��s agitated. This girl Sun Chan also had her own thoughts, even able to attract Gu Junming!

    But ultimately, she wasn��t her biological child and couldn��t be treated like Yang Hongying.

    Wang Guihua smiled, "Thank you for looking after me."

    Sun Chan replied, "Don��t mention it, Mom, it��s the least I could do. What do you want for lunch? I��ll fetch it for you."

    As she spoke, she picked up the fruit knife on the table and started peeling apples for Wang Guihua.

    Wang Guihua asked, "How��s Gu Junming? Is he busy? He should be on vacation now, right?"

    "Yeah, something came up, he��s busy with it."

    Wang Guihua thought, what��s the matter, he just doesn��t want to see me, really hypocritical.

    Regardless of what others do, once Wang Guihua got that knot in her heart, she couldn��t think they were acting out of goodwill. Fortunately, Sun Chan didn��t expect them to like her either, as long as they could get along smoothly.

    Sun Chan handed the apple to Wang Guihua, who only took a few bites before putting it aside.

    "Thank you. I��m really useless, just argued a bit with my son and daughter-inw, and ended up like this. As for Yang Hongying, how could she be so hurtful, even if it��s not her first marriage!"

    "Don��t take it to heart, Auntie."

    Sun Chan couldn��t support Wang Guihua in bad-mouthing Yang Hongying, naturally wouldn��t help Yang Hongying against Wang Guihua either. She wasn��t a smooth talker, so she just dryly said that.

    Wang Guihua became angrier, ring at Sun Chan while she lowered her head and dealt with the apple skin.

    "You tell me, how could a few words from me lead to threatened miscarriage? How fragile is that? Can��t I say a few words?"

    Sun Chan chuckled, "Auntie, your health matters more, don��t think about unpleasant things, and don��t worry Uncle. The doctor says you should be discharged soon; you must maintain emotional stability. If you be seriously ill, everyone will be worried."

    Wang Guihua looked at Sun Chan, this girl didn��t respond at all!

    "Should I get some hot water to help wipe you down?"

    Wang Guihua wanted to refuse, but she had been feeling very ufortable and hadn��t bathed. She really needed a wipe-down, especially given the growing heat.

    Seeing Wang Guihua didn��t refuse, Sun Chan took the basin and went out.

    She helped Wang Guihua wipe down a bit.

    After keepingpany for a short while, she left when the maid arrived.

    Returning home, she didn��t bother with much and first took a nap, exhausted.

    It wasn��t until the afternoon that she went to the hotel.

    Sure enough, she saw Guihua and Yang Liu preparing the hotpot ingredients.

    The pot held milky-white broth with top-quality ingredients, which Guihua got from the neighboring hotpot ce. Her good rapport got her whatever she asked for.

    She prepared lots of meat slices, all cut from meats she bought herself, cabbage, and a pile of potato skins.

    Seeing Sun Chan arrive, Guihua smiled, "Come on, it��s mealtime!"

    Sun Chan smiled and approached, "Smells great!"

    "Of course, it��s my favorite thing to make."

    Everyone washed their hands and ate; Guihua asked about the matters over there, and Sun Chan shared.

    Guihua said, "So the clothes over there are that popr? Then I��ll go buy some."

    "I��ll go too," Yang Liuughed, "Bring me along."

    "Sure! We��ll go together; Sun Chan, you don��t mind, do you?"

    Sun Chan quickly smiled, "What do I have to mind? But this business does depend on luck. If the clothes turn out unpopr, we��ll lose money."

    Savvy Guihuaughed, "Don��t worry, even if we lose money, it��s not your fault. But isn��t your Gu Junming back yet?"

    As she spoke, she picked some thin slices of beef and gave them to Sun Chan.

    Sun Chan furrowed her brows slightly and exined the situation.

    Guihua sneered, "These people are just bored. That Su Miao has high ideals, and Su Jinxiu isn��t a good person either. If she hadn��t threatened to ruin Su Miao��s reputationpletely, people wouldn��t act like that, right?"

    "Indeed. Each worse than the other," Yang Liu said.

    Sun Chan said, "No matter how much the adults fuss, I just hope it won��t affect the kids."

 Chapter 242 Eating Hot Pot

    <h4>Chapter 242: Chapter 242 Eating Hot Pot</h4>

    "There��s no way around it," Guihua said, "Gu Junming hasn��t sent any news yet, seemed like the child is gone. Could it be he��s sold?"

    Sun Chan tightened her grip on the chopsticks, really hoping nothing happened to that child.

    Just then, someone came in from outside, "Are you guys busy?"

    It was Yang Zhen, smiling as she came in carrying a bag.

    They all stood up together, "Why did youe?"

    "The unit gave out some shrimps, I don��t know how to cook them, so I brought them over."

    Guihua was delighted, "Oh dear, these are good stuff! Clean them up and put in the hotpot! Just what I��m craving. I remember there��s still some dried tofu outside, slice it in too!"

    "Got it," Yang Liu also stood up, "I��ll go across the street to buy some leafy greens. Anything else needed?"

    Yang Zhen hesitated for a moment but didn��t hold back, requested a few more vegetables, and Yang Liu went out to buy them.

    Everyone chatted andughed as they cleaned things up, cooked the shrimps, and the aroma was enticing.

    Just about to eat, someone else arrived. It was Yan Kai and arade, unfamiliar to Sun Chan, around twenty-five or six, and not bad-looking. He had a good rtionship with Gu Junming and had heard of Sun Chan, so he greeted her promptly.

    "This is my friend, Liu Jun. He��s going somewhere for business tomorrow, wants to stay overnight in X City. I thought since you run a hotel here, I��d bring him over. Don��t hold back, charge him more, it��s on public funds anyway!" Yan Kaiughed.

    The more familiar they got with Yan Kai, the more it��s known that he liked to joke. Everyoneughed along.

    "Wee, wee," Guihua smiled, "Perfect timing with the hotpot, join us for a meal, don��t be shy! Sun Chan, get a bottle of liquor!"

    Sun Chan sighed and stood up. Went upstairs and returned with two bottles of beer and one bottle of baijiu.

    Originally, only a few girls were eating, naturally not drinking, but now with the two men, drinks were necessary.

    The two men were not pretentious, sat down together, eating hotpot was lively with more people. Guihua was generous, plenty of ingredients, all kinds of delicious food for everyone, so everyone was quite happy eating.

    Sun Chan asked Yan Kai, "Any news from Gu Junming?"

    Yan Kai slightly frowned, "Well, he didn��t see Su Miao, waited with the railway police but ultimately didn��t see her. Now we��re thinking, maybe she didn��t get off the train, went somewhere else? I told him, search for a couple more days, if it doesn��t work out,e back. It��s not something he can handle alone, the higher-ups can��t keep giving him leave."

    Sun Chan bit her lip and said, "Zhao Yingjun hasn��t got any news either."

    Zhao Yingjun insisted on going to the unit, didn��t care what Su Jinxiu was up to, but the child was important. If he knew the child was gone, he wouldn��t be silent like this. Likely he��s avoiding Su Jinxiu causing a fuss, hiding away. Still doesn��t know the son is gone.

    Liu Jun said, "Su Jinxiu needs to report to the police, we��re just soldiers, can��t handle this matter indefinitely."

    "Indeed. Gu Junming only stepped in due to hometown connections. Now it��s not viable. Better have hime back, can��t dy work forever, and besides, Su Miao is quite bad, if Gu Junming doesn��te back..." Sun Chan was a bit worried, afraid Su Miao might want to harm people.

    Yan Kai said, "Don��t worry, Gu Junming is a soldier, an ordinary person cannot easily be his match. No matter how bad Su Miao is, can��tmit murder, everyone knows she left with the child, can��t escape sessfully."

    Sun Chan could only nod her head.

    They discussed other topics, Guihua noticed Liu Jun paying a lot of attention to Yang Liu. Both of them liked beef, not shrimp, ate lots of noodles, but seemed indifferent to cabbage, especiallytro, which they leftpletely untouched.

    So the two were picking their food, quietly talking about something.

    Sun Chan chuckled, Yang Zhen also found it amusing, smiling with pursed lips.

    Guihua nced at Yan Kai, "What��s this about, having yourrade flirt with my employee?"

    Yan Kai chuckled, "This guy��s twenty-five already, still no girlfriend. Hey, talking to you Liu Jun, anything to say!"

    Liu Jun was startled, looked up, "Why talk about me, you��re also single!"

    Yan Kai acknowledged with a grunt, didn��t say more, after all, thement wasn��t meant for him, just letting Yang Liu know.

    Yang Liu was a bit embarrassed, but she did like Liu Jun, mostly because they both loved the same foods. Really in sync.

    Liu Jun stayed at the hotel for a day, felt Yang Liu was more charming, worked efficiently, liked the same foods as him, not a pretentious girl. For a moment, he felt quite favorable. Before leaving, she asked for Yang Liu��s address.

    "I��ll write to you."

    Guihua said, "No need for letters, we have a phone here, give him a phone number. Don��t worry, I won��t eavesdrop!"

    Yang Liu��s face turned red, "Sister, why do you always like making fun of me!" She finished speaking and didn��t nce at Liu Jun, turned away angrily. Guihuaughed heartily, pulled Liu Jun over and gave him the phone number.

    Liu Jun chuckled, romance back then was just like that, if they liked each other, it could work out.

    Sun Chan was always worried about Gu Junming, only on the third day did she learn about him, Yan Kai said he didn��t find Su Miao, had toe back.

    "But can��te to see you, straight back to the unit."

    Sun Chan nodded understandingly, he was in charge, alreadyte a few days, wouldn��t be appropriate to visit her now.

    "He didn��t see Su Miao?"

    "Yes, everyone nearby was asked, didn��t see any young girl carrying a child, now there��s surveince set up, all watching Zhao Yingjun��s ce. If shees, she will definitely look for him."

    She nodded, feeling at ease now that she knew Gu Junming returned safely.

    She��s quite busy now, taking care of Wang Guihua in the morning, then going to see the fruit stall in the afternoon. During her absence, Yang Liu looked after the stall, earning one hundred and forty yuan, Sun Chan kept a hundred, gave forty to Yang Liu.

    Yang Liu quickly waved her hand, "No need for that! I��m not short on money. You keep it!"

    "You helped me look after the stall, supposed to give you some, take it. Asking for help without payment doesn��t seem right. If you don��t ept, I won��t dare ask you again."

    Yang Liu reluctantly epted after refusing a few times. She asked, "Going to see Wang Guihua again? Aren��t you tired?"

    "Yes. Thankfully, I don��t have to go every day, in the afternoon there��s a nanny shift change, otherwise I wouldn��t manage."

    Mostly not physical fatigue, but internally tired; Wang Guihua is infuriating with her words, frequently scolding Yang Hongying, Sun Chan felt like ignoring her, asionally taunts about her and Gu Junming, she pretends not to understand.

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 243: Asking for Trouble

    <h4>Chapter 243: Chapter 243: Asking for Trouble</h4>

    Originally, Wang Guihua was about to be discharged, but when Gu Zishan came to see her one day, they got into an argument because of Yang Hongying��s pregnancy. She kept chasing Gu Zishan, asking whether the baby was a boy or a girl.

    "Find someone to check. If it��s a girl, have her abort it! Now, with family nning in ce, our family is from the military, so a second child is impossible. Raise these two, and then have another er."

    Gu Zishan angrily replied, "What kind of mindset is this? Why keep a boy and abort a girl? You��re a girl yourself! If your parents thought like you, what would you do?"

    Wang Guihua was annoyed too, "I��m thinking about your family��s best interest. The child will bear the Gu surname. What kind of attitude is this!"

    "That��s just how I am! Let me tell you, Wang Guihua, stop meddling in Gu Juntao��s affairs from now on! You��re growing more muddled as you age!"

    "You��re the one who��s muddled..." She clutched her chest, her mind buzzing, and Gu Zishan was startled, quickly searching for help. Her condition red up again, dying her discharge by another half month.

    Sun Chan found outter and felt unhappy, but there wasn��t much she could do.

    Gu Zishan was also frightened and dared not visit again. During this period, Gu Juntao only came twice and was scolded away by Wang Guihua.

    "Seeing you, who forgets his mother after marrying a wife, annoys me! Get out!"

    Gu Juntao was also worried about his mother��s condition and dared not visit, only pleading with Sun Chan to take good care of her.

    Sun Chanughed, "Don��t worry, it��ll be fine."

    "I��ll properly thank youter. As you can see, my mother really is..." Gu Juntao sighed.

    This period has worn him down as well. His wife��s pregnancy is unstable, constantly showing bleeding symptoms. Yang Hongying was already timid, and with her mother-inw constantly crying and asking her to check the gender, Yang Hongying was under even more stress.

    Gu Juntao was almost afraid to sleep night after night, fearing that the baby would be lost one night, while his mother was still hospitalized. Whenever he visited, he would be scolded away. Originally a chubby figure, he had slimmed down to resemble a normal person, somewhat achieving weight loss.

    Sun Chanforted him, "Don��t worry, Aunt may say things, but she still cares about you in her heart."

    "I understand, sister-inw," Gu Juntao gave a bitter smile, "It��s precisely because I understand that I��m in such a dilemma."

    Why does his mother not like the woman he loves?

    Sun Chan couldn��t say much either, only advising him to let go, "In some time, she��ll be going home, and then you won��t need to worry, right? Your wife should be your primary concern now. I��ll help you take care of Mom. Dad also visits asionally. If you��re feeling troubled, just buy some good things for Mom, and give her proper attention when she��s discharged."

    "Alright. Thanks a lot. I��ll be leaving now." Gu Juntao didn��t bother with formalities, as he needed to work, and his wife was in such a condition that he couldn��t cook. Now, he was as busy as a cat on a hot tin roof.

    Wang Guihua had be much more fragile, feeling that her son was too unfilial and influenced by his wife. He used to be obedient, and after getting married, he turned like that! Yang Hongying truly was a woman like a demon!

    Sometimes her words were sarcastic, and at times she would give Sun Chan the cold shoulder, though Sun Chan didn��t mind.

    Finally, it was the day before her discharge, and Sun Chan unexpectedly ran into Bai Fann at the hospital.

    Bai Fann was wearing a white coat at the time, looking out of the window at the end of the corridor. Sun Chan felt a bit puzzled but didn��t think much about it.

    Bai Fann didn��t notice Sun Chan as she was quite anxious inside.

    She had just returned from Wang Hu and was very tense because her period hadn��te.

    She knew she must be pregnant, likely from one of the two men, given the situation that day. She just wanted to kill herself! How stupid could she have been to trust someone she met on the train and end up being taken advantage of, resulting in pregnancy with a scoundrel��s child? She didn��t even know who the father was! But she had checked, and if she miscarried, the chance of future pregnancy would be zero.

    She clenched her fists, thinking about Wang Hu.

    The Wang family��s situation was so good; they wouldn��t want a daughter-inw who couldn��t have children.

    She could only pin the child on Wang Hu. After all, she had shared a room with him on her return from Shenzhen. Just a few days off, he wouldn��t suspect. She knew she was being too much.

    Sun Chan was unaware of Bai Fann��s troubles, but she seemed much calmer than before.

    When Bai Fann approached, she didn��t have that confrontational re anymore, instead wearing a slightly awkward smile. This was rather surprising.

    Moreover, she greeted her proactively: "You��vee? Aunt��s almost recovered and can be discharged in the next few days."

    "I knew that. Thank you so much." Sun Chan nodded.

    "It��s nothing. After all, Aunt has been very kind to me over the years. You��ve worked hard too, haven��t you? Take care of your health; you look much thinner."

    Sun Chan smiled and nodded, "It��s nothing. Is there anything Aunt needs to pay attention to?" Seeing her smile, Sun Chan didn��t say anything unpleasant, though she felt puzzled, she chatted a bit with Bai Fann.

    Bai Fann smiled and said, "Not much. Just avoid greasy food, don��t go to ces with smoking. Luckily Aunt doesn��t drink."

    Sun Chan nodded, "Otherwise, quitting alcohol now would be difficult."

    After chatting a bit, Bai Fann took her leave.

    Sun Chan blinked, feeling puzzled.

    What��s going on here, how did Bai Fann suddenly be so pleasant?

    But she had no time to ask, so she went over and sat beside Wang Guihua.

    Wang Guihua nced at Sun Chan, "Did you see Bai Fann?"

    "Yeah, we exchanged a few words."

    "In terms of ethics, background, work, and learning evaluation, you��re not as good as Bai Fann. You really need to work hard. Gu Junming got into a military school with top grades and has a promising future. You��re an elementary dropout, and if you don��t work hard, he won��t want you. After all, it��s still two years away. Do you really think the marriage is certain? I doubt it."

    Sun Chan frowned slightly, not speaking. When did her marriage with Gu Junming be her concern? Besides, she had been preparing to study for the September exams, but she didn��t bother mentioning it to Wang Guihua.

    Wang Guihua herself didn��t understand why she disliked Sun Chan. How could a girl with nothing be so formidable? Though Gu Junming wasn��t her biological son, he was still part of the Gu Family. She was, nominally, the matriarch of the Gu Family. If people asked about the family��s daughter-inw, how should she respond?

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